bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Individual-Based Model of the Red Alga Agarophyton chilense Unravels the Complex Demography of Its Intertidal Stands
Authors: Vieira Vasco M. N. C. S. , Engelen Aschwin H. , Huanel Oscar R. , Guillemin Marie-Laure
Published: February 2022

Algal demographic models have been developed mainly to study their life cycle evolution or optimize their commercial exploitation. Most commonly, structured-aggregated population models simulate the main life cycle stages considering their fertility, growth and survival. Their coarse resolution results in weak predictive abilities since neglected details may still impact the whole. In our case, we need a model of Agarophyton chilense natural intertidal populations that unravels the complex demography of isomorphic biphasic life cycles and be further used for: (i) introduction of genetics, aimed at studying the evolutionary stability of life cycles, (ii) optimizing commercial exploitation, and (iii) adaptation for other species. Long-term monitoring yield 6,066 individual observations and 40 population observations. For a holistic perspective, we developed an Individual-Based Model (IBM) considering ploidy stage, sex stage, holdfast age and survival, frond size, growth and breakage, fecundity, spore survival, stand biomass, location and season. The IBM was calibrated and validated comparing observed and estimated sizes and abundances of gametophyte males, gametophyte females and tetrasporophytes, stand biomass, haploid:dipoid ratio (known as H:D or G:T), fecundity and recruitment. The IBM replicated well the respective individual and population properties, and processes such as winter competition for light, self-thinning, summer stress from desiccation, frond breakage and re-growth, and different niche occupation by haploids and diploids. Its success depended on simulating with precision details such as the holdfasts’ dynamics. Because “details” often occur for a reduced number of individuals, inferring about them required going beyond statistically significant evidences and integrating these with parameter calibration aimed at maximized model fit. On average, the population was haploid-dominated (H:D > 1). In locations stressed by desiccation, the population was slightly biased toward the diploids and younger individuals due to the superior germination and survival of the diploid sporelings. In permanently submerged rock pools the population was biased toward the haploids and older individuals due to the superior growth and survival of the haploid adults. The IBM application demonstrated that conditional differentiation among ploidy stages was responsible for their differential niche occupation, which, in its turn, has been argued as the driver of the evolutionary stability of isomorphic biphasic life cycles.
Focus on the Predictive Value of Subclassification of Extratumoral Structural Abnormalities for Malignant Nonspiculate and Noncalcified Masses on Digital Mammography
Authors: Xu Ye , Sun Jianghong , Guo Fei , Nanding Abiyasi , Li Qiyang , Jiang Dan
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To determine the independent risk factors associated with malignant nonspiculate and noncalcified masses (NSNCMs) and evaluate the predictive values of extratumoral structural abnormalities on digital mammography.

Methods: A total of 435 patients were included between January and May 2018. Tumor signs included shape, density, and margin, which were evaluated. Extratumoral signs were classified into extratumoral structural abnormalities (parenchymal and trabecular) and halo; subclassification included contraction, distortion, pushing and atrophy sign of parenchyma, parallel, vertical, and reticular trabecula sign, and narrow and wide halo. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed. The positive predictive value (PPV) of the independent predictor was calculated, and diagnostic performance was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results: Of all cases, 243 (55.8%) were benign and 192 (44.2%) were malignant. Extratumoral contraction sign of parenchyma was the strongest independent predictor of malignancy (odds ratio [OR] 36.2, p < 0.001; PPV = 96.6%), followed by parenchymal distortion sign (OR 10.2, p < 0.001; PPV = 92%), parallel trabecula sign (OR 7.2, p < 0.001; PPV = 85.6%), and indistinct margin of tumor (OR 4.3, p < 0.001; PPV =70.9%), and also parenchymal atrophy sign, wide halo, vertical trabecula, age ≥ 47.5 years, irregular shape, and size ≥ 22.5 mm of tumor (OR range, 1.3-4.0; PPV range, 56.6-83.6%). The diagnostic performance of most of the extratumoral signs was between that of indistinct margin and irregular shape of tumor.

Conclusion: The subclassification of extratumoral structural abnormalities has important predictive value for mammographic malignant NSNCM, which should be given more attention.
Experimental Study on Bearing Capacity of Corroded Reinforced Concrete Arch Considering Material Degradation
Authors: Xin Jingzhou , Wang Jieyun , Liu Zengwu , You Xing , Zhou Jianting
Published: February 2022

To study the bearing capacity of a corroded reinforced concrete (RC) arch and analyze the deterioration mechanism of an in-service RC arch bridge, a deterioration simulation under the coupling effect of the environment and load was performed by employing non-immersion energization, and considering the dead load on the arch, single point loading tests of the arch models were carried out; the crack development, structural deformation, and ultimate bearing capacity of a corroded RC arch under service stress were studied; the failure mode of the corroded arch was explored; and a bearing capacity prediction model considering dual deterioration effects of reinforcement corrosion deterioration and arch axis deterioration was established. Results indicated that the spacing of cracks caused by a load on the non-corroded arch was more uniform, and the number and distribution range of load-induced cracks in the corroded arch was smaller, while the maximum crack width was larger. Corrosion significantly reduced the strength of the arch rib; for the deteriorated arch with a corrosion rate of 7.62%, the cracking load and the bearing capacity decreased by 28.57 and 9.84%, respectively. Corrosion weakened structural stiffness, while it does not convert the failure mode of the arch. Only considering section resistance degradation may underestimate the damaging effects of corrosion on the arch structure.
A Randomized, Single-Blind, Group Sequential, Active-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Clinical Efficacy and Safety of α-Lipoic Acid for Critically Ill Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Zhong Ming , Sun Aijun , Xiao Ting , Yao Ge , Sang Ling , Zheng Xia , Zhang Jinyan , Jin Xuejuan , Xu Lei , Yang Wenlong , Wang Peng , Hu Kai , Zhang Dingyu , Ge Junbo
Published: February 2022

Object

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of α-Lipoic acid (ALA) for critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods

A randomized, single-blind, group sequential, active-controlled trial was performed at JinYinTan Hospital, Wuhan, China. Between February 2020 and March 2020, 17 patients with critically ill COVID-19 were enrolled in our study. Eligible patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either ALA (1200 mg/d, intravenous infusion) once daily plus standard care or standard care plus equal volume saline infusion (placebo) for 7 days. All patients were monitored within the 7 days therapy and followed up to day 30 after therapy. The primary outcome of this study was the Sequential Organ Failure Estimate (SOFA) score, and the secondary outcome was the all-cause mortality within 30 days.

Result

Nine patients were randomized to placebo group and 8 patients were randomized to ALA group. SOFA score was similar at baseline, increased from 4.3 to 6.0 in the placebo group and increased from 3.8 to 4.0 in the ALA group (P = 0.36) after 7 days. The 30-day all-cause mortality tended to be lower in the ALA group (3/8, 37.5%) compared to that in the placebo group (7/9, 77.8%, P = 0.09).

Conclusion

In our study, ALA use is associated with lower SOFA score increase and lower 30-day all-cause mortality as compared with the placebo group. Although the mortality rate was two-folds higher in placebo group than in ALA group, only borderline statistical difference was evidenced due to the limited patient number. Future studies with larger patient cohort are warranted to validate the role of ALA in critically ill patients with COVID-19.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=49534.
Extracellular Vesicles Derived From Human Corneal Endothelial Cells Inhibit Proliferation of Human Corneal Endothelial Cells
Authors: Parekh Mohit , Rhys Hefin , Ramos Tiago , Ferrari Stefano , Ahmad Sajjad
Published: February 2022

Corneal endothelial cells (CEnCs) are a monolayer of hexagonal cells that are responsible for maintaining the function and transparency of the cornea. Damage or dysfunction of CEnCs could lead to blindness. Human CEnCs (HCEnCs) have shown limited proliferative capacity in vivo hence, their maintenance is crucial. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are responsible for inter- and intra-cellular communication, proliferation, cell-differentiation, migration, and many other complex biological processes. Therefore, we investigated the effect of EVs (derived from human corneal endothelial cell line–HCEC-12) on corneal endothelial cells. HCEC-12 cells were starved with serum-depleted media for 72 h. The media was ultracentrifuged at 100,000xg to isolate the EVs. EV counting, characterization, internalization and localization were performed using NanoSight, flow cytometry, Dil labeling and confocal microscopy respectively. HCEC-12 and HCEnCs were cultured with media supplemented with EVs. Extracted EVs showed a homogeneous mixture of exosomes and microvesicles. Cells with EVs decreased the proliferation rate; increased apoptosis and cell size; showed poor wound healing response in vitro and on ex vivo human, porcine, and rabbit CECs. Thirteen miRNAs were found in the EV sample using next generation sequencing. We observed that increased cellular uptake of EVs by CECs limit the proliferative capacity of HCEnCs. These preliminary data may help in understanding the pathology of corneal endothelial dysfunction and provide further insights in the development of future therapeutic treatment options.
Knowledge and Practice on Prevention and Control of Tuberculosis Among Nurses Working in a Regional Hospital, Nepal
Authors: Baral Mira Adhikari , Koirala Sumitra
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly prevalent communicable disease in Nepal. All health personnel who care for such patients are at high risk of developing tuberculosis. It is very necessary for all healthcare providers, especially nurses, who spend a lot of time with such patients, to have adequate knowledge and correct practice on the occupational safety measures to maintain health and prevent transmission of the disease. This study was carried out to assess the knowledge and practice of nurses in the prevention and control of TB infection.

Method

This study was a cross-sectional study conducted on nurses working in all wards and Outpatient Departments (OPDs) of Western Regional Hospital, Pokhara, Nepal. A complete enumeration of the respondents was performed, and data were collected consecutively, using a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire, from all nurses working in all the wards and OPDs of the hospital. The predictors of knowledge of TB infection prevention and control (TBIPC) were assessed using binary logistic regression.

Results

The study findings showed that a majority of nurses had an inadequate level of knowledge and poor practice of prevention and control of TB. Regarding practice, none of the nurses reported the use of an N95 mask or a respirator during care of the patients with TB and all the nurses reported that they used chemical disinfectant (virex) to clean the room and the surfaces. However, none of them reported the use of fumigation or ultraviolet irradiation for disinfection. Nurses who were 40 years and older (p = 0.001, adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 5.965, CI = 2.083–17.457) and who were currently working in the wards with isolation rooms demonstrated higher odds for knowledge on TBIPC (p = 0.010, AOR = 2.686, CI = 1.264–5.710).

Conclusions

This study showed that a majority of nurses had an inadequate level of knowledge and implemented poor safety measures for the prevention and control of tuberculosis. This increases their risk of being infected with TB infection and cross-transmission. It is recommended that the hospital plan and conduct the necessary education/training for nurses to update their knowledge, develop the organizational structure and policies, and establish a system to support and monitor the practice of health workers on the prevention and control of TB, and maintain the health and safety of nurses caring for patients with TB.
Low Serum Vitamin D Is Not Correlated With Myopia in Chinese Children and Adolescents
Authors: Li Xiaoman , Lin Haishuang , Jiang Longfei , Chen Xin , Chen Jie , Lu Fan
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This cross-sectional study investigated the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration and myopia in two groups of Chinese children aged 6–14 years from different geographic and economic locations.

Methods

A total of 294 children from a lowland area and 89 from a highland area were enrolled as two groups of study subjects. The visual acuity, ocular biometry, and automated refraction were measured. The serum level of 25(OH)D was determined by chemiluminescence immunoassay. Near vision and outdoor exposure durations were assessed with a questionnaire interview. Data were analyzed for differences using Chi-square and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. The risk factors were evaluated using logistic regression analysis.

Results

We found that the serum level of 25(OH)D of the subjects from lowland area was 20.9 ng/mL which was higher than that of subjects from highland area (16.9 ng/mL). The median spherical equivalent refraction (SER) was −0.25 diopters(D) in lowland subjects and −0.63D in highland subjects. The prevalence of myopia was 45.2% in lowland subjects and 55.1% in highland subjects. The average axial length was similar, 23.6 mm and 23.1 mm in lowland and highland subjects, respectively. We found no statistical difference between the average SER and serum 25(OH)D concentration in subjects of either lowland or highland area. The ratio of myopia to non-myopia was also similar in subjects with three levels (sufficient, deficient, and insufficient) of serum 25(OH)D in these two areas.

Conclusions

There is no association between serum 25(OH)D concentration and myopia in the 6–14 years old Chinese children.
Rapid Diagnosis of Mycobacterium marinum Infection by Next-Generation Sequencing: A Case Report
Authors: Xing Fanfan , Lo Simon K. F. , Ma Yuanchao , Ip Jonathan Daniel , Chan Wan-Mui , Zhou Meixun , Gong Miaozi , Lau Susanna K. P. , Woo Patrick C. Y.
Published: February 2022

We present the first report of histology- and culture-proven Mycobacterium marinum infection diagnosed by next-generation sequencing (NGS). It took <2 days to make a microbiological diagnosis using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies' MinION device, compared to 20 days for the mycobacterium to be isolated from the tissue biopsy. NGS is particularly useful for culture-negative and slow-growing microorganism infections, such as mycobacterial, fungal and partially treated pyogenic bacterial infections. Due to its low equipment cost, short turn-around-time and portable size, the Oxford Nanopore Technologies' MinION device is a useful platform for NGS in routine clinical microbiology laboratories.
The Association Between Sleep Disorders and Incidence of Dry Eye Disease in Ningbo: Data From an Integrated Health Care Network
Authors: Zheng Qinxiang , Li Saiqing , Wen Feng , Lin Zhong , Feng Kemi , Sun Yexiang , Bao Jie , Weng Hongfei , Shen Peng , Lin Hongbo , Chen Wei
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To investigate the association between sleep disorders and dry eye disease (DED) in Ningbo, China.

Methods

Our data came from the Yinzhou Health Information System (HIS), including 257932 patients and was based on a 1:1 matching method (sleep disorder patients vs. patients without sleep disorders) during 2013–2020. Sleep disorders and DED were identified using ICD-10 codes. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify the association between sleep disorders and DED.

Results

The eight-year incidence of DED was significantly higher in participants with diagnosis of sleep disorders (sleep disorders: 50.66%, no sleep disorders: 16.48%, P < 0.01). Sleep disorders were positively associated with the diagnosis of DED (HR: 3.06, 95% CI: 2.99–3.13, P < 0.01), when sex, age, hypertension, diabetes and other systemic diseases were adjusted. In the sleep disorders patients, advancing age, female sex, and presence of coexisting disease (hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, thyroid disease, depression, heart disease, and arthritis) were significantly associated with the development of DED by the multivariate cox regression analysis (all P < 0.05).In addition, there was a significantly positive association between estazolam and the incidence of DED in both sleep disorder and non-sleep disorder groups (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Sleep disrder was associated with a three-time increased risk of DED. This association can be helpful in effective management of both sleep disorders and DED.
Seasonal Effect on Disease Onset and Presentation in Anti-MDA5 Positive Dermatomyositis
Authors: So Ho , So Jacqueline , Lam Tommy Tsz-On , Wong Victor Tak-Lung , Ho Roy , Li Wai Ling , Lau Chak Sing , Tam Lai-Shan
Published: February 2022

Objective

To investigate the seasonal variation of disease onset and presentation in an ethno-geographically homogeneous cohort of patients with anti-MDA5 positive dermatomyositis (DM).

Methods

This was a multi-centered, retrospective cohort study. Adult Chinese anti-MDA5 positive DM patients were identified from the Hong Kong Myositis Registry and the Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System from 2015 to 2020. Equal number of IIM patients without anti-MDA5 antibody were selected as controls. Line blot immunoassay was used to detect the autoantibodies. The onset of disease, presenting clinical features and subsequent complications were analyzed for any seasonality.

Results

A total of 110 patients with anti-MDA5 positive DM were studied. The mean age at diagnosis was 53.0 ± 12.3 years and the mean follow-up duration was 20.6 ± 23.1 months. Two third of the patients (66%) had the clinically amyopathic phenotype. Most patients (86%) had interstitial lung disease (ILD) and 42% developed rapidly progressive ILD (RP-ILD). The mortality was 40% and the commonest cause was RP-ILD. Chi-square test showed significantly less patients had symptom onset in July to September. However, no particular seasonal pattern was observed in the anti-MDA5 negative IIM controls. RP-ILD occurred more frequently in patients with disease onset in October to December. Anti-MDA5 positive DM patients with disease onset in warmer months (April to September) were more likely to have clinical muscle involvement.

Conclusion

Apparent seasonal patterns were noted in our ethno-geographically identical anti-MDA5 positive DM patients, but not in IIM patients in general. Certain environmental factors, particularly infection, might be implicated.
Down-Regulated miR-130a/b Attenuates Rhabdomyosarcoma Proliferation via PPARG
Authors: Pan Yi , Li Junyang , Lou Susu , Chen Wanbiao , Lin Yihang , Shen Nan , Li Youjin
Published: February 2022

Background: Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is one of the most common types of soft-tissue sarcomas in children, and it exhibits a low 5-years survival rate. The survival outcome has shown no significant improvements in the past 30 years miRNA profiling of RMS might therefore provide a novel insight into uncovering new molecular targets for therapy.

Methods: We analyzed miRNA and RNA sequencing data from patients and the TARGET database to reveal the potential miRNA-mRNA axes and validated them in patients’ samples. After the miRNA antagomirs were used to silence the target miRNAs in the cell model, qRT-PCR, western immunoblotting analysis, and proliferation assays were performed to explore the interaction between miR-130a/b and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) and their effects.

Results: In RMS patients, the expression of miR-130a/b was augmented, and its related PPARG gene was suppressed. Bioinformatics analysis showed that miR-130a/b targeted the PPARG gene and inhibited the proliferation of human RMS cell lines. In addition, rosiglitazone maleate activated the expression of PPARG in human RMS cell lines to suppress proliferation.

Conclusion: miR-130a/b regulates the malignant process in RMS by targeting PPARG. Furthermore, the PPARG agonist rosiglitazone maleate attenuated the proliferation of RD cells and might therefore be of benefit to RMS patients.
Concurrent Identification and Characterization of Protein Structure and Continuous Internal Dynamics with REDCRAFT
Authors: Omar Hanin , Hein Aaron , Cole Casey A. , Valafar Homayoun
Published: February 2022

Internal dynamics of proteins can play a critical role in the biological function of some proteins. Several well documented instances have been reported such as MBP, DHFR, hTS, DGCR8, and NSP1 of the SARS-CoV family of viruses. Despite the importance of internal dynamics of proteins, there currently are very few approaches that allow for meaningful separation of internal dynamics from structural aspects using experimental data. Here we present a computational approach named REDCRAFT that allows for concurrent characterization of protein structure and dynamics. Here, we have subjected DHFR (PDB-ID 1RX2), a 159-residue protein, to a fictitious, mixed mode model of internal dynamics. In this simulation, DHFR was segmented into 7 regions where 4 of the fragments were fixed with respect to each other, two regions underwent rigid-body dynamics, and one region experienced uncorrelated and melting event. The two dynamical and rigid-body segments experienced an average orientational modification of 7° and 12° respectively. Observable RDC data for backbone C′-N, N-HN, and C′-HN were generated from 102 uniformly sampled frames that described the molecular trajectory. The structure calculation of DHFR with REDCRAFT by using traditional Ramachandran restraint produced a structure with 29 Å of structural difference measured over the backbone atoms (bb-rmsd) over the entire length of the protein and an average bb-rmsd of more than 4.7 Å over each of the dynamical fragments. The same exercise repeated with context-specific dihedral restraints generated by PDBMine produced a structure with bb-rmsd of 21 Å over the entire length of the protein but with bb-rmsd of less than 3 Å over each of the fragments. Finally, utilization of the Dynamic Profile generated by REDCRAFT allowed for the identification of different dynamical regions of the protein and the recovery of individual fragments with bb-rmsd of less than 1 Å. Following the recovery of the fragments, our assembly procedure of domains (larger segments consisting of multiple fragments with a common dynamical profile) correctly assembled the four fragments that are rigid with respect to each other, categorized the two domains that underwent rigid-body dynamics, and identified one dynamical region for which no conserved structure could be defined. In conclusion, our approach was successful in identifying the dynamical domains, recovery of structure where it is meaningful, and relative assembly of the domains when possible.
Immunohistochemical Characterisation of the Whale Retina
Authors: Ruzafa Noelia , Pereiro Xandra , Vecino Elena
Published: February 2022

The eye of the largest adult mammal in the world, the whale, offers a unique opportunity to study the evolution of the visual system and its adaptation to aquatic environments. However, the difficulties in obtaining cetacean samples mean these animals have been poorly studied. Thus, the aim of this study was to characterise the different neurons and glial cells in the whale retina by immunohistochemistry using a range of molecular markers. The whale retinal neurons were analysed using different antibodies, labelling retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), photoreceptors, bipolar and amacrine cells. Finally, glial cells were also labelled, including astrocytes, Müller cells and microglia. Thioflavin S was also used to label oligomers and plaques of misfolded proteins. Molecular markers were used to label the specific structures in the whale retinas, as in terrestrial mammalian retinas. However, unlike the retina of most land mammals, whale cones do not express the cone markers used. It is important to highlight the large size of whale RGCs. All the neurofilament (NF) antibodies used labelled whale RGCs, but not all RGCs were labelled by all the NF antibodies used, as it occurs in the porcine and human retina. It is also noteworthy that intrinsically photosensitive RGCs, labelled with melanopsin, form an extraordinary network in the whale retina. The M1, M2, and M3 subtypes of melanopsin positive-cells were detected. Degenerative neurite beading was observed on RGC axons and dendrites when the retina was analysed 48 h post-mortem. In addition, there was a weak Thioflavin S labelling at the edges of some RGCs in a punctuate pattern that possibly reflects an early sign of neurodegeneration. In conclusion, the whale retina differs from that of terrestrial mammals. Their monochromatic rod vision due to the evolutionary loss of cone photoreceptors and the well-developed melanopsin-positive RGC network could, in part, explain the visual perception of these mammals in the deep sea.
Environment Classification for Robotic Leg Prostheses and Exoskeletons Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Laschowski Brokoslaw , McNally William , Wong Alexander , McPhee John
Published: February 2022

Robotic leg prostheses and exoskeletons can provide powered locomotor assistance to older adults and/or persons with physical disabilities. However, the current locomotion mode recognition systems being developed for automated high-level control and decision-making rely on mechanical, inertial, and/or neuromuscular sensors, which inherently have limited prediction horizons (i.e., analogous to walking blindfolded). Inspired by the human vision-locomotor control system, we developed an environment classification system powered by computer vision and deep learning to predict the oncoming walking environments prior to physical interaction, therein allowing for more accurate and robust high-level control decisions. In this study, we first reviewed the development of our “ExoNet” database—the largest and most diverse open-source dataset of wearable camera images of indoor and outdoor real-world walking environments, which were annotated using a hierarchical labeling architecture. We then trained and tested over a dozen state-of-the-art deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) on the ExoNet database for image classification and automatic feature engineering, including: EfficientNetB0, InceptionV3, MobileNet, MobileNetV2, VGG16, VGG19, Xception, ResNet50, ResNet101, ResNet152, DenseNet121, DenseNet169, and DenseNet201. Finally, we quantitatively compared the benchmarked CNN architectures and their environment classification predictions using an operational metric called “NetScore,” which balances the image classification accuracy with the computational and memory storage requirements (i.e., important for onboard real-time inference with mobile computing devices). Our comparative analyses showed that the EfficientNetB0 network achieves the highest test accuracy; VGG16 the fastest inference time; and MobileNetV2 the best NetScore, which can inform the optimal architecture design or selection depending on the desired performance. Overall, this study provides a large-scale benchmark and reference for next-generation environment classification systems for robotic leg prostheses and exoskeletons.
Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Static Magnetic Field Regulate Neural Stem Cell Proliferation
Authors: Li Dan , Hu Yangnan , Wei Hao , Chen Wei , Liu Yun , Yan Xiaoqian , Guo Lingna , Liao Menghui , Chen Bo , Chai Renjie , Tang Mingliang
Published: February 2022

Neural stem cells (NSCs) transplantation is a promising approach for the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) are reported to modulate stem cell behaviors and are used for medical imaging. However, the detailed effects of SPIOs under the presence of static magnetic field (SMF) on NSCs are not well elucidated. In this study, it was found that SPIOs could enter the cells within 24 h, while they were mainly distributed in the lysosomes. SPIO exhibited good adhesion and excellent biocompatibility at concentrations below 500 μg/ml. In addition, SPIOs were able to promote NSC proliferation in the absence of SMF. In contrast, the high intensity of SMF (145 ± 10 mT) inhibited the expansion ability of NSCs. Our results demonstrate that SPIOs with SMF could promote NSC proliferation, which could have profound significance for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine for SPIO applications.
Retinal Degeneration: A Window to Understand the Origin and Progression of Parkinson’s Disease?
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Zhang Xiaoguang , Yue Yunhua , Tian Tian
Published: February 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD), the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, manifests with motor and non-motor symptoms associated with two main pathological hallmarks, including the deterioration of dopaminergic cells and aggregation of alpha-synuclein. Yet, PD is a neurodegenerative process whose origin is uncertain and progression difficult to monitor and predict. Currently, a possibility is that PD may be secondary to long lasting peripheral affectations. In this regard, it has been shown that retinal degeneration is present in PD patients. Although it is unknown if retinal degeneration precedes PD motor symptoms, the possibility exists since degeneration of peripheral organs (e.g., olfaction, gut) have already been proven to antedate PD motor symptoms. In this paper, we explore this possibility by introducing the anatomical and functional relationship of retina and brain and providing an overview of the physiopathological changes of retinal structure and visual function in PD. On the basis of the current status of visual deficits in individuals with PD, we discuss the modalities and pathological mechanism of visual function or morphological changes in the retina and focus on the correlation between visual impairment and some representative structural features with clinical significance. To consider retinal degeneration as a contributor to PD origin and progress is important because PD evolution may be monitored and predicted by retinal studies through state-of-the-art techniques of the retina. It is significant to integrally understand the role of retinal morphological and functional changes in the neurodegenerative process for the diagnosis and therapeutic strategies of PD.
Emerging Roles for Hox Proteins in the Last Steps of Neuronal Development in Worms, Flies, and Mice
Authors: Feng Weidong , Li Yinan , Kratsios Paschalis
Published: February 2022

A remarkable diversity of cell types characterizes every animal nervous system. Previous studies provided important insights into how neurons commit to a particular fate, migrate to the right place and form precise axodendritic patterns. However, the mechanisms controlling later steps of neuronal development remain poorly understood. Hox proteins represent a conserved family of homeodomain transcription factors with well-established roles in anterior-posterior (A-P) patterning and the early steps of nervous system development, including progenitor cell specification, neuronal migration, cell survival, axon guidance and dendrite morphogenesis. This review highlights recent studies in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster and mice that suggest new roles for Hox proteins in processes occurring during later steps of neuronal development, such as synapse formation and acquisition of neuronal terminal identity features (e.g., expression of ion channels, neurotransmitter receptors, and neuropeptides). Moreover, we focus on exciting findings suggesting Hox proteins are required to maintain synaptic structures and neuronal terminal identity during post-embryonic life. Altogether, these studies, in three model systems, support the hypothesis that certain Hox proteins are continuously required, from early development throughout post-embryonic life, to build and maintain a functional nervous system, significantly expanding their functional repertoire beyond the control of early A-P patterning.
An Invertible Dynamic Graph Convolutional Network for Multi-Center ASD Classification
Authors: Chen Yueying , Liu Aiping , Fu Xueyang , Wen Jie , Chen Xun
Published: February 2022

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one common developmental disorder with great variations in symptoms and severity, making the diagnosis of ASD a challenging task. Existing deep learning models using brain connectivity features to classify ASD still suffer from degraded performance for multi-center data due to limited feature representation ability and insufficient interpretability. Given that Graph Convolutional Network (GCN) has demonstrated superiority in learning discriminative representations of brain connectivity networks, in this paper, we propose an invertible dynamic GCN model to identify ASD and investigate the alterations of connectivity patterns associated with the disease. In order to select explainable features from the model, invertible blocks are introduced in the whole network, and we are able to reconstruct the input dynamic features from the network's output. A pre-screening of connectivity features is adopted to reduce the redundancy of the input information, and a fully-connected layer is added to perform classification. The experimental results on 867 subjects show that our proposed method achieves superior disease classification performance. It provides an interpretable deep learning model for brain connectivity analysis and is of great potential in studying brain-related disorders.
Association of Serum Vitamin C With NAFLD and MAFLD Among Adults in the United States
Authors: Xie Zhi-Qin , Li Hong-Xia , Tan Wen-Liang , Yang Lei , Ma Xiao-Wu , Li Wen-Xin , Wang Qing-Bin , Shang Chang-Zhen , Chen Ya-Jin
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims

Despite the remarkable progress of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly named non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the disease remains poorly improved. Since increased oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the initiation and progression of fatty liver disorders, vitamin C (VC), an antioxidant agent, might be a suitable treatment option for MAFLD. However, the lack of clinically confirmed benefits makes clinicians challenging to recommend antioxidant supplements for MAFLD individuals.

Methods

Herein, the nationally representative National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017–2018 data were collected to evaluate the potential association between the serum VC levels with the risk of different categories of NALFD and the newly proposed MAFLD terminology. Hepatic steatosis was defined as controlled attenuated parameter scores ≥ 263 dB/m, whereas liver fibrosis (LF) status was defined as F0–F4, with the cutoff values of median liver stiffness being 6.3, 8.3, 10.5, and 12.5 (KPa), respectively. A cross-sectional analysis was performed to calculate the odds rate and determine the potential beneficial effects of VC.

Results

A total of 4,494 participants aged more than 18 years and conducted transient elastography examinations were included. Our findings demonstrated that participants with increased serum VC status were more likely to be female predominant, more educated, and moderate drinkers. Interestingly, female participants tended to have a lower prevalence of NAFLD, MAFLD, LF, and liver cirrhosis (LC) after stratification by gender. Moreover, our results revealed that participants from the quartile three group (quartile 3: 50.5–67.0 μmol/L) experienced a slightly lower risk of MAFLD than the risk of NAFLD. Of note, the serum concentration of VC (quartile 2: 30.9–50.5 μmol/L) inversely associated with LF and LC was lower than the serum VC level (quartile 3) associated with NAFLD and MAFLD. Notably, individuals from the quartile 3 group experienced a statistically significant 32.5, 42.0, 45.7, and 71% decrease in risk of NAFLD, MAFLD, LF, and LC, respectively.

Conclusion

In summary, our findings suggested an inverse association between serum VC levels and NAFLD, MAFLD, LF, or LC. Additionally, adjustment of VC supplementation according to age, gender, and ethnicity may be a promising candidate for these diseases.
The Omega-3 Index Response to an 8 Week Randomized Intervention Containing Three Fatty Fish Meals Per Week Is Influenced by Adiposity in Overweight to Obese Women
Authors: Richardson Christine E. , Krishnan Sridevi , Gray Ira J. , Keim Nancy L. , Newman John W.
Published: February 2022

Background

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommends consuming ~225 g/wk of a variety of seafood providing >1.75 g/wk of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids to reduce cardiovascular disease risk, however individual responses to treatment vary.

Objective

This study had three main objectives. First, to determine if a DGA-conforming diet (DGAD), in comparison to a typical American diet (TAD), can increase the omega-3 index (OM3I), i.e., the red blood cell mol% of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Second, to identify factors explaining variability in the OM3I response to dietary treatment. Third to identify factors associated with the baseline OM3I.

Design

This is a secondary analysis of a randomized, double-blind 8 wk dietary intervention of overweight/obese women fed an 8d rotating TAD (n = 20) or DGAD (n = 22) registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02298725. The DGAD-group consumed 240 g/wk of Atlantic farmed salmon and albacore tuna in three meals with an estimated EPA + DHA of 3.7 ± 0.6 g/wk. The TAD-group consumed ~160 g/wk of farmed white shrimp and a seafood salad containing imitation crab in three meal with an estimated EPA + DHA of 0.45 ± 0.05 g/wk. Habitual diet was determined at baseline, and body composition was determined at 0 and 8wks. Red blood cell fatty acids were measured at 0, 2 and 8 wk.

Results

At 8 wk, the TAD-group OM3I was unchanged (5.90 ± 1.35–5.80 ± 0.76%), while the DGAD-group OM3I increased (5.63 ± 1.27–7.33 ± 1.36%; p < 0.001). In the DGAD-group 9 of 22 participants achieved an OM3I >8%. Together, body composition and the baseline OM3I explained 83% of the response to treatment variability. Baseline OM3I (5.8 ± 1.3%; n = 42) was negatively correlated to the android fat mass (p = 0.0007) and positively correlated to the FFQ estimated habitual (EPA+DHA) when expressed as a ratio to total dietary fat (p = 0.006).

Conclusions

An 8 wk TAD did not change the OM3I of ~6%, while a DGAD with 240 g/wk of salmon and albacore tuna increased the OM3I. Body fat distribution and basal omega-3 status are primary factors influencing the OM3I response to dietary intake in overweight/obese women.
Biology of PEST‐Containing Nuclear Protein: A Potential Molecular Target for Cancer Research
Authors: Khan Nazeer Hussain , Chen Hao-Jie , Fan Yuanyuan , Surfaraz Muhammad , Ahammad MD.Faysal , Qin Yang-Zhe , Shahid Muhammad , Virk Razia , Jiang Enshe , Wu Dong-Dong , Ji Xin-Ying
Published: February 2022

PEST-containing nuclear protein (PCNP), a novel nuclear protein, is involved in vital cellular processes like cell proliferation and mediates tumorigenesis. PCNP is a short-living, small nuclear protein of only 178 amino acids with two remarkable PEST sequences that are rich in proline (P), glutamic acid (E), serine (S), and threonine (T). The current understanding of PCNP reveals that PCNP has the ability to interact with cell cycle regulatory proteins; tumor suppressors (p53 and pRB), and promoters (cyclin E and cyclin D) to determine the fate of tissues to facilitate the process of either apoptosis or cell proliferation. In many preclinical studies, it has been evaluated that PCNP expression has associations with the development and progression of various cancers like neuroblastoma, lung adenocarcinoma, and ovarian cancer. Based on these depicted novel roles of PCNP in cell cycleregulation and of PCNP in tumorigenesis, it is logical to consider PCNP as a potential molecular target for cancer research. The aim of the current communication is to present an update on PCNP research and discussion on the potential role of PCNP in cancer development with challenges and opportunities perspectives. Considering the available evidence as a baseline for our statement, we anticipate that in the future, new research insights will strengthen the aim to develop PCNP-based diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that will move the PCNP from the laboratory to the cancer clinic.
Health Disparities of Sexual Minority Patients Following Prostate Cancer Treatment: Results From the Restore-2 Study
Authors: Rosser B. R. Simon , Polter Elizabeth J. , Talley Kristine M. C. , Wheldon Christopher W. , Haggart Ryan , Wright Morgan , West William , Mitteldorf Darryl , Ross Michael W. , Konety Badrinath R. , Kohli Nidhi
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The NIH has identified sexual and gender minority persons as a health disparity population but little is known about cancer outcomes in these populations. The purpose of this study was to identify disparities in sexual minority prostate cancer patient-reported outcomes, to examine within group differences, and to test for alternative explanations for identified differences.

Materials and Methods

In 2019, we recruited 401 gay and bisexual prostate cancer patients into the Restore-2 study, a randomized controlled trial of rehabilitation program tailored for sexual minority men.

Results

Compared to the normative (heterosexual) EPIC sample, participants had significantly worse urinary, bowel and hormonal function, better sexual function, and no difference on bother scores. They also had worse depression and overall mental health, and worse physical, social/family, functional, prostate specific and overall well-being quality of life outcomes. Across measures, no differences by age, gay versus bisexual orientation, race/ethnicity, and relationship status were observed. Those who had hormonal treatment had worse sexual and hormonal function than those who had radiation or surgery only. Those with a longer time since treatment had better urinary function. Differences remained when participants were matched to normative samples on cancer stage and time since treatment.

Conclusions

This, the largest study of sexual minority prostate cancer patients to date, confirms health disparities in prostate cancer quality of life outcomes. Findings appear reliable and robust. To improve the clinical care of prostate cancer, it will be important to address the health disparities experienced by sexual minority prostate cancer patients.
Seizures in Fragile X Syndrome: Associations and Longitudinal Analysis of a Large Clinic-Based Cohort
Authors: Berry-Kravis Elizabeth , Filipink Robyn A. , Frye Richard E. , Golla Sailaja , Morris Stephanie M. , Andrews Howard , Choo Tse-Hwei , Kaufmann Walter E. ,   The FORWARD Consortium
Published: February 2022

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability, learning disability, and autism spectrum disorder, is associated with an increased prevalence of certain medical conditions including seizures. The goal of this study was to better understand seizures in individuals with FXS using the Fragile X Online Registry with Accessible Research Database, a multisite observational study initiated in 2012 involving FXS clinics in the Fragile X Clinic and Research Consortium. Seizure data were available for 1,607 participants, mostly male (77%) and white (74.5%). The overall prevalence of at least one seizure was 12%, with this rate being significantly higher in males than females (13.7 vs. 6.2%, p < 0.001). As compared to individuals with FXS without seizures, those with seizures were more likely to have autism spectrum disorder, current sleep apnea, later acquisition of expressive language, more severe intellectual disability, hyperactivity, irritability, and stereotyped movements. The mean age of seizure onset was 6.4 (SD 6.1) years of age with the great majority (>80%) having onset of seizures which was before 10. For those with epilepsy, about half (52%) had seizures for more than 3 years. This group was found to have greater cognitive and language impairment, but not behavioral disruptions, compared with those with seizures for <3 years. Antiepileptic drugs were more often used in males (60.6%) than females (34.8%), and females more often required more than one medication. The most commonly used anticonvulsants were oxcarbazepine, valproic acid, lamotrigine, and levetiracetam. The current study is the largest and first longitudinal study ever conducted to describe seizures in FXS. Overall, this study confirms previous reports of seizures in FXS and extends previous findings by further defining the cognitive and behavioral phenotype of those with epilepsy in FXS. Future studies should further investigate the natural history of seizures in FXS and the characteristics of seizures in FXS in adulthood.
The Relationship Between Children's Birth Time and Short Stature
Authors: Wang Shuo , Shao Na , Ding Yiyi , Cai Hong , Zou Runmei , Wang Cheng
Published: February 2022

Background

There are few current reports on the relationship between time of birth and short stature in children. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether there is an association between time of birth and short stature in children.

Materials and Methods

In this study, basic information was collected from 462 children aged 2–14 years old. We collected data on gender, height, height standard deviation score (SDS), weight, body mass index (BMI), serum 25(OH)D levels, date of birth, and whether the above children were short stature. Demographic description, univariate analysis, multivariate logistic regression analysis, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effects were used to explore possible linear or non-linear relationships between children's birth time and short stature.

Results

The mean age of the 462 children was 9.76 ± 3.10 years old, and 52.16% were male. A total of 129 (27.92%) children were defined as 25(OH)D insufficiency, including 107 (38.91%) in the short stature group and 22 (11.76%) in the normal stature group. Fully adjusted logistic regression showed that the risk of short stature was reduced by 56.5% in children born in summer compared with spring (P < 0.05) [odds ratio (OR): 0.435, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.197–0.959]. A non-linear relationship was found between “sequential day of the year” and short stature from the 1st to the 250th day of the year, the risk of short stature in children is reduced by 0.6% for each day that passes (P = 0.002) (OR: 0.994, 95% CI: 0.990–0.998), and from the 250th to the 365th day of the year, the risk of short stature in children was increased by 0.8% for each day that passed (P = 0.008) (OR: 1.008, 95% CI: 1.001–1.025).

Conclusions

Children born in summer have a lower risk of short stature than spring. For children born before the 250th day of the year, “sequential day of the year” was negatively associated with short stature, and for children born after the 250th day, “sequential day of the year” was positively associated with short stature.