bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical application of HALP score to predict early neurological deterioration in elderly acute cerebral infarction patients
Authors: LI Ling-ling , XIE Yu , LIANG Xue , GUO Ai-bin , HUANG Ming-min , LIN Yong-juan
Published: March 2023

Background: Early neurological deterioration (END) may be associated with poor prognosis in elderly AIS patients. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between a composite biomarker HALP score and END, to identify patients at risk for poor neurological function.
METHODS: This study retrospectively examined elderly patients with AIS admitted to Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January 2016 to December 2021. NIHSS were collected within 7 days of admission. END was defined as a 2 point increase in NIHSS within 7 days.. the formula for HALP score was lymphocytes (/L) ×hemoglobin (g/L) ×albumin (g/L) / platelets (/L). Multivariate logistic regression was used to construct a prediction model for HALP score, ROC curves and calibration graphs were computed.
Results: A total of 431 elderly AIS patients were included, with END accounting for 34.34%. Univariate analysis showed that age, baseline NIHSS score, white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, hemoglobin, triglycerides, HALP score, CRP, Hcy, Lp-PLA2, infectious events and death events differed between the two groups (P < 0.05). Multifactorial logistic regression analysis revealed that HALP score (OR 0.965, 95% CI 0.943 to 0.988, P=0.003) and baseline NIHSS score (OR 1.169, 95% CI 1.119 to 1.220, P<0.001) were good at predicting END. The area under the ROC curve for HALP score <27.69 and NIHSS score >5.5 was 0.727 (95CI: 0.676-0.778); 0.868 (95CI: 0.834-0.903), respectively, and the combined AUC was 0.883 (95%CI: 0.850-0.916). Additionally, HALP score was significantly negatively correlated with baseline NIHSS (r=-0.411, P<0.001) and admission day 7 NIHSS (r=-0.348, P<0.001), respectively. More often the lower HALP score, the higher END percentage and the worse 90-day functional outcomes.
Conclusion: A low HALP score at admission is associated with the occurrence of END within one week in elderly AIS patients, which may help clinicians to identify high-risk END patients early.
The performance of VCS parameters in distinguishing latent tuberculosis and active tuberculosis by using machine learning algorithm
Authors: Chen Lijiao , Yuan Lingke , Sun Tingting , Liu Ruiqing , Huang Qing , Deng Shaoli
Published: March 2023

Background
Tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and is the ninth leading cause of death worldwide. It is still difficult to distinguish active TB from latent TB ,so it is very important for individualized management and treatment to distinguish whether patients are active or latent tuberculosis infection.
Methods
A total of 220 subjects, including active TB patients (ATB, n = 97) and latent TB patients (LTB, n = 113), were recruited in this study .46 features about blood routine indicators and the VCS parameters (volume, conductivity, light scatter) of neutrophils(NE), monocytes(MO), and lymphocytes(LY) were collected and was constructed classification model by four machine learning algorithms(logistic regression(LR), random forest(RF), support vector machine(SVM) and k-nearest neighbor(KNN)). And the area under the precision-recall curve (AUPRC) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) to estimate of the model’s predictive performance for dentifying active and latent tuberculosis infection.
Results
After verification ,among the four classifications, LR and RF had the best performance (AUROC = 1, AUPRC = 1), followed by SVM (AUROC = 0.967, AUPRC = 0.971), KNN (AUROC = 0.943, AUPRC = 0.959) in the training set. And LR had the best performance (AUROC = 0.977, AUPRC = 0.957), followed by SVM (AUROC = 0.962, AUPRC = 0.949), RF (AUROC = 0.903, AUPRC = 0.922) ,KNN(AUROC = 0.883, AUPRC = 0.901)In the testing set.
Conclusions
The machine learning algorithm classifier based on leukocyte VCS parameters is of great value in identifying active and latent tuberculosis infection.
Effects of customized insoles with medial wedges on lower extremity kinematics and ultrasonographic findings in plantar fasciitis persons
Authors: Thong-On Suthasinee , Harutaichun Pavinee
Published: March 2023

Background: The customized insole is widely recommended as an effective intervention for pain reduction and foot function improvement. However, it is unclear whether the symptom improvement is due to anatomical and biomechanical changes after receiving the insole. The objectives of this study were to compare customized insoles with and without medial wedges on lower extremity kinematics during gait and to determine the short-term effects of the insole on pain intensity, foot function, and ultrasonographic findings in individuals with plantar fasciitis.
Methods: A within-subject, randomized, crossover design within motion analysis research laboratory was conducted among 35 persons with plantar fasciitis. Main outcome measures included joint motions of the lower extremity and multi-segment foot, pain intensity, foot function, and ultrasonographic findings.
Results: The customized insole with medial wedges produced less knee motion in the transverse plane and hallux motion in all planes during the propulsive phase than that without medial wedges (all p < 0.05). After the 3-month follow-up, the insole decreased pain intensity and increased foot function. There was a significant reduction in the number of participants in the apparent group from the ultrasonographic findings, which included those with plantar fascia thickness greater than 3.8 mm and hypo-echogenicity of the plantar fascia.
Conclusions: Customized insoles with medial wedges seem superior to those without medial wedges to reduce pathological biomechanics. Positive outcomes from this study supported the use of customized insoles with medial wedges as an effective conservative treatment in patients with plantar fasciitis.
Trial registration: TCTR20210928006 (28/09/2021).
Provincial Policies Affecting Resident Quality of Life in Canadian Residential Long-term Care
Authors: Irwin Pamela , Taylor Deanne , Keefe Janice M.
Published: March 2023

Background: The precautions and restrictions imposed by the recent Covid-19 pandemic drew attention to the criticality of quality of care in long-term care facilities internationally, and in Canada. They also underscored the importance of residents’ quality of life. In deference to the risk mitigation measures in Canadian long-term care settings during Covid-19, some person-centered, quality of life policies were paused, unused, or under-utilized. This study aimed to interrogate these existing but latent policies to capture their potentiality in terms of positively influencing the quality of life of residents in long-term care in Canada.
Methods: The study analysed policies related to quality of life of long-term care residents in four Canadian provinces. It consisted of three policy orientations: situational (environmental conditions), structural (operational content), and temporal (developmental trajectories). 84 long term care policies were reviewed, relating to different policy jurisdictions, policy types, and quality of life domains.
Results: Overall, the intersection of jurisdiction, policy types, and quality of life domains confirms that some policies, particularly safety, security and order, may be prioritized in different types of policy documents, and over other quality of life domains. Alternatively, the presence of a resident focused quality of life focus in many polices affirms the cultural shift towards greater person-centeredness. These findings are both explicit and implicit, and mediated through the expression of individual policy excerpts.
Conclusion: The analysis provides substantive evidence of three key policy levers: situations–providing specific examples of resident focused quality of life policy overshadowing in each jurisdiction; structures–identifying which types of policy and quality of life expressions are more vulnerable to dominance by others; and trajectories–confirming the cultural shift towards more person-centeredness in Canadian long-term care related policies over time. It also demonstrates and contextualizes examples of policy slippage, differential policy weights, and cultural shifts across existing policies. When applied within a resident focused, quality of life lens, these policies can be leveraged to improve extant resource utilization.
Consequently, the study provides a timely, positive, forward-facing roadmap upon which to enhance and build policies that capitalize and enable person-centeredness in the provision of long-term care in Canada.
The causal effects of leisure screen time on irritable bowel syndrome risk: result from a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lu Liesheng , Liu Changqin , Liu Kunpeng , Shi Chenzhang , Liu Zhongchen , Jiang Xun , Wang Feng
Published: March 2023

Associations between leisure sedentary behavior (especially leisure screen time, LST) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been reported, but causality is unclear. Here, the two-sample Mendelian randomization was performed to investigate the causal association between LST and IBS. Two recently published genome-wide association studies (GWASs) including a total of 1,190,502 people from Europe were used as our data source. Inverse variance weighting (OR = 1.120, 95% CI 1.029–1.219) and weighted median (OR = 1.112, 95% CI 1.000–1.236) analyses revealed an association between the genetically predicted risk of IBS and LST. There was no evidence of pleiotropy in the sensitive analysis (MR-Egger, p = 0.139). After removing potentially confounding single nucleotide polymorphisms, similar results were found using inverse variance weighting (OR = 1.131, 95% CI 1.025–1.248) and weighted median (OR = 1.151, 95% CI 1.020–1.299), as well as in the validation analyses using inverse variance weighting (OR = 1.287, 95% CI 0.996–1.662). This study provided support for a possible causal relationship between leisure screen time and IBS. This information can be used to gain insight into the prevention and treatment of disease.
Development of an evidence-based model for predicting patient, provider, and appointment factors that influence no-shows in a rural healthcare system
Authors: Shour Abdul R. , Jones Garrett L. , Anguzu Ronald , Doi Suhail A. , Onitilo Adedayo A
Published: March 2023

Background: No-show appointments pose a significant challenge for healthcare providers, particularly in rural areas. While previous research has focused on devising measures to mitigate the effects of no-shows, the majority of research has recommended situation-specific solutions. The current literature has failed to provide generally applicable principles for designing appointment systems, particularly for rural communities. Our study fills this gap by developing a model to predict patient no-shows.
Methods: Retrospective data (2021) were obtained from the Marshfield Clinic Health System scheduling system, which included 1,260,083 (N) total appointments from 263,464 patients, as well as their demographic, appointment, and insurance information. We used descriptive statistics to associate variables with show or no-show status, logistic regression, and random forests were investigated, and
XGBoost (eXtreme Gradient Boosting) was chosen to develop the final model, determine cut-offs, and evaluate performance. We also used the model to predict future no-shows for appointments from 2022 and onwards.
Results: The no-show rate was 6.0% in both the train and test datasets. The train and test datasets both yielded 5.98. Appointments scheduled further in advance (>60 days of lead time) had a higher (7.7%) no-show rate. Appointments for patients aged 21-30 had the highest no-show rate (11.8%), and those for patients over 60 years of age had the lowest (2.9%). The model predictions yielded an AUC of 0.84 for the train set and 0.83 for the test set. With the cut-off set to 0.4, the sensitivitywas 0.71 and the positive predictive value was 0.18. Model results were used to recommend 1 overbook for every 6 at-risk appointments per provider per day.
Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of developing a predictive model based on administrative data from a predominantly rural healthcare system. Our new model distinguished between show and no-show appointments with high performance, and 1 overbook was advised for every 6 at-risk appointments. This data-driven approach to mitigating the impact of no-shows increases treatment availability in rural areas by overbooking appointment slots on days with an elevated risk of no-shows.
Computed tomography in the assessment of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage for functional outcome and delayed cerebral ischemia: a retrospective cohort study.
Authors: David Couret , Boussen Salah , Cardoso Dan , Alonzo Audrey , Madec Sylvain , Reyre Anthony , Brunel Hervé , Girard Nadine , Graillon Thomas , Dufour Henry , Bruder Nicolas , Boucekine Mohamed , Meilhac Olivier , Simeone Pierre , Velly Lionel
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a life-threatening event with major complications such as delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) or acute hydrocephalus and poor neurological outcome. DCI occurs most frequently 7 days after aSAH and can last for a prolonged period. The ability to predict these complications would allow the neuro-intensivist to identify patients at risk and select the most appropriate unit for hospitalization. To determine the most predictive radiological scales in grading subarachnoid or ventricular hemorrhage or both for functional outcome at 3 months in a large aSAH population, we conducted a single centre retrospective study in a neurocritical care unit.

METHODS

A 3-year single-centre retrospective cohort study of 230 patients hospitalized for aSAH was analysed. Initial computed tomography (CT) scans in patients hospitalized for aSAH were blindly assessed using eight grading systems: the Fisher grade, modified Fisher grade, Barrow Neurological Institute scale, Hijdra scale, Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH) score, Graeb score, and LeRoux score. We evaluated and compared these radiological scales for the early prediction of DCI, acute hydrocephalus, and poor neurological outcome at 3 months.

RESULTS

Of 200 patients with aSAH who survived to day 7 and were included for DCI analysis, 39% cases were complicated with DCI. The Hijdra scale was the best predictor for DCI, with a receiver operating characteristic area under the curve (ROCAUC) of 0.80 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74–0.85) compared to other scales (Fisher grade 0.52 (95% CI, 0.47–0.59) modified Fisher grade: 0.67 (95% CI, 0.60–0.73); Claassen Scale: 0.66 (95% CI, 0.59–0.72) and BNI Scale: 0.63 (95% CI, 0.56–0.70)). The IVH score was the most effective grading system for predicting acute hydrocephalus, with a ROCAUC of 0.85 (95% CI, 0.79–0.89). In multivariate analysis, the Hijdra scale was the best predictor of the occurrence of DCI (hazard ratio, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.10–1.25).

CONCLUSIONS

Although these results have yet to be prospectively confirmed, our findings suggest that the Hijdra scale may be a good predictor of DCI and could be useful in daily clinical practice.
Enyne acetogenins from Porcelia macrocarpa fruit peels displayed anti-Trypanosoma cruzi activity in vitro and cause a reduction in the intracellular calcium level in the parasites
Authors: Thevenard Fernanda , Brito Ivanildo , Costa-Silva Thais , Tempone Andre , Lago Joao Henrique
Published: March 2023

Natural products are a promising source of new compounds with a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, including antiprotozoal activities. Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is one of several neglected tropical diseases with reduced options for treatment, which presents limitations such as toxicity and ineffectiveness in the chronic stage of the disease. Aiming to investigate the Brazilian flora for the discovery of new anti-T. cruzi compounds, the MeOH extract from Porcelia macrocarpa R.E. Fries (Annonaceae) fruit peels displayed potent activity against trypomastigotes and intracellular amastigotes and was subjected to bioactivity-guided fractionation. Using different chromatographic steps, it was obtained a fraction composed of a mixture of four new chemically related acetogenins which were characterized as (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-octadeca-13’,17’-dien-11’-inil)butanolide (1), (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-eicosa-13’,19’-dien-11’-inil)butanolide (2), (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-octadec-13’-en-11’-inil)butanolide (3), and (2S*,3R*,4R*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-(n-eicosa-13’-en-11’-inil)butanolide (4) by analysis of NMR and UHPLC/ESI-HRMS data. The fraction composed of the mixture of compounds 1–4, displayed an EC50 of 4.9 and 2.5 mg/mL against trypomastigote and amastigote forms of T. cruzi, respectively, similar to standard drug benznidazole (EC50 of 4.8 and 1.4 mg/mL). Additionally, the fraction composed of 1–4 displayed no mammalian toxicity for murine fibroblasts (CC50 > 200 mg/mL), resulting in a SI > 40.8 and > 83.3 against trypomastigotes and amastigotes, respectively. Based on these results, the mechanism of action of this fraction was investigated. After a short-time incubation with the trypomastigotes, no alterations in the cell membrane permeability were observed. However, it was verified a decrease in the intracellular calcium of the parasites, without significant pH variations of the acidocalcisomes. The intracellular damages were followed by an upregulation of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ATP, but no depolarization effects were observed in the mitochondrial membrane potential. These data suggest that the fraction composed of 1–4 caused an irreversible oxidative stress in the parasites, leading to death. If adequately studied, these acetogenins can open new insights for discovery of new routes of death in T. cruzi.
Predictors for Invasive Therapy in the Management of Crohn’s Disease-related Spontaneous Intra-abdominal Abscess: Prognosis and Long-term Follow-up
Authors: Sun Yinghao , Liu Wei , Ma Ye , Yang Hong , Li Yue , Tan Bei , Li Ji , Qian Jiaming
Published: March 2023

Background
Decision-making in the management of Crohn’s disease (CD)-related spontaneous intra-abdominal abscess (IAA) is challenging. This study aims to reveal predictive factors for percutaneous drainage and/or surgery in the treatment of CD-related spontaneous IAA through long-term follow-up.
Methods
Data were collected, including clinical manifestations, radiography and treatment strategies, in Chinese patients with CD-related IAA in a tertiary medical center from Jan 2014 to Dec 2017. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify predictors for invasive therapy, which were incorporated together to develop a prognostic nomogram. Validation of the nomogram was assessed by a separate cohort of patients with CD-related IAA from Jan 2018 to Mar 2021.
Results
Altogether, 33 CD patients were identified as having IAA through enhanced CT scans. The median follow-up time was 52.0 (33.5, 60.0) months. Eighteen (54.5%) patients underwent conservative medical treatment, and 15 (45.5%) patients underwent percutaneous drainage and/or surgical intervention (invasive treatment group). The 1-, 2-, and 5-year overall survival rates without invasive treatment were 69.7%, 57.3%, and 53.7%, respectively. On univariate Cox analysis, nonperienteric abscess (HR: 6.391, 95% CI: 1.970-20.728, p = 0.002), max abscess diameter (HR: 1.015, 95% CI: 1.005–1.025, p = 0.003) and width of sinus (HR: 1.246, 95% CI: 1.037–1.498, p = 0.019) were significantly associated with worse OS without invasive treatment. Nonperienteric abscess was significantly associated with worse OS without invasive treatment on multivariate Cox analysis (HR: 5.738, 95% CI: 1.763–18.672, p = 0.004). These factors were incorporated together to develop a prognostic nomogram and were externally confirmed in the validation cohort. The concordance index was 0.842 (95% CI: 0.681–0.983, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Nonperienteric abscesses indicate a more aggressive treatment strategy, such as percutaneous drainage and/or surgery, in the management of CD-related IAA. A nomogram could help recognize patients who are more likely to require invasive treatment.
Impacts of obesity and metabolic health on global subclinical left cardiac function: TyG index may be a predictor
Authors: Mei Jiajie , Li Yanhua , Dong Jianli , Bai MiaoMiao , Jiang Yinong , Qu Xiaofeng , Yin Lili
Published: March 2023

Background: Obesity is a recognized risk factor for heart failure. People with similar weights may have different metabolic health. Notably, insulin resistance is a hallmark of obesity and a feature of heart failure. We aimed to evaluate the effects of obesity and metabolic health status on subclinical left cardiac function. We also investigated whether insulin resistance (TyG index) plays a role in BMI-linked subclinical left cardiac dysfunction.
Methods: The study involved 403 volunteers. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess associations between obesity, metabolic health, and overall subclinical left cardiac function .Mediating analysis was used to explore the role of the TyG index in the association between BMI and left cardiac function. Finally, ROC analysis was performed to explore the predictive value of the TyG index in subclinical left cardiac dysfunction.
Results: The correlation analysis showed that metabolic unhealth increased the risk of subclinical left ventricular (LV) dysfunction; obesity was associated with an increased risk of global left cardiac dysfunction regardless of metabolic health status. The TyG index mediated 25% of the associations between BMI and Left atrial (LA) function. ROC analysis exhibited that the TyG index can be used as a predictor of LA dysfunction (AUC = 0.63), and the optimal cut-off point for the TyG index is 9.33.
Conclusions: Even a "non-obese metabolically unhealthy" is a detrimental state of early LV function; obesity remains a major risk factor for global subclinical left cardiac dysfunction. Using the TyG index could allow early identification of individuals at high risk of subclinical left cardiac dysfunction.
Registration number：ChiCTR2200057991；Date of registration: 2022-03-25
URL:http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=162316
All together now: disentangling Beatles’ song titles in medical research articles
Authors: Maci Stefania , Lorenzo Cherubino Di , Vollono Catello
Published: March 2023

Background
The purpose of this paper is to understand the reason(s) why Beatles’ song titles are used as titles for medical research publications.
Methods
546 article titles have been collected over a period of 57 years (1965–2022) and linguistically analysed. Titles were classified according to three different perspectives: (1) a textual perspective (level of informativeness); (2) a sentence viewpoint (information packaging and meaning); and at (3) the lexical level (degree of accessibility and referential transparency).
Result
Here we show that the Beatles' quotations have gradually augmented over the years, with a peak in 2002, and then a gradual rise up to 2021, with a preference for using compound (57.32%) and nominal (38.09%) titles. As to the way in which information is packaged, titles are primarily focus ones (62.08). Interestingly, well 75.64% titles are constructed with no specialized language, while only 5.86% titles are ‘language as mention’, that is titles with markedly non-specialized items which appear to be borrowed from the song itself and stylistically marked with the actual quotations
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that, by quoting a Beatles song title, the author of the publication clearly creates an attention-seeking device with startling effect. Such an approach does not appear to be dependent on a specific period of time, journal, or Beatles song. They can thus be defined as attractors.
Germline pathogenic variants in HNRNPU are associated with alterations in blood methylome
Authors: Balasubramanian Meena , Lee Sunwoo , Ochoa Eguzkine , Badura-Stronka Magdalena , Donnelly Deirdre , Lederer Damien , Lynch Sally , Gardham Alice , Morton Jenny , Stewart Helen , Docquier France , Rodger Fay , Martin Jose , Toribio Ana , Maher Eamonn , Balasubramanian Meena
Published: March 2023

HNRNPU encodes a multifunctional RNA-binding protein that plays critical roles in regulating pre-mRNA splicing, mRNA stability, and translation. Aberrant expression and dysregulation of HNRNPU have been implicated in various human diseases, including cancers and neurological disorders. We applied a next generation sequencing based assay (EPIC-NGS) to investigate genome-wide methylation profiling for > 2M CpGs for 7 individuals with a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with HNRNPU germline pathogenic loss-of-function variants. Compared to healthy individuals, 227 HNRNPU-associated differentially methylated positions were detected. Both hyper- and hypomethylation alterations were identified but the former predominated. The identification of a methylation episignature for HNRNPU-associated neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) implicates HNPRNPU-related chromatin alterations in the aetiopathogenesis of this disorder and suggests that episignature profiling should have clinical utility as a predictor for the pathogenicity of HNRNPU variants of uncertain significance. The detection of a methylation episignaure for HNRNPU-associated NDD is consistent with a recent report of a methylation episignature for HNRNPK-associated NDD.
Application of artificial intelligence wearable devices based on neural network algorithm in mass sports activity evaluation
Authors: Liang Jun , He Qing
Published: March 2023

Based on the rapid development of big data, cloud computing, Internet of things and other technologies in recent years, intelligent hardware devices has been applied to all aspects of life. Under this background, some scholars have put forward relevant concepts such as "Smart Life". In the field of mass sports life, through the development and application of science and technology, there has been new changes related to the application of neural network algorithm technology and intelligent hardware devices. Therefore, artificial intelligence wearable devices based on wearable technology came into being. This paper analyzes the application of this device in mass sports activities. Then, this paper describes the key research technologies of motion data processing based on neural network algorithm, including: depth frame differential convolution neural network structure, motion data extraction method, human motion signal processing algorithm, etc; Then it analyzes the action recognition and interaction system design based on Intelligent wearable devices. Finally, it analyzes the recognition results of human action system, the accuracy of human action recognition system and the factors that affect the performance of the recognition system. It is concluded that the artificial intelligent wearable devices designed in this paper can be well used in popular sports activities. Finally, it introduces the research on the evaluation strategy of popular sports activities based on artificial intelligence, and hopes that this equipment can help public sports activities. This paper studies the neural network algorithm and applies it to the design process of artificial intelligence wearable devices, which promotes the development of mass sports activity evaluation.
Fractal Analysis of Mandibular Trabecular Structure in Individuals with Different Vertical Dentofacial Skeletal Patterns
Authors: Büyükbayraktar Zeynep Çoban , Büyük Süleyman Kutalmış , Korkmaz Yasemin Nur , Akdemir Hale
Published: March 2023

Background: Different vertical dentofacial skeletal patterns may affect bone density of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and various mandibular structures. This study aimed to examine changes in mandibular trabecular structure in vertical dentofacial patterns using fractal analysis.
Methods: Dental-skeletal Class I patients randomly selected from the university orthodontic clinic were allocated into 3 groups (low angle, normal angle and high angle) according to the SN-GoMe angle. Bone density of mandibular structures (corpus, angulus and condyle) were measured bilaterally on panoramic radiographs of the patients using fractal analysis.
Results: Left condylar fractal dimension (FD) measurements differed significantly among the groups (p=.041). Compared to other groups, left condylar FD values were lower in the high angle group. Right and left mandibular angulus FD values were lower in the low angle group but the difference was non-significant (p>.05). Within-group comparisons showed a significant difference in FD values between right and left corpus in the low angle subjects (p=.047).
Conclusion: Lower mandibular condylar FD values observed in high angle subjects may herald possible joint disorders. Low angle subjects exhibit lower FD values in the mandibular angulus. This may be related to degenerative changes in that region characterized by reduced bone density which results from increased muscle activity.
Complex Network Analysis of Back Squats Pre-Activation on Parameters of a 3-minute All-out Test in Recreational Runners
Authors: Gama Maria Carolina Traina , Manchado-Gobatto Fúlvia Barros , Gobatto Claudio Alexandre
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to investigate the impact of post-activation potentiation enhancement (PAPE) on parameters of 3-minute all-out test (3MT) on non-motorized tethered running performance by applying the concept of complex networks for integrative analysis. Ten recreational sports athletes where submitted to anthropometric tests, 1RM ramp, and 3MT trials (PAPE and CONTROL conditions) across five separate test sessions. The conditioning activity model applied was two series of six back squats at 60% 1RM. Based on the complex network, graphs were constructed for each scenario (CONTROL and PAPE) to investigate the Degree, Eigenvector, Pagerank, and Betweenness centrality metrics. PAPE scenario shows greater centrality of anthropometrics and conditioning parameters related to aerobic efficiency, ranking among the top-five classified nodes. Paired Student t-test (p ≤ 0.05) results for 3MT showed differences between two conditions (PAPE vs. CONTROL) for values of EP-W (407.83 ± 119.30; 539.33 ± 177.10) and rEP-W.kg-1(5.38 ± 1.70; 6.91 ± 2.00), and mechanical parameters in absolute and relativized values of peak output power, mean output power, peak force, and mean force. Our results suggest that PAPE modifies the graphs' configuration, raising the network density, and may increase the neuromuscular functions and running economy. In addition, it seems to optimize the activation of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism.
Acute bilateral deafness and bilateral blindness in a patient with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Xu Junrong , Li Fei , Xue Yongjie
Published: March 2023

Background

Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a devastating acute or subacute neurological disorder caused by thiamine deficiency. Wernicke encephalopathy is characterized by the triad of ocular signs, cerebellar dysfunction, and confusion. Visual loss and hearing loss are less common findings in WE. Here, we report a case of Wernicke encephalopathy in a nonalcoholic liver cirrhosis patient who present with acute bilateral deafness and bilateral blindness.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old Chinese man presented with a history of bilateral blindness and bilateral hypoacousia for 3 days. He had a history of liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis C virus infection and did not have a habit of alcohol consumption. Ophthalmologic and otologic examination showed no obvious abnormalities. MRI findings revealed symmetric FLAIR hyperintensities in the brain stem, medulla oblongata, bilateral dorsal thalamus, and periventricular region of the third ventricle. One day after hospitalization, the patient developed mild coma. Based on the laboratory and neuroimaging findings, we diagnosed the patient with Wernicke encephalopathy. He soon regained consciousness after administration of thiamine. Both visual acuity and hearing function improved gradually.

Conclusions

We suggest that Wernicke encephalopathy can present with bilateral blindness and bilateral deafness.
Blue mussels’ valve behavior exhibits daily and lunar rhythms during the high Arctic polar day
Authors: Moal Alexandre Le , Payton Laura , Andrade Hector , Camus Lionel , Ballantine Carl , Ciret Pierre , Tran Damien
Published: March 2023

Marine species exhibit a multitude of biological rhythms, in accordance with their complex ecosystem governed by sun, earth and moon trajectories. Because of the inclination of the earth’s axis, the high Arctic ecosystem is characterized by several months of permanent illumination during the polar day (PD). The persistence of biological rhythms in this photic context remains unclear. Yet, this information is crucial for the understanding of polar ecosystems functioning, as well as to predict the impact of future climate changes. Particularly, the impact of extreme photoperiods on recent invasive species remains largely unknown. Here, we investigate how environmental cycles shape the behavior of a re-emerging polar resident, the mussel Mytilus sp. during PD (17 April to 26 August 2020; Svalbard, Ny-Ålesund, 78°56’ N, 11°56’ E). Our results show that in the high Arctic PD, mussels’ behavior is shaped by both the photoperiod and the diel sun trajectories above the horizon. Additionally, mussels also exhibit tidal, semi-lunar, and lunar rhythms of valve opening amplitude. We argue that these rhythms may have ecosystems functioning implications, and that the mussels’ ability to deal with drastic light regimes may explain their northward expansion and new resettlement in high Arctic.
Introduction of 3D-classification and its derived surgical sequence of Schatzker type IV tibial plateau fractures
Authors: Liu Zihao , Wang Shengjie , Wang Shuai , Peng AQin
Published: March 2023

Introduction
Schatzker IV tibial plateau fractures usually have worse prognosis due to its high variability and the combination of bony and soft tissue injuries. The aim of this study was to introduce a new classification of Schatzker IV tibial plateau fractures based on the injury mechanism and evaluate its reliability. The secondary aim was to evaluate the outcomes of operative Schatzker IV tibial plateau fractures treated according to the surgical sequences which were determined by the new classification.
Materials and Methods
63 operative Schatzker IV tibial plateau fractures which were treated following the new surgical sequence were enrolled in our study. CT images of these patients were reviewed and classified twice according to our new classification by four observers. The reliability of the classification was calculated by application of kappa analysis. The surgical sequence determined by the classification was evaluated by observing the the postoperative efficacy during the follow-up.
Results
The intra-observer reliability of 3D-classification showed excellent agreement according to Landis and Koch (The mean k = 0.897, CI 0.806–0.971). And the inter-obsever reliability of 3D-classification also showed excellent agreement. (The mean k = 0.883, CI 0.786–0.961). All patients were followed up and the average follow-up of the cases was 12.8 months (6–28 months). As for the evaluation of the postoperative efficacy, according to KSS, 53 cases were rated as excellent, 8 cases were rated as good and 2 cases were considered as fair results.
Conclusions
The new proposed classification showed high intra and inter-observer reliability in our study. And the surgical sequence determined by the classification can help surgeons to acquire good reduction and rigid internal fixation. Therefore the new classification of Schatzker IV tibial plateau fractures and the accompanied surgical sequence are worthy of further popularization and application in clinical trials.
Interneuronal GluK1 kainate receptors control maturation of GABAergic transmission and network synchrony in the hippocampus
Authors: Ojanen Simo , Kuznetsova Tatiana , Kharybina Zoia , Voikar Vootele , Lauri Sari E , Taira Tomi
Published: March 2023

Kainate type glutamate receptors (KARs) are strongly expressed in GABAergic interneurons and have the capability of modulating their functions via ionotropic and G-protein coupled mechanisms. GABAergic interneurons are critical for generation of coordinated network activity in both neonatal and adult brain, yet the role of interneuronal KARs in network synchronization remains unclear. Here, we show that GABAergic neurotransmission and spontaneous network activity is perturbed in the hippocampus of neonatal mice lacking GluK1 KARs selectively in GABAergic neurons. Endogenous activity of interneuronal GluK1 KARs maintains the frequency and duration of spontaneous neonatal network bursts and restrains their propagation through the hippocampal network. In adult male mice, the absence of GluK1 in GABAergic neurons leads to stronger hippocampal gamma oscillations and enhanced theta-gamma cross frequency coupling, coinciding with faster spatial relearning in the Barnes maze. In females, loss of interneuronal GluK1 results in shorter sharp wave ripple oscillations and slightly impaired abilities in flexible sequencing task. In addition, ablation of interneuronal GluK1 resulted in lower general activity and novel object avoidance, while causing only minor anxiety phenotype. These data indicate a critical role for GluK1 containing KARs in GABAergic interneurons in regulation of physiological network dynamics in the hippocampus at different stages of development.
Evaluating potential of leaf reflectance spectra to monitor plant genetic variation in nature
Authors: Li Cheng , Czyz Ewa A , Halitschke Rayko , Baldwin Ian T , Schaepman Michael E , Schuman Meredith C
Published: March 2023

Remote sensing of vegetation by its reflection of light is increasingly used to characterize trait distributions in plant communities. How leaves reflect light is determined by their structure and contents of pigments, water, and abundant dry matter constituents like lignins, phenolics, and proteins. High-resolution ("hyperspectral") spectroscopy can characterize trait variation at finer scales, and may help to reveal underlying genetic variation: information important for assessing the potential of populations to adapt to global change. Here, we use a set of 360 inbred genotypes of the wild coyote tobacco Nicotiana attenuata: wild accessions, recombinant inbred lines (RILs), and transgenic lines (TLs) with targeted changes to gene expression, to dissect genetic versus non-genetic influences on variation in leaf spectra across three experiments. We calculated leaf reflectance from field spectroradiometer measurements covering visible to short-wave infrared wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation (400-2500 nm) using a standard radiation source and backgrounds, resulting in a small and quantifiable measurement uncertainty. Plants were grown in more controlled (glasshouse) or more natural (field) environments, and leaves were measured both on- and off-plant with the measurement set-up thus also in more to less controlled environmental conditions. Entire spectra varied across genotypes and environments. We found that the greatest variance in leaf reflectance was explained by between-experiment and non-genetic between-sample differences, with subtler and more specific variation distinguishing groups of genotypes. The visible spectral region was most variable, distinguishing experimental settings as well as groups of genotypes within experiments, whereas parts of the short-wave infrared may vary more specifically with genotype. Overall, more genetically variable plant populations also had more varied leaf spectra. We highlight key considerations for the application of field spectroscopy to assess genetic variation in plant populations.
IL-1β Stimulated Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Ameliorate Rheumatoid Arthritis via Inducing Apoptosis of Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes
Authors: Chiu Yun-Hsuan , Liang Ya-Han , Hwang Jeng-Jong , Wang Hwai-Shi
Published: March 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by synovial proliferation and lymphocyte accumulation leading to progressive damage of the periarticular bone and the articular cartilage. The hyperplasia of the synovial intima lining mainly consists of fibroblast-like synoviocytes-rheumatoid arthritis (HFLS-RA) which exhibit apoptosis-resistance, hyper-proliferation, and high invasiveness. The therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) treatment in RA has been shown to be due to its immuno-regulatory ability. However, the exact factors and mechanisms involved in MSCs treatment in RA remain unclear. In this study, TRAIL receptor-Death receptor 4 (DR4), DR5, and LFA-1 ligand-intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were upregulated in IL-1β-stimulated HFLS-RA. We demonstrated that the total cell number of IL-1β-stimulated hUCMSCs adhering to IL-1β-stimulated HFLA-RA increased via LFA-1/ICAM-1 interaction. Direct co-culture of IL-1β-stimulated hUCMSCs with IL-1β-stimulated HFLS-RA increased the apoptosis of HFLS-RA. RA symptoms in the CIA mouse model improved after administration of IL-1β-stimulated hUCMSCs. In conclusion, IL-1β-stimulated hUCMSCs adhering to HFLS-RA occurred via LFA-1/ICAM-1 interaction, apoptosis of HFLS-RA was induced via TRAIL/ DR4, DR5 contact, and RA symptoms and inflammation were significantly improved in a CIA mouse model. The results of this study suggest that IL-1β-stimulated hUCMSCs have therapeutic potential in RA treatment.
Functional networks of muscle fibers facilitate inter-muscular coordination
Authors: Retortillo Sergi Garcia , Gomez Carlos Romero , Ivanov Plamen
Published: March 2023

Fundamental movement patterns require continuous skeletal muscle coordination, where muscle fibers with different timing of activation synchronize their dynamics across muscles with distinct functions. It is unknown how muscle fibers integrate as a network to generate and fine tune movements. Here we investigate how distinct muscle fiber types dynamically synchronize as a network across muscles and respond to fatigue during consecutive bouts of maximal exercise. We uncover that a complex inter-muscular network of muscle fiber cross-frequency interactions underlies basic movements. The network exhibits hierarchical organization of sub-networks and modules with specific links strength stratification profile, reflecting distinct functions of the muscles involved in movements. We find complex network reorganization with fatigue where network modules follow distinct phase-space trajectories reflecting their functional role and adaptation to fatigue. The findings reveal general principles of inter-muscular coordination for fundamental movements, and open a new area of research, Network Physiology of Exercise.
Lessons learned conducting abortion research in fragile contexts:Reflections from a mixed methods study in Africa (the AMoCo study)
Authors: Moore Ann M. , Pasquier Estelle , Williams Timothy , Fetters Tamara , Powell Bill , Gabanzi Mariette Claudia Adame , Mitutso Nadine Neema , Muamira Lucien Ngabo , Owolabi Onikepe , Fotheringham Claire , Chen Huiwu , Lagrou Daphne , Baudin Elisabeth , Schulte-Hillen Catrin , Ngbale Richard
Published: March 2023

Background
Conducting abortion research in fragile settings presents challenges, many of which are present in other low-resourced settings to various degrees but when appearing all together, collectively served to create a set of barriers to collecting data that required creative adaptations to address and even then, we could not overcome all of them.
Results
Challenges that we experienced in the course of this mixed methods research project included limited access to the study sites by research team members, research being delayed to prioritize life-saving priorities which must take precedence when resource constraints mean that both cannot be carried out, a population skeptical of participating in research due to having negative experiences with the state/other actors as well as due to being research-naïve, geographic and language constraints impacting participant recruitment because of the fact that people are coming from various displaced locations to a particular health facility, a low literacy population meant that they could not read the consent form and due to the stigmatized subject matter we did not want a family member consenting them, and respondents’ challenges participating around the time of discharge because respondents needed to travel home with family members.
Conclusions
These strategies are relevant not only to abortion research but also other research in resource-constrained/fragile and conflict-affected contexts. Improving the health of the most vulnerable can only be done through understanding barriers to care in insecure and challenging environments. Recommendations include to plan for offsite and long-distance training, supervision, and quality assurance; attempt to negotiate flexible timelines with donors; hire field staff whose only responsibility is data collection; where possible, find a way to include the most vulnerable members of the study population; adapt informed consent processes for low literacy populations; and consider including travel support for respondents. Iterating improvements in data collection innovations in these contexts will advance the field by spurring more research upon which to base policy and practices.
Lymphocyte mitochondrial genome integrity is not altered by cladribine
Authors: Järvinen Elina , Suomi Fumi , Stewart James B. , Guala Dimitri , Valori Miko , Jansson Lilja , Nieminen Janne , McWilliams Thomas G. , Tienari Pentti
Published: March 2023

Cladribine tablets are a treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) with effects on lymphocytes’, yet its mode of action has not been fully established. Here, we evaluated the effects of cladribine on mitochondrial DNA integrity in human lymphocytes. We treated cultured human T-cell lines (CCRF-CEM and Jurkat) with varying concentrations of cladribine to mimic the slow cell depletion observed in MS. The CCRF-CEM were slower proliferating and more susceptible to cladribine than Jurkat cells. In both cells mitochondrial protein synthesis, mtDNA copy number and Mitochondrial Cytochrome-C Oxidase-I mRNA mutagenesis was not affected by cladribine, while some caspase-3 cleavage was detected in Jurkat cells at 100 nM concentration. Cladribine treatment at concentrations up to 10 nM in CCRF-CEM and 100 nM in Jurkat cells did not induce significant increase in mtDNA somatic mutations. We analyzed ex vivo peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 8 MS patients and 4 controls. Subtle effect of cladribine on cell viability was found at 5 nM, however, we did not find any differences in mtDNA somatic mutations in separated lymphocyte subpopulations (CD4+, CD8 + and CD19+) between treated vs. non-treated cells. Overall, the mutation rate in mtDNA was similar in MS-patients and controls. When different lymphocyte subpopulations were compared, greater mtDNA mutation levels were detected in CD8+ (p = 0.014) and CD4+ (p = 0.038) as compared to CD19 + cells, these differences were independent of cladribine treatment. We conclude that cladribine has no detectable mutagenic effect on the mitochondrial genome of cultured lymphocytes nor does it impair mitochondrial function in human T-cell lines.