bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene signatures of copper metabolism related genes may predict prognosis and immunity status in Ewing’s sarcoma
Authors: Chen Yongqin , Zhang Wencan , Xu Xiao , Xu Biteng , Yang Yuxuan , Yu Haozhi , Li Ke , Liu Mingshan , Qi Lei , Jiao Xiejia
Published: July 2024

Background

Cuproptosis is copper-induced cell death. Copper metabolism related genes (CMRGs) were demonstrated that used to assess the prognosis out of tumors. In the study, CMRGs were tested for their effect on TME cell infiltration in Ewing’s sarcoma (ES).

Methods

The GEO and ICGC databases provided the mRNA expression profiles and clinical features for downloading. In the GSE17674 dataset, 22prognostic-related copper metabolism related genes (PR-CMRGs) was identified by using univariate regression analysis. Subsequently, in order to compare the survival rates of groups with high and low expression of these PR-CMRGs,Kaplan-Meier analysis was implemented. Additionally, correlations among them were examined. The study employed functional enrichment analysis to investigate probable underlying pathways, while GSVA was applied to evaluate enriched pathways in the ES (Expression Set). Through an unsupervised clustering algorithm, samples were classified into two clusters, revealing significant differences in survival rates and levels of immune infiltration.

Results

Using Lasso and step regression methods, five genes (TFRC, SORD, SLC11A2, FKBP4, and AANAT) were selected as risk signatures. According to the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the high-risk group had considerably lower survival rates than the low-risk group(p=6.013e-09). The area under the curve (AUC) values for the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were 0.876, 0.883, and 0.979 for 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. The risk model was further validated in additional datasets, namely GSE63155, GSE63156, and the ICGC datasets. To aid in outcome prediction, a nomogram was developed that incorporated risk levels and clinical features. This nomogram’s performance was effectively validated through calibration curves.Additionally, the study evaluated the variations in immune infiltration across different risk groups, as well as high-expression and low-expression groups. Importantly, several drugs were identified that displayed sensitivity, offering potential therapeutic options for ES.

Conclusion

The findings above strongly indicate that CMRGs play crucial roles in predicting prognosis and immune status in ES.
Radiomics analysis combining gray-scale ultrasound and mammography for differentiating breast adenosis from invasive ductal carcinoma
Authors: Li Wen , Song Ying , Qian Xusheng , Zhou Le , Zhu Huihui , Shen Long , Dai Yakang , Dong Fenglin , Li Yonggang
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To explore the utility of gray-scale ultrasound (GSUS) and mammography (MG) for radiomic analysis in distinguishing between breast adenosis and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).

Methods

Data from 147 female patients with pathologically confirmed breast lesions (breast adenosis: 61 patients; IDC: 86 patients) between January 2018 and December 2022 were retrospectively collected. A training cohort of 113 patients (breast adenosis: 50 patients; IDC: 63 patients) diagnosed from January 2018 to December 2021 and a time-independent test cohort of 34 patients (breast adenosis: 11 patients; IDC: 23 patients) diagnosed from January 2022 to December 2022 were included. Radiomic features of lesions were extracted from MG and GSUS images. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was applied to select the most discriminant features, followed by logistic regression (LR) to construct clinical and radiomic models, as well as a combined model merging radiomic and clinical features. Model performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

In the training cohort, the area under the curve (AUC) for radiomic models based on MG features, GSUS features, and their combination were 0.974, 0.936, and 0.991, respectively. In the test cohort, the AUCs were 0.885, 0.876, and 0.949, respectively. The combined model, incorporating clinical and all radiomic features, and the MG plus GSUS radiomics model were found to exhibit significantly higher AUCs than the clinical model in both the training cohort and test cohort (p<0.05). No significant differences were observed between the combined model and the MG plus GSUS radiomics model in the training cohort and test cohort (p>0.05).

Conclusion

The effectiveness of radiomic features derived from GSUS and MG in distinguishing between breast adenosis and IDC is demonstrated. Superior discriminatory efficacy is shown by the combined model, integrating both modalities.
Immune-related adverse events in patients treated with immunotherapy for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC in real-world settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pasello Giulia , Pavan Alberto , De Nuzzo Mattia , Frega Stefano , Ferro Alessandra , Dal Maso Alessandro , Bonanno Laura , Guarneri Valentina , Girardi Fabio
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) represent the mainstay for the approval of new treatments. However, stringent inclusion criteria often cause them to depart from the daily clinical practice. Real-world (RW) evidence have a complementing role, filling the gap between the efficacy of a treatment and its effectiveness. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have changed the treatment scenario for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); immune-related adverse events (irAEs) could become life-threatening events, when not timely managed. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on the RW impact of irAEs through the years.

Methods

The systematic review focused on irAEs occurred in locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC patients, treated with ICIs in a RW setting. We queried two electronic databases (Embase and Medline) from 1996 to August 2022. We then conducted a meta-analysis dividing the results in two cohorts (2015-2018 and 2019-2021). We described the prevalence of patients with irAEs of any or severe grade (G). Estimates were expressed as proportions up to the second decimal point (effect size, ES). IrAEs of interest were those involving the skin, the liver, the endocrine system or the gastro-intestinal system.

Results

Overall, 21 RW studies on 5,439 patients were included in the quantitative and qualitative synthesis. The prevalence of G≥3 irAEs was slightly lower in the 2015-2018 subgroup, while the prevalence of irAEs of any grade was similar for both periods. Overall, we observed a higher ES for gastrointestinal, hepatic and lung irAEs, while a lower ES was reported for skin or endocrine irAEs. Endocrine irAEs were reported in 10 out of 21 studies, with a slight increase in the most recent studies, while cutaneous toxicities were mostly reported in two studies lead within the first time-period. Pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and hepatic toxicities, showed a more heterogeneous distribution of ES over time.

Discussion

Our findings showed that the frequency of irAEs remained stable across the two calendar periods examined in our meta-analysis. This finding suggests that RW data might not be able to identify a potential learning curve in detection and management of irAEs.
Enhancing breast cancer treatment: mesoporous dopamine nanoparticles in synergy with chrysin for photothermal therapy
Authors: Zhu Jing , Zhang Heng , Lan Haomiao , Bi Bing , Peng Xianfeng , Li Dandan , Wang Haili , Zhu Ke , Shao Fuqiang , Yin Minggang
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers, primarily affecting women. Among its subtypes, estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer is particularly common. Inhibiting estrogen's effects is crucial for treating ER+ breast cancer, but current therapies often have significant side effects and limitations. Chrysin, a natural flavonoid, has shown potential in reducing estrogen receptor expression, but its poor water solubility hampers clinical application. This study explores the use of mesoporous dopamine nanoparticles (mPDA) to enhance the delivery and efficacy of Chrysin, combined with photothermal therapy (PTT), for breast cancer treatment.

Methods

Chrysin-loaded mPDA nanoparticles (Chrysin@mPDA) were synthesized and characterized for their morphology, drug-loading efficiency, stability, and photothermal properties. Network pharmacology was used to predict Chrysin's mechanisms in breast cancer, which were validated through gene expression analysis in cell experiments. The therapeutic efficacy of Chrysin@mPDA with and without PTT was evaluated in a mouse model of breast cancer, with tumor volume and weight measured. Immunohistochemical analysis was conducted to assess estrogen receptor expression and immune cell infiltration in tumor tissues.

Results

Chrysin@mPDA nanoparticles demonstrated a high drug-loading capacity and excellent stability. Photothermal studies confirmed the nanoparticles' ability to generate heat upon laser exposure, significantly enhancing Chrysin release in acidic conditions with laser irradiation. Network pharmacology identified key target genes affected by Chrysin, including ESR1, BRCA1, CTNNB1, and BAX, which were validated through qPCR. In vivo, the combination of Chrysin@mPDA and PTT significantly reduced tumor volume and weight, decreased estrogen receptor-positive cells, and increased infiltration of CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ T cells in tumor tissues.

Discussion

The study highlights the potential of Chrysin-loaded mPDA nanoparticles combined with PTT as an effective strategy for breast cancer treatment. This approach addresses the limitations of Chrysin's solubility and enhances its therapeutic efficacy through synergistic mechanisms. The dual action of Chrysin in modulating gene expression and PTT in inducing localized hyperthermia and immune response suggests a promising avenue for improved breast cancer prognosis and reduced recurrence.
Research perspective in the clinical management of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Yi Xiong-xiong , Zhang Wen-rong , Wang Dong-mei , Wang Xiu-ping , Zhang Fen-xia
Published: July 2024

This study examines research perspective in the clinical diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cardiovascular complications in Kawasaki Disease (KD). Starting with an overview of the disease, it introduces KD's clinical manifestations, etiology, epidemiological features, and its impact on the cardiovascular system. Subsequently, the study discusses in detail the diagnostic methods, pathological mechanisms, and treatment strategies for KD, including foundational and emerging approaches such as high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin therapy, biologic therapy, and corticosteroid pulse therapy. Additionally, it outlines strategies for preventing cardiovascular complications, including early risk assessment and long-term management. The study also explores the intersection of the COVID-19 pandemic with an increase in KD-like symptoms, emphasizing the need for further studies on the association between SARS-CoV-2 and KD. Lastly, it explores future research directions to enhance understanding of KD and improve patient outcomes and quality of life. This study provides valuable insights into the comprehensive treatment and management of KD and highlights avenues for future research.
S1P/S1PR1 signaling is involved in the development of nociceptive pain
Authors: Dong Daosong , Yu Xue , Tao Xueshu , Wang Qian , Zhao Lin
Published: July 2024

Background

Pain is a complex perception involving unpleasant somatosensory and emotional experiences. However, the underlying mechanisms that mediate its different components remain unclear. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a metabolite of sphingomyelin and a potent lipid mediator, initiates signaling via G protein-coupled receptors (S1PRs) on cell surfaces. It serves as a second messenger in cellular processes such as proliferation and apoptosis. Nevertheless, the neuropharmacology of sphingolipid signaling in pain conditions within the central nervous system remains largely unexplored and controversial.

Methods

Chronic nociceptive pain models were induced in vivo by intraplantar injection of 20 μL complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the left hind paws. We assessed S1P and S1PR1 expression in the spinal cords of CFA model mice. Functional antagonists of S1PR1 or S1PR1-specific siRNA were administered daily following CFA model establishment. Paw withdrawal response frequency (PWF) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were measured to evaluate mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, respectively. RT-PCR assessed interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to analyze glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule (Iba1), STAT3, ERK, and p38 MAPK protein expression.

Results

In the chronic nociceptive pain model induced by CFA, S1P and S1PR1 expression levels were significantly elevated, leading to activation of spinal cord glial cells. S1PR1 activation also promoted MMP2-mediated cleavage of mature IL-1β. Additionally, S1PR1 activation upregulated phosphorylation of STAT3, ERK, and p38 MAPK in glial cells, profoundly impacting downstream signaling pathways and contributing to chronic nociceptive pain.

Conclusion

The S1P/S1PR1 axis plays a pivotal role in the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying nociceptive pain. This signaling pathway modulates glial cell activation and the expression of pain-related genes (STAT3, ERK, p38 MAPK) and inflammatory factors in the spinal dorsal horn. These findings underscore the potential of targeting the S1P system for developing novel analgesic therapies.
Botanical characterization, phytochemistry, biosynthesis, pharmacology clinical application, and breeding techniques of the Chinese herbal medicine Fritillaria unibracteata
Authors: Zhang Yamei , Han Hongping , Li Dingai , Fan Yanan , Liu Meng , Ren Huimin , Liu Lu
Published: July 2024

Fritillaria unibracteata (FRU) belongs to the genus Fritillaria of the Liliaceae family. It is one of the original plants of the Chinese medicinal material “Chuanbeimu” and also a biological resource featured in the Tibetan Plateau of China. The dried bulbs of FRU are used in traditional Chinese medicine. The chemical constituents of FRU that have been isolated and identified include alkaloids, sterols, organic acids and their esters, nucleosides and volatile oils. FRU has antitussive, expectorant, anti-asthmatic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, acute lung injury-reducing, antifibrosis, antitumor, and other pharmacological effects. This valuable plant has an extremely high market demand, and over the years, due to over-exploitation, FRU has now been listed as a key species that is endangered and scarcely cultivated in China as a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. However, research on FRU is rare, and its effective components, resource control, and mechanisms of action need further study. This review systematically discusses the herbal characteristics, resource distribution, chemical composition, biosynthesis, pharmacological effects, clinical application, and breeding techniques of FRU, hoping to provide a reference for further research and the use of FRU.
Neurological adverse events associated with oxaliplatin: A pharmacovigilance analysis based on FDA adverse event reporting system
Authors: Pan Xianglin , Xiao Xiangtian , Ding Yiling , Shu Yamin , Zhang Wenting , Huang Liu
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore the neurological adverse events of oxaliplatin through the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database and to provide reference for safe clinical drug use.

Methods

The adverse events report data of oxaliplatin from the first quarter of 2019 (1 January 2019) to the third quarter of 2023 (30 September 2023) were extracted from FAERS database, and the adverse events signal intensity was determined using the reporting odds ratio, proportional reporting ratio, information component, and empirical Bayes geometric mean methods. Time-to-onset and univariate logistic regression analysis were performed to describe the characteristics and risk factors of oxaliplatin-associated neurological adverse events.

Results

A total of 4,471 cases of oxaliplatin-associated neurological adverse events were identified, with 318 neurological adverse events being documented, among which 87 adverse events satisfied the thresholds of four methodologies. The median time-to-onset of oxaliplatin-associated neurological adverse events was 2 days (interquartile range 0–36 days). Among the factors significantly influencing oxaliplatin-related neurological adverse events, male sex and combination medication decreased the risk of neurological adverse events, while higher cumulative dose increased the risk.

Conclusion

The real-world neurotoxicity spectrum of oxaliplatin and its characteristics and influencing factors were obtained through data mining of FAERS, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals to effectively manage the risk of neurological adverse events associated with oxaliplatin in clinical practice.
Detection of Alzheimer’s disease using Otsu thresholding with tunicate swarm algorithm and deep belief network
Authors: Ganesan Praveena , Ramesh G. P. , Falkowski-Gilski Przemysław , Falkowska-Gilska Bożena
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a degenerative brain disorder characterized by cognitive and memory dysfunctions. The early detection of AD is necessary to reduce the mortality rate through slowing down its progression. The prevention and detection of AD is the emerging research topic for many researchers. The structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (sMRI) is an extensively used imaging technique in detection of AD, because it efficiently reflects the brain variations.

Methods: Machine learning and deep learning models are widely applied on sMRI images for AD detection to accelerate the diagnosis process and to assist clinicians for timely treatment. In this article, an effective automated framework is implemented for early detection of AD. At first, the Region of Interest (RoI) is segmented from the acquired sMRI images by employing Otsu thresholding method with Tunicate Swarm Algorithm (TSA). The TSA finds the optimal segmentation threshold value for Otsu thresholding method. Then, the vectors are extracted from the RoI by applying Local Binary Pattern (LBP) and Local Directional Pattern variance (LDPv) descriptors. At last, the extracted vectors are passed to Deep Belief Networks (DBN) for image classification.

Results and Discussion: The proposed framework achieves supreme classification accuracy of 99.80% and 99.92% on the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and Australian Imaging, Biomarker and Lifestyle flagship work of ageing (AIBL) datasets, which is higher than the conventional detection models.
How should we measure population-level inbreeding depression? Impacts of standing genetic associations between selfing rate and deleterious mutations
Authors: Xu Kuangyi
Published: July 2024

Inbreeding depression (ID) is a major selective force during mating system evolution primarily contributed by highly to partially recessive deleterious mutations. Theories suggest that transient genetic association with fitness alleles can be important in affecting the evolution of alleles that modify the selfing rate during its sweep. Nevertheless, empirical tests often focus on the pre-existing genetic association between selfing rate and ID maintained under mutation–selection balance. Therefore, how this standing genetic association is affected by key factors and its impacts on the evolution of selfing remain unclear. I show that as the selection coefficient of deleterious mutations increases, the association between selfing rate and ID declines from positive to negative. These results predict that association between selfing and ID tends to be negative in populations with low selfing rates, while positive in highly selfing populations. Using population genetic and quantitative genetic models, I show that standing genetic associations between selfing rate and fitness alleles can significantly impact the evolution of the mean selfing rate of a population. I present better metrics of population-level ID, which can be calculated based on the correlation coefficient between individual selfing rate and the fitness of selfed and outcrossed offspring.
Analysis of lettuce transcriptome reveals the mechanism of different light/dark cycle in promoting the growth and quality
Authors: Dai Mengdi , Tan Xiangfeng , Ye Ziran , Chen Xuting , Zhang Yi , Ruan Yunjie , Ma Bin , Kong Dedong
Published: July 2024

Light/dark (L/D) cycle plays a crucial role in controlling the production and quality of vegetables. However, the mechanism of L/D cycle on vegetable growth and quality is scarce studied. To investigate the impact of L/D cycle on lettuce growth and quality, we designed three diel scenarios, including 16 hours of light and 8 hours of darkness (L16/D8), 12 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness (L12/D6), and 8 hours of light and 4 hours of darkness (L8/D4). By phenotypic analysis, we found that lettuce grew taller under the L8/D4 scenario than under L16/D8 light cycle scenarios. The physiological indexes showed that the lettuce leaves grown in the L8/D4 scenario exhibited greater enhancements in the levels of soluble protein, soluble sugar, and carotenoid content compared to the other scenarios. By comparing the expression levels under different diel scenarios (L16/D8 vs L12/D6, L16/D8 vs L8/D4, and L12/D6 vs L8/D4), we identified 7,209 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Additionally, 3 gene modules that were closely related to L/D cycle of lettuce were selected by WGCNA analysis. The eigengenes of three gene modules were enriched in plant hormone signal transduction, sphingolipid metabolism, and nucleocytoplasmic transport pathways. Through network analysis, we identified six hub genes (CIP1, SCL34, ROPGEF1, ACD6, CcmB, and Rps4) in the three gene modules, which were dominant in plant circadian rhythms and greatly affected lettuce growth. qRT-PCR analysis confirmed the diurnal response patterns of the 6 hub genes in different treatments were significant. This study intensively enhanced our comprehension of the L/D cycle in the growth morphology, nutritional quality, and metabolic pathways of lettuce.
Hydrometeorological conditions drive long-term changes in the spatial distribution of Potamogeton crispus in a subtropical lake
Authors: Yang Ke , Yin Yi , Xu Ying , Wang Shaobo , Gao Mingyuan , Peng Kai , Luo Juhua , Gao Junfeng , Cai Yongjiu
Published: July 2024

Globally, anthropogenic disturbance and climate change caused a rapid decline of submerged macrophytes in lake ecosystems. Potamogeton crispus (P. crispus), a species that germinates in winter, explosively expanded throughout many Chinese lakes, yet the underlying mechanism remained unclear. Here, this study examined the long-term changes in the distribution patterns of P. crispus in Lake Gaoyou by combining remote sensing images and hydrometeorological data from 1984 to 2022 and water quality data from 2009 to 2022. It aims to unravel the relationships between the distribution patterns of P. crispus and hydrometeorological and water quality factors. The results showed that the area of P. crispus in Lake Gaoyou showed a slight increase from 1984 to 2009, a marked increase from 2010 to 2019, followed by a decline after 2020. Spatially, P. crispus was primarily distributed in the western and northern parts of Lake Gaoyou, with less distribution in the central and southeastern parts of the lake. Wind speed (WS), temperature (Temp), water level (WL), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and Secchi depth (SD) were identified as the key factors regulating the variation in the P. crispus area in Lake Gaoyou. We found that the P. crispus area showed an increasing trend with increasing Temp, WL, and SD and decreasing WS and NH3-N. The influence of environmental factors on the area of P. crispus in Lake Gaoyou varied among seasons. The results indicated that hydrometeorology (WS, Temp, and WL) may override water quality (NH3-N and SD) in driving the succession of P. crispus distribution. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the recent widespread expansion of P. crispus in shallow lakes across Eastern China.
The time course of semantic ambiguity in visual word recognition: behavioral and ERP evidence for the lexical-semantic effect
Authors: Kim Joonwoo , Kim Sangyub , Nam Kichun
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Homonyms are words with multiple, unrelated meanings that share a single form and pronunciation. These words provide valuable insights into how semantic representation is retrieved and selected independently of orthography and phonology. This study aims to investigate the temporal dynamics of lexical and semantic processing in the visual recognition of Korean words. Specifically, we examine how homonyms and unambiguous words are processed differently during a lexical decision task (LDT) with EEG recording, considering the effects of word frequency and the number of meanings (NOMs).

Methods

Participants performed a lexical decision task where they were required to determine if a visually presented stimulus was a valid Korean word. We compared the behavioral responses and event-related potentials (ERPs) evoked by homonyms and unambiguous words, each possessing either high or low word frequency. Both subjective and objective NOMs were measured and manipulated, while controlling for the subjective balance of individual frequencies of meanings to control for confounding from the relatedness of meaning (ROM). For ERP analysis, a non-parametric cluster-based permutation test was employed in addition to the two time windows of interest (i.e., N400 and P600).

Results

Behavioral results indicated a marginally significant interaction between word frequency and semantic ambiguity along with a main effect of word frequency, showing faster and more accurate responses for high-frequency words. An ambiguity advantage was observed only for low-frequency words, with no significant effect found for high-frequency words. ERP results revealed that lexical-semantic interactions were reflected in the modulations of the N400 and P600 components. High-frequency homonyms elicited an enhanced N400 amplitude, while low-frequency homonyms showed a reduced P600 amplitude.

Discussion

The findings suggest that the activation of semantic information occurs simultaneously with lexical processing, rather than during post-lexical or decision-making processes. Furthermore, considering balanced homonyms were employed in this study, inhibitory competition may arise from the high-frequency individual meanings of high-frequency words. In contrast, in low-frequency words, a facilitative effect may arise from gains in global semantic activation or semantic feedback to the orthographic level.
In-person psychoeducational intervention to reduce rehospitalizations and improve the clinical course of major depressive disorder: a non-randomized pilot study
Authors: Breznoscakova Dagmar , Pallayova Maria , Izakova Lubomira , Kralova Maria
Published: July 2024

Background

Emerging issues in the management of major depressive disorder (MDD) comprise a nonadherence to treatment and treatment failures, depressive recurrence and relapses, misidentification of incoming exacerbated phases and consequently, a chronification of depression. While antidepressant drugs constitute the standard of care for MDD, effective psychosocial interventions are needed to reduce rehospitalizations and other adverse events. The present study primarily investigated the effects and impact of implementing a structured psychoeducational intervention on the clinical course of MDD.

Methods

A non-randomized comparative, pragmatic, pilot, single-center study of adults with nonpsychotic moderate or severe episode of MDD recently discharged from a psychiatric hospitalization. The consecutive subjects were allocated either to the intervention group (N=49) or to the attention control group (N=47), based on their preference. The psychoeducational intervention was based on a modified Munoz’s Depression Prevention Course. Subjects were followed up prospectively for two years.

Results

The absolute changes in Beck anxiety inventory scale, Zung’s depression questionnaire, and Montgomery and Äsberg depression rating scale (MADRS) total scores at 6-month follow-up were comparable between the two groups. There were lower rates of the rehospitalization within one year (2.1% vs. 16.7%; P<0.001) and less rehospitalizations after one year (6.3% vs. 25%; P<0.001), lower rates of the ongoing sickness absence (11.5% vs. 29.2%; P<0.001), less persons with disability due to MDD at 1-year follow-up (1% vs. 11.5%; P=0.002), and less nonadherent subjects who self-discontinued treatment (6.3% vs. 28.1%; P<0.001) among participants in the intervention group compared to the control group. The disability due to MDD at 1-year follow-up was predicted by the absence of the psychoeducational intervention (P=0.002) and by the MADRS total score at 6-month follow-up (OR 1.10; 95% CI 1.003–1.195; P=0.044). Qualitative data indicated the intervention was desired and appreciated by the participants, as well as being practical to implement in Slovakian clinical settings.

Conclusion

The results suggest the psychoeducational intervention based on a modified Munoz’s Depression Prevention Course has beneficial effects in adults with MDD recently discharged from a psychiatric hospitalization. The findings implicate the psychoeducational intervention may offer a new approach to the prevention of depressive relapses.
Acceptance of a mobile telepresence robot used to teach adapted physical activity to isolated older adults: extending and testing the technology acceptance model
Authors: Navarro Elodie , Temprado Jean-Jacques , Mascret Nicolas
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the acceptance of adapted physical activity (APA) by teachers and students before the use of a mobile telepresence robot (MTR), used to remotely supervise isolated older adults’ physical activity. While previous studies have shown MTR to be fairly well accepted by older adults, nothing is known about its acceptance by APA teachers themselves. However, if they did not accept it, the MTR would not be used in the end. This would be a public health issue because isolated older adults would not benefit from supervised APA, yet beneficial to their health. To this end, 334 participants answered a survey that measured different psychological variables, based on the technology acceptance model (TAM). Student’s t-tests and structural equation modeling were used for data processing. Results showed that, before use, there was not any significant difference between teachers’ and students’ acceptance of the MTR. Then, perceived usefulness for teaching APA, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, and intention to use the MTR were lower than the mean of the scale, while perceived usefulness for older adults was higher than the mean of the scale. Finally, this study has validated an extended version of the TAM (including the need for competence and MTR self-efficacy), which allowed it to explain 84.3% of the variance of the students’ and APA teachers’ intention to use the MTR for teaching APA to isolated older adults. Initial obstacles to the use of the MTR seem to exist on the part of APA teachers, prior to their first use, whereas this is not the case for older adults. APA teachers’ acceptance should therefore be investigated in future studies to examine whether this trend is confirmed after the effective use of the MTR.
How health seeking behavior develops in patients with type 2 diabetes: a qualitative study based on health belief model in China
Authors: Du Qiu-hui , Zhang Zi-chen , Yang You , Luo Xiao-xi , Liu Li , Jia Hong-hong
Published: July 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes(T2DM) is a global health problem which is accompanied with multi-systemic complications, and associated with long-term health burden and economic burden. Effective health seeking behavior (HSB) refers to reasonably utilize health resources, effectively prevent and treat diseases, and maintain health. Effective health seeking behavior (HSB) is vital to mitigate the risk of T2DM complications. However, health seeking behavior for T2DM patients remains sub-optimal worldwide.

Objective

The study aimed to explore the internal logic of how health seeking behavior of T2DM patients develops and the influencing factors of health seeking behavior. With a view to provide a reference basis for improving the health seeking behavior situation of T2DM patients.

Methods

This study was conducted at an integrated tertiary hospital in China. People who were diagnosed with T2DM, capable of expressing clearly and had no mental illness, were approached based on a purposive sampling. The experience of T2DM and health seeking behavior were collected via in-depth interviews. A theory-driven thematic analysis based on Health Belief Model (HBM) was applied for data analysis. Inductive reasoning was used to identify emerging themes which were not included in HBM.

Results

26 patients with T2DM were included in the current study. Seven themes were identified, including: (1) T2DM diagnosis and severity; (2) T2DM treatment and management; (3) Perceived susceptibility of diabetes progression; (4) Perceived severity of diabetes progression; (5) Perceived benefits of health seeking behavior; (6) Perceived barriers of health seeking behavior; (7) Perception of behavioral cues. Generally, patients with T2DM lacked reliable sources of information, considered T2DM to be slow-progressing and without posing an immediate threat to life. Consequently, they did not fully grasp the long-term risks associated with T2DM or the protective effects of health seeking behavior.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the challenges in health seeking behavior for patients with T2DM. It suggested that future interventions and strategies should involve multi-faceted approaches, targeting healthcare providers (HCPs), patients with T2DM, and their support networks. This comprehensive strategy can help patients better understand their condition and the importance of effective health seeking behavior. Ultimately, enhancing their capacity for adopting appropriate health-seeking practices.
Effect of dexmedetomidine on somatosensory- and motor-evoked potentials in patients receiving craniotomy under propofol-sevoflurane combined anesthesia
Authors: Yang Xue , Zhang Xinyi , Lin Puxuan , Liu Zeheng , Deng Shuhang , Liang Shanwen , Zhu Xinyi , Qiao Qianqian , Chen Qianxue
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Dexmedetomidine is often used as an adjunct to total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) for procedures requiring intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring (IONM). However, it has been reported that dexmedetomidine might mask the warning of a neurological deficit on intraoperative monitoring.

Methods

We reviewed the intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring data of 47 patients who underwent surgery and IONM from March 2019 to March 2021 at the Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University. Pre- and postoperative motor function scores were recorded and analyzed. Dexmedetomidine was administered intravenously at 0.5 μg/kg/h 40 min after anesthesia and discontinued after 1 h in the dexmedetomidine group.

Results

We found that the amplitude of transcranial motor-evoked potentials (Tce-MEPs) was significantly lower in the dexmedetomidine group than in the negative control group (P < 0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in the somatosensory-evoked potentials (SSEPs) amplitude or the Tce-MEPs or SSEPs latency. There was no significant decrease in postoperative motor function in the dexmedetomidine group compared with the preoperative group, suggesting that there is no evidence that dexmedetomidine affects patient prognosis. In addition, we noticed a synchronized bilateral decrease in the Tce-MEPs amplitude in the dexmedetomidine group and a mostly unilateral decrease on the side of the brain injury in the positive control group (P = 0.001).

Discussion

Although dexmedetomidine does not affect the prognosis of patients undergoing craniotomy, the potential risks and benefits of applying it as an adjunctive medication during craniotomy should be carefully evaluated. When dexmedetomidine is administered, Tce-MEPs should be monitored. When a decrease in the Tce-MEPs amplitude is detected, the cause of the decrease in the MEPs amplitude can be indirectly determined by whether the decrease is bilateral.
Identification and characterization of a novel canine circovirus with truncated replicate protein in Sichuan, China
Authors: Cao Liang , Li Suyao , Xin Jialiang , Liao Yanjun , Li Chenghui , Peng Guangneng
Published: July 2024

Canine circovirus (CanineCV) is a recently identified member of the Circoviridae family. Since its discovery in 2011, CanineCV has been detected in different countries worldwide, infecting both domestic and wild canids. The virus is potentially associated with gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses. In 2016, CanineCV was reported in the southwestern region of Guangxi, China. However, its prevalence in other provinces in the Southwest region remained unknown. This study collected a total of 208 serum samples from domestic dogs in Sichuan, China in 2022 to investigate the prevalence of CanineCV. Among these samples, 26 tested positive for CanineCV, resulting in a positivity rate of 12.5%. Additionally, 12 strains were sequenced, 9 of which had a sequence length of 2,063 nucleotides (nt), 2 of the other threes had a length of 2,062 nts and another was 2,064 nt. Notably, a frameshift mutation was identified, resulting in a truncated ORF1 and the occurrence of a novel sequence comprised of 13 amino acids at the end of the replicate protein (Rep). This mutation could affect the replication cycle of the virus. Phylogenetic and evolutionary analyses revealed that the isolates belonged to the CanineCV-3 genotype and were prevalent in the Southeast and the Southwest regions of China, as well as in the neighboring countries alongside other strains of the same genotype. Collectively, this epidemiological investigation widens our understanding of the genetic diversity of CanineCV in Southwest China and provides insights into viral evolution.
Do we need post-tree thinning management? Prescribed fire and goat browsing to control woody encroacher species in an Ethiopian savanna
Authors: Abate Teshome , Abebe Tesfaye , Treydte Anna
Published: July 2024

Worldwide, bush encroachment threatens rangeland ecosystem services, including plant biodiversity and forage for livestock. Various control methods for encroaching woody species and restoring herbaceous vegetation exist but have rarely been explored experimentally. We assessed the impact of post-tree thinning management on tree mortality, the herbaceous community, and overall rangeland condition in Borana, an Ethiopian savanna ecosystem. At two 1.4 ha areas of encroached mono-specific Vachellia drepanolobium (whistling thorn) stands, we set up twenty-four 20 × 10 m experimental plots with four post-tree-thinning treatments (goat browsing only (1), prescribed fire (2), fire and goat browsing (3), and control (4) (i.e., no management after tree cutting), with three replications in a complete block design. Over two growing periods, we monitored resulting tree mortality, coppicing, seedling mortality and recruitment, as well as herbaceous layer attributes (diversity, biomass) and overall rangeland condition. All three post-tree thinning management scenarios significantly enhanced tree mortalities, reduced seedling recruitment and increased the abundance of the dominant desirable grass species. Prescribed fire and fire and goat-browsing treatments resulted in significantly greater grass and forb species richness, forb diversity, and biomass, as well as the overall rangeland condition compared to goat browsing only and the control treatment. However, grass species diversity did not respond to treatments. Post-tree management significantly increased tree mortality, reduced seedling recruitment, and increased the abundance of desirable grass species. Our findings strongly suggest that post-thinning management, particularly prescribed fire or a combination of fire and browsing, is highly effective in suppressing woody encroachment and improving biomass and overall rangeland condition.
Equity in Transportation Asset Management: A Proposed Framework
Authors: Arezoumand Sara , Smadi Omar
Published: July 2024

Transportation asset management has historically overlooked equity considerations. However, recently, there has been a significant increase in concerns about this issue, leading to a range of research and practices aimed at achieving more equitable outcomes. Yet, addressing equity is challenging and time-consuming, given its complexity and multifaceted nature. Several factors can significantly impact the outcome of an analysis, including the definition of equity, the evaluation and quantification of its impacts, and the community classification. As a result, there can be a wide range of interpretations of what constitutes equity. Therefore, there is no single correct or incorrect approach for equity evaluation, and different perspectives, impacts, and analysis methods could be considered for this purpose. This study reviews previous research on how transportation agencies are integrating equity into transportation asset management, particularly pavement management systems. The primary objective is to investigate important equity factors for pavement management and propose a prototype framework that integrates economic, environmental, and social equity considerations into the decision-making process for pavement maintenance, rehabilitation, and reconstruction projects. The proposed framework consists of two main steps: (1) defining objectives based on the three equity dimensions, and (2) analyzing key factors for identifying underserved areas through a case study approach. The case study analyzed pavement condition and sociodemographic data for California’s Bay Area. Statistical analysis and a machine learning method revealed that areas with higher poverty rates and worse air quality tend to have poorer pavement conditions, highlighting the need to consider these factors when defining underserved areas in Bay Area and promoting equity in pavement management decision-making. The proposed framework incorporates an optimization problem to simultaneously minimize disparities in pavement conditions between underserved and other areas, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from construction and traffic disruptions, and maximize overall network pavement condition subject to budget constraints. By incorporating all three equity aspects into a quantitative decision-support framework with specific objectives, this study proposes a novel approach for transportation agencies to promote sustainable and equitable asset management practices.
Experimental Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Printed Circuit Board Strain-Based Methodology in Space-Borne Electronics with Vertically Mounted Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Kim Kwang-Woo , Park Jae-Hyeon , Park Tae-Yong , Oh Hyun-Ung
Published: July 2024

The Oh-Park methodology was proposed to overcome the limitations of Steinberg’s theory for evaluating the structural safety of space-borne electronics and has been experimentally verified at the printed circuit board (PCB) specimen level for various types of electronic packages, such as ball grid arrays (BGAs), column grid arrays (CGAs), and small-outline packages (SOPs). However, it is necessary to validate the design methodology because the PCB mounted on the housing is affected by the elastic mode of the mechanical housing. In addition, although the validity of the existing theory based on critical strain has been verified for horizontally mounted structures, there are cases where PCBs are mounted vertically. Therefore, it is essential to consider the dynamic influence of the boundary conditions of mounted electronics. In this study, electronics specimens with corresponding boundary conditions were fabricated, and a fatigue-life test was performed. In addition, a structural analysis using Steinberg’s theory and the Oh-Park methodology was performed, and the results were compared with those of the fatigue-life test. The results showed that the analysis using the Oh-Park methodology accurately represented the test results, and the validity of the Oh-Park methodology for vertical electronics was verified experimentally.
Identifying the Restoration Stages of Degraded Alpine Meadow Patches Using Hyperspectral Imaging and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Luo Wei , Wang Lu , Cui Lulu , Zheng Min , Li Xilai , Li Chengyi
Published: July 2024

The accurate identification of different restoration stages of degraded alpine meadow patches is essential to effectively curb the deterioration trend of ‘Heitutan’ (areas of severely degraded alpine meadows in western China). In this study, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and machine learning techniques were used to develop a method for accurately distinguishing the different restoration stages of alpine meadow patches. First, hyperspectral images representing the four restoration stages of degraded alpine meadow patches were collected, and spectral reflectance, vegetation indexes (VIs), color features (CFs), and texture features (TFs) were extracted. Secondly, valid features were selected by competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), ReliefF, recursive feature elimination (RFE), and F-test algorithms. Finally, four machine learning models, including the support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbor (KNN), random forest (RF), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), were constructed. The results demonstrated that the SVM model based on the optimal wavelengths (OWs) and prominent VIs achieved the best value of accuracy (0.9320), precision (0.9369), recall (0.9308), and F1 score (0.9299). In addition, the models that combine multiple sets of preferred features showed a significant performance improvement over the models that relied only on a single set of preferred features. Overall, the method combined with HSI and machine learning technology showed excellent reliability and effectiveness in identifying the restoration stages of meadow patches, and provided an effective reference for the formulation of grassland degradation management measures.