bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insecticidal Activity of Bacillus cereus against the Spotted Wing Drosophila
Authors: He Nana , Zhou shaojie , Zhou Chuanming , Yang Weikang , Zhang Sheng , Yan Deqiang , Guo Yaonan , Ji Xiaowen , Liu Wei
Published: December 2023

Drosophila suzukii (D. suzukii) is a notorious pest that causes devastating damage to thin-skinned fruits because female flies use a serrated ovipositor to pierce the skin of ripening fruits and lay eggs in the flesh with a serrated ovipositor. The current application of insecticides to manage this pest has led to serious resistance and environmental hazards, so there is an urgent need for alternative strategies. In the present work, we reported that identifying a potential entomopathogen Bacillus cereus H1 (B. cereus H1) for D. suzukii from their habitat was lethal to D. suzukii adults following ingestion. First, we isolated and identified an entomopathogen B. cereus H1 from D. suzukii morbid pupae. Next, B. cereus H1 robustly arrested the development of the fly progeny. Moreover, B. cereus H1 exerted an adverse effect on the survival and locomotion of adult flies. Mechanistically, B. cereus H1 disrupted intestinal homeostasis and triggered oxidative innate immunity, resulting in death within 5 days. To the best of our understanding, this study is the first to investigate the role of B. cereus H1 in managing D. suzukii, suggesting that it could be suitable for candidate biopesticides of D. suzukii. Future studies that exploit the mechanism underlying the pathogenicity of B. cereus H1 toward the Spotted Wing Drosophila would improve the knowledge of the ecology of host-entomopathogen interactions in nature.
Relationships Between River and Groundwater Flow in an Alluvial Plain by Time Series Analysis and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Leone Guido , Ginolfi Michele , Esposito Libera , Fiorillo Francesco
Published: December 2023

Alluvial plains represent hydrological systems where the aquifer and the drainage network are strictly in hydraulic communication. In many instances, the stream system represents the primary factor controlling the water table variability and groundwater circulation. When meteoric recharge is scarce, the stream system allows for the aquifer exploitation by pumping wells and affects the propagation of the depression cone by limiting its expansion. In this context, the water table mainly responds to stream discharge variations over time rather than the meteorological input, and this response is smoothed and delayed as the alluvial aquifer acts as a low-pass filter. In this study, we applied statistical methods and numerical modeling to characterize the relationships between the groundwater and the surface-water systems in the Benevento Plain (southern Italy). Time series decomposition and correlation analysis were used to assess whether river flow variability can explain water table variability. Furthermore, the numerical model allows for understanding the specific contribution of the river, meteoric recharge, and pumping on groundwater circulation. Our analysis highlighted that the river controls the overall groundwater circulation and that pumping and meteoric recharge have limited effects. Therefore, abstracted groundwater by pumping has a direct connection with the river. The findings presented in this study are crucial in managing and protecting the Benevento Plain aquifer, which is exploited for both industrial and drinking purposes.
Ti3SiC2-based saturable absorber for passive mode-locking of a fiber laser
Authors: Zhang Zhiming , Sun Xiangzhe , Chen Bing , Zhang Huiyun , Zhang Yuping
Published: December 2023

We report a simple and compact all-fiber erbium-doped mode-locked laser based on a microfiber-based Ti3SiC2 saturable absorber. Self-starting mode locking at 1566 nm in this erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL) was achieved at a threshold pump power of 90 mW, delivering a pulse train with a repetition rate of 3.9 MHz, a pulse width of 13 ns, and a pulse spectral width of 7.4 nm. The findings of this study allow Ti3SiC2 to be added to the growing catalog of nanomaterials for future nonlinear photonics.
Efficacy of ozonated autohemotherapy for improvement of myocardial injury following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Wang Chenhao , Zhu Yi , Liu Wei , Ren Lingyun , Wu Zhouquan , Chen Jingli
Published: December 2023

Purpose: To explore the myocardial protective effect of ozonated autohemotherapy (OA) during the progression of acute traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Methods: Forty patients with acute TBI were recruited and divided into The treatment group (Group OA, n = 20) and the Control group (Group C, n = 20). Patients in Group OA received OA before surgery and on the 1st and 2nd postoperative days, while patients in Group C underwent autologous blood transfusion. Venous blood was collected from all patients before (T0) and after 7 (T1) days of surgery for measurement of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). At T0 and T1, transthoracic cardiac ultrasound was performed to measure left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and venous blood was sampled to determine the contents of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA). NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores were calculated, and other clinical indexes were recorded.
Results: (1) The levels of cTnT at T1 were significantly higher as compared with that at T0 in both groups (P < 0.000). Compared with Group C, a remarkable decline in the content of NT-proBNP was found in Group OA at T1 (P = 0.004). (2) The LVEF (P = 0.01) and serum SOD (P = 0.011) at T1 were significantly increased in Group OA as compared with those in Group C. (3) The length of ICU stay for patients in Group OA was distinctly shorter than that for patients in Group C (P = 0.011).
Conclusion: Perioperative OA treatment can alleviate the secondary myocardial injury during the disease course of TBI, which might be associated with its myocardial protective effect against oxidative stress.
Backcrossing Modulates the Metabolic Profiles of Anthocyanin- Pigmented "Vitamaize" Lines Derived from Elite Maize Lines
Authors: Peniche-Pavía Héctor Arturo , González-Rodríguez Tzitziki , Tiessen Axel , García-Lara Silvero , Winkler Robert
Published: December 2023

We evaluated metabolic differences between the Vitamaize lines (VMLs) derived from backcrossing the pigmented aleurone trait into the CIMMYT Maize Lines (CMLs) and their original CMLs. For a comprehensive chemical characterization, we applied direct infusion mass spectrometry (DIMS) analyses, carotenoid profiling, total anthocyanins content (TAC) determination, and biochemical evaluation of the QPM (quality protein maize) endosperm trait. DIMS data indicate higher hexoses and trigonelline content for most VMLs; the carotenoid profile revealed a decrease in β-cryptoxanthin to less than half of the original parent content for two VMLs but an augmentation for one VML. The pigmented aleurone VMLs did not inherit the complex QPM endosperm trait of the QPM CMLs. Except for anthocyanin accumulation, no other metabolites were consistently modified across all the backcross-generated maize lines with a pigmented aleurone trait. Thus, we suggest the use of genetic or molecular markers for future breeding programs.
Highly sensitive Surface Plasmon Resonance for Cancer Cell Biosensor employing MXene and perovskite Heterostructure
Authors: Xu Wentao , Tao Liu , Hassan Ali , Xue Zhenhua , Jin Min , Yang Dongxia , Zhang Yongzhi , Gu Haojie , Han Lei
Published: December 2023

Cancer has become the most serious disease in the world, and achieving rapid and accurate detection has become the focus of research. In this paper, the novel surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based biosensor cancer cells (Jurkat/PC12/HeLa) is presented. The biosensor is based on a hybrid structure of two-dimensional (2D) material with MXene (Ti3C2Tx) and perovskite (MAPbBr3). The Blood (Jurkat), Adrenal Glands (PC12), Cervical (HeLa) cancer cells through the multilayer Ag-ITO thin film caused by the change of reflectivity, so as to calculate the sensitivity and figure of merit (FOM) value. The simulation analysis shows that PC12 has the highest sensitivity in SPR biosensor. When the Ag, ITO and MAPbBr3 are 52 nm, 5 nm, and monolayer, the minimum sensitivity of SPR biosensor is 288.79 °/RIU and by PC12. Compared with the Ag film of traditional SPR biosensors, the PC12 sensitivity of the hybrid structure is increased by 1.89 times. In terms of disease diagnosis, the sensitivity and accuracy of SPR biosensors have been greatly improved, providing a basis for early diagnosis and treatment of diseases. In addition, SPR biosensor hardware provides theoretical support.
Toxicity of External Beam Accelerated Partial-Breast Irradiation (APBI) in Adjuvant Therapy of Early-stage Breast Cancer: Randomized Prospective Study
Authors: Burkon Petr , Selingerova Iveta , Slavik Marek , Holanek Milos , Vrzal Miroslav , Coufal Oldrich , Polachova Katerina , Muller Petr , Slampa Pavel , Kazda Tomas
Published: December 2023

Background: Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is an alternative breast-conserving therapy approach where radiation is delivered in less time compared to whole breast irradiation (WBI), resulting in improved patient convenience, less toxicity, and cost savings. This prospective randomized study compares the external beam APBI with commonly used accelerated WBI in terms of feasibility, safety, tolerance, and cosmetic effects.
Methods: Early breast cancer patients after partial mastectomy were equally randomized into two arms – external APBI and accelerated WBI. External beam technique using available technical innovations commonly used in targeted hypofractionated radiotherapy to minimize irradiated volumes was used. Cosmetics results and toxicity were evaluated using questionnaires, CTCAE criteria, and photo documentation.
Results: The analysis of 84 patients with a median age of 64 years showed significantly fewer acute adverse events in the APBI arm regarding skin reactions, local and general symptoms. A significant difference in favor of the APBI arm in grade ≥2 late skin toxicity was observed (p=0.026). Late toxicity in the breast area (deformation, edema, fibrosis, and pain), affecting the quality of life and cosmetic effect, occurred in 61% and 17% of patients in WBI and APBI arms, respectively. The cosmetic effect was more favorable in the APBI arm, especially 6 to 12 months after the radiotherapy.
Conclusion: External APBI demonstrated better feasibility and less toxicity than the standard regimen in the adjuvant setting for treating early breast cancer patients. The presented study confirmed the level of evidence for establishing the external APBI in daily clinical practice.
Trial registration: NCT06007118
Mitigating Candidiasis with Acarbose by targeting Candida albicans α-Glucosidase: In- silico, In-vitro and Transcriptomic Approaches
Authors: David Helma , Vasudevan Sahana , Solomon Adline Princy
Published: December 2023

Biofilm-associated candidiasis poses a significant challenge in clinical settings due to the limited effectiveness of existing antifungal treatments. The challenges include increased pathogen virulence, multi-drug resistance, and inadequate penetration of antimicrobials into biofilm structures. One potential solution to this problem involves the development of novel drugs that can modulate fungal virulence and biofilm formation, which is essential for pathogenesis. Resistance in Candida albicans is initiated by morphological changes from yeast to hyphal form. This transition triggers a series of events such as cell wall elongation, increased adhesion, invasion of host tissues, pathogenicity, biofilm formation, and the initiation of an immune response. The cell wall is a critical interface for interactions with host cells, primarily through various cell wall proteins, particularly mannoproteins. Thus, cell wall proteins and enzymes are considered potential antifungal targets. In this regard, we explored α-glucosidase as our potential target which plays a crucial role in processing mannoproteins. Previous studies have shown that inhibition of α-glucosidase leads to defects in cell wall integrity, reduced adhesion, diminished secretion of hydrolytic enzymes, alterations in immune recognition, and reduced pathogenicity. Since α-glucosidase, primarily converts carbohydrates, our study focuses on FDA-approved carbohydrate mimic drugs (Glycomimetics) with well-documented applications in various biological contexts. Through virtual screening of 114 FDA-approved carbohydrate-based drugs, a pseudo-sugar Acarbose, emerged as a top hit. Acarbose is known for its pharmacological potential in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus by targeting α-glucosidase. Our preliminary investigations indicate that Acarbose effectively inhibits C. albicans biofilm formation, reduces virulence, impairs morphological switching, and hinders the adhesion and invasion of host cells, all at very low concentrations in the nanomolar range. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis reveals the mechanism of action of Acarbose, highlighting its role in targeting α-glucosidase.
Investigating Genetic Causality: Mendelian Randomization Study on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Asthma, and Osteoarthritis
Authors: Du Kai , Zhang Chen-Yu , Li Ao , Hu Jia-Ze , Guo Ren , Li Shu-Ming
Published: December 2023

Objective
To elucidate the bidirectional causal relationships and mechanisms linking the increasingly prevalent conditions of asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and osteoarthritis (OA).
Methods
This two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) study was implemented to investigate the causal association between asthma, GERD, and OA, including OA [overall, OA of the hip (HOA), and OA of the knee (KOA)], and two-step MR were used to explore possible mechanisms of them. Genetic variants were sourced from the UK Biobank and the EBI database. Various methods, including Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, Weighted Mode, Weighted Median, MR pleiotropy residual sum, and outlier (MR-PRESSO). The False Discovery Rate (FDR) method was used to reduce the risk of false positives further.
Results
Significant bidirectional relationships were found between asthma and GERD, and between GERD and all OA subtypes. Asthma showed bidirectional relationships with overall OA and KOA, but not with HOA. NSAIDs may have a protective role in transitioning from OA to asthma, but its mediating effect in the OA-GERD relationship was inconclusive.
Conclusion
Our study sheds light on the complex causal relationships among asthma, GERD, and OA. The findings emphasize the need for further mechanistic studies and have significant clinical implications.
Assessing the Impact of Family Caregivers in Clinical Encounter Participation on Patient Activation in the Metastatic Breast Cancer Setting
Authors: Henderson Nicole L. , Padalkar Tanvi , Bourne Garrett , Hendrix Emma K. , Williams Courtney P. , Odom J. Nicholas , Triebel Kristen , Rocque Gabrielle
Published: December 2023

Objective
Caregivers support individuals undergoing cancer treatment by assisting with activities, managing care, navigating healthcare systems, and communicating with care teams. We explored the quantity and quality of caregiver participation during recorded clinical appointments in women with metastatic breast cancer.
Methods
This was a convergent parallel mixed methods study. Caregiver participation quality was operationalized using a summative thematic content analysis to identify and sum caregiver roles performed during appointments. Caregiver participation quantity was measured by calculating the proportion of speaking time. Participation quality and quantity were compared to patient activation, assessed using the Patient Activation Measure.
Results
Fifty-three clinical encounters were recorded. Identified caregiver roles included: General Support; Management of Treatment or Medication; Treatment History; Decision-Making; Insurance or Money; Pharmacy; Scheduling; Travel Concerns; General Cancer Understanding; Patient Specific Cancer Understanding; Caregiver-Initiated or Emphasis on Symptom Severity; and Caregiver Back-Up of Patient Symptom Description. Caregivers averaged 5 roles (SD 3): 48% of patients had low quality (< 5 roles) and 52% had high quality (> 6 roles). Regarding quantity, caregivers spoke on average for 4% of the encounter, with 60% of patients having low quantity (< 4%) and 40% of patients having high quantity (> 4%). Greater quality and quantity of caregiver participation was associated with greater patient activation.
Conclusions
Caregivers perform a variety of roles during oncological decision-making visits aiding both patient and provider. Greater participation in terms of quantity and quality by the caregiver was associated with greater patient activism, indicating a need for better integration of the caregiver in clinical decision-making environments.
In vivo brain frontal and occipital glutathione levels are unchanged in autistic adults
Authors: Pereira Andreia C. , Leonard Alison , Velthuis Hester , Wong Nichol M. L. , Ponteduro Francesca M. , Dimitrov Mihail , Ellis Claire L. , Kowalewski Lukasz , Lythgoe David J. , Rotaru Diana-Georgina , Edden Richard A. E. , Ivin Glynis , Pretzsch Charlotte M. , Daly Eileen , Murphy Declan G. M. , McAlonan Gráinne M.
Published: December 2023

Background
The neurobiological underpinnings of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are diverse and likely multifactorial. One possible mechanism is increased oxidative stress leading to altered neurodevelopment and brain function. However, this hypothesis has mostly been tested in post-mortem studies. So far, available in vivo studies in autistic individuals have reported no differences in glutathione (GSH) levels in frontal, occipital, and subcortical regions. However, these studies were limited by the technically challenging quantification of GSH, the main brain antioxidant molecule. This study aimed to overcome previous studies limitations by using GSH-tailored spectroscopy sequences and optimised quantification methodology to provide clarity on GSH levels in autistic adults.
Methods
We used spectral editing proton-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) combined with linear combination model fitting to quantify GSH in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC) and medial occipital cortex (mOCC) of autistic and non-autistic adults (male and female). We compared GSH levels between groups, also considering biological sex effects. We also examined correlations between GSH and current autism symptoms, measured using the Autism Quotient (AQ).
Results
Data were available from 31 adult autistic participants (24 males, 7 females) and 40 non-autistic participants (21 males, 16 females); the largest sample to date. The GSH levels did not differ between groups in either region. No biological sex-effects or correlations with AQ were observed.
Limitations
: Our study was limited to two brain regions, but GSH levels may be altered in other regions. Additionally, we do not know if our findings generalise to other cohorts (e.g. those with intellectual disability or epilepsy). Oxidative stress can be captured more comprehensively through the ratio of GSH to glutathione disulphide (GSSG), however GSSG concentration is not detectable with 1H-MRS, thus we cannot rule out the possibility that GSSG levels, and consequently GSH/GSSG ratios were altered in this ASD cohort.
Conclusions
GSH levels as measured using 1H-MRS are unaltered in the DMPFC and mOCC regions of autistic adults, suggesting that oxidative stress in these cortical regions is not a marked neurobiological signature of ASD.
MRI grading for informed clinical decision-making in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome patients with cervical lesions
Authors: Jiang Anqi , Chen Yiqing , Ning Yan , Yu Bing , Wang Hui , Ma Fenghua , Xu Congjian , Kang Yu
Published: December 2023

Objective:
The preoperative diagnosis and management of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) patients with cervical lesions remains problematic. This study analyzed the associations between pathological types of cervical lesions in PJS patients and their imaging features, aiming to grade the potential malignancy and provide recommendations for clinical decision-making accordingly.
Methods:
A total of 34 PJS patients who attended the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University from October 2017 to August 2023 were included. Two experienced physicians reviewed their MRIs independently.
Results:
Based on pathological diagnosis, the patients were categorized into four groups: normal (n = 4), lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (LEGH, n = 11), atypical lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (aLEGH, n = 8), and gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (G-EAC, n = 11). The mean age of 34 patients was 33.2 ± 8.4 years. Increased vaginal discharge was very common (20/34) and significant difference was observed among the four groups (P = .004). Through observing imaging features, we found statistically significant differences in the extent of lesions (P = .001), distribution of microcysts (P = .001), proportion of microcysts (P < .001) and endometrium invasion (P = .019) among the four groups. Notablely, the solid components and disrupted cervical stromal ring were only found within the aLEGH and G-EAC groups (P < .001). We proposed grading criteria to re-diagnose their images, with an overall consistency rate of 94.1% (32/34). Finally, we applied our grading criteria and corresponding clinical decisions to 2 PJS patients who had not yet undergone biopsy.
Conclusions:
We used MRI to grade the potential malignancy of cervical lesions and proposed appropriate management recommendations for PJS patients, which facilitated the collaboration between radiologists and physicians.
Pest management strategies under changing climates: Targeting life history vulnerabilities in the redlegged earth mite, Halotydeus destructor (Tucker)
Authors: Maino James L. , Umina Paul A. , Pavri Celia , Cheng Xuan , Ridsdill-Smith James
Published: December 2023

As climate change continues to modify temperature and moisture patterns, risks from pests and diseases may change as shifting temperature and rainfall conditions affect the range and activity of insects and diseases. The potential consequences of changing climate on pest management strategies must be understood for control measures to adapt to new environmental conditions. The redlegged earth mite (RLEM; Halotydeus destructor [Tucker]) is a prevalent pest that attacks pastures and crops across southern Australia and is typically controlled by pesticides. TIMERITE® is a pest management strategy focused on timing chemical control of RLEM populations during a critical period of vulnerability in the mite’s lifecycle based on historical climate. In this study, we enhance the TIMERITE® strategy by incorporating dynamic management and climatic conditions. Our findings demonstrate that climate change over the past two decades have generally shifted the optimal control window to earlier in the year, with future changes predicted to further shift optimal timings. Moreover, we extend the optimal control date of TIMERITE® to an optimal control window during spring, which maintains control efficacy against RLEM above 95% of the theoretical maximum. Overall, this research emphasizes the importance of accounting for dynamic environmental responses when developing and implementing pest management strategies to ensure their long-term effectiveness. The increased robustness and flexibility of the updated TIMERITE® strategy will help farmers maintain pest control outcomes while balancing other farm management responsibilities, such as disease and weed management, ultimately leading to cost savings.
Isolation and identification of type 1d CP bovine viral diarrhea virus from Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Zhao Fengmiao , Hao Luyao , Guo Ting , Zhou Yaping , Zhao Hongmei , Gao Yuan , Hao Yongqing
Published: December 2023

Background
In recent years, outbreaks of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in cattle is associated with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). BVDV infection is a persistent global issue, particularly concerning for calves health. Comprehensive epidemiological surveillance and research into its pathogenic characteristics are essential for effective control and prevention of this virus. Despite limited investigation into the epidemiology of BVDV in Inner Mongolia, there is a lack of comprehensive information in this area.
Results
From 2021 to 2022, within cattle farms implementing eradication plans for bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), we detected 33 cases of BVDV nucleic acid positivity out of 103 samples (positive rate 32.04%). We isolated five strains of NCP-type BVDV (separation rate 15.15%) and one strain of CP-type BVDV (separation rate 3.03%). This CP BVDV strain was successfully isolated from the nasal swab of a calf with severe clinical symptoms in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia. Subsequently, we designated this strain as HH839 in this study. Non-cytopathic BVDV strains are common and participate in severe clinical acute infections, whereas cytopathic BVDV strains are rare and usually associated with mucosal disease outbreaks. Therefore, this study determined the biological characteristics of CP BVDV 1d strain HH839 using various assays, including cytopathic conditions, electron microscopy, serum neutralization test, whole-genome sequencing, sequence alignment, and replication kinetics. A cytopathic virus strain was isolated, and viral particles were observed within 40–60 nm using transmission electron microscopy. The growth curve showed that the virus propagated effectively in MDBK cells. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 5’untranslated region (5’UTR) and full-length genome sequences indicated that HH839 belonged to the BVDV-1d group and that the strain was in the same branch and had the closest genetic relationship with BJ-1308 (KT951841.1). New Zealand white rabbits were used to study the pathogenicity of different biotypes of BVDV, including the CP-type BVDV-infected group, NCP-type BVDV-infected group, and CP-type NCP-type BVDV mixed-infected group. The animal infection experiments showed that hematology and histopathology showed different degrees of changes, although the infected rabbits did not show typical disease symptoms.
Conclusion
We isolated a BVDV HH839 strain that can cause severe clinical symptoms in cattle. Genome-wide determination and infection experiments with HH839 provide material to further explore the regional prevalence of BVDV. We propose to reinforce the epidemiological surveillance of this virus.
Comprehensive pan-cancer analysis reveals SIRT5 is a predictive biomarker for prognosis and immunotherapy response
Authors: Ji Yacong , Li Chongyang , Wan Sicheng , Zhang Kui , Liu Yaling , Shi Shaomin
Published: December 2023

Background: SIRT5, a promising therapeutic target, modulates diverse cellular metabolic pathways. Its role in cancer remains elusive, necessitating a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis to elucidate its diagnostic, prognostic, and immunological significance.
Methods: We conducted an extensive investigation into SIRT5's involvement in tumorigenesis, diagnosis, prognosis, metabolic pathways, the immune microenvironment, and therapeutic responses across multiple cancers. Chemical modifiers of SIRT5 expression were explored, along with the relationship between SIRT5 and drug sensitivity. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments assessed SIRT5's role in melanoma.
Results: Differential expression of SIRT5 exhibited early diagnostic potential across various tumors, influenced by somatic cell copy number alterations and DNA methylation. SIRT5 expression correlated with clinical features and distinct metabolic, metastasis-related, and immune pathways. High SIRT5 levels predicted poor prognosis and impacted drug sensitivity. Additionally, SIRT5 expression correlated significantly with immune modulation, lymphocyte subpopulation infiltration, and immunotherapeutic response biomarkers. Varied SIRT5 expression was observed in immunotherapy cohorts. A range of chemicals affecting SIRT5 expression was identified. Notably, our findings underscore SIRT5 as a pivotal pathogenic factor promoting melanoma progression.
Conclusion: Our study presents a comprehensive analysis of SIRT5 and its regulatory genes, highlighting its robust diagnostic and prognostic potential across diverse cancers. SIRT5 may remodel the tumor microenvironment and holds promise for guiding immunotherapy responses. This underscores the potential of SIRT5-based cancer therapies.
Innovative dry electrode-based Health Patch: validating heart rate, respiration rate and user experience for vital signs monitoring
Authors: Wei Jonathan CJ , Broek Tim van den , Baardewijk Jan Ubbo van , Stokkum Robin , Kamstra Regina JM , Rikken Lars , Gijsbertse Kaj , Uzunbajakava Natallia Eduarda , Brink Willem van den
Published: December 2023

Successful implementation of remote monitoring of vital signs outside of the hospital setting hinges on addressing three crucial unmet needs: longer-term wear, skin comfort and signal quality. Earlier, we developed a Health Patch research platform that uses self-adhesive dry electrodes to measure vital digital biomarkers. Here, we report on the analytical validation for heart rate, heart rate variability and respiration rate. Study design included n = 25 adult participants with data acquisition during a 30-minute exercise protocol involving rest, squats, slow, and fast cycling. The Shimmer3 ECG Unit and Cosmed K5, were reference devices. Data analysis showed good agreement in heart rate and marginal agreement in respiratory rate, with lower agreement towards higher respiratory rates. The Lin's concordance coefficient was 0.98 for heart rate and 0.51 for respiratory rate. Heart rate variability (RMSSD) had a coefficient of 0.85. Participants generally expressed a positive experience with the technology, with some minor irritation from the medical adhesive. The results highlighted potential of this technology for short-to-medium term clinical use for cardiorespiratory health, due to its reliability, accuracy, and compact design. Such technology could become instrumental for remote monitoring providing healthcare professionals with continuous data, remote assessment and enhancing patient outcomes in cardiorespiratory health management.
Voluntary Unemployment Insurance
Authors: Larsen Birthe , Waisman Gisela
Published: December 2023

In countries with voluntary unemployment insurance, some workers are not insured against the risk of unemployment. This paper set-up a novel theoretical model in order to examine the impact on welfare and inequality when unemployment insurance is not obligatory but instead an individual decision. Workers are heterogeneous in terms of initial wealth, which affects the social assistance they can get. The higher the worker’s wealth level, the lower social assistance in case of unemployment, which therefore increases the incentive to obtain unemployment insurance. We consider an economy inhabited by risk averse workers and then expand the model to include educational choice. We analyse the mechanisms by which a higher social assistance and unemployment insurance for educated and uneducated workers impact unemployment, wages, education, inequality and welfare. We examine the choice of social security system considering different policy goals. An important one being to reduce inequality.
JEL codes: J6, I24
Primary data on symptom burden and quality of life among elderly patients at risk of dying during unplanned admissions to an NHS hospital: a cohort study using EuroQoL and the Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale
Authors: Johnston Bridget M. , Miller Mary , Normand Charles , Cardona Magnolia , May Peter , Lowney Aoife C
Published: December 2023

Background
Older people account heavily for palliative care needs at the population level and are growing in number as the population ages. There is relatively little high-quality data on symptom burden and quality of life, since these data are not routinely collected, and this group are under-recruited in primary research. It is unclear which measurement tools are best suited to capture burdens and experience.
Methods
We recruited a cohort of 221 patients aged 75 + years with poor prognosis who had an unplanned admission via the emergency department in a large urban hospital in England in 2019 and early 2020. Risk of dying was assessed using the CriSTAL tool. We collected primary data and combined these with routine health records. Baseline clinical data and patient reported quality of life outcomes were collected on admission and reassessed within the first 72 hours of presentation using EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS and the Integrated Palliative Outcomes Scale (IPOS).
Results
Completion rate was 68% (n = 151) and 33.1% were known to have died during admission or within 6 months post-discharge. The vast majority (84.8%) reported severe difficulties with at least one dimension of EQ-5D-5L at baseline and improvements in EQ-VAS observed at reassessment in 51.7%. The baseline IPOS revealed 78.2% of patients rating seven or more items as moderate, severe or overwhelming, but a significant reduction (-3.6, p < 0.001) in overall physical symptom severity and prevalence was also apparent. No significant differences were noted in emotional symptoms or changes in communication/practical issues. IPOS total score at follow up was positively associated with age, having comorbidities (Charlson index score > = 1) and negatively associated with baseline IPOS and CriSTAL scores.
Conclusion
Older people with poor prognosis admitted to hospital have very high symptom burden compared to population norms, though some improvement following assessment was observed on all measures. These data provide valuable descriptive information on quality of life among a priority population in practice and policy and can be used in future research to identify suitable interventions and model their effects.
Older adults at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease show stronger associations between sleep apnea severity and verbal memory
Authors: Lui Kitty , Dave Abhishek , Sprecher Kate , Chappel-Farley Miranda , Riedner Brady , Heston Margo , Taylor Chase , Carlsson Cynthia , Okonkwo Ozioma , Asthana Sanjay , Johnson Sterling , Bendlin Barbara , Mander Bryce , Benca Ruth
Published: December 2023

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) increases risk for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). While the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, hypoxemia during OSA has been implicated in cognitive impairment. OSA during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is usually more severe than in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, but the relative effect of oxyhemoglobin desaturation during REM versus NREM sleep on memory is not completely characterized. Here, we examined the impact of OSA, as well as the moderating effects of AD risk factors, on verbal memory in a sample of middle-aged and older adults with heightened AD risk.
Methods: Eighty-one adults (mean age:61.7±6.0 years, 62% females, 32% apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (APOE4) carriers, and 70% with parental history of AD) underwent clinical polysomnography including assessment of OSA. OSA features were derived in total, NREM, and REM sleep. REM-NREM ratios of OSA features were also calculated. Verbal memory was assessed with the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). Multiple regression models evaluated the relationships between OSA features and RAVLT scores while adjusting for sex, age, time between assessments, education years, body mass index (BMI), and APOE4 status or parental history of AD. The significant main effects of OSA features on RAVLT performance and the moderating effects of AD risk factors (i.e., sex, age, APOE4 status, and parental history of AD) were examined.
Results: Apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), respiratory disturbance index (RDI), and oxyhemoglobin desaturation index (ODI) during REM sleep were negatively associated with RAVLT total learning and long-delay recall. Further, greater REM-NREM ratios of AHI, RDI, and ODI (i.e., more events in REM than NREM) were related to worse total learning and recall. We found specifically that the negative association between REM ODI and total learning was driven by adults 60+ years old. In addition, the negative relationships between REM-NREM ODI ratio and total learning and REM-NREM RDI ratio and long-delay recall were driven by APOE4 carriers.
Conclusion: Greater OSA severity, particularly during REM sleep, negatively affects verbal memory, especially for people with greater AD risk. These findings underscore the potential importance of proactive screening and treatment of REM OSA even if overall AHI appears low.
Prognostic and functional significance of SLC7A11 and its relationship with the proliferation and apoptosis of acute myeloid leukaemia cells
Authors: Li Jiazheng , Zheng Yongzhi , Lu Lihua , Liu Wanying , Yang Ting , Hu Jianda , Chen Yanxin
Published: December 2023

Purpose: Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a common type of leukaemia in adults. Solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) may be a therapeutic target for multiple cancer types. However, the effects and action mechanism of SLC7A11 in AML remain unknown. Here, we investigated the prognostic and functional significance of SLC7A11 in AML.
Methods: We performed Gene Ontology/Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), protein–protein interaction network, immune cell infiltration, transcription factor-miRNA–mRNA regulatory network, mutation, and methylation analyses.
Results: SLC7A11 was significantly upregulated in most tumours, including AML, and correlated with a poor overall survival. A comparison of the high and low SLC7A11 expression groups revealed 1184 differentially expressed genes and 699 genes co-expressed with SLC7A11. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed their involvement in the Rap1 signalling pathway. The immune infiltration analysis indicated that SLC7A11 expression correlated with the infiltration levels of eosinophils and naïve B, plasma B, CD8+ T, CD4+ memory activated, resting and activated natural killer, and resting myeloid dendritic cells. The regulatory network indicated that GATA1 and has-miR-143-3pmay be upstream regulators of SLC7A11. The methylation levels of seven CpG sites were found to be associated with prognosis using the MethSurv database. In vitro experiments showed that erastin, an SLC7A11 inhibitor, inhibited cell proliferation, prolonged the G1 phase, and shortened the S phase, whilst daunorubicin had a synergistic effect on the inhibition of AML cell (U937 and THP1) proliferation.
Conclusion: These findings indicate that SLC7A11 is a potential therapeutic target for AML, which may be regulated by the GATA1- has-miR-143-3p -SLC7A11network and the RAP1 signaling pathway.
Curcumin’s molecular mechanism of action and targets in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: A network analysis and molecular docking study
Authors: Kalungi Frank , Kumar Pradeep , Valdez Ivan Ricardo Vega , Anywar Godwin
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that majorly affects the joints leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness and inflammation. Curcumin is a chemical compound from Curcuma longa(Tumeric). The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the treatment of RA using curcumin.
Methods: Curcumin associated targets were retrieved from SwissTargetPrediction, PharmMapper and DrugBank. The RA associated targets were retrieved from OMIM, GeneCards, NCBI gene databases. GeneVenn was used to determine overlapping genes (RA-curcumin associated targets). The targets were used to construct a compound-disease target network. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis was done to identify the molecular function, cellular components and biological processes associated with the targets. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses was performed to identify top pathways with p< 0.05. A disease target-pathway network (D-P) was constructed and then merged with the C-D network to produce a compound-disease target-pathway network (C-D-P).
Results: We obtained 190 RA-curcumin associated targets.Gene ontology analysis revealed response to peptide, protein kinase complex and non-membrane spanning protein kinase activity as the major biological processes, cellular componentsand molecular functionterms respectively. Network analysis revealed SRC, AKT1 and AKT2 as the hub targets. Molecular docking showed that curcumin can bind stably to the hub targets.
Conclusion: Curcumin can interact with various proteins involved in the treatment of RA which can guide further its clinical application.
Laser microbeam neuron ablation: a new approach in investigation chemotaxis response of nematode
Authors: Salama Saly N. , Atta Diaa , Tawfik Walid , Mohamed Mohamed N. , Radwan Nahla A.
Published: December 2023

Chemotaxis is the biologically intrinsic navigation towards or away from chemical stimuli; it is a crucial behavioral response for animals when interacting with their environment. It facilitates the location of sustenance, hosts, and other vital environmental signals. While prior research has predominantly concentrated on the chemotactic behaviors of free-living and entomopathogenic nematodes in response to volatile soil constituents, the current investigation extends this understanding to parasitic nematodes. Specifically, we examine Syphacia obvelata, a member of the Oxyuridae (Nematoda) known for parasitizing the vertebrate cecum. Employing laser surgery, we selectively ablated the olfactory receptors (amphids) to ascertain the reliance of S.obvelata's chemotactic behavior solely on stimuli from these sensory structures. This research, conducted in Egypt, pioneers the adaptation of laser surgery for the targeted incapacitation of sensory receptors in parasitic nematodes. The successful ablation and subsequent behavioral alteration highlight laser microsurgery's ability to ablation minuscule receptors on a motile parasitic worm, promising a valuable tool for comprehending such intricate parasitic species behavior and offering new vistas for parasitological research and potential control strategies.
Incidence of referred progressive collapsing foot deformity in the Swedish general population
Authors: Osbeck Ida , Cöster Maria , Atroshi Isam
Published: December 2023

Background: Progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) is a disabling condition that may require complex surgical treatment. Little is known about the incidence of PCFD in the general population and specifically of PCFD requiring specialist care.
Methods: We conducted a nation-wide epidemiological study to estimate the incidence of referred PCFD in the general population. We retrieved data from the Swedish National Patient Register. All individuals aged 16 years or older, with a first-time diagnosis of PCFD (ICD-10 code M214) between 2007 and 2018 were identified. Total incidences, change over time, gender- and age specific incidences per 100,000 person-years were calculated using population size data from Statistics Sweden. Incidences were compared using Poisson test.
Results: The incidence rate (IR) of referred PCFD in the general population was 23.0 (95% CI 22.7-23.3) per 100,000 person-years. The IR in women was 30.4 (95% CI 29.9-30.8) and in men 15.4 (95% CI 15.1-15.8). The highest IRs were found in the age group 61-75 years old. Among the 21 regions in Sweden, large variations in the IRs were found, with age- and sex-standardized IRs ranging from 8.3 (95% CI 7.2-9.4) to 69.1 (95% CI 62.4-75.8).
Conclusion: PCFD requiring specialist care is common in the general population. The incidence in women is almost double that in men. Large unexplained regional variations in the incidence rates exist.
Creating silver nanoparticles through the biogenic synthesis process using marine fungi Aspergillus flavus OQ651270: Examining their characterization and conducting biological studies.
Authors: Al-Agamy Mohamed H. , Kelany Mahmoud S. , Alhuzani Mohammad R. , Hamed Moaz M
Published: December 2023

Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) have gained widespread attention due to their diverse applications in modern technology, prompting extensive research and development efforts. This study focuses on investigating the antibacterial properties of Ag-NPs, encompassing their production, characterization, and biological aspects. The eco-friendly extracellular biosynthetic method employed in this work utilized extracts from the marine fungus Aspergillus flavus MK4 as reducing agents for nanoparticle synthesis. UV-visible spectroscopy revealed the colloidal Ag-NPs, with a Plasmon absorbance peak observed at 450 nm. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) elucidated the spherical shape and 15 nm size of the Ag-NPs. Evaluation against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria demonstrated significant antibacterial activity. Cytotoxicity against the HepG-2 cell line was assessed using the MTT assay, and antioxidant properties were examined through the radical scavenging (DPPH) assay. The synthesized Ag-NPs exhibit promising characteristics for applications in antibacterial, anticancer, and wound-healing contexts. Aspergillus flavus MK4, with its robust Ag-NP synthesis capability, produces well-characterized nanoparticles with proven antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and wound-healing properties.
The P limitation of Pinus massoniana reforestation increases with stand maturity: Evidence from plants, leaf litter, and soil
Authors: Tie Liehua , Peñuelas Josep , Huang Congde , Sardans Jordi , Bose Arun K. , Ouyang Shengnan , Kong Yixian , Guo Yan , Wu Yujie , Cheng Wei , Ding Guijie
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims
: Soil phosphorus (P) regulates plant productivity. However, the medium to long-term time-scale effects of reforestation on the P recycle of plants, litter, and soil continuum, thus regulating soil P storage, especially deep-soil P fractions dynamics, are unclear.
Methods
We determined soil (0 ~ 100 cm) P fractions, root and leaf N/P ratio, leaf-litter P concentration, and biogeochemical drivers in 32-, 45-, and 60-year-old Pinus massoniana reforestations in southwest China.
Results
The storages of soil labile, moderately labile, and occluded P in the 45- and 60-year stands were lower than the 32-year stand. The concentrations of NaHCO3-Pi, NaHCO3-Po, and total labile P in top-soil were lower while those in sub- and bottom-soil were not significantly in the 45- and 60-year stands compared to the 32-year stand. The concentrations of all soil layer NaOH-Po and total moderately labile P were lower in the 45- and 60-year stands than the 32-year stand. The concentrations of all soil layers C.HCl-Pi and total occluded P were lower in the 60-year stand than the 32-year stand. The leaf N/P ratio and top-soil C/P ratio and acid phosphatase were higher and the leaf-litter P concentration was lower in the older stands.
Conclusions
P. massoniana secreted more acid phosphatase and increased leaf P resorption to compensate for the drop in soil P-availability with stand age, which in turn decreased leaf-litter P input and thus resulted in a depletion of soil P. Overall, our results highlighted that P limitation increased with stand maturity in P. massoniana reforestations.