bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collaborative governance in action: driving ecological sustainability in the Yangtze River basin
Authors: Xia Yue , Tian Ze , Ding Chenhui
Published: November 2024

Implementing a collaborative governance framework across administrative boundaries is crucial for preserving the Basin’s ecological integrity and mitigating institutional fragmentation. Based on 19 cases of inter-provincial collaborative governance of ecological environment in the Yangtze River Basin of China, this study uses the fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis method to explore the influencing factors and complex causal mechanism of the effect of inter-provincial collaborative governance. The results show that technology empowers relationship driving, institutions reinforce interactive driving, and internal and external interaction driving modes promote collaborative governance. Perceived factors are essential in motivating provinces to participate in collaborative governance. External factors play a hygienic role in collaborative governance, and internal factors play a motivated role. The roles of the two types of factors are separate but complementary. In view of this, government should attention to regional environmental concerns, ensuring consistent alignment of internal and external factors and fostering synergies to improve governance effectiveness.
AI-enabled pipeline for virus detection, validation, and SNP discovery from next-generation sequencing data
Authors: Ghorbani Abozar , Rostami Mahsa , Guzzi Pietro Hiram
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

The rapid and accurate detection of viruses and the discovery of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are critical for disease management and understanding viral evolution. This study presents a pipeline for virus detection, validation, and SNP discovery from next-generation sequencing (NGS) data. The pipeline processes raw sequencing data to identify viral sequences with high accuracy and sensitivity by integrating state-of-the-art bioinformatics tools with artificial intelligence.

Methods

Before aligning the reads to the reference genomes, quality control measures, and adapter trimming are performed to ensure the integrity of the data. Unmapped reads are subjected to de novo assembly to reveal novel viral sequences and genetic elements.

Results

The effectiveness of the pipeline is demonstrated by the identification of virus sequences, illustrating its potential for detecting known and emerging pathogens. SNP discovery is performed using a custom Python script that compares the entire population of sequenced viral reads to a reference genome. This approach provides a comprehensive overview of viral genetic diversity and identifies dominant variants and a spectrum of genetic variations.

Conclusion

The robustness of the pipeline is confirmed by the recovery of complete viral sequences, which improves our understanding of viral genomics. This research aims to develop an auto-bioinformatics pipeline for novel viral sequence discovery, in vitro validation, and SNPs using the Python (AI) language to understand viral evolution. This study highlights the synergy between traditional bioinformatics techniques and modern approaches, providing a robust tool for analyzing viral genomes and contributing to the broader field of viral genomics.
Sex discrepancies in cancer research: a systematic review of prospective and retrospective investigations in lung, melanoma, and colorectal cancers
Authors: Díaz Rosario Maria , Vélez-Morell Camille A. , Martinez Daniela V.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

According to the latest Cancer Statistics, colorectal, lung, and melanoma are three of the most common cancers that affect both males and females. While males have consistently had a higher incidence and mortality rate in all three types of cancers, females have been shown to have better outcomes. Sex discrepancies in cancer research can impact the efficacy and effectiveness of novel drugs and diagnostic tools. Study results may not accurately represent how the treatment or diagnostic tool performs in the underrepresented sex. To comprehensively assess sex representation in top non-sex-specific cancer research, this systematic review aims to identify if there is equal representation of males and females in colorectal, lung, and melanoma cancer research.

Methods

We explored retrospective and prospective clinical studies published in Pubmed from 2014 to 2023 to identify possible sex discrepancies in colorectal, lung, and melanoma cancer. MeSH terms were employed to retrieve relevant studies for each cancer type (colorectal, lung, melanoma). MeSH terms used include “lung cancer”, “melanoma”, and “colorectal cancer”, in combination with “trials”, “retrospective”, and “prospective”. Extracted data included study characteristics (author, year of publication), study design (prospective or retrospective), sample size, and the number of male and female participants.

Results

The complete study population consisted of 515,003 patients, of which 275,231 (53%) were males and 237,488 (46%) were females. Specifically, retrospective studies included a total of 302,974 patients with 163,473 (54%) of them identifying as male and 139,072 (46%) patients identifying as female. While prospective studies included a total of 212,029 patients with 111,758 (53%) of these being male and 98,416 (46%) being female. Overall, male representation in the studies included in this systematic review was higher than female representation.

Discussion

Disparities in representation were identified in colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma cancer studies underscoring the need for equitable inclusion of both sexes in cancer research to advance precision medicine and improve patient outcomes. Further exploration of the impact of sex, race, and socioeconomic status on study representation is warranted.
Immunogenicity assessment strategy for a chemically modified therapeutic protein in clinical development
Authors: Hagman Charlotte , Chasseigne Gaetan , Nelson Robert , Anlauff Florian , Kagan Mark , Goldfine Allison B. , Terszowski Grzegorz , Jadhav Maria
Published: November 2024

The clinical immunogenicity assessment for complex multidomain biological drugs is challenging due to multiple factors that must be taken into consideration. Here, we describe a strategy to overcome multiple bioanalytical challenges in order to assess anti-drug antibodies (ADA) for a novel and unique chemically modified protein therapeutic. A risk-centered approach was adopted to evaluate the immunogenic response to a modified version of human growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) connected to an albumin-binding fatty acid via a polyethylene glycol (PEG) linker. Key steps include monitoring anti-drug antibodies (ADAs), using a standard tiered approach of screening and confirmation. To deepen our understanding of ADA response, as a third tier of immunogenicity assessment, novel extensive characterization using a set of assays was developed, validated, and used routinely in clinical sample analysis. This characterization step included performance of titration, mapping of ADA response including anti-GDF15 and anti-PEG–fatty-acid antibody characterization, and assessment of the neutralizing anti-drug antibodies (NAbs) using cell-based assays for immunogenicity in parallel. The analytical methods were applied during two clinical trials involving both healthy volunteers and overweight or obese patients. We observed low incident rates for ADA and no ADAs against the PEG linker with fatty acid conjugation. In one of the clinical studies, we identified neutralizing ADAs. The proposed novel strategy of extensive characterization proved effective for monitoring the presence of ADAs and NAbs and can be used to support clinical development of a broad range of chemically modified proteins and multidomain biotherapeutics.
Comparison of differences in immune cells and immune microenvironment among different kinds of oncolytic virus treatments
Authors: Wu Xiaoke , Fang Shaokuan
Published: November 2024

Oncolytic viruses are either naturally occurring or genetically engineered viruses that can activate immune cells and selectively replicate in and destroy cancer cells without damaging healthy tissues. Oncolytic virus therapy (OVT) represents an emerging treatment approach for cancer. In this review, we outline the properties of oncolytic viruses and then offer an overview of the immune cells and tumor microenvironment (TME) across various OVTs. A thorough understanding of the immunological mechanisms involved in OVTs could lead to the identification of novel and more effective therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
Pressure-tolerant survival mechanism of Schizophyllum commune 20R-7-F01 isolated from deep sediments 2 kilometers below the seafloor
Authors: Zhao Mengshi , Li Dongxu , Liu Jie , Fang Jiasong , Liu Changhong
Published: November 2024

In anaerobic high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) sedimentary environments below the seafloor, fungi are found to dominate the eukaryotic communities, playing crucial ecological roles. However, the specific mechanisms by which fungi adapt to anaerobic HHP environments remain unclear. In this study, we investigated Schizophyllum commune 20R-7-F01 isolated from coal-bearing sediments at a depth of 2 km below the seafloor. By assessing the cell viability, biomass, and cell wall thickness changes of strain 20-7-1 under different HHP conditions, we observed that, compared to 0.1 MPa, strain 20-7-1 exhibited slower growth rates and decreased cell viability at 15 MPa and 35 MPa, yet demonstrated significant pressure tolerance. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that this strain activated the carbohydrate metabolic process to simultaneously utilize ethanol and lactic acid fermentation pathway. Additionally, it activates the oxidoreductase activity and hydrolase activity pathways to detoxify intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Activation of the metal ion binding pathway increases the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids in the cell membrane, while instigation of the integral component of membrane pathway maintains cell wall structural stability. Furthermore, activation of the DNA repair pathway repairs DNA damage, demonstrating its comprehensive adaptive mechanisms against the HHP stress. These research findings deepen our understanding of fungal survival strategies and adaptation mechanisms in extreme environments, laying the groundwork for further exploration of their roles in cycling of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and other elements in the deep biosphere.
2D heterostructures of graphene oxide and MoS2 to improve sensitivity performance of flexible pressure sensor with shell biological structure
Authors: Hu Zheyu , Zhang Dabing , Zhou Yuning
Published: November 2024

Inspired by the multilayer structure of the shellfish, a novel two-dimensional (2D) composite structure consisting of graphene oxide, MoS2 and graphene oxide (G/M/G) was integrated to the flexible pressure sensing. The composite structure was prepared by the vacuum suction filtration in order to imitate the high toughness of shellfish. Based on the strategy of strain engineering, a comprehensive experimental bench capable of meeting different strain conditions was connected to a push–pull meter and an LCR digital bridge, and then a computer was used to record the changes in transducer capacitance when an external load was applied to the meter. Graphene oxide (GO) and G/M/G supercells were constructed, and density functional theory (DFT) simulations of the initial energy band structure under strain-free conditions were carried out to determine the relationship between the band gap, conductivity, capacitance, and sensitivity of the G/M/G structure based on band gap theory, and to easily understand the mechanism of the shellfish heterostructure leading to enhanced sensitivity of the sensors. Using two-point bending and axial tensile tests, a flexible pressure sensing device was designed to realize positive strains in the ranges of 0%–5 % and 5%–50 %. The results show that the sensitivity of both GO and G/M/G capacitive pressure sensors decreased with increased strain, and the sensitivity of the G/M/G sensors was significantly improved by 75%–102 % compared to the GO sensors at the same strain. The parallel-plate capacitor model and crack growth theory well explain the experimental results at small and large strains. Our results provide new concepts for the design of novel flexible sonar with high sensitivity and large strain operating range by a simple vacuum filtration method, which can be extended to the design of other high-performance 2D flexible electronic devices.
Effect of traditional Chinese Yijinjing exercise on hand dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chang Tian , Ma Xieli , Gong Xun , Xia Congmin , Jiang Quan , Zhang Rouman
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients often experience significant hand dysfunction. Yijinjing, a traditional Chinese exercise, has been recognized for its benefits to mind–body health. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Yijinjing in improving hand dysfunction among individuals with RA.

Methods

This research was conducted as a single-center, outcome-blinded, randomized controlled trial. A total of 66 eligible RA participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the Yijinjing exercise group (YJJG) with sessions conducted three times per week over a 12-week period or the control group (CG), which maintained ordinary activities. Various outcomes were assessed, including the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), handgrip strength, active range of motion (AROM), RA disease activity, the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), levels of anxiety and depression, and wrist ultrasound, all of which were collected at baseline and the week 12.

Results

At the end of the 12 weeks, the YJJG demonstrated significant improvements in MHQ scores compared to the CG (p < 0.05), alongside enhancements in handgrip strength and AROM, specifically in wrist extension, radial deviation, and metacarpophalangeal flexion (p < 0.05). Wrist ultrasound scores did not exhibit a significant increase in the YJJG, meaning no inflammation aggravation (p > 0.05). Additionally, morning stiffness duration, Disease Activity Score 28-ESR (DAS28-ESR), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels showed significant improvement in the YJJG (p < 0.05). Both groups reported enhancements in quality of life, as well as reductions in anxiety and depression scores, with the YJJG displaying greater improvements overall (p < 0.05). Importantly, no adverse events or significant abnormalities in vital signs were observed in either group.

Conclusion

Yijinjing exercise may effectively enhance hand function, handgrip strength, and flexibility in RA patients with low disease activity. Furthermore, it appears to improve quality of life and reduce anxiety and depression without exacerbating joint inflammation.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05527158, Identifier NCT05527158.
Posterior mediastinal extralobar pulmonary sequestration in a neonate with pulmonary artery supply: a case report
Authors: Mao Kaiyi , Wang Leibo , Mao Yuchen , Shang Xianhui , Zhou Guangxu , Zhao Peng , Wang Cao , Ma Hong
Published: November 2024

This paper reports a rare case of extralobar pulmonary sequestration in the posterior mediastinum of a neonate with arterial supply from the pulmonary artery. A 3-day-old male neonate was diagnosed with type II congenital pulmonary airway malformation after prenatal color Doppler ultrasonography showed a lesion with blood supply from the pulmonary artery in the left lung. Post-birth chest computed tomography(CT) showed that the lesion was located in the posterior mediastinum with low density change, mild stripe enhancement after contrast, and no obvious blood supply vessels. A neurogenic tumor was considered for the preoperative diagnosis. The mass was removed by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. During the surgery, the mass was observed to be a dark red solid lump with a feeding vessel originating from the pulmonary artery. The postoperative histopathological diagnosis was extralobar pulmonary sequestration. Combined with the preoperative imaging results, it was considered that the nourishing vessels might have intermittent torsion. The patient recovered well after surgery, and no recurrence was observed after 6 months of follow-up. Therefore, the possibility of extralobar pulmonary sequestration cannot be ruled out for posterior mediastinal masses that are not supplied by the descending aorta or without identified feeding vessels.
Microbial enzymatic indices for predicting composting quality of recalcitrant lignocellulosic substrates
Authors: El Fels Loubna , Naylo Ahmed , Jemo Martin , Zrikam Nidal , Boularbah Ali , Ouhdouch Yedir , Hafidi Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Three different enzymes alkaline phosphatase, Urease and Dehydrogenase were measured during this study to monitor the organic matter dynamics during semi-industrial composting of mixture A with 1/3 sludge+2/3 palm waste and mixture B with ½ sludge+1/2 palm waste. The phosphatase activity was higher for Mix-A (398.7 µg PNP g−1 h−1) than Mix-B (265.3 µg PNP g−1 h−1), while Mix-B (103.3 µg TPF g−1d−1) exhibited greater dehydrogenase content than Mix-A (72.3 µg TPF g−1 d−1). That could contribute to the dynamic change of microbial activity together with high amounts of carbonaceous substrates incorporated with the lignocellulosic. The gradual increase in the dehydrogenase from the compost Mix-A implies that high lignocellulosic substrate requires gradual buildup of dehydrogenase activity to turn the waste into mature compost. A higher pick of urease with a maximum activity of 151.5 and 122.4 µg NH4-N g−1 h−1 were reported, respectively for Mix-A and B. Temperature and pH could also influence the expression of enzyme activity during composting. The machine learning well predicted the compost quality based on NH3/NO3, C/N ratio, decomposition rate and, humification index (HI). The root mean square error (RMSE) values were 1.98, 1.95, 4.61%, and 4.1 for NH+3/NO−3, C/N ratio, decomposition rate, and HI, respectively. The coefficient of determination between observed and predicted values were 0.87, 0.93, 0.89, and 0.94, for the r NH3/NO3, C/N ratio, decomposition rate, and HI. Urease activity significantly predicted the C/N ratio and HI only. The profile of enzymatic activity is tightly linked to the physico-chemical properties, proportion of lignocellulosic-composted substrates. Enzymatic activity assessment provides a simple and rapid measurement of the biological activity adding understunding of organic matter transformation during sludge-lignocellulosic composting.
Effect of intake of selected nutrients on skin firmness and elasticity in women
Authors: Podgórska Aleksandra , Kicman Aleksandra , Naliwajko Sylwia , Wacewicz-Muczyńska Marta , Niczyporuk Marek
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The proper functioning of the skin is influenced by a proper diet. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of selected nutrients on selected skin parameters.

Methods

The study group included 59 women, who were divided into two age groups (under and over 40  years old). A three-day 24-h dietary interview was conducted among the study women and skin parameters were assessed using the Courage + Khazaka method.

Results

The results showed LA, ALA, Dietary fiber, Na, K, Mg, Zn, Cu, Vitamin E, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Folates, Vitamins B6, B12 and C correlated with skin elasticity. On the other hand, skin elasticity is influenced exclusively by vitamin D acted on skin firmness.

Conclusion

The results obtained indicate that a diet rich in appropriate nutrients has a positive effect on the proper maintenance of important skin parameters.
The biochemical effects of carotenoids in orange carrots on the colonic proteome in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity
Authors: Balbuena Emilio , Milhem Fadia , Kiremitci Buse Zeren , Williams Taufika Islam , Collins Leonard , Shu Qingbo , Eroglu Abdulkerim
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Carotenoids are naturally occurring pigments in plants and are responsible for the orange, yellow, and red color of fruits and vegetables. Carrots are one of the primary dietary sources of carotenoids. The biological activities of carotenoids in higher organisms, including their immunomodulatory activities, are well documented in most tissues but not the large intestine. The gastrointestinal barrier acts as a line of defense against the systemic invasion of pathogenic bacteria, especially at the colonic level.

Methods

To test whether carotenoids in orange carrots can alleviate obesity-associated gut inflammation and strengthen the intestinal barrier function, male C57BL/6J mice were randomized to one of four experimental diets for 20 weeks (n = 20 animals/group): Low-fat diet (LFD, 10% calories from fat), high-fat diet (HFD, 45% calories from fat), HFD with white carrot powder (HFD+WC), or HFD with orange carrot powder (HFD + OC). Colon tissues were harvested to analyze the biochemical effects of carotenoids in carrots. The distal sections were subjected to isobaric labeling-based quantitative proteomics in which tryptic peptides were labeled with tandem mass tags, followed by fractionation and LC-MS/MS analysis in an Orbitrap Eclipse Tribrid instrument.

Results

High-performance liquid chromatography results revealed that the HFD+WC pellets were carotenoid-deficient, and the HFD+OC pellets contained high concentrations of provitamin A carotenoids, specifically α-carotene and β-carotene. As a result of the quantitative proteomics, a total of 4410 differentially expressed proteins were identified. Intestinal barrier-associated proteins were highly upregulated in the HFD+OC group, particularly mucin-2 (MUC-2). Upon closer investigation into mucosal activity, other proteins related to MUC-2 functionality and tight junction management were upregulated by the HFD+OC dietary intervention.

Discussion

Collectively, our findings suggest that carotenoid-rich foods can prevent high-fat diet-induced intestinal barrier disruption by promoting colonic mucus synthesis and secretion in mammalian organisms. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD054150.
Association between dietary consumption of multiple vitamins and age-related macular degeneration: a cross-sectional observational study in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2008
Authors: Liu Zhao , Wang Qiuyuan , Li Lu , Cai ShanJun
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the common causes of blindness in the elderly worldwide. Its prevention and monitoring indicators remain a key area of research. This study aims to examine the association between vitamin intake and AMD prevalence.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2008 were used for cross-sectional analysis. Logistic regression models, subgroup analyses and multicollinearity regression were employed to assess the association between vitamin intake and AMD.

Results

A total of 1,627 participants were included, with 54.5% (weighted) males and 45.5% (weighted) females. Significant differences were observed in the intake of vitamins B (B1, B2, B6, and B12), E, and folic acid between the AMD and Non-AMD groups. The Non-AMD group had higher average intakes (weighted) of vitamin B1 (1.71 ± 1.10 vs. 1.37 ± 0.64), B2 (2.42 ± 1.22 vs. 1.86 ± 0.70), B6 (2.05 ± 1.25 vs. 1.71 ± 0.85), B12 (5.73 ± 6.18 vs. 4.54 ± 3.27), E (7.93 ± 5.47 vs. 6.39 ± 2.86), and folic acid (181.87 ± 178.04 vs. 140.72 ± 124.60). Logistic regression and subgroup analyses further supported these findings.

Conclusion

This study found that higher vitamin intakes B and E were associated with a lower prevalence of AMD in the U.S. population. Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins B and E, particularly B2 (eggs, green vegetables, meat, mushrooms, and almonds) may help to reduce vision loss due to AMD. However, since this is a cross-sectional study, causal associations between vitamin intake and AMD cannot be established. Further randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting the risk of developing gastric cancer based on a questionnaire: a cross–sectional study
Authors: Huang Zhangsen , Chen Songyao , Yin Songcheng , Shi Zhaowen , Gu Liang , Li Liang , Yin Haofan , Huang Zhijian , Li Bo , Chen Xin , Yang Yilin , Wang Zhengli , Li Hai , Zhang Changhua , He Yulong
Published: November 2024

Background

Detection of gastric cancer (GC) at early stages is an effective strategy for decreasing mortality. This study aimed to construct a prediction nomogram based on a questionnaire to assess the risk of developing GC.

Methods

Our study comprised a total of 4379 participants (2326 participants from outpatient at Fengqing People’s Hospital were considered for model development and internal validation, and 2053 participants from outpatients at the endoscopy center at the Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University were considered for independent external validation) and gastric mucosa status was determined by endoscopy and biopsies. The eligible participants in development cohort from Fengqing people’s Hospital were randomly separated into a training cohort (n=1629, 70.0%) and an internal validation cohort (n=697, 30.0%). The relevant features were selected by a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and the ensuing features were evaluated through multivariable logistic regression analysis. Subsequently, the variables were selected to construct a prediction nomogram. The discriminative ability and predictive accuracy of the nomogram were evaluated by the C-index and calibration plot, respectively. Decision curve analysis (DCA) curves were used for the assessment of clinical benefit of the model. This model was developed to estimate the risk of developing neoplastic lesions according to the “transparent reporting of a multivariable prediction model for individual prognosis or diagnosis” (TRIPOD) statement.

Results

Six variables, including age, sex, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, education level, and Hp infection status, were independent risk factors for the development of neoplastic lesions. Thus, these variables were incorporated into the final nomogram. The AUC of the nomogram were 0.701, 0.657 and 0.699 in the training, internal validation, and external validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration curve showed that the nomogram was in good agreement with the observed outcomes. Compared to treatment of all patients or none, our nomogram showed a notably higher clinical benefit.

Conclusion

This nomogram proved to be a convenient, cost-effective tool to effectively predict an individual’s risk of developing neoplastic lesions, and it can act as a prescreening tool before gastroscopy.
The current state and trends of immunotherapy research in lung cancer: a review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Zheng Yun-Hua , Chen Li , Liu Xiang , Li Rong-Hui , Lei Hai-Bo , Chen Guang-Hui
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the integration of immunotherapy in the treatment of lung cancer has marked a significant evolution in the field. This is evidenced by the surge in the volume of scientific publications, reflecting rapid advances over time. This paper presents a bibliometric analysis of lung cancer and immunotherapy research from January 2012 to December 2022, drawing on the Web of Science literature database and using the citexs data analysis platform to examine the shifts in topic hotspots over the decade. A total of 8,722 publications were retrieved, with annual publication numbers soaring from 79 in 2012 to 2,112 in 2021. The most prolific country in terms of publication volume was China (n = 3,363, 38.56%), with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center making the most significant institutional contribution (n = 156, 1.79%). Notably, the most productive authors in this domain were Benjamin Besse and Marina Chiara Garassino, who have collectively published 35 articles to date. Predominant research themes include PD1/PDL1, clinical trials, pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Moreover, this paper visualizes the analysis of journals, keywords, key genes and targets, and associated diseases, aiming to provide a systematic review and a forward-looking perspective on research in lung cancer and immunotherapy. By exploring current research dynamics and hotspots and identifying areas for improvement, this study seeks to provide valuable insights for future investigations in this burgeoning field.
Lymph node assessment in cervical cancer: current approaches
Authors: Dheur Adriane , Kakkos Athanasios , Danthine Denis , Delbecque Katty , Goffin Frédéric , Gonne Elodie , Lovinfosse Pierre , Pleyers Clémence , Thille Alain , Kridelka Frédéric , Gennigens Christine
Published: November 2024

Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth most common neoplasia in women worldwide. Although early-stage CC is often curable, 40 to 50% of patients are diagnosed at a locally advanced stage. Metastatic disease accounts for the principal cause of death. Lymph node (LN) status is a major factor impacting treatment options and prognosis. Historically, CC was staged based only on clinical findings. However, in 2018, imaging modalities and/or pathological findings were included in the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging classification. In the last decades, LN status assessment has evolved considerably. Full pelvic lymphadenectomy used to be the only way to determine LN status. Currently, several options exist: surgery with full lymphadenectomy, sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy or imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). Regarding surgery, the SLN biopsy technique has become a standard procedure in cases of CC, with indocyanine green (ICG) being the preferred dye. Pelvic MRI is a valuable imaging technique modality for the evaluation of pelvic LNs. In locally advanced or in early-stage disease with suspicious LNs on CT scans or MRI, PET/CT is recommended for assessment of nodal and distant status. The best strategy for LN assessment remains a highly controversial topic in the literature. In this article, we aim to review and compare the advantages and limitations of each modality, i.e. imaging or surgical (lymphadenectomy or SLN biopsy) approaches.
Concurrent immune checkpoint blockade for enhanced cancer immunotherapy utilizing engineered hybrid nanovesicles
Authors: Liu Yuxuan , Yang Fuxu , Li Zhimin , Wang Ting , Mu Yeteng , Fan Yuxin , Xue Han , Hu Xiuli , Guan Xingang , Feng Hongxia
Published: November 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment, demonstrating unprecedented efficacy against advanced cancers. However, their clinical applications are significantly hampered by low overall response rates. Dual blockade of two immune checkpoints represents a promising strategy to enhance immunotherapeutic efficacy. In this study, we developed hybrid cell membrane nanovesicles adorned with PD-1 and SIRPα receptors for combination immunotherapy in melanoma. Our hybrid nanovesicles (PD-1/SIRPα NVs) demonstrated high specificity to PD-L1 and CD47 ligands, facilitating the phagocytosis of melanoma cells by macrophages. In a melanoma mouse model, PD-1/SIRPα NVs significantly suppressed 77% of tumor growth and elicited a robust antitumor immune response for immunotherapy. In conclusion, our findings highlight the promising potential of PD-1/SIRPα NVs as novel and effective ICIs for cancer immunotherapy.
Treatment of chronic osteomyelitis with gradient release of DGEA and vancomycin hydrogel-microsphere system and its mechanism
Authors: Zheng Yuhao , Wang Yue , Sheng Fan , Wang Shu , Zhou Ying , Li Xiaoxu , Li Ning , Song Wenling , Song Zhiming
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis mediated by biodegradable polymer platforms has received increasing attention. This paper reports an advanced drug delivery system, vancomycin (VA) and DGEA loaded microspheres embedded in injectable thermosensitive polypeptide hydrogels (i.e., hydrogel-microsphere (Gel-MP) construct), for continuous release of drugs with different mechanisms and more comprehensive treatment of chronic osteomyelitis. The Gel-MP construct exhibits continuous biodegradability and excellent biocompatibility. Microspheres (MP) are wrapped inside Gel. With the degradation of Gel, VA and MP are released from them, VA released with faster degradation speed, achieving a potent antibacterial effect and effectively controlling infection. Due to the slower degradation rate of MP compared to Gel, subsequently, DGEA is released from MP to induce bone formation and produce the effect of filling bone defects. Compared with other formulations, the in vivo combinational treatment of Gel/VA-MP/DGEA can simultaneously balance antibacterial and osteogenic effects. More importantly, local sustained-release drug delivery systems can significantly mitigate the systemic toxicity of drugs. Therefore, the injection local sequential drug delivery system has broad prospects in the clinical application of treating chronic osteomyelitis.
Predicting alfalfa leaf area index by non-linear models and deep learning models
Authors: Yang Songtao , Ge Yongqi , Wang Jing , Liu Rui , Fu Li
Published: November 2024

Leaf area index (LAI) of alfalfa is a crucial indicator of its growth status and a predictor of yield. The LAI of alfalfa is influenced by environmental factors, and the limitations of non-linear models in integrating these factors affect the accuracy of LAI predictions. This study explores the potential of classical non-linear models and deep learning for predicting alfalfa LAI. Initially, Logistic, Gompertz, and Richards models were developed based on growth days to assess the applicability of nonlinear models for LAI prediction of alfalfa. In contrast, this study combines environmental factors such as temperature and soil moisture, and proposes a time series prediction model based on mutation point detection method and encoder-attention-decoder BiLSTM network (TMEAD-BiLSTM). The model’s performance was analyzed and evaluated against LAI data from different years and cuts. The results indicate that the TMEAD-BiLSTM model achieved the highest prediction accuracy (R² > 0.99), while the non-linear models exhibited lower accuracy (R² > 0.78). The TMEAD-BiLSTM model overcomes the limitations of nonlinear models in integrating environmental factors, enabling rapid and accurate predictions of alfalfa LAI, which can provide valuable references for alfalfa growth monitoring and the establishment of field management practices.
Does early skin-to-skin contact have a long-term effect on the emotional and behavioral development of very preterm infants?
Authors: Trautmann-Villalba Patricia , Heine Eva , Kribs Angela , Mehler Katrin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Premature birth may impair a sensitive, responsive, enjoyable, and regulating parenting style, potentially leading to behavioral, cognitive, and emotional deficits in children. Additionally, the emotional bond between the parent and infant may be disturbed due to the restrictions and difficulties at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), further negatively impacting child development. Skin-to-skin contact (SSC) directly after birth is strongly recommended also for preterm or low birth weight infants since there is high-certainty evidence that SSC has positive effects on neonatal and maternal health as well as on the quality of the parent–child relationship. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of skin-to-skin contact immediately after childbirth on the development of emotional and behavioral problems in children born preterm entering school.

Methods

This study is part of a randomized controlled delivery room skin-to-skin study (Deisy Study). A total of 33 children (aged 6–8 years) were assessed at school start. The German version of the CBCL/6-18R was used to evaluate the presence of behavior problems.

Results

The perceived parental stress 6 months after discharge was the variable that most contributed to the variance explanation. SSC immediately after childbirth was not significant in the prediction of emotional and behavioral problems at school start.

Limitations

The study was conducted in a small study group. Partners' variables were not included. Information regarding sociodemographic variables and bonding quality was collected 6 months (corrected age) after birth. The measurement of children's behavioral problems is not objective and corresponds to the parents' perception.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov, deisy study NCT01959737, deisy follow up NCT03366285.
Preliminary findings of a randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation in treatment-resistant depression: a post-hoc analysis on the role of co-occurring personality disorders
Authors: Maciaszek Julian , Rymaszewska Joanna , Wieczorek Tomasz , Piotrowski Patryk , Szcześniak Dorota , Beszłej Jan A. , Małecka Monika , Bogudzińska Bogna , Senczyszyn Adrianna , Siwicki Damian , Biercewicz Marta , Kowalski Krzysztof , Zimny Anna , Podgórski Przemysław , Fila-Pawłowska Karolina
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Despite the high hopes for the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in the treatment of depression, between 30% and 60.5% of patients do not respond to stimulation. The factors contributing to non-response, especially those related to personality, remain insufficiently investigated. The main aim of our study was to compare the efficacy of active TMS and sham–placebo protocols in combined therapy of treatment-resistant depression with evaluation of possible personality disorders comorbidity.

Methods

The study was conducted between December 2019 and December 2022, as a randomized, double-blind, active comparator-controlled and sham-controlled parallel trial. Patients (n = 41) were randomized into one of two experimental conditions (active TMS vs. placebo) and screened before and after stimulation as well as at a 3-month follow-up. Personality disorders were assessed with The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Personality Disorders.

Results

There were no significant differences between the TMS active and sham groups in terms of general characteristics, coexisting personality disorders, and Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale scores before stimulation, at the end of stimulation, and after 3 months of stimulation. However, linear regression analysis revealed significant negative associations between the coexistence of personality disorders and the reduction of depressive symptoms from baseline to the end of stimulation. The post-hoc exploratory analysis on the first phase of the RCT confirmed the presence of personality disorders to be a consistent negative influence on the reduction of depressive symptoms post-stimulation, regardless of protocol and experimental condition and demonstrated a smaller percentage reduction in depressive symptoms after stimulation in patients with personality disorders.

Discussion

A central conclusion, based on our study, is that transcranial magnetic stimulation for treatment-resistant depression cannot be considered as a method independent of co-occurring personality disorders.
Shared genetic architecture of psychiatric disorders and hemorrhoidal disease: a large-scale genome-wide cross-trait analysis
Authors: Chen Zhangsendi , Hu Bowen , Sun Ji , Jiang Yuhong , Chen Zhe , Yang Chunmei , He Hongbo , Wang Weiguo
Published: November 2024

Background

The genetic association between psychiatric disorders and hemorrhoidal disease (HEM) is still not well known. The work aims to investigate their comorbidity at a genetic level.

Methods

Utilizing recent large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS), we investigated the genetic overlap at the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), gene, and molecular level between depression and HEM, bipolar disorder (BD) and HEM, neuroticism and HEM, as well as schizophrenia (SCZ) and HEM. The cross-trait genes were validated through the utilization of transcriptome and proteome methodologies. The causal link was assessed using bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis (MR) analysis. MRlap corrects for the potential bias in estimation caused by sample overlap.

Results

We discovered significant positive genetic associations between these four types of psychiatric disorders and HEM. Cross-phenotypic association analyses identified shared SNPs along with 17 specific loci between psychiatric disorders and HEM. MAGMA identified a total of 2304 pleiotropic genes, several of which showed significant expression in the results of transcriptome and proteome analyses. We observed that these genes are mostly associated with the regulation of transcription factors and particular DNA binding activities. Lastly, MR analysis provided evidence supporting a correlation between these conditions.

Conclusion

This study revealed a genetic correlation between four psychiatric disorders and HEM, identified pleiotropic loci, found multiple candidate genes, and confirmed causal relationships. This has enhanced our comprehension of the common genetic mechanisms of psychiatric disorders and HEM.
Nurturing care: perceptions and practices of caregivers for children under five in the Ecuadorian highlands – a qualitative study
Authors: Tello Betzabé , Mendoza-Gordillo Maria J. , Moreano Marcelo , Bates Benjamin R. , Quinn Katherine , Rogel Camila , Grijalva Mario J.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The importance of nurturing care for child development is well-established, and parents play a central role in providing this care. However, cultural values and traditions can influence child-rearing practices, and there are gaps in child welfare in Ecuador. Two research questions delve into caregivers’ definitions of nurturing care for children aged 0–5 and its alignment with World Health Organization’s concept.

Methods

A qualitative methodology was applied to comprehensively explore caregivers’ perspectives and application of nurturing care across diverse cultural contexts in rural areas of Cotopaxi and Loja in Ecuador. Using snowball sampling primary caregivers, healthcare professionals, childcare workers, and community leaders were interviewed and participated in focus groups, examining its congruence with WHO’s Nurturing Care Framework for Early Childhood Development.

Results

While there is alignment with the WHO framework, the study reveals challenges such as a lack of awareness of the term “nurturing care” among participants. Findings also indicate issues in health communication, reliance on traditional medicine, and myths around nutritional practices. The role of technology in early learning is explored, noting both its advantages and disadvantages. Notably, preventive health activities were not mentioned, emphasizing a universal need for knowledge.

Conclusion

This study urges tailored interventions for nurturing care, emphasizing success tied to robust healthcare and child protection. Urgency lies in cultural sensitivity, local adaptation, and targeted training for implementation. These insights contribute significantly to the global discourse, stressing the importance of context-specific approaches. Implications are crucial for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers dedicated to elevating care quality for vulnerable populations worldwide.
Exploring the feasibility of Recovery Management Checkups for Primary Care in a Federally Qualified Health Center
Authors: Watson Dennis P. , Singh Ryan , Taylor Lisa , Dennis Michael L. , Grella Christine E. , Johnstone Carol , Browne Katherine , Saldana Lisa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Primary care settings present an opportunity for alcohol and substance use disorder (A/SUD) screening and treatment referral. However, there are recognized deficiencies in widely used treatment referral approaches, including acute care connections, vs. those that can support longer-term recovery. Recovery Management Checkups for Primary Care (RMC-PC) is an intervention with an evidence base for improving treatment referral and subsequent recovery for primary care patients; however, the intervention has never been fully implemented outside of a research context. We conducted a feasibility study to inform a future hybrid study of RMC-PC that will test the implementation and effectiveness of the intervention in primary care practice.

Method

We used a convergent mixed method design. The study’s setting was a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) located in a large midwestern city. RMC-PC linkage services were administered by one of two treatment linkage managers: an FQHC linkage manager (F-LM) and a research staff linkage manager (R-LM). Quantitative data included (a) rates of positive A/SUD screening among a group of FQHC patients and (b) linkage manager service data (e.g., rate of successful meeting completion and days to completing of key events). Qualitative data included (c) an assessment of linkage manager’s motivational interviewing performance and (d) a focus group with FQHC staff focused on their perspectives on RMC-PC implementation determinants. Quantitative data were summarized using descriptive statistics, and linkage manager performance was compared. Qualitative data were analyzed using a hybrid deductive-inductive process.

Results

Fifty percent of patients screened met moderate-high A/SUD risk. Eleven of 16 recruited patients completed at least one linkage manager meeting, with 63% completing both meetings. The F-LM delivered RMC-PC services alongside other duties successfully; however, three primary barriers to FQHC implementation were identified (difficulties applying motivational interviewing, incompatibilities of screening with FQHC technology and workflow, and lack of billing mechanism to support services).

Conclusion

RMC-PC is feasible for FQHC staff to deliver, though issues identified must be considered to ensure successful and sustainable implementation. Knowledge gained will inform a packaged implementation strategy that will be used in a future hybrid trial.
Abraded optical fibre-based dynamic range force sensor for tissue palpation
Authors: Dawood Abu Bakar , Chavali Vamsi Krishna , Mack Thomas , Zhang Zhenyu , Godaba Hareesh , Angelmahr Martin , Althoefer Kaspar
Published: November 2024

Tactile information acquired through palpation plays a crucial role in relation to surface characterisation and tissue differentiation - an essential clinical requirement during surgery. In the case of Minimally Invasive Surgery, access is restricted, and tactile feedback available to surgeons is therefore reduced. This paper presents a novel stiffness controllable, dynamic force range sensor that can provide remote haptic feedback. The sensor has an abraded optical fibre integrated into a silicone dome. Forces applied to the dome change the curvature of the optical fibres, resulting in light attenuation. By changing the pressure within the dome and thereby adjusting the sensor’s stiffness, we are able to modify the force measurement range. Results from our experimental study demonstrate that increasing the pressure inside the dome increases the force range whilst decreasing force sensitivity. We show that the maximum force measured by our sensor prototype at 20 mm/min was 5.02 N, 6.70 N and 8.83 N for the applied pressures of 0 psi (0 kPa), 0.5 psi (3.45 kPa) and 1 psi (6.9 kPa), respectively. The sensor has also been tested to estimate the stiffness of 13 phantoms of different elastic moduli. Results show the elastic modulus sensing range of the proposed sensor to be from 8.58 to 165.32 kPa.