bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant and Antiatherogenic Responses of Black Solo Garlic in Alloxan-Induced White Rats
Authors: Saryono Saryono , Proverawati Atikah , Jehloh Latifah
Published: December 2023

The association between the consumption of black solo garlic (SG) and the increase in antioxidant enzymes and the ability to prevent atherogenicity has not been studied much. This study aims to examine the antioxidant and antiatherogenic capacities of black solo garlic in aloksan induced rats. This study used a true experimental design with a pre- and post-test approach with a control group design. The sample of 30 Wistar rats was randomly divided into 6 groups: a healthy control, a negative control, treatment at doses of 6.5, 13.5, and 26 g/KgBW, and positive controls receiving vitamin C at a dose of 1 g/kgBW. The outcomes demonstrated that following the induction, MDA, CRP, LDL, and IL-6 levels increased, while SOD and GSH-Px enzyme levels decreased. After treatment with black solo garlic for 14 days, there was an increase in the enzymes SOD and GSH-Px, as well as a significant decrease in levels of MDA, IL-6, CRP, and LDL in experimental animals. The SG dose of 13.5 g/kg BW is the most effective dose in this study. The active compounds in SG function as antioxidants in preventing atherogenic events.
Glycine-modulated Zirconium Perylene-based Metal-Organic Framework for Rhodamin B Photocatalytic Degradation
Authors: Zulys Agustino , Defania Mella , Gunlazuardi Jarnuzi , Adawiah Adawiah
Published: December 2023

Photocatalysis employing Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) material may degrade Rhodamin B pollutant. MOF photocatalytic activity can be adjusted by altering the ligands, metal ions, and modulators. This research aims to synthesize glycine-modulated zirconium perylene-based metal organic framework (Zr-PTCA-Gly) for Rhodamin B photocatalytic degradation under visible light irradiation. The activated Zr-PTCA-Gly exhibits good catalytic activity to degrade Rhodamine B with a 95% degradation efficiency.
Effect of Plasticizer Addition on The Characteristics of Chitosan-Alginate Edible Film
Authors: Wibowo Atmanto Heru , Fehragucci Helmi , Purnawan Candra
Published: December 2023

The edible film of chitosan-alginate in this study showed characteristics of the physical and mechanical properties when various plasticizers of polyethylene glycol/PEG, polyvinyl alcohol/PVA, and glycerol were added into the origin film. It was also found that chitosan content in the edible film contributed to the change in the physical properties and the conductivity of the film. The general effect on the film because of the addition of plasticizers was the decrease of the tensile strength, the increase of the films' elongation, and the increase of the water vapor permeability (WVP). Among other plasticizers, PEG attracted the most attention in which it affected the most significant change on the properties. Meanwhile, the higher chitosan content in the chitosan-alginate film affected the increase of the tensile strength and the decrease of the elongation value, and the decrease of the WVP on the film. Characterization using FT-IR spectrophotometer showed that no chemical interaction was formed due to the mixing of alginate-chitosan in the film. Instead, only the physical blending of chitosan-alginate was formed in the edible film.
Improvement of Selectivity and Antifouling Properties of Chitosan-modified Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) Membrane for Protein Filtration
Authors: Zatadini Reza , Ni’mah Aldita Fatchul , Setiawan Yudi , Pradita Agung Lucky , Pratiwi Desy Vita , Syakirina Dina , Insani Mayzy Vanesia , Naufal Widyan Muhammad , Rayhani Wulida , Saputra Ozi Adi , Pramono Edi
Published: December 2023

Protein with high purity is currently a valuable commercial commodity, prized for its high value and application in specialized functions. PVDF-based membrane technology has found widespread use in protein purification processes. However, the issue of fouling on the membrane surface frequently hampers the performance of PVDF membranes. The present study aims to enhance PVDF membranes' selectivity and antifouling properties through chitosan modification, thereby optimizing protein filtration. PVDF and PVDF/Chitosan membranes were fabricated using the phase inversion technique, followed by a comprehensive characterization of their surface properties, thermal attributes, and performance in bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein filtration. The collected data revealed notable increases in membrane hydrophilicity, porosity, and pure water flux due to the incorporation of chitosan. The membrane protein rejection capabilities were significantly enhanced to levels exceeding 90% with the introduction of 0.5% chitosan. Moreover, as the chitosan concentration increased, the membrane exhibited superior antifouling characteristics, with the 0.5% chitosan concentration yielding the highest Flux Recovery Ratio (FRR) value of 85.35%. Considering the significant improvement selectivity and antifouling properties in the combined system, the chitosan-modified PVDF membrane holds substantial promise in protein purification applications.

 
Bacteria Found in Brasswind Instruments: Analyses Using Culture-Dependent Method and Culture-Independent 16 S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing Method
Authors: Rusu H Zeynep , Mutlu M Burcin , Kilic Volkan , Poyraz Nilgun , Eryilmaz Halil
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: In wind instrument performance, there is a constant contact between the player and the instrument, during which microorganisms in the mouth flora of the player are transferred into the instrument. The inner surface of the brass instruments provides the perfect environment
for microorganisms to grow. As a result, players repeatedly interact with these micro-organisms during playing. In previous studies, different kinds of microorganisms were detected in brass instruments, some of which can carry serious health hazards. PURPOSE: Revealing the common bacterial
populations of brasswind instruments will be helpful in raising awareness among musicians and establishing their habits of cleaning/disinfecting their instruments. METHODS: In this study, samples from 4 different areas of 14 brass instruments were collected and analyzed using culture-dependent
and -independent (16 S rRNA amplicon sequencing) approaches. The bacterial loads in different parts of the instruments were compared. RESULTS: The amount and variety of bacteria detected in the sampled instruments were unexpectedly large. While some of the found bacteria are harmless, others,
such as Chryseobacterium and Elizabethkingia, may occasionally cause serious infections, especially in people with suppressed immune systems. Likewise, the Mycobacterium group includes a type that causes tuberculosis, and the Streptococcus group also shows pathogenic characteristics. The mouthpiece
and leadpipe of the instruments had a much larger microbial load compared to the tuning and valve slides. CONCLUSION: According to the findings, brass instruments may harbor a wide variety of bacteria, some of which are potentially hazardous for the musicians’ health, especially if their
immune systems are compromised. These risks can be minimized by regularly cleaning and disinfecting the instrument, especially the mouthpiece and leadpipe, which are the areas harboring most of the microorganisms.
The Single Leg Heel Rise Test—A Helpful Tool for Dance Science?: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schrefl Anna , Erlacher Daniel , Schärli Andrea
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Foot and ankle injuries are the most prevalent injuries in dance. The single leg heel-rise (SLHR) test is a simple tool to assess muscular endurance of the plantar flexors of the foot and is an increasingly popular manual muscle test in various areas of dance. Although the
SLHR test has shown high reliability and validity in the medical field, no uniform description of this test exists in dance. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to identify parameters, outcome measures, purposes, and existing normative values of the SLHR test in the dance field. METHODS:
Following the PRISMA guidelines, the electronic databases Scopus, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane were searched using a predefined search strategy up to June 2022. Studies were included if they reported screening, testing, or evaluation of either muscular endurance or strength
of the calf muscle-tendon unit (MUT) in dancers using the SLHR test. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using a modified version of the Downs and Black Quality Index. RESULTS: A total of 180 studies were identified. Twelve studies comprising a total of 427 dancers met
the inclusion criteria. Key testing parameters of the SLHR test varied widely or were not reported. The average quality rating of the reviewed studies was 12.9 (range 8 to 17) out of a possible 20 points. DISCUSSION: Although commonly used in test batteries, there are no standardized parameters
of the SLHR test used in the dance field. Therefore, no generally applicable normative values could be established. CONCLUSION: Key parameters such as the precise execution of the heel rises should be reported in testing protocols. For the SLHR test to be a useful tool in dance, further research
on the influence of dance style, age, and injuries to the calf MTU on this test is needed.
Effects of microplastics on the porosity and connectivity with different soil textures: Based on CT scanning
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Li Jiachen , Li Weiping , Yang Wenhuan , Zhao Ge , Lyu Jing
Published: December 2023

Microplastics-contaminated soils exhibit disordered pore architecture. However, research on soil pores' morphological features and connectivity under microplastics endowment needs to be more extensive. This research used computed tomography and three-dimensional visualization tools to quantitatively analyze the micropore structure of sandy soils, sandy loam, and loamy soils after microplastics endowment, and we also built a pore network model. The findings revealed that microplastics deposition considerably altered the spatial structure of the pores and reduced soil porosity. The effects of microplastics accumulation on soil pore morphology and connectivity varied greatly between soil textures, with connected pores in sandy soils and sandy loams partially or completely disappearing and connected pores in loamy soils changing from a complex spatial structure to a monolayer sheet. Furthermore, as the abundance of microplastics increases, the soil pore network model becomes more straightforward, and the Euler number and tortuosity increase, which leads to the hydraulic conductivity declines. Finally, the microplastics endowment caused significant damage to the soil's connectivity and reduced its infiltration ability.
Munziq ameliorates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting inflammation via regulating NF-κB pathway
Authors: Mutailifu Duolikun , Aini Abudusaimi , Aibibula Aili , Liu Zheng , Maimaitiaili Abudunaibi
Published: December 2023

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective effects of Munziq on abnormal body fluid myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI) and its underlying mechanism.
Methods: Normal rats and abnormal body fluid rats were pre-treated with Munziq, and MIRI models were established. Histopathological changes and myocardial ultrastructure changes were observed by HE staining and transmission electron microscopy. Serum CK-MB, cTn-T, ICAM-1 levels were detected by ELISA. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in serum and myocardial tissue were detected to observe the anti-inflammatory effect. The expression levels of NF-κB signaling pathway proteins NIK, IKKα, Pikα, and p65 were detected by western blot analysis.
Results:
Our results showed that myocardial injury in the ABF MIRI group was more severe compared to control MIRI group. Munziq pretreatment has the potential to mitigate the pathological changes induced by ischemia reperfusion injury and could protective Cardiac Function. protein levels of NF-κB pathway and down-stream effectors IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, were significantly up-regulated in MIRI group while down-regulated in Munziq group. Interestingly, there was more activation of the NFKB signaling pathway in the ABF MIRI group and higher levels of downstream inflammatory cytokines.
Conclusions: Our results suggest that MIRI was more serious in ABF. Munziq has cardioprotective effects in ischemia and reperfusion injury in both. This protective effect may be acted through suppressing the NF-κB signaling pathway.
Molecular detection of vector-borne pathogens in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in China
Authors: Shiyi Wang , Cui Nannan , Lv Ziman , Wang Nan , Liu Gang , Zhao Shanshan , Liu Changqing , Wang Yuanzhi
Published: December 2023

The red fox (Vulpes vulpes), widely distributed in Northern hemisphere, is a natural reservoir for multiple pathogens. However, vector-borne pathogens of red foxes are relatively rare article in China. To date, no reports of Bartonellaand Hepatozoon in red foxes in China. Bartonella rochalimae and Hepatozoon canis are vector-borne pathogens that can cause severe diseases in domestic animals and wildlife. During 2018-2022, 16 red foxes were sampled in two counties and a city of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR), in northwest China. The organs of these 16 foxes were dissected, followed by DNA extraction, amplified by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In the present study, based on BLASTn and phylogenetic tree analysis, B. rochalimae and H. canis were molecularly found in an individual sample, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first report on the existence of B. rochalimaeand H. canis in red fox in China.
A revision of the family Cucurbitariaceae with additional new taxa from forest trees in Iran
Authors: Eisvand Payam , Mehrabi-Koushki Mehdi , Crous Pedro
Published: December 2023

The family Cucurbitariaceae is rich in species diversity, and has a wide host range and geographic distribution. In this study, we identified 12 Cucurbitariaceae isolates which were obtained from disease symptoms in two forest trees in Khuzestan province, Iran. In addition, this family is reassessed using phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequences from five nuclear regions (ITS, LSU, tub2, tef1a and rpb2). The phylogenetic analyses showed that the present isolates represent one new genus, Nothocucurbitaria, and two new species, Nothocucurbitaria izehica and Parafenestella quercicola which are described and illustrated. Furthermore, the genus Allocucurbitaria is emended to accommodate species of Seltsamia, that grouped with the type species of Allocucurbitaria. Parafenestella pittospori and A. prunicola are recombined into the genera Neocucurbitaria and Nothocucurbitaria, respectively. Comparative analysis of single-locus trees revealed that the tub2 and tef1a can distinguish most genera and species in Cucurbitariaceae, while the ITS and LSU phylogenies show low resolution at both generic and species level. The best single locus marker, rpb2, was able to distinguish all generic and most species lineages in Cucurbitariaceae.
Therapeutic effect of tranexamic acid on traumatic brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Jianxiang , Zhong Hai , Chen Wei , Zheng Jianchun
Published: December 2023

Objective
Tranexamic acid exhibits certain therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of traumatic brain injury. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the safety and efficacy of TXA in patients with TBI.
Methods
The databases, namely PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases, were systematically searched to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of tranexamic acid for traumatic brain injury from January 2000 to November 2023.
Results
The present meta-analysis encompasses six RCTs. Compared with placebo group in patients with traumatic brain injury, tranexamic acid results in remarkably reduced mortality (P < 0.001), hemorrhage growth (P = 0.03), the volume of hemorrhage growth (P = 0.003), but has no important impact on neurosurgery (P = 0.86), seizures (P = 0.19) and pulmonary embolism (P = 0.63).
Conclusion
The administration of tranexamic acid is significantly associated with reduced mortality and hemorrhage growth in patients suffering from traumatic brain injury, while the incidence of neurosurgery requirement, seizures, and pulmonary embolism remains comparable to that observed with placebo.
The role of fines in espresso extraction dynamics
Authors: Smrke Samo , Eiermann André , Yeretzian Chahan
Published: December 2023

The impact of particle size distribution of coffee grounds on espresso extraction was explored. Finely ground coffee for espresso has a characteristically bimodal particle size distribution. For a given median grind size, different grinding technologies can yield a different share of fines (particles < 100 µm). We performed espresso extractions for a range of median particle sizes and by systematically varying the share of fines in the ground coffee by adding sieved fines to the coffee grounds. Dynamic beverage weights, extraction percentage, extraction time and dynamic headspace PTR-MS (proton-transfer mass spectrometer) analysis and sensory evaluation of the resulting brews were measured. We show that the share of fines plays an important role in the espresso extraction flow rate. An increase of share of fines decreases coffee bed permeability and leads to reduced flow rates and longer extraction times. Statistical model using partial least squares regression of the particle size distributions of coffee grounds confirms that previously an arbitrary choice of fines at below 100 µm is an appropriate one for characterizing coffee grounds. The PTR-MS analysis shows a non-linear increase of aroma compounds content in the final cup with increasing extraction yield. Our hypothesis is that both extraction efficiency and post-extraction evaporative losses of aroma compounds influence the final aroma compound concentrations in the cup.
Moderate ethanol exposure reduces astrocyte-induced neuroinflammatorysignaling and cognitive decline in presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice
Authors: Kang Shinwoo , Lee Jeyeon , Choi Sun , Nesbitt Jarred , Min Paul H , Trushina Eugenia , Choi Doo-Sup
Published: December 2023

Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) has been associated with the development of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, recent studies demonstrate that moderate alcohol consumption may be protective against dementia and cognitive decline.
Methods We examined astrocyte function, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), and the NF-κB p65 and IKK-α/β signaling pathways in modulating neuroinflammation and amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition. We assessed apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in the mouse brain using IHC and ELISA in response to moderate ethanol exposure (MEE). First, to confirm the intracerebral distribution of ApoE, we co-stained with GFAP, a marker for astrocytes that biosynthesize ApoE. We sought to investigate whether the ethanol-induced upregulation of LRP1 could potentially inhibit the activity of IL-1β and TNF-α induced IKK-α/β towards NF-κB p65, resulting in a reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines. To evaluate the actual Aβ load in the brains of APP/PS1 mice, we performed with a specific antibody Aβ (Thioflavin S) on both air- and ethanol-exposed groups, subsequently analyzing Aβ levels. We also measured glucose uptake activity using 18F-FDG in APP/PS1 mice. Finally, we investigated whether MEE induced cognitive and memory changes using the Y maze, noble objective recognition (NOR) test, and Morris water maze (MWM).
Results Our findings demonstrate that MEE reduced astrocytic glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ApoE levels in the cortex and hippocampus in presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice. Interestingly, increased LRP1 protein expression is accompanied by dampening the IKK-α/β-NF-κB p65 pathway, resulting in decreased IL-1β and TNF-α levels in male mice. Notably, female mice show reduced anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-4, and IL-10 levels without altering IL-1β and TNF-α concentrations. In both males and females, Aβ plaques, a hallmark of AD, were reduced in the cortex and hippocampus of ethanol-exposed presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice. Consistently, MEE increased fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET)-based brain activities and normalized cognitive and memory deficits in the APP/PS1 mice.
Conclusions Our findings suggest that MEE may benefit AD pathology via modulating LRP1 expression, potentially reducing neuroinflammation and attenuating Aβ deposition. Our study implies that reduced astrocyte derived ApoE and LDL cholesterol levels are critical for attenuating AD pathology.
Development and validation of a machine learning model to predict the risk of liver fibrosis
Authors: zhou weihan , Liu Dekun , Wei Ke , Yu Nanhui
Published: December 2023

Background: Liver fibrosis has become a major chronic disease affecting global health and safety. It is a sustained wound healing response that can cause excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Developing and validating a machine learning model to predict the risk of liver fibrosis is crucial for developing personalized prevention and treatment plans.
Objective: Our aim is to establish an interpretable model to predict the risk of liver fibrosis, and use the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method to explain the RandomForest model and explore prognostic factors of liver fibrosis.
Method:In this retrospective cohort study, Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). transient elastography (TE)-accessed liver stiffness was taken as independent and dependent variables, respectively. Liver steatosis and fibrosis were detected by controlling attenuation parameter (CAP) and TE. Th e median
liver stiffness of 8.2 kPa was used to identify significant fibrosis ( F2) among patients. We calculated the adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidential intervals (CIs) for associations with significant NAFLD fibrosis using multivariable logistic regression models.we conducted model development and performance comparison on NHANES. We extracted data for each case of liver fibrosis and randomly divided the dataset into training set (70%) and validation set (30%). The predictive performance was compared between the Random Forest model and eight other machine learning models based on the area under the curve. We used the SHAP method to explain the Random Forest model model.
Results: Overall, 5948 individuals with were included in the analysis and768 subjects met thedefinition of liver fibrosi .Among the nine models, the Random Forest model had the best predictive performance, with a training set area under the curve (AUC) of 0.993 (95% CI 0.880-0.985) and a validation set AUC of 0.609 (95% CI 0.443-0.775). The SVM model had the worst generalization ability (AUC=0.272, 95% CI 0.140-0.404). The decision curve showed that at threshold probabilities ranging from 10% to 28%, the net benefit of the Random Forest model exceeded that of other machine learning models. The SHAP method revealed the top seven predictive factors for liver fibrosis based on their importance ranking, with smoking status being considered as the most important predictor variable based on its mean value.
Conclusions:
Interpretable predictive models can help doctors predict the risk of liver fibrosis more accurately, thereby providing better early warning and treatment options for their patients. In addition, interpretable frameworks can increase the transparency of the model and promote understanding of the reliability of the predictive model for doctors.
Influence of melatonin supplementation on tissue response of endodontic sealers in Wistar rats
Authors: de Oliveira Pedro Henrique Chaves , Rodrigues Michael Júnio da Silva , Silva Cristiane Cantiga da , Cardoso Carolina de Barros Morais , Faria Flávio Duarte , Silva Leopoldo Cosme da , Ervolino Edilson , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Evaluate the influence of melatonin supplementation on tissue’s response to endodontic sealers in Wistar rats.
Material and methods: Forty-eight Wistar rats had four polyethylene tubes implanted in their subcutaneous tissue, one empty (control) and three filled with endodontic sealers (AH Plus, Endofill and Sealapex). Half of the animals were supplemented with melatonin (TM) and the remaining with water (TW) for 15 days before the implantation until euthanasia. After 5, 15 and 30 days (n=8/group/period) tubes were removed and analyzed in H&E, immunohistochemistry, PSR, VK and POL. The results were statistically analyzed (p<0.05).
Results: In TW, Endofill evoked a more intense inflammatory infiltrate compared to AH Plus and control in 30-day (p<0.05). In TM tubes, there was any difference in both periods (p>0.05), differences for Endofill (p=0.05) and Sealapex (p<0.05) was observed in TM animals in 30-day, presenting lower inflammatory infiltrate. For IL-6 and TNF-α it was observed that the immunolabeling was lower in TM animals in all periods, despite of the sealer. In addition, there was a higher percentage of mature fibers in TM groups at 5 days (p<0.05). Structures positive for von Kossa staining and birefringent to polarized light were observed only for Sealapex in all periods, regardless of melatonin supplementation.
Conclusion: Melatonin influences inflammatory response of endodontic sealers, by modulating the inflammatory process and pre-inflammatory mediators, and stimulating tissue repair, without interfering on calcium deposition.
Clinical Relevance: Evidence that melatonin can regulate inflammatory responses after the contact of tissues with biomaterials.
Socio-demographic predictors of not having private dental insurance coverage: Machine-learning algorithms may help identify the disadvantaged
Authors: Duvvuri Venkata , Abdelrehim Mona , Singhal Sonica
Published: December 2023

Background
Unlike universal health care coverage, dental care in Canada is almost wholly privately financed, with approximately 62% having employment-based insurance, 32% having no insurance, and only 6% of Canadians have some form of dental care coverage through public purse. Consequently, the ability of people with no insurance or public coverage to access dental care is limited compared to those with private insurance. For governments to assess eligible target populations for future dental programs, it is important to understand the socio-demographic attributes of those who do not have insurance coverage or are currently on public programs.
Methods
Our study is a secondary data analysis of the latest available cycle of the Canadian Community Health Survey (2017-18), a cross-sectional survey that collects information on health status, health care utilization, and health determinants for the Canadian population. We started with bivariate analysis to determine the characteristics of Ontarians who lack dental insurance. Afterwards, we employed machine learning (ML) to analyze data and identify risk indicators for not having private dental insurance. Specifically, we trained seven supervised ML models and utilized Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) to determine the relative feature importance for not having private dental insurance from the best ML model [the gradient boosting (GBDT)].
Results
Approximately one-third of Canadians do not have private insurance coverage for dental care. Individuals with an income below $20,000, those unemployed or working part-time, seniors aged above 70, and those unable to afford to have their own housing are more at risk of not having dental insurance, leading to financial barriers in accessing dental care.
Conclusion
In the future, government-funded programs should incorporate these identified risk indicators when determining eligible populations for publicly funded dental programs. Understanding these attributes is critical for developing targeted and effective interventions, ensuring equitable access to dental care for Canadians.
Mandibular Fractal Analysis of Celiac Patients
Authors: KAYA SEMA , KOC ALAETTIN
Published: December 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
No gender differences in the 24 month decline of non-invasive liver fibrosis markers in HCV-mono and HCV/HIV coinfection after direct-acting antiviral therapy
Authors: Collazos Julio , Perez-Is Laura , Fuente Belen De la , Morano Luis , Rivas-Carmenado Maria , Rodriguez Manuel , Romero-Favela Adolfo , gonzalez Galilea de Jesus Fonseca- , Melon Santiago , Diaz-arias Javier , Valle-Garay Eulalia , Asensi Victor
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Untreated HCV mono and HCV/HIV coinfected women have lower degrees of liver fibrosis (LF) compared to men. Direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy attains viral eradication in > 90% of patients with progressive LF decline in parallel. Gender-related differences in LF regression in the long term assessed by non-invasive liver fibrosis markers (NILFM) in HCV mono and HCV/HIV coinfected after DAA treatment have not been explored so far
Patients and Methods
374 HCV-infected adult patients, of them 214 HCV-HIV coinfected, were followed-up for 24 months after starting DAA therapy. LF was assessed by NILFM: transient elastometry (TE) and several biochemical indexes (APRI, Forns, FIB-4).
Results
Men had significantly more advanced LF at baseline than women assessed by NILFM. No LF differences at baseline in age, HIV coinfection course (CD4, HIV viral load), and HCV features (HCV viral load, genotype) were detected. No significant gender differences in LF decline after comparing 24-month and baseline LF values were observed. LF changes after DAA therapy were similar in HCV mono and HCV/HIV coinfected patients and in both sexes. Gender did not influence the course of LF decline after DAA assessed by NILFM: TE (p = 0.8), APRI (P = 0.9)), Forns (P = 0.4) and FIB-4 (P = 0. 7) by multivariate analysis.
Conclusions
No gender differences in the 24 month LF decline after DAA with independence of having HCV mono or HCV/HIV coinfection were found.
Long-term Patterns of Stream Macroinvertebrates in an Alpine Cirque Landscape
Authors: Robinson Christopher T. , Jolidon Christa , Lods-Crozet Brigitte
Published: December 2023

Alpine landscapes are notable regarding their sensitivity to environmental change. Surface waters are especially sensitive as many are influenced by glacial meltwaters that are diminishing with the retreat of glaciers worldwide. The Macun Lakes region is an alpine cirque landscape housing a number of lakes interconnected by streams. Surface waters, 10 stream sites in the present study, have been monitored in mid-summer since the year 2001 for physico-chemistry, periphyton and macroinvertebrates (including 74 species of chironomids). Water physico-chemistry revealed that the two main basins in the catchment differed, reflecting the inputs of rock glacier waters in the south basin. However, trends suggest that waters are becoming more similar as rock glacier inputs diminish over time along with a general decrease in nitrogen levels in all waters. Periphyton biomass showed some spatial differences among sites and with a general decrease following 2010. Macroinvertebrate assemblages, including chironomids, clearly differed among basins and longitudinally along the stream network in each basin. Notably, no significant temporal trend was observed in the long-term data for macroinvertebrates, as well as chironomids, at the monitored sites. The results suggest that lotic macroinvertebrates may be buffered by the interconnectedness of streams with lakes in the landscape that mitigate major response patterns of running waters to environmental change.
Deletion of a GA-repeat in human GPM6B disrupts differentiation of NT2 cells to neural cells
Authors: Bayat Hadi , Mirahmadi Maryam , Azarshin Zohreh , Ohadi Hamid , Delbari Ahmad , Ohadi Mina
Published: December 2023

Across multiple primates and tissues, GPM6B (Glycoprotein membrane 6B) reaches maximum levels of expression in the human brain. This gene contains a strictly monomorphic short tandem repeat (STR) of (GA)9. We used a CRISPR-based tool to delete this GA-repeat in NT2 cells, and analyzed the consequence of this deletion on GPM6B expression, using qRT-PCR and western blot. Subsequently, the edited cells were induced to differentiate into neural cells, using retinoic acid (RA) treatment, and sorted by flowcytometry. Deletion of the GA-repeat significantly decreased the expression of GPM6B at the RNA level (p < 0.05) and 40% at the protein level. Compared to the control cells, the edited cells showed a dramatic decrease of the astrocyte and neural cell markers at the protein level, including GFAP (0.77-fold), TUBB3 (0.57-fold), and MAP2 (0.2-fold). Subsequent sorting of the edited cells, using the cell surface markers showed an increased number of NES (p < 0.01), but decreased number of GFAP (p < 0.001), TUBB3 (p < 0.05), and MAP2 (p < 0.01), compared to the control cells. In conclusion, we provide prime evidence of the biological role of a STR, exemplified in the regulation of GPM6B expression and optimal differentiation of human neural cell lineages.
qPCR as a decision-making tool for Plasmodiophora brassicae forecast in the field
Authors: Arias Francy Liliana García , Rodríguez Edwin , Dávila Lorena , Riascos Donald , Revelo Eliana , Gelvez Alejandro Villabona , Moreno-Velandia Carlos Andrés , Zuluaga Paola
Published: December 2023

Clubroot caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae is a very destructive soilborne disease of brassica plants worldwide. The pathogen survives in soil with resting spores, that are produced in large numbers inside infected roots and can persist in the soil for up to 17 years. These resting spores can build up in the soil when brassicas are repeatedly grown, increasing the inoculum potential, leading to increased disease incidence and severity in subsequent crops. Infection by this pathogen can result in considerable yield and quality losses in susceptible crops, accounting for a 20–90% yield loss of broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage crops in Colombia. A national survey to determine the extent of clubroot in Colombia was done in 2017, and it was found that 53.7% of the visited fields had clubroot disease on the crops, but the pathogen DNA was detected by PCR methods on 91.3% of the surveyed fields in all the departments where crucifers are grown. At the time of the survey, no symptoms of clubroot disease were observed in Nariño department, despite finding the pathogen DNA at concentrations varying from 2x103 to 2x104 resting spores per gram of soil. However, during the year 2020, Nariño farmers reported the presence of a disease, causing wilting and plant death of their cruciferous crops. Here we report that P. brassicae is the causal agent of the newly appeared disease in brassica crops in Nariño. The aims of this study were to determine the inoculum threshold needed to cause disease and the inoculum concentration that can be detected in both artificially and naturally infected soils to use them as tools for P. brassicae management and control. We propose the use of qPCR as a decision-making tool for cruciferous growers.
Deep Learning for Microsatellite Instability Prediction in Colorectal Cancer: Impact of Clinicopathologic Variables on Model Performance
Authors: Kim Meejeong , Chikontwe Philip , Go Heounjeong , Jeong Jae Hoon , Shin Su-Jin , Park Sang Hyun , Nam Soo Jeong
Published: December 2023

Microsatellite instability (MSI) is a clinically significant subtype in colorectal cancer. Despite the promising performance of deep learning techniques in digital pathology for clinical diagnosis, the impact of clinicopathologic factors on the performance of these models has been largely overlooked. Using a total of 931 colorectal cancer whole-slide images (WSIs), we developed and verified a deep learning algorithm and analyzed the WSI-level MSI probability and clinicopathologic variables. In both internal and external cohorts, our deep learning model achieved an area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) of 0.901 and 0.908, respectively. The presence of a mucinous or a signet ring cell carcinoma component enhanced the model’s ability to predict MSI (HR = 19.73, P = 0.026). Conversely, tumors subjected to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (HR = 0.03, P = 0.002) and those with metastasis (HR = 0.01, P = 0.016) demonstrated an increased probability of being associated with microsatellite stability (MSS). To ensure the clinical applicability of the model, it is imperative to meticulously validate deep learning-based approaches for MSI prediction, accounting for diverse practical clinicopathologic backgrounds that may impact the model’s performance.
Integrative effects of phytohormones in the phenolic acids production in Salvia verticillata L. under multi-walled carbon nanotubes and methyl jasmonate elicitation
Authors: Rahmani Nosrat , Radjabin Tayebeh
Published: December 2023

Salvia verticillata L. is a well-known herbal medicine rich in rosmarinic acid (RA) and with therapeutic values. Some physiological and biochemical responses of S. verticillata to methyl jasmonate (MJ) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were investigated in this work. It has been supposed that the stimulants could change the level of phenolic compounds, especially RA, and activate their signaling pathways in S. verticillata. The leaves were sprayed with aqueous solutions containing 100 mg L-1 MWCNTs and 100 μM MJ and then harvested from 0 to 96 hours after treatment. Obtained data revealed significant variations in the levels of some phytohormones, as well as the content of H2O2 and the amount of lipid peroxidation, during the initial hours of harvesting. The content of phenolic acids positively correlated with the transcription levels of key enzymes involved in their biosynthesis, especially rosmarinic acid synthase. The content of RA increased more than 2.7- and 11.5-fold following exposure to MJ and MWCNTs, respectively. The patterns of changes in phytohormone levels in the treated leaves with MWCNTs were different from those in leaves elicited with MJ. It is reasonable to conclude that putative linkages between changes in some phytohormone pools, notably jasmonic acid and salicylic acid, and applied elicitors lead to the accumulation of phenolic acids in the leaves of S. verticillata. Overall, the present findings help us to improve our understanding of the signal transduction pathways of the applied stimulants that led to the enhancement of phenolic acids in S. verticillata.
Association of low hemoglobin at birth and neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm neonates ≤28 weeks’ gestation: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mohamed Adel , Elkhouli Mohamed , Raghuram Kamini , Elhanafy Thanna , Asztalos Elizabeth , Banihani Rudaina , Shah Prakeshkumar
Published: December 2023

Objective To compare neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18–24 months corrected age (CA) for preterm infants who had hemoglobin levels < 120 gm/l versus those with hemoglobin level ≥ 120 gm/l at birth.Methods We included infants of ≤ 28 weeks gestational age (GA) born between January 2009 and June 2018. The primary outcome was neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) at 18–24 months. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to determine the association.Results Of the 2351 eligible neonates, 351 (14.9%) had hemoglobin levels < 120 gm/L at birth. Of the 2113 surviving infants, 1534 (72.5%) underwent developmental follow-up at 18 to 24 months CA. There was no statistically significant difference in ND outcomes between the two groups. The composite outcome of death or NDI was significantly higher in the low hemoglobin group.Conclusion In preterm infants ≤ 28 weeks GA, initial hemoglobin < 120 gm/L at birth was not associated with neurodevelopmental impairment at 18–24 months CA among survivors.
A Case of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Combined with Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Case Report
Authors: Lai Yuting , Xiao Shan , Yan Shen
Published: December 2023

Background Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organ systems. The standard treatment mainly relies on glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents. In our study, we present an EGPA patient who had pulmonary tuberculous mycobacteria infection, such casesare rarely reported.
Case presentations A 71-year-old male patient was diagnosed with EGPA (systemic type) and pulmonary tuberculosis simultaneously. A 5-factor score indicated that the patient required glucocorticoids combined with immunosuppressive agents for induction therapy, however, the use of immunosuppressive agents would significantly inhibit anti-tuberculosis treatment. Nowadays, treating active autoimmune disease in patients with infections remains a clinical challenge.
Considering the patient did not show life-threatening or severe organ involvement and reduced the effect of anti-tuberculosis immunity, we used glucocorticoids alone. Finally, the patient had no adverse events, the eosinophil counts were markedly decreased and symptoms of EGPA were relieved.
Conclusions The patient of EGPA combined with pulmonary tuberculosis successfully treated with glucocorticoids alone may provide significant support in selecting the appropriate treatments for similar cases in the future.
Postharvest Application of 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) Smart Fresh on quality of banana cv. Grand Naine
Authors: Jayavalli R
Published: December 2023

Maintaining the postharvest quality of fresh bananas is a major trading challenge of the industry. 1- Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) can prolong the postharvest quality of banana fruits by delaying the expression of ripening attributes and senescence through overtaking the binding of ethylene to its receptors thereby inhibiting ethylene signal transduction and downstream action. In the present study the treatments imposed were T1- Application of 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) 3.3% at 70mg/m3 (1ppm 1-MCP) in cold storage, T2- immediately after Application of 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) under room temperature, T3- Untreated control under cold storage, T4- Untreated control under room temperature or ambient temperature at 28 ± 20 C. (1-MCP) was applied for 14 hr (overnight) in an airtight container or in the 4 m3 tent with a fan inside to favour 1- MCP quick distribution. Observations were recorded for 5, 15 21 and 28 days under cold storage conditions of treated and untreated control fruits and without cold storage of treated and untreated control. The postharvest quality of ‘Grand Naine’ banana fruits such as peel yellowing, sensory firmness, TSS, visual quality, weight loss, shelf life and disease incidence under (1-MCP) for 14 hr (overnight) in an airtight container with a fan inside to favour 1- MCP quick distribution had prolonged the storage and shelf life of fruits. Moreover, weight loss of 1-MCP treated fruits was slower than control as evident on day 5 of storage onwards. Good visual quality of fruits treated with 1-MCP through gas exposure was maintained for 28 days of storage and control for 10 days only. However, disease incidence of the fruits among all 1-MCP treatment methods and control was comparable under similar storage condition and 1-MCP concentration.
Differences in Mental Health Characteristics of Athletes in Japanese Outpatient Clinics Pre- and Post-covid-19: a Cross-sectional Observational Study
Authors: Yamaguchi Tatsuya , Kitahara Akari , Sato Kazuki , Mimura Masaru
Published: December 2023

Background
Mental health disorders and symptoms in athletes have received increasing attention in recent decades, with the COVID-19 pandemic intensifying the psychological distress of athletes. While there have been numerous studies on athletes’ visits to mental health clinics in other countries, no study has been conducted on this topic in Japan. Therefore, this study investigated the differences in characteristics between athletes who visited mental health outpatient clinics before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
A cross-sectional observational survey was conducted using data used from Keio University General Hospital and three affiliated mental clinics. Our sample comprised 88 athletes who had visited various healthcare facilities between 2018 and 2022. The independent variable was the timing of their outpatient mental health clinic visits—either pre- or post-COVID-19. The primary outcome was the F classification based on the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision. We collected data on clinical psychiatric diagnoses, age, sex, referral pathway, and sports-related details like the type, level of contact, whether individual or team sport, involvement duration, and athletic competition level.
Results
Overall, 86 athletes (37 before COVID-19 and 49 after COVID-19) were included in the study. No significant differences were found between the pre- and post-COVID-19 groups overall. However, subgroup analyses revealed a significant increase in anxiety-related disorders among female athletes and an increase in the participation of male athletes in individual sports in the post-COVID-19 group compared to the pre-COVID-19 group.
Conclusion
The increased anxiety among female athletes and the increased participation in individual sports among male athletes suggest that these groups should be a high-priority target for early intervention and prevention strategies. This study contributes to our understanding of how COVID-19 has affected the mental health of athletes seeking medical treatment in Japan, and it highlights which segments of the Japanese athlete population may be more vulnerable to mental health issues in the post-COVID-19 era. This study also provides valuable insights for practitioners on how to target specific segments of the athlete population for the implementation of interventions aimed at mitigating the development of mental health issues after COVID-19.
Roles of estrogen receptors during sexual reversal in Pelodiscus sinensis
Authors: Chen Guobin , Zhou Tong , Cao Jizeng , Li Xiang , Zhu Chengjun , Wang Long , Zou Guiwei , Liang Hongwei
Published: December 2023

The Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, exhibits distinct sexual dimorphism, with the males growing faster and larger than the females. During breeding, all-male offspring can be obtained using 17β-estradiol (E2). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying E2-induced sexual reversal have not yet been elucidated. Previous studies have investigated the molecular sequence and expression characteristics of estrogen receptors (ERs). In this study, primary liver cells and embryos of P. sinensis were treated with ER agonists or inhibitors. Cell incubation experiments revealed that nuclear ERs (nERs) were the main pathway for the transmission of estrogen signals that was EB upregulated the expression of Rspo1, whereas AS downregulated. The expression of Dmrt1 was enhanced after AS + G-1 treatment, indicating that the regulation of male genes may not be through a single estrogen receptor, but a combination of ERs. As to embryos, only the ERα agonist (EB) remarkably promoted the expression levels of Rspo1, Wnt4, and β-catenin, whereas the ERα inhibitor (AS) had a suppressive effect. Additionally, Dmrt1, Amh, and Sox9 expression levels were downregulated after ERβ inhibitor (PHTPP) treatment. GPER agonist G-1 has a significant promotion effect on Rspo1, Wnt4, and β-catenin, while the inhibitor G-15 has no effect on male-related genes. Overall, these results suggest that ERs play different roles during sexual reversal in P. sinensis and ERa may be the main carrier of estrogen-induced sexual reversal in P. sinensis. Further studies need to be performed to analyze the mechanism of ER action.