bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular insights into LINC complex architecture through the crystal structure of a luminal trimeric coiled-coil domain of SUN1
Authors: Gurusaran Manickam , Biemans Jelle J. , Wood Christopher W. , Davies Owen R.
Published: June 2023

The LINC complex, consisting of interacting SUN and KASH proteins, mechanically couples nuclear contents to the cytoskeleton. In meiosis, the LINC complex transmits microtubule-generated forces to chromosome ends, driving the rapid chromosome movements that are necessary for synapsis and crossing over. In somatic cells, it defines nuclear shape and positioning, and has a number of specialised roles, including hearing. Here, we report the X-ray crystal structure of a coiled-coiled domain of SUN1’s luminal region, providing an architectural foundation for how SUN1 traverses the nuclear lumen, from the inner nuclear membrane to its interaction with KASH proteins at the outer nuclear membrane. In combination with light and X-ray scattering, molecular dynamics and structure-directed modelling, we present a model of SUN1’s entire luminal region. This model highlights inherent flexibility between structured domains, and raises the possibility that domain-swap interactions may establish a LINC complex network for the coordinated transmission of cytoskeletal forces.
Effects of orthokeratology lenses on tear film and tarsal glands and control of unilateral myopia in children
Authors: Li Li , Lai Taichen , Zou Jing , Guo Linling , Lin Zhiming , Lin Jiawen , Xue Ying
Published: June 2023

Introduction: To investigate the effects of an orthokeratology lens on the tear film and tarsal glands and myopia control in children with unilateral myopia using an intelligent analysis model.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records from November 2020 to November 2022 of 68 pediatric patients with unilateral myopia in Fujian Provincial Hospital who had been wearing an orthokeratology lens for more than 1 year. The 68 myopic eyes were included in the treatment group, while the 68 healthy, untreated contralateral eyes were included in the control group. Tear film break-up times (TBUTs) were compared between the two groups at various intervals, and an intelligent analysis model was used to compare the deformation coefficients of 10 meibomian glands in the central area and the different positions of the glands in the two groups after 12 months of treatment. Changes in axial length and equivalent spherical power were also compared between the groups before and after 12 months of treatment.

Results: In the treatment group, TBUTs differed significantly between 1 and 12 months after treatment, although no significant differences from baseline were observed at 3 or 6 months. No significant differences in TBUTs were observed at any time point in the control group. After 12 months of treatment, significant between-group differences were observed for glands 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10 (numbered from the temporal to nasal regions). The treatment group also exhibited significant differences in deformation coefficients at different detection positions in the central region, with glands 5 and 6 exhibiting the highest deformation coefficients. Increases in axial length and equivalent spherical power were significantly greater in the control group than in the treatment group after 12 months of treatment.

Discussion: Wearing orthokeratology lenses at night can effectively control myopia progression in children with unilateral myopia. However, long-term use of these lenses may lead to meibomian gland deformation and impact tear film function, and the extent of deformation may vary at different positions in the central region.
Mechanisms of lung damage in tuberculosis: implications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Kayongo Alex , Nyiro Brian , Siddharthan Trishul , Kirenga Bruce , Checkley William , Lutaakome Joloba Moses , Ellner Jerrold , Salgame Padmini
Published: June 2023

Pulmonary tuberculosis is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for COPD. Severe lung function impairment has been reported in post-TB patients. Despite increasing evidence to support the association between TB and COPD, only a few studies describe the immunological basis of COPD among TB patients following successful treatment completion. In this review, we draw on well-elaborated Mycobacterium tuberculosis-induced immune mechanisms in the lungs to highlight shared mechanisms for COPD pathogenesis in the setting of tuberculosis disease. We further examine how such mechanisms could be exploited to guide COPD therapeutics.
Assessment of mortality-related risk factors and effective antimicrobial regimens for treatment of bloodstream infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with hematological diseases
Authors: Zhen Sisi , Zhao Yuanqi , Chen Zhangjie , Zhang Tingting , Wang Jieru , Jiang Erlie , Zhang Fengkui , Mi Yingchang , Zhu Xiaofan , Han Mingzhe , Xiao Zhijian , Wang Jianxiang , Feng Sizhou
Published: June 2023

Background

Infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) are related to higher mortality. The objective of this study was to explore clinical outcomes of CRPA bacteremia, identify risk factors and also, compare the efficacy of traditional and novel antibiotic regimens.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at a blood diseases hospital in China. The study included hematological patients who were diagnosed with CRPA bacteremia between January 2014 and August 2022. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at day 30. Secondary endpoints included 7-day and 30-day clinical cure. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was employed to identify mortality-related risk factors.

Results

100 patients infected with CRPA bacteremia were included and 29 patients accepted allogenic-hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. 24 received ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ-AVI)-based therapy and 76 received other traditional antibiotics. 30-day mortality was 21.0%. Multivariable cox regression analysis showed neutropenia >7 days after bloodstream infections (BSI) (P=0.030, HR: 4.068, 95%CI: 1.146~14.434), higher Pitt bacteremia score (P<0.001, HR:1.824, 95%CI: 1.322~2.517), higher Charlson comorbidity index (P=0.01, HR: 1.613, 95%CI: 1.124~2.315) and bacteremia due to multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR-PA) (P=0.024, HR:3.086, 95%CI: 1.163~8.197) were identified as independent risk factors of 30-day mortality. After controlling for confounders, an additional multivariable cox regression analysis revealed definitive regimens containing CAZ-AVI were associated with lower mortality in CRPA bacteremia (P=0.016, HR: 0.150, 95%CI: 0.032~0.702), as well as in MDR-PA bacteremia (P=0.019, HR: 0.119, 95%CI: 0.020~0.709).

Conclusions

For patients with hematological diseases and CRPA bacteremia, 30-day mortality rate was 21.0% (21/100). Neutropenia >7 days after BSI, higher Pitt bacteremia score, higher Charlson comorbidity index and bacteremia due to MDR-PA increased 30-day mortality. CAZ-AVI-based regimens were effective alternatives for bacteremia due to CRPA or MDR-PA.
Taxonomic and phylogenetic contributions to Fuscoporia (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota): two new species from Hawaii with a key to North American species
Authors: Chen Qian , Liu Lu , Si Jing , Vlasák Josef
Published: June 2023

Fuscoporia is a cosmopolitan, poroid, wood-decaying genus, belonging to the Hymenochaetales. During a study of wood-inhabiting fungi in the USA, four unknown specimens were collected from Hawaii. Both morphological criteria and molecular genetic analyses based on the ITS+nLSU+EF1-α datasets and the nLSU dataset confirmed that these four specimens represent two new species of Fuscoporia, and they are described as F. hawaiiana and F. minutissima. Fuscoporia hawaiiana is characterized by pileate basidiocarps, the absence of cystidioles, hooked hymenial setae, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 4−6 × 3.5−4.5 μm. Fuscoporia minutissima is distinguished by small pores (10−13 per mm) and basidiospores (3.4−4 × 2.4−3 μm). The taxonomic status of the two new species is briefly discussed. A key to the North American species of Fuscoporia is provided.
Egoistic and altruistic behaviors in tobacco control campaign: the role of social media exposure, interpersonal communication and attitudes
Authors: Liu Shiyu , Wu Qiaofei , Luo Xinyuan , Chen Yu , Xu Jing
Published: June 2023

Introduction

A growing body of research has examined the relationship between media exposure to health campaign information and health behaviors, yielding inconsistent findings. To address this inconsistency, it is crucial to investigate the underlying mediation and moderation mechanisms. Building upon the social diffusion model, this study explores the mediating role of interpersonal communication and the moderating role of attitudes in the relationships between health behavioral outcomes and exposure to campaign information.

Method

A tobacco control social media campaign were conducted and assessed via an online survey. Specifically, the survey was conducted from the day after the end of the campaign. Respondents were recruited via Sojump using convenience and snowball sampling. Eligible participants were non-smokers and quitters residing in China and had been exposed to the campaign information. Data were analyzed using the R software.

Results

A total of 326 eligible participants were included in the final analysis. The results suggest that social media exposure to campaign information is indirectly associated with both egoistic and altruistic behavioral intentions through interpersonal communication. However, attitudes toward tobacco control weaken the association between social media exposure to campaign information and interpersonal communication about tobacco risks. Furthermore, the indirect effect of social media exposure to campaign information on egoistic and altruistic behavioral intentions, mediated by interpersonal communication about tobacco risks, is contingent upon attitudes toward tobacco control.

Conclusion

This study tests and supports the proposition that interpersonal communication mediates the effects of campaign information exposure on health behaviors in the context of China, which contributes to the existing literature on the health effects of campaign information exposure and provides implications for the design of health campaigns to more effectively promote healthy behaviors.
Visual cortical processing—From image to object representation
Authors: von der Heydt Rüdiger
Published: June 2023

Image understanding is often conceived as a hierarchical process with many levels, where complexity and invariance of object representation gradually increase with level in the hierarchy. In contrast, neurophysiological studies have shown that figure-ground organization and border ownership coding, which imply understanding of the object structure of an image, occur at levels as low as V1 and V2 of the visual cortex. This cannot be the result of back-projections from object recognition centers because border-ownership signals appear well-before shape selective responses emerge in inferotemporal cortex. Ultra-fast border-ownership signals have been found not only for simple figure displays, but also for complex natural scenes. In this paper I review neurophysiological evidence for the hypothesis that the brain uses dedicated grouping mechanisms early on to link elementary features to larger entities we might call “proto-objects”, a process that is pre-attentive and does not rely on object recognition. The proto-object structures enable the system to individuate objects and provide permanence, to track moving objects and cope with the displacements caused by eye movements, and to select one object out of many and scrutinize the selected object. I sketch a novel experimental paradigm for identifying grouping circuits, describe a first application targeting area V4, which yielded negative results, and suggest targets for future applications of this paradigm.
Effect of trehalose on heart functions in rats model after myocardial infarction: assessment of novel intraventricular pressure and heart rate variability
Authors: Farag Ahmed , Mandour Ahmed S. , Kaneda Masahiro , Elfadadny Ahmed , Elhaieg Asmaa , Shimada Kazumi , Tanaka Ryou
Published: June 2023

Background

Myocardial infarctions remain a leading cause of global deaths. Developing novel drugs to target cardiac remodeling after myocardial injury is challenging. There is an increasing interest in exploring natural cardioprotective agents and non-invasive tools like intraventricular pressure gradients (IVPG) and heart rate variability (HRV) analysis in myocardial infarctions. Trehalose (TRE), a natural disaccharide, shows promise in treating atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of TRE in improving cardiac functions measured by IVPG and HRV and reducing myocardial remodeling following myocardial infarction in rat model.

Methods

Rats were divided into three groups: sham, myocardial infarction (MI), and trehalose-treated MI (TRE) groups. The animals in the MI and TRE groups underwent permanent ligation of the left anterior descending artery. The TRE group received 2% trehalose in their drinking water for four weeks after the surgery. At the end of the experiment, heart function was assessed using conventional echocardiography, novel color M-mode echocardiography for IVPG evaluation, and HRV analysis. After euthanasia, gross image scoring, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative real-time PCR were performed to evaluate inflammatory reactions, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.

Results

The MI group exhibited significantly lower values in multiple IVPG parameters. In contrast, TRE administration showed an ameliorative effect on IVPG changes, with results comparable to the sham group. Additionally, TRE improved HRV parameters, mitigated morphological changes induced by myocardial infarction, reduced histological alterations in wall mass, and suppressed inflammatory reactions within the infarcted heart tissues. Furthermore, TRE demonstrated antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-fibrotic properties.

Conclusion

The investigation into the effect of trehalose on a myocardial infarction rat model has yielded promising outcomes, as evidenced by improvements observed through conventional echocardiography, histological analysis, and immunohistochemical analysis. While minor trends were noticed in IVPG and HRV measurements. However, our findings offer valuable insights and demonstrate a correlation between IVPG, HRV, and other traditional markers of echo assessment in the myocardial infarction vs. sham groups. This alignment suggests the potential of IVPG and HRV as additional indicators for future research in this field.
When blood pressure refuses to budge: exploring the complexity of resistant hypertension
Authors: Champaneria Meeti Keyur , Patel Rushi Sanjaykumar , Oroszi Terry L.
Published: June 2023

Resistant hypertension, defined as blood pressure that remains above goal despite using three or more antihypertensive medications, including a diuretic, affects a significant proportion of the hypertensive population and is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of a wide range of pharmacological therapies, achieving optimal blood pressure control in patients with resistant hypertension remains a significant challenge. However, recent advances in the field have identified several promising treatment options, including spironolactone, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and renal denervation. In addition, personalized management approaches based on genetic and other biomarkers may offer new opportunities to tailor therapy and improve outcomes. This review aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding managing resistant hypertension, including the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical implications of the condition, as well as the latest developments in therapeutic strategies and future prospects.
Prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers and inattention/hyperactivity symptoms in mid to late adolescents
Authors: Park Seonyoung , Cowell Whitney , Margolis Amy E. , Sjodin Andreas , Jones Richard , Rauh Virginia , Wang Shuang , Herbstman Julie B.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) has been associated with increased symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in early to middle childhood, as well as early adolescence. However, data are limited for the long-lasting impact of exposure on outcomes assessed across the entire adolescent period and the sex-specificity of such associations.

Methods

We investigated the association between continuous natural-log-transformed cord plasma PBDE concentrations and ADHD rating scale 4th edition (ADHD-RS-IV) score from mid adolescence (approximately 11 years old) to late adolescence (approximately 17 years old). The study sample includes a subset (n = 219) of the African American and Dominican children enrolled in the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health Mothers and Newborns birth cohort. We used generalized estimating equations to account for the repeated measure of ADHD-RS scores. We examined interactions between exposure to PBDE and sex using cross-product terms and sex-stratified models. In addition, we used linear regression using an age-stratified sample as a sensitivity analysis.

Results and Discussion

Associations between prenatal exposure and parents’ reports of ADHD symptoms varied by sex (p-interaction <0.20), with positive relationships observed among girls but not boys from sex-stratified models. Our finding suggests prenatal exposure to PBDE may affect ADHD symptoms assessed during middle to late adolescence and the sex-specificity of such impact. Our results can be confirmed by future studies with larger and more diverse samples.
A promising self-nanoemulsifying adjuvant with plant-derived saponin D boosts immune response and exerts an anti-tumor effect
Authors: Luo Xing , Song Zhen , Zeng Xiaogqiang , Ye Yan , Zheng Hailin , Cai Dingyi , Yuan Qingpeng , Li Haibo , Tong Yanan , Lu Dongshui , Liu Yuheng , Zeng Hao , Yang Yun , Sun Hongwu , Zou Quanming
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The low immunogenicity of tumor antigens and unacceptable toxicity of adjuvants has hindered the application and development of tumor vaccines. Hence, we designed a novel anti-tumor vaccine composed of a plant-derived immunostimulant molecular nanoadjuvant (a self-nanoemulsifying system, SND) and the antigen OVA, to reinvigorate the immune response and inhibit tumor progression.

Methods

In this study, this novel nanoadjuvant with Saponin D (SND) was designed and prepared by low-energy emulsification methods. Several important characteristics of the SND, including morphology, size, polymer dispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and stability, were estimated, and the cytotoxicity of the SND was evaluated by MTT assay. Additionally, the immune response in terms of antibody titer levels and cellular immunity were evaluated in vivo after immunization with the vaccine, and the preventative and therapeutic effects of this novel vaccine against tumors were estimated. Finally, the antigen release profile was determined by IVIS imaging and by in vivo assay.

Results

This SND nanoadjuvant had good characteristics including the average particle size of 26.35 ± 0.225 nm, narrow distribution of 0.221 ± 1.76, and stability zeta potential of -12.9 ± 0.83 mV. And also, it had good stability (size, PDI, zeta potential, antigen stability) and low toxicity in vitro and in vivo, and delayed antigen release in vivo. The humoral immune response (IgG, IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b) and cellular immune level (cytokines of splenocytes including IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-1β andIL-17A) were both improved greatly after injected immunization at 0, 14, 28 days with the novel nanoadjuvant and antigen OVA. Importantly, this novel nanoadjuvant combined with OVA might lead to the induction of the prevent and treatment efficacy in the E.G7-OVA tumor-bearing mice.

Conclusions

These results suggested that this novel nanoadjuvant encapsulated natural plant immunostimulant molecular OPD could be a good candidate of tumor vaccine adjuvant for reinvigorating the immune response and powerfully inhibiting tumor growth effect.
Identification of common genetic characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis and major depressive disorder by bioinformatics analysis and machine learning
Authors: Jiang Wen , Wang Xiaochuan , Tao Dongxia , Zhao Xin
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Depression is the most common comorbidity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In particular, major depressive disorder (MDD) and rheumatoid arthritis share highly overlapping mental and physical manifestations, such as depressed mood, sleep disturbance, fatigue, pain, and worthlessness. This overlap and indistinguishability often lead to the misattribution of physical and mental symptoms of RA patients to depression, and even, the depressive symptoms of MDD patients are ignored when receiving RA treatment. This has serious consequences, since the development of objective diagnostic tools to distinguish psychiatric symptoms from similar symptoms caused by physical diseases is urgent.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis and machine learning.

Results

The common genetic characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis and major depressive disorder are EAF1, SDCBP and RNF19B.

Discussion

We discovered a connection between RA and MDD through immune infiltration studies: monocyte infiltration. Futhermore, we explored the correlation between the expression of the 3 marker genes and immune cell infiltration using the TIMER 2.0 database. This may help to explain the potential molecular mechanism by which RA and MDD increase the morbidity of each other.
Emerging role of deubiquitination modifications of programmed death-ligand 1 in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Jiang Yao , Hong Kai , Zhao Yingchao , Xu Kai
Published: June 2023

Immune evasion is essential for carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), a critical immune checkpoint molecule, interacts with programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) on immune cells to suppress anti-tumor immune responses. In the past decade, antibodies targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have tremendously altered cancer treatment paradigms. Post-translational modifications have been reported as key regulators of PD-L1 expression. Among these modifications, ubiquitination and deubiquitination are reversible processes that dynamically control protein degradation and stabilization. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are responsible for deubiquitination and have emerged as crucial players in tumor growth, progression, and immune evasion. Recently, studies have highlighted the participation of DUBs in deubiquitinating PD-L1 and modulating its expression. Here, we review the recent developments in deubiquitination modifications of PD-L1 and focus on the underlying mechanisms and effects on anti-tumor immunity.
Opportunities and limitations of large open biodiversity occurrence databases in the context of a Marine Ecosystem Assessment of the Southern Ocean
Authors: Bonnet-Lebrun Anne-Sophie , Sweetlove Maxime , Griffiths Huw J. , Sumner Michael , Provoost Pieter , Raymond Ben , Ropert-Coudert Yan , Van de Putte Anton P.
Published: June 2023

The Southern Ocean is a productive and biodiverse region, but it is also threatened by anthropogenic pressures. Protecting the Southern Ocean should start with well-informed Marine Ecosystem Assessments of the Southern Ocean (MEASO) being performed, a process that will require biodiversity data. In this context, open geospatial biodiversity databases such as OBIS and GBIF provide good avenues, through aggregated geo-referenced taxon locations. However, like most aggregated databases, these might suffer from sampling biases, which may hinder their usability for a MEASO. Here, we assess the quality and distribution of OBIS and GBIF data in the context of a MEASO. We found strong spatial, temporal and taxonomic biases in these data, with several biases likely emerging from the remoteness and inaccessibility of the Southern Ocean (e.g., lack of data in the dark and ice-covered winter, most data describing charismatic or well-known taxa, and most data along ship routes between research stations and neighboring continents). Our identification of sampling biases helps us provide practical recommendations for future data collection, mobilization, and analyses.
Designing of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites for a second-life in the aeronautic industry: strategies towards a more sustainable future
Authors: Borges Carolina , Chícharo A. , Araújo A. , Silva J. , Santos R. M.
Published: June 2023

Over the last few years, the use of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composites (CFRP) in the aeronautic sector has significantly increased, given these materials’ outstanding properties. Consequently, the accumulation of composite residues is becoming an environmental hurdle. Therefore, in a world where sustainability and circularity remain on the lead, the replacement of thermosets by thermoplastics as polymeric matrices emerges as a promising technique, given the recyclability of these materials. Following this perspective, in this work, carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite “residues” were incorporated into a poly(etheretherketone) (PEEK) matrix, as a strategy towards a more sustainable future, aiming at developing novel compounds for the aeronautic industry. The influence of two different fiber sizes (<600 and 600–1000 μm) on the neat PEEK properties was assessed through formulations developed using a co-rotating twin screw-extruder, under optimized processing conditions. Furthermore, the potential thermo-oxidative degradation, and the recycling feasibility of the neat PEEK and its compounds, were evaluated by submitting the materials to several thermo-mechanical cycles. The results showed that PEEK compounds were successfully prepared, and presented a good fiber distribution and absence of fiber agglomerates. A positive impact on the mechanical performance of PEEK was found by the incorporation of 3.3 wt.% of short carbon fibers (sCF) with larger sizes (600–1000 μm). The reprocessing of neat PEEK and its compounds for 15 consecutive cycles demonstrated their remarkable thermo-mechanical stability, without any sign of degradation or irreversible loss of properties. The fiber length and fiber length distribution of reprocessed compounds showed that major variations occurred after the first extrusion cycle, especially for larger sizes.
Corrected evaluation of the breech presentation outcome based on etiology of this presentation in congenitally malformed uterus
Authors: Sekulic Slobodan , Stilinovic Nebojsa , Baturan Branislava , Krsman Anita , Tesic Igor , Vejnovic Aleksandra , Petrovic Djordje , Nikolasevic Zeljka , Mijavec Anna , Pesic Vesna , Petkovic Branka
Published: June 2023

Background

Breech presentation (BP) results from at random filling of the intrauterine cavity, with an equal probability for a BP or cephalic presentation (CP). Each fetus in BP has its “pair” in CP randomly assumed CP. Direct comparison of BP and CP makes bias to less expressed differences between these two groups. It is therefore necessary to subtract the number of fetuses/newborns from the CP set that are identical to the number of fetuses/newborns in the BP set, with identical characteristics, and add this group to the BP set before comparing them to the rest of the CP fetuses/newborns in the matching process.

Methods

The procedure encompasses nine variables in pregnancies with a congenitally malformed uterus (CMU) identified at the Department of Obstetrics (1985–2014): gestational age, birth mass, birth length, head circumference, shoulders circumference, umbilical length, placental weight, newborn mass/newborn length ratio, and newborn mass/placental mass ratio. Firstly, the probability of BP was determined and its relation to gestational age, physical characteristics, and previous presentations. Then direct comparison as well as case–control matching of the CP and BP were performed. Case–control matching was based on either a single specific variable (M1) or all combined variables (M2).

Findings

462 deliveries were identified with CMU. In 81 cases of multiparity, a fetal presentation was found to be an independent event regardless of the previous presentation, gestational age, and newborn physical characteristics. In four types of CMU with 337 deliveries (Bicornuate, Didelphys, Unicornuate, Arcuate), 9 variables with 36 instances of comparison were observed. M1 in 10 instances and M2 in 6 instances showed a statistically significant lower value of breech/random presentation compared with CP. CP have lower value in 2 instances in M1 and 1 in M2. Statistically significant differences were absent without the matching process.

Interpretations

The study confirms the maximum probability for the BP is 50%. The case–control matching procedure shows that it is able to detect the difference between the breech/random presentation and CP, while the classic method of direct comparison was unable to detect any differences. The outcome of the breech/random presentation in CMU should be evaluated with the described case–control matching procedure.
Access to treatment in chronic kidney disease, dialysis and transplantation. Is there gender equality?
Authors: Sleiman Jihan , Soler Pujol Gervasio , Montañez Erika , Roatta Veronica , Laham Gustavo
Published: June 2023

Sex and gender are often used as synonyms. However, while sex describes only a biological state, gender is a dynamic concept that takes into account psychosocial and cultural aspects of human existence that can change according to place and time. Inequality in medicine has been described in several areas. Among them, gender inequality has been disregarded for many years and is now a matter of concern. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing epidemic worldwide, affecting approximately 10% of the population. Although both men and women are affected, gender equality, especially in access to different treatments, is a matter of concern. We decided to investigate gender equality in patients with CKD. To this end, we conducted a literature narrative review to determine whether gender inequalities were found in CKD patients in general and in access to different treatment modalities in particular. A non-language restricted search was performed until November 30th 2022 in PubMed, SciELO, Trip Database, Google Scholar, MEDES y MEDLINE. We also investigated the situation in this regard in our country. We found that CKD is more prevalent in women than men, nevertheless this prevalence decreases along the CKD stages to the point that more men reach end stage kidney disease (ESKD) and dialysis. Access to transplant (ATT) is higher in men than in women although posttransplant survival shows no gender differences. Finally, most series have shown that women are more frequently Kidney transplantation (KT) living donors than men. Results in our country are similar to the published literature with the exception of a higher proportion of men as KT living donors. As in other areas, gender inequality in Nephrology has been largely overlooked. In this review we have highlighted gender differences in CKD patients. Gender inequality in Nephrology exists and needs to be looked upon in order to reach a personalized clinical approach.
Sustained agreement rates in the longitudinal assessment of lupus patients to a Broad Consent for personal data and specimen usage in the RHINEVIT biobank
Authors: Richter Jutta G. , Filla Tim , Acar Hasan , Bleck Ellen , Kernder Anna , Düsing Christina , Vordenbäumen Stefan , Schröder Markus , Hansen Ralf , Distler Jörg H. W. , Schneider Matthias
Published: June 2023

Background

Biobanks are essential structures for scientific research. The RHINEVIT biobank is used to recruit biomaterials from rheumatology patients in outpatient care and to conduct clinical research studies (e.g., cohort studies) and basic research. RHINEVIT established Broad Consents (BC) to allow extensive and relevant usage of data and biospecimens without the need for specific project restrictions. For quality assurance, we compared the consent rate of individual items of the BC versions in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the longitudinal study.

Methods

BCs were used for biomaterial donation. Informed consent data from RHINEVIT were analyzed. Due to the content restructuring of the BC items due to changes from the templates of the working group of the Medical Ethics Commissions in the Federal Republic of Germany and GDPR requirements, content mapping of the items was performed for the analysis.

Results

From September 2015 to March 2022, 291 SLE outpatients donated biomaterials. In 119 patients, the BC was renewed at least once in a subsequent biomaterial donation. Three biomaterial donations were obtained from 21 patients and four from six patients using the respective BC. However, one consent was later revoked. Consent to the BC topics showed consistently high rates of agreement (range 97.5%−100%), with only some patients disagreeing with individual topics. This remained stable over time (median 526 days [Q1 400, Q3 844]). None of the patients disagreed with a certain topic in two consecutive visits.

Conclusion

Modifications to the BC did not result in any relevant changes in the approval rates for SLE patients. RHINEVIT's BC is successfully used for the quality-assured handling of excellently annotated biomaterial. The long-term use of these highly valuable biospecimens for unrestricted research, also in an international context, remains assured.
Retrospective surveillance of viable Bacillus cereus group contaminations in commercial food and feed vitamin B2 products sold on the Belgian market using whole-genome sequencing
Authors: Bogaerts Bert , Fraiture Marie-Alice , Huwaert Astrid , Van Nieuwenhuysen Tom , Jacobs Bram , Van Hoorde Koenraad , De Keersmaecker Sigrid C. J. , Roosens Nancy H. C. , Vanneste Kevin
Published: June 2023

Bacillus cereus is a spore-forming bacterium that occurs as a contaminant in food and feed, occasionally resulting in food poisoning through the production of various toxins. In this study, we retrospectively characterized viable B. cereus sensu lato (s.l.) isolates originating from commercial vitamin B2 feed and food additives collected between 2016 and 2022 by the Belgian Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain from products sold on the Belgian market. In total, 75 collected product samples were cultured on a general medium and, in case of bacterial growth, two isolates per product sample were collected and characterized using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and subsequently characterized in terms of sequence type (ST), virulence gene profile, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) gene profile, plasmid content, and phylogenomic relationships. Viable B. cereus was identified in 18 of the 75 (24%) tested products, resulting in 36 WGS datasets, which were classified into eleven different STs, with ST165 (n = 10) and ST32 (n = 8) being the most common. All isolates carried multiple genes encoding virulence factors, including cytotoxin K-2 (52.78%) and cereulide (22.22%). Most isolates were predicted to be resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics (100%) and fosfomycin (88.89%), and a subset was predicted to be resistant to streptothricin (30.56%). Phylogenomic analysis revealed that some isolates obtained from different products were closely related or even identical indicating a likely common origin, whereas for some products the two isolates obtained did not show any close relationship to each other or other isolates found in other products. This study reveals that potentially pathogenic and drug-resistant B. cereus s.l. can be present in food and feed vitamin B2 additives that are commercially available, and that more research is warranted to assess whether their presence in these types of products poses a threat to consumers.
Diversity, chemical constituents and biological activities of endophytic fungi from Alisma orientale (Sam.) Juzep.
Authors: Shen Nayu , Chen Zhao , Cheng GuiXin , Lin Wenjie , Qin Yihan , Xiao Yirong , Chen Hui , Tang Zizhong , Li Qingfeng , Yuan Ming , Bu Tongliang
Published: June 2023

The dried tuber of Alisma orientale (Sam.) Juzep. (AOJ) is a traditional Chinese medicine with high medicinal value. The endophytic fungi of medicinal plants are a treasure house of natural compounds. However, there is a lack of research on the diversity and biological activity of endophytic fungi of AOJ. In this study, high-throughput sequencing technology was used to study the diversity of endophytic fungi in the roots and stems of AOJ, and endophytic fungi with a high output of phenols and flavonoids were screened by chromogenic reaction, and the antioxidant and antibacterial activities and chemical constituents of crude extracts of their fermentation broth were studied. A total of 3,426 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) belonging to 9 phyla, 27 classes, 64 orders, 152 families, and 277 genera were identified from AOJ. There were significant differences in the endophytic fungal communities of AOJ roots and stems, as well as in the endophytic fungal communities of triangular AOJ and circular AOJ. In addition, 31 strains of endophytic fungi were isolated from AOJ, of which 6 strains had good antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The crude extract of YG-2 had the strongest free radical scavenging ability and bacteriostatic ability, and its IC50DPPH, IC50ABTS, and IC50⋅OH values were 0.009 ± 0.000 mg/mL, 0.023 ± 0.002 mg/mL, and 0.081 ± 0.006 mg/mL, respectively. The results of LC-MS showed that the main component of the crude extract of YG-2 was caffeic acid (10.12 μmol/g). Overall, the results of this study preliminarily elucidated the diversity and community composition of endophytic fungi of AOJ, indicating that AOJ endophytic fungi have abundant secondary metabolites and good antioxidant and antibacterial activities. This study provides an important reference for further research, development and utilization of AOJ endophytic fungi and a theoretical basis for the further development of the endophytic fungus YG-2 (Chaetomium globosum) as a source of antioxidants.
Identification of highly reliable risk genes for Alzheimer’s disease through joint-tissue integrative analysis
Authors: Wang Yong Heng , Luo Pan Pan , Geng Ao Yi , Li Xinwei , Liu Tai-Hang , He Yi Jie , Huang Lin , Tang Ya Qin
Published: June 2023

Numerous genetic variants associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), but their interpretation is hindered by the strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) among the variants, making it difficult to identify the causal variants directly. To address this issue, the transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) was employed to infer the association between gene expression and a trait at the genetic level using expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) cohorts. In this study, we applied the TWAS theory and utilized the improved Joint-Tissue Imputation (JTI) approach and Mendelian Randomization (MR) framework (MR-JTI) to identify potential AD-associated genes. By integrating LD score, GTEx eQTL data, and GWAS summary statistic data from a large cohort using MR-JTI, a total of 415 AD-associated genes were identified. Then, 2873 differentially expressed genes from 11 AD-related datasets were used for the Fisher test of these AD-associated genes. We finally obtained 36 highly reliable AD-associated genes, including APOC1, CR1, ERBB2, and RIN3. Moreover, the GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that these genes are primarily involved in antigen processing and presentation, amyloid-beta formation, tau protein binding, and response to oxidative stress. The identification of these potential AD-associated genes not only provides insights into the pathogenesis of AD but also offers biomarkers for early diagnosis of the disease.
Peripheral and central effects of NADPH oxidase inhibitor, mitoapocynin, in a rat model of diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) toxicity
Authors: Meyer Christina , Rao Nikhil S. , Vasanthi Suraj S. , Pereira Beatriz , Gage Meghan , Putra Marson , Holtkamp Claire , Huss Joselyn , Thippeswamy Thimmasettappa
Published: June 2023

Organophosphates (OP) are highly toxic chemical nerve agents that have been used in chemical warfare. Currently, there are no effective medical countermeasures (MCMs) that mitigate the chronic effects of OP exposure. Oxidative stress is a key mechanism underlying OP-induced cell death and inflammation in the peripheral and central nervous systems and is not mitigated by the available MCMs. NADPH oxidase (NOX) is one of the leading producers of reactive oxygen species (ROS) following status epilepticus (SE). In this study, we tested the efficacy of the mitochondrial-targeted NOX inhibitor, mitoapocynin (MPO) (10 mg/kg, oral), in a rat diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) model of OP toxicity. In DFP-exposed animals, MPO decreased oxidative stress markers nitrite, ROS, and GSSG in the serum. Additionally, MPO significantly reduced proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α post-DFP exposure. There was a significant increase in GP91phox, a NOX2 subunit, in the brains of DFP-exposed animals 1-week post-challenge. However, MPO treatment did not affect NOX2 expression in the brain. Neurodegeneration (NeuN and FJB) and gliosis [microglia (IBA1 and CD68), and astroglia (GFAP and C3)] quantification revealed a significant increase in neurodegeneration and gliosis after DFP-exposure. A marginal reduction in microglial cells and C3 colocalization with GFAP in DFP + MPO was observed. The MPO dosing regimen used in this study at 10 mg/kg did not affect microglial CD68 expression, astroglial count, or neurodegeneration. MPO reduced DFP-induced oxidative stress and inflammation markers in the serum but only marginally mitigated the effects in the brain. Dose optimization studies are required to determine the effective dose of MPO to mitigate DFP-induced changes in the brain.
A deep network-based model of hippocampal memory functions under normal and Alzheimer’s disease conditions
Authors: Kanagamani Tamizharasan , Chakravarthy V. Srinivasa , Ravindran Balaraman , Menon Ramshekhar N.
Published: June 2023

We present a deep network-based model of the associative memory functions of the hippocampus. The proposed network architecture has two key modules: (1) an autoencoder module which represents the forward and backward projections of the cortico-hippocampal projections and (2) a module that computes familiarity of the stimulus and implements hill-climbing over the familiarity which represents the dynamics of the loops within the hippocampus. The proposed network is used in two simulation studies. In the first part of the study, the network is used to simulate image pattern completion by autoassociation under normal conditions. In the second part of the study, the proposed network is extended to a heteroassociative memory and is used to simulate picture naming task in normal and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) conditions. The network is trained on pictures and names of digits from 0 to 9. The encoder layer of the network is partly damaged to simulate AD conditions. As in case of AD patients, under moderate damage condition, the network recalls superordinate words (“odd” instead of “nine”). Under severe damage conditions, the network shows a null response (“I don’t know”). Neurobiological plausibility of the model is extensively discussed.
Study of the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in cerebral infarction patients
Authors: Hoang-Anh Tien , Duong-Minh Quy , Nguyen-Thi-Y Nhi , Duong-Quy Sy
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is the most common respiratory disorder during sleep. Many studies have shown an association between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and stroke, and OSAS has not been adequately considered in Vietnam compared to the actual clinical dangers. This study aims to assess the prevalence and general characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in patients with cerebral infarction and investigate the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and the severity of cerebral infarction.

Methods

Descriptive cross-sectional study. We identified 56 participants from August 2018 to July 2019. Subacute infarcts were identified by neuroradiologists. For each participant, vascular risk factors, medications, clinical symptoms, and neurological examination were abstracted from the medical record. Patients were taken for history and clinical examination. The patients were divided into two groups according to their AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) (<5 and ≥5).

Results

A total of 56 patients were registered for the study. The mean age is 67.70 ± 11.07. The proportion of men is 53.6%. AHI has a positive correlation with neck circumference (r = 0.4), BMI (r = 0.38), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (r = 0.61), LDL cholesterol (r = 0.38), the Modified Rankin Scale (r = 0.49), NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) (r = 0.53), and an inverse correlation with SpO2 (r = 0.61).

Conclusion

Obstructive sleep apnea Syndrome is a factor in the prognosis of cerebral infarction as well as cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension. Thus, understanding the risk of stroke in people with sleep apnea is necessary and working with a doctor to diagnose and treat sleep apnea is important.
Effects of perioperative cognitive function training on postoperative cognitive dysfunction and postoperative delirium: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Li , Zhu Hongyu , Mao Wei , Zhou Xuelei , Xie Ying , Li Linji
Published: June 2023

Background

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown conflicting results regarding the effects of perioperative cognitive training (CT) on the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and postoperative delirium (POD). We, therefore, performed a meta-analysis to assess the overall effects of studies on this topic.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for all RCTs and cohort studies that investigated the effects of perioperative CT on the incidence of POCD and POD. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted independently by two researchers.

Results

This study included nine clinical trials with a total of 975 patients. The results showed that perioperative CT significantly reduced the incidence of POCD compared with the control group [risk ratio (RR) = 0.5, 95% CI (confidence interval): 0.28–0.89, P = 0.02]. Nevertheless, for the incidence of POD, the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant (RR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.29–1.43, P = 0.28). In addition, the CT group had less postoperative decline in the cognitive function scores compared with the control group [mean differences (MD): 1.58, 95% CI: 0.57–2.59, P = 0.002]. In addition, there were no statistically differences in length of hospital stay between the two groups (MD: −0.18, 95% CI: −0.93–0.57, P = 0.64). Regarding CT adherence, the proportion of patients in the cognitive training group who completed the planned duration of CT was 10% (95% CI: 0.05–0.14, P = 0.258).

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis revealed that perioperative cognitive training is possibly an effective measure to reduce the incidence of POCD, but not for the incidence of POD.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022371306, identifier: CRD42022371306.