bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using immersive virtual reality to recreate the synaesthetic experience
Authors: Taylor Rebecca , Savickaite Sarune , Henderson Susanna , Simmons David
Published: September 2023

Synaesthesia is a condition where people experience unusual sensory or cognitive sensations in response to apparently unrelated stimuli. This paper presents two experiments which aimed to examine whether Virtual Reality (VR) technology can be used to recreate the synaesthetic experience. There is a lack of research in this area, with most studies focussing primarily on synaesthetic colors. Experiment 1 aimed to build on previous research by using not only a traditional color-picker but also VR to capture a more nuanced picture of synaesthetic perception. A multiple case study design was used to examine the experiences of six participants in detail. Data gathering took place via Zoom. During the initial data-gathering session, participants used a color-picker to provide grapheme-color associations. After this session, some of the participants’ synaesthetic experiences were recreated using a VR-by-proxy approach. Results indicated that VR is capable of capturing elements of synaesthetic perception that other methods have been unable to, such as texture, small degrees of movement, and 3D structure. Experiment 2 expanded upon these findings by moving beyond the VR-by-proxy approach and asking three participants to recreate their own audiovisual synaesthetic associations in the VR environment. Inductive Thematic Analysis was used to analyze the results of this experiment. The potential of expanding this technique to other forms of perceptual diversity is discussed.
Continuous nutrient supply culture strategy controls multivesicular endosomes pathway and anti-photo-aging miRNA cargo loading of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Chen Lihao , Xie Weihan , Wu Keke , Meng Yuan , He Yijun , Cai Jiawei , Jiang Yuan , Zhao Qi , Yang Yixi , Zhang Minru , Lu Manping , Lin Shaozhang , Liang Lin , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: September 2023

Extracellular vesicle (EV) therapy recently had shown significant efficacy in various diseases. Serum starvation culture (SC) is one of the most widely used methods for collecting EVs. However, SC may cause inadvertent effects and eventually dampen the therapeutic potential of EVs. Therefore, we developed a novel method for EV collection, continuous nutrient supply culture (CC), which can provide an optimal condition for mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) by continuously supplying essential nutrients to MSCs. By comparing with SC strategy, we revealed that CC could maintain CC-MSCs in a normal autophagy and apoptotic state, which reduced the shunting of EV precursors in cells and useless information material carried by EVs. In CC-MSCs, the expression levels of endosomal sorting complexes required for transport (ESCRT) and targeting GTPase27 (Rab27) were upregulated compared to those in SC-MSCs. Besides, we analyzed the membrane transport efficiency of EV formation, which demonstrated the CC strategy could promote the formation of EV precursors and the release of EVs. In addition, miRNA analysis revealed that CC-EVs were enriched with anti-chronic inflammatory factors, which could inhibit the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway, mitigate chronic inflammation, and effectively repair skin photo-aging damage.
Measuring the strength of belief in the supernatural entities in the Babylonian Talmud. A method based on the Elyonim veTachtonim project
Authors: Kosior Wojciech
Published: September 2023

This paper offers a technique for assessing the strength of belief in the traditions involving supernatural entities (angels, demons, ghosts, and monsters) present in the Babylonian Talmud. The method is based on the appreciation of the formal features of the text (genre, language, attribution, etc.) in the theoretical and technical framework of the Elyonim veTachtonim project and allows to grade relatively the perceived reality of particular accounts. The analysis of the quantitative data shows that these are the traditions about the demons, which are usually provided in the form of pragmatic recommendations transmitted in Aramaic and featuring the Babylonian sages. This allows us to infer that the demons appeared to the final redactors (i.e., the Stammaim) as the most real among the supernatural entities: they were presented as posing real danger and as demanding adequate means of action.
Can digital finance mitigate trust issues for chronically ill patients because of relative deprivation of income?
Authors: Lu Jiao , Li Yanping , Cao Lijing , Zhou Zhongliang
Published: September 2023

Objective

The relative deprivation of income among chronically ill patients may create a perception of inequity in their access to quality healthcare, which may lead to a decline in patients’ trust and further increases the burden of chronic diseases. Digital finance could be the antidote. To promote equity in healthcare delivery, this study explores the mitigating effect of digital finance by elucidating the relationship between relative deprivation of income and chronically ill patients’ trust.

Methods

Using data from the China Family Panel Study, a Poisson regression model was applied to assess the effect of relative deprivation of income on chronically ill patients’ trust. A marginal effect analysis was used to verify the effect and a two-stage least squares method was used to test robustness.

Results

Chronically ill patients’ trust was at a medium level (5.98 ± 2.05). Relative deprivation of income significantly reduced patients’ trust (β=−0.056, p < 0.1). The digital finance had a positive effect on patients’ trust (β=0.035, p < 0.01) and alleviated the negative effect of relative deprivation of income on patients’ trust (β=0.105, p < 0.01). The instrumental variable estimation results confirmed the robustness of the benchmark regression results.

Conclusions

The inequity resulting from relative deprivation of income undermines patients’ trust. Digital finance has a long-term effect on alleviating perception of inequity among chronically ill patients. The government should promote the integration of digital finance and smart healthcare to enhance patients’ trust and contribute to equality in healthcare delivery. Limitations include self-reported data and an insufficient correlation between selected indicators and healthcare services.
Using video consultations for clinical assessment and decision of treatment readiness before chemotherapy: A mixed-methods study among patients with gastrointestinal cancer and oncology nurses
Authors: Dieperink Karin Brochstedt , Vestergaard Lene Vedel , Møller Pia Krause , Tolstrup Lærke Kjær
Published: September 2023

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of clinical assessment and decision of treatment readiness before chemotherapy using video consultations, as perceived by gastrointestinal cancer patients and oncology nurses. In addition, to estimate reductions in travel time for patients and environmental carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Methods

In a mixed-method study, patients with gastrointestinal cancer who participated in at least one video consultation during April–October 2019 completed a questionnaire on socioeconomic status, time and kilometers saved on travel. Kilometers saved were converted into reduced CO2 emissions. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Patients ( n = 15) participated in semi-structured individual interviews, and five oncology nurses participated in a focus group interview.

Results

A total of 84/119 patients (71%) consented to video consultation and responded to the questionnaire. 69% were male, with a mean age of 66 years. For 46% of patients, a video consultation saved more than an hour of travel time. Avoiding a median travel distance of 120 km per patient (range, 2–450 km) reduced CO2 emissions by 7018 lb. Video consultations had other positive effects on patients, including avoiding waiting rooms, having more energy, and experiencing more focused interactions with nurses. Technical issues occurred rarely. Nurses found technical issues more troublesome, sometimes precluding complete assessments. They reported a need to rethink nursing practice to effectively provide care during video consultations.

Conclusions

Video consultations reduced CO2 emissions. In addition, they were beneficial for patients with gastrointestinal cancer. However, providing an optimal clinical assessment and decision of treatment readiness before chemotherapy requires testing patient equipment, technical skills and new oncology nursing competencies.
En Bloc Resection of a Giant Ganglioneuroma of the Chest Through Clamshell Thoracotomy
Authors: Chauhan Dhaval , Bonasso Patrick , Udassi Jai P. , Mascio Christopher E.
Published: September 2023

Ganglioneuroma is a benign tumor requiring subtotal resection as a primary mode of treatment. There are several surgical approaches. A giant ganglioneuroma of the chest cavity may be approached via a clamshell thoracotomy. This manuscript presents a case of giant ganglioneuroma resected en bloc via clamshell thoracotomy in a seven-year-old child.
Prevalence of Low Birth Weight and its Association With Anemia in White Nile State, Sudan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Elmugabil Abdelmageed , Al-Nafeesah Abdullah , AlEed Ashwaq , AlHabardi Nadiah , Adam Ishag
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Low birth weight (LBW) remains a global health concern, especially in sub-Saharan African countries with fewer resources, such as Sudan. Despite ongoing preventive measures, LBW is still one of the main health problems and it is a leading risk factor for several adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes.

Objective

To assess the prevalence of and factors associated (mainly maternal anemia) with LBW at Rabak Maternity Hospital, White Nile, Central Sudan.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving live singleton newborns and their mothers who presented to Rabak Maternity Hospital from September to December 2021. Questionnaires were completed via face-to-face interviews to gather maternal information (maternal age, parity, history of miscarriage, educational status, and level of antenatal care [ANC]). Maternal hemoglobin levels were measured using an automated hematology analyzer. The neonate's birth weight and sex were recorded.

Results

Two hundred and fifty-three newborns were enrolled in this study, 40 (15.8%) of whom were LBW neonates. The median (interquartile range) maternal age and parity were 25 (21.0–30.0) years and 2 (1–4), respectively. While gestational age, maternal hemoglobin, and maternal anemia were associated with LBW, maternal age, parity, a history of miscarriage, education level, and level of ANC were not associated with LBW in the univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that gestational age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.66–0.96) and maternal hemoglobin (AOR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.52–0.86) were inversely associated with LBW. Maternal anemia was associated with LBW (AOR = 4.70, 95% CI = 2.06–10.94).

Conclusion

LBW is a major health concern in White Nile, Sudan. Maternal age and maternal anemia are associated with LBW. Preventive measures for managing maternal anemia may help reduce the incidence of LBW.
A conceptual framework for characterising lifecourse determinants of multiple long-term condition multimorbidity
Authors: Stannard Sebastian , Berrington Ann , Paranjothy Shantini , Owen Rhiannon , Fraser Simon , Hoyle Rebecca , Boniface Michael , Wilkinson Becky , Akbari Ashley , Batchelor Sophia , Jones William , Ashworth Mark , Welch Jack , Mair Frances S , Alwan Nisreen A
Published: September 2023

Objective

Social, biological and environmental factors in early-life, defined as the period from preconception until age 18, play a role in shaping the risk of multiple long-term condition multimorbidity. However, there is a need to conceptualise these early-life factors, how they relate to each other, and provide conceptual framing for future research on aetiology and modelling prevention scenarios of multimorbidity. We develop a conceptual framework to characterise the population-level domains of early-life determinants of future multimorbidity.

Method

This work was conducted as part of the Multidisciplinary Ecosystem to study Lifecourse Determinants and Prevention of Early-onset Burdensome Multimorbidity (MELD-B) study. The conceptualisation of multimorbidity lifecourse determinant domains was shaped by a review of existing research evidence and policy, and co-produced with public involvement via two workshops.

Results

Early-life risk factors incorporate personal, social, economic, behavioural and environmental factors, and the key domains discussed in research evidence, policy, and with public contributors included adverse childhood experiences, socioeconomics, the social and physical environment, and education. Policy recommendations more often focused on individual-level factors as opposed to the wider determinants of health discussed within the research evidence. Some domains highlighted through our co-production process with public contributors, such as religion and spirituality, health screening and check-ups, and diet, were not adequately considered within the research evidence or policy.

Conclusions

This co-produced conceptualisation can inform research directions using primary and secondary data to investigate the early-life characteristics of population groups at risk of future multimorbidity, as well as policy directions to target public health prevention scenarios of early-onset multimorbidity.
Personality and vocational interest typologies associated with better coping and resilience in paramedicine: A review of two models
Authors: Mason Rod , Roodenburg John , Williams Brett
Published: September 2023

Paramedics’ continued exposure to work-related stressors can negatively impact emotional wellbeing. Having or developing resilience contributes to better coping. Understanding differences in individual predispositions as they relate to resilience and coping can provide a needed understanding of why some people flourish while others are more at risk, with important implications for identifying and facilitating bespoke support for paramedics more at risk. The purpose of this article then is firstly to review two of the main well-validated models of innate dispositions in differential psychology, widely used in organisational and industrial psychology: personality and vocational interests. These are The Big-Five/Five-Factor Model and Holland's RIASEC. Then, we report which dispositions are an advantage for paramedic coping and resilience. Concerning personality, our findings from the literature suggest that for paramedics, lower levels of Neuroticism and Openness, and higher levels of Extraversion, Agreeableness and Conscientiousness are associated with higher resilience and better coping. RIASEC associations suggest person-environment congruence is also related to resilience and coping, this being for those with the profession's predominant Holland code of RSI (Realist, Social and Investigative inclinations). Paramedics approximating these preferences are, it appears, innately relatively less at risk of the negative effects associated with occupational stressors in paramedicine. Stressors typically include post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression and other psychological reactions that all can result in suicide. Importantly, such resilience does not mean an individual is instinctively protected from some form of emotional suffering. The implications of verifying the significance of predispositions implies the need to harness organisational psychology as part of training courses, and the need for involvement of psychologists in the field, both preventatively and in clinical care.
Using an integrated dynamic economic model to support infrastructure investment decision-making
Authors: Brown Charlotte , McDonald Nicola , McDonald Garry , Daly Michele , Seville Erica
Published: September 2023

Evaluating investment options to enhance earthquake resilience of infrastructure requires a deep understanding of the economic impacts of loss of infrastructure services. This article presents an economic impact assessment of a hypothetical Wellington Fault earthquake event to support the case for a suite of infrastructure resilience enhancements in Wellington, New Zealand. The project builds a comprehensive picture of the event, pre-investment, including electricity disruptions of up to 6 months, temporary population movement of 25%, and business relocation of up to 11% in some industries. MERIT, a dynamic economic analysis tool specifically designed to evaluate “shock” events, estimates the proposed investment options (valued at NZD2016 2.2–2.6 billion) result in reduced event losses of NZD2016 6 billion over 5 years. The project illustrates the need to continue improving modeling capability to support decision processes and to concurrently evolve decision-making processes to match our increasingly sophisticated, dynamic, and multi-dimensional economic evaluation tools.
Tests on reinforced concrete U-shaped walls subjected to torsion and flexure
Authors: Hoult Ryan , Doneux Catherine , Pacheco de Almeida João
Published: September 2023

This data paper describes an experimental campaign on two reinforced concrete (RC) U-shaped walls, including details of the test units, materials, test setup, loading protocol, instrumentation, primary observations and response of each unit during testing, organization of the test data in the public open source research data repository (DOI: 10.14428/DVN/FDJ4EU), and examples of derived data. The two wall units represent the lower stories of a half-scale 6-story prototype core wall that was designed for medium-to-high ductility. The tests conducted aimed at assessing the flexural and torsional response and capacity of RC U-shaped walls. The first wall unit, UW1, was tested for axial-flexure and subjected to quasi-static reverse-cyclic bending about its weak axis until failure. Furthermore, UW1 was subjected to an additional overturning moment to increase the shear span. The second wall unit, UW2, was tested for axial-torsion and subjected to a quasi-static reverse-cyclic rotation about its vertical axis until failure. Both wall units were subjected to a constant axial load ratio of 5%. A range of conventional instrumentation was used to capture salient global and local measurements of the wall, including three-dimensional (3D) digital image correlation on multiple faces. High-definition fiber-optic sensors were also utilized to capture the entire strain profile of several longitudinal reinforcing bars in each wall unit.
Proteomics profiling reveals mitochondrial damage in the thalamus in a mouse model of chronic migraine
Authors: Xie Wei , Li Ruibing , Tang Wenjing , Ma Zhenjie , Miao Shuai , Li Chenhao , Yang Chunxiao , Li Bozhi , Wang Tao , Gong Zihua , Zhou Yue , Yu Shengyuan
Published: September 2023

Background

Migraine, a complex brain disorder, is regarded as a possible clinical manifestation of brain energy dysfunction. The trigeminovascular system is considered the basis for the pathogenesis of migraine, hence we depicted the proteomics profiling of key regions in this system, then focusing on protein alterations related to mitochondrial function. The aim of this study is to illustrate the role of mitochondria in migraine.

Methods

A mouse model of chronic migraine (CM) was established by repeated nitroglycerin (NTG) stimulation and evaluated by von-Frey filaments, a hot plate and a light-dark box. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in some subcortical brain regions of the trigeminovascular system were screened through liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS) to analyse the specificity of key signaling pathways in different brain regions. And then mitochondrial function, structure and dynamics were determined by qPCR, ELISA, and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Finally, the effect of mitochondrial intervention-Urolithin A (UA) on CM was investigated.

Results

Repeated NTG injection triggered photophobia, periorbital and hind paw allodynia in mice. The proteomics profiling of CM model showed that 529, 109, 163, 152 and 419 DEPs were identified in the thalamus, hypothalamus, periaqueductal grey (PAG), trigeminal ganglion (TG) and trigeminocervical complex (TCC), respectively. The most significant changes in the brain region-specific pathways pointed to thalamic mitochondrial impairment. NTG induced mitochondrial structural disruption, dysfunction and homeostatic dysregulation, which could be partially attenuated by UA intervention.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the involvement of mitochondrial damage in the thalamus in central sensitization of CM, which provides evidence of possible metabolic mechanisms in migraine pathophysiology.
I am better than I look: genome based safety assessment of the probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IS-10506
Authors: Umanets Alexander , Surono Ingrid S. , Venema Koen
Published: September 2023

Background

Safety of probiotic strains that are used in human and animal trials is a prerequisite. Genome based safety assessment of probiotics has gained popularity due its cost efficiency and speed, and even became a part of national regulation on foods containing probiotics in Indonesia. However, reliability of the safety assessment based only on a full genome sequence is not clear. Here, for the first time, we sequenced, assembled, and analysed the genome of the probiotic strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IS-10506, that was isolated from dadih, a traditional fermented buffalo milk. The strain has already been used as a probiotic for more than a decade, and in several clinical trials proven to be completely safe.

Methods

The genome of the probiotic strain L. plantarum IS-10506 was sequenced using Nanopore sequencing technology, assembled, annotated and screened for potential harmful (PH) and beneficial genomic features. The presence of the PH features was assessed from general annotation, as well as with the use of specialised tools. In addition, PH regions in the genome were compared to all other probiotic and non-probiotic L. plantarum strains available in the NCBI RefSeq database.

Results

For the first time, a high-quality complete genome of L. plantarum IS-10506 was obtained, and an extensive search for PH and a beneficial signature was performed. We discovered a number of PH features within the genome of L. plantarum IS-10506 based on the general annotation, including various antibiotic resistant genes (AMR); however, with a few exceptions, bioinformatics tools specifically developed for AMR detection did not confirm their presence. We further demonstrated the presence of the detected PH genes across multiple L. plantarum strains, including probiotics, and overall high genetic similarities between strains.

Conclusion

The genome of L. plantarum IS-10506 is predicted to have several PH features. However, the strain has been utilized as a probiotic for over a decade in several clinical trials without any adverse effects, even in immunocompromised children with HIV infection and undernourished children. This implies the presence of PH feature signatures within the probiotic genome does not necessarily indicate their manifestation during administration. Importantly, specialized tools for the search of PH features were found more robust and should be preferred over manual searches in a general annotation.
Integrated analysis of the ubiquitination mechanism reveals the specific signatures of tissue and cancer
Authors: Long Deyu , Zhang Ruiqi , Du Changjian , Tong Jiapei , Ni Yu , Zhou Yaqi , Zuo Yongchun , Liao Mingzhi
Published: September 2023

Background

Ubiquitination controls almost all cellular processes. The dysregulation of ubiquitination signals is closely associated with the initiation and progression of multiple diseases. However, there is little comprehensive research on the interaction and potential function of ubiquitination regulators (UBRs) in spermatogenesis and cancer.

Methods

We systematically characterized the mRNA and protein expression of UBRs across tissues and further evaluated their roles in testicular development and spermatogenesis. Subsequently, we explored the genetic alterations, expression perturbations, cancer hallmark-related pathways, and clinical relevance of UBRs in pan-cancer.

Results

This work reveals heterogeneity in the expression patterns of UBRs across tissues, and the expression pattern in testis is the most distinct. UBRs are dynamically expressed during testis development, which are critical for normal spermatogenesis. Furthermore, UBRs have widespread genetic alterations and expression perturbations in pan-cancer. The expression of 79 UBRs was identified to be closely correlated with the activity of 32 cancer hallmark-related pathways, and ten hub genes were screened for further clinical relevance analysis by a network-based method. More than 90% of UBRs can affect the survival of cancer patients, and hub genes have an excellent prognostic classification for specific cancer types.

Conclusions

Our study provides a comprehensive analysis of UBRs in spermatogenesis and pan-cancer, which can build a foundation for understanding male infertility and developing cancer drugs in the aspect of ubiquitination.
Suppression of pyrrolidine ring biosynthesis and its effects on gene expression and subsequent accumulation of anatabine in leaves of tobacco (N. tabacum L.)
Authors: Kaminski Kacper Piotr , Bovet Lucien , Hilfiker Aurore , Laparra Helene , Schwaar Joanne , Sierro Nicolas , Lang Gerhard , De Palo Damien , Guy Philippe Alexandre , Laszlo Csaba , Goepfert Simon , Ivanov Nikolai V.
Published: September 2023

Background

Anatabine, although being one of four major tobacco alkaloids, is never accumulated in high quantity in any of the naturally occurring species from the Nicotiana genus. Previous studies therefore focused on transgenic approaches to synthetize anatabine, most notably by generating transgenic lines with suppressed putrescine methyltransferase (PMT) activity. This led to promising results, but the global gene expression of plants with such distinct metabolism has not been analyzed. In the current study, we describe how these plants respond to topping and the downstream effects on alkaloid biosynthesis.

Results

The surge in anatabine accumulation in PMT transgenic lines after topping treatment and its effects on gene expression changes were analyzed. The results revealed increases in expression of isoflavone reductase-like (A622) and berberine bridge-like enzymes (BBLs) oxidoreductase genes, previously shown to be crucial for the final steps of nicotine biosynthesis. We also observed significantly higher methylputrescine oxidase (MPO) expression in all plants subjected to topping treatment. In order to investigate if MPO suppression would have the same effects as that of PMT, we generated transgenic plants. These plants with suppressed MPO expression showed an almost complete drop in leaf nicotine content, whereas leaf anatabine was observed to increase by a factor of ~ 1.6X.

Conclusion

Our results are the first concrete evidence that suppression of MPO leads to decreased nicotine in favor of anatabine in tobacco roots and that this anatabine is successfully transported to tobacco leaves. Alkaloid transport in plants remains to be investigated to higher detail due to high variation of its efficiency among Nicotiana species and varieties of tobacco. Our research adds important step to better understand pyrrolidine ring biosynthesis and its effects on gene expression and subsequent accumulation of anatabine.
Seasonal and age-related changes in sperm quality of farmed arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus)
Authors: Kurta Khrystyna , Jeuthe Henrik , Naboulsi Rakan , de Koning Dirk-Jan , Palaiokostas Christos
Published: September 2023

Background

Substantial variation in male fertility is regularly observed in farmed Arctic charr. However, detailed investigations of its fluctuation during a reproductive season and across years are lacking. Furthermore, information about the effect of underlying genetic factors influencing sperm quality is scarce. The current study focused on seasonal and age-related factors that may affect sperm quality characteristics in males reared in natural and delayed photoperiods. Animals were sampled three times for two consecutive years, and sperm quality parameters were recorded using a computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system. Thereafter, high-throughput sequencing technologies were applied, aiming to identify genomic regions related to the variation of sperm quality throughout the reproductive season.

Results

An across-season variation in the recorded sperm quality parameters was evident. Overall, 29% and 42% of males from the natural and delayed spawning groups had a highly variable total progressive motility. Males at four years of age showed significantly higher sperm motility and velocities during the early October and November recordings compared to the following year when the same animals were five years of age. On the other hand, the opposite was observed regarding sperm concentration during the last sampling. A genome-wide FST scan detected SNP differentiation among males with high and low variability in total progressive motility (PM) on eight chromosomes (FST > 0.17), Genome wide windows with the highest FST contained SNPs in proximity (within 250 kb up- and downstream distance) to 16 genes with sperm quality biological functions in mammalian species.

Conclusion

Our findings provide a detailed view of seasonal, age-related, and genetic effects on sperm quality and can be used to guide decisions on broodstock selection and hatchery management.
Analysis of differentially expressed genes discovers Latroeggtoxin VI-induced changes and SYNJ1 as a main target in PC12 cells
Authors: Yu Dianmei , Wang Haiyan , Lei Zhixiang , Zhai Yiwen , Chen Si , Sun Minglu , Yin Panfeng , Wang Xianchun
Published: September 2023

Background

Previous preliminary work found that Latroeggtoxin-VI (LETX-VI), a proteinaceous neurotoxin from the eggs of spider Latrodectus tredecimguttatus, could promote the synthesis and release of dopamine in PC12 cells. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully clear. Here, the effects of LETX-VI on the gene expression profile and dopamine in PC12 cells were analyzed with the differential transcriptome-based strategies.

Results

After treatment of PC12 cells with LETX-VI for 24 h, a total of 356 differentially expressed transcripts were identified. Of them 165 were up-regulated and 191 down-regulated. Relevant GO analysis indicated that LETX-VI modulated the expression of certain genes and thereby affected multiple biological processes in PC12 cells, including protein metabolism, nucleic acid metabolism, substance transport, signaling, neurotransmitter metabolism and release. When western blot analysis was employed to confirm the abundance levels of synaptojanin 1 and synuclein alpha interacting protein, the representatives of highly up- and down-regulated transcript-encoded proteins that are closely related with dopamine respectively, it was found that the level of synaptojanin 1 in the PC12 cells treated with LETX-VI was increased, whereas that of synuclein alpha interacting protein was not obviously altered, suggesting that synaptojanin 1 may be much more involved in the effects of LETX-VI on dopamine. After synaptojanin 1 level was knocked down using siRNA, the levels of both total and released dopamine were significantly decreased, indicating that synaptojanin 1 is a protein positively modulating the synthesis and secretion of dopamine. When the PC12 cells with knocked down synaptojanin 1 were treated by LETX-VI, the adverse effects of synaptojanin 1 knockdown on dopamine were attenuated, confirming that LETX-VI promotes the synthesis and secretion of dopamine at least partially by enhancing the expression of the gene SYNJ1 encoding synaptojanin 1.

Conclusions

This work demonstrates that LETX-VI exerts multiple regulatory effects on the cellular processes in PC12 cells by altering the gene expression profile. LETX-VI modulates the expression of the genes closely related to the synthesis, transport and release of neurotransmitters especially dopamine in PC12 cells, with the gene SYNJ1 encoding synaptojanin 1 as a main target.
Integration of taxa abundance and occurrence frequency to identify key gut bacteria correlated to clinics in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Cai Xunchao , Zhou Nan , Zou Qian , Peng Yao , Xu Long , Feng Lijuan , Liu Xiaowei
Published: September 2023

Bacteria abundance alternation in the feces or mucosa of Crohn’s disease (CD) patients has long been applied to identify potential biomarkers for this disease, while the taxa occurrence frequency and their correlations with clinical traits were understudied. A total of 97 samples from the feces and gut mucosa were collected from CD patients and healthy controls (HCs), 16S rRNA-based analyses were performed to determine the changes in taxa abundance and occurrence frequency along CD and to correlate them with clinical traits. The results showed that bacteria communities were divergent between feces and mucosa, while the taxa abundance and occurrence frequency in both partitions showed similar exponential correlations. The decrease of specific fecal bacteria was much more effective in classifying the CD and HCs than that of the mucosal bacteria. Among them, Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and Ruminococcus were predicted as biomarkers by using random forest algorithm, which were persistently presented (> 71.40% in frequency) in the feces of the HCs with high abundance, whereas transiently presented in the feces (< 5.5% in frequency) and mucosa (< 18.18% in frequency) of CD patients with low abundance. Co-occurrence network analysis then identified them as hub taxa that drive the alternations of other bacteria and were positively correlated to the circuiting monocytes. The loss of specific bacteria in the healthy gut may cause great disturbance of gut microbiota, causing gut bacteria dysbiosis and correlated to immune disorders along CD, which might not only be developed as effective noninvasive biomarkers but also as therapy targets.
“Hospital survival of patients with pulmonary embolism in a country with limited resources case of the city of Kinshasa”
Authors: Marc Tshilanda Balekelayi , Michel Tshiasuma Pipo , Florence Mpembe , Tousaint Mujijo , Serge Kazadi , Chadrack Bosenedje , Roly Kokusa , Gédéon Dizolele , Brady Makanzu Madioko , Erick Kamangu Ntambue
Published: September 2023

Background

Pulmonary embolism is a frequent cause of intra-hospital mortality. The survival of patients depends not only on the speed of diagnosis but also on the treatment initiated.

Objective

to evaluate the intra-hospital survival of patients with pulmonary embolism in the city of Kinshasa.

Methodology

analytical cross-sectional study based on non-probability convenience sampling carried out in the city of Kinshasa; three hospitals selected for convenience on the basis of their technical platforms. The patients were judged to have had a pulmonary embolism after a chest CT angiography proved it. The data recorded on the Kobocollect site were exported in Excel format and analyzed with SPSS software version 23. The comparison of the means was made using the Student test and that frequencies with the Yates Chi-square test. The association was attributed by the calculation of the odds ratio and the survival presented according to the Cox regression.

Results

Eighty-nine cases or 63 women and 26 men were analyzed, the mean age was 64.4 ± 15.6 years. Individuals over 65 died more (ß=0.043 and p-Value of 0.01) the female sex multiplied by 1.38 the risk of death (DNS, p-Value = 0.478). Approximately 80% of patients were classified as PESI stage II or III. Starting Rivaroxaban from the outset does not show any difference with enoxaparin in terms of intra-hospital survival.

Conclusion

Pulmonary embolism is a real problem in our environment, the age of more than 65 years and the female sex are factors of poor prognosis and predicted survival.
The efficacy of non-anesthesiologist-administered propofol sedation with a target-controlled infusion system during double-balloon endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Miyamoto Kazuya , Matsumoto Kazuyuki , Obata Taisuke , Sato Ryosuke , Matsumi Akihiro , Morimoto Kosaku , Ogawa Taiji , Terasawa Hiroyuki , Fujii Yuki , Yamazaki Tatsuhiro , Uchida Daisuke , Horiguchi Shigeru , Tsutsumi Koichiro , Kato Hironari , Otsuka Motoyuki
Published: September 2023

Background

The sedation method used during double-balloon endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (DB-ERCP) differs among countries and/or facilities, and there is no established method. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of non-anesthesiologist-administered propofol (NAAP) sedation using a target-controlled infusion (TCI) system during DB-ERCP.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted between May 2017 and December 2020 at an academic center. One hundred and fifty-six consecutive patients who underwent DB-ERCP were sedated by gastroenterologists using diazepam (n = 77) or propofol with a TCI system (n = 79), depending on the period. The primary endpoint was a comparison of poor sedation rates between the two groups. Poor sedation was defined as a condition requiring the use of other sedative agents or discontinuation of the procedure. Secondary endpoints were sedation-related adverse events and risk factors for poor sedation.

Results

Poor sedation occurred significantly more often in the diazepam sedation group (diazepam sedation, n = 12 [16%] vs. propofol sedation, n = 1 [1%]; P = 0.001). Vigorous body movements (3 or 4) (diazepam sedation, n = 40 [52%] vs. propofol sedation, n = 28 [35%]; P = 0.038) and hypoxemia (< 85%) (diazepam sedation, n = 7 [9%] vs. propofol sedation, n = 1 [1%]; P = 0.027) occurred significantly more often in the diazepam sedation group. In the multivariate analysis, age < 70 years old (OR, 10.26; 95% CI, 1.57–66.98; P = 0.015), BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (OR, 11.96; 95% CI, 1.67–85.69; P = 0.014), and propofol sedation (OR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.01–0.58; P = 0.015) were associated factors for poor sedation.

Conclusions

NAAP sedation with the TCI system during DB-ERCP was safer and more effective than diazepam sedation.
Oncologic relevance of genetic alterations in sporadic synchronous and solitary colorectal cancer: a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Son Il Tae , Kim Minsung , Oh Bo Young , Kim Min Jeong , Yoon Sang Nam , Park Jun Ho , Kim Byung Chun , Kim Jong Wan
Published: September 2023

Background

Oncologic impact of genetic alteration across synchronous colorectal cancer (CRC) still remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the oncologic relevance according to genetic alteration between synchronous and solitary CRC with performing systematic review.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective analysis was performed for CRC patients with curative resection. Genetic profiling was consisted of microsatellite instability (MSI) testing, RAS (K-ras, and N-ras), and BRAF (v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1) V600E mutation. Multivariate analyses were conducted using logistic regression for synchronicity, and Cox proportional hazard model with stage-adjusting for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results

It was identified synchronous (n = 36) and solitary (n = 579) CRC with similar base line characteristics. RAS mutation was associated to synchronous CRC with no relations of MSI and BRAF. During median follow up of 77.8 month, Kaplan–meier curves showed significant differences according to MSI-high for OS, and in RAS, and BRAF mutation for DFS, respectively. In multivariable analyses, RAS and BRAF mutation were independent factors (RAS, HR = 1.808, 95% CI = 1.18–2.77, p = 0.007; BRAF, HR = 2.417, 95% CI = 1.32–4.41, p = 0.004). Old age was independent factor for OS (HR = 3.626, 95% CI = 1.09–12.00, p = 0.035).

Conclusion

This study showed that oncologic outcomes might differ according to mutation burden characterized by RAS, BRAF, and MSI between synchronous CRC and solitary CRC. In addition, our systematic review highlighted a lack of data and much heterogeneity in genetic characteristics and survival outcomes of synchronous CRC relative to that of solitary CRC.
Relapse rate and predictors of relapse after cessation of glucocorticoid maintenance therapy in type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis: a multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Kiyoshita Yusuke , Ishii Yasutaka , Serikawa Masahiro , Hanada Keiji , Sasaki Tamito , Fujimoto Yoshifumi , Yamaguchi Atsushi , Hirao Ken , Noma Bunjiro , Minami Tomoyuki , Okazaki Akihito , Yukutake Masanobu , Mouri Teruo , Tsuboi Tomofumi , Tatsukawa Yumiko , Nakamura Shinya , Hirano Tetsuro , Ikemoto Juri , Saeki Sho , Tamura Yosuke , Miyamoto Sayaka , Furukawa Masaru , Nakmura Kazuki , Yamashita Yumiko , Iijima Noriaki , Oka Shiro
Published: September 2023

Background

Type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis responds well to glucocorticoid therapy with a high remission rate. Moreover, glucocorticoid maintenance therapy can help prevent relapse. However, the relapse rate following cessation of long-term glucocorticoid therapy is unknown. The aim of this study was to clarify the relapse rate and predictors of relapse following long-term glucocorticoid therapy cessation.

Methods

We analyzed 94 patients who achieved remission after undergoing glucocorticoid therapy, discontinued treatment after at least 6 months of maintenance therapy, and were subsequently followed up for at least 6 months. The patients were divided into three groups based on treatment duration (< 18, 18–36, and ≥ 36 months), and their relapse rates were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses of clinical factors were conducted to identify relapse predictors.

Results

After discontinuing glucocorticoid therapy, relapse was observed in 43 (45.7%) patients, with cumulative relapse rates of 28.2% at 1 year, 42.1% at 3 years, 47.0% at 5 years, and a plateau of 77.6% at 9 years. Of the 43 patients who relapsed, 25 (58.1%) relapsed within 1 year after after cessation of glucocorticoid therapy. Relapse and cumulative relapse rates did not differ significantly according to treatment duration. In the multivariate analysis, an elevated serum IgG4 level at the time of glucocorticoid cessation was found to be an independent predictor of relapse (hazard ratio, 4.511; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

A high relapse rate occurred after cessation of glucocorticoid maintenance therapy, regardless of the duration of maintenance therapy, especially within the first year after cessation. However, the normalization of long-term serum IgG4 levels may be a factor in considering cessation.
Trends and associated factors of HIV, HCV and syphilis infection among different drug users in the China–Vietnam border area: an 11-year cross-sectional study (2010–2020)
Authors: Luo Tong , Lin Zhaosen , Wu Zhenxian , Cen Ping , Nong Aidan , Huang Rongye , Che Jianhua , Liang Fengfeng , Yang Yuan , Liu Jie , Huang Li , Cai Jie , Ou Yanyun , Ye Li , Bao Lijuan , Liang Bingyu , Liang Hao
Published: September 2023

Background

Data on recent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and syphilis prevalence among drug users in the Southwest China are sparse despite the high burden of drug use. This study aims at assessing the prevalence trends and related factors of HIV, HCV and syphilis infection among different drug users in the China–Vietnam border area.

Methods

A continuous cross-sectional survey was conducted among drug users from 2010 to 2020 in the China–Vietnam border area. Chi-square trend tests were used to assess the trend of HIV, HCV and syphilis prevalence and the proportion for drug type used by drug users. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify associated factors of HIV, HCV and syphilis infection in different drug users.

Results

In this study, a total of 28,951 drug users were included, of which 27,893 (96.45%) male, 15,660 (54.09%) aged 13–34 years, 24,543 (84.77%) heroin-only users, 2062 (7.12%) synthetic drug-only (SD-only) users and 2346 (8.10%) poly-drug users. From 2010 to 2020, the proportion of heroin-only users decreased from 87.79% to 75.46%, whereas SD-only users and poly-drug users increased from 5.16% to 16.03%, and from 7.05% to 8.52%, respectively. The prevalence of HIV, HCV, and syphilis during the study period declined from 12.76%, 60.37% and 5.72% to 4.35%, 53.29% and 4.53%, respectively, among heroin-only users and declined from 18.30%, 66.67% and 15.69% to 6.95%, 27.81% and 5.35%, respectively, among poly-drug users; however, the prevalence of HIV and HCV among SD-only users increased from 0.89% and 8.93% to 2.84% and 18.75%, respectively. Having ever injected drugs and needle sharing were common associated factors for both HIV and HCV infection among poly-drug users and heroin-only users. Aged ≥ 35 years old was an associated factor for HIV, HCV and syphilis infection among the SD-only users. Female drug users were at high risk of contracting syphilis among three different drug users.

Conclusions

The prevalence of HIV, HCV and syphilis among heroin-only users and poly-drug users decreased during the study period. However, the prevalence of HIV and HCV among SD-only users increased. Comprehensive intervention strategies, particularly focusing on the SD-only users are needed in order to bring down the disease burden in this population in the China–Vietnam border areas.
Impact of menopause on relapse rate and disability level in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS): a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shahraki Zahra , Rastkar Mohsen , Rastkar Elnaz , Mohammadifar Mehdi , Mohamadi Aida , Ghajarzadeh Mahsa
Published: September 2023

Background

Menopause is a physiologic phase in women’s lives. Findings regarding multiple sclerosis (MS) course through menopause are diverse. So, we designed this systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the impact of menopause on relapse rate, and disability status in women with MS.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and google scholar were systematically searched by two independent researchers on January 1st, 2023. They also evaluated conference abstracts, and references of the included studies. In addition, data regarding the total number of participants, name of the first author of the publication, publication year, country of origin, disease duration, disease type, annual relapse rate, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) before and after menopause were recorded.

Results

A literature search revealed 1024 records. Twenty-one full texts were evaluated, and finally, four studies were included for meta-analysis. Mean ARR before menopause ranged between 0.21 and 0.37, and after menopause ranged between 0.13 and 0.08. The SMD of mean ARR ranged between − 1.04, and − 0.29, while the pooled SMD was estimated as -0.52(95% CI: -0.88, -0.15) (I2 = 73.6%, P = 0.02). The mean EDSS before menopause ranged between 1.5 and 2, and after menopause ranged between 2 and 3.1. The SMD of EDSS ranged between 0.46, and 0.71. The pooled SMD of EDSS change (after menopause-before menopause) estimated as 0.56(95% CI: 0.38, 0.73)(I2 = 0, P = 0.4).

Conclusion

The result of this systematic review and meta-analysis show that menopause can be associated with relapse rate reduction, unlike increase in disease-related disability in women with MS.