bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in the immunoglobulin gene repertoires of IgG versus IgA multiple myeloma allude to distinct immunopathogenetic trajectories
Authors: Gkoliou Glykeria , Agathangelidis Andreas , Karakatsoulis Georgos , Lalayanni Chrysavgi , Papalexandri Apostolia , Medina Alejandro , Genuardi Elisa , Chlichlia Katerina , Hatjiharissi Evdoxia , Papaioannou Maria , Terpos Evangelos , Jimenez Cristina , Sakellari Ioanna , Ferrero Simone , Ladetto Marco , Sanz Ramon Garcia , Belessi Chrysoula , Stamatopoulos Kostas
Published: February 2023

The analysis of the immunogenetic background of multiple myeloma (MM) has proven key to understanding disease ontogeny. However, limited information is available regarding the immunoglobulin (IG) gene repertoire in MM cases carrying different heavy chain isotypes. Here, we studied the IG gene repertoire in a series of 523 MM patients, of whom 165 and 358 belonged to the IgA and IgG MM groups, respectively. IGHV3 subgroup genes predominated in both groups. However, at the individual gene level, significant (p<0.05) differences were identified regarding IGHV3-21 (frequent in IgG MM) and IGHV5-51 (frequent in IgA MM). Moreover, biased pairings were identified between certain IGHV genes and IGHD genes in IgA versus IgG MM. Turning to the imprints of somatic hypermutation (SHM), the bulk of rearrangements (IgA: 90.9%, IgG: 87.4%) were heavily mutated [exhibiting an IGHV germline identity (GI) <95%]. SHM topology analysis disclosed distinct patterns in IgA MM versus IgG MM cases expressing B cell receptor IG encoded by the same IGHV gene: the most pronounced examples concerned the IGHV3-23, IGHV3-30 and IGHV3-9 genes. Furthermore, differential SHM targeting was also identified between IgA MM versus IgG MM, particularly in cases utilizing certain IGHV genes, alluding to functional selection. Altogether, our detailed immunogenetic evaluation in the largest to-date series of IgA and IgG MM patients reveals certain distinct features in the IGH gene repertoires and SHM. These findings suggest distinct immune trajectories for IgA versus IgG MM, further underlining the role of external drive in the natural history of MM.
The dilemma of improving rational antibiotic use in pediatric community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Nguyen Phuong T. K. , Robinson Paul D. , Fitzgerald Dominic A. , Marais Ben J.
Published: February 2023

Pneumonia is the number one cause of disease and deaths in children under five years old, outside the neonatal period, with the greatest number of cases reported from resource-limited settings. The etiology is variable, with not much information on the local etiology drug resistance profile in many countries. Recent studies suggest an increasing contribution from respiratory viruses, also in children with severe pneumonia, with an increased relative contribution in settings that have good vaccine coverage against common bacterial pathogens. Respiratory virus circulation was greatly reduced during highly restrictive measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 but rebounded once COVID-19 restrictions were relaxed. We conducted a comprehensive literature review of the disease burden, pathogens, case management and current available prevention of community acquired childhood pneumonia, with a focus on rational antibiotic use, since the treatment of respiratory infections is the leading cause of antibiotic use in children. Consistent application of revised World Health Organisation (WHO) guidance that children presenting with coryzal symptoms or wheeze can be managed without antibiotics in the absence of fever, will help to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use, as will increased availability and use of bedside inflammatory marker tests, such as C–reactive protein (CRP) in children with respiratory symptoms and fever.
Atractylenolide-1 Targets FLT3 to Regulate PI3K/AKT/HIF1-α Pathway to Inhibit Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Valve Interstitial Cells
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Penghua , Zhang Jing , Ma Zhaohui , Tian Xingqin , Liu Yan , Lv Guanghui , Qu Linghang
Published: February 2023

Atractylenolide-1 (AT-1), a natural active ingredient extracted from Atractylodes macrocephala, was reported to have good anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Osteogenic changes induced by the inflammation of valve interstitial cells (VICs) play a role in the development of calcified aortic valve disease (CAVD). This study aimed to investigate the anti-osteogenic effects of AT-1 in human VICs. Human VICs were exposed to osteogenic induction medium (OM) containing AT-1 to analyze cell viability, as well as protein and osteogenic gene expression. Anti-calcification tests were also performed. mRNA transcriptome sequencing was performed to identify differential genes and pathways regulated by AT-1. Western blotting was used to verify the enrichment pathway, protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis was conducted to identify drug targets. Finally, molecular docking and inhibitors are used to verify the drug targets. Treatment of VICs with 20 μM AT-1 resulted in no significant cytotoxicity. The addition of AT-1 to OM prevented the accumulation of calcified nodules, and decreases in the level of (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALP and RUNX2 gene and protein expression were observed. Atractylenolide-1 can target FLT3 protein and inhibit the phosphorylation of FLT3, thereby blocking PI3K/AKT pathway activation, reducing the production of Hypoxia inducible factor(HIF)1-α, and inhibiting the osteogenic differentiation of VICs. These results suggest AT-1 as a potential drug for treating calcified aortic valve disease.
Regional variations in excessive polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate drug use among older adults in Sweden: Trends from 2006 to 2020
Authors: Wastesson Jonas W. , Fritzell Johan , Burström Bo , Johnell Kristina , Fastbom Johan
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Potentially inappropriate drug use (PID) is common among older adults. Cross-sectional data suggest that there are marked regional variations in PID in Sweden. There is, however, a lack of knowledge about how the regional variations have changed over time.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the regional differences in the prevalence of PID in Sweden, 2006–2020.

Methods: In this repeated cross-sectional study, we included all older adults (≥75 years) registered in Sweden, yearly from 2006 to 2020. We used nationwide data from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register linked at the individual level to the Swedish Total Population Register. We selected three indicators of PID according to the Swedish national “Quality indicators for good drug therapy in the elderly”: 1) Excessive polypharmacy (use of ≥10 drugs); 2) Concurrent use of three or more psychotropic drugs; 3) Use of “drugs that should be avoided in older adults unless specific reasons exist.” The prevalence of these indicators was calculated for each of Sweden’s 21 regions, yearly from 2006 to 2020. The annual coefficient of variation (CV) was calculated for each indicator by dividing the standard deviation of the regions by the national average, to measure relative variability.

Results: In the population of about 800,000 older adults per year, the national prevalence of “drugs that should be avoided in older adults,” was reduced by 59% from 2006 to 2020. There was a slight decline in the use of three or more psychotropics, while the prevalence of excessive polypharmacy increased. The CV for excessive polypharmacy was 14% in 2006 and 9% in 2020 compared to 18% and 14% for “use of three or more psychotropics”, and stable at around 10% for ‘drugs that should be avoided in older adults.’

Conclusions: The regional variation in potentially inappropriate drug use decreased or were stable from 2006 to 2020. The regional differences were largest for the use of three or more psychotropics. We found a general tendency that regions with a good performance at the start of the period performed well across the entire period. Future studies should investigate the reasons for regional variation and explore strategies to reduce unwarranted differences.
Development of a microphysiological skin-liver-thyroid Chip3 model and its application to evaluate the effects on thyroid hormones of topically applied cosmetic ingredients under consumer-relevant conditions
Authors: Tao Thi-Phuong , Maschmeyer Ilka , LeCluyse Edward L. , Rogers Eda , Brandmair Katrin , Gerlach Silke , Przibilla Julia , Kern Fredy , Genies Camille , Jacques Carine , Najjar Abdulkarim , Schepky Andreas , Marx Uwe , Kühnl Jochen , Hewitt Nicola J.
Published: February 2023

All cosmetic ingredients registered in Europe must be evaluated for their safety using non-animal methods. Microphysiological systems (MPS) offer a more complex higher tier model to evaluate chemicals. Having established a skin and liver HUMIMIC Chip2 model demonstrating how dosing scenarios impact the kinetics of chemicals, we investigated whether thyroid follicles could be incorporated to evaluate the potential of topically applied chemicals to cause endocrine disruption. This combination of models in the HUMIMIC Chip3 is new; therefore, we describe here how it was optimized using two chemicals known to inhibit thyroid production, daidzein and genistein. The MPS was comprised of Phenion® Full Thickness skin, liver spheroids and thyroid follicles co-cultured in the TissUse HUMIMIC Chip3. Endocrine disruption effects were determined according to changes in thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and 3,3’,5-triiodothyronine (T3). A main part of the Chip3 model optimization was the replacement of freshly isolated thyroid follicles with thyrocyte-derived follicles. These were used in static incubations to demonstrate the inhibition of T4 and T3 production by genistein and daidzein over 4 days. Daidzein exhibited a lower inhibitory activity than genistein and both inhibitory activities were decreased after a 24 h preincubation with liver spheroids, indicating metabolism was via detoxification pathways. The skin-liver-thyroid Chip3 model was used to determine a consumer-relevant exposure to daidzein present in a body lotion based on thyroid effects. A “safe dose” of 0.235 μg/cm2 i.e., 0.047% applied in 0.5 mg/cm2 of body lotion was the highest concentration of daidzein which does not result in changes in T3 and T4 levels. This concentration correlated well with the value considered safe by regulators. In conclusion, the Chip3 model enabled the incorporation of the relevant exposure route (dermal), metabolism in the skin and liver, and the bioactivity endpoint (assessment of hormonal balance i.e., thyroid effects) into a single model. These conditions are closer to those in vivo than 2D cell/tissue assays lacking metabolic function. Importantly, it also allowed the assessment of repeated doses of chemical and a direct comparison of systemic and tissue concentrations with toxicodynamic effects over time, which is more realistic and relevant for safety assessment.
Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule alleviates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice through modulating gut microbiota
Authors: Hu Haibo , Wang Fengchan , Han Ping , Li Peng , Wang Kun , Song Huan , Zhao Guojing , Li Yue , Lu Xuechao , Tao Weihong , Cui Huantian
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule (BFHX) has been used to treat pulmonary fibrosis (PF) in clinic. However, the mechanism of Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule on pulmonary fibrosis remains unclear. Recent studies have shown that the changes in gut microbiota were closely related to the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. Modulating gut microbiota provides new thoughts in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

Methods: In this study,a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis was induced using bleomycin (BLM) and treated with Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule. We firstly evaluated the therapeutic effects of Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule on pulmonary fibrosis model mice. Besides,the anti-inflammatory and anti- oxidative effects of Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule were evaluated. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing was used to observe the changes in gut microbiota in pulmonary fibrosis model mice after Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule treatment.

Results: Our results showed that Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule significantly reduced the collagen deposition in pulmonary fibrosis model mice. Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule treatment also reduced the levels and mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibited the oxidative stress in lung. 16S rRNA sequencing showed that Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule affected the diversity of gut microbiota and the relative abundances of gut microbiota such as Lactobacillus, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and Romboutsia.

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated the therapeutic effects of Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule on pulmonary fibrosis. The mechanisms of Bu-Fei-Huo-Xue capsule on pulmonary fibrosis may be associated with regulating gut microbiota.
The IDI1/SREBP2 axis drives intrahepatic cholestasis and is a treatment target of San-Huang-Cai-Zhu formula identified by sequencing and experiments
Authors: Yan Junbin , Nie Yunmeng , Chen Zheng , Yao Jiaming , Zhang Shuo , Chen Zhiyun
Published: February 2023

San-Huang-Chai-Zhu formula (SHCZF), originates from Da-Huang-Xiao-Shi decoction (DHXSD) for the treatment of jaundice as recorded in the Chinese traditional Chinese medicine book Jin Gui Yao Lue. In the clinic, SHCZF has been used to treat cholestasis-related liver disease by improving intrahepatic cholestasis, but the treatment mechanism has not been elucidated. In this study, 24 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to the normal, acute intrahepatic cholestasis (AIC), SHCZF, and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) groups. In addition, 36 SD rats were divided into dynamic groups, namely, normal 24 h, AIC 24 h, normal 48 h, AIC 48 h, normal 72 h, and AIC 72 h groups. Alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT) was used to induce an AIC rat model. Serum biochemical indices and hepatic pathology were detected. Part of the hepatic tissues was used for sequencing, and others were used for subsequent experiments. Sequencing data combined with bioinformatics analysis were used to screen target genes and identify the mechanisms of SHCZF in treating AIC rats. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting (WB) were used to detect the RNA/Protein expression levels of screened genes. Rats in the dynamic group were used to determine the sequence of cholestasis and liver injury. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the representative bioingredients of SHCZF. Sequencing and bioinformatics analysis suggested that IDI1 and SREBP2 are hub target genes of SHCZF to ameliorate ANTI-induced intrahepatic cholestasis in rats. The treatment mechanism is associated with the regulation of lipoprotein receptor (LDLr) to reduce cholesterol intake and 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR), and 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 1 (HMGCS1) to decrease cholesterol synthesis. Animal experiments showed that SHCZF significantly reduced the expression levels of the above genes and proinflammatory cytokine lipocalin 2 (LCN2), inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), thereby improving intrahepatic cholestasis and inflammation and liver injury.
An updated classification of meditation methods using principles of taxonomy and systematics
Authors: Nash Jonathan D. , Newberg Andrew B.
Published: February 2023

This paper revisits the proposal for the classification of meditation methods which we introduced in our initial 2013 publication, “Toward a Universal Taxonomy and Definition of Meditation”. At that time, we advanced the thesis that meditation methods could be effectively segregated into three orthogonal categories by integrating the taxonomic principle of functional essentialism and the paradigm of Affect and Cognition; and we presented relevant research findings which supported that assertion. This iteration expands upon those theoretical and methodological elements by articulating a more comprehensive Three Tier Classification System which accounts for the full range of meditation methods; and demonstrates how recent neuroscience research continues to validate and support our thesis. This paper also introduces a novel criterion-based protocol for formulating classification systems of meditation methods, and demonstrates how this model can be used to compare and evaluate various other taxonomy proposals that have been published over the past 15 years.
Scholarly literature in HIV-related lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender studies: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Nguyen Tham Thi , Do Anh Linh , Nguyen Long Hoang , Vu Giang Thu , Dam Vu Anh Trong , Latkin Carl A. , Hall Brian J. , Ho Cyrus S. H. , Zhang Melvyn W. B. , Ho Roger C. M.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) people are marginalized and understudied. Analyzing research activity worldwide is vital to better understand their needs in confronting the HIV epidemic. This study aimed to evaluate the global literature to identify the research collaboration, content, and tendency in HIV-related issues among the LGBT populations.

Methods

Peer-reviewed original articles and reviews were achieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Country’s collaborations and co-occurrence of most frequent terms were illustrated by VOSviewer software. The Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) and the linear regression model were utilized to uncover the hidden topics and examine the research trend.

Results

From 1990 to 2019, a total of 13,096 publications were found. Stigma, sexual risk behaviors and HIV testing were the major topics in the LGBT research during the study period. Among 15 topics, topics about HIV/Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) prevalence, Outcomes of HIV/AIDS care and treatment, and Opportunistic infections in HIV-positive LGBT people showed decreasing attention over years, while other topics had a slight to moderate increase.

Discussion

Our study underlined the exponential growth of publications on the LGBT population in HIV research, and suggested the importance of performing regional collaborations in improving research capacity. Moreover, further research should focus on examining the manner to increase the coverage of HIV testing and treatment, as well as implement HIV-interventions with low cost and easy to scale-up.
Motivation to interaction media: The impact of automation trust and self-determination theory on intention to use the new interaction technology in autonomous vehicles
Authors: Xie Yubin , Zhou Ronggang , Chan Alan Hoi Shou , Jin Mingyu , Qu Miao
Published: February 2023

Introduction

This research investigated the effects of three psychological needs (competence, autonomy, and relatedness) of self-determination theory (SDT) and automation trust on the intention of users to employ new interaction technology brought by autonomous vehicles (AVs), especially interaction mode and virtual image.

Method

This study focuses on the discussion from the perspective of psychological motivation theory applied to AV interaction technology. With the use of a structured questionnaire, participants completed self-report measures related to these two interaction technologies; a total of 155 drivers’ responses were analyzed.

Result

The results indicated that users’ intentions were directly predicted by their perceived competence, autonomy, and relatedness of SDT and automation trust, which jointly explained at least 66% of the variance in behavioral intention. In addition to these results, the contribution of predictive components to behavioral intention is influenced by the type of interaction technology. Relatedness and competence significantly impacted the behavioral intention to use the interaction mode but not the virtual image.

Discussion

These findings are essential in that they support the necessity of distinguishing between types of AV interaction technology when predicting users’ intentions to use.
Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for children and adolescents with first-episode and drug-naïve major depressive disorder: A systematic review
Authors: Zheng Wei , Lan Xian-Jun , Qin Zhen-Juan , Yang Xin-Hu , Shi Zhan-Ming
Published: February 2023

Objective

This systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to explore the therapeutic effects and safety of active low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (LF-rTMS) versus sham LF-rTMS in children and adolescent patients with first-episode and drug-naïve (FEDN) major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed, and data were extracted by two independent researchers. The coprimary outcomes were study-defined response and remission.

Results

A systematic search of the literature yielded 442 references, of which 3 RCTs (130 children and adolescents with FEDN MDD, 50.8% male, and mean age range from 14.5 to 17.5 years) met the inclusion criteria. Among the two RCTs (66.7%, 2/3) examining the effects of LF-rTMS on study-defined response and remission and cognitive function, active LF-rTMS was more efficacious than sham LF-rTMS in terms of study-defined response rate and cognitive function (all p < 0.05) but not regarding study-defined remission rate (all p > 0.05). No significant group differences were found with regard to adverse reactions. None of the included RCTs reported the dropout rate.

Conclusion

These findings preliminarily found that LF-rTMS could benefit children and adolescents with FEDN MDD in a relatively safe manner, although further studies are warranted.
SiNPs induce ferroptosis in HUVECs through p38 inhibiting NrF2 pathway
Authors: Jiang Xiaojun , Gao Huiqian , Cao Yunchang , Chen Shuting , Huang Fangfang , Feng Yashi , Zhang Yuqi , Feng Shaolong
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Despite of growing evidence linking silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), one of the global-top-three-produced and -used nanoparticle (NP), to human health risks, there remain many knowledge gaps over the adverse effects of SiNPs exposure on cardiovascular system and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

In this study, the ferroptotic effects of SiNPs (20 nm; 0, 25, 50, and 100 μg/mL) on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the possible molecular mechanism were studied with the corresponding biochemical and molecular biology assays.

Results and discussion

The results showed that at the tested concentrations, SiNPs could decrease HUVEC viability, but the deferoxamine mesylate (an iron ion chelator) might rescue this reduction of cell viability. Also, increased levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species and enhanced mRNA expression of lipid oxidation enzymes (ACSL4 and LPCAT3) with increase in lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde), but decreased ratios of intracellular GSH/total-GSH and mitochondrial membrane potential as well as reduced enzymatic activities of anti-oxidative enzymes (CAT, SOD, and GSH-PX), were found in the SiNPs-treated HUVECs. Meanwhile, increase in p38 protein phosphorylation and decrease in NrF2 protein phosphorylation with reduced mRNA expressions of downstream anti-oxidative enzyme genes (CAT, SOD1, GSH-PX, and GPX4) was identified in the SiNPs-exposed HUVECs. These data indicated that SiNPs exposure might induce ferroptosis in HUVECs via p38 inhibiting NrF2 pathway. Ferroptosis of HUVECs will become a useful biomarker for assessing the cardiovascular health risks of environmental contaminants.
Feature relevance XAI in anomaly detection: Reviewing approaches and challenges
Authors: Tritscher Julian , Krause Anna , Hotho Andreas
Published: February 2023

With complexity of artificial intelligence systems increasing continuously in past years, studies to explain these complex systems have grown in popularity. While much work has focused on explaining artificial intelligence systems in popular domains such as classification and regression, explanations in the area of anomaly detection have only recently received increasing attention from researchers. In particular, explaining singular model decisions of a complex anomaly detector by highlighting which inputs were responsible for a decision, commonly referred to as local post-hoc feature relevance, has lately been studied by several authors. In this paper, we systematically structure these works based on their access to training data and the anomaly detection model, and provide a detailed overview of their operation in the anomaly detection domain. We demonstrate their performance and highlight their limitations in multiple experimental showcases, discussing current challenges and opportunities for future work in feature relevance XAI for anomaly detection.
Exercise training and DNA methylation profile in post-bariatric women: Results from an exploratory study
Authors: Nicoletti Carolina F. , Roschel Hamilton , Merege-Filho Carlos , Lima Alisson P. , Gil Saulo , Pinhel Marcela A. S. , Noronha Natalia Y. , Santo Marco A. , Jacome Amalia , Crujeiras Ana B. , Gualano Bruno , Nonino Carla B.
Published: February 2023

Exercise training and bariatric surgery have been shown to independently modulate DNA methylation profile in clusters of genes related to metabolic and inflammatory pathways. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 6-month exercise training program on DNA methylation profile in women who underwent bariatric surgery. In this exploratory, quasi-experimental study, we analyzed DNA methylation levels by array technology in eleven women who underwent Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and a 6-month, three-times-a-week, supervised exercise training program. Epigenome Wide Association Analysis showed 722 CpG sites with different methylation level equal to or greater than 5% (P < 0.01) after exercise training. Some of these CpGs sites were related to pathophysiological mechanisms of inflammation, specially Th17 cell differentiation (FDR value < 0.05 and P < 0.001). Our data showed epigenetic modification in specific CpG sites related to Th17 cell differentiation pathway in post-bariatric women following a 6-months exercise training program.
Fecal identification markers impact the feline fecal microbiota
Authors: Nealon Nora Jean , Wood Alexandra , Rudinsky Adam J. , Klein Hannah , Salerno Matthew , Parker Valerie J. , Quimby Jessica M. , Howard James , Winston Jenessa A.
Published: February 2023

Fecal diagnostics are a mainstay of feline medicine, and fecal identification markers help to distinguish individuals in a multi-cat environment. However, the impact of identification markers on the fecal microbiota are unknown. Given the increased interest in using microbiota endpoints to inform diagnosis and treatment, the objective of this study was to examine the effects of orally supplemented glitter and crayon shavings on the feline fecal microbiota (amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA gene V4 region). Fecal samples were collected daily from six adult cats that were randomized to receive oral supplementation with either glitter or crayon for two weeks, with a two-week washout before receiving the second marker. No adverse effects in response to marker supplementation were seen for any cat, and both markers were readily identifiable in the feces. Microbiota analysis revealed idiosyncratic responses to fecal markers, where changes in community structure in response to glitter or crayon could not be readily discerned. Given these findings, it is not recommended to administered glitter or crayon shavings as a fecal marker when microbiome endpoints are used, however their clinical use with other diagnostics should still be considered.
Impact of Culture-Positive Preservation Fluid on Early Morbidity and Mortality After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Tran-Dinh Alexy , Tir Imane , Tanaka Sébastien , Atchade Enora , Lortat-Jacob Brice , Jean-Baptiste Sylvain , Zappella Nathalie , Boudinet Sandrine , Castier Yves , Mal Hervé , Mordant Pierre , Ben Abdallah Iannis , Bunel Vincent , Messika Jonathan , Armand-Lefèvre Laurence , Grall Nathalie , Montravers Philippe
Published: February 2023

The prevalence, risk factors and outcomes associated with culture-positive preservation fluid (PF) after lung transplantation (LT) are unknown. From January 2015 to December 2020, the microbiologic analyses of PF used to store the cold ischaemia-placed lung graft(s) of 271 lung transplant patients were retrospectively studied. Culture-positive PF was defined as the growth of any microorganism. Eighty-three (30.6%) patients were transplanted with lung grafts stored in a culture-positive PF. One-third of culture-positive PF were polymicrobial. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were the most frequently isolated microorganisms. No risk factors for culture-positive PF based on donor characteristics were identified. Forty (40/83; 48.2%) patients had postoperative pneumonia on Day 0 and 2 (2/83; 2.4%) patients had pleural empyema with at least one identical bacteria isolated in culture-positive PF. The 30-day survival rate was lower for patients with culture-positive PF compared with patients with culture-negative PF (85.5% vs. 94.7%, p = 0.01). Culture-positive PF has a high prevalence and may decrease lung transplant recipient survival. Further studies are required to confirm these results and improve understanding of the pathogenesis of culture-positive PF and their management.
Rapid Guessing in Low-Stakes Assessments: Finding the Optimal Response Time Threshold with Random Search and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Bulut Okan , Gorgun Guher , Wongvorachan Tarid , Tan Bin
Published: February 2023

Rapid guessing is an aberrant response behavior that commonly occurs in low-stakes assessments with little to no formal consequences for students. Recently, the availability of response time (RT) information in computer-based assessments has motivated researchers to develop various methods to detect rapidly guessed responses systematically. These methods often require researchers to identify an RT threshold subjectively for each item that could distinguish rapid guessing behavior from solution behavior. In this study, we propose a data-driven approach based on random search and genetic algorithm to search for the optimal RT threshold within a predefined search space. We used response data from a low-stakes math assessment administered to over 5000 students in 658 schools across the United States. As we demonstrated how to use our data-driven approach, we also compared its performance with those of the existing threshold-setting methods. The results show that the proposed method could produce viable RT thresholds for detecting rapid guessing in low-stakes assessments. Moreover, compared with the other threshold-setting methods, the proposed method yielded more liberal RT thresholds, flagging a larger number of responses. Implications for practice and directions for future research were discussed.
Tsetlin Machine for Sentiment Analysis and Spam Review Detection in Chinese
Authors: Zhang Xuanyu , Zhou Hao , Yu Ke , Wu Xiaofei , Yazidi Anis
Published: February 2023

In Natural Language Processing (NLP), deep-learning neural networks have superior performance but pose transparency and explainability barriers, due to their black box nature, and, thus, there is lack of trustworthiness. On the other hand, classical machine learning techniques are intuitive and easy to understand but often cannot perform satisfactorily. Fortunately, many research studies have recently indicated that the newly introduced model, Tsetlin Machine (TM), has reliable performance and, at the same time, enjoys human-level interpretability by nature, which is a promising approach to trade off effectiveness and interpretability. However, nearly all of the related works so far have concentrated on the English language, while research on other languages is relatively scarce. So, we propose a novel method, based on the TM model, in which the learning process is transparent and easily-understandable for Chinese NLP tasks. Our model can learn semantic information in the Chinese language by clauses. For evaluation, we conducted experiments in two domains, namely sentiment analysis and spam review detection. The experimental results showed thatm for both domains, our method could provide higher accuracy and a higher F1 score than complex, but non-transparent, deep-learning models, such as BERT and ERINE.
Analysis of Warehouse Value-Added Services Using Pareto as a Quality Tool: A Case Study of Third-Party Logistics Service Provider
Authors: Jum’a Luay , Basheer Muath Esam
Published: February 2023

The study aims to analyse warehouse value-added services (VAS) data for a third-party logistics (3PL) service provider, which leads to identifying service improvements and cost-cutting opportunities in performing VAS for clients using Pareto analysis as a quality tool. Using a case study approach, qualitative and quantitative data were collected from a leading 3PL firm in Belgium. The approach is conducted by applying major steps of Pareto analysis. Two pharmaceutical products were analysed according to medical general classification, namely narcotic analgesics (NA) and ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants (OAD). The results showed that the Pareto principle is proven in the NA—ticketing case, and five activities consumed 83.3 percent of the total time of VAS operations. Furthermore, in the OAD—display case, the Pareto principle is proven and six activities were validated as they accounted for 81.26 percent of the total time of primary VAS operations. The study recommended a solution to each of the four causes of delay, including lack of training/best practices, inefficient space utilization, lack of automation, and lack of cohesiveness and planning. Despite the recognized importance of avoiding warehouse operation inefficiencies, the literature lacks studies applied to practice, and few contributions exist regarding analysing 3PL service providers’ warehousing VAS operations data. This study identified all VAS activities for temperature-controlled pharmaceutical products. Moreover, the study proposes a warehouse operations improvement framework for non-automated 3PL warehouses and guides managers through Pareto analysis to cut costs and improve service level.
Identification of Constructive Species and Degraded Plant Species in the Temperate Typical Grassland of Inner Mongolia Based on Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Liu Haining , Wang Hong , Li Xiaobing , Qu Tengfei , Zhang Yao , Lu Yuting , Yang Yalei , Liu Jiahao , Zhao Xili , Su Jingru , Luo Dingsheng
Published: February 2023

In recent years, grassland degradation has become a global ecological problem. The identification of degraded grassland species is of great significance for monitoring grassland ecological environments and accelerating grassland ecological restoration. In this study, a ground spectral measurement experiment of typical grass species in the typical temperate grassland of Inner Mongolia was performed. An SVC XHR-1024i spectrometer was used to obtain field measurements of the spectra of grass species in the typical grassland areas of the study region from 6–29 July 2021. The parametric characteristics of the grass species’ spectral data were extracted and analyzed. Then, the spectral characteristic parameters + vegetation index, first-order derivative (FD) and continuum removal (CR) datasets were constructed by using principal component analysis (PCA). Finally, the RF, SVM, BP, CNN and the improved CNN model were established to identify Stipa grandis (SG), Cleistogenes squarrosa (CS), Caragana microphylla Lam. (CL), Leymus chinensis (LC), Artemisia frigida (AF), Allium ramosum L. (AL) and Artemisia capillaris Thunb. (AT). This study aims to determine a high-precision identification method based on the measured spectrum and to lay a foundation for related research. The obtained research results show that in the identification results based on ground-measured spectral data, the overall accuracy of the RF model and SVM model identification for different input datasets is low, but the identification accuracies of the SVM model for AF and AL are more than 85%. The recognition result of the CNN model is generally worse than that of the BP neural network model, but its recognition accuracy for AL is higher, while the recognition effect of the BP neural network model for CL is better. The overall accuracy and average accuracy of the improved CNN model are all the highest, and the recognition accuracy of AF and CL is stable above 98%, but the recognition accuracy of CS needs to be improved. The improved CNN model in this study shows a relatively significant grass species recognition performance and has certain recognition advantages. The identification of degraded grassland species can provide important scientific references for the realization of normal functions of grassland ecosystems, the maintenance of grassland biodiversity richness, and the management and planning of grassland production and life.
EU Chemical Plant Protection Products in 2023: Current State and Perspectives
Authors: Marchand Patrice A.
Published: February 2023

Agrochemicals are synthetic or hemi-synthetic crop protection substances which are supervised by the EU Regulation EC 1107/2009, which give rise to plant protection products (PPP) with market authorizations. Most of these active substances of chemical origin were transferred from the previous Annex I of Directive 91/414/EEC to Part A of Regulation EU 540/2011, with newly approved active substances mainly being listed in Part B or E, while renewed substances were moved from Part A to Part B or E. In this study, approved agrochemicals from the early part of 2023 are organized into categories, families, functions, usages, treated crop categories, regulatory characteristics, and maximum residue limits (MRLs). Perspectives regarding their evolution are also described together with pending approvals.
Growth Response of Wheat and Maize to Different Nitrogen Supply Forms under the Enrichment of Atmospheric CO2 Concentrations
Authors: Dong Libing , Li Yingchun , Li Ping , Liu Ying , Ma Fen , Hao Xingyu , Guo Liping
Published: February 2023

Elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations (eCO2) has become the main feature and cause of global change that could affect crop growth in many aspects, including physiological processes and morphological development in plants and nutrient cycling and nutrient uptake from the soil. Studying the responses of crop growth to different nitrogen (N) supply forms under elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations can guide nutrient management strategies for agricultural production under future climate change scenarios. Few studies addressed the effect of eCO2 on N uptake and morphological development for plants. This study was conducted in the CO2-controlled light incubators based on the sand-pot incubation using wheat and maize as experimental plants. Six treatments were set with two different environmental CO2 concentrations (aCO2, 390 µmol mol−1; eCO2, 690 µmol mol−1) and three different N supply forms, including ammonium−N, nitrate−N and ammonium-nitrate with 1:1 ratio. The following results were obtained: (i) Wheat and maize seedlings, as nitrate-preferring crops, grew better under mixed N forms than under single N forms. For the single N supply treatment, seedlings with nitrate−N supply showed better growth than with ammonium. (ii) For wheat plants, seedlings with a single ammonium−N supply showed slender height and fewer tillers; seedlings with a single nitrate−N supply were characterized by slightly shorter plant height, more tillers, and higher aboveground biomass. (iii) Compared to the aCO2 group, wheat seedlings with the ammonium−N supply showed an increased maximum root length and a decreased carbon concentration in root exudates; wheat seedlings with a single nitrate−N supply under eCO2 showed a significant increase in biomass and a decreased carbon concentration in root exudates; wheat seedlings with a mixed N supply under eCO2 explored a significant increase in carbon concentration in root exudate and a relatively lower N concentration. (iv) For maize plants, seedlings with either single ammonium−N or nitrate−N supply did not show significant differences in most growing indices. Maize seedlings with a mixed N supply exhibited an increase in aboveground biomass and N concentration in root exudates compared to those with a single N supply. (v) Compared with the aCO2 group, maize seedlings with mixed N supply under eCO2 conditions exhibited significant increases in plant height, aboveground biomass, and N concentration in root exudates. Single ammonium−N supply was toxic to wheat and maize plants under eCO2 conditions. We recommend raising the ratio of ammonium-to-nitrate under mixed N supply to improve the coordination of carbon and N metabolism for efficient crop growth under climatic change conditions of elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration.
Females Are More Aggressive Than Males towards Same- and Opposite-Sex Intruders in the Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus)
Authors: Boiten Gust , van Iersel Robin , Pinxten Rianne , Eens Marcel
Published: February 2023

During the breeding season, aggression is expressed to gain access to resources such as territories and mates and protect offspring. Female aggressiveness has received much less attention than male aggressiveness, and few studies have examined female and male aggressiveness towards intruders of both sexes in the same species. We compared female and male aggressiveness towards same- and opposite-sex intruders during the egg-laying period in blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus) using simulated territorial intrusions. For each sex, we examined the occurrence of different behavioural responses during agonistic encounters, and compared the intensity and individual consistency of intra- and inter-sexual aggression using same- and opposite-sex taxidermy mounts. Our results show that females are the more aggressive sex. Both sexes showed similar behaviours during simulated intrusions, although females were never observed singing and males never entered the nest box. In females, aggression was predominantly independent of the sex of the intruder, while males sang more from a distance during male–male encounters. The relative levels of aggression (pecking and perching on the mounts) during intra- and intersexual conflicts were consistent for females, but not for males. Females might be under stronger selection for aggressive phenotypes due to nest-hole competition and larger reproductive investments.
Detection and Identification of Mycoplasmopsis agassizii in Captive Tortoises with Different Clinical Signs in Italy
Authors: Galosi Livio , Ridolfi Nicola , Fellini Cristina , Pelizzone Igor , Cusaro Stefano , Marchetti Gianluca , Canonico Matteo , Ghelfi Elena , Di Girolamo Nicola , Preziuso Silvia
Published: February 2023

Mycoplasmopsis agassizii causes the Upper Respiratory Tract Disease (URTD) in tortoises. The severity of the disease usually ranges from mild to severe respiratory signs. Animals can recover, die, or become asymptomatic carriers and are source of infection for other tortoises. This study describes (i) the clinical history and the results obtained in ten years of diagnostic PCR activity for detecting M. agassizii in different species of captive tortoises in Italy, and (ii) the phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of M. agassizii. A total of 26.0% out of 169 samples resulted positive by PCR and 32 out of 75 (42.7%) animals with symptoms were positive. Sequences ob-tained from the PCR products were conserved, differed from the sequence of the M. agassizii type strain PS6, and were identical to many M. agassizii sequences deposited in databases. In particular, the sequences were identical or very similar to sequences obtained previously from tortoises in It-aly. Since samples collected from different anatomical sites resulted positive, it is suggested that pools of conjunctival, nasal and oral swabs are tested for diagnostic purpose in both symptomatic and asymptomatic animals.
A Retrospective Study to Compare the Incidence of Hyponatremia after Administration between Linezolid and Tedizolid
Authors: Shibata Yuichi , Hagihara Mao , Asai Nobuhiro , Shiota Arufumi , Hirai Jun , Mori Nobuaki , Mikamo Hiroshige
Published: February 2023

Linezolid (LZD) and Tedizolid (TZD) are oxazolidinone antibiotic for meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Severe hyponatremia after LZD administration have been reported. Severe hyponatremia cause seizures, unconsciousness, and even death. Therefore, we conducted a study to assess the change of serum sodium level after LZD and TZD therapy. We enrolled 67 patients treated with LZD and 28 treated with TZD. We monitored the serum sodium level from the administration to 14 days after administration of oxazolidinone drug. Hyponatremia was defined a sodiuln level ≤134 mmol/L after the initiation of oxazolidinone drug. The frequency of hyponatremia in the LZD group was significantly higher than that in the TZD group (39.7% vs. 11.1%, p < 0.05). The rate of patients administered by injection was significantly higher than in the LZD group than in the TZD group (52.9% vs. 14.8%, p < 0.01). Multiple logistic regression analyses identified the albumin level before the oxazolidinone drug therapy as the independent variables associated with the development of hyponatremia. We revealed that TZD is safer than LZD in terms of hyponatremia. Therefore, cases that LZD is administered by injection should be used more carefully with hyponatremia in patients with low albumin level.
Methionine Sulfoxide Reductases Suppress the Formation of the [PSI+] Prion and Protein Aggregation in Yeast
Authors: Schepers Jana , Carter Zorana , Kritsiligkou Paraskevi , Grant Chris M.
Published: February 2023

Prions are self-propagating, misfolded forms of proteins associated with various neurodegenerative diseases in mammals and heritable traits in yeast. How prions form spontaneously into infectious amyloid-like structures without underlying genetic changes is poorly understood. Previous studies have suggested that methionine oxidation may underlie the switch from a soluble protein to the prion form. In this current study, we have examined the role of methionine sulfoxide reductases (MXRs) in protecting against de novo formation of the yeast [PSI+] prion, which is the amyloid form of the Sup35 translation termination factor. We show that [PSI+] formation is increased during normal and oxidative stress conditions in mutants lacking either one of the yeast MXRs (Mxr1, Mxr2), which protect against methionine oxidation by reducing the two epimers of methionine-S-sulfoxide. We have identified a methionine residue (Met124) in Sup35 that is important for prion formation, confirming that direct Sup35 oxidation causes [PSI+] prion formation. [PSI+] formation was less pronounced in mutants simultaneously lacking both MXR isoenzymes, and we show that the morphology and biophysical properties of protein aggregates are altered in this mutant. Taken together, our data indicate that methionine oxidation triggers spontaneous [PSI+] prion formation, which can be alleviated by methionine sulfoxide reductases.