bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of selected factors on perceived enjoyment of the online learning experience: lessons for post-COVID-19 classrooms
Authors: van der Walt Freda , Nkoyi Anele , Thithi Mpho
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Since digital transformation has become a priority in the higher education landscape, it is unlikely that higher education institutions will return to traditional face-to-face teaching and learning. Many higher education institutions have adopted a hybrid approach to teaching and learning in a post-Covid-19 setting. This unplanned forced change has raised concerns about the quality of online teaching and learning, as well as issues related to the student experience thereof. Therefore, it is necessary to consider possible factors that may influence students’ perceived enjoyment of the online teaching and learning experience. To date, very few studies have considered the antecedents of perceived enjoyment of online teaching and learning. The purpose of this paper was to determine the influence of selected factors of online teaching and learning on the perceived enjoyment of students.

Methods

Quantitative data was collected, and the final sample consisted of 501 students enrolled at higher education institutions.

Results

The findings showed that cognitive benefits, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use are statistically significantly correlated with students’ perceived enjoyment of the online learning experience.

Discussion

The current study contributes to existing knowledge regarding the intention of continued use of online teaching and learning. The findings of this study are also practically relevant for enhancing students’ online learning experiences in a post-Covid-19 setting.
Resilience and self-regulated learning as predictors of student competence gain in times of the COVID 19 pandemic – evidence from a binational sample
Authors: Imhof Margarete , Worthington Debra , Burger Julian , Bellhäuser Henrik
Published: January 2024

Emergency Remote Teaching (ERT) was introduced around the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that students could continue with their studies during social distancing. Subsequent studies found considerable individual differences in the adjustment to ERT and identified resilience as a critical factor for coping with the challenges of independent studying. The growing evidence led to calls for resilience training in preparation for emergency situations. Against the backdrop of a three-phase model of self-regulated learning, this study examines self-regulated learning activities as an additional protective resource and a predictor for academic performance in ERT. Results from a survey of resilience, self-regulated learning strategies, and competence gain completed by students from universities in the US and Germany (N = 333) found self-regulated learning strategies to be more predictive of student competence gain than resilience. As a consequence, in addition to fostering resilience, institutions should also include self-regulation strategies in student training and support programs to better prepare students for academic success.
The value of luteinizing hormone basal values and sex hormone-binding globulin for early diagnosis of rapidly progressive central precocious puberty
Authors: Zhang Meiyu , Sun Jun , Wang Ying , Wu Yanhui , Li Xiaona , Li Rong , Fang Yafei , Bai Hua , Luo Peiliang , Yuan Yingdi
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of luteinizing hormone (LH) basal values and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) for rapidly progressive central precocious puberty (RP-CPP).

Methods

A total of 121 girls presenting with secondary sexual characteristics were selected from the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Lianyungang Clinical Medical College of Nanjing Medical University, from May 2021 to June 2023. The children were followed up for 6 months and were divided into three groups: RP-CPP group (n=40), slowly progressive central precocious puberty (SP-CPP) group (n=40), and premature thelarche (PT) group (n=41). The differences in LH basal values and SHBG among girls in the three groups were compared. ROC curves were drawn to analyze the value of LH basal values and SHBG in identifying RP-CPP.

Results

Significant differences were observed in age, height, predicted adult height (PAH), weight, body mass index (BMI), bone age (BA), BA-chronological age (CA), LH basal, LH peak, FSH basal, LH peak/FSH peak, estradiol (E2), testosterone, and SHBG levels between the RP-CPP group and the SP-CPP and PT groups (P < 0.05). The LH basal value in the RP-CPP group was higher than that in the SP-CPP group and the PT group, while SHBG levels were lower than in the latter two groups, and these differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). When the LH basal value was ≥0.58 IU/L and SHBG was ≤58.79 nmol/L, the sensitivity for diagnosing RP-CPP was 77.5% and 67.5%, and the specificity was 66.7% and 74.1%.

Conclusion

Detection of basal LH and SHBG levels allows for early diagnosis of the progression of central precocious puberty.
Correlation between systemic inflammatory response index and thyroid function: 2009-2012 NHANES results
Authors: Zhai Yuze , Wang Benjun , Han Weiwei , Yu Bianfang , Ci Jichen , An Fan
Published: January 2024

Aims

This study investigates the relationship between the Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI) and thyroid function.

Methods

Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009-2012, we excluded participants lacking SIRI or thyroid function data, those under 20 years, and pregnant individuals. SIRI was determined using blood samples. We conducted weighted multivariate regression and subgroup analyses to discern the independent relationship between SIRI and thyroid function.

Results

The study included 1,641 subjects, with an average age of 47.26±16.77 years, including 48.65% males and 51.35% females. The population was divided into three SIRI-based groups (Q1-Q3). Q3, compared to Q1, exhibited higher age-at-onset, greater male prevalence, and increased levels of FT3, FT4, TT4, leukocytes, and triglycerides. This group also showed a higher incidence of diabetes, hypertension, and smoking. Notably, Q1 had lower LDL and HDL levels. SIRI maintained a positive association with FT4 (β = 0.01, 95% CI = 0.00-0.03, P for trend = 0.0071), TT4 (β = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.10, 0.31, P for trend=0.0001), and TPOAb (β = 8.0, 95% CI = 1.77-14.30, P for trend = 0.0120), indicating that each quartile increase in SIRI corresponded to a 0.01 ng/dL increase in FT4, a 0.2 g/dL increase in TT4, and an 8.03 IU/mL rise in TPOAb. The subgroup analysis suggested the SIRI-thyroid function correlation was influenced by hypertension.

Conclusion

Inflammation may impact the development and progression of thyroid function disorders. Proactive anti-inflammatory treatment might mitigate thyroid abnormalities.
Association between the triglyceride glucose index and heart failure: NHANES 2007–2018
Authors: Zhang Fudan , Hou Xu
Published: January 2024

Background

Patients with heart failure (HF) were compared with non-HF people to explore the relationship between the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and HF in participants with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

Methods

TyG index was calculated as ln [fasting triglyceride (mg/dL) × fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2]. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate the association between the TyG index and the risk of HF. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was applied to evaluate the dose–response relationship between the TyG index and the risk of HF.

Results

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2007–2018) was used to analyze the association between TyG and HF in patients. A total of 13,825 participants who had their TyG index measured were included, involving 435 individuals with HF and 13,390 individuals without HF. Those with HF had higher levels of the TyG index compared with those without HF (8.91 ± 0.74 vs. 8.57 ± 0.66, p < 0.001). The odds ratio (OR) of HF for the TyG index from logistic regression was 1.644 and 1.057 in Model 1 (without adjusting for any variables) and Model 4 (adjusted for all covariates), respectively. Compared with individuals with Q1, a higher TyG index was related to the increased risk of HF. Model 1 showed that there was a linear dose–response relationship between the TyG index and HF (p = 0.686). The TyG index predicted the area of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.602 (95% CI: 0.575–0.629, p < 0.001) and the optimal cutoff value was 8.91.

Conclusion

The TyG index was positively associated with the risk of HF. The TyG index may be a therapeutic target and an important predictor of HF.
The causal relationship between 41 inflammatory cytokines and hypothyroidism: bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lai Rui , Yin Bingzun , Feng Ziyang , Deng Xinmin , Lv Xiaofeng , Zhong Yumei , Peng Dezhong
Published: January 2024

Objective

Investigating the association between inflammatory cytokines and hypothyroidism remains challenging due to limitations in traditional observational studies. In this study, we employed Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess the causal relationship between 41 inflammatory cytokines and hypothyroidism.

Method

Inflammatory cytokines in 30,155 individuals of European ancestry with hypothyroidism and in a GWAS summary containing 8,293 healthy participants were included in the study for bidirectional two-sample MR analysis. We utilized inverse variance weighting (IVW), weighted median (WM), and Mendelian randomization-Egger (MR-Egger) methods. Multiple sensitivity analyses, including MR-Egger intercept test, leave-one-out analysis, funnel plot, scatterplot, and MR-PRESSO, were applied to evaluate assumptions.

Results

We found evidence of a causal effect of IL-7 and macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β) on the risk of hypothyroidism, and a causal effect of hypothyroidism on several cytokines, including granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), IL-13, IL-16, IL-2rα, IL-6, IL-7, IL-9, interferon-γ-inducible protein 10 (IP10), monokine induced by interferon (IFN)-γ (MIG), macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β), stem cell growth factors-β (SCGF-β), stromal cell derived factor-1α (SDF-1α), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that IL-7 and MIP-1β may play a role in the pathogenesis of hypothyroidism, and that hypothyroidism may induce a systemic inflammatory response involving multiple cytokines. These findings may have implications for the prevention and treatment of hypothyroidism and its complications. However, further experimental studies are needed to validate the causal relationships and the potential of these cytokines as drug targets.
Gut microbiota and polycystic ovary syndrome, focus on genetic associations: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Jing , Fiori Pier Luigi , Capobianco Giampiero , Carru Ciriaco , Chen Zhichao
Published: January 2024

Background

The contribution of gut microbiota to the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is controversial. The causal relationship to this question is worth an in-depth comprehensive of known single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with gut microbiota.

Methods

We conducted bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) utilizing instrumental variables associated with gut microbiota (N = 18,340) from MiBioGen GWAS to assess their impact on PCOS risk in the FinnGen GWAS (27,943 PCOS cases and 162,936 controls). Two-sample MR using inverse variance weighting (IVW) was undertaken, followed by the weighted median, weighted mode, and MR-Egger regression. In a subsample, we replicated our findings using the meta-analysis PCOS consortium (10,074 cases and 103,164 controls) from European ancestry.

Results

IVWMR results suggested that six gut microbiota were causally associated with PCOS features. After adjusting BMI, SHBG, fasting insulin, testosterone, and alcohol intake frequency, the effect sizes were significantly reduced. Reverse MR analysis revealed that the effects of PCOS features on 13 gut microbiota no longer remained significant after sensitivity analysis and Bonferroni corrections. MR replication analysis was consistent and the results suggest that gut microbiota was likely not an independent cause of PCOS.

Conclusion

Our findings did not support the causal relationships between the gut microbiota and PCOS features at the genetic level. More comprehensive genome-wide association studies of the gut microbiota and PCOS are warranted to confirm their genetic relationship.

Declaration

This study contains 3533 words, 0 tables, and six figures in the text as well as night supplementary files and 0 supplementary figures in the Supplementary material.
The functional role of cellular senescence during vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Fang Ya-Ping , Zhao Yu , Huang Jia-Yi , Yang Xin , Liu Yan , Zhang Xiao-Liang
Published: January 2024

Vascular calcification (VC) has emerged as a key predictor of cardiovascular events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In recent years, an expanding body of research has put forth the concept of accelerated vascular aging among CKD patients, highlighting the significance of vascular cells senescence in the process of VC. Within the milieu of uremia, senescent vascular endothelial cells (VECs) release extracellular microvesicles (MV) that promote vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) senescence, thereby triggering the subsequent osteogenic phenotypic switch and ultimately contributing to the VC process. In addition, senescent vascular progenitor or stem cells with diminished ability to differentiate into VECs and VSMCS, compromise the repair of vascular integrity, on the other hand, release a cascade of molecules associated with senescence, collectively known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), perpetuating the senescence phenomenon. Furthermore, SASP triggers the recruitment of monocytes and macrophages, as well as adjacent VECs and VSMCs into a pro-adhesive and pro-inflammatory senescent state. This pro-inflammatory microenvironment niche not only impacts the functionality of immune cells but also influences the differentiation of myeloid immune cells, thereby amplifying the reduced ability to effectively clear senescent cells of senescent macrophages, promoted calcification of VSMCs. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the contribution of vascular cell senescence to the emergence and advancement of VC. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the involvement of cellular senescence within the vessel wall is pivotal, especially when it comes to its intersection with VC. This knowledge is essential for advancing groundbreaking anti-aging therapies, aiming to effectively mitigate cardiovascular diseases.
Long-term land cover changes assessment in the Jiului Valley mining basin in Romania
Authors: Vorovencii Iosif
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Highlighting and assessing land cover changes in a heterogeneous landscape, such as those with surface mining activities, allows for understanding the dynamics and status of the analyzed area. This paper focuses on the long-term land cover changes in the Jiului Valley, the largest mining basin in Romania, using Landsat temporal image series from 1988 to 2017.

Methods: The images were classified using the supervised Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm incorporating four kernel functions and two common algorithms (Maximum Likelihood Classification - MLC) and (Minimum Distance - MD). Seven major land cover classes have been identified: forest, pasture, agricultural land, built-up areas, mined areas, dump sites, and water bodies. The accuracy of every classification algorithm was evaluated through independent validation, and the differences in accuracy were subsequently analyzed. Using the best-performing SVM-RBF algorithm, classified maps of the study area were developed and used for assessing land cover changes by post-classification comparison (PCC).

Results and discussions: All three algorithms displayed an overall accuracy, ranging from 76.56% to 90.68%. The SVM algorithms outperformed MLC by 4.87%–8.80% and MD by 6.82%–10.67%. During the studied period, changes occurred within analyzed classes, both directly and indirectly: forest, built-up areas, mined areas, and water bodies experienced increases, whereas pasture, agricultural land, and dump areas saw declines. The most notable changes between 1988 and 2017 were observed in built-up and dump areas: the built-up areas increased by 110.7%, while the dump sites decreased by 53.0%. The mined class showed an average growth of 6.5%. By highlighting and mapping long-term land cover changes in this area, along with their underlying causes, it became possible to analyze the impact of land management and usage on sustainable development and conservation effort over time.
The value of genome-wide analysis in craniosynostosis
Authors: Topa Alexandra , Rohlin Anna , Fehr André , Lovmar Lovisa , Stenman Göran , Tarnow Peter , Maltese Giovanni , Bhatti-Søfteland Madiha , Kölby Lars
Published: January 2024

Background: This study assessed the diagnostic yield of high-throughput sequencing methods in a cohort of craniosynostosis (CS) patients not presenting causal variants identified through previous targeted analysis.

Methods: Whole-genome or whole-exome sequencing (WGS/WES) was performed in a cohort of 59 patients (from 57 families) assessed by retrospective phenotyping as having syndromic or nonsyndromic CS.

Results: A syndromic form was identified in 51% of the unrelated cases. A genetic cause was identified in 38% of syndromic cases, with novel variants detected in FGFR2 (a rare Alu insertion), TWIST1, TCF12, KIAA0586, HDAC9, FOXP1, and NSD2. Additionally, we report two patients with rare recurrent variants in KAT6A and YY1 as well as two patients with structural genomic aberrations: one with a 22q13 duplication and one with a complex rearrangement involving chromosome 2 (2p25 duplication including SOX11 and deletion of 2q22). Moreover, we identified potentially relevant variants in 87% of the remaining families with no previously detected causal variants, including novel variants in ADAMTSL4, ASH1L, ATRX, C2CD3, CHD5, ERF, H4C5, IFT122, IFT140, KDM6B, KMT2D, LTBP1, MAP3K7, NOTCH2, NSD1, SOS1, SPRY1, POLR2A, PRRX1, RECQL4, TAB2, TAOK1, TET3, TGFBR1, TCF20, and ZBTB20.

Conclusion: These results confirm WGS/WES as a powerful diagnostic tool capable of either targeted in silico or broad genomic analysis depending on phenotypic presentation (e.g., classical or unusual forms of syndromic CS).
Soluble CD147 regulates endostatin via its effects on the activities of MMP-9 and secreted proteasome 20S
Authors: Rahat Maya M. , Sabtan Hala , Simanovich Elina , Haddad Amir , Gazitt Tal , Feld Joy , Slobodin Gleb , Kibari Adi , Elias Muna , Zisman Devy , Rahat Michal A.
Published: January 2024

During progression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), angiogenesis provides oxygen and nutrients for the cells’ increased metabolic demands and number. To turn on angiogenesis, pro-angiogenic factors must outweigh anti-angiogenic factors. We have previously shown that CD147/extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) can induce the expression of the pro-angiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) in a co-culture of the human HT1080 fibrosarcoma and U937 monocytic-like cell lines. However, whether CD147 influences anti-angiogenic factors was not known. We now show that relative to single cultures, the co-culture of these cells not only enhanced pro-angiogenic factors but also decreased the anti-angiogenic factors endostatin and thrombospondin-1 (Tsp-1), generally increasing the angiogenic potential as measured by a wound assay. Using anti-CD147 antibody, CD147 small interfering RNA (siRNA), and recombinant CD147, we demonstrate that CD147 hormetically regulates the generation of endostatin but has no effect on Tsp-1. Since endostatin is cleaved from collagen XVIII (Col18A), we applied different protease inhibitors and established that MMP-9 and proteasome 20S, but not cathepsins, are responsible for endostatin generation. MMP-9 and proteasome 20S collaborate to synergistically enhance endostatin generation, and in a non-cellular system, CD147 enhanced MMP-9 activity and hormetically regulated proteasome 20S activity. Serum samples obtained from RA patients and healthy controls mostly corroborated these findings, indicating clinical relevance. Cumulatively, these findings suggest that secreted CD147 mediates a possibly allosteric effect on MMP-9 and proteasome 20S activities and can serve as a switch that turns angiogenesis on or off, depending on its ambient concentrations in the microenvironment.
TCR-transgenic T cells and YB-1-based oncolytic virotherapy improve survival in a preclinical Ewing sarcoma xenograft mouse model
Authors: Schober Sebastian J. , Thiede Melanie , Gassmann Hendrik , von Ofen Anna Josefine , Knoch Pia , Eck Jennifer , Prexler Carolin , Kordass-Wally Corazon , Hauer Julia , Burdach Stefan , Holm Per Sonne , Thiel Uwe
Published: January 2024

Background

Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is an aggressive and highly metastatic bone and soft tissue tumor in pediatric patients and young adults. Cure rates are low when patients present with metastatic or relapsed disease. Therefore, innovative therapy approaches are urgently needed. Cellular- and oncolytic virus-based immunotherapies are on the rise for solid cancers.

Methods

Here, we assess the combination of EwS tumor-associated antigen CHM1319-specific TCR-transgenic CD8+ T cells and the YB-1-driven (i.e. E1A13S-deleted) oncolytic adenovirus XVir-N-31 in vitro and in a xenograft mouse model for antitumor activity and immunostimulatory properties.

Results

In vitro both approaches specifically kill EwS cell lines in a synergistic manner over controls. This effect was confirmed in vivo, with increased survival using the combination therapy. Further in vitro analyses of immunogenic cell death and antigen presentation confirmed immunostimulatory properties of virus-infected EwS tumor cells. As dendritic cell maturation was also increased by XVir-N-31, we observed superior proliferation of CHM1319-specific TCR-transgenic CD8+ T cells only in virus-tested conditions, emphasizing the superior immune-activating potential of XVir-N-31.

Conclusion

Our data prove synergistic antitumor effects in vitro and superior tumor control in a preclinical xenograft setting. Combination strategies of EwS-redirected T cells and YB-1-driven virotherapy are a highly promising immunotherapeutic approach for EwS and warrant further evaluation in a clinical setting.
A nitrogen isoscape of phytoplankton in the western North Pacific created with a marine nitrogen isotope model
Authors: Yoshikawa Chisato , Shigemitsu Masahito , Yamamoto Akitomo , Oka Akira , Ohkouchi Naohiko
Published: January 2024

The nitrogen isotopic composition (δ15N) of phytoplankton varies substantially in the ocean reflecting biogeochemical processes such as N2 fixation, denitrification, and nitrate assimilation by phytoplankton. The δ15N values of zooplankton or fish inherit the values of the phytoplankton on which they feed. Combining δ15N values of marine organisms with a map of δ15N values (i.e., a nitrogen isoscape) of phytoplankton can reveal the habitat of marine organisms. Remarkable progress has been made in reconstructing time-series of δ15N values of migratory fish from various tissues, such as otoliths, fish scales, vertebrae, and eye lenses. However, there are no accurate nitrogen isoscapes of phytoplankton due to observational heterogeneity, preventing improvement in the accuracy of estimating migratory routes using the fish δ15N values. Here we present a nitrogen isoscape of phytoplankton in the western North Pacific created with a nitrogen isotope model. The simulated phytoplankton is relatively depleted in 15N at the subtropical site (annual average δ15N value of phytoplankton of 0.6‰), where N2 fixation occurs, and at the subarctic site (2.1‰), where nitrate assimilation by phytoplankton is low due to iron limitation. The simulated phytoplankton is enriched in 15N at the Kuroshio–Oyashio transition site (3.9‰), where nitrate utilization is high, and in the region around the Bering Strait site (6.7‰), where partial nitrification and benthic denitrification occur. The simulated δ15N distributions of nitrate, phytoplankton, and particulate organic nitrogen are consistent with δ15N observations in the western North Pacific. The seamless nitrogen isoscapes created in this study can be used to improve our understanding of the habitat of marine organisms or fish migration in the western North Pacific.
Computer-modified paramedian approach technique reduces failures and alleviates pain in lumbar puncture: a prospective comparative study
Authors: Zhuang Yuan-Dong , Xie Hai-Shu , Chen Jing , Wu Guo-Hua , Wu Jian-Feng , Chen Chun-Mei
Published: January 2024

Background

The conventional midline approach for lumbar puncture (MAT-LP) has a relatively low success rate of 70%. The paramedian approach can increase the effective puncture area and success rate but lacks standardized guidelines. This study evaluated a computer-modified paramedian approach technique (CMPAT) to optimize lumbar puncture using computational techniques.

Methods

In this prospective study, 120 patients underwent CMPAT-LP (n = 60) or MAT-LP (n = 60). Puncture failure was defined after 6 attempts. Failure rate, number of attempts, pain score, and complications were compared. Subgroup analysis was conducted for age (≥ 50 years).

Results

No significant demographic differences existed between groups. Failure rates were 3.3% for CMPAT vs. 13.3% for MAT. Puncture attempts averaged 2.0 vs. 3.5 and pain scores were 2.7 vs. 4.1 for CMPAT and MAT, respectively. All outcomes were significantly improved with CMPAT, especially in elderly patients. No significant difference in complications was observed.

Conclusion

Compared to MAT, CMPAT-LP demonstrated lower failure rates, fewer puncture attempts, and less pain, without compromising safety. CMPAT may be superior and should be more widely implemented in clinical practice.
A new Rogue-like Escherichia phage UDF157lw to control Escherichia coli O157:H7
Authors: Liao Yen-Te , Ho Kan-Ju , Zhang Yujie , Salvador Alexandra , Wu Vivian C. H.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O157:H7 is one of the notorious foodborne pathogens causing high mortality through the consumption of contaminated food items. The food safety risk from STEC pathogens could escalate when a group of bacterial cells aggregates to form a biofilm. Bacterial biofilm can diminish the effects of various antimicrobial interventions and enhance the pathogenicity of the pathogens. Therefore, there is an urgent need to have effective control measurements. Bacteriophages can kill the target bacterial cells through lytic infection, and some enzymes produced during the infection have the capability to penetrate the biofilm for mitigation compared to traditional interventions. This study aimed to characterize a new Escherichia phage vB_EcoS-UDF157lw (or UDF157lw) and determine its antimicrobial efficacy against E. coli O157:H7.

Methods

Phage characterization included biological approaches, including phage morphology, one-step growth curve, stability tests (pH and temperature), and genomic approaches (whole-genome sequencing). Later, antimicrobial activity tests, including productive infection against susceptible bacterial strains, in vitro antimicrobial activity, and anti-biofilm, were conducted.

Results

UDF157lw is a new member of the phages belonging to the Rogunavirus genus, comprising a long and non-contractile tail, isolated from bovine feces and shares close genomic evolutionary similarities with Escherichia phages vB_EcoS-BECP10 and bV_EcoS_AKS96. When used against E. coli O157:H7 (ATCC35150), phage UDF157lw exhibited a latent period of 14 min and a burst size of 110 PFU per infected cell. The phage remained viable in a wide range of pH values (pH 4–11) and temperatures (4–60°C). No virulence genes, such as stx, lysogenic genes, and antibiotic resistance genes, were found. Phage UDF157lw demonstrated high infection efficiencies against different E. coli O157:H7 and generic E. coli strains. In addition, UDF157lw encoded a unique major tail protein (ORF_26) with prominent depolymerase enzyme activity against various E. coli O157:H7 strains, causing large plaque sizes. In contrast to the phage without encoding depolymerase gene, UDF157lw was able to reduce the 24-h and 48-h E. coli O157:H7 biofilm after 1-h phage treatment.

Discussion

The findings of this study provide insights into a new member of the Rogunavirus phages and demonstrate its antimicrobial potential against E. coli O157:H7 in vitro.
An interpretative review of the wastewater-based surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2: where do we stand on its presence and concern?
Authors: Gogoi Gayatri , Singh Sarangthem Dinamani , Kalyan Emon , Koch Devpratim , Gogoi Pronami , Kshattry Suman , Mahanta Hridoy Jyoti , Imran Md , Pandey Rajesh , Bharali Pankaj
Published: January 2024

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has been used for monitoring infectious diseases like polio, hepatitis, etc. since the 1940s. It is also being used for tracking the SARS-CoV-2 at the population level. This article aims to compile and assess the information for the qualitative and quantitative detection of the SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. Based on the globally published studies, we highlight the importance of monitoring SARS-CoV-2 presence/detection in the wastewater and concurrently emphasize the development of early surveillance techniques. SARS-CoV-2 RNA sheds in the human feces, saliva, sputum and mucus that ultimately reaches to the wastewater and brings viral RNA into it. For the detection of the virus in the wastewater, different detection techniques have been optimized and are in use. These are based on serological, biosensor, targeted PCR, and next generation sequencing for whole genome sequencing or targeted amplicon sequencing. The presence of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater could be used as a potential tool for early detection and devising the strategies for eradication of the virus before it is spread in the community. Additionally, with the right and timely understanding of viral behavior in the environment, an accurate and instructive model that leverages WBE-derived data may be created. This might help with the creation of technological tools and doable plans of action to lessen the negative effects of current viral epidemics or future potential outbreaks on public health and the economy. Further work toward whether presence of viral load correlates with its ability to induce infection, still needs evidence. The current increasing incidences of JN.1 variant is a case in point for continued early detection and surveillance, including wastewater.
Potential role for vitamin D vs. intermittent fasting in controlling aquaporin-1 and aquaporin-3 expression in HFD-induced urinary bladder alterations in rats
Authors: Hassan Hend M. , El-Gamal Randa , Hamed Walaa. H. E. , Habotta Ola Ali , Samy Mervat , Elmowafy Rasha , ElNashar Eman Mohamed , Alghamdi Mansour Abdullah , Aldahhan Rashid A. , Al-Khater Khulood Mohammed , Alshehri Mohammed A. , Ahmed Magda E.
Published: January 2024

Background: High-fat diet-induced obesity is linked to suppression of aquaporins (AQPs) expression in different tissues. Both vitamin D and intermittent fasting were identified to enhance AQPs expression. In the urinary bladder, AQP-1 and AQP-3 mRNA transcripts were identified. Vitamin D has an impact on a variety of genes that encode proteins that control cell proliferation, differentiation, and death.

Aim: To assess potential benefits of vitamin D and intermittent fasting (IF) and to explore alterations to the urinary bladder triggered by high-fat diet (HFD) in a rat model of obesity.

Methods: Each of the 4 groups contained six adult male albino rats; control: a standard rodent chew for 12 weeks, HFD: HFD and fructose were administered orally via gastric gavage for 12 weeks, and vitamin D: HFD and fructose were administered orally for 8 weeks, then 4 weeks of intraperitoneal injection of vitamin D (5 microns/Kg/2 days) and IF group: Received intraperitoneal injections of vitamin D (5 microns/Kg/2 days) for 4 weeks after consumption of HFD and fructose orally for 8 weeks. The serum lipid profile was conducted at end of the experiment. In the bladder homogenates, the levels of oxidative stress indicators were assessed. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed on recently collected bladder samples. AQP-1 and AQP-3 immunohistochemistry was done.

Results: When compared to the HFD group, the vitamin D and IF groups both demonstrated a substantial improvement in histopathological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and molecular markers.

Conclusion: In all examined parameters, IF exceeded vitamin D as a preventive factor for the urinary bladder deterioration.
Advanced framework for epilepsy detection through image-based EEG signal analysis
Authors: Krishnan Palani Thanaraj , Erramchetty Sudheer Kumar , Balusa Bhanu Chander
Published: January 2024

Background

Recurrent and unpredictable seizures characterize epilepsy, a neurological disorder affecting millions worldwide. Epilepsy diagnosis is crucial for timely treatment and better outcomes. Electroencephalography (EEG) time-series data analysis is essential for epilepsy diagnosis and surveillance. Complex signal processing methods used in traditional EEG analysis are computationally demanding and difficult to generalize across patients. Researchers are using machine learning to improve epilepsy detection, particularly visual feature extraction from EEG time-series data.

Objective

This study examines the application of a Gramian Angular Summation Field (GASF) approach for the analysis of EEG signals. Additionally, it explores the utilization of image features, specifically the Scale-Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT) and Oriented FAST and Rotated BRIEF (ORB) techniques, for the purpose of epilepsy detection in EEG data.

Methods

The proposed methodology encompasses the transformation of EEG signals into images based on GASF, followed by the extraction of features utilizing SIFT and ORB techniques, and ultimately, the selection of relevant features. A state-of-the-art machine learning classifier is employed to classify GASF images into two categories: normal EEG patterns and focal EEG patterns. Bern-Barcelona EEG recordings were used to test the proposed method.

Results

This method classifies EEG signals with 96% accuracy using SIFT features and 94% using ORB features. The Random Forest (RF) classifier surpasses state-of-the-art approaches in precision, recall, F1-score, specificity, and Area Under Curve (AUC). The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve shows that Random Forest outperforms Support Vector Machine (SVM) and k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN) classifiers.

Significance

The suggested method has many advantages over time-series EEG data analysis and machine learning classifiers used in epilepsy detection studies. A novel image-based preprocessing pipeline using GASF for robust image synthesis and SIFT and ORB for feature extraction is presented here. The study found that the suggested method can accurately discriminate between normal and focal EEG signals, improving patient outcomes through early and accurate epilepsy diagnosis.
Research progress on antidepressant effects and mechanisms of berberine
Authors: Gao Yang , Nie Kexin , Wang Hongzhan , Dong Hui , Tang Yueheng
Published: January 2024

Depression, a global health problem with growing prevalence, brings serious impacts on the daily life of patients. However, the antidepressants currently used in clinical are not perfectly effective, which greatly reduces the compliance of patients. Berberine is a natural quaternary alkaloid which has been shown to have a variety of pharmacological effects, such as hypoglycemic, lipid-regulation, anti-cancer, antibacterial, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant. This review summarizes the evidence of pharmacological applications of berberine in treating depression and elucidates the mechanisms of berberine regulating neurotransmitter levels, promoting the regeneration of hippocampal neurons, improving hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction, anti-oxidative stress, and suppressing inflammatory status in order to provide a reference for further research and clinical application of berberine.
Equity and spatial accessibility of healthcare resources in online health community network
Authors: Gu Hong , Cai Yu-Feng , Sun Kun , Zhao Tian-Fang
Published: January 2024

Introduction: This study investigates the geographical distribution and fractal characteristics of the medical service network in China, using the “Good Doctor website” as a case study.

Methods: Data for this study were extracted from the Good Doctor website Health Community. A two-tiered hierarchical network model was developed to analyze the geographical distribution and fractal characteristics of the medical service network in China.

Results: Results unveil the hierarchical nature of hospital distribution and the interconnectivity among healthcare institutions. Shandong Province as a central node within the national hospital network, and networks of secondary hospitals show significant self-similarity and scale-free properties.

Discussion: The small world and fractal characteristics shed light on the rapid dissemination of medical information and the robustness of the healthcare network. The results offer a novel perspective for understanding and optimizing the distribution of medical resources, and help improve the efficiency of healthcare services supply.
The cycle of solitude and avoidance: a daily life evaluation of the relationship between internet addiction and symptoms of social anxiety
Authors: Hernández Cristóbal , Ferrada Martín , Ciarrochi Joseph , Quevedo Sergio , Garcés José Antonio , Hansen Raimundo , Sahdra Baljinder
Published: January 2024

A consistent association has been observed between internet addiction and symptoms of social anxiety. However, there is a lack of empirical research that delves into potential explanations for this relationship and its directionality, making it difficult to translate findings into development of interventions for social anxiety that account for technology-related behaviors. The present study aimed to evaluate the longitudinal dynamics between internet addiction, symptoms of social anxiety, avoidance of social interactions, and using the internet to cope with loneliness. By means of an ecological momentary assessment study, we evaluated a sample of 122 young adults from Chile using intensive self-report measurements five times a day, for a period of 10 days. Using mixed-effects models, we examined the directionality between internet addiction and symptoms of social anxiety, together with an explanation of their relationship. Results indicate that internet addiction antecedes symptoms of social anxiety; however, the reverse relationship was not observed. Furthermore, instances where individuals avoided social interactions or used the internet to cope with loneliness were predictive of later increases in levels of internet addiction, suggesting a vicious cycle. Significant heterogeneity was observed in these effects, highlighting the need for a more personalized approach when including technology-related behaviors in social anxiety interventions. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.
Feasibility and uptake of a digital mental health intervention for depression among Lebanese and Syrian displaced people in Lebanon: a qualitative study
Authors: Abi Ramia Jinane , Abi Hana Racha , Noun Philip , Cuijpers Pim , Carswell Kenneth , van't Hof Edith , Heim Eva , Zoghbi Edwina , Sijbrandij Marit , El Chammay Rabih
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Digital interventions are increasingly regarded as a potential solution for the inaccessibility of mental health treatment across low-and-middle-income settings, especially for common mental disorders. Step-by-Step (SbS) is a digital, guided self-help intervention for depression found effective in two Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) in Lebanon. For research implementation and further scale-up, this paper reports the results of a qualitative evaluation of SbS among the Lebanese and others and displaced Syrians in Lebanon.

Methods

Thirty-four Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were executed with participants of the RCTs, SbS staff members, and external stakeholders. Questions garnered feedback about the feasibility, acceptability, enabling factors, and barriers to adhering to the research, implementation, and the SbS intervention. A thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo, and key themes, topics, and recommendations, on research methods and the intervention itself, were generated and reported.

Results

Results showed a high level of acceptability of SbS among Lebanese and Syrians and identified sub-groups for whom acceptance or use might be lower, such as older adults and people with limited access to the internet or smartphones. Furthermore, interviews identified the main enabling factors and barriers to adherence related to the research design, content, and delivery approach. Barriers related to feasibility included lengthy assessments as part of the RCTs, and mistrust related to delays in study compensations. Other common challenges were forgetting login credentials, poor internet connection, being busy and competing needs. Enabling factors and best practices included motivating participants to use the intervention through the weekly support provided by helpers, setting an oral contract for commitment, and dividing the compensations into several installments as part of the RCTs. Recommendations regarding sustainability were given.

Discussion

The findings show that overall, SbS is feasible, acceptable, and much needed in Lebanon among the Lebanese and Syrians. This assessment identifies reasons for low adherence to the research and the intervention and presents improvement solutions. Recommendations generated in this paper inform the upscale of SbS and the planning, design, and implementation of future digital interventions in research and service provision settings in the mental health field.
Add-on effects of oral tocopherol supplementation to surgical varicocelectomy on the outcome of assisted reproductive technology: a single-center pilot study report
Authors: Takeshima Teppei , Mihara Takahiro , Tomita Makoto , Kuroda Shinnosuke , Yumura Yasushi , Ueno Hiroe , Yamamoto Mizuki , Murase Mariko
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Varicocelectomy is well known to improve the pregnancy outcome of patients with clinical varicoceles in assisted reproductive technologies as well as spontaneous conception. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the additional effects of oral antioxidant therapy after varicocelectomy on the pregnancy outcome in the assisted reproductive technology setting.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study. The subjects were couples among whom the male partner had undergone varicocelectomy and was scheduled for subsequent assisted reproductive technology. Pregnancy outcomes were followed retrospectively in 62 couples with male partners who received tocopherol (antioxidant group) and 37 couples who did not (control group). The tocopherol and control groups were assigned dependent on the decision of the physician in charge and the patient's request. The clinical pregnancy rates per couple and embryo transfer, time to pregnancy, and the number of cycles during transfer to pregnancy were evaluated.

Results

No significant differences were observed in the pregnancy rate per couple (antioxidant group 70.9% vs. control group 64.9%, P = 0.55) and per embryo transfer (50.4% vs. 39.6%, P = 0.22). Regarding the time to event analyzed by adjusted restricted mean survival time, the mean time to pregnancy was significantly shorter in the antioxidant (tocopherol) group (14.2 vs. 17.4 months, P = 0.025). No significant difference was observed in the embryo transfer cycle to pregnancy (mean embryo transfer cycles: 2.6 vs. 3.0, P = 0.238).

Conclusions

Additional oral tocopherol nicotinate as antioxidant therapy after varicocelectomy was shown to shorten the time to pregnancy. It is recommended that add-on effects be tested in more well-designed randomized controlled trials to examine whether it improves assisted reproductive outcomes.
Blowing in the Wind: Microbial Transport in the Atmosphere
Authors: Rahav Eyal , Herut Barak , Paytan Adina
Published: January 2024

Airborne microbes are microorganisms that are suspended in the air. Airborne microbes include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. Some airborne microbes can cause infectious diseases or other health problems, while others may not be harmful. Therefore, the role of airborne microbes in shaping atmospheric, ocean, and land-based ecosystems is extremely important. Scientists found that airborne microbes can be transported by wind/air for thousands of kilometers away from their place of origin. This atmospheric transport is fast and spreads microbial cells across geographic barriers. It only takes days for them to cross continents and oceans, for example. In this article, we will explain which microbes are found in the air, where they come from, and the atmospheric factors that affect them.
Space weather with an arc’s ∼2 h trip across the nightside polar cap
Authors: Lyons Larry R. , Nishimura Yukitoshi , Liu Jiang , Yadav Sneha , Zou Ying , Bristow William A. , Donovan Eric , Nishitani Nozomu
Published: January 2024

Flow channels can extend across the polar cap from the dayside to the nightside auroral oval, where they lead to localized reconnection and auroral oval disturbances. Such flow channels can persist within the polar cap >1½ hours, can move azimuthally with direction controlled by IMF By, and may affect time and location of auroral oval disturbances. We have followed a polar cap arc as it moved duskward from Canada to Alaska for ∼2 h while connected to the oval. Two-dimensional ionospheric flows show an adjacent flow channel that moved westward with the arc and was a distinct feature of polar cap convection that locally impinged upon the outer boundary of the auroral oval. The flow channel’s interaction with the oval appears to have triggered two separate substorms during its trip across western Canada and Alaska, controlling the onset location and contributing to subsequent development of substorm activity within the oval. The first substorm (over Canada) occurred during approximately equatorward polar cap flow, whereas the second substorm (over Alaska) occurred as the polar cap arc and flow channel bent strongly azimuthally and appeared to “lay down” along the poleward boundary. The oval became unusually thin, leading to near contact between the polar cap arc and the brightening onset auroral arc within the oval. These observations illustrate the crucial role of polar cap flow channels in the time, location, and duration of space weather activity, and the importance of the duration and azimuthal motion of flow channels within the nightside polar cap.