bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerobiological and clinical study in the semidesertic area of the Southeastern of Spain
Authors: Zapata Juan José , Martín-López Laura , Bosch Laura , del Campo Jorge , Carnés Jerónimo
Published: March 2024

Aerobiological studies constitute a relevant tool to predict the most influential parameters over the pollen seasons with significant clinical relevance in the allergic populations. The aim of this study was to describe the aerobiological behaviour of the most relevant allergenic sources in the semi-arid area of southeast of Spain (Almería) and to investigate the correlation with meteorological factors and clinical symptoms of allergic patients. Daily pollen count and meteorological parameters of Almería, Spain, were compiled for ten years. The clinical symptoms of 248 allergic patients were also recorded. Descriptive statistics and correlations between variables were assessed. Multivariate analyses were performed to predict the influence of meteorological factors on pollen concentration and the risk of suffer respiratory symptoms. Eight pollen families were identified as the most relevant allergenic sources. Temperature correlated with main pollen season evolution of all taxa whereas rainfall and relative humidity only correlated in Oleaceae, Pinaceae, Amaranthaceae, Asteraceae and Urticaceae. Rainfall and relative humidity were the most influential predictors of pollen concentration, except in Amaranthaceaea and Poaceae families, while temperature only influenced on Cupressaceae and Urticaceae pollen concentrations. A significant positive influence was observed between maximum temperature and rainfall with the appearance of allergic symptoms in patients sensitized to grasses, Parietaria sp. and Olea sp. This study, highlight the main aerobiological features in the region and establish a suitable tool for clinical follow-up and management of allergic patients. Further studies are needed to establish an accurate measurement aimed to control and prevent pollinosis in sensitized patients.
Comparative study of the chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity of the essential oils extracted from Lavandula abrialis and Lavandula stoechas: in vitro and in silico analysis
Authors: Radi Mohamed , Eddardar Zaina , Drioiche Aziz , Remok Firdaous , Hosen Md. Eram , Zibouh Khalid , Ed-Damsyry Brahim , Bouatkiout Amale , Amine Sanae , Touijer Hanane , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , Bourhia Mohammed , Ibenmoussa Samir , Zair Touriya
Published: March 2024

This work aims to add value to the Lavandula genus by identifying the chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of two species lavender from Oulmès in Morocco; Lavandula abrialis and Lavandula stoechas. The uniqueness lies in the integrated approach that combines in vitro and in silico analyses to assess the biological properties of the essential oils (EO). The objective of this study is to enhance the significance of the Lavandula genus by analyzing the chemical composition, antioxidant properties, and antimicrobial effects of two lavender species found in Oulmès, Morocco: Lavandula abrialis and Lavandula stoechas. The distinctiveness is in the comprehensive methodology that merges in vitro and in silico investigations to evaluate the biological characteristics of the essential oils (EO). The extraction of essential oils (EO) by hydrodistillation from the aerial parts of Lavandula abrialis gave a high yield of essential oils (2.9%) compared to Lavandula stoechas (2.3%). A GC-MS analysis of the chemical composition revealed 56 chemical compounds, with some variation in the predominant components, representing between 99.98% and 100% of the EOs of the studied lavenders. Their antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH test. This method revealed that L. stoechas EO has a higher percentage of free radical inhibition than L. abrialis. The IC50 values demonstrate that the antioxidant activity of ascorbic acid is higher (1.62 g/mL) than the EOs of tested plants. Noteworthy, the EO of L. stoechas is more potent (12.94 g/mL) than that of Lavandula tibialis (34.71 g/mL). Regrading, the antibacterial tests, the EO of L. abrialis was particularly active against Staphylococcus aureus BLACT, which is inhibited at a concentration of 6.25 g/mL, while L. stoechas EO has a strong effect on Escherichia coli, with a MIC of 1.56 g/mL. Concerning the antifungal activity of the EOs, yeasts showed sensitivity toward EOs extracted from both L. tibialis and L. stoechas. Moreover, an in silico study was conducted targeting sarA protein of S. aureus (PDB ID: 2fnp) and NADPH oxidase from Lavandula sanfranciscensis (PDB: 2CDU) and results showed that Ishwarone and Selina-3,7 (11)-diene exhibited highest binding energy with −9.8 and −10.8 kcal/mol respectively. Therefore, these two compounds could be used as an antibacterial and antioxidant agents however more experimental and molecular study should be required.
Treatment for Stanford type B aortic dissection with insufficient anchoring region using castor integrated branched aortic stent graft
Authors: Chen Weiqing , Liu Dabing , Chen Tao , Liu Jian , Guo Yi , Ye Bo
Published: March 2024

Background

To investigate the clinical efficacy of Castor integrated branched aortic stent graft for the treatment of Stanford type B aortic dissection with insufficient anchoring area.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of clinical data of 26 patients with Stanford type B aortic dissection with insufficient anchoring region (<15 mm) treated by Castor branched aortic stent graft from September 2018 to June 2022 at Ganzhou People's Hospital, including 23 acute cases and 3 chronic cases.

Results

Surgical procedures were successfully performed in all 26 patients, and during the perioperative period no complications occurred, such as cerebrovascular accident, stenosis or occlusion of left subclavian artery, progression of reverse avulsion of aortic dissection, and paraplegia. During the operation 2 patients had a small amount of type I endoleak, which disappeared during the postoperative follow-up. The other patients had good postoperative follow-up results. Review of the aortic CTA indicated good stent morphology with patency of the left subclavian artery.

Conclusions

The Castor integrated branched aortic stent graft expanded the indications for endoluminal treatment for Stanford type B aortic dissection, which can avoid open surgery and has good clinical outcomes.
A photographic method to identify reservoir geohazards induced by rock mass deterioration of hydro-fluctuation belt
Authors: Dai Zhenwei , Zhang Yanjun , Zhang Chenyang , Fu Xiaolin , Zhang Peng , Ye Runqing
Published: March 2024

Potential geohazards triggered by the rock mass deterioration (RMD) of the hydro-fluctuation belt (HFB) in the Three Gorges Reservoir area (TGRA) severely threaten the lives and property of people, it is necessary and urgent to timely identify this kind of potential geohazard. Aiming at this issue, several typical evolution modes of potential RMD-induced geohazards were generalized, and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photographic method integrating the orthophotography, three-dimensional multi-angle oblique photography and high-precision digital elevation model (DEM) was proposed to early recognize the newly formed potential RMD-induced geohazards. By resolving the problem of poor precision in the orthophotographic images of high steep bank slopes, the proposed method improved the recognition reliability of potential reservoir geohazards in the HFBs. Taking the bank slopes from Zigui County to Badong County as the study area, 116 new potential RMD-induced geohazard sites were identified by the presented approach, including 64 and 52 sites on the left and right bank, respectively. Through field verifications, 17 and 19 sites on the left and right bank were found to be consistent with existing hazards, indicating the effectiveness of the proposed approach in avoiding the false and missing recognitions of potential RMD-induced reservoir geohazards at current levels of knowledge and technology. The study can provide a valuable reference for the early identification of RMD-induced geohazards in reservoir areas.
Association of vitamin D deficiency and subclinical diabetic peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Sun Xiaoyang , Yang Xinyu , Zhu Xiaopeng , Ma Yu , Li Xu , Zhang Yuying , Liu Qiling , Fan Chenmin , Zhang Miao , Xu Binger , Xu Yanlan , Gao Xin , Dong Jihong , Xia Mingfeng , Bian Hua
Published: March 2024

Background

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) contributes to disability and imposes heavy burdens, while subclinical DPN is lack of attention so far. We aimed to investigate the relationship between vitamin D and distinct subtypes of subclinical DPN in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 3629 T2DM inpatients who undertook nerve conduction study to detect subclinical DPN in Zhongshan Hospital between March 2012 and December 2019. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level < 50 nmol/L.

Results

1620 (44.6%) patients had subclinical DPN and they were further divided into subgroups: distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) (n=685), mononeuropathy (n=679) and radiculopathy (n=256). Compared with non-DPN, DPN group had significantly lower level of 25(OH)D (P < 0.05). In DPN subtypes, only DSPN patients had significantly lower levels of 25(OH)D (36.18 ± 19.47 vs. 41.03 ± 18.47 nmol/L, P < 0.001) and higher proportion of vitamin D deficiency (78.54% vs. 72.18%, P < 0.001) than non-DPN. Vitamin D deficiency was associated with the increased prevalence of subclinical DPN [odds ratio (OR) 1.276, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.086-1.501, P = 0.003] and DSPN [OR 1. 646, 95% CI 1.31-2.078, P < 0.001], independent of sex, age, weight, blood pressure, glycosylated hemoglobin, T2DM duration, calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, lipids and renal function. The association between vitamin D deficiency and mononeuropathy or radiculopathy was not statistically significant. A negative linear association was observed between 25(OH)D and subclinical DSPN. Vitamin D deficiency maintained its significant association with subclinical DSPN in all age groups.

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency was independently associated with subclinical DSPN, rather than other DPN subtypes.
Low-temperature hydrogen production and consumption in partially-hydrated peridotites in Oman: implications for stimulated geological hydrogen production
Authors: Templeton Alexis S. , Ellison Eric T. , Kelemen Peter B. , Leong James , Boyd Eric S. , Colman Daniel R. , Matter Juerg M.
Published: March 2024

The Samail Ophiolite in Oman, the largest exposed body of ultramafic rocks at the Earth’s surface, produces a continuous flux of hydrogen through low-temperature water/rock reactions. In turn, the scale of the subsurface microbial biosphere is sufficient to consume much of this hydrogen, except where H2 is delivered to surface seeps via faults. By integrating data from recent investigations into the alteration history of the peridotites, groundwater dynamics, and the serpentinite-hosted microbial communities, we identify feasible subsurface conditions for a pilot demonstration of stimulated geological hydrogen production. A simple technoeconomic analysis shows that the stimulation methods to be used must increase the rate of net hydrogen production at least 10,000-fold compared to the estimated natural rate to economically produce hydrogen from engineered water/rock reactions in the peridotite formations. It may be possible to meet this challenge within the upper 1–2 km, given the projected availability of reactive Fe(II)-bearing phases and the lower drilling costs associated with shallower operations. Achieving ≥10,000-fold increases in the H2 production rate will require a combination of stimuli. It will likely be necessary to increase the density of fracturing in the reaction volume by at least two orders of magnitude. Then, the H2-production rates must also be increased by another two orders of magnitude by increasing the water/rock ratio and modifying the chemistry of the injected fluids to optimize formation of Fe(III)-bearing secondary phases. These fluid modifications must be designed to simultaneously minimize microbial consumption of H2 within the stimulation volume. In contrast, preserving the high potentials for biological H2 consumption in the shallow groundwaters replete with oxidants such as nitrate, sulfate and dissolved inorganic carbon will reduce the potential for any inadvertent leaks of hydrogen to the atmosphere, where it acts as an indirect greenhouse gas.
Advances in the mechanism of inflammasomes activation in herpes virus infection
Authors: Chen Hourui , Jian Zhijie , Xu Tong , Xu Lei , Deng Lishuang , Shao Lina , Zhang Leyi , He Li , Li Youyou , Zhu Ling
Published: March 2024

Herpesviruses, prevalent DNA viruses with a double-stranded structure, establish enduring infections and play a part in various diseases. Despite their deployment of multiple tactics to evade the immune system, both localized and systemic inflammatory responses are triggered by the innate immune system’s recognition of them. Recent progress has offered more profound understandings of the mechanisms behind the activation of the innate immune system by herpesviruses, specifically through inflammatory signaling. This process encompasses the initiation of an intracellular nucleoprotein complex, the inflammasome associated with inflammation.Following activation, proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18 are released by the inflammasome, concurrently instigating a programmed pathway for cell death. Despite the structural resemblances between herpesviruses, the distinctive methods of inflammatory activation and the ensuing outcomes in diseases linked to the virus exhibit variations.The objective of this review is to emphasize both the similarities and differences in the mechanisms of inflammatory activation among herpesviruses, elucidating their significance in diseases resulting from these viral infections.Additionally, it identifies areas requiring further research to comprehensively grasp the impact of this crucial innate immune signaling pathway on the pathogenesis of these prevalent viruses.
Exploring the interplay of semantic knowledge in bilingual children: heritage language and second language
Authors: Kan Pui Fong , Yim Dongsun , Brennan Christine
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the semantic development of heritage bilingual preschool children aged 3 to 5 who acquire Cantonese as their heritage language (HL) at home and English as their community language (L2) in school settings. The research examines how bilingual children organize and access their vocabulary in two distinct languages and how their heritage language influences semantic development in L2. We examined their performance in Word Association Identification Task (WAID) and Word Association Task (WAT) in both languages. Results showed that they perform similarly in WAID in both languages, with higher accuracy in semantically unrelated conditions. The WAT results showed that children had more syntagmatic responses in Cantonese than in English, but had similar paradigmatic responses in both languages. Regression analysis revealed that paradigmatic responses in Cantonese predicted children's English paradigmatic responses. Their English paradigmatic responses were also associated with WAID performance in English. This study contributes to understanding heritage bilingual children's semantic development, with implications for education and language support.
Diagnostic yield of FAP-guided positron emission tomography in thyroid cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Rizzo Alessio , Albano Domenico , Dondi Francesco , Cioffi Martina , Muoio Barbara , Annunziata Salvatore , Racca Manuela , Bertagna Francesco , Piccardo Arnoldo , Treglia Giorgio
Published: March 2024

Background

Several recent studies have proposed the possible application of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) administering radiolabelled fibroblast-activation protein (FAP) inhibitors for various forms of thyroid cancer (TC), including differentiated TC (DTC), and medullary TC (MTC).

Methods

The authors conducted an extensive literature search of original studies examining the effectiveness of FAP-guided PET/CT in patients with TC. The papers included were original publications exploring the use of FAP-targeted molecular imaging in restaging metastatic DTC and MTC patients.

Results

A total of 6 studies concerning the diagnostic yield of FAP-targeted PET/CT in TC (274 patients, of which 247 DTC and 27 MTC) were included in this systematic review. The included articles reported high values of FAP-targeted PET/CT detection rates in TC, ranging from 81 to 100% in different anatomical sites and overall superior to the comparative imaging method.

Conclusion

Although there are promising results, the existing literature on the diagnostic accuracy of FAP-guided PET in this context is still quite limited. To thoroughly evaluate its potential significance in TC patients, it is needed to conduct prospective randomized multicentric trials.
Generation of contractile forces by three-dimensional bundled axonal tracts in micro-tissue engineered neural networks
Authors: Chouhan Dimple , Gordián Vélez Wisberty J. , Struzyna Laura A. , Adewole Dayo O. , Cullen Erin R. , Burrell Justin C. , O’Donnell John C. , Cullen D. Kacy
Published: March 2024

Axonal extension and retraction are ongoing processes that occur throughout all developmental stages of an organism. The ability of axons to produce mechanical forces internally and respond to externally generated forces is crucial for nervous system development, maintenance, and plasticity. Such axonal mechanobiological phenomena have typically been evaluated in vitro at a single-cell level, but these mechanisms have not been studied when axons are present in a bundled three-dimensional (3D) form like in native tissue. In an attempt to emulate native cortico-cortical interactions under in vitro conditions, we present our approach to utilize previously described micro-tissue engineered neural networks (micro-TENNs). Here, micro-TENNs were comprised of discrete populations of rat cortical neurons that were spanned by 3D bundled axonal tracts and physically integrated with each other. We found that these bundled axonal tracts inherently exhibited an ability to generate contractile forces as the microtissue matured. We therefore utilized this micro-TENN testbed to characterize the intrinsic contractile forces generated by the integrated axonal tracts in the absence of any external force. We found that contractile forces generated by bundled axons were dependent on microtubule stability. Moreover, these intra-axonal contractile forces could simultaneously generate tensile forces to induce so-called axonal “stretch-growth” in different axonal tracts within the same microtissue. The culmination of axonal contraction generally occurred with the fusion of both the neuronal somatic regions along the axonal tracts, therefore perhaps showing the innate tendency of cortical neurons to minimize their wiring distance, a phenomenon also perceived during brain morphogenesis. In future applications, this testbed may be used to investigate mechanisms of neuroanatomical development and those underlying certain neurodevelopmental disorders.
Case report: EGFR fusion mutation combined with EGFR amplification responds to EGFR-TKI therapy
Authors: Wang Zhulin , Huang Chunyao , Fan Wenbo , Sun Shaowu , Li Kaiyuan , Liu Xu , Pu Jiangtao , Zhang Guoqing , Li Xiangnan
Published: March 2024

Given their good antitumor effects, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are standard first-line therapy for EGFR-sensitive mutations, including exon 19 deletions and exon 21 L858R mutations. EGFR fusion mutations and EGFR amplification are very rare in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We describe 2 patients with NSCLC harboring EGFR fusion mutations (EGFR-MACF1 and EGFR-GNAT3) combined with EGFR amplification. Both patients received EGFR-TKI treatment, and 1 of them showed an antitumor response.
Association between prolactin increasing antipsychotic use and the risk of breast cancer: a retrospective observational cohort study in a United States Medicaid population
Authors: Kern David M. , Shoaibi Azza , Shearer David , Richarz Ute , Killion Leslie , Knight R. Karl
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Results of retrospective studies examining the relationship between prolactin increasing antipsychotics and incident breast cancer have been inconsistent. This study assessed the association between use of high prolactin increasing antipsychotics (HPD) and the incidence of breast cancer using best practices in pharmacoepidemiology.

Methods

Using administrative claims data from the MarketScan Medicaid database, schizophrenia patients initiating antipsychotics were identified. Those initiating HPD were compared with new users of non/low prolactin increasing drugs (NPD). Two definitions of breast cancer, two at-risk periods, and two large-scale propensity score (PS) adjustment methods were used in separate analyses. PS models included all previously diagnosed conditions, medication use, demographics, and other available medical history. Negative control outcomes were used for empirical calibration.

Results

Five analysis variants passed all diagnostics for sufficient statistical power and balance across all covariates. Four of the five variants used an intent-to-treat (ITT) approach. Between 4,256 and 6,341 patients were included in each group for the ITT analyses, and patients contributed approximately four years of follow-up time on average. There was no statistically significant association between exposure to HPD and risk of incident breast cancer in any analysis, and hazard ratios remained close to 1.0, ranging from 0.96 (95% confidence interval 0.62 - 1.48) to 1.28 (0.40 - 4.07).

Discussion

Using multiple PS methods, outcome definitions and at-risk periods provided robust and consistent results which found no evidence of an association between use of HPD and risk of breast cancer.
Mechanisms of angiogenesis in tumour
Authors: Zhang Run , Yao Yutong , Gao Hanwei , Hu Xin
Published: March 2024

Angiogenesis is essential for tumour growth and metastasis. Antiangiogenic factor-targeting drugs have been approved as first line agents in a variety of oncology treatments. Clinical drugs frequently target the VEGF signalling pathway during sprouting angiogenesis. Accumulating evidence suggests that tumours can evade antiangiogenic therapy through other angiogenesis mechanisms in addition to the vascular sprouting mechanism involving endothelial cells. These mechanisms include (1) sprouting angiogenesis, (2) vasculogenic mimicry, (3) vessel intussusception, (4) vascular co-option, (5) cancer stem cell-derived angiogenesis, and (6) bone marrow-derived angiogenesis. Other non-sprouting angiogenic mechanisms are not entirely dependent on the VEGF signalling pathway. In clinical practice, the conversion of vascular mechanisms is closely related to the enhancement of tumour drug resistance, which often leads to clinical treatment failure. This article summarizes recent studies on six processes of tumour angiogenesis and provides suggestions for developing more effective techniques to improve the efficacy of antiangiogenic treatment.
Clown care in the clinical nursing of children: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Wang Lina , Zhu Jing , Chen Ting
Published: March 2024

Background

Children treated in hospitals often experience high levels of anxiety and pain. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to analyze the effect of clown care in clinical nursing on children and to provide ideas for improving the clinical nursing care provided to children.

Methods

Two authors searched PubMed, Embase, Clinical trials, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Weipu, and Wanfang databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to clown care for children until 15 September 2023. The quality assessment of the included RCTs and the data extraction were performed by two researchers, and meta-analysis was carried out using RevMan5.4.

Results

A total of 15 RCTs involving 2,252 children were finally included in this meta-analysis. The findings from this meta-analysis revealed that clown care was beneficial in reducing the pain [SMD = −0.96, 95% CI (−1.76, 0.16)], anxiety [SMD = −0.81, 95% CI (−1.16, −0.46)], and crying time [SMD = −1.09, 95% CI (−1.74, −0.44)] of children and the anxiety level of caregivers [SMD = −0.99, 95% CI (−1.95, −0.03)] (all P’s < 0.05). No significant publication biases were detected in the synthesized outcomes (all P’s > 0.05).

Conclusions

Clown care is helpful in reducing the pain, anxiety, and crying time of children and the anxiety level of caregivers. However, additional high-quality studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to further analyze the role of clown care in clinical practice.
Cardiac biomarkers and left ventricular systolic function in former very preterm infants and term controls at preschool age
Authors: Höck Michaela , Posod Anna , Odri Komazec Irena , Griesmaier Elke , Ralser Elisabeth , Pupp-Peglow Ulrike , Kiechl-Kohlendorfer Ursula
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Due to improvements in perinatal care, survival rates of preterm infants have improved during the last decades. However, these infants remain at risk of developing cardiovascular sequelae later in life. This study aimed to investigate the cardiac biomarkers and left ventricular systolic function in former preterm infants in comparison with term controls at preschool age.

Methods

The study included children aged 5–7 years old born below 32 weeks of gestational age. The control group consisted of same-age children born at term. Basic data of study participants were collected using questionnaires and follow-up databases. During the study visit, we recorded anthropometric data and blood pressure readings, determined high-sensitive cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) concentrations, and calculated fractional shortening (FS) and left ventricular mass (LVM).

Results

Term-born (n = 25; median gestational age, 40.1 weeks) compared with preterm-born infants (n = 80; median gestational age 29.6 weeks) showed no significant differences in the median concentration of hs-cTnT [median, 3.5 (IQR 3.5; 3.5) vs. 3.5 (3.5; 3.5) ng/L, p = 0.328] and the median concentration of NT-pro-BNP [median, 91.0 (IQR 40.8; 150.3) vs. 87.5 (50.1; 189.5) ng/L, p = 0.087]. FS and LVM/LVMI were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusion

At preschool age, we observed no significant differences in cardiac biomarkers and left ventricular systolic function in preterm infants. Further studies are warranted to explore the potential of cardiac biomarkers as a prognostic tool for subclinical cardiac alterations after preterm birth.
Mechanisms of Bushenyiqi decoction in the treatment of asthma: an investigation based on network pharmacology with experimental validation
Authors: Qin Ziwen , Chen Yujuan , Liu Na , Wang Yonggang , Su Lili , Liang Bin , Huang Chuanjun
Published: March 2024

Background and purpose: The Bushenyiqi decoction (BYD), a contemporary prescription of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been observed to significantly ameliorate asthma symptoms in patients based on clinical observations. Although multi-component and multi-target characteristics are important attributes of BYD treatment, its pharmacological effect on asthma and the underlying mechanism of action remain unclear.

Method: Network pharmacology: the asthma-related genes were retrieved from the GeneCards and OMIM database. The active constituents of BYD and their corresponding target genes were collected from the TCMSP database. The underlying pathways associated with overlapping targets between BYD and asthma were identified through GO (Gene Ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) enrichment analysis. Experimental validation: pulmonary function tests, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Hematoxylin and eosin (HE), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and Masson’s trichrome stainings were conducted to validate the efficacy of BYD in ameliorating airway inflammation in allergic asthma mice. Western blot (WB) and molecular docking were performed to confirm the involvement of the underlying pathway in BYD treatment of asthma.

Results: The results of animal experiments demonstrated that BYD may improve airway responsiveness and suppress airway inflammation in allergic asthma mice. The network pharmacological analysis revealed the involvement of 11 potentially key active components, 9 potential key targets, and the phosphatidylinositol3 kinase-RAC-α serine/threonine-protein kinase (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway in the mechanism of action of BYD for asthma treatment. Our findings have confirmed that BYD effectively alleviated airway inflammation by targeting interleukin 6 (IL-6), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1A), with quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin performing as the pivotal active constituents. BYD may potentially reduce inflammatory cell infiltration in lung tissues by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the integration of network pharmacology and biological experiments has demonstrated that key constituents of BYD, such as quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin, exhibit targeted effects on IL-6, EGFR, and HIF1A in combating asthma-related inflammation through inhibition of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The findings of this investigation provide evidence supporting the effectiveness of TCM’s “bushenyiqi” therapy in asthma management, as corroborated by contemporary medical technology.
Monte Carlo simulation study of an in vivo four-dimensional tracking system with a diverging collimator for monitoring radiation source (Ir-192) location during brachytherapy: proof of concept and feasibility
Authors: Oh Geon , Lee Jeongshim , Kim Hunjung , Kim Woochul , Kang Sangwon , Chung Jinbeom , Jeong Seonghoon , Lee Hakjae , Yoon Myonggeun , Lee Boram
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The aim of this study was to demonstrate the potential of an in vivo four-dimensional (4D) tracking system to accurately localize the radiation source, Iridium-192 (Ir-192) in high-dose rate brachytherapy.

Methods: To achieve time-dependent 3D positioning of the Ir-192 source, we devised a 4D tracking system employing multiple compact detectors. During the system’s design phase, we conducted comprehensive optimization and analytical evaluations of the diverging collimator employed for detection purposes. Subsequently, we executed 3D reconstruction and positioning procedures based on the 2D images obtained by six detectors, each equipped with an optimized diverging collimator. All simulations for designing and evaluating the 4D tracking system were performed using the open-source GATE (v9.1) Monte Carlo platform based on the GEANT4 (v10.7) toolkit. In addition, to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed 4D tracking system, we conducted simulations and 3D positioning using a solid phantom and patient data. Finally, the error between the reconstructed position coordinates determined by the tracking system and the original coordinates of the Ir-192 radiation source was analyzed.

Results: The parameters for the optimized diverging collimator were a septal thickness of 0.3 mm and a collimator height of 30 mm. A tracking system comprising 6 compact detectors was designed and implemented utilizing this collimator. Analysis of the accuracy of the proposed Ir-192 source tracking system found that the average of the absolute values of the error between the 3D reconstructed and original positions for the simulation with the solid phantom were 0.440 mm for the x coordinate, 0.423 mm for the y coordinate, and 0.764 mm for the z coordinate, and the average Euclidean distance was 1.146 mm. Finally, in a simulation based on data from a patient who underwent brachytherapy, the average Euclidean distance between the original and reconstructed source position was 0.586 mm.

Discussion: These results indicated that the newly designed in vivo 4D tracking system for monitoring the Ir-192 source during brachytherapy could determine the 3D position of the radiation source in real time during treatment. We conclude that the proposed positioning system has the potential to make brachytherapy more accurate and reliable.
QTL mapping for plant height and ear height using bi-parental immortalized heterozygous populations in maize
Authors: Yang Haoxiang , Zhang Ziran , Zhang Ning , Li Ting , Wang Junjie , Zhang Qing , Xue Jiquan , Zhu Wanchao , Xu Shutu
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Plant height (PH) and ear height (EH) are key plant architectural traits in maize, which will affect the photosynthetic efficiency, high plant density tolerance, suitability for mechanical harvesting

Methods

QTL mapping were conducted for PH and EH using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population and two corresponding immortalized backcross (IB) populations obtained from crosses between the RIL population and the two parental lines.

Results

A total of 17 and 15 QTL were detected in the RIL and IB populations, respectively. Two QTL, qPH1-1 (qEH1-1) and qPH1-2 (qEH1-4) in the RIL, were simultaneously identified for PH and EH. Combing reported genome-wide association and cloned PH-related genes, co-expression network analyses were constructed, then five candidate genes with high confidence in major QTL were identified including Zm00001d011117 and Zm00001d011108, whose homologs have been confirmed to play a role in determining PH in maize and soybean.

Discussion

QTL mapping used a immortalized backcross population is a new strategy. These identified genes in this study can provide new insights for improving the plant architecture in maize.
Diagnosing arsenic-mediated biochemical responses in rice cultivars using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Juárez Isaac D. , Dou Tianyi , Biswas Sudip , Septiningsih Endang M. , Kurouski Dmitry
Published: March 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa) is the primary crop for nearly half of the world’s population. Groundwater in many rice-growing parts of the world often has elevated levels of arsenite and arsenate. At the same time, rice can accumulate up to 20 times more arsenic compared to other staple crops. This places an enormous amount of people at risk of chronic arsenic poisoning. In this study, we investigated whether Raman spectroscopy (RS) could be used to diagnose arsenic toxicity in rice based on biochemical changes that were induced by arsenic accumulation. We modeled arsenite and arsenate stresses in four different rice cultivars grown in hydroponics over a nine-day window. Our results demonstrate that Raman spectra acquired from rice leaves, coupled with partial least squares-discriminant analysis, enabled accurate detection and identification of arsenic stress with approximately 89% accuracy. We also performed high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-analysis of rice leaves to identify the key molecular analytes sensed by RS in confirming arsenic poisoning. We found that RS primarily detected a decrease in the concentration of lutein and an increase in the concentration of vanillic and ferulic acids due to the accumulation of arsenite and arsenate in rice. This showed that these molecules are detectable indicators of biochemical response to arsenic accumulation. Finally, a cross-correlation of RS with HPLC and ICP-MS demonstrated RS’s potential for a label-free, non-invasive, and non-destructive quantification of arsenic accumulation in rice.
Tracking collective emotions in 16 countries during COVID-19: a novel methodology for identifying major emotional events using Twitter
Authors: Chauhan Apurv , Belhekar Vivek , Sehgal Surbhi , Singh Himanshu , Prakash Jay
Published: March 2024

Using messages posted on Twitter, this study develops a new approach to estimating collective emotions (CEs) within countries. It applies time series methodology to develop and demonstrate a novel application of CEs to identify emotional events that are significant at the societal level. The study analyzes over 200 million words from over 10 million Twitter messages posted in 16 countries during the first 120 days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Daily levels of collective anxiety and positive emotions were estimated using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count's (LIWC) psychologically validated lexicon. The time series estimates of the two collective emotions were analyzed for structural breaks, which mark a significant change in a series due to an external shock. External shocks to collective emotions come from events that are of shared emotional relevance, and this study develops a new approach to identifying them. In the COVID-19 Twitter posts used in the study, analysis of structural breaks showed that in all 16 countries, a reduction in collective anxiety and an increase in positive emotions followed the WHO's declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic. Announcements of economic support packages and social restrictions also had similar impacts in some countries. This indicates that the reduction of uncertainty around the evolving COVID-19 situation had a positive emotional impact on people in all the countries in the study. The study contributes to the field of CEs and applied research in collective psychological phenomena.
Self-report psychopathy-III facet scores predict sexual crimes, sexual preferences, and sexual deviance index validity more precisely than total scores
Authors: Gabriel Shaina A. , Renaud Patrice
Published: March 2024

Understanding the profiles of sexual offenders, such as the presence of psychopathic traits, is key to preventing future sexual crimes. The self-report psychopathy-III (SRP-III) is a tool used to assess the characteristics of psychopathy, but improvements on its interpretation are required to maximize its precision. The SRP-III can be interpreted by examining the scores on each of the four facets (interpersonal manipulation, callous affect, erratic lifestyle, antisocial behavior), on each of two factors (factor 1, factor 2), or by examining the total score. Here, we investigate the interpretation of the results from the SRP-III using these three approaches of analysis of the data for predicting types of sexual crimes, sexually deviant preferences (measured via PPG), and the validity of the sexual deviance results. Logistic regressions were carried out using either the four facets, two factors, or the total score of the SRP-III. Data were previously obtained from 198 Canadian men who were convicted of, or who admitted to committing, at least one sexual crime, or who reported experiencing sexually deviant fantasies. We also examined the point-biserial correlations between each of the methods of interpreting the SRP-III results and each of the dependent variables. We find that SRP-III facet scores most precisely predict types of sexual crimes, sexually deviant preferences, and sexual deviance index validity, followed by SRP-III factor scores, and lastly SRP-III total scores. Additionally, significant correlations are only found between SRP-III scores and one dependent variable. Potential reasons for this are discussed. Based on these findings, we recommend that future studies consider facet and factor scores in addition to the standard practice of examining total scores.
Development of a multivariate prediction model for antidepressant resistant depression using reward-related predictors
Authors: Liu Xiao , Read Stephen J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Individuals with depression who do not respond to two or more courses of serotonergic antidepressants tend to have greater deficits in reward processing and greater internalizing symptoms, yet there is no validated self-report method to determine the likelihood of treatment resistance based on these symptom dimensions.

Methods

This online case-control study leverages machine learning techniques to identify differences in self-reported anhedonia and internalizing symptom profiles of antidepressant non-responders compared to responders and healthy controls, as an initial proof-of-concept for relating these indicators to medication responsiveness. Random forest classifiers were used to identify a subset from a set of 24 reward predictors that distinguished among serotonergic medication resistant, non-resistant, and non-depressed individuals recruited online (N = 393). Feature selection was implemented to refine model prediction and improve interpretability.

Results

Accuracies for full predictor models ranged from .54 to .71, while feature selected models retained 3-5 predictors and generated accuracies of .42 to .70. Several models performed significantly above chance. Sensitivity for non-responders was greatest after feature selection when compared to only responders, reaching .82 with 3 predictors. The predictors retained from feature selection were then explored using factor analysis at the item level and cluster analysis of the full data to determine empirically driven data structures.

Discussion

Non-responders displayed 3 distinct symptom profiles along internalizing dimensions of anxiety, anhedonia, motivation, and cognitive function. Results should be replicated in a prospective cohort sample for predictive validity; however, this study demonstrates validity for using a limited anhedonia and internalizing self-report instrument for distinguishing between antidepressant resistant and responsive depression profiles.
Gender-specific association between blood cell parameters and hyperuricemia in high-altitude areas
Authors: Cui Danli , Huang Ruoying , Yongzong Dexi , Lin Bo , Huang Xia , Ciren Qimei , Zhou Xuelian
Published: March 2024

Background

Hyperuricemia is a common metabolic disorder linked to various health conditions. Its prevalence varies among populations and genders, and high-altitude environments may contribute to its development. Understanding the connection between blood cell parameters and hyperuricemia in high-altitude areas can shed light on the underlying mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between blood cell parameters and hyperuricemia in high-altitude areas, with a particular focus on gender differences.

Methods

We consecutively enrolled all eligible Tibetan participants aged 18–60 who were undergoing routine medical examinations at the People’s Hospital of Chaya County between January and December 2022. During this period, demographic and laboratory data were collected to investigate the risk factors associated with hyperuricemia.

Results

Among the participants, 46.09% were diagnosed with hyperuricemia. In the male cohort, significant correlations were found between serum uric acid (SUA) levels and red blood cell (RBC) count, creatinine (Cr). Urea, alanine transaminase (ALT), and albumin (ALB). Notably, RBC exhibited the strongest association. Conversely, in the female cohort, elevated SUA levels were associated with factors such as white blood cell (WBC) count. Urea, ALT, and ALB, with WBC demonstrating the most significant association. Further analysis within the female group revealed a compelling relationship between SUA levels and specific white blood cell subtypes, particularly neutrophils (Neu).

Conclusion

This study revealed gender-specific associations between SUA levels and blood cell parameters in high-altitude areas. In males, RBC count may play a role in hyperuricemia, while in females, WBC count appears to be a significant factor. These findings contribute to our understanding of metabolic dynamics in high-altitude regions but require further research for comprehensive mechanistic insights.
Corona virus vaccine hesitancy among higher education students in Adama City, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Dawit , Mengistu Tewodros , Demssie Enku Afework , Mesfin Sinetibeb
Published: March 2024

Background

Vaccination stands as the most efficient approach for managing the continued transmission of infections and preventing the emergence of novel variants. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy poses a significant burden in the fight to achieve herd immunity.

Methods

A cross-sectional study, based on institutional parameters, was conducted among a cohort of 530 higher education students, selected via a simple random sampling method. Study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique from February to March 2022. Structured questionnaire data were gathered and subsequently analyzed using SPSS version 21. The strength of the association between various factors and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was assessed using the odds ratio along with its 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance was deemed to be present at a p-value of < 0.05.

Result

The prevalence of coronavirus vaccine hesitancy was 47.5%. The factors that were found to be significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were residential address (AOR = 2.398, 95% CI: 1.476–3.896); agreeing with leaders and groups that do not support COVID-19 vaccination (AOR = 2.292, 95% CI: 1.418–3.704); coming from a community whose leaders support COVID-19 vaccination for young adults (AOR = 0.598, 95% CI: 0.381–0.940), and believing that COVID-19 vaccines are safe (AOR = 0.343,95% CI: 0.168–0.701).

Conclusion

Approximately five out of 10 students who participated in this study were hesitant to get vaccinated against coronavirus. Incorporating messages and initiatives into local plans to specifically target the factors identified in this study is imperative for substantially increasing the COVID-19 vaccine uptake among students in higher education institutions.
Socio-demographic, agricultural, and personal protective factors in relation to health literacy among farmers from all regions of Thailand
Authors: Sapbamrer Ratana , Sittitoon Nalin , Thongtip Sakesun , Chaipin Eakasit , Sutalangka Chatchada , La-up Aroon , Thirarattanasunthon Phiman , Thammachai Ajchamon , Suwannakul Boonsita , Sangkarit Noppharath , Kitro Amornphat , Panumasvivat Jinjuta , Srisookkum Taweewun
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Farmers are vulnerable to adverse health effects from pesticide exposure due to their health literacy (HL). Therefore, this study aims to investigate HL among farmers in four main regions of Thailand, investigating socio-demographics, agricultural, and personal protective factors to their HL.

Methods

This cross-sectional design study was conducted on 4,035 farmers from January to July 2023. The European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire-47 items were used to measure HL.

Results

Thai farmers had a mean HL score of 34.7 ± 8.7, and the farmers in the North region of Thailand had the highest frequency of limited HL (75.8%). Socio-demographic factors that were associated with HL included gender, region of living, marital status, education level, co-morbidity, and number of family members. Agricultural factors associated with HL included planting status, working hours on farm, spraying pesticides, harvesting crops, pesticide use of >1 type, access information from government officers, access information from posters/brochures, information from online multimedia, and access information from neighbors. Personal protective factors that were associated with HL included wearing a hat, goggles, a rubber apron, and a long-sleeved shirt.

Discussion

Our study recommends that strategies and interventions to enhance the HL of farmers should be focused on the target populations, which include men, widows, or divorced, those with low levels of education, those who have co-morbidities, and those who applied pesticides of more than 1 type and improper personal protective equipment (PPE) use. The primary emphasis needs to be on the North region of Thailand, making that the target area to improve health equity in Thailand. These efforts would enhance the HL of farmers and sustainably improve pesticide safety behavior. Additionally, there is an urgent need for supportive measures aimed at altering on-farm practices and promoting education on alternative pest management strategies, particularly non-chemical crop protection, to ensure sustainable agriculture.