bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between fatigue, peripheral serotonin, and L-carnitine in hypothyroidism and in chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Raij Tommi , Raij Kari
Published: March 2024

Background

Fatigue of unknown origin is a hallmark symptom in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and is also found in 20% of hypothyroidism patients despite appropriate levothyroxine treatment. Here, we suggest that in these disorders, peripheral serotonin levels are low, and elevating them to normal range with L-carnitine is accompanied with reduced fatigue.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of follow-up clinical data (CFS N=12; hypothyroidism with fatigue N=40) where serum serotonin and fatigue levels were compared before vs. after 7 weeks of oral L-carnitine supplementation.

Results

After L-carnitine, serotonin increased (8-fold in CFS, Sig. = 0.002, 6-fold in hypothyroidism, Sig. < 0.001) whereas fatigue decreased (2-fold in both CFS and hypothyroidism, Sig. = 0.002 for CFS, Sig. < 0.001 for hypothyroidism). There was a negative correlation between serotonin level and fatigue (for CFS, rho = -0.49 before and -0.67 after L-carnitine; for hypothyroidism, rho = -0.24 before and -0.83 after L-carnitine).

Conclusions

These findings suggest a new link between low peripheral serotonin, L-carnitine, and fatigue.
Comparison of the effects of monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids on the lipotoxicity of islets
Authors: Liu Wen , Zhu Min , Liu Jingyi , Su Shan , Zeng Xin , Fu Fudong , Lu Yanrong , Rao Zhiyong , Chen Younan
Published: March 2024

Background

Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been reported to combat saturated fatty acid (SFA)-induced cellular damage, however, their clinical effects on patients with metabolic diseases such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia are still controversial. Since comparative studies of the effects of these two types of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) are still limited. In this study, we aimed to compare the protective effects of various UFAs on pancreatic islets under the stress of SFA-induced metabolic disorder and lipotoxicity.

Methods

Rat insulinoma cell line INS-1E were treated with palmitic acid (PA) with or without UFAs including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), arachidonic acid (AA), and oleic acid (OA) to determine cell viability, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and inflammatory. In vivo, male C57BL/6 mice were fed a 60% high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 w. Then the lard in HFD was partially replaced with fish oil (FO) and olive oil (OO) at low or high proportions of energy (5% or 20%) to observe the ameliorative effects of the UFA supplement.

Results

All UFAs significantly improved PA-induced cell viability impairment in INS-1E cells, and their alleviation on PA induced apoptosis, ER stress and inflammation were confirmed. Particularly, OA had better effects than EPA, DHA, and AA on attenuating cellular ER stress. In vivo, the diets with a low proportion of UFAs (5% of energy) had limited effects on HFD induced metabolic disorder, except for a slight improved intraperitoneal glucose tolerance in obese mice. However, when fed diets containing a high proportion of UFAs (20% of energy), both the FO and OO groups exhibited substantially improved glucose and lipid metabolism, such as decrease in total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and fasting blood insulin (FBI)) and improvement of insulin sensitivity evidenced by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) and intraperitoneal insulin tolerance test (IPITT). Unexpectedly, FO resulted in abnormal elevation of the liver function index aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in serum. Pathologically, OO attenuated HFD-induced compensatory hyperplasia of pancreatic islets, while this effect was not obvious in the FO group.

Conclusions

Both MUFAs and PUFAs can effectively protect islet β cells from SFA-induced cellular lipotoxicity. In particular, both OA in vitro and OO in vivo showed superior activities on protecting islets function and enhance insulin sensitivity, suggesting that MUFAs might have greater potential for nutritional intervention on diabetes.
The ethology of foraging in ants: revisiting Tinbergen’s four questions
Authors: Lima Vieira Maria Eduarda , Chameron Stéphane , Châline Nicolas
Published: March 2024

Since Tinbergen’s seminal contribution in 1963, ethology has blossomed as a multifaceted research field. Sixty years later, uncountable articles followed the four questions proposed as necessary for understanding animal behaviour, and they culminated in the segmentation of subareas which communicate little among themselves. Foraging in ants is one example where this division happened, despite the clear need to integrate results obtained from different approaches. We chose this research subject to revise the literature, relating the main results to the relevant level of explanation in Tinbergen’s four questions theoretical framework. Through such revision, we aim to foster the integration of different approaches and to bring to light how this can clarify how we understand foraging behaviour, sixty years after Tinbergen’s initial proposition.
Association between systemic immune-inflammation index and psoriasis: a population-based study
Authors: Zhao Xiya , Li Junqin , Li Xinhua
Published: March 2024

Background

The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII),as measured by lymphocyte, neutrophil and platelet counts in peripheral blood, is regarded as a favorable indicator of both inflammatory state and immune response. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease notable for its chronic inflammation of the entire system. Our research sought to explore the latent link between psoriasis and SII.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional investigation utilizing data extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2009-2014). Employing multivariate linear regression models and subgroup analysis, we sought to uncover the association between SII and psoriasis.

Results

This study enrolled a total of 17,913 participants as part of its research cohort. Our multivariate linear regression analysis revealed a notable and positive correlation between SII and psoriasis [1.013 (1.000, 1.026)]. As SII tertiles increased, the risk of psoriasis demonstrated an upward trend. The significant dependence on this positive association were maintained in women, BMI(≥ 30 kg/m2),non-stroke and non-cancer subjects in subgroup analysis and interaction tests. Furthermore, we identified a significant association between SII and psoriasis, characterized by two consecutive inverted U-shaped patterns. Notably, the analysis revealed the most prominent inflection point at a specific value of 797.067.

Conclusions

The results indicate a significant correlation between elevated SII levels and the presence of psoriasis. However, to corroborate and strengthen these results, additional large-scale prospective studies are required.
Investigating the spatio–temporal characteristics of lower atmospheric ducts across the China seas by performing a long–term simulation using the WRF model
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhao Xiaofeng , Zou Jing , Hu Tong , Qiu Zhijin , Wang Bo , Li Zhiqian , Cui Chaoran , Cao Rui
Published: March 2024

In this work, a diagnostic scheme for lower atmospheric ducts was established based on the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. More specifically, a 10-year simulation test was conducted for the China seas to investigate the spatio-temporal characteristics of the lower atmospheric ducts phenomenon. Compared with the sounding data, the long-term simulations showed a high temporal correlation and the root mean square error of the modified atmospheric refractivity remained between 4 M and 7 M. Based on the simulations, significant regional differences in the occurrence probability of lower atmospheric ducts were detected from south to north. Among them, the surface ducts near the sea surface exhibited the highest occurrence probability, with higher probabilities being recorded in autumn and winter, and the probability gradually increased with the decreasing latitude. The spatio-temporal characteristics of duct height, thickness, and strength were generally consistent. In the seas at mid-latitudes, strong ducts mostly occurred in the spring and autumn, with the single-layer ducts being predominant and the first layer duct showing stronger characteristics than the second layer. In the lower latitude regions, the situation was exactly the opposite. The first duct layer, which existed throughout the year, exhibited weaker characteristics with less pronounced seasonal variations. On the other hand, the second duct layer demonstrated stronger features.
In-hospital stroke protocol outcomes before and after the implementation of neurological assessments by telemedicine: an observational case–control study
Authors: Massaud Rodrigo Meirelles , Accorsi Tarso Augusto Duenhas , Massant Cristina Gonçalves , Silva Gisele Sampaio , de Carvalho Leite Anna Verena , Franken Marcelo , Moreira Flavio Tocci , Köhler Karen Francine , De Amicis Lima Karine , Morbeck Renata Albaladejo , Pedrotti Carlos Henrique Sartorato
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Stroke is the second leading cause of global adult mortality and the primary cause of disability. A rapid assessment by a neurologist for general and reperfusion treatments in ischemic strokes is linked to decreased mortality and disability. Telestroke assessment is a strategy that allows for neurological consultations with experienced professionals, even in remote emergency contexts. No randomized studies have compared face-to-face neurological care outcomes with telestroke care. Whether neurologists in an institution achieve better results remotely than in person is also unknown. This study aimed to compare mortality and other outcomes commonly measured in stroke protocols for stroke patients assessed by a neurologist via face-to-face evaluations and telestroke assessment.

Methods

Observational single-center retrospective study from August/2009 to February/2022, enrolling 2,689 patients with ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and intracerebral hemorrhage. Group 1 (G1) comprised 2,437 patients with in-person neurological assessments, and Telemedicine Group 2 (G2) included 252 patients.

Results

The in-person group had higher admission NIHSS scores (G1, 3 (0; 36) vs. G2, 2 (0; 26), p < 0.001). The door-to-groin puncture time was lower in the in-person group than in the telestroke group (G1, 103 (42; 310) vs. G2, 151 (109; 340), p < 0.001). The telestroke group showed superior metrics for door-to-imaging time, symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation rate in ischemic stroke patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis, hospital stay duration, higher rates of intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy, and lower mortality. Symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation rate was smaller in the group evaluated via telestroke (G1, 5.1% vs. G2, 1.1%, p = 0.016). Intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy rates were significantly higher in telestroke group: (G1, 8.6% vs. G2, 18.2%, p < 0.001 and G1, 5.1% vs. G2, 10.4%, p = 0.002, respectively). Mortality was lower in the telestroke group than in the in-person group (G1, 11.1% vs. G2, 6.7%, p = 0.001). The percentage of patients with an mRS score of 0–2 at discharge was similar in both groups when adjusting for NIHSS score and age.

Conclusion

The same neurological emergency team may assess stroke patients in-person or by telemedicine, with excellent outcome metrics. This study reaffirms telestroke as a safe tool in acute stroke care.
Effective connectivity of working memory performance: a DCM study of MEG data
Authors: Santo-Angles Aniol , Temudo Ainsley , Babushkin Vahan , Sreenivasan Kartik K.
Published: March 2024

Visual working memory (WM) engages several nodes of a large-scale network that includes frontal, parietal, and visual regions; however, little is understood about how these regions interact to support WM behavior. In particular, it is unclear whether network dynamics during WM maintenance primarily represent feedforward or feedback connections. This question has important implications for current debates about the relative roles of frontoparietal and visual regions in WM maintenance. In the current study, we investigated the network activity supporting WM using MEG data acquired while healthy subjects performed a multi-item delayed estimation WM task. We used computational modeling of behavior to discriminate correct responses (high accuracy trials) from two different types of incorrect responses (low accuracy and swap trials), and dynamic causal modeling of MEG data to measure effective connectivity. We observed behaviorally dependent changes in effective connectivity in a brain network comprising frontoparietal and early visual areas. In comparison with high accuracy trials, frontoparietal and frontooccipital networks showed disrupted signals depending on type of behavioral error. Low accuracy trials showed disrupted feedback signals during early portions of WM maintenance and disrupted feedforward signals during later portions of maintenance delay, while swap errors showed disrupted feedback signals during the whole delay period. These results support a distributed model of WM that emphasizes the role of visual regions in WM storage and where changes in large scale network configurations can have important consequences for memory-guided behavior.
Understanding the mechanism of acupuncture in acute cerebral infraction through a proteomic analysis: protocol for a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cao Jiangpeng , Du Yuanhao , Yin Xiumei , Zheng Na , Han Jiawei , Chen Linling , Jia Lanyu
Published: March 2024

Background

Acute cerebral infarction (ACI), being the predominant form of stroke, presents challenges in terms of the limited effectiveness of various treatments in improving the neurological function. Although acupuncture shows promise in addressing ACI, the availability of high-quality evidence regarding its efficacy, safety, and underlying mechanism remains insufficient. In this study, we design a multicenter, prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial with the aim of evaluating the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for ACI, making an attempt to unveil the molecular mechanisms by proteomic.

Methods

A total of 132 patients involving four hospitals will be randomized at a 1:1:1 ratio in the acupuncture group, control group, and sham acupuncture group. All the patients will receive basic treatment, and the patients in the acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups will also receive either acupuncture or sham acupuncture treatment, respectively, at six sessions each week for a 2 weeks period, followed by 3 months of follow-up. The primary outcome will be the change in the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores after treatment. The secondary outcomes will include the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) scale scores and the Barthel Index (BI). Adverse events that occur during the trial will be documented. To discover differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and their roles between the ACI subjects and healthy controls, we will also perform 4D-DIA quantitative proteomics analysis, and the DEPs will be confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This study was approved by the institutional review board of the First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TYLL2023043). Written informed consent from patients is required. This trial is registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300079204). Trial results will be published in a peer-reviewed academic journal.

Discussion

The results of this study will determine the preliminary efficacy and safety of acupuncture in ACI patients and whether the mechanism of this form of non-pharmacologic stimulation is mediated by a novel therapeutic target for neurorehabilitation through our proteomic analysis.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2300079204.
Integrating network pharmacology with molecular docking to rationalize the ethnomedicinal use of Alchornea laxiflora (Benth.) Pax & K. Hoffm. for efficient treatment of depression
Authors: Jain Nem Kumar , Tailang Mukul , Chandrasekaran Balakumar , Khazaleh Nasha’t , Thangavel Neelaveni , Makeen Hafiz A. , Albratty Mohammed , Najmi Asim , Alhazmi Hassan Ahmad , Zoghebi Khalid , Alagusundaram M. , Jain Hemant Kumar
Published: March 2024

Background: Alchornea laxiflora (Benth.) Pax & K. Hoffm. (A. laxiflora) has been indicated in traditional medicine to treat depression. However, scientific rationalization is still lacking. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the antidepressant potential of A. laxiflora using network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis.

Materials and methods: The active compounds and potential targets of A. laxiflora and depression-related targets were retrieved from public databases, such as PubMed, PubChem, DisGeNET, GeneCards, OMIM, SwissTargetprediction, BindingDB, STRING, and DAVID. Essential bioactive compounds, potential targets, and signaling pathways were predicted using in silico analysis, including BA-TAR, PPI, BA-TAR-PATH network construction, and GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Later on, with molecular docking analysis, the interaction of essential bioactive compounds of A. laxiflora and predicted core targets of depression were verified.

Results: The network pharmacology approach identified 15 active compounds, a total of 219 compound-related targets, and 14,574 depression-related targets with 200 intersecting targets between them. SRC, EGFR, PIK3R1, AKT1, and MAPK1 were the core targets, whereas 3-acetyloleanolic acid and 3-acetylursolic acid were the most active compounds of A. laxiflora with anti-depressant potential. GO functional enrichment analysis revealed 129 GO terms, including 82 biological processes, 14 cellular components, and 34 molecular function terms. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis yielded significantly enriched 108 signaling pathways. Out of them, PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways might have a key role in treating depression. Molecular docking analysis results exhibited that core targets of depression, such as SRC, EGFR, PIK3R1, AKT1, and MAPK1, bind stably with the analyzed bioactive compounds of A. laxiflora.

Conclusion: The present study elucidates the bioactive compounds, potential targets, and pertinent mechanism of action of A. laxiflora in treating depression. A. laxiflora might exert an antidepressant effect by regulating PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. However, further investigations are required to validate.
Traditional Chinese medicine and its active substances reduce vascular injury in diabetes via regulating autophagic activity
Authors: Gao Yankui , Zhang Lei , Zhang Fei , Liu Rong , Liu Lei , Li Xiaoyan , Zhu Xiangdong , Liang Yonglin
Published: March 2024

Due to its high prevalence, poor prognosis, and heavy burden on healthcare costs, diabetic vascular complications have become a significant public health issue. Currently, the molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying diabetes-induced vascular complications remain incompletely understood. Autophagy, a highly conserved process of lysosomal degradation, maintains intracellular homeostasis and energy balance via removing protein aggregates, damaged organelles, and exogenous pathogens. Increasing evidence suggests that dysregulated autophagy may contribute to vascular abnormalities in various types of blood vessels, including both microvessels and large vessels, under diabetic conditions. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possesses the characteristics of “multiple components, multiple targets and multiple pathways,” and its safety has been demonstrated, particularly with minimal toxicity in liver and kidney. Thus, TCM has gained increasing attention from researchers. Moreover, recent studies have indicated that Chinese herbal medicine and its active compounds can improve vascular damage in diabetes by regulating autophagy. Based on this background, this review summarizes the classification, occurrence process, and related molecular mechanisms of autophagy, with a focus on discussing the role of autophagy in diabetic vascular damage and the protective effects of TCM and its active compounds through the regulation of autophagy in diabetes. Moreover, we systematically elucidate the autophagic mechanisms by which TCM formulations, individual herbal extracts, and active compounds regulate diabetic vascular damage, thereby providing new candidate drugs for clinical treatment of vascular complications in diabetes. Therefore, further exploration of TCM and its active compounds with autophagy-regulating effects holds significant research value for achieving targeted therapeutic approaches for diabetic vascular complications.
Accelerating haploid induction rate and haploid validation through marker-assisted selection for qhir1 and qhir8 in maize
Authors: Khammona Kanogporn , Dermail Abil , Suriharn Khundej , Lübberstedt Thomas , Wanchana Samart , Thunnom Burin , Poncheewin Wasin , Toojinda Theerayut , Ruanjaichon Vinitchan , Arikit Siwaret
Published: March 2024

Doubled haploid (DH) technology becomes more routinely applied in maize hybrid breeding. However, some issues in haploid induction and identification persist, requiring resolution to optimize DH production. Our objective was to implement simultaneous marker-assisted selection (MAS) for qhir1 (MTL/ZmPLA1/NLD) and qhir8 (ZmDMP) using TaqMan assay in F2 generation of four BHI306-derived tropical × temperate inducer families. We also aimed to assess their haploid induction rate (HIR) in the F3 generation as a phenotypic response to MAS. We highlighted remarkable increases in HIR of each inducer family. Genotypes carrying qhir1 and qhir8 exhibited 1 – 3-fold higher haploid frequency than those carrying only qhir1. Additionally, the qhir1 marker was employed for verifying putative haploid seedlings at 7 days after planting. Flow cytometric analysis served as the gold standard test to assess the accuracy of the R1-nj and the qhir1 marker. The qhir1 marker showed high accuracy and may be integrated in multiple haploid identifications at early seedling stage succeeding pre-haploid sorting via R1-nj marker.
The diversity of well-being indicators: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Horton Calen J. , Walsh Lisa C. , Rodriguez Anthony , Kaufman Victor A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Research on the dimensional structure of subjective well-being (SWB) suggests a five-dimensional solution, consisting of the three established dimensions of life satisfaction, positive affect, and negative affect, and two additional empirically supported dimensions: domain satisfaction and happiness. While these dimensions can be aggregated into a superordinate SWB construct, little research has explored how these dimensions differ in their variation across subpopulations of individuals.

Methods

The present study addresses this gap via secondary analysis of a sample of 1,487 partnered individuals, using the five dimensions of SWB as indicators for latent profile analysis.

Results

Analyses returned five profiles, which we labeled Satisfied, Ambivalent, Indifferent, Dissatisfied, and Very Dissatisfied. In the Ambivalent and Indifferent profiles, the dimensions of negative affect and happiness exhibit discrepant behavior, resulting in shape differences. The five profiles are organized with reference to the external criterion of couple satisfaction. At the theoretical level, the results of the present study have the potential to inform current debates about the structure of well-being.

Discussion

These findings suggest that, while SWB can usually be measured as a unidimensional construct, there is still merit to using multidimensional approaches and alternative forms of measurement—such as LPA—that capture complexities normally absent from unidimensional treatments. At the practical level, the results of the current study have the potential to inform well-being interventions (both clinical and otherwise), suggesting that those dealing with well-being in real life situations should pause before concluding that the absence of negativity implies the presence of positivity, or vice versa.
The moderating effects of parental psychological control on the relationship between unsociability and socio-emotional functioning among Chinese children
Authors: Zheng Hong , Hu Yihao , Cao Yuchen , Li Ran , Wang Nan , Chen Xi , Chen Ting , Liu Junsheng
Published: March 2024

Introduction

There have been studies indicating that children’s unsociability was associated with poorer socio-emotional functioning in China. Although some researchers have found that parenting behavior would influence the relationship between children’s unsociability and adjustment, the role of parental psychological control has not been explored. This study aimed to investigate the moderating effect of parental psychological control on the relationship between unsociability and socio-emotional functioning in Chinese children.

Methods

A total of 1,275 students from Grades 3 to 7 (637 boys, Mage = 10.78 years, SD = 1.55 years) were selected from four public schools in Shanghai to participate in this study. Data of unsociability, peer victimization and social preference were collected from peer-nominations, and data of parental psychological control, depressive symptoms and social anxiety were collected from self-reports.

Results

There were positive associations between unsociability and peer victimization, depressive symptoms, and social anxiety, as well as a negative association between unsociability and social preference. Parental psychological control moderated these associations, specifically, the associations between unsociability and peer victimization, social preference, and depressive symptoms were stronger, and the association between unsociability and social anxiety was only significant among children with higher level of parental psychological control.

Discussion

The findings in the current study highlight the importance of parental psychological control in the socio-emotional functioning of unsociable children in the Chinese context, enlightening educators that improving parenting behavior is essential for children’s development.
IPVAW male perpetrators convicted in Spain: a typology and characterization based on latent class analysis
Authors: Osa-Subtil Iria de la , Astray Andrés Arias , Mateo Fernandez Pedro V. , de Dios-Duarte María J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Men who assault their partners present deficits in the social skills necessary for adequate interpersonal interaction. Not all of them have the same difficulties, thus they do not constitute a homogeneous group. Various studies have proposed different typologies of abusers based on their sociodemographic characteristics, criminal history, intensity and extent of violent or psychopathological traits. The majority of these investigations have been conducted in community samples, prompting the question of their validity in samples of men convicted of gender violence. The aim of this study was to establish a typology of men convicted in Spain for a gender violences crimes.

Methodology

A total of 365 men participated and were subdivided into three classes of abusers based on their childhood, family experiences with violence, criminal history, sexist attitudes and attitudes toward violence, intensity and type of violence, psychopathological state and attachment style.

Results

Coinciding with the results found in other research, 30% of the participants were classified as generally violent. They engaged in severe forms of physical, psychological and sexual violence and were more likely to do so than the rest. Additionally, they are more likely to present psychopathological problems and an antisocial character. Twenty-one percent were classified as dysphoric/borderline. They are characterized by minor forms of psychological violence, borderline or depressive symptomatology and an anxious attachment style. The remaining 49% were classified as familial or normalized abusers. This group exhibits moderate attitudes toward violence and sexism, resulting in less psychological and physical aggression. They do not present psychopathological problems and are likely to present a secure attachment style.

Discussion

It is argued that determining the psychological characteristics of each type of abuser would contribute to improving and adapting intervention protocols in Spain, leading to a significant improvement in the current issue of abuse.
Case report: Psychosis with catatonia in an adult man: a presentation of neurosarcoidosis
Authors: Van Hoye Griet , Willekens Barbara , Vanden Bossche Stephanie , Morrens Manuel , Van Den Eede Filip
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem non-caseous granulomatous disease of unknown origin with predominant lung involvement and a variable clinical course. Although rare, neuropsychiatric manifestations such as confusion, problems in orientation, memory dysfunction, delusions, hallucinations and catatonia can be presenting features of sarcoidosis with nervous system involvement, also known as neurosarcoidosis.

Case description

We present a 39-year-old man with acute-onset vertigo, balance problems and confusion quickly developing delusions, hallucinations, catatonic symptoms and suicidal behaviour. Symptoms appeared to be a manifestation of neurosarcoidosis.

Diagnostic assessment

The differential diagnosis of psychosis is broad and should include pertinent auto-immune disorders, paraneoplastic, oncologic, metabolic, and neurodegenerative disorders. Basic systemic screening should include blood and urinary tests, a chest X-ray, brain CT scan and ECG. If neurosarcoidosis is suspected, an MRI of the brain with contrast and lumbar puncture are most appropriate. Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to arrive at a correct diagnosis and effective management of the patient.

Discussion

Despite the large number of sarcoidosis and psychosis studies, the etiology and pathogenesis of both illnesses remain incompletely understood. A common inflammatory etiopathological pathway has been postulated.

Conclusions

Clinicians should consider organic causes when confronted with a middle-aged patient experiencing a first psychotic episode with an atypical onset, catatonic features, or dysfunction in orientation and/or memory, a complete lack of a positive familial psychiatric history and/or an atypical response to (psycho)pharmacological treatment.
Treatment of antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Jiang Qitong , Li Tian , Zhao Lei , Sun Yue , Mao Zhen , Xing Yujie , Wang Chuanyue , Bo Qijing
Published: March 2024

Background

Hyperprolactinemia is a common antipsychotic-induced adverse event in psychiatric patients, and the quality of clinical studies investigating the best treatments has varied. Thus, to better summarize the clinical evidence, we performed an umbrella review of overlapping systematic reviews and meta-analyses for the treatment of antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia.

Methods

The PubMed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Scopus and EMBASE were searched, and reviews and meta-analyses meeting our inclusion criteria were selected. Relevant data were extracted, and an umbrella review was conducted of all included meta-analyses. The quality of included meta-analyses was assessed by using PRISMA scores and AMSTAR 2 quality evaluation. Finally, the clinical evidence for appropriate treatments was summarized and discussed.

Results

Five meta-analyses published between 2013 and 2020 met the requirements for inclusion in this umbrella review. The PRISMA scores of the included meta-analyses ranged from 19.5–26. AMSTAR 2 quality evaluation showed that 2 of the 5 included meta-analyses were of low quality and 3 were of very low quality. The included meta-analyses provide clinical evidence that adding aripiprazole or a dopamine agonist can effectively and safely improve antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia. Two meta-analyses also showed that adjunctive metformin can reduce serum prolactin level, but more clinical trials are needed to confirm this finding.

Conclusion

Adjunctive dopamine agonists have been proven to be effective and safe for the treatment of antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia. Among the researched treatments, adding aripiprazole may be the most appropriate.
Shared and unique characteristics of metabolic syndrome in psychotic disorders: a review
Authors: Saccaro Luigi F. , Aimo Alberto , Panichella Giorgia , Sentissi Othman
Published: March 2024

Introduction

People with psychosis spectrum disorders (PSD) face an elevated risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), which may reduce their life expectancy by nearly 20%. Pinpointing the shared and specific characteristics and clinical implications of MetS in PSD is crucial for designing interventions to reduce this risk, but an up-to-date review on MetS across the psychosis spectrum is lacking.

Methods

This narrative review fills this gap by examining the clinical literature on characteristics and implications of MetS in both distinct PSD and transdiagnostically, i.e., across traditional categorical diagnoses, with a focus on psychiatric and cardio-metabolic management.

Results

We discuss common and specific characteristics of MetS in PSD, as well as factors contributing to MetS development in PSD patients, including unhealthy lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, pro-inflammatory state, drugs consumption, antipsychotic medication, and psychotic symptoms. We highlight the importance of early identification and management of cardio-metabolic risk in PSD patients, as well as the existing gaps in the literature, for instance in the screening for MetS in younger PSD patients. We compare hypotheses-generating clinical associations and characteristics of MetS in different PSD, concluding by reviewing the existing recommendations and challenges in screening, monitoring, and managing MetS in PSD.

Conclusion

Early identification and management of MetS are crucial to mitigate the long-term cardio-metabolic toll in PSD patients. Interventions should focus on healthy lifestyle and appropriate pharmacological and behavioral interventions. Further translational and clinical research is needed to develop targeted interventions and personalized treatment approaches for this vulnerable population, aiming at improving physical health and overall well-being.
Net benefit of smaller human populations to environmental integrity and individual health and wellbeing
Authors: Saraswati Chitra Maharani , Judge Melinda A. , Weeda Lewis J. Z. , Bassat Quique , Prata Ndola , Le Souëf Peter N. , Bradshaw Corey J. A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The global human population is still growing such that our collective enterprise is driving environmental catastrophe. Despite a decline in average population growth rate, we are still experiencing the highest annual increase of global human population size in the history of our species—averaging an additional 84 million people per year since 1990. No review to date has accumulated the available evidence describing the associations between increasing population and environmental decline, nor solutions for mitigating the problems arising.

Methods

We summarize the available evidence of the relationships between human population size and growth and environmental integrity, human prosperity and wellbeing, and climate change. We used PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science to identify all relevant peer-reviewed and gray-literature sources examining the consequences of human population size and growth on the biosphere. We reviewed papers describing and quantifying the risks associated with population growth, especially relating to climate change.

Results

These risks are global in scale, such as greenhouse-gas emissions, climate disruption, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and spread of disease—all potentially catastrophic for human standards of living, health, and general wellbeing. The trends increasing the risks of global population growth are country development, demographics, maternal education, access to family planning, and child and maternal health.

Conclusion

Support for nations still going through a demographic transition is required to ensure progress occurs within planetary boundaries and promotes equity and human rights. Ensuring the wellbeing for all under this aim itself will lower population growth and further promote environmental sustainability.
Selected elements of the lifestyle of Silesian seniors, taking into account their participation in the activities of the Third Age Universities
Authors: Dąbek Józefa , Szynal Magdalena , Łebek Ewelina , Sierka Oskar
Published: March 2024

Introduction

UTA can provide older adult people with the satisfaction of needs and creates the opportunity to pursue youthful interests and passions. The aim of the study was to assess selected elements of the lifestyle of Silesian seniors, taking into account their participation in the activities of Universities of the Third Age.

Methods

The study involved 631 (100%) senior residents of the Silesian agglomeration. The majority of the study group were women (475; 75.28%), and the average age of the participants was 70.28 ± 6.09 years. To conduct the study, an original survey questionnaire was used, complemented by PPS-10, PAQE and Yesavage Geriatric Depression Rating Scale.

Results

Among the surveyed Silesian seniors who did not attend classes at the University of the Third Age, a statistically significantly higher score on the Yesavage’s Geriatric Depression Rating Scale was found compared to those confirming their participation in the mentioned activity (p = 0.002). Almost 40% (107; 38.63%) of seniors who did not attend classes at the Universities of the Third Age showed a high level of stress, and every fourth (89; 25.14%) Silesian senior taking part in the above-mentioned activity had a low level of stress (p = 0.04). The median of points obtained on the physical activity assessment scale (PAQE) by seniors attending classes at Universities of the Third Age was statistically higher than seniors who denied participation in the mentioned activity (p = 0.017).

Conclusion

Participation in the various activities at the Universities of the Third Age influenced positively well-being, reduced stress and raised physical activity of examined seniors. It is important to promote and start actions leading to seniors’ better and easier inclusion to the society life. Future research should concentrate on reasons why many seniors do not attend activities in their leisure time - especially on accessibility of various activities and financial reasons, which in the future will play crucial role in the aging societies.
Reducing the “digital divide” to reap the “digital dividend”: spatial differences and convergence of the digital economy in cities of China
Authors: Han Jing , Song Yang , Chen Jisheng
Published: March 2024

Bridging the “digital divide” to benefit from the “digital dividend” reflects the inclusive development of the digital economy, which affects the sustainable development of the overall economy and society. Based on the different spatial perspectives of certain regions, city clusters, and cities, this study presents the “digital divide” and “digital dividend” for the development of China's digital economy. A combined entropy method was used to measure the development of the digital economy in cities of China from 2011 to 2019. The Dagum Gini coefficient and its decomposition were used to explore the spatial differences of the digital economy and their sources, while the coefficient of variation and the spatial panel model were used to examine the convergence of the digital economy. Our findings suggest that the development level of the digital economy in Chinese cities has continuously improved. Second, the spatial differences of the digital economy in the four regions and nine city clusters of China that were investigated are decreasing, indicating that the “digital divide” is narrowing and presenting a significant “digital dividend.” The total differences were mainly owing to those between the regions (among the city clusters). Third, the development of the digital economy in the four regions and nine city clusters demonstrated characteristics of σ, β, and club convergences. Finally, the evolution path of the spatial differentiation of the digital economy in cities of China is presented, and the “digital dividend” also demonstrates different stage characteristics. This study analyzed the spatial differences in the digital economy of cities in China and clarified the convergence and influence mechanisms of its development at different spatial scales. The findings provide a basis for the evolution of spatial and temporal patterns of the digital economy of cities in China and presents policy implications for promoting the regionally coordinated and sustainable development of the digital economy. Suggestions from the national and regional levels are more necessary to further narrow the “digital divide,” create a “digital dividend,” and digital drives sustainable economic development.
Case Report: Use of novel AR registration system for presurgical planning during vestibular schwannoma resection surgery
Authors: Olexa Joshua , Trang Annie , Flessner Rebecca , Labib Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Background and importance

Vestibular schwannomas are benign tumors and are the most common tumor found in the cerebellopontine angle. Surgical management of these lesions involves consideration of various operative approaches, which can have profound effects on procedural course and patient outcomes. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the location of the tumor and surrounding anatomical structures is vital for a positive outcome. We present a case of a 47-year-old female patient with vestibular schwannoma. A novel mixed reality (MR) system was used to register patient-specific 3D models onto the patient's head for operative planning and anatomical visualization.

Case description

A 47-year-old female presented with a history of left-sided hearing loss, tinnitus, and episodic left facial tingling. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) demonstrated a 3.3 cm enhancing lesion in the left cerebellopontine angle at the with mass effect on the brachium pontis and medulla. Surgical resection was performed via retrosigmoid craniotomy.

Conclusions

In this study, we report the use of Augmented Reality (AR) visualization for planning of vestibular schwannoma resection. This technology allows for efficient and accurate registration of a patient's 3D anatomical model onto their head while positioned in the operating room. This system is a powerful tool for operative planning as it allows the surgeon to visualize critical anatomical structures where they lie on the patient's head. The present case demonstrates the value and use of AR for operative planning of complex cranial lesions.
Design of Stress Release Support Mechanism for Large-Size Body-Mounted Radiator
Authors: Huang Xingxing , Han Kang , Lu Zhenyu , Zhang Shuncheng , Guo Liang
Published: March 2024

In order to reduce the influence of temperature deformation of large-size body-mounted radiators on the observation accuracy of space station telescopes and adapt to launch vibration loads, this paper proposes a floating combination stress release mechanism. Firstly, based on the dimensions, operating conditions, and stress directions of the radiator, an “orthogonal + parallel” layout of the radiator stress release mechanism is designed. To verify whether the layout design complies with the fully constrained theory, the layout design model is simplified into a four-point model, including one fixed support, two line-degree-of-freedom release mechanisms, and one plane-degree-of-freedom release mechanism. Degree-of-freedom analysis is conducted, and the statically determinate support goal is successfully achieved. Then, through the layout design of the stress release mechanism, specific modeling designs are carried out for the fixed support, line-degree-of-freedom release mechanisms, and plane-degree-of-freedom release mechanism using three-dimensional modeling software. Finally, the feasibility of the design scheme is verified through finite element simulation and mechanical testing. The results show that under sine and random vibrations, the maximum response amplification factor is 4.2, which meets the design requirement of being less than five. The maximum stress is 192 MPa, which is lower than the material’s yield limit. Under the application of an 80 °C temperature difference, the displacement response value of the radiator is 3.28 mm. This value falls within the allowable movement range of the stress release mechanism and meets the design criteria.
Virtual Validation of In-Flight GNSS Signal Reception during Jamming for Aeronautics Applications
Authors: Tripathi Veenu , Caizzone Stefano
Published: March 2024

Accurate navigation is a crucial asset for safe aviation operation. The GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) is set to play an always more important role in aviation but needs to cope with the risk of interference, possibly causing signal disruption and loss of navigation capability. It is crucial, therefore, to evaluate the impact of interference events on the GNSS system on board an aircraft, in order to plan countermeasures. This is currently obtained through expensive and time-consuming flight measurement campaigns. This paper shows on the other hand, a method developed to create a virtual digital twin, capable of reconstructing the entire flight scenario (including flight dynamics, actual antenna, and impact of installation on aircraft) and predicting the signal and interference reception at airborne level, with clear benefits in terms of reproducibility and easiness. Through simulations that incorporate jamming scenarios or any other interference scenarios, the effectiveness of the aircraft’s satellite navigation capability in the real environment can be evaluated, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making and system enhancement. By extension, the method shown can provide the ability to predict real-life outcomes even without the need for actual flight, enabling the analysis of different antenna-aircraft configurations in a specific interference scenario.