bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between branched-chain amino acid levels and gastric cancer risk: large-scale prospective cohort study
Authors: Yu Liang , Bao Shiming , Zhu Feng , Xu Yanyan , Liu Yanwei , Jiang Runben , Yang Chuang , Cao Feng , Chen Wei , Li Pengtao
Published: November 2024

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) remains a malignancy with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Although branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) play a crucial role in various physiological and pathological processes, their specific relationship with risk of GC remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a large-scale prospective cohort from UK Biobank database. We evaluated the relationship between BCAA levels and risk of GC using Cox regression, Kaplan–Meier survival curves, the accelerated failure time (AFT) model, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis.

Results

During the follow-up of 12 years, 247,753 participants were included in the study. And the Cox regression analysis revealed that higher levels of isoleucine (HR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.48–0.89; p = 0.007), leucine (HR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.42–0.79; p < 0.001), valine (HR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.39–0.73; p < 0.001), and total BCAAs were associated with a reduced risk of GC (HR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.37–0.70; p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier curves and the AFT model confirmed that elevated BCAA levels significantly delayed the onset of GC. Additionally, RCS analysis identified nonlinear dose–response relationships between BCAAs and risk of GC. Stratified analyses indicated that the protective effect of BCAAs was consistent across various subgroups, with a more pronounced impact in older individuals without chronic diseases.

Conclusion

Elevated BCAA levels are significantly associated with a reduced risk of GC, particularly in older adults. This finding highlights the potential of BCAAs in GC prevention and suggests that future research and clinical practice should emphasize regulating BCAA levels.
Case report: Spindle cell sarcoma and pituitary adenoma in the sella region—a rare collision tumor
Authors: Ding Peng-fei , Zhu Ting , Cui Yue , Yan Hui-ying , Wang Yun-feng , Hang Chun-hua , Li Wei
Published: November 2024

Background

Collision tumors are defined as two or more distinctly bordered, mutually invasive tumors in the same anatomical region. Characterized by low incidence and lack of specificity, they often pose a significant challenge to disease diagnosis. Among these, collision tumors in the sella region are incredibly rare.

Case description

On 13 June 2023, the Department of Neurosurgery at Drum Tower Hospital admitted a patient with a pituitary adenoma in the sella region complicated by spindle cell sarcoma. After reviewing the literature, no related cases were reported. A patient presenting with complex clinical symptoms and preoperative imaging showing occupancy in the sella region is considered to have a recurrence of pituitary adenoma. After thorough preoperative evaluation and discussion, a trans-sphenoidal approach (with the aid of an endoscope) was performed to resect the pituitary lesions. Combined with postoperative pathological tissue and imaging, the patient was diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma (postoperative recurrence) in the sella region complicated by spindle cell sarcoma. The patient made a fair recovery and was discharged on the 8th postoperative day.

Conclusion

This case report aims to elucidate and discuss the diagnosis and screening of rare collision tumors in the sella region to reduce the misdiagnosis rate and provide accurate treatment.
The survival and safety of metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma treated with lenalidomide as second-line therapy: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Li Tao , Zhao Ying , Li Keren , Li Gong , Li Guangxin
Published: November 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly lethal and invasive cancer. Targeted and immunotherapies are the primary treatment options for unresectable advanced HCC. There are no recognized and consistent systemic follow-up treatments for patients with HCC who experience disease progression after first-line targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). According to a few studies, lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory drug that has the potential to be an effective treatment for patients who have progressed after treatment with targeted drugs and ICIs.

Case summary

This article focuses on a patient with HCC whose disease progressed after first-line targeted therapy and ICI therapy combined with lenalidomide as second-line therapy on the basis of the original targeted and ICI regimens, resulting in a favorable oncologic outcome with acceptable toxicity. The progression-free survival (PFS) of the patients in this study reached 3 years, which is much longer than that previously reported, and no progression has occurred thus far.

Conclusions

This case implies that in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who have failed first-line targeted therapy and ICIs, targeted therapy and ICIs can be restarted with the addition of lenalidomide, with surprising results.
Health-related quality of life in patients treated with en bloc resection for primary tumors of the spine
Authors: Noli Luigi Emanuele , Alcherigi Chiara , Griffoni Cristiana , Pesce Eleonora , Rosa Simona , Evangelisti Gisberto , Pipola Valerio , Davassi Paolo Francesco , Monetta Annalisa , Barbanti Brodano Giovanni , Terzi Silvia , Ghermandi Riccardo , Tedesco Giuseppe , Girolami Marco , Bandiera Stefano , Gasbarrini Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Study design

Retrospective analysis

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the functional outcomes and the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients undergoing en bloc resection of spinal tumor.

Summary of background data

En bloc resection in the spine is a surgical procedure designed to completely remove a tumor in one piece, with wide margins preserved, in order to reduce the risk of local recurrences. This demanding procedure has been shown to improve local control and survival rate, besides a relatively high morbidity.

Methods

Between 2016 and 2021, 70 patients underwent en bloc resection surgery for a primary spine tumor and 38 came out to be eligible for this analysis. Eligibility criteria include at least one follow-up visit within a two-year period from surgery and Patient Reported Outcomes evaluation collected prospectively at baseline and at least one follow- up in the range 4-24 months. The outcome variables (EQ5D Numeric Scale and Index, SF36 scores and NRS score) were analyzed with multilevel linear mixed-effects regression. Baseline- (age, gender, localization, histotype, number of levels of resection, previous surgery) and time-dependent covariates (adverse events, spinal cord damage) were included.

Results

Beside a slight improvement of all the scores, no significant differences were found between baseline and follow up times for EQ-5D-3L Numeric Scale and Index and for SF-36 Standardized Physical component. SF-36 Standardized Mental component appeared to be significantly better at 12-month FU compared to baseline. Ultimately, age over 50 years old and the occurrence of adverse events emerged to be as the two main factor determining worsening in several HRQOL scores. Pain came out to be significantly reduce at 24-month compared to baseline.

Conclusions

The aim of en bloc resection in the treatment of primary spinal tumors is to improve survival rates and reduce local recurrences. Despite its radicality, our preliminary results suggest that patients experience a slight to moderate improvement postoperatively compared to their preoperative perceived health status.
Mulberry leaf ameliorate STZ induced diabetic rat by regulating hepatic glycometabolism and fatty acid β-oxidation
Authors: Lv Bohan , Liu Siyuan , Li Yaqi , Li Zhigang , An Yongcheng , He Changhao , Zhang Huilin , Huang Yan , Fu Wanxin , Ma Quantao , Zhao Baosheng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disorder marked by disruptions in glucolipid metabolism, with numerous signaling pathways contributing to its progression. The liver, as the hub of glycolipid metabolism, plays a pivotal role in this context. Mulberry leaf (ML), a staple in traditional Chinese medicine, is widely utilized in the clinical management of T2D. Synthesizing existing literature with the outcomes of prior research, it has become evident that ML enhances glucose metabolism via multiple pathways.

Methods

In our study, we induced T2D in rats through a regimen of high-sugar and high-fat diet supplementation, coupled with intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin. We subsequently administered the aqueous extract of ML to these rats and assessed its efficacy using fasting blood glucose levels and other diagnostic indicators. Further, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the rats’ liver tissues using metabolomics and proteomics to gain insights into the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Our findings indicate that ML not only significantly alleviated the symptoms in T2D rats but also demonstrated the capacity to lower blood glucose levels. This was achieved by modulating the glucose-lipid metabolism and amino-terminal pathways within the liver. ACSL5, Dlat, Pdhb, G6pc, Mdh2, Cs, and other key enzymes in metabolic pathways regulated by ML may be the core targets of ML treatment for T2D.

Discussion

Mulberry leaf ameliorate STZ induced diabetic rat by regulating hepatic glycometabolism and fatty acid β-oxidation.
Machine learning models can predict cancer-associated disseminated intravascular coagulation in critically ill colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Qin Li , Mao Jieling , Gao Min , Xie Jingwen , Liang Zhikun , Li Xiaoyan
Published: November 2024

Background

Due to its complex pathogenesis, the assessment of cancer-associated disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is challenging. We aimed to develop a machine learning (ML) model to predict overt DIC in critically ill colorectal cancer (CRC) patients using clinical features and laboratory indicators.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled consecutive CRC patients admitted to the intensive care unit from January 2018 to December 2023. Four ML algorithms were used to construct predictive models using 5-fold cross-validation. The models’ performance in predicting overt DIC and 30-day mortality was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC-AUC) and Cox regression analysis. The performance of three established scoring systems, ISTH DIC-2001, ISTH DIC-2018, and JAAM DIC, was also assessed for survival prediction and served as benchmarks for model comparison.

Results

A total of 2,766 patients were enrolled, with 699 (25.3%) diagnosed with overt DIC according to ISTH DIC-2001, 1,023 (36.9%) according to ISTH DIC-2018, and 662 (23.9%) according to JAAM DIC. The extreme gradient boosting (XGB) model outperformed others in DIC prediction (ROC-AUC: 0.848; 95% CI: 0.818–0.878; p < 0.01) and mortality prediction (ROC-AUC: 0.708; 95% CI: 0.646–0.768; p < 0.01). The three DIC scores predicted 30-day mortality with ROC-AUCs of 0.658 for ISTH DIC-2001, 0.692 for ISTH DIC-2018, and 0.673 for JAAM DIC.

Conclusion

The results indicate that ML models, particularly the XGB model, can serve as effective tools for predicting overt DIC in critically ill CRC patients. This offers a promising approach to improving clinical decision-making in this high-risk group.
Effects of Huang-Lian-Jie-Du decoction on improving skin barrier function and modulating T helper cell differentiation in 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis mice
Authors: Zhang Huiyuan , Li Quanbin , Li Yaxing , Guan Jianhua , Li Kaidi , Chen Yunlong
Published: November 2024

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is among the most frequently encountered skin diseases, bothering a considerable number of patients. Today, corticosteroids and antihistamines are among the numerous drugs applied for the therapy of AD. However, lengthy use of them contributes to side effects, such as physiological changes in skin. As an alternative and supplementary therapy, traditional Chinese medicine has become a trend for AD treatment. Huang-Lian-Jie-Du decoction (HLJDD), a renowned herbal formula has been employed to treat inflammatory diseases such as AD. However, its role in regulating immunity in AD remains unclear. The object of this study was to elucidate the efficacy of HLJDD and reveal the implicit mechanism from an immunological perspective in AD-like mice.

Methods: In brief, 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) for the sensitization phase (1% DNCB) and stimulation phase (1.5% DNCB) were applied for BALB/c mice. HLJDD and dexamethasone (DXMS) were administered orally to the mice. Mice skin and spleens were collected to evaluate the efficacy of HLJDD. 16S rRNA sequencing was applied to evaluate the commensal microbiota changes in skin and fecal. In vitro, spleen CD4+ T cells and bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) were co-cultured to explore the modulation of HLJDD in T helper (Th) cells phenotyping.

Results: HLJDD showcased a substantial amelioration in skin through the upregulation of FLG, LOR, AQP3, and reducing scratching behaviors in AD-like mice, Also, the quantity of infiltrated mast cells (MCs), pruritus-related mRNA were decreased. In addition, the expression of OX40/OX40L was decreased by HLJDD, which was critical in Th-cell phenotyping. With the treatment of HLJDD, Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg ratios in AD-like mice became balanced. The structure of commensal microbiota in AD-like mice was affected by HLJDD. HLJDD could also improve the imbalance of Th17/Treg in vitro.

Conclusion: HLJDD could improve the symptoms of AD-like mice by alleviating the scratching behaviors via decreased Th2 and pruritus-related mRNA expression. HLJDD also enhanced the relative diversity of skin microbiota and changed the structure of intestinal microbiota. An in-depth study found that HLJDD could balance the ratio of Th1/Th2, Th17/Treg in AD-like mice, and Th17/Treg in vitro by regulating the OX40/OX40L signaling pathway.
Physio-biochemical responses of three sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) lines to phosphate solubilizing bacteria and phosphorous-enriched biochar in saline soils
Authors: Jahanshahi Siavash , Moaveni Payam , Ghaffari Mehdi , Mozafari Hamid , Alizadeh Bahram
Published: November 2024

The usage of microbes and biochar (BC) is fundamental in decreasing the impacts of salinity stress by promoting plant growth and development. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and phosphorous (P)-enriched BC on the plant growth and biochemical characteristics for three lines of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in saline soils. The study was designed with salinity at 100 mM NaCl and PSB (Bacillus subtilis) with 109 CFU and BC at 1500 Kg ha-1 in the sunflower lines including RGK38 (salt-sensitive), BGK35 (salt-moderately sensitive), and BGK259 (salt-tolerant) based on completely randomized block design (CRBD) in five replicates. Salinity considerably reduced grain yield, thousand grain weight (TGW), oil content, oil yield, chlorophyll (Chl) content, relative water content (RWC), K, and P, while enhancing malondialdehyde (MDA), electrolyte leakage (EL), Na+, and Cl- in all lines of sunflower with high rate in RGK38. The use of integrated PSB and BC contributed to increases in plant yield. In RGK38 exposed to salinity, PSB+BC raised grain yield (16%), oil yield (27%), RWC (14%), Chl a+b (24%), K (22%), P (127%), but lowered MDA (26%), Na+ (36%), and Cl- (41%). Heat map analysis revealed that RGK38 stood out significantly from the other two sunflower lines with the maximum variability under the treatments. MDA showed the most variability among the lines as an indicator of identifying the susceptibility to salinity, PSB, and BC. This study has encouraging implications for agricultural operations in stress-affected areas by highlighting the potential of combining PSB and BC as environmentally acceptable and sustainable ways to increase plant resilience in salty soils.
The ground reaction force pattern during walking under vestibular-demanding task with/without mastoid vibration: implication for future sensorimotor training in astronauts
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Xie Haoyu , Chien Jung Hung
Published: November 2024

Background

The Sensory Organization Test condition 5 (SOT5) assesses an astronaut’s vestibular function pre-/post-spaceflight but has a ceiling effect and mainly evaluates standing balance, neglecting the challenges of walking during space missions. A Locomotor Sensory Organization Test (LSOT) has been developed, mirroring the SOT concept but tailored to assess vestibular function during walking. This study aims to advance current knowledge by examining changes in ground reaction force (GRF) during normal walking (LSOT1) and walking in LSOT5 (vision blocked and treadmill speed varied), both with and without mastoid vibrations.

Methods

Sixty healthy adults were recruited and divided into two groups: one with mastoid vibration and one without. GRF peaks and respective variabilities were analyzed in the vertical (V), anterior-posterior (AP), and medial-lateral (ML) directions during stance cycles. The effects of LSOTs and mastoid vibration on each dependent variable were assessed using Friedman’s two-way analysis of variance by ranks.

Results

The findings revealed that:1) Walking in LSOT5 increased the variabilities of GRFs regardless of the administration of mastoid vibration; 2) the application of mastoid vibration reduced the amplitude of GRF peaks; and 3) walking in LSOT5 while receiving mastoid vibration was the most challenging task compared to all other tasks in this study.

Conclusion

The results indicated that analyzing GRF can detect changes in the strategy of balance control across different sensory-conflicted conditions. The findings could be beneficial for assessing the vestibular function pre- and post-space missions and planning for future sensorimotor training programs aimed at enhancing astronauts’ abilities to navigate unpredictable sensory-conflicted conditions.
Exploring the wound healing potential of dietary nitrate in diabetic rat model
Authors: Hu Xiaodan , Xu Haoyue , Bu Lingxue , Sun Jian , Deng Jiangzhi , Song Kai , Wang Lin , Pang Baoxing
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The wound healing in diabetes is hindered and prolonged due to long-term inflammation, oxidative stress damage, and angiogenesis disorders induced by high glucose status. The management of such difficult-to-treat wounds continues to pose a significant challenge in clinical treatment. Dietary nitrate, commonly found in greens such as beets and spinach, acts as a nutritional supplement and is metabolized in the body through the salivary nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway. This pathway plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, including enhancing blood flow and attenuating inflammation.

Methods

In this study, we established a diabetic rat wound model. Forty-eight rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 8): the Con group, the Con + Nitrate group, the STZ group, the STZ + NaCl group, the STZ + rhEGF group, and the STZ + Nitrate group. Skin wound healing was assessed on the day of surgery and on postoperative days 3, 7, 10, and 14. Specimens were taken on days 7 and 14 post-surgery for relevant tests.

Results

We found that dietary nitrate could accelerate skin wound healing by promoting angiogenesis and increasing blood perfusion. Significantly, dietary nitrate also regulated glucose and lipid metabolism and exhibited anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Discussion

These findings provide a novel theoretical basis for managing wounds in diabetic individuals, indicating the broad potential of dietary nitrate in future clinical applications.
Basic research and opportunities for translational advancement in the field of mammalian ∼12-hour ultradian chronobiology
Authors: Dion William , Zhu Bokai
Published: November 2024

Repetitive variations, such as oscillation, are ubiquitous in biology. In this mini review, we present a general summary of the ∼24 h circadian clock and provide a fundamental overview of another biological timekeeper that maintains ∼12 h oscillations. This ∼12 h oscillator is proposed to function independently of the circadian clock to regulate ultradian biological rhythms relevant to both protein homeostasis and liver health. Recent studies exploring these ∼12 h rhythms in humans are discussed, followed by our proposal that mammary gland physiology represents a promising area for further research. We conclude by highlighting potential translational applications in ∼12 h ultradian chronobiology.
Investigation of factors affecting fresh herbage yield in pea (Pisum arvense L.) using data mining algorithms
Authors: Çatal Muhammed İkbal , Çelik Şenol , Bakoğlu Adil
Published: November 2024

This study was carried out to determine the factors affecting the wet grass yield of pea plants grown in Turkey. Wet grass yield was predicted using parameters such as genotype, crude protein, crude ash, acid detergent fiber (ADF), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) with some data mining algorithms. These techniques provided easily interpretable data trees and precise cutoff values. This led to a comparison of the predictive abilities of data mining methods, including multivariate adaptive regression spline (MARS), Chi-square automatic interaction detection (CHAID), classification and regression tree (CART), and artificial neural network (ANN). To test the compatibility of the data mining algorithms, seven goodness-of-fit criteria were used. The predictive abilities of the fitted models were assessed using model fit statistics such as the coefficient of determination (R2), adjusted R2, root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), standard deviation ratio (SD ratio), Akaike information criterion (AIC), and corrected Akaike information criterion (AICc). With the greatest R2 and adjusted R2 values (0.998 and 0.986) and the lowest values of RMSE, MAPE, SD ratio, AIC, and AICc (10.499, 0.7365, 0.047, 268, and 688, respectively), the MARS method was determined to be the best model for quantifying plant fresh herbage yield. In estimating the fresh herbage production of the pea plant, the results showed that the MARS method was the most appropriate model and a good substitute for other data mining techniques.
Genome expression analysis of basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors in Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.)
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Du Gaigai , Zhang Guoyun , Zhang Jianguo , Diao Songfeng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor family is one of the largest gene families in plants, extensively involved in plant growth, organ development, and stress responses. However, limited studies of this family are available in sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides).

Methods

In this study, we identified 144 bHLH genes in H. rhamnoides (HrbHLH) through a genome-wide search method, then explored their DNA and protein sequences and physicochemical properties.

Results and discussion

According to the sequence similarities, we classified them into 15 groups with specific motif structures. To explore their expressions, we performed gene expression profiling using RNA-Seq and identified 122 HrbHLH mRNAs were highly expressed, while the remaining 22 HrbHLH genes were expressed at very low levels in all 21 samples. Among these HrbHLH genes, HrbHLH47, HrbHLH74, HrbHLH90, HrbHLH131 showed the highest expression level in the root nodule, root, leaf, stem and fruit tissues. Furthermore, eleven HrbHLH genes displayed increased expressions during the fruit development process of sea buckthorn. Finally, we validated the expression patterns of HrbHLH genes using reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (QPCR). This comprehensive analysis provides a useful esource that enables further investigation of the physiological roles and molecular functions of the HrbHLH TFs.
Correlation between benefit finding and caregiving abilities among family caregivers of patients with lung cancer: a network analysis
Authors: Lin Xiaoyuan , Xie Haidan , Chen Ziqing , Zhao Qi , Zhou Xiaozhou
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to construct a network analysis model for benefit finding (BF) and caregiving abilities to clarify the interrelationships and mutual influences among different dimensions and propose nursing strategies.

Methods

Convenience sampling was used to select 272 family caregivers of patients with lung cancer admitted to a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou City, China, from April 2023 to November 2023. Socio-demographic and disease characteristics questionnaire, the revised BF Scale, and the Family Caregiver Task Inventory (FCTI) were used for data collection. The R software was used to construct networks for BF and caregiving abilities, and network analysis methods were employed to identify network characteristics, core nodes, and bridge nodes.

Results

In the overall network, the social relationship dimension (rs = 3.04) exhibited the highest strength centrality index, followed by the family relationship dimension (rs = 2.94). In addition, the social relationship dimension (rbs = 0.30) had the highest bridge strength centrality index, followed by the dimension of addressing personal emotional needs (rbs = 0.26).

Conclusion

This study provides a new perspective on exploring the underlying mechanisms of interaction among different dimensions of BF and caregiving abilities in family caregivers of patients with lung cancer using network analysis. The findings suggest that healthcare professionals can improve family caregivers’ social relationships, family relationships and address emotion regulation to enhance BF and caregiving abilities. Specific nursing strategies are proposed, offering new intervention targets for enhancing BF and caregiving abilities among family caregivers of patients with lung cancer.
Prosocial behavior associated with trait mindfulness, psychological capital and moral identity among medical students: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Liu Nana , Cao Yanjun , Xu Haibo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

As future doctors, medical students’ prosocial behaviors may affect the relationship between doctors and patients. This study aims to explore the effects of trait mindfulness on prosocial behaviors, as well as the mediating role of psychological capital and the moderating role of moral identity among medical students.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between July and October 2023 across four medical colleges in China, using cluster random sampling. The questionnaire included general demographic information, the Prosocial Tendencies Measurement Scale, the Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, the Psychological Capital Questionnaire, and the Moral Identity Scale. The SPSS 25.0 and PROCESS v3.4 macro were used for descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and mediation and moderation analyses.

Results

A total of 2,285 samples were included. The analyses showed that prosocial behavior was positively correlated with trait mindfulness, psychological capital, and moral identity (r = 0.293, 0.444, and 0.528, p < 0.01); trait mindfulness predicts prosocial behavior (β = 0.292, 95% CI [0.253, 0.332]); and psychological capital played a partial mediation role between trait mindfulness and prosocial behaviors (β = 0.413, 95% CI [0.368, 0.459]). Furthermore, moral identity played the moderating roles between trait mindfulness and prosocial behavior (β = 0.049, 95% CI [0.011, 0.087]) and between PsyCap and prosocial behavior (β = 0.062, 95% CI [0.032, 0.092]).

Conclusion

Trait mindfulness, psychological capital, and moral identity are conducive to the development of medical students’ prosocial behavior. These findings provide evidence for the cultivation of prosocial behaviors and for the development of mental health courses, which should be tailored to medical students.
The impact of visual search in Chinese children with developmental dyslexia on reading comprehension: the mediating role of word detection skill and reading fluency
Authors: Meng Hu , Yao Ru , Zhang Pan , Wang Jialei , Zhang Yajing
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Previous research has highlighted the influence of visual search (VS) on reading comprehension (RC); however, the underlying mechanisms of this effect remain poorly understood, particularly in children with reading disabilities. This study explores disparities in VS, word detection skills (WD), reading fluency (RF), and RC between Chinese children with developmental dyslexia (DD) and their typically developing peers across different age groups.

Methods

The sample comprised 191 students from grades 2, 4, and 6, including 92 children with dyslexia and 99 chronological age-matched controls. Variance analysis was used to examine differences in VS, WD, RF, and RC performance. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to assess the relationships among these variables.

Results

Children with DD performed significantly worse than their typically developing peers on VS and RC tasks, with the most notable differences emerging in the middle and higher grades. Additionally, children with DD showed weaker WD skills and RF, with these disparities evident across all grade levels. SEM indicated that VS directly influences RC, with WD and RF serving as mediators in the relationship between VS and RC.

Discussion

These findings elucidate the complex interplay between visual processing and linguistic skills in reading development, particularly within the Chinese language context. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions for children with dyslexia, emphasizing strategies that address the unique challenges these learners face in Chinese reading environments.
Exploring mental health literacy and formal and informal help-seeking intentions among Palestinian adolescents in Israel: insights from the MHLS-Arabic-adolescents tool
Authors: Abo-Rass Fareeda
Published: November 2024

Background

Mental health literacy (MHL) is a crucial concept in mental health because it promotes positive mental health outcomes and behaviors across various demographics, including adolescents.

Aims

This study utilized the MHLS-Arabic-Adolescents tool to investigate MHL among Palestinian adolescents in Israel, aiming to explore its significance in determining intentions to seek formal and informal mental health help separately.

Methods

A cohort of 172 adolescents (with a mean age of 16.25 ± 1.25 years, comprising 64% females) completed assessments measuring their intention for both formal and informal help-seeking, levels of psychological distress, MHL, and various sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. This study uses the same dataset from previous research on formal help-seeking, with an expanded focus on informal help-seeking and MHL using an adapted tool.

Results

Participants reported medium to high levels of MHL factors, demonstrating stronger intentions to seek informal help compared to formal. “Knowledge of where to seek information” and “Attitude toward mental illness” emerged as the significant MHL factors determining formal help-seeking intentions, whereas ‘attitudes toward mental illness’ was identified as the sole determinant of intentions to seek informal help.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of MHL factors in shaping adolescents’ intentions to seek formal and informal mental health help. It emphasizes the need to strengthen informal support networks, improve adolescents’ attitudes toward mental illness, and facilitate access to mental health information. These insights offer valuable guidance for intervention programs aimed at promoting both formal and informal help-seeking behaviors among Palestinian Arab adolescents in Israel and similar groups.
Screening and verification of differentially expressed serum proteins in children with severe adenovirus pneumonia
Authors: Gao Zheng-Xiang , Xu Hong , Yang Qu , Xie Liang , Chen Li-Na , Liu Han-Min
Published: November 2024

Background

Human adenoviruses are prevalent pathogens that cause severe acute respiratory infections. The clinical presentation of the adenoviral pneumonia is varied; in severe cases, they may cause systemic multi-system damages. Currently, early clinical differential diagnosis is difficult under the existing testing methods, the study identified potential biomarkers by screening and validating differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), and aimed at distinguishing between severe and non-severe adenovirus pneumonia in children aged <14 years.

Methods

DEPs were identified using data-independent acquisition (DIA) quantitative proteomics technology, and potential biomarkers were further validated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Twenty-seven identical DEPs were found in patients with severe adenovirus pneumonia. Among these, 10 were downregulated, and 17 were upregulated. In the protein–protein interaction network, five proteins were located at the center of the functional network. Among these, E-selectin showed significantly higher serum expression levels in the severe adenoviral pneumonia group than in adenoviral pneumonia and control groups (p < 0.001). ELISA results were consistent with the proteomic analyses. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for E-selectin revealed a sensitivity of 79.31% and a specificity of 96.55%, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.92.

Conclusion

E-selectin has potential as a novel biomarker for severe adenoviral pneumonia, and offers insights for improved diagnosis and clinical management.
Resistin concentrations in perivascular adipose tissue as a highly sensitive marker of smoking status in patients with advanced coronary artery disease requiring coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Rachwalik Maciej , Sareło Przemysław , Obremska Marta , Matusiewicz Małgorzata , Sett Kaung Sithu , Czapla Michał , Jasiński Marek , Hurkacz Magdalena
Published: November 2024

Background

Smoking is a significant risk factor for numerous diseases, including coronary artery disease (CAD). Chronic inflammation from smoking affects endothelial function and may alter adipokine secretion, particularly resistin, in perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT). This study investigated the association between resistin concentrations in PVAT and smoking status in CAD patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Methods

The study included 110 patients with advanced CAD scheduled for CABG. Patients were categorized into never-smokers and ever-smokers, with the latter further divided into current and past smokers. Resistin concentrations in PVAT and plasma, along with plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) concentrations, were measured using ELISA.

Result

Significant differences in PVAT resistin concentrations were observed between never-smokers and ever-smokers (p < 0.0001), as well as between never-smokers and both current (p < 0.0001) and past smokers (p < 0.0001). PVAT resistin concentrations correlated positively with the number of pack-years (p < 0.0001) and plasma resistin (p < 0.0001) and IL-6 concentrations (p < 0.0001). Plasma resistin, IL-6, and hs-CRP concentrations were higher in ever-smokers compared with never-smokers. Multiple regression analysis indicated that smoking is significantly correlated with higher PVAT resistin concentrations, with increased pack-years (p = 0.0002), higher plasma resistin concentrations (p < 0.0001), and IL-6 concentrations (p < 0.0001), all contributing to elevated PVAT resistin.

Conclusion

Smoking status in advanced CAD patients requiring CABG is positively associated with PVAT resistin concentrations, with a clear demonstration of dose-dependency.
Findings from an expert focus group on psychotropic medication deprescribing practices for children and youth with complex needs
Authors: Theall Laura , Ninan Ajit , Currie Melissa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Psychotropic medication can be effective at stabilizing emotional and behavioural disturbances associated with physiological processes in children and youth. When medication benefits, indication or adverse effects are queried, deprescribing should be considered. Current guidelines for deprescribing are mainly for adults/elderly and largely theoretical, not practical, especially for polypharmacy.

Methods

At a tertiary center for children and youth with complex emotional and behavioural needs, physicians on staff have expertise in conducting assessments of medication efficacy, side effect burden, and safety concerns. Deprescribing is routinely undertaken in the context of inpatient and outpatient services in partnership with children/youth and their families. A qualitative initiative leveraged the specialized deprescribing expertise of eight physicians (six psychiatrists and two pediatricians).

Results

Emerging themes were medication review, timing, a stepwise approach, and setting conditions (inpatient and outpatient), with recurring subcategories of patient/family engagement as well as the underlying importance of continuity of care with psychosocial/behavioural supports.

Discussion

The findings from this expert focus group serve as a step towards supporting prescribing clinicians in mindful deprescribing when medications are no longer in the best interest of young patients.
Fine-scale surficial soil moisture mapping using UAS-based L-band remote sensing in a mixed oak-grassland landscape
Authors: Stern Michelle , Ferrell Ryan , Flint Lorraine , Kozanitas Melina , Ackerly David , Elston Jack , Stachura Maciej , Dai Eryan , Thorne James
Published: November 2024

Soil moisture maps provide quantitative information that, along with climate and energy balance, is critical to integrate with hydrologic processes for characterizing landscape conditions. However, soil moisture maps are difficult to produce for natural landscapes because of vegetation cover and complex topography. Satellite-based L-band microwave sensors are commonly used to develop spatial soil moisture data products, but most existing L-band satellites provide only coarse scale (one to tens of kilometers grid size), information that is unsuitable for measuring soil moisture variation at hillslope or watershed-scales. L-band sensors are typically deployed on satellite platforms and aircraft but have been too large to deploy on small uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). There is a need for greater spatial resolution and development of effective measures of soil moisture across a variety of natural vegetation types. To address these challenges, a novel UAS-based L-band radiometer system was evaluated that has recently been tested in agricultural settings. In this study, L-band UAS was used to map soil moisture at 3–50-m (m) resolution in a 13 square kilometer (km2) mixed grassland-forested landscape in Sonoma County, California. The results represent the first application of this technology in a natural landscape with complex topography and vegetation. The L-band inversion of the radiative transfer model produced soil moisture maps with an average unbiased root mean squared error (ubRMSE) of 0.07 m3/m3 and a bias of 0.02 m3/m3. Improved fine-scale soil moisture maps developed using UAS-based systems may be used to help inform wildfire risk, improve hydrologic models, streamflow forecasting, and early detection of landslides.
Extreme rainfall in Dakar (Senegal): a case study for September 5, 2020
Authors: Diedhiou Salif , Rauch Manuel , Lahat Dieng Abdou , Bliefernicht Jan , Sy Souleymane , Sall Saïdou Moustapha , Kunstmann Harald
Published: November 2024

West African countries frequently experience extreme rainfall events during the monsoon season. On September 5, 2020, a significant event occurred in the Dakar region of Senegal with daily rainfall totals exceeding 90 mm, causing widespread flooding and displacing 1,000's of people. Despite the severity of this event, the physical mechanisms driving such extreme rainfall remain unexplored. This study aims to investigate the physical mechanisms associated with this event using multiple data sources, including satellite rainfall estimate products (GPM-IMERG, CHIRPS) and reanalysis data (ERA-5). By analyzing wind fields and mid-tropospheric moisture content from reanalysis data, we examined the synoptic-dynamic evolution of the atmosphere and the movement of the cyclonic vortex that transported moisture to the affected region, resulting in substantial rainfall measurements exceeding 100 mm. The analysis also revealed that a vortex over the ocean slowed down the vortex near Senegal, prolonging the rainfall over a total period of 10 h. Additionally, this study presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of state-of-the-art satellite rainfall estimates, assessing their accuracy and reliability in capturing extreme rainfall events both spatially and at specific rainfall gauges situated in Dakar. This evaluation revealed that while satellite rainfall estimates are valuable, they tended to underestimate (up to 40%) the actual rainfall observed at the Dakar-Yoff station. Furthermore, extreme value analysis showed that there is a tendency to underestimate return levels for high-intensity events, with some cases showing underestimations by up to twice the actual values. Thus, this research advances our understanding of extreme rainfall events in West Africa and improves our knowledge of satellite-based rainfall estimates, contributing to future monitoring and preparedness. Furthermore, these findings highlight the importance of monitoring cyclonic systems associated with African Easterly Waves, contributing to a better understanding of extreme rainfall events in West Africa.
Trends and trajectories in employee green behavior research
Authors: Ali Azlan , Juan Huang
Published: November 2024

With environmental protection awareness increasing, green innovation has become a key way for enterprises to achieve sustainable development. Research trends on employee green behavior are an important basis for formulating green behavior incentive measures and a key foundation for further exploring green innovation. However, due to the large amount of literature on employee green behavior, obtaining research trends directly related to employee green behavior takes time and effort. To solve this problem, this paper takes the relevant published literature on research on employee green behavior from 2009 to 2024 as the research object. It uses CiteSpace software to study the research trends of employee green behavior from the number change analysis of published literature, distribution region analysis of published literature, influence analysis of main authors of published literature, keyword analysis, and high-frequency word analysis. The research results show that the publication of literature on employee green behavior has been steadily increasing since 2018, and the relevant research mainly focuses on the impact of green behavior motivations, green behavior emotional factors, green behavior performance results, green self-energy efficiency, and other aspects on employee green behavior. Based on the research results, further summaries and suggestions are given to provide references for the subsequent related research in this paper.
Comparison of Forsythia suspensa leaf fermented tea in the four different regions of Shanxi Province: quality, functional ingredients, and bioactivity
Authors: Li Lijuan , Zhao Yating , Zhang Shu , Zhang Xiaohong , Duan Guofeng
Published: November 2024

Background

Forsythia suspensa (F. suspensa) is a plant of the Oleaceae family that is used as a medicinal plant. It is a traditional Chinese medicine that functions in clearing heat and detoxification. F. suspensa contains various phytochemicals, such as lignans, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and phenylethanolic glycosides; however, the main active phytochemical in F. suspensa is phillygenin, which has lipid-lowering, antioxidant, antihypertensive, and tyrosinase inhibitory effects. However, the content of phillygenin in F. suspensa is very low, limiting its application.

Methods

This study used wild F. suspensa leaves (FSL) from Lingchuan County (LC), Anze County (AC), Pingshun County (PS), and Pingding County (PD) in Shanxi Province as experimental materials. Through a single factor and orthogonal experimental design, the fermentation time, temperature, and humidity of F. suspensa leaf fermented tea (FSLFT) were optimized using a black tea fermentation machine. By comparing the differences in phillygrin and phillygenin content in FSL and FSLFT, the optimal production process for increasing phillygenin content in FSLFT was sought. This study also compared the differences in bioactive substance content and in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial functions of wild FSLFT from the four counties to evaluate the quality of wild FSLFT from the four counties.

Results

The optimal technological parameters of Forsythia suspensa leaf fermented tea (FSLFT): fermentation time of 2 h, fermentation humidity of 80%, fermentation temperature of 35°C, the experimental results showed that the order of influence of each factor on phillygenin content was C (fermentation temperature) > A (fermentation time) > B (fermentation humidity). The cellulase activity of FSLFT was significantly higher than that of FSL (P < 0.05). The total volatile compounds of the wild FSLFT from the four counties were 87 volatile aroma components, 13 of which were common aroma components, and the PCA scores ranged from high to low as follows: AZ-FSLFT > LC-FSLFT > PS-FSLFT > PD-FSLFT. The antioxidant effects of the FSLFT were as follows: AZ-FSLFT > LC-FSLFT > PS-FSLFT > PD-FSLFT. PD-FSLFT had the least inhibitory effect on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, whereas AZ-FSLFT had the greatest inhibitory effect.

Conclusion

Fermentation promoted the conversion of phillygrin to phillygenin in FSL, which might be related to the increased cellulase activity in FSL during fermentation. The AZ-FSLFT had the best quality and functional activity, which made sense given its active ingredient content. The AZ-FSLFT had the best quality and functional activity, which made sense given its active ingredient content. This study contributes to the comprehensive development and utilization of F. suspensa leaves for economic and healthcare purposes.