bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research hotspots and development trends of Brucellar spondylitis in the past 30 years: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wu Jinyu , Yuan Hongxia , Chen Hongchao
Published: February 2025

Objective

With the growing emphasis on global health issues, Brucellar spondylitis, a serious complication of brucellosis, has received increasing attention from researchers. This study employed bibliometric analysis to visually illustrate the scientific advancements and research trends in the field of Brucellar spondylitis research, providing a scientific basis for public health prevention and control strategies.

Method

The data were sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection database, covering the period from January 1, 1984, to December 31, 2023. Network analyses of countries, institutions, authors, and keyword collaborations, as well as co-citation analyses of journals and references, were conducted using CiteSpace software. VOSviewer software was used to analyze the co-occurrence and hotspots of keywords.

Result

A total of 246 relevant documents were retrieved, comprising 221 articles and 25 review articles. From 1984 to 2023, the number of research publications exhibited a generally fluctuating upward trend. Turkey and China emerged as the primary contributing countries in this field, with Xinjiang Medical University identified as the most productive research institution. Additionally, Juan D. Colmenero is recognized as the author with the highest number of published articles and citations. “Clinical Infectious Diseases” is regarded as the most influential journal in this domain. Among the 404 keywords analyzed by CiteSpace, the top 10 high-frequency keywords included spondylitis, complication, melitensis, osteoarticular complication, diagnosis, infection, clinical characteristics, epidural abscess, arthritis, and feature. A total of 14 clusters were formed. In the burst analysis of the top 15 keywords, “instrumentation” exhibited the highest burst intensity, while “arthritis” demonstrated the longest burst duration. Emerging keywords include “experience,” “ankylosing spondylitis,” “China,” and “instrumentation.”

Conclusion

This study is the first bibliometric analysis in the field of Brucellar spondylitis, which revealed that the research hotspots in this field included the clinical characteristics of the disease, the management of complications, and treatment strategies. The development trend may involve enhancements in early diagnostic methods and advancements in surgical instruments. This study serves as a valuable reference for future research directions.
Alterations in brain function in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment: a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Han Kaiyue , Dong Linghui , Liao Xingxing , Long Junzi , Chen Jiarou , Lu Haitao , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2025

Background

Cognitive impairment is a common dysfunction following stroke, significantly affecting patients’ quality of life. Studies suggest that post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) may be related to neural activity in specific brain regions. However, the neural mechanisms remain to be further explored. This study aimed to investigate the alterations in brain function in patients with PSCI.

Methods

This was a case–control study. Thirty patients with PSCI, thirty with non-PSCI (NPSCI), and thirty age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HCs) were selected in a 1:1:1 ratio. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) were acquired from all participants to study the potential neural mechanisms of PSCI patients by comparing the differences in fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF), Kendall’s coefficient of concordance-regional homogeneity (KCC-ReHo), and seed-based functional connectivity (FC). Additionally, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores of PSCI patients were collected, and Pearson correlation was used to analyze the correlation between functional indicators and cognitive performance in PSCI patients.

Results

fALFF analysis revealed that the PSCI group had decreased zfALFF values in the left caudate, right inferior temporal gyrus (ITG), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), left putamen, and left superior temporal gyrus. In contrast, increased zfALFF values were observed in the right Cerebellum_6. KCC-ReHo analysis indicated that the PSCI group had decreased SzKCC-ReHo values in the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG) and left postcentral lobe, while increased SzKCC-ReHo values in the left cerebellum_ crus 1, and left cerebellum_4–5. Furthermore, seed-based FC analysis revealed decreased zFC values between brain regions in the PSCI group, especially between the angular gyrus and precuneus. Additionally, correlation analysis showed that the zfALFF value of ACC was positively correlated with MoCA scores in the PSCI group.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated significant changes in the spontaneous neural activity intensity, regional homogeneity, and FC of multiple cognition-related brain regions in PSCI patients, shedding light on the underlying neural mechanisms of brain function in PSCI.
Relationship between Body Roundness Index and cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Guo Dandan , Li Tao , Yang Qingchao , Yang Chenlu , Yang Yang , Liu Fuchen , Ma Jun , Tu Jun , Ning Xianjia , Wang Jinghua , Song Chengyuan , Liu Yiming
Published: February 2025

Background

Cognitive impairment is a growing public health concern, particularly in aging populations. Obesity, as measured by various indices, has been linked to cognitive decline, but the relationship between Body Roundness Index (BRI) and cognitive impairment remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the association between BRI and cognitive impairment in a rural, low-income, low-education population in China and to determine if BRI can be used as an independent predictor of cognitive decline.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included the participants aged 35–95 years from rural Tianjin, China. The mean age of the study population was 64.35 ± 7.58 years. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews, physical examinations, and laboratory tests. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and BRI was calculated and grouped into quartiles. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between BRI and cognitive impairment. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore interactions between BRI, age, gender, and hypertension. The dose–response relationship was analyzed using restricted cubic spline models.

Results

Of the participants, 36.5% had cognitive impairment. Multivariate analysis showed that women, individuals aged 65 and over, and those with hypertension had a higher risk of cognitive impairment. Participants in the second quartile of BRI had a 31% lower risk of cognitive impairment compared to the first quartile (OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.51–0.94, p = 0.017). Subgroup analysis revealed that BRI was significantly associated with cognitive impairment in individuals under 65, but not in older participants. The dose–response relationship between BRI and MMSE score showed an inverted U-shaped curve, with the weakest association observed around a BRI of 4.49.

Conclusion

Body Roundness Index, in conjunction with age, gender, and hypertension, can serve as a useful predictor of cognitive impairment, particularly in younger populations. Early identification of individuals at risk through BRI may facilitate timely interventions, reducing the burden of cognitive decline on patients and healthcare systems.
Case report: Primary subcutaneous Rosai-Dorfman-Destombes of the scalp with intra-cranial involvement: diagnosis and treatment of a rare case with literature review
Authors: Zhenwei Qin , Beiyan Tang , Ding Chen , Qiang Liang , Qiang Dong , Huixia Zhai , Wei Kang , Xianjun Zhao , Yawen Pan
Published: February 2025

Rosai-Dorfman-Destombes disease (RDD) is a rare histiocytic proliferative disorder, with primary scalp and intracranial involvement being particularly uncommon. The imaging features and clinical manifestations of RDD often overlap with other intracranial lesions, such as meningiomas, leading to misdiagnosis. This study presents a case of primary scalp and intracranial RDD, with a comprehensive analysis of its imaging, pathological, and intraoperative findings, alongside a review of the literature on central nervous system (CNS) RDD and its diagnostic and therapeutic advancements. Preoperative CT and MRI scans clearly depicted characteristic changes in the scalp and intracranial lesions. However, the preoperative assessment failed to fully recognize abnormalities in the skull base, leading to an incomplete initial understanding. During surgery, the dura mater and obstructed superior sagittal sinus were resected extensively, and the pathology confirmed RDD. Postoperative recovery was smooth, and no recurrence was observed during follow-up. This case emphasizes the importance of detailed imaging in the diagnosis and treatment of RDD, combining preoperative evaluation with intraoperative observations to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and recurrence. Furthermore, the exploration of individualized treatment strategies and targeted therapies plays a crucial role in managing complex cases. This study offers valuable experience for the diagnosis and treatment of similar rare cases.
Leveraging automated time-lapse microscopy coupled with deep learning to automate colony forming assay
Authors: Klett Anusha , Raith Dennis , Silvestrini Paula , Stingl Matías , Bermeitinger Jonas , Sapre Avani , Condor Martin , Melachrinos Roman , Kusterer Mira , Brand Alexandra , Pisani Guido , Ullrich Evelyn , Follo Marie , Duque-Afonso Jesús , Mertelsmann Roland
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The colony forming assay (CFA) stands as a cornerstone technique for evaluating the clonal expansion ability of single cancer cells and is crucial for assessing drug efficacy. However, traditional CFAs rely on labor-intensive, endpoint manual counting, offering limited insights into the dynamic effects of treatment. To overcome these limitations, we developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-assisted automated CFA combining time-lapse microscopy for real-time tracking of colony formation.

Methods

Using B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) cells from an E2A-PBX1 mouse model, we cultured them in a collagen-based 3D matrix with cytokines under static conditions in a low volume (60 µl) culture vessel and validated its comparability to methylcellulose-based media. No significant differences in final colony count or plating efficiency were observed. Our automated platform utilizes a deep learning and multi-object tracking approach for colony counting. Brightfield images were used to train a YOLOv8 object detection network, achieving a mAP50 score of 86% for identifying single cells, clusters, and colonies, and 97% accuracy for Z-stack colony identification with a multi-object tracking algorithm. The detection model accurately identified the majority of objects in the dataset.

Results

This AI-assisted CFA was successfully applied for density optimization, enabling the determination of seeding densities that maximize plating efficiency (PE), and for IC50 determination, offering an efficient, less labor-intensive method for testing drug concentrations. In conclusion, our novel AI-assisted automated colony counting platform enables automated, high-throughput analysis of colony dynamics, significantly reducing labor and increasing accuracy. Furthermore, it allows detailed, long-term studies of cell-cell interactions and treatment responses using live-cell imaging and AI-assisted cell tracking.

Discussion

Future integration with a perfusion-based drug screening system promises to enhance personalized cancer therapy by optimizing broad drug screening approaches and enabling real-time evaluation of therapeutic efficacy.
Multimodal ultrasound: a non-invasive method for identifying dedifferentiation of papillary thyroid carcinoma during active surveillance
Authors: Dou Qian-Yi , Guo Huan-Ling , Qiu Wan-Bing , Xu Ming , Chen Shu-Ling , Zhang Xiao-Er , Xie Xiao-Yan , Liang Jin-Yu
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of multimodal ultrasound in differentiating anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) from papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and to evaluate its capability in detecting thyroid carcinoma (TC) aggressiveness.

Methods

Sixty nude mice were randomly assigned to ATC and PTC groups and injected subcutaneously with KHM-5M and TPC-1 cell lines, respectively. Tumors were analyzed using B-mode ultrasound (B-US), Color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI), elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). A logistic model integrating multimodal ultrasound data was constructed, and Ki-67 and CD31 expressions in tumor tissues were analyzed immunohistochemically. Correlations between ultrasound features and aggressiveness markers were investigated.

Results

The ATC group exhibited significantly higher strain-elastography scores (p=0.009) and Adler grades in CDFI (p=0.045). CEUS revealed a higher frequency of heterogeneous enhancement (95.2% vs. 48.1%, p<0.001) and perfusion defects (90.5% vs. 63.0%, p<0.001) in ATC. Model area under the curve (AUC) values for distinguishing ATC from PTC were 0.963 for (B-US + CEUS), 0.926 for CEUS, 0.729 for elastography, 0.663 for CDFI, and 0.675 for B-US. The multimodal ultrasound model demonstrated significant correlations with Ki-67 (p<0.001) and microvessel density (MVD) (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Multimodal ultrasound showing high efficacy with an AUC of 0.963 for B-US and CEUS combined in distinguishing ATC from PTC and exhibited strong associations with Ki-67 and MVD. Incorporating multimodal ultrasound, with an emphasis on CEUS, into active surveillance strategies for PTC is recommended. By providing detailed insights into tumor vascularity and aggressiveness, multimodal ultrasound could play a crucial role in early detection and treatment decision-making, improving patient outcomes.
Correlation analysis between the severity of respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia and the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid among infants and young children
Authors: Tan Lin , He Zhaohui , Liang Yongqi , Wang Kuncheng , Chen Xiaoqian
Published: February 2025

Purpose

RSV is the primary cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children. Current study aims to investigate the correlation between the severity of respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia (RSVP) in infants and young children and the number of RSV infection sequences as well as the levels of cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF).

Methods

Metagenomics next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to detect the number of RSV infection sequences and the levels of related inflammatory cytokines in BALF samples. Comparisons between groups and Logistic regression analysis were performed to examine the differences in RSV infection sequences and inflammatory cytokine levels between the sRSVP and nsRSVP groups. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlations among PCIS, RSV infection sequences, and inflammatory cytokines. Finally, ROC curve analysis was conducted to assess the diagnostic performance of inflammatory cytokines as biomarkers in determining the severity of RSVP.

Results

A total of 49 infants and young children diagnosed with RSV infection were enrolled and divided into severe RSVP (sRSVP) and non-severe RSVP (nsRSVP) groups based on the pediatric critical illness score (PCIS) scale. The levels of Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), IL-17A, and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) as well as the number of RSV sequences in BALF were significantly higher in the sRSVP group than in the nsRSVP group. Additionally, elevated levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IL-17A, and the number of RSV sequences were identified as risk factors for the severity of RSVP. Spearman's correlation analysis revealed significant negative correlations between the levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IL-17A, and MCP-1 in BALF with PCIS, and significant positive correlations with the number of RSV sequences. Furthermore, a significant negative correlation was observed between RSV sequence count and PCIS. ROC curve analysis showed that the levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IL-17A, and MCP-1, as well as their combined diagnostic approach, exhibited high diagnostic performance in determining the severity of RSVP.

Conclusion

The levels of inflammatory cytokines and RSV sequences in BALF are significantly correlated with the severity of RSVP in infants and young children. The levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IL-17A, and MCP-1 can serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosing the severity of RSVP.
Curative effect of laparoscopic ureteral end-to-side anastomosis at the pelvic level for a duplex kidney in children
Authors: Bian Zedong , Xiong Geng , Liu Tong , Zhi Yong , Liu Ming
Published: February 2025

Background

To analyze the clinical efficacy and experience with laparoscopic ureteral end-to-side anastomosis at the pelvic level for a duplex kidney (DK) in children.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 20 children diagnosed with a complete DK in the pediatric surgery department of the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University between January 2018 and July 2024. The cohort comprised 15 girls and five boys aged 5–100 months (mean ± SD, 38.5 ± 29.9). There were 16 cases on the left side and four cases on the right side. There were five cases of simple upper ureterovesical junction stenosis, seven cases of upper ureteroceles, seven cases of upper ureteral ectopic opening, and one case of postoperative vesicoureteral reflux with fenestration for upper ureteroceles. The major clinical symptoms were intermittent perineal urinary leakage and repeated infection of the urinary tract. Laparoscopic duplex ureteral end-to-side anastomosis (between the end section of the upper ureter and the lateral section of the lower ureter) at the pelvic level was performed in all patients with an intraoperative indwelling ureteral stent.

Results

Laparoscopy with no conversion to open was undertaken in the 20 cases. The duration of the procedure was 85–140 (112.9 ± 14.3) min. Intraoperative blood loss was 5–15 (8.2 ± 4.4) ml. Postoperative duration of hospital stay was 5–9 (6.5 ± 0.9) days. No anastomosis fistula, anastomotic stenosis, ureteral stump infection or other complications occurred. The ureteral stent was removed 8 weeks after surgery. All children were followed up for 4–68 (median, 32) months. Clinical symptoms disappeared, and the degree of upper renal hydronephrosis decreased.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic ureteral end-to-side anastomosis at the pelvic level for a DK in children is safe and efficacious. It is a minimally invasive procedure that is simple with few complications, and merits wider popularization.
Potential efficacy and mechanisms of icariin for the animal model of osteonecrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Xu Jie , Deng Wei , Zhu Xun , Han Deyu , Zheng Yu , Zheng Qun
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Icariin (ICA), one of the main active components of Epimediumis, is reported to revere osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). The aim of this study is to further explore the mechanisms and efficacy of ICA in animal models of ONFH and simultaneously analyze methodological issues in the field of researches.

Methods

According to the established search strategy, we searched 14 studies from eight databases from their inception dates to November 2024. The CAMARADES 10-item checklist was utilized to evaluate the methodological quality of the stuies and Rev-Man 5.3 software to analyze differences in outcome indicators.

Results

The quality score for the included articles ranges from 1/10 to 6/10 with an average of 4.5 and the defects in aspects of blinding assessment of outcome, randomization and sample size calculation are the main losing points. Compared with the control group, 10 stuies reported ICA could partially improve bone pathology including reducing the empty of bone lacunae, maturing osteoblasts of ONFH and decreasing chondroid bone matrix and fibrous connective tissue. Eight stuies indicates that ICA could improve bone-related parameters under imageology including F-BMD, Tb.N, Tb.Th, BV/TV and Tb. Sp.

Discussion

The preclinical systematic review provided preliminary evidence that ICA partially reversing ONFH in animal models probably via promoting angiogenesis, anti-apoptosis, and regulating the activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Randomization, blinding and sample size calculation should be focused on in future studies of ONFH. These findings suggest that ICA is a potential candidate for further clinical trials of ONFH.
The clinically applied PARP inhibitor talazoparib ameliorates imiquimod-induced psoriasis in mice without reducing skin inflammation
Authors: Molnár Petra , Demény Máté Ágoston , Várkonyi Beáta , Polgár Zsuzsanna , Pór Ágnes , Kovács Ilona , Szegedi Andrea , Szöllősi Attila Gábor , Szántó Magdolna
Published: February 2025

Background

Considering the role PARPs play in inflammation, we assessed the effect of PARP inhibition in an inflammatory skin condition, psoriasis, to explore novel avenues for the potential repurposing of PARP inhibitors that are currently used in tumour therapy.

Methods

The imiquimod (IMQ)-induced model of psoriasis was applied in BALB/c mice. Mice received daily intraperitoneal injection of either one of four PARP inhibitors or their vehicle prior to treatment of the shaved back skin of mice with IMQ-containing cream or control cream for four days. The appearance of the skin of mice was scored daily according to the extent of erythema, induration and scaling. The most effective PARP inhibitor was selected for detailed studies on mouse skin and in a human keratinocyte cell line.

Results

Of the PARP inhibitors, talazoparib and rucaparib improved the imiquimod-induced symptoms on mouse skin. Application of talazoparib in the psoriasis model resulted in maintained terminal differentiation and reduced proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes. Conversely, talazoparib also enhanced the production of pro-inflammatory chemokines in the skin of mice. These effects of talazoparib was associated with increased mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species and a consequent activation of pro-apoptotic and pro-inflammatory pathways in keratinocytes.

Conclusion

PARP inhibition by talazoparib promotes terminal differentiation of epidermal keratinocytes that may be beneficial in psoriasis. Despite the fact that talazoparib exerted a pro-inflammatory effect in the skin, which is not unprecedented in anti-psoriatic therapy, these findings may advance the conduction of pre-clinical and clinical trials with PARP inhibitors in psoriasis management.
Ergothioneine attenuates psoriasis symptoms through modulation of M1/M2 macrophage polarisation via the NF-κB/JAK-STAT3 pathway
Authors: Li Ang , Liu Yanjie , Yu Peiling , Zhang Zhiyuan , Huang Tengxiao , Li Hang , Wu Songzhi , Rong Xiaoyu , Liao Wensheng , Wang Hongqiang , Gao Yanzheng
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The underlying cause of psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition driven by an immune response, remains a topic of active investigation and is not yet fully elucidated. Recent studies have revealed that ergothioneine, a small molecule sulfur-containing histidine derivative that can be ingested from the daily diet and accumulated in the body, exhibits antioxidant capacity that is comparable to that of glutathione. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of empirical data concerning the precise impact of ergothioneine in the context of anti-inflammatory processes, particularly in the context of psoriasis. In the light of the aforementioned considerations, the present study was undertaken with the objective of conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the anti-inflammatory potential of ergothioneine (EGT) and to investigate its potential impact on the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

Methods:

The efficacy of EGT in reducing the extent of dorsal skin lesions in psoriasis model mice was confirmed through in vivo experimental observation. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of EGT on inflammatory responses at the cellular level was investigated, specifically in LPS-induced mouse macrophage (RAW264.7) and human keratinocyte-forming cell (HaCaT) models.

Results

The results demonstrated that the introduction of different concentrations of EGT into the LPS-induced inflammatory cell model resulted in notable anti-inflammatory effects, as evidenced by a reduction in inflammatory responses and a dose dependent decline in the concentrations of key inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Furthermore, EGT was observed to reverse the LPS induced increase in the ratio of M1 to M2 macrophages. EGT was also observed to markedly suppress the LPS-induced phosphorylation of JAK/STAT3 and NF-κB, offering a novel insight into the anti-inflammatory mechanism of EGT.

Discussion

In conclusion, the findings of the present study consistently demonstrated that ergothioneine had a significant ameliorative effect on the imiquimod-induced psoriasis model by modulating the NF-κB/JAK-STAT3 signalling pathway. This provides a strong experimental rationale for its potential application in psoriasis treatment.
Male mouse skeletal muscle lacking HuR shows enhanced glucose disposal at a young age
Authors: Noland Robert C. , Ghosh Sujoy , Crisanto Carlos J. , Aleman Antonio , Chaney McKenna K. , Chauhan Maitri K. , Loftis Layla G. , Goad Ally C. , Rickman Christin F. , Velasquez Samuel E. , Warfel Jaycob D.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Metabolic flexibility is the ability of a system to switch between metabolic substrates. Human and murine skeletal muscle tissues and cells with decreased activity of the regulatory RNA-binding protein, human antigen R (HuR), have decreased capacity for fat oxidation, and thus decreased metabolic flexibility. In this study, we aimed to assess the preference for carbohydrates in mice lacking HuR in skeletal muscle.

Methods

Experiments were performed on weight-matched control and HuR knockout mice of both sexes. Palmitate and pyruvate oxidation were performed in mouse muscle following the release of 14CO2. In vivo glucose and lipid uptake were assayed in mouse tissue following nonmetabolizable 3H-2-deoxyglucose or 14C-bromopalmitate injection. Transcriptomic analyses were performed in the skeletal muscle of all mice, followed by qPCR validation of select genes. Serum lactate and glucose levels were measured in mice via tail nick, and the muscle glycogen level was measured through colorimetric assay. Indirect calorimetry was used to measure respiratory exchange ratios.

Results

Male muscle-specific HuR knockout mice showed increased glucose uptake relative to controls, specifically in skeletal muscle, and have increased muscle glycogen content. These mice also displayed greater respiratory exchange ratios than controls. None of these differences were noted in females. Transcriptomics showed far more differences between male and female mice than between control and HuR knockout mice. However, differential gene expression between male and female mice was diminished by 50% following the removal of HuR. Male HuR knockout mouse skeletal muscle had increased glycolytic gene expression relative to controls but showed no difference relative to females of the same genotype. Both palmitate and pyruvate oxidation were decreased in the skeletal muscle of male HuR knockout mice relative to controls, and serum lactate levels were increased. No notable differences were seen in females between genotypes.

Discussion

The increase in the markers of glucose utilization with decreased HuR activity in male mice may indicate a switch toward glycolysis as compensation for decreased fat oxidation. These results continue to highlight a sex dependence on HuR as a driver of fat oxidation in mouse skeletal muscle while also indicating that muscle itself shows greater ambiguity between males and females following the removal of HuR.
Short-term microgravity effects simulation does not affect fNIRS measures of cerebral oxygenation changes induced by cognitive load
Authors: Peysakhovich Vsevolod , Kiehl Thibault , Martinez Lucia Vicente , Boyer Laure , Causse Mickaël , Paillet Alexis , Pavy-Le Traon Anne
Published: February 2025

In the past decade, there has been a surge in interest in space exploration studies, particularly due to the prospect of exploring distant planets such as Mars. However, long-duration space missions may pose cognitive challenges resulting from spaceflight-induced perceptual and motor changes, prolonged cephalic fluid shifts, and high cognitive load. One method for monitoring cognitive activity is functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), a technique not yet tested under prolonged microgravity conditions beyond parabolic flight periods. Since fNIRS relies on cerebral oxygenation levels, should we adjust it for the fluid shift? To address this, the study explores the impact of simulated microgravity on cerebral oxygenation measures using fNIRS during a cognitive task, employing head-down tilt at different inclination levels and the Toulouse N-back Task (assessing memory and mental calculation) with varying difficulty levels. Eighteen subjects participated in the experiment. The results indicated that increasing difficulty levels of the cognitive task led to decreased accuracy, longer response times, and higher perceived difficulty scores. The inclination levels did not affect task performance. Increased difficulty was also concomitant with increasing HbO and decreasing HbR concentrations unaffected by the head-down tilt angle variations. These promising findings suggest that fNIRS measures could be used under microgravity conditions to measure cognitive load without correction for fluid shift.
Loss rate of net primary productivity under drought stress on the Yinshanbeilu of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Sinan Wang , Wu Yingjie , Wang Wenjun , Guo Jianyin , Li Mingyang
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The increasing intensity and frequency of droughts seriously threaten the structure and function of terrestrial ecosystems. In order to ensure the normal play of ecosystem service function under future stress, the temporal and spatial characteristics of ecosystem productivity response to drought need to be explored.

Methods

The net primary production (NPP) of vegetation in the Yinshanbeilu was calculated using the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach (CASA) model, and subsequent study concentrated on the NPP’s geographical and temporal variable characteristics. By the calculation of the standard precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), the study also sought to examine the relationship between drought and NPP at various time scales. Researchers also built drought loss rate curves based on various fertility stages using the vulnerability curve construction method.

Results and discussion

Findings revealed that the SPEI had varying degrees of efficacy in capturing drought conditions at various time frames. Nonetheless, the SPEI’s spatial distribution, which shows a wet distribution in the east and an arid distribution in the west, exhibited identical characteristics for all scales and may be used to indicate drought. Significant interannual variation was seen in the NPP of the study area’s vegetation, which fluctuated in an upward direction from 2000 to 2020. 75.89%, 77.23%, 81.35%, and 83.56% of the area were found to have a positive correlation between the SPEI and vegetation NPP at various time scales, with 42.53%, 48.15%, 90.72%, and 92.75% of the area passing the significance test (p < 0.05), in that order. Their results showed that as the SPEI time scale was increased, the link between vegetation NPP and SPEI became stronger. The loss rate of vegetation NPP fluctuated and grew regularly with the expansion of drought degree, varying between 20-50%, according to drought loss rate curves created for each fertility period.
The cultural adaptation of the Friendship Bench Intervention to address perinatal psychological distress in Sierra Leone: an application of the ADAPT-ITT framework and the Ecological Validity Model
Authors: Bah Abdulai Jawo , Wurie Haja Ramatulai , Samai Mohamed , Horn Rebecca , Ager Alastair
Published: February 2025

Background

In Sierra Leone, women of reproductive age represent a significant portion of the population and face heightened mental health challenges due to the lasting effects of civil war, the Ebola epidemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to culturally adapt the Friendship Bench Intervention (FBI) for perinatal psychological distress in Sierra Leone.

Method

We utilized the ADAPT-ITT framework and Bernal’s Ecological Validity Model (EVM) for culturally adapting the FBI’s process and content. The adaptation stages included a formative study to assess perinatal women’s mental health needs. We screened the FBI for modifications based on the data from the formative study and EVM. The initial FBI manual was presented to mother-mother support groups (MMSGs, n=5) and primary health workers (n=3) for feedback (version 1.0). A theatre test with perinatal women (n=10) was conducted led by MMSGs, yielding further feedback (version 2.0). The revised manual was then reviewed by topical experts (n=2), whose insights were incorporated (version 3.0).

Results

The Friendship Bench manual for Sierra Leone has been revised to better meet the cultural needs of perinatal women. The cover now illustrates an elderly woman conversing with a new mother, emphasizing community support. Culturally relevant idioms, such as “poil at” and “mind not steady,” replace previous terms, and new screening tools, the Sierra Leone Perinatal Psychological Distress Scale (SLPPDS) and the Function Scale, have been introduced. The problem-solving therapy was simplified from seven to four steps, and training duration was reduced from nine days to two, using visual aids to enhance comprehension for those with low literacy levels.

Conclusion

Through this systematic approach, we successfully culturally adapted the FBI for treating perinatal psychological distress in Sierra Leone. The next step is to evaluate it feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness in perinatal care settings.
Menopause-dependent correlations of blood mercury levels with bone mineral density and appendicular lean mass index in middle-aged women
Authors: Xu Feng , Wang Yanfei , Fang Jinqiong , Zhu Zhongxin
Published: February 2025

Background

Mercury exposure poses significant health risks, yet its effects on bone mineral density (BMD) and appendicular lean mass index (ALMI) in middle-aged women remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the associations between blood mercury levels (BML) and these key indicators of skeletal health and body composition, with special attention to the potential modifying effect of menopausal status.

Methods

We analyzed data from 1,648 women aged 40–59 years (782 premenopausal, 866 postmenopausal) using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2018. Multiple linear regression models were employed to assess the relationships between LnBML and both lumbar BMD and ALMI, adjusting for relevant covariates.

Results

There was complex, non-linear associations between LnBML and skeletal health parameters. Notably, the relationship between LnBML and lumbar BMD differed significantly based on menopausal status (P for interaction <0.001). In premenopausal women, LnBML was negatively associated with BMD (β = −0.018, 95% CI: −0.029, −0.007), while in postmenopausal women, a positive association was observed (β = 0.025, 95% CI: 0.014, 0.036). Conversely, LnBML demonstrated a significant positive association with ALMI (β = 0.054, 95% CI: 0.025, 0.083, p < 0.001) in the fully adjusted model.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed intricate, menopause-dependent relationships between BML and skeletal health parameters in middle-aged women. These results underscore the complex interplay between environmental exposures and women’s health across the menopausal transition, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and inform targeted interventions.
Impact of Omicron infection on childhood health: the Beijing long-COVID study
Authors: Zhou Bo , Xu Qi , Li Shaoli , Wang Jianhong , Liu Junting , Zhang Ting , Qu Xia , Wang Xi , Zhang Lili , Liu Xiaoli , Gu Jialu , Zhou Lijun , Chen Fangfang , Zong Xinnan , Niu Wenquan , Wang Lin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the dynamic changes of persisting symptoms among children aged 6–18 years during 1–2 months after the Omicron infection based on the modified SBQ-LC in the Tongzhou cohort, Beijing.

Methods

This study includes 4 serial surveys performed within January 7–9, January 14–16, January 21–23, and February 12–14 in 2023, respectively. The prediction of age and survey for eight domains in the Rasch 0–100 linear score was undertaken by generalized additive mixed model.

Results

Total 1,536 children (median age: 13 years, boys: 49.9%) had completed questionnaires across 4 surveys. Information on 51 symptoms was collected, with each scored on a 4-point rating scale. Generally, the distribution of age with all domains followed the N-shaped geometry, and that of survey followed the inverse J-shaped geometry. The Rasch linear score hit the lowest level among children aged 6–8 years, and reached the peak among children aged 12–13 years. The scores of all domains sharply declined from the first to the third survey, and remained stable between the third and the fourth survey. At the fourth survey, 95.05 and 51.37% children still had one or more problems relating to breathing and mental health, respectively, and the percentage of rest six domains was reduced to less than 20%.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate the multifaceted impact of Omicron infection on childhood health, especially among children aged 12–13 years. Moreover, breathing and mental health related problems still persisted during 1-to-2-month Omicron infection period.
Determining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the consumption of antibiotics in Shaanxi province, China: an interrupted time-series analysis
Authors: Ji Wenjing , Zhao Yifei , Du Jiaxi , Zhao Hang , McIver David J. , Ye Dan , Yan Kangkang , Wei Xiaolin , Fang Yu
Published: February 2025

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic, as well as associated prevention and control measures, have impacted the entire healthcare system, including the use patterns of medicine. However, the impact of COVID-19 on the use of antibiotics has not yet been extensively evaluated in China. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the consumption and expenditure of antibiotics in public healthcare institutions in Shaanxi Province, China.

Methods

We used longitudinal data from the Shaanxi provincial drug procurement database in this study. An interrupted time-series analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of COVID-19 on consumption and expenditures of antibiotics in public healthcare institutions in Shaanxi from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2020. Antibiotic consumption was expressed as the number of defined daily doses (DDDs) per 1,000 residents per day (DIDs), based on the population of Shaanxi Province at the end of each year from the National Bureau of Statistics. The pre-pandemic period was from January 2017 to January 2020, and the post-pandemic period was from February 2020 to December 2020.

Results

A declining trend in antibiotic consumption was observed immediately following the COVID-19 pandemic (β2 = −4.099; p < 0.001). Regarding the route of administration, a larger decrease in the consumption of oral antibiotics was observed compared to parenteral (β2 = −3.056; p < 0.001). The decrease in antibiotic consumption in the Watch category (β2 = −2.164; p < 0.001) was larger than in the Access category (β2 = −1.773; p < 0.001), and penicillins (J01C) (β2 = −1.261; p < 0.001) showed a higher decline than cephalosporins (J01D) (β2 = −1.147; p < 0.001). An increasing trend of broad-spectrum antibiotic consumption was observed after the onset of the pandemic (β3 = 0.021; p = 0.015). Expenditures on and consumption of antibiotics follow essentially the same trend.

Conclusion

Despite an initial decline in antibiotic consumption at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, it had returned to prior levels by the end of 2020. Findings underscore the continued importance of antibiotic stewardship initiatives.
Adapting a sexual and reproductive health program for Latina teens and their female caregivers: a qualitative study
Authors: Merrill Katherine G. , Fuentes Jacqueline , Merrill Jamison , DeCelles Jeff , Silva Jacqueline , Sedeño Angela , Salgado Susana , Vargas Sara , Cano Jennifer K. , Nabor Veronica , Rodriguez Laura , Melgoza Vanessa , Mora Corin , Baumann Ana A. , Guastaferro Kate , Donenberg Geri R.
Published: February 2025

Background

Adaptation is widely recognized as important when interventions are to be delivered in new settings or with new populations. However, there are gaps in the literature on how adaptations are carried out and documented. IMARA is a 12-h evidence-based sexual health intervention for Black teens and their mothers, designed for delivery over two days. We present our systematic process of adapting IMARA for Latinas to produce the Floreciendo (“Blooming”) program for Latina teens (14–18 years old) and their female caregivers (e.g., mothers, sisters).

Methods

Using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach, we carried out a qualitative study that included 7 focus groups: 4 with staff from community partner organizations (n = 29), 2 with Latina teens (14–18 years) (n = 11), and 1 with female caregivers (n = 5). We also conducted seven key informant interviews with experts in sexual health and Latina health. We used Escoffery’s recommended steps to guide our adaptation process. Data were thematically coded and adaptations documented using the FRAME for reporting modifications to evidence-based interventions.

Results

Informed by the data, we grouped IMARA content into four sessions for Floreciendo, each with unique curricular content and designed to be delivered in two hours (eight hours total): (1) Foundations in Sexual Risk Prevention; (2) Condoms and Contraception; (3) Family Strengthening; and (4) Gender and Relationships. We documented adaptations made for each session. For example, participants emphasized unplanned pregnancy as an important issue facing Latina teens. In response, we added an activity providing hands-on experience with contraceptive methods. Participants also highlighted how gender norms and family expectations in Latine culture shape Latina teens’ sexual and reproductive health practices. We therefore developed activities and opportunities for discussion addressing these cultural influences. We removed IMARA activities considered of lower priority (e.g., portrayal of women in the media).

Conclusion

This study addresses gaps in the literature by reporting in detail the adaptations we made to an evidence-based intervention using qualitative methods. The four curriculum sessions we generated through our adaptation process will form the basis of the intervention components we will test in future work using the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) framework.
Sentinel-1 (S1) time series alignment method for rapeseed fields mapping
Authors: Maleki Saeideh , Baghdadi Nicolas , Najem Sami , Dantas Cassio Fraga , Ienco Dino , Bazzi Hassan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of rapeseed fields mapping using Sentinel-1 (S1) time series data. We applied a time series alignment method to enhance the accuracy of rapeseed fields detection, even in scenarios where reference label data are limited or not available.

Methods

To this end, for five different study sites in France and North America, we first investigated the temporal transferability of the classifiers across several years within the same site, specifically using the Random Forest (RF) and InceptionTime algorithms. We then examined the spatiotemporal transferability of the classifiers when a classifier trained on one site and year was used to generate rapeseed fields map for another site and year. Next, we proposed an S1 time series alignment method to improve classification accuracy across sites and years by accounting for temporal shifts caused by differences in agricultural practices and climatic conditions between sites.

Results and discussion

The main results demonstrated that rapeseed detection for 1 year, using training data from another year within the same site, achieved high accuracy, with F1 scores ranging from 85.5% to 97% for RF and from 88.2% to 98.3% for InceptionTime. When classifying using one-year training data from one site to classify another year in a different site, F1 scores varied between 48.8% and 97.7% for both RF and InceptionTime. Using a three year training dataset from one site to classify rapeseed fields in another site resulted in F1 scores ranging from 82.7% to 97.8% with RF and from 88.7% to 97.1% with InceptionTime. The proposed alignment method, designed to enhance classification using training and test data from different sites, improved F1 scores by up to 46.7%. These findings confirm the feasibility of mapping rapeseed with S1 images across various sites and years, highlighting its potential for both national and international agricultural monitoring initiatives.
Pharmacokinetics of a single oral administration of two cannabidiol formulations in fed and fasted horses
Authors: Di Salvo Alessandra , Bazzano Marilena , Rocca Giorgia della , Galarini Roberta , Marchegiani Andrea , Paoletti Fabiola , Giusepponi Danilo , Mantovani Matteo , Laus Fulvio
Published: February 2025

Pain management in horses plays a pivotal role in the therapeutic approach to several diseases. Horses have cannabinoid receptors at the level of dorsal root ganglia, blood vessels, and synoviocytes that can be up or down- regulated by inflammatory conditions, justifying the possible efficacy of exogenous cannabinoids (i.e., phytocannabinoids) in managing several painful pathologies in this animal species. However, the current use of supplements containing cannabidiol (CBD) in equines is based on anecdotal evidence, without the support of sufficient pharmacokinetic studies. In humans, the concentration peak of CBD and the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) are both strongly influenced by food administration. Also, in equids, the oral bioavailability of some drugs can be influenced by the meal but no information is available about CBD. This study investigated the pharmacokinetics of CBD following single oral administration of two different formulations of pure CBD (oil and paste), dosed at 1 mg/kg, at two different times about food administration. CBD oil and CBD paste were administered orally at 1 mg/kg to eight healthy horses according to a cross over design, and blood samples were taken at pre-fixed time-points for the pharmacokinetic analyses. The obtained pharmacokinetic data did not allow for statistically significant differences between formulations (paste or oil) and feeding time (fed and fasted status). However, following treatment with the paste, the Cmax was achieved in a shorter time range compared to the oily formulation, indicating that it could be a better formulation to consider in future equine studies.