bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New methods for the treatment and prevention of anemia during pregnancy
Authors:   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Dobrokhotova Yu.E. , Romanovskaya V.V. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Narimanova M.R. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: March 2024

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common extragenital pathology in pregnancy. Its relevance is determined by its impact on obstetric and perinatal outcomes, since iron deficiency negatively affects the course of pregnancy and fetal development. Timely detection, treatment, and prevention of iron deficiency conditions during pregnancy are necessary to reduce the risk of complications. The article discusses the main issues and criteria of rational diagnosis and modern approaches to the anemia treatment. It notes the importance of timely and full correction of iron deficiency to avoid the development of fetal neurocognitive disorders. Special attention is paid to the choice of iron products, the benefits and drawbacks of various forms of iron that limit their use in pregnant women. Separately, an innovative dosage form sucrosomal® iron is viewed, which can be considered as an effective means of treating this pathology. The article also presents the clinical studies and pharmacokinetic characteristics of oral sucrosomal iron, using which the necessary effect is achieved with lower doses in the absence of adverse events, which is of paramount importance during gestation. KEYWORDS: anemia of pregnancy, iron deficiency anemia, iron deficiency, iron preparations, sucrosomal iron, sucrosome. FOR CITATION: Dobrokhotova Yu.E., Romanovskaya V.V., Narimanova M.R. New methods for the treatment and prevention of anemia during pregnancy. Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2024;7(1):26–34 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2024-7-1-4.
Study of Fruit Waste as Bio-battery Materials for Alternative Electricity
Authors: Sigalingging Riswanti , Sitorus Yohana
Published: March 2024

Organic vegetable and fruit waste may be used for green energy. Electrolyte-rich fruits can be used to make pollution-free bio-batteries. This study measures fermentation temperature and environment, pH before and after fermentation, electrical voltage, current, power, resistance, and energy in starfruit (Averrhoa carambola), mango (Mangifera indica), and strawberry (Fragaria) waste for 8, 10, and 12 days. A fully randomized factorial design was used for the experiment. The investigation concluded that 8-day strawberry waste fermentation was the optimum treatment. Temperature after fermentation was 28°C, ambient temperature was 29°C, pH before fermentation was 4, after fermentation was 3.2, voltage was 2.97 volts, current was 3.65 mA, power was 10.84 mW, resistance was 1,297 Ohm, and electrical energy was 73.32 mWh.
Effects of Electricity Sector Climate Policies in a Second-best World of Missing Risk Markets
Authors: Dimanchev Emil , Fleten Stein-Erik , Gabriel Steven A , Korpas Magnus
Published: March 2024

Analyses of climate policies often assume the economy is in a first-best equilibrium with well-functioning markets. This paper studies policy effects in power systems characterized by a market failure known as the missing market problem, whereby the incompleteness of long-term markets leaves investors exposed to uninsured risk. We find that renewable tax credits and CO 2 taxes may partly correct this market failure, thus providing an economic benefit additional to climate change mitigation. Consequently, illustrative experiments show the costs of these policies to be lower, and in some cases even negative, in power systems with missing risk markets.
Pendampingan Masyarakat Desa Tulungrejo dan Desa Sumber Brantas dalam Kajian Kerentanan terhadap Risiko Perubahan Iklim
Authors: Pratiwi Anggraeni Hadi , Machfuroh Talifatim , Pitaloka Dyah , Abidin Zainal , Hakim Arief Lukman , Buana Arum Sekar
Published: March 2024

Permasalahan utama yang terjadi di area hulu DAS Brantas adalah tingkat erosi yang tinggi karena model dan cara-cara usahatani hortikultura yang salah secara ekologis. Kondisi ini menyebabkan kerentanan bagi masyarakat dalam menghadapi perubahan iklim. Tujuan dari kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana tingkat kerentanan terhadap risiko akibat perubahan iklim. Kegiatan ini dilakukan di dua desa, yaitu Desa Tulungrejo dan Desa Sumber Brantas pada bulan Februari 2021. Tiga kegiatan utama yang dilakukan, yaitu Focus Group Discussion (FGD), analisa risiko perubahan iklim menggunakan metode Analisa 4 Jendela, dan analisa risiko perubahan iklim menggunakan metode Analisa 5W+1H. Hasil dari kegiatan ini menunjukkan bahwa Desa Tulungrejo dan Desa Sumber Brantas tergolong ke dalam wilayah yang memiliki tingkat risiko ringan hingga sedang di bidang pertanian. Ancaman curah hujan yang tinggi menyebabkan banjir menjadi salah satu penyebab risiko yang tinggi di berbagai bidang strategis karena terjadi di tempat yang memiliki kerentanan yang juga tinggi.
The correlation of endurance and speed on the performance of Long-Distance Runners 2022 in East Java Province
Authors: Rahayu Setya , Wajib Mat , Winarno Mashuri Eko , Sumartiningsih Sri
Published: March 2024

The study aims to investigate the correlation between anaerobic speed and endurance in the performance of a marathon 5 km. Twenty-one athletes (15 males(aged 16.7 ± 1.6 years old) and six females (aged 17.8 ± 1.2 years old). The study relied on A cross-sectional design with a survey test used for a 300 m sprint test, a balke test (Vo2 Max), and the time performed at 5 km. The results of the study analysis data showed that significant relationship between endurance and performance as the result of speed in the 5 km running (p=0.002, r = -0.735) in males. The male anaerobic power and performance had a strong correlation (p=0.000, r=0.944). Female long-distance runners showed a significant relation between VO2 max and performance (p= 0.016, r = -0.894). On the other hand, the anaerobic test had a significant correlation with performance (p =0.048, r =0.814). The study concluded that the endurance (Vo2 max) and speed (anaerobic 300 m) contributed to the running time of long-distance runners 5 K.
Natural based hydrogels promote chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Zahedi Tehrani Tina , Irani Shiva , Ardeshirylajimi Abdolreza , Seyedjafari Ehsan
Published: March 2024

Background: The cartilage tissue lacks blood vessels, which is composed of chondrocytes and ECM. Due to this vessel-less structure, it is difficult to repair cartilage tissue damages. One of the new methods to repair cartilage damage is to use tissue engineering. In the present study, it was attempted to simulate a three-dimensional environment similar to the natural ECM of cartilage tissue by using hydrogels made of natural materials, including Chitosan and different ratios of Alginate.

Material and methods: Chitosan, alginate and Chitosan/Alginate hydrogels were fabricated. Fourier Transform Infrared, XRD, swelling ratio, porosity measurement and degradation tests were applied to scaffolds characterization. After that, human adipose derived-mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) were cultured on the hydrogels and then their viability and chondrogenic differentiation capacity were studied. Safranin O and Alcian blue staining, immunofluorescence staining and real time RT-PCR were used as analytical methods for chondrogenic differentiation potential evaluation of hADMSCs when cultured on the hydrogels.

Results: The highest degradation rate was detected in Chitosan/Alginate (1:0.5) group The scaffold biocompatibility results revealed that the viability of the cells cultured on the hydrogels groups was not significantly different with the cells cultured in the control group. Safranin O staining, Alcian blue staining, immunofluorescence staining and real time PCR results revealed that the chondrogenic differentiation potential of the hADMSCs when grown on the Chitosan/Alginate hydrogel (1:0.5) was significantly higher than those cell grown on the other groups.

Conclusion: Taken together, these results suggest that Chitosan/Alginate hydrogel (1:0.5) could be a promising candidate for cartilage tissue engineering applications.
Evaluation of Habenaria aitchisonii Reichb. for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive effects with in vivo and in silico approaches
Authors: Asiri Saeed Ahmed , Shabnam Madeeha , Zafar Rehman , Alshehri Osama M. , Alshehri Mohammed Ali , Sadiq Abdul , Mahnashi Mater H. , Jan Muhammad Saeed
Published: March 2024

Habenaria aitchisonii Reichb was analyzed in this research, including its chemical composition and its in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, acute oral toxicity, and antinociceptive activity. The chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were found to be the most powerful based on in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic assays. The acute oral toxicity of the crude methanolic extract was determined before in vivo studies. The acetic acid and formalin tests were used to measure the antinociceptive effect, and the potential mechanisms involved in antinociception were explored. The carrageenan-induced paw edema test was used to examine the immediate anti-inflammatory effect, and many phlogistic agents were used to determine the specific mechanism. Furthermore, for ex vivo activities, the mice were sacrificed, the forebrain was isolated, and the antioxidant levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and catalase (CAT) were estimated using a UV spectrophotometer. No toxicity was seen at oral dosages up to 3,000 mg/kg. The antinociceptive impact was much higher than the standard drug. Both the inflammatory and neurogenic phases of the formalin experiment revealed an analgesic effect in the chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions. In carrageenan anti-inflammatory assays, the chloroform fraction (Ha.Chf) was the most potent fraction. We further studied the GC-MS of crude plant extract and found a total of 18 compounds. In the anti-inflammatory mechanism, it was observed that the Ha.Chf inhibits the COX-2 as well as 5-LOX pathways. The results exhibited that this species is a good source of phytocomponents like germacrone, which can be employed as a sustainable and natural therapeutic agent, supporting its traditional use in folk medicine for inflammatory conditions and pain.
Refining concepts for empirical multimodal research: defining semiotic modes and semiotic resources
Authors: Castaldi Jacopo
Published: March 2024

The issue of defining key concepts in multimodal research is at the same time ongoing and of pivotal importance. Building on John Bateman’s categorisation of modes, and paying special attention to the concept of materiality within the discussion, the paper provides a clear differentiation between semiotic modes and semiotic resources and discusses the relationship between the two. These will be defined by also looking at how they differ from another key concept in multimodal research, i.e., media, and examples will be provided to illustrate how the newly defined concepts can guide empirical investigations of multimodal texts and their reception. The paper aims to continue the discussions around these key concepts amongst multimodal scholars, so that agreement in the field can eventually be reached.
Value orientations toward wild meat in Guyana are determined by gender, ethnicity, and location
Authors: Paemelaere Evi A.D. , Puran Anupana , Williams Timothy , Agard Gavin , Pierre Mia A. , Yang Huichang , Kenyon Ayla , Zammett Jose , van Vliet Nathalie
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Understanding what drives differences in values toward wild meat is important for developing legislation and behavioral change campaigns that promote sustainable use. Value orientations (VOs) underly behavior. VOs are influenced by personal (e.g., gender, generation), social (e.g., media, family), location (e.g., rural versus urban), and experience determinants. In Guyana, an ethnic diverse nation in South America, the national hunting laws have recently been instated. The wildlife management agency is rolling out a behavioral change campaign in collaboration with a sustainable use initiative. To support this campaign, we evaluated VOs toward wild meat across Guyana.

Methods

Applying Multiple Correspondence Analysis and generalized linear models to data from interviews, we examined location, personal, and societal determinants for their influence on these VOs and explored how VOs translated into behavior, specifically wild meat consumption frequency.

Results

Location (Indigenous and coastal: rural, town, urban), intertwined with ethnicity, and gender showed the strongest associations with variation in VOs. Respondents from Indigenous territories expressed mostly positive VOs compared to coastal Guyanese. Women expressed more neutral or negative, and more negative biocentric VOs compared to men, and this difference was largest among Indigenous but non-existent in urban sites. Negative anthropocentric VOs toward wild meat consistently grouped together and dominated among those not consuming wild meat. Highest consumption was seen among those expressing positive materialistic VOs. Positive anthropocentric VOs were associate with intermediate consumption frequencies and most typical for men. Those expressing negative values toward wild meat based on biocentric orientations toward wildlife consumed wild meat, but rarely.

Discussion

Our results direct behavioral change efforts to men on the coast who consume wild meat for enjoyment at bars, restaurants, or family events. Based on our study, positive messaging promoting the coexistence between consumption of mostly resilient species and caring about wildlife would be well-received to support sustainable use policies.
Refined risk assessment and differentiated protection of lightning damage in distribution network lines considering the underlying surface environment
Authors: Wan Ziyang , Fu Lixiang , Du Zhenchuan , Chen Zhigang , Liu Chao , Zhu Yi , Ma Xiaoxin
Published: March 2024

The distribution line is widely distributed and the span of pole-towers is small. However, the existing lightning positioning system has limited positioning accuracy, and the lightning strike coordinates it locates have certain deviations for the distribution network. The lightning hazard risk divided by lightning density is not sufficient to support the differentiated lightning protection transformation of the distribution network. The environment of the underlying surface where the pole-tower is located has a significant impact on lightning activity, so this paper combines terrain, climate, lightning current characteristics, and historical lightning trip data to finely evaluate the lightning risk level in the distribution line pole-tower area. This paper provides a detailed analysis of the relationship between different underlying surface environments and lightning current characteristics and utilizes the entropy weight method to construct a comprehensive lightning disaster risk index, then evaluates the risk level of lightning disaster in different regions, and corrects it through lightning fault data. Overlaying the risk level of the area and the distribution map of the pole-tower foundation coordinates, it will obtain the distribution of lightning hazard-pregnant risk at the pole-tower area, which would contribute to guiding the differentiated lightning protection transformation of the line. Compared to traditional unified lightning protection renovation methods, differentiated lightning protection methods that integrate factors such as pole-tower structure, wire type, and lightning risk level can achieve significant lightning protection effects at a lower economic cost. Taking Nanchang City as an example, risk assessment and lightning protection renovation were conducted on 21 distribution lines. The average number of lightning trips per year is 55 before the renovation, but it is only 4 after the renovation, which the number of lightning trips significantly reduce. This verifies the effectiveness of using lightning hazard-pregnant assessment results to guide differentiated lightning protection methods.
Integrating economic load dispatch information into the blockchain smart contracts based on the fractional-order swarming optimizer
Authors: Khan Babar Sattar , Qamar Affaq , Wadood Abdul , Almuhanna Khalid , Al-Shamma Abdullrahman A.
Published: March 2024

The modern power generation systems are increasing their reliance on high penetrations of distributed energy resources (DERs). However, the optimal dispatching mechanisms mainly rely on central controls which receive the load demand information from the electricity utility providers and allocate the electricity production targets to participating generating units. The lack of transparency and control over the DER fuel inputs makes the physical power purchase agreements (PPAs) a cumbersome task. This research work proposes an innovative fractal moth flame optimization (FMFO) approach to tackle the problem of integrated load dispatch (ILD). The proposed methodology provides a mechanism to integrate the information of the proposed optimizer, i.e., FMFO into the smart contracts enabled by the blockchain technology. This problem entails the allocation of loads to power-generating units in a manner that minimizes the total generation cost in a decentralized manner. To improve the efficiency of dispatch operations in the presence of a substantial integration of wind energy, this study proposes a novel framework based on the principles of fractal heritage, drawing inspiration from the classical MFO method. To assess the effectiveness and adaptability of the algorithm suggested, various non-convex scenarios in the context of optimization for ILD are considered. These scenarios incorporate valve-point loading effects (VPLEs), capacity limitations, power plants with multiple fuel options, and the presence of stochastic wind (SW) power uncertainty, following a Weibull distribution. The findings demonstrate exceptional performance in terms of minimizing fuel generation costs compared to traditional algorithms.
Immune and behavioral correlates of protection against symptomatic post-vaccination SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Goguet Emilie , Olsen Cara H. , Meyer William A. , Ansari Sara , Powers John H. , Conner Tonia L. , Coggins Si’Ana A. , Wang Wei , Wang Richard , Illinik Luca , Sanchez Edwards Margaret , Jackson-Thompson Belinda M. , Hollis-Perry Monique , Wang Gregory , Alcorta Yolanda , Wong Mimi A. , Saunders David , Mohammed Roshila , Balogun Bolatito , Kobi Priscilla , Kosh Lakeesha , Bishop-Lilly Kimberly , Cer Regina Z. , Arnold Catherine E. , Voegtly Logan J. , Fitzpatrick Maren , Luquette Andrea E. , Malagon Francisco , Ortega Orlando , Parmelee Edward , Davies Julian , Lindrose Alyssa R. , Haines-Hull Hannah , Moser Matthew S. , Samuels Emily C. , Rekedal Marana S. , Graydon Elizabeth K. , Malloy Allison M. W. , Tribble David R. , Burgess Timothy H. , Campbell Wesley , Robinson Sara , Broder Christopher C. , O’Connell Robert J. , Weiss Carol D. , Pollett Simon , Laing Eric D. , Mitre Edward
Published: March 2024

Introduction

We sought to determine pre-infection correlates of protection against SARS-CoV-2 post-vaccine inzfections (PVI) acquired during the first Omicron wave in the United States.

Methods

Serum and saliva samples from 176 vaccinated adults were collected from October to December of 2021, immediately before the Omicron wave, and assessed for SARS-CoV-2 Spike-specific IgG and IgA binding antibodies (bAb). Sera were also assessed for bAb using commercial assays, and for neutralization activity against several SARS-CoV-2 variants. PVI duration and severity, as well as risk and precautionary behaviors, were assessed by questionnaires.

Results

Serum anti-Spike IgG levels assessed by research assay, neutralization titers against Omicron subvariants, and low home risk scores correlated with protection against PVIs after multivariable regression analysis. Commercial assays did not perform as well as research assay, likely due to their lower dynamic range.

Discussion

In the 32 participants that developed PVI, anti-Spike IgG bAbs correlated with lower disease severity and shorter duration of illness.
Case report: Successful treatment of acute generalized pustular psoriasis with multiple comorbidities with oral tacrolimus
Authors: Zhao Mingdan , Huang Fujun , Tang Lei , Zhou Xun , Zhang Miao , Liao Mengxue , Liu Lirong , Huang Mengya
Published: March 2024

Acute generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a serious illness. Despite various treatment methods, there is still lack of effective treatment plans for refractory cases with multiple comorbidities. This case report presents a 67-year-old woman with acute GPP, stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD), type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, in whom skin symptom disappearance and kidney function improvement were observed after the use of oral tacrolimus as the sole therapy. This is the first report on the application of tacrolimus in the treatment of acute GPP, especially refractory acute GPP. The successful treatment indicates that there are shared immune pathways between acute GPP and CKD, and the pathways can be interdicted by tacrolimus. Further studies are needed to optimize the therapy to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity.
Uterine macrophages and NK cells exhibit population and gene-level changes after implantation but maintain pro-invasive properties
Authors: Mani Sneha , Garifallou James , Kim Se-jeong , Simoni Michael K. , Huh Dan Dongeun , Gordon Scott M. , Mainigi Monica
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Prior to pregnancy, hormonal changes lead to cellular adaptations in the endometrium allowing for embryo implantation. Critical for successful pregnancy establishment, innate immune cells constitute a significant proportion of uterine cells prior to arrival of the embryo and throughout the first trimester in humans and animal models. Abnormal uterine immune cell function during implantation is believed to play a role in multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes. Current work in humans has focused on uterine immune cells present after pregnancy establishment, and limited in vitro models exist to explore unique functions of these cells.

Methods

With single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNAseq), we comprehensively compared the human uterine immune landscape of the endometrium during the window of implantation and the decidua during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Results

We uncovered global and cell-type-specific gene signatures for each timepoint. Immune cells in the endometrium prior to implantation expressed genes associated with immune metabolism, division, and activation. In contrast, we observed widespread interferon signaling during the first trimester of pregnancy. We also provide evidence of specific inflammatory pathways enriched in pre- and post-implantation macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells in the uterine lining. Using our novel implantation-on-a-chip (IOC) to model human implantation ex vivo, we demonstrate for the first time that uterine macrophages strongly promote invasion of extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs), a process essential for pregnancy establishment. Pre- and post-implantation uterine macrophages promoted EVT invasion to a similar degree as pre- and post-implantation NK cells on the IOC.

Conclusions

This work provides a foundation for further investigation of the individual roles of uterine immune cell subtypes present prior to embryo implantation and during early pregnancy, which will be critical for our understanding of pregnancy complications associated with abnormal trophoblast invasion and placentation.
Proteome-wide Mendelian randomization identifies therapeutic targets for ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Zhao Wenlong , Fang Peng , Lai Chengteng , Xu Xiaoyu , Wang Yang , Liu Hao , Jiang Hui , Liu Xiaozhou , Liu Jun
Published: March 2024

Background

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder which can lead to considerable pain and disability. Mendelian randomization (MR) has been extensively applied for repurposing licensed drugs and uncovering new therapeutic targets. Our objective is to pinpoint innovative therapeutic protein targets for AS and assess the potential adverse effects of druggable proteins.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive proteome-wide MR study to assess the causal relationships between plasma proteins and the risk of AS. The plasma proteins were sourced from the UK Biobank Pharma Proteomics Project (UKB-PPP) database, encompassing GWAS data for 2,940 plasma proteins. Additionally, GWAS data for AS were extracted from the R9 version of the Finnish database, including 2,860 patients and 270,964 controls. The colocalization analysis was executed to identify shared causal variants between plasma proteins and AS. Finally, we examined the potential adverse effects of druggable proteins for AS therapy by conducting a phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) utilizing the extensive Finnish database in version R9, encompassing 2,272 phenotypes categorized into 46 groups.

Results

The findings revealed a positive genetic association between the predicted plasma levels of six proteins and an elevated risk of AS, while two proteins exhibited an inverse association with AS risk (Pfdr < 0.05). Among these eight plasma proteins, colocalization analysis identified AIF1, TNF, FKBPL, AGER, ALDH5A1, and ACOT13 as shared variation with AS(PPH3+PPH4>0.8), suggesting that they represent potential direct targets for AS intervention. Further phenotype-wide association studies have shown some potential side effects of these six targets (Pfdr < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our investigation examined the causal connections between six plasma proteins and AS, providing a comprehensive understanding of potential therapeutic targets.
A systematic review assessing the potential use of cystatin c as a biomarker for kidney disease in people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Hanser Sidney , Choshi Joel , Mokoena Haskly , Mabhida Sihle E. , Mchiza Zandile J. R. , Moetlediwa Marakiya T. , Muvhulawa Ndivhuwo , Nkambule Bongani B. , Ndwandwe Duduzile , Nqebelele Unati , Kengne André P. , Dludla Phiwayinkosi V.
Published: March 2024

The introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly prolonged the lifespan of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). However, the sustained use of this drug regimen has also been associated with a cluster of metabolic anomalies, including renal toxicity, which can lead to the development of kidney diseases. In this study, we reviewed studies examining kidney disease in PLWH sourced from electronic databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar, as well as gray literature. The narrative synthesis of data from these clinical studies demonstrated that the serum levels of cystatin C remained unchanged or were not affected in PLWH on ART, while the creatinine-based glomerular filtration rate (GFR) fluctuated. In fact, some of the included studies showed that the creatinine-based GFR was increased in PLWH taking tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-containing ART, perhaps indicating that the use of both cystatin C- and creatinine-based GFRs is vital to monitor the development of kidney disease in PLWH. Clinical data summarized within this study indicate the potential detrimental effects of tenofovir-based ART regimens in causing renal tubular injury, while highlighting the possible beneficial effects of dolutegravir-based ART on improving the kidney function in PLWH. However, the summarized literature remains limited, while further clinical studies are required to provide insights into the potential use of cystatin C as a biomarker for kidney disease in PLWH.
Transcranial electrical stimulation during functional magnetic resonance imaging in patients with genetic generalized epilepsy: a pilot and feasibility study
Authors: Cohen Zachary , Steinbrenner Mirja , Piper Rory J. , Tangwiriyasakul Chayanin , Richardson Mark P. , Sharp David J. , Violante Ines R. , Carmichael David W.
Published: March 2024

Objective

A third of patients with epilepsy continue to have seizures despite receiving adequate antiseizure medication. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) might be a viable adjunct treatment option, having been shown to reduce epileptic seizures in patients with focal epilepsy. Evidence for the use of tDCS in genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE) is scarce. We aimed to establish the feasibility of applying tDCS during fMRI in patients with GGE to study the acute neuromodulatory effects of tDCS, particularly on sensorimotor network activity.

Methods

Seven healthy controls and three patients with GGE received tDCS with simultaneous fMRI acquisition while watching a movie. Three tDCS conditions were applied: anodal, cathodal and sham. Periods of 60 s without stimulation were applied between each stimulation condition. Changes in sensorimotor cortex connectivity were evaluated by calculating the mean degree centrality across eight nodes of the sensorimotor cortex defined by the Automated Anatomical Labeling atlas (primary motor cortex (precentral left and right), supplementary motor area (left and right), mid-cingulum (left and right), postcentral gyrus (left and right)), across each of the conditions, for each participant.

Results

Simultaneous tDCS-fMRI was well tolerated in both healthy controls and patients without adverse effects. Anodal and cathodal stimulation reduced mean degree centrality of the sensorimotor network (Friedman’s ANOVA with Dunn’s multiple comparisons test; adjusted p = 0.02 and p = 0.03 respectively). Mean degree connectivity of the sensorimotor network during the sham condition was not different to the rest condition (adjusted p = 0.94).

Conclusion

Applying tDCS during fMRI was shown to be feasible and safe in a small group of patients with GGE. Anodal and cathodal stimulation caused a significant reduction in network connectivity of the sensorimotor cortex across participants. This initial research supports the feasibility of using fMRI to guide and understand network modulation by tDCS that might facilitate its clinical application in GGE in the future.
A systematic review of automated methods to perform white matter tract segmentation
Authors: Joshi Ankita , Li Hailong , Parikh Nehal A. , He Lili
Published: March 2024

White matter tract segmentation is a pivotal research area that leverages diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) for the identification and mapping of individual white matter tracts and their trajectories. This study aims to provide a comprehensive systematic literature review on automated methods for white matter tract segmentation in brain dMRI scans. Articles on PubMed, ScienceDirect [NeuroImage, NeuroImage (Clinical), Medical Image Analysis], Scopus and IEEEXplore databases and Conference proceedings of Medical Imaging Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention Society (MICCAI) and International Symposium on Biomedical Imaging (ISBI), were searched in the range from January 2013 until September 2023. This systematic search and review identified 619 articles. Adhering to the specified search criteria using the query, “white matter tract segmentationORfiber tract identificationOR fiberbundle segmentationORtractography dissectionORwhite matter parcellationORtract segmentation,”59 published studies were selected. Among these, 27% employed direct voxel-based methods, 25% applied streamline-based clustering methods, 20% used streamline-based classification methods, 14% implemented atlas-based methods, and 14% utilized hybrid approaches. The paper delves into the research gaps and challenges associated with each of these categories. Additionally, this review paper illuminates the most frequently utilized public datasets for tract segmentation along with their specific characteristics. Furthermore, it presents evaluation strategies and their key attributes. The review concludes with a detailed discussion of the challenges and future directions in this field.
Predicting carob tree physiological parameters under different irrigation systems using Random Forest and Planet satellite images
Authors: Garofalo Simone Pietro , Giannico Vincenzo , Lorente Beatriz , García Antonio José García , Vivaldi Gaetano Alessandro , Thameur Afwa , Salcedo Francisco Pedrero
Published: March 2024

Introduction

In the context of climate change, monitoring the spatial and temporal variability of plant physiological parameters has become increasingly important. Remote spectral imaging and GIS software have shown effectiveness in mapping field variability. Additionally, the application of machine learning techniques, essential for processing large data volumes, has seen a significant rise in agricultural applications. This research was focused on carob tree, a drought-resistant tree crop spread through the Mediterranean basin. The study aimed to develop robust models to predict the net assimilation and stomatal conductance of carob trees and to use these models to analyze seasonal variability and the impact of different irrigation systems.

Methods

Planet satellite images were acquired on the day of field data measurement. The reflectance values of Planet spectral bands were used as predictors to develop the models. The study employed the Random Forest modeling approach, and its performances were compared with that of traditional multiple linear regression.

Results and discussion

The findings reveal that Random Forest, utilizing Planet spectral bands as predictors, achieved high accuracy in predicting net assimilation (R² = 0.81) and stomatal conductance (R² = 0.70), with the yellow and red spectral regions being particularly influential. Furthermore, the research indicates no significant difference in intrinsic water use efficiency between the various irrigation systems and rainfed conditions. This work highlighted the potential of combining satellite remote sensing and machine learning in precision agriculture, with the goal of the efficient monitoring of physiological parameters.
Dissection of quantitative trait nucleotides and candidate genes associated with agronomic and yield-related traits under drought stress in rapeseed varieties: integration of genome-wide association study and transcriptomic analysis
Authors: Salami Maryam , Heidari Bahram , Alizadeh Bahram , Batley Jacqueline , Wang Jin , Tan Xiao-Li , Dadkhodaie Ali , Richards Christopher
Published: March 2024

Introduction

An important strategy to combat yield loss challenge is the development of varieties with increased tolerance to drought to maintain production. Improvement of crop yield under drought stress is critical to global food security.

Methods

In this study, we performed multiomics analysis in a collection of 119 diverse rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) varieties to dissect the genetic control of agronomic traits in two watering regimes [well-watered (WW) and drought stress (DS)] for 3 years. In the DS treatment, irrigation continued till the 50% pod development stage, whereas in the WW condition, it was performed throughout the whole growing season.

Results

The results of the genome-wide association study (GWAS) using 52,157 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revealed 1,281 SNPs associated with traits. Six stable SNPs showed sequence variation for flowering time between the two irrigation conditions across years. Three novel SNPs on chromosome C04 for plant weight were located within drought tolerance-related gene ABCG16, and their pleiotropically effects on seed weight per plant and seed yield were characterized. We identified the C02 peak as a novel signal for flowering time, harboring 52.77% of the associated SNPs. The 288-kbps LD decay distance analysis revealed 2,232 candidate genes (CGs) associated with traits. The CGs BIG1-D, CAND1, DRG3, PUP10, and PUP21 were involved in phytohormone signaling and pollen development with significant effects on seed number, seed weight, and grain yield in drought conditions. By integrating GWAS and RNA-seq, 215 promising CGs were associated with developmental process, reproductive processes, cell wall organization, and response to stress. GWAS and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of leaf and seed in the yield contrasting accessions identified BIG1-D, CAND1, and DRG3 genes for yield variation.

Discussion

The results of our study provide insights into the genetic control of drought tolerance and the improvement of marker-assisted selection (MAS) for breeding high-yield and drought-tolerant varieties.
Decline in unmet needs for cataract surgery among the ageing population in India: findings from LASI, wave-1
Authors: Das Sasmita , Sinha Abhinav , Kanungo Srikanta , Pati Sanghamitra
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness among older people, but they can be treated with corrective surgery. India boasts the oldest blindness control programme in the world. We aimed to assess the prevalence of cataract surgery, and we compared the determinants of undergoing cataract surgery and identified the unmet needs for cataract surgery among older adults in India.

Methods

We included 52,380 individuals aged ≥50 years from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India, wave-1. The primary outcome measures of our study were the prevalence of cataract surgery and the unmet need for cataract surgery. Multivariate analysis was executed to investigate the association between socio-demographic variables and outcomes, expressing the results as adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The overall prevalence of cataracts was 14.85%. The coverage of cataract surgery was 76.95%, with 23% having unmet needs for cataract surgery. Notably, cataract surgery coverage was higher at 78.30% (95% CI: 76.88–79.48) among participants aged 66–80 years, while the percentage of those who did not undergo cataract surgery was higher at 24.62% (95% CI: 23.09–26.20) among participants aged 50–60 years. The most deprived group had a higher odds ratio [adjusted odds ratio: 1.20 (95% CI: 1.00–1.44)] (p < 0.05) of having unmet needs for cataract surgery.

Conclusions

There is a considerable burden of age-related cataracts in India. While the coverage of cataract surgery is high, the unmet need for cataract surgery cannot be overlooked. The existing blindness control programme has contributed significantly to increasing the coverage of cataract surgery, but it still needs to be strengthened, especially to reach the most deprived sections of society.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage-associated brain injury and neurobehavioral deficits are reversed with synthetic adropin treatment through sustained Ser1179 phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Dodd William S. , Patel Devan , Laurent Dimitri , Lucke-Wold Brandon , Hosaka Koji , Johnson Richard D. , Chalouhi Nohra , Butler Andrew A. , Candelario-Jalil Eduardo , Hoh Brian L.
Published: March 2024

Background

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a life-threatening vascular condition without satisfactory treatment options. The secreted peptide adropin is highly expressed in the human brain and has neuroprotective effects in brain injury models, including actions involving the cerebrovasculature. Here, we report an endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)-dependent effect of synthetic adropin treatment that reverses the deleterious effects of SAH.

Methods

We tested the molecular, cellular, and physiological responses of cultured brain microvascular endothelial cells and two mouse models of SAH to treatment using synthetic adropin peptide or vehicle.

Results

SAH decreases adropin expression in cultured brain microvascular endothelial cells and in murine brain tissue. In two validated mouse SAH models, synthetic adropin reduced cerebral edema, preserved tight junction protein expression, and abolished microthrombosis at 1 day post-SAH. Adropin treatment also prevented delayed cerebral vasospasm, decreased neuronal apoptosis, and reduced sensorimotor deficits at seven days post-SAH. Delaying initial treatment of adropin until 24 h post-SAH preserved the beneficial effect of adropin in preventing vasospasm and sensorimotor deficits. Mechanistically, adropin treatment increased eNOS phosphorylation (Ser1179) at 1 & 7 days post-SAH. Treating eNOS−/− mice with adropin failed to prevent vasospasm or behavioral deficits, indicating a requirement of eNOS signaling.

Conclusions

Adropin is an effective treatment for SAH, reducing cerebrovascular injury in both the acute (1 day) and delayed (7 days) phases. These findings establish the potential of adropin or adropin mimetics to improve outcomes following subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Application of modified porcine xenograft by collagen coating in the veterinary field: pre-clinical and clinical evaluations
Authors: Jo Hyun Min , Jang Kwangsik , Shim Kyung Mi , Bae Chunsik , Park Jung Bok , Kang Seong Soo , Kim Se Eun
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to identify a collagen-coating method that does not affect the physicochemical properties of bone graft material. Based on this, we developed a collagen-coated porcine xenograft and applied it to dogs to validate its effectiveness.

Methods

Xenografts and collagen were derived from porcine, and the collagen coating was performed through N-ethyl-N’-(3- (dimethylamino)propyl) carbodiimide/N-hydroxysuccinimide (EDC/NHS) activation. The physicochemical characteristics of the developed bone graft material were verified through field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), brunauer emmett teller (BET), attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), and water absorption test. Subsequently, the biocompatibility and bone healing effects were assessed using a rat calvarial defect model.

Results

The physicochemical test results confirmed that collagen coating increased bone graft materials’ surface roughness and fluid absorption but did not affect their porous structure. In vivo evaluations revealed that collagen coating had no adverse impact on the bone healing effect of bone graft materials. After confirming the biocompatibility and effectiveness, we applied the bone graft materials in two orthopedic cases and one dental case. Notably, successful fracture healing was observed in both orthopedic cases. In the dental case, successful bone regeneration was achieved without any loss of alveolar bone.

Discussion

This study demonstrated that porcine bone graft material promotes bone healing in dogs with its hemostatic and cohesive effects resulting from the collagen coating. Bone graft materials with enhanced biocompatibility through collagen coating are expected to be widely used in veterinary clinical practice.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation of a Questionnaire Measuring Organizational Citizenship Behavior towards the Environment
Authors: Manuel Candida Duarte , Magalhães Carla Rebelo , Huber Claudia Maria , Smerek Lukáš , Costa Artur Fernandes , Alves José Ribeiro
Published: March 2024

Translation, adaptation, and validation of instruments for cross-cultural investigation requires a rigorous methodological procedure that should be carefully planned to deliver instruments with adequate reliability and validity. This process was applied to a questionnaire measuring Organizational Citizenship Behavior toward the Environment (OCBE), Organizational Identification (OI), Environmental Responsibility (ER), and Green Human Resources Management (GHRM) in Portuguese and Slovak organizations. Several methodological procedures for cross-cultural adaptation and validation of questionnaires were analyzed, most of which used independent translators, experts’ analysis, and backward translation to the original language. In the present study, a procedure adapted from Beaton et al. (2000) was applied successfully, and the blind backward translations; expert committee; and the two pretests to assess content validity, functional equivalence, and clarity proved to be worthy. The psychometric properties were measured using a sample from Portugal (N = 122) and Slovakia (N = 269). Although employees were perceiving neither a strong environmental responsibility of their organizations nor strong green human resources management, they identified themselves with the organizations and engaged in OCBEs. Comparing both countries, the factorial structure was remarkably similar, highlighting the eco-helping actions and eco-civic engagement of OCBEs. Comparing both countries, the factorial structure was remarkably similar, highlighting the eco-helping actions and eco-civic engagement of OCBEs. The results indicated that the translated instrument was functionally equivalent to the original one, valid (scale CVI/Ave > 0.83), and reliable (Scale Alpha > 0.733) for evaluating the effect of employee practices and organization management in promoting and supporting environmental sustainability.
Andrographolide Ameliorates Inflammatory Changes Induced by D-Lactate in Bovine Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes
Authors: Teuber Stefanie , Manosalva Carolina , Alarcón Pablo , Quiroga John , Pantoja Diana , Hidalgo María Angélica , Morán Gabriel , Burgos Rafael Agustín
Published: March 2024

During acute ruminal acidosis, the manifestation of aseptic polysynovitis and lameness in cattle has been observed. Evidence suggests that joint inflammation can be attributed to the metabolic alterations induced by D-lactate in fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs). We aimed to investigate whether andrographolide could mitigate the inflammation and metabolic alterations induced by D-lactate in bovine fibroblast-like synoviocytes (bFLSs). To assess this, bFLSs were cultured in the presence or absence of andrographolide. We evaluated its potential interference with the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, COX-2, HIF-1α, and LDHA using RT-qPCR. Furthermore, we investigated its potential interference with PI3K/Akt signaling and IκBα degradation through immunoblotting and flow cytometry, respectively. Our observations revealed that andrographolide reduced the elevation of IL-6, IL-8, COX-2, HIF-1α, and LDHA induced by D-lactate. Additionally, andrographolide demonstrated interference with the PI3K/Akt and NF-κB pathways in bFLSs. In conclusion, our findings suggest that andrographolide can potentially reverse the inflammatory effects and metabolic changes induced by D-lactate in bFLSs, showing promise as a therapeutic intervention for managing these conditions associated with lameness.
Measurement of Tear Production and Intraocular Pressure in Clinically Conscious Normal Captive Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
Authors: Kovalcuka Liga , Malniece Aija
Published: March 2024

Normal values of tear production (STT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) have not been reported in conscious red deer to date. The objective was to determine the normal range of STT and IOP in clinically healthy, conscious red deer (Cervus elaphus) by utilizing a chute restraint. A total of 60 red deer were examined in this study. Both eyes of all red deer underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, including evaluation of tear production with the Schirmer tear test (STT) and assessment of intraocular pressure (IOP) with rebound tonometry, employing the TonoVet® device. The mean ± standard deviation of STT values were 18.35 ± 4.54 mm/30 s in the right eye and 17.87 ± 4.12 mm/30 s in the left; for both eyes, 18.11 ± 4.33 mm/30 s, with a reference range of 17.33–18.89 mm/30 s. IOP was as follows: 26.96 ± 4.42 mmHg in the right eye and 26.67 ± 3.80 mmHg in the left; for both eyes, it was 26.81 ± 4.11 mmHg, with a reference range of 26.07–27.55 mm/30 s. No statistically significant differences were observed between the IOP and STT values of the right and left eyes. This study provides a reference range for the STT and IOP in healthy red deer, showing that STT determination of tear production, and rebound tonometry to evaluate the IOP methods, are practical methods for ophthalmic examination in deer.