Tag: pubmed

Chaos. 2024 Dec 1;34(12):123118. doi: 10.1063/5.0223045.

ABSTRACT

The transient activity of the brain can be characterized by stable heteroclinic channels (SHCs) in the phase space of dynamical models, and the saddle points can represent the metastable states of brain activity. Inspired by this view, based on the hippocampal CA3-CA1 synaptic network model of memory we constructed earlier, we encode memory engrams as trajectories within the SHC in phase space. Short-term memory is transformed into long-term memory and then is encoded as trajectories within the SHC. The saddle points indicate the information blocks that have been segmented during the process of short-term memory. A stable heteroclinic network (SHN) is composed of multiple SHCs, whose trajectories express the memory engrams formed after the conversion of multiple short-term memories into long-term memories. From the existence conditions of SHC and SHN, the asymmetric regulation of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine on the inhibition strength of adjacent postsynaptic neurons determines the capacity of short-term memory and participates in the encoding of long-term memory. Numerical results reveal the hysteresis effect of saddle points on the trajectories that reflect the limited capacity of short-term memory. All saddle points in the SHNs enable long-term memory to possess an extremely large capacity. Moreover, while noise in the hippocampal circuit can lead to the loss or confusion of memory information, it can also facilitate the encoding of long-term memories. The model and its theoretical analysis allow us to explain memory from the perspective of dynamics and have guiding significance for understanding the encoding and storage process of memory.

PMID:39625669 | DOI:10.1063/5.0223045

Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging. 2024 Dec 3. doi: 10.1007/s00259-024-07006-z. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Aim of this study was to analyze the safety of prostate-specific membrane antigen radioligand therapy (PSMA-RLT) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with preexisting moderate to severe thrombocytopenia (CTCAE ≥ 2).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen mCRPC patients with preexisting thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 75 × 10⁹/L) were included in this study. Patients received a median of 3 cycles of [¹⁷⁷Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 (range 1-6). The course of platelet cell count was closely monitored within and after the PSMA-RLT and analyzed statistically and according to CTCAE.

RESULTS: No significant difference in platelet counts was observed between baseline and follow-up after each PSMA-RLT cycle: first cycle (54.18 ± 16.07 at baseline vs. 59.65 ± 39.16 at follow up [in × 10⁹/L], p= 0.834), second cycle (58.56 ± 16.43 vs. 107.1 ± 56.44, p = 0.203), and third cycle (60.38 ± 16.57 vs. 132.1 ± 80.43, p = 0.148), respectively. Similarly, baseline and end of treatment values, irrespective of the number of administered cycles, did not reveal a significant difference (54.18 ± 16.07 vs. 72.06 ± 71.9, p = 0.741). After the end of therapy, irrespective of the number of administered cycles, 29.4% of patients remained stable in terms of CTCAE scoring, 41.2% changed to a higher score and 29.4% improved to a lower score. We observed no critical bleeding events due to thrombocytopenia.

CONCLUSION: Despite the common consideration of marked preexisting thrombocytopenia as a contraindication for RLT, this study indicates feasibility of PSMA-RLT in patients with preexisting thrombocytopenia of grade ≥ 2, as in our preliminary experience, there was no RLT-induced significant deterioration of platelet cell count. Thus, patients with thrombocytopenia should not be categorically excluded from receiving PSMA-RLT.

PMID:39625666 | DOI:10.1007/s00259-024-07006-z

Mol Genet Genomics. 2024 Dec 3;299(1):112. doi: 10.1007/s00438-024-02204-8.

ABSTRACT

Early seedling vigour (ESV) is a key trait that enhances early establishment, stress tolerance, and grain yield in rice, especially in direct-seeded rice (DSR) systems. The aus varietal groups is known for its high seedling vigour. The screening of aus diversity panel for ESV traits and subsequent genome-wide association study (GWAS) can lead to the identification of genetic components of ESV. Here, we report the genetic variation in seven ESV traits along with days to 50% flowering and grain yield in a panel of 181 aus accessions evaluated under field conditions. We observed significant variations in the studied traits. The vegetative vigour, scored visually, was significantly correlated with most of the traits, suggesting its impact on overall plant performance. Comparative analysis of aus genetic groups revealed significant variations, and the subpopulation that includes early maturing drought tolerant genotypes was the most vigorous, and thus ideal for donor selection. GWAS using 918, 863 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers identified 14 significant QTLs, including seven novel ones, linked to vegetative vigour, average growth rate and seedling biomass. Candidate genes like OsPDR1, NCKAP1, and OsSAUR10, involved in jasmonic acid biosynthesis, ABA signaling, and brassinosteroid pathways, were identified to be associated with ESV regulation. This study provides insights into the genetic basis of ESV in aus rice, identifying promising germplasm and genes that could improve seedling vigour and yield in DSR systems. Future research should validate these findings and integrate them into breeding programs for enhanced rice performance in various environments.

PMID:39625651 | DOI:10.1007/s00438-024-02204-8

J Psycholinguist Res. 2024 Dec 3;53(6):78. doi: 10.1007/s10936-024-10118-0.

ABSTRACT

Whether conscious awareness is critical for detecting semantic information in individual words remains debated. We hypothesize that this issue is specific to language type and that orthography serves as a mediator between semantics and conscious awareness. Using a priming-based paradigm called breaking continuous flash suppression (b-CFS) with a full factorial design, this study investigated whether orthographic similarity and semantic relatedness between the prime and target could modulate conscious access to Chinese single characters. Statistics indicated that semantic relatedness did not facilitate the character’s breakthrough from CFS unless combined with orthographic similarity, although orthographic similarity alone had an inhibitory effect. The results were discussed in light of the “unconscious binding” hypothesis and object-updating theory in visual perception as well as the unique sub-morphemic construction in psycholinguistics. Our findings demonstrate the possibility of orthography-based semantic processing occurring outside of conscious awareness and suggest that the multilevel interaction activation model may be applicable to the early recognition of Chinese characters.

PMID:39625648 | DOI:10.1007/s10936-024-10118-0

J Dev Behav Pediatr. 2024 Nov 26. doi: 10.1097/DBP.0000000000001329. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Despite automatic eligibility, many children with medical conditions associated with increased risk of disability do not receive Early Intervention (EI) services. State EI programs have compiled lists of established conditions to facilitate automatic enrollment; yet little is known about professionals’ knowledge and utilization of these lists. This study examined the knowledge of these established conditions lists and associated policies and procedures among pediatricians and EI personnel. State initiatives and approaches undertaken to improve familiarity and utilization of the list, along with recommendations for its improvement were examined.

METHOD: In this mixed-methods study, self-rated survey data were collected from 193 EI personnel responsible for intake and eligibility evaluations, and 69 pediatricians providing primary care. Follow-up interviews were then conducted with 45 EI personnel and 22 pediatricians. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

RESULTS: Pediatricians rated their knowledge of their state’s established conditions list and related policies and procedures lower than EI personnel. Both groups emphasized the significance of the list in referral and eligibility determination but highlighted its underutilization and lack of professional development activities. Consequently, recommendations were made to improve state established conditions lists and their utilization in ensuring direct EI enrollment for eligible children.

CONCLUSION: The lack of shared knowledge and utilization of established conditions lists and associated policies and procedures among pediatricians and EI personnel may result in referral failure for eligible children. Addressing this challenge requires improvement in the content and statewide distribution to improve accessibility and usability.

PMID:39625642 | DOI:10.1097/DBP.0000000000001329

Sleep Breath. 2024 Dec 3;29(1):40. doi: 10.1007/s11325-024-03219-6.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Muscle relaxation in the neck during sleep is crucial for achieving quality sleep, and varying pillow heights can significantly influence the myoelectric activity of the neck muscles. This study aims to investigate the effects of different pillow heights on neck muscle activity, with the goal of providing evidence-based recommendations for pillow selection.

METHODS: A total of 15 asymptomatic participants in this study, aged 18 to 30, were assigned to three groups based on pillow height: height 1 (0.5*Shoulder width), height 2 (1.0*Shoulder width), and height 3 (1.5*Shoulder width). Electromyography (EMG) was employed to measure muscle activity in the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles during lateral sleeping positions. Sleep comfort was evaluated using a 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS). Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA to assess the differences in muscle activity and comfort levels across the various pillow heights.

RESULTS: The muscle activation levels revealed that both the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle exhibited the lowest EMG activity in the height 2 (p < 0.001). In contrast, the sternocleidomastoid muscle recorded the highest activation, demonstrating significantly greater average electromyography (AEMG) and integrated electromyography (iEMG) at height 1 (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the trapezius muscle showed the highest AEMG at height 3 (p < 0.001). Additionally, height 2 was identified as the most comfortable option when compared to height 1 and 3 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: This study concludes that varying pillow heights are linked to neck muscle activity and sleep comfort. These findings underscore the importance of an appropriate pillow height to maintain a healthy cervical spine and promote restful sleep.

PMID:39625641 | DOI:10.1007/s11325-024-03219-6

Blood Res. 2024 Dec 3;59(1):40. doi: 10.1007/s44313-024-00047-1.

ABSTRACT

The diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) can be challenging when neuroimaging findings are normal or equivocal. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), particularly histone H3.1, have potential as biomarkers for AIS. This study evaluated NETs, specifically histone H3.1, as diagnostic biomarkers for AIS. This prospective study included 89 patients with AIS and 20 healthy controls. Plasma histone H3.1 levels were measured using the Nu.Q® H3.1 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Seven cytokines were analyzed using a bead-based immunoassay. Statistical analyses were used to compare histone H3.1 levels between groups and evaluate correlations with clinical parameters and cytokines. Histone H3.1 levels were significantly higher in patients with AIS (271.05 ± 33.40 ng/mL) versus controls (95.33 ± 12.86 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression identified H3.1 as an independent risk factor for AIS (p = 0.006), with an area under the curve of 0.907. Significant correlations were found between H3.1, interleukin-6 (0.290, p = 0.013) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (0.297, p = 0.011). In conclusion, the NETs H3.1 ELISA test is a reliable new diagnostic option that supports the diagnosis of AIS.

PMID:39625632 | DOI:10.1007/s44313-024-00047-1

Qual Life Res. 2024 Dec 3. doi: 10.1007/s11136-024-03850-6. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are being used more frequently in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). By utilizing high-quality scales, surgeons can achieve a more comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the effectiveness of TKA surgery. Currently, there is no widely accepted conceptual model for TKA PROMs. The objective of this study is to fill this gap by developing a conceptual model and preliminary content for a PROM that is specifically designed for TKA patients in mainland China.

METHODS: The study design consisted of three stages: (1) a targeted literature review followed by the formation of a conceptual model pool; (2) qualitative data collection involving experts and patients, leading to the development of the preliminary Chinese TKA PROM (CTP); and (3) review of the CTP by experts using the Delphi method, along with cognitive debriefing interviews with patients.

RESULTS: 64 patients and 28 experts took part in this study. The conceptual model focused on six key concepts: pain, symptom, function, quality of life, expectation, and satisfaction. To match the model, the authors developed a total of 35 items.

CONCLUSION: A conceptual model and preliminary content for CTP was developed with substantial participation from patients and a multidisciplinary group of experts. The integration of patient and clinical perspectives ensured a comprehensive representation of all relevant disease experiences and the focus of clinical practice. With further refinement through psychometric testing, the CTP is positioned to provide a standardized, comprehensive measure for research specific to Chinese TKA patients.

PMID:39625626 | DOI:10.1007/s11136-024-03850-6

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2024 Dec 3. doi: 10.1007/s11356-024-35410-3. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The properties of soil matrix have an impact on the fluorescence intensity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which restricts the application of fluorescence spectral technology in detecting PAHs in soil. The present study explored the mechanism of the influence of soil matrix properties on the fluorescence intensity of PAHs from the perspective of specific surface area (SSA). A three-factor three-level experimental design was adopted for investigating the relationship between soil matrix properties, PAH fluorescence intensity, and soil SSA. The typical benzo[ghi]perylene pollutant in soil as the research object, 27 soil samples with different sand content, moisture content, humic acid content, and given benzo[ghi]perylene concentration (2 mg/g) were prepared. On the basis of obtaining the fluorescence spectra and SSA data of soil samples, statistical analyses of fluorescence intensity and SSA were investigated in relation to the soil matrix properties. The statistical results showed that the soil matrix properties had a significant influence (P < 0.05) on the fluorescence intensity and SSA. Furthermore, combined with the technology of fluorescence microscopy imaging, the influence mechanism of soil matrix properties on fluorescence intensity was revealed. The soil matrix properties affected the soil SSA, resulting in a change of benzo[ghi]perylene concentration in the soil surface at the probe window, thereby affecting the fluorescence intensity.

PMID:39625621 | DOI:10.1007/s11356-024-35410-3

Ann Med. 2024 Dec;56(1):2427909. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2427909. Epub 2024 Dec 3.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the robustness of cardiovascular disease randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with primary continuous outcomes from a clinical perspective, utilizing the concepts of continuous fragility index (CFI), reverse continuous fragility index (RCFI) and their corresponding quotients (CFQ, RCFQ).

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted, searching PubMed for cardiovascular RCTs published between January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022, in eight high-impact journals. Inclusion criteria were phase III or IV trials with 1:1 randomization, reporting at least one primary continuous outcome. Data analysis involved altering each outcome until achieving the reversal of significance (ɑ = 0.05) to determine the CFI or RCFI. The fragility quotients were then calculated by dividing the CFI or RCFI by the sample size, and Spearman’s correlation assessed correlation analyses.

RESULTS: Of 3983 records were screened, and 64 RCTs (76 outcomes) were included. The fragility index was analysed with 72 outcomes. The overall median CFI was 7, with an associated median CFQ of 0.032. Nonsignificant P values exhibited greater statistical instability (median RCFI = 5, RCFQ = 0.023) than significant P values (median CFI = 14, CFQ = 0.062). Interestingly, “fragile” values were found in 36% (9/25) of CFI or 46.7% (7/15) of RCFI. Additionally, fragility index showed a significant association with several variables.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that changing only a small number of interventions (median of 7) could alter outcome significance. Reporting the fragility index alongside P values is recommended to provide a clearer understanding of statistical findings’ robustness.HighlightsThe continuous fragility index (CFI) represents the minimum patient count needed to modify significance by altering their intervention.Among 72 primary continuous outcomes in 64 cardiovascular RCTs, the overall median CFI was 7, with a corresponding CFQ of 0.032.CFI demonstrated moderate to strong correlations with sample size, total dropouts, and patient numbers analyzed.

PMID:39624960 | DOI:10.1080/07853890.2024.2427909