bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive randomization methods for sequential multiple assignment randomized trials (smarts) via thompson sampling
Authors: Norwood Peter , Davidian Marie , Laber Eric
Published: December 2024

Response-adaptive randomization (RAR) has been studied extensively in conventional, single-stage clinical trials, where it has been shown to yield ethical and statistical benefits, especially in trials with many treatment arms. However, RAR and its potential benefits are understudied in sequential multiple assignment randomized trials (SMARTs), which are the gold-standard trial design for evaluation of multi-stage treatment regimes. We propose a suite of RAR algorithms for SMARTs based on Thompson Sampling (TS), a widely used RAR method in single-stage trials in which treatment randomization probabilities are aligned with the estimated probability that the treatment is optimal. We focus on two common objectives in SMARTs: (1) comparison of the regimes embedded in the trial and (2) estimation of an optimal embedded regime. We develop valid post-study inferential procedures for treatment regimes under the proposed algorithms. This is nontrivial, as even in single-stage settings standard estimators of an average treatment effect can have nonnormal asymptotic behavior under RAR. Our algorithms are the first for RAR in multi-stage trials that account for non-standard limiting behavior due to RAR. Empirical studies based on real-world SMARTs show that TS can improve in-trial subject outcomes without sacrificing efficiency for post-trial comparisons.
BioElectra-BiLSTM-Dual Attention classifier for optimizing multilabel scientific literature classification
Authors: Inaam ul haq Muhammad , Li Qianmu , Mahmood Khalid , Shafique Ayesha , Ullah Rizwan
Published: December 2024

Scientific literature is growing in volume with time. The number of papers published each year by 28 100 journals is 2.5 million. The citation indexes and search engines are used extensively to find these publications. An individual receives many documents in response to a query, but only a few are relevant. The final documents lack structure due to inadequate indexing. Many systems index research papers using keywords instead of subject hierarchies. In the scientific literature classification paradigm, various multilabel classification methods have been proposed based on metadata features. The existing metadata-driven statistical measures use bag of words and traditional embedding techniques, like Word2Vec and BERT, which cannot quantify textual properties effectively. In this paper, we try to solve the limitations of existing classification techniques by unveiling the semantic context of the words using an advanced transformer-based recurrent neural networks (RNN) approach incorporating Dual Attention and layer-wise learning rate to enhance the classification performance. We propose a novel model, BioElectra-BiLSTM-Dual Attention that extracts the semantic features from the titles and abstracts of the research articles using BioElectra-encoder and then BILSTM layer along with Dual Attention label embeddings their correlation matrix and layer-wise learning rate strategy employed for performance enhancement. We evaluated the performance of the proposed model on the multilabel scientific literature LitCovid dataset and the results suggest that it significantly improves the macro-F1 and micro-F1 score as compared to the state-of-the-art baselines (ML-Net, Binary Bert, and LitMCBert).
Image sentiment analysis based on distillation and sentiment region localization network
Authors: Zhang Hongbin , Feng Ya , Yuan Meng , Hou Jingyi , Zhang Jin , Li Guangli
Published: December 2024

Accurately identifying the emotions in images is crucial for sentiment content analysis. To detect local sentiment regions and acquire discriminative sentiment features, we propose a novel model named Distillation-guided and Contrastive-enhanced Sentiment Region Localization Network (DC-SRLN) to effectively complete image sentiment analysis. Two smart but heterogeneous SRLNs are designed first to pursue local sentiment regions. Then an innovative contrastive learning mode is implemented between global and local features to further enhance the discriminative ability of the sentiment features. Third, the enhanced global and local sentiment features are seamlessly integrated to guide each SRLN accurately capture local sentiment regions. Finally, an adaptive feature fusion module is created to fuse the heterogeneous features from the two SRLNs and generate a new multi-view multi-granularity sentiment semantics with more discriminative ability for image sentiment analysis. Extensive experimental results on three prevailing datasets, namely Twitter I, FI, and ArtPhoto, exhibit that DC-SRLN achieves satisfactory accuracies of 93.2%, 80.6%, and 78.7%, respectively, outperforming recent state-of-the-art baselines. Moreover, DC-SRLN needs less training time, demonstrating its high practicality. The code of DC-SRLN is freely available at https://github.com/Riley6868/DC-SRLN.
Surgery for blood culture-negative infective endocarditis: outcomes and the role of molecular biological imaging as diagnostic approach
Authors: Grubitzsch Herko , Puritz Johannes Erik , Greve Dustin , Biefer Hector Rodriguez Cetina , von Schöning Dinah , Kikhney Judith , Moter Annette , Sima Stefanie-Teodora , Schneider-Reigbert Matthias , Stegemann Miriam Songa , Pfäfflin Frieder , Falk Volkmar
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to analyse outcomes of surgery for blood culture-negative infective endocarditis (BCNIE) and to evaluate the role of molecular biological imaging.

METHODS

Patients undergoing surgery for native or prosthetic valve endocarditis from 2013 to 2022 were analysed regarding blood culture-positive infective endocarditis (BCPIE) and BCNIE. For laboratory diagnostics in BCNIE, excised valves or prostheses underwent conventional microbiological culture and fluorescence in situ hybridization combined with 16S rRNA-gene polymerase chain reaction and sequencing (FISHseq).

RESULTS

Of 521 patients overall, we identified 473 patients (342 males, mean age 63 ± 14.4 years) with preoperative blood cultures: 396 with BCPIE (83.7%) and 77 with BCNIE (16.3%). Preoperative characteristics and operative procedures were comparable between groups and the calculated perioperative risk (EuroSCORE II) was identical (BCNIE: 12.2 ± 8.8%, BCPIE: 12.9 ± 11.9%, P = 0.788). At surgery, signs of infective endocarditis were present in 71%, missing in 18% and inconclusive in 10% of patients with BCNIE. While valve cultures alone identified pathogens in 32% of BCNIE patients, the combination with FISHseq confirmed the infective aetiology in 98% and identified causative pathogens in 52%. Overall, early mortality was similar in BCNIE (16.9%) and BCPIE (18.2%, P = 0.620), but increased in 37 BCNIE patients without pathogen identification compared to 40 patients with pathogen identification (27.0% vs 7.5%, P = 0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

Integrating FISHseq as molecular biological imaging technique into valve analysis algorithms in patients undergoing surgery for BCNIE increases diagnostic gain and potentially improves outcome.
A previously reported bottleneck in human ancestry 900 kya is likely a statistical artifact
Authors: Deng Yun , Nielsen Rasmus , Song Yun S
Published: December 2024

It was recently reported that a severe ancient bottleneck occurred around 900 thousand years ago in the ancestry of African populations, while this signal is absent in non-African populations. Here, we present evidence to show that this finding is likely a statistical artifact.
Life Course Patterns of Work History and Cognitive Trajectories Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Xingzhi , Fu Peipei , Jiang Hantao , Wang Xueqing , Zhou Chengchao
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Prior research indicated that diverse work experiences in early and middle life stages are associated with cognitive function in later life. However, whether life course patterns of work history are associated with later life cognitive function in China remains unknown.

Methods

Data were derived from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, and 5,800 participants aged 60 years or older were included. We used sequence analysis to identify the work history patterns between ages 18 and 60. Growth curve modeling was performed to evaluate how the work-history patterns are associated with global and domain-specific (i.e., mental intactness and episodic memory) cognitive function.

Results

We identified 8 work patterns, distinguished by duration, transitions, timing, and sequence of work history. Compared with individuals exposed to lifelong agricultural work, those engaged in lifelong nonagricultural employed work had better cognitive function in later life and experienced slower rates of cognitive decline in both global cognitive function and the mental intactness domain. In addition, individuals who shifted from agricultural to nonagricultural employed work early (around age 30) had better global cognitive function in later life, whereas the association was not significant for such a transition later (around age 50).

Discussion

Our study highlights the importance of the duration, sequence, and timing of transitions in work history for cognitive health among older Chinese. Future interventions and policies aimed at improving cognitive function should fully consider the cumulative and dynamic nature of work from a life course perspective.
Challenges and Opportunities in Searching for Missing Persons with Dementia: Insights from Specialized Police Officers
Authors: Yoo Jeong Ah
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

Getting lost can cause profound distress for individuals with dementia and their families, while also imposing a significant burden on society. Existing literature primarily focuses on the incidence and consequences of such cases, overlooking the challenges and issues involved in locating them. To address this gap, the present study aimed to explore the firsthand experiences and efforts of police officers in charge of missing cases.

Research Design and Methods

This study utilized a cross-sectional research design and conducted in-depth interviews with purposefully sampled police officers responsible for missing persons with dementia in South Korea. The qualitative information gathered from the interviews was analyzed using Content and Thematic Analysis.

Results

Despite various preventive programs and tracking technologies available, traditional methods such as foot searches remain more practical due to difficulties in utilizing such means by individuals with dementia. Additionally, their unpredictable characteristics and the lack of adequate and systematic societal support make even traditional searches challenging. Therefore, cooperation and awareness from caregivers and the community are crucial for police search and rescue operations. The study also highlights the importance of tailored response measures and legal support, as well as the need for collaborative efforts across societal domains for successful outcomes.

Discussion and Implications

The findings of this study are anticipated to contribute to a broader understanding of this pressing issue and provide critical insights for developing more effective response measures.
Health insurance in rural Tanzania promotes self-care for among patients with non-communicable diseases via their disease management behaviours
Authors: Miyashita Ayano , Nakamura Keiko , Kibusi Stephen M , Meshi Eugene Benjamin , Bendera Anderson , Sato Hideko , Al-Sobaihi Saber , Tashiro Yuri , Ramaiya Kaushik L , Sunguya Bruno F , Seino Kaoruko
Published: December 2024

Background

The rise of hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) in Tanzania underscores the importance of self-care practices (SCP) for disease management. Despite the proven effectiveness of SCP, financial barriers in resource-limited rural areas hinder continuous care. Health insurance (HI) emerges as a critical solution to alleviate financial constraints and support SCP.

Methods

This study examined an association between HI and SCP by generalised linear and ordinal logistic regressions, adjusted for sociodemographic factors. Mediation analysis highlighted the role of disease management behaviours (hospital visits and medication adherence) in the association. Data were collected through individual interviews with 909 patients.

Results

Better SCP for HTN and DM were associated with the National Health Insurance Fund (HTN: coefficient=0.571; DM: coefficient=0.567, p<0.001) and the improved Community Health Fund (iCHF) or CHF (HTN: coefficient=0.330; DM: coefficient=0.472, p<0.05), after adjustment for sociodemographic variables. Mediation analysis showed that disease management behaviours partially or fully mediated the relationship between HI and SCP.

Conclusions

Enrolment in HI by patients in rural Tanzania exhibited better disease management behaviours and SCP. Efforts should focus on leveraging the HI schemes to expand their coverage in rural areas, which could benefit patients with non-communicable diseases.
Biogeographical distribution of gut microbiome composition and function is partially recapitulated by fecal transplantation into germ-free mice
Authors: Yang Julianne C , Lagishetty Venu , Aja Ezinne , Arias-Jayo Nerea , Chang Candace , Hauer Megan , Katzka William , Zhou Yi , Sedighian Farzaneh , Koletic Carolina , Liang Fengting , Dong Tien S , Situ Jamilla , Troutman Ryan , Buri Heidi , Bhute Shrikant , Simpson Carra A , Braun Jonathan , Jacob Noam , Jacobs Jonathan P
Published: December 2024

Fecal microbiota transplantation has been vital for establishing whether host phenotypes can be conferred through the microbiome. However, whether the existing microbial ecology along the mouse gastrointestinal tract can be recapitulated in germ-free mice colonized with stool remains unknown. We first identified microbes and their predicted functions specific to each of six intestinal regions in three cohorts of specific pathogen-free mice spanning two facilities. Of these region-specific microbes, the health-linked genus Akkermansia was consistently enriched in the lumen of the small intestine compared to the colon. Predictive functional modeling on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing data recapitulated in shotgun sequencing data revealed increased microbial central metabolism, lipolytic fermentation, and cross-feeding in the small intestine, whereas butyrate synthesis was colon-enriched. Neuroactive compound metabolism also demonstrated regional specificity, including small intestine-enriched gamma-aminobutyric acid degradation and colon-enriched tryptophan degradation. Specifically, the jejunum and ileum stood out as sites with high predicted metabolic and neuromodulation activity. Differences between luminal and mucosal microbiomes within each site of the gastrointestinal tract were largely facility-specific, though there were a few consistent patterns in microbial metabolism in specific pathogen-free mice. These included luminal enrichment of central metabolism and cross-feeding within both the small intestine and the colon, and mucosal enrichment of butyrate synthesis within the colon. Across three cohorts of germ-free mice colonized with mice or human stool, compositional and functional region specificity were inconsistently reproduced. These results underscore the importance of investigating the spatial variation of the gut microbiome to better understand its impact on host physiology.
New industrial path development in “less glamorized regions”: actors, agencies, and rural opportunities
Authors: Doloreux David , De Fuentes Claudia , Peerally Jahan Ara , Quilley Stephen
Published: December 2024

This article analyses the case of the wine industry in rural Nova Scotia (Canada) and addresses the following question: what sparks a new wine industry path in rural regions that lack supportive preconditions and local assets? We examine this from the perspective of different actors and their agencies when creating the conditions and structures for shaping new path development. Our findings provide a novel, empirically based understanding of individual and system-level agency and a nuanced account of new industrial path development in rural regions, which is often missing in contemporary debates.
Unwilling or Unable: Newfangled Self-Defence Against ISIS in Syria
Authors: Weisbord Noah
Published: December 2024

Focussing on a sequence of tense, era-defining moments in 2014 as world leaders struggled to comprehend and respond effectively to the dramatic rise of Islamic State forces in Syria and Iraq, this Review Essay is in part a chronicle of the readings (and indeed, on occasion, the significant mis-readings) of a diverse cast of actors seeking legal justification and irrefutable political arguments for the use of force in an escalating situation of geopolitical crisis and unspeakable atrocity. The essay provides a thoughtful, stirring reminder of the abiding value of close, critical reading in human rights and humanitarian practice.
Myelodysplastic syndromes among atomic bomb survivors in Nagasaki: similarities to and differences from de novo and therapy-related cases
Authors: Ando Koji , Miyazaki Yasushi
Published: December 2024

Epidemiological studies for atomic bomb (A-bomb) survivors clearly demonstrated that A-bomb radiation increased the risk of hematological neoplasms, such as acute and chronic leukemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) among survivors. Several studies on MDS among survivors investigated its characteristics, and it seems that MDS among survivors has different features from those seen in de novo MDS and therapy-related MDS. In this short review, we describe the differences of clinical features, chromosomal alterations and genome aberrations among them.
Population shifts during the reconstruction period in areas marked as evacuation zones after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident: a mobile spatial statistics data-based time-series clustering analysis
Authors: Abe Toshiki , Yoshimura Hiroki , Saito Hiroaki , Murakami Michio , Higuchi Asaka , Moriyama Nobuaki , Amir Isamu , Ito Naomi , Ozaki Akihiko , Sawano Toyoaki , Yamamoto Chika , Zhao Tianchen , Tsubokura Masaharu
Published: December 2024

An accurate understanding of the population is essential for the development of medical care and social resources. However, the development of transportation networks has increased temporal and spatial fluctuations in the population, making it difficult to accurately forecast medical care demand, especially during disaster recovery. This study examined the population movement in areas affected by the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident using demographic data. The target area includes two cities, seven towns, and three villages that are in the evacuation zone. Using a population estimation that reflects changes in population by time of day, which was obtained from a mobile phone company (NTT DOCOMO), we applied clustering analysis to examine the population dynamics over a 4-year period. From 2019 to 2022, the population increased in eight areas and decreased in four areas. The population was further classified into five groups, identifying the unique characteristics and fluctuations of each group. Different regions had different percentages of groups reflecting the characteristics of their populations. The differences among the regions and demographic transition showed the potential to understand the challenges of recovery and to use the data to inform healthcare planning and social policies. This method, which utilizes estimated population data, is also applicable to the study of medical resources and social policies in the event of future disasters and may be useful in analyzing regional characteristics in detail.
What can we learn from high background radiation area (HBRA) studies in three Asian countries: India, China and Indonesia? Radiological aspects in various HBRAs
Authors: Kranrod Chutima , Kudo Hiromi , Tokonami Shinji
Published: December 2024

Radiation is a pervasive natural phenomenon that has been present on earth since its inception. However, exposure to high background radiation levels can pose significant health risks to individuals living in affected areas. In recent years, several studies have been conducted in high background radiation areas (HBRAs), including high radon concentration areas, to understand the radiological aspects and the lessons learned of radiation exposure. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of radiological hazards and lessons learned from studies in high-background radiation areas in some countries of Asia (India, China and Indonesia). In this article, we will explore the hazards associated with radiation exposure from terrestrial radiation and additionally radon inhalation, the different studies conducted in HBRA and the lessons learned from these studies. Ultimately, this article aims to provide a better understanding of the radiological aspects of HBRAs and to identify the key lessons learned from previous studies to prevent future health risks. Likewise, research conducted in different high-background radiation areas in some countries of Asia has provided valuable insights into the radiological aspects of these areas and their potential impact on human health.
Networking in biological and physical retrospective dosimetry in Europe and beyond
Authors: Ainsbury Elizabeth A
Published: December 2024

Ionizing radiation is of huge benefit to society; however, the risks of radiation overexposure in occupational settings or due to accidents or other incidents are of growing concern, not least due to the potential implications for exposed individuals in terms of acute high dose (e.g. ARS) and/or longer term low dose health effects such as cancer or genetic effects. This manuscript considers the state of the art for biological and ‘fortuitous’ physical retrospective dose estimation either in blood or in materials being carried by suspected exposed individuals, respectively, in support of routine and emergency radiation incident response, and the potential future progress in this fascinating and active field. In recent years, international experts in this field have engaged in active collaboration and networking on support of these goals, and continued efforts in this area will ensure the global community remains ready to respond to radiation accidents and incidents. In addition, over and above improved dose and exposure characterization in the field of radiation emergency medicine, scientific developments in biological markers may contribute to potential contributions to individualized or stratified risk estimation in molecular epidemiology to assess long term, low dose radiation risk; in personalized medical dosimetry for better justification and optimization for use of radiation in such settings, and even perhaps for potential future situations involving radiation exposure, for example protection of individuals traveling to space.
Extracellular vesicles role in radio(nuclide)therapy
Authors: Constanzo J , Pouget J-P
Published: December 2024

Conventional radiation therapy can restore the ability of cells to undergo immunogenic cell death. Recent preclinical studies suggest that targeted radionuclide therapy, which delivers radiation to tumors at a continuous low dose rate, also stimulates the immune system and offers a promising approach for overcoming resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this context, we examined the growing body of preclinical and clinical findings showing that the immune system can be activated by the release of extracellular vesicles from irradiated cells, contributing to the antitumor immunity.
Survivalist mobilities: freedom of movement and the economic lives of settlement refugees in Uganda
Authors: Gidron Yotam
Published: December 2024

This article draws upon qualitative and quantitative data from Uganda to explore the ways in which mobility supports the livelihoods of refugees in rural settlements. It shows how, under conditions of extreme precarity and against the background of gradual reductions in humanitarian aid, refugees resort to short distance ‘survivalist mobilities’ underpinned by economic desperation. While trips to urban areas are rare and infrequent, refugees regularly move out of the settlements to access firewood, vegetation, and farmland and to engage in casual labour and petty trade. Such activities enable day-to-day survival, but there are structural constraints that prevent them from becoming sustainable livelihoods that allow for stability or growth. The article challenges the common description of mobility in policy and scholarly discourse as empowering, natural, and essential for the socio-economic progress of refugees, as well as some of the assumptions underpinning current refugee ‘self-reliance’ policies in Uganda.
Uniform interpolation via nested sequents and hypersequents
Authors: van der Giessen Iris , Jalali Raheleh , Kuznets Roman
Published: December 2024

A modular proof-theoretic framework was recently developed to prove Craig interpolation for normal modal logics based on generalizations of sequent calculi (e.g. nested sequents, hypersequents and labelled sequents). In this paper, we turn to uniform interpolation, which is stronger than Craig interpolation. We develop a constructive method for proving uniform interpolation via nested sequents and apply it to reprove the uniform interpolation property for normal modal logics $\textsf{K}$, $\textsf{D}$ and $\textsf{T}$. We then use the know-how developed for nested sequents to apply the same method to hypersequents and obtain the first direct proof of uniform interpolation for $\textsf{S5}$ via a cut-free sequent-like calculus. While our method is proof-theoretic, the definition of uniform interpolation for nested sequents and hypersequents also uses semantic notions, including bisimulation modulo an atomic proposition.
Assessing Racial and Educational Segmentation in Large Marriage Markets
Authors: Ciscato Edoardo
Published: December 2024

Complementarities between partners’ characteristics are often held responsible for the patterns of assortative mating observed in marriage markets along different dimensions, such as race and education. However, when the marriage market is segmented into racially and educationally homogeneous clusters, people naturally have more match opportunities with their likes. In this paper, we build an empirically tractable dynamic matching model with endogenous separation and remarriage. In every period, agents participate in a competitive matching game with transferable utility, where mating strategies depend on both the expected match gains and search frictions in the form of meeting costs. We leverage panel data on the duration of both non-cohabiting and cohabiting relationships to jointly estimate both determinants of assortative mating with a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population. We show that, in the absence of search frictions, the share of matches between people of the same race (education) would decrease from 88.2% (49.2%) to 55.5% (40.8%), as opposed to 53.3% (33.5%) if singles were randomly matched. As a result, search frictions explain nearly all the racial homogamy observed in the data, but only approximately half of the observed educational homogamy, with the other half attributed to match complementarities. In a counterfactual exercise, we show that minority groups experiencing an unfavourable gender ratio when marriage markets are segmented, such as Hispanic men and Black women, would benefit from access to a broader and more diverse pool of partners.
Relationship Between Clozapine-Induced Inflammation and Eosinophilia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kikuchi Yuki , Otsuka Yuji , Ito Fumiaki , Yada Yuji , Tanifuji Hiroaki , Komatsu Hiroshi , Tomita Hiroaki
Published: December 2024

Background and Hypothesis

Eosinophilia has not been highlighted in clozapine-induced adverse inflammatory events, as it is often asymptomatic and self-limiting, while drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome occurs rarely. This study aimed to reveal the temporal relationships between eosinophilia and other inflammatory events during clozapine initiation.

Study Design

The temporal relationships between eosinophilia and other inflammatory events were evaluated among 241 patients with schizophrenia treated with clozapine for the first time at 7 hospitals. Risk factors for eosinophilia were investigated among preceding inflammatory events and other clinical characteristics. Furthermore, patients with eosinophilia were stratified by the severity of adverse inflammatory events and their clinical characteristics were compared.

Study Results

Of the 54 patients who experienced inflammatory adverse events, 27 (50%) developed eosinophilia. In all but 1 patient, clinical symptoms of inflammatory adverse events preceded eosinophilia. In contrast, of the 187 patients without inflammatory events, 21 (11%) developed eosinophilia. Multivariate analysis revealed that more severe preceding inflammatory adverse events were associated with a greater risk of eosinophilia. The median time to the first detection of eosinophilia and peak eosinophil count occurred significantly earlier in patients with severe adverse events than in asymptomatic patients.

Conclusions

In most cases, eosinophilia developed after the onset of inflammatory symptoms. Preceding inflammation was associated with the development of clozapine-induced eosinophilia. Eosinophilia may not be suitable as an early detection marker of severe inflammatory adverse effects. These findings enhanced our understanding of the involvement of eosinophilia in clozapine-induced inflammatory events.
Integrated analysis of miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks in Anoectochilus roxburghii in response to blue laser light
Authors: Li Hansheng , Cheng Chunzhen , Chen Mulan , Li Yuqing , Li Jinkun , Ye Wei , Sun Gang
Published: December 2024

Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lind. has significant medicinal and economic value, and the social demand for this species is increasing annually. Laser light sources have different luminescent mechanisms compared with ordinary light sources and are also important factors regulating the synthesis of functional metabolites in A. roxburghii. However, the regulatory mechanism through which A. roxburghii responds to blue laser light has not been investigated. Previous studies have shown that blue-laser treatment results in more red leaves than blue- or white-light treatment. Here, the differences in the effects of laser treatment on A. roxburghii were analyzed by transcriptome sequencing. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that the membranes, calcium ion binding, brassinosteroid-mediated signaling pathway and response to salicylic acid play important roles in the response of A. roxburghii to blue laser light. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed the involvement of multiple pathways in the response to blue-laser treatment, and among these, beta biosynthesis, flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, thiamine metabolism, limonene and pinene biosynthesis, and peroxisomes play core roles. Cytoscape interaction analysis of the differentially expressed miRNA targets indicated that novel_miR_66, novel_miR_78 and novel_miR_212 were most likely involved in the effect of blue laser light on A. roxburghii. Metabolic content measurements showed that blue laser light increased the beet red pigment, thiamine, total flavonoid and limonene contents, and qPCR analysis confirmed that novel_miR_21, novel_miR_66, novel_miR_188 and novel_miR_194 might participate in the blue-laser signaling network through their target genes and thereby regulate the functional metabolite accumulation in A. roxburghii. This study provides a scientific basis for high-yield A. roxburghii production.
Tsw-resistant Pepper Cultivars Offer Limited Protection Against Resistance-breaking Isolates of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus
Authors: Gautam Saurabh , Workneh Fekede , Chinnaiah Senthilraja , Rush Charles , Xue Qingwu , Anderson Nolan , Crosby Kevin M. , Gadhave Kiran R.
Published: December 2024

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is an important vegetable crop in the US. Thrips-transmitted tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), a causal agent of tomato spotted wilt (TSW) disease cause severe yield losses across the globe. TSWV management is centered around planting resistant pepper cultivars containing a single dominant gene Tsw. However, due to a long-term overreliance on Tsw-resistant cultivars, resistance-breaking (RB) strains of TSWV disrupting Tsw resistance have been reported globally. To comprehensively understand the extent of protection offered by Tsw resistant pepper cultivars against RB isolates, we studied the TSW incidence, severity, and TSWV accumulation in resistant and susceptible pepper cultivars through multi-year field trials (2021-2023) in Bushland, TX. For the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons, the presence of RB isolates in field-infected plants was confirmed using controlled mechanical inoculation experiments. During all three seasons, resistant cultivars (2021: 6.77%, 2022: 17.33%, and 2023: 11.29%) had significantly lower TSW incidence, compared with the susceptible cultivars (2021: 23.85, 2022: 25.03, and 2023: 20.63%). Furthermore, susceptible cultivars accumulated significantly higher amounts of TSWV than resistant cultivars. Also, the median severity of TSW symptoms in resistant cultivars was always lower than in susceptible cultivars. Results from this study show that TSWV-resistant pepper cultivars are still the best option against TSWV RB-isolates under field conditions. However, they fail to offer a complete protection against these isolates. The long-term success of single gene-mediated resistance warrants better harmonization of resistant cultivars with diverse sources of resistance and with existing IPM strategies proven effective against TSWV and thrips.
Clinical Safety and Efficacy of Dual Wavelength Low-Level Light Therapy in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Thomas Meryl , Stockslager Max , Oakley John , Womble Thomas Matthew , Sinclair Rodney
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

The light-emitting diode cap being investigated is FDA cleared for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

OBJECTIVE

Evaluating 3 versions of a red and blue light LED cap: (1) 625- and 660-nm red light, (2) 425-nm blue light, and (3) both 425-nm blue light and 625- and 660-nm red light against sham.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-six-week, multicenter, randomized, controlled, double-blinded study. Adults aged 18 to 65 years with AGA were randomized to an active device or sham and underwent 10-minute treatments daily.

RESULTS

One hundred sixty subjects were randomized. Ninety-one subjects were excluded for the per-protocol analysis. The per-protocol population included participants who completed 16 weeks of treatment, had no major protocol violations, and were at least 80% treatment compliant. Although the primary endpoint (mean change in non-vellus hair count from baseline to week 16) did not reach statistical significance in the individual study arms, in the pooled analysis (combining the 3 active study arms), there was a statistically significant (p = .033) difference versus sham. The pooled study cap group achieved 28.5 more hairs per cm2 when compared with sham.

CONCLUSION

The LED caps were well tolerated and increased hair density in patients with AGA.
Interpretation of treating different diseases with the same method: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study of the association between depression and insomnia
Authors: Tong Jinlin , Wang Yuyao , Liu Hong , Li Yuanyuan , Pan Jinghua , Fan Danping , Zhao Hongyan
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Mendelian randomization (MR) has been widely utilized for causal inference between diseases, and its implementation within the domain of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is considered feasible. Although previous clinical and epidemiological studies have demonstrated a close relationship between insomnia and depression, the inherent genetic factors underlying these associations are unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the causal relationship between depression and insomnia via bidirectional 2-sample MR and increase the understanding of the TCM theory of treating different diseases with the same method, particularly in the context of comorbid depression and insomnia.

Methods:

Genetic data related to depression and insomnia were extracted from published genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data sets. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with depression and insomnia were used as instrumental variables to construct an “SNP-exposure-outcome” model. Bidirectional 2-sample MR analysis was conducted via inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR Egger regression, simple mode, and weighted mode methods. Furthermore, heterogeneity tests, pleiotropy analyses, and sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results:

The MR results revealed a causal relationship between depression and an increased risk of developing insomnia (IVW, OR=1.400, 95% CI: 1.246–1.573, P<0.001), and a causal relationship between insomnia and an increased risk of developing depression (IVW, OR=1.204, 95% CI: 1.144–1.266, P<0.001).

Conclusions:

There is a bidirectional causal relationship between depression and insomnia. These findings provide new theoretical support for the TCM approach of treating different diseases with the same method in the prevention and treatment of depression and insomnia and provide a scientific basis for the modernization of TCM.
Modified Canabrava technique with a 4-closed loop intraocular lens injected into the anterior chamber
Authors: Canabrava Sergio , Carvalho Marina S. , Mahler Ori , Einan-Lifshitz Adi , de Rojas Silva Victoria , Gaona Alejandro Lopez
Published: December 2024

The goal of this study was to describe and assess the efficacy of a new modification for scleral fixation of a 4-eyelet foldable intraocular lens (IOL) using a previous IOL injector in the anterior chamber. An uncontrolled case series was used to investigate the efficacy of this new modification of the original Canabrava technique. Intraocular pressure and visual acuity data were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively. Surgeries were performed with the new modification of the Canabrava technique in 12 patients with implantation incisions as small as 2.2 mm (3.2 to 2.2 mm). The follow-up period ranged from 1 to 13 months. Corrected distance visual acuity improved significantly in all 12 patients, from 0.38 to 0.31 logMAR, whereas the cell count from specular microscopy decreased in average (preoperatively 2191 cells/mm2; postoperatively 1843 cells/mm2) and median (preoperatively 2225 cells/mm2; postoperatively 1902 cells/mm2). This current modification of the Canabrava technique greatly simplifies the procedure, making it easier and faster and with a shorter learning curve.
Clinical proof-of-concept results with a novel TRPA1 antagonist (LY3526318) in 3 chronic pain states
Authors: Mellado Lagarde Marcia M. , Wilbraham Darren , Martins Ricardo Fonseca , Zhao Heather Shi , Jackson Kimberley , Johnson Kirk W. , Knopp Kelly L. , DiBenedetto David , Broad Lisa M.
Published: December 2024

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is implicated in physiological and pathological nociceptive signaling, but the clinical benefit of TRPA1 antagonists in chronic pain is not clearly demonstrated. LY3526318 is an oral, potent, and selective novel TRPA1 antagonist. The Chronic Pain Master Protocol was used to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LY3526318 in 3 randomized, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept studies in knee osteoarthritis pain (OA), chronic low back pain (CLBP), and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). Participants were randomized (1:2, placebo:LY3526318, 250 mg daily) into an 8-week double-blinded period. At 4 weeks, participants treated with LY3526318 transitioned to a placebo. The primary endpoint was the self-reported daily pain intensity measured using a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) at 4 weeks. All endpoints were collected for up to 8 weeks. Change from baseline in average weekly NRS was analyzed using Bayesian mixed model repeated measures in the OA (N = 160), CLBP (N = 159), and DPNP (N = 154) studies. Baseline characteristics were balanced between treatment arms. Mean NRS change from baseline to week 4 did not differ significantly between placebo and LY3526318; however, a numerical improvement was observed in the CLBP, not in the OA or DPNP populations. Safety analysis integrated across studies enhanced understanding of the safety profile of LY3526318. LY3526318 showed a potential drug-induced hepatotoxic effect posing a risk for clinical development. No other safety signals were identified. LY3526318 showed potential for different responses among chronic pain indications and patient subpopulations, highlighting challenges in developing TRPA1 antagonists but supporting their value as a target in managing chronic pain.
Remote social conversations between families and aged francophone seniors in retirement homes in New Brunswick and Manitoba during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Beogo Idrissa
Published: December 2024

Background

COVID-19 pandemic led to excessive mortality in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). LTCFs visitation bans resulted in the development of virtual social conversations (VSC) to address social isolation and loneliness. Numerous initiatives have been developed but, little literature exists on VSC with linguistic minorities in Canada.

Objectives:

To explore VSC by families to continue socializing with their seniors in LTCFs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

Cross-sectional design conducted in Manitoba and New Brunswick (Canada).

Results:

Thirteen participants were included, all females. Facetime (47.4%) and Facebook (21%) were the top VSC applications used. Most (61%) participants started conversing around the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic. Their conversations were shared between seeking their seniors’ medical information (52.4%); general information (23.8%), or personal items requests (9.5%). Finally, seven participants tremendously improved their applications manipulation expertise (+1.15-point).

Conclusions:

Families valued being able to effectively continue socializing over restrictions. VSC in LTCFs is a pertinent socialization avenue.
The immune health assessment technique of the elderly population and its application and promotion in the prevention and treatment of common aged diseases
Authors: Li Qing , Meng Ling-bing
Published: December 2024

Immunosenescence refers to the phenomenon in which the human immune system gradually degrades in structure and function with the increase of age. The mechanism of human immunosenescence is complex, involving the systematic changes of multiple immune cell populations and molecular markers. At present, there is a significant lack of data on the characteristics of immunosenescence in the whole population in China, which limits the comprehensive understanding of the law of immunosenescence in the elderly population and the formulation of effective coping strategies. To accurately assess the immune health status of the elderly population, the integrated application of multiomics technology and informatics technology can help scientists to understand the changes of the immune system with age in detail and depict the characteristic map of immunosenescence, which not only helps to understand the molecular mechanism of aging but also provides potential targets for the development of intervention measures for age-related diseases. Moreover, it can provide a scientific basis for the health management of the elderly population, help formulate more effective prevention and treatment strategies, and provide a solid scientific basis for the formulation of public health policies in our country in the future.
Exposure to different severities of famine and subsequent risk of sarcopenia in old age
Authors: Lu Miao-Miao , Zhou Yu-Wei , Jin Xi
Published: December 2024

Background

Poor nutritional status is closely related to the development of sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia. Limited articles have evaluated the impact of undernutrition at different stages of life on the development of sarcopenia or possible sarcopenia in old age. The 1959–1962 Chinese famine provided the possibility for large-scale population studies on the effects of long-term undernutrition or inadequate intake on various health problems. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of long-term reduction of food intake (exposure to the 1959–1962 Chinese famine) in early life on the development of sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia in later life.

Methods

We used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) 2015 and obtained information on whether participants had experienced famine from the 2014 Life Course Survey of Chinese Residents. After data integration and cleaning, we divided the included participants into five age-exposure cohorts based on birthdate, including cohorts exposed to famine during preschool, midchildhood, young teenage years, teenage years, and adulthood to analyze the long-term effects of exposure to famine on the development of sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia.

Results

Exposure to moderate or severe famine did not significantly increase the risk of possible sarcopenia (P > 0.05). In a further stratified analysis, moderate famine exposure in adulthood significantly increased the risk of possible sarcopenia (1.475 times; 95% CI : 1.104–1.969, P = 0.009). However, there was no significant association between famine exposure and possible sarcopenia in the preschool, midchildhood, young teenage, or teenage exposure cohorts (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Exposure to famine in preadulthood did not increase the risk of possible sarcopenia in older adults. However, the risk of possible sarcopenia in later life was increased about 50% among participants who were exposed to moderate famine in adulthood.
Effect of different minimally invasive gastric cancer surgical approaches on postoperative intestinal mucosal barrier function
Authors: Li Kai-Yan , Huang Dao-Lai , Wen Bo , Wei Shi-Zhuang , Li Lin-Yi , Fang Wen-Jie , Wu Xiang-Hua
Published: December 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different minimally invasive surgical procedures on intestinal mucosal barrier function.

Methods

In this study, 76 patients who underwent minimally invasive gastric cancer surgery were selected, and peripheral blood was collected to test the levels of serum plasma d-lactic acid, diamine oxidase, and bacterial endotoxin before and 1 and 3 days after surgery. These markers were compared at different time points before and after surgery to understand the recovery of the intestinal mucosal barrier function in patients after surgery.

Results

On the first postoperative day, the change in serum d-lactic acid relative to the preoperative levels was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the laparoscopic surgery group (4.05 [−0.195, 6.917 mmol/L]) than in the robot-assisted surgery group (7.56 [5.190, 12.145 mmol/L]). Both the serum d-lactic acid and bacterial endotoxin levels were significantly higher on the first postoperative day compared with preoperative levels, and although they showed a gradual decrease by the third day, they remained significantly higher than the preoperative levels (P < 0.05). The Student-Newman-Keuls method for pairwise comparison of the measurements at each time point demonstrated that the differences in d-lactic acid and bacterial endotoxin levels between the preoperative sample and the sample collected on the third postoperative day were statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with the laparoscopic surgery group, the robotic surgery group showed larger changes in the postoperative serum d-lactic acid level, suggesting that the robotic surgery resulted in greater damage to the barrier function of the intestinal mucosa. The serum d-lactic acid and bacterial endotoxin levels were significantly higher in postoperative patients and showed a trend to gradually decrease, suggesting that the intestinal mucosal barrier function of patients after minimally invasive gastric cancer surgery is damaged and then gradually recovers.