bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASCA-related antibodies in the blood sera of healthy donors and patients with colorectal cancer: characterization with oligosaccharides related to Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannan
Authors: Krylov Vadim B. , Kuznetsov Anton N. , Polyanskaya Alina V. , Tsarapaev Pavel V. , Yashunsky Dmitry V. , Kushlinskii Nikolay E. , Nifantiev Nikolay E.
Published: December 2023

Mannans are polysaccharide antigens expressed on the cell wall of different fungal species including Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida spp. These fungi are components of the normal intestinal microflora, and the presence of antibodies to fungal antigens is known to reflect the features of the patient’s immune system. Thus, titers of IgG and IgA antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannan (ASCA) are markers for clinical diagnostics of inflammatory bowel diseases. The complex organization and heterogeneity of cell-wall mannans may reduce the quality and reproducibility of ELISA results due to interference by different antigenic epitopes. In this research, we analyzed the levels of IgG antibodies in the sera of healthy donors and patients with colorectal cancer using an array of synthetic oligosaccharides related to distinct fragments of fungal mannan. This study aimed to establish the influence of oligosaccharide structure on their antigenicity. Variations in the structure of the previously established ASCA epitope (changing type of linkage, chain length, and the presence of branches) significantly modified the ability of ligands to bind to circulating antibodies in blood sera. The study showed that surface presentation density of the ligand critically affects the results of enzyme immunoassay. The transition from natural coating antigens to their corresponding synthetic mimetics with a defined structure opens new opportunities for improving existing ELISA test systems, as well as developing diagnostic kits with new properties.
Predicting 90-day prognosis for patients with stroke: a machine learning approach
Authors: Abujaber Ahmad A. , Alkhawaldeh Ibraheem M. , Imam Yahia , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Akhtar Naveed , Own Ahmed , Tarawneh Ahmad S. , Hassanat Ahmad B.
Published: December 2023

Background

Stroke is a significant global health burden and ranks as the second leading cause of death worldwide.

Objective

This study aims to develop and evaluate a machine learning-based predictive tool for forecasting the 90-day prognosis of stroke patients after discharge as measured by the modified Rankin Score.

Methods

The study utilized data from a large national multiethnic stroke registry comprising 15,859 adult patients diagnosed with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Of these, 7,452 patients satisfied the study’s inclusion criteria. Feature selection was performed using the correlation and permutation importance methods. Six classifiers, including Random Forest (RF), Classification and Regression Tree, Linear Discriminant Analysis, Support Vector Machine, and k-Nearest Neighbors, were employed for prediction.

Results

The RF model demonstrated superior performance, achieving the highest accuracy (0.823) and excellent discrimination power (AUC 0.893). Notably, stroke type, hospital acquired infections, admission location, and hospital length of stay emerged as the top-ranked predictors.

Conclusion

The RF model shows promise in predicting stroke prognosis, enabling personalized care plans and enhanced preventive measures for stroke patients. Prospective validation is essential to assess its real-world clinical performance and ensure successful implementation across diverse healthcare settings.
Giant-cell arteritis related strokes: scoping review of mechanisms and rethinking treatment strategy?
Authors: Bonnan Mickael , Debeugny Stephane
Published: December 2023

Stroke is a rare and severe complication of giant cell arteritis (GCA). Although early diagnosis and treatment initiation are essential, the mechanism of stroke is often related to vasculitis complicated by arterial stenosis and occlusion. Its recurrence is often attributed to early steroid resistance or late GCA relapse, so immunosuppressive treatment is often reinforced. However, many questions concerning the mechanisms of stroke remain elusive, and no review to date has examined the whole data set concerning GCA-related stroke. We therefore undertook this scoping review. GCA-related stroke does not necessarily display general signs and inflammatory parameters are sometimes normal, so clinicians should observe caution. Ischemic lesions often show patterns predating watershed areas and are associated with stenosis or thrombosis of the respective arteries, which are often bilateral. Lesions predominate in the siphon in the internal carotid arteries, whereas all the vertebral arteries may be involved with a predominance in the V3-V4 segments. Ultrasonography of the cervical arteries may reveal edema of the intima (halo sign), which is highly sensitive and specific of GCA, and precedes stenosis. The brain arteries are spared although very proximal arteritis may rarely occur, if the patient has microstructural anatomical variants. Temporal artery biopsy reveals the combination of mechanisms leading to slit-like stenosis, which involves granulomatous inflammation and intimal hyperplasia. The lumen is sometimes occluded by thrombi (<15%), suggesting that embolic lesions may also occur, although imaging studies have not provided strong evidence for this. Moreover, persistence of intimal hyperplasia might explain persisting arterial stenosis, which may account for delayed stroke occurring in watershed areas. Other possible mechanisms of stroke are also discussed. Overall, GCA-related stroke mainly involves hemodynamic mechanisms. Besides early diagnosis and treatment initiation, future studies could seek to establish specific preventive or curative treatments using angioplasty or targeting intimal proliferation.
Digital gait markers to potentially distinguish fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, and essential tremor
Authors: Robertson-Dick Erin E. , Timm Emily C. , Pal Gian , Ouyang Bichun , Liu Yuanqing , Berry-Kravis Elizabeth , Hall Deborah A. , O’Keefe Joan A.
Published: December 2023

Background

Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), a neurodegenerative disease that affects carriers of a 55-200 CGG repeat expansion in the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene, may be given an incorrect initial diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) or essential tremor (ET) due to overlapping motor symptoms. It is critical to characterize distinct phenotypes in FXTAS compared to PD and ET to improve diagnostic accuracy. Fast as possible (FP) speed and dual-task (DT) paradigms have the potential to distinguish differences in gait performance between the three movement disorders. Therefore, we sought to compare FXTAS, PD, and ET patients using quantitative measures of functional mobility and gait under self-selected (SS) speed, FP, and DT conditions.

Methods

Participants with FXTAS (n = 22), PD (n = 23), ET (n = 20), and controls (n = 20) underwent gait testing with an inertial sensor system (APDM™). An instrumented Timed Up and Go test (i-TUG) was used to measure movement transitions, and a 2-min walk test (2MWT) was used to measure gait and turn variables under SS, FP, and DT conditions, and dual-task costs (DTC) were calculated. ANOVA and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

PD participants had reduced stride lengths compared to FXTAS and ET participants under SS and DT conditions, longer turn duration than ET participants during the FP task, and less arm symmetry than ET participants in SS gait. They also had greater DTC for stride length and velocity compared to FXTAS participants. On the i-TUG, PD participants had reduced sit-to-stand peak velocity compared to FXTAS and ET participants. Stride length and arm symmetry index during the DT 2MWT was able to distinguish FXTAS and ET from PD, such that participants with shorter stride lengths were more likely to have a diagnosis of PD and those with greater arm asymmetry were more likely to be diagnosed with PD. No gait or i-TUG parameters distinguished FXTAS from ET participants in the regression model.

Conclusion

This is the first quantitative study demonstrating distinct gait and functional mobility profiles in FXTAS, PD, and ET which may assist in more accurate and timely diagnosis.
Evaluating different models of maternal stress on stress-responsive systems in prepubertal mice
Authors: Sheng Julietta A. , Handa Robert J. , Tobet Stuart A.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Maternal adversity during pregnancy influences neurodevelopment in human and model animal offspring. Adversity can result from stressors coming from many different directions ranging from environmental to nutritional and physiological to immune (e.g., infection). Most stressors result in fetal overexposure to glucocorticoids that have been directly linked to long- and short-term negative impacts on neurological health of offspring. Neuropsychiatric diseases postulated to have fetal origins are diverse and include such things cardiovascular disease, obesity, affective disorders, and metabolic and immune disorders.

Methods

The experiments in the current study compare 3 stressors: prenatal exposure to dexamethasone (DEX), maternal high fat diet (HFD), and maternal caloric restriction (CR). Offspring of mothers with these treatments were examined prepubertally to evaluate stress responsiveness and stress-related behaviors in in male and female mice.

Results

Prenatal exposure to synthetic glucocorticoid, DEX, resulted in decreased neonatal body weights, reduced social interaction behavior, and hypoactive stress response offspring exposed to maternal DEX. Maternal CR resulted in decreased body weights and social interaction behavior in males and females and increased anxiety-like behavior and acute stress response only in males. HFD resulted in altered body weight gain in both sex offspring with decreased anxiety-like behavior in a female-biased manner.

Discussion

The idea that glucocorticoid responses to different stressors might serve as a common stimulus across stress paradigms is insufficient, given that different modes of prenatal stress produced differential effects. Opposite nutritional stressors produced similar outcomes for anxiety-like behavior in both sexes, social-like behavior in females, and a hyperactive adrenal stress response in males. One common theme among the three models of maternal stress (DEX, CR, and HFD) was consistent data showing their role in activating the maternal and fetal immune response. By tuning in on the more immediate immunological aspect on the developing fetus (e.g., hormones, cytokines), additional studies may tease out more direct outcomes of maternal stress in rodents and increase their translational value to human studies.
Determinants of cancer incidence and mortality among people with vitamin D deficiency: an epidemiology study using a real-world population database
Authors: Lai Yi-Chen , Chen Yu-Han , Liang Fu-Wen , Wu Yu-Cih , Wang Jhi-Joung , Lim Sher-Wei , Ho Chung-Han
Published: December 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the determinants of cancer incidence and mortality in patients with vitamin D deficiency using a real-world population database.

Methods

We utilized the International Diagnostic Classification Code (ICD9:268 / ICD10: E55) to define patients with vitamin D deficiency. Additionally, the Cox regression model was used to estimate overall mortality and identify potential factors contributing to mortality in cancer patients.

Results

In 5242 patients with vitamin D deficiency, the development of new-onset cancer was 229 (4.37%) patients. Colon cancer was the most prevalent cancer type. After considering confounding factors, patients aged 50–65 and more than 65 indicated a 3.10-fold (95% C.I.: 2.12–4.51) and 4.55-fold (95% C.I.: 3.03–6.82) cancer incidence, respectively compared with those aged <50. Moreover, patients with comorbidities of diabetes mellitus (DM) (HR: 1.56; 95% C.I.: 1.01–2.41) and liver disease (HR: 1.62; 95% C.I.: 1.03–2.54) presented a higher cancer incidence rate than those without DM/ liver disease. In addition, vitamin D deficiency patients with cancer and dementia histories indicated a significantly higher mortality risk (HR: 4.04; 95% C.I.: 1.05– 15.56) than those without dementia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study revealed that vitamin D deficiency patients with liver disease had an increased incidence of cancer, while those with dementia had an increased mortality rate among cancer patients.
Anlotinib combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy for recurrent pelvic osteosarcoma treatment: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Qian , Zheng Kai , Xu Ming , Yan Ning , Hai Gong , Yu Xiuchun
Published: December 2023

At present, the treatment of recurrent pelvic osteosarcoma is too simple, and most of the patients are treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or combined surgery. Here, we report a 29-year-old man diagnosed with local recurrent pelvic osteosarcoma. Imaging showed that the tumor had obvious enhancement and abundant blood vessels. There was no indication of surgery. After the patient’s consent was obtained, we used anlotinib as a sequential treatment to chemotherapy. During the first course of adjuvant chemotherapy, we treated the patient with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with a total dose of 60 Gy equivalents. No disease recurrence was reported at 25 months after multimodal combination therapy.
Efficacy and safety of iguratimod in the treatment of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases: a meta-analysis and systematic review of 84 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zeng Liuting , He Qi , Deng Ying , Li Yuwei , Chen Junpeng , Yang Kailin , Luo Yanfang , Ge Anqi , Zhu Xiaofei , Long Zhiyong , Sun Lingyun
Published: December 2023

Objective: To evaluate efficacy and safety of iguratimod (IGU) in the treatment of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases.

Methods: Databases such as Pubmed, Embase, Sinomed were searched (as of July 2022) to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of IGU in the treatment of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, assessed the risk of bias of the included literature, and performed meta-analysis using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results: A total of 84 RCTs and 4 types of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases [rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), primary Sjögren’s syndrome (PSS) and Autoimmune disease with interstitial pneumonia]. Forty-three RCTs reported RA and showed that IGU + MTX therapy can improve ACR20 (RR 1.45 [1.14, 1.84], p = 0.003), ACR50 (RR 1.80 [1.43, 2.26], p < 0.0000), ACR70 (RR 1.84 [1.27, 2.67], p = 0.001), DAS28 (WMD −1.11 [−1.69, −0.52], p = 0.0002), reduce ESR (WMD −11.05 [−14.58, −7.51], p < 0.00001), CRP (SMD −1.52 [−2.02, −1.02], p < 0.00001), RF (SMD −1.65 [−2.48, −0.82], p < 0.0001), and have a lower incidence of adverse events (RR 0.84 [0.78, 0.91], p < 0.00001) than the control group. Nine RCTs reported AS and showed that IGU can decrease the BASDAI score (SMD −1.62 [−2.20, −1.05], p < 0.00001), BASFI score (WMD −1.07 [−1.39, −0.75], p < 0.00001), VAS (WMD −2.01 [−2.83, −1.19], p < 0.00001), inflammation levels (decreasing ESR, CRP and TNF-α). Thirty-two RCTs reported PSS and showed that IGU can reduce the ESSPRI score (IGU + other therapy group: WMD −1.71 [−2.44, −0.98], p < 0.00001; IGU only group: WMD −2.10 [−2.40, −1.81], p < 0.00001) and ESSDAI score (IGU + other therapy group: WMD −1.62 [−2.30, −0.94], p < 0.00001; IGU only group: WMD −1.51 [−1.65, −1.37], p < 0.00001), inhibit the inflammation factors (reduce ESR, CRP and RF) and increase Schirmer’s test score (IGU + other therapy group: WMD 2.18 [1.76, 2.59], p < 0.00001; IGU only group: WMD 1.55 [0.35, 2.75], p = 0.01); The incidence of adverse events in IGU group was also lower than that in control group (IGU only group: RR 0.66 [0.48, 0.98], p = 0.01). Three RCTs reported Autoimmune disease with interstitial pneumonia and showed that IGU may improve lung function.

Conclusion: Based on current evidence, IGU may be a safe and effective therapy for RA, AS, PSS and autoimmune diseases with interstitial pneumonia.

Systematic Review Registration: (CRD42021289489).
Discovery of potential WEE1 inhibitors via hybrid virtual screening
Authors: Jin Tingting , Xu Wei , Chen Roufen , Shen Liteng , Gao Jian , Xu Lei , Chi Xinglong , Lin Nengming , Zhou Lixin , Shen Zheyuan , Zhang Bo
Published: December 2023

G2/M cell cycle checkpoint protein WEE1 kinase is a promising target for inhibiting tumor growth. Although various WEE1 inhibitors have entered clinical investigations, their therapeutic efficacy and safety profile remain unsatisfactory. In this study, we employed a comprehensive virtual screening workflow, which included Schrödinger-Glide molecular docking at different precision levels, as well as the utilization of tools such as MM/GBSA and Deepdock to predict the binding affinity between targets and ligands, in order to identify potential WEE1 inhibitors. Out of ten molecules screened, 50% of these molecules exhibited strong inhibitory activity against WEE1. Among them, compounds 4 and 5 showed excellent inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 1.069 and 3.77 nM respectively, which was comparable to AZD1775. Further investigations revealed that compound 4 displayed significant anti-proliferative effects in A549, PC9, and HuH-7 cells and could also induce apoptosis and G1 phase arrest in PC9 cells. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulations unveiled the binding details of compound 4 with WEE1, notably the crucial hydrogen bond interactions formed with Cys379. In summary, this comprehensive virtual screening workflow, combined with in vitro testing and computational modeling, holds significant importance in the development of promising WEE1 inhibitors.
Metabolic adaptation of the clam Ruditapes philippinarum during air exposure and the positive effects of sodium nitroprusside pretreatment
Authors: Zheng Zhilong , Huo Zhongming , Huang Kaiyue , Jiang Min , Yan Xiwu , Liu Yang , Qin Yanjie
Published: December 2023

The Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum), as one of the shellfish living in the intertidal zone, is known for its strong ability to withstand air exposure. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a donor of nitric oxide (NO), has been shown to be useful for antioxidant and immune regulation in aquatic animals. In this study, an untargeted metabolomics (LC–MS/MS) technique was employed for the first time in Manila clam to analyze the metabolic and histological impacts after air exposure and the positive effects of SNP pretreatment. During air exposure, a significant increase in taurine, L-glutamate, and several polyunsaturated fatty acids in clams was detected, which indicates that clams may experience inflammatory reactions, oxidative stress, and an increase in blood ammonia content. When clams were exposed to SNP for 6 h, arginine, spermine, L-glutamic acid, and glutathione content were all upregulated, indicating that the SNP exposure induced NO production and improved antioxidant capacity in clams. When the clams were exposed to air after SNP pretreatment, there were no significant differences in the levels of taurine, L-glutamate, or aliphatic acids between the experimental and control groups. Gill tissue was more severely damaged in clams directly exposed to air than in those that experienced air exposure after SNP pretreatment, especially in clams exposed to air for a long time (72 h). Both metabolomics and tissue section structure indicated that SNP pretreatment decreased the stress responses caused by air exposure in R. philippinarum. These findings provided fresh insights and a theoretical foundation for understanding the tolerance to air exposure and physiological functions of SNP (or NO) in R. philippinarum.
The impact of heat stress in plant reproduction
Authors: Resentini Francesca , Orozco-Arroyo Gregorio , Cucinotta Mara , Mendes Marta A.
Published: December 2023

The increment in global temperature reduces crop productivity, which in turn threatens food security. Currently, most of our food supply is produced by plants and the human population is estimated to reach 9 billion by 2050. Gaining insights into how plants navigate heat stress in their reproductive phase is essential for effectively overseeing the future of agricultural productivity. The reproductive success of numerous plant species can be jeopardized by just one exceptionally hot day. While the effects of heat stress on seedlings germination and root development have been extensively investigated, studies on reproduction are limited. The intricate processes of gamete development and fertilization unfold within a brief timeframe, largely concealed within the flower. Nonetheless, heat stress is known to have important effects on reproduction. Considering that heat stress typically affects both male and female reproductive structures concurrently, it remains crucial to identify cultivars with thermotolerance. In such cultivars, ovules and pollen can successfully undergo development despite the challenges posed by heat stress, enabling the completion of the fertilization process and resulting in a robust seed yield. Hereby, we review the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying plant resistance to abiotic heat stress, focusing on the reproductive process in the model systems of Arabidopsis and Oryza sativa.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of WRKY gene family members in red clover (Trifolium pratense L.)
Authors: Yuan Guoxin , Zhang Nijing , Zou Yiming , Hao Yaqi , Pan Jiahao , Liu Yongzhao , Zhang Weiguo , Li Beibei
Published: December 2023

Trifolium pratense is an important legume forage grass and a key component of sustainable livestock development. Serving as an essential component, the WRKY gene family, a crucial group of regulatory transcription factors in plants, holds significant importance in their response to abiotic stresses. However, there has been no systematic analysis conducted on the WRKY gene family in Trifolium pratense. This study conducted a comprehensive genomic characterization of the WRKY gene family in Trifolium pratense, utilizing the latest genomic data, resulting in the identification of 59 TpWRKY genes. Based on their structural features, phylogenetic characteristics, and conserved motif composition, the WRKY proteins were classified into three groups, with group II further subdivided into five subgroups (II-a, II-b, II-c, II-d, and II-e). The majority of the TpWRKYs in a group share a similar structure and motif composition. Intra-group syntenic analysis revealed eight pairs of duplicate segments. The expression patterns of 59 TpWRKY genes in roots, stems, leaves, and flowers were examined by analyzing RNA-seq data. The expression of 12 TpWRKY genes under drought, low-temperature (4°C), methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and abscisic acid (ABA) stresses was analyzed by RT-qPCR. The findings indicated that TpWRKY46 was highly induced by drought stress, and TpWRKY26 and TpWRKY41 were significantly induced by low temperature stress. In addition, TpWRKY29 and TpWRKY36 were greatly induced by MeJA stress treatment, and TpWRKY17 was significantly upregulated by ABA stress treatment. In this research, we identified and comprehensively analyzed the structural features of the WRKY gene family in T.pratense, along with determined the possible roles of WRKY candidate genes in abiotic stress. These discoveries deepen our understandings of how WRKY transcription factors contribute to species evolution and functional divergence, laying a solid molecular foundation for future exploration and study of stress resistance mechanisms in T.pratense.
Virtual reality-assisted assessment of paranoid ideation in forensic psychiatric inpatients: A mixed-methods pilot study
Authors: Hedström Richard , Wallinius Märta , Sygel Kristina , Geraets Chris N. W.
Published: December 2023

Background

Reliable and valid assessment of paranoia is important in forensic psychiatry for providing adequate care. VR technology may add to current assessment procedures, as it enables observation within realistic (social) situations resembling the complexity of everyday life. VR constitutes a promising tool within forensics, due to the restricted nature of forensic psychiatric hospitals and ethical challenges arising from observing potentially dangerous behaviors in real life.

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of VR assessment for paranoid ideation in forensic psychiatric inpatients qualitatively by assessing the experiences of patients and a clinician, and to explore how the VR measures relate to established clinical measures.

Methods

One clinician (experienced psychiatrist) and 10 forensic psychiatric inpatients with a history or suspicion of paranoid ideation were included. Patients participated in two immersive VR scenarios (bus and supermarket) during which paranoia was assessed by the clinician. Qualitative interviews were performed with patients and the clinician performing the assessment to investigate experiences and feasibility. Further, measures of paranoia, social anxiety, and positive symptoms were obtained.

Results

Nine out of 10 participants with varying levels of paranoid ideation completed the assessment. Manifest inductive content analyses of the interviews revealed general experiences, advantages such as enabling observing participants from a different perspective, and challenges of the VR assessment, such as a lack of objectivity and the laboriousness of the assessment for the clinician. Although more paranoia was experienced during the supermarket scenario, correlates with classical measures were only significant for the bus scenario.

Discussion

The VR assessment was appreciated by most patients and the clinician. Based on our results short, standardized VR assessment scenarios are feasible, however, they do not appear reliable or objective for assessing paranoia. The clinical usefulness is most likely as a collaborative tool and add-on measure to existing methods.
The relationship between music training and cognitive flexibility: an ERP study
Authors: Hao Jiayi , Zhong Yuhuan , Pang Yazhi , Jing Yuanluo , Liu Yong , Li Hong , Li Jianbo , Zheng Maoping
Published: December 2023

Background

Music training involves several cognitive functions in the brain, particularly executive function. Numerous studies have proven a link between the two. Cognitive flexibility is an important component of executive function, however, there has been little study investigating the association between music training and cognitive flexibility.

Method

Music training (N = 22) and the control groups (N = 26) were included in the present study. A tone-related oddball task was used to investigate the tone-related inhibition and the switch task was to investigate cognitive flexibility. During the switch task, EEG data were collected.

Results

The behavioral results of the oddball task showed that the individuals in the music training group had a shorter reaction time and higher accuracy in both the between-tone and within-tone categories compared to the controls. The behavioral results of the switch task showed similar results, with the music training group exhibiting better reaction time and accuracy performance than the controls. ERP results showed that the music training group had smaller P3 amplitudes and greater N2 and N450 amplitudes than the control group.

Discussion

The findings further supported the link between music training and enhanced cognitive function.
Social media consumption and depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 lockdown: the mediating effect of physical activity
Authors: Kim Amy Chan Hyung , Du James , Andrew Damon P. S.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Social media platforms played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to explore: (1) the changes in social media consumption patterns, physical activity levels/sedentary behavior, and depressive symptoms, and (2) how the changes in social media consumption patterns predict the changes in depressive symptoms while investigating the mediating role of changes in physical activity levels/sedentary behavior between before, and after the COVID-19 lockdown among U.S. adults with different age clusters.

Methods

A total of 695 U.S. participants completed an online questionnaire via MTurk, and participants were asked to recall their social media consumption patterns, physical activity/sedentary behavior, depressive symptoms in January and May of 2020 while covariates included non-physical activity health behavior including diet quality, alcohol consumption, smoking, and sleep quality.

Results

The results of Bayesian significance testing of changes showed that the older participants tended to spend more time with content-focused social media platforms during the lockdown. While significantly increased sitting time was reported by all age clusters, no significant changes were found in activity levels. Additionally, the middle-aged and older participants reported significantly higher depressive symptoms. The findings of a multigroup structural analysis showed the significant mediating effect of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity on the relationship between changes in social media consumption and depressive symptoms.

Discussion

This study highlights the need for targeting specific social media platforms for older adults and the importance of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity to alleviate the mental health issues resulting from social media consumption. The result of this study also highlights the need for sport-based intervention programs in the future and the need for more social media campaigns at the institution/organization levels established by public health stakeholders and policy makers to promote physical activity and maximize population perception and reach during the pandemic.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate for treating hyperkalemia among Chinese patients
Authors: Tian Lei , Fu Shihui , Li Mengyuan , Zhao Xinrui , Li Hongchao
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Hyperkalemia most commonly develops in chronic kidney disease (CKD) or heart failure (HF) patients. Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) is a new selective potassium (K+) binder for treating hyperkalemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of SZC vs. usual care for the treatment of hyperkalemia among CKD patients or HF patients in China.

Methods

Individual patient microsimulation models were constructed to simulate a CKD cohort until the initiation of renal replacement therapy (RRT) and a HF cohort across the lifetime horizon. K+ levels were based on two phase 3 clinical trials. Health state utility and event incidence rates were retrieved from literature. Drug costs and healthcare utilization costs were obtained from negotiated price, literature, and expert interviews. Costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were both discounted at 5%. The main outcomes were overall costs, QALYs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). The willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold in China is CNY 80,976-242,928/QALY, which is one to three times the gross domestic product per capita. Sensitivity analyses were performed to characterize the models’ uncertainty.

Results

In the HF cohort, the base case results revealed that SZC was associated with 2.86 QALYs and the total cost was CNY 92671.58; usual care was associated with 1.81 QALYs and CNY 54101.26. In the CKD cohort, SZC was associated with 3.23 QALYs and CNY 121416.82 total cost; usual care was associated with 2.91 QALYs and CNY 111464.57. SZC resulted in an ICER of CNY 36735.87/QALY for the HF cohort and CNY 31181.55/QALY for the CKD cohort, respectively. The one-way and probability sensitivity analyses found that the results were robust.

Conclusion

SZC is a cost-effective treatment compared to usual care in HF and CKD patients. SZC is an important novel treatment option for managing patients with hyperkalemia in China.
Residential greenness for mitigating impacts of extreme heat events on depression and supporting mental health
Authors: Yang Ying , Zhang Yixin , Sheng Shaojie
Published: December 2023

Background

Residential green spaces (RGS) are a crucial aspect of urban life, which provide residents with a positive living environment both for mental and physical well-being. However, extreme heat events caused by global warming and local urban heat island effects are threatening the public health of rapidly growing populations. This is especially true for mental health. Depression is a mental illness that can be impacted by extreme heat events, i.e., heatwaves.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the potential for residential green spaces (RGS) to alleviate depression by reducing heat stress sensitivity during extreme heat events.

Methods

We conducted a literature review using scientometric analysis with CiteSpace to summarize existing research on the relationships between RGS, depression, and heatwaves. We proposed a conceptual framework for the relationship between RGS and depression, and that extreme heat events may be an important contributor to depression.

Results

Our review found that RGS can provide ecosystem services that lower ambient temperatures through evaporative cooling, radiation reflection, humidity regulation, and shading. Different types of RGS, i.e., small green spaces, green roofs, green walls, and street trees, have varying cooling capacities. The mechanisms by which RGS alleviate depression during heatwaves involve green space composition, exposure, physical activity, social contacts, and cohesion. And we proposed a conceptual framework for the relationship between RGS and depression, and that extreme heat events may be an important contributor to depression.

Conclusion

We present a multidimensional RGS evaluation roadmap to inform green space design for reducing depression during heatwaves. Establishing RGS multidimensional evaluation can guide future research on leveraging RGS to build resilience against extreme heat and improve public mental health.
Functional recovery of a 41-year-old quadriplegic spinal cord injury patient following multiple intravenous infusions of autologous adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells: a case report
Authors: Vij Ridhima , Kim Hosu , Park Hyeonggeun , Cheng Thanh , Lotfi Djamchid , Chang Donna
Published: December 2023

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating disease with clinical manifestations ranging from incomplete neurological deficits affecting sensory and motor functions to complete paralysis. Recent advancements in stem cell research have elucidated the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the treatment of patients with SCI. Here, we present a case of a 41-year-old quadriplegic male individual who experienced a traumatic C-5 incomplete SCI, after slipping off a boat in Florida Keys on August 4, 2017. He was diagnosed with C5–C6 Grade 2 anterolisthesis with flexion teardrop fracture of the anterior C6 with jumped facet on the right and perched facet on the left at C5–C6 with spinal canal stenosis. On September 12, 2019, an Individual Expanded Access Protocol was approved for administration of multiple infusions of autologous, adipose-derived MSCs (adMSCs) for the treatment of this quadriplegic incomplete C5-6 SCI patient. Thirty-four (34) recurrent infusions each with 200 million cells were administered, over a period of ∼2.5 years, which resulted in significant improvements in his quality-of-life as demonstrated by substantial improvements in SCIM-III (Spinal Cord Independence Measure III) scores. Additionally, electromyography/nerve conduction velocity (EMG/NCV) studies showed improvements in the patient's motor and sensory function. No safety concerns were presented, and no serious adverse events were reported during the entire course of treatment. Multiple intravenous infusions of autologous HB-adMSCs for treatment of SCI demonstrated significant enhancements in the patient's neurological function with improved quality-of-life. Further research is needed to evaluate the results of this study.
Who needs the social model of disability?
Authors: Adam Sofia , Koutsoklenis Athanasios
Published: December 2023

Over the past two decades, there has been a growing shift away from the Social Model of Disability (SMD) in both theory and practice. This article aims to substantiate the relevance of SMD by addressing the main arguments against it and by identifying why and for whom it is still relevant. In the introductory section, we focus on the recent production of multiple disability models in order to contextualize their emergence and elucidate the reasons behind their proliferation. In the main section of the article, we critically engage with three lines of criticism against SMD in order to explain why it remains relevant and for whom. Our main point is that, in the context of the neoliberal capitalist era, the SMD is indispensable for all disabled persons who have been denied their dignity, both in material and cultural terms.
A Bimodal Hydrostatic Actuator for Robotic Legs with Compliant Fast Motion and High Lifting Force
Authors: Lecavalier Alex , Denis Jeff , Plante Jean-Sébastien , Girard Alexandre
Published: December 2023

Robotic legs, such as for lower-limb exoskeletons and prostheses, have bimodal operation: (1) within a task, like for walking (high speed and low force for the swing phase and low speed and higher force when the leg bears the weight of the system); (2) between tasks, like between walking and sit–stand motions. Sizing a traditional single-ratio actuation system for such extremum operations leads to oversized heavy electric motor and poor energy efficiency at low speeds. This paper explores a bimodal actuation concept where a hydrostatic transmission is dynamically reconfigured using custom motorized ball valves to suit the requirements of a robotic leg with a smaller and more efficient actuation system. First, this paper presents an analysis of the mass and efficiency advantages of the bimodal solution over a baseline solution, for three operating points: high-speed, high-force, and braking modes. Second, an experimental demonstration with a custom-built actuation system and a robotic leg test bench is presented. Control challenges regarding dynamic transition between modes are discussed and a control scheme solution is proposed and tested. The results show the following findings: (1) The actuator prototype can meet the requirements of a leg bimodal operation in terms of force, speed, and compliance while using smaller motors than a baseline solution. (2) The proposed operating principle and control schemes allow for smooth and fast mode transitions. (3) Motorized ball valves exhibit a good trade-off between size, speed, and flow restriction. (4) Motorized ball valves are a promising way to dynamically reconfigure a hydrostatic transmission while allowing energy to be dissipated.
Participatory On-Farm Evaluation of Improved Groundnut Genotypes in the Guinea Savannah Agro-Ecological Zone of Ghana
Authors: Amoako Ophelia Asirifi , Oteng-Frimpong Richard , Yirzagla Julius , Kassim Yussif Baba , Tengey Theophilus Kwabla , Adogoba Desmond Sunday , Mingle Mercy , Alhassan Ramatu , Ibrahim Abdul Aleem
Published: December 2023

The on-farm mother–baby trial experimental approach was employed to evaluate the performance of elite groundnut genotypes on farmers’ fields in the Guinea savannah agroecology of Ghana in the 2020 and 2021 cropping seasons. Analysis of the data from the mother trial revealed significant (p < 0.05) genotypic differences for the traits measured over the two years. The genotype ICGV-IS 13842 reached physiological maturity in 88 days and was identified as the genotype with the shortest maturity period. However, in terms of pod yield and its associated components, genotype ICGV-IS 13864 emerged as the best from the mother trial. During farmer evaluation of the materials, genotype ICGV-IS 13979 was selected as the most preferred in addition to genotypes ICGV-IS 13864 and ICGV-IS 131090. The genotypes ICGV-IS 13864 and ICGV-IS 131090 were observed to combine both high pod yield and high haulm yield. These two traits were identified as very important by the farmers who participated in the study as the haulms serve as fodder for their animals and fetch additional household income when sold with the pods harvested. The preference for genotype ICGV-IS 13842, an early maturing genotype, can be seen as an indication of farmers responding to the changing growing season due to erratic rainfall. However, if genotypes ICGV-IS 13864 and ICGV-IS 131090 are combined with some water management practices in the future, they could potentially withstand the changing growing season. Economic analysis showed that the improved genotypes had a greater net return on investment and higher cost–benefit ratio ranging from 2.74 to 4.84 across both years.
Genome-Wide Association Analysis-Based Mining of Quality Genes Related to Linoleic and Linolenic Acids in Soybean
Authors: Wang Jiabao , Liu Lu , Zhang Qi , Sun Tingting , Wang Piwu
Published: December 2023

Soybean fat contains five principal fatty acids, and its fatty acid composition and nutritional value depend on the type of soybean oil, storage duration, and conditions. Among the fat contents, polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic acid and linolenic acid, play an essential role in maintaining human life activities; thus, increasing the proportions of the linoleic acid and linolenic acid contents can help improve the nutritional value of soybean oil. Our laboratory completed SLAF-seq whole genome sequencing of the natural population (292 soybean varieties) in the previous growth period. In this study, genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) was performed based on the natural population genotypic data and three-year phenotypic data of soybean linoleic acid and linolenic acid contents, and a significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) locus (Gm13_10009679) associated with soybean oleic acid content was repeatedly detected over a span of 3 years using the GLM model and MLM model. Additionally, another significant SNP locus (Gm19_41366844) correlated with soybean linolenic acid was identified through the same models. Genes within the 100 Kb interval upstream and downstream of the SNP loci were scanned and analyzed for their functional annotation and enrichment, and one gene related to soybean linoleic acid synthesis (Glyma.13G035600) and one gene related to linolenic acid synthesis (Glyma.19G147400) were screened. The expressions of the candidate genes were verified using qRT-PCR, and based on the verification results, it was hypothesized that Glyma.13G035600 and Glyma.19G147400 positively regulate linoleic acid and linolenic acid synthesis and accumulation, respectively. The above study lays the foundation for further validating gene functions, and analyzing the regulatory mechanisms of linoleic acid and linolenic acid synthesis and accumulation in soybean.
Analyzing Single and Combined Cultures of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria Isolates from Afghanistan as a Potential Biofertilizer for Rice Growth and Development
Authors: Habibi Safiullah , Yokoyama Tadashi , Haidari Mohammad Daud , Torii Akihiro , Yasuda Michiko , Ohkama-Ohtsu Naoko
Published: December 2023

Developing multi-functional, environmentally friendly biofertilizers can help reduce chemical fertilizer usage. This study examined single and combined application effects of four plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) strains: AF124 (Rhizobium daejeonense), AF74 (Enterobacter cloacae), AF96 (Pseudomonas putida), and AF42 (Enterobacter cloacae), isolated from alkaline salt-stressed soils from Afghanistan. Physiological features such as nitrogen (N2) fixation, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), organic acid production, and P and K solubilization of bacteria in single or combined cultures in vitro were examined. A single application of AF124 and AF74 showed significantly higher IAA production than the combined application of dual, triple, and quadruple PGPR treatments. Regarding acetylene reduction activity, an N2-fixation activity indicator, a single application of AF124 showed the highest value, followed by a triple application of AF124 + AF96 + AF42. The P-solubilization activity and organic acid production were lower in the single application of AF124 but higher with other strains in the combined applications, which resulted in the secretion of multiple organic acids into the medium. The highest solubilized K value was obtained from the quadruple application compared to other treatments. In the rice inoculation test, all single and combined PGPR treatments increased its growth parameters, such as root length and root and shoot dry biomass. The present results indicate that these four PGPR strains can potentially contribute to developing multi-functional bio-fertilizer formulations.
Organogenesis and Antioxidant Capacity of Streptocarpus ×hybridus In Vitro under Different LED Light Spectrum Composition
Authors: Cioć Monika , Łopusiewicz Łukasz , Pietrak Anna , Firszt Rafał , Sienkiewicz Monika
Published: December 2023

Plants, whilst also having an ornamental role, are also a source of beneficial, bioactive compounds, and in vitro cultures are helpful in finding and obtaining them. Streptocarpus ×hybridus can be a source of antioxidants. The effect of different LED light qualities on the growth, development and metabolite composition of Streptocarpus multiplied in vitro on Murashige and Skoog medium was investigated. The used spectra were: 100% blue (B), 100% red (R), red and blue in 7:3 proportion (RB), 50% RB + 50% ultra violet (RBUV), 50% RB + 50% green (RBG), 50% RB + 50% yellow (RBY), 50% RB + 50% far red (RBfR), and white (WLed). A fluorescent lamp served as the control (Fl). For the best morphological quality of multiplied plants, the use of RBY light is recommended. Fl light reduced the antioxidant properties of extracts compared to LEDs. The most recommended spectrum in this aspect is RBfR, WLed, RBG and R light. These lights (except for R) stimulated the polyphenol content. RBY and R light influenced the highest content of free amino acids and reducing sugars. Studies showed that a selected LED light spectrum can influence the production of plant biomolecules with antioxidant properties and, compared to Fl light, improves the growth and development of multiplied plants.
Explosive Detection Dogs: A Perspective from the Personality Profile, Selection, Training Methods, Employment, and Performance to Mitigate a Real Threat
Authors: de Miranda-Magalhães Antônio J. , Jantorno Gustavo M. , Pralon Adauto Z. , de Castro Márcio B. , de Melo Cristiano Barros
Published: December 2023

Terrorist organizations have compelled security authorities of every nation to make an increasingly significant commitment toward mitigating the risk of mass casualties and severe financial and property damages. As a result, various security measures have been implemented, including the use of advanced equipment and an uptick in intelligence activities. One of the most effective tools that has yielded outstanding results is the use of explosive detection dogs (EDDs). The nature of EDDs demands a high level of sensitivity given the inherent danger and severity of real threat situations that may involve the risk of explosion. Moreover, the operating procedures for EDDs are unique and distinguishable from other forms of detection. We conducted a review to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject, highlighting the EDDs’ personality profile, selection, training methods, performance, and employment, incorporating insights from diverse fields, conducting an analysis, and presenting a perspective on using EDDs to prevent explosion threats.