bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and interannual variation of fish communities in the Wailingding marine ranching area of Zhuhai in spring
Authors: Yuan Huarong , Chen Pimao , Chen Yuxiang , Zhang Shouyu
Published: November 2024

The changes in fish community structure hold profound implications for our under-standing of the stability and sustainability of marine ecosystems. To uncover the evolving trends in the fish community structure of the Wailingding marine ranching area, this study analyzed fishery resource survey data collected in April 2020 and March 2023, employed methods such as the relative importance index, Bray–Curtis clustering, similarity percentage (SIMPER) analysis, biomass spectrum, ABC curves, and redundancy analysis to analyze the interannual changes and stability characteristics of fish community structure in spring. The results indicate that 26 and 62 fish species were captured in spring 2020 and 2023, respectively, with Thrissa kammalensis and Leiognathus ruconius merging as the dominant species in each year. In 2020, warm water, upper-middle fish species predominated, followed by a shift to warm water, demersal, and benthic species in 2023. Cluster analysis revealed distinct spatial patterns, with fish communities in both years divisible into three discernible groups. SIMPER analysis identified T. kammalensis in 2020 and L. ruconius in 2023 as the main typical species of the fish communities, with Pampus argenteus and Dasyatis zugei as the primary discriminating species between communities, respectively. The slopes of the standard biomass spectra for both year were less than -1, indicating a decline in the overall biomass of the fish community, particularly among larger-bodied species. ABC curve analysis indicated that the fish community in spring 2020 was in a state of moderate disturbance (W=0.225), while in spring 2023, it was in a state of severe disturbance (W=-0.145). The primary environmental factors influencing fish community distribution in both springs were water temperature, depth, and salinity. In summary, the Wailingding marine ranching area has experienced a transition in dominant fish species towards smaller forage fish species, typified by L. ruconius. The level of disturbance experienced by fish communities is progressively intensifying, leading to a decline in the structural stability. Concurrently, there has been an increase in the biomass of reef-associated and reef-dependent fish species.
Pleiotropic cellular responses underlying antibiotic tolerance in Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Cho Eunshin , Kim Jinshil , Hur Jeong In , Ryu Sangryeol , Jeon Byeonghwa
Published: November 2024

Antibiotic tolerance enables antibiotic-susceptible bacteria to withstand prolonged exposure to high concentrations of antibiotics. Although antibiotic tolerance presents a major challenge for public health, its underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Previously, we have demonstrated that Campylobacter jejuni develops tolerance to clinically important antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin and tetracycline. To identify cellular responses associated with antibiotic tolerance, RNA-sequencing was conducted on C. jejuni after inducing antibiotic tolerance through exposure to ciprofloxacin or tetracycline. Additionally, knockout mutants were constructed for genes exhibiting significant changes in expression levels during antibiotic tolerance. The genes involved in protein chaperones, bacterial motility, DNA repair system, drug efflux pump, and iron homeostasis were significantly upregulated during antibiotic tolerance. These mutants displayed markedly reduced viability compared to the wild-type strain, indicating the critical role of these cellular responses in sustaining antibiotic tolerance. Notably, the protein chaperone mutants exhibited increased protein aggregation under antibiotic treatment, suggesting that protein chaperones play a critical role in managing protein disaggregation and facilitating survival during antibiotic tolerance. Our findings demonstrate that various cellular defense mechanisms collectively contribute to sustaining antibiotic tolerance in C. jejuni, providing novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying antibiotic tolerance.
Compost mediates the recruitment of core bacterial communities in alfalfa roots to enhance their productivity potential in saline-sodic soils
Authors: Wei Tian-Jiao , Li Guang , Cui Yan-Ru , Xie Jiao , Teng Xing , Wang Yan-Jing , Li Zhong-He , Guan Fa-Chun , Liang Zheng-Wei
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Composting is one of the effective environmental protection and sustainable measures for improving soil quality and increasing crop yield. However, due to the special physical and chemical properties of saline-sodic soil and the complex rhizosphere microecological environment, the potential mechanism of regulating plant growth after applying compost in saline-sodic soil remains elusive.

Methods

Here, we investigated the effects of different compost addition rates (0, 5, 15, 25%) on plant growth traits, soil chemical properties, and rhizosphere bacterial community structure.

Results

The results showed that compost promoted the accumulation of plant biomass and root growth, increased soil nutrients, and enhanced the diversity and complexity of the rhizosphere bacterial communities. Moreover, the enriched core bacterial ASVs (Amplicon Sequence Variants) in compost treatment could be reshaped, mainly including dominant genera, such as Pseudomonas, Devosia, Novosphingobium, Flavobacterium, and Allorhizobium-Neorhizobium-Pararhizobium-Rhizobium. The functions of these ASVs were energy resources and nitrogen cycle functions, suggesting the roles of these ASVs in improving plant root nutrient resource acquisition for alfalfa growth. The contents of available potassium, available phosphorus, total nitrogen, and organic carbon of the soil surrounding the roots, the root length, root surface area, root volume, and root tips affected the abundance of the core bacterial ASVs, and the soil chemical properties contributed more to the effect of plant biomass.

Discussion

Overall, our study strengthens the understanding of the potentially important taxa structure and function of plant rhizosphere bacteria communities, and provides an important reference for developing agricultural microbiome engineering techniques to improve root nutrient uptake and increase plant productivity in saline-sodic soils.
Precision-engineered PROTACs minimize off-tissue effects in cancer therapy
Authors: Shi Jianghua , Wang Luo , Zeng Xuanwei , Xie Chengzhi , Meng Zhaowei , Campbell Anahit , Wang Lulu , Fan Heli , Sun Huabing
Published: November 2024

Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) offer a groundbreaking approach to selectively degrade disease-related proteins by utilizing the ubiquitin-proteasome system. While this strategy shows great potential in preclinical and clinical settings, off-tissue effects remain a major challenge, leading to toxicity in healthy tissues. This review explores recent advancements aimed at improving PROTAC specificity, including tumor-specific ligand-directed PROTACs, pro-PROTACs activated in tumor environments, and E3 ligase overexpression strategies. Innovations such as PEGylation and nanotechnology also play a role in optimizing PROTAC efficacy. These developments hold promise for safer, more effective cancer therapies, though challenges remain for clinical translation.
Higher soluble TREM-1 levels are associated with cognitive impairment after acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Yi Xin , Fu Wei , Wu Yong , Zhong Xingju , Fan Chaoli , Jiang Yu , Zhou Qi , Peng Jie , Liao Jieyu , You Zhike , Tan Jingyu
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1) was reported to be critical for mediating the neurological function after stroke, while the impact of soluble TREM-1 (sTREM-1) on cognitive impairment after ischemic stroke is unclear. We aimed to explore the association between sTREM-1 and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI).

Methods

We prospectively recruited consecutive ischemic stroke patients who admitted hospital within 7 days of onset. Serum sTREM-1 concentrations were measured after admission. Cognitive function was assessed at 90 days follow-up using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). PSCI was defined as a MMSE score of <27 or a MoCA score < 26.

Results

A total of 291 patients (mean age, 66.6 years; 46.0% female) were enrolled for this study. Among these participants, the median sTREM-1 concentrations were 289.4 pg/mL. According to the MoCA score, 153 (52.6%) patients experienced PSCI at 3 months. After adjustment for confounding risk factors by multivariate regression analysis, patients with sTREM-1 levels in the fourth quartile were more likely to have increased risk 3-month PSCI (as compared with the first quartile, odds ratio 12.22, 95% confidence intervals, 5.20–28.71, P = 0.001). Restricted cubic spline further confirmed a dose-dependent relationship between sTREM-1 levels and PSCI (P = 0.003 for linearity). Similar significant findings were observed when the cognitive impairment was diagnosed according to the MMSE criterion.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that higher serum sTREM-1 levels at admission were associated with increased risk of 3-month PSCI.
Prognostic value of thrombocytopenia during hospitalizations in intracerebral hemorrhage patients
Authors: Feng Hao , Luo Xiaoquan , Fu Anhui , Wang Ruoran , Qiao Fei
Published: November 2024

Background

The thrombocytopenia influences prognoses of critically ill patients. There are few studies exploring the prognostic value of thrombocytopenia among ICH patients. We perform this study to explore the correlation between thrombocytopenia at different timepoints of hospitalizations and mortality of ICH.

Methods

ICH patients recorded in the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-III were selected for this observational study. The thrombocytopenia, defined as platelet <150 × 109/L, was divided into three categories: baseline thrombocytopenia (thrombocytopenia occurred at admission), acquired thrombocytopenia (thrombocytopenia developed since the second day after admission), multiple thrombocytopenia (baseline thrombocytopenia + acquired thrombocytopenia). The main outcome in this study was the 30-day mortality of ICH patients. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression was sequentially performed to discover risk factors of mortality and confirm the correlation between thrombocytopenia groups and mortality of ICH.

Results

66.5% of 902 ICH patients did not experience the thrombocytopenia since admission. 2.2, 14.5 and 16.7% ICH patients showed the baseline thrombocytopenia, acquired thrombocytopenia initial and multiple thrombocytopenia, respectively. The GCS did not show significant difference between thrombocytopenia groups (p = 0.118). The multiple thrombocytopenia group had the highest incidence of mechanical ventilation (p = 0.041), mortality (p < 0.001), and the longest length of ICU stay (p < 0.001), length of hospital stay (p < 0.001). The multivariate logistic regression found age (p < 0.001), GCS (p < 0.001), glucose (p = 0.013), mechanical ventilation (p = 0.002) was correlated with the mortality of ICH patients. Only the multiple thrombocytopenia group showed significant influence on the mortality of ICH (p = 0.002) in the multivariate logistic regression.

Conclusion

Single initial thrombocytopenia at admission dose not influence the mortality of ICH patients. ICH patients experiencing both initial thrombocytopenia and acquired thrombocytopenia have significantly higher mortality risk. The blood platelet level of ICH patients should be monitored continuously during hospitalizations to detect the thrombocytopenia and identify the high risk of poor prognosis.
Italian standardization of the BPSD-SINDEM scale for the assessment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in persons with dementia
Authors: Pozzi Federico Emanuele , D'Antonio Fabrizia , Zuffi Marta , Pelati Oriana , Vernè Davide , Panigutti Massimiliano , Alberoni Margherita , Di Maggio Maria Grazia , Costa Alfredo ,   Sindem BPSD Study Group, Tremolizzo Lucio , Farina Elisabetta
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) are a heterogeneous set of psychological reactions and abnormal behaviors in people with dementia (PwD). Current assessment tools, like the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), only rely on caregiver assessment of BPSD and are therefore prone to bias.

Materials and methods

A multidisciplinary team developed the BPSD-SINDEM scale as a three-part instrument, with two questionnaires administered to the caregiver (evaluating BPSD extent and caregiver distress) and a clinician-rated observational scale. This first instrument was tested on a sample of 33 dyads of PwD and their caregivers, and the results were qualitatively appraised in order to revise the tool through a modified Delphi method. During this phase, the wording of the questions was slightly changed, and the distress scale was changed into a coping scale based on the high correlation between extent and distress (r = 0.94). The final version consisted of three 17-item subscales, evaluating BPSD extent and caregiver coping, and the unchanged clinician-rated observational scale.

Results

This tool was quantitatively validated in a sample of 208 dyads. It demonstrated good concurrent validity, with the extent subscale correlating positively with NPI scores (r = 0.64, p < 0.001) and the coping subscale inversely correlating with NPI distress (r = −0.20, p = 0.004). Diagnosis (Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia), medication (antidepressants and antipsychotics), caregiver, and PwD age predicted BPSD burden on the BPSD-SINDEM scale. Caregiver coping was influenced by diagnosis (Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia) and benzodiazepine.

Discussion

The BPSD-SINDEM scale offers a more comprehensive approach compared to NPI, by combining caregiver ratings with clinician observations. The design of the scale allows for rapid administration in diverse clinical contexts, with the potential to enhance the understanding and management of BPSD.
Evaluation of motor fluctuations in Parkinson’s disease: electronic vs. conventional paper diaries
Authors: Asai Kanako , Kawahara Sayo , Shirahata Emi , Iwasaki Kimihiro , Nakai Hikoichiro , Kajiyama Yuta , Taniguchi Seira , Ge Lindun , Kakuda Keita , Kimura Yasuyoshi , Miyahara Tadashi , Ueda Hiroki R. , Ikenaka Kensuke , Mochizuki Hideki
Published: November 2024

Background

Paper symptom diaries are a common tool for assessing motor fluctuations in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients, but there are concerns about inaccuracies in the assessment of motor fluctuation due to recall bias and poor compliance. We, therefore, developed an electronic diary with reminder and real-time recording functions.

Objectives and methods

To evaluate the effectiveness of the electronic diary, we compared compliance and motor fluctuation assessment with a paper diary. Nineteen PD patients were recruited and recorded paper diaries every 30 min from 8 am to 8 pm for 7 days, followed by 7 days of electronic diary recording using a smartphone and smartwatch. Prior to the recording period, the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ)-39 and the Movement Disorders Society-sponsored Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale-Revised (MDS-UPDRS) 1, 2, 3, 4 were measured. Patients completed a patient questionnaire on the usability of the diaries after the recording period.

Results

Total reported time was significantly longer in paper diaries, but there was no significant difference in the number of entries (paper 115 [71–147] vs. electronic 109 [93–116], p = 0.77). There was a significant correlation between paper and electronic diaries with respect to motor status. ON time rate recorded in the electronic diary was significantly correlated with PDQ-39, MDS-UPDRS 1, 2, and 4, while MDS-UPDRS 1 was only correlated with ON time rate in the paper diary. The usability of our electronic diary was found to be satisfactory based on the results of patient questionnaire.

Conclusion

Electronic diaries are useful tools that more accurately reflect PD motor fluctuations.
Trajectory of psychological distress and influencing factors in patients with gynecological cancers: a longitudinal study
Authors: Li Feifei , Xu Jing , He Yueyuan , Zhang Shanhong
Published: November 2024

Objective

To explore the dynamic changes of psychological distress among patients with gynecological cancers across their treatment journey and identify the characteristics of subgroups of patients with distinct trajectories.

Methods

This study included a convenience sample of 132 patients with cervical cancer, ovarian cancer or endometrial cancer who received surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy in the gynecological department of a Grade III and Class A general hospital in Liaoning Province between November 2022 and October 2023. Patients’ mean age was 55.46 ± 11.12 years. Psychological distress was measured with the Distress Thermometer and Problem List 1 day before surgery, before the first chemotherapy session, at the third chemotherapy session, and at the end of the last chemotherapy session. A latent class growth model (LCGM) was used to identify trajectories of psychological distress and explore influencing factors.

Results

The LCGM identified three different trajectories of psychological distress in patients with gynecological cancers, including Class 1, “high level decline “ (37.4%), Class 2, “no psychological distress” (24.1%), and Class 3, “high level stable” (38.5%). Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed monthly per capita household income, disease type, positive coping style and temperament type were significant predictors of trajectory of psychological distress in patients with gynecological cancers.

Conclusions

This study showed heterogeneity in the trajectory of psychological distress among patients with gynecological cancers. These findings should raise awareness among healthcare providers of the need to implement screening measures and timely psychological interventions in this patient population.
Identification of key genes associated with endometriosis and endometrial cancer by bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Ma Ruyue , Zheng Yu , Wang Jianing , Xu Hong , Zhang Ruirui , Xie Zhijia , Zhang Lei , Zhao Ruiheng
Published: November 2024

Background

Endometriosis (EMS) is acknowledged as a risk factor for the development of endometrial cancer (EC), although the precise molecular mechanisms that underpin this association have yet to be fully elucidated. The primary objective of this investigation is to harness bioinformatics methodologies to identify pivotal genes and pathways that may be implicated in both EMS and EC, potentially offering novel therapeutic biomarkers for the management of endometriosis.

Methods

We acquired four datasets pertaining to EMS and one dataset concerning EC from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in EMS and EC cohorts, in comparison to controls, were ascertained utilizing the limma package. Subsequently, we conducted a series of bioinformatic analyses, including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis, to delineate pathways associated with the identified DEGs.

Results

Our bioinformatics analyses disclosed 141 shared DEGs between EMS and EC groups relative to the control cohort. GO analysis demonstrated that these genes are predominantly involved in the regulation of growth and development, as well as signal transduction pathways. KEGG analysis underscored the significance of these genes in relation to the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and leukocyte transendothelial migration. Furthermore, PPI analysis pinpointed ten central genes (APOE, FGF9, TIMP1, BGN, C1QB, MX1, SIGLEC1, BST2, ICAM1, MME) exhibiting high interconnectivity. Notably, the expression levels of APOE, BGN, C1QB, and BST2 were found to correlate with cancer genomic atlas data, and were implicated in tumor immune infiltration. Strikingly, only APOE and BGN demonstrated a significant correlation with patient prognosis.

Conclusion

This comprehensive bioinformatics analysis has successfully identified key genes that may serve as potential biomarkers for EC. These findings significantly enhance our comprehension of the molecular underpinnings of EC pathogenesis and prognosis, and hold promise for the identification of novel drug targets.
Correlation analysis of preoperative renal insufficiency with major complications in patients who received a radical cystectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection: results of a retrospective observational analysis from a single center
Authors: Wang Haixin , Huang Haiwen , Hao Han , Xi Zhijun
Published: November 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the factors affecting the major complications and the impacts of preoperative renal function on the incidence of complications in radical cystectomy procedures.

Methods

A retrospective review of 705 patients who received radical cystectomy between 2006 and 2021 was conducted. The 90-day complications of patients after a radical cystectomy were reported and the Clavien–Dindo classification (CDC) was used for grading complications. The clinical characteristics and preoperative outcomes were compared among patients with different preoperative renal functions. A logistic regression analysis of all patients was used to identify the risk factors associated with the major complications. Spearman’s correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between the classification of renal insufficiency and the CDC. In order to reduce the selection bias, one-to-one propensity score matching was performed, and the comparison of complications after matching was carried out for the sensitivity analysis.

Results

Within 90 days post-surgery, 71% of patients experienced complications, with 4.8% of them being major. Patients with preoperative renal insufficiency had a higher CDC and had a higher rate of major complications (16.7% vs 3.7%, p < 0.001). There was a linear relationship between preoperative serum creatinine and complications. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a slightly positive correlation between the classification of renal insufficiency and the CDC (r=0.094, p = 0.013). Preoperative renal insufficiency was a risk factor for major complications (OR = 6.805 [95%CI: 2.706-17.112]; p < 0.001). After matching, the patients in the preoperative renal insufficiency group had a higher CDC and a higher incidence of major complications (16.9% vs 1.7%, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

In our cohort, patients with preoperative renal insufficiency exhibited a higher incidence of complications following a radical cystectomy, and renal insufficiency was a significant risk factor for major complications.
Arginine supplementation improves lactate dehydrogenase levels in steady-state sickle cell patients: preliminary findings from Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Ngonde Ange C. M. , Lukanu Philippe N. , Mubiala Ange , Aloni Michel N.
Published: November 2024

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) disrupts oxygen transport due to the abnormal shape and rigidity of red blood cells, leading to hemolysis. Hemolysis, a major co-morbidity in SCD, is indicated by elevated levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Arginine depletion, which is essential for nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, contributes to various complications in SCD. L-arginine supplementation may increase NO levels and reduce oxidative stress. Research on its benefits in SCD, which is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, is limited. This study evaluates the effect of arginine supplementation on LDH levels in patients with steady state SCD.

Methods

In a retrospective study, we evaluated the effect of arginine supplementation on LDH levels in a cohort of 31 patients. We divided the study into three phases: pre-HU treatment, HU treatment, and combined HU and arginine supplementation.

Results

The cohort had a median age of 12 years, ranging from 2 to 43 years. Throughout all three phases of the study, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were consistently above the established normal ranges, with elevations of 216.7%, 220.3% and 176.6% above the normative values for baseline, Phase 1 (HU) and Phase 2 (HU + Arg), respectively. Specifically, LDH levels were 649.7 ± 364.2 U/L in Baseline Phase, 661.6 ± 367 U/L in Phase 1, and 529.9 ± 346.3 U/L in Phase 2. When comparing these discrete study intervals, it is noteworthy that LDH levels were significantly lower in Phase 2 compared to the previous phases (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Preliminary findings revealed a significant lower LDH levels among sickle cell patients receiving combined arginine supplementation and hydroxyurea (HU). Although these findings are promising, their credibility and applicability require further and more extensive research.
Case Report: Exploring the clinical spectrum of LGMD R27: insights from a case study with homozygous pathogenic variant in the JAG2 gene
Authors: Nikitin Sergey , Melnik Evgeniya , Sharkova Inna , Murtazina Aysylu , Shchagina Olga , Zabnenkova Victoriia , Tsargush Vadim , Dadali Elena , Kutsev Sergey
Published: November 2024

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMD) constitute a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness and atrophy, predominantly affecting the muscles of the pelvic and shoulder girdles. LGMD R27, linked to biallelic pathogenic variants in the JAG2 gene, was recently described, and to date, only 27 cases has been published in three reports. Here, we present two siblings exhibiting a severe clinical phenotype of LGMD R27, associated with a novel JAG2 homozygous frameshift variant [c.3467_3470dup, p.(Pro1158AlafsTer22)] results in truncated protein with 21 amino acid substitution within the cytoplasmic domain of the Jagged2 protein.
The effect of haemoglobin and blood transfusion on preterm infant gut perfusion and injury
Authors: Howarth Claire , Mifsud Christian , Banerjee Jayanta , Eaton Simon , Leung Terence , Fleming Paul , Morris Joan , Aladangady Narendra
Published: November 2024

Introduction

There is significant uncertainty regarding the role that anaemia or red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) plays in the development of gut injury in preterm infants. This study evaluated Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) together with a range of known biomarkers of gut inflammation to identify their relationship with anaemia and RBCT.

Method

A prospective observational study of preterm infants born at <30 weeks gestation was conducted from birth until either 36 weeks post conceptional age or discharge home. Gut perfusion and biomarkers of gut injury were assessed weekly by: 60 min NIRS measurements (splanchnic tissue oxygenation index [sTOI] and fractional tissue oxygenation extraction [sFTOE]); stool calprotectin; urine intestinal and liver fatty acid binding proteins (I-FABPs and L-FABPs); and trefoil factor 3 (TFF-3). Exclusion criteria included Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR), and abnormal antenatal Dopplers. Haemoglobin (Hb) levels were measured in parallel with NIRS measurements. NIRS, together with urine and stool biomarkers of gut injury, were evaluated up to 72 h pre/post RBCT and pre/post measurements compared.

Results

Forty-eight infants were studied. Median (range) gestational age was 26 + 3 (23 + 0 to 29 + 6) weeks and birthweight 883.5 g (460–1,600). Seven (14.6%) infants developed ≥ Bells stage 2 NEC. 28 (58.3%), 5 (10.4%) and 24 (50%) infants had ECHO confirmed PDA, haemorrhagic parenchymal infarct (HPI) and IVH respectively. There were 22 episodes of sepsis. Infants were in the study for a median of 7.3 (1–13) weeks. There was no significant association between Hb divided into three categories (<80 g/L, 80–111.9 g/L and ≥120 g/L) or continuous values and sTOI, sFTOE or any of the gut injury biomarkers measured (p > 0.05). 283 RBCTs were administered; 117 (41.3%) within the first two weeks of life. Pre and post blood transfusion changes in splanchnic NIRS oxygenation, urine and stool gut injury biomarkers were measured in 165, 195 and 175 episodes of RBCT respectively. There was no significant post RBCT changes in splanchnic NIRS or gut injury biomarker levels (p > 0.05). However, post RBCT calprotectin was significantly reduced during the first 14 days of life (mean difference −114%, CI −185 to −42 & p 0.002).

Conclusion

There was no association between anaemia or RBCT with NIRS measurements of tissue oxygen saturation and biomarkers of intestinal inflammation or gut injury in preterm infants enrolled in this study. Further studies with standardised methods of examining the relationship between anaemia, RBCT and gut injury are needed.
On scaling of proton- boron fusion power in a nanosecond vacuum discharge
Authors: Kurilenkov Yu. K. , Andreev S. N.
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we present the results of further PiC simulations in the full electromagnetic code of the processes leading to the proton-boron reactions in a single device for plasma confinement, based on miniature nanosecond vacuum discharge (NVD) in a cylindrical geometry. In particular, we present and discuss in more detail the α particle output for the real electrodes geometry used in the first aneutronic proton–boron fusion experiments with NVD. It follows from them that the total yield of α particles was accumulated in the initial experiments due to only single head-on converging of protons and boron ions accelerated in a very narrow potential well to the discharge axis. Further, in search of the ways for optimizing of proton–boron fusion in NVD, we study the scaling of fusion power depending on the size of the virtual cathode (or the inner radius of the anode space). The results of the PiC simulations by KARAT code show that the number of the proton-boron reactions at anode space of NVD increases with the anode volume grow, and the α particles output turns out to be proportional to the value of anode radius in the range RA ≈ 0.1–0.5 cm. However, the number of proton-boron reactions reaches some saturation under RA growing at the fixed time of high voltage applied and value of the energy input. In general, the formation of a more voluminous potential well (wider in radius and extended along the discharge axis), with well–defined oscillations of protons and boron ions in it, provides a noticeable increase in the output of α particles.
Effect of 12 weeks of detraining and retraining on the cardiorespiratory fitness in a competitive master athlete: a case study
Authors: Lepers Romuald , Mater Adrien , Assadi Hervé , Zanou Nadège , Gremeaux Vincent , Place Nicolas
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study examined the physiological effects of 12 weeks of detraining and retraining in a highly trained master triathlete (age 53.8 years).

Methods

Variables associated with swimming, cycling, and running performance, including V˙O2max, peak power output (PPO), gross cycling efficiency (CE), running maximal aerobic velocity (MAV), running economy (RE), muscle strength, and body composition were assessed before the last race of the season (baseline), after 12 weeks of detraining, and after 12 weeks of retraining.

Results

Detraining resulted in a 9.1% and 10.9% decrease in relative V˙O2max for cycling and running, respectively. PPO and MAV declined by 12.7% and 8.6%, respectively. After detraining, CE decreased by 6.2%, and RE was 22% higher than the baseline. The maximal strength capacity of the knee extensor muscles decreased by an average of 8.2%. Body fat percentage increased from 10.5% to 13.8%, while lean mass decreased by 2.2 kg. After retraining, almost all variables returned to baseline or even slightly increased, except RE and lean mass, which did not return to baseline.

Conclusion

After 12 weeks of detraining, a lifelong master triathlete can regain his cardiorespiratory fitness (i.e., V˙O2max) with 12 weeks of progressive and structured retraining, but his running economy and lean mass remain slightly depressed.
Factors of migrant children’s participation in basic medical insurance in China: an empirical study based on DEMATEL-ISM method
Authors: Li Hongyan , Yang Chuanghao , Liu Zhiyang , Chen Zhihao
Published: November 2024

Background

Deepening medical insurance reform is pivotal in promoting fairness, inclusiveness, and sustainability within the system, particularly by enhancing coordination levels and strengthening the interconnection between medical insurance, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. In China, 71.09 million migrant children, who make up 23.86% of the total child population, exhibit lower participation rates in medical insurance compared to other groups. The health status of children serves as a crucial barometer for the country’s socioeconomic standing and the quality of its medical services. Therefore, the inclusion of migrant children in basic medical insurance is essential for elevating their health standards and contributing to the accumulation of human capital.

Method

This study employed the structural-dynamic-process-result framework derived from synergy theory. It identified 18 factors influencing the participation of migrant children in basic medical insurance. Utilizing the DEMATEL-ISM method, the research analyzed these factors, culminating in the development of a comprehensive five-level hierarchical structure model.

Result

The research identified the medical insurance system’s arrangements as central to influencing the participation of migrant children in medical insurance. The household registration system emerged as a critical factor with significant mandatory and motivational impacts. The study categorized the 18 influencing factors into three tiers: superficial inducing factors, intermediate influencing factors, and deep-rooted causal factors. These tiers demonstrate a complex web of interdependencies and influences, highlighting that encouraging migrant children’s participation in medical insurance is a multifaceted systemic endeavor. This process necessitates collaborative efforts from families, schools, markets, society, and government bodies.

Conclusion

To effectively foster the participation of migrant children in basic medical insurance, a strong focus on identifying and addressing core issues is required. This approach should be coupled with enhanced strategic planning and coordination skills to ensure that reforms and developmental strides are equitably beneficial. Recommendations include decentralizing children’s medical insurance from local constraints, refining insurance system design, elevating the level of medical insurance coordination, and boosting insurance participation efficiency. Additionally, fortifying the collaborative dynamics among healthcare, medical insurance, and pharmaceutical sectors is crucial in building a united front to support migrant children’s healthcare needs.
Does internet use promote the health of empty-nest older adults in rural China? The mediating role of social participation using a propensity score matching approach
Authors: Shen Li , Zheng Yawen , Wang Mengting , Pan Hong , Jian Wenqian , Yang Xudong , Wang Wei , Chen Li
Published: November 2024

Background

The rapid growth of internet use among older adults in rural China offers a unique opportunity to examine its potential impact on their health. This study seeks to explore the relationship between internet use and the emotional, physical, and cognitive health of empty-nest older adults in rural China, while also considering the mediating role of social participation in this relationship.

Methods

A total of 3,478 empty-nest older adults were selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) in 2020. Among them, 820 individuals were included in the study using a propensity score matching (PSM) method to reduce the impact of selection bias. The participants' depression, physical health, and cognitive health were measured using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale, and a composite cognition score, respectively. Social participation was assessed based on engagement in various activities over the past month.

Results

After controlling for confounding factors through PSM, it was found that older adults who used the internet exhibited significantly lower level of depression and higher physical health compared to older adults who did not use the internet. However, there was no significant difference in cognitive health between the two groups. The mediating effect analysis revealed that social participation partially mediated the relationship between internet use and physical health, but not emotional health.

Conclusion

The study suggests that internet use can improve emotional and physical health of older adults living in rural China without children at home, with social participation being a mediator in the relationship between internet use and physical health. Future research should explore the underlying mechanisms and develop targeted interventions to promote internet use and social engagement in this population.
Biological hazards of micro- and nanoplastic with adsorbents and additives
Authors: Hong Ah Reum , Kim Jin Su
Published: November 2024

With the increased worldwide production of plastics, interest in the biological hazards of microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP), which are widely distributed as environmental pollutants, has also increased. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the toxicological effects of MP and NP on in vitro and in vivo systems based on studies conducted over the past decade. We summarize key findings on how the type, size, and adsorbed substances of plastics, including chemical additives, impact organisms. Also, we address various exposure routes, such as ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact, and their biological effects on both aquatic and terrestrial organisms, as well as human health. Additionally, the review highlights the increased toxicity of MP and NP due to their smaller size and higher bioavailability, as well as the interactions between these particles and chemical additives. This review emphasizes the need for further research into the complex biological interactions and risks posed by the accumulation of MP and NP in the environment, while also proposing potential directions for future studies.
Minimum meal frequency and associated factors among children aged 6–23 months in Sub-Saharan Africa: a multilevel analysis of the demographic and health survey data
Authors: Tebeje Tsion Mulat , Abebe Mesfin , Tesfaye Solomon Hailemariam , Seboka Binyam Tariku , Argaw Girum Shibeshi , Seifu Beminate Lemma , Mare Kusse Urmale , Aragaw Fantu Mamo
Published: November 2024

Background

Worldwide, approximately half of all children are not provided the minimum meal frequency (MMF). Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) had the lowest proportion of children aged 6–23 months who met the requirements of the complementary feeding indicators, including MMF. Ensuring adequate meal frequency poses a challenge in numerous developing countries, particularly in regions characterized by low household food security, such as SSA. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of MMF and its associated factors in SSA via the most recent demographic and health survey data.

Methods

A total of 100,526 weighted samples from demographic and health survey datasets of 35 SSA countries were used. A multilevel Poisson regression model with robust variance was applied to identify factors associated with MMF, and the model with the lowest deviance was the best-fitted model. An adjusted prevalence ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported, and variables with a p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The pooled prevalence of MMF among children aged 6–23 months in SSA was 38.47% (95% CI: 34.97–41.97), which ranged from 21.41% in Liberia to 63.98% in Madagascar. According to the subgroup analysis, the pooled magnitude of MMF in central, west, east, and southern Africa was 36.42, 35.46, 39.97, and 50.69%, respectively. Marital status, maternal education level, sex of household head, working status, wealth index, media exposure, age of the child, postnatal check-up, breastfeeding status, residence, and SSA regions were significantly associated with minimum meal frequency.

Conclusion

Less than forty percent of infants and young children in SSA receive the minimum recommended meal frequency, which is relatively low. This presents a notable difficulty in efforts to prevent malnutrition and attain sustainable development goals related to health and nutrition on the continent. Therefore, priority should be given to empowering women, promoting breastfeeding and postnatal check-ups, targeting infants who just started complementary feeding, and spreading information through media.
Information needed for optimal immunization related to medical advice: an observational prospective cohort study protocol (INFORMed)
Authors: Wrenger Jennifer , Berger Bettina , Martin David D. , Jenetzky Ekkehart
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Today, accessing information on health issues is easier than ever. However, the flood of information can make decision-making difficult. Information can influence the intention for an action, yet the action often remains unpredictable. It is unclear if there is a relationship between the intention behavior gap and the wish for medical advice in parents of newborns as they have to deal with a number of vaccinations more than any other group of people. According to survey data, vaccine-hesitant people have less interest in vaccine advice.

Methods and design

This study aimed to validate and elaborate this finding in a specific population and in a prospective observational manner. This study protocol was registered: https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00030716, DRKS00030716. The specific objectives include a primary endpoint focused on the wish for advice among hesitant and non-hesitant parents. Secondary endpoints involve comparing parents in terms of their respective information needs, which will be assessed based on: (a) vaccination attitudes at 6 weeks, (b) actual action taken at 12 weeks, and (c) the consistency of their attitudes and decisions. Parents of infants up to 6-week-old will be recruited and asked before the first recommended vaccination period and thereafter when the infant is 12 weeks old. Participants will receive an online questionnaire focusing on the information and advice they would like to receive and have received. Vaccination attitudes will be assessed using the C7C questionnaire at 6 weeks and the actual action of taking the first vaccine at 12 weeks.

Discussion

INFORMed will provide data on information needs and wishes of young parents depending on their attitude toward vaccination. Based on the results, health literacy in parents can be improved and information strategies can be adapted.
Optimizing service caching in smart buildings: a dynamic approach for responsive IoT and edge computing integration in smart cities
Authors: Harrabi Mokhtar , Hamdi Abdelaziz , Bel Hadj Tahar Jamel
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This paper introduces a novel approach for optimizing service caching in smart buildings through the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing technologies. Traditional cloud-based solutions suffer from high latency and resource consumption, which limits the performance of smart city applications.

Methods

The proposed solution involves a dynamic crowdsourcing and caching algorithm that leverages IoT gateways and edge servers. This algorithm reduces latency and enhances responsiveness by prioritizing services for caching based on a newly developed efficiency metric. The metric takes into account cloud and edge-computed response times, memory usage, and service popularity.

Results

Experimental results show a reduction in average response time (ART) by up to 25% and a 15% improvement in resource utilization compared to traditional cloud-based methods.

Discussion

These findings underscore the potential of the proposed approach for resource-constrained environments and its suitability for smart city infrastructures. The results provide a foundation for further advancements in edge-based service optimization in smart cities.
Sleep quality, sleep quantity, and sleep timing: contrasts in Austrian and U.S. college students
Authors: Pilcher June J. , Rummel Elizabeth G. , Lamm Claus
Published: November 2024

Objective

The current study compared self-reported sleep in undergraduate students in Austria and the United States.

Methods

The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index responses from 292 Austrian university students (237 females) and 313 U.S. university students (189 females) were analyzed. In addition to the standard scoring procedure for the scale and the individual components of the scale, the data were also evaluated as separate sleep quality and sleep quantity factors using ANOVAs. Sleep timing (bedtime, wake-time, and midpoint) was also examined using independent t-tests.

Results

Austrian students reported better sleep quality and quantity than the U.S. students. In addition, Austrian students had more sleep disturbances and took longer to fall asleep but slept longer and used less sleep medication than U.S. students. Austrian students also went to bed earlier and woke up later than U.S. students.

Conclusions

The current results indicate that sleep in undergraduate students varies across countries. A major difference between the two groups of students was the university setting with the Austrian students living in a large urban area and the U.S. students living in a rural college town, suggesting that the environment could impact student sleep and sleep choices. Finally, the current data indicate that examining sleep quality as a separate factor from sleep quantity provides additional information about sleep in college students. Better documenting sleep and sleep habits in college students across different countries can address important differences that universities and societies can use to help improve sleep and wellbeing in their students.
Detailed surgical description of porcine vascularized thymus lobe transplantation
Authors: Gunes M. Esad , Fujiwara Sho , Wolbrom Daniel H. , Cadelina Alexander , Qudus Susan , Ekanayake-Alper Dilrukshi , Hajosi Dominik , Sachs David H. , Nowak Greg
Published: November 2024

Background

Despite advances in immunosuppressive therapies, chronic rejection and immunosuppression-related complications remain significant challenges in transplantation. Developing transplantation tolerance through thymus transplantation may offer a solution. This paper details our technique for procuring and transplanting porcine vascularized thymic lobes (VTL), which can be utilized to study and research allogeneic and xenogeneic transplantation models in large animals.

Methods

GalT-KO miniature swine (n = 16) and baboons (n = 12) were used for VTL transplantation. The right or left cervical thymic lobe was dissected, harvested with its artery and veins, and flushed with cold lactated Ringer's solution. VTL graft was transplanted intraabdominally in all animals.

Results

We performed non-survival (n = 2) and survival (n = 2) VTL autotransplants in pigs and xeno-VTL and kidney transplants in baboons (n = 12). All grafts immediately turned pink after reperfusion and had good blood inflow and outflow. Pigs in the survival autotransplant group were euthanized immediately post-operatively due to complications related to VTL donation. One baboon lost its graft due to antibody-mediated rejection, and another lost it due to venous thrombosis. Other baboons had no complications and survived until the endpoint.

Conclusion

Here, we describe our approach and experience in swine vascularized thymic lobe procurement and transplantation. The technique requires moderate surgical skills to achieve reproducible results. Living-donor VTL donation in pigs is not recommended due to the high risk of surgical complications related to the harvesting procedure.