bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible Treatment Approaches of Sulfur Mustard-Induced Lung Disorders, Experimental and Clinical Evidence, an Updated Review
Authors: Khazdair Mohammad Reza , Boskabady Mohammad Hossein
Published: April 2022

Sulfur mustard (SM) is one of the major potent chemical warfare that caused the death of victims in World War I and the Iraq-Iran conflict (1980–1988). The respiratory system is the main target of SM exposure and there are no definitive therapeutic modalities for SM-induced lung injury. The effects of the new pharmaceutical drugs on lung injury induced by SM exposure were summarized in this review. Literature review on PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases was performed to find papers that reported new treatment approach on SM-exposure-induced injury in the respiratory system until October 2019. The search was restricted to sulfur mustard AND induced injury (in vitro studies, animal experiments, and clinical trials) AND respiratory system OR lung, AND treatment in all fields. Two hundred and eighty-three relevant articles were identified that 97 retrieved articles were eligible and were included in the review. Some new pharmaceutical drugs have shown therapeutic potential in controlling various characteristics of lung injury due to SM exposure. Recent studies showed therapeutic effects of mucolytic drugs, non-steroidal drugs, and antibiotics on reducing lung inflammation, oxidative stress responses, and modulating of the immune system as well as improving of respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function tests. Studies on the therapeutic effects of new agents with amelioration or treatment of SM-induced lung injury were reviewed and discussed.
Complement Levels at Admission Reflecting Progression to Severe Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Henry Brandon M. , Sinkovits György , Szergyuk Ivan , de Oliveira Maria Helena Santos , Lippi Giuseppe , Benoit Justin L. , Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Pode-Shakked Naomi , Benoit Stefanie W. , Cooper David S. , Müller Veronika , Iványi Zsolt , Gál János , Réti Marienn , Gopcsa László , Reményi Péter , Szathmáry Beáta , Lakatos Botond , Szlávik János , Bobek Ilona , Prohászka Zita Z. , Förhécz Zsolt , Csuka Dorottya , Hurler Lisa , Kajdácsi Erika , Cervenak László , Mező Blanka , Kiszel Petra , Masszi Tamás , Vályi-Nagy István , Prohászka Zoltán
Published: April 2022

Background

Dysregulation of complement system is thought to be a major player in development of multi-organ damage and adverse outcomes in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aimed to examine associations between complement system activity and development of severe acute kidney injury (AKI) among hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Materials and Methods

In this multicenter, international study, complement as well as inflammatory and thrombotic parameters were analyzed in COVID-19 patients requiring hospitalization at one US and two Hungarian centers. The primary endpoint was development of severe AKI defined by KDIGO stage 2+3 criteria, while the secondary endpoint was need for renal replacement therapy (RRT). Complement markers with significant associations with endpoints were then correlated with a panel of inflammatory and thrombotic biomarkers and assessed for independent association with outcome measures using logistic regression.

Results

A total of 131 hospitalized COVID-19 patients (median age 66 [IQR, 54–75] years; 54.2% males) were enrolled, 33 from the US, and 98 from Hungary. There was a greater prevalence of complement over-activation and consumption in those who developed severe AKI and need for RRT during hospitalization. C3a/C3 ratio was increased in groups developing severe AKI (3.29 vs. 1.71; p < 0.001) and requiring RRT (3.42 vs. 1.79; p < 0.001) in each cohort. Decrease in alternative and classical pathway activity, and consumption of C4 below reference range, as well as elevation of complement activation marker C3a above the normal was more common in patients progressing to severe AKI. In the Hungarian cohort, each standard deviation increase in C3a (SD = 210.1) was independently associated with 89.7% increased odds of developing severe AKI (95% CI, 7.6–234.5%). Complement was extensively correlated with an array of inflammatory biomarkers and a prothrombotic state.

Conclusion

Consumption and dysregulation of complement system is associated with development of severe AKI in COVID-19 patients and could represent a promising therapeutic target for reducing thrombotic microangiopathy in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Valve-Like Outflow System Behavior With Motion Slowing in Glaucoma Eyes: Findings Using a Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery–MIGS-Like Platform and Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging
Authors: Johnstone Murray , Xin Chen , Acott Ted , Vranka Janice , Wen Joanne , Martin Elizabeth , Wang Ruikang K.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate anatomic relationships and biomechanics of pressure-dependent trabecular meshwork and distal valve-like structure deformation in normal and glaucoma eyes using high-resolution optical coherence tomography (HR-OCT).

Methods

We controlled Schlemm’s canal (SC) pressure during imaging with HR-OCT in segments of three normal (NL) and five glaucomatous (GL) ex vivo eyes. The dissected limbal wedges were studied from 15 locations (5 NL and 10 GL). A minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)-like cannula was inserted into the SC lumen, whereas the other end was attached to a switch between two reservoirs, one at 0, the other at 30 mm Hg. A steady-state pressure of 30 mm Hg was maintained to dilate SC and collector channels (CC) during 3D volume imaging. The resulting 3D lumen surface relationships were correlated with internal structural features using an image mask that excluded tissues surrounding SC and CC. While imaging with HR-OCT, real-time motion responses in SC and CC areas were captured by switching pressure from 0 to 30 or 30 to 0 mm Hg. NL vs. GL motion differences were compared.

Results

Lumen surface and internal relationships were successfully imaged. We identified SC inlet and outlet valve-like structures. In NL and GL, the mean SC areas measured at the steady-state of 0 and 30 mm Hg were each significantly different (p < 0.0001). Synchronous changes in SC and CC lumen areas occurred in <200 ms. Measured SC area differences at the steady-state 0 and 30 mmHg, respectively, were larger in NL than GL eyes (p < 0.0001). The SC motion curves rose significantly more slowly in GL than NL (p < 0.001). Pressure waves traveled from the cannula end along the SC lumen to CC and deep intrascleral channels.

Conclusion

HR-OCT provided simultaneous measurements of outflow pathway lumen surfaces, internal structures, and biomechanics of real-time pressure-dependent dimension changes. We identified SC inlet and outlet valve-like structures. GL tissues underwent less motion and responded more slowly than NL, consistent with increased tissue stiffness. A MIGS-like shunt to SC permitted pulse waves to travel distally along SC lumen and into CC.
Tanshinone Capsules Combined With Prednisone for Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Fu Qiang , Huang Mengya , Tang Lei , Zheng Qi , Huang Fujun , Zhou Xun , Wang Shumei
Published: April 2022

Background

Facial seborrheic dermatitis (FSD), also called facial seborrheic eczema, is a common disease affecting both male and female patients worldwide. Tanshinone is the main bioactive component extracted from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, which is widely used in treating skin inflammatory diseases. It is necessary to evaluate the clinical evidence for tanshinone capsule treatment of FSD. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of tanshinone capsules combined with prednisone in the treatment of facial seborrheic dermatitis and to provide evidence for clinical practice.

Methods

Studies were searched in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Chinese Scientific Journal Database, and WanFang Database before October 2021. We also searched for randomized controlled clinical trials (RCT) of tanshinone capsules combined with prednisone on facial seborrheic dermatitis. The meta-analysis was conducted according to the guidelines of the Cochrane Handbook. Two reviewers regulated the research selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment, respectively, and a third reviewer was used for consulting when necessary. Review Manager Software 5.3 was used for meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 10 RCTs with 916 participants were included. Nine studies reported total effectiveness, five studies reported symptom score, seven studies reported adverse events, and four studies reported recurrence rate. The duration of treatment was 4 to 8 weeks. Combination therapy showed better clinical effects compared to the prednisone (OR: 5.82; 95% CI: 3.53, 9.59; p < 0.00001). Combination therapy could repair skin lesions (MD: −0.40; 95% CI: −0.51, −0.30; p < 0.00001), reduce skin erythema (MD: −0.58, 95% CI: −0.67, −0.49; p < 0.00001), relieve skin itch (MD: −0.70; 95% CI −0.77, −0.63; p < 0.00001), and desquamation score (MD: −0.64; 95% CI: −0.71, −0.56; p < 0.00001). Furthermore, combination therapy could reduce adverse events (OR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.84; p = 0.01) and control recurrence rate (OR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.13, 0.36; p < 0.00001).

Conclusions

Compared with prednisone, tanshinone capsules combined with prednisone may be effective in the treatment of facial seborrheic dermatitis. However, due to the high risk and ambiguity of bias in the included trials, the conclusion of this study must be interpreted carefully.
An Assessment of Physicians’ Recommendations for Colorectal Cancer Screening and International Guidelines Awareness and Adherence: Results From a Thai National Survey
Authors: Pausawasdi Nonthalee , Tongpong Pongkamon , Geeratragool Tanawat , Charatcharoenwitthaya Phunchai
Published: April 2022

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake is generally low in the Asia Pacific and physicians’ recommendations affect the screening participation.

Objective

The study aimed to assess Thai physicians’ recommendations for CRC screening, and the awareness of and adherence to international guidelines.

Methods

A survey containing questions assessing physicians’ demographic data, screening recommendations, and awareness of the international CRC screening guidelines assessed by clinical vignettes. Independent predictors of physicians’ recommendations for CRC screening were determined by logistic regression analysis.

Results

Five hundred and eighty-sixth of 1,286 (46%) physicians completed the survey, and 58% of them offered CRC screening. The majority of colorectal surgeons (91%) and gastroenterologists (86%) endorsed screening, whereas 35% of primary care physicians recommended screening. The patient’s age was the only factor influencing the physician’s decision to offer CRC screening (OR, 2.75: 95% CI, 1.61–4.67). Colonoscopy was the most recommended modality among specialists, whereas 60% of primary care physicians offered fecal occult blood tests (FOBTs). The guidelines awareness was noted in 81% of participants, with the highest rates among gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons. Gastroenterologists were more likely to adhere to the guidelines than surgeons, but both recommended shorter interval surveillance colonoscopy than guidelines recommendations in cases of small hyperplastic rectosigmoid polyps.

Conclusions

Recommendations for CRC screening and awareness of guidelines vary among different specialties. A low proportion of primary care physicians recommended screening and colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists recommended shorter intervals for surveillance of small hyperplastic polyp than suggested by guidelines.
SARS-CoV-2 Molecular Epidemiology Can Be Enhanced by Occupational Health: The Experience of Monitoring Variants of Concern in Workplaces in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Kuriyama Sergio N. , Farjun Bruna , Henriques-Santos Bianca Monteiro , Cabanelas Adriana , Abrantes Juliana Lourenço , Gesto João , Fidalgo-Neto Antonio A. , Souza Thiago Moreno L.
Published: April 2022

The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to extra caution in workplaces to avoid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In the occupational environment, SARS-CoV-2 testing is a powerful approach in providing valuable information to detect, monitor, and mitigate the spread of the virus and preserve productivity. Here a centralized Occupational Health Center provided molecular diagnosis and genomic sequences for companies and industries in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. From May to August 2021, around 20% of the SARS-CoV-2 positive nasopharyngeal swabs from routinely tested workers were sequenced and reproduced the replacement of Gamma with Delta variant observed in regular surveillance programs. Moreover, as a proof-of-concept on the sensibility of the occupational health genomic surveillance program described here, it was also found: i) the primo-identification of B.1.139 and A.2.5 viral genomes in Brazil and ii) an improved dating of Delta VoC evolution, by identifying earlier cases associated with AY-related genomes. We interpret that SARS-CoV-2 molecular testing of workers, independent of symptom presentation, provides an earlier opportunity to identify variants. Thus, considering the continuous monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 in workplaces, positive samples from occupation health programs should be regarded as essential to improve the knowledge on virus genetic diversity and VoC emergence.
Listeriosis in a Metropolitan Hospital: Is Targeted Therapy a Risk Factor for Infection?
Authors: Xing Fanfan , Lo Simon K. F. , Lau Susanna K. P. , Woo Patrick C. Y.
Published: April 2022

Targeted therapies are widely used for treatment of autoimmune diseases as well as solid organ and hematological malignancies. Various opportunistic infections have been described in patients on targeted therapies. Although case reports or a few case series of listeriosis have been reported to be associated with targeted therapy, most of the cases were related to anti-tumor necrosis factor-α monoclonal antibody. In this study, we describe the epidemiological and clinical profiles of listeriosis in a tertiary hospital in Shenzhen, a Southern Chinese metropolitan city in China. During the 9-year-and-6-month study period, a total of five cases of listeriosis were recorded and all of them had Listeria monocytogenes bacteremia. All five patients had predisposing factors, including corticosteroid (n = 3), targeted therapy (n = 2), pregnancy (n = 2) and anti-interferon gamma autoantibody (n = 1). The two patients who had targeted therapy during their course of cancer treatment received inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) pathway. The first one was a 52-year-old woman with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung. She was given gefitinib (EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor), osimertinib (third-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor) and afatinib (tyrosine kinase inhibitor that can bind to EGFR, HER2 and HER4). The second one was a 40-year-old woman with carcinoma of the breast with brain metastasis. She was given trastuzumab (anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody) and lapatinib (dual tyrosine kinase inhibitor of the EGFR/HER2 pathway). These two patients represent the second and third reports of listeria infections associated with EGFR/HER2 pathway inhibitors in the literature. Targeted therapy is an important predisposing factor for listeriosis. Listeria infection is an important differential diagnosis in patients on targeted therapy who present with sepsis and/or central nervous system infection, and the use of antibiotic regimens that cover listeria is crucial for empirical treatment. Avoidance of high-risk food items in these patients is important for the prevention of listeriosis.
Zoonotic Transmission of Campylobacter jejuni to Caretakers From Sick Pen Calves Carrying a Mixed Population of Strains With and Without Guillain Barré Syndrome-Associated Lipooligosaccharide Loci
Authors: St. Charles Jessica L. , Brooks Phillip T. , Bell Julia A. , Ahmed Husnain , Van Allen Mia , Manning Shannon D. , Mansfield Linda S.
Published: April 2022

Campylobacter jejuni causes foodborne gastroenteritis and may trigger acute autoimmune sequelae including Guillain Barré Syndrome. Onset of neuromuscular paralysis is associated with exposure to C. jejuni lipooligosaccharide (LOS) classes A, B, C, D, and E that mimic and evoke antibodies against gangliosides on myelin and axons of peripheral nerves. Family members managing a Michigan dairy operation reported recurring C. jejuni gastroenteritis. Because dairy cattle are known to shed C. jejuni, we hypothesized that calves in the sick pen were the source of human infections. Fecal samples obtained from twenty-five calves, one dog, and one asymptomatic family member were cultured for Campylobacter. C. jejuni isolates were obtained from thirteen calves and the family member: C. coli from two calves, and C. hyointestinalis from two calves. Some calves had diarrhea; most were clinically normal. Typing of lipooligosaccharide biosynthetic loci showed that eight calf C. jejuni isolates fell into classes A, B, and C. Two calf isolates and the human isolate possessed LOS class E, associated mainly with enteric disease and rarely with Guillain Barré Syndrome. Multi-locus sequence typing, porA and flaA typing, and whole genome comparisons of the thirteen C. jejuni isolates indicated that the three LOS class E strains that included the human isolate were closely related, indicating zoonotic transmission. Whole-genome comparisons revealed that isolates differed in virulence gene content, particularly in loci encoding biosynthesis of surface structures. Family members experienced diarrheal illness repeatedly over 2 years, yet none experienced GBS despite exposure to calves carrying invasive C. jejuni with LOS known to elicit antiganglioside autoantibodies.
Unraveling the Role of Acetic Acid Bacteria Comparing Two Acetification Profiles From Natural Raw Materials: A Quantitative Approach in Komagataeibacter europaeus
Authors: Román-Camacho Juan J. , Mauricio Juan C. , Santos-Dueñas Inés M. , García-Martínez Teresa , García-García Isidoro
Published: April 2022

The industrial production of vinegar is carried out by the activity of a complex microbiota of acetic acid bacteria (AAB) working, mainly, within bioreactors providing a quite specific and hard environment. The “omics” sciences can facilitate the identification and characterization analyses of these microbial communities, most of which are difficult to cultivate by traditional methods, outside their natural medium. In this work, two acetification profiles coming from the same AAB starter culture but using two natural raw materials of different alcoholic origins (fine wine and craft beer), were characterized and compared and the emphasis of this study is the effect of these raw materials. For this purpose, the composition and natural behavior of the microbiota present throughout these profiles were analyzed by metaproteomics focusing, mainly, on the quantitative protein profile of Komagataeibacter europaeus. This species provided a protein fraction significantly higher (73.5%) than the others. A submerged culture system and semi-continuous operating mode were employed for the acetification profiles and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for the protein analyses. The results showed that neither of two raw materials barely modified the microbiota composition of the profiles, however, they had an effect on the protein expression changes in different biological process. A molecular strategy in which K. europaeus would prevail over other species by taking advantage of the different features offered by each raw material has been suggested. First, by assimilating the excess of inner acetic acid through the TCA cycle and supplying biosynthetic precursors to replenish the cellular material losses; second, by a previous assimilation of the excess of available glucose, mainly in the beer medium, through the glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP); and third, by triggering membrane mechanisms dependent on proton motive force to detoxify the cell at the final moments of acetification. This study could complement the current knowledge of these bacteria as well as to expand the use of diverse raw materials and optimize operating conditions to obtain quality vinegars.

Clinical Trial Registration:

[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [PXD031147].
Effects of Different Formulations of Glyphosate on Rumen Microbial Metabolism and Bacterial Community Composition in the Rumen Simulation Technique System
Authors: Brede Melanie , Haange Sven-Bastiaan , Riede Susanne , Engelmann Beatrice , Jehmlich Nico , Rolle-Kampzczyk Ulrike , Rohn Karl , von Soosten Dirk , von Bergen Martin , Breves Gerhard
Published: April 2022

The use of the herbicide glyphosate and its formulations on protein-rich feedstuff for cattle leads to a considerable intake of glyphosate into the rumen of the animals, where glyphosate may potentially impair the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate pathway of the commensal microbiota, which could cause dysbiosis or proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. Here, we evaluated the effects of pure glyphosate and the formulations Durano TF and Roundup® LB plus in different concentrations on the fermentation pattern, community composition and metabolic activity of the rumen microbiota using the Rumen Simulation Technique (RUSITEC). Application of the compounds in three concentrations (0.1 mg/l, 1.0 mg/l or 10 mg/l, n = 4 each) for 9 days did not affect fermentation parameters such as pH, redox potential, NH3-N concentration and production of short-chain fatty acids compared to a control group. Microbial protein synthesis and the degradation of different feed fractions did not vary among the treatments. None of the used compounds or concentrations did affect the microbial diversity or abundance of microbial taxa. Metaproteomics revealed that the present metabolic pathways including the shikimate pathway were not affected by addition of glyphosate, Durano TF or Roundup® LB plus. In conclusion, neither pure glyphosate, nor its formulations Durano TF and Roundup® LB plus did affect the bacterial communities of the rumen.
Lobophorin Producing Endophytic Streptomyces olivaceus JB1 Associated With Maesa japonica (Thunb.) Moritzi & Zoll.
Authors: Um Soohyun , Lee Jaeyoun , Kim Seung Hyun
Published: April 2022

In this study, we focused on endophytes of Maesa japonica (Thunb.) Moritzi & Zoll. and the plant-microbe interaction at metabolite levels. We isolated seven endophytes associated with M. japonica (JB1−7), and focused on Streptomyces olivaceus JB1 because of antibacterial activities of its secondary metabolites. We confirmed lobophorin analogs production from the bacterial strain JB1 by using spectroscopic techniques such as NMR, UV, and LC/Q-TOF-MS. In the LC/MS system, thirteen reported lobophorin analogs and twelve unreported analogs were detected. Among metabolites, lobophorin A was clearly detected in the dried foliar residues of M. japonica which implies that JB1 resides in the host and accumulates its secondary metabolites likely interacting with the plant. Antimicrobial activity tests of the secondary metabolites against undesirable contaminants isolated from the external surface of M. japonica supported the host and microbe mutualistic relationship. In the meantime, lobophorin producing Streptomyces spp. were isolated from marine environments such as marine sediments, algae, corals, and sponges. As lobophorin producing Streptomyces is isolated commonly from marine environments, we conducted a saline water stress tolerance test with JB1 showing saline medium does not accelerate the growth of the bacterium.
A Novel Immunochromatographic Strip Based on Latex Microspheres for the Rapid Detection of North American-Type Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus
Authors: Li Wansheng , Li Minhua , Zhang Hongliang , Li Chao , Xu Hu , Gong Bangjun , Fu Jun , Guo Zhenyang , Peng Jinmei , Zhou Guohui , Tian Zhijun , Wang Qian
Published: April 2022

A latex microsphere-based immunochromatographic strip (ICS) test was successfully developed for the rapid and sensitive detection of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). The PRRSV N protein-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) 1H4 labeled with latex microspheres was dispensed on a conjugate pad for use as the detector. The same mAb and goat anti-mouse antibody were blotted on a nitrocellulose membrane to generate test and control lines, respectively. The limit of virus detection was approximately 5 × 102.0 median tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50)/ml, and the limit of N protein detection was approximately 15 ng/ml. Other common porcine viruses were tested to evaluate the specificity of the ICS, and positive results were observed for only North American-type PRRSV. A comparison of the strip with a standard diagnostic test (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, RT-PCR) was also performed, and the results showed that the ICS test exhibited relatively high specificity and sensitivity (90.32 and 73.91%, respectively) and relatively high positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV; 85 and 82.35%, respectively). These results suggest that the ICS test can be used to rapidly and accurately detect PRRSV and can be suitable for diagnostic applications in the field.
Identification of the Phosphorus-Solubilizing Bacteria Strain JP233 and Its Effects on Soil Phosphorus Leaching Loss and Crop Growth
Authors: Yu Haiyang , Wu Xiaoqing , Zhang Guangzhi , Zhou Fangyuan , Harvey Paul R. , Wang Leilei , Fan Susu , Xie Xueying , Li Feng , Zhou Hongzi , Zhao Xiaoyan , Zhang Xinjian
Published: April 2022

Phosphorus (P) is one of the most limiting nutrients in global agricultural ecosystems, and phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) can convert insoluble P into soluble P, thereby improving the absorption and use of soil P by plants. Increasing leaching loss of soil P due to PSB that could lead to water eutrophication is a major concern, although no direct experimental evidence is available to evaluate these effects. In this study, a highly efficient PSB strain, Pseudomonas sp. JP233, was isolated from soil and its P-solubilizing agent was identified by metabolomics and HPLC analyses. The effects of JP233 on P contents in soil leachates were also analyzed by microcosm leaching experiments in the absence and presence of maize. JP233 could solubilize insoluble P into soluble forms, and the molybdate reactive phosphorus (MRP) content reached 258.07 mg/L in NBRIP medium containing 5 g/L Ca3(PO4)2 within 48 h. Metabolomics analysis demonstrated that the organic acid involved in JP233 P solubilization was primarily 2-keto gluconic acid (2KGA). Further, HPLC analysis revealed that 2KGA contents rapidly accumulated to 19.33 mg/mL within 48 h. Microcosm leaching experiments showed that MRP and total phosphorus (TP) contents in soil leaching solutions were not significantly higher after JP233 inoculation. However, inoculation with JP233 into maize plant soils significantly decreased MRP and TP contents in the soil leaching solutions on days 14 (P < 0.01), 21 (P < 0.01), and 28 (P < 0.05). Inoculation with strain JP233 also significantly increased the biomass of maize aerial components and that of whole plants (P < 0.05). Thus, strain JP233 exhibited a significant plant-growth-promoting effect on maize development. In conclusion, the application of PSB into soils does not significantly increase P leachate loss. Rather, the application of PSB can help reduce P leachate loss, while significantly promoting plant absorption and use of soil P.
Autotrophic Fe-Driven Biological Nitrogen Removal Technologies for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Pang Suyan , Li Ning , Luo Huan , Luo Xiaonan , Shen Tong , Yang Yanan , Jiang Jin
Published: April 2022

Fe-driven biological nitrogen removal (FeBNR) has become one of the main technologies in water pollution remediation due to its economy, safety and mild reaction conditions. This paper systematically summarizes abiotic and biotic reactions in the Fe and N cycles, including nitrate/nitrite-dependent anaerobic Fe(II) oxidation (NDAFO) and anaerobic ammonium oxidation coupled with Fe(III) reduction (Feammox). The biodiversity of iron-oxidizing microorganisms for nitrate/nitrite reduction and iron-reducing microorganisms for ammonium oxidation are reviewed. The effects of environmental factors, e.g., pH, redox potential, Fe species, extracellular electron shuttles and natural organic matter, on the FeBNR reaction rate are analyzed. Current application advances in natural and artificial wastewater treatment are introduced with some typical experimental and application cases. Autotrophic FeBNR can treat low-C/N wastewater and greatly benefit the sustainable development of environmentally friendly biotechnologies for advanced nitrogen control.
The Gut Microbiota: Master of Puppets Connecting the Epidemiology of Infectious, Autoimmune, and Metabolic Disease
Authors: Larsen Olaf F. A. , van der Grint Maike , Wiegers Cato , van de Burgwal Linda H. M.
Published: April 2022

Infectious, autoimmune, and metabolic diseases put an enormous pressure on both quality of life and the economy. For all three disease types, it is known that the quality of the gut microbiota composition is correlated to both onset and progression of disease. Hence, maintaining eubiosis and preventing gradual irreversible loss of beneficial microbes within the gut microbial ecosystem is of utmost importance. As such, the epidemiological trends of these disease types may serve as proxies for the integrity of the human gut microbiota. Here, we present incidence data covering the last decades for prototypical infectious diseases (tuberculosis and measles), autoimmune disorders (type-1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis), and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Our findings reveal that vaccination efforts correlate with relatively low levels of archetypal infectious disease incidence. However, autoimmune and metabolic disorders are, together with the usage of antibiotics, steeply on the rise. These findings suggest that the status of the gut microbiota is persistently deteriorating, as reflected by the proxies. As such, the epidemiological trends shown here may serve as a starting point for a mechanistic understanding of the interplay between these different disease types that can be used for future prevention and mitigation strategies like targeted stimulation and suppletion of microorganisms by means of, e.g., fermented foods, prebiotics and probiotics.
New Insights Into Microbial Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Li Zhimin , Li Tianxiao
Published: April 2022

Saccharomyces cerevisiae plays an important role in the mineralization of many metal ions, but it is unclear whether this fungus is involved in the mineralization of calcium carbonate. In this study, S. cerevisiae was cultured under various conditions to explore its ability to perform microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP). Organic acids, yeast extract, and low-carbon conditions were the factors influencing the biomineralization of calcium carbonate caused by S. cerevisiae, and biomolecules secreted by the fungus under different conditions could change the morphology, size, and crystal form of the biosynthesized mineral. In addition, transcriptome analysis showed that the oxidation of organic acids enhanced the respiration process of yeast. This implied that S. cerevisiae played a role in the formation of calcium carbonate through the mechanism of creating an alkaline environment by the respiratory metabolism of organic acids, which could provide sufficient dissolved inorganic carbon for calcium carbonate formation. These results provide new insights into the role of S. cerevisiae in biomineralization and extend the potential applications of this fungus in the future.
Generalized Structural Kinetic Modeling: A Survey and Guide
Authors: Massing Jana C. , Gross Thilo
Published: April 2022

Many current challenges involve understanding the complex dynamical interplay between the constituents of systems. Typically, the number of such constituents is high, but only limited data sources on them are available. Conventional dynamical models of complex systems are rarely mathematically tractable and their numerical exploration suffers both from computational and data limitations. Here we review generalized modeling, an alternative approach for formulating dynamical models to gain insights into dynamics and bifurcations of uncertain systems. We argue that this approach deals elegantly with the uncertainties that exist in real world data and enables analytical insight or highly efficient numerical investigation. We provide a survey of recent successes of generalized modeling and a guide to the application of this modeling approach in future studies such as complex integrative ecological models.
Molecular Insights and Prognosis Associated With RBM8A in Glioblastoma
Authors: Wei Lei , Zou Chun , Chen Liechun , Lin Yan , Liang Lucong , Hu Beiquan , Mao Yingwei , Zou Donghua
Published: April 2022

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most invasive brain tumors, and it is associated with high rates of recurrence and mortality. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of RBM8A in GBM and the potential influence of its expression on the disease.

Methods: Levels of RBM8A mRNA in GBM patients and controls were examined in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), GSE16011 and GSE90604 databases. GBM samples in TCGA were divided into RBM8Ahigh and RBM8Alow groups. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between GBM patients and controls were identified, as were DEGs between RBM8Ahigh and RBM8Alow groups. DEGs common to both of these comparisons were analyzed for coexpression and regression analyses. In addition, we identified potential effects of RBM8A on competing endogenous RNAs, immune cell infiltration, methylation modifications, and somatic mutations.

Results: RBM8A is expressed at significantly higher levels in GBM than control samples, and its level correlates with tumor purity. We identified a total of 488 mRNAs that differed between GBM and controls as well as between RBM8Ahigh and RBM8Alow groups, which enrichment analysis revealed to be associated mainly with neuroblast proliferation, and T cell immune responses. We identified 174 mRNAs that gave areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve >0.7 among coexpression module genes, of which 13 were significantly associated with overall survival of GBM patients. We integrated 11 candidate mRNAs through LASSO algorithm, then nomogram, risk score, and decision curve analyses were analyzed. We found that RBM8A may compete with DLEU1 for binding to miR-128-1-5p, and aberrant RBM8A expression was associations with tumor infiltration by immune cells. Some mRNAs associated with GBM prognosis also appear to be methylated or mutated.

Conclusions: Our study strongly links RBM8A expression to GBM pathobiology and patient prognosis. The candidate mRNAs identified here may lead to therapeutic targets against the disease.
Practical Protocols for Efficient Sampling of Kinase-Inhibitor Binding Pathways Using Two-Dimensional Replica-Exchange Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Shinobu Ai , Re Suyong , Sugita Yuji
Published: April 2022

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are increasingly used to study various biological processes such as protein folding, conformational changes, and ligand binding. These processes generally involve slow dynamics that occur on the millisecond or longer timescale, which are difficult to simulate by conventional atomistic MD. Recently, we applied a two-dimensional (2D) replica-exchange MD (REMD) method, which combines the generalized replica exchange with solute tempering (gREST) with the replica-exchange umbrella sampling (REUS) in kinase-inhibitor binding simulations, and successfully observed multiple ligand binding/unbinding events. To efficiently apply the gREST/REUS method to other kinase-inhibitor systems, we establish modified, practical protocols with non-trivial simulation parameter tuning. The current gREST/REUS simulation protocols are tested for three kinase-inhibitor systems: c-Src kinase with PP1, c-Src kinase with Dasatinib, and c-Abl kinase with Imatinib. We optimized the definition of kinase-ligand distance as a collective variable (CV), the solute temperatures in gREST, and replica distributions and umbrella forces in the REUS simulations. Also, the initial structures of each replica in the 2D replica space were prepared carefully by pulling each ligand from and toward the protein binding sites for keeping stable kinase conformations. These optimizations were carried out individually in multiple short MD simulations. The current gREST/REUS simulation protocol ensures good random walks in 2D replica spaces, which are required for enhanced sampling of inhibitor dynamics around a target kinase.
Dopaminergic Modulation of Local Non-oscillatory Activity and Global-Network Properties in Parkinson’s Disease: An EEG Study
Authors: Zhang Juanli , Villringer Arno , Nikulin Vadim V.
Published: April 2022

Dopaminergic medication for Parkinson’s disease (PD) modulates neuronal oscillations and functional connectivity (FC) across the basal ganglia-thalamic-cortical circuit. However, the non-oscillatory component of the neuronal activity, potentially indicating a state of excitation/inhibition balance, has not yet been investigated and previous studies have shown inconsistent changes of cortico-cortical connectivity as a response to dopaminergic medication. To further elucidate changes of regional non-oscillatory component of the neuronal power spectra, FC, and to determine which aspects of network organization obtained with graph theory respond to dopaminergic medication, we analyzed a resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) dataset including 15 PD patients during OFF and ON medication conditions. We found that the spectral slope, typically used to quantify the broadband non-oscillatory component of power spectra, steepened particularly in the left central region in the ON compared to OFF condition. In addition, using lagged coherence as a FC measure, we found that the FC in the beta frequency range between centro-parietal and frontal regions was enhanced in the ON compared to the OFF condition. After applying graph theory analysis, we observed that at the lower level of topology the node degree was increased, particularly in the centro-parietal area. Yet, results showed no significant difference in global topological organization between the two conditions: either in global efficiency or clustering coefficient for measuring global and local integration, respectively. Interestingly, we found a close association between local/global spectral slope and functional network global efficiency in the OFF condition, suggesting a crucial role of local non-oscillatory dynamics in forming the functional global integration which characterizes PD. These results provide further evidence and a more complete picture for the engagement of multiple cortical regions at various levels in response to dopaminergic medication in PD.
The Role of Extracellular Matrix Components in the Spreading of Pathological Protein Aggregates
Authors: Moretto Edoardo , Stuart Skye , Surana Sunaina , Vargas Jose Norberto S. , Schiavo Giampietro
Published: April 2022

Several neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the accumulation of aggregated misfolded proteins. These pathological agents have been suggested to propagate in the brain via mechanisms similar to that observed for the prion protein, where a misfolded variant is transferred from an affected brain region to a healthy one, thereby inducing the misfolding and/or aggregation of correctly folded copies. This process has been characterized for several proteins, such as α-synuclein, tau, amyloid beta (Aβ) and less extensively for huntingtin and TDP-43. α-synuclein, tau, TDP-43 and huntingtin are intracellular proteins, and their aggregates are located in the cytosol or nucleus of neurons. They have been shown to spread between cells and this event occurs, at least partially, via secretion of these protein aggregates in the extracellular space followed by re-uptake. Conversely, Aβ aggregates are found mainly extracellularly, and their spreading occurs in the extracellular space between brain regions. Due to the inherent nature of their spreading modalities, these proteins are exposed to components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), including glycans, proteases and core matrix proteins. These ECM components can interact with or process pathological misfolded proteins, potentially changing their properties and thus regulating their spreading capabilities. Here, we present an overview of the documented roles of ECM components in the spreading of pathological protein aggregates in neurodegenerative diseases with the objective of identifying the current gaps in knowledge and stimulating further research in the field. This could potentially lead to the identification of druggable targets to slow down the spreading and/or progression of these pathologies.
Effect of Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage on Outcome After Endovascular Treatment in Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion
Authors: Zhang Hao , Dai Weipeng , Kong Weilin , Duan Zhenhui , Yun Zongjin , Zhou Sheng , Yang Jie , Li Fengli , Zi Wenjie , Guo Zhangbao , Liu Wenhua
Published: April 2022

Background and Purpose

Gastrointestinal hemorrhage (GIH) is associated with a poorer prognosis and a higher mortality rate after acute ischemic stroke (AIS), but its association with outcomes after endovascular treatment (EVT) remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the incidence, risk factors, and relationships among clinical outcomes of GIH after EVT in patients with acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO).

Methods

Consecutive patients treated with EVT were identified from the EVT for Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion Study (BASILAR) registry. All enrolled patients were divided into GIH and non-GIH subgroups, and the independent predictors of GIH after EVT were explored. An ordinal logistic regression model was used to assess the association between GIH and primary outcome [distribution of modified Rankin scale (mRS)] at 90 days, while binary logistic regression models for other outcomes were also employed.

Results

Among 647 patients with acute BAO, 114 (17.6%) patients experienced GIH after EVT. Higher glucose levels at admission, longer procedure time, and general anesthesia were the independent predictors of GIH after EVT, while protective factors include the posterior circulation-Acute Stroke Prognosis Early Computed Tomography Score (pc-ASPECTS) ≥ 5 and a history of hyperlipidemia. Compared with the non-GIH group, the GIH group was associated with a worse functional outcome [adjusted common odds ratio (OR), 2.12 (95% CI, 1.39–3.25)], lower rates of functional independence [adjusted OR,.47 (95% CI, 0.26–0.88)], a favorable outcome [adjusted OR, 0.41 (95% CI, 0.22–0.73)], and a higher risk of 90-day mortality [adjusted OR, 1.76 (95% CI, 1.08–2.85)].

Conclusion

This study concluded that GIH is not uncommon after EVT in patients with acute BAO and is associated with worse functional disability and higher mortality.
Non-contrast MRI of Inner Ear Detected Differences of Endolymphatic Drainage System Between Vestibular Migraine and Unilateral Ménière's Disease
Authors: Leng Yangming , Lei Ping , Chen Cen , Liu Yingzhao , Xia Kaijun , Liu Bo
Published: April 2022

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of some anatomical variables with regard to endolymphatic sac (ES) and duct (ED), measured by non-contrast three-dimensional sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolutions (3D-SPACE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in differentiating vestibular migraine (VM) from unilateral Ménière's disease (MD).

Methods

In this study, 81 patients with VM, 97 patients with unilateral MD, and 50 control subjects were enrolled. The MRI-visualized parameters, such as the distance between the vertical part of the posterior semicircular canal and the posterior fossa (MRI-PP distance) and visibility of vestibular aqueduct (MRI-VA), were measured bilaterally. The diagnostic value of the MRI-PP distance and MRI-VA visibility for differentiating VM from unilateral MD was examined.

Results

(1) Compared with the VM patients, patients with unilateral MD exhibited shorter MRI-PP distance and poorer MRI-VA visibility. No differences in the MRI-PP distance and MRI-VA visibility were detected between patients with VM and control subjects. (2) No significant interaural difference in the MRI-PP distance and MRI-VA visibility was observed in patients with VM and those with unilateral MD, respectively. (3) Area under the curve (AUC) showed a low diagnostic value for the MRI-PP distance and MRI-VA visibility, respectively, in differentiating between the VM and unilateral MD.

Conclusions

Based on non-enhanced MRI-visualized measurement, anatomical variables with regard to the endolymphatic drainage system differed significantly between the patients with VM and those with unilateral MD. Further investigations are needed to improve the diagnostic value of these indices in differentiating VM from unilateral MD.
Extracranial Vertebral Artery-Internal Jugular Vein-Spinal Vein Fistula in Neurofibromatosis Type I: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chen Jiarui , Liang Tuo , Cen Jiemei , Jiang Jie , Chen Tianyou , Li Hao , Liu Chong , Chen Jing , Zhan Xinli
Published: April 2022

Background

A cervical arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in neurofibromatosis type I (NF-1) is uncommon, and it brings challenges and difficulty in treatment.

Case Presentation

A 39-year-old woman was diagnosed with an NF-1-associated spontaneous vertebral artery-internal jugular vein-spinal vein fistula. The fistula was placed by coil embolization. Postoperative examination showed that the fistula closure was satisfied, and the patient's abnormal clinical manifestation disappeared without any complications after 24 months of interventional embolization. As per the literature, interventional embolization is currently the main treatment method, and it has the distinguishing features of less trauma, quick recovery, and a good prognosis.

Conclusion

NF-1 associated with a spontaneous arteriovenous fistula is rare in clinical practice, which carries significant challenges in treatment, but can be effectively treated using endovascular embolism. Endovascular embolism could be the potential choice of treatment in NF-1 associated with AVF.