bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic typing and intrafamilial transmission of human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 in non-endemic areas of China
Authors: Ji Huimin , Chang Le , Yan Ying , Sun Huizhen , Liu Yi , Wang Lunan
Published: October 2023

The origin and intrafamilial transmission of Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) in non-endemic populations such as China is still unknown. In this study, donors from blood banks/centers in China (including 28 provinces and Shenzhen city) during 2019 and 2021 were screened for HTLV-1/2 antibody, and all the reactive samples were tested using a line immunoassay (LIA) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Samples that can be detected using qPCR were amplified and sequenced for the long terminal repeat (LTR) region. The positive donors were contacted to identify their relatives. As a result, 4,451,883 blood donors were totally tested, and 50 of them were confirmed to be HTLV-1/2 positive. Viral LTR sequences genotyped from 26 HTLV-1 carriers demonstrated that all had the HTLV-1a genotype, of which Transcontinental and Japanese subgroups accounted for half each. There were 17 family members of 11 index donors detected, and the HTLV-1 infection rate in the spouses of male index donors (83.3%, 5/6) was significantly higher than that in the husbands of female index donors (0.0%, 0/4). However, 7 children of HTLV-1 positive women were tested and found negative. Therefore, our findings indicated that HTLV-1 is spreading silently from high-endemic to low-endemic areas in China. To prevent further HTLV-1/2 transmission, an efficient HTLV-1/2 screening strategy and counseling of the virus carriers are essential.
Bayesian workflow for the investigation of hierarchical classification models from tau-PET and structural MRI data across the Alzheimer’s disease spectrum
Authors: Belasso Clyde J. , Cai Zhengchen , Bezgin Gleb , Pascoal Tharick , Stevenson Jenna , Rahmouni Nesrine , Tissot Cécile , Lussier Firoza , Rosa-Neto Pedro , Soucy Jean-Paul , Rivaz Hassan , Benali Habib
Published: October 2023

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) diagnosis in its early stages remains difficult with current diagnostic approaches. Though tau neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) generally follow the stereotypical pattern described by the Braak staging scheme, the network degeneration hypothesis (NDH) has suggested that NFTs spread selectively along functional networks of the brain. To evaluate this, we implemented a Bayesian workflow to develop hierarchical multinomial logistic regression models with increasing levels of complexity of the brain from tau-PET and structural MRI data to investigate whether it is beneficial to incorporate network-level information into an ROI-based predictive model for the presence/absence of AD.

Methods

This study included data from the Translational Biomarkers in Aging and Dementia (TRIAD) longitudinal cohort from McGill University’s Research Centre for Studies in Aging (MCSA). Baseline and 1 year follow-up structural MRI and [18F]MK-6240 tau-PET scans were acquired for 72 cognitive normal (CN), 23 mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 18 Alzheimer’s disease dementia subjects. We constructed the four following hierarchical Bayesian models in order of increasing complexity: (Model 1) a complete-pooling model with observations, (Model 2) a partial-pooling model with observations clustered within ROIs, (Model 3) a partial-pooling model with observations clustered within functional networks, and (Model 4) a partial-pooling model with observations clustered within ROIs that are also clustered within functional brain networks. We then investigated which of the models had better predictive performance given tau-PET or structural MRI data as an input, in the form of a relative annualized rate of change.

Results

The Bayesian leave-one-out cross-validation (LOO-CV) estimate of the expected log pointwise predictive density (ELPD) results indicated that models 3 and 4 were substantially better than other models for both tau-PET and structural MRI inputs. For tau-PET data, model 3 was slightly better than 4 with an absolute difference in ELPD of 3.10 ± 1.30. For structural MRI data, model 4 was considerably better than other models with an absolute difference in ELPD of 29.83 ± 7.55 relative to model 3, the second-best model.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that representing the data generating process in terms of a hierarchical model that encompasses both ROI-level and network-level heterogeneity leads to better predictive ability for both tau-PET and structural MRI inputs over all other model iterations.
Predictive value of admission red cell distribution width-to-platelet ratio for 30-day death in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: an analysis of the MIMIC database
Authors: Liang Hanbai , Liu Ping , Guo Lei , Feng Jie , Yin Cheng , Zhao Dongdong , Chen Longyi
Published: October 2023

Aim

Prognostic assessment plays an important role in the effective management of patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The study aimed to investigate whether elevated red cell distribution width-to-platelet ratio (RPR) at admission was related to 30-day death in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 2,823 adult patients with ICH from the Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care (MIMIC) III and IV databases between 2001 and 2019. The Cox proportional hazard model was utilized to evaluate the relationship between RPR levels and 30-day death risk. The area under receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to assess the predictive ability of RPR for 30-day death in patients with ICH.

Results

At the end of the 30-day follow-up, 799 (28.30%) patients died, and the median RPR level was 0.066 (0.053, 0.087). After adjusting for confounders, the tertile 3 of RPR levels [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.37, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.15–1.64] were associated with a higher risk of 30-day death in patients with ICH compared with tertile 1. In the stratified analyses, elevated RPR levels were found to be associated with an increased risk of 30-day death in patients aged <65 years (HR = 1.77, 95%CI: 1.29–2.43), aged ≥65 years (HR = 1.30, 95%CI: 1.05–1.61), with Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) <14 (HR = 1.65, 95%CI: 1.27–2.14), with Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) ≥4 (HR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.17–1.80), with (HR = 1.66, 95%CI: 1.13–2.43) or without sepsis (HR = 1.32, 95%CI: 1.08–1.61), and female patients (HR = 1.75, 95%CI: 1.35–2.26) but not in male patients (P = 0.139) and patients with GCS ≥14 (P = 0.058) or CCI <4 (P = 0.188). The AUC for RPR to predict 30-day death in patients with ICH was 0.795 (95%CI: 0.763–0.828) in the testing set, indicating a good predictive ability.

Conclusion

Elevated RPR levels were correlated with an increased risk of 30-day death in patients with ICH, and RPP levels showed good predictive ability for 30-day death.
Examination of betahistine bioavailability in combination with the monoamine oxidase B inhibitor, selegiline, in humans—a non-randomized, single-sequence, two-period titration, open label single-center phase 1 study (PK-BeST)
Authors: Strupp Michael , Churchill Grant C. , Naumann Ivonne , Mansmann Ulrich , Al Tawil Amani , Golentsova Anastasia , Goldschagg Nicolina
Published: October 2023

Background

Betahistine was registered in Europe in the 1970s and approved in more than 80 countries as a first-line treatment for Menière's disease. It has been administered to more than 150 million patients. However, according to a Cochrane systematic review of betahistine and recent meta-analyses, there is insufficient evidence to say whether betahistine has any effect in the currently approved dosages of up to 48 mg/d. A combination with the monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibitor, selegiline, may increase the bioavailability of betahistine to levels similar to the well-established combination of L-DOPA with carbidopa or benserazide in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. We investigated the effect of selegiline on betahistine pharmacokinetics and the safety of the combination in humans.

Methods

In an investigator-initiated prospective, non-randomized, single-sequence, two-period titration, open label single-center phase 1 study, 15 healthy volunteers received three single oral dosages of betahistine (24, 48, and 96 mg in this sequence with at least 2 days' washout period) without and with selegiline (5 mg/d with a loading period of 7 days). Betahistine serum concentrations were measured over a period of 240 min at eight time points (area under the curve, AUC0-240 min). This trial is registered with EudraCT (2019-002610-39) and ClinicalTrials.gov.

Findings

In all three single betahistine dosages, selegiline increased the betahistine bioavailability about 80- to 100-fold. For instance, the mean (±SD) of the area under curve for betahistine 48 mg alone was 0.64 (+/-0.47) h*ng/mL and for betahistine plus selegiline 53.28 (+/-37.49) h*ng/mL. The half-life time of around 30 min was largely unaffected, except for the 24 mg betahistine dosage. In total, 14 mild adverse events were documented.

Interpretation

This phase 1 trial shows that the MAO-B inhibitor selegiline increases betahistine bioavailability by a factor of about 80 to 100. No safety concerns were detected. Whether the increased bioavailability has an impact on the preventive treatment of Menière's disease, acute vestibular syndrome, or post-BPPV residual dizziness has to be evaluated in placebo-controlled trials.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05938517?intr=betahistine%20and%20selegiline&rank=1, identifier: NCT05938517.
Distinct changes in global brain synchronization in different motor subtypes of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Song Chendie , Shen Qin , Tan Changlian , Li Junli , Zhou Fan , Wang Tianyu , Zhang Lin , Wang Min , Liu Yujing , Yuan Jiaying , Cai Sainan , Liao Haiyan
Published: October 2023

This study investigated alterations in degree centrality (DC) in different motor subtypes of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and analyzed its clinical significance during disease occurrence. A total of 146 subjects were recruited in the study, including 90 patients with PD [51 and 39 with tremor dominant (TD) and akinetic-rigid dominant (ARD) disease, respectively] and 56 healthy controls (HCs). The resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data of all the subjects were obtained by 3.0 T magnetic resonance scans. The DC values, an indicator of whole brain synchronization, were calculated and compared among the TD, ARD, and HC groups. Disparities in DC values among the three groups were evaluated by analysis of variance and post hoc two-sample t-tests. Correlation between brain regions with DC differences and clinical variables were performed using partial correlation analysis after controlling for age, gender, and disease duration. Compared to the HCs, both TD and ARD groups demonstrated increased DC values bilaterally in the cerebellum; DC values were decreased in the left putamen and paracentral lobule in the TD group and in the left anterior cingulate gyrus and right supplementary motor area in the ARD group. Compared to the ARD group, the TD group showed decreased DC values in bilateral cerebellar hemispheres and increased DC values in the left anterior cingulate gyrus and right supplementary motor area. The DC of the whole brain showed inconsistencies and shared neural bases among patients with the two subtypes of PD. The differences between brain regions with abnormal DC values may be closely related to different clinical presentations of the two motor subtypes. Our findings provide new insights into the clinical heterogeneity of PD with respect to different motor subtypes.
Short-term memory impairment following recovery from systemic inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide in mice
Authors: Morimoto Kohei , Watanuki Shu , Eguchi Ryota , Kitano Taisuke , Otsuguro Ken-ichi
Published: October 2023

The relationship between neuroinflammation and mental disorders has been recognized and investigated for over 30 years. Diseases of systemic or peripheral inflammation, such as sepsis, peritonitis, and infection, are associated with increased risk of mental disorders with neuroinflammation. To elucidate the pathogenesis, systemic administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice is often used. LPS-injected mice exhibit behavioral abnormalities with glial activation. However, these studies are unlikely to recapitulate the clinical pathophysiology of human patients, as most studies focus on the acute inflammatory response with systemic symptoms occurring within 24 h of LPS injection. In this study, we focus on the effects of LPS on behavioral abnormalities following recovery from systemic symptoms and investigate the mechanisms of pathogenesis. Several behavioral tests were performed in LPS-injected mice, and to assess neuroinflammation, the time course of the morphological change and expression of inflammatory factors in neurons, astrocytes, and microglia were investigated. At 7 days post-LPS injection, mice exhibited short-term memory impairment accompanied by the suppression of neuronal activity and increases in morphologically immature spines. Glial cells were transiently activated in the hippocampus concomitant with upregulation of the microglial phagocytosis marker CD68 3 days after injection. Here we show that transient glial cell activation in the acute response phase affects neuronal activity and behavior following recovery from systemic symptoms. These findings provide novel insights for studies using the LPS-induced inflammation model and that will contribute to the development of treatments for mental disorders of this etiology.
Acute effect of different doses of caffeinated chewing gum on exercise performance in caffeine-habituated male soccer players
Authors: Yildirim Ulas Can , Akcay Neslihan , Alexe Dan Iulian , Esen Ozcan , Gulu Mehmet , Cîrtiţă-Buzoianu Cristina , Cinarli Fahri Safa , Cojocaru Marilena , Sari Cengizhan , Alexe Cristina Ioana , Karayigit Raci
Published: October 2023

The ergogenic benefits of caffeine have been well established, but there is scarce research on its chewing gum form. The present research aimed to examine the effects of different doses (100 and 200 mg) of caffeinated chewing gum on muscle strength, vertical jump performance, and ball-kicking speed in trained male soccer players. In a double-blind, randomized counterbalanced, and crossover research design, 14 male soccer players (age = 22 ± 2 y; body mass = 74.2 ± 7.1 kg; height = 180.0 ± 6.8 cm; habitual caffeine intake = 358.9 ± 292.4 mg/day) participated in three experimental trials. In each trial, participants performed isometric handgrip strength, quadriceps and hamstring strength, ball-kicking speed, and 15 s countermovement jump test 10 min after chewing 100 mg (LCAF) or 200 mg (MCAF) of caffeinated gum or placebo (PLA). MCAF improved quadriceps strength (53.77 ± 5.77 kg) compared to LCAF (49.62 ± 8.81 kg, p = 0.048) and PLA (49.20 ± 7.20 kg, p = 0.032). However, neither LCAF nor MCAF had a significant effect on the isometric handgrip and hamstring strength, ball-kicking speed, and 15 s countermovement jump test (all p > 0.05). These findings support chewing gum as an alternative mode of caffeine administration which can be used as a nutritional ergogenic aid for trained soccer players, at least for quadriceps strength.
Case Report: Primary endodermal sinus tumor on the abdominal wall near the right liver: a diagnostic pitfall
Authors: Chen Shuo , Chen Feng , Xu Xiao
Published: October 2023

Background

Endodermal sinus tumors are rare, especially extragonadal endodermal sinus tumors, which often occur in the midline of the brain, neck, chest, and abdomen.

Case summary

We present the case of a 37-year-old woman with a mass on the right edge of the liver. Color Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging examinations were performed before the operation. Given these results and the elevation of alpha-fetoprotein, the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma was made. Postoperative pathological examination indicated an endodermal sinus tumor on the abdominal wall near the right liver. The causes of misdiagnosis were analyzed, and the related literature was reviewed.

Conclusion

Primary endodermal sinus tumors on the abdominal wall near the right liver are easily misdiagnosed as hepatocellular carcinoma due to liver compression and elevated alpha-fetoprotein. The key point of differentiation is the wide basal connection between the tumor and the abdominal wall near the liver. In addition, the enhancement mode of endodermal sinus tumors is different from the enhancement pattern of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Core tip

Extragonadal endodermal sinus tumors often occur in the midline of the body. Here, we present a case of a primary endodermal sinus tumor on the abdominal wall near the right liver for the first time.
3D laparoscopic treatment of bladder cancer with pelvic multi-organ invasion: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Zheng , Deng Kaifeng , Sun Luping , Qu Lijun , Chao Xinhui , Rao Jingmin , Hong Caimmei , Zhuo Yumin , Lin Zhichao , Lai Caiyong
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Radical cystectomy with dissection of pelvic lymph nodes and urethral diversion is the standard surgical treatment for muscle-invasive non-metastatic bladder cancer. In rare cases where patients with bladder cancer without distant metastasis have pelvic multi-organ invasion, the cancer compresses or invades the ureter and, in severe cases, leads to bilateral upper urinary tract obstruction and renal damage. The treatment recommended by guidelines often cannot improve the patients’ clinical symptoms immediately, and patients cannot complete the treatment owing to severe side effects, resulting in poor survival benefits.

Case presentation

A 69-year-old woman with facial edema was treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University. The serum creatinine and potassium values were 1244 umol/L and 5.86 mmol/L, respectively. Pelvic magnetic resonance and abdominal computed tomography revealed that the bladder tumor had infiltrated the uterus, anterior vaginal wall, rectum, right ureter, right fallopian tube, and right ovary and metastasized to multiple pelvic lymph nodes. Tumor invasion of the right ureter resulted in severe hydronephrosis of the right kidney and loss of function and obstructive symptoms in the left kidney. Four days later, the patient’s creatinine level decreased to 98 u mol/L, the general condition significantly improved, and the patient and family members strongly desired surgical treatment of the tumor. Through a comprehensive preoperative discussion, possible intraoperative and postoperative complications were evaluated. Right nephrectomy, right ureterectomy, total pelvic organ resection, extended pelvic lymph node dissection, and bowel and urinary diversion were conducted under 3D laparoscopy-assisted treatment. The patient was followed-up for 1.5 years and showed good tumor control, self-care, and mental status.

Conclusion

Minimally invasive surgery is a curative option for patients with bladder cancer with pelvic multi-organ invasion without distant metastasis. Surgeons should strictly control the indications for surgery and warn patients about the occurrence of related post-surgical complications.
Mirabegron and antimuscarinics for treating ureteral stent-related symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs
Authors: Lu Youyi , Li Qi , Zou Qingsong , Cui Yuanshan
Published: October 2023

Objective: We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of mirabegron (50 mg/day) and antimuscarinics in treating ureteral stent-related symptoms (SRSs).

Methods: All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The RevMan version 5.3.0 software was used for statistical analysis.

Results: This meta-analysis included five RCTs involving 317 patients. A fixed effects model revealed that mirabegron was superior to antimuscarinics in treating urinary symptoms (MD −1.39, 95% CI −2.63 to −0.15, p = 0.03) and general health (MD −1.65, 95% CI −2.60 to −0.69, p = 0.0007) 1 week after treatment initiation. We observed no significant differences in body pain (MD 0.05, 95% CI −1.06 to 1.15, p = 0.94), work performance (MD −0.86, 95% CI −1.77 to 0.06, p = 0.07), and sexual matters (MD 0.03, 95% CI −0.77 to 0.83, p = 0.94). Two weeks after treatment initiation, the ureteral stent symptom questionnaire (USSQ) revealed no significant differences between the two groups. The mirabegron group demonstrated a significant improvement in the quality of life (QoL) (MD −0.18, 95% CI −0.34 to −0.01, p = 0.03), while the International Prostate Symptom Score did not reveal a significant difference between the two groups (MD −0.74, 95% CI −1.79 to 0.32, p = 0.17). Regarding safety, a pooled data analysis presented that the incidence of constipation was lower in the mirabegron group (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.77, p = 0.03). The mirabegron and antimuscarinics groups did not differ significantly concerning the risk of dry mouth (OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.27, p = 0.08).

Conclusion: Mirabegron is superior to antimuscarinics in alleviating ureteral SRSs and improving QoL. Additionally, mirabegron 50 mg/day presented safety with a lower incidence of constipation.
Carbohydrate metabolism and cytology of S-type cytoplasmic male sterility in wheat
Authors: Ge Shijie , Ding Fugong , Daniel Bimpong , Wu Cuicui , Ran Mingyang , Ma Chi , Xue Yuhang , Zhao Die , Liu Yike , Zhu Zhanwang , Fang Zhengwu , Zhang Gaisheng , Zhang Yingxin , Wang Shuping
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) is an important tool for hybrid heterosis utilization. However, the underlying mechanisms still need to be discovered. An adequate supply of nutrients is necessary for anther development; pollen abortion would occur if the metabolism of carbohydrates were hampered.

Methods

In order to better understand the relationship between carbohydrate metabolism disorder and pollen abortion in S-CMS wheat, the submicroscopic structure of wheat anthers was observed using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy; chloroplast proteome changes were explored by comparative proteomic analysis; sugar measuring and enzyme assays were performed; and the expression patterns of carbohydrate metabolism-related genes were studied using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) method.

Results

These results indicated that the anther and microspore in S-CMS wheat underwent serious structural damage, including premature tapetum degeneration, nutritional shortage, pollen wall defects, and pollen grain malformations. Furthermore, the number of chloroplasts in the anthers of S-CMS lines decreased significantly, causing abnormal carbohydrate metabolism, and disintegration of osmiophilic granules and thylakoids. Meanwhile, some proteins participating in the Calvin cycle and carbohydrate metabolism were abnormally expressed in the chloroplasts of the S-CMS lines, which might lead to chloroplast dysfunction. Additionally, several key enzymes and genes related to carbohydrate metabolism were significantly inhibited in S-CMS.

Discussion

Based on these results, we proposed a carbohydrate metabolism pathway for anther abortion in S-type cytoplasmic male sterility, which would encourage further exploration of the pollen abortion mechanisms for CMS wheat.
Comparative metabolomics analysis reveals dynamic changes in carbohydrate profiles of corms during the “relay growth” of konjac (Amorphophallus muelleri)
Authors: Qi Ying , Gao Penghua , Yang Shaowu , Li Lifang , Ke Yanguo , Wei Huanyu , Huang Feiyan , Yu Lei
Published: October 2023

The type and content of carbohydrates in konjac corms are an essential factors in determining the quality of konjac; however, the pattern of carbohydrate changes and the mechanism regulating the development of mother and daughter corms in the “relay growth” process of Amorphophallus muelleri remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate changes in corm carbohydrates during the growth cycle of A. muelleri and to compare the carbohydrate composition and the expression of related genes between mother and daughter corms. Integrated metabolome and RNA-seq analyses identified 37 differential metabolites as well as 8074 genes that were differentially expressed between mother and daughter corms, the majority of which were involved in starch and sucrose metabolism. More than 80% of the differential metabolites, including sucrose and starch, tended to accumulate in the mother corms; however, konjac glucomannan (KGM), as one of the most important carbohydrates and its major component of the corm, accumulated in higher amounts in the daughter corms. In addition, the expression of invertase and alpha-amylase that promote the breakdown of sucrose and starch was 351.78- and 15.63-fold higher, respectively, in the daughter corm, whereas that of the starch synthesis gene AkWAXY was only 0.096 times as high as in the mother corms. Furthermore, the level of cellulose synthase-like protein G, which promotes KGM synthesis, was 3.85 times higher in daughter corms compared to mother corms. Thus, we inferred that the daughter and mother corms had two distinct carbohydrate utilization strategies. This study provides insights into temporal changes in carbohydrates during the growth cycle of A. muelleri.
Unified Protocol for the transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders in people with post COVID-19 condition: study protocol for a multiple baseline n-of-1 trial
Authors: Martínez-Borba Verónica , Martínez-García Laura , Peris-Baquero Óscar , Osma Jorge , del Corral-Beamonte Esther
Published: October 2023

Background

Post COVID-19 syndrome, defined as the persistence of COVID-19 symptoms beyond 3 months, is associated with a high emotional burden. Post COVID-19 patients frequently present comorbid anxiety, depressive and related disorders (emotional disorders, EDs) which have an important impact on their quality of life. Unfortunately, psychological interventions to manage these EDs are rarely provided to post COVID-19 patients. Also importantly, most psychological interventions do not address comorbidity, namely simultaneous EDs present in COVID-19 patients. This study will explore the clinical utility and acceptability of a protocol-based cognitive-behavioral therapy called the Unified Protocol for the transdiagnostic treatment of EDs in patients suffering post COVID-19 condition.

Methods

A multiple baseline n-of-1 trial will be used, as it allows participants to be their own comparison control. Sample will be composed of 60 patients diagnosed with post COVID-19 conditions and comorbid EDs from three Spanish hospitals. After meeting the eligibility criteria, participants will answer the pre-assessment protocol and then they will be randomly assigned to three different baseline conditions (6, 8, or 10 days of assessments before the intervention). Participants and professionals will be unblinded to participants’ allocation. Once the baseline assessment has been completed, participants will receive the online psychological individual intervention through video-calls. The Unified Protocol intervention will comprise 8 sessions of a 1 h duration each. After the intervention, participants will answer the post-assessment protocol. Additional follow-up assessments will be conducted at one, three, six, and twelve months after the intervention. Primary outcomes will be anxiety and depressive symptoms. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, emotion dysregulation, distress tolerance, and satisfaction with the programme. Data analyses will include between-group and within-group differences and visual analysis of patients’ progress.

Discussion

Results from this study will be disseminated in scientific journals. These findings may help to provide valuable information in the implementation of psychological interventions for patients suffering post COVID-19 conditions.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov, identifier (NCT05581277).
Which factors modulate spontaneous motor tempo? A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Desbernats Anaïs , Martin Elodie , Tallet Jessica
Published: October 2023

Intentionally or not, humans produce rhythmic behaviors (e.g., walking, speaking, and clapping). In 1974, Paul Fraisse defined rhythmic behavior as a periodic movement that obeys a temporal program specific to the subject and that depends less on the conditions of the action (p. 47). Among spontaneous rhythms, the spontaneous motor tempo (SMT) corresponds to the tempo at which someone produces movements in the absence of external stimuli, at the most regular, natural, and pleasant rhythm for him/her. However, intra- and inter-individual differences exist in the SMT values. Even if several factors have been suggested to influence the SMT (e.g., the age of participants), we do not yet know which factors actually modulate the value of the SMT. In this context, the objectives of the present systematic review are (1) to characterize the range of SMT values found in the literature in healthy human adults and (2) to identify all the factors modulating the SMT values in humans. Our results highlight that (1) the reference value of SMT is far from being a common value of 600 ms in healthy human adults, but a range of SMT values exists, and (2) many factors modulate the SMT values. We discuss our results in terms of intrinsic factors (in relation to personal characteristics) and extrinsic factors (in relation to environmental characteristics). Recommendations are proposed to assess the SMT in future research and in rehabilitative, educative, and sport interventions involving rhythmic behaviors.
Which factor affects the storage of real-world object information in visual working memory: perceptual or conceptual information?
Authors: Li Qiankai , Chen Zhen , Sun Qi , Li Xinyu
Published: October 2023

Visual working memory (VWM) is a limited dynamic memory system where people temporarily store and process visual information. Previous research showed that real-world objects do not have a fixed capacity compared to simple ones. In konkle’s study, they found that the conceptual information and perception information of real-world objects had different effects on visual long-term memory (VLTM) capacity. VLTM capacity was more dependent on conceptual information than the perceptual distinctiveness of real-world objects. However, we did not know how the intrinsic attribute of real-world objects affects VWM capacity yet. In the current research, we set five experiments to explore the comparative effects of conceptual vs. perceptual information of real-world objects in VWM capacity. Our results suggested that VWM capacity was more dependent on the perceptual distinctiveness of real-world objects than on conceptual structure. These data provide evidence that VWM capacity for real-world objects depends more on perceptual information than on conceptual structure.
Adolescents and young adults’ concerns under stress, the COVID-19 pandemic: a Portuguese cross-sectional study
Authors: Silva Carlos Franclim , Beirão Daniel , Sá Luísa , Santos Paulo
Published: October 2023

Background

Adolescents and young adults are a critical target regarding reducing healthrisk behaviors’ adoption, particularly in a stressful context such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Surveying their perceptions and behavioral changes may lead to a revised health promotion approach.

Objectives

This study aims to describe adolescents’ and young adults’ early reactions to a stressful event, the COVID-19 pandemic, characterizing their social determinants and preferences, such as sources of information, experienced symptoms, habits, and main concerns regarding themselves, their relatives, and the community. We intended to explore the association of their concerns and significant determinants such as age, gender, education, source of information, feelings of fear, prospecting the implications of communication, and individual and social determinants in managing stressful events.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional, population-based, self-report survey of 3,898 individuals aged between 16 and 24  years from Portugal.

Results

The main concerns about COVID-19 were the possibility of transmitting to someone and permanent social changes. Our findings present significant differences according to gender, education, age, and expressing fear.

Conclusion

The pandemic deteriorated baseline community inequalities. Young people appreciate official information and are available to contribute to society’s safety. However, valuing official information is associated with deeper expressed concerns. Therefore, official information should include strategies to reach young people, promote healthier choices, and avoid distress and disinformation.
Differences in parent and youth perceived neighborhood threat on nucleus accumbens-frontoparietal network resting state connectivity and alcohol sipping in children enrolled in the ABCD study
Authors: Harris Julia C. , Liuzzi Michael T. , Malames Bo A. , Larson Christine L. , Lisdahl Krista M.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Evidence has shown neighborhood threat (NT) as a social driver of emotional and brain development. Few studies have examined the relationship between NT and neural function. Altered functional connectivity in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) with the frontoparietal network (FPN) has been implicated in the development of substance use, however, little is known about perceived NT-related brain function or downstream alcohol sipping during early adolescence. This study examined the longitudinal relationship between youth and combined youth/parent perceived NT, resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) of the NAcc-FPN, and alcohol sipping behavior during late childhood and preadolescence.

Methods

This study used data (N = 7,744) from baseline to 2-year follow-up (FU) of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (ABCD; Release 4.0). Relationships between youth and combined youth/parent perceive NT, alcohol sipping (baseline to two-year FU), and NAcc-FPN (left/right) connectivity, adjusting for demographics, family/peer history of alcohol use, parental monitoring and warmth, externalizing symptoms, and site, were examined in a mediation model via PROCESS in R.

Results

Greater youth-reported NT at baseline was significantly associated with lower RSFC between the right (but not left) NAcc-FPN holding covariates constant (R2 = 0.01, B = −0.0019 (unstandardized), F (12, 7,731) = 8.649, p = 0.0087) and increased odds of alcohol sipping at baseline up to the two-year FU (direct effect = 0.0731, 95% CI = 0.0196, 0.1267). RSFC between the right NAcc-FPN did not significantly predict alcohol sipping at the two-year FU (b = −0.0213, SE = 0.42349, p = 0.9599; 95% CI = −0.8086, 0.8512). No significant relationships were observed for combined youth/parent report predicting alcohol sipping or NAcc-FPN connectivity.

Conclusion

Findings suggest notable reporting differences in NT. Combined youth/parent report did not reveal significant findings; youth perceived NT was related to increased likelihood of alcohol sipping and lower neural connectivity between the right NAcc-FPN during late childhood and early adolescence. NT context – and source of reporting – may be crucial in examining links with downstream neuronal function and health behaviors. Future research should investigate reward processing and threat as the cohort ages into later adolescence.
Link between the skin and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Man Mao-Qiang , Yang Shuyun , Mauro Theodora M. , Zhang Guoqiang , Zhu Tingting
Published: October 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurological disorder. Although the etiologies of ASD have been widely speculated, evidence also supports the pathogenic role of cutaneous inflammation in autism. The prevalence of ASD is higher in individuals with inflammatory dermatoses than in those without inflammatory diseases. Anti-inflammation therapy alleviates symptoms of ASD. Recent studies suggest a link between epidermal dysfunction and ASD. In the murine model, mice with ASD display epidermal dysfunction, accompanied by increased expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines in both the skin and the brain. Children with ASD, which develops in their early lifetime, also exhibit altered epidermal function. Interestingly, improvement in epidermal function alleviates some symptoms of ASD. This line of evidence suggests a pathogenic role of cutaneous dysfunction in ASD. Either an improvement in epidermal function or effective treatment of inflammatory dermatoses can be an alternative approach to the management of ASD. We summarize here the current evidence of the association between the skin and ASD.
Long-term impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on cardiorespiratory fitness: a meta-analysis
Authors: Chuatrakoon Busaba , Konghakote Supatcha , Sa-nguanmoo Piangkwan , Nantakool Sothida
Published: October 2023

Background

Despite surviving Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), its long-term impact is of concern. Low cardiorespiratory fitness is a strong predictor of all-cause mortality, and likely affected by multisystem impairments following COVID-19 infection. Accumulating evidence has identified the impact of COVID-19 on cardiorespiratory fitness level. However, the findings have been controversial. Conclusive evidence is still needed.

Objectives

This review aimed to systematically summarize and synthesize whether the SARS-CoV-2 infection diminishes cardiorespiratory fitness in COVID-19 survivors.

Design

The study design was a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

A search was carried out using PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase and the Cochrane Library, together with reference lists (searching from their inception to January 2023). Observational studies investigating the impact of COVID-19 on outcomes relevant to cardiorespiratory fitness (i.e., peak oxygen uptake) were included. Weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to identify a pooled effect estimate. Use of a random effects model was considered as the main method. Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was employed to determine the certainty of evidence. This meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42023393108).

Results

Seven eligible studies (4 cross-sectional, 2 cohort, and 1 case–control studies) involving 4,773 participants were included in this meta-analysis. A pooled effect estimates showed that patients in the surviving COVID-19 group had a significant reduction in peak oxygen uptake when compared to their counterparts in the non-COVID-19 group (WMD −6.70, 95%CI −9.34 to −4.06, low certainty). A subgroup analysis by age found that COVID-19 survivors in the young- to middle-aged and middle- to older-aged subgroups had significant reductions in peak oxygen uptake when compared to their counterparts in the non-COVID-19 group (WMD −5.31, 95%CI −7.69 to −2.94, low certainty; WMD −15.63, 95%CI −28.50 to −2.75, very low certainty, respectively). Subgroup analyses by symptom found that patients with moderate to severe symptoms in the surviving COVID-19 group had significantly lower peak oxygen uptake than their counterparts in the non-COVID-19 group (WMD −15.63, 95%CI −28.50 to −2.75, very low certainty).

Conclusion

The current meta-analysis concluded that patients in the COVID-19 survivors had poorer cardiorespiratory fitness than their counterparts in the non-COVID-19 group, but there is considerable uncertainty of evidence. Poorer cardiorespiratory fitness is likely to be more pronounced in COVID-19 survivors who are getting older and had severe symptoms, but it is uncertain whether such finding has a valuable in clinical context.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, CRD42023393108.
Four recommendations to tackle the complex reality of transdisciplinary, natural experiment research
Authors: Pearson Amber L. , Pfeiffer Karin A. , Buxton Rachel T. , Horton Teresa H. , Gardiner Joseph , Asana Ventra
Published: October 2023

Natural experiments are often used to study interventions in which randomization to control versus intervention conditions are impossible. Nature-based interventions (i.e., programs designed to increase human interaction with nature and improve human health) are commonly studied as natural experiments. We used a natural experiment design to explore the benefits of ecological rehabilitation of parks on biodiversity and resident health in low-income, minoritized neighborhoods in Detroit, MI. Given the complexities and interconnectedness of lived experiences, community needs, and ecological health, this research design has presented challenges. Based on our experiences, we pose four key recommendations for researchers and practitioners conducting natural experiments, nature-based interventions, and those working in low-income, minoritized neighborhoods. We use the explicit examples of challenges faced as rationale for these recommendations. The key recommendations are (1) Engage with community leaders; (2) Build a transdisciplinary team and work closely; (3) Examine privilege; and (4) Create a unified vision.
Optimizing internal control in public hospital supply chain: a game theory-based approach
Authors: Yu Zhihao
Published: October 2023

Objective

Our study aims to enhance the precision of internal control construction within public hospital supply chains and minimize the subjective bias influence. We have integrated the game theory combination weighting method into the design of internal control paths and based on this, developed a series of pioneering solutions. This innovative approach is anticipated to heighten the effectiveness and scientific rigor of the internal control design scheme within the supply chain.

Method

Firstly, we utilized literature review and expert interviews to delve into the key factors of public hospital supply chain internal control, forming an index system for public hospital supply chain internal control that aligns with current informatization requirements. Subsequently, we incorporated the Game Theory Combination Weighting Method into this study. By means of the Analytic Hierarchy Process and the Entropy Weighting Method we determined the subjective and objective weights of each index and obtained their comprehensive weights through the Game Theory Combination Weighting Method. Then, based on the analysis results, we designed a series of internal control construction schemes and implemented these schemes at Weifang Maternal and Child Health Hospital between 2019 and 2023. Finally, using the Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation Method to assess and compare the actual effects before and after the implementation of the schemes, thereby validating the effectiveness of the Game Theory Combination Weighting Method in the design of the internal control path of public hospital supply chains.

Results

The fuzzy comprehensive evaluation results for the years 2019 and 2023 demonstrated that after implementing our design schemes using the Game Theory Combination Weighting Method, the hospital’s satisfaction in aspects such as plan-side control, purchase-side control, asset-side control, expenditure business control, and contract management control has significantly improved.

Conclusion

Our research indicates that the Game Theory Combination Weighting Method is applicable to the path design of internal control links in public hospital supply chains. This method has effectively enhanced the targeted improvement of weak links within the construction of internal controls in the supply chain of public hospitals and is of great significance for improving the scientific nature of supply chain internal control management.
Socioeconomic status and quality of life among older adults with hypertension in rural Shandong, China: a mediating effect of social capital
Authors: Fu Yingjie , Zhang Shuo , Guo Xiaolei , Lu Zilong , Sun Xiaojie
Published: October 2023

Background

Improving the quality of life (QoL) of older adults is becoming an important global issue. However, very few studies have been focused on the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and QoL in older adults with hypertension. The purpose of this study is to investigate (a) the status of QoL and (b) the mediating effect of social capital in the relationship between SES and QoL, among rural older adults with hypertension in China.

Methods

Using multistage stratified random sampling, a face-to-face questionnaire survey was conducted among rural older adults with hypertension in Shandong province of China from June to July 2021. Three typical measures representing SES were used, namely, annual household income, educational level, and employment status. Individual social capital and QoL were assessed by the Resource Generator-China Scale (RG—China) and a 34-item simplified Patient Report Outcome (PRO)-specific scale for older adults with hypertension, respectively. A total of 950 rural older adults with hypertension were included in the analysis. The mediation model based on bootstrap analyses was employed to explore the relationship between SES and QoL and the mediating role of social capital in the SES-QoL nexus.

Results

The sampled rural older adults with hypertension had an upper-middle level of QoL, and the average score was 132.57 ± 19.40. SES was positively correlated with both QoL and individual social capital; individual social capital was significantly positively correlated with QoL. Controlling for sociodemographic variables, SES was still significantly associated with individual social capital (β = 0.140, P < 0.001), and the higher the individual social capital, the better QoL (β = 0.153, P < 0.001). Individual social capital played a partially mediating role in the association between SES and QoL (indirect effect = 0.021, 95% CI: 0.010–0.038), which accounted for 9.38% of the total effect.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that the effect of SES on QoL was partially mediated by individual social capital among rural older adults with hypertension in China. The government should pay more attention to the rural older hypertensive population with lower SES and strive to reduce the negative impact of poor SES on their QoL, based on effective strategies including improving their individual social capital.