bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decoding physiological and pathological roles of innate immune cells in eye diseases: the perspectives from single-cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Lu Chen , Mao Xiying , Yuan Songtao
Published: October 2024

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has facilitated a deeper comprehension of the molecular mechanisms behind eye diseases and has prompted the selection of precise therapeutic targets by examining the cellular and molecular intricacies at the single-cell level. This review delineates the pivotal role of scRNA-seq in elucidating the functions of innate immune cells within the context of ocular pathologies. Recent advancements in scRNA-seq have revealed that innate immune cells, both from the periphery and resident in the retina, are actively engaged in various stages of multiple eye diseases. Notably, resident microglia and infiltrating neutrophils exhibit swift responses during the initial phase of injury, while peripheral monocyte-derived macrophages exhibit transcriptomic profiles akin to those of activated microglia, suggesting their potential for long-term residence within the retina. The scRNA-seq analyses have underscored the cellular heterogeneity and gene expression alterations within innate immune cells, which, while sharing commonalities, exhibit disease-specific variations. These insights have not only broadened our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms in eye diseases but also paved the way for the identification of candidate targets for targeted therapeutic interventions. The application of scRNA-seq technology has heralded a new era in the study of ocular pathologies, enabling a more detailed appreciation of the roles that innate immune cells play across a spectrum of eye diseases.
Immune regulation: a new strategy for traditional Chinese medicine-based treatment of granulomatous lobular mastitis
Authors: Lou Yuan , Xu Han , Lu Zixuan , Wang Bin , Liu Xiaofei
Published: October 2024

Granulomatous lobular mastitis (GLM) presents significant challenges, including high rates of morbidity, recurrence, and disability, ultimately impacting women’s health and quality of life. Local autoimmune imbalance involving dysregulated cytokines and immune cells has been recognized to play a key role in the pathology of GLM. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with its multi-component, multi-pathway and multi-target characteristics, offers unique advantages and broad prospects in the treatment of GLM. Here, we review the relationship between immune dysregulation and GLM, as well as the regulatory mechanisms of TCM-based interventions, with the aim of providing new insights and foundational knowledge for the clinical treatment of GLM, while promoting the further application and development of TCM-based strategies for the treatment of GLM.
What is new in imaging to assist in the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis and Takayasu’s arteritis since the EULAR and ACR/VF recommendations?
Authors: Ni Ruoning , Kohler Minna J.
Published: October 2024

Over the past decades, fundamental insights have been gained to establish the pivotal role of imaging in the diagnosis of large-vessel vasculitis, including giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu’s arteritis (TAK). A deeper comprehension of imaging modalities has prompted earlier diagnosis leading to expedited treatment for better prognosis. The European Alliance of Associations in Rheumatology (EULAR) recommended in 2023 that ultrasound should be the initial imaging test in suspected GCA, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) remains the first-line imaging modality in suspected TAK. We summarize the recent advances in diagnostic imaging in large vessel vasculitis, highlighting use of combination imaging modalities, and discuss progress in newer imaging techniques such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound, shear wave elastography, ocular ultrasound, ultrasound biomicroscopy, integration of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with MRI, novel tracer in PET, black blood MRI, orbital MRI, and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) to existing imaging modalities. Our aim is to offer a perspective on ongoing advancements in imaging for the diagnosis of GCA and TAK, particularly innovative technology, which could potentially boost diagnostic precision.
Neuronal basis of high frequency fMRI fluctuation: direct evidence from simultaneous recording
Authors: Qiao Yang , Lu Hanbing , Yang Yihong , Zang Yufeng
Published: October 2024

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (RS-fMRI) has been extensively utilized for noninvasive investigation of human brain activity. While studies employing simultaneous recordings of fMRI and electrophysiology have established a connection between the low-frequency fluctuation (< 0.1 Hz) observed in RS-fMRI and the local field potential (LFP), it remains unclear whether the RS-fMRI signal exhibits frequency-dependent modulation, which is a well-documented phenomenon in LFP. The present study concurrently recorded resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (RS-fMRI) and local field potentials (LFP) in the striatum of 8 rats before and after a pharmacological manipulation. We observed a highly similar frequency-dependent pattern of amplitude changes in both RS-fMRI and LFP following the manipulation, specifically an increase in high-frequency band amplitudes accompanied by a decrease in low-frequency band amplitudes. These findings provide direct evidence that the enhanced high-frequency fluctuations and reduced low-frequency fluctuations observed in RS-fMRI may reflect heightened neuronal activity.
Food service safety and hygiene factors: a longitudinal study on the Brazilian consumer perception
Authors: Carvalho Natália Caldeira de , Silva Clarisse Lolli e , Liboredo Juliana Costa
Published: October 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the perceptions and attitudes of consumers toward food service safety and hygiene when purchasing ready-to-eat food. Data were collected at three time points: before (T0) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (T1 and T2). Among the 333 participants, 45.9% reported fear of contracting COVID-19 when purchasing off-site meals, and 78.4% for on-site meals in T1, compared to 21.0 and 52.0% in T2, respectively (p < 0.001). Hygiene and cleanliness of the establishment became less important for participants when selecting food services throughout the pandemic (T0: 42.6%; T1: 41.1%; T2: 0.0%; p < 0.01). Security protocols during off-site and on-site purchases were considered important by more participants in T1 (47.7 and 27.6%, respectively) than in T0 (28.8 and 9.0%, respectively), with a decrease in T2 (0 and 16.5%, respectively; p < 0.01). Regarding food delivery services, concerns about hygiene decreased in T1 (44%) compared to T0 (63.7%) but increased again in T2 (76%; p < 0.01). Precautions with the food packaging was less prevalent at least during one point in the pandemic compared to T0 (p < 0.01), while heating food before consumption was more common at the onset of the pandemic (T1) but declined by T2 (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the use of cash decreased while contactless payment methods increased during the pandemic. In conclusion, different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced consumer behavior and attitudes toward purchasing ready-to-eat food.
Effect of tea consumption on the development of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Li Xueying , Zhang Congcong , Weng Yihui , Yu Weiming , Cai Xianlei
Published: October 2024

Background

The effect of tea consumption on conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity has attracted significant global interest. However, the results of various studies on this topic have been mixed and somewhat contentious. Therefore, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal relationships between tea consumption and the aforementioned health conditions.

Methods

A bidirectional two-sample MR analysis was used to systematically explores the associations between tea consumption and hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. MR-Egger regression, weighted median, inverse variance weighted, and weighted mode methods were used to evaluate the potential causal associations. Leave-one-out sensitivity test was used to check the robustness of the IVW estimates.

Results

MR analysis indicated that genetically predicted tea consumption is associated with a protective effect against hypertension, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.78 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 0.64 to 0.95. Additionally, tea consumption appeared to have a potential protective effect on type 2 diabetes and obesity related to excessive calorie intake, influenced by specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), namely “rs57462170” and “rs17685.” No causal link was observed between the consumption of green or herbal tea and hypertension, diabetes, or obesity. However, there was a marginal negative association between type 2 diabetes and tea consumption and (OR = 0.99; 95% CI: 0.97–1.00) and a significant negative correlation between obesity due to excessive calorie intake and green tea consumption (OR = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.16–0.78).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a protective causal relationship between the consumption of tea (including black and green teas) and reduced risk of hypertension. Furthermore, our results suggest that tea intake may also have a protective effect on type 2 diabetes and obesity. The results recommend further research to verify or refine these findings.
High barley intake in non-obese individuals is associated with high natto consumption and abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria in the gut: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Maruyama Satoko , Matsuoka Tsubasa , Hosomi Koji , Park Jonguk , Murakami Haruka , Miyachi Motohiko , Kawashima Hitoshi , Mizuguchi Kenji , Kobayashi Toshiki , Ooka Tadao , Yamagata Zentaro , Kunisawa Jun
Published: October 2024

Objective

Barley, abundant in β-glucan, a soluble dietary fiber, holds promise in obesity prevention. Given the microbial metabolism of dietary fiber in the gastrointestinal tract, we investigated the role of gut microbiota in non-obese individuals consuming high levels of barley.

Methods

Our study enrolled 185 participants from “The cohort study on barley and the intestinal environment (UMIN000033479).” Comprehensive physical examinations, including blood tests, were conducted, along with separate assessments of gut microbiome profiling and dietary intake. Participants were categorized into high and low barley consumption groups based on the median intake, with non-obese individuals in the high intake group identified as barley responders while participants with obesity were designated as non-responders. We compared the relative abundance of intestinal bacteria between these groups and used multivariate analysis to assess the association between intestinal bacteria and barley responders while controlling for confounding factors.

Results and discussion

Among the fermented food choices, responders exhibited notably higher consumption of natto (fermented soybeans) than non-responders. Moreover, after adjusting for confounders, Butyricicoccus and Subdoligranulum were found to be significantly more prevalent in the intestines of responders. Given natto’s inclusion of Bacillus subtilis, a glycolytic bacterium, and the butyrate-producing capabilities of Butyricicoccus and Subdoligranulum, it is hypothesized that fiber degradation and butyrate production are likely to be enhanced within the digestive tract of barley responders.
Development and validation of a tumor marker-based model for the prediction of lung cancer: an analysis of a multicenter retrospective study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Hu Sheng , Guo Qiang , Ye Jiayue , Ma Hongdan , Zhang Manyu , Wang Yunzhe , Wan Bingen , Qiu Shengyu , Liu Xinliang , Luo Guiping , Zhang Wenxiong , Yu Dongliang , Xu Jianjun , Wei Yiping , Zeng Linxiang
Published: October 2024

Background

The incidence and mortality rates of cancer are the highest globally. Developing novel methodologies that precisely, safely, and economically differentiate between benign and malignant lung conditions holds immense clinical importance. This research seeks to construct a predictive model utilizing a combination of diverse biomarkers to effectively discriminate between benign and malignant lung diseases.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients admitted to the two general hospitals in Shanghai from 2014 to 2015. This study was developed using five tumor markers: carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigen 199 (CA199), cytokeratin fragment 21-1 (CA211), squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC), and neuron specific enolase (NSE). The entire sample was divided into two groups according to the hospital: 1033 cases were included in the development cohort and 300 cases in the validation cohort. Logistic regression analysis was used for univariate analysis to explore individual correlations between each selected clinical variable and lung cancer diagnostic outcome. Diagnostic prediction models were constructed and validated based on independent prognostic factors identified using multifactorial analysis. A nomogram was created using these tumor markers (age and sex were additionally included) and validated using the concordance index and calibration curves. Clinical prediction models were evaluated using decision curve analysis.

Results

Fully adjusted multivariate analysis showed that the risk of lung cancer was 2.38 times higher in men than in women. CEA positivity was associated with an 13.41-fold increased risk in lung cancer. The area under the curve (AUC) values for the development cohort and validation cohort models were 0.907 and 0.954, respectively. In the established nomogram, the AUC for the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.907 (95% CI, 0.889–0.925). The validation model confirmed the strong discriminative power of the nomogram (AUC = 0.954). The described calibration curves demonstrated good fit predictions and observation probabilities. In addition, decision curve analysis concluded that the newly established nomogram has important implications for clinical decision making.

Conclusions

Combined prediction models based on CEA, CA199, CA211, SCC, and NSE biomarkers could significantly the differentiation between benign and malignant lung diseases, thus facilitating better clinical decision making.
Clinical and prognostic significance of Hec1 expression in patients with Cervical Cancer
Authors: Zhao Yutai , Xu Lei , Peng Cong , Deng Jie , Huang Chaolin , Lu Ling
Published: October 2024

Objective

Hec1 is a component of the Ndc80 kinetochore complex and is frequently upregulated in various cancers. However, the clinical significance of Hec1 in cervical cancer remains largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the expression patterns of Hec1 in cervical cancer and its relationship with the clinicopathological characteristics of patients diagnosed with the disease.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to assess the expression of Hec1 in 136 cervical cancer tissue samples and 82 normal cervical tissue samples. The relationship between Hec1 protein expression and the clinicopathological characteristics of cervical cancer patients was analyzed using the Chi-square test. Additionally, the association between Hec1 protein expression and patient survival was examined using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Independent risk factors affecting the prognosis of cervical cancer patients were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

The positive expression rate of Hec1 protein in cervical cancer tissues was 83.82%, significantly higher than the 7.31% in normal cervical tissues. Compared to patients with negative Hec1 expression, those with positive expression exhibited significantly higher FIGO staging, increased lymph node metastasis, greater depth of tumor stromal infiltration, and larger tumor diameter. Multivariable analysis using the Cox proportional hazards regression model indicated that Hec1 positive expression was an independent risk factor for both overall survival (HR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.65–4.05, p = 0.012) and progression-free survival (HR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.22-3.18, p = 0.002) in cervical cancer patients. Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that patients with positive Hec1 expression experienced a lower overall survival (HR: 2.72, 95% CI: 1.15–4.52, p = 0.004) and progression-free survival (HR: 3.12, 95% CI: 1.62–5.03, p = 0.002) when compared to those with negative Hec1 expression.

Conclusion

Hec1 is significantly upregulated in cervical cancer tissues and associated with poor prognosis in cervical cancer patients. Therefore, Hec1 could be a novel biomarker, not only for the diagnosis and treatment evaluation of cervical cancer but also as an indicator for predicting the prognosis of cervical cancer patients.
Landscape of targeted therapies for lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Qiuxuan , Zheng Xiaoshuo , Cheng Weiting , Li Jian
Published: October 2024

Lung cancer, a common type of malignant neoplasm, has seen significant advancements in the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the management of lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) continues to pose challenges. Traditional treatment methods for LSCC encompass surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The introduction of targeted therapy and immunotherapy has greatly benefited LSCC patients, but issues such as limited immune response rates and adverse reactions persist. Therefore, gaining a deeper comprehension of the underlying mechanisms holds immense importance. This review provides an in-depth overview of classical signaling pathways and therapeutic targets, including the PI3K signaling pathway, CDK4/6 pathway, FGFR1 pathway and EGFR pathway. Additionally, we delve into alternative signaling pathways and potential targets that could offer new therapeutic avenues for LSCC. Lastly, we summarize the latest advancements in targeted therapy combined with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy for LSCC and discuss the prospects and challenges in this field.
Paraaortic lymph node metastasis in endometrial cancer patients: a comprehensive analysis of rates, survival outcomes, and risk factors through systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Han Ling , Chen Yali , Zheng Ai , Tan Xin , Chen Hengxi
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study aims to explore the incidence of different metastatic patterns in paraaortic lymph nodes and their corresponding survival outcomes in patients with endometrial cancer, as well as to identify the associated risk factors of such metastasis.

Material and methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and Clinical Trials.gov were searched from inception to February 10, 2024.The analysis was conducted using R version 4.2.3.

Results

A total of 47 studies involving 33,425 endometrial cancer patients were analyzed. Meta-analysis results revealed that the rate of isolated paraaortic lymph node metastasis, where pelvic lymph nodes were negative but paraaortic lymph nodes were positive (PLN-PAN+), was found to be 2.58% (95% CI 0.0195-0.0329). The rates for PLN+PAN- and PLN+PAN+ were notably higher at 8.54% (95% CI 0.0642-0.1092) and 8.37% (95% CI 0.0613-0.1090), respectively. For clinical stage I EC, the occurrence rate was 5.92% for PLN+PAN- (95% CI 0.0258-0.1032), 1.00% for PLN-PAN+ (95% CI 0.0081-0.0120), and 2.99% for PLN+PAN+ (95% CI 0.0188-0.0431). The survival outcomes indicate a decreasing trend from the PLN-PAN+ and PLN+PAN- groups to the PLN+PAN+ group. Additionally, the survival outcomes of patients with isolated paraaortic lymph node metastasis appear to be comparable to, or not inferior to, those of the PLN+PAN- group. The analysis indicated that pelvic lymph node metastasis (OR 16.72, 95% CI 10.03-27.86), myometrial invasion ≥50% (OR 5.18, 95% CI 3.09-8.69), lymph-vascular space invasion (LVSI) (OR 3.46, 95% CI 2.49-4.81), cervical invasion (OR 4.00, 95% CI 2.09-7.66), and non-endometrioid cancer (OR 2.39, 95% CI 1.17-4.86) were risk factors for paraaortic lymph node metastasis.

Conclusions

Isolated paraaortic lymph node metastasis, though relatively rare, can still occur even in clinical stage I endometrial cancer. The survival outcomes of patients with isolated paraaortic lymph node metastasis appear to be comparable to, or not inferior to, those of the PLN+PAN- group. Even in patients with negative pelvic lymph nodes, careful consideration should be given to the possibility of paraaortic lymph node metastasis, especially in those with high-risk factors.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024503959.
The effectiveness and factors influencing frequency of endoscopic bougie dilatation in treating postoperative anastomotic stenosis of congenital esophageal atresia
Authors: He Xiao-qing , Xiong Li-jing , Deng Xiao-zhi , Yang Zheng-bing , Yan Huan , Zhang Yi-xian , Shang Li-hong , Xie Xiao-li , Liu Li-rong , Li Jing
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study is to evaluate the effectiveness and frequency factors of endoscopic bougie dilatation in treating postoperative anastomotic stenosis of congenital esophageal atresia (CEA).

Methods

The clinical data of patients of anastomotic stenosis with endoscopic bougie were retrospectively analyzed. According to the number of dilation times (ND), patients were divided into two groups (Group 0: ND < 3; Grooup1: ND ≥ 3), and the differences in multiple clinical data were compared. Lasso regression and Ridge regression were used to screen important variables. Classification models were built utilizing various machine learning algorithms and their performance were evaluated. Finally, Kaplan-Meier model was used to estimate the probable-time distribution of children achieving normal feeding.

Results

Seventy-five patients underwent a total of 210 times of dilation, with a median of 3 times of dilation. The overall effectiveness was 98.67% (74/75), with perforation in 2 case (0.95%), and obvious bleeding in 3 cases (1.43%). Initial diameter of bougie, final diameter of bougie, treatment pattern (Regular: dilation each 4weeks; Wait-and-see: dilation until symptoms present), age at final dilation, esophageal obstruction by food were the factors related to ND. Random Forest (RF) and Logistic regression (LR) model were excellent models for predicting ND. The median age for achieving normal eating in Group0 was 120 days (95% CI: 90–160), while it was 270 days (95% CI: 240–460) in Group1 with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Endoscopic bougie dilatation is a safe and effective treatment for anastomotic stenosis. Selecting the appropriate bougie, using symptoms as the criterion for dilation, and minimizing the dilations under 3 times constitute a rational strategy.
Protective effect of baicalin on oxidative stress injury in retinal ganglion cells through the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Yu Huan , Zhou Dan , Wang Wei , Wang Qingxia , Li Min , Ma Xiaoyun
Published: October 2024

Background and Purpose

The damage or apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is one of the leading causes of various blinding eye diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, optic neuritis, and ischemic optic neuropathy. Oxidative stress is involved in RGCs death. Baicalin, a flavonoid compound extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis, has various beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant properties. However, the effects of baicalin on RGCs and the underlying mechanisms require further investigation.

Methods

In this study, a glutamate-induced oxidative stress damage model of R28 cells and a rat retinal injury model were established to investigate the effects of baicalin on oxidative stress damage to RGCs and try to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Results

In vitro experiments demonstrated that the survival rate of R28 cells after glutamate treatment dropped to 33.4%, while 10 μM baicalin significantly inhibited glutamate-induced damage in RGCs (P < 0.001) and enhanced cell viability through decreasing ROS levels, increasing antioxidant enzyme activity, and suppressing the expression of inflammatory factors iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β (P < 0.001). In vivo, baicalin effectively mitigated structural damage to retinal tissue and RGCs morphology induced by glutamate, increasing the thickness of the retinal ganglion cell layer, improving RGCs density, and reducing overall retinal thinning in rats (P < 0.001) in a time- and dose-dependent effects. Mechanistic studies revealed that glutamate evaluated the phosphorylation levels of JAK/STAT, while baicalin effectively inhibited the activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

Conclusion

This study confirmed that baicalin protects against glutamate-induced oxidative stress damage in RGCs. It effectively alleviates oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, reduces cell apoptosis, and improves the pathological changes in the retina of rat models of RGCs damage, thereby decreasing RGCs death. Further exploration of its mechanism revealed that baicalin effectively inhibits the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, protecting RGCs from oxidative stress damage. This provides an experimental basis for the application of baicalin in the treatment of RGCs damage.
Thematic and intertextual analysis from a feasibility study of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music with clients in eating disorder treatment
Authors: Heiderscheit Annie
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Eating disorders (ED) are characterized by serious and persistent disturbances with eating, weightcontrol, and body image. Symptoms impact physical health, psychosocial functioning, and can be life-threatening. Individuals diagnosed with an ED experience numerous medical and psychiatric comorbidities due to issues caused by or underlying the ED. Therefore, it is vital to address the complex nature of an ED, as well as the comorbid and underlying issues. This necessitates a psychotherapeutic approach that can help to uncover, explore, and support working through unresolved emotions and experiences. Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) is an in-depth music psychotherapy approach utilizing therapist-programmed music to support the client in uncovering and examining underlying and unresolved issues. The literature surrounding the use of GIM with clients in ED treatment is anecdotal and comprised primarily of clinical case studies.

Method

This secondary analysis, based on a descriptive feasibility study that integrated GIM sessions into the client’s regular ED treatment and examined 116 transcripts from a series of sessions of eight clients.

Results

Thematic analysis of the transcripts identified nine subthemes and three themes that emerged. These themes include emotional landscape (feeling stuck, acknowledging emotions, and working through unresolved emotions), relationships (self, others, and eating disorders), and transformation and growth (finding strength, change, and empowerment). A short series of GIM sessions helped ED clients identify and address issues underlying the ED and to gain or reclaim a sense of self that enabled them to make choices for their life that support their recovery and sense of empowerment. Intertextual analysis revealed imagery indicative of the Hero’s Journey.

Discussion

Further, how engagement in this embodied aesthetic experience stimulates perceptual, cognitive, and affective brain functions which are key in fostering behavioural and psychological change is explicated as it relates to ED treatment and recovery.
Associations between family factors and physical activity clustering in preschool children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Ting , Zhao Guanggao , Fu Jinmei , Sun Shunli , Lv Wendi , He Zihao , Chen Delong , Chen Ruiming
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association between family factors and physical activity (PA) clustering in preschool children.

Methods

Preschoolers’ PA and sedentary behavior (SB) were assessed consecutively for 7 days using ActiGraph accelerometers based on the cutoff counts developed by Pate et al. Information about children, their parents, and their families was collected using questionnaires. We developed a two-step approach to clustering PA both inside and outside of kindergarten. The Euclidean distance metric was utilized to distinguish between groups, while the Schwarz–Bayesian criterion was applied to identify the most optimal sub-group model. A one-way ANOVA was used to assess the clustering effect, and logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of different clustering.

Results

We collected data from 291 preschool children aged 3 to 6 years and divided them into three clusters—Inactive (50.2%), Active in kindergarten (26.8%), and Active outside kindergarten (23.0%)—with significant differences in PA and SB, revealing distinct temporal and spatial clustering patterns (silhouette coefficient = 0.3, p < 0.05). Furthermore, preschooler activity levels correlated significantly with factors including gender (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.19–0.66), age (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.00–1.10), birth weight (OR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.16–2.76), paternal age (OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.02), and maternal income (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.48–0.96).

Conclusion

This study shows that the family environment or parents significantly influence the PA of preschool children. Older fathers may promote preschool children’s PA through greater educational focus and financial stability, while higher maternal income can provide more opportunities and resources for preschool children to engage in active lifestyles. Thus, it is suggested that families providing more attention and exercise opportunities for preschool children’s education can help improve their PA levels in the future.
Developing intensive, short-term courses for public health—Creation and outcome evaluation of the Skills for Health and Research Professionals (SHARP) program at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
Authors: Welbourn Abigail L. , Brennan Kasey J. M. , Baccarelli Andrea A.
Published: October 2024

Short, intensive education programs provide an under-utilized avenue for public health professionals to learn and apply the latest methods and technologies. We report on the creation and implementation of the Skills for Health and Research Professionals (SHARP) program at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. The self-sustaining, concise, intense educational format equips participants with concrete skills, better enabling them to respond to complex public health challenges.
Chitosan-based NPK nanostructure for reducing synthetic NPK fertilizers and improving rice productivity and nutritional indices
Authors: Elshayb Omnia M. , Ghazy Hassnaa A. , Wissa Mariam T. , Farroh Khaled Y. , Wasonga Daniel O. , Seleiman Mahmoud F.
Published: October 2024

Researchers have repeatedly emphasized how urgently we have to decrease the massive nitrogen fertilizer consumption to support agricultural productivity and maintain a sustainable ecosystem. Using chitosan (CS) as a carrier for slow release is considered a potential tool for reducing synthetic fertilizer and improving crop productivity. Therefore, two field experiments were arranged in a randomized complete block design to investigate the effects of seven treatments including synthetic fertilizer and exogenous application of chitosan-based NPK nano-structure (Ch/NPs-NPK) on growth, productivity, and nutrient uptake traits of rice as a worldwide strategy crop during 2022 and 2023 growing seasons. The experimental treatments were: T1 = full recommended synthetic NPK (recommended urea, superphosphate, potassium sulfate; control treatment), T2 = 70% of T1 + Ch/NPs-NPK 100 ppm, T3 = 70% of T1+ Ch/NPs-NPK 200 ppm, T4 = 70% of T1+ Ch/NPs-NPK 300 ppm, T5 = 30% of T1+ Ch/NPs-NPK 100 ppm, T6 = 30% of T1+ Ch/NPs-NPK 200 ppm, and T7 = 30% of T1 + Ch/NPs-NPK 300 ppm. The results revealed that T4 (i.e., 70% of recommended NPK+ Ch/NPs-NPK 300 ppm) and T1 (full recommended synthetic NPK) resulted in the highest and most significant growth and yield traits of rice as well as nutrient grain contents compared to other treatments. Therefore, combining 70% of recommended NPK with Ch/NPs-NPK 300 ppm as an exogenous application can be a smart choice for reducing synthetic NPK fertilizers by 30% in paddy fields without producing a significant decline in terms of growth, yield characteristics, or nutrient grain contents when applying the full recommended synthetic NPK.
Recent advances of optical sensors for point-of-care detection of phthalic acid esters
Authors: Zhang Lili , Chen Mingming , Duan Hongwei , Bu Quan , Dong Xiuxiu
Published: October 2024

Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are often added to plastics to enhance elasticity, transparency, durability and prolong service life as a kind of plasticizer. However, they are not chemically bonded to polymers and are difficult to degrade, which makes it easy for them to release into the environment and enter the human body from various potential sources. This results in environmental pollution and poses health risks. In order to protect ecosystem, ensure food safety and prevent disease, there is an urgent need for sensors that can achieve point-of-care detection of PAEs. Optical sensors have advantages of simplicity, portability and low cost, and have been widely applied to the detection of PAEs. In this review, we focus on introducing the recent advancements and trends in optical sensors for detection of PAEs represented by colorimetric (CL) sensors, fluorescence (FL) sensors and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) platform. Based on recognition strategies (e.g., label-free, aptamer, molecularly imprinted polymer, antibody and enzyme), the significant achievements of these optical sensors in the past 5 years are systematically classified and described in detail. Researchers can quickly know the development status of optical sensors for detection of PAEs in the past 5 years. This review highlights the strengths of each sensor type while also identifying their application limitations, providing researchers with valuable insights into future directions for optical sensor research.
Micro RNA profiles in colostrum exosomes obtained from primiparous or multiparous dairy cows
Authors: Terré Marta , Arís Anna , Garcia-Fruitós Elena , Fàbregas Francesc , Bach Alex
Published: October 2024

Colostrum is rich in membranous vesicles of endocytic origin named exosomes, with proteins, lipids, RNA, and/or DNA cargos which can play different roles in physiological processes. Like other colostrum bioactive compounds, exosomes could be also influenced by individual characteristics. The objective of the study was to characterize miRNA cargo of colostrum exosomes from primiparous and multiparous cows in different farms. Twenty-seven colostrum samples of clinically healthy Holstein cows (11 primiparous and 16 multiparous) from 3 different farms were obtained and frozen. After thawing, exosomes were isolated following an ultracentrifugation protocol, and characterized morphologically. Particle size distribution and western immunoblotting were also analyzMaed. After RNA extraction, miRNAs were sequenced and analyzed to assess potential differences in profiles between primiparous and multiparous cows from different farms. Fourteen miRNA were upregulated and 11 miRNAs downregulated in primiparous compared with multiparous cows. Most of the miRNA differences between primiparous and multiparous cows regulate the gene expression of factors involved in mammary gland development and differentiation, and lipogenesis. In addition, miRNAs from one of the farms showed 8 miRNAs downregulated and 12 upregulated compared with the other 2 farms, independently of parity. Differences in miRNA between farms were mainly associated with immune and inflammatory-related genes. In conclusion, miRNA cargos of bovine colostrum exosomes differ in primiparous and multiparous cows, and some on-farm practices might also determine the content and activity of miRNA in colostrum exosomes.
Design and Applications of High Force Generation in 3D-Printed Pneumatic Artificial Muscles
Authors: Park Jae Hyeong , Jeon Seungweon , Gong Young Jin , Yoon Jimin , Shin Dongsu , Seo Hyeon-Woong , Kim Bo Geun , Koo Ja Choon , Moon Hyungpil , Hugo Rodrigue , Choi Hyouk Ryeol
Published: October 2024

Increasing the force generation and scalability of soft pneumatic actuators poses significant challenges in robotics applications, especially where high load capacities and precise control are required. This paper presents UniBPAM, a novel, scalable soft pneumatic actuator optimized through 3D printing to enhance force generation. By analyzing design parameters, such as the number of sides, height, and origami factor, UniBPAM achieved a 21.48% increase in force generation. Scalable across diameters from 36 to 144 mm, the actuator demonstrated the ability to lift up to 57 kg with 84.9% strain at larger scales. Additionally, the BiBPAM variant enables bidirectional actuation in robotic joints via motion control, which is realized through PID systems, making it suitable for various robotic applications.
A Study of the Impact of New Quality Productive Forces on Agricultural Modernization: Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Huang Qingqing , Guo Wenjing , Wang Yanfei
Published: October 2024

New quality productive forces are the fundamental driving force for the progress of human civilization. To deeply explore the relationship between new quality productive forces and agricultural modernization, data from 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2022 were selected to construct the index system of new quality productive forces and agricultural modernization, carry out scientific measurement, and conduct empirical analysis using the fixed effect model. The results show that new quality productivity can significantly promote agricultural modernization. The new quality productive force has a significant effect on the modernization of agriculture in the eastern, middle, and western regions of China, but the effect is more prominent in the middle and western areas. New productive forces are significantly and positively associated with agricultural modernization in both main grain-producing and non-main grain-producing areas, but the effect is greater in main grain-producing areas. The upgrading of the agricultural industrial structure plays a mediating effect between new productive forces and agricultural modernization. There is a single-threshold effect of the new productive forces empowering agricultural modernization. Accordingly, to better utilize new productive forces to empower agricultural modernization, we should fully activate the talent engine and cultivate modern “new farmers”; strive to build efficient agriculture by taking scientific and technological innovation as the driving force; and promote the sustainable development of agriculture by taking agricultural green production as the orientation.
Effect of Artificial Humic Acids Derived from Municipal Sludge on Plant Growth, Soil Fertility, and Dissolved Organic Matter
Authors: Ji Rongting , Liu Chenwei , Xu Qiujin , Zhang Yue , Chen Mei , Zhang Longjiang , Hu Feilong
Published: October 2024

Due to its high nutrient utilization efficiency, liquid organic fertilizer has become a research hotspot in the field of agricultural planting. Artificial humic acids, which are near-nature products, can be deemed as a green liquid organic fertilizer, but few studies have been reported, which has limited their further application. In this study, artificial humic acids were derived from municipal sludge, and their effect on rice growth, soil fertility, and dissolved organic matter was investigated using multi-chamber root box experiments. The shoot and root biomass of rice can be significantly enhanced by artificial humic acids, and the heavy metal concentration in rice was within safe limits. Artificial humic acids can limit the decrease in soil pH, especially in the far-rhizosphere zone, and improve the distribution of nutrients in the rhizosphere, near-rhizosphere, and far-rhizosphere zones. The use of artificial humic acids led to a significant decrease in soil electrical conductivity. The dissolved organic carbon content in the root zone was significantly increased, and the fluorescence intensity of dissolved organic matter in the rhizosphere was significantly increased. The proportion of specific components of dissolved organic matter was just slightly changed in the rhizosphere and near-rhizosphere zones. Artificial humic acids promoted the humification of dissolved organic matter in the near-rhizosphere and far-rhizosphere zones. The findings indicate that the environmental impact of artificial humic acids is significantly different from conventional chemical fertilizers, and they show huge potential in the agriculture field.
Forecasting Western Corn Rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte) Density and Non-Chemical Control of Larvae: A Practical Review
Authors: Vörös Levente , Ábrahám Rita , Solomon Wogene , Pinke Gyula
Published: October 2024

The western corn rootworm (WCR) (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte; Chrysomelidae) is one of the most significant maize pests in Europe, with farmers spending a substantial amount (approximately 140 EUR) on its control. In the context of climate change, WCRs could pose an even greater threat to EU maize production, particularly as the European Union continues to withdraw an increasing number of effective yet environmentally harmful active agents. Biological control methods have now emerged to the forefront in creating sustainable agriculture. In this review, we carried out an extensive literature analysis on methods for forecasting WCRs and evaluated the practical applicability of the latest non-chemical control methods targeting its larvae. Effective forecasting is essential for successful pest management, enabling informed planning and the selection of the most suitable control methods. Several traditional predicting techniques remain in use today, but recent advancements have introduced modern electronic forecasting units combined with sensor-equipped pheromone and colour traps, as well as thermal sum calculations. Research has demonstrated that crop rotation is one of the most effective methods for controlling WCR larvae. Biological agents, such as entomopathogenic fungi (Beauveria bossiana and Mettarrhyzum anasoplia), entomopathogenic nematodes (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora), and botanical insecticides such as azadirachtin can significantly reduce larval populations and root damage, thereby maintaining infestation levels below the economic threshold. Genetically modified maize plants that produce specific toxins, along with conventional breeding efforts to increase root system regeneration, are also promising tools for the sustainable management of this pest. This review summarizes the solutions for prediction of western corn rootworm infestations and non-chemical control of its larvae. Accurate forecasting methods provide a clear picture of infestation levels in a given area, enabling precisely targeted control measures. In all cases, the control should be directed primarily against the larvae, thereby reducing root damage and reducing the size of the emerging imago population. This review demonstrates that biological control methods targeting larvae can be as effective as pesticides, supporting sustainable pest management.
Residual Effects of Pig Slurry Fertilization in a Mediterranean Rainfed Cereal System
Authors: Ortiz Carlos , Boixadera Jaime , Bosch-Serra Àngela D.
Published: October 2024

An increase in nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) in agriculture is a requirement for sustainable development. The reduction in nitrogen inputs might benefit from the residual N of former organic fertilization procedures. A 10 year experiment was established in a rainfed Mediterranean system (barley–wheat rotation). The objective of this experiment was to quantify the N residual effects of a single pig slurry (PS) application at sowing (20, 40, and 80 m3 ha−1) and up to three years later. The mineral N equivalence method was used to compare the grain yield (GY) and the whole-plant N uptake (WPNU) between the slurry fertilized plots (slurries applied in previous years) and annual mineral N fertilized ones (30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 kg N ha−1). From the total N applied with PS, a fraction of, ca., 21% accounted for the residual equivalent mineral N for a total period of three years after the PS application. For the 20 m3 ha−1 rate, the relative residual N based on the GY and WPNU equaled to 89–90% of the applied organic N, respectively. This rate also allowed for an increase in NUE values to above 33%. In semiarid areas, the introduction of residual N when scheduling fertilization is important to reduce N inputs and to increase NUE.
Molecular Diagnostics for Monitoring Insecticide Resistance in Lepidopteran Pests
Authors: Junqueira Camila Ivo C. Vilarinho Fernandes , Nascimento Eliza F. de Melo Bellard do , Vidal Leonardo A. , Queiroz Erick S. Lustosa de , Albuquerque Erika V. Saliba
Published: October 2024

Chemical control methods to prevent crop damage have long been directly implicated in the selection of lepidoptera insect populations resistant to insecticides. More recently, new products featuring different modes of action (MoA), developed to mitigate the negative effects of control management on both producers and the environment, are rapidly losing efficacy due to the emergence of resistant insects. Among these, certain resistances are associated with molecular changes in the genomes of pest insects that are valuable for developing molecular markers for diagnostic tools, particularly the point mutations. Molecular diagnosis represents an innovative solution for insecticide resistance management (IRM) practices, allowing for the effective monitoring of insecticide resistance. This approach facilitates decision making by enabling the timely alternation between different modes of action (MoAs). In this context, this review focuses on the major lepidopteran pests that affect globally significant crops, discussing the impacts of insecticide resistance. It gathers literature on diagnostic methods; provides a comparative overview of the advantages of different techniques in terms of efficiency, cost, precision, sensitivity, and applicability; and highlights several novel diagnostic tools. Additionally, this review explores the coffee leaf miner, Leucoptera coffeella, as an applied model to illustrate potential approaches for more effective and sustainable control strategies.
Enhancing Laccase and Manganese Peroxidase Activity in White-Rot Fungi: The Role of Copper, Manganese, and Lignocellulosic Substrates
Authors: Benavides Viviana , Ciudad Gustavo , Pinto-Ibieta Fernanda , Robledo Tatiana , Rubilar Olga , Serrano Antonio
Published: October 2024

White-rot fungi (WRF) are increasingly recognized for their biotechnological potential due to the wide range of applications of ligninolytic enzymes. The addition of different metals involved in the functioning of ligninolytic enzymes, mainly copper and manganese, has been widely studied to maximize the enzymatic activities of the WRF. This review aims to provide information on the effect of metal-fungi interaction mechanisms that justify the effects of enzymatic activity. The addition of copper is associated with increased laccase activity, with reported improvements in the laccase activity compared to controls without metal addition of up to 100% at doses between 0.5–1 mM. The addition of manganese resulted in an improvement in manganese peroxidase activity with respect to the control at the wide range of 1–18.2 mM. Furthermore, enzymatic activity was generally favored by using substrates with lignocellulosic fibers with respect to synthetic culture medium. Quantifying the concentration of metals in the substrate is required to monitor bioavailable metals for fungi in these assays accurately, making an external contribution less necessary.