bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The value of radiomics-based hyperdense middle cerebral artery sign in predicting hemorrhagic transformation in acute ischemic stroke patients undergoing endovascular treatment
Authors: Gong Chundan , Liu Yun , Ma Wei , Jing Yang , Liu Li , Huang Yan , Yang Jinlin , Feng Chen , Fang Yuan , Fang Weidong
Published: December 2024

Objective

To establish and validate a model based on hyperdense middle cerebral artery sign (HMCAS) radiomics features for predicting hemorrhagic transformation (HT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) after endovascular treatment (EVT).

Methods

Patients with AIS who presented with HMCAS on non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) at admission and underwent EVT at three comprehensive hospitals between June 2020 and January 2024 were recruited for this retrospective study. A radiomics model was constructed using the HMCAS radiomics features most strongly associated with HT. In addition, clinical and radiological independent factors associated with HT were identified. Subsequently, a combined model incorporating radiomics features and independent risk factors was developed via multivariate logistic regression and presented as a nomogram. The models were evaluated via receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis.

Results

Of the 118 patients, 71 (60.17%) developed HT. The area under the curve (AUC) of the radiomics model was 0.873 (95% CI 0.797–0.935) in the training cohort and 0.851 (95%CI 0.721–0.942) in the test cohort. The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT score (ASPECTS) was the only independent predictor among 24 clinical and 4 radiological variables. The combined model further improved the predictive performance, with an AUC of 0.911 (95%CI 0.850–0.960) in the training cohort and 0.877 (95%CI 0.753–0.960) in the test cohort. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that the combined model had greater clinical utility for predicting HT.

Conclusion

HMCAS-based radiomics is expected to be a reliable tool for predicting HT risk stratification in AIS patients after EVT.
Postoperative dizziness after cochlear implant surgery: can it be caused by air?
Authors: Ketterer Manuel Christoph , Everad Friederike , Lützen Niklas , Rauch Ann-Kathrin , Aschendorff Antje , Arndt Susan , Jakob Till F.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Multiple studies have described the onset and variable incidence of postoperative acute vertigo following cochlear implant (CI) surgery. However, postoperative imaging has not yet been specifically evaluated with special focus on vertigo. The aim of this study is to assess the incidence and causes of new-onset, acute postoperative vertigo following CI surgery using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective study involving ten patients who experienced postoperative dizziness and ten matched controls without dizziness. All patients received a cochlear implant (CI) between 2020 and 2024. The matching analysis was performed based on the implant, electrode array, and access to the cochlear. We analyzed the postoperative CBCT scans for changes suspicious of air trapping, a so-called pneumolabyrinth in the vestibule using minimal Hounsfield Units (HU).

Results

We compared postoperative CBCT images for electrode array position monitoring in ten patients with vertigo versus ten patients without vertigo after CI surgery. Among the ten patients with postoperative dizziness, six showed suspicious changes in the vestibule consistent with the presence of air. These air-related changes were observed in the vestibule and, in one patient, additionally in the horizontal semicircular canal. Minimal HU were significantly different and confirmed the suspicion of intravestibular air.

Conclusion

This is the first study to describe the suspicion of intravestibular air in CI patients with postoperative vertigo. Therefore, suctioning after the fenestration of the round window membrane or the endosteum after cochleostomy, as well as actions such as bending, pressing, and nose-blowing by the patient, should be strictly avoided. Furthermore, this finding highlights the importance of carefully sealing the electrode array at the cochleostomy site with connective tissue. Risk factors for the development of a pneumolabyrinth with air in the vestibule include intralabyrinthine or intracranial pressure changes, large cochleostomies or a second cochleostomy and electrode placement in the scala tympani.
The impact of typological similarities and differences between German and Italian on the acquisition of language-specific phonetic cues in bilingual children: insights from the T-complex
Authors: Bloder Theresa , Shinohara Yasuaki , Rinker Tanja , Shafer Valerie L.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Lateral temporal neural measures (Na and T-complex Ta and Tb) of the auditory evoked potential (AEP) index auditory/speech processing and have been observed in children and adults. While Na is already present in children under 4 years of age, Ta emerges from 4 years of age, and Tb appears even later. The T-complex has been found to be sensitive to language experience in Spanish-English and Turkish-German children and adults. In particular, Ta elicited to a vowel has been found to be sensitive to language experience in bilingual preschool children. This paper examines neural responses in 4-to-6-year-old Italian-German bilingual and German monolingual children using language-specific phonetic cues for voicing.

Methods

We tested children's processing of voicing features in bilabial stop consonants in relation to (1) their language status (i.e., being monolingual vs. bilingual) as well as to (2) their relative amount of current exposure to the heritage (Italian) and the societal language (German). Italian-German bilingual and German monolingual children were hypothesized to encode the temporal properties of a set of Voice Onset Time (VOT) stimuli differently as indexed by Ta and Tb.

Results

The results revealed no main effects of language group, but interactions of group with hemisphere and stimulus. In particular, bilingual children showed less hemispheric differentiation and an attenuated (less positive) response at the right site (T8) for the 0 ms VOT stimulus during the Ta-Tb time window. Children with more German (and consequently, less Italian) input showed a more positive T8 response for the Na, Ta and Tb time intervals.

Discussion

These findings partially replicated previous studies, but also revealed that stimulus factors modulate the response. They suggest that a delay in commitment is found only in bilinguals with less input in the target language, and those who are strongly dominant in one of the two languages will resemble monolinguals in the development of T-complex responses. However, the finding of greater Na positivity for German-dominant bilinguals suggests that their specific experience also influences processing, but perhaps via a different mechanism than found for the more balanced bilinguals.
Neuroprotective role of sialic-acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin-11 in humanized transgenic mice
Authors: Abou Assale Tawfik , Afrang Negin , Wissfeld Jannis , Cuevas-Rios German , Klaus Christine , Linnartz-Gerlach Bettina , Neumann Harald
Published: December 2024

Brain aging is a chronic process linked to inflammation, microglial activation, and oxidative damage, which can ultimately lead to neuronal loss. Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin-11 (SIGLEC-11) is a human lineage-specific microglial cell surface receptor that recognizes α-2-8-linked oligo−/polysialylated glycomolecules with inhibitory effects on the microglial inflammatory pathways. Recently, the SIGLEC11 gene locus was prioritized as a top tier microglial gene with potential causality to Alzheimer’s disease, although its role in inflammation and neurodegeneration remains poorly understood. In this study, aged Siglec-11 transgenic (tg) mice, which expressed the human SIGLEC-11 receptor on microglia and tissue macrophages, were investigated. The brains of the Siglec-11 tg mice were analyzed in 6-month-old mature mice and 24-month-old aged mice using immunohistochemistry and transcriptomics. Results showed decreased density and fewer clusters of ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1)-positive microglial cells in the hippocampus and substantia nigra, as well as less lipid-laden microglia in the Siglec-11 tg in comparison to wildtype (WT) controls. Additionally, Siglec-11 tg mice exhibited less age-related neuronal loss in the substantia nigra pars compacta in comparison to WT mice. Transcriptome analysis revealed suppression of oxidative phosphorylation and inflammatory pathways in Siglec-11 tg brains at 6 months, with further suppression of complement and coagulation cascades at 24 months of age in comparison to WT mice. Gene transcript levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnf) and interleukin 1 beta (Il-1β) as well as the oxidative stress markers cytochrome b-245 alpha and beta (Cyba and Cybb) and the nitric oxide synthase 2 (Nos2), were reduced in the brains of 24-month-old Siglec-11 tg mice relative to WT controls. Brains of 24-month-old Siglec-11 tg mice also exhibited lower gene transcription of complement components 3, 4, and integrin alpha M (C3, C4, and Itgam), along with the complement C1q subcomponents a-c (C1qa, C1qb, and C1qc). In summary, aged Siglec-11 tg mice displayed reduced brain inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as protection against age-related neuronal loss in the substantia nigra.
Post-transcriptional regulation of the transcriptional apparatus in neuronal development
Authors: Nazim Mohammad
Published: December 2024

Post-transcriptional mechanisms, such as alternative splicing and polyadenylation, are recognized as critical regulatory processes that increase transcriptomic and proteomic diversity. The advent of next-generation sequencing and whole-genome analyses has revealed that numerous transcription and epigenetic regulators, including transcription factors and histone-modifying enzymes, undergo alternative splicing, most notably in the nervous system. Given the complexity of regulatory processes in the brain, it is conceivable that many of these splice variants control different aspects of neuronal development. Mutations or dysregulation of splicing and transcription regulatory proteins are frequently linked to various neurodevelopmental disorders, highlighting the importance of understanding the role of neuron-specific alternative splicing in maintaining proper transcriptional regulation in the brain. This review consolidates current insights into the role of alternative splicing in influencing transcriptional and chromatin regulatory programs in neuronal development.
Optimization of Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace fermentation process and the effects of mono- and mixed culture fermentation on its chemical composition
Authors: Yi Xinxin , Zhang Shuo , Meng Duo , Zhang Jian , Lai Chencen , Zhang Min , Sun Xiaodong , Yu Haoxiang , Wang Pengjiao , Gao Xiuli
Published: December 2024

Background

Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace (RRTP) contains valuable components like polyphenols and polysaccharides, which have high utilization value. Fermentation is an effective technique for creating beneficial nutrients that can improve the taste, appearance, and nutritional benefits of foods. Nevertheless, there is a lack of research on the alterations in chemical composition of RRTP during fermentation.

Objective and Methods

This study aimed to ferment RRTP using Bacillus subtilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae to improve its chemical composition. The optimal fermentation conditions for RRTP were determined through single-factor experiments and Box–Behnken design (BBD). Total phenols, total flavonoids, total triterpenes, ellagic acid, and vitamin C levels were higher in the fermented group with different strains and in the optimized group with mixed bacteria post-fermentation compared to the uninoculated group. Fermentation with different strains led to an increase in the ABTS radical scavenging capacity, DPPH radical scavenging capacity, and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) of RRTP.

Conclusion

The HPLC-ESI-Q-Exactive Plus Orbitrap-MS method identified 20 compounds before fermentation and 34 compounds after optimized fermentation with mixed bacteria. The levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and triterpenoids increased after the optimization with mixed bacteria. This research offers a potential approach to enhance the nutritional profile of RRTP and utilize it for the production of high-value food or feed materials.
Case report: Primary breast osteosarcoma: a case study and literature review
Authors: Wei Jingxin , Luo Xiang , Li Xueping , Li Junqiang , Liang Yanling
Published: December 2024

Primary breast osteosarcoma (PBOS) is an extremely rare and poor prognostic malignancy. Here, we presented a 44-year-old female with a primary osteosarcoma of the breast (POB). Comprehensive imaging examinations conducted on the patient can be used to expand the imaging database for cases of breast osteosarcoma.
Prognostic significance of systemic immune inflammation index in patients with urothelial carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Lei , Wang Zuoping , Li Yunxiang , Ge Si , Zeng Zhiqiang , Gan Lijian , Meng Chunyang , Li Kangsen
Published: December 2024

Objective

This review assessed the prognostic significance of the systemic immune inflammation index (SII) in patients with urothelial carcinoma.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis of the primary outcomes according to the PRISMA criteria, and assessed study quality. Seven databases were searched: Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and SinoMed, from the creation of each database until October 2024.

Results

The meta-analysis included 31 studies, including 14,437 patients with urothelial carcinoma. A low SII was significantly associated with better recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 1.37, 95%CI (1.19, 1.56), P < 0.05), cancer-specific survival (CSS) (HR = 1.87, 95%CI (1.50, 2.34), P < 0.05), and overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.42, 95%CI (1.23, 1.64), P < 0.05). In addition, subgroup analysis found that higher SII was associated with poorer prognosis regardless of treatment regimen, tumor type, or SII cutoff, and that high SII was an important prognostic biomarker in the UC population.

Conclusion

A low SII may be associated with better RFS, CSS, and OS. The SII can be used as a is a potentially noninvasive and promising prognostic indicator for urothelial carcinoma; however, further studies with appropriate designs and larger sample sizes are needed to verify these findings.
Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin, carbohydrate antigen 19-9, cancer antigen 125, and carcinoembryonic antigen as prognostic and predictive biological markers in bladder cancer
Authors: Yuk Hyeong Dong , Han Jang Hee , Jeong Seung-Hwan , Jeong Chang Wook , Kwak Cheol , Ku Ja Hyeon
Published: December 2024

Introduction

We evaluated the prognostic potential of the Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), Cancer Antigen 125 (CA125), and Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) tumor markers for bladder cancer.

Methods

We analyzed the records of 369 patients who underwent radical cystectomy for urothelial cancer (UC) between October 2012 until December 2019. Levels of CA19-9, CA125, CEA, and β-hCG before radical cystectomy were measured in all patient samples, and serum biomarker cutoff values were used as normal and elevated values.

Results and discussion

The proportion of abnormal β-hCG (P<0.001), CA19-9 (P<0.001), and CA125 (P=0.033) was significantly higher in locally advanced bladder UC than in organ-confined bladder UC. In patients with preoperative β-hCG and CA125 abnormality, there was poor prognosis of recurrence-free survival (RFS)(P=0.003, P=0.042) and overall survival (OS) (P=0.003, P=0.002). Using the Cox multivariate regression analysis, both β-hCG (HR: 3.88, 95% CI: 1.43–10.25) and CA125 (HR: 6.21, 95% CI: 1.34–32.16) were found to be significant independent factors for predicting OS and RFS. In addition, patients with a high number of increased tumor markers showed significantly worse OS ((P<0.001) and RFS (P=0.002) than patients with a low number of increased tumor markers. In conclusion, serum β-hCG and CA125 levels could potentially be used for UC prognosis in patients undergoing radical cystectomy. To assess their usefulness in evaluating long-term recurrence and survival, further treatment responses and large-scale additional studies are needed.
Understanding unit-based nurse leader experiences in a psychoeducational group program: a qualitative study
Authors: Sawyer Amanda T. , Bailey Amanda K. , Harris Stephanie L.
Published: December 2024

Background

A psychoeducational group program for nurse leaders was developed based on the four themes of resilience, insight, self-compassion, and empowerment and involves therapeutic processing with a licensed mental health professional to alleviate burnout symptoms and protect wellbeing. The program was tested in a randomized controlled trial, which included a qualitative component to examine unit-based nurse leaders' perspectives of their job role and their experiences in the psychoeducational group program.

Methods

Online semi-structured interviews with 18 unit-based nurse leaders were conducted after completion of the program. Thematic analysis using the six-step process identified by Braun and Clarke resulted in the establishment of final themes.

Results

Three primary themes emerged from the data analysis: emotional and mental wellbeing, relationships and social support, and professional experiences. There were nine sub-themes, which included temporal exploration of the themes before, during, and after the program as participants experienced transformation and growth. Findings illustrate that unit-based nurse leaders contend with many workplace stressors that impact their mental health. The psychoeducational group program enabled participants to prioritize self-care, contributed to participants feeling empowered to make positive changes in their work and home lives, and fostered a sense of connection and belonging. Participants also expressed a perceived improvement in their ability to be effective leaders.

Conclusions

These qualitative findings can help guide future implementation efforts of wellbeing programs for unit-based nurse leaders.
Acceptance and motivational effect of AI-driven feedback in the workplace: an experimental study with direct replication
Authors: Hein Ilka , Cecil Julia , Lermer Eva
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly taking over leadership tasks in companies, including the provision of feedback. However, the effect of AI-driven feedback on employees and its theoretical foundations are poorly understood. We aimed to close this research gap by comparing perceptions of AI and human feedback based on construal level theory and the feedback process model. Using these theories, our objective was also to investigate the moderating role of feedback valence and the mediating effect of social distance. A 2 × 2 between-subjects design was applied to manipulate feedback source (human vs. AI) and valence (negative vs. positive) via vignettes. In a preregistered experimental study (S1) and subsequent direct replication (S2), responses from NS1 = 263 and NS2 = 449 participants were studied who completed a German online questionnaire asking for feedback acceptance, performance motivation, social distance, acceptance of the feedback source itself, and intention to seek further feedback. Regression analyses showed that AI feedback was rated as less accurate and led to lower performance motivation, acceptance of the feedback provider, and intention to seek further feedback. These effects were mediated by perceived social distance. Moreover, for feedback acceptance and performance motivation, the differences were only found for positive but not for negative feedback in the first study. This implies that AI feedback may not inherently be perceived as more negatively than human feedback as it depends on the feedback's valence. Furthermore, the mediation effects indicate that the shown negative evaluations of the AI can be explained by higher social distance and that increased social closeness to feedback providers may improve appraisals of them and of their feedback. Theoretical contributions of the studies and implications for the use of AI for providing feedback in the workplace are discussed, emphasizing the influence of effects related to construal level theory.
Clinical characteristics and risk factors for Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children
Authors: Zhao Xueqi , Lv Jiajia , Wu Min , Wu Qun
Published: December 2024

Background

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) is one of the most common pathogens of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children. Although Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is considered a self-limiting disease, severe MPP (SMPP) occurs in some cases. This study aims to analyze clinical features of MPP and to explore predictive indicators in the early stage of M. pneumoniae infection.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled patients with MPP and non-MPP (NMPP) hospitalized to the Department of Pediatrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from 2023 to 2024. A total of 757 children with CAP were divided into MPP group and NMPP group. Patients with MPP included SMPP group and mild MPP (MMPP) group. Demographic and clinical characteristics as well as laboratory and imaging tests were deemed to be baseline data within 24 h after admission. We compared differences between MPP group and NMPP group as well as SMPP group and MMPP group. To exclude the impacts of age and gender, analysis of covariance and Logical regression was used to account for the baseline differences in the probability between MPP group and NMPP group, SMPP group and MMPP group. Logistic regression analysis was used to screen markers as potential early clinical predictors. ROC curves were applied to estimate the diagnostic and predictive value of different indicators for SMPP group.

Results

Among the 757 cases of CAP, 464 cases were MPP group and 226 cases were SMPP group. There were significant differences in hospital stay and fever duration between the MPP and NMPP groups. Compared to NMPP group, MPP group exhibited higher levels of platelet count (PLT), heparin-binding protein (HBP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), immunoglobulin G (IgG) (P < 0.05). The levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), serum ferritin (SF), prothrombin time (PT), fibrinogen (Fg), interleukin-5 (IL-5) and Gamma interferon (IFN-γ) were significantly increased in SMPP group compared to MMPP group. PT, Fg, SF, IL-5 and IFN-γ were independent risk factors for SMPP group. Significantly, IL-5 and IFN-γ served as reliable predictive indices of SMPP.

Conclusions

Notable differences were observed in both clinical characteristics and serum inflammatory markers between the MPP group and the NMPP group, as well as between the SMPP group and the MMPP group. Consequently, PT, Fg, SF, IL-5 and IFN-γ hold the potential to be employed as efficacious predictors for SMPP.
Medication non-adherence: reflecting on two decades since WHO adherence report and setting goals for the next twenty years
Authors: Kardas Przemyslaw , Bennett Bryan , Borah Bijan , Burnier Michel , Daly Christopher , Hiligsmann Mickael , Menditto Enrica , Peterson Andrew M. , Slejko Julia F. , Tóth Krisztina , Unni Elizabeth , Ágh Tamás
Published: December 2024

Background

Non-adherence to medication remains a persistent and significant challenge, with profound implications for patient outcomes and the long-term sustainability of healthcare systems. Two decades ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) dedicated its seminal report to adherence to long-term therapies, catalysing notable changes that advanced both research and practice in medication adherence. The aim of this paper was to identify the most important progress made over the last 2 decades in medication adherence management and to initiate a discussion on future objectives, suggesting priority targets for the next 20 years.

Methods

This research used the WHO adherence model as a theoretical framework, categorizing adherence factors into five dimensions: health system, therapy, condition, patient-related, and socioeconomic. Ten international experts, five from Europe and five from the United States, were assigned to these dimensions and participated in structured online discussions. Initially, based on their desk reviews, experts identified significant achievements and future targets. They then ranked these items and provided feedback through several rounds, ensuring anonymity to minimize bias, ultimately reaching a consensus. This iterative process allowed for the creation of top-ten lists of past achievements and future targets for medication adherence management over the next 20 years.

Results

Analysis of the top-ranked achievements affirms that notable progress has been made in medication adherence research and practice over the past 20 years, with increased awareness and a surge in dedicated scientific publications. Despite these advancements, non-adherence remains a prevalent issue, underscoring the need for the ongoing implementation of innovative solutions identified in this work, such as novel digital health solutions. Interdisciplinary collaboration and a holistic understanding of patient behaviours and socio-economic factors are crucial.

Conclusion

While refraining from imposing a rigid “adherence Decalogue,” we are confident that this overview of recent achievements and the curated selection of future targets may provide a useful foundation for further discussions aimed at advancing medication adherence management. Our results call for a paradigm shift, advocating the repositioning of medication adherence on national agendas and underscoring the necessity for an adherence-supportive ecosystem that extends beyond mere patient support.
Chronic nicotine exposure induces molecular and transcriptomic endophenotypes associated with mood and anxiety disorders in a cerebral organoid neurodevelopmental model
Authors: Proud Emma K. , Rodríguez-Ruiz Mar , Gummerson Dana M. , Vanin Sebastian , Hardy Daniel B. , Rushlow Walter J. , Laviolette Steven R.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Prenatal nicotine exposure (PNE) from maternal smoking disrupts regulatory processes vital to fetal development. These changes result in long-term behavioral impairments, including mood and anxiety disorders, that manifest later in life. However, the relationship underlying PNE, and the underpinnings of mood and anxiety molecular and transcriptomic phenotypes remains elusive.

Methods

To model nicotine exposure during prenatal development, our study used human cerebral organoids that were chronically exposed to nicotine and collected for molecular analyses.

Results

Short-term, nicotine altered molecular markers of neural identity, mood and anxiety disorders and those involved in maintaining the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance in the cortex. RNA sequencing further revealed transcriptomic changes in genes pertaining to embryonic development, neurogenesis, and DNA binding. Long-term, mature organoids demonstrated similar disruptions in E/I balance, decreased expression of neural identity markers, and altered dopamine receptor expression.

Discussion

Collectively, our results demonstrate that nicotine-induced alterations occur acutely and persist at later stages of development. These findings validate an in vitro model of PNE to better comprehend the emergence of neuropsychiatric molecular and transcriptomic endophenotypes resulting from gestational nicotine exposure.
Exosomal communication: a pivotal regulator of bone homeostasis and a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Ye Qian-Yun , Cui Yan , Wang Hao-Yu , Li Ling-Yu , Chen Jian-Bing , Zhu Xiao-Feng , Xue Zhi-Jian , Zhang Rong-Hua
Published: December 2024

Bone homeostasis encompasses two interrelated aspects: bone remodeling and cartilage metabolism. Disruption of bone homeostasis can lead to the development of metabolic bone diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. The maintenance of bone homeostasis is a complex process that does not solely rely on the functions of the bone tissue itself. In fact, bone tissue is not an isolated entity; it is closely connected to other tissues in the body via exosomes. Within this interconnectivity, exosomes derived from both bone and non-bone cells interfere with each other, forming a complex regulatory network. Therefore, with cell origin as the guiding principle, we have delineated the bone regulatory network of exosomes, elaborated on the specific roles and regulatory mechanisms of exosomes derived from common cell types (cells within the skeletal microenvironment, stem cells from extra-osseous tissues, vascular-derived cells, muscle-derived cells, and neurogenic cells) in bone formation, bone resorption, and cartilage metabolism. We have also discussed the challenges faced in the field of exosome research related to bone homeostasis, unveiled the critical role of exosomes in maintaining bone homeostasis, and proposed that exosomes could serve as highly valuable therapeutic targets for metabolic bone diseases.
Wooden breast myopathy is characterized by satellite cell dysfunction and syndecan-4 shedding
Authors: Pejšková Lucie , Pisconti Addolorata , Lunde Marianne , Ho Ka Yi , Solberg Nina Therese , Koga Shiori , Tengstrand Erik , Carlson Cathrine Rein , Pedersen Mona Elisabeth , Rønning Sissel Beate
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Skeletal muscle satellite cells (MuSCs or stem cells) play a crucial role in muscle development, maintenance, and regeneration, supporting both hypertrophy and regenerative myogenesis. Syndecans (SDCs) act as communication bridges within the muscle microenvironment, regulating interactions with extracellular matrix components and contributing significantly to tissue repair and inflammation. Specifically, syndecan-4 (SDC4) is involved in muscle regeneration at multiple stages.

Methods

This study delves into the emerging challenge of wooden breast (WB) myopathy and its connection with SDC4. Our hypothesis proposes that disruptions in MuSC dynamics through SDC4 contribute to the increased incidence of breast myopathies observed in growing broilers. To test our hypothesis, non-affected and affected broilers were systematically selected, and the characteristics of WB myopathy were studied both in vitro and in vivo. SDC4 overexpression in MuSCs and blocking peptides (BPs) corresponding to the SDC4 ectodomain were used for investigating the role of SDC4 in muscle development and its shedding levels.

Results and discussion

In vivo examination of affected muscles revealed smaller fibers and changes in metabolic pathways. In vitro studies unveiled disrupted proliferation of MuSCs in WB myopathy, accompanied by the downregulation of several muscle markers. Investigation of the potential role of SDC4 in the pathogenesis of WB myopathy revealed a decreased tendency in SDC4 gene expression and increased shedding of its ectodomain. Moreover, we showed that SDC4 overexpression is linked to reduced proliferation in MuSCs and affected myogenesis. We detected an impaired proliferation of WB-affected MuSCs, revealing critical insights into the dysfunctional state of these cells in myopathy. Additionally, by treating MuSCs with blocking peptides derived from the SDC4 ectodomain, we identified altered proliferation. Taken together, this work contributes with valuable knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying WB myopathy and the role of SDC4 in this chicken myopathy.
Core transcriptome network modulates temperature (heat and cold) and osmotic (drought, salinity, and waterlogging) stress responses in oil palm
Authors: Lee Fong Chin , Yeap Wan-Chin , Kee Shao Yong , Kulaveerasingam Harikrishna , Ross Appleton David
Published: December 2024

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) yield is impacted by abiotic stresses, leading to significant economic losses. To understand the core abiotic stress transcriptome (CAST) of oil palm, we performed RNA-Seq analyses of oil palm leaves subjected to drought, salinity, waterlogging, heat, and cold stresses. A total of 19,834 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Cold treatment induced the highest number of DEGs (5,300), followed by heat (4,114), drought (3,751), waterlogging (3,573), and, lastly, salinity (3096) stress. Subsequent analysis revealed the CAST of oil palm, comprising 588 DEGs commonly expressed under drought, salinity, waterlogging, heat, and cold stress conditions. Function annotation of these DEGs suggests their roles in signal transduction, transcription regulation, and abiotic stress responses including synthesis of osmolytes, secondary metabolites, and molecular chaperones. Moreover, we identified core DEGs encoding kinases, ERF, NAC TFs, heat shock proteins, E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase, terpineol synthase, and cytochrome P450. These core DEGs may be potential key modulators that interplay in triggering rapid abiotic stress responses to achieve delicate equilibrium between productivity and adaptation to abiotic stresses. This comprehensive study provides insights into the key modulators in the CAST of oil palm, and their potential applications as markers for selecting climate-resilient oil palms or opportunities to develop future climate resilient oil palm using genome editing.
The effect of plasma-treated nutrient solution on yield, pigments, and mineral content of rocket [Diplotaxis tenuifolia (L.) DC.] grown under different nitrogen fertilization levels
Authors: Sodini Mirko , Traversari Silvia , Cacini Sonia , Gonfiotti Irene , Lenzi Anna , Massa Daniele
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The non-thermal plasma (NTP) technique has been suggested as a sustainable horticultural practice to promote biomass accumulation, nutrient uptake, N metabolism, and disease prevention in plants. In particular, the potentiality of this technique to promote the natural accumulation of nutrients into plants deserve to be explored as input saving is strongly recommended in the horticultural sector.

Methods

The nutrient solution supplied to a red coloured variety of rocket salad [Diplotaxis tenuifolia (L.) DC. ‘Dragon’s Tongue’] grown in a hydroponic close loop system was treated with NTP. Low, medium, and high concentrations of N (i.e., 1, 10, and 20 mM) of the nutrient solution were tested in control (no NTP) or NTP treated conditions in two consecutive growing cycles.

Results and discussion

Results highlighted a N-dependent effect of NTP treatment showing a biomass stimulation at 10 mM N while negative effects of this technique at 1 and 20mM N. The biomass boosting of NTP found at 10 mMN coupled with an increase in K and Zn showing positive effects also on the nutraceutical aspects. Interestingly, different mechanisms seemed to be involved in the detrimental effects found at low and high N levels, i.e., a lower sensibility to N deficiency at 1 mM and a synergic negative effect of N and NTP in promoting oxidative stress at 20 mM.
An Iterative Pseudo Label Generation framework for semi-supervised hyperspectral image classification using the Segment Anything Model
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Zhou Guangyao , Wang Qixiong , Feng Jiaqi , Jiang Hongxiang , Zhang Guangyun , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2024

Hyperspectral image classification in remote sensing often encounters challenges due to limited annotated data. Semi-supervised learning methods present a promising solution. However, their performance is heavily influenced by the quality of pseudo labels. This limitation is particularly pronounced during the early stages of training, when the model lacks adequate prior knowledge. In this paper, we propose an Iterative Pseudo Label Generation (IPG) framework based on the Segment Anything Model (SAM) to harness structural prior information for semi-supervised hyperspectral image classification. We begin by using a small number of annotated labels as SAM point prompts to generate initial segmentation masks. Next, we introduce a spectral voting strategy that aggregates segmentation masks from multiple spectral bands into a unified mask. To ensure the reliability of pseudo labels, we design a spatial-information-consistency-driven loss function that optimizes IPG to adaptively select the most dependable pseudo labels from the unified mask. These selected pseudo labels serve as iterative point prompts for SAM. Following a suitable number of iterations, the resultant pseudo labels can be employed to enrich the training data for the classification model. Experiments conducted on the Indian Pines and Pavia University datasets demonstrate that even a simple 2D CNN based classification model trained with our generated pseudo labels significantly outperforms eight state-of-the-art hyperspectral image classification methods.
Effect of passion on the athlete engagement of college students specializing in DanceSport: the mediating role of the DanceSport partnership
Authors: Ziyou Huang , Yuxin Yuan , Xiaofen Li
Published: December 2024

Objective

This research investigates the influence of passion on DanceSport engagement (DSE) among university students specializing in DanceSport, along with the mediating function of DanceSport partnership (DSP).

Methods

A survey involving 1,029 participants was conducted using the Passion Scale, Athlete Engagement Questionnaire, and Chinese DanceSport Partnership Scale.

Results

There were significant positive associations among passion, DSP, and DSE. The path coefficient revealed that passion had a 0.631 (p < 0.001) effect on DSE, a 0.548 (p < 0.001) effect on DSP, and DSP had a 0.217 (p < 0.001) effect on DSE. The direct impact of passion on DSE was 0.725, while the indirect impact was calculated at 0.137, resulting in a total effect of 0.862.

Conclusion

Passion was identified as an internal motivator enhancing DSE, whereas DSP was found to be an external factor contributing to the increase in DSE levels. DSP played a partial mediating role in the influence of passion on DSE, the more harmonious the DSP, the higher the engagement level. In the future, by understanding the current status and trends of college students’ passion, DSE, and DSP, coaches can timely adjust course content to enhance engagement levels and sports performance by exchanging partners and changing cooperation forms.
Association between weekday sleep, weekday-weekend sleep duration gap, and hypertension in American adolescents: a nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Luo Yan , Li Qingyuan , Feng Tong , Duan Ran , Chen Yingyi
Published: December 2024

Background

The increasing prevalence of primary hypertension among children and adolescents is a global health concern, with inadequate sleep duration identified as a significant risk factor. This study investigates the impact of weekday-weekend sleep duration gap (WWSDG) on hypertension among American adolescents.

Methods

Using data from the NHANES 2017-2020 cohort, we analyzed sleep patterns and hypertension prevalence among 430 adolescents. Sleep durations on weekdays and weekends were used to calculate WWSDG. Hypertension was defined according to the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines.

Results

The study found that among 430 American adolescents, shorter weekday sleep duration (less than 8 hours) was significantly associated with an increased risk of hypertension (OR: 1.092, 95% CI: 1.042–1.144), while extended weekend sleep did not show a protective effect. Additionally, longer total weekly sleep duration (over 10 hours) was linked to a reduced risk of hypertension, but the difference in sleep duration between weekdays and weekends was not significantly correlated with hypertension risk.

Conclusions

The study highlighted that insufficient weekday sleep duration significantly increases hypertension risk among adolescents. Contrary to popular belief, compensating for sleep deprivation through extended WWSDG did not mitigate this risk. Public health interventions should focus on promoting consistent and adequate sleep throughout the week for cardiovascular health benefits in adolescents. Further longitudinal research is necessary to explore causal relationships and the long-term effects of sleep variability on health outcomes.
Macro-level socioeconomic factors and mental health in midlife and older adults in China: a multilevel analysis
Authors: Li Guannan , Tampubolon Gindo , Maharani Asri , Tu Chenglin
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study explores the associations between four macro-level factors—Economic Development (ED), Economic Inequality (EI), Governmental Willingness and capacities to invest in Public Health (GWPH) and Public Health-Related Infrastructures (PHRI)—and three mental health indicators: depressive symptoms, cognitive function and life satisfaction, among middle-aged and older adults in China.

Materials and methods

We obtained individual-level data from the Harmonised China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (H-CHARLS) 2018 and acquired our provincial-level data from the Chinese Statistical Yearbook. Two-level linear mixed models are used to examine the associations. Supplementary analyses are carried out to test the robustness of the study.

Results

There are provincial variations in macro-level factors. Depressive symptoms and cognitive functions also vary across provinces, whereas life satisfaction does not. We find that ED contributes to better depressive status. EI contributes to worse cognitive functions and life dissatisfaction. GWPH and PHRI are not associated with mental health.

Conclusion

The study suggests that macro-level ED contributes to better depressive status. EI and potential systematic inequality lead to worsened cognitive functions and life dissatisfaction. It is too soon to generalise whether institutional factors like GWPH and PHRI are good or bad for mental health, but the current public health system in China does not adequately support mental and cognitive health.
The challenge of home and community older adult care in China: a survey of the capability of primary care physicians in providing geriatric healthcare services
Authors: Chen Xiufang , Xie Kun , Li Yahui , Hu Dan , Chen Yong , Chen Jiaying
Published: December 2024

Introduction

In the context of ageing at home and in the community, healthcare services for older adult people in China are mainly provided by primary care physicians (PCPs). This study aimed to understand the level of geriatric healthcare service capability of PCPs in China and to give recommendations for improving care.

Methods

We surveyed PCPs in the eastern, central, and western regions of China, using a combination of multi-stage stratified cluster sampling and typical sampling. We evaluated the capability of PCPs in geriatric healthcare services in terms of diagnosis and treatment of common diseases, health management of the older adult, and health management of patients with chronic diseases. We compared the capability of PCPs in different regions, in urban and rural areas, and with different characteristics.

Results

We found that Chinese primary care doctors had a low level of education and tended to be older in age. We also found a lack of general practitioners in China. Among the 8,469 respondents, 6,497 (76.7%) could diagnose and treat common diseases; 7,755 (91.6%) were capable of managing the health of the older adult, and 7,787 (91.9%) could manage the health of patients with chronic diseases.

Conclusion

Results indicated that China’s primary care physician workforce was of low quality. There were deficiencies in all competencies in geriatric healthcare services, and there were differences in capability between urban and rural areas. The findings suggest China’s primary healthcare services should be strengthened with targeted training and an emphasis should be placed on developing basic skills in geriatric healthcare services.
The relationship between sleep duration and frailty: findings from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Huang Liyan , He Xiaofang , Zuo Yao , Yang Hui , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2024

Background

Research investigating the association between sleep duration and the risk of frailty has yielded conflicting results. This study used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) to investigate the association between sleep duration and frailty.

Methods

Participants aged 45 and above at baseline were included in this study. Night or total sleep was categorized into three groups: short (<6 h), normal (6–9 h), and long sleep duration (≥9 h). Frailty was measured by a 31-item frailty index (FI). Non-frail participants at baseline were followed up after a 7-year period. The association between sleep duration and FI was examined by linear regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis. The relationship between sleep duration and the risk of frailty was evaluated using multinomial logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 10,258/10,250 (night/total sleep duration) participants were included in the cross-sectional study and 4,770/4,768 in the longitudinal study. A negative correlation was identified between the both night and total sleep duration and FI (night: β = −0.83, p < 0.001; total: β = −0.66, p < 0.001) after adjusting for age, sex, education level, marital status, residence, yearly expenditure, BMI, waist circumference, smoking status, and drinking status in the cross-sectional study. In the longitudinal study, the relationship remained. Short sleep duration increased FI (night: β = 3.59, p < 0.001; total: β = 3.74, p < 0.001) and the risk of frailty (night: OR [95% confidence interval (CI)], 1.06 [1.05, 1.08], p < 0.001; total: 1.07 [1.06, 1.08], p < 0.001) compared to normal sleep duration in the fully adjusted model of the cross-sectional study. The result remains consistent in the longitudinal analysis.

Conclusion

Short sleep duration increases the risk of frailty in Chinese individuals aged 45 and above. Extending sleep duration in this population may help prevent or alleviate frailty among middle-aged and older adult individuals.
Application of microalgae in wastewater treatment with special reference to emerging contaminants: a step towards sustainability
Authors: Kundu Pritha , Dutta Nalok , Bhattacharya Sayan
Published: December 2024

Emerging contaminants includes diverse types of synthetic or natural chemical compounds which are not detected, monitored, or controlled in the environment regularly and are released from anthropogenic activities. Substantial quantities of emerging contaminants can be found in the wastewater, originating from agro-industrial and industrial outlets, containing oil and grease, heavy metals, and harmful chemicals. Different species of microalgae can be applied in biological remediation of such contaminants in wastewater. This research emphasizes the multifaceted roles of microalgae in wastewater treatment in context of pollutants, especially the removal of emerging contaminants. A comprehensive overview of different emerging contaminant removal processes was conveyed through an in-depth examination and depiction of the uptake mechanisms employed by microalgae in wastewater treatment in this review. The final section of this review focuses on the articulation of difficulties and prospects for the future of microalgae-based wastewater treatment technology. It is subsequently established how the microalgal technologies for emerging contaminant remediation can be helpful to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This review establishes the connection between phytoremediation technologies with Sustainable Development, and shows how successful implementation of such technologies can lead to the remediation of emerging contaminants and effective management of wastewater.