bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcultural validation of the basic empathy scale for children in Arabic language: psychometric properties among schoolchildren in Tunisia
Authors: Chokri Imed , Peyrotte Marianne , Zanna Omar , Jarraya Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Introduction

To date, there is no empathy test specifically designed in the Arabic language for children. When administered in the Arab world, these tests are often provided in French or English, known to induce numerous intercultural biases.

Aim

The objective of our study is to, for the first time, propose a translation and validation of the Basic Empathy Scale for Children in the Arabic language.

Method

Five hundred and thirty three Tunisian schoolchildren (age = 10.15 ± 1.39 years, 55.2% girls and 44.8% boys) participated voluntarily in the study. The students answered tow scales that measure the Empathy and the social desirability.

Result

The Arabic version of the BES-C demonstrated a 3-factor structure: cognitive empathy, emotional contagion, and emotional disconnection previously observed in other cultural contexts. McDonald’s omega is 0.72 for the Arabic version of the BES-C. The test–retest intra-class correlation coefficient over six weeks (n = 180) was 0.67. The findings show an increase in cognitive empathy with age, stability in emotional contagion, and a gradual decrease in emotional disconnection. Girls scored higher in emotional contagion, while boys showed a slight predominance of emotional disconnection. No significant gender differences were found in cognitive empathy.

Conclusion

The Arabic version of the BES-C is a dependable tool for evaluating empathy in Arabic-speaking children, paving the way for its use in cross-cultural research and specialized interventions.
Exposure to brominated flame retardants in utero and through lactation delays the development of DMBA-induced mammary cancer: potential effects on subtypes?
Authors: Juarez Melany N. , McDermott Alec , Wade Michael G. , Plante Isabelle
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are chemical compounds used to reduce the flammability of various products; some BFRs exhibit endocrine-disrupting properties and can leach into the environment leading to human and wildlife exposure. The mammary gland has specific vulnerability windows during which it is more sensitive to the effects of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs), such as the in utero life, puberty and pregnancy. Our previous studies revealed precocious mammary gland development, disruptions in junctional proteins, and altered proliferation-apoptosis balance during puberty in rats exposed to BFRs in utero and through lactation. Such effects have been associated with increased mammary cancer risk.

Objective

The current study aimed to determine if in utero and lactational exposure to BFRs renders the mammary gland more susceptible to 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary cancer.

Methods

Dams were exposed to a BFRs mixture (0. 0.06 or 60 mg/kg/day), and mammary cancer was induced in pups using DMBA at post-natal day 46. Tumors onset and growth were monitored, and tumors were characterized using histology and molecular biology.

Results

Although BFRs exposure did not significantly affect mammary tumor number or burden, it showed significant delay in mammary tumor onset and growth in BFR-exposed animal. These effects could potentially be due to BFRs’ impact on cellular responses, DMBA metabolism, or mammary gland shift of the sensitivity window. Molecular analysis of mammary tumors showed a shift in the ratio of luminal A, luminal B, and (HER2)-enriched tumors, and an increase in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtypes in BFR-exposed animals. Additionally, BFRs exposure showed lung lesions indicative of inflammation, independent of mammary cancer development.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the complex relationship between BFRs exposure and mammary cancer risk, emphasizing the need for further investigation into underlying mechanisms and long-term effects of BFRs on mammary gland development and carcinogenesis.
Spatiotemporal pattern of water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) distribution in Lake Tana, Ethiopia, using a random forest machine learning model
Authors: Belayhun Matiwos , Chere Zerihun , Abay Nigus Gebremedhn , Nicola Yonas , Asmamaw Abay
Published: November 2024

Water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) is an invasive weed that covers a significant portion of Lake Tana. The infestation has an impact on the lake’s ecological and socioeconomic systems. Early detection of the spread of water hyacinth using geospatial techniques is crucial for its effective management and control. The main objective of this study was to examine the spatiotemporal distribution of water hyacinth from 2016 to 2022 using a random forest machine learning model. The study used 16 variables obtained from Sentinel-2A, Sentinel-1 SAR, and SRTM DEM, and a random forest supervised classification model was applied. Seven spectral indices, five spectral bands, two Sentinel-1 SAR bands, and two topographic variables were used in combination to model the spatial distribution of water hyacinth. The model was evaluated using the overall accuracy and kappa coefficient. The findings demonstrated that the overall accuracy ranged from 0.91 to 0.94 and kappa coefficient from 0.88 to 0.92 in the wet season and 0.93 to 0.95 and 0.90 to 0.93 in the dry season, respectively. B11 and B5 (2022), VH, soil adjusted vegetation index (SAVI), and normalized difference water index (NDWI) (2020), B5 and B12 (2018), and VH and slope (2016) are the highly important variables in the classification. The study found that the spatial coverage of water hyacinth was 686.5 and 650.4 ha (2016), 1,851 and 1,259 ha (2018), 1,396.7 and 1,305.7 ha (2020), and 1,436.5 and 1,216.5 ha (2022) in the wet and dry seasons, respectively. The research findings indicate that variables derived from optical (Sentinel-2A and SRTM) and non-optical (Sentinel-1 SAR) satellite imagery effectively identify water hyacinth and display its spatiotemporal spread using the random forest machine learning algorithm.
Cognitive enrichment for testing prosocial food-sharing in dolphin groups
Authors: Matrai Eszter , Kwok Shaw Ting , Tan Ziying , Lin Xiao , Lee Wei-Kwan , Martelli Paolo , Pogány Ákos
Published: November 2024

Cognitive enrichments have gained popularity in the past two decades in both farm animal and zoological settings. In this study, we present a cognitive enrichment device that, for the first time, allowed testing for prosocial food-sharing actions in dolphins. The device was made of a PVC tube and two caps with rope handles; one handle was fixed to the poolside whereas the other was available for the dolphins. Its internal structure kept five fish in place while maintaining a closed status. The dolphin who pulled the rope handle could not access the fish but allowed another individual to access it. Once the handle was released, however, the device closed back. The device was tested with a male and a female group, separately. The males obtained approximately a third, while the females acquired none of the fish using the device. Moreover, the males were observed to open the device more frequently and longer in the presence of their group members and with consistent roles. These results provide the first support of male dolphins’ willingness to engage in food-sharing that could be considered as an altruistic action. It also provides basis for further investigations on more detailed and long-term monitoring of the emergence and consequences of such cooperative actions.
Unbiased immunome characterisation correlates with COVID-19 mRNA vaccine failure in immunocompromised adults
Authors: H-Vázquez Juan , Cal-Sabater Paloma , Arribas-Rodríguez Elisa , Fiz-López Aida , Perez-Segurado Candido , Martín-Muñoz Álvaro , De Prado Ángel , Perez Mazzali Marina , de Castro Carolina G. , del Hierro Alejandro G. , de la Fuente Graciani Ignacio , Pérez González Sonia , Gutiérrez Sara , Tellería Pablo , Novoa Cristina , Rojo Rello Silvia , Garcia-Blesa Antonio , Sedano Rosa , Martínez García Ana María , Garcinuño Pérez Sonsoles , Domínguez-Gil Marta , Hernán García Cristina , Guerra Ma Mercedes , Muñoz-Sánchez Eduardo , Barragan-Pérez Cristina , Diez Morales Soraya , Casazza Donnarumma Oriana , Ramos Pollo Daniel , Santamarta Solla Natalia , Álvarez Manzanares Paula Ma , Bravo Sara , García Alonso Cristina , Avendaño Fernández Luis Alberto , Gay Alonso Jenifer , Garrote José A. , Arranz Eduardo , Eiros José María , Rescalvo Santiago Fernando , Quevedo Villegas Carolina , Tamayo Eduardo , Orduña Antonio , Dueñas Carlos , Peñarrubia María Jesús , Cuesta-Sancho Sara , Montoya María , Bernardo David
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects the population unequally, with a greater impact on older and immunosuppressed people.

Methods

Hence, we performed a prospective experimental cohort study to characterise the effect of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination in immune-compromised patients (older adults and oncohaematologic patients), compared with healthy counterparts, based on deep characterisation of the circulating immune cell subsets.

Results and discussion

While acquired humoral and cellular memory did not predict subsequent infection 18 months after full vaccination, spectral and computational cytometry revealed several subsets within the CD8+ T-cells, B-cells, natural killer (NK) cells, monocytes and TEMRA Tγδ cells that were differentially expressed in individuals who were subsequently infected and not infected not just following immunisation, but also prior to vaccination. Of note, we found up to seven clusters within the TEMRA Tγδ cell population, with some of them being expanded and others decreased in subsequently infected individuals. Moreover, some of these cellular clusters were also related to COVID-19-induced hospitalisation in oncohaematologic patients. Therefore, we have identified a cellular signature that even before vaccination is related to COVID-19 vulnerability as opposed to the acquisition of cellular and/or humoral memory following vaccination with SARS-CoV-2 messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines.
Molecular genetics in adult-onset Still’s disease: next-generation sequencing in 24 patients and literature review
Authors: Prieto-Peña Diana , Labrador-Sánchez Eztizen , Melero-González Rafael B. , Antón-Pagés Fred , Palmou-Fontana Natalia , Alvarez-Reguera Carmen , Paz-Gandiaga Nerea , Blanco Ricardo
Published: November 2024

Objective

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) panels are increasingly used for the diagnosis of monogenic systemic autoinflammatory diseases (SAIDs). However, their role in patients with adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) remains unknown. This study aims to assess the usefulness of NGS panels in AOSD patients to improve diagnosis and management of the disease.

Methods

This observational, multicenter study included all patients with AOSD diagnosis who underwent NGS panel testing in northern Spain. Clinical manifestations, laboratory parameters, complications, and therapeutic responses were recorded.

Results

A total of 24 patients (16 men, 8 women) with an average age of 42.2 ± 17.9 (mean ± SD) years, in whom NGS was performed, fulfilled the Yamaguchi and/or Fautrel criteria for AOSD. The most common symptoms, apart from fever, were skin rash (75%), asthenia (91.7%), and articular manifestations (91.7%). All patients had elevated acute-phase reactant levels and hyperferritinemia. Almost all patients received oral glucocorticoids as initial therapy. Conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (cDMARDs) were used in 17 (70.8%) patients and biologic therapy in 13 (54.1%) patients. Genetic variants were observed in 5 (20.8%) patients. None of them were classified as pathogenic. Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) were identified in NOD2 (c.2104C>T and c.2251G>A), TNFRSF1A (c.224C>T), TNFAIP3 (c.1939A>C), and SCN9A (c.2617G>A). Atypical manifestations and/or therapeutic refractoriness were observed in patients carrying genetic variants, except for one patient with the TNFAIP3 VUS. Four out of five patients with VUS had a severe and refractory course of the disease and required biologic therapy.

Conclusion

NGS was useful to rule out the presence of pathogenic genetic variants related to other SAIDs and to detect VUS that may help identify patients at risk for atypical and severe manifestations and poor response to conventional therapy.
Climatic variables and their relationship with vector-borne disease cases in Colombia, 2011-2021
Authors: Gastelbondo-Pastrana Bertha , Echeverri-De la Hoz Daniel , Sanchez Liliana , García Yuranis , Espitia-Delgado Yeiner , Lopez Yalile , Yasnot-Acosta Maria F. , Arrieta German , Mattar Salim
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Vector-borne diseases are a public health problem in tropical countries, especially Malaria, Leishmaniasis, Chagas, and the arboviral diseases Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika. Tropical diseases represent a significant challenge to health systems in developing countries.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the association between climatic variables and primary vector-borne diseases in Colombia between 2011-2021.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the epidemiological data of Malaria, Leishmania, Chagas, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika and the climatic data recorded in 2011-2021 was carried out. The cases were obtained from SIVIGILA of the Colombian Ministry of Health. The climatic data were obtained from WorldClim.

Results

Leishmania, Malaria, and Chagas occur in the departments of Caquetá (located in the Amazon rainforest), Chocó (known for its high rainfall), and Casanare (a region with a high prevalence of Chagas disease). There was no statistical correlation between the number of cases and climatic variables, except for malaria cases in which precipitation had a Pearson correlation value of 0.415. The results predicted an increase of 1.469 malaria cases for every unit increase in precipitation. The cases of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya had similar behavior, with the majority occurring in the departments of Valle del Cauca, Antioquia, Norte de Santander, and Bolívar.

Conclusions

Except for Malaria, the distribution of cases did not directly correlate with temperature and precipitation. Temperature and precipitation did not explain the epidemiological profile of the studied diseases.
Modeling Atlantic herring distribution in the Northeast Atlantic for informed decision-making towards sustainable fisheries
Authors: Standaert Ward , Musimwa Rutendo , Stevens Martha , Guerra Jesus Alonso , Muñiz Carlota , Debusschere Elisabeth , Pint Steven , Everaert Gert
Published: November 2024

The withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union will likely result in reduced fishing grounds for the Belgian fishing fleet. This fleet now targets demersal fish, but there used to be a tradition of catching Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus). After the stock collapse of Atlantic herring in the 1970s, fishing on herring by the Belgian fleet did not recover and herring quotas are now exchanged with the Netherlands and Germany. To assess the feasibility of reintroducing herring fisheries for the Belgian fishing fleet, our study created spatiotemporal species distribution models for Atlantic herring in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, focusing results on the Belgian Part of the North Sea. In total 30078 occurrence records were derived and processed to fit species-environmental relationships with temperature, salinity, seabed characteristics and plankton concentration using Maximum entropy (Maxent) models. The Area Under the Curve of the Receiver Operating Characteristic plot (AUC) and the True Skill Statistic (TSS) were used to assess model fit. Models performed well (AUC > 0.7 and TSS > 0.6). While a broad spatiotemporal distribution of Atlantic herring in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean was inferred, regional differences show that herring habitat is most suitable during winter months in the Belgian Part of the North Sea for both adult and larval herring (habitat suitability index > 75%). This regional trend in the Belgian Part of the North Sea was negatively correlated (R = -0.8) with the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). We anticipate that these findings will provide valuable insights for policymakers to implement sustainable fisheries management practices.
Identification of the first gestational ground for tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) in the Central Indian Ocean using a high-definition submersible ultrasound
Authors: Sulikowski James A. , Perisic Nathan , Askin Arzucan , Vossgaetter Lennart , Bocchi Filippo , Hussain Ali Didi Hamna , Inah Ahmed , Ivanova Tatiana
Published: November 2024

The reproductive state of wild, free-swimming tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier), was assessed using underwater ultrasonography at a diving site in Fuvahmulah, a Maldivian atoll within the central Indian Ocean. The presence of embryos were observed in 93% of the adult sharks (26/28) and two distinct embryonic size groups were observed within the subset of scanned adult females. The results suggest that the observed dive site functions as a gestation ground and builds upon previous work that emphasizes the importance of dive sites for the collection of biological data for shark conservation and management.
Prediction and analysis of strength and economic feasibility of filling materials under the influence of mix proportion and curing age
Authors: Zhang Yueying , Liang Huizhen , Fei Shanshan , Zhang Aijun , Yu Juan , Qin Xuebin
Published: November 2024

The research aims to investigate the effects of proportion and age of maintenance on the strength and economy of filling materials, in order to provide theoretical guidance and technical support for the management of coal mined-out area. Firstly, adjustments are made to the proportioning and maintenance age of the fill materials, and experiments are conducted to explore the strength performance of materials under different proportions. Secondly, GANs is utilized to expand the dataset, and an MLP-LSTM network is constructed to predict the strength of materials experiencing different maintenance ages under various proportions. Finally, integrating practical engineering applications, an economic viability prediction analysis is conducted to examine the cost of fill materials under different proportions and maintenance ages, along with their influencing factors. The results indicate that appropriate adjustments to proportioning can effectively enhance the strength of fill materials, whereas excessively high or low proportions may lead to unstable or surplus strength. Extending the maintenance age can to some extent improve the material’s strength, but it also increases maintenance costs, necessitating a comprehensive balance in terms of economic viability. Consequently, this research offers a theoretical foundation and practical guidelines for optimizing mixture proportions and selecting appropriate curing ages, providing valuable insights for enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of coal mined-out area filling treatments.
Bibliometric and visual analysis of radiomics for evaluating lymph node status in oncology
Authors: Lyu Gui-Wen , Tong Tong , Yang Gen-Dong , Zhao Jing , Xu Zi-Fan , Zheng Na , Zhang Zhi-Fang
Published: November 2024

Background

Radiomics, which involves the conversion of digital images into high-dimensional data, has been used in oncological studies since 2012. We analyzed the publications that had been conducted on this subject using bibliometric and visual methods to expound the hotpots and future trends regarding radiomics in evaluating lymph node status in oncology.

Methods

Documents published between 2012 and 2023, updated to August 1, 2024, were searched using the Scopus database. VOSviewer, R Package, and Microsoft Excel were used for visualization.

Results

A total of 898 original articles and reviews written in English and be related to radiomics for evaluating lymph node status in oncology, published between 2015 and 2023, were retrieved. A significant increase in the number of publications was observed, with an annual growth rate of 100.77%. The publications predominantly originated from three countries, with China leading in the number of publications and citations. Fudan University was the most contributing affiliation, followed by Sun Yat-sen University and Southern Medical University, all of which were from China. Tian J. from the Chinese Academy of Sciences contributed the most within 5885 authors. In addition, Frontiers in Oncology had the most publications and transcended other journals in recent 4 years. Moreover, the keywords co-occurrence suggested that the interplay of “radiomics” and “lymph node metastasis,” as well as “major clinical study” were the predominant topics, furthermore, the focused topics shifted from revealing the diagnosis of cancers to exploring the deep learning-based prediction of lymph node metastasis, suggesting the combination of artificial intelligence research would develop in the future.

Conclusion

The present bibliometric and visual analysis described an approximately continuous trend of increasing publications related to radiomics in evaluating lymph node status in oncology and revealed that it could serve as an efficient tool for personalized diagnosis and treatment guidance in clinical patients, and combined artificial intelligence should be further considered in the future.
Skin microbiota during metamorphosis of Quasipaa spinosa: guidance for maintaining mucosal symbiotic microbial flora homeostasis in early life of frogs
Authors: Hou Jinliang , Tan Yu , Huang Yanfei , Li Hong , Li Deliang , Liu Xinhua , Li Junhua , Hu Yazhou , Xiang Jianguo
Published: November 2024

The skin microbiota plays an essential role in helping the host adapt to different environments and maintain health. By examining the characteristics of amphibian skin flora alongside ontogenetic traits, we can gain insights into the adaptation mechanisms of amphibian skin flora to environmental changes during development. In this study, we analyzed the skin microbiota of Quasipaa spinosa during metamorphosis using Illumina sequencing. Venn diagrams and UpSet analysis revealed that the LTS (hindlimb tadpoles’ skin, aquatic habitat) and FTS (forelimb tadpoles’ skin, shift from aquatic to amphibious habitats) groups exhibited a higher number of unique amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), while the TS (tadpoles’ skin, aquatic habitat) and LFS (land frogs’ skin, amphibious habitats) groups displayed a lower abundance of ASVs. Diversity analysis indicated similarities in the microorganisms between the LTS and the FTS groups, with higher microbial diversity compared to the TS and the LFS groups. Additionally, microbial co-occurrence network analysis indicated a more stable microecology in the LTS group and FTS group. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidota were identified as the dominant phyla, although their relative abundances varied widely among groups. LEfSe (Linear discriminant analysis effect size) showed significant enrichment of beneficial bacteria at various developmental stages, including Bacteroides, Bacillus, and Lactobacillus. Functional prediction analysis shows significant differences in skin microorganism functions across various developmental stages, with a primary focus on metabolic functions. This study provides valuable insights into the compositional dynamics of skin microbiota in Q. spinosa at various developmental stages.
Disorders of acid-base balance promote rumen lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis in dairy cows by modulating the microbiome
Authors: Hou Guobin , You Jingtao , Zhuang Yimin , Gao Duo , Xu Yiming , Jiang Wen , Li Sumin , Zhao Xinjie , Chen Tianyu , Zhang Siyuan , Liu Shuai , Wang Wei , Li Shengli , Cao Zhijun
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Disorders of acid-base balance in the rumen of dairy cows have a significant impact on their health and performance. However, the effect of transient differences in pH on susceptibility to subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis in dairy cows remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, milk, serum, and rumen fluid samples from 40 Holstein dairy cows (on d 56 postpartum) with different rumen pH (2–4 h after morning feeding) were explored to investigate the difference of susceptibility to SARA and the correlation between microbiome, LPS and inflammation. These cows were categorized into low pH (LPH, pH ≤ 6.0, n = 20) and high pH (HPH, pH ≥ 6.5, n = 20) groups.

Results

The results showed that LPH group increased the concentrations of total volatile fatty acids, acetate, propionate, butyrate and valerate. However, milk yield and milk compositions were unaffected. Compared to the HPH group, the LPH group increased the concentrations of serum BHBA, NEFA, LPS, HIS, IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA, and decreased the concentrations of serum IgA, IgM, IgG, SOD, T-AOC, and mTOR. In addition, the LPH group decreased the copies of Ruminococcus flavefaciens and increased the copies of Fibrobacter succinogenes. Microbial community analysis isupplendicated a significant difference in bacterial composition between the two groups. At the phylum level, Bacteroidota and Firmicutes were enriched in the LPH and HPH groups, respectively. At the genus level, the dominant bacteria in the LPH group were Prevotella. Additionally, the LPH group increased the proportions of Gram-negative phenotypes, potentially pathogenic phenotypes and LPS biosynthesis. The close correlation between two key enzymes for LPS synthesis LpxL and LpxM with rumen pH, inflammatory markers, and microorganisms indicates that low pH may increase the risk of inflammation by facilitating the lysis of Gram-negative bacteria and the release of penta-acylated LPS. Penta-acylated and hexa-acylated LPS may be mainly derived from Prevotella and Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-001, respectively.

Discussion

Overall, these results support the notion that transient low pH could reflect the risk of cows suffering from SARA and associated inflammation and is strongly associated with penta-acylated LPS. Our findings provide new insights into ruminant health improvement and disease prevention strategies.
Unveiling the whole genomic features and potential probiotic characteristics of novel Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HMX2
Authors: Aziz Tariq , Naveed Muhammad , Shabbir Muhammad Aqib , Sarwar Abid , Naseeb Jasra , Zhao Liqing , Yang Zhennai , Cui Haiying , Lin Lin , Albekairi Thamer H.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the genomic features and probiotic potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HMX2, isolated from Chinese Sauerkraut, using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and bioinformatics for the first time. This study also aims to find genetic diversity, antibiotic resistance genes, and functional capabilities to help us better understand its food safety applications and potential as a probiotic. L. plantarum HMX2 was cultured, and DNA was extracted for WGS. Genomic analysis comprised average nucleotide identity (ANI) prediction, genome annotation, pangenome, and synteny analysis. Bioinformatics techniques were used to identify CoDing Sequences (CDSs), transfer RNA (tRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and antibiotic resistance genes, as well as to conduct phylogenetic analysis to establish genetic diversity and evolution. The study found a significant genetic similarity (99.17% ANI) between L. plantarum HMX2 and the reference strain. Genome annotation revealed 3,242 coding sequences, 65 tRNA genes, and 16 rRNA genes. Significant genetic variety was found, including 25 antibiotic resistance genes. A phylogenetic study placed L. plantarum HMX2 among closely related bacteria, emphasizing its potential for probiotic and food safety applications. The genomic investigation of L. plantarum showed essential genes, including plnJK and plnEF, which contribute to antibacterial action against foodborne pathogens. Furthermore, genes such as MurA, Alr, and MprF improve food safety and probiotic potential by promoting bacterial survival under stress conditions in food and the gastrointestinal tract. This study introduces the new genomic features of L. plantarum HMX2 about specific genetics and its possibility of relevant uses in food security and technologies. These findings of specific genes involved in antimicrobial activity provide fresh possibilities for exploiting this strain in forming probiotic preparations and food preservation methods. The future research should focus on the experimental validation of antibiotic resistance genes, comparative genomics to investigate functional diversity, and the development of novel antimicrobial therapies that take advantage of L. plantarum's capabilities.
The role of serum α-Klotho levels in preventing hearing impairment among middle-aged and older adults: insights from a nationally representative sample
Authors: Wang Siyuan , Sun Wen , Ding Chan , Zhou Wenxin , Zhang Min , Xu Huadong
Published: November 2024

Background

The Klotho gene is implicated in suppressing aging phenotypes and influencing age-related diseases. Previous studies have delved into its connection with different diseases, yet the association between Klotho and hearing loss has rarely been examined. A recent population study explored the relationship between serum Klotho and hearing loss, but it had certain limitations. This study aims to analyze the link between serum α-Klotho levels and hearing thresholds, as well as the risk of hearing loss.

Methods

A total of 1,762 adults aged 40–69 years were selected from the 2011–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Data on audiometry, serum α-Klotho levels, and relevant covariates were gathered. Statistical analyses, including linear and logistic regression, assessed the relationships of serum α-Klotho levels with hearing outcomes.

Results

Increased serum α-Klotho levels were correlated with diminished hearing thresholds and a lower risk of hearing loss. Quartile analysis revealed a significant trend, where elevated α-Klotho levels were linked to better auditory outcomes. Adjusted models controlled for various covariates, affirming the robustness of the findings. Non-linear associations were not observed.

Conclusion

This study provided novel evidence of a negative association between serum α-Klotho and hearing impairment in adults aged 40–69. Our results suggested a protective role of serum α-Klotho on adults with hearing loss.
Trajectories of cognitive function and frailty in older adults in China: a longitudinal study
Authors: Ji Xiaoyi , Wu Yue , Gu Zijie , Zhong Zhujun , Wang Kerui , Ye Suni , Wan Yang , Qiu Peiyuan
Published: November 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment and frailty are common issues in older adults. Understanding the co-development trajectories of these conditions can provide valuable sights for early detection and intervention in high-risk individuals.

Objectives

This study aims to identify the co-development of cognitive function and frailty and explore the associated characteristics.

Methods

We analyzed data from 8,418 individuals aged 55 years and above who participated in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey between 2011 and 2018. Group-based dual trajectory modeling and logistic regression were used to identify trajectory groups and assess associations with risk factors.

Results

Two distinct dual trajectories were identified: “Consistently Robust” group (76.12%) and “Consistently Severe” group (23.88%). Factors such as being female, older age, lower levels of education, residing in rural areas, being unmarried, and having comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, complete tooth loss, vision impairment, or hearing impairment were associated with a higher likelihood of being assigned to the “Consistently Severe” group.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a co-development pattern between cognitive function and frailty in Chinese older adults aged 55 years and above. While cognitive impairment may be irreversible, frailty is a condition that can be potentially reversed. Early detecting is crucial in preventing cognitive decline, considering the shared trajectory of these conditions.
Multiple mechanisms of aminoglycoside ototoxicity are distinguished by subcellular localization of action
Authors: Wu Patricia , Barros-Becker Francisco , Ogelman Roberto , Camci Esra D. , Linbo Tor H. , Simon Julian A. , Rubel Edwin W. , Raible David W.
Published: November 2024

Mechanosensory hair cells of the inner ears and lateral line of vertebrates display heightened vulnerability to environmental insult, with damage resulting in hearing and balance disorders. An important example is hair cell loss due to exposure to toxic agents including therapeutic drugs such as the aminoglycoside antibiotics neomycin and gentamicin and antineoplastic agents. We describe two distinct cellular pathways for aminoglycoside-induced hair cell death in zebrafish lateral line hair cells. Neomycin exposure results in death from acute exposure with most cells dying within 1 h of exposure. By contrast, exposure to gentamicin results primarily in delayed hair cell death, taking up to 24 h for maximal effect. Washout experiments demonstrate that delayed death does not require continuous exposure, demonstrating two mechanisms where downstream responses differ in their timing. Acute damage is associated with mitochondrial calcium fluxes and can be alleviated by the mitochondrially-targeted antioxidant mitoTEMPO, while delayed death is independent of these factors. Conversely delayed death is associated with lysosomal accumulation and is reduced by altering endolysosomal function, while acute death is not sensitive to lysosomal manipulations. These experiments reveal the complexity of responses of hair cells to closely related compounds, suggesting that intervention focusing on early events rather than specific death pathways may be a successful therapeutic strategy.
Post-translational modifications of beta-amyloid modulate its effect on cell mechanical properties and influence cytoskeletal signaling cascades
Authors: Varshavskaya Kseniya B. , Barykin Evgeny P. , Timoshenko Roman V. , Kolmogorov Vasilii S. , Erofeev Alexander S. , Gorelkin Petr V. , Mitkevich Vladimir A. , Makarov Alexander A.
Published: November 2024

Post-translational modifications of beta-amyloid (Aβ) play an important role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Aβ modifications such as Ser8 phosphorylation (pS8-Aβ42) and Asp7 isomerization (iso-Aβ42) can significantly alter the properties of Aβ and have been detected in vivo. One of the reasons for the different pathogenicity of Aβ isoforms may be the activation of different signaling cascades leading to changes in the mechanical properties of cells. In this paper, we used correlative scanning ion-conductance microscopy (SICM) and Pt-nanoelectrodes to compare the effects of Aβ isoforms on the Young’s modulus of SH-SY5Y cells and the level of ROS. It was found that unmodified Aβ42 resulted in the largest increase in cell Young’s modulus of all isoforms after 4 h of incubation, while pS8-Aβ42 induced the greatest increase in stiffness and ROS levels after 24 h of incubation. Analysis of signaling proteins involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton showed that Aβ42, pS8-Aβ42 and iso-Aβ42 have different effects on cofilin, GSK3β, LIMK, ERK and p38. This indicates that post-translational modifications of Aβ modulate its effect on neuronal cells through the activation of various signaling cascades, which affects the mechanical properties of cells.
Changing maternal and child nutrition practices through integrating social and behavior change interventions in community-based self-help and support groups: literature review from Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam
Authors: Verma Anumeha , Nguyen Tuan , Purty Appolenarius , Pradhan Narottam , Husan Alomgir , Zambrano Paul , Mahmud Zeba , Ghosh Sebanti , Mathisen Roger , Forissier Thomas
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Self-help groups (SHGs) and Support Groups (SGs) are increasingly recognized as effective mechanisms for improving maternal and young child nutrition due to their decentralized, community-based structures. While numerous studies have evaluated the outcomes and impact of SHGs and SGs on nutrition practices, there remains a gap in the literature. To address this, we conducted a literature review to examine the role of SHGs and SGs in improving health and nutrition outcomes, focusing on marginalized women, especially pregnant and lactating women (PLW), in India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam, with an emphasis on programs supported by the international non-governmental initiative, Alive & Thrive.

Methods and materials

We conducted a literature review to assess various models, summarizing findings from 34 documents, including research studies, evaluation reports, program materials, strategies, annual reports, work plans, and toolkits. Relevant information from these documents was extracted using predetermined forms.

Results

In India, the models used SHGs with 10–20 women, federated into larger village and district organizations. Bangladesh and Vietnam SGs have similar structures but with local leaders and committees playing key roles. In all three countries, interventions aimed to improve health and nutrition practices through social behavior change (SBC) interventions, including peer-to-peer learning, interpersonal communication, home visits, and community meetings. Outcomes of the interventions showed that SHG members had increased knowledge of breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and improved dietary diversity compared to non-SHG participants. Interventions helped improve infant and young child feeding practices. Common challenges included sustaining the SHGs, ensuring adequate participation, socio-cultural barriers, and logistical difficulties in reaching PLW in remote areas. Limited time for health topics during SHG meetings and the dissolution of older SHGs were also significant issues.

Conclusion

SHG and SG models demonstrate success in improving health and nutrition outcomes but face challenges in scale, sustainability, and participation. Integrating nutrition-focused SBC interventions into SHGs and SGs requires significant capacity building for technical and counseling skills. Ensuring comprehensive coverage and robust quality assessment during community-based rollouts is essential. To sustain these interventions, it is crucial to prevent group dissolution, allow time for maturation, and secure strong stakeholder engagement and political support.
Incidental discovery of invasive lobular carcinoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma during sentinel lymph node biopsy: a case report
Authors: Kim Euitae
Published: November 2024

This study reports a rare case of concurrent invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) of the breast and ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) detected during sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). A 55-year-old female underwent breast cancer surgery following abnormal breast screening results, revealing ILC histologically. Unexpectedly, SLNB identified ALCL, later confirmed on pathology. The patient received no ALCL-specific treatment due to lack of additional lesions and remained recurrence-free post-surgery. The paper discusses diagnostic challenges, emphasizing comprehensive evaluation and multidisciplinary collaboration. It highlights the rarity of simultaneous ALCL and breast cancer without prior radiation, stressing the importance of clinical vigilance. Despite challenges in differentiation and treatment optimization, individualized patient care is crucial. Further research into concurrent ALCL and breast cancer is essential for improved management strategies. This case underscores complexities in managing rare malignancies and emphasizes the need for tailored approaches for optimal patient outcomes.
Intraoperative optical coherence tomography imaging for assessment of anterior chamber gas fill
Authors: Tseng Michael , Thau Avrey , Berkowitz Carla , Ramaprasad Abhijit , Basti Surendra
Published: November 2024

Introduction

During endothelial keratoplasty, anterior chamber gas is titrated to a desired fill, which is difficult to optimize by visualization alone. This study evaluates how an anterior chamber gas fill correlates with intraocular pressure (IOP) and iris-angle configuration as identified by optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

Eleven cadaveric eyes were studied in three configurations: baseline, air-fill just spanning limbus-to-limbus (“full-fill”), and air-fill maximally filling the anterior chamber (“overfill”). At each configuration, IOP was measured by Tonopen and iris-angle was determined by analyzing OCT images.

Results

No differences in IOP or irisangles were identified between baseline and full-fill configurations (p=0.113 and p=0.152, respectively). When compared to overfill configuration, differences in IOP and iris-angles were identified for baseline (p<0.001 and p=0.001, respectively) and full-fill configuration (p=0.001 and p=0.039, respectively).

Discussion

These findings highlight that en-face visualization of full-fill may not be indicative of IOP elevation. A significant difference in IOP and iris-angle exists between full-fill and overfill configurations. Intraoperative OCT can serve as a useful surrogate to identify the extent of fill.
High-density lipoprotein protects normotensive and hypertensive rats against ischemia-reperfusion injury through differential regulation of mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling
Authors: Al-Othman Reham , Al-Jarallah Aishah , Babiker Fawzi
Published: November 2024

Background

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Mammalian target of rapamycin complexes 1 and 2 (mTORC1 and mTORC2) play opposing roles in protecting against I/R injury, whereby mTORC1 appears to be detrimental while mTORC2 is protective. However, the role of HDL and mTORC signaling in protecting against I/R in hypertensive rodents is not clearly understood. In this study, we investigated the involvement of mTORC1 and mTORC2 in HDL-mediated protection against myocardial I/R injury in normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

Methods

Hearts from WKY and SHR were subjected to I/R injury using a modified Langendorff system. Hemodynamics data were collected, and infarct size was measured. Rapamycin and JR-AB2-011 were used to test the role of mTORC1 and mTORC2, respectively. MK-2206 was used to test the role of Akt in HDL-mediated cardiac protection. The expression levels and the activation states of mediators of mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling and myocardial apoptosis were measured by immunoblotting and/or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

HDL protected hearts from WKY and SHR against I/R injury as indicated by significant improvements in cardiac hemodynamics and reduction in infarct size. HDL induced greater protection in WKY compared to SHR. HDL treatment attenuated mTORC1 signaling in WKY by reducing the phosphorylation of P70S6K (mTORC1 substrate). In SHR however, HDL attenuated mTORC1 signaling by reducing the levels of phospho-mTORC1, Rag C (mTORC1 activator), and phospho-PRAS40 (mTORC1 inhibitor). HDL increased the phosphorylation of mTORC2 substrate Akt, specifically the Akt2 isoform in SHR and to a greater extent in WKY. HDL-induced protection was abolished in the presence of Akt antagonist and involved attenuation of GSK, caspases 7 and 8 activation, and cytochrome C release.

Conclusion

HDL mediates cardiac protection via attenuation of mTORC1, activation of mTORC2-Akt2, and inhibition of myocardial apoptosis. HDL regulates mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling via distinct mechanisms in normotensive and hypertensive rats. HDL attenuation of mTORC1 and activation of mTORC2-Akt2 signaling could be a mechanism by which HDL protects against myocardial I/R injury in hypertension.
Bmal1 haploinsufficiency impairs fear memory and modulates neuroinflammation via the 5-HT2C receptor
Authors: Li Weifen , Mou Shengnan , Ali Tahir , Li Tianxiang , Liu Yan , Li Shupeng , Yu Xiaoming , Yu Zhi-Jian
Published: November 2024

Background

BMAL1, a key regulator of circadian rhythms, plays a multifaceted role in brain function. However, the complex interplay between BMAL1, memory, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter regulation remains poorly understood. To investigate these interactions, we conducted a study using BMAL1-haplodeficient mice (BMAL1+/−).

Methods

We exposed BMAL1+/− mice to behavioral assessments including cued fear conditioning, new objection recognition (NOR) test, and Y-maze test to evaluate BMAL1+/− haplodeficiency impact on memory. Furthermore, biochemical changes were analyzed through western blotting, and ELISA to explore further the mechanism of BMAL1+/− in memory, and neuroinflammation.

Results

We found that BMAL1 haploinsufficiency led to deficits in cued fear learning and memory, while spatial memory and object recognition remained intact. Further analysis revealed dysregulated neurotransmitter levels and alterations in neurotransmitter-related proteins in the prefrontal cortex of BMAL1+/− mice. Pharmacological interventions targeting dopamine uptake or the 5-HT2C receptor demonstrated that inhibiting the 5-HT2C receptor could rescue fear learning and memory impairments in BMAL1+/− mice. Additionally, we observed downregulation of the inflammasome and neuroinflammation pathways in BMAL1+/− mice, which is validated by inflammation mediator lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration.

Conclusion

These findings highlight that BMAL1 haploinsufficiency leads to deficits in fear learning and memory, which are linked to alterations in neurotransmitters and receptors, particularly the 5-HT2C receptor. Targeting the 5-HT2C receptor may offer a potential therapeutic strategy for mitigating cognitive impairments associated with BMAL1 dysfunction.
Dual roles of methoprene-tolerant gene TaMet in male molting and female reproduction of the tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (meyrick)
Authors: Zhang Tingwei , Xu Kai , Liu Deqian , Ma Hang , Liu Wenbiao , Yang Wenjia
Published: November 2024

The tomato leafminer (Tuta absoluta) is a highly destructive global quarantine pest. The methoprene-tolerant (Met) protein, a member of the bHLH/PAS family of transcription factors, forms complexes with other family members to transduce the juvenile hormone signal, which regulates insect growth and development. However, the functions of the TaMet gene have rarely been studied in T. absoluta. Herein, we investigated the significance of TaMet in T. absoluta. Spatiotemporal expression analysis revealed that TaMet exhibited comparable expression patterns in males and females, with high expression levels during the early pupal and early adult stages. TaMet was predominantly expressed in the female ovary and male wing. TaMet knockdown impaired ovarian development in female adults, causing irregular arrangement and increased spacing of the egg epithelial cells in the ovary. Silencing TaMet also led to a 67.25% reduction in female spawning and a 67.21% decrease in the offspring hatching rate. Furthermore, the vitellogenin content was significantly diminished, and the expression levels of vitellogenin (Vg) and vitellogenin receptor (VgR) genes were significantly downregulated. In contrast, silencing TaMet in 3-day-old male pupae resulted in an 80% mortality rate and various phenotypic abnormalities, including body melanism, molting defects, and wing deformities. Moreover, the expression levels of wing development and chitin metabolism genes decreased significantly after knocking down TaMet. Our results indicate that TaMet plays a significant dual role in male molting and female reproduction of T. absoluta.