bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Materials for electrocatalysts in proton exchange membrane fuel cell: A brief review
Authors: Alabi A. S. , Popoola A. P. I. , Popoola O. M. , Mathe N. R. , Abdulwahab M.
Published: February 2023

Energy is a requisite factor for technological advancement and the economic development of any society. Currently, global energy demand and supply largely rely on fossil fuels. The use of fossil fuels as a source of energy has caused severe environmental pollution and global warming. To salvage the dire situation, research effort is geared toward the utilization of clean, renewable and sustainable energy sources and the hydrogen energy economy is among the most preferred choices. Hydrogen energy economy, which includes hydrogen production, storage and conversion has gained wide consideration as an ecofriendly future energy solution with a fuel cell as its conversion device. Fuel cells, especially, the proton exchange membrane category, present a promising technology that converts hydrogen directly into electricity with great efficiency and no hazardous emissions. Unfortunately, the current generation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells faces some drawbacks that prevent them from large-scale market adoption. These challenges include the high costs and durability concerns of catalyst materials. The main source of high cost in fuel cells is the platinum catalyst used in the electrodes, particularly at the cathode where the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction kinetics require high loading of precious metals. Many research efforts on proton exchange membrane fuel cells are directed to reduce the device cost by reducing or completely replacing the platinum metal loading using alternative low-cost materials with “platinum-like” catalytic behaviour while maintaining high power performance and durability. Consequently, this review attempts to highlight recent research efforts to replace platinum and carbon support with other cost-effective and durable materials in proton exchange membrane fuel cell electrocatalysts. Overview of promising materials such as alloy-based (binary, ternary, quaternary and high-entropy alloys), single atom and metal-free electrocatalysts were discussed, as the research areas are still in their infancy and have many open questions that need to be answered to gain insight into their intrinsic requirements that will inform the recommendation for outlook in selecting them as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction in proton exchange membrane fuel cell.
Carbon emission reduction mechanism of the pharmaceutical supply chain: Quadrilateral evolutionary game models
Authors: Zhao Kai , Yang Zheng-Fan , Zhuo Yue , Zhang Shan
Published: February 2023

The climate crisis and the increasing temperature of the earth have highlighted the need to reduce carbon emissions in supply chains, which has gradually become a global consensus. The focus has often been on traditional carbon emission industries, such as energy and transportation, while the pharmaceutical industry has received little attention. This paper, therefore, aims to fill that research gap by exploring the carbon emission reduction mechanisms of the pharmaceutical supply chain, specifically the role of public participation. We constructed a quadrilateral evolutionary game model, based on evolutionary game theory, consisting of local government, pharmaceutical manufacturers, wastewater treatment plants, and the public. By finding the equilibrium point of the system of replicator dynamics, evolutionary stable strategies are obtained. Our numerical simulation shows the impacts of the principal strategy change and the key variables. This paper also identifies some management implications: 1) When local governments implement a combination policy (carbon subsidies and carbon tax policy), the key is to formulate a subsidy level satisfactory to the four parties. If the subsidy level is in the middle level, the four parties are at their most willing to participate in carbon emission reduction. 2) When local governments implement a single policy (carbon tax policy), the carbon tax rate becomes the key variable. A high level of carbon tax accelerates carbon emission reduction in the pharmaceutical supply chain. 3) No matter what policies local governments implement, the free-rider effect between pharmaceutical manufacturers and wastewater treatment plants always hinders their low-carbon decisions. 4) Public reporting is an effective measure for promoting carbon emission reduction in the pharmaceutical supply chain. When local governments implement a combination policy, it can reduce the cost of reporting and improve the willingness of the public to report. Finally, we put forward suggestions for rationalizing carbon emission reduction.
Research on lake water level and its response to watershed climate change in Qinghai Lake from 1961 to 2019
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Zhang Tingjun , Yang Daqing , Wang Guanxin , He Zhuolun , Li Lin
Published: February 2023

Lake water level reflects the dynamic balance of water input and output/loss and is a sensitive indicator of climate change and variation. Studying the relationship between the closed Qinghai Lake water level and watershed climate change is important for understanding regional climate change and its impacts on the lake. The objective of this study was to investigate changes in Qinghai Lake water level/area and environmental factors during 1961–2019, using ground-based measurements data, hydrological balance model and statistical methods. The results revealed two primary phases: during the first phrase (1961–2004), the lake water level lowered by 0.80 m/ decade (p < 0.01), while in the second phase (2004–2019), it rose markedly by 1.80 m/decade (p < 0.01). The lake area increased in April and September between 1990 and 2019, but since 2004 the increases have been more significant. Air temperature near the lake during 1961–2019 warmed by 0.39°C/decade and precipitation increased by 17 mm/decade. Annual river runoff increased at 14.3 mm/decade from 1961 to 2019, however, runoff decreased (−6.8 mm/decade) during the first phase from 1961 to 2004 and increased significantly (84.7 mm/decade) during the second phase from 2004 to 2019. The increases in precipitation and river runoff were the predominant factors contributing to lake water level rises and area expansion, while a decreasing lake water level and area reduction corresponded to reduced precipitation and river runoff and increased evaporation. As a sensitive indicator of regional climate change, the fluctuations of lake water level and surface area provide a comprehensive reflection of climate change in the Qinghai Lake watershed.
Age-related changes in sperm traits and evidence for aging costs of sperm production in a sexually promiscuous passerine
Authors: Míčková Kristýna , Tomášek Oldřich , Jelínek Václav , Šulc Michal , Pazdera Lukáš , Albrechtová Jana , Albrecht Tomáš
Published: February 2023

In many animal species, organismal performance declines with age in a process known as aging or senescence. Senescence typically leads to a deterioration of physiological functionality and can impact the development of primary sexual phenotypes. Sperm production is a complex and costly process that is sensitive to changes in individual physiological state, yet remarkably little is known about age-related changes in sperm performance and aging costs of sperm production. Here we use a non-linear generalized additive mixed models (GAMM) modelling to evaluate age-related changes in postcopulatory sexual traits in the European barn swallow (Hirundo rustica rustica), a relatively short lived sexually promiscuous passerine species, where male extra-pair fertilization success has been shown to increase with age. We confirmed a positive relationship between sperm midpiece length and sperm velocity in this species. Within-male changes in sperm morphology and sperm velocity were in general absent, with only sperm length decreasing linearly with increasing age, although this change was negligible compared to the overall variation in sperm size among males. In contrast, the cloacal protuberance (CP) size changed nonlinearly with age, with an initial increase between the first and third year of life followed by a plateau. The results further indicate the existence of a trade-off between investments in sperm production and survival as males with large CP tended to have a reduced lifespan. This seems consistent with the idea of expensive sperm production and survival aging costs associated with investments in post-copulatory traits in this sexually promiscuous species.
EU regulation of gene-edited plants—A reform proposal
Authors: Voigt Brigitte
Published: February 2023

This article presents a proposal on how the European Union’s regulatory framework on genetically modified (GM) plants should be reformed in light of recent developments in genomic plant breeding techniques. The reform involves a three-tier system reflecting the genetic changes and resulting traits of GM plants. The article is intended to contribute to the ongoing debate over how best to regulate plant gene editing techniques in the EU.
Investigation of distinct gene expression profile patterns that can improve the classification of intermediate-risk prognosis in AML patients
Authors: Eshibona Nasr , Livesey Michelle , Christoffels Alan , Bendou Hocine
Published: February 2023

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous type of blood cancer that generally affects the elderly. AML patients are categorized with favorable-, intermediate-, and adverse-risks based on an individual’s genomic features and chromosomal abnormalities. Despite the risk stratification, the progression and outcome of the disease remain highly variable. To facilitate and improve the risk stratification of AML patients, the study focused on gene expression profiling of AML patients within various risk categories. Therefore, the study aims to establish gene signatures that can predict the prognosis of AML patients and find correlations in gene expression profile patterns that are associated with risk groups.

Methods: Microarray data were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GSE6891). The patients were stratified into four subgroups based on risk and overall survival. Limma was applied to screen for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between short survival (SS) and long survival (LS). DEGs strongly related to general survival were discovered using Cox regression and LASSO analysis. To assess the model’s accuracy, Kaplan-Meier (K-M) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) were used. A one-way ANOVA was performed to assess for differences in the mean gene expression profiles of the identified prognostic genes between the risk subcategories and survival. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed on DEGs.

Results: A total of 87 DEGs were identified between SS and LS groups. The Cox regression model selected nine genes CD109, CPNE3, DDIT4, INPP4B, LSP1, CPNE8, PLXNC1, SLC40A1, and SPINK2 that are associated with AML survival. K-M illustrated that the high expression of the nine-prognostic genes is associated with poor prognosis in AML. ROC further provided high diagnostic efficacy of the prognostic genes. ANOVA also validated the difference in gene expression profiles of the nine genes between the survival groups, and highlighted four prognostic genes to provide novel insight into risk subcategories poor and intermediate-poor, as well as good and intermediate-good that displayed similar expression patterns.

Conclusion: Prognostic genes can provide more accurate risk stratification in AML. CD109, CPNE3, DDIT4, and INPP4B provided novel targets for better intermediate-risk stratification. This could enhance treatment strategies for this group, which constitutes the majority of adult AML patients.
RNA sequencing least shrew (Cryptotis parva) brainstem and gut transcripts following administration of a selective substance P neurokinin NK1 receptor agonist and antagonist expands genomics resources for emesis research
Authors: Irizarry Kristopher J. L. , Zhong Weixia , Sun Yina , Kronmiller Brent A. , Darmani Nissar A.
Published: February 2023

The least shrew is among the subset of animals that are capable of vomiting and therefore serves as a valuable research model for investigating the biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, and genomics of emesis. Both nausea and vomiting are associated with a variety of illnesses (bacterial/viral infections, bulimia, exposure to toxins, gall bladder disease), conditions (pregnancy, motion sickness, emotional stress, overeating) and reactions to drugs (chemotherapeutics, opiates). The severe discomfort and intense fear associated with the stressful symptoms of nausea and emesis are the major reason for patient non-compliance when being treated with cancer chemotherapeutics. Increased understanding of the physiology, pharmacology and pathophysiology underlying vomiting and nausea can accelerate progress for developing new antiemetics. As a major animal model for emesis, expanding genomic knowledge associated with emesis in the least shrew will further enhance the laboratory utility of this model. A key question is which genes mediate emesis, and are they expressed in response to emetics/antiemetics. To elucidate the mediators of emesis, in particular emetic receptors, their downstream signaling pathways, as well as the shared emetic signals, we carried out an RNA sequencing study focused on the central and peripheral emetic loci, the brainstem and gut. Thus, we sequenced RNA extracted from brainstem and gut tissues from different groups of least shrews treated with either a neurokinin NK1 receptor selective emetic agonist, GR73632 (5 mg/kg, i.p.), its corresponding selective antagonist netupitant (5 mg/kg, i.p.), a combination of these two agents, versus their corresponding vehicle-pretreated controls and drug naïve animals. The resulting sequences were processed using a de novo transcriptome assembly and used it to identify orthologs within human, dog, mouse, and ferret gene sets. We compared the least shrew to human and a veterinary species (dog) that may be treated with vomit-inducing chemotherapeutics, and the ferret, another well-established model organism for emesis research. The mouse was included because it does not vomit. In total, we identified a final set of 16,720 least shrew orthologs. We employed comparative genomics analyses as well as gene ontology enrichment, KEGG pathway enrichment and phenotype enrichment to better understand the molecular biology of genes implicated in vomiting.
Risk factors of primary postpartum hemorrhage among postnatal mothers in the public hospital of southern Tigray, Ethiopia, 2019: A case-control study
Authors: Muluye Getachew , Gashaw Abeba , Woretaw Lebasie , Girma Biniam , Tumebo Tarekegn
Published: February 2023

Background

Postpartum hemorrhage is the most common direct cause of maternal mortality and morbidity; among them, primary postpartum hemorrhages are an enormous element. Although it has an incredible impact on maternal lifestyle, this is the most neglected area in Ethiopia and there is a lack of studies achieved within the study area. So this study aimed to identify the risk factors of primary postpartum hemorrhage among postnatal mothers in public hospitals in southern Tigray, Ethiopia, 2019.

Methods

Institution-based unmatched case-control study design was conducted on 318 (106 case and 212 controls) postnatal mothers in public hospitals of Southern Tigray from January to October 2019. We used a pretested, structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and a chart review to collect the data. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify the risk factors. P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statically significant for both steps and an odds ratio with a 95% confidence level was used to see the strength of association.

Results

Abnormal third stage of labor [adjusted odds ratio = 5.86, 95% confidence interval (2.55–13.43), P = 000], cesarean section [adjusted odds ratio = 5.61, 95% confidence interval (2.79–11.30), P = 0.000], lack of active management of third-stage labor [adjusted odds ratio = 3.88; 95% confidence interval (1.29–11.60), P = 0.015], absence of labor monitoring by partograph [adjusted odds ratio = 3.82, 95% confidence interval (1.31–11.09), P = 0.014], lack of antenatal care [adjusted odds ratio = 2.76, 95% confidence interval (1.13–6.75), P = 0.026] and complications during pregnancy [adjusted odds ratio = 2.79, 95% confidence interval (1.34–5.83), P = 0.006] were found to be risk factors for primary postpartum hemorrhage.

Conclusion

In this study complications and lack of maternal health interventions in the course of the antepartum and the intrapartum period were found to be risk factors for primary postpartum hemorrhage. A strategy for improving essential maternal health services and detecting and handling complications in a timely manner will help to prevent primary postpartum hemorrhage.
Potential effects of shift work on skin autoimmune diseases
Authors: Stenger Sarah , Grasshoff Hanna , Hundt Jennifer Elisabeth , Lange Tanja
Published: February 2023

Shift work is associated with systemic chronic inflammation, impaired host and tumor defense and dysregulated immune responses to harmless antigens such as allergens or auto-antigens. Thus, shift workers are at higher risk to develop a systemic autoimmune disease and circadian disruption with sleep impairment seem to be the key underlying mechanisms. Presumably, disturbances of the sleep-wake cycle also drive skin-specific autoimmune diseases, but epidemiological and experimental evidence so far is scarce. This review summarizes the effects of shift work, circadian misalignment, poor sleep, and the effect of potential hormonal mediators such as stress mediators or melatonin on skin barrier functions and on innate and adaptive skin immunity. Human studies as well as animal models were considered. We will also address advantages and potential pitfalls in animal models of shift work, and possible confounders that could drive skin autoimmune diseases in shift workers such as adverse lifestyle habits and psychosocial influences. Finally, we will outline feasible countermeasures that may reduce the risk of systemic and skin autoimmunity in shift workers, as well as treatment options and highlight outstanding questions that should be addressed in future studies.
Research progress on the immunomodulatory mechanism of acupuncture in tumor immune microenvironment
Authors: Wang Na , Zhao Lu , Zhang Dou , Kong Fanming
Published: February 2023

With the constantly deeper understanding of individualized precision therapy, immunotherapy is increasingly developed and personalized. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) mainly consists of infiltrating immune cells, neuroendocrine cells, extracellular matrix, lymphatic vessel network, etc. It is the internal environment basis for the survival and development of tumor cells. As a characteristic treatment of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has shown potentially beneficial impacts on TIME. The currently available information demonstrated that acupuncture could regulate the state of immunosuppression through a range of pathways. An effective way to understand the mechanisms of action of acupuncture was to analyze the response following treatment of the immune system. This research reviewed the mechanisms of acupuncture regulating tumor immunological status based on innate and adaptive immunity.
CD4+ T cells expressing CX3CR1, GPR56, with variable CD57 are associated with cardiometabolic diseases in persons with HIV
Authors: Wanjalla Celestine N. , Gabriel Curtis L. , Fuseini Hubaida , Bailin Samuel S. , Mashayekhi Mona , Simmons Joshua , Warren Christopher M. , Glass David R. , Oakes Jared , Gangula Rama , Wilfong Erin , Priest Stephen , Temu Tecla , Newell Evan W. , Pakala Suman , Kalams Spyros A. , Gianella Sara , Smith David , Harrison David G. , Mallal Simon A. , Koethe John R.
Published: February 2023

Persons with HIV (PWH) on long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) have a higher incidence and prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases attributed, in part, to persistent inflammation despite viral suppression. In addition to traditional risk factors, immune responses to co-infections such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) may play an unappreciated role in cardiometabolic comorbidities and offer new potential therapeutic targets in a subgroup of individuals. We assessed the relationship of CX3CR1+, GPR56+, and CD57+/- T cells (termed CGC+) with comorbid conditions in a cohort of 134 PWH co-infected with CMV on long-term ART. We found that PWH with cardiometabolic diseases (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, calcified coronary arteries, or diabetes) had higher circulating CGC+CD4+ T cells compared to metabolically healthy PWH. The traditional risk factor most correlated with CGC+CD4+ T cell frequency was fasting blood glucose, as well as starch/sucrose metabolites. While unstimulated CGC+CD4+ T cells, like other memory T cells, depend on oxidative phosphorylation for energy, they exhibited higher expression of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1A compared to other CD4+ T cell subsets, suggesting a potentially greater capacity for fatty acid β-oxidation. Lastly, we show that CMV-specific T cells against multiple viral epitopes are predominantly CGC+. Together, this study suggests that among PWH, CGC+ CD4+ T cells are frequently CMV-specific and are associated with diabetes, coronary arterial calcium, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Future studies should assess whether anti-CMV therapies could reduce cardiometabolic disease risk in some individuals.
An advanced understanding of the heterogeneous clinical features of “non-criteria” obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome: Two case reports and a literature review
Authors: Peng Xue , Tan Xi , Xing Aiyun
Published: February 2023

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent venous and/or arterial thrombosis and/or pregnancy complications, in the presence of elevated antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies. APS in pregnant women is referred to as “obstetrical” APS (OAPS). The diagnosis of definite OAPS requires the presence of one or more typical clinical criteria and persistent aPL antibodies at least 12 weeks apart. However, the classification criteria for OAPS have generated wide discussion, with a growing impression that certain patients not fully meeting these criteria might be inappropriately excluded from the classification, which is known as “non-criteria” OAPS. We present here two unique cases of potentially lethal “non-criteria” OAPS, complicating severe preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction (FGR), liver rupture, preterm birth, refractory recurrent miscarriages, or even stillbirth. We further share our diagnostic search and analysis, treatment adjustment, and prognosis for this unusual antenatal event. We will also present a short review of an advanced understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms of this disease, heterogeneous clinical features, and potential significance.
Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5b of Trachinotus ovatus and its heparin-binding motif play a critical role in host antibacterial immune responses via NF-κB pathway
Authors: Du Hehe , Zhou Yongcan , Du Xiangyu , Zhang Panpan , Cao Zhenjie , Sun Yun
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) exerts an essential biological role in many processes, including apoptosis, cellular differentiation, growth, and immune responses. However, compared to mammalians, our knowledge of IGFBP5 in teleosts remains limited.

Methods

In this study, TroIGFBP5b, an IGFBP5 homologue from golden pompano (Trachinotus ovatus) was identified. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to check its mRNA expression level in healthy condition and after stimulation. In vivo overexpression and RNAi knockdown method were performed to evaluate the antibacterial profile. We constructed a mutant in which HBM was deleted to better understand the mechanism of its role in antibacterial immunity. Subcellular localization and nuclear translocation were verified by immunoblotting. Further, proliferation of head kidney lymphocytes (HKLs) and phagocytic activity of head kidney macrophages (HKMs) were detected through CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. Immunofluorescence microscopy assay (IFA) and dual luciferase reporter (DLR) assay were used to evaluate the activity in nuclear factor-κB (NF-κβ) pathway.

Results

The TroIGFBP5b mRNA expression level was upregulated after bacterial stimulation. In vivo, TroIGFBP5b overexpression significantly improved the antibacterial immunity of fish. In contrast, TroIGFBP5b knockdown significantly decreased this ability. Subcellular localization results showed that TroIGFBP5b and TroIGFBP5b-δHBM were both present in the cytoplasm of GPS cells. After stimulation, TroIGFBP5b-δHBM lost the ability to transfer from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. In addition, rTroIGFBP5b promoted the proliferation of HKLs and phagocytosis of HKMs, whereas rTroIGFBP5b-δHBM, suppressed these facilitation effects. Moreover, the in vivo antibacterial ability of TroIGFBP5b was suppressed and the effects of promoting expression of proinflammatory cytokines in immune tissues were nearly lost after HBM deletion. Furthermore, TroIGFBP5b induced NF-κβ promoter activity and promoted nuclear translocation of p65, while these effects were inhibited when the HBM was deleted.

Discussion

Taken together, our results suggest that TroIGFBP5b plays an important role in golden pompano antibacterial immunity and activation of the NF-κβ signalling pathway, providing the first evidence that the HBM of TroIGFBP5b plays a critical role in these processes in teleosts.
Tissue-resident, memory CD8+ T cells are effective in clearing intestinal Eimeria falciformis reinfection in mice
Authors: Shi Fangyun , Zhang Sixin , Zhang Ning , Yu Ying , Sun Pei , Tang Xinming , Liu Xianyong , Suo Xun
Published: February 2023

Eimeria, a cousin of malarial parasites, causes coccidiosis that results in huge losses in the poultry industry. Although live coccidiosis vaccines have been developed and used widely for the successful control of the disease, the mechanism underlying protective immunity remains largely unknown. Using Eimeria falciformis as a model parasite, we observed that tissue-resident memory CD8+ T (Trm) cells accumulated in cecal lamina propria following E. falciformis infection in mice, especially after reinfection. In convalescent mice challenged with a second infection, E. falciformis burden diminished within 48-72 h. Deep-sequencing revealed that CD8+ Trm cells were characterized by rapid up-regulation of effector genes encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines and cytotoxic effector molecules. While FTY720 (Fingolimod) treatment prevented the trafficking of CD8+ T cells in peripheral circulation and exacerbated primary E. falciformis infection, such treatment had no impact on the expansion of CD8+ Trm cells in convalescent mice receiving secondary infection. Adoptive transfer of cecal CD8+ Trm cells conferred immune protection in naïve mice, indicating that these cells provide direct and effective protection against infection. Overall, our findings not only explain a protective mechanism of live oocyst-based anti-Eimeria vaccines but also provide a valuable correlate for assessing vaccines against other protozoan diseases.
A cause–effect relationship between Graves’ disease and the gut microbiome contributes to the thyroid–gut axis: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cao Jiamin , Wang Nuo , Luo Yong , Ma Chen , Chen Zhuokun , Chenzhao Changci , Zhang Feng , Qi Xin , Xiong Wei
Published: February 2023

Background

An association between Graves’ disease (GD) and the gut microbiome has been identified, but the causal effect between them remains unclear.

Methods

Bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was used to detect the causal effect between GD and the gut microbiome. Gut microbiome data were derived from samples from a range of different ethnicities (18,340 samples) and data on GD were obtained from samples of Asian ethnicity (212,453 samples). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected as instrumental variables according to different criteria. They were used to evaluate the causal effect between exposures and outcomes through inverse-variance weighting (IVW), weighted median, weighted mode, MR-Egger, and simple mode methods. F-statistics and sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate bias and reliability.

Results

In total, 1,560 instrumental variables were extracted from the gut microbiome data (p< 1 × 105). The classes Deltaproteobacteria [odds ratio (OR) = 3.603] and Mollicutes, as well as the genera Ruminococcus torques group, Oxalobacter, and Ruminococcaceae UCG 011 were identified as risk factors for GD. The family Peptococcaceae and the genus Anaerostipes (OR = 0.489) were protective factors for GD. In addition, 13 instrumental variables were extracted from GD (p< 1 × 10–8), causing one family and eight genera to be regulated. The genus Clostridium innocuum group (p = 0.024, OR = 0.918) and Anaerofilum (p = 0.049, OR = 1.584) had the greatest probability of being regulated. Significant bias, heterogeneity, and horizontal pleiotropy were not detected.

Conclusion

A causal effect relationship exists between GD and the gut microbiome, demonstrating regulatory activity and interactions, and thus providing evidence supporting the involvement of a thyroid–gut axis.
Ecophysiological basis of spatiotemporal patterns in picophytoplankton pigments in the global ocean
Authors: Phongphattarawat Sornsiri , Bouman Heather A. , Lomas Michael W. , Sathyendranath Shubha , Tarran Glen A. , Ulloa Osvaldo , Zubkov Mikhail V.
Published: February 2023

Information on the intracellular content and functional diversity of phytoplankton pigments can provide valuable insight on the ecophysiological state of primary producers and the flow of energy within aquatic ecosystems. Combined global datasets of analytical flow cytometry (AFC) cell counts and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) pigment concentrations were used to examine vertical and seasonal variability in the ratios of phytoplankton pigments in relation to indices of cellular photoacclimation. Across all open ocean datasets, the weight-to-weight ratio of photoprotective to photosynthetic pigments showed a strong depth dependence that tracked the vertical decline in the relative availability of light. The Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study (BATS) dataset revealed a general increase in surface values of the relative concentrations of photoprotective carotenoids from the winter-spring phytoplankton communities dominated by low-light acclimated eukaryotic microalgae to the summer and early autumn communities dominated by high-light acclimated picocyanobacteria. In Prochlorococcus-dominated waters, the vertical decline in the relative contribution of photoprotective pigments to total pigment concentration could be attributed in large part to changes in the cellular content of photosynthetic pigments (PSP) rather than photoprotective pigments (PPP), as evidenced by a depth-dependent increase of the intracellular concentration of the divinyl chlorophyll-a (DVChl-a) whilst the intracellular concentration of the PPP zeaxanthin remained relatively uniform with depth. The ability of Prochlorococcus cells to adjust their DVChl-a cell-1 over a large gradient in light intensity was reflected in more highly variable estimates of carbon-to-Chl-a ratio compared to those reported for other phytoplankton groups. This cellular property is likely the combined result of photoacclimatory changes at the cellular level and a shift in dominant ecotypes. Developing a mechanistic understanding of sources of variability in pigmentation of picocyanobacteria is critical if the pigment markers and bio-optical properties of these cells are to be used to map their biogeography and serve as indicators of photoacclimatory state of subtropical phytoplankton communities more broadly. It would also allow better assessment of effects on, and adaptability of phytoplankton communities in the tropical/subtropical ocean due to climate change.
Pulmonary sarcoid-like granulomatosis induced by aluminum dust: A case report and literature review
Authors: Du Xuqin , Song Lihong , Feng Ruie , Ye Qiao
Published: February 2023

Case report

We present a case of a 48-year-old woman with 27 months of exposure to aluminum dust and silica owing to polishing processing. The patient was admitted to our hospital with intermittent cough and expectoration. Chest high-resolution computed tomography showed diffuse ill-defined centrilobular nodules and patchy ground-glass opacities in bilateral lungs. A video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery biopsy demonstrated multiple isolated and confluent granulomas in an otherwise normal parenchyma without malignancy or signs of infection. Elemental analysis was performed on the grinding wheel powder in the workplace using an X-ray fluorescence spectrometric analyzer, showing 72.7% of Al2O3 and 22.8% of SiO2 as raw materials. She was diagnosed with aluminum-associated sarcoid-like granulomatous lung disease, rather than sarcoidosis, according to occupational exposure by a multidisciplinary panel.

Conclusion

Occupational aluminum dust exposure may induce pulmonary sarcoid-like granulomatosis recognized by a multidisciplinary diagnostic panel.
Two new species of Exidia sensu lato (Auriculariales, Basidiomycota) based on morphology and DNA sequences
Authors: Tohtirjap Ablat , Hou Shi-Xing , Rivoire Bernard , Gates Genevieve , Wu Fang , Dai Yu-Cheng
Published: February 2023

In the present study, fourteen Exidia-like specimens were collected from China, France, and Australia. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses using the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) and the large subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nLSU), four species in Exidia sensu lato, including Exidia saccharina and Tremellochaete atlantica, and two new species, Exidia subsaccharina and Tremellochaete australiensis, were identified. The four species are described and illustrated in detail. E. saccharina and T. atlantica, two known species from China are reported for the first time. E. subsaccharina and T. australiensis, two new species from France and Australia, respectively are also described. E. subsaccharina is characterized by its reddish brown to vinaceous brown basidiomata, slightly papillate hymenial surface, and narrowly allantoid basidiospores without oil drop measuring 12.5–17.5 × 4.2–5.5 μm. It differs from the similar species, E. saccharina, by distinctly larger basidiospores (12.5–17.5 × 4.2–5.5 vs. 10–14.2 × 3.2–4.5 μm). Tremellochaete australiensis is characterized by its white to grayish blue basidiomata, obviously and densely papillate hymenial surface, and allantoid basidiospores with oil drop measuring 13.8–16.2 × 4.8–6.5 μm. It also can be distinguished from the similar species, T. atlantica and T. japonica, by its distinctly larger basidiospores (13.5–17.8 × 4–5.2 vs. 10–11.8 × 4–4.8 μm in T. atlantica; 9.4–11.8 × 3.5–4.2 μm in T. japonica).
Deep longitudinal multi-omics analysis of Bordetella pertussis cultivated in bioreactors highlights medium starvations and transitory metabolisms, associated to vaccine antigen biosynthesis variations and global virulence regulation
Authors: Anziani Paul , Becker Jérémie , Mignon Charlotte , Arnaud-Barbe Nadège , Courtois Virginie , Izac Marie , Pizzato Romain , Abi-Ghanem Joséphine , Tran Viet-Dung , Sarafian Magali , Bunescu Andrei , Garnier Dominique , Abachin Eric , Renauld-Mongénie Geneviève , Guyard Cyril
Published: February 2023

Bordetella pertussis is the bacterial causative agent of whooping cough, a serious respiratory illness. An extensive knowledge on its virulence regulation and metabolism is a key factor to ensure pertussis vaccine manufacturing process robustness. The aim of this study was to refine our comprehension of B. pertussis physiology during in vitro cultures in bioreactors. A longitudinal multi-omics analysis was carried out over 26 h small-scale cultures of B. pertussis. Cultures were performed in batch mode and under culture conditions intending to mimic industrial processes. Putative cysteine and proline starvations were, respectively, observed at the beginning of the exponential phase (from 4 to 8 h) and during the exponential phase (18 h 45 min). As revealed by multi-omics analyses, the proline starvation induced major molecular changes, including a transient metabolism with internal stock consumption. In the meantime, growth and specific total PT, PRN, and Fim2 antigen productions were negatively affected. Interestingly, the master virulence-regulating two-component system of B. pertussis (BvgASR) was not evidenced as the sole virulence regulator in this in vitro growth condition. Indeed, novel intermediate regulators were identified as putatively involved in the expression of some virulence-activated genes (vags). Such longitudinal multi-omics analysis applied to B. pertussis culture process emerges as a powerful tool for characterization and incremental optimization of vaccine antigen production.
Cyanobacteria as cell factories for the photosynthetic production of sucrose
Authors: Santos-Merino María , Yun Lisa , Ducat Daniel C.
Published: February 2023

Biofuels and other biologically manufactured sustainable goods are growing in popularity and demand. Carbohydrate feedstocks required for industrial fermentation processes have traditionally been supplied by plant biomass, but the large quantities required to produce replacement commodity products may prevent the long-term feasibility of this approach without alternative strategies to produce sugar feedstocks. Cyanobacteria are under consideration as potential candidates for sustainable production of carbohydrate feedstocks, with potentially lower land and water requirements relative to plants. Several cyanobacterial strains have been genetically engineered to export significant quantities of sugars, especially sucrose. Sucrose is not only naturally synthesized and accumulated by cyanobacteria as a compatible solute to tolerate high salt environments, but also an easily fermentable disaccharide used by many heterotrophic bacteria as a carbon source. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge of the endogenous cyanobacterial sucrose synthesis and degradation pathways. We also summarize genetic modifications that have been found to increase sucrose production and secretion. Finally, we consider the current state of synthetic microbial consortia that rely on sugar-secreting cyanobacterial strains, which are co-cultivated alongside heterotrophic microbes able to directly convert the sugars into higher-value compounds (e.g., polyhydroxybutyrates, 3-hydroxypropionic acid, or dyes) in a single-pot reaction. We summarize recent advances reported in such cyanobacteria/heterotroph co-cultivation strategies and provide a perspective on future developments that are likely required to realize their bioindustrial potential.
Heparan sulfates and heparan sulfate binding proteins in sepsis
Authors: Liao Yi-En , Liu Jian , Arnold Katelyn
Published: February 2023

Heparan sulfates (HSs) are the main components in the glycocalyx which covers endothelial cells and modulates vascular homeostasis through interactions with multiple Heparan sulfate binding proteins (HSBPs). During sepsis, heparanase increases and induces HS shedding. The process causes glycocalyx degradation, exacerbating inflammation and coagulation in sepsis. The circulating heparan sulfate fragments may serve as a host defense system by neutralizing dysregulated Heparan sulfate binding proteins or pro-inflammatory molecules in certain circumstances. Understanding heparan sulfates and heparan sulfate binding proteins in health and sepsis is critical to decipher the dysregulated host response in sepsis and advance drug development. In this review, we will overview the current understanding of HS in glycocalyx under septic condition and the dysfunctional heparan sulfate binding proteins as potential drug targets, particularly, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and histones. Moreover, several drug candidates based on heparan sulfates or related to heparan sulfates, such as heparanase inhibitors or heparin-binding protein (HBP), will be discussed regarding their recent advances. By applying chemical or chemoenzymatic approaches, the structure-function relationship between heparan sulfates and heparan sulfate binding proteins is recently revealed with structurally defined heparan sulfates. Such homogenous heparan sulfates may further facilitate the investigation of the role of heparan sulfates in sepsis and the development of carbohydrate-based therapy.
Incidence of Parkinson’s disease and modifiable risk factors in Korean population: A longitudinal follow-up study of a nationwide cohort
Authors: Kang Sung Hoon , Moon Seok-Joo , Kang Minwoong , Chung Su Jin , Cho Geum Joon , Koh Seong-Beom
Published: February 2023

Introduction

We aimed to investigate the incidence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) by age and year for each sex as well as the modifiable risk factors for PD. Using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service, 938,635 PD and dementia-free participants aged ≥40 years who underwent general health examinations were followed to December 2019.

Methods

We analyzed the PD incidence rates according to age, year and sex. To investigate the modifiable risk factors for PD, we used the Cox regression model. Additionally, we calculated the population-attributable fraction to measure the impact of the risk factors on PD.

Results

During follow-up, 9,924 of the 938,635 (1.1%) participants developed PD. The incidence of PD increased continuously from 2007 to 2018, reaching 1.34 per 1,000 person-years in 2018. The incidence of PD also increases with age, up to 80 y. Presence of hypertension (SHR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.14), diabetes (SHR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.31), dyslipidemia (SHR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.18), ischemic stroke (SHR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.36), hemorrhagic stroke (SHR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.47), ischemic heart disease (SHR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.17), depression (SHR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.53 to 1.69), osteoporosis (SHR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.30), and obesity (SHR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.10) were independently associated with a higher risk for PD.

Discussion

Our results highlight the effect of modifiable risk factors for PD in the Korean population, which will help establish health care policies to prevent the development of PD.
Alcohol and energy drinks: individual contribution of common ingredients on ethanol-induced behaviour
Authors: Tarragon Ernesto
Published: February 2023

Since energy drinks (EDs) were sold to the general public as soft drinks and recreational beverages, mixing EDs with ethanol has grown in popularity, particularly among younger people. Given the research that links these drinks with higher risk behaviors and increased ethanol intake, ethanol combined with EDs (AmEDs) is a particularly worrying combination. EDs generally commonly include a variety of ingredients. Sugar, caffeine, taurine, and B-group vitamins are almost always present. Studies on the combined effect of ethanol and sugar and caffeine on ethanol-induced behaviors are extensive. Not so much in regards to taurine and vitamins. This review briefly summarises available information from research on the isolated compounds on EtOH-induced behaviors first, and secondly, the combination of AmEDs on EtOH effects. The conclusion is that additional research is needed to fully comprehend the characteristics and consequences of AmEDs on EtOH-induced behaviors.
Morphometric and microstructural characteristics of hippocampal subfields in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy and their correlates with mnemonic discrimination
Authors: Comino Garcia-Munoz Alicia , Alemán-Gómez Yasser , Toledano Rafael , Poch Claudia , García-Morales Irene , Aledo-Serrano Ángel , Gil-Nagel Antonio , Campo Pablo
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Pattern separation (PS) is a fundamental aspect of memory creation that defines the ability to transform similar memory representations into distinct ones, so they do not overlap when storing and retrieving them. Experimental evidence in animal models and the study of other human pathologies have demonstrated the role of the hippocampus in PS, in particular of the dentate gyrus (DG) and CA3. Patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE-HE) commonly report mnemonic deficits that have been associated with failures in PS. However, the link between these impairments and the integrity of the hippocampal subfields in these patients has not yet been determined. The aim of this work is to explore the association between the ability to perform mnemonic functions and the integrity of hippocampal CA1, CA3, and DG in patients with unilateral MTLE-HE.

Method

To reach this goal we evaluated the memory of patients with an improved object mnemonic similarity test. We then analyzed the hippocampal complex structural and microstructural integrity using diffusion weighted imaging.

Results

Our results indicate that patients with unilateral MTLE-HE present alterations in both volume and microstructural properties at the level of the hippocampal subfields DG, CA1, CA3, and the subiculum, that sometimes depend on the lateralization of their epileptic focus. However, none of the specific changes was found to be directly related to the performance of the patients in a pattern separation task, which might indicate a contribution of various alterations to the mnemonic deficits or the key contribution of other structures to the function.

Discussion

we established for the first time the alterations in both the volume and the microstructure at the level of the hippocampal subfields in a group of unilateral MTLE patients. We observed that these changes are greater in the DG and CA1 at the macrostructural level, and in CA3 and CA1 in the microstructural level. None of these changes had a direct relation to the performance of the patients in a pattern separation task, which suggests a contribution of various alterations to the loss of function.
The efficacy of self-exercise in a patient with cervicogenic dizziness: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Piromchai Patorn , Toumjaidee Nattaporn , Srirompotong Somchai , Yimtae Kwanchanok
Published: February 2023

Background

Cervicogenic dizziness is a clinical syndrome characterized by neck pain and dizziness. Recent evidence suggested that self-exercise could improve a patient's symptoms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of self-exercise as an add-on therapy in patients with non-traumatic cervicogenic dizziness.

Methods

Patients with non-traumatic cervicogenic dizziness were randomly assigned to the self-exercise and control groups. The self-exercise group was instructed to perform muscle, mobilization, and oculomotor training at home while there was no specific training given to the control group. The neck pain, dizziness symptoms, and their impact on daily life were evaluated by the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scale, the Neck Disability Index (NDI) scale, and the visual analog scale (VAS). The objective outcomes included the range of motion test of the neck and the posturography test. All outcomes were evaluated at 2 weeks after the initial treatment.

Results

A total of 32 patients participated in this study. The average age of the participants was 48 years. The DHI score of the self-exercise group after the treatment was significantly lower when compared to the control group [mean difference (MD) 25.92 points, 95% CI 4.21–47.63, p = 0.021]. The NDI score after treatment was also significantly lower in the self-exercise group (MD 6.16 points, 95% CI 0.42–11.88, p = 0.036). However, there was no statistical difference in the VAS score, the range of motion test, and the posturography test between the two groups (p > 0.05). No significant side effects were noted in either of the groups.

Conclusion

Self-exercise is effective in reducing dizziness symptoms and its impact on daily life in patients with non-traumatic cervicogenic dizziness.