bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Azithromycin ameliorated cigarette smoke-induced airway epithelial barrier dysfunction by activating Nrf2/GCL/GSH signaling pathway
Authors: Song Yun , Fu Wenhuan , Zhang Youzhi , Huang Doudou , Wu Jian , Tong Shuangmei , Zhong Mingkang , Cao Huifang , Wang Bin
Published: March 2023

Background

Airway epithelium is the first barrier against environmental insults, and epithelial barrier dysfunction caused by cigarette smoke (CS) is particularly relevant to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) progression. Our study was to determine whether Azithromycin (AZI) ameliorates CS-induced airway epithelial barrier dysfunction and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Primary bronchial epithelial cells (PBECs), human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs), Sprague Dawley rats and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)−/− mice were pretreated with AZI and subsequently exposed to CS. Transepithelial electronic resistance (TEER), junction proteins as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis markers were examined to assess epithelial barrier dysfunction. Metabolomics study was applied to explore the underlying mechanism of AZI.

Results

CS-induced TEER decline and intercellular junction destruction, accompanied with inflammatory response and cell apoptosis in PBECs were restored by AZI dose-dependently, which were also observed in CS-exposed rats. Mechanistically, GSH metabolism pathway was identified as the top differentially impacted pathway and AZI treatment upregulated the activities of glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL) and the contents of metabolites in GSH metabolic pathway. Furthermore, AZI apparently reversed CS-induced Nrf2 suppression, and similar effects on airway epithelial barrier dysfunction were also found for Nrf2 agonist tert-butylhydroquinone and vitamin C. Finally, deletion of Nrf2 in both HBECs and C57BL/6N mice aggravated CS-induced GSH metabolism imbalance to disrupt airway epithelial barrier and partially deprived the effects of AZI.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the clinical benefits of AZI for COPD management are related with the protection of CS-induced airway epithelial barrier dysfunction via activating Nrf2/GCL/GSH pathway, providing potential therapeutic strategies for COPD.

Graphical abstract
Community stressors and coping mechanisms in accessing the health system during a double crisis: a qualitative case study from Yangon Region, Myanmar
Authors: Kyaw Hnin Kalyar , Than Kyu Kyu , Diaconu Karin , Witter Sophie
Published: March 2023

Background

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and political crisis, Myanmar’s health system has suspended routine services while struggling to respond to the pandemic. Many people who need continuous care, like pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses, have been facing challenges in seeking and receiving essential health services. This study explored community health seeking practices and coping mechanisms, including their views on health system stressors.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional qualitative study based on 12 in-depth-interviews with pregnant people and persons with pre-existing chronic health conditions in Yangon. Sampling was purposive, convenience-based and snowball sampling was also used. The 3-delays framework was used to understand how persons were interacting with and accessing health care services; community and health system stressors and coping mechanisms in relation to COVID-19 were also identified.

Results

Findings showed that Yangon region was the hardest hit with both the pandemic and political crisis and its health system was greatly affected. People were unable to access essential health services on time. The health facilities were not available to see patients, with serious shortages in human resources, medicines and equipment, resulting in interruption of essential routine services. The prices of medicines and consultation fees, and transportation costs, increased during this period. Limited options for accessing care were available due to travel restrictions and curfews. It became challenging to receive quality care because of unavailable public facilities and private hospitals being costly.

Despite these challenges, the Myanmar people and health system have shown resilience. Cohesive and organized family support structures and extended and deep social networks played an important role in accessing health care. At times of emergency, people relied on community-based social organizations for transportation and accessing essential medicines. The health system also showed resilience through establishing new service provision options, such as teleconsultations, mobile clinics, and sharing medical advice through social media.

Conclusions

This is the first study in Myanmar to explore peoples’ perceptions on COVID-19, the health system and their healthcare experiences during political crisis. Although there is no easy way to cope with this dual hardship, the people and the health system, even in a fragile and shock-prone setting like Myanmar, stayed resilient by developing alternative pathways for seeking and providing health services.
Different lymph node dissection ranges during radical prostatectomy for patients with prostate cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xianlu , Zhang Gejun , Wang Jianfeng , Bi Jianbin
Published: March 2023

Objective

The purpose of this network meta-analysis was to compare the effectiveness and adverse effects of limited, standard, extended, and super-extended pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) following radical prostatectomy.

Methods

This study followed the PRISMA 2020 statement. Clinical trials were searched from three electronic databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase from the database’s inception to April 5, 2022. The lymph node-positive rate, biochemical recurrence-free rate, lymphocele rate, thromboembolic rate, and overall complication rate were compared by meta-analysis. Data analyses were performed using R software based on the Bayesian framework.

Results

Sixteen studies involving 15,269 patients were included. All 16 studies compared the lymph node-positive rate; 5 studies compared the biochemical recurrence-free rate; 10 studies compared the lymphocele rate; 6 studies compared the thromboembolic rate, and 9 studies compared the overall complication rate. According to Bayesian analysis, the lymph node-positive rate, lymphocele rate, and overall complication rate were significantly associated with the extension of the PLND range. The limited, extended, and super-extended PLND templates showed a similar but lower biochemical recurrence-free rate and a higher thromboembolic rate than the standard template.

Conclusions

The extension of the PLND range is associated with an elevated lymph node-positive rate; however, it does not improve the biochemical recurrence-free rate and correlates with an increased risk of complications, especially lymphocele. The selection of the PLND range in clinical practice should consider the oncological risk and adverse effects.

Trial registration

PROSPERO (CRD42022301759).
Prognostic value of serum α-HBDH levels in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Yuan Zhi-Min , Wang Long-Hao , Chen Cheng
Published: March 2023

Background

The purpose of our study is to investigate the expression level and prognostic value of serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (α-HBDH) in lung cancer (LC) patients.

Method

LC patients treated in the Department of Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital from January 2014 to December 2016 were included in this study, all of whom underwent serological detection of α-HBDH prior to admission, and were enrolled in follow-up 5-year survival. Comparing the differences between high group and normal groups based on α-HBDH and LDH expression via clinicopathological parameters and laboratory data. Univariate and multivariate regression and overall survival (OS) were analyzed to explore whether elevated α-HBDH was an independent risk factor for LC, compared to LDH.

Results

Multivariate regression analysis showed that age (P = 0.018), liver metastasis (P = 0.011), α-HBDH (P = 0.015), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (P = 0.031) were independent prognostic factors affecting OS in LC patients. The overall diagnostic efficacy of α-HBDH (AUC = 0.887) was higher than that of LDH (AUC = 0.709) in the ROC curve. The sensitivity was significantly higher of α-HBDH (sensitivity: 76.06%, specificity: 94.87%) compared with LDH (sensitivity: 49.30%, specificity: 94.87%). The median of OS was more significant in the high-α-HBDH group (6.4 months) than in the normal-α-HBDH group (12.7 months) (P = 0.023). The median of OS was significant in the high-LDH (> 245 U/L) group at 5.8 months and 12.0 months in the normal-LDH (≤ 245 U/L) group (P = 0.068).

Conclusions

Elevated expression of α-HBDH may indicate a poor prognosis of LC patients. It has a higher sensitivity than LDH and can be used as a potential early biomarker and an independent risk factor predicting the prognosis of LC survival.
TREM-1 triggers necroptosis of macrophages through mTOR-dependent mitochondrial fission during acute lung injury
Authors: Zhong Wen-Jing , Zhang Jun , Duan Jia-Xi , Zhang Chen-Yu , Ma Sheng-Chao , Li Yu-Sheng , Yang Nan-Shi-Yu , Yang Hui-Hui , Xiong Jian-Bing , Guan Cha-Xiang , Jiang Zhi-Xing , You Zhi-Jian , Zhou Yong
Published: March 2023

Background

Necroptosis of macrophages is a necessary element in reinforcing intrapulmonary inflammation during acute lung injury (ALI). However, the molecular mechanism that sparks macrophage necroptosis is still unclear. Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1) is a pattern recognition receptor expressed broadly on monocytes/macrophages. The influence of TREM-1 on the destiny of macrophages in ALI requires further investigation.

Methods

TREM-1 decoy receptor LR12 was used to evaluate whether the TREM-1 activation induced necroptosis of macrophages in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in mice. Then we used an agonist anti-TREM-1 Ab (Mab1187) to activate TREM-1 in vitro. Macrophages were treated with GSK872 (a RIPK3 inhibitor), Mdivi-1 (a DRP1 inhibitor), or Rapamycin (an mTOR inhibitor) to investigate whether TREM-1 could induce necroptosis in macrophages, and the mechanism of this process.

Results

We first observed that the blockade of TREM-1 attenuated alveolar macrophage (AlvMs) necroptosis in mice with LPS-induced ALI. In vitro, TREM-1 activation induced necroptosis of macrophages. mTOR has been previously linked to macrophage polarization and migration. We discovered that mTOR had a previously unrecognized function in modulating TREM-1-mediated mitochondrial fission, mitophagy, and necroptosis. Moreover, TREM-1 activation promoted DRP1Ser616 phosphorylation through mTOR signaling, which in turn caused surplus mitochondrial fission-mediated necroptosis of macrophages, consequently exacerbating ALI.

Conclusion

In this study, we reported that TREM-1 acted as a necroptotic stimulus of AlvMs, fueling inflammation and aggravating ALI. We also provided compelling evidence suggesting that mTOR-dependent mitochondrial fission is the underpinning of TREM-1-triggered necroptosis and inflammation. Therefore, regulation of necroptosis by targeting TREM-1 may provide a new therapeutic target for ALI in the future.
Identification of hub genes and potential molecular mechanisms related to radiotherapy sensitivity in rectal cancer based on multiple datasets
Authors: Zhao Pengfei , Zhen Hongchao , Zhao Hong , Huang Yongjie , Cao Bangwei
Published: March 2023

Background

Radiotherapy resistance is the main cause of low tumor regression for locally advanced rectum adenocarcinoma (READ). The biomarkers correlated to radiotherapy sensitivity and potential molecular mechanisms have not been completely elucidated.

Methods

A mRNA expression profile and a gene expression dataset of READ (GSE35452) were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between radiotherapy responder and non-responder of READ were screened out. Gene ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis for DEGs were performed. Random survival forest analysis was used to identified hub genes by randomForestSRC package. Based on CIBERSORT algorithm, Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) database, Gene set variation analysis (GSVA), enrichment analysis (GSEA), nomogram, motif enrichment and non-coding RNA network analyses, the associations between hub genes and immune cell infiltration, drug sensitivity, specific signaling pathways, prognosis prediction and TF – miRNA regulatory and ceRNA network were investigated. The expressions of hub genes in clinical samples were displayed with the online Human Protein Atlas (HPA).

Results

In total, 544 up-regulated and 575 down-regulated DEGs in READ were enrolled. Among that, three hubs including PLAGL2, ZNF337 and ALG10 were identified. These three hub genes were significantly associated with tumor immune infiltration, different immune-related genes and sensitivity of chemotherapeutic drugs. Also, they were correlated with the expression of various disease-related genes. In addition, GSVA and GSEA analysis revealed that different expression levels of PLAGL2, ZNF337 and ALG10 affected various signaling pathways related to disease progression. A nomogram and calibration curves based on three hub genes showed excellent prognosis predictive performance. And then, a regulatory network of transcription factor (ZBTB6) - mRNA (PLAGL2) and a ceRNA network of miRNA (has-miR-133b) - lncRNA were established. Finally, the results from HPA online database demonstrated the protein expression levels of PLAGL2, ZNF337 and ALG10 varied widely in READ patients.

Conclusion

These findings indicated that up-regulation of PLAGL2, ZNF337 and ALG10 in READ associated with radiotherapy response and involved in multiple process of cellular biology in tumor. They might be potential predictive biomarkers for radiotherapy sensitivity and prognosis for READ.
Understanding the corporate political activity of the ultra - processed food industry in East Asia: a Philippines case study
Authors: Huse Oliver , Reeve Erica , Zambrano Paul , Bell Colin , Peeters Anna , Sacks Gary , Baker Phillip , Backholer Kathryn
Published: March 2023

Background

Evidence is mounting that the ultra - processed food industry seeks to influence food and nutrition policies in ways that support market growth and protect against regulatory threats, often at the expense of public health. However, few studies have explored how this occurs in lower - middle income countries. We aimed to explore if and how the ultra - processed food industry seeks to influence food- and nutrition - related policy processes in the Philippines, a lower - middle income country in East Asia.

Methods

Semi - structured key informant interviews were conducted with ten representatives from the Philippines government and non - government organisations closely involved with nutrition policy making in the Philippines. Interview schedules and data analysis were guided by the policy dystopia model, which we used to identify the instrumental and discursive strategies used by corporate actors to influence policy outcomes.

Results

Informants were of the view that ultra - processed food companies in the Philippines sought to delay, prevent, water - down and circumvent implementation of globally recommended food and nutrition policies by engaging in a range of strategies. Discursive strategies included various tactics in which globally recommended policies were framed as being ineffective or highlighting potential unintended negative impacts. Instrumental strategies included: directly engaging with policymakers; promoting policies, such as industry - led codes and practices, as substitutes for mandatory regulations; presenting evidence and data that industry has generated themselves; and offering gifts and financial incentives to government individuals and agencies.

Conclusions

In the Philippines, the ultra - processed food industry engaged in overt activities designed to influence food and nutrition policy processes in their favour. A range of measures to minimise industry influence on policy processes should be introduced, to ensure that implemented food and nutrition policies align with best practice recommendations.
“Sometimes you have to take the person and show them how”: adapting behavioral activation for peer recovery specialist-delivery to improve methadone treatment retention
Authors: Kleinman Mary B. , Anvari Morgan S. , Bradley Valerie D. , Felton Julia W. , Belcher Annabelle M. , Seitz-Brown C. J. , Greenblatt Aaron D. , Dean Dwayne , Bennett Melanie , Magidson Jessica F.
Published: March 2023

Background

Despite efficacy of medication for opioid use disorder, low-income, ethno-racial minoritized populations often experience poor opioid use disorder treatment outcomes. Peer recovery specialists, individuals with lived experience of substance use and recovery, are well-positioned to engage hard-to-reach patients in treatment for opioid use disorder. Traditionally, peer recovery specialists have focused on bridging to care rather than delivering interventions. This study builds on research in other low-resource contexts that has explored peer delivery of evidence-based interventions, such as behavioral activation, to expand access to care.

Methods

We sought feedback on the feasibility and acceptability of a peer recovery specialist-delivered behavioral activation intervention supporting retention in methadone treatment by increasing positive reinforcement. We recruited patients and staff at a community-based methadone treatment center and peer recovery specialist working across Baltimore City, Maryland, USA. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups inquired about the feasibility and acceptability of behavioral activation, recommendations for adaptation, and acceptability of working with a peer alongside methadone treatment.

Results

Participants (N= 32) shared that peer recovery specialist-delivered behavioral activation could be feasible and acceptable with adaptations. They described common challenges associated with unstructured time, for which behavioral activation could be particularly relevant. Participants provided examples of how a peer-delivered intervention could fit well in the context of methadone treatment, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and specific peer qualities.

Conclusions

Improving medication for opioid use disorder outcomes is a national priority that must be met with cost-effective, sustainable strategies to support individuals in treatment. Findings will guide adaptation of a peer recovery specialist-delivered behavioral activation intervention to improve methadone treatment retention for underserved, ethno-racial minoritized individuals living with opioid use disorder.
Science fiction or clinical reality: a review of the applications of artificial intelligence along the continuum of trauma care
Authors: Hunter Olivia F. , Perry Frances , Salehi Mina , Bandurski Hubert , Hubbard Alan , Ball Chad G. , Morad Hameed S.
Published: March 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning describe a broad range of algorithm types that can be trained based on datasets to make predictions. The increasing sophistication of AI has created new opportunities to apply these algorithms within within trauma care. Our paper overviews the current uses of AI along the continuum of trauma care, including injury prediction, triage, emergency department volume, assessment, and outcomes. Starting at the point of injury, algorithms are being used to predict severity of motor vehicle crashes, which can help inform emergency responses. Once on the scene, AI can be used to help emergency services triage patients remotely in order to inform transfer location and urgency. For the receiving hospital, these tools can be used to predict trauma volumes in the emergency department to help allocate appropriate staffing. After patient arrival to hospital, these algorithms not only can help to predict injury severity, which can inform decision-making, but also predict patient outcomes to help trauma teams anticipate patient trajectory. Overall, these tools have the capability to transform trauma care. AI is still nascent within the trauma surgery sphere, but this body of the literature shows that this technology has vast potential. AI-based predictive tools in trauma need to be explored further through prospective trials and clinical validation of algorithms.
Diabetes mellitus impairs bone regeneration and biomechanics
Authors: Cai Feiyu , Liu Yanshi , Liu Kai , Zhao Ruomei , Chen Wenjiao , Yusufu Aihemaitijiang , Liu Yi
Published: March 2023

Background

With the rise of high-calorie diets and the aging of populations, the incidence of diabetes was increased dramatically in the world and the number of people with diabetes was predicted to rise to 600 million by 2045. Numerous studies have confirmed that several organ systems, including the skeletal system, are seriously affected by diabetes. In that study, the bone regeneration and the biomechanics of the newly regenerated bone were investigated in diabetic rats, which may provide a supplement for previous studies.

Methods

A total of 40 SD rats were randomly divided into the type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) group (n = 20) and the control group (n = 20). Beyond that high fat diet and streptozotocin (STZ) were jointly used in the T2DM group, there were no differences between the two groups in terms of treatment conditions. Distraction osteogenesis was used in all animals for the next experimental observation. The evaluation criterion of the regenerated bone was based on radioscopy (once a week), micro-computed tomography (CT), general morphology, biomechanics (including ultimate load, modulus of elasticity, energy to failure, and stiffness), histomorphometry (including von Kossa, Masson trichrome, Goldner trichrome, and safranin O staining), and immunohistochemistry.

Results

All rats in the T2DM group with fasting glucose levels (FGL, > 16.7 mmol/L) were allowed to complete the following experiments. The results showed that rats with T2DM have a higher body weight (549.01 g ± 31.34 g) than rats in the control group (488.60 g ± 33.60 g) at the end of observation. Additionally, compared to the control group, slower bone regeneration in the distracted segments was observed in the T2DM group according to radiography, micro-CT, general morphology, and histomorphometry. Furthermore, a biomechanical test showed that there was a worse ultimate load (31.01 ± 3.39%), modulus of elasticity (34.44 ± 5.06%), energy to failure (27.42 ± 5.87%), and stiffness (34.55 ± 7.66%) than the control group (45.85 ± 7.61%, 54.38 ± 9.33%, 59.41 ± 10.96%, and 54.07 ± 9.30%, respectively). Furthermore, the decreased expressions of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were presented in T2DM group by immunohistochemistry.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that diabetes mellitus impairs bone regeneration and biomechanics in newly regenerated bone, a phenomenon that might be related to oxidative stress and poor angiogenesis brought on by the disease.
Treatment outcomes for newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve TP53-mutated acute myeloid leukemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Daver Naval G. , Iqbal Shahed , Renard Camille , Chan Rebecca J. , Hasegawa Ken , Hu Hao , Tse Preston , Yan Jiajun , Zoratti Michael J. , Xie Feng , Ramsingh Giridharan
Published: March 2023

Background

TP53 mutations, which are present in 5% to 10% of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), are associated with treatment resistance and poor outcomes. First-line therapies for TP53-mutated (TP53m) AML consist of intensive chemotherapy (IC), hypomethylating agents (HMA), or venetoclax combined with HMA (VEN + HMA).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to describe and compare treatment outcomes in newly diagnosed treatment-naïve patients with TP53m AML. Randomized controlled trials, single-arm trials, prospective observational studies, and retrospective studies were included that reported on complete remission (CR), CR with incomplete hematologic recovery (CRi), overall survival (OS), event-free survival (EFS), duration of response (DoR), and overall response rate (ORR) among patients with TP53m AML receiving first-line treatment with IC, HMA, or VEN + HMA.

Results

Searches of EMBASE and MEDLINE identified 3006 abstracts, and 17 publications describing 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Random-effects models were used to pool response rates, and time-related outcomes were analyzed with the median of medians method. IC was associated with the greatest CR rate of 43%, and CR rates were 33% for VEN + HMA and 13% for HMA. Rates of CR/CRi were comparable for IC (46%) and VEN + HMA (49%) but were lower for HMA (13%). Median OS was uniformly poor across treatments: IC, 6.5 months; VEN + HMA, 6.2 months; and HMA, 6.1 months. For IC, the EFS estimate was 3.7 months; EFS was not reported for VEN + HMA or HMA. The ORR was 41% for IC, 65% for VEN + HMA, and 47% for HMA. DoR was 3.5 months for IC, 5.0 months for VEN + HMA, and was not reported for HMA.

Conclusions

Despite improved responses seen with IC and VEN + HMA compared to HMA, survival was uniformly poor, and clinical benefits were limited across all treatments for patients with newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve TP53m AML, demonstrating a significant need for improved treatment for this difficult-to-treat population.
Long-term administration of Western diet induced metabolic syndrome in mice and causes cardiac microvascular dysfunction, cardiomyocyte mitochondrial damage, and cardiac remodeling involving caveolae and caveolin-1 expression
Authors: Liu I.-Fan , Lin Tzu-Chieh , Wang Shu-Chi , Yen Chia-Hung , Li Chia-Yang , Kuo Hsuan-Fu , Hsieh Chong-Chao , Chang Chia-Yuan , Chang Chuang-Rung , Chen Yung-Hsiang , Liu Yu-Ru , Lee Tsung-Ying , Huang Chi-Yuan , Hsu Chih-Hsin , Lin Shing-Jong , Liu Po-Len
Published: March 2023

Background

Long-term consumption of an excessive fat and sucrose diet (Western diet, WD) has been considered a risk factor for metabolic syndrome (MS) and cardiovascular disease. Caveolae and caveolin-1 (CAV-1) proteins are involved in lipid transport and metabolism. However, studies investigating CAV-1 expression, cardiac remodeling, and dysfunction caused by MS, are limited. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the expression of CAV-1 and abnormal lipid accumulation in the endothelium and myocardium in WD-induced MS, and the occurrence of myocardial microvascular endothelial cell dysfunction, myocardial mitochondrial remodeling, and damage effects on cardiac remodeling and cardiac function.

Methods

We employed a long-term (7 months) WD feeding mouse model to measure the effect of MS on caveolae/vesiculo-vacuolar organelle (VVO) formation, lipid deposition, and endothelial cell dysfunction in cardiac microvascular using a transmission electron microscopy (TEM) assay. CAV-1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression and interaction were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunostaining. Cardiac mitochondrial shape transition and damage, mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane (MAM) disruption, cardiac function change, caspase-mediated apoptosis pathway activation, and cardiac remodeling were examined using TEM, echocardiography, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot assay.

Results

Our study demonstrated that long-term WD feeding caused obesity and MS in mice. In mice, MS increased caveolae and VVO formation in the microvascular system and enhanced CAV-1 and lipid droplet binding affinity. In addition, MS caused a significant decrease in eNOS expression, vascular endothelial cadherin, and β-catenin interactions in cardiac microvascular endothelial cells, accompanied by impaired vascular integrity. MS-induced endothelial dysfunction caused massive lipid accumulation in the cardiomyocytes, leading to MAM disruption, mitochondrial shape transition, and damage. MS promoted brain natriuretic peptide expression and activated the caspase-dependent apoptosis pathway, leading to cardiac dysfunction in mice.

Conclusion

MS resulted in cardiac dysfunction, remodeling by regulating caveolae and CAV-1 expression, and endothelial dysfunction. Lipid accumulation and lipotoxicity caused MAM disruption and mitochondrial remodeling in cardiomyocytes, leading to cardiomyocyte apoptosis and cardiac dysfunction and remodeling.
Safety and efficacy comparison of polyethylene glycol, hemp seed oil, and 5% sugar brine for bowel preparation in older patients: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhu Xing Wang , Yan Jun , Miao Long , He Ying Li , Wang Hai Ping , Li Xun
Published: March 2023

Background

The incidence of colorectal cancer among the middle-aged and elderly is gradually increasing in China. Colonoscopy is an effective method for the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer, and bowel preparation is one of many important factors affecting colonoscopy. Although there are many studies on intestinal cleansers, the results are not ideal. There is evidence that hemp seed oil has certain potential effects in intestinal cleansing, but prospective studies on this topic are still lacking.

Methods

This is a randomized, double-blind, single-center clinical study. We randomly assigned 690 participants to groups each administered 3 L of polyethylene glycol (PEG), 30 mL of hemp seed oil and 2 L of PEG, or 30 mL of hempseed oil, 2 L of PEG, and 1000 mL of 5% sugar brine. The Boston Bowel Preparation Scale was considered the primary outcome measure. We evaluated the interval between consumption of bowel preparation and first bowel movement. Secondary indicators included the time of cecal intubation, detection rate of polyps and adenomas, willingness to repeat the same bowel preparation, whether the protocol was tolerated, and whether there were adverse reactions during bowel preparation and were evaluated after counting the total number of bowel movements.

Discussion

This study aimed to test the hypothesis that hemp seed oil (30 mL) increases the quality of bowel preparation and reduces the amount of PEG. Previously, we found that its combination with 5% sugar brine can reduce the occurrence of adverse reactions.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200057626. Prospectively registered on March 15, 2022
Into the large ears: otitis externa associated with nematodes, mites, and bacteria in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus)
Authors: Bezerra-Santos Marcos Antonio , Mendoza-Roldan Jairo Alfonso , DiGeronimo Peter M. , Ward Erica , Noden Bruce , De Luca Francesca , Fanelli Elena , Valenzano Domenico , Lia Riccardo Paolo , Otranto Domenico
Published: March 2023

Background

The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), which is an endangered species, harbors several parasites. Among the ectoparasites that it harbors, ear mites of the genus Loxanoetus have the potential to cause external otitis, an inflammation that may also be associated with the presence of other microorganisms. We assessed the relationships between ear mites, nematodes, yeast, bacterial rods, and cocci sampled from the ears of captive Asian elephants in Thailand. In addition, we discuss the possibility that dust-bathing behavior may be triggered by ear mite infestation, and that this in turn may lead to contamination of the ears with soil microorganisms.

Methods

Legally owned captive Asian elephants (n = 64) were sampled. Ear swabs were individually collected from both ears and microscopically examined for the presence of mites, nematodes, yeast, bacterial rods, cocci, and host cells. Mites and nematodes were identified to species level using morphological and molecular methods.

Results

Loxanoetus lenae mites were present in 43.8% (n = 28/64) of the animals (19 animals with mites in one ear and nine animals with mites in both ears). Nematodes of the genus Panagrolaimus were detected in 23.4% (n = 15/64) of the animals (10 with nematodes in one ear and five with nematodes in both ears). In adult elephants (Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.0278) and female elephants (Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.0107), the presence of nematodes in both ears was significantly associated with the presence of mites. In addition, higher categorical burdens of nematodes were also significantly associated with the presence of mites (Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.0234) and epithelial cells (Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.0108), and marginally significantly associated with bacterial cocci (Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.0499).

Conclusions

The presence of L. lenae mites in the ear canals of the Asian elephants was significantly associated with the occurrence of other microorganisms, such as soil nematodes, bacteria and yeasts. The presence of mites in their ears may increase the dust-bathing behavior of elephants which, if confirmed, represents a further paradigmatic example of a parasitic infestation affecting animal behavior.

Graphical Abstract
Influence network model uncovers relations between biological processes and mutational signatures
Authors: Amgalan Bayarbaatar , Wojtowicz Damian , Kim Yoo-Ah , Przytycka Teresa M.
Published: March 2023

Background

There has been a growing appreciation recently that mutagenic processes can be studied through the lenses of mutational signatures, which represent characteristic mutation patterns attributed to individual mutagens. However, the causal links between mutagens and observed mutation patterns as well as other types of interactions between mutagenic processes and molecular pathways are not fully understood, limiting the utility of mutational signatures.

Methods

To gain insights into these relationships, we developed a network-based method, named GeneSigNet that constructs an influence network among genes and mutational signatures. The approach leverages sparse partial correlation among other statistical techniques to uncover dominant influence relations between the activities of network nodes.

Results

Applying GeneSigNet to cancer data sets, we uncovered important relations between mutational signatures and several cellular processes that can shed light on cancer-related processes. Our results are consistent with previous findings, such as the impact of homologous recombination deficiency on clustered APOBEC mutations in breast cancer. The network identified by GeneSigNet also suggest an interaction between APOBEC hypermutation and activation of regulatory T Cells (Tregs), as well as a relation between APOBEC mutations and changes in DNA conformation. GeneSigNet also exposed a possible link between the SBS8 signature of unknown etiology and the Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER) pathway.

Conclusions

GeneSigNet provides a new and powerful method to reveal the relation between mutational signatures and gene expression. The GeneSigNet method was implemented in python, and installable package, source codes and the data sets used for and generated during this study are available at the Github site https://github.com/ncbi/GeneSigNet.
Analysis of the magneto-thermoelastic vibrations of rotating Euler–Bernoulli nanobeams using the nonlocal elasticity model
Authors: Abouelregal Ahmed E. , Marin Marin , Askar Sameh S.
Published: March 2023

This paper introduces size-dependent modeling and investigation of the transverse vibrational behavior of rotating thermoelastic nanobeams by means of nonlocal elasticity theory. In the formulation, a model of thermal conductivity with two-phase delays (DPL) was utilized. By incorporating the interactions between phonons and electrons, this model took into account microstructural influences. Also, we have employed the state-space approach and Laplace transform approach to solve the governing equations, which were developed in the context of the nonlocal Eringen model. The nanobeam material is subjected to a changeable temperature field produced by the graphene tape attached to the nanobeam and connected to an electrical source. In addition, the nanobeam material is fully encompassed by an axially applied magnetic field. It has been revealed how coefficients such as the rotational angular velocity of the nanobeam, nonlocal coefficient, voltage, electrical resistance, and applied magnetic field influence its behavior.
Factor structure of the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) in adult men with eating disorders
Authors: Laskowski Nora M. , Halbeisen Georg , Braks Karsten , Huber Thomas J. , Paslakis Georgios
Published: March 2023

Background

Previous investigations on the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) factor structures in men have been restricted to non-clinical settings, limiting conclusions about the factorial validity in men with eating disorders (ED). This study aimed to examine the factor structure of the German EDE-Q in a clinical group of adult men with diagnosed ED.

Methods

ED symptoms were assessed using the validated German version of the EDE-Q. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using principal-axis factoring based on polychoric correlations was conducted for the full sample (N = 188) using Varimax-Rotation with Kaiser-Normalization.

Results

Horn’s parallel analysis suggested a five-factor solution with an explained variance of 68%. The EFA factors were labeled “Restraint” (items 1, 3–6), “Body Dissatisfaction” (items 25–28), “Weight Concern” (items 10–12, 20), “Preoccupation” (items 7 and 8), and “Importance” (items 22 and 23). Items 2, 9, 19, 21, and 24 were excluded due to low communalities.

Conclusions

Factors associated with body concerns and body dissatisfaction in adult men with ED are not fully represented in the EDE-Q. This could be due to differences in body ideals in men, e.g., the underestimation of the role of concerns about musculature. Consequently, it may be useful to apply the 17-item five-factor structure of the EDE-Q presented here to adult men with diagnosed ED.
The co-moderating effect of social support and religiosity in the association between psychological distress and coping strategies in a sample of lebanese adults
Authors: Mahfoud Daniella , Fawaz Mirna , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil
Published: March 2023

Background

Coping involves attempts to mitigate the negative repercussions of stressful situations including psychological distress. The aim of this study was to assess factors affecting coping and examine the role of social support and religiosity in moderating the association between psychological distress and coping strategies in a sample of Lebanese adults.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out between May and July 2022, enrolling 387 participants. The study participants were asked to complete a self-administered survey containing the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support Arabic Version, the Mature Religiosity Scale, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, and the Coping Strategies Inventory-Short Form.

Results

Higher levels of social support and mature religiosity were significantly associated with higher problem- and emotion-focused engagement scores and lower problem- and emotion-focus disengagement scores. In people experiencing high psychological distress, having low mature religiosity was significantly associated with higher problem-focused disengagement, seen at all levels of social support. In people experiencing high psychological distress, having moderate mature religiosity was significantly associated with higher problem-focused disengagement, seen at both moderate and high levels of social support.

Conclusion

Our findings provide novel insight into the moderating effect of mature religiosity in the association between psychological distress and coping strategies affecting adaptive behavior to stress.
How do numerical and literacy stimulations in mother–child interactions relate to early gender differences in mathematical competencies? Empirical results from the NEPS Newborn Cohort study
Authors: Beier Loreen , Blossfeld Hans-Peter
Published: March 2023

While gender differences in mathematical competencies favoring boys are well researched for school and late Kindergarten age, much less is known about their earlier development. Using data from the NEPS Newborn Cohort study, this paper focuses on 4 year-old children and the effects of the numerical and literacy stimulation during mother–child interactions they received at age 2. After controlling for different domain-specific stimulations, structural characteristics of the children’s home learning environment, parental views, important child characteristics, and general educational processes between mother and child, empirical analyses showed small but statistically significant gender differences in mathematical competencies favoring girls. Early domain-specific stimulation in mother–child interactions at age 2 did not offer a good explanation for this math advantage of girls over boys at age 4. Nonetheless, even when 2 year-old girls received numerical stimulation quite similar to that of boys, there was some evidence that girls received a higher input in terms of literacy stimulation, and this is related to the small advantage of girls in mathematical competencies at age 4.
CEUS LI-RADS for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in individuals without LI-RADS-defined hepatocellular carcinoma risk factors
Authors: Huang Zhe , Zhou Ping Ping , Li Shan Shan , Li Kaiyan
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study evaluated the performance of the contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) in patients without LI-RADS-defined hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk factors (RF−).

Methods

Patients with LI-RADS-defined HCC risk factors (RF+) and RF− were enrolled in a retrospective study. Additionally, a prospective evaluation in the same centre was performed as a validation set. The diagnostic performances of the CEUS LI-RADS criteria in RF+ and RF− patients were compared.

Results

Overall, we included 873 patients in the analyses. In the retrospective study, the LI-RADS category (LR)-5 specificities for diagnosing HCC did not differ between the RF+ and RF− groups (77.5% [158/204] vs 91.6% [196/214], P = 0.369, respectively). However, the positive predictive value (PPV) of CEUS LR-5 was 95.9% (162/169) and 89.8% (158/176) in the RF+ and RF− groups, respectively (P = 0.029). In the prospective study, the PPV of LR-5 for HCC lesions was significantly higher in the RF+ group than in the RF− group (P = 0.030). The sensitivity and specificity did not differ between the RF+ and RF− groups (P = 0.845 and P = 0.577, respectively).

Conclusions

The CEUS LR-5 criteria shows clinical value for diagnosis of HCC in patients with and without risks.
Ameliorating effect of blueberry consumption on energy drink-induced testicular damage in rats: histological and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Al-Shaikh Turki M. , Rajeh Nisreen Abdullah
Published: March 2023

Background

Energy drinks prevent fatigue and increase physical and cognitive performance; however, they also inflict toxic effects on the body. Blueberry (BB) possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The present study aimed to assess the possible the therapeutic effects of BB on testicular damage in adult male Wistar albino rats induced by administering the energy drink Code Red.

Results

Thirty adult rats were used in the study, divided into five groups; Group 1 (Control), where rats were fed on distilled water and basal rodent diet only. The other four groups received different energy drink Code Red doses for 8 weeks and BB supplementation for another 6 weeks. Administration of low and high doses of Code Red induced a decline in serum levels of testosterone and antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH), while malondialdehyde (MDA) was significantly increased relative to controls. A low dose of Code Red led to sporadic and scattered appearance of seminiferous tubules with loss of spermatogenic germ cells and marked degeneration of interstitial cells. A high dose of Cod Red exhibited increased degenerative changes in the tubules with highly congested thick vessels in the interstitial tissue. Also, testis from rats consuming either low or high doses of Code Red showed increased caspase-3 immunostaining in seminiferous tubules with early degeneration features. However, the deleterious effect of the administration of Code Red was remarkably ameliorated with the supplementation of BB. A reversal in the mutilative effect of Code Red was observed where with BB supplementation, the histopathology of the testis displayed recovery of most of the seminiferous tubules to normal structure. BB administration in both groups also showed negative or mild immunostaining for caspase-3.

Conclusions

Oral exposure of rats to Code Red produced noticeable testicular damage, especially in high doses, probably due to increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Blueberry administration exhibited therapeutic effects through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties.
Role of non-pulmonary vein triggers in persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Yang So Young , Cha Myung-Jin , Oh Hyeon Jeong , Cho Min Soo , Kim Jun , Nam Gi-Byoung , Choi Kee-Joon
Published: March 2023

Pulmonary vein isolation is an well-established treatment strategy for atrial fibrillation (AF), and it is especially effective for patients with paroxysmal AF. However, the success rate is limited for patients with persistent AF, because non-pulmonary vein triggers which increase AF recurrence are frequently found in these patients. The major non-pulmonary vein triggers are from the left atrial posterior wall, left atrial appendage, ligament of Marshall, coronary sinus, superior vena cava, and crista terminalis, but other atrial sites can also generate AF triggers. All these sites have been known to contain atrial myocytes with potential arrhythmogenic electrical activity. The prevalence and clinical characteristics of these non-pulmonary vein triggers are well studied; however, the clinical outcome of catheter ablation for persistent AF is still unclear. Here, we reviewed the current ablation strategies for persistent AF and the clinical implications of major non-pulmonary vein triggers.
Preference for Turkish ethnic foods in the USA
Authors: Şahin Elanur , Yalım Kaya Serpil
Published: March 2023

This research aims to explain why Turkish ethnic foods are preferred in the USA and the reasons for the success of Turkish restaurants. The research population consists of customers living in the USA who have been to Turkish restaurants. The convenience sampling method and a survey consisting of web surveys and e-mails were used for the data collection from the 13 states of the USA. Analysis, multivariate normal distribution test, factor analysis, and regression analysis were used to analyze the collected data. According to the findings, the reasons for preferring Turkish ethnic foods significantly and positively influence the intention to revisit Turkish restaurants. The kebab was the most popular and well-liked product. In terms of trials, kebab, baklava, Turkish tea, doner, and Turkish coffee follow, respectively. There is an increasing interest in research examining ethnic food consumption, reasons for ethnic food preference, and reasons for choosing ethnic restaurants. However, studies on Turkish cuisine are mostly in Turkey and have been carried out on domestic and foreign tourists. There are not enough studies about Turkish ethnic foods outside of Turkey from the consumer side. This study will be provided valuable information for the literature and practice as restaurant businesses.