bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of fluorescent lateral flow immunoassay for SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM and IgG based on aggregation-induced emission carbon dots
Authors: Ju Jian , Zhang Xinyu , Li Lin , Regmi Sagar , Yang Guoqiang , Tang Shixing
Published: October 2022

Understanding the dynamic changes in antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of the vaccine and the stage for the recovery of the COVID-19 disease. A rapid and accurate method for the detection of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies is still urgently needed. Here, we developed a novel fluorescent lateral flow immunoassay (LFA) platform for the detection of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM and IgG by the aggregation-induced emission carbon dots conjugated with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SSP). The aggregation-induced emission carbon dots (AIE-CDs) are one of the best prospect fluorescent probe materials for exhibiting high emission efficiency in both aggregate and solid states. The AIE-CDs were synthesized and displayed dual fluorescence emission, which provides a new perspective for the design of a high sensitivity testing system. In this work, the novel LFA platform adopted the AIE carbon dots, which are used to detect SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM and IgG conveniently. Furthermore, this sensor had a low LOD of 100 pg/ml. Therefore, this newly developed strategy has potential applications in the areas of public health for the advancement of clinical research.
Genomic analyses of the scorpion mud turtle (Kinosternon scorpioides) (Linnaeus, 1766) in insular and continental Colombia: Evidence for multiple conservation and taxonomic units
Authors: Caballero Susana , Martínez Jose Gregorio , Morales-Betancourt Monica A. , Bolaños Nacor , Lasso Carlos A.
Published: October 2022

The turtle genus Kinosternon is widespread with at least 25 species distributed from Mexico to northern Argentina. The taxonomy of this genus is controversial and requires a full revision using both morphological and molecular approaches. In this study, we did a genomic analysis on the species Kinosternon scorpioides distributed in insular and continental Colombia in order to define conservation units. Total DNA was extracted from 24 tissue samples and RADseq genotyping analysis was done. In addition, the intron R35 was amplified and sequenced for a subset of samples. A total of 35,507 SNPs combined with 1,047 bp of the intron were used for spatiotemporal colonization pattern reconstruction and phylogenetic analyses. In addition, SNPs were used for population structure inferences and allele frequency-based analyses. Reciprocal monophyly, significant differences in allele frequencies (Fst = 0.32 - 0.78), and evidence of reproductive isolation (no admixture/geneflow), indicate long-term divergence between groups (2-8 MYA), possibly due to geographical barriers. Four Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) were defined within our samples. One ESU was represented by the insular subspecies K. scorpioides albogulare, found on San Andrés island, and three ESUs were defined for the subspecies K. s. scorpioides in continental Colombia: one trans-Andean, found in northwestern Colombia (Caribbean region) and two cis-Andean, found in eastern and southeastern Colombia in the Orinoco and Amazon regions, respectively. Colonization of this species occurred from an ancestral area on South of Central America region (~ 8.43 MYA), followed by an establishing of current populations on San Andrés Island and then, in the continent. First, in the Colombian Caribbean, next, in the Orinoco, and more recently, in the Amazon. We hypothesize that the emergence of the Panamá Isthmus, as well as the final uplift of the North Eastern Andes and Vaupes Arch, were key event leading to the differentiation of these ESUs. For management and conservation purposes, each of these ESUs should be considered as a separate management unit. A full revision of the taxonomy of the genus Kinosternon is warranted.
Autophagy in striated muscle diseases
Authors: Li Haiwen , Zhang Lingqiang , Zhang Lei , Han Renzhi
Published: October 2022

Impaired biomolecules and cellular organelles are gradually built up during the development and aging of organisms, and this deteriorating process is expedited under stress conditions. As a major lysosome-mediated catabolic process, autophagy has evolved to eradicate these damaged cellular components and recycle nutrients to restore cellular homeostasis and fitness. The autophagic activities are altered under various disease conditions such as ischemia-reperfusion cardiac injury, sarcopenia, and genetic myopathies, which impact multiple cellular processes related to cellular growth and survival in cardiac and skeletal muscles. Thus, autophagy has been the focus for therapeutic development to treat these muscle diseases. To develop the specific and effective interventions targeting autophagy, it is essential to understand the molecular mechanisms by which autophagy is altered in heart and skeletal muscle disorders. Herein, we summarize how autophagy alterations are linked to cardiac and skeletal muscle defects and how these alterations occur. We further discuss potential pharmacological and genetic interventions to regulate autophagy activities and their applications in cardiac and skeletal muscle diseases.
New R2-CHA2DS2-VASc score predicts no-reflow phenomenon and long-term prognosis in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Zhang Qinyao , Hu Meirong , Ma Shumei , Niu Tiesheng
Published: October 2022

Aims

Evaluating the prognostic validity of new R2-CHA2DS2-VASc score for no-reflow phenomena and long-term prognosis in patients following primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Materials and methods

From January 2017 to December 2018, a total of 401 patients with STEMI were continuously enrolled. According to the cut-off value, the patients were separated into two groups: R2-CHA2DS2-VASc < 3 group (n = 275) and R2-CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 3 group (n = 126).

Results

With a sensitivity of 52.6% and a specificity of 73.1%, the optimal cut-off value for predicting no-reflow is R2-CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 3. R2-CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 3 as the ideal cut-off value for predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.781 [95% Confidence interval (CI): 0.738–0.801, P 0.001], a sensitivity of 50%, and a specificity of 91.1%. The incidence of MACE, death from all causes, and worsening heart failure was greater in the R2-CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 3 group, although there was no significant difference in the incidence of repeated revascularisation procedures following PCI between the two groups. R2-CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 3 was also an independent predictor of MACE (hazard ratio = 2.48, 95% confidence interval CI: 1.33–4.62, P = 0.04). Moreover, this score has a greater sensitivity (66.7%) and specificity (88.7%) for predicting the progression of heart failure.

Conclusion

R2-CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 3 was independently associated with no-reflow phenomenon and poor clinical outcomes for patients in STEMI after primary PCI.
Cardiovascular toxicity associated with angiogenesis inhibitors: A comprehensive pharmacovigilance analysis based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System database from 2014 to 2021
Authors: Wang YanFeng , Cui Chanjuan , Ren Xiayang , Dong Xinran , Cui Wei
Published: October 2022

Background

The profiles of cardiovascular toxicity associated with angiogenesis inhibitors, including intravenous monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and oral tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) remain poorly elucidated in real-world settings. This pharmacovigilance analysis aimed to comprehensively investigate the frequency, spectrum, timing, and outcomes of cardiovascular toxicities associated with angiogenesis inhibitors and to explore the differences in such patterns between mAbs and TKIs.

Methods

Disproportionality analysis was performed by leveraging reports from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database from 2014 to 2021. Cardiovascular adverse events (AEs) were grouped into nine narrow categories using the Standardized Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) Queries (SMQs). Reporting odds ratio (ROR) and information components (ICs) were calculated with statistical shrinkage transformation formulas and a lower limit of 95% confidence interval (CI) for ROR (ROR025) > 1 or IC (IC025) > 0, with at least three reports being considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 757,577 reports of angiogenesis inhibitors and 70,668 (9.3%) reports of cardiovascular AEs were extracted. Significant disproportionality was detected in angiogenesis inhibitors for cardiovascular AEs (IC025/ROR025 = 0.35/1.27). Bevacizumab (31.8%), a mAb, presented the largest number of reports, followed by sunitinib (12.4%), a TKI. Hypertension (SMQ) was detected with the strongest signal value (IC025/ROR025 = 1.73/3.33), followed by embolic and thrombotic events (SMQ) (IC025/ROR025 = 0.32/1.26). Hypertension showed the shortest time to onset with a median (interquartile range) value of 23 (8, 69) days, while embolic and thrombotic events had the longest value of 51 (16, 153) days. Notably, hypertension presented the lowest proportions of death and life-threatening events (10.9%), whereas embolic and thrombotic events posed the highest (29.3%). Furthermore, both mAbs (IC025/ROR025 = 0.47/1.39) and TKIs (IC025/ROR025 = 0.30/1.23) showed increased cardiovascular AEs. Hypertension was detected in both agents (IC025/ROR025 = 1.53/2.90 for mAbs and IC025/ROR025 = 1.83/3.56 for TKIs) with a shorter time to onset of 17 (6, 48) days for TKIs than mAbs of 42 (14, 131) days. By contrast, embolic and thrombotic events were detected for mAbs (IC025/ROR025 = 0.90/1.87) without TKI (IC025/ROR025 = −0.08/0.95).

Conclusion

Angiogenesis inhibitors were associated with increased cardiovascular toxicity with a discrepancy between intravenous mAbs and oral TKIs, deserving distinct monitoring and appropriate management.
Digital phenotyping for classification of anxiety severity during COVID-19
Authors: Nguyen Binh , Ivanov Martin , Bhat Venkat , Krishnan Sri
Published: October 2022

COVID-19 has led to an increase in anxiety among Canadians. Canadian Perspectives Survey Series (CPSS) is a dataset created by Statistics Canada to monitor the effects of COVID-19 among Canadians. Survey data were collected to evaluate health and health-related behaviours. This work evaluates CPSS2 and CPSS4, which were collected in May and July of 2020, respectively. The survey data consist of up to 102 questions. This work proposes the use of the survey data characteristics to identify the level of anxiety within the Canadian population during the first- and second-phases of COVID-19 and is validated by using the General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)-7 questionnaire. Minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR) is applied to select the top features to represent user anxiety, and support vector machine (SVM) is used to classify the separation of anxiety severity. We employ SVM for binary classification with 10-fold cross validation to separate the labels of Minimal and Severe anxiety to achieve an overall accuracy of 94.77±0.13% and 97.35±0.11% for CPSS2 and CPSS4, respectively. After analysis, we compared the results of the first and second phases of COVID-19 and determined a subset of the features that could be represented as pseudo passive (PP) data. The accurate classification provides a proxy on the potential onsets of anxiety to provide tailored interventions. Future works can augment the proposed PP data for carrying out a more detailed digital phenotyping.
Student teachers’ interactional language: Changes and improvements through guided self-reflection during the internship period
Authors: Chen Suanrong , Liu Huifang , Chen Jie
Published: October 2022

This case study aimed to investigate the changes in student teachers’ (STs) interactional language during their internship at local schools. The student teacher interactive language was measured using the analytical tool of improved Flanders interactive analysis system (iFIAS), and an intervention and interview were conducted afterward. The study found that the student teacher’s interactive language keeps changing: the ratio of teacher language (TL) is increasing, while the ratio of student language (SL) and silence are decreasing; the teacher’s direct instruction gradually shifts to indirect instruction; the number of positive integration grids (PIG) grows larger, while the number of defect grids is getting smaller; and the teacher asks more valid questions and makes more positive comments. The overall change did not come naturally, but due to the mentor’s instruction, the ST’s self-reflection, and the researchers’ prompt feedback of the iFIAS after each lesson. The study quantified the ST’s classroom language using iFIAS to provide a visualized understanding of the language. The findings can provide a reference value for future research on the interactive language of student teachers.
Dairy farm roadway surface materials as a P-source within the nutrient transfer continuum framework
Authors: Fenton Owen , Rice Paul , Murnane John. G. , Tuohy Patrick , Daly Karen
Published: October 2022

Internal farm roadways are connectors within agricultural landscapes, which act as sub-components of the nutrient transfer continuum (NTC). On dairy farms, roadway surface runoff dissolved and particulate phosphorus (P) sources stem from a combination of cow excreta deposited at locations that impede animal flow, soil deposited from cow hooves or machinery tyres, run-on from up-gradient fields, public roadways or farmyards and incidental spill of organic/inorganic fertilizers. The present study investigates the storage and potential release of P from the underlying roadway material (i.e. composite of soil and stone aggregates) as this source component is not considered in the NTC framework or documented in the literature. Herein, farm roadway materials were sampled (to 1 cm depth) at 17 locations avoiding fresh cow excreta. Multiple location types were selected e.g. straight roadway sections, roadway junctions, before and adjacent standoff areas associated with cattle underpasses, with all locations varying in distance from the farmyard. Roadway samples were analysed for phosphorus (P) and metals (Al, B, Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, and Mn) content. Results showed that the soil component of roadway materials are significant P legacy sources and are in themselves a P-storage component that merits inclusion in the NTC framework. All sampled locations, when compared with fresh roadway stone aggregates or surrounding fields, had highly elevated P with plant available Morgans P > 8 mg L-1 (Index 4, ranging from 10 – 110 mg L-1). Sampling points within 100 m of the farmyard together with roadway junctions and underpasses beyond this distance had highest P concentrations. Critical source areas, where source, mobilisation and transport of P to waters coincided, formed at three locations. Possible mitigation measures are a) divert roadway runoff into fields using low-cost surface water breaks, b) disconnect cattle underpass tanks from receiving waters and c) change roadway infrastructure to improve cow flow and minimise source build-up. Future research should examine P loads in runoff from roadway sections across farm typologies and roadway material types.
Transitions from pediatric to adult IBD care: Incorporating lessons from psychogastroenterology
Authors: Mendiolaza Michelle L. , Feingold Jordyn H. , Kaye-Kauderer Halley P. , Dubinsky Marla C. , Gorbenko Ksenia O. , Keefer Laurie A.
Published: October 2022

The transition from pediatric to adult gastroenterology care for adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a critical period associated with poor disease outcomes and high medical costs. Burdens such as the discontinuity of care when transitioning from one provider to another are amplified by poor coping and psychosocial factors. However, existing research on the topic of health care transitions has centered largely on disease knowledge and competencies that young adults ought to master and self-manage, while largely disregarding the broader psychosocial context and impacts of IBD on daily functioning. Findings from a recent mixed-methods pilot study of transition-aged adolescents with IBD and their parents highlight the importance of acknowledging the psychosocial needs of adolescents with IBD and their families throughout the transition process, which include understanding the gut-brain axis, optimizing social support and mental health resources, and maintaining optimism and positivity. In this review, we expand upon the findings from this pilot study, synthesize the latest research in psychogastroenterology and pediatric-to-adult transitions in IBD, and provide five patient-centered interventions that may be implemented in clinical settings, in anticipation of, and during the patient transition experience. These interventions are rooted in positive psychology and cognitive-behavioral principles and are designed for adolescents with IBD to complete with input from their families and health care professionals.
Analysis on heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma immune cells and a molecular risk model by integration of scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq
Authors: Liu Xiaorui , Li Jingjing , Wang Qingxiang , Bai Lu , Xing Jiyuan , Hu Xiaobo , Li Shuang , Li Qinggang
Published: October 2022

Background

Studies have shown that hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) heterogeneity is a main cause leading to failure of treatment. Technology of single-cell sequencing (scRNA) could more accurately reveal the essential characteristics of tumor genetics.

Methods

From the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, HCC scRNA-seq data were extracted. The FindCluster function was applied to analyze cell clusters. Autophagy-related genes were acquired from the MSigDB database. The ConsensusClusterPlus package was used to identify molecular subtypes. A prognostic risk model was built with the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO)–Cox algorithm. A nomogram including a prognostic risk model and multiple clinicopathological factors was constructed.

Results

Eleven cell clusters labeled as various cell types by immune cell markers were obtained from the combined scRNA-seq GSE149614 dataset. ssGSEA revealed that autophagy-related pathways were more enriched in malignant tumors. Two autophagy-related clusters (C1 and C2) were identified, in which C1 predicted a better survival, enhanced immune infiltration, and a higher immunotherapy response. LASSO–Cox regression established an eight-gene signature. Next, the HCCDB18, GSA14520, and GSE76427 datasets confirmed a strong risk prediction ability of the signature. Moreover, the low-risk group had enhanced immune infiltration and higher immunotherapy response. A nomogram which consisted of RiskScore and clinical features had better prediction ability.

Conclusion

To precisely assess the prognostic risk, an eight-gene prognostic stratification signature was developed based on the heterogeneity of HCC immune cells.
Immunovirotherapy: The role of antibody based therapeutics combination with oncolytic viruses
Authors: Jafari Mahdie , Kadkhodazadeh Maryam , Shapourabadi Mina Bahrololoumi , Goradel Nasser Hashemi , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali , Arashkia Arash , Abdoli Shahriyar , Sharifzadeh Zahra
Published: October 2022

Despite the fact that the new drugs and targeted therapies have been approved for cancer therapy during the past 30 years, the majority of cancer types are still remain challenging to be treated. Due to the tumor heterogeneity, immune system evasion and the complex interaction between the tumor microenvironment and immune cells, the great majority of malignancies need multimodal therapy. Unfortunately, tumors frequently develop treatment resistance, so it is important to have a variety of therapeutic choices available for the treatment of neoplastic diseases. Immunotherapy has lately shown clinical responses in malignancies with unfavorable outcomes. Oncolytic virus (OV) immunotherapy is a cancer treatment strategy that employs naturally occurring or genetically-modified viruses that multiply preferentially within cancer cells. OVs have the ability to not only induce oncolysis but also activate cells of the immune system, which in turn activates innate and adaptive anticancer responses. Despite the fact that OVs were translated into clinical trials, with T-VECs receiving FDA approval for melanoma, their use in fighting cancer faced some challenges, including off-target side effects, immune system clearance, non-specific uptake, and intratumoral spread of OVs in solid tumors. Although various strategies have been used to overcome the challenges, these strategies have not provided promising outcomes in monotherapy with OVs. In this situation, it is increasingly common to use rational combinations of immunotherapies to improve patient benefit. With the development of other aspects of cancer immunotherapy strategies, combinational therapy has been proposed to improve the anti-tumor activities of OVs. In this regard, OVs were combined with other biotherapeutic platforms, including various forms of antibodies, nanobodies, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, and dendritic cells, to reduce the side effects of OVs and enhance their efficacy. This article reviews the promising outcomes of OVs in cancer therapy, the challenges OVs face and solutions, and their combination with other biotherapeutic agents.
Neoadjuvant sintilimab and chemotherapy in patients with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A prospective, single-arm, phase 2 trial
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Ye Jinjun , Li Hui , Gu Dayong , Du Mingyu , Ai Dashan , Chen Wei , Fang Ying , Xu Xinyu , Bai Chenguang , Zhao Kuaile , Zhou Guoren
Published: October 2022

Background

Immunotherapy (Programmed cell death 1 blockade) has entered the ranks of advanced esophageal cancer first-line treatment; however, little is known about the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitor as neoadjuvant therapy in resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We aim to evaluate the activity and safety of the neoadjuvant sintilimab combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of resectable thoracic ESCC.

Methods

The enrolled patients with resectable (clinical stage II to IVA) ESCC received neoadjuvant sintilimab injection (200 mg/time, day 1), paclitaxel liposomes (135 mg/m2, day 1), and carboplatin (area under curve of 5 mg/mL/min, day 1) every 21 days for 2 cycles, and esophagectomy was performed within 3-6 weeks after the 2 cycles of treatment. The primary endpoint of the study was the pathological complete response (PCR) rate.

Results

From July 2019 to March 2021, a total of 47 patients were enrolled, of which 33 patients (70.2%) had clinical stage III disease. All patients completed the full two-cycle treatment and forty-five patients received radical surgery, including 44 (97.8%) R0 resections. Ten (22.2%) of 45 patients had a PCR, and the major pathological response (MPR) rate was 44.4% (20/45). The grade 3–4 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were mainly neutropenia (6 of 47,12.8%) and leucopenia (8 of 47,17.0%). One (2.1%) patient occurred postoperative immune-associated encephalitis. No delays in surgery were observed.

Conclusions

sintilimab combined with paclitaxel liposome and carboplatin, as demonstrated in this phase II trial to exhibit a relatively high PCR rate and acceptable safety, warrants additional investigation in resectable ESCC.

Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/, ChiCTR1900026593.
A novel inflammation-related lncRNAs prognostic signature identifies LINC00346 in promoting proliferation, migration, and immune infiltration of glioma
Authors: Zeng Wen-Jing , Zhang Lei , Cao Hui , Li Dongjie , Zhang Hao , Xia Zhiwei , Peng Renjun
Published: October 2022

In this study, a total of 13 inflammation-related lncRNAs with a high prognostic value were identified with univariate, multivariate Cox regression analysis, and LASSO analysis. LINC00346, which is one of the 13 lncRNAs identified, was positively associated with type 2 macrophage activation and the malignant degree of glioma. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunohistochemical staining showed that LINC00346 was highly expressed in high-grade glioma, while type 2 macrophages key transcription factor STAT3 and surface marker CD204 were also highly expressed simultaneously. LINC00346 high-expression gliomas were more sensitive to the anti–PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapy. LINC00346 was also associated with tumor proliferation and tumor migration validated by EdU, cell colony, formation CCK8, and transwell assays. These findings reveal novel biomarkers for predicting glioma prognosis and outline relationships between lncRNAs inflammation, and glioma, as well as possible immune checkpoint targets for glioma.
A bibliometric analysis of T cell and atherosclerosis
Authors: Wei Namin , Xu Yan , Li Ya’nan , Shi Jingjing , Zhang Xuesong , You Yaping , Sun Qianqian , Zhai Huaqiang , Hu Yuanhui
Published: October 2022

Atherosclerosis (AS) is widespread and develops into circulatory system problems. T cells play an essential regulatory role in AS occurrence and development. So far, there is no bibliometric research on T cells and AS. To learn more about T cell and AS development, 4,381 records were retrieved from Web of Science™ Core Collection. Then, these records were scientometrically analyzed using CiteSpace and VOSviewer in terms of spatiotemporal distribution, author distribution, subject categories, topic distribution, references, and keywords. Our analysis provides basic information on research in the field, demonstrates that the field has stabilized over the past decade, and identifies potential partners for interested researchers. Current research hotspots in this field mainly include the inflammatory mechanism, immune mechanism, related diseases, and related cytokines of AS. B cell, mortality, inhibition, and monocyte represent the frontiers of research in this field, undergoing an explosive phase. We hope that this work will provide new ideas for advancing the scientific research and clinical application of T cell and AS.
Elevation of IgE in patients with psoriasis: Is it a paradoxical phenomenon?
Authors: Shi Leyao , Liu Chen , Xiong Huabao , Shi Dongmei
Published: October 2022

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) elevation is a hallmark of allergic conditions such as atopic dermatitis (AD). The pathogenesis of AD is typically associated with high levels of IL-4 and IL-13 produced by activated T helper 2 (Th2) cells. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is an inflammatory skin disease mainly driven by Th17 cells and their related cytokines. Although the immunopathologic reactions and clinical manifestations are often easily distinguished in the two skin conditions, patients with psoriasis may sometimes exhibit AD-like manifestations, such as elevated IgE and persistent pruritic lesions. Given the fact that the effective T cells have great plasticity to re-differentiate in response to innate and environmental factors, this unusual skin condition could be a consequence of a cross-reaction between distinct arms of T-cell and humoral immunity. Here we review the literature concerning the roles of IgE in the development of AD and psoriasis, showing that elevated IgE seems to be an important indicator for this non-typical psoriasis.
Rapid detection of Staphylococcus aureus using a novel multienzyme isothermal rapid amplification technique
Authors: Heng Pengfei , Liu Jiakai , Song Zhen , Wu Chuan , Yu Xiuzhong , He Yang
Published: October 2022

Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen that causes various infections. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a fast and easy detection method for diagnosing and preventing S. aureus infections. In this study, MIRA assay was developed and validated (specificity; 100%) for the detection of S. aureus with nuc as the target gene. The reaction temperature and reaction time were then optimized, and the best reaction was at 40°C, 20 min. The assay could detect S. aureus in only 25 min. Additionally, the limit of detection of MIRA was 5 × 102 CFU/ml, 10-fold lower than that of the traditional PCR. Furthermore, this assay efficiently detected 219 S. aureus of 335 strains obtained from different bacterial samples (detection accuracy; 99.40%). In conclusion, this study provides a rapid and easy-to-operate method for the detection of S. aureus, and thus can be used for the timely diagnosis and prevention of S. aureus infection.
Loop-mediated isothermal amplification-microfluidic chip for the detection of Trichophyton infection
Authors: Jiang Weiwei , Hu Dongying , Xu Yanyan , Chen Yang , Zhu Xiaoyang , Han Zhao , Ye Xin , Li Xiaojing
Published: October 2022

Trichophyton is the most pathogenic type of fungal skin infection. It often invades and grows in a keratin-rich matrix, and lesions include human skin, hair, and fingernails (toenails). We designed LAMP primers for Trichophyton and developed a LAMP-Microfluidic chip detection system for Trichophyton. This system detects six common species of Trichophyton in the genus Trichophyton, including Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophyte, Trichophyton violaceum, Trichophyton tonsurans, Trichophyton verrucosum, and Trichophyton schoenleinii. The specificity reached 100%, and the sensitivity could reach about 1 × 102 copies/μl. The entire detection process can be completed within 60 min and does not cross-react with other dermatophytes. The established LAMP-Microfluidic chip detection system has the advantages of simple operation, high specificity, and high sensitivity, and has the potential for clinical application.
Examining attachment, cortisol secretion, and cognitive neurodevelopment in preschoolers and its predictive value for telomere length at age seven
Authors: de Mendonça Filho Euclides José , Frechette Ariane , Pokhvisneva Irina , Arcego Danusa Mar , Barth Barbara , Tejada Camila-Andrea Valle , Sassi Roberto , Wazana Ashley , Atkinson Leslie , Meaney Michael J. , Silveira Patricia P.
Published: October 2022

Background

Secure attachment reflects caregiver-child relationship in which the caregiver is responsive when support and comforting are needed by the child. This pattern of bond has an important buffering role in the response to stress by the reduction of the negative experience and its associated physiological response. Disruption of the physiological stress system is thought to be a central mechanism by which early care impacts children. Early life stress causes cellular and molecular changes in brain regions associated with cognitive functions that are fundamental for early learning.

Methods

The association between attachment, cortisol response before and after the Strange Situation Experiment, and neurodevelopment was examined in a sample of 107 preschoolers at age three. Also, the predictive effect of cortisol reactivity and attachment on telomere length at age seven was investigated in a followed-up sample of 77 children.

Results

Children with insecure attachment had higher cortisol secretion and poorer neurodevelopmental skills at age three. A significant cortisol change was observed across the experiment with non-significant interaction with attachment. The attachment and neurodevelopment association was not mediated by cortisol secretion. Preschoolers’ attachment and cortisol did not associate nor interacted to predict telomere length at age seven.

Conclusion

These findings add evidence to the detrimental effects of insecure attachment as an aggravator of the physiological response to stress and poorer neurodevelopment during the preschool period. Although attachment and cortisol were not predictive of telomere length, intervention policies that promote secure attachment are more likely to positively echo on several health domains.
NeuroVI-based new datasets and space attention network for the recognition and falling detection of delivery packages
Authors: Liu Xiangyong , Yang Zhi-Xin , Xu Zhiqiang , Yan Xiaoan
Published: October 2022

With the popularity of online-shopping, more and more delivery packages have led to stacking at sorting centers. Robotic detection can improve sorting efficiency. Standard datasets in computer vision are crucial for visual detection. A neuromorphic vision (NeuroVI) camera is a bio-inspired camera that can capture dynamic changes of pixels in the environment and filter out redundant background information with low latency. NeuroVI records pixel changes in the environment with the output of event-points, which are very suitable for the detection of delivery packages. However, there is currently no logistics dataset with the sensor, which limits its application prospects. This paper encodes the events stream of delivery packages, and converts the event-points into frame image datasets for recognition. Considering the falling risk during the packages' transportation on the sorting belt, another falling dataset is made for the first time. Finally, we combine different encoding images to enhance the feature-extraction on the YOLO network. The comparative results show that the new datasets and image-confusing network can improve the detection accuracy with the new NeuroVI.
Systems biology analyses reveal enhanced chronic morphine distortion of gut-brain interrelationships in simian human immunodeficiency virus infected rhesus macaques
Authors: Olwenyi Omalla A. , Johnson Samuel D. , Bidokhti Mehdi , Thakur Vandana , Pandey Kabita , Thurman Michellie , Acharya Arpan , Uppada Srijayaprakash , Callen Shannon , Giavedoni Luis , Ranga Udaykumar , Buch Shilpa J. , Byrareddy Siddappa N.
Published: October 2022

Background

Commonly used opioids, such as morphine have been implicated in augmented SIV/HIV persistence within the central nervous system (CNS). However, the extent of myeloid cell polarization and viral persistence in different brain regions remains unclear. Additionally, the additive effects of morphine on SIV/HIV dysregulation of gut-brain crosstalk remain underexplored. Therefore, studies focused on understanding how drugs of abuse such as morphine affect immune dynamics, viral persistence and gut-brain interrelationships are warranted.

Materials and methods

For a total of 9 weeks, rhesus macaques were ramped-up, and twice daily injections of either morphine (n = 4) or saline (n = 4) administered. This was later followed with infection with SHIVAD8EO variants. At necropsy, mononuclear cells were isolated from diverse brain [frontal lobe, cerebellum, medulla, putamen, hippocampus (HIP) and subventricular zone (SVZ)] and gut [lamina propria (LP) and muscularis (MUSC) of ascending colon, duodenum, and ileum] regions. Multiparametric flow cytometry was used to were profile for myeloid cell polarity/activation and results corroborated with indirect immunofluorescence assays. Simian human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) DNA levels were measured with aid of the digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Luminex assays were then used to evaluate soluble plasma/CSF biomarker levels. Finally, changes in the fecal microbiome were evaluated using 16S rRNA on the Illumina NovaSeq platform.

Results

Flow Cytometry-based semi-supervised analysis revealed that morphine exposure led to exacerbated M1 (CD14/CD16)/M2 (CD163/CD206) polarization in activated microglia that spanned across diverse brain regions. This was accompanied by elevated SHIV DNA within the sites of neurogenesis–HIP and SVZ. HIP/SVZ CD16+ activated microglia positively correlated with SHIV DNA levels in the brain (r = 0.548, p = 0.042). Simultaneously, morphine dependence depleted butyrate-producing bacteria, including Ruminococcus (p = 0.05), Lachnospira (p = 0.068) genera and Roseburia_sp_831b (p = 0.068). Finally, morphine also altered the regulation of CNS inflammation by reducing the levels of IL1 Receptor antagonist (IL1Ra).

Conclusion

These findings are suggestive that morphine promotes CNS inflammation by altering receptor modulation, increasing myeloid brain activation, distorting gut-brain crosstalk, and causing selective enhancement of SHIV persistence in sites of neurogenesis.
Abnormal functional connectivity in psoriasis patients with depression is associated with their clinical symptoms
Authors: Wang Xiaoxu , Liu Ni , Wu Lingjun , Zhang Yanan , Zhang Guangzhong
Published: October 2022

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disorder that is related to mental health disorders such as depression. However, few studies have focused on the features of brain activity in psoriasis patients with depression (PPD) and the association between brain activity and disease severity. A total of 29 PPD and 24 healthy controls were involved in this study, and all participants underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning. The psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and the self-rating depression scale (SDS) were used to measure clinical symptoms. Compared with HCs, PPD patients showed increased fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) in the Frontal_Mid_L and increased functional connectivity (FC) between the hypothalamus-R and the Cingulum_Mid_R. Correlation analysis suggested a positive correlation between PASI and SDS scores in PPD, while the fALFF and FC values were negatively correlated with their SDS and PASI scores. These brain regions may be associated with the development of depressive symptoms and disease severity in psoriasis patients.
Electrophysiological correlates of mindfulness in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Sarlon Jan , Brühl Annette B. , Lang Undine E. , Kordon Andreas
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) can reduce both stress and depressive symptoms. However, the impact of mindfulness on stress level in depressed subjects remains unclear. This study aims to assess electrophysiological correlates of mindfulness in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) at baseline, under stress exposure, and in relaxation following stress exposure.

Methods

Perceived mindfulness was assessed with the Freiburger Mindfulness Inventory (FMI) in 89 inpatients (mean age 51) with MDD [mean Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) 30]. Electrophysiological parameters [resting heart rate (RHR), heart rate variability (HRV), respiration rate, skin conductance, and skin temperature] were recorded at 5-min baseline, 1-min stress exposure, and 5-min self-induced relaxation.

Results

Freiburger Mindfulness Inventory was strongly inversely correlated with symptom severity measured by BDI (r = –0.53, p < 0.001). No correlations between FM score and electrophysiological parameters in any of the three conditions (baseline, stress exposure, relaxed state) could be found. The factor openness was associated with higher VLF (very low frequency of HRV) in the baseline condition. However, this correlation was no more significant after regression analysis when corrected for respiratory rate, age, and sex.

Conclusion

Autonomous nervous reactivity in depression was not associated with perceived mindfulness as measured by FMI score and presented electrophysiological parameters, despite the strong inverse correlation between state mindfulness and symptom severity.
Altered serum amyloid beta and cerebral perfusion and their associations with cognitive function in patients with subcortical ischemic vascular disease
Authors: Zhang Wei , Li Mingxu , Zhou Xia , Huang Chaojuan , Wan Ke , Li Chenchen , Yin Jiabin , Zhao Wenming , Zhang Cun , Zhu Xiaoqun , Sun Zhongwu
Published: October 2022

Subcortical ischemic vascular disease (SIVD) is one of the important causes of cognitive dysfunction, altered amyloid-beta (Aβ) and cerebral perfusion may be involved in the pathophysiological mechanism of SIVD and are closely related to cognitive function. We aimed to investigate altered serum Aβ and cerebral perfusion in patients with SIVD and their correlation with cognitive function. Seventy-four healthy controls (HCs) and 74 SIVD patients, including 38 SIVD patients with no cognitive impairment (SIVD-NCI) and 36 SIVD patients with mild cognitive impairment (SIVD-MCI) underwent the measurement of serum Aβ40 and Aβ42 levels, pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling MRI scanning, and cognitive evaluation. Compared to the healthy controls (HCs), the level of serum Aβ40 and Aβ40/42 ratio increased and Aβ42 decreased in SIVD patients. The serum Aβ40 level and Aβ40/42 ratio in patients with SIVD-MCI were significantly higher than those in the HCs and SIVD-NCI, and the level of Aβ42 in the SIVD-MCI was lower than the HCs. In addition, the serum Aβ40/42 ratio provided high diagnostic accuracy for SIVD and SIVD-MCI, it was further identified as an independent risk factor for cognitive impairment. Patients with SIVD-NCI and SIVD-MCI exhibited both increased and decreased cerebral blood flow (CBF) in regional. The Aβ40/42 ratio was associated with global CBF, while altered global and regional CBF was associated with cognitive deficits. In addition, white matter hyperintensities volume (WMHV) correlated with Aβ40/42 ratio, CBF, and cognition. The relationship between Aβ40/42 ratio and cognition was partially mediated by altered CBF. Based on these results, we conclude that the serum Aβ40/42 ratio may be a potential biomarker that can complement current methods for the prediction and diagnosis of cognitive impairment in SIVD patients. In addition, serum Aβ may play a role in cognitive function by regulating CBF, which provides new insights into the intervention, treatment, and prevention of cognitive impairment in SIVD.
Aberrant resting-state functional connectivity and topological properties of the subcortical network in functional dyspepsia patients
Authors: Zhang Pan , He Zhaoxuan , Mao Yangke , Sun Ruirui , Qu Yuzhu , Chen Li , Ma Peihong , Yin Shuai , Yin Tao , Zeng Fang
Published: October 2022

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a disorder of gut-brain interaction. Previous studies have demonstrated a wide range of abnormalities in functional brain activity and connectivity patterns in FD. However, the connectivity pattern of the subcortical network (SCN), which is a hub of visceral information transmission and processing, remains unclear in FD patients. The study compared the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and the global and nodal topological properties of SCN between 109 FD patients and 98 healthy controls, and then explored the correlations between the connectivity metrics and clinical symptoms in FD patients. The results demonstrated that FD patients manifested the increased rsFC in seventeen edges among the SCN, decreased small-worldness and local efficiency in SCN, as well as increased nodal efficiency and nodal degree centrality in the anterior thalamus than healthy controls (p < 0.05, false discovery rate corrected). Moreover, the rsFC of the right anterior thalamus-left nucleus accumbens edge was significantly correlated with the NDSI scores (r = 0.255, p = 0.008, uncorrected) and NDLQI scores (r = −0.241, p = 0.013, uncorrected), the nodal efficiency of right anterior thalamus was significantly correlated with NDLQI scores (r = 0.204, p = 0.036, uncorrected) in FD patients. This study indicated the abnormal rsFC pattern, as well as global and nodal topological properties of the SCN, especially the bilateral anterior thalamus in FD patients, which enhanced our understanding of the central pathophysiology of FD and will lay the foundation for the objective diagnosis of FD and the development of new therapies.
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals distinct transcriptional features of the purinergic signaling in mouse trigeminal ganglion
Authors: Jia Shilin , Liu JinYue , Chu Yanhao , Liu Qing , Mai Lijia , Fan Wenguo
Published: October 2022

Trigeminal ganglion (TG) is the first station of sensory pathways in the orofacial region. The TG neurons communicate with satellite glial cells (SGCs), macrophages and other cells forming a functional unit that is responsible for processing of orofacial sensory information. Purinergic signaling, one of the most widespread autocrine and paracrine pathways, plays a crucial role in intercellular communication. The multidirectional action of purinergic signaling in different cell types contributes to the neuromodulation and orofacial sensation. To fully understand the purinergic signaling in these processes, it is essential to determine the shared and unique expression patterns of genes associated with purinergic signaling in different cell types. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of 22,969 cells isolated from normal mouse TGs. We identified 18 distinct cell populations, including 6 neuron subpopulations, 3 glial subpopulations, 7 immune cell subpopulations, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. We also revealed the transcriptional features of genes associated with purinergic signaling, including purinergic receptors, extracellular adenosine triphosphate (eATP) release channels, eATP metabolism-associated enzymes, and eATP transporters in each cell type. Our results have important implications for understanding and predicting the cell type-specific roles of the purinergic signaling in orofacial signal processing in the trigeminal primary sensory system.
Sticker-and-spacer model for amyloid beta condensation and fibrillation
Authors: Connor Jack P. , Quinn Steven D. , Schaefer Charley
Published: October 2022

A major pathogenic hallmark of Alzheimer's disease is the presence of neurotoxic plaques composed of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides in patients' brains. The pathway of plaque formation remains elusive, though some clues appear to lie in the dominant presence of Aβ1 − 42 in these plaques despite Aβ1−40 making up approximately 90% of the Aβ pool. We hypothesize that this asymmetry is driven by the hydrophobicity of the two extra amino acids that are incorporated in Aβ1−42. To investigate this hypothesis at the level of single molecules, we have developed a molecular “sticker-and-spacer lattice model” of unfolded Aβ. The model protein has a single sticker that may reversibly dimerise and elongate into semi-flexible linear chains. The growth is hampered by excluded-volume interactions that are encoded by the hydrophilic spacers but are rendered cooperative by the attractive interactions of hydrophobic spacers. For sufficiently strong hydrophobicity, the chains undergo liquid-liquid phase-separation (LLPS) into condensates that facilitate the nucleation of fibers. We find that a small fraction of Aβ1−40 in a mixture of Aβ1−40 and Aβ1−42 shifts the critical concentration for LLPS to lower values. This study provides theoretical support for the hypothesis that LLPS condensates act as a precursor for aggregation and provides an explanation for the Aβ1−42-enrichment of aggregates in terms of hydrophobic interactions.