bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of sustained-release CARvedilol in patients with hypErtension and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial (CARE-preserved HF)
Authors: Yoon Minjae , Park Sung-Ji , Yoo Byung-Su , Choi Dong-Ju
Published: April 2024

Background

Although beta-blockers improve clinical outcomes in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, the benefit of beta-blockers in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is uncertain. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a robust predictor of heart failure outcomes, and recent studies have shown that beta-blockers are associated with improved survival in those with low GLS (GLS <14%) but not in those with GLS ≥14% among patients with LVEF ≥40%. Therefore, the objective of this trial is to evaluate the effect of sustained-release carvedilol (carvedilol-SR) on the outcome [N-terminal pro-B-natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentration] in patients with hypertension and HFpEF and will assess the differential effects of these drugs on the outcome, according to the GLS categories.

Methods

This prospective randomized double-blind multicenter trial (CARE-preserved HF) will include 100 patients with HFpEF from three tertiary hospitals in South Korea. Patients with HFpEF and hypertension aged ≥20 years who have evidence of functional and structural heart disease on echocardiography and elevated natriuretic peptide will be enrolled. Eligible participants will be randomized 1:1 to either the carvedilol-SR group (n = 50) or the placebo group (n = 50). Patients in the carvedilol-SR group will receive 8, 16, 32, or 64 mg carvedilol-SR once daily for 6 months, and the dose of carvedilol will be up-titrated at the discretion of the treating physicians. The primary efficacy outcome was the time-averaged proportional change in N-terminal pro-B-natriuretic peptide concentration from baseline to months 3 and 6. We will also evaluate the differential effects of carvedilol-SR on primary outcomes according to GLS, using a cut-off of 14% or the median value.

Discussion

This randomized controlled trial will investigate the efficacy and safety of carvedilol-SR in patients with HFpEF and hypertension.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrial.gov, identifier NCT05553314.
Poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) as a polyethylene glycol alternative for lipid nanoparticle formulation
Authors: van Zyl Dwain George , Mendes Livia Palmerston , Semper Raphaela Patricia , Rueckert Christine , Baumhof Patrick
Published: April 2024

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as the platform of choice for mRNA delivery. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is considered a key component of currently approved LNP-based delivery systems as it ensures particle stability and shapes various facets of LNP behavior in biological systems. Whilst PEG has numerous characteristics that are favorable for delivery systems, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that it is immunogenic. Thus, next-generation mRNA therapeutics are likely to benefit from the identification of PEG alternatives. Towards this end, we have assessed the suitability of poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (PMOZ) for LNP-based mRNA delivery. We compared the properties and bioactivities of PMOZ-containing LNPs to that of a standard composition that includes PEG. Decreasing the percentage of PMOZ in formulations improved transfection efficiency and enhanced the immunostimulatory potential. Reducing the PMOZ density was shown to enhanced antigen-specific T-cell responses in vivo. Interestingly, we found that this was not the case for antibody responses. A direct comparison between LNPs that contain the same amount of PEG or PMOZ strongly suggests that the former induces stronger CD8+ T-cell responses while the latter induces superior neutralizing titers. These findings augur well for the further development of PMOZ as a PEG replacement for LNP-based mRNA delivery approaches.
Exploring actors' collaborations and involvement in the Namibian learner pregnancy policy
Authors: Shiningayamwe Dorthea Nanghali Etuwete , Takeuchi Shinichi
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The Namibia Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy (ESPPMLP) aims to reduce the cases of learners falling pregnant and increase learner-parent completion of education. The ESPPMLP addresses the fact that learner pregnancy and school drop-out are collaborative efforts between parents, the community, schools, and non-governmental organizations. However, Namibia continues to have had a problem with the high rate of learner pregnancy and school drop-out for many years. Previous studies reported the absences and limitations of both internal and external actors' collaboration in its implementation. This paper aims to clarify the lack of stakeholder involvement and cooperation in the ESPPMLP activities within selected rural schools in Namibia.

Methods

Using the qualitative approach mixed with phenomenological and content data analysis, the study conducted 19 individual interviews with schoolteachers, one school board member, one NGO representative, and six focus group discussions with 27 parents.

Results and findings

Among others, results show the limited life skills of teachers in schools, the attitude of the community toward schoolteachers, making them feel devoid of influence in collaborations, and the lack of sexual reproductive activities programs in school settings. The findings reveal the reliance of the activities of prevention and management of learner pregnancy on donor-driven initiatives, the lack of task forces at the community level, the shortage of knowledge and understanding about the ESPPMLP and the lack of policy implementation guidelines. Establish learner pregnancy leadership structures at the community level for coordination, introduce community parenting, and execute partnership of monitoring activities to boost stakeholder collaborations.
A glimpse of social presence during an organic chemistry group activity
Authors: Ballard Joy , Winfield Leyte
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The US must strengthen the STEM workforce to provide solutions that support a resilient society and robust economy. Such solutions require a range of perspectives from individuals with diverse identities. However, women and individuals who identify as a racial or ethnic minority are woefully underrepresented in the STEM workforce. The reality doubly impacts those with intersecting identities, such as Black women. Efforts to increase the representation of Black women in STEM disciplines include interventions that improve their success in undergraduate courses. Paramount to this is expanding understanding of the experiences of Black women in the academic setting. The current work is situated within the social presence of the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework, examining social talk among Black women in the learning environment. The CoI model holds that the interconnection between teaching, cognitive, and social presences influences how students engage to master course content. More specifically, each presence is critical for the student’s ability to connect with their peers and instructor and engage in discourse related to the application of information.

Methods

The characterization of social presence was captured through audio and visual recordings. The videos were examined for academic and non-academic social talk. The group examined consisted of four Black women at a HBCU.

Results

Instances of social talk were captured that aligned with affective and emotional expression, open communication, and group cohesion. The dialog was both academic in nature, corresponding to the task, and non-academic, unrelated to the task.

Discussion

Few studies have been done to characterize CoI in academic spaces consisting only of Black women. Disaggregating the stories of Black women from the broader context provides the visibility needed to understand their experiences and imagine a STEM paradigm responsive to their existence. Such knowledge is critical to understanding better how women, particularly women of African descent, navigate the learning environment. The article provides a preliminary look at Black women in an active learning setting to shed light on the experiences of these individuals in the STEM context.
Evolving engineering education: online vs. in-person capstone projects compared (EEE-OIPC)
Authors: Znidi Faycal , Uddin Md. Nizam , Morsy Mohamed
Published: April 2024

This study examines the effectiveness of online and face-to-face (F2F) instructional methods in Capstone Senior Design (CSD) projects within Electrical Engineering (EE) and Mechanical Engineering (ME). It explores how each mode influences student success and learning outcomes, addressing the need for adaptable teaching strategies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. A comprehensive assessment was conducted, which included project evaluations, advisor feedback, and self-peer reviews. This multifaceted approach aimed to gauge the relative efficacy of online versus F2F modalities in supporting educational outcomes. The findings indicated that both online and F2F modalities achieved parity on several metrics. However, F2F settings significantly enhanced teamwork and collaboration among students. In contrast, online environments excelled in advisor evaluations, suggesting effective mentorship despite less consistent teamwork and project execution. The results emphasize the potential benefits of integrating online and traditional pedagogies to improve educational strategies and student learning experiences. The study highlights the importance of developing online instructional strategies that better mimic the collaborative advantages of F2F instruction. It also underscores the need for a holistic approach to curriculum development to prepare STEM students effectively for future challenges.
Association of genetically determined chronotype with circulating testosterone: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ichikawa Tomohiro , Kobayashi Takuro , Hachiya Tsuyoshi , Ikehata Yoshihiro , Isotani Shuji , Ide Hisamitsu , Horie Shigeo
Published: April 2024

Low testosterone levels in men have been linked to decreased physical and mental function, as well as a reduced quality of life. Previous prospective observational studies have suggested an association between testosterone and sleep traits, but the causality of this relationship remains unclear. We aimed to explore the potential causal link between genetically determined sleep traits and testosterone levels in men using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis from the UK Biobank dataset. Our exposures were genetic variants associated with sleep traits (chronotype and sleep duration), whereas our outcomes were traits of sex steroid hormones (total testosterone, TT; bioavailable testosterone, BAT; and sex hormone-binding globulin, SHBG). We employed inverse variance weighted (IVW) and weighted median (WM) methods to assess the causal associations. The IVW method offers a robust estimate of causality, whereas the WM method provides reliable results even when some genetic variants are invalid instruments. Our main analysis involving sex steroid hormones and chronotype identified 155 chronotype-related variants. The primary findings from the analysis, which used chronotype as the exposure and sex steroid hormones as the outcomes, showed that a genetically predicted chronotype score was significantly associated with an increased levels of TT (association coefficient β, 0.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02–0.14; P = 0.008) and BAT (β, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.02–0.14; P = 0.007), whereas there was no significant association with SHBG (β, 0.01; 95% CI, −0.02–0.03; P = 0.64). Meanwhile, MR analysis of sex steroid hormones and sleep duration was performed, and 69 variants associated with sleep duration were extracted. There were no significant association between sleep duration and sex steroid hormones (TT, P = 0.91; BAT, P = 0.82; and SHBG, P = 0.95). Our data support a causal association between chronotype and circulating testosterone levels in men. These findings underscore a potential causal relationship between chronotype and testosterone levels in men, suggesting that lifestyle adjustments are crucial for men’s health. Recognizing factors that influence testosterone is essential. One limitation of this study is the use of one-sample MR, which can introduce potential bias due to non-independence of genetic associations for exposure and outcome. In conclusion, our findings indicate that a morning preference is correlated with circulating testosterone levels, emphasizing the potential impact of lifestyle habits on testosterone levels in men.
Non-targeted metabolomics revealed novel links between serum metabolites and primary ovarian insufficiency: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Shuang , Zhou Zhaokai , Zhou Zihan , Liu Yu , Sun Shihao , Huang Kai , Yang Qingling , Guo Yihong
Published: April 2024

Background

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a common clinical endocrine disorder with a high heterogeneity in both endocrine hormones and etiological phenotypes. However, the etiology of POI remains unclear. Herein, we unraveled the causality of genetically determined metabolites (GDMs) on POI through Mendelian randomization (MR) study with the overarching goal of disclosing underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Genetic links with 486 metabolites were retrieved from GWAS data of 7824 European participants as exposures, while GWAS data concerning POI were utilized as the outcome. Via MR analysis, we selected inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method for primary analysis and several additional MR methods (MR-Egger, weighted median, and MR-PRESSO) for sensitivity analyses. MR-Egger intercept and Cochran’s Q statistical analysis were conducted to assess potential heterogeneity and pleiotropy. In addition, genetic variations in the key target metabolite were scrutinized further. We conducted replication, meta-analysis, and linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) to reinforce our findings. The MR Steiger test and reverse MR analysis were utilized to assess the robustness of genetic directionality. Furthermore, to deeply explore causality, we performed colocalization analysis and metabolic pathway analysis.

Results

Via IVW methods, our study identified 33 metabolites that might exert a causal effect on POI development. X-11437 showed a robustly significant relationship with POI in four MR analysis methods (PIVW=0.0119; Pweighted-median =0.0145; PMR-Egger =0.0499; PMR-PRESSO =0.0248). Among the identified metabolites, N-acetylalanine emerged as the most significant in the primary MR analysis using IVW method, reinforcing its pivotal status as a serum biomarker indicative of an elevated POI risk with the most notable P-value (PIVW=0.0007; PMR-PRESSO =0.0022). Multiple analyses were implemented to further demonstrate the reliability and stability of our deduction of causality. Reverse MR analysis did not provide evidence for the causal effects of POI on 33 metabolites. Colocalization analysis revealed that some causal associations between metabolites and POI might be driven by shared genetic variants.

Conclusion

By incorporating genomics with metabolomics, this study sought to offer a comprehensive analysis in causal impact of serum metabolome phenotypes on risks of POI with implications for underlying mechanisms, disease screening and prevention.
Which factors affect the live birth outcome of the first single euploid frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer in couples with balanced chromosomal translocations?
Authors: Zhang Ruixiao , Hu Yahui , Cui Chenchen , Zhang Cuilian
Published: April 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate the factors that influence the live birth rate (LBR) of the first single euploid frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer (FBT) cycles after preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements (PGT-SR) in couples with balanced chromosomal translocations (BCT).

Design

Single center, retrospective and observational study.

Methods

A total of 336 PGT-SR and the first single euploid FBT cycles between July 2016 and December 2022 were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups according to the live birth outcomes. The parameters of the study population, controlled ovarian stimulation cycles, and FBT cycles were analyzed. Multivariable binary logistic regression was performed to find the factors that affected the LBR.

Results

The percentage of blastocysts at developmental stage Day 5 compared to Day 6 (51.8% vs. 30.8%; P<0.001) and with morphology ≥BB compared to <BB (49.7% vs. 32.2%; P=0.001) was significantly different between the group that resulted in live births (n=193) and the group that did not (n=143). The results of the multivariable binary logistic regression analysis indicated that the developmental stage (adjusted OR: 2.068, 95%CI 1.291-3.313; P=0.003) and morphology (adjusted OR: 1.697, 95%CI 1.039-2.773; P=0.035) of the blastocyst were significantly correlated with live birth. Patients with blastocysts that reached the developmental stage at Day 5 and had a morphology of ≥BB had a higher likelihood of having a live birth.

Conclusion

The developmental stage and morphology of blastocyst affect the live birth outcome of the first single euploid FBT in BCT carriers undergoing PGT-SR.
Endometrium development patterns and BMI groups among in vitro fertilization patients; prognostic aspects
Authors: Vedelek Viktor , Bicskei Petra , Tábi Mariann , Lajkó Noémi , Ékes Csaba , Bereczki Kristóf , Meixner-Csáti Zsófia , Sinka Rita , Vágvölgyi Anna , Zádori János
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The impact of the obesity pandemic on female reproductive capability is a factor that needs to be investigated. In addition, the link between endometrial thickness and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes is contentious.

Goal

Our goal was to analyze the association among endometrium development, hormone levels, embryo quality, clinical pregnancy, anamnestic parameters, and body mass index (BMI) in women receiving IVF treatment.

Patients and methods

537 participants undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles with successful oocyte retrieval were enrolled. Subjects were divided into four BMI based groups: underweight (UW; n=32), normal weight (NW; n=324), overweight (OW; n= 115), obesity (OB; n=66). Anthropometric and anamnestic parameters, characteristics of stimulation, endometrial thickness on the day of hCG injection, at puncture, at embryo transfer, FSH, LH, AMH, partner’s age and the semen analysis indicators, embryo quality, clinical pregnancy, were recorded and analyzed. Support Vector Machine (SVM) was built to predict potential pregnancies based on medical data using 22 dimensions.

Results

In accordance with BMI categories, when examining pregnant/non-pregnant division, the average age of pregnant women was significantly lower in the UW (30.9 ± 4.48 vs. 35.3 ± 5.49 years, p=0.022), NW (34.2 ± 4.25 vs. 36.3 ± 4.84 years, p<0.001), and OW (33.8 ± 4.89 vs. 36.3 ± 5.31 years, p=0.009) groups. Considering FSH, LH, and AMH levels in each BMI category, a statistically significant difference was observed only in the NW category FSH was significantly lower (7.8 ± 2.99 vs. 8.6 ± 3.50 IU/L, p=0.032) and AMH (2.87 ± 2.40 vs. 2.28 ± 2.01 pmol/L, p=0.021) was higher in pregnant women. There were no further statistically significant differences observed between the pregnant and non-pregnant groups across any BMI categories, especially concerning endometrial development. Surprisingly, BMI and weight correlated negatively with FSH (r=-0.252, p<0.001; r=-0.206, p<0.001, respectively) and LH (r= -0.213, p<0.001; r= -0.195, p<0.001) in the whole population. SVM model average accuracy on predictions was 61.71%.

Discussion

A convincing correlation between endometrial thickness development and patients’ BMI could not be substantiated. However, FSH and LH levels exhibited a surprising decreasing trend with increasing BMI, supporting the evolutionary selective role of nutritional status. Our SVM model outperforms previous models; however, to confidently predict the outcome of embryo transfer, further optimization is necessary.
Effectiveness of leuprolide acetate administered monthly compared to three-monthly in the treatment of central precocious puberty: evaluation at the end of treatment
Authors: Thaneetrakool Thanaporn , Aroonparkmongkol Suphab , Numsriskulrat Nattakarn , Supornsilchai Vichit , Wacharasindhu Suttipong , Srilanchakon Khomsak
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs are the standard treatment for central precocious puberty (CPP). Although there are numerous varieties of GnRH agonists, the effectiveness of 1-monthly compared with 3-monthly Leuprolide acetate is still restricted. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of CPP treatment with Leuprolide acetate at a 1-monthly dosage of 3.75 mg, in comparison to a dosage of 11.25 mg administered every 3 months.

Method

This retrospective cohort study involved 143 girls diagnosed with CPP with 72 of them receiving the monthly treatment regimen and 71 receiving the 3-monthly treatment regimen. Anthropometric measurements were compared at the start and end of the therapy. The rates and level of LH suppression were assessed six months after therapy.

Results

The regimen administered every 3 months showed more significant suppression of LH. The 3-monthly group showed lower actual height and degree of bone age advancement at the end of therapy. However, the predicted adult height (PAH) remained comparable in both groups.

Conclusion

The 3-monthly treatment showed greater hormonal and growth suppression effects, but there was no significant difference in PAH between the two groups.
A data-driven ensemble technique for the detection of false data injection attacks in the smart grid framework
Authors: Gupta Tania , Bhatia Richa , Sharma Sachin , Reddy Ch. Rami , AboRas Kareem M. , Mobarak Wael
Published: April 2024

The major component of the smart grid (SG) is the advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), which monitors and controls the existing power system and provides interactive services for invoicing and electricity usage management with the utility. Including a cyber-layer in the metering system allows two-way communication but creates a new opportunity for energy theft, resulting in significant monetary loss. This article proposes an approach to detecting abnormal consumption patterns using energy metering data based on the ensemble technique AdaBoost, a boosting algorithm. Different statistical and descriptive features are retrieved from metering data samples, which account for extreme conditions. The model is trained for malicious and non-malicious data for five different attack scenarios, which are analyzed on the Irish Social Science Data Archive (ISSDA) smart meter dataset. In contrast to prior supervised techniques, it works well even with unbalanced data. The efficacy of the proposed theft detection method has been evaluated by comparing the accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score with the other well-known approaches in the literature.
Environmental measurement study of double-aging neighborhoods under the EPA-S model in China
Authors: Mingyu Chen , Cao Gan , Lanchun Bian
Published: April 2024

The “double aging” problem of the aging population and the simultaneous aging of the community's physical environment will become a huge challenge in highly urbanized areas of the world, and China's performance is becoming more and more obvious, affecting the physical and mental health and quality of life of the elderly. Nowadays, the paradigm of solving the double aging problem with the concept of “active aging” is gaining international acceptance, which means the elderly are centered on the design and construction of a community environment that maintains their ability to live independently and promotes active social interaction in urban regeneration. However, existing research still has shortcomings in how to apply the perspective of active aging to establish an indicator system for evaluating the built environment of “double aging” neighborhoods and formulate action strategies. The study constructs a theoretical analysis framework of EPA-S (E-Environment supports, P-Personal abilities, A-Activity behaviors, S-State of healthy and active life) from the perspective of active aging and builds the model based on that. This observational study designed the survey content and collected sample data in four typical double-aging neighborhoods in Beijing for multi-layer linear regression analysis to verify the reliability of the model and the correlation between indicators. It found that the design of the “EPA-S” model has a certain degree of credibility. In addition to personal socioeconomic factors, active living abilities, and material environmental support also have a significant impact on the mental health and happiness of the elderly. Specifically, being more involved in community public affairs and collective cultural and recreational activities, and better improving the quality of public activity venues and service facilities within walking distance of the elderly are related to the elderly maintaining good physical and mental health. The “EPA-S” model established in this study can be used as a reference tool to evaluate the active aging level of “double-aging” neighborhoods. At the same time, the analysis results of each variable also provide important inspiration for formulating specific neighborhoods' regeneration strategies.
Evaluating the impact of urban landscape elements on the sense of security and local belonging-case study: Tongdejie, China
Authors: Zhu Yue , Du Ruichao
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The urban landscape is a pivotal element shaping the urban space and significantly influences its desirability or undesirability. It has a profound connection with people and their living environment, playing a crucial role in providing identity and a sense of peace to citizens. As urbanization expands and population density increases, the importance of security as a basic need within the urban structure becomes even more significant. A confusing, unattractive, or monotonous urban space can adversely affect citizens’ feelings and reduce their sense of security.

Methods: In this research, we investigated the relationship between urban landscape components and the sense of local belonging, as well as the relationship between the sense of security and the urban landscape. We sought to understand how the design and planning of the urban landscape can have a positive impact on urban life and increase citizens’ sense of belonging to the city and its surroundings.

Results: Our findings revealed a positive and significant correlation between the sense of local belonging and the sense of security. Living in a safe, attractive, and desirable environment fosters and strengthens feelings of belonging to the environment. This strengthening of the sense of belonging increases residents’ satisfaction and enhances the quality of life in cities.

Discussion: The urban landscape serves as a powerful tool that, when optimally designed, can positively influence urban life and enhance citizens’ sense of belonging to their city and its surrounding environment. By prioritizing security and creating aesthetically pleasing and engaging urban spaces, cities can significantly improve the well-being and quality of life of their residents.
Use of remote sensing and image processing for identification of wild orchids
Authors: Ahmed Shara , Lightbown Jack , Rutter Simon R. , Basu Nabanita , Nicholson Catherine E. , Perry Justin J. , Dean John R.
Published: April 2024

A novel multi-technique approach has been applied for the identification and mapping of wild orchids using a combination of remote sensing and spectral image analysis. The five orchid species identified were the common spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsia), heath spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata), pyramidal orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis), heath fragrant-orchid (Gymnadenia borealis), and the dark-red helleborine (Epipactis atrorubens). Field studies have been done using a hand-held spectrometer operating in the 400–700 nm visible spectrum, photogrammetry using a digital camera as well as a multispectral image camera operating at the specific spectral bands of 450 nm (blue), 560 nm (green), 650 nm (red), 730 nm (red edge) and 840 nm (near-infrared) attached to an unmanned aerial vehicle Data analysis, using the hand-held spectrometer, followed by pattern recognition using principal component analysis and partial least squares-discriminant analysis, have identified the key distinguishing wavelengths for identification of the 5 orchid types as 400, 410, 420 and 560 nm. The use of remote sensing, using the UAV-MSI, and application of a dedicated spectral index has enabled field identification of the orchids. Finally, object-based image analysis of field gathered photogrammetry imagery, has enabled use of shape, size, and color to identify and distinguish orchid species. The developed data analytic tool, using random forest classification, can be used to identify and characterize wild orchids across multiple sites within their short lifespan with an accuracy of 86%. Any longer-term study would provide invaluable information on the diversity and complexity of orchid habitat, population variation both intra- and inter-site location, as well as the impact of climate change.
Atmospheric constraints on changing Arctic CH4 emissions
Authors: Lan Xin , Dlugokencky Edward J.
Published: April 2024

Rapid warming in the Arctic has the potential to release vast reservoirs of carbon into the atmosphere as methane (CH4) resulting in a strong positive climate feedback. This raises the concern that, after a period of near-zero growth in atmospheric CH4 burden from 1999 to 2006, the increase since then may be in part related to increased Arctic emissions. Measurements of CH4 in background air samples provide useful, direct information to determine if Arctic CH4 emissions are increasing. One sensitive first-order indicator for large emission change is the Interpolar Difference, that is the difference in surface atmospheric annual means between polar northern and southern zones (53°–90°), which has varied interannually, but did not increase from 1992 to 2019. The Interpolar Difference has increased moderately during 2020–2022 when the global CH4 burden increased significantly, but not yet to its peak values in the late-1980s. For quantitative assessment of changing Arctic CH4 emissions, the atmospheric measurements must be combined with an atmospheric tracer transport model. Based on multiple studies including some using CH4 isotopes, it is clear that most of the increase in global atmospheric CH4 burden is driven by increased emissions from microbial sources in the tropics, and that Arctic emissions have not increased significantly since the beginning of our measurement record in 1983 through 2022.
Representativeness of a national, probability-based panel survey of COVID-19 isolation practices—United States, 2020–2022
Authors: Matulewicz Holly H. , Vohra Divya , Crawford-Crudell Willow , Oeltmann John E. , Moonan Patrick K. , Taylor Melanie M. , Couzens Chandra , Weiss Andy
Published: April 2024

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received surveillance data on how many people tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, but there was little information about what individuals did to mitigate transmission. To fill the information gap, we conducted an online, probability-based survey among a nationally representative panel of adults living in the United States to better understand the behaviors of individuals following a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result. Given the low response rates commonly associated with panel surveys, we assessed how well the survey data aligned with CDC surveillance data from March, 2020 to March, 2022. We used CDC surveillance data to calculate monthly aggregated COVID-19 case counts and compared these to monthly COVID-19 case counts captured by our survey during the same period. We found high correlation between our overall survey data estimates and monthly case counts reported to the CDC during the analytic period (r: +0.94; p < 0.05). When stratified according to demographic characteristics, correlations remained high. These correlations strengthened our confidence that the panel survey participants were reflective of the cases reported to CDC and demonstrated the potential value of panel surveys to inform decision making.
Genomic prediction based on a joint reference population for the Xinjiang Brown cattle
Authors: Zhang Menghua , Xu Lei , Lu Haibo , Luo Hanpeng , Zhou Jinghang , Wang Dan , Zhang Xiaoxue , Huang Xixia , Wang Yachun
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Xinjiang Brown cattle constitute the largest breed of cattle in Xinjiang. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a genomic evaluation system, especially for those with low levels of breed improvement.

Methods: This study aimed to establish a cross breed joint reference population by analyzing the genetic structure of 485 Xinjiang Brown cattle and 2,633 Chinese Holstein cattle (Illumina GeneSeek GGP bovine 150 K chip). The Bayes method single-step genome-wide best linear unbiased prediction was used to conduct a genomic evaluation of the joint reference population for the milk traits of Xinjiang Brown cattle. The reference population of Chinese Holstein cattle was randomly divided into groups to construct the joint reference population. By comparing the prediction accuracy, estimation bias, and inflation coefficient of the validation population, the optimal number of joint reference populations was determined.

Results and Discussion: The results indicated a distinct genetic structure difference between the two breeds of adult cows, and both breeds should be considered when constructing multi-breed joint reference and validation populations. The reliability range of genome prediction of milk traits in the joint reference population was 0.142–0.465. Initially, it was determined that the inclusion of 600 and 900 Chinese Holstein cattle in the joint reference population positively impacted the genomic prediction of Xinjiang Brown cattle to certain extent. It was feasible to incorporate the Chinese Holstein into Xinjiang Brown cattle population to form a joint reference population for multi-breed genomic evaluation. However, for different Xinjiang Brown cattle populations, a fixed number of Chinese Holstein cattle cannot be directly added during multi-breed genomic selection. Pre-evaluation analysis based on the genetic structure, kinship, and other factors of the current population is required to ensure the authenticity and reliability of genomic predictions and improve estimation accuracy.
Macrophages in guided bone regeneration: potential roles and future directions
Authors: Gou Min , Wang Hang , Xie Huiqi , Song Hongjie
Published: April 2024

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is one of the most widely used and thoroughly documented alveolar bone augmentation surgeries. However, implanting GBR membranes inevitably triggers an immune response, which can lead to inflammation and failure of bone augmentation. It has been shown that GBR membranes may significantly improve in vivo outcomes as potent immunomodulators, rather than solely serving as traditional barriers. Macrophages play crucial roles in immune responses and participate in the entire process of bone injury repair. The significant diversity and high plasticity of macrophages complicate our understanding of the immunomodulatory mechanisms underlying GBR. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent findings on the potential role of macrophages in GBR for bone defects in situ. Specifically, macrophages can promote osteogenesis or fibrous tissue formation in bone defects and degradation or fibrous encapsulation of membranes. Moreover, GBR membranes can influence the recruitment and polarization of macrophages. Therefore, immunomodulating GBR membranes are primarily developed by improving macrophage recruitment and aggregation as well as regulating macrophage polarization. However, certain challenges remain to be addressed in the future. For example, developing more rational and sophisticated sequential delivery systems for macrophage activation reagents; addressing the interference of bone graft materials and dental implants; and understanding the correlations among membrane degradation, macrophage responses, and bone regeneration.
Transcriptome and metabolome for identifying key metabolites impacting the Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Jin Jiaojiao , Chen Nanxiong , Hu Yicheng , Chen Yibin , Yin Bin , Wang Xu , Shen Yuchun , Li Sedong
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Shrimp is an important aquaculture species worldwide. Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) is an opportunistic pathogen of Litopenaeus vannamei that can cause diseases such as acute hepatopancreatic necrotic disease (AHPND), resulting in significant losses to the shrimp farming industry.

Methods

In this study, We analyzed two shrimp populations by transcriptomics and non-targeted metabolomics, which exhibited significant differences in resistance to VP. Through integrated analysis, we identified genes and metabolites linked to the development of shrimp's resistance to VP.

Results and discussion

The analysis revealed that the differential metabolism of flavonoid compounds, especially quercetin, significantly influences the expression of shrimp's resistance to VP. Supplementing feed with an appropriate quantity of quercetin has the potential to increase the expression of crucial genes in the NF-κB pathway, including TLR and AP1, along with the expression of the antibacterial peptide crustin, resulting in a decreased mortality rate. Together, these results indicate that an appropriate amount of quercetin can strengthen the immune response of shrimp to VP, thereby reducing the incidence of AHPND.
Clinical factors associated with subsequent surgical intervention in women undergoing early medical termination of viable or non-viable pregnancies
Authors: Au Heng-Kien , Liu Chi-Feng , Chien Li-Wei
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Mifepristone-misoprostol treatment for medical abortion and miscarriage are safe and effective. This study aimed to assess clinical factors associated with subsequent surgical intervention after medical termination of early viable or non-viable pregnancy.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center study included women who underwent medical abortion at Taipei Medical University between January 2010 and December 2019. A total of 1,561 subjects, with 1,080 viable and 481 non-viable pregnancies, who were treated with oral mifepristone 600 mg followed by misoprostol 600 mg 48 h later were included. Data of all pregnancies and medical termination of pregnancy were evaluated using regression analysis. The main outcome was successful termination of pregnancy.

Results

The success rate of medical abortion was comparable in women with viable and non-viable (92.13% vs. 92.93%) pregnancies. Besides retained tissue, more existing pregnancies with ultrasonographic findings were found in the non-viable pregnancy group than in the viable pregnancy group (29.4% vs. 14.1%, p = 0.011). Multivariate analysis showed that previous delivery was an independent risk factor for failed medical abortion among all included cases. In women with viable pregnancy, longer gestational age [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.483, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.224–1.797, p < 0.001] and previous Cesarean delivery (aOR: 2.177, 95% CI: 1.167–40.62, p = 0.014) were independent risk factors for failed medical abortion. Number of Cesarean deliveries (aOR: 1.448, 95% CI: 1.029–2.039, p = 0.034) was an independent risk factor for failed medication abortion in women with non-viable pregnancies.

Conclusion

This is the first cohort study to identify risk factors for subsequent surgical intervention in women with viable or non-viable pregnancies who had undergone early medically induced abortions. The success rate of medical abortion is comparable in women with viable and non-viable pregnancies. Previous delivery is an independent risk factor for failed medical abortion. Clinical follow-up may be necessary for women who are at risk of subsequent surgical intervention.
Knowledge and attitudes about vitamin A consumption and its relationship with night blindness in university students
Authors: Suparmi Suparmi , Prasetya Harka , Rahmawati Atik , Lailaulaan Millam Shinta
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Night blindness is the first sign of vitamin A deficiency (VAD), which can lead to blindness if left untreated. University students may be at risk of VAD-related night blindness due to unhealthy eating attitudes and inadequate vitamin A intake. This study aimed to determine the relationship between knowledge and attitudes toward vitamin A consumption affecting night blindness in university students.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 409 third-year university students of Universitas Islam Sultan Agung, Semarang, Indonesia. Participants completed questionnaires about socio-demographics, their knowledge of vitamin A, and attitudes toward vitamin A consumption. Night blindness symptoms among university students were assessed using the Low Luminance Questionnaire (LLQ), followed by a bivariate analysis of the Chi-Square test. Multivariate binary logistic regressions were used to determine whether the independent variables were associated with night blindness. A p-value less than 0.05 indicated significance.

Results

The prevalence of high-symptom night blindness was higher among males (26.4%) than females (5.7%). Out of 409 university students, 48 from the non-medicine cluster of the study program had a night blindness symptom. The prevalence was lower in students who studied in the medicine cluster program. The level of knowledge on vitamin A had a significant relationship with symptoms of night blindness [prevalence ratio (PR) = 2.239 (95% CI = 1.110–4.516)]. The attitudes toward vitamin A consumption were significantly associated with night blindness (PR = 2.560, 95% CI = 1.215–5.392).

Discussion

The results of this study show that the risk of night blindness in university students can be prevented by increasing their knowledge and attitudes toward consuming vitamin A-rich food. The university can provide health promotion and vitamin A supplementation to avoid night blindness among academia.
CSF pulsations measured in Parkinson’s disease patients using EPI-based fMRI data
Authors: Kim Jun-Hee , Kim Suhong , Im Jae-Geun , Chung Seok Jong , Lee Phil Hyu , Jeong Yong , Park Sung-Hong
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow is involved in brain waste clearance and may be impaired in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the CSF pulsation and the development of dementia in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients using EPI-based fMRI.

Methods

We measured CSF pulsation in the 4th ventricle of 17 healthy controls and 35 PD patients using a novel CSF pulsation index termed “CSFpulse” based on echo-planar imaging (EPI)-based fMRI. The PD patients were classified into a PD with dementia high-risk group (PDD-H, n = 19) and a low risk group (PDD-L, n = 16), depending on their development of dementia within 5 years after initial brain imaging. The size of the 4th ventricle was measured using intensity-based thresholding.

Results

We found that CSF pulsation was significantly higher in PD patients than in healthy controls, and that PD patients with high risk of dementia (PDD-H) had the highest CSF pulsation. We also observed an enlargement of the 4th ventricle in PD patients compared to healthy controls.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that CSF pulsation may be a potential biomarker for PD progression and cognitive decline, and that EPI-based fMRI can be a useful tool for studying CSF flow and brain function in PD.
Comparison of the connectivity of the posterior intralaminar thalamic nucleus and peripeduncular nucleus in rats and mice
Authors: Cai Hui-Ru , Chen Sheng-Qiang , Xiang Xiao-Jun , Zhang Xue-Qin , Ma Run-Zhe , Zhu Ge , Ding Song-Lin
Published: April 2024

The posterior intralaminar thalamic nucleus (PIL) and peripeduncular nucleus (PP) are two adjoining structures located medioventral to the medial geniculate nucleus. The PIL-PP region plays important roles in auditory fear conditioning and in social, maternal and sexual behaviors. Previous studies often lumped the PIL and PP into single entity, and therefore it is not known if they have common and/or different brain-wide connections. In this study, we investigate brain-wide efferent and afferent projections of the PIL and PP using reliable anterograde and retrograde tracing methods. Both PIL and PP project strongly to lateral, medial and anterior basomedial amygdaloid nuclei, posteroventral striatum (putamen and external globus pallidus), amygdalostriatal transition area, zona incerta, superior and inferior colliculi, and the ectorhinal cortex. However, the PP rather than the PIL send stronger projections to the hypothalamic regions such as preoptic area/nucleus, anterior hypothalamic nucleus, and ventromedial nucleus of hypothalamus. As for the afferent projections, both PIL and PP receive multimodal information from auditory (inferior colliculus, superior olivary nucleus, nucleus of lateral lemniscus, and association auditory cortex), visual (superior colliculus and ectorhinal cortex), somatosensory (gracile and cuneate nuclei), motor (external globus pallidus), and limbic (central amygdaloid nucleus, hypothalamus, and insular cortex) structures. However, the PP rather than PIL receives strong projections from the visual related structures parabigeminal nucleus and ventral lateral geniculate nucleus. Additional results from Cre-dependent viral tracing in mice have also confirmed the main results in rats. Together, the findings in this study would provide new insights into the neural circuits and functional correlation of the PIL and PP.