bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metagenomic next-generation sequencing for detecting lower respiratory tract infections in sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples from children
Authors: Shi Ruihe , Wang Yuan , Zhou Shujuan , Zhang Yanli , Zheng Shiwei , Zhang Dingfang , Du Xilong , Gu Weiyue , Xu Yiran , Zhu Changlian
Published: August 2023

Lower respiratory tract infections are common in children. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid has long been established as the best biological sample for detecting respiratory tract infections; however, it is not easily collected in children. Sputum may be used as an alternative yet its diagnostic accuracy remains controversial. Therefore, this study sought to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of sputum for detecting lower respiratory tract infections using metagenomic next-generation sequencing. Paired sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples were obtained from 68 patients; pathogens were detected in 67 sputum samples and 64 bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples by metagenomic next-generation sequencing, respectively. The combined pathogen-detection rates in the sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples were 80.90% and 66.2%, respectively. For sputum, the positive predictive values (PPVs) and negative predictive values (NPVs) for detecting bacteria were 0.72 and 0.73, respectively, with poor Kappa agreement (0.30; 95% confidence interval: 0.218–0.578, P < 0.001). However, viral detection in sputum had good sensitivity (0.87), fair specificity (0.57), and moderate Kappa agreement (0.46; 95% confidence interval: 0.231–0.693, P < 0.001). The PPVs and NPVs for viral detection in sputum were 0.82 and 0.67, respectively. The consistency between the sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was poor for bacterial detection yet moderate for viral detection. Thus, clinicians should be cautious when interpreting the results of sputum in suspected cases of lower respiratory tract infections, particularly with regards to bacterial detection in sputum. Viral detection in sputum appears to be more reliable; however, clinicians must still use comprehensive clinical judgment.
Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of formylchromones against Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio harveyi
Authors: Sathiyamoorthi Ezhaveni , Lee Jin-Hyung , Tan Yulong , Lee Jintae
Published: August 2023

Gram-negative Vibrio species are major foodborne pathogens often associated with seafood intake that causes gastroenteritis. On food surfaces, biofilm formation by Vibrio species enhances the resistance of bacteria to disinfectants and antimicrobial agents. Hence, an efficient antibacterial and antibiofilm approach is urgently required. This study examined the antibacterial and antivirulence effects of chromones and their 26 derivatives against V. parahaemolyticus and V. harveyi. 6-Bromo-3-formylchromone (6B3FC) and 6-chloro-3-formylchromone (6C3FC) were active antibacterial and antibiofilm compounds. Both 6B3FC and 6C3FC exhibited minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 20 µg/mL for planktonic cell growth and dose-dependently inhibited biofilm formation. Additionally, they decreased swimming motility, protease activity, fimbrial agglutination, hydrophobicity, and indole production at 20 µg/mL which impaired the growth of the bacteria. Furthermore, the active compounds could completely inhibit the slimy substances and microbial cells on the surface of the squid and shrimp. The most active compound 6B3FC inhibited the gene expression associated in quorum sensing and biofilm formation (luxS, opaR), pathogenicity (tdh), and membrane integrity (vmrA) in V. parahaemolyticus. However, toxicity profiling using seed germination and Caenorhabditis elegans models suggests that 6C3FC may have moderate effect at 50 µg/mL while 6B3FC was toxic to the nematodes 20-100 µg/mL. These findings suggest chromone analogs, particularly two halogenated formylchromones (6B3FC and 6C3FC), were effective antimicrobial and antibiofilm agents against V. parahaemolyticus in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.
How academic research and news media cover climate change: a case study from Chile
Authors: Cortés Pablo A. , Quiroga Riva
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Climate change has significant impacts on society, including the environment, economy, and human health. To effectively address this issue, it is crucial for both research and news media coverage to align their efforts and present accurate and comprehensive information to the public. In this study, we use a combination of text-mining and web-scrapping methods, as well as topic-modeling techniques, to examine the similarities, discrepancies, and gaps in the coverage of climate change in academic and general-interest publications in Chile.

Methods

We analyzed 1,261 academic articles published in the Web of Science and Scopus databases and 5,024 news articles from eight Chilean electronic platforms, spanning the period from 2012 to 2022.

Results

The findings of our investigation highlight three key outcomes. Firstly, the number of articles on climate change has increased substantially over the past decade, reflecting a growing interest and urgency surrounding the issue. Secondly, while both news media and academic research cover similar themes, such as climate change indicators, climate change impacts, and mitigation and adaptation strategies, the news media provides a wider variety of themes, including climate change and society and climate politics, which are not as commonly explored in academic research. Thirdly, academic research offers in-depth insights into the ecological consequences of global warming on coastal ecosystems and their inhabitants. In contrast, the news media tends to prioritize the tangible and direct impacts, particularly on agriculture and urban health.

Discussion

By integrating academic and media sources into our study, we shed light on their complementary nature, facilitating a more comprehensive communication and understanding of climate change. This analysis serves to bridge the communication gap that commonly, exists between scientific research and news media coverage. By incorporating rigorous analysis of scientific research with the wider reach of the news media, we enable a more informed and engaged public conversation on climate change.
Comorbidity network analysis using graphical models for electronic health records
Authors: Zhao Bo , Huepenbecker Sarah , Zhu Gen , Rajan Suja S. , Fujimoto Kayo , Luo Xi
Published: August 2023

Importance

The comorbidity network represents multiple diseases and their relationships in a graph. Understanding comorbidity networks among critical care unit (CCU) patients can help doctors diagnose patients faster, minimize missed diagnoses, and potentially decrease morbidity and mortality.

Objective

The main objective of this study was to identify the comorbidity network among CCU patients using a novel application of a machine learning method (graphical modeling method). The second objective was to compare the machine learning method with a traditional pairwise method in simulation.

Method

This cross-sectional study used CCU patients' data from Medical Information Mart for the Intensive Care-3 (MIMIC-3) dataset, an electronic health record (EHR) of patients with CCU hospitalizations within Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital from 2001 to 2012. A machine learning method (graphical modeling method) was applied to identify the comorbidity network of 654 diagnosis categories among 46,511 patients.

Results

Out of the 654 diagnosis categories, the graphical modeling method identified a comorbidity network of 2,806 associations in 510 diagnosis categories. Two medical professionals reviewed the comorbidity network and confirmed that the associations were consistent with current medical understanding. Moreover, the strongest association in our network was between “poisoning by psychotropic agents” and “accidental poisoning by tranquilizers” (logOR 8.16), and the most connected diagnosis was “disorders of fluid, electrolyte, and acid–base balance” (63 associated diagnosis categories). Our method outperformed traditional pairwise comorbidity network methods in simulation studies. Some strongest associations between diagnosis categories were also identified, for example, “diagnoses of mitral and aortic valve” and “other rheumatic heart disease” (logOR: 5.15). Furthermore, our method identified diagnosis categories that were connected with most other diagnosis categories, for example, “disorders of fluid, electrolyte, and acid–base balance” was associated with 63 other diagnosis categories. Additionally, using a data-driven approach, our method partitioned the diagnosis categories into 14 modularity classes.

Conclusion and relevance

Our graphical modeling method inferred a logical comorbidity network whose associations were consistent with current medical understanding and outperformed traditional network methods in simulation. Our comorbidity network method can potentially assist CCU doctors in diagnosing patients faster and minimizing missed diagnoses.
Internet search data showed increased interest in supplementary online education during the COVID-19 pandemic, with females showing a greater increase
Authors: Wang Pengyuan , Jiang Li , Yang Jian
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to tremendous disruptions in people’s everyday activities, including the pursuit of education. Internet search data may provide insights into potential audiences’ interest in online education. Using Internet search data, we examined the impact of COVID-19 on people’s interest in supplementary online education in the US over nine months (10/14/2019–07/19/2020). We found there was increased interest in supplementary online education after WHO announced COVID-19 as a pandemic, with a greater increase among females than males. We found that the increased interest in online education persisted after the stay-at-home orders were lifted; in addition, we identified concerns over unemployment as a key variable that significantly explained the variance in the interest in online education, even after controlling for COVID cases and deaths. Policymakers and online education platforms may take advantage of people’s, especially women’s increased interest in online education when designing policies or marketing mix.
Fostering digital transformation in education: technology enhanced learning from professors’ experiences in emergency remote teaching
Authors: Mondragon-Estrada Enrique , Kirschning Ingrid , Nolazco-Flores Juan Arturo , Camacho-Zuñiga Claudia
Published: August 2023

In this work, we aim to understand professors’ perception of the key competences as well as the best educational strategies and technological tools to guide digital transformation (DT) in education, according to their experience in emergency remote teaching (ERT). In recent years, technological advancement has driven DT in many areas, with education being among them. ERT due to COVID-19 accelerated this transition. Restrictions and lockdowns forced higher education institutions to adopt remote teaching strategies and tools suited for a digital environment. We surveyed 100 professors from a private Mexican university with 15-month experience of online ERT. We asked them through Likert scale questions to self-evaluate their performance and whether they perceived it to be better in online or hybrid environments compared with face-to-face environments in different aspects. We performed correlation, cluster, and factor analysis to identify the relationships and patterns in their answers. Through open-ended questions, we also asked the participants about the challenges and achievements they experienced, and the educational strategies and technological tools they successfully incorporated during ERT. We also conducted text mining to extract the most relevant information from these answers and validated that they were not polarized with negative sentiment using a large language model. Our results showed social intelligence as an underlying competence for teaching performance was highlighted in the digital environment due to the physical interaction limitations. Participants found success in implementing information and communication technologies, resulting in maintaining student interest and building trust in the online environment. Professors recognized the relevance not only of learning management systems and communication platforms, as expected, but also hardware such as tablets, cameras, and headphones for the successful delivery of education in a digital environment. Technology Enhanced Learning transposes game-based, quizzing practices, and collaborative learning to digital environments. Furthermore, the professors recommended learning-by-doing, flipped learning, problem-based learning, game-based learning, and holistic education as some pedagogical methodologies that were successfully applied in ERT and could be implemented for DT. Understanding the gains concerning teaching learning strategies and technologies that were incorporated during ERT is of the utmost importance for driving DT and its benefits for current and future education.
Comprehensive analysis identifies novel targets of gemcitabine to improve chemotherapy treatment strategies for colorectal cancer
Authors: Zeng Xinxin , Sun Liyue , Ling Xiaomei , Jiang Yuying , Shen Ju , Liang Lei , Zhang Xuhui
Published: August 2023

Background

Gemcitabine (GEM) is a second-line anticancer drug of choice for some colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, and GEM inability to be commonly available in the clinic due to the lack of clarity of the exact action targets.

Methods

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of GEM treatment for 42 CRC cell lines were accessed from the Genomics of Drug sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) database. High-throughput sequencing data of CRC patients were captured in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted. Pearson correlations were derived for GEM potency-related genes. Differential analysis was conducted in the TCGA cohort to obtain CRC development-related genes (CDRGs), and univariate COX model analysis was performed on CDRGs overlapping with GEM potency-related genes to obtain CDRGs affecting CRC prognosis. Hub genes affecting GEM potency were identified by Spearman correlation.

Results

CALB2 and GPX3 were identified as potential targets for GEM treatment of CRC via prognostic analysis, which we also observed to be elevated with elevated clinical stage in CRC patients. The enhanced expression of CALB2 and GPX3 genes identified in the pathway analysis might inhibit the body metabolism as well as activate immune and inflammation related pathways. In addition, we found that CALB2 and GPX3 could also be considered as prognostic biomarkers in pan-cancer. Finally, we found that CALB2 and GPX3 were remarkably associated with the drug sensitivity of MG-132, Dasatinib, Shikonin, Midostaurin, MS-275, and Z-LNle-CHO, which were expected to be the drugs of choice for GEM combination.

Conclusion

CALB2 and GPX3 represent prognostic biomarkers for CRC and they might be potential action targets for GEM. Our study offered innovative ideas for GEM administration strategies.
Bioactive oxylipins in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with and without hypertriglyceridemia
Authors: Xiao Yanan , Pietzner Anne , Rohwer Nadine , Jung Adelheid , Rothe Michael , Weylandt Karsten H. , Elbelt Ulf
Published: August 2023

Objective

Dyslipidemia, in particular elevated triglycerides (TGs) contribute to increased cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this pilot study we aimed to assess how increased TGs affect hepatic fat as well as polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism and oxylipin formation in T2DM patients.

Methods

40 patients with T2DM were characterized analyzing routine lipid blood parameters, as well as medical history and clinical characteristics. Patients were divided into a hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) group (TG ≥ 1.7mmol/l) and a normal TG group with TGs within the reference range (TG < 1.7mmol/l). Profiles of PUFAs and their oxylipins in plasma were measured by gas chromatography and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Transient elastography (TE) was used to assess hepatic fat content measured as controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) (in dB/m) and the degree of liver fibrosis measured as stiffness (in kPa).

Results

Mean value of hepatic fat content measured as CAP as well as body mass index (BMI) were significantly higher in patients with high TGs as compared to those with normal TGs, and correlation analysis showed higher concentrations of TGs with increasing CAP and BMI scores in patients with T2DM. There were profound differences in plasma oxylipin levels between these two groups. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) and lipoxygenase (LOX) metabolites were generally more abundant in the HTG group, especially those derived from arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), γ-linolenic acid (γ-LA), and α-linolenic acid (α-LA), and a strong correlation between TG levels and plasma metabolites from different pathways was observed.

Conclusions

In adult patients with T2DM, elevated TGs were associated with increased liver fat and BMI. Furthermore, these patients also had significantly higher plasma levels of CYP- and LOX- oxylipins, which could be a novel indicator of increased inflammatory pathway activity, as well as a novel target to dampen this activity.
G protein–coupled estrogen receptor: a promising therapeutic target for aldosterone-induced hypertension
Authors: Li Xuehan , Kuang Wenlong , Qiu Zhihua , Zhou Zihua
Published: August 2023

Aldosterone is one of the most essential hormones synthesized by the adrenal gland because it regulates water and electrolyte balance. G protein–coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a newly discovered aldosterone receptor, which is proposed to mediate the non-genomic pathways of aldosterone while the hormone simultaneously interacts with mineralocorticoid receptor. In contrast to its cardio-protective role in postmenopausal women via its interaction with estrogen, GPER seems to trigger vasoconstriction effects and can further induce water and sodium retention in the presence of aldosterone, indicating two entirely different binding sites and effects for estrogen and aldosterone. Accumulating evidence also points to a role of aldosterone in mediating hypertension and its risk factors via the interaction with GPER. Therefore, with this review, we aimed to summarize the research on these interactions to help (1) elucidate the role of GPER activated by aldosterone in the blood vessels, heart, and kidney; (2) compare the non-genomic actions between aldosterone and estrogen mediated by GPER; and (3) address the potential of GPER as a new promising therapeutic target for aldosterone-induced hypertension.
Preserving the past, nurturing the future: a systematic literature review on the conservation and revitalization of Chinese historical town environments during modernization
Authors: Wen Yanbo , Haider Syed Arslan , Boukhris Mohamed
Published: August 2023

The rapid urbanization occurring in China has brought increased attention from scholars towards the issue of revitalizing historical conservation of towns and adapting them to meet the needs of a modern city. In contemporary times, there is a notable emphasis among local residents and experts on the matter of effectively integrating the historical and cultural aspects, distinctive qualities, and traditional practices of a given locality with the demands and dynamics of urban life in a manner that preserves its historical essence. The present study focuses on several questions: What are the philosophical underpinnings and conceptual significance of conservation, regeneration, and urban evolution? What are the existing guidelines and implemented schemes of regeneration in China based on the principles of Space syntax theory and configurational analysis? The primary goal is to enhance the functionality of historical conservation of towns and improve the living environment for the local inhabitants. The study begins with the challenges faced in the historical conservation of towns in the backdrop of high-speed urbanization. Subsequently, it introduces the Space syntax theory as a theoretical perspective to address the problem of how to ensure the preservation of historical towns in linewith the demands of the modern cities in China. The current study used the bibliometric analysis method based on Scopus, Dimension and Web of science databases. The analysis was performed on R software and VOS viewer. Furthermore, only published articles, review papers and book chapters were selected that are published between 2000–2022. Lastly, the study suggests that the future research on the conservation of historical cities in China shall focus on policy formulation and community involvement in conservation and the regeneration of historic areas. The need to involve the public in the decision-making process of the future of their cities is imperative, since the locals are the end-users to every regeneration scheme, hence they are the key stakeholder responsible for ensuring the sustainability of their region.
Macroinvertebrate traits in Arctic streams reveal latitudinal patterns in physiology and habits that are strongly linked to climate
Authors: Lento Jennifer , Lau Danny C. P. , Brittain John E. , Culp Joseph M. , Goedkoop Willem
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Arctic freshwater ecosystems are undergoing rapid environmental transformation because of climate change, which is predicted to produce fundamental alterations in river community structure and function.

Methods

We explored how climate change affects benthic invertebrate communities of Arctic streams by examining patterns of their biological traits along latitudinal and climatic gradients in eastern North America (Canada) and northwestern Europe (Sweden, Norway).

Results

Despite differences in taxonomic composition between continents, we identified similarities in the functional trait niche (FTN) of predominant macroinvertebrate taxonomic groups. Trait composition differed by latitude in eastern Canada, with a predominance of cold-tolerant taxa, tubular body shape, and cased and attached habits at the highest latitudes. Differences in trait composition were evident among ecoregions in Europe, with trait dominance at the highest latitudes that was comparable to North America. There was a similar increase in the relative abundance of cold tolerance and tubular body shape and a decrease in obligate shredders and trait richness with decreasing temperatures across both continents.

Discussion

These patterns are indicative of FTNs that include physiological traits and habits that are advantageous for the low temperatures, short ice-free period, and low riparian vegetation cover at the highest latitudes. We predict that climate change will lead to an increase in functional diversity at high latitudes, as organisms with trait modalities that are currently only found at lower latitudes move northward. However, this change in trait composition will be mediated by the effect of spatial connectivity on dispersal ability, with slower change occurring on Arctic islands. These findings can support modelling of future change in Arctic freshwater assemblages in response to ongoing climate change.
Understory vegetation supports more abundant and diverse butterfly communities in oil palm plantations
Authors: Reiss-Woolever Valentine Joy , Advento Andreas Dwi , Aryawan Anak Agung Ketut , Caliman Jean-Pierre , Foster William A. , Naim Mohammad , Pujianto  , Purnomo Dedi , Soeprapto  , Suhardi  , Tarigan Ribka Sionita , Wahyuningsih Resti , Rambe Tuani Dzulfikar Siguga , Ps Sudharto , Widodo Rudy Harto , Luke Sarah H. , Snaddon Jake L. , Turner Edgar C.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The cultivation of oil palm, from which palm oil, the world’s most widely traded vegetable oil, is processed, has had marked effects on ecosystems and native species across the tropics. While declines in biodiversity due to conversion to oil palm have been well recorded across plant and animal taxa, less work has been done to identify approaches to plantation management which will enable producers to satisfy growing global demand while limiting environmental damage.

Methods

Through a large-scale understory management experiment, we investigated the long- and short-term effects of varying vegetation management regimes on the abundance, richness, and diversity of day-flying Lepidoptera.

Results

Over the long-term, the lowest levels of vegetation complexity resulted in significantly lower Lepidoptera abundance, species richness and evenness. Less intensive understory clearing resulted in healthier communities, with limited differences between removal by herbicide application or chemical-free removal. Over the short-term, biodiversity was not directly affected by vegetation complexity, suggesting that manual removal of vegetation may be equally damaging to butterfly or moth communities as removal by intermediate levels of herbicide spraying.

Discussion

These findings substantiate calls to limit vegetation clearing and maintain habitat heterogeneity on both a local and landscape scale, while also suggesting that a hard “no-spray” guideline may not be the only option to support butterfly friendly plantations.
Identification of molecular subtypes and immune infiltration in endometriosis: a novel bioinformatics analysis and In vitro validation
Authors: Lv Si-ji , Sun Jia-ni , Gan Lei , Sun Jing
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Endometriosis is a worldwide gynacological diseases, affecting in 6–10% of women of reproductive age. The aim of this study was to investigate the gene network and potential signatures of immune infiltration in endometriosis.

Methods

The expression profiles of GSE51981, GSE6364, and GSE7305 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Core modules and central genes related to immune characteristics were identified using a weighted gene coexpression network analysis. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify central genes in immune infiltration. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was used to identify the hub genes. We then constructed subtypes of endometriosis samples and calculated their correlation with hub genes. qRTPCR and Western blotting were used to verify our findings.

Results

We identified 10 candidate hub genes (GZMB, PRF1, KIR2DL1, KIR2DL3, KIR3DL1, KIR2DL4, FGB, IGFBP1, RBP4, and PROK1) that were significantly correlated with immune infiltration. Our study established a detailed immune network and systematically elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying endometriosis from the aspect of immune infiltration.

Discussion

Our study provides comprehensive insights into the immunology involved in endometriosis and might contribute to the development of immunotherapy for endometriosis. Furthermore, our study sheds light on the underlying molecular mechanism of endometriosis and might help improve the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.
ErbB2 (HER2)-CAR-NK-92 cells for enhanced immunotherapy of metastatic fusion-driven alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Heim Catrin , Moser Laura M. , Kreyenberg Herman , Bonig Halvard B. , Tonn Torsten , Wels Winfried S. , Gradhand Elise , Ullrich Evelyn , Meister Michael T. , Koerkamp Marian Groot , Holstege Frank C. P. , Drost Jarno , Klusmann Jan-Henning , Bader Peter , Merker Michael , Rettinger Eva
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a challenging tumor entity that evades conventional treatments and endogenous antitumor immune responses, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. Applying chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology to natural killer (NK) cells may offer safe, effective, and affordable therapies that enhance cancer immune surveillance.

Methods

Here, we assess the efficacy of clinically usable CAR-engineered NK cell line NK-92/5.28.z against ErbB2-positive RMS in vitro and in a metastatic xenograft mouse model.

Results

Our results show that NK-92/5.28.z cells effectively kill RMS cells in vitro and significantly prolong survival and inhibit tumor progression in mice. The persistence of NK-92/5.28.z cells at tumor sites demonstrates efficient antitumor response, which could help overcome current obstacles in the treatment of solid tumors.

Discussion

These findings encourage further development of NK-92/5.28.z cells as off-the-shelf immunotherapy for the treatment of metastatic RMS.
Adherence to a healthy sleep pattern is associated with lower risks of incident falls and fractures during aging
Authors: Zhou Tao , Dai Xue , Yuan Yu , Xue Qiaochu , Li Xiang , Wang Mengying , Ma Hao , Heianza Yoriko , Qi Lu
Published: August 2023

Background

Autoimmune diseases are more common among people with unhealthy sleep behaviors, and these conditions have been linked to aging-related bone health. However, there have been few studies that examined the correlation between recently developed sleep patterns based on sleep duration, sleepiness, chronotype, snoring, insomnia, and the incidence of falls and fractures.

Methods

We used a newly developed sleep pattern with components of sleep 7 to 8 h per day, absence of frequent excessive daytime sleepiness, early chronotype, no snoring, and no frequent insomnia as healthy factors to study their relationship with the incidence of falls and fractures. The analysis was conducted among 289,000 participants from the UK Biobank.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 12.3 years (3.5 million person-years of follow-up), and 12,967 cases of falls and 16,121 cases of all fractures were documented. Compared to participants exhibiting an unfavorable sleep pattern, those adhering to a healthy sleep pattern experienced a 17% and 28% reduction in the risks of incident falls (hazard ratio [HR], 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74–0.93) and all fractures (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.66–0.79) during follow-up. In addition, participants exhibiting a healthy sleep pattern, together with a high genetically determined bone mineral density (BMD), showed the lowest risks of falls and fractures.

Conclusion

A healthy sleep pattern was significantly linked to decreased risks of incident falls and fractures. The protective association was not modified by genetically determined BMD.
T cells in abdominal aortic aneurysm: immunomodulation and clinical application
Authors: Gong Wei , Tian Yu , Li Lei
Published: August 2023

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) dysfunction. The inflammatory cells involved in AAA mainly include immune cells including macrophages, neutrophils, T-lymphocytes and B lymphocytes and endothelial cells. As the blood vessel wall expands, more and more lymphocytes infiltrate into the outer membrane. It was found that more than 50% of lymphocytes in AAA tissues were CD3+ T cells, including CD4+, CD8+T cells, γδ T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Due to the important role of T cells in inflammatory response, an increasing number of researchers have paid attention to the role of T cells in AAA and dug into the relevant mechanism. Therefore, this paper focuses on reviewing the immunoregulatory role of T cells in AAA and their role in immunotherapy, seeking potential targets for immunotherapy and putting forward future research directions.
The transcriptome sequencing analysis reveals immune mechanisms of soybean fermented powder on the loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) in response to Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) infection
Authors: Xu Yayuan , Zhang Xinxin , Li Dongqi , Qian Kun , Liu Yu , Xu Tingjuan , Dai Lishang , Cheng Jianghua
Published: August 2023

The loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus), a small commercial fish that is widely cultivated for its high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acid, is a member of the genus Misgurnus and the family Cyprinidae. In this study, we gave the LPS-injected loach fermented soybean meal and used transcriptome sequencing to investigate the impact of the fermented soybean powder on the loach’s immune system. 3384 up-regulated genes and 12116 down-regulated genes were found among the 15500 differentially expressed genes, according to the results. The differentially expressed genes were shown to be involved in cellular processes, metabolic processes, cellular anatomical entities, and binding, according to the Go functional annotation. Meanwhile, the KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the soybean fermented powder treated groups showed significant differences in DNA replication, Nucleotide excision repair, Fanconi anemia pathway, and Base excision repair pathways, suggesting that these pathways are closely related to the enhancement of the immune function of loach by soybean fermented powder. The particular conclusions not exclusively can provide a new conception for the rational utilization of soybean fermented powder but also can provide theoretical guidance for the subsequent healthy breeding of loach.
Ocean-human relations in the Anthropocene: mapping trends in sustainability-related marine social sciences articles
Authors: Pelke Nane , Simonn Finn Christian
Published: August 2023

Research about ocean-human relations has significantly increased in recent years. Compared to other disciplines in the oceanic realm, the marine social sciences, as an umbrella term for diverse disciplines and research streams dealing with ocean-human relations, however only recently gained more attention. In this light, the UN Ocean Decade stresses marine social science’s pivotal role in assessing future trajectories toward more sustainable ocean-human relations. Our study aims to identify research trends in sustainability-related marine social sciences. Therefore, we thoroughly analyzed the metadata of 1,215 peer-reviewed articles published between 1991 and 2023 and retrieved from the Web of Sciences (WoS) database by applying various bibliometric analysis methods. Our study provides insights into (1) the scientific production of sustainability-related marine social sciences and its evolution (2) the main topics and research streams of sustainability-related marine social sciences, and (3) how these topics developed over time. The findings demonstrate a significant increase in annual scientific production as time progressed, with some countries and institutions contributing more than others. We identified, discussed, and visualized six research streams: (1) Perceptions and benefits of marine conservation; (2) Fisheries, aquaculture, and food security; (3) Climate change and climate change responses; (4) Coastal landscape and land use change; (5) Coastal and marine management; and (6) Development and ocean-human health. Based on those discussions, our study points to four future avenues for research and discussions marine social sciences could potentially build on. These include (1) strengthening the capacity of sustainability-related marine social sciences; (2) enhancing cross-country studies and cooperation; (3) fostering dialogue between marine natural and social scientists; and (4) making (more) sense of sustainability-related marine social science’s epistemic features.
Assessment of phytoplankton diversity, distribution, and environmental variables along the southeast coast of India
Authors: Sathish Kumar P. , Dharani G. , Santhanakumar J. , Jha Dilip Kumar , Pandey Vikas , Venkatnarayanan S. , Jebakumar J. Prince Prakash , Muthukumar C. , James R. Arthur
Published: August 2023

Coastal waters are dynamic because of anthropogenic activities that contribute nutrients and contaminants. These changes have the potential to alter patterns of primary production and thus pelagic food webs. Here, we investigated the spatial variation of the phytoplankton community and its response to changing environmental variables at 84 stations along the five coastal districts of Tamil Nadu (TN). During the present study, 85 phytoplankton species were recorded, such as diatoms (64), dinoflagellates (18), silicoflagellates (1), and Cyanophyceae (2). The maximum phytoplankton abundance was recorded on the Thanjavur coast and gradually decreased towards the south coast of Tamil Nadu. Among the phytoplankton community, 50% was dominated by pennate diatoms, attributed to higher NO3− concentrations in the coastal waters due to agricultural discharge. Cluster analysis revealed that Ramanathapuram and Tirunelveli formed a closed cluster, whereas Thanjavur and Pudukottai formed a separate closed cluster associated with higher nutrient and metal concentrations, highlighting the difference in physicochemical parameters between the northern and southern districts of the TN coast. Relatively high nutrient concentrations in the coastal waters of northern districts are of greater concern, which could impact the coastal ecosystem. Coastal eutrophication is becoming a widespread phenomenon, causing disruption in the food chain and ecosystem balances and hence requiring regular monitoring and management.
Research on the dispersion of carbon fiber and recycled carbon fiber in cement-based materials: a review
Authors: Gao Han , Xia Yanghao
Published: August 2023

Recycled carbon fiber, as a novel form of regenerated fiber, exhibits exceptional properties such as high strength, high modulus, excellent electrical conductivity, and corrosion resistance. Consequently, it has garnered significant attention in recent years, owing to its potential to confer unique intelligent characteristics to cement-based materials. However, the dispersion of recycled carbon fiber remains an inevitable concern. Building upon existing research, this paper meticulously categorizes different types of recycled carbon fiber based on their mechanical properties and surface characteristics, while also exploring the impact of additives on fiber dispersion. Furthermore, a thorough evaluation of fiber dispersion methods is provided, considering the dimensions of stability, uniformity, and morphology at various stages, including fiber suspension, fresh mixture, and hardened matrix. Additionally, this paper offers a comprehensive summary and comparison of fiber dispersion methods, taking into account fiber pretreatment and preparation processes. Extensive literature reviews unequivocally support the notion that achieving a uniform dispersion of recycled carbon fiber serves as a fundamental requirement for enhancing and optimizing the properties of composites. Consequently, the utilization of dispersion and evaluation methods based on carbon fiber enables the exploration of appropriate dispersion methods tailored to different types of recycled carbon fiber in cement-based materials.
Mast cell-mediated immune regulation in health and disease
Authors: Dileepan Kottarappat N. , Raveendran Vineesh V. , Sharma Rishi , Abraham Harita , Barua Rajat , Singh Vikas , Sharma Ram , Sharma Mukut
Published: August 2023

Mast cells are important components of the immune system, and they perform pro-inflammatory as well as anti-inflammatory roles in the complex process of immune regulation in health and disease. Because of their strategic perivascular localization, sensitivity and adaptability to the microenvironment, and ability to release a variety of preformed and newly synthesized effector molecules, mast cells perform unique functions in almost all organs. Additionally, Mast cells express a wide range of surface and cytoplasmic receptors which enable them to respond to a variety of cytokines, chemicals, and pathogens. The mast cell’s role as a cellular interface between external and internal environments as well as between vasculature and tissues is critical for protection and repair. Mast cell interactions with different immune and nonimmune cells through secreted inflammatory mediators may also turn in favor of disease promoting agents. First and forefront, mast cells are well recognized for their multifaceted functions in allergic diseases. Reciprocal communication between mast cells and endothelial cells in the presence of bacterial toxins in chronic/sub-clinical infections induce persistent vascular inflammation. We have shown that mast cell proteases and histamine induce endothelial inflammatory responses that are synergistically amplified by bacterial toxins. Mast cells have been shown to exacerbate vascular changes in normal states as well as in chronic or subclinical infections, particularly among cigarette smokers. Furthermore, a potential role of mast cells in SARS-CoV-2-induced dysfunction of the capillary-alveolar interface adds to the growing understanding of mast cells in viral infections. The interaction between mast cells and microglial cells in the brain further highlights their significance in neuroinflammation. This review highlights the significant role of mast cells as the interface that acts as sensor and early responder through interactions with cells in systemic organs and the nervous system.
Deep learning assisted diagnosis system: improving the diagnostic accuracy of distal radius fractures
Authors: Zhang Jiayao , Li Zhimin , Lin Heng , Xue Mingdi , Wang Honglin , Fang Ying , Liu Songxiang , Huo Tongtong , Zhou Hong , Yang Jiaming , Xie Yi , Xie Mao , Lu Lin , Liu Pengran , Ye Zhewei
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To explore an intelligent detection technology based on deep learning algorithms to assist the clinical diagnosis of distal radius fractures (DRFs), and further compare it with human performance to verify the feasibility of this method.

Methods

A total of 3,240 patients (fracture: n = 1,620, normal: n = 1,620) were included in this study, with a total of 3,276 wrist joint anteroposterior (AP) X-ray films (1,639 fractured, 1,637 normal) and 3,260 wrist joint lateral X-ray films (1,623 fractured, 1,637 normal). We divided the patients into training set, validation set and test set in a ratio of 7:1.5:1.5. The deep learning models were developed using the data from the training and validation sets, and then their effectiveness were evaluated using the data from the test set. Evaluate the diagnostic performance of deep learning models using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, and compare them with medical professionals.

Results

The deep learning ensemble model had excellent accuracy (97.03%), sensitivity (95.70%), and specificity (98.37%) in detecting DRFs. Among them, the accuracy of the AP view was 97.75%, the sensitivity 97.13%, and the specificity 98.37%; the accuracy of the lateral view was 96.32%, the sensitivity 94.26%, and the specificity 98.37%. When the wrist joint is counted, the accuracy was 97.55%, the sensitivity 98.36%, and the specificity 96.73%. In terms of these variables, the performance of the ensemble model is superior to that of both the orthopedic attending physician group and the radiology attending physician group.

Conclusion

This deep learning ensemble model has excellent performance in detecting DRFs on plain X-ray films. Using this artificial intelligence model as a second expert to assist clinical diagnosis is expected to improve the accuracy of diagnosing DRFs and enhance clinical work efficiency.
Nomogram based on computed tomography images and clinical data for distinguishing between primary intestinal lymphoma and Crohn’s disease: a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Xiao Mengjun , Tan Jiahe , Li Haiou , Qiu Chenyang , Ma Yinchao , Wang Haiyan
Published: August 2023

Background

Differential diagnosis of primary intestinal lymphoma (PIL) and Crohn’s disease (CD) is a challenge in clinical diagnosis.

Aims

To investigate the validity of the nomogram based on clinical and computed tomography (CT) features to identify PIL and CD.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed laboratory parameters, demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, and CT imaging features of PIL and CD patients from two centers. Univariate logistic analysis was performed for each variable, and laboratory parameter model, clinical model and imaging features model were developed separately. Finally, a nomogram was established. All models were evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

This study collected data from 121 patients (PIL = 69, CD = 52) from Center 1. Data from 43 patients (PIL = 24, CD = 19) were collected at Center 2 as an external validation cohort to validate the robustness of the model. Three models and a nomogram were developed to distinguish PIL from CD. Most models performed well from the external validation cohort. The nomogram showed the best performance with an AUC of 0.921 (95% CI: 0.838–1.000) and sensitivities, specificities, and accuracies of 0.945, 0.792, and 0.860, respectively.

Conclusion

A nomogram combining clinical data and imaging features was constructed, which can effectively distinguish PIL from CD.
Probiotics: mechanism of action, health benefits and their application in food industries
Authors: Latif Anam , Shehzad Aamir , Niazi Sobia , Zahid Asna , Ashraf Waqas , Iqbal Muhammad Waheed , Rehman Abdur , Riaz Tahreem , Aadil Rana Muhammad , Khan Imran Mahmood , Özogul Fatih , Rocha João Miguel , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Korma Sameh A.
Published: August 2023

Probiotics, like lactic acid bacteria, are non-pathogenic microbes that exert health benefits to the host when administered in adequate quantity. Currently, research is being conducted on the molecular events and applications of probiotics. The suggested mechanisms by which probiotics exert their action include; competitive exclusion of pathogens for adhesion sites, improvement of the intestinal mucosal barrier, gut immunomodulation, and neurotransmitter synthesis. This review emphasizes the recent advances in the health benefits of probiotics and the emerging applications of probiotics in the food industry. Due to their capability to modulate gut microbiota and attenuate the immune system, probiotics could be used as an adjuvant in hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, cancer, and gastrointestinal diseases. Considering the functional properties, probiotics are being used in the dairy, beverage, and baking industries. After developing the latest techniques by researchers, probiotics can now survive within harsh processing conditions and withstand GI stresses quite effectively. Thus, the potential of probiotics can efficiently be utilized on a commercial scale in food processing industries.
Zinc recovery from bioleachate using a microbial electrolysis cell and comparison with selective precipitation
Authors: Spiess Sabine , Kucera Jiri , Vaculovic Tomas , Birklbauer Ludwig , Habermaier Clemens , Conde Amaia Sasiain , Mandl Martin , Haberbauer Marianne
Published: August 2023

Metal recycling is essential for strengthening a circular economy. Microbial leaching (bioleaching) is an economical and environmentally friendly technology widely used to extract metals from insoluble ores or secondary resources such as dust, ashes, and slags. On the other hand, microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) would offer an energy-efficient application for recovering valuable metals from an aqueous solution. In this study, we investigated a MEC for Zn recovery from metal-laden bioleachate for the first time by applying a constant potential of −100 mV vs. Ag/AgCl (3 M NaCl) on a synthetic wastewater-treating bioanode. Zn was deposited onto the cathode surface with a recovery efficiency of 41 ± 13% and an energy consumption of 2.55 kWh kg−1. For comparison, Zn recovery from zinc sulfate solution resulted in a Zn recovery efficiency of 100 ± 0% and an energy consumption of 0.70 kWh kg−1. Furthermore, selective metal precipitation of the bioleachate was performed. Individual metals were almost completely precipitated from the bioleachate at pH 5 (Al), pH 7 (Zn and Fe), and pH 9 (Mg and Mn).