bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attenuation of Excess TNF-α Release in Crohn’s Disease by Silencing of iRHOMs 1/2 and the Restoration of TGF-β Mediated Immunosuppression Through Modulation of TACE Trafficking
Authors: Louis Taylor J. , Qasem Ahmad , Naser Saleh A.
Published: May 2022

TNFα converting enzyme (TACE) is a transmembrane metalloprotease that sheds an assortment of signaling receptors, cytokines, growth factors, and pro-inflammatory mediators. In Crohn’s disease (CD), TACE activity is upregulated, resulting in a marked increase of TNFα secretion and inflammation. Although treatment of CD with TNFα monoclonal antibodies is beneficial, many patients are at risk for acquiring opportunistic infections, and the treatment efficacy of TNFα monoclonal antibodies typically decreases over time. This study investigated an alternative approach for mitigating TNFα release by knocking down TACE membrane translocation in macrophages via inhibitory rhomboid proteins 1 and 2 (iRHOMs 1/2) siRNA treatment. First we measured TGFβRII shedding in ex vivo plasma samples collected from CD patients and healthy control subjects (N=40 per group). Then, we measured TGFβRII shedding and the expression and production of TGFβ ligand, TNFα, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10, and total versus membranous TACE in vitro with THP-1 derived macrophage infected with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), a highly studied CD-related pathogen. We determined that TGFβRII shedding was significantly higher in CD patients compared to healthy controls [515.52 ± 54.23 pg/mL vs 310.81 ± 43.16 pg/mL, respectively], and MAP-infected CD plasma samples had significantly more TGFβRII shedding (601.83 ± 49.56 pg/mL) than MAP-negative CD samples (430.37 ± 45.73 pg/mL). Moreover, we also determined that TACE production; TGFβ ligand expression and production; and TGFβRII shedding were also higher in MAP-infected THP-1 macrophages. Nevertheless, once we transfected the MAP infected macrophages with iRHOM siRNA, TACE production and membrane localization were significantly decreased, resulting in a significant decrease in TGFβRII shedding; an increase in Smad3 phosphorylation; a decrease in the expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines; and a decrease in the expression and production of stricture-associated factor, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). Our data clearly demonstrates that the regression of TACE trafficking, via iRHOM 1/2 silencing, significantly reduces the release of TNFα and restores the immunosuppressive capabilities of TGFβ signaling, which ultimately reverses inflammatory tissue damage. Accordingly, this study may provide a framework for the creation of newer, safer therapeutic options designed to treat inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as CD and rheumatoid arthritis.
Putative Degradation of Non-Stored Sperm in the Female Reproductive Tract of the Dengue Vector Mosquito Aedes aegypti
Authors: Agudelo Juliana , Toro Miguel , Ramírez-Sánchez Luis Felipe , Barrientos Luisa M. , Alfonso-Parra Catalina , Avila Frank W.
Published: April 2022

In insect vectors of disease, male and female molecules that mediate reproductive processes are promising targets to suppress fertility of these populations. One process, the storage of sperm in the female reproductive tract, is essential for optimal fertility in all organisms examined to date. In the dengue vector mosquito Aedes aegypti, female sperm storage has not been fully characterized, a requirement to identify sex-specific molecules that mediate this process. Aedes aegypti males deposit the ejaculate into the bursa of the female reproductive tract, and sperm enter the spermathecae—the long-term storage sites—quickly after insemination. However, the proportion of sperm received during mating that are stored in the spermathecae is unclear, and the fate of non-stored sperm unknown. We quantified sperm storage in two Ae. aegypti strains, mated in all combinations, and in two contexts (mass mated and when mating was observed) at 1-, 3- and 5-days post-mating. Sperm quantity in the spermathecae was similar at all timepoints; most females stored ~400 sperm on average. Sperm that did not enter the spermathecae remained in the bursa, where they declined in number and became more fragile to mechanical manipulation at each timepoint. Further, sperm viability in the bursa fell from 91.6% shortly after mating to 12.2% 24 h later. One day after insemination, ~50% of sperm detected in the female reproductive tract was stored in the spermathecae. When we quantified sperm storage in females mated to males that transferred reduced ejaculate quantities (but still able to induce optimal fertility in their mates), sperm detected in the spermathecae similarly declined; females stored ~50% of the sperm received even as sperm quantities transferred at mating declined. Our results suggest that sperm storage in Ae. aegypti females is influenced by ejaculate volume, and that sperm that do not enter the spermathecae remain in the bursa, where they appear to degrade. The consistent presence of sperm in the bursa, even when males transferred low sperm quantities, suggests that the putative degradation of bursa sperm may play a role in Ae. aegypti female fertility, potentially identifying a novel process in this important vector species.
Effects of Shellfish and Macro-Algae IMTA in North China on the Environment, Inorganic Carbon System, Organic Carbon System, and Sea–Air CO2 Fluxes
Authors: Liu Yi , Zhang Jihong , Wu Wenguang , Zhong Yi , Li Hongmei , Wang Xinmeng , Yang Jun , Zhang Yongyu
Published: April 2022

Shellfish and macro-algae integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) contribute greatly to the sustainability of aquaculture. However, the effects of large-scale shellfish and macro-algae aquaculture on the functions of the ocean carbon sink are not clear. To clarify these effects, we studied the spatial and temporal changes of inorganic and organic carbon systems in seawater under different aquaculture modes (monoculture or polyculture of shellfish and macro-algae) in Sanggou Bay, together with the variation of other environmental factors. The results show that the summertime dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in the shellfish culture zone was significantly lower than other zones (p < 0.05), with a minimum value of 7.07 ± 0.25 mg/L. The variation of pH and total alkalinity (TA) were large across different culture modes, and the seawater in the shellfish culture zone had the lowest pH and TA than the other zones. Seasonal environment and aquaculture modes significantly affected the variation of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), CO2 partial pressure (pCO2), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and particulate organic carbon (POC) concentrations. The highest values of DIC, pCO2, and POC appeared in summer, and the lowest appeared in winter. For DOC concentration, the lowest value appeared in autumn. Spatially, DIC and pCO2 were highest in the shellfish culture zone and lowest in the macro-algae culture zone, DOC was highest in the macro-algae culture zone and lowest in the shellfish culture zone, and POC was lower in the shellfish culture zone and macro-algae culture zone and higher in the remaining zones. The results of sea–air CO2 fluxes showed that except for the shellfish culture zone during summertime, which released CO2 to the atmosphere, all culture zones were the sinks of atmospheric CO2 during the culture period, with the whole bay being a strong CO2 sink during autumn and winter. In summary, large-scale shellfish–macro-algae IMTA plays an important role in the local carbon cycle and contributes to mitigating ocean acidification and hypoxia.
Histologic and Molecular Patterns in Responders and Non-responders With Chronic-Active Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplants
Authors: Sazpinar Onur , Gaspert Ariana , Sidler Daniel , Rechsteiner Markus , Mueller Thomas F.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

There is no proven therapy for chronic-active antibody-mediated rejection (caABMR), the major cause of late kidney allograft failure. Histological and molecular patterns associated with possible therapy responsiveness are not known.

Methods

Based on rigorous selection criteria this single center, retrospective study identified 16 out of 1027 consecutive kidney transplant biopsies taken between 2008 and 2016 with pure, unquestionable caABMR, without other pathologic features. The change in estimated GFR pre- and post-biopsy/treatment were utilized to differentiate subjects into responders and non-responders. Gene sets reflecting active immune processes of caABMR were defined a priori, including endothelial, inflammatory, cellular, interferon gamma (IFNg) and calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) related-genes based on the literature. Transcript measurements were performed in RNA extracted from stored, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples using NanoString™ technology. Histology and gene expression patterns of responders and non-responders were compared.

Results

A reductionist approach applying very tight criteria to identify caABMR and treatment response excluded the vast majority of clinical ABMR cases. Only 16 out of 139 cases with a written diagnosis of chronic rejection fulfilled the caABMR criteria. Histological associations with therapy response included a lower peritubular capillaritis score (p = 0.028) along with less glomerulitis. In contrast, no single gene discriminated responders from non-responders. Activated genes associated with NK cells and endothelial cells suggested lack of treatment response.

Conclusion

In caABMR active microvascular injury, in particular peritubular capillaritis, differentiates treatment responders from non-responders. Transcriptome changes in NK cell and endothelial cell associated genes may further help to identify treatment response. Future prospective studies will be needed which include more subjects, who receive standardized treatment protocols to identify biomarkers for treatment response.

Clinical Trial Registration

[ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT03430414].
Dermatological and Dermoscopic Baselines in BRCA Mutation Carriers
Authors: Paolino Giovanni , Pampena Riccardo , Di Nicola Matteo Riccardo , Longo Caterina , Rognone Alessia , Zambelli Stefania , Bianchini Giampaolo , Mercuri Santo Raffaele
Published: April 2022

Breast cancer-associated genes 1 and 2 (BRCA1 and BRCA2) are tumor suppressor genes encoding a large protein that is involved in many essential biological processes. BRCA mutated patients show an increased risk to develop several malignancies, including cutaneous malignancies, although inconsistently across multiple studies. We carried out an observational study on the main dermatological and dermoscopic aspects in a population of patients with BRCA 1/2 mutations, to identify the main clinical and dermoscopical features in this class of patients. A total of 52 patients with BRCA mutations were included in the current analysis. Clinical, dermoscopical, and pathological data were obtained during the dermatologic visits. Out of the entire cohort, 67.3% of patients showed brown hairs and 63.5% of patients showed brown eyes, with phototype III as the most frequent phototype (69.2%). A total of 2.017 melanocytic lesions in all patients were analyzed; specifically, 40 patients (76.9%) showed a total number of nevi > 10, while regarding the main observed dermoscopic features, a prevalence of reticular pattern in 63% of cases was observed, followed by a mixed pattern in 19.2% of cases. Regarding the cutaneous examination, eruptive angiomas (eCAs) were the main dermatologic manifestations in 46.2% of patients. Out of 52 patients and during a follow-up of 24 months one patient developed an in situ melanoma. Interestingly, none of the patients with eCAs showed a TN > 10, highlighting an inverse correlation. To date, there is insufficient evidence to warrant increased surveillance in patients with BRCA mutations or with a positive family history for BRCA mutations, in the absence of standard cutaneous risk factors. Further studies with larger samples of patients are needed to better investigate dermatological and dermatoscopic features in BRCA mutation carriers.
Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized, Single Blind, Cross-Over Study on the Effect of a Fixed Combination of Citicoline 500 mg Plus Homotaurine 50 mg on Pattern Electroretinogram (PERG) in Patients With Open Angle Glaucoma on Well Controlled Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Rossi Gemma Caterina Maria , Rolle Teresa , De Silvestri Annalisa , Sisto Dario , Mavilio Alberto , Mirabile Alessandra Venera , Paviglianiti Alessia , Strano Beatrice , Picasso Erica , Pasinetti Gian Maria , Milano Giovanni , Ruberto Giulio
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the potential beneficial and synergistic effects of oral intake of a fixed combination of citicoline 500 mg plus homotaurine 50 mg (CIT/HOMO) on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function in subjects with glaucoma using pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and to investigate the effects on visual field and quality of life.

Methods

Consecutive patients with primary open-angle glaucoma with controlled IOP (<18 mmHg) receiving beta-blockers and prostaglandin analogs alone or as combination therapy (fixed or un-fixed); with stable disease (progression no more than −1 dB/year at the visual field MD); and an early to moderate visual field defect (MD < −12 dB) were randomized to: arm A. topical therapy + CIT/HOMO for 4 months, 2 months of wash out, 4 months of topical therapy alone; arm B. topical therapy alone for 4 months, topical therapy + CIT/HOMO for 4 months, 2 months of wash out. All patients underwent 4 visits: complete ocular examination, visual field, PERG and quality of life assessment (NEI-VFQ25) were performed at each visit.

Results

Fifty-seven patients completed the study: 26 in group A and 31 in group B. At the end of the intake period, PERG's P50 and N95 waves recorded a greater amplitude. The increase was statistically significant in the inferior and superior P50 waves amplitude: 0.47 μV (95%CI, 0.02–0.93; p = 0.04) and 0.65 μV (95% CI, 0.16–1.13; p = 0.009), respectively, and in the inferior N95 wave amplitude 0.63 μV (95% CI, 0.22–1.04; p = 0.002). A significantly shorter peak time of 3.3 μV (95% CI, −6.01– −0.54; p = 0.01) was observed for the superior P50 wave only.

Conclusions

Daily oral intake of the fixed combination CIT/HOMO for 4 months improved the function of inner retinal cells recorded by PERG in the inferior and in the superior quadrants, independently from IOP reduction. This interesting association could represent a valid option for practicing neuromodulation in patients with glaucoma to prevent disease progression.
Use of Carboxyhemoglobin as an Early Sign of Oxygenator Dysfunction in Patients Supported by Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Cousin Vladimir L. , Giraud Raphaël , Assouline Benjamin , Silva Ivo Neto , Bendjelid Karim
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Plasma free hemoglobin is the gold standard for monitoring hemolysis in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) but its routine use has some limitations. Carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) is also a marker of intravascular hemolysis. We aimed to investigate HbCO as a marker of both hemolysis and oxygenator dysfunction in patients supported by ECMO.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients on ECMO in an adult ICU in a tertiary hospital. HbCO was recorded every 6 h in the 48 h before and after oxygenator change in adult patients on ECMO support with an oxygenator dysfunction and replacement.

Results

The investigation of 27 oxygenators replacements in 19 patients demonstrated that HbCO values progressively increased over time and then significantly decreased after oxygenator change. Median oxygenator lifespan was 14 days [interquartile range (IQR) 8–21] and there was no correlation between HbCO and oxygenator lifespan [Spearman coefficient 0.23 (p = 0.23)]. HbCO values at oxygenator change [HbCO median 2.7 (IQR 2.5–3.5)] were significantly higher than the HbCO values 1 week before [HbCO median 2.07 (IQR 1.86–2.8)] (p value < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our data highlight the potential role of HbCO as a novel marker for ECMO oxygenator dysfunction.
Functional Redundancy in Soil Microbial Community Based on Metagenomics Across the Globe
Authors: Chen Huaihai , Ma Kayan , Lu Caiyan , Fu Qi , Qiu Yingbo , Zhao Jiayi , Huang Yu , Yang Yuchun , Schadt Christopher W. , Chen Hao
Published: May 2022

Understanding the contribution of soil microbial communities to ecosystem processes is critical for predicting terrestrial ecosystem feedbacks under changing climate. Our current understanding lacks a consistent strategy to formulate the linkage between microbial systems and ecosystem processes due to the presumption of functional redundancy in soil microbes. Here we present a global soil microbial metagenomic analysis to generalize patterns of microbial taxonomic compositions and functional potentials across climate and geochemical gradient. Our analyses show that soil microbial taxonomic composition varies widely in response to climate and soil physicochemical gradients, while microbial functional attributes based on metagenomic gene abundances are redundant. Among 17 climate zones, microbial taxonomic compositions were more distinct than functional potentials, as climate and edaphic properties showed more significant influence on microbial taxonomic compositions than on functional potentials. Microbial taxonomies formed a larger and more complex co-occurrence network with more module structures than functional potentials. Functional network was strongly inter-connected among different categories, whereas taxonomic network was more positively interactive in the same taxonomic groups. This study provides strong evidence to support the hypothesis of functional redundancy in soil microbes, as microbial taxonomic compositions vary to a larger extent than functional potentials based on metagenomic gene abundances in terrestrial ecosystems across the globe.
Inferring Conformational State of Myosin Motor in an Atomic Force Microscopy Image via Flexible Fitting Molecular Simulations
Authors: Fuchigami Sotaro , Takada Shoji
Published: April 2022

High-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) is a powerful technique to image the structural dynamics of biomolecules. We can obtain atomic-resolution structural information from the measured AFM image by superimposing a structural model on the image. We previously developed a flexible fitting molecular dynamics (MD) simulation method that allows for modest conformational changes when superimposed on an AFM image. In this study, for a molecular motor, myosin V (which changes its chemical state), we examined whether the conformationally distinct state in each HS-AFM image could be inferred via flexible fitting MD simulation. We first built models of myosin V bound to the actin filament in two conformational states, the “down-up” and “down-down” states. Then, for the previously obtained HS-AFM image of myosin bound to the actin filament, we performed flexible-fitting MD simulations using the two states. By comparing the fitting results, we inferred the conformational and chemical states from the AFM image.
Characterizing Differences in Functional Connectivity Between Posterior Cortical Atrophy and Semantic Dementia by Seed-Based Approach
Authors: Chen Yi , Zeng Qingze , Wang Yunyun , Luo Xiao , Sun Yan , Zhang Lumi , Liu Xiaoyan , Li Kaicheng , Zhang Minming , Peng Guoping
Published: April 2022

Background

Posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) and semantic dementia (SD) are focal syndromes involving different cerebral regions. This study aimed to demonstrate the existence of abnormal functional connectivity (FC) with an affected network in PCA and SD.

Methods

A total of 10 patients with PCA, 12 patients with SD, and 11 controls were recruited to undergo a detailed clinical history interview and physical examination, neuropsychological assessments, and PET/MRI scan. Seed-based FC analyses were conducted to construct FC in language network, visual network, and salience network. The two-sample t-test was performed to reveal distinct FC patterns in PCA and SD, and we further related the FC difference to cognition. Meanwhile, the uptake value of fluorodeoxyglucose in regions with FC alteration was also extracted for comparison.

Results

We found a global cognitive impairment in patients with PCA and SD. The results of FC analyses showed that patients with PCA present decreased FC in left precentral gyrus to left V1 and increased FC in right inferior frontal gyrus to right V1 in the visual network, right medial frontal gyrus and left fusiform to left anterior temporal lobe and post-superior temporal gyrus in the language network, and left superior temporal gyrus to left anterior insula in the salience network, which were related to cognitive function. Patients with SD had decreased FC from right superior frontal gyrus, right middle frontal gyrus and right superior frontal gyrus to left anterior temporal lobe, or post-superior temporal gyrus in the language network, as well as left superior frontal gyrus to right anterior insula in the salience network, positively relating to cognitive function, but increased FC in the right superior temporal gyrus to left anterior temporal lobe in the language network, and right insula and left anterior cingulum to right anterior insula in the salience network, negatively relating to cognitive function. Most of the regions with FC change in patients with PCA and SD had abnormal metabolism simultaneously.

Conclusion

Abnormal connectivity spread over the cortex involving language and salience networks was common in patients with PCA and SD, whereas FC change involving the visual network was unique to patients with PCA. The FC changes were matched for cognitive deficits.
Neurotransmitter and Related Metabolic Profiling in the Nucleus Accumbens of Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress-Induced Anhedonia-Like Rats
Authors: Li Yan , Chen Zhi , Zhao Jianting , Yu Heming , Chen Xiangyu , He Yong , Tian Yu , Wang Yue , Chen Chong , Cheng Ke , Xie Peng
Published: April 2022

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a serious mental disorder that affects many people. The neurotransmitter deficiency hypothesis has been the crux of much research on the treatment of depression. Anhedonia, as a core symptom, was closely associated with altered levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), dopamine (DA), and diverse types of glutamate (Glu) receptors in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). However, there were no reports showing how Glu changed in the NAc, and there were other unreported molecules involved in modulating stress-induced anhedonia. Thus, we investigated changes in neurotransmitters and their related metabolites in GABAergic, serotonergic and catecholaminergic pathways in the NAc of a rat model of chronic unpredictable mild stress- (CUMS-) induced anhedonia-like behavior. Then, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was employed to detect target neurotransmitters and related metabolites in the NAc. Finally, the Western blot was used to assess the expression of key enzymes and receptors. Here, we found that the 5-HT level in anhedonia-susceptible (Sus) rats was increased while the Glu level decreased. DA did not show a significant change among CUMS rats. Correspondingly, we detected a reduction in monoamine oxidase-A (MAOA) and Glu receptor 1 levels in anhedonia-Sus rats while Glu receptor 2 (GluR2) and NMDA2B levels were increased in anhedonia-resilient (Res) rats. We also found that the levels of glutamine (Gln), kynurenic acid (Kya), histamine (HA), L-phenylalanine (L-Phe), and tyramine (Tyra) were changed after CUMS. These alterations in neurotransmitters may serve as a new insight into understanding the development of anhedonia-like behavior in depression.
Enhancing Nutrition Care Through Real-Time, Sensor-Based Capture of Eating Occasions: A Scoping Review
Authors: Wang Leanne , Allman-Farinelli Margaret , Yang Jiue-An , Taylor Jennifer C. , Gemming Luke , Hekler Eric , Rangan Anna
Published: May 2022

As food intake patterns become less structured, different methods of dietary assessment may be required to capture frequently omitted snacks, smaller meals, and the time of day when they are consumed. Incorporating sensors that passively and objectively detect eating behavior may assist in capturing these eating occasions into dietary assessment methods. The aim of this study was to identify and collate sensor-based technologies that are feasible for dietitians to use to assist with performing dietary assessments in real-world practice settings. A scoping review was conducted using the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) framework. Studies were included if they were published between January 2016 and December 2021 and evaluated the performance of sensor-based devices for identifying and recording the time of food intake. Devices from included studies were further evaluated against a set of feasibility criteria to determine whether they could potentially be used to assist dietitians in conducting dietary assessments. The feasibility criteria were, in brief, consisting of an accuracy ≥80%; tested in settings where subjects were free to choose their own foods and activities; social acceptability and comfort; a long battery life; and a relatively rapid detection of an eating episode. Fifty-four studies describing 53 unique devices and 4 device combinations worn on the wrist (n = 18), head (n = 16), neck (n = 9), and other locations (n = 14) were included. Whilst none of the devices strictly met all feasibility criteria currently, continuous refinement and testing of device software and hardware are likely given the rapidly changing nature of this emerging field. The main reasons devices failed to meet the feasibility criteria were: an insufficient or lack of reporting on battery life (91%), the use of a limited number of foods and behaviors to evaluate device performance (63%), and the device being socially unacceptable or uncomfortable to wear for long durations (46%). Until sensor-based dietary assessment tools have been designed into more inconspicuous prototypes and are able to detect most food and beverage consumption throughout the day, their use will not be feasible for dietitians in practice settings.
Evaluation of a Witch Hazel Extract for the Potential Prebiotic and Protective Effect on Select Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (Prev. Lactobacillus plantarum) Strains
Authors: Failla Morgan , Lee Jungyun , Rasooly Reuven , Apostolidis Emmanouil
Published: April 2022

Witch hazel extract has been evaluated in prior studies demonstrating the phenolic-mediated biofilm inhibition, toxin production inhibition, and growth inhibition in Staphylococcus aureus. In this study, we are evaluating the possible prebiotic and protective effect of witch hazel extract on select probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains, namely L. plantarum LP 10241 and L. plantarum LPBAA-793. When the prebiotic effect was evaluated, we observed that the tested extract had prebiotic effect at the higher tested dose (0.5%) on LPBAA-793 strain (8.7 log CFU/mL after 18 h compared to 5.1 log CFU/mL with the control) and on LP 10241 strain (7.7 log CFU/mL after 18 h compared to 4.4 log CFU/mL with the control). For the evaluation of the protective effect of witch hazel extract on the select strains, we subjected nutrient depletion stress under aerobic conditions and monitored the cell death with and without addition of witch hazel extract. We observed that the tested extract had a significant protective effect on LPBAA-793 strain (4 log CFU/mL after 12 days, compared to no growth with control) and a slighter protective effect against LP 10241 strains (6.3 log CFU/mL in day 2 compared to 4.3 log CFU/mL with control). The results from this research provide for the first time the rationale that while witch hazel extract has significant antimicrobial, anti-toxin production and anti-biofilm activities on pathogenic microorganisms, it might play an important and positive role on health-beneficial probiotic bacteria.
Patterns of Multimodality Management of Gastric Cancer—Single Institutional Experience of 372 Cases From a Tertiary Care Center in North India
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Kumar Naveen , Deo Suryanarayana , Bhoriwal Sandeep , Mandal Amitabha , Sharma Atul , Pathy Sushmita , Das Prasenjit , Thulkar Sanjay , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Worldwide gastric cancer is the 5th most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of gastrointestinal cancer-related deaths. Alone surgery provides long-term survival improvements in 20% of the patients with local advanced gastric cancer. The results can be improved considering multimodal management including chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, in low middle-income countries like India, multimodal management is challenging. Herein, we evaluated the experience of multimodal management of gastric cancer and the long-term outcome.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of the data of 372 patients was done from a prospectively maintained computerized database from 1994 to 2021. Records were analyzed for demographic details, treatment patterns, recurrences, and long-term outcomes (DFS and OS). Statistical analysis was done with the package SPSS version 26 (IBM Corp, Chicago, Illinois, USA).

Results

This study included 372 patients. The mean age of the patients was 54.07. A total of 307 patients (82.5%) were operated upfront, 45 (12%) received NACT, and 20 (5.5%) underwent the palliative procedure. A total of 53.2% underwent curative resection. R0 resection rate was achieved in 95% of patients. A total of 72.58% of patients required adjuvant treatment, and the majority of the patients underwent chemoradiotherapy. The most common site of metastasis was the liver. Median follow-up was 50.16 months. The 3-year disease-free survival and overall survival were 36.28% and 67.8%, and the 5-year disease-free survival and overall survival were 30.15% and 37.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study suggested that multimodal management is required in locally advanced gastric cancer to achieve good long-term outcomes. The treatment sequence can be tailored based on the available resources.
The Expression of Pyroptosis-Related Gene May Influence the Occurrence, Development, and Prognosis of Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Xiaoling , Li Yangyi , Li Jiena , Yang Xinbin , Xiao Jianfeng , Xu Feng
Published: April 2022

Background

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that pyroptosis exerts key roles in the occurrence, development, and prognosis of uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC). However, the mechanism of pyroptosis and its predictive value for prognosis remain largely unknown.

Methods

UCEC data were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The differentially expressed genes in UCEC vs. normal cases were selected to perform a weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA). Forty-two UCEC-associated pyroptosis-related genes were identified via applying differential expression analysis. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) and gene correlation analyses were applied to explore the relationship between 21 UCEC key genes and 42 UCEC-associated pyroptosis-related genes. The expression of 42 UCEC-associated pyroptosis-related genes of different grades was also calculated. The immune environment of UCEC was evaluated. Furthermore, pyroptosis-related genes were filtered out by the co-expression. Univariate and a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox analyses were implemented to yield a pyroptosis-related gene model. We also performed consensus classification to regroup UCEC samples into two clusters. A clinically relevant heatmap and survival analysis curve were implemented to explore the clinicopathological features and relationship between two clusters. Furthermore, a Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was implemented to analyze the risk model.

Results

Twenty-one UCEC key genes and 42 UCEC-associated pyroptosis-related genes were identified. The PPI and gene correlation analysis showed a clear relationship. The expression of 42 UCEC-associated pyroptosis-related genes of different grades was also depicted. A risk model based on pyroptosis-related genes was then developed to forecast overall survival among UCEC patients. Finally, Cox regression analysis verified this model as an independent risk factor for UCEC patients.

Conclusions

The expression of pyroptosis-related gene may influence UCEC occurrence, development, and prognosis.
Ability of TyG Index as a Marker of Insulin Resistance in Argentinean School Children
Authors: Hirschler Valeria , Molinari Claudia , Edit Scaiola , Miorin Cecilia , Bocco Patricia , Guntsche Zelmira , Lapertosa Silvia , Gonzalez Claudio D.
Published: May 2022

Objective

To determine if the triglycerides and glucose index (TyG) can be used as a marker for insulin resistance (IR) in Argentinean schoolchildren according to age and sex.

Methods

Anthropometric data, blood glucose levels, lipid profiles, and insulin levels were measured. The TyG index was defined by Ln [fasting triglyceride (mg/dL)* fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2]. A comparison of the ability of TyG to identify children with IR was performed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the ROC (AUROC) curve. IR was defined as HOMA-IR > III quartile.

Results

A total of 915 (528, 57.7% males) apparently healthy schoolchildren, aged 9.3 ± 2.2, were evaluated. The AUROC using the HOMA-IR > III quartile as the dichotomous variable showed that TyG was a fair marker to identify IR (0.65, 95% CI, 0.61–0.69; p < 0.01). There was a significantly higher TyG AUROC in males (0.69, 95% CI, 0.63–0.75; p < 001) than in females (0.60, 95% CI, 0.54–0.66; p < 0.01). When children were divided according to age into two groups (5.0–9.9 and 10.0–14.9-year-olds); younger children (0.64, 95% CI, 0.58–0.69; p < 0.011) and older children (0.62, 95% CI, 0.55–0.68; p = 0.01) had a similar and fair AUROC. However, when children were divided by age and sex, females older than ten had a non-significant AUROC (0.53, 95% CI, 0.42–0.63; p = 0.61). The TyG index compared with HOMA-IR had low sensitivity and specificity, ranging from 0.62 to 0.56.

Conclusion

The TyG index had a fair AUROC with low sensitivity and specificity, indicating poor discrimination in identifying IR in apparently healthy Argentinean children. The ability to use TyG for screening purposes seems limited in Argentinean schoolchildren.
Predicting Risk Propensity Through Player Behavior in DOTA 2: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lyu Sihua , Zhao Nan , Zhang Yichuan , Chen Wenwen , Zhou Haiyan , Zhu Tingshao
Published: April 2022

As traditional methods such as questionnaires for measuring risk propensity are not applicable in some scenarios, a nonintrusive method that could automatically identify individuals' risk propensity could be valuable. This study utilized Defense of the Ancients 2 (DOTA 2) single match data and historical statistics to train predictive models to identify risk propensity by machine learning methods. Self-reported risk propensity scores from 218 DOTA 2 players were paired with their behavioral metrics. The best-performing model occurred with Gaussian process regression. The root mean square error of this model was 1.10, the correlation between predicted scores and self-reported questionnaire scores was 0.44, the R-squared was 0.17, and the test–retest reliability was 0.67. We discussed how selected behavioral features could contribute to predicting risk propensity and how the approach could be of potential value in the application of perceiving individuals' risk propensities. Moreover, the limitations of our study were discussed, and recommendations were made for future studies in this field.
Management Solutions for the Restructuring of Laboratories Associated to the Sentinel Services for Syphilis and Other STIs
Authors: Coutinho Karilany Dantas , Valentim Ricardo A. de M. , Vieira Geir Veras , Sidrim Maíra , Evangelista Pedro Henrique Germano , Oliveira Laís Pereira de
Published: April 2022

This article aims to develop management solutions to accompany the processes of acquiring and distributing equipment and/or materials needed for the restructuring of associated laboratories to the sentinel services (Sentinel Laboratories) for syphilis and other sexually transmitted infection in the scope of the “Syphilis No!” Project. To this end, we have taken steps to create an overview of the restructuring project for the sentinel laboratories, define the stages of project execution, monitor the implementation of the project, and elaborate a standard operating procedure for the delivery of equipment and/or materials to the sentinel laboratories. Among the results, we highlight: the detailed workflow for the process of public procurement through direct purchases or bidding; the workflow for storage of the equipment and materials; the standard operating procedures (SOP) for contact with the laboratories; and the SOP for delivery of items acquired for the sentinel laboratories.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Italy: Predictors of Acceptance, Fence Sitting and Refusal of the COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Zarbo Cristina , Candini Valentina , Ferrari Clarissa , d'Addazio Miriam , Calamandrei Gemma , Starace Fabrizio , Caserotti Marta , Gavaruzzi Teresa , Lotto Lorella , Tasso Alessandra , Zamparini Manuel , de Girolamo Giovanni
Published: April 2022

Background

The hesitancy in taking the COVID-19 vaccine is a global challenge. The need to identify predictors of COVID-19 vaccine reluctance is critical. Our objectives were to evaluate sociodemographic, psychological, and behavioral factors, as well as attitudes and beliefs that influence COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in the general population of Italy.

Methods

A total of 2,015 people were assessed in two waves (March, April and May, 2021). Participants were divided into three groups: (1) individuals who accepted the vaccination (“accepters”); (2) individuals who refused the vaccination (“rejecters”); and (3) individuals who were uncertain about their attitudes toward the vaccination (“fence sitters”). Group comparisons were performed using ANOVA, the Kruskal-Wallis test and chi-square tests. The strength of the association between the groups and the participants' characteristics was analyzed using a series of multinomial logistic regression models with bootstrap internal validation (one for each factor).

Results

The “fence sitters” group, when compared to the others, included individuals of younger age, lower educational level, and worsening economic situation in the previous 3 months. After controlling for sociodemographic factors, the following features emerged as the main risk factors for being “fence sitters” (compared with vaccine “accepters”): reporting lower levels of protective behaviors, trust in institutions and informational sources, frequency of use of informational sources, agreement with restrictions and higher conspirative mentality. Higher levels of COVID-19 perceived risk, trust in institutions and informational sources, frequency of use of informational sources, agreement with restrictions and protective behaviors were associated with a higher likelihood of becoming “fence sitters” rather than vaccine “rejecters.”

Conclusions

The “fence sitters” profile revealed by this study is intriguing and should be the focus of public programmes aimed at improving adherence to the COVID-19 vaccination campaign.
Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Reinfection 18 Months After Primary Infection: Population-Level Observational Study
Authors: Flacco Maria Elena , Soldato Graziella , Acuti Martellucci Cecilia , Di Martino Giuseppe , Carota Roberto , Caponetti Antonio , Manzoli Lamberto
Published: May 2022

Current data suggest that SARS-CoV-2 reinfections are rare. Uncertainties remain, however, on the duration of the natural immunity, its protection against Omicron variant, and on the impact of vaccination to reduce reinfection rates. In this retrospective cohort analysis of the entire population of an Italian region, we followed 1,293,941 subjects from the beginning of the pandemic to the current scenario of Omicron predominance (up to mid-February 2022). After an average of 277 days, we recorded 729 reinfections among 119,266 previously infected subjects (overall rate: 6.1‰), eight COVID-19-related hospitalizations (7/100,000), and two deaths. Importantly, the incidence of reinfection did not vary substantially over time: after 18–22 months from the primary infection, the reinfection rate was still 6.7‰, suggesting that protection conferred by natural immunity may last beyond 12 months. The risk of reinfection was significantly higher among females, unvaccinated subjects, and during the Omicron wave.
The “Kinesthetic HMD”: Inducing Self-Motion Sensations in Immersive Virtual Reality With Head-Based Force Feedback
Authors: Costes Antoine , Lécuyer Anatole
Published: April 2022

The sensation of self-motion is essential in many virtual reality applications, from entertainment to training, such as flying and driving simulators. If the common approach used in amusement parks is to actuate the seats with cumbersome systems, multisensory integration can also be leveraged to get rich effects from lightweight solutions. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach called the “Kinesthetic HMD”: actuating a head-mounted display with force feedback in order to provide sensations of self-motion. We discuss its design considerations and demonstrate an augmented flight simulator use case with a proof-of-concept prototype. We conducted a user study assessing our approach’s ability to enhance self-motion sensations. Taken together, our results show that our Kinesthetic HMD provides significantly stronger and more egocentric sensations than a visual-only self-motion experience. Thus, by providing congruent vestibular and proprioceptive cues related to balance and self-motion, the Kinesthetic HMD represents a promising approach for a variety of virtual reality applications in which motion sensations are prominent.
Effect of Solar Wind Pressure and Substorm Linked Particle Injection on Local Time Distribution of Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron Waves
Authors: Upadhyay Aditi , Kakad Bharati , Kakad Amar , Rawat R.
Published: April 2022

Several observations of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves have been reported from the Earth’s magnetosphere. It is an important component of space weather research due to its efficient role in precipitating highly energetic electrons from the Earth’s radiation belt. In general, the interplanetary solar wind conditions and geomagnetic activity control the generation of EMIC waves by modifying the ambient plasma conditions in the generation region. Therefore, EMIC wave occurrence patterns observed both in space and on the ground are influenced by the variations in the parameters like auroral electrojet (AE index), solar wind dynamic pressure, and Dst, which represent the magnetospheric conditions. We present a detailed local time distribution of EMIC waves observed at the Antarctic station, Maitri (geographic 70.7oS, 11.8oE, L = 5), for 2011–2017. We have cataloged the EMIC wave occurrence in four frequency ranges (between 0.12–2 Hz) and examined their occurrence pattern for different levels of AE index and solar wind pressure. The present analysis reveals that at the ground station, Maitri, the occurrence of EMIC waves is dominated in the lower frequency range (0.12–1 Hz) with lower occurrence in the higher frequency range (>1Hz). It is found that the EMIC waves having frequencies > 1 Hz occur dominantly in the early morning hours with a peak close to 5.7 LT hours, and they are linked to the magnetic activity that occurred in the preceding days, whereas the effect of solar wind dynamic pressure and AE index on the local time occurrence of EMIC waves is unambiguously seen for the waves with <1 Hz. The study revealed the larger AE index shifts occurrence of EMIC waves in the dusk sector.
Esports Fan Engagement: A Comparison of PC and Console Esports Team Fans
Authors: Huettermann Marcel , Pizzo Anthony D.
Published: April 2022

Esports, competitive video game competitions, are a leading digital innovation at the nexus of sports, business, and technology. Given their prominent position, esports have received extensive media and academic attention. In particular, esports fans, primarily tech-savvy and affluent young adults, have been the foci of this attention. Accordingly, a large number of studies has centered on these influential consumers, examining their motives to spectate, support, and follow esports teams and players. To date, esports have been examined very broadly, neglecting differences in the multitude of games, genres, and platforms which influence their consumption. In particular, the platform (or medium), plays a substantial role in how consumers engage with esports teams and players. These platforms include personal computers (PCs) and video gaming consoles. The purpose of this study is to identify differences in how fans of PC and console based esports teams engage with their favorite esports team. We collected data from both PC and console esports team fans via an online survey (N = 514), analyzing said data using structural equation modeling and multigroup analysis. Our results highlight that fans of console-based esports teams value both emotional engagement and management cooperation, underscoring the more intimate and personal experience afforded by consoles (vis-à-vis PCs). Overall, our study elucidates differences in esports fan engagement and helps to further identify critical differences that influence esports consumer behavior.
Lactobacillus in Food Animal Production—A Forerunner for Clean Label Prospects in Animal-Derived Products
Authors: Dewi Grace , Kollanoor Johny Anup
Published: April 2022

Lactobacillus, the largest genus within the lactic acid bacteria group, has served diverse roles in improving the quality of foods for centuries. The heterogeneity within this genus has resulted in the industry's continued use of their well-known functions and exploration of novel applications. Moreover, the perceived health benefits in many applications have also made them fond favorites of consumers and researchers alike. Their familiarity lends to their utility in the growing “clean label” movement, of which consumers prefer fewer additions to the food label and opt for recognizable and naturally-derived substances. Our review primarily focuses on the historical use of lactobacilli for their antimicrobial functionality in improving preharvest safety, a critical step to validate their role as biocontrol agents and antibiotic alternatives in food animal production. We also explore their potential as candidates catering to the consumer-driven demand for more authentic, transparent, and socially responsible labeling of animal products.
Comparison of the Modified TyG Indices and Other Parameters to Predict Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Youth
Authors: Song Kyungchul , Lee Hae Won , Choi Han Saem , Park Goeun , Lee Hye Sun , Kim Su Jin , Lee Myeongseob , Suh Junghwan , Kwon Ahreum , Kim Ho-Seong , Chae Hyun Wook
Published: April 2022

We investigated the modified triglycerides-glucose (TyG) indices and other markers for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in 225 participants aged 10–19 years, and the participants were divided into subgroups according to their NAFLD grade. We performed logistic regression analysis and calculated the odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of tertiles 2 and 3 for each parameter, with those of tertile 1 as a reference. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was calculated to compare the parameters for identifying NAFLD. TyG and modified indices, aspartate transaminase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI)-body mass index (BMI), APRI-BMI standard deviation score (SDS), APRI waist-to-hip ratio, fibrosis-4 index (FIB)-4, and hepatic steatosis index (HSI) were higher in participants with NAFLD than in those without NAFLD. The ORs and 95% CIs for NAFLD progressively increased across tertiles of each parameter. TyG and modified TyG indices, FIB-4, HSI, and modified APRIs, except APRI waist-to-height ratio, predicted NAFLD significantly through ROC curves. Modified TyG indices, APRI-BMI SDS, and HSI were superior to the other markers for NAFLD prediction. Modified TyG indices, APRI-BMI SDS, and HSI appear to be useful for assessing NAFLD in youths.