bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic model based on disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs for predicting survival and therapeutic response in bladder cancer
Authors: Han Lirui , Yang Hankai , Jiang Xuan , Zhou Ziyu , Ge Chang , Yu Kairan , Li Guofang , Wang Wei , Liu Yubo
Published: December 2024

Background

With poor treatment outcomes and prognosis, bladder cancer remains a focus for clinical research in the precision oncology era. However, the potential of disulfidptosis, a novel cell death mechanism, and its related long non-coding RNAs to support selective cancer cell killing in this disease is still unclear.

Methods

We identified key disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs in bladder cancer, constructed a prognostic risk model with potential therapeutic targets, and confirmed the findings through quantitative PCR analysis.

Results

We identified five crucial lncRNAs (AC005840.4, AC010331.1, AL021707.6, MIR4435-2HG and ARHGAP5-AS1) and integrated them into a predictive model centered on disulfidptosis-associated lncRNAs. Reliability and validity tests demonstrated that the lncRNA prediction index associated with disulfidptosis effectively discerns patients’ prognosis outcomes. Additionally, high-risk patients exhibited elevated expression levels of genes involved in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, extracellular matrix organization, and immune escape mechanisms, which are associated with poor prognosis. Notably, high-risk patients demonstrated higher sensitivity to Sorafenib, Oxaliplatin and MK-2206, underscoring the promise of these lncRNAs as precise therapeutic targets in bladder cancer.

Conclusion

By revealing the predictive importance of disulfidptosis-associated lncRNAs in bladder cancer, our research offers new perspectives and pinpoints potential therapeutic targets in clinical environments.
Extracranial arteriovenous malformations: a 10-year experience at a German vascular anomaly center and evaluation of diagnostic imaging for endovascular therapy assessment
Authors: Werba Nadja , Ludwig Johannes , Weiss Christel , Struebing Felix , Schoenberg Stefan , Sadick Maliha
Published: December 2024

Background

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) account for <3% of vascular anomalies. This study aims to present the 10-year experience of a German vascular anomaly center (VAC) with AVMs and evaluate diagnostic imaging for treatment-relevant information for minimally invasive therapy planning.

Material and methods

A retrospective study including patients from the VAC database with AVMs was conducted. Clinical information from patients' records was evaluated. An additional image reading analysis of the available diagnostic imaging using a 4-point Likert scale, focusing on relevant points for minimally invasive treatment planning, was conducted in 13 patients who had all three magnetic resonance tomography (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and conventional angiography available.

Results

Between April 2014 and March 2024, 60 patients (60% female, 40% male; 12% Parkes Weber syndrome) with AVMs presented to the VAC. The median age was 36 years (range: 11–78 years). Referral diagnosis was correct in 73.3% of cases. The mean distance to the VAC was 102.5 km (±111.0). The most common locations involved the hand (32%), lower extremity (22%), and pelvis (22%). The most common symptoms were pain (81%), pulsation (64%), and local hyperthermia (62%). Necrosis was significantly more common when the AVM was located in the hand (p = 0.0129) and growth when located in the pelvis (p = 0.0037). Furthermore, cosmetic issues were significantly more frequent when the AVM was located in the head area (p = 0.0333). Most patients presented with Schobinger stage II (57%). Right heart strain was only documented in one case. A total of 47% had undergone invasive therapies before VAC admission. In 30% of cases, further minimally invasive or invasive therapy was required. In the diagnostic imaging evaluation, conventional angiography had the overall best ratings for image quality (median = 1.00; range: 1.00–2.00), NIDUS evaluation median = 1.00; range: 1.00–2.00), and therapy planning (median = 1.00; range: 1.00–1.33).

Conclusion

Our 10-year experience showed that in patients with AVMs, the correct diagnosis is often made before admission to a specialized VAC. Diagnostic imaging is essential for endovascular treatment planning, with conventional angiography showing superior utility in image quality, NIDUS evaluation, and therapy planning compared to other modalities.
Corneal stromal mapping characteristics in normal corneas using anterior segment SD-OCT
Authors: Abusamak Mohammad , Issa Sara Mazen , Alomari Amal F. , Alsalamat Husam A. , Haj Ali Nour S. , Izmegna Abdallah , Shawashreh Mais , Abu Samak Mahmoud , Abusamak Talal M.
Published: December 2024

This study investigated how normal corneal stromal profiles change with age, sex, and corrected intraocular pressure (IOP). A retrospective observational analytical study was conducted in Jordan, employing anterior segment spectral-domain optical coherence tomography AS-OCT, a measured corneal stromal thickness (CST) in 134 eyes across the central 6-mm corneal diameter. People between the ages of 18 and 79 were included, and the mean CST values were linked to age groups, IOP, and cis-gender populations, with the exclusion of certain eye conditions. The central stroma was thinnest at 484.6 (±32.6) μm, contrasting with the outer peripheral superior zone’s maximum thickness at 549.3 (±40.6) μm. A positive correlation between CST and the 30–49 age group was noted. In conclusion, this study highlights a centrifugal CST distribution, with the central stroma being the thinnest and the superior stroma being the thickest. AS SD-OCT, employing novel algorithms, proves vital in refractive surgery planning and corneal disease diagnosis. The research offers valuable insights into age, gender, and IOP interactions with corneal stromal characteristics, enhancing clinical strategies for corneal pathologies in the Jordanian population.
Recent trends in multiple metrics and multimodal analysis for neural activity and pupillometry
Authors: Nobukawa Sou , Shirama Aya , Takahashi Tetsuya , Toda Shigenobu
Published: December 2024

Recent studies focusing on neural activity captured by neuroimaging modalities have provided various metrics for elucidating the functional networks and dynamics of the entire brain. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can depict spatiotemporal functional neural networks and dynamic characteristics due to its excellent spatial resolution. However, its temporal resolution is limited. Neuroimaging modalities such as electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG), which have higher temporal resolutions, are utilized for multi-temporal scale and multi-frequency-band analyzes. With this advantage, numerous EEG/MEG-bases studies have revealed the frequency-band specific functional networks involving dynamic functional connectivity and multiple temporal-scale time-series patterns of neural activity. In addition to analyzing neural data, the examination of behavioral data can unveil additional aspects of brain activity through unimodal and multimodal data analyzes performed using appropriate integration techniques. Among the behavioral data assessments, pupillometry can provide comprehensive spatial-temporal-specific features of neural activity. In this perspective, we summarize the recent progress in the development of metrics for analyzing neural data obtained from neuroimaging modalities such as fMRI, EEG, and MEG, as well as behavioral data, with a special focus on pupillometry data. First, we review the typical metrics of neural activity, emphasizing functional connectivity, complexity, dynamic functional connectivity, and dynamic state transitions of whole-brain activity. Second, we examine the metrics related to the time-series data of pupillary diameters and discuss the possibility of multimodal metrics that combine neural and pupillometry data. Finally, we discuss future perspectives on these multiple and multimodal metrics.
Computer-aided endoscopic diagnostic system modified with hyperspectral imaging for the classification of esophageal neoplasms
Authors: Wang Yao-Kuang , Karmakar Riya , Mukundan Arvind , Men Ting-Chun , Tsao Yu-Ming , Lu Song-Cun , Wu I-Chen , Wang Hsiang-Chen
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The early detection of esophageal cancer is crucial to enhancing patient survival rates, and endoscopy remains the gold standard for identifying esophageal neoplasms. Despite this fact, accurately diagnosing superficial esophageal neoplasms poses a challenge, even for seasoned endoscopists. Recent advancements in computer-aided diagnostic systems, empowered by artificial intelligence (AI), have shown promising results in elevating the diagnostic precision for early-stage esophageal cancer.

Methods

In this study, we expanded upon traditional red–green–blue (RGB) imaging by integrating the YOLO neural network algorithm with hyperspectral imaging (HSI) to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of this innovative AI system for superficial esophageal neoplasms. A total of 1836 endoscopic images were utilized for model training, which included 858 white-light imaging (WLI) and 978 narrow-band imaging (NBI) samples. These images were categorized into three groups, namely, normal esophagus, esophageal squamous dysplasia, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Results

An additional set comprising 257 WLI and 267 NBI images served as the validation dataset to assess diagnostic accuracy. Within the RGB dataset, the diagnostic accuracies of the WLI and NBI systems for classifying images into normal, dysplasia, and SCC categories were 0.83 and 0.82, respectively. Conversely, the HSI dataset yielded higher diagnostic accuracies for the WLI and NBI systems, with scores of 0.90 and 0.89, respectively.

Conclusion

The HSI dataset outperformed the RGB dataset, demonstrating an overall diagnostic accuracy improvement of 8%. Our findings underscored the advantageous impact of incorporating the HSI dataset in model training. Furthermore, the application of HSI in AI-driven image recognition algorithms significantly enhanced the diagnostic accuracy for early esophageal cancer.
The use of nutrigenomics and nutritional biomarkers with standard care of long-term recurrent metastatic rectal cancer: a case report
Authors: Brinkman Maree T. , Crofts Sam , Green Hayden
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Distant metastases following standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) are typically associated with poor disease-free survival. We report on a 52-year-old Australian male of Dutch ancestry with no family history of colorectal cancer or significant medical history who experienced bleeding per rectum for several months prior to a colonoscopy in July 2010. He was subsequently diagnosed with Stage IIb LARC.

Case presentation

Despite treatment with curative intent, a distant recurrence to his left lung was detected in May 2012, upstaging him to Stage IV rectal cancer. He had repeated distant metastatic recurrences over the next 8 years, and treatment included multiple surgeries, chemotherapies, radiation treatments, a “watch and wait” period of 20 months, and personalised dietary management. Genetic and nutrigenomic testing identified that the case had KRAS and MTHFR mutations. As part of his dietary management, the case also had his levels of folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D regularly monitored because of his genetic predisposition and history of deficiency for these key nutrients. Apart from changes in his CEA levels, sudden increases in the patient’s folate levels, inconsistent with dietary exposures preceded detection of each new distant recurrence, with significant decreases in the levels at the next follow-up measurement.

Conclusion

A multimodal approach to this patient’s management appeared to contribute to his long-term survival of nearly 10 years from the initial diagnosis. Multidisciplinary management, including the use of additional biomarkers, may enhance survival rates in other similar cases with advanced disease resistant to differing therapies, and with potentially poor prognosis.
Case report: A rare case of renal epithelioid angiosarcoma
Authors: Zhai Jiancheng , Che Bangwei , Shen Jun , Cen Kangming , Zhang Yusui , Li Tenxian , Tang Dongxin , Tang Kaifa
Published: December 2024

Primary renal epithelioid angiosarcoma (EAS) is extremely rare and carries a poor prognosis. Herein, we present a case of renal EAS in an 81-year-old male patient who complained of hematuria for 1 year. A computerized tomography (CT) scan revealed an occupying lesion at the upper pole of the left kidney, with scattered calcifications, along with retroperitoneal lymph node metastasis and possible lung metastasis. A laparoscopic palliative nephrectomy was performed, and postoperative pathology confirmed a malignant tumor with necrosis in the left kidney. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) revealed positive expression for CD31, CD10, and vimentin, consistent with the diagnosis of EAS. Although EAS is a rare, aggressive, and often misdiagnosed condition, IHC can help confirm its diagnosis, and in our case, the scattered calcifications observed on CT imaging might be helpful in its differential diagnosis.
Sorafenib combined with tarexib for first-line treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma and its predictive role and correlation with PD-L1 CTCs
Authors: Xu Lin , Che Xu
Published: December 2024

Background

This study aims to evaluate the safety efficacy of combining the PD-1 antibody Tirelizumab with Sorafenib in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Additionally we are committed to investigating the relationship between circulating tumor cell (CTC) counts/PD-L1 expression the prognosis of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

This study included 32 patients with unresectable primary liver cancer who received treatment with Tislelizumab in combination with Sorafenib. Tislelizumab was administered via intravenous injection at a dose of 200 mg every 3 weeks, while Sorafenib was given orally at a dose of 400 mg twice daily. Patients were evaluated every 3 cycles (9 weeks) to assess the safety and efficacy of the treatment regimen. Prior to enrollment, all patients underwent CTC counting and assessment of PD-L1 expression in circulating tumor cells. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate (ORR), evaluated by the investigator according to the RECIST v1.1 criteria. Secondary endpoints aimed to assess the relationship between circulating tumor cell (CTC) counts or programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and the prognosis of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

Results

As of November 2022, a total of 32 patients have been enrolled in the study and received combination treatment. Among the 32 patients, 31 (96.8%) tested positive for circulating tumor cells (CTCs), with counts ranging from 1 to 45 and a median of 7 (3, 11). PD-L1-positive CTCs were detected in 25 patients (78.1%). All 32 patients were followed up for 2 to 14 months, with a median follow-up time of 6 months. Correlation analysis revealed that distant metastasis, vascular invasion, and the presence of more than 5 CTCs were significantly associated with PD-L1-positive CTCs. The one-year overall survival rates for patients with PD-L1-positive CTCs and those with PD-L1-negative CTCs were 78.5% vs 64.3% (P = 0.309). Additionally, the one-year overall survival rates for the group with rising CTC counts compared to the group with stable or declining counts were 34.3% vs 90% (P = 0.063).

Conclusion

The combination of Tislelizumab and Sorafenib demonstrates promising antitumor activity in the first-line treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma, with a relatively high objective response rate (ORR) and acceptable safety profile. Baseline CTC PD-L1 positivity can serve as a predictive marker for selecting hepatocellular carcinoma patients for PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy, and dynamic measurement of CTC changes can be used to monitor treatment efficacy.
Rare cases of a second recurrence of nephroblastoma with MLLT1 gene mutation: case report and literature review
Authors: Dai Yiling , Chen Xin , He Guoqian , Gao Ju , Guo Xia
Published: December 2024

Nephroblastoma or Wilms tumor is the most common tumor of the urinary system in childhood. The survival rate can reach more than 90% after multidisciplinary treatment, but there is still a certain recurrence rate. In recent years, domestic and foreign scholars have analyzed the gene mutations related to the recurrence of nephroblastoma from the genetics or epigenetics perspective. However, few reports on the relationship between MLLT1 and the pathogenesis have been reported; patients with MLLT1 gene mutations are often associated with poor prognosis. In this case, we report the recurrence of nephroblastoma with MLLT1 gene mutation and review relevant literature. The studies on molecular genetic mechanism will provide a theoretical basis for early warning, optimize individualized treatment plan, and are important for improving prognosis.
Understanding the PULSAR effect in combined radiotherapy and immunotherapy using transformer-based attention mechanisms
Authors: Peng Hao , Moore Casey , Saha Debabrata , Jiang Steve , Timmerman Robert
Published: December 2024

PULSAR (personalized, ultra-fractionated stereotactic adaptive radiotherapy) is the adaptation of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy towards personalized cancer management. It has potential to harness the synergy between radiation therapy and immunotherapy, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors to amplify the anti-tumor immune response. For the first time, we applied a transformer-based attention mechanism to investigate the underlying interactions between combined PULSAR and PD-L1 blockade immunotherapy, based on the preliminary experimental results of a murine cancer model (Lewis Lung Carcinoma, LLC). The radiation and administration of α-PD-L1 were viewed as two external stimulation signals occurring in a temporal sequence. Our study demonstrates the utility of a transformer model in 1) predicting tumor changes in response to specific treatment schemes, and 2) generating self-attention and cross-attention maps. The cross-attention maps serve as a biological representation of the semantic similarity between source and target sentences in neural translation, offering insights into the causal relationships of the PULSAR effect. Our model offers a unique perspective with the potential to enhance the understanding of the temporal dependencies of the PULSAR effect on time, dose, and T cell dynamics. In a broader context, our proposed framework offers the potential to explore varying intervals and doses for subsequent treatments while monitoring the biological parameters impacted by these perturbations. This approach can lead to more personalized and rational radiation or drug interactions.
Nephrocalcinosis tendency does not worsen under burosumab treatment for X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets: a multicenter pediatric study
Authors: Levi Shelly , Landau Daniel , Davidovits Miriam , Shapira Rootman Mika , Brener Avivit , Gal Shoshana , Borovitz Yael , Goldberg Ori , Bello Rachel , Cleper Roxana , Lebenthal Yael , Levy-Shraga Yael , Tiosano Dov , Chezana Adi , Regev Ravit , Zeitlin Leonid
Published: December 2024

Background

X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLH) is associated with uninhibited FGF23 activity, which leads to phosphaturia, hypophosphatemia and depressed active vitamin D (1,25OH2D) levels. Conventional treatment with phosphate supplements and vitamin D analogs may lead to hypercalciuria (HC), nephrocalcinosis (NC) and hyperparathyroidism. We investigated the effects of burosumab treatment, an anti-FGF23 monoclonal antibody recently approved for XLH, on these complications.

Methods

This retrospective study included children with XLH who were treated with burosumab for at least one year at one of three referral centers. Clinical and biochemical potential treatment outcomes were regularly followed, including multiple urine calcium measurements and NC severity score (0 = no NC, 3 = worse NC).

Results

Twenty-six (13 male) children aged 7.6 ± 3.9 years were followed for 27.5 ± 9.6 months. Mean serum phosphate levels rapidly increased from 2.67 ± 0.61 at baseline to 3.57 ± 0.53 mg/dL after 3 months (p < 0.001) and remained stable thereafter. Concomitant decreases were observed in phosphaturia, serum alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone. HC (U-Ca/Cr > 0.2 mg/mg) was detected in 2/26 (7.7%) patients before burosumab initiation, resolved in one and persisted, albeit improved, in the second. Two patients were newly diagnosed with HC, 15 and 3 months after therapy, which persisted in one of them despite dose reduction attempts. Seven patients had NC at baseline (mean score: 1.8 ± 0.34), but none showed deterioration or developed new NC.

Conclusion

In children with XLH treated with burosumab, HC was an infrequent side effect and preexisting NC did not worsen.
Therapeutic potential of Xihuang Pill in colorectal cancer: Metabolomic and microbiome-driven approaches
Authors: Zhang Chen , Sui Conglu , Ma Xiaona , Ma Chongyang , Sun Xinhui , Zhai Changming , Cao Peng , Zhang Yue , Cheng Jinjun , Li Tong , Sai Jiayang
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The Xihuang Pill (XHP), a venerated traditional Chinese medicine, has demonstrated significant anti-cancer capabilities. Despite its proven efficacy, the scarcity of comprehensive pharmacological studies limits the widespread application of XHP. This research endeavor seeks to demystify the therapeutic underpinnings of XHP, particularly in the realm of colorectal cancer (CRC) therapy.

Methods

In this study, mice harboring CT26 tumors were divided into four groups, each administered with either XHP monotherapy, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), or a combination of both. The tumor growth trajectory was closely monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of these anti-neoplastic interventions. Advanced techniques, including 16S-rDNA gene sequencing and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), were harnessed to scrutinize the gut microbiota and serum metabolite profiles. Immunohistochemical assays were employed to gauge the expression levels of CD4, CD8, and Foxp3, thereby providing insights into the dynamics of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes within the tumor microenvironment.

Results

Our findings indicate that XHP effectively suppresses the initiation and progression of colorectal tumors. The combinatorial therapy of XHP with 5-FU exhibited an enhanced inhibitory effect on tumor growth. Metabolic profiling revealed that XHP induced notable metabolic shifts, particularly impacting pathways such as steroid hormone synthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism, purine biosynthesis, and renin secretion. Notably, 17α-ethinyl estradiol and α-ergocryptine were identified as serum metabolites with the most substantial increase following XHP administration. Analysis of the gut microbiome suggested that XHP promoted the expansion of specific bacterial taxa, including Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Clostridiales, Desulfovibrionaceae, and Anaerotignum_sp., while suppressing the proliferation of others such as Ligilactobacilus, Lactobacillus_taiwanensis, and Candidatus_saccharimonas. Immunohistochemical staining indicated an upregulation of CD4 and CD8 post-XHP treatment.

Conclusion

This study delineates a potential mechanism by which XHP inhibits CRC tumorigenesis through modulating the gut microbiota, serum metabolites, and reshaping the tumor immune microenvironment in a murine CRC model. These findings contribute to a more profound understanding and potentially broaden the clinical utility of XHP in oncology.
Advances in the study of key cells and signaling pathways in renal fibrosis and the interventional role of Chinese medicines
Authors: Liang Lijuan , Mi Youjun , Zhou Shihan , Yang Aojian , Wei Chaoyu , Dai Enlai
Published: December 2024

Renal fibrosis (RF) is a pathological process characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), which triggers a repair cascade in response to stimuli and pathogenic factors, leading to the activation of molecular signaling pathways involved in fibrosis. This article discusses the key cells, molecules, and signaling pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of RF, with a particular focus on tubular epithelial cells (TECs), cellular senescence, ferroptosis, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β)/Smad signaling. These factors drive the core and regulatory pathways that significantly influence RF. A comprehensive understanding of their roles is essential. Through a literature review, we explore recent advancements in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) aimed at reducing RF and inhibiting chronic kidney disease (CKD). We summarize, analyze, and elaborate on the important role of Chinese herbs in RF, aiming to provide new directions for their application in prevention and treatment, as well as scientific guidance for clinical practices.
Safety and effectiveness of Salvia miltiorrhiza and ligustrazine injection for acute cerebral infarction in Chinese population: a PRISMA-compliant meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Zhuoya , Zhang Hu , Zhao Fen , Li Ke , Dong Nanhai , Sang Wenwen
Published: December 2024

Background

Salvia miltiorrhiza and ligustrazine injection (SML) is a type of traditional Chinese medicine injection, which has been considered a promising adjunctive therapy treatment for acute cerebral infarction (ACI). Although there have been positive reports on the treatment of SML, there is still controversy over its exact efficacy and safety in ACI patients. In this study, a systematic review was conducted on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of SML for the treatment of ACI to evaluate its clinical efficacy and safety.

Method

From the establishment of the database until May 2023, all randomized controlled trials related to SML and ACI were collected from the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, Medline, PubMed, CSJD, Wanfang database, CBM and CNKI. This systematic review and meta-analysis were strictly conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement. The reported outcomes including overall response (ORR), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), hemorrheology indexes, activity of daily living (ADL) and adverse events were in detail investigated.

Results

An analysis was conducted on the relevant data of 3869 ACI patients from 38 trials. The results indicated that the combination of conventional treatment and SML can significantly improve the ORR of patients (RR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.20–1.27, P < 0.00001), neurological status (NIHSS, MD = −4.35, 95% CI = −5.15–3.54, P < 0.00001) and ADL (Barthel Index score, MD = 10.27, 95% CI = 7.75–12.79, P < 0.00001) compared with regular treatment alone. After the combined therapy, the hemorheology of ACI patients also significantly improved (P < 0.05). There is no significant difference in the frequency of adverse events between the two groups (RR = 1.49, 95% CI = 0.91–2.46, P = 0.11).

Conclusion

The evidence from the meta-analysis suggested that the combination of conventional therapy and SML is safer and more effective than conventional therapy alone in treating ACI. However, due to the limitations of this analysis, such as regional bias and publication bias, the above conclusions need to be further verified by prospective, high-quality and multicenter clinical trials.
Nitazoxanide mitigates methotrexate hepatotoxicity in rats: role in inhibiting apoptosis and regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Mahmoud Nevertyty Mohamed , Elshazly Shimaa M. , El-shaarawy Fatma , Zaitone Sawsan A. , Aldahish Afaf A. , Ahmed Gehan A. , Fawzy Manal S. , Aloyouni Sheka Yagub , Abed Sally Y. , Saeedi Tahani , El-Sayed Shaimaa S.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Hepatotoxicity is a severe outcome of methotrexate (MTX) therapy, limiting its clinical use and contributing to its related morbidity and mortality. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of nitazoxanide (NTZ), an antiprotozoal drug, against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity and whether endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-modulation underlies the expected beneficial effects of NTZ.

Methods

Thirty-six rats were allocated to six groups, one control group and five MTX groups, where induction of hepatotoxicity was achieved via injecting MTX (20 mg/kg). Groups were assigned as MTX-vehicle, NTZ-100, and NTZ-200 groups (at 100 and 200 mg/kg/day, gavage, respectively), N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) group (500 mg/kg), and 4-phenyl butyric acid (4-PBA) group (150 mg/kg, i.p). Liver function enzymes in serum, hepatic oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokines, apoptosis, and ER-stress biomarkers were assessed. A histopathological examination was performed.

Results

Treatment with NTZ lessened the serum liver enzymes, reduced malondialdehyde (lipid peroxidation product), enhanced antioxidant capacity, attenuated proinflammatory cytokines, and suppressed apoptosis. The protective effect of NTZ was dose-dependent, and the findings observed with the high-dose NTZ were similar to those obtained with the ER-stress inhibitor (4-PBA).

Conclusion

NTZ exerted a hepatoprotective effect in MTX-challenged rats that is mediated via modulation of ER stress and inhibiting apoptosis.
Research on the recommendation strategy of dual-channel manufacturers for hybrid e-commerce platforms
Authors: Wang Yang
Published: December 2024

Introduction

In the context of hybrid e-commerce platforms with reselling mode and agency mode, this study considers the issue of channel management by manufacturers through recommendation strategies.

Methods

For three dual-channel structures composed of e-commerce platforms, manufacturers, and third-party retailers, game models were constructed for manufacturer’s non-recommendation, differentiated recommendation, and indiscriminate recommendation scenarios to investigate the optimal recommendation strategy for manufacturers.

Conclusion

(1) For different dual-channel structures, compared to scenarios without recommendations, it is not always profitable for manufacturers to adopt a recommendation strategy as recommended parties may not necessarily gain higher profits from recommendations. (2) The optimal recommendation strategy for manufacturers is influenced by channel structure, commission rates, and relative scale in the recommended market. Recommending direct sales channels is the preferred choice for manufacturers with a higher relative scale in the recommended market prompting them to recommend all channels to consumers. (3) Numerical simulations reveal that retail prices, total market demand, and supply chain profits are positively correlated with relative scale within the recommended market. Additionally, any recommendation strategy can increase demand for recommended parties as well as overall supply chain profit levels.
Action recognition in rehabilitation: combining 3D convolution and LSTM with spatiotemporal attention
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Shiyu , Sun Chang , Li Xingjiang , Xiao Zhangbo
Published: December 2024

This study addresses the limitations of traditional sports rehabilitation, emphasizing the need for improved accuracy and response speed in real-time action detection and recognition in complex rehabilitation scenarios. We propose the STA-C3DL model, a deep learning framework that integrates 3D Convolutional Neural Networks (C3D), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, and spatiotemporal attention mechanisms to capture nuanced action dynamics more precisely. Experimental results on multiple datasets, including NTU RGB + D, Smarthome Rehabilitation, UCF101, and HMDB51, show that the STA-C3DL model significantly outperforms existing methods, achieving up to 96.42% accuracy and an F1 score of 95.83% on UCF101, with robust performance across other datasets. The model demonstrates particular strength in handling real-time feedback requirements, highlighting its practical application in enhancing rehabilitation processes. This work provides a powerful, accurate tool for action recognition, advancing the application of deep learning in rehabilitation therapy and offering valuable support to therapists and researchers. Future research will focus on expanding the model’s adaptability to unconventional and extreme actions, as well as its integration into a wider range of rehabilitation settings to further support individualized patient recovery.
Vermicompost application improves leaf physiological activity, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, and grain yield of fragrant rice through efficient nitrogen assimilation under Cd stress
Authors: Iqbal Anas , Chen Xiaoyuan , Khan Rayyan , Zaman Maid , Khan Aamir Hamid , Kiedrzyński Marcin , Ebaid Mohamed , Alrefaei Abdulwahed Fahad , Lamlom Sobhi F. , Tang Xiangru , Zeeshan Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Cadmium (Cd) pollution in arable soils and its accumulation in rice plants have become a global concern because of their harmful effects on crop yield and human health. The in-situ stabilization method which involves the application of organic amendments such as vermicompost (VC), is frequently utilized for the remediation of Cd-contaminated soils. This study investigated the effects of VC on the soil chemical properties and the physio-biochemical functions of fragrant rice, as well as nitrogen (N) metabolism and assimilatory enzyme activities, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) content in rice grains, and the grain yields of fragrant rice cultivars, i.e., Xiangyaxiangzhan (XGZ) and.Meixiangzhan-2 (MXZ-2) under Cd stress condition. Four doses of VC (.VC1 = 0, VC2 = 3 t. ha-1, VC3 = 4 t ha-1, and VC4 = 6 t ha-1) and two levels of Cd (0 and 25 mg Cd kg-1) were used in this study. Our results showed that VC supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) improved soil characteristics, including soil organic carbon, available N, total N, phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Furthermore, VC enhanced plant physiological and biochemical attributes in fragrant rice, such as net photosynthetic rate (Pn), nitrate reductase (NR), nitrite reductase (NiR), glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamate oxoglutarate aminotransferase (GOGAT) enzyme activities, protein contents, amino acid, and 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) contents under Cd stress condition. Specifically, the VC-amended treatment, Cd2 + VC3, led to an 86.75% increase in Pn and 2AP, and a 60.05% and 77.55% increase in grain yield for MXZ-2 and XGZ cultivars, respectively, compared to Cd-only treated plants (Cd2 + VC1). In addition, VC application significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the Cd uptake and accumulation in rice plants. The correlation analysis indicated that leaf physiological activity and biochemical traits are strongly correlated with soil qualitative traits, suggesting that improved soil health leads to enhanced leaf physiological activity, N metabolism, grain 2AP content, and grain yields. Among the treatments, Cd2 + VC3 showed the best performance in terms of soil fertility and rice quality and production. Consequently, our study indicates that using VC in soils may benefit rice growers by improving soil fertility and supporting sustainable rice productivity and quality in soils contaminated with Cd.
Prediction of protein interactions between pine and pine wood nematode using deep learning and multi-dimensional feature fusion
Authors: Wang Liuyan , Li Rongguang , Guan Xuemei , Yan Shanchun
Published: December 2024

Pine Wilt Disease (PWD) is a devastating forest disease that has a serious impact on ecological balance ecological. Since the identification of plant-pathogen protein interactions (PPIs) is a critical step in understanding the pathogenic system of the pine wilt disease, this study proposes a Multi-feature Fusion Graph Attention Convolution (MFGAC-PPI) for predicting plant-pathogen PPIs based on deep learning. Compared with methods based on single-feature information, MFGAC-PPI obtains more 3D characterization information by utilizing AlphaFold and combining protein sequence features to extract multi-dimensional features via Transform with improved GCN. The performance of MFGAC-PPI was compared with the current representative methods of sequence-based, structure-based and hybrid characterization, demonstrating its superiority across all metrics. The experiments showed that learning multi-dimensional feature information effectively improved the ability of MFGAC-PPI in plant and pathogen PPI prediction tasks. Meanwhile, a pine wilt disease PPI network consisting of 2,688 interacting protein pairs was constructed based on MFGAC-PPI, which made it possible to systematically discover new disease resistance genes in pine trees and promoted the understanding of plant-pathogen interactions.
The interactive effects between far-red light and temperature on lettuce growth and morphology diminish at high light intensity
Authors: Jeong Sang Jun , Zhang Qianwen , Niu Genhua , Zhen Shuyang
Published: December 2024

Phytochromes (PHYs) play a dual role in sensing light spectral quality and temperature. PHYs can interconvert between the active Pfr form and inactive Pr form upon absorption of red (R) and far-red (FR) light (Photoconversion). In addition, active Pfr can be converted to inactive Pr in a temperature-dependent manner (Thermal Reversion). Recent studies have shown that FR light and temperature can interactively affect plant growth and morphology through co-regulating phytochrome activities. These studies were primarily conducted under relatively low light intensities. As light intensity increases, the impact of thermal reversion on phytochrome dynamics decreases. However, the light intensity dependency of the interactive effects between FR light and temperature on plant growth and morphology has not been characterized. In this study, lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) ‘Rex’ was grown under two total photon flux densities (TPFD; 400-800 nm) (150 and 300 μmol m-2 s-1) x three temperatures (20, 24, and 28°C) x two light spectra (0 and 20% of FR light in TPFD). Our results showed that the effects of FR light on leaf, stem, and root elongation, leaf number, and leaf expansion were dependent on temperature at lower TPFD. However, the magnitude of the interactive effects between FR light and temperature on plant morphology decreased at higher TPFD. Particularly, at a lower TPFD, FR light stimulated leaf expansion and canopy photon capture only under a cooler temperature of 20°C. However, at a higher TPFD, FR light consistently increased total leaf area across all three temperatures. Plant biomass was more strongly correlated with the total number of photons intercepted by the leaves than with the photosynthetic activities of individual leaves. FR light decreased the contents of chlorophylls, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolics, as well as the total antioxidant capacity. In contrast, warmer temperatures and high light intensity increased the values of these parameters. We concluded that the interactive effects between FR light and temperature on plant growth and morphology diminished as total light intensity increased. Additionally, the combination of high light intensity, warm temperature, and FR light resulted in the highest crop yield and antioxidant capacity in lettuce.
Language switching is modulated by emotion priming: evidence from behavioral and event-related potentials study
Authors: Wang Yun , Liu Xinfang , Liu Dianzhi , Zhu Chuanlin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Bilinguals often switch between different languages to effectively communicate their ideas. The variation in the increase in reaction times and error rates is termed as the language switch cost. Generally, bilingual language-switching costs demonstrate asymmetry, with a greater cost associated with transitioning from the weaker L2 to the dominant L1 than in the reverse scenario. Recent studies have demonstrated that language switching can be modulated under certain conditions. However, the effect of emotion on language-switching performance is unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of emotions on bilingual language switching and how this impact manifests across different time windows.

Methods

This study explored the influence of emotion on language switching between Chinese (L1) and English (L2) using a dual task involving emotion priming and word-picture matching, with concurrent measurement of event-related potentials.

Results

The behavioral results indicated that a happy mood improved the accuracy and efficiency of L1 switching, while a fearful mood enhanced the efficiency of L2 switching. Electrophysiological data revealed significant interactions among emotion, language, and task in the P1, N2, and N400 stages. Specifically, a happy mood was associated with an increased P1 amplitude during L1 switching, larger N2 amplitudes during L1 repetition, L1 switching, and L2 repetition, as well as greater N400 amplitudes during L1 repetition, L1 switching, and L2 repetition, along with a larger N600 during L2 repetition. Conversely, a fearful mood exhibited a significantly larger N400 during L2 switching and a larger N600 during L2 switching.

Discussion

The study findings suggest that positive emotions were beneficial for L1 switching in the early stages of visual attention allocation, conflict processing, and lexical-semantic processing. In contrast, negative emotions exhibited a more significant advantage for L2 switching in lexical-semantic processing and deeper levels of semantic processing. This study provides the first electrophysiological evidence for the impact of emotion priming on language-switching performance.
Emotional intelligence and the dark triad: a latent profile analysis to investigate the Jekyll and Hyde of the emotionally intelligent manager
Authors: Haag Christophe , Poirier Clément , Bellinghausen Lisa
Published: December 2024

Managers sometimes have a bad reputation as they are often perceived as more manipulative than other employees. This study focuses on the Dark Triad (DT)—comprising psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism—and its connection with managers’ “Ability” Emotional Intelligence (AEI). The link between DT (measured through the Dirty Dozen) and managers’ AEI (measured through QEPro, an AEI performance test) was examined through a Latent Profile Analysis (LPA). We identified two AEI latent profiles within a heterogeneous population of 231 French managers. Our results show that managers with the FEP (Full Emotional Processing) profile are less Machiavellian (relative to the MEP -Minimal Emotion Processing- profile). Our results show that identifying AEI profiles may be a practical way to prevent toxic Management.
The association between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and health-related quality of life in Chinese adolescents: the mediating roles of emotional intelligence and perceived stress
Authors: Li Qianyuan , Li Li , Li Chuchu , Wang Huilin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Chinese adolescents are facing tremendous academic pressure and challenges brought about by changes in the social environment, which pose a serious threat to their health-related quality of life (HRQOL). This cross-sectional survey uses convenience and snowball sampling to explore the relationship between adolescents’ HRQOL and their participation in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).

Methods

This study subjects include 440 adolescents aged 12 to 18, from four youth training centers and three schools in the central regions of Hunan, Hubei, and Henan provinces, chosen as representative samples for this study. We used AMOS v.26 to construct a structural equation model for data analysis and hypothesis testing.

Results

The results indicated that active participation in MVPA helps reduce adolescents’ perceived stress and enhances their emotional intelligence and HRQOL levels. Specifically, MVPA weakens adolescents’ perceived stress through the mediating role of emotional intelligence (coefficient = −0.148, p < 0.001), and perceived stress also mediates the relationship between emotional intelligence and HRQOL (coefficient = 0.165, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the positive impact of MVPA on HRQOL is mediated by emotional intelligence and perceived stress (coefficient = 0.363, p < 0.001). The explanatory power of this study is R2 = 0.50.

Conclusion

The study results indicate that MVPA has a positive impact on the HRQOL levels of Chinese adolescents. Physical activity, especially moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise, should be considered a strategic approach to maintaining HRQOL among adolescents. Society, schools, and families should create an environment conducive to physical exercise to support adolescents in engaging in physical activities and developing a healthy lifestyle.
Racial disparities and socioeconomic factors associated with post-acute rehabilitation facility utilization among Nevadans with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders and extremity fractures: insights of age-friendly and dementia-friendly state planning in U.S.
Authors: Oh Sung Soo , Yoo Ji Won , Chaudhry Stefan , Jeong Connor , Bae Deanna , Mohanadasan Sumegha , Frimer Leora , Kim Yonsu , Shen Jay J.
Published: December 2024

Background

Falls and extremity fractures often occur in people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (ADRD). In post-fracture care, these patients are cared for either at rehabilitation facilities or their homes. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic limited the utilization of rehabilitation facilities. In areas with provider shortages, this trend poses a risk of disability and caregiver burdens, particularly in racial minorities who under-utilize rehabilitation facilities.

Objective

To assess racial disparities in post-acute care (PAC) at rehabilitation facilities among people living with ADRD and extremity fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We summarized the PAC locations by (1) rehabilitation facilities (skilled nursing facilities and inpatient rehabilitation facilities) and (2) homes (homes with self-care and homes with services) for each study year. We observed the yearly percentage trends in PAC at rehabilitation facilities over the total post-acute discharge period. We assessed demographics (age, sex, and race), clinical comorbidities (fracture sites), utilization factors (pay source and hospital location), and COVID-19 pandemic status (pre−/post-pandemic years). We used multivariate logistic regression to estimate the association between these factors and PAC in the rehabilitation facilities.

Results

The proportion of individuals receiving PAC declined in rehabilitation facilities, whereas the proportion of individuals receiving PAC at home with services continuously increased. Being Hispanic, presence of cerebrovascular disorder (CVD), use of Medicaid services, and the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with lower probabilities of utilizing rehabilitation facilities.

Conclusion

Among the individuals with ADRD and extremity fractures, the proportion of those who underutilized rehabilitation facilities was higher in Hispanics compared with other races. Caregiving for Hispanics, presence of CVD, and use of Medicaid services were associated with the risk of disability and caregiver burden, due to shifting trends from rehabilitation facilities to homes with services. Geriatric workforce education should be prioritized to enhance the competencies of healthcare providers serving these individuals to relieve caregiver burdens in areas with provider shortage.