bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
γδ T-cells in human malignancies: insights from single-cell studies and analytical considerations
Authors: Ng Jeremy Wee Kiat , Cheung Alice Man Sze
Published: August 2024

γδ T-cells are a rare population of T-cells with both adaptive and innate-like properties. Despite their low prevalence, they have been found to be implicated various human diseases. γδ T-cell infiltration has been associated with improved clinical outcomes in solid cancers, prompting renewed interest in understanding their biology. To date, their biology remains elusive due to their low prevalence. The introduction of high-resolution single-cell sequencing has allowed various groups to characterize key effector subsets in various contexts, as well as begin to elucidate key regulatory mechanisms directing the differentiation and activity of these cells. In this review, we will review some of insights obtained from single-cell studies of γδ T-cells across various malignancies and highlight some important questions that remain unaddressed.
Assessment of h-index and associated demographic and academic parameters for academic hematologists in Canada
Authors: Ordaz Daniel Josué Guerra , Roy Jean , Ahmad Imran , Kaouache Mohammed , Ramchatesingh Brandon , Whitelaw Sera , Nikonova Anna , Bredeson Chris , Litvinov Ivan V.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The h-index measures researchers’ productivity by assessing simultaneously the number of publications and citations. We aimed to assess the factors that could influence h-index for hematologists practicing in academic institutions in Canada.

Methods

We identified universities with a hematology residency training programs/fellowships using the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) website. We obtained the listing of faculty, sex, and academic ranks by consulting faculty directories or by contacting respective departments/universities, when directories were unavailable or incomplete. For each faculty member, we obtained years since Royal College of Physicians’ and Surgeons of Canada certification or equivalent, receipt of Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR) grants within the last 5 years, attainment of graduate degrees (M.Sc., Ph.D., other), and the h-index.

Results

The data included information collected from 372 individuals (171 females) across Canada (Atlantic Provinces: 13; Quebec: 89; Ontario: 182; Prairie Provinces: 59; British Columbia: 29). Univariate analysis showed that male sex, practicing in British Columbia, longer duration since specialty certification, completion of an M.Sc. or a Ph.D. degree, attaining a higher academic rank and receiving CIHR funding were associated with higher h-index. The results of the univariate analysis were concordant with the multivariate analysis, except that practicing in Ontario was also associated with higher h-index.

Conclusion

This study provides details on the h-index curve/parameters for academic productivity of hematologists in Canada. Importantly, based on multivariate analysis, higher h-index was associated with male sex, location of practice, years since certification, attainment of M.Sc. or Ph.D. degrees, academic rank, and recent CIHR funding.
Coevolution of specific gut microbiota of Min pig with host cold adaptation through enhanced vitamin B1 synthesis
Authors: Chang Yang , Zhang Ziwen , Cai Jiancheng , Wang Chunan , Liu Di , Liu Zhonghua , Xu Chunzhu
Published: August 2024

Min pigs exhibit remarkable cold tolerance, where vitamin B1 synthesis by gut microbiota is crucial for the host's energy metabolism. However, the role of this synthesis in cold adaptation of Min pigs are not yet fully understood. This study utilized 16S rRNA amplicon and metagenomic sequencing to examine seasonal variations in the gut microbiota of Min pigs. Results indicated a significant rise in microbial diversity in winter, with the Bacteroidetes group being the most notably increased. The vitamin B1 biosynthetic pathway was significantly enriched during winter, with six significantly upregulated genes (ThiC, ThiD, ThiE, ThiG, ThiH, and ThiL) showing strong evidence of purifying selection. Among the six vitamin B1 synthesis genes significantly upregulated during winter, the increase was mainly due to a marked elevation in several sequences from specific microbial species. Binding energy analysis revealed that, except for ThiL, the average substrate binding energy of the top 10 sequences with the largest seasonal differences was significantly lower than those of the 10 sequences with the smallest differences. Furthermore, most of these sequences were uniquely prevalent in Min pigs and were not found in the homologous sequences of Duroc pigs. Bacteroidetes and Bacteroidales were identified as the primary contributors to these gene sequences. This research provides valuable insights for developing innovative cold-resistant feed and probiotics.
Bursting gamma oscillations in neural mass models
Authors: Nandi Manoj Kumar , Valla Michele , di Volo Matteo
Published: August 2024

Gamma oscillations (30–120 Hz) in the brain are not periodic cycles, but they typically appear in short-time windows, often called oscillatory bursts. While the origin of this bursting phenomenon is still unclear, some recent studies hypothesize its origin in the external or endogenous noise of neural networks. We demonstrate that an exact neural mass model of excitatory and inhibitory quadratic-integrate and fire-spiking neurons theoretically predicts the emergence of a different regime of intrinsic bursting gamma (IBG) oscillations without any noise source, a phenomenon due to collective chaos. This regime is indeed observed in the direct simulation of spiking neurons, characterized by highly irregular spiking activity. IBG oscillations are distinguished by higher phase-amplitude coupling to slower theta oscillations concerning noise-induced bursting oscillations, thus indicating an increased capacity for information transfer between brain regions. We demonstrate that this phenomenon is present in both globally coupled and sparse networks of spiking neurons. These results propose a new mechanism for gamma oscillatory activity, suggesting deterministic collective chaos as a good candidate for the origin of gamma bursts.
A predictive propensity measure to enter REM sleep
Authors: Ginsberg Alexander G. , Cruz Madelyn Esther C. , Weber Franz , Booth Victoria , Diniz Behn Cecilia G.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

During sleep periods, most mammals alternate multiple times between rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep and non-REM (NREM) sleep. A common theory proposes that these transitions are governed by an “hourglass-like” homeostatic need to enter REM sleep that accumulates during the inter-REM interval and partially discharges during REM sleep. However, markers or mechanisms for REM homeostatic pressure remain undetermined. Recently, an analysis of sleep in mice demonstrated that the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the amount of NREM sleep between REM bouts correlates with REM bout duration, suggesting that time in NREM sleep influences REM sleep need. Here, we build on those results and construct a predictive measure for the propensity to enter REM sleep as a function of time in NREM sleep since the previous REM episode.

Methods

The REM propensity measure is precisely defined as the probability to enter REM sleep before the accumulation of an additional pre-specified amount of NREM sleep.

Results

Analyzing spontaneous sleep in mice, we find that, as NREM sleep accumulates between REM bouts, the REM propensity exhibits a peak value and then decays to zero with further NREM accumulation. We show that the REM propensity at REM onset predicts features of the subsequent REM bout under certain conditions. Specifically, during the light phase and for REM propensities occurring before the peak in propensity, the REM propensity at REM onset is correlated with REM bout duration, and with the probability of the occurrence of a short REM cycle called a sequential REM cycle. Further, we also find that proportionally more REM sleep occurs during sequential REM cycles, supporting a correlation between high values of our REM propensity measure and high REM sleep need.

Discussion

These results support the theory that a homeostatic need to enter REM sleep accrues during NREM sleep, but only for a limited range of NREM sleep accumulation.
Effect of ultrasonic treatment on the oral processing characteristics of Mianning ham
Authors: He Jiaju , Wang Wenli , Hao Mai , Huang Yue , CHen Lin
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the oral processing characteristics of Mianning ham was investigated. A sensory evaluation team of 10 evaluators with food professional background was involved in food mastication and dough collection. Oral processing analysis of ultrasonically treated hams was performed using particle distribution analysis, Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (SPME-GC–MS), electronic nose, and dynamic dominant sensory attribute testing. The results showed that compared with the control group, the chewing time and the number of chewing times of the ultrasonically treated hams during oral processing were significantly increased, the salivary content in the ham eating dough was significantly reduced, the types and contents of flavor substances were significantly increased, and the ultrasonic treatment significantly reduced the dominant organoleptic attributes such as saltiness and sourness of the Mianning hams. This paper takes Mianning ham bolus as the research object, analyzes the influence of ultrasonic treatment on the flavor perception of Mianning ham, and provides a theoretical basis for the optimization of ham back-end processing technology.
Effects of the supernatant of Chlorella vulgaris cultivated under different culture modes on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) growth
Authors: Dai Lin , Yu Peng , Ma Pengyao , Chen Cheng , Ma Jun , Zhang Jinli , Huang Bo , Xin Zhikun , Zheng Xufan , Tang Tao
Published: August 2024

CO2 capture by microalgae is a feasible strategy to reduce CO2 emissions. However, large amounts of cell-free supernatant will be produced after microalgal harvesting, which may be harmful to the environment if it is disorderly discharged. In this study, Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) was cultivated under three common cultivation modes (autotrophic culture (AC), heterotrophic culture (HC) and mixotrophic culture (MC)), and the obtained supernatant was used as fertilizer to investigate its effect on the growth of lettuce. The biomass concentration of C. vulgaris cultivated under MC and HC was 3.25 and 2.59 times that of under AC, respectively. The contents of macronutrients in supernatant obtained from AC were higher than those of MC and HC. However, the contents of amino acids and hormones in supernatant obtained from MC and HC were higher than those of AC. The fresh shoot weight, fresh root weight and root length of lettuce treated with supernatant were significantly higher than that of control treatment. In addition, the contents of chlorophyll, soluble sugar and soluble protein in lettuce treated with supernatant were also higher than that of control treatment. However, the contents of nitrate in lettuce treated with supernatant was lower than that of control treatment. These results showed that the supernatant could promote the growth of lettuce and was a potential of fertilizer for crop planting.
Nutrient analysis of three low-carbohydrate diets differing in carbohydrate content
Authors: Banner Lani , Rice Bradley Beth H. , Clinthorne Jonathan
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Low-carbohydrate diets are increasing in popularity. Despite clinical evidence demonstrating their safety and efficacy, concerns regarding the nutrient adequacy of low-carbohydrate diets persist. The aims of this study were to assess the nutrient adequacy of three 7-day meal plans that delivered 20 (VLCD20), 40 (VLCD40), and 100 (LCD100) grams of net carbohydrate per day respectively.

Methods

Nutrient analyses were conducted using USDA Food Data Central.

Results

All three low-carbohydrate meal plans exceeded recommendations for vitamins A, C, D, E, K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, folate and B12 in males and females 31–70 years and exceeded calcium recommendations for adults 31–50 years but remained below the Tolerable Upper Intake Level. VLCD40 and LCD100 met or exceeded fiber recommendations for females ages 31–70 years and were adequate for males 51–70 years. None of the meal plans contributed meaningful amounts of added sugar. The plans exceeded the Recommended Dietary Allowance for protein for adults ages 31–70 years of age but were within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range of 10–35% of energy. The plans slightly exceeded recommendations for saturated fat and sodium but were lower in these nutrients than the average American diet and had more favorable omega-6 to omega-3 and sodium to potassium ratios than is typical. All three meals plans met or exceeded the Estimated Average Requirement for micronutrients in females ages 31–50 years, the population group most likely to consume low-carbohydrate diets.

Discussion

Well-constructed low-carbohydrate meal plans can be nutritionally adequate in adults.
Potential causal link between dietary intake and epilepsy: a bidirectional and multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lai Shenglong , Xing Yazhou , Li Haiyang , Wu Du , Wang Lin , Liang Qinghua
Published: August 2024

Background

Epilepsy is a common neurological disease, and dietary intake has been suggested as a potential modifiable risk factor. However, the causality of associations between dietary intake and epilepsy remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the potential causal relationships between various dietary intakes and epilepsy using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

A two-sample MR approach was employed, utilizing genetic variants associated with dietary factors as instrumental variables (IVs). Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) summary data on dietary intakes were obtained from the UK Biobank, while data on epilepsy were sourced from the European Bioinformatics Institute. The number of genetic variants used as IVs varied for each dietary factor. Inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger, and Bayesian weighted MR (BWMR) methods were used to assess causality. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was performed, adjusting for potential confounders. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the robustness of the findings.

Results

The study identified a significant inverse association between non-oily fish intake and epilepsy risk (OR = 0.281, 95% CI: 0.099–0.801, p = 0.018) using the IVW method. This finding was corroborated by the BWMR analysis (OR = 0.277, 95% CI: 0.094–0.814, p = 0.020). The MVMR analysis further confirmed the protective effect of non-oily fish intake on epilepsy risk after adjusting for potential confounders. In the reverse MR analysis, epilepsy was associated with reduced water intake (OR = 0.989, 95% CI: 0.980–0.997, p = 0.011).

Conclusion

The present MR study provides evidence of a causal, protective relationship between non-oily fish intake and reduced epilepsy risk. Additionally, the findings suggest that epilepsy may influence water intake patterns. These results contribute to our understanding of the role of dietary factors in epilepsy and may inform dietary recommendations for the management and prevention of this condition.
Clinical value of ACR O-RADS combined with CA125 in the risk stratification of adnexal masses
Authors: Pan Rui-Ke , Zhang Shu-Qin , Zhang Xian-Ya , Xu Tong , Cui Xin-Wu , Li Ran , Yu Ming , Zhang Bo
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To develop a combined diagnostic model integrating the subclassification of the 2022 version of the American College of Radiology (ACR) Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) with carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) and to validate whether the combined model can offer superior diagnostic efficacy than O-RADS alone in assessing adnexal malignancy risk.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on 593 patients with adnexal masses (AMs), and the pathological and clinical data were included. According to the large differences in malignancy risk indices for different image features in O-RADS category 4, the lesions were categorized into groups A and B. A new diagnostic criterion was developed. Lesions identified as category 1, 2, 3, or 4A with a CA125 level below 35 U/ml were classified as benign. Lesions identified as category 4A with a CA125 level more than or equal to 35 U/ml and lesions with a category of 4B and 5 were classified as malignant. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC) of O-RADS (v2022), CA125, and the combined model in the diagnosis of AMs were calculated and compared.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, accuracy, and AUCs of the combined model were 92.4%, 96.5%, 80.2%, 98.8%, 94.1%, and 0.945, respectively. The specificity, PPV, accuracy, and AUC of the combined model were significantly higher than those of O-RADS alone (all P < 0.01). In addition, both models had acceptable sensitivity and NPV, but there were no significant differences among them (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The combined model integrating O-RADS subclassification with CA125 could improve the specificity and PPV in diagnosing malignant AMs. It could be a valuable tool in the clinical application of risk stratification of AMs.
AI-enhanced diagnostic model for pulmonary nodule classification
Authors: Chen Jifei , Ming Moyu , Huang Shuangping , Wei Xuan , Wu Jinyan , Zhou Sufang , Ling Zhougui
Published: August 2024

Background

The identification of benign and malignant pulmonary nodules (BPN and MPN) can significantly reduce mortality. However, a reliable and validated diagnostic model for clinical decision-making is still lacking.

Methods

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and electro chemiluminescent immunoassay were utilized to determine the serum concentrations of 7AABs (p53, GAGE7, PGP9.5, CAGE, MAGEA1, SOX2, GBU4-5), and 4TTMs (CYFR21, CEA, NSE and SCC) in 260 participants (72 BPNs and 188 early-stage MPNs), respectively. The malignancy probability was calculated using Artificial intelligence pulmonary nodule auxiliary diagnosis system, or Mayo model. Along with age, sex, smoking history and nodule size, 18 variables were enrolled for model development. Baseline comparison, univariate ROC analysis, variable correlation analysis, lasso regression, univariate and stepwise logistic regression, and decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to reduce and screen variables. A nomogram and DCA were built for model construction and clinical use. Training (60%) and validation (40%) cohorts were used to for model validation.

Results

Age, CYFRA21_1, AI, PGP9.5, GAGE7, and GBU4_5 was screened out from 18 variables and utilized to establish the regression model for identifying BPN and early-stage MPN, as well as nomogram and DCA for clinical practical use. The AUC of the nomogram in the training and validation cohorts were 0.884 and 0.820, respectively. Moreover, the calibration curve showed high coherence between the predicted and actual probability.

Conclusion

This diagnostic model and DCA could provide evidence for upgrading or maintaining the current clinical decision based on malignancy probability stratification. It enables low and moderate risk or ambiguous patients to benefit from more precise clinical decision stratification, more timely detection of malignant nodules, and early treatment.
A model based on C-TIRADS combined with SWE for predicting Bethesda I thyroid nodules
Authors: Wei An , Tang Yu-Long , Tang Shi-Chu , Zhang Xian-Ya , Ren Jia-Yu , Shi Long , Cui Xin-Wu , Zhang Chao-Xue
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the performance of a model based on Chinese Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data Systems (C-TIRADS), clinical characteristics, and shear wave elastography (SWE) for the prediction of Bethesda I thyroid nodules before fine needle aspiration (FNA).

Materials and methods

A total of 267 thyroid nodules from 267 patients were enrolled. Ultrasound and SWE were performed for all nodules before FNA. The nodules were scored according to the 2020 C-TIRADS, and the ultrasound and SWE characteristics of Bethesda I and non-I thyroid nodules were compared. The independent predictors were determined by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis. A predictive model was established based on independent predictors, and the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) of the independent predictors were compared with that of the model.

Results

Our study found that the maximum diameter of nodules that ranged from 15 to 20 mm, the C-TIRADS category <4C, and Emax <52.5 kPa were independent predictors for Bethesda I thyroid nodules. Based on multiple logistic regression, a predictive model was established: Logit (p) = -3.491 + 1.630 × maximum diameter + 1.719 × C-TIRADS category + 1.046 × Emax (kPa). The AUC of the model was 0.769 (95% CI: 0.700–0.838), which was significantly higher than that of the independent predictors alone.

Conclusion

We developed a predictive model for predicting Bethesda I thyroid nodules. It might be beneficial to the clinical optimization of FNA strategy in advance and to improve the accurate diagnostic rate of the first FNA, reducing repeated FNA.
PD-L1 expression and correlation with outcome in muscle-invasive and metastatic urothelial carcinoma: review and critical discussion
Authors: El Saadany Tämer , Lorch Anja , Milowsky Matthew I. , Vogl Ursula Maria , Cathomas Richard
Published: August 2024

Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors including atezolizumab, pembrolizumab and nivolumab has become an essential pillar in the management of muscle invasive and metastatic urothelial carcinoma. The field has evolved quickly in the past few years and several early beliefs have recently been upended. One such belief relates to the predictive value of PD-L1 expression based on immunohistochemistry. Nevertheless, requirements for PD-L1 expression from regulatory bodies still restrict the use of checkpoint inhibitors in urothelial carcinoma. This article provides a critical review of the available data from the registration trials on which the current regulations have been based with the conclusion that a review of the current approval status incorporating PD-1 expression is warranted.
Anatomical classification of advanced biliary tract cancer predicts programmed cell death protein 1 blockade efficacy
Authors: Huang Lingli , Wang Fang , Wang Fenghua , Jiang Qi , Huang Jinsheng , Li Xujia , Guo Guifang
Published: August 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)-based immunotherapy has inspired new hope for advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) treatment; however, there are no prior studies that primarily focus on different anatomical types of unresectable BTCs reacting differently to ICB.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data on advanced BTC patients who received anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (anti-PD1) therapy from two affiliated hospitals of Sun Yat-Sen university. The effects of anti-PD1 were compared for different anatomical sites. The GSE32225 and GSE132305 datasets were used to further analyze differences in the immune microenvironments between intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECC).

Results

A total of 198 advanced BTC patients were enrolled in this study, comprising 142 patients with ICC and 56 with other cancer types (“Others” group), including ECC and gallbladder cancer. In the anti-PD1 treated patients, the ICC group (n = 90) achieved longer median progression-free survival (mPFS) (9.5 vs. 6.2 months, p = 0.02) and median overall survival (mOS) (15.1 vs. 10.7 months, p = 0.02) than the Others group (n = 26). However, chemotherapy did not show different effects between the two groups (mOS: 10.6 vs. 12.1 months, p = 0.20; mPFS: 4.9 vs. 5.7 months, p = 0.83). For the first-line anti-PD1 therapy, the ICC group (n = 70) achieved higher mOS (16.0 vs. 11.8 months, p = 0.04) than the Others group (n = 19). Moreover, most chemokines, chemokine receptors, major histocompatibility complex molecules, immunostimulators, and immunoinhibitors were stronger in ICC than ECC; furthermore, CD8+ T cells and M1 macrophages were higher in ICC than ECC for most algorithms. The immune differential genes were mainly enriched in antigen processing and presentation as well as the cytokine receptors.

Conclusions

This study shows that the efficacy of anti-PD1 therapy was higher in ICC than in other types of BTCs. Differences in the immune-related molecules and cells between ICC and ECC indicate that ICC could benefit more from immunotherapy.
Multiple site inflammation and acute kidney injury in crush syndrome
Authors: Miyauchi Hiroaki , Okubo Koshu , Iida Kiriko , Kawakami Hiroshi , Takayama Kentaro , Hayashi Yoshio , Haruta Junji , Sasaki Junichi , Hayashi Kaori , Hirahashi Junichi
Published: August 2024

Crush syndrome, which frequently occurs in earthquake disasters, often leads to rhabdomyolysis induced acute kidney injury (RIAKI). Recent findings indicate that systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) exacerbates muscle collapse, contributing to RIAKI. The purpose of this study is to investigate the involvement of multiple site inflammation, including intraperitoneal, in crush syndrome. In a mouse model of RIAKI, elevated levels of inflammatory mediators such as TNFα, IL-6, myoglobin, and dsDNA were observed in serum and the peritoneal cavity, peaking earlier in the intraperitoneal cavity than in serum or urine. Our previously developed novel peptide inhibiting leukocyte extracellular traps was administered intraperitoneally and blocked all of these mediators in the intraperitoneal cavity and serum, ameliorating muscle damage and consequent RIAKI. Although further studies are needed to determine whether intraperitoneal inflammation associated with muscle collapse can lead to systemic inflammation, resulting in more severe and prolonged muscle damage and renal injury, early suppression of multiple site inflammation, including intraperitoneal, might be an effective therapeutic target.
The polychromatic retrigger: a new tool to mitigate pileup in spectral photon-counting computed-tomography
Authors: Amato Carlo , Disch Christian , Zambon Pietro
Published: August 2024

High photon rates, like the ones required in clinical computed tomography, can generate pulse pileup in photon-counting detectors, and in extreme cases induce system paralysis. The instant retrigger technology has been developed by DECTRIS Ltd. to counteract such phenomena, effectively making detectors non-paralyzable. The instant retrigger behavior is regulated by a quantity named retrigger time, which originally was the same for all the energy thresholds of the detector. We developed a new ASIC that features an improved version of the instant retrigger (polychromatic retrigger) that allows different retrigger times for each of the four energy thresholds. In this work, we investigate how this feature can be exploited in computed tomography to mitigate pileup artifacts. Using a Monte Carlo method, we modeled a full computed tomography system with four energy thresholds (20, 50, 70 and 90 keV), and we simulated head scans from low (1×107 cps/mm2) to high (1×109 cps/mm2) photon count rates for different values of the retrigger time. The quality of the resulting images generally degrades when increasing the photon rates (pileup artifacts) and, at the same time, it becomes strongly dependent on the retrigger time. We show how, even at high incoming rates, it is possible to identify for each energy threshold a retrigger time value that restores almost completely the image quality obtained in the low count-rate scenario. The analysis indicates that the higher the energy threshold, the longer the retrigger time has to be set.
Temporal expression of mitochondrial life cycle markers during acute and chronic overload of rat plantaris muscles
Authors: Hyatt Jon-Philippe K. , Lu Emilie J. , McCall Gary E.
Published: August 2024

Skeletal muscle hypertrophy is generally associated with a fast-to-slow phenotypic adaptation in both human and rodent models. Paradoxically, this phenotypic shift is not paralleled by a concomitant increase in mitochondrial content and aerobic markers that would be expected to accompany a slow muscle phenotype. To understand the temporal response of the mitochondrial life cycle (i.e., biogenesis, oxidative phosphorylation, fission/fusion, and mitophagy/autophagy) to hypertrophic stimuli, in this study, we used the functional overload (FO) model in adult female rats and examined the plantaris muscle responses at 1 and 10 weeks. As expected, the absolute plantaris muscle mass increased by ∼12 and 26% at 1 and 10 weeks following the FO procedure, respectively. Myosin heavy-chain isoform types I and IIa significantly increased by 116% and 17%, respectively, in 10-week FO plantaris muscles. Although there was a general increase in protein markers associated with mitochondrial biogenesis in acute FO muscles, this response was unexpectedly sustained under 10-week FO conditions after muscle hypertrophy begins to plateau. Furthermore, the early increase in mito/autophagy markers observed under acute FO conditions was normalized by 10 weeks, suggesting a cellular environment favoring mitochondrial biogenesis to accommodate the aerobic demands of the plantaris muscle. We also observed a significant increase in the expression of mitochondrial-, but not nuclear-, encoded oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) proteins and peptides (i.e., humanin and MOTS-c) under chronic, but not acute, FO conditions. Taken together, the temporal response of markers related to the mitochondrial life cycle indicates a pattern of promoting biogenesis and mitochondrial protein expression to support the energy demands and/or enhanced neural recruitment of chronically overloaded skeletal muscle.
Nitrogen enrichment enhances the negative top–down effect on plant functional traits
Authors: Zhang Dongmei , Zhang Liwen , Lan Siqun , Zhao Lianjun , Han Guangxuan , Chen Lin
Published: August 2024

Eutrophication resulting from anthropogenic activities has been recognized as a significant driver of changes in ecosystem functioning. Furthermore, it may exacerbate the top–down effect and thus exert an important impact on plant growth. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a 3-year manipulative field experiment to investigate the impacts of nitrogen addition and crab herbivory on the growth of Phragmites australis in the salt marsh of the Yellow River Delta. The results demonstrated that a 3-year nitrogen addition can significantly increase the total nitrogen and carbon content of P. australis leaves, thereby enhancing their nutritional value and palatability, as well as increasing the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs. Therefore, nitrogen addition together with crab herbivory had a significant negative effect on P. australis height, leaf length, and leaf breadth in the ambient crab and procedural crab cage treatment compared to the crab exclusion treatment. The structural equation modeling further substantiated these findings. The model revealed a direct and positive correlation between nitrogen addition and leaf nutrient content (path coefficient = 0.34). Additionally, it demonstrated a direct and positive relationship between leaf nutrient content and the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs (path coefficient = 0.22). Simultaneously, there was an observed negative correlation (path coefficient = − 0.37) between the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs and plant functional traits, represented by leaf length in the model, during 2018. Moreover, the crab exclusion treatment significantly reduced the proportion of leaves consumed by crabs and thus enhanced the P. australis individuals, leaf number, and biomass. Overall, crab herbivory had a significant detrimental top–down effect on the growth of P. australis, and nitrogen enrichment may exacerbate this top–down effect. The findings of our study highlight the combined adverse effects of nutrient enrichment and top–down on plant functional traits and plant growth. The findings of this study will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors influencing vegetation degradation in coastal wetland, thereby establishing a solid theoretical framework for the conservation and management of wetland ecosystems within the context of global environmental change.
Different impacts of parental psychological and behavioral control on the cultivation of advantageous strength in Chinese rural adolescent
Authors: Wang Rong , Liu Min , Sun Yinghong , Li Qian
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Numerous studies have focused on the mental and behavioral problems or negative emotions of adolescents when examining the impact of parental control. However, limited research has explored the relationship between parental control and adolescents’ future planning, neglecting the distinctions between parental psychological and behavioral control, as well as the significant roles of personal growth initiative and meaning in life. The present study aims to investigate the differential effects of parental psychological control and behavioral control on the future planning of rural adolescents in China.

Methods

A sample of 909 individuals (13.60±0.93 years old, 470 boys and 439 girls) completed a self-report questionnaire anonymously. The study utilized the Adolescent Future Orientation Questionnaire, Parental Control Questionnaire, Adolescents’ Personal Growth Initiative Scale, and Meaning in Life Questionnaire.

Results

The findings revealed that parental control significantly influenced the future planning of Chinese rural adolescents, with psychological control and behavioral control exerting distinct impacts in this process. Specifically, parental psychological control was found to have a direct negative effect on adolescents’ future planning, while also exhibiting a positive influence due to the masking effect of meaning in life; it did not negatively affect adolescents’ future planning through their personal growth initiative. On the other hand, parental behavioral control was observed to directly and positively impact adolescents’ future planning, as well as positively influence it through the mediating role of personal growth initiative and the chain mediating role of personal growth initiative and meaning in life.

Discussion

These results suggest that the influence of parental control on adolescents’ future planning is not a simple, singular mechanism, but rather a multi-layered and complex process, yielding mixed outcomes as a result of psychological control, behavioral control, and other factors. This complexity should be taken into consideration in educational practices and future research endeavors.
Snapshot of knowledge and stigma toward mental health disorders and treatment in Spain
Authors: Varaona Andrea , Molina-Ruiz Rosa M. , Gutiérrez-Rojas Luis , Perez-Páramo Maria , Lahera Guillermo , Donat-Vargas Carolina , Alvarez-Mon Miguel Angel
Published: August 2024

Background

Mental disorders significantly impact individuals and societies globally. Addressing societal stigma is crucial, as it affects help-seeking behaviors and the effectiveness of treatment for mental disorders.

Objective

This study aims to explore the knowledge and perceptions of the Spanish population toward mental disorders and their treatment, assess changes in mental health stigma over time, and examine variations across sociodemographic variables by comparing current results with previous studies.

Methods

A panel of three psychiatrists designed a questionnaire to collect public opinions about various aspects of mental illness in Spain, covering topics such as social perception, diagnostic reliability, causes, symptoms, treatment, suicide, and media influence. The survey, conducted from October to December 2022, involved 1,002 Spanish individuals aged 18–70.

Results

Our results indicated an improved general knowledge of mental health, reduced stigma, and greater acceptance of those affected by these disorders, compared to past research. Almost 80% of the participants have accurate knowledge regarding the complex and multifactorial nature of mental illnesses. Around 90% of the participants share the belief that stigma affects those affected by mental disorders. Psychological and pharmacological treatment are considered to be effective and helpful by more than 70% of the sample. More than 60% of the participants highlighted that suicide needs to be addressed appropriately in the media.

Conclusion

These findings suggest a significant shift in how Spanish society views mental disorders, marking progress over decades of discrimination. Reducing the stigma associated with mental health can encourage individuals to seek assistance without the fear of judgment or discrimination, thereby increasing the likelihood of early intervention and treatment. Open conversations about mental health within families, communities, and workplaces can create a supportive environment that enhances recovery. However, continued efforts and awareness campaigns targeted to broader audiences remain necessary. Responsible media portrayals of mental health, avoiding stigmatizing language or sensationalism, are also essential.
The interplay of depressive symptoms and self-efficacy in adolescents: a network analysis approach
Authors: Li Xiang , Xia Bizhen , Shen Guanghui , Dong Renjie , Xu Su , Yang Lingkai
Published: August 2024

Background

Self-efficacy, a critical psychological construct representing an individual’s belief in their ability to control their motivation, behavior, and social environment. In adolescents, self-efficacy plays a crucial role in mental health, particularly concerning depressive symptoms. Despite substantial research, the complex interplay between self-efficacy and depressive symptoms in adolescents remains incompletely understood.

Aims

The aim of this study is to investigate the complex interrelationships between self-efficacy and depressive symptoms in adolescents using psychological network analysis.

Methods

The cross-sectional study involved 3,654 adolescents. Self-efficacy was assessed using the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and depressive symptoms were measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Network analysis, incorporating the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) technique and centrality analysis, constructed and compared self-efficacy networks between depressive symptoms and healthy control groups.

Results

Of the 3,654 participants, 560 (15.32%) met criteria for moderate to severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 scores ≥10). Among those with depressive symptoms, 373 (66.61%) had moderate, 126 (22.50%) had moderate–severe, and 61 (10.89%) had severe symptoms. Bivariate correlation analyses revealed a significant negative correlation between depressive symptoms and self-efficacy (r = −0.41, p < 0.001). The results of the network analysis showed significant differences in self-efficacy networks between adolescents with and without depressive symptoms (global strength: S = 0.25, p < 0.05). Depressed participants showed a network with reduced global strength, suggesting diminished interconnectedness among self-efficacy items. Specific connections within the self-efficacy network were altered in the presence of depressive symptoms. Bridge analysis revealed that effort-based problem-solving (bridge strengths = 0.13) and suicidal ideation (bridge strengths = 0.09) were the key bridge nodes.

Conclusion

Adolescent depressive symptoms significantly impacts the self-efficacy network, resulting in diminished integration of self-efficacy and highlighting the complex interplay between self-efficacy and depressive symptoms. These findings challenge the traditional unidimensional view of self-efficacy and emphasize the need for tailored interventions focusing on unique self-efficacy profiles in adolescents with depressive symptoms.
Comprehension priming in Chinese EFL learners’ reflexive pronoun interpretation
Authors: Yang Lianrui , Song Zimiao , Wei Yinxia
Published: August 2024

Reflexive interpretation is a pivotal aspect of discourse comprehension, which usually reveals consistent challenges for Chinese EFL learners. These learners often breach the locality constraint of reflexive pronouns, exhibiting a persistent tendency towards optional reflexive comprehension. Recent research has demonstrated the effectiveness of the priming technique in altering biases among L2 learners in anaphora resolution. However, no existing studies have investigated comprehension priming in the context of reflexive interpretation among Chinese EFL learners. This study addresses this gap by conducting a sentence comprehension experiment with 36 high school students to explore the potential of comprehension priming in modifying L2 learners’ reflexive interpretation biases and examining the persistence of the priming effect. The findings reveal immediate and cumulative priming effects, with no discernible effect observed after 1 week. The results suggest that comprehension priming can occur universally, even without lexical overlap, previously assumed to be a prerequisite. While the priming effect lacks statistical significance after 1 week, there is a numerical increase in participants consistently interpreting the target structure correctly. Thus, comprehension priming emerges as an effective method for L2 learners to internalize more abstract linguistic rules. Further research on comprehension priming across diverse L2 populations and language structures is warranted.
The posttraumatic growth of fathers of preterm infants: protocol for a qualitative study in China
Authors: Yin Lina , Liu Yanli , Sunzi Kejimu , Huang Dandan , Huang Jing , Tang Liangmei , Liu Minghui
Published: August 2024

Background

Prematurity presents a significant life crisis for families, often exceeding their expectations. Fathers of premature infants face the burden of multiple caregiving roles and undergo psychological changes. When confronted with such crises, individuals often engage in self-evaluation and may experience positive transformations. This study aims to employ a qualitative research methodology to explore the experiences of fathers of preterm infants.

Materials and methods

A phenomenological approach design will be utilized, drawing upon semi-structured in-depth interviews informed by existing literature. Thematic analysis will be employed, adhering to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines. In-depth individual interviews, lasting 40-60 minutes, will be conducted with fathers of preterm infants to understand their experiences. The thematic analysis process will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to post-traumatic growth among these fathers. This methodology provides a structured approach to investigating the experiences and influences on post-traumatic growth in fathers of preterm infants.

Results

This study will highlight changes in post-traumatic growth among fathers of preterm infants.

Discussion

Research on the post-traumatic growth (PTG) of fathers of preterm infants is crucial to understanding the unique challenges and psychological transformations they experience. This study aims to explore the factors contributing to PTG in these fathers and how cultural contexts in China influence this process. By elucidating these aspects, the findings can inform targeted interventions and support systems tailored to the needs of fathers of preterm infants. The results may also contribute to developing guidelines and policies to promote psychological well-being and resilience among this population in the healthcare system.

Ethics and dissemination

This study adheres to the International Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical Research and the Declaration of Helsinki. Approval has been obtained from the People’s Hospital of Deyang Human Research Ethics Committee (No: 2019-04-150-K01). The research follows the principles of open science, and the findings will be published while ensuring participants’ confidentiality.
Developing implementation strategies for promoting integrative oncology outpatient service delivery and utilisation: a qualitative study in Hong Kong
Authors: Ho Leonard , Kwong Ming Hong , Li Angus S. C. , Nilsen Per , Ho Fai Fai , Zhong Claire C. W. , Wong Charlene H. L. , Lin Wai Ling , Chung Vincent C. H.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Current evidence supports the use of integrative oncology (IO) interventions in cancer supportive care. The demand for outpatient IO services in Hong Kong is expected to soar following the surge in cancer incidence due to population ageing. This study identified the factors influencing the delivery and utilisation of outpatient IO from local stakeholders’ perspectives and developed corresponding implementation strategies.

Methods

This study involved two sequential stages. First, with individual semi-structured interviews guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), we explored stakeholders’ views on the barriers to and facilitators for implementing IO. Second, guided by a TDF-based qualitative data analysis of interview transcripts, we performed intervention mapping to develop Behaviour Change Wheel-based implementation strategies that may overcome the barriers and strengthen the facilitators.

Results

We interviewed 31 stakeholders, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners (n = 8), biomedically-trained doctors (n = 7), nurses (n = 6), administrators (n = 4), caregivers (n = 4), and pharmacists (n = 2). The key local factors influencing outpatient IO are (1) lacking nursing and administrative workforce supporting IO service delivery, (2) lacking awareness of IO services among healthcare professionals, administrators, patients, and caregivers, and (3) lacking knowledge among healthcare professionals of herb–drug interaction and herbal toxicities.

Conclusion

We recommended a multi-faceted implementation strategies package that included arranging funding to train, recruit, and retain nursing and administrative staff, devolving resources into promoting interprofessional collaborations and evidence on IO effectiveness and safety, integrating evidence on herb–drug interactions and herbal toxicities into automated electronic health record systems monitored by pharmacists with dual qualifications in TCM and conventional pharmacy.