bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the parallel mediation influence of body mass index and depression on physical activity and cognitive function among 3,611 Chinese older adults
Authors: Liu Ji , Qiang Faying , Dang Jingxia , Chen Qiao Yi
Published: September 2022

Background

Engagement in physically active lifestyles brings multidimensional health benefits including better cognitive function. While prior studies examined the link between physical activity and cognitive function, a remaining unanswered question is what modifiable factors channel such effects.

Objective

This study investigates the extent to which subject’s body mass index (BMI) and depression mediate the link between physical activity and cognitive function among older adults in China.

Methods

This study builds a parallel structural equation model utilizing the 2013–2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) dataset. We screened a total of 14,724 subjects, among which 3,611 subjects met the inclusion criteria. Physical activity, depression, and cognitive function are measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Center for Epidemiological Research Depression Scale (CES-D), and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) instruments.

Results

Parallel mediation analyses indicate that depression significantly mediates the link between physical activity and cognitive function (std. β = 0.023, p-value = 0.010), while no significant mediation was observed via BMI (std. β = 0.005, p-value = 0.155). Findings also show that physical activity is positively associated with cognitive function (std. β = 0.104, p-value = 0.004), whereas physical activity is inversely associated with BMI (std. β = –0.072, p-value = 0.045). Both BMI (std. β = –0.071, p-value = 0.042) and depression (std. β = –0.199, p-value = 0.001) are negatively associated with cognitive function.

Conclusion

This study quantifies the positive association between physical activity and cognitive function in older Chinese adults, and uncovers a significant mediation channel occurring through depression. From a clinical perspective, physical behavioral modifications can lead to linked improvements in both mental and cognitive wellbeing for older adults.
Path planning and optimization for micro-robot in a vessel-mimic environment
Authors: Huan Zhijie , Ma Weicheng , Wang Jiamin , Wu Feibin
Published: September 2022

Manipulating micro-robots in blood vessels is an essential technology for medical researchers in applications such as drug delivery and thrombus removal. The usage of micro-robots in medicine can help overcome the limitations of many conventional clinical methods. In this study, we aimed to make the micro-robot more intelligent while moving through blood vessels. First, the skeleton of an image of the blood vessels is extracted, which is further used for path planning. Then, the skeleton-extraction-based A* algorithm was used for determining a best route for the movement of the microrobot at a safe distance from the vascular wall. Finally, the gradient descent algorithm was utilized to smooth the planned path. Simulations were conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms. The proposed methods would improve the efficiency for the further manipulation of the micro-robot in the blood vessel environment.
From nociception to pain perception, possible implications of astrocytes
Authors: Higinio-Rodríguez Frida , Rivera-Villaseñor Angélica , Calero-Vargas Isnarhazni , López-Hidalgo Mónica
Published: September 2022

Astrocytes are determinants for the functioning of the CNS. They respond to neuronal activity with calcium increases and can in turn modulate synaptic transmission, brain plasticity as well as cognitive processes. Astrocytes display sensory-evoked calcium responses in different brain structures related to the discriminative system of most sensory modalities. In particular, noxious stimulation evoked calcium responses in astrocytes in the spinal cord, the hippocampus, and the somatosensory cortex. However, it is not clear if astrocytes are involved in pain. Pain is a private, personal, and complex experience that warns us about potential tissue damage. It is a perception that is not linearly associated with the amount of tissue damage or nociception; instead, it is constructed with sensory, cognitive, and affective components and depends on our previous experiences. However, it is not fully understood how pain is created from nociception. In this perspective article, we provide an overview of the mechanisms and neuronal networks that underlie the perception of pain. Then we proposed that coherent activity of astrocytes in the spinal cord and pain-related brain areas could be important in binding sensory, affective, and cognitive information on a slower time scale.
Case report: A novel PPP3CA truncating mutation within the regulatory domain causes severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy in a Chinese patient
Authors: Li Jieling , Cao Jie
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Developmental and epileptic encephalopathy 91 (DEE91; OMIM#617711) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by heterozygous PPP3CA variants. To the best of our knowledge, only a few DEE91 cases have been reported.

Results

This study reports a boy who experienced recurrent afebrile convulsions and spasms at the age of 2 months. After being given multiple antiepileptic treatments with levetiracetam, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), prednisone, topiramate, and clonazepam, his seizures were not completely relieved. At the age of 4 months, the patient exhibited delayed neuromotor development and difficulty in feeding; at the age of 6 months, he was diagnosed with developmental regression with recurrent spasms and myoclonic seizures that could respond to vigabatrin. At the age of 1 year and 4 months, the patient showed profound global developmental delay (GDD) with intermittent absence seizures. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) identified a novel loss-of-function variant c.1258_1259insAGTG (p. Val420Glufs*32) in PPP3CA.

Conclusion

This finding expands the genetic spectrum of the PPP3CA gene and reinforces the theory that DEE91-associated truncating variants cluster within a 26-amino acid region in the regulatory domain (RD) of PPP3CA.
Gray matter volume of cerebellum associated with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Lv Minrui , Yang Xiaolin , Zhou Xi , Chen Jiakuan , Wei Haihua , Du Duanming , Lin Hai , Xia Jun
Published: September 2022

The cause of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus's (iNPH) clinical symptoms remains unclear. The cerebral cortex is the center of the brain and provides a structural basis for complex perception and motor function. This study aimed to explore the relationship between changes in cerebral cortex volume and clinical symptoms in patients with iNPH. This study included 21 iNPH patients and 20 normal aging (NA) controls. Voxel-based morphometry statistical results showed that, compared with NA, the gray matter volumes of patients with iNPH in the bilateral temporal lobe, bilateral hippocampus, bilateral thalamus, bilateral insula, left amygdala, right lenticular nucleus, right putamen, and cerebellum decreased, while the volumes of gray matter in the bilateral paracentral lobules, precuneus, bilateral supplementary motor area, medial side of the left cerebral hemisphere, and median cingulate and paracingulate gyri increased. Correlation analysis among the volumes of white matter and gray matter in the cerebrum and cerebellum and the iNPH grading scale (iNPHGS) revealed that the volume of white matter was negatively correlated with the iNPHGS (P < 0.05), while the gray matter volumes of cerebellar area 6 and area 8 were negatively correlated with the clinical symptoms of iNPH (P < 0.05). The volume of gray matter in the cerebellar vermis was negatively correlated with gait, and the gray matter volume of cerebellar area 6 was negatively correlated with cognition. Our findings suggest that the cerebellum also plays an important role in the pathogenesis of iNPH, potentially highlighting new research avenues for iNPH.
Brain activity studied with magnetic resonance imaging in awake rabbits
Authors: Weiss Craig , Bertolino Nicola , Procissi Daniele , Disterhoft John F.
Published: September 2022

We reviewed fMRI experiments from our previous work in conscious rabbits, an experimental preparation that is advantageous for measuring brain activation that is free of anesthetic modulation and which can address questions in a variety of areas in sensory, cognitive, and pharmacological neuroscience research. Rabbits do not struggle or move for several hours while sitting with their heads restrained inside the horizontal bore of a magnet. This greatly reduces movement artifacts in magnetic resonance (MR) images in comparison to other experimental animals such as rodents, cats, and monkeys. We have been able to acquire high-resolution anatomic as well as functional images that are free of movement artifacts during several hours of restraint. Results from conscious rabbit fMRI studies with whisker stimulation are provided to illustrate the feasibility of this conscious animal model for functional MRI and the reproducibility of data gained with it.
The neuroelectrophysiological and behavioral effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on executive vigilance under a continuous monotonous condition
Authors: Dai Jing , Wang Hang , Yang Lin , Wang Chunchen , Cheng Shan , Zhang Taihui , Ma Jin , Wen Zhihong , Cao Xinsheng , Hu Wendong
Published: September 2022

A prolonged period of vigilance task will lead to vigilance decrement and a drop in cognitive efficiency. Although transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can be used to improve cognitive performance following vigilance decrement, the findings in this area of study are inconsistent. This study aims to identify the neuroelectrophysiological and behavioral effects of tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on executive vigilance under a continuous monotonous condition. We recruited 29 participants who randomly received 30 min active or sham tDCS before the vigilance task (anode electrode at the left DLPFC, cathode electrode at the right supraorbital area). Participants completed four sessions of vigilance task and five sessions of self-report sleepiness, Oddball task, and Go/Nogo task, for a total of about 5 h. EEG was acquired in real-time throughout the experiment. Repeated measures of ANOVA were utilized to analyze the evolution of each metric with task-on-time. The results demonstrated that subjective arousal state, vigilance performance, event-related potentials (ERPs), and EEG power were significantly affected by time on task. Brain stimulation did not significantly affect the evolution of subjective and objective executive vigilance performance, but significantly modulated spontaneous activity in the alpha and beta bands across the entire brain. The continuous enhancement of the prefrontal cortex increased P2 amplitude for the Oddball task, which was associated with the enhancement of the early stage of information processing. P3 amplitude had a temporary enhancement effect, which significantly decreased following a cognitive fatigue. tDCS had a continuous enhancement effect on N2 amplitude for the Go/Nogo task, which was associated with the enhanced inhibition of distracting stimuli. Together, the current data suggest that anodal tDCS over left DLPFC possibly enhances the early stage of relevant information processing and the inhibitory control of distracting stimuli during a continuous and monotonous vigilance task.
Therapeutic effects and long-term outcomes of HMGB1-targeted therapy in rats and mice with traumatic spinal cord injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Chen , Deng Li , Lv Junqiao , Sun Lin
Published: September 2022

Background

To date, the clinical need for therapeutic methods to prevent traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) progression and improve functional recovery has not been met. High mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) is released by necrotic neurons or secreted by glial cells after TSCI and plays an important role in pathophysiology.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of HMGB1-targeted therapy on locomotor function recovery, inflammation reduction, edema attenuation, and apoptosis reduction in rat and mouse models of TSCI.

Methods

We reviewed the literature on HMGB1-targeted therapy in the treatment and prognosis of TSCI. Twelve articles were identified and analyzed from four online databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase) based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and strict inclusion criteria.

Results

The methodological quality of the 12 articles was poor. The results of the meta-analysis showed that compared with the SCI group, the treatment group had significantly increased locomotor function scores after SCI [n = 159, standardized mean difference (SMD) = 2.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.52, 3.10), P < 0.00001], and the change in locomotor function scores was significantly increased in both the drug and anti-HMGB1 Ab groups (P < 0.000001 and P < 0.000001). A subgroup analysis showed significant differences (P > 0.05) between the drug group [(SMD) = 1.95, 95% CI (0.95, 2.94), P = 0.0001] and the anti-HMGB1 Ab group [(SMD) = 2.89, 95% CI (1.66, 4.13), P < 0.00001]. Compared with the SCI group, HMGB1 expression was significantly diminished [n = 76, SMD = −2.31, 95% CI (−3.71, −0.91), P = 0.001], TNF-α levels were significantly reduced [n = 76, SMD = −2.52, 95% CI (−3.77, −1.27), P < 0.0001], water content was significantly reduced [n = 44, SMD = −3.94, 95% CI (−6.28, −1.61), P = 0.0009], and the number of apoptotic cells was significantly diminished [n = 36, SMD = −3.31, 95% CI (−6.40, −0.22), P = 0.04] in the spinal cord of the treatment group.

Conclusion

HMGB1-targeted therapy improves locomotor function, reduces inflammation, attenuates edema, and reduces apoptosis in rats and mice with TSCI. Intrathecal injection of anti-HMGB1 Ab 0-3 h after SCI may be the most efficacious treatment.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier: CRD42022326114.
Whole-genome sequencing combined RNA-sequencing analysis of patients with mutations in SET binding protein 1
Authors: Liu Li , Feng Xiaoshu , Liu Sihan , Zhou Yanqiu , Dong Xiaojing , Yao Hong , Tan Bo
Published: September 2022

SET binding protein 1 (SETBP1) is essential for human development, and pathogenic germline variants in SETBP1 lead to a recognizable developmental syndrome and variable clinical features. In this study, we assessed a patient with facial dysmorphism, intellectual disability and delayed motor development. Whole genome sequencing identified a novel de novo variation of the SETBP1 (c.2631C > A; p. S877R) gene, which is located in the SKI domain, as a likely pathogenic variant for the proband’s phenotype. RNA sequencing was performed to investigate the potential molecular mechanism of the novel variation in SETBP1. In total, 77 and 38 genes were identified with aberrant expression and splicing, respectively. Moreover, the biological functions of these genes were involved in DNA/protein binding, expression regulation, and the cell cycle, which may advance our understanding of the pathogenesis of SETBP1 in vivo.
Probiotic fermentation improves the bioactivities and bioaccessibility of polyphenols in Dendrobium officinale under in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion and fecal fermentation
Authors: Li Rurui , Wang Zhenxing , Kong Kin Weng , Xiang Ping , He Xiahong , Zhang Xuechun
Published: September 2022

The objective of the research was to investigate and compare the bioactivities and bioaccessibility of the polyphenols (PPs) from Dendrobium officinale (DO) and probiotic fermented Dendrobium officinale (FDO), by using in vitro simulated digestion model under oral, gastric and intestinal phases as well as colonic fermentation. The results indicated that FDO possessed significantly higher total phenolic contents (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) than DO, and they were released most in the intestinal digestion phase with 6.96 ± 0.99 mg GAE/g DE and 10.70 ± 1.31 mg RE/g DE, respectively. Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a total of six phenolic acids and four flavonoids were detected. In the intestinal phase, syringaldehyde and ferulic acid were major released by DO, whereas they were p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, and syringic acid for FDO. However, apigenin and scutellarin were sustained throughout the digestion whether DO or FDO. As the digestive process progressed, their antioxidant ability, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities were increased, and FDO was overall substantially stronger in these activities than that of DO. Both DO and FDO could reduce pH values in the colonic fermentation system, and enhance the contents of short-chain fatty acids, but there were no significantly different between them. The results of the 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that both DO and FDO could alter intestinal microbial diversity during in vitro colonic fermentation. In particular, after colonic fermentation for 24 h, FDO could significantly improve the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, and enrich the abundancy of Enterococcus and Bifidobacterium (p < 0.05), which was most likely through the carbohydrate metabolism signal pathway. Taken together, the PPs from DO and FDO had good potential for antioxidant and modulation of gut bacterial flora during the digestive processes, and FDO had better bioactivities and bioaccessibility. This study could provide scientific data and novel insights for Dendrobium officinale to be developed as functional foods.
Hormetic response to B-type procyanidin ingestion involves stress-related neuromodulation via the gut-brain axis: Preclinical and clinical observations
Authors: Osakabe Naomi , Fushimi Taiki , Fujii Yasuyuki
Published: September 2022

B-type procyanidins, a series of catechin oligomers, are among the most ingested polyphenols in the human diet. Results of meta-analyses have suggested that intake of B-type procyanidins reduces cardiovascular disease risk. Another recent focus has been on the effects of B-type procyanidins on central nervous system (CNS) function. Although long-term B-type procyanidin ingestion is linked to health benefits, a single oral intake has been reported to cause physiological alterations in circulation, metabolism, and the CNS. Comprehensive analyses of previous reports indicate an optimal mid-range dose for the hemodynamic effects of B-type procyanidins, with null responses at lower or higher doses, suggesting hormesis. Indeed, polyphenols, including B-type procyanidins, elicit hormetic responses in vitro, but animal and clinical studies are limited. Hormesis of hemodynamic and metabolic responses to B-type procyanidins was recently confirmed in animal studies, however, and our work has linked these effects to the CNS. Here, we evaluate the hormetic response elicited by B-type procyanidins, recontextualizing the results of intervention trials. In addition, we discuss the possibility that this hormetic response to B-type procyanidins arises via CNS neurotransmitter receptors. We have verified the direction of future research for B-type procyanidins in this review.
Clinical-radiomics nomogram for identifying HER2 status in patients with breast cancer: A multicenter study
Authors: Fang Caiyun , Zhang Juntao , Li Jizhen , Shang Hui , Li Kejian , Jiao Tianyu , Yin Di , Li Fuyan , Cui Yi , Zeng Qingshi
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To develop and validate a clinical-radiomics nomogram based on radiomics features and clinical risk factors for identification of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status in patients with breast cancer (BC).

Methods

Two hundred and thirty-five female patients with BC were enrolled from July 2018 to February 2022 and divided into a training group (from center I, 115 patients), internal validation group (from center I, 49 patients), and external validation group (from centers II and III, 71 patients). The preoperative MRI of all patients was obtained, and radiomics features were extracted by a free open-source software called 3D Slicer. The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression model was used to identify the most useful features. The radiomics score (Rad-score) was calculated by using the radiomics signature-based formula. A clinical-radiomics nomogram combining clinical factors and Rad-score was developed through multivariate logistic regression analysis. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

A total of 2,553 radiomics features were extracted, and 21 radiomics features were selected as the most useful radiomics features. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that Rad-score, progesterone receptor (PR), and Ki-67 were independent parameters to distinguish HER2 status. The clinical-radiomics nomogram, which comprised Rad-score, PR, and Ki-67, showed a favorable classification capability, with AUC of 0.87 [95% confidence internal (CI), 0.80 to 0.93] in the training group, 0.81 (95% CI, 0.69 to 0.94) in the internal validation group, and 0.84 (95% CI, 0.75 to 0.93) in the external validation group. DCA illustrated that the nomogram was useful in clinical practice.

Conclusions

The nomogram combined with Rad-score, PR, and Ki-67 can identify the HER2 status of BC.
Detecting and monitoring bladder cancer with exfoliated cells in urine
Authors: Li Nannan , Wang Lei , Liang Han , Lin Cong , Yi Ji , Yang Qin , Luo Huijuan , Luo Tian , Zhang Liwei , Li Xiaojian , Wu Kui , Li Fuqiang , Li Ningchen
Published: September 2022

Current methods for the diagnosis and monitoring of bladder cancer are invasive and have suboptimal sensitivity. Liquid biopsy as a non-invasive approach has been capturing attentions recently. To explore the ability of urine-based liquid biopsy in detecting and monitoring genitourinary tumors, we developed a method based on promoter-targeted DNA methylation of urine sediment DNA. We used samples from a primary bladder cancer cohort (n=40) and a healthy cohort (n=40) to train a model and obtained an integrated area under the curve (AUC) > 0.96 in the 10-fold cross-validation, which demonstrated the ability of our method for detecting bladder cancer from the healthy. We next validated the model with samples from a recurrent cohort (n=21) and a non-recurrent cohort (n=19) and obtained an AUC > 0.91, which demonstrated the ability of our model in monitoring the progress of bladder cancer. Moreover, 80% (4/5) of samples from patients with benign urothelial diseases had been considered to be healthy sample rather than cancer sample, preliminarily demonstrating the potential of distinguishing benign urothelial diseases from cancer. Further analysis basing on multiple-time point sampling revealed that the cancer signal in 80% (4/5) patients had decreased as expected when they achieved the recurrent-free state. All the results suggested that our method is a promising approach for noninvasive detection and prognostic monitoring of bladder cancer.
Hospitalized children with SARS-CoV-2 infection and MIS-C in Jamaica: A dive into the first 15 months of the novel pandemic
Authors: Berry Crista-Lee Shahine , Melbourne-Chambers Roxanne Helene , Harrison Abigail Natalie , Anzinger Joshua James , Gordon-Johnson Kelly-Ann Maxorinthia , Deyde Varough Mohamed , Christie Celia Dana Claire
Published: September 2022

Objectives

COVID-19 in children was initially mild until the emergence of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). We describe pediatric COVID-19 in a developing country within the Caribbean.

Methods

Jamaican children who were hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection, in one Caribbean regional academic referral center from April 2020 through June 2021 were included. Prospective surveillance and pediatric infectious disease consultations were performed using the CDC's MIS-C case definition. Data were extracted from patients' hospital charts using WHO's reporting form, entered into the RedCap database, and SPSS 28 was used for analysis. MIS-C and non-MIS-C patients were compared using independent sample t-tests for continuous variables and Fisher's exact test for categorical variables, p values < 0.05 were statistically significant.

Results

Seventy-nine children with COVID-19 with/without MIS-C presented to UHWI. Thirty-eight (48%) were mild ambulatory cases. Hospitalizations occurred in 41 (52%) children, with median age of 10 12 years. SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR positivity was present in 26 (63%), Immunoglobulin M, or Immunoglobulin G (IgM/IgG) positivity in 8 (20%), with community exposures in 7 (17%). Eighteen (44%) MIS-C positive patients were significantly more likely than 23 MIS-C negative patients (56%) to present with fever (94% vs. 30%; p < 0.001), fatigue/lethargy (41% vs. 4%; p = 0.006), lymphadenopathy (33% vs. 0%; p = 0.003), elevated neutrophils (100% vs. 87%; p = 0.024), and ESR (78% vs. 9%; p = 0.002). Involvement of > two organ systems occurred more frequently in MIS-C positive cases (100% vs. 34%; p < 0.001), including gastrointestinal (72% vs. 17%; p < 0.001); vomiting/nausea (39% vs. 9%; p < 0.028); hematological/coagulopathic (67% vs. 4%; p < 0.001); dermatologic involvement (56% vs. 0%; p < 0.001); and mucositis (28% vs. 0%; p = 0.001). MIS-C patients had Kawasaki syndrome (44%), cardiac involvement (17%), and pleural effusions (17%). MIS-C patients had >4 abnormal inflammatory biomarkers including D-dimers, C-reactive protein, ESR, ferritin, troponins, lactate dehydrogenase, neutrophils, platelets, lymphocytes, and albumen (72%). MIS-C patients were treated with intravenous immune gamma globulin (78%), aspirin (68%), steroids (50%), and non-invasive ventilation (11%). None required inotropes/vasopressors. MIS-C negative patients received standard care. All recovered except one child who was receiving renal replacement therapy and developed myocardial complications.

Conclusions

In this first report of COVID-19 from the Caribbean, children and adolescents with and without MIS-C were not very severe. Critical care interventions were minimal and outcomes were excellent.
An exploration of eating behaviours and caregiver mealtime actions of children with Tourette syndrome
Authors: Smith Bobbie L. , Ludlow Amanda K.
Published: September 2022

Food avoidant behaviours are common concerns amongst individuals with Tourette syndrome, with high levels of food selectivity reported in children and food neophobia and avoidant restrictive eating behaviours in adults. However, less is known about food approach behaviours. The current study aimed to explore differences in food approach and food avoidant eating behaviours in children with Tourette syndrome (TS) and their relationship to caregiver mealtime actions. Thirty-seven caregivers of children with Tourette syndrome were compared with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and a control group. Caregivers completed the Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire and Parent Mealtime Action Scale-Revised. Caregiver-reported findings revealed that children with Tourette syndrome exhibited more food approach behaviours, specifically greater food responsiveness, emotional overeating and desire to drink, compared to controls. Children from the three neurodiverse groups had similar levels of emotional overeating and food selectivity, which were all significantly higher than the control group. Positive persuasion was uniquely identified as a mealtime strategy adopted by caregivers of children with Tourette syndrome. The results suggest that children with Tourette syndrome are at more risk of showing a broader array of food difficulties than previously reported, including food avoidant and approach behaviours. It is encouraged that clinicians monitor eating behaviour in appointments with children with Tourette syndrome.
Microarray analysis of lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles in patients with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
Authors: Wang Shangyu , Zhong Haobo , Ze Renhao , Hong Pan , Li Jin , Tang Xin
Published: September 2022

Background

The etiology and underlying pathogenic mechanisms of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD) still remain unclear. A disruption of blood supply to the femoral head, producing ischemic necrosis, appears to be the critical pathological event. The lncRNAs play crucial roles in many biological processes and are dysregulated in various human diseases. However, its expression profiles and the potential regulatory roles in the development of LCPD have not been investigated.

Methods

In this study, differentially expressed lncRNA and mRNA of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease patients were profiled. Several GO terms and pathways that play important roles in the regulation of vascular structure, function or coagulation were selected for further analysis. The lncRNA -mRNA interacting networks in LCPD tissues were constructed to identify novel potential targets for further investigation.

Results

The microarray analysis revealed that 149 lncRNAs and 37 mRNAs were up-regulated, and 64 lncRNAs and 250 mRNAs were down-regulated in LCPD tissues. After filtering, we finally found 14 mRNAs and constructed an mRNA-lncRNA interacting network. Through the analysis of the interaction network, we finally found 13 differentially expressed lncRNAs, which may be implicated in the pathogenesis of LCPD. These mRNAs/lncRNAs were further validated with qRT-PCR.

Conclusion

The findings of this study established a co-expression network of disease-related lncRNAs and mRNAs which screened out from the concerned G.O. terms and Pathways, which may provide new sights for future studies on molecular mechanisms of LCPD.
Evaluation of nine formulas for estimating the body surface area of children with hematological malignancies
Authors: Wu Qing , Zhou Yan , Fan Xin , Ma Huan , Gu Wenrui , Sun Fengjun
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Body surface area (BSA) is an important parameter in clinical practice for children. To find out the most accurate BSA formula for Chinese children, nine formulas were compared.

Methods

This single-center study comprised children who were diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and treated with anticancer agents in a specialized children's hospital in China from January 2017 to December 2020. The BSA values were calculated using the formulas from Boyd, Banerjee and Bhattacharya, Costeff, Fujimoto and Watanabe, Haycock, Gehan and George, Mosteller, Stevenson and a Pediatrics textbook. The arithmetic mean of formulas was calculated as the “gold standard” for comparison.

Results

A total of 666 children (389 males and 277 females) were included. All nine formulas showed a strong positive correlation with the “gold standard.” Underestimation was observed with the Banerjee and Bhattacharya, Fujimoto and Watanabe formulas. The Gehan and George formula showed overestimation. Values estimated from the Haycock and Mosteller formulas were the closest to the mean BSA.

Conclusion

The Haycock and Mosteller formulas are the most recommended formulas for Chinese children with hematological malignancies.
Efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus midazolam when combined with butorphanol for sedation and analgesia during burn dressing changes: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ding Xianchao , Cui Hengfeng , Ma Peng , Chen Xi , Sun Yan , Qu Minye , Yan Zhixin
Published: September 2022

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare dexmedetomidine-butorphanol (DB) and midazolam-butorphanol (MB) combinations for sedation, and analgesia in burn patients undergoing dressing changes.

Methods: A total of 56 ASA I–II burn patients were included in this single-center randomized clinical trial. The ages of these patients were between 20 and 60 years. TBSA ranged from 10% to 50%. They were randomized to group DB and group MB during dressing change. In the DB group, each patient received a bolus dose of dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg kg−1) and intermittent boluses of butorphanol (20 μg kg−1). In the MB group, each patient received a bolus dose of midazolam (0.05 mg kg−1) and intermittent boluses of butorphanol (20 μg kg−1). The primary outcomes were sedation scores and pain scores. The second outcomes were vital signs, side effects, and butorphanol consumption.

Results: The sedation scores of these two groups did not differ significantly (p > 0.05), and the pain scores of these groups were not significantly different (p > 0.05). More patients had hypotension in the DB group than in the MB group (6 versus 0, p = 0.01), but the number of patients who had respiratory depression was higher in the MB group compared with the DB group (4 versus 0, p = 0.038). Butorphanol consumption in the MB group was higher than in the DB group (p = 0.025).

Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine is comparable to midazolam when combined with butorphanol in burn patients during dressing change. Compared with midazolam, it has the advantage of opioid-sparing effect.

Clinical Trial Registration: [http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx&proj=130622], identifier [ChiCTR2100049325].
Discovery of novel IDH1-R132C inhibitors through structure-based virtual screening
Authors: Hu Chujiao , Zeng Zhirui , Ma Dan , Yin Zhixin , Zhao Shanshan , Chen Tengxiang , Tang Lei , Zuo Shi
Published: September 2022

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) belongs to a family of enzymes involved in glycometabolism. It is found in many living organisms and is one of the most mutated metabolic enzymes. In the current study, we identified novel IDH1-R132C inhibitors using docking-based virtual screening and cellular inhibition assays. A total of 100 molecules with high docking scores were obtained from docking-based virtual screening. The cellular inhibition assay demonstrated five compounds at a concentration of 10 μM could inhibit cancer cells harboring the IDH1-R132C mutation proliferation by > 50%. The compound (T001-0657) showed the most potent effect against cancer cells harboring the IDH1-R132C mutation with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 1.311 μM. It also showed a cytotoxic effect against cancer cells with wild-type IDH1 and normal cells with IC50 values of 49.041 μM and >50 μM, respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to investigate the stability of the kinase structure binding of allosteric inhibitor compound A and the identified compound T001-0657 binds to IDH1-R132C. Root-mean-square deviation, root-mean-square fluctuation, and binding free energy calculations showed that both compounds bind tightly to IDH1-R132C. In conclusion, the compound identified in this study had high selectivity for cancer cells harboring IDH1-R132C mutation and could be considered a promising hit compound for further development of IDH1-R132C inhibitors.
Ferroptosis: A mixed blessing for infectious diseases
Authors: Xiao Leyao , Huang Huanshao , Fan Shuhao , Zheng Biying , Wu Jianguo , Zhang Junai , Pi Jiang , Xu Jun-Fa
Published: September 2022

To date, it has been confirmed that the occurrence and development of infectious diseases are tightly associated with regulatory cell death processes, such as apoptosis, autophagy, and necroptosis. Ferroptosis, as a newly discovered form of regulatory cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, is not only closely associated with tumor progression, but is also found to be tightly related to the regulation of infectious diseases, such as Tuberculosis, Cryptococcal meningitis, Malaria and COVID-2019. The emerging critical roles of ferroptosis that has been found in infectious disease highlight ferroptosis as a potential therapeutic target in this field, which is therefore widely expected to be developed into new therapy strategy against infectious diseases. Here, we summarized the underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis and highlighted the intersections between host immunity and ferroptosis. Moreover, we illuminated the roles of ferroptosis in the occurrence and progression of different infectious diseases, which might provide some unique inspiration and thought-provoking perspectives for the future research of these infectious diseases, especially for the development of ferroptosis-based therapy strategy against infectious diseases.
Parametric model-order-reduction development for unsteady convection
Authors: Tsai Ping-Hsuan , Fischer Paul
Published: September 2022

A time-averaged error indicator with POD-hGreedy is developed to drive parametric model order reduction (pMOR) for 2D unsteady natural convection in a high-aspect ratio slot parameterized with the Prandtl number, Rayleigh number, and slot angle with respect to the gravity. The error indicator is extended to accommodate the energy equation and Leray regularization. Despite being two-dimensional and laminar, the target flow regime presents several challenges: 1) there is a bifurcation in the angle parameter space; 2) the solution can be multivalued, even at steady state; and 3) the solution exhibits spatio-temporal chaos at several points in the parameter space. The authors explore several reduced-order models (ROMs) and demonstrate that Leray-regularized Galerkin ROMs provide a robust solution approach for this class of flows. They further demonstrate that error-indicated pMOR can efficiently predict several QOIs, such as mean flow, mean Nusselt number and mean turbulent kinetic energy, even in the presence of a bifurcation. Finally, they show that spatio-temporal chaos can lead to lack of reproducibility in both the full-order model and the reduced-order model and that the variance in the full-order model provides a lower bound on the pMOR error in these cases.
Application of reinforcement learning in the LHC tune feedback
Authors: Grech Leander , Valentino Gianluca , Alves Diogo , Hirlaender Simon
Published: September 2022

The Beam-Based Feedback System (BBFS) was primarily responsible for correcting the beam energy, orbit and tune in the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC). A major code renovation of the BBFS was planned and carried out during the LHC Long Shutdown 2 (LS2). This work consists of an explorative study to solve a beam-based control problem, the tune feedback (QFB), utilising state-of-the-art Reinforcement Learning (RL). A simulation environment was created to mimic the operation of the QFB. A series of RL agents were trained, and the best-performing agents were then subjected to a set of well-designed tests. The original feedback controller used in the QFB was reimplemented to compare the performance of the classical approach to the performance of selected RL agents in the test scenarios. Results from the simulated environment show that the RL agent performance can exceed the controller-based paradigm.
Heat and Mass Transfer Analysis for Unsteady Three-Dimensional Flow of Hybrid Nanofluid Over a Stretching Surface Using Supervised Neural Networks
Authors: Shoaib Muhammad , Abukhaled Marwan , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Khan Muhammad Abdul Rehman , Sabir Muhammad Tauseef , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Iltaf Iqra
Published: September 2022

The application of hybrid nanomaterials for the improvement of thermal efficiency of base fluid has increasingly gained attention during the past few decades. The basic purpose of this study is to investigate the flow characteristics along with heat transfer in an unsteady three-dimensional flow of hybrid nanofluid over a stretchable and rotatory sheet (3D-UHSRS). The flow model in the form of PDEs was reduced to the set of ordinary differential equations utilizing the appropriate transformations of similarity. The influence of the rotation parameter, unsteadiness parameter, stretching parameter, radiation parameter, and Prandtl number on velocities and thermal profile was graphically examined. A reference solution in the form of dataset points for the 3D-UHSRS model are computed with the help of renowned Lobatto IIIA solver, and this solution is exported to MATLAB for the proper implementation of proposed solution methodology based on the Levenberg–Marquardt supervised neural networks. Graphical and numerical results based on the mean square error (MSEs), time series response, error distribution plots, and regression plots endorses the precision, validity, and consistency of the proposed solution methodology. The MSE up to the level of 10–12 confirms the accuracy of the achieved results.
Spatial sputtering of fused silica after a laser-induced exploding caused by a 355 nm nd: YAG laser
Authors: Peng Ge , Zhang Peng , Dong Zhe , Chen Jiaxuan , Liang Lingxi , Zhu Chengyu , Gao Qiang , Lu Lihua
Published: September 2022

To alleviate laser-induced threats in the high-power laser systems, it is necessary to understand the debris propagation process and distribution characteristics, then take protection and cleaning strategies to sustain an ultra-clean environment. This work presents an experimental investigation of the sputtering behaviors of the laser-induced fused silica debris to clarify their longitudinal propagation and bottom distribution on the millimeter scale. Two types of polished surfaces with more than three orders of magnitude differences in surface roughness were adopted. The result reveals the centralized/decentralized distribution and the ability of long-range movement of debris propelled by the melting and mechanical failure. The maximum largest dispersion angle (LDA) appears at 18J/cm2 for debris within 10–20 μm from the Two Sides polished surface; debris <30 μm dominate the major quantity in the longitudinal propagation, and their centralization ability profoundly relies on the laser fluence and the surface roughness of the target; the diameter of the debris with long-range movement generally below 20 μm. This study could guide for establishing the overall dynamic cleaning strategy inside the high-power laser systems.
A review of nanoparticle decharging in atmospheric pressure plasma afterglows
Authors: Staps T.J.A.
Published: September 2022

Plasma afterglows interacting with dust grains present a dynamic environment in which negatively charged dust grains leaving the plasma bulk experience an environment with plasma conditions transient in space and time. This review focuses on the impact of atmospheric pressure on the physics concerning the interaction between dust grains and the plasma afterglow. The four stage model commonly applied to low pressure dusty plasma afterglows provides a guiding framework for the analysis describing the phases of electron temperature relaxation, ambipolar diffusion, ambipolar-to-free diffusion transition and free diffusion. This work is completed by a non-exhaustive overview of research gaps and opportunities in the young and vibrant field of atmospheric pressure dusty plasma afterglows.
Compartmental analysis of three-dimensional choroidal vascularity and thickness of myopic eyes in young adults using SS-OCTA
Authors: Luo Huan , Sun Jinfu , Chen Lan , Ke Dandan , Zhong Zheng , Cheng Xi , Yu Huimin , Sun Xufang
Published: September 2022

Purpose: We aimed to investigate the change of three-dimensional (3D) choroidal thickness (ChT), choroidal vessel volume (CVV), and choroidal vessel index (CVI) in young myopic adults using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA) and compare the difference of these indicators in different quadrants of the macula and optic disc.

Methods: A total of 248 eye samples from 135 participants were used in this cross-sectional study. Each participant underwent detailed history taking and ocular examinations. Based on axial length (AL), patients were divided into the emmetropia (EM) group, mild-myopia (MIM) group, moderate-myopia (MOM) group, and high-myopia (HM) group. 6 mm × 6 mm (1,024 × 1024 B-scans) SS-OCTA scans were performed centered on the fovea and optic disc. 3D ChT, CVV, and CVI were measured based on a built-in deep learning algorithm. Differences in ChT, CVV, and CVI were analyzed in different regions and different myopic groups.

Results: Significant reduction in the global CVV were found in the HM group (1.930 ± 0.865) in comparison with the EM (3.486 ± 0.992), MIM (3.238 ± 1.033), and MOM (2.589 ± 1.083) groups (p < 0.001). The global CVI was also lower in the HM group (0.258 ± 0.061) than in the EM (0.320 ± 0.055), MIM (0.320 ± 0.051), and MOM (0.286 ± 0.066) groups (p < 0.001). The ChT was thinner in eyes with HM (242.753 ± 65.641) than in eyes with EM (377.532 ± 80.593), MIM (348.367 ± 78.191), or MOM (300.197 ± 87.175) (p < 0.001). Compartmental analysis revealed that ChT, CVV, and CVI in the nasal quadrant of the macula and temporal and inferior quadrants of the optic disc were much lower than those in other quadrants (p < 0.05). Correlation analyses found that ChT, CVV, and CVI were negatively correlated with AL and spherical equivalence.

Conclusion: 3D ChT, CVV, and CVI gradually decreased as the degree of myopia increased. The changes were more dramatic on the nasal side of the macula and the temporal and inferior sides of the optic disc. These findings demonstrated the 3D choroidal change and highlighted the papillo-macular bundle as a sensitive region in myopic development.
Shaped by leaky ER: Homeostatic Ca2+ fluxes
Authors: Schulte Annemarie , Blum Robert
Published: September 2022

At any moment in time, cells coordinate and balance their calcium ion (Ca2+) fluxes. The term ‘Ca2+ homeostasis’ suggests that balancing resting Ca2+ levels is a rather static process. However, direct ER Ca2+ imaging shows that resting Ca2+ levels are maintained by surprisingly dynamic Ca2+ fluxes between the ER Ca2+ store, the cytosol, and the extracellular space. The data show that the ER Ca2+ leak, continuously fed by the high-energy consuming SERCA, is a fundamental driver of resting Ca2+ dynamics. Based on simplistic Ca2+ toolkit models, we discuss how the ER Ca2+ leak could contribute to evolutionarily conserved Ca2+ phenomena such as Ca2+ entry, ER Ca2+ release, and Ca2+ oscillations.
Influence of MRI-based boundary conditions on type B aortic dissection simulations in false lumen with or without abdominal aorta involvement
Authors: Liu Dongting , Wang Xuan , Zhao Dongliang , Sun Zhonghua , Biekan Jumatay , Wen Zhaoying , Xu Lei , Liu Jiayi
Published: September 2022

Most computational hemodynamic studies of aortic dissections rely on idealized or general boundary conditions. However, numerical simulations that ignore the characteristics of the abdominal branch arteries may not be conducive to accurately observing the hemodynamic changes below the branch arteries. In the present study, two men (M-I and M-II) with type B aortic dissection (TBAD) underwent arterial-phase computed tomography angiography and four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). The finite element method was used to simulate the computational fluid dynamic parameters of TBAD [false lumen (FL) with or without visceral artery involvement] under MRI-specific and three idealized boundary conditions in one cardiac cycle. Compared to the results of zero pressure and outflow boundary conditions, the simulations with MRI boundary conditions were closer to the initial MRI data. The pressure difference between true lumen and FL after TEVAR under the other three boundary conditions was lower than that of the MRI-specific results. The results of the outflow boundary conditions could not characterize the effect of the increased wall pressure near the left renal artery caused by the impact of Tear-1, which raised concerns about the distal organ and limb perfused by FL. After TEVAR, the flow velocity and wall pressure in the FL and the distribution areas of high time average wall shear stress and oscillating shear index were reduced. The difference between the calculation results for different boundary conditions was lower in M-II, wherein FL did not involve the abdominal aorta branches than in M-I. The boundary conditions of the abdominal branch arteries from MRI data might be valuable in elucidating the hemodynamic changes of the descending aorta in TBAD patients before and after treatment, especially those with FL involving the branch arteries.