bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High carrier frequency of a nonsense p.Trp230* variant in HSD3B2 gene in Ossetians
Authors: Makretskaya Nina , Kalinchenko Natalia , Tebieva Inna , Ionova Sofya , Zinchenko Rena , Marakhonov Andrey , Tiulpakov Anatoly
Published: May 2023

Background

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) caused by 3β-HSD deficiency is a rare form of congenital adrenal deficiency with an autosomal recessive type of inheritance. Previously we have demonstrated that a single nucleotide variant (SNV) p.Trp230* in the homozygous state is a frequent cause of CAH among the indigenous population of North Ossetia-Alania represented by Ossetians.

Methods

Genotyping of the NM_000198.3:c.690G>A p.Trp230* variant was performed by Real-time PCR. 339 healthy individuals of Ossetian origin were included in the study. Allele frequencies, Fisher’s confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using the WinPepi v. 11.65 software. Comparison of allele frequencies was performed with the z-score test for two proportions.

Results

Eight heterozygous carriers of c.690G>A variant in HSD3B2 gene were detected in 339 samples investigated. The total allele frequency of p.Trp230* variant was 0.0118 (n=8/678, 95% CI=0.0051–0.0231). Accordingly, the heterozygous carrier rate was 0.0236 (n=8/339). The frequency of CAH caused by p.Trp230* variant in HSD3B2 in Ossetian population was 1:7183 or 13.9 per 100,000 (95% CI: 1:1874–1:38447 or 3–53 per 100,000).

Conclusion

The results demonstrate high frequency of p.Trp230* variant in Ossetians, which is most likely attributed to a founder effect.
Distinct serum steroid profiles between adrenal Cushing syndrome and Cushing disease
Authors: Gao Chang , Ding Li , Zhang Xiaona , Yuan Menghua , Tang Shaofang , Li Wei , Ye Yuanyuan , Liu Ming , He Qing
Published: May 2023

Background

Differentiating between adrenal Cushing syndrome (adrenal CS) and Cushing disease (CD) can be challenging if there are equivocal or falsely elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) values. We aim to investigate the diagnostic value of serum steroid profiles in differentiating adrenal CS from CD.

Method

A total of 11 serum steroids in adrenal CS (n = 13) and CD (n = 15) were analyzed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Age- and gender-specific steroid ratios were generated by dividing the actual steroid concentration by the upper limit of the relevant reference range. A principal component analysis (PCA) and an orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were performed.

Results

The PCA and OPLS-DA analyses showed distinct serum steroid profiles between adrenal CS and CD. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and androstenedione ratios were identified as biomarkers for discrimination by variable importance in projection (VIP) in combination with t-tests. The sensitivity and specificity of DHEA-S ratios <0.40 were 92.31% (95% CI 64.0%–99.8%) and 93.33% (95% CI 68.1%–99.8%), respectively, in identifying adrenal CS. The sensitivity and specificity of DHEA ratios <0.18 were 100% (95% CI 75.3%–100.0%) and 100% (95% CI 78.2%–100.0%), respectively, in identifying adrenal CS.

Conclusion

Our data support the clinical use of the DHEA-S and DHEA ratios in the differential diagnosis of adrenal CS and CD, especially when falsely elevated ACTH is suspected.
FABP3, FABP4, and heart rate variability among patients with chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Hung Wei-Chin , Yu Teng-Hung , Wu Cheng-Ching , Lee Thung-Lip , Tsai I-Ting , Hsuan Chin-Feng , Chen Chun-Yu , Chung Fu-Mei , Lee Yau-Jiunn , Tang Wei-Hua
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD-related deaths in patients with schizophrenia is high. An elevated risk of CVD has been associated with low heart rate variability (HRV). There is increasing evidence that fatty acid-binding protein (FABP)3 and FABP4 play roles in the development and progression of CVD. This study aimed to explore the association of circulating FABP3/FABP4 levels with HRV in patients with chronic schizophrenia.

Methods

We included 265 consecutive patients with chronic schizophrenia who attended a disease management program. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the measurement of plasma concentrations of FABP3 and FABP4. Standard HRV was recorded at baseline following a standard protocol. Mean high- and low-frequency (HF/LF) HRV values were analyzed by tertile of FABP3 and FABP4 using one-way analysis of variance, and linear regression analysis was performed to assess trends.

Results

A positive association between FABP3 and creatinine was found in multiple regression analysis. In addition, negative associations between levels of hematocrit, hemoglobin, HF HRV, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) with FABP3 were also found. Moreover, positive associations between FABP4 with body mass index, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, and FABP3 were found. Furthermore, negative associations between levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, eGFR, and HF HRV with FABP4 were found. We also found a significant inverse association between FABP3 and HF HRV (p for trend = 0.008), and significant inverse associations between FABP4 with HF and LF HRV (p for trend = 0.007 and 0.017, respectively).

Discussion

Together, this suggests that elevated levels of FABP3 and FABP4 may be linked to health problems related to CVD in patients with chronic schizophrenia.
An overview of thorium as a prospective natural resource for future energy
Authors: Jyothi Rajesh Kumar , De Melo Leonardo Gadelha Tumajan Costa , Santos Rafael M. , Yoon Ho-Sung
Published: May 2023

Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive element that has been identified as a potential alternative fuel for nuclear energy production. Additionally, thorium-based nuclear reactors have inherent safety features that reduce the risk of nuclear accidents and proliferation. As a result, there has been growing interest in the development of thorium-based nuclear energy as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. This paper looks at the present status of thorium nuclear fuel technology, providing an overview of thorium as a prospective natural resource for future energy, the global availability of mineral supplies, and discusses the technical, economic, and environmental factors that may influence its implementation. Potential advantages and challenges critical to further development associated with thorium-based nuclear energy are highlighted as well, and an outlook on its future prospects is provided. Thorium offers advantageous physical and chemical properties over uranium, has a higher energy density, and produces less waste, in addition to its greater natural abundance, making it to be considered a “future nuclear fuel”. There are concerns about the cost and scalability of thorium-based nuclear energy, with uncertainty around the cost to develop, build, and operate thorium reactors, as it has not yet been demonstrated in large-scale commercial reactors—although almost all current reactor types have been built and run using thorium—as it is the case with Uranium-based nuclear technology—the dominant form of nuclear energy for over half a century, having received much more investment and attention than thorium-based technology. Thorium has the potential to contribute towards a more sustainable nuclear industry, including lower lifecycle emissions and more efficient resource utilization, but for this, an acceleration of efforts to date is needed to ensure that this becomes an important climate change stabilizing wedge by the mid-21st century.
The depositional history of the Knysna estuary since European colonization in the context of sea level and human impacts
Authors: Kirsten Kelly L. , Pretorius Lauren , Meadows Michael E. , Weij Rieneke , Aquino-López Marco , Antonopoulos Helen G. , Dubazana Yakhuluntu , Qadeer Abdul , Finch Jemma , Bao Kunshan
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Estuaries are highly vulnerable systems and increasingly exposed to a number of environmental, climatic and human-induced stressors. The Knysna estuary and lagoon complex, on the south coast of South Africa, is regarded as environmentally and economically important, yet faces regional impacts resulting from ongoing urbanisation and land use change as well as the significant global threats of rising sea levels and changing climate. Although the estuary has been reasonably well studied in terms of modern ecological processes, little is known of how the system has responded to changes in the longer term, not least the impact of European colonization and subsequent population growth and economic development.

Methods

In order to address this shortcoming, a series of shallow (<1 m) cores was extracted from a range of representative habitats and marine influences in the estuary and three of these (namely KNY-19A, KNY-19B, KNY-19G) selected for detailed analysis, including organic matter content, magnetic susceptibility, selected elemental analysis and particle size.

Results and Discussion

Notwithstanding the challenges of dating estuarine sediments due to the possibility of erosion and resuspension, combined modelling of 210Pb and 14C ages is successfully deployed to develop an age-depth relationship for each core, providing a chronological framework for late Holocene environmental changes. Sedimentary characteristics of the three cores, taken in contrasting estuarine conditions, yield insights as to how different parts of the estuary responded to changes in sea level and anthropogenic activities in and around the Knysna basin, as well as in the wider catchment.
Monitoring of strength, inflammation and muscle function in allogenic stem-cell transplantation patients – a pilot study for novel biomarker and risk stratification determination
Authors: Schulz Sebastian Viktor Waldemar , Bizjak Daniel Alexander , Moebes Elena , John Lucas , Wais Verena , Bunjes Donald , Sala Elisa , Steinacker Jürgen Michael , Kirsten Johannes
Published: May 2023

Background

Low aerobic capacity is associated with an increased mortality risk in allogenic stem-cell transplantation (alloSCT) patients, but currently used risk scores in the pre-transplantation workup are still underestimating physical activity as a prognostic factor.

Aim

To examine the physical condition, muscle function, blood inflammation and training adherence of alloSCT patients during inpatient time to identify potential biomarkers associated with development of myopathy and sarcopenia.

Methods

Patients undergoing alloSCT were examined at four time points (T0: before alloSCT; Tha: hospital admission; T1: engraftment; T2: inpatient discharge). T0 included cardiopulmonary performance, body composition, grip and knee strength, motor skill tests (One-leg stand/Tinetti/Chair-rising), blood sampling (blood cell profiling and inflammation targets (Kynurenin/high sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hsCRP)/Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha)/Musclin/Galectin-3) and quality of life, state of health, fatigue, muscle weakness and physical activity by questionnaires (IPAQ/BSA/SARC-F/Fatigue). At T1 and T2, blood samples, grip strength and motor skill tests were repeated. Glucocorticoid dose and daily physical activity were documented during inpatient stay.

Results

26 of 35 included patients (4 females; age 55.58 ± 12.32 years; BMI 24.70 ± 3.27 kg/m2; VO2peak 16.55 ± 4.06 ml/min/kg) could proceed to alloSCT. Grip strength and Tinetti decreased from T0 until T2, no difference in Chair-rising test, One-leg and Tandem stand. All patients engrafted after 24.9 days ± 3.9 days. HsCRP and Kynurenine increased from T0 to T1, decreased at T2. TNF-alpha (T0vsT2/T1vsT2) and Musclin (T0vsT1) decreased. At T2, Galectin-3 was higher compared to T0/T1. Correlation analysis of grip strength and inflammatory markers revealed a positive correlation with TNF-alpha at T2. 50% of patients documented physical activity and questionnaire and reported a 50%-reduction of daily endurance and strength training between T1 to T2.

Conclusion

Allogeneic stem-cell transplantation is associated with immune system vulnerability due to conditioning, increased inflammation and fatigue, and loss of muscle strength and function. In addition to hsCRP, Kynurenine seems to be a reliable biomarker to monitor acute and regenerative inflammation status of alloSCT patients, while Musclin and Galectin-3 may be added to physiological assessment regarding myopathy and sarcopenia. Grip strength and daily activity level should be documented by professionals to identify risk patients early and support them with optimal (exercise) therapy.
Adenoviral-vectored epigraph vaccine elicits robust, durable, and protective immunity against H3 influenza A virus in swine
Authors: Petro-Turnquist Erika , Pekarek Matthew , Jeanjaquet Nicholas , Wooledge Cedric , Steffen David , Vu Hiep , Weaver Eric A.
Published: May 2023

Current methods of vaccination against swine Influenza A Virus (IAV-S) in pigs are infrequently updated, induce strain-specific responses, and have a limited duration of protection. Here, we characterize the onset and duration of adaptive immune responses after vaccination with an adenoviral-vectored Epigraph vaccine. In this longitudinal study we observed robust and durable antibody responses that remained above protective titers six months after vaccination. We further identified stable levels of antigen-specific T cell responses that remained detectable in the absence of antigen stimulation. Antibody isotyping revealed robust class switching from IgM to IgG induced by Epigraph vaccination, while the commercial comparator vaccine failed to induce strong antibody class switching. Swine were challenged six months after initial vaccination, and Epigraph-vaccinated animals demonstrated significant protection from microscopic lesion development in the trachea and lungs, reduced duration of viral shedding, lower presence of infectious virus and viral antigens in the lungs, and significant recall of antigen-specific T cell responses following challenge. The results obtained from this study are useful in determining the kinetics of adaptive immune responses after vaccination with adjuvanted whole inactivated virus vaccines compared to adenoviral vectored vaccines and contribute to the continued efforts of creating a universal IAV-S vaccine.
Recent advances in ZBP1-derived PANoptosis against viral infections
Authors: Oh SuHyeon , Lee SangJoon
Published: May 2023

Innate immunity is an important first line of defense against pathogens, including viruses. These pathogen- and damage-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs and DAMPs, respectively), resulting in the induction of inflammatory cell death, are detected by specific innate immune sensors. Recently, Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1), also called the DNA-dependent activator of IFN regulatory factor (DAI) or DLM1, is reported to regulate inflammatory cell death as a central mediator during viral infection. ZBP1 is an interferon (IFN)-inducible gene that contains two Z-form nucleic acid-binding domains (Zα1 and Zα2) in the N-terminus and two receptor-interacting protein homotypic interaction motifs (RHIM1 and RHIM2) in the middle, which interact with other proteins with the RHIM domain. By sensing the entry of viral RNA, ZBP1 induces PANoptosis, which protects host cells against viral infections, such as influenza A virus (IAV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV1). However, some viruses, particularly coronaviruses (CoVs), induce PANoptosis to hyperactivate the immune system, leading to cytokine storm, organ failure, tissue damage, and even death. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanism of ZBP1-derived PANoptosis and pro-inflammatory cytokines that influence the double-edged sword of results in the host cell. Understanding the ZBP1-derived PANoptosis mechanism may be critical for improving therapeutic strategies.
Dietary yeast glycoprotein supplementation improves the growth performance, intestinal health and disease resistance of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) fed low-fishmeal diets
Authors: Cai Wanjie , Fu Lele , Liu Haokun , Yi Jianhua , Yang Fan , Hua Luohai , He Linyue , Han Dong , Zhu Xiaoming , Yang Yunxia , Jin Junyan , Dai Jinjun , Xie Shouqi
Published: May 2023

The active ingredients extracted from yeast are important for regulating animal health. The aim of the current research was to explore the impacts of dietary yeast glycoprotein (YG) on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, antioxidant capacity, immunity and disease resistance of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). A total of 375 juvenile fish (6.00 ± 0.03 g) were allocated into 15 fiberglass tanks. Triplicate tanks were assigned to each diet. The dietary YG inclusion was as follows: the first group was given a high fishmeal diet (40% fishmeal, 0% YG) (FM) and the second group was given a low fishmeal diet (30% fishmeal and 15% soybean meal, 0% YG) (LFM). The fish in the third, fourth and fifth groups were fed the LFM diet supplemented with 0.5% (LFM+YG0.5), 1.0% (LFM+YG1.0) and 2.0% (LFM+YG2.0) YG, respectively. After a 60- day feeding trial, a challenge test using A. hydrophila was carried out. The results showed that the final body weight (FBW) and weight gain rate (WGR) in the LFM+YG2.0 group were significantly higher than those in the LFM group and were no significantly different from those in the FM group. This may be partially related to the activation of the target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathway. Dietary YG supplementation enhanced intestinal physical barriers by upregulating the intestinal tight junction protein related genes (claudin1, occludin and zo2) and improving the structural integrity of the gut, which may be partially associated with AMPK signaling pathway. Moreover, dietary YG increased the antioxidant capacity in the gut, upregulated intestinal anti-inflammatory factors (il-10, il1-1β and tgf-β) and downregulated proinflammatory factors (il-1β and il-8), which may be partially related to the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathways. The results of the challenge test indicated that dietary supplementation with 0.5 or 1.0% YG can increase the disease tolerance of largemouth bass against A. hydrophila. In conclusion, the present results indicated that dietary supplementation with YG promotes the growth performance, intestinal immunity, physical barriers and antioxidant capacity of largemouth bass. In addition, 1.0% of dietary YG is recommended for largemouth bass based on the present results.
Volume imaging to interrogate cancer cell-tumor microenvironment interactions in space and time
Authors: Almagro Jorge , Messal Hendrik A.
Published: May 2023

Volume imaging visualizes the three-dimensional (3D) complexity of tumors to unravel the dynamic crosstalk between cancer cells and the heterogeneous landscape of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Tissue clearing and intravital microscopy (IVM) constitute rapidly progressing technologies to study the architectural context of such interactions. Tissue clearing enables high-resolution imaging of large samples, allowing for the characterization of entire tumors and even organs and organisms with tumors. With IVM, the dynamic engagement between cancer cells and the TME can be visualized in 3D over time, allowing for acquisition of 4D data. Together, tissue clearing and IVM have been critical in the examination of cancer-TME interactions and have drastically advanced our knowledge in fundamental cancer research and clinical oncology. This review provides an overview of the current technical repertoire of fluorescence volume imaging technologies to study cancer and the TME, and discusses how their recent applications have been utilized to advance our fundamental understanding of tumor architecture, stromal and immune infiltration, vascularization and innervation, and to explore avenues for immunotherapy and optimized chemotherapy delivery.
Conversion of primary liver cancer after targeted therapy for liver cancer combined with AFP-targeted CAR T-cell therapy: a case report
Authors: Wang Yun , Zhao Yan , Li Miaoling , Hou Huilian , Jian Zhijie , Li Weizhi , Li Peijie , Ma Fuquan , Liu Mengying , Liu Haibo , Xue Hui
Published: May 2023

Primary liver cancer (PLC) that originates in the liver is a malignant tumor with the worst prognosis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of PLC. Most PLC cases are diagnosed at advanced stages mainly due to their insidious onset and rapid progression. Patients with PLC undergo surgical intervention or localized treatment, but their survival is often affected by its high relapse rate. Medical treatment is the primary option for patients with liver cancer, especially with advanced extrahepatic metastases. Molecular targeted therapy exerts an anti-tumor effect by acting on various signaling pathways involved in molecular pathogenesis; however, high drug resistance and low therapeutic responsiveness of PLC to molecular targets challenge the treatment option. In recent years, after surgical intervention, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and/or molecular targeted therapy, autologous cell immunotherapy has been adopted for PLC. As a typical autologous cell immunotherapy, CAR T-cell therapy uses genetically modified T cells to express tumor-specific chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). Its targeting ability, persistent nature, and tumor-killing function result in a significant impact on the treatment of hematological tumors. However, no breakthrough has happened in the research specific to the curation of lung cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and other common solid tumors. In this context, a combination of molecular targeted therapy and CAR T-cell therapy was used to treat a patient with advanced HCC to achieve a partial remission(PR) and facilitate further liver transplantation.
Prognostic impact of the post-treatment T cell composition and spatial organization in soft tissue sarcoma patients treated with neoadjuvant hyperthermic radio(chemo)therapy
Authors: Rupp Luise , Resag Antonia , Potkrajcic Vlatko , Warm Verena , Wehner Rebekka , Jöhrens Korinna , Bösmüller Hans , Eckert Franziska , Schmitz Marc
Published: May 2023

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) form a heterogeneous group of tumors sharing a mesenchymal origin. Despite good local control of the disease, the occurrence of distant metastases often limits survival of STS patients with localized, high-risk tumors of the extremities. Accumulating evidence suggests a central role for the tumor immune microenvironment in determining the clinical outcome and response to therapy. Thus, it has been reported that STS patients with a high immune signature and especially presence of B cells and tertiary lymphoid structures display improved overall survival and response to checkpoint inhibitor treatment. Here, we explored the effect of curative multimodal therapy on the T cell landscape of STS using multiplex immunohistochemistry. We analyzed the phenotype, frequency, and spatial distribution of STS-infiltrating CD8+T cells by staining for CD8, 4-1BB, Granzyme B, Ki67, PD-1, and LAG-3 as well as CD3+T helper cells using a panel consisting of CD3, T-bet, GATA3, RORγT, FoxP3, and Ki67. All patients received neoadjuvant radiotherapy plus locoregional hyperthermia with or without chemotherapy. While the treatment-naïve biopsy sample allows an analysis of baseline T cell infiltration levels, both intra- and peritumoral areas of the matched resected tissue were analyzed to assess composition and spatial distribution of the T cell compartment and its therapeutic modulation. Generally, post-treatment tissues displayed lower frequencies of CD3+and CD8+T cells. Association with clinical data revealed that higher post-treatment frequencies of peritumoral and intratumoral CD3+T cells and intratumoral PD-1+CD8+T cells were significantly associated with improved disease-free survival (DFS), while these densities had no prognostic significance in the biopsy. Upon spatial analysis, a high ratio of intratumoral to peritumoral CD8+T cells emerged as an independent prognostic marker for longer DFS. These results indicate that the STS T cell landscape is altered by multimodal therapy and may influence the clinical outcome of patients. An enhanced understanding of the STS immune architecture and its modulation by neoadjuvant therapy may pave the way towards novel treatment modalities and improve the long-term clinical outcome of STS patients.
Chicken adaptive response to nutrient density: immune function change revealed by transcriptomic analysis of spleen
Authors: Zhou Yan , Cao Dingguo , Liu Jie , Li Fuwei , Han Haixia , Lei Qiuxia , Liu Wei , Li Dapeng , Wang Jie
Published: May 2023

Feed accounts for the largest portion (65-70%) of poultry production costs. The feed formulation is generally improved to efficiently meet the nutritional needs of chickens by reducing the proportion of crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) levels in the diet. Although many studies have investigated the production performance during dietary restriction, there is a lack of research on the mechanisms by which immune cell function is altered. This study examined the effects of ME and CP restriction in the chicken diet on serum immunoglobulins and expression of immune function genes in spleen. Changes in serum immunoglobulins and immune-related gene expression were analyzed in 216 YS-909 broilers fed with 9 different dietary treatments, including experimental treatment diets containing low, standard, and high levels of ME or CP in the diet. At 42 days of age, serum immunoglobulins and expression of spleen immune genes in 6 female chickens selected randomly from each dietary treatment (3×3 factorial arrangement) group were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and transcriptomic analysis using RNA sequencing, respectively. The results showed that the IgM level in the low ME group chickens was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that in other groups. In addition, immune-related genes, such as MX1, USP18, TLR4, IFNG and IL18 were significantly upregulated when the dietary nutrient density was reduced, which may put the body in an inflammatory state. This study provided general information on the molecular mechanism of the spleen immune response to variable nutrient density.
Macrophages induce gingival destruction via Piezo1-mediated MMPs-degrading collagens in periodontitis
Authors: Zhao Tong , Chu Zhuangzhuang , Chu Catherine Huihan , Dong Shuo , Li Guoqing , Wu Jin , Tang Chunbo
Published: May 2023

Macrophages are an integral part of the innate immune response in periodontal tissue and play a crucial role in the progression of periodontitis. Here we reported that macrophages also provoke periodontitis-induced gingival destruction through Piezol-mediated collagen degradation. We discovered that the PIEZO1 expression was markedly elevated in patients with periodontitis through transcriptomic profiling. Moreover, Piezo1 promoted macrophage polarization toward the M1 type in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and induced production of proinflammatory cytokines, which in turn stimulated production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) leading to collagen degradation. Our study suggests that Piezol might be a potential therapeutic target for treating periodontitis-induced gingival destruction.
Submarine canyons as key habitats to preserve Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus) populations in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Chicote Carla A. , Amigó Natalia , Gazo Manel
Published: May 2023

This paper summarises the occurrence of Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus) over 12 years (2009 to 2021) in the northwestern Mediterranean. The study was conducted off the central coast of Catalonia (NE Spain) in an area covering 8,026 km2 and featuring a system of submarine canyons. The habitat is suitable for a wide diversity of species, including deep-diving cetaceans. In addition, a different dataset from other projects was included to compare distances to the coast from different periods. A visual effort of 8,756 km was carried out with the recording of 17 Risso’s dolphin sightings. The relative mean density of Risso’s dolphin was 0.0078 individuals/km2 (SD 0.1, n = 17), and the densities were higher in the southern canyons than in the northern canyons. Furthermore, the distance to the coast and the depth of any sighting were compared by gathering data from different periods and surveys (first period 1985–2014; second period 2016–2021) with 34 sightings analysed. Significant differences were found related to the distance to the coast, showing a displacement of the animals to more pelagic areas between periods. The spatial distribution of Risso’s dolphins was investigated by applying a generalized additive model based on sighting data collected during standardized vessel surveys. Four predictive variables were considered, taking into account the local physiographical features. The model showed that the spatial distribution of Risso’s dolphin in the area was related to the slope and slope variation. The species showed preferences for offshore areas as significant differences were obtained in terms of the distance of sightings to the coast. This paper provides new insights into the distribution of Risso’s dolphin in the central western Mediterranean Sea and identifies the submarine canyons of northern Catalonia as an essential habitat for the species.
Numerical and experimental investigations of hydrodynamics of a fully-enclosed pile-net aquaculture pen in regular waves
Authors: Cui Yong , Wang Gang , Guan Chang-tao
Published: May 2023

Large-scale aquaculture pen is one of the essential modes of offshore aquaculture being explored in recent years. In contrast to cage farming, the advantages are more significant as the larger cultural space for fish swimming, the closer-to-nature environment, and the improved ecological quality of fish. As a novel offshore aquaculture structure, fully-enclosed pile-net aquaculture pens (FPAPs) are generally deployed in exposed oceans, where severe waves and currents are of great dominance. The hydrodynamic characteristics of FPAPs in offshore areas deserve further investigation. In this paper, the numerical model of a typical FPAP in waves is proposed based on the finite element method (FEM), then wave loads on and induced motion responses of the FPAP are analyzed. The results show that the maximum loads on the structure and the maximum displacement of piles are closely proportional to the wave height. Secondly, the maximum stress of nets decreases as the embedded depth increases, while the deformation of nets tends to rise with the increase of pile spacing. At last, several structural optimal patterns are given to improve the safety of pen facilities. This work has laid a solid scientific foundation for designs and optimizations of FPAPs in the future.
Azithromycin-carrying and microtubule-orientated biomimetic poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffolds for eyelid reconstruction
Authors: Xu Peifang , Chen Pengjie , Gao Qi , Sun Yiming , Cao Jing , Wu Han , Ye Juan
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Tarsal plate repair is the major challenge of eyelid reconstruction for the oculoplastic surgeon. The ideal synthetic tarsal plate substitute should imitate the microstructure and mechanical strength of the natural eyelid. The aim of this work was to develop a novel bionic substitute for eyelid reconstruction.

Methods

Three types of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds (random, oriented, and azithromycin-loaded oriented scaffolds) were prepared using an improved thermal-induced phase separation technique. The microstructure of the scaffolds was examined by scanning electron microscopy. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed using scaffold extracts. Fibroblast and primary rat meibomian gland epithelial cells (rMGCs) were cultured within the scaffolds, and their behavior was observed using fluorescence staining. Three types of PLGA scaffolds were implanted into rabbit eyelid defect in vivo to evaluate their inductive tissue repair function.

Results

We successfully fabricated three types of PLGA scaffolds with varying pore architectures, and the axially aligned scaffold demonstrated interconnected and vertically parallel channels. In vitro cytotoxicity tests using scaffold extracts revealed no apparent cytotoxicity. Fluorescence staining showed that both Fibroblast and rMGCs could adhere well onto the pore walls, with fibroblast elongating along the axially aligned porous structure. At 8 weeks post-implantation, all scaffolds were well integrated by fibrovascular tissue. The axially aligned scaffold groups exhibited faster degradation compared to the random scaffold group, with smaller fragments surrounded by mature collagen fibers.

Conclusion

The study found that the axially aligned scaffolds could well support and guide cellular activities in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the axially aligned scaffold group showed a faster degradation rate with a matched integration rate compared to the random scaffold group. The findings suggest that the oriented scaffold is a promising alternative for eyelid tarsal plate substitutes.
Association of serum uric acid-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in American adults: a population-based analysis
Authors: Xie Yilian , Huang Kai , Zhang Xiangyu , Wu Zhouxiao , Wu Yiyi , Chu Jinguo , Kong Weiliang , Qian Guoqing
Published: May 2023

Objective

Non-invasive disease indicators are currently limited and need further research due to the increased non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) prevalence worldwide. The serum uric acid-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (UHR) has been recognized as a novel inflammatory and metabolic marker. Herein, we explored the correlation between UHR and the risk of NAFLD in-depth.

Methods

A total of 3,766 participants were included in our survey, and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 cycle provided the cross-sectional study population. Weighted multivariable logistic regression and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to assess the association between the UHR and the odds of NAFLD and liver steatosis and fibrosis severity, respectively. Moreover, we explored the non-linear relationship between the UHR and NAFLD by the generalized additive model.

Results

NAFLD probabilities were statistically demonstrated to be positively correlated with the UHR (OR = 1.331 per SD increase, 95% CI: 1.100, 1.611). The positive connection of the UHR with NAFLD risk persisted significantly in female subjects but not in male subjects in subgroup analyses stratified by gender. The non-linear relationship analysis demonstrated that a UHR between ~20 and 30% suggested a saturation effect of NAFLD risk. Furthermore, a dramatically positive correlation was found between the UHR and hepatic steatosis severity but not fibrosis. Finally, the receiver operating characteristic analysis suggested that UHR had a better predictive value for NAFLD than either serum uric acid (sUA) or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) alone [UHR (area under curve): 0.6910; 95% CI: 0.6737–0.7083; P < 0.0001].

Conclusion

Our investigation revealed that the elevated UHR level was independently related to an increased NAFLD risk and the severity of liver steatosis in American individuals. The correlation differed according to sex. This non-invasive indicator may enhance the capacity to predict the onset of NAFLD and may uncover alternative therapeutic interventional targets.
Gut microbiome profiling of neonates using Nanopore MinION and Illumina MiSeq sequencing
Authors: Cha Teahyen , Kim Hoo Hugo , Keum Jihyun , Kwak Min-Jin , Park Jae Yong , Hoh Jeong Kyu , Kim Chang-Ryul , Jeon Byong-Hun , Park Hyun-Kyung
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the difference in gut microbiomes between preterm and term infants using third-generation long-read sequencing (Oxford Nanopore Technologies, ONT) compared with an established gold standard, Illumina (second-generation short-read sequencing). A total of 69 fecal samples from 51 term (T) and preterm (P) infants were collected at 7 and 28 days of life. Gut colonization profiling was performed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing using ONT. We used Illumina to validate and compare the patterns in 13 neonates. Using bioinformatic analysis, we identified features that differed between P and T. Both T1 and P1 microbiomes were dominated by Firmicutes (Staphylococcus and Enterococcus), whereas sequentially showed dominant transitions to Lactobacillus (p < 0.001) and Streptococcus in T2 (p = 0.001), and pathogenic bacteria (Klebsiella) in P2 (p = 0.001). The abundance of beneficial bacteria (Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus) increased in T2 (p = 0.026 and p < 0.001, respectively). These assignments were correlated with the abundance at the species-level. Bacterial α-diversity increased in T (p = 0.005) but not in P (p = 0.156), and P2 showed distinct β-diversity clustering than T2 (p = 0.001). The ONT reliably identified pathogenic bacteria at the genus level, and taxonomic profiles were comparable to those identified by Illumina at the genus level. This study shows that ONT and Illumina are highly correlated. P and T had different microbiome profiles, and the α- and β-diversity varied. ONT sequencing has potential for pathogen detection in neonates in clinical settings.
Effects of sulfadiazine and Cu on soil potential nitrification and ammonia-oxidizing archaea and bacteria communities across different soils
Authors: Hou Guoqin , Wazir Zafran Gul , Liu Jing , Wang Guizhen , Rong Fangxu , Xu Yuzhi , Li Mingyue , Liu Kai , Liu Aijv , Liu Hongliang , Wang Fayuan
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Sulfadiazine (SDZ) and copper (Cu) are frequently detected in agricultural soils, but little is known on their single or combined impact on ammonia oxidizing microbial community and function across different soils.

Methods

In this study, a microcosm was conducted to distinguish the microbial ecotoxicity of SDZ and Cu across different soils by analyzing soil potential nitrification rate (PNR) and the amoA gene sequences.

Results

The results showed that the single spiking of SDZ caused a consistent decrease of soil PNR among three tested soils, but no consistent synergistic inhibition of SDZ and Cu was observed across these soils. Moreover, across three tested soils, the distinct responses to the single or joint exposure of SDZ and Cu were found in amoA gene abundance, and diversity as well as the identified genus taxa of ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB). Meanwhile, only the specific genus taxa of AOA or AOB consistently corresponded to the variation of soil PNR across different treated soils. The further principal component analysis (PCA) exhibited that the variable influence of SDZ and Cu on ammonia oxidizing microbial community and function was greatly dependent on soil type.

Discussion

Therefore, in addition to ecological functionality and the specific prokaryotic taxa, soil microbial ecotoxicity of SDZ and Cu also was dependent on edaphic factors derived from soil types. This study proposes an integrative assessment of soil properties and multiple microbial targets to soil contamination management.
Oxford nanopore long-read sequencing enables the generation of complete bacterial and plasmid genomes without short-read sequencing
Authors: Zhao Wenxuan , Zeng Wei , Pang Bo , Luo Ming , Peng Yao , Xu Jialiang , Kan Biao , Li Zhenpeng , Lu Xin
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Genome-based analysis is crucial in monitoring antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB)and antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs). Short-read sequencing is typically used to obtain incomplete draft genomes, while long-read sequencing can obtain genomes of multidrug resistance (MDR) plasmids and track the transmission of plasmid-borne antimicrobial resistance genes in bacteria. However, long-read sequencing suffers from low-accuracy base calling, and short-read sequencing is often required to improve genome accuracy. This increases costs and turnaround time.

Methods

In this study, a novel ONT sequencing method is described, which uses the latest ONT chemistry with improved accuracy to assemble genomes of MDR strains and plasmids from long-read sequencing data only. Three strains of Salmonella carrying MDR plasmids were sequenced using the ONT SQK-LSK114 kit with flow cell R10.4.1, and de novo genome assembly was performed with average read accuracy (Q > 10) of 98.9%.

Results and Discussion

For a 5-Mb-long bacterial genome, finished genome sequences with accuracy of >99.99% could be obtained at 75× sequencing coverage depth using Flye and Medaka software. Thus, this new ONT method greatly improves base-calling accuracy, allowing for the de novo assembly of high-quality finished bacterial or plasmid genomes without the need for short-read sequencing. This saves both money and time and supports the application of ONT data in critical genome-based epidemiological analyses. The novel ONT approach described in this study can take the place of traditional combination genome assembly based on short- and long-read sequencing, enabling pangenomic analyses based on high-quality complete bacterial and plasmid genomes to monitor the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes.
Construction of VSVΔ51M oncolytic virus expressing human interleukin-12
Authors: Abdulal Rwaa H. , Malki Jana S. , Ghazal Ezdehar , Alsaieedi Ahdab A. , Almahboub Sarah A. , Khan Muhammad Yasir , Alsulaiman Reem M. , Ghaith Mazen M. , Abujamel Turki S. , Ganash Magdah , Mahmoud Ahmad Bakur , Alkayyal Almohanad A. , Hashem Anwar M.
Published: May 2023

The use of oncolytic viruses (OVs) in combination with cytokines, such as IL-12, is a promising approach for cancer treatment that addresses the limitations of current standard treatments and traditional cancer immunotherapies. IL-12, a proinflammatory cytokine, triggers intracellular signaling pathways that lead to increased apoptosis of tumor cells and enhanced antitumor activity of immune cells via IFN-γ induction, making this cytokine a promising candidate for cancer therapy. Targeted expression of IL-12 within tumors has been shown to play a crucial role in tumor eradication. The recent development of oncolytic viruses enables targeted delivery and expression of IL-12 at the tumor site, thereby addressing the systemic toxicities associated with traditional cancer therapy. In this study, we constructed an oncolytic virus, VSVΔ51M, based on the commercially available VSV wild-type backbone and further modified it to express human IL-12. Our preclinical data confirmed the safety and limited toxicity of the modified virus, VSV-Δ51M-hIL-12, supporting its potential use for clinical development.
Sleep-related rhythmic movement disorder in children: a mini-review
Authors: Lam Nhi , Veeravigrom Montida
Published: May 2023

Sleep-related rhythmic movement disorder (SRRMD) occurs in both infants and children. This disorder rarely occurs or persists in adolescence or adulthood. Rhythmic movement during sleep in children is often asymptomatic and considered a benign condition. It is classified as SRRMD when movement significantly disrupts sleep, results in daytime functional impairment, or causes self-inflicted body injury. Several studies have demonstrated that SRRMD occurs in all sleep stages. Few studies have investigated rhythmic movement disorder (RMD) in children. SRRMD is a clinical diagnosis supported by home video recordings. When the clinical history is insufficient to provide a definitive diagnosis of SRRMD, and other sleep-related conditions or seizure disorders are suspected, video-polysomnography is indicated. There are currently no clinical guidelines for treating SRRMD.
Food consumption based on processing level (according to Nova system) during the COVID-19 pandemic among adolescents with immunocompromised conditions: a case-control study
Authors: Esteves Gabriel P. , Mazzolani Bruna Caruso , Smaira Fabiana Infante , Santo André Heloísa C. , Iraha Amanda Yuri , Astley Camilla , Marques Isabela Gouveia , Amarante Milla Cordeiro , Rezende Nathalia Saffioti , Sieczkowska Sofia Mendes , Franco Tathiane Christine , do Amaral Miranda Luana Cristina , Lindoso Lívia , Helito Alberto Carame , Oba Jane , Queiroz Ligia Bruni , Pereira Rosa Maria R. , Campos Lucia Maria A. , Aikawa Nadia E. , Roschel Hamilton , Silva Clovis A. , Gualano Bruno
Published: May 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic impacts on eating habits among adolescents may be more relevant in pediatric patients with immunocompromised chronic diseases. This case-control study conducted between June and October 2020 aimed to: (i) describe dietary patterns of adolescents with chronic conditions compared to healthy controls and (ii) determine associations between food consumption, health-related quality of life (HRQL) and sleep quality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants (184 immunocompromised and 58 healthy adolescents, aged 14.3 [SD 2.5]) responded to HRQL and sleep validated instruments (PedsQL and PSQI) and three 24 h food recalls via online software. Adjusted linear and logistic regressions were used to assess differences in dietary patterns and associations between food consumption (according to Nova classification) and HRQL and sleep quality. Adolescents with gastrohepatic, rheumatic, and kidney diseases had an improved dietary pattern vs. their healthy peers, showing greater consumption of unprocessed and minimally processed foods (unstandardized coefficient (b) = 7.35%[95%CI 1.59; 13.1]; b = 15.10%[95%CI 7.00; 23.1]; and b = 11.2%[95%CI 5.68; 16.8]), and lower consumption of ultraprocessed foods (b = −7.53%[95%CI-12.90; −2.18]; b = −11.4%[95%CI-18.90; −3.94]; b = −10.8%[95%CI-16.00; −5.68]). Consumption of culinary ingredients was associated with reduced psychological HRQL in controls (standardized coefficient (β) = −0.26[95%CI-0.52; −0.004]), and processed food consumption was associated with improved sleep latency in immunocompromised participants (β = 0.16[95%CI 0.01; 0.31]). These findings suggest diet quality may play a role in HRQL and sleep quality in this population, and may be relevant for clinical practitioners and policy makers when considering the importance of dietary quality in immunocompromised youths.
Comparison of physicochemical and volatile flavor properties of neon flying squid (Ommastrephes bartramii), jumbo squid (Dosidicus gigas), and Argentine shortfin squid (Illex argentinus) during chilled storage
Authors: Huo Jiancong , Yao Hui , Li Jiagen , Wang Jinmei , Benjakul Soottawat , Zhang Bin
Published: May 2023

The difference and similarities in the physicochemical and volatile flavor properties were determined in neon flying squid (OB), jumbo squid (DG), and Argentine squid (IA) mantles during 8 days of chilled storage. Physicochemical analysis indicated the chilled conditions induced rapid increases in pH value, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN), and carbonyl and malondialdehyde (MDA) content of the three squid species. In addition, myofibrillar protein (MP) content decreased and springiness in the OB, DG, and IA mantle samples declined with the extension of storage time. Importantly, OB mantles presented less chemical stability than the other two squid samples during 8 days of chilled storage. In addition, histological observations suggest DG mantle tissues presented more compact structures than those of the other two samples. Volatile flavor analysis showed propionaldehyde, 3-pentanone, trimethylamine, 3-furanmethanol, 2-methyl butyric acid, and 2-butanone were highly abundant in the squid mantles after storage, likely resulting from decomposition, oxidation, and degradation of proteins and lipids in the squid mantle, which varied with different squid species. The findings provide insight into the performance of three squid species during chilled storage.