bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between tertiary lymphoid structure density and immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy in solid tumors: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jiang Bin , Wu Zhuo , Zhang Yang , Yang Xueying
Published: October 2024

Background

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) play a crucial role in tumor immunity, yet their relationship with the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in cancer therapy is not fully understood. This study aims to systematically evaluate how TLS density influences treatment outcomes in cancer patients receiving ICI therapy.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched for eligible studies published before January 22, 2024. Our analysis encompassed odds ratios (ORs) for response rates (RRs) and hazard ratios (HRs) for progression-free survival (PFS), each with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Our meta-analysis, including 19 clinical trials with 1,752 patients, identified a strong correlation between high TLS density and increased RR to ICIs (OR= 2.99, 95% CI: 2.14-4.18, P < 0.001). Furthermore, a higher TLS density was associated with prolonged PFS (HR=0.75, 95% CI: 0.63-0.88, P < 0.001). Specifically, in the context of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), breast cancer (BC), renal cell carcinoma (RCC), esophageal cancer (EC), and urothelial carcinoma (UC), a significant relationship was observed between high TLS density and better ICI efficacy. Publication bias did not affect the integrity of our conclusions. Sensitivity analysis further reinforced the reliability of our aggregated outcomes.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis underscores the predictive role of TLS density in determining the RR and PFS among cancer patients undergoing ICI therapy. These results highlight the prognostic significance of TLS, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for guiding treatment decisions, even in tumor types traditionally considered ICI-resistant. Clinicians are recommended to assess TLS density as a part of patient evaluation to optimize ICI therapy initiation.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023439875.
Development and validation of preeclampsia predictive models using key genes from bioinformatics and machine learning approaches
Authors: Li Qian , Wei Xiaowei , Wu Fan , Qin Chuanmei , Dong Junpeng , Chen Cailian , Lin Yi
Published: October 2024

Background

Preeclampsia (PE) poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This study aims to identify novel genes for potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets, illuminating the immune mechanisms involved.

Methods

Three GEO datasets were analyzed, merging two for training set, and using the third for external validation. Intersection analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and WGCNA highlighted candidate genes. These were further refined through LASSO, SVM-RFE, and RF algorithms to identify diagnostic hub genes. Diagnostic efficacy was assessed using ROC curves. A predictive nomogram and fully Connected Neural Network (FCNN) were developed for PE prediction. ssGSEA and correlation analysis were employed to investigate the immune landscape. Further validation was provided by qRT-PCR on human placental samples.

Result

Five biomarkers were identified with validation AUCs: CGB5 (0.663, 95% CI: 0.577-0.750), LEP (0.850, 95% CI: 0.792-0.908), LRRC1 (0.797, 95% CI: 0.728-0.867), PAPPA2 (0.839, 95% CI: 0.775-0.902), and SLC20A1 (0.811, 95% CI: 0.742-0.880), all of which are involved in key biological processes. The nomogram showed strong predictive power (C-index 0.873), while FCNN achieved an optimal AUC of 0.911 (95% CI: 0.732-1.000) in five-fold cross-validation. Immune infiltration analysis revealed the importance of T cell subsets, neutrophils, and NK cells in PE, linking these genes to immune mechanisms underlying PE pathogenesis.

Conclusion

CGB5, LEP, LRRC1, PAPPA2, and SLC20A1 are validated as key diagnostic biomarkers for PE. Nomogram and FCNN could credibly predict PE. Their association with immune infiltration underscores the crucial role of immune responses in PE pathogenesis.
Therapeutic potential of natural coumarins in autoimmune diseases with underlying mechanisms
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Guan-qing , Li Yan-bin
Published: October 2024

Autoimmune diseases encompass a wide range of disorders characterized by disturbed immunoregulation leading to the development of specific autoantibodies, which cause inflammation and multiple organ involvement. However, its pathogenesis remains unelucidated. Furthermore, the cumulative medical and economic burden of autoimmune diseases is on the rise, making these diseases a ubiquitous global phenomenon that is predicted to further increase in the coming decades. Coumarins, a class of aromatic natural products with benzene and alpha-pyrone as their basic structures, has good therapeutic effects on autoimmune diseases. In this review, we systematically highlighted the latest evidence on coumarins and autoimmune diseases data from clinical and animal studies. Coumarin acts on immune cells and cytokines and plays a role in the treatment of autoimmune diseases by regulating NF-κB, Keap1/Nrf2, MAPKs, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT, Notch and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways. This systematic review will provide insight into the interaction of coumarin and autoimmune diseases, and will lay a groundwork for the development of new drugs for autoimmune diseases.
Assessment of COVID-19 severity levels and associated factors among patients admitted to the treatment centers in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tirore Lire Lemma , Sergindo Mihretu Tagesse , Areba Abriham Shiferaw , Hailegebireal Aklilu Habte , Desalegn Mitiku
Published: October 2024

Background

COVID-19, a highly impactful infectious disease, has been observed to result in psychological distress, organ impairment, and mortality. The severity and consequences of the illness appear to vary based on geographical location and individual characteristics. Understanding the disease and optimizing resource distribution through early classification depend on having data on the severity of COVID-19 patients. There is a dearth of information in this particular region regarding the severity of COVID-19 patients and related factors. Therefore, this study used an ordinal logistic regression model to determine the severity levels of COVID-19 and its associated components.

Materials and methods

A retrospective follow-up study was conducted on COVID-19 patients admitted between May 30, 2020, and October 15, 2021, at care centers in southern Ethiopia. 845 patients were included in this research. The mean (standard deviation) and median (interquartile range) were used to summarize the data. A multivariable ordinal logistic regression model was used to study the association between independent variables and COVID-19 severity levels.

Results

In terms of the severity of the disease, 12.07% of patients had severe COVID-19, 7.81% had critical disease, and 6.39% had moderate disease. 8.28% of the 845 patients died, while 88.88% of them made a full recovery. Older age (> = 40 years) (AOR = 5.75, 95% CI = 3.99, 8.27), comorbidities (AOR = 4.17, 95% CI = 3.03, 5.88), and low oxygen saturation (AOR = 3.44, 95% CI = 2.23, 5.56) were significantly linked to higher odds of experiencing more severe levels of COVID-19 compared to their counterparts.

Conclusion

7.81% of patients were critically ill, while more than one-tenth (12.07%) were considered severely ill. Low oxygen saturation, comorbidities, and advanced age were found to be significantly associated with COVID-19 severity. Therefore, it is crucial to manage comorbidities, provide special treatment, and provide COVID-19 patients with underlying medical issues more attention due to the higher risk of poor outcomes. To speed up their recovery, medical professionals should regularly monitor and provide specialized care to older COVID-19 patients. In order to identify patients who are more likely to experience a severe illness and to better manage their treatment, it is imperative that oxygen saturation levels in COVID-19 patients be promptly identified and monitored.
Effect of low-dose aspirin intervention on pre-eclampsia prevention in high-risk pregnant women and its impact on postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Zhang Fangfang , Wang Huijuan
Published: October 2024

Background

Pre-eclampsia, characterized by hypertension and organ dysfunction during pregnancy, poses significant risks to both maternal and fetal health. Aspirin, known for its antiplatelet properties, has been extensively utilized to mitigate pregnancy-related complications. However, the efficacy of low-dose aspirin in managing pre-eclampsia among high-risk pregnant women and its potential impact on postpartum hemorrhage remain contentious topics.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 344 pregnant women diagnosed with high-risk factors for pre-eclampsia. Among them, 152 received intervention with low-dose aspirin, while the rest did not receive it. The incidence of pre-eclampsia, as well as related complications and outcomes associated with bleeding, were compared and evaluated between the two groups.

Results

The study findings indicate a significant reduction in the incidence of pre-eclampsia among pregnant women receiving low-dose aspirin intervention, along with a significantly reduced risk of complications. Additionally, there was no significant statistical difference in postpartum hemorrhage between the two groups (p > 0.05). The safety profile of aspirin usage was found to be favorable.

Conclusion

Low-dose aspirin demonstrates promising efficacy as an intervention strategy for high-risk preeclamptic women. It does not increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and reduces the occurrence of complications associated with preeclampsia. Therefore, low-dose aspirin presents a potential preventive measure against adverse outcomes associated with high-risk pregnancies related to preeclampsia. Further research is necessary to validate and elucidate the optimal dosage and timing of administration for maximal benefits.
The clinical significance of the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a novel inflammatory biomarker for assessing the severity of intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Guo Kai , Zeng Jianhua , Lu Jiawei , Guo Youfeng , Shan Peipei , Huang Yufeng , Wu Desheng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Inflammation is integral to the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration, yet the role of systemic inflammatory markers in this process remains underexplored. This study aims to explore the association between the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and the severity of disc degeneration.

Patients and methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 375 patients diagnosed with lumbar disc degeneration between April 2018 and May 2021. All patients underwent a complete blood cell count examination. We applied the Pfirrmann grading system for cumulative disc grading, stratifying patients into two groups: a high-score group (cumulative grade > 17) and a low-score group (cumulative grade ≤ 17), based on the median cumulative grade. The association between the NLR and and the severity of disc degeneration was further analyzed using correlation analysis and logistic regression models. Furthermore, the predictive capacity of the NLR for lumbar disc degeneration was assessed using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

We found a significant positive correlation between high NLR levels and severe disc degeneration. The high-score group exhibited a significantly higher NLR compared to the low-score group [2.63 (1.91–4.18) vs. 2.04 (1.38–2.74), respectively, p < 0.001]. Significant correlations were found between NLR and patient characteristics (including age, BMI, VAS, NSAIDs usage, hemoglobin) and the cumulative grading. Logistic regression analysis identified age and NLR as independent predictors of the severity of disc degeneration. The ROC curve analysis demonstrated a good predictive capability of NLR for lumbar disc degeneration.

Conclusion

NLR could serve as a promising biomarker for assessing the severity of lumbar disc degeneration and offer potential benefits in both early diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Patient satisfaction and associated factors in Addis Ababa’s public referral hospitals: insights from 2023
Authors: Abebe Dawit , Mesfin Sinetibeb , Kenea Luna Abebe , Alemayehu Yosef , Andarge Kostr , Aleme Temsegen
Published: October 2024

Background

Currently, patient satisfaction is a major concern in the healthcare system of Ethiopia. Patient satisfaction with nursing care is considered an important factor in explaining patients’ service quality. Satisfied patients are more likely to have a good relationship with nurses, which suggests improved quality of care.

Objective

To assess the prevalence of patient satisfaction and its associated factors among admitted patients in Addis Ababa city public referral hospitals, Ethiopia 2023.

Methods and materials

An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 471 randomly selected patients from June 1 to July 30, 2023. Interviewer-administered a structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Patient satisfaction was measured by using the Newcastle Nursing Care Satisfaction Scale. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify the factors associated with patient satisfaction.

Result

471 participants responded among 506 selected patients yielding a response rate of 93%. The satisfaction of patients was 47.8% (95% CI = 42.9, 52.2%) Multiple logistic regression showed that participants aged 26–35 were less likely to be satisfied with nursing care [AOR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.56]. In contrast, those in the surgical ward [AOR = 3.85, 95% CI: 1.98, 7.45] and ophthalmology ward [AOR = 4.27, 95% CI: 1.81, 10.05] were more satisfied. No previous admission [AOR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.26], having no comorbidities [AOR = 13.4, 95% CI: 7.06, 25.4], and shorter admission duration [AOR = 9.14, 95% CI: 3.46, 24.11] were found to be factors with a significant association with patient nursing satisfaction.

Conclusion

Overall, just under one in every two admitted patients were satisfied, indicating areas for potential improvement in nursing care. Specific factors such as patients in the age range of 26 to 35 reported significantly lower levels of satisfaction, whereas patients in the surgical and ophthalmology wards, as well as those without comorbidities and with shorter hospital stays, reported significantly higher levels of satisfaction. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted strategies to enhance nursing care.
Elevated hematologic ratios are correlated with acne severity: a national, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wiesel Vered , Weissmann Sarah , Cohen Bracha , Golan-Tripto Inbal , Horev Amir
Published: October 2024

Background

Prior studies demonstrated conflicting results regarding hematologic ratios in acne patients. We sought to further characterize hematologic ratios in acne patients, according to demographics and acne severity.

Methods

National, retrospective cohort study of 122,822 patients using medical records from 2005 to 2024 of patients insured with the largest public healthcare organization in Israel, Clalit Health Maintenance Organization.

Results

Moderate–severe acne patients had higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) than mild acne patients at diagnosis and 12–18 months before diagnosis. A multivariable regression confirmed the significance of the correlation of increased NLR and PLR with acne severity. Adults and females had higher NLR and PLR than children and males, respectively, at diagnosis, and 12–18 months before diagnosis.

Conclusion

Acne severity was significantly associated with elevated NLR and PLR. NLR and PLR may also serve as indicators of upcoming acne severity, as they were elevated 12–18 months before diagnosis. These biomarkers may contribute to the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of patients with acne.
Unraveling the regional environmental ecology dominated baijiu fermentation microbial community succession and associated unique flavor
Authors: Wu Xiaowei , Zhao Xiaoli , Wang Li , Chen Bi , Li Fangzhou , Tang Zhi , Wu Fengchang
Published: October 2024

Chinese baijiu as one of the famous distilled liquor in which fermented in open environments, with various microorganisms (i.e., bacteria, fungi, and yeast) involved in their brewing process, and created corresponding unique flavor. However, the sources of environmentally enriched microbial communities associated with liquor fermentation are still being characterized yet. Given the dependence of microbial growth and reproduction on environmental ecology, it is important to understand the correlation between baijiu fermentation microbial community and surrounding environmental ecology (i.e., temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation). This study systematically overviewed the sources of microorganisms in the Jiang-flavor-Baijiu fermentation system. The results showed that microorganisms in baijiu brewing (i.e., mold, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast) mainly originated from surrounding environmental matrices, including the air (i.e., Yeast, Streptomyces and Bacillus), soil (i.e., Xanthomonas, Methanococcus and Comamonas) and water (i.e., Flavobacterium, Acinetobacter, and Pseudomonas) via atmospheric transport, raw material transfer and surface runoff. In addition, the unique baijiu fermentation microbial community diversity depends on local geology and meteorological conditions, highlighting that the structural stability and diversity of the microorganisms in the Baijiu brewing process dominated by local environmental ecology. We also explored the regional environmental conditions on the microbial community and found that the unique Jiang-flavor-Baijiu fermentation microbial community diversity depends on local geology and meteorological conditions. The Jiang-flavor-Baijiu workshop is located in the basin of the middle-and low latitude mountainous areas, with sufficient solar irradiation and rainfall, high air humidity, and low wind speed that favor the growth and propagation of Baijiu fermentation microorganisms. Therefore, the obtained conclusions provide new insights unraveling the key factor controlling the unique flavor of Chinese Baijiu, where protecting the ecology of baijiu brewing-regions is fundamental for maintaining the long-term quality of baijiu.
Autophagy-lysosomal pathway impairment and cathepsin dysregulation in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Mançano Alquiandra Stefani Ferreira , Pina Juliana Guanaes , Froes Bruna Rojas , Sciani Juliana Mozer
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by neuronal loss, attributed to amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation and accumulation. The autophagy-lysosomal pathway, including cathepsins B and D, is crucial for protein degradation and clearance, but it is impaired in some diseases. This review summarizes current knowledge on the dysregulation of this pathway in AD. Accumulating evidence suggests that Aβ overload impairs autophagy-lysosomal function and cathepsin activity, exacerbating Aβ accumulation and neurodegeneration. However, the precise mechanisms underlying these interactions remain elusive. Despite these challenges, targeting the lysosomal pathway emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy, and a comprehensive understanding of the autophagy-lysosomal system is essential to develop effective interventions for AD.
A multimodal educational robots driven via dynamic attention
Authors: Jianliang An
Published: October 2024

Introduction

With the development of artificial intelligence and robotics technology, the application of educational robots in teaching is becoming increasingly popular. However, effectively evaluating and optimizing multimodal educational robots remains a challenge.

Methods

This study introduces Res-ALBEF, a multimodal educational robot framework driven by dynamic attention. Res-ALBEF enhances the ALBEF (Align Before Fuse) method by incorporating residual connections to align visual and textual data more effectively before fusion. In addition, the model integrates a VGG19-based convolutional network for image feature extraction and utilizes a dynamic attention mechanism to dynamically focus on relevant parts of multimodal inputs. Our model was trained using a diverse dataset consisting of 50,000 multimodal educational instances, covering a variety of subjects and instructional content.

Results and discussion

The evaluation on an independent validation set of 10,000 samples demonstrated significant performance improvements: the model achieved an overall accuracy of 97.38% in educational content recognition. These results highlight the model's ability to improve alignment and fusion of multimodal information, making it a robust solution for multimodal educational robots.
Comparison between 1.5 and 3-Tesla MRI findings in Ménière’s disease
Authors: Duarte Juliana Antoniolli , Garcia Marcio Ricardo Taveira , Souza Soraia Ale , Monsanto Rafael da Costa , Sarpi Maira de Oliveira , Juliano Amy , Gananca Fernando Freitas
Published: October 2024

Introduction

3 T-MRI of the inner ear has been used to identify the endolymphatic hydrops (EH) phenomenon, and less frequently 1.5 T-MRI. The aim of this study was to assess whether there was agreement between findings of EH at 1.5 T MRI and those obtained at 3.0 T MRI in patients clinically diagnosed with definite Meniere disease (MD).

Methods

Cross-sectional, blinded study was conducted in a tertiary neurotology ambulatory practice. Thirty patients with clinical diagnosis of unilateral definite MD was included. Two MRI exams (1.5 T and 3.0 T) were performed for each patient and were evaluated by two examiners (E1, E2) who were blinded to the symptomatic ear. An analysis of intra-and inter-examiner agreement was performed. It was determined whether there was an association between MRI findings and disease duration, symptom severity, and MD clinical stage.

Results

E1 found EH at 3 T-MRI in 26 (86.66%) patients and at 1.5 T-MRI in 25 (83.33%). E2 found EH in 25 (83.33%) patients in 3 T-MRI and in 22 (73.33%) at 1.5 T-MRI. The agreement between the examiners’ assessments in relation to the EH was high (0.844) for the 3 T MRI and substantial for the 1.5 T, both statistically significant. There was no statistically significant relationship between EH imaging findings and clinical disease severity and course.

Discussion

1.5 T and 3.0 T MRI images agreed regarding the findings of absence or presence of cochlear hydrops (CH) and vestibular hydrops (VH). The degrees of CH and VH found at 3.0 T MRI in symptomatic ear were not associated with clinical aspects and the stage of disease.
Association between dietary patterns and the prognosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Xun , Huang Yuwei , Zhu Yue , Jin Qingwen
Published: October 2024

Background

Recently, a growing number of studies have specifically examined the impact of dietary variables on the development and progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between different dietary patterns and Chinese ALS patients’ prognosis.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted by recruiting 590 patients with ALS who attended and were regularly followed at hospitals in Nanjing from 2016 to 2023. Nutrient intake was calculated using dietary information collected through the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and patients were divided into a control group and special diet groups, including a high-calorie group (HC), a high-protein group (HP), and a ketogenic diet group (KD), based on their specific intake. And used the Kaplan-Meier product limiting distribution to compare the time required to transition between phases of different dietary patterns and to estimate cumulative survival probabilities.

Results

Patients in the HP had a better nutritional status. And the disease progression rate (ΔFS) was significantly associated with dietary patterns, with the KD group having the lowest ΔFS. Meanwhile, special diets extended the survival time of stage 4 patients but had no effect on the overall survival of the disease.

Conclusion

A special diet can be one of effective options for patients with advanced ALS. Patients with poor nutritional status may choose the HP diet, whereas those with underlying conditions should consider the ketogenic diet with caution.
Circulating fatty acids, genetic susceptibility and hypertension: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Lu Lingling , Gu Xiaoli , Yang Daheng , Wang Bingjian , Long Guangfeng
Published: October 2024

Background

Combining genetic risk factors and plasma fatty acids (FAs) can be used as an effective method of precision medicine to prevent hypertension risk.

Methods

A total of 195,250 participants in the UK Biobank cohort were included in this study from 2006–2010. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) were calculated for hypertension using single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Concentrations of plasma FAs, including polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and saturated fatty acids (SFAs), were tested by nuclear magnetic resonance. The Cox model was used to test for the main effects of PRS, different plasma FAs and their joint effects on hypertension. Relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI) and the attributable proportion due to interaction (AP) were used to test the additive interaction.

Results

Plasma PUFAs, n-3 PUFAs, MUFAs and SFAs were related to the risk of hypertension (PUFAs: HR, 0.878; 95% CI, 0.868–0.888; MUFAs: HR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.123–1.150; SFAs: HR, 1.086; 95% CI, 1.074–1.098; n-3 PUFAs: HR, 0.984; 95% CI, 0.973–0.995). Moreover, an additive interaction was found between PRS and plasma FAs, which could contribute to an approximately 10–18% risk of hypertension, and the associations between high plasma MUFAs and a high PRS of hypertension were the strongest positive [RERI: 0.178 (95% CI: 0.062, 0.294), AP: 0.079 (95% CI: 0.027, 0.130)].

Conclusion

Increased plasma MUFAs or SFAs and decreased plasma PUFAs or n-3 PUFAs were associated with hypertension risk, especially among people at high genetic risk.
Retroperitoneal bronchogenic cyst: a case report and literature review
Authors: Jiang Bohao , Xie Tiantian , Hu Jiyuan , Xu Yitong , Zhang Hao
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Retroperitoneal bronchogenic cyst, typically situated in the subdiaphragmatic region, is a rare congenital benign developmental abnormality arising from dysplasia of the foregut and abnormal budding of the tracheobronchial tree. Due to its low incidence, there are limited reports regarding this condition.

Case presentation

Four retroperitoneal bronchogenic cysts near the left adrenal gland were identified without accompanying clinical symptoms. One case was misdiagnosed as an adrenal tumor prior to surgery, while the others were diagnosed as retroperitoneal cysts of uncertain origin. All cases underwent surgical resection, with three being performed laparoscopically and one utilizing robot-assisted techniques. Pathological reports confirmed the diagnosis of bronchogenic cyst in each instance. The prognosis was favorable for all four patients, with no complications or recurrences observed. Additionally, a literature review was conducted, encompassing 82 cases, which revealed similar characteristics and radiological manifestations in the majority of cases.

Conclusion

Although retroperitoneal bronchogenic cysts are rare developmental malformations lacking distinctive clinical and radiological features, reported cases exhibit similarities in certain clinical and imaging characteristics. This report offers additional insights into the diagnosis and management of this rare disease. Future reports are essential to enhance understanding of this disease.
Association between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and attention among children aged 6–12 years: chain mediating effects of fundamental movement skills and aerobic fitness
Authors: Wu Haitan , Wang Xidong , Jin Zhangyi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To explore the association between physical activity and attention among children aged 6–12 years and to determine whether fundamental movement skills and aerobic fitness mediate the association between physical activity and attention.

Methods

A total of 1,086 school-aged children (mean age: 9.40 ± 2.03 years) were included in the present study. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Scale-Short Form. Fundamental movement skills were assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Development, third edition, and aerobic fitness was evaluated using the 20-metre shuttle run. Attention was assessed by the d2 Attention Test.

Results

There were significant positive correlations between physical activity and fundamental movement skills, physical activity and aerobic fitness, and physical activity and attention (all p < 0.05). Both fundamental movement skills and aerobic fitness fully mediated the relationship between physical activity and attention. In addition, fundamental movement skills and aerobic fitness had chain-mediating effects on the relationship between physical activity and attention.

Conclusion

High levels of physical activity were positively associated with attention among school-aged children. Fundamental movement skills and aerobic fitness played a chain-mediating role in the relationship between physical activity and attention.
Littoral cell angioma of a huge spleen with peripheral blood pancytopenia in a 14-year-old boy: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gao Tianyu , Wang Xingang , Wei Qiuya , Wang Chen , Fan Yong , Wang Yuebin
Published: October 2024

Background

Splenic littoral cell angioma (LCA) is an exceptionally uncommon malignant potential vascular tumor with infrequent occurrences in pediatric patients. Due to its reliance on histopathological analysis for diagnosis, LCA may be mistakenly identified as other splenic tumors. Patients with LCA may experience anemia or thrombocytopenia, but peripheral blood pancytopenia is infrequent.

Case report

A 14-year-old boy presented with peripheral blood pancytopenia, necessitating hospitalization after splenomegaly was identified during a physical examination. Following the exclusion of hematological disorders, a splenectomy was conducted; histopathological examination confirmed the diagnoses of LCA. No metastases or recurrences were observed during the 8-month follow-up. To the best of our knowledge, this case represents the first instance of LCA associated with pancytopenia in a pediatric patient.

Conclusion

LCA can lead to iron-deficiency anemia or thrombocytopenia, with rare occurrences of pancytopenia, potentially resulting in misdiagnosis as a hematological disorder. Surgical intervention remains an effective treatment for LCA.
Revealing the dynamic changes of metabolites and molecular mechanisms of chlorogenic acid accumulation during the leaf development of Vaccinium dunalianum based on multi-omic analyses
Authors: Zhang Anmian , Liu Jiaxin , Li Weicheng , Yang Lihong , Duan Wenjin , Zhao Ping , Pu Zhiyu , Ding Yong
Published: October 2024

Vaccinium dunalianum, a medicinal plant, is utilized for Quezui Tea production from its leaf buds and young leaves. Despite prior research on V. dunalianum revealing several medicinal compounds, the comprehensive variations in metabolites during its growth and development, along with the molecular mechanisms underlying high chlorogenic acid (CGA) yield, remain unclear. Through a joint analysis of transcriptomics and proteomics, our study first identified 15 key structural genes and 3 transcription factors influencing CGA biosynthesis in V. dunalianum, offering new evidence to understand its regulatory network. Furthermore, non-targeted metabolomics analysis provides the first extensive report on the metabolic profile of V. dunalianum, furnishing a valuable dataset for deeper exploration of its nutritional and medicinal value, and the development of a quality evaluation system for its product Quezui Tea. This study offers the most comprehensive molecular information on V. dunalianum, marking a significant step toward understanding and enhancing the plant’s potential for medicinal and nutritional applications. Additionally, this study also reveals V. dunalianum holds promise as a natural antioxidant source for functional foods, providing data support for network pharmacology.
Genome-wide characterization and evolution analysis of miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements in Barley (Hordeum vulgare)
Authors: Li Ruiying , Yao Ju , Cai Shaoshuai , Fu Yi , Lai Chongde , Zhu Xiangdong , Cui Licao , Li Yihan
Published: October 2024

Miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements (MITEs) constitute a class of class II transposable elements (TEs) that are abundant in plant genomes, playing a crucial role in their evolution and diversity. Barley (Hordeum vulgare), the fourth-most important cereal crop globally, is widely used for brewing, animal feed, and human consumption. However, despite their significance, the mechanisms underlying the insertion or amplification of MITEs and their contributions to barley genome evolution and diversity remain poorly understood. Through our comprehensive analysis, we identified 32,258 full-length MITEs belonging to 2,992 distinct families, accounting for approximately 0.17% of the barley genome. These MITE families can be grouped into four well-known superfamilies (Tc1/Mariner-like, PIF/Harbinger-like, hAT-like, and Mutator-like) and one unidentified superfamily. Notably, we observed two major expansion events in the barley MITE population, occurring approximately 12-13 million years ago (Mya) and 2-3 Mya. Our investigation revealed a strong preference of MITEs for gene-related regions, particularly in promoters, suggesting their potential involvement in regulating host gene expression. Additionally, we discovered that 7.73% miRNAs are derived from MITEs, thereby influencing the origin of certain miRNAs and potentially exerting a significant impact on post-transcriptional gene expression control. Evolutionary analysis demonstrated that MITEs exhibit lower conservation compared to genes, consistent with their dynamic mobility. We also identified a series of MITE insertions or deletions associated with domestication, highlighting these regions as promising targets for crop improvement strategies. These findings significantly advance our understanding of the fundamental characteristics and evolutionary patterns of MITEs in the barley genome. Moreover, they contribute to our knowledge of gene regulatory networks and provide valuable insights for crop improvement endeavors.
Effects of short video addiction on college students’ physical activity: the chain mediating role of self-efficacy and procrastination
Authors: Zhao Zhe , Kou Yali
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Excessive use of short video applications can adversely affect the physical and mental health of college students. At present, regarding the effect of short video addiction on physical exercise, few scholars have studied the mechanism of action. This study aims to investigate the mechanism by which short video addiction impacts college students’ physical exercise. Therefore, we investigated the correlation between short video addiction and physical activity, and examined the influence of self-efficacy and procrastination on this relationship.

Methods

In this research, 304 college students were selected as survey subjects. The questionnaires included Short Video Addiction Scale, Physical Activity Rating Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale, and Short Version General Procrastination Scale. The data underwent correlation analysis using SPSS and mediation effect analysis using the PROCESS macro program.

Results

(1) 61.51% (187) of college students’ physical activity was low exercise. (2) Physical activity was significantly negatively impacted by short video addiction. (3) Self-efficacy played an independent mediating role in the association between short video addiction and physical activity. (4) The association between short video addiction and physical activity was independently mediated by procrastination. (5) Self-efficacy and procrastination function as chain mediators in the association between short video addiction and physical activity.

Discussion

Our research identifies the role that self-efficacy and procrastination play in the connection between short video addiction and physical activity. Decreasing the utilization of short video applications and enhancing self-efficacy can reduce procrastination and improve physical activity for college student groups.
Implementing a stabilizing intervention for traumatized refugees in temporary accommodations in South-West Germany - a randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Rzepka Irja , Zehetmair Catharina , Nagy Ede , Friederich Hans-Christoph , Nikendei Christoph
Published: October 2024

The prevalence of trauma-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as depressive or anxiety disorders, are significantly increased in refugees compared to the general population. This is due to the high risk of burdening and potentially traumatic experiences before, during and after their flight. However, the treatment options for these mental illnesses are significantly limited due to the legal uncertainties surrounding the asylum procedure as well as language and cultural barriers. In this study, a randomized controlled pilot trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness of self-applied audio-based mindfulness and guided imagery techniques for refugees with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder living in temporary accommodations. The symptom burden of PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptoms, as well as perceived stress and emotional state was assessed using the PC-PTSD-5, PHQ-4, Self-Assessment Manikin, and Stress Thermometer. N=32 refugees were included in the intervention study, n=24 participants completed the study. The audio-based mindfulness and guided imagery techniques were presented to n =17 refugees in the intervention group between T1 and T2 over 4 weeks; n=15 refugees from the waiting list control group received the audio-files 6 weeks after follow-up. Efficacy was evaluated using a mixed analysis of variance. There were no significant changes in the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety disorder. Moreover, no changes were observed in the level of perceived stress or emotional state. Only few participants used the exercises in self-administered application during the study period. This was mainly due to the stressors of the post-migratory phase, such as job search or worries about residence status. Due to the self-administered nature of the intervention, common factors, such as therapeutic alliance or expectations regarding the intervention’s effectiveness, had minimal influence and did not contribute to the sustained use of the exercises. Additionally, regarding the life circumstances of refugees in temporary shelters, the intervention intensity may not have been sufficient to have a significant impact on the examined symptom burden. Small sample size and limited use of the exercises limit the reliability of the results.

Clinical trial registration

https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00022862 Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien identifier, DRKS00022862.
Oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among female public health and nutrition university students in Qatar
Authors: Elwadia Amal , Naeem Aisha , Veettil Shajitha Thekke , Orquia Nikki , Alsayed Hassan Diana , Amuna Paul , Daud Alaa
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The present study aimed to determine oral health (OH) related knowledge, attitudes, and practices among Public Health (PH) and Nutrition (NU) students at Qatar University.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pre-validated questionnaire comprising 36 items covering demographics, knowledge, attitudes and perception of oral health practices. Data were analyzed descriptively (means, standard deviations, proportions) and inferentially using statistical tests including t-tests for comparing means, and chi-square tests for examining associations between categorical variables.

Results

A total of 112 female undergraduate students participated, including 41 from PH and 71 from NU programs (response rate for both courses = 59.5%). The mean age was 21.8, while 23% were Qataris and 77% non-Qataris. Overall, students demonstrated good knowledge of OH (67.65%), with the PH group scoring higher (70.7%) than NU (65.35%). Knowledge regarding dental plaque was low for both groups (31.0%). Attitudes toward OH varied among participants. Most students reported practicing brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and demonstrated high knowledge regarding the association between poor OH and general health (95%).

Conclusion

Overall, PH and NU undergraduate students exhibited relatively good knowledge of OH, however, demonstrated a range of attitudes and practices, including suboptimal ones. Integration of OH education into the PH and NU curriculum is warranted, along with enhanced interprofessional education to promote self-awareness and improve patient oral health outcomes.
Analysis of Physicochemical Properties, Enzyme Activity, Microbial Diversity in Rhizosphere Soil of Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) Under Organic and Chemical Fertilizers, Irrigation Conditions
Authors: Lu Lilan , Tong Chaoqun , Liu Yingying , Yang Weibo
Published: October 2024

The application of chemical fertilizers and organic fertilizers, as well as irrigation, is an important agricultural practice that can increase crop yields and affect soil biogeochemical cycles. This study conducted coconut field experiments to investigate the effects of conventional fertilization (NCF), optimized fertilization (MCF), conventional fertilization + organic fertilizer (NOF), optimized fertilization + organic fertilizer (MOF), conventional fertilization + organic fertilizer + irrigation (NOFW), and optimized fertilization + organic fertilizer + irrigation (MOFW) treatments on soil physicochemical properties, soil enzyme activity, bacterial and fungal community structure and diversity, and compared the controls (CK, non-fertilizer and non-irrigation). The results showed that MOFW significantly increased soil electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), alkaline nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), available calcium (ACa), and available magnesium (AMg) levels. At the same time, it also significantly enhanced the activities of soil catalase (CE), polyphenol oxidase (POE), sucrase (SE), urease (UE), acid protease (APE), and acid phosphatase (APPE) (p < 0.05). The PCA analysis of soil microorganisms in the coconut rhizosphere soil showed indicated significant changes in bacteria and fungi community structure under fertilization treatments. The fertilization application leaded to an increase in the relative abundance and diversity of bacteria, but a decrease in fungi. Acidobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacterota were the dominant bacterial phyla, and Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Rozellomycota, and Mortierellomycota were the significant fungal phyla. Compared with CK, MOFW significantly increased the abundance of Acidobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Basidiomycota, and Mortierellomycota. Redundancy analysis (CCA) and Mantel test further revealed that pH, EC, OM, and AP were the main soil fertility factors driving changes in microbial communities. CE, SE, UE, APE, APPE were significantly correlated with microbial communities. Compared with NOFW, MOFW has a lower proportion of N, P, and K fertilizers in its fertilizer composition. The results indicated that MOFW can better improve the nutrient and enzyme status of the soil, which is a promising method for maintaining the balance of soil microorganisms in coconut orchards, and accordingly, reducing chemical fertilizers within a certain range can not only ensure consistency with conventional fertilizers, but also effectively improve soil conditions.
Screening of Physicochemical and Bioactive Traits of New Cherry Cultivars Obtained from the Cross of ‘Ambrunés’ × ‘Hudson’
Authors: Palomino-Vasco Mónica , López-Corrales Margarita , Bañuls Pablo , Bernalte María Josefa , Martín Alberto , Serradilla Manuel J.
Published: October 2024

Although the cherry already has an excellent bioactive profile, the implementation of breeding programs is a valuable tool to enhance it further. Thus, a breeding program was conducted on ‘Picota’ type cherries (the ‘Ambrunés’ cultivar, in particular) by crossing them with the ‘Hudson’ cultivar, with the primary aim of obtaining new cherry cultivars that enhance the overall quality traits of the parental cultivars, but above all that increase the concentration of phenolic compounds, which are of significant relevance to human health, providing greater added value for the consumer. The fruits obtained from new cultivars were tested for their physicochemical profiles, phenolic compounds profile, and antioxidant activity. The obtained data were statistically analyzed by applying ANOVA and hierarchical cluster analysis. After screening these data, three new cultivars were found that maintain the physicochemical profile of ‘Ambrunés’ but enhance their phenolic compound content and could, therefore, be interesting cultivars to be used as parents in new cross-breeding.
Study on the Process of Soil Clod Removal and Potato Damage in the Front Harvesting Device of Potato Combine Harvester
Authors: Li Zewen , Sun Wei , Wang Hucun , Wang Juanling , Simionescu Petru A.
Published: October 2024

To improve soil clod removal and reduce potato damage in potato combine harvesters, this study investigates the processes involved in soil clod removal and potato collisions within the bar-lift chain separation device of the harvester. It outlines the structure and working principles of the machine, theoretically analyzes the key dimensions of the digging device and potato–soil separation components, and derives specific structural parameters. A dynamic mathematical model of the bar-lift chain is established, from which the dynamic equations are formulated. The analysis identifies factors that influence the dynamic characteristics of the bar-lift chain. This study examines the working principles and separation performance of the potato–soil separation device, with a focus on the collision characteristics between potatoes and both the screen surface and the bars. Key factors such as the separation screen’s line speed, the harvester’s forward speed, and the tilt angle of the separation screen are considered. Simulations are performed using a coupling method based on the Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Multi-Body Dynamics (MBD). Through simulation experiments, the optimal parameter combinations for the potato–soil separation device are determined. The optimal working parameters are identified as a separation screen line speed of 1.25 m/s, a forward speed of 0.83 m/s, and a tilt angle of 25°. Field harvesting experiments indicate a potato loss rate of 1.8%, a damage rate of 1.2%, an impurity rate of 1.9%, a skin breakage rate of 2.1%, and a yield of 0.15–0.21 ha/h. All results meet national and industry standards. The findings of this research provide valuable theoretical references for simulating potato–soil separation in combine harvesters and optimizing the parameters of these devices. Future potential research will consider the automatic regulation of the excavation volume of the potato–soil mixture, aiming to achieve intelligent control of the potato–soil separation operation.
Feeding Strategies and Quality Assessments of Animal-Derived Products
Authors: Vlaicu Petru Alexandru , Untea Arabela Elena
Published: October 2024

Feeding strategies play an important role in animal production systems by directly influencing animal health, productivity, and the quality of animal-derived products (meat, eggs, and milk) [...]