bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FoxO1 as a tissue-specific therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Teaney Nicole A. , Cyr Nicole E.
Published: October 2023

Forkhead box O (FoxO) proteins are transcription factors that mediate many aspects of physiology and thus have been targeted as therapeutics for several diseases including metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). The role of FoxO1 in metabolism has been well studied, but recently FoxO1’s potential for diabetes prevention and therapy has been debated. For example, studies have shown that increased FoxO1 activity in certain tissue types contributes to T2D pathology, symptoms, and comorbidities, yet in other tissue types elevated FoxO1 has been reported to alleviate symptoms associated with diabetes. Furthermore, studies have reported opposite effects of active FoxO1 in the same tissue type. For example, in the liver, FoxO1 contributes to T2D by increasing hepatic glucose production. However, FoxO1 has been shown to either increase or decrease hepatic lipogenesis as well as adipogenesis in white adipose tissue. In skeletal muscle, FoxO1 reduces glucose uptake and oxidation, promotes lipid uptake and oxidation, and increases muscle atrophy. While many studies show that FoxO1 lowers pancreatic insulin production and secretion, others show the opposite, especially in response to oxidative stress and inflammation. Elevated FoxO1 in the hypothalamus increases the risk of developing T2D. However, increased FoxO1 may mitigate Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative disease strongly associated with T2D. Conversely, accumulating evidence implicates increased FoxO1 with Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis. Here we review FoxO1’s actions in T2D conditions in metabolic tissues that abundantly express FoxO1 and highlight some of the current studies targeting FoxO1 for T2D treatment.
Simultaneous immobilization of lead, cadmium and arsenic in soil by iron-manganese modified biochar
Authors: Yang Zhihui , Zeng Gai , Liu Lin , He Fangshu , Arinzechi Chukwuma , Liao Qi , Yang Weichun , Si Mengying
Published: October 2023

Cationic lead/cadmium and anionic arsenic exhibit opposite geochemical behaviors in soils, which makes the synchronous remediation of As, Cd, and Pb challenging. In this study, we developed an iron-manganese modified biochar (BC-Fe-Mn) that prepared from straw with iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) loading at a pyrolysis temperature of 550 °C. After BC-Fe-Mn immobilization for 90 days, the simultaneous immobilization efficiency of Pb, Cd, and As reached 57%, 51%, and 35%, respectively. Speciation distributions shows that As transformed from specific bound state into weakly low crystallinity iron bound state. Cd transformed from carbonate fraction into Fe-Mn oxide bound fraction, and Pb transformed from carbonate fraction into residual state. During the procedure, simultaneous immobilization mechanisms might involve heavy metal morphological transformation, precipitation/co-precipitation, and surface complexation. Cd and Pb absorbed onto BC-Fe-Mn. Then the increased free iron oxides (Fed) reacted with the dissolved As to form iron-arsenic precipitation. The results show that BC-Fe-Mn is a promising material for the simultaneous immobilization of Pb, Cd, and As in multi-metal contaminated soil.
The gut-lung axis in influenza A: the role of gut microbiota in immune balance
Authors: Ou Guosen , Xu Huachong , Wu Jialin , Wang Shiqi , Chen Yaokang , Deng Li , Chen Xiaoyin
Published: October 2023

Influenza A, the most common subtype, induces 3 to 5 million severe infections and 250,000 to 500,000 deaths each year. Vaccination is traditionally considered to be the best way to prevent influenza A. Yet because the Influenza A virus (IAV) is highly susceptible to antigenic drift and Antigenic shift, and because of the lag in vaccine production, this poses a significant challenge to vaccine effectiveness. Additionally, much information about the resistance of antiviral drugs, such as Oseltamivir and Baloxavir, has been reported. Therefore, the search for alternative therapies in the treatment of influenza is warranted. Recent studies have found that regulating the gut microbiota (GM) can promote the immune effects of anti-IAV via the gut-lung axis. This includes promoting IAV clearance in the early stages of infection and reducing inflammatory damage in the later stages. In this review, we first review the specific alterations in GM observed in human as well as animal models regarding IAV infection. Then we analyzed the effect of GM on host immunity against IAV, including innate immunity and subsequent adaptive immunity. Finally, our study also summarizes the effects of therapies using probiotics, prebiotics, or herbal medicine in influenza A on intestinal microecological composition and their immunomodulatory effects against IAV.
CD14highCD16+ monocytes are the main producers of Interleukin-10 following clinical heart transplantation
Authors: Ludwig Kristina , Chichelnitskiy Evgeny , Kühne Jenny F. , Wiegmann Bettina , Iske Jasper , Ledwoch Nadine , Ius Fabio , Beushausen Kerstin , Keil Jana , Iordanidis Susanne , Rojas Sebastian V. , Salman Jawad , Knoefel Ann-Kathrin , Haverich Axel , Warnecke Gregor , Falk Christine S.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Following heart transplantation, a cascade of immunological responses is initiated influencing the clinical outcome and long-term survival of the transplanted patients. The anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10) was shown to be elevated in the blood of heart transplant recipients directly after transplantation but the releasing cell populations and the composition of lymphocyte subsets following transplantation have not been thoroughly studied.

Methods

We identified immune cells by immunophenotyping and analyzed intracellular IL-10 production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of heart transplanted patients (n= 17) before, directly after and 24h post heart transplantation. The cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide or PMA/Ionomycin to enhance cytokine production within leukocytes in vitro.

Results and discussion

We demonstrate that intermediate monocytes (CD14highCD16+), but not CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD56+ NK cells or CD20+ B cells appeared to be the major IL-10 producers within patients PBMC following heart transplantation. Consequently, the absolute monocyte count and the ratio of intermediate monocytes to classical monocytes (CD14+CD16-) were specifically increased in comparison to pre transplant levels. Hence, this population of monocytes, which has not been in the focus of heart transplantation so far, may be an important modulator of clinical outcome and long-term survival of heart transplant recipients. Alteration of blood-circulating monocytes towards a CD14highCD16+ phenotype could therefore shift the pro-inflammatory immune response towards induction of graft tolerance, and may pave the way for the optimization of immunosuppression.
Amplifying mRNA vaccines: potential versatile magicians for oncotherapy
Authors: Hu Chaoying , Liu Jianyang , Cheng Feiran , Bai Yu , Mao Qunying , Xu Miao , Liang Zhenglun
Published: October 2023

Cancer vaccines drive the activation and proliferation of tumor-reactive immune cells, thereby eliciting tumor-specific immunity that kills tumor cells. Accordingly, they possess immense potential in cancer treatment. However, such vaccines are also faced with challenges related to their design and considerable differences among individual tumors. The success of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 has prompted the application of mRNA vaccine technology platforms to the field of oncotherapy. These platforms include linear, circular, and amplifying mRNA vaccines. In particular, amplifying mRNA vaccines are characterized by high-level and prolonged antigen gene expression at low doses. They can also stimulate specific cellular immunity, making them highly promising in cancer vaccine research. In this review, we summarize the research progress in amplifying mRNA vaccines and provide an outlook of their prospects and future directions in oncotherapy.
Dual targeted therapy in patients with psoriatic arthritis and spondyloarthritis: a real-world multicenter experience from Spain
Authors: Valero-Martínez Cristina , Urgelles Judit Font , Sallés Meritxell , Joven-Ibáñez Beatriz E. , de Juanes Alexia , Ramírez Julio , Juanola Xavier , Almodóvar Raquel , Laiz Ana , Moreno Mireia , Pujol Manel , Beltrán Emma , Pinto-Tasende José Antonio , Crespí Laura , Sala-Icardo Luis , Castañeda Santos , García-Vicuña Rosario
Published: October 2023

Dual targeted therapy (DTT) has emerged as a promising approach in patients with refractory spondyloarthritis (SpA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and extra-musculoskeletal manifestations of both diseases, but its effectiveness/safety ratio still remains unclear. This is a retrospective, real-world multicenter study in refractory SpA and PsA patients with simultaneous use of two biological or synthetic targeted agents. Effectiveness was assessed using Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score with C-reactive protein (ASDAS-CRP) and Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis (DAPSA) Score. We identified 39 different DTT combinations in 36 patients (22 SpA; 14 PsA), 25 of them with concomitant inflammatory bowel disease. The most commonly used combinations were TNF inhibitor plus antagonist of the IL12/23 pathway, followed by TNF inhibitor plus IL-17 antagonist. During a median exposure of 14.86 months (IQR 8-20.2), DTT retention rate was 69.4% (n=25/36; 19 SpA, 6 PsA). Major clinical improvement (change in ASDAS-CRP > 2 or improvement > 85% in DAPSA) was achieved in 69.4% of patients (n=25/36 therapeutical combinations; 17/21 SpA, 8/15 PsA), with a 58.3% (n=21/36 combinations; 15/20 SpA, 6/13 PsA) low-activity/remission rate. Of the patients who were receiving glucocorticoids, 55% managed to withdraw them during follow-up. Interestingly, only four serious adverse events in three patients were observed, leading to DTT discontinuation.
Intraocular lens power calculation for silicone oil-dependent eyes
Authors: Wang Leyi , Wang Xin , Yang Xuepeng , Si Yuanyuan , Wu Jiayin , Cui Yan
Published: October 2023

Background

Silicone oil tamponade is widely used in vitreoretinal surgery. In some cases, silicone oil may not be extracted for a long time or even permanently and is referred to as silicone oil-dependent eyes. In this study, we aimed to deduce a theoretical formula for calculating intraocular lens power for silicone oil-dependent eyes and compare it with clinical findings.

Methods

A theoretical formula was deduced using strict geometric optical principles and the Gullstrand simplified eye model. The preoperative and postoperative refractive statuses of patients with silicone oil-dependent eyes who underwent intraocular lens implantation were studied (Group A, n = 13). To further test our derived theoretical formula, patients with silicone oil tamponade and first-stage intraocular lens implantation were included (Group B, n = 19). In total, 32 patients (32 eyes) were included in the study.

Results

In group A, the calculated intraocular lens power based on our formula was 24.96 ± 3.29 diopters (D), and the actual refraction of the patients was 24.02 ± 4.14D. In group B, the theoretical intraocular lens power was 23.10 ± 3.08D, and the clinical intraocular lens power was 22.84 ± 3.42D. There was no significant difference between the theoretical and clinical refractive powers, and the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.771 for group A and 0.811 for group B (both p ≤ 0.001). The mean absolute error for silicone oil-dependent eyes of the formula was 1.66 ± 2.09D. After excluding data for two patients with a flat cornea (corneal refractive power < 42D), the mean absolute error decreased to 0.83 ± 0.62D.

Conclusion

A strong correlation between the theoretical and clinical intraocular lens powers was observed, and the formula we deduced can be used to calculate the intraocular lens power for silicone oil-dependent eyes. This formula will help clinicians select a more appropriate intraocular lens for patients with silicone oil-dependent eyes, especially when the corneal refractive power is ≥42D.
Machine learning-based radiomics to differentiate immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy from limb-girdle muscular dystrophy R2 using MRI
Authors: Wei Ping , Zhong Huahua , Xie Qian , Li Jin , Luo Sushan , Guan Xueni , Liang Zonghui , Yue Dongyue
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a machine learning-based radiomics tools to discriminate between Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy R2 (LGMDR2) and immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM) using lower-limb muscle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination.

Methods

After institutional review board approval, 30 patients with genetically proven LGMDR2 (12 females; age, 34.0 ± 11.3) and 45 patients with IMNM (28 females; age, 49.2 ± 16.6) who underwent lower-limb MRI examination including T1-weighted and interactive decomposition water and fat with echos asymmetric and least-squares estimation (IDEAL) sequences between July 2014 and August 2022 were included. Radiomics features of muscles were obtained, and four machine learning algorithms were conducted to select the optimal radiomics classifier for differential diagnosis. This selected algorithm was performed to construct the T1-weighted (TM), water-only (WM), or the combined model (CM) for calf-only, thigh-only, or the calf and thigh MR images, respectively. And their diagnostic performance was studied using area under the curve (AUC) and compared to the semi-quantitative model constructed by the modified Mercuri scale of calf and thigh muscles scored by two radiologists specialized in musculoskeletal imaging.

Results

The logistic regression (LR) model was the optimal radiomics model. The performance of the WM and CM for thigh-only images (AUC 0.893, 0.913) was better than those for calf-only images (AUC 0.846, 0.880) except the TM. For “calf + thigh” images, the TM, WM, and CM models always performed best (AUC 0.953, 0.907, 0.953) with excellent accuracy (92.0, 84.0, 88.0%). The AUCs of the Mercuri model of the calf, thigh, and “calf + thigh” images were 0.847, 0.900, and 0.953 with accuracy (84.0, 84.0, 88.0%).

Conclusion

Machine learning-based radiomics models can differentiate LGMDR2 from IMNM, performing better than visual assessment. The model built by combining calf and thigh images presents excellent diagnostic efficiency.
Premotor cortex is hypoactive during sustained vowel production in individuals with Parkinson’s disease and hypophonia
Authors: Manes Jordan L. , Kurani Ajay S. , Herschel Ellen , Roberts Angela C. , Tjaden Kris , Parrish Todd , Corcos Daniel M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Hypophonia is a common feature of Parkinson’s disease (PD); however, the contribution of motor cortical activity to reduced phonatory scaling in PD is still not clear.

Methods

In this study, we employed a sustained vowel production task during functional magnetic resonance imaging to compare brain activity between individuals with PD and hypophonia and an older healthy control (OHC) group.

Results

When comparing vowel production versus rest, the PD group showed fewer regions with significant BOLD activity compared to OHCs. Within the motor cortices, both OHC and PD groups showed bilateral activation of the laryngeal/phonatory area (LPA) of the primary motor cortex as well as activation of the supplementary motor area. The OHC group also recruited additional activity in the bilateral trunk motor area and right dorsal premotor cortex (PMd). A voxel-wise comparison of PD and HC groups showed that activity in right PMd was significantly lower in the PD group compared to OHC (p < 0.001, uncorrected). Right PMd activity was positively correlated with maximum phonation time in the PD group and negatively correlated with perceptual severity ratings of loudness and pitch.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that hypoactivation of PMd may be associated with abnormal phonatory control in PD.
Sex-divergent effects of hindbrain GLP-1-producing neuron activation in rats
Authors: Lopez-Ferreras Lorena , Asker Mohammed , Krieger Jean-Philippe , Skibicka Karolina Patrycja
Published: October 2023

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs represent a new class of weight-loss medication, which has recently exponentially grown in popularity. GLP-1 is produced in the intestinal L cells in response to macronutrient intake, but it is also produced in the brain in a subset of neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Exogenously-delivered GLP-1 analogs reduce food intake and food-motivated behavior in male and female rats, with some sex divergence of these effects in specific brain sites. These analogs potentially target GLP-1 receptors endogenously supplied by the gut and brain-produced GLP-1. The function of the NTS GLP-1-producing neurons [Gcg neurons] is still relatively unknown in rats. Moreover, even less is understood about the function of these neurons in females. We have recently developed a transgenic rat that expresses Cre under the Gcg promoter. Here, we interrogate this new animal model with optogenetics and chemogenetics to determine whether activation of the NTS GLP-1 neurons affects ingestive and motivated behavior in male and female rats. Optogenetic activation of the NTS Gcg neurons robustly reduced chow intake in both male and female rats. Interestingly, motivated behavior for a sucrose reward was reduced exclusively in females. To ensure that this unexpected sex difference was not activation method-specific, we next virally introduced excitatory DREADD receptors into the Gcg neurons and investigated the effect of chemogenetic activation of these neurons on ingestive and motivated behavior. Even upon chemogenetic activation, female rats reduced their motivation to obtain the sucrose reward, yet no effect on this behavior was observed in males. Our results show that activation of hindbrain Gcg neurons is sufficient to reduce food intake in both sexes. In females, but not males, Gcg neuron activation alone is also sufficient to reduce motivated behavior for sucrose. Thus, there is a sex difference in the ability of GLP-1-producing neuron activation to control motivated behavior for food.
The influence of physiological and pathological perturbations on blood-brain barrier function
Authors: Zhao Nan , Chung Tracy D. , Guo Zhaobin , Jamieson John J. , Liang Lily , Linville Raleigh M. , Pessell Alex F. , Wang Linus , Searson Peter C.
Published: October 2023

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is located at the interface between the vascular system and the brain parenchyma, and is responsible for communication with systemic circulation and peripheral tissues. During life, the BBB can be subjected to a wide range of perturbations or stresses that may be endogenous or exogenous, pathological or therapeutic, or intended or unintended. The risk factors for many diseases of the brain are multifactorial and involve perturbations that may occur simultaneously (e.g., two-hit model for Alzheimer’s disease) and result in different outcomes. Therefore, it is important to understand the influence of individual perturbations on BBB function in isolation. Here we review the effects of eight perturbations: mechanical forces, temperature, electromagnetic radiation, hypoxia, endogenous factors, exogenous factors, chemical factors, and pathogens. While some perturbations may result in acute or chronic BBB disruption, many are also exploited for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The resultant outcome on BBB function depends on the dose (or magnitude) and duration of the perturbation. Homeostasis may be restored by self-repair, for example, via processes such as proliferation of affected cells or angiogenesis to create new vasculature. Transient or sustained BBB dysfunction may result in acute or pathological symptoms, for example, microhemorrhages or hypoperfusion. In more extreme cases, perturbations may lead to cytotoxicity and cell death, for example, through exposure to cytotoxic plaques.
Differential gradients of immunotherapy vs targeted therapy efficacy according to the sun-exposure pattern of the site of occurrence of primary melanoma: a multicenter prospective cohort study (MelBase)
Authors: Russo David , Dalle Stéphane , Dereure Olivier , Mortier Laurent , Dalac-Rat Sophie , Dutriaux Caroline , Leccia Marie-Thérèse , Legoupil Delphine , Montaudié Henri , Maubec Eve , De Quatrebarbes Julie , Arnault Jean-Philippe , Brocard Florence Granel , Saïag Philippe , Dreno Brigitte , Allayous Clara , Oriano Bastien , Lefevre Wendy , Lebbé Céleste , Boussemart Lise
Published: October 2023

Background

The tumor mutational burden (TMB) is high in melanomas owing to UV-induced oncogenesis. While a high TMB is a predictive biomarker of response to PD-1 inhibitors, it may be associated with the rise of resistant clones to targeted therapy over time. We hypothesized that survivals may depend on both the sun-exposure profile of the site of primary melanoma and the type of systemic treatment.

Patients and methods

Patients were screened from MelBase, a multicenter biobank dedicated to the prospective follow-up of stage III/IV melanoma. All patients with a known cutaneous primary melanoma who received a 1st-line systemic treatment by immunotherapy or targeted therapy were included (2013-2019). Outcomes were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

973 patients received either anti PD-1(n=466), anti CTLA-4(n=143), a combination of both (n=118), or targeted therapies (n=246). Patients’ characteristics at treatment initiation were: male (62%), median age of 62, AJCC stage IV (84%). Median follow-up was 15.5 months. The primary melanoma was located on chronically sun-exposed skin in 202 patients (G1: head neck), on intermittently sun-exposed skin in 699 patients (G2: trunk, arms, legs), and on sun-protected areas in 72 patients (G3: palms, soles). Median PFS was significantly higher in G1 under anti PD-1 treatment (8.7 months vs 3.3 and 3.4 months for G2 and G3, respectively) (p=0.011). PFS did not significantly differ in other groups. Similarly, median OS was significantly higher in G1 receiving 1st line anti PD-1 treatment (45.6 months vs 31.6 and 21.4 months for G2 and G3) (p=0.04), as opposed to 1st line targeted therapy (19.5 months vs 16.3 and 21.1 months for G1, G2 and G3 respectively).

Conclusion

Our study confirms that immunotherapy with anti PD-1 is particularly recommended for melanomas originating from chronically sun-exposed areas, but this finding needs to be confirmed by further research.
Accurate and non-invasive localization of multi-focal ground-glass opacities via electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy assisting video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: a single-center study
Authors: Zeng Chenxi , Yang Guang , Wei Lu , Wang Junhui , Wang Xue , Ye Fan , Fu Xiangning , Cai Yixin , Wang Jianing
Published: October 2023

Background

Accurate localization of multi-focal ground-glass opacities (GGOs) is crucial for successful video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) provides a minimally invasive and dependable approach for precise localization. This study assessed the accuracy and safety of ENB-guided localization in cases involving multi-focal GGOs.

Methods

This retrospective study presents a single-center investigation into ENB-guided localization, utilizing methylene blue, for multi-focal GGOs assisting VATS. Clinical, surgical, and pathological data were collected from patients who underwent ENB-guided localization between 23 December 2019 and 31 August 2022.

Results

The study examined 57 patients with multi-focal GGOs who underwent ENB-guided localization and VATS. A total of 150 GGOs were treated, with ENB-guided localization taking a median time of 65 min. Following localization, all patients proceeded to VATS, with a median duration of 170 min. The median lesion size measured 7.8 mm, with a 5-mm distance between GGO and pleura or fissure. When the distance between GGO and pleura/fissure exceeded 1 cm, an additional location point was introduced below the pleura or fissure based on GGO location. No complications related to localization were observed. The overall malignancy rate stood at 66%. Location precision was confirmed by measuring the marker-to-GGO lesion distance, resulting in a 94% (141/150) accuracy rate for GGO localization.

Conclusion

ENB-guided methylene blue injection is a safe and precise method to treat multi-focal GGOs, potentially minimizing operation time and simplifying lesion detection.
Establishment of a condition-specific quality-of-life questionnaire for children born with esophageal atresia aged 2–7 across 14 countries
Authors:   The International EA-QOL Group
Published: October 2023

Background

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by a discontinuity of the esophagus. Following surgical repair, survival rates have improved dramatically the past decenniums and today exceed 90%, but the children commonly present with esophageal and respiratory morbidity. In 2018, a condition-specific quality-of-life questionnaire for children with esophageal atresia (EA) aged 2–7 in Sweden-Germany was finalized (The EA-QOL questionnaire). The study aim was to describe the evaluation of the new translations across 12 new countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, Central-and North America.

Methods

Following forward-backward translation into the new languages, the 17-item EA-QOL questionnaire was tested in cognitive debriefing interviews with parents of children with EA aged 2–7. Parents rated if each item was easy to understand (clarity) and sensitive to answer (interference with personal integrity). They could skip responding to a non-applicable/problematic item and give open comments. Predefined psychometric criteria were used; item clarity ≥80%/item sensitive to answer ≤20%/item feasibility ≤5% missing item responses. The decision to modify the translation was based on native expert, patient stakeholder, and instrument developer review, and the need for harmonization between translations.

Results

Similar to findings in the Swedish-German cognitive debriefing, the cross-cultural analysis of input from 116 parents from 12 new countries (4–14 parents, median 9 parents/country) showed that all items in the EA-QOL questionnaire fulfilled the criteria for item clarity ≥80% and sensitive to answer (ranging from 1%-4.5%), although results varied between countries. Four items had missing responses between 5.2% and 13.4%, three within the same domain and were in line with parents’ explanations. Poor translations and feasibility were improved.

Conclusions

Based on parent input, the collaboration between native experts, patient stakeholders, and instrument developers, a linguistic version of the EA-QOL questionnaire for children aged 2–7 for use in and across 14 countries has been established. These efforts have set the conditions for a cross-cultural field test of the EA-QOL questionnaire and will open the doors for a new chapter in outcome research, registries, and clinical practice concerning children with EA. In the long-term, this will help increase knowledge of the disease's burden, promote patient-centeredness, exchange of information between nations, and strengthen evidence-based treatments for children born with EA.
The influence of rotation and viscosity on generalized conformable fractional micropolar thermoelasticity with two temperatures
Authors: El-Sapa Shreen , El-Bary Alaa A. , Atef H. M.
Published: October 2023

This research paper presents the generalized micropolar thermo-visco-elasticity model in an isotropic elastic medium that has two temperatures with conformable fractional order theory. The whole elastic medium rotates at a constant angular velocity. The generalized theory of thermoelasticity with one relaxation time is used to describe this model. We aim to study the effect of conformable fractional derivative, effect of rotation, and the two-temperature coefficients. The normal mode analysis is used to acquire the specific articulations for each component under consideration. Moreover, some specific cases are discussed with regarding to the problem. Numerical findings are gathered and displayed graphically for the variables under consideration. The outcomes were analyzed in terms of the presence or absence of rotation, viscosity, conformable fractional parameter and two temperatures for various values.
Genome-wide association analysis of Monilinia fructicola lesion in a collection of Spanish peach landraces
Authors: Martínez-García Pedro J. , Mas-Gómez Jorge , Prudencio Ángela S. , Barriuso Juan José , Cantín Celia M.
Published: October 2023

Brown rot, caused by the Monilinia spp., is the disease that causes the greatest losses in stone fruit worldwide. Currently, M. fructicola has become the dominant species in the main peach production area in Spain. The fruit cuticle is the first barrier of protection against external aggressions and may have a key role in the susceptibility to brown rot. However, information on the role of skin fruit on the resistance to brown rot in peach is scarce. Previous genetic analyses in peach have demonstrated that brown rot resistance is a complex and quantitative trait in which different fruit parts and resistance mechanisms are involved. To search for genomic areas involved in the control of the cultivar susceptibility to brown rot and to elucidate the role of fruit skin against this infection, we have studied, for two consecutive seasons (2019 and 2020), the fruit susceptibility to M. fructicola, together with fruit cuticle thickness (CT) and density (CD), in a collection of 80 Spanish and 5 foreign peach cultivars from the National Peach Collection at CITA (Zaragoza, Spain). Brown rot incidence, lesion diameter, and severity index were calculated after 5 days of inoculation on non-wounded fruit. The peach collection has also been genotyped using the new peach SNP chip (9 + 9K). Genotypic and phenotypic data have been used to perform a genome-wide association analysis (GWAS). Phenotyping has shown a wide variability on the brown rot susceptibility within the Spanish germplasm as well as on CD and CT. The GWAS results have identified several significant SNPs associated with disease severity index (DSI), CD, and CT, five of which were considered as reliable SNP-trait associations. A wide protein network analysis, using 127 genes within the regions of the reliable SNPs and previously identified candidate genes (169) associated with Monilinia spp. resistance, highlighted several genes involved in classical hypersensitive response (HR), genes related to wax layers as ceramidases and lignin precursors catalyzers, and a possible role of autophagy during brown rot infection. This work adds relevant information on the complexity resistance mechanisms to brown rot infection in peach fruits and the genetics behind them.
Mapping of prehaustorial resistance against wheat leaf rust in einkorn (Triticum monococcum), a progenitor of wheat
Authors: Deblieck Mathieu , Ordon Frank , Serfling Albrecht
Published: October 2023

Wheat leaf rust (Puccinia triticina) is one of the most significant fungal diseases of wheat, causing substantial yield losses worldwide. Infestation is currently being reduced by fungicide treatments and mostly vertical resistance. However, these measures often break down when the fungal virulence pattern changes, resulting in a breakdown of vertical resistances. In contrast, the prehaustorial resistance (phr) that occurs in the einkorn–wheat leaf rust interaction is race-independent, characterized by an early defense response of plants during the prehaustorial phase of infestation. Einkorn (Triticum monococcum) is closely related to Triticum urartu as a progenitor of wheat and generally shows a high level of resistance against leaf rust of wheat. Hence, einkorn can serve as a valuable source to improve the level of resistance to the pathogen in future wheat lines. In particular, einkorn accession PI272560 is known to exhibit a hypersensitive prehaustorial effector triggered immune reaction, preventing the infection of P. triticina. Remarkably, this effector-triggered immune reaction turned out to be atypical as it is non-race-specific (horizontal). To genetically dissect the prehaustorial resistance (phr) in PI272560, a biparental F2 population of 182 plants was established after crossing PI272560 with the susceptible T. boeoticum accession 36554. Three genetic maps comprising 2,465 DArT-seq markers were constructed, and a major QTL was detected on chromosome 5A. To locate underlying candidate genes, marker sequences flanking the respective QTL were aligned to the T. urartu reference genome and transcriptome data available from the parental accessions were used. Within the QTL interval of approximately 16.13 million base pairs, the expression of genes under inoculated and non-inoculated conditions was analyzed via a massive analysis of cDNA (MACE). Remarkably, a single gene located 3.4 Mbp from the peak marker within the major QTL was upregulated (20- to 95-fold) after the inoculation in the resistant accession in comparison to the susceptible T. boeoticum accession. This gene belongs to a berberine bridge enzyme-like protein that is suspected to interact on the plant surface with glycoside hydrolases (GH) secreted by the fungus and to induce a hypersensitive defense reaction in the plant after fungal infections.
Genome-wide association study of fiber yield-related traits uncovers the novel genomic regions and candidate genes in Indian upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Joshi Babita , Singh Sanjay , Tiwari Gopal Ji , Kumar Harish , Boopathi Narayanan Manikanda , Jaiswal Sarika , Adhikari Dibyendu , Kumar Dinesh , Sawant Samir V. , Iquebal Mir Asif , Jena Satya Narayan
Published: October 2023

Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is a major fiber crop that is cultivated worldwide and has significant economic importance. India harbors the largest area for cotton cultivation, but its fiber yield is still compromised and ranks 22nd in terms of productivity. Genetic improvement of cotton fiber yield traits is one of the major goals of cotton breeding, but the understanding of the genetic architecture underlying cotton fiber yield traits remains limited and unclear. To better decipher the genetic variation associated with fiber yield traits, we conducted a comprehensive genome-wide association mapping study using 117 Indian cotton germplasm for six yield-related traits. To accomplish this, we generated 2,41,086 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) methods. Population structure, PCA, kinship, and phylogenetic analyses divided the germplasm into two sub-populations, showing weak relatedness among the germplasms. Through association analysis, 205 SNPs and 134 QTLs were identified to be significantly associated with the six fiber yield traits. In total, 39 novel QTLs were identified in the current study, whereas 95 QTLs overlapped with existing public domain data in a comparative analysis. Eight QTLs, qGhBN_SCY_D6-1, qGhBN_SCY_D6-2, qGhBN_SCY_D6-3, qGhSI_LI_A5, qGhLI_SI_A13, qGhLI_SI_D9, qGhBW_SCY_A10, and qGhLP_BN_A8 were identified. Gene annotation of these fiber yield QTLs revealed 2,509 unique genes. These genes were predominantly enriched for different biological processes, such as plant cell wall synthesis, nutrient metabolism, and vegetative growth development in the gene ontology (GO) enrichment study. Furthermore, gene expression analysis using RNAseq data from 12 diverse cotton tissues identified 40 candidate genes (23 stable and 17 novel genes) to be transcriptionally active in different stages of fiber, ovule, and seed development. These findings have revealed a rich tapestry of genetic elements, including SNPs, QTLs, and candidate genes, and may have a high potential for improving fiber yield in future breeding programs for Indian cotton.
Verbal memory and executive components of recall in adolescent binge drinkers
Authors: Porras Truque Claudia , García Moreno Luis Miguel , Gordo Patricia Mateos , Ordoñez Xavier G. , Cadaveira Fernando , Corral Montserrat
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Binge drinking (BD) is a common health-risk behavior among young people. Due to the incomplete maturation of the adolescent brain, BD can lead to structural and functional changes that impact neurocognitive processes, particularly executive functioning and verbal memory. This study aimed to investigate the influence of executive components, such as mnemonic strategies and error avoidance, on performance in a verbal memory test and the potential effects of BD on this performance.

Methods

A sample of 160 college students (51.55% female) with a mean age of 18.12 ± 0.32 years completed assessments for alcohol use disorders using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT), as well as psychopathological (Symptom Checklist-90-R) and neuropsychological evaluations (Verbal Learning Test Spain-Complutense and WMS-III Logical Memory). The Intensive Drinking Evaluation Instrument (IECI) was utilized to gather detailed information about binge drinking habits, including the calculation of the highest blood alcohol concentration (BAC) during an episode of intake.

Results

Correlation and clustering analyses revealed a negative association between BAC values and verbal memory performance, as well as the use of memory strategies. The high BAC group (BD) exhibited negative values in verbal memory variables, higher accuracy errors, and less efficient strategy usage, while the low BAC group (No BD) demonstrated better memory test performance, fewer precision errors, and superior use of memory strategies.

Discussion

These findings support the hypothesis that, when solving tests requiring verbal memory, adolescents reporting a BD consumption pattern show fewer executive skills in their resolution and, therefore, achieved poorer performance than non-binge drinkers. Addressing excessive alcohol consumption in young individuals is crucial for safeguarding their cognitive development and overall well-being.
Influence of job demands on implicit absenteeism in Chinese nurses: mediating effects of work–family conflict and job embeddedness
Authors: Zhang Yujie , Lei Shanyan , Chen Liying , Yang Fang
Published: October 2023

Purpose

It has been widely noted that implicit absenteeism is common among nurses, with job demand influencing it. Theoretically, work–family conflict and job embeddedness may help link job demands to implicit absenteeism. However, the mediating effects of the two on the association between job demands and implicit absenteeism remain unclear. Thus, this study aims to explore the association between nurses’ job demands and implicit absenteeism, and the chain mediating effect of work–family conflict and job embeddedness in this relationship.

Patients and methods

Data were collected from 1,420 nurses from five tertiary public hospitals in China. They were asked to respond to a questionnaire asking about job demands, implicit absenteeism, work–family conflict, and job embeddedness. The data were coded and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 21.0. Descriptive analysis, t-test, one-way ANOVA, hierarchical multiple regression analysis, and bootstrapping were used to analyze the extracted data.

Results

The mean score for implicit absenteeism was 17.75 ± 5.60. There was a significant correlation (p < 0.05) between nurses’ job demands, work–family conflict, job embeddedness, and implicit absenteeism. Nurses’ job demands directly influenced implicit absenteeism and indirectly influenced implicit absenteeism through the mediating effects of work–family conflict and job embeddedness. Furthermore, work–family conflict and job embeddedness have a chain effect on the association between job demands and implicit absenteeism.

Conclusion

The study found that nurses’ job demands directly and positively influence implicit absenteeism, and indirectly influence implicit absenteeism through single and chain mediating effects of work–family conflict and job embeddedness.
Psychological changes among women with recurrent pregnancy loss during the COVID-19 period in northeastern China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Tingting , Hou Yue , Liu Yilin , Qiao Chong
Published: October 2023

Background

It aimed to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) women and the related factors in Northeastern China during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods

From March to June 2021, we conducted an electronic questionnaire survey of 267 RPL women who attended the recurrent pregnancy loss clinic at Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University. The State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS-C) were used to screen for anxiety, depression, stress, and social support. Logistic regression was used to explore the related factors of anxiety and depression.

Results

RPL women had severe psychological problems during the pandemic: 56.6% showed state anxiety or trait anxiety, 26.6% showed high levels of stress, and 13.1% showed depression. Economic pressure caused by COVID-19, and high stress were common related factors for anxiety and depression. The interval since last miscarriage <6 months, worse mood changes due to COVID-19, and concerns about COVID-19 were associated with anxiety. A history of pregnancy loss >14 weeks was associated with depression. While adequate social support and actively seeking health help were protective factors for trait anxiety. And identifying the etiology was a protective factor for depression.

Conclusion

The study revealed the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and the associated factors in RPL women during COVID-19. More attention should be paid to the psychology of RPL women and adequate social support should be provided.
Uncovering Differential Item Functioning effects using MIMIC and mediated MIMIC models
Authors: Tsaousis Ioannis , Alahmandi Maisaa Taleb S. , Asiri Halimah
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was twofold: first, to examine the presence of bias across gender in a scholastic achievement test named the Academic Achievement Test (AAT) for the Science Track. Second, to understand the underlying mechanism that causes these bias effects by examining the effect of general cognitive ability as a mediator. The sample consisted of 1,300 Saudi high school students randomly selected from a larger pool of 173,133 participants to reduce the effects of excessive power. To examine both goals, the Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes (MIMIC) approach for detecting Differential Item Functioning (DIF) items was used. The results showed that 13 AAT items exhibited DIF effects for different gender groups. In most of these items, male participants were more likely to answer them correctly than their female counterparts. Next, the mediated MIMIC approach was applied to explore possible underlying mechanisms that explain these DIF effects. The results from this study showed that general cognitive ability (i.e., General Aptitude Test - GAT) seems to be a factor that could explain why an AAT item exhibits DIF across gender. It was found that GAT scores fully explain the DIF effect in two AAT items (full mediation). In most other cases, GAT helps account for only a proportion of the DIF effect (partial mediation). The results from this study will help experts improve the quality of their instruments by identifying DIF items and deciding how to revise them, considering the mediator’s effect on participants’ responses.
Exploring the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and comorbid heart disease in Americans with mood disorders: a cross-sectional nationwide study
Authors: Habib Maleeha , Jaka Sanobar , Pokhrel Sandesh , Sejdiu Albulena , Patel Archna , Vashist Sreshatha , Arisoyin Abimbola , Pathak Meenal , Bachu Anil K. , Rajaram Manoharan Senthil Vel Rajan , Mogallapu Raja , Patel Rikinkumar S.
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aimed to explore the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and comorbid heart disease in adult inpatients with mood disorders (depressive and bipolar disorders).

Methods

A cross-sectional investigation was carried out employing the nationwide inpatient dataset, which encompassed 910,561 adult inpatients aged 18 to 50 years diagnosed with depressive and bipolar disorders. Additionally, the sample was categorized based on the presence of comorbid heart disease. We utilized a logistic regression model to assess the odds ratio (OR), pertaining to demographic features and coexisting medical conditions in relation to comorbid heart disease.

Results

Comorbid heart disease was present in 1.3% of inpatients with mood disorders; they were middle-aged (mean age 42.7 years) men and White individuals. Inpatients with depressive disorder had a higher risk of comorbid heart disease (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.15–1.24) compared to those with bipolar disorders. Inpatients with comorbid heart disease had a higher prevalence of medical and psychiatric comorbidities. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 2.3% in mood disorders but higher in those with comorbid heart disease (2.9%). Vitamin D deficiency showed a notable correlation with comorbid heart disease, resulting in a 26% increased risk in the unadjusted regression model (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.13–1.40). However, after accounting for potential confounding factors, including comorbidities, the risk did not exhibit statistical significance (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.97–1.21). Among psychiatric comorbidities, trauma-related (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.17–1.28) and tobacco-related (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.26–1.37) disorders had a higher risk of association with comorbid heart disease.

Conclusion

Middle-aged men with depressive disorders and from low-income families had a higher risk of developing comorbid heart disease. Trauma-related and tobacco-related disorders were associated with an increased risk by 20–30% for comorbid heart disease in inpatients with mood disorders. Vitamin D deficiency was not associated with the risk of comorbid heart disease after controlling demographics and comorbid cardiovascular risk factors.
Community treatment of latent tuberculosis in child and adult refugee populations: outcomes and successes
Authors: Harwood-Johnson Emily , Leis Karen S. , Hanson Jacelyn , Olfert Jordan , Blonde Yvonne , Brindamour Mahli
Published: October 2023

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is the world’s leading infectious cause of death, killing millions every year. In Canada, considered a low-incidence country for TB, the burden of the disease is unequally distributed, with most cases of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) experienced by newcomers from endemic regions. The purpose of this study was to measure LTBI treatment acceptance and completion outcomes of LTBI treatment at the REACH clinic in Saskatoon, a local refugee clinic providing primary care-based LTBI management.

Methods

A retrospective case series by sampling methodology was applied to review patients who visited the REACH clinic between January 2017 and June 2021 and who had an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) or tuberculin skin test (TST) done for LTBI screening. Those with positive results were retained for analysis. The LTBI treatment acceptance and completion groups were compared according to demographic variables, WHO regions of origin, year of arrival to Canada, and LTBI treatment regimen.

Results

A total of 523 patients were screened for LTBI, of whom 125 tested positive, leading to a test positivity of 23.9%. The treatment acceptance rate was 84.8%, and the treatment completion rate was 93.3%. All of those who declined treatment were more than 18 years of age (p = 0.02). Otherwise, treatment acceptance and completion rates did not vary significantly in association with gender, categories of refugees, WHO region of origin, year of arrival to Canada, or LTBI treatment regimen used.

Discussion

The refugee clinic acceptance and completion rates in this study are high and meet Canadian TB standards of care. The multidisciplinary clinic model and community support are important facilitators, which, in combination with shorter treatment regimens, offer a path forward for LTBI management among refugees resettling in low-incidence countries.