bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The composition and function of the gut microbiota of Francois’ langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi) depend on the environment and diet
Authors: Sun Yue , Yu Yanze , Wu Ankang , Zhang Chao , Liu Xun , Qian Changjiang , Li Jianfeng , Ran Jingcheng
Published: November 2023

The microbiota is essential for the extraction of energy and nutrition from plant-based diets and may have facilitated primate adaptation to new dietary niches in response to rapid environmental shifts. In this study, metagenomic sequencing technology was used to analyze the compositional structure and functional differences of the gut microbial community of Francois’ langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi) under different environmental and dietary conditions. The results showed that in terms of the composition of the gut microbial community, there were significant differences among the gut microbiota of Francois’ langurs (anthropogenic disturbed populations, wild populations, and captive populations) under different environmental and dietary conditions. The microbial communities with the highest abundance in Francois’ langurs were Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Firmicutes was the most abundant phylum in anthropogenic disturbed Francois’ langurs and the least abundant in captive Francois’ langurs. The abundance of Bacteroidetes was highest in captive Francois’ langurs. In the analysis and comparison of alpha diversity, the diversity of the gut microbiota of Francois’ langurs affected by anthropogenic disturbance was the highest. The significant differences in gut microbiota between Francois’ langurs in different environments and different diets were further supported by principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), with the disturbance group having a gut microbiota more similar to the wild group. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional annotation analysis indicated a high abundance of functional genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, replication and repair, cofactor and vitamin metabolism, and other amino acid metabolism pathways. Additionally, the functional genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism pathways were significantly enriched in the gut microbial community of Francois’ langurs that were anthropogenic disturbed and captive. The gut microbiota of the Francois’ langurs exhibited potential plasticity for dietary flexibility, and long-term food availability in captive populations leads to changes in gut microbiota composition and function. This study explored the composition and function of the gut microbiota of Francois’ langurs and provided a scientific basis for understanding the physiological and health status of Francois’ langurs, effectively protecting the population of wild Francois’ langurs and reintroducing captive Francois’ langurs into the wild.
A long-awaited taxogenomic investigation of the family Halomonadaceae
Authors: de la Haba Rafael R. , Arahal David R. , Sánchez-Porro Cristina , Chuvochina Maria , Wittouck Stijn , Hugenholtz Philip , Ventosa Antonio
Published: November 2023

The familyHalomonadaceaeis the largest family composed of halophilic bacteria, with more than 160 species with validly published names as of July 2023. Several classifications to circumscribe this family are available in major resources, such as those provided by the List of Prokaryotic names with Standing in Nomenclature (LPSN), NCBI Taxonomy, Genome Taxonomy Database (GTDB), and Bergey’s Manual of Systematics of Archaea and Bacteria (BMSAB), with some degree of disagreement between them. Moreover, regardless of the classification adopted, the genusHalomonasis not phylogenetically consistent, likely because it has been used as a catch-all for newly described species within the familyHalomonadaceaethat could not be clearly accommodated in otherHalomonadaceaegenera. In the past decade, some taxonomic rearrangements have been conducted on theHalomonadaceaebased on ribosomal and alternative single-copy housekeeping gene sequence analysis. High-throughput technologies have enabled access to the genome sequences of many type strains belonging to the familyHalomonadaceae; however, genome-based studies specifically addressing its taxonomic status have not been performed to date. In this study, we accomplished the genome sequencing of 17 missing type strains ofHalomonadaceaespecies that, together with other publicly available genome sequences, allowed us to re-evaluate the genetic relationship, phylogeny, and taxonomy of the species and genera within this family. The approach followed included the estimate of the Overall Genome Relatedness Indexes (OGRIs) such as the average amino acid identity (AAI), phylogenomic reconstructions using amino acid substitution matrices customized for the familyHalomonadaceae, and the analysis of clade-specific signature genes. Based on our results, we conclude that the genusHalovibriois obviously out of place within the familyHalomonadaceae,and, on the other hand, we propose a division of the genusHalomonasinto seven separate genera and the transfer of seven species fromHalomonasto the genusModicisalibacter, together with the emendation of the latter. Additionally, data from this study demonstrate the existence of various synonym species names in this family.
Refinement of IntelliCage protocols for complex cognitive tasks through replacement of drinking restrictions by incentive-disincentive paradigms
Authors: Ma Xueqian , Schildknecht Beatrice , Steiner Adrian C. , Amrein Irmgard , Nigri Martina , Bramati Giulia , Wolfer David P.
Published: November 2023

The IntelliCage allows automated testing of cognitive abilities of mice in a social home cage environment without handling by human experimenters. Restricted water access in combination with protocols in which only correct responses give access to water is a reliable learning motivator for hippocampus-dependent tasks assessing spatial memory and executive function. However, water restriction may negatively impact on animal welfare, especially in poor learners. To better comply with the 3R principles, we previously tested protocols in which water was freely available but additional access to sweetened water could be obtained by learning a task rule. While this purely appetitive motivation worked for simple tasks, too many mice lost interest in the sweet reward during more difficult hippocampus-dependent tasks. In the present study, we tested a battery of increasingly difficult spatial tasks in which water was still available without learning the task rule, but rendered less attractive either by adding bitter tasting quinine or by increasing the amount of work to obtain it. As in previous protocols, learning of the task rule provided access to water sweetened with saccharin. The two approaches of dual motivation were tested in two cohorts of female C57BL/6 N mice. Compared to purely appetitive motivation, both novel protocols strongly improved task engagement and increased task performance. Importantly, neither of the added disincentives had an adverse impact on liquid consumption, health status or body weight of the animals. Our results show that it is possible to refine test protocols in the IntelliCage so that they challenge cognitive functions without restricting access to water.
Current trends and future perspectives of stroke management through integrating health care team and nanodrug delivery strategy
Authors: Han Xuelu , Qin Yingxin , Mei Chunli , Jiao Feitong , Khademolqorani Sanaz , Nooshin Banitaba Seyedeh
Published: November 2023

Stroke is accounted as the second-most mortality and adult disability factor in worldwide, while causes the bleeding promptly and lifetime consequences. The employed functional recovery after stroke is highly variable, allowing to deliver proper interventions to the right stroke patient at a specific time. Accordingly, the multidisciplinary nursing team, and the administrated drugs are major key-building-blocks to enhance stroke treatment efficiency. Regarding the healthcare team, adequate continuum of care have been declared as an integral part of the treatment process from the pre-hospital, in-hospital, to acute post-discharge phases. As a curative perspective, drugs administration is also vital in surviving at the early step and reducing the probability of disabilities in later. In this regard, nanotechnology-based medicinal strategy is exorbitantly burgeoning. In this review, we have highlighted the effectiveness of current clinical care considered by nursing teams to treat stroke. Also, the advancement of drugs through synthesis of miniaturized nanodrug formations relating stroke treatment is remarked. Finally, the remained challenges toward standardizing the healthcare team and minimizing the nanodrugs downsides are discussed. The findings ensure that future works on normalizing the healthcare nursing teams integrated with artificial intelligence technology, as well as advancing the operative nanodrugs can provide value-based stroke cares.
Action-rule-based cognitive control enables efficient execution of stimulus–response conflict tasks: a model validation of Simon task performance
Authors: Otani Yoshitaka , Katagiri Yoshitada , Imai Emiko , Kowa Hisatomo
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The human brain can flexibly modify behavioral rules to optimize task performance (speed and accuracy) by minimizing cognitive load. To show this flexibility, we propose an action-rule-based cognitive control (ARC) model. The ARC model was based on a stochastic framework consistent with an active inference of the free energy principle, combined with schematic brain network systems regulated by the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), to develop several hypotheses for demonstrating the validity of the ARC model.

Methods

A step-motion Simon task was developed involving congruence or incongruence between important symbolic information (illustration of a foot labeled “L” or “R,” where “L” requests left and “R” requests right foot movement) and irrelevant spatial information (whether the illustration is actually of a left or right foot). We made predictions for behavioral and brain responses to testify to the theoretical predictions.

Results

Task responses combined with event-related deep-brain activity (ER-DBA) measures demonstrated a key contribution of the dACC in this process and provided evidence for the main prediction that the dACC could reduce the Shannon surprise term in the free energy formula by internally reversing the irrelevant rapid anticipatory postural adaptation. We also found sequential effects with modulated dip depths of ER-DBA waveforms that support the prediction that repeated stimuli with the same congruency can promote remodeling of the internal model through the information gain term while counterbalancing the surprise term.

Discussion

Overall, our results were consistent with experimental predictions, which may support the validity of the ARC model. The sequential effect accompanied by dip modulation of ER-DBA waveforms suggests that cognitive cost is saved while maintaining cognitive performance in accordance with the framework of the ARC based on 1-bit congruency-dependent selective control.
Hybrid transfer learning strategy for cross-subject EEG emotion recognition
Authors: Lu Wei , Liu Haiyan , Ma Hua , Tan Tien-Ping , Xia Lingnan
Published: November 2023

Emotion recognition constitutes a pivotal research topic within affective computing, owing to its potential applications across various domains. Currently, emotion recognition methods based on deep learning frameworks utilizing electroencephalogram (EEG) signals have demonstrated effective application and achieved impressive performance. However, in EEG-based emotion recognition, there exists a significant performance drop in cross-subject EEG Emotion recognition due to inter-individual differences among subjects. In order to address this challenge, a hybrid transfer learning strategy is proposed, and the Domain Adaptation with a Few-shot Fine-tuning Network (DFF-Net) is designed for cross-subject EEG emotion recognition. The first step involves the design of a domain adaptive learning module specialized for EEG emotion recognition, known as the Emo-DA module. Following this, the Emo-DA module is utilized to pre-train a model on both the source and target domains. Subsequently, fine-tuning is performed on the target domain specifically for the purpose of cross-subject EEG emotion recognition testing. This comprehensive approach effectively harnesses the attributes of domain adaptation and fine-tuning, resulting in a noteworthy improvement in the accuracy of the model for the challenging task of cross-subject EEG emotion recognition. The proposed DFF-Net surpasses the state-of-the-art methods in the cross-subject EEG emotion recognition task, achieving an average recognition accuracy of 93.37% on the SEED dataset and 82.32% on the SEED-IV dataset.
Considerable effects of lateralization and aging in intracortical excitation and inhibition
Authors: Bai Zhongfei , Zhu Feifei , Lou Xiaoyu , Zhang Jack Jiaqi , Jin Minxia , Qin Wenting , Tang Chaozheng , Li Jie , Lu Jiani , Lin Jianhua , Jin Lingjing , Qi Qi , Fong Kenneth N. K.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Findings based on the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation and electromyography (TMS-EMG) to determine the effects of motor lateralization and aging on intracortical excitation and inhibition in the primary motor cortex (M1) are inconsistent in the literature. TMS and electroencephalography (TMS-EEG) measures the excitability of excitatory and inhibitory circuits in the brain cortex without contamination from the spine and muscles. This study aimed to investigate the effects of motor lateralization (dominant and non-dominant hemispheres) and aging (young and older) and their interaction effects on intracortical excitation and inhibition within the M1 in healthy adults, measured using TMS-EMG and TMS-EEG.

Methods

This study included 21 young (mean age = 28.1 ± 3.2 years) and 21 older healthy adults (mean age = 62.8 ± 4.2 years). A battery of TMS-EMG measurements and single-pulse TMS-EEG were recorded for the bilateral M1.

Results

Two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to investigate lateralization and aging and the lateralization-by-aging interaction effect on neurophysiological outcomes. The non-dominant M1 presented a longer cortical silent period and larger amplitudes of P60, N100, and P180. Corticospinal excitability in older participants was significantly reduced, as supported by a larger resting motor threshold and lower motor-evoked potential amplitudes. N100 amplitudes were significantly reduced in older participants, and the N100 and P180 latencies were significantly later than those in young participants. There was no significant lateralization-by-aging interaction effect in any outcome.

Conclusion

Lateralization and aging have independent and significant effects on intracortical excitation and inhibition in healthy adults. The functional decline of excitatory and inhibitory circuits in the M1 is associated with aging.
Electroencephalogram measured functional connectivity for delirium detection: a systematic review
Authors: Hanna Angelica , Jirsch Jeffrey , Alain Claude , Corvinelli Sara , Lee Jacques S.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Delirium is an acute alteration of consciousness marked by confusion, inattention, and changes in cognition. Some speculate that delirium may be a disorder of functional connectivity, but the requirement to lay still may limit measurement with existing functional imaging modalities in this population. Electroencephalography (EEG) may allow for a more feasible approach to the study of potential connectivity disturbances in delirium. We conducted a systematic review to investigate whether there are EEG-measurable differences in brain functional connectivity in the resting state associated with delirium.

Methods

Medline, PubMed, PsychInfo, Embase and CINAHL were searched for relevant articles containing original data studying EEG functional connectivity measures in delirium.

Results

The search yielded 1,516 records. Following strict inclusion criteria, four studies were included in the review. The studies used a variety of EEG measures including phase lag index, coherence, entropy, shortest path length, minimum spanning tree, and network clustering coefficients to study functional connectivity between scalp electrodes. Across connectivity measures, delirium was associated with decreased brain functional connectivity. All four studies found decreased alpha band connectivity for patients with delirium. None of the studies directly compared the different motor subtypes of delirium.

Significance

This systematic review provides converging evidence for disturbances in oscillatory-based functional connectivity in delirium.
Ketone bodies mediate alterations in brain energy metabolism and biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ramezani Matin , Fernando Malika , Eslick Shaun , Asih Prita R. , Shadfar Sina , Bandara Ekanayaka M. S. , Hillebrandt Heidi , Meghwar Silochna , Shahriari Maryam , Chatterjee Pratishtha , Thota Rohith , Dias Cintia B. , Garg Manohar L. , Martins Ralph N.
Published: November 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. AD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive dysfunction, including learning and memory deficits, and behavioral changes. Neuropathology hallmarks of AD such as amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles containing the neuron-specific protein tau is associated with changes in fluid biomarkers including Aβ, phosphorylated tau (p-tau)-181, p-tau 231, p-tau 217, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament light (NFL). Another pathological feature of AD is neural damage and hyperactivation of astrocytes, that can cause increased pro-inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress. In addition, reduced brain glucose metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction appears up to 15 years before the onset of clinical AD symptoms. As glucose utilization is compromised in the brain of patients with AD, ketone bodies (KBs) may serve as an alternative source of energy. KBs are generated from the β-oxidation of fatty acids, which are enhanced following consumption of ketogenic diets with high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate. KBs have been shown to cross the blood brain barrier to improve brain energy metabolism. This review comprehensively summarizes the current literature on how increasing KBs support brain energy metabolism. In addition, for the first time, this review discusses the effects of ketogenic diet on the putative AD biomarkers such as Aβ, tau (mainly p-tau 181), GFAP, and NFL, and discusses the role of KBs on neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial metabolism.
Induced radioactivity in AB-BNCT: an analysis of the different facilities worldwide
Authors: Capoulat M. E. , Kreiner A. J.
Published: November 2023

The global effort to establish Accelerator-Based Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (AB-BNCT) facilities involves various accelerator technologies and neutron-producing targets, each characterized by different properties of the primary beam and neutron spectra they generate. With an emphasis on long-term sustainability, it is essential to minimize the production of residual radioactivity to the lowest possible level, particularly given their intended use in a hospital environment. This paper aims to quantitatively assess the residual radioactivity in these facilities, taking into account both primary and secondary activation. Primary activation primarily arises from the interaction of the proton or deuteron beam and the neutron-producing target. Secondary activation results from neutron-induced reactions on the elements exposed to the neutron flux, with the Beam Shaping Assembly (BSA) being the most exposed one. To assess activation, we evaluated a representative group of target-BSA configurations. Primary activation was calculated based on cross-sectional data and the corresponding target materials. Neutron activation was assessed using Monte Carlo simulations with the MCNP 6.1 code. Regarding target activation, our findings indicate that 9Be targets working with protons of less than 10 MeV represent the cleanest option, while 7Li targets working with protons lead to the highest activation levels. As for BSA activation, the neutron energy is a crucial factor. In the case of standard BSA materials, higher neutron energy results in an increased number of potential reactions that produce radioactive products. Additionally, our findings suggest that radioactivity induced by impurities and minor components in alloyed materials cannot be disregarded and must be taken into account in radioactivity calculations. In summary, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of activation of the commonly used targets and BSA materials, aimed at contributing to the optimization of AB-BNCT facilities from a radiological perspective.
Investigating the dietary intentions of Iranian tourists regarding the consumption of local food
Authors: Mohammadian Pouri Maryam , Rahimian Mehdi , Gholamrezai Saeed
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Attention to local food among tourists is increasing day by day. However, studies on the behavior and intention of tourists towards consuming these foods are few. Limited studies in this field prompted us to help fill the research gap by doing this research.

Methods

This study aims to use the extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) by adding risk perception (RP) to investigate the tourists’ intentions towards local food (TILF) in Iran. The extended model tested 313 tourists visiting local food supplies.

Results

Results show that the extended TPB explains 87.8% of tourist intention variance. Three variables of the original TPB had positive impacts on tourists’ intentions. A notable result of this study was the realization of a negative relationship between RP and TILF.

Discussion

This research has provided recommendations to strengthen tourists’ intentions toward local foods by influencing their attitudes, mental beliefs, perceived behavioral control, and risk perception.
Precision strikes: PSMA-targeted radionuclide therapy in prostate cancer – a narrative review
Authors: Szponar Paweł , Petrasz Piotr , Brzeźniakiewicz-Janus Katarzyna , Drewa Tomasz , Zorga Piotr , Adamowicz Jan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Radio-ligand targeted therapy is a new and promising concept of treatment Castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Only a few radio-pharmaceutics were approved for usage in treating prostate cancer, among the multiple others tested. We aimed to review and summarize the literature on the therapeutic isotopes specific for PSMA.

Methods

We performed a scoping literature review of PubMed from January 1996 to December 2022.

Results

98 publications were selected for inclusion in this review. The studies contained in publications allowed to summarize the data on pharmacokinetics, therapeutic effects, side effects and the medical use of 225Ac and 177Lu radionuclides. The review also presents new research directions for specific PSMA radionuclides.

Conclusion

Radioligand targeted therapy is a new and promising concept where Lu-177-PSMA-617 have promising outcomes in treatment according to standard of care.
Dye coupling of horizontal cells in the primate retina
Authors: Pan Feng , Massey Stephen C.
Published: November 2023

In the monkey retina, there are two distinct types of axon-bearing horizontal cells, known as H1 and H2 horizontal cells (HCs). In this study, cell bodies were prelabled using 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI), and both H1 and H2 horizontal cells were filled with Neurobiotin™ to reveal their coupling, cellular details, and photoreceptor contacts. The confocal analysis of H1 and H2 HCs was used to assess the colocalization of terminal dendrites with glutamate receptors at cone pedicles. After filling H1 somas, a large coupled mosaic of H1 cells was labeled. The dendritic terminals of H1 cells contacted red/green cone pedicles, with the occasional sparse contact with blue cone pedicles observed. The H2 cells were also dye-coupled. They had larger dendritic fields and lower densities. The dendritic terminals of H2 cells preferentially contacted blue cone pedicles, but additional contacts with nearly all cones within the dendritic field were still observed. The red/green cones constitute 99% of the input to H1 HCs, whereas H2 HCs receive a more balanced input, which is composed of 58% red/green cones and 42% blue cones. These observations confirm those made in earlier studies on primate horizontal cells by Dacey and Goodchild in 1996. Both H1 and H2 HCs were axon-bearing. H1 axon terminals (H1 ATs) were independently coupled and contacted rod spherules exclusively. In contrast, the H2 axon terminals contacted cones, with some preference for blue cone pedicles, as reported by Chan and Grünert in 1998. The primate retina contains three independently coupled HC networks in the outer plexiform layer (OPL), identified as H1 and H2 somatic dendrites, and H1 ATs. At each cone pedicle, the colocalization of both H1 and H2 dendritic tips with GluA4 subunits close to the cone synaptic ribbons indicates that glutamate signaling from the cones to H1 and H2 horizontal cells is mediated by α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors.
Characterizing the rod pathway in cone-dominant thirteen-lined ground squirrels
Authors: Ferguson Riley , Miyagishima Kiyoharu J. , Nadal-Nicolas Francisco M. , Li Wei
Published: November 2023

AII-amacrine cells (AIIs) are widely accepted as a critical element of scotopic pathways mediating night vision in the mammalian retina and have been well-characterized in rod-dominant mice, rabbits, and non-human primates. The rod pathway is characteristic of all mammalian eyes, however, the anatomic and physiologic role of AIIs and the rod pathways in cone dominant thirteen-lined ground squirrels (TLGS) is limited. Here, we employed both immunohistochemistry and electrophysiological approaches to investigate the morphology of AIIs and functional aspects of the rod pathway in TLGS. In all TLGS retinas examined, putative AIIs were calretinin-positive and exhibited connections to rod bipolar cells with decreased cell density and expanded arborization. Notably, AIIs retained connections with each other via gap junctions labeled with Connexin36. Comparisons between single photoreceptor recordings and full-field electroretinograms revealed scotopic ERG responses were mediated by both rods and cones. Thus, the components of the rod pathway are conserved in TLGS and rod signals traverse the retina in these cone-dominant animals. AIIs are sparsely populated, matching the diminished rod and rod bipolar cell populations compared to rod-dominant species. The infrequent distribution and lateral spacing of AII’s indicate that they probably do not play a significant role in cone signaling pathways that encode information at a finer spatial scale. This contrasts with the mouse retina, where they significantly contribute to cone signaling pathways. Therefore, the AII’s original function is likely that of a ‘rod’ amacrine cell, and its role in cone pathways in the mouse retina might be an adaptive feature stemming from its rod dominance.
Praziquantel activates a native cation current in Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Chulkov Evgeny G. , Rohr Claudia M. , Marchant Jonathan S.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Praziquantel (PZQ), an anthelmintic drug discovered in the 1970s, is still used to treat schistosomiasis and various other infections caused by parasitic flatworms. PZQ causes a triad of phenotypic effects on schistosome worms – rapid depolarization, muscle contraction, and damage throughout the worm tegument. The molecular target mediating these effects has been intimated as a Ca2+-permeable ion channel, but native currents evoked by PZQ have not been reported in any schistosome cell type. The properties of the endogenous PZQ activated conductance therefore remain unknown.

Methods

Here, invasive electrophysiology was used to probe for responses to PZQ from different locales in a living schistosome worm.

Results and discussion

No direct response was seen in tegument-derived vesicles, or from the sub-tegumental muscle layer despite the presence of voltage-operated currents. However, PZQ rapidly triggered a sustained, non-selective cation current in recordings from neuronal tissue, targeting both the anterior ganglion and the main longitudinal nerve cord. The biophysical signature of this PZQ-evoked current resolved at single channel resolution matched that of a transient receptor potential ion channel named TRPMPZQ, recently proposed as the molecular target of PZQ. The endogenous PZQ-evoked current was also inhibited by a validated TRPMPZQ antagonist. PZQ therefore is a neuroactive anthelmintic, causing a sustained depolarization through ion channels with the characteristics of TRPMPZQ.
A novel small molecule, CU05-1189, targeting the pleckstrin homology domain of PDK1 suppresses VEGF-mediated angiogenesis and tumor growth by blocking the Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Park Jeongeun , Zhang Haiying , Kwak Hyun Jung , Gadhe Changdev Gorakshnath , Kim Yeomyeong , Kim Hyejeong , Noh Minyoung , Shin Dongyun , Ha Sang-Jun , Kwon Young-Guen
Published: November 2023

Inhibition of angiogenesis is considered a promising therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. Our previous genetic research showed that the use of a cell-penetrating peptide to inhibit the pleckstrin homology (PH) domain of 3-phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1 (PDK1) was a viable approach to suppress pathological angiogenesis. Herein, we synthesized and characterized a novel small molecule, CU05-1189, based on our prior study and present evidence for the first time that this compound possesses antiangiogenic properties both in vitro and in vivo. The computational analysis showed that CU05-1189 can interact with the PH domain of PDK1, and it significantly inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells without apparent toxicity. Western blot analysis revealed that the Akt signaling pathway was specifically inhibited by CU05-1189 upon VEGF stimulation, without affecting other VEGF receptor 2 downstream molecules or cytosolic substrates of PDK1, by preventing translocation of PDK1 to the plasma membrane. We also found that CU05-1189 suppressed VEGF-mediated vascular network formation in a Matrigel plug assay. More importantly, CU05-1189 had a good pharmacokinetic profile with a bioavailability of 68%. These results led to the oral administration of CU05-1189, which resulted in reduced tumor microvessel density and growth in a xenograft mouse model. Taken together, our data suggest that CU05-1189 may have great potential and be a promising lead as a novel antiangiogenic agent for cancer treatment.
Optimal concentration of ropivacaine for brachial plexus blocks in adult patients undergoing upper limb surgeries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Lin , Zhang Weiyi , Zhang Xiangdong , Wu Yinglong , Qu Hua , Zhang Donghang , Wei Yiyong
Published: November 2023

Aim of the Study: Brachial plexus block (BPB) is widely used for patients undergoing upper limb surgeries. Ropivacaine is the most commonly used local anesthetic for BPB. This study aimed to identify the optimal ropivacaine concentration for BPB in adult patients undergoing upper limb surgeries.

Materials and Methods: PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effects of different concentrations of ropivacaine for BPB in adult patients undergoing upper limb surgeries. The primary outcomes were the onset time of sensory and motor block. RevMan 5.4 software was used for analysis. The GRADE approach was used to assess evidence quality.

Results: Nine studies involving 504 patients were included. Compared to 0.5% ropivacaine, 0.75% ropivacaine shortened the onset time of sensory (WMD, −2.54; 95% CI; −4.84 to −0.24; <0.0001, moderate quality of evidence) and motor blockade (WMD, −2.46; 95% CI, −4.26 to −0.66; p = 0.01; moderate quality of evidence). However, 0.5% and 0.75% ropivacaine provided similar duration time of sensory (WMD, −0.07; 95% CI, −0.88 to 0.74; p = 0.81; high quality of evidence) and motor blockade (WMD, −0.24; 95% CI, −1.12 to 0.65; p = 0.55; high quality of evidence), as well as time to first request for oral analgesia (WMD, −1.57; 95% CI, −3.14 to 0.01; p = 0.5; moderate quality of evidence).

Conclusion: Moderate-quality evidence suggested that, in terms of the onset time of sensory and motor blockade, 0.75% ropivacaine is a preferred concentration for BPB in upper limb surgeries.

Systematic Review Registration: identifier CRD42023392145.
Wnt pathway in bone: knowledge structure and hot spots from 1993 to 2022
Authors: Liu Tun , Zhao Jiaxin , Zhang Xinyi , Wang Yulin , Wang Wei , Song Jidong
Published: November 2023

Background: The role of the Wnt pathway in bone and its targets in skeletal disease has garnered interest, but the field lacks a systematic analysis of research. This paper presents a bibliometric study of publications related to the Wnt signaling pathway in bone to describe the current state of study and predict future outlooks.

Methods: All relevant articles and reviews from 1993 to 2022 were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Bibliometric analysis and visualization were performed using CiteSpace 6.1 R3, VOSviewer 1.6.15, and the Online Analysis Platform of Literature Metrology (http://bibliometric.com/).

Results: A total of 7,184 papers were retrieved, authored by 28,443 researchers from 89 countries/regions and published in 261 academic journals. The annual publication numbers peaked in 2021. China and United States are the leading countries, with the University of California and Harvard University as the most active institutions. Wang, Yang is the most prolific author. Bone has the most published research, while Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States is the most cited journal on average. The main keywords include expression, Wnt, osteoporosis, bone, and osteogenic differentiation. Current and developing research hotspots focus on bone mass, sclerostin antibody, multiple myeloma, and cartilage development.

Conclusion: This paper provides new insights for researchers to delve into the mechanisms of Wnt and bone related diseases and translate into clinical studies. It reveals the development and future research trends in Wnt and skeletal-related studies.
Promoter and domain structures regulate FLA12 function during Arabidopsis secondary wall development
Authors: Ma Yingxuan , Ratcliffe Julian , Bacic Antony , Johnson Kim L.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Fasciclin-like arabinogalactan-proteins (FLAs) are a family of multi-domain glycoproteins present at the cell surface and walls of plants. Arabidopsis thaliana FLA12 and homologs in cotton, Populus, and flax have been shown to play important functions regulating secondary cell wall (SCW) development. FLA12 has been shown to have distinct roles from the closely related FLA11 that also functions during SCW development. The promoter and domain features of FLA12 that regulate functional specificity have not been well characterized.

Methods

In this study, promoter swap experiments of FLA11 and FLA12 were investigated. Mutation of proposed functional regions within FLA12 were used to investigate the role of post-translational modifications on sub-cellular location and trafficking. Domain swap experiments between FLA11 and FLA12 were performed to identify regions of functional specificity.

Results

Promote swap experiments showed that FLA12 is differentially expressed in both stem and rosette leaves compared to FLA11. Post-translational modifications, in particular addition of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchor (GPI-anchor), were shown to be important for FLA12 location at the plasma membrane (PM)/cell wall interface. Domain swap experiments between FLA11 and FLA12 showed that the C-terminal arabinogalactan (AG) glycan motif acts as a key regulatory region differentiating FLA12 functions from FLA11.

Discussion

Understanding of FLA12 promoter and functional domains has provided new insights into the regulation of SCW development and functional specificity of FLAs for plant growth and development.
Mineralization mechanism of organic carbon in maize rhizosphere soil of soft rock and sand mixed soil under different fertilization modes
Authors: Guo Zhen , Han Jichang , Zhang Yang , Wang Huanyuan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

This article endeavors to investigate the influence of various fertilization methods on the characteristics of rhizosphere soil and organic carbon mineralization in the mixed soil of Mu Us Sandy land under maize cultivation, with the objective of laying the groundwork for low-carbon agriculture and the development of high-quality farmland.

Methods

The research focuses on soft rock and sand composite soil with a 1:2 ratio, and it comprises four treatments: no fertilization (CK), only chemical fertilization (CF), only cattle manure application (MF), and only oil residue application (DF).

Results

The findings revealed that the use of organic fertilizer substantially elevated nutrient content and enzyme activity in the maize rhizosphere soil. Furthermore, it had a notable influence on both soil aggregate diameter and stability. Specifically, the DF treatment led to a significant increase in both soil aggregate diameter and stability. The mineralization rate of organic carbon in the maize rhizosphere soil could be categorized into two distinct phases: a rapid initial decline followed by a slower release. By the end of the incubation period, the cumulative mineralization of organic carbon in the MF, DF, and CF treatments showed a significant increase of 119.87%, 57.57%, and 24.15%, respectively, in comparison to the CK treatment. Additionally, the mineralization rate constants of the DF and MF treatments experienced a substantial rise, with increments of 23.52% and 45.97%, respectively, when contrasted with the CK treatment. The bacterial phyla Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteriota, and Firmicutes were dominant in the rhizosphere soil bacterial community. Specific genera such as Nocardioides and Sphingomonas showed significant correlations with organic carbon mineralization. The application of different organic fertilizer can improve soil physical, chemical and biological properties, and promote the mineralization process of organic carbon in maize rhizosphere soil.

Discussion

Notably, the DF treatment exhibited the most favorable outcome, improving the overall quality of maize rhizosphere soil while incurring a minimal loss of unit organic carbon. These findings hold significant implications for optimizing field management practices and augmenting soil quality.
Giving more detailed information about health insurance encourages consumers to choose compromise options
Authors: Chick Stephen E. , Hawkins Scott A. , Soberman David
Published: November 2023

Introduction

To investigate how the provision of additional information about the health events and procedures covered by a healthcare plan affect the level of coverage chosen by young adults taking their first full time job.

Methods

University students were recruited for a study at two behavioral laboratories (one located at the University of Toronto and the other located at INSEAD-Sorbonne University in Paris) in which they imagine they are making choices about the healthcare coverage associated with the taking a new job in Chicago, Illinois. Every participant made choices in four categories: Physician Care, Clinical Care, Hospital Care, and Dental Care. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: Low Detail or High Detail coverage information and they chose between three levels of coverage: Basic, Enhanced, and Superior. The study took place in March 2017 with 120 students in Toronto and 121 students in Paris.

Results

The provision of more detailed information about the health events and procedures covered by a healthcare plan leads to a compromise effect in which participants shift their choices significantly towards Enhanced (moderate coverage) from Basic (low coverage) and Superior (high coverage). The compromise effect was observed at both locations; however, Paris participants choose significantly higher levels of coverage than Toronto participants.

Discussion

Providing more detail to employees about the health events and procedures covered by a healthcare plan will increase the fraction of employees who choose the intermediate level of coverage. It is beyond the scope of this study to conclude whether this is good or bad; however, in a context where employees gravitate to either insufficient or excessive coverage, providing additional detail may reduce these tendencies.
The effect of the partnership between DanceSport couples on competitive performance: the mediating role of athlete engagement
Authors: Liu Xiuxia , Wu Bo , Weng Xinghe , Shan Qi
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Although the positive association of partnership between DanceSport couples with competitive performance (CP) is documented, less is known about the mediating factors of this relationship. According to the related literature and self-determination theory (SDT), the present study finds and verifies that athlete engagement (AE) mediates the association between partnership and competitive performance.

Methods

A total of 242 Chinese sports dancers were recruited using the purposive sampling method. The Partnership Scale-DanceSport Couples (PS-DSC), the Athlete Engagement Questionnaire (AEQ), and the Competitive Performance Questionnaire (CPQ) were adopted to collect data.

Results

The obligatory instrumental ties, expressive ties, and interpersonal perception scores are all positively correlated with both athlete engagement and competitive performance, and athlete engagement scores are positively correlated with competitive performance. Athlete engagement completely mediates the association between obligatory instrumental ties and competitive performance, and it partially mediates the association between expressive ties, interpersonal perception, and competitive performance, with the mediating effect accounting for 25.29 and 24.40% of the total effect, respectively.

Conclusion

Athlete engagement mediates the association between DanceSport couples’ partnership and competitive performance. High levels of athlete engagement are needed to improve the chance of promoting obligatory instrumental ties, expressive ties, and interpersonal perception between DanceSport couples toward excellent competitive performance. Overall, the results represent an attempt to extend our understanding of the mechanisms by which the three partnership stereotype factors individually influence dancers’ cognitive and psychological states.
Restricted and repetitive behaviors and association with cognition and adaptive functioning in children with autism spectrum disorder in Singapore
Authors: Lin Wanyun , Chan Yiong Huak , Kiing Jennifer S. H. , Lim Tammy S. H. , Chong Shang Chee , Kang Ying Qi , Aishworiya Ramkumar , Mulay Kalyani Vijayakumar , Tan Mae Yue
Published: November 2023

Background

One of the core features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests and activities (RRBs). RRBs are known to adversely affect cognition and adaptive functioning. We explored the relationship of RRBs with cognition and adaptive functioning in children with ASD in an Asian setting.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary developmental pediatrics center in Singapore from September 2019 to October 2021. Parent-child dyads (parents and their children ≤7 years old diagnosed with ASD) were recruited. Parents completed the Repetitive Behavior Questionnaire-2 (RBQ-2), which reports total score and two subscales – Motor/Sensory Behaviors (RBQ-2 MS) and Rigidity/Routines/Preoccupation with Restricted Interests (RBQ-2 RRPRI). Standardized assessments included Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS-II). Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation.

Results

Parents of 113 children [75.2% male, mean (SD) age 5.0 (1.2) years] participated. Median (IQR) RBQ-2 score was 29.0 (11.0). Significant negative correlations (adjusted for age, gender and family history of ASD) were observed for total RBQ-2 scores with MSEL ELC scores (r = −0.248, n = 101, p = 0.014) and VABS-II ABC scores (r = −0.281, n = 88, p = 0.009). Specifically, these correlations of fair strength were seen only with the RBQ-2 MS subscale for both ELC (r = −0.321, n = 101, p = 0.001) and ABC (r = −0.3478, n = 88, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

In children with ASD, severity of RRBs correlated with adverse cognition and adaptive functioning measures in our study, consistent with Western literature. While our study does not show causality, it adds to literature serving as a foundation for further research for both clinicians and researchers to target RRBs in improving outcomes with children in ASD.
Improving testing capacity for COVID-19: experiences and lessons from Senegal, Uganda, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Bosonkie Marc , Egbende Landry , Namale Alice , Fawole Olufunmilayo I. , Seck Ibrahima , Kizito Susan , Kaba Didine , Kiwanuka Suzanne N. , Diallo Issakha , Bello Segun , Kabwama Steven N. , Kashiya Yves , Monje Fred , Dairo M. D. , Bondo Berthold , Namuhani Noel , Leye Mamadou M. M. , Adebowale A. S. , Bassoum Oumar , Bamgboye Eniola A. , Fall Manel , Salawu Mobolaji , Afolabi Rotimi , Ndejjo Rawlance , Wanyenze Rhoda K. , Mapatano Mala Ali
Published: November 2023

Background

African countries leveraged testing capacities to enhance public health action in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper describes experiences and lessons learned during the improvement of testing capacity throughout the COVID-19 response in Senegal, Uganda, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Methods

The four countries’ testing strategies were studied using a mixed-methods approach. Desk research on COVID-19 testing strategies was conducted and complemented by interviewing key informants. The findings were synthesized to demonstrate learning outcomes across the four countries.

Results

The four countries demonstrated severely limited testing capacities at the onset of the pandemic. These countries decentralized COVID-19 testing services by leveraging preexisting laboratory systems such as PCR and GeneXpert used for the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) to address this gap and the related inequities, engaging the private sector, establishing new laboratories, and using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) to expand testing capacity and reduce the turnaround time (TAT). The use of digital platforms improved the TAT. Testing supplies were sourced through partners, although access to global markets was challenging. Case detection remains suboptimal due to high costs, restrictive testing strategies, testing access challenges, and misinformation, which hinder the demand for testing. The TAT for PCR remained a challenge, while RDT use was underreported, although Senegal manufactured RDTs locally. Key findings indicate that regionally coordinated procurement and manufacturing mechanisms are required, that testing modalities must be simplified for improved access, and that the risk-based testing strategy limits comprehensive understanding of the disease burden.

Conclusion

Although testing capacities improved significantly during the pandemic, case detection and access to testing remained suboptimal. The four countries could benefit from further simplification of testing modalities and cost reduction. Local manufacturing and pooled procurement mechanisms for diagnostics are needed for optimal pandemic preparedness and response.