bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-term effects of gastric bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy on high LDL cholesterol: The BASALTO randomized clinical trial
Authors: Benaiges David , Goday Albert , Casajoana Anna , Flores-Le Roux Juana A. , Fitó Montserrat , Pozo Oscar J. , Serra Carme , Pera Manuel , Llauradó Gemma , Climent Elisenda , Villatoro Montserrat , Lazaro Iolanda , Castañer Olga , Pedro-Botet Juan
Published: June 2024

Background

There has been a substantial increase in the use of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) to treat morbid obesity despite observational evidence demonstrating the superiority of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The main aim was to ascertain whether high LDL cholesterol levels should be considered when selecting the most appropriate surgical procedure for each patient (RYGB or SG).

Methods

In this single-center, randomized clinical trial using intention-to-treat analysis, 38 patients with severe obesity and elevated levels of LDL cholesterol were randomly assigned to undergo RYGB or SG. The primary outcome was LDL cholesterol remission at 12 months, defined as LDL cholesterol < 3.36 nmol/l without lipid-lowering medications. Secondary outcomes included changes in weight, other comorbidities, qualitative lipoprotein traits, cholesterol esters, glycoproteins, cholesterol absorption and synthesis metabolites and complications.

Results

Intention-to-treat analysis revealed that LDL cholesterol remission occurred in 66.6% of RYGB patients compared to 27.8% of SG patients (p = 0.019). Among patients completing follow-up, RYGB demonstrated superior remission (80.0% vs. 29.4%, p = 0.005). Exclusive benefits of RYGB included a reduction in large, medium, and small LDL particles. Cholesterol absorption markers showed differential behavior after both techniques: campesterol (Δ −15.2 µg/mg, 95% CI −30.2 to −0.1) decreased after RYGB, and sitosterol (Δ 21.1 µg/mg, 95% CI 0.9 to 41.2), cholestanol (Δ 30.6 µg/mg, 95% CI 14.8 to 57.9) and campesterol (Δ 18.4 µg/mg, 95% CI 4.4 to 32.3) increased after SG. No differences in weight loss, cholesterol esters, glycoproteins, cholesterol synthesis metabolites or postoperative complications were observed between techniques.

Conclusion

In conclusion, RYGB is superior to SG in terms of short-term of high LDL cholesterol remission. Furthermore, RYGB also led to a greater improvement in lipoprotein parameters that confer an atherogenic profile. Therefore, the presence of elevated levels of LDL cholesterol should be considered when determining the optimal bariatric surgery procedure for each patient.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov number, NCT03975478).

Graphical abstract
Microbial metagenomic shifts in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia during induction therapy and predictive biomarkers for infection
Authors: Wang Huidi , Zhang Yajie , Zhou Qianyi , Yu Lihua , Fu Jingxiang , Lin Danna , Huang Lulu , Lai Xiaorong , Wu Li , Zhang Jingxin , Zi Juan , Liao Xu , Huang Siying , Xie Yugu , He Yan , Yang Lihua
Published: June 2024

Background

Emerging evidence has indicated a link between the gut microbiota and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). However, the acute changes in gut microbiota during chemotherapy and the predictive value of baseline gut microbiota in infectious complication remain largely unknown.

Methods

Faecal samples (n = 126) from children with ALL (n = 49) undergoing induction chemotherapy were collected at three timepoints, i.e., initiation of chemotherapy (baseline, T0), 7 days (T1) and 33 days (T2) after initiation of chemotherapy. Gut microbiome profile was performed via metagenomic shotgun sequencing. The bioBakery3 pipeline (Kneaddata, Metaphlan 3 and HUMAnN) was performed to assign taxonomy and functional annotations. Gut microbiome at T0 were used to predict infection during chemotherapy.

Results

The microbial diversities and composition changed significantly during chemotherapy, with Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bifidobacterium longum being the most prominent species. The microbial metabolic pathways were also significantly altered during chemotherapy, including the pathway of pyruvate fermentation to acetate and lactate, and assimilatory sulfate reduction pathway. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) models based on Bifidobacterium longum at T0 could predict infectious complications during the first month of chemotherapy with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.720.

Conclusions

Our study provides new insights into the acute changes in microbial and functional characteristics in children with ALL during chemotherapy. The baseline gut microbiota could be potential biomarkers for infections during chemotherapy.

Trial registration

The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University (2021-KY-171-01) and registered on http://www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2200065406, Registration Date: November 4, 2022).
Manganese-derived biomaterials for tumor diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Huang Peiying , Tang Qinglai , Li Mengmeng , Yang Qian , Zhang Yuming , Lei Lanjie , Li Shisheng
Published: June 2024

Manganese (Mn) is widely recognized owing to its low cost, non-toxic nature, and versatile oxidation states, leading to the emergence of various Mn-based nanomaterials with applications across diverse fields, particularly in tumor diagnosis and therapy. Systematic reviews specifically addressing the tumor diagnosis and therapy aspects of Mn-derived biomaterials are lacking. This review comprehensively explores the physicochemical characteristics and synthesis methods of Mn-derived biomaterials, emphasizing their role in tumor diagnostics, including magnetic resonance imaging, photoacoustic and photothermal imaging, ultrasound imaging, multimodal imaging, and biodetection. Moreover, the advantages of Mn-based materials in tumor treatment applications are discussed, including drug delivery, tumor microenvironment regulation, synergistic photothermal, photodynamic, and chemodynamic therapies, tumor immunotherapy, and imaging-guided therapy. The review concludes by providing insights into the current landscape and future directions for Mn-driven advancements in the field, serving as a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians.
Pandemic preparedness improves national-level SARS-CoV-2 infection and mortality data completeness: a cross-country ecologic analysis
Authors: Ledesma Jorge R. , Papanicolas Irene , Stoto Michael A. , Chrysanthopoulou Stavroula A. , Isaac Christopher R. , Lurie Mark N. , Nuzzo Jennifer B.
Published: June 2024

Background

Heterogeneity in national SARS-CoV-2 infection surveillance capabilities may compromise global enumeration and tracking of COVID-19 cases and deaths and bias analyses of the pandemic’s tolls. Taking account of heterogeneity in data completeness may thus help clarify analyses of the relationship between COVID-19 outcomes and standard preparedness measures.

Methods

We examined country-level associations of pandemic preparedness capacities inventories, from the Global Health Security (GHS) Index and Joint External Evaluation (JEE), on SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 death data completion rates adjusted for income. Analyses were stratified by 100, 100–300, 300–500, and 500–700 days after the first reported case in each country. We subsequently reevaluated the relationship of pandemic preparedness on SARS-CoV-2 infection and age-standardized COVID-19 death rates adjusted for cross-country differentials in data completeness during the pre-vaccine era.

Results

Every 10% increase in the GHS Index was associated with a 14.9% (95% confidence interval 8.34–21.8%) increase in SARS-CoV-2 infection completion rate and a 10.6% (5.91–15.4%) increase in the death completion rate during the entire observation period. Disease prevention (infections: β = 1.08 [1.05–1.10], deaths: β = 1.05 [1.04–1.07]), detection (infections: β = 1.04 [1.01–1.06], deaths: β = 1.03 [1.01–1.05]), response (infections: β = 1.06 [1.00–1.13], deaths: β = 1.05 [1.00–1.10]), health system (infections: β = 1.06 [1.03–1.10], deaths: β = 1.05 [1.03–1.07]), and risk environment (infections: β = 1.27 [1.15–1.41], deaths: β = 1.15 [1.08–1.23]) were associated with both data completeness outcomes. Effect sizes of GHS Index on infection completion (Low income: β = 1.18 [1.04–1.34], Lower Middle income: β = 1.41 [1.16–1.71]) and death completion rates (Low income: β = 1.19 [1.09–1.31], Lower Middle income: β = 1.25 [1.10–1.43]) were largest in LMICs. After adjustment for cross-country differences in data completeness, each 10% increase in the GHS Index was associated with a 13.5% (4.80–21.4%) decrease in SARS-CoV-2 infection rate at 100 days and a 9.10 (1.07–16.5%) decrease at 300 days. For age-standardized COVID-19 death rates, each 10% increase in the GHS Index was with a 15.7% (5.19–25.0%) decrease at 100 days and a 10.3% (− 0.00–19.5%) decrease at 300 days.

Conclusions

Results support the pre-pandemic hypothesis that countries with greater pandemic preparedness capacities have larger SARS-CoV-2 infection and mortality data completeness rates and lower COVID-19 disease burdens. More high-quality data of COVID-19 impact based on direct measurement are needed.
The prognostic value of ubiquitin/ubiquitin-like-related genes along with immune cell infiltration and clinicopathological features in osteosarcoma
Authors: Wen Jian , Wan Lijia , Chen Wenming , Dong Xieping
Published: June 2024

Background

Ubiquitin/ubiquitin-like (Ub/UBL)-related genes have been reported to be associated with the survival of osteosarcoma patients but have not yet been systematically explored.

Methods

The prognostic value of Ub/UBL-related genes, immune cell infiltration and clinicopathological features of patients were explored by Cox and LASSO regression analyses. A prognostic model was established and then validated in the GSE21257 dataset. The differential expression of hub genes in osteosarcoma was confirmed by qRT-PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Tripartite Motif Containing 8 (TRIM8) and Ubiquitin Like With PHD And Ring Finger Domains 2 (UHRF2) were screened as genes with prognostic value in osteosarcoma. Kaplan–Meier analysis and scatter plots indicated that patients in the high gene significance score group tended to have a worse prognosis. The concordance index, calibration analysis and receiver operating characteristic analysis suggested that the model had good prediction accuracy and high sensitivity and specificity. Decision curve analysis revealed that patients could obtain greater net benefit from this model. Functional analyses of the differentially expressed genes indicated that they were involved in important functions and pathways. TRIM8 and UHRF2 were confirmed to be highly expressed in osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues.

Conclusions

TRIM8 and UHRF2 are potential prognostic genes in osteosarcoma, and these results provide insights into the roles of these genes and their implications for patient outcomes.
Right ventricle pierced by a traditional sharp hair straightener: a case report
Authors: Sawadogo Adama , Severgnini Gaia , Bazongo Moussa , Konaté Lassina , Belem Farid Pingwindé , Naré Youssouf , Sanou Alain , Perlangeli Silvia , Fénoglio Lorena , Pilozzi Alberto , Roberto Maurizio , Zanobini Marco
Published: June 2024

The case presents a traumatic ventricular perforation of a girl, accidentally felt on a sharp instrument. The uniqueness of the case presented is due to the very high infrequency of injuries with this type of sharp object. The 7-year-old girl was transported to the hospital after accidentally falling on a sharp instrument. The child had no signs of heart failure. On opening the chest, it was found that the metal object was lodged in the right ventricle. Quickly proceeded to remove the object and suture the entry hole. After a short hospitalization, the child was discharged completely cured.
β-elemene promotes microglial M2-like polarization against ischemic stroke via AKT/mTOR signaling axis-mediated autophagy
Authors: Zhao Qiong , Chen Lu , Zhang Xin , Yang Hua , Li Yi , Li Ping
Published: June 2024

Background

Resident microglia- and peripheric macrophage-mediated neuroinflammation plays a predominant role in the occurrence and development of ischemic stroke. Microglia undergo polarization to M1/M2-like phenotype under stress stimulation, which mediates intracellular inflammatory response. β-elemene is a natural sesquiterpene and possesses potent anti-inflammatory activity. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory efficacy and mechanism of β-elemene in ischemic stroke from the perspective of balancing microglia M1/M2-like polarization.

Methods

The middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model and photothrombotic stroke model were established to explore the regulation effect of β-elemene on the cerebral ischemic injury. The LPS and IFN-γ stimulated BV-2 cells were used to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects and potential mechanism of β-elemene regulating M1/M2-like polarization in vitro.

Results

In C57BL/6 J mice subjected to MCAO model and photothrombotic stroke model, β-elemene attenuated neurological deficit, reduced the infarction volume and neuroinflammation, thus improving ischemic stroke injury. β-elemene promoted the phenotype transformation of microglia from M1-like to M2-like, which prevented neurons from oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) injury by inhibiting inflammatory factor release, thereby reducing neuronal apoptosis. Mechanically, β-elemene prevented the activation of TLR4/NF-κΒ and MAPK signaling pathway and increased AKT/mTOR mediated-autophagy, thereby promoting M2-like polarization of microglia.

Conclusions

These results indicated that β-elemene improved cerebral ischemic injury and promoted the transformation of microglia phenotype from M1-like to M2-like, at least in part, through AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy. This study demonstrated that β-elemene might serve as a promising drug for alleviating ischemic stroke injury.
Shaoyao Decoction reduced T lymphocyte activation by regulating of intestinal flora and 5-hydroxytryptamine metabolism in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Zhen Jianhua , Li Yini , Zhang Yunan , Zhou Yali , Zhao Lu , Huang Guangrui , Xu Anlong
Published: June 2024

Background

Shaoyao Decoction (SYD) is a widely recognized herbal formula utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of diarrhea. Although it has demonstrated significant effectiveness in clinical practice for treating ulcerative colitis, the precise mechanisms by which it operates remain largely elusive.

Methods

The active ingredients of SYD were obtained by ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), which were used to explore the potential pharmacological mechanism based on TCMSP (Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform) and PANTHER (Protein Analysis Through Evolutionary Relationships) classification system. In a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis, mRNA sequencing, 16S rDNA sequencing and targeted metabolomics techniques were used to elucidate the mechanisms of SYD, and immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to test the key targets. In addition, QGP-1 and H9 cells were performed to validate the discoveries from the animal experiments.

Results

In the mouse model of DSS-induced colitis, SYD effectively alleviated symptoms such as bloody stool, tissue damage, inflammation, intestinal flora dysbiosis and abnormal gene expression. Analyses of both differential expressed genes in colonic tissue and predicted 16S rDNA genes, as well as the analyses of targeted genes from TCMSP based on the active ingredients in UPLC-MS/MS of SYD, uncovered the enrichment of pathways involved in the biosynthesis and degredation of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). Interestingly, SYD suppressed the relative abundance of key genes in 5-HT synthesis, Tph1(Tryptophan hydroxylase 1) and Ddc (Dopa decarboxylase), in faeces from DSS-induced mice, leading to a reduction in the concentration of fecal 5-HT. Moreover, SYD augmented the production of butyric acid. Subsequently, increasing butyric acid influenced the metabolism of 5-HT in the organism through G protein-coupled receptor 43 by impeding its synthesis, facilitating its transport and degredation. These findings were additionally corroborated in a model utilizing enterochromaffin cell (QGP-1 cells). Furthermore, reduced levels of 5-HT hindered the activation of T lymphocytes (H9 cells) via the PKC (Protein kinase C) and NF-κB (Nuclear factor kappa-B) signaling pathways, by means of HTR1A (5-HT receptor 1A) and HTR3 (5-HT receptor 3). Additionally, diminished secretion of 5-HT resulted in reduced secretion of associated cytokines, thereby alleviating inflammation in the colon.

Conclusion

Through modulation of T lymphocyte activation mediated by 5-HT metabolism in the local colon via the intestinal flora and its metabolite, SYD effectively mitigated colonic inflammation in DSS-induced mice.
High prevalence of exon-13 variants in USH2A-related retinal dystrophies in Taiwanese population
Authors: Lin Yu-Wei , Huang Yu-Shu , Lin Chien-Yu , Lin Chao-Wen , Wu Chen-Chi , Yang Chang-Hao , Yang Chung-May , Chen Pei-Lung , Chen Ta-Ching
Published: June 2024

Background

Biallelic pathogenic variants in USH2A lead to Usher syndrome or non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa, and shown to have geographical and ethnical distribution in previous studies. This study provided a deeper understanding of the detailed clinical features using multimodal imaging, genetic spectrum, and genotype–phenotype correlations of USH2A-related retinal dystrophies in Taiwan.

Results

In our cohort, the mean age at first visit was 47.66 ± 13.54 years, and the mean age at symptom onset, which was referred to the onset of nyctalopia and/or visual field constriction, was 31.21 ± 15.24 years. Among the variants identified, 23 (50%) were missense, 10 (22%) were splicing variants, 8 (17%) were nonsense, and 5 (11%) were frameshift mutations. The most predominant variant was c.2802T>G, which accounted for 21% of patients, and was located in exon 13. Patients with truncated alleles had significantly earlier symptom onset and seemly poorer disease progression regarding visual acuity, ellipsoid zone line length, and hypofluorescent lesions in the macula than those who had the complete gene. However, the clinical presentation revealed similar progression between patients with and without the c.2802T>G variant. During long-term follow-up, the patients had different ellipsoid zone line progression rates and were almost evenly distributed in the fast, moderate, and slow progression subgroups. Although a younger onset age and a smaller baseline intact macular area was observed in the fast progression subgroup, the results showed no significant difference.

Conclusions

This is the first cohort study to provide detailed genetic and longitudinal clinical analyses of patients with USH2A-related retinal dystrophies in Taiwan. The mutated allele frequency in exon 13 was high in Taiwan due to the predominant c.2802T>G variant. Moreover, truncated variants greatly impacted disease progression and determined the length of therapeutic windows. These findings provide insight into the characteristics of candidates for future gene therapies.
Effects of Pycnogenol® in people with post-COVID-19 condition (PYCNOVID): study protocol for a single-center, placebo controlled, quadruple-blind, randomized trial
Authors: Radtke Thomas , Künzi Lisa , Kopp Julia , Rasi Manuela , Braun Julia , Zens Kyra D. , Winter Babette , Anagnostopoulos Alexia , Puhan Milo A. , Fehr Jan S.
Published: June 2024

Background

A significant proportion of the global population has been infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at some point since the onset of the pandemic. Although most individuals who develop coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) recover without complications, about 6% have persistent symptoms, referred to as post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). Intervention studies investigating treatments that potentially alleviate PCC-related symptoms and thus aim to mitigate the global public health burden and healthcare costs linked to PCC are desperately needed. The PYCNOVID trial investigates the effects of Pycnogenol®, a French maritime pine bark extract with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, versus placebo on patient-reported health status in people with PCC.

Methods

This is a single-center, placebo-controlled, quadruple blind, randomized trial. We aim to randomly assign 150 individuals with PCC (1:1 ratio) to receive either 200 mg Pycnogenol® or placebo daily for 12 weeks. Randomization is stratified for duration of PCC symptoms (≤ 6 months versus > 6 months) and presence of symptomatic chronic disease(s). The primary endpoint is perceived health status at 12 weeks (EuroQol—Visual Analogue Scale) adjusted for baseline values and stratification factors. Secondary endpoints include change in self-reported PCC symptoms, health-related quality of life, symptoms of depression and anxiety, cognitive function, functional exercise capacity, physical activity measured with accelerometry, and blood biomarkers for endothelial health, inflammation, coagulation, platelet function, and oxidative stress. Investigators, study participants, outcome assessors, and data analysts are blinded regarding the intervention assignment. Individuals with PCC were involved in the design of this study.

Discussion

This is the first trial to investigate the effects of Pycnogenol® versus placebo on patient-reported health status in people with PCC. Should the trial proof clinical effectiveness, Pycnogenol® may serve as a therapeutic approach to mitigate symptoms associated with PCC.

Trial registration

The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. :NCT05890534, June 6, 2023.
Interspecies co-feeding transmission of Powassan virus between a native tick, Ixodes scapularis, and the invasive East Asian tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis
Authors: Obellianne Clemence , Norman Parker D. , Esteves Eliane , Hermance Meghan E.
Published: June 2024

Background

Powassan virus, a North American tick-borne flavivirus, can cause severe neuroinvasive disease in humans. While Ixodes scapularis are the primary vectors of Powassan virus lineage II (POWV II), also known as deer tick virus, recent laboratory vector competence studies showed that other genera of ticks can horizontally and vertically transmit POWV II. One such tick is the Haemaphysalis longicornis, an invasive species from East Asia that recently established populations in the eastern USA and already shares overlapping geographic range with native vector species such as I. scapularis. Reports of invasive H. longicornis feeding concurrently with native I. scapularis on multiple sampled hosts highlight the potential for interspecies co-feeding transmission of POWV II. Given the absence of a clearly defined vertebrate reservoir host for POWV II, it is possible that this virus is sustained in transmission foci via nonviremic transmission between ticks co-feeding on the same vertebrate host. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether uninfected H. longicornis co-feeding in close proximity to POWV II-infected I. scapularis can acquire POWV independent of host viremia.

Methods

Using an in vivo tick transmission model, I. scapularis females infected with POWV II (“donors”) were co-fed on mice with uninfected H. longicornis larvae and nymphs (“recipients”). The donor and recipient ticks were infested on mice in various sequences, and mouse infection status was monitored by temporal screening of blood for POWV II RNA via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (q-RT-PCR).

Results

The prevalence of POWV II RNA was highest in recipient H. longicornis that fed on viremic mice. However, nonviremic mice were also able to support co-feeding transmission of POWV, as demonstrated by the detection of viral RNA in multiple H. longicornis dispersed across different mice. Detection of viral RNA at the skin site of tick feeding but not at distal skin sites indicates that a localized skin infection facilitates transmission of POWV between donor and recipient ticks co-feeding in close proximity.

Conclusions

This is the first report examining transmission of POWV between co-feeding ticks. Against the backdrop of multiple unknowns related to POWV ecology, findings from this study provide insight on possible mechanisms by which POWV could be maintained in nature.

Graphical Abstract
Lower levels of plasma syndecan-4 are associated with loss of body weight and fat-free mass after bariatric surgery
Authors: Martins Catia , Aukan Marthe Isaksen , De Luca Maria
Published: June 2024

Objective

Bariatric surgery induces a significant loss of both fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM). The proteoglycan receptor syndecan-4 (SDC4) plays a crucial role in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle functions. Thus, this study was performed (i) to assess plasma SDC4 levels after both Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) surgeries, and (ii) to explore potential associations with changes in body composition variables.

Results

Twenty-six patients (17 females) with severe obesity underwent SG (n = 13) or RYGB (n = 13) and were followed up to 1 year (1Y). Body weight, FM, FFM, and SCD4 were measured at baseline (BL), and at week 11 (W11) and 1Y after surgery. Independently of procedure, there was a significant body weight loss at W11, with an average FM and FFM reduction of 13.7 ± 0.6 kg and 5.3 ± 0.5 kg, respectively. Participants continued to lose weight afterwards, with a total weigth loss of 38.2 ± 1.5 kg at 1Y. No associations were found at BL between SDC4 levels and any anthropometric variable; however, SDC4 levels were lower than BL at both W11 and 1Y, independently of type of surgery. Additionally, changes in SDC4 between BL and 1Y were positively correlated with weight and FFM loss during the same period.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04051190 on 09/08/2019.
Antioxidant capacity of Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P. Kumm influenced by growth substrates
Authors: Gebru Hailu , Faye Gezahegn , Belete Tolosa
Published: June 2024

Functional constituents are the main concern in food production and consumption. Because foods rich in functional constituents have antioxidant capacity and are important in keeping consumers healthy. Pleurotus ostreatus is among foods rich in functional constituents. However, its functional constituents are affected by various factors. This study compared the antioxidant capacity of P. ostreatus grown on different substrates: straws of tef (Trt1), barley (Trt2), and wheat (Trt3), husks of faba bean (Trt4), and field pea (Trt5), sawdust (Trt6), and the mixture of the above with 1:1 w/w (Trt7). Trt7 had significantly higher radical scavenging activity (RSA) (73.27%), vitamin C (10.61 mg/100 g), and vitamin D (4.92 mg/100 g) compared to other treatments. Whereas the lowest values of RSA (44.24%), vitamin C (5.39 mg/100 g), and vitamin D (1.21 mg/100 g) were found in Trt2. The results indicated that mixed substrate may be a good growth substrate for functionally beneficial P. ostreatus and could be a promising source of natural antioxidants.
Title and abstract screening for literature reviews using large language models: an exploratory study in the biomedical domain
Authors: Dennstädt Fabio , Zink Johannes , Putora Paul Martin , Hastings Janna , Cihoric Nikola
Published: June 2024

Background

Systematically screening published literature to determine the relevant publications to synthesize in a review is a time-consuming and difficult task. Large language models (LLMs) are an emerging technology with promising capabilities for the automation of language-related tasks that may be useful for such a purpose.

Methods

LLMs were used as part of an automated system to evaluate the relevance of publications to a certain topic based on defined criteria and based on the title and abstract of each publication. A Python script was created to generate structured prompts consisting of text strings for instruction, title, abstract, and relevant criteria to be provided to an LLM. The relevance of a publication was evaluated by the LLM on a Likert scale (low relevance to high relevance). By specifying a threshold, different classifiers for inclusion/exclusion of publications could then be defined. The approach was used with four different openly available LLMs on ten published data sets of biomedical literature reviews and on a newly human-created data set for a hypothetical new systematic literature review.

Results

The performance of the classifiers varied depending on the LLM being used and on the data set analyzed. Regarding sensitivity/specificity, the classifiers yielded 94.48%/31.78% for the FlanT5 model, 97.58%/19.12% for the OpenHermes-NeuralChat model, 81.93%/75.19% for the Mixtral model and 97.58%/38.34% for the Platypus 2 model on the ten published data sets. The same classifiers yielded 100% sensitivity at a specificity of 12.58%, 4.54%, 62.47%, and 24.74% on the newly created data set. Changing the standard settings of the approach (minor adaption of instruction prompt and/or changing the range of the Likert scale from 1–5 to 1–10) had a considerable impact on the performance.

Conclusions

LLMs can be used to evaluate the relevance of scientific publications to a certain review topic and classifiers based on such an approach show some promising results. To date, little is known about how well such systems would perform if used prospectively when conducting systematic literature reviews and what further implications this might have. However, it is likely that in the future researchers will increasingly use LLMs for evaluating and classifying scientific publications.
Hypotension prediction index for prevention of intraoperative hypotension in patients undergoing general anesthesia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lai Chih-Jun , Cheng Ya-Jung , Han Yin-Yi , Hsiao Po-Ni , Lin Pei-Lin , Chiu Ching-Tang , Lee Jang-Ming , Tien Yu-Wen , Chien Kuo-Liong
Published: June 2024

Background

Intraoperative hypotension is a common side effect of general anesthesia. Here we examined whether the Hypotension Prediction Index (HPI), a novel warning system, reduces the severity and duration of intraoperative hypotension during general anesthesia.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary referral hospital. We enrolled patients undergoing general anesthesia with invasive arterial monitoring. Patients were randomized 1:1 either to receive hemodynamic management with HPI guidance (intervention) or standard of care (control) treatment. Intraoperative hypotension treatment was initiated at HPI > 85 (intervention) or mean arterial pressure (MAP) < 65 mmHg (control). The primary outcome was hypotension severity, defined as a time-weighted average (TWA) MAP < 65 mmHg. Secondary outcomes were TWA MAP < 60 and < 55 mmHg.

Results

Of the 60 patients who completed the study, 30 were in the intervention group and 30 in the control group. The patients’ median age was 62 years, and 48 of them were male. The median duration of surgery was 490 min. The median MAP before surgery presented no significant difference between the two groups. The intervention group showed significantly lower median TWA MAP < 65 mmHg than the control group (0.02 [0.003, 0.08] vs. 0.37 [0.20, 0.58], P < 0.001). Findings were similar for TWA MAP < 60 mmHg and < 55 mmHg. The median MAP during surgery was significantly higher in the intervention group than that in the control group (87.54 mmHg vs. 77.92 mmHg, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

HPI guidance appears to be effective in preventing intraoperative hypotension during general anesthesia. Further investigation is needed to assess the impact of HPI on patient outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04966364); 202105065RINA; Date of registration: July 19, 2021; The recruitment date of the first patient: July 22, 2021.
How does the consecutive use of intraoral scanners affect musculoskeletal health? A preliminary clinical study
Authors: Son KeunBaDa , Lee Ji-Min , Kim Jin-Wook , Jin Myoung-Uk , Lee Kyu-Bok
Published: June 2024

Background

Minimizing muscle strain and reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders associated with intraoral scanner (IOS) usage require ergonomic awareness, device selection, and workplace adjustments in dental practice. This preliminary clinical study aimed to simulate intraoral scanning tasks using wired and wireless IOSs and assess muscle activation and fatigue for both types.

Materials and methods

Fourteen participants performed intraoral scanning tasks using wired and wireless IOSs (i700; MEDIT), with weights of 280 g and 328 g, respectively. The same computer system and software conditions were maintained for both groups (N = 14 per IOS group). Electrodes were placed on arm, neck, and shoulder muscles, and maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was measured. Surface electromyography (EMG) was performed during the simulation, and EMG values were normalized using MVC. The root mean square EMG (%MVC) and muscle fatigue (%) values were calculated. Statistical comparisons were performed using the Mann–Whitney U and Friedman tests, with the Bonferroni adjustment for multiple comparisons (α = 0.05).

Results

Arm (flexor digitorum superficialis) and neck muscles (left sternocleidomastoid and left splenius capitis) showed significantly higher EMG values with wireless IOS (P < 0.05). The neck (left sternocleidomastoid and right levator scapulae) and shoulder muscles (right trapezius descendens) demonstrated significantly higher muscle fatigue with wireless IOS (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The consecutive use of heavier wireless IOS may increase the risk of muscle activation and fatigue in certain muscles, which may have clinical implications for dentists in terms of ergonomics and musculoskeletal health.
The fight against disinformation and its consequences: measuring the impact of “Russia state-affiliated media” on Twitter
Authors: Aguerri Jesús C. , Santisteban Mario , Miró-Llinares Fernando
Published: June 2024

On February 28th, shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24th, Twitter announced the expansion of its labelling policy for “Russia state-affiliated media”, in order to address disinformation in favour of the Russian government.. While this ‘soft’ approach does not include the removal of content, it entails issues for freedom of expression and information. This article investigates the consequences of this labelling policy for the range and impact of accounts labelled “Russia state-affiliated media” during the Ukrainian war. Using an iterative detection method, a total of 90 accounts of both media outlets and individual journalists with this label were identified. The analysis of these accounts’ information and timeline, as well as the comparison of the impact of their tweets before and after February 28th with an ARIMA model, strongly suggests, that this policy, despite its limited scope, could have contributed to a reduction in the impact of the sampled tweets, among other concurrent events. These results provide empirical evidence to guide critical reflection on this content moderation policy.
Global outreach and networking promotion to accelerate tropical diseases elimination
Authors: Lv Shan , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: June 2024

Cooperation and networking are powerful tools in the combating against tropical diseases. Cooperation on a global scale is essential due to the transboundary nature of tropical diseases. Networking plays a pivotal role in facilitating such cooperation. Both cooperation and networking can foster innovation in disease control programmes. Collaborative research can lead to the development of new drugs and vaccines, while shared surveillance data can enable the early detection and control of disease epidemics. Therefore, consensus of cooperation and networking has been reached during the 7th Symposium on Surveillance-Response Systems Leading to Tropical Diseases Elimination, which reflected in the two documents, i.e., Consensus for Transboundary Tropical Diseases Control, and Action Consensus of the Network of WHO Collaborating Centres Related to NTDs. These documents will improve the efforts in the fighting against tropical diseases through collective actions to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Graphical Abstract
The research landscape of bipolar disorder in Germany: productive, but underfunded
Authors: Eckart Cindy , Reif Andreas
Published: June 2024

Background

The recurrent mental illness bipolar disorder is a major burden on the healthcare system, which underlines the importance of research into this disease. Germany is one of the most productive countries in this research activity. This bibliometric analysis aims to outline the social and conceptual structure of the German research landscape on bipolar disorder over the last decade. Furthermore, we provide a short overview over current public funding.

Results

Concerning the social structure, most of the German publications were collaboration projects, both with a national but also international orientation, in the latter case predominantly with countries of the global North. Analysis of the conceptual structure of German research activity identified psychiatric genetics, early recognition of bipolar disorder, neuroimaging, and pharmacological interventions as important topics within the field. In the context of a survey, only few publicly funded research projects were reported, many of which did not exclusively investigate bipolar disorder but followed a transdiagnostic approach.

Conclusions

Our bibliometric analysis revealed internationally well-networked German research activities on bipolar disorder. In stark contrast to its high prevalence and correspondingly high financial burden to the healthcare system, current grant support for research on this illness is strikingly low, particularly concerning the development of novel treatments.
Assessment of the impact of social media addiction on psychosocial behaviour like depression, stress, and anxiety in working professionals
Authors: Jahagirdar Vaishnavi , Sequeira Lenisha Ashlyn , Kinattingal Nabeel , Roohi Tamsheel Fatima , Alshehri Sultan , Shakeel Faiyaz , Mehdi Seema
Published: June 2024

Objective

Social media (SM), with its addictive nature and the accompanying psychosocial challenges such as stress, anxiety, and depression, is the primary factor exacerbating mental health problems and adversely impacting individuals’ wellbeing. Our study’s goal was to determine how SM affects employees’ psychosocial behaviours and assess the various factors that contributed to the employee’s excessive use of SM.

Methods

A cross-sectional correlational analysis was conducted. Using a relevant questionnaire on employees, the study was assessed to establish the relationship or association between SM addiction and psychosocial disorders like depression, anxiety, and stress. 200 people with a minimum age of 24 were enrolled in the study. The questionnaire contained the social networking addiction scale (SNAS) and the depression, anxiety, and stress-21 (DASS-21) scales; the data were statistically assessed.

Results

The association between SM addiction and psychosocial behaviours has been examined using statistical tools including descriptive statistics and the Chi-square analysis. SM addiction has a strong, statistically significant correlation with depression (p = 0.001), stress (p = 0.001), and anxiety (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

This study discovered a connection between SM use and depression, stress, and anxiety among working employees, raising questions regarding worries about overuse and addiction to SM. Various factors influencing excessive usage included revealed that employees also majorly over used SM for entertainment, boredom avoidance, constant knowledge sharing, and relationship-building.
The space of rules and rules of space: reflecting on local ordinances during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: De Franco Anita , Pacchi Carolina
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the role of the spatial dimension in the formulation of pandemic rules in Italy, with a specific focus on the municipal ordinances enacted in Milan. The study conducts a critical review of multidisciplinary literature, which often marginalises the significance of spatial dynamics in the development of (pandemic) regulatory frameworks, relegating “space” to a peripheral rather than central concern. This research proposes an analytical framework to evaluate spatial rules based on key thematic categories, with reference to the application and structural attributes of pandemic regulations. The article also discusses the practical integration of spatial dimensions into regulatory design, emphasising the imperative of acknowledging and engaging with unique spatial characteristics in order to enhance the efficacy of legal and policy interventions.
Increase in wasteosomes (corpora amylacea) in frontotemporal lobar degeneration with specific detection of tau, TDP-43 and FUS pathology
Authors: Alsina Raquel , Riba Marta , Pérez-Millan Agnès , Borrego-Écija Sergi , Aldecoa Iban , Romera Clara , Balasa Mircea , Antonell Anna , Lladó Albert , Compta Yaroslau , del Valle Jaume , Sánchez-Valle Raquel , Pelegrí Carme , Molina-Porcel Laura , Vilaplana Jordi
Published: June 2024

Wasteosomes (or corpora amylacea) are polyglucosan bodies that appear in the human brain with aging and in some neurodegenerative diseases, and have been suggested to have a potential role in a nervous system cleaning mechanism. Despite previous studies in several neurodegenerative disorders, their status in frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) remains unexplored. Our study aims to characterize wasteosomes in the three primary FTLD proteinopathies, assessing frequency, distribution, protein detection, and association with aging or disease duration. Wasteosome scores were obtained in various brain regions from 124 post-mortem diagnosed sporadic FTLD patients, including 75 participants with tau (FTLD-tau), 42 with TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (FTLD-TDP), and 7 with Fused in Sarcoma (FTLD-FUS) proteinopathies, along with 29 control subjects. The wasteosome amount in each brain region for the different FLTD patients was assessed with a permutation test with age at death and sex as covariables, and multiple regressions explored associations with age at death and disease duration. Double immunofluorescence studies examined altered proteins linked to FTLD in wasteosomes. FTLD patients showed a higher accumulation of wasteosomes than control subjects, especially those with FTLD-FUS. Unlike FTLD-TDP and control subjects, wasteosome accumulation did not increase with age in FTLD-tau and FTLD-FUS. Cases with shorter disease duration in FTLD-tau and FTLD-FUS seemed to exhibit higher wasteosome quantities, whereas FTLD-TDP appeared to show an increase with disease progression. Immunofluorescence studies revealed the presence of tau and phosphorylated-TDP-43 in the periphery of isolated wasteosomes in some patients with FTLD-tau and FTLD-TDP, respectively. Central inclusions of FUS were observed in a higher number of wasteosomes in FTLD-FUS patients. These findings suggest a role of wasteosomes in FTLD, especially in the more aggressive forms of FLTD-FUS. Detecting these proteins, particularly FUS, in wasteosomes from cerebrospinal fluid could be a potential biomarker for FTLD.
Conducting a diabetes mellitus prevention trial in women with GDM in Pakistan: a feasibility study
Authors: Iqbal Romaina , Naz Sabahat , Sheikh Sana , Qureshi Rahat , Bhutta Shereen , Yasmeen Haleema , Azam Iqbal , Gill Paramjit
Published: June 2024

Background

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than women without GDM. Despite this elevated risk, few trials on the prevention of T2DM among South Asian women with GDM have been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the feasibility of conducting a diabetes prevention program on women with a history of GDM to inform the development of a contextually relevant definitive trial.

Methods

Using a randomized controlled trial, women with GDM (n = 180) who delivered at the study hospitals (one public and one private teaching hospital, Karachi) with fasting blood glucose levels < 120 mg/dl at 6 weeks postpartum were randomized to the intervention (n = 88) or control arms (n = 92). Women in the intervention group received individualized home-based educational sessions from trained community health workers at 0, 1, 3, 6, and 9 months. In addition, they received short text messages, prerecorded messages, and printed educational material (calendars and pamphlets) for reinforcement. The intervention was centered on equipping women with knowledge, skills, and confidence to eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products and perform regular physical activity based on walking and household chores to reduce weight (up to 5% of their initial body weight). Women in the control arm received standard care. The feasibility outcomes of the study included screening, recruitment, and retention rates and in-depth interviews at 6 months post-intervention to explore women’s experiences with the intervention. Descriptive analysis and thematic analysis were performed.

Results

Of the 324 women screened during the antenatal care visits and after delivery, 255 (78.7%) were contactable 6 weeks postpartum, and 180 (70.6%) were eligible and randomized to intervention (n = 88) and control (n = 92) groups. Loss to follow-up in the intervention and control arms was 22.7% (n = 20/88) and 18.5% (n = 17/92), respectively. Women expressed satisfaction with home-based counseling and follow-up visits, text message reminders, and printed material in the form of a calendar through our qualitative interviews.

Conclusions

Home-based lifestyle modification intervention augmented with text messages and printed material is feasible. However, to evaluate the intervention’s effectiveness, a larger trial is warranted to assess its long-term impact on diabetes prevention.

Trial registration

ISRCTN, ISRCTN11387113. Registered 5 December 2017—retrospectively registered.
Collaborative listening using multimedia through metacognitive instruction: a case study with less-skilled and more-skilled EFL learners
Authors: Shamsi Esmat , Bozorgian Hossein
Published: June 2024

Multimedia is vastly used as authentic and available input in second and foreign-language contexts. To deal with the difficulties and complexities of comprehending these authentic materials, collaborative learning through metacognitive instruction helps develop learners' listening comprehension. The present study has mainly explored the role of using multimedia input through metacognitive instruction of a group of 20 upper-intermediate EFL learners divided into five groups (each including two less-skilled and two more-skilled learners). They received eight weeks of metacognitive instruction in listening at an English language learning institute. Evidence gathered from observation, learners' logs, and semi-structured interviews shows that collaboration, interaction, and the use of metacognitive strategies help learners improve overall listening comprehension. Moreover, the learners had positive attitudes towards utilizing multimedia input, which provided them with some kinesics and prosodic hints to understand the listening content. The findings and pedagogical implications for language learners and teachers are discussed further.