bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insight into the metabolic pathways of Paracoccus sp. strain DMF: a non-marine halotolerant methylotroph capable of degrading aliphatic amines/ amides
Authors: Arya Chetan Kumar , Maurya Shiwangi , Ramanathan Gurunath
Published: June 2023

Paracoccus sp. strain DMF (P. DMF from henceforth) is a gram-negative heterotroph known to tolerate and utilize high concentrations of N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF). The work presented here elaborates on the metabolic pathways involved in the degradation of C1 compounds, many of which are well-known pollutants and toxic to the environment. Investigations on microbial growth and detection of metabolic intermediates corroborate the outcome of the functional genome analysis. Several classes of C1 compounds, such as methanol, methylated amines, aliphatic amides, and naturally occurring quaternary amines like glycine betaine, were tested as growth substrates. The detailed growth and kinetic parameter analyses reveal that P. DMF can efficiently aerobically degrade trimethylamine (TMA) and grow on quaternary amines such as glycine betaine. The results show that the mechanism for halotolerant adaptation in the presence of glycine betaine is dissimilar from those observed for conventional trehalose-mediated halotolerance in heterotrophic bacteria. In addition, a close genomic survey revealed the presence of a Co(I)-based substrate-specific corrinoid methyltransferase operon, referred to as mtgBC. This demethylation system has been associated with glycine betaine catabolism in anaerobic methanogens and is unknown in denitrifying aerobic heterotrophs. This report on an anoxic-specific demethylation system in an aerobic heterotroph is unique. Our finding exposes the metabolic potential for the degradation of a variety of C1 compounds by P. DMF, making it a novel organism of choice for remediating a wide range of possible environmental contaminants.
Proteolysis coupled with membrane separation for the isolation of bioactive peptides from defatted smooth hound byproduct proteins
Authors: Abdelhedi Ola , Mora Leticia , Jr Mourad , Toldra Fidel , Nasri Moncef
Published: June 2023

The defatted viscera from smooth hound were the raw material used to produce four protein hydrolysates using three different microbial proteases (Neutrase, Esperase and Purafect) and the endogenous enzymes, named VPH-N, VPH-E, VPH-P and VPH-EE, respectively. Hydrolysates showed different degrees of hydrolysis (DH) depending on the enzyme used, where the VPH-P had the highest DH (30%). The amino acids (AA) characterization showed that Gly was the prominent AA (≥22%), followed by Ala, Glx, Lys, Asx, and Pro. In addition, the assessment of the antioxidant, ACE-inhibitory and antimicrobial activities revealed the high potentiality of the Purafect-hydrolysate. Therefore, it was selected to be fractionated by ultra-filtration according to their molecular weight (MW). Data showed that FIV (MW˂5 kDa) exhibited the best antioxidant activities. The differences detected in the bio-activities may be attributed, not only to the peptides size, but also to their sequences and hydrophobic AA contents. The antibacterial activity showed that the best inhibition values were recorded with FIV, particularly against S. typhi. Thus, the present results demonstrated the high potential of FIV from the VPH-P to be used a promising natural source of bioactive peptides in functional food formulations.
mRNA vaccine encoding Gn Provides Protection Against Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus in mice
Authors: Nam Jae-Hwan , Kim Jae-Yong , Lee Soo-Yeon , Choi Eun-Jin , Jeon Kyeongseok , Park Sang-In , Park Hyeong-Jun , Kwak Hye Won , Kim Do-Hyung , Bang Yoo-Jin , Cho Nam-Hyuk
Published: June 2023

We developed a promising mRNA vaccine against Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), an infectious disease caused by the SFTS virus that is primarily transmitted through tick bites. Administration of lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA-Gn successfully induced neutralizing antibodies and T-cell responses in mice. The vaccinated mice were completely protected against a lethal SFTS virus challenge, suggesting that this mRNA vaccine may be an effective candidate for a successful SFTS vaccine.
Real-data-driven Real-time Reconfigurable Microwave Reflective Surface
Authors: Wen Erda , Yang Xiaozhen , Sievenpiper Daniel
Published: June 2023

Manipulating the electromagnetic (EM) scattering behavior from an arbitrary surface dynamically on arbitrary design goals is an ultimate ambition for many EM stealth and communication problems, yet it is nearly impossible to accomplish with conventional analysis and optimization techniques. Here we present a reconfigurable conformal metasurface prototype as well as a workflow that enables it to respond to multiple design targets on the reflection pattern with extremely low on-site computing power and time. The metasurface is driven by a sequential tandem neural network which is pre-trained using actual experimental data, avoiding any possible errors that may arise from calculation, simulation or manufacturing tolerances. This platform empowers the surface to operate accurately in a complex environment including varying incident angle and operating frequency, or even with other scatterers present close to the surface. The proposed data-driven approach requires minimum amount of prior knowledge and human effort yet provides maximized versatility on the reflection control, stepping towards the end form of intelligent tunable EM surfaces.
Inflammatory Macrophages Lysate-based Macroporous Hydrogel for Effective Immunomodulation to Inhibit Tumor Progression, Recurrence and Metastasis
Authors: Li Wanyu , Wang Dan , Cao Tianshou , Chen Yanan , Wang Jilong , Lin Chihao , Yang Huiling , Lin Jiantao , Deng Junjie
Published: June 2023

Background
Pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages possess the ability to change immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by releasing various inflammatory factors simultaneously, which can effectively inhibit tumor progression and relapse. However, the risk of cytokines storm caused by the proliferation and excessive activation of M1 macrophages greatly limits it as a biosafety therapeutic strategy in anti-tumor immunotherapy. Therefore, how to engineer natural M1 macrophage to biocompatible biomaterial that maintains the duration time of tumor suppressive property duration time still remains a huge challenge.
Methods
Here, we sought to develop an injectable macroporous hydrogel (M1LMH) and a small amount of oxaliplatin (OXA) was encapsulated into M1LMH to improve the efficiency of anti-tumor immunotherapy.
Results
M1MLH-100 had excellent biocompatibility for normal cells and tumor cells, but it could repolarize anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages to pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages via NF-κB and P38/MAPK pathway, thus promoting tumor cells death. M1LMH-100 also could improve the immunogenicity of tumor cells, induce the maturation of BMDCs, and active specific cytotoxicity T cells through the synergistic effect of released inflammatory factors simultaneously. Furthermore, OXA+M1LMH-100 could rapidly release OXA to induce ICD to increase the tumor antigens. OXA+M1LMH-100 could remodel immune microenvironment, thus inhibiting tumor growth, recurrence, and metastasis.
Conclusions
We expect our findings will be an effective and safe tool to activate tumor-associated immune cells in a spatiotemporal manner, improving the efficiency of anti-tumor immunotherapy.
Ocular Biomarkers: Useful Incidental Findings by Deep Learning Algorithms in Retinal Photographs
Authors: Martin Eve , Cook Angus , Frost Shaun , Turner Angus , Chen Fred , McAllister Ian , Nolde Janis , Schlaich Markus
Published: June 2023

Background/Objectives:
Ocular biomarkers can provide immediate and non-invasive indications of ocular and systemic health but are underutilised due to the paucity and inequitable distribution of eyecare professionals. Deep learning analysis of colour fundus photographs has task shifting potential to efficiently differentiate ocular biomarkers, as well as providing earlier diagnosis, additional reach via telehealth, and ultimately improving population health. The study aimed to explore the clinical implications arising from deep learning detection of non-target retinal biomarkers in colour fundus photographs.
Subjects/Methods:
Patients referred for treatment-resistant hypertension were imaged between 2016 and 2022 at a specialty clinic in Perth, Australia. The same 45° colour retinal photograph selected for each of the 433 participants imaged was processed by three deep learning algorithms. All positive results for diabetic retinopathy in non-diabetic participants were graded by two expert retinal specialists.
Results:
A total of 29 non-diabetic participants were flagged as positive for diabetic retinopathy by deep learning algorithms. Of these, 28 (96.6%) had clinically significant non-target retinal pathology likely to benefit from early intervention. The algorithms with more target diseases captured less incidental disease. All three algorithms demonstrated a correlation between false positive diabetic retinopathy results and severity of hypertensive retinopathy.
Conclusions:
The findings indicate that existing deep learning models can identify additional pathologies likely to benefit from early intervention within an at-risk, hypertensive cohort, and have potential for immediate clinical application in other populations. The findings also support a pivotal pathway toward autonomous comprehensive screening.
Genomic characterization of Serratia liquefaciens TN503 with the ability to promote growth and mitigate salt stress in tomatoes
Authors: Cuervo Laura , Alvarez Jeimmy Johanna , Baquero Angela , Boyacá Vivian , Alvarez Juan Camilo , Vanegas Javier
Published: June 2023

Salinity is an abiotic factor of soil degradation that limits the development of plants and reduces agricultural competitiveness. Our purpose was to evaluate the effect of four rhizobacteria (TN503, TN106, TN333 y TN26) on growth and mitigation of abiotic stress in tomato. For this, initially the production of indole-3-acetic acid, (IAA), and phosphate solubilization by the bacteria were determined. The saline stress mitigation test was evaluated in tomato variety Rio Grande exposed to 100 and 200 mM NaCl. The rhizobacteria with the best response to stress conditions and growth promotion were selected for genomic analysis, and the genotypic identification of rhizobacteria was performed by the 16S ribosomal RNA. The rhizobacteria were identified as Serratia liquefaciens (TN503), Serratia plymuthica (TN106), Serratia sp (TN333) and Enterobacter sp (TN26). Plant inoculation showed that TN106 and TN503 rhizobacteria promoted tomato growth by up to 61.6% compared to the control without inoculum. The total dry weight of the plant was favored by the TN503 strain with an increase of 68.9 and 37.64% at 100 and 200 mM NaCl respectively, compared to the control. On the other hand, all strains produced indoles (0.50 to 4.44 µg ml− 1) and solubilized phosphate (32.03 to 35.5 mg ml− 1). Genomic analysis shows that TN503 could colonize tomato rhizosphere, promote plant growth and mitigate salt stress through genes associated with biofilm formation, siderophores, IAA, solubilization of phosphate, osmolytes and antioxidant, among others. The inoculation of PGPR in tomato crops represents a biotechnological alternative for sustainable agriculture, minimizing the use of agrochemicals.
Chromosomally integrated HHV-6 in an asymptomatic neonate. A rare entity with unknown clinical significance at present
Authors: Syridou Garyfallia , Mavridi Artemis , Kapsabeli Eleni , Siafakas Nikolaos , Spanakis Nicholaos , Sourvinos George , Papaevangelou Vassiliki
Published: June 2023

Chromosomally integrated HHV-6 (ciHHV-6) is a rare condition where HHV-6 genome is integrated into human chromosomes and transmitted to the offspring in a Mendelian manner. We report the first case in Greece of ciHHV-6 in an asymptomatic neonate.
A full-term male neonate was tested for probable congenital toxoplasmosis due to perinatal maternal serology. While investigation did not reveal anything pathological, film array in CSF turned unexpectedly positive for HHV-6 DNA. PCR in plasma and whole blood were also positive (2,530 cp/ml and 2,200,000 cp/ml respectively) for HHV-6 A and high viral loads persisted despite treatment with ganciclovir. We also performed HHV-6 PCR in neonatal hair follicles with negative results and transcription analysis for the detection of HHV-6 U86, U95 and U90 genes expression in whole blood which turned negative, suggestive of a non-replicating virus, while neonatal serology was indicating vertical transmission. High HHV-6 loads were additionally found in healthy mother and brother.
Diagnosis of ciHHV-6 is based on high viral load (> 500,000 cp/ml), in contrast to lower DNA copies found in latent, recurrent or even primary infections. PCR in hair follicles and nails is helpful but not essential. Since ciHHV-6 is not commonly diagnosed especially in immunocompetent paediatric patients, we think that it is important to get familiar with this rare entity, in order to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment, while long term follow up might be needed.
Preparation of PDMS STEM gels through Oxygen Tolerance Nitroxide Mediated Polymerization
Authors: Qiao Xiaoguang , Dong Xin , Shi Ge , He Yanjie , Pang Xinchang
Published: June 2023

The postsynthesis polymeric modifications by grafting from the active sites was the primary focus of the structurally tailored and engineered macromolecular (STEM) gels. Therefore, Reversible-deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP) techniques have been employed to more precisely tailor and tune STEM gels. In contrast to atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT), nitroxide-mediated polymerization (NMP) is known to have the advantages of simple components and pure products. Here we report the preparation of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite gel networks through oxygen tolerance NMP process, with tert-Butyl acrylate (tBA) and fluorinated monomer 2-(Perfluorooctyl)ethyl methacrylate (FMA) as functional comonomers. Compared with conventional radical polymerization (CFRP) method, composite gels prepared through NMP method showed higher swelling rate and elongation at break, which proved that the network structure formed by NMP was more uniform. In addition to better thermal stability and toughness, the dormant polymer chain could be reactivated and lead to the “living” post-modification of PDMS gel matrix, as well as the additive repairing.
A Comparative Study of Ultrasound Cycloplasty and Endoscopic Cyclophotocoagulation in the Treatment of Secondary Glaucoma
Authors: Ruixue Wang , Wenjun Ding , Le Jiang , Fangfang Fan , Ning Li , Xiaoya Chen , Suyan Li
Published: June 2023

Purpose
To compare the clinical efficacy of ultrasound cycloplasty (UCP) and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) in the treatment of secondary glaucoma.
Methods
A 12-month prospective single-center study included 23 patients with secondary glaucoma treated by high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and 20 patients with secondary glaucoma treated by a semiconductor laser. The primary outcome was evaluated by the surgical success at the last follow-up of the two groups (complete success constituted an intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction of ≥ 20% from the baseline and an IOP of > 5 mmHg and ≤ 21 mmHg, while qualified success was defined as an IOP reduction of ≥ 20% from the baseline and an IOP of > 5 mmHg). The secondary outcome was the average IOP, number of drugs, and complications at each follow-up compared with the baseline.
Results
The average preoperative IOPs in the UCP and ECP groups were 36.4 ± 9.5 mmHg (n = 2.3 drops, n = 0.2 tablets) and 34.5 ± 11.7 mmHg (n = 2.0 drops, n = 0.3 tablets), respectively. In the last follow-up, the success rate of UCP was 54% (with a decrease of 32%), and that of ECP was 65% (with a decrease of 35%), and the P-value between the two groups was > 0.05. However, there was a difference in the average IOP between the two groups one day and one week after the operation, and the effect of lowering IOP in the ECP group was better. However, the amount of drug use after the operation was significantly reduced. There were fewer postoperative complications in the UCP group (18 cases) than in the ECP group (35 cases).
Conclusion
Both UCP and ECP can effectively reduce IOP in secondary glaucoma, and ECP has a better effect in the early stages. However, UCP is safer and more tolerated.
Effects of Integrated Soil Fertility Management Practices on Soil Properties under Wheat and Faba Bean Production in Dire and Legedadi Watersheds of Ethiopia
Authors: Habtamu Meseret , Elias Eyasu , Argaw Mekuria
Published: June 2023

Purpose Soil degradation and nutrient depletion have gradually increased and become serious threats to agricultural productivity in Ethiopia. This research aims to assess the effects of selected integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) practices on soil properties in Dire and Legedadi watersheds, central highlands of Ethiopia. Knowing how ISFM practices affect soil quality indicators will enable us to take the appropriate measure to improve sustainable crop yield while reducing the ongoing soil degradation. Methods A field experiment of eight treatments under a randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted in the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons. Selected soil physicochemical properties were determined following the standard protocols. Soil organic carbon (SOC) stock, Nitrogen (N) stock and carbon sequestration (t ha− 1) were calculated according to Donvan’s equation. Results Analysis of variance showed that soil samples collected from each plot indicated significant differences in soil organic carbon, total Nitrogen (TN), available phosphorus (Pav), exchangeable bases (Ca2+, Na+, and Kexc) and Cation exchange capacity (CEC). Soil pH and moisture showed improvement compared to the pre-planting soil sample. Combined application of vermicompost (VC), NPS + Urea fertilizers significantly (p < 0.05) increased SOC, Pav, Kexc, Na+, and CEC. The highest TN content (0.36% and 0.30%) in Dire and Legedadi sites, respectively, water holding capacity and soil carbon stock were obtained in 100% VC rate added treatment. Similarly, the wheat-faba bean intercropped plot showed a significant (p < 0.05) effect on soil carbon stock and sequestration over the control in both study sites. Conclusions Integrated application of VC and NPS + urea fertilizers improved soil quality. From results of the current experiment for two years, it can be concluded that integrated application of 50% VC with 50% NPS + urea fertilizer improved most physicochemical properties soil of Luvisol and Vertisol in Dire and Legedadi sites, respectively. This implies that the combined application of VC and NPS + urea fertilizers helps farmers to reduce the use of inorganic fertilizer requirement by 50%.
Novel Disulfide Functionalized Nitrogen-rich Covalent Organic Polymer for Efficient and Recylable Adsorption of Au(III)
Authors: Peng Lin-Ling , Zhou Wei-Fang , Chen Min , Li Li-Jun , Liu Yu , Zhou Cong-Shan , Xie Jun , Tang Kewen
Published: June 2023

Covalent organic polymers (COPs), as a new type of porous materials, is suitable for selective adsorption and recovery of various metal ions due to its stable skeleton structure, abundant surface functional groups, diverse structure, and large adsorption capacity. According to the acid-base theory, since the unbound lone pair electrons on the S or N atoms are able to form coordination bonds with metal ions, gold ion can form stable metal complexes with negatively charged ligands containing S or N atoms, and thus can be captured from aqueous solutions through coordination and electrostatic interaction. Herein, a novel disulfide functionalized nitrogen-rich covalent organic polymer (S-COP) was synthesized for efficient Au(III) adsorption from aqueous solution. The adsorption equilibrium of the adsorbent could be achieved within 5 h, and the as-synthesized S-COP exhibits an exceedingly high Au(III) uptake capacity of 1506 mg·g− 1. Furthermore, S-COP has satisfactory selectivity and reusability, which is a highlight of adsorption materials.
Survival analysis of patients with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A nomogram for clinical and MRI features
Authors: Zeng Yan Yan , Wang Xiao Yong , Wu Jiao Jiao , Wang Li Min , Shi Feng , Shu Jian
Published: June 2023

Background
This study aimed to establish a predictive model to estimate the postoperative prognosis of patients with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECC) based on preoperative clinical and MRI features.
Methods
A total of 104 patients with ECC confirmed by surgery and pathology were enrolled from January 2013 to July 2021, whose preoperative clinical, laboratory, and MRI data were retrospectively collected and examined, and the effects of clinical and imaging characteristics on overall survival (OS) were analyzed by constructing Cox proportional hazard regression models. A nomogram was constructed to predict OS, and calibration curves and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were employed to assess OS accuracy.
Results
Multivariate regression analyses revealed that gender, DBIL, ALT, GGT, tumor size, lesion’s position, the signal intensity ratio of liver to paraspinal muscle (SIRLiver/Muscle), and the signal intensity ratio of spleen to paraspinal muscle (SIRSpleen/Muscle) on T2WI sequences were significantly associated with OS, and these variables were included in a nomogram. The concordance index of nomogram for predicting OS was 0.766, and the AUC values of the nomogram predicting 1-year and 2-year OS rates were 0.838 and 0.863, respectively. The calibration curve demonstrated good agreement between predicted and observed OS. 5-fold and 10-fold cross-validation show good stability of nomogram predictions
Conclusions
Our nomogram based on clinical, laboratory, and MRI features well predicted OS of ECC patients, and could be considered as a convenient and personalized prediction tool for clinicians to make decisions.
Hepatitis C virus may accelerate breast cancer progression by increasing mutant p53 and c-Myc oncoproteins circulating levels
Authors: Fathy Amira , Abdelrazek Mohamed A. , Attallah Abdelfattah M. , Abouzid Amr , El-Far Mohamed
Published: June 2023

Background:Hepatitis C virus (HCV) was reported to relate to polymorphous and frequent extrahepatic manifestation. Despite the limited studies, HCV viral oncoproteins may be implicated in breast cancer (BC) tumor aggressiveness. In a trial to elucidate a mechanistic link, this study aimed to investigate a mutant p53 and c-Myc oncoproteins expression levels in BC patients with and without HCV infection.Methods:A total of 215 BC patients (119 infected and 96 non-infected with HCV) were collected. ELISA was used for detection of anti-HCV antibodies, mutant p53, c-Myc, HCV-NS4, CEA, CA 125 and CA-15.3.Results:HCV infection was related to BC late stages, lymph node invasion, distant metastasis, high grades and large size. HCV infected patients had a significantly (P<0.05) higher WBCs, ALT and AST activity, bilirubin CEA, CA125 and CA15.3 levels, and reduced haemoglobin, albumin and RBCs count. Regardless of tumor severity, HCV infection was associated with significant elevated levels of mutant p53 (22.5±3.5 µg/mL; 1.9-fold increase) and c-Myc (21.4±1.8 µg/mL; 1.5-fold increase). Among HCV-infected patients, elevated levels of p53 and c-Myc were significantly correlated with elevated tumor markers (CEA, CA 125 and CA15.3) and HCV-NS4 levels.Conclusions:this study concluded that HCV infection may be accompanied with BC severity behaviour and this may be owing to elevated expression of mutant p53 and c-Myc oncoproteins.
How to estimate the probability of a live birth after one or more complete IVF cycles？The development of a novel model in a single-center
Authors: Kong Xiangyi , Liu Zhiqiang , Huang Chunyu , Hu Xiuyu , Mo Meilan , Zhang Hongzhan , Zeng Yong
Published: June 2023

Objective
To estimate the probability of a live birth for an infertile couple after one or more complete cycles of in vitro fertilization (IVF) by using a Cox regression and Nomogram model.
Methods
A retrospective study for establishing a prediction model was conducted in the reproductive center of Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital. A total of 4413 patients who completed ovarian stimulation treatment and reached the trigger were involved. 70% of the patients were randomly placed into the training set (n = 3089) and the remaining 30% of the patients were placed into the validation set (n = 1324) randomly. Live birth rate (LBR) and cumulative LBR (CLBR) were calculated for one retrieval cycle and the subsequent five frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Proportional Hazards (PH) Assumption test was used for selecting the parameter in the predictive model. A Cox regression model was built based on the basis of training set, and ROC curves were used to test the specificity and sensitivity of the prediction model. Subsequently, the validation set was applied to verify the validity of the model. Finally, for a more intuitive assessment of the CLBR more intuitively for clinicians and patients, a Nomogram model was established based on predictive model. By calculating the scores of the model, the clinicians could more effectively predict the probability for an individual patient to obtain at least one live birth.
Result(s):
In the fresh embryo transfer cycle, the LBR was 38.7%. In the first to fifth FET cycle, the optimal estimate and conservative estimate CLBRs were 59.95%, 65.41%, 66.35%, 66.58%, 66.61% and 56.81%, 60.84%, 61.50%, 61.66%, 61.68%, respectively. Based on PH test results, the potential predictive factors for live birth were insemination method, infertility factors, serum progesterone level (R = 0.043, p = 0.059), and luteinizing hormone level (R = 0.015, p = 0.499) on the day initiated with gonadotropin, basal follicle-stimulating hormone (R = -0.042, p = 0.069) and BMI (R = -0.035, p = 0.123). We used ROC curve to test the predictive power of the model. The AUC was 0.782 (p < 0.01, 95% CI: 0.764–0.801). Then the model was verified using the validation data. The AUC was 0.801 (p < 0.01, 95% CI: 0.774–0.828). A Nomogram model was built based on potential predictive factors that might influence the event of a live birth.
Conclusion(s):
The Cox regression and Nomogram prediction models effectively predicted the probability of infertile couples having a live birth. Therefore, this model could assist clinicians with making clinical decisions and providing guidance for patients.
Trial registration:
N/A.
Retrospective review of pembrolizumab plus cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil as induction therapy for patients with unresectable T4b esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hokamura Nobukazu , Fukagawa Takeo , Fukushima Ryoji , Kiyokawa Takashi , Horikawa Masahiro , Soeda Naruyoshi , Suzuki Yusuke , Kaneshiro Shinya , Abe Koichiro , Kodashima Shinya , Yamamoto Takatsugu , Oshima Yasutoshi , Ishida Tsuyoshi , Sasajima Yuko , Nomoto Akihiro , Shiraishi Kenshiro , Ito Ai
Published: June 2023

Background: Pembrolizumab plus cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil administered as first-line therapy for advanced esophageal cancer patients has shown a better objective response and survival than conventional chemotherapy with less severe hematological adverse events. The safety and efficacy of this regimen were evaluated in patients with T4b esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).
Methods: Eight consecutive patients with T4b ESCC received this regimen according to KEYNOTE-590 as induction, and they were evaluated after 1-3 courses. The programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) combined positive score (CPS) was also evaluated before chemotherapy. Efficacy for the primary lesion was evaluated by our original formula for the tumor reduction rate.
Results: The numbers of patients with partial response (PR), stable disease, and progressive disease (PD) were 5, 1, and 2, respectively. The tumor reduction rate ranged from 69% to 87% in PR patients, and all PR patients had relief from T4b. One patient underwent conversion surgery with R0 resection. PD-L1 CPS was over 90 in 2 PR patients, but under 10 in 2 other PR patients. PD-L1 CPS was under 10 in PD patients. One patient had hyperprogression, resulting in an esophago-pulmonary fistula. Greater than grade 3 adverse events were bleeding gastric ulcer in one patient (12.5%), neutropenia without G-CSF in 3 patients (37.5%), and hypopotassemia in 1 patient (12.5%). No patient had febrile neutropenia.
Conclusions: Marked tumor reduction was confirmed in 62.5% of patients with pembrolizumab plus cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil with less adverse events. This regimen could be administered as induction chemotherapy for patients with T4b ESCC.
Prone Position Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Preparedness: Tool Development
Authors: Hroub Ahmad Al , Al-Yatim Sami , AlRuzzieh Majeda
Published: June 2023

Background
Patients in specialized units are purposely maintained in a prone position to surgically access internal organs or to improve patients’ oxygenation. Cardiac arrest unpredictably might occur while patients are in a prone position. The preparedness of health care providers (HCPs) to respond to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while patients are in a prone position (PPCPR) cannot be underestimated.
Purpose
This study aims to develop a tool to measure health care providers’ preparedness to perform prone position CPR, and to undertake an exploratory factor analysis.
Methods
A mixed-methods approach incorporating both qualitative and quantitative design is used. The PPCPR preparedness English language tool was constructed and tested for its validity and reliability, and an exploratory factor analysis was undertaken, among a convenience sample of 305 HCPs in different health care sectors in Jordan.
Results
The exploratory factor analysis resulted in a three-factor solution that explained 69.51% of the variance. These factors are competency and confidence, planning and training, and support and resource availability. The overall Cronbach’s alpha is 0.959 that indicates very good internal consistency. The final version of the tool consisted of 26 items that measure HCPs’ preparedness to perform PPCPR.
Conclusion
The final constructed PPCPR tool was found to be a valid and reliable tool. Moreover, the development of that tool represents a significant step towards improving HCPs’ preparedness to perform prone position CPR. By providing a standardized and comprehensive assessment tool, health care facilities can identify gaps in their readiness and implement targeted interventions to enhance their capabilities.
Identification, Systematic Evolution and Expression Analysis of PRMT Gene Family in Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: Shao Yuke , Yu Zhenyuan , Zhang Xiaofang , Shi Min , Ding Han , Fang Huihui
Published: June 2023

Background
Methylation is a chemical modification of DNA, histones, proteins and other molecules. Methylation on the Arginine residue of proteins is an irreversible modification after translation that takes involvement in a variety of crucial cellular activities in eukaryotes, for example, chromatin remodeling, transcriptional control, DNA repair, RNA processing, mRNA translation, protein interaction regulation, signal transduction, etc. Arg is methylated by a class of enzymes called protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs). To further understand the PRMT family genes in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), we carried out bioinformatical study for the purpose of describing SlPRMT genes.
Results
Here, we identified 9 PRMT genes in Solanum lycopersicum, and they were located on the 1st, 4th, 5th 6th, 7th, 8th and 12th chromosomes. Phylogenetic and evolutionary analysis indicated that one duplication event occurred between tomato chromosomes, and synteny conservation was quite high between tomato and potato. Many cis-regulatory elements existed in SlPRMT gene promoters, which were linked to abiotic stresses and hormonal responses, suggested the significance of these genes in the perception and transmission of diverse hormones and environmental signals by plants. According to the results of both public transcriptome data and our qPCR analysis, the majority of SlPRMT genes were able to expressing in various organs and developmental stages with different members having different expression patterns, and although most of them could adapt to heat and drought stress, distinct SlPRMT genes displayed unique response profiles. The results of the expression study suggested that SlPRMT genes might play multiple roles in the process of growth, development, and stress responses in plants.
Conclusion
Our study provided a comprehensive and systematic analysis of SlPRMT genes in tomato, which will be valuable for further identification of the functions of SlPRMTs in tomato.
Toxoplasma gondii molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis in hemodialysis patients from Khuzestan, Southwest Iran.
Authors: Yarahmadi Saba , Saki Jasem , Arjmand Reza , Shahbazian Heshmatollah
Published: June 2023

Introduction:
A vast variety of diverse creatures, including humans, are infected by the obligate intracellular parasite known as Toxoplasma gondii. Studies have revealed that those with compromised immune systems, such as hemodialysis patients, are more vulnerable to toxoplasmosis infection, which can have catastrophic consequences for them.
Objective
This study's goals were to assess the frequency of T. gondii infection in haemodialysis patients in Southwest Iran and to conduct phylogenetic analysis of the isolates.
Materials and Methods
Blood samples were taken from 379 haemodialysis patients who were referred to Ahvaz, Iran's educational hospitals. Using a Bioneer genomic DNA purification kit, DNA was recovered from the samples. T. gondii infection was discovered using a nested PCR with two pairings targeting the B1 gene, which was later verified by sequencing. Sequencing was done on ten T. gondii amplicons. The next step was to create a phylogenetic tree.
Results
T. gondii DNA was found in 112 (29.55%) of the blood samples by nested PCR. Amplicons from T. gondii revealed 96–100% identity with GenBank sequences. The main genotype of T. gondii, according to sequencing and phylogenetic studies, was type I.
Conclusion
The results of the current investigation indicated that hemodialysis patients have a high incidence of toxoplasmosis. Therefore, treating toxoplasmosis in these people needs to be done carefully.
Starting with sustainability: utilizing food wastes as nursery feed for black solder fly neonates
Authors: Zhang Qi-Hui , Nicole Lee Li Ying , Unadirekkul Phira , Puniamoorthy Nalini
Published: June 2023

With black soldier fly (BSF) larvae being recognized as effective waste convertors, the global market for BSF industry is projected to grow substantially in the coming decade. However, using non-waste materials in the bioconversion process increases the environmental footprint of the BSF industry [e.g.: chicken feed (CF) as primary neonatal nursery meal]. In this study, we first tested if industrial food wastes (i.e., okara, biscuit meal, dried fish, coconut.) can be substitute diets for BSF neonates. Next, we tested three formulated meals based on the nutritional properties of the well-performing nursery diets from the first test/previous literatures. In the first test, we observed significant differences in neonatal growth when food wastes were directly used as nursery meals, and the initial weight of neonates influenced the development time of the larvae, with smaller neonates exhibiting prolonged larval duration. In contrast, the formulated meals performed well in promoting the growth of neonates, and the larval development showed no significant difference by day eight in the post-nursery rearing. In summary, our findings indicate that by meeting specific nutritional requirements, formulated diets made from industrial food waste could serve as a viable replacement for CF as nursery meals, resulting in a significant boost in the sustainability of the BSF industry.
Temporal Alteration of Serum Bilirubin Levels and its Renoprotective Effects in Diabetic Nephropathy: Exploring the Hormonal Mechanisms
Authors: Cao Can , Wei Shuwu , He Leijuan , Wang Xiaonan , Li Chunyao , Lu Yizhen , Sun Weiwei , Wang Yaoxian
Published: June 2023

Objective
This current study represents a novel endeavor to scrutinize the correlation between the temporal alteration in serum total bilirubin (TBIL) concentrations and the rate of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Additionally, this study aims to probe the plausible molecular mechanism underpinning the renoprotective effects of bilirubin concerning its hormonal characteristics.
Materials and Methods
In this study, a cohort of 103 patients diagnosed with DN and receiving medical care at Dongzhimen Hospital were recruited and monitored over a period of 2–7 years. The progression of DN was ascertained using a threshold of eGFR decline > -5.48%/year. To assess the relationship between the annual change in serum TBIL levels (%/year) and the slope of eGFR, multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was employed. Furthermore, the ROC curve analysis was employed to determine the cut-off value for TBIL levels (%/year).
Results
The use of multivariate binary logistic regression models revealed that serum TBIL levels (%/year) exhibited a significant correlation with the slope of eGFR. Moreover, the ROC curve analysis indicated a cut-off value of -6.729%/year for TBIL levels (%/year) with a sensitivity of 0.75 and specificity of 0.603, in diagnosing eGFR decline >-5.48%/year.
Conclusions
The findings of this study suggest that the sustained elevation of serum bilirubin concentration within the physiological range can effectively retard the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Furthermore, the hormonal attributes of bilirubin may underlie its renoprotective effects.
Polydopamine (PDA) coatings with endothelial vascular growth factor (VEGF) immobilization inhibiting neointimal formation post zinc (Zn) wire implantation in rat aortas
Authors: Fu Jiayin , Zhu Qiongjun , Chen Zhezhe , Zhao Jing , Wu Shaofei , Zhao Meng , Xu Shihui , Lai Dongwu , Fu Guosheng , Zhang Wenbin
Published: June 2023

BackgroundBioresorbable stents are designed to provide temporary mechanical support to the coronary arteries and then slowly degradein vivoto avoid chronic inflammation. Zinc (Zn) is a promising material for bioresorbable stents; However, it can cause inflammation and neointimal formation after being implanted into blood vessels.MethodsTo improve biocompatibility of Zn, we first coated it with polydopamine (PDA), followed by immobilization of endothelial vascular growth factor (VEGF) onto the PDA coatings. Adhesion, proliferation, and phenotype maintenance of endothelial cells (ECs) on the coated Zn were evaluated. Then, a wire aortic implantation model in rats mimicking endovascular stent implantation in humans was used to assess vascular responses to the coated Zn wires in vivo. Thrombosis in aortas post Zn wire implantation, degradation of Zn wires in vivo, neointimal formation surrounding Zn wires, and macrophage infiltration and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in the neointimas were examined.ResultsIn vitrodata showed that PDA-coated Zn encouraged EC adhesion, spreading, proliferation, and phenotype maintenance on its surfaces. VEGF functionalization on PDA coatings further enhanced the biocompatibility of Zn to ECs. Implantation of PDA-coated Zn wires into rat aortas didn’t cause thrombosis and showed a faster blood flow than pure Zn or the Zn wires coated with VEGF alone. In addition, the PDA coating didn’t affect the degradation of Zn wiresin vivo. Besides, the PDA-coated Zn wires reduced neointimal formation, increased EC coverage, decreased macrophage infiltration, and declined aggrecan accumulation in ECM. VEGF immobilization onto PDA coatings didn’t cause thrombosis and affect Zn degradationin vivoas well, and further increased the endothelization percentage as compared to PDA coating alone, thus resulting in thinner neointimas.ConclusionThese results indicate that PDA coatings with VEGF immobilization would be a promising approach to functionalize Zn surfaces to increase biocompatibility, reduce inflammation, and inhibit neointimal formation after Zn implantationin vivo.
Evaluation of port competitiveness along China’s “Belt and Road” based on the entropy-TOPSIS method
Authors: Wang Jie , Mo Lilian , Ma Zhu
Published: June 2023

Based on the literature on the factors influencing port competitiveness, this paper evaluates the competitiveness of Chinese ports along the Belt and Road based on Porter's diamond model. The evaluation system includes four primary indicators, including port infrastructure, port operation scale, port hinterland economic level and port development potential, and thirteen secondary indicators. Then, based on the entropy-TOPSIS method, an evaluation model of port competitiveness is constructed. Finally, 15 seaports along China's "Belt and Road" are used to evaluate competitiveness, and a comprehensive ranking of port competitiveness is obtained. The advantages and shortcomings of each port are pointed out according to the evaluation results to provide a reference for the long-term development of the competitiveness of ports along the "Belt and Road" in China.
The developmental origins of health and disease and intergenerational inheritance: a scoping review of multigenerational cohort studies
Authors: Tan Jie , Zhang Zifan , Yan Lijing , Xu Xiaolin
Published: June 2023

Background
Epidemiologic research has increasingly acknowledged the importance of developmental origins of health and disease and suggests that prior exposures can be transferred across generations. Understanding the intergenerational inheritance has profound implications for developing public health interventions to prevent diseases. Multigenerational cohorts are crucial to verify the above-mentioned issues among human subjects. We carried out this scoping review aims to map existing literature to summarize multigenerational cohort studies' characteristics, issues, and implications and hence provide evidence to the developmental origins of health and disease hypothesis and intergenerational inheritance.
Methods
This study followed Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage scoping review framework. We adopted a three-step search strategy to identify multigenerational cohorts comprehensively, searching PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases from the inception of each dataset to June 20th, 2022, to retrieve relevant articles. We aim to include all the existing multigenerational cohorts. Data of included cohorts were extracted using a standardized tool, to form a descriptive analysis and a thematic summary.
Results
After screening, 28 unique multigenerational cohort studies were identified. We classified all studies into four types: population-based cohort extended three generation cohort, birth cohort extended three generation cohort, three generation cohort, and integrated birth and three generation cohort. Most cohorts (n = 15, 53%) were categorized as birth cohort extended three-generation studies. The sample size of included cohorts varied from 41 to 167,729. The study duration ranged from two years to 31 years. Most cohorts had comprehensive data collection schemes. Almost all cohorts had common exposures, including socioeconomic factors, lifestyle, and grandparents’ and parents’ health and risk behaviors over the life course. These studies usually investigated intergenerational inheritance of diseases as the outcomes, most frequently, obesity, child health, and cardiovascular diseases.
Conclusions
Most multigenerational studies aim to disentangle genetic, lifestyle and environmental contributions to the developmental origins of health and disease across generations. We call for more research on large multigenerational well-characterized cohorts, up to four or even more generations, and more studies from low-and middle-income countries.
Immune and stromal transcriptional patterns that influence the outcome of classic Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Garcia Juan F , Menendez Victoria , Solorzano Jose L , Garcia-Cosio Monica , Alonso-Alonso Ruth , Rodriguez Marta , Cereceda Laura , Fernandez Sara , Diaz Eva , Montalban Carlos , Estevez Monica , Piris Miguel Angel
Published: June 2023

Classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is characterized by a rich immune microenvironment as the main tumor component. It involves a broad range of cell populations, which are largely unexplored, even though they are known to be essential for growth and survival of Hodgkin and Reed–Sternberg cells. We profiled the gene expression of 25 FFPE cHL samples using NanoString technology and resolved their microenvironment compositions using cell-deconvolution tools, thereby generating patient-specific signatures. The results confirm individual immune fingerprints and recognize multiple clusters enriched in refractory patients, highlighting the relevance of: 1) the composition of immune cells and their functional status, including myeloid cell populations (M1-like, M2-like, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, etc.), CD4-positive T cells (exhausted, regulatory, Th17, etc.), cytotoxic CD8 T and natural killer cells; 2) the balance between inflammatory signatures (such as IL6, TNF, IFN-γ/TGF-β) and MHC-I/MHC-II molecules; and 3) several cells, pathways and genes related to the stroma and extracellular matrix remodeling. A validation model combining relevant immune and stromal signatures identifies patients with unfavorable outcomes, producing the same results in an independent cHL series. Our results reveal the heterogeneity of immune responses among patients, confirm previous findings, and identify new functional phenotypes of prognostic and predictive utility.
Silver carp experience metabolic and behavioral changes when exposed to water from the Chicago Area Waterway; implications for upstream movement
Authors: Schneider Amy , Esbaugh Andrew , Suski Cory
Published: June 2023

One of the hallmarks of invasive species is their propensity to spread. Removing an invasive species after establishment is virtually impossible, and so considerable effort is invested in preventing the range expansion of invaders. Silver carp were discovered in the Mississippi River in 1981 and have spread throughout the basin. Despite their propensity to expand, the ‘leading edge’ in the Illinois River has stalled south of Chicago, and has remained stable for a decade. Studies have suggested that pollutants in the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS) may be contributing to the lack of upstream movement, but this hypothesis has not been tested. This study used a laboratory setting to quantify the role of pollutants in deterring upstream movement of silver carp within the CAWS. For this, water was collected from the CAWS near the upstream edge of the distribution and transported to a fish culture facility. Silver carp and one native species were exposed to CAWS water, and activity, behavior, avoidance and metabolic rates were quantified. Results showed that silver carp experience an elevated metabolic cost in CAWS water, along with reductions in swimming behavior. Together, results suggest a role for components of CAWS water at deterring range expansion.