bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of green mining practices on corporate sustainable development: role of green innovation, green organizational commitment, and corporate social responsibility
Authors: Jianchun Yu
Published: December 2024

Background

China is the top global consumer, importer, and producer of coal, accounting for about half of the world’s totals. Yet despite all this progress in renewable energy, coal still provided 56 percent of China’s energy consumption, and the country has the fourth-largest reserve globally. However, coal mining also releases enormous amounts of methane, a very potent greenhouse gas. Additionally, it contributes over 70% to the total CO2 within the country.

Purpose

This study evaluates the effect of green mining practices on green innovation, employee green organizational commitment, and corporate sustainable development in the mining industry of China.

Methodology

The data was collected through an online survey and distributed all over China. For this research, 511 responses were analyzed using SmartPLS 4.1.

Results

The results indicate that green marketing practices have a direct positive and significant effect on green innovation (β = 0.493), organizational commitment (β = 0.476), and organizational sustainable development (β = 0.0.195). The study proves that green innovation significantly affects both organizations’ sustainable development (β = 0.262) and their commitment (β = 0.0.293). Additionally, green innovation and organizational commitment significantly mediate the relationship between green marketing practices and corporate sustainable development. Moreover, the study observed that corporate social responsibility significantly moderated the influence of green mining practices on green innovation, organizational commitment, and corporate sustainable development. Cumulatively green mining practices, direct and indirect effects of green innovation and organizational commitment, and moderation of corporate social responsibility explained 67.2% variance in the corporate sustainable development.

Conclusion

The study results further attest that green practices and corporate social responsibility play an essential role in underpinning sustainability and innovation in the mining sector. They also provide important lessons for policymakers and other industrial stakeholders on improving sustainable development.
Understanding the perceptions and reactions to a monthly oral contraceptive capsule with end users and healthcare providers in Bangladesh, Senegal, and Zimbabwe
Authors: El-Sahn Moushira , Elliott Rose , El-Sahn Mona , Lucas Jeff , Santos Trisha Wood
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Unintended pregnancy is a global public health challenge. Many contraceptive methods are available to end users, but non-use and discontinuation due to health concerns or side effects, particularly related to unpredictable or undesirable menstrual bleeding, are common. Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) often have regular bleeding patterns compared to other hormonal contraceptives but require daily adherence. To address the issues of bleeding-related side effects and daily adherence, researchers are developing a monthly oral contraceptive (MOC) containing the same hormones as common OCPs. We studied women's and healthcare providers’ (HCPs’) perceptions of the MOC technology with the primary goal of providing feedback on product attributes to inform early design decisions.

Methods

Our study consisted of a qualitative phase with in-person in-depth interviews (IDIs) with a total of 60 women of reproductive age in three regions in three countries (Bangladesh, Senegal, and Zimbabwe) and quantitative surveys, which took place after the qualitative phase, via face-to-face computer-assisted interviews of a total of 1,825 women in 17 regions in these three countries. We conducted 96 IDIs and 632 quantitative interviews with HCPs in one urban area per country.

Results

Women's and HCPs’ perceptions of MOC product attributes were assessed and included a focus on potential menstrual changes and possible reasons for discontinuation. Overall, the most appealing attribute of an MOC was its 1-month duration. Women and HCPs alike preferred regular, monthly menstruation. Any unpredictable or irregular bleeding, including heavy bleeding or amenorrhea, would be a reason to discontinue an MOC if it were to have those attributes.

Discussion

Overall, an MOC has a high and broad level of appeal amongst all the groups of women and HCPs who participated in the study and has a strong value proposition for important contraceptive needs including convenient duration, ease of use, discretion, and acceptable side effects. This appeal assumes that the experience of using an MOC would be very similar to that of daily OCPs except for dose timing. Future research on a hormonal MOC should include an exploration of women's tolerance and acceptability of potential side effects, particularly regarding bleeding, to validate its value proposition.
The impact of AI as a mediator on effective communication: enhancing interaction in the digital age
Authors: Ateeq Ali , Milhem Marwan , Alzoraiki Mohammed , Dawwas Mohammed I. F. , Ali Shafeeq Ahmed , Yahia Al Astal Ahmad
Published: December 2024

This research examines the impact of methods of communication and artificial intelligence on the effectiveness of communication in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bahrain. A quantitative research approach was used to gather data from 211 employees using structured questionnaires. The study used convenience sampling and deployed SmartPLS4 for Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and SPSS for descriptive statistics analysis. The study examined the impact of different communication strategies (conventional vs. AI-assisted) on communication efficacy. AI was included as a mediating variable in this analysis. The results indicate that communication methods have a substantial impact on AI (β = 0.725, T-value = 27.612, p-value = 0.000) and communication effectiveness (β = 0.439, T-value = 9.150, p-value = 0.000). Artificial intelligence (AI) has a role in connecting methods of communication and effectiveness of communication, acting as a mediator with an indirect impact of 0.286. The mediation effect indicates that AI amplifies the influence of communication methods on effectiveness. The study’s findings indicate that the combination of AI with strong communication methods greatly improves the effectiveness of communication. Practical consequences include the need for firms to allocate resources toward well-designed methods of communication, ongoing staff education, and the smooth incorporation of artificial intelligence capabilities. Further investigation is needed to examine other settings and additional elements that influence and support these results, in order to confirm and broaden the scope of this study.
Nervonic acid alleviates radiation-induced early phase lung inflammation by targeting macrophages activation in mice
Authors: Wang Chenlin , Wu Yanan , Liu Chao , Li Yang , Mi Song , Yang Xiaofan , Liu Tong , Tian Yuanjing , Zhang YingYing , Hu Pingping , Qiao Lili , Deng Guodong , Liang Ning , Sun Jinyue , Zhang Yan , Zhang Jiandong
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients receiving chest radiation therapy, or exposed to high radiation levels due to accidental nuclear leakage are at risk of radiation-induced lung injury (RILI). In innate immunity, macrophages not only exhibit certain radiation tolerance but also play an important regulatory role in the whole pathological process. Nervonic acid (NA), a long-chain unsaturated fatty acid found in nerve tissue, plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal tissue growth and repair. However, the influence of NA on RILI progression has yet to be examined.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the role of macrophage subtypes in RILI and whether NA can alleviate RILI. Specifically, whether NA can alleviate RILI by targeting macrophages and reducing the levels of inflammatory mediators in mouse models was assessed.

Methods

Mice RILI model was employed with 13 Gy whole thoracic radiation with or without administration of NA. Various assays were performed to evaluate lung tissue histological changes, cytokine expression, IκB-α expression and the number and proportion of macrophages.

Results

Radiation can lead to the release of inflammatory mediators, thereby exacerbating RILI. The specific radiation dose and duration of exposure can lead to different dynamic changes in the number of subpopulations of lung macrophages. NA can affect the changes of macrophages after irradiation and reduce inflammatory responses to alleviate RILI.

Conclusion

Macrophages play a significant role in the integrated pathological process of lung injury after irradiation which shows a dynamic change with different times. NA can protect lung tissues against the toxic effects of ionizing radiation and is a new potential functional component for targeting macrophages.
Early detection of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis: construction of a multifactorial prediction model
Authors: Wang Chunxiao , Wang Sihan , Liu Liu , Wang Jiao , Cai Xiaoce , Zhang Miao , Sun Xiaoying , Li Xin
Published: December 2024

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) affects approximately one in five individuals with psoriasis. Early identification of patients with psoriasis at risk of developing PsA is crucial to prevent poor prognosis. We established a derivation cohort comprising 1,661 patients with psoriasis from 49 hospitals. Clinical and demographic variables ascertained at hospital admission were screened using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator and logistic regression to construct a prediction model and a new web-based calculator. Ultimately, six significant independent predictors were identified: history of unexplained swollen joints (odds ratio [OR]: 5.814, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 3.304–10.117; p< 0.001), history of arthritis (OR: 3.543, 95% CI: 1.982–6.246; p< 0.001), history of unexplained swollen and painful fingers or toes (OR: 2.707, 95% CI: 1.463–4.915; p = 0.001), nail involvement (OR: 1.907, 95% CI: 1.235–2.912; p = 0.003), hyperlipidemia (OR: 4.265, 95% CI: 0.921–15.493; p = 0.042), and prolonged topical use of glucocorticosteroids (OR: 1.581, 95% CI: 1.052–2.384, p = 0.028). The web-based calculator derived from this model can assist clinicians in promptly determining the probability of developing PsA in patients with psoriasis, thereby facilitating improved clinical decision-making.
Mitochondria-associated programmed cell death: elucidating prognostic biomarkers, immune checkpoints, and therapeutic avenues in multiple myeloma
Authors: Gao Gongzhizi , Miao Jiyu , Jia Yachun , He Aili
Published: December 2024

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy characterized by the abnormal proliferation of plasma cells. Mitochondrial dysfunction and dysregulated programmed cell death (PCD) pathways have been implicated in MM pathogenesis. However, the precise roles of mitochondria-related genes (MRGs) and PCD-related genes (PCDRGs) in MM prognosis remain unclear.

Methods

Transcriptomic data from MM patients and healthy controls were analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Candidate genes were selected by intersecting DEGs with curated lists of MRGs and PCDRGs. Univariate Cox, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), multivariate Cox, and stepwise regression analyses identified prognostic genes among the candidates. A risk model was constructed from these genes, and patients were stratified into high- and low-risk groups for survival analysis. Independent prognostic factors were incorporated into a nomogram to predict MM patient outcomes. Model performance was evaluated using calibration curves, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Finally, associations between prognostic genes and immune cell infiltration/drug responses were explored.

Results

2,192 DEGs were detected between MM and control samples. 30 candidate genes were identified at the intersection of DEGs, 1,136 MRGs, and 1,548 PCDRGs. TRIAP1, TOMM7, PINK1, CHCHD10, PPIF, BCL2L1, and NDUFA13 were selected as prognostic genes. The risk model stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups with significantly different survival probabilities. Age, gender, ISS stage, and risk score were independent prognostic factors. The nomogram displayed good calibration and discriminative ability (AUC) in predicting survival, with clinical utility demonstrated by DCA. 9 immune cell types showed differential infiltration between MM and controls, with significant associations to risk scores and specific prognostic genes. 57 drugs, including nelarabine and vorinostat, were predicted to interact with the prognostic genes. Ultimately, qPCR in clinical samples from MM patients and healthy donors validated the expression levels of the seven key prognostic genes, corroborating the bioinformatic findings.

Conclusion

Seven genes (TRIAP1, TOMM7, PINK1, CHCHD10, PPIF, BCL2L1, NDUFA13) involved in mitochondrial function and PCD pathways were identified as prognostic markers in MM. These findings provide insights into MM biology and prognosis, highlighting potential therapeutic targets.
Inflammasomes and idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Sun Rui , Chu Jiyan , Li Ping
Published: December 2024

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are a group of systemic autoimmune diseases characterized by muscle weakness and elevated serum creatine kinase levels. Recent research has highlighted the role of the innate immune system, particularly inflammasomes, in the pathogenesis of IIM. This review focuses on the role of inflammasomes, specifically NLRP3 and AIM2, and their associated proteins in the development of IIM. We discuss the molecular mechanisms of pyroptosis, a programmed cell death pathway that triggers inflammation, and its association with IIM. The NLRP3 inflammasome, in particular, has been implicated in muscle fiber necrosis and the subsequent release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), leading to inflammation. We also explore the potential therapeutic implications of targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome with inhibitors such as glyburide and MCC950, which have shown promise in reducing inflammation and improving muscle function in preclinical models. Additionally, we discuss the role of caspases, particularly caspase-1, in the canonical pyroptotic pathway associated with IIM. The understanding of these mechanisms offers new avenues for therapeutic intervention and a better comprehension of IIM pathophysiology.
Phage-resistance alters Lipid A reactogenicity: a new strategy for LPS-based conjugate vaccines against Salmonella Rissen
Authors: Cuomo Paola , Medaglia Chiara , Casillo Angela , Gentile Antonio , Fruggiero Carmine , Corsaro Maria Michela , Capparelli Rosanna
Published: December 2024

Salmonella enterica serovar Rissen (S. Rissen) is an emerging causative agent of foodborne diseases. The current emergence of antibiotic resistance makes necessary alternative therapeutic strategies. In this study, we investigated the potential of a phage-resistant strain of S. Rissen (RR) as a tool for developing an effective lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-based vaccine. The LPS O-antigen is known to play critical roles in protective immunity against Salmonella. However, the high toxicity of the LPS lipid A moiety limits its use in vaccines. Here, we demonstrated that the acquisition of bacteriophage resistance by S. Rissen leads to structural modifications in the LPS structure. Using NMR and mass spectrometry, we characterized the LPS from phage-resistant strains as a smooth variant bearing under-acylated Lipid A portions (penta- and tetra-acylated forms). We then combined RT-qPCR and NMR-based metabolomics to explore the effects of phage resistance and LPS modification on bacterial fitness and virulence. Finally, we conducted in vivo studies to determine whether lysogeny-induced remodeling of LPS affects the host immune response. Results revealed that the under-acylated variant of LPS from RR attenuates the inflammatory response in BALB/c mice, while eliciting a specific antibody response that protects against S. Rissen (RW) infection. In conclusion, our findings suggest that phage resistance, through lipid A modification, may offer a novel strategy for reducing LPS toxicity, highlighting its potential as a promising biological approach for developing LPS-based vaccines against Salmonella infections.
Multi-omics analysis and experiments uncover the function of cancer stemness in ovarian cancer and establish a machine learning-based model for predicting immunotherapy responses
Authors: Liu Zhibing , Han Lei , Ji Xiaoyu , Wang Xiaole , Jian Jinbo , Zhai Yujie , Xu Yingjiang , Wang Feng , Wang Xiuwen , Ning Fangling
Published: December 2024

Background

The heterogeneity of cancer makes it challenging to predict its response to immunotherapy, highlighting the need to find reliable biomarkers for assessment. The sophisticated role of cancer stemness in mediating resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is still inadequately comprehended.

Methods

Genome-scale CRISPR screening of RNA sequencing data from Project Achilles was utilized to pinpoint crucial genes unique to Ovarian Cancer (OV). Thirteen publicly accessible OV transcriptomic datasets, seven pan-cancer ICI transcriptomic cohorts, and one single-cell RNA dataset from melanoma patients treated with PD-1 were utilized to scale a novel cancer stemness index (CSI). An OV single-cell RNA dataset was amassed and scrutinized to uncover the role of Small Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein Polypeptide E (SNRPE) in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Vitro experiments were performed to validate the function of SNRPE in promoting proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer.

Results

Through the analysis of extensive datasets on ovarian cancer, a specific gene set that impacts the stemness characteristics of tumors has been identified and we unveiled a negative correlation between cancer stemness, and benefits of ICI treatment in single cell ICI cohorts. This identified gene set underpinned the development of the CSI, a groundbreaking tool leveraging advanced machine learning to predict prognosis and immunotherapy responses in ovarian cancer patients. The accuracy of the CSI was further confirmed by applying PD1/PD-L1 ICI transcriptomic cohorts, with a mean AUC exceeding 0.8 for predicting tumor progression and immunotherapy benefits. Remarkably, when compared to existing immunotherapy and prognosis markers, CSI exhibited superior predictive capabilities across various datasets. Interestingly, our research unveiled that the amplification of SNRPE contribute to remodeling the TME and promoting the evasion of malignant cells from immune system recognition and SNRPE can server as a novel biomarker for predicting immunotherapy response.

Conclusions

A strong relationship between cancer stemness and the response to immunotherapy has been identified in our study. This finding provides valuable insights for devising efficient strategies to address immune evasion by targeting the regulation of genes associated with cellular stemness.
Systemic treatment type is not associated with abnormal post-treatment noninvasive liver stiffness measurement in psoriasis
Authors: Xiao Yue , Gao Jingya , Wang Yiyi , Hao Dan , Yan Wei , Wen Dingke , Zeng Siyi , Yang Shiqi , Shi Yingyu , Li Wei
Published: December 2024

Background

Psoriasis is commonly associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, raising concerns about the hepatic effects of systemic treatments on psoriasis and its comorbid conditions. This study evaluates liver stiffness measurement (LSM) alterations and identifies predictors of abnormal LSM in psoriatic patients following systemic treatments, including biologics and methotrexate.

Methods

This prospective cohort study is based on the PSOWCH database (Psoriasis Cohort of West China Hospital). We initially included psoriatic patients who had undergone sound touch elastography (STE), then recruited patients who had STE before systemic treatment and reassessed them after at least six months. Three treatment subgroups were formed (interleukin inhibitors, tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, and methotrexate), classifying post-treatment STE outcomes using threshold values of 6.5 kPa and 10.3 kPa.

Results

Among the 52 recruited patients, overall STE values significantly increased during follow-up. Univariate regression analysis showed that age, gender, psoriasis severity, psoriatic arthritis status, and current treatment type were not significantly correlated with abnormal STE outcomes at cutoff values of 6.5 kPa and 10.3 kPa. In the multivariate model, body mass index (BMI) was identified as a risk factor for post-treatment STE ≥ 6.5 kPa (odds ratio [OR], 1.26; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.60, P=0.031).

Conclusions

This exploratory study reveals that systemic treatment type is not associated with abnormal post-treatment LSM. However, a significant association exists between BMI and abnormal LSM outcomes. These findings highlight the critical importance of BMI management in therapeutic interventions for psoriasis.
Advances in biomarkers for immunotherapy in small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Hui , Zhao Peiyan , Tian Lin , Lu Yuanhua , Wang Xinyue , Shao Wenjun , Cheng Ying
Published: December 2024

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a refractory cancer with rapid growth and high aggressiveness. Extensive-stage SCLC is initially sensitive to chemotherapy; however, drug resistance and recurrence occur rapidly, resulting in a poor survival outcome due to lack of subsequently efficient therapy. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) generated a new landscape of SCLC treatment and significantly prolonged the survival of patients. However, the unselected immunotherapy restrains both beneficiary population and responsive period in SCLC compared to the other tumors. The complex tumor origin, high heterogeneity, and immunosuppressive microenvironment may disturb the value of conventional biomarkers in SCLC including programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 and tumor mutation burden. Transcriptional regulator–based subtypes of SCLC are current research hotspot, revealing that Y (I) subtype can benefit from ICIs. Additionally, molecules related to immune microenvironment, immunogenicity, epigenetics, and SCLC itself also indicated the therapeutic benefits of ICIs, becoming potential predictive biomarkers. In this review, we discussed the advances of biomarkers for prediction and prognosis of immunotherapy, promising directions in the future, and provide reference and options for precision immunotherapy and survival improvement in patients with SCLC.
Next-generation adjuvant systems containing furfurman drives potent adaptive immunity and host defense as a foot-and-mouth disease vaccine adjuvant
Authors: Kim Hyeong Won , Shin Seokwon , Park So Hui , Park Jong-Hyeon , Kim Su-Mi , Lee Yoon-Hee , Lee Min Ja
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Many countries use commercial foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccines to prevent FMD pandemics, but these vaccines have disadvantages, such as repeated vaccinations due to the short persistence of antibody (Ab) titers and incomplete host defense despite high Ab titers. To address these shortcomings, we aimed to develop a novel FMD vaccine containing furfurman as an adjuvant.

Method

To demonstrate the efficacy of the test vaccine, adaptive immunity was evaluated by measuring Ab and neutralizing Ab titers and host defense against viral infections in experimental and target animals. In addition, the expression levels of cytokines [interferon (IFN)α, IFNβ, IFNγ, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, and IL-12p40] were evaluated at the early stages of vaccination to confirm the simultaneous induction of cellular and humoral immune responses induced by the test vaccine.

Result

The groups that received vaccine containing furfurman showed a strong early, mid-term, and long-term immune response and host defense against viral infections compared to the control groups. The significant upregulation observed in cytokine levels in the furfurman group compared to those in the control groups strongly suggest that the test vaccine strengthens cellular immune response and effectively induces a humoral immune response.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that furfurman, as an FMD vaccine adjuvant, achieves long-lasting immunity and host defense against viral infections by eliciting potent cellular and humoral immune responses. Therefore, our findings contribute to the design of next-generation FMD vaccines and highlight the potential application of furfurman as an adjuvant for other viral diseases.
Latitudinal trends in the biomass allocation of invasive Spartina alterniflora: implications for salt marsh adaptation to climate warming
Authors: Chen Yasong , Wu Fujia , Wang Yueyue , Guo Yangping , Kirwan Matthew L. , Liu Wenwen , Zhang Yihui
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Biomass allocation between aboveground and belowground pools in salt marshes has distinct effects on salt marsh stability, and is influenced by climate warming and reproductive investment. However, the lack of studies on the effect of latitudinal variations in reproductive investments and biomass allocation in salt marshes makes it difficult to explore mechanisms of marsh plant growth to climate warming across geographical scales. The rapid invasion of the salt marsh grass Spartina alterniflora into lower latitude marshes around the world provides an opportunity to investigate biomass allocation and reproductive investment across latitudes, helping to understand how salt marshes respond to climate warming.

Methods

Therefore, we investigated aboveground biomass (AGB), belowground biomass (BGB), total biomass, sexual reproduction traits (inflorescence biomass, flowering culm), asexual reproduction traits (shoot number, rhizome biomass), among S. alterniflora at 19 sites in 10 geographic locations over a latitudinal gradient of ~2000 km from Dongying (37.82°N, high latitude) to Danzhou (19.73°N, low latitude) in China.

Results

The AGB, BGB, and total biomass displayed hump shaped relationships with latitude, but the BGB: AGB ratio decreased with increasing latitude (i.e. increased linearly with temperature). Interestingly, we found that the BGB: AGB ratio negatively correlated with sexual reproductive investment, but positively correlated with asexual reproductive investment.

Discussion

While conceptual and numerical models of salt marsh stability and carbon accumulation often infer responses based on aboveground biomass, our study suggests that salt marsh responses to climate warming based on aboveground biomass and static allocations may bias estimates of future salt marsh production driven by climate warming.
Effects of polysaccharide fermentation with Bacillus coagulans on growth, antioxidant and immunity of Macrobrachium nipponense (riental river prawn)
Authors: Wang Yachao , Liang Yilei , Yu Jing , Li Zhengzhong , Wang Wei , Jiang Li , Liu Bo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

In recent years, with the continuous expansion of aquaculture areas worldwide and the outbreak of diseases, the use of antibiotics and chemical drugs is limited. Plant polysaccharides have received widespread attention due to their multiple bioactivities. However, research on the combined use of plant polysaccharides and Bacillus coagulans is still insufficient. Therefore, this study focuses on the impact of B.coagulans-fermented polysaccharides on Macrobrachium nipponense.

Methods

An 8-week feeding trial was conducted with seven groups: the control group (CT) and the Bacillus coagulans group (N),Atractylodes macrocephala polysaccharides group (NB), Saposhnikovia divaricata polysaccharides group (NF), Mannose group (NG), Astragalus polysaccharides group (NH) and Yu ping feng polysaccharides group (NP).

Results and discussion

The research results indicate that compared to the CT, the levels of AST and ALT were reduced in the group of N, NF and NG. The NF showed a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and total superoxide dismutase (SASC) levels. The NP had a significant increase in T-AOC and superoxide anion scavenging ability. The levels of total protein (TP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the group of NG, NB, and NP were significantly higher than those in the CT and N. Compared to the CT, the expression of Toll in the NP group, Myd88 and Dorsal in the NH group, and IMD and Relish in the NF and NP group were all significantly increased. Conversely, the expression of IMD in the NB and NG group and Relish in the NG group was significantly decreased. Additionally, the survival rate in the NP group was significantly higher than in other groups, and the NB group enhanced the weight gain of M.nipponense compared to the N. In summary, B.coagulans fermented with Yupingfeng polysaccharides and Astragalus polysaccharides can significantly enhance the antioxidant and immune capabilities of M.nipponense.
Acupuncture and moxibustion as adjunctive therapy for postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction in gastric cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Ou Yangxu , Lin Dezhi , Ni Xixiu , Feng Chengzhi , Rong Jing , Gao Xiaoyu , Yu Yang , Liu Xinrui , Zhang Zhiyang , Xiao Wang , Tang Zili , Zhao Ling
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of different acupuncture and moxibustion techniques as adjunctive therapy in addressing Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (PGD) associated with gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

Eight medical databases were comprehensively searched for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) as of October 2024. A network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed using frequency models, combining all available direct and indirect evidence from RCTs. Time of first bowel sounds (TFBS) was set as the primary outcome, and time to first defecation (TFD) and time to first flatus (TFF) were set as the secondary outcomes. All outcomes were ranked using surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) probabilities to determine a hierarchy of treatments, and the probability that the intervention will be in one of the top ranks increases with a higher SUCRA value.

Results

With 28 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 2,459 patients, 18 of which involved adjuvant acupuncture treatments. NMA based on SUCRA rankings showed that routine care (RC) with acupuncture (ACU), with acupressure (ACUP), with moxibustion (MOX) and acupoint injection (AI) were the top-ranked therapies for shortening TFBS and TFF in patients with GC compared with RC; additionally, RC + MOX + CUP and RC + MOX were the relatively best therapies for TFD. No serious adverse events were reported in the studies assessing the safety of adjunctive acupuncture therapy. Our study found that ST36, ST37, ST39, and PC6 were the most commonly used acupoints for adjuvant acupuncture treatments in treating PGD associated with GC.

Conclusion

Acupuncture and moxibustion, when used as supplementary therapies, demonstrated efficacy and relative safety in managing PGD associated with GC. The recommended order for adjunctive acupuncture- and moxibustion-related therapies for PGD in patients with GC, in terms of conservativeness, is as follows: RC + ACU, RC + MOX + AI, RC + ACUP, RC + MOX + CUP and RC + MOX. Despite their inclusion, the overall methodological quality of the studies was poor, which need for further high-quality randomized controlled trials to support existing results.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO.
Melatonin stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques: an association that should be clinically exploited
Authors: Reiter Russel J. , Sharma Ramaswamy , Romero Alejandro , Simko Fedor , Dominguez-Rodriguez Alberto , Cardinali Daniel P.
Published: December 2024

Atherosclerosis is the underlying factor in the premature death of millions of humans annually. The cause of death is often a result of the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque followed by the discharge of the associated molecular debris into the vessel lumen which occludes the artery leading to ischemia of downstream tissue and to morbidity or mortality of the individual. This is most serious when it occurs in the heart (heart attack) or brain (stroke). Atherosclerotic plaques are classified as either soft, rupture-prone, or hard, rupture resistant. Melatonin, the production of which diminishes with age, has major actions in converting soft to hard plaques. Experimentally, melatonin reduces the ingrowth of capillaries from the tunica media into the plaque relieving pressure on the plaque, reducing intraplaque hemorrhage and limiting the size of the necrotic core. Moreover, melatonin promotes the formation of collagen by invading vascular smooth muscle cells which strengthen the plaque crown making it resistant to rupture. Melatonin is also a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent such that is reduces oxidative damage to tissues associated with the plaque and limits inflammation both of which contribute to plaque cap weakness. Additional benefits of melatonin relative to atherosclerosis is inhibition of adhesion molecules on the endothelial cell surface, limiting the invasion of monocytes into the arterial intima, and reducing the conversion of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages to pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages. Given the high physiological and financial cost of cardiac and neural ischemic events, this information should be given high priority in the clinical setting.
ANCA-associated vasculitis presenting with progressive binocular manifestations: a case report and literature review
Authors: Xi Lei , Cui Ying , Li Zhilian
Published: December 2024

This report primarily describes a rare case of an elderly male patient who initially presented with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) in the left eye and was ultimately diagnosed with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) -associated vasculitis involving the eyes, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. However, due to irregular treatment, both eyes developed progressive ocular manifestations later. This article emphasizes the importance of actively screening for and treating underlying conditions in cases of CRAO. A comprehensive assessment of the patient’s medical history, systemic condition, and ocular examination can aid in early diagnosis, slow disease progression, and reduce mortality.
The effect of workplace environment on coal miners' gut microbiota in a mouse model
Authors: Li Lei , Zhi Mei , Wang Siwei , Deng Jun , Cai Qing , Feng Dayun
Published: December 2024

The coal mine workplace environment is a significant factor in inducing occupational health issues, such as intestinal dysfunction in coal miners. However, the mechanism by which the coal mine workplace environment induces intestinal dysfunction is still unclear. Therefore, we applied the Coal Mine Workplace Environment Biological Simulation (CEBS) model which was previously constructed to detect the intestinal pathological manifestations and changes in the gut microbiota of mice from the perspectives of intestinal function, tissue morphology, and cell molecules. CEBS mice showed increased fecal water content, shortened colon length, significant activation of MPO+ and CD11b+ numbers, and significant changes in IL-1b, IL-6, and IL-12 expression levels. In addition, we also found an imbalance in the proportions of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Lactobacillus, and Parabacteroides in CEBS mice, resulting in significant changes in gut microbial diversity. After intervention with compound probiotics, the intestinal function of CEBS + Mix mice was improved and inflammation levels were reduced. Results indicated that stress in the coal mine workplace environment can lead to intestinal dysfunction and inflammatory damage of the colon and use of compound probiotics can improve intestinal dysfunction in CBES mice. In our study, we revealed that there is a correlation between coal mine workplace environment and diversity disorders of gut microbiota. This discovery has enhanced the relevant theories on the causes of intestinal dysfunction in coal miners and has suggested a new approach to intervention.
Bactericidal efficacy of low dose gaseous ozone against clinically relevant multidrug-resistant bacteria
Authors: Banerjee Bob , Thompson Christine , Nizet Victor , Bjånes Elisabet
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose a significant challenge in acute care hospitals, particularly in intensive care units, due to persistent environmental contamination despite existing disinfection protocols and manual cleaning methods. Current disinfection methods are labor-intensive and often ineffective against multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, highlighting the need for new, automated, hands-free approaches.

Methods

This study evaluates the bactericidal efficacy of low concentrations of gaseous ozone (5 ppm) against clinically relevant and often MDR bacteria under various concentrations, contact times, temperatures, and environmental conditions.

Results

We observed a 3 log10-fold reduction in Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium and a 1–2 log10-fold reduction in group A Streptococcus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus upon ozone exposure. The bactericidal effect was dose-dependent, with no significant difference between single and repeated exposures. Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity had minimal impact on low-dose ozone efficacy, with slightly improved bacterial killing at colder temperatures and higher humidity levels. Gaseous ozone also showed significant bactericidal activity against the broad range of Gram-positive and -negative MDR clinical isolates.

Discussion

These findings highlight the potential of low-dose gaseous ozone as a versatile, effective, and hands-free disinfectant for healthcare and other settings. Further research is needed to establish long-term safety and efficacy guidelines for its use in occupied spaces and to explore potential synergy with other contemporary disinfection strategies.
Molecular characterization and antimicrobial susceptibility for 62 isolates of Bordetella pertussis from children
Authors: He Baohua , Jia Zhaoyi , Zheng Fei , Zhang Wenchao , Duan Suxia , Wang Leyu , Zhang Haixia , Zhang Hongbin , Wang Ruoxuan , Gao Yuan , Sun Yinqi
Published: December 2024

Background

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by Bordetella pertussis (BP). Despite global control of pertussis cases through the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), there has been a significant increase in the incidence of pertussis in recent years, characterized by a “resurgence” in developed countries with high immunization rates as well as a comparable reemergence in certain areas of China. We aim to explore the genotypes and antimicrobial susceptibility of circulating BP from children in Hebei.

Study design

Children diagnosed with BP infection from 2019 to 2020 in Hebei, China were enrolled. We performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) detection, mltilocus sequence typing (MLST), multilocus antigen sequence typing (MAST), multilevel genome typing (MGT). A total of 313 international BP genomes were selected for comparison to examine the genomic diversity and evolutionary traits of Chinese strains within a global framework.

Results

Sixty-two individuals were identified with BP infection via culture, yielding a positive rate of 15.62% (62/397) for BP. Two phylogenetic groups were identified, each carrying a dominating genotype. The two vaccine strains, CS and Tohama I, exhibited a distant relationship to these two groups. This study identified 56 erythromycin-resistant isolates, 55 azithromycin-resistant isolates, 58 sulfamethoxazole-sensitive isolates, and 53 cefotaxime-sensitive isolates. All BP isolates were sensitive to levofloxacin, amoxicillin, ceftriaxone, and meropenem. Meanwhile, all erythromycin-resistant strains, which belonged to lineage I and MGT2 sequence type 7 (ST7), shared the ptxP1 gene and contained the 23S rRNA A2047G mutation. The major MAST was prn1/ptxP1/ptxA1/fim3-1/fim2-1 (75.81%). All 62 BP strains were divided into 1, 2, 3, 14, and 52 types at the MGT1, MGT2, MGT3, MGT4, and MGT5 levels, respectively.

Conclusion

This work showed that there may be a link between antimicrobial resistance and alterations in specific molecular types, and the isolates showed a clear change when compared with the vaccine strain and that selection pressure from both antibiotics and immunization may be responsible for driving Chinese BP evolution, and necessitate a reevaluation of the immunization strategy and the development of novel vaccines in China to halt the resurgence and medication resistance of pertussis.
Proteomic analysis of the Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum SS14 strain: coverage and comparison with the Nichols strain proteome
Authors: Houston Simon , Marshall Steven , Gomez Alloysius , Cameron Caroline E.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Strains of the syphilis spirochete, Treponema pallidum ssp. pallidum, group into one of two deep-branching clades: the Nichols clade or the globally dominant Street Strain 14 (SS14) clade. To date, in-depth proteome-wide analyses have focused on Nichols clade strains.

Methods

The T. pallidum SS14 clade reference strain (SS14) proteome was characterized via protein detection and quantification analyses using mass spectrometry, and comparison was made to the Nichols clade reference strain (Nichols) proteome.

Results

Approximately two thirds of all proteins from T. pallidum SS14 were detected and quantitated, allowing confirmation of expression of 259 proteins for the first time in this strain, including 11 known/putative outer membrane proteins (OMPs). SS14 and Nichols proteome comparative analyses demonstrated similar protein expression/quantification profiles between the two strains, and showed that inter-strain amino acid sequence differences are located primarily within predicted surface-exposed regions in 16 known/putative OMPs.

Discussion

This study provides the first comparative analyses of the proteomes from the T. pallidum SS14 and Nichols strains. The findings inform syphilis vaccine design by confirming the expression of known/predicted OMP vaccine candidates in SS14 treponemes, and via the finding that most inter-strain variable residues found in OMPs are predicted to be located in surface-exposed, host-facing regions of these proteins.
Contribution of social activity participation to the relationship between sensory impairment, physical performance and cognitive decline: a longitudinal study in China
Authors: Lei Lei , Zhou Yinuo , Ye Lizhen , Yang Yanfang
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study examined the impact of sensory impairment (hearing and/or vision) combined with poor physical performance on cognitive decline and assessed whether social activity participation mediated this relationship.

Methods

Multilevel models were used to explore the relationships between sensory impairment, physical performance, their combination, and cognitive decline. A multilevel mediation model analyzed the mediating effect of social activity participation. The study included 10,149 adults aged 45 and older (mean age 53.84) from five waves (2011–2020) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). The exposure variable, body function (BF), was categorized into six groups based on sensory impairment and physical performance. Cognitive function was measured using an adapted Chinese Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).

Results

Compared to BF group 1 (normal physical performance without sensory impairment), individuals in BF group 4 (low physical performance without sensory impairment) (β = −0.670, P < 0.001), BF group 5 (low physical performance with single sensory impairment) (β = −1.029, P < 0.001), and BF group 6 (low physical performance with dual sensory impairment) (β = −1.630, P < 0.001) showed worse cognitive function. Only BF group 4 (β = −0.670, P < 0.001) had a faster cognitive decline. Mediation analysis revealed a significant indirect effect of social activity participation on cognitive function in BF group 4 (β = −0.03, P < 0.01, mediation proportion: 4.32%).

Conclusion

The combined effect of sensory impairment and low physical performance on cognitive decline may be accumulative, and social activity participation could mitigate this effect. Prioritizing social activity participation is crucial for health professionals and policymakers.
Quantitative hemodynamics of draining veins in brain arteriovenous malformation: a preliminary study based on computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Ma Long , Chen Yu , Chen Pingting , Ma Li , Yan Debin , Li Ruinan , Li Zhipeng , Zhang Haibin , Han Heze , Yuan Kexin , Li Runting , Lin Fa , Zhao Yuanli , Chen Xiaolin
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study initiated a preliminary computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-based study to investigate the relationship between quantitative hemodynamics of arteriovenous malformation (AVM) draining veins and rupture.

Methods

The quantitative hemodynamics of AVM draining veins were generated from computed tomography angiography (CTA)-based steady-state CFD models. Morphological and hemodynamic parameters were compared between the ruptured and unruptured groups. The boundary conditions of the drainage vein were obtained from quantitative digital subtraction angiography (QDSA). The draining veins were divided into 15 consecutive segments to analyze the spatial distribution of the hemodynamic parameters by linear regression analysis.

Results

From 11 AVMs, it was revealed that morphological parameters of drainage veins in ruptured and unruptured AVMs were similar. The intravascular pressure of the draining vein in the ruptured AVMs was significantly higher than those of the unruptured AVMs (pressure average: p = 0.006; pressure maximum: p = 0.045), and the WSS of the posterior segment was higher in ruptured AVMs (p = 0.045). WSS of draining veins in ruptured AVMs showed a linear increase trend with segmenting (R = 0.731, p < 0.001), and ruptured AVMs were more likely to be accompanied by high-velocity segments in the draining vein (40.0% vs. 14.7%, p = 0.037), especially in the posterior segment (p = 0.011).

Conclusion

The draining veins of ruptured AVMs had significantly higher intravascular pressure and posterior segment WSS. WSS showed a linear increase with segmentation in ruptured AVMs, and they often had more high-velocity segments in the draining vein, especially in the posterior segment.