bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the evolution of the spatial structure and driving force of traditional village tourism in South Anhui province
Authors: Zhang Le , Zhou Siyi , Guo Yanlong
Published: October 2024

The development of the tourism industry is a crucial mechanism for enhancing the tertiary sector and promoting local economic growth. This study focuses on traditional villages in the southern Anhui region, analyzing the characteristics of the evolution of their tourism spatial structure and the underlying driving forces. The objective is to provide foundational insights for rural tourism and policy development in the region. Utilizing ArcMap 10.8, we assess the evolution of the tourism spatial structure through the selection of 14 indicators across three dimensions: resource endowment conditions, the regional tourism development environment, and the local economic construction environment, thereby establishing an evaluation system. The Entropy Weight-TOPSIS method is employed for comprehensive data analysis. The findings indicate: 1) The development status of tourism in traditional villages is gradually declining, significantly impacted by the pandemic; 2) Among the six cities in southern Anhui, Huangshan and Wuhu exhibit relatively favorable development conditions, while Ma'anshan and Xuancheng are at moderate levels. Chizhou and Tongling are facing weaker development states; 3) Regional investment, commercial value, and ecological environmental protection capabilities are the three primary driving factors influencing the evolution of tourism spatial structure in southern Anhui, followed by environmental quality and cultural heritage preservation. Therefore, policymakers should place greater emphasis on boosting tourism development in Chizhou and Tongling, enhancing regional investment levels, and improving the commercial value and ecological protection capabilities of tourism spaces. Furthermore, attention must be devoted to environmental quality and cultural heritage preservation within the rural tourism landscape of southern Anhui to ensure sustainable development.
Standardizing CRISPR-Cas13 knockdown technique to investigate the role of cdh2 gene in pituitary development through growth hormone expression and transcription factors
Authors: Ventura Fernandes Bianca Helena , Junqueira Mara S. , MacRae Calum , Silveira de Carvalho Luciani R.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Congenital hypopituitarism (CH) is characterized by the deficiency of pituitary hormones. Among CH patients, 85% lack a molecular diagnosis. Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) identified a homozygous variant (c.865G>A, p.Val289Ile) in the CDH2 gene, responsible for N-Cadherin production, crucial for cell-cell adhesion. Predicted to be likely pathogenic, the variant was found in a patient deficient in GH, TSH, ACTH, and LH/FSH. Its impact on cell adhesion was confirmed in L1 fibroblast cell lines.

Objective

Create a cdh2 knockdown in zebrafish for investigating its role in pituitary development through growth hormone and transcription factors expression.

Methods

Utilized pET28B-RfxCas13d-His plasmid for Cas13 mRNA production via in vitro transcription, guiding Cas13 to cdh2 with three RNAs. Injected the complex into single-cell embryos for analysis up to 96 hpf. Assessed gene expression of cdh2, prop1, pit1, and gh1 using RT-qPCR. Evaluated cdh2 protein expression through the western blot technique.

Results

Knockdown animals displayed developmental delay. The cdh2 expression decreased by 75% within 24 hours, rebounded by 48 hours, and reached wild-type levels by 96 hpf. gh1 expression decreased at 48h but increased by 96 hpf, aligning with WT. No significant differences in prop1 and pit1 expression were observed.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore cdh2’s role in pituitary development and hormonal regulation, offering insights for developmental biology research.
Study on the time-frequency linkages between China’s economic policy uncertainty and the carbon emission trading market (Central China)—evidence from partial wavelet coherence analysis
Authors: Wu Yaqi , Li Zhenhao , Cheng Yue , Yun Po
Published: October 2024

In the context of carbon neutrality, the economic policy uncertainty (EPU) in various countries is constantly rising, and the carbon emission trading market (CET market) is constantly changing. This study uses the wavelet analysis to analyze the time-frequency linkages between China’s economic policy uncertainty index (CEPU) and the price-earnings ratios of the Hubei CET market (HCMP), a representative of Chinese CET markets, from short-run, medium-run, and long-run perspectives. Results show that from the perspective of correlation in the time domain, the HCMP is positively correlated with the CEPU in different time periods. From the perspective of causality in the frequency domain, there is a causal relationship between the HCMP and CEPU in the short run, and the CEPU fluctuations are ahead of the HCMP fluctuations in the medium run. In the long run, the HCMP fluctuations are ahead of those of CEPU for the period before 2021, but the two fluctuate synchronously for the period after 2021. This study provides a reference for policymakers to manage the CET markets and for investors to optimize their investment portfolios.
Cytoplasmic DNA and AIM2 inflammasome in RA: where they come from and where they go?
Authors: Xu Conghui , Jing Weiyao , Liu Cui , Yuan Bo , Zhang Xinghua , Liu Limei , Zhang Fengfan , Chen Ping , Liu Qiang , Wang Haidong , Du Xiaozheng
Published: October 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease of undetermined etiology characterized by symmetric synovitis with predominantly destructive and multiple joint inflammation. Cytoplasmic DNA sensors that recognize protein molecules that are not themselves or abnormal dsDNA fragments play an integral role in the generation and perpetuation of autoimmune diseases by activating different signaling pathways and triggering innate immune signaling pathways and host defenses. Among them, melanoma deficiency factor 2 (AIM2) recognizes damaged DNA and double-stranded DNA and binds to them to further assemble inflammasome, initiating the innate immune response and participating in the pathophysiological process of rheumatoid arthritis. In this article, we review the research progress on the source of cytoplasmic DNA, the mechanism of assembly and activation of AIM2 inflammasome, and the related roles of other cytoplasmic DNA sensors in rheumatoid arthritis.
Pre-vaccination transcriptomic profiles of immune responders to the MUC1 peptide vaccine for colon cancer prevention
Authors: Cameron Cheryl M. , Raghu Vineet , Richardson Brian , Zagore Leah L. , Tamilselvan Banumathi , Golden Jackelyn , Cartwright Michael , Schoen Robert E. , Finn Olivera J. , Benos Panayiotis V. , Cameron Mark J.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Self-antigens abnormally expressed on tumors, such as MUC1, have been targeted by therapeutic cancer vaccines. We recently assessed in two clinical trials in a preventative setting whether immunity induced with a MUC1 peptide vaccine could reduce high colon cancer risk in individuals with a history of premalignant colon adenomas. In both trials, there were immune responders and non-responders to the vaccine.

Methods

Here we used PBMC pre-vaccination and 2 weeks after the first vaccine of responders and non-responders selected from both trials to identify early biomarkers of immune response involved in long-term memory generation and prevention of adenoma recurrence. We performed flow cytometry, phosflow, and differential gene expression analyses on PBMCs collected from MUC1 vaccine responders and non-responders pre-vaccination and two weeks after the first of three vaccine doses.

Results

MUC1 vaccine responders had higher frequencies of CD4 cells pre-vaccination, increased expression of CD40L on CD8 and CD4 T-cells, and a greater increase in ICOS expression on CD8 T-cells. Differential gene expression analysis revealed that iCOSL, PI3K AKT MTOR, and B-cell signaling pathways are activated early in response to the MUC1 vaccine. We identified six specific transcripts involved in elevated antigen presentation, B-cell activation, and NF-κB1 activation that were directly linked to finding antibody response at week 12. Finally, a model using these transcripts was able to predict non-responders with accuracy.

Discussion

These findings suggest that individuals who can be predicted to respond to the MUC1 vaccine, and potentially other vaccines, have greater readiness in all immune compartments to present and respond to antigens. Predictive biomarkers of MUC1 vaccine response may lead to more effective vaccines tailored to individuals with high risk for cancer but with varying immune fitness.
Quality-controlled characterization of a monoclonal antibody specific to an EC5-domain of human desmoglein 3 for pemphigus research
Authors: Eming Rüdiger , Riaz Shafaq , Müller Eliane J. , Zakrzewicz Anna , Linne Uwe , Tikkanen Ritva , Zimmer Christine Lea , Hudemann Christoph
Published: October 2024

Background

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a life-threatening autoimmune blistering disease caused mainly by IgG autoantibodies (auto-abs) against the cadherin-type adhesion molecules desmoglein (Dsg) 1 and 3. Pathogenic anti-Dsg3 auto-abs bind to different Dsg3 epitopes, leading, among others, to signalling that is involved in pathogenic events, such as Dsg3 depletion. As central tools in research on PV, a limited number of antibodies such as AK23 are frequently used by the autoimmune bullous disease community.

Methods

Previously, we have introduced a novel Dsg3 EC5-binding antibody termed 2G4 that may potentially serve as a superior tool for numerous PV related analysis. The purpose of this study was to develop a quality-controlled production and verification process that allows I) a continuous quality improvement, and II) a verified and comprehensible overall quality with regard to pathogenic antigen-specific binding in a variety of pemphigus assays for each batch production.

Results

Thus, a workflow based on a standardized operating procedure was established. This includes the verification of purity and in-vitro binding capacity (SDS-page, direct and indirect immunofluorescence) as primary parameters, and size analysis by mass-spectrometry and ex-vivo pathogenicity by monolayer dissociation assay.

Conclusion

We here present an extensive point-by-point quality controlled IgG production protocol, which will serve as a basis for a standardized antibody assessment in PV research.
Sentiment analysis of subcutaneous and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy: public healthcare perception through social media discourse
Authors: Tarango-García Alejandro , Rodríguez-Narciso Silvia , Castañeda-Leyva Netzahualcóyotl , Prieto-Nevárez Hannia M. , Lugo Reyes Saul O. , Espinosa-Rosales Francisco J. , Espinosa-Padilla Sara Elva , Staines-Boone Aidé T. , Torres-Bernal Luis F. , Álvarez-Cardona Aristóteles
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Immunoglobulin replacement therapy remains a cornerstone of treatment in antibody deficiencies and other inborn errors of immunity. While patient preferences between subcutaneous and intravenous immunoglobulin have been studied through questionnaires, no study has yet explored patient perspectives in a free environment. Therefore, we aimed to conduct a sentiment analysis as well as a temporal and geographical analysis on public opinions obtained from social media to better understand patient satisfaction and public perception on immunoglobulin therapy.

Methods

A dataset of 43,700 tweets spanning from the 1st of January of 2012 to the 31st of December of 2022 was obtained. A Valence Aware Dictionary for Sentiment Reasoning sentiment analysis was performed, followed by statistical, geographical and temporal analyses.

Results

Mean polarity of intravenous immunoglobulin related tweets was 0.1295 (positive), while mean polarity for subcutaneous immunoglobulin was 0.2117 (positive). Temporal analysis through a statistical model demonstrated that the volume of tweets increased over time for both subcutaneous and intravenous treatment. Geographical analysis revealed that the majority of texts originated from the United States. The highest mean polarity was observed in Romania with a mean value of 0.2966, while the lowest polarity was documented in Norway with a mean of -0.0211.

Conclusion

Tweets linked to subcutaneous immunoglobulin treatment had a higher average polarity, indicating a more positive public perception. The amount of tweets relating to both therapies showed a tendency to increase as the years progressed, implying an increase in public discussion on immunoglobulin treatment.
Intranasal sensitization model of alopecia areata using pertussis toxin as adjuvant
Authors: Liu Yuying , Freeborn Jasmin , Okeugo Beanna , Armbrister Shabba A. , Saleh Zeina M. , Fadhel Alvarez Ana Beatriz , Hoang Thomas K. , Park Evelyn S. , Lindsey John William , Rapini Ronald P. , Glazer Steven , Rubin Keith , Rhoads Jon Marc
Published: October 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal Bordetella pertussis (BP) colonization is common, with about 5% of individuals having PCR evidence of subclinical BP infection on nasal swab, even in countries with high vaccination rates. BP secretes pertussis toxin (PTx). PTx is an adjuvant commonly used to induce autoimmunity in multiple animal models of human disease. Colocalization of PTx and myelin from myelinated nerves in the nasopharynx may lead to host sensitization to myelin with subsequent autoimmune pathology.

Methods

C57BL/6J female adult mice were given varied doses and schedules of intranasal PTx, MOG35-55 antigen, or controls to test whether intranasal administration of PTx and myelin oligodendrocyte peptide (MOG35-55) could induce experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice. While we observed systemic cell-mediated immunity against MOG35-55, we did not observe EAE. Unexpectedly, many mice developed alopecia. We systematically investigated this finding.

Results

Patchy alopecia developed in 36.4% of mice with the optimized protocol. Pathology consistent with alopecia areata was confirmed histologically by documenting concomitant reduced anagen phase and increased telogen phase hair follicles (HFs) in biopsies from patches of hair loss in mice with alopecia. We also found reduced CD200 staining and increased CD3+T cells surrounding the HFs of mice with alopecia compared to the mice without alopecia, indicating HF Immune Privilege (HFIP) collapse. Systemic immune responses were also found, with increased proportions of activated T cells and B cells, as well as MHCII+ dendritic cells in peripheral blood and/or splenocytes. Finally, in mice initially exposed to intranasal MOG35-55 and PTx in combination, but not to either agent alone, splenocytes were shown to proliferate after in vitro stimulation by MOG35-55. Consistent with prior investigations, PTx exhibited a dose-response effect on immune cell induction and phenotype, with the lowest PTx dose failing to induce autoimmunity, the highest PTx dose suppressing autoimmunity, and intermediate doses optimizing autoimmunity.

Conclusions

We propose that this is the first report of an autoimmune disease in an animal model triggered by colocalization of intranasal PTx and autoantigen. This model parallels a natural exposure and potential intranasal sensitization-to-pathology paradigm and supports the plausibility that nasopharyngeal subclinical BP colonization is a cause of alopecia areata.
Physiotherapists’ knowledge about the diagnosis, treatment and physical activity of patients with idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Wójcik Piotr , Wójcik Anna , Ewertowska Paulina , Czaprowski Dariusz
Published: October 2024

Idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity with an unknown etiology which, when left untreated, can have negative health consequences. Physiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of IS, which is why physiotherapists should have adequate theoretical and practical knowledge about IS diagnosis and treatment methods. The aim of this study was to assess physiotherapists’ knowledge about IS, its diagnosis, treatment and recommended physical activities for subjects with IS. The influence of post-graduate courses, workplace, academic degree, work experience, education and membership in associations dealing with spinal deformities was also analyzed. The study involved 116 licensed physiotherapists. The research method was a diagnostic survey, and the research tool was a self-designed questionnaire. The questionnaire which included demographic questions to elicit information about the respondents and questions concerning IS, its diagnosis, treatment and recommended physical activity in the course of IS. The questions were created according to the recommendation of the Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment. In the questionnaire, the respondents’ knowledge was assessed on the percent scale (100–90% of correct answers – full knowledge, 89–60% of correct answers – good knowledge, 59–50% of correct answers – moderate knowledge, <50% of correct answers – poor knowledge). The physiotherapists correctly answered from 60 to 89% of the questions which meant their good level of knowledge of IS. Factors such as post-graduate courses, workplace and academic degree influenced the knowledge of Polish physiotherapists regarding IS (p = 0.003, p = 0.036, p = 0.05, respectively). Physiotherapists who completed courses based on physiotherapy recommended by SOSORT demonstrated a higher level of knowledge compared to those without postgraduate courses (p = 0.018). The physiotherapists who ran the private individual physiotherapy practice demonstrated a higher level of knowledge compared to those working in a hospital (p = 0.058). Work experience and education have no influence on the physiotherapists’ knowledge about IS. Polish physiotherapists have a good knowledge of IS. Post-graduate courses (courses on Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercises), the respondents’ place of employment (private individual physiotherapy practice) and academic degree influence the knowledge about IS. Work experience, education and membership in associations dealing with spinal deformities have no influence on the physiotherapists’ knowledge about IS.
A bibliometric analysis of diabetic gastroparesis from 1979 to 2024
Authors: Xu Hui , Miao Furui , Fan Yushan
Published: October 2024

Objective

Gastroparesis is one of the complications of diabetes mellitus, which has a major impact on the quality of life of patients, and the limited therapeutic options currently available make it a public health problem. No bibliometric studies on diabetic gastroparesis have been published to date. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to summarize and analyze the research hotspots for researchers.

Methods

Research articles related to Diabetic gastroparesis were searched in Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC), and relevant information was extracted after screening. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 699 publications was conducted using Microsoft Excel 2019, Citespace and VOSviewers.

Result

A total of 699 papers from 738 institutions in 41 countries were retrieved. Publications in this field have increased rapidly since 1979. USA (n = 370) and Mayo Clinical (n = 69) were the most productive country and institution, respectively. Neurogastroenterology and Motility (n = 67) was the most published journal with Parkman, Henry P. (n = 40) having the highest number of articles; Gastroenterology and Mccallum, Richard W. were the most influential journals and authors.

Conclusions

The research hotspots of Diabetic gastroparesis are mainly focused on treatment modalities and pathological mechanisms. Future research in diabetic gastroparesis will focus on exploring the pathomechanisms, finding long-term effective treatments, and improving patients' quality of life.
Asthma and hypertension: the role of airway inflammation
Authors: Visca Dina , Ardesi Francesco , Zappa Martina , Pignatti Patrizia , Grossi Sarah , Vanetti Marco , Migliori Giovanni Battista , Centis Rosella , Angeli Fabio , Spanevello Antonio
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory disease often associated with comorbidities. Among cardiovascular comorbidities, arterial hypertension seems to create an additional health burden in asthmatics. However, evidence on this relationship is lacking.

Objective

Our study aims to evaluate the characteristics of hypertensive asthmatics, focusing on the role of inflammation as a possible link between these diseases.

Methods

We conducted a monocentric retrospective analysis consecutively including asthmatics who underwent induced sputum (IS) at our asthma referral center. Patients were divided in two groups according to presence or absence of history of hypertension. Clinical, functional, and inflammatory (airway and systemic) data were collected.

Results

Data on two hundred and sixty asthmatic patients were analyzed. Seventy-nine (30.4%) of them had a diagnosis of hypertension requiring a specific pharmacological treatment. Asthmatics with hypertension were more frequently male (p = 0.047), older (p < 0.001), and with higher body max index (BMI) (p < 0.001) when compared to normotensive patients. No difference concerning asthma control, severity and pharmacological treatment was observed between the two groups (all p > 0.05); distribution of comorbidities and lung function impairment (forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC); all p < 0.05) were statistically different between groups. Mixed granulocytic airway inflammation was prevalent in the hypertensive asthmatics (p = 0.014). Interestingly, a multivariable analysis revealed that age ≥ 65 years and an increased percentage of sputum neutrophils (≥61%) were independent predictors of hypertensive status (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that neutrophilic airway inflammation (as evaluated by induced sputum) is strictly associated with hypertension. In clinical practice, phenotyping asthmatic patients with comorbidities like hypertension could be useful also from a therapeutic point of view. Additional studies are mandatory to further elucidate the role of neutrophilic airway inflammation in asthma with cardiovascular diseases.
A comparison of the effects of lung protective ventilation and conventional ventilation on the occurrence of atelectasis during laparoscopic surgery in young infants: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yue Kun , Wang Jingru , Wu Huangxing , Sun Yingying , Xia Yin , Chen Qi
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study utilized lung ultrasound to investigate whether lung protective ventilation reduces pulmonary atelectasis and improves intraoperative oxygenation in infants undergoing laparoscopic surgery.

Methods

Eighty young infants (aged 1–6 months) who received general anesthesia for more than 2 h during laparoscopic surgery were randomized into the lung protective ventilation group (LPV group) and the conventional ventilation group (control group). The LPV group received mechanical ventilation starting at 6 mL/kg tidal volume, 5 cmH2O PEEP, 60% inspired oxygen fraction, and half-hourly alveolar recruitment maneuvers. Control group ventilation began with 8–10 mL/kg tidal volume, 0 cmH2O PEEP, and 60% inspired oxygen fraction. Lung ultrasound was conducted five times—T1 (5 min post-intubation), T2 (5 min post-pneumoperitoneum), T3 (at the end of surgery), T4 (post-extubation), and T5 (prior to discharge from the PACU)—for each infant. Simultaneous arterial blood gas analysis was performed at T1, T2, T3, and T4.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed in pulmonary atelectasis incidence, lung ultrasound scores, and the PaO2, PaCO2, PaO2/FiO2 ratios at T2, T3, and T4. However, at T5, no statistically significant differences were noted in terms of lung ultrasound scores (4.30 ± 1.87 vs. 5.00 ± 2.43, 95% CI: −1.67 to 0.27, p = 0.153) or the incidence of pulmonary atelectasis (32.5% vs. 47.5%, p = 0.171).

Conclusion

In infants aged 1–6 months, lung protective ventilation during laparoscopy under general anesthesia significantly reduced the incidence of pulmonary atelectasis and enhanced intraoperative oxygenation and dynamic lung compliance compared to conventional ventilation. However, these benefits did not persist; no differences were observed in lung ultrasound scores or the incidence of pulmonary atelectasis at PACU discharge.

Clinical trial registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/, identifier: ChiCTR2200058653.
The human gut metacommunity as a conceptual aid in the development of precision medicine
Authors: Tannock Gerald W.
Published: October 2024

Human gut microbiomes (microbiotas) are highly individualistic in taxonomic composition but nevertheless are functionally similar. Thus, collectively, they comprise a “metacommunity.” In ecological terminology, the assembly of human gut microbiomes is influenced by four processes: selection, speciation, drift, and dispersal. As a result of fortuitous events associated with these processes, individual microbiomes are taxonomically “tailor-made” for each host. However, functionally they are “off-the-shelf” because of similar functional outputs resulting from metabolic redundancy developed in host-microbe symbiosis. Because of this, future microbiological and molecular studies of microbiomes should emphasize the metabolic interplay that drives the human gut metacommunity and that results in these similar functional outputs. This knowledge will support the development of remedies for specific functional dysbioses and hence provide practical examples of precision medicine.
Post-operative delirium in different age groups and subtypes: a systematic review of case reports
Authors: Guo Jiaming , Guo Xiaomei , Liu Wei , Zhou Aoran , Han Jiayi , Yi Runxin , Dong Lijuan , Zhou Yinhao
Published: October 2024

Aims

To explore the clinical presentations and outcomes among different ages and subtypes of post-operative delirium patients.

Design

Systematic review of Published Cases.

Methods and data sources

We comprehensively searched PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE for published case reports of post-operative delirium up to April 2023. The systematic review has been registered with PROSPERO. Two researchers independently conducted unblinded reviews of the full-text articles.

Results

This study included 116 patients with post-operative delirium. Compared to post-operative delirium patients aged 65 and above, those between 18 and 65 years old have lower rates of a history of hypertension, cardiovascular disease and urinary system disorder comorbidities, as well as higher usage rates of fentanyl analogs and lorazepam. Additionally, these patients exhibit lower incidences of anemia and renal failure, along with a lower mortality rate. Compared to post-operative delirium patients aged 65 and above, those under 18 years old have a higher rate of fentanyl analog usage and a higher incidence of post-operative delirium following neurological surgeries. Among the hypoactive, hyperactive, and mixed subtypes, the reasons for surgery, such as cardiovascular diseases, reproductive system diseases, and neurological disorders, significantly varied among these three subtypes. Furthermore, substance abuse history and medication usage patterns also significantly varied among these three subtypes.

Conclusions

Our investigation has revealed noteworthy insights into post-operative delirium in different patient populations. Notably, age emerged as a pivotal factor. Compared to elderly patients (≥65 years), those aged 18 to 65 demonstrate better prognosis. Additionally, patients younger than 18 years with post-operative delirium have a higher incidence of delirium following neurosurgical procedures compared to those elderly patients. Additionally, a strong association was found between a history of substance abuse and hyperactive delirium. Variations in drug use patterns were observed across different subtypes. Importantly, post-operative delirium patients younger than 18 years, as well as those aged 18 to 65 with mixed-subtype delirium, exhibited similar high mortality rates as elderly patients. This underscores the need for increased attention to post-operative delirium patients under 65 and highlights the necessity of rapid identification and early intervention for these populations at risk of poor outcomes.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023473383, Identifier [Registration ID: CRD 42023473383].
How can heatstroke damage the brain? A mini review
Authors: Yoneda Kazuhiro , Hosomi Sanae , Ito Hiroshi , Togami Yuki , Oda Sayaka , Matsumoto Hisatake , Shimazaki Junya , Ogura Hiroshi , Oda Jun
Published: October 2024

Record-breaking heat waves over the past 20 years have led to a global increase in heat-related deaths, including heatstroke. Heat-related illnesses occur when the body cannot adapt to the elevated temperatures in the environment, leading to various symptoms. In severe situations, such as heatstroke, the body temperature can rise above 40°C, leading to significant injury to body systems, with particular susceptibility of the central nervous system (CNS). Neuroimaging studies conducted months or years after a heatstroke have revealed cellular damage in the cerebellum and other brain regions, including the hippocampus, midbrain, and thalamus, with the potential for long-term neurological complications in survivors of a heatstroke. This mini review aimed to describe the mechanisms and pathways underlying the development of brain injury induced by heatstroke and identify diagnostic imaging tools and biomarkers for injury to the CNS due to a heatstroke.
AGTR1: a potential biomarker associated with the occurrence and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xiao Rui , Han Jiajia , Deng Yongjian , Zhang Ling , Qian Ying , Tian Nan , Yang Zhen , Zhang Lin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Lung adenocarcinoma, a disease with complex pathogenesis, high mortality and poor prognosis, is one of the subtypes of lung cancer. Hence, it is very crucial to find novel biomarkers as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for LUAD.

Methods

GSE10072 was used for DEGs and WGCNA, and the intersection genes were subjected to enrichment analysis through Metascape and GSEA. Key genes were screened by three machine learning methods. Further, the reliability of key genes was identified by ROC, COX regression analysis and qRT-PCR. CIBERSORT and Spearman analysis were used for understanding the relationships of LUAD, immunity and key genes. In addition, ceRNA networks and potential drugs of key genes were constructed and predicted.

Results

After overlapping 631 DEGs and key module genes, 623 intersection genes were obtained. Subsequently, DUOX1, CD36, AGTR1, FHL5 and SSR4 were further selected using three machine learning methods. Reliability analysis demonstrated that AGTR1 possesses important predictive value for the occurrence and prognosis of LUAD. The enrichment analysis showed that AGTR1 was significantly enriched in the GPCR-related pathways. Immune infiltration analysis showed that the development of LUAD was related to the changes of immune cells such as M2 macrophages and neutrophils, which were regulated by AGTR1. Further, AGTR1 is also involved in regulating immune chemokines, checkpoints and immune regulatory factors such as PECAM1, ADARB1, SPP1 and ENO1, all of them playing important roles in immune cell regulation, tumor cell proliferation and migration. Further, the drug-gene interaction network screened out 13 potential drugs such as Benazepril, Valsartan, Eprosartan, and so on.

Discussion

AGTR1 is a potential biomarker for the occurrence and progression of LUAD, closely related to tumor immunity, proliferation and migration. It can serve as a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of LUAD.
Mullerian adenosarcoma accidentally detected and coexisting with cervical carcinoma in situ: a rare case report
Authors: Qing Xuemei , Xie Min , Guo Hongying , Zhang Liying , Ye Jiatian , Zhang Yong , Ma Ying
Published: October 2024

Mullerian adenosarcoma is rare, usually found in the uterine corpus and rarely in the cervix. Adenosarcoma that grows diffusely in the uterine cavity and the cervical canal is even rarer without symptoms. Herein, we report a rare case of multiple primary malignant neoplasms of Mullerian adenosarcoma accidentally detected and coexisting with cervical carcinoma in situ. Fortunately, the tumor was in the early stage and the Mullerian adenosarcoma was treated together with the cervical carcinoma in situ by hysterectomy + bilateral adnexectomy. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry results confirmed this diagnosis, further confirmed by a pathology consultation at the University Hospital. The patient recovered well from the surgical treatment and was discharged with regular follow-up. The patient did not undergo pelvis–abdomen CT and diagnostic curettage preoperatively, and no malignancy was detected by cryo-pathology intraoperatively, which may be related to the rarity of the disease and the relative lack of awareness and experience of our clinicians and pathologists for this tumor. We hope that this rare case can provide some lessons for gynecologists and pathologists.
A protein elicitor PeVn1 from Verticillium nonalfalfae HW recognized as a MAMP triggers plant immunity response
Authors: Zhang Ziyu , Wang Dong , Dong Baozhu , Wang Yu , Xu Jialu , Hao Jianxiu , Zhou Hongyou
Published: October 2024

Protein elicitors can induce plant systemic resistance to pathogens. The recognition of a potential elicitor activates intracellular signaling events, leading to plant resistance against pathogens. In this study, a novel protein elicitor was isolated from the culture filtrate of Verticillium nonalfalfae and named PeVn1, which can induce cell death in several plant species. The PeVn1 gene was then cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. The recombinant protein PeVn1 triggers cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana in NbBAK1 and NbSOBIR1 dependent manner. Through bioassay analysis showed that the recombinant PeVn1 induced early defense induction events, such as reactive oxygen species burst, callose deposition and the activation of defense hormone signaling pathways and defense enzyme activities. Moreover, PeVn1 significantly enhanced resistance of Nicotiana benthamiana to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Botrytis cinerea and N. benthamiana mosaic virus and tomato to Pseudomonas syringae pv. Tomato DC3000. In conclusion, our study reveals that PeVn1 protein as a microbe-associated molecular pattern can induce plant immune responses, which provides a theoretical basis for the development of novel protein-induced disease resistance agents.
A mixed-methods evaluation of a longitudinal primary–secondary school transitions support intervention
Authors: Bagnall Charlotte Louise , Stevenson Elizabeth , Cookson Darel , Jones Frederick , Garnett Nicholas James
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Primary–secondary school transitions are critical transitions for children that can be emotionally demanding longitudinal experiences, which can positively and negatively impact future emotional wellbeing and mental health. However, interventions that have been developed to reduce the negative outcomes children commonly experience are limited in number, sustainability, and reach and rely on a cross-sectional approach, as opposed to longitudinal evaluations. The current study evaluates Transitions 5–7, a universal, class-based 9-week intervention to develop children’s awareness and ability to cope with the multiple changes experienced over primary–secondary school transitions.

Methods

The evaluation utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative outcome and qualitative process intervention evaluation. For the outcome evaluation, a quasi-experimental research design was used, and children of the intervention and comparison groups completed a questionnaire in Year 5 (n = 185), Year 6 (n = 217), and Year 7 (n = 162), which assessed their self-reported perception of Transitions Worries, Transitions Excitement, Emotional Wellbeing, Parental Support, and Coping Efficacy. To understand the implementation of Transitions 5–7, three focus groups were conducted with Year 6 children, 3 interviews with teachers, and 1 interview with the Transitions Manager of the local government education authority during the project, who developed Transitions 5–7.

Results

The outcome evaluation found that children participating in the intervention showed a decrease in Transitions Worries and an increase in Transitions Excitement and Coping Efficacy compared with the comparison group, resulting in a lowered impact on Emotional Wellbeing over time. The need for a more systemic approach to primary–secondary school support provision, which is gradual, has a distinct delivery and follows a skills-based curriculum, was discussed in the process evaluation. Meta-inferences drawn demonstrate the importance of gradual emotional centered transitions provision embedded within Years 5, 6, and 7.

Discussion

The present study makes a unique empirical contribution in demonstrating the need and viability to take a preventative as opposed to a curative approach to primary–secondary school transitions support provision and begin early in Year 5. Conceptual and methodological implications for future research and implications for educational policy and practice are discussed.
Empirical Studies on Merging Characteristics in Temporary Highway Work Zones with Different Traffic States and Layouts
Authors: Jiao Yanli , Zhu Xiaoyue , Ji Xinkai , Zhang Long , Li Zhibin
Published: October 2024

Vehicles conduct mandatory lane changes to merge into the open lanes in temporary highway work zones, and the merging characteristics have been widely studied over the past decades. Unlike research on other traffic facilities, the data and scenarios of highway work zones are often lacking and monotonous. This study presented a vehicle trajectory dataset in highway work zones. The dataset contains ten work zone sites and three different layouts. After transforming raw videos into high-resolution trajectories, we selected eight areas and divided them into three scenarios to investigate the merging characteristics in highway work zones with different traffic states and layouts. In work zones with varying traffic conditions, we found opposite merging locations and lane speed distribution trends. In work zones with varying layouts, we found different merging location distributions, lane speed distributions, and impacts on the following vehicle’s speed. The relationship between the gap and merge speed was consistent with previous studies.
The Latest Developments in Research on Sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals in the Areas of Business, Management and Accounting
Authors: Minutiello Valentina , García-Sánchez Isabel-María , Aibar-Guzmán Beatriz
Published: October 2024

The importance of introducing a new sustainable development paradigm to safeguard the entire planet is now undisputed. One of the tools aiming to respond to this need consists of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contained within the 2030 Agenda. Businesses play a crucial role in achieving these objectives and must prove themselves to be active actors in promoting sustainable practices. However, the integration of these objectives within their business models turns out to be a complex operation, which requires numerous skills and resources. This paper consists of a systematic literature review on the topic of research on the SDGs in the areas of business, management and accounting with the aim of identifying the barriers facing communities and tools to support companies in this process, as well as possible areas for improvement. Furthermore, it allows us to identify gaps on which future research should focus. To achieve this aim, papers related to the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs published in journals indexed in the Scopus database between January 2015 and June 2024 were analysed. The results demonstrated a great heterogeneity within the research area and the emergence of some important concepts, such as the circular economy, artificial intelligence and Industry 4.0, and some recurring themes, such as the role of stakeholders in achieving the SDGs and the financial and non-financial benefits of SDG strategies and practices.
Variations in Heart Rate Variability and Physiological Responses during Analog Space Missions: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Benítez-Salgado Acatzin , Peña-Castillo Miguel Ángel , Santiago-Fuentes Laura Mercedes , Zúñiga-Avilés Luis Adrián , Abarca-Castro Eric Alonso , Talavera-Peña Ana Karen , Avila-Gutierrez Lizeth , Rodríguez-Arce Jorge , Reyes-Lagos José Javier
Published: October 2024

This exploratory study investigates changes in the autonomic cardiac system of young analog astronauts in a hostile, confined, and isolated environment. It uses linear and nonlinear indices of heart rate variability (HRV) during a Mars analog mission to assess how HRV varies under day and night stressors. This study is guided by the hypothesis that significant HRV changes occur based on adaptation days, aiming to offer insights into autonomic nervous system (ANS) adaptation to environmental stressors. Over five days in August 2022, five analog astronauts faced adverse conditions in the Mojave Desert, simulating Martian conditions. Electrocardiograms were recorded daily for five minutes during morning and evening sessions to extract short-term RR time series. HRV parameters were analyzed using both time- and frequency-domain indices and nonlinear measures. Significant differences in HRV parameters across days highlight the mission environment’s impact on autonomic cardiac function. Morning measurements showed significant changes in average RR intervals and heart rate, indicating ANS adaptation. Nonlinear indices such as detrended fluctuation analysis and approximate entropy also showed significant differences, reflecting shifts in autonomic function. The Borg scale indicated reduced perceived exertion over time, aligning with HRV changes. Increased vagal activity during Mars analog adaptation under confinement/isolation may be crucial for cardiovascular adaptation and survival in future space flights.
Detection of Mechanical Damage in Corn Seeds Using Hyperspectral Imaging and the ResNeSt_E Deep Learning Network
Authors: Huang Hua , Liu Yinfeng , Zhu Shiping , Feng Chuan , Zhang Shaoqi , Shi Lei , Sun Tong , Liu Chao
Published: October 2024

Corn is one of the global staple grains and the largest grain crop in China. During harvesting, grain separation, and corn production, corn is susceptible to mechanical damage including surface cracks, internal cracks, and breakage. However, the internal cracks are difficult to observe. In this study, hyperspectral imaging was used to detect mechanical damage in corn seeds. The corn seeds were divided into four categories that included intact, broken, internally cracked, and surface-crackedtv. This study compared three feature extraction methods, including principal component analysis (PCA), kernel PCA (KPCA), and factor analysis (FA), as well as a joint feature extraction method consisting of a combination of these methods. The dimensionality reduction results of the three methods (FA + KPCA, KPCA + FA, and PCA + FA) were combined to form a new combined dataset and improve the classification. We then compared the effects of six classification models (ResNet, ShuffleNet-V2, MobileNet-V3, ResNeSt, EfficientNet-V2, and MobileNet-V4) and proposed a ResNeSt_E network based on the ResNeSt and efficient multi-scale attention modules. The accuracy of ResNeSt_E reached 99.0%, and this was 0.4% higher than that of EfficientNet-V2 and 0.7% higher than that of ResNeSt. Additionally, the number of parameters and memory requirements were reduced and the frames per second were improved. We compared two dimensionality reduction methods: KPCA + FA and PCA + FA. The classification accuracies of the two methods were the same; however, PCA + FA was much more efficient than KPCA + FA and was more suitable for practical detection. The ResNeSt_E network could detect both internal and surface cracks in corn seeds, making it suitable for mobile terminal applications. The results demonstrated that detecting mechanical damage in corn seeds using hyperspectral images was possible. This study provides a reference for mechanical damage detection methods for corn.
Research on Meteorological Drought Risk Prediction in the Daqing River Basin Based on HADGEM3-RA
Authors: Lv Mingcong , Wang Zhongmei
Published: October 2024

Climate change is altering the water cycle and increasing drought risks in river basins. However, few studies account for minor droughts, despite their limited environmental impact. This study uses a pooling and exclusion method to remove the effects of minor droughts on the identification of drought events and analyze drought characteristics in the Daqing River Basin (DRB) using the HADGEM3-RA model within an Exposure–Resilience–Vulnerability (ERV) framework. It finds that the drought duration and the number of events are sensitive to pooling and exclusion rates. Drought severity is also sensitive to exclusion rates. Pooling and exclusion lead to fewer but longer and more severe droughts. Future droughts in the DRB are projected to become more severe, with durations averaging up to 7 months and severity increasing from 0.2 to 4.3. Drought peak severity is expected to exceed 1.28, with development and relief periods extending to 0.68 and 0.69 months, respectively. Risk levels in the basin are projected to rise from I to II–IV, with RCP4.5 scenarios showing higher risks than RCP8.5. Mountainous areas will face higher risks compared to plains. Initially, risk factors will increase then decline over time. These findings clarify drought dynamics and risk changes in the DRB under climate change. They can help in developing climate-resilient strategies for disaster reduction in similar basins.
A Review of the Application of the Laser-Light Backscattering Imaging Technique to Agricultural Products
Authors: Pham Thanh Tung , Nguyen Thanh Ba , Dam Mai Sao , Nguyen Lien Le Phuong , Baranyai László
Published: October 2024

Growing concerns about food safety and waste have increased consumer demand for high-quality agricultural products, particularly at the postharvest stage. This demand has prompted the development of non-destructive methods to assess or inspect the internal quality of fruits and vegetables. The backscattering imaging technique, also known as diffuse reflectance imaging, is considered a highly promising approach. Numerous studies have focused on practical applications, using laser light at selected wavelengths to develop quick multispectral methods. Due to the rapid interaction of photons with biological tissue, together with the highly computational performance of machine vision, backscattering imaging can offer a valuable alternative to traditional methods. Its primary benefits include quick measurements without chemical sample preparation, easy integration with high-throughput automatic quality control, and reduced waste, since this non-destructive technique does not damage samples. This review presents a comprehensive overview of backscattering imaging, including the measurement geometry, data analysis, and design considerations for vision systems. Additionally, it explores this technique’s advantages, challenges, and accuracy, as demonstrated using various case studies.