bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic pharmacology-based strategy to investigate the mechanism of beta-sitosterol for the treatment of rheumarthritis
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Mao Jingxin
Published: December 2024

Objective: β-Sitosterol, which is derived from Vladimiriae Radix (VR), is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the pharmacological mechanisms through which β-sitosterol affects RA have not been fully elucidated.

Methods: Through the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology and Analysis (TCMSP), PubChem, SwissTargetPrediction, GeneCards, DisGeNET, and OMIM databases, “β-sitosterol-RA”-related genes were obtained, and a target protein interaction network (protein–protein interaction [PPI]) was constructed. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were carried out for the intersecting genes. Discovery Studio 2019 software was used to perform molecular docking on MMP9, CASP3, HSP90AA1, SRC, EGFR, and ALB genes. β-Sitosterol was co-cultured with MH7A cells in three experimental groups: control group (DMSO), positive drug group (methotrexate, 80 μmol/L), and drug intervention group (10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 μmol/L β-sitosterol). The CCK8 method was used to investigate the inhibitory effect of β-sitosterol on the proliferation of MH7A cells. RT-PCR was used to analyze the mRNA expression of the abovementioned core targets.

Results: A total of 41 genes associated with β-sitosterol and RA were obtained, mainly involving the FoxO signaling pathway and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The molecular docking results suggested that β-sitosterol could bind effectively to six core targets. The experimental results showed that β-sitosterol could significantly inhibit the excessive proliferation of MH7A cells (p< 0.05). The RT-PCR results showed that the expression of MMP9, HSP90AA1, SRC, EGFR, and ALB core genes in the control group was significantly upregulated, while the CASP3 gene was downregulated. Compared to the control group, the mRNA expression of MMP9, HSP90AA1, SRC, EGFR, and ALB decreased (p< 0.01), while the apoptosis-related gene CASP3 increased in both the drug intervention (80 μmol/L β-sitosterol) and positive drug groups (80 μmol/L methotrexate).

Conclusion: Hence, β-sitosterol could contribute to the inhibition of RA by modulating cell proliferation and regulating the aforementioned six core proteins, potentially through the regulation of the FoxO and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.
Heterogeneous immune landscapes and macrophage dynamics in primary and lung metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Wang Xuelian , Ma Tingyao , Liu Hongfei , Zhang Shujing , Yang Guoliang , Zhao Yue , Kong Lu , Gao Ran , Chen Xiaohong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Recurrent or metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the head and neck is rare and highly aggressive. Due to the ineffectiveness of immune checkpoint therapies, this study aims to investigate the tumor immune microenvironment of primary tumor tissues and lung metastatic tissues and to comprehend the challenges of immunotherapy.

Methods

We analyzed RNA sequencing data and constructed immune landscapes from 25 primary tumors and 34 lung metastases. The data were then validated by immunohistochemistry and single-cell sequencing analysis.

Results

Compared to adjacent normal tissues, both primary and lung metastatic ACC showed low immune infiltration. Lung metastases had higher immune infiltration levels and antigen presentation scores but also higher T cell exclusion and dysfunction scores. Single-cell sequencing data and immunohistochemistry revealed abundant immunosuppressive tumor-associated macrophages in lung metastases. Patients with high M2 macrophage infiltration had shorter lung metastasis-free survival.

Discussion

Primary and lung metastatic ACC exhibit heterogeneous tumor immune microenvironments. Higher immune cell infiltration in lung metastases is countered by the presence of suppressive tumor-associated macrophages, which may limit effective anti-tumor responses.
SON-1010: an albumin-binding IL-12 fusion protein that improves cytokine half-life, targets tumors, and enhances therapeutic efficacy
Authors: Cini John K. , Kenney Richard T. , Dexter Susan , McAndrew Stephen J. , Eraslan Rukiye-Nazan , Brody Rich , Rezac Darrel J. , Boohaker Rebecca , Lapi Suzanne E. , Mohan Pankaj
Published: December 2024

Background

Cytokines have been promising cancer immunotherapeutics for decades, yet only two are licensed to date. Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is a potent regulator of cell-mediated immunity that activates NK cells and interferon-γ (IFNγ) production. It plays a central role in multiple pathways that can enhance cancer cell death and modify the tumor microenvironment (TME). Attempts to dose rIL-12 were initially successful but IFNγ toxicity in Phase 2 complicated further development in the late 1990s. Since then, better dosing strategies have been developed, but none have achieved the level of cancer control seen in preclinical models. We set out to develop a novel strategy to deliver fully functional IL-12 and other biologics to the TME by binding albumin, taking advantage of its ability to be concentrated and retained in the tumor.

Methods

Single-chain variable fragments (scFv) were identified from a human phage display library that bound human, mouse, and cynomolgus macaque serum albumin, both at physiologic and acidic conditions. These were taken through a series of steps to identify strongly binding molecules that don’t interfere with the normal physiology of albumin to bind FcRn, giving it prolonged half-life in serum, along with SPARC/GP60, which allows albumin to target the TME. A final molecule was chosen and a single mutation was made that minimizes the potential for immunogenicity. This fully human albumin-binding (FHAB®) domain was characterized and manufacturing processes were developed to bring the first drug candidate into the clinic.

Results

Once identified, the murine form of mIL12-FHAB was studied preclinically to understand its mechanism of action and biodistribution. It was found to be much more efficient at blocking tumor growth compared to murine IL-12, while stimulating significant IFNγ production with minimal toxicity. SON-1010, which uses the human IL-12 sequence, passed through all of the characterization and required toxicology and is currently being studied in the clinic.

Conclusions

We identified and developed a platform technology with prolonged half-life that can target IL-12 and other immune modulators to the TME. Safety and efficacy are being studied using SON-1010 as monotherapy and in combination with checkpoint blockade strategies.
Self-delivering RNAi immunotherapeutic PH-762 silences PD-1 to generate local and abscopal antitumor efficacy
Authors: Cuiffo Benjamin , Maxwell Melissa , Yan Dingxue , Guemiri Ramdane , Boone Andrew , Bellet Deborah , Rivest Brianna , Cardia James , Robert Caroline , Fricker Simon P.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Immunotherapeutic inhibition of PD-1 by systemically administered monoclonal antibodies is widely used in cancer treatment, but it may cause severe immune-related adverse events (irSAEs). Neoadjuvant PD-1 inhibition before surgery has shown promise in reducing recurrence by stimulating durable antitumor immunity. Local intratumoral (IT) immunotherapy is a potential strategy to minimize irSAEs, but antibodies have limited tumor penetration, making them less suitable for this approach. Therapeutic self-delivering RNAi (INTASYL) is an emerging modality well-suited for neoadjuvant immunotherapy. This study presents preclinical proof-of-concept for PH-762, an INTASYL designed to silence PD-1, currently in clinical development for advanced cutaneous malignancies (ClinicalTrials.gov#NCT06014086).

Methods and analysis

PH-762 pharmacology was characterized in vitro, and in vivo antitumor efficacy was evaluated using a murine analogue (mPH-762) in syngeneic tumor models with varying PD-1 responsiveness. Bilateral Hepa1-6 models assessed abscopal effects of local treatment. Ex vivo analyses explored mechanisms of direct and abscopal efficacy.

Results

PH-762 was rapidly internalized by human T cells, silencing PD-1 mRNA and decreasing PD-1 surface protein, enhancing TCR-stimulated IFN-γ and CXCL10 secretion. In vivo, IT mPH-762 provided robust antitumor efficacy, local and lymphatic biodistribution, and was well tolerated. Ex vivo analyses revealed that IT mPH-762 depleted PD-1 protein, promoted leukocyte and T cell infiltration, and correlated with tumor control. IT mPH-762 also demonstrated efficacy against untreated distal tumors (abscopal effect) by priming systemic antitumor immunity.

Conclusion

These data support PH-762 as a promising candidate for neoadjuvant immunotherapy in clinical studies.
From promise to practice: CAR T and Treg cell therapies in autoimmunity and other immune-mediated diseases
Authors: Bulliard Yannick , Freeborn Robert , Uyeda Molly Javier , Humes Daryl , Bjordahl Ryan , de Vries David , Roncarolo Maria Grazia
Published: December 2024

Autoimmune diseases, characterized by the immune system’s attack on the body’s own tissues, affect millions of people worldwide. Current treatments, which primarily rely on broad immunosuppression and symptom management, are often associated with significant adverse effects and necessitate lifelong therapy. This review explores the next generation of therapies for immune-mediated diseases, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell and regulatory T cell (Treg)-based approaches, which offer the prospect of targeted, durable disease remission. Notably, we highlight the emergence of CD19-targeted CAR T cell therapies, and their ability to drive sustained remission in B cell-mediated autoimmune diseases, suggesting a possible paradigm shift. Further, we discuss the therapeutic potential of Type 1 and FOXP3+ Treg and CAR-Treg cells, which aim to achieve localized immune modulation by targeting their activity to specific tissues or cell types, thereby minimizing the risk of generalized immunosuppression. By examining the latest advances in this rapidly evolving field, we underscore the potential of these innovative cell therapies to address the unmet need for long-term remission and potential tolerance induction in individuals with autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases.
Unsupervised learning of nanoindentation data to infer microstructural details of complex materials
Authors: Zhang Chen , Bos Clémence , Sandfeld Stefan , Schwaiger Ruth
Published: December 2024

In this study, Cu-Cr composites were studied by nanoindentation. Arrays of indents were placed over large areas of the samples resulting in datasets consisting of several hundred measurements of Young’s modulus and hardness at varying indentation depths. The unsupervised learning technique, Gaussian mixture model, was employed to analyze the data, which helped to determine the number of “mechanical phases” and the respective mechanical properties. Additionally, a cross-validation approach was introduced to infer whether the data quantity was adequate and to suggest the amount of data required for reliable predictions–one of the often encountered but difficult to resolve issues in machine learning of materials science problems.
A systematic review of engineering properties of magnesium potassium phosphate cement as a repair material
Authors: Dabarera Arosha , Fernández Raúl , Provis John L.
Published: December 2024

Magnesium phosphate cement (MPC) is known as a high-performing rapid repair material for concretes in practice, and has also become a fast-moving research area for other applications, although its application has not yet reached its full potential. MPC has been utilized as a repair material in certain applications, although it is still less commonly used/recommended than the most popular and standardized repair materials. Therefore, it is important to systematically investigate the suitability of this material in the construction sector as a repair material. This review provides an in-depth summary of the engineering properties of magnesium potassium phosphate cements (MKPCs), as a particular example of MPCs that do not suffer from the undesirable release of ammonia which is observed in some other MPC formulations. Key properties relevant to the use of MKPCs as repair materials, from the fresh state to the hardened state are systematically examined. On this basis, the suitability of MKPC as a potential repair material is explored, highlighting the state-of-the-art practices, challenges and drawbacks in engineering applications, and future perspectives.
The effect of Torreya grandis inter-cropping with Polygonatum sibiricum on soil microbial community
Authors: Wang Quanchao , Peng Xiaojie , Yuan Yuxuan , Zhou Xudong , Huang Jianqin , Wang Haonan
Published: December 2024

Background

Inter-cropping is a reasonable planting pattern between different plants. Inter-cropping of Torreya grandis with Polygonatum sibiricum is a relatively mature planting pattern in China, which has been applied to improve soil ecological environment and reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases in China. However, there is currently limited knowledge on the response of soil microbial communities to this practice.

Methods

In this study, we employed Illumina MiSeq sequencing coupled with Functional Annotation of Prokaryotic Taxa (FAPROTAX) and Fungi Functional Guild (FUNGuild) analyses to investigate the dynamic changes in soil microbial communities across seven treated groups [the bulk soil of the T. grandis inter-cropping with P. sibiricum (IB), the bulk soil for mono-cropping of P. sibiricum (PB), the bulk soil for mono-cropping of T. grandis (TB), the P. grandis rhizosphere soil of the T. grandis inter-cropping with P. sibiricum (IPR), the rhizosphere soil for mono-cropping of P. sibiricum (PR), the T. grandis rhizosphere soil of the T. grandis inter-cropping with P. sibiricum (ITR), and the rhizosphere soil for mono-cropping of T. grandis (TR)].

Results

The results showed that the rhizosphere soil of Torreya-Polygonatum inter-cropping exhibited higher microbial community richness, diversity and evenness than mono-cropping (ITR > TR, IPR > PR). Inter-cropping increased the abundance of Micrococcaceae, Xanthobacteraceae, Saitozyma, while decreased Bacillus, Burkholderia, Streptomyces, Cladosporium, and Gibberella significantly of the rhizosphere soil of T. grandis. Further, the abundance of pathogens, such as Fusarium and Neocosmospora, was higher in mono-cropping samples compared to inter-cropping. There existed distinct variations in bacterial and fungal communities among all groups except for IB and TB. The FAPROTAX and FUNGuild analyses results indicated that inter-cropping significantly enhanced soil microbial function associated with nutrient cycling and exhibited a consistent increase in the relative abundance of nitrogen-cycling and carbon-cycling bacteria, and decreased the abundance of plant pathogen guild in the inter-cropping sample ITR compared to the mono-cropping TR.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that T. grandis inter-cropping with P. sibiricum not only enhance the diversity of soil microbial communities, but also improve the nitrogen and carbon cycling functions. In addition, the inter-cropping can effectively reduce the relative abundance of some soil-borne pathogens for T. grandis and P. sibiricum, indicating that this intercropping method may alleviate the impact of pathogens on crops, thus providing assistance for plant disease prevention and sustainable management.
DBS in the restoration of motor functional recovery following spinal cord injury
Authors: Li Wen-yuan , Qu Wen-rui , Li Yi , Wang Shu-ying , Liu Dong-ming , Deng Ling-xiao , Wang Ying
Published: December 2024

The landscape of therapeutic deep brain stimulation (DBS) for locomotor function recovery is rapidly evolving. This review provides an overview of electrical neuromodulation effects on spinal cord injury (SCI), focusing on DBS for motor functional recovery in human and animal models. We highlight research providing insight into underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. A literature review via Web of Science and PubMed databases from 1990 to May 29, 2024, reveals a growing body of evidence for therapeutic DBS in SCI recovery. Advances in techniques like optogenetics and whole-brain tractogram have helped elucidate DBS mechanisms. Neuronal targets sites for SCI functional recovery include the mesencephalic locomotor region (MLR), cuneiform nucleus (CNF), and nucleus raphe magnus (NRG), with pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN), periaqueductal gray (PAG), and nucleus ventroposterolateral thalami (VPL) for post-injury functional recovery treatment. Radiologically guided DBS optimization and combination therapy with classical rehabilitation have become an effective therapeutic method, though ongoing interventional trials are needed to enhance understanding and validate DBS efficacy in SCI. On the pre-clinical front, standardization of pre-clinical approaches are essential to enhance the quality of evidence on DBS safety and efficacy. Mapping brain targets and optimizing DBS protocols, aided by combined DBS and medical imaging, are critical endeavors. Overall, DBS holds promise for neurological and functional recovery after SCI, akin to other electrical stimulation approaches.
Long-term prognostic factors and outcomes in mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes: a clinical and biochemical marker analysis
Authors: Gao Rui , Gu Lihua , Zuo Wenchao , Wang Pan
Published: December 2024

Background

MELAS (Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes) is a common subtype of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy. However, few studies have explored the relationship between biochemical markers and prognosis. This study aimed to explore the relationship between clinical and biochemical markers and prognosis of patients with MELAS.

Methods

This was a retrospective single-center study. A total of 39 MELAS patients were followed for an average of 7.3 ± 4.7 (range 1–21 years). All patients underwent detailed demographic registration, neurological examinations, biochemical and mitochondrial DNA analyses, muscle biopsy. Throughout the follow-up period, the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores, recurrent strokes rates, and mortality were tracked.

Results

All patients initially presented with stroke-like episodes. Of the 39 subjects who were followed, 8 died, primarily due to acute stroke-like episodes and status epilepticus. Univariate analysis showed a higher risk of mortality in patients with severe lactate elevation compared to those with normal and mildly elevated levels (OR = 5.714, 95% CI 1.086–30.071, p = 0.040). While the absence of anemia was associated with a lower risk of death compared to those with anemia (OR = 0.175, 95% CI 0.033–0.921, p = 0.040). In multivariate analysis, severe lactate elevation (OR = 7.279, 95% CI 1.102–48.086, p = 0.039) and anemia (OR = 0.137, 95% CI 0.021–0.908, p = 0.039) were identified as independent predictors of mortality. MRS scores were categorized as follows: 41% of patients scored 0 to 2, 38.5% scored 3 to 5, and 20.5% had a score of 6 or had died. There was a positive correlation between lactic acid levels and MRS scores (r = 0.460, p = 0.003). In contrast, hemoglobin levels were negatively correlated with MRS scores (r = −0.375, p = 0.015). Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between MRS scores and the frequency of stroke-like episodes (r = 0.280, p = 0.042).

Conclusion

Our study found that the majority of patients with MELAS had poor clinical outcomes. Anemia and significantly increased lactate levels were identified as indicators of poor prognosis in MELAS. Early intervention may lead to improvements in clinical outcomes.
Neuroanatomical correlates of language impairment in non-fluent variant of primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Akhmadullina Diliara R. , Konovalov Rodion N. , Shpilyukova Yulia A. , Nevzorova Kseniya V. , Fedotova Ekaterina Yu. , Illarioshkin Sergey N.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Non-fluent variant of primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA) is a neurodegenerative disorder with a predominantly speech and language impairment. Apraxia of speech and expressive agrammatisms along with decreased speech fluency and impaired grammar comprehension are the most typical disorder manifestations but with the course of the disease other language disturbances may also arise. Most studies have investigated these symptoms individually, and there is still no consensus on whether they have similar or different neuroanatomical foundations in nfvPPA. In addition, only few works have focused on the functional connectivity correlates. The aim of our study was to simultaneously investigate functional and structural brain-language associations in one group of nfvPPA.

Methods

Twenty eight patients were enrolled and underwent brain MRI and language assessment. Apraxia of speech, expressive and receptive agrammatisms, repetition, naming and single word comprehension correlates were identified using voxel-based morphometry and resting-state functional MRI (ROI-to-ROI analysis).

Results and discussion

Among the structural correlates, the most common were inferior frontal gyrus (was associated with fluency, both expressive and receptive agrammatisms) and supramarginal gyrus (apraxia of speech, receptive agrammatisms, naming and repetition). Apart from that, neuroanatomical foundations were different for each of the core nfvPPA language domains, including superior parietal lobule involvement in fluency, temporoparietal areas in receptive agrammatisms and supplemental motor area in apraxia of speech. Functional correlations were even more diverse. In general, connectivity decrease between temporoparietal structures was more typical for expressive and receptive agrammatisms, single word comprehension and naming, while apraxia of speech, fluency and repetition showed connectivity disruption mainly among the frontoparietal region and subcortical structures. Overall, extensive structural and functional changes are involved in the development of language and speech disturbances in nfvPPA with distinctive neuroanatomical foundations for each domain.
Teacher stress in social interactions in the light of polyvagal theory. An ambulatory assessment approach to teachers’ heart rate and heart rate variability
Authors: Kühne Fabienne , Wettstein Alexander , Jenni Gabriel , Schneider Ida , grosse Holtforth Martin , La Marca Roberto
Published: December 2024

Background

Teaching is a genuinely social and highly demanding task. Drawing on Porges’ phylogenetic polyvagal theory with three evolved systems and three associated behavioral responses (social engagement, mobilization, and immobilization), we investigated teachers’ heart rate and heart rate variability in social interactions using ambulatory assessments.

Methods

We continuously measured heart rate and heart rate variability of 42 apparently healthy teachers on a work and leisure day with ambulatory electrocardiogram. We videotaped four consecutive, same-day lectures of each teacher. We trained observers to code student aggression and frontal teaching behaviors in an event sampling procedure with the behavior observation system for analyzing aggressive behavior in school settings. Additionally, perceived teacher-student relationship, social support from other teachers / school management, occupational complaints, and vital exhaustion were assessed by teacher self-reports.

Results

Teachers showed an increased heart rate and a decreased heart rate variability on a workday compared to a leisure day, anticipatory stress before classes, as well as insufficient recovery during lunchtime. Observed student aggression and high proportion of frontal teaching were associated with lower heart rate variability, while better perceived teacher-student relationship was correlated with higher heart rate variability. Differently, teachers’ psychological strain and heart rate variability were unrelated to each other.

Conclusion

Corresponding to polyvagal theory, results suggest that successful social interactions are fundamental for teachers’ favorable cardiological reactions.
A role for the midbrain reticular formation in delay-based decision making
Authors: Jo Yong Sang , Pyeon Gyeong Hee , Mizumori Sheri J. Y.
Published: December 2024

In many real-life situations, decisions involve temporal delays between actions and their outcomes. During these intervals, waiting is an active process that requires maintaining motivation and anticipating future rewards. This study aimed to explore the role of the midbrain reticular formation (MRF) in delay-based decision-making. We recorded neural activity in the MRF while rats performed delay discounting and reward discrimination tasks, choosing between a smaller, sooner reward and a larger, later reward. Our findings reveal that MRF neurons are integral to maintaining motivation during waiting periods by encoding both the anticipated size and the discounted value of delayed rewards. Furthermore, the inactivation of the MRF led to a significant reduction in the rats’ willingness to wait for delayed rewards. These results demonstrate the MRF’s function in balancing the trade-offs between reward magnitude and timing, providing insight into the neural mechanisms that support sustained motivation and decision-making over time.
Advances in the study of the role of high-frequency mutant subunits of the SWI/SNF complex in tumors
Authors: Zhao Jiumei , Zhu Jing , Tang Yu , Zheng Kepu , Li Ziwei
Published: December 2024

SWI/SNF (Switch/Sucrose non-fermentable, switch/sucrose non-fermentable) chromatin remodeling complex is a macromolecular complex composed of multiple subunits. It can use the energy generated by the hydrolysis of ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) to destroy the connection between DNA and histones, achieve the breakdown of nucleosomes, and regulate gene expression. SWI/SNF complex is essential for cell proliferation and differentiation, and the abnormal function of its subunits is closely related to tumorigenesis. Among them, ARID1A, an essential non-catalytic subunit of the SWI/SNF complex, can regulate the targeting of the complex through DNA or protein interactions. Moreover, the abnormal function of ARID1A significantly reduces the targeting of SWI/SNF complex to genes and participates in critical intracellular activities such as gene transcription and DNA synthesis. As a catalytic subunit of the SWI/SNF complex, SMARCA4 has ATPase activity that catalyzes the hydrolysis of ATP to produce energy and power the chromatin remodeling complex, which is critical to the function of the SWI/SNF complex. The study data indicate that approximately 25% of cancers have one or more SWI/SNF subunit genetic abnormalities, and at least nine different SWI/SNF subunits have been identified as having repeated mutations multiple times in various cancers, suggesting that mutations affecting SWI/SNF subunits may introduce vulnerabilities to these cancers. Here, we review the mechanism of action of ARID1A and SMARCA4, the two subunits with the highest mutation frequency in the SWI/SNF complex, and the research progress of their targeted therapy in tumors to provide a new direction for precise targeted therapy of clinical tumors.
Life-style and metabolic factors do not affect risk for glioma: a prospective population-based study (The Cohort of Norway)
Authors: Gheorghiu Anamaria , Brunborg Cathrine , Johannesen Tom B. , Helseth Eirik , Zwart John-Anker , Wiedmann Markus K. H.
Published: December 2024

Background

The identification of modifiable risk factors for intracranial glioma remains a significant challenge. While lifestyle factors and metabolic syndrome are well-established risk factors for various other cancers, their association with glioma risk remains unclear.

Objectives

This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of lifestyle factors and metabolic factors in relation to glioma risk.

Methods

The Cohort of Norway (CONOR) is a prospective, population-based health survey encompassing anthropometric measurements, blood tests and health questionnaires. CONOR data were linked to the National Cancer Registry to identify incident glioma cases. Follow-up time was calculated in person-years from the baseline examination until the date of glioma diagnosis, death, or the end of the follow-up period. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HR).

Results

The study cohort included 160,938 women and men. Over 2.8 million person-years of follow-up, 319 intracranial gliomas were diagnosed. Lifestyle factors such as physical activity, alcohol consumption, smoking, and marital status were not associated with glioma risk. There was no increased glioma risk among participants with diabetes mellitus or hypertension. Furthermore, metabolic syndrome in both women and men was not associated with an elevated risk of glioma. Blood lipids, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL, were not linked to glioma risk. However, increasing LDL levels were associated with a decreased risk of glioma in men (HR per category 0.84; 95% CI 0.74-0.96), but not in women.

Conclusion

This is the first comprehensive prospective cohort study to evaluate potentially modifiable risk factors for glioma. Our findings do not support previously suggested associations between smoking, alcohol consumption, or metabolic syndrome and glioma risk.
Design and thermal performance analysis of self-insulation concrete compound blocks
Authors: Xiao Qidan , Deng Hui , Gao Bo , Zhao Jun
Published: December 2024

More than 60% of energy losses occur through the building envelope. Exterior wall insulation technology is widely used for wall insulation, but it is prone to cracking, falling off, and causing fires. Self-insulation concrete compound blocks (SIB) have attracted considerable attention in recent years for meeting building energy efficiency standards without the need for external insulation treatment. In this study, the shale ceramsite concrete (SCC) was prepared as the base material for the blocks through the orthogonal test and range analysis. In accordance with the insulation requirements of residential building walls, 12 types of self-insulation concrete compound blocks (SIB) were designed. The heat transfer process of these blocks was simulated and analyzed using Ansys Workbench, enabling a comparison of the thermal conductivity effects resulting from different hole distribution schemes in the insulation blocks. The simulated values were compared with the theoretical calculations, and the simulated results were in good agreement with the theoretical calculations. The results showed that TZ-12 exhibited the optimal hole configuration with a heat transfer coefficient of 0.5 W/(m2·K), which was 38.3% lower than that of the external insulation block TZ-9. Additionally, TZ-12 demonstrated the average compressive strength of 8.28 MPa and the minimum compressive strength of 7.45 MPa, meeting the requirements for MU7.5 strength grade and also satisfying the requirement of not less than MU5.0 when self-insulation blocks were used for external walls. The simulated heat flux rate of the self-insulation concrete compound block wall (SIBW) was 15.4 W, and its heat transfer coefficient was 0.56 W/(m2·K), which was 29.1% lower than that of the external thermal insulation wall (ETIW), meeting the design standard for achieving the 65% energy saving in residential buildings situated in regions with hot summers and cold winters.
Bibliometric analysis of research trends in agricultural soil organic carbon components from 2000 to 2023
Authors: Ge Guolong , Chen Xuanyi , Ma Hexiao , Zhang Xiangqian , Shi Jingjing , Wang Xiaoxiang , Zhao Xiaoqing , Wang Manxiu , Xian Feng , Lu Zhanyuan , Cheng Yuchen
Published: December 2024

Soil organic carbon is a vital component of the soil carbon pool. Investigation of its composition and dynamics is crucial for enhancing carbon sequestration in soils and for stabilizing the global carbon cycle. In recent years, considerable research has focused on the interactions between soil organic carbon components and their responses to varied land use and agricultural practices. However, the mechanism of soil organic carbon sequestration and response characteristics of soil organic carbon components to soil carbon pools are still subject to some debate. To the best of our knowledge, no researchers have used bibliometric analyses to explore the field of soil organic carbon components. This study thus involved the use of bibliometric techniques to identify research hotspots in the study of organic carbon components over the last 23 years and future trends in research development. Specifically, we performed a comprehensive literature review of 607 documents pertaining to organic carbon components using the Web of Science database, covering the period from 2000 to 2023. Employing CiteSpace, we visualized and analyzed the data across national, institutional, disciplinary, and keyword dimensions. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive, systematic, and quantitative analysis of publications pertaining to organic carbon component research. The results indicate that researchers in the United States and China have substantially influenced the study of soil organic carbon components. Since 2000, the United States has pioneered the study of soil organic carbon components, establishing a foundational role in this field of research. Meanwhile, China leads with the largest number of publications and the most diverse research directions in this field. Among the institutions involved in such research, the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences has the highest number of publications. The investigation of soil organic carbon components within agricultural systems is inherently multidisciplinary, with the most comprehensive research being performed within the soil sciences discipline. At present, the focal areas of research on soil organic carbon components predominantly revolve around the impacts of straw return to fields, varying land-use changes, restoration of vegetation, and the reciprocal effects of soil organic carbon components on the restoration of vegetation. The findings of this work highlight the research hotspots within the field of soil organic carbon components and the emerging trends within this field. This work offers novel insights into the dynamics of soil organic carbon components, potentially guiding future studies in this vital field.
Compulsive sexual behavior, sexual functioning problems, and their linkages to substance use among German medical students: exploring the role of sex and trauma exposure
Authors: Jepsen Dennis , Luck Tobias , Heckel Christian , Niemann Jana , Winter Kristina , Watzke Stefan
Published: December 2024

Sexual problems relevant to psychotherapy, such as compulsive sexual behavior (CSB) and sexual functioning problems (SFP), have been related to harmful substance use in several studies. Substance use is prevalent among medical students (MS) and is often considered a maladaptive coping strategy for stress, as well as a risk factor for mental health issues. Sexual problems and substance use share trauma exposure and post-traumatic symptoms as risk factors for their development. This study aimed to explore the interaction effects between problematic sexual behaviors, substance use, and trauma among German MS. A cross-sectional study (n = 359; 69% women, 29% men) was conducted using an online questionnaire. MS at a German university were recruited via email. CSB (CSBD-19), SFP (SBQ), harmful alcohol (AUDIT) and drug use (DAST), childhood trauma exposure (CTQ), and current post-traumatic symptoms (IES-R) were assessed. Multivariate linear and ordinal regressions, as well as path analyses, were conducted to investigate associations between the study variables. CSB was identified in 3% of all MS. The most commonly reported SFPs were decreased sexual desire and difficulties achieving orgasms among women and premature ejaculation among men. Higher CSBD scores were predicted by male sex, elevated AUDIT scores, and increased frequencies of hyperarousal (IES-R). Path analyses revealed associations between the severity of emotional/sexual abuse, the intensity of post-traumatic symptoms, and both CSBD and AUDIT scores. Among female MS, less severe emotional abuse and more severe physical abuse in childhood predicted higher frequencies of orgasmic difficulties. The frequency of SFPs was correlated with the use of benzodiazepines among female MS, with cannabis and MDMA/ecstasy among male MS, and with cocaine/crack, speed, and AUDIT among both sexes. No interaction effects were found between SFPs, substance use, or trauma-related factors in the path analyses. To some extent, there appears to be a relationship between substance use, childhood trauma exposure, and currently persisting post-traumatic symptoms with problematic sexual behaviors among MS. However, further research is required to explore these relationships in greater depth and to identify the underlying pathways. Mental health support measures should incorporate the factors of sexuality, substance use, and trauma while also exploring their relationships with workload, career-related anxieties, and other curriculum-related factors.
Character strengths as predictors of general and academic self-efficacy in university students
Authors: García-Álvarez Diego , Cobo-Rendón Rubia , Lobos Karla
Published: December 2024

Positive psychology has introduced the concept of character strengths, which are positive traits fundamental to well-being and mental health. Research on university students has shown that these strengths impact psychoeducational variables and personal functioning, acting as a protective factor in the general and student populations. This study aims to analyze the predictive relationships between character strengths and general self-efficacy and determine their joint contribution in predicting academic self-efficacy. The study was quantitative, correlational-causal, and cross-sectional, using a non-probabilistic sample of 668 Venezuelan university students (68.86% women, average age of 20.52 years). The scales used are Growing Strong to measure character strengths, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Self-Efficacy Scale in Specific Academic Situations. All scales showed adequate psychometric properties. The mediation analysis revealed that leadership, hope, and persistence positively influence general and academic self-efficacy. Furthermore, general self-efficacy strongly impacts academic self-efficacy. In conclusion, character strengths are significant predictors of self-efficacy in university students. Promoting these strengths may be crucial to improving general and academic self-efficacy, suggesting the need to implement specific initiatives in higher education.
Structural MRI correlates of cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms in Long COVID: a pilot study
Authors: Joshi Shantanu H. , Siddarth Prabha , Lavretsky Helen
Published: December 2024

Approximately 7% of COVID-19 patients (1.3% children) have exhibited symptoms of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), or Long COVID, and 20% of those present with neuropsychiatric symptoms. While a large number of MRI-based neuroimaging studies in this population have shown cortical atrophy in terms of gray matter volume and cortical thickness in patients, there is a growing body of work showing brain volume enlargements or thickness increases in patients compared to COVID negative controls. To investigate this further, we used structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine differences in gray matter thickness for the cortical limbic and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortical regions between patients with Long COVID and healthy controls. Results showed increased cortical thickness in the caudal anterior, isthmus, and the posterior cingulate gyrus as well as the rostral middle frontal gyrus respectively along with higher gray matter volume in the posterior cingulate and the isthmus cingulate in patients with Long COVID. Cortical thickness and gray matter volumes for regions of interest (ROIs) were also associated with the severity measures, clinical dementia rating, and anxiety scores in the Long COVID group. Our findings provide supporting evidence for cortical hypertrophy in Long COVID.
Effects of non-invasive brain stimulation on emotion regulation in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review
Authors: Shen Fang , Zhou Hui
Published: December 2024

Background and objective

A growing body of research evidence suggests that many patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have difficulties with emotion regulation. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), which mainly includes transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), has been considered a potential new direction in the treatment of emotion dysregulation in ADHD patients. The key components of tES are transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). However, there is no systematic evaluation exploring the effects of non-invasive brain stimulation on emotion regulation in ADHD patients. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to summarize the effects of NIBS on emotion regulation in ADHD patients.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library electronic databases up to 1 July 2024. We also hand-searched the reference lists of retrieved articles and reviews. Assessing risk of bias using the Cochrane Assessment Tool.

Results

Through database search, we obtained a total of 1134 studies, of which 5 met the inclusion criteria. Statistically significant improvements in emotion regulation in children with ADHD were observed in 1 study after treatment with tDCS. In the remaining 4 studies (2 with tDCS and 2 with rTMS), there were no statistically significant changes in emotion regulation in ADHD patients after treatment with either tDCS or rTMS.

Conclusions

The data from our preliminary study do not allow us to draw definitive conclusions that non-invasive brain stimulation improves emotion regulation in ADHD patients. This is because there is a paucity of literature on the effects of tES or rTMS on emotion regulation in ADHD patients and a limited number of randomized controlled trials. More high-quality multicenter randomized controlled trials exploring the efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation on emotion regulation in ADHD patients are needed in the future to provide strong evidence for definitive conclusions before it can be considered as a potential treatment option.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024569041.
Supporting children’s wellbeing through outdoor time: opportunities to integrate consistent outdoor time into the elementary school day
Authors: Patchen Amie K. , Edwards Amanda , Rakow Donald A. , Meredith Genevive R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Time in nature supports cognitive, psychological, academic, and health benefits. Outdoor time during school can provide young people with equitable access to these benefits, however, there are within-school constraints. Understanding if and how teachers can frequently and consistently incorporate outdoor time in the schoolyard into their classroom activities can inform broader implementation.

Methods

A mixed-methods observational study was conducted with 17 teachers from five elementary schools. Teachers reported on how they incorporated outdoor time into their classes over an eight-week period. Data on outdoor time, activities, locations, barriers, motivations, and facilitators were collected through surveys on 15 randomly pre-selected days, and through a post-survey.

Results

On the 15 randomly selected days surveyed, classes went outside 78% of the time, ranging from 6–15 outdoor days per class, and 0–285 min per day. Time, activities, locations, motivations, barriers, and facilitators varied across classes and days. The most common activities were free play (n = 138) and intentional engagement with nature (n = 57). Health benefits (n = 68) and having time (n = 58) were the most common motivations teachers reported for incorporating outdoor time.

Implications for school health, policy, practice, and equity

Consistent outdoor time in the school day can support students’ wellbeing and academic success. Encouraging free play, highlighting the health benefits, using a systems approach, and flexible implementation may help teachers increase their use of outdoor time during the school day.

Conclusion

Teachers consistently incorporated outdoor time, but implementation varied across classes and days. Implementation findings from this district could help inform practices at other schools.
Robust deep-learning based refrigerator food recognition
Authors: Dai Xiaoyan
Published: December 2024

Automatic food identification utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technology in smart refrigerators presents an innovative solution. However, existing studies exhibit significant limitations. Achieving consistent high performance in recognition across varying camera distances and diverse real-world conditions remain a formidable challenge. Current approaches often struggle to accurately recognize items in scenarios involving occlusions, variable distortions, and complex backgrounds, thereby limiting their practical applicability in household environments. This study addresses these deficiencies by enhancing the Feature Pyramid Network (FPN) of YOLACT with an additional layer designed to capture nuanced information. Furthermore, we propose a two-stage data augmentation method that simulates diverse conditions including distortion and occlusion, to generate images that reflect various backgrounds and handheld scenarios. Comparative analyses with previous research and evaluations on our original dataset demonstrate that our approach significantly improves recognition rates for both typical and challenging real-world images. These enhancements contribute to more effective food waste management in households and indicate broader applications for automatic identification systems.