bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TOC interpretation of lithofacies-based categorical regression model: A case study of the Yanchang formation shale in the Ordos basin, NW China
Authors: Yin Jintao , Gao Chao , Cheng Ming , Liang Quansheng , Xue Pei , Hao Shiyan , Zhao Qianping
Published: January 2023

In this paper, taking the shale of Chang 7-Chang 9 oil formation in Yanchang Formation in the southeastern Ordos Basin as an example, through the study of shale heterogeneity characteristics, starting from the preprocessing of supervision data set, a logging interpretation method of total organic carbon content (TOC) on the lithofacies-based Categorical regression model (LBCRM) is proposed. It is show that: 1) Based on core observation, and Differences of sedimentation and structure, five lithofacies developed in the Yanchang Formation: shale shale facies, siltstone/ultrafine sandstone facies, tuff facies, argillaceous shale facies with silty lamina and argillaceous shale facies with tuff lamina. 2) The strong heterogeneity of shale makes it difficult to accurately explain the TOC distribution of shale intervals in the application of model-based interpretation methods. The LBCRM interpretation method based on the understanding of shale heterogeneity can effectively reduce the influence of formation factors other than TOC on the prediction accuracy by studying the characteristics of shale heterogeneity and constructing a TOC interpretation model for each lithofacies category. At the same time, the degree of unbalanced distribution of data is reduced, so that the data mining algorithm achieves better prediction effect. 3) The interpretability of lithofacies logging ensures the wellsite application based on the classification and regression model of lithofacies. Compared with the traditional homogeneous regression model, the prediction performance has been greatly improved, TOC segment prediction is more accurate. 4) The LBCRM method based on shale heterogeneity can better understand the reasons for the deviation of the traditional model-based interpretation method. After being combined with the latter, it can make logging data provide more useful information.
Living fossils and conservation values
Authors: Turner Derek , Han Junhyung
Published: January 2023

Horseshoe crabs (Limulus polyphemus) have been in decline in Long Island Sound, and recently there has been discussion of whether the state of Connecticut should stop issuing licenses for commercial harvesting. This paper argues that in spite of concerns about the living fossil concept, the fact that the horseshoe crabs are living fossils should count in favor of more stringent protection. The paper distinguishes four different views about the status of the living fossil concept: 1) eliminativism; 2) redefinition; 3) reframing; and 4) conceptual pluralism. Approaches 2–4 all treat the criteria associated with living fossils as picking out distinctive features of evolutionary history. Those distinctive features of evolutionary history link up with conservation values in several ways. More generally, drawing upon relevant work in environmental philosophy, it is argued that evolutionary history is relevant to aesthetic and environmental value. Moreover, eliminativists have trouble rendering intelligible a striking pattern in the recent scientific literature. Researchers undertaking conservation-relevant work frequently highlight the living fossil status of the taxa under study.
Study on stability and bearing characteristics of macroscopic pressure arch of surrounding rock in western deep buried stope of China
Authors: Yang Yuliang , Zhao Yixin , Ma Jianqi , Han Penghua
Published: January 2023

In view of the obvious loose and weak occurrence characteristics of the deeply buried thick weakly cemented stratum in the western mining area of China, the bearing characteristics and stability mechanism of the macrography surrounding rock pressure arch (SRPA) are studied. Firstly, considering the engineering characteristics of deep mining, a SRPA model with trapezoidal load was constructed based on the three-hinged arch theory, the shape characteristic, rise-span ratio and arch thickness equations were derived, the arch thickness under different stress paths is analyzed to characterize the bearing performance of pressure arch. Secondly, the internal force distribution law and destabilization damage type were studied by establishing a two-dimensional bearing SRPA model through arch without articulation theory. The instability type and location can be accurately judged and verified by simulation of similar materials. The results show that, the rational arch axis of SRPA is a cubic parabola with opening downward, its rise-span ratio is between 0.3 and 0.5. Increasing the rise-span ratio and lateral pressure coefficient can promote the stable bearing capacity of arch. Axial force distribution on the SRPA section is basically consistent with the arch axis, and the arch has the best bearing characteristics. The positive bending moment occurs in the ranges of [0°, 30°] and [81°, 90°] on both sides of the symmetry axis, where is prone to tensile failure. The maximum shear force is concentrated on the arch waist and skewback, and these sections are prone to shear failure. The instability modes of SRPA can be divided into “skewback—vault (arch waist)” and “vault (arch waist)—skewback”. The research results have theoretical guiding significance for mining roof management.
Robotic bilateral axillo-breast versus endoscopic bilateral areola thyroidectomy outcomes of 757 patients
Authors: Zhang Daqi , Wang Cheng , Sui Chengqiu , Li Kunlin , Yang Mingyu , Xue Gaofeng , Dionigi Gianlorenzo , Kim Hoon Yub , Sun Hui
Published: January 2023

Background

Remote endoscopic thyroidectomy (ET) and robotic thyroidectomy (RT) seem to be beneficial in selected situations to avoid anterior neck scars. There are limited data in the literature to determine whether RT via a bilateral axillo-breast approach (RT-BABA) is superior to ET via a bilateral areolar approach (ET-BAA). Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcomes of RT-BABA versus ET-BAA.

Methods

Between May 2013 and May 2022, 757 patients who underwent RT-BABA or ET-BAA at a high-volume Chinese thyroid center were included. Intraoperative and postoperative outcome parameters were collected and retrospectively analyzed. The moving average method was used to evaluate the learning curve.

Results

The proportion of patients older than 45 years was greater in the RT group than in the ET group (14.8% vs. 7.4%, p < 0.001). The percentage of overweight patients was greater in the RT group (28.8% vs. 9.5%, p < 0.001). The number of patients treated for malignant lesions was higher in the RT group (86.8% vs. 75%, p < 0.001). The rate of thyroiditis was higher in the RT group (10.9% vs. 6.6%, p < 0.001). Surgical time was significantly shorter in the RT group (140 vs. 165min, p < 0.001). Drainage volume was higher in the RT group (100 vs. 85ml, p < 0.001). Postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the RT group (3.04 ± 0.44 vs. 3.67 ± 0.89 days, p < 0.001). The cost in the RT group was higher (49627 ± 2795 vs. 25094 ± 3368 yuan, p < 0.001). Transient vocal cord dysfunction was lower in the RT group (2.9% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.003). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the number of central lymph nodes sampled, positive lymph nodes, neural monitoring (EMG) results, and rate of transient hypoparathyroidism. The learning curve for RT was 26 cases, and the operative time for ET was constant throughout the study.

Conclusions

RT-BABA is as safe and feasible as ET-BAA. RT-BABA performed better in some surgical outcomes. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm the safety of RT-BABA.
Vitamin D insufficiency and its association with adipokines and atherogenic indices in patients with metabolic syndrome: A case-control study
Authors: Amirkhizi Farshad , Khademi Zeinab , Hamedi−Shahraki Soudabeh , Rahimlou Mehran
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common nutritional disorders in most countries of the world. The present study was designed and implemented with the aim of investigating the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and the level of adipokines, atherogenesis indicators and factors related to metabolic syndrome.

Methods

This case-control study was done on 195 patients with metabolic syndrome aged 20-50 y who attended the health centers in Zabol County, northeast Iran, between April 2021 and January 2022. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were measured for all subjects with standard methods. To determine serum 25(OH)D levels, we used enzymatic linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) was calculated as log (TG/HDL-c). The visceral adiposity index (VAI) and the lipid accumulation product (LAP) were estimated according to standard formulas.

Results and Discussion

Participants in the case group had lower serum levels of 25(OH)D compared to controls (19.8 ± 6.2 ng/ml vs. 41.2 ± 9.7ng/ml, P<0.001). We found that the mean serum levels of fasting blood sugar (P=0.023) and TG (P=0.008) as well as HOMA-IR (P=0.023) were significantly higher in the cases compared to controls. Also, patients with MetS and vitamin D insufficiency (cases) had higher AIP (P=0.040) and LAP (P=0.012) than controls. Furthermore, serum 25(OH)D levels showed significant inverse correlations with serum RBP-4 and a positive correlation with serum omentin-1 concentrations. The results of the present study showed that vitamin D deficiency correlated with some of the cardiometabolic risk factors among the patients with MetS.
Prognosis comparison between small cell carcinoma of ovary and high-grade serous ovarian cancer: A retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Hu Dongzhi , Ma Dongdong , Zhang Zi-jian , Zhang Yongjing , Huang Kangni , Li Xiaoxue
Published: January 2023

Background

Small cell carcinoma of ovary (SCCO) is a rare and aggressive cancer primarily reported in the form of case reports. Due to limited epidemiological and prognostic analyses based on large populations, SCCO has varied considerably without prognostic models and a recognized first-line treatment strategy. The study aimed to compare the clinical characteristics, treatment methods, and prognosis of SCCO and high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), the most prevalent subtype of ovarian cancer, in a large sample and develop a predictive model for these two subtypes.

Methods

Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program were analyzed for patients with SCCO or HGSOC from 2000 to 2017. Clinical, demographic, and treatment characteristics were compared between the two groups. Propensity-score matching, Cox risk regression analysis, and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to assess the data. Finally, a nomogram was developed to predict the patient survival time.

Results

A total of 32,185 women, including 31,979 (99.4%) diagnosed with HGSOC and 206 (0.6%) diagnosed with SCCO, were identified. Age ≤ 51 years, single, median house income less than $70,000, early stage, and unilateral disease were more common characteristics of patients with SCCO than those with HGSOC. Patients with SCCO were more likely to receive radiotherapy (6.8% vs. 0.8%, p <0.001) and have tumors ≥ 141 mm (38.3% vs. 9.7%, p <0.001) than patients with HGSOC. The independent risk factors for SCCO patients included older age at diagnosis, advanced stage, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, larger tumor size, and bilateral tumor. Overall and cancer-specific survival rates were significantly lower for SCCO than more malignant HGSOC. Prognostic models and nomograms had been constructed to predict the individual survival rates of patients with SCCO and HGSOC.

Conclusion

Patients with SCCO presented with the early-stage disease more frequently than patients with HGSOC and had decreased overall and cancer-specific survival rates.
Discovery of a novel, liver-targeted thyroid hormone receptor-β agonist, CS271011, in the treatment of lipid metabolism disorders
Authors: Lin Suwen , Huang Shengjian , Deng Zhou , Zhang Yu , Huang Lin , Wu Yanyi , Lv Shuyan , Wang Zhiyi , Huang Ning , Wang Lan , Chen Ziqi , Yu Guangyin , Yin Weihua , Zhou You , Fang Zhengyu
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Thyroid hormone receptor β (THR-β) plays a critical role in metabolism regulation and has become an attractive target for treating lipid metabolism disorders in recent years. Thus, in this study, we discovered CS271011, a novel THR-β agonist, and assessed the safety and efficiency of CS271011 compared to MGL-3196 in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

We conducted luciferase reporter gene assays to assess the activation of THR-β and α in vitro. C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks, CS271011 was administered by gavage at the dose of 1 mg/kg and 3 mg/kg, and MGL-3196 was administered at the dose of 3 mg/kg for 10 weeks. Body weight, food intake, serum and hepatic parameters, histological analysis, pharmacokinetic studies, RNA sequencing of the liver and heart, and expression of hepatic lipid-metabolic genes were determined to evaluate the safety and efficiency of CS271011.

Results

Compared with MGL-3196, CS271011 showed higher THR-β activation in vitro. In the diet-induced obesity mice model, CS271011 demonstrated favourable pharmacokinetic properties in mice and was enriched in the liver. Finally, CS271011 improved dyslipidaemia and reduced liver steatosis in the diet-induced obesity murine model. Mechanistically, CS271011 and MGL-3196 showed potent regulation of lipid metabolism-related genes.

Conclusions

CS271011 is a potent and liver-targeted THR-β agonist for treating lipid metabolism disorders.
Finerenone in type 2 diabetes and renal outcomes: A random-effects model meta-analysis
Authors: Ghosal Samit , Sinha Binayak
Published: January 2023

Background

The nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid antagonist finerenone is a new addition to the list of agents (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors) conferring renal protection to patients with diabetic kidney disease. Two recent meta-analyses using the fixed effect model in patients with chronic kidney disease (both diabetic and nondiabetic populations) came to a conflicting conclusion on the effect of finerenone on eGFR decline. This meta-analysis was undertaken exclusively in the type 2 diabetes (T2D) population to explore the robustness and heterogeneity of the effect size by conducting a random effects model meta-analysis along with draft plots and prediction intervals.

Materials and methods

A database search was conducted using the Cochrane library, PubMed, and Embase to identify relevant citations. Analysis was conducted on the 14th of September 2022, using RevMan 5.4.1 and RStudio (2022.07.1, Build 554). The hazard ratio was used as the effect size for the renal composite, while the standardized mean difference (SMD) was used to estimate the effect size of eGFR decline and reduction in the urine albumin creatinine ratio (UACR). The Cochrane risk-of-bias was used to assess the quality of the studies. The primary outcome assessed was the renal composite defined as kidney failure, a sustained decrease of at least 40% in the eGFR from baseline, or death from renal causes.

Results

A pooled population of 13,943 patients from four citations was included for analysis. The Cochrane risk of bias was used to assess the quality of the studies. There was a significant 16% reduction in the renal composite (kidney failure, a sustained decrease of at least 40% in the eGFR from baseline, or death from renal causes) [HR: 0.84, 95% CI 0.77-0.92, 2: 0, I2: 0%). Finerenone was also associated with reduction in UACR (SMD: -0.49, 95% CI -0.53 to -0.46, τ2: < 0.0001, I2: 0%, prediction interval: -0.57 to -0.41) and prevention of decline in eGFR (SMD: -0.32, 95% CI -0.37 to -0.27, τ2: < 0.0001, I2: 0%, prediction interval: -0.43 to -0.21) without any evidence for significant heterogeneity. Except for an increase in hyperkalaemia (RR: 2.22, 95% CI 1.93-2.24), adverse events were observed with fineronone compared to placebo (RR: 1.00, 95% CI 0.98-1.01).

Conclusion

There are significant benefits in renal outcomes associated with finerenone treatment in T2D patients with established chronic kidney disease with a side effect profile comparable to placebo.
Multi–dimensional firefly algorithm based on local search for solving unit commitment problem
Authors: Yang Yude , Feng Yuan , Yang Lizhen
Published: January 2023

The Unit Commitment problem (UC) is a complex mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem, so the main challenge faced by many researchers is obtaining the optimal solution. Therefore, this dissertation proposes a new methodology combining the multi-dimensional firefly algorithm with local search called LS-MFA and utilizes it to solve the UC problem. In addition, adaptive adjustment, tolerance mechanism, and pit-jumping random strategy help to improve the optimal path and simplify the redundant solutions. The experimental work of unit commitment with the output of 10–100 machines in the 24-hour period is carried out in this paper. And it shows that compared with the previous UC artificial intelligence algorithms, the total cost obtained by LS-MFA is less and the results are excellent.
Coordinated economic dispatch of the primary and secondary heating systems considering the boiler’s supplemental heating
Authors: Li Jingxuan , Xue Yixun , Du Yuan , Pan Zhaoguang , Zhang Jiahui , Shao Yuyang , Sun Hongbin
Published: January 2023

District heating systems have been widely used in large and medium-sized cities. Typical district heating systems consist of the primary heating system (PHS) and the secondary heating system (SHS) operating in isolation. However, the isolated dispatch of the PHS and the SHS has poor adjustability and large losses, resulting in unnecessary operation costs. To address these issues, a coordinated economic dispatching model (CEDM) for the primary and secondary heating systems considering the boiler’s supplemental heating is proposed in this study, which characterized the physical properties of the PHS and the SHS in detail. Considering that the PHS and the SHS are controlled separately without central operators in practice, it is difficult to dispatch them in a centralized method. Thus, the master-slave splitting algorithm is innovatively introduced to solve the CEDM in a decentralized way. Finally, a P6S12 system is utilized to analyze and verify the effectiveness and optimality of the proposed algorithm.
Determining factors in shaping the sustainable behavior of the generation Z consumer
Authors: Dragolea Larisa-Loredana , Butnaru Gina Ionela , Kot Sebastian , Zamfir Cristina Gabriela , Nuţă Alina-Cristina , Nuţă Florian-Marcel , Cristea Dragoş Sebastian , Ştefănică Mirela
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Organizations currently emphasize green marketing strategies by implementing marketing practices, aiming to design, produce, promote and sell green products. Thus, both consumers and producers have turned their attention to the category of environmental friendly products, taking into account that the concept of green marketing is now being given greater importance. Responsible organizations have begun to adapt their strategies in production, promotion and interaction activities with consumers or potential consumers of organic products in the context we are going through, when environmental protection becomes an imperative. Analysis of the sustainable behavior of Generation Z is a determining factor from the perspective of the task that this generation will naturally take on, in terms of environmental responsibility.

Methods: The research aims to determine the profile of the Generation Z consumer, in order to adapt the strategic actions of the government or organizations to direct and educate as objectively and efficiently as possible towards adopting the principles of ecological, sustainable and responsible consumption. Based on the data collected through a survey, we analyzed the sustainable behavior of Generation Z consumers studying at Romanian universities where there are specializations in this field. The research is quantitative, using structural equation modelling with partial least squares (PLSSEM) to test the hypotheses regarding the relationship between the determining factors and the sustainable behavior of Generation Z consumers.

Results and Discussion: The results show that there is a positive relationship between both the sustainable behavior of Generation Z consumers and the satisfaction it conveys to them, as well as their environmental protection activities. However, there is no relationship between the sustainable behavior of Generation Z consumers and the green marketing practices of the organizations, environmental issues and their identification with the environmentally responsible consumer.
Characterization of algal community composition and structure from the nearshore environment, Lake Tahoe (United States)
Authors: Noble Paula J. , Seitz Carina , Lee Sylvia S. , Manoylov Kalina M. , Chandra Sudeep
Published: January 2023

Periphyton assemblages from the nearshore environment of the west (California) side of Lake Tahoe, were analyzed to determine their taxonomic composition and community structure across habitats and seasons. Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the US and an iconic oligotrophic subalpine lake with remarkable transparency. It has experienced offshore cultural eutrophication since the 1960s with observations of nuisance nearshore algal growth since the mid 2000s attributed to anthropogenic stressors. Samplings from November 2019–September 2020 provide useful snapshots against which older monitoring may be contextualized. A voucher flora, complete with descriptions, photo-documentation and referencing to species concepts employed, was created as a method of providing reproducible identification and enumeration of algal species, and more seamless reconciliation of detailed taxonomic data with future monitoring projects. The eulittoral zone (0–2 m) is seasonally dominated by elongate araphid (Synedra, Ulnaria) and stalked or entubed diatoms (Gomphonema, Cymbella, Encyonema). The sublittoral zone (>2 m) is dominated by a nitrogen-fixing Epithemia-cyanobacteria assemblage with less seasonal changes in dominance and composition that expanded to impinge on the 2 m depths of the eulittoral zone in the Fall. Sublittoral epipsammic samples, despite their proximity to rocks, had a very distinct diatom composition and high species dominance, similar to what was seen in the Fall eulittoral samples, with high numbers of Staurosirella chains and small biraphid diatoms. The deeper samples at 30 and 50 m contained high numbers of live Epithemia, and indicate a thriving sublittoral assemblage at these greater depths, but with less biomass. The 2019–20 data show many of the same diatom taxa observed in the 1970’s and 1980’s but with changes in species dominance. Notably, there was less of the green alga Mougeotia, when compared to the 1970’s data, and a higher dominance by nitrogen fixing Epithemia in the sublittoral zone, persisting year-round. These new data show roughly double the algal species biodiversity that had been documented previously in the Lake Tahoe nearshore, and is largely attributed to the methods employed. Adopting these new methods in future monitoring efforts should improve harmonization of taxonomic data and help advance our knowledge of the contributions to nearshore cultural eutrophication.
Assessment of the longitudinal humoral response in non-hospitalized SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals at decentralized sites: Outcomes and concordance
Authors: Djaïleb Abdelhadi , Lavallée Étienne , Parker Megan-Faye , Cayer Marie-Pierre , Desautels Florence , de Grandmont Marie Joëlle , Stuible Matthew , Gervais Christian , Durocher Yves , Trottier Sylvie , Boudreau Denis , Masson Jean-Francois , Brouard Danny , Pelletier Joelle N.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, reagent availability was not uniform, and infrastructure had to be urgently adapted to undertake COVID-19 surveillance.

Methods

Before the validation of centralized testing, two enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were established independently at two decentralized sites using different reagents and instrumentation. We compared the results of these assays to assess the longitudinal humoral response of SARS-CoV-2-positive (i.e., PCR-confirmed), non-hospitalized individuals with mild to moderate symptoms, who had contracted SARSCoV-2 prior to the appearance of variants of concern in Québec, Canada.

Results

The two assays exhibited a high degree of concordance to identify seropositive individuals, thus validating the robustness of the methods. The results also confirmed that serum immunoglobulins persist ≥ 6 months post-infection among non-hospitalized adults and that the antibodies elicited by infection cross-reacted with the antigens from P.1 (Gamma) and B.1.617.2 (Delta) variants of concern.

Discussion

Together, these results demonstrate that immune surveillance assays can be rapidly and reliably established when centralized testing is not available or not yet validated, allowing for robust immune surveillance.
Multimodal human thymic profiling reveals trajectories and cellular milieu for T agonist selection
Authors: Heimli Marte , Flåm Siri Tennebø , Hjorthaug Hanne Sagsveen , Trinh Don , Frisk Michael , Dumont Karl-Andreas , Ribarska Teodora , Tekpli Xavier , Saare Mario , Lie Benedicte Alexandra
Published: January 2023

To prevent autoimmunity, thymocytes expressing self-reactive T cell receptors (TCRs) are negatively selected, however, divergence into tolerogenic, agonist selected lineages represent an alternative fate. As thymocyte development, selection, and lineage choices are dependent on spatial context and cell-to-cell interactions, we have performed Cellular Indexing of Transcriptomes and Epitopes by sequencing (CITE-seq) and spatial transcriptomics on paediatric human thymu​​s. Thymocytes expressing markers of strong TCR signalling diverged from the conventional developmental trajectory prior to CD4+ or CD8+ lineage commitment, while markers of different agonist selected T cell populations (CD8αα(I), CD8αα(II), T(agonist), Treg(diff), and Treg) exhibited variable timing of induction. Expression profiles of chemokines and co-stimulatory molecules, together with spatial localisation, supported that dendritic cells, B cells, and stromal cells contribute to agonist selection, with different subsets influencing thymocytes at specific developmental stages within distinct spatial niches. Understanding factors influencing agonist T cells is needed to benefit from their immunoregulatory effects in clinical use.
Acute and long-term immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection in unvaccinated children and young adults with inborn errors of immunity
Authors: García-García Ana , Fortuny Claudia , Fumadó Victoria , Jordan Iolanda , Ruiz-López Laura , González-Navarro Europa Azucena , Egri Natalia , Esteve-Solé Ana , Luo Yiyi , Vlagea Alexandru , Cabedo Manel Monsonís , Launes Cristian , Soler Aleix , Codina Anna , Juan Manel , Pascal Mariona , Deyà-Martínez Angela , Alsina Laia
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To describe SARS-CoV-2 infection outcome in unvaccinated children and young adults with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) and to compare their specific acute and long-term immune responses with a sex-, age-, and severity-matched healthy population (HC).

Methods

Unvaccinated IEI patients up to 22 years old infected with SARS-CoV-2 were recruited along with a cohort of HC. SARS-CoV-2 serology and ELISpot were performed in the acute phase of infection (up to 6 weeks) and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

Results

Twenty-five IEI patients (median age 14.3 years, min.-max. range 4.5-22.8; 15/25 males; syndromic combined immunodeficiencies: 48.0%, antibody deficiencies: 16.0%) and 17 HC (median age 15.3 years, min.-max. range 5.4-20.0; 6/17 males, 35.3%) were included. Pneumonia occurred in 4/25 IEI patients. In the acute phase SARS-CoV-2 specific immunoglobulins were positive in all HC but in only half of IEI in whom it could be measured (n=17/25): IgG+ 58.8% (10/17) (p=0.009); IgM+ 41.2% (7/17)(p<0.001); IgA+ 52.9% (9/17)(p=0.003). Quantitative response (index) was also lower compared with HC: IgG IEI (3.1 ± 4.4) vs. HC (3.5 ± 1.5)(p=0.06); IgM IEI (1.9 ± 2.4) vs. HC (3.9 ± 2.4)(p=0.007); IgA IEI (3.3 ± 4.7) vs. HC (4.6 ± 2.5)(p=0.04). ELISpots positivity was qualitatively lower in IEI vs. HC (S-ELISpot IEI: 3/11, 27.3% vs. HC: 10/11, 90.9%; p=0.008; N-ELISpot IEI: 3/9, 33.3% vs. HC: 11/11, 100%; p=0.002) and also quantitatively lower (S-ELISpot IEI: mean index 3.2 ± 5.0 vs. HC 21.2 ± 17.0; p=0.001; N-ELISpot IEI: mean index 9.3 ± 16.6 vs. HC: 39.1 ± 23.7; p=0.004). As for long term response, SARS-CoV-2-IgM+ at 6 months was qualitatively lower in IEI(3/8, 37.5% vs. 9/10 HC: 90.0%; p=0.043), and quantitatively lower in all serologies IgG, M, and A (IEI n=9, 1.1 ± 0.9 vs. HC n=10, 2.1 ± 0.9, p=0.03; IEI n=9, 1.3 ± 1.5 vs. HC n=10, 2.9 ± 2.8, p=0.02; and IEI n=9, 0.6 ± 0.5 vs. HC n=10, 1.7 ± 0.8, p=0.002 –respectively) but there were no differences at remaining time points.

Conclusions

Our IEI pediatric cohort had a higher COVID-19 pneumonia rate than the general age-range population, with lower humoral and cellular responses in the acute phase (even lower compared to the reported IEI serological response after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination), and weaker humoral responses at 6 months after infection compared with HC.
The incidence of vasovagal reactions during earlobe piercing
Authors: Xie Zi-ao , Zhang Kai-li , Han Fang , Tang Meng-yao , Chen Jue-wei , Liu Guang-peng
Published: January 2023

Background

Vasovagal reactions are common amongst patients with a fear of needles receiving injections or during venipuncture, but they are rarely studied in healthy people undergoing earlobe piercing. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the incidence and the features of vasovagal reactions observed during earlobe piercing.

Methods

Thousand eight hundred and sixty six participants aged older than 13 years had their earlobes pierced in our department from January 2020 to January 2022. When vasovagal reactions occurred during the procedure (e.g., dizziness, pallor, diaphoresis, and faintness, etc.), they were recorded and more detailed demographic information was collected.

Results

A total of 196 cases of vasovagal reactions were reported in females amongst 1,866 participants, including 58 who actually lost consciousness during earlobe piercing. The incidence of vasovagal reactions and vasovagal syncope was 10.5 and 3.11% respectively. All syncopal reactions occurred in persons younger than 30 years.

Conclusion

Vasovagal syncope is often very sudden and occurs without warning. Practitioners need to be familiar with these reactions, and prevent people from an unpredictable fall and subsequent injury during ear piercing.
Novel dithiocarbamate derivatives are effective copper-dependent antimicrobials against Streptococcal species
Authors: Menghani Sanjay V. , Sanchez-Rosario Yamil , Pok Chansorena , Liu Renshuai , Gao Feng , O’Brien Henrik , Neubert Miranda J. , Ochoa Klariza , Durckel Meredythe , Hellinger Riley D. , Hackett Nadia , Wang Wei , Johnson Michael D. L.
Published: January 2023

Despite the availability of several vaccines against multiple disease-causing strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, the rise of antimicrobial resistance and pneumococcal disease caused by strains not covered by the vaccine creates a need for developing novel antimicrobial strategies. N,N-dimethyldithiocarbamate (DMDC) was found to be a potent copper-dependent antimicrobial against several pathogens, including S. pneumoniae. Here, DMDCs efficacy against Streptococcal pathogens Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Streptococcus anginosus was tested using bactericidal and inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry. After confirming DMDC as broad-spectrum streptococcal antimicrobial, DMDC was derivatized into five compounds. The derivatives’ effectiveness as copper chelators using DsRed2 and as copper-dependent antimicrobials against S. pneumoniae TIGR4 and tested in bactericidal and animal models. Two compounds, sodium N-benzyl-N-methyldithiocarbamate and sodium N-allyl-N-methyldithiocarbamate (herein “Compound 3” and “Compound 4”), were effective against TIGR4 and further, D39 and ATCC® 6303™ _(a type 3 capsular strain). Both Compound 3 and 4 increased the pneumococcal internal concentrations of copper to the same previously reported levels as with DMDC and copper treatment. However, in an in vivo murine pneumonia model, Compound 3, but not Compound 4, was effective in significantly decreasing the bacterial burden in the blood and lungs of S. pneumoniae-infected mice. These derivatives also had detrimental effects on the other streptococcal species. Collectively, derivatizing DMDC holds promise as potent bactericidal antibiotics against relevant streptococcal pathogens.
A transcriptional activator from Rhizophagus irregularis regulates phosphate uptake and homeostasis in AM symbiosis during phosphorous starvation
Authors: Zhang Shuyuan , Nie Yuying , Fan Xiaoning , Wei Wei , Chen Hui , Xie Xianan , Tang Ming
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Phosphorus (P) is one of the most important nutrient elements for plant growth and development. Under P starvation, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi can promote phosphate (Pi) uptake and homeostasis within host plants. However, the underlying mechanisms by which AM fungal symbiont regulates the AM symbiotic Pi acquisition from soil under P starvation are largely unknown. Here, we identify a HLH domain containing transcription factor RiPho4 from Rhizophagus irregularis.

Methods

To investigate the biological functions of the RiPho4, we combined the subcellular localization and Yeast One-Hybrid (Y1H) experiments in yeasts with gene expression and virus-induced gene silencing approach during AM symbiosis.

Results

The approach during AM symbiosis. The results indicated that RiPho4 encodes a conserved transcription factor among different fungi and is induced during the in planta phase. The transcription of RiPho4 is significantly up-regulated by P starvation. The subcellular localization analysis revealed that RiPho4 is located in the nuclei of yeast cells during P starvation. Moreover, knock-down of RiPho4 inhibits the arbuscule development and mycorrhizal Pi uptake under low Pi conditions. Importantly, RiPho4 can positively regulate the downstream components of the phosphate (PHO) pathway in R. irregularis.

Discussion

In summary, these new findings reveal that RiPho4 acts as a transcriptional activator in AM fungus to maintain arbuscule development and regulate Pi uptake and homeostasis in the AM symbiosis during Pi starvation.
Endometrial microbiota in women with and without adenomyosis: A pilot study
Authors: Lin Qi , Duan Hua , Wang Sha , Guo Zhengchen , Wang Sirui , Chang Yanan , Chen Chao , Shen Minghong , Shou Hejun , Zhou Chang
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The endometrial microbiota plays an essential role in the health of the female reproductive system. However, the interactions between the microbes in the endometrium and their effects on adenomyosis remain obscure.

Materials and methods

We profile endometrial samples from 38 women with (n=21) or without (n=17) adenomyosis to characterize the composition of the microbial community and its potential function in adenomyosis using 5R 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

The microbiota profiles of patients with adenomyosis were different from the control group without adenomyosis. Furthermore, analysis identified Lactobacillus zeae, Burkholderia cepacia, Weissella confusa, Prevotella copri, and Citrobacter freundii as potential biomarkers for adenomyosis. In addition, Citrobacter freundii, Prevotella copri, and Burkholderia cepacia had the most significant diagnostic value for adenomyosis. PICRUSt results identified 30 differentially regulated pathways between the two groups of patients. In particular, we found that protein export, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism were upregulated in adenomyosis. Our results clarify the relationship between the endometrial microbiota and adenomyosis.

Discussion

The endometrial microbiota of adenomyosis exhibits a unique structure and Citrobacter freundii, Prevotella copri, and Burkholderia cepacia were identified as potential pathogenic microorganisms associated with adenomyosis. Our findings suggest that changes in the endometrial microbiota of patients with adenomyosis are of potential value for determining the occurrence, progression, early of diagnosis, and treatment oadenomyosis.
Cell wall modifications that alter the exolytic activity of lactococcal phage endolysins have little impact on phage growth
Authors: Escobedo Susana , Pérez de Pipaon Mikel , Rendueles Claudia , Rodríguez Ana , Martínez Beatriz
Published: January 2023

Bacteriophages are a nuisance in the production of fermented dairy products driven by starter bacteria and strategies to reduce the risk of phage infection are permanently sought. Bearing in mind that the bacterial cell wall plays a pivotal role in host recognition and lysis, our goal was to elucidate to which extent modifications in the cell wall may alter endolysin activity and influence the outcome of phage infection in Lactococcus. Three lactococcal endolysins with distinct catalytic domains (CHAP, amidase and lysozyme) from phages 1,358, p2 and c2 respectively, were purified and their exolytic activity was tested against lactococcal mutants either overexpressing or lacking genes involved in the cell envelope stress (CES) response or in modifying peptidoglycan (PG) composition. After recombinant production in E. coli, Lys1358 (CHAP) and LysC2 (muramidase) were able to lyse lactococcal cells in turbidity reduction assays, but no activity of LysP2 was detected. The degree of PG acetylation, namely C6-O-acetylation and de-N-acetylation influenced the exolytic activity, being LysC2 more active against cells depleted of the PG deacetylase PgdA and the O-acetyl transferase OatA. On the contrary, both endolysins showed reduced activity on cells with an induced CES response. By measuring several growth parameters of phage c2 on these lactococcal mutants (lytic score, efficiency of plaquing, plaque size and one-step curves), a direct link between the exolytic activity of its endolysin and phage performance could not be stablished.
Lipid profiles in the cerebrospinal fluid of rats with 6-hydroxydopamine-induced lesions as a model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Qiu Jiewen , Peng Guoyou , Tang Yuting , Li Shiyin , Liu Zengfu , Zheng Jiayun , Wang Yunxin , Liu Hanqun , Wei Lijian , Su Yilin , Lin Yuwan , Dai Wei , Zhang Zhiling , Chen Xiang , Ding Liuyan , Guo Wenyuan , Zhu Xiaoqin , Xu Pingyi , Mo Mingshu
Published: January 2023

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with characteristic pathological abnormalities, including the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons, a dopamine-depleted striatum, and microglial activation. Lipid accumulation exhibits a close relationship with these pathologies in PD.

Methods

Here, 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was used to construct a rat model of PD, and the lipid profile in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained from model rats was analyzed using lipidomic approaches.

Results

Establishment of this PD model was confirmed by apomorphine-induced rotation behaviors, loss of DA neurons, depletion of dopamine in the striatum, and microglial activation after 6-OHDA-induced lesion generation. Unsupervised and supervised methods were employed for lipid analysis. A total of 172 lipid species were identified in CSF and subsequently classified into 18 lipid families. Lipid families, including eicosanoids, triglyceride (TG), cholesterol ester (CE), and free fatty acid (FFA), and 11 lipid species exhibited significantly altered profiles 2 weeks after 6-OHDA administration, and significant changes in eicosanoids, TG, CE, CAR, and three lipid species were noted 5 weeks after 6-OHDA administration. During the period of 6-OHDA-induced lesion formation, the lipid families and species showed concentration fluctuations related to the recovery of behavior and nigrostriatal abnormalities. Correlation analysis showed that the levels of eicosanoids, CE, TG families, and TG (16:0_20:0_18:1) exhibited positive relationships with apomorphine-induced rotation behaviors and negative relationships with tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the midbrain.

Conclusion

These results revealed that non-progressive nigrostriatal degeneration induced by 6-OHDA promotes the expression of an impairment-related lipidomic signature in CSF, and the level of eicosanoids, CE, TG families, and TG (16:0_20:0_18:1) in CSF may reveal pathological changes in the midbrain after 6-OHDA insult.
A retrospective evaluation of the Brain and Body Fitness Studio service on functional capacity and quality of life in people with neurological disorders
Authors: Ramos Joyce S. , Chakraborty Ranjay , Dalleck Lance C. , Sarunic Kristina , Khadka Jyoti , Haslam Tayla , Nassaris Olivia
Published: January 2023

Background

People with neurological disorders (ND) are less physically active than the general population due to physical, sensory, and/or cognitive impairments. These individuals often feel intimidated to join mainstream health and wellness centers due to lack of specialized support for people with ND. The Brain and Body Fitness Studio (BBFS) is one of the first Accredited Exercise Physiologist-led interprofessional services in Adelaide South Australia to provide individualized evidence-based multimodal exercise prescription and social support for this population. This comprehensive retrospective study evaluated the impact of BBFS on functional capacity (FC) determined as the 6-min walk distance (6 MWD) achieved during a 6-min walk test (6 MWT), of its members with ND.

Methods

Sixty-two BBFS members (age, 66 ± 10 years; 60% male) with ND (85% Parkinson's Disease; average time since diagnosis, 4 years [IQR, 2 to 12 years]) and complete pre- and post-6-month clinical assessment of the primary outcome of the study, the 6 MWD, were included in this retrospective analysis. A series of sub-analyses were also performed to investigate the effects of adherence to the recommended prescription of at least twice a week in the program (≥80 vs. < 80% adherence), and disease stage (time since diagnosis; ≥6 vs. < 6 years) on FC.

Results

Although there was no statistically significant change in 6 MWD from pre- to post-6-month BBFS program (+15 ± 90 m,p= 0.19), a clinically meaningful improvement of >14 m was evident. Improvement in 6 MWD was significantly greater in members who attended at least 80% of the recommended visits (≥80% visits, +37 ± 58 m; ≤ 80% visits,−1 ± 105 m,p= 0.046). We also found a 6 MWD improvement from pre- to post-6 months in those in the early years of their ND (< 6 years since diagnosis, +39 ± 76 m), but not in those in the later years of their ND (≥6 years since diagnosis, −36 ± 123 m, between group difference,p= 0.029).

Conclusion

A clinically meaningful 6 MWD improvement may be elicited by services provided by BBFS in people with ND. Overall, the benefits appear to be more evident in members who attended the BBFS for at least 80% of the recommended visits and those who were in the early stage of their ND diagnosis.
Association of BDNF gene missense polymorphism rs6265 (Val66Met) with three quantitative traits, namely, intelligence quotient, body mass index, and blood pressure: A genetic association analysis from North India
Authors: Fatma Rafat , Chauhan Waseem , Shahi Mehdi Hayat , Afzal Mohammad
Published: January 2023

Background

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotransmitter modulator, plays a significant role in neuronal survival and growth and participates in neuronal plasticity, thus being essential for learning, memory, and the development of cognition. Additionally, it is crucial for appetite, weight, and metabolic control and plays a pivotal role in the cardiovascular system. The Val66Met polymorphism (rs6265) of the BDNF gene causes a decrease in BDNF secretion and plays a role in impairments in cognition, energy homeostasis, and cardiovascular events. The present study aimed to evaluate the association of polymorphism (rs6265) of the BDNF gene with three quantitative traits simultaneously, namely, intelligence quotient (IQ), body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure (BP).

Methods

Psychometric, morphometric, and physiometric data of the total participants (N = 246) were collected. WASI-IIINDIA was used to measure cognitive ability. Genotyping was carried out using allele-specific PCR for the rs6265 polymorphism (C196T), and genotypes were determined. Statistical analyses were performed at p < 0.05 significance level using MS-Excel and SigmaPlot. The odds ratio models with a 95% confidence interval were used to test the associations. The used models are co-dominant, recessive, dominant, over–dominant, and additive.

Results

The allelic frequencies of alleles C and T were 72 and 28%, respectively. Under the dominant genetic model, a significant susceptible association of minor allele T was observed with a lower average verbal comprehensive index (OR = 2.216, p = 0.003, CI (95%) =1.33–3.69), a lower average performance reasoning index (OR = 2.634, p < 0.001, CI (95%) = 1.573–4.41), and a lower average full-scale IQ-4 (OR = 3.159, p < 0.001, CI (95%) = 1.873–5.328). Carriers of Met-alleles were found to have an increased body mass index (OR = 2.538, p < 0.001, CI (95%) = 1.507–4.275), decreased systolic blood pressure (OR = 2.051, p = 0.012, CI (95%) = 1.202–3.502), and decreased diastolic blood pressure (OR = 2.162, p = 0.006, CI (95%) = 1.278–3.657). Under the recessive genetic model, several folds decrease in IQ and BP and an increase in BMI with the presence of the T allele was also detected.

Conclusion

This novel study may improve our understanding of genetic alterations to the traits and hence be helpful for clinicians and researchers to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of this neurotrophic factor.