bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional characterization of Plasmodium vivax hexose transporter 1
Authors: Won Jeong Yeon , Mazigo Ernest , Cha Seok Ho , Han Jin-Hee
Published: January 2024

Plasmodium vivax is the most widely distributed human malaria parasite. The eradication of vivax malaria remains challenging due to transmission of drug-resistant parasite and dormant liver form. Consequently, anti-malarial drugs with novel mechanisms of action are urgently demanded. Glucose uptake blocking strategy is suggested as a novel mode of action that leads to selective starvation in various species of malaria parasites. The role of hexose transporter 1 in Plasmodium species is glucose uptake, and its blocking strategies proved to successfully induce selective starvation. However, there is limited information on the glucose uptake properties via P. vivax hexose transporter 1 (PvHT1). Thus, we focused on the PvHT1 to precisely identify its properties of glucose uptake. The PvHT1 North Korean strain (PvHT1NK) expressed Xenopus laevis oocytes mediating the transport of [3H] deoxy-D-glucose (ddGlu) in an expression and incubation time-dependent manner without sodium dependency. Moreover, the PvHT1NK showed no exchange mode of glucose in efflux experiments and concentration-dependent results showed saturable kinetics following the Michaelis-Menten equation. Non-linear regression analysis revealed a Km value of 294.1 μM and a Vmax value of 1,060 pmol/oocyte/hr, and inhibition experiments showed a strong inhibitory effect by glucose, mannose, and ddGlu. Additionally, weak inhibition was observed with fructose and galactose. Comparison of amino acid sequence and tertiary structure between P. falciparum and P. vivax HT1 revealed a completely conserved residue in glucose binding pocket. This result supported that the glucose uptake properties are similar to P. falciparum, and PfHT1 inhibitor (compound 3361) works in P. vivax. These findings provide properties of glucose uptake via PvHT1NK for carbohydrate metabolism and support the approaches to vivax malaria drug development strategy targeting the PvHT1 for starving of the parasite.
Local knowledge matters: understanding the decision-making processes of communities under climate change in Suriname
Authors: Smith Gwendolyn , Chowenga Mawie , Karsters Jethro
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Traditionally, local communities have relied on practical observations accumulated over extended periods to inform their decision-making. This knowledge is now recognized as a viable solution for communities to adapt to climate change effectively. The impact of climate change brings an extra layer of complexity to local communities' detection- and decision-making processes, which needs to be better comprehended.

Methodology

Our study builds on the foundation of conflict resolution and examines the knowledge systems and corresponding decision-making processes of local communities living in urban, rural, and tropical forest regions of Suriname, South America.

Results

The mixed-method study showed that the autonomous decision-making processes of these communities are guided by their knowledge systems, intertwined with values and interests. Forest communities in remote locations rely solely on their robust knowledge base for crafting adaptation solutions, while urban and rural communities near the administrative centers develop adaptation strategies primarily considering their access to social networks and relative power.

Discussion

The study highlights local knowledge as the primary determinant for the direction communities take in adaptation, with tradeoffs becoming evident as communities navigate the broader social context. The recognition and integration of this knowledge emerge as a critical factor in enhancing climate change adaptation at the local level.
Characterizing energy balance closure over a heterogeneous ecosystem using multi-tower eddy covariance
Authors: Butterworth Brian J. , Desai Ankur R. , Durden David , Kadum Hawwa , LaLuzerne Danielle , Mauder Matthias , Metzger Stefan , Paleri Sreenath , Wanner Luise
Published: January 2024

Single point eddy covariance measurements of the Earth’s surface energy budget frequently identify an imbalance between available energy and turbulent heat fluxes. While this imbalance lacks a definitive explanation, it is nevertheless a persistent finding from single-site measurements; one with implications for atmospheric and ecosystem models. This has led to a push for intensive field campaigns with temporally and spatially distributed sensors to help identify the causes of energy balance non-closure. Here we present results from the Chequamegon Heterogeneous Ecosystem Energy-balance Study Enabled by a High-density Extensive Array of Detectors 2019 (CHEESEHEAD19)—an observational experiment designed to investigate how the Earth’s surface energy budget responds to scales of surface spatial heterogeneity over a forest ecosystem in northern Wisconsin. The campaign was conducted from June–October 2019, measuring eddy covariance (EC) surface energy fluxes using an array of 20 towers and a low-flying aircraft. Across the domain, energy balance residuals were found to be highest during the afternoon, coinciding with the period of surface heterogeneity-driven mesoscale motions. The magnitude of the residual varied across different sites in relation to the vegetation characteristics of each site. Both vegetation height and height variability showed positive relationships with the residual magnitude. During the seasonal transition from latent heat-dominated summer to sensible heat-dominated fall the magnitude of the energy balance residual steadily decreased, but the energy balance ratio remained constant at 0.8. This was due to the different components of the energy balance equation shifting proportionally, suggesting a common cause of non-closure across the two seasons. Additionally, we tested the effectiveness of measuring energy balance using spatial EC. Spatial EC, whereby the covariance is calculated based on deviations from spatial means, has been proposed as a potential way to reduce energy balance residuals by incorporating contributions from mesoscale motions better than single-site, temporal EC. Here we tested several variations of spatial EC with the CHEESEHEAD19 dataset but found little to no improvement to energy balance closure, which we attribute in part to the challenging measurement requirements of spatial EC.
Process analysis of the patient pathway for automated data collection: an exemplar using pituitary surgery
Authors: Hanrahan John G. , Carter Alexander W. , Khan Danyal Z. , Funnell Jonathan P. , Williams Simon C. , Dorward Neil L. , Baldeweg Stephanie E. , Marcus Hani J.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Automation of routine clinical data shows promise in relieving health systems of the burden associated with manual data collection. Identifying consistent points of documentation in the electronic health record (EHR) provides salient targets to improve data entry quality. Using our pituitary surgery service as an exemplar, we aimed to demonstrate how process mapping can be used to identify reliable areas of documentation in the patient pathway to target structured data entry interventions.

Materials and methods

This mixed methods study was conducted in the largest pituitary centre in the UK. Purposive snowball sampling identified frontline stakeholders for process mapping to produce a patient pathway. The final patient pathway was subsequently validated against a real-world dataset of 50 patients who underwent surgery for pituitary adenoma. Events were categorized by frequency and mapped to the patient pathway to determine critical data points.

Results

Eighteen stakeholders encompassing all members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) were consulted for process mapping. The commonest events recorded were neurosurgical ward round entries (N = 212, 14.7%), pituitary clinical nurse specialist (CNS) ward round entries (N = 88, 6.12%) and pituitary MDT treatment decisions (N = 88, 6.12%) representing critical data points. Operation notes and neurosurgical ward round entries were present for every patient. 43/44 (97.7%) had a pre-operative pituitary MDT entry, pre-operative clinic letter, a post-operative clinic letter, an admission clerking entry, a discharge summary, and a post-operative histopathology pituitary multidisciplinary (MDT) team entries.

Conclusion

This is the first study to produce a validated patient pathway of patients undergoing pituitary surgery, serving as a comparison to optimise this patient pathway. We have identified salient targets for structured data entry interventions, including mandatory datapoints seen in every admission and have also identified areas to improve documentation adherence, both of which support movement towards automation.
Ultra-short-term wind power forecasting techniques: comparative analysis and future trends
Authors: Yu Guangzheng , Shen Lingxu , Dong Qi , Cui Gean , Wang Siyuan , Xin Dezheng , Chen Xinyu , Lu Wu
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the integration of wind power into the grid has steadily increased, but the volatility and uncertainty of wind power pose significant challenges to grid planning, scheduling and operation. Ultra-short term wind power forecasting technology as the basis of daily scheduling decision can accurately predict the future hourly wind power output, and has important research significance for ensuring the safe and stable operation of power grid. Although research on ultra-short-term wind power forecasting technology has reached maturity, practical engineering applications still face several challenges. These challenges include the limited potential for improving the accuracy of numerical weather forecasts, the issue of missing historical data from new wind farms, and the need to achieve accurate power prediction under extreme weather scenarios. Therefore, this paper aims to critically review the current proposed ultra-short-term wind power forecasting methods. On this basis, analyze the combined power forecasting method under extreme weather scenarios, and illustrate its effectiveness through wind farm case studies. Finally, according to the development trend and demand of future power systems, future research directions are proposed.
How to define the wildland-urban interface? Methods and limitations: towards a unified protocol
Authors: Gonzalez Sofía , Ghermandi Luciana
Published: January 2024

In recent decades, the risk of Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) fires has increased due to urban growth, particularly in regions with a Mediterranean climate. The identification of the WUI is crucial for formulating fire prevention and management measures. However, there is no unified methodology for defining the WUI and it is not clear if proposals that emerge from scientific research are implemented by fire management agencies. Our objectives were to identify, describe, and compare the methods and criteria used by land and fire management agencies to define the WUI in Mediterranean-climate countries. We conducted a review of laws and fire prevention and management plans and protocols on the official websites of administrative bodies and agencies of the USA, Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Greece, South Africa, Australia, Chile, and Argentina. Each document was read and analyzed and we conducted searches for the terminology used to name the WUI, the methodology and criteria used for defining the WUI, the fire prevention and management actions implemented in the WUI, the level of territorial organization and the responsible agencies for implementing the actions, and the presence of a methodology and a map at national scale. We found no consensus on the terminology for the WUI, the most common terms used being: wildland-urban interface, urban-rural interface, and urban-forest interface. With the exception of the USA and Portugal, there is no unified methodology at the national scale. We identified three general methods for defining the WUI: considering buffer distance for urban and vegetation areas (USA, Italy, Chile, South Africa), employing networks of strips (Spain, Portugal), and delineating risk-prone zones (Australia, France). All countries undertake fire prevention actions (e.g., fuel reduction and firebreak creation) often implemented at the municipal level. There is almost no interaction between academia and fire management agencies. Our review addresses the gap in the methods to define the WUI effectively implemented by fire management agencies. We highlight the need to implement actions aimed at enhancing the interaction between fire scientists and fire managers, which is essential for formulating and implementing effective strategies for fire prevention and optimizing resources.
Return and volatility connectedness among carbon and energy markets based on time- and frequency-domain approaches
Authors: Wu You , Ren Wenting , Xiong Yang , Cao Gang , Liang Peng , Zeng Wenzhi
Published: January 2024

With heightened concern over carbon neutrality and increased energy market fluctuations against the backdrop of increasing global uncertainty, it becomes imperative to thoroughly investigate the information transmission and risk contagion between carbon and energy markets. This paper empirically explores the return and volatility connectedness among carbon and energy markets (electricity, natural gas, crude oil, and coal) from April 2008 to September 2021 by employing the time-frequency domain connectedness approaches. This paper indicates: i) the return connectedness exceeds volatility connectedness, and extreme events can intensify the dynamic changes; ii) the return connectedness is predominantly concentrated at high-frequency, while the volatility connectedness is concentrated at medium- and low-frequency. Net volatility connectedness maintains a consistent direction across all markets in the time-frequency domain. In contrast, net return connectedness exhibits an opposing direction at high-frequency and medium- and low-frequency. iii) the natural gas and coal markets predominantly act as net transmitters in both return and volatility connectedness, while the electricity, crude oil, and carbon markets operate as net receivers. Moreover, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the carbon market emerged as an information receiver in time-frequency domains and acted as a risk transmitter, exporting risk, particularly to the electricity market. These conclusions help investors, high-carbon enterprises, and policymakers to comprehensively understand the carbon-energy relationships, thereby supporting sustainable energy development and low-carbon economic goals. Simultaneously, this paper provides insights for enhancing carbon markets in emerging markets like China.
Genome-wide survey reveals the genetic background of Xinjiang Brown cattle in China
Authors: Wang Xiao , Ma Zhen , Gao Liang , Yuan Lixin , Ye Zhibing , Cui Fanrong , Guo Xiaoping , Liu Wujun , Yan Xiangmin
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Xinjiang Brown cattle are a famous dual-purpose (dairy-beef) cultivated breed in China that occupy a pivotal position within the cattle breeding industry in Xinjiang, China. However, little information is available on the genetic background of this breed. To fill this research gap, we conducted a whole-genome screen using specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing to examine the genetic structure and diversity of 130 Xinjiang Brown cattle-grazing type (XBG, traditional type) cattle.

Methods: A subsequent joint analysis incorporating two ancestral breeds, specifically 19 Brown Swiss (BS) foreign and nine Kazakh (KZ) Chinese cattle, as well as 20 Xinjiang Brown cattle-housing type (XBH) cattle, was used to explore the genetic background of the Xinjiang Brown cattle.

Results: The results showed that, after nearly a century of crossbreeding, XBG cattle formed a single population with a stable genetic performance. The genetic structure, genetic diversity, and selection signature analysis of the two ancestral types showed highly different results compared to that of XBH cattle. Local ancestry inference showed that the average proportions of XGB cattle within the BS and KZ cattle lineages were 37.22% and 62.78%, respectively, whereas the average proportions of XBH cattle within the BS and KZ cattle lineages were 95.14% and 4.86%, respectively. Thus, XGB cattle are more representative of all Xinjiang Brown cattle, in line with their breeding history, which involves crossbreeding. Two complementary approaches, fixation index and mean nucleotide diversity, were used to detect selection signals in the four aforementioned cattle breeds. Finally, the analysis of 26 candidate genes in Xinjiang Brown cattle revealed significant enrichment in 19 Gene Ontology terms, and seven candidate genes were enriched in three pathways related to disease resistance (CDH4, SIRPB1, and SIRPα) and the endocrine system (ADCY5, ABCC8, KCNJ11, and KCNMA1). Finally, development of the core SNPs in XBG cattle yielded 8,379 loci.

Conclusion: The results of this study detail the evolutionary process of crossbreeding in Xinjiang Brown cattle and provide guidance for selecting and breeding new strains of this species.
A laser–laser method for carbonate C and O isotope measurement, metrology assessment, and stratigraphic applications
Authors: Petitjean Alban , Thomazo Christophe , Musset Olivier , Jovovic Ivan , Sansjofre Pierre , Kirsimäe Kalle
Published: January 2024

The stable isotopic compositions of carbon and oxygen (δ13Ccarb and δ18Ocarb) measured from carbonates are widely used in geology, notably to reconstruct paleotemperatures and the secular evolution of the biogeochemical carbon cycle, to characterize limestone sediment diagenesis, and to provide chemostratigraphy records. The standard technique used since the mid-20th century to measure C and O isotopic ratios is based on a wet chemical acid digestion protocol in order to evolve CO2 from carbonates—the latter being analyzed by mass spectrometry and, more recently, infrared spectroscopy. A newly developed laser-based method aims to circumvent this chemical preparation step by producing CO2 via an instant and spatially resolved calcination reaction. We describe an evolution of the laser calcination benchtop system previously described and used as a proof of concept toward a portable system, and we present the efficiency of this tool for performing carbon and oxygen isotope measurements from carbonate matrixes following standard evaluation metrology protocol. This metrological study explores the following: i) the use of internal standards; ii) inter-calibration with the traditional acid chemical preparation method; iii) analysis of the uncertainties of using GUM and ANOVA. Using 15 different types of carbonate minerals encompassing a range of isotopic VPDB compositions between −18.6‰ and +16.06‰ and between −14.80‰ and −1.72‰ for δ13Ccarb and δ18Ocarb, we show that isotopic cross-calibration is verified for both carbon and oxygen, respectively, and we demonstrate that the uncertainties (1σ) of the δ13Ccarb and δ18Ocarb measurements of laser–laser isotopic analysis are within 0.41‰ and 0.68‰, respectively. The advantages of this method in saving time and spatially resolved and automated analysis in situ are demonstrated by high-resolution chemostratigraphic analysis of a laminated lacustrine travertine sample.
Mutational analysis of SARS-CoV-2 ORF6-KPNA2 binding interface and identification of potent small molecule inhibitors to recuse the host immune system
Authors: Suleman Muhammad , Said Afsheen , Khan Haji , Rehman Shoaib Ur , Alshammari Abdulrahman , Crovella Sergio , Yassine Hadi M.
Published: January 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) surfaced on 31 December, 2019, and was identified as the causative agent of the global COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a pneumonia-like disease. One of its accessory proteins, ORF6, has been found to play a critical role in immune evasion by interacting with KPNA2 to antagonize IFN signaling and production pathways, resulting in the inhibition of IRF3 and STAT1 nuclear translocation. Since various mutations have been observed in ORF6, therefore, a comparative binding, biophysical, and structural analysis was used to reveal how these mutations affect the virus’s ability to evade the human immune system. Among the identified mutations, the V9F, V24A, W27L, and I33T, were found to have a highly destabilizing effect on the protein structure of ORF6. Additionally, the molecular docking analysis of wildtype and mutant ORF6 and KPNA2 revealed the docking score of - 53.72 kcal/mol for wildtype while, -267.90 kcal/mol, -258.41kcal/mol, -254.51 kcal/mol and -268.79 kcal/mol for V9F, V24A, W27L, and I33T respectively. As compared to the wildtype the V9F showed a stronger binding affinity with KPNA2 which is further verified by the binding free energy (-42.28 kcal/mol) calculation. Furthermore, to halt the binding interface of the ORF6-KPNA2 complex, we used a computational molecular search of potential natural products. A multi-step virtual screening of the African natural database identified the top 5 compounds with best docking scores of -6.40 kcal/mol, -6.10 kcal/mol, -6.09 kcal/mol, -6.06 kcal/mol, and -6.03 kcal/mol for tophit1-5 respectively. Subsequent all-atoms simulations of these top hits revealed consistent dynamics, indicating their stability and their potential to interact effectively with the interface residues. In conclusion, our study represents the first attempt to establish a foundation for understanding the heightened infectivity of new SARS-CoV-2 variants and provides a strong impetus for the development of novel drugs against them.
Characterization of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells responses in the mixed lymphocyte reaction by flow cytometry and single cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Mangelinck Adèle , Dubuisson Agathe , Becht Etienne , Dromaint-Catesson Sandra , Fasquel Manon , Provost Nicolas , Walas Dawid , Darville Hélène , Galizzi Jean-Pierre , Lefebvre Céline , Blanc Véronique , Lombardi Vincent
Published: January 2024

Background

The Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR) consists in the allogeneic co-culture of monocytes derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) with T cells from another donor. This in vitro assay is largely used for the assessment of immunotherapy compounds. Nevertheless, the phenotypic changes associated with lymphocyte responsiveness under MLR have never been thoroughly evaluated.

Methods

Here, we used multiplex cytokine and chemokine assays, multiparametric flow cytometry and single cell RNA sequencing to deeply characterize T cells activation and function in the context of CD4+- and CD8+-specific MLR kinetics.

Results

We showed that CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in MLR share common classical markers of response such as polyfunctionality, increased proliferation and CD25 expression but differ in their kinetics and amplitude of activation as well as their patterns of cytokines secretion and immune checkpoints expression. The analysis of immunoreactive Ki-67+CD25+ T cells identified PBK, LRR1 and MYO1G as new potential markers of MLR response. Using cell-cell communication network inference and pathway analysis on single cell RNA sequencing data, we also highlighted key components of the immunological synapse occurring between T cells and the stimulatory MoDCs together with downstream signaling pathways involved in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells activation.

Conclusion

These results provide a deep understanding of the kinetics of the MLR assay for CD4+ or CD8+ T cells and may allow to better characterize compounds impacting MLR and eventually identify new strategies for immunotherapy in cancer.
Comparative omics analysis of a deep-sea barnacle species (Cirripedia, Scalpellomorpha) and shallow-water barnacle species provides insights into deep-sea adaptation
Authors: Mao Ning , Shao Wentai , Cai Yuefeng , Kong Xue , Ji Nanjing , Shen Xin
Published: January 2024

Barnacles have demonstrated adaptability to a range of habitats, spanning from shallow water to the deep sea. Given the harsh conditions present in hydrothermal vents, hydrothermal vent barnacles serve as the model organism for investigating the interplay between evolution and adaptability. In order to gain insights into barnacle adaptive characteristics, particularly within hydrothermal vents, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the mitogenomes and transcriptome in a deep-sea barnacle (Neolepas marisindica), in comparison to its shallow-water related species. The mitogenomes with the same genetic skews and the non-synonymous/synonymous mutation ratios (Ka/Ks) of the mitogenomes indicate that the protein-coding genes (COIII, ND2, and ND6) of N. marisindica are under positive selection. Meanwhile, the functional annotation shows that distinctly positive selected orthologs in N. marisindica are predominately related to neural signal transduction, immunity, antiapoptotic, and energy metabolism. These results indicate that the mitogenomes and key genes found in transcriptomic analysis are under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, and which may contribute N. marisindica to have evolved to adapt to the extreme hydrothermal vent environments. The findings shed light on the mitogenome and transcriptome of N. marisindica, which lays a foundation for the in-depth understanding of the adaptation mechanism of sessile invertebrates to the deep-sea environment.
Identifying fit-for purpose methods for monitoring fish communities
Authors: Hammerl Constanze , Möllmann Christian , Oesterwind Daniel
Published: January 2024

Scientific monitoring is a fundamental basis of scientific advice. Among others, monitoring aims at contributing towards understanding the influence of anthropogenic use (e.g. fisheries), the health of a stock and individuum and effectiveness of management and conservation measures (e.g. MPAs). Monitoring of demersal and benthic fish communities is often based on invasive methods like bottom trawling, however in some cases less invasive methods might be available. The need for developing alternative and less invasive monitoring methods is supported by an increasing number of Marine Protected Areas and Windfarms where traditional methods such as trawls cannot be deployed due to conservational or technical and safety reasons. To support the development of new monitoring concepts, we conducted a literature review to identify limits and opportunities of methods that are already available. Furthermore, we present a fit-for purpose guide that can help identifying the appropriate method for individual purposes. We defined eight different methods which were analyzed using four different criteria and listed their advantages and disadvantages. We further apply this guide to monitoring in Marine Protected Areas in the Baltic Sea as a case study, indicating that besides traditional bottom trawling, alternative and less invasive methods could be sufficient for specific research purposes. We therefore, encourage scientists and managers to consider alternative data collection methods to minimize environmental impact of scientific sampling. However, our results also indicate that most of the methods still need further refinement especially regarding sampling design, standardization of methods and comparability with established survey methods.
Higher levels of systemic immune-inflammatory index are associated with the prevalence of gallstones in people under 50 years of age in the United States: a cross-sectional analysis based on NHANES
Authors: Meng Chunli , Liu Kai
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Inflammation plays a significant role in gallstones formation. The prognosis of various illnesses was initially predicted using the systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII). We performed an updated analysis on the impact of SII and gallstones.

Methods

To investigate the connection between the SII and gallstones occurrence in a sample of individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database from 2017 to 2020, we employed logistic regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and smoothing curve fitting.

Results

In our study, an aggregate of 4,950 individuals over the age of 20 were enrolled, and 429 of them claimed to have gallstones. A fully adjusted model showed that the third and fourth quartiles of SII was parallel associated with gallstones in adults (OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.39–4.26; OR = 2.97, 95% CI = 1.72–5.16) under 50 years. Subgroup analysis and smoothed curve fitting provided evidence in favor of this finding.

Conclusion

According to our research, gallstones are more likely to occur in US adults younger than 50 years.
Slightly acidic electrolyzed water inhibits inflammation induced by membrane vesicles of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Shimamura Yuko , Oura Yukino , Tsuchiya Madoka , Yamanashi Yuka , Ogasawara Asako , Oishi Minami , Komuro Misaki , Sasaki Kuniaki , Masuda Shuichi
Published: January 2024

Staphylococcus aureus grows in the skin of patients with atopic dermatitis and the associated symptoms are induced by membrane vesicles (MVs). This study explored the effects of slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) on the expression of virulence factors of S. aureus and MV-induced inflammation to uncover the potential of SAEW as a new treatment method for atopic dermatitis. Expression levels of genes related to virulence factors in S. aureus was assessed and S. aureus-derived MVs were characterized. Moreover, expression level of MV-induced Type I allergic reaction-related genes in RBL2H3 cells was also assessed. Significantly decreased staphylococcal enterotoxin A production and decreased virulence factor-related gene expression were observed after culturing S. aureus in broth supplemented with SAEW at ratios of 1, 2, and 5 per broth. MVs prepared by culturing S. aureus in SAEW-supplemented broth exhibited altered particle size and markedly reduced staphylococcal enterotoxin A content under all addition conditions; moreover, those obtained at a ratio of 1:5 (broth:SAEW) exhibited a reduction in the expression of several proteins associated with hemolytic activity and free iron uptake. The MVs prepared in SAEW-supplemented broth also exhibited remarkably reduced allergy-related gene expression levels in rat cell lines derived from basophilic leukemia-2H3 cells. Overall, SAEW is expected to suppress atopic dermatitis symptoms through the alteration of the properties of S. aureus-derived MVs.
From theory to practice: translating the concept of cognitive resilience to novel therapeutic targets that maintain cognition in aging adults
Authors: Zammit Andrea R. , Bennett David A. , Buchman Aron S.
Published: January 2024

While the concept of cognitive resilience is well-established it has not been defined in a way that can be measured. This has been an impediment to studying its underlying biology and to developing instruments for its clinical assessment. This perspective highlights recent work that has quantified the expression of cortical proteins associated with cognitive resilience, thus facilitating studies of its complex underlying biology and the full range of its clinical effects in aging adults. These initial studies provide empirical support for the conceptualization of resilience as a continuum. Like other conventional risk factors, some individuals manifest higher-than-average cognitive resilience and other individuals manifest lower-than-average cognitive resilience. These novel approaches for advancing studies of cognitive resilience can be generalized to other aging phenotypes and can set the stage for the development of clinical tools that might have the potential to measure other mechanisms of resilience in aging adults. These advances also have the potential to catalyze a complementary therapeutic approach that focuses on augmenting resilience via lifestyle changes or therapies targeting its underlying molecular mechanisms to maintain cognition and brain health even in the presence of untreatable stressors like brain pathologies that accumulate in aging adults.
Exercise for reducing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Huang Yingjie , Tan Tian , Liu Lu , Yan Zijian , Deng Yuexia , Li Guangyao , Li Min , Xiong Jia
Published: January 2024

Background

More than half of cancer patients develop severe chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), resulting in low quality of life, negative effects on function, and challenges in treatment compliance. Most recent studies have shown that exercise therapy has a positive impact on reducing CIPN symptoms and can also improve quality of life, balance, and activity levels. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of exercise therapy on the efficacy of CIPN.

Methods

Computerized search of Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Wan Fang Data, VIP, CBM for RCTs on exercise therapy for CIPN from database creation to November 2022, without language restriction. The Cochrane Handbook 5.3 risk of bias assessment tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Then Revman 5.3 software was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. The heterogeneity of the research results is tested by I2, continuous variables were presented as weighted mean difference or standard mean difference, and confidence intervals were set at 95%. Stata15.0 was utilized to conduct a meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 15 RCTs with 1,124 patients were included. Meta-analysis showed that the test group was superior to the control group in terms of total symptom score (SMD: −0.62; 95% Cl: −0.99, −0.24), numbness, tingling, quality of life score (total score, physical, function), pain, balance, and neurotoxicity function assessment (FACT/GOG-NTX) questionnaire (p < 0.05).

Limitations

The duration and frequency of treatment are different every week, which may have some impact on the results.

Conclusion

Exercise therapy can be effective in treating CIPN by improving symptom score (total symptom score, numbness, tingling), quality of life score (total score, physical function), pain, balance, and FACT/GOG-NTX questionnaires. It still needs to be refined and validated by more high-quality, multicenter, large-sample RCTs in the future.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022373131, identifier: CRD42022373131.
The economic impact of cannabis use disorder and dementia diagnosis in veterans diagnosed with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Esmaeili Aryan , Pogoda Terri K. , Amuan Megan E. , Garcia Carla , Del Negro Ariana , Myers Maddy , Pugh Mary Jo , Cifu David , Dismuke-Greer Clara
Published: January 2024

Background

Studies have demonstrated that individuals diagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI) frequently use medical and recreational cannabis to treat persistent symptoms of TBI, such as chronic pain and sleep disturbances, which can lead to cannabis use disorder (CUD). We aimed to determine the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) healthcare utilization and costs associated with CUD and dementia diagnosis in veterans with TBI.

Methods

This observational study used administrative datasets from the population of post-9/11 veterans from the Long-term Impact of Military-Relevant Brain Injury Consortium-Chronic Effects of Neurotrauma Consortium and the VA Data Warehouse. We compared the differential VHA costs among the following cohorts of veterans: (1) No dementia diagnosis and No CUD group, (2) Dementia diagnosis only (Dementia only), (3) CUD only, and (4) comorbid dementia diagnosis and CUD (Dementia and CUD). Generalized estimating equations and negative binomial regression models were used to estimate total annual costs (inflation-adjusted) and the incidence rate of healthcare utilization, respectively, by dementia diagnosis and CUD status.

Results

Data from 387,770 veterans with TBI (88.4% men; median [interquartile range (IQR)] age at the time of TBI: 30 [14] years; 63.5% white) were followed from 2000 to 2020. Overall, we observed a trend of gradually increasing healthcare costs 5 years after TBI onset. Interestingly, in this cohort of veterans within 5 years of TBI, we observed substantial healthcare costs in the Dementia only group (peak = $46,808) that were not observed in the CUD and dementia group. Relative to those without either condition, the annual total VHA costs were $3,368 higher in the CUD only group, while no significant differences were observed in the Dementia only and Dementia and CUD groups.

Discussion

The findings suggest that those in the Dementia only group might be getting their healthcare needs met more quickly and within 5 years of TBI diagnosis, whereas veterans in the Dementia and CUD group are not receiving early care, resulting in higher long-term healthcare costs. Further investigations should examine what impact the timing of dementia and CUD diagnoses have on specific categories of inpatient and outpatient care in VA and community care facilities.
Neuroprotective effect of ranolazine improves behavioral discrepancies in a rat model of scopolamine-induced dementia
Authors: Samir Shereen M. , Hassan Hend M. , Elmowafy Rasha , ElNashar Eman Mohamed , Alghamdi Mansour Abdullah , AlSheikh Mona Hmoud , Al-Zahrani Norah Saeed , Alasiri Faten Mohammed , Elhadidy Mona G.
Published: January 2024

Background

Ranolazine (Rn), an antianginal agent, acts in the central nervous system and has been used as a potential treatment agent for pain and epileptic disorders. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases and the leading factor in dementia in the elderly.

Aim

We examined the impact of Rn on scopolamine (Sco)-induced dementia in rats.

Methods

Thirty-two albino male rats were divided into four groups: control, Rn, Sco, and Rn + Sco.

Results

A significant decrease in the escape latency in the Morris water maze test after pre-treatment with Rn explained better learning and memory in rats. Additionally, Rn significantly upregulated the activities of the antioxidant enzymes in the treated group compared to the Sco group but substantially reduced acetylcholinesterase activity levels in the hippocampus. Moreover, Rn dramatically reduced interleukin-1 β (IL-1β) and IL-6 and upregulated the gene expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Furthermore, in the Sco group, the hippocampal tissue’s immunohistochemical reaction of Tau and glial factor activating protein (GFAP) was significantly increased in addition to the upregulation of the Caspase-3 gene expression, which was markedly improved by pre-treatment with Rn. The majority of pyramidal neurons had large vesicular nuclei with prominent nucleoli and appeared to be more or less normal, reflecting the all-beneficial effects of Rn when the hippocampal tissue was examined under a microscope.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that Rn, through its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, as well as the control of the expression of GFAP, BDNF, and Tau proteins, has a novel neuroprotective impact against scopolamine-induced dementia in rats.
Propofol-induced anesthesia involves the direct inhibition of glutamatergic neurons in the lateral hypothalamus
Authors: Huang Yan , Xiao Yong , Li Linji , Feng Xinglong , Ding Weixing , Cai Feng
Published: January 2024

Propofol is the most widely used intravenous general anesthetic; however, the neuronal circuits that mediate its anesthetic effects are still poorly understood. Glutamatergic neurons in the lateral hypothalamus have been reported to be involved in maintenance of arousal and consciousness. Using Vglut2-Cre transgenic mice, we recorded this group of cells specifically and found that propofol can directly inhibit the glutamatergic neurons, and enhance inhibitory synaptic inputs on these cells, thereby reducing neuronal excitability. Through chemogenetic interventions, we found that inhibition of these neurons increased the duration of propofol-induced anesthesia and reduced movement in the animals after the recovery of right reflex. In contrast, activating this group of cells reduced the duration of propofol anesthesia and increased the animals’ locomotor activity after the recovery of right reflex. These results suggest that propofol-induced anesthesia involves the inhibition of glutamatergic neurons in the lateral hypothalamus.
High-temperature thermal imaging to inform the arc-melt synthesis of nuclear materials
Authors: Stone Jordan , Khair Mira , Cavazos Steven , Sooby Elizabeth
Published: January 2024

The advancement of nuclear energy technology necessitates the development of novel materials and synthesis methods to produce materials which enable new fuel cycles. Alongside the maturation of R&D scale technologies to produce these materials, there is an ongoing effort to develop in situ monitoring capabilities to reduce the time to the discovery and development of these fuels. Monitoring data can be leveraged in artificial intelligence platforms to detect phenomena which lead to varied macro- and microstructural features which impact the application and performance of samples synthesized. The present study presents early-stage findings of the implementation of high-temperature, high-frame-rate infrared thermal imaging to monitor the arc-melt synthesis of novel fuels and compounds relevant to advanced nuclear reactors. The study illustrates both the challenges and opportunities of this methodology, highlighting the importance of internal standards while determining emissivity and transmission values as well as visualizing volatilization during melt synthesis.
The paradox of corporate sustainability: analyzing the moral landscape of Canadian grocers
Authors: Taylor Samantha , Charlebois Sylvain , Crowell Tammy , Cross Bryce
Published: January 2024

Food prices have experienced unprecedented increases in recent times. Simultaneously, grocers are facing allegations of capitalizing on inflation to generate unjustifiable profits. Escalating expenses and a lack of transparency have engendered heightened consumer skepticism. This perceived presence of barriers and excessive profitability gives rise to ethical concerns. Our case study delves into the ethical landscape surrounding Canadian grocers, aiming to probe the public’s demand for accountability. To comprehend the factors responsible for the transformation in consumer perception of Canadian grocers in 2022, we conducted an analysis utilizing data from consumers, corporate watchdogs, and industry sources. We extended the paradox perspective on corporate sustainability framework to include a historical aspect to use as our analytical lens. This study sheds light on the alterations in circumstances that have led Canadian consumers to question entire industries and accounting practices that were previously considered unproblematic. As a remedy, we recommend the establishment of a mandatory code of conduct for grocers and an enhancement in the transparency of financial reporting. Paradoxically, corporate profits may continue to grow when societal needs are no longer perceived as being neglected or, even worse, exploited.
Therapeutic efficacy of sulforaphane in autism spectrum disorders and its association with gut microbiota: animal model and human longitudinal studies
Authors: Yang Jiexian , He Li , Dai Si , Zheng Huihui , Cui Xilong , Ou Jianjun , Zhang Xiaojie
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Sulforaphane (SFN) has been found to alleviate complications linked with several diseases by regulating gut microbiota (GM), while the effect of GM on SFN for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has not been studied. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the effects of SFN on childhood ASD and GM through animal model and human studies.

Methods

We evaluated the therapeutic effects of SFN on maternal immune activation (MIA) induced ASD-like rat model and pediatric autism patients using three-chamber social test and OSU Autism Rating Scale-DSM-IV (OARS-4), respectively, with parallel GM analysis using 16SrRNA sequencing.

Results

SFN significantly improved the sniffing times of ASD-like rats in the three-chamber test. For human participants, the average verbal or non-verbal communication (OSU-CO) scores of SFN group had changed significantly at the 12-wk endpoint. SFN was safe and no serious side effects after taking. GM changes were similar for both ASD-like rats and ASD patients, such as consistent changes in order Bacillales, family Staphylococcaceae and genus Staphylococcus. Although the gut microbiota composition was significantly altered in SFN-treated ASD-like rats, the alteration of GM was not evident in ASD patients after 12 weeks of SFN treatment. However, in the network analysis, we found 25 taxa correlated with rats' social behavior, 8 of which were associated with SFN treatment in ASD-like rats, For ASD patients, we found 35 GM abundance alterations correlated with improvements in ASD symptoms after SFN treatment. Moreover, family Pasteurellaceae and genus Haemophilus were found to be associated with SFN administration in the network analyses in both ASD-like rats and ASD patients.

Discussion

These findings suggest that SFN could provide a novel avenue for preventing and treating ASD, and its therapeutic effects might be related to gut microbiota.
Co-occurrence of JAK2-V617 F mutation and BCR::ABL1 translocation in chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms: a potentially confounding genetic combination
Authors: Zanelli Magda , Bisagni Alessandra , Sanguedolce Francesca , Broggi Giuseppe , Fragliasso Valentina , Zizzo Maurizio , Palicelli Andrea , Martino Giovanni , Cresta Camilla , Caprera Cecilia , Corsi Matteo , Gentile Pietro , Gozzi Fabrizio , Trombetta Domenico , Parente Paola , Caltabiano Rosario , Koufopoulos Nektarios , Cimino Luca , Cavazza Alberto , Fraternali Orcioni Giulio , Ascani Stefano
Published: January 2024

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are classified into Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome–positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and Ph-negative MPNs. BCR::ABL1 translocation is the key genetic event of CML, whereas JAK2/MPL/CALR mutations are molecular aberrations of Ph-negative MPNs. Despite initially considered mutually exclusive genetic aberrations, the co-occurrence of BCR::ABL1 and JAK2 has been reported in a limited number of cases. The two genetic alterations may be identified either at the same time or JAK2 aberration may be detected in patients with a previous CML treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors or, finally, BCR::ABL1 translocation occurs in patients with a history of JAK2-positive MPN. This combination of genomic alterations is potentially confounding with clinical manifestations often misinterpreted either as disease progression or drug resistance, therefore leading to inappropriate patient’s treatment. Our systematic review aims to improve hematologist and pathologist knowledge on this rare subset of patients. Starting from the presentation of two additional cases from our routine daily practice, we focus mainly on clinical, laboratory, and bone marrow histological findings, which may represent useful clues of BCR::ABL1 and JAK2 co-occurrence. The interaction between JAK2 and BCR::ABL1 clones during the disease course as well as therapy and outcome are presented.