bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coagulopathy and acute pancreatitis: pathophysiology and clinical treatment
Authors: Li Lan , Tan Qingyuan , Wu Xueying , Mou Xiaowen , Lin Ziqi , Liu Tingting , Huang Wei , Deng Lihui , Jin Tao , Xia Qing
Published: October 2024

Coagulopathy is a critical pathophysiological mechanism of acute pancreatitis (AP), arising from the complex interplay between innate immune, endothelial cells and platelets. Although initially beneficial for the host, uncontrolled and systemic activation of coagulation cascade in AP can lead to thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications, ranging from subclinical abnormalities in coagulation tests to severe clinical manifestations, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation. Initiation of coagulation activation and consequent thrombin generation is caused by expression of tissue factor on activated monocytes and is ineffectually offset by tissue factor pathway inhibitor. At the same time, endothelial-associated anticoagulant pathways, in particular the protein C system, is impaired by pro-inflammatory cytokines. Also, fibrin removal is severely obstructed by inactivation of the endogenous fibrinolytic system, mainly as a result of upregulation of its principal inhibitor, plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1. Finally, increased fibrin generation and impaired break down lead to deposition of (micro) vascular clots, which may contribute to tissue ischemia and ensuing organ dysfunction. Despite the high burden of coagulopathy that have a negative impact on AP patients’ prognosis, there is no effective treatment yet. Although a variety of anticoagulants drugs have been evaluated in clinical trials, their beneficial effects are inconsistent, and they are also characterized by hemorrhagic complications. Future studies are called to unravel the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in coagulopathy in AP, and to test novel therapeutics block coagulopathy in AP.
Possible involvement of Toll-like receptor 8-positive monocytes/macrophages in the pathogenesis of Sjögren’s disease
Authors: Yan Lijing , Miyahara Yuka , Sakamoto Mizuki , Kaneko Naoki , Chen Hu , Sameshima Junsei , Kido Hajime , Yokomizo Shiho , Sueyoshi Tomoki , Nagano Haruki , Ohyama Yukiko , Nakamura Seiji , Kawano Shintaro , Moriyama Masafumi
Published: October 2024

Background

Sjögren’s disease (SjD) is an autoimmune disease marked by lymphocytic infiltration of salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to glandular dysfunction, where CD4-positive helper T (Th) cells and their cytokines are crucial in the pathogenesis. Recent studies have demonstrated that Toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly those recognizing immune complexes containing DNA and RNA, contribute to Th cell activation in various autoimmune diseases. This study explores the expression and function of these TLRs in SjD.

Methods

DNA microarray analysis of salivary gland tissue from six SjD patients and real-time PCR (n = 32) was used to identify overexpressed TLRs. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed using tissue lesions and integrated with published scRNA-seq data from tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells to examine gene expression in macrophages and monocytes. Finally, multi-color immunofluorescence staining was conducted to confirm TLR8 expression and function in SjD lesions (n = 19).

Results

DNA microarray analysis revealed the up-regulation of TLR8, along with other TLRs and innate immune response genes in SjD. Real-time PCR showed significant up-regulation of TLR7 and TLR8. TLR8 up-regulated in both analyses. In scRNA-seq analysis, the TLR8-expressing cluster comprised macrophages and monocytes, which also produced T cell activation genes like CD86. TLR8-positive macrophages infiltrated inflammatory sites and frequently expressed CD86 in quantitative imaging approaches.

Conclusions

These results suggest that infiltrating monocytes and macrophages may produce cytokines and chemokines through TLR8 stimulation, potentially enhancing B7 molecule expression, promoting the adaptive immune response, and contributing to SjD pathogenesis.
Prediction of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality using race and race-free estimated glomerular filtration rate in African Americans: the Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Wang Haiping , Cai Jiahui , Fan Hao , Diamantidis Clarissa J. , Young Bessie A. , Bidulescu Aurelian
Published: October 2024

Background

New Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations without a race adjustment were developed to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). We aimed to compare the performance of five CKD-EPI eGFR equations, with or without race, in predicting cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and all-cause mortality in Black Americans from the Jackson Heart Study.

Methods

JHS is an ongoing population-based prospective cohort study of African Americans in the Jackson, Mississippi, metropolitan area. Five CKD-EPI equations were used to estimate GFR at baseline using serum creatinine (Cr) or cystatin C (cys), including 2009 eGFRcr(ASR [age, sex, race]), 2021 eGFRcr(AS [age and sex]), 2012 eGFRcr-cys(ASR), 2021 eGFRcr-cys(AS), 2012 eGFRcys(AS). Endpoints were incident CVD events and all-cause mortality. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the associations between different eGFRs and outcomes adjusting for atherosclerotic risk factors. Harrell’s C-statistics and Net Reclassification Index (NRI) were used to assess the predictive utility.

Results

Among 5,129 participants (average age 54.8 ± 12.8 yrs), 1898 were male (37.0%). eGFRcr(AS) provided lower estimates and resulting in a greater proportion of participants categorized as CKD than eGFRcr(ASR), eGFRcr-cys(ASR), eGFRcr-cys(AS) and eGFRcys(AS). A median follow-up of 13.7 and 14.3 years revealed 411 (9.3%) CVD incidents and 1,207 (23.5%) deaths. Lower eGFRs were associated with CVD incidents and all-cause mortality. eGFRcr-cys(ASR), eGFRcr-cys(AS) and eGFRcys(AS) were strongly associated with incident CVD events and all-cause mortality than eGFRcr(ASR) and eGFRcr(AS). A significant discrimination improvement was found in C-statistics for predicting incident CVD events and all-cause mortality after adding each eGFR measure to the basic model including atherosclerotic risk factors. Across a 7.5% 10-year risk threshold, eGFRcys(AS) improved net classification of all-cause mortality (NRI: 2.19, 95%CI: 0.08, 4.65%).

Conclusion

eGFR based on creatinine omit race has the lowest mean and detects more CKD patients in Black population. The eGFRs incorporating cystatin C strengthens the association between the eGFR and the risks of incident CVD and all-cause mortality. Cystatin C-based eGFR equations might be more appropriate for predicting CVD and mortality among Black population.
Effects of microbial communities during the cultivation of three salt-tolerant plants in saline-alkali land improvement
Authors: Wang Yijun , Gong Huarui , Zhang Zongxiao , Sun Zeqiang , Liu Shenglin , Ma Changjian , Wang Xuejun , Liu Zhaohui
Published: October 2024

Planting vegetation on saline-alkaline land enhances soil fertility and sustainability by improving salt-alkali tolerance. Different salt-tolerant plant species interact with soil microorganisms, enriching bacterial communities and promoting nutrient availability. In this study, mechanisms affecting microbial communities in severely saline-alkaline soils planted with salt-tolerant plants are investigated. Over 4 years, the potential to cultivate three salt-tolerant plant species (tall wheatgrass Agropyron elongatum, chicory Chicorium intybus, and alfalfa Medicago sativa) in severely saline-alkaline soils is compared with a non-cultivated control. Bacterial and fungal communities were characterized through high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene V3–V4 region and the V4 region, respectively. Cultivating these three plant species significantly reduces soil electrical conductivity values. Chicory cultivation notably increased soil nutrients, bacterial alpha richness, and fungal alpha diversity and richness. Microbial community structures vary considerably between the control and treatments, significantly correlating with the soil quality index. This index enables an assessment of soil health and fertility by integrating variables such as nutrient content, microbial diversity, and salinity levels. In each plant treatment, particularly alfalfa, the relative abundances of fungal pathogens like Neocosmospora and Gibellulopsis increase, which may pose risks to subsequent crops such as tomatoes, requiring careful consideration in future planting decisions. Conversely, in alfalfa and tall wheatgrass treatments, there was an increase in the relative abundances of fungal genera (e.g., Alternaria and Podospora) that antagonize fungal pathogens, while Paraphoma increased in the chicory treatment. The strong relationship between microorganisms and the rise in pathogen-resistant fungi across different plant treatments highlights robust and beneficial structural characteristics. According to soil quality index scores, each treatment, but especially that of chicory, improved the severely saline–alkaline soil environment.
Development of a Providencia stuartii multilocus sequence typing scheme
Authors: Arcari Gabriele , De Francesco Alice , Polani Riccardo , Carattoli Alessandra , Capitani Valerio
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The Providencia genus is assuming greater clinical relevance among infections caused by Enterobacterales also because of its intrinsic and acquired resistance to last-resort antibiotics. However, despite having been known and studied for over 50 years, genomics and taxonomy of the Providencia genus are currently undergoing a deep rearrangement. In this study we aim to outline and characterized the P. stuartii species.

Methods

We retrieved from the GenBank database all genomes labelled as Providencia and performed a comprehensive genome-based species definition founded on average nucleotide identity (ANI) and on alignment-free approaches.

Results

After defining the genomes assuredly identifiable as P. stuartii, we devised a MultiLocus Sequence Typing (MLST) and a core-genome MLST (cgMLST) schemes, based on 7 and 2,296 loci respectively.

Discussion

This work hence provides a framework for understanding the role of P. stuartii and of other members of this genus, which should be considered as emerging multidrug-resistant pathogens.
Increased levels of antibodies to synaptopodin and annexin 1 in patients with primary podocytopathies
Authors: Chebotareva Natalia V. , Charionovskaya Evgeniya A. , Biryukova Evgenia A. , Vinogradov Anatoliy A. , Alentov Igor I. , Sergeeva Natalia S. , Kononikhin Alexey S. , Nikolaev Evgeny N. , Moiseev Sergey V.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Circulating anti-podocyte antibodies have been proposed as potential factors contributing to increased permeability in primary podocytopathies, such as Minimal Change Disease (MCD) and Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The aim of the study was to to assess the levels of antibodies targeting synaptopodin and annexin 1 in the blood serum of patients diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, with the aim of evaluating their potential utility in diagnosing primary podocytopathies and predicting therapeutic response.

Methods

The study included a total of 72 patients diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, alongside 21 healthy subjects for comparison. Among the patients, 38 were diagnosed with FSGS, 12 with MCD, and 22 with MN. The levels of anti-synaptopodin and anti-annexin-1 antibodies were quantified using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay.

Results

The levels of antibodies to annexin 1 and anti-synaptopodin in the blood were found to be higher in patients diagnosed with MCD and FSGS compared to those with MN and healthy individuals. The elevated levels of antibodies to annexin 1 and synaptopodin showed area under the curve values of 0.826 (95% CI 0.732–0.923) and 0.827 (95% CI 0.741–0.879), respectively. However, a model incorporating both antibodies demonstrated higher sensitivity (80.9%) and specificity (81.3%) with an AUC of 0.859 (95% CI 0.760-0.957). Notably, serum levels of annexin 1 and anti-synaptopodin antibodies did not predict the response to prednisolone and/or CNI therapy.

Discussion

Levels of antibodies targeting synaptopodin and annexin 1 were notably elevated in patients diagnosed with MCD and FSGS compared to those with MN and healthy controls. A panel comprising both antibodies demonstrated moderate to high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis MCD or FSGS.
Orthostatic intolerance with tachycardia (postural tachycardia syndrome) and without (hypocapnic cerebral hypoperfusion) represent a spectrum of the same disorder
Authors: Novak Peter , Systrom David M. , Witte Alexandra , Marciano Sadie P.
Published: October 2024

Background

Spectrum of chronic orthostatic intolerance without orthostatic hypotension includes postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS), with orthostatic tachycardia and hypocapnic cerebral hypoperfusion (HYCH), without orthostatic tachycardia. This study compared autonomic, cerebrovascular, and neuropathic features of POTS and HYCH.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated patients with orthostatic intolerance referred for autonomic testing. Analyzed data included surveys (Survey of Autonomic Symptoms, Compass-31, Neuropathy Total Symptom Score-6, Central Sensitization Inventory) and autonomic tests (Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, sudomotor and tilt tests), cerebrovascular (cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) monitoring in the middle cerebral artery), respiratory (capnography), neuropathic (skin biopsies for assessment of small fiber neuropathy) and invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing (iCPET).

Results

A total of 127 HYCH, 125 POTS, and 42 healthy controls were analyzed. Compared HYCH to POTS patients, there was no difference in the duration of symptoms, the prevalence of younger women, comorbidities, sensory and autonomic complaints, central sensitization syndrome, supine/standing norepinephrine levels, inflammatory markers and medical therapy except for gastrointestinal medication. Autonomic testing showed widespread but similar abnormalities in POTS and HYCH that included: reduced orthostatic CBFv and end-tidal CO2, preload failure (assessed in 16/19 POTS/HYCH), mild autonomic failure, and frequent small fiber neuropathy.

Conclusion

HYCH and POTS are syndromes of orthostatic intolerance with cerebral hypoperfusion associated with reduced orthostatic cerebral blood flow, hypocapnia, mild autonomic failure and small fiber neuropathy of a similar degree and distribution; except for tachycardia in POTS. Similarities in peripheral domain abnormalities that affect heart rate suggest that orthostatic tachycardia in POTS is driven by the central nervous system overcompensation of orthostatic challenge. These findings provide additional evidence that HYCH and POTS represent a spectrum of the same disorder. Reduced orthostatic cerebral blood flow is a key unifying feature of HYCH and POTS.
Multi-source domain adaptation for EEG emotion recognition based on inter-domain sample hybridization
Authors: Wu Xu , Ju Xiangyu , Dai Sheng , Li Xinyu , Li Ming
Published: October 2024

Background

Electroencephalogram (EEG) is widely used in emotion recognition due to its precision and reliability. However, the nonstationarity of EEG signals causes significant differences between individuals or sessions, making it challenging to construct a robust model. Recently, domain adaptation (DA) methods have shown excellent results in cross-subject EEG emotion recognition by aligning marginal distributions. Nevertheless, these methods do not consider emotion category labels, which can lead to label confusion during alignment. Our study aims to alleviate this problem by promoting conditional distribution alignment during domain adaptation to improve cross-subject and cross-session emotion recognition performance.

Method

This study introduces a multi-source domain adaptation common-branch network for EEG emotion recognition and proposes a novel sample hybridization method. This method enables the introduction of target domain data information by directionally hybridizing source and target domain samples without increasing the overall sample size, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of conditional distribution alignment in domain adaptation. Cross-subject and cross-session experiments were conducted on two publicly available datasets, SEED and SEED-IV, to validate the proposed model.

Result

In cross-subject emotion recognition, our method achieved an average accuracy of 90.27% on the SEED dataset, with eight out of 15 subjects attaining a recognition accuracy higher than 90%. For the SEED-IV dataset, the recognition accuracy also reached 73.21%. Additionally, in the cross-session experiment, we sequentially used two out of the three session data as source domains and the remaining session as the target domain for emotion recognition. The proposed model yielded average accuracies of 94.16 and 75.05% on the two datasets, respectively.

Conclusion

Our proposed method aims to alleviate the difficulties of emotion recognition from the limited generalization ability of EEG features across subjects and sessions. Though adapting the multi-source domain adaptation and the sample hybridization method, the proposed method can effectively transfer the emotion-related knowledge of known subjects and achieve accurate emotion recognition on unlabeled subjects.
End-of-life management of multiple myeloma patients in the era of CD38 and immunotherapy
Authors: Sesques Pierre , Karlin Lionel , Massy Emmanuel , Maarek Alizée , Aussedat Guillaume , Lazareth Anne , Golfier Camille , Bouafia-Sauvy Fadhela , Lequeu Helene , Ghergus Dana , Safar Violaine , Ferrant Emmanuelle , Bachy Emmanuel , Ghesquières Hervé , Confavreux Cyrille B. , Demangel Delphine , Perrial Emeline , Dumontet Charles
Published: October 2024

Background

In spite of spectacular advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma, a majority of patients will die from this disease or related complications. While a great amount of focus has been dedicated to the development of novel therapies, little attention has been paid to latter stages of patient follow-up.

Patients and methods

In order to describe patient management during this critical period as well as the immediate causes and circumstances of death, we have analyzed a single center series of 100 patients diagnosed with myeloma who died between 2016 and 2021.

Results

Patients received a median of 3 lines of treatment, including 2 during their last year of life. Sixty per cent of patients had received daratumumab. Fifty patients had obtained complete remission or very good partial response at some time during the course of disease but 75 were refractory to the last treatment line. Eighteen patients died while their disease was stable or in remission while 77 had confirmed progressive disease at time of death. Thirty six patients had uncontrolled sepsis, 49 were in renal failure and 24 had hypercalcemia at the time of death. Seventy three patients presented with lymphopenia. Disease progression was documented in a majority of MM patients at the time of death and was associated with disease-related complications in a significant number of patients.

Conclusion

Disease progression remains the main cause of death in patients with multiple myeloma.
Grading of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by using monoexponential, biexponential, and stretched exponential diffusion-weighted MR imaging
Authors: Wang Wenhui , Wang Lingdian , Zhou Jing , Liu Taiyuan , Bai Yan , Wang Meiyun
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of monoexponential, biexponential and stretched-exponential diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) models in the grading of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC).

Materials and Methods

Fifty-one patients with pathologically proven ccRCC underwent DWI with fifteen b factors (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1500, 2000 sec/mm²) on a 3.0T MR scanner. The isotropic apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), true diffusion coefficient (ADCslow), pseudodiffusion coefficient (ADCfast), and fraction of perfusion (f) were derived from DWI using a biexponential model. The water diffusion heterogeneity index (α) and distributed diffusion coefficient (DDC) were derived from DWI using a stretched-exponential model. All values were calculated for the solid area of tumors and compared between high-grade and low-grade ccRCC. The Mann−Whitney U test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were used for statistical analysis. The DeLong test was performed to compare the ROC curves.

Results

The mean ADC, DDC, ADCslow and α values were significantly lower in high-grade ccRCC than in low-grade ccRCC (P< 0.01). However, the ADCfast and f were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). According to the ROC analyses, the AUC for α was 0.941, which was significantly greater than those of the other parameters, with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 84.2%. The DeLong test showed that there were significant differences in the ROCs among ADCfast/ADC, ADCfast/α, f/ADCslow, ADCfast/ADCslow, f/α, DDC/α, and f/ADC.

Conclusions

Diffusion-related parameters (ADC, DDC, ADCslow and α) could be used to distinguish between low- and high-grade ccRCC. The α derived from the stretched-exponential model may be the most promising parameter for grading ccRCC.
Isatin improves oligoasthenospermia caused by busulfan by regulating GSH/GPX4 axis to inhibit ferroptosis
Authors: Wang Chengniu , Wang Weizhen , Dong Jin , Li Xiaoran , Ye Taowen , Zeng Fanshuo , Jiang Mingyu , Shi Jianwu , Wang Xiaorong , Zhang Lei
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Ferroptosis, induced by iron overload and an imbalance in redox homeostasis, promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to iron-dependent lipid peroxides (LPO) and oxidative stress. Lipid peroxidation induced by reactive oxygen species is essential for the progression of spermatogenesis. However, its imbalance can lead to reproductive system damage and oligoasthenospermia, a critical cause of oligoasthenospermia. Isatin (ISA) is a naturally occurring compound that is widely distributed in lobsters, crustaceans, shellfish and various plants. It exhibits significant antioxidant and anti-aging properties, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of oligoasthenospermia. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of ISA on oligoasthenospermia and to elucidate the underlying molecular pathways.

Methods

All mice were divided into normal group, model group and treatment group. Both model group and treatment group received a single intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg BUS to create the model of oligoasthenospermia. After 2 weeks, the treatment group received different doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg ISA by gavage for 28 days, and then mice were sacrificed and tested.

Results

The results demonstrated that ISA effectively reversed busulfan-induced reproductive system damage in mice. This included the restoration of testicular histomorphology, improvement in sperm concentration and motility, regulation of serum sex hormone levels, and normalization of various oxidative indices in testicular tissue. Furthermore, ISA successfully reversed testicular ferroptosis by restraining the translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) into the nucleus and improved oligoasthenospermia through the glutathione (GSH)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) axis.

Discussion

ISA was found to effectively ameliorate oligoasthenospermia in mice, presenting a potential therapeutic option for patients with this condition.
Pathogenesis of thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum
Authors: Zhang Chi , Chang Yanan , Shu Li , Chen Zhongqiang
Published: October 2024

Thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum (TOLF) is characterized by ectopic ossification of the ligamentum flavum in the thoracic spine and is considered the main cause of thoracic spinal stenosis and spinal cord disease. Osteoblast specific transcription factor Osterix (Osx) is required for bone formation, and there is no bone formation or ossification without Osx. Surgical intervention is recognized as the only effective method for TOLF treatment with set of complications. However, underlying mechanisms of TOLF are not well understood. This paper summarizes the pathogenesis of TOLF. Some relevant factors have been discussed, such as mechanical stress, genetic susceptibility genes, endocrine and trace element metabolism abnormalities, which may associate with TOLF. More recent studies using proteomics technology and RNA sequencing approach have discovered that some new factors participate in TOLF by upregulation of Osx gene expression including inflammatory factors. TOLF is a unique disease involving multiple factors. On the other hand, studies on TOLF pathogenic mechanism may provide new ideas for finding possible upstream regulatory factors of Osx and further developing novel drugs to stimulate new bone formation to treat osteoporosis.
Temperature dependent radiative and non-radiative recombination lifetimes of luminescent amorphous silicon oxynitride systems
Authors: Zhang Pengzhan , Liu Xinyu , Zhang Ling , Wang Danbei , Wu Kongpin , Wang Sake
Published: October 2024

In our previous work, we deeply researched the absolute photoluminescence (PL) quantum yields of luminescent modulating a-SiNxOy films with various N/Si atom ratios under different measurement temperatures. In this work, we further systematically studied the temperature dependent kinetic processes of radiative and non-radiative recombinations in a-SiNxOy systems in the visible light range. First, we investigated the structure of a-SiNxOy films and obtained the concentrations of both trivalent Si and N-Si-O defects related dangling bonds through XPS, FTIR and EPR measurements. Then we further tested the transient fluorescence attenuation of a-SiNxOy films detected at different emission wavelengths. We found that the PL lifetimes of a-SiNxOy films vary with the change of N-Si-O defect state concentrations, which is different from the typical PL decay characteristics of band tail related a-SiNx films previously reported. By combining the resulting PL IQE values with the ns-PL lifetimes, we further intensively redetermined the radiative and non-radiative recombination lifetimes of a-SiNxOy systems. The related radiative recombination rates were obtained (kr∼108 s−1), which can be compared to the results in the direct band gap.
Epidemiological study of Newcastle disease in chicken farms in China, 2019–2022
Authors: Wang Shida , Wei Lili , Wang Jingfei , Zhang Zhigang
Published: October 2024

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is a significant poultry pathogen, causing ongoing economic losses in China’s poultry industry. To understand its circulation and risk factors associated with farm infection, we carried out an epidemiological study on 1,065 farms across 18 provinces from 2019 and 2022. We collected a total of 43,696 swabs and tested them for NDV using an RT-PCR that targets the partial F gene. The overall bird-level NDV prevalence in the 4 years (2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022) were 1.49% (95%CI: 1.27, 1.71%), 1.24% (95%CI: 1.04, 1.44%), 0.59% (95%CI: 0.45, 0.74%), and 0.44% (95%CI: 0.31, 0.58%) respectively, while the farm-level prevalence of the 4 years were 11.27% (95%CI: 7.93, 14.60%), 13.85% (95%CI: 10.10, 17.61%), 12.63% (95%CI: 8.00, 17.26%), and 10.71% (95%CI: 6.38, 15.04%), respectively. The result also showed a high degree of variation in farm-level prevalence (ranging from 0 to 90%) across the provinces. A multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that four factors, namely layer farm (OR = 2.282, 95% CI: 1.211, 4.298), broiler farm (OR = 2.339, 95% CI: 1.206, 4.534), using mixed feed (OR = 2.973, 95% CI: 1.962, 4.505), and indoor housing with some free-range access (OR = 1.788, 95%CI: 1.096, 2.917), increased the risk of NDV infection on farms. We isolated 104 NDVs, which were all classified into Class II by the phylogenetic analysis, but from two genotypes: four belonged to genotype I, while the remaining 100 mainly belonged to genotype II, indicating that the circulating NDVs were primarily LaSota-like low pathogenic viruses. We used random forest algorithm to established an occurrence risk model, The accuracy of the model was 90.81%. This large-scale investigation revealed NDV prevalence at bird, farm, and province levels over the 4 years. It also identified risk factors associated with farm NDV infections. The findings provide new insights into the epidemiology of NDV in China and offer references for global NDV control.
The effects of compound probiotics on production performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota of Hu sheep
Authors: Wang Lijun , Lv Zhanqi , Ning Xiaodong , Yue Zhiguang , Wang Ping , Liu Chaoqi , Jin Sanjun , Li Xinxin , Yin Qingqiang , Zhu Qun , Chang Juan
Published: October 2024

Fungal probiotics have the potential as feed additives, but less has been explored in ruminant feed up to date. This study aimed to determine the effect of compound probiotics (CPs) with Aspergillus oryzae 1, Aspergillus oryzae 2 and Candida utilis on Hu sheep’s growth performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota. A total of 120 male Hu sheep, aged 2 months and with the body weight of 16.95 ± 0.65 kg were divided into 4 groups. Each group consisted of 5 replicates, with 6 sheep per replicate. Group A was the control group fed with the basal diet. Group B, C and D was supplemented with the basal diet by adding 400, 800 and 1,200 grams per ton (g/t) CPs, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 60 days after a 10-day adaptation period. The results showed that the average daily gain (ADG) of sheep in the CPs groups were significantly higher, the feed/gain were significantly lower than those in group A in the later stage and the overall period. The addition of CPs increased the economic benefit. The levels of CD4+ and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio in the CPs groups were higher than those in Group A. The levels of GSH, IgG, IL-2, IL-6, and IFN-γ in group C were significantly elevated compared with group A. Group B showed a significant increase in rumen NH3-N and cellulase activity. There was no difference in VFAs content between group A and group B, however, with the increasing addition of CPs, the butyric acid and isobutyric acid content tended to decrease. The rumen microbiota analysis indicated that the CPs addition increased the Firmicutes and Proteobacteria abundances, decreased the Bacteroidetes abundance. The correlation analysis showed that Prevotella was negatively correlated with ADG, and the addition of 400 CPs in group B reduced Prevotella’s relative abundance, indicating CPs increased sheep growth by decreasing Prevotella abundance. The CPs addition reduced caspase-3, NF-κB and TNF-α expression in liver, jejunum and rumen tissues. In conclusion, the addition of CPs increased the sheep production performance, reduced inflammation, improved rumen and intestinal health. Considering the above points and economic benefits, the optimal addition of CPs as an additive for Hu sheep is 800 g/t.
Growth, Nutrient Deposition, Plasma Metabolites, and Innate Immunity Are Associated with Feeding Rate in Juvenile Starry Flounder (Platichthys stellatus)
Authors: Cho Jeong-Hyeon , Hamidoghli Ali , Hur Sang-Woo , Lee Bong-Joo , Lee Seunghan , Kim Kang-Woong , Lee Seunghyung
Published: October 2024

A 10-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of different feeding rates on growth performance, nutrient deposition, plasma metabolite, and immunity of juvenile starry flounder. Fish (initial mean body weight, 183.6 ± 2.3 g) were subjected to eight feeding rates (0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, 2.0, 2.4, 2.8, and 3.2% body weight/day [BW/d]) with a commercial diet containing 53.5% crude protein and 10.2% crude lipid. After the feeding trial, fish growth increased significantly (p < 0.05) from 0.4% to 2.0% BW/d, with no significant differences being observed beyond 2.0% BW/d. Protein and lipid gains in the whole body and liver of the fish fed 2.0–3.2% BW/d were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those of the fish fed 0.4% and 0.8% BW/d. Conversely, protein retention in the whole body and the liver decreased with an increased feeding rate. Lysozyme activity was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the fish fed 1.6–2.8% BW/d than in those fed 0.4–1.2% BW/d. The best-fit model analyses for optimum feeding rate (OFR) revealed that the estimate for each parameter varied between 0.7% (feed conversion ratio) and 3.1% (lipid gain in carcass) BW/d. The OFR for productivity (weight gain) and enhanced innate immunity (lysozyme) were estimated at 2.4% and 1.7% BW/d, respectively.
Population Structure and Selection Signatures in Chinese Indigenous Zhaotong Pigs Revealed by Whole-Genome Resequencing
Authors: Zhu Yixuan , Wang Xiaoyi , Yang Yongli , Wang Lixing , Xu Chengliang , Xu Wenkun , Chen Qiang , Li Mingli , Lu Shaoxiong
Published: October 2024

Zhaotong pig (ZTP) is a Chinese indigenous pig breed in Yunnan Province, known for its unique body shape and appearance, good meat quality, strong foraging ability, and adaptability. However, there is still a lack of research on its genome. In order to investigate the genetic diversity, population structure, and selection signatures of the breed, we conducted a comprehensive analysis by resequencing on 30 ZTPs and comparing them with genomic data from 10 Asian wild boars (AWBs). A total of 45,514,452 autosomal SNPs were detected in the 40 pigs, and 23,649,650 SNPs were retained for further analysis after filtering. The HE, HO, PN, MAF, π, and Fis values were calculated to evaluate the genetic diversity, and the results showed that ZTPs had higher genetic diversity and lower inbreeding coefficient compared with AWBs. Population structure was analyzed using NJ tree, PCA, ADMIXTURE, and LD methods. It was found that ZTPs were population independent of AWBs and had a lower LD decay compared to AWBs. Moreover, the results of the IBS genetic distance and G matrix showed that most of the individuals had large genetic distances and distant genetic relationships in ZTPs. Selection signatures were detected between ZTPs and AWBs by using two methods, FST and π ratio. Totals of 1104 selected regions and 275 candidate genes were identified. Finally, functional enrichment analysis identified some annotated genes that might affect fat deposition (NPY1R, NPY5R, and NMU), reproduction (COL3A1, COL5A2, GLRB, TAC3, and MAP3K12), growth (STAT6 and SQOR), tooth development (AMBN, ENAM, and ODAM), and immune response (MBL2, IL1A, and DNAJA3). Our results will provide a valuable basis for the future effective protection, breeding, and utilization of ZTPs.
Canine Distemper Virus in Sardinia, Italy: Detection and Phylogenetic Analysis in Foxes
Authors: Coradduzza Elisabetta , Stefania Fiori Mariangela , Pintus Davide , Ferretti Luca , Ledda Alice , Chessa Gian Simone , Rocchigiani Angela Maria , Lostia Giada , Rossi Renata , Cancedda Maria Giovanna , Macciocu Simona , Cherchi Marcella , Denurra Daniele , Pintore Antonio , Bechere Roberto , Pudda Flavia , Muzzeddu Marco , Dettori Maria Antonietta , Ruiu Angelo , Briguglio Paolo , Ligios Ciriaco , Puggioni Giantonella
Published: October 2024

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is the etiological agent of a highly prevalent viral infectious disease of carnivores, which could seriously lead to a threat to the conservation of the affected species worldwide [...]
Application of Stable Isotopes in Identifying the Sources and Formation of Sulfate and Nitrate in PM2.5: A Review
Authors: Peng Jiamei , Cheng Chen , Wang Shanshan , Hu Gongren , Yan Jinpei , Yu Ruilian
Published: October 2024

Sulfate and nitrate are important components of atmospheric PM2.5, which is the main contributor of haze. Therefore, studying the sources and formation mechanisms of atmospheric sulfate and nitrate is very important for the prevention and control of haze formation. Stable isotopes of sulfate and nitrate, including isotopic compositions of sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen, can be comprehensively used to study the sources and formation pathways of sulfate and nitrate in PM2.5, and to evaluate the contribution of each source and each formation pathway. This paper briefly reviews the determination methods for sulfur, oxygen and nitrogen isotopes in sulfate and nitrate, focuses on the application of the above isotopes in identifying the sources and formation pathways of sulfate and nitrate in atmospheric PM2.5, and puts forward research prospects.
Performance Assessment of Satellite-Based Precipitation Products in the 2023 Summer Extreme Precipitation Events over North China
Authors: Li Zhi , Liang Haixia , Chen Sheng , Li Xiaoyu , Li Yanping , Wei Chunxia
Published: October 2024

In the summer of 2023, North China experienced a rare extreme precipitation storm due to Typhoons Doksuri and Khanun, leading to significant secondary disasters and highlighting the urgent need for accurate rainfall forecasting. Satellite-based quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) products like Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) and Global Satellite Mapping of Precipitation (GSMaP) from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Mission have great potential for enhancing forecasts, necessitating a quantitative evaluation before deployment. This study uses a dense rain gauge as a benchmark to assess the accuracy and capability of the latest version 7B IMERG and version 8 GSMaP satellite-based QPE products for the 2023 summer extreme precipitation in North China. These satellite-based QPE products include four satellite-only products, namely IMERG early run (IMERG_ER) and IMERG late run (IMERG_LR), GSMaP near-real-time (GSMaP_NRT), and GSMaP microwave-infrared reanalyzed (GSMaP_MVK), along with two gauge-corrected products, namely IMERG final run (IMERG_FR) and GSMaP gauge adjusted (GSMaP_Gauge). The results show that (1) GSMaP_MVK, IMERG_LR, and IMERG_FR effectively capture the space distribution of the extreme rainfall, with relatively high correlation coefficients (CCs) of approximately 0.77, 0.75, and 0.79. The IMERG_ER, GSMaP_NRT, and GSMaP_Gauge products exhibit a less accurate spatial pattern capture (CCs about 0.66, 0.73, and 0.67, respectively). Each of the six QPE products tends to underestimate rainfall (RBs < 0%). (2) The IMERG products surpass the corresponding GSMaP products in serial rainfall measurement. IMERG_LR demonstrates superior performance with the lowest root-mean-square error (RMSE) (about 0.38 mm), the highest CC (0.97), and less underestimation (RB about −6.37%). (3) The IMERG products at rainfall rates ≥ 30 mm/h, GSMaP_NRT and GSMaP_MVK products at rainfall rates ≥ 55 mm/h, and GSMaP_Gauge products at ≥ 40 mm/h showed marked limitations in event detection, with a near-zero probability of detection (POD) and a nearly 100% false alarm ratio (FAR). In this extreme precipitation event, caution is needed when using the IMERG and GSMaP products.
Screening and Selection of a New Medium and Culture Conditions for Diosgenin Production via Microbial Biocatalysis of SYt1
Authors: Han Shiyao , Zhao Yiyu , Mou Fangyuan , Yang Zhen , Li Ningxiao , Cheng Mengqi , Xie Heshaungyi , Qin Baofu , Tang Young
Published: October 2024

Diosgenin (DSG) is a phytosterol saponin mainly found in Dioscorea zingiberensis C.H. Wright. It has shown promising results in treating various diseases such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases. Diosgenin is also an important medicinal chemical for synthesizing various steroid medicines. The production of diosgenin by acid hydrolysis generates a large amount of wastewater, leading to severe environmental pollution. However, producing diosgenin through microbial fermentation can effectively reduce environmental pollution. Numerous studies have demonstrated that various microorganisms can produce diosgenin via solid-state fermentation. Nevertheless, due to the complexity, high maintenance costs, uneven heat production, and other characteristics of solid-state fermentation, it is not commonly used in the industrial production of diosgenin. In contrast, liquid fermentation offers advantages such as simple operation, easy maintenance, and stable fermentation, making it more suitable for the industrial production of diosgenin. However, few studies have focused on producing diosgenin using liquid fermentation. In this study, endophytic Bacillus licheniformis SYt1 was used to produce diosgenin via liquid fermentation, with Dioscorea tuber powder as a substrate. Soxhlet extraction and silica gel column chromatography were employed to identify the diosgenin from the liquid fermentation products. Suitable fermentation conditions were screened and identified. The environmental variables that significantly affect the diosgenin yield were determined by the Plackett–Burman design (P-BD) with eight factors. The three factors (peptone, yeast extract powder and inorganic salt) with the greatest influence on the diosgenin yield were selected and further optimized using a response surface methodology (RSM). The final culture conditions were determined to be 35.79 g/L of peptone, 14.56 g/L of yeast extract powder, and 1.44 g/L of inorganic salt. The yield of diosgenin under these conditions was 132.57 mg/L, which was 1.8 times greater than the yield under pre-optimization conditions. This effective, clean, and promising liquid fermentation method possesses the potential to replace the traditional acid hydrolysis method for the industrial production of diosgenin.
Advances in Cardiovascular Wearable Devices
Authors: Iqbal Sheikh Muhammad Asher , Leavitt Mary Ann , Mahgoub Imadeldin , Asghar Waseem
Published: October 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide. They mainly include coronary artery disease, rheumatic heart disease, andcerebrovascular disease, and. Cardiovascular diseases can be better managed and diagnosed using wearable devices. Wearable devices, in comparison to traditional cardiovascular diagnostic tools, are not only inexpensive but also have the potential to provide continuous real-time monitoring. This paper reviews some of the recent advances in cardiovascular wearable devices. It discusses traditional implantable devices for cardiovascular diseases as well as wearable devices. The different types of wearable devices are categorized based on different technologies, namely using galvanic contact, photoplethysmography (PPG), and radio frequency (RF) waves. It also highlights the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiovascular disease diagnostics as well as future perspectives on cardiovascular devices.
Influence of Subjective Postural Vertical with Closed and Open Eyes in Patients with Hemiplegic and Pusher Behavior with Unilateral Spatial Neglect After Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sawa Kota , Amimoto Kazu , Miyamoto Takuya , Tamura Miko
Published: October 2024

Background: When integrating visual and somatosensory processing into the subjective postural vertical using the Romberg test, patients with hemiplegic can be sorted into either post-stroke or pushers with unilateral spatial neglect (USN). This study aimed to clarify the characteristics of the integrated processing of the integrated subjective postural vertical (ISPV) with open or closed eyes in patients with hemiplegic and/or pusher with USN. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 91 patients with hemiplegic and 45 with pusher and USN. The outcomes included the ratio and sum of SPV with the eyes closed and open. Statistical analyses were performed using the parametric and/or non-parametric Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Mann–Whitney U test, or chi-square test after the Shapiro–Wilk test. Results: The outcomes in the 91 patients with hemiplegic were as follows: moderate-to-severe ISPV with ratio, 1.64°; ISPV sum (ISPVS), 9.41°. The outcomes in the 45 patients with pusher and USN were as follows: moderate-to-severe, ISPV: 1.35°, and ISPVS: 13.96°. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of demographic data or ISPV. However, the number of patients with pusher syndrome was significantly higher in the ISPVS group than in stroke patients with hemiplegic. Conclusions: Adaptation occurs by integrating sensory modalities, and the pusher behavior in patients with USN is characterized by the specific pathophysiology of a two-modality disorder with visual and somatosensory deficits. This study provides key insights into the pathophysiological characteristics of patients with pusher syndrome and USN.
Neuroplasticity Meets Artificial Intelligence: A Hippocampus-Inspired Approach to the Stability–Plasticity Dilemma
Authors: Rudroff Thorsten , Rainio Oona , Klén Riku
Published: October 2024

The stability–plasticity dilemma remains a critical challenge in developing artificial intelligence (AI) systems capable of continuous learning. This perspective paper presents a novel approach by drawing inspiration from the mammalian hippocampus–cortex system. We elucidate how this biological system’s ability to balance rapid learning with long-term memory retention can inspire novel AI architectures. Our analysis focuses on key mechanisms, including complementary learning systems and memory consolidation, with emphasis on recent discoveries about sharp-wave ripples and barrages of action potentials. We propose innovative AI designs incorporating dual learning rates, offline consolidation, and dynamic plasticity modulation. This interdisciplinary approach offers a framework for more adaptive AI systems while providing insights into biological learning. We present testable predictions and discuss potential implementations and implications of these biologically inspired principles. By bridging neuroscience and AI, our perspective aims to catalyze advancements in both fields, potentially revolutionizing AI capabilities while deepening our understanding of neural processes.
User Preference Maps: Quantifying the Built Environment
Authors: Son Sanghyun , Kim Hyoensu
Published: October 2024

The built environment in which we live holds the potential to provide life experiences that allow pedestrians to observe, feel, learn, and grow through their surroundings in everyday urban spaces. If a city offers opportunities for careful observation and exploration according to users’ preferences, it will become more appealing to many people. This study selected Midtown, New York, as the research site and collected a total of seven datasets based on 30 intersections in the area. The data, categorized into three main areas—activity, comfort, and natural elements—were evaluated, visualized, and restructured using a path exploration algorithm to produce a final user-based map. For this, 3D modeling software Rhino version 7, visual programming tool Grasshopper, and Grasshopper verion 2023 plugin programs were used. The final result included 3D route information, quantitative measurement data, and multidimensional visual materials. This approach presents an alternative to traditional route navigation based on uniform criteria and, through data-driven design, is believed to ultimately enhance walkability, activate urban spaces, and contribute to the development of sustainable cities. The scope of related research can further expand as the targets, duration, and methods of data collection continue to evolve and as case studies in various cities increase.