bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-throughput detection of potential bacteriocin producers in a large strain library using live fluorescent biosensors
Authors: Otto Sebastian J. , Teichmann Laura , Fante Niklas , Crauwels Peter , Grünberger Alexander , Neddermann Tobias , Riedel Christian U.
Published: July 2024

The global increase in antibiotic resistances demands for additional efforts to identify novel antimicrobials such as bacteriocins. These antimicrobial peptides of bacterial origin are already used widely in food preservation and promising alternatives for antibiotics in animal feed and some clinical setting. Identification of novel antimicrobials is facilitated by appropriate high throughput screening (HTS) methods. Previously, we have described a rapid, simple and cost-efficient assay based on live biosensor bacteria for detection of antimicrobial compounds that act on membrane integrity using the ratiometric pH-dependent fluorescent protein pHluorin2 (pHin2). Here, we use these biosensors to develop an integrated pipeline for high-throughput identification of bacteriocin producers and their biosynthetic gene clusters. We extend the existing portfolio of biosensors by generating pHin2 expressing strains of Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. These strains were characterized, and control experiments were performed to assess heterogeneity of these biosensors in response to known bacteriocins and develop a robust HTS system. To allow detection of compounds that inhibit target bacteria by inhibiting growth without disturbing membrane integrity, the HTS system was extended with a growth-dependent readout. Using this HTS system, we screened supernatants of a total of 395 strains of a collection of lactic acid bacteria. After two rounds of screening 19 strains of the collection were identified that produced antimicrobial activity against Listeria innocua and Listeria monocytogenes. Genomes of confirmed hits were sequenced and annotated. In silico analysis revealed that the identified strains encode between one and six biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) for bacteriocins. Our results suggest that pHin2 biosensors provides a flexible, cheap, fast, robust and easy to handle HTS system for identification of potential bacteriocins and their BGCs in large strain collections.
Non-integrin laminin receptor (LamR) plays a role in axonal outgrowth from chicken DRG via modulating the Akt and Erk signaling
Authors: Mrówczyńska Ewa , Machalica Karolina , Mazur Antonina Joanna
Published: July 2024

37/67 kDa laminin receptor (LamR)/ribosomal protein SA exhibits dual function as both a ribosomal protein and cell surface receptor for laminin. LamR influences critical cellular processes such as invasion, adhesion, and migration when acting as a receptor. Despite the acknowledged importance of LamR/67LR in various cellular processes, its contribution to the peripheral nervous system development is obscure. Thus, this study investigated the biological activity of LamR in peripheral axonal outgrowth in the presence of laminin-1 or Ile-Lys-Val-Ala-Val (IKVAV) peptide, whose important role in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) axonal outgrowth we recently showed. Unexpectedly, we did not observe LamR on the surface of DRG cells or in a conditioned medium, suggesting its intracellular action in the negative regulation of DRG axonal outgrowth. Using C-terminus LamR-targeting IgG, we demonstrated the role of LamR in that process, which is independent of the presence of Schwann cell precursors (SCPs) and is mediated by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk) and Protein kinase B (Akt1/2/3) signaling pathways. Additionally, we show that the action of LamR towards laminin-1-dependent axonal outgrowth is unmasked only when the activity of integrin β1 is perturbed. We believe that modulation of LamR activity provides the basis for its use for inhibiting axon growth as a potential therapeutic agent for regulating abnormal or excessive neurite growth during neurodevelopmental diseases or pathological nerve regeneration.
Progranulin inhibits autophagy to facilitate intracellular colonization of Helicobacter pylori through the PGRN/mTOR/DCN axis in gastric epithelial cells
Authors: Liu Linlin , Xiang Miao , Zhou Jiaqi , Ren Zongjiao , Shi Wenjing , Du Xianhong , Fu Xiaoyan , Li Panpan , Wang Hongyan
Published: July 2024

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the primary risk factor for the progress of gastric diseases. The persistent stomach colonization of H. pylori is closely associated with the development of gastritis and malignancies. Although the involvement of progranulin (PGRN) in various cancer types has been well-documented, its functional role and underlying mechanisms in gastric cancer (GC) associated with H. pylori infection remain largely unknown. This report demonstrated that PGRN was up-regulated in GC and associated with poor prognosis, as determined through local and public database analysis. Additionally, H. pylori induced the up-regulation of PGRN in gastric epithelial cells both in vitro and in vivo. Functional studies have shown that PGRN promoted the intracellular colonization of H. pylori. Mechanistically, H. pylori infection induced autophagy, while PGRN inhibited autophagy to promote the intracellular colonization of H. pylori. Furthermore, PGRN suppressed H. pylori-induced autophagy by down-regulating decorin (DCN) through the mTOR pathway. In general, PGRN inhibited autophagy to facilitate intracellular colonization of H. pylori via the PGRN/mTOR/DCN axis. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of gastric diseases, suggesting PGRN as a potential therapeutic target and prognostic predictor for these disorders.
A narrative position analysis of asylum seekers’ stories about waiting for their permit permission in Norway
Authors: Solbue Vibeke
Published: July 2024

This research aims to understand more about the consequences that living for many years without a residence permit in Norway can have for asylum seekers. As a narrative inquiry study, the research puzzle is asylum seekers in Norway without a resident permit. This article focuses on one family. The data material is collected with different methods, such as field talks, interviews, pictures, and messages on Messenger. The study uses narrative position analysis, and it analyses the narrated story on three different levels. The main results shows that the parents of the family tend to position themselves differently according to whether they are talking about the time before they fled, the time while fleeing or after the fled. When talking about the decision to flee, they present themselves as active subjects with high agency. They have the ability to take active decisions and play an essential role for the family’s life. The analyses reveal three different master narratives; being a parent, being a citizen of a community and being an asylum seeker. I conclude with thoughts about the waiting period as an asylum seeker, and I ask whether Norway respects and ensures human rights. Is the situation of long-term asylum seekers and the condition of the waiting period in different reception centers a form of national abuse of power?
A longitudinal study during scientific teacher training: the association between affective and cognitive dimensions
Authors: Hernández-Barco Míriam A. , Corbacho-Cuello Isaac , Sánchez-Martín Jesús , Cañada-Cañada Florentina
Published: July 2024

Learning processes are undoubtedly linked to affective factors. Motivation, interest, curiosity and emotions have been already detected as the core of learning processes: affective domain modulates learning. In this work, a quantitative longitudinal study (three courses) has been conducted during primary school teacher training. An initial diagnosis of affective variables (emotions and self-efficacy) and scientifical knowledge revealed that prospective teachers claim feeling negative emotions toward physics and chemistry contents whereas these students report low scientific knowledge. Therefore, a metacognitive and emotional program was implemented in order to modify these emotions and to improve learning. After three courses, emotions, self-efficacy and scientific knowledge were assessed again. The results obtained suggest that the implementation of active methodologies for teaching science could promote positive emotions, it could lead prospective teachers to improve their self-efficacy’ perception and promotes their learning. The relationships between the different variables considered in the research were studied, and a significant relationship was found between the affective variables (self-efficacy and emotions) and cognitive variables. Prospective teachers involved in this research reported more positive emotions, an increase in their self-efficacy perception and an improvement in their scientific knowledge. These findings may lead to a deeper understanding of the affective role in science learning and could be extended to other content that also elicits negative emotions.
Reading stories in Arabic: the impact of lexico-phonological and diglossic distance level on comprehension and receptive and productive vocabulary among Arab kindergarten children
Authors: Shahbari-Kassem Abeer , Asli-Badarneh Abeer , Hende Nareman , Roby-Bayaa Amal
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of the lexico-phonological diglossic distance of story reading (a scaffolded storybook intervention, informed by Vygotsky’s theory of scaffolding and fading) on Arabic-speaking preschool children’s comprehension and receptive and productive vocabulary.

Method

The participants were 139 Israeli-Palestinian kindergartners: 71 composed an intervention group and 68 composed a comparison group. The intervention group heard stories gradually from the SpA, identical, cognate, and unique word forms, whereas the comparison group heard traditional stories unrelated to their lexico-phonological distances. Story 1 was read in unique spoken Arabic (SpA) form, stories 2 and 3 were read in 58 and 45% identical and cognate word forms, respectively, and story 4 was read in 70% unique word forms.

Results

The results clearly showed that children’s vocabulary and story understanding was significantly higher after the intervention, especially noticeable in stories that contained a higher proportion of Standard Arabic (StA). Interestingly, the stories told entirely in Spoken Arabic (SpA) were the most effective, yielding the highest scores in both comprehension and vocabulary. Stories that mixed different word forms also performed well, though not as strongly as the SpA stories, while those solely in StA were the least effective.

Conclusion

The findings of the study suggest that scaffolded storybook intervention may enhance the receptive vocabulary and comprehension skills of children. This study shows that, in the context of diglossia, stories should be read to children systematically and gradually according to the lexical-phonological distance of words in the stories.
Computational thinking in primary mathematics classroom activities
Authors: Nordby Siri Krogh , Mifsud Louise , Bjerke Annette Hessen
Published: July 2024

The integration of computational thinking (CT) into primary education is often facilitated using one or more CT tools, such as block-based programming environments and educational robotics. A major concern is that these CT tools often are used to design mathematics classroom activities that focus on CT at the expense of mathematics. Hence, there is a need to investigate more closely how CT tools can be used in primary mathematics classroom activities in ways that enable a stronger focus on the learning of mathematics. Using information ecology as a theoretical lens, this study aims to understand how and why CT tools are integrated into primary mathematics classrooms, and how teachers value the possible contributions of such tools. We draw on multiple interviews with two primary teachers, recordings of planning sessions where classroom activities that include CT were designed, the classroom implementations themselves, and reflective conversations with the teachers after the CT tools were integrated in their mathematics classrooms. A deductive analytical approach to our data revealed that (1) CT tools, to varying degrees, facilitate the learning of mathematics; (2) some CT tools were valued by teachers as a better ‘fit’ than others; and (3) CT tools are primarily used to support the learning of geometry, excluding other mathematical domains. Based on these findings, we suggest that there is a need for more research on the use of different CT tools and their role in the learning of primary mathematics. Moreover, more research is needed to understand how CT tools can be used in topics other than geometry.
Not just phonology: a longitudinal study of dyslexia subtypes based on the distinction between reading accuracy and reading rate
Authors: Jabbour-Danial Maysa , Share David L. , Shalhoub-Awwad Yasmin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Previous cross-sectional investigations by Shany and colleagues have provided evidence of double dissociation among dyslexics between word reading accuracy and (pure) word reading rate. A rate-disabled subtype (with intact reading accuracy) evinced deficits only in rapid naming (RAN); An accuracy-disabled subtype (with intact reading rate) showed deficits in phonological awareness (PA) and morphological awareness (MA) but not RAN.

Method

The present longitudinal study followed 639 Palestinian Arabic-speaking children from preschool to Grade 1 with the aim of determining (1) whether a dissociation between PA C MA and RAN is apparent among pre-literate preschoolers, (2) whether the PA C MA-disabled subgroup constitutes a mild form of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), (3) whether our three disabled subgroups (PA C MA-only, RAN-only, and PA C MA-plus-RAN) can be differentiated on preschool early literacy measures and, (4) whether the three at-risk subgroups develop into selectively rate-disabled, accuracy-disabled, or doubly-disabled (accuracy C rate) readers in Grade 1?

Results

Our findings confirmed the existence of two distinct selectively disabled/at-risk subgroups in preschool: a RAN-only subgroup with intact PA and MA and a PA C MA subgroup with broad impairments across language measures but intact RAN. Grade 1 reading data also confirmed that the RAN-disabled subgroup became slow but accurate readers, whereas the PA C MA subgroup developed into inaccurate and slow readers.

Discussion

Our study indicates partial dissociation between early dyslexia subtypes, each displaying distinct and non-overlapping cognitive-linguistic profiles in preschool. The study also revealed a strong association between reading accuracy and reading rate among beginning readers. This study emphasizes the importance of considering heterogeneity in reading outcomes as well as multiple oral language skills beyond the well-documented role of PA.
Precise and low-complexity method for underwater Doppler estimation based on acoustic frequency comb waveforms
Authors: Li Jie , Qian ZhiWen , Hong DeYue , Zhai JingSheng
Published: July 2024

Ocean observation has advanced rapidly in recent decades due to its crucial role in resource exploration and scientific research, with the Doppler factor being widely utilized. However, the precision of Doppler estimation is frequently constrained by frequency resolution. Traditional frequency estimation methods using single-tone signals face considerable challenges with low accuracy and poor robustness. In response, this paper introduces a novel Doppler-sensitive Acoustic Frequency Comb (AFC) for estimating the Doppler factor, enabling multiple measurements with a single transmission and reception of the signal. The proposed Combined Uneven Uncertainty (CUU) method based on AFC achieves a bias of less than 1.1×10-5, significantly surpassing the optimal result of 3.2×10-5 attained by other frequency estimation methods in the absence of noise. Compared to traditional single-tone methods, the AFC approach improves spectral leakage performance and enhances estimation accuracy without increasing computational complexity. Experimental results demonstrate that the CUU method realizes a difference performance of less than 3.4×10-6, notably lower than that of 3.2×10-5 induced by coherent spectral leakage in fast Fourier Transform (FFT).
Predictive value of D-dimer to albumin ratio for severe illness and mortality in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Xiao Benjie , Yang Zhangwei , Liang Huazheng , Han Yudi , Wu Yinyan , Xiao Jingjing , Bi Yong
Published: July 2024

Objective

Although the impact of the variants of COVID-19 on the general population is diminishing, there is still a certain mortality rate for severe and critically ill patients, especially for the elderly with comorbidities. The present study investigated whether the D-dimer to albumin ratio (DAR) can predict the severity of illness and mortality in COVID-19 patients.

Methods

A total of 1,993 patients with COVID-19 were retrospectively reviewed and the association of DAR with severe or critical illness or death during hospitalization was analyzed. The area under the ROC curve was used to screen the best indicators, Chi-square test, rank sum test, and univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were used to calculate the mean value of difference and adjusted odds ratio (aORs) with their 95% CI, and finally, survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier (KM) curves.

Results

Among 1,993 patients with COVID-19, 13.4% were severely ill, and the mortality rate was 2.3%. The area under the curve (AUC) using DAR to predict severe and critically ill patients was higher than that using other parameters. The best cut-off value of DAR was 21 in the ROC with a sensitivity of 83.1% and a specificity of 68.7%. After adjusting age, gender, comorbidities, and treatment, the binary logistic regression analysis showed that elevated DAR was an independent risk factor for severely ill and mortality of COVID-19 patients. The KM curve suggested that patients with a higher DAR was associated with worse survival. The negative predictive value of DAR (21) for adverse prognosis and death was 95.98 and 99.84%, respectively, with a sensitivity of 80.9 and 95.65%, respectively.

Conclusion

The DAR may be an important predictor for severe illness and mortality in COVID-19 patients.
Multi-omics reveals the phyllosphere microbial community and material transformations in cigars
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Yang Shuai , Gao Qiang , Dai Youqing , Tian Lei , Wen Liang , Yan Honghao , Yang Long , Hou Xin , Liu Peng , Zhang Li
Published: July 2024

The quality of fermented plant leaves is closely related to the interleaf microorganisms and their metabolic activities. In this experiment, a multi-omics analysis was applied to investigate the link between the structural composition of the phyllosphere microbial community and the main metabolites during the fermentation process. It was found that the whole fermentation process of cigar leaves could be divided into three stages, in which the Mid-Stage was the most active period of microbial metabolic activities and occupied an important position. Staphylococcus, Brevundimonas, Acinetobacter, Brevibacterium, Pantoea, Aspergillus, Wallemia, Meyerozyma, Sampaiozyma, Adosporium and Trichomonascus played important roles in this fermentation. Staphylococcus and Aspergillus are the microorganisms that play an important role in the fermentation process. Staphylococcus were strongly correlated with lipids and amino acids, despite its low abundance, Stenotrophomonas is importantly associated with terpene and plays a significant role throughout the process. It is worth noting that Wapper exists more characteristic fungal genera than Filler and is more rapid in fermentation progress, which implies that the details of the fermentation process should be adjusted appropriately to ensure stable quality when faced with plant leaves of different genotypes. This experiment explored the relationship between metabolites and microorganisms, and provided a theoretical basis for further optimizing the fermentation process of plant leaves and developing techniques to improve product quality. Biomarker is mostly present in the pre-fermentation phase, but the mid-fermentation phase is the most important part of the process.
Identification of novel Tet(X6)-Tet(X2) recombinant variant in Elizabethkingia meningoseptica from a bullfrog farm and downstream river in China
Authors: Jin Haobo , Jia Qing , Jin Xi , Zhu Xinlong , Wang Min-Ge , Sun Ruan-Yang , Cui Chaoyue
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The dissemination of strains producing tetracyclines monooxygenase Tet(X) from breeding farms to the natural environment poses a potential threat to public health.

Methods

Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and WGS were performed to identify resistance phenotypes and genotypes. Cloning experiments, sequence alignment, and homology modeling were used to characterize the function and formation mechanisms of the recombinant variant. The mobilization potential of Tet(X) was assessed by collinearity analysis, conjugation experiments, and phylogenetic analysis.

Results

Three tet(X)-producing Elizabethkingia meningoseptica strains were isolated from bullfrog breeding ponds, the sewage outlet, and downstream river in Zhejiang Province, China. These strains carry a novel Tet(X) variant, differing from Tet(X6) by seven residues, and possess the ability to degrade tetracyclines. Interestingly, the novel Tet(X) is a recombinant variant formed by homologous recombination of Tet(X6) and the C-terminal of Tet(X2). Further analysis revealed that Tet(X6) formed several Tet(X) variants, including Tet(X5), through homologous recombination. The novel tet(X) gene is located on a circularizable integrative and conjugative element (ICEEmeChn3), with ISwz1 participating in the recombination of its multi-drug resistance region, potentially facilitating the mobilization and recombination of tet(X) in early hosts. These three strains were clonally transmitted and shared a close genetic relationship (SNP < 62) with a clinically-sourced strain isolated from the same province.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of homologous recombination between Tet(X) variants with differing activities. These clonal strains provide evidence of the transmission of tet(X)-positive strains from aquaculture sewage to the natural environment, highlighting the need to strengthen the monitoring and management of this emerging farming model.
Association between preoperative sarcopenia and postoperative delirium in older patients undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery
Authors: Dong Bo , Yu Dongdong , Zhang Huanhuan , Li Pan , Li Yi , Li Chong , Li Jianli
Published: July 2024

Background

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a usual neurological complication, often leading to poor prognoses. Early identification of high-risk patients is crucial for preventing POD. Sarcopenia is an age-related geriatric syndrome characterized by the loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, and previous studies indicated that preoperative low muscle mass might be a predictor for POD. However, the association between preoperative sarcopenia and POD remains to be fully elucidated. This study was to explore the correlation between preoperative sarcopenia and POD following gastrointestinal cancer surgery in older patients.

Methods

Older patients (≥60 years) undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery were enrolled. Sarcopenia was defined based on the Special Interest Group on sarcopenia of the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (ISarcoPRM), which combined the loss of muscle mass (evaluated by ultrasound) and function (assessed by chair stand test and handgrip strength) before surgery. POD assessment was performed using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) or CAM for the intensive care unit (CAM-ICU) during the first 7 days after surgery or before discharge. Multivariate logistic regression analysis examined the correlation between preoperative sarcopenia and POD. Moreover, the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to analyze the predictive effect of the preoperative sarcopenia in POD.

Results

One hundred and thirty patients were finally included, of which 43 patients presented with sarcopenia before surgery. Twenty-four patients ultimately developed POD, and the incidence was 18.5%. The results of the multivariate analyses demonstrated that preoperative sarcopenia was still independently associated with POD after adjusting for age ≥70 years, preoperative Mini-Mental State Examination score, and intraoperative blood transfusion. The area under the ROC curve of preoperative sarcopenia in predicting POD was 0.680 (95% confidence interval 0.557–0.804).

Conclusion

Preoperative sarcopenia defined by ISarcoPRM criteria was independently associated with POD in geriatric patients after gastrointestinal cancer surgery.
Correlations of erythrocytic oligomer α-synuclein levels with age, sex and clinical variables in patients with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Lu Zhe , Yu Xiaohan , Li Pengjie , Wang Yiming , Deng Yeyun , Li Xin , Wang Chaodong , Yu Shun
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Oligomeric alpha-synuclein in red blood cells (RBC-o-α-Syn) has been shown to be increased in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, factors that affect RBC-o-α-Syn levels remain to be elucidated. The aim of this study is to analyze the correlations between RBC-o-α-Syn levels and the age, sex and different clinical variables of patients with PD.

Methods

167 patients with PD and 119 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled in this study. The patients with PD were diagnosed based on the MDS clinical diagnostic criteria for PD. All participants were evaluated for their clinical characteristics. Western blot analysis was used to examine the molecular sizes of RBC-o-α-Syn. A newly established chemiluminescent immunoassay was used to measure RBC-o-α-Syn levels.

Results

Higher RBC-o-α-Syn levels were detected in PD patients than in HC subjects. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve indicated that a cut off value of 55.29 ng/mg discriminated well between PD patients and HC subjects, with a sensitivity of 67.66% (95% CI: 60.24–74.29%), a specificity of 88.24% (95% CI: 81.22–92.86%), and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.857. The levels of RBC-o-α-Syn were higher in female than male patients (p = 0.033). For different subtypes, the levels of RBC-o-α-Syn were higher in the MIX subtype than the tremor-dominant (TD) PD. In addition, the levels of RBC-o-α-Syn were higher in patients with than without cognitive impairment (p = 0.016), and negatively correlated with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores (r = −0.156, p = 0.044).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that RBC-o-α-Syn levels in patients with PD are higher than those in HC subjects and affected by the sex and the severity of cognitive impairment.
Antimicrobial impact of a propolis/PVA/chitosan composite and its prospective application against methicillin resistance bacterial infection
Authors: Alarjani Khaloud Mohamed , Yehia Hany Mohamed , Badr Ahmed Noah , Ali Hatem S. , Al-Masoud Abdulrahman H. , Alhaqbani Sarah M. , Alkhatib Shahad A. , Rady Ahmed M. , Abdel-Maksoud Mostafa
Published: July 2024

Seriously damaged skin could be infected by methicillin-resistant bacteria, which delays restoration. Propolis has bioactivity linked with its minor components, such as antimicrobials and antioxidants. Active sites in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) can enhance the nano-loading of natural extracts with activity amelioration. Korean propolis extract (KPE) loading to a nanocomposite possibly enhances its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potency. Composites were formed using two PVA/CS structures (1:1; 2:1), and their skin-application appropriateness was determined by mechanical properties, moisture content, water activity, and color. The composite of PVA/CS (1:1) was more practicable for KPE-loading. Increasing KPE concentrations (50, 100, 150, and 200 ng/mL) alters composite bioactivity measured by Fourier transmission infrared (FT-IR). Antibacterial potency of 200 ng KPE/mL was the most effective concentration, followed by 150 ng KPE/mL, against Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Clostridium perfringens. The composite activity was measured as minimum inhibition (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentrations (MBC). At 200 ng KPE/mL, MIC and MBC against MRSA were 14.93 ± 1.21 and 20.21 ± 1.97 mg composite/mL, respectively. Significant inhibition was also recorded for antibiofilm formation, where MRSA growth was not detected after 4 hours of time intervals to the stainless-steel coupon. Compared to planktonic bacteria, the formed barrier of PVA/CS restrained the biofilm matrix formation and supported KPE antimicrobial. The impact of inhibition against biofilm formation depends on two parallel mechanisms (PVA barrier with hydrogen bonds, besides nano-KPE particle penetration into bacterial cells). The KPE-composite application to rats’ wounds shows significantly reduced MRSA infection. The results demonstrate the capability of KPE composite in reducing infection, healing correctly, and restoring hair. The wound swabbed test emphasizes this capacity, in which bacterial growth rate restriction was evaluated using a plate count assay. The results recommended 150 ng KPE/mL loading into CS/PVA (1:1) as an effective anti-pathogenic treatment, particularly against the MRSA infection of wounds.
Efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of sleep disorders among patients with Parkinson’s disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Tan Wei-qiang , Liu Qing , Cen Ming-jun , Leong Ian I. , Pan Zhao-quan , Liao Mu-xi , Zhuang Li-xing
Published: July 2024

Objective

To systematically evaluate the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as an adjunct therapy for treating sleep disorders in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

We conducted comprehensive searches in eight databases from inception through September 2023, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP), and Wanfang Database. The objective was to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating HBOT’s effectiveness in alleviating sleep disorder symptoms in PD patients as an adjunct therapy. Literature screening and data extraction were independently executed by the authors. Meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.3 software, and publication bias and sensitivity analyses were assessed using Stata 17.0 software.

Results

Seven RCTs involving 461 participants were included. The findings revealed that the addition of HBOT significantly enhanced sleep efficiency (MD = 15.26, 95% CI [10.89, 19.63], p < 0.00001), increased time in bed (MD = 69.65, 95% CI [43.01, 96.30], p < 0.00001), total sleep time (MD = 75.87, 95% CI [25.42, 126.31], p = 0.003), slow-wave sleep (SWS) time (MD = 6.14, 95% CI [3.95, 8.34], p < 0.00001), and rapid eye movement sleep (REM) time (MD = 4.07, 95% CI [2.05, 6.08], p < 0.0001), and reduced awakening frequency (MD = −11.55, 95% CI [−15.42, −7.68], p < 0.00001) and sleep latency (MD = −6.60, 95% CI [−9.43, −3.89], p < 0.00001). Additionally, significant improvements were observed in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (MD = −2.52, 95% CI [−2.85, −2.18], p < 0.00001), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) (MD = −2.90, 95% CI [−3.34, −2.47], p < 0.00001), Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part III (UPDRS III) (MD = −1.32, 95% CI [−2.16, −0.47], p = 0.002), and Hoehn and Yahr grading (H-Y grading) (MD = −0.15, 95% CI [−0.28, −0.01], p = 0.03).

Conclusion

The current meta-analysis supports the efficacy of HBOT as an adjunct therapy in managing sleep disorders in PD patients. It is recommended for PD patients experiencing sleep disturbances.

Systematic review registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, identifier: CRD42023462201.
Apathy in subarachnoid hemorrhage: study protocol for a 1-year follow-up study
Authors: Tang Wai Kwong , Wong Kwok Chu George
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Apathy is a frequent and debilitating condition among subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) survivors. Few studies have evaluated apathy in SAH, and none have examined the course of the condition, predictors of persistent apathy, or its impact on functional outcomes. The proposed study will examine, for the first time, the 12-month course of apathy and its impact on functional outcomes in the largest cohort of SAH survivors to date.

Methods and analysis

The current study is designed as a prospective cohort study with a duration of 36 months. We will recruit 240 participants. A trained research assistant will assess apathy using the Apathy Evaluation Scale 3 months after SAH. Patients’ level of functioning, comorbidity, global cognitive functioning, and depressive symptoms will be assessed. All SAH patients will participate in follow-up assessments of apathy and functioning at 9 (T2) and 15 months (T3) post-SAH or at 6 and 12 months after the first assessment. Predictors of persistent apathy and the impact of apathy on functional outcomes will be examined.

Discussion

This will be the first large-scale 1-year follow-up study of apathy in SAH survivors. The findings will provide valuable data to advance our understanding of the clinical course of apathy in this population. Moreover, the results will have clinical relevance by providing essential information to patients, caregivers, and clinicians; promoting the evaluation of apathy; and facilitating the development of prevention strategies, rehabilitation programs, and therapeutic options.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Joint Chinese University of Hong Kong-New Territories East Cluster Clinical Research Ethics Committee (CREC Ref. No.: 2023.339) on 3 October 2023. The findings of this study will be shared through publication in a peer-reviewed journal, presentations at relevant conferences, and dissemination through social media platforms.
The abnormalities of brain function in females with primary insomnia: a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Zhang Haiyi , Jie Pingping , Liu Yingchun , Wu Lunxin , Wang Oucheng , Zhang Yong , Fang Jiliang , Wang Quan , Zhao Jie , Liu Yong
Published: July 2024

Background

The neuropathologic mechanism of primary insomnia (PI) of females remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the features of amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) in females with PI using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and then explore the abnormalities of functional connectivity (FC).

Materials and methods

A total of 39 female PI patients and 31 female healthy controls (HC) were enrolled in the study. The sleep condition was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and their depressive symptom was evaluated using the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-24). The rs-fMRI was once conducted for every subject. ReHo, ALFF, and ROI-based FC were used to analyze the changes of brain function.

Results

ALFF values were increased in the Cerebelum_4_5_L, as well as decreased ALFF in the bilateral Frontal_Sup_Medial (SFGmed), Angular_L (ANG.L), Parietal_Inf_R (IPL.R), SupraMarginal_R (SMG.R), and Postcentral_R (PoCG.R). ReHo values were increased in the Temporal_Pole_Mid_R (TPOsup.R), as well as decreased ReHo in the Insula_R (INS.R), Frontal_Inf_Oper_R (ORBinf.R), Putamen_R (PUT.R), Rolandic_Oper_R (ROL.R), bilateral Cingulum_Post (PCG), bilateral Frontal_Sup_Medial (SFGmed), bilateral anterior cingulate and paracingulate gyri (ACG), and the bilateral precuneus (PCUN). Across the entire brain, there was a decline in the FC between Angular_R and Frontal_Sup_Medial_L.

Conclusion

Alterations in brain regions of female patients with PI involved multiple functional networks, including the default mode network, the salience network, the central executive network, and the limbic network. Reduced coordination between functional networks may be an important mechanism for insomnia and may lead to reduced cognitive function and decision-making ability.
Striatal GABA levels correlate with risk sensitivity in monetary loss
Authors: Kondo Hirohito M. , Oba Takeyuki , Ezaki Takahiro , Kochiyama Takanori , Shimada Yasuhiro , Ohira Hideki
Published: July 2024

Background

Decision-making under risk is a common challenge. It is known that risk-taking behavior varies between contexts of reward and punishment, yet the mechanisms underlying this asymmetry in risk sensitivity remain unclear.

Methods

This study used a monetary task to investigate neurochemical mechanisms and brain dynamics underpinning risk sensitivity. Twenty-eight participants engaged in a task requiring selection of visual stimuli to maximize monetary gains and minimize monetary losses. We modeled participant trial-and-error processes using reinforcement learning.

Results

Participants with higher subjective utility parameters showed risk preference in the gain domain (r = −0.59) and risk avoidance in the loss domain (r = −0.77). Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) revealed that risk avoidance in the loss domain was associated with γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the ventral striatum (r = −0.42), but not in the insula (r = −0.15). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we tested whether risk-sensitive brain dynamics contribute to participant risky choices. Energy landscape analyses demonstrated that higher switching rates between brain states, including the striatum and insula, were correlated with risk avoidance in the loss domain (r = −0.59), a relationship not observed in the gain domain (r = −0.02).

Conclusions

These findings from MRS and fMRI suggest that distinct mechanisms are involved in gain/loss decision making, mediated by subcortical neurometabolite levels and brain dynamic transitions.
Case Report: Bradycardia in neonatal lupus: differential diagnosis between atrioventricular block and premature atrial contractions with block
Authors: Liu Wei-Li , Peng Ying-Hsuan
Published: July 2024

Neonatal lupus may be associated with severe cardiac conduction problems, including high-degree or complete atrioventricular (AV) block, necessitating immediate pacemaker implantation during the neonatal period. However, cardiac manifestations of neonatal lupus may extend beyond AV block. Our case was a full-term female neonate, who presented with fetal arrhythmia and bradycardia with a heart rate of approximately 70–75 beats per minute after birth. Neonatal lupus was diagnosed later due to positive maternal and neonatal anti-SSA/Ro antibody. High-degree AV block was considered initially but bigeminy premature atrial contractions (PACs) with block was confirmed through a detailed evaluation of an electrocardiogram, which demonstrated unfixed PP intervals and fixed RR intervals. Atrial tachycardia (AT) developed when the neonate was 23 days old. The key point that differentiates high-degree AV block from PACs with block is the PP interval. The PP interval is fixed in high-degree AV block and unfixed in PACs with block. Careful differential diagnosis is required in neonates with bradycardia because it may lead to very different management. Our case presents a good illustration of why these arrhythmias need to be differentiated. Furthermore, our case may be the first of neonatal lupus with AT.
The association between continuous polypharmacy and hospitalization, emergency department visits, and death in older adults: a nationwide large cohort study
Authors: Chae Jungmi , Cho Ho Jin , Yoon Sang-Heon , Kim Dong-Sook
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate the association between continuous polypharmacy and hospitalization, emergency department (ED) visits, and death.

Methods

This retrospective study utilized 6,443,896 patients aged between 65 and 84 years of National Health Insurance claims data from 2016 to 2018. Polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy were defined as the concurrent use of 5 or more and 10 or more medications, respectively, for durations of both 90 days or more and 180 days or more within a 1-year observation period. The primary outcome measures included all-cause hospitalization, ED visits, and mortality. Multiple logistic regression models were used adjusting for patients’ general characteristics, comorbidities, and history of hospitalization or ED visits.

Results

Among 2,693,897 patients aged 65–84 years who had used medicines for 180 days or more (2,955,755 patients taking medicines for 90 days or more), the adverse outcomes were as follows: 20.5% (20.3%) experienced hospitalization, 10.9% (10.8%) visited the ED, and 1% (1%) died, respectively. In patients who exhibited polypharmacy for more than 180 days, the adjusted odds ratio of adverse outcomes was 1.32 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.31–1.33) for hospitalization, 1.32 (95% CI, 1.31–1.33) for ED visits, 1.63 (95% CI, 1.59–1.67) for death, and that in excessive polypharmacy patients for more than 180 days was 1.85 for hospitalization, 1.92 for ED visits, and 2.57 for death, compared to non-polypharmacy patients.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that polypharmacy in older adults might lead to negative health consequences. Thus, interventions to optimize polypharmacy may need to be implemented.
Single and combined strategies for mesenchymal stem cell exosomes alleviate liver fibrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical animal models
Authors: Zhou Xiaolei , Xu Yan , Wang Xuesong , Lu Wenming , Tang Xingkun , Jin Yu , Ye Junsong
Published: July 2024

Background: The efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in treating liver fibrosis has been supported by various clinical studies. However, stem cell transplantation is limited in clinical application due to its low survival rate, low liver implantation rate, and possible carcinogenicity. Recently, there has been increasing interest in the use of MSC-exos due to their widespread availability, low immunogenicity, and non-carcinogenic properties. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of MSC-exos in treating liver fibrosis and preventing progression to end-stage liver disease.

Objective: This study aimed to systematically investigate the efficacy of MSC-exos single administration in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis and the combined advantages of MSC-exos in combination with drug therapy (MSC-exos-drugs).

Methods: Data sources included PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, which were built up to January 2024. The population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study design (PICOS) principle was used to screen the literature, and the quality of the literature was evaluated to assess the risk of bias. Finally, the data from each study’s outcome indicators were extracted for a combined analysis.

Results: After screening, a total of 18 papers (19 studies) were included, of which 12 involved MSC-exos single administration for the treatment of liver fibrosis and 6 involved MSC-exos-drugs for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Pooled analysis revealed that MSC-exos significantly improved liver function, promoted the repair of damaged liver tissue, and slowed the progression of hepatic fibrosis and that MSC-exos-drugs were more efficacious than MSC-exos single administration. Subgroup analyses revealed that the use of AD-MSC-exos resulted in more consistent and significant efficacy when MSC-exos was used to treat hepatic fibrosis. For MSC-exos-drugs, a more stable end result is obtained by kit extraction. Similarly, infusion through the abdominal cavity is more effective.

Conclusion: The results suggest that MSC-exos can effectively treat liver fibrosis and that MSC-exos-drugs are more effective than MSC-exos single administration. Although the results of the subgroup analyses provide recommendations for clinical treatment, a large number of high-quality experimental validations are still needed.

Systematic Review Registration: CRD42024516199.
Surface roughness measurement using microscopic vision and deep learning
Authors: Shang Chuhan , Lieping Zhang , Gepreel Khaled A. , Yi Huaian
Published: July 2024

Due to the self-affine property of the grinding surface, the sample images with different roughness captured by the micron-scale camera exhibit certain similarities. This similarity affects the prediction accuracy of the deep learning model. In this paper, we propose an illumination method that can mitigate the impact of self-affinity using the two-scale fractal theory as a foundation. This is followed by the establishment of a machine vision detection method that integrates a neural network and correlation function. Initially, a neural network is employed to categorize and forecast the microscopic image of the workpiece surface, thereby determining its roughness category. Subsequently, the corresponding correlation function is determined in accordance with the established roughness category. Finally, the surface roughness of the workpiece was calculated based on the correlation function. The experimental results demonstrate that images obtained using this lighting method exhibit significantly enhanced accuracy in neural network classification. In comparison to traditional lighting methods, the accuracy of this method on the micrometer scale has been found to have significantly increased from approximately 50% to over 95%. Concurrently, the mean squared error (MSE) of the surface roughness calculated by the proposed method does not exceed 0.003, and the mean relative error (MRE) does not exceed 5%. The two-scale fractal geometry offers a novel approach to image processing and machine learning, with significant potential for advancement.
Colonization by orchid mycorrhizal fungi primes induced systemic resistance against necrotrophic pathogen
Authors: Pujasatria Galih Chersy , Miura Chihiro , Yamaguchi Katsushi , Shigenobu Shuji , Kaminaka Hironori
Published: July 2024

Orchids and arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) plants evolved independently and have different structures and fungal partners, but they both facilitate nutrient uptake. Orchid mycorrhiza (OM) supports orchid seed germination, but unlike AM, its role in disease resistance of mature plants is largely unknown. Here, we examined whether OM induces systemic disease resistance against a necrotrophic pathogen in a similar fashion to AM. We investigated the priming effect of mycorrhizal fungi inoculation on resistance of a terrestrial orchid, Bletilla striata, to soft rot caused by Dickeya fangzhongdai. We found that root colonization by a compatible OM fungus primed B. striata seedlings and induced systemic resistance against the infection. Transcriptome analysis showed that priming was mediated by the downregulation of jasmonate and ethylene pathways and that these pathways are upregulated once infection occurs. Comparison with the reported transcriptome of AM fungus–colonized rice leaves revealed similar mechanisms in B. striata and in rice. These findings highlight a novel aspect of commonality between OM and AM plants in terms of induced systemic resistance.