bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ingestion of microplastics by copepods in Tampa Bay Estuary, FL
Authors: Fibbe Mary Claire , Carroll Delphine , Gowans Shannon , Siuda Amy N. S.
Published: April 2023

Microplastics have been recognized as an emerging contaminant. Copepods are abundant primary consumers in marine food webs. Interactions between copepods and microplastics can lead to negative health effects to the individual and may have implications for populations and ecosystems through biomagnification. Laboratory and field studies have observed various species of zooplankton ingesting microplastics, however, this is the first study to observe microplastic-copepod interactions in Tampa Bay. Over 2 years (November 2017-January 2020), 14 sampling cruises were conducted with seven stations throughout Tampa Bay. At each station copepods were collected by towing a 200 μm mesh ring net (0.5 m diameter) for 3 min. 1,000 individual Acartia tonsa copepods were picked from each sample and digested to release gut contents. Gut contents were stained in a Nile Red solution and then visualized using epifluorescent microscopy, quantified, photographed and sized using image analysis. In Tampa Bay, A. tonsa consumed fragments over fibers, ranging from 0.018 to 0.642 mm, with an average particle size of 0.076 mm. An overall average of 15.38 particles were ingested per 1,000 copepods, or 6.48 particles m–3 when normalized for environmental copepod concentrations. While significant differences were detected between stations and months, no clear spatial (from head to mouth of estuary) or temporal (between wet and dry seasons) trends in ingestion rate or ingested particle size were evident. These results show that A. tonsa ingested microplastics throughout Tampa Bay. These robust baseline data, for a copepod species that dominates estuarine zooplankton communities around the world, set the stage for valuable comparisons between estuaries with different physical mechanisms and levels of anthropogenic impact, allowing for exploration of how the environmental conditions impact ecological interactions.
Vultures in the southeastern United States ingest more plastic in landscapes with more developed landcover
Authors: Partridge Hannah C. , Barnett Sophie , Amodeo Joseph , Snyder Jacob , Gagné Sara A.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Plastics are found in ecosystems worldwide and can have widespread impacts on organisms and the environment. Cathartid vultures, including the black vulture (Coragyps atratus) and the turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), have adapted to urbanized environments, making frequent use of human-made structures and anthropogenic resources. Thus, urban vultures are likely exposed to more plastic materials than rural vultures, which they intentionally or unintentionally ingest when foraging or loafing.

Methods

Our objective was to determine the extent and type of plastic ingested by black and turkey vultures in an urban environment by (1) measuring the plastic content of regurgitated pellets collected along an urban-to-rural gradient, and (2) identifying the plastics within pellets. We dissected 1,087 pellets collected at eight vulture congregation sites in the Charlotte Metropolitan Area, United States between January 2021 and July 2022.

Results and Discussion

Sixty percent of pellets contained plastic materials, with an average plastic composition by weight of 2.66 ± 8.76%. Repeated measures linear mixed models of the proportion of pellets that were plastic suggested that black and turkey vultures are ingesting more plastic materials when congregation sites are surrounded by more developed landcover and a greater density of commercial food providers, such as food stores and restaurants, within 20km. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of a subset of pellets indicated that the most common types of plastic ingested by vultures were silicone rubber (used in tires and automobile/boat seals) and polyethylene (used in plastic bags and food packages). Future research should investigate the relative importance of plastic sources in vulture diets, vulture behavioral changes associated with plastic ingestion, and the consequences of plastic pollution on species health and urban ecosystem functioning.
Ubiquitous conservative interaction patterns between post-spliced introns and their mRNAs revealed by genome-wide interspecies comparison
Authors: Bo Suling , Sun Qiuying , Li Zhongxian , Aodun Gerile , Ji Yucheng , Wei Lihua , Wang Chao , Lu Zhanyuan , Zhang Qiang , Zhao Xiaoqing
Published: April 2023

Introns, as important vectors of biological functions, can influence many stages of mRNA metabolism. However, in recent research, post-spliced introns are rarely considered. In this study, the optimal matched regions between introns and their mRNAs in nine model organism genomes were investigated with improved Smith–Waterman local alignment software. Our results showed that the distributions of mRNA optimal matched frequencies were highly consistent or universal. There are optimal matched frequency peaks in the UTR regions, which are obvious, especially in the 3′-UTR. The matched frequencies are relatively low in the CDS regions of the mRNA. The distributions of the optimal matched frequencies around the functional sites are also remarkably changed. The centers of the GC content distributions for different sequences are different. The matched rate distributions are highly consistent and are located mainly between 60% and 80%. The most probable value of the optimal matched segments is about 20 bp for lower eukaryotes and 30 bp for higher eukaryotes. These results show that there are abundant functional units in the introns, and these functional units are correlated structurally with all kinds of sequences of mRNA. The interaction between the post-spliced introns and their corresponding mRNAs may play a key role in gene expression.
Investigating causal relationships between the gut microbiota and allergic diseases: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Yiwei , Liu Tian , Wan Zihao , Wang Lin , Hou Jinpao , Shi Mai , Tsui Stephen Kwok Wing
Published: April 2023

Observational studies revealed altered gut microbial composition in patients with allergic diseases, which illustrated a strong association between the gut microbiome and the risk of allergies. However, whether such associations reflect causality remains to be well-documented. Two-sample mendelian randomization (2SMR) was performed to estimate the potential causal effect between the gut microbiota and the risk of allergic diseases. 3, 12, and 16 SNPs at the species, genus, and family levels respectively of 15 microbiome features were obtained as the genetic instruments of the exposure dataset from a previous study. GWAS summary data of a total of 17 independent studies related to allergic diseases were collected from the IEU GWAS database for the outcome dataset. Significant causal relationships were obtained between gut microbiome features including Ruminococcaceae, Eggerthella, Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, and Bacteroides and the risk of allergic diseases. Furthermore, our results also pointed out a number of putative associations between the gut microbiome and allergic diseases. Taken together, this study was the first study using the approach of 2SMR to elucidate the association between gut microbiome and allergic diseases.
Identification of novel immune ferroptosis-related genes associated with clinical and prognostic features in breast cancer
Authors: Xie Zhenlan , Li Jialin , Liu Chen , Zhao Tie , Xing Yixiang
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women, it is critical to identify potential targets and prognostic biomarkers. Ferroptosis combined with immunity shows a pivotal role in a variety of tumors, which provides new opportunities to detect and treat breast cancer.

Methods: Our first step was to combine multiple datasets to search for immune ferroptosis-related mRNAs. In the next step, risk signatures were created using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO). After that, based on the results of the multivariate Cox analysis, we created a prognostic nomogram and validated the model’s accuracy. Finally, functional enrichment analysis, single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), immunity and drug sensitivity correlation analysis were performed to explore the possible mechanisms by which these immune ferroptosis associated mRNAs affect BRCA survival.

Results: An immune ferroptosis signature (IFRSig) consisting of 5 mRNAs was constructed and showed excellent predictability in the training and validation cohorts. A correlation analysis revealed that clinical characteristics were closely related to risk characteristics. Our nomogram model, which we created by combining risk characteristics and clinical parameters, was proven to be accurate at predicting BRCA prognosis. Further, we divided patients into lowrisk and high-risk groups based on the expression of the model-related genes. Compared with low-risk group, high-risk group showed lower levels of immune cell infiltration, immune-related functions, and immune checkpoints molecules, which may associate with the poor prognosis.

Discussion: The IFRSig could be used to predict overall survival (OS) and treatment response in BRCA patients and could be viewed as an independent prognostic factor. The findings in this study shed light on the role of immune ferroptosis in the progression of BRCA.
Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome gene as a prognostic biomarker correlated with immune infiltrates in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Ding Guixin , Wang Tianqi , Liu Shangjing , Zhou Zhongbao , Ma Jian , Wu Jitao
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The abnormal expression of the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASP) encoded by the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) gene has been implicated in tumor invasion and immune regulation. However, prognostic implications of WAS and its correlation tumor infiltrating in renal clear cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is not clear cut.

Methods

The correlation between WAS expression, clinicopathological variables and clinical outcomes were evaluated using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER), UALCAN, Gene Expression Profiling Interaction Analysis (GEPIA), Kaplan-Meier (KM) plotter and other databases. Furthermore, we assessed the transcription expression of WAS in renal cancer tissues, various renal carcinoma cell lines and human renal tubular cells (HK2) using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). A comprehensive analysis of multiple databases including TIMER, GEPIA, TISIDB, ESTIMATE algorithm, and CIBERSORT algorithm were performed to determine the correlation between WAS and tumor infiltrating immune cells in ccRCC.

Results

The results displayed an increase in WAS mRNA level in ccRCC compared to normal tissue. WAS protein level was found highly expressed in cancer tissues, particularly within renal tumor cells via the human protein atlas (HPA). Interestingly, we found that elevated WAS expression was significantly positively correlated with the infiltration of CD8+ T cells, B cells, Monocytes, Neutrophils, Macrophages, T cell regulation, NK cells, and Dendritic cells in ccRCC. Bioinformatics demonstrated a strong correlation between WAS expression and 42 immune checkpoints, including the T cell exhaustion gene PD-1, which is critical for exploring immunotherapy for ccRCC. We revealed that patients with high WAS expression were less sensitive to immunotherapy medications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study identified that WAS was a prognostic biomarker and correlated with immune infiltrates in ccRCC.
Prevalence and diagnostic value of non-criteria antiphospholipid antibodies for antiphospholipid syndrome in Chinese patients
Authors: Li Siting , Bai Yina , Meng Jingjing , Wang Qian , Tian Xinping , Li Mengtao , Zeng Xiaofeng , Zhao Jiuliang , Hu Chaojun
Published: April 2023

Background

The presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS). This study aimed to examine the diagnostic value of a set of non−criteria aPLs and their relevance with APS-related criteria and extra-criteria manifestations.

Methods

From a prospectively constructed database, consecutive APS patients consisting of 114 primary APS (PAPS group), 54 with APS secondary to SLE (SAPS group), 9 seronegative APS (SNAPS), as well as 209 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 88 healthy controls were included in this study. Levels of criteria aPLs, baseline information, and APS-related criteria and extra-criteria features were extracted from the database. Serum levels of non-criteria aPLs including aPC IgG/IgM, aPI IgG/IgM, aPE IgG/IgM/IgA, aPG IgG/IgM/IgA, anti-phosphatidic acid (aPA) IgG/IgM, aSM IgG/IgM, and aPS/PT IgG/IgM were analyzed with AESKULISA® ELISA Test Kits.

Results

The addition of aPC IgG/M, aPI IgG/M, aPE IgG/M/A, aSM IgG/M, and aPA IgG/M to aCL or aβ2GPI IgG/M could significantly increase diagnostic sensitivity and accuracy. A significant difference between PAPS or SAPS and HC was presented in all non-criteria aPLs except for aSM IgM and aPG IgA. Eight out of nine SNAPS patients were positive for at least 1 aPL. Pregnancy morbidity was associated with aSM IgM (r = 0.22) and aSM IgG (r = 0.15). Pre-eclampsia or premature birth was associated with aSM IgG (r = 0.16), aPI IgG (r = 0.22), aPC IgG (r = 0.16), and aPG IgG (r = 0.18). Stroke was associated with aPI IgG (r = 0.2). The clinical association was also observed in DVT with aPS/PT IgG (r = 0.17). Valve lesion was positively associated with aSM IgM (Fisher test p = 0.039), APS nephropathy was associated with aPC IgG (OR 3.797), and livedo reticularis was associated with aPE IgM (OR 15.391).

Conclusion

Additional detection of non-criteria aPLs including aPC IgG/M, aPE IgG/M/A, aPI IgG/M, aSM IgG/M, and aPA IgG/M could assist in APS diagnosis. The positivity of certain aPLs was statistically associated with both criteria and extra-criteria APS clinical manifestations.
Changes of peripheral T cell subsets in melanoma patients with immune-related adverse events
Authors: Müller Benjamin , Bärenwaldt Anne , Herzig Petra , Zippelius Alfred , Maul Lara Valeska , Hess Viviane , König David , Läubli Heinz
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Immunotherapies have improved the prognosis of many cancer patients including patients with advanced melanoma. Immune checkpoint receptors including CTLA-4 and PD-1 have been established as main therapeutic targets for immunotherapy of melanoma. Although monotherapy is effective in melanoma patients, a dual therapy approach has been shown to be most effective. Dual checkpoint blockade, however, increases substantially the risk for immune-related adverse events (irAEs).

Methods

In this study, we characterized peripheral immune cell subsets in patients with anti-PD-1 monotherapy and with dual immune receptors blockade targeting PD-1 and CTLA-4.

Results

We found differences in peripheral T cells between patients who developed severe immune-related side effects and patients with mild irAEs. We identified several mainly changes in CD8+ T cell subsets in patients with severe irAE under dual PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade.

Discussion

This work suggests that peripheral immune cell dynamics could be associated with severe immune-related side effects in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. These changes could be used as future biomarkers in early diagnosis of irAEs.
Mitochondria in innate immunity signaling and its therapeutic implications in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Jiao Yuhao , Yan Zhiyu , Yang Aiming
Published: April 2023

Autoimmune diseases are characterized by vast alterations in immune responses, but the pathogenesis remains sophisticated and yet to be fully elucidated. Multiple mechanisms regulating cell differentiation, maturation, and death are critical, among which mitochondria-related cellular organelle functions have recently gained accumulating attention. Mitochondria, as a highly preserved organelle in eukaryotes, have crucial roles in the cellular response to both exogenous and endogenous stress beyond their fundamental functions in chemical energy conversion. In this review, we aim to summarize recent findings on the function of mitochondria in the innate immune response and its aberrancy in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc., mainly focusing on its direct impact on cellular metabolism and its machinery on regulating immune response signaling pathways. More importantly, we summarize the status quo of potential therapeutic targets found in the mitochondrial regulation in the setting of autoimmune diseases and wish to shed light on future studies.
Parapatric speciation of Meiothermus in serpentinite-hosted aquifers in Oman
Authors: Munro-Ehrlich Mason , Nothaft Daniel B. , Fones Elizabeth M. , Matter Juerg M. , Templeton Alexis S. , Boyd Eric S.
Published: April 2023

The factors that control the distribution and evolution of microbial life in subsurface environments remain enigmatic due to challenges associated with sampling fluids from discrete depth intervals via boreholes while avoiding mixing of fluids. Here, using an inflatable packer system, fracture waters were isolated and collected from three discrete depth intervals spanning >130 m in a borehole intersecting an ultramafic rock formation undergoing serpentinization in the Samail Ophiolite, Sultanate of Oman. Near surface aquifer waters were moderately reducing and had alkaline pH while deeper aquifer waters were reduced and had hyperalkaline pH, indicating extensive influence by serpentinization. Metagenomic sequencing and analysis of DNA from filtered biomass collected from discrete depth intervals revealed an abundance of aerobes in near surface waters and a greater proportion of anaerobes at depth. Yet the abundance of the putatively obligate aerobe,Meiothermus, increased with depth, providing an opportunity to evaluate the influence of chemical and spatial variation on its distribution and speciation. Two clades ofMeiothermusmetagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) were identified that correspond to surface and deep populations termed Types I (S) and II (D), respectively; both clades comprised an apparently Oman-specific lineage indicating a common ancestor. Type II (D) clade MAGs encoded fewer genes and were undergoing slower genome replication as inferred from read mapping. Further, single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and mobile genetic elements identified among MAGs revealed detectable, albeit limited, evidence for gene flow/recombination between spatially segregated Type I (S) and Type II (D) populations. Together, these observations indicate that chemical variation generated by serpentinization, combined with physical barriers that reduce/limit dispersal and gene flow, allowed for the parapatric speciation ofMeiothermusin the Samail Ophiolite or a geologic precursor. Further,Meiothermusgenomic data suggest that deep and shallow aquifer fluids in the Samail Ophiolite may mix over shorter time scales than has been previously estimated from geochemical data.
Ischemic stroke caused by large-artery atherosclerosis: a red flag for subclinical coronary artery disease
Authors: de Araújo Ana Luíza Vieira , Santos Raul D. , Bittencourt Marcio Sommer , Dantas Roberto Nery , Oshiro Carlos André , Nomura Cesar Higa , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Oliveira Marcelo de Lima , Leite Claudia da Costa , Martin Maria da Graça Morais , Alves Maramelia Miranda , Silva Gisele Sampaio , Silva Victor Marinho , Conforto Adriana Bastos
Published: April 2023

Background

The coronary calcium score (CAC) measured on chest computerized tomography is a risk marker of cardiac events and mortality. We compared CAC scores in two multiethnic groups without symptomatic coronary artery disease: subjects in the chronic phase after stroke or transient ischemic attack and at least one symptomatic stenosis ≥50% in the carotid or vertebrobasilar territories (Groupathero) and a control group (Groupcontrol).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, Groupathero included two subgroups: GroupExtraorIntra, with stenoses in either cervical or intracranial arteries, and GroupExtra&Intra, with stenoses in at least one cervical and one intracranial artery. Groupcontrol had no history of prior stroke/transient ischemic attacks and no stenoses ≥50% in cervical or intracranial arteries. Age and sex were comparable in all groups. Frequencies of CAC ≥100 and CAC > 0 were compared between Groupathero and Groupcontrol, as well as between GroupExtraorIntr, GroupExtra&Intra, and Groupcontrol, with bivariate logistic regressions. Multivariate analyses were also performed.

Results

A total of 120 patients were included: 80 in Groupathero and 40 in Groupcontrol. CAC >0 was significantly more frequent in Groupathero (85%) than Groupcontrol (OR, 4.19; 1.74–10.07; p = 0.001). Rates of CAC ≥100 were not significantly different between Groupathero and Groupcontrol but were significantly greater in GroupExtra&Intra (n = 13) when compared to Groupcontrol (OR 4.67; 1.21–18.04; p = 0.025). In multivariate-adjusted analyses, “Groupathero” and “GroupExtra&Intra” were significantly associated with CAC.

Conclusion

The frequency of coronary calcification was higher in subjects with stroke caused by large-artery atherosclerosis than in controls.
Effects of nurse-led hierarchical management care on acute stroke patients: A pilot study to promote stroke-associated pneumonia management
Authors: Zheng Dongxiang , Li Shengjuan , Ding Yan , Chen Huaihua , Wang Dong , Wang Huan , Xie Yuyao , Li Chen , Luo Jinglan
Published: April 2023

Background

Stroke-related pneumonia (SAP) is a common complication in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients, and it has adverse effects on the clinical outcomes and increases the burden on patients' families and society. Early identification and individualized care are necessary to reduce the incidence of SAP.

Objective

The present study aimed to explore the effect of nurse-led hierarchical management care based on the acute ischemic stroke-associated pneumonia score (AIS-APS) scale in AIS patients.

Methods

A quasi-intervention pilot study design was adopted for the present study. A total of 120 AIS patients were enrolled and assigned to the intervention group and the control group, with 60 subjects in each group in a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, China. The control group received routine care, whereas the intervention group was given nurse-led hierarchical management care based on the AIS-APS scale. The intervention duration was more than 7 days, and the incidence of SAP, neurological function, swallowing function, and activities of daily living (ADLs) at discharge were observed. The outcomes were assessed at baseline and at outpatient time.

Results

A total of 120 participants were enrolled in our study. A significant decrease was found in the incidence of SAP in the intervention group (18.3%) compared with that in the control group (41.7%). Positive outcomes were shown in neurology function, swallowing function, and ADL in the intervention group.

Conclusion

Nurse-led hierarchical management care based on AIS-APS can reduce the incidence of SAP, promote AIS patients' neurological function, and maintain patients' ADL. The results of our study indicated that nurse-led hierarchical management care is feasible for AIS patients and provides individualized interventions for patients with different levels of SAP risk. Nurse-led hierarchical management care could be incorporated into routine nursing practice. Further study is needed and expected to solve more clinical problems.
The effect of cardiovascular risk on disease progression in de novo Parkinson's disease patients: An observational analysis
Authors: Oosterwegel Max J. , Krijthe Jesse H. , den Brok Melina G. H. E. , van den Heuvel Lieneke , Richard Edo , Heskes Tom , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Evers Luc J. W.
Published: April 2023

Background

Currently available treatment options for Parkinson's disease are symptomatic and do not alter the course of the disease. Recent studies have raised the possibility that cardiovascular risk management may slow the progression of the disease.

Objectives

We estimated the effect of baseline cardiovascular risk factors on the progression of Parkinson's disease, using measures for PD-specific motor signs and cognitive functions.

Methods

We used data from 424 de novo Parkinson's disease patients and 199 age-matched controls from the observational, multicenter Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) study, which included follow-up of up to 9 years. The primary outcome was the severity of PD-specific motor signs, assessed with the MDS-UPDRS part III in the “OFF”-state. The secondary outcome was cognitive function, measured with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, and Letter-Number Sequencing task. Exposures of interest were diabetes mellitus, hypertension, body mass index, cardiovascular event history and hypercholesterolemia, and a modified Framingham risk score, measured at baseline. The effect of each of these exposures on disease progression was modeled using linear mixed models, including adjustment for identified confounders. A secondary analysis on the Tracking Parkinson's cohort including 1,841 patients was performed to validate our findings in an independent patient cohort.

Results

Mean age was 61.4 years, and the average follow-up was 5.5 years. We found no statistically significant effect of any individual cardiovascular risk factor on the MDS-UPDRS part III progression (all 95% confidence intervals (CIs) included zero), with one exception: in the PD group, the estimated effect of a one-point increase in body mass index was 0.059 points on the MDS-UPDRS part III per year (95% CI: 0.017 to 0.102). We found no evidence for an effect of any of the exposures on the rate of change in cognitive functioning in the PD group. Similar results were observed for the Tracking Parkinson's cohort (all 95% CIs overlapped with PPMI), but the 95% CI of the effect of body mass index on the MDS-UPDRS part III progression included zero.

Conclusions

Based on this analysis of two large cohorts of de novo PD patients, we found no evidence to support clinically relevant effects of cardiovascular risk factors on the clinical progression of Parkinson's disease.
Effects of the probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IMC 510® on body composition, biochemical parameters, gut microbiota composition and function, and clinical symptoms of overweight/obese subjects
Authors: Pagliai Giuditta , Coman Maria Magdalena , Baldi Simone , Dinu Monica , Nannini Giulia , Russo Edda , Curini Lavinia , Colombini Barbara , Lotti Sofia , Pallecchi Marco , Di Gloria Leandro , Bartolucci Gianluca , Ramazzotti Matteo , Verdenelli Maria Cristina , Sofi Francesco , Amedei Amedeo
Published: April 2023

Background and aim

In recent decades, obesity prevalence has reached epidemic proportions and considering the pivotal role of gut microbiota (GM) in the regulation of energy balance, alternative non-pharmacological approaches involving probiotics’ administration have been proposed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IMC 510® supplementation on anthropometric and biochemical parameters, GM composition and functionality, and gastrointestinal and general symptoms of overweight/obese subjects.

Methods

Forty overweight/obese subjects were randomly assigned to daily consume the probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IMC 510® or placebo for 3 months. Before and after the administration period, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, self-administered questionnaires, and plasma and stool samples were obtained from each participant. The GM characterization was performed with 16S rRNA sequencing, while fecal short (SCFAs) and medium (MCFAs) chain fatty acids were analyzed with a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry protocol.

Results

Compared to placebo, probiotic supplementation determined a significant decrease in body weight, BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, and blood glucose. Moreover, probiotic administration produced a significant decrease of the genera Hafnia-Obesumbacterium and Romboutsia and an increase of Succiniclasticum spp.; conversely, placebo administration resulted in the decrease of Actinomycetaceae and an increase of both Alloprevotella spp. and of the levels of pro-inflammatory hexanoic and heptanoic acids.

Conclusion

Thanks to its effect in increasing some beneficial gut bacteria and lowering effects on waist circumference, fasting glucose levels and gastrointestinal symptoms of obese subjects, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IMC 510® supplementation could represent a future and encouraging strategy for the prevention or treatment of obesity.
Mutual connected IL-6, EGFR and LIN28/Let7-related mechanisms modulate PD-L1 and IGF upregulation in HNSCC using immunotherapy
Authors: Li Junjun , Xiao Yazhou , Yu Huayue , Jin Xia , Fan Songqing , Liu Wei
Published: April 2023

The development of techniques and immunotherapies are widely applied in cancer treatment such as checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapy, and cancer vaccines apart from radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy give enduring anti-tumor effects. Minority people utilize single-agent immunotherapy, and most people adopt multiple-agent immunotherapy. The difficulties are resolved by including the biomarkers to choose the non-responders’ and responders’ potentials. The possibility of the potential complications and side effects are examined to improve cancer therapy effects. The Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is analyzed with the help of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and Insulin-like growth factor (IGF). But how IGF and PD-L1 upregulation depends on IL-6, EGFR, and LIN28/Let7-related mechanisms are poorly understood. Briefly, IL-6 stimulates gene expressions of IGF-1/2, and IL-6 cross-activates IGF-1R signaling, NF-κB, and STAT3. NF-κB, up-regulating PD-L1 expressions. IL-6/JAK1 primes PD-L1 for STT3-mediated PD-L1 glycosylation, stabilizes PD-L1 and trafficks it to the cell surface. Moreover, ΔNp63 is predominantly overexpressed over TAp63 in HNSCC, elevates circulating IGF-1 levels by repressing IGFBP3, and activates insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1).TP63 and SOX2 form a complex with CCAT1 to promote EGFR expression. EGFR activation through EGF binding extends STAT3 activation, and EGFR and its downstream signaling prolong PD-L1 mRNA half-life. PLC-γ1 binding to a cytoplasmic motif of elevated PD-L1 improves EGF-induced activation of inositol 1,4,5-tri-phosphate (IP3), and diacylglycerol (DAG) subsequently elevates RAC1-GTP. RAC1-GTP was convincingly demonstrated to induce the autocrine production and action of IL-6/IL-6R, forming a feedback loop for IGF and PD-L1 upregulation. Furthermore, the LIN28-Let7 axis mediates the NF-κB-IL-6-STAT3 amplification loop, activated LIN28-Let7 axis up-regulates RAS, AKT, IL-6, IGF-1/2, IGF-1R, Myc, and PD-L1, plays pivotal roles in IGF-1R activation and Myc, NF-κB, STAT3 concomitant activation. Therefore, based on a detailed mechanisms review, our article firstly reveals that IL-6, EGFR, and LIN28/Let7-related mechanisms mediate PD-L1 and IGF upregulation in HNSCC, which comprehensively influences immunity, inflammation, metabolism, and metastasis in the tumor microenvironment, and might be fundamental for overcoming therapy resistance.
Preoperative strain ultrasound elastography can predict occult central cervical lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid cancer: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Liu Long , Li Gang , Jia Chao , Du Lianfang , Shi Qiusheng , Wu Rong
Published: April 2023

Objective

To determine whether preoperative ultrasound elastography can predict occult central cervical lymph node metastasis (CCLNM) in patients with papillary thyroid cancer.

Methods

This retrospective study included 541 papillary thyroid cancer patients with clinically negative lymph nodes prior to surgery between July 2019 and December 2021. Based on whether CCLNM was present on postoperative pathology, patients were categorized as CCLNM (+) or CCLNM (-). Preoperative clinical data, conventional ultrasound features, and ultrasound elastography indices were compared between the groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to identify the independent predictors of occult CCLNM.

Results

A total of 36.60% (198/541) patients had confirmed CCLNM, while 63.40% (343/541) did not. Tumor location, bilaterality, multifocality, echogenicity, margin, shape, vascularity, capsule contact, extrathyroidal extension, aspect ratio, and shear wave elasticity parameters were comparable between the groups (all P > 0.05). Univariate analysis showed statistically significant differences between the two groups in age, sex, tumor size, calcification, capsule invasion, and strain rates ratio in strain ultrasound elastography (all P < 0.05). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the independent predictors of occult CCLNM were age (OR = 0.975, 95% CI = 0.959-0.991, P = 0.002), sex (OR = 1.886, 95% CI = 1.220-2.915, P = 0.004), tumor size (OR = 1.054, 95% CI = 1.014-1.097, P = 0.008), and strain rates ratio (OR = 1.178, 95% CI = 1.065-1.304, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Preoperative strain ultrasound elastography can predict presence of occult CCLNM in papillary thyroid cancer patients and help clinicians select the appropriate treatment strategy.
Preliminary experience in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy using the AEON™ endovascular stapler
Authors: Sheen Aali J. , Bandyopadhyay Samik , Baltatzis Minas , Deshpande Rahul , Jamdar Saurabh , Carino Nicola de Liguori
Published: April 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of using a new innovative endovascular stapler, AEON™, on the pancreatic leak rates and other outcome measures.

Methods

In a retrospective review of prospectively collected data from a secure tertiary unit registry, patients undergoing distal or lateral pancreatectomy were analyzed for any differences on pancreatic fistula rates, length of stay, comprehensive complication index (CCI), and demographics after using AEON™ compared with other commonly used staplers. Statistical significance was defined as <0.05.

Results

There were no differences in the demographics between the two groups totaling 58 patients over 2 years from 2019 to 2021. A total of 43 and 15 patients underwent pancreatic transection using other staplers and AEON™ endovascular stapler, respectively. The comparison of the two groups revealed a significantly reduced rate of mean drain lipase at postoperative day 3 with AEON™ (446 U/L) versus the other staplers (4,208 U/L) (p = 0.018) and a subsequent reduction of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) from 65% to 20%. A reduction in the mean CCI, from 13.80 when other staplers were used to 4.97 when AEON™ was used, was also observed (p = 0.087). Mean length of stay was shorter by 3 days in the AEON™ group compared with that in the other staplers (6 and 9 days, respectively; p = 0.018).

Conclusion

AEON™ stapler when used to transect the pancreas demonstrated a significantly reduced pancreatic fistula rate, length of stay in hospital, and a leaning towards a reduced CCI. Its use should be further evaluated in larger cohorts with the encouraging results to determine whether this is possibly related to the technology used in the design of the AEON™ stapler.
Central obesity and its associated factors among cancer patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Molla Meseret Derbew , Wolde Haileab Fekadu , Tafesse Teferi Ephrem , Kibret Anteneh Ayelign
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Obesity, especially the hidden type of obesity (central obesity), has been believed to be the major risk factor for developing and progressing non-communicable diseases, including cancers. However, there are limited studies regarding the issue in Ethiopia and the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the magnitude of central obesity and its associated factors among cancer patients visited the oncology unit of the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 10 to March 10, 2021. A total of 384 study participants were enrolled using a systematic sampling technique. The data were collected using a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and were pretested to address the quality of assurance. The weight of the participants was assessed using body mass index (BMI) and central obesity. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted to identify the factors associated with central obesity, and p-values less than 0.05 with multivariate were considered statistically significant associations.

Result

Most respondents (60.16%) were stage I cancer patients. The study found that about 19.27% of the participants were prevalent central obesity, and none of them were obese by body mass index (BMI) categorization criteria. However, about 12.24% and 7.03% of the participants were found to be underweight and overweight, respectively. The variables associated with central obesity were sex (AOR=14.40; 95% CI: 5.26 - 39.50), occupation (AOR=4.32; 95%CI: 1.10 - 17.01), and residency (AOR=0.30; 95% CI: 0.13 - 0.70).

Conclusion

A significant number of the respondents (19.27%) were centrally obese. Being female, urban residency and having an occupation other than a farmer, merchant, and governmental were the factors associated with central obesity. Hence, cancer patients may be centrally obese with average body weight.
Association of anxiety and depression to headache, abdominal- and musculoskeletal pain in children
Authors: Nilsen Marianne , Weider Siri , Halse Marte Kathrine , Fiskum Charlotte , Wichstrøm Lars
Published: April 2023

The comorbidity between recurrent pain, anxiety, and depression among children is frequent and well documented. However, only a few studies of the predictive effect of anxiety and depression on pain have adjusted for symptoms of the other disorder when examining the respective relations to different pain locations, rendering the unique contribution from anxiety and depression undetermined. In the current investigation we explore the strength of associations between pain at different locations with symptoms of anxiety and depression in a community sample of 10-year-old children (n = 703). The children were interviewed about the frequency of pain during the last 3 months. Parents and children were interviewed separately about symptoms of anxiety and depression using a semi-structured diagnostic interview. Results of three multivariate regression models for each of headache, abdominal and musculoskeletal pain revealed that depression was associated with musculoskeletal pain and headache, whereas anxiety was not. The associations for depression were not significantly stronger compared to anxiety. Gender-specific models found that depression was related to headache only among girls, but the association was not statistically different compared to boys. These results may, in turn, influence our interpretation of different forms of pain in children, with less weight given to abdominal symptoms viewed as a strong correlate with psychological problems, compared to for instance headache. The results provided no clear support for neither a differential relationship between anxiety and pain and depression and pain nor gender differences.
Case report: Epigastric heteropagus twins and literature review
Authors: Zhu Wenbin , Cui Xiongjian , Wu Zhaohan , Li Zhaolin , Chen Gang , Liang Suixin , Mao Jianxiong
Published: April 2023

Epigastric heteropagus twins are an extremely rare congenital anomaly of conjoined twins. We present a case of epigastric heteropagus twins who were diagnosed via prenatal ultrasound imaging: the fetus (or host) was connected to the abdominal wall of the parasite (the dependent portion), and an omphalocele was present. The male infant was delivered by cesarean section at 35 + 5 weeks gestation. The parasite lacked a head and heart and presented long bones of the limbs. After abdominal computed tomography, omphalocele repair, and parasite removal were surgically performed under general anesthesia. After discharge (follow-up, 3 months), the infant is currently growing well and is healing satisfactorily. Forty-one cases of epigastric heteropagus twins were retrieved from database searches: 38 good postoperative outcomes, 2 perioperative deaths, and 1 termination. The case highlights that even when parasites are massive in size, births can present good outcomes with suitable surgical treatment.
Epidemiology, risk factors and outcomes of prolonged mechanical ventilation with different cut-points in a PICU
Authors: Chongcharoenyanon Tatchanapong , Samransamruajkit Rujipat , Sophonphan Jiratchaya
Published: April 2023

Background

A consensus on the definition of prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) for children does not exist. There is still lack of published work presenting the epidemiology, risk factors and outcomes at different cut-points for PMV patients. These are important for planning the goals of treatment and counseling of the prognosis for patient families. We aimed to determine the incidence, baseline characteristics, risk factors and outcomes of PMV in pediatric patients at various cut-points (>14, >21 or >30days).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study among children <18-years-old who were PMV > 14 days in the PICU of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital was conducted. The primary outcomes were incidence of PMV with various cut-points. We stratified patients into three groups (Group 1; PMV > 14–21, Group 2; >21–30, Group 3; >30 days) for evaluating the baseline characteristics, risk factors, and outcomes of PMV (extubation success, tracheostomy status and death). Factors associated with PMV and deaths were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

From January 2018 to August 2022, 1,050 patients were screened. Of these, 114 patients were enrolled. The incidence of PMV > 14, >21 and >30 days were 10.9%, 7.3% and 5.0% respectively. Extubation success was significantly lower in Group 3 than in Groups 1 & 2 (15.4% vs. 62.2% & 56.0%, P < 0.001). Consequently, the tracheostomy rate (63.5% vs. 16.2% & 12.0%, P < 0.001), VAP rate (98.1% vs. 59.5% & 80.0%, P < 0.001), mortality rate by disease (34.6% vs. 5.4% & 20.0%, P = 0.003), median PICU LOS (50.5 vs. 22.0 & 28.0 days, P < 0.001) and median hospital LOS (124.5 vs. 55.0 & 62.0 days, P < 0.001) were also significantly higher for Group 3 compared with Groups 1 & 2. The factor associated with PMV > 30 days was VAP (aOR: 19.53, 95% CI: 2.38–160.34, P = 0.01). Factors associated with non-surviving patients were 3rd degree PEM (aOR: 5.14, 95% CI: 1.57–16.88, P = 0.01), PIM3 score ≥14 (aOR: 6.75, 95% CI: 2.26–20.15, P < 0.001) and muscle relaxant usage (aOR: 5.58, 95% CI: 1.65–18.86, P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Extubation failure, tracheostomy rate, VAP rate, mortality rate by disease, PICU LOS and hospital LOS were significantly higher for PMV >30 days. Consequently, we suggest that a 30-day duration as a cut-point for PMV in PICUs might be more appropriate.
Amanita muscaria extract potentiates production of proinflammatory cytokines by dsRNA-activated human microglia
Authors: Wagner Ashley , Pehar Marcus , Yan Zhimin , Kulka Marianna
Published: April 2023

Recent interest in mushrooms and their components as potential therapies for mental health, along with recent government and health authority approvals, has necessitated a more comprehensive understanding of their effects on the cellular microenvironment of the brain. Amanita muscaria has been ingested as a treatment for a variety of ailments for centuries, most notably those affecting the central nervous system and conditions associated with neuroinflammation. However, the effects of these extracts on neuroinflammatory cells, such as microglia, are unknown. The effect of commercially-sourced A. muscaria extract (AME-1) on human microglial cell line (HMC3) expression of surface receptors such as CD86, CXCR4, CD45, CD125 and TLR4 was determined by flow cytometry. AME-1 upregulated expression of all of these receptors. The effect of AME-1 on HMC3 production of IL-8 and IL-6 was determined and compared to tumor necrosis factor (TNF), polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)], substance P and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), all known activators of HMC-3 and primary microglia. HMC3 produced both IL-8 and IL-6 when activated with LPS, TNF and poly(I:C) but not when they were activated with substance P. Although AME-1 at higher concentrations increased IL-8 production of HMC3 on its own, AME-1 notably potentiated HMC3 production of IL-8 in response to poly(I:C). AME-1 altered expression of toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) mRNA but not surface protein by HMC3. AME-1 also did not significantly alter expression of retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) or melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), both cytosolic sensors of dsRNA. Metabolomics analysis showed that AME-1 contained several metabolites, including the autophagy inducer, trehalose. Like AME-1, trehalose also potentiated HMC3 poly(I:C) mediated production of IL-8. This study suggests that A. muscaria extracts can modify HMC3 inflammatory responses, possibly due to their trehalose content.
Safety and efficacy of Xiaoyao-san for the treatment of functional dyspepsia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ha Na-Yeon , Lee Hanul , Jeong Haein , Ko Seok-Jae , Park Jae-Woo , Kim Jinsung
Published: April 2023

Objective: Although Xiaoyao-san (XYS) is a popular herbal remedy for indigestion, there is insufficient evidence to recommend it as a treatment option for functional dyspepsia (FD). This review aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of XYS in patients with FD, compared to conventional Western medicine (WM).

Methods: Two independent reviewers searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using 11 electronic databases, including Medline and Embase, to evaluate therapeutic effects of XYS on FD up to 31 January 2023. The primary outcome was the total clinical efficacy rate (TCE), and secondary outcomes included scores of dyspepsia-related symptoms (DSS) and incidence of adverse events (AEs). The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane collaboration tool, and data synthesis and subgroup analyses were performed using the Review Manager program.

Results: Six studies involving 707 participants were included in the meta-analysis. XYS significantly improved TCE compared to WM (RR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.26, p = 0.002) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 59%, p = 0.06). Combination therapy also showed higher TCE than WM alone (RR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.41, p = 0.008), and the heterogeneity was low (I2 = 0%, p = 0.86). The results showed a greater reduction in DSS in the XYS and combination therapy groups than in the WM alone group (SMD = −0.72, 95% CI: −0.90, −0.53, p < 0.00001) with low heterogeneity (I2 = 44%, p = 0.15), especially for abdominal distension and upper abdominal pain. AEs occurred less frequently in the XYS and combination therapy groups than in the WM alone group (RR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.63, p = 0.006), and the heterogeneity was low (I2 = 45%, p = 0.18). The certainty of the evidence for each outcome was rated from “very low” to “high.”

Conclusion: This review suggests that XYS is effective and safe for reducing complaints in patients with FD. However, high-quality RCTs should be conducted to establish more convincing therapeutic evidence of XYS for the treatment of FD.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, CRD42020178842