bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How life events may confer vulnerability to addiction: the role of epigenetics
Authors: Liu Shirelle X. , Harris Andrew C. , Gewirtz Jonathan C.
Published: September 2024

Substance use disorder (SUD) represents a large and growing global health problem. Despite the strong addictive potency of drugs of abuse, only a minority of those exposed develop SUDs. While certain life experiences (e.g., childhood trauma) may increase subsequent vulnerability to SUDs, mechanisms underlying these effects are not yet well understood. Given the chronic and relapsing nature of SUDs, and the length of time that can elapse between prior life events and subsequent drug exposure, changes in SUD vulnerability almost certainly involve long-term epigenetic dysregulation. To validate this idea, functional effects of specific epigenetic modifications in brain regions mediating reinforcement learning (e.g., nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex) have been investigated in a variety of animal models of SUDs. In addition, the effects of epigenetic modifications produced by prior life experiences on subsequent SUD vulnerability have been studied, but mostly in a correlational manner. Here, we review how epigenetic mechanisms impact SUD-related behavior in animal models and summarize our understanding of the relationships among life experiences, epigenetic regulation, and future vulnerability to SUDs. Despite variations in study design, epigenetic modifications that most consistently affect SUD-related behavior are those that produce predominantly unidirectional effects on gene regulation, such as DNA methylation and histone phosphorylation. Evidence explicitly linking environmentally induced epigenetic modifications to subsequent SUD-related behavior is surprisingly sparse. We conclude by offering several directions for future research to begin to address this critical research gap.
The increased tendency for anemia in traditional Chinese medicine deficient body constitution is associated with the gut microbiome
Authors: Liang Yuanjun , Chen Yang , Lin Yanzhao , Huang Wei , Qiu Qinwei , Sun Chen , Yuan Jiamin , Xu Ning , Chen Xinyan , Xu Fuping , Shang Xiaoxiao , Deng Yusheng , Liu Yanmin , Tan Fei , He Chunxiang , Li Jiasheng , Deng Qinqin , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Guan Huahua , Liang Yongzhu , Fang Xiaodong , Jiang Xuanting , Han Lijuan , Huang Li , Yang Zhimin
Published: September 2024

Background

Constitution is a valuable part of traditional Chinese medicine theory; it is defined as the internal foundation for the occurrence, development, transformation and outcome of diseases, and has its characteristic gut microbiota. Previous study showed that deficiency constitution was related to lower Hb counts. However, no research has examined how alterations in the gut microbiome induced by deficiency constitution may increase the tendency for anemia.

Methods

We used a multiomics strategy to identify and quantify taxonomies and compounds found under deficient constitution individuals and further explore the possible pathological factors that affect red blood cell indices.

Results

① People with deficient constitution showed lower hemoglobin (Hb), more Firmicutes, less Bacteroidetes, and higher α diversity. ② We identified Escherichia coli, Clostridium bolteae, Ruminococcus gnavus, Streptococcus parasanguinis and Flavonifractor plautii as potential biomarkers of deficient constitution. ③ Slackia piriformis, Clostridium_sp_L2_50 and Bacteroides plebeius were enriched in balanced-constitution individuals, and Parabacteroides goldsteinii was the key bacterial marker of balanced constitution. ④ Flavonifractor plautii may be a protective factor against the tendency for anemia among deficient individuals. ⑤ Ruminococcus gnavus may be the shared microbe base of deficiency constitution-related the tendency for anemia. ⑥ The microorganism abundance of the anaerobic phenotype was lower in deficient constitution group. ⑦ Alterations in the microbiome of deficient-constitution individuals were associated with worse health status and a greater risk of anemia, involving intestinal barrier function, metabolism and immune responses, regulated by short-chain fatty acids and bile acid production.

Conclusion

The composition of the gut microbiome was altered in people with deficient constitution, which may explain their poor health status and tendency toward anemia.
Vitamin D concentration in the blood of women with twin pregnancies and in the umbilical cord blood of newborns in relation to environmental factors
Authors: Wierzejska Regina Ewa , Szymusik Iwona , Bomba-Opoń Dorota , Rzucidło-Szymańska Iga , Wojda Barbara , Biskupski-Brawura-Samaha Robert
Published: September 2024

Background

There is a huge gap in the knowledge of the body’s nutrient resources in women with multiple gestations. Due to the increased demand hypothesis and taking into account common vitamin D deficits in women with singleton pregnancies, this issue should also be investigated in twin pregnancies. This study evaluated blood vitamin D concentration in women with twin pregnancies and in the umbilical cord blood of their newborns as well as analyzed environmental factors that may affect the level of this nutrient.

Methods

The study included 56 women with twin pregnancies. Venous blood samples were collected from the women before delivery and umbilical cord blood at delivery to determine the total 25(OH)D concentration. The women were interviewed by a dietitian to collect data on their diet and lifestyle.

Results

The average maternal 25(OH)D concentrations were 38.4 ± 11.0 ng/mL vs. 23.7 ± 6.1 ng/mL determined in the umbilical cord blood of the newborns. The concentration of 25(OH)D in the umbilical cord blood was strongly correlated with the concentration in the mother (p < 0.001). Vitamin D deficiency was found in 7% of women and 21% of newborns. Factors increasing the risk of too low 25(OH)D concentration in the mothers were age below 27 years (p = 0.002) and short duration of pregnancy (p = 0.011). In newborns, the risk factors included low maternal concentrations (p < 0.001) and delivery before 36 weeks of gestation (p = 0.008). The mean cord blood 25(OH)D levels were almost identical in both twins and amounted to 24.0 ± 6.1 ng/mL in the first-born and 23.4 ± 6.1 ng/mL in the second-born infant. Vitamin D supplementation was declared by 98% of the women, with 85% taking ≤2,000 IU vitamin D daily.

Conclusion

Only a small percentage of women with twin pregnancies presented with vitamin D deficiency, which was probably related to the widespread supplementation of this nutrient. It can therefore be assumed that a dose of 2,000 IU vitamin D currently recommended for pregnant women may also be appropriate for twin gestations, although further research is required to validate this finding.
Beyond genetics: integrative oncology and the metabolic perspective on cancer treatment
Authors: MK Nair Pradeep , Silwal Karishma , Ramalakshmi Renganathan , Devibala Muniappan , Saranya Maruthanayagam , Sivaranjani Sekar , Ramasamy Thangavelu , Palanisamy Ayyappan , Mahalingam Manickam
Published: September 2024

Cancer is traditionally approached as a genetic disease, with standard treatments including chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery significantly improving survival rates and patient outcomes. However, there is a growing recognition of the need for integrative oncology, which expands cancer management by considering cancer as a metabolic disease. Integrative medicine physicians employ holistic therapies focused on patients’ needs, aiming to correct the metabolic imbalances associated with cancer and alleviate cancer-related symptoms. Viewing cancer as a metabolic disease involves addressing factors such as an acidic microenvironment, vitamin C deficiency, mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced intracellular oxygen levels, elevated oxidative stress, dysfunctional autophagy, and psychological stress. This paper presents an overview of the evidence and comprehensive strategies supporting integrative medicine approaches in addressing cancer metabolism in integrative oncology settings. Furthermore, the paper underscores the necessity of integrating different cancer theories—genetic and metabolic—for improved patient outcomes and experiences. By combining these perspectives, integrative oncology offers a more holistic, patient-centered approach to cancer treatment.
Effects of prophylactic nalbuphine on emergence agitation and postoperative pain in pediatric patients undergoing ENT surgery with sevoflurane anesthesia
Authors: Han Wendong , Cai Jingjie , Zhang Wangping , Wei Rong , Jiang Yan
Published: September 2024

Background

Emergence agitation (EA) is a common complication in the pediatric population. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the prophylactic nalbuphine on EA in pediatric patients receiving sevoflurane anesthesia.

Methods

The children undergoing ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgery were administered 0.2 mg/kg nalbuphine (the nalbuphine group) or the same volume of normal saline (the control group) 5 min before the end of the surgery. The extubating time, time to eye-opening and duration of the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) were recorded. Heart rate and blood pressure were monitored before and 5 min after nalbuphine administration. Pain was assessed using Face Legs Activity Cry and Consolability (FLACC) scales, and the drug-related postoperative complications (e.g., EA, delayed awakening, nausea and vomiting, and respiratory depression) were recorded.

Results

One-hundred and thirty pediatric patients were randomly divided into nalbuphine and control groups (n = 65). The nalbuphine group showed a significantly lower incidence of EA than the control group (20% vs. 46.2%, P = 0.002). No significant differences between the two groups were observed in heart rate and blood pressure 5 min after nalbuphine administration (P > 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding extubating time, time to eye-opening, and duration of PACU. The FLACC scales demonstrated lower values in the nalbuphine group than in the control group during the initial 4 h after the surgery. However, the FLACC scales showed similar values between 5 and 12 h after the surgery.

Conclusions

In summary, the results of this study demonstrated that prophylactic natbuphine could minimize the incidence of EA in pediatric patients following ENT surgery without increasing the extubating time and PACU duration.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier [ChiCTR2300070046].
A review of the botany, metabolites, pharmacology, toxicity, industrial applications, and processing of Polygalae Radix: the “key medicine for nourishing life”
Authors: Kuang Hongtuo , Kong Lingping , Hou Ajiao , Yang Anni , Jiang Hai
Published: September 2024

Polygalae radix (PR) is the dried root of Polygala tenuifolia Willd. and Polygala sibirica L. and enjoys the reputation as the “key medicine for nourishing life.” In this study, information about “Polygala tenuifolia Willd.,” “Polygala sibirica L.,” and “Yuanzhi” was retrieved from scientific databases, including Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI, and Wan Fang Data. Information from Chinese herbal medicine classics, Yaozhi Data, and the Gaide Chemical Network was also collected. Information related to botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, industrial applications, and processing is summarized in this paper to tap its potentialities and promote its further development and clinical application. More than 320 metabolites have been isolated from PR; saponins, xanthones, and oligosaccharide esters are the main functional metabolites. Pharmacological research shows that its pharmacological action mainly focuses on resisting nervous system diseases, and it also has the functions of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-tumor, anti-pathogenic microorganisms and others. The gastrointestinal irritation of its saponins impeded its application, but this irritation can be reduced by controlling the dosage, compatibility with other herbs, or processing. The future progress of PR faces opportunities and challenges. More attention should be paid to the traditional application and processing methods of PR recorded in ancient books. The lack of safety and clinical studies has limited its application and transformation of achievements. Moreover, it is one-sided to take the content of only a few metabolites as the index of processing optimization and quality control, which cannot reflect the full pharmacological and toxicological activities of PR.
Gut microbiota metabolites: potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer’s disease?
Authors: Zhang Shanshan , Lu Jing , Jin Ziqi , Xu Hanying , Zhang Dongmei , Chen Jianan , Wang Jian
Published: September 2024

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive decline in cognitive function, which significantly increases pain and social burden. However, few therapeutic interventions are effective in preventing or mitigating the progression of AD. An increasing number of recent studies support the hypothesis that the gut microbiome and its metabolites may be associated with upstream regulators of AD pathology.

Methods

In this review, we comprehensively explore the potential mechanisms and currently available interventions targeting the microbiome for the improvement of AD. Our discussion is structured around modern research advancements in AD, the bidirectional communication between the gut and brain, the multi-target regulatory effects of microbial metabolites on AD, and therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating gut microbiota to manage AD.

Results

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AD through continuous bidirectional communication via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Among these, microbial metabolites such as lipids, amino acids, bile acids and neurotransmitters, especially sphingolipids and phospholipids, may serve as central components of the gut-brain axis, regulating AD-related pathogenic mechanisms including β-amyloid metabolism, Tau protein phosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Additionally, interventions such as probiotic administration, fecal microbiota transplantation, and antibiotic use have also provided evidence supporting the association between gut microbiota and AD. At the same time, we propose an innovative strategy for treating AD: a healthy lifestyle combined with targeted probiotics and other potential therapeutic interventions, aiming to restore intestinal ecology and microbiota balance.

Conclusion

Despite previous efforts, the molecular mechanisms by which gut microbes act on AD have yet to be fully described. However, intestinal microorganisms may become an essential target for connecting the gut-brain axis and improving the symptoms of AD. At the same time, it requires joint exploration by multiple centers and multiple disciplines.
A qualitative analysis of the artificial neural network model and numerical solution for the nanofluid flow through an exponentially stretched surface
Authors: Ullah Asad , Yao Hongxing , Waseem  , Saboor Abdus , Awwad Fuad A. , Ismail Emad A. A.
Published: September 2024

This article aims to analyze the two-dimensional (2D) nanofluid (Ag/C2H6O2) flow past an exponentially stretched sheet. The magnetic field impact, heat source/sink, and convection in the thermal profile are taken into account. The complexity of the problem is reduced by introducing a dimensionless group of functions. The reduced model is transformed into a system of first-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs). This system is further analyzed with the artificial neural network (ANN), which is trained using the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm. The whole dataset is sub divided into three parts: training (70%), validation (15%), and testing (15%). The impact of nonlinear heat source/sink parameter, magnetic parameter, volume fraction of nanoparticles, and Prandtl number is displayed through graphs. The heat source, volume fraction, and the Prandtl number cause an increase in the thermal profile with its larger values. The magnetic parameter causes a decline in both the thermal and momentum boundary layers with its higher values. The analysis shows that the thermal energy profile is enhanced with the larger values of the volume fraction of silver nanoparticles and heat source. For each case study, the residual error (RE), regression line, and validation of the results are presented. The performance of the proposed methodology is numerically tabulated for the nanoparticle volume fraction shown in Table 3, where the minimum absolute error (AE) is 5.3373e−11 at ϕ=0.05. Based on this, we recommend ϕ=0.05 for better performance. The AEs for the ANN and bvp4c are computed for the state variables in Tables for the magnetic parameter M=5,10, and 15. These tables show the overall performance of the ANN and further validate the present study. We have also validated the results of the ANN through the mean squared error graphically, where the accuracy of the proposed methodology is proven.
Detection of natural pulse waves (PWs) in 3D using high frame rate imaging for anisotropy characterization
Authors: Sauvage Jack , Moustefaoui Safa , Fiorentini Stefano , Venet Maelys , Fadnes Solveig , Lovastakken Lasse , Villemain Olivier , Salles Sébastien
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Numerous studies have shown that natural mechanical waves have the potential to assess the elastic properties of the myocardium. When the Aortic and Mitral valves close, a shear wave is produced, which provides insights into tissue stiffness. In addition, the Atrial Kick (AK) generates a wave similar to Pulse Waves (PWs) in arteries, providing another way to assess tissue stiffness. However, tissue anisotropy can also impact PW propagation, which is currently underexplored. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the impact of anisotropy on PW propagation in a phantom.

Methods

Tube phantoms were created using Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA). Anisotropy was induced between two sets of two freeze-thaw cycles by stretching and twisting the material. The study first tests and validates the procedure of making helical anisotropic vessel phantoms using the shear wave imaging technique (by estimating the shear wave speed at different probe angles). Using plane wave ultrasound tomography synchronized with a peristaltic pump, 3D high frame rate imaging is performed and used to detect the 3D propagation pattern of PW for each manufactured vessel phantom. Finally, the study attempts to extract the anisotropic coefficient of the vessel using pulse wave propagation angle.

Results

The Shear wave imaging results obtained for the isotropic vessel show very similar values for each probe angle. On the contrary, the results obtained for the axial anisotropy vessel show a region with a higher shear wave speed at about 0°, corresponding to the long axis of the vessel. Finally, the results obtained for the helical anisotropy depicted increasing shear wave velocity value from −20° to 20°. For the axial phantom, the wavefront of the pulse wave is perpendicular to the long axis of the vessel, while oriented for the helical anisotropic vessels phantom. The pulse wave propagation angle increased with the number of twists made during the vessel manufacturing.

Discussion

The results show that anisotropy can be induced in PVA vessel phantoms by stretching and twisting the material in freeze-thaw cycles. The findings also suggest that vessel anisotropy affects pulse wave propagation angles. Estimating the pulse wave propagation angle may be interesting in characterizing tissue anisotropy in organs where such waves are naturally present.
Effect of a honey-sweetened beverage on muscle soreness and recovery of performance after exercise-induced muscle damage in strength-trained females
Authors: Hemmati Hadis , Alkasasbeh Walaa Jumah , Hemmatinafar Mohammad , Salesi Mohsen , Pirmohammadi Sepideh , Imanian Babak , Rezaei Rasoul
Published: September 2024

Background

This study explores a novel approach to mitigating delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), a common issue among strength-trained females. By investigating the potential of a honey-sweetened beverage, which contains anti-inflammatory properties, we aim to enhance muscle recovery after exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD).

Method

A randomized, cross-over, placebo-controlled, and double-blinded study was conducted with sixteen female strength athletes. Firstly, the baseline measurements were recorded, and participants were randomly divided into two conditions: honey-sweetened beverage (HSB; 70 g of honey in 250 mL water with a concentration of 28%) and placebo (PLA; 250 mL of water with 70 g of artificial sweetener). The HSB and PLA were consumed 90 min before the EIMD started (200 vertical jumps with 10% body-weighted vests). Recovery monitoring of performance indicators and DOMS was performed after EIMD. The results of wall-sit, V-Sit and reach flexibility test (VSFT), vertical jump height (VJH), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and one repetition maximum (IRM) tests were recorded 48 h after EIMD. Also, DOMS was recorded using the visual analog scale (VAS) before the start of the test and immediately, 12, 24, and 48 h after EIMD. A one-week interval was considered a washout period for each condition. The collected data were analyzed by repeated measures of ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test and dependent t-test at P ≤ 0.05 level.

Results

Compared to PLA, HSB ingestion improves wall-sit performance (p = 0.003), 1RM (p = 0.019), and RPE (p = 0.003) after EIMD. However, no significant differences were observed between BL, PLA, and HSB in VJH (p = 0.384), VSFT (p = 0.840), and PPT (p = 0.151) after EIMD. Furthermore, HSB, compared to PLA, considerably decreased the values of DOMS immediately, 12, 24, and 48 h after EIMD (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings illustrated that ingesting HSB in strength-trained females can be a helpful strategy for improving recovery indicators such as muscle strength, endurance, and muscle soreness after EIMD.
The effect of supplemental arginine on the gut microbial homeostasis of broilers during sub-clinical necrotic enteritis challenge
Authors: Fathima Shahna , Al Hakeem Walid G. , Shanmugasundaram Revathi , Lourenco Jeferson , Selvaraj Ramesh K.
Published: September 2024

Necrotic enteritis (NE) is an enteric disease of poultry that alters the structure of the gut microbial community causing dysbiosis. This 28 day experiment investigated the effects of 125% and 135% arginine diets on the gut microbial diversity and composition of broilers during a subclinical NE challenge. One hundred and twenty one-day-old chicks were randomly allocated to 4 treatments with six replicates each- Uninfected + Basal, NE + Basal, NE + Arg 125%, and NE + Arg 135% diet groups. NE was induced by inoculating 1 × 104 E. maxima sporulated oocysts on day 14 and 1 × 108 CFU C. perfringens on days 19, 20, and 21 of age. The NE challenge significantly decreased the number of observed amplicon sequence variants (p = 0.03), the abundance of the phylum Firmicutes (p < 0.01), and the species Mediterraneibacter cottocaccae (p = 0.01) in the ceca of birds on day 21. The NE challenge significantly increased the Bray-Curtis index (p < 0.01), and the abundance of the phylum Bacteroidota (p < 0.01), family Odoribacteraceae (p < 0.01), genus Odoribacter (p < 0.01), and species O. splanchnicus (p = 0.01) on day 21. During NE, the 125% arginine diet restored the abundance of the phylum Bacteroidota (p = 0.03), family Odoribacteraceae (p = 0.03) and Oscillospiraceae (p = 0.03), genus Odoribacter (p = 0.03), and species O. splanchnicus (p = 0.03) and M. cottocaccae (p < 0.01) on day 21. The 135% arginine diet effectively restored the loss in alpha diversity (p = 0.01) caused by NE, the abundance of the phylum Firmicutes (p = 0.01) and Bacteroidota (p < 0.01), family Oscillospiraceae (p = 0.03) and Odoribacteraceae (p < 0.01), genus Odoribacter (p < 0.01), and species O. splanchnicus (p < 0.01) and M. cottocaccae (p < 0.01) on day 21. On day 28, the treatments had a significant effect on the cecal propionate (p = 0.01), butyrate (p = 0.04), and total SCFA (p = 0.04) concentrations. In conclusion, the 125% and 135% arginine diets restored gut microbial composition during a subclinical NE challenge, but not the cecal SCFA profile. Hence, arginine in combination with other feed additives could be used in restoring gut microbial homeostasis during NE in poultry.
Biological responses of an elite centipedegrass [Eremochloa ophiuroides (Munro) Hack.] cultivar (Ganbei) to carbon ion beam irradiation
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wang Haoran , Du Yan , Zhang Ling , Li Xiaohui , Guo Hailin , Liu Jianxiu , Zhou Libin , Xu Xin , Li Jianjian
Published: September 2024

Carbon ion beam irradiation (CIBI) is a highly efficient mutagenesis for generating mutations that can be used to expand germplasm resources and create superior new germplasm. The study investigated the effects of different doses of CIBI (50 Gy, 100 Gy, 150 Gy, 200 Gy and 300 Gy) on seed germination and seedling survival, seedling morphological and physiological traits of an elite centipedegrass cultivar Ganbei. The results showed that irradiation greater than 50 Gy cause inhibition of seed germination, and the semi-lethal dose (LD50) is around 90 Gy for CIBI treated seeds of Ganbei. A carbon ion beam-mutagenized centipedegrass population was generated from Ganbei, with irradiation dosages from 50 Gy to 200 Gy. More than ten types of phenotypic variations and novel mutants with heritable tendencies mainly including putative mutants of stolon number, length and diameter, of internode length, of leaf length and width, of leaf chlorophyll content, of stolon growth rate, of aboveground tissue dry weight, of sward height were identified. While the total sugar content of the plants from irradiated seeds showed no obvious change in all treatments as compared to the control, the crude protein content displayed significant reduction at a high-dose treatment of 200 Gy. Genetic polymorphism was detected in mutagenized centipedegrass population using SSR-PCR analysis, suggesting that CIBI caused alteration of larger fragments of the DNA sequence. As a result, a preliminary batch of mutants was screened in this study. In summary, carbon ion beam mutagenesis is an effective way for developing centipedegrass germplasm with wider variation, and treating seeds with CIBI at a dosage of ~100 Gy could be effective in centipedegrass mutation breeding.
A fungal endophyte induces local cell wall–mediated resistance in wheat roots against take-all disease
Authors: Chancellor Tania , Smith Daniel P. , Chen Wanxin , Clark Suzanne J. , Venter Eudri , Halsey Kirstie , Carrera Esther , McMillan Vanessa , Canning Gail , Armer Victoria J. , Hammond-Kosack Kim E. , Palma-Guerrero Javier
Published: September 2024

Take-all disease, caused by the Ascomycete fungus Gaeumannomyces tritici, is one of the most important root diseases of wheat worldwide. The fungus invades the roots and destroys the vascular tissue, hindering the uptake of water and nutrients. Closely related non-pathogenic species in the Magnaporthaceae family, such as Gaeumannomyces hyphopodioides, occur naturally in arable and grassland soils and have previously been reported to reduce take-all disease in field studies. However, the mechanism of take-all protection has remained unknown. Here, we demonstrate that take-all control is achieved via local but not systemic host changes in response to prior G. hyphopodioides root colonisation. A time-course wheat RNA sequencing analysis revealed extensive transcriptional reprogramming in G. hyphopodioides–colonised tissues, characterised by a striking downregulation of key cell wall–related genes, including genes encoding cellulose synthases (CESA), and xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolases (XTH). In addition, we characterise the root infection biologies of G. tritici and G. hyphopodioides in wheat. We investigate the ultrastructure of previously described “subepidermal vesicles” (SEVs), dark swollen fungal cells produced in wheat roots by non-pathogenic G. hyphopodioides, but not by pathogenic G. tritici. We show that G. hyphopodioides SEVs share key characteristics of fungal resting structures, containing a greater number of putative lipid bodies and a significantly thickened cell wall compared to infection hyphae. We hypothesise that SEVs are fungal resting structures formed due to halted hyphal growth in the root cortex, perhaps as a stress response to locally induced wheat defence responses. In the absence of take-all resistant wheat cultivars or non-virulent G. tritici strains, studying closely related non-pathogenic G. hyphopodioides provides a much needed avenue to elucidate take-all resistance mechanisms in wheat.
A simple and efficient method for betalain quantification in RUBY-expressing plant samples
Authors: Pramanik Dibyajyoti , Lee Keunsub , Wang Kan
Published: September 2024

The RUBY reporter system has demonstrated great potential as a visible marker to monitor gene expression in both transiently and stably transformed plant tissues. Ectopic expression of the RUBY reporter leads to bright red pigmentation in plant tissues that do not naturally accumulate betalain. Unlike traditional visual markers such as β-glucuronidase (GUS), luciferase (LUC), and various fluorescent proteins, the RUBY reporter system does not require sample sacrifice or special equipment for visualizing the gene expression. However, a robust quantitative analysis method for betalain content has been lacking, limiting accurate comparative analyses. In this work, we present a simple and rapid protocol for quantitative evaluation of RUBY expression in transgenic plant tissues. Using this method, we demonstrate that differential RUBY expression can be quantified in transiently transformed leaf tissues, such as agroinfiltrated Nicotiana benthamiana leaves, and in stable transgenic maize tissues, including seeds, leaves, and roots. We found that grinding fresh tissues with a hand grinder and plastic pestle, without the use of liquid nitrogen, is an effective method for rapid betalain extraction. Betalain contents estimated by spectrophotometric and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analyses were highly consistent, validating that our rapid betalain extraction and quantification method is suitable for comparative analysis. In addition, betalain content was strongly correlated with RUBY expression level in agroinfiltrated N. benthamiana leaves, suggesting that our method can be useful for monitoring transient transformation efficiency in plants. Using our rapid protocol, we quantified varying levels of betalain pigment in N. benthamiana leaves, ranging from 110 to 1066 mg/kg of tissue, and in maize samples, ranging from 15.3 to 1028.7 mg/kg of tissue. This method is expected to streamline comparative studies in plants, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of various promoters, enhancers, or other regulatory elements used in transgenic constructs.
Establishing a critical phosphorus dilution curve for potato in semi-arid regions based on a Bayesian analysis
Authors: Kong Shuo , Qin Yonglin , Shi Xiaohua , Yu Jing , Jia Liguo , Chen Yang , Fan Mingshou
Published: September 2024

Phosphorus (P) fertilizer use efficiency in potato production is relatively low in semi-arid regions, wasting P resources and increasing environmental risks. Therefore, improving P use efficiency (PUE) is critical for sustainable potato production. The critical P dilution curve (CPDC) and P nutrition index (PNI) have proven to be robust diagnostic tools for assessing crop P status and aiding in improving P fertilizer management. Several potato CPDCs have been established, however, few studies have been conducted to establish a CPDC for potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under ridge planting with drip irrigation, a planting pattern that has been increasingly adopted in semi-arid regions. In addition, the different CPDCs established using the conventional Jestus statistical model cannot discriminate the true variability across scenarios or have become linked to estimation errors. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to (1) establish a potato CPDC based on a Bayesian statistical method and (2) evaluate the relationship between potato yield and PNI. Three years of field experiments with five levels of P2O5 application (0, 80, 160, 240, 320 kg ha−1) were conducted in Inner Mongolia, China. No significant differences were found between CPDCs across the year × site for the assessed scenarios, and thus, a generic CPDC for potatoes in the region was derived as Pc = 0.616 DM−0.296, and it can be used to calculate the PNI. Further analysis showed that at each growth stage, the PNI exhibits a significant plateauing linear relationship with relative potato tuber yield. Thus, it provides a standard for diagnosing the P nutritional status in potatoes and lays a robust foundation for precise P recommendations in the region.
Effects of a reminiscence therapy-involved program on anxiety, depression, and the quality of life in cancer patients: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Sun Xingliang , Su Wenlian , Yin Mengyue , Xia Ling
Published: September 2024

Objective

Reminiscence therapy is increasingly being utilized for cancer patients to address psychological pressure and enhance their quality of life. This meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate the effect of a reminiscence therapy-involved program (RTIP) on anxiety, depression, and quality of life in cancer patients.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in the Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases until December 2023 to screen randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of RTIP and control care.

Results

A total of 16 RCTs published from 2013 to 2023 were included, with 1,963 cancer patients undergoing RTIP with or without control care (RTIP group, N = 984) or control care (control group, N = 979). The results showed the the anxiety score [standardized mean differences (SMD) = −0.539; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.700, −0.378; P < 0.001], anxiety rate [relative risk (RR) = 0.736; 95% CI: 0.627, 0.865; P < 0.001], depression score (SMD = −0.664; 95% CI: −0.967, −0.361; P < 0.001), and depression rate (RR = 0.632; 95% CI = 0.532, 0.750; P < 0.001) were significantly reduced in the RTIP group compared to the control group. Furthermore, overall quality of life was increased in the RTIP group than in the control group (SMD = 0.501; 95% CI: 0.314, 0.689; P < 0.001). In digestive system cancer patients, anxiety/depression scores and rates were reduced, and the overall quality of life was elevated in the RTIP group in comparison with the control group (all P < 0.050). The quality of evidence was generally high, with a low risk of bias in most studies and no publication bias in any outcomes (all P > 0.050).

Conclusion

RTIP attenuates anxiety and depression and improves the quality of life in cancer patients, benefitting their overall health condition.

Systematic Review Registration

This meta-analysis was registered at PROSPERO with registration number CRD42024563266.
A historical perspective on the neurobiology of speech and language: from the 19th century to the present
Authors: Tremblay Pascale , Brambati Simona M.
Published: September 2024

In this essay, we review 19th century conceptions on the neurobiology of speech and language, including the pioneer work of Franz Gall, Jean-Baptiste Bouillaud, Simon Alexandre Ernest Aubertin, Marc Dax, Paul Broca, and Carl Wernicke. We examine how these early investigations, anchored in the study of neurological disorders, have broadened their scope via neuropsychological and psycholinguistic theories and models. Then, we discuss how major technological advances have led to an important paradigm shift, through which the study of the brain slowly detached from the study of disease to become the study of individuals of all ages, with or without brain pathology or language disorders. The profusion of neuroimaging studies that were conducted in the past four decades, inquiring into various aspects of language have complemented—and often challenged—classical views on language production. Our understanding of the “motor speech center,” for instance, has been entirely transformed. The notion of cerebral dominance has also been revisited. We end this paper by discussing the challenges and controversies of 21st century neurobiology of speech and language as well as modern views of the neural architecture supporting speech and language functions.
The impact of mindfulness intervention on negative emotions and quality of life in malignant tumor patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Zhang , Lei Dong , Ting Li , Yao Ran , Jing Wu , Na Mi
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aims to assess the effect of mindfulness intervention on negative emotions (anxiety and depression) and quality of life in malignant tumor patients.

Methods

The databases, including CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database disc (CBMdisc), PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science (WoS), were searched from inception to January 2024. Randomized controlled trials examining the effects of mindfulness intervention on negative emotions and quality of life in malignant tumor patients were selected. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.1.

Results

A total of 11 studies involving 993 patients were included. Compared with usual care, mindfulness intervention effectively reduced anxiety [SMD = −0.81, 95% CI (−1.01, −0.60), p < 0.00001], depression [SMD = −0.86, 95% CI (−1.01, −0.70), p < 0.00001], and improved patients’ quality of life [SMD = 0.64, 95% CI (0.50, 0.78), p < 0.00001].

Conclusion

Mindfulness intervention can effectively alleviate negative emotions such as anxiety and depression in malignant tumor patients and positively impact their quality of life.
Post-traumatic stress disorder among military personnel admitted at the Northwest Command Level Three Military Hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, 2022: an institution-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Tedla Assasahegn , Asnakew Sintayehu , Legas Getasew , Munie Birhanu Mengist , Tareke Minale , Beka Micheal
Published: September 2024

Background

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common mental health problems that military personnel encounter. It could be lifelong and affect every aspect of military personnel, including their mental and physical health, family and social interactions, and their work. However, in Ethiopia, the magnitude and its associated factors have not been well investigated.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PTSD and its associated factors among military personnel, who were admitted at the Northwest Command Level Three Military Hospital, Bahir Dar, Northwest, Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 21 June to 21 July 2022, at the Northwest Command Level Three Military Hospital. A computer-generated simple random sampling technique was used to select a total of 627 participants. The 17-item Military Version Checklist was utilized to measure PTSD. The Patient Health Questionnaire, Brief Resilience Coping, and Critical War Zone Experience scale were utilized to measure depression, resilience, and combat exposure, respectively. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate binary logistic regressions with odds ratios and a 95% confidence interval were used. The level of significance of the association was determined at a p-value < 0.05.

Results

A total of 612 respondents participated, with a response rate of 97.6%. The prevalence of PTSD in this study was 21.9% (95% CI: 18.6, 25.2). In multivariable regression, female sex [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.3, 95% CI; 1.3, 3.87], combat personnel (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI; 1.44, 6.36), handling dead bodies (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI,1.24, 5.02), having 4–5 deployments (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI, 1.63, 5.32), having ≥6 deployments (AOR = 3.4, 95% CI, 1.95, 6.17), low resilience coping (AOR = 2.02, 95% CI; 1.16, 3.53), poor social support (AOR = 2.46, 95% CI, 1.39, 4.35), very high combat exposures (AOR = 4.8, 95% CI, 2.03, 11.93), and depression (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI, 1.68, 4.67) were significantly associated with PTSD.

Conclusion

PTSD is markedly prevalent among the Ethiopian military population, with key risk factors identified as being female, poor social support, low resilience coping skills, handling dead bodies, multiple deployments (four or more), high combat experiences, and depression. Healthcare professionals must prioritize the early diagnosis and intervention of PTSD in vulnerable groups of military personnel.
Correlating plasma protein profiles with symptomatology and treatment response in acute phase and early remission of major depressive disorder
Authors: Křenek Pavel , Bartečková Eliška , Makarová Markéta , Pompa Tomáš , Fialová Kučerová Jana , Kučera Jan , Damborská Alena , Hořínková Jana , Bienertová-Vašků Julie
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the relationship between plasma proteome and the clinical features of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) during treatment of acute episode.

Methods

In this longitudinal observational study, 26 patients hospitalized for moderate to severe MDD were analyzed. The study utilized Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) alongside clinical metrics, including symptomatology derived from the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Plasma protein analysis was conducted at the onset of acute depression and 6 weeks into treatment. Analytical methods comprised of Linear Models for Microarray Data (LIMMA), Weighted Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA), Generalized Linear Models, Random Forests, and The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID).

Results

Five distinct plasma protein modules were identified, correlating with specific biological processes, and uniquely associated with symptom presentation, the disorder’s trajectory, and treatment response. A module rich in proteins related to adaptive immunity was correlated with the manifestation of somatic syndrome, treatment response, and inversely associated with achieving remission. A module associated with cell adhesion was linked to affective symptoms and avolition, and played a role in the initial episodes and treatment response. Another module, characterized by proteins involved in blood coagulation and lipid transport, exhibited negative correlations with a variety of MDD symptoms and was predominantly associated with the manifestation of psychotic symptoms.

Conclusion

This research points to a complex interplay between the plasma proteome and MDD’s clinical presentation, suggesting that somatic, affective, and psychotic symptoms may represent distinct endophenotypic manifestations of MDD. These insights hold potential for advancing targeted therapeutic strategies and diagnostic tools.

Limitations

The study’s limited sample size and its naturalistic design, encompassing diverse treatment modalities, present methodological constraints. Furthermore, the analysis focused on peripheral blood proteins, with potential implications for interpretability.
Evidence map of traditional Chinese exercises
Authors: Yu Yan , Wu Tongtong , Wu Murou , Liu Shaonan , Chen Xueyin , Wu Jinpeng , Guo Xinfeng , Yang Lihong
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess and visually depict the clinical evidence landscape of traditional Chinese exercises and identify any research gaps and future research needs.

Methods

We comprehensively searched seven Chinese and English databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews (SRs) evaluating the effects of traditional Chinese exercises from their inception until May 2023. The quality of evidence was assessed via the GRADE approach, and the research topics, intervention effects, and strength of evidence were graphically displayed.

Results

This evidence map includes 2,017 studies, comprising 1,822 RCTs and 195 SRs. These studies were conducted globally in various countries. Among the traditional Chinese exercises, Tai Chi and Baduanjin have received the most research attention, with a growing number of publications. When traditional Chinese exercises were compared with the control groups, 88.2% of the included SRs reported significantly positive effects, 4.1% reported unclear effects, and 7.7% reported no significant differences. The findings suggested that traditional Chinese exercises could benefit patients with osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, anxiety, and depression. However, the overall quality of the evidence was suboptimal, with 11.3% rated as moderate, 45.6% as low, and 43.1% as critically low.

Conclusion

This evidence map visually represents valuable information on traditional Chinese exercises. While most studies have reported significant benefits, the overall quality of evidence is low.
Career adaptability and correlating factors among secondary vocational nursing students in China
Authors: Xiang Yuhe , Li Lin , Yang Qin , Fang YiQian , Xu Wenbin , Ding Xing , Yang Qian
Published: September 2024

Background

Career adaptability significantly affects college students’ career happiness in the future, and it is essential to make a detailed evaluation of its correlation for making a targeted intervention plan. However, the applicability of occupational adaptability to secondary vocational nursing students is still an unexplored field in academic research.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the current situation of career adaptability and its influencing factors on secondary vocational nursing students in medical schools.

Methods

A total of 1,414 secondary vocational nursing students from three secondary colleges and universities in Southwest China from July 2022 to September 2022 were selected for the survey. A questionnaire was used to assess secondary vocational nursing students’ sociodemographic, Career Adaptability, Psychological Control Sources, and the Meaning in Life. Statistical analyses were performed using Pearson’s correlation analysis, t-test, analysis of variance and multiple.

Results

Secondary vocational nursing students scored (51.03 ± 9.64) for the meaning in life, (81.46 ± 25.39) for psychological control sources, and (94.12 ± 15.55) for career adaptability. Career resilience was significantly and positively correlated with the opportunity and internal control factors of psychological control sources (r = 0.091, −0.488, p < 0.01); and career adaptability was significantly and positively correlated with the sense of seeking meaning and possessing meaning factors of sense of meaning in life (r = 0.725, 0.734, p < 0.01); Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that academic performance, mother’s educational level, search for meaning, sense of meaningfulness, opportunities, and internal control entered the regression equation (p < 0.05), explaining 64% of the total variance.

Conclusion

The overall career adaptability of secondary vocational nursing students is at a moderately high level, with significant individual differences closely correlated with locus of control, meaning in life, and career adaptability. Nursing educators can provide targeted intervention measures based on influencing factors to promote the development of secondary vocational nursing students’ career adaptability, enabling them to better adapt to future clinical work.