bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence and automated monitoring for assisting conservation of marine ecosystems: A perspective
Authors: Ditria Ellen M. , Buelow Christina A. , Gonzalez-Rivero Manuel , Connolly Rod M.
Published: July 2022

Conservation of marine ecosystems has been highlighted as a priority to ensure a sustainable future. Effective management requires data collection over large spatio-temporal scales, readily accessible and integrated information from monitoring, and tools to support decision-making. However, there are many roadblocks to achieving adequate and timely information on both the effectiveness, and long-term success of conservation efforts, including limited funding, inadequate sampling, and data processing bottlenecks. These factors can result in ineffective, or even detrimental, management decisions in already impacted ecosystems. An automated approach facilitated by artificial intelligence (AI) provides conservation managers with a toolkit that can help alleviate a number of these issues by reducing the monitoring bottlenecks and long-term costs of monitoring. Automating the collection, transfer, and processing of data provides managers access to greater information, thereby facilitating timely and effective management. Incorporating automation and big data availability into a decision support system with a user-friendly interface also enables effective adaptive management. We summarise the current state of artificial intelligence and automation techniques used in marine science and use examples in other disciplines to identify existing and potentially transferable methods that can enable automated monitoring and improve predictive modelling capabilities to support decision making. We also discuss emerging technologies that are likely to be useful as research in computer science and associated technologies continues to develop and become more accessible. Our perspective highlights the potential of AI and big data analytics for supporting decision-making, but also points to important knowledge gaps in multiple areas of the automation processes. These current challenges should be prioritised in conservation research to move toward implementing AI and automation in conservation management for a more informed understanding of impacted ecosystems to result in successful outcomes for conservation managers. We conclude that the current research and emphasis on automated and AI assisted tools in several scientific disciplines may mean the future of monitoring and management in marine science is facilitated and improved by the implementation of automation.
A Dual-Band Model for the Vertical Distribution of Photosynthetically Available Radiation (PAR) in Stratified Waters
Authors: Xing Xiaogang , Lee Zhongping , Xiu Peng , Chen Shuangling , Chai Fei
Published: July 2022

Based on the optical properties of water constituents, the vertical variation of photosynthetically available radiation (PAR) can be well modeled with hyperspectral resolution; the intensive computing load, however, demands simplified modeling that can be easily embedded in marine physical and biogeochemical models. While the vertical PAR profile in homogeneous waters can now be accurately modeled with simple parameterization, it is still a big challenge to model the PAR profile in stratified waters with limited variables. In this study, based on empirical equations and simulations, we propose a dual-band model to characterize the vertical distribution of PAR using the chlorophyll concentration (Chl). With an inclusive dataset including cruise data collected in the Southeast Pacific and BGC-Argo data in the global ocean, the model was thoroughly evaluated for its general applicability in three aspects: 1) estimating the entire PAR profile from sea-surface PAR and the Chl profile, 2) estimating the euphotic layer depth from the Chl profile, and 3) estimating PAR just below the sea surface from in situ radiometry measurements. It is demonstrated that the proposed dual-band model is capable of generating similar estimates as that from a hyperspectral model, thus offering an effective module that can be incorporated in large-scale ecosystem and/or circulation models for efficient calculations.
Incorporating coastal blue carbon into subnational greenhouse gas inventories
Authors: Zhao Peng , Ge Song , He Dinghua , Zhong Cairong , Wang Boyan , Wang Xiaokang , Wang Fengxia , Kao Shuhji
Published: July 2022

The climate mitigation potential of coastal blue carbon including mangroves, seagrasses and tidal marshes have been widely recognized, and guidelines for incorporating coastal wetlands into greenhouse gas inventories released by IPCC in 2014 make it possible to bring coastal blue carbon into multilevel climate governance regimes. However, the intricate guidelines and inadequate data block governments from accounting and reporting their coastal blue carbon in inventories. In this research, we integrated and simplified the equations and assumptions of IPCC inventory guidance on coastal wetlands, and took Hainan province of China as a case study by (1) formulating a land use change matrix from high resolution satellite imagery for the years of 2010 to 2020, (2) compiling dataset of emission factors for coastal wetlands of Hainan, and (3) estimating CO2, CH4, and N2O emissions from coastal wetlands in Hainan. We reveal that the mangroves’ area increased from 4,190.7 ha in 2010 to 4,644.1 ha in 2020, with a net increase of 483.9 ha from tidal flats and aquaculture ponds. The weighted average EFAGB and EFsoil of Hainan is 61.7 MgC ha-1 and 227.4 MgC ha-1, respectively,estimated from peer-reviewed literature in both Chinese and English. The annual average net CO2 emission of mangroves of Hainan is -26974.3 MgCO2e yr-1. CO2 emission from mangrove deforestation and N2O emission from shrimp aquaculture in coastal aeras may offset the efforts of coastal wetlands conservation and restoration. Countries and sub-country regions are encouraged to bring coastal blue carbon into greenhouse gases inventories as soon as possible, and to take a bottom-up strategy to initiate the task at a local level.
Biochemical features and modulation of digestive enzymes by environmental temperature in the greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili
Authors: Navarro-Guillén Carmen , Yúfera Manuel , Perera Erick
Published: July 2022

The study of fish digestive biochemistry is essential to understand factors that affect the net efficiency of food transformation and growth, and therefore aquaculture profitability. The aim of the present study was to assess the activity and functional characteristics of key digestive enzymes in juveniles of greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili), as well as the possible modulation of their relative importance by water temperature. For that, a combination of biochemical assays and substrate-SDS-PAGE were used. Under physiological conditions pepsin activity was negligible. Chymotrypsin was the most active enzyme in the digestive tract of the greater amberjack, while lipase was the enzyme with lower activity, though both enzymes in addition to trypsin were responsive to water temperature as revealed by discriminant analysis. Seriola dumerili showed to have pH-sensitive and, except for chymotrypsin, thermally robust proteases. Inhibition assays showed the major importance of serine proteases and revealed inverse trypsin and chymotrypsin responses to environmental temperature, with higher trypsin contribution in 26°C-fish while higher chymotrypsin contribution in 18°C-fish. Zymograms revealed three isotrypsin and three isochymotrypsin enzymes, with no variation in the presence of particular isoforms among rearing temperatures. However, they confirmed the role of chymotrypsin activity in providing digestive plasticity, with one of the isoforms being more active at lower temperatures. Thus, results indicate that variation in the relative contribution of chymotrypsin isoenzymes to a particular environmental temperature occurs due to different physic-chemical features of isoforms as a source of functional flexibility. This study assessed for the first time the effects of rearing temperature on greater amberjack digestive enzymes, increasing the knowledge on its digestive biochemistry, and aiding in the improvement of management practices for this species industrialization.
Effect of Prophylactic Intrathecal Pethidine on the Incidence of Shivering on Mothers Undergoing Cesarean Section Under Spinal Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Girma Timsel , Alemu Wagaye , Assen Sofia
Published: July 2022

Background

Shivering is the most common and unpleasant complication of anesthesia with an incidence of 70.7% in cesarean section done under spinal anesthesia which is associated with cardiovascular and respiratory complications. Even though it causes such devastating complications; the prevention of shivering is not well investigated. This study aimed to assess the effect of intrathecal pethidine on the incidence and severity of shivering in patients undergoing cesarean section under Spinal anesthesia.

Materials and Methods

After obtaining ethical clearance double-blinded single centered a randomized controlled trial was conducted in a total of 86 pregnant mothers who were randomly allocated into two groups by computer-generated random number. Approximately 1 ml of 10 mg preservative-free pethidine was added to 12.5 mg of 0.5% bupivacaine for spinal anesthesia in the treatment group and 12.5 mg of 0.5% bupivacaine alone was given in the control group. Incidence and severity of shivering, as well as adverse effect was recorded intraoperatively, in post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) and ward. Independent sample t-test, Mann–Whitney U test and chi-square were used for analysis. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Shivering was observed in 53.5 and 20.9% in the control and treatment groups, respectively, which was statistically significant with p = 0.002. The risk of developing shivering was reduced by 61% in the treatment group with (RR = 0.39 and CI of 0.205–0.745); the intensity of shivering was also higher in the control group than in the treatment group with p = 0.004. Considering an adverse effect, the incidence of PONV was not significantly different between with p > 0.05 while the incidence of pruritus was higher in the treatment group than the control group with p = 0.003.

Conclusion

Adding 10 mg of preservative free pethidine intrathecally during spinal anesthesia is effective in reducing incidence and severity of shivering, without causing significant adverse effects on mother.
Impact of Time-Varying Intensity of Mechanical Ventilation on 28-Day Mortality Depends on Fluid Balance in Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hu Weiwei , Zhang Suming , He Zhengyu , Zhou Yang , Wang Ziwen , Zhang Yang , Zang Baohe , Zhao Wenjing , Chao Yali
Published: July 2022

Background

Recent studies have mainly focused on the association between baseline intensity of mechanical ventilation (driving pressure or mechanical power) and mortality in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It is unclear whether the association between the time-varying intensity of mechanical ventilation and mortality is significant and varies according to the fluid balance trajectories.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis based on the NHLBI ARDS Network’s Fluid and Catheter Treatment Trial (FACTT). The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. The group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) was employed to identify phenotypes based on fluid balance trajectories. Bayesian joint models were used to account for informative censoring due to death during follow-up.

Results

A total of 1,000 patients with ARDS were included in the analysis. Our study identified two phenotypes of ARDS, and compared patients with Early Negative Fluid Balance (Early NFB) and patients with Persistent-Positive Fluid Balance (Persistent-PFB) accompanied by higher tidal volume, higher static driving pressure, higher mechanical power, and lower PaO2/FiO2, over time during mechanical ventilation. The 28-day mortality was 14.8% in Early NFB and 49.6% in Persistent-PFB (p < 0.001). In the Bayesian joint models, the hazard ratio (HR) of 28-day death for time-varying static driving pressure [HR 1.03 (95% CI 1.01–1.05; p < 0.001)] and mechanical power [HR 1.01 (95% CI 1.002–1.02; p = 0.01)] was significant in patients with Early NFB, but not in patients with Persistent-PFB.

Conclusion

Time-varying intensity of mechanical ventilation was associated with a 28-day mortality of ARDS in a patient with Early NFB but not in patients with Persistent-PFB.
The pathological and therapeutic roles of mesenchymal stem cells in preeclampsia
Authors: Jin Sanshan , Wu Canrong , Chen Ming , Sun Dongyan , Zhang Hua
Published: July 2022

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have made progress in the treatment of ischemic and inflammatory diseases. Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by placenta ischemic and inflammatory injury. Our paper summarized the new role of MSCs in PE pathology and its potency in PE therapy and analyzed its current limitations. Intravenously administered MSCs dominantly distributed in perinatal tissues. There may be additional advantages to using MSCs-based therapies for reproductive disorders. It will provide new ideas for future research in this field.
A randomized triple-blind controlled clinical trial evaluation of sitagliptin in the treatment of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases without diabetes
Authors: Doustmohammadian Azam , Nezhadisalami Ahmad , Safarnezhad Tameshke Fahimeh , Motamed Nima , Maadi Mansooreh , Farahmand Mohammad , Sohrabi Masoudreza , Clark Cain C. T. , Ajdarkosh Hossein , Faraji Amir Hossein , Nikkhah Mehdi , Sobhrakhshankhah Elham , Ebrahimi Ramin , Zamani Farhad
Published: July 2022

The current study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of sitagliptin vs. placebo in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In a triple-blind randomized clinical trial, we assigned 120 eligible subjects with NAFLD to receive daily dosing of 50 mg sitagliptin (n= 60) or the placebo (n= 60) for 56 weeks and lifestyle modification in both groups. Laboratory and anthropometric outcomes were measured, and liver stiffness was assessed using a fibroscan. The primary outcome measures were changes from baseline in fibrosis scores and liver transferases. Out of 120 patients randomized into sitagliptin and placebo groups, 76 patients completed the trial, of whom 44 were in the sitagliptin and 32 in the placebo groups. Patients receiving sitagliptin showed a significant decrease in the fibrosis scores (P= 0.001). The reductions in the alanine aminotransferase (AST) (P= 0.036) and aspartate AST (P< 0.001) levels were also statistically significant. The effect of sitagliptin in reducing fibrosis scores was significantly greater in normal-weight and overweight individuals than in obese individuals (p= 0.036, andp= 0.018, respectively), whereas the effects of sitagliptin on AST levels were greater among overweight/obese patients (p= 0.028, andp= 0.016, respectively). Sitagliptin reduced fibrosis scores and liver enzymes in NAFLD patients after 56 weeks of therapy. The changes in fibrosis scores were more prominent in patients with normal weight and overweight than obese patients, whereas the effects on AST levels were greater among overweight/obese patients. Other randomized trials with larger sample sizes and longer treatment durations may be required before precise results can be reached.

Clinical Trial Registration

[https://www.irct.ir/trial/46140], identifier [IRCT20140430017505N2].
Too much tolerance for hyperoxemia in mechanically ventilated patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia? Report from an Italian intensive care unit
Authors: Damiani Elisa , Casarotta Erika , Carsetti Andrea , Mariotti Giulia , Vannicola Sara , Giorgetti Rachele , Domizi Roberta , Scorcella Claudia , Adrario Erica , Donati Abele
Published: July 2022

Background

In COVID-19 patients requiring mechanical ventilation, the administration of high oxygen (O2) doses for prolonged time periods may be necessary. Although life-saving in most cases, O2 may exert deleterious effects if administered in excessive concentrations. We aimed to describe the prevalence of hyperoxemia and excessive O2 administration in mechanically ventilated patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia and determine whether hyperoxemia is associated with mortality in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or the onset of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).

Materials and methods

Retrospective single-center study on adult patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia requiring invasive mechanical ventilation for ≥48 h. Patients undergoing extracorporeal respiratory support were excluded. We calculated the excess O2 administered based on the ideal arterial O2 tension (PaO2) target of 55–80 mmHg. We defined hyperoxemia as PaO2 > 100 mmHg and hyperoxia + hyperoxemia as an inspired O2 fraction (FiO2) > 60% + PaO2 > 100 mmHg. Risk factors for ICU-mortality and VAP were assessed through multivariate analyses.

Results

One hundred thirty-four patients were included. For each day of mechanical ventilation, each patient received a median excess O2 of 1,121 [829–1,449] L. Hyperoxemia was found in 38 [27–55]% of arterial blood gases, hyperoxia + hyperoxemia in 11 [5–18]% of cases. The FiO2 was not reduced in 69 [62–76]% of cases of hyperoxemia. Adjustments were made more frequently with higher PaO2 or initial FiO2 levels. ICU-mortality was 32%. VAP was diagnosed in 48.5% of patients. Hyperoxemia (OR 1.300 95% CI [1.097–1.542]), time of exposure to hyperoxemia (OR 2.758 [1.406–5.411]), hyperoxia + hyperoxemia (OR 1.144 [1.008–1.298]), and daily excess O2 (OR 1.003 [1.001–1.005]) were associated with higher risk for ICU-mortality, independently of age, Sequential Organ failure Assessment score at ICU-admission and mean PaO2/FiO2. Hyperoxemia (OR 1.033 [1.006–1.061]), time of exposure to hyperoxemia (OR 1.108 [1.018–1.206]), hyperoxia + hyperoxemia (OR 1.038 [1.003–1.075]), and daily excess O2 (OR 1.001 [1.000–1.001]) were identified as risk factors for VAP, independently of body mass index, blood transfusions, days of neuromuscular blocking agents (before VAP), prolonged prone positioning and mean PaO2/FiO2 before VAP.

Conclusion

Excess O2 administration and hyperoxemia were common in mechanically ventilated patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. The exposure to hyperoxemia may be associated with ICU-mortality and greater risk for VAP.
Effect of Cultivated Pastures on Soil Bacterial Communities in the Karst Rocky Desertification Area
Authors: Song Shuzhen , Xiong Kangning , Chi Yongkuan , He Cheng , Fang Jinzhong , He Shuyu
Published: July 2022

Soil bacteria play an important role in regulating the process of vegetation restoration in karst ecosystems. However, the effects of vegetation restoration for different cultivated pastures on soil bacterial communities in the karst rocky desertification regions remain unclear. Therefore, we hypothesized that mixed pasture is the most effective for soil bacterial communities among different vegetation restorations. In this study, we systematically studied the soil properties and soil bacterial communities in four vegetation restoration modes [i.e.,Dactylis glomeratapasture (DG),Lolium perennepasture (LP),Lolium perenne+Trifolium repensmixed pasture (LT), and natural grassland (NG)] by using 16S rDNA Illumina sequencing, combined with six soil indicators and data models. We found that the vegetation restoration of cultivated pastures can improve the soil nutrient content compared with the natural grassland, especially LT treatment. LT treatment significantly increased the MBC content and Shannon index. The vegetation restoration of cultivated pastures significantly increased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, but LT treatment significantly decreased the relative abundance of Acidobacteria. Soil pH and MBC significantly correlated with the alpha diversity of soil bacterial. Soil pH and SOC were the main factors that can affect the soil bacterial community. FAPROTAX analysis showed LT treatment significantly decreased the relative abundance of aerobic chemoheterotrophs. The results showed that the bacterial communities were highly beneficial to soil restoration in the LT treatment, and it confirmed our hypothesis. This finding provides a scientific reference for the restoration of degraded ecosystems in karst rocky desertification areas.
RocTest: A standardized method to assess the performance of root organ cultures in the propagation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Goh Dane , Martin Julien G. A. , Banchini Claudia , MacLean Allyson M. , Stefani Franck
Published: July 2022

Over the past three decades, root organ cultures (ROCs) have been the gold standard method for studying arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) under in vitro conditions, and ROCs derived from various plant species have been used as hosts for AM monoxenic cultures. While there is compelling evidence that host identity can significantly modify AMF fitness, there is currently no standardized methodology to assess the performance of ROCs in the propagation of their fungal symbionts. We describe RocTest, a robust methodological approach that models the propagation of AMF in symbiosis with ROCs. The development of extraradical fungal structures and the pattern of sporulation are modeled using cumulative link mixed models and linear mixed models. We demonstrate functionality of RocTest by evaluating the performance of three species of ROCs (Daucus carota, Medicago truncatula, Nicotiana benthamiana) in the propagation of three species of AMF (Rhizophagus clarus, Rhizophagus irregularis, Glomus sp.). RocTest produces a simple graphical output to assess the performance of ROCs and shows that fungal propagation depends on the three-way interaction between ROC, AMF, and time. RocTest makes it possible to identify the best combination of host/AMF for fungal development and spore production, making it an important asset for germplasm collections and AMF research.
Inhibitory Control in Aging: The Compensation-Related Utilization of Neural Circuits Hypothesis
Authors: Kang Weixi , Wang Junxin , Malvaso Antonio
Published: July 2022

As one of the core executive functions, inhibitory control plays an important role in human life. Inhibitory control refers to the ability to suppress task irrelevant information both internally and externally. Modern cognitive neuroscience has extensively investigated the neural basis of inhibitory control, less is known about the inhibitory control mechanisms in aging. Growing interests in cognitive declines of aging have given raise to the compensation-related utilization of neural circuits hypothesis (CRUNCH). In this review, we survey both behavioral, functional, and structural changes relevant to inhibitory control in aging. In line with CRUNCH, we found that older adults engage additional brain regions than younger adults when performing the same cognitive task, to compensate for declining brain structures and functions. Moreover, we propose CRUNCH could well take functional inhibitory deficits in older adults into account. Finally, we provide three sensible future research directions.
Microbial neuraminidase induces TLR4-dependent long-term immune priming in the brain
Authors: Fernández-Arjona María del Mar , León-Rodríguez Ana , Grondona Jesús M. , López-Ávalos María Dolores
Published: July 2022

Innate immune memory explains the plasticity of immune responses after repeated immune stimulation, leading to either enhanced or suppressed immune responses. This process has been extensively reported in peripheral immune cells and also, although modestly, in the brain. Here we explored two relevant aspects of brain immune priming: its persistence over time and its dependence on TLR receptors. For this purpose, we used an experimental paradigm consisting in applying two inflammatory stimuli three months apart. Wild type, toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 and TLR2 mutant strains were used. The priming stimulus was the intracerebroventricular injection of neuraminidase (an enzyme that is present in various pathogens able to provoke brain infections), which triggers an acute inflammatory process in the brain. The second stimulus was the intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (a TLR4 ligand) or Pam3CSK4 (a TLR2 ligand). One day after the second inflammatory challenge the immune response in the brain was examined. In wild type mice, microglial and astroglial density, as well as the expression of 4 out of 5 pro-inflammatory genes studied (TNFα, IL1β, Gal-3, and NLRP3), were increased in mice that received the double stimulus compared to those exposed only to the second one, which were initially injected with saline instead of neuraminidase. Such enhanced response suggests immune training in the brain, which lasts at least 3 months. On the other hand, TLR2 mutants under the same experimental design displayed an enhanced immune response quite similar to that of wild type mice. However, in TLR4 mutant mice the response after the second immune challenge was largely dampened, indicating the pivotal role of this receptor in the establishment of immune priming. Our results demonstrate that neuraminidase-induced inflammation primes an enhanced immune response in the brain to a subsequent immune challenge, immune training that endures and that is largely dependent on TLR4 receptor.
Incidence and characteristics of stroke in Zanzibar–a hospital-based prospective study in a low-income island population
Authors: Jørgensen Jutta M. Adelin , Christensen Dirk Lund , Nielsen Karoline Kragelund , Sadiq Halima Saleh , Khan Muhammad Yusuf , Jusabani Ahmed M. , Walker Richard
Published: July 2022

Background

Stroke in adults is a critical clinical condition and a leading cause of death and disability globally. Epidemiological data on stroke in sub-Saharan Africa are limited. This study describes incidence rates, stroke types and antecedent factors among patients hospitalized with stroke in Zanzibar.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational study of stroke patients at hospitals in Unguja, Zanzibar. Socioeconomic and demographic data were recorded alongside relevant past medical history, medicine use and risk factors. The modified National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (mNIHSS) was used to assess admission stroke severity and, when possible, stroke was confirmed by neuroimaging.

Results

A total of 869 stroke admissions were observed from 1st October 2019 through 30th September 2020. Age-standardized to the World Health Organization global population, the yearly incidence was 286.8 per 100,000 adult population (95%CI: 272.4–301.9). Among these patients, 720 (82.9%) gave consent to participate in the study. Median age of participants was 62 years (53–70), 377 (52.2%) were women, and 463 (64.3%) had a first-ever stroke. Known stroke risk factors included hypertension in 503 (72.3%) patients, of whom 279 (55.5%) reported regularly using antihypertensive medication, of whom 161 (57.7%) had used this medication within the last week before stroke onset. A total of 460 (63.9%) participants had neuroimaging performed; among these there was evidence of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in 140 (30.4%). Median stroke severity score using mNIHSS was 19 (10–27).

Conclusion

Zanzibar has high incidence of hospitalization for stroke, indicating a very high population incidence of stroke. The proportion of strokes due to ICH is substantially higher than in high-income countries. Most stroke patients had been in contact with health care providers prior to stroke onset and been diagnosed with hypertension. However, few were using antihypertensive medication at the time of stroke onset.

www.ClinicalTrial.gov registration NCT04095806.
Rhythmic auditory stimulation promotes gait recovery in Parkinson's patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ye Xiaofan , Li Ling , He Rong , Jia Yizhen , Poon Waisang
Published: July 2022

Objective

Using rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) to improve gait disturbance in Parkinson's disease (PD) is an available treatment option, yet a consensus on its effectiveness remains controversial. We summarized the effects of RAS on gait, functional activity and quality of life in PD patients through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Medline, and Cochrane Library databases were initially searched to identify relevant literature up to August 2021. Next, the methodological quality of eligible comparative studies was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale. The treatment effects to clinical outcome in relation to gait, motor activities, and quality of life were analyzed.

Results

A total of 18 studies consisted of 774 subjects were included in this meta-analysis. Comparing with the control group, RAS had significantly increased stride length (p < 0.001), accelerated gait speed (p < 0.001), reduced the occurrence of freezing events during walking (P = 0.009), achieved an improvement in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) II (P = 0.030), UPDRS-III (P < 0.001) and Parkinson's Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PDQL) (p = 0.009) scores over an interval of 1–26 months.

Conclusion

In this meta-analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials, we have demonstrated that RAS improves the general motor functions (UPDRS-III), particularly in gait, mobility and quality of life, in patients with Parkinson's disease.
Balance impairment in myotonic dystrophy type 1: Dynamic posturography suggests the coexistence of a proprioceptive and vestibular deficit
Authors: Scarano Stefano , Sansone Valeria Ada , Ferrari Aggradi Carola Rita , Carraro Elena , Tesio Luigi , Amadei Maurizio , Rota Viviana , Zanolini Alice , Caronni Antonio
Published: July 2022

Falls are frequent in Myotonic Dystrophy type 1 (DM1), but the pathophysiology of the balance impairment needs further exploration in this disease. The current work aims to provide a richer understanding of DM1 imbalance. Standing balance in 16 patients and 40 controls was tested in two posturographic tests (EquiTest™). In the Sensory Organization Test (SOT), standstill balance was challenged by combining visual (eyes open vs. closed) and environmental conditions (fixed vs. sway-tuned platform and/or visual surround). In the “react” test, reflexes induced by sudden shifts in the support base were studied. Oscillations of the body centre of mass (COM) were measured. In the SOT, COM sway was larger in patients than controls in any condition, including firm support with eyes open (quiet standing). On sway-tuned support, COM oscillations when standing with closed eyes were larger in patients than controls even after taking into account the oscillations with eyes open. In the “react” paradigm, balance reflexes were delayed in patients. Results in both experimental paradigms (i.e., SOT and react test) are consistent with leg muscle weakness. This, however, is not a sufficient explanation. The SOT test highlighted that patients rely on vision more than controls to maintain static balance. Consistently enough, evidence is provided that an impairment of proprioceptive and vestibular systems contributes to falls in DM1. Rehabilitation programs targeted at reweighting sensory systems may be designed to improve safe mobility in DM1.
Simultaneous electroencephalography-functional magnetic resonance imaging for assessment of human brain function
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Elias , Saharkhiz Saber , Rajabion Lila , Oskouei Homayoun Baghaei , Seraji Masoud , Fayaz Farahnaz , Saliminia Sarah , Sadjadi Seyyed Mostafa , Soltanian-Zadeh Hamid
Published: July 2022

Electroencephalography (EEG) and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) have long been used as tools to examine brain activity. Since both methods are very sensitive to changes of synaptic activity, simultaneous recording of EEG and fMRI can provide both high temporal and spatial resolution. Therefore, the two modalities are now integrated into a hybrid tool, EEG-fMRI, which encapsulates the useful properties of the two. Among other benefits, EEG-fMRI can contribute to a better understanding of brain connectivity and networks. This review lays its focus on the methodologies applied in performing EEG-fMRI studies, namely techniques used for the recording of EEG inside the scanner, artifact removal, and statistical analysis of the fMRI signal. We will investigate simultaneous resting-state and task-based EEG-fMRI studies and discuss their clinical and technological perspectives. Moreover, it is established that the brain regions affected by a task-based neural activity might not be limited to the regions in which they have been initiated. Advanced methods can help reveal the regions responsible for or affected by a developed neural network. Therefore, we have also looked into studies related to characterization of structure and dynamics of brain networks. The reviewed literature suggests that EEG-fMRI can provide valuable complementary information about brain neural networks and functions.
Smallholder Farmers Contribution to Food Production in Nigeria
Authors: Chiaka Jeffrey Chiwuikem , Zhen Lin , Yunfeng Hu , Xiao Yu , Muhirwa Fabien , Lang Tingting
Published: July 2022

Several studies have shown that smallholder farmers produce most of the food in low-income and developing countries and form the backbone of the country’s food supply. This study examines the extent these smallholder farmers in Nigeria can put the country on the path to self-sufficiency and ensure satiety for household food consumption through their local production. The study also examines food production and their resulting yield based on crop production and harvested area, as well as the percentage of crops produced for food or other purposes. The results show that production of rice, sorghum, soybean, cassava, and yam is low; and their corresponding yields are declining, with the exception of maize, although the harvested area increased from 2015 to 2018. As it is, the findings are a clear indication of inadequate per capita food supply due to low food production, especially for cereals. The study suggests closing the yield gap specifically for cereals, limiting post-harvest losses, and finding a sustainable balance between the uses of major food crops for animal feed to reduce pressure on land resource use. The different states production performance requires special attention to harness the agricultural potential of each geopolitical zone. Lastly, dry-season cultivation should be encouraged through irrigation to enable harvesting two-times in a year. The study offers useful approaches to assess the contribution of local farmers to the food supply of a growing population and provides suggestions for the government, stakeholders, and the international community willing to collaborate and invest in the agricultural sector.
Cardiovascular risk among 6-8-year-old children living in urban and rural communities in Ecuador: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Vargas-Rosvik Signe , Lazo-Verdugo Nelly , Escandón Samuel , Ochoa-Avilés Cristina , Baldeón-Rojas Lucy , Ochoa-Avilés Angélica
Published: July 2022

Cardiovascular diseases have their origins in childhood. At least 20% of children and adolescents in Latin America are overweight or obese. However, little is known regarding the cardiovascular risk of young children living in the region. This paper aims to identify associations between socio-demographics, adiposity, and dietary intake with cardiometabolic risk among children between 6- and 8-years old living in urban and rural Andean regions of Ecuador. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 267 children attending elementary schools between February and August 2018. Sociodemographic data were collected using a structured interview. Bodyweight, height, and waist circumference were measured in duplicate; blood samples were taken after overnight fasting to determine blood lipids, hepatic enzymes, and adipokines; food intake data was assessed by two 24-h recalls administered to the guardians. Associations between cardiometabolic risk (i.e., blood lipids, hepatic enzymes, and adipokines) with sociodemographic characteristics, dietary intake, and waist circumference were tested using multiple hierarchical regression models. Twenty-nine percent of the children were overweight or obese, 12% had low HDL levels, and over 18% had high levels of LDL and triglycerides. Children living in the urban region had lower levels of HDL (β−4.07 mg/dL; 95% CI: −7.00; −1.15; P = 0.007) but higher levels of LDL cholesterol (β 8.52 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1.38; 15.66; P = 0.019). Hepatic enzymes were also higher among urban children (SGOT: β% 22.13; 95% CI: 17.33; 26.93; P < 0.001; SGPT: β 0.84 U/L; 95% CI: 0.09; 1.59; P = 0.028). Leptin blood levels were higher (β% 29.27; 95% CI: 3.57; 54.97; P = 0.026), meanwhile adiponectin plasma concentrations were lower among urban children (β%−103.24; 95% CI: −58.9; −147.58; P = < 0.001). Fiber intake was inversely associated with total cholesterol (β−9.27 mg/dL; 95% CI –18.09; −0.45; P = 0.040) and LDL cholesterol blood levels (β−9.99 mg/dL; 95% CI: −18.22; −1.75; P = 0.018). Our findings demonstrate that young children are at high cardiovascular risk; if no actions are taken, the burden of non-communicable diseases will be substantial. The differences in risk between rural and urban areas are evident; urbanization might predispose children to a different reality and, in most cases, result in poor habits.
Polyphenol-rich oolong tea alleviates obesity and modulates gut microbiota in high-fat diet-fed mice
Authors: Li Ang , Wang Jin , Kou Ruixin , Chen Mengshan , Zhang Bowei , Zhang Yan , Liu Jingmin , Xing Xiaolong , Peng Bo , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2022

Obesity is a major public health issue worldwide. Oolong tea (OT), which is partially fermented from Camellia sinensis leaves, has proven health benefits and potential preventive applications in multiple studies. However, research on the role of OT in obesity prevention and potential mechanisms is still limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the modulatory effects of OT intervention on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and gut microbiota dysbiosis using an obese mouse model. Our results showed that 8-week OT supplementation with 93.94% polyphenols significantly decreased body weight gain, adipose tissue mass, and serum levels of triglyceride (2.60 mmol/L), cholesterol (5.49 mmol/L), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (0.61 mmol/L) in HFD-fed mice. Meanwhile, OT intervention was observed to improve fat accumulation, hepatic damage, glucose intolerance, and endotoxemia and alleviate inflammation by decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory factors. OT also upregulated the expression of genes including Srebf1, Ppara, Lxra, Pgc1a, and Hsl and downregulated the expression of genes including Leptin, Il-6, and Il-1b. In addition, the gut dysbiosis characterized by decreased flora diversity and increased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio in obese mice was recovered by OT intervention. Certain differentially abundant microbes caused by HFD feeding, including Enterococcus, Intestinimonas, Blautia, and Bilophila, were also improved by OT treatment. This study demonstrated that OT, as a novel resource of dietary polyphenols, exhibited a protective effect on HFD-induced obesity and gut microbiota disorder.
Dietary adaptation for weight loss maintenance at Yale (DAWLY): Protocol and predictions for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fang Xi , Davis Xue , Flack Kyle D. , Duncan Chavonn , Li Fangyong , White Marney , Grilo Carlos , Small Dana M.
Published: July 2022

Background

Current therapies for obesity treatment are effective at producing short-term weight loss, but weight loss maintenance remains a significant challenge. Here we investigate the impact of pre-intervention dietary fat intake on the efficacy of a dietary supplement to support weight loss maintenance. Preclinical work demonstrates that a vagal afferent pathway critical for sensing dietary lipids is blunted by a high-fat diet (HFD), resulting in a reduced preference for a low-fat emulsion and severe blunting of the dopamine (DA) response to the gastric infusion of lipids. Infusion of the gut lipid messenger oleoylethanolamide (OEA), which is also depleted by HFD, immediately reverses this DA blunting and restores preference for the low-fat emulsion. Studies of OEA supplementation for weight loss in humans have had limited success. Given the strong effect of HFD on this pathway, we designed a study to test whether the efficacy of OEA as a weight loss treatment is related to pre-intervention habitual intake of dietary fat.

Methods/Design

We employed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which 100 adults with overweight/obesity (OW/OB) were randomized to receive either OEA or placebo daily for 16 months. Following a baseline evaluation of diet, metabolic health, adiposity, and brain response to a palatable an energy dense food, participants in both groups underwent a 4-month behavioral weight loss intervention (LEARN®) followed by a 1-year maintenance period. The study aims are to (1) determine if pre-intervention dietary fat intake moderates the ability of OEA to improve weight loss and weight loss maintenance after a gold standard behavioral weight loss treatment; (2) identify biomarkers that predict outcome and optimize a stratification strategy; and (3) test a model underlying OEA’s effectiveness.

Discussion

Focusing on interventions that target the gut-brain axis is supported by mounting evidence for the role of gut-brain signaling in food choice and the modulation of this circuit by diet. If successful, this work will provide support for targeting the gut-brain pathway for weight loss maintenance using a precision medicine approach that is easy and inexpensive to implement.

Clinical Trial Registration

[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT04614233].
Structural characterization and bioactivity evaluation of water-extractable polysaccharides from chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) seeds
Authors: Zhu Yingying , Dun Baoqing , Shi Zhenxing , Wang Yuanji , Wu Li , Yao Yang
Published: July 2022

Two water-extractable polysaccharide fractions designated as CWP (7. 37 × 105 Da) and CWP-0.2 (1.58 × 104 Da) were isolated and purified from chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) seeds. The chemical structure of the two polysaccharides was characterized by various methods. Monosaccharide composition and methylation analysis showed that CWP was composed of Man and Glc in a molar ratio of 44.6:55.4, and CWP-0.2 was composed of Rha, Ara, Man, Glc, and Gal in a molar ratio of 10.6:23.3:5.2:4.9:56. Further structural characterization indicated that the main chain connection of CWP was → (2-β-d-Fruf-1) n →, and the main chain connection of CWP-0.2 was explored as → 2,4)-α-l-Rhap-(1 → 3)-α-d-Galp-(1 → with the branched chain of → 2,4)-α-l-Rhap-(1 → o-4. Besides, both CWP and CWP-0.2 had antioxidant and immunoregulatory activity in vitro, through scavenging DPPH· and ABTS·+ as well as stimulating production of NO, IL-6, TNF-α and MCP-1 in RAW 264.7 macrophages. CWP-0.2 revealed significantly higher bioactivity than CWP.
The effect of intravenous vitamin C on clinical outcomes in patients with sepsis or septic shock: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhu Huiyan , Xu Xiaoya , Zhang Kai , Ye Qiaoping
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Vitamin C deficiency is common among patients with sepsis and has been associated with poor clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, the effect of intravenous (IV) vitamin C for the treatment of sepsis remains controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of IV vitamin C in patients with sepsis or septic shock.

Methods

Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) were searched from inception through May 25, 2022 for randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of IV vitamin C treatment in patients with sepsis. The primary outcome was short-term mortality, and secondary outcomes including the duration of vasopressor, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score after vitamin C treatment. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the type of disease, dose and duration of IV vitamin C.

Results

A total of 10 studies were included, with a total sample of 755 septic patients. The IV vitamin C was associated with a significant reduction in the short-term mortality (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.37–0.69, I2 = 0%) and duration of vasopressor (MD −27.88, 95% CI −49.84 to −5.92, I2 = 95%). The length of ICU stay (MD −0.68, 95% CI −2.13 to 0.78, I2 = 74%) and SOFA score (MD −0.05, 95% CI −1.69 to 1.58, I2 = 86%) were not significantly different between two groups.

Conclusion

In patients with sepsis or septic shock, the IV vitamin C reduced the short-term mortality rate and duration of vasopressor, with no effect on the length of ICU stay and SOFA score. Further trials are required to explore the optimal dosage and duration of IV vitamin C.

Systematic Review Registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-6-0013/, identifier INPLASY202260013.
Cervical and endometrial cancers of intestinal origin diagnosed 18 years after vaginal replacement with a sigmoid colon segment: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Sun Xiao-fei , Miao Xin-xin , Li Bao-xuan , Wang Yu
Published: July 2022

Background

Sigmoid colpoplasty is a surgical method for the treatment of vagina agenesis. Malignant tumors of neovaginas derived from sigmoid colons are rare.

Case presentation

We report a 33-year-old woman who underwent sigmoid colpoplasty for vaginal agenesis and presented 18 years later with vaginal bleeding. Examination revealed cancer of the neovagina with involvement of the cervix and endometrium. The patient was administered four cycles of chemotherapy because she refused surgery.

Conclusions

Patients with a history of colpoplasty should undergo long-term comprehensive testing after reconstruction, including regular gynecological, colposcopic, and gastrointestinal examinations. In patients with cancer of the neovagina, a comprehensive treatment plan should be developed in consultation with gynecologists and surgeons. There is no standard treatment, although surgery plus chemotherapy or radiotherapy appears to be effective.
Case report: Conversion therapy for advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma using PD-1 inhibitor plus S-1 and nab-paclitaxel
Authors: Li Xiaocheng , Jiang Zhiyang , Wu Yongjuan , Gong Wei , Liao Xiaofeng , Li Xiaogang
Published: July 2022

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a highly malignant hepatobiliary tumor with a high rate of advanced disease at initial presentation. Conversion into resectable iCCA is important for improving the prognosis. Immunotherapy-based regimens are being increasingly used for treating advanced iCCA in recent years. However, the use of combined chemotherapy and immunotherapy for conversion has rarely been reported. The aim of this report was to present the outcomes of a 52-year-old female patient with IIIB iCCA. The patient was treated with a programmed cell death protein-1 inhibitor plus S-1 and nab-paclitaxel. The postoperative histopathological results indicated pathologic complete response after six cycles of systematic treatment. The patient is currently disease-free for one year.