bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher Plasma Pentraxin-3 Level Predicts Adverse Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Ding Kejun , Shi Zhewei , Qian Caizhen , Yang Xuan
Published: January 2022

Background: Association between plasma pentraxin-3 (PTX-3) and clinical outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) remains not fully determined. An updated meta-analysis of cohort studies was performed to systematically evaluate the association.

Methods: Cohort studies evaluating the association between plasma PTX-3 and adverse outcomes [mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs)] in adults with CAD were identified by systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Only studies with multivariate analysis were included. A random-effects model incorporating the potential intrastudy heterogeneity was used for the meta-analysis.

Results: A total of 16 studies including 11,007 patients were included. Pooled results showed that patients with highest level of PTX-3 were independently associated with higher risk of mortality [adjusted risk ratio (RR): 2.09, 95% CI: 1.60 to 2.74, p < 0.001; I2 = 50%] and MACEs (adjusted RR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.43 to 2.28, p < 0.001; I2 = 49%). Subgroup analyses showed that the associations between PTX-3 and poor prognosis in CAD were consistent in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infraction, non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome, and stable CAD (p < 0.05 for each subgroup). Besides, the association between PTX-3 and increased incidence of mortality and MACEs were consistent in short-term (within 1 year) and long-term (over 1 year) studies and in studies with or without adjustment of C-reactive protein (CRP) (p < 0.05 for each subgroup).

Conclusion: Higher plasma PTX-3 is associated with poor prognosis in patients with CAD, which may be independent of the CAD subtype, follow-up durations, and adjustment of CRP.
Role of Biological Sex in the Cardiovascular-Gut Microbiome Axis
Authors: Li Shuangyue , Kararigas Georgios
Published: January 2022

There has been a recent, unprecedented interest in the role of gut microbiota in host health and disease. Technological advances have dramatically expanded our knowledge of the gut microbiome. Increasing evidence has indicated a strong link between gut microbiota and the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In the present article, we discuss the contribution of gut microbiota in the development and progression of CVD. We further discuss how the gut microbiome may differ between the sexes and how it may be influenced by sex hormones. We put forward that regulation of microbial composition and function by sex might lead to sex-biased disease susceptibility, thereby offering a mechanistic insight into sex differences in CVD. A better understanding of this could identify novel targets, ultimately contributing to the development of innovative preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for men and women.
miR-190a-5p Partially Represses the Abnormal Electrical Activity of SCN3B in Cardiac Arrhythmias by Downregulation of IL-2
Authors: Li Qianqian , Zhang Ziguan , Chen Shanshan , Huang Zhengrong , Wang Mengru , Zhou Mengchen , Yu Chenguang , Wang Xiangyi , Chen Yilin , Jiang Dan , Du Dunfeng , Huang Yufeng , Tu Xin , Chen Zhishui , Zhao Yuanyuan
Published: January 2022

Cardiac arrhythmias (CAs) are generally caused by disruption of the cardiac conduction system; interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a key player in the pathological process of CAs. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the regulation of IL-2 and the sodium channel current of sodium voltage-gated channel beta subunit 3 (SCN3B) by miR-190a-5p in the progression of CAs. ELISA results suggested the concentration of peripheral blood serum IL-2 in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) to be increased compared to that in normal controls; fluorescence in situ hybridization indicated that the expression of IL-2 in the cardiac tissues of patients with AF to be upregulated and that miR-190a-5p to be downregulated. Luciferase reporter assay, quantitative real-time-PCR, and whole-cell patch-clamp experiments confirmed the downregulation of IL-2 by miR-190a-5p and influence of the latter on the sodium current of SCN3B. Overall, miR-190a-5p suppressed the increase in SCN3B sodium current caused by endogenous IL-2, whereas miR-190a-5p inhibitor significantly reversed this effect. IL-2 was demonstrated to be directly regulated by miR-190a-5p. We, therefore, concluded that the miR-190a-5p/IL-2/SCN3B pathway could be involved in the pathogenesis of CAs and miR-190a-5p might acts as a potential protective factor in pathogenesis of CAs.
Oxidized Lipids: Common Immunogenic Drivers of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Hoebinger Constanze , Rajcic Dragana , Hendrikx Tim
Published: January 2022

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), ranging from simple steatosis to inflammatory steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis, continues to rise, making it one of the major chronic liver diseases and indications for liver transplantation worldwide. The pathological processes underlying NAFLD not only affect the liver but are also likely to have systemic effects. In fact, growing evidence indicates that patients with NAFLD are at increased risk for developing atherosclerosis. Indeed, cardiovascular complications are the leading cause of mortality in NAFLD patients. Here, we aim to address common pathophysiological molecular pathways involved in chronic fatty liver disease and atherosclerosis. In particular, we focus on the role of oxidized lipids and the formation of oxidation-specific epitopes, which are important targets of host immunity. Acting as metabolic danger signals, they drive pro-inflammatory processes and thus contribute to disease progression. Finally, we summarize encouraging studies indicating that oxidized lipids are promising immunological targets to improve intervention strategies for NAFLD and potentially limit the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Analysing the Relationship Between Mental Load or Mental Effort and Metacomprehension Under Different Conditions of Multimedia Design
Authors: Schnaubert Lenka , Schneider Sascha
Published: January 2022

Cognitive load theory assumes effort may only lead to comprehension if the material-induced load leaves enough resources for learning processes. Therefore, multimedia materials should induce as little non-relevant load as possible. Metacognition research assumes that learners tap into their memory processes to generate a mental representation of their comprehension to regulate learning. However, when judging their comprehension, learners need to make inferences about actual understanding using cues such as their experienced mental load and effort during learning. Theoretical assumptions would assume both to affect understanding and its metacognitive representation (metacomprehension). However, the question remains how perceived effort and load are related to metacomprehension judgments while learning with multimedia learning material. Additionally, it remains unclear if this varies under different conditions of multimedia design. To better understand the relationship between perceived mental load and effort and comprehension and metacomprehension under different design conditions of multimedia material, we conducted a randomised between-subjects study (N= 156) varying the design of the learning material (text-picture integrated, split attention, active integration). Mediation analyses testing for both direct and indirect effects of mental load and effort on metacomprehension judgments showed various effects. Beyond indirect effects via comprehension, both mental load and effort were directly related to metacomprehension, however, this seems to vary under different conditions of multimedia design, at least for mental effort. As the direction of effect can only be theoretically assumed, but was not empirically tested, follow-up research needs to identify ways to manipulate effort and load perceptions without tinkering with metacognitive processes directly. Despite the limitations due to the correlative design, this research has implications for our understanding of cognitive and metacognitive processes during learning with multimedia.
Trends in the Degree of Control and Treatment of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in People With Type 2 Diabetes in a Primary Care Setting in Catalonia During 2007–2018
Authors: Mata-Cases Manel , Vlacho Bogdan , Real Jordi , Puig-Treserra Ramon , Bundó Magdalena , Franch-Nadal Josep , Mauricio Didac
Published: January 2022

Objective

To assess the trends in cardiovascular risk factor control and drug therapy from 2007 to 2018 in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

Cross-sectional analysis using yearly clinical data and treatment obtained from the SIDIAP database. Patients aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of T2DM seen in primary care in Catalonia, Spain.

Results

The number of T2DM patients increased from 299,855 in 2007 to 394,266 in 2018. We also found an increasing prevalence of cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease (from 18.4 to 24.4%, from 4.5 to 7.3%, and from 20.2 to 31.3%, respectively). The achievement of glycemic targets (HbA1c<7%) scarcely changed (54.9% to 55.9%). Major improvements were seen in blood pressure (≤140/90 mmHg: from 55% to 71.8%), and in lipid control (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol <100 mg/dl: 33.4% to 48.4%), especially in people with established cardiovascular disease (48.8 to 69.7%). Simultaneous achievement of all three targets improved from 12.5% to 20.1% in the overall population and from 24.5% to 32.2% in those with cardiovascular disease but plateaued after 2013. There was an increase in the percentage of patients treated with any antidiabetic drug (70.1% to 81.0%), especially metformin (47.7% to 67.7%), and DPP4i (0 to 22.6%). The use of SGLT-2 and GLP-1ra increased over the years, but remained very low in 2018 (5.5% and 2.1% of subjects, respectively). There were also relevant increases in the use of statins (38.0% to 49.2%), renin-angiotensin system (RAS) drugs (52.5% to 57.2%), and beta-blockers (14.3% to 22.7%).

Conclusions

During the 2007-2018 period, relevant improvements in blood pressure and lipid control occurred, especially in people with cardiovascular disease. Despite the increase in the use of antidiabetic and cardiovascular drugs, the proportion of patients in which the three objectives were simultaneously achieved is still insufficient and plateaued after 2013. The use of antidiabetic drugs with demonstrated cardio renal benefits (SGLT-2 and GLP-1ra) increased over the years, but their use remained quite low.
Distinct Glucocorticoid Receptor Actions in Bone Homeostasis and Bone Diseases
Authors: Lee Sooyeon , Krüger Benjamin Thilo , Ignatius Anita , Tuckermann Jan
Published: January 2022

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are steroid hormones that respond to stress and the circadian rhythm. Pharmacological GCs are widely used to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases despite their adverse effects on bone after long-term therapy. GCs regulate bone homeostasis in a cell-type specific manner, affecting osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes. Endogenous physiological and exogenous/excessive GCs act via nuclear receptors, mainly via the GC receptor (GR). Endogenous GCs have anabolic effects on bone mass regulation, while excessive or exogenous GCs can cause detrimental effects on bone. GC-induced osteoporosis (GIO) is a common adverse effect after GC therapy, which increases the risk of fractures. Exogenous GC treatment impairs osteoblastogenesis, survival of the osteoblasts/osteocytes and prolongs the longevity of osteoclasts. Under normal physiological conditions, endogenous GCs are regulated by the circadian rhythm and circadian genes display oscillatory rhythmicity in bone cells. However, exogenous GCs treatment disturbs the circadian rhythm. Recent evidence suggests that the disturbed circadian rhythm by continuous exogenous GCs treatment can in itself hamper bone integrity. GC signaling is also important for fracture healing and rheumatoid arthritis, where crosstalk among several cell types including macrophages and stromal cells is indispensable. This review summarizes the complexity of GC actions via GR in bone cells at cellular and molecular levels, including the effect on circadian rhythmicity, and outlines new therapeutic possibilities for the treatment of their adverse effects.
Long-Term Spatiotemporal Variation of Net Primary Productivity and Its Correlation With the Urbanization: A Case Study in Hubei Province, China
Authors: Wu Ke , Zhou Chengfeng , Zhang Yuxiang , Xu Ying
Published: January 2022

Net primary productivity (NPP) is a critical component in terrestrial ecosystem carbon cycles. Thus, quantitatively estimating and monitoring the dynamics of NPP have become key aspects for exploring the carbon cycle of terrestrial ecosystems. Anthropogenic activity, such as urbanization, has significant effects on NPP and increases pressure on the natural resources of a specific region. However, to date, although many studies have focused on the relationship between NPP variation and urbanization, they usually ignored any differences at a long-term spatiotemporal variation of urbanization factors, which led to the insufficient understanding of the urbanization-induced impacts on NPP. As a result, this study effectively explored the spatiotemporal variation of NPP from 2001 to 2012 and its corresponding relationship with urbanization, taking the Hubei Province in China as a case study area. To clarify the degree of urbanization, the spatial distribution and temporal variation of population and gross domestic product (GDP) were simulated based on the elevation-adjusted human settlement index and nighttime lights data. The major results showed that high NPP areas were located in those highlands with widespread woodland, in which the NPP value continued to grow during the period. The low NPP areas were mainly distributed in urban areas, and the NPP value had a continued and visible loss. The population and GDP both had a strong correlation with NPP. The significant negative correlation was concentrated in the center of Hubei, with a dense population and developed economy. In order to further realize their complex relationship, the correlation coefficients between the annual NPP and the two factors from 2001 to 2012 were calculated, and the changing trends were investigated. Overall, the findings of this study may provide a reference for studies on the interaction between ecological environment and socioeconomic processes under the background of global rapid urbanization.
Kin Recognition in Plants: Did We Learn Anything From Roots?
Authors: Biedrzycki Meredith L. , Bais Harsh P.
Published: January 2022

Kin recognition, manifesting through various traits such as changes in root or shoot growth, has been documented in several species of plants. Identifying this phenomenon in plants has intrinsic value itself, understanding why plants recognize kin and how it might benefit them evolutionarily has been of recent interest. Here we explore studies regarding nutrient and resource allocation in regard to kin recognition as well as discuss how kin recognition is involved in multispecies interactions with an emphasis on how plant roots are involved in these processes. Future directions of this research are also discussed.
Identifying Potential miRNA Biomarkers for Gastric Cancer Diagnosis Using Machine Learning Variable Selection Approach
Authors: Gilani Neda , Arabi Belaghi Reza , Aftabi Younes , Faramarzi Elnaz , Edgünlü Tuba , Somi Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2022

Aim: This study aimed to accurately identification of potential miRNAs for gastric cancer (GC) diagnosis at the early stages of the disease.

Methods: We used GSE106817 data with 2,566 miRNAs to train the machine learning models. We used the Boruta machine learning variable selection approach to identify the strong miRNAs associated with GC in the training sample. We then validated the prediction models in the independent sample GSE113486 data. Finally, an ontological analysis was done on identified miRNAs to eliciting the relevant relationships.

Results: Of those 2,874 patients in the training the model, there were 115 (4%) patients with GC. Boruta identified 30 miRNAs as potential biomarkers for GC diagnosis and hsa-miR-1343-3p was at the highest ranking. All of the machine learning algorithms showed that using hsa-miR-1343-3p as a biomarker, GC can be predicted with very high precision (AUC; 100%, sensitivity; 100%, specificity; 100% ROC; 100%, Kappa; 100) using with the cut-off point of 8.2 for hsa-miR-1343-3p. Also, ontological analysis of 30 identified miRNAs approved their strong relationship with cancer associated genes and molecular events.

Conclusion: The hsa-miR-1343-3p could be introduced as a valuable target for studies on the GC diagnosis using reliable biomarkers.
Genome-Wide Analysis of TIR-NBS-LRR Gene Family in Potato Identified StTNLC7G2 Inducing Reactive Oxygen Species in Presence of Alternaria solani
Authors: Dubey Namo , Chaudhary Anjali , Singh Kunal
Published: January 2022

Resistance gene analogs (RGAs) comprising NBS-LRR gene family members are considered prominent candidates in the development of disease-resistant genotypes. NBS-LRR gene family comprised a very large number of genes; therefore, members of one subfamily TIR-NBS-LRR (TNL) are identified in the present study from Solanum tuberosum genome, followed by their bioinformatics characterization. The study identified a total of 44 genes encoding 60 TNL transcripts with two prominent clusters at chromosome 1 and chromosome 11. Expression analysis of 14 TNL genes after Alternaria solani infection at 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 days post inoculation in two disease-tolerant varieties, Kufri Jyoti and Kufri Pukhraj, and one relatively susceptible variety, Kufri Chandramukhi, showed differential expression of many genes including a high expression (>15-fold) of StTNLC6G2T1 and StTNLC11G9T1. Functional characterization of one such gene, StTNLC7G2, reveals involvement in the generation of reactive oxygen species under A. solani attack, implicating its putative role in plant defense via hypersensitive response.
Characterization of the microRNA Expression Profiles in the Goat Kid Liver
Authors: Zhao Xiaodong , Ji Zhibin , Xuan Rong , Wang Aili , Li Qing , Zhao Yilin , Chao Tianle , Wang Jianmin
Published: January 2022

The liver is the largest digestive gland in goats with an important role in early metabolic function development. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are crucial for regulating the development and metabolism in the goat liver. In the study, we sequenced the miRNAs in the liver tissues of the goat kid to further research their regulation roles in early liver development. The liver tissues were procured at 5-time points from the Laiwu black goats of 1 day (D1), 2 weeks (W2), 4 weeks (W4), 8 weeks (W8), and 12 weeks (W12) after birth, respectively with five goats per time point, for a total of 25 goats. Our study identified 214 differential expression miRNAs, and the expression patterns of 15 randomly selected miRNAs were examined among all five age groups. The Gene ontology annotation results showed that differential expression miRNA (DE miRNA) target genes were significantly enriched in the fatty acid synthase activity, toxin metabolic process, cell surface, and antibiotic metabolic process. The KEGG analysis result was significantly enriched in steroid hormone synthesis and retinol metabolism pathways. Further miRNA-mRNA regulation network analysis reveals 9 differently expressed miRNA with important regulation roles. Overall, the DE miRNAs were mainly involved in liver development, lipid metabolism, toxin related metabolism-related biological process, and pathways. Our results provide new information about the molecular mechanisms and pathways in the goat kid liver development.
Fine Mapping Analysis of the MHC Region to Identify Variants Associated With Chinese Vitiligo and SLE and Association Across These Diseases
Authors: Cao Lu , Zhang Ruixue , Wang Yirui , Hu Xia , Yong Liang , Li Bao , Ge Huiyao , Chen Weiwei , Zhen Qi , Yu Yafen , Mao Yiwen , Li Zhuo , Fan Wencheng , Sun Liangdan
Published: January 2022

The important role of MHC in the pathogenesis of vitiligo and SLE has been confirmed in various populations. To map the most significant MHC variants associated with the risk of vitiligo and SLE, we conducted fine mapping analysis using 1117 vitiligo cases, 1046 SLE cases and 1693 healthy control subjects in the Han-MHC reference panel and 1000 Genomes Project phase 3. rs113465897 (P=1.03×10-13, OR=1.64, 95%CI =1.44–1.87) and rs3129898 (P=4.21×10-17, OR=1.93, 95%CI=1.66–2.25) were identified as being most strongly associated with vitiligo and SLE, respectively. Stepwise conditional analysis revealed additional independent signals at rs3130969(p=1.48×10-7, OR=0.69, 95%CI=0.60–0.79), HLA-DPB1*03:01 (p=1.07×10-6, OR=1.94, 95%CI=1.49–2.53) being linked to vitiligo and HLA-DQB1*0301 (P=4.53×10-7, OR=0.62, 95%CI=0.52-0.75) to SLE. Considering that epidemiological studies have confirmed comorbidities of vitiligo and SLE, we used the GCTA tool to analyse the genetic correlation between these two diseases in the HLA region, the correlation coefficient was 0.79 (P=5.99×10-10, SE=0.07), confirming their similar genetic backgrounds. Our findings highlight the value of the MHC region in vitiligo and SLE and provide a new perspective for comorbidities among autoimmune diseases.
Case Report: High Doses of Intravenous Immunoglobulins as a Successful Treatment for Late Onset Immune Agranulocytosis After Rituximab Plus Bendamustine
Authors: Diez-Feijóo Ramon , Rodríguez-Sevilla Juan Jose , Fernández-Rodríguez Concepcion , Flores Solange , Raya Carmen , Ferrer Ana , Colomo Luis , Salar Antonio
Published: January 2022

Late onset neutropenia (LON) related to rituximab or rituximab plus chemotherapy is defined as an unexplained absolute neutrophil count of ≤1.5 × 109/L starting at least four weeks after the last rituximab administration. LON is infrequent and its pathophysiology remains unknown. There are no guidelines or consensus strategies for the optimal management of patients developing LON. The majority of the patients recover promptly with no specific treatment and only some cases need to be managed with granulocytic colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), usually with a rapid response. Here, we describe a 69-year-old patient with Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia who presented a septic event in the context of severe LON after rituximab plus bendamustine. The diagnosed of agranulocytosis was established by bone marrow examination. Interestingly, anti-neutrophil antibodies bound to the patient’s granulocytes were found suggesting an autoimmune mechanism. The patient did not respond to G-CSF but achieved a rapid response after high doses of intravenous immunoglobulins with full white blood cell recovery.
Patient-Level DNA Damage Repair Pathway Profiles and Anti-Tumor Immunity for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lou Shenghan , Wang Yufei , Zhang Jian , Yin Xin , Zhang Yao , Wang Yimin , Xue Yingwei
Published: January 2022

DNA damage repair (DDR) comprises the detection and correction of alterations in the chemical structure of DNA. The dysfunction of the DDR process has been determined to have important implications for tumor carcinogenesis, malignancy progression, treatment resistance, and prognosis assessment. However, the role of the DDR process in gastric cancer (GC) remains to be fully understood. Thus, a total of 2,019 GC samples from our hospital (Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital in china) and 12 public data sets were included in our study. In this study, single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was used to generate the DDR pathway activity profiles of 8 DDR sub-pathways and identify a DDR pathway signature by combining the DDR sub-pathway gene sets. The DDR pathway profiling’s impacts on the clinical outcomes, biological functions, genetic variants, immune heterogeneity, and treatment responses were analyzed through multidimensional genomics and clinical data. The results demonstrate that the DDR pathway profiling was clearly distinguished between tumor and normal tissues. The DDR pathway profiling reveals patient-level variations, which may contribute to explaining the high heterogeneity of human GC for the biological features and treatment outcomes. Thus, tumors with low DDR signature scores were independently correlated with shorter overall survival time and significantly associated with mesenchymal, invasion, and metastasis phenotypes. The statistical model integrating this DDR pathway signature with other clinical predictors outperforms each predictor alone for predicting overall survival in discrimination, calibration, and net clinical benefit. Moreover, low DDR signature scores were tightly associated with genome stability, characterized by low tumor mutational burden (TMB) and low fractions of genome alteration. Furthermore, this study confirms that patients with low DDR pathway signature scores might not benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy and a monoclonal antibody directed against programmed cell death-1 ligand 1 (anti-PD1) therapy. These findings highlighted that the DDR pathway profiling confers important implications for patients with GC and provides insights into the specific clinical and molecular features underlying the DDR process, which may help to facilitate clinical management.
Penaeus monodon Interferon Regulatory Factor (PmIRF) Activates IFNs and Antimicrobial Peptide Expression via a STING-Dependent DNA Sensing Pathway
Authors: Soponpong Suthinee , Amparyup Piti , Kawai Taro , Tassanakajon Anchalee
Published: January 2022

Interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) are transcription factors found in both vertebrates and invertebrates that were recently identified and found to play an important role in antiviral immunity in black tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon. In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which P. monodon IRF (PmIRF) regulates the immune-related genes downstream of the cytosolic DNA sensing pathway. Depletion of PmIRF by double-stranded RNA-mediated gene silencing significantly reduced the mRNA expression levels of the IFN-like factors PmVago1, PmVago4, and PmVago5 and antilipopolysaccharide factor 6 (ALFPm6) in shrimp. In human embryonic kidney (HEK293T) cells transfected with PmIRF or co-transfected with DEAD-box polypeptide (PmDDX41) and simulator of IFN genes (PmSTING) expression plasmids, the promoter activity of IFN-β, nuclear factor (NF-κB), and ALFPm6 was synergistically enhanced following stimulation with the nucleic acid mimics deoxyadenylic–deoxythymidylic acid sodium salt [poly(dA:dT)] and high molecular weight (HMW) polyinosinic–polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)]. Both nucleic acid mimics also significantly induced PmSTING, PmIRF, and ALFPm6 gene expression. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that PmIRF interacted with PmSTING in cells stimulated with poly(dA:dT). PmSTING, PmIRF, and PmDDX41 were localized in the cytoplasm of unstimulated HEK293T cells and PmIRF and PmDDX41 were translocated to the nucleus upon stimulation with the nucleic acid mimics while PmSTING remained in the cytoplasm. These results indicate that PmIRF transduces the pathogen signal via the PmDDX41–PmSTING DNA sensing pathway to induce downstream production of interferon-like molecules and antimicrobial peptides.
Bio-GO-SHIP: The Time Is Right to Establish Global Repeat Sections of Ocean Biology
Authors: Clayton Sophie , Alexander Harriet , Graff Jason R. , Poulton Nicole J. , Thompson Luke R. , Benway Heather , Boss Emmanuel , Martiny Adam
Published: January 2022

In this article, we present Bio-GO-SHIP, a new ocean observing program that will incorporate sustained and consistent global biological ocean observations into the Global Ocean Ship-based Hydrographic Investigations Program (GO-SHIP). The goal of Bio-GO-SHIP is to produce systematic and consistent biological observations during global ocean repeat hydrographic surveys, with a particular focus on the planktonic ecosystem. Ocean plankton are an essential component of the earth climate system, form the base of the oceanic food web and thereby play an important role in influencing food security and contributing to the Blue Economy. Despite its importance, ocean biology is largely under-sampled in time and space compared to physical and chemical properties. This lack of information hampers our ability to understand the role of plankton in regulating biogeochemical processes and fueling higher trophic levels, now and in future ocean conditions. Traditionally, many of the methods used to quantify biological and ecosystem essential ocean variables (EOVs), measures that provide valuable information on the ecosystem, have been expensive and labor- and time-intensive, limiting their large-scale deployment. In the last two decades, new technologies have been developed and matured, making it possible to greatly expand our biological ocean observing capacity. These technologies, including cell imaging, bio-optical sensors and 'omic tools, can be combined to provide overlapping measurements of key biological and ecosystem EOVs. New developments in data management and open sharing can facilitate meaningful synthesis and integration with concurrent physical and chemical data. Here we outline how Bio-GO-SHIP leverages these technological advances to greatly expand our knowledge and understanding of the constituents and function of the global ocean plankton ecosystem.
Shifting Feeding Habits During Settlement Among Small Yellow Croakers (Larimichthys polyactis)
Authors: Chen Yuange , Wang Weilong , Zhou Wei , Hu Fen , Wu Meiqin
Published: January 2022

The small yellow croaker, Larimichthys polyactis, is a keystone species in the Yellow Sea and the East China Sea, with significant impacts on the regional ecosystem, but has experienced decades of population decline as a result of environmental changes and overfishing. The settlement of post-larval L. polyactis is a period of high mortality, with impacts on population recruitment and survival. This study examines the feeding habits of 49 post-larval and early juvenile L. polyactis in the Yangtze River estuary, in order to reveal diet composition before and after the settlement period. DNA barcoding methods (MiSeq and TA cloning) were used to examine gastrointestinal contents in detail. Both methods revealed that dietary breadth increased with increasing body length, while the dominance of copepods in the diet decreased as the body length increased. Post-larva (body length < 17 mm in this study) primarily fed on copepods. At the beginning of settlement (body length between 17 and 19 mm), L. polyactis began to ingest larger organisms, such as fishes and mysids, along with copepods. Larger early juveniles (body length > 20 mm) demonstrated a much wider dietary breadth, implying that successful settlement had occurred. Diet species richness in the MiSeq group was significantly greater than species richness in the TA cloning group, making the trend more pronounced within the MiSeq group. This indicates that the MiSeq method was more efficient than TA cloning in this study. We recommend that future research to investigate the feeding habits of fish larvae should combine MiSeq and visual examination methods.
Quantum Dots: An Emerging Approach for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Devi Sheetal , Kumar Manish , Tiwari Abhishek , Tiwari Varsha , Kaushik Deepak , Verma Ravinder , Bhatt Shailendra , Sahoo Biswa Mohan , Bhattacharya Tanima , Alshehri Sultan , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Babalghith Ahmad O. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: January 2022

Nanotechnology is indisputably a scientific technique that offers the prospect of new therapies, and hope, for the treatment of malignant illnesses. It is a novel technology that offers new approaches for the diagnosis and management of diverse diseases. Although the discovery of Quantum dots (QD) nano-transporters has already led to a few positive developments, QD nano-transporters are still at their initial stage, though have yet proven valuable to society. The excertion of QD indicates conversion in natural imaging along with photograph have established incredible suitability in bio-imaging, new drug development, targeted gene deliverance, biosensing, photodynamic treatment as well as diagnosis. The present review aimed to confer the significance of QD in diagnosis as well as in management of cancer. This review aims to impart fundamental insight as well as conception of QD its merits, properties, utilization as well as mode of action. This review highlight of different designing schemes of QD like hydrothermal, drop-casting, ultrasonic, solvothermal, spin-coating, atomic layer desorption, layer by layer, polymethylmethacrylate aided-transfer, electrochemical, ion beam sputtering deposition. Moreover, we have elaborated on the diverse researches related to cytotoxic examination to reveal that QDs are harmless. Concisely, the present review summarizes the fabrication schemes, current research and utilization of QD in cancer treatment.
A Focused Review on Engineering Application of Multi-Principal Element Alloy
Authors: Chen Yang , Xie Baobin , Liu Bin , Cao Yuankui , Li Jia , Fang Qihong , Liaw Peter K.
Published: January 2022

Compared with traditional alloys with one principal component up to 40–90%, multi-principal element alloys (MPEAs) were born in the complicated intermingling of traditional and non-traditional physical metallurgy, and brings us a great amount of excellent performances. Here, we would briefly summarize the potential applications in some key areas, which is helpful for latecomers to quickly and comprehensively understand this new alloy system. Especially, the applications of MPEAs in aerospace, industrial equipment, national defense, energy, navigation and so on are discussed roughly. Subsequently, several emerging areas have also been compared. Finally, some suggestions are given for the future development trend.
Mechanical Property of Beam-to-Column Connection of Steel Structures With All-Steel Buckling-Restrained Braces
Authors: Gao Jinhe , Xi Jiahuan , Xu Yuwen , Chen Baokui , Zhao Dan , Zhao Xinquan , Chang Yi
Published: January 2022

To avoid brittle fracture and plastic yielding of steel beam-to-column connections under earthquakes, a new beam-to-column connection of steel structures with all-steel buckling restrained braces (BRBs) is proposed. The all-steel BRB is connected to the steel beam and column members through pins to form a new connection system. Taking the T-shaped beam-to-column connection steel structure as the research object, two structural types with an all-steel BRB installed on one side (S-type) and two sides (D-type) are considered. Theoretical equations of the connection system’s initial stiffness and yield load are derived through the mechanical models. The yield load, main strain distribution, energy dissipation, and stiffness of the connection system are investigated through quasi-static tests to verify the connection system’s seismic performance. The tests revealed that the proposed new connection system is capable of achieving a stable hysteresis behavior. At the end of loading, the beam and column members are not damaged, and the plastic deformation is concentrated in the plastic energy dissipating replaceable BRB, and the beam and column basically remain elastic. The proposed equations approximately estimated the load response of the proposed connection system. The results show that the damage mode of this new connection system under seismic loading is BRB yielding, with an elastic response from the beam-column members.
Human Amniotic Epithelial Cells Secretome: Components, Bioactivity, and Challenges
Authors: Fathi Ibrahim , Miki Toshio
Published: January 2022

Human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) derived from placental tissue have received significant attention as a promising tool in regenerative medicine. Several studies demonstrated their anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and tissue repair potentials. These effects were further shown to be retained in the conditioned medium of hAECs, suggesting their paracrine nature. The concept of utilizing the hAEC-secretome has thus evolved as a therapeutic cell-free option. In this article, we review the different components and constituents of hAEC-secretome and their influence as demonstrated through experimental studies in the current literature. Studies examining the effects of conditioned medium, exosomes, and micro-RNA (miRNA) derived from hAECs are included in this review. The challenges facing the application of this cell-free approach will also be discussed based on the current evidence.
Prevalence, Incidence, and Associated Factors of Possible Sarcopenia in Community-Dwelling Chinese Older Adults: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study
Authors: Chen Zi , Ho Mandy , Chau Pui Hing
Published: January 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, incidence, and associated factors of possible sarcopenia in a nationwide representative sample of the community-dwelling older Chinese population.

Methods:This study used the data of participants aged 60 years and over from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Data on participants from three waves (2011–2015) of CHARLS were extracted. Possible sarcopenia was defined as low muscle strength or low physical performance, based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 consensus. We first described baseline prevalence and four-year incidence of possible sarcopenia. Then multiple logistic regression and multivariable parametric proportional hazard model with Weibull distribution were used to examine the association of risk factors with baseline prevalence and four-year incidence of possible sarcopenia, respectively.

Results:The prevalence of possible sarcopenia was 46.0%. The four-year incidence of possible sarcopenia was 11.9 per 100 person-years. Multivariable analysis revealed that advanced age and depressive symptoms were associated with increased prevalence of possible sarcopenia, while receiving education and moderate or high physical activity were associated with a lower risk of possible sarcopenia prevalence. For incidence, only advanced age was associated with an increased risk of possible sarcopenia incidence.

Conclusion:Our study revealed the substantial burden of possible sarcopenia and related risk factors in community-dwelling settings in China. It highlighted the importance of early detection and intervention in this subclinical group for the prevention of sarcopenia.
Efficacy and Safety of Faecal Microbiota Transplantation for Acute Pancreatitis: A Randomised, Controlled Study
Authors: Ding Ling , He Cong , Li Xueyang , Huang Xin , Lei Yupeng , Ke Huajing , Chen Hongyan , Yang Qinyu , Cai Yan , Liao Yuanhang , He Wenhua , Xia Liang , Xiong Huifang , Lu Nonghua , Zhu Yin
Published: January 2022

Aims: We investigated whether faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) decreases intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) and improves gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction and infectious complications in acute pancreatitis (AP).

Methods: In this first randomised, single-blind, parallel-group, controlled study, we recruited and enrolled consecutive patients with AP complicated with GI dysfunction. Eligible participants were randomly assigned to receive faecal transplant (n = 30) or normal saline (n = 30) via a nasoduodenal tube once and then again 2 days later. The primary endpoint was the rate of IAP decline; secondary endpoints were GI function, infectious complications, organ failure, hospital stay and mortality. Analyses were based on intention to treat.

Results: We enrolled 60 participants and randomly assigned them to the FMT (n = 30) or control (n = 30) group. Baseline characteristics and disease severity were similar for both groups. IAP decreased significantly 1 week after intervention in both groups, with no difference in the IAP decline rate between FMT and Control group [0.1 (−0.6, 0.5) vs. 0.2 (−0.2, 0.6); P = 0.27]. Normal gastrointestinal failure (GIF) scores were achieved in 12 (40%) patients in the FMT group and 14 (47%) in the control group, with no significant difference (P = 0.60). However, D-lactate was significantly elevated in the FMT group compared to the control group, as calculated by the rate of decline [−0.3 (−3.7, 0.8) vs. 0.4 (−1.1, 0.9); P = 0.01]. Infectious complications occurred in 15 (50%) and 16 (53.33%) patients in the FMT and control groups, respectively (P = 0.80). However, interleukin-6 (IL-6) was significantly elevated in the FMT group compared to the control group, as calculated by the rate of decline [0.4 (−3.6, 0.9) vs. 0.8 (−1.7, 1.0); P = 0.03]. One participant experienced transient nausea immediately after FMT, but no serious adverse events were attributed to FMT.

Conclusion: FMT had no obvious effect on IAP and infectious complications in AP patients, though GI barrier indictors might be adversely affected. Further multi-centre studies are needed to confirm our findings. The study was registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02318134).
Identification of a Three-Glycolysis-Related lncRNA Signature Correlated With Prognosis and Metastasis in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Li Tinghao , Tong Hang , Zhu Junlong , Qin Zijia , Yin Siwen , Sun Yan , Liu Xudong , He Weiyang
Published: January 2022

The clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is not only a malignant disease but also an energy metabolic disease, we aimed to identify a novel prognostic model based on glycolysis-related long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) and explore its mechanisms. With the use of Pearson correlation analysis between the glycolysis-related differentially expressed genes and lncRNAs from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset, we identified three glycolysis-related lncRNAs and successfully constructed a prognostic model based on their expression. The diagnostic efficacy and the clinically predictive capacity of the signature were evaluated by univariate and multivariate Cox analyses, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA). The glycolysis-related lncRNA signature was constructed based on the expressions of AC009084.1, AC156455.1, and LINC00342. Patients were grouped into high- or low-risk groups according to risk score demonstrated significant differences in overall survival (OS) period, which were validated by patients with ccRCC from the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database. Univariate Cox analyses, multivariate Cox analyses, and constructed nomogram-confirmed risk score based on our signature were independent prognosis predictors. The CIBERSORT algorithms demonstrated significant correlations between three-glycolysis-related lncRNAs and the tumor microenvironment (TME) components. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated potential pathways and processes correlated with the risk model. Clinical samples validated expression levels of three-glycolysis-related lncRNAs, and LINC00342 demonstrated the most significant aberrant expression. in vitro, the general overexpression of LINC00342 was detected in ccRCC cells. After silencing LINC00342, the aberrant glycolytic levels and migration abilities in 786-O cells were decreased significantly, which might be explained by suppressed Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and reversed Epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) process. Collectively, our research identified a novel three-glycolysis-related lncRNA signature as a promising model for generating accurate prognoses for patients with ccRCC, and silencing lncRNA LINC00342 from the signature could partly inhibit the glycolysis level and migration of ccRCC cells.
Identification of SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Their Clinical Significance in Hefei, China
Authors: Cheng Xiao-wen , Li Jie , Zhang Lu , Hu Wen-jun , Zong Lu , Xu Xiang , Qiao Jin-ping , Zheng Mei-juan , Jiang Xi-wen , Liang Zhi-kun , Zhou Yi-fan , Zhang Ning , Zhu Hua-qing , Xu Yuan-hong
Published: January 2022

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic represents one of the most exigent threats of our lifetime to global public health and economy. As part of the pandemic, from January 10 to March 10, 2020, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) began to spread in Hefei (Anhui Province, China) with a total of 174 confirmed cases of COVID-19. During this period, we were able to gather critical information on the transmission and evolution of pathogens through genomic surveillance. Particularly, the objective of our study was to track putative variants of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in Hefei for the first time and contribute to the global effort toward elucidating the molecular epidemic profile of the virus. Patients who showed symptoms of COVID-19 were routinely tested for SARS-CoV-2 infections via RT-PCR at the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on 97 clinical samples collected from 29 confirmed COVID-19 patients. As a result, we identified a local novel single-nucleotide polymorphism site (10,380) harboring a G → T mutation (Gly → Val) in Hefei. Further phylogenetic network analysis with all the sequences of SARS-CoV-2 deposited in GenBank collected in East and Southeast Asia revealed a local subtype of S-type SARS-CoV-2 (a1) harboring a C → T synonymous mutation (Leu) at position 18,060 of ORF1b, likely representing a local SARS-CoV-2 mutation site that is obviously concentrated in Hefei and the Yangtze River Delta region. Moreover, clinical investigation on the inflammatory cytokine profile of the patients suggested that mutations at positions 18,060 (the shared variable site of subtype a1) and 28,253(harboring a C → T synonymous mutation, Phe) were associated with milder immune responses in the patients.
Distribution of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Human T-Leukemia Virus Co-infection in Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Pereira Felicidade Mota , Santos Fred Luciano Neves , Silva Ângelo Antônio Oliveira , Nascimento Nathan Menezes , Almeida Maria da Conceição Chagas , Carreiro Roberto Perez , Galvão-Castro Bernardo , Rios Grassi Maria Fernanda
Published: January 2022

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Human T-Leukemia Virus (HTLV) are retroviruses that share similar routes of transmission. In Brazil, the prevalence of HIV and HTLV varies according to geographic region. The state of Bahia, located in the Northeast region, is considered endemic for both retroviruses. The present study aimed to characterize the frequency of HIV/HTLV coinfection and evaluate the geographic distribution of coinfection throughout the state. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the state's Central Laboratory of Public Health (LACEN-BA) and included all samples from 2004 to 2013 submitted to serological testing for anti-HIV and anti-HTLV-1/2, screened by chemiluminescence/ELISA and confirmed by Western blot. Infection rates are expressed as the number of infected individuals per 100,000 inhabitants from each municipality. A total of 129,158 samples originating from 358/417 (85.8%) municipalities in Bahia were evaluated. HTLV was detected in 2.4% of the HIV-positive samples (n = 42) compared to 0.5% of those with negative HIV serology (n = 677) (OR: 4.65; CI: 3.39–6.37). HIV/HTLV coinfection was more frequent in women (69.0%); the median age of coinfected individuals was 47.2 years [interquartile range (IQR): 41.6–55.4 years]. In the 14/417 (3.4%) municipalities where at least one case of HIV/HTLV coinfection was detected, the overall HTLV coinfection rate in HIV-positive samples was 0.25 (range: 0.17–13.84) per 100,000 inhabitants. Most cases of HIV/HTLV-1 coinfection (21/37, 57%) were concentrated in the municipality of Salvador. Isolated instances (one or two cases) of HIV/HTLV-1 coinfection were distributed across municipalities known to be endemic for HTLV infection.