bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of efficacy of different botulinum toxin A concentrations in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia assessed by dermoscopy
Authors: Seoudy Wael Mohamed , Metwally Omnia Ahmed , Elfangary Mona Mohamed , Mohamed Tamer Mohsen
Published: September 2023

Background

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of progressive hair loss in men and women. AGA is characterized by the miniaturization of the hair follicle, leading to the transformation of terminal hair to vellus hair.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of injecting two different concentrations of botulinum toxin A (BTA) for the treatment of AGA in Egyptian patients.

Methods

Adult male (Hamilton–Norwood I–VII) and female (Ludwig I–III) patients (N = 32) were assigned to receive two different concentrations BTA (33.3 and 25 U/mL) on each side of the scalp; in total, there were 15 injections administered on each side, with injection volume of 0.1 mL containing 3.3 U for the right half and 2.5 U for the left half. Treatment efficiency was assessed at baseline, Month 3 and Month 6, by degree of clinical improvement and dermoscopy assessment.

Results

By Month 6, proportion of male patients (N = 5) classified as Hamilton–Norwood Grade II increased from 0% to 60% (3/5), proportion of female patients (N = 27) classified as Ludwig Grade I also increased from 14.8% (4/27) to 70% (19/27). Dermoscopy result showed a significant increase in vellus hair density from baseline to Month 6 on the right side (33.3 U/mL), while no change was observed on the left (25 U/mL); however, vellus hair density was higher at Month 3 compared to Month 6. There were changes in yellow spots and peripilar sign more on the right side. Adverse reactions reported include irritation, headache, injections site pain, and nausea.

Conclusion

The results of the present study showed that BTA is a safe and effective treatment for AGA in both genders. These findings offer a cutting‐edge conceptual structure and therapeutic strategy for the management of AGA in Egyptian population.
Phonology of proper names
Authors: Tanaka Yu
Published: August 2023

Linguistic research on proper names has mostly focused on their semantic and syntactic aspects, with relatively little attention being paid to their phonology. This article provides an exploratory overview of issues surrounding the sound patterns of proper names. Some studies argue that names in general tend to resist alternations due to name‐specific faithfulness, and that complex names can behave like simplex words due to a lack of compositionality, while others point to data that may challenge those views. There is also a body of work that examines the sounds of names in the context of cognitive psychology. By reviewing the relevant literature, this article aims to pave the way for further research in name phonology.
ETV5 facilitates tumor progression in head‐neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yu Shijin , Ma Zongjun , Chen Tao , Wang Hong , Yao Qin , Li Jin , Cheng Jie
Published: August 2023

Objective

E26 transformation‐specific (ETS) factors have emerged as key mediators underlying human tumorigenesis. Here, we sought to characterize the expression pattern, biological roles, and clinical significance of ETS Variant Transcription Factor 5 (ETV5) in head neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Subjects and Methods

ETV5 expression pattern in HNSCC was determined by bioinformatics interrogations and immunohistochemical staining in primary samples. The associations between its abundance with clinicopathological parameters, and patient survival were evaluated. Colony formation, CCK‐8, flow cytometry, wound healing, and Transwell invasion assays, as well as xenograft models, were utilized to determine the phenotypic changes after ETV5 silencing in vitro and vivo. The potential binding of ETV5 in the Slug promoter was determined by ChIP‐qPCR.

Results

ETV5 was significantly overexpressed in HNSCC samples. Its overexpression is significantly associated with aggressiveness features and reduced survival. ETV5 knockdown significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and induced apoptosis in vitro, and impaired tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, ETV5‐activated Slug transcription by binding its promoter region in HNSCC cells. Patients with ETV5highSlughigh had the worst survival across multiple HNSCC cohorts.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal that ETV5 serves as a novel prognostic biomarker and putative oncogene for HNSCC progression likely by activating Slug transcription.
Timing of reproduction underlies fitness tradeoffs for a salmonid fish
Authors: Baldock Jeffrey R. , Al‐Chokhachy Robert K. , Campbell Matthew R. , Walters Annika
Published: September 2023

Life history diversity is generated and maintained in part by density‐dependent fitness tradeoffs that inhibit a single trait value from reaching fixation. While central to our understanding of evolution, demonstrating density dependence in the strength of fitness tradeoffs is difficult in natural systems. The timing of reproduction is a key life history trait that determines access to breeding habitat and exposure of offspring to competitive interactions and environmental conditions. Understanding the processes underlying diversity in reproductive timing will aid efforts to increase adaptive capacity under global environmental change. Here, we used detailed field studies, genetic parentage assignment, and simulation modeling to evaluate the fitness tradeoffs associated with the timing of reproduction for Yellowstone cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri in groundwater‐dominated tributaries to the upper Snake River, Wyoming, USA. We conducted our study across two years to understand how the strength of tradeoffs changes with population density. We found that early breeders experienced reduced reproductive success relative to later breeders due to the negative impact of nest superimposition (where later breeders construct nests overlapping those constructed previously) on embryo survival. However, as the risk of superimposition declined in the low‐density year and early breeders experienced fewer losses, reproductive success became more similar among individuals breeding at different times. Further, in the spring following the critical period for growth and survival, offspring of early breeders had experienced longer growing seasons, attained larger body sizes, and were equally abundant relative to those of later breeders, suggesting that fitness losses due to superimposition may be offset by size‐dependent competitive ability and overwinter survival. Our results illustrate a mechanism underlying diversity in the timing of reproduction for salmonids. This type of life history diversity will help to ensure the resilience and stability of salmonid populations attempting to adapt to changing local stressors associated with global climate change.
Correlation between the Coaptation and Regeneration of Tendon Stumps in Endoscopic Assisted Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair
Authors: Wu Helin , Dong Jingxian , Dong Dandan , Wei Shijun , Zheng Boyu , Kong Changwang , Xu Feng , Hou Wenguang
Published: August 2023

Objective

When the endoscopic Achilles tendon repair technique is utilized, direct stitching of the ruptured site is challenging due to the frayed tendon stumps. To explore whether undesirable coaptation of the tendon stumps influences the generation of the tendons.

Methods

This study is a retrospective analysis of 46 patients who underwent a modified endoscopic Achilles tendon rupture repair from October 2018 to June 2020. Patients were divided into two groups according to the coaptation of tendon stumps on postoperative ultrasonography. Group 1 included 17 cases with undesirable coaptation (<50%), and Group 2 included 29 cases with appropriate coaptation (≥50%). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was obtained postoperatively at 3, 6, and 12 months to evaluate the tendon morphological construction. Clinical evaluations were performed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle‐hind foot score, the Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS), muscle power, and the Achilles tendon resting angle at the final follow‐up. Complications were also encountered. The Student's t‐test and the Mann–Whitney U‐test were used to assess differences among both groups.

Results

The mean follow‐up time was 37.5 ± 10.6 months in Group 1 and 39.0 ± 11.6 months in Group 2, respectively. The average age in Group 1 is slightly older than in Group 2 (37.3 ± 6.1 vs. 32.7 ± 6.3, p = 0.021). The tendon cross‐section areas and thickness increased initially and decreased later on postoperative MRI evaluation. It also showed a significantly higher signal/noise quotient (SNQ) in Group 1 at postoperative 3 months. At postoperative 6 and 12 months, the SNQ between both groups was similar. The AOFAS score (95.9 ± 5.1 vs. 96.2 ± 4.9, p = 0.832), ATRS score (97.0 ± 3.6 vs. 97.7 ± 3.3, p = 0.527), and muscle power (21.38 vs. 24.74, p = 0.287) were not significantly different between both groups. However, the resting angle of Group 1 was significantly larger than that of Group 2 (4.6 ± 2.4 vs. 2.4 ± 2.3, p = 0.004). There was no difference in the complications (p = 0.628).

Conclusion

Although complete regeneration can be finally achieved, the early stage of tendon stump regeneration can be prolonged due to undesirable coaptation when endoscopic Achilles tendon repair technique is applied. The prolonged high signal duration on MRI indicates the less‐than‐ideal regeneration of the tendon, which might lead to elongation of the tendon.
Self‐efficacy, prosocial impact, and self‐legitimacy as psychological predictors of judicial officer performance
Authors: Hamm Joseph A. , Ropp John W. , Witwer Amanda , Scott Brent A.
Published: September 2023

The current work explores three potential facilitators of judicial performance. Participants in a state‐wide survey of judicial officers (response rate = 33.9 percent) completed self‐report measures of self‐efficacy, prosocial impact, and self‐legitimacy as well as subjectively perceived performance. Objective performance data collected by the state court administrative office were then merged with the survey data. Latent variable analysis confirmed the three predictor constructs' separability, and although all four concepts were correlated, self‐efficacy was the sole independent predictor of subjective performance. An unplanned mediation analysis suggested significant indirect effects of self‐legitimacy and prosocial impact on subjectively assessed performance through self‐efficacy. Regarding objective performance, self‐efficacy emerged as the only significant correlate or predictor. The research therefore empirically demonstrates the empirical distinctiveness of self‐efficacy, prosocial impact, and self‐legitimacy and provides some exploratory support for a causal model whereby self‐efficacy provides the proximal impact on performance but is itself facilitated by prosocial impact and self‐legitimacy.
Dyspnoea relief as an inherent benefit of high flow nasal cannula therapy: A laboratory randomized trial in healthy humans
Authors: Bianquis Clara , Rolland‐Debord Camille , Rivals Isabelle , Similowski Thomas , Morélot‐Panzini Capucine
Published: September 2023

Background and Objective

Persistent dyspnoea is a public health issue for which the therapeutic arsenal is limited. This study tested high‐flow nasal cannula therapy (HFNT) as a means to alleviate experimental dyspnoea.

Methods

Thirty‐two healthy subjects underwent an experimental dyspnoea induced by thoracoabdominal elastic loading. HFNT was administered with alternately FiO2 of 100% (HFNT100) or 21% (HFNT21). The sensory (S‐VAS) and affective (A‐VAS) components of dyspnoea, transcutaneous CO2 pressure (PtcCO2), pulse‐oximetry oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate, respiratory rate and skin galvanometry were monitored continuously. Three experimental sessions of 8 min were conducted: the first session consisted in familiarization with the experimental dyspnoea and the next two sessions tested the effects of HFNT100 and HFNT21 alternatively in a randomized order.

Results

HFNT21 and HFNT100 significantly reduced dyspnoea, respectively of ∆A‐VAS = 0.80 cm [−0.02–1.5]; p = 0.007 and ∆A‐VAS = 1.00 cm [0.08–1.75]; p < 0.0001; ∆S‐VAS = 0.70 cm [−0.15–1.98]), p < 0.0001 and ∆S‐VAS = 0.70 cm [0.08–1.95]), p = 0.0002) with no significant difference between HFNT21 and HFNT100. HFNT did not significantly alter the respiratory rate or the heart rate, reduced PtcCO2 only on room air and GSR under both experimental conditions.

Conclusion

HFNT was associated with a statistically significant reduction in the intensity of the sensory and affective components of dyspnoea, independent of oxygen addition. This relief of laboratory dyspnoea could result from a reduction of afferent‐reafferent mismatch.
Making “fast friends” online in middle childhood and early adolescence
Authors: Swerbenski Katherine L. , Barnett Kierin C. , Devine Patricia G. , Shutts Kristin
Published: September 2023

Close peer relationships are critical to children's and adolescents’ healthy development and well‐being, yet youth sometimes struggle to make friends. The present work tested whether an online version of the Fast Friends procedure could engender closeness among 9‐ to 13‐year‐old youth. Participant dyads (N = 131), matched in age and gender, were randomly assigned to answer personal questions that encourage self‐disclosure and play a collaborative game (Fast Friends condition) or to engage in similar activities without self‐disclosure or collaboration (control condition). Fast Friends dyads reported feeling closer and expressed more interest in future contact than control dyads. The discussion addresses potential future uses and implications of an online Fast Friends procedure.
Co‐chaperone BAG3 enters autophagic pathway via its interaction with microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta
Authors: Körschgen Hagen , Baeken Marius , Schmitt Daniel , Nagel Heike , Behl Christian
Published: September 2023

The co‐chaperone BAG3 is a hub for a variety of cellular pathways via its multiple domains and its interaction with chaperones of the HSP70 family or small HSPs. During aging and under cellular stress conditions in particular, BAG3, together with molecular chaperones, ensures the sequestration of aggregated or aggregation‐prone ubiquitinated proteins to the autophagic‐lysosomal system via ubiquitin receptors. Accumulating evidence for BAG3‐mediated selective autophagy independent of cargo ubiquitination led to analyses predicting a direct interaction of BAG3 with LC3 proteins. Phylogenetically, BAG3 comprises several highly conserved potential LIRs, LC3‐interacting regions, which might allow for the direct targeting of BAG3 including its cargo to autophagosomes and drive their autophagic degradation. Based on pull‐down experiments, peptide arrays and proximity ligation assays, our results provide evidence of an interaction of BAG3 with LC3B. In addition, we could demonstrate that disabling all predicted LIRs abolished the inducibility of a colocalization of BAG3 with LC3B‐positive structures and resulted in a substantial decrease of BAG3 levels within purified native autophagic vesicles compared with wild‐type BAG3. These results suggest an autophagic targeting of BAG3 via interaction with LC3B. Therefore, we conclude that, in addition to being a key co‐chaperone to HSP70, BAG3 may also act as a cargo receptor for client proteins, which would significantly extend the role of BAG3 in selective macroautophagy and protein quality control.
Endoscope‐assisted three‐wire technique for extensive nasal septum resection in horses
Authors: Ratliff Bridget L. , Bauck Anje G. , Roe Heather A. , Freeman David E.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To describe a 3‐wire method with endoscopic guidance for extensive nasal septum resection.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Sample population

Thirteen horses with nasal septum diseases.

Methods

In anesthetized horses in left lateral recumbency, endoscopic guidance was used to place obstetrical wires for the ventral and caudal incisions in the nasal septum and a trephine opening was used to place the dorsal wire. The rostral aspect of the septum was incised with a scalpel, followed by incisions with the preplaced wires, and the nasal passages were packed with gauze. Horses were recovered with a temporary tracheotomy.

Results

Conversion to intraoral placement of wires was required in two horses, one to correct entangled wires and the other because hemorrhage obscured the endoscopic view. Exercise tolerance was improved postoperatively, abnormal respiratory noise was decreased or eliminated by surgery in all horses, and all owners were satisfied. One Thoroughbred racehorse performed with modest success.

Conclusions

Modification of the 3‐wire method was effective and safe for extensive nasal septum removal. Technical complications of the procedure include entangling of wires and intraoperative hemorrhage.

Clinical significance

Endoscopic guidance can be used to place obstetrical wires for nasal septum resection in small horses and precludes use of a large tracheotomy for anesthetic delivery. Reasons for athletic failures were difficult to establish retrospectively, although assessment of postoperative noise at speed might be more relevant to recovery of athletic potential than assessment at slower gaits.
A Theory-Based Meta-Analysis: Stress Management Interventions for College Students
Authors: Williams Leadon D. , Lipscomb Thomas J. , Tiamuh Zita
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the combined average effect size for the efficacy of stress management interventions in randomized controlled trials with college students. A workplace stress intervention approach guided article selection. A single instrument measured stress. The analysis was a random effects model. The literature search in the spring of 2020 yielded eight qualifying studies, published from 2014-2020. The overall effect size was statistically significant (g = ‒0.41). Especially given pandemic-related stressors, this meta-analysis could serve as a baseline for future research comparisons. It mirrored results of other meta-analyses, discussed in the literature review. No prior meta-analysis to our knowledge has employed the same approach or framework.
The atypical ‘hippocampal’ glutamate receptor coupled to phospholipase D that controls stretch‐sensitivity in primary mechanosensory nerve endings is homomeric purely metabotropic GluK2
Authors: Thompson Karen J. , Watson Sonia , Zanato Chiara , Dall'Angelo Sergio , De Nooij Joriene C. , Pace‐Bonello Bethany , Shenton Fiona C. , Sanger Helen E. , Heinz Beverly A. , Broad Lisa M. , Grosjean Noelle , McQuillian Jessica R. , Dubini Marina , Pyner Susan , Greig Iain , Zanda Matteo , Bleakman David , Banks Robert W. , Bewick Guy S.
Published: September 2023

A metabotropic glutamate receptor coupled to phospholipase D (PLD‐mGluR) was discovered in the hippocampus over three decades ago. Its pharmacology and direct linkage to PLD activation are well established and indicate it is a highly atypical glutamate receptor. A receptor with the same pharmacology is present in spindle primary sensory terminals where its blockade can totally abolish, and its activation can double, the normal stretch‐evoked firing. We report here the first identification of this PLD‐mGluR protein, by capitalizing on its expression in primary mechanosensory terminals, developing an enriched source, pharmacological profiling to identify an optimal ligand, and then functionalizing it as a molecular tool. Evidence from immunofluorescence, western and far‐western blotting indicates PLD‐mGluR is homomeric GluK2, since GluK2 is the only glutamate receptor protein/receptor subunit present in spindle mechanosensory terminals. Its expression was also found in the lanceolate palisade ending of hair follicle, also known to contain the PLD‐mGluR. Finally, in a mouse model with ionotropic function ablated in the GluK2 subunit, spindle glutamatergic responses were still present, confirming it acts purely metabotropically. We conclude the PLD‐mGluR is a homomeric GluK2 kainate receptor signalling purely metabotropically and it is common to other, perhaps all, primary mechanosensory endings.
Does Economic Freedom Improve FDI Inflows in Sub-Saharan Africa?
Authors: Dia Ibrahima , Ondoa Henri Atangana
Published: September 2023

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of economic freedom on foreign direct investment (FDI) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). To this end, we employed a panel data analysis across 41 countries over the period 2000-2020. We used a two-stage least squares (2SLS) estimation method to address potential endogeneity issues. We found that economic freedom plays a crucial role in enhancing FDI inflows in SSA. Specifically, the results suggest that certain dimensions of economic freedom, such as the size of government and the legal system and property rights. Have a positive effect on FDI inflows in SSA. Conversely, components or dimensions like sound money and regulation have a negative impact. Freedom to trade has a positive sign on FDI. Regardless, these effects are statistically insignificant. Based on these outcomes, SSA countries should prioritize consolidating public spending on infrastructure development and enhancing the quality of investments in human capital formation. Additionally, strengthening the legal framework by ensuring the rule of law and a functional justice system that effectively safeguards the rights of investors is also necessary.
In-process volumetric sensing of defects in multiple parts during powder bed fusion using ultrasound
Authors: Kizer Nathan J. , Dickman Corey J. , Nassar Abdalla R. , Reutzel Edward W. , Kube Christopher M.
Published: September 2023

This letter reports on the integration of eight ultrasonic transducers into a build substrate for individual in-process monitoring of eight parts fabricated using powder bed fusion additive manufacturing. Ultrasound is shown to be able to sense poor fusion of parts to the substrate and also sensitivity to porosity. This technique demonstrates the utility of ultrasound as one of a few techniques able to interrogate the volume of additively manufactured parts during the process. Additionally, the ability to measure several parts during a single build can be used for efficient process parameter development studies, as the ultrasonic measurements can offer rapid information about part quality and integrity.
Observations of a black hole x-ray binary indicate formation of a magnetically arrested disk
Authors: You Bei , Cao Xinwu , Yan Zhen , Hameury Jean-Marie , Czerny Bozena , Wu Yue , Xia Tianyu , Sikora Marek , Zhang Shuang-Nan , Du Pu , Zycki Piotr T.
Published: August 2023

Accretion of material onto a black hole drags any magnetic fields present inwards, increasing their strength. Theory predicts that sufficiently strong magnetic fields can halt the accretion flow, producing a magnetically arrested disk (MAD). We analyzed archival multiwavelength observations of an outburst from the black hole x-ray binary MAXI J1820+070 in 2018. The radio and optical fluxes were delayed compared with the x-ray flux by about 8 and 17 days, respectively. We interpret this as evidence for the formation of a MAD. In this scenario, the magnetic field is amplified by an expanding corona, forming a MAD around the time of the radio peak. We propose that the optical delay is due to thermal viscous instability in the outer disk.
Wild pedigrees inform mutation rates and historic abundance in baleen whales
Authors: Suárez-Menéndez Marcos , Bérubé Martine , Furni Fabrício , Rivera-León Vania E. , Heide-Jørgensen Mads-Peter , Larsen Finn , Sears Richard , Ramp Christian , Eriksson Britas Klemens , Etienne Rampal S. , Robbins Jooke , Palsbøll Per J.
Published: August 2023

Phylogeny-based estimates suggesting a low germline mutation rate (μ) in baleen whales have influenced research ranging from assessments of whaling impacts to evolutionary cancer biology. We estimated μ directly from pedigrees in four baleen whale species for both the mitochondrial control region and nuclear genome. The results suggest values higher than those obtained through phylogeny-based estimates and similar to pedigree-based values for primates and toothed whales. Applying our estimate of μ reduces previous genetic-based estimates of preexploitation whale abundance by 86% and suggests that μ cannot explain low cancer rates in gigantic mammals. Our study shows that it is feasible to estimate μ directly from pedigrees in natural populations, with wide-ranging implications for ecological and evolutionary research.
Saving mothers with a simple act
Dr Semmelweis
Stephen Brown with Mark Rylance
Harold Pinter Theatre, London, UK, through 7 October 2023
Authors: Firestein Stuart
Published: August 2023

A compelling new play revisits the discovery that drastically reduced maternal mortality
In Science Journals
Authors: Smith Keith T. , Yeston Jake , Grocholski Brent , Uzogara Ekeoma , Stern Peter , Seale Maddy , Hallberg Dorothy L. , Alderton Gemma , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , Smith H. Jesse , Vignieri Sacha , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Ross Sarah H. , Kauzlarich Susan M.
Published: August 2023

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Why do cats love tuna so much?
Authors: Grimm David
Published: August 2023

Study identifies taste receptors that give our feline friends a craving for meat—and one fish in particular
Epidemiological characteristics of multidrug-resistant
Acinetobacter baumannii
ST369 in Anhui, China
Authors: Huang Yi , Ali Md Roushan , Li Wei , Wang Wanying , Dai Yuanyuan , Lu Huaiwei , He Zhien , Li Yujie , Sun Baolin
Published: September 2023

Acinetobacter baumannii
is of growing concern for global health owing to its ability to evade the immune system and develop resistance to antibiotics. We analyzed
A. baumannii
using the National Center for Biotechnology Information (
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pathogens
) database and observed that the ST369 strain isolated in China constituted over 50% of the globally prevalent ST369 clones. This finding highlights the significant impact of ST369 on public health in China. In this study, we examined eight strains of multidrug-resistant
A. baumannii
ST369 isolated from a provincial hospital in China. We conducted whole-genome sequencing, comparative genomic analysis, and phenotypic experiments, and used the
Galleria mellonella
infection model to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the organism. In our study, we identified two mutations, G540A and G667D, on the
wzc
gene of
A. baumannii
ST369 that can potentially affect bacterial virulence and viscosity. We also verified the impact of these mutations on virulence and resistance. In addition, we examined two proteins, AB46_0125 and AB152_03903, which may play a role in virulence. These findings establish a foundation for future studies on clinical ST369 isolates harboring such mutations.

IMPORTANCE

Acinetobacter baumannii
is a major health threat due to its antibiotic resistance and ability to cause nosocomial infections. Epidemiological studies indicated that the majority of globally prevalent ST369 clones originated from China, indicating a significant impact on public health in the country. In this study, we conducted whole-genome sequencing, comparative genomics, and
Galleria mellonella
infection model on eight
A. baumannii
ST369 isolates collected from a provincial hospital in China to comprehensively understand the organism. We identified two mutations (G540A and G667D) on the
wzc
gene that can affect bacterial virulence and viscosity. We confirmed their impact on resistance and virulence. We also investigated the potential involvement of AB46_0125 and AB152_03903 proteins in virulence. This finding provides a theoretical reference for further research on
A. baumannii
ST369 clinical isolates with similar mutations.
The efficacy of prevention for colon cancer based on the microbiota therapy and the antitumor mechanisms with intervention of dietary
Lactobacillus
Authors: Xu Fuqiang , Li Qiaoqiao , Wang Shuyang , Dong Miaoyin , Xiao Guoqing , Bai Jin , Wang Junkai , Sun Xisi
Published: September 2023

Gut microbiota and their secreted metabolites have an influence on the initiation and progression of colon cancer. Probiotics are extensively perceived as a potential microbiota-modulation strategy to promote the health of the host, while the effectiveness of preventing colon cancer based on microbiota therapy has not been confirmed, and antitumor mechanisms influenced by microbiota and their metabolites with the intervention of probiotics remain to be further investigated.
In vitro
,
Lactobacillus
(JY300-8 and JMR-01) significantly inhibited the proliferation of CT26, HT29, and HCT116 cells. Moreover, we studied the prevention and therapy efficiency of
Lactobacillus
and its underlying antitumor mechanism through the alteration of gut microbiota and their metabolites regulated by
Lactobacillus
in colon cancer models in mice. We demonstrated that the pre-administration of
Lactobacillus
(JY300-8 and JMR-01) for 20 days before establishing tumor models resulted in an 86.21% reduction in tumor formation rate compared to tumor control group. Subsequently, continuous oral administration of living
Lactobacillus
significantly suppresses tumor growth, and tumor volumes decrease by 65.2%. Microbiome and metabolome analyses reveal that
Lactobacillus
suppresses colonic tumorigenesis and progression through the modulation of gut microbiota homeostasis and metabolites, including the down-regulation of secondary bile acids, sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), and pyrimidine metabolism, as well as the production of anticarcinogenic compounds in tumor-bearing mice. Additionally, metabolome analyses of
Lactobacillus
(JY300-8 and JMR-01) indicate that living
Lactobacillus
could reduce the relative abundance of alanine and L-serine to suppress tumor progression by regulating the tumor microenvironment, including down-regulation of pyrimidine metabolism and S1P signaling in cancer. These findings provide a potential prevention strategy and therapeutic target for colon cancer through the intervention of dietary
Lactobacillus
.

IMPORTANCE

The modulation of gut microbiota and metabolites has a significant influence on the progression of colon cancer. Our research indicated that the intervention of probiotics is a potentially feasible strategy for preventing colon cancer. We have also revealed the underlying antitumor mechanism through the alteration of gut microbiota and their metabolites, which could lead to broader biomedical impacts on the prevention and therapy of colon cancer with microbiota-based therapy regulated by probiotics.
Fungal co-expression network analyses identify pathogen gene modules associated with host insect invasion
Authors: Huang Shuaishuai , Zhao Xin , Luo Zhibing , Tang Xiaohan , Zhou Yonghong , Keyhani Nemat , Zhang Yongjun
Published: September 2023

The broad host range fungal insect pathogen,
Beauveria bassiana
, has been commercialized as an alternative to chemical insecticides for pest control worldwide.
B. bassiana
represents a unique model system with which to examine host-pathogen interactions, and a wide range of genes and processes have been studied. However, significant aspects of virulence, particularly on the genomic scale, remain poorly studied. Here, we have combined available transcriptomes with three newly generated data sets for a combined total analysis of 76 deep-sequenced samples covering growth, development, stress responses, and infection during the life cycle of
B. bassiana
. Co-expression network analyses resulted in the identification of gene modules enriched during two critical stages of the infection process, namely (i) cuticle penetration and (ii)
in vivo
hyphal body (dimorphic transition) growth capable of avoiding innate and humoral immune defenses. These analyses identify unique signatures of metabolism, signaling, secondary metabolite production, host defense suppression, membrane reorganization, effector production, and secretion for each stage, including genetic regulators and epigenetic patterns. These data provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and probing fungal adaptations to its pathogenic life cycle and expand the candidate repertoire for continued dissection of the host-pathogen interaction.

IMPORTANCE

Insect fungal pathogens have evolved unique strategies for overcoming host structural and immunological defenses that span from the sclerotized cuticle to innate and humoral cellular responses. Two critical stages of the infection process involve (i) cuticle penetration and (ii) immune evasion within the insect hemocoel. A set of 76 global transcriptomic data for
B. bassiana
that include the cuticle penetration and hemocoel growth stages were analyzed for patterns (gene modules) of expression, yielding unique insights into these different life stages. These analyses integrate gene networks involved in fungal development, stress response and pathogenesis to further the systematic understanding of the global processes integral to the unique adaptation employed by fungal pathogens of insects.
Early inoculation of an endophyte alters the assembly of bacterial communities across rice plant growth stages
Authors: Wang Xing , He Shan-Wen , He Qing , Ju Zhi-Cheng , Ma Yi-Nan , Wang Zhe , Han Jia-Cheng , Zhang Xiao-Xia
Published: September 2023

The core endophytes of plants are regarded as promising resources in future agroecosystems. How they affect the assembly of rice-related bacterial communities after early inoculation remains unclear. Here, we examined bacterial communities across 148 samples, including bulk and rhizosphere soils, sterilized roots, stems, and seeds at the seedling, tillering, booting, and maturity stages. Tissue cultured rice seedlings were inoculated with
Xathomonas sacchari
JR3-14, a core endophytic bacterium of rice seeds, before transplanting. The results revealed that α-diversity indices were significantly enhanced in the root and stem endosphere at the seedling stage. β-diversity was altered at most plant developmental stages, except for the root and stem at the booting stage. Network complexity consequently increased in the root and stem across rice growth stages, other than the stem endosphere at the booting stage. Four abundant beneficial bacterial taxa,
Bacillus
,
Azospira
,
Azospirillum
, and
Arthrobacter
, were co-enriched during the early growth stage. Infer Community Assembly Mechanisms by Phylogenetic-bin-based null model analysis revealed a higher relative contribution of drift and other eco-evolutionary processes mainly in root compartments across all growth stages, but the opposite pattern was observed in stem compartments.

IMPORTANCE

Endophytic bacteria are regarded as promising environmentally friendly resources to promote plant growth and plant health. Some of microbes from the seed are able to be carried over to next generation, and contribute to the plant’s ability to adapt to new environments. However, the effects of early inoculation with core microbes on the assembly of the plant microbiome are still unclear. In our study, we demonstrate that early inoculation of the rice seed core endophytic bacterium
Xanthomonas sacchari
could alter community diversity, enhance complexity degree of network structure at most the growth stages, and enrich beneficial bacteria at the seedling stage of rice. We further analyzed the evolutionary processes caused by the early inoculation. Our results highlight the new possibilities for research and application of sustainable agriculture by considering the contribution of seed endophytes in crop production and breeding.
Association between catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation and mortality or stroke
Authors: Akerström Finn , Hutter Julie , Charitakis Emmanouil , Tabrizi Fariborz , Asaad Fahd , Bastani Hamid , Bourke Tara , Braunschweig Frieder , Drca Nikola , Englund Anders , Friberg Leif , Insulander Per , Jönsson Anders Hassel , Kennebäck Göran , Paul-Nordin Astrid , Sadigh Bita , Saluveer Ott , Saygi Serkan , Schwieler Jonas , Svennberg Emma , Tapanainen Jari , Türkmen Yusuf , Jensen-Urstad Mats
Published: September 2023

Objective

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation effectively reduces symptomatic burden. However, its long-term effect on mortality and stroke is unclear. We investigated if patients with atrial fibrillation who undergo catheter ablation have lower risk for all-cause mortality or stroke than patients who are managed medically.

Methods

We retrospectively included 5628 consecutive patients who underwent first-time catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation between 2008 and 2018 at three major Swedish electrophysiology units. Control individuals with an atrial fibrillation diagnosis but without previous stroke were selected from the Swedish National Patient Register, resulting in a control group of 48 676 patients. Propensity score matching was performed to produce two cohorts of equal size (n=3955) with similar baseline characteristics. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality or stroke.

Results

Patients who underwent catheter ablation were healthier (mean CHA2DS2-VASc score 1.4±1.4 vs 1.6±1.5, p<0.001), had a higher median income (288 vs 212 1000 Swedish krona [KSEK]/year, p<0.001) and had more frequently received university education (45.1% vs 28.9%, p<0.001). Mean follow-up was 4.5±2.8 years. After propensity score matching, catheter ablation was associated with lower risk for the combined primary endpoint (HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.69). The result was mainly driven by a decrease in all-cause mortality (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.63), with stroke reduction showing a trend in favour of catheter ablation (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.07).

Conclusions

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation was associated with a reduction in the primary endpoint of all-cause mortality or stroke. This result was driven by a marked reduction in all-cause mortality.
Evaluating the prospective utility of pharmacogenetics reporting among Canadian Armed Forces personnel receiving pharmacotherapy: a preliminary assessment towards precision psychiatric care
Authors: Roth Maya , King L , St Cyr K , Mohsin U , Balderson K , Rhind S , Goldman A , Richardson D
Published: September 2023

Pharmacological interventions for treating posttraumatic stress disorder in Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and Veterans often achieve modest results. The field of pharmacogenetics, or the study of how genes influence an individual�s response to different medications, offers insight into how prior knowledge of gene-drug interactions may potentially improve the trial-and-error process of drug selection in pharmacotherapy, thereby improving treatment effects and remission rates. Given the relative recency of pharmacogenetics testing and sparse research in military samples, we used pharmacogenetics testing in a small pilot group (n=23) of CAF members and Veterans who were already engaged in pharmacotherapy for a service-related mental health condition to better understand the associated opportunities and challenges of pharmacogenetics testing in this population. Our preliminary evaluation involved: (1) reporting the prevalence of pharmacogenetics testing �bin� status according to participants� reports (�green�, �yellow� or �red�; intending to signal �go�, �caution� or �stop�, regarding the potential for gene-drug interactions); (2) calculating the percentage of currently prescribed psychotropic medications that were assessed and included in the reports; (3) evaluating whether prescribers used pharmacogenetics testing information according to clinical notes and (4) collecting informal feedback from participating psychiatrists. While pharmacogenetics testing appeared to provide valuable information for a number of clients, a major limitation was the number of commonly prescribed medications not included in the reports.
Patterns in hospital admissions for adults with congenital heart disease for non-cardiac procedures
Authors: Friess Jan Oliver , França Urbano L , Valente Anne Marie , DiNardo James A , McManus Michael L , Nasr Viviane G
Published: September 2023

Objective

Advances in management of congenital heart disease (CHD) have led to an increasing population of adults with CHD, many of whom require non-cardiac procedures. The objectives of this study were to describe the characteristics of these patients, their distribution among different hospital categories and the characteristics determining this distribution, and mortality rates following noncardiac procedures.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 27 state inpatient databases. Encounters with CHD and non-cardiac procedures were included. The location of care was classified into two categories: hospitals with and without cardiac surgical programmes. Variables included were demographics, comorbidity index, mortality. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore predictors for care in different locations.

Results

The cohort consisted of 12 944 encounters in 1206 hospitals. Most patients were cared for in hospitals with a cardiac surgical programme (78.1%). Patients presenting to hospitals with a cardiac surgical programme presented with higher comorbidity index (6 (IQR: 0–19) vs 2 (IQR: −3–14), p<0.001) than patients presenting to hospitals without a cardiac surgical programme. Mortality was higher in hospitals with cardiac surgical programmes compared with hospitals without cardiac surgical programmes (4.0% vs 2.3%, p<0.001). Factors associated with provision of care at a hospital with a cardiac surgical programme were comorbidity index (>7: OR 2.01 (95% CI 1.83 to 2.21), p<0.001; 2–7: OR 1.59 (95% CI 1.41 to 1.79), p<0.001) and age (18–44 years: OR 1.43 (95% CI 1.26 to 1.62), p<0.001; 45–64 years: OR 1.21 (95% CI 1.08 to 1.34), p<0.001).

Conclusion

Adults with CHD undergoing non-cardiac procedures are mainly cared for in hospitals with a cardiac surgical programme and have greater comorbidities and higher mortality than those in centres without cardiac surgical programmes. Risk stratification and locoregional accessibility need further assessment to fully understand admission patterns.
Experimental observation of phase transitions of a deformed Dicke model using a reconfigurable, bi-parametric electronic platform
Authors: Quiroz-Juárez Mario A. , Corps Ángel L. , Molina Rafael A. , Relaño Armando , Aragón José L. , León-Montiel Roberto de J. , Hirsch Jorge G.
Published: September 2023

We experimentally study the infinite-size limit of the Dicke model of quantum optics with a parity-breaking deformation strength that couples the system to an external bosonic reservoir. We focus on the dynamical consequences of such symmetry breaking, which makes the classical phase space asymmetric with non-equivalent energy wells. We present an experimental implementation of the classical version of the deformed Dicke model using a state-of-the-art bi-parametric electronic platform. Our platform constitutes a playground for studying representative phenomena of the deformed Dicke model in electrical circuits with the possibility of externally controlling parameters and initial conditions. In particular, we investigate the dynamics of the ground state, various phase transitions and the asymmetry of the energy wells as a function of the coupling strength $$\gamma $$
γ
and the deformation strength $$\alpha $$
α
in the resonant case. Additionally, to characterize the various behavior regimes, we present a two-dimensional phase diagram as a function of the two intrinsic system parameters. The onset of chaos is also analyzed experimentally. Our findings provide a clear connection between theoretical predictions and experimental observations, demonstrating the usefulness of our bi-parametric electronic setup.
Loop dynamics of a fully discrete short pulse equation
Authors: Sarfraz H. , Saleem U. , Hanif Y.
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a fully discrete short pulse (SP) equation is presented as an integrability condition of a linear system of difference equations (also known as discrete Lax pair). Additionally, two semi-discrete versions of the SP equation have also been obtained from fully discrete SP equation under continuum limits. Darboux transformation is employed to compute multi-soliton solutions of fully discrete and semi-discrete SP equations. Explicit expressions of first and second nontrivial soliton solutions are computed. We also derived explicit expression of breather solution for fully discrete SP equation. The dynamics of single loop soliton and interaction mechanism of loop–loop and loop–antiloop solutions have been explored and illustrated.
Two fluid cosmological models in f(R,T) theory of gravity
Authors: Solanke Y. S. , Mhaske Sandhya , Pawar D. D. , Dagwal V. J.
Published: August 2023

This work deals with the two fluid Bianchi type-V cosmological models consisting of matter and radiating source in the [Formula: see text] theory of gravity studied by Harko et al. [Phys. Rev. D 84, 024020 (2011)]. In this paper, we developed a new idea about [Formula: see text] gravity with the help of two fluids: one fluid is matter field modeling material content of the Universe and other fluid is radiation field modeling the cosmic microwave background (CMB). We have determined the solution of the two fluid gravitational field equations with the systematic structure in [Formula: see text] gravity. Here, we have deliberated four types of universe such as dust universe, radiation universe, hard universe and Zel’dovich universe and also extended our work to observe the big rip and big bang singularity. We have also tested the cosmological parameters.
Momentum, heat and mass transfer in the hydrodynamic electrically conducting fluid flow over a stretching sheet
Authors: Tawade Jagadish V. , Haewon Byeon , Baradar Mahadev M. , Kaviyarasu M. , Govindan Vediyappan , Janthe Pradeep G. , Altuijri Reem , Sayfutdinovna Abdullaeva Barno , Paulraj Jayasimman I.
Published: August 2023

This study looks at the numerical results of magnetohydrodynamic liquid flowing across a stretching sheet at its stagnation point while also experiencing chemical reaction, viscous dissipation, thermal radiation and variable magnetic field. The fundamental partial differential equations that regulate physical phenomena are converted into nonlinear ordinary differential equations by using the appropriate similarity transformations. Later, resolved by numerically using Mathematica. The effects of various non-dimensional parameters like velocity ratio parameter ([Formula: see text]), porosity (k), magnetic parameter (M), radiation parameter (R), chemical reaction parameter ([Formula: see text]), etc. on the velocity, temperature and concentration profiles as well as on the local skin-friction and the local Nusselt number are discussed in detail and displayed through graphs. The numerical evaluation of the physical quantities was provided in tabular form for the various values of the relevant stream parameters. It is important to note that magnetic field interaction increases concentration distribution and fluid temperature while decreasing velocities at all domain flow locations.