bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical detection of sulfite using gold nanoparticles decorated poly[2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] trimethylammonium chloride: kinetic and mechanistic studies
Authors: Awal Abdul , Mia Md Mithu , Ferdaus Fahima , Hossain Md Abdul Kabir , Nayem S M Abu , Shah Syed Shaheen , Shaikh M Nasiruzzaman , Mazumder Mohammad Abu Jafar , Aziz Md Abdul , Ahammad A J Saleh
Published: August 2024

Sulfites (SO3
2−) are widely used in various industries as a preservative in beverages, pharmaceutical products, wines, foods, and cosmetics. As a preservative, it prevents foods from spoiling and is also used as a bleaching agent due to its antioxidant, anti-browning, and antibacterial activity. Despite its widespread use, inhalation of SO3
2− can lead to health issues such as headaches, nausea, asthma, dizziness, and reduction of red blood cells. Thus, accurate and efficient detection of sulfite is crucial. The deployment of positively charged poly [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] trimethylammonium chloride (PMTC) decorated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) offers a novel approach, enhancing sensitivity and specificity in the electrochemical detection of negatively charged sulfite ions (SO3
2−). A sensor for detecting SO3
2− was developed using PMTC decorated with AuNPs on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to examine the structural morphology of the composite material, and the formation of AuNPs was confirmed through ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. Zeta potential analysis affirmed the positive charge of the PMTC composite, highlighting its effective coordination with the negatively charged SO3
2−. The surface conductivity of the modified GCE was studied using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Kinetic analyses, focusing on scan rate and pH dependencies, elucidated the SO3
2− oxidation dynamics and the interaction between the positively charged PMTC and negatively charged SO3
2−. Quantitative evaluation was performed using the current–time (I-t) technique, achieving a limit of detection of 0.41 ± 0.003 μM (S/N = 3) within a linear range of 6.66 μM to 1020 μM. The modified electrode demonstrated remarkable stability, repeatability, and resistance to common interferents. Real sample analysis using laboratory tap water with a fixed SO3
2− concentration exhibited excellent recovery. The oxidation of SO3
2− on the AuNPs-PMTC-GCE proceeded via first-order kinetics and followed a stepwise pathway facilitated by the charge interactions.
Structure and optical properties of ZnxCd1-xS and Cu:ZnxCd1-xS templated on DNA molecules
Authors: Aldana Andres , Houlton Andrew , Horrocks Benjamin R
Published: August 2024

One-dimensional ZnxCd1−xS and Cu: Zn
x
Cd1−x
S nanostructures were prepared using DNA as a template to promote growth along the molecular axis. The formation of homogeneously alloyed nanocrystals with cubic zinc blende-type structures was verified using x-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. X-ray photoemission spectra revealed the presence of Cu(I) in the doped Cu: Zn
x
Cd1−x
S nanocrystals. The effectiveness of the DNA template to direct the semiconductor growth in one dimension was demonstrated by AFM and TEM. The nanostructures displayed a granular morphology comprising nanoparticles with an average diameter of 14 nm composed of assemblies of smaller crystallites of 2.0 nm in size. Rope-like assemblies with an average diameter of 48 nm and extending in length to several hundred micrometres were obtained by evaporation-induced self-assembly. UV-Vis absorption and emission spectra indicated that the optical bandgaps (2.89–4.00eV) and photoluminescence peaks (608–819 nm) of the DNA-templated nanocrystals could be precisely controlled by modifying the molar ratios of their Zn/Cd precursors. Doping with Cu(I) gave an increase in photoluminescence intensity and a composition-independent red-shift of 0.23 eV. The preparation of DNA-templated Zn
x
Cd1−x
S and Cu: Zn
x
Cd1−x
S provides a simple, low-temperature route to aqueous dispersions of inorganic materials with controlled optical gap.
Efficacy of COVID-19 Oral antivirals in hospitalised oldest-old with high morbidity burden: a target trial emulation study
Authors: Lai Francisco Tsz Tsun , Wang Boyuan , Wei Cuiling , Chui Celine Sze Ling , Li Xue , Cheung Ching Lung , Wong Ian Chi Kei , Chan Esther Wai Yin , Wan Eric Yuk Fai
Published: August 2024

Background

Molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir are orally administered pharmacotherapies for mild to moderate COVID-19. However, the effectiveness of these drugs among very old (≥80 years), hospitalised patients remains unclear, limiting the risk–benefit assessment of these antivirals in this specific group. This study investigates the effectiveness of these antivirals in reducing mortality among this group of hospitalised patients with COVID-19.

Methods

Using a territory-wide public healthcare database in Hong Kong, a target trial emulation study was conducted with data from 13 642 eligible participants for the molnupiravir trial and 9553 for the nirmatrelvir-ritonavir trial. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Immortal time and confounding bias was minimised using cloning-censoring-weighting approach. Mortality odds ratios were estimated by pooled logistic regression after adjusting confounding biases by stabilised inverse probability weights.

Results

Both molnupiravir (HR: 0.895, 95% CI: 0.826–0.970) and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (HR: 0.804, 95% CI: 0.678–0.955) demonstrated moderate mortality risk reduction among oldest-old hospitalised patients. No significant interaction was observed between oral antiviral treatment and vaccination status. The 28-day risk of mortality was lower in initiators than non-initiators for both molnupiravir (risk difference: −1.09%, 95% CI: −2.29, 0.11) and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (risk difference: −1.71%, 95% CI: −3.30, −0.16) trials. The effectiveness of these medications was observed regardless of the patients’ prior vaccination status.

Conclusions

Molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir are moderately effective in reducing mortality risk among hospitalised oldest-old patients with COVID-19, regardless of their vaccination status.
Is advanced age still a risk factor for recurrence of C. difficile infection in the era of new treatments?
Authors: Suárez-Carantoña Cecilia , Corbacho-Loarte María Dolores , Del Campo Albendea Laura , Kamel-Rey Sara , Halperin Ana Verónica , Escudero-Sánchez Rosa , Ponce-Alonso Manuel , Moreno Santiago , Cobo Javier
Published: August 2024

Background

Advanced age has been widely identified as a risk factor for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), but most related studies were performed before the introduction of novel therapies. The aim of this study was to compare CDI characteristics and outcomes in patients over and under 80 years old with CDI and their outcomes in the era of new treatments.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with CDI from January 2021 to December 2022 in an academic hospital. We compared recurrence and mortality at 12 weeks after the end of treatment. An extension of the Fine and Grey model adjusted for competing events was used to assess the effect of age on recurrence.

Results

Four hundred seventy-six patients were considered to have CDI (320 in patients <80 years and 156 in ≥80 years). CDI in older patients was more frequently healthcare-associated and was more severe. Although the Charlson index was almost identical between populations, comorbidities clearly differed. New treatments (bezlotoxumab, fidaxomicin and faecal microbiota transplantation) were more frequently used in older patients without statistical significance (41.3% vs. 33.4%, P = .053). There were 69 (14.5%) recurrences, with no differences by age group after adjusting for competing events. Mortality was greater in the oldest (35.3%) than in the youngest (13.1%); P < .001.

Conclusions

No differences in CDI recurrence rates were found between age groups. However, there was a high mortality rate in patients ≥80 years old, which emphasises the urgent need to improve the prevention and treatment of CDI in this group.
Impact of Tranexamic Acid on Bleeding Outcomes and Complication Rates in Facelift: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Alenazi Abdulaziz Saud , Obeid Amani A , Alderaywsh Abdulaziz , Alrabiah Abdulaziz , Alkaoud Osama , Ashoor Mona , Aldosari Badi , Alarfaj Ahmed M
Published: August 2024

Background

Rhytidectomy poses a significant risk of bleeding. Several studies have reported the safety profile and efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA), an antifibrinolytic agent, in minimizing perioperative sequelae, particularly hematoma and bleeding.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the effect of TXA administration in facelift surgery, its effect with different routes of administration, and to compare different administration routes in reducing intraoperative blood loss, postoperative edema, and ecchymosis in rhytidectomy.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies that reported on TXA in facelift surgery. The primary outcomes of interest were intraoperative blood loss, time to achieve hemostasis, operation duration, and postoperative hematoma, edema, ecchymosis, drain output, and major and minor complications. Meta-analyses of hematoma, operation duration, drain output, and major and minor complications were performed, and the risk of bias was assessed with ROBINS-I for nonrandomized studies, and Cochrane's RoB 2.0, a tool for randomized controlled trials.

Results

In total, 104 articles were included in the initial screening. Out of 388 participants 170 patients were administered TXA, predominantly female (over 91%), with ages from the late 50s to mid-60s. TXA administration varied, with subcutaneous injection being the most common method. The meta-analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of minor and major hematoma in TXA recipients was remarkably low, with a significant reduction in the risk of minor hematoma (odds ratio [OR] = 0.18, 95% CI 0.05-0.62, P < .001) and no significant difference in major hematoma risk. Interestingly, TXA significantly reduced postoperative drainage compared to the controls (mean difference = −25.59, 95% CI, −30.4-−20.77, P < .01). Additionally, neither minor nor major complications were significantly different between the TXA recipients and controls. Specifically, the pooled odds for the incidence of major complications were not significantly different (OR = 1.47, 95% CI, 0.23-9.19, P = .68), and similar results were found for minor complications (OR = 0.59, 95% CI, 0.23-1.48, P = .26).

Conclusions

TXA significantly reduces postoperative drain output and minor hematomas in facelift surgery without increasing major complications. It also reduces edema, ecchymosis, and intraoperative blood loss. However, further studies are required to explore the efficacy of TXA with different dosages and administration routes.

Level of Evidence: 3
Hyaluronic Acid Filler VYC-25L for Jawline Restoration Yields High Satisfaction, Improved Jawline Measurements, and Sustained Effectiveness Across Skin Types, Age, and Gender for up to 12 Months
Authors: Burgess Cheryl , Dayan Steven , Bank David , Weinkle Susan , Sartor Marta , Chawla Smita , Keaney Terrence
Published: August 2024

Background

A randomized study previously reported demonstration of the safety and efficacy of hyaluronic acid filler VYC-25L for restoring jawline definition.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs), objective changes in jawline profile, and safety and effectiveness measures by Fitzpatrick skin phototype (FST), gender, and age following VYC-25L treatment.

Methods

Adults were randomized to receive VYC-25L (n = 157) or no treatment (control; n = 49) for 6 months. PROs were assessed by FACE-Q Satisfaction with Lower Face and Jawline, FACE-Q Appraisal of Lines: Marionette, and participant satisfaction with treatment questionnaires. Changes in jawline profile linear depth and volume were calculated with 3-dimensional digital image analysis. Responder rates, PROs, and injection site responses (ISRs) were assessed by FST, gender, and age.

Results

At Month 6, >70% of treated participants responded “somewhat/very satisfied” to FACE-Q Satisfaction with Lower Face and Jawline questions, and ≥78% of treated participants responded “satisfied/definitely satisfied” with treatment overall. For participants treated for the marionette lines, the FACE-Q Appraisal of Lines: Marionette questionnaire mean score improved by 32.6 (baseline to Month 6). Mean change in linear depth in the prejowl sulcus in the treatment vs control groups was 4.6 mm vs 2.5 mm, respectively, and for jawline volume was 6.0 mL and -2.6 mL, respectively (baseline to Month 6). Subanalyses showed similar outcomes by FST, gender, and age, except for a numerically higher ISR incidence in females vs males.

Conclusions

Treatment with VYC-25L to improve jawline definition yielded high patient satisfaction, objective improvements in jawline profile, and comparable effectiveness across various demographics.

Level of Evidence: 2
Current and future directions in network biology
Authors: Zitnik Marinka , Li Michelle M , Wells Aydin , Glass Kimberly , Morselli Gysi Deisy , Krishnan Arjun , Murali T M , Radivojac Predrag , Roy Sushmita , Baudot Anaïs , Bozdag Serdar , Chen Danny Z , Cowen Lenore , Devkota Kapil , Gitter Anthony , Gosline Sara J C , Gu Pengfei , Guzzi Pietro H , Huang Heng , Jiang Meng , Kesimoglu Ziynet Nesibe , Koyuturk Mehmet , Ma Jian , Pico Alexander R , Pržulj Nataša , Przytycka Teresa M , Raphael Benjamin J , Ritz Anna , Sharan Roded , Shen Yang , Singh Mona , Slonim Donna K , Tong Hanghang , Yang Xinan Holly , Yoon Byung-Jun , Yu Haiyuan , Milenković Tijana
Published: August 2024

Network biology is an interdisciplinary field bridging computational and biological sciences that has proved pivotal in advancing the understanding of cellular functions and diseases across biological systems and scales. Although the field has been around for two decades, it remains nascent. It has witnessed rapid evolution, accompanied by emerging challenges. These stem from various factors, notably the growing complexity and volume of data together with the increased diversity of data types describing different tiers of biological organization. We discuss prevailing research directions in network biology, focusing on molecular/cellular networks but also on other biological network types such as biomedical knowledge graphs, patient similarity networks, brain networks, and social/contact networks relevant to disease spread. In more detail, we highlight areas of inference and comparison of biological networks, multimodal data integration and heterogeneous networks, higher-order network analysis, machine learning on networks, and network-based personalized medicine. Following the overview of recent breakthroughs across these five areas, we offer a perspective on future directions of network biology. Additionally, we discuss scientific communities, educational initiatives, and the importance of fostering diversity within the field. This article establishes a roadmap for an immediate and long-term vision for network biology.

Availability and implementation

Not applicable.
Prognostic significance of the systemic immune–inflammation index in patients with Steven–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Han Winn Hui , Tshung En Wong Tobias , Yusof Ruhana Che , Choong Rebecca Kai Jan , Yong Shin Shen , Faheem Nik Aimee Azizah , Kwan Zhenli
Published: August 2024

Inflammatory markers such as neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and eosinophil count are known prognostic indicators for the severity of Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). This study explores the correlation of systemic immune–inflammation index (SII), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and NLR with Severity-of-Illness Score for Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (SCORTEN) and patient outcomes. A retrospective audit of 34 patients with SJS/TEN (25 SJS, 3 SJS/TEN overlap, 6 TEN) was conducted from 2018 to 2022. Mean admission values were SII 1597 (SD 1904), NLR 6.52 (SD 5.99) and PLR 202 (SD 135). Cut-off values for predicting mortality were SII 1238 [area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) 0.82], NLR 8.32 (AUROC 0.80) and PLR 285 (AUROC 0.78). Multiple logistic regression using a backward stepwise method identified SCORTEN as a significant factor associated with mortality (P = 0.03) after adjusting for SII, NLR and PLR. None of the inflammatory markers significantly predicted mortality, although PLR at admission may be a potential risk factor (P = 0.05).
Anuran responses to urbanization: evaluating life history traits of Rhinella arenarum in urban wetlands
Authors: Favio Pollo , Clarisa Bionda , Mariana Baraquet , Manuel Otero , Adolfo Martino , Pablo Grenat
Published: August 2024

Wetlands are unique ecological environments capable of harboring high biodiversity. However, urbanization can degrade, eliminate, or transform these habitats. Although amphibians utilize habitats created by humans in urban landscapes, few studies have investigated the influence of the habitat quality on the life history of anurans. We assessed life history traits such as snout-vent length (SVL), body condition, and reproductive investment in the South American common toad Rhinella arenarum, to determine whether urbanization is harmful or beneficial to this species. We sampled wetlands with different levels of urbanization in Río Cuarto city, Córdoba, Argentina. We recorded males with lower SVL in medium urbanized wetlands and those with the highest SVL in both low and high urbanization categories, similar to what was found for body conditions with males with low body conditions inhabiting wetlands with a medium degree of urbanization. In females, lower SVL was recorded in medium urbanization and highest SVL in high and low urbanization. It is observed that females recorded in highly urbanized wetlands have a very low body condition. The reproductive investment parameters were not significantly different, but we observed an association between a greater number of eggs and clutch size with wetlands of low urbanization. These results show a variability of responses of R. arenarum to urbanization, which could be due to phenotypic plasticity in its life history parameters, allowing it to inhabit urban areas. Continuous monitoring of the species in these wetlands is needed to determine if these biological responses are temporary or persistent.
Time-dependent prognostic impact of circumferential resection margin in T3 thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lv Zhuoheng , Yuan Ligong , He Jie , Gao Shugeng , Xue Qi , Mao Yousheng
Published: August 2024

Esophageal cancer presents a clinical challenge due to its high incidence and unfavorable prognosis. The prognostic role of the circumferential resection margin (CRM) remains highly controversial, potentially due to its temporal dynamics coupled with variability in follow-up durations across studies. We aimed to explore the time-dependent prognostic significance of CRM in T3 esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCCs). We systematically reviewed literature from 1990 to 2023 to determine how follow-up duration influences the prognostic role of CRM in esophageal cancer. Concurrently, we performed a retrospective examination of 354 patients who underwent treatment at the National Cancer Center between 2015 and 2018. Integrating a time interaction term in the Cox regression analyses enabled us to not only identify independent risk factors affecting overall survival (OS) but also to specifically scrutinize the potential temporal variations in CRM’s prognostic impact. Our literature review suggested that CRM’s influence on prognosis diminishes with longer follow-up durations for both classifications, namely the Royal College of Pathologists (RCP) (β = −0.003, P < 0.001) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP) (β = −0.007, P < 0.001). Time-dependent multivariate Cox regression analysis emphasized the evolving nature of CRM’s prognostic effect, and the inclusion of the time interaction term enhanced model accuracy. In conclusion, CRM is an independent prognostic factor for T3 thoracic ESCC patients. Its influence appears to decrease over extended follow-up periods, shedding light on the heterogeneity seen in previous studies. With the time interaction term, CRM becomes a more precise post-operative prognostic indicator for esophageal cancer.
Device-measured physical activity and cardiac structure by magnetic resonance
Authors: Yates Thomas , Razieh Cameron , Henson Joe , Rowlands Alex V , Goldney Jonathan , Gulsin Gaurav S , Davies Melanie J , Khunti Kamlesh , Zaccardi Francesco , McCann Gerry P
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Although extreme cardiac adaptions mirroring phenotypes of cardiomyopathy have been observed in endurance athletes, adaptions to high levels of physical activity within the wider population are under-explored. Therefore, in this study, associations between device-measured physical activity and clinically relevant cardiac magnetic resonance volumetric indices were investigated.

Methods

Individuals without known cardiovascular disease or hypertension were included from the UK Biobank. Cardiac magnetic resonance data were collected between 2015 and 2019, and measures of end-diastolic chamber volume, left ventricular (LV) wall thickness, and LV ejection fraction were extracted. Moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), vigorous-intensity physical activity (VPA), and total physical activity were assessed via wrist-worn accelerometers.

Results

A total of 5977 women (median age and MVPA: 62 years and 46.8 min/day, respectively) and 4134 men (64 years and 49.8 min/day, respectively) were included. Each additional 10 min/day of MVPA was associated with a 0.70 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.62, 0.79] mL/m2 higher indexed LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDVi) in women and a 1.08 (95% CI: 0.95, 1.20) mL/m2 higher LVEDVi in men. However, even within the top decile of MVPA, LVEDVi values remained within the normal ranges [79.1 (95% CI: 78.3, 80.0) mL/m2 in women and 91.4 (95% CI: 90.1, 92.7) mL/m2 in men]. Associations with MVPA were also observed for the right ventricle and the left/right atria, with an inverse association observed for LV ejection fraction. Associations of MVPA with maximum or average LV wall thickness were not clinically meaningful. Results for total physical activity and VPA mirrored those for MVPA.

Conclusions

High levels of device-measured physical activity were associated with cardiac remodelling within normal ranges.
DNA methylation analysis reveals local changes in resistant and susceptible soybean lines in response to Phytophthora sansomeana
Authors: DiBiase Charlotte N , Cheng Xi , Lee Gwonjin , Moore Richard C , McCoy Austin G , Chilvers Martin I , Sun Lianjun , Wang Dechun , Lin Feng , Zhao Meixia
Published: August 2024

Phytophthora sansomeana is an emerging oomycete pathogen causing root rot in many agricultural species including soybean. However, as of now, only one potential resistance gene has been identified in soybean, and our understanding of how genetic and epigenetic regulation in soybean contributes to responses against this pathogen remains largely unknown. In this study, we performed whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) on two soybean lines, Colfax (resistant) and Williams 82 (susceptible), in response to P. sansomeana at two time points: 4 and 16 hours post-inoculation to compare their methylation changes. Our findings revealed that there were no significant changes in genome-wide CG, CHG (H = A, T, or C), and CHH methylation. However, we observed local methylation changes, specially an increase in CHH methylation around genes and transposable elements (TEs) after inoculation, which occurred earlier in the susceptible line and later in the resistant line. After inoculation, we identified differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in both Colfax and Williams 82, with a predominant presence in TEs. Notably, our data also indicated that more TEs exhibited changes in their methylomes in the susceptible line compared to the resistant line. Furthermore, we discovered 837 DMRs within or flanking 772 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in Colfax and 166 DMRs within or flanking 138 DEGs in Williams 82. These DEGs had diverse functions, with Colfax primarily showing involvement in metabolic process, defense response, plant and pathogen interaction, anion and nucleotide binding, and catalytic activity, while Williams 82 exhibited a significant association with photosynthesis. These findings suggest distinct molecular responses to P. sansomeana infection in the resistant and susceptible soybean lines.
A Dementia-Friendly Educational Program Using Virtual Reality for the General Public in Japan: A Randomized Controlled Trial for DRIVE
Authors: Suzuki Haruno , Igarashi Ayumi , Matsumoto Hiroshige , Kugai Haruna , Takaoka Manami , Sakka Mariko , Ito Kenichiro , Hagiwara Yasuhiro , Yamamoto-Mitani Noriko
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Raising dementia awareness is essential for building a dementia-friendly community. However, existing studies have underexplored the effects of virtual reality (VR) dementia educational programs for the general public on enhancing positive attitude toward dementia. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a VR dementia-friendly educational program called the Drive for Dementia Readiness Inside Virtual Reality (DRIVE) program to improve attitude toward dementia of the general public.

Research Design and Methods

A two-arm randomized controlled trial was conducted. Eligibility criteria for participants included being 16 years and older in Japan and having no professional license in healthcare and social care. We randomized individuals to attend a multielement VR dementia-friendly educational program (intervention), including simulation, VR films, short films, lectures, and discussions or a lecture-based program (control). Data were collected 3 times, including at baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up. The primary outcome was attitude toward dementia. The secondary outcomes were intention of helping behavior for people living with dementia and knowledge of dementia.

Results

We recruited 157 community residents, among whom 130 were included in the analysis. Although the mean changes in attitude score were not significantly different between the groups (Hedge’s g = 0.26), the intention of helping behavior score was significantly higher in the intervention group (g = 0.49).

Discussion and Implication

The DRIVE, a VR-based multielement dementia-friendly educational intervention, was shown as a promising tool for significantly affecting the intention of helping behavior for people living with dementia to establish dementia-friendly communities.

Clinical Trials Registration Number

UMIN000044901
Active and passive salt diapirs: a numerical study
Authors: Gou Yiren , Liu Mian
Published: August 2024

Salt diapirs dominate the structure in many sedimentary basins and control the preservation and migration of hydrocarbon. The formation of salt diapirs generally falls into two endmember models: active (up-building) and passive (down-building) diapirism. In the active model, salt diapirs rise from salt buoyancy to pierce through the sedimentary overburden, whereas in the passive model, salt diapirs result from differential loading of sediments during deposition. These endmember models are mostly conceptual or kinematic, the mechanics of active and passive diapirism and their relative roles and interactions in the formation of salt diapirs remain uncertain. Here, we use two-dimensional high-resolution numerical models to investigate the primary factors and critical conditions for active and passive diapirism. Our results indicate that it is improper to use driving mechanisms to classify salt diapirs, because the buoyancy-driven active salt diapirism involves differential loading, while the passive diapirism requires salt buoyancy. The rise of salt diapirs is more sensitive to the effective viscosity of the overburden than to the salt viscosity. Stiff overburdens could prevent the rise of salt diapirs, but they could be pierced by salt diapirs if plastic yield of the overburden is allowed. During deposition, the coupled salt-sediment deformation, driven by both salt buoyancy and differential loading of sediments, can lead to various diapiric salt structures and minibasins. Regional tectonic stress generally promotes salt diapirism by enhancing strain weakening of salts and overburdens. We suggest that the classification of active and passive salt diapirism is an oversimplification in most cases. We propose a general model of the formation of salt diapirs that usually begins with dome initiation driven by salt buoyancy, followed by syndepositional down-building controlled by sedimentation and differential loading and ends with canopy formation when sedimentation stops.
CsTs, a C-type lectin receptor-like kinase, regulates the development trichome development and cuticle metabolism in cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
Authors: Lv Duo , Wen HaiFan , Wang Gang , Liu Juan , Guo ChunLi , Sun Jingxian , Zhang Keyan , Li ChaoHan , You Jiaqi , Pan Ming , He Huanle , Cai Run , Pan Junsong
Published: August 2024

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) fruit spines are a classic material for researching the development of multicellular trichomes. Some key genes that influence trichome development have been confirmed to be associated with cuticle biosynthesis and secondary metabolism. However, the biological mechanisms underlying trichome development, cuticle biosynthesis, and secondary metabolism in cucumber remain poorly understood. CsTs, a C-type lectin receptor-like kinase gene, reportedly causes a tender trichome phenotype in cucumber when it mutates. In this study, the role of CsTs in cucumber fruit spines morphogenesis was confirmed using gene editing technology. Sectioning and cell wall component detection were used to analyse the main reason of tender fruit spines in the ts mutant. Subsequently, transcriptome data and a series of molecular biology experiments were used to further investigate the relationship between CsTs and cytoskeletal homeostasis in cucumber. CsTs overexpression partially compensated for the abnormal trichome phenotype of an Arabidopsis homolog mutant. Genetic hybridization and metabolic analysis indicated that CsTs and CsMict can affect trichome development and cuticle biosynthesis in the same pathway. Our findings provide important background information for further researching on the molecular mechanism underlying cucumber trichome development and contribute to understanding the biological function of C-type lectin receptor-like kinases.
Evaluation of Medical Subject Headings assignment in simulated patient articles
Authors: Tonin Fernanda S , Negrão Luciana G , Meza Isabela P , Fernandez-Llimos Fernando
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To evaluate human-based Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) allocation in articles about ‘patient simulation’—a technique that mimics real-life patient scenarios with controlled patient responses.

Methods

A validation set of articles indexed before the Medical Text Indexer-Auto implementation (in 2019) was created with 150 combinations potentially referring to ‘patient simulation’. Articles were classified into four categories of simulation studies. Allocation of seven MeSH terms (Simulation Training, Patient Simulation, High Fidelity Simulation Training, Computer Simulation, Patient-Specific Modelling, Virtual Reality, and Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy) was investigated. Accuracy metrics (sensitivity, precision, or positive predictive value) were calculated for each category of studies.

Key findings

A set of 7213 articles was obtained from 53 different word combinations, with 2634 excluded as irrelevant. ‘Simulated patient’ and ‘standardized/standardized patient’ were the most used terms. The 4579 included articles, published in 1044 different journals, were classified into: ‘Machine/Automation’ (8.6%), ‘Education’ (75.9%) and ‘Practice audit’ (11.4%); 4.1% were ‘Unclear’. Articles were indexed with a median of 10 MeSH (IQR 8–13); however, 45.5% were not indexed with any of the seven MeSH terms. Patient Simulation was the most prevalent MeSH (24.0%). Automation articles were more associated with Computer Simulation MeSH (sensitivity = 54.5%; precision = 25.1%), while Education articles were associated with Patient Simulation MeSH (sensitivity = 40.2%; precision = 80.9%). Practice audit articles were also polarized to Patient Simulation MeSH (sensitivity = 34.6%; precision = 10.5%).

Conclusions

Inconsistent use of free-text words related to patient simulation was observed, as well as inaccuracies in human-based MeSH assignments. These limitations can compromise relevant literature retrieval to support evidence synthesis exercises.
Variants in the Late Cornified Envelope Gene Locus Are Associated With Elevated T-helper 17 Responses in Patients With Postinfectious Lyme Arthritis
Authors: Ehrbar Dylan , Arvikar Sheila L , Sulka Katherine B , Chiumento Geena , Nelson Nicole L J , Hernandez Sergio A , Williams Morgan A , Strle Franc , Steere Allen C , Strle Klemen
Published: August 2024

Background

Postinfectious Lyme arthritis (LA) is associated with dysregulated immunity and autoreactive T- and B-cell responses in joints. Here we explored the role of host genetic variation in this outcome.

Methods

The frequency of 253 702 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was determined in 147 patients with LA (87 with postinfectious LA and 60 with antibiotic-responsive LA), and for comparison in 90 patients with erythema migrans or the general population (n = 2504). Functional outcome of candidate SNPs was assessed by evaluating their impact on clinical outcome and on immune responses in blood and synovial fluid in patients with LA.

Results

Six SNPs associated with late cornified envelope (LCE3) genes were present at greater frequency in patients with postinfectious LA compared to those with antibiotic-responsive LA (70% vs 30%; odds ratio, 2; P < .01). These SNPs were associated with heightened levels of inflammatory Th17 cytokines in serum but lower levels of interleukin 27, a regulatory cytokine, implying that they may contribute to dysregulated Th17 immunity in blood. Moreover, in patients with postinfectious LA, the levels of these Th17 mediators correlated directly with autoantibody responses in synovial fluid, providing a possible link between LCE3 SNPs, maladaptive systemic Th17 immunity, and autoreactive responses in joints.

Conclusions

Variation in the LCE3 locus, a known genetic risk factor in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, is associated with dysregulated systemic Th17 immunity and heightened autoantibody responses in joints. These findings underscore the importance of host genetic predisposition and systemic Th17 immunity in the pathogenesis of postinfectious (antibiotic-refractory) Lyme arthritis.
Laboratory Testing for Powassan Virus: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Klontz Erik H , Chowdhury Navid , Branda John A
Published: August 2024

Powassan virus is a tick-borne flavivirus that can cause severe neuroinvasive disease, with areas of endemicity in the Northeast and Midwest United States, Canada, and Russia. Diagnosis is challenging and relies on a high index of suspicion and choosing the right test based on duration of infection and the patient's immune status. This review covers laboratory testing for Powassan virus, including historical considerations, modern options, and methods being developed in the research space.
Persistent Symptoms After Lyme Disease: Clinical Characteristics, Predictors, and Classification
Authors: Baarsma M E , Hovius Joppe W
Published: August 2024

Persistent symptoms after an infection have been described for a number of infectious diseases, including Lyme disease. Studies have confirmed a moderate but consistent increase in the prevalence of such symptoms after Lyme disease, though the risk increase varies dependent on study design and the definition of persistent symptoms. Various possible predictors have been proposed, including a dysregulation of the immune system, metabolic changes, increased sensitization to pain signals, cognitive-behavioral factors, or—controversially—the persistence of the causative Borrelia bacteria or remnants thereof. Research on the precise roles of any of these factors is still ongoing. The lack of biological underpinning also makes it difficult to assess with certainty which patients’ (generally nonspecific) persistent symptoms are etiologically related to the previous Lyme disease episode and which are not, particularly as these symptoms occur in the general population relatively frequently. The diagnostic criteria for posttreatment Lyme disease syndrome have shown their usefulness in both clinical and research settings but leave out a number of patients whose symptoms may fall just outside said criteria. Though the relationship between these symptoms and the previous Lyme disease episode may be very uncertain, we would argue that a uniform description and classification of these patients will aid in future research and patient management, regardless of the eventual underlying cause. Thus, we argue for an inclusive classification system for all persistent symptoms attributed to Lyme disease in order to promote validation of patient experiences and perspectives, while also maintaining scientific nuance regarding the very uncertain etiology of these patients’ symptoms.
Comparative Evaluation of Commercial Test Kits Cleared for Use in Modified Two-Tiered Testing Algorithms for Serodiagnosis of Lyme Disease
Authors: Lewandrowski Elizabeth L , Turbett Sarah E , Nigrovic Lise E , Klontz Erik H , Branda John A
Published: August 2024

Background

Modified 2-tiered testing (MTTT) for Lyme disease utilizes automatable, high throughput immunoassays (AHTIs) in both tiers without involving western immunoblots, offering performance and practical advantages over standard 2-tiered testing (STTT; first-tier AHTI followed by immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) western immunoblots). For MTTT, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using AHTI test kits that have been cleared by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for this intended use. We evaluated performance of FDA-cleared MTTT commercial test kits from 3 manufacturers by comparing with STTT results.

Methods

We performed MTTT (total antibody AHTI with reflex to separate IgM and IgG AHTIs) using test kits from Diasorin, Gold Standard Diagnostics (GSD), and Zeus Scientific on 382 excess serum samples submitted to the clinical laboratory for routine Lyme disease serologic testing in July 2018, measuring agreement between MTTT and STTT using the κ statistic.

Results

Overall agreement with STTT was 0.87 (95% confidence interval [CI], .77–.97) using Diasorin assays (almost perfect agreement), 0.80 (95% CI, .68–.93) using GSD assays (substantial agreement) and 0.79 (95% CI, .68–.90) using Zeus assays (substantial agreement). For detection of IgM reactivity, agreement between MTTT and STTT was 0.70 (.51–.90; substantial), 0.63 (95% CI, .44–.82; substantial) and 0.56 (95% CI, .38–.73; moderate), respectively. For detection of IgG reactivity, MTTT/STTT agreement was 0.73 (95% CI,.58–.88), 0.78 (95% CI, .62–.94), and 0.75 (95% CI, .60–.90), respectively (substantial agreement in all cases).

Conclusions

MTTT results obtained using commercial test kits from 3 different manufacturers had substantial to almost perfect agreement with STTT results overall and moderate to substantial agreement for IgM and IgG detection independently. Commercial MTTT tests can be used broadly for the diagnosis of Lyme disease.
Lyme Disease Surveillance and Epidemiology in the United States: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Mead Paul , Hinckley Alison , Kugeler Kiersten
Published: August 2024

In the 40 years since Steere and colleagues first described Lyme disease, the illness has increased in incidence and distribution to become the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. Public health officials have developed, implemented, and revised surveillance systems to describe and monitor the condition. Much has been learned about the epidemiology of the illness, despite practical and logistical constraints that have encumbered the collection and interpretation of surveillance data. Future development of automated data collection from electronic health records as a source of surveillance and clinical information will address practical challenges and help answer ongoing questions about complications and persistent symptoms. Robust surveillance will be essential to monitor the effectiveness and safety of future vaccines and other preventive measures.
Identification of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II Epitopes From Lyme Autoantigen Apolipoprotein B-100 and Borrelia burgdorferi Mcp4 in Murine Lyme Arthritis
Authors: Danner Rebecca , Prochniak Lauren M , Pereckas Michaela , Rouse Joseph R , Wahhab Amanda , Hackner Lauren G , Lochhead Robert B
Published: August 2024

Background

During infection with the Lyme arthritis (LA) pathogen Borrelia burgdorferi, T-cell responses to both host and pathogen are dysregulated, resulting in chronic infection and frequent development of autoimmunity.

Methods

To assess CD4+ T-cell epitopes presented during development of LA, we used an unbiased, immunopeptidomics approach to characterize the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II immunopeptidome in B burgdorferi-infected C57BL/6 (B6) mice, which develop mild, self-limiting LA, and infected B6 Il10−/− mice, which develop severe, persistent LA at 0, 4, and 16 weeks postinfection (22–23 mice per group).

Results

Peptides derived from proteins involved in adaptive T- and B-cell responses and cholesterol metabolism, including human Lyme autoantigen apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB-100), were enriched in infected Il10−/− mice; whereas peptides derived from proteins involved in neutrophil extracellular net formation were enriched in infected B6 mice. Presentation of apoB-100 peptides showed evidence of epitope expansion during infection. Of several identified B burgdorferi peptides, only 1, a methyl-accepting chemotaxis protein peptide Mcp4442–462, was immunogenic.

Conclusions

ApoB-100, a human Lyme autoantigen, undergoes marked epitope expansion during LA development. The paucity of immunogenic B burgdorferi epitopes supports previous findings suggesting CD4+ T-cell responses are suppressed in murine LA.
Nitrite-oxidizing bacteria adapted to low-oxygen conditions dominate nitrite oxidation in marine oxygen minimum zones
Authors: Fortin Samantha G , Sun Xin , Jayakumar Amal , Ward Bess B
Published: August 2024

Nitrite is a central molecule in the nitrogen cycle because nitrite oxidation to nitrate (an aerobic process) retains fixed nitrogen in a system and its reduction to dinitrogen gas (anaerobic) reduces the fixed nitrogen inventory. Despite its acknowledged requirement for oxygen, nitrite oxidation is observed in oxygen-depleted layers of the ocean’s oxygen minimum zones (OMZs), challenging the current understanding of OMZ nitrogen cycling. Previous attempts to determine whether nitrite-oxidizing bacteria in the anoxic layer differ from known nitrite oxidizers in the open ocean were limited by cultivation difficulties and sequencing depth. Here, we construct 31 draft genomes of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria from global OMZs. The distribution of nitrite oxidation rates, abundance and expression of nitrite oxidoreductase genes, and relative abundance of nitrite-oxidizing bacterial draft genomes from the same samples all show peaks in the core of the oxygen-depleted zone (ODZ) and are all highly correlated in depth profiles within the major ocean oxygen minimum zones. The ODZ nitrite oxidizers are not found in the Tara Oceans global dataset (the most complete oxic ocean dataset), and the major nitrite oxidizers found in the oxygenated ocean do not occur in ODZ waters. A pangenomic analysis shows the ODZ nitrite oxidizers have distinct gene clusters compared to oxic nitrite oxidizers and are microaerophilic. These findings all indicate the existence of nitrite oxidizers whose niche is oxygen-deficient seawater. Thus, specialist nitrite-oxidizing bacteria are responsible for fixed nitrogen retention in marine oxygen minimum zones, with implications for control of the ocean’s fixed nitrogen inventory.
Navigating fluoroquinolone resistance in Gram-negative bacteria: a comprehensive evaluation
Authors: Kherroubi Linda , Bacon Joanna , Rahman Khondaker Miraz
Published: August 2024

Since the introduction of quinolone and fluoroquinolone antibiotics to treat bacterial infections in the 1960s, there has been a pronounced increase in the number of bacterial species that have developed resistance to fluoroquinolone treatment. In 2017, the World Health Organization established a priority list of the most critical Gram-negative resistant pathogens. These included Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. In the last three decades, investigations into the mechanisms of fluoroquinolone resistance have revealed that mutations in the target enzymes of fluoroquinolones, DNA gyrase or topoisomerase IV, are the most prevalent mechanism conferring high levels of resistance. Alterations to porins and efflux pumps that facilitate fluoroquinolone permeation and extrusion across the bacterial cell membrane also contribute to the development of resistance. However, there is a growing observation of novel mutants with newer generations of fluoroquinolones, highlighting the need for novel treatments. Currently, steady progress has been made in the development of novel antimicrobial agents that target DNA gyrase or topoisomerase IV through different avenues than current fluoroquinolones to prevent target-mediated resistance. Therefore, an updated review of the current understanding of fluoroquinolone resistance within the literature is imperative to aid in future investigations.
Purification of proanthocyanidins from nut seeds and study on its bactericidal mechanism against Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Lou Zaixiang , Fan Xiaoyuan , Liu Caihua , Liao Yuemei , Du Xiaojing , Wang Hongxin
Published: August 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to purify proanthocyanidins from areca nut seeds (P-AN) and to investigate the bactericidal activity and mechanism of the purified products against Streptococcus mutans.

Methods and results

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared, Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MADLI-TOF-MS), and thiolysis experiment were used for P-AN chemical analysis. Time-kill analysis and glycolytic pH drop were used to evaluate the activity of S. mutans in vitro. Meanwhile, the investigation of the bacteriostatic mechanism included membrane protein, fluidity, permeability, and integrity tests. The results showed that P-AN was a kind of proanthocyanidin mainly composed of B-type proanthocyanidins and their polymers. Moreover, MADLI-TOF-MS and thiolysis experiments demonstrated that the degree of polymerization of P-AN was 13. The time-kill analysis showed that P-AN had strong bactericidal activity against S. mutans. P-AN at minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) concentrations was able to induce S. mutans death, while complete lethality occurred at 2 MIC. Glycolysis test showed that P-AN significantly inhibited S. mutans acid production (P < .01). The morphological changes of S. mutans were observed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy experiments, which indicated that P-AN destroyed the cellular structure of S. mutans. At the same time, significant changes were observed in membrane proteins, fluidity, permeability, and integrity.

Conclusion

P-AN can effectively inhibit the activity of S. mutans. P-AN can reduce the erosion of the tooth surface by the acid of S. mutans. P-AN could break the structure of the cell membrane protein of S. mutans. P-AN could destroy the integrity of membrane, resulting in the death of S. mutans.