bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel terpolymer nanocomposite (carboxymethyl β-cyclodextrin–nano chitosan–glutaraldehyde) for the potential removal of a textile dye acid red 37 from water
Authors: Elbadawy Hemmat A. , El-Dissouky Ali , Hussein Seham M. , El-Kewaey Sara R. , Elfeky Souad A. , El-Ghannam Gamal
Published: February 2023

Carboxymethyl β-cyclodextrin–nanochitosan–glutaraldehyde (CM-βCD:nChi:Glu) terpolymer was prepared as a nano-adsorbent for the removal of the anionic textile dye, acid red 37. The terpolymer nanocomposite formation and characterization were clarified by FTIR, XRD, scanning electron microscopy, TEM, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller specific surface area (BET-SSA), and zeta potential. The removal of the textile dye was investigated by using the batch adsorption method, investigating the effect of pH, dye concentration, adsorbent dose, contact time, and temperature. The results revealed that the maximum removal efficiency of 102.2 mg/L of the dye is about 99.67% under pH 6.0, the optimal contact time is 5 min, and the adsorbent dosage is 0.5 g/L. At 29°C; the adsorption capacity increased from 81.29 to 332.60 mg/g when the initial concentration of the dye was increased from 40.97 to 212.20 mg/L. Adsorption kinetics fitted well with the pseudo–second-order model with a good correlation (R2 = 0.9998). The Langmuir isotherm model can best describe the adsorption isotherm model. Based on the experimental results, the CM-βCD:nChi:Glu terpolymer has a promising potential as an efficient novel adsorbent for the removal of textile dye acid red 37 from contaminated water. This study’s preparation techniques and demonstrated mechanisms offer valuable insights into the adsorbent–adsorbate interactions mechanism, analysis, challenges, and future directions of beta-cyclodextrin/chitosan–based adsorbents in wastewater treatment.
Phenotypes of peripheral CD4+ T helper cell subsets in pregnant women with HBeAg-negative chronic asymptomatic HBV carriers
Authors: Feng Guofang , Sun Yu , Wang Shifen , Lv Yan , Yan Cuilin , Zhu Yimin , Zheng Yongsheng , Cui Dawei
Published: February 2023

Background

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem worldwide, and mother-to-child transmission is the key mode of HBV infection. CD4+ T helper (Th) cells play a critical role in the immune microenvironment of specific maternal tolerance to the foetus during pregnancy. However, the roles of Th cell subsets in pregnant women (PW) with chronic asymptomatic HBV carriers (ASCs) remain completely unclear. Here, we aimed to characterize CD4+ T-cell immunity in PW with hepatitis Be antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic ASCs.

Methods

Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from PW without HBV infection or with chronic ASCs and healthy controls (HC) were isolated, and CD4+ Th cell subsets were detected by flow cytometry in addition to serum cytokines. Serological HBV markers, liver function and hormone levels of these individuals were also tested.

Results

The frequencies of circulating T follicular helper (Tfh) type 2 (Tfh2) cells were significantly evaluated, but Tfh1 cell frequencies were notably decreased in PW compared to HC. Moreover, the frequencies of Th22 cells were only notably increased in PW with chronic ASCs in comparison with PW. Additionally, increased levels of serum IL-4 were positively correlated with Tfh2 cell frequencies in healthy PW. Interestingly, serum P4 levels were positively associated with the frequencies of circulating Tfh2 or Th2 cells but were negatively related to the frequencies of circulating Tfh17 or Th17 cells in healthy PW. Although there were some changes in the other CD4+ Th cell frequencies and cytokine levels or other references, significant differences were not found among HC, healthy PW, PW with HBeAg-negative chronic ASCs.

Conclusion

CD4+ Th cell subsets played a critical role in the immune microenvironment of PW, and these findings provided potential evidence for why PW with chronic ASCs did not receive antenatal antiviral prophylaxis.
Big data in corneal diseases and cataract: Current applications and future directions
Authors: Ting Darren S. J. , Deshmukh Rashmi , Ting Daniel S. W. , Ang Marcus
Published: February 2023

The accelerated growth in electronic health records (EHR), Internet-of-Things, mHealth, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence (AI) in the recent years have significantly fuelled the interest and development in big data research. Big data refer to complex datasets that are characterized by the attributes of “5 Vs”—variety, volume, velocity, veracity, and value. Big data analytics research has so far benefitted many fields of medicine, including ophthalmology. The availability of these big data not only allow for comprehensive and timely examinations of the epidemiology, trends, characteristics, outcomes, and prognostic factors of many diseases, but also enable the development of highly accurate AI algorithms in diagnosing a wide range of medical diseases as well as discovering new patterns or associations of diseases that are previously unknown to clinicians and researchers. Within the field of ophthalmology, there is a rapidly expanding pool of large clinical registries, epidemiological studies, omics studies, and biobanks through which big data can be accessed. National corneal transplant registries, genome-wide association studies, national cataract databases, and large ophthalmology-related EHR-based registries (e.g., AAO IRIS Registry) are some of the key resources. In this review, we aim to provide a succinct overview of the availability and clinical applicability of big data in ophthalmology, particularly from the perspective of corneal diseases and cataract, the synergistic potential of big data, AI technologies, internet of things, mHealth, and wearable smart devices, and the potential barriers for realizing the clinical and research potential of big data in this field.
An industry perspective on the use of machine learning in drug and vaccine safety
Authors: Painter Jeffery L. , Kassekert Raymond , Bate Andrew
Published: February 2023

In recent years there has been growing interest in the use of machine learning across the pharmacovigilance lifecycle to enhance safety monitoring of drugs and vaccines. Here we describe the scope of industry-based research into the use of machine learning for safety purposes. We conducted an examination of the findings from a previously published systematic review; 393 papers sourced from a literature search from 2000–2021 were analyzed and attributed to either industry, academia, or regulatory authorities. Overall, 33 papers verified to be industry contributions were then assigned to one of six categories representing the most frequent PV functions (data ingestion, disease-specific studies, literature review, real world data, signal detection, and social media). RWD and social media comprised 63% (21/33) of the papers, signal detection and data ingestion comprised 18% (6/33) of the papers, while disease-specific studies and literature reviews represented 12% (4/33) and 6% (2/33) of the papers, respectively. Herein we describe the trends and opportunities observed in industry application of machine learning in pharmacovigilance, along with discussing the potential barriers. We conclude that although progress to date has been uneven, industry is very interested in applying machine learning to the pharmacovigilance lifecycle, which it is hoped may ultimately enhance patient safety.
Experimental tests and theoretical analysis for mechanical behaviors of side wall opening construction in mined excavation subway station
Authors: Hu Zhinan , Mao Hongtao , Zhang Lixin , Liu Zhichun
Published: February 2023

The connection of subway stations to surrounding underground spaces inevitably involves opening construction in the existing underground structure. The opening construction can strongly impact the existing underground structure when there is no reserved condition. In this study, three-dimensional numerical simulation, model test, and theoretical analysis are used to analyze the mechanical behaviors of side wall opening construction in a mined excavation subway station-Xuanwumen Station of Beijing Subway Line 4. Based on the deformation and stress characteristics of the existing side wall structure, two different reinforcement measures are compared. It is found that the vertical and horizontal deformations of the existing structure caused by opening construction is −1.58 and −1.79 mm, respectively, which are lower than the subway deformation control requirements (3 mm). However, the first and third principal stress increments are 2.14 and −4.62 MPa, respectively, which are markedly higher than the control requirement (10%). A “two-step opening” method is proposed for side wall opening construction in underground structures based on the solution of complex function to the orifice problem. This theoretical method is validated by numerical simulations and model tests, achieving highly consistent results. The allowable ultimate span of side wall opening is 5.75 m without reinforcement. Findings of the present study provide a reference for the design and construction of side wall openings in similar underground spaces.
Assessment of progesterone levels on the day of pregnancy test determination: A novel concept toward individualized luteal phase support
Authors: Racca A. , Alvarez M. , Garcia Martinez S. , Rodriguez I. , Gonzalez-Foruria I. , Polyzos NP. , Coroleu B.
Published: February 2023

Research question

The main objective of the study is to define the optimal trade-off progesterone (P4) values on the day of embryo transfer (ET), to identify low P4-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and to establish whether P4 supplementation started on the hCG day can increase the success rate of the frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle.

Design

A single-center, cohort, retrospective study with 664 hormone replacement therapy (HRT)-FET cycles analyzed female patients who received vaginal 600 mg/day of P4 starting from 6 days before the FET, had normal P4 values on the day before ET, and whose P4 on the day of the pregnancy test was assessed.

Results

Of the 664 cycles, 69.6% of cycles showed P4 ≥ 10.6 ng/ml, while 30.4% showed P4 < 10.6 ng/ml on the day of the hCG. Of the 411 chemical pregnancies detected, 71.8% had P4-hCG ≥ 10.6 ng/ml (group A), while 28.2% had P4-hCG < 10.6 ng/ml. Of the cycles with P4-hCG < 10.6 ng/ml, 64.7% (group B) were supplemented with a higher dose of vaginal P4 (1,000 mg/day), while 35.3% (group C) were maintained on the same dose of vaginal micronized P4. The live birth rate was 71.9%, 96%, and 7.3% for groups A, B, and C, respectively.

Conclusion

The likelihood to detect P4-hCG < 10.6 ng/ml decreased as the level of serum P4 the day before ET increased. The live birth rate (LBR) was shown to be significantly lower when P4 was low and not supplemented.
The role of androgens in pressure overload myocardial hypertrophy
Authors: Schafstedde Marie , Nordmeyer Sarah
Published: February 2023

Pressure overload hypertrophy of the left ventricle is a common result of many cardiovascular diseases. Androgens show anabolic effects in skeletal muscles, but also in myocardial hypertrophy. We carefully reviewed literature regarding possible effects of androgens on specific left ventricular hypertrophy in pressure overload conditions excluding volume overload conditions or generel sex differences.
An evaluation method of health condition for wind turbine based on asymmetric proximity
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Xiu Bingjie , Jiang Dongxiao , Zhuang Guanqun , Zhang Yifu , Li Benxin
Published: February 2023

The accurate condition assessment of wind turbines greatly influences the refined asset management and maintenance scheduling of wind farms. To address the challenges of existing assessment methods in selecting the reliability value and determining wind turbine status levels of being in transition, this study proposes a wind turbine condition evaluation method based on asymmetric proximity. Firstly, the state evaluation index system consisting of the wind turbine performance and output state indices is constructed, and the weighting factors are calculated comprehensively by integrating the subjective and objective weights. Then, the membership function of the index layer is established based on the set pair analysis, and the membership of the target layer is deduced by the weighted average operator. Finally, the proximity degrees between status levels and target membership degrees are calculated, and the wind turbine state is determined based on the proximity principle. Case studies demonstrate that the accuracy rate of the proposed method is up to 97%, which is 6% and 8% higher than the maximum membership principle and the reliability criterion, respectively.
Evaluation of the impact of inertia on system operation cost
Authors: Zhou Lin , Wang Hongliang , Wang Yizheng , Zhang Haipeng , Li Wei , Li Ran
Published: February 2023

The inertia of the power system currently lies in a relatively narrow range. However, the increasing penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) will significantly reduce the inertia level, meanwhile increasing its volatility. This will affect the system’s ability to contain the maximum frequency excursion and recover from large frequency disturbances. In order to maintain system frequency security and stability, a common practice is to incorporate frequency security constraints into the unit commitment (UC) model, so a concern is how the volume and volatility of system inertia impact system operation costs and energy clearing prices. Furthermore, inertia forecasting is often required when performing day-ahead UC with frequency security constraints. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the impact of system inertia on system operation costs and energy clearing prices. The experiment is designed under scenarios with different inertia volume, inertia volatility, and inertia forecasting errors. The results show that: 1) Increasing the system inertia volume can effectively reduce the system operation costs and energy clearing prices. 2) Increasing the inertia volatility will lead to an increase in system operation costs and energy clearing prices. 3) The increment of system operation cost caused by positive or negative errors of inertia forecasting is asymmetric.
The legacy of intensive agricultural history on the soil health of (sub)tropical landscapes
Authors: Crow Susan E. , Hubanks Hannah , Deenik Jonathan L. , McClellan Maaz Tai , Tallamy Glazer Christine , Vizka Elaine , Rivera-Zayas Johanie
Published: February 2023

Soil health conceptualized as a measurable ecosystem property provides a powerful tool for monitoring progress in restoration projects or implementation of best management practices to improve degraded lands and promote sustainable agroecosystems. We surveyed soils collected from a range of land uses (i.e., protected native and non-native forest, managed pasture, unmanaged previously intensive agricultural lands, organic cropland, and conventional cropland) across a range of soil orders (Oxisol, Mollisol, Andisol, Inceptisol, and Vertisol) on three Hawaiian Islands. Forty-six soil health indicators encompassing biological, chemical, and physical properties were measured. In this multivariate survey, the most distinct group was the unmanaged, previously intensive agriculture lands, which was significantly different from all other land uses even when considering differences in mineralogy. Importantly, the soil health indicators of well-managed pastures in Hawaiʻi were not different from protected forests, suggesting that well-managed grazing lands may be as healthy and resilient as protected forests. A suite of 11 readily measured indicators emerged out of a first-principle approach to determining a holistic indication of soil health across a range of soils and systems in Hawaiʻi encompassing much of the diversity in the tropics and subtropics. Every land use may improve its soil health status within a reasonable range of expectations for a soil’s land use history, current land use, and mineralogy. Key drivers of inherent differences in the soil health indicators, including intensive land use history, current land use practices, and mineralogy, must be interwoven into the soil health index, which should set minimum and maximum benchmarks and weight indicators according to equitable standards.
The impact of fiscal decentralization and intergovernmental competition on the local government debt risk: Evidence from China
Authors: Huo Xuling , Bi Shulei , Yin Yushi
Published: February 2023

Based on the data of explicit debt and implicit debt of local governments in China from 2012 to 2020, this paper theoretically analyzes and empirically tests the spatial correlation effect of fiscal decentralization and intergovernmental competition on local government debt risk. It’s found that local government debt risk has obvious inertia effect in time and positive spatial correlation effect in space, and local fiscal spending decentralization and intergovernmental competition have a significant positive impact on the local government debt risk, as well as a positive spatial spillover effect. The research of this paper has very important policy implications for perfecting China’s decentralization system, standardizing the competition among governments, and preventing and defusing local government debt risks.
Insight into influence of roots on hydrothermal properties of alpine meadow in Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Hou Min , Zhang Zhihong , Wang Xia
Published: February 2023

The physical and mechanical behavior of alpine meadow in Tibetan Plateau is now attracting widespread attention. In this paper, a series of experiments were conducted to study the influence of roots on hydrothermal behavior of alpine meadow located at Nangqian district, in the east of Tibetan Plateau, China. Root biomass, physical properties and hydrothermal properties were measured at a soil depth of 0–25 cm. The results showed that the root biomass within the depth of 0–15 cm accounts for 86% of the total root biomass. With the increase of soil depth, the root biomass shows a decreasing trend. The hydraulic conductivities and thermal conductivities of alpine meadow soil increase with the decrease of root biomass. There are lower hydraulic conductivity and thermal conductivity of swallow soil (0–5 cm) than that of deep layer soil. For the bottom soil layer, swallow alpine meadow acts as a “cap” and plays a function of ecological barrier of reducing water infiltration and heat transfer. Under the background of global warming, this insight is helpful to understand the relationship between soil hydrothermal properties and natural disasters in Tibetan Plateau.
Hypersensitive-like response in Brassica plants is specifically induced by molecules from egg-associated secretions of cabbage white butterflies
Authors: Caarls Lotte , Bassetti Niccolò , Verbaarschot Patrick , Mumm Roland , van Loon Joop J. A. , Schranz M. Eric , Fatouros Nina E.
Published: February 2023

Plants perceive and respond to herbivore insect eggs. Upon egg deposition on leaves, a strong hypersensitive response (HR)-like cell death can be activated leading to egg desiccation and/or dropping. In Brassica spp., including many crops, the HR-like mechanism against eggs of cabbage white butterflies (Pieris spp.) is poorly understood. Using two Brassica species, the crop B. rapa and its wild relative B. nigra, we studied the cellular and molecular plant response to Pieris brassicae eggs and characterized potential insect egg-associated molecular patterns (EAMPs) inducing HR-like cell death. We found that eggs of P. brassicae induced typical hallmarks of early immune responses, such as callose deposition, production of reactive oxygen species and cell death in B. nigra and B. rapa leaf tissue, also in plants that did not express HR-like cell death. However, elevated levels of ethylene production and upregulation of salicylic acid-responsive genes were only detected in a B. nigra accession expressing HR-like cell death. Eggs and egg wash from P. brassicae contains compounds that induced such responses, but the eggs of the generalist moth Mamestra brassicae did not. Furthermore, wash made from hatched Pieris eggs, egg glue, and accessory reproductive glands (ARG) that produce this glue, induced HR-like cell death, whereas washes from unfertilized eggs dissected from the ovaries or removal of the glue from eggs resulted in no or a reduced response. This suggests that there is one or multiple egg associated molecular pattern (EAMP) located in the egg glue a that teresponse in B. nigra is specific to Pieris species. Lastly, our results indicate that the EAMP is neither lipidic nor proteinaceous. Our study expands the knowledge on the mechanism of Brassica-Pieris-egg interaction and is a step closer toward identification of EAMPs in Pieris egg glue and corresponding receptor(s) in Brassica.
A case of McLeod syndrome caused by a nonsense variation c.942G>A in the XK gene: A case report
Authors: Ying Yanling , Yu Shifang , Zhang Jingjing , He Ji , Xu Xianguo , Hong Xiaozhen , Zhu Faming
Published: February 2023

McLeod syndrome is a rare XK gene-related progressive, debilitating disease involving multiple systems. The blood group phenotypes in McLeod syndrome patients usually display the Kx antigen loss and a decrease in the Kell blood group system antigen expression. This paper describes a 41-year-old male Chinese patient with McLeod syndrome. He first attended a hospital in 2015 and developed progressively worsening symptoms 4 years ago. As the disease progressed, the patient exhibited memory loss, unresponsiveness, and chorea and displayed elevated creatine kinase levels. However, McLeod syndrome could not be diagnosed by these signs and laboratory results. The patient was readmitted to the hospital in 2020 and was suspected of having McLeod syndrome. Serological analysis of the Kell blood group system and genotyping for the XK blood group system were performed, revealing the weak expression of the K antigen and the negative K antigen. Sequencing of the coding region of the XK gene showed a hemizygous c.942G>A variation in the XK gene, which resulted in a premature stop codon at position 314 (p.Trp314Ter). Therefore, the patient was diagnosed with McLeod syndrome. In conclusion, this paper presents a case of McLeod syndrome caused by a nonsense variation c.942G>A in the XK gene. The analysis of the XK gene and blood group antigen is helpful for the diagnosis of McLeod syndrome and for distinguishing it from many other diseases.
Clinical manifestations of 17 Chinese children with hereditary spherocytosis caused by novel mutations of the ANK1 gene and phenotypic analysis
Authors: Kang Meiyun , Li Huimin , Zhu Jun , Zhu Liwen , Hong Yue , Fang Yongjun
Published: February 2023

Background: Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is an autosomal dominant (AD) and autosomal recessive (AR) disorder that is mostly caused by mutations of the erythrocyte membrane-related gene ANK1.

Methods: Clinical and genetic testing data of 17 HS children with ANK1 gene mutations were retrospectively collected. Clinical manifestations and phenotypic analysis of HS were summarized based on our experience and literature review.

Results: A total of 17 mutations of the ANK1 gene were identified from 17 probands (12 sporadic cases and five familial cases), including 15 novel mutations and two previously reported ones. Among the 15 novel variants of ANK1, there were four non-sense mutations, four frameshift mutations, three splicing mutations, three missense mutations and one in-frame deletion of three amino acids. In the present study, HS patients with mutations in membrane binding domains had significantly lower hemoglobin (Hb) levels and higher total bilirubin (T-Bil) levels than those with mutations in regulatory domains. After reviewing and analyzing all available published reports of Chinese HS patients carrying ANK1 mutations in PubMed and Chinese journals, there were no significant differences in Hb, Ret and T-Bil between different mutation types or mutation regions.

Conclusion: Mutations of the ANK1 can be inherited or de novo. Clinical manifestations of HS in children caused by ANK1 mutations are similar to those of other types of hemolytic anemia. Our report expands the mutation spectrum of HS, thus providing references for clinical management and genetic counseling of HS.
Predicting phenotypes of beef eating quality traits
Authors: Forutan Mehrnush , Lynn Andrew , Aliloo Hassan , Clark Samuel A. , McGilchrist Peter , Polkinghorne Rod , Hayes Ben J.
Published: February 2023

Introduction:Phenotype predictions of beef eating quality for individual animals could be used to allocate animals to longer and more expensive feeding regimes as they enter the feedlot if they are predicted to have higher eating quality, and to sort carcasses into consumer or market value categories. Phenotype predictions can include genetic effects (breed effects, heterosis and breeding value), predicted from genetic markers, as well as fixed effects such as days aged and carcass weight, hump height, ossification, and hormone growth promotant (HGP) status.

Methods:Here we assessed accuracy of phenotype predictions for five eating quality traits (tenderness, juiciness, flavour, overall liking and MQ4) in striploins from 1701 animals from a wide variety of backgrounds, includingBos indicusandBos taurusbreeds, using genotypes and simple fixed effects including days aged and carcass weight. The genetic components were predicted based on 709k single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) using BayesR model, which assumes some markers may have a moderate to large effect. Fixed effects in the prediction included principal components of the genomic relationship matrix, to account for breed effects, heterosis, days aged and carcass weight.

Results and Discussion:A model which allowed breed effects to be captured in the SNP effects (e.g., not explicitly fitting these effects) tended to have slightly higher accuracies (0.43–0.50) compared to when these effects were explicitly fitted as fixed effects (0.42–0.49), perhaps because breed effects when explicitly fitted were estimated with more error than when incorporated into the (random) SNP effects. Adding estimates of effects of days aged and carcass weight did not increase the accuracy of phenotype predictions in this particular analysis. The accuracy of phenotype prediction for beef eating quality traits was sufficiently high that such predictions could be useful in predicting eating quality from DNA samples taken from an animal/carcass as it enters the processing plant, to enable optimal supply chain value extraction by sorting product into markets with different quality. The BayesR predictions identified several novel genes potentially associated with beef eating quality.
Developing an obstetric care screening tool to improve social support access for pregnant women: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kawaguchi Haruna , Shinohara Ryoji , Akiyama Yuka , Kushima Megumi , Matsuda Yoshio , Yoneyama Marie , Yamamoto Tomomi , Yamagata Zentaro
Published: February 2023

Background

This study aimed to develop an efficient interview sheet during pregnancy and screening tool to identify pregnant women needing social support at obstetric institutions. Moreover, we investigate the perinatal factors associated with the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale (EPDS).

Methods

This prospective cohort study was conducted at three medical institutions that commonly encounter cases with social issues. Pregnant women were assessed using an interview sheet at the first visit (n = 678), at approximately 28 weeks gestation (n = 495), 36 weeks gestation (n = 296), and the postpartum period (n = 822). We investigated the important items identified on the new screening questionnaire (NEW interview sheets) for women needing social support. The items on the interview sheet were scored by multiple linear regression analysis, and the cutoff values were calculated using the receiver operating characteristic curve. The association between perinatal factors and EPDS was assessed using multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results

The study included 166 cases for which all NEW interview sheets for all periods were available. NEW interview sheets and stepwise screening tools during the first and second trimester were developed in which 2.5% of pregnant women were identified as requiring social support, respectively. The factors associated with EPDS ≧ 9 were “Women who felt confused/troubled or did not feel anything to be pregnant” (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 6.51, 95% conﬁdence interval [CI]: 1.62–26.15), “Maternal mental disorder” (aOR 4.38; CI 1.06–18.10), “Consultation request at first visit” (aOR 3.22; CI 1.09–9.45), and “Women who have difficulty or anxiety about pregnancy during the second trimester” (aOR 3.14; CI 1.29–7.67).

Conclusions

We created the NEW interview sheets and screening tools during the first and the second trimester. Future studies are needed to validate these screening tools.
After virus exposure, early bystander naïve CD8 T cell activation relies on NAD+ salvage metabolism
Authors: Holay Namit , Kennedy Barry E. , Murphy J. Patrick , Konda Prathyusha , Giacomantonio Michael , Brauer-Chapin Tatjana , Paulo Joao A. , Kumar Vishnupriyan , Kim Youra , Elaghil Mariam , Sisson Gary , Clements Derek , Richardson Christopher , Gygi Steven P. , Gujar Shashi
Published: February 2023

CD8 T cells play a central role in antiviral immunity. Type I interferons are among the earliest responders after virus exposure and can cause extensive reprogramming and antigen-independent bystander activation of CD8 T cells. Although bystander activation of pre-existing memory CD8 T cells is known to play an important role in host defense and immunopathology, its impact on naïve CD8 T cells remains underappreciated. Here we report that exposure to reovirus, both in vitro or in vivo, promotes bystander activation of naïve CD8 T cells within 24 hours and that this distinct subtype of CD8 T cell displays an innate, antiviral, type I interferon sensitized signature. The induction of bystander naïve CD8 T cells is STAT1 dependent and regulated through nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase (NAMPT)-mediated enzymatic actions within NAD+ salvage metabolic biosynthesis. These findings identify a novel aspect of CD8 T cell activation following virus infection with implications for human health and physiology.
Inflammatory response: The target for treating hyperpigmentation during the repair of a burn wound
Authors: Zhong Chi , Liang Geao , Li Peiting , Shi Ke , Li Fuyin , Zhou Jianda , Xu Dan
Published: February 2023

Hyperpigmentation is a common complication in patients with burn injuries during wound healing; however, the mechanisms underlying its occurrence and development remain unclear. Recently, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) was found to result from overproduction of melanin. Local or systemic inflammatory responses are often observed in patients who develop hyperpigmentation. However, we lack studies on the relationship between PIH and burn injury. Therefore, we comprehensively reviewed the existing literature on the melanogenesis of the skin, inflammatory mechanisms in pigmentation, and local or systemic alteration in inflammatory cytokines in patients suffering from burn trauma to elucidate the relationship between PIH and burn injury. We believe that this review will guide further research on regulating melanin production in the burn management process.
Mast cell activation mediates blood–brain barrier impairment and cognitive dysfunction in septic mice in a histamine-dependent pathway
Authors: Yue Jianhe , Tan Ying , Huan Renzheng , Guo Jin , Yang Sha , Deng Mei , Xiong Yunbiao , Han Guoqiang , Liu Lin , Liu Jian , Cheng Yuan , Zha Yan , Zhang Jiqin
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a diffuse cerebral dysfunction resulting from a systemic inflammatory response to infection; however, its pathophysiology remains unclear. Sepsis-induced neuroinflammation and blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption are crucial factors in brain function disturbance in SAE. Mast cells (MCs) activation plays an important role in several neuroinflammation models; however, its role in SAE has not been comprehensively investigated.

Methods

We first established a SAE model by cecal ligation puncture (CLP) surgery and checked the activation of MCs. MCs activation was checked using immumohistochemical staining and Toluidine Blue staining. We administrated cromolyn (10mg/ml), a MC stabilizer, to rescue the septic mice. Brain cytokines levels were measured using biochemical assays. BBB disruption was assessed by measuring levels of key tight-junction (TJ) proteins. Cognitive function of mice was analyzed by Y maze and open field test. Transwell cultures of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMVECs) co-cultured with MCs were used to assess the interaction of BMVECs and MCs.

Results

Results showed that MCs were overactivated in the hippocampus of CLP-induced SAE mice. Cromolyn intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) injection substantially inhibited the MCs activation and neuroinflammation responses, ameliorated BBB impairment, improved the survival rate and alleviated cognitive dysfunction in septic mice. In vitro experiments, we revealed that MCs activation increased the sensitivity of BMVECs against to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Furthermore, we found that the histamine/histamine 1 receptor (H1R) mediated the interaction between MCs and BMVECs, and amplifies the LPS-induced inflammatory responses in BMVECs by modulating the TLR2/4-MAPK signaling pathway.

Conclusions

MCs activation could mediate BBB impairment and cognitive dysfunction in septic mice in a histamine-dependent pathway.
Occurrenceand characteristics of microplastics in benthic species from mangrove wetlands of Hainan, South China
Authors: Zhang Qinzhou , Xie Jia , Ma Siyuan , Chen Yingya , Lin Fang , Diao Xiaoping
Published: February 2023

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants that pose a global threat to the environment. Mangrove ecosystems, which contribute to biogeochemical cycles, are vulnerable to various anthropogenic disturbances and chemical pollutants. In this study, the abundance and the characteristics of MPs were investigated in 10 species of benthic organisms, including crabs, bivalves, and snails, from seven typical mangrove distribution areas, with a total of 15 sampling sites in Hainan, South China. The abundance of MPs in each sampling site ranged between 0.83 ± 1.32 and 12.00 ± 0.00 items/individual, with an average of 3.90 ± 3.31 items/individual, while the abundance of MPs varied between 0.17 and 2.00 items/individual for the different species. Fibers (80.13%) were the most abundant MPs, most of the MPs were brown (37.18%) or blue (26.64%), and more than 80% were small-sized plastic (<2 mm). Raman analysis showed that polypropylene (94.44%) was the most dominant type of polymer. In addition, crabs (with an average abundance of 1.10 ± 0.59 items/individual) showed a higher potential for accumulating MPs than the other species investigated in the present study. This study shows that MPs are widely distributed throughout benthic species in the mangrove wetlands of Hainan.
Effect of a dual orexin receptor antagonist on Alzheimer's disease: Sleep disorders and cognition
Authors: Zhou Mengzhen , Tang Shi
Published: February 2023

Orexin is a neuropeptide produced by the lateral hypothalamus that plays an important role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. The overexpression of the orexinergic system may be related to the pathology of sleep/wakefulness disorders in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In AD patients, the increase in cerebrospinal fluid orexin levels is associated with parallel sleep deterioration. Dual orexin receptor antagonist (DORA) can not only treat the sleep-wakefulness disorder of AD but also improve the performance of patients with cognitive behavior disorder. It is critical to clarify the role of the orexin system in AD, study its relationship with cognitive decline in AD, and evaluate the safety and efficacy of DORA.
The under investigated facet of the COVID-19 pandemic: Molecular analysis of secondary bacterial infections at a COVID dedicated intensive care unit within a tertiary care center in Lebanon
Authors: Sleiman Ahmad , Abdelkhalek Pascal , Doumat George , Atallah Frida , Hamadeh Lama , Moussa Pamela , Bou Akl Imad , Dbaibo Ghassan , Araj George F. , Kanj Souha S. , Mahfouz Rami , Matar Ghassan M. , Kanafani Zeina A. , Abou Fayad Antoine G.
Published: February 2023

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread worldwide. Secondary bacterial infections are associated with unfavorable outcomes in respiratory viral infections. This study aimed at determining the prevalence of secondary bacterial infections in COVID-19 patients admitted at a tertiary medical center in Lebanon.

Methodology

From May till November, 2020, a total of 26 Gram-negative isolates were recovered from 16 patients during the course of their COVID-19 infection with Escherichia coli being the most prevalent. The isolates were assessed for their antimicrobial susceptibility by broth microdilution against 19 antimicrobial agents from different classes. Whole genome sequencing of 13 isolates allowed the mining of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) determinants as well as mobile genetic elements and sequence types (ST). Finally, broth microdilution with three different efflux pump inhibitors [theobromine, conessine and PheArg-β-naphthylamide (PAβN)] was done.

Results

Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed that out of the 26 Gram-negative isolates, 1 (4%) was extensively drug resistant and 14 (54%) were multi-drug resistant (MDR). Whole genome sequencing results revealed a plethora of AMR determinants among the 13 sequenced isolates. Moreover, the 9 Enterobacterales and 4 Pseudomonas aeruginosa sequenced isolates belonged to 9 and 2 different ST, respectively. Using a variety of efflux pump inhibitors we demonstrated that only PAβN had a significant effect when combined with levofloxacin, and the latter regained its activity against two P. aeruginosa isolates.

Conclusion

The identification of carbapenem and colistin resistant Gram-negative bacilli causing secondary bacterial infections in critical patients diagnosed with COVID-19 should be of high concern. Additionally, it is crucial to monitor and track AMR, post-COVID pandemic, in order to better understand the effect of this disease on AMR exacerbation.
Complications during mechanical ventilation—A pediatric intensive care perspective
Authors: Sood Shawn , Ganatra Hammad A. , Perez Marques Francesca , Langner Travis R.
Published: February 2023

Mechanical ventilation is a common procedure performed in pediatric intensive care units, with over 20% of patients requiring invasive ventilator support. The most common indication for endotracheal intubation and ventilation in the pediatric population is respiratory failure either due to respiratory embarrassment or neurologic pathology. Despite the use of ventilation modes that are lung protective in the pediatric population, complications of mechanical ventilation occur frequently. These include atelectasis, post-extubation stridor, perioral tissue damage, ventilator associated pneumonia, mucus plugging, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and ICU neuromyopathy. The purpose of this review is to discuss the risk factors, presentation and management of complications associated with mechanical ventilation in the pediatric population.
Increased ICU mortality in septic shock patients with hypo- or hyper- serum osmolarity: A retrospective study
Authors: Heng Gang , Zhang Jiasi , Dong Yi , Jia Jiankun , Huang Benqi , Shen Yanbing , Wang Dan , Lan Zhen , Zhang Jianxin , Fu Tao , Jin Weidong
Published: February 2023

Background

While many factors that are associated with increased mortality in septic shock patients have been identified, the effects of serum osmolarity on the outcomes of ICU patients with septic shock have not yet been studied.

Methods

The present study was designed to examine the association of serum osmolarity with ICU 28-day mortality in ICU patients with septic shock. Adult patients diagnosed with septic shock from the MIMIC-IV database were selected in this study. The serum osmolarity was calculated synchronously according to the serum concentrations of Na+, K+, glucose, and urea nitrogen.

Results

In the present study, a significant difference was observed between the 28-day mortality of septic shock patients with hypo-osmolarity, hyper-osmolarity, and normal osmolarity (30.8%, 34.9%, and 23.0%, respectively, p < 0.001), which were detected at ICU admission. After propensity score matching (PSM) for basic characteristics, the relatively higher mortality was still observed in the hypo-osmolarity and hyper-osmolarity groups, compared to normal osmolarity group (30.6%, 30.0% vs. 21.7%, p = 0.009). Furthermore, we found that transforming the hyper-osmolarity into normal osmolarity by fluid therapy on day 2 and 3 decreased this mortality.

Conclusion

The serum osmolarity disorder is markedly associated with increased 28-day mortality in septic shock patients.
Transcriptomics combined with metabolomics unveiled the key genes and metabolites of mycelium growth in Morchella importuna
Authors: Fan Tingting , Ren Rui , Tang Shaojun , Zhou Yiyun , Cai Meng , Zhao Wenwen , He Yuelin , Xu Jun
Published: February 2023

Morels (Morchella) are one of the most popular edible fungi in the world, especially known for their rich nutrition and delicious taste. Earlier research indicates that the production of fruiting bodies can be affected by the growth of mycelium. To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying mycelium growth in Morchella importuna, we performed transcriptome analysis and metabolomics analysis of three growth stages of the hypha of M. importuna. As a result, 24 differentially expressed genes, such as transketolase (tktA), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), fructose-diphosphate aldolase (Fba), and ribose-5-phosphate isomerase (rpiA), as well as 15 differentially accumulated metabolites, including succinate and oxaloacetate, were identified and considered as the key genes and metabolites to mycelium growth in M. importuna. In addition, guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP), guanosine-5′-monophosphate (GMP), and several small peptides were found to differentially accumulate in different growth stages. Furthermore, five pathways, namely, starch and sucrose metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, fructose and mannose metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, and purine nucleotides, enriched by most DEGs, existed in the three compared groups and were also recognized as important pathways for the development of mycelium in morels. The comprehensive transcriptomics and metabolomics data generated in our study provided valuable information for understanding the mycelium growth of M. importuna, and these data also unveiled the key genes, metabolites, and pathways involved in mycelium growth. This research provides a great theoretical basis for the stable production and breeding of morels.
Transcriptomics-based investigation of molecular mechanisms underlying synergistic antimicrobial effects of AgNPs and Domiphen on the human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Du Wenlong , Xu Ruolin , He Zhiqiang , Yang Huan , Gu Yufan , Liu Yi
Published: February 2023

Critically ill patients have higher risk of serious fungal infections, such as invasive aspergillosis (IA) which is mainly caused by the human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Triazole drugs are the primary therapeutic agents for the first-line treatment of IA, which could easily cause drug resistance problems. Here, we assess the potential of AgNPs synthesized with Artemisia argyi leaf extract and domiphen as new antifungal agents to produce synergistic antimicrobial effects on Aspergillus fumigatus, and dissect possible molecular mechanisms of action. Plate inoculation assays combined with drug susceptibility test and cytotoxicity test showed that the combination of AgNPs and domiphen has synergistic antimicrobial effects on A. fumigatus with low cytotoxicity. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis showed that AgNPs and domiphen inhibit the growth of A. fumigatus by suppressing nitrate assimilation, and purine nucleobase metabolic process and amino acid transmembrane transport, respectively. When the two drugs are combined, AgNPs has epistatic effects on domiphen. Moreover, the combination of AgNPs and domiphen primarily influence secondary metabolites biosynthesis, steroid biosynthesis and nucleotide sugar metabolism of A. fumigatus via Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Furthermore, protein–protein interactions (PPI) analysis combined with validation experiments showed that the combination of AgNPs and domiphen could enhance the expression of copper transporter and inhibit nitrogen source metabolism. In addition, the synergistic antimicrobial effects could be enhanced or eliminated depending on exogenous addition of copper and nitrogen source, respectively. Taken together, the results of this study provide a theoretical basis and a new strategy for the treatment of IA.
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia promotes lung adenocarcinoma progression by upregulating histone deacetylase 5
Authors: Shen Jiyu , Ni Yalan , Guan Qijie , Li Rui , Cao Hong , Geng Yan , You Qingjun
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, and lung adenocarcinoma (LADC) is the most common lung cancer. Lung cancer has a distinct microbiome composition correlated with patients’ smoking status. However, the causal evidence of microbial impacts on LADC is largely unknown.

Methods

We investigated microbial communities’ differences in Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded tissues of ever-smoke (n = 22) and never-smoke (n = 31) patients with LADC through bacterial 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing. Then nitrosamines 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK)-induced lung cancer mouse model and A549 cells were used to study the effect of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia) in LADC.

Results and Discussion

We found a significant increase of genus Stenotrophomonas in LADC tissues of patients with primary tumor size greater than 3 cm and never-smoker patients. We further found that intratracheal infection with S. maltophilia promoted tumor progression in the NNK-induced lung cancer mouse model. We performed RNA-seq analysis on lung tissues and found that S. maltophilia treatment drove inflammation and upregulated tumor associated cell signaling, including Apelin signaling pathway. Mechanistically, histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) gene expression was significantly upregulated in S. maltophilia treated groups, and was required for S. maltophilia induced cell proliferation and migration in LADC cell line A549. Therefore, we provide in vivo and in vitro evidence to demonstrate that S. maltophilia promotes LADC progression, in part, through HDAC5.