bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TEACHING SUBJECTS BEYOND EXPERTISE
Authors:   Madridejos Community College, Madridejos Cebu, Province of Cebu, Philippines., CANOY PRISCILLA F. , GIDO NATHANIEL ,   Madridejos Community College, Madridejos Cebu, Province of Cebu, Philippines., MONTAJES GILBERT JOHN ,   Madridejos Community College, Madridejos Cebu, Province of Cebu, Philippines., CANOY RENATO ,   Liceo de Cagayan University, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines., TUYOR AMANAH ,   Liceo de Cagayan University, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines.
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to look into the social effects of teaching subjects that are outside the scope of the twenty-six (26) teachers at X-National High School. A modified survey questionnaire created by the researchers is organized into three distinct sections. It asks for information about the respondent's gender, age, educational background, and performance rating in Part 1. The answers to the problem stated are in Part II. In Part III, questions are asked on difficulties faced by teachers who taught two or more subjects and how they overcame those difficulties. Frequency and percentages are shown in Tables 1 through 5. With the use of the mean, standard deviation, and qualitative analysis, Tables 6 and 7 are interpreted. The ideas and opinions of the respondents were presented using qualitative analysis for difficulties 3 and 4. Based on the study's findings, it was discovered that professors tasked with instructing students on topics other than their own have difficulty. This results from the shortage of instructional resources, the short class hour, the accessibility of recent and high-quality books in the school library, and the production of the daily lesson log (DLL). Despite the fact that they were not experts in the subjects they taught, they accepted the position when the head of their school assigned it to them. Additionally, the difficulty of locating educational resources and instructional materials is lessened thanks to technology and the Internet. As a result, they concur that it is their responsibility to educate, and as such, they may effectively manage their time so as to be flexible in undertaking things other than teaching.
Assessing the causal role of hypertension on left atrial and left ventricular structure and function: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Sun Yancui , Zhang Ying , Xu Nan , Bi Cheng , Liu Xiaojie , Song Wei , Jiang Yinong
Published: November 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate whether hypertension may be causally linked to left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) structure and function.

Methods and results

We performed a two-Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis implementing the results from the FinnGen large-scale, genome-wide association study for hypertension (N = 218,754), and LV (N = 16,923) and LA studies (N = 35,648) by the UK Biobank to identify genetic instruments. The MR analysis was implemented using an inverse-variance weighted (IVW) approach. We identified a positive potential causal relationship between hypertension and indices for the LA maximum (LAmax with causal estimates of 0.126 [95% CI, (0.093 to 0.160)]); LA minimum (LAmin with causal estimates of 0.122 [95% CI, (0.089 to 0.156)]); LV function (causal estimates are LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), 0.078 [95% CI, (0.003 to 0.153)]; LV end-systolic volume (LVESV), 0.102 [95% CI, (0.030 to 0.173)]; LV mass (LVM), 0.171 [95% CI, (0.108 to 0.233)]; and LV mass to end-diastolic volume ratio (LVMVR at 0.098 [95% CI, (0.048 to 0.149)], respectively), which was directionally concordant with other robust MR methods. Other than this, we observed a significantly negative causal relationship between hypertension and the LA active emptying fraction (LAAEF), the LA passive emptying fraction (LAPEF), and the LA total emptying fraction (LATEF).

Conclusion

Our genetic analyses demonstrated a potential causal relationship between hypertension and the left atrium and left ventricle’s structures and functions.
A case report and review of literature: Tuberculous pericarditis with pericardial effusion as the only clinical manifestation
Authors: Wang Shipeng , Wang Jingyue , Liu Junqian , Zhang Zhiyu , He Jiahuan , Wang Yushi
Published: November 2022

Tuberculosis is a main cause of pericardial disease in developing countries. However, in patients with atypical clinical presentation, it can lead to misdiagnosis, missed diagnosis, and delayed treatment. In this study, we report a case of a 61-year-old woman admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit with “weakness and loss of appetite” and a large pericardial effusion shown by echocardiography. After hospitalization, a pericardiocentesis was performed, and the pericardial fluid was hemorrhagic. However, the Xpert MTB/RIF and T-SPOT tests were negative, and repeated phlegm antacid smears and culture of pericardial fluid did not reveal antacid bacilli. The patient eventually underwent thoracoscopic pericardial biopsy, which revealed extensive inflammatory cells and significant granulomas. Combined with the fact that the patient’s pericardial effusion was exudate, the patient was considered to be suspected of tuberculous pericarditis (TBP) and given empirical anti-tuberculosis treatment the patient’s symptoms improved and the final diagnosis was TBP. In this case report, it is further shown that a negative laboratory test cannot exclude tuberculosis infection. In recurrent unexplained pericardial effusions, the pericardial biopsy is feasible. In countries with a high burden of tuberculosis, empirical antituberculosis therapy may be used to treat the pericardial effusion that excludes other possible factors.
A remote group-mediated daylong physical activity intervention for older adults with chronic pain: Results of the MORPH-II randomized pilot trial
Authors: Fanning Jason , Brooks Amber K. , Ford Sherri , Robison Justin T. , Irby Megan B. , Rejeski W. Jack
Published: November 2022

Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects many older adults who often have limited access to non-pharmacological pain management strategies. One potentially effective and novel lifestyle medicine for chronic pain involves increasing physical activity through frequent movement across the day, thereby also decreasing the presence of extended sedentary bouts. The MORPH-II pilot randomized controlled refinement trial iterated on the MORPH trial, which was a first-of-its-kind group-mediated daylong physical activity (DPA) intervention for older adults with chronic pain rooted in social cognitive and self-determination theories and supported by an mHealth toolset designed to foster social connection and awareness of physical activity patterns. MORPH-II was delivered fully remotely via videoconference software and supported by a technology kit comprising an iPad, activity monitor, and wireless weight scale. It was also implemented a refined coaching model designed to help participants better understand their own patterns of activity. A total of 44 participants were randomized to receive the 12-week group-mediated DPA intervention or to a low-contact control. Qualitative interviews suggest the program was well-received by participants and that participants developed an understanding of how patterns of physical activity related to their pain symptoms. Participants also highlighted several additional areas for refinement related to the coaching model and feedback provided within the mHealth app. Analyses of covariance, controlling for baseline values, revealed a small effect (η2 = 0.01) on pain intensity favoring the intervention condition, though both groups improved during the study period. There was a large effect favoring the intervention condition on ActivPAL-assessed average daily steps (η2 = 0.23) and postural shifts (η2 = 0.24). Control participants spent less time in short sedentary bouts (η2 = 0.09), and there was a small effect (η2 = 0.02) indicating intervention participants spent less time in extended sedentary bouts. Finally, relative to control, intervention participants demonstrated a moderate improvement in autonomy satisfaction (η2 = 0.05), relatedness frustration (η2 = 0.05), and competence frustration (η2 = 0.06), and a large magnitude improvement in competence satisfaction (η2 = 0.22). These findings indicate that the MORPH-II intervention was feasible and acceptable, and may positively impact steps, postural breaks, and several key domains of basic psychological needs detailed in self-determination theory.
Daily runoff and its potential error sources reconstructed using individual satellite hydrological variables at the basin upstream
Authors: Fok Hok Sum , Chen Yutong , Zhou Linghao
Published: November 2022

Basin-scale hydropower operation and water resource allocation rely on in situ river discharge measured at a river mouth, which is referred to as runoff. Due to labor intensiveness and tight financial constraints, satellite hydrological variables have been advocated for reconstructing monthly runoff via regressing with nearby measured monthly river discharge over the past two decades. Nevertheless, daily runoff reconstruction by regressing with upstream satellite hydrological variables on a daily scale has yet to be examined. A data standardization approach is proposed for daily runoff reconstructed using satellite hydrological data upstream of the Mekong Basin. It was found that the accuracy of reconstructed and predicted daily runoff against in situ runoff was substantially increased, in particular, the troughs (peaks) during dry (wet) seasons, respectively, when compared to that of the direct linear regression. The backwater impact on the runoff accuracy is negligible after standardization, implying the possibility of choosing the basin exit at the entrance of the river delta. Results generated from the data standardization via neural network–based models do not improve consistently or even a bit worse than that of the linear regression. The best forecasted runoff, yielding the lowest relative error of 8.6%, was obtained from the upstream standardized water storage index. Detrended cross-correlation analysis indicated that the reconstructed and forecasted runoff from the data standardization yielded a cross-correlation larger than 0.8 against in situ data within most window sizes. Further improvement lies in the methodology for mitigating the influence due to climate variability and extreme events.
Low-normal serum unconjugated bilirubin levels are associated with late but not early carotid atherosclerotic lesions in T2DM subjects
Authors: Jin Chun-Hua , Wang Jun-Wei , Ke Jiang-Feng , Li Jing-Bo , Li Mei-Fang , Li Lian-Xi
Published: November 2022

Aims

We aimed to examine the association of serum unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) within normal limits with carotid atherosclerosis in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

This cross-sectional, real-world study was performed in 8,006 hospitalized T2DM patients including 4,153 men and 3,853 women with normal UCB. The subjects were stratified into quintiles based on serum UCB levels (<6.2, 6.2–7.9, 8.0–8.9, 9.0–10.9, and >10.9 μmol/l, respectively). Carotid atherosclerotic lesions detected by ultrasonography, including carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), carotid plaque, and stenosis, were compared among the five groups. The associations of serum UCB levels and quintiles with carotid atherosclerotic lesions were also determined by multiple logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of carotid plaque (55.3%, 49.5%, 47.4%, 43.8%, and 37.5%, respectively; p < 0.001 for trend) and stenosis (15.2%, 12.2%, 9.1%, 7.7%, and 5.4%, respectively; p < 0.001 for trend) was progressively lower across the UCB quintiles even after adjusting for age, sex, and duration of diabetes. Results of a fully adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that serum UCB levels and quintiles were significantly associated with carotid plaque and stenosis. Compared with the subjects in the lowest UCB quintile, the risk of carotid plaque decreased by 25.5%, 28.7%, 33.5%, and 42.8%, and that of carotid stenosis by 24.6%, 37.4%, 44.9%, and 47.3%, respectively, in those from the second to highest UCB quintiles. High serum UCB within the normal range was a protective factor against carotid plaque [odds ratio (OR) 0.810, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.747–0.878; p < 0.001] and stenosis [OR 0.722, 95% CI 0.647–0.805; p < 0.001]. However, no significant association was observed between serum UCB and CIMT in T2DM patients. Furthermore, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were significantly higher in the subjects with carotid atherosclerosis than in those without carotid atherosclerosis and clearly decreased across the UCB quintiles.

Conclusions

Serum UCB within normal limits is inversely associated with late carotid atherosclerotic lesions including carotid plaque and stenosis but not CIMT, an early carotid atherosclerotic lesion in T2DM patients. High-normal UCB may be protective against carotid atherosclerosis by its anti-inflammation effect, which was indicated by significantly decreased CRP levels from the lowest to highest UCB quintiles.
Positive BRAFV600E mutation of primary tumor influences radioiodine avidity but not prognosis of papillary thyroid cancer with lung metastases
Authors: Huang Shuhui , Qi Mengfang , Tian Tian , Dai Hongyuan , Tang Yuan , Huang Rui
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study investigated the relationship between BRAFV600E mutation of the primary tumor and radioiodine avidity in lung metastases (LMs) and then further evaluated the impact of BRAFV600E mutation and radioiodine avidity status on the prognosis of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) with LMs.

Methods

Ninety-four PTC patients with LMs after total thyroidectomy and cervical lymph node dissection between January 2012 and September 2021 were retrospectively included. All patients received BRAFV600E mutation examination of primary tumors and radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy. The therapeutic response was evaluated by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) assessments (version 1.1). For patients with target lesions, the response was divided into complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), and progressive disease (PD); for patients without target lesions, the response was divided into CR, non-CR/non-PD, and PD. In therapeutic response, PR and SD were classified as non-CR/non-PD for analysis. The chi-square test and logistic regression were used to analyze the impact factor on PD and mortality. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) curves were constructed by the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

It was found that 21.2% (7/33) of patients with positive BRAFV600E mutation and 62.3% (38/61) of patients with negative BRAFV600E mutation had radioiodine-avid LMs (χ2 = 14.484, p = 0.000). Patients with positive BRAFV600E mutation are more likely to lose radioiodine avidity; the odds ratios (ORs) were 5.323 (95% CI: 1.953–14.514, p = 0.001). Finally, 25 patients had PD, and six patients died; loss of radioiodine avidity was the independent predictor for PD, and the ORs were 10.207 (95% CI: 2.629–39.643, p = 0.001); BRAFV600E mutation status was not correlated with PD (p = 0.602), whether in the radioiodine avidity group (p = 1.000) or the non-radioiodine avidity group (p = 0.867). Similarly, BRAFV600E mutation status was not correlated with mortality; only loss of radioiodine avidity was the unfavorable factor associated with mortality in univariate analyses (p = 0.030).

Conclusion

Patients with LMs of PTC were more likely to lose radioiodine avidity when their primary tumor had positive BRAFV600E mutation; however, only radioiodine avidity and not BRAFV600E mutation status affected the clinical outcome of patients with lung metastatic PTC.
New model for predicting terminal settling velocity and drag coefficient of the Oncomelania
Authors: Liu Xiaoguang , Wang Jiasheng , Chai Zhaohui , Min Fengyang , Jiang Xi , Zhu Kongxian , Dai Juan
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a study of the terminal settling velocity and drag coefficient of the Oncomelanias with highly irregular shape in the range of particle Reynolds number (10 < Rep < 600). The movement characteristics of the Oncomelanias with horizontal and slant postures are revealed using image analysis and wavelet analysis. The shape features of Oncomelanias with different dimensions are quantified and formulated. The authors propose a new model for predicting the drag coefficient of the dormant and active Oncomelanias, which is proven to be better than several widely-used formulas. Further, a simple settling velocity model that can predict the terminal velocity of the Oncomelanias fairly with several easy-to-measure parameters is developed. These findings provide a basis for the further improvement for the hydraulic schistosomiasis control project and supply reference for the settling characteristics and drag coefficient of cone-shaped particles.
Divergent responses of plant and soil microbial community to short-term nutrient addition in alpine grassland on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Du Juan , Tan Tianyuan , Jiang Shengjing
Published: November 2022

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are the main restrictive elements in terrestrial ecosystems, which have an important role in determining the community composition of plants and soil microorganisms. However, there is still a lack of understanding about whether plant and soil microbes respond synchronously to external N and P addition deposition, particularly on a short time scale (< 1 year). Here, we conducted a short-term experiment (3 months) involving control, N addition, P addition, and N + P addition in an alpine grassland on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Responses of plant and soil microbial (bacterial and fungal) communities were analyzed using the quadrat method and high-throughput sequencing, respectively. N addition significantly increased aboveground biomass and changed the plant community composition, but had no significant effect on soil microbes. Thus, microbial and plant processes were asynchronous following the resource availability in this alpine meadow. According to our research, the plant community may react to short-term nutrient deposition more quickly than the soil microbial community.
Genetic and epigenetic regulation of growth, reproduction, disease resistance and stress responses in aquaculture
Authors: Liu Zhanjiang , Zhou Tao , Gao Dongya
Published: November 2022

Major progress has been made with genomic and genetic studies in aquaculture in the last decade. However, research on epigenetic regulation of aquaculture traits is still at an early stage. It is apparent that most, if not all, aquaculture traits are regulated at both genetic and epigenetic levels. This paper reviews recent progress in understanding of genetic and epigenetic regulation of important aquaculture traits such as growth, reproduction, disease resistance, and stress responses. Although it is challenging to make generalized statements, DNA methylation is mostly correlated with down-regulation of gene expression, especially when at promoters and enhancers. As such, methylation of growth factors and their receptors is negatively correlated with growth; hypomethylation of genes important for stress tolerance is correlated with increased stress tolerance; hypomethylation of genes important for male or female sex differentiation leads to sex differentiation into males or females, respectively. It is apparent that environmental regulation of aquaculture traits is mediated at the level of epigenetic regulation, and such environment-induced epigenetic changes appeared to be intergenerationally inherited, but evidences for transgenerational inheritance are still limited.
Do common infections trigger disease-onset or -severity in CTLA-4 insufficiency?
Authors: Krausz Máté , Mitsuiki Noriko , Falcone Valeria , Komp Johanna , Posadas-Cantera Sara , Lorenz Hanns-Martin , Litzman Jiri , Wolff Daniel , Kanariou Maria , Heinkele Anita , Speckmann Carsten , Häcker Georg , Hengel Hartmut , Gámez-Díaz Laura , Grimbacher Bodo
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Heterozygous mutations in CTLA4 lead to an inborn error of immunity characterized by immune dysregulation and immunodeficiency, known as CTLA-4 insufficiency. Cohort studies on CTLA4 mutation carriers showed a reduced penetrance (around 70%) and variable disease expressivity, suggesting the presence of modifying factors. It is well studied that infections can trigger autoimmunity in humans, especially in combination with a genetic predisposition.

Methods

To investigate whether specific infections or the presence of specific persisting pathogens are associated with disease onset or severity in CTLA-4 insufficiency, we have examined the humoral immune response in 13 CTLA4 mutation carriers, seven without clinical manifestation and six with autoimmune manifestations, but without immunoglobulin replacement therapy against cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus 1/2 (HSV 1/2), parvovirus B19 and Toxoplasma gondii. Additionally, we have measured FcγRIII/CD16A activation by EBV-specific IgG antibodies to examine the functional capabilities of immunoglobulins produced by CTLA4 mutation carriers.

Results

The seroprevalence between affected and unaffected CTLA4 mutation carriers did not differ significantly for the examined pathogens. Additionally, we show here that CTLA4 mutation carriers produce EBV-specific IgG, which are unimpaired in activating FcγRIII/CD16A.

Conclusions

Our results show that the investigated pathogens are very unlikely to trigger the disease onset in CTLA-4-insufficient individuals, and their prevalence is not correlated with disease severity or expressivity.
Pseudorabies virus-induced expression and antiviral activity of type I or type III interferon depend on the type of infected epithelial cell
Authors: Yin Yue , Ma Jinglin , Van Waesberghe Cliff , Devriendt Bert , Favoreel Herman W.
Published: November 2022

Type I and III Interferons (IFNs) are the initial antiviral cytokines produced in response to virus infection. These IFNs in turn bind to their respective receptors, trigger JAK-STAT signaling and induce the expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) to engage antiviral functions. Unlike the receptor for type I IFNs, which is broadly expressed, the expression of the type III IFN receptor is mainly confined to epithelial cells that line mucosal surfaces. Accumulating evidence has shown that type III IFNs may play a unique role in protecting mucosal surfaces against viral challenges. The porcine alphaherpesvirus pseudorabies virus (PRV) causes huge economic losses to the pig industry worldwide. PRV first replicates in the respiratory tract, followed by spread via neurons and via lymph and blood vessels to the central nervous system and internal organs, e.g. the kidney, lungs and intestinal tract. In this study, we investigate whether PRV triggers the expression of type I and III IFNs and whether these IFNs exert antiviral activity against PRV in different porcine epithelial cells: porcine kidney epithelial cells (PK-15), primary respiratory epithelial cells (PoREC) and intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). We show that PRV triggers a multiplicity of infection-dependent type I IFN response and a prominent III IFN response in PK-15 cells, a multiplicity of infection-dependent expression of both types of IFN in IPEC-J2 cells and virtually no expression of either IFN in PoREC. Pretreatment of the different cell types with equal amounts of porcine IFN-λ3 (type III IFN) or porcine IFN-α (type I IFN) showed that IFN-α, but not IFN-λ3, suppressed PRV replication and spread in PK-15 cells, whereas the opposite was observed in IPEC-J2 cells and both types of IFN showed anti-PRV activity in PoREC cells, although the antiviral activity of IFN-α was more potent than that of IFN-λ3 in the latter cell type. In conclusion, the current data show that PRV-induced type I and III IFN responses and their antiviral activity depend to a large extent on the epithelial cell type used, and for the first time show that type III IFN displays antiviral activity against PRV in epithelial cells from the respiratory and particularly the intestinal tract.
SARS-CoV-2 infected children form early immune memory responses dominated by nucleocapsid-specific CD8+ T cells and antibodies
Authors: Lima Karina , Fontoura Julia C. , de Souza Priscila Oliveira , Fazolo Tiago , Hilario Gabriel , Zorzetto Renata , Rodrigues Junior Luiz C , Coimbra Lais D. , Borin Alexandre , Bispo-dos-Santos Karina , Granja Fabiana , Marques Rafael Elias , Zavaglia Gabriela Oliveira , Fernandes Ingrid Rodrigues , Varela Fernanda Hammes , Polese-Bonatto Marcia , Tonini Maiko Luís , Ikeda do Carmo Greice Madeleine , de Almeida Walquiria Aparecida Ferreira , Borges Thiago J. , Nakaya Helder I. , Proenca-Modena José Luiz , Callegari-Jacques Sidia Maria , Scotta Marcelo Comerlato , Stein Renato T. , Bonorino Cristina
Published: November 2022

This is the third year of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and yet most children remain unvaccinated. COVID-19 in children manifests as mostly mild or asymptomatic, however high viral titers and strong cellular and humoral responses are observed upon acute infection. It is still unclear how long these responses persist, and if they can protect from re-infection and/or disease severity. Here, we analyzed immune memory responses in a cohort of children and adults with COVID-19. Important differences between children and adults are evident in kinetics and profile of memory responses. Children develop early N-specific cytotoxic T cell responses, that rapidly expand and dominate their immune memory to the virus. Children’s anti-N, but not anti-S, antibody titers increase over time. Neutralization titers correlate with N-specific antibodies and CD8+T cells. However, antibodies generated by infection do not efficiently cross-neutralize variants Gamma or Delta. Our results indicate that mechanisms that protect from disease severity are possibly different from those that protect from reinfection, bringing novel insights for pediatric vaccine design. They also underline the importance of vaccination in children, who remain at risk for COVID-19 despite having been previously infected.
Polymorphisms in the hypervariable control region of the mitochondrial DNA differentiate BPH populations
Authors: Anand Rashi , Singh S. Priyokumar , Sahu Nihar , Singh Y. Tunginba , Mazumdar-Leighton Sudeshna , Bentur J. S. , Nair Suresh
Published: November 2022

The brown planthopper (BPH; Nilaparvata lugens) is one of India’s most destructive pests of rice. BPH, a monophagous migratory insect, reported from all major rice-growing ecosystems of the country, is capable of traversing large distances and causing massive crop loss. A crucial step for developing viable management strategies is understanding its population dynamics. Very few reliable markers are currently available to screen BPH populations for their diversity. In the current investigation, we developed a combinatorial approach using the polymorphism present within the mitochondrial Control Region of BPH and in the nuclear genome (genomic simple sequence repeats; gSSRs) to unravel the diversity present in BPH populations collected from various rice-growing regions of India. Using two specific primer pairs, the complete Control Region (1112 to 2612 bp) was PCR amplified as two overlapping fragments, cloned and sequenced from BPH individuals representing nine different populations. Results revealed extensive polymorphism within this region due to a variable number of tandem repeats. The three selected gSSR markers also exhibited population-specific amplification patterns. Overall genetic diversity between the nine populations was high (>5%). Further, in silico double-digestion of the consensus sequences of the Control Region, with HpyCH4IV and Tsp45I restriction enzymes, revealed unique restriction fragment length polymorphisms (digital-RFLPs; dRFLPs) that differentiated all the nine BPH populations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of markers developed from the Control Region of the BPH mitogenome that can differentiate populations. Eventually, such reliable and rapid marker-based identification of BPH populations will pave the way for an efficient pest management strategy.
Synergetic effect of temperature and humidity on the leakage of KOH electrolyte and related reliability of zinc-air batteries
Authors: Rao Jyothsna Murli , Yadav Abhijeet , Conseil-Gudla Helene , Ambat Rajan
Published: November 2022

The Zinc-air primary batteries (ZAB’s) are prone to electrolyte leakage upon exposure to high temperature and humidity conditions. Potassium hydroxide is a hygroscopic and corrosive compound and it can cause various electrochemical corrosion failures for the attached electronics inside a device. In this study, the effect of temperature and humid conditions on the leakage of Potassium hydroxide electrolyte from three different Zinc Air Battery variants were investigated. The batteries were exposed to hot and humid conditions, and a qualitative Gel test with pH indicator was used to visually observe the leakage from the individual set of battery variants. The residues of the released electrolyte was identified by FTIR and quantified using a titration method. SEM-EDS analysis was also performed to examine the surface of the batteries and sealants for eventual damage. The related effect of electrolyte leakage on the reliability of the batteries was performed by a voltage discharge test. The hygroscopicity properties of pure Potassium hydroxide were studied using a water sorption/desorption equipment and was correlated with electro impedance spectroscopy analysis using an interdigitated test board. The results from the study indicate that the increase in temperature caused an increased amount of electrolyte leakage under saturated humid conditions. Leakage of Potassium hydroxide electrolyte caused damage to the sealant gasket, clogged the oxygen ventilation holes of the batteries, and exhibits high hygroscopic properties when exposed to high temperature and humid conditions.
Analysis of magnetic resonance splectroscopy characteristics in patients with type 2 diabetes complicated with stroke
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Ying , Peng Gang , Liang Wenwen , Chen Jie , Chen Kai , Yang Xiaodan , Jiang Jiehui , Huang Bingcang
Published: November 2022

In this study, we investigated the metabolism of white matter by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in stroke complicated with diabetes mellitus in combination with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbAlc) detection and clinical neurological deficit score (NIHSS). Fifty-three patients with stroke within 24 h after onset were collected and scanned by MRS. The biochemical, clinical and imaging characteristics of patients were analyzed. Patients were divided into three groups according to HbAlc levels: Good glycemic control (A): < 6.5%; satisfactory glycemic control (B): 6.5–7.5% and poor glycemic control (C): > 7.5%. The results showed that HbA1c levels were positively correlated with NIHSS in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). There is significant difference in NAA/Cr between the infarcted site of the three groups and the mirror site. HbA1C level was negatively correlated with NAA/Cr in patients with AIS, and there was no significant correlation between NIHSS score and NAA/Cr. The data above demonstrated that the MRS imaging can be used to explain the adverse effects of hyperglycated hemoglobin on brain parenchyma from the perspective of imaging. This imaging technique and clinical NIHSS score have a high consistency in evaluating stroke.
Salivary mental stress biomarkers in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Deneva Tanya , Ianakiev Youri , Boykinova Oliana
Published: November 2022

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health disorders and level of stress show a major increase compared to before the pandemic. Coronavirus-related stress is recently the leading cause of negative impacts on global mental health. Thus, maintaining positive mental health is as important as maintaining physical health during COVID-19. The aim of this study was to analyze salivary mental stress biomarkers as cortisol, alpha-amylase, and chromogranin A in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 to compare their potential relationship with stress symptoms.

Material and methods

A total of 80 adult hospitalized patients with moderate COVID-19 disease and a control group (n = 80) randomly selected were conducted as participants. Saliva cortisol (sCort), saliva alpha-amylase (sAA), and saliva and chromogranin A (sCgA) were determined by the ELISA method (Bio Vendor, USA). Symptoms of stress were measured with a stress symptom checklist (SSCL).

Results

The patients group presented significantly higher levels of sCort, sAA, and sCgA compared with the control group. The correlation analysis showed a positive correlation with strong strength between sCort and sAA (r = 0.934, p < 0.01), as well as sAA with sCgA (r = 0.714, p < 0.01). A moderate positive correlation was found between sCort with sCgA (r = 0.618, p < 0.05). Based on their stress scores from the SSCL the patients were associated with high stress level (30.00%) and very high stress levels (67.5%). In terms of the controls, all the participants showed a low to moderate stress level. We found significant positive correlation between levels of stress and salivary biomarkers.

Conclusion

Data from our study demonstrated that salivary biomarkers are promising tools of exploring COVID-19 related stress.
Phytoplankton cell size control can be affected by photosynthetic light energy utilization
Authors: Li Wanzhu , Wang Baoli , Xiao Jing , Yang Meiling , Xu Sheng , Liu Cong-Qiang
Published: November 2022

Phytoplankton cell size is well known as an essential functional trait, but its control factors are still unclear. Considering light provides the necessary energy for phytoplankton survival, we hypothesized that photosynthetic light energy utilization could influence phytoplankton cell size control. Several scenarios were conducted to understand the relationship between Fv/Fm and cell size for phytoplankton interspecies, and metatranscriptome in the field and transcriptome in the laboratory were used to understand relevant molecular mechanisms. The results indicated that there was a universal significant positive relationship between Fv/Fm and cell volume in general. The molecular evidence demonstrated that light utilization by phytoplankton regulates their cell size by harmonizing the generation and allocation of chemical energy and fixed carbon in the cell. Phytoplankton cell size would cease to enlarge once the increased light energy conversion and subsequent fixed carbon could no longer satisfy the increasing demand of size enlargement. This unity of energy and matter in shaping phytoplankton size results in cell size being an important functional trait. This study is the first to discover the above molecular mechanisms and is helpful to deepen the understanding on the cell size control of phytoplankton.
Circulating soluble CD36 as a novel biomarker for progression and prognosis of HBV-related liver diseases
Authors: Cai Chunxian , Xiao Anhua , Luo Xiaoqing , Zheng Enze , Li Yiyu , Lei Yu , Zhong Shan , Chen Yaxi , Yang Ping , Tang Zhurong , Zhou Zhi
Published: November 2022

Background

Our previous study suggested CD36 may be a positive regulator of hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication in vitro. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether circulating soluble CD36 (sCD36) could serve as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for HBV-related liver diseases based on the clinic collected data.

Methods

A total of 282 subjects were divided into healthy controls (HC, n = 47), chronic hepatitis B (CHB, n = 68), HBV-related liver cirrhosis (HBV-LC, n = 167). Soluble CD36 in plasma was measured by ELISA, and monocyte or platelet CD36 expression was determined by flow cytometry.

Results

There was a step-wise increase of sCD36 with the progression of chronic HBV infection, and it was the highest in the HBV- LC group with liver failure (1.50, IQR:1.04–2.00) as compared with HC (0.38, IQR:0.27–0.38), CHB (0.75, IQR:0.40–1.13), and HBV-LC without liver failure (1.02, IQR,0.61–1.35) group. Circulating sCD36 was not correlated with serum HBV DNA levels, but correlated with liver function parameters. Additionally, ROC analysis confirmed sCD36 could be used to predict liver failure for HBV-LC patients, which yielded an AUC of 0.775 with 71.0% sensitivity and 72.2% specificity. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed sCD36 is an independent risk factor in predicting liver failure. Moreover, plasma sCD36 in HBV-LC patients was significantly correlated with prognostic indices, including MELD, MELD-Na and CHILD-PUGH scores. On the other hand, CD36 expression on monocytes or platelets was positively correlated with plasma sCD36 levels, whereas they were not strongly associated with the disease severity.

Conclusion

Circulating sCD36 could be used as a novel noninvasive biomarker for predicting liver failure and prognosis in chronic HBV infected patients.
HIV-infected patients rarely develop invasive fungal diseases under good immune reconstitution after ART regardless high prevalence of pathogenic filamentous fungi carriage in nasopharynx/oropharynx
Authors: Chen Xiaoman , Cao Yi , Chen Meijun , Wang Haodi , Du Peishan , Li Hong , Zhong Huolin , Li Quanmin , Zhao Santao , Yao Zhenjiang , Chen Wanshan , Cai Weiping , Tang Xiaoping , Li Linghua
Published: November 2022

Purpose

We aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of filamentous fungi (FF) carriage in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients in Guangdong province, along with its subsequent incidence of invasive fungal disease (IFD).

Methods

Seven hundred and sixteen HIV-infected individuals from the outpatient clinic and 293 sex-matched healthy controls were recruited prospectively from May 1 to August 31, 2017. Fungi were isolated from oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal swabs, then identified by morphological and molecular biological techniques. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors of pathogenic FF carriage. Pathogenic FF carriers were followed up through the end of 2019.

Results

Of the 716 included HIV-infected patients, 602 (84.1%) were male, the median age was 34 (27–42) years, and the median CD4+ count was 385 (254–542) cells/μl. Pathogenic FF were isolated in 119 (16.6%) cases with HIV infection and 40 (13.7%) healthy controls. Mucorales were found in 3 HIV-infected individuals and Talaromyces marneffei in 2 HIV-infected individuals, but not in healthy controls. History of cured opportunistic infections (OIs; OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.23–3.13, p = 0.004), and smoking (OR, 1.55; 95%CI, 1.03–2.32, p = 0.035) were independent risk factors of pathogenic FF carriage in HIV-infected individuals. A total of 119 pathogenic FF carriers with HIV infection were followed. During follow-up, 119 (100%) cases received antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 28 months, 107 (90%) cases had CD4+ counts>200 cells/μl, and none developed IFD.

Discussion

Pathogenic FF carriage is common in HIV-infected individuals but may not develop IFD in those who achieved immune reconstitution. Smoking and cured OIs history increase the risk of pathogenic FF carriage. Smoking abstinence and ART adherence are especially important for these patients.
Ultra-early weaning alters growth performance, hematology parameters, and fecal microbiota in piglets with same genetic background
Authors: Dang De Xin , Li Cheng Ji , Li Shi Han , Fan Xin Yan , Xu Weiguo , Cui Yan , Li Desheng
Published: November 2022

Piglets with the same genetic background were used to investigate the effects of different lengths of suckling period on growth performance, hematology parameters, and fecal microbiota. All piglets were born by a sow (Landrace×Yorkshire). On day 14 postpartum, a total of 16 piglets [Duroc×(Landrace×Yorkshire)] with a similar initial body weight (2.48 ± 0.25 kg) were randomly assigned into two groups with four replicates per group, two pigs per replicate pen (one barrow and one gilt). On day 14 of age, experiment started, piglets from the first group were weaned (14W), whereas the others continued to receive milk until day 28 of age (28W). The experiment completed on day 70 of age, last 56 days. Growth performance parameters including body weight, average daily gain, feed intake, feed efficiency, and growth rate and hematology parameters including immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), albumin, globulin, and total protein were measured in this study. Additionally, a technique of 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze fecal microbiota for revealing how the changes in the lengths of suckling period on intestinal microbiota. We found that ultra-early weaning impaired growth performance of piglets, whose worse body weight, average daily gain, feed intake, feed efficiency, and growth rate were observed in 14W group at all measured timepoints in comparison with those in 28W group (P< 0.05). Moreover, higher contents of serum IgA (P= 0.028), IgG (P= 0.041), and IgM (P= 0.047), as well as lower contents of serum albumin (P= 0.002), albumin-to-globulin ratio (P= 0.003), and total protein (P= 0.004), were observed in 14W group in comparison with those in 28W group on day 28 of age, but not on day 70 of age. High-throughput pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA indicated that the intestinal microbiota richness in 14W group was lower than that in 28W group (P< 0.05); moreover, in comparison with 28W group at all sampling timepoints, fecal microbiota in 14W group showed more beneficial bacteria and fewer pathogenic bacteria (P< 0.05). Therefore, we considered that ultra-early weaning had positive effects on immune status and fecal microbiota composition in piglets, but negative effects on growth performance and fecal microbiota abundance.
The molecular biology of tubulinopathies: Understanding the impact of variants on tubulin structure and microtubule regulation
Authors: Hoff Katelyn J. , Neumann Andrew J. , Moore Jeffrey K.
Published: November 2022

Heterozygous, missense mutations in both α- and β-tubulin genes have been linked to an array of neurodevelopment disorders, commonly referred to as “tubulinopathies.” To date, tubulinopathy mutations have been identified in three β-tubulin isotypes and one α-tubulin isotype. These mutations occur throughout the different genetic domains and protein structures of these tubulin isotypes, and the field is working to address how this molecular-level diversity results in different cellular and tissue-level pathologies. Studies from many groups have focused on elucidating the consequences of individual mutations; however, the field lacks comprehensive models for the molecular etiology of different types of tubulinopathies, presenting a major gap in diagnosis and treatment. This review highlights recent advances in understanding tubulin structural dynamics, the roles microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) play in microtubule regulation, and how these are inextricably linked. We emphasize the value of investigating interactions between tubulin structures, microtubules, and MAPs to understand and predict the impact of tubulinopathy mutations at the cell and tissue levels. Microtubule regulation is multifaceted and provides a complex set of controls for generating a functional cytoskeleton at the right place and right time during neurodevelopment. Understanding how tubulinopathy mutations disrupt distinct subsets of those controls, and how that ultimately disrupts neurodevelopment, will be important for establishing mechanistic themes among tubulinopathies that may lead to insights in other neurodevelopment disorders and normal neurodevelopment.
The Innovative Medicines Initiative neurodegeneration portfolio: From individual projects to collaborative networks
Authors: O'Rourke Diana , Coll-Padrós Nina , Bradshaw Angela , Killin Lewis , Pradier Laurent , Georges Jean , Dawoud Dalia M. , Steukers Lennert , Diaz Carlos
Published: November 2022

The IMI public-private partnership between the European Commission and the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) was launched in 2008 with an initial budget of €2 billion. Aiming to accelerate the development of innovative medicines for areas of unmet clinical need, the IMI has committed over €380 million to projects on neurodegenerative disorders (NDD), catalyzing public-private collaborations at scale and at all stages of the R&D pipeline. Because of this vast investment, research on neurodegenerative diseases has made enormous strides in recent decades. The challenge for the future however remains to utilize this newly found knowledge and generated assets to develop better tools and novel therapeutic strategies. Here, we report the results of an integrated programme analysis of the IMI NDD portfolio, performed by the Neuronet Coordination and Support Action. Neuronet was launched by the IMI in 2019 to boost synergies and collaboration between projects in the IMI NDD portfolio, to increase the impact and visibility of research, and to facilitate interactions with related initiatives worldwide. Our analysis assessed the characteristics, structure and assets of the project portfolio and identifies lessons from projects spanning preclinical research to applied clinical studies and beyond. Evaluation of project parameters and network analyses of project partners revealed a complex web of 236 partnering organizations, with EFPIA partners often acting as connecting nodes across projects, and with a great diversity of academic institutions. Organizations in the UK, Germany, France and the Netherlands were highly represented in the portfolio, which has a strong focus on clinical research in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease in particular. Based on surveys and unstructured interviews with NDD research leaders, we identified actions to enhance collaboration between project partners, by improving the structure and definition of in-kind contributions; reducing administrative burdens; and enhancing the exploitation of outcomes from research investments by EU taxpayers and EFPIA. These recommendations could help increase the efficiency and impact of future public-private partnerships on neurodegeneration.