bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of siphonophores in the Northwest Pacific Ocean and links to environmental conditions
Authors: Park Nayeon , Choi Hyuntae , Shin Kyung-Hoon , Lee Wonchoel
Published: September 2023

Despite their abundance in marine ecosystems, studies on siphonophores are limited. In this study, 26 species of siphonophores in the Northwest Pacific Ocean were identified during multiple cruises of the R/V ISABU from 2018–2020, and various factors that may affect the occurrence of siphonophores, including water temperature, salinity, zooplankton biomass, and trophic niche were investigated. Statistical analysis revealed that the distribution of siphonophores and their biomass could be divided into two water mass groups, affected by the Kuroshio and Oyashio Currents. The species with high contributions to distinguishing the water mass groups (including Chelophyes contorta, Dimophyes arctica, Bassia bassensis, and Eudoxoides spiralis—mainly belonging to the Diphyidae) showed species-specific correlations with water temperature and salinity. This suggests that diphyids can be used as indicator species for currents and hydrological factors that influence water mass. The biomass of siphonophores exhibited a trend opposite to that of non-gelatinous zooplankton and showed no association with other gelatinous zooplankton. These results can be interpreted from an ecological niche perspective. Through nitrogen and carbon stable isotope analyses, the dietary sources of siphonophores could potentially overlap with those of chaetognaths or non-gelatinous zooplankton. Because the trophic position of siphonophores (2.4–3.2) also falls in the range of those of chaetognaths (2.8–3.4) and non-gelatinous zooplankton including copepods, euphausiids, and amphipods (2.4–3.5), diet competition with carnivorous mesozooplankton could be predicted. Considering that the diversity and biomass of most siphonophores are strongly positively correlated with water temperature and salinity, expansion of the Kuroshio Current is expected to lead to an increase in siphonophores in the Northwest Pacific in the future. The findings of this study are anticipated to provide novel insights into climate change prediction and response and enhance our understanding of siphonophore communities.
From coastal geomorphometry to virtual environments
Authors: Gross Felix , Petersen Lennart , Wallmeier Carolin , Barrett Rachel , Kwasnitschka Tom , Karstens Svenja
Published: September 2023

Communicating environmental change and mitigation scenarios to stakeholders and decision-makers can be challenging. Immersive environments offer an innovative approach for knowledge transfer, allowing science-based scenarios to be discussed interactively. The use of such environments is particularly helpful for the analysis of large, multi-component geospatial datasets, as commonly employed in the classification of ecosystems. Virtual environments can play an important role in conveying and discussing the findings gathered from these geomorphometric datasets. However, textured meshes and point clouds are not always well suited for direct import to a virtual reality or the creation of a truly immersive environment, and often result in geometrical artifacts, which can be misinterpreted during the import to a game engine. Such technical hurdles may lead to viewers rejecting the experience altogether, failing to achieve a higher educational purpose. In this study, we apply an asset-based approach to create an immersive virtual representation of a coastal environment. The focus hereby is on the coastal vegetation and changes in species distribution, which could potentially be triggered by the impact of climate change. We present an easy-to-use blueprint for the game engine EPIC Unreal Engine 5. In contrast to traditional virtual reality environments, which use static textured mesh data derived from photogrammetry, this asset-based approach enables the use of dynamic and physical properties (e.g. vegetation moving due to wind or waves), which makes the virtual environment more immersive. This will help to stimulate understanding and discussion amongst different stakeholders, and will also help to foster inclusion in earth- and environmental science education.
Propidium Monoazide based selective iDNA monitoring method improves eDNA monitoring for harmful algal bloom Alexandrium species
Authors: Yun Kun-Woo , Son Hwa-Seong , Seong Min-Jun , Kim Mu-Chan
Published: September 2023

eDNA, also known as environmental DNA, has garnered significant attention due to its potential applications in various fields such as biodiversity assessment, species distribution monitoring, ecological interaction analysis, and quantitative analysis. However, the presence of non-selective DNA signals in eDNA samples poses challenges in accurately detecting species, assessing biodiversity, and conducting quantitative analysis. To address these limitations, this study developed a novel method for selectively detecting iDNA from specific species in eDNA samples. The method involved the application of PMA treatment to Alexandrium spp. effectively preventing the detection of non-selective exDNA signals. Additionally, by optimizing the filter size used in the sampling process, the researchers were able to selectively collect and analyze iDNA from species of interest, particularly Alexandrium spp. Furthermore, the study successfully demonstrated the selective collection and analysis of iDNA from Alexandrium spp. cysts present in the sediment layer, further strengthening the findings. The results indicated that the combined use of PMA treatment and filter size optimization significantly enhanced the selective detection capability of iDNA. The successful selective detection of iDNA from eDNA in the sediment layer highlights the practical applicability of the developed method. This study holds promise for advancing eDNA monitoring technology by providing a selective iDNA detection method utilizing PMA. Moreover, these findings lay the foundation for effectively utilizing iDNA in environmental conservation, monitoring, and ecological research.
A milder form of molybdenum cofactor deficiency type A presenting as Leigh's syndrome-like phenotype highlighting the secondary mitochondrial dysfunction: a case report
Authors: Almudhry Montaha , Prasad Asuri N. , Rupar C. Anthony , Tay Keng Yeow , Ratko Suzanne , Jenkins Mary E. , Prasad Chitra
Published: September 2023

Background

Molybdenum cofactor deficiency (MoCD) (OMIM# 252150) is an autosomal-recessive disorder caused by mutations in four genes involved in the molybdenum cofactor (MOCO) biosynthesis pathway.

Objectives

We report a milder phenotype in a patient with MOCS1 gene mutation who presented with a Leigh-like presentation.

Case report

We present the case of a 10-year-old boy who was symptomatic at the age of 5 months with sudden onset of dyskinesia, nystagmus, and extrapyramidal signs following a febrile illness. Initial biochemical, radiological, and histopathological findings a Leigh syndrome-like phenotype; however, whole-exome sequencing detected compound heterozygous mutations in MOCS1 gene, c.1133 G>C and c.217C>T, confirming an underlying MoCD. This was biochemically supported by low uric acid level of 80 (110–282 mmol/L) and low cystine level of 0 (3–49), and a urine S-sulfocysteine at 116 (0–15) mmol/mol creatinine. The patient was administered methionine- and cystine-free formulas. The patient has remained stable, with residual intellectual, speech, and motor sequelae.

Conclusion

This presentation expands the phenotypic variability of late-onset MoCD A and highlights the role of secondary mitochondrial dysfunction in its pathogenesis.
Nontraumatic subdural hematoma in patients on hemodialysis with end-stage kidney disease: a systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Yang Liling , Li Zongping , Dai Xiaoyu , Wang Lijun , Wang Xiaoyi , Liu Hongyuan
Published: September 2023

Background

The original treatment may aggravate when hemodialysis (HD) patients have nontraumatic subdural hematoma (NSDH). End-stage kidney disease patients are at increased risk for NSDH, but its risk factors and outcomes are not sufficiently explored at present.

Methods

Electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched by using various combinations of the keywords “Hemodialysis,” “Renal Insufficiency,” “Extracorporeal Dialysis,” “Subdural Hematoma,” “Subdural Hemorrhage,” “Subdural Hematomas,” and “Subdural Hemorrhages” in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Sixteen papers were selected. Relevant patient data were extracted, aggregated, and analyzed.

Results

A total of 74 patients were analyzed, including 37 male, 26 female, and 11 with no gender data, with a mean age of 56 years (range, 16–81 years). There were 43 patients with hypertension, 36 patients with diabetes, 16 patients who used oral anticoagulants before dialysis, and 10 patients with atrial fibrillation. The diagnosis of subdural hematoma (SDH) was made by computed tomography (CT) (n = 51), carotid arteriography (n = 7), surgical exploration (n = 3), and autopsy (n = 2). Forty cases underwent surgical treatment, including craniotomy and burr hole (or twist drill) drainage. The 1 year mortality rate of NSDH was 45.9%. The mortality rate after conservative treatment (61.8%) was higher than that after surgical intervention (32.5%). The mortality rate of NSDH in dialysis patients with atrial fibrillation and in those who used oral anticoagulants before hemodialysis (HD) was 90 and 81%, respectively.

Conclusion

NSDH is rare in HD, and mortality is high if NSDH occurs in dialysis patients. Surgical intervention reduces the mortality from NSDH in patients on HD (p < 0.02). Patients with atrial fibrillation and those who were taking oral anticoagulants before dialysis have a higher NSDH mortality (p < 0.01).
The association of handgrip strength with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database prospective cohort study with propensity score matching
Authors: Xiong Lijiao , Zeng Zhaohao , Wang Shuojia , Liao Tingfeng , Wang Xiaohao , Wang Xinyu , Yang Guangyan , Li Yanchun , Li Lixing , Zhu Jing , Zhao Pengfei , Yang Shu , Kang Lin , Liang Zhen
Published: September 2023

Objective

To investigate the association between handgrip strength (HGS) with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in US adults.

Method

We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) prospective cohort study (2011–2014) with 10,470 participants. The cox regression analysis, Kaplan–Meier survival curves, fitted curves, ROC curves, and propensity score-matched analysis (PSM) with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW), SMRW (PSM with repeated weights), PA (pairwise algorithm), and OW (overlap weighting) regression analysis were performed to assess the relationship between HGS and all-cause and CVD mortality.

Results

The low HGSs (men <37.4 kg, women <24 kg), was found to be associated with higher all-cause and CVD mortality in a reverse J-shaped curve (p < 0.05). Adjusting for multiple covariates including age, BMI, race, education level, marriage status, smoking and alcohol use, and various comorbidities, the hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause mortality in the lowest HGS quintile 1 (Q1) was 3.45 (2.14–5.58) for men and 3.3 (1.88–5.79) for women. For CVD mortality, the HR was 2.99 (1.07–8.37) for men and 10.35 (2.29–46.78) for women. The area under the curve (AUC) for HGS alone as a predictor of all-cause mortality was 0.791 (0.768–0.814) for men and 0.780 (0.752–0.807) for women (p < 0.05), while the AUC for HGS and age was 0.851 (0.830–0.871) for men and 0.848 (0.826–0.869) for women (p < 0.05). For CVD mortality, the AUC for HGS alone was 0.785 (95% CI 0.738–0.833) for men and 0.821 (95% CI 0.777–0.865) for women (p < 0.05), while the AUC for HGS and age as predictors of all-cause mortality was 0.853 (0.861–0.891) for men and 0.859 (0.821–0.896) for women (p < 0.05). The HGS Q1 (men <37.4 kg and women <24 kg) was matched separately for PSM. After univariate, multivariate Cox regression models, PSM, IPTW, SMRW, PA, and OW analyses, women had 2.37–3.12 and 2.92–5.12 HRs with low HGS for all-cause and CVD mortality, while men had 2.21–2.82 and 2.33–2.85 for all-cause and CVD mortality, respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Adults with low HGS exhibited a significantly increased risk of both all-cause and CVD mortality, regardless of gender. Additionally, low HGS served as an independent risk factor and predictor for both all-cause and CVD mortality.
Establishing a machine learning model for predicting nutritional risk through facial feature recognition
Authors: Wang Jingmin , He Chengyuan , Long Zhiwen
Published: September 2023

Background

Malnutrition affects many worldwide, necessitating accurate and timely nutritional risk assessment. This study aims to develop and validate a machine learning model using facial feature recognition for predicting nutritional risk. This innovative approach seeks to offer a non-invasive, efficient method for early identification and intervention, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Methods

We gathered medical examination data and facial images from 949 patients across multiple hospitals to predict nutritional status. In this multicenter investigation, facial images underwent preprocessing via face alignment and cropping. Orbital fat pads were isolated using the U-net model, with the histogram of oriented gradient (HOG) method employed for feature extraction. Standardized HOG features were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) for dimensionality reduction. A support vector machine (SVM) classification model was utilized for NRS-2002 detection. Our approach established a non-linear mapping between facial features and NRS-2002 nutritional risk scores, providing an innovative method for evaluating patient nutritional status.

Results

In context of orbital fat pad area segmentation with U-net model, the averaged dice coefficient is 88.3%. Our experimental results show that the proposed method to predict NRS-2002 scores achieves an accuracy of 73.1%. We also grouped the samples by gender, age, and the location of the hospital where the data were collected to evaluate the classification accuracy in different subsets. The classification accuracy rate for the elderly group was 85%, while the non-elderly group exhibited a classification accuracy rate of 71.1%; Furthermore, the classification accuracy rate for males and females were 69.2 and 78.6%, respectively. Hospitals located in remote areas, such as Tibet and Yunnan, yielded a classification accuracy rate of 76.5% for collected patient samples, whereas hospitals in non-remote areas achieved a classification accuracy rate of 71.1%.

Conclusion

The attained accuracy rate of 73.1% holds significant implications for the feasibility of the method. While not impeccable, this level of accuracy highlights the potential for further improvements. The development of this algorithm has the potential to revolutionize nutritional risk assessment by providing healthcare professionals and individuals with a non-invasive, cost-effective, and easily accessible tool.
Association between dietary potassium intake and severe headache or migraine in US adults: a population-based analysis
Authors: Xu Lisi , Zhang Cong , Liu Yan , Shang Xiuli , Huang Daifa
Published: September 2023

Background

Migraine is a prevalent neurovascular headache disorder. The link between dietary potassium and blood pressure has been established. We sought to delineate the relationship between dietary potassium intake and the prevalence of migraines.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 1999–2004, comprising 10,254 participants aged ≥20 years. Participants who reported severe headaches or migraine in the self-report questionnaire were identified as migraineurs. A 24-h dietary recall methodology was used to assess dietary potassium intake. Multivariate regression analysis and restricted cubic spline (RCS) modeling were utilized to elucidate the relationship between dietary potassium and migraines.

Results

Among the 10,254 participants, 20.1% were identified with migraine or severe headaches. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for migraine occurrence in the Q2 dietary potassium intake (1771–2,476 mg/d) was 0.84 (95% CI: 0.73–0.97, p = 0.021) compared to the lowest quartile (Q1, ≤ 1771 mg/d). The relationship between dietary potassium and migraine exhibited an L-shaped pattern (non-linear, p = 0.016) with an inflection at approximately 1439.3 mg/d. In the subgroup analysis, when compared to Q1, who had the lowest dietary potassium intake, the adjusted OR for Q2 in females, those in the medium-high household income group, and with a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 were as follows: (OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.69–0.98), (OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.66–0.95), and (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.66–0.93), respectively. No significant interaction was observed across groups after adjusting for all possible covariates.

Conclusion

The relationship between dietary potassium intake and migraine prevalence among US adults appears to follow an L-shaped curve.
Development of a nomogram based on radiomics and semantic features for predicting chromosome 7 gain/chromosome 10 loss in IDH wild-type histologically low-grade gliomas
Authors: Kong Xin , Mao Yu , Xi Fengjun , Li Yan , Luo Yuqi , Ma Jun
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To predict chromosome 7 gain and chromosome 10 loss (+7/-10) in IDH wild-type (IDH-wt) histologically low-grade gliomas (LGG) by machine learning models based on MRI radiomics and semantic features.

Methods

A total of 122 patients diagnosed as IDH-wt histologically LGG were retrospectively included in this study. The patients were randomly divided into a training group and a test group in a ratio of 7:3. The radiomics features were extracted from axial T1WI, T2WI, FLAIR and CET1 sequences, respectively. The distance correlation (DC) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were used to select the radiomics signatures. Three machine learning algorithms including neural network (NN), support vector machine (SVM), and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were used to construct radiomics models. In addition, a nomogram was developed by combining the optimal radiomics signature with clinical risk factors, and the potential clinical utility of the nomogram was evaluated using decision curve analysis.

Results

The LDA+DC model was identified as the optimal classifier among the six radiomics models. Necrosis was determined as a risk factor for +7/-10 in IDH-wt histologically LGG. The nomogram achieved the best performance, with an AUC of 0.854 and an accuracy of 0.778 in the independent test group. The decision curve of the nomogram confirmed its clinical usefulness in a wide range of thresholds.

Conclusion

The nomogram combining radiomics and semantic features can predict the +7/-10 status effectively, which may contribute to the risk stratification and individualized treatment planning of patients with IDH-wt histologically LGG.
Low radiotherapy dose is suitable for brain metastases in SCLC compared with high dose
Authors: Xu Liming , Zhang Kunning , Han Haonan , Sun Han , Yuan Yajing , Wang Jun , Zhao Lujun , Wang Ping
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study was designed to evaluate the suitable radiotherapy dose in SCLC patients with BM.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed among 121 patients on the prognosis of BM of SCLC who were admitted to our hospital from 2013 to 2023. They all received first line chemotherapy. 80 patients of them received TRT after chemotherapy. The Chi square method was used to compare the categorical data. Univariate survival analysis was estimated by Kaplan Meier method and the logrank was used to compare survival curves between groups. A multivariate prognostic analysis was made by the Cox proportional hazard model. The iOS and iLC of two groups of low dose and high dose were analyzed after propensity score matching (PSM).

Results

In all the patients, the median follow-up time was 18.6 months (range 6.30~85.7), the 2-year iOS and iLC rates were 15.4% and 70.3%, respectively, and cerebral necrosis occurred in 2 patients. In univariate analysis related to iOS, extracranial disease control (p=0.023), higher DS-GPA (≥2) (p=0.016), immunotherapy (p=0.049), low-dose(p=0.030), and WBRT+SIB (p=0.009) were significantly associated with an increase in survival rate. After PSM, the 2-year iOS of low dose (n=49) was significantly higher than that of high dose (n=49) (P=0.025), while the 2-year iLC was not significantly improved (P=0.267). In DS-GPA < 2 subgroup, the iOS of low dose group was significantly higher than that of high dose group (p=0.019). In the DS-GPA ≥ 2 subgroup, the 2-year iLC of the low dose group was significantly inferior than that of the high dose group (p=0.044).

Conclusions

The iLC was improved along with increasing radiotherapy dose, but high dose had inferior iOS compared to low dose, while there were not significantly improving iLC when radiotherapy BED >56Gy. But in patients with DS-GPA≥2 subgroup, high dose brought better iLC benefits.
Circulating ghrelin levels in patients with gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yuxuan , Zhang Caishun , Yu Jiaqing , Zhang Qing , Wang Yukai , Xia Yunqiu , Dong Jing
Published: September 2023

Background

Ghrelin plays a critical role in regulating energy metabolism and homeostasis. The association between circulating ghrelin levels and gastric cancer has not been systematically analyzed.

Objective

This work explored the association between circulating ghrelin levels and gastric cancer.

Methods

The literature search for relevant articles published until November 2022 was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science with the keywords “ghrelin” and “gastric cancer”. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals were used to measure the effectiveness. We assessed pooled data by use of a random-effects model.

Results

Of 5,302 identified studies, nine were included (N=3,196 participants). Circulating ghrelin levels were lower in gastric cancer patients (SMD=-0.255, 95%CI: -0.528 to 0.017, P < 0.00001), but with high heterogeneity (I2 = 88.8%).

Conclusion

The circulating ghrelin levels in patients with gastric cancer were lower than in controls. However, there was heterogeneity among results; therefore, studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.
Incidence and types of congenital heart disease at a referral hospital in Jordan: retrospective study from a tertiary center
Authors: Hasan Abeer A. , Abu Lehyah Naser Aldain A. , Al Tarawneh Moath K. , Abbad Mahmoud Y. , Fraijat Areen G. , Al-Jammal Razan A. , Moamar Dania M. , Shersheer Qasem A. , Guthrie Scott O. , Starnes Joseph R.
Published: September 2023

Background

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect and accounts for significant global morbidity and mortality. Relatively little is known about the epidemiology of CHD in Jordan or the manner in which CHD is identified.

Methods

A retrospective medical record review was conducted for all neonates who had an abnormal echocardiogram performed at a tertiary referral hospital. All included neonates had echocardiography performed by the same pediatric cardiologist at the discretion of the treatment team. Descriptive statistics were used to describe CHD incidence, types of CHD identified, and mechanism of identification.

Results

The incidence of congenital heart disease was 17.8 per 1,000 live births. This rose to 24.6 per 1,000 if patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants was included. The most common identified abnormalities were PDA, atrial septal defects, persistent pulmonary hypertension, septal hypertrophy, and ventricular septal defects. Most children were evaluated either for a murmur heard on exam or as a part of screening due to other comorbidities or risk factors. Less than 1% of children had a prenatal diagnosis. There was a higher rate of persistent pulmonary hypertension during the COVID-19 pandemic than before (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

There is a high incidence of CHD in Jordan. Increased prenatal and perinatal screening for CHD may allow for earlier detection.
Overview of research progress and application of experimental models of colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Li , Yan Qiuying , Chen Zihan , Wei Xiaoman , Li Lin , Tang Dongxin , Tan Jiani , Xu Changliang , Yu Chengtao , Lai Yueyang , Fan Minmin , Tao Lihuiping , Shen Weixing , Li Liu , Wu Mianhua , Cheng Haibo , Sun Dongdong
Published: September 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy in terms of global tumor incidence, and the rates of morbidity and mortality due to CRC are rising. Experimental models of CRC play a vital role in CRC research. Clinical studies aimed at investigating the evolution and mechanism underlying the formation of CRC are based on cellular and animal models with broad applications. The present review classifies the different experimental models used in CRC research, and describes the characteristics and limitations of these models by comparing the research models with the clinical symptoms. The review also discusses the future prospects of developing new experimental models of CRC.
Changes in echo intensity of the gastrocnemius muscle with passive ankle dorsiflexion: can echo intensity be used to assess muscle elongation?
Authors: Nakao Sayaka , Ikezoe Tome , Yagi Masahide , Umehara Jun , Nojiri Shusuke , Ichihashi Noriaki
Published: September 2023

Introduction: While shear modulus has been used as an index of muscle elongation, high costs prevent its general adoption. A more general indicator that can quantify muscle elongation non-invasively is needed to develop effective methods for stretching each muscle. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the echo intensity of the muscle changes with muscle elongation compared with the shear modulus.

Methods: Sixteen healthy males (24.1 ± 2.8 years) participated in the study. Shear modulus and echo intensity of the medial gastrocnemius were assessed at 20° and 10° of ankle plantar-flexion, and 0°, 10°, and 20° of ankle dorsiflexion (presented as −20°, −10°, and 0°, +10°, +20°, respectively). Shear modulus was measured using ultrasound shear wave elastography. The echo intensity was quantified using the average grayscale value of a given region of interest (RoI) in longitudinal and transverse B-mode images. Grayscale analysis was performed using two RoIs: one which included as much of the muscle as possible (maximum RoI), and a rectangular one whose size and depth was identical for all images (rectangular RoI). Pearson’s correlation coefficients between either the shear modulus or echo intensity and the ankle angle and between the echo intensity and shear modulus were calculated separately for each participant.

Results: Average Pearson’s correlation coefficient between shear modulus and ankle angle of the participants was 0.904. The average Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the echo intensity and ankle angle were estimated to be 0.797 and 0.222 for the maximum RoI and 0.698 and 0.323 for the rectangular RoI in the longitudinal and transverse images, respectively. The average Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the echo intensity and shear modulus were 0.684 and 0.514 for the maximum RoI, and 0.611 and 0.409 for rectangular RoI in the longitudinal and transverse images, respectively.

Discussion: The results indicate that the echo intensity in the longitudinal image of the gastrocnemius, especially when assessed using the maximum RoI, increased with muscle elongation by passive ankle dorsiflexion. Therefore, assessment of the echo intensity using the maximum RoI in the longitudinal image might be useful for quantifying the muscle elongation.
Cardio-respiratory interactions in acute asthma
Authors: Caplan Morgan , Hamzaoui Olfa
Published: September 2023

Asthma encompasses of respiratory symptoms that occur intermittently and with varying intensity accompanied by reversible expiratory airflow limitation. In acute exacerbations, it can be life-threatening due to its impact on ventilatory mechanics. Moreover, asthma has significant effects on the cardiovascular system, primarily through heart-lung interaction-based mechanisms. Dynamic hyperinflation and increased work of breathing caused by a sharp drop in pleural pressure, can affect cardiac function and cardiac output through different mechanisms. These mechanisms include an abrupt increase in venous return, elevated right ventricular afterload and interdependence between the left and right ventricle. Additionally, Pulsus paradoxus, which reflects the maximum consequences of this heart lung interaction when intrathoracic pressure swings are exaggerated, may serve as a convenient bedside tool to assess the severity of acute asthma acute exacerbation and its response to therapy.
Deep learning for ECG Arrhythmia detection and classification: an overview of progress for period 2017–2023
Authors: Ansari Yaqoob , Mourad Omar , Qaraqe Khalid , Serpedin Erchin
Published: September 2023

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality globally. Electrocardiography (ECG) still represents the benchmark approach for identifying cardiac irregularities. Automatic detection of abnormalities from the ECG can aid in the early detection, diagnosis, and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Deep Learning (DL) architectures have been successfully employed for arrhythmia detection and classification and offered superior performance to traditional shallow Machine Learning (ML) approaches. This survey categorizes and compares the DL architectures used in ECG arrhythmia detection from 2017–2023 that have exhibited superior performance. Different DL models such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Multilayer Perceptrons (MLPs), Transformers, and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) are reviewed, and a summary of their effectiveness is provided. This survey provides a comprehensive roadmap to expedite the acclimation process for emerging researchers willing to develop efficient algorithms for detecting ECG anomalies using DL models. Our tailored guidelines bridge the knowledge gap allowing newcomers to align smoothly with the prevailing research trends in ECG arrhythmia detection. We shed light on potential areas for future research and refinement in model development and optimization, intending to stimulate advancement in ECG arrhythmia detection and classification.
Effects of artificial canopy shading on vegetative growth and ripening processes of cv. Nero d’Avola (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Miccichè Daniele , de Rosas Maria Inès , Ferro Massimo Vincenzo , Di Lorenzo Rosario , Puccio Stefano , Pisciotta Antonino
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The biology of the grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is clearly influenced by the climatic conditions of the growing environment, where temperature and light play a major role in modifying plant physiology. In the scenario of climatic changes, radiative excess, correlated to the increase in temperature, can concretely subject the photosynthetic apparatus to a condition of light saturation and cause a drastic reduction in photochemical efficiency, giving rise to chronic photoinhibition phenomena. Undoubtedly, the ripening behavior also undergo evident alterations; the problem of sugar ripening, which is often strongly accelerated, is induced not only by high temperatures but also by the excess concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2), which results in a higher ripening. In addition, high berry temperatures favor a reduction in the concentration of organic acids. The reported trends indicate that the need for urgent action is closely linked to the future environmental impacts that these changes could have on the entire wine sector. In recent years, shade treatments have been applied to the vine canopy to overcome this issue.

Methods

The objective of this study was to determine how artificial canopy shading affects the vines vegetative growth and the ripening processes of Vitis vinifera cv. Nero d’Avola during the 2019-2020 vegetative seasons. Three treatments were established: shading treatment with a green net (shade factor 27%), shading treatment with a white net (shade factor 32%), and untreated vines, thus naturally exposed to light radiation.

Results and discussion

Artificial shading, applied at full fruit set, interfered with the microclimate of the vines, causing partial effects on the grape ripening processes. At harvest, significant differences were found between the treatments in terms of sugars, also shading treatments increased must acidity and decrease pH. Results obtained on vegetative parameters, suggest that the shading treatment delays leaf fall, with potentially positive effects on the starch accumulation on perennial reserve organs to be exploited at the following season’s sprouting. Shading significantly reduced berry size, with obvious consequences on bunch weight and yield per vine. In 2020, shaded plants showed a delay in all the phenological phases. The total anthocyanins content was not changed by the shading treatment. The results obtained confirm the importance of net coverage on the microclimate of the vines, vegetative-productive activity, and grapes quality. From this point of view, the net covering technique can be a tool for controlling grapes ripening dynamics in the context of climate change.
Phosphorus partitioning contribute to phosphorus use efficiency during grain filling in Zea mays
Authors: Sun Yan , Han Yang , Xu Zikai , Zhang Jinting , Shen Jianbo , Cheng Lingyun
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Lower phosphorus (P) availability limits crop productivity in agroecosystems. The remobilization of P from the source to the sink organs plays an important role in enhancing the P-utilization efficiency of crops. During the grain filling stage, phosphorus flow to the developing grains, the primary sink, determines crop yield. However, the specific contributions of different organs to grain P throughout the post-silking period in maize remain unclear.

Methods

In our study, three maize inbred lines (CIMBL89, Ji846, and CML118) with contrasting P statuses were selected and grown in a field with high P (HP, 150 kg ha–1 P2O5) and low P (LP, 0 kg ha–1 P2O5) conditions.

Results

The grain yield of CIMBL89 was 69% and 169% greater under HP supply, and 83% and 309% greater than those of Ji846 and CML118 under LP supply, respectively. The ear length, ear diameter, and kernel row number of CML118 were lower than those of CIMBL89 and Ji846 under HP conditions. Most of the P (87%) in the grains of CIMBL89 came from P uptake at the LP supply, while almost all P (95%) came from P remobilization in various organs at the HP supply after silking. In contrast, 91% of the P found in the grain of CML118 came from P remobilization under LP supply, while 76% came from P uptake under HP supply after silking.

Discussion

In conclusion, our findings suggest that CIMBL89, with greater P acquisition efficiency, contributes to grain formation and production during the post-silking period under LP conditions. Additionally, CIMBL89 can fully remobilize P and avoid the extravagant absorption of P in P-sufficient soil, which sets it apart from Ji846 and CML118.
Investigating the impact of pedoclimatic conditions on the oenological performance of two red cultivars grown throughout southern Italy
Authors: Iorizzo Massimo , Sicilia Angelo , Nicolosi Elisabetta , Forino Martino , Picariello Luigi , Lo Piero Angela Roberta , Vitale Andrea , Monaco Eugenia , Ferlito Filippo , Succi Mariantonietta , Tremonte Patrizio , Gambuti Angelita , Villano Clizia , Bonfante Antonello , Aversano Riccardo , Coppola Raffaele
Published: September 2023

The cultivated grapevine, Vitis vinifera subsp. vinifera, possesses a rich biodiversity with numerous varieties. Each variety adapts differently to varying pedoclimatic conditions, which greatly influence the terroir expression of wine regions. These conditions impact vine growth, physiology, and berry composition, ultimately shaping the unique characteristics and typicity of the wines produced. Nowadays, the potential of the different adaptation capacities of grape varieties has not yet been thoroughly investigated. We addressed this issue by studying two grape varieties, Aglianico and Cabernet Sauvignon, in two different pedoclimatic conditions of Southern Italy. We evaluated and compared the effect of different pedoclimatic conditions on plant physiology, the microbial quality of grapes using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, the expression trends of key genes in ripe berries and the concentration of phenolic compounds in grapes and wines by HPLC-MS, HPLC-DAD, NMR and spectrophotometric analyses. Metabolomic and microbiome data were integrated with quantitative gene expression analyses to examine varietal differences and plasticity of genes involved in important oenological pathways. The data collected showed that the phenotypic response of studied grapes in terms of vigor, production, and fruit quality is strongly influenced by the pedoclimatic conditions and, in particular, by soil physical properties. Furthermore, Aglianico grape variety was more influenced than the Cabernet Sauvignon by environmental conditions. In conclusion, the obtained findings not only reinforce the terroir concept and our comprehension of grape’s ability to adapt to climate variations but can also have implications for the future usage of grape genetic resources.
Elucidating the impact of biochar with different carbon/nitrogen ratios on soil biochemical properties and rhizosphere bacterial communities of flue-cured tobacco plants
Authors: Yang Yingfen , Ye Chenghu , Zhang Wei , Zhu Xiaohong , Li Haohao , Yang Dehai , Ahmed Waqar , Zhao Zhengxiong
Published: September 2023

Background and aims

In agriculture, biochar (BC) and nitrogen (N) fertilizers are commonly used for improving soil fertility and crop productivity. However, it remains unclear how different levels of BC and N fertilizer affect soil fertility and crop productivity.

Methods

This study elucidates the impact of different application rates of BC (0, 600, and 1200 kg/ha) and N fertilizer (105 and 126 kg/ha) on biomass accumulation, soil microbial biomass of carbon (SMC) and nitrogen (SMN), and soil biochemical properties, including soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), soil nitrate nitrogen (NO3−−N), ammonium nitrogen (NH4+−N), urease (UE), acid phosphatase (ACP), catalase (CAT), and sucrase (SC) of tobacco plants. In addition, a high throughput amplicon sequencing technique was adopted to investigate the effect of different application rates of BC/N on rhizosphere bacterial communities of tobacco plants.

Results

The results confirm that high dosages of BC and N fertilizer (B1200N126) significantly enhance dry matter accumulation by 31.56% and 23.97% compared with control B0N105 and B0N126 under field conditions and 23.94% and 24.52% under pot experiment, respectively. The soil biochemical properties, SMC, and SMN significantly improved under the high application rate of BC and N fertilizer (B1200N126), while it negatively influenced the soil carbon/nitrogen ratio. Analysis of rhizosphere bacteriome through amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA revealed that the structure, diversity, and composition of rhizosphere bacterial communities dramatically changed under different BC/N ratios. Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Acidobacteria were highly abundant bacterial phyla in the rhizosphere of tobacco plants under different treatments. Co-occurrence network analysis displayed fewer negative correlations among rhizosphere bacterial communities under high dosages of biochar and nitrogen (B1200N126) than other treatments, which showed less competition for resources among microbes. In addition, a redundancy analysis further proved a significant positive correlation among SMC, SMN, soil biochemical properties, and high dosage of biochar and nitrogen (B1200N126).

Conclusions

Thus, we conclude that a high dosage of BC (1200 kg/ha) under a high application rate of N fertilizer (126 kg/ha) enhances the biomass accumulation of tobacco plants by improving the soil biochemical properties and activities of rhizosphere bacterial communities.
Exploring the effects of physical exercise on inferiority feeling in children and adolescents with disabilities: a test of chain mediated effects of self-depletion and self-efficacy
Authors: Yang Tongnian , Xiao Hui , Fan Xiaoyan , Zeng Wenping
Published: September 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of physical exercise on inferiority feeling of children and adolescents with disabilities and its mechanism of action, as well as the mediating role of self depletion and self-efficacy.

Methods

The following scales were administered to 546 children and adolescents with disabilities (mean age 15.6 years): The Feelings of Inadequacy Scale, (FIS), the Self-Regulation Fatigue Scale (S-RFS), the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and the Physical Exercise Rating Scale.

Results

(1) Physical exercise can directly and negatively predict inferiority feeling, self-depletion, and can directly and positively predict self-efficacy; self-depletion can directly and negatively predict self-efficacy. Similarly, self-depletion positively predicts inferiority feeling; physical exercise and self-efficacy can also directly and negatively predict inferiority feeling. (2) The indirect effect of the path with self-depletion as the mediating variable was – 0.05, the indirect effect of the path with self-efficacy as the mediating variable was – 0.09, and the indirect effect of the path with self-depletion and self-efficacy as the mediating variables was – 0.04. (3) The sum of all indirect effects was – 0.18, and the three indirect effects accounted for 15.6%, 28.1%, and 12.5% of the total effect, with mediating effect was 56.2%.

Conclusion

Physical exercise can indirectly predict inferiority feeling in children and adolescents with disabilities through the independent mediation of self-depletion and self-efficacy, as well as through the chain mediation of both. This study supports that moderate physical exercise has a positive effect on the mental health of children and adolescents with disabilities, and that reducing self-depletion and improving self-efficacy are important ways to prevent inferiority feeling among children and adolescents with disabilities. It reveals the relationship between physical exercise and inferiority feeling and its mechanism of action, and further improves the research on the effect of physical exercise on inferiority feeling of children and adolescents with disabilities.
Prevalence and factors influencing cognitive impairment among the older adult stroke survivors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Yanjin , Wang Qi , Zou Ping , He Guoping , Zeng Ying , Yang Jing
Published: September 2023

Background

Cognitive impairment as a complication in post-stroke patients has high prevalence throughout the world. However, few studies have focused on the older adult stroke survivors and explored their prevalence and factors of post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). The study aims to evaluate the cognitive status of stroke patients in Hunan Province, China and to determine the potential risk factors associated with PSCI in order to identify the older adult population in advance and promote healthy aging.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out from August to December, 2021. A total of 520 stroke survivors from 6 tertiary hospitals were randomly selected. The information was collected using the general questionnaire, the Barthel Index Rating Scale and the Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE). Analysis was based on descriptive statistics, chi-square test and the significant variables were included in multivariate logistic regression. The reporting of this cross-sectional study followed the STROBE checklist.

Results

A total of 195 older adults (40.37%) were screened for cognitive impairment based on the results of the MMSE score. Patients in the PSCI group had a higher proportion of individuals aged 70 or older (35.90% vs. 24.65%, p<0.001). The potential risk factors for post-stroke cognitive impairment in older adults were being aged between 70 and 79 years old (OR = 3.973, 95% CI, 2.346–6.729, p<0.001), being aged 80 years or older (OR = 3.590, 95% CI, 1.373–9.387, p = 0.009), having a low level of education (OR = 9.183, 95% CI, 5.341–15.789, p<0.001), having hypertension (OR = 1.756, 95% CI, 1.121–2.753, p = 0.014), and having a dominant hemisphere lesion (OR = 1.880, 95% CI, 1.193–2.962, p<0.001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of PSCI was high among Chinese older adults, particularly those aged 80 years or older. The factors identified in our study could assist in the early identification of older adults at risk, develop personalized management plans, and promote healthy aging.
Emerging theory of sensitization in post-stroke muscle spasticity
Authors: Suputtitada Areerat
Published: September 2023

Spasticity, characterized by a velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone and exaggerated reflexes, is a common complication in individuals with upper motor neuron syndrome, such as stroke survivors. Sensitization, the heightened responsiveness of the nervous system to sensory stimuli, has emerged as a potential cause of spasticity. This perspective article explores three emerging treatments targeting sensitization. Recent studies have investigated novel treatment modalities for spasticity, including Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS), and needling. ESWT has shown promising results in reducing spasticity in both the upper and lower extremities, potentially through mechanisms such as nitric oxide production, rheological property changes, and neuromuscular transmission dysfunction. rPMS offers a non-invasive approach that may reduce spasticity by increasing sensory input, enhancing cortical activation, and exerting tissue-softening effects. Needling has also demonstrated positive effects on spasticity reduction. The high heterogeneity observed indicates the need for more rigorous research to confirm these findings. Recently, mechanical needling and sterile water injection invented by the author is also promising for reducing spasticity through removing sensitization. In conclusion, the emerging treatment options discussed in this perspective article provide promising avenues for addressing sensitization in spasticity and improving motor function. However, further research is needed to validate their findings, optimize treatment protocols, and investigate their long-term effects on motor recovery and overall quality of life in individuals with spasticity.
Reduced order modeling and model order reduction for continuum manipulators: an overview
Authors: Sadati S.M.H. , Naghibi S. Elnaz , da Cruz Lyndon , Bergeles Christos
Published: September 2023

Soft robot’s natural dynamics calls for the development of tailored modeling techniques for control. However, the high-dimensional configuration space of the geometrically exact modeling approaches for soft robots, i.e., Cosserat rod and Finite Element Methods (FEM), has been identified as a key obstacle in controller design. To address this challenge, Reduced Order Modeling (ROM), i.e., the approximation of the full-order models, and Model Order Reduction (MOR), i.e., reducing the state space dimension of a high fidelity FEM-based model, are enjoying extensive research. Although both techniques serve a similar purpose and their terms have been used interchangeably in the literature, they are different in their assumptions and implementation. This review paper provides the first in-depth survey of ROM and MOR techniques in the continuum and soft robotics landscape to aid Soft Robotics researchers in selecting computationally efficient models for their specific tasks.