bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic inflammation response index is a useful indicator in distinguishing MOGAD from AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD
Authors: Wang Lei , Xia Ruihong , Li Xiangliang , Shan Jingli , Wang Shengjun
Published: January 2024

Objective

To identify reliable immune-inflammation indicators for distinguishing myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) from anti–aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG)-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). To assess these indicators’ predictive significance in MOGAD recurrence.

Methods

This study included 25 MOGAD patients, 60 AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD patients, and 60 healthy controls (HCs). Age and gender were matched among these three groups. Participant clinical and imaging findings, expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) information, and blood cell counts were documented. Subsequently, immune-inflammation indicators were calculated and compared among the MOGAD, AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD, and HC groups. Furthermore, we employed ROC curve analysis to assess the predictive performance of each indicator and binary logistic regression analysis to assess potential risk factors.

Results

In MOGAD patients, systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), CSF white cell count (WCC), and CSF immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels were significantly higher than in AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD patients (p = 0.038, p = 0.039, p = 0.021, respectively). The ROC curves showed that SIRI had a sensitivity of 0.68 and a specificity of 0.7 for distinguishing MOGAD from AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD, with an AUC of 0.692 (95% CI: 0.567-0.818, p = 0.0054). Additionally, compared to HCs, both MOGAD and AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD patients had higher neutrophils, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), SIRI, and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII). Eight (32%) of the 25 MOGAD patients had recurrence within 12 months. We found that the monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR, AUC = 0.805, 95% CI = 0.616–0.994, cut-off value = 0.200, sensitivity = 0.750, specificity = 0.882) was an effective predictor of MOGAD recurrence. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that MLR below 0.200 at first admission was the only risk factor for recurrence (p = 0.005, odds ratio =22.5, 95% CI: 2.552–198.376).

Conclusion

Elevated SIRI aids in distinguishing MOGAD from AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD; lower MLR levels may be linked to the risk of MOGAD recurrence.
Diffusion tensor imaging and plasma immunological biomarker panel in a rat traumatic brain injury (TBI) model and in human clinical TBI
Authors: To Xuan Vinh , Mohamed Abdalla Z. , Cumming Paul , Nasrallah Fatima A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Neuroinflammatory reactions play a significant role in the pathology and long-term consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and may mediate salutogenic processes that white matter integrity. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between inflammatory markers and white matter integrity following TBI in both a rat TBI model and clinical TBI cases.

Methods

In the rat model, blood samples were collected following a controlled cortical impact (CCI) to assess a panel of inflammatory markers; MR-based diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was employed to evaluate white matter integrity 60 days post-injury. 15 clinical TBI patients were similarly assessed for a panel of inflammatory markers and DTI post-intensive care unit discharge. Blood samples from healthy controls were used for comparison of the inflammatory markers.

Results

Time-dependent elevations in immunological markers were observed in TBI rats, with a correlation to preserved fractional anisotropy (FA) in white matter. Specifically, TBI-induced increased plasma levels of IL-1β, IL-6, G-CSF, CCL3, CCL5, and TNF-α were associated with higher white matter integrity, as measured by FA. Clinical cases had similar findings: elevated inflammatory markers (relative to controls) were associated with preservation of FA in vulnerable white matter regions.

Discussion

Inflammatory markers in post-TBI plasma samples are ambivalent with respect to prediction of favourable outcome versus a progression to more pervasive pathology and morbidity.
Lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase level predicts the severity and prognosis of patients with community-acquired pneumonia: a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Chen Li , Xue Jianbo , Zhao Lili , He Yukun , Fu Shining , Ma Xinqian , Yu Wenyi , Tang Yanfen , Wang Yu , Gao Zhancheng
Published: January 2024

Background

Identifying the diagnosis as well as prognosis for patients presented with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains challenging. We aimed to identify the role of lysophosphatidylcholine acyl-transferase (LPCAT) for CAP along with assessing this protein’s effectiveness as a biomarker for severity of disease and mortality.

Methods

Prospective multicenter research study was carried out among hospitalized patients. A total of 299 CAP patients (including 97 severe CAP patients [SCAP]) and 20 healthy controls (HC) were included. A quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent test kit was employed for detecting the LPCAT level in plasma. We developed a deep-learning-based binary classification (SCAP or non-severe CAP [NSCAP]) model to process LPCAT levels and other laboratory test results.

Results

The level of LPCAT in patients with SCAP and death outcome was significantly higher than that in other patients. LPCAT showed the highest predictive value for SCAP. LPCAT was able to predict 30-day mortality among CAP patients, combining LPCAT values with PSI scores or CURB-65 further enhance mortality prediction accuracy.

Conclusion

The on admission level of LPCAT found significantly raised among SCAP patients and strongly predicted SCAP patients but with no correlation to etiology. Combining the LPCAT value with CURB-65 or PSI improved the 30-day mortality forecast significantly.

Trial registration

NCT03093220 Registered on March 28th, 2017.
Anxiety disorders and adhesive capsulitis: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ouyang Yi , Dai Miaomiao
Published: January 2024

Background

Previous epidemiological investigations and related research efforts consistently have outlined an observable association between anxiety disorders and adhesive capsulitis (AC). However, the intricate nature of the causal connection between these entities has yet to be fully clarified. Therefore, this investigative study aims to thoroughly examine and delineate the causal interrelationship between anxiety disorders and AC using a bidirectional, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach.

Methods

To pursue this inquiry, datasets related to anxiety disorders and AC were meticulously obtained from a publicly accessible genomewide association study. Instrumental variables, in the form of single nucleotide polymorphisms, were subsequently identified, undergoing a rigorous screening process that included intensity adjustment and the amelioration of linkage disequilibrium. The primary analytical tool for scrutinizing causal ramifications was the inverse variance weighting (IVW) methodology, complemented by supplementary analytical techniques such as weighted median, MR-Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode. Additionally, evaluations of heterogeneity and pleiotropy were meticulously conducted. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran’s Q-test in conjunction with the IVW and MR-Egger methods, while pleiotropy was appraised through the MR-Egger intercept and MR-PRESSO analysis methods. A leave-one-out analysis was undertaken to enhance the reliability of our findings. Finally, AC was utilized to infer reverse causality concerning the risk of anxiety disorders.

Results

The random effects IVW analysis results yielded statistical significance (P = 9.362 × 10-6), demonstrating a causal link between anxiety disorders and elevated susceptibility to AC, reflected in an odds ratio of 1.267 (95% confidence interval: 1.141–1.407). Conversely, the inverse MR analysis predominantly produced null findings. Furthermore, sensitivity analyses underscored the robustness of our conclusions.

Conclusion

In summary, our meticulously conducted study unequivocally supports the presence of a causal connection between anxiety disorders and an increased propensity for AC. Unfortunately, the reverse MR analysis failed to provide compelling evidence indicative of a reciprocal genetic causative relationship between AC and anxiety disorders.
MXSGD alleviates CsA-induced hypoimmunity lung injury by regulating microflora metabolism
Authors: Ye Chun , Gao Zi han , Bie Zi-yi , Chen Kai-qin , Lu Fang guo , Wei Ke
Published: January 2024

Context

Ma Xing Shi Gan Decoction (MXSGD) is a traditional remedy for treating lung injuries that was developed by the Typhoid and Fever School of Pharmaceutical Biology. It has antitussive and expectorant effects, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, regulates the body’s immunity, etc.

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate whether MXSGD can ameliorate cyclosporine A (CsA)-induced hypoimmunity lung injury by regulating microflora metabolism. Methods: Establishment of a model for CsA-induced hypoimmunity lung injury. Using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing and LC-MS, the effects of MXSGD on gut flora and lung tissue microecology of mice with CsA-induced hypoimmunity were investigated.

Results

MXSGD was able to preserve lung tissue morphology and structure, reduce serum inflammatory marker expression and protect against CsA-induced lung tissue damage. Compared to the model, MXSGD increased beneficial gut bacteria: Eubacterium ventriosum group and Eubacterium nodatum group; decreased intestinal pathogens: Rikenellaceae RC9 intestinal group; reduced the abundance of Chryseobacterium and Acinetobacter, promoted the production of Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, and then promoted the lung flora to produce short-chain fatty acids. MXSGD was able to enhance the expression of serum metabolites such as Americine, 2-hydroxyhexadecanoylcarnitine, Emetine, All-trans-decaprenyl diphosphate, Biliverdin-IX-alpha, Hordatin A and N-demethyl mifepristone in the CsA-induced hypoimmunity lung injury model.

Conclusion

MXSGD can restore gut and lung microbiota diversity and serum metabolite changes to inhibit inflammation, ameliorate CsA-induced hypoimmunity lung injury.
Identification and verification of diagnostic biomarkers based on mitochondria-related genes related to immune microenvironment for preeclampsia using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Huang Pu , Song Yuchun , Yang Yu , Bai Feiyue , Li Na , Liu Dan , Li Chunfang , Li Xuelan , Gou Wenli , Zong Lu
Published: January 2024

Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Preeclampsia is linked to mitochondrial dysfunction as a contributing factor in its progression. This study aimed to develop a novel diagnostic model based on mitochondria-related genes(MRGs) for preeclampsia using machine learning and further investigate the association of the MRGs and immune infiltration landscape in preeclampsia. In this research, we analyzed GSE75010 database and screened 552 DE-MRGs between preeclampsia samples and normal samples. Enrichment assays indicated that 552 DE-MRGs were mainly related to energy metabolism pathway and several different diseases. Then, we performed LASSO and SVM-RFE and identified three critical diagnostic genes for preeclampsia, including CPOX, DEGS1 and SH3BP5. In addition, we developed a novel diagnostic model using the above three genes and its diagnostic value was confirmed in GSE44711, GSE75010 datasets and our cohorts. Importantly, the results of RT-PCR confirmed the expressions of CPOX, DEGS1 and SH3BP5 were distinctly increased in preeclampsia samples compared with normal samples. The results of the CIBERSORT algorithm revealed a striking dissimilarity between the immune cells found in preeclampsia samples and those found in normal samples. In addition, we found that the levels of SH3BP5 were closely associated with several immune cells, highlighting its potential involved in immune microenvironment of preeclampsia. Overall, this study has provided a novel diagnostic model and diagnostic genes for preeclampsia while also revealing the association between MRGs and immune infiltration. These findings offer valuable insights for further research and treatment of preeclampsia.
Impact of structural modifications of IgG antibodies on effector functions
Authors: Damelang Timon , Brinkhaus Maximilian , van Osch Thijs L. J. , Schuurman Janine , Labrijn Aran F. , Rispens Theo , Vidarsson Gestur
Published: January 2024

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are a critical component of the adaptive immune system, binding to and neutralizing pathogens and other foreign substances. Recent advances in molecular antibody biology and structural protein engineering enabled the modification of IgG antibodies to enhance their therapeutic potential. This review summarizes recent progress in both natural and engineered structural modifications of IgG antibodies, including allotypic variation, glycosylation, Fc engineering, and Fc gamma receptor binding optimization. We discuss the functional consequences of these modifications to highlight their potential for therapeutical applications.
Host-directed therapy against mycobacterium tuberculosis infections with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhao Li , Fan Ke , Sun Xuezhi , Li Wei , Qin Fenfen , Shi Liwen , Gao Feng , Zheng Chunlan
Published: January 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by the bacterial pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and is one of the principal reasons for mortality and morbidity worldwide. Currently, recommended anti-tuberculosis drugs include isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. TB treatment is lengthy and inflicted with severe side-effects, including reduced patient compliance with treatment and promotion of drug-resistant strains. TB is also prone to other concomitant diseases such as diabetes and HIV. These drug-resistant and complex co-morbid characteristics increase the complexity of treating MTB. Host-directed therapy (HDT), which effectively eliminates MTB and minimizes inflammatory tissue damage, primarily by targeting the immune system, is currently an attractive complementary approach. The drugs used for HDT are repositioned drugs in actual clinical practice with relative safety and efficacy assurance. HDT is a potentially effective therapeutic intervention for the treatment of MTB and diabetic MTB, and can compensate for the shortcomings of current TB therapies, including the reduction of drug resistance and modulation of immune response. Here, we summarize the state-of-the-art roles and mechanisms of HDT in immune modulation and treatment of MTB, with a special focus on the role of HDT in diabetic MTB, to emphasize the potential of HDT in controlling MTB infection.
Peripheral immune responses to filoviruses in a reservoir versus spillover hosts reveal transcriptional correlates of disease
Authors: Guito Jonathan C. , Arnold Catherine E. , Schuh Amy J. , Amman Brian R. , Sealy Tara K. , Spengler Jessica R. , Harmon Jessica R. , Coleman-McCray Joann D. , Sanchez-Lockhart Mariano , Palacios Gustavo F. , Towner Jonathan S. , Prescott Joseph B.
Published: January 2024

Several filoviruses, including Marburg virus (MARV), cause severe disease in humans and nonhuman primates (NHPs). However, the Egyptian rousette bat (ERB, Rousettus aegyptiacus), the only known MARV reservoir, shows no overt illness upon natural or experimental infection, which, like other bat hosts of zoonoses, is due to well-adapted, likely species-specific immune features. Despite advances in understanding reservoir immune responses to filoviruses, ERB peripheral blood responses to MARV and how they compare to those of diseased filovirus-infected spillover hosts remain ill-defined. We thus conducted a longitudinal analysis of ERB blood gene responses during acute MARV infection. These data were then contrasted with a compilation of published primate blood response studies to elucidate gene correlates of filovirus protection versus disease. Our work expands on previous findings in MARV-infected ERBs by supporting both host resistance and disease tolerance mechanisms, offers insight into the peripheral immunocellular repertoire during infection, and provides the most direct known cross-examination between reservoir and spillover hosts of the most prevalently-regulated response genes, pathways and activities associated with differences in filovirus pathogenesis and pathogenicity.
The prognostic implications and tumor-suppressive functions of CYR61 in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Li Zhihua , Hu Kaiheng , Ren Yifei , Zhang Haoran , Zhao Yuankang , Wei Wenjing , Tu Shuo , Yan Xiaohua
Published: January 2024

Due to the therapeutic resistance of endocrine therapy and the limited efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer (BRCA), there is an urgent need to develop novel prognostic markers and understand the regulation of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). As a matricellular protein, CYR61 has been shown to either promote or suppress cancer progression depending on cancer types. However, how CYR61 functions in ER-positive BRCA remains elusive. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed the expression of CYR61 in BRCA based on the TCGA and METABRIC databases. Our findings showed that the expression of CYR61 is downregulated in different subtypes of BRCA, which is associated with elevated promoter methylation levels and predicts bad clinical outcomes. By comparing the high or low CYR61 expression groups of ER-positive BRCA patients, we found that CYR61 is intimately linked to the expression of genes involved in tumor-suppressive pathways, such as the TGF-β and TNF signaling pathways, and genes related to cytokine-receptor interaction that may regulate cancer immunity. Moreover, reduced CYR61 expression is associated with an altered TIME that favors cancer progression. Finally, experimental analyses ascertained that CYR61 is downregulated in clinical BRCA tissues compared to matched normal breast tissues. Furthermore, CYR61 is able to impede the proliferation and colony formation of ER-positive BRCA cells. In summary, our study reveals that CYR61 could serve as a novel prognostic marker for ER-positive BRCA, and function as an inhibitor of cancer progression by both acting on cancer cells and remodeling the TIME.
Immunotherapy of mesothelioma: the evolving change of a long-standing therapeutic dream
Authors: Calabrò Luana , Bronte Giuseppe , Grosso Federica , Cerbone Luigi , Delmonte Angelo , Nicolini Fabio , Mazza Massimiliano , Di Giacomo Anna Maria , Covre Alessia , Lofiego Maria Fortunata , Crinò Lucio , Maio Michele
Published: January 2024

Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is an aggressive and rare disease, characterized by a very poor prognosis. For almost two decades, the world standard treatment regimen for unresectable PM has consisted of a platinum-based drug plus pemetrexed, leading to an overall survival of approximately 12 months. The dramatic therapeutic scenario of PM has recently changed with the entry into the clinic of immune checkpoint inhibition, which has proven to be an effective approach to improve the survival of PM patients. The aim of the present review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the most promising immunotherapeutic-based strategies currently under investigation for advanced PM.
Severe gut mucosal injury induces profound systemic inflammation and spleen-associated lymphoid organ response
Authors: Wang Xiao , Du Chao , Subramanian Saravanan , Turner Lucas , Geng Hua , Bu Heng-Fu , Tan Xiao-Di
Published: January 2024

Clinical evidence indicates a connection between gut injuries, infections, inflammation, and an increased susceptibility to systemic inflammation. Nevertheless, the animal models designed to replicate this progression are inadequate, and the fundamental mechanisms are still largely unknown. This research explores the relationship between gut injuries and systemic inflammation using a Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-induced colonic mucosal injury mouse model. Continuous treatment of adult mice with 4% DSS drinking water yielded a remarkable mortality rate by day 7, alongside intensified gut injury and detectable peripheral inflammation. Moreover, RNAscope in situ hybridization with 16S rRNA probe noted bacterial penetration into deeper colon compartments of the mice following treatment with DSS for 7 days. Histological analysis revealed inflammation in the liver and lung tissues of DSS-treated mice. In addition, we found that DSS-treated mice exhibited elevation of Alanine transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate transaminase (AST) in peripheral blood and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in the liver. Notably, the DSS-treated mice displayed a dampened metabolic profile, reduced CD45 marker expression, and an increase in apoptosis within the lymphoid organ such as spleen. These findings suggest that high-dose DSS-induced gut injury gives rise to sepsis-like systemic inflammation characterized by multiple organ injury and profound splenocyte apoptosis and dysfunction of CD45+ cells in the spleen, indicating the role of the spleen in the pathogenesis of gut-derived systemic inflammation. Together, the severe colonic mucosal injury model facilitates research into gut damage and associated peripheral immune responses, providing a vital framework for investigating mechanisms related to clinically relevant, gut-derived systemic inflammation.
Assessing biogeochemical controls on porewater dissolved inorganic carbon cycling in the gas hydrate-bearing sediments of the Makran accretionary wedge, Northeastern Arabian Sea off Pakistan
Authors: Chen Yuanqing , Xu Sinan , Liu Weining , Zhang Zhen , Yang Tianbang , Xiao Xiao , Deng Xiguang , Li Jiangtao , Yao Huiqiang , Wu Zijun
Published: January 2024

Quantitatively assessing the porewater dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) cycling in methane-enriched marine sediments is crucial to understanding the contributions of different carbon sources to the global marine carbon pool. In this study, Makran accretionary wedge was divided into Zone 1 (high methane flux area) and Zone 2 (background area). Porewater geochemical compositions (Cl–, SO42–, NH4+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Ba2+, DIC and δ13C-DIC) and a reaction-transport model were used to determine the DIC source and calculate the DIC flux through carbonate precipitation and releasing into overlying seawater in sediments. Zone 1 is characterized by the shallower depth of sulfate-methane transition (SMT), where most of porewater sulfate was consumed by anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM). In contrast, a relatively low flux of methane diffusion in Zone 2 results in a deeper SMT depth and shallow sulfate is predominantly consumed by organoclastic sulfate reduction (OSR). Based on the porewater geochemical profiles and δ13C mass balance, the proportions of porewater DIC originating from methane were calculated as 51% in Zone 1 and nearly 0% in Zone 2. An increase of porewater DIC concentration leads to authigenic carbonate precipitation. Solid total inorganic carbon (TIC), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis display that carbonate content increases with depth and aragonite appears at or below the depths of SMT. Meanwhile, the flux of DIC released from sediments calculated by the reaction-transport model is 51.3 ~ 90.4 mmol/m2·yr in Zone 1, which is significantly higher than that in Zone 2 (22.4 mmol/m2·yr). This study demonstrates that AOM serves as the dominant biogeochemical process regulating the porewater DIC cycle, which has an important impact on the authigenic carbonate burial and the seawater carbonate chemistry.
Contribution of surface and lateral forcing to the Arabian Gulf warming trend
Authors: Vasou Panagiotis , Krokos George , Langodan Sabique , Sofianos Sarantis , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: January 2024

The contribution of surface and lateral forcing to the observed Arabian Gulf warming trend is studied based on the results of a high-resolution (1/100°, 60 vertical layers) MIT general circulation model (MITgcm) covering the period 1993–2021. The model validation against available observations reveals that the simulation satisfactorily reproduces the main features of the Arabian Gulf’s dynamics and their variability. We show that the heat content of the Arabian Gulf generally follows the reported variability of sea surface temperature, with significant increasing trends of 0.1 × 107 J m−3 and 0.2°C per decade. The interannual variability of the heat content is dominated by the surface heat fluxes, while the long-term warming of the basin is primarily driven by lateral fluxes. The analyses of the heat exchanges through the Strait of Hormuz indicate a pronounced upward trend in the transported heat toward the Arabian Gulf, which is associated with an increase in both the volume and temperature of the exchanged waters. Considering the inflow and outflow in the Strait separately, the temperature increase is more prominent in the inflowing waters; however, the dominant factor driving the rising trend in heat content exchanges is the increase in the volume of waters being exchanged. This implies that the observed warming of the Arabian Gulf during the investigated period is directly related to the acceleration of its overturning circulation.
Calcification and trophic responses of mesophotic reefs to carbonate chemistry variability
Authors: Noyes Timothy J. , Garley Rebecca , Bates Nicholas R.
Published: January 2024

Mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) are extensions of adjacent shallow water coral reefs. Accessibility to these ecosystems is challenging due to their depth limits (~ 30 – 150 m) and as a result, scientific knowledge of these reef systems is limited. It has been posited that the depth limits of MCEs diminish anthropogenic effects experienced by shallow reef systems. A lack of empirical measurements to date has made this hypothesis impossible to determine for mesophotic reef metabolism. The alkalinity anomaly technique was utilized to determine rates of net ecosystem calcification (NEC) and net ecosystem production (NEP) from 30, 40 and 60 m mesophotic reefs during a 15-month period. Seawater chemistry was determined to be chemically conducive for calcification (average aragonite saturation Ωaragonite of 3.58, average calcite saturation Ωcalcite of 5.44) with estimates of NEC indicating these reef systems were net accretive and within global average values for shallow coral reefs (< 30 m). The strongest periods of calcification occurred in late summer and were coupled with strong autotrophic signals. These episodes were followed by suppressed calcification and autotrophy and in the case of the 60 m reefs, a switch to heterotrophy. Whilst there was variability between the three reefs depths, the overall status of the mesophotic system was net autotrophic. This determination was the opposite of trophic status estimates previously described for adjacent shallow reefs. Whilst there were periods of net dissolution, the mesophotic reef system was net accretive (i.e., gross calcification > gross CaCO3 dissolution). The measured inorganic carbon chemistry and estimates of NEC and NEP represent the first such biogeochemical measurements for MCEs. The values established by this study demonstrate just how close these understudied ecosystems are in terms of the known boundary thresholds for low saturation state reefs. Making predictions on how these ecosystems will respond to future climatic conditions, will require greater sampling effort over long times scales to decouple the environmental controls exerted on such ecosystems.
A comprehensive approach to assessing eutrophication for the Guangdong coastal waters in China
Authors: Zhou Jing , Wang You-Shao
Published: January 2024

Eutrophication is a global issue associated with increasing anthropogenic activities. Previous studies have mainly focused on nutrients and phytoplankton biomass in some typical estuaries and bays along the Guangdong coast, while integrated evaluations of eutrophication status based on ecological symptoms is still rare in this area. To better understand the health of the Guangdong coastal waters, two comprehensive methods including the Assessment of Estuarine Trophic Status (ASSETS) and the Northwest Pacific Action Plan Common Procedure (NOWPAP CP) were employed with slight modifications. The study area was divided into eight coastal zones (Z1~Z8) based on multiple criteria including salinity, catchment range, and administrative division. The results of the modified NOWPAP CP method demonstrated a generally increasing trend in the degree and effects of nutrient enrichment along the Guangdong coast in the past 30 years mainly due to the increasing nutrients and chlorophyll a (Chl-a). The results of the modified ASSETS method revealed that the water quality was between moderate and high for most coastal zones during 2015-2018, with the highest score (0.83) in the northern part of the Pearl River Estuary (PRE). However, the ecological symptoms showed inconsistent spatial patterns with the water quality, being high or moderate high in Z2 (including Zhanjiang Harbor and Leizhou Bay), Z4~Z5 (representing the northern and southern parts of the PRE, respectively), and Z6 (containing Mirs Bay and Daya Bay) for severe ecological symptoms, such as high levels of Chl-a, frequent harmful algal blooms (HABs). Moreover, eutrophication in Z4~Z6 may further deteriorate due to the increasing nutrient loads driven by growing economy and population. Synthetically, Z2, Z4~Z6 were graded between poor and bad for the overall eutrophication conditions (OEC), while Z1 (including the western and southern parts of the Leizhou Peninsula) and Z7 (consisting of Honghai Bay and Jieshi Bay) had a good OEC. The application of the modified ASSETS method effectively identified areas of severe eutrophication problems and the prospect of nutrient load along the Guangdong coast. The assessment results revealed the spatiotemporal variations and potential trends in the eutrophication status, providing scientific basis for the coastal management related to nutrient problems.
Assessment of nursery areas for the scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini) across the Eastern Tropical Pacific using a stable isotopes approach
Authors: Páez-Rosas Diego , Suarez-Moncada Jenifer , Arnés-Urgellés Camila , Espinoza Eduardo , Robles Yolani , Salinas-De-León Pelayo
Published: January 2024

The scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini) is one of the most iconic marine species across the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP), yet little is still known about its reproductive biology and the origin of their nursery areas, despite a continuous global decline in their populations. Understanding the origin of shark nurseries is a complex task; however, it is known that the obtention of resources in the first stages of life of placental sharks occurs through maternal reminiscence, thus it is possible to infer the origin of the energy that neonates accumulate during their gestation. In this study we assessed the ecological connectivity and nursery ground use by undertaking a stable isotope analysis of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) in skin samples of neonates S. lewini across much of their distribution in the ETP, including the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR). Our isotopic mixing models revealed that the S. lewini neonates found in the GMR, have isotopic information similar to adult females inhabit in the Galapagos archipelago, suggesting that they are direct descendants of the females that inhabit the GMR. While neonates found off the continental coasts of Ecuador and Panama have isotopic signatures like those of adult females inhabiting several locations across the ETP. This work provides insight into the origin of nursery areas used by adult S. lewini that aggregate in large numbers across oceanic islands of the ETP, highlighting the value of isotopic models to generate useful information for the conservation of sharks.
Longitudinal dissolved oxygen patterns in Atlantic salmon aquaculture sites in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Jeong Jaewoon , Awosile Babafela , Thakur Krishna K. , Stryhn Henrik , Boyce Brad , Vanderstichel Raphael
Published: January 2024

Dissolved oxygen (DO), an important water-quality parameter required to support aquatic life, is a critical factor for determining the general biological health of the aquatic ecosystem, and the concentration of DO is a critical factor in determining salmon growth and welfare. This study used longitudinal DO concentration, recorded hourly from 21 aquaculture sites, each with loggers in three separate cages, in four areas in British Columbia, Canada, between 2015 and 2017. The measurements were evaluated based on the recommended DO concentrations for protection of salmonids from hypoxia. Using a two-stage time-series analysis, we described variations in DO concentrations measured over the study period and their associations with environmental factors. Based on the water quality criteria for DO concentration, 42.3, 56.5, and 1.2% of the hourly DO data from the overall 21 aquaculture sites were classified as ‘optimal’, ‘sub-optimal’, and ‘stressed’, respectively. The frequency of hypoxic episodes differed substantially among seasons, aquaculture sites and even among cages within sites. The effects of environmental variables on DO concentration had markedly different patterns depending on the season. Significant associations with DO concentrations were observed for temperatures in the summer and winter months, and both wind direction and remotely-sensed estimated absorption from phytoplankton [aph(443)] in the winter months. The time-series regression model results showed overall (year-round) associations of temperature, wind speed, and aph(443) with DO concentrations. Describing DO measurements at these aquaculture sites provided an understanding of how much they deviated from the recommended DO concentrations, as well as provide baseline information for future water resource planning, including continued and improved water quality monitoring in aquaculture areas.
A new boundary growth model for the analysis of microscopic blockage and various cross-section shapes effects in porous functional medical material
Authors: Hao Junhong , Wu Xuefeng , Ma Tengyu , Ju Chenzhi , Hao Tong , Li Wenchao
Published: January 2024

It is crucial to simulate the physical processes of blood flow in functional medical materials in order to characterize their functional properties in different scenarios. In this paper, the microscopic obstruction model of blood coagulation by functional hemostatic materials with boundary growth factor is constructed by CFD for the first time. Moreover, the effects of different inlet pressures, temperatures and material shapes on the hemostatic properties of the materials were analyzed using blood flow rate and blockage time as metrics. The researches show that: as blood flows into the material, thrombus begins to form at the boundary and progresses toward the center; smaller inlet pressures promote thrombus growth; external temperature has little effect on thrombus growth; materials possessing smaller flow rates beneficial to thrombus growth; and the larger the cross-sectional area in the material’s flow channel, the faster blood coagulates. This study provides new ideas for characterizing the performance of functional hemostatic materials and the design of hemostatic materials in different application scenarios.
Family physicians overestimate diagnosis probabilities regardless of the test results
Authors: Ataç Ömer , Küçükali Hüseyin , Farımaz Ayşe Zülal Tokaç , Palteki Ayşe Seval , Çavdar Sabanur , Aslan Melek Nur , Atak Muhammed , Sezerol Mehmet Akif , Taşçı Yusuf , Hayran Osman
Published: January 2024

Introduction

As useful tools for clinical decision-making, diagnostic tests require careful interpretation in order to prevent underdiagnosis, overdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. The aim of this study was to explore primary care practitioners’ understanding and interpretation of the probability of disease before and after test results for six common clinical scenarios.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 414 family physicians who were working at primary care in Istanbul via face-to-face interviews held between November 2021 and March 2022. The participants were asked to estimate the probability of diagnosis in six clinical scenarios provided to them. Clinical scenarios were about three cancer screening cases (breast, cervical and colorectal), and three infectious disease cases (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, and COVID-19). For each scenario participants estimated the probability of the diagnosis before application of a diagnostic test, after a positive test result, and after a negative test result. Their estimates were compared with the true answers derived from relevant guidelines.

Results

For all scenarios, physicians’ estimates were significantly higher than the scientific evidence range. The minimum overestimation was positive test result for COVID-19 and maximum was pre-test case for cervical cancer. In the hypothetical control question for prevalence and test accuracy, physicians estimated disease probability as 95.0% for a positive test result and 5.0% for a negative test result while the correct answers were 2.0 and 0%, respectively (p < 0.001).

Discussion

Comparing the scientific evidence, overestimation in all diagnostic scenarios, regardless of if the disease is an acute infection or a cancer, may indicate that the probabilistic approach is not conducted by the family physicians. To prevent inaccurate interpretation of the tests that may lead to incorrect or unnecessary treatments with adverse consequences, evidence-based decision-making capacity must be strengthened.
Risk factors and current state of therapy for anemia after kidney transplantation
Authors: Tang Yan , Guo Jiayu , Zhou Jiangqiao , Wan Zijie , Li Jinke , Qiu Tao
Published: January 2024

Post-transplant anemia is one of the most common complications in kidney transplant recipients, severely affecting patient prognosis and quality of life, and is an independent predictor of graft kidney loss and patient mortality. However, our clinical understanding and the attention given to post-transplant anemia are currently insufficient. This paper reviews the current status, risk factors, and therapeutic progress in anemia after transplantation in kidney transplant recipients. We recommend that clinical staff pay attention to anemia and its complications in kidney transplant recipients and intervene early for anemia.
Emergency medicine pharmacotherapy compromises accuracy of plasma creatinine determination by enzyme-based methods: real-world clinical evidence and implications for clinical practice
Authors: Demlova Regina , Kozakova Sarka , Rihacek Michal , Buckova Dana , Horska Katerina , Wiewiorka Ondrej , Boucek Lubos , Selingerova Iveta , Podborska Martina , Korberova Alena , Mikuskova Alena , Starha Jiri , Benovska Miroslava , Radina Martin , Richter Michal , Zdrazilova Dubska Lenka , Valik Dalibor
Published: January 2024

Background

Assessment of kidney function in emergency settings is essential across all medical subspecialties. Daily assessment of patient creatinine results from emergency medical services showed that some deviated from expected values, implying drug-related interference.

Methods

Real-time clinical evaluation of an enzyme method (Roche CREP2) in comparison with the Jaffé gen. 2 method (Roche CREJ2) was performed. During the period of December 2022 and January 2023, we analyzed 8,498 patient samples, where 5,524 were heavily medicated STAT patient specimens, 500 were pediatric specimens, and 2,474 were from a distant general population in a different region using the same methods.

Results

In 109 out of 5,524 hospital specimens (1.97%, p < 0.001), the CREP2 value was apparently (25% or more) lower than CREJ2. Suspect interfering medication was found in a sample of 43 out of 46 reviewed patients where medication data were available. This phenomenon was not observed in the general population.

Conclusion

In a polymedicated urgent care hospital population, a creatinine enzyme method produces unreliable results, apparently due to multiple drug-related interferences.
Progress in the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma by integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine
Authors: Jiang Hongxin , Bu Lina
Published: January 2024

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) overwhelmingly represents the predominant histological subtype of lung cancer, with lung adenocarcinoma emerging as the most prevalent form. Conventional Western medical treatments encompass a spectrum of modalities, including surgical interventions, cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted pharmacotherapy, and immunotherapy. In contrast, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) methodologies encompass traditional Chinese medicine treatments, acupuncture therapies, and tuina treatments. While conventional Western medicine has made remarkable strides in the treatment of lung cancer, it is important to acknowledge the limitations inherent in singular treatment approaches. Consequently, the quest for a more comprehensive and integrative therapeutic paradigm becomes imperative. A deficiency of evaluation criteria specific to lung adenocarcinoma treatment in the realm of TCM represents an outstanding challenge in need of resolution. Nonetheless, in the backdrop of the continuous evolution of lung adenocarcinoma treatment modalities, the amalgamation of Chinese and Western medical approaches for treating this condition has exhibited a promising trajectory. It not only contributes to mitigating toxicity and augmenting efficacy but also serves to reduce a spectrum of postoperative complications, thereby enhancing the quality of patients’ survival and extending life expectancy. This article furnishes a comprehensive survey of the research advancements in the integration of Chinese and Western medical approaches for treating lung adenocarcinoma. It elucidates the merits and demerits of individual and combined therapeutic strategies, surmounts current limitations, underscores the virtues of amalgamating Chinese and Western medical paradigms, and offers a more holistic, integrated, and efficacious treatment blueprint.
EUS-guided interventional therapies for pancreatic diseases
Authors: Xu Rongmin , Zhang Kai , Ge Nan , Sun Siyu
Published: January 2024

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an integrated diagnostic technique merging endoscope and ultrasound to examine the digestive system. EUS has emerged as a primary diagnostic method for pancreatic diseases due to its distinctive benefits. Over the past four decades, EUS has undergone a transformation, shifting its role from primarily diagnostic to increasingly therapeutic. Additionally, in recent years, EUS has emerged as an increasingly prominent adjunctive or alternative approach to conventional surgical interventions. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of current technological approaches in the treatment of pancreatic diseases. The dynamic interplay with diverse therapeutic approaches has reinvigorated EUS and shaped its trajectory in the management of pancreatic diseases.
Novel and reported compensatory mutations in rpoABC genes found in drug resistant tuberculosis outbreaks
Authors: Conkle-Gutierrez Derek , Ramirez-Busby Sarah M. , Gorman Bria M. , Elghraoui Afif , Hoffner Sven , Elmaraachli Wael , Valafar Faramarz
Published: January 2024

Background

Rifampicin (RIF) is a key first-line drug used to treat tuberculosis, a primarily pulmonary disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. RIF resistance is caused by mutations in rpoB, at the cost of slower growth and reduced transcription efficiency. Antibiotic resistance to RIF is prevalent despite this fitness cost. Compensatory mutations in rpoABC genes have been shown to alleviate the fitness cost of rpoB:S450L, explaining how RIF resistant strains harbor this mutation can spread so rapidly. Unfortunately, the full set of RIF compensatory mutations is still unknown, particularly those compensating for rarer RIF resistance mutations.

Objectives

We performed an association study on a globally representative set of 4,309 whole genome sequenced clinical M. tuberculosis isolates to identify novel putative compensatory mutations, determine the prevalence of known and previously reported putative compensatory mutations, and determine which RIF resistance markers associate with these compensatory mutations.

Results and conclusions

Of the 1,079 RIF resistant isolates, 638 carried previously reported putative and high-probability compensatory mutations. Our strict criteria identified 46 additional mutations in rpoABC for which no strong prior evidence of their compensatory role exists. Of these, 35 have previously been reported. As such, our independent corroboration adds to the mounting evidence that these 35 also carry a compensatory role. The remaining 11 are novel putative compensatory markers, reported here for the first time. Six of these 11 novel putative compensatory mutations had two or more mutation events. Most compensatory mutations appear to be specifically compensating for the fitness loss due to rpoB:S450L. However, an outbreak of 22 closely related isolates each carried three rpoB mutations, the rare RIFR markers D435G and L452P and the putative compensatory mutation I1106T. This suggests compensation may require specific combinations of rpoABC mutations. Here, we report only mutations that met our very strict criteria. It is highly likely that many additional rpoABC mutations compensate for rare resistance-causing mutations and therefore did not carry the statistical power to be reported here. These findings aid in the identification of RIF resistant M. tuberculosis strains with restored fitness, which pose a greater risk of causing resistant outbreaks.
Simultaneous detection of human norovirus GI, GII and SARS-CoV-2 by a quantitative one-step triplex RT-qPCR
Authors: Yi Hua-Wei , Wang Xian-Mo , Tan Xin , Ding Cai-Zhi , Zhang Chang-Li , Wu Jia-Hao , Li Qi , Xin Chen-Qi , Fan Wen
Published: January 2024

Background

There are many similarities in the clinical manifestations of human norovirus and SARS-CoV-2 infections, and nucleic acid detection is the gold standard for diagnosing both diseases. In order to expedite the identification of norovirus and SARS-CoV-2, a quantitative one-step triplex reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) method was designed in this paper.

Methods

A one-step triplex RT-qPCR assay was developed for simultaneous detection and differentiation of human norovirus GI (NoV-GI), GII (NoV-GII) and SARS-CoV-2 from fecal specimens.

Results

The triplex RT-qPCR assay had high detection reproducibility (CV < 1%) and sensitivity. The lower limits of detection (LLOD95) of the triplex RT-qPCR assay for each target site were 128.5–172.8 copies/mL, and LLOD95 of the singleplex RT-qPCR assay were 110.3–142.0 copies/mL. Meanwhile, among the detection of clinical oropharyngeal swabs and fecal specimens, the results of the singleplex and triplex RT-qPCR assay showed high agreement.

Conclusion

The triplex RT-qPCR assay for simultaneous detection of NoV-GI, NoV-GII and SARS-CoV-2 from fecal specimens has high clinical application value.