bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated With HIV Preventive Behavior Among Adults in Majang Zone of Gambella Region, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yosef Tewodros , Wondimu Wondimagegn , Nigussie Tadesse , Asefa Adane , Qanche Qaro , Mekonnen Besufekad , Mesafint Gebremeskel , Shifera Nigusie , Amsalu Hailemariam , Bekele Bayu Begashaw
Published: April 2022

Background

HIV-positive people can spread the virus through unprotected sex; however, HIV can be avoided if populations are educated about the risks. In underdeveloped nations, evidence suggests that the ABC method for HIV prevention is quite effective. As a result, the goal of this study was to determine the magnitude of HIV prevention behavior among adults in the Majang zone of Southwest Ethiopia, as well as the factors that influence it.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out from March 1st to May 31st, 2019. The data were collected through a face-to-face interview using a modified validated questionnaire among systematically selected study participants. The collected data were coded and entered using Epidata manager version 4.0.2.101 and analyzed using SPSS version 21. A logistic regression analysis was computed to determine the association using crude and adjusted odds ratios at 95% confidence intervals. The level of significance was declared at a p-value less than 0.05.

Results

Of the 772 adults interviewed, the proportion of adults who had good HIV preventive behavior was 51.8%, 95% CI [48.3–55.3%]. Two hundred forty (31.9%) were used abstinence as a type of HIV preventive behavior followed by being faithful (16.1%) and consistent condom use (7.3%). The study also found that respondents with the age group ≥27 years old (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.3–3.12]), marital status (being married (AOR = 6.30, 95% CI [4.48–11.4]), and divorced/widowed (AOR = 5.50, 95% CI [2.60–12.4]) and having good knowledge of HIV prevention methods (AOR = 2.18, 95% CI [1.71–4.00]) were the factors associated with good HIV preventive behavior.

Conclusion and Recommendation

In the study area, overall HIV prevention behavior was average. The characteristics linked with successful HIV prevention behavior among adults in the Majang community included increasing age, being married or divorced/widowed, and having a solid understanding of HIV prevention approaches. As a result, policy-level and multi-sectorial intervention approaches from all stakeholders are necessary to develop short- and long-term strategies to address the problem and improve the community’s quality of life.
Concomitant Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis and Cytomegalovirus Disease: A Case Based Systemic Review
Authors: Rolsdorph Linn Åsholt , Mosevoll Knut Anders , Helgeland Lars , Reikvam Håkon
Published: April 2022

Background

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is an immune mediated life-threatening condition. It is driven by an overactivation of the immune system and causes inflammatory tissue damage potentially leading to organ failure and death. Primary HLH is caused by genetic mutations, while secondary HLH is triggered by external factors. Viral infections are a well-known cause of secondary HLH. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a virus in the herpes family known to cause HLH in rare cases.

Methods

We report a recent case of CMV-induced HLH, followed by a systematic review of described cases of this rare disease entity, through a structured search in the medical database PubMed. All articles were assessed on a predetermined set of inclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 74 patients (age > 18 years) with CMV-related HLH were identified, 29 men, 42 women, and three patients with unspecified gender. Median age was 37.5 years (range 18–80). Sixty-six patients (88%) had one or more comorbid conditions and 22 patients (30%) had inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the most frequent comorbidity. Forty patients (54%) received some form of immunomodulating treatment prior to HLH development. The general treatment approach was in general dual, consisting of antiviral treatment and specific immunomodulating HLH treatment approaches. Treatment outcome was at 77% survival, while 23% had fatal outcome.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the importance of early diagnostic work up and treatment intervention. Ability to recognize the characteristic clinical traits and perform specific HLH diagnostic workup are key factors to ensure targeted diagnostic work and treatment intervention for this patient group.
Radio-Histological Correlation of Lung Features in Severe COVID-19 Through CT-Scan and Lung Ultrasound Evaluation
Authors: Trias-Sabrià Pere , Dorca Duch Eduard , Molina-Molina Maria , Aso Samantha , Díez-Ferrer Marta , Marín Muñiz Alfredo , Bordas-Martínez Jaume , Sabater Joan , Luburich Patricio , del Rio Belén , Solanich Xavier , Dorca Jordi , Santos Salud , Suárez-Cuartin Guillermo
Published: April 2022

Background

Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can develop severe bilateral pneumonia leading to respiratory failure. Lung histological samples were scarce due to the high risk of contamination during autopsies. We aimed to correlate histological COVID-19 features with radiological findings through lung ultrasound (LU)-guided postmortem core needle biopsies (CNBs) and computerized tomography (CT) scans.

Methodology

We performed an observational prospective study, including 30 consecutive patients with severe COVID-19. The thorax was divided into 12 explorations regions to correlate LU and CT-scan features. Histological findings were also related to radiological features through CNBs.

Results

Mean age was 62.56 ± 13.27 years old, with 96.7% male patients. Postmortem LU-guided CNBs were performed in 13 patients. Thirty patients were evaluated with both thoracic LU and chest CT scan, representing a total of 279 thoracic regions explored. The most frequent LU finding was B2-lines (49.1%). The most CT-scan finding was ground-glass opacity (GGO, 29%). Pathological CT-scan findings were commonly observed when B2-lines or C-lines were identified through LU (positive predictive value, PPV, 87.1%). Twenty-five postmortem echo-guided histological samples were obtained from 12 patients. Histological samples showed diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) (75%) and chronic interstitial inflammation (25%). The observed DAD was heterogeneous, showing multiple evolving patterns of damage, including exudative (33.3%), fibrotic (33.3%), and organizing (8.3%) phases. In those patients with acute or exudative pattern, two lesions were distinguished: classic hyaline membrane; fibrin “plug” in alveolar space (acute fibrinous organizing pneumonia, AFOP). C-profile was described in 33.3% and presented histological signs of DAD and lung fibrosis. The predominant findings were collagen deposition (50%) and AFOP (50%). B2-lines were identified in 66.7%; the presence of hyaline membrane was the predominant finding (37.5%), then organizing pneumonia (12.5%) and fibrosis (37.5%). No A-lines or B1-lines were observed in these patients.

Conclusion

LU B2-lines and C-profile are predominantly identified in patients with severe COVID-19 with respiratory worsening, which correspond to different CT patterns and histological findings of DAD and lung fibrosis.
Combined Nasal, Oropharyngeal Povidone Iodine Plus Glycyrrhizic Acid Sprays, Accelerate Clinical and Laboratory Recovery and Reduces Household Transmission of SARS-CoV-2: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Elsersy Hazem E. , Zahran Magdy A. H. , Elbakry Abd-Elazeem , Abd-Elwahab Mohamed , Ahmed Mohamed Milegy , Elgandy Mohamed Salah , Mohammed Eman H. M. , Elewa Nourhan M.
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is still posing challenging health and economic problems. Effective broad-spectrum antiviral therapy is urgently needed for the control of early SARS-CoV-2 infection to limit its spread and mutations. In this randomized placebo-controlled clinical study, we tested the effects of intranasal and oropharyngeal delivery of a compound of povidone-iodine 0.5% and glycyrrhizic acid 2.5 mg/ml on the laboratory (PCR) and clinical recovery from SARS-CoV-2 patients and their household contacts. 353 patients suspected of having COVID-19 infection were screened by chest CT and nasopharyngeal swab tests (PCR). 200 patients were randomly allocated to two equal groups: treatment and placebo groups. Treatment accelerated the recovery of PCR on days 4, 7, and 10, as evidenced by PCR-positive patients (70, vs. 99%, 20 vs. 65%, 1 vs. 10%) in both the treated and placebo groups, respectively. Treatment enhanced the early recovery of symptoms [day 7.6 ± 2 (CI 7:8.3) vs. 8.9 ± 2 (CI 8.3:9.6)]. Treatment promoted early recovery of anosmia and ageusia [5.6 ± 1 (CI, 4.8:6.4) vs. 11 ± 3 days, (CI, 10.8:12)] in both the treated and control groups (P < 0.0001). There was a notable reduction in transmission of the virus among the household close contacts in the treatment group (4%) vs. 76% in the placebo group. Combined PVI-GA nasal and oropharyngeal spray accelerates both laboratory and clinical recovery of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients in the early phases of the disease and reduces the household spread of the virus; thus, it may play an important role in controlling coronavirus outbreaks.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://pactr.samrc.ac.za, PACTR202101875903773.
Analysis of Gut Microbiota and Metabolites in Diannan Small Ear Sows at Diestrus and Metestrus
Authors: Guan Xuancheng , Zhu Junhong , Sun Haichao , Zhao Xiaoqi , Yang Minghua , Huang Ying , Pan Hongbin , Zhao Yanguang , Zhao Sumei
Published: April 2022

The physiological state of the host affects the gut microbes. The estrus cycle is critical to the reproductive cycle of sows. However, the association between gut microbes and animal estrus is poorly understood. Here, high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) non-targeted metabolome technology were used to study the estrous cycles in Diannan small ear pigs. Significantly different gut microbiota and metabolites of sows at estrous and diestrus were screened out and the correlation was analyzed. We found that the intestinal microbial composition and microbial metabolism of Diannan small ear sows were significantly different at diestrus and metestrus. The abundances ofSpirochaetes,Spirochaetia, Spirochaetales,Spirochaetaceae,Deltaproteobacteria,unidentified_Alphaproteobacteria,Ruminococcus_sp_YE281, andTreponema_berlinensein intestinal microorganisms of Diannan small ear sows at metestrus are significantly higher than that at diestrus. Propionic acid, benzyl butyrate, sucrose, piperidine, and 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR) were significantly enriched at metestrus compared with diestrus, which were involved in the energy metabolism-related pathways and activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway. At diestrus and metestrus, differential microbiota ofunidentified_Alphaproteobacteria,Intestinimonas,Peptococcus,Terrisporobacter, and differential metabolites of piperidine, propionic acid, and benzyl butyrate, sucrose, 4-methyl catechol, and AICAR exist a certain degree of correlation. Therefore,unidentified_Alphaproteobacteria,Ruminococcus_sp_YE281, andTreponema_berlinensemay have a potential role at metestrus of the Diannan small ear sows. AICAR may be apotential marker of estrus Diannan small ear sows feces, but further studies about the specific mechanism are needed. These findings provide a new perspective for sows production management and improving sows reproductive performance.
Analgesic and Anxiolytic Effects of Gastrodin and Its Influences on Ferroptosis and Jejunal Microbiota in Complete Freund’s Adjuvant-Injected Mice
Authors: Chen Xin , Wang Jinyue , He Zhixian , Liu Xin , Liu Huawei , Wang Xing
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the effects of gastrodin (GAS) on analgesic, anxiolytic, ferroptosis, and jejunal microbiota in chronic inflammatory pain mice. The chronic inflammatory pain model of C57BL/6J mice was established by hindpaw injection of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA). After GAS treatment, thermal hyperalgesia test, mechanical allodynia test, elevated plus-maze (EPMT), and open-field test (OFT) were performed to assess the behavioral changes of pain and anxiety. mRNAs of FTHI, GPX4, HO-1, and PTGS2 and jejunal microbiota were measured by qPCR. In CFA-injected C57BL/6 mice, we found that the mechanical and thermal pain threshold were increased with treatment of GAS. In EPMT, the number of entries in open arms and retention times of open arms were increased by GAS. In the OFT, the time spent in the central area was also increased. Furthermore, GAS enhanced mRNA expressions of FTHI, GPX4, and HO-1 but decreased the expression of PTGS2 in a dose-dependent manner. GAS is effective in the treatment of mice chronic inflammatory pain and anxiety-like behaviors. It may be exhibits potential neuroprotective effects through inhibition of ferroptosis independently of the intestinal microbiota.
Date Seeds Flour Used as Value-Added Ingredient for Wheat Sourdough Bread: An Example of Sustainable Bio-Recycling
Authors: Ameur Hana , Cantatore Vincenzo , Filannino Pasquale , Cavoski Ivana , Nikoloudaki Olga , Gobbetti Marco , Di Cagno Raffaella
Published: April 2022

Our study proposed date seeds flour (DSF) as an innovative ingredient for sourdough bread production through sustainable bio-recycling. We isolated autochthonous lactic acid bacteria and yeasts from DSF and DSF-derived doughs to build up a reservoir of strains from which to select starters ensuring rapid adaptation and high ecological fitness. The screening based on pro-technological criteria led to the formulation of a mixed starter consisting ofLeuconostoc mesenteroides,Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, andSaccharomyces cerevisiaestrains, which allowed obtaining a mature type I sourdough after consecutive refreshments, in which an aliquot of the durum wheat flour (DWF) was replaced by DSF. The resulting DSF sourdough and bread underwent an integrated characterization. Sourdough biotechnology was confirmed as a suitable procedure to improve some functional and sensory properties of DWF/DSF mixture formulation. The radical scavenging activity increased due to the consistent release of free phenolics. Perceived bitterness and astringency were considerably diminished, likely because of tannin degradation.
Comparative Genomics Revealed Fluoroquinolone Resistance Determinants and OmpF Deletion in Carbapenem-Resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Yang Wan-Ting , Chiu I-Ju , Huang Yao-Ting , Liu Po-Yu
Published: April 2022

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a major causative organism of complicated urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia. With the widespread use of antimicrobial agents, the prevalence of carbapenem resistance in E. coli has been increasing with limited therapeutic options. Fluoroquinolone remains a choice in carbapenem-resistant E. coli (CREc) that were once susceptible to the drug. Despite robust studies on the fluoroquinolone-resistant mechanisms of E. coli, few studies focused specifically on the group of CREc. In this study, we used comparative genomics to identify the fluoroquinolone-resistant mechanisms of CREc and detected gyrA D87N mutation in all the fluoroquinolone-resistant and CREc. Moreover, to investigate the mechanism underlying non-carbapenemase-producing carbapenem-resistant E. coli, we targeted the complete genome sequences for in-depth analysis and found a deletion in OmpF (DEL264-269) that might contribute to carbapenem resistance, which has not been reported before. Further studies focusing on the impact of these mutations on the expression levels are warranted. We further investigate the MLST, serotype, fimH type, phylogroup, and clinical characteristics of the CREc. Combination analysis of clinical and genomic characteristics suggests the polyclonal and highly diverse nature of the CREc in Taiwan. This study provides an insight into the molecular epidemiology of CREc in Taiwan.
ROS-Influenced Regulatory Cross-Talk With Wnt Signaling Pathway During Perinatal Development
Authors: Chatterjee Sharmistha , Sil Parames C.
Published: April 2022

Over a century ago, it was found that a rapid burst of oxygen is needed and produced by the sea urchin oocyte to activate fertilization and block polyspermy. Since then, scientific research has taken strides to establish that Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), besides being toxic effectors of cellular damage and death, also act as molecular messengers in important developmental signaling cascades, thereby modulating them. Wnt signaling pathway is one such developmental pathway, which has significant effects on growth, proliferation, and differentiation of cells at the earliest embryonic stages of an organism, apart from being significant role-players in the instances of cellular transformation and cancer when this tightly-regulated system encounters aberrations. In this review, we discuss more about the Wnt and ROS signaling pathways, how they function, what roles they play overall in animals, and mostly about how these two major signaling systems cross paths and interplay in mediating major cellular signals and executing the predestined changes during the perinatal condition, in a systematic manner.
Genomics as a Clinical Decision Support Tool for Identifying and Addressing Modifiable Causes of Cognitive Decline and Improving Outcomes: Proof of Concept Support for This Personalized Medicine Strategy
Authors: Hausman-Cohen Sharon , Bilich Carol , Kapoor Sandeep , Maristany Eduardo , Stefani Anne , Wilcox Alexandra
Published: April 2022

The landscape of therapeutics for mild cognitive impairment and dementia is quite limited. While many single-agent trials of pharmaceuticals have been conducted, these trials have repeatedly been unable to show improvement in cognition. It is hypothesized that because Alzheimer’s, like many other chronic illnesses, is not a monogenic illness, but is instead caused by the downstream effects of an individual’s genetic variants interacting with each other, the environment, and lifestyle, that improving outcomes will require a personalized, precision medicine approach. This approach requires identifying and then addressing contributing genomic and other factors specific to each individual in a simultaneous fashion. Until recently, the utility of genomics as part of clinical decision-making for Alzheimer’s and cognitive decline has been limited by the lack of availability of a genomic platform designed specifically to evaluate factors contributing to cognitive decline and how to respond to these factors The clinical decision support (CDS) platform used in the cases presented focuses on common variants that relate to topics including, but not limited to brain inflammation, amyloid processing, nutrient carriers, brain ischemia, oxidative stress, and detoxification pathways. Potential interventions based on the scientific literature were included in the CDS, but the final decision on what interventions to apply were chosen by each patient’s physician. Interventions included supplements with “generally regarded as safe (GRAS)” rating, along with targeted diet and lifestyle modifications. We hypothesize that a personalized genomically targeted approach can improve outcomes for individuals with mild cognitive impairment who are at high risk of Alzheimer’s. The cases presented in this report represent a subset of cases from three physicians’ offices and are meant to provide initial proof of concept data demonstrating the efficacy of this method and provide support for this hypothesis. These patients were at elevated risk for Alzheimer’s due to their apolipoprotein E ε4 status. While further prospective and controlled trials need to be done, initial case reports are encouraging and lend support to this hypothesis of the benefit of a genomically targeted personalized medicine approach to improve outcomes in individuals with cognitive decline who are at high risk for Alzheimer’s.
Microglia: The Hub of Intercellular Communication in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhang Yunsha , Lian Lu , Fu Rong , Liu Jueling , Shan Xiaoqian , Jin Yang , Xu Shixin
Published: April 2022

Communication between microglia and other cells has recently been at the forefront of research in central nervous system (CNS) disease. In this review, we provide an overview of the neuroinflammation mediated by microglia, highlight recent studies of crosstalk between microglia and CNS resident and infiltrating cells in the context of ischemic stroke (IS), and discuss how these interactions affect the course of IS. The in-depth exploration of microglia-intercellular communication will be beneficial for therapeutic tools development and clinical translation for stroke control.
Potential Biomarkers of Acute Ischemic Stroke Etiology Revealed by Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomic Characterization of Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Blood Clots
Authors: Rossi Rosanna , Mereuta Oana Madalina , Barbachan e Silva Mariel , Molina Gil Sara , Douglas Andrew , Pandit Abhay , Gilvarry Michael , McCarthy Ray , O'Connell Shane , Tierney Ciara , Psychogios Klearchos , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Szikora István , Tatlisumak Turgut , Rentzos Alexandros , Thornton John , Ó Broin Pilib , Doyle Karen M.
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

Besides the crucial role in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS), mechanical thrombectomy represents a unique opportunity for researchers to study the retrieved clots, with the possibility of unveiling biological patterns linked to stroke pathophysiology and etiology. We aimed to develop a shotgun proteomic approach to study and compare the proteome of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) cardioembolic and large artery atherosclerotic (LAA) clots.

Methods

We used 16 cardioembolic and 15 LAA FFPE thrombi from 31 AIS patients. The thrombus proteome was analyzed by label-free quantitative liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). MaxQuant v1.5.2.8 and Perseus v.1.6.15.0 were used for bioinformatics analysis. Protein classes were identified using the PANTHER database and the STRING database was used to predict protein interactions.

Results

We identified 1,581 protein groups as part of the AIS thrombus proteome. Fourteen significantly differentially abundant proteins across the two etiologies were identified. Four proteins involved in the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, blood coagulation or plasminogen activating cascade were identified as significantly abundant in LAA clots. Ten proteins involved in the ubiquitin proteasome-pathway, cytoskeletal remodeling of platelets, platelet adhesion or blood coagulation were identified as significantly abundant in cardioembolic clots.

Conclusion

Our results outlined a set of 14 proteins for a proof-of-principle characterization of cardioembolic and LAA FFPE clots, advancing the proteome profile of AIS human thrombi and understanding the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke.
Modified Protocol for Establishment of Intracranial Arterial Dolichoectasia Model by Injection of Elastase Into Cerebellomedullary Cistern in Mice
Authors: Liu Fei Xiang , Niu Yu Ge , Zhang Dao Pei , Zhang Huai Liang , Zhang Zhen Qiang , Sun Rui Qin , Zhang Yun Ke
Published: April 2022

Background and Purpose

This study aimed to construct an animal model of intracranial arterial dolichoectasia (IADE) applying the modified modeling protocol.

Materials and Methods

Twenty five milliunits elastase and inactivated elastase were, respectively, injected into the cerebellomedullary cistern of 60 C57/BL6 mice which were divided into experimental group (EG, n = 30) and control group (CG, n = 30) by using a computer-based random order generator. The modified modeling protocol clarified these aspects including brain three-dimensional parameters of mouse head fixation, angle of head inclination, fixed position of taper ear, needle holding technique, needle entry depth, prevention of liquid drug back flow, and storage conditions of elastase. And it was observed for the following parts such as mortality, inflammatory factors, craniocerebral arteries scanning, vascular tortuosity index, artery diameter, pathology of the cerebrovascular.

Results

Within differently surveyed stage, the total mortality of mice in EG was 20%. ELISA illustrated that the levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in peripheral blood were increased significantly after modeling. Angiography indicated that 100% of IADE in EG were observed and the diameter and tortuosity index of the basilar artery were significantly increased (P < 0.01). EVG histological processing and staining showed the disrupted internal elastic lamina, the atrophied muscle layer, and the hyalinized connective tissue of the basilar artery with the vascular wall tunica media in EG. Micro-computed tomography reported that the craniocerebral arteries of the mice in EG were outstandingly elongated, tortuous, and dilated.

Conclusion

The modified modeling protocol can reduce the mortality, improve the success rate, and provide a stable animal model for IADE.
Atypical Functional Connectivity During Unfamiliar Music Listening in Children With Autism
Authors: Freitas Carina , Hunt Benjamin A. E. , Wong Simeon M. , Ristic Leanne , Fragiadakis Susan , Chow Stephanie , Iaboni Alana , Brian Jessica , Soorya Latha , Chen Joyce L. , Schachar Russell , Dunkley Benjamin T. , Taylor Margot J. , Lerch Jason P. , Anagnostou Evdokia
Published: April 2022

Background

Atypical processing of unfamiliar, but less so familiar, stimuli has been described in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), in particular in relation to face processing. We examined the construct of familiarity in ASD using familiar and unfamiliar songs, to investigate the link between familiarity and autism symptoms, such as repetitive behavior.

Methods

Forty-eight children, 24 with ASD (21 males, mean age = 9.96 years ± 1.54) and 24 typically developing (TD) controls (21 males, mean age = 10.17 ± 1.90) completed a music familiarity task using individually identified familiar compared to unfamiliar songs, while magnetoencephalography (MEG) was recorded. Each song was presented for 30 s. We used both amplitude envelope correlation (AEC) and the weighted phase lag index (wPLI) to assess functional connectivity between specific regions of interest (ROI) and non-ROI parcels, as well as at the whole brain level, to understand what is preserved and what is impaired in familiar music listening in this population.

Results

Increased wPLI synchronization for familiar vs. unfamiliar music was found for typically developing children in the gamma frequency. There were no significant differences within the ASD group for this comparison. During the processing of unfamiliar music, we demonstrated left lateralized increased theta and beta band connectivity in children with ASD compared to controls. An interaction effect found greater alpha band connectivity in the TD group compared to ASD to unfamiliar music only, anchored in the left insula.

Conclusion

Our results revealed atypical processing of unfamiliar songs in children with ASD, consistent with previous studies in other modalities reporting that processing novelty is a challenge for ASD. Relatively typical processing of familiar stimuli may represent a strength and may be of interest to strength-based intervention planning.
Multiparametric Intraoperative Ultrasound in Oncological Neurosurgery: A Pictorial Essay
Authors: Prada Francesco , Ciocca Riccardo , Corradino Nicoletta , Gionso Matteo , Raspagliesi Luca , Vetrano Ignazio Gaspare , Doniselli Fabio , Del Bene Massimiliano , DiMeco Francesco
Published: April 2022

Intraoperative ultrasound (ioUS) is increasingly used in current neurosurgical practice. This is mainly explained by its affordability, handiness, multimodal real-time nature, and overall by its image spatial and temporal resolution. Identification of lesion and potential residue, analysis of the vascularization pattern, and characterization of the nature of the mass are only some of the advantages that ioUS offers to guide safe and efficient tumor resection. Technological advances in ioUS allow to achieve both structural and functional imaging. B-mode provides high-resolution visualization of the lesion and of its boundaries and relationships. Pioneering modes, such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), ultrasensitive Doppler, and elastosonography, are tools with great potential in characterizing different functional aspects of the lesion in a qualitative and quantitative manner. As already happening for many organs and pathologies, the combined use of different US modalities offers new insights in a multiparametric fashion. In this study, we present the potential of our multiparametric approach for ioUS during neuro-oncological surgery. In this effort, we provide a pictorial essay focusing on the most frequent pathologies: low- and high-grade gliomas, meningiomas, and brain metastases.
Cognition and Its Shaping Effect on Sexual Conflict: Integrating Biology and Psychology
Authors: Álvarez Beatriz , Koene Joris M.
Published: April 2022

While genetic variation is of crucial importance for organisms to be able to adapt to their ever-changing environments over generations, cognitive processes can serve the same purpose by acting at shorter time scales. Cognition, and its resulting behaviour, allows animals to display flexible, fast and reversible responses that, without implying a genetic change, are crucial for adaptation and survival. In the research field on sexual conflict, where studies focus on male and female mating strategies that increase the individual’s reproductive fitness while forcing a cost on the partner, the role that cognition may play in how such strategies can be optimised has been widely overlooked. However, a careful analysis of behavioural studies shows that animals can develop and change their responses depending on what they perceive as well as on what they can predict from their experience, which can be of prime importance for optimising their reproductive fitness. As will be reviewed here, largely psychological processes, such as perception, memory, learning and decision-making, can not only modulate sexual conflict, but can also have a big impact on the reproductive success of a given individual. This review highlights the need for a more integrative view of sexual conflict where cognitive processes are also considered as a fundamental part of an animal’s adaptive mating response.
The Association Between Hyperuricemia and Obesity Metabolic Phenotypes in Chinese General Population: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Feng Xiaojing , Yang Yanyi , Xie Huiqi , Zhuang Siqi , Fang Yiyuan , Dai Yufeng , Jiang Ping , Chen Hongzhi , Tang Haoneng , Tang Lingli
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Serum uric acid (UA) not only affects the development of obesity but also alters the metabolic status in obese subjects; thus we investigated the relationship between serum UA and the overweight/obese metabolic phenotypes.

Methods

The demographic, biochemical, and hematological data were collected for 12,876 patients undergoing routine physical examination, and 6,912 participants were enrolled in our study. Participants were classified into four obesity metabolic phenotypes according to their BMI and the presence of metabolic syndrome: metabolically healthy overweight/obese (MHOO), metabolically healthy and normal weighted (MHNW), metabolically abnormal and overweight/obese (MAOO), and metabolically abnormal but normal weighted (MANW). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, stratified analysis, and also interaction analysis were conducted to analyze the relationship between serum UA and obesity metabolic phenotypes.

Results

Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that hyperuricemia was positively associated with MHOO, MANW, and MAOO phenotypes relative to MHNW. After adjusting for the confounding factors, the odds ratios (OR) for individuals with hyperuricemia to be MHOO, MANW, and MAOO phenotypes were 1.86 (1.42–2.45), 2.30 (1.44–3.66), and 3.15 (2.34–4.24), respectively. The ORs for having MHOO, MANW, and MAOO increased 6% [OR: 1.06 (1.05–1.07), P < 0.0001], 5% [OR: 1.05 (1.03–1.07), P < 0.0001], and 11% [OR: 1.11 (1.10–1.13), P < 0.0001] for each 10 unit (μmol/L) of increase in serum UA level. Stratification analysis as well as an interaction test showed that sex and age did not interfere with the association of hyperuricemia with each metabolic phenotype. In terms of the components of the metabolic syndrome, after adjusting for other confounding factors including all of the metabolic indicators except itself, hyperuricemia was positively associated with increased BMI [OR: 1.66 (1.32–2.09), P < 0.0001], hypertriglyceridemia [OR: 1.56 (1.21–2.02), P = 0.0006], and hypertension [OR: 1.22 (1.03–1.46), P = 0.0233], while it had no significant association with hyperglycemia and low HDL-C (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

In our study, we discovered that hyperuricemia was positively associated with MHOO, MANW, and MAOO phenotypes, and this relationship was independent of sex and age.
The Texture of Camel Milk Cheese: Effects of Milk Composition, Coagulants, and Processing Conditions
Authors: Mbye Mustapha , Ayyash Mutamed , Abu-Jdayil Basim , Kamal-Eldin Afaf
Published: April 2022

Numerous people in African, Middle Asian, Middle Eastern, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries highly value camel milk (CM) as it plays a vital role in their diet. The protein composition of CM as well as the structure of its casein micelles differs significantly from bovine milk (BM). Cheeses made from CM have a weak curd and soft texture compared to those made from BM. This review article presents and discusses the effect of milk protein composition, processing conditions (pasteurization and high-pressure treatment), and coagulants (camel chymosin, organic acids, plant proteases) on the quality of CM cheeses. CM cheese's weak texture is due to compositional characteristics of the milk, including low κ-casein-to-β-casein ratio (≈0.05 in CM vs. ≈0.33 in BM), large micelle size, different whey protein components, and higher proteolytic activity than BM. CM cheese texture can be improved by preheating the milk at low temperatures or by high pressure. Supplementing CM with calcium has shown inconsistent results on cheese texture, which may be due to interactions with other processing conditions. Despite their structure, CM cheeses are generally well liked in sensory studies.
A Need for a Paradigm Shift in Healthy Nutrition Research
Authors: Aleta Alberto , Brighenti Furio , Jolliet Olivier , Meijaard Erik , Shamir Raanan , Moreno Yamir , Rasetti Mario
Published: April 2022

Research in the field of sustainable and healthy nutrition is calling for the application of the latest advances in seemingly unrelated domains such as complex systems and network sciences on the one hand and big data and artificial intelligence on the other. This is because the confluence of these fields, whose methodologies have experienced explosive growth in the last few years, promises to solve some of the more challenging problems in sustainable and healthy nutrition, i.e., integrating food and behavioral-based dietary guidelines. Focusing here primarily on nutrition and health, we discuss what kind of methodological shift is needed to open current disciplinary borders to the methods, languages, and knowledge of the digital era and a system thinking approach. Specifically, we advocate for the adoption of interdisciplinary, complex-systems-based research to tackle the huge challenge of dealing with an evolving interdependent system in which there are multiple scales—from the metabolome to the population level—, heterogeneous and—more often than not— incomplete data, and population changes subject to many behavioral and environmental pressures. To illustrate the importance of this methodological innovation we focus on the consumption aspects of nutrition rather than production, but we recognize the importance of system-wide studies that involve both these components of nutrition. We round off the paper by outlining some specific research directions that would make it possible to find new correlations and, possibly, causal relationships across scales and to answer pressing questions in the area of sustainable and healthy nutrition.
Predictive Value of Delta-Radiomics Texture Features in 0.35 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Setup Images Acquired During Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Simpson Garrett , Jin William , Spieler Benjamin , Portelance Lorraine , Mellon Eric , Kwon Deukwoo , Ford John C. , Dogan Nesrin
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to explore delta-radiomics texture features for predicting response using setup images of pancreatic cancer patients treated with magnetic resonance image guided (MRI-guided) stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SBRT).

Methods

The total biological effective dose (BED) was calculated for 30 patients treated with MRI-guided SBRT that delivered physical doses of 30–60 Gy in three to five fractions. Texture features were then binned into groups based upon BED per fraction by dividing BED by the number of fractions. Delta-radiomics texture features were calculated after delivery of 20 Gy BED (BED20 features) and 40 Gy BED (BED40 features). A random forest (RF) model was constructed using BED20 and then BED40 features to predict binary outcome. During model training, the Gini Index, a measure of a variable’s importance for accurate prediction, was calculated for all features, and the two features that ranked the highest were selected for internal validation. The two features selected from each bin were used in a bootstrapped logistic regression model to predict response and performance quantified using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). This process was an internal validation analysis.

Results

After RF model training, the Gini Index was highest for gray-level co-occurrence matrix-based (GLCM) sum average, and neighborhood gray tone difference matrix-based (NGTDM) busyness for BED20 features and gray-level size zone matrix-based (GLSZM) large zones low gray-level emphasis and gray-level run length matrix-based (GLRLM) run percentage was selected from the BED40-based features. The mean AUC obtained using the two BED20 features was AUC = 0.845 with the 2.5 percentile and 97.5 percentile values ranging from 0.794 to 0.856. Internal validation of the BED40 delta-radiomics features resulted in a mean AUC = 0.567 with a 2.5 and 97.5 percentile range of 0.502–0.675.

Conclusion

Early changes in treatment quantified with the BED20 delta-radiomics texture features in low field images acquired during MRI-guided SBRT demonstrated better performance in internal validation than features calculated later in treatment. Further analysis of delta-radiomics texture analysis in low field MRI is warranted.
Using New Vaginal Doses Evaluation System to Assess the Dose–Effect Relationship for Vaginal Stenosis After Definitive Radio(Chemo)Therapy for Cervical Cancer
Authors: Wang Juan , Zhang Kai-shuo , Liu Zi , Wang Tao , Wang Rui-hua , Zhang Fu-quan , Yu Lang , Wang Ya-li , Wei Li-chun , Shi Mei , Li Sha , Liu Bao-gang , Shi Fan , Su Jin , Yuan Wei , Zhang Qi ying , Zhang Jing
Published: April 2022

Objective

The study aims to investigate if a relationship exists between vaginal doses and vaginal stenosis (VS) using posterior–inferior border of symphysis (PIBS) points and the International Commission on Radiation Units-Rectum (ICRU-R) point evaluation system for definitive radio(chemo)therapy in locally advanced cervical cancer.

Methods and Materials

From a vaginal dose study in China, 351 patients were prospectively assessed. For every reference point of the PIBS system and ICRU-R point was calculated for all BT and summed with EBRT. Pearson’s chi-square test and Student’s unpaired t-test compared variables with and without vaginal stenosis (VS) G ≥2. The risk factors were assessed for VS G ≥2 in multi- and univariate analyses through Cox proportional hazards model followed by a dose–effect curve construction. The VS morbidity rate was compared via the log-rank test using the median vaginal reference length (VRL).

Results

The patients (38-month median follow-up) had 21.3% three-year actuarial estimate for VS G ≥2. Compared to G <2 patients, VS G ≥2 patients received higher doses to PIBS points except for PIBS − 2 and had significantly shorter VRL. VRL (HR = 1.765, P = 0.038), total EBRT and BT ICRU-R point dose (HR = 1.017, p = 0.003) were risk factors for VS. With VRL >4.6 cm, the 3-year actuarial estimate was 12.8% vs. 29.6% for VRL ≤4.6 cm. According to the model curve, the risks were 21, 30, and 39% at 75, 85, and 95 Gy, respectively (ICRU-R point dose).

Conclusions

PIBS system point doses correlated with late vaginal toxicity. VRL combined with both EBRT and BT dose to the ICRU-R point contribute to VS risk.
Cost-Effectiveness of Bevacizumab Biosimilar LY01008 Combined With Chemotherapy as First-Line Treatment for Chinese Patients With Advanced or Recurrent Nonsquamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Luo Xia , Liu Qiao , Zhou Zhen , Yi Lidan , Peng Liubao , Wan Xiaomin , Zeng Xiaohui , Tan Chongqing , Li Sini
Published: April 2022

Objective: To investigate whether LY01008, a locally developed bevacizumab biosimilar agent, is appropriate for widespread use among Chinese advanced or recurrent nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, our current study was designed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of first-line LY01008 combined with platinum-doublet chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system.

Material and Methods: This economic evaluation designed a Markov model to compare the healthcare cost and quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) of first-line LY01008 combined with chemotherapy versus first-line chemotherapy. Transition probabilities, including disease progression, survival, and adverse event (AE)-related discontinuation of first-line treatment, were estimated using data from the clinical trials. Costs and health utilities were derived from local databases, hospitals, and published literature. Our base case analysis and scenario analysis focused on the cost-effectiveness of chemotherapy combined with a clinical trial dosage (15 mg/kg every 3-week cycle) and a real-world dosage (7.5 mg/kg every 3-week cycle) of LY01008, respectively.

Results: In the base case analysis, first-line LY01008 combined with chemotherapy was associated with an increase of 0.48 QALYs in effectiveness and an increase of CNY 189,988 (US$ 26,240) in healthcare costs compared with first-line chemotherapy, resulting an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of CNY 375,425 (US$ 54,430)/QALY. In the scenario analysis, first-line LY01008 combined with chemotherapy was associated with a mean healthcare cost of CNY 265,060 (US$ 38,429), resulting an ICER of CNY 221,579 (US$ 32,125/QALY) between first-line LY01008 combined with chemotherapy versus first-line chemotherapy. The parameters that determine the cost of LY01008 have the greatest impact on the cost-effectiveness results.

Conclusion: From the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system, first-line LY01008 at a real-world dosage combined with chemotherapy is likely to represent a cost-effective strategy compared with first-line chemotherapy alone for Chinese advanced or recurrent nonsquamous NSCLC patients.
Decompositions of n-Partite Nonsignaling Correlation-Type Tensors With Applications
Authors: Bai Lihua , Xiao Shu , Guo Zhihua , Cao Huaixin
Published: April 2022

When an n-partite physical system is measured by n observers, the joint probabilities of outcomes conditioned on the observables chosen by the n parties form a nonnegative tensor, called an n-partite correlation tensor (CT). In this paper, we aim to establish some characterizations of nonsignaling and Bell locality of an n-partite CT, respectively. By placing CTs within the linear space of correlation-type tensors (CTTs), we prove that every n-partite nonsignaling CTT can be decomposed as a linear combination of all local deterministic CTs using single-value decomposition of matrices and mathematical induction. As a consequence, we prove that an n-partite CT is nonsignaling (resp. Bell local) if and only if it can be written as a quasi-convex (resp. convex) combination of the outer products of deterministic CTs, implying that an n-partite CT is nonsignaling if and only if it has a local hidden variable model governed by a quasi-probability distribution. As an application of these results, we prove that a CT is nonsignaling if and only if it can be written as a quasi-convex of two Bell local ones, revealing a close relationship between nonsignaling CTs and Bell local ones.
High Energetic Demand of Elite Rowing – Implications for Training and Nutrition
Authors: Winkert Kay , Steinacker Juergen M. , Koehler Karsten , Treff Gunnar
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Elite rowers have large body dimensions, a high metabolic capacity, and they realize high training loads. These factors suggest a high total energy requirement (TER), due to high exercise energy expenditure (EEE) and additional energetic needs. We aimed to study EEE and intensity related substrate utilization (SU) of elite rowers during rowing (EEEROW) and other (EEENON-ROW) training.

Methods: We obtained indirect calorimetry data during incremental (N = 174) and ramp test (N = 42) ergometer rowing in 14 elite open-class male rowers (body mass 91.8 kg, 95% CI [87.7, 95.9]). Then we calculated EEEROW and SU within a three-intensity-zone model. To estimate EEENON-ROW, appropriate estimates of metabolic equivalents of task were applied. Based on these data, EEE, SU, and TER were approximated for prototypical high-volume, high-intensity, and tapering training weeks. Data are arithmetic mean and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results: EEEROW for zone 1 to 3 ranged from 15.6 kcal·min−1, 95% CI [14.8, 16.3] to 49.8 kcal·min−1, 95% CI [48.1, 51.6], with carbohydrate utilization contributing from 46.4%, 95% CI [42.0, 50.8] to 100.0%, 95% CI [100.0, 100.0]. During a high-volume, a high-intensity, or a taper week, TER was estimated to 6,775 kcal·day−1, 95% CI [6,651, 6,898], 5,772 kcal·day−1, 95% CI [5,644, 5,900], or 4,626 kcal∙day−1, 95% CI [4,481, 4,771], respectively.

Conclusion: EEE in elite open-class male rowers is remarkably high already during zone 1 training and carbohydrates are dominantly utilized, indicating relatively high metabolic stress even during low intensity rowing training. In high-volume training weeks, TER is presumably at the upper end of the sustainable total energy expenditure. Periodized nutrition seems warranted for rowers to avoid low energy availability, which might negatively impact performance, training, and health.