bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose-response relationship between Life's Essential 8 score and COPD risk: the NHANES cohort study 2007–2018
Authors: Huang Qian , Yuan Quan , Li Wenqiang , He Xiaoyu , He Qian , Deng Zhiping
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to discuss the dose-response relationship between the Life's Essential 8 (LE8) score and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

We screened data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database for the years 2007–2018. Logistics regression analysis and subgroup analysis were used to explore the relationship between cardiovascular health (CVH) and COPD based on the LE8 score. Additionally, restricted cubic spline (RCS) plots were drawn to visually display the dose-response relationship.

Results

A total of 12,517 participants were included, of which 835 had COPD. After multivariable adjustment, the LE8 score was found to be linearly and inversely associated with the risk of developing COPD. A similar relationship was observed in the scores for health behavior factors, whereas the relationship was weaker for health factors. The RCS plots visually demonstrated the aforementioned dose-response relationship. Moreover, subgroup analyses showed that this relationship remained robust across different groups.

Conclusion

LE8 scores are inversely and linearly associated with the risk of developing COPD. Higher LE8 scores can reduce the risk of developing COPD in individuals over 40 years old, especially concerning health behavior factors.
Comparison of lignin degradation and flavor compound formation in roasted tobacco by two Bacillus subtilis strains
Authors: Wang Junmin , Long Teng , Jiang Zhenkun , Mu Wenjun , Su Mingliang , Ni Li , Ji Shunhua , Wang Yuqing , Zhou Kangxi , Zhan Renfeng , Nie Lixuan , Li Jingjing , Hu Xingchuan , He Wei , Zhang Wen
Published: January 2025

Two strains of Bacillus subtilis designated YY-10 and BY-2, were isolated from the surface of tobacco and found to be capable of significant lignin degradation. The predominant lignin-degrading enzymes produced by these strains were lignin peroxidase (LiP) and manganese peroxidase (MnP), respectively. A notable distinction was observed in the organoleptic evaluation and volatile flavor compounds, as determined by sensory evaluation and GC–MS analysis. The content of volatile flavor compounds, such as geranylacetone, meglumine trienone B, and meglumine trienone C, was found to be significantly increased in roasted tobacco treated with YY-10. This treatment has been shown to reduce the astringent flavor of the roasted tobacco and improve the aroma, which in turn could improve the quality of the roasted tobacco. Conversely, the quality and aroma levels of the roasted tobacco treated with the crude enzyme solution of the BY-2 strain were reduced. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the expression of genes related to amino acid metabolism, genetic material biosynthesis, and protein synthesis was up-regulated in the YY-10 strain compared with the BY-2 strain, which promoted the biosynthesis of LiP. This study provides a preliminary elucidation of the potential mechanism by which YY-10 enhances the quality of tobacco leaves through lignin-degrading enzyme production, thus establishing a research foundation for the subsequent treatment of waste tobacco raw materials and industrial applications.
Pseudomonas cold shock proteins suppress bacterial effector translocation in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Cong Shen , Li Jun-Zhou , Zhang Mei-Ran , Wei Hai-Lei , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Plants detect the invasion of microbial pathogens through pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Cold shock proteins (CSPs) are a class of PAMPs specifically recognized by Solanales plants. While peptide inoculation studies have revealed the effects of CSPs, their in vivo roles remain poorly understood.

Methods

A model system involving the interactions between Pseudomonas fluorescens and P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000 with Nicotiana benthamiana has been widely used to investigate the molecular mechanism of plant-microbe interactions. Here, we employed this model system to explore the in vivo roles of CSPs in modulating plant immunity by multiple genetic approaches.

Results

Our findings revealed that three highly-conserved CSPs were identified in Pseudomonas strains. Transient expression of these CSPs neither induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production nor suppressed the hypersensitive response (HR) in N. benthamiana, however, it restricted bacterial effector translocation. Genetic analysis revealed that these CSPs did not contribute to the ROS burst or HR inhibition in vivo but were functionally redundant in suppressing effector translocation in a flagellin (FliC)-independent manner. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the suppression of effector translocation mediated by CSPs was less pronounced compared to that triggered by FliC. Additionally, inoculation with csp15 and csp22 epitopes triggered the pattern-triggered immunity-associated suppression of effector translocations.

Discussion

This study revealed the redundant roles of CSPs in suppressing bacterial effector translocation in vivo, providing deep insights into the PTI elicited by cytoplasmic bacterial proteins.
Elevated expression of ANTXR1 gene in tumors is a poor prognostic biomarker for patients with bladder cancer
Authors: Franco L. S. , Arunachalam S. , Chauhan A. , Kareff S. A. , Hallenbeck P. L.
Published: January 2025

The TEM8 protein coded by the ANTXR1 gene represents an emerging biomarker in solid tumors. In addition to the various roles TEM8 plays in oncogenesis, including angiogenesis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and cell migration, it has also been shown that the overexpression of the ANTXR1 gene in solid tumors correlates with poor prognostic indicators in several solid tumor histologies. As such, TEM8 has been identified as the target of novel oncologic therapies. It is especially attractive given its selective expression on the surface of solid tumor cells and associated stromal cells, such as cancer stem cells, invasive cancer cells, and immune cells, such as macrophages, angiogenic endothelial cells, pericytes, and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Furthermore, TEM8 plays this unique role as a mostly non-mutated gene in solid cancers. Here, we demonstrate that elevated expression of ANTXR1 in bladder cancer showed a statistical difference not only in overall survival (OS) but in progression-free survival (PFS), confirming the prognostic biomarker power of ANTXR1 expression.
Global and national public awareness and interest in glomerular diseases from 2004 to 2024
Authors: Balakrishnan Suryanarayanan , Thongprayoon Charat , Craici Iasmina M. , Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Miao Jing
Published: January 2025

Background

Glomerular diseases significantly impact global health. This study investigated public interest in five common glomerular diseases.

Methods

Google Trends™ were used to analyze search activity from January 2004 to December 2024 for IgA nephropathy (IgAN), membranous glomerulonephritis (MN), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), lupus nephritis (LN), and diabetic nephropathy (DN). Data were retrieved both globally and in English-speaking countries, including the United States. Monthly and yearly relative search activity were assessed and compared.

Results

Globally, IgAN had the highest average relative search activity, followed by DN, FSGS, LN, and MN. Both IgAN and FSGS exhibited declining trends, while LN showed an upward pattern. MN and DN experienced a modest decline before 2016, preceded by a slight increase. Among English-speaking countries, search interest was predominantly concentrated in five countries, primarily including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, with the United States consistently ranking as the leading country. For IgAN, LN, and MN, the trends observed in the United States appeared to align with global data. In contrast, search interest for FSGS exceeded global levels, while interest in DN was slightly lower than global activity. In the United States, IgAN, FSGS, and LN were most prominent in North Dakota, Massachusetts, and Delaware, respectively, while DN and MN saw peak activity in West Virginia.

Conclusion

Public engagement with glomerular diseases has not uniformly grown, at least in English-speaking countries, emphasizing the need for enhanced awareness efforts. Future analysis should prioritize search terms in the predominant language of each country.
Late-onset first epileptic seizure and cerebral small vessel disease: role of juxtacortical white matter lesions
Authors: Nasca Adrian , Sokolovič Leo , Koprda Oliver , Haage Patrick , Schmidt Thorsten , Kukolja Juraj
Published: January 2025

Objective

The cause of late-onset first epileptic seizures (LOFES) in older age is often not readily evident. In absence of probable causes, it has been suggested that cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), which is common with increasing age, may be crucial. We aimed to further investigate the impact of white matter lesion (WML) burden and distribution pattern on LOFES.

Methods

We retrospectively compared structural MRI of LOFES patients (n = 39) aged 60 years or older to controls with a transient ischemic attack (TIA, n = 38) and to patient controls (n = 35). WML segmentation was performed on FLAIR images using the SPM based automated lesion prediction algorithm of the LST toolbox and careful manual adjustment. Further, a dichotomization of WML was achieved by use of the BIANCA masking function. A voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis was additionally performed on T1 weighted sequences using the automated SPM12 based CAT12 software.

Results

Comparing intrapersonal volume ratios adjusted for the effects of gender and age, we found that the WML distribution was shifted to the juxtacortical compartment in LOFES patients. Among several influencing variables a path analysis could additionally show that this juxtacortical weighting of WML was a significant predictor for LOFES (β = 0.509, p < 0.001). With regard to total WML volume, LOFES and TIA patients did not differ significantly. Compared to TIA group, LOFES patients gray matter volume was regionally decreased in the right pre- and postcentral gyrus.

Significance

By using algorithm-based automated lesion segmentation software tools and VBM analysis we could highlight that a juxtacortical weighting of WML distribution and regionally decreased gray matter volume distinguished LOFES from TIA and PC groups in our sample.
Beta-hydroxy-beta-methyl butyrate supplementation in critically ill patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ren Yu , Gao Ya-Bei , Yu Da-Xing , Huang Hui-Bin
Published: January 2025

Background

Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) is beneficial for restoring muscle mass. However, the evidence supporting its use in critically ill patients remains unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of HMB in this population to ascertain its effects.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and the Cochrane database for articles focusing on adult patients receiving HMB compared to controls. The primary outcome was mortality. To explore potential heterogeneity, we assessed study quality and performed subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and quality of evidence.

Results

Nine randomized controlled trials were included. There were some differences in the study design, HMB protocols, and muscle measurements among these trials. Overall, there were no significant differences in mortality between the HMB and the control groups (risk ratio = 0.96; 95% CI, 0.44–2.08; P = 0.92). This finding was confirmed by the subgroup and sensitivity analyzes. Patients in the HMB group had similar durations of MV [mean difference (MD), –0.40; 95% CI, –0.91 to 0.12; P = 0.13], ICU stay (MD, –0.61 days; 95% CI, –3.59 to 2.38; P = 0.69), and hospital stay (MD, 1.52 days; 95% CI, –1.18 to 4.22; P = 0.27). In addition, HMB did not affect changes in body weight (P = 0.53), body mass index (P = 0.56), or quadriceps thickness (P = 0.74). The outcomes of changes in skeletal muscle area (P = 0.95) and muscle loss (P = 0.16) were similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) did not improve the mortality or other clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. This may be because of the different HMB strategies used in the included trials. Our findings provide insights into future research designs that explore the clinical efficacy of HMB in this patient population.
Association of dietary quality and mortality in the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and advanced fibrosis populations: NHANES 2005–2018
Authors: Huang Xingyong , Zhang Xiaoyue , Hao Xuanyu , Wang Tingting , Wu Peng , Shen Lufan , Yang Yuanyuan , Wan Wenyu , Zhang Kai
Published: January 2025

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as a significant global health concern, with advanced fibrosis increasing mortality risks. Despite the abundance of dietary guidelines for managing NAFLD, the precise impact of diet quality on mortality among individuals with advanced fibrosis remains elusive. This study aims to explore the influence of five dietary quality indexes on mortality among NAFLD patients and advanced fibrosis patients.

Methods

This study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2005 to 2018 to assess dietary quality based on the Alternate Mediterranean Diet (aMED), Healthy Eating Index-2020 (HEI-2020), Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH), Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), and Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII). Weighted Cox proportional hazard regression models along with restricted cubic splines and subgroup analyses were employed in this study.

Results

The analysis encompassed 3,634 NAFLD patients. After a median follow-up of 89 months, it was found that higher scores on the aMED (HR 0.814, 95% CI 0.681–0.972), HEI-2020 (HR 0.984, 95% CI 0.972–0.997), DASH (HR 0.930, 95% CI 0.883–0.979), and AHEI (HR 0.980, 95% CI 0.966–0.995) were associated with lower mortality risks, while DII scores (HR 1.280, 95% CI 1.098–1.493) indicated an increased risk of mortality. Additionally, a nonlinear relationship was identified solely between AHEI scores and all-cause mortality in NAFLD patients. Notably, among patients with advanced fibrosis, HEI-2020 as a categorical variable (T3: HR 0.519, 95% CI 0.280–0.964), DASH as a continuous variable (continuous: HR 0.921, 95% CI 0.849–0.999), AHEI (continuous: HR 0.971, 95% CI 0.945–0.997; T2: HR 0.545, 95% CI 0.310–0.960; T3: HR 0.444, 95% CI 0.245–0.804), and DII (continuous: HR 1.311, 95% CI 1.121–1.534; T3: HR 2.772, 95% CI 1.477–5.202) exhibited significant associations with all-cause mortality. Subgroup analyses revealed an interaction between AHEI scores and sex among NAFLD patients, where higher AHEI scores correlated with lower all-cause mortality in females, but no such association was observed in males. For other dietary quality, subgroup analyses indicated that their relationships with mortality were robust.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that a high-quality diet could potentially mitigate mortality risk in both NAFLD and advanced fibrosis patients.
Ketogenic diet and β-hydroxybutyrate in osteoporosis: current progress and controversy
Authors: Luo Changfang , Dai Zhuojun , He Wanhong , He Yanqiu , Yang Ping , Huang Mengting , Li Junle , Xu Yong , Huang Wei
Published: January 2025

Diet has been proven to have significant impacts on the pathogenesis and treatment of osteoporosis. This review attempts to elucidate the current progress and controversy surrounding the ketogenic diet (KD) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in osteoporosis and offers a novel perspective on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. The ketogenic diet has been broadly used in the treatment of epilepsy, diabetes, obesity, and certain neoplasms by triggering ketone bodies, mainly BHB. However, in most osteoporosis-related clinical and preclinical studies, the ketogenic diet has demonstrated the detrimental effects of inhibiting bone accumulation and damaging bone microarchitecture. In contrast, BHB is thought to ameliorate osteoporosis by promoting osteoblastogenesis and inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. The main purpose of this review is to summarize the current research progress and hope that more basic and clinical experiments will focus on the similarities and differences between ketogenic diet (KD) and BHB in osteoporosis.
Impact of social determinants and medical mistrust on parent-child HPV vaccination in economically disadvantaged communities: implications for cancer prevention
Authors: Sleiman Marcelo M. , Yockel Mary Rose , Liu Mingqian , Wendolowski Joanne , Adams-Campbell Lucile L. , Dash Chiranjeev , Carter-Bawa Lisa , Aragones Abraham , Arumani Sahana , Tercyak Kenneth P.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and intentions, their correlates, and barriers among age-eligible parents and their children living in very economically disadvantaged communities were assessed.

Methods

Parents (N=198; 45% Black, 42% Latine, 57% educated <=high school [HS], 74% income <$60k annually) with children ages 10-17 from Washington, DC and Hackensack, NJ were intercepted at community events and surveyed.

Results

Among age-eligible parents, 20% were vaccinated against HPV. Comparing vaccinated to unvaccinated parents, those who were non-white (OR=5.5, 95% CI=3.5, 9.4, p<0.001) and with unvaccinated children (OR=8.9, 95% CI=3.7, 23.3, p<0.001) were less likely to be vaccinated themselves. Among children, 37% were vaccinated. Unvaccinated children were more likely to have parents who were non-white (OR=2.7, 95% CI=2.6, 2.8, p<.01), with a <=HS education (OR=3.0, 95% CI=1.52, 6.25, p<.01), and were unvaccinated themselves (OR=10.2, 95% CI=4.01, 28.61, p<.001). Nearly two-thirds (63%) of parents with unvaccinated children expressed an intention to vaccinate within the next year: 48% confirmed receiving advice from a healthcare provider to do so. Common HPV vaccine barriers included lack of information (35%), safety concerns (16%), and perceptions of sexual inactivity (13%). An adjusted model revealed an interaction between parent education and medical mistrust (B=.35, SE=.13, 95% CI=0.09, 0.61, p<.01). For parents with <=HS education, when levels of provider trust were strong, they were more open to vaccinating their children.

Conclusions

HPV vaccine prevalence was low among parents and children living in disadvantaged communities. Comprehensive education and intervention to build trust are warranted to prevent the spread of HPV-linked cancers and reduce cancer disparities.
A comparative analysis and survival analysis of open versus minimally invasive radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy for pancreatic cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Yating , Xue Fei
Published: January 2025

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a major public health concern, ranking as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. Traditional surgical approaches often yield suboptimal outcomes, highlighting the need for innovative surgical strategies. Radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (RAMPS) has demonstrated improvements in surgical visualization and oncological outcomes. Recently, laparoscopic RAMPS (L-RAMPS) has been introduced as a minimally invasive alternative.

Objectives

This meta-analysis aims to compare the safety and efficacy of open RAMPS (O-RAMPS) versus L-RAMPS, focusing on operative outcomes, minimally invasive outcomes, intra-abdominal outcomes, overall postoperative outcomes, and oncologic outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included prospective or retrospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials comparing L-RAMPS with O-RAMPS. Data were extracted from EMBASE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library databases through September 16, 2023. The ROBINS-I tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Statistical analyses included odds ratios (OR), risk differences (RD), mean differences (MD), and survival analyses.

Results

Eight studies involving 588 patients were included. O-RAMPS was associated with longer operative times (MD = 39.39 minutes, 95% CI = 22.93 to 55.84) and greater blood loss (MD = -231.84 mL, 95% CI = -312.00 to -151.69). No significant differences were observed in blood transfusion rates, pancreatic fistula rates, delayed gastric emptying, or length of hospital stay. L-RAMPS demonstrated a shorter time to oral feeding (MD = -0.79 days, 95% CI = -1.35 to -0.22). Survival analysis suggested a potentially improved long-term prognosis for L-RAMPS.

Conclusion

L-RAMPS offers advantages over O-RAMPS in terms of reduced blood loss, faster time to oral feeding, and potentially better long-term prognosis. Further research is warranted, particularly regarding the learning curve of L-RAMPS and its broader applicability.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42024498383.
Ferroptosis in thyroid cancer: mechanisms, current status, and treatment
Authors: Tian Wenzhi , Su Xi , Hu Chenchen , Chen Dong , Li Peng
Published: January 2025

Thyroid cancer (TC) represents the most prevalent malignancy within the endocrine system. In recent years, there has been a marked global increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer, garnering substantial scientific interest. Comprehensive investigations into the pathogenesis of TC have identified a significant association with ferroptosis, a newly characterized form of cell death mediated by iron ions. Distinct from apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy, ferroptosis is characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides and reactive oxygen species, culminating in cellular damage and death.Recent research has elucidated a connection between ferroptosis and the initiation, progression, and treatment of thyroid cancer. These findings underscore the significance of ferroptosis in thyroid cancer and offer valuable insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies and precise predictive markers. The unique mechanisms of ferroptosis present opportunities for targeting treatment-resistant thyroid cancers. Consequently, the regulation of ferroptosis may emerge as a novel therapeutic target, potentially addressing the limitations of current treatments. Moreover, elucidating the molecular mechanisms underpinning ferroptosis in thyroid cancer may facilitate the identification of novel biomarkers for early detection and prognostication. This review endeavors to synthesize the extant knowledge regarding the role of ferroptosis in thyroid cancer, examine potential therapeutic implications, and propose future research trajectories to enhance the understanding and clinical application of ferroptosis.
Pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma with progression disease after second - line therapy: a case report
Authors: Guo Ya , Zhang Bin , Zhang Heng , Gao Yunbin , Zhao Haibo , Jiang Pei , Yu Qing-Qing
Published: January 2025

Pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma (PEAC, also known as Enteric-type adenocarcinoma of the lung, lung - ETAC) is a rare subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has the same morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics as colorectal adenocarcinoma and requires gastroenteroscopy to rule out lesions of enteric origin. As a rare solid tumor in lung cancer, PEAC has unique clinical outcome, imaging, pathological and molecular characteristics, and poor prognosis. However, the molecular characteristics and therapeutic biomarkers of PEAC are unclear, and its treatment remains challenging. In this case, we describe a 61-year-old man diagnosed with advanced primary PEAC with KRAS mutation. In the case of unknown PD-L1 expression status, first-line treatment was given to lung adenocarcinoma regimen (immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy), progression occurred after 2 cycles, and progression-free survival (PFS) was 1.5 months. Then the second-line XELOX regimen (oxaliplatin combined with capecitabine) was adjusted. The lesions were significantly reduced after 2 and 4 cycles, and the disease progressed again after 6 cycles, with a PFS of 4.5 months. Anlotinib targeted drugs were selected for third-line treatment, but considering the overall poor condition of the patient, the patient himself refused further treatment. Finally, after discharge, the patient went to the local hospital for nutritional support and symptomatic treatment. The results suggest that standard first-line therapies (immunotherapy plus chemotherapy) and colorectal cancer regimens may have a relatively limited impact on survival in KRAS-driver positive advanced PEAC.
The effect of baseline versus early glucocorticoid use on immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy in patients with advanced NSCLC
Authors: Wang Yifan , Zhou Jianying , Peng Simin , Cui Zhao , Wang Weiqi , Zeng Wenqin , Qiu Tingting , Liu Zhentian
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the specific effects of glucocorticoids (GC) on the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and whether this effect is influenced by the timing and dosage of GC administration. Changes in the neutrophil percentage and the helper/suppressor T lymphocyte ratio [NEUT %/(CD4+/CD8+)] during GC administration were monitored.

Methods

The clinical results of 130 patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with ICIs were analyzed and compared with those of patients who did not use GC. Cox proportional hazards regression model and Logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the factors affecting ORR and PFS, and t test was used to analyze the changes of NEUT %/(CD4 +/CD8 +) during GC use.

Results

Multivariate Logistic analysis showed that GC use was associated with a higher ORR in 130 patients treated with ICIs [HR = 3.07,95% CI (1.31-7.21), P = 0.010]. Univariate Cox analysis showed that GC use was not significantly correlated with PFS [HR = 0.926,95% CI (0.603-1.420), P = 0.710]. Patients who used GC during the baseline period of ICIs treatment had a higher ORR than those who used GC at the early stage of ICIs treatment (65.4% vs 30.8%, p = 0.024). Multivariate Cox analysis showed that GC use had longer PFS [HR = 0.37,95% CI (0.17-0.78), p = 0.009]. The timing of GC use was different, and there was a difference in NEUT %/(CD4 +/CD8 +) levels before and after treatment. There was no significant difference in ORR and PFS between GC duration and dose.

Conclusion

The use of GC helps to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. In particular, GC use during the baseline period leads to higher ORR and PFS, regardless of the dose or duration of GC use. The levels of NEUT %/(CD4+/CD8+) varied depending on the timing of GC administration.
Prevalence and determinants of post-neonatal mortality in East Africa: a multilevel analysis of the recent demographic and health survey
Authors: Zegeye Alebachew Ferede , Asmamaw Desale Bihonegn , Negash Wubshet D. , Belachew Tadele Biresaw , Fentie Elsa Awoke , Kidie Atitegeb Abera , Baykeda Tsegaw Amare , Fetene Samrawit Mihret , Addis Banchlay , Maru Wubante Sisay , Endawkie Abel , Tamir Tadesse Tarik
Published: January 2025

Background

One of the most common measures of society's health is mortality among neonates. Developing and developed countries still differ significantly in neonatal mortality rates. While there are about 18 neonatal deaths worldwide for every 1,000 live births during the first month of life, less is known about neonatal mortality in developing countries, especially in East Africa. Understanding the extent of mortality during the post-neonatal period and its determinants is crucial for developing appropriate policies and strategies that could help solve the issue. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of post-neonatal mortality in East African countries and the factors that are associated with it.

Methods

Secondary data analysis was conducted using data from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys, which included 11 East African countries between 2014 and 2022. A weighted sample of 225,635 live births had been used in the study. STATA/SE 14 was used for data analysis. The multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model was applied to determine the factors associated with post-neonatal mortality. In the multilevel logistic regression model, significant factors were deemed to be associated with post-neonatal mortality at p-values <0.05. The data were interpreted using the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and confidence interval (CI). The best-fit model has been found to be the one with the lowest deviance and highest logliklihood ratio.

Results

In East Africa, post-neonatal mortality was found to be 15 per 1,000 live births. Pregnancy type (AOR = 3.09, 95% CI: 2.30, 4.13), birth weight (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.25, 2.01), maternal age (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.32, 1.90), maternal education (AOR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.14, 2.92), tetanus shots prior to delivery (AOR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.06–1.42), birth order (AOR = 5.68, 95% CI: 4.48, 7.24), those born in Uganda (AOR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.73), and Burundi (AOR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.11, 1.98) had the highest odds of post-neonatal death.

Conclusion

According to this study, post-neonatal mortality is higher in developing countries, particularly in East Africa. It was discovered that factors at the individual and community levels associated with post-neonatal mortality. Consequently, focus should be paid to babies born to mothers in the lowest age group, those born of multiple pregnancies, without formal educations, who did not receive tetanus shots prior to birth, and who were born in the first birth order.
Comparative transcriptomic and phenotypic analysis of monoclonal and polyclonal Populus deltoides genotypes
Authors: Gosselaar Macy , Arick Mark A. , Hsu Chuan-Yu , Renninger Heidi , Siegert Courtney M. , Shafqat Waqar , Peterson Daniel G. , Himes Austin
Published: January 2025

Populus species are highly valued for bioenergy and bioproducts due to their rapid growth and productivity. Polyclonal plantings, or mixtures of Populus clones, have shown the potential to enhance resource utilization and productivity, likely due to phenotypic differences arising from niche differentiation. In this study, we investigated gene expression and productivity in monoclonal and polyclonal stands of P. deltoides. Phenotypic results showed that polyclonal plots exhibited higher leaf area index (LAI; p < 0.01, 2.96 ± 0.057 m2) and total biomass (p < 0.01, 2.74 ± 0.06) compared to monoclonal plots, indicating superior productivity. RNA sequencing revealed upregulation of key genes such as exocyst subunit exo70 family protein H7 (EXO70H7), NDH-dependent cyclic electron flow 5 (NDF5), and expansin-like A3 (EXLA3). We also observed enrichment in phenylalanine metabolism and other secondary metabolic pathways in clone S7C8. Phenotypic results, upregulated genes and enriched biological pathways identified in this study may explain the enhanced productivity, increased nitrate content, and expanded canopy in polyclonal plantings. Overall, this study provides a foundation for future research to enhance forest productivity by linking molecular mechanisms to practical applications in field plantings.
Splicing and expression dynamics of SR genes in hot pepper (Capsicum annuum): regulatory diversity and conservation under stress
Authors: Li Lin , Zhang Yueqin , Zhang Rui , Cen Xiangtao , Huang Yongxiang , Hu Hanqiao , Jiang Xingyu , Ling Yu
Published: January 2025

In this study, we identified and characterized 23 genes encoding serine/arginine-rich (SR) protein in hot pepper (Capsicum annuum), named CaSR here. These CaSR proteins are grouped into seven subfamilies. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a high degree of similarity between CaSRs and their homologous proteins in other plants. Promoter regions of SR proteins are enriched with elements relating to light response, stress, hormone signaling, and plant growth. Notably, transcription levels of several proteins, including CaSR33, CaSR34, and CaSR34a, were upregulated by salt, drought, and cold stresses, suggesting potential roles of these proteins in stress tolerance. We also observed an increase of CaSR transcript population resulting from alternative splicing (AS) regulation, mainly intron retention. AS patterns of CaSR genes varied among tissues. Higher AS intensity was found in the RS subfamily, while some genes in the RSZ subfamily showed no AS regulation under the conditions used here. Interestingly, a cross-species comparative study with Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) showed that many AS events impact the region which codes the RNA recognition motif (RRM) domain of the protein, indicating a conserved regulatory mechanism of SR proteins in plants. Our findings reveal the functional diversity and evolutionary conservation of SR proteins in hot pepper and highlight AS as a mechanism enhancing plant adaptability, providing insights for future stress-resistant crop development.
Intraspecific variation for heat stress tolerance in wild emmer-derived durum wheat populations
Authors: Balla Mohammed Yousif , Kamal Nasrein Mohamed , Tahir Izzat Sidahmed Ali , Gorafi Yasir Serag Alnor , Abdalla Modather Galal Abdeldaim , Tsujimoto Hisashi
Published: January 2025

High temperatures pose a major threat to wheat productivity and necessitate the development of new cultivars that are resilient to future heat stress. Wild emmer (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. dicoccoides), which is a direct progenitor of domesticated durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum) and contributor to the A and B genome of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), offers a valuable genetic reservoir for developing climate-resilient wheat. However, the morphology of wild emmer is different from that of durum and bread wheat, in particular, the spikelets are fragile and naturally fall off, making it difficult to study its agronomic traits. In this study, we created nine backcrossed families between the popular durum wheat cultivar ‘Miki 3’ and nine wild emmer accessions collected from northern and southern lineages of this species. The objective was to investigate the intraspecific genetic variation in wild emmer and identify traits associated with heat stress tolerance. We evaluated these nine families under multi-environments ranging from optimum to severe heat stress conditions in Japan and Sudan and measured important agronomic traits. The result showed that two families, developed from accessions of both northern and southern lineages exhibited high harvest index, elevated chlorophyll content, and reduced canopy temperature under heat stress. Additionally, one family developed from an accession of the southern lineage displayed high biomass, harvest index, and seed number under heat-stress conditions. These three families produced high heat tolerant lines with unique introgressed segments from their wild emmer parents on chromosomes 1A, 2B, 5B, 6B, and 7B, which may be linked to heat resilience. From these results, we were able to identify significant intraspecific diversity between the wild emmer accessions in terms of heat stress tolerance. However, no significant tendency between the northern and southern lineages of wild emmer has been identified. These findings emphasize the need to harness not only the interspecific but also the intraspecific genetic variation of wild emmer diversity to uncover valuable genes for heat stress tolerance in wheat breeding programs.
The temporal and embodied structure of the mineness sphere: some phenomenological ideas to frame mental health
Authors: Sánchez Camilo Sánchez
Published: January 2025

This article highlights the import of two phenomenological variables: the implicit temporal and bodily movement experience. Then, I propose some ideas to build a framework for mental health. The proposal begins by critically considering Stanghellini’s conception of alterity, as he defines its relation through two conditions: reflexive self-awareness and “spoken word” dialogue. This conception prioritizes mental health work in the reflexive realm. In contrast, my conception prioritizes the pre-reflective realm of experience, in general, and focuses on the mineness sphere, in particular. This conception leads to consider two of Husserl’s phenomenological findings: first, awareness has a temporal structure, and second, temporal experience is constituted from the flow of consciousness. These findings are considered in terms of their constitutive import to subjectivity through the two variables. Next, I propose a general idea for a phenomenological framework of mental health work, integrating the two phenomenological variables with the concepts of alterity and ipseity. The psychotherapeutic approach known as “rhythmic relating” is considered to illustrate the key clinical role these two variables play, supporting the general aim. The conclusion presents the consequences of the proposal.
The influence of different negative feedback on the decay of self-deception
Authors: Liu Juan , Ding Wenjun , Deng Liying , Tan Min , Guan Peipei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Though some studies have found the positive influences of moderate self-deception on individuals and society, there are many that have shown its negative influences on individuals and society. Long-term self-deception will have negative influences which could cause high individual losses and even social disasters. Therefore, it is essential to abate the decay of self-deception to avoid its negative influences and help individuals to better monitor themselves.

Methods

In this research, we explored the impact of various types of negative feedback on the decay of self-deception using a forward-looking paradigm with three conditions: no-feedback, ambiguous negative feedback, and real negative feedback. The experiment under each condition was tested four times. The negative feedback was provided after Tests 2 and 3.

Results

The results indicated that, in Test 1 of both Experiments 1 and 2, the answer group demonstrated notably stronger positive beliefs and a higher propensity for cheating compared to the control group. Additionally, self-deception was more pronounced under the no-feedback than under the negative feedback in the subsequent three tests. Furthermore, the condition of ambiguous negative feedback led to greater self-deception in the final three tests compared to the condition of real negative feedback in Experiment 2. The results also revealed that self-deception gradually diminished with real feedback in the answer group.

Discussion

The findings showed that both ambiguous and real negative feedback reduce self-deception, although real negative feedback having a greater effect than ambiguous feedback. Additionally, the reduction of self-deception was fundamentally related to a decrease in unrealistic positive beliefs, and this decline in self-deception was also influenced by monetary rewards.
Effects of physical activity participation on subjective well-being of Chinese residents: mediating effects of physical health status and perceived social development
Authors: Wei Pingqiang , Qin Ting , Zhu Chengyi
Published: January 2025

Background

Physical exercise participation can effectively improve the subjective well-being of Chinese residents; however, further research is needed to understand how this participation influences their well-being. This study aims to explore the influence mechanism of physical exercise participation on the subjective well-being of Chinese residents and the mediating role of physical health status and social development cognition in this relationship.

Methods

Based on the data from China’s comprehensive social survey in 2021, 7,923 valid samples were selected. Three variables, such as physical exercise participation, physical health status, and social development cognition, were used to explore residents’ subjective well-being. Multiple linear regression models, structural equation models, and bootstrap methods were employed to assess the mediating effects of these variables.

Results

(1) Physical exercise participation can improve residents’ subjective well-being (β=0.084, t = 4.67) and promote the development of positive psychology. (2) Physical health status has a mediating effect on the impact of physical exercise participation on residents’ subjective well-being, with a mediating effect calculated at 0.05 (95% CI [0.01, 0.09]). (3) The cognitive level of social development has a mediating effect on the influence of physical exercise participation on residents’ subjective well-being, with a documented mediating effect of 0.04 (95% CI [0.01, 0.08]). (4) Both physical health status and social development cognition collectively exhibit a chain mediating effect on the relationship between physical exercise and subjective well-being, with a combined mediating effect of 0.07 (95% CI [0.04, 0.10]).

Conclusion

Participation in physical activity has a positive effect on residents’ subjective well-being, with physical health status and social development cognition serving as chain mediators in this relationship. Consequently, it is recommended that both government and various societal sectors intensify efforts to promote physical activity. By creating supportive environments that facilitate regular physical exercise, we can enhance the health and happiness of the population at large.
Case report: Local anesthesia with lidocaine infiltration for extended-release buprenorphine therapy
Authors: Azar Pouya , Kim Jane J. , Rohani Ella , Newman-Azar Dayyon , Narimani Matin , Machado Jessica , Li Victor W.
Published: January 2025

Background

Extended-release buprenorphine (BUP-XR) is a once-monthly subcutaneous injection for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Injection-site pain is a common adverse event reported with BUP-XR administration. Notwithstanding the advantages of BUP-XR, subjective pain and anxiety associated with injections can compromise patients’ willingness to receive treatment. Lidocaine is an amide-type agent and sodium channel blocker commonly used for local and regional anesthesia in various fields of medicine.

Case presentation

We present two cases involving lidocaine infiltration to the induction phase of BUP-XR therapy in an outpatient setting. Prior to the intervention, 2 mL of 1% lidocaine was infiltrated subcutaneously at the sites of the planned needle insertion for a numbing effect. The following BUP-XR therapy was well tolerated by both participants and reported as a painless procedure.

Conclusions

Lidocaine infiltration may be a feasible way to successfully initiate and provide BUP-XR therapy to those who may be deterred by injection-related risks. Our cases describe how lidocaine can be useful in mitigating injection-site pain and encouraging greater uptake, and in turn, greater retention in opioid agonist therapy.
Impact of Comprehensive Health Insurance affiliation on mortality in children under one year: an analysis of the Demographic and Health Survey 2010–2022 in Peru
Authors: Espinola-Sánchez Marcos , Campaña-Acuña Andres , Urrunaga-Pastor Diego , Maguiña Jorge L. , Jumpa Manuel , Ugarte-Ubillus Oscar
Published: January 2025

Objective

To assess the impact of Comprehensive Health Insurance (CHI) coverage on mortality in children under 1 year of age in the Peruvian population from 2010 to 2022. Additionally, the study evaluated how CHI affects infant mortality according to wealth quintiles in the Peruvian population.

Methods

A causal inference analysis with observational data was applied, employing propensity score matching. Participants included children under 1 year of age, surveyed through the National Demographic and Family Health Survey (ENDES) from 2010 to 2022. Variables measured included CHI affiliation and death in children under 1 year. Methods such as inverse probability weighting adjusted by regression, Average Treatment Effect on the Treated (ATET) estimation, and endogeneity test were applied.

Results

The study population consisted of 26,319 children under 1 year, with 11,922 not affiliated with CHI and 14,397 affiliated. The ATET analysis as an exogenous treatment of CHI showed a significant reduction in infant mortality in the overall population of children by 12.6% (95% CI: 12.1 to 13.1%), in the poverty subgroup by 15.6% (95% CI: 14.9 to 16.3%), and in the non-poverty subgroup by 6% (95% CI: 5.5 to 6.4%). However, endogeneity was observed in the ATET for the non-poverty subgroup and for the overall population of children.

Conclusion

CHI affiliation contributes to reducing mortality in children under 1 year in the population with low economic incomes in Peru. However, this relationship is inconclusive for the general population and for the population with medium and high incomes, highlighting the importance of considering socioeconomic, demographic, and other insurance factors.
Risk perception of COVID-19, depressive symptoms and Internet addiction among undergraduates: a longitudinal study
Authors: Zhang Hongpo , Zhang Dandan , Ji Wanghua , Peng Shun
Published: January 2025

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused serious negative psychological effects worldwide, relatively little research has been performed on the potential enduring effects of COVID-19 on people’s emotional health and Internet addiction. This study was to examine the longitudinal associations between risk perception of COVID-19, depressive symptoms, and Internet addiction among Chinese undergraduates.

Methods

We conducted a two-wave longitudinal survey by convenience sampling, a total of 1,153 Chinese undergraduate students completed questionnaires measuring their COVID-19 risk perception and post-traumatic growth (PTG) in December 2022 (T1) via an online survey. Subsequently, 1,008 of the T1 participants (87.42%) completed the depressive symptoms scale and Internet addiction scale 6 months later, in June 2023 (T2).

Results

(1) Risk perception of COVID-19 was significantly and positively predicted depressive symptoms and Internet addiction 6 months later; (2) Depressive symptoms played a mediating role between risk perceptions and Internet addiction; (3) PTG moderated the first-stage link between risk perception and Internet addiction, and this relationship was more robust for low PTG than for high PTG.

Conclusion

These findings advance our understanding of the relationship and mechanisms between risk perception of COVID-19 and Internet addiction, and further support developing interventions to strengthen PTG for mitigating negative outcomes during major crises.