bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive overview of omics-based approaches to enhance biotic and abiotic stress tolerance in sweet potato
Authors: Ahmed Sulaiman , Khan Muhammad Saad Shoaib , Xue Songlei , Islam Faisal , Ikram Aziz Ul , Abdullah Muhammad , Liu Shan , Tappiban Piengtawan , Chen Jian
Published: January 2024

Biotic and abiotic stresses negatively affect the yield and overall plant developmental process, thus causing substantial losses in global sweet potato production. To cope with stresses, sweet potato has evolved numerous strategies to tackle ever-changing surroundings and biological and environmental conditions. The invention of modern sequencing technology and the latest data processing and analysis instruments has paved the way to integrate biological information from different approaches and helps to understand plant system biology more precisely. The advancement in omics technologies has accumulated and provided a great source of information at all levels (genome, transcript, protein, and metabolite) under stressful conditions. These latest molecular tools facilitate us to understand better the plant’s responses to stress signaling and help to process/integrate the biological information encoded within the biological system of plants. This review briefly addresses utilizing the latest omics strategies for deciphering the adaptive mechanisms for sweet potatoes’ biotic and abiotic stress tolerance via functional genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. This information also provides a powerful reference to understand the complex, well-coordinated stress signaling genetic regulatory networks and better comprehend the plant phenotypic responses at the cellular/molecular level under various environmental stimuli, thus accelerating the design of stress-resilient sweet potato via the latest genetic engineering approaches.
Enhanced photosynthetic efficiency by nitrogen-doped carbon dots via plastoquinone-involved electron transfer in apple
Authors: Jing Xiuli , Liu Yankai , Liu Xuzhe , Zhang Yi , Wang Guanzhu , Yang Fei , Zhang Yani , Chang Dayong , Zhang Zhen-Lu , You Chun-Xiang , Zhang Shuai , Wang Xiao-Fei
Published: January 2024

Artificially enhancing photosynthesis is critical for improving crop yields and fruit qualities. Nanomaterials have demonstrated great potential to enhance photosynthetic efficiency; however, the mechanisms underlying their effects are poorly understood. This study revealed that the electron transfer pathway participated in nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs)-induced photosynthetic efficiency enhancement (24.29%), resulting in the improvements of apple fruit qualities (soluble sugar content: 11.43%) in the orchard. We also found that N-CDs alleviated mterf5 mutant-modulated photosystem II (PSII) defects, but not psa3 mutant-modulated photosystem I (PSI) defects, suggesting that the N-CDs-targeting sites were located between PSII and PSI. Measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters suggested that plastoquinone (PQ), the mobile electron carrier in the photosynthesis electron transfer chain (PETC), was the photosynthesis component that N-CDs targeted. In vitro experiments demonstrated that plastoquinone-9 (PQ-9) could accept electrons from light-excited N-CDs to produce the reduced plastoquinone 9 (PQH2-9). These findings suggested that N-CDs, as electron donors, offer a PQ-9-involved complement of PETC to improve photosynthesis and thereby fruit quality. Our study uncovered a mechanism by which nanomaterials enhanced plant photosynthesis and provided some insights that will be useful in the design of efficient nanomaterials for agricultural/horticultural applications.
Two human milk–like synthetic bacterial communities displayed contrasted impacts on barrier and immune responses in an intestinal quadricellular model
Authors: Le Bras Charles , Rault Lucie , Jacquet Nolwenn , Daniel Nathalie , Chuat Victoria , Valence Florence , Bellanger Amandine , Bousarghin Latifa , Blat Sophie , Le Loir Yves , Le Huërou-Luron Isabelle , Even Sergine
Published: January 2024

The human milk (HM) microbiota, a highly diverse microbial ecosystem, is thought to contribute to the health benefits associated with breast-feeding, notably through its impact on infant gut microbiota. Our objective was to further explore the role of HM bacteria on gut homeostasis through a “disassembly/reassembly” strategy. HM strains covering the diversity of HM cultivable microbiota were first characterized individually and then assembled in synthetic bacterial communities (SynComs) using two human cellular models, peripheral blood mononuclear cells and a quadricellular model mimicking intestinal epithelium. Selected HM bacteria displayed a large range of immunomodulatory properties and had variable effects on epithelial barrier, allowing their classification in functional groups. This multispecies characterization of HM bacteria showed no clear association between taxonomy and HM bacteria impacts on epithelial immune and barrier functions, revealing the entirety and complexity of HM bacteria potential. More importantly, the assembly of HM strains into two SynComs of similar taxonomic composition but with strains exhibiting distinct individual properties, resulted in contrasting impacts on the epithelium. These impacts of SynComs partially diverged from the predicted ones based on individual bacteria. Overall, our results indicate that the functional properties of the HM bacterial community rather than the taxonomic composition itself could play a crucial role in intestinal homeostasis of infants.
New light on the HLA-DR immunopeptidomic landscape
Authors: Egholm Bruun Jensen Emilie , Reynisson Birkir , Barra Carolina , Nielsen Morten
Published: January 2024

The set of peptides processed and presented by major histocompatibility complex class II molecules defines the immunopeptidome, and its characterization holds keys to understanding essential properties of the immune system. High-throughput mass spectrometry (MS) techniques enable interrogation of the diversity and complexity of the immunopeptidome at an unprecedented scale. Here, we analyzed a large set of MS immunopeptidomics data from 40 donors, 221 samples, covering 30 unique HLA-DR molecules. We identified likely co-immunoprecipitated HLA-DR irrelevant contaminants using state-of-the-art prediction methods and unveiled novel light on the properties of HLA antigen processing and presentation. The ligandome (HLA binders) was enriched in 15-mer peptides, and the contaminome (nonbinders) in longer peptides. Classification of singletons and nested sets showed that the first were enriched in contaminants. Investigating the source protein location of ligands revealed that only contaminants shared a positional bias. Regarding subcellular localization, nested peptides were found to be predominantly of endolysosomal origin, whereas singletons shared an equal distribution between the cytosolic and endolysosomal origin. According to antigen-processing signatures, no significant differences were observed between the cytosolic and endolysosomal ligands. Further, the sensitivity of MS immunopeptidomics was investigated by analyzing overlap and saturation between biological MS replicas, concluding that at least 5 replicas are needed to identify 80% of the immunopeptidome. Moreover, the overlap in immunopeptidome between donors was found to be very low both in terms of peptides and source proteins, the latter indicating a critical HLA bias in the antigen sampling in the HLA antigen presentation. Finally, the complementarity between MS and in silico approaches for comprehensively sampling the immunopeptidome was demonstrated.
Determining cosmological-model-independent H0 and post-Newtonian parameter with time-delay lenses and supernovae
Authors: Liu Tonghua , Liao Kai
Published: January 2024

Strong gravitational lensing provides a natural opportunity to test general relativity (GR). We propose a model-independent method for simultaneous constraining on Hubble constant (H0) and post-Newtonian parameter (γPPN) using strong lensing systems and observational Type Ia supernovae. The time-delay measurements from strong lensing can directly determine the Hubble constant, and the lens distance inferred from the spectroscopic measurement of the stellar kinematics of the deflector galaxy can help us to constrain the post-Newtonian parameter. We seek the Pantheon data set and reconstruct unanchored distances using Gaussian process regression to achieve the cosmological-model-independent GR testing instead of assuming a specific model, which can reduce possible bias on GR testing and measurement of Hubble constant. Combining the reconstructed unanchored distances and the four H0LiCOW lens data sets, our results are $H_0=72.9^{+2.0}_{-2.3} \, \mathrm{km \, s^{-1} \, Mpc^{-1}}$ and $\gamma _{\rm {PPN}}=0.89^{+0.17}_{-0.15}$. All the lenses show that there is no obvious evidence to support GR deviation within observational uncertainties. In the subsequent analysis, we consider a ratio of distance ${D_{\Delta t}}/{D^{^{\prime }}_{\mathrm{ d}}}$ method to further avoid the influence of H0 on GR testing. The results show that, except J1206 within the ∼1.2σ observational uncertainty, the remaining three lenses support that GR holds within the 1σ observational uncertainties.
Universal insertion of molecules in ionic compounds under pressure
Authors: Peng Feng , Ma Yanming , Pickard Chris J , Liu Hanyu , Miao Maosheng
Published: January 2024

Using first-principles calculations and crystal structure search methods, we found that many covalently bonded molecules such as H2, N2, CO2, NH3, H2O and CH4 may react with NaCl, a prototype ionic solid, and form stable compounds under pressure while retaining their molecular structure. These molecules, despite whether they are homonuclear or heteronuclear, polar or non-polar, small or large, do not show strong chemical interactions with surrounding Na and Cl ions. In contrast, the most stable molecule among all examples, N2, is found to transform into cyclo-N5− anions while reacting with NaCl under high pressures. It provides a new route to synthesize pentazolates, which are promising green energy materials with high energy density. Our work demonstrates a unique and universal hybridization propensity of covalently bonded molecules and solid compounds under pressure. This surprising miscibility suggests possible mixing regions between the molecular and rock layers in the interiors of large planets.
Anthropometric and cardiometabolic effects of polyphenols in people with overweight and obesity: an umbrella review
Authors: Chew Han Shi Jocelyn , Soong Rou Yi , Teo Yu Qing Jolene , Flølo Tone Nygaard , Chong Bryan , Yong Cai Ling , Ang Shi Han , Ho Yishen , Chew Nicholas W S , So Jimmy Bok Yan , Shabbir Asim
Published: January 2024

Context

Polyphenols are plant-based compounds with potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-obesogenic properties. However, their effects on health outcomes remain unclear.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of polyphenols on anthropometric and cardiometabolic markers.

Data Sources

Six electronic databases—namely, EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library (reviews only), and Web of Science—were searched for relevant systematic reviews with meta-analyses (SRMAs).

Data Extraction

Three reviewers performed the data extraction via a data-extraction Microsoft Excel spreadsheet.

Data Analysis

An umbrella review and meta-analysis of existing SRMAs was conducted. Eighteen SRMAs published from 2015 to 2023, representing 445 primary studies and 838 unique effect sizes, were identified. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models with general inverse variance. Polyphenol-containing foods were found to significantly improve weight (-0.36 kg; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.62, 0.77 kg; P < 0.01, I2 = 64.9%), body mass index (−0.25 kg/m2; 95% CI: −0.34, −0.17 kg/m2; P < 0.001, I2 = 82.4%), waist circumference (−0.74 cm; 95% CI: −1.34, −0.15 cm; P < 0.01, I2 = 99.3%), low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (−1.75 mg/dL; 95% CI: −2.56, −0.94; P < 0.001, I2 = 98.6%), total cholesterol (−1.23 mg/dL; 95% CI: −2.00, −0.46; P = 0.002, I2 = 94.6%), systolic blood pressure (−1.77 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.77, −0.93 mmHg; P < 0.001, I2 = 72.4%), diastolic blood pressure (−1.45 mmHg; 95% CI: −2.09, −0.80 mmHg; P < 0.001, I2 = 61.0%), fat percentage (−0.70%; 95% CI: −1.03, −0.36%; P < 0.001, I2 = 52.6%), fasting blood glucose (−0.18 mg/dL; 95% CI: −0.35, −0.01 mg/dL; P = 0.04, I2 = 62.0%), and C-reactive protein (CRP; including high-sensitivity-CRP [hs-CRP]) (−0.2972 mg/dL; 95% CI: −0.52, −0.08 mg/dL; P = 0.01, I2 = 87.9%). No significant changes were found for high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (−0.12 mg/dL; 95% CI: −1.44, 0.69; P = 0.67, I2 = 89.4%) and triglycerides (−1.29 mg/dL; 95% CI: −2.74, 0.16; P = 0.08, I2 = 85.4%). Between-study heterogeneity could be explained by polyphenol subclass differences.

Conclusion

The findings of this umbrella review support the beneficial effects of polyphenols on anthropometric and metabolic markers, but discretion is warranted to determine the clinical significance of the magnitude of the biomarker improvements.

Systematic Review Registration

International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews no. CRD42023420206.
The history of the Milky Way: The evolution of star formation, cosmic rays, metallicity, and stellar dynamics over cosmic time
Authors: Shimoda Jiro , Inutsuka Shu-ichiro , Nagashima Masahiro
Published: January 2024

We study the long-term evolution of the Milky Way (MW) over cosmic time by modeling the star formation, cosmic rays, metallicity, stellar dynamics, outflows, and inflows of the galactic system to obtain various insights into the galactic evolution. The mass accretion is modeled by the results of cosmological N-body simulations for the cold dark matter. We find that the star formation rate is about half the mass accretion rate of the disk, given the consistency between observed Galactic diffuse X-ray emissions (GDXEs) and possible conditions driving the Galactic wind.Our model simultaneously reproduces the quantities of star formation rate, cosmic rays, metals, and the rotation curve of the current MW. The most important predictions of the model are that there is an unidentified accretion flow with a possible number density of ∼10−2 cm−3 and that part of the GDXEs originates from a hot, diffuse plasma which is formed by consuming about $10\%$ of supernova explosion energy. The latter is the science case for future X-ray missions: XRISM, Athena, and so on. We also discuss further implications of our results for the planet formation and observations of external galaxies in terms of multi-messenger astronomy.
The variability of the broad line profiles of SDSS J1430+2303
Authors: Hoshi Atsushi , Yamada Toru , Ohta Kouji
Published: January 2024

It has been argued that SDSS J1430+2303 possesses a supermassive black hole binary that has been predicted to merge within a few months or three years from 2022 January. We have conducted follow-up optical spectroscopic observations of SDSS J1430+2303 with the KOOLS-IFU on the Seimei Telescope in 2022 May, June, and July, and 2023 April. The observed spectrum around Hα shows a central broad component ∼103 km s−1 blueshifted from the narrow Hα line, as well as a broader double-peaked component with a separation of ∼± 5 × 103 km s−1, similar to the spectrum reported in 2022 January. We investigate the variability of the complex broad Hα emission line relative to the continuum over the observation period. The continuum-normalized relative flux of the central broad component shows an increasing trend from 2022 May to July, which is interpreted to be caused by the decrease of the continuum; this is also supported by damping of the X-ray, UV, and optical light curves observed for the same period. From 2022 July to 2023 April, however, the central broad component decreased significantly. For the relative flux of the broader double-peaked component, no significant change appears at any epoch. These results suggest that the complicated broad line profile of SDSS J1430+2303 is generated from at least two distinct regions. While the central broad component originates from a broad-line region, the broader double-peaked component arises in the vicinity of the continuum source.
Mycetoma in Ecuador
Authors: Chandler David J , Escalante Luis , Maldonado Astrid , Tello Sonia , Orellana Shirley , Escalante Edgar
Published: January 2024

Background

Previous studies on the distribution of mycetoma globally have failed to identify Ecuador as an endemic country.

Methods

We present data on 35 cases of mycetoma in Ecuador between 1955 and 2021: 5 cases from our experience and 30 cases from the literature.

Results

Eight cases of eumycetoma (23%) and 27 cases of actinomycetoma (77%) were diagnosed. Most cases originated from the coastal region of Ecuador.

Conclusions

For the first time in an English-language publication, this communication confirms the presence of mycetoma in Ecuador, securing Ecuador's position on the global mycetoma map.
The Alternative Host with the Most: Understanding the Ecology of Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae on Noncarrot Crops in Central Oregon
Authors: Baldino Katelyn D. , Scott Jeness C. , Dung Jeremiah K. S.
Published: January 2024

Bacterial blight of carrot, caused by Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae (Xhc), is an economically important disease in carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus) seed production. The objectives of this study were to determine if Xhc was present on noncarrot crops grown in central Oregon and, if detected, evaluate its ability to colonize alternative hosts. Surveys of three carrot seed fields and adjacent fields of rye (Secale cereale), alfalfa (Medicago sativa), parsley root (Petroselinum crispum var. tuberosum), and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) demonstrated that Xhc was present on noncarrot crops. Greenhouse experiments were conducted to determine the ability of Xhc to colonize crops cultivated in the region. Carrot, alfalfa, curly parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Kentucky bluegrass, mint (Mentha × piperita), parsley root, roughstalk bluegrass (Poa trivialis), and wheat (Triticum aestivum) plants were spray-inoculated with Xhc and destructively sampled at 1, 7, 14, and 28 or 25 days post-inoculation. Xhc populations were quantified using viability quantitative PCR and dilution plating. A significant (P ≤ 0.03) effect of crop was observed at 1, 14, and 28 or 25 days in both experiments. While carrot hosted the most Xhc at the final timepoint, other crops supported epiphytic Xhc populations including wheat and both bluegrasses. Mint, parsley root, and alfalfa hosted the least Xhc. Bacterial blight symptoms were observed on carrots but not on noncarrot crops. This suggests that crops grown in central Oregon have the potential to be asymptomatically colonized by Xhc and may serve as reservoirs of the pathogen in carrot seed production systems.
Oral as compared to intravenous tranexamic acid to limit peri-operative blood loss associated with primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Piette Nicolas , Beck Florian , Carella Michele , Hans Gregory , Maesen Didier , Kurth William , Lecoq Jean-Pierre , Bonhomme Vincent L.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Oral as compared to intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) is an attractive option, in terms of cost and safety, to reduce blood loss and transfusion in total hip arthroplasty. Exclusion criteria applied in the most recent randomised trials may have limited the generalisability of oral tranexamic acid in this indication. Larger and more inclusive studies are needed to definitively establish oral administration as a credible alternative to intravenous administration.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the noninferiority of oral to intravenous TXA at reducing intra-operative and postoperative total blood loss (TBL) in primary posterolateral approached total hip arthroplasty (PLTHA).

DESIGN

Noninferiority, single centre, randomised, double-blind controlled study.

SETTING

Patients scheduled for primary PLTHA. Data acquisition occurred between May 2021 and November 2022 at the University Hospital of Liège, Belgium.

PATIENTS

Two hundred and twenty-eight patients, randomised in a 1 : 1 ratio from a computer-generated list, completed the trial.

INTERVENTIONS

Administration of 2 g of oral TXA 2 h before total hip arthroplasty and 4 h after incision (Group oral) was compared to the intravenous administration of 1 g of TXA 30 min before surgery and 4 h after incision (Group i.v.).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

TBL (measured intra-operative and drainage blood loss up to 48 h after surgery, primary outcome), decrease in haemoglobin concentration, D-Dimer at day 1 and day 3, transfusion rate (secondary outcomes).

RESULTS

Analyses were performed on 108 out of 114 participants (Group i.v.) and 104 out of 114 participants (Group oral). Group oral was noninferior to Group i.v. with regard to TBL, with a difference between medians (95% CI) of 35 ml (-103.77 to 33.77) within the noninferiority margins. Median [IQR] of estimated TBL was 480 ml [350 to 565] and 445 ml [323 to 558], respectively. No significant interaction between group and time was observed regarding the evolution of TBL and haemoglobin over time.

CONCLUSIONS

TXA as an oral premedication before PLTHA is noninferior to its intravenous administration regarding peri-operative TBL.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

European Clinical Trial Register under EudraCT-number 2020-004167-29 (https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2020-004167-29/BE).
Menstrual Irregularities and Amenorrhea in Thyroid Eye Disease Patients Treated With Teprotumumab
Authors: Terrarosa Anna K. , DeMaria Lauren N. , North Victoria S. , Garcia Maria D. , Kim Eleanore T. , Belinsky Irina
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the rates of amenorrhea and menstrual irregularities in patients with active thyroid eye disease treated with teprotumumab.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted of patients with active thyroid eye disease treated between 2020 and 2022 at a single institution. Female thyroid eye disease patients with regular menstruation at baseline who completed 8 infusions of teprotumumab were assessed. Patient-reported irregularities in menstruation or amenorrhea were recorded during routine clinic visits. Two sample t tests were used to assess differences between patients endorsing and denying menstrual irregularities.

Results:

Twelve patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 38.33 ± 9.6 years (range 25–53 years). The average follow-up after treatment completion was 11.43 months. Nine patients (75%) reported changes from their baseline menstruation. Four patients (33.3%) reported irregularities during treatment only. Three patients (25%) had persistence of irregularities after treatment; these patients regained normal cycles at an average of 3 months following teprotumumab completion. Two patients (16.7%) did not regain their normal cycles at the time of their last follow-up. One 53-year-old patient-reported persistent amenorrhea after treatment completion. One patient-reported menorrhagia at a 4-month follow-up. No significant age difference was found between patients with or without reported menstrual changes (p = 0.43).

Conclusion:

Abnormalities of menstruation, including amenorrhea, were reported by 75% of patients treated with teprotumumab. These changes reverted to baseline after treatment in most affected patients.
Radiologic Features of Well-circumscribed Orbital Tumors With Histopathologic Correlation: A Multi-center Study
Authors: Roelofs Kelsey A. , Juniat Valerie , O’Rouke Michael , Ledbetter Luke , Hubschman Sasha , Hardy Thomas , Lee Jean , Baugh Samuel , Pullarkat Sheeja T. , Selva Dinesh , Goldberg Robert A. , Rootman Daniel B.
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To delineate specific imaging characteristics of solitary fibrous tumors, schwannomas, cavernous venous malformations, and well-circumscribed orbital lymphoma.

Methods:

Patients undergoing excisional biopsy of solitary fibrous tumor, schwannomas, cavernous venous malformations, or well-circumscribed orbital lymphoma with preoperative MRIs available for review were identified at 3 academic centers in the United States and Australia. An exploratory statistical analysis was performed to identify important radiologic features, which were subsequently included in a random forest model. Histopathologic correlates were evaluated in representative cases.

Results:

A total of 91 cases were included with a mean age of 52.9 ± 17.2 years. Nearly all solitary fibrous tumors were located in the anterior or mid orbit (87.5%) and they more commonly demonstrated intralesional heterogeneity on T2-weighted imaging (45.5%) (p < 0.01). Compared with the other tumors, schwannomas tended to be intraconal (66.7%) and were often in the mid or posterior orbit (83.4%) (p < 0.01). Cavernous venous malformations characteristically demonstrated progressive contrast enhancement (93.9%; p < 0.01). Most lesions in all 4 groups were hypointense on T1-weighted imaging (80%–100%; p = 0.14) and only well-circumscribed orbital lymphoma tended to also be hypointense on T2 (81.8%) (p < 0.01). Finally, cases of lymphoma had significantly lower apparent diffusion coefficient ratios (0.9 ± 0.2) (p < 0.001), while the other 3 groups were not significantly different from one another (cavernous venous malformations: 1.8 ± 0.4; schwannomas: 1.8 ± 0.5; and solitary fibrous tumor: 1.6 ± 0.6) (p = 0.739).

Conclusions:

Key features that aid in the differentiation of these 4 tumors from one another include T2 intensity and homogeneity, early contrast-enhancement pattern, and ADC ratio.
Global, regional, and national burdens of early onset pancreatic cancer in adolescents and adults aged 15–49 years from 1990 to 2019 based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Zheng , Zhang Xiaojie , Sun Chongyuan , Li Zefeng , Fei He , Zhao Dongbing
Published: January 2024

Background:

Early-onset pancreatic cancer (EOPC) in younger populations (age ≤50 years) is likely to be a more aggressive phenotype characterized by poor differentiation. The emerging analysis of the global burden of EOPC is limited and outdated.

Aim:

To systematically investigate the burden and trend of EOPC based on global populations.

Methods:

In this systematic analysis based on the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2019, the authors present the number of cases, age-standardized rates (ASRs) per 100 000 population, and risk factors for 204 countries and territories. The average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) for the incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) of EOPC were calculated using joinpoint regression analysis.

Results:

According to the GBD 2019 estimates, there were 36 852 new cases of EOPC and 32 004 related deaths. East Asia had the highest number of cases, with 11 401 incidences and 10 149 deaths. The ASRs were 0.94 per 100 000 individuals for incidence and 0.81 per 100 000 for mortality. From 1990 to 2019, the age-standardized incidence increased by 46.9%, mortality increased by 44.6%, and DALYs increased by 41.9% globally. In trend analysis, the global incidence (AAPC, 1.26), mortality (AAPC, 1.24), and DALYs (AAPC, 1.25) of EOPC showed an increasing pattern. The ASRs of incidence, mortality, and DALYs of EOPC in Africa, America, and Asia exhibited a continuous upward trend, while the trend in Europe was fluctuating. Asian males exhibited the fastest growth in incidence (AAPC, 2.15) and mortality (AAPC, 2.13), whereas males in the Americas experienced the slowest increase in new cases (AAPC, 0.72) and deaths (AAPC, 0.67). A certain proportion of EOPC DALYs were attributable to known risk factors: tobacco smoking (13.3%), high BMI, 5.6%, and high fasting plasma glucose 3.2%. Integrating the socio-demographic index (SDI), ASRs of incidence and mortality initially increased with rising SDI, reaching a peak in central Europe (1.5 per 100 000 <ASRs <2.0 per 100 000), and decreased with further increase in SDI in 2019.

Conclusions:

The findings offer valuable insights into the global distribution and magnitude of the EOPC burden. The burden is increasing at a rapid pace worldwide, particularly in Asia, and is notably high in central and eastern Europe. This highlights the need for additional preventive control efforts targeting high-risk populations.
A bibliometric analysis of gastric cancer liver metastases: advances in mechanisms of occurrence and treatment options
Authors: Wang Chenyuan , Zhang Yuzhe , Zhang Ye , Li Baifeng
Published: January 2024

Background:

Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, and its poor prognosis is predominantly attributed to distant metastasis. The liver is the primary site of GC metastasis. However, there is no universally approved treatment regimen for liver metastasis in GC. The aim of this article is to review the current research status and trends of liver metastasis of GC worldwide.

Methods:

The authors utilized the Web of Science Core Collection database to identify articles on liver metastasis from GC published between 2000 and 2022. The authors used bibliometric methods to analyze authors, institutions, countries, journals, and references through CiteSpace and VOSviewer. A total of 1003 articles were included in this study.

Results:

Japan published the most articles in the field, followed by China. Nagoya University is the leading institution in the field of liver metastases in GC. Yasuhiro Kodera from Japan has made significant achievements in this area. The authors identified GC to be the most influential journal in this field. Using cluster analysis, the keywords were divided into four major clusters:(1) the molecular mechanism of GC liver metastasis, (2) prognosis, (3) liver resection, and (4) chemotherapy.

Conclusion:

Our study systematically summarizes the results of GC liver metastasis research from 2000 to 2022 and describes and predicts research hotspots and trends on a global scale. Research on the molecular mechanisms of GC liver metastasis will become a hot topic in the future, and the expansion of the surgical treatment scope and the advancement of translational therapy will benefit more patients.
The emergence and implications of SARS-CoV-2 omicron subvariant BA.2.86 on global health
Authors: Satapathy Prakasini , Kumar Pawan , Gupta Jeetendra K. , Rabaan Ali A. , Al Kaabi Nawal A. , Mohanty Dibyalochan , Naveen Pathakala , Khatib Mahalaqua Nazli , Gaidhane Shilpa , Zahiruddin Quazi Syed , Neyazi Ahmad
Published: January 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 subvariant BA.2.86 ‘Pirola’, first identified in Denmark in August 2023, has manifested with a significantly mutated spike protein profile, suggesting a heightened ability to evade vaccine-induced and infection-induced antibodies. This article outlines the epidemiological spread, immune response implications, and global responses to BA.2.86. Preliminary observations indicate community transmissions of the subvariant, even among those previously infected or vaccinated. Notably, the BA.2.86 infection has shown a potential to amplify antibody responses. The variant’s emergence has evoked memories of the Omicron variant’s rise in late 2021, though global immunity levels might modulate the impact of BA.2.86 impact differently. Continuous genomic surveillance, coupled with integrated diagnostic and epidemiological strategies, proves crucial in early detection and management. The emergence of BA.2.86 reaffirms the unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for ongoing research, adaptability, and global collaboration.
Worldwide productivity and research trend of publications concerning intestinal polyps: A bibliometric study
Authors: Si Sha , Shou Letian , Gao Qi , Qin Wenyan , Zhao Dan
Published: January 2024

There is a significant relationship between intestinal polyps and colorectal cancer, and in recent years, research on intestinal polyps has been rapidly developing around the world. However, there is still a lack of adequate quantification and analysis of publications in this field. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of publications related to intestinal polyps over the past 20 years. To enhance the understanding of current research hotspots and potential trends, and to point out the direction of future research. Publications related to intestinal polyps were retrieved from the Science Citation Index Expanded in Web of Science Core Collection. the Bibliometric online analysis platform (https://bibliometric.com/app), the Bibliometrix Package, and the CiteSpace are used for bibliometric analysis and visualization, including the overall range of annual output and annual citations, country-region analysis, author and institution analysis, core journal analysis, reference and keyword analysis. Prior to 2017, the amount of research on intestinal polyps was slow to grow, but it picked up speed after that year. In 1019 journals, 4280 papers on intestinal polyps were published in English. The journal with the highest productivity was Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (189, 4.42%). United States (1124, 26.26%), which is also the hub of collaboration in this subject, was the most productive nation. Mayo Clinic (n = 70, 1.64%) is the most productive institution. Intestinal microbiota, endoscopic mucosal resection, gut microbiota, deep learning, tea polyphenol, insulin resistance and artificial intelligence were current hot subjects in the field. Studies of intestinal polyps increased significantly after 2017. The United States contributed the largest number of publications. Countries and institutions were actively cooperating with one another. artificial intelligence is currently an emerging topic.
Comparison of the incidence of inadvertent perioperative hypothermia between general anesthesia and interscalene brachial plexus block in shoulder arthroscopy: A randomized prospective study
Authors: Heo Hyunjoo , Kim Yu Yil , Lee Ji Hye , Kim Gwanbeom , Kwon Dohun
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Inadvertent perioperative hypothermia (IPH), defined as core body temperature below 36°C, is associated with various complications. Shoulder arthroscopy is a risk factor of IPH. This study aimed to compare the incidence of IPH between general anesthesia (GA) and interscalene brachial plexus block (ISBPB) for shoulder arthroscopy.

Method:

Patients scheduled for shoulder arthroscopy were prospectively enrolled and randomly assigned to GA or ISBPB groups. The body temperature of the patients was measured from baseline to the end of anesthesia and in the post-anesthetic care unit to compare the incidence of IPH.

Results:

Of the 114 patients initially identified, 80 were included in the study (GA = 40, ISBPB = 40). The incidence of IPH differed significantly between the groups, with GA at 52.5% and ISBPB at 30.0% (P = .04). Profound IPH (defined as < 35.0°C) occurred in 2 patients with GA. Upon arrival at the post-anesthesia care unit, the GA group exhibited a significantly lower mean body temperature (35.9 ± 0.6°C) than the ISBPB group (36.1 ± 0.2°C, P = .04).

Conclusion:

The incidence of IPH in the GA group was higher than that in the ISBPB group during shoulder arthroscopy, suggesting that ISBPB may be a preferable anesthetic technique for reducing risk of IPH in such procedures.
Causal association between rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy loss and intrauterine growth retardation: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Guo Danyang , Diao Zhihao , Wang Kehua , Pang Conghui
Published: January 2024

Objective:

To investigate the causal relationship between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and pregnancy loss and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) using Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods:

Genetic variants associated with RA (12,555 cases and 240,862 controls), miscarriage (1475 cases and 149,622 controls), and IUGR (3558 cases and 207,312 controls) were obtained from the FinnGen consortium, and supplementary data on RA (5201 cases and 457,732 controls) and miscarriage (7069 cases and 250,492 controls) were obtained from the Medical Research Council Integrated Epidemiology Unit (MRC-IEU). 47 Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with RA were screened as instrumental variables (IV). The causal relationship between RA and pregnancy loss and IUGR were assessed by 5 MR methods, mainly inverse variance weighting (IVW). Sensitivity analyses were also performed to test the stability of the results.

Results:

Bidirectional MR showed that genetically predicted RA was causally associated with pregnancy loss and IUGR in forward MR analyses, and that RA significantly increased pregnancy loss [odds ratio (OR) = 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00–1.33, P = .03] and IUGR (OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.01–1.15, P = .019). In the reverse MR, there was no causal association between pregnancy loss (P = .15) and IUGR (P = .87) and RA.

Conclusion:

This study found a significant genetic association between RA and pregnancy loss and IUGR. RA is considered to be a high-risk factor for adverse maternal outcomes. Pre-pregnancy prophylaxis and intra-pregnancy control of patients should be emphasized to reduce the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pregnancy loss and IUGR.
An assessment of the immune status of some stone quarry workers in Ondo state, Nigeria
Authors: Onemu Samson O. , Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Popoola Adeniyi Adewumi , Osuntuyi Michael A. , Isibor Clement N.
Published: January 2024

Stone quarry activities in Nigeria are mostly unregulated such that the workers in these quarries are continuously exposed to the inhalation of silica dust. It has been observed that silica dust particles negatively impact the health of stone quarry workers which usually manifest as respiratory difficulties, asthma-like illnesses and other adventitious events of the lungs. The study was designed to evaluate the probable immunological impact of silica dust inhalation from stone crushing by workers. Blood samples were collected from consenting workers and analyzed for total white blood cells and their subsets. Absolute CD4 cells numbers were also determined. The results indicated that neutrophils and eosinophils numbers increased significantly (P < .05) and CD4 counts declined significantly (P < .001). Alteration in these proportions is a pointer to the injurious impact of silica dust on the immune system of these workers. The findings in this study should spur actions in the education of these workers on the need for the use of proper personal protection equipment and the establishment of a scheme to periodically carry out a health assessment check to identity those at most risk of developing chronic illnesses.
Diagnostic value of [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT in malignant melanoma: a pilot study
Authors: Manafi-Farid Reyhaneh , Mahini Marjan , Mirshahvalad Seyed Ali , Fallahi Babak , Fard-Esfahani Armaghan , Emami-Ardekani Alireza , Eftekhari Mohammad , Mousavi Seied Asadollah , Beiki Davood
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic value of [68Ga] Ga-Pentixafor in malignant melanoma patients.

Methods

In this prospective study, patients with histology-proven melanoma were included and underwent [18F]fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) and [68Ga] Ga-Pentixafor PET/computed tomography (CT) within a week. Suspicious lesions were interpreted as benign vs. malignant, and the corresponding semi-quantitative PET/CT parameters were recorded and compared.

Results

Twelve consecutive melanoma patients (mean age: 60 ± 6) were included. Two patients were referred for initial staging, two for detecting recurrence and eight for evaluating the extent of metastases. Overall, [18F]FDG PET/CT showed 236 tumoral lesions, including two primary tumors, two recurrent lesions, 29 locoregional metastases and 203 distant metastases. In [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT, 101 tumoral lesions were detected, including two primary tumors, one recurrence, 16 locoregional metastases and 82 distant metastases. Notably, a documented brain metastasis was only visualized on [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT images. Compared with [18F]FDG, [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT provided a 42% detection rate. Regarding semi-quantitative measures, the intensity of uptake and tumor-to-background ratios were significantly lower on [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT [average maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax) of 2.72 ± 1.33 vs. 11.41 ± 14.79; P value <0.001 and 1.17 ± 0.53 vs. 5.32 ± 7.34; P value <0.001, respectively].

Conclusion

When comparing [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT with [18F]FDG PET/CT, not only did [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT detect fewer lesions, but the intensity of uptake and the TBRs were also lower on [68Ga]Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT. Thus, our results may indicate a limited potential of this novel tracer in cutaneous melanoma patients compared to [18F]FDG PET/CT. Given the lower TBRs, applying this radiotracer in radioligand therapies is also questionable.
The National Association of Medical Examiners Position Paper on the Investigation and Certification of Pediatric Deaths From Environmental Neglect
Authors: Gill James R. , Christensen Erik , Dennison Emily H. , Ely Susan F. , Gilson Thomas , Keyes Kelly , Lear Kelly , Lucas Jonathan , Mahar Tara J. , Quinton Reade
Published: January 2024

Pediatric deaths that occur because of environmental neglect often involve 4 common scenarios: (1) hyperthermia due to environmental exposure, (2) ingestion of an accessible drug or poison, (3) unwitnessed/unsupervised drownings, and (4) unsafe sleep practices. Given the same fact pattern, the manner of death will vary from accident to homicide to undetermined based on local custom and/or the certifier's training and experience. Medical examiner/coroner death certifications are administrative public health determinations made for vital statistical purposes. Because the manner of death is an opinion, it is understandable that manner determinations may vary among practitioners. No prosecutor, judge, or jury is bound by the opinions expressed on the death certificate. This position paper does not dictate how these deaths should be certified. Rather, it describes the challenges of the investigations and manner determinations in these deaths. It provides specific criteria that may improve consistency of certification. Because pediatric deaths often are of public interest, this paper provides the medical examiner/coroner with a professional overview of such manner determination issues to assist various stakeholders in understanding these challenges and variations.
The impact of HIV preexposure prophylaxis on bacterial sexually transmitted infection occurrence in MSM: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Georgiadis Nikolaos , Papamichail Dimitrios , Lytras Theodore , Halkitis Perry N. , Tzanakaki Georgina , Kornarou Eleni , Vassilakou Nair-Tonia , Sergentanis Theodoros N.
Published: January 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) initiation on bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) occurrence (overall; chlamydia; gonorrhea; syphilis), in MSM.

Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

Systematic searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus without language restrictions until 1 February 2023. We sought studies reporting data for the estimation of incidence rate ratios (IRR), prevalence ratios or cumulative incidence ratios (the latter in equal time periods before and after PrEP initiation) regarding bacterial STI occurrence. Separate analyses were performed overall for any STI, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea (overall; rectal; urethral; pharyngeal for the two latter conditions); ratios greater than unity denoted increase in STI occurrence after PrEP initiation.

Results:

Twenty-three eligible studies with 11 776 participants (age range: 18–71 years) with a median follow-up of 12 months were included. Overall, PrEP initiation was associated with a significant increase in the occurrence of any STI (pooled effect size: 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04–1.26), any gonorrhea (pooled effect size: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.02–1.34), any chlamydia (pooled effect size: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.09–1.58) and rectal chlamydia (pooled effect size: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.05–1.64), whereas a borderline increase was found in urethral chlamydia (pooled effect size: 1.25, 95% CI: 0.99–1.60, P = 0.064). Changes in pharyngeal chlamydia and site-specific gonorrhea occurrence did not reach statistical significance. Syphilis showed virtually no change after PrEP initiation (pooled effect size: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.72–1.37).

Conclusion:

These results highlight the need for more comprehensive, accessible STI testing to tackle bacterial STI infections in PrEP users.
Brief Report: In cART-Treated HIV-Infected Patients, Immunologic Failure Is Associated With a High Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Frequency
Authors: Grassi Germana , Notari Stefania , Cicalini Stefania , Casetti Rita , Cimini Eleonora , Bordoni Veronica , Gagliardini Roberta , Mazzotta Valentina , Antinori Andrea , Agrati Chiara , Sacchi Alessandra
Published: January 2024

Background:

During HIV infection, effective combined antiretroviral therapy suppresses viral replication and restores the number of circulating CD4+ T cells. However, 15%–30% of treated patients show a discordant response to combined antiretroviral therapy. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are expanded in HIV+ patients; to better understand the role of MDSC on CD4 T-cell recovery, we evaluated the frequency of MDSC in HIV+ patients under combined antiretroviral therapy and its association with immunologic response.

Methods:

We enrolled 60 HIV+ patients, including complete responders (R, n = 44), virologic nonresponders (VNR, n = 5), and immunologic nonresponders (INR, n = 11). The frequency of circulating MDSC and the percentage of activated and naïve CD4 T cells were evaluated by flow cytometry. Plasmatic cytokine levels were analyzed by automated ELISA.

Results:

As previously observed, polymorphonuclear MDSC (PMN-MDSC) frequency was higher in HIV+ patients compared with healthy donors. Furthermore, PMN-MDSC percentage was higher in INR than R patients, and a significant association between MDSC frequency and immunologic failure was confirmed by a receiver operator characteristic analysis. Accordingly, an inverse correlation was found between the percentages of PMN-MDSC and naïve CD4 T cells. A positive correlation was observed between PMN-MDSC frequency and the percentage of human leucocyte antigen locus DR + CD4 T cells and the plasmatic level of IL-1β and IL-8.

Conclusion:

Our results show that a high frequency of PMN-MDSC persists in INR, possibly because of immune activation, contributing to CD4 T-cell recovery failure. These findings further highlight the detrimental role of MDSC during HIV infection, suggesting these cells as a possible new therapeutic target.