bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remote sensing identification of shallow landslide based on improved otsu algorithm and multi feature threshold
Authors: Ren Jing , Wang Jiakun , Chen Rui , Li Hong , Xu Dongli , Yan Lihua , Song Jingyuan
Published: September 2024

In low-resolution remote sensing images under complex lighting conditions, there is a similarity in spectral characteristics between non-landslide areas and landslide bodies, which increases the probability of misjudgment in the identification process of shallow landslide bodies. In order to further improve the accuracy of landslide identification, a shallow landslide remote sensing identification method based on an improved Otsu algorithm and multi-feature threshold is proposed for the temporary treatment project of the Yangjunba disaster site in Leshan City. Using Retinex theory, remote sensing images are enhanced with local linear models and guided filtering; then, multi-feature scales and sliding window calculations of opening and closing transformations identify potential landslide areas, which are finally segmented using the Otsu algorithm. Through experimental verification, the method proposed in this article can clearly segment the target object and background after binary segmentation of remote sensing images. The recognition rate of shallow landslide bodies is not less than 95%, indicating that the method proposed in this article is relatively accurate in identifying shallow landslide bodies in the research area and has good application effects.
Appendage pigmentation and temperature acclimation correlate with survival during acute heat stress in the upside-down jellyfish, Cassiopea xamachana
Authors: Maloney Megan E. , Buckley Katherine M. , Strader Marie E.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea sp.) are highly tolerant to multiple abiotic stressors, including fluctuating temperatures associated with shallow marine habitats. This resilience may underlie the ability of Cassiopea sp. to inhabit a wide variety of tropical habitats across the globe. Additionally, Cassiopea sp. are marked by a conspicuous array of appendage coloration; individual medusae vary in the hue and number of oral appendages, which are often strikingly blue. The function of this coloration is not understood. We aimed to understand how extrinsic (temperature, location) and intrinsic (host color) factors may shape thermal tolerance.

Methods

Adult Cassiopea xamachana were collected from two sites that vary in daily temperature range within the Florida Keys and were subjected to acute lethal heat stress. To quantify a whole-organism response to heat, we measured changes in bell pulsation, which likely plays a role in feeding, oxygen exchange, and symbiont uptake. Finally, color morphs were acclimated at either ambient (26°C) or elevated (33°C) temperatures.

Results

C. xamachana from two locations that vary in thermal range do not exhibit different responses to heat, suggesting that temperature fluctuations do not prime individuals for higher thermal tolerance. Additionally, C. xamachana with blue appendages survived significantly higher temperatures and exhibited less change in bell pulsation rates compared to non-blue individuals. We found that acclimation at 33°C, as well as appendage color in each treatment, led to higher survival under acute heat stress.

Discussion

These findings highlight the importance of temperature and coloration in Cassiopea xamachana resilience during heat stress.
Platinum-based chemotherapy promotes antigen presenting potential in monocytes of patients with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Larionova Irina , Iamshchikov Pavel , Kazakova Anna , Rakina Militsa , Menyalo Maxim , Enikeeva Kadriia , Rafikova Guzel , Sharifyanova Yuliya , Pavlov Valentin , Villert Alisa , Kolomiets Larisa , Kzhyshkowska Julia
Published: September 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy worldwide. The major clinical challenge includes the asymptomatic state of the disease, making diagnosis possible only at advanced stages. Another OC complication is the high relapse rate and poor prognosis following the standard first-line treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy. At present, numerous clinical trials are being conducted focusing on immunotherapy in OC; nevertheless, there are still no FDA-approved indications. Personalized decision regarding the immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint blockade and immune cell–based immunotherapies, can depend on the effective antigen presentation required for the cytotoxic immune response. The major aim of our study was to uncover tumor-specific transcriptional and epigenetic changes in peripheral blood monocytes in patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Another key point was to elucidate how chemotherapy can reprogram monocytes and how that relates to changes in other immune subpopulations in the blood. To this end, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with HGSOC who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapeutic treatment (NACT) and in treatment-naïve patients. Monocyte cluster was significantly affected by tumor-derived factors as well as by chemotherapeutic treatment. Bioinformatical analysis revealed three distinct monocyte subpopulations within PBMCs based on feature gene expression – CD14.Mn.S100A8.9hi, CD14.Mn.MHC2hi and CD16.Mn subsets. The intriguing result was that NACT induced antigen presentation in monocytes by the transcriptional upregulation of MHC class II molecules, but not by epigenetic changes. Increased MHC class II gene expression was a feature observed across all three monocyte subpopulations after chemotherapy. Our data also demonstrated that chemotherapy inhibited interferon-dependent signaling pathways, but activated some TGFb-related genes. Our results can enable personalized decision regarding the necessity to systemically re-educate immune cells to prime ovarian cancer to respond to anti-cancer therapy or to improve personalized prescription of existing immunotherapy in either combination with chemotherapy or a monotherapy regimen.
Case report: Systemic multi-organ involvement in an adult-onset immunodeficiency patient infected with Talaromyces marneffei
Authors: Li Kun , Zhang Yuping , Zhang Dan , Chen Qing , Fang Xueling
Published: September 2024

Adult-onset immunodeficiency (AOID) mediated by anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies (AIGA) is a rare condition, particularly prevalent in Southeast Asia and southern China. We present a case study of a 62-year-old female with AOID who developed a severe pulmonary infection caused by Talaromyces marneffei (TM), leading to acute respiratory failure, generalized rash, multiple lymphadenopathies, bone destruction, and a mediastinal mass. Treatment included mechanical ventilation, antifungal medication, and corticosteroids, resulting in complete recovery and discharge. This case underscores the challenges of managing complex infections in AOID patients and highlights the importance of early diagnosis through metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and appropriate intervention to improve clinical outcomes.
The potential of autologous regulatory T cell (Treg) therapy to prevent Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy (CAV) in paediatric heart transplant recipients
Authors: Aiyengar Apoorva , Romano Marco , Burch Michael , Lombardi Giovanna , Fanelli Giorgia
Published: September 2024

Paediatric heart transplant is an established treatment for end stage heart failure in children, however patients have to commit to lifelong medical surveillance and adhere to daily immunosuppressants to minimise the risk of rejection. Compliance with immunosuppressants can be burdensome with their toxic side effects and need for frequent blood monitoring especially in children. Though the incidence of early rejection episodes has significantly improved overtime, the long-term allograft health and survival is determined by Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy (CAV) which affects a vast number of post-transplant patients. Once CAV has set in, there is no medical or surgical treatment to reverse it and graft survival is significantly compromised across all age groups. Current treatment strategies include novel immunosuppressant agents and drugs to lower blood lipid levels to address the underlying immunological pathophysiology and to manage traditional cardiac risk factors. Translational researchers are seeking novel immunological approaches that can lead to permanent acceptance of the allograft such as using regulatory T cell (Tregs) immunotherapy. Clinical trials in the setting of graft versus host disease, autoimmunity and kidney and liver transplantation using Tregs have shown the feasibility and safety of this strategy. This review will summarise current knowledge of the latest clinical therapies for CAV and pre-clinical evidence in support of Treg therapy for CAV. We will also discuss the different Treg sources and the considerations of translating this into a feasible immunotherapy in clinical practice in the paediatric population.
Transcriptional re-programming of liver-resident iNKT cells into T-regulatory type-1-like liver iNKT cells involves extensive gene de-methylation
Authors: Montaño Javier , Garnica Josep , Yamanouchi Jun , Moro Joel , Solé Patricia , Mondal Debajyoti , Serra Pau , Yang Yang , Santamaria Pere
Published: September 2024

Unlike conventional CD4+ T cells, which are phenotypically and functionally plastic, invariant NKT (iNKT) cells generally exist in a terminally differentiated state. Naïve CD4+ T cells can acquire alternative epigenetic states in response to different cues, but it remains unclear whether peripheral iNKT cells are epigenetically stable or malleable. Repetitive encounters of liver-resident iNKT cells (LiNKTs) with alpha-galactosylceramide (αGalCer)/CD1d-coated nanoparticles (NPs) can trigger their differentiation into a LiNKT cell subset expressing a T regulatory type 1 (TR1)-like (LiNKTR1) transcriptional signature. Here we dissect the epigenetic underpinnings of the LiNKT-LiNKTR1 conversion as compared to those underlying the peptide-major histocompatibility complex (pMHC)-NP-induced T-follicular helper (TFH)-to-TR1 transdifferentiation process. We show that gene upregulation during the LINKT-to-LiNKTR1 cell conversion is associated with demethylation of gene bodies, inter-genic regions, promoters and distal gene regulatory elements, in the absence of major changes in chromatin exposure or deposition of expression-promoting histone marks. In contrast, the naïve CD4+ T cell-to-TFH differentiation process involves extensive remodeling of the chromatin and the acquisition of a broad repertoire of epigenetic modifications that are then largely inherited by TFH cell-derived TR1 cell progeny. These observations indicate that LiNKT cells are epigenetically malleable and particularly susceptible to gene de-methylation.
Mitigation effects of plant carbon black on intestinal morphology, inflammation, antioxidant status, and microbiota in piglets challenged with deoxynivalenol
Authors: Wu Jie , Wang Hanyang , Liao Jianling , Ke Linfu , Lu Deqiu , Deng Bo , Xu Ziwei
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Plant carbon black (PCB) is a new feed additive for zearalenone adsorption in China. However, information regarding whether PCB can effectively absorb deoxynivalenol (DON) is limited.

Methods

To explore this research gap, the present study examined the adsorption effectiveness of DON by PCB using a phosphate buffer, artificial gastric juice, and artificial intestinal juice. In a 21-day in vivo trial, 48 male piglets were randomly assigned to four treatment groups: (1) uncontaminated basal diet (CTR), (2) basal diet supplemented with 1 mg/kg PCB(PCB), (3) 2.3 mg/kg DON-contaminated diet (DON), and (4) 2.3 mg/kg DON-contaminated diet supplemented with 0.1% PCB (DON+PCB).

Results

When DON concentration was 1 µg/mL, the adsorption rate of PCB on DON in phosphate buffer systems (pH 2.0 and 6.0) and the artificial gastric and intestinal juices were 100%, 100%, 71.46%, and 77.20%, respectively. In the in vivo trial, the DON group significantly increased the DON+deepoxy-deoxynivalenol (DOM-1) content in serum as well as the inflammation cytokine proteins (interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α) and mRNA expression of interleukin-6 and longchain acyl-CoA synthetase 4 in the jejunum and ileum. It decreased the villus height, goblet cells, mucosal thickness, and mRNA expression of Claudin-1 compared to the CTR group. In addition, DON decreased the Shannon and Simpson indices; reduced the relative abundances of Firmicutes, Lactobacillus, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, and Ruminococcus; and increased the relative abundances of Terrisporobacter and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 in the cecal content.

Discussion

In conclusion, these results suggest that PCB showed high adsorption efficacy on DON in vitro, and exhibit the protective effects against various intestinal toxicity manifestations in DON-challenged piglets.
Dengue vaccine endgame: why has the global response to exponential demand in the tropics been so slow?
Authors: Possas Cristina , Marques Ernesto T. A. , Oliveira Alessandra , Schumacher Suzanne , Antunes Adelaide , Homma Akira
Published: September 2024

Introduction

There has been a dramatic global surge in dengue fever (DF) in recent years, with a projected 100-400 million cases annually and large outbreaks expected every 3-4 years. This concerning scenario is in sharp contrast to the very low availability of dengue vaccines to meet this spiraling demand, particularly affecting developing countries in Latin America and Africa. In our study, we aim to identify current vaccine development constraints, from a technological perspective, based on clinical trials and patent landscape data.

Methods

This study was conducted in a two-step methodology. First, candidates and launched products and methods used in the development or as part of DF vaccines were identified from the Cortellis Drug Discovery Intelligence (CDDI) platform. Second, the Derwent Innovation database was used to retrieve patent documents related to dengue vaccines. Data were collected in the period 2014-2024 (to identify the candidate and or launched vaccines) and 2018-2022 (to identify patent documents) with claims involving applications for dengue vaccine development. We presented these descriptive data in the following format: quantitative and qualitative assessments describing the vaccine development scenario and the claimed vaccine technologies.

Results

Our study indicated that 65% of dengue vaccines are still in phase 1 of development. The few current dengue vaccines that have reached phase 3 (1) and launched (2) have shown limited levels of individual protection for one or more dengue serotypes and there is an anemic pipeline of the next generation of more effective tetravalent dengue vaccines. Although the intelligent use of multiple dengue vaccine formulations in immunization campaigns can result in effective protection against all serotypes at the population level, the implementation of this is complex and challenging. The results of our study thus provide evidence of a worrisome global situation regarding the development of new dengue vaccine candidates.

Conclusion

To reverse this scenario, there is an urgent need to implement new knowledge governance approaches and business models to stimulate an exponential increase in global vaccine development funding for dengue and several other vaccines.
Successful treatment of MAP2K1 mutant stage IV-M1d melanoma with trametinib plus low-dose dabrafenib: a case report
Authors: Dirven Iris , Calliauw Evan , Awada Gil , Vounckx Manon , Kessels Jolien I. , Neyns Bart
Published: September 2024

Clonal MAPK-pathway activating mutations in the MAP2K1 (MEK1) gene are present in approximately 9% of cutaneous melanomas. These mutations are divided into three classes: RAF-dependent, RAF-regulated, RAF-independent. Cell lines with class-2 or RAF-regulated MAP2K1-mutations are most responsive to MEK-inhibitors. We present a patient with a class-2 MAP2K1-mutant stage IV-M1d melanoma who experienced extra- and intracranial progressive disease following treatment with immune-checkpoint inhibitors. The patient was treated with the MEK-inhibitor trametinib (2 mg OD) to which a low-dose of dabrafenib (50 mg BID) was added to mitigate skin-toxicity. Following documentation of a partial response (PR), she developed one new, and increase in volume of two pre-existing brain metastases that were treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) while continuing trametinib and dabrafenib. Thereafter, a deep partial radiologic and metabolic response both extra-and intra-cranially was achieved and is ongoing 88 weeks after initiating trametinib. She experienced no grade > 2 adverse events. Focal post-radiation necrosis at site of an irradiated brain metastasis developed 9 months after SRS and is successfully being treated with low-dose bevacizumab. This is the first published case of a durable intracranial disease control with the MEK-inhibitor trametinib of a stage IV-M1d class-2 MAP2K1-mutant melanoma. This illustrates the utility of NGS profiles that include class-1/2 MAP2K1-mutations in patients with melanoma and other malignancies to provide valuable information on a potentially active individualized treatment option. A prospective clinical trial that further evaluates the efficacy of MEK-inhibitor therapies in MAP2K1-mutated tumors is justified.
Isolation, genomic analysis and functional characterization of Enterococcus rotai CMTB-CA6, a putative probiotic strain isolated from a medicinal plant Centella asiatica
Authors: Kim Yunsik , Lee Jin Hee , Ha Jimyeong , Cho Eun-Gyung
Published: September 2024

Probiotics and their derivatives offer significant health benefits by supporting digestive health, boosting the immune system, and regulating the microbiomes not only of the internal gastrointestinal track but also of the skin. To be effective, probiotics and their derivatives must exhibit robust antimicrobial activity, resilience to adverse conditions, and colonization capabilities in host tissues. As an alternative to animal-derived probiotics, plant-derived lactic acid bacteria (LAB) present promising advantages, including enhanced diversity and tolerance to challenging environments. Our study focuses on exploring the potential of plant-derived LAB, particularly from the medicinal plant Centella asiatica, in improving skin conditions. Through a bacterial isolation procedure from C. asiatica leaves, Enterococcus rotai CMTB-CA6 was identified via 16S rRNA sequencing, whole genome sequencing, and bioinformatic analyses. Based on genomic analysis, antimicrobial-resistance and virulence genes were not detected. Additionally, the potential functions of E. rotai CMTB-CA6 were characterized by its lysates’ ability to regulate skin microbes, such as stimulating the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis while inhibiting that of Cutibacterium acnes, to restore the viability of human dermal fibroblasts under inflammatory conditions, and to demonstrate effective antioxidant activities both in a cell-free system and in human dermal fibroblasts. Our investigation revealed the efficacy of E. rotai CMTB-CA6 lysates in improving skin conditions, suggesting its potential use as a probiotic-derived agent for skin care products. Considering the ecological relationship between plant-inhabited bacteria and their host plants, we suggest that the utilization of E. rotai CMTB-CA6 strain for fermenting its host plant, C. asiatica, could be a novel approach to efficiently enriching bioactive molecules for human health benefits.
Raw meat diets are a major risk factor for carriage of third-generation cephalosporin-resistant and multidrug-resistant E. coli by dogs in the UK
Authors: Morgan Genever , Pinchbeck Gina , Haldenby Sam , Schmidt Vanessa , Williams Nicola
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Raw-meat diets (RMD) for dogs, comprising unprocessed or non-heat-treated animal material, are increasingly popular. However, RMDs have been demonstrated to be contaminated with antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria, and there is concern that such diets may pose a zoonotic disease risk. Additionally, dogs fed RMD may shed more AMR- fecal bacteria compared to those fed conventional cooked diets. Data from the UK remain limited; the present study investigated the presence of AMR-Escherichia coli in the feces of RMD and non-RMD (NRMD)-fed dogs in the UK, the E. coli AMR gene complement, and the lifestyle risk factors associated with AMR- E. coli carriage.

Methods

Fecal samples from UK-owned dogs (N = 193 RMD, N = 239 NRMD) and questionnaires discussing lifestyle factors, were obtained between October 2020-August 2021. Samples underwent culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing to determine the presence of AMR-E. coli. Whole genome sequencing determined AMR gene carriage. Risk factors for the presence of AMR-E. coli were determined by multivariable modeling.

Results

RMD dogs carried significantly more fecal AMR E. coli (p < 0.001), including third-generation cephalosporin resistant, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing, and multidrug resistant isolates and multivariable modeling confirmed raw-meat diets to be a significant risk factor. The blaCTX–M–15 gene was the most frequently identified blaESBL gene. The blaCTX–M–55 and blaSHV–66 genes were also prevalent and were only found in RMD dogs. The mobile colistin resistance gene, mcr-4 was identified in one ESBL-producing E. coli isolate from a NRMD-fed dog.

Conclusion

This study has shown that dogs fed RMD in the UK are significantly more likely to shed E. coli which is resistant to highest priority critically important antibiotics, and multidrug resistant E. coli, than dogs fed NRMD. Additionally, AMR-E. coli isolates from RMD-fed dogs harbor multiple, diverse, and novel AMR genes. Therefore, provision of RMD to dogs could pose an important potential threat to human and animal health, especially given the close nature of the relationship many owners share with their pets. Awareness of these findings should be shared with pet owners, veterinary and medical professionals, pet food manufacturers and public health to mitigate potential risks.
Bacillus cereus CGMCC 1.60196: a promising bacterial inoculant isolated from biological soil crusts for maize growth enhancement
Authors: Zhao Lina , Kang Chenrui , Zhang Shipeng , Cui Linlin , Xu Shuaihua , Wang Yudong , Zhang Yue , Gu Shaobin
Published: September 2024

Soil microbial inoculants are widely recognized as an environmentally friendly strategy for promoting crop growth and increasing productivity. However, research on utilizing the microbial resources from desert biological soil crusts to enhance crop growth remains relatively unexplored. In the present work, a bacterial strain designated AC1-8 with high levels of amylase, protease, and cellulase activity was isolated from cyanobacterial crusts of the Tengger Desert and identified as Bacillus cereus (CGMCC 1.60196). The refinement of the fermentation parameters of B. cereus CGMCC 1.60196 determined that the most effective medium for biomass production was composed of 5 g/L glucose, 22 g/L yeast extract and 15 g/L MgSO4, and the optimal culture conditions were pH 6.0, temperature 37°C, inoculation quantity 3% and agitation speed 240 rpm. Furthermore, the utilization of B. cereus CGMCC 1.60196 has resulted in substantial improvements in various growth parameters of maize seedlings, including shoot length, shoot fresh and dry weights, root fresh and dry weights, and the contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and total chlorophyll. The most pronounced growth promotion was observed at an application concentration of 1 × 109 CFU/m2. These results suggest that the novel B. cereus strain, isolated from cyanobacterial crusts, can be regarded as an exemplary biological agent for soil improvement, capable of enhancing soil conditions, promoting crop cultivation and supporting food production.
Psychophysiological distinctions in emotional responding: sensitivity to perceiving loss of connection
Authors: Seah Lily , Friedman Bruce H.
Published: September 2024

Emotion involves oneself in relation to a subject of attention; e.g., sadness is to be sad about something/someone. This study examined emotional responses to perceiving a loss of connection from oneself. Evidence suggests that Europeans tend to perceive salient objects in the foreground, while East Asians are more likely to perceive holistically, considering the interrelationships between the context and the object. We studied how this distinction affected European Americans’ (EA) and Chinese Americans’ (CA) sensitivity to perceiving the loss of connection. Both groups were exposed to loss by playing Cyberball, a ball-tossing video game, and then watched a film clip on grief. We hypothesized that EA would respond with increasing heart rate (HR) variance around the mean when perceiving loss. CA were predicted to show no difference from controls. We also hypothesized that EA would feel sadder, in terms of decreased HR and increased respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), earlier during the film clip. In total, 53 subjects were recruited, of which 40 were EA (47.5% women, age 21.08 ± 1.94 years) and 13 were CA (61.5% women, age 21.05 ± 1.74 years); 25 subjects (19 EA, 6 CA) received 2 out of 48 balls tossed in Cyberball and the controls received 10. ECG, respiration, and facial electromyography (fEMG) data were acquired. The results during Cyberball showed that EA’s HR variance relative to baseline (HR SDc/b) had an upward trend on perceiving loss. Contrary to prediction, CA also showed higher levels of HR variance relative to baseline. The ANOVA of HR SDc/b revealed that the interaction effect of two factors, time and condition, was statistically significant (p = 0.009). However, as predicted, EA in the experimental condition had decreased HR and increased RSA, a sign of withdrawal in sadness, 30 to 60 s into the sad clip. fEMG data at the corrugator muscle revealed that EA activated higher peak intensity 5.5 s earlier than CA (increased 1.571 vs. 0.844). This difference, however, was not statistically significant. The evidence suggests that increased exposure to loss automatically led to increased HR variance in both groups even when subjects were informed that players were computer-generated. However, the effect was stronger on EA to increase their arousal and sensitivity to grief thereafter.
Validity and specificity of BOLD effects and their correction in 1H-fMRS
Authors: Just Nathalie
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to characterize blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) effects in proton magnetic resonance (1H-MR) spectra obtained during optogenetic activation of the rat forelimb cortex to correct and estimate the accurate changes in metabolite concentration.

Methods

For a more comprehensive understanding of BOLD effects detected with functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (fMRS) and to optimize the correction method, a 1 Hz line-narrowing effect was simulated. Then, proton functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-fMRS) data acquired using stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) at 9.4T in rats (n = 8) upon optogenetic stimulation of the primary somatosensory cortex were utilized. The data were analyzed using MATLAB routines and LCModel. Uncorrected and corrected 1H-MR spectra from the simulated and in vivo data were quantified and compared. BOLD-corrected difference spectra were also calculated and analyzed. Additionally, the effects of stimulated and non-stimulated water on the quantification of metabolite concentration swere investigated.

Results

Significant mean increases in water and N-acetylaspartate (NAA) peak heights (+1.1% and +4.5%, respectively) were found to be accompanied by decreased linewidths (−0.5 Hz and −2.8%) upon optogenetic stimulation. These estimates were used for further defining an accurate line-broadening (lb) factor. The usage of a non-data-driven lb introduced false-positive errors in the metabolite concentration change estimates, thereby altering the specificity of the findings. The water and metabolite BOLD contributions were separated using different water scalings within LCModel.

Conclusion

The linewidth-matching procedure using a precise lb factor remains the most effective approach for accurately quantifying small (±0.3 μmol/g) metabolic changes in 1H-fMRS studies. A simple and preliminary compartmentation of BOLD effects was proposed, but it will require validation.
Sarcopenia is associated with increased major adverse cardiovascular event incidence in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a prospective cohort study and mediation analysis
Authors: Jiang Lu , Wang Zitao , Yuan Mengxuan , Wang Weiping , Wu Buyun , Mao Huijuan
Published: September 2024

Background

Few studies have investigated the relationship between sarcopenia and the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), which are common complications in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. This study thus explored the association between sarcopenia and MACE in a prospective cohort with mediation analysis.

Methods

Adult MHD patients in Jiangdu People’s Hospital in December 2019 were screened. The exposure was sarcopenia, as defined by the 2019 Asian Working Group. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of MACE, defined as the composite of all-cause mortality or hospital admission with a primary diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure during a 3-year follow-up period. Multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to test the association between sarcopenia and subsequent MACE incidence. Mediation analyses were used to investigate whether potential mediators influenced the association between sarcopenia and MACE.

Results

Of the 230 patients enrolled, 57% were male, with a median age of 57 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 50 to 66), and a median dialysis vintage of 67 months (IQR: 32 to 119). The prevalence of sarcopenia was 45.2%. The presence of sarcopenia was significantly correlated with age (Spearman’s r = 0.47, p < 0.001), C-reactive protein (Spearman’s r = 0.13, p = 0.044), serum albumin (Spearman’s r = −0.22, p < 0.001), 25(OH) vitamin D (Spearman’s r = −0.26, p < 0.001), and coronary artery calcification score (Spearman’s r = 0.20, p = 0.002). Over the 3-year follow-up period, MACE were observed in 59/104 (56.7%) patients with sarcopenia and 38/126 (30.2%) patients without sarcopenia (log-rank p < 0.001). After accounting for potential confounders, patients with sarcopenia presented a 66% (4–168%, p = 0.035) increase in their risk of MACE incidence as compared to non-sarcopenic individuals. However, adjusted mediation analyses did not detect any indication of a causal mediation pathway linking the effects of sarcopenic status on coronary artery calcification score, C-reactive protein, serum albumin, or 25(OH) vitamin D levels to MACE outcomes. Conversely, sarcopenia exhibited a potential direct effect (average direct effect range: −1.52 to −1.37, all p < 0.05) on MACE incidence.

Conclusion

These results revealed that the presence of sarcopenia was associated with a higher incidence of MACE in MHD patients. The putative effects of sarcopenia on this cardiovascular endpoint are possibly not mediated by any causal pathways that include vascular calcification, inflammation, hypoalbuminemia, or vitamin D.
Efficacy of PARP inhibitors in advanced high-grade serous ovarian cancer according to BRCA domain mutations and mutation type
Authors: Buonaiuto Roberto , Neola Giuseppe , Caltavituro Aldo , Longobardi Alessandra , Mangiacotti Federica Pia , Cefaliello Amedeo , Lamia Maria Rosaria , Pepe Francesco , Ventriglia Jole , Malapelle Umberto , Troncone Giancarlo , Giuliano Mario , Arpino Grazia , Pignata Sandro , De Angelis Carmine
Published: September 2024

Objective

Preclinical studies have emphasized the potential connection between BRCA specific domains defects and the activity of Poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi). Nevertheless, real-world evidence regarding the impact of BRCA domain defects and mutations on PARPi efficacy are limited. The aim of his study was to evaluate the efficacy of PARPi in terms of progression free survival (PFS) according to BRCA domains defects and mutation types.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed among 79 BRCA mutated patients, diagnosed with advanced High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) who received first- and second-line platinum- based chemotherapy followed by PARPi maintenance treatment. PFS was evaluated according to BRCA1 [Really Interesting Gene (RING), DNA Binding (DBD), Serine Cluster (SCD), BRCA1 C-terminal (BRCT)] and BRCA2 [RAD-51 Domain (RAD-51 BD), DBD] specific domain defects and mutation types [missense (MS), nonsense (NS), frameshift (FS), splicing (S), or large rearrangements (LR)].

Results

After a median follow-up of 51 months, no significant difference in PFS was observed between the BRCA functional domains or mutation types in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 subgroups. Patients with BRCA2 DBD and RAD51-BD defects had the longest (39.8 months) and shortest (24.1 months) median PFS, respectively (p = 0.11). Additionally, patients with BRCA1 DBD defects had the greatest benefit (median PFS = 33.8 months) while those with BRCA1 RING domain mutations experienced the worst outcome (median PFS = 30.9 months (p = 0.43).

Conclusion

The efficacy of maintenance treatment with PARPi is independent by BRCA domain defects or mutation types. Patients DBD domain defects experienced numerically longer median PFS compared to those with other BRCA1/2 alterations.
Evidence summary on the rehabilitative management of dysphagia during radiotherapy for head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wan Hongwei , Zhu Yu , Wang Shuman , Zheng Mimi , Li Xiaoru
Published: September 2024

Objective

To retrieve, extract, integrate and evaluate evidence on the rehabilitation of dysphagia in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC), and to provide a basis for the development of a rehabilitation management protocol for dysphagia in patients undergoing radiotherapy for HNC.

Methods

An evidence-based systematic search of the literature related to the rehabilitation of dysphagia in patients with HNC during radiotherapy was conducted from January 2013 to March 2023, and the corresponding evaluation tools were selected according to the different types of literature for quality evaluation. “The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) evidence pre-grading system was used to evaluate the quality of the evidence.

Results

A total of 17 articles were included, including 3 guidelines, 5 expert articles, 1 clinical decision, 1 practice recommendation, 2 evidence summaries and 5 systematic evaluations. A final total of 28 pieces of evidence were summarised, including 6 areas of swallowing disorder screening and assessment, physiotherapy, preventive swallowing function training, feeding management, pain control, and oral care.

Conclusion

This study forms a multidisciplinary collaborative evidence summary for the rehabilitation management of dysphagia in patients undergoing radiotherapy for HNC, but the application of some of the evidence needs to be carried out in the context of the clinical setting and patient-specific circumstances for the rehabilitation evidence selected for patients’ dysphagia to improve their swallowing function and their swallowing-related quality of life and reduce the occurrence of related complications.
Non-enzymatic oxylipin production in a mudflat microphytobenthic biofilm: evidence of a diatom response to light
Authors: Doose Caroline , Oger Camille , Mas-Normand Lindsay , Durand Thierry , Hubas Cédric
Published: September 2024

Microphytobenthos (MPB) are a diatom-dominated microbial community of primary producers that inhabit mudflat sediments. The benthic diatoms display photo-protective strategies to face extreme light variations susceptible to generate cellular oxidative stress. However, oxidative stress induces the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that generate oxylipins—oxygenated metabolites of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) —which are among the known chemical mediators in diatoms. Non-enzymatically generated oxylipins known as “isoprostanoids” or “isofuranoids” are poorly studied in diatoms. To better understand the roles of the latter in migrational MPB light response, we investigated the effect of different irradiances corresponding to dark (D), low light (LL, 50 and 100 μmol. photons. m−2. s−1PAR), medium light (ML, 250 μmol. photons. m−2. s−1 PAR), and high light (HL, 500, 750, and 1000 μmol. photons. m−2. s−1 PAR) on isoprostanoid production by the biofilm’s organisms. The PUFA precursors of the varying oxylipins evidenced a diatom response to irradiance. Under 1000 PAR, the total amount of isoprotanoids increased, indicating an oxidative stress response. Isoprostanes (IsoPs) and prostaglandins (PGs) characterized HL conditions and evidenced lipid peroxidation, probably linked to the higher generation of ROS by photosynthesis. In contrast, phytoprostanes (PhytoPs) characterized LL and ML, where the ROS scavengers were probably not overwhelmed. This first investigation of non-enzymatic oxylipin production by a microphytobenthic biofilm under different irradiances highlighted the potential of exploring their possible signaling roles related to MPB light responses.
Genotype-specific morphophysiological adaptations and proline accumulation uncover drought adaptation complexity in hemp (Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica)
Authors: Mateva Kumbirai Ivyne , Mahenga Ein , Matibiri Terrence , Kamutando Casper Nyaradzai , Magama Frank , Dimbi Susan
Published: September 2024

Hemp, which has a wide range of industrial applications, has been marginalized due to its association with marijuana. This stigma has hindered research into improving its resilience to various stressors, resulting in underutilization and neglect. As cultivation expands globally, particularly in hot, dry regions of Africa, understanding drought stress mechanisms in hemp is crucial. This study investigates the drought adaptation mechanisms of three CBD flower hemp genotypes: Cannabis indica (MP) from Switzerland, Cannabis sativa (AQ) from South Africa, and Cannabis sativa (ZB) from Zimbabwe. Conducted under well-watered (WW-75% field capacity [FC]), mild drought (MD-40% FC), and severe drought (SD-0% FC) conditions, the research examines morphophysiological adaptations and proline accumulation in these genotypes, assessed 55 days after transplanting. Results revealed genotype-specific responses to watering regimes. MP demonstrated controlled water use and inherent drought tolerance, maintaining high assimilation rates (A) and superior photosynthetic performance (ΦPSII) under drought conditions. ZB maintained proline levels during drought recovery, suggesting optimized resource allocation and alternative stress-responsive mechanisms, while exhibiting effective morning water use and high non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) for photoprotection. AQ showed conservative water use strategies beneficial in water-limited environments. These findings provide a foundation for breeding programs aimed at developing robust and resilient hemp varieties suited to specific environmental conditions.
Social status mediates the propagation of unfairness
Authors: Kang Hyeran , Kim JuYoung , Kim Daeeun , Kim Hackjin
Published: September 2024

Fairness constitutes a cornerstone of social norms, emphasizing equal treatment and equitable distribution in interpersonal relationships. Unfair treatment often leads to direct responses and can spread to others through a phenomenon known as pay-it-forward (PIF) reciprocity. This study examined how unfairness spreads in interactions with new partners who have higher, equal, or lower status than the participants. In the present study, participants (N = 47, all Korean) were given either fair or unfair treatment in the first round of a dictator game. They then allocated monetary resources among partners positioned at various hierarchical levels in the second round. Our main goal was to determine if the severity of inequity inflicted on new partners was influenced by their hierarchical status. The results revealed an inclination among participants to act more generously towards partners of higher ranking despite prior instances of unfair treatment, whereas a tendency for harsher treatment was directed towards those with lower ranking. The interaction between the fairness in the first round (DG1) and the hierarchical status of the partner in the second round (DG2) was significant, indicating that the effect of previous fairness on decision-making differed depending on the ranking of the new partners. This study, therefore, validates the presence of unfairness PIF reciprocity within hierarchical contexts.
Understanding the shift to compulsion in addiction: insights from personality traits, social factors, and neurobiology
Authors: Su Haodong , Ye Tongtong , Cao Songyan , Hu Chunyan
Published: September 2024

Compulsion stands as a central symptom of drug addiction; however, only a small fraction of individuals who use drugs exhibit compulsive characteristics. Differences observed in Sign-trackers (ST) and Goal-trackers (GT) during Pavlovian conditioning may shed light on individual variances in drug addiction. Here, we focus on the behavioral attributes, formation processes, and neural mechanisms underlying ST and how they drive addiction toward compulsivity in humans. We will explore addiction from three interconnected levels: individual personality traits, social factors, and neurobiology. Furthermore, we distinguish between the processes of sensitization and habituation within ST. These nuanced distinctions across various aspects of addiction will contribute to our understanding of the addiction development process and the formulation of targeted preventive strategies.
Mild hunger elicits attentional desensitization to visual food cues in healthy, non-obese individuals
Authors: Schlezingerová Nicol , Málková Petra , Kocourek Martin , Telenský Petr
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Food is a vital human need, and the human visual system is finely tuned to detect and respond to food cues in the environment. The omnipresence of food cues across various settings has been linked to the prevalence of obesity in susceptible populations. However, the influence of the post-prandial state on visual attention to food stimuli remains poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate how a 12 hour fast affects visual attention to food and non-food stimuli in healthy, non-obese individuals.

Methods

Visual attention was assessed by measuring the total duration of visual fixations on stimuli presented on a computer screen, using a screen-based eye tracker (Tobii X2-60). Participants were divided into two groups: those who had fasted for 12 hours and those tested within two hours after consuming breakfast (satiated state). Additionally, performance on the Food Stroop task and electrodermal activity (EDA) responses were measured to evaluate attentional interference and physiological arousal, respectively. Salivary samples were also collected to assess levels of alpha-amylase and cortisol.

Results

Fasted participants exhibited a progressive decline in visual attention toward food stimuli compared to satiated individuals, reflecting a satiated state. This effect was independent of the palatability of the depicted food items and was not observed with stimuli representing non-food items. The Food Stroop task revealed no differences between fasting and satiated participants, indicating that the presence of food-related stimuli does not differentially impact attentional interference under varying hunger states. Moreover, no significant variations were observed in EDA responses across participant groups and stimulus types, suggesting that the modulation of visual attention to food cues by hunger is independent of physiological arousal. Interestingly, satiated subjects exhibited higher levels of salivary alpha-amylase, which was inversely related to their subjective hunger ratings. No differences in salivary cortisol levels were found between groups.

Discussion

The findings indicate a novel influence of mild hunger on the processing of visual food cues, independent of physiological arousal. The decline in visual attention to food stimuli in fasted individuals suggests that satiety modulates visual processing. The lack of differences in attentional interference and physiological arousal between fasting and satiated states further supports the notion that visual attention to food cues is primarily driven by hunger-related mechanisms rather than stress. Additionally, the inverse relationship between salivary alpha-amylase levels and hunger ratings implies that alpha-amylase may serve as a marker of satiety rather than stress.
Validation of behavioral measures of social cognition in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia
Authors: Rahamim Noa , Gilad Reut , Linkovski Omer , Bergman Hagai , Avirame Keren , Foul Yasmin Abo , Eitan Renana
Published: September 2024

Schizophrenia, a complex neuropsychiatric disorder, manifests severe impairments in social cognition, notably in Theory of Mind (ToM), empathy, and emotion recognition, which significantly influence social competence and overall functioning. These aspects are crucial for prognosis in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia (SZ). This study validates a comics strip paradigm for ToM and empathy assessment, the Montreal Affective Voices (MAV) for measuring emotion recognition, and a Go-NoGo task for inhibition control estimation in individuals diagnosed with SZ, comparing their performance with healthy controls. SZ participants exhibited diminished abilities in the comics strip task, especially in ToM and empathy conditions, alongside challenges in identifying emotions from vocal cues in MAV. They responded slower and tended to be less accurate in the Go-NoGo task. The validated behavioral battery addresses the limitations of previous measures and emerges as a promising tool for future investigations into the neural systems underlying social cognition in schizophrenia. Such insights can lead to the development of long-needed treatment for negative symptoms and social dysfunctions in schizophrenia.
Trait-level predictors of human performance outcomes in personnel engaged in stressful laboratory and field tasks
Authors: Brunyé Tad T. , Goring Sara Anne , Cantelon Julie A. , Eddy Marianna D. , Elkin-Frankston Seth , Elmore Wade R. , Giles Grace E. , Hancock Clifford L. , Masud Shoaib Bin , McIntyre James , McKenzie Kari L. , Mitchell K. Blake , O’Donovan Meghan P. , Racicot Kenneth , Ramsay John W.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Personnel performance under stress hinges on various factors, including individual traits, training, context, mental and physiological states, and task demands. This study explored the link between the traits of military personnel and their performance outcomes in five domains: move, shoot, communicate, navigate, and sustain.

Methods

A total of 387 U.S. Army soldiers participated in this study, undergoing trait assessments covering physical, cognitive, social–emotional, demographic/lifestyle, and health domains. Performance was measured through lab and field events assessing a broad range of individual and team-level skills under conditions demanding resilience to acute cognitive and physical stress exposure. Analysis used feature selection and elastic net regression.

Results

Analyses revealed complex associations between traits and performance, with physical, cognitive, health-related, social–emotional, and lifestyle traits playing roles in guiding and constraining performance. Measures of resilience, emotion regulation, grit, and mindfulness were identified as relevant predictors of several performance-related outcomes.

Discussion

Results carry implications for the selection, training, and operational effectiveness of personnel in high-stakes occupations including military and first response. Further research is necessary to explore the mechanisms underlying these associations and inform targeted interventions to boost personnel effectiveness.