bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International diet quality index and revised diet quality index relationship with type 2 diabetes disease: a case-control study
Authors: El-Sehrawy Amr Ali Mohamed Abdelgawwad , Mukhlif Bilal AbdulMajeed , Oghenemaro Enwa Felix , Rekha M. M. , Kumawat Rohit , Sharma Shilpa , Kumar M. Ravi , Shalaby Nagat Salah , Abosaoda Munthar Kadhim , Kadhim Abed J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health crisis linked to increased cardiovascular risk. Research indicates that better dietary quality—higher intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and lower intake of processed foods—reduces T2DM risk. This study examines the relationship between T2DM and dietary quality indices (DQI-I and DQI-R) to determine if adherence can lower diabetes risk. By analyzing dietary patterns in individuals with and without diabetes, the research aims to identify key nutritional factors influencing disease risk and provide evidence-based dietary recommendations for prevention and management.

Methods

This case-control study involved 128 T2DM patients and 256 controls, assessing dietary intake with a validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire to calculate the Dietary Quality Index-I (DQI-I) and Dietary Quality Index-R (DQI-R). Multivariable logistic regression analysis explored the relationship between DQI-I, DQI-R, and their components with T2DM development odds.

Results

The mean (SD) age and body mass index (BMI) of participants, comprising 53.7% men, were 37.8 (7.8) years and 27.7 (3.3) kg/m2, respectively. In the final model, each standard deviation increase in the DQI-I score was associated with reduced odds of T2DM (odds ratio [OR] = 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.37–0.92; p = 0.046). Among the components of the DQI-I, a high adequacy score was significantly correlated with lower odds of T2DM (OR = 0.13; 95% CI = 0.05–0.36; p < 0.001). Additionally, participants in the highest tertile of the DQI-R score exhibited lower odds of T2DM compared to those in the lowest tertile (OR = 0.29; 95% CI = 0.11–0.49; p < 0.001). Furthermore, within the components of the DQI-R, a high moderation score was associated with a decreased risk of T2DM (OR = 0.19; 95% CI = 0.09–0.45; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The case-control study suggests a potential protective effect of diets with higher scores on the Diet Quality Index-International (DQI-I) and Revised Diet Quality Index (DQI-R) in reducing T2DM risk. Future research should focus on larger sample sizes and prospective designs to further investigate the DQI-I, DQI-R, and their components in relation to T2DM and other chronic diseases.
NutriBase – management system for the integration and interoperability of food- and nutrition-related data and knowledge
Authors: Valenčič Eva , Beckett Emma , Bucher Tamara , Collins Clare E. , Koroušić Seljak Barbara
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Contemporary data and knowledge management and exploration are challenging due to regular releases, updates, and different types and formats. In the food and nutrition domain, solutions for integrating such data and knowledge with respect to the FAIR (Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability) principles are still lacking.

Methods

To address this issue, we have developed a data and knowledge management system called NutriBase, which supports the compilation of a food composition database and its integration with evidence-based knowledge. This research is a novel contribution because it allows for the interconnection and complementation of food composition data with knowledge and takes what has been done in the past a step further by enabling the integration of knowledge. NutriBase focuses on two important challenges; data (semantic) harmonization by using the existing ontologies, and reducing missing data by semi-automatic data imputation made from conflating with existing databases.

Results and discussion

The developed web-based tool is highly modifiable and can be further customized to meet national or international requirements. It can help create and maintain the quality management system needed to assure data quality. Newly generated data and knowledge can continuously be added, as interoperability with other systems is enabled. The tool is intended for use by domain experts, food compilers, and researchers who can add and edit food-relevant data and knowledge. However, the tool is also accessible to food manufacturers, who can regularly update information about their products and thus give consumers access to current data. Moreover, the traceability of the data and knowledge provenance allows the compilation of a trustworthy management system. The system is designed to allow easy integration of data from different sources, which enables data borrowing and reduction of missing data. In this paper, the feasibility of NutriBase is demonstrated on Slovenian food-related data and knowledge, which is further linked with international resources. Outputs such as matched food components and food classifications have been integrated into semantic resources that are currently under development in various international projects.
The effects of low-carbohydrate diet on glucose and lipid metabolism in overweight or obese patients with T2DM: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Tian Wende , Cao Shuyu , Guan Yongxin , Zhang Zihao , Liu Qiyu , Ju Jianqing , Xi Ruixi , Bai Ruina
Published: January 2025

Background

The dual burden of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and obesity is a critical public health issue. Low-carbohydrate diets have emerged as a potential intervention, yet clinical evidence remains inconclusive.

Purpose

This meta-analysis assesses the impact of low-carbohydrate diets on metabolic profiles in overweight or obese T2DM patients, aiming to guide clinical practice.

Methods

A systematic review identified randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing low-carbohydrate diets to control diets in T2DM patients from PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases up to April 2023.

Results

Seventeen RCTs, encompassing 1,197 participants, demonstrated that low-carbohydrate diets significantly improved HbA1c levels and fasting plasma glucose (mean difference [MD] = −0.36, 95% CI −0.44 to −0.29, p < 0.00001; MD = −10.71, 95% CI −14.39 to −7.03, p < 0.00001). They also reduced triglycerides and increased HDL cholesterol (MD = −19.91, 95% CI −28.83 to −10.99, p < 0.00001; MD = 2.49, 95% CI 1.07–3.91, p = 0.0006), without affecting LDL and total cholesterol. Weight loss, reduced BMI, lower diastolic blood pressure, and decreased waist circumference were additional benefits.

Conclusion

Low-carbohydrate diets may enhance glycemic control and lipid profiles in overweight or obese T2DM patients, warranting consideration in T2DM management. However, the variability in diet definitions and methodologies underscores the necessity for further research to standardize dietary guidelines and evaluate long-term effects.
Outcome of critically ill patients receiving systemic chemotherapy on the intensive care unit
Authors: Karagiannis Panagiotis , Klingler Felix , Arelin Viktor , Alsdorf Winfried , König Christina , Roedl Kevin , Fiedler Walter , Weisel Katja , Kluge Stefan , Bokemeyer Carsten , Wichmann Dominic
Published: January 2025

Objective

Analyze the outcomes of critically ill patients who developed new-onset organ dysfunction and received systemic chemotherapy during their ICU stay.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A tertiary medical center in Germany with an Intensive Care Medicine department consists of 11 intensive care units comprising 140 beds, serving all subspecialties of adult intensive care medicine.

Patients

167 patients receiving systemic oncological treatment from January 1st, 2015 to December 31st, 2021, with a data cut-off on December 31st, 2022.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and main results

A total of 167 patients were included. The primary reasons for ICU admission were respiratory failure and shock/sepsis, each accounting for 34% of cases, while complications associated with oncological therapy accounted for less than 8%. The median age of hematological patients (n = 129) was 62 years (IQR 50–70), and for solid tumor patients (n = 38), it was 60 years (IQR 52–65). Predominant disease entities included lymphoma (43%) and acute myeloid leukemia (29%) among hematological patients, and lung cancer (47%) and gastrointestinal malignancies (17%) among solid tumor patients. Hematological patients had a significantly higher median Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (47 vs. 39 points; p=0.013), a higher need for invasive mechanical ventilation (59% vs. 50%; p=0.3), renal replacement therapy (54% vs. 24%; p < 0.001), and a higher 1-year mortality rate (64% vs. 53%; p=0.2) compared to solid tumor patients. The hazard ratio for 1 year survival for male sex was 2.34 (1.31–3.49), for mechanical ventilation 2.01 (1.33–3.04), for vasopressor therapy 1.98 (1.27–3.10), and for renal replacement therapy 1.51 (1.03–2.23), respectively.

Conclusion

Administering intravenous chemotherapy in an ICU setting remains challenging, and the experience to establish an indication for systemic chemotherapy is still challenging. However, the study demonstrates that, after careful interdisciplinary decision-making, a substantial number of patients can benefit from it.
Aurora kinase A promotes hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Dai Guanqi , Lin Junhao , Jiang Yuchuan , Liu Xinhui , Chen Peng , Zhang Yixiao , Song Zhenghui , Zhuang Xuefen , Cong Jinge , Li Yingchun , Hong Xuanjia , Liu Yun , Xiao Dong , Li Aimin , Luo Yue
Published: January 2025

Aims

Aurora kinase A (AURKA) has been implicated in promoting myeloid and renal fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the impact and underlying mechanism of AURKA on liver fibrosis and to assess the therapeutic potential of MLN8237, a small-molecule AURKA inhibitor, in preventing liver fibrosis in mice.

Methods

The research used bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemistry staining on fibrotic liver tissues from human and mouse models to assess AURKA expression. The cellular localization of AURKA was determined through double immunofluorescence staining in human fibrotic liver tissues and primary mouse hepatic stellate cells. RNA interference and AURKA antagonism were used to examine the effects of AURKA on liver fibrosis, while RNA-sequencing, qRT-PCR, and western blotting were employed to elucidate the potential molecular mechanisms of AURKA on hepatic stellate cell activation.

Results

The results showed that AURKA was positively correlated with the progression of liver fibrosis and was predominantly expressed in activated HSCs. Silencing AURKA inhibited HSC activation and proliferation, and induced HSC apoptosis, effects that were similar to those observed with MLN8237 treatment. Additionally, silencing AURKA suppressed the glycogen synthase kinase-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of AURKA phosphorylation also resulted in reduced liver fibrosis in vivo.

Conclusion

In conclusion, AURKA may promote HSC activation and liver fibrosis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.
Robot-assisted laparoscopic ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy for duplex kidneys in children: preliminary single-center experience
Authors: Yang Chao , Zhang Chi , Cao Yongsheng , Deng Qi-fei , Mao Changkun
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of robot-assisted laparoscopic ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy (RAL-IUU) in treating children with duplex kidney ureteral malformations by detailing our early single-center experience.

Materials and methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical data from 14 children with complete duplex kidney ureteral malformations treated with RAL-IUU at our institution from December 2021 to January 2024. Clinical data included patient demographics, surgical details, and postoperative outcomes.

Results

The operation time averaged 128.71 ± 22.35 min in 14 cases, intraoperative blood loss was 7.57 ± 2.77 ml, drainage tube placement lasted for 3.14 ± 0.66 days, and hospital stay averaged 4.79 ± 0.70 days. Stent placement lasted 43.58 ± 6.33 days. Notable changes were observed in the upper moiety anterior-posterior diameter (APD) before and after surgery (23.84 ± 8.05 mm vs. 6.71 ± 2.20 mm, P < 0.001), diameter at the widest part of the upper moiety ureter (15.58 ± 6.07 mm vs. 4.61 ± 0.78 mm, P < 0.001), and split renal function of the upper moiety (12.28 ± 3.04% vs. 16.50 ± 2.75%, P < 0.001). Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 18 months; during the period with a D-J stent, one case developed a urinary tract infection, one case had recurrent gross hematuria, and another child exhibited significant urinary irritative symptoms (frequency), with an abdominal plain film revealing that the D-J tube had descended completely into the bladder, and symptoms disappeared after the removal of the D-J tube. During the follow-up period post-D-J tube removal, none of the 14 children experienced a urinary tract infection again during the follow up period, urinary incontinence ceased.

Conclusion

RAL-IUU provides an excellent surgical field and operating space, precise suturing, and minimal surgical trauma. Postoperatively, there is a reduction in renal pelvis and ureteral hydronephrosis, recovery of split renal function, and minimal complications all with rapid recovery. RAL-IUU is a safe and feasible treatment option for children with complete duplex kidneys.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in children with pediatric congenital biliary dilatation associated with pancreatobiliary maljunction: experience from a tertiary center
Authors: Rollo Giovanni , Balassone Valerio , Faraci Simona , Torroni Filippo , Dall'Oglio Luigi , De Angelis Paola , Caldaro Tamara
Published: January 2025

Background

Congenital biliary dilatation (CBD) is a congenital malformation of the main biliary tract usually associated with the pancreatobiliary maljunction (PBM), determining stone formation, cholangitis, pancreatitis, and cholangiocarcinoma. The role of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in treatment and diagnosis has not been established yet. Therefore, the aim of our study is to define the actual role of ERCP in children with CBD.

Methods

A retrospective review of consecutive patients with congenital biliary dilatation undergoing preoperative ERCP and subsequent surgical treatment at our pediatric tertiary referral center (Endoscopy and Digestive Surgery, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy) was performed between 2012 and 2023.

Results

A total of 31 patients were included in the present study. Preoperative ERCP detected a PBM in 28 patients (90%). According to Todani's classification, 2 patients (6.5%) had choledochal cyst (CC) type IV, and 29 patients (93.5%) were diagnosed with CC type I. In 18 (58%) patients, ERCP was performed for treating acute pancreatitis. Sphincterotomy could be performed in 23 of 31 (74%) patients. Patients who did not undergo sphincterotomy had a higher number of acute episodes while awaiting surgery.

Conclusions

The present study is supportive of an essential role of ERCP in the diagnostic and preoperative management of children with CBD with acute presentation or inconclusive magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography findings.
Danlian-Tongmai formula improves diabetic vascular calcification by regulating CCN3/NOTCH signal axis to inhibit inflammatory reaction
Authors: Wang Wenting , Li Yiwen , Zhu Mengmeng , Xu Qian , Cui Jing , Liu Yanfei , Liu Yue
Published: January 2025

Background

Vascular calcification (VC) commonly occurs in diabetes and is associated with cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality. Currently, there is no drug treatment for VC. The Danlian-Tongmai formula (DLTM) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription used for diabetic VC (DVC), but its mechanisms of action remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the effects of DLTM on DVC and explore the underlying mechanisms of action.

Methods

Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) was used to identify the metabolites of DLTM. A DVC rat model was established using streptozotocin (STZ) combined with vitamin D3 (VitD3). The effects of DLTM on DVC were evaluated through alizarin red staining, calcium deposition, and changes in osteogenic and contractile markers. The specific molecular mechanism of DLTM in treating diabetic VC was comprehensively analyzed by transcriptomics, molecular docking and in vivo experimental verification.

Results

We identified 108 major metabolites of DLTM. In vivo, high-dose DLTM significantly alleviated VC in diabetic rats. Transcriptomic analysis showed that DLTM treatment markedly altered the transcriptomic profile of rat aortas, which was associated with regulating the CCN3/NOTCH signaling pathway, promoting vascular smooth muscle contraction, and inhibiting the inflammatory responses. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation demonstrated strong binding interactions between DLTM metabolites and key molecules within the CCN3/NOTCH pathway, including NOTCH1, DLL1, DLL4, hes1, and hey1. In vivo experiments confirmed that DLTM could upregulate CCN3, inhibit the activation of NOTCH signaling ligands DLL1 and downstream transcription factors hes1 and hey1, and reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines IL6, IL1β, and TNFα.

Conclusion

DLTM alleviates DVC by regulating the CCN3/NOTCH signaling axis to inhibit inflammatory responses. Our research provides experimental basis for clinical treatment and drug transformation of diabetic VC.
Applications of polymeric nanoparticles in drug delivery for glioblastoma
Authors: Liu Shuhan , Tan Bin , Wang Feng , Yu Ying
Published: January 2025

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant brain tumors, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches. Polymer-based nanotechnology has emerged as a promising solution, offering precise drug delivery, enhanced blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration, and adaptability to the tumor microenvironment (TME). This review explores the diverse applications of polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) in GBM treatment, including delivery of chemotherapeutics, targeted therapeutics, immunotherapeutics, and other agents for radiosensitization and photodynamic therapy. Recent advances in targeted delivery and multifunctional polymer highlight their potential to overcome the challenges that GBM brought, such as heterogeneity of the tumor, BBB limitation, immunosuppressive TME, and consideration of biocompatibility and safety. Meanwhile, the future directions to address these challenges are also proposed. By addressing these obstacles, polymer-based nanotechnology represents a transformative strategy for improving GBM treatment outcomes, paving the way for more effective and patient-specific therapies.
Metabolomics analysis of anaphylactoid reactions induced by Xueshuantong injection in normal and immunocompromised mice
Authors: Guo Xiaoqian , Zhang Chi , Li Yingyu , Wen Wen , He Yinghui , Tang Feng , Chen Chunming , Hu Chao , OuYang Linqi , Liu Wenlong , Zhu Zhenhua , Liu Hongyu
Published: January 2025

Background

Xueshuantong injection (Lyophilized) (XSTI) is widely used to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, anaphylactoid reactions (ARs) are frequently reported as one of its side effects, and the mechanisms of ARs and their relationship with the different immune status are still not well understood.

Purpose

This article aims to examine the sensitizing effect of XSTI, explore the impact of normal and immunocompromised states on ARs, and analyze AR-related metabolic pathways by metabolomics.

Methods

An immunocompromised mouse model was established through intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (CTX). Normal and immunocompromised mice were then treated with normal saline (NS), histamine (HIS), and XSTI, respectively. Behavioral responses, auricle blue staining, and Evans blue (EB) exudation were used as indices to evaluate the sensitization of XSTI on both normal and immunocompromised mice. Subsequently, ARs models with different immune statuses were established, and validated by measuring four serum indicators using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Finally, LC-MS metabolomics analysis was performed on mouse serum to evaluate the metabolic pathways.

Results

The intensity of ARs induced by XSTI in mice was found to increase with the administered dose, with normal mice exhibiting higher AR intensities compared to immunocompromised mice. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant metabolic changes in XSTI-treated mice. The metabolic pathways predicted from these different metabolites include biotin metabolism, histidine metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, bile secretion, arachidonic acid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, niacin and nicotinamide metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, and arginine and proline metabolism.

Conclusion

Research indicated that the sensitization of XSTI is dose-dependent, and mice with weakened immune functions exhibit lower sensitivity. Through metabolomics research, the differential metabolites in mice were analyzed, and the metabolic pathways inducing ARs were predicted. This study offers guidance on safe medication from the perspective of organism susceptibility and lays a foundation for research on the potential mechanisms of ARs.
Glycyrrhizin as a potential disease-modifying therapy for epilepsy: insights into targeting pyroptosis to exert neuroprotective and anticonvulsant effects
Authors: Wei Lei , Ou Sijie , Meng Youshi , Sun Lanfeng , Zhang Lin , Lu Yuling , Wu Yuan
Published: January 2025

Background

For patients with epilepsy, antiseizure medication remains the primary treatment; however, it is ineffective in approximately 30% of cases. These patients experience progressive neuronal damage and poor outcomes. Therefore, there is an urgent need for disease-modifying therapy (DMT) that targets the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Glycyrrhizin has shown potential as a DMT in epilepsy due to its multiple targets and diverse mechanisms. Previous studies suggest that glycyrrhizin may regulate key processes involved in epilepsy pathogenesis, such as neuroinflammation and cell death, but its effects on pyroptosis have not been reported.

Methods

This study employed bioinformatics techniques to identify potential molecular targets for glycyrrhizin in epilepsy treatment and then validated using a kainic acid-induced status epilepticus mouse model.

Results

Glycyrrhizin treatment significantly prolonged seizure latency, reduced seizure duration, and alleviated neuronal damage in the status epilepticus mouse model. Molecular experiments indicated that glycyrrhizin may regulate pyroptosis through mediation of the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)/Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Glycyrrhizin exerts neuroprotective and anticonvulsant effects in epilepsy by regulating pyroptosis via the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, offering novel insights into its potential as a DMT for epilepsy.
Polymer-based antimicrobial strategies for periodontitis
Authors: Chen Jiajia , Dong Shujun
Published: January 2025

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition driven by plaque-associated microorganisms, where uncontrolled bacterial invasion and proliferation impair host immune responses, leading to localized periodontal tissue inflammation and bone destruction. Conventional periodontal therapies face challenges, including incomplete microbial clearance and the rise of antibiotic resistance, limiting their precision and effectiveness in managing periodontitis. Recently, nanotherapies based on polymeric materials have introduced advanced approaches to periodontal antimicrobial therapy through diverse antimicrobial mechanisms. This review explored specific mechanisms, emphasizing the design of polymer-based agents that employ individual or synergistic antimicrobial actions, and evaluated the innovations and limitations of current strategies while forecasting future trends in antimicrobial development for periodontitis.
The vibration of micro-circular ring of ceramic with viscothermoelastic properties under the classical Caputo and Caputo-Fabrizio of fractional-order derivative
Authors: Al-Lehaibi Eman A. N.
Published: January 2025

This work introduces a novel mathematical framework for examining the thermal conduction characteristics of a viscothermoelastic, isotropic micro-circular ring. The foundation of the model is Kirchhoff’s theory of love plates. The governing equations have been developed by using Lord and Shulman’s generalized thermoelastic model. For a viscothermoelasticity material, Young’s modulus incorporates an additional fractional derivative consideration such as the classical Caputo and Caputo-Fabrizio types, alongside the normal derivative. The outer bounding plane is thermally loaded by ramp-type heating. Laplace transform has been applied and its inverse has been obtained numerically. Graphical comparisons between the definitions of the ordinary derivative and the fractional derivatives were incorporated into the study. The objective was to study the impacts of the fractional derivative order on the vibration distribution of a ceramic micro-circular ring and obtain novel results. It is ascertained that the fractional derivative order and resonator thickness have no discernible effect on the distribution of thermal waves; nevertheless, the ramp heat parameter is identified as having a significant impact. The order of the fractional derivatives and the resonator’s thickness, have a significant impact on the mechanical wave. It has been demonstrated that the ramp heat parameter effectively regulates the energy damping in ceramic resonators.
The effects of aerobic exercise and heat stress on the unbound fraction of caffeine
Authors: McLaughlin Mackenzie , Dizon Kaye , Jacobs Ira
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The fraction of drug circulating in the blood that is not bound to plasma proteins (fu) is considered pharmacologically active since it readily binds to its receptor. In vitro evidence suggests that changes in temperature and pH affect the affinity of drug binding to plasma proteins, resulting in changes in fu. In light of the well-established effects of exercise on body temperature and blood pH, we investigated whether an increase in blood temperature and decrease in pH facilitated through passive heating and exercise translated to a change in the fu of caffeine.

Methods

Ten healthy participants (4 females and 6 males; age: 21.9 ± 2.7 years [means ± SD]) ingested 3 mg/kg of anhydrous caffeine on two separate occasions comprised of a control trial involving 105 min of rest, and an experimental trial involving 10 min of passive heating, followed by 20 min of cycling at 55% V˙O2peak, and then 10 sprint intervals at 90% V˙O2peak. Venous blood was sampled and the plasma was processed via ultrafiltration to quantify the fu of caffeine and its major metabolite, paraxanthine.

Results

The exercise protocol resulted in maximal increases in core temperature of 1.37°C ± 0.27°C and lactate of 10.34 ± 3.33 mmol/L, and a decrease in blood pH of 0.12 ± 0.051 (all p < 0.05), which did not affect the fu of caffeine (baseline: 0.86 vs post-exercise: 0.75; p = 0.30) or paraxanthine (baseline: 0.59 vs. post-exercise: 0.70; p = 0.11). Furthermore, the rate of metabolism of caffeine assessed through the metabolic ratio ([paraxanthine]/[caffeine]) did not differ between resting and exercise trials.

Discussion

Therefore, the changes in blood temperature and pH in this study did not affect the fu of caffeine or paraxanthine.
Toward a hyperventilation detection system in freediving: a proof of concept using force sensor technology
Authors: Pernett Frank , Mulder Eric , Johansson Filip , Sieber Arne , Bermudez Ricardo , Lossner Marcus , Schagatay Erika
Published: January 2025

Background and aim

Hyperventilation before breath-hold diving (freediving) is widely accepted as a risk factor for hypoxic syncope or blackout (BO), but there is no practical way to address it before dives. This study explores the feasibility of using a force sensor to predict end-tidal carbon dioxide (PETCO2) to assess hyperventilation in freedivers.

Methods and results

Twenty-one freedivers volunteered to participate during two national competitions. The divers were instructed to breathe normally and perform three dry apneas of 1, 2, and 3-min duration at 2-min intervals in a sitting position. Before and after the apneas, PETCO2 was recorded. The signal from the force sensor, attached to a chest belt, was used to record the frequency and amplitude of the chest movements, and the product of these values in the 60 s before the apnea was used to predict PETCO2. The mean PETCO2 was below 35 mmHg before all apneas. The mean amplitude of the signal from the force sensor increased from apnea 1 to apnea 3 (p < 0.001), while the respiratory rate was similar (NS). The product of the respiratory rate and amplitude from the force sensor explained 34% of the variability of the PETCO2 in the third apnea.

Conclusion

This study shows that a force sensor can estimate hyperventilation before static apnea, providing a basis for further research. More studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in preventing issues. Freedivers may hyperventilate without noticing it, and such a system could improve awareness of this condition. Additional underwater tests are essential to determine whether this system can enhance safety in freediving.
Evaluation of yield, yield components and some quality traits of tuber of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under different weed and nutritional management practices
Authors: Amjadi Hooshmand , Heidari Gholamreza , Babaei Sirwan , Sharifi Zahed
Published: January 2025

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production requires effective nutrient and weed management strategies to enhance tuber yield and quality while minimizing the environmental impact of chemical inputs. This study investigated the effects of various weed and nutrient management practices on potato tuber yield, yield components, and quality traits. The experiments were conducted over two years (2019–2020) at the University of Kurdistan’s research farm in the Dehgolan Plain, using a split-plot based on randomized complete block design with four replicates. Main plot treatments included a control (no fertilizer), complete chemical fertilizer (based on soil testing), foliar application of edible mushroom powder, and seaweed extract. Subplot treatments focused on weed control methods, consisting of a control (no weed control), chemical herbicides (metribuzin + paraquat), a biological herbicide, and manual weeding (weed-free). The highest tuber yield was achieved with the combination of metribuzin and paraquat herbicides alongside manual weeding in the complete fertilizer regimen, yielding 25 and 23.2 t ha⁻¹, respectively. Treatments with edible mushroom powder resulted in a 32% increase in tuber counts but a 21% decrease in individual tuber weights compared to the control. Tuber quality was significantly affected, with phosphorus concentration peaking at 0.26% under the complete fertilizer regimen, whether paired with manual weeding or the biological herbicide. Additionally, reducing sugars were highest in the complete fertilizer and chemical weed management treatments, indicating potential implications for tuber processing quality. These findings suggest that an integrated approach combining complete chemical fertilizer application with effective weed control maximizes both total yield and nutrient concentrations in potatoes. The results provide valuable insights for developing sustainable potato production practices that balance yield optimization with environmental stewardship.
Depression in adolescence and young adulthood: the difficulty to integrate motivational/emotional systems
Authors: Giacolini Teodosio , Alcaro Antonio , Conversi David , Tarsitani Lorenzo
Published: January 2025

Depression is presented as a multi-factorial bio-psycho-social expression that has evolved primarily as an effect of stressors related to the motivational/emotional systems that regulate the BrainMind in our relationship with conspecifics. These stressors may be caused by two sources of threat, firstly, the loss of bonding with the caregiver and later with a partner and/or group which relates to the SEPARATION (PANIC/GRIEF) system, secondly, social defeat as an expression of the social competition and social dominance. The sexual maturity drives the individual to social competition and social dominance, even if the latter often occurs before sexual maturity, e.g., chickens, dogs, non-human primates, and humans. Depression is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism in mammals to terminate both separation anxiety, so as to protect the vulnerable social brain from the consequences of prolonged separation anxiety, and the stress of social competition when social defeat is predictable. Adolescence and Young adulthood are particularly susceptible to these two types of threat because of human developmental characteristics that are summarized by the term neoteny. This refers to the slowing down of growth and development, resulting in both a prolonged period of dependence on a caring/protective adult and the persistence of juvenile characteristics throughout life. Therefore, neoteny makes the transition from childhood to sexual maturity more dramatic, making the integration of the SEPARATION (PANIC/GRIEF) system with the dynamics of social competition and dominance more stressful and a source of depression. Stress is an expression of the HPA-Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis that articulates with other systems, mainly the autonomic nervous system and the immune-inflammatory system. The latter is believed to be one of the most significant components in the dynamics of depressive processes, connected to the prodromes of its activation in childhood, under the pressure of environmental and relational stressors which can lead to learned helplessness. The recurrence of stressors makes it easier for the immune-inflammatory system to be activated in later life, which could make a significant contribution to the establishment of a depressive disease. The possible contribution of children's identification processes with their parents' depressive personalities through observational learning is considered.
Lesion classification and diabetic retinopathy grading by integrating softmax and pooling operators into vision transformer
Authors: Liu Chong , Wang Weiguang , Lian Jian , Jiao Wanzhen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Diabetic retinopathy grading plays a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. In practice, this task mainly relies on manual inspection using human visual system. However, the human visual system-based screening process is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and error-prone. Therefore, plenty of automated screening technique have been developed to address this task.

Methods

Among these techniques, the deep learning models have demonstrated promising outcomes in various types of machine vision tasks. However, most of the medical image analysis-oriented deep learning approaches are built upon the convolutional operations, which might neglect the global dependencies between long-range pixels in the medical images. Therefore, the vision transformer models, which can unveil the associations between global pixels, have been gradually employed in medical image analysis. However, the quadratic computation complexity of attention mechanism has hindered the deployment of vision transformer in clinical practices. Bearing the analysis above in mind, this study introduces an integrated self-attention mechanism with both softmax and linear modules to guarantee efficiency and expressiveness, simultaneously. To be specific, a portion of query and key tokens, which are much less than the original query and key tokens, are adopted in the attention module by adding a set of proxy tokens. Note that the proxy tokens can fully utilize both the advantages of softmax and linear attention.

Results

To evaluate the performance of the presented approach, the comparison experiments between state-of-the-art algorithms and the proposed approach are conducted. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach achieves superior outcome over the state-of-the-art algorithms on the publicly available datasets.

Discussion

Accordingly, the proposed approach can be taken as a potentially valuable instrument in clinical practices.
Psychological well-being and academic performance of Ukrainian medical students under the burden of war: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Korda Mykhaylo , Shulhai Arkadii , Shevchuk Oksana , Shulhai Oleksandra , Shulhai Anna-Mariia
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The mental health of medical students is a key factor for academic performance and the delivery of high-quality medical care in the future. Globally, medical students face numerous challenges that can affect their education. Living and studying facing the war has a crucial influence on medical students’ education and daily life. The study aimed to determine the psychological well-being and academic achievements of Ukrainian medical students who lived in the rear areas after the 18 months of the Russian–Ukrainian war.

Methods

The cross-sectional study was conducted at I.Ya. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University. We analyzed the psychological well-being and educational achievements of medical students from the second to fifth year of Medical Faculty using the self-report scales DASS-21 and IES-R. A total of 776 students filled out the DASS-21 scale and 491 IES-R scale, respectively.

Results

Following the first 18 months of the war, 62.5, 59.6, and 58.8% of Ukrainian medical students self-reported signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, respectively. Severe and extremely severe depressive symptoms were observed in 25.6% of students, anxiety in 31.9%, and stress in 29.7%, with a higher prevalence among female students. Additionally, 44.2% of responders had significant symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, with the highest scores on the hyperarousal subscale (>37). Academic performance in 2023 was significantly lower compared to the pre-war period in 2019 (p < 0.001) (p = 0.000). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that academic performance was positively associated with depression (p = 0.003), hyperarousal (p < 0.001), anxiety (p = 0.03), and negatively associated with stress (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Ukrainian medical students in rear areas are facing various challenges, with war-related stressors having a profound impact on their mental health. Our findings have shown an increasing prevalence of anxiety, stress, depression, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, all of which may negatively affect academic performance. The educational process during wartime is important for facilitating qualified medical personnel and quality healthcare. Understanding the burden of war allows for the development of wellness programs that support student mental health in conflict zones.
Determining the risk factors of malaria and anemia in children between 6 and 59 months using the joint generalized linear mixed model on the 2021 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey dataset
Authors: Mhelembe Talani , Ramroop Shaun , Habyarimana Faustin
Published: January 2025

Background

Malaria and anemia are significant public health concerns that contribute to child mortality in African. Despite global efforts to control the two diseases, their prevalence in high-risk regions like Nigeria remains high. Understanding socioeconomic, demographic, and geographical factors associated with malaria and anemia, is critical for effective intervention strategies.

Objective

The study aims to assess the risk factors for malaria and anemia in children under 5 years using the joint generalized linear mixed model (JGLMM).

Methods

The Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) 2021 dataset was used, with a sample of 10,120 children aged 6–59 months. A two-stage sampling method was applied. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests examined factors associated with malaria and anemia prevalence. Missing data were handled using multiple imputations with chained equations (MICE). Lastly, the adjusted odds ratio was interpreted for the current study. SAS was used in analyzing the data and statistical significance was set at 5% significance level.

Results

The prevalence of malaria and anemia was 36.81 and 67.66%, respectively, in children between 6 and 59 months old in Nigeria. The JGLMM was used to examine malaria RDT and anemia findings in conjunction with demographic, geographic, and socioeconomic covariates. The following underlying risk factors for malaria and anemia in children were discovered in the study: region, altitude, age of child in months, toilet facility of the household, main wall material used for the house, main roof material used for the house, children under five who slept under a mosquito net, whether the child had fever in last 2 weeks before the survey took place, place of residence where the child resides, household wealth index, sex of child, and mother’s education level. However, whether the mother knew of ways to prevent malaria was not statistically significant regarding anemia.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of addressing fever as a key factor for anemia and improving housing conditions to reduce malaria and anemia prevalence. Policymakers should prioritize mosquito net distribution and healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The study’s novelty lies in its handling of missing data through imputation techniques, enhancing the reliability of findings.
Research on the impact of urban innovation on public health
Authors: Zhao Liang , Li Chen , Qian Yaosen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This article explores the impact of innovation on urban public health, with a particular focus on panel data from 15 sub-provincial cities in China. The study aims to provide scientific evidence for policymakers by analyzing how technological innovation affects urban public health levels.

Methods

The study used a panel model for empirical analysis which based on panel data from 15 sub provincial cities across the country, using the number of doctors per 10,000 people and per capita financial medical and health expenditure as proxy variables for urban public health, and using the level of technological development as the core explanatory variable for regression analysis.

Results

The research results show that: (1) for public health quantified by the number of doctors per 10,000 people in cities, innovation does not have a significant promoting effect on urban public health; (2) Compared to the number of doctors per 10,000 people in a region, the per capita financial expenditure on healthcare can better measure the level of urban public health; (3) Innovation has a significant impact on urban public health, measured by per capita fiscal expenditure on healthcare.

Discussion

In order to transform technological innovation into a driving force for the development of urban public health, efforts must be made from multiple aspects. Currently, building a strong foundation for people’s health relies on the support of science and technology, and enhancing innovation as a primary driving force is crucial. China urgently needs to improve the stability and competitiveness of its pharmaceutical industry and supply chain, break through key core technologies, and take the initiative in the future development of the pharmaceutical industry.
Versatile graceful degradation framework for bio-inspired proprioception with redundant soft sensors
Authors: Sugiyama Taku , Kutsuzawa Kyo , Owaki Dai , Almanzor Elijah , Iida Fumiya , Hayashibe Mitsuhiro
Published: January 2025

Reliable proprioception and feedback from soft sensors are crucial for enabling soft robots to function intelligently in real-world environments. Nevertheless, soft sensors are fragile and are susceptible to various damage sources in such environments. Some researchers have utilized redundant configuration, where healthy sensors compensate instantaneously for lost ones to maintain proprioception accuracy. However, achieving consistently reliable proprioception under diverse sensor degradation remains a challenge. This paper proposes a novel framework for graceful degradation in redundant soft sensor systems, incorporating a stochastic Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and a Time-Delay Feedforward Neural Network (TDFNN). The LSTM estimates readings from healthy sensors to compare them with actual data. Then, statistically abnormal readings are zeroed out. The TDFNN receives the processed sensor readings to perform proprioception. Simulation experiments with a musculoskeletal leg that contains 40 nonlinear soft sensors demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework. Results show that the knee angle proprioception accuracy is retained across four distinct degradation scenarios. Notably, the mean proprioception error increases by less than 1.91°(1.36%) when 30% of the sensors are degraded. These results suggest that the proposed framework enhances the reliability of soft sensor proprioception, thereby improving the robustness of soft robots in real-world applications.
From personal benefits to green motives: consumer segments for targeted sustainability transitions in workplace canteens
Authors: Eg Ragnhild , Gonera Antje , Grini Ida Synnøve , Pedersen Mads Erling , Varela Paula
Published: January 2025

This study came to life through a collaboration between researchers and the service and food industries, aiming for nuanced consumer insights that may inform future sustainability interventions in workplace canteens. The study applied a mixed-methods approach to evaluate consumers’ attitudes, motives, and preferences within the canteen setting and with respect to the sustainability of food choices. Analyses of the quantitative data identified three distinct consumer segments that demonstrate the variability of consumers in food preferences and sustainability orientations. One segment was motivated by personal benefits, a second by both benefits and consideration for animal welfare, and a third was more markedly oriented toward sustainability. The qualitative analyses contributed additional viewpoints on feasible and desirable changes to canteen menus and operations. Combined, the findings highlight the necessity for canteens to consider the diversity of their clients and adopt versatile strategies tailored to distinct motives and preferences. This can in turn transform the canteen into an arena for testing sustainability interventions, yielding further insight into the efficacy of a range of means. The ambition is to extend outcomes of canteen interventions to other arenas, commencing with the household and culminating with society at large.