bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of dam discharges and tides to transport of Yangtze River using coastal acoustic tomography systems
Authors: Xiao Cong , Zhu Xiao-Hua , Zhu Zenan , Zhang Chuanzheng , Zheng Hua , Zhang Zhensheng , Zhong Jiwen , Wei Lixin
Published: December 2022

The streamflow characteristics within the Yangtze River Basin have experienced substantial fluctuations in recent years because of the combined effects of environmental factors and intensive human activities. In this study, at the Datong station, two coastal acoustic tomography (CAT) systems were used to track the Yangtze River discharge from July 2018 to January 2021. The stage–discharge relationship presented large uncertainties because of the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) operations, whereas the CAT method performed effectively in discharge monitoring even during extreme flood events. The distribution of downstream discharge was concentrated because of the regulation by the TGD. Analysis of the potential drivers in the downstream river hydrology reveals that the effect of rainfall events (leading to a maximum of ~40% changes) was heavily influenced by the regulation by the TGD (at least 50% contribution). Additionally, the river–tide process is also sensitive to the discharge regulated by the TGD. The discharge induced by tidal waves was negligible (a maximum of 1.11% change). This work demonstrates that an acoustic method can effectively monitor the massive flood discharge in unsteady flow conditions in large rivers, thereby facilitating the management of large-scale dam- and tide-influenced river systems.
Parametric study of passive piles subjected to adjacent surcharge load in extensively deep soft soil
Authors: Yi Shixuan
Published: December 2022

This study applied the three-dimensional finite different method (FDM) to model a single pile subjected to passive loading due to a new embankment in extensively soft soil. Four important parameters (pile bending stiffness, distance between the long edge of the loading area and the pile (D), embankment height, and cushion thickness) were investigated to evaluate their effects on the deformations and stresses on the passive pile. The displacement of the pile shaft, vertical displacement of the foundation soil, excess pore water pressure (EPWP), and lateral earth pressure were analyzed. The numerical results showed that the lateral displacement of the pile was significantly affected by the four parameters. The maximum lateral displacement decreased dramatically for the high-stiffness pile. A cushion thickness of <1 m slightly increased the lateral displacement of the pile. Increased D value and decreased embankment height significantly reduced the lateral displacement of the pile. The vertical displacement of the loading area was unaffected by pile stiffness. The distribution shape of the vertical displacement was close to symmetrical with increasing D value. The embankment height and cushion thickness significantly affected the vertical displacement. Due to the low permeability of the foundation soil and short construction time, the EPWP was not fully dissipated with varying pile stiffness and D values. A decreased pile stiffness increased the lateral earth pressure at the pile, while increasing embankment height and cushion thickness increased the lateral earth pressure.
Iodine contrast exposure and incident COVID-19 infection
Authors: Tsai Karen , Inoue Kosuke , McClean Michael , Kaunitz Jonathan D. , Akiba Yasutada , Lee Martin L. , Neverova Natalia V. , Currier Jesse W. , Ebrahimi Ramin , Bashir Muhammad T. , Leung Angela M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Iodine and particularly its oxidated forms have long been recognized for its effective antiseptic properties. Limited in vitro and in vivo data suggest that iodine exposure may rapidly inactivate, reduce transmission, and reduce infectivity of SARS-CoV-2. We hypothesized that iodine exposure may be associated with decreased incident COVID-19 infection.

Methods

A retrospective population-level cohort analysis was performed of the U.S. Veterans Health Administration between 1 March 2020 and 31 December 2020, before the widespread availability of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated the adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the associations between iodinated contrast exposure and incident COVID-19 infection, adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, place of residence, socioeconomic status, and insurance status.

Results

530,942 COVID-19 tests from 333,841 Veterans (mean ± SD age, 62.7 ± 15.2 years; 90.2% men; 61.9% non-Hispanic Whites) were analyzed, of whom 9% had received iodinated contrast ≤60 days of a COVID-19 test. Iodine exposure was associated with decreased incident COVID-19 test positivity (OR, 0.75 95% CI, 0.71–0.78). In stratified analyses, the associations between iodinated contrast use and decreased COVID-19 infection risk did not differ by age, sex, and race/ethnicity.

Conclusion

Iodine exposure may be protective against incident COVID-19 infection. Weighed against the risks of supraphysiologic iodine intake, dietary, and supplemental iodine nutrition not to exceed its Tolerable Upper Limit may confer an antimicrobial benefit against SARS-CoV-2. A safe but antimicrobial level of iodine supplementation may be considered in susceptible individuals, particularly in geographic regions where effective COVID-19 vaccines are not yet readily available.
Exploring modulations in T-cell receptor-mediated T-cell signaling events in systemic circulation and at local disease site of patients with tubercular pleural effusion: An attempt to understand tuberculosis pathogenesis at the local disease site
Authors: Sharma Bhawna , Rathour Diwakar , Uddin Sumbul , Joshi Beenu , Chauhan Devendra Singh , Kumar Santosh
Published: December 2022

Introduction

T cells are crucial for pathogenesis as well as control for tuberculosis (TB). Although much is known about the signaling pathways which are required for the activation of T cells during acute infection but the way these cells respond during persistent of infection still remained elusive. Therefore, it is rationale to understand T cell activation during tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE), which is similar to bacterial persistency system.

Methods

Herein, we will employ T cell receptor (TCR) based approaches for studying events of T cell activation pathways in cells of blood and pleural fluid among patients with TPE. We performed spectrofluorimetric analysis to study effect of M. tuberculosis antigens, ESAT-6 and Ag85A stimulation on intracellular calcium levels, Phosphorylation levels of ZAP-70 (Zeta-chain-associated protein kinase 70), PKC-θ (Protein kinase C theta), Erk1/2 (Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2) and p-38 two important members of MAPKs (Mitogen activated Protein kinases) in CD3 and CD28 induced cells of blood and pleural fluid of same patients with TPE by western blotting. Patients with non-TPE were also included as matching disease controls in this study.

Results

We observed significantly higher intracellular calcium levels, Phosphorylation levels of ZAP-70, Erk1/2 and p-38 in CD3 and CD28 induced cells of pleural fluid as compared to the blood cells of same patients with TPE. Alteration in the activation of these events has also been noted after stimulation of ESAT-6 and Ag85A.

Discussion

Present study demonstrated up-regulated activation of TCR mediated T cell signaling events at local disease site (Pleural fluid) as compared to the blood sample of TB pleurisy patients which could be involved in T-cell dysfunctioning during the progression of the disease and also could be responsible for Th 1 dominance at local disease site in patients with TPE.
Transcriptional differences between major Fusarium pathogens of maize, Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium graminearum with different optimum growth temperatures
Authors: Liu Ning , Chen Yue , Liu Jing , Su Qianfu , Zhao Bin , Sun Manli , Jia Hui , Cao Zhiyan , Dong Jingao
Published: December 2022

Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium graminearum are important pathogens causing disease in maize (Zea mays) worldwide. The distributions of these fungal pathogens vary greatly in different regions and in different years, and are influenced by environmental and climatic conditions. Temperature has significant effects on the growth and mycotoxin production of Fusarium species. In this study, the effects of temperature on the growth and pathogenicity of F. verticillioides and F. graminearum were investigated. F. verticillioides grew fastest and exhibited the strongest pathogenicity to maize stems and grains at 30°C, while F. graminearum grew best at 20°C. Both species produced more toxins at 20°C than at 30°C. To explain the interspecific differences in the relationship of growth and temperature, RNA-seq was used to compare F. verticillioides and F. graminearum cultivated for 4 d at the optimum temperatures of 30°C and 20°C, respectively. Samples of F. verticillioides were also cultivated for 9 d (to maximize toxin production) at 20°C and 30°C and analyzed by RNA-seq to investigate the influence of temperature for different growth stages. The differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by comparison of cultures grown for the same amount of time but at different temperatures. GO enrichment analysis showed high enrichment of DEGs in categories of membrane part, catalytic activity, metabolic process, and growth at warmer temperature resulted in more down-regulated DEGs enriched in membrane components in all groups. KEGG analysis revealed enrichment of DEGs related to different temperatures in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism pathways. For both species, there was decreased expression of many DEGs related to amino acid metabolism when cultivated at warm temperature, such as genes related to beta-alanine metabolism and arginine and proline metabolism. However, changes in genes related to glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism and fatty acid degradation were more related to the growth state. The results showing different responses pattern of these pathways provides a foundation for further investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying distinct thermal ecological niches of F. verticillioides and F. graminearum.
Dynamics of symbiotic bacterial community in whole life stage of Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Du Lingen , Xue Hui , Hu Fangmei , Zhu Xiangzhen , Wang Li , Zhang Kaixin , Li Dongyang , Ji Jichao , Niu Lin , Luo Junyu , Cui Jinjie , Gao Xueke
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Bacteria play critical roles in the reproduction, metabolism, physiology, and detoxification of their insect hosts. The ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis) harbors a myriad of endosymbiotic microbes. However, to date, little is known about how the microbial composition of H. axyridis varies throughout its life cycle.

Methods

In this study, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and quantitative PCR were employed to investigate the diversity and dynamics of bacterial symbionts across the egg, larval, pupae, and adults stages of H. axyridis.

Results

Higher bacterial community richness and diversity were observed in eggs, followed by those in adults and pupae. The community richness index differed significantly between second-instar larvae and other developmental stages. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria were the dominant phyla. Staphylococcus, Enterobacter, Glutamicibacter, and Acinetobacter were the dominant bacteria genera; however, their relative abundances fluctuated across host developmental stages. Interestingly, the larval stage harbored high proportions of Firmicutes, whereas the adult microbial community largely consisted of Proteobacteria.

Discussion

This study is the first to determine the symbiotic bacterial composition across key life stages of H. axyridis. These outcomes can foster the development of environmental risk assessments and novel biological control strategies.
Isothermal inactivation of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in curd simulating the stretching phase in pasta-filata cheese process
Authors: Barsi Filippo , Dalzini Elena , Russo Simone , Cosciani-Cunico Elena , Monastero Paola , Arrigoni Norma , Garbarino Chiara Anna , Cortimiglia Claudia , Losio Marina Nadia , Ricchi Matteo
Published: December 2022

Raw milk and dairy products are usually considered the major sources of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) exposure for humans. During the production process of mozzarella cheese, as well as of other pasta-filata cheeses made with pasteurized or raw milk, curd is heated and stretched by addition of hot or boiling water. This step is the critical point for the inactivation of MAP during the production process, but, to our knowledge, no studies have been published about the thermal death time values of MAP in curd. The aim of this study was to determine the inactivation kinetics of MAP in curd used to produce pasta-filata cheese in six independent experiments. The milk was inoculated with a mix of MAP strains (field and registered strains) and, with the aim to simulate the thermal treatment of the curd during the stretching step, samples of 10 g of contaminated curd were vacuum packed and treated separately at six different temperatures from 60°C to 75°C in a water bath. MAP survival was then evaluated by plate count method and inactivation parameters were estimated for determining the thermal resistance of the pathogen directly in the curd. D-values increased from 0.15 min (D75-value) to 4.22 min (D60-value) and the calculated z-value was 10.2°C. These data aid: (i) to design food thermal process treatments defining acceptance limits of critical control points to ensure safety against MAP; (ii) to predict the time/temperature combinations needed to obtain a certain MAP log reduction during the curd stretching step; (iii) to optimize or validate pasta-filata cheese process.
Rad5 participates in lesion bypass through its Rev1-binding and ubiquitin ligase domains, but not through its helicase function
Authors: Masłowska Katarzyna H. , Pagès Vincent
Published: December 2022

DNA Damage Tolerance (DDT) functions to bypass replication-blocking lesions and is divided into two distinct pathways: error-prone Translesion Synthesis (TLS) and error-free Damage Avoidance (DA). Rad5 is a multifunctional protein that is involved in these DDT processes. Saccharomyces cerevisiae Rad5 contains three well defined domains: a RING domain that promotes PCNA polyubiquitination, a ssDNA-dependent ATPase/helicase domain, and a Rev1-binding domain. Both the RING domain and the ATPase/helicase domain are conserved in human Rad5 ortholog HLTF. In this study we used domain-specific mutants to address the contribution of each of the Rad5 domains to the lesion tolerance. We demonstrate that the two critical functions of Rad5 during DNA damage tolerance are the activation of template switching through polyubiquitination of PCNA and the recruitment of TLS polymerases, and that loss of one of those functions can be compensated by increased usage of the other. We also show that, unlike previously suggested, the helicase activity does not play any role in lesion tolerance.
Effect of β-hydroxybutyrate on behavioral alterations, molecular and morphological changes in CNS of multiple sclerosis mouse model
Authors: Sun Wei , Wen Min , Liu Min , Wang Qingpeng , Liu Quiqin , Li Lanjie , Siebert Hans-Christian , Loers Gabriele , Zhang Ruiyan , Zhang Ning
Published: December 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and degenerative disease of central nervous system (CNS). Aging is the most significant risk factor for the progression of MS. Dietary modulation (such as ketogenic diet) and caloric restriction, can increase ketone bodies, especially β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). Increased BHB has been reported to prevent or improve age-related disease. The present studies were performed to understand the therapeutic effect and potential mechanisms of exogenous BHB in cuprizone (CPZ)-induced demyelinating model. In this study, a continuous 35 days CPZ mouse model with or without BHB was established. The changes of behavior function, pathological hallmarks of CPZ, and intracellular signal pathways in mice were detected by Open feld test, Morris water maze, RT-PCR, immuno-histochemistry, and western blot. The results showed that BHB treatment improved behavioral performance, prevented myelin loss, decreased the activation of astrocyte as well as microglia, and up-regulated the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor in both the corpus callosum and hippocampus. Meanwhile, BHB treatment increased the number of MCT1+ cells and APC+ oligodendrocytes. Furthermore, the treatment decreased the expression of HDAC3, PARP1, AIF and TRPA1 which is related to oligodendrocyte (OL) apoptosis in the corpus callosum, accompanied by increased expression of TrkB. This leads to an increased density of doublecortin (DCX)+ neuronal precursor cells and mature NeuN+ neuronal cells in the hippocampus. As a result, BHB treatment effectively promotes the generation of PDGF-Ra+ (oligodendrocyte precursor cells, OPCs), Sox2+ cells and GFAP+ (astrocytes), and decreased the production of GFAP+ TRAP1+ cells, and Oligo2+ TRAP1+ cells in the corpus callosum of mouse brain. Thus, our results demonstrate that BHB treatment efficiently supports OPC differentiation and decreases the OLs apoptosis in CPZ-intoxicated mice, partly by down-regulating the expression of TRPA1 and PARP, which is associated with the inhibition of the p38-MAPK/JNK/JUN pathway and the activation of ERK1/2, PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling, supporting BHB treatment adjunctive nutritional therapy for the treatment of chronic demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS).
A novel gait analysis system for detecting abnormal hemiparetic gait patterns during robot-assisted gait training: A criterion validity study among healthy adults
Authors: Imoto Daisuke , Hirano Satoshi , Mukaino Masahiko , Saitoh Eiichi , Otaka Yohei
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Robot-assisted gait training has been reported to improve gait in individuals with hemiparetic stroke. Ideally, the gait training program should be customized based on individuals’ gait characteristics and longitudinal changes. However, a gait robot that uses gait characteristics to provide individually tailored gait training has not been proposed. The new gait training robot, “Welwalk WW-2000,” permits modification of various parameters, such as time and load of mechanical assistance for a patient’s paralyzed leg. The robot is equipped with sensors and a markerless motion capture system to detect abnormal hemiparetic gait patterns during robot-assisted gait training. Thus, it can provide individually tailored gait training. This study aimed to investigate the criterion validity of the gait analysis system in the Welwalk WW-2000 in healthy adults.

Materials and methods

Twelve healthy participants simulated nine abnormal gait patterns that were often manifested in individuals with hemiparetic stroke while wearing the robot. Each participant was instructed to perform a total of 36 gait trials, with four levels of severity for each abnormal gait pattern. Fifteen strides for each gait trial were recorded using the markerless motion capture system in the Welwalk WW-2000 and a marker-based three-dimensional (3D) motion analysis system. The abnormal gait pattern index was then calculated for each stride from both systems. The correlation of the index values between the two methods was evaluated using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients for each gait pattern in each participant.

Results

Using the participants’ index values for each abnormal gait pattern obtained using the two motion analysis methods, the median Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients ranged from 0.68 to 0.93, which corresponded to moderate to very high correlation.

Conclusion

The gait analysis system in the Welwalk WW-2000 for real-time detection of abnormal gait patterns during robot-assisted gait training was suggested to be a valid method for assessing gait characteristics in individuals with hemiparetic stroke.

Clinical trial registration

[https://jrct.niph.go.jp], identifier [jRCT 042190109].
Application and progress of transcranial substantial ultrasound in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ma Xishun , Li Tongxia , Du Lizhen , Han Tongliang
Published: December 2022

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common nervous system disease, mainly manifested as motor retardation, resting tremor, etc. (1). The clinical features of early PD patients are not characteristic, and diagnosis is very difficult. When obvious PD manifestations are found, the number of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra of patients has been reduced by more than half, and the treatment is difficult (2). Early diagnosis or auxiliary diagnosis of PD in clinical work is crucial for the treatment of PD and the prognosis of patients. In recent years, cerebral ultrasound has been widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of some diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, tuberculous meningitis, brain injury, etc., especially for the study of PD. The European Union of neuroscience and the latest diagnostic guidelines for PD in China have confirmed the role of the transcranial sonography (TCS). This article reviews the recent advances in the study of PD by transcranial sonography.
Frontotemporal phase lag index correlates with seizure severity in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Mao Lingyan , Zheng Gaoxing , Cai Yang , Luo Wenyi , Zhang Qianqian , Peng Weifeng , Ding Jing , Wang Xin
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To find the brain network indicators correlated with the seizure severity in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) by graph theory analysis.

Methods

We enrolled 151 patients with TLE and 36 age- and sex-matched controls with video-EEG monitoring. The 90-s interictal EEG data were acquired. We adopted a network analyzing pipeline based on graph theory to quantify and localize their functional networks, including weighted classical network, minimum spanning tree, community structure, and LORETA. The seizure severities were evaluated using the seizure frequency, drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), and VA-2 scores.

Results

Our network analysis pipeline showed ipsilateral frontotemporal activation in patients with TLE. The frontotemporal phase lag index (PLI) values increased in the theta band (4–7 Hz), which were elevated in patients with higher seizure severities (P < 0.05). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that the VA-2 scores were independently correlated with frontotemporal PLI values in the theta band (β = 0.259, P = 0.001) and age of onset (β = −0.215, P = 0.007).

Significance

This study illustrated that the frontotemporal PLI in the theta band independently correlated with seizure severity in patients with TLE. Our network analysis provided an accessible approach to guide the treatment strategy in routine clinical practice.
Patterns of vestibular dysfunction in chronic traumatic brain injury
Authors: Taylor Rachael L. , Wise Kim J. , Taylor Denise , Chaudhary Shikha , Thorne Peter R.
Published: December 2022

Background

Dizziness and imbalance are common following traumatic brain injury (TBI). While these symptoms are often attributed to vestibular dysfunction, the relative contribution of peripheral vs. central mechanisms is unclear. This study investigated the prevalence of semicircular canal and otolith abnormalities in a cohort of patients with chronic TBI and symptoms of dizziness or imbalance. The relationship between vestibular, oculomotor and posturography results was further explored.

Methods

Clinical records of patients attending the New Zealand Dizziness and Balance Centre from January 2015 to December 2019 were reviewed for consideration in the study. Inclusion required: an age of 18–80 years, a diagnosed TBI, and vestibular assessment using three-dimensional video head impulses (vHIT), cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (c and o VEMPs, respectively) and caloric testing. Severe TBI, pre-existing vestibular diagnoses, and incomplete test results were excluded. Rates of abnormalities were determined for each test and compared with results of oculomotor function testing and postural control, measured using the sensory organization test (SOT).

Results

Of 158 reviewed records, 99 patients aged 49 ± 15 years (59 female) fulfilled criteria for inclusion in the study. The median time between the head injury and the clinical assessment was 12 (IQR 6–21) months. Abnormalities involving one or more components of the vestibular labyrinth and/or nerve divisions were identified in 33 of 99 patients (33.3%). The horizontal semicircular canal was most frequently affected (18.2%), followed by the saccule (14.1%), utricle (8.1%), posterior (7.1%) and anterior (2.0%) semicircular canals. Vestibular test abnormalities were associated with skull-base fractures, superior canal dehiscence, and focal ear trauma. Oculomotor dysfunction and postural instability were recorded in 41.1 and 75.5% of patients, respectively. Postural instability correlated with abnormal oculomotor function (p = 0.008) but not peripheral vestibular hypofunction (p = 0.336).

Conclusions

Dizziness and/or imbalance in chronic TBI was associated with impaired postural stability for tasks requiring high levels of use of vestibular and visual input for balance. Vestibular hypofunction identified through vHIT, VEMP and caloric testing was recorded but was less common, except when the injury involved a fractured skull-base. There was no specific pattern of end-organ or nerve involvement which characterized this group of patients.
Association between loneliness and dementia risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Qiao Luyao , Wang Gege , Tang Zhenyu , Zhou Siqi , Min Jun , Yin Min , Li Min
Published: December 2022

Loneliness has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of dementia; however, the extent of this relationship remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the strength of the relationship between loneliness and dementia using a meta-analysis approach. PubMed, EMBASE, and China National Knowledge Internet databases were systematically searched for potentially included studies from inception up to 17 February 2022. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to assess pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A literature search identified 16 cohort studies (published in 15 articles), among which 4,625 dementia cases and 62,345 individuals were selected for further meta-analysis. Loneliness was associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (RR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.32–2.23; P < 0.001) and dementia (RR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.16–1.31; P < 0.00001). However, no significant association between loneliness and risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (RR: 1.34, 95% CI: 0.97–1.87; P = 0.080) or vascular dementia (VaD) (RR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.51–1.99; P = 0.973) was observed. Results revealed that loneliness might increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Early interventions that limit loneliness may reduce risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
CYP11B1 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to ischemic stroke in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Liu Gaowen , Duan Ying
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Ischemic stroke (IS) is the major cause of death and disability. While previous studies confirmed that CYP11B1 is closely associated with IS, the present study aimed to analyze the impact of CYP11B1 gene polymorphisms on the IS susceptibility.

Methods

The present study genotyped six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (including rs4736312, rs5017238, rs5301, rs5283, rs6410, and rs4534) of CYP11B1 in peripheral blood samples from IS and control populations. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the association between the SNPs and IS risk. The multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) method was used to determine the roles of SNP–SNP interactions in IS.

Results

The present study showed that rs5283 was associated with an increased susceptibility to IS [odds ratio (OR) 1.81, p = 0.012]. On the contrary, rs6410 had a protective influence on IS risk (OR 0.56, p = 0.020). Stratified analyses indicated that rs5283 could enhance the risk of IS in subjects aged >63 years (OR 2.41, p = 0.011), of female gender (OR 3.31, p = 0.001), that do not smoke (OR 1.64, p = 0.005), and with hypertension (OR 2.07, p = 0.003). Whereas, rs6410 was related to a lower susceptibility to IS in subjects aged >63 years (OR 0.43, p = 0.032), of female gender (OR 0.30, p = 0.006), do not smoke (OR 0.42, p = 0.017), and with hypertension (OR 0.52, p = 0.022). Besides, rs4736312 reduced the IS susceptibility in non-smokers (OR 0.69, p = 0.031). Rs4534 had a risk-decreasing impact on IS in non-drinking (OR 0.54, p = 0.016). Moreover, the results of the MDR analysis corroborate that the best prediction model for IS was rs5283.

Conclusion

This study revealed that CYP11B1 gene polymorphisms strongly correlated with IS in the Chinese Han population.
Explainable AI: A review of applications to neuroimaging data
Authors: Farahani Farzad V. , Fiok Krzysztof , Lahijanian Behshad , Karwowski Waldemar , Douglas Pamela K.
Published: December 2022

Deep neural networks (DNNs) have transformed the field of computer vision and currently constitute some of the best models for representations learned via hierarchical processing in the human brain. In medical imaging, these models have shown human-level performance and even higher in the early diagnosis of a wide range of diseases. However, the goal is often not only to accurately predict group membership or diagnose but also to provide explanations that support the model decision in a context that a human can readily interpret. The limited transparency has hindered the adoption of DNN algorithms across many domains. Numerous explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques have been developed to peer inside the “black box” and make sense of DNN models, taking somewhat divergent approaches. Here, we suggest that these methods may be considered in light of the interpretation goal, including functional or mechanistic interpretations, developing archetypal class instances, or assessing the relevance of certain features or mappings on a trained model in a post-hoc capacity. We then focus on reviewing recent applications of post-hoc relevance techniques as applied to neuroimaging data. Moreover, this article suggests a method for comparing the reliability of XAI methods, especially in deep neural networks, along with their advantages and pitfalls.
Study on the physicochemical and flavor characteristics of air frying and deep frying shrimp (crayfish) meat
Authors: Zhou Mingzhu , Shi Gangpeng , Deng Yi , Wang Chao , Qiao Yu , Xiong Guangquan , Wang Lan , Wu Wenjin , Shi Liu , Ding Anzi
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to compare the changes in the quality characteristics of air-fried (AF) shrimp meat and deep-fried (DF) shrimp meat at different frying temperatures (160, 170, 180, 190°C). Results showed that compared with DF, the moisture and fat content of air-fried shrimp meat (AFSM) was lower, while the protein content was higher. At the same frying temperature, the fat content of the AFSM was 4.26–6.58 g/100 g lower than that of the deep-fried shrimp meat (DFSM). The smell of the AFSM and DFSM was significantly different from that of the control group. The results of the electronic tongue showed that each of the two frying methods had its flavor profile. Gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) identified 48 compounds, and the content of volatile compounds detected in AFSM was lower than that in DFSM. Among them, the highest level of volatile compound content was found in the DF-190. E-2-pentenal, 2-heptenal (E), and methyl 2-methyl butanoate were identified only in DFSM. In addition, a total of 16 free amino acids (FAAs) were detected in shrimp meat. As judged by sensory evaluation, the AFSM at 170°C was the most popular among consumers.
Microbial diversity of meat products under spoilage and its controlling approaches
Authors: Zhu Yanli , Wang Wei , Li Ming , Zhang Jiamin , Ji Lili , Zhao Zhiping , Zhang Rui , Cai Demin , Chen Lin
Published: December 2022

Meat spoilage (MS) is a complex microbial ecological process involving multiple specific microbial interactions. MS is detrimental to people's health and leads to the waste of meat products which caused huge losses during production, storage, transportation, and marketing. A thorough understanding of microorganisms related to MS and their controlling approaches is a necessary prerequisite for delaying the occurrence of MS and developing new methods and strategies for meat product preservation. This mini-review summarizes the diversity of spoilage microorganisms in livestock, poultry, and fish meat, and the approaches to inhibit MS. This would facilitate the targeted development of technologies against MS, to extend meat's shelf life, and effectively diminish food waste and economic losses.
Association between handgrip strength and metabolic syndrome: A meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Wen Yu , Liu Tiancong , Ma Changcheng , Fang Jianwei , Zhao Zhiying , Luo Mengrui , Xia Yang , Zhao Yuhong , Ji Chao
Published: December 2022

Background

Although muscle strength has been reported to be associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), the association is still controversial. Therefore, the purpose of this meta-analysis was to identify the association between handgrip strength (HGS) and MetS.

Methods

Original research studies involving HGS and MetS from database inception to 20 May 2022 were selected from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang databases, and Chinese Biomedical Document Service System. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of MetS for HGS were calculated using a random-effects model. A dose–response analysis was performed. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were also conducted.

Results

Thirty effect sizes (reported in 19 articles) with a total of 43,396 participants were included in this meta-analysis. All studies were considered to be of moderate-to-good quality. An inverse association between HGS (low vs. high) with MetS was shown (OR: 2.59, 95% CI: 2.06−3.25). Subgroup analyses demonstrated the pooled ORs of relative HGS (HGS/weight), relative HGS (HGS/BMI), and absolute HGS were 2.97 (95% CI: 2.37−3.71), 2.47 (95% CI: 1.08−5.63), and 1.34 (95% CI: 1.06−1.68), respectively. Dose–response analysis revealed a significant linear dose–response relationship between relative HGS (HGS/weight) and MetS in observational studies (0.1 HGS/weight: OR, 0.68; 95% CI: 0.62−0.75). Univariate meta-regression analysis indicated that country status, measuring tools of HGS, components of MetS, and diagnosed criteria of MetS explained 16.7%, 26.2%, 30.1%, and 42.3% of the tau-squared in the meta-regression, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of the current meta-analysis indicated that lower HGS is associated with a higher risk of MetS. A linear dose–response association between lower relative HGS (HGS/weight) and increased prevalence of MetS was found. Accordingly, a lower HGS is a significant predictor of MetS.

Systematic review registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/], identifier [CRD42021276730].
A retrospective analysis based on multiple machine learning models to predict lymph node metastasis in early gastric cancer
Authors: Yang Tao , Martinez-Useros Javier , Liu JingWen , Alarcón Isaias , Li Chao , Li WeiYao , Xiao Yuanxun , Ji Xiang , Zhao YanDong , Wang Lei , Morales-Conde Salvador , Yang Zuli
Published: December 2022

Background

Endoscopic submucosal dissection has become the primary option of treatment for early gastric cancer. However, lymph node metastasis may lead to poor prognosis. We analyzed factors related to lymph node metastasis in EGC patients, and we developed a construction prediction model with machine learning using data from a retrospective series.

Methods

Two independent cohorts’ series were evaluated including 305 patients with EGC from China as cohort I and 35 patients from Spain as cohort II. Five classifiers obtained from machine learning were selected to establish a robust prediction model for lymph node metastasis in EGC.

Results

The clinical variables such as invasion depth, histologic type, ulceration, tumor location, tumor size, Lauren classification, and age were selected to establish the five prediction models: linear support vector classifier (Linear SVC), logistic regression model, extreme gradient boosting model (XGBoost), light gradient boosting machine model (LightGBM), and Gaussian process classification model. Interestingly, all prediction models of cohort I showed accuracy between 70 and 81%. Furthermore, the prediction models of the cohort II exhibited accuracy between 48 and 82%. The areas under curve (AUC) of the five models between cohort I and cohort II were between 0.736 and 0.830.

Conclusions

Our results support that the machine learning method could be used to predict lymph node metastasis in early gastric cancer and perhaps provide another evaluation method to choose the suited treatment for patients.
PABPC1——mRNA stability, protein translation and tumorigenesis
Authors: Qi Ya , Wang Min , Jiang Qi
Published: December 2022

Mammalian poly A-binding proteins (PABPs) are highly conserved multifunctional RNA-binding proteins primarily involved in the regulation of mRNA translation and stability, of which PABPC1 is considered a central regulator of cytoplasmic mRNA homing and is involved in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes by regulating almost every aspect of RNA metabolism. Alterations in its expression and function disrupt intra-tissue homeostasis and contribute to the development of various tumors. There is increasing evidence that PABPC1 is aberrantly expressed in a variety of tumor tissues and cancers such as lung, gastric, breast, liver, and esophageal cancers, and PABPC1 might be used as a potential biomarker for tumor diagnosis, treatment, and clinical application in the future. In this paper, we review the abnormal expression, functional role, and molecular mechanism of PABPC1 in tumorigenesis and provide directions for further understanding the regulatory role of PABPC1 in tumor cells.
The lowest level of tumor involvement is a significant prognostic factor for upper tract urothelial carcinoma after radical nephroureterectomy: A large retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Ying-Che , Wang Hung-Jen , Sung Min-Tse , Chuang Yao-Chi , Chen Yen-Ta , Cheng Yuan-Tso , Kang Chih-Hsiung , Liu Hui-Ying , Chang Yin-Lun , Chiang Po-Hui , Luo Hao-Lun
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the prognostic impact of the lowest level of tumor location for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) treated with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU).

Materials and methods

Data were collected from patients with UTUC treated with RNU (01/2005- 06/2020) at a single center in Taiwan. Patients were stratified by the lowest level of tumor location into three groups: renal pelvis only (RPO), above upper ureter (AUU), and below upper ureter (BUU). We compared characteristics between groups and examined the association of the lowest level of tumor involvement with intravesical recurrence (IVR), systemic metastasis (SM), and cancer-specific mortality (CSM).

Results

Overall, 1239 patients (542 RPO, 260 AUU, 437 BUU) were enrolled. Concurrent bladder cancer, multifocality, tumor architecture, lymphovascular invasion, carcinoma in situ, and variant histology were significantly different across different tumor locations. BUU had worse five-year intravesical recurrence (IVR), systemic metastasis (SM) and cancer-specific mortality (CSM) (p < 0.001, p = 0.056 and p = 0.13, respectively). In multivariable models, the lowest level of tumor involvement was an independent predictor of IVR (AUU hazard ratio (HR) = 1.52, p = 0.007; BUU HR = 1.75, p < 0.001), but only BUU was an independent predictor of SM (HR = 1.61, p = < 0.001) and CSM (HR = 1.51, p = 0.008).

Conclusion

The lowest level of tumor involvement in UTUC, especially BUU, was associated with a higher risk of IVR, SM and CSM. Assessment of the lowest level of tumor involvement after RNU may help identify patients who require more intensive follow-up.
Lactate increases tumor malignancy by promoting tumor small extracellular vesicles production via the GPR81-cAMP-PKA-HIF-1α axis
Authors: Luo Man , Zhu Junqi , Ren Jie , Tong Yuxiao , Wang Limin , Ma Shenglin , Wang Jiaoli
Published: December 2022

Lactate and tumor cell-derived extracellular vesicles (TEVs) both contribute to tumor progression. However, it is still unclear whether lactate can accelerate tumor development by directly promoting TEV production. Here, we show that lactate decreases intracellular cAMP levels and subsequent PKA activation via GPR81, which inhibits the PKA-induced ubiquitination of HIF-1α that causes degradation. Then, the HIF-1α-mediated transcription of Rab27a is enhanced, leading to increased TEV release. In this way, lactate promotes lung metastasis by murine melanoma. In addition, we show that serum lactate levels are positively correlated with serum EV levels and Rab27a and HIF-1α protein levels in the tumor tissues of lung cancer patients. Thus, our results reveal a novel mechanism underlying lactate-mediated tumor progression induced by TEVs and provide new strategies for tumor therapy.
Case Report: A novel LHFPL3::NTRK2 fusion in dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor
Authors: Chen Yanming , Zhu Qing , Wang Ye , Dai Xiaoxiao , Chen Ping , Chen Ailin , Zhou Sujuan , Dai Chungang , Zhao Shengbin , Xiao Sheng , Lan Qing
Published: December 2022

Neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) rearrangements are oncogenic drivers of various types of adult and pediatric tumors, including gliomas. However, NTRK rearrangements are extremely rare in glioneuronal tumors. Here, we report a novel NTRK2 rearrangement in a 24-year-old female with dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNT), a circumscribed WHO grade I benign tumor associated with epilepsy. By utilizing targeted RNA next-generation sequencing (NGS), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR), and Sanger sequencing, we verified an in-frame fusion between NTRK2 and the lipoma HMGIC fusion partner-like 3 (LHFPL3). This oncogenic gene rearrangement involves 5’ LHFPL3 and 3’ NTRK2, retaining the entire tyrosine kinase domain of NTRK2 genes. Moreover, the targeted DNA NGS analysis revealed an IDH1 (p.R132H) mutation, a surprising finding in this type of tumor. The pathogenic mechanism of the LHFPL3::NTRK2 in this case likely involves aberrant dimerization and constitutive activation of RTK signaling pathways.
A mitochondria-related signature for predicting immune microenvironment and therapeutic response in osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhang Lina , Wu Song , Huang Junjie , Shi Yanbin , Yin Yuesong , Cao Xu
Published: December 2022

Background

Osteosarcoma remains to be the most devastating malignant tumor in children and teenagers. Mitochondria have also been proven to play critical roles in osteosarcoma. However, a mitochondria-related signature has been established in osteosarcoma to comprehensively evaluate the pathogenic roles and regulatory roles of mitochondria in osteosarcoma.

Methods

In this study, osteosarcoma samples' transcriptome data and clinical information were collected from Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. A comprehensive bioinformatics analysis was performed on the samples at the bulk RNA sequencing level and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) level. EdU, Transwell, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed on PCCB.

Results

A mitochondria-related signature was constructed in osteosarcoma patients. The prognostic value of the mitochondria-related signature was explored. The predictive value of the mitochondria-related signature in the immune microenvironment and chemotherapy agents was explored. The association between mitochondria and immunity in the tumor microenvironment of osteosarcoma at the scRNA-seq level was investigated. The tumorigenic role of the critical mitochondria-related gene, PCCB, was verified by in vitro validation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a mitochondria-related signature was developed in osteosarcoma with solid predictive values in the immune microenvironment, chemotherapy agents, and prognosis.
Case report: Compound heterozygosity in PKLR gene with a large exon deletion and a novel rare p.Gly536Asp variant as a cause of severe pyruvate kinase deficiency
Authors: Kim Minsun , Lee Seung Yeob , Kim Namsu , Lee Jaehyeon , Kim Dal Sik , Park Joonhong , Cho Yong Gon
Published: December 2022

Red cell pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency is the most common cause of hereditary nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia and the most frequent enzyme abnormality of the glycolytic pathway. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first Korean PK deficiency study that analyzes copy number variation (CNV) using next-generation sequencing (NGS). A 7-year-old girl with jaundice was admitted for evaluation of a persistent hemolytic anemia. The proband appeared chronically ill, showing a yellowish skin color, icteric sclera, hepatomegaly, and splenomegaly on physical examination. Sequence variants and CNV generated from NGS data were estimated to determine if there was a potential genetic cause. As a result, compound heterozygosity in the PKLR gene for a large exon deletion between exon 3 and exon 9 accompanied with a novel rare p.Gly536Asp variant located on exon 10 was identified as a cause of severe PK deficiency in the proband. The PK activity of the proband had been measured at the time of day 1, 21, and 28 after receiving transfusion to indirectly assume the effect of the transfused blood, and the results were 100.9%, 73.0%, and 48.5%, compared with average of normal controls, respectively. Our report emphasizes the need to perform complete CNV analysis of NGS data and gene dosage assays such as multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification to evaluate large deletions or duplications/insertions of the PKLR gene in patients with suspected PK deficiency.
Advances in extraction methods, chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, molecular targets and toxicology of volatile oil from Acorus calamus var. angustatus Besser
Authors: Bai Daoming , Li Xiaoyu , Wang Shengguang , Zhang Tianyi , Wei Yumin , Wang Qingquan , Dong Weichao , Song Jing , Gao Peng , Li Yanan , Wang Shaoping , Dai Long
Published: December 2022

Acorus calamus var. angustatus Besser (ATT) is a traditional herb with a long medicinal history. The volatile oil of ATT (VOA) does possess many pharmacological activities. It can restore the vitality of the brain, nervous system and myocardial cells. It is used to treat various central system, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It also showed antibacterial and antioxidant activity. Many studies have explored the benefits of VOA scientifically. This paper reviews the extraction methods, chemical components, pharmacological activities and toxicology of VOA. The molecular mechanism of VOA was elucidated. This paper will serve as a comprehensive resource for further carrying the VOA on improving its medicinal value and clinical use.