bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operando spectroelectrochemistry of bulk-exfoliated 2D SnS2 for anodes within alkali metal ion batteries reveals unusual tin (III) states
Authors: Radtke Mariusz , Hess Christian
Published: October 2022

In this study we report an affordable synthesis and preparation of an electrochemically exfoliated few-layer 2-dimensional (2D) SnS2 anode material of high cycling durability and demonstrate its performance on the example of alkali metal batteries. The metalation mechanism consists of highly unusual and previously only speculated Sn (III)-state grasped by operando Raman spectroelectrochemistry aided by symmetry analysis. The prepared 2D material flakes were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron and Raman spectroscopies. The operando Raman spectroelectrochemistry was chosen as a dedicated tool for the investigation of alkali-metal-ion intercalation (Li, Na, K), whereby the distortion of the A1g Raman active mode (out-of-plane S-Sn-S vibration) during battery charging exhibited a substantial dependence on the electrochemically applied potential. As a result of the structural dynamics a considerable Raman red-shift of 17.6 cm−1 was observed during metalation. Linewidth changes were used to evaluate the expansion caused by metalation, which in case of sodium and potassium were found to be minimal compared to lithium. Based on the spectroscopic and electrochemical results, a mechanism for the de-/intercalation of lithium, sodium and potassium is proposed which includes alloying in few-layer 2D SnS2 materials and the generation of point-defects.
Alterations in the gut microbiota of AIDS patients with pneumocystis pneumonia and correlations with the lung microbiota
Authors: Zhu Mingli , Liu Sai , Zhao Chenfei , Shi Jinchuan , Li Chaodan , Ling Shisheng , Cheng Jianghao , Dong Wenkun , Xu Jiru
Published: October 2022

Background

Due to the inability to be cultured in vitro, the biological characteristics and pathogenicity of Pneumocystis jirovecii remain unclear. Intestinal microflora disorder is related to the occurrence and development of various pulmonary diseases. This work explores the pathogenesis of pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients from a microbiome perspective, to provide better strategies for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of PCP.

Methods

Subjects were divided into three groups: human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients combined with PCP, HIV-infected patients without PCP, and HIV-negative. Stool and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were collected, total DNA was extracted, and 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing was performed using an Illumina MiSeq platform. PICRUSt and BugBase were used to predict microflora functions, and correlation analysis of intestinal and lung bacterial flora was conducted.

Results

Compared with the HIV- group, prevotella and another 21 genera in the intestinal microbiome were statistically different in the HIV+ group; 25 genera including Escherichia-Shigella from HIV+PCP+ group were statistically different from HIV+PCP- group. The abundance of Genera such as Porphyromonas was positively or negatively correlated with CD16/CD56+ (μL). Compared with the HIV- group, identification efficiency based on area under the curve (AUC) >0.7 for the HIV+ group identified seven genera in the gut microbiota, including Enterococcus (total AUC = 0.9519). Compared with the HIV+PCP- group, there were no bacteria with AUC >0.7 in the lung or intestine of the HIV+PCP+ group. The number of shared bacteria between BALF and fecal samples was eight species in the HIV- group, 109 species in PCP- patients, and 228 species in PCP+ patients, according to Venn diagram analysis. Changes in various clinical indicators and blood parameters were also closely related to the increase or decrease in the abundance of intestinal and pulmonary bacteria, respectively.

Conclusions

HIV infection and PCP significantly altered the species composition of lung and intestinal microbiomes, HIV infection also significantly affected intestinal microbiome gene functions, and PCP exacerbated the changes. The classification model can be used to distinguish HIV+ from HIV- patients, but the efficiency of bacterial classification was poor between PCP+ and PCP- groups. The microbiomes in the lung and gut were correlated to some extent, providing evidence for the existence of a lung-gut axis, revealing a potential therapeutic target in patients with HIV and PCP.
The safety of early discharge following transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement under general anesthesia
Authors: Koren Ofir , Patel Vivek , Kohan Siamak , Naami Robert , Naami Edmund , Allison Zev , Natanzon Sharon Shalom , Shechter Alon , Nagasaka Takashi , Al Badri Ahmed , Devanabanda Arvind Reddy , Nakamura Mamoo , Cheng Wen , Jilaihawi Hasan , Makkar Raj R.
Published: October 2022

Background

There is growing evidence of the safety of same-day discharge for low-risk conscious sedated TAVR patients. However, the evidence supporting the safety of early discharge following GA-TAVR with routine transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is limited.

Aims

To assess the safety of early discharge following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) using General Anesthesia (GA-TAVR) and identify predictors for patient selection.

Materials and methods

We used data from 2,447 TEE-guided GA-TAVR patients performed at Cedars-Sinai between 2016 and 2021. Patients were categorized into three groups based on the discharge time from admission: 24 h, 24–48 h, and >48 h. Predictors for 30-day outcomes (cumulative adverse events and death) were validated on a matched cohort of 24 h vs. >24 h using the bootstrap model.

Results

The >48 h group had significantly worse baseline cardiovascular profile, higher surgical risk, low functional status, and higher procedural complications than the 24 h and the 24–48 h groups. The rate of 30-day outcomes was significantly lower in the 24 h than the >48 h but did not differ from the 24–48 h (11.3 vs. 15.5 vs. 11.7%, p = 0.003 and p = 0.71, respectively). Independent poor prognostic factors of 30-day outcomes had a high STS risk of ≥8 (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.30–2.77, E-value = 3.2, P < 0.001), low left ventricle ejection fraction of <30% (OR 6.0, 95% CI 3.96–9.10, E-value = 11.5, P < 0.001), and life-threatening procedural complications (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.20–5.89, E-value = 4.7, P = 0.04). Our formulated predictors showed a good discrimination ability for patient selection (AUC: 0.78, 95% CI 0.75–0.81).

Conclusion

Discharge within 24 h following GA-TAVR using TEE is safe for selected patients using our proposed validated predictors.
Case report: Total thoracoscopic repair of sinus of Valsalva aneurysm combined with ventricular septal defect
Authors: Tan Tong , Liu Haozhong , Ma Jianrui , Liu Jian , Yuan Haiyun , Guo Huiming
Published: October 2022

The sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) is a rare cardiac anomaly. It can develop into the heart failure if it ruptures, which requires early intervention. However, such congenital anomalies are usually treated using a median sternotomy approach. Here, we report a rare case of SVA combined with a ventricular septal defect in which the patient underwent patch repair of the defects under a total thoracoscopy approach. She was discharged uneventfully and showed no residual shunt or aortic regurgitation postoperatively or at the 12-month follow-up. The total thoracoscopic approach for SVA repair is technically feasible.
Left main coronary artery atresia in a 2-year-old toddler with de novo heart failure: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Asl Fallah Sahar , Mahdavi Mohammad , Rezaei-Kalantari Kiara , Qanadli Salah D. , Mirsadraee Saeed
Published: October 2022

Congenital coronary anomalies are among the rare disorders of the otherwise normal heart. A 2-year-old toddler was evaluated for de novo heart failure after a flu-like event 2 months before being suspicious of post-Covid-19 dilated cardiomyopathy. The cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) technique displayed the basal to mid subendocardial to transmural scar, suggestive of an ischemic etiology. Further assessment with CT and invasive angiography confirmed the very uncommon left main coronary artery atresia (LMCAA) as the main cause of the patient's heart failure. This is not only the first reported LMCAA case that had undergone a CMR study but was also initially suspected with characteristic CMR findings.
Precocious puberty and microbiota: The role of the sex hormone–gut microbiome axis
Authors: Calcaterra Valeria , Rossi Virginia , Massini Giulia , Regalbuto Corrado , Hruby Chiara , Panelli Simona , Bandi Claudio , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo
Published: October 2022

Puberty is a critical phase of life associated with physiological changes related to sexual maturation, and represents a complex process regulated by multiple endocrine and genetic controls. Puberty is driven by hormones, and it can impact the gut microbiome (GM). GM differences between sex emerge at puberty onset, confirming a relationship between microbiota and sex hormones. In this narrative review, we present an overview of precocious pubertal development and the changes in the GM in precocious puberty (PP) in order to consider the role of the sex hormone–gut microbiome axis from the perspective of pediatric endocrinology. Bidirectional interactions between the GM and sex hormones have been proposed in different studies. Although the evidence on the interaction between microbiota and sex hormones remains limited in pediatric patients, the evidence that GM alterations may occur in girls with central precocious puberty (CPP) represents an interesting finding for the prediction and prevention of PP. Deepening the understanding of the connection between the sex hormones and the role of microbiota changes can lead to the implementation of microbiota-targeted therapies in pubertal disorders by offering a pediatric endocrinology perspective.
Genetic conditions of short stature: A review of three classic examples
Authors: Butler Merlin G. , Miller Bradley S. , Romano Alicia , Ross Judith , Abuzzahab M. Jennifer , Backeljauw Philippe , Bamba Vaneeta , Bhangoo Amrit , Mauras Nelly , Geffner Mitchell
Published: October 2022

Noonan, Turner, and Prader-Willi syndromes are classical genetic disorders that are marked by short stature. Each disorder has been recognized for several decades and is backed by extensive published literature describing its features, genetic origins, and optimal treatment strategies. These disorders are accompanied by a multitude of comorbidities, including cardiovascular issues, endocrinopathies, and infertility. Diagnostic delays, syndrome-associated comorbidities, and inefficient communication among the members of a patient’s health care team can affect a patient’s well-being from birth through adulthood. Insufficient information is available to help patients and their multidisciplinary team of providers transition from pediatric to adult health care systems. The aim of this review is to summarize the clinical features and genetics associated with each syndrome, describe best practices for diagnosis and treatment, and emphasize the importance of multidisciplinary teams and appropriate care plans for the pediatric to adult health care transition.
Lobectomy may be more appropriate for patients with early-stage medullary thyroid cancer older than 60 years old
Authors: Yang Binfeng , Niu Guangcai , Li Xiaoxin , Ma Fenfen , Ma Yanhong , Hu Shaojun
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Clinical guidelines presently recommend total thyroidectomy for the treatment of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). This study was aimed to investigate whether lobectomy could be the initial treatment for stage I MTC patients.

Methods

The retrospective study was based on data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 2004 and 2015. The risk factors of survival were estimated by the univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards model. The effect of age on death risk was estimated using restricted cubic splines. Survival curves were constructed according to the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

A total of 988 stage I MTC patients was included in the study. Among them, 506 (51.2%) MTC patients received lobectomy and 482 (48.8%) received total thyroidectomy. The only independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) was age, according to univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. The hazard ratio (HR) increased relatively slowly with age growing under the age of approximately 60 years. However, the death risk of MTC patients began to rise sharply with increasing age above 60 years. For patients under the age of 60, a significant survival difference for OS and DSS was observed between the lobectomy group and total thyroidectomy group (p < 0.05). However, for patients aged above 60, no significant survival difference was observed for OS or DSS (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Total thyroidectomy was an appropriate treatment for stage I MTC patients under the age of 60, which was consistent with the recommendation of the clinical guidelines. However, for those over the age of 60, lobectomy may be explored as a better surgical option. The findings may provide the evidence base for improving the clinical management of stage I MTC patients. Further prospective multicenter clinical studies are needed including information regarding RET status as well as calcitonin and CEA levels.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of gut microbiota in diabetic kidney disease: Comparisons with diabetes mellitus, non-diabetic kidney disease, and healthy individuals
Authors: Han Shisheng , Chen Min , Cheng Pei , Zhang Zeng , Lu Yan , Xu Yanqiu , Wang Yi
Published: October 2022

Background

Gut microbiota has been reported to play an important role in diabetic kidney disease (DKD), however, the alterations of gut bacteria have not been determined.

Methods

Studies comparing the differences of gut microbiome between patients with DKD and non-DKD individuals using high-throughput sequencing technology, were systematically searched and reviewed. Outcomes were set as gut bacterial diversity, microbial composition, and correlation with clinical parameters of DKD. Qualitative data were summarized and compared through a funnel R script, and quantitative data were estimated by meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 15 studies and 1640 participants were included, the comparisons were conducted between DKD, diabetes mellitus (DM), non-diabetic kidney disease (NDKD), and healthy controls. There were no significant differences of α-diversity between DKD and DM, and between DKD and NDKD, however, significant lower microbial richness was found in DKD compared to healthy controls. Different bacterial compositions were found between DKD and non-DKD subjects. The phylum Actinobacteria were found to be enriched in DKD compared to healthy controls. At the genus level, we found the enrichment of Hungatella, Bilophila, and Escherichia in DKD compared to DM, patients with DKD showed lower abundances of Faecalibacterium compared to those with NDKD. The genera Butyricicoccus, Faecalibacterium, and Lachnospira were depleted in DKD compared to healthy controls, whereas Hungatella, Escherichia, and lactobacillus were significantly enriched. The genus Ruminococcus torques group was demonstrated to be inversely correlated with estimated glomerular filtration rate of DKD.

Conclusions

Gut bacterial alterations was demonstrated in DKD, characterized by the enrichment of the genera Hungatella and Escherichia, and the depletion of butyrate-producing bacteria, which might be associated with the occurrence and development of DKD. Further studies are still needed to validate these findings, due to substantial heterogeneity.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022340870.
Computational fluid dynamics simulations to improve performance characteristics of a manifold having a central inlet and outlet
Authors: Ganguli Arijit A. , Pandit Aniruddha B.
Published: October 2022

In the present work, performance/flow characteristics (namely, the effect of operating parameters like pressure on flow patterns, pressure drop, and the extent of flow uniformity) and transport phenomena of a manifold (header tube assembly) having an inlet and outlet at the center are carried out on a macroscale geometry using CFD simulations. In this study, an existing design available in the published literature (with high flow non-uniformity) was considered and an optimized design (with minimum flow non-uniformity) was developed. The optimization is performed by incorporating a perforated plate (distributor) inside the top header of the manifold. First, CFD simulations for different configurations of the existing design with the perforated plate have been performed for a pressure of 10 bar with steam as a working fluid, and an optimized configuration having a minimum flow non-uniformity of less than 3% is obtained. CFD simulations for both the existing design and optimized design are then performed for a pressure range (10 ≤ p ≤ 70 bar) and the corresponding Reynolds number (Re) range (2.82E+05 ≤ Re ≤ 2.82E+06) with steam as the working fluid. The extent of non-uniformity (ENU) and pressure drop for the existing design (without a distributor) and optimized design (with a distributor) have been analyzed and compared. The optimized design gives the near uniform flow (∼1–4%) for all pressures and Reynolds numbers considered. An empirical correlation relating the friction factor (as per the Chilton–Colburn analogy) and Re has been developed for both designs (with and without a distributor). The predicted friction factors are compared with the present CFD predictions, and experimental data of the shell and tube heat exchanger are available in the published literature. A good agreement within a 10–15% deviation has been observed. Based on the Chilton–Colburn analogy, a correlation for the Nusselt number is obtained from the friction factor correlations for both with and without distributor cases. The correlations for friction factors were found to be valid under any operating conditions for a pressure drop range within 0.05 < ∆p < 1.8 bar irrespective of the design of the distributor, assuming that the manifold is able to withstand the pressure drops in the given range.
Spatio-temporal distribution characteristics and influencing factors of drought in the Liaohe river basin, China
Authors: Gong Yuanshan
Published: October 2022

Effective identification of drought-related events and quantitative analysis of the spatio-temporal evolution of drought are essential for regional disaster prevention and mitigation and sustainable development. Based on monthly precipitation and average temperature data from 113 grid points in the Liaohe River Basin (LRB) from 1961 to 2018, this study evaluated the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) on monthly, quarterly, 6-monthly, and annual scales. Run-length theory was used to extract three characteristic variables of drought—frequency, severity, and duration—for different grades of drought. Linear regressions, Manner–Kendall mutation tests, correlations, and other methods were used to analyze the spatio-temporal distribution characteristics of the different levels of drought and their influencing factors. Results from this research can provide a scientific reference for disaster prevention and mitigation, water conservancy project planning and construction, land space ecological restoration, and development and protection in the LRB. Our results indicated the following: 1) overall, from 1961 to 2018, the short-term SPEI (monthly, quarterly) showed an upward trend (0.06/103a, 0.01/103a), while the long-term SPEI (6-monthly, annual) showed a downward trend (−0.01/103a, −0.3/103a), and the overall change occurred in three stages, specifically stable–decline–increase. From a seasonal point of view, the SPEI in spring, summer, and autumn showed an upward trend, and although the SPEI showed multiple mutations during all seasons, they were not significant (p > 0.05). 2) Moderate drought occurred the most frequently (32 times) and was concentrated in the northern and western parts of the LRB. The severity of extreme drought in the upper reaches of the Chagan Mulun River was low, with a minimum SPEI of −7.07, and the durations of mild, moderate, severe, and extreme drought were 2, 2-2.5, 2–3, and 3–4 months, respectively. 3) SPEI-1 (monthly) showed the strongest correlation with precipitation and air temperature, which decreased with increasing time frames, such that SPEI-12 (annual) showed the weakest correlation. The correlations between SPEI and precipitation at different time scales were all highly significant (p < 0.01), and the correlation strength was much greater than that for air temperature, indicating that precipitation had the most significant impact on drought conditions in the LRB.
Assessing the effect of the joint governance of transboundary pollution on water quality: Evidence from China
Authors: Jing Shouwu , Liao Liping , Du Minzhe , Shi Enyi
Published: October 2022

The joint governance of transboundary river pollution is an important means to resolve disputes between upstream and downstream, to achieve regional coordinated development and water environment governance. In this paper, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand and ammonia nitrogen are used to measure water quality. Regarding the joint governance of transboundary water pollution as a quasi-natural experiment, this paper employs a difference-in-differences model of causal judgment to assess the effect of the policy on transboundary water quality based on the water quality monitoring week data from 2004 to 2016 in China. The results show that compared with non-trans-provincial rivers, the joint governance of water pollution at the provincial boundary could significantly promote the rise of dissolved oxygen, while reducing the chemical oxygen demand and ammonia nitrogen emissions. Additionally, the long-term dynamics based on the dynamic trend suggests that the implementation of this policy has fluctuations in the improvement of dissolved oxygen, but has a strong continuous effect on the reduction of chemical oxygen demand and ammonia nitrogen. These results stand up to robustness tests. Moreover, the green promotion pressure of officials and stakeholder supervision are important influence mechanisms of transboundary joint pollution control on improving transboundary water quality. An important implication is to provide a long-term way for collaborative water pollution control and solving transboundary water pollution disputes.
Challenges with misclassification of American Indian/Alaska Native race and Hispanic ethnicity on death records in North Carolina occupational fatalities surveillance
Authors: McClure Elizabeth S. , Gartner Danielle R. , Bell Ronny A. , Cruz Theresa H. , Nocera Maryalice , Marshall Stephen W. , Richardson David B.
Published: October 2022

As frequently segregated and exploitative environments, workplaces are important sites in driving health and mortality disparities by race and ethnicity. Because many worksites are federally regulated, US workplaces also offer opportunities for effectively intervening to mitigate these disparities. Development of policies for worker safety and equity should be informed by evidence, including results from research studies that use death records and other sources of administrative data. North Carolina has a long history of Black/white disparities in work-related mortality and evidence of such disparities is emerging in Hispanic and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) worker populations. The size of Hispanic and AI/AN worker populations have increased in North Carolina over the last decade, and North Carolina has the largest AI/AN population in the eastern US. Previous research indicates that misidentification of Hispanic and AI/AN identities on death records can lead to underestimation of race/ethnicity-specific mortality rates. In this commentary, we describe problems and complexities involved in determining AI/AN and Hispanic identities from North Carolina death records. We provide specific examples of misidentification that are likely introducing bias to occupational mortality disparity documentation, and offer recommendations for improved data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Our primary recommendation is to build and maintain relationships with local community leadership, so that improvements in the ascertainment of race and ethnicity are grounded in the lived experience of workers from communities of color.
Construction of the prognostic signature of alternative splicing revealed the prognostic predictor and immune microenvironment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ye Fan , Wu Pingan , Zhu Yaqiong , Huang Guan , Tao Ying , Liao Zhencheng , Guan Yafeng
Published: October 2022

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) is a prevalent and heterogeneous malignancy with poor prognosis and high mortality rates. There is significant evidence of alternative splicing (AS) contributing to tumor development, suggesting its potential in predicting prognosis and therapeutic efficacy. This study aims to establish an AS-based prognostic signature in HNSC patients.

Methods: The expression profiles and clinical information of 486 HNSC patients were downloaded from the TCGA database, and the AS data were downloaded from the TCGA SpliceSeq database. The survival-associated AS events were identified by conducting a Cox regression analysis and utilized to develop a prognostic signature by fitting into a LASSO-regularized Cox regression model. Survival analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed to evaluate the signature and an independent cohort was used for validation. The immune cell function and infiltration were analyzed by CIBERSORT and the ssGSEA algorithm.

Results: Univariate Cox regression analysis identified 2726 survival-associated AS events from 1714 genes. The correlation network reported DDX39B, PRPF39, and ARGLU1 as key splicing factors (SF) regulating these AS events. Eight survival-associated AS events were selected and validated by LASSO regression to develop a prognostic signature. It was confirmed that this signature could predict HNSC outcomes independent of other variables via multivariate Cox regression analysis. The risk score AUC was more than 0.75 for 3 years, highlighting the signature’s prediction capability. Immune infiltration analysis reported different immune cell distributions between the two risk groups. The immune cell content was higher in the high-risk group than in the low-risk group. The correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation between risk score, immune cell subsets, and immune checkpoint expression.

Conclusion: The prognostic signature developed from survival-associated AS events could predict the prognosis of HNSC patients and their clinical response to immunotherapy. However, this signature requires further research and validation in larger cohort studies.
Adverse events of immune checkpoint inhibitors for patients with digestive system cancers: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kou Liqiu , Wen Qinglian , Xie Xiaolu , Chen Xiu , Li Jun , Li Yaling
Published: October 2022

Objective

To study the incidence and distribution of adverse events in immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) for digestive system cancers and to provide a reference for the safe, rational, and effective use of immune detection site inhibitors.

Methods

We searched for articles published in English between January 1, 2010, and May 18, 2022. All clinical trials of ICI-based therapies for digestive system cancers were investigated, including only randomized controlled trials that reported data on the overall incidence of treatment-related adverse events (trAEs) or immune-related adverse reactions (irAEs) or tables.

Results

We searched 2048 records, of which 21 studies (7108 patients) were eligible for inclusion. The incidence of ICI trAEs of any grade was 82.7% (95% CI 73.9-90.0), and the incidence of grade 3 or higher trAEs was 27.5% (95% CI 21.3-34.1). The pooled rate of ICI irAEs of any grade was 26.3% (95% CI 11.8-44.0), and the incidence of grade 3 or higher irAEs was 9.4% (95% CI 1.1-24.6). In multivariate analysis, the incidence, characteristics, and distribution of AEs varied by cancer type, combination therapy modality (single/two-drug), and different agent types.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis summarizes AEs associated with ICI in digestive system cancers. The incidence, characteristics, and distribution of AEs vary by cancer type, combination therapy modality, and different agent types. These findings can be considered for the early identification of AEs and provide effective interventions to reduce the severity of these patients. It can provide a clinical reference and may contribute to clinical practice.
Common molecular mechanism and immune infiltration patterns of thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms
Authors: He Bin , Zhan Ya , Cai Chunyu , Yu Dianyou , Wei Qinjiang , Quan Liping , Huang Da , Liu Yan , Li Zhile , Liu Li , Pan Xingshou
Published: October 2022

Background

Aortic disease (aortic aneurysm (AA), dissection (AD)) is a serious threat to patient lives. Little is currently known about the molecular mechanisms and immune infiltration patterns underlying the development and progression of thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms (TAA and AAA), warranting further research.

Methods

We downloaded AA (includes TAA and AAA) datasets from the GEO database. The potential biomarkers in TAA and AAA were identified using differential expression analysis and two machine-learning algorithms. The discrimination power of the potential biomarkers and their diagnostic accuracy was assessed in validation datasets using ROC curve analysis. Then, GSEA, KEGG, GO and DO analyses were conducted. Furthermore, two immuno-infiltration analysis algorithms were utilized to analyze the common immune infiltration patterns in TAA and AAA. Finally, a retrospective clinical study was performed on 78 patients with AD, and the serum from 6 patients was used for whole exome sequencing (WES).

Results

The intersection of TAA and AAA datasets yielded 82 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Subsequently, the biomarkers (CX3CR1 and HBB) were acquired by screening using two machine-learning algorithms and ROC curve analysis. The functional analysis of DEGs showed significant enrichment in inflammation and regulation of angiogenic pathways. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed that adaptive and innate immune responses were closely linked to AA progression. However, neither CX3CR1 nor HBB was associated with B cell-mediated humoral immunity. CX3CR1 expression was correlated with macrophages and HBB with eosinophils. Finally, our retrospective clinical study revealed a hyperinflammatory environment in aortic disease. The WES study identified disease biomarkers and gene variants, some of which may be druggable.

Conclusion

The genes CX3CR1 and HBB can be used as common biomarkers in TAA and AAA. Large numbers of innate and adaptive immune cells are infiltrated in AA and are closely linked to the development and progression of AA. Moreover, CX3CR1 and HBB are highly correlated with the infiltration of immune cells and may be potential targets of immunotherapeutic drugs. Gene mutation research is a promising direction for the treatment of aortic disease.
Biology of exploited groupers (Epinephelidae family) around La Réunion Island (Indian Ocean)
Authors: Mahé Kélig , Gentil Claire , Brisset Blandine , Evano Hugues , Lepetit Camille , Boymond-Morales Romane , Telliez Soléne , Dussuel Antoine , Rungassamy Tévamie , Elleboode Romain , MacKenzie Kirsteen , Roos David
Published: October 2022

The groupers (Epinephelidae family) are demersal species that are a vulnerable resource due to increasing fishing pressure around Reunion Island. Five species of groupers are among the main species exploited by commercial and recreational fisheries around La Réunion Island: blacktip grouper (Epinephelus fasciatus; Forsskål 1775), oblique-banded grouper (Epinephelus radiatus; Day 1868), golden hind (Cephalopholis aurantia, Valenciennes 1828), white-edged lyretail (Variola albimarginata; Baissac 1953) and yellow-edged lyretail (Variola louti; Fabricius 1775). From 2014 to 2021, a total of 482 individuals were caught. Body length-weight relationships showed a significant relationship between total length and total weight for all species. Among the five grouper species, significant sexual dimorphism was only observed for E. fasciatus. For each grouper species, the von Bertalanffy model gave the best fit for the ageing data. While the unconstrained von Bertalanffy model fitted very well to the data of four species (C. aurantia, E. radiatus; V. albimarginata and V. louti), the Gompertz model gave the best fit for the ageing data of E. fasciatus. The parameters of these growth models gave the asymptotic length TL∞ (from 28.9 cm for C. aurantia to 76.6 cm for V. louti), and growth rate K (from 0.16 for V. albimarginata to 0.40 for E. fasciatus) for each species. Consequently the growth performance index for these grouper species varied from 2.40 to 3.09. Based on gonad observation, the length at first sexual maturity of females varied between 14 to 18 cm for C. aurantia, E. fasciatus and V. albimarginata, to 32 cm for E. radiatus and 34 cm for V. louti. The corresponding age at first sexual maturity by species ranged from 1.67 to 6.65 years old. Reproduction intensity showed that reproduction peaked for a period of three months each year. Three species (C. aurantia; E. fasciatus and V. louti) reproduced mainly in summer, between December to March, while E. radiatus and V. albimarginata exhibited peak spawning between April and July. The updated biological parameters for these five species are invaluable inputs into the future assessment and management of these important commercial species.
Promoting a culture of sharing the error: A qualitative study in resident physicians' process of coping and learning through self-disclosure after medical error
Authors: Asakawa Mari , Imafuku Rintaro , Kawakami Chihiro , Hayakawa Kaho , Suzuki Yasuyuki , Saiki Takuya
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Most physicians, including residents, experience significant emotional distress after making medical 11 errors. As high reliability organizations (HROs), hospitals must not only support physicians' emotional recovery but also promote their learning from errors. Self-disclosure is a process of communication in which individuals reveal information about themselves to others. While many previous studies have focused on investigating the effectiveness of self-disclosure, little is known about the process itself. Therefore, this study aims to explore residents' processes of coping with their emotional distress and learning through self-disclosure after making errors.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 residents in their second year from two Japanese hospitals where informal error conferences guided by senior residents are implemented regularly. In the interview, four core questions were posed regarding the nature of the error/incident, their emotions and behavior after the error, ways of self-disclosure, and the results of error-sharing in the conference. Interview data were thematically analyzed, drawing upon disclosure decision model as the theoretical framework.

Results

Five phases emerged from the analysis: (1) emotional distress and reactions before self-disclosure; (2) self-disclosure to individuals to achieve social rewards; (3) emotional sublimation after self-disclosure to individuals; (4) sharing errors in groups for learning opportunities; and (5) transforming the perspectives on overcoming and learning from errors.

Conclusion

This is the study to demonstrate that various types of self-disclosure were embedded in the processes of residents' recovery and learning from medical errors. The study suggests that a better understanding of the processes of residents' coping with their distress and learning from their errors through self-disclosure is fundamental to the creation of a “culture of sharing errors” in hospitals as HROs.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Mahonia fortunei extracts and characterization of its inhibitory effect on Chinese cabbage soft rot pathogen
Authors: Wei Zhenlin , Xu Shuoqi , Jia Haoran , Zhang Hongmei
Published: October 2022

The pathogenic bacterium Pectobacterium carotovorum causes soft rot in cabbage and significantly reduces plant yield. In this study, we employed Mhonia fortunei extracts to synthesis silver nanoparticles (Mf-AgNPs) and investigated their functions against P. carotovorum. The results showed that the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak of AgNP was 412 nm under optimal synthesis conditions. Furthermore, the results of Scanning electron microscope-Energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS) and High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) revealed that the Mf-AgNPs had a spherical structure with an average diameter of 13.19 nm and the content of Ag0 ions accounted for 82.68% of the total elemental content. The X-Ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed that AgNPs had a face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure, while Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results indicated the presence of various biomolecules as reducing and stabilizing agents on the AgNP surface. Antibacterial activity was first evaluated by an inhibitory zone test, which revealed that 500 μg ml−1 of AgNPs had antibacterial activity against P. carotovorum and four model bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively with an antibacterial function comparable to 1 mM AgNO3 solution. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values for P. carotovorum were 8 μg ml−1, respectively. Furthermore, AgNPs at 8 μg ml−1 completely inhibited the growth of P. carotovorum, decreased their tolerance to 0.25 mM H2O2 as well as considerably reduced colony formation after 1 h of treatment and thereafter. Treatment with Mf-AgNPs resulted in bacterial cell membrane destruction and biofilm formation inhibition, respectively. With an FIC (fractional inhibitory concentration) index of 0.174, AgNP and zhongshengmycin showed a significant synergistic effect. The infection of P. carotovorum to cabbage explants was significantly inhibited in vitro by a combination of 2 μg ml−1 Mf-AgNP and 5 μg ml−1 zhongshengmycin. In conclusion, the synthesized Mf-AgNP exhibited significant antibacterial activity against P. carotovorum.
Evaluation of application potential of dye-decolorizing peroxidase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens in bioremediation of paper and pulp mill effluent
Authors: Ren Jing , Li Xiaodan , Zhang Weitao , Li Zhuofan , Wang Quan , Li Shuna , Wang Shuxiang , Li Hongya
Published: October 2022

Pulp and paper mill effluent is rich in recalcitrant and toxic pollutants compounds and causes pollution. To find an efficient biocatalyst for the treatment of effluent, a dye-decolorizing peroxidase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MN-13, which is capable of degrading lignin, was used for the bioremediation of paper and pulp mill effluent. The dye-decolorizing peroxidase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (BaDyP) exhibited high-redox potential to 2, 2′-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline- 6-sulfonic acid) ammonium salt (ABTS), veratryl alcohol, Mn2+, reactive blue 19, reactive black 5 and lignin dimer guaiacylglycerol-beta-guaiacyl ether (GGE). When GGE was used as substrate, BaDyP broke β-O-4 bond of GGE and then oxidize Cα to generate vanillin. The Km values for ABTS and veratryl alcohol were 2.19 mm and 0.07 mm, respectively. The Vmax for ABTS and veratryl alcohol were 1.8 mm/min and 14.12 mm/min, respectively. The BaDyP-mediated treatment of pulp and paper mill effluent led to significant reduction of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and color. When 5% (v/v) of effluent was treated with BaDyP for 12 h at 30°C and pH 2, the removal of COD, color, and lignin was achieved at 82.7, 80.2, and 78.20%, respectively. In detoxification assay, the seeds of Vigna unguiculata grown in treated effluent showed a significant increase in germination rate from 66.7% (untreated effluent) to 90%, and in radicle length from 0.68 cm (untreated effluent) to 1.26 cm, respectively. In the meanwhile, the inhibition of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis by the treated effluent reduced significantly as compared to untreated effluent, indicating high detoxification performance of BaDyP for the treatment of pulp and paper mill effluent. The findings suggest that BaDyP is a potential catalyst for bioremediation of pulp and paper mill effluent, as it is effective in substantial lowering of pollutants load as well as reduces COD, color, and toxicity of effluent.
Immuno-dominant dengue NS1 peptides as antigens for production of monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Munasinghe Erandi , Athapaththu Maheshi , Abeyewickreme Wimaladharma
Published: October 2022

Synthetic peptides have recently become common as antigens for antibody production. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can be used to elicit an immune response. The immunogenicity of the peptide antigens varies depending on the length, charge, solubility, and amino acids contained in the peptide sequence. Dengue NS1 protein is an important target antigen in the early detection of dengue infection. In this study, peptides corresponding to a highly conserved region from the dengue NS1 region were designed and synthesized. Balb/C mice were immunized against each peptide and spleen cells extracted from the immunized mice were fused with NS0 murine myeloma cells. Hybridoma clones obtained from the fusions were tested against peptides using ELISA. Out of 1,830 growing clones, 28 clones produced antibodies reacting with dengue NS1 peptides. A purified monoclonal antibody reacting with all four peptides was tested for reactivity with dengue NS1 native protein using dengue-confirmed serum and urine samples. The monoclonal antibody shows significant reactivity with both serum and urine. The findings of the current research can be used to detect dengue infection using urine, which ultimately results in the prevention of dengue epidemics through painless diagnosis, following treatment, and patient management to safeguard human and economic wellness.
Benefits and risks of napping in older adults: A systematic review
Authors: Souabni Maher , Souabni Mehdi J. , Hammouda Omar , Romdhani Mohamed , Trabelsi Khaled , Ammar Achraf , Driss Tarak
Published: October 2022

A growing body of evidence indicates that napping is common among older adults. However, a systematic review on the effect of napping on the elderly is lacking. The aim of this systematic review was to (i) determine how studies evaluated napping behavior in older adults (frequency, duration and timing); (ii) explore how napping impacts perceptual measures, cognitive and psychomotor performance, night-time sleep and physiological parameters in the elderly (PROSPERO CRD42022299805). A total of 738 records were screened by two researchers using the PICOS criteria. Fifteen studies met our inclusion criteria with a mean age ranging from 60.8 to 78.3 years and a cumulative sample size of n = 326. Daytime napping had an overall positive impact on subjective measures (i.e., sleepiness and fatigue), psychomotor performances (i.e., speed and accuracy) and learning abilities (i.e., declarative and motor learning). Additionally, studies showed (i) consistency between nap and control conditions regarding sleep duration, efficiency and latency, and proportion of sleep stages, and (ii) increase of 24 h sleep duration with nap compared to control condition. Based on the findings of the present review, there is minimal evidence to indicate that napping is detrimental for older adults' nighttime sleep. Future studies should consider involving repeated naps during a micro-cycle in order to investigate the chronic effect of napping on older adults.

Systematic review registration

identifier: CRD42022299805.
Localized topical drug delivery systems for skin cancer: Current approaches and future prospects
Authors: Gupta Nimish , Gupta G. D. , Singh Dilpreet
Published: October 2022

Topical drug delivery presents a novel substitute to the conventional drug-distribution routes of oral delivery and injection. Apart from the simplicity and non-invasiveness, the skin also serves as a “reservoir” that sustains administration over a period of days. Nanocarriers provide new potential for the treatment of skin disease. The skin’s barrier function offers a considerable obstacle for the potential nanocarriers to infiltrate into the tissue. However, the barrier is partially weakened in case of damage or inflammation, as in the case of skin cancer. Nanoparticles may promote the penetration of the skin. Extensive research has been done into producing nanoparticles for topical distribution; nevertheless, relatively little progress has been achieved in transferring them to the clinic for treating skin malignancies. The prior art features the critical concepts of skin malignancies and techniques in current clinical care. The present review gives a complete viewpoint of the numerous nanoparticle technologies studied for the topical treatment of skin malignancies and outlines the hurdles that hamper its advancement from the bench to the bedside. The review also intends to give knowledge of the routes that control nanoparticle penetration into the skin and their interactions inside the tissue.
Different observation period of exercise training in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Baohua , Wei Jiajun , Zhang Yanli , Liu Yue , Shan Shuhui , Ye Shan , Li Baohua , Fan Dongsheng , Luo Yongmei
Published: October 2022

Objective

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of more intensive exercise training on the functional ability of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials on exercise training in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and other databases, and meta-analysis was conducted using a fixed effect model or random effect model. Sensitivity analysis was used as a means to study heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 8 randomized controlled trials involving 330 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis were included in this study. The results showed that there was statistical significance in the influence of more intensive exercise training on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Functional Rating Scale in the short term (0–4 months) and the medium term (5–8 months) (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the effect of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised in the short term (0–4 months) or long term (9–12 months) (P ≥ 0.05). In the medium term (5–8 months), there was statistical significance (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in Forced vital capacity (FVC%) in the short term (0–4 months) (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

More intensive exercise training may slow the decline in functional score of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients, and more studies should be carried out in the future to verify the effect of more intensive exercise training in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.