bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Acute Effect of Exercise on Appetite-Related Factors in Males with Obesity
Authors: Asri Sogand , Rahmani-nia Farhad , Saidie Payam , Khodabandeh Shahin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The interplay between exercise and appetite regulation has been extensively studied, given that exercise-induced energy expenditure can significantly impact energy balance. This study aimed to investigate the role of appetite-related factors, including interleukin 6 (IL-6), irisin, interleukin 7 (IL-7), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and leptin, on appetite perception in males with obesity.
Methods
Eleven males (body mass 109.8 ± 16.4 kg, body mass index 35.3 ± 4.2 kg/m², V̇O2peak 29 ± 3.1 mL/kg/min) participated in two experimental trials (MICE: 60 minutes of cycling at 60% of VO2peak; CTRL: 60 minutes of quiet resting) using a crossover design. Appetite parameters, including IL-6, IL-7, irisin, and leptin, were measured at 0, 1.25, 2.25, and 3.25 hours. Additionally, appetite perception was assessed at 1-hour intervals.
Results
IL-6 levels increased significantly immediately post-exercise (95% CI: [2.207–12.192] pg/mL, p = 0.007) and remained elevated 1 hour post-exercise (95% CI: [2.326–11.855] pg/mL, p = 0.006) compared to the control trial. Irisin levels also rose significantly immediately post-exercise (95% CI: [0.084–3.061] ng/mL, p = 0.039). NPY concentration decreased significantly 1 hour post-exercise (95% CI: [(-20.601) - (-1.380)] ng/L, p = 0.027). No significant differences were observed for IL-7 (p = 0.748, \(\:{\eta\:}_{p}^{2}\) = 0.077) and leptin (p = 0.748, \(\:{\eta\:}_{p}^{2}\) = 0.077). Appetite perceptions were suppressed immediately post-exercise (95% CI: [3.407–19.547] mm, p = 0.008) and 1 hour post-exercise (95% CI: [6.252–22.385] mm, p = 0.001) compared to the control.
Conclusion
Sixty minutes of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) increased IL-6 and irisin levels while suppressing NPY levels and appetite perceptions following moderate intensity aerobic exercise.
A day with suicidal adolescents: Experiences of mental healthcare providers
Authors: Mukwevo Teboho , Du Plessis Emmerentia , Chukwuere Precious Chibuike 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background:Suicide-related behaviour, including suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts, has become a significant cause of death worldwide, particularly among adolescents. The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of mental healthcare providers in providing healthcare to adolescents with suicidal behaviour and to explore and describe what support can be provided to mental healthcare providers.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive design with the study conducted in the adolescent ward in a public psychiatric hospital in the Western Cape, South Africa. A purposive sampling technique was used. A total of n=11 semi-structured individual interviews were conducted. Data saturation was reached after interview n=9 and two more interviews were conducted to confirm data saturation. Data was analyzed using a thematic method of qualitative data analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured through dependability, transferability, credibility, and confirmability. Approval was obtained from the necessary authorities.
Results: Mental healthcare providers experience providing healthcare to adolescents with suicidal behaviour as challenging at times, mental healthcare providers experience providing healthcare to adolescents with suicidal behaviour as rewarding at times. Additionally, mental healthcare providers providing healthcare to adolescents with suicidal behaviour need emotional and/or psychological support and mental healthcare providers providing healthcare to adolescents with suicidal behaviour need organizational support.
Conclusion: The study underscores the mental health providers' experience providing health care to adolescents with suicidal behaviour and how they can be supported to fulfill their duties. Addressing their emotional and psychological needs through regular debriefing and counseling, coupled with enhanced training and management support, can significantly improve their coping mechanisms and overall quality of care. By ensuring that healthcare providers are well-supported and equipped, their effectiveness in treating suicidal adolescents can be markedly improved, ultimately benefiting both the providers and the patients.
A Bijection-backdoor-based Adversarial Examples Defense Method in Federated Learning
Authors: Li Yongfei , Guo Yuanbo , Fang Chen , Wang Yifeng , Chen Qingli , Hu Yongjin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

With the continuous advancement of Internet of Things (IoT), the issue of data privacy in it is also quietly emerging. Federated learning (FL) enables the creation of a potent global model from a consortium of clients, safeguarding sensitive client data while upholding model accuracy. Unlike conventional centralized learning paradigms, federated learning operates without necessitating access to local datasets, thus effectively mitigating data privacy concerns. Nonetheless, malevolent entities can exploit vulnerabilities by introducing subtle perturbations to client-side samples, thereby executing adversarial example (AE) attacks that disrupt model predictions. To address this challenge, we present a novel bijection-backdoor-based adversarial examples defense method in federated learning, termed BAEDFL-CL. Initially, an intricate backdoor mechanism is transmitted from the server to the client, i.e. IoT device, neutralizing the impact of adversarial examples on model outputs while preserving the primary task's performance. Additionally, to bolster the model's defense capabilities within the federated learning for practical scenario, we devise a representation enhancement technique grounded in supervised contrastive learning (CL). This method encourages the model to craft feature representations endowed with enhanced generalization ability. Through comprehensive experiment on diverse datasets spanning IID and Non-IID scenarios, our results reveal that BAEDFL-CL significantly diminishes the attack success rate to 17.66% and 24.35%, respectively. Concurrently, BAEDFL-CL improves main task performance by 0.02% and 2.24% correspondingly, substantiating its efficacy in countering adversarial examples in federated learning environments.
Coffee intake and risk of diabetic retinopathy: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wu Yanyan , Ni Yulu , Huang Xin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Observational studies have reported a link between coffee consumption and diabetic retinopathy (DR), but the causal relationship remains a subject of debate. To explore these causal associations, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) study.
Methods: We utilized seven publicly accessible genome-wide association studies (GWAS) datasets related to coffee intake (ukb-b-5237) and DR (finn-b-DM_RETINOPATHY, finn-b-H7_RETINOPATHYDIAB, finn-b-DM_RETINOPATHY_EXMORE, finn-b-DM_RETINA_PROLIF, finn-b-H7_RETINOPATHYDIAB_PROLIF, and finn-b-H7_RETINOPATHYDIAB_BKG). MR analyses were performed using inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger regression, and weighted mode estimates.
Results: Employing 40 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of genome-wide significance as instrumental variables for coffee intake, our study revealed a positive correlation between genetically predicted coffee consumption and the risk of DR (OR= 1.39, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.90, p = 0.037; OR=2.25, 95% CI: 1.21 to 4.20, p = 0.011; OR= 1.66, 95% CI: 1.17 to 2.35, p = 0.004; OR= 1.75, 95% CI: 1.20 to 2.56, p = 0.004; OR= 2.79, 95% CI: 1.08 to 7.23, p = 0.035; OR= 2.48, 95% CI: 1.16 to 5.29, p = 0.019). These results were consistent across various sensitivity analyses and free from pleiotropy.
Conclusions: Our findings indicate a positive association between coffee intake and the risk of DR, as determined by genetic data. These correlations warrant serious consideration in clinical settings.
Willingness to Use Long-acting Injectable Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among Key Populations at a Large Hiv Prevention Clinic in Kampala, Uganda: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Lukubuya Jonathan Derrick , Katana Elizabeth B. , Baguma Micheal , Kaguta Andrew , Nambatya Winnie , Kyambadde Peter , Muwonge Timothy R. , Mujugira Andrew , Odongpiny Eva Agnes Laker 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background.
Long-acting injectable (LAI)-PrEP provides better protection against HIV compared to oral PrEP, which requires taking a daily pill. Our study aimed to assess knowledge about oral and LAI-PrEP and identify factors associated with willingness to use LAI-PrEP among key populations (KP) in Uganda.
Methods.
We conducted a cross-sectional study at the Most at Risk Populations Initiative (MARPI) clinic between November and December 2021. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling and interviewed using a structured questionnaire by trained interviewers. Participants were categorised into three groups based on their oral PrEP use: those who had not yet initiated PrEP, those who had discontinued oral PrEP, and those currently on oral PrEP. Modified Poisson regression analysis was performed to determine factors associated with the participant's willingness to use LAI-PrEP. Data was analysed using STATA 14 software.
Results.
Of the 234 participants, 135 (56.7%) were female, 82.5% knew about LAI-PrEP, and 67.5% were willing to use it. The mean age was 28.7 years (standard deviation [SD] 5.8). Willingness to use LAI-PrEP was less likely among divorced, widowed, or separated individuals than those in relationships (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 0.65, 95% CI: 0.43–0.98). Relative to current oral PrEP users, willingness to use LAI-PrEP was similar among those who discontinued oral PrEP (aPR 1.39, 95% CI: 0.92–2.11) and those who had not yet initiated PrEP but were at risk for HIV (aPR 1.26, 95% CI: 0.83–1.89).
Conclusions.
In this cross-sectional analysis of diverse members of key populations in Uganda, previous or non-use of oral PrEP was not associated with willingness to use LAI-PrEP relative to current users. Future studies should investigate effective methods for promoting the uptake of long-acting PrEP formulations among populations at high risk of HIV acquisition.
Comparative Effectiveness of Vitrification and Slow Freezing after Heterotopic Transplantation of Human Ovarian Tissues
Authors: Zeng Yucui , Li Yushan , Du Hui , Li Changzhong , Dai Wenkui , Wu Ruifang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two different vitrification methods and slow freezing in terms of the recovery of endocrine function, follicular morphology and proliferation, apoptosis of stromal cells, and angiogenesis after heterotopic transplantation of human ovarian tissue.
Methods
Ovarian tissue from young women aged 29 to 40 was subjected to vitrification or slow freezing. The thawed ovarian tissue was then transplanted into nude mice. Ovarian tissue samples were collected at 4 and 6 weeks post-transplantation. The recovery of ovarian function was evaluated by observing the estrous cycle and measuring estradiol levels using Elisa. Histological evaluation was performed to assess the integrity of ovarian follicles. TUNEL assay was used to detect stromal cell apoptosis, and immunohistochemistry was conducted to evaluate follicular proliferation and tissue angiogenesis.
Results
After heterotopic transplantation, mice in the experimental groups exhibited restoration of the estrous cycle. Hormone levels showed an increasing trend in the vitrification groups. At 6 weeks post-transplantation, the VF2 group had significantly higher hormone levels compared to the VF1 group and the slow freezing (SF) group (P > 0.05). At 4 weeks post-transplantation, the proportion of normal follicles was higher in the VF2 group compared to the other two groups (P > 0.05), and at 6 weeks post-transplantation, the VF2 group was significantly higher than the SF group (P < 0.05) and slightly higher than the VF1 group. Immunohistochemistry analysis indicated a higher proportion of proliferating follicles in the vitrification groups compared to the slow freezing group (P > 0.05). CD31 expression was established in all groups at 4 and 6 weeks post-transplantation, with slightly better results in the slow freezing group compared to the vitrification group. TUNEL analysis showed that stromal cell apoptosis was higher in the SF group compared to the vitrification group at 4 weeks post-transplantation (P < 0.05), while there was no significant statistical difference among the groups at 6 weeks post-transplantation.
Conclusions
Vitrification showed slightly better results than slow freezing, with the VF2 group performing slightly better than the VF1 group. Considering the lower economic and time costs associated with vitrification, it may be more suitable for ovarian tissue cryopreservation in major research centers in the future.
Possible mechanisms underlying the involvement of microglial P2X4 receptors in the comorbidity of pain and depression
Authors: Wang Wei , Xin Lian , Hu Chunxiao , Sun Hanzhe , Pan Shuai , Lin Jinlong , Gu Zhengfeng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Microglia’s P2X4 receptor may be a key target involved in the occurrence and development of pain–depression comorbidity. The objective of this study is to explore the possible mechanisms underlying the involvement of microglial P2X4 receptors in pain–depression comorbidity. Sixty male SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: normal control group (10), sham operation group (10), chronic constriction injury of sciatic nerve group (CCI group, 10), CCI + antagonist group (10), chronic unpredicted mild stress model group (CUMS group, 10), CUMS + antagonist group (10). The normal group received no treatment, the sham group was injected with normal saline through stereotaxic localisation, the CCI group was ligated with sciatic nerve of left leg, the CUMS group was stimulated by stress for 30 days. The rats in the CCI group and CUMS group were injected with P2X4 receptor antagonist 30 days later. The mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) were measured in each group on different days, followed by forced swimming tests in all groups to measure floating immobility time in water. Finally, P2X4’s expression in rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) and spinal lumbosacral swelling were detected by Western Blotting and immunofluorescence, respectively, whilst expression of 5-HT in the spinal dorsal horn was measured via immunohistochemistry. Compared with the sham group, both MWT and TWL in the CCI group exhibited a decreasing trend (lowest level at approximately 2 weeks before remaining stable). Floating state time in the forced swimming experiment was significantly prolonged. Simultaneously, P2X4’s expression increased in RVM, as did that of 5-HT in spinal cord, but the expression of 5-HT in spinal cord significantly decreased after injection of P2X4 receptor antagonist in RVM. Compared with the normal group, MWT and TWL in the CUMS group decreased gradually, and floating state time reached the longest. P2X4 receptor expression in the RVM increased more significantly than that in the CCI group, and that of 5-HT in the spinal cord increased. Post injection of the P2X4 receptor antagonist, the MWT and TWL were higher than those before injection, and forced swimming time decreased. Moreover, P2X4 receptor expression in RVM increased, and expression of 5-HT in the spinal cord decreased. P2X4 receptor in RVM may be involved in the pathogenesis of pain–depression comorbidity.
Biosurfactant production by Bacillus cereus GX7 utilizing organic waste and its application in the remediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated environments
Authors: Zhang Yunyun , Gao Jin , Li Qintong , Yang Jingjing , Gao Yu , Xue Jianliang , Li Lin , Ji Yiting 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The use of biosurfactants represents a promising technology for remediating hydrocarbon pollution in the environment. This study evaluated a highly effective biosurfactant strain-Bacillus cereus GX7’s ability to produce biosurfactants from industrial and agriculture organic wastes. GX7 showed poor utilization capacity for oil soluble organic waste but effectively utilized of water soluble organic wastes such as starch hydrolysate and wheat bran juice as carbon sources to enhance biosurfactant production. This led to significant improvements in surface tension and emulsification index. Corn steep liquor was also effective as a nitrogen source for GX7 in biosurfactant production. The biosurfactants produced by strain GX7 demonstrated a remediation effect on oily beach sand, but are slightly inferior to chemical surfactants. Inoculation with GX7 (70.36%) or its fermentation solution (94.38%) can effectively enhanced the degradation efficiency of diesel oil in polluted seawater, surpassing that of indigenous degrading bacteria treatments (57.62%). Moreover, Inoculation with GX7’s fermentation solution notably improved the community structure by increasing the abundance of functional bacteria such as Pseudomonas and Stenotrophomonas in seawater. These findings suggest that the GX7 as a promising candidate for bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbons.
Varied Manifestations of Artery of Percheron Stroke: A Clinical Case Series
Authors: Shetty Rakshand , CS Madhu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Artery of Percheron (AOP) stroke, a rare anatomical variant resulting in bilateral thalamic infarction, presents with diverse clinical manifestations. We present a case series of six patients, highlighting the variability in clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, management strategies, and outcomes associated with this condition. Variants in stroke presentation include altered sensorium, involuntary movements, and respiratory compromise. Imaging findings reveal bilateral paramedian thalamic infarcts, often involving adjacent structures. Management involves multidisciplinary care with emphasis on early recognition, supportive measures, and tailored rehabilitation. Our series underscores the importance of considering AOP stroke in patients presenting with atypical neurological symptoms, facilitating prompt diagnosis and intervention.
Background:
Artery of Percheron stroke, characterized by occlusion of a single common arterial supply to the bilateral thalami and other adjacent structures, is a rare but clinically significant entity. The anatomical variability predisposes to a wide spectrum of neurological deficits ranging from altered consciousness to focal neurological signs, posing diagnostic challenges often requiring advanced neuroimaging and multidisciplinary management.
Materials and Methods:
We conducted a retrospective review of six cases diagnosed with AOP stroke at our tertiary care facility between 2017 and 2021. Clinical data including demographics, presenting symptoms, physical examination findings, diagnostic imaging (CT, MRI, and angiography), laboratory investigations, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analyzed. Diagnostic criteria included characteristic neuroimaging findings confirming bilateral paramedian thalamic infarction consistent with AOP involvement.
Are ethnic disparities in COVID-19 severe outcomes over? Analysis of 5.3 million individuals in England and Wales from 2020-2022
Authors: Khalid Sara , Pineda-Moncusí Marta , Allery Freya , Abbasizanjani Hoda , Powell David , Prats-Uribe Albert , Thygesen Johan , Tomlinson Christopher , Banerjee Amitava , Akbari Ashley , Coates Laura , Denaxas Spiros , Khunti Kamlesh , Collins Gary , Prieto-Alhambra Daniel 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

To study ethnic disparities in risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, we estimated age-standardised incidence rates and adjusted hazard ratios for 28-day mortality and 30-day cardiovascular disease (CVD) for individual ethnic groups from England and Wales. We studied 6-census-based ethnicity groups classification, 10-level classification (only for Wales), and 19-level classification along with additional sub-groups comprising > 1000 individuals each (only for England). COVID-19 mortality and CVD risk was increased in most non-White ethnic groups in England and Asian population in Wales during the 2.5 years after the pandemic outbreak. English data show mortality decreased during the Omicron variant's dominance, whilst CVD risk remained elevated for certain ethnic groups when compared to White populations (men: 58% Pakistani, 120% White and Asian, and 17% Any other White background; women: 75% Bangladeshi, 55% Caribbean, and 82% Any Other Ethnic Group). Ethnically diverse populations remained disproportionately affected by CVD throughout and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lysosomal Storage Diseases Brazil Network, helping Brazil and Latin America to identify LSD patients: Report on the first 10 years of activity
Authors: Trapp Franciele Barbosa , Riegel-Giugliani Mariluce , Michelin-Tirelli Kristiane , Silva Layzon Antonio Lemos da , Iop Gabrielle Dineck , Bender-Pasetto Fernanda , Sebastião Fernanda Medeiros , Moraes Inamara da Silva , Lopes Franciele Fátima , Santos Osmar Rachor Toledo dos , Pereira Fernanda da Rosa , Silva Laysla Pedelhes , Luiz Andrius Anselmi , Silva Cleiton Amaral da , Lucas Karen Daniela Piccoli , Netto Alice Brinckmann Oliveira , Brasil Carolina Serpa , Leistner Sandra , Brusius-Facchin Ana Carolina , Rafaelli Célio Luiz , Giugliani Roberto 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

To contribute to the diagnosis of lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs), an innovative program called LSD Brazil Network (LBN) was implemented to provide information and testing of high-risk patients, free of charge, to doctors and services from Brazil and other countries. This paper describes the structure, services provided, and results obtained by LBN in its first 10 years of operation. The LBN has a core group which is responsible for the operation, guidance, logistics of sample collection and transportation, test reports and informative materials. The diagnostic investigation is performed in several laboratories affiliated to the program, all located in Porto Alegre, Brazil. The first ten years of operation of the LSD Brazil Network (2013–2022) were reviewed in detail. Along 10 years, 26,489 patients were investigated by the LBN, with the diagnosis of 27 LSDs confirmed in 1,320 cases (4.98%). Comparing the first period of 5 years with the second one, there was a decrease in the number of requests, probably reflecting the impact of the Covid-19 pandemics. Interestingly, the same comparison indicates that there was an increase of 46% in the rate of diagnosis, possibly due a better selection of suspected cases. The model developed by the LSD Brazil Network, aiming to increase awareness and to remove barriers to diagnostic tests, suggests that the implementation of reference networks seems to be a suitable alternative to foster the diagnosis of LSDs, especially in developing countries, where resources and facilities are scarce.