bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Site-specific glycoproteomic analysis identifies decreasing TMX3 associated with breast cancer tumorigenesis via Notch signaling pathway
Authors: Qiu Dandan , Zhang Shuo , Ma Feixia , Chen Chunyan , Ju Penglei
Published: December 2023

Numerous studies have demonstrated that protein glycosylation participated in cancer progression. However, the site-specific glycoproteomic analysis and potential targets of breast cancer (BC) are largely unknown. In this study, the intact glycopeptides of BC cells were enriched and investigated by applying mass spectrometry-based glycoproteomic strategies, followed by the widespread mapping of site-speific glycan structures via StrucGP. Cell viability, colony formation, migration assays and in vivo tumorigenesis were performed to assess the biological functions of unique glycoprotein TMX3. Glycoproteomic analysis revealed that glycoproteins with core fucosylated and sialylated glycan structures may be extremely associated with focal adhesion, ECM-receptor interaction, cell proliferation, migration, and notch signaling. Meanwhile, we found that ITGA2, ITGA3, ITGAV, ITGB1, NT5E, PLAUR, BTD, P4HTM, TMX3, SUMF1, MBTPS1, MAN2B2, GNPTG, CD40, and PLAT may have considerable predictive advantages in BC. Among them, decreased TMX3 suggested poor medical ending in BC patients. Notably, TMX3 was significantly down-regulated in BC cell lines and function assays showed that TMX3 overexpression inhibited BC cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers both in vitro and in vivo by repressing Jagged 1/Notch1 pathway. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that TMX3 might function as an oncogene to promote BC progression by activating Jagged 1/Notch1 pathway.
Valorization of lignocellulosic agave residues via pyrolysis and its use as adsorbent for methylene blue removal
Authors: THOMAS HABILA YUSUF , Cavalcante José Demétrio Nery , Padilha Carlos Eduardo de Araujo , Sales Aldo Torres , Santos Everaldo Silvino dos , Gasparin Fabiano Perin , Ries Lúcia Allebrandt da Silva , Dutra Emmanuel Damilano , Menezes Rômulo Simões Cezar
Published: December 2023

The economic exploitation of sisal (Agave sisalana) fibers leads to the generation of underutilized waste. Therefore, technologies must be developed to mitigate the environmental impacts caused by inadequate waste disposal and ensure more income from sisal exploration. The present study investigated the potential of agave residues in producing biochar with high adsorbent capacity via slow pyrolysis. Hybrid Itaporanga, Hybrid Bahia, and Mutant-1 hybrid agave varieties were used as precursors and methylene blue (MB) dye was used as a solute. In general, agave residues presented similar contents of lignin (12.1-13.2%) and ash (10.3-13.9%), while the greatest differences were recorded in the values of holocellulose (31.4%-42.4%) and extractives (23.2%-33.4%). The increase in temperature favored an increase in the surface area and volume of micropores in the biochar; however, the adsorption capacity of MB dye was reduced. The pseudo-second-order models effectively adjusted the adsorption kinetics. The Hybrid Itaporanga biochar obtained at 400 °C outperformed the other biochar, presenting static (80 mg.g-1) and dynamic (180 mg.g-1) adsorption values. Thus, thermochemical valorization of agave residue is attractive to obtain a cheap and environmentally friendly adsorbent.
Performance Evaluation of Truenat Mtb and Truenat Mtb-rif Dx Assays in Comparison to Gene Xpert Mtb/rif Ultra for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Uganda
Authors: Ssengooba Willy , Katamba Achilles , Sserubiri James , Semugenze Derrick , Nyombi Abdunoor , Byaruhanga Raymond , Turyahabwe Stavia , Joloba Moses
Published: December 2023

Background
The World Health Organization endorsed Truenat MTB rapid molecular assay in 2020 and recommended additional in-country evaluation studies before uptake. We evaluated the accuracy and operational feasibility of Truenat MTB assay (Truenat) in comparison with GeneXpert Ultra and culture.
Methods
In a cross-sectional study of 250 presumptive TB patients, participants were requested to provide a sputum sample on the day of their visit to the clinic. The sputum sample was homogenized and a portion was tested using GeneXpert Ultra as per the routine standard procedure and the other portion was tested using Truenat assay at the clinic laboratory. The second sample portion was processed for Concentrated Fluorescent smear Microscopy (CFM), LJ, and MGIT cultures. Truenat sensitivity and specificity were compared to GeneXpert Ultra and culture. Test performance characteristics were also collected and summarized as proportions and percentages.
Results
Of the 250 participants recruited in the study, the sensitivity and specificity of Truenat was n/N (%, 95%CI); 66/82 (80.5, 70.2–88.4) and 156/159 (98.1, 94.5–99.6) when compared with Ultra, 50/64 (89.3, 66.0-87.4) and 166/180 (92.2, 87.2–95.6) when compared with LJ, 58/71 (81.7,70.7–89.8) and 131/138 (94.9, 89.8–97.9) when compared to MGIT culture and 59/73 (80.8, 69.9–89.1) and 159/169 (94.1,89.3–97.1) when compared to LJ and/or MGIT culture. The sensitivity of Truenat was lower, 14/23 (60.9, 40.6–82.8) among smear-negative compared to 45/50 (90.0, 78.1–96.6) among smear-positive participants but not different by HIV status. There were no special training needs especially among laboratory personnel with previous GeneXpert /molecular test experience, 19/242 (7.8%) error/invalid, and 17,4% uninterpretable/indeterminate results mainly for rifampicin resistance determination.
Conclusion
Among presumptive TB patients in Uganda, the Truenat assay has high sensitivity and specificity. The Truenat assay has acceptable operational feasibility attributes when compared with the GeneXpert Assay.
Impact of a mass campaign on the evolution of the fourth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Central African Republic
Authors: RAFAÏ Clotaire Donatien , Somse Pierre Somse , Nambei Wilfrid Sylvain , Lango-Yaya Ernest , Belizaire Marie-Roseline Darnycka , Vickos Ulrich , Komas Narcisse Patrice , Senzongo Oscar , Heredeidona Luc Salva , Kotemossoua Ulrich Jeffrey , Senekian Rabbi Mermoz , Pounguiza Simon , Kaleb Jephté Estimé , Mossoro-Kpinde Christian-Diamant , Faou Alain Le , Longo Jean De Dieu , Ngbale Norbert Richard , Sepou Abdoulaye , Mbopi-Keou François-Xavier , Gresenguet Gérard , Koffi Boniface
Published: December 2023

Objective : In a context of increasing cases despite vaccination campaigns, a survey was conducted in the Bangui population in January 17 to 26, 2022 to evaluate the strains of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) circulating in a healthy population by taking nasopharyngeal samples in 2,554 randomly selected volunteers.
Antigen detection was performed systematically and RT-PCR was done on the positive samples.
Thirty samples were found RT-PCR positive (1.2%) and sent for viral genome sequencing. Twenty eight SARS-Cov-2 strains belong to Omicron type and solely 2 to Delta type.
Thus, infection were uncommon in the tested population but the presence of Omicron and Delta types make fear than vaccination will not be efficient to fight against the virus and newly designed vaccine should be implemented to better protect the population who is at risk of infection and re-infection by these variants.
High Risk Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis in Children: The role of salvage in improving the outcome. A single center experience.
Authors: Sedky Mohamed Sedky , Hamoda Asmaa , Taha Hala , Zaky Iman , Hassanain Omayma , ElHaddad Alaa
Published: December 2023

Background: In pediatric multi-system high risk organs (RO+) Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), failing 1st line treatment has the highest mortality. Hereby we aim to present the outcome of salvage whether due to disease progression (DP) at end of induction or afterwards reactivation (REA). Sixty-seven RO+ LCH patients, treated between mid-2007 and end 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. They were subjected to the LCH III protocol era, having 1st line intermediate dose methotrexate induction (ID MTX) but without salvage by 2-Cda based regimen (2-CdABR) and that of LCH IV protocol without ID MTX but with 2-CdABR salvage.
Results: Twenty-two patients showed DP. Of them 9 received 2-CdABR where 5 patients survived in better status. All the remaining 13 not receiving 2-CdABR died. Otherwise, 20 patients showed REA (RO+ mode n=12). Out of those 8 patients receiving 2-CdABR for REA RO+ mode, only one survived in better status. The overall survival (OS) of those undergoing DP was 27% CI 14-54 versus REA 67% CI 49-93 p 0.004. OS of DP with 2-CdABR was 56% CI=31-97.7 versus without 8 % CI 2-51, p<0.001. While OS of REA with 2-CdABR was 38% CI=13-100 versus without 74 % CI 53-100 p value 0.7.
Conclusion: 2-CdABR rescued DP RO+LCH in relation to regimen without. Its impact on REA remains controversial in relation to other salvage regimen.
The impact of COVID-19 on health service utilization in sub-Saharan Africa – a scoping review
Authors: Tannor Elliot Koranteng , Quentin Wilm , Busse Reinhard , Opoku Daniel , Ofori Emmanuel , Gyan Kwadwo Faka , Aikins Minas , Hutton-Mensah Kojo , Opare-Addo Priscilla , Amuasi John
Published: December 2023

Introduction
The Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19) pandemic has undoubtedly exposed weaknesses in health systems, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite comparatively low rates of COVID-19 admissions and recorded deaths in SSA, the pandemic still had a significant impact on health service utilization (HSU). The aim of this scoping review is to synthesize the available evidence on HSU in SSA during the COVID-19 pandemic focusing on changes in HSU generally and amongst particular patient groups studied.
Methods
The Scoping review was guided by the methodological framework for conducting scoping reviews developed by Arskey and O’Malley. We identified relevant studies through a search of PubMed(MEDLINE), Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. We then provided a general descriptive overview of the extracted data focusing on the types of studies, patient groups and change in HSU.
Results
We identified 262 studies reporting on HSU in 39 countries in SSA. The median study duration was 364.5[IQR:89 - 730] days. Studies were mainly quantitative 192(73.3%) and retrospective 117(44.7%). The majority were multiple centre studies 163(62.2%), hospital-based 205 (78.2%) and in urban settings 121(46.2%). Median number of participants was 8329[IQR:103-5848] involving 62.7% females. Communicable diseases were the most studied disease category in 92(35.1%) and mainly among out-patients 92(34.2%). Change in HSU was reported in 249(95.0%) of studies with 221(84.4%) of studies reporting a decrease in HSU. The median decrease in HSU was 35.6% [IQR: 19.0-55.8] and median increase was 16.2% [IQR: 9.1-31.9]. HSU was mostly reported among maternal and child health patients 58(22.1%) and people living with Human immunodeficiency virus 32(12.2%). The patient groups with the highest percentage decrease and increase in HSU were cardiovascular diseases 68.0%[IQR:16.7-71.1] and surgical cases 38.3%[IQR 24.0-52.5] respectively.
Conclusion
HSU was generally reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic among different patient groups in SSA.
The longitudinal volumetric and shape changes of subcortical nuclei in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Yang Wenyi , Bai Xueqin , Guan Xiaojun , Zhou Cheng , Guo Tao , Wu Jingjing , Xu Xiaojun , Zhang Minming , Zhang Baorong , Pu Jiali , Tian Jun
Published: December 2023

Objective Brain structural changes in Parkinson's disease (PD) are progressive throughout the disease course. Changes in surface morphology with disease progression remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the volumetric and shape changes of the subcortical nuclei during disease progression and explore their association with clinical symptoms.Methods Thirty-four patients and 32 healthy controls were enrolled. The global volume and shape of the subcortical nuclei were compared between patients and controls at baseline. The volume and shape changes of the subcortical nuclei were also explored between baseline and two years of follow-up. Association analysis was performed between the volume of subcortical structures and clinical symptoms.Results In patients with PD, there were significantly atrophied areas in the left pallidum and left putamen, while in healthy controls, the right putamen was dilated compared to baseline. The local morphology of the left pallidum in patients was correlated with Mini Mental State Examination scores. The left putamen shape variation was negatively correlated with changes in Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale PART III scores.Conclusion Local morphological atrophy of the putamen and pallidum is an important pathophysiological change in the development of PD, and is associated with motor symptoms and cognitive status in patients with PD.
Phenotypic expression and outcomes in patients with the Arg301Gln GLA variant in Anderson-Fabry disease
Authors: Blanco Rocío , Rico Yolanda , Ameijeiras Alvaro Hermida , Abdullah Israa , Kolja Lau , Rubio Jorge Alvarez , Frau Elena Fortuny , Monzonís Amparo Martínez , Nowak Albina , Nordbeck Peter , Burgos Calos Veras , Llinares Jaume Pons , Martínez Fiama Caimi , Rovira Teresa Bosch , Cervera Marta Alamar , Pizarro Virginia Ruiz , Juan Laura Torres , Heine-Suñer Damian , Rossi Emiliano , Vera Tomas Ripoll
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The Arg301Gln variant in theGLAgene has been poorly described in the literature. The few reports demonstrate different patterns of presentation of both classical and non-classical Anderson–Fabry (FD) disease, which develops later in life and with less organ damage. Theaimof this study was to analyse the penetrance, clinical phenotype, and biochemical profile of an international cohort of patients carrying the Arg301Gln genetic variant in theGLAgene.Methods: This is a retrospective observational multicentre study of patients carrying the Arg301Gln variant in theGLAgene associated with FD disease.Results: Forty-nine Arg301GlnGLAcarriers, 41% male, were analysed. The penetrance was 63% in the entire cohort and 1.5 times higher in men. The mean age of onset of symptoms was 41 years; men presented symptoms earlier and with a shorter delay to diagnosis compared to women. The classic presentation affected only 20% of the cohort, with no differences between sexes. During follow-up, almost 20% of the patients presented some type of non-fatal cardiovascular event (stroke, need for dialysis, heart failure, and arrhythmias requiring intracardiac devices), predominantly affecting men. Only a few women had normal levels of α-galactosidase A enzyme activity; residual levels were the most common finding. The incidence of combined events, including all causes of death, was 33%, and the cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality was 9%.Conclusions: Patients carrying the Arg301Gln variant in theGLAgene have a high penetrance of cardiorenal involvement with the clinical onset of the disease in middle age, and only a very low proportion showed the classical clinical presentation of FD. As in other X-linked diseases, males were more affected by severe cardiovascular and renal events. This genotype–phenotype correlation could be useful from a practical clinical point of view and for future decision-making.
Integrated Prenatal and Postnatal Management for Neonates with Transposition of the Great Arteries: Thirteen-Year Experience at A Single Center
Authors: lin xieyi , Huang Ying , Xie Wen , Chen Lu , Huang Yuping , Huang Yu , Ma Bingyu , Wen Shusheng , Pan Wei
Published: December 2023

Background
Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart defect in neonates with low prenatal detection rate. This study sought to review the prenatal diagnosis, associated abnormalities, and mid-term postnatal outcomes of fetuses with TGA and investigate the integrated prenatal and postnatal management for TGA neonates.
Methods
Children born with prenatal diagnosis of TGA in Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital from January 2009 to December 2022 were included in the study. The prenatal ultrasound data and neonatal records were reviewed to assess the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate logistic and Cox analyses were used to analyze the correlation between risk factors and prognosis of TGA patients.
Results
134 fetuses with prenatal diagnosis of TGA were included in this study and assessed at a median follow-up of 1.57 years [interquartile range (IQR) 0.07–4.28]. The population originated from 40 cities in 10 provinces in China, with integrated antenatal and postnatal management rate reaching 94.0% (126/134) and a high accuracy rate (99.3%) of prenatal primary diagnosis. There were 3 (2.2%) postnatal deaths, 118 (88.1%) patients undergoing Arterial switch operation (ASO), 3 (2.2%) undergoing Restelli operations and 5 (3.7%) doing stage operations. Of 118 patients receiving ASO, the major morbidity occurred in 64 patients, with gestational ages at birth (OR = 0.953, 95% CI 0.910–0.991; P = 0.025) and cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR = 1.010, 95% CI 1.000-1.030; P = 0.038) as independent risk factors. 26.3 percent (n = 31) experienced right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO) after surgery. Independent risk factors was aortic cross-clamping time (HR = 1.030, 95% CI 1.000-1.050; P = 0.017).
Conclusion
Premature infants is significantly associated with increased morbidity. Integrated prenatal and postnatal management is recommended for those with prenatal diagnosis of TGA.
Two promising candidates for paratransgenesis, Elizabethkingia and Asaia, increase in both sexes of Anopheles gambiae s.l mosquitoes after feeding
Authors: Egyirifa Richardson K. , Akorli Jewelna
Published: December 2023

Background
The discovery of high prevalence of Microsporidia MB in both sexes of Anopheles has informed the need to also include male mosquitoes in the study of mosquito-associated microbiome which had mainly been female-focused. In this study, the microbiota of male and female Anopheles gambiae s.l were compared to identify similarity or otherwise of bacterial composition between the two sexes.
Methods
Late larval instars of Anopheles mosquitoes were collected from the field and raised to adults. Equal numbers of males and females of 1-day-old non-sugar-fed, 4–5-day old sugar-fed and post blood-fed females were randomly selected for whole body analyses of bacteria 16S rRNA.
Results
Results reveal that male and female mosquitoes generally share similar microbiota except when females are blood fed. Compared to newly emerged unfed mosquitoes, having sugar and/or blood meal increased dissimilarity in microbial diversity in both males and females with the variation being greater among females (39% P = 0.01) than in males (29% P = 0.03). Elizabethkingia meningoseptica and Asaia siamensis were highly abundant bacteria species (> 0.01 average relative abundance) that were common significant discriminants between groups based on their feeding status. E. meningoseptica was shown to be the only common differentially significant bacteria in male and female mosquitoes that had fed compared to their unfed counterparts (LDA score > 4.0, P < 0.05). Its relative abundance did not change in blood fed females while A. siamensis reduced. In males, however, A. siamensis did not differ significantly post sugar meal.
Conclusions
Our results indicate the opportunities for stable infection in mosquitoes should these promising species be used in bacteria-mediated disease control. Further studies are recommended for clearer understanding of multiple strain tissue tropism for selecting most appropriate and effective transmission blocking strategies.
Predictive Modeling of Land Use and Land Cover Changes Using Q-GIS to Improve Geospatial Decision-Making and Sustainable Strategies
Authors: Dipto Abir Mahmud , Rasel H. M. , Hossain ABM Shafkat , Hossain Iqbal , Saki Saleh Ahmad , Ahad S. M. Abdullah Al
Published: December 2023

A systematic approach to comprehending both physical and non-physical interactions between ecosystems in nature with the aim of ecological sustainability is called LULC alteration analysis. An extensive overview of the development potential for both present and future is provided through an investigation of spatially shifting behaviors of LULC and modeling of prospective eventualities. With a 20-year approximation from 2000 to 2020, we used substantial multi-temporal data collected via satellite to explore opportunities for evolution from one spatiotemporal transition state to a subsequent and prospective LULC model. In the MOLUSCE plugin of Q-GIS, uncorrelated parameters (DEM, gradient, and location concerning roadways) have been combined with an incorporated CA-ANN technique. Throughout previous three decades, impervious surface area increased from 12.48% to 28.91%, while water levels increased from 1.43% to 1.39%, demonstrating that physical and social driving forces had significant influence on landscape pattern. Urbanization and development are reflected from rising water table and shrinking impermeable surface. Land use shifts or climatic variability may result decline in water levels, whereas the rise in impermeable surfaces points in the direction of proliferation of metropolitan region. The quantity of dry land decreased from 48.28% to 43.11%, the verdant area was 27.34% to 13.77%, and woodland shrank from 22.70% to 12.64%. The estimates from 2030 to 2040 further endorse an increasing shift toward impermeable terrain at the expense of substantial forests and natural habitats. For successful land management, urban planning, and sustainable development, LULC trends must be precisely predicted. In-depth reviews and analyses of predictive modeling approaches utilized for LULC prediction are provided in the study. This study investigates frequently used data sources and preprocessing methods, looks at difficulties with LULC prediction, and offers critical assessment of modeling strategies. The report also outlines future research priorities and explores possible uses of the LULC prediction model uses.
Recommendations to improve use and dissemination of patient versions of oncological clinical practice guidelines in Germany: results of a multi-stakeholder workshop
Authors: Könsgen Nadja , Hauprich Julia , Wahlen Sarah , Hellbrecht Irma , Becker Monika , Bühn Stefanie , Meyer Nora , Blödt Susanne , Carl Günther , Follmann Markus , Frenz Stefanie , Langer Thomas , Nothacker Monika , Schaefer Corinna , Pieper Dawid , Breuing Jessica
Published: December 2023

Background:
Oncological patients have high information needs that are often unmet. Patient versions of oncological clinical practice guidelines (PVG) translate clinical practice guidelines into laypersons’ language and might help to address patients’ information needs. Currently, 30 oncological PVG have been published in Germany and more are being developed. Following a large multi-phase project on oncological PVGs in Germany, recommendations to improve use and dissemination of PVG were adopted in a multi-stakeholder workshop.
Methods:
Organisations representing users of PVGs (patients, medical personnel, and multipliers), creators, initiators/funding organisations of PVGs, and organisations with methodological expertise in the development of clinical practice guidelines or in patient health information were invited to participate. The workshop included a World Café for discussion of pre-selected recommendations and structured consensus procedure for of all recommendations. Recommendations with agreement of > 75% were approved, and in case of ≤ 75% agreement, recommendations were rejected.
Results:
The workshop took place on 24th April 2023 in Cologne, Germany. Overall, 23 people from 24 organisations participated in the discussion. Of 35 suggested recommendations 28 recommendations reached consensus and were approved. The recommendations referre to the topics dissemination (N = 13), design and format (N = 7), (digital) links (N = 5), digitalisation (N = 4), up-to-dateness (N = 3), and use of the PVG in collaboration between healthcare providers and patients (N = 3).
Conclusion:
The practical recommendations consider various perspectives and can help to improve use and dissemination of oncological PVG in Germany. The inclusion of different stakeholders could facilitate the transfer of the results into practice.
Bile Acid Metabolism Analysis Insight into the Vascular Endothelial Injury in High Salt-Induced Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Zeng Baihan , Peng Xile , Chen Yixiao , Chen Li , Xia Yanglin , Xia Lina
Published: December 2023

Background: High salt diet has become one of the leading risk factors for cardiovascular diseases worldwide. There is already research to prove that excessive salt intake can cause hypertension and endothelial damage. However, the potential mechanism requires further exploration. In the present study, we aimed to reveal the bile acid metabolism in high-salt-induced vascular endothelial injury in rats.
Methods: A high-salt diet (HSD) induced rats model was established by evaluating the levels of blood pressure and vascular endothelial injury factors. Bile acid metabolism analysis was performed to identify differential bile acids between the normal group and the HSD group. Correlation analysis further detected the relevance between vascular endothelial injury factors and bile acids.
Results: The results reflected that HSD can cause disorders in bile acid metabolism. 10 potential bile acids in plasma were found to be involved in the effects of high salt on vascular endothelium. Further correlation analysis indicated that endothelin-1 (ET-1) has a negative correlation with glycocholic acid, and nitric oxide (NO) has a positive correlation with ursocholic acid.
Conclusion: This study identified which bile acids associated with high-salt-induced vascular endothelial injury, and provided a new idea for the prevention and treatment of high salt-induced cardiovascular diseases.
Molecular epidemiology and multilocus genotyping of Giardia duodenalis in individuals attending major public hospitals in Shiraz, southwestern Iran: A public health concern
Authors: Asghari Ali , Mahdavi Farzad , Shamsi Laya , Mohammadi-Ghalehbin Behnam , Shahabi Saeed , Asgari Qasem , Motazedian Mohammad Hossein , Sadrebazzaz Alireza
Published: December 2023

Giardia duodenalis is one of the most common causes of waterborne disease worldwide, and is often associated with outbreaks of diarrhea in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis assemblages in individuals attending major public hospitals in Shiraz, southwestern Iran. From August 2022 to October 2023, a total of 614 stool samples from individuals were collected and initially examined for G. duodenalis cysts using parasitological techniques, sucrose flotation, and microscopy. Microscopy-positive samples were validated by SSU-PCR amplification of the parasite DNA. A multilocus genotyping (MLG) scheme, which focused on the triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) and the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) genes, was employed for genotyping purposes. G. duodenalis cysts were found in 7.5% (46/614) and 8.5% (52/614) of samples through microscopy and SSU-PCR, respectively. Successful amplification and sequencing results were obtained for 77.3% (17/22) and 45.5% (10/22) of the infected samples at the tpi and gdh loci, respectively. MLG data for the two loci were available for only five samples. Out of the 22 samples genotyped at any loci, 54.5% (12/22) were identified as assemblage A, while 45.5% (10/22) were identified as assemblage B. AII was the most predominant sub-assemblage identified [54.5% (12/22)], followed by BIII [27% (6/22)], discordant BIII/BIV [13.6% (3/22)], and BIV [4.5% (1/22)]. This study found no assemblages suitable for animal hosts (e.g., C-F), indicating that the transmission of human giardiasis in Shiraz is mainly anthroponotic. Further molecular-based analyses are necessary to confirm and expand upon these findings.
Association between daily activities and cognitive impairment among elderly adults with depression: A nomogram prediction model
Authors: Huang Lifeng , Li Ping
Published: December 2023

Objective: We aim to use the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) to develop and validate a targeted model for predicting the risk of cognitive impairment in elderly adults with depression.
Methods: 3658 and 1569 patients from CLHLS were enrolled in the training and validation cohort, respectively. Cognitive function was tested by the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Forward stepwise multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for cognitive impairment in elderly adults with depression, and a visible nomogram was conducted. The evaluation of nomogram’s performance was measured by the area under curve (AUC), calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA).
Results: In the final prediction model for cognitive impairment risk, seven essential factors were selected: age, education, frequency of reading newspaper, frequency of watching TV, ability to shop independently, ability to dress independently, and ability to cook. The model performed well, with AUCs of 0.857 and 0.831 in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. Based on the above-mentioned analytical results, a nomogram was created. The calibration curve indicated that the nomogram was well-calibrated. The DCA demonstrated the nomogram's clinical utility.
Conclusion: A model for predicting the risk of cognitive impairment in elderly adults with depression was successfully developed.
Exploring Implementing Questioning the Author in Teaching Reading Texts in EFL Classes
Authors: Alzahrani Mohammed
Published: December 2023

Reading plays an important role in acquiring English for EFL learners. Teaching reading provides opportunities to acquire knowledge of the language, as well as helping learners to interact with the culture and values of the writers. Numerous recent educational reforms in the Saudi society increasingly emphasise the enhancement of learning outcomes in public schools, including the teaching of English. Hence, it is necessary to examine whether the current reading English curriculum in secondary public schools is appropriate for students. One of the perennial problems in this regard is that the reading texts in the English curriculum do not arouse the interest of students. Reading passages in the Saudi English curriculum are predominantly short, unrepresentative of students’ lives and with poor opportunities for critical analysis, which leads to denying learners enjoyment of the literature. Although EFL teachers seem to be enthusiastic about teaching reading and are willing to include enrichment sources in teaching reading, they struggle with the competing demands of completing textbooks on time, as well as poorly resourced libraries in schools. The findings of this study demonstrate that teachers are not able to provide students with hard-copy reading books, or to persuade students to read extra sources, not included in their textbooks. Importantly, English teachers expressed an interest in contributing to enhancing reading contents and teaching strategies for reading in EFL classes. The study findings reveal that the teachers were optimistic about using the QtA in their classrooms, because it contributed to fostering a more positive attitude to reading among their students.
Comprehensive Analysis Revealed P4Hs as New Biomarkers for Prognosis and Immunotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Zhou Huan , Lei Yulin , Luo Jing , Wang Jianmei , Peng Lin , Mou Kelin , Xiang Li , Luo Yuhao
Published: December 2023

Prolyl 4-hydroxylases (P4Hs) are a family of key modifying enzymes in collagen synthesis. Notably, P4Hs have been confirmed to be closely associated with the occurrence and development of tumors. However, the P4Hs expression in Head and Neck Cancer (HNSC), as well as its relationship with prognosis and tumor immunity infiltration has not yet been analyzed. In this article, we investigated the transcriptional expression, survival data and immune infiltration of P4Hs in patients with HNSC from multiple databases. Intriguingly, we found that P4H1-3 expression was significantly higher in head and neck tumor tissues than in normal tissues. Moreover, P4HA1 and P4HA2 were associated with tumor stage, patient prognosis, and immune cell infiltration. P4HA3 was related to patient prognosis, and immune cell infiltration. Correlation experiments have also confirmed that P4HA1 can be a prognosis biomarker and promote the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. These findings suggest that P4HA1-3 may be a novel biomarker for the prognosis and immunotherapy of head and neck cancer, which will be beneficial in providing new therapies for patients with head and neck tumors and thereby improving patient outcomes.
Medicinal chemistry lens on patent data in SureChEMBL
Authors: Gadiya Yojana , Shetty Simran , Hofmann-Apitius Martin , Gribbon Philip , Zaliani Andrea
Published: December 2023

In the pharmaceutical industry, the patent protection of drugs and medicines is accorded particular importance because of the high costs of research and development (R&D), associated with the considerable risks inherent in the creation of novel drugs. Consequently, patents play a pivotal role in ensuring a suitable return on R&D investments, especially those directed toward clinical trials. The patent corpus has been analyzed by researchers to identify freedom-to-operate spaces for novel drug candidates. Several well-established public patent data repositories have enabled automated methodologies for extracting information on therapeutic agents. In this manuscript, we delve into one such publicly available patent database, SureChEMBL, which catalogues patents related to life sciences. Our exploration begins by evaluating the coverage of compounds within SureChEMBL in comparison to other chemical data resources. Additionally, we pinpoint critical sections of patent documents where detailed chemical annotations can be found. Next, we exhibit the compounds' potential to serve as drug candidates by evaluating their conformity to the Rule of Five (Ro5) and its extension, the beyond Ro5 (bRo5). Furthermore, we examine the development stage (preclinical or clinical) reported for these compounds as documented in public databases like ChEMBL. In summation, our investigation aims to provide an estimate of the relevance of the compounds catalogued within the SureChEMBL database in the context of the drug discovery domain.
3D bioprinted CRC model brings to light the replication necessity of an oncolytic vaccinia virus encoding FCU1 gene to exert an efficient anti-tumoral activity
Authors: Marquette Christophe A. , Petiot Emma , Spindler Anita , Ebel Caroline , Nzepa Mael , Moreau Baptiste , Erbs Philippe , Ballou Jean-Marc , Quemeneur Eric , Zaupa Cécile
Published: December 2023

The oncolytic virus represents a promising therapeutic strategy involving the targeted replication of viruses to eliminate cancer cells, while preserving healthy ones. Despite ongoing clinical trials, this approach encounters significant challenges. This study delves into the interaction between an oncolytic virus and the extracellular matrix (ECM). A three-dimensional colorectal cancer model, enriched with ECM through bioprinting, was subjected to infection by an oncolytic virus derived from the vaccinia virus (oVV). The investigation revealed prolonged expression and sustained oVV production. However, the absence of a significant antitumor effect suggested that the virus's progression towards non-infected tumoral clusters was hindered by the ECM. Effective elimination of tumoral cells was achieved by introducing an oVV expressing FCU1 (an enzyme converting the prodrug 5-FC into the chemotherapeutic compound 5-FU) alongside 5-FC. Notably, this efficacy was absent when using a non-replicative vaccinia virus expressing FCU1. Our findings underscore then the crucial role of oVV proliferation in a complex ECM, facilitating payload expression and generating a bystander effect to eradicate tumors. Additionally, this study emphasizes the utility of 3D bioprinting for assessing ECM impact on oVV and demonstrates how enhancing oVV capabilities allows overcoming these barriers. This showcases the potential of 3D bioprinting technology in designing purpose-fit models for such investigations.
Assembly and analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of a medicinal and economic plant, Santalum album, revealed the existence of a complex branched structure
Authors: Liu Guanghua , Zuo Youwei , Shan Yuanyu , Li Jiaxi , Chen Ying , Gong Xinyi , Liao Xiaomin
Published: December 2023

BackgroundSantalum albumL. is an evergreen tree which is mainly distributes throughout tropical and temperate regions. And it has a great medicinal and economic value. Results In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome (mitochondrial genome) ofS. albumwere assembled and annotated, which could be described by a complex branched structure consisting of three contigs. The lengths of these three contigs are 165,122 bp, 93,430 bp and 92,491 bp. We annotated 34 genes coding for proteins (PCGs), 26 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. The analysis of repeated elements shows that there are 89 SSRs and 242 pairs of dispersed repeats inS. albummitochondrial genome. Also we found 20 MTPTs among the chloroplast and mitochondria. The 20 MTPTs sequences span a combined length of 22,353 bp, making up 15.52% of the plastome, 6.37% of the mitochondrial genome. Additionally, by using the Deepred-mt tool, we found 628 RNA editing sites in 34 PCGs. Moreover, significant genomic rearrangement is observed betweenS. albumand its associated mitochondrial genomes. Finally, based on mitochondrial genome PCGs, we deduced the phylogenetic ties betweenS. albumand other angiosperms. Conclusions We reported the mitochondrial genome from Santalales for the first time, which provides a crucial genetic resource for our study of the evolution of mitochondrial genome.
Preparation of High Discharge Specific Capacity Zinc Ion Battery Cathode Materials by Regulating VO 2 with Rare Earth Ions
Authors: Chai Dianhong , Liu Juan , Zhao Xiaoyu , Li Haozhen , Xiao Pengbo , Yuan Qionghua , Li Xiaocheng C.
Published: December 2023

Vanadium oxides, as one of the cathode materials of great interest for aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs), suffer from the disadvantages of low electrical conductivity, easy structural collapse, and poor cycling ability, so in this paper, the strategy of combining vanadium oxides with rare earth elements is used to improve their electrochemical properties. In this paper, a one-step hydrothermal method is proposed to prepare Ce-VO2 cathode material and use it as the cathode material for aqueous zinc ion batteries.The spherical morphology of Ce-VO2 has the advantages of large lattice spacing, structural stability, many active sites, and high specific discharge capacity.As the cathode material for aqueous zinc ion batteries, Ce-VO2 can discharge a high specific discharge capacity of 388 mAh g− 1 at 0.1 A g− 1. The electrode still has a specific capacity of 157 mAh g− 1 after 1000 cycles at 1 A g− 1. This work confirms that rare earth elements can be applied in the field of aqueous zinc ion batteries and provides new ideas for designing more advanced electrode materials.
Role of the Sirt6/Hmgb1 pathway in neuroinflammation of Sleep deprivation-induced depressed mice
Authors: Cao Dandan , Wei Dongyun , Wang Yuting , Yan Minhao , Su Shijie , Pan Huashan , Wang Qi
Published: December 2023

Many depressed patients exhibit sleep disorders, which in turn are a driver of the onset of depression. There is substantial evidence that neuroinflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology and treatment of depression. Here, we investigated the mechanisms by which sleep deprivation (SD) induced anxiety-depressive-like behaviors in mice and the role of neuroinflammation in it. Adult male C57BL/6J mice were selected for the construction of a depression model by SD instrumentation. Five behavioral tests were used to evaluate the anxiety and depressive-like behaviors of the mice. H＆E staining and Nissl staining were utilized to detect cellular morphology and neuronal changes. Real-time quantitative fluorescence PCR (RT-qPCR) was carried out to regulate the mRNA levels of the clock gene, Silent information regulators 6 (Sirt6), High mobility group box-1 (Hmgb1), and pro-inflammatory factors. Western blot and immunofluorescence proved that SD increased the levels of clock genes and Sirt6/Hmgb1 pathway proteins. Our research showed that SD can be used as a reliable mouse model of depression. The pathological mechanism may be that SD regulated the Sirt6/Hmgb1 pathway and affected the transcription of clock genes, leading to inflammatory infiltration in the mPFC region of mice.
Structure and dynamics of the RF-amide QRFP receptor GPR103
Authors: Nureki Osamu , Iwama Alka , Akasaka  Hiroaki , Sano Fumiya , Oshima Hidetaka , Shihoya Wataru
Published: December 2023

Pyroglutamylated RF amide peptide (QRFP) is a type of peptide hormone with a C-terminal RF-amide motif. QRFP selectively activates class-A categorized GPCR, GPR103 to exert various physiological functions such as energy metabolism and appetite regulation. Here, we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the QRFP-GPR103-Gq complex at 3.3 Å resolution. Unlike class-A GPCR, QRFP adopts an extended structure baring no secondary structure, with its N-terminal and C-terminal sides recognized by extracellular and transmembrane domains, respectively, of GPR103. The C-terminal heptapeptide of QRFP penetrates into the orthosteric pocket to act in receptor activation. Particularly, the residues that recognize the RF-amide are highly conserved in the RF-amide receptors. Notably, the unique N-terminal helix-loop-helix of the receptor traps the N-terminal side of QRFP with the pendulum-like motion to guide QRFP into the ligand-binding pocket. This movement, reminiscent of class B1 GPCRs except for orientation and structure of the ligand, is critical for the high affinity binding and receptor specificity of QRFP. Structural comparisons with closely related receptors, including RY-amide peptide-recognizing GPCRs, revealed conserved and diversified peptide recognition mechanisms, providing profound insights into the biological significance of RF-amide peptides. This study not only advances our understanding of GPCR-ligand interactions, but also paves the way for the development of novel therapeutics targeting metabolic and appetite disorders and emergency medical care.
Optimization of Glow Discharge Cleaning for Enhanced Plasma Performance in ITER: A Study on Discharge Similarity and Electrode Configuration
Authors: Zhang Song , Duan Zemin , Miao Pengcheng , Si Xiaoliang
Published: December 2023

Glow discharge is characterized by its uniform cleaning ability and simplicity in system structure, and has been a standard method for wall conditioning and treatment in Tokamak devices, particularly during the maintenance phase and following atmospheric exposure of the vacuum chamber. This study presents a two-dimensional fluid model of glow discharge that incorporates temperature parameters. The model simulates discharge characteristics under two scaled-down scenarios, revealing that during the sub-glow and normal glow discharge stages, both systems exhibit similar distributions of electron and positive ion densities, satisfying the criteria for discharge similarity. Furthermore, the temperature differences induced by the discharge are found to significantly influence the spatially reduced electric fields. This variation in reduced field strength leads to distinct distributions of charged particles, which is identified as the primary cause for the deviation from similarity during abnormal glow discharge phases.
Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Toxoplasma Gondii Infection in Cattle, Sheep and Goats in Katsina, State Nigeria
Authors: Orpin James Bemshima , Oyeyi Tinuke , Abdullahi Nura
Published: December 2023

Toxoplasmosis is still an important health problem in developing nations including Nigeria. Studies were taken in order to assess the Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in Cattle, Sheep and goats in Katsina State in order to provide valuable baseline information that will facilitate the design of an effective control strategy. A farmhouse based, cross-sectional seroprevalence study was carried out to establish the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in Cattle, Sheep and goats in Katsina State from August 2019 to July 2020 based on animal’ owners willingness. Laboratory techniques employed were separation of sera by centrifugation at 3200 RPM for 10 minutes and then the use of Rapid Diagnostic Toxo IgG Test kits for the detection of anti T. gondii antibodies IgG. Questionnaire survey was done in farmhouses visited to determine risk factors associated with T. gondii infection. Data was analysed using chi square, odds ratio, risk ratio and bivariate analysis for the risk factors. The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in the domestic ruminants was found to be 17.57%. Strong associations were found amongst the sex, age, drinking habits of the animals, presence of cats on farms and house types (P˂0.05). The prevalence of female animals (17.97%) to the males (16.49%) was significant (P˂0.05) as well as the younger ruminants of less than one-year-old (37.37%) recording higher infection than the older ones (7.45%) (P˂0.05). Toxoplasmosis seropositivity was higher in the ruminants in the wet season than in the dry season, which showed significant difference (P˂0.05) in infection between the seasons. Based on the regions/zones, there was significant difference (P˂0.05) for seropositivity in the animals. From this result, it can be concluded that there was prevalence of T. gondii infection in the domestic ruminants in all the farmhouses visited, this warns on the public health safety problems. There is therefore the urgent need for the implementation of biosecurity measures, public awareness campaign for workers at farmhouses in Katsina State.
Smart stimulus-responsive mesoporous silicon combined with chemotherapy and photothermal therapy reverses tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment to enhances antitumor immunity
Authors: Chen Shuai , Huang Rui , Shen Feiyang , Wu Yijia , Lin Yao , Yang Xiaoyu , Shen Jianfeng , Fang Yan
Published: December 2023

Due to the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment and potential systemic toxicity, chemotherapy often fails to trigger satisfactory anti-tumor results, so how to activate anti-tumor immunity to improve the therapeutic effect remains a challenging problem. Photothermal therapy (PTT) is an efficient method of inducing the tumor neoantigen release in situ, which offers potential for application in cancer immunotherapy. In this study, we constructed mesoporous silicon nanoparticles (MSNs) containing tetrasulfide bonds loaded with the traditional drug doxorubicin (DOX) inside and modified the outer layer with polydopamine (DOX/MSN-4S@PDA) for both in vivo and in vitro anti-tumor studies. Additionally, the mesoporous silicon core contains GSH-sensitive tetrasulfide bonds, which not only enhances the release of DOX but also generates hydrogen sulfide (H2S) which greatly improves the therapeutic effect of DOX. The polydopamine (PDA) in the outer layer provides the nanoparticles with acid sensitivity as well as a mild photothermal effect when exposed to near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. Furthermore, the outermost layer is modified with hyaluronic acid (HA), allowing for targeted delivery to CD44-expressing tumor cells, further improving the accumulation of drugs at the tumor site and reducing toxic side effects. Results of our in vivo studies indicated that DOX/MSN@PDA-HA can reverse the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and improve the anti-tumor effect by triggering powerful immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells. Meanwhile, in vivo results showed that DOX/MSN@PDA-HA can significantly inhibit tumor metastasis to the lungs and liver. In summary, DOX/MSN@PDA-HA exhibits controlled release of therapeutic drugs, excellent biocompatibility, and significant tumor inhibition capabilities through synergistic chemical/photothermal combined therapy.