bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping progress in intravascular catheter quality surveillance: An Australian case study of electronic medical record data linkage
Authors: Schults Jessica A. , Ball Daner L. , Sullivan Clair , Rossow Nick , Ray-Barruel Gillian , Walker Rachel M. , Stantic Bela , Rickard Claire M.
Published: August 2022

Background and significance

Intravascular (IV) catheters are the most invasive medical device in healthcare. Localized priority-setting related to IV catheter quality surveillance is a key objective of recent healthcare reform in Australia. We sought to determine the plausibility of using electronic health record (EHR) data for catheter surveillance by mapping currently available data across state-wide platforms. This work has identified barriers and facilitators to a state-wide EHR surveillance initiative.

Materials and methods

Data variables were generated and mapped from routinely used EHR sources across Queensland, Australia through a systematic search of gray literature and expert consultation with clinical information specialists. EHR systems were eligible for inclusion if they collected data related to IV catheter insertion, care, or outcomes of hospitalized patients. Generated variables were mapped against international recommendations for IV catheter surveillance, with data linkage and data export capacity narratively summarized.

Results

We identified five EHR systems, namely, iEMR, MetaVision ICU®, Multiprac, RiskMan, and the Nephrology Registry. Systems were used across jurisdictions and hospital wards. Data linkage was not evident across systems. Extraction processes for catheter data were not standardized, lacking clear and reliable extraction techniques. In combination, EHR systems collected 43/50 international variables recommended for catheter surveillance, however, individual systems collected a median of 24/50 (IQR 22, 30) variables. We did not identify integrated clinical analytic systems (incorporating machine learning) to support clinical decision making or for risk stratification (e.g., catheter-related infection).

Conclusion

Current data linkage across EHR systems limits the development of an IV catheter quality surveillance system to provide timely data related to catheter complications and harm. To facilitate reliable and timely surveillance of catheter outcomes using clinical informatics, substantial work is needed to overcome existing barriers and transform health surveillance.
Elevation of enterococcus-specific antibodies associated with bacterial translocation is predictive of survival rate in chronic liver disease
Authors: Iwasa Motoh , Eguchi Akiko , Tamai Yasuyuki , Shigefuku Ryuta , Nakagawa Ryo , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Kondo Jumpei , Morikawa Masayuki , Miyoshi Eiji , Nakagawa Hayato
Published: August 2022

Introduction/purpose

The gut-liver axis contributes to disease progression, a rise in infection rate, organ failure and a poor overall outcome in chronic liver diseases (CLD). Monitoring of the gut-liver axis is critical in understanding disease status, but biomarkers have not been elucidated. The aim of this study is to determine the level of serum antibodies against Enterococcus (E.) faecalis in evaluating patients with CLD, including those treated with rifaximin (a minimally absorbed antibiotic), and in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD).

Materials and methods

We enrolled 109 CLD patients (cohort 1), 30 hepatic encephalopathy patients treated with rifaximin (cohort 2), 53 inpatients with ALD undergoing alcohol cessation (cohort 3) and 33 healthy subjects. To assess the consequences of E. faecalis translocation, we developed an assay for the detection of a serum antibody against E. faecalis capsular polysaccharide (E.CPS).

Results

Serum E.CPS antibody titer was elevated only in those patients with advanced CLD and ALD. The E.CPS antibody titer was an independent prognostic factor (p < 0.05), while Mac-2 binding protein and albumin-bilirubin score were not independent predictors of survival. The improvement of predictive model in integrated factors was significant [continuous net reclassification index (value 0.699, p < 0.05) and integrated discrimination improvement (value 0.164, p = 0.051)]. Furthermore, rifaximin treatment led to a decrease of serum E.CPS antibody titer resulting in a significantly longer overall rate of survival.

Conclusion

The E.CPS antibody titer appears to be a strong predictor of survival in CLD patients. Serum E.CPS levels decrease in CLD patients receiving rifaximin, and may be associated with an overall improvement in rate of survival.
Dynamics of Genotypic and Phenotypic Antibiotic Resistance in a Conventional Wastewater Treatment Plant in 2 Years
Authors: Shin Hanseob , Kim Yeonghyeon , Raza Shahbaz , Unno Tatsuya , Ryu Song-Hee , Hur Hor-Gil
Published: August 2022

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered a sink and a source of antibiotic resistance. In this study, we applied both culture-dependent and SmartChip-based culture-independent approaches for the investigation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) at Jungnang (JN), located in the Han River, Seoul, South Korea, for 2 years, i.e., 2017 and 2018. The JN WWTP reduced the diversity and abundance of ARB and ARGs but was not sufficient for removing them all. Interestingly, through the treatment process in the JN WWTP, the composition of diverse multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria was concentrated mainly into some genera of the Gammaproteobacteria class (Citrobacter, Escherichia-Shigella, and Stenotrophomonas), which could be key carriages to spread ARGs into the environments. In addition, SmartChip analyses showed that the relative abundance and the number of ARGs were significantly decreased from the influents to the effluents in both 2017 and 2018. SmartChip analyses for 2 years also allowed to notify the core ARGs in the influents and the effluents with the presence of clinically relevant core ARGs, such as vanC, blaOXA, and blaNDM, which persisted in the treatment process. Considering diverse bacterial mechanisms for exchanging and transferring ARGs, the occurrence of MDR bacteria and core ARGs could be a source for the blooming of the antibiotic resistome in the WWTP and nearby environments.
Correlating biodegradation kinetics of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin to the dynamics of microbial communities originating from soil in Vietnam contaminated with herbicides and dioxins
Authors: Nguyen Thi Lan Anh , Dang Ha Thi Cam , Dat Ton That Huu , Brandt Bernd W. , Röling Wilfred F. M. , Brouwer Abraham , van Spanning Rob J. M.
Published: August 2022

We studied the succession of bacterial communities during the biodegradation of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD). The communities originated from a mesocosm with soil from Bien Hoa airbase in Vietnam heavily contaminated with herbicides and dioxins. They were grown in defined media with different carbon and Gibbs energy sources and 2,3,7,8-TCDD. Cultures with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the sole carbon and energy source degraded about 95% of 2,3,7,8-TCDD within 60 days of cultivation. Those with an additional 1 mM of vanillin did that in roughly 90 days. Further 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that the increase in relative abundance of members belonging to the generaBordetella,Sphingomonas,Proteiniphilum, andRhizobiumcorrelated to increased biodegradation of 2,3,7,8-TCDD in these cultures. A higher concentration of vanillin slowed down the biodegradation rate. Addition of alternative carbon and Gibbs energy sources, such as amino acids, sodium lactate and sodium acetate, even stopped the degradation of 2,3,7,8-TCDD completely. Bacteria from the generaBordetella,Achromobacter,SphingomonasandPseudomonasdominated most of the cultures, but the microbial profiles also significantly differed between cultures as judged by non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analyses. Our study indicates that 2,3,7,8-TCDD degradation may be stimulated by bacterial communities preadapted to a certain degree of starvation with respect to the carbon and energy source. It also reveals the succession and abundance of defined bacterial genera in the degradation process.
Neocosmospora rubicola, a stem rot disease in potato: Characterization, distribution and management
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Akhtar Naureen , Msimbira Levini A. , Antar Mohammed , Ashraf Shoaib , Khan Salik Nawaz , Smith Donald L.
Published: August 2022

Potato (Solanum tuberosumL.) is one of the most important crops in maintaining global food security. Plant stand and yield are affected by production technology, climate, soil type, and biotic factors such as insects and diseases. Numerous fungal diseases includingNeocosmospora rubicola, causing stem rot, are known to have negative effects on potato growth and yield quality. The pathogen is known to stunt growth and cause leaf yellowing with grayish-black stems. The infectivity ofN. rubicolaacross a number of crops indicates the need to search for appropriate management approaches. Synthetic pesticides application is a major method to mitigate almost all potato diseases at this time. However, these pesticides significantly contribute to environmental damage and continuous use leads to pesticide resistance by pathogens. Consumers interest in organic products have influenced agronomists to shift toward the use of biologicals in controlling most pathogens, includingN. rubicola. This review is an initial effort to carefully examine current and alternative approaches to controlN. rubicolathat are both environmentally safe and ecologically sound. Therefore, this review aims to draw attention to theN. rubicoladistribution and symptomatology, and sustainable management strategies for potato stem rot disease. Applications of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) as bioformulations with synthetic fertilizers have the potential to increase the tuber yield in both healthy andN. rubicolainfested soils. Phosphorus and nitrogen applications along with the PGPB can improve plants uptake efficiency and reduce infestation of pathogen leading to increased yield. Therefore, to controlN. rubicolainfestation, with maximum tuber yield benefits, a pre-application of the biofertilizer is shown as a better option, based on the most recent studies. With the current limited information on the disease, precise screening of the available resistant potato cultivars, developing molecular markers for resistance genes againstN. rubicolawill assist to reduce spread and virulence of the pathogen.
Tuberactinomycin antibiotics: Biosynthesis, anti-mycobacterial action, and mechanisms of resistance
Authors: Laughlin Zane T. , Conn Graeme L.
Published: August 2022

The tuberactinomycins are a family of cyclic peptide ribosome-targeting antibiotics with a long history of use as essential second-line treatments for drug-resistant tuberculosis. Beginning with the identification of viomycin in the early 1950s, this mini-review briefly describes tuberactinomycin structures and biosynthesis, as well as their past and present application in the treatment of tuberculosis caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. More recent studies are also discussed that have revealed details of tuberactinomycin action on the ribosome as well as resistance mechanisms that have emerged since their introduction into the clinic. Finally, future applications of these drugs are considered in the context of their recent removal from the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines.
B4galnt2-mediated host glycosylation influences the susceptibility to Citrobacter rodentium infection
Authors: Suwandi Abdulhadi , Alvarez Kris Gerard , Galeev Alibek , Steck Natalie , Riedel Christian U. , Puente José Luis , Baines John F. , Grassl Guntram A.
Published: August 2022

Histo-blood group antigens in the intestinal mucosa play important roles in host–microbe interactions and modulate the susceptibility to enteric pathogens. The B4galnt2 gene, expressed in the GI tract of most mammals, including humans, encodes a beta-1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase enzyme which catalyzes the last step in the biosynthesis of the Sd(a) and Cad blood group antigens by adding an N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) residue to the precursor molecules. In our study, we found that loss of B4galnt2 expression is associated with increased susceptibility to Citrobacter rodentium infection, a murine model pathogen for human enteropathogenic Escherichia coli. We observed increased histopathological changes upon C. rodentium infection in mice lacking B4galnt2 compared to B4galnt2-expressing wild-type mice. In addition, wild-type mice cleared the C. rodentium infection faster than B4galnt2−/− knockout mice. It is known that C. rodentium uses its type 1 fimbriae adhesive subunit to bind specifically to D-mannose residues on mucosal cells. Flow cytometry analysis of intestinal epithelial cells showed the absence of GalNAc-modified glycans but an increase in mannosylated glycans in B4galnt2-deficient mice compared to B4galnt2-sufficient mice. Adhesion assays using intestinal epithelial organoid-derived monolayers revealed higher C. rodentium adherence to cells lacking B4galnt2 expression compared to wild-type cells which in turn was reduced in the absence of type I fimbriae. In summary, we show that B4galnt2 expression modulates the susceptibility to C. rodentium infection, which is partly mediated by fimbriae-mannose interaction.
Using the multi-omics approach to reveal the silk composition in Plectrocnemia conspersa
Authors: Rouhová Lenka , Sehadová Hana , Pauchová Lucie , Hradilová Miluše , Žurovcová Martina , Šerý Michal , Rindoš Michal , Žurovec Michal
Published: August 2022

Similar to Lepidoptera, the larvae of Trichoptera are also capable of producing silk. Plectrocnemia conspersa, a predatory species belonging to the suborder Annulipalpia, builds massive silken retreats with preycapturing nets. In this study, we describe the silk glands of P. conspersa and use the multi-omics methods to obtain a complete picture of the fiber composition. A combination of silk gland-specific transcriptome and proteomic analyses of the spun-out fibers yielded 27 significant candidates whose full-length sequences and gene structures were retrieved from the publicly available genome database. About one-third of the candidates were completely novel proteins for which there are no described homologs, including a group of five pseudofibroins, proteins with a composition similar to fibroin heavy chain. The rest were homologs of lepidopteran silk proteins, although some had a larger number of paralogs. On the other hand, P. conspersa fibers lacked some proteins that are regular components in moth silk. In summary, the multi-omics approach provides an opportunity to compare the overall composition of silk with other insect species. A sufficient number of such studies will make it possible to distinguish between the basic components of all silks and the proteins that represent the adaptation of the fibers for specific purposes or environments.
Effect of Al2O3 interlayers on the microstructure and electrical response of ferroelectric doped HfO2 thin films
Authors: Lederer Maximilian , Seidel Konrad , Olivo Ricardo , Kämpfe Thomas , Eng Lukas M.
Published: August 2022

Novel devices based on ferroelectric hafnium oxide comply with the increasing demand for highly scalable embedded non-volatile memory devices, especially for in-memory computing applications. However, due to the polycrystalline nature of these hafnium oxide films, highly scaled devices face variability concerns. In order to enable smaller grains to circumvent the current limitations, the introduction of Al2O3 interlayers to interrupt the columnar grain growth is presented herein. Transmission Kikuchi diffraction is utilized to investigate influences of the Al2O3 layer on the microstructure of hafnium oxide. Moreover, electrical analysis indicates how the interlayer affects the wake-up phenomena as well as the electric field distribution within the stack. These results provide evidence on how to control grain size, electric behavior, and crystallization temperature by the insertion of Al2O3 interlayers.
Inference of affordances and active motor control in simulated agents
Authors: Scholz Fedor , Gumbsch Christian , Otte Sebastian , Butz Martin V.
Published: August 2022

Flexible, goal-directed behavior is a fundamental aspect of human life. Based on the free energy minimization principle, the theory of active inference formalizes the generation of such behavior from a computational neuroscience perspective. Based on the theory, we introduce an output-probabilistic, temporally predictive, modular artificial neural network architecture, which processes sensorimotor information, infers behavior-relevant aspects of its world, and invokes highly flexible, goal-directed behavior. We show that our architecture, which is trained end-to-end to minimize an approximation of free energy, develops latent states that can be interpreted as affordance maps. That is, the emerging latent states signal which actions lead to which effects dependent on the local context. In combination with active inference, we show that flexible, goal-directed behavior can be invoked, incorporating the emerging affordance maps. As a result, our simulated agent flexibly steers through continuous spaces, avoids collisions with obstacles, and prefers pathways that lead to the goal with high certainty. Additionally, we show that the learned agent is highly suitable for zero-shot generalization across environments: After training the agent in a handful of fixed environments with obstacles and other terrains affecting its behavior, it performs similarly well in procedurally generated environments containing different amounts of obstacles and terrains of various sizes at different locations.
Cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome after acute cerebellar stroke
Authors: Abderrakib Anissa , Ligot Noemie , Naeije Gilles
Published: August 2022

Introduction

The cerebellum modulates both motor and cognitive behaviors, and a cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome (CCAS) was described after a cerebellar stroke in 1998. Yet, a CCAS is seldom sought for, due to a lack of practical screening scales. Therefore, we aimed at assessing both the prevalence of CCAS after cerebellar acute vascular lesion and the yield of the CCAS-Scale (CCAS-S) in an acute stroke setting.

Materials and methods

All patients admitted between January 2020 and January 2022 with acute onset of a cerebellar ischemic or haemorrhagic first stroke at the CUB-Hôpital Erasme and who could be evaluated by the CCAS-S within a week of symptom onset were included.

Results

Cerebellar acute vascular lesion occurred in 25/1,580 patients. All patients could complete the CCAS-S. A definite CCAS was evidenced in 21/25 patients. Patients failed 5.2 ± 2.12 items out of 8 and had a mean raw score of 68.2 ± 21.3 (normal values 82–120). Most failed items of the CCAS-S were related to verbal fluency, attention, and working memory.

Conclusion

A definite CCAS is present in almost all patients with acute cerebellar vascular lesions. CCAS is efficiently assessed by CCAS-S at bedside tests in acute stroke settings. The magnitude of CCAS likely reflects a cerebello-cortical diaschisis.
Genetic and phenotypic spectrum of Chinese patients with epilepsy and photosensitivity
Authors: Niu Yue , Gong Pan , Jiao Xianru , Xu Zhao , Zhang Yuehua , Yang Zhixian
Published: August 2022

Objective

To determine the contribution of genetic etiologies in epilepsy with photosensitivity.

Methods

A total of 35 epileptic patients with genetic photosensitivity from January 2019 to May 2021 were analyzed.

Results

Pathogenic variants were identified in 35 patients, including SCN1A(7) CHD2(6), TPP1(3), SYNGAP1(3), GABRA1(2), GABRG2(1), KCTD7(1), MFSD8(1), KCNC1(1) GBA(1), CACNA1A(1), KCNMA1(1), FLNA(1), SZT2(1), SLC2A1(1), 5q33.2-34del(1), and mitochondrial variants(3). The predominant epileptic syndrome was progressive myoclonus epilepsy (PME) and Dravet syndrome, while the most common seizure type in both spontaneous seizures and photoconvulsive response (PCR) was myoclonic seizures. The abnormal EEG background and brain MRI were mainly seen in the PME patients. In PME, initial low-frequencies (1–6 Hz) photosensitivity was observed in 70% (7/10) of patients. Among the other patients, 12 patients (48.0%, 12/25) had photosensitivity at initial low -frequencies and 12 patients (48.0%, 12/25) had photosensitivity at initial middle frequencies (6–20 Hz). At the 1-year follow-up, 77.7% (21/27) still remained photosensitive.

Conclusion

The most common genes for epilepsy with genetic photosensitivity are SCN1A and CHD2, and the most common syndromes are PME and Dravet syndrome. MFSD8, KCNMA1, SZT2, FLNA, and SLC2A1 variants might be candidate genes for photosensitivity. PPRs at initial low-frequencies may be a marker of PME, and the most typical feature of genetic photosensitivity may be low- or middle- frequencies induced PPRs. Photosensitivity in epilepsy with genetic photosensitivity may be difficult to disappear in a short period of time.
Understanding health care needs among Veterans with Parkinson's disease: A survey study
Authors: Feeney Megan , Duda John , Hiller Amie , Phillips Jay , Evers Christiana , Yarab Nicole , Todaro Veronica , Rader Lydia , Rosenfeld Sheera
Published: August 2022

Among Veterans, it is estimated that 110,000 are living with Parkinson's disease (PD) in the United States. Whether or not Veterans living with PD are enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), they may require special considerations when it comes to their care. We administered a survey to Parkinson's Foundation constituents with PD who had previously reported their Veteran status. Our goal was to identify areas where intervention can lead to improved health outcomes for Veterans living with Parkinson's disease. We specifically wanted to examine 1) the proportion of our Veteran constituents receiving services through the VHA, 2) the comprehensive care services that were utilized by Veterans living with PD, and 3) self-reported mental health and mobility status. We also wanted to compare those receiving care within and outside the VHA to see where there may be areas for improvement. With a response rate of 29.8% we received surveys from 409 United States Veterans with PD. As expected, mental health (MH) concerns in the previous 12 months were common with 36.0% of Veterans reporting concerns. Only 22.1% of respondents received care through VHA. Respondents with more falls and mental health concerns as well as those with higher levels of education and younger age were more likely to be seen at a VHA facility. In this sample, education level, household income, marital status, and VHA status were positively associated with increased health care utilization among Veterans. Those seen within the VHA were more likely to utilize MH and speech and language pathology consultation. This study highlights the importance of targeting educational outreach about care best practices for Veterans living with PD beyond VHA's current reach as well as the importance of access to good MH resources.
aEYE: A deep learning system for video nystagmus detection
Authors: Wagle Narayani , Morkos John , Liu Jingyan , Reith Henry , Greenstein Joseph , Gong Kirby , Gangan Indranuj , Pakhomov Daniil , Hira Sanchit , Komogortsev Oleg V. , Newman-Toker David E. , Winslow Raimond , Zee David S. , Otero-Millan Jorge , Green Kemar E.
Published: August 2022

Background

Nystagmus identification and interpretation is challenging for non-experts who lack specific training in neuro-ophthalmology or neuro-otology. This challenge is magnified when the task is performed via telemedicine. Deep learning models have not been heavily studied in video-based eye movement detection.

Methods

We developed, trained, and validated a deep-learning system (aEYE) to classify video recordings as normal or bearing at least two consecutive beats of nystagmus. The videos were retrospectively collected from a subset of the monocular (right eye) video-oculography (VOG) recording used in the Acute Video-oculography for Vertigo in Emergency Rooms for Rapid Triage (AVERT) clinical trial (#NCT02483429). Our model was derived from a preliminary dataset representing about 10% of the total AVERT videos (n = 435). The videos were trimmed into 10-sec clips sampled at 60 Hz with a resolution of 240 × 320 pixels. We then created 8 variations of the videos by altering the sampling rates (i.e., 30 Hz and 15 Hz) and image resolution (i.e., 60 × 80 pixels and 15 × 20 pixels). The dataset was labeled as “nystagmus” or “no nystagmus” by one expert provider. We then used a filtered image-based motion classification approach to develop aEYE. The model's performance at detecting nystagmus was calculated by using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Results

An ensemble between the ResNet-soft voting and the VGG-hard voting models had the best performing metrics. The AUROC, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 0.86, 88.4, 74.2, and 82.7%, respectively. Our validated folds had an average AUROC, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 0.86, 80.3, 80.9, and 80.4%, respectively. Models created from the compressed videos decreased in accuracy as image sampling rate decreased from 60 Hz to 15 Hz. There was only minimal change in the accuracy of nystagmus detection when decreasing image resolution and keeping sampling rate constant.

Conclusion

Deep learning is useful in detecting nystagmus in 60 Hz video recordings as well as videos with lower image resolutions and sampling rates, making it a potentially useful tool to aid future automated eye-movement enabled neurologic diagnosis.
Effects of intranasal oxytocin on the self-perception and anxiety of singers during a simulated public singing performance: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Osório Flávia de Lima , Espitia-Rojas Gleidy Vannesa , Aguiar-Ricz Lilian Neto
Published: August 2022

Professional musicians experience intense social exposure and high levels of preoccupation with their performance and potential negative reactions from the audience, which favor anxiety. Considering that oxytocin (OXT) has a potential therapeutic effect on anxiety, cognitive processes, and decreased psychosocial stress, this study’s objective was to assess the effects of a single dose of 24 UI of intranasal OXT among professional singers, during a public singing simulation test, on self-rated performance and mood. This crossover, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial addressed 54 male singers with different levels of musical performance anxiety (42% high). The participants took part in different phases of a simulated public singing performance and completed instruments rating their performances (Self Statements During Public Performance- State version) and mood (Visual Analogue Mood Scale). Data were analyzed using ANOVA 2 × 2 for crossover trials. The results show that the use of OXT during the performance and immediate post-stress favored more positive (effect size:d> 1.04) and less negative assessments of musical performance (effect size:d> 1.86) than when placebo was used. No treatment effects were found in any VAMS subscales, indicating no direct anxiolytic effects. The conclusion is that OXT can minimizes social stress, especially during performances. This finding is exploratory and, if confirmed in future studies, may have relevance for musicians, especially those who constantly experience and recognize the impact of negative and catastrophic thoughts on performance and professional activities.

Clinical Trial Registration

[https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-5r5sc5], identifier [RBR-5r5sc5].
Tumor markers and depression scores are predictive of non-suicidal self-injury behaviors among adolescents with depressive disorder: A retrospective study
Authors: Yi Peng-cheng , Qin Yan-hua , Zheng Chun-mei , Ren Ke-ming , Huang Lei , Chen Wei
Published: August 2022

Background

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is an important risk factor for suicide in adolescents with depressive disorders; therefore, it is important to predict NSSI occurrence as early as possible. Disturbances in biological rhythms are characteristic manifestations of depressive disorders and can lead to immune dysfunction, leading to changes in tumor markers. This study aimed to produce an index that utilizes tumor markers to predict NSSI behaviors among adolescents with depressive disorders.

Methods

A total of 120 hospitalized adolescent patients with depressive disorders aged 14–24 years were included in this study. Participants were divided into NSSI and non-NSSI groups based on self-reports using the Ottawa Self-Injury Inventory. Demographics, tumor marker concentrations, other peripheral blood indices, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores, and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) scores were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to develop a joint index, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was created to predict NSSI behaviors among adolescents with depressive disorders.

Results

Compared with the non-NSSI group, the NSSI group had significantly higher insight, retardation, insomnia, hopelessness, psychiatric anxiety, total HDRS and HAMA scores, and significantly higher levels of cancer antigen 125 (CA-125), cancer antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). In addition, a joint index was developed by combining CA-125, CA19-9, CEA, HDRS total score, HAMA total score and age using multiple logistic regression to predict NSSI behaviors. The area under the curve was 0.831, with a sensitivity and specificity of 0.734 and 0.891, respectively.

Conclusion

A combination of depression score, tumor marker levels, and age can identify NSSI behaviors among adolescents with depressive disorders.
How brain-computer interface technology may improve the diagnosis of the disorders of consciousness: A comparative study
Authors: Spataro Rossella , Xu Yiyan , Xu Ren , Mandalà Giorgio , Allison Brendan Z. , Ortner Rupert , Heilinger Alexander , La Bella Vincenzo , Guger Christoph
Published: August 2022

Objective

Clinical assessment of consciousness relies on behavioural assessments, which have several limitations. Hence, disorder of consciousness (DOC) patients are often misdiagnosed. In this work, we aimed to compare the repetitive assessment of consciousness performed with a clinical behavioural and a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) approach.

Materials and methods

For 7 weeks, sixteen DOC patients participated in weekly evaluations using both the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) and a vibrotactile P300 BCI paradigm. To use the BCI, patients had to perform an active mental task that required detecting specific stimuli while ignoring other stimuli. We analysed the reliability and the efficacy in the detection of command following resulting from the two methodologies.

Results

Over repetitive administrations, the BCI paradigm detected command following before the CRS-R in seven patients. Four clinically unresponsive patients consistently showed command following during the BCI assessments.

Conclusion

Brain-Computer Interface active paradigms might contribute to the evaluation of the level of consciousness, increasing the diagnostic precision of the clinical bedside approach.

Significance

The integration of different diagnostic methods leads to a better knowledge and care for the DOC.
Teleost Fish and Organoids: Alternative Windows Into the Development of Healthy and Diseased Brains
Authors: Fasano Giulia , Compagnucci Claudia , Dallapiccola Bruno , Tartaglia Marco , Lauri Antonella
Published: August 2022

The variety in the display of animals’ cognition, emotions, and behaviors, typical of humans, has its roots within the anterior-most part of the brain: the forebrain, giving rise to the neocortex in mammals. Our understanding of cellular and molecular events instructing the development of this domain and its multiple adaptations within the vertebrate lineage has progressed in the last decade. Expanding and detailing the available knowledge on regionalization, progenitors’ behavior and functional sophistication of the forebrain derivatives is also key to generating informative models to improve our characterization of heterogeneous and mechanistically unexplored cortical malformations. Classical and emerging mammalian models are irreplaceable to accurately elucidate mechanisms of stem cells expansion and impairments of cortex development. Nevertheless, alternative systems, allowing a considerable reduction of the burden associated with animal experimentation, are gaining popularity to dissect basic strategies of neural stem cells biology and morphogenesis in health and disease and to speed up preclinical drug testing. Teleost vertebrates such as zebrafish, showing conserved core programs of forebrain development, together with patients-derived in vitro 2D and 3D models, recapitulating more accurately human neurogenesis, are now accepted within translational workflows spanning from genetic analysis to functional investigation. Here, we review the current knowledge of common and divergent mechanisms shaping the forebrain in vertebrates, and causing cortical malformations in humans. We next address the utility, benefits and limitations of whole-brain/organism-based fish models or neuronal ensembles in vitro for translational research to unravel key genes and pathological mechanisms involved in neurodevelopmental diseases.
Gene expression signatures and cardiometabolic outcomes following 8-week mango consumption in individuals with overweight/obesity
Authors: Keathley Justine , de Toro-Martín Juan , Kearney Michèle , Garneau Véronique , Pilon Geneviève , Couture Patrick , Marette André , Vohl Marie-Claude , Couillard Charles
Published: August 2022

Background

Little is known about the impact of mango consumption on metabolic pathways assessed by changes in gene expression.

Methods

In this single-arm clinical trial, cardiometabolic outcomes and gene expression levels in whole blood samples from 26 men and women were examined at baseline and after 8 weeks of mango consumption and differential gene expression changes were determined. Based on changes in gene expression profiles, partial least squares discriminant analysis followed by hierarchical clustering were used to classify participants into subgroups of response and differences in gene expression changes and in cardiometabolic clinical outcomes following the intervention were tested.

Results

Two subgroups of participants were separated based on the resemblance of gene expression profiles in response to the intervention and as responders (n = 8) and non-responders (n = 18). A total of 280 transcripts were significantly up-regulated and 603 transcripts down-regulated following the intervention in responders, as compared to non-responders. Several metabolic pathways, mainly related to oxygen and carbon dioxide transport as well as oxidative stress, were found to be significantly enriched with differentially expressed genes. In addition, significantly beneficial changes in hip and waist circumference, c-reactive protein, HOMA-IR and QUICKI indices were observed in responders vs. non-responders, following the intervention.

Conclusion

The impact of mango consumption on cardiometabolic health appears to largely rely on interindividual variability. The novel transcriptomic-based clustering analysis used herein can provide insights for future research focused on unveiling the origins of heterogeneous responses to dietary interventions.

Clinical Trial Registration

[clinicaltrials.gov], identifier [NCT03825276].
Effect of annealing using plasma-activated water on the structure and properties of wheat flour
Authors: Yan Yizhe , Xue Xinhuan , Jin Xueyuan , Niu Bin , Chen Zhenzhen , Ji Xiaolong , Shi Miaomiao , He Yuan
Published: August 2022

In this study, wheat flour (WF) was modified by annealing (ANN) using plasma-activated water (PAW) for the first time. Compared with WF and DW-WF, the results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and particle-size analysis showed that the granule structure of wheat starch in PAW-WF was slightly damaged, and the particle size of PAW-WF was significantly reduced. The results of X-ray diffraction and Fourier transforming infrared spectroscopy indicated that PAW-ANN could reduce the long-range and short-range order degrees of wheat starch and change the secondary structure of the protein in WF, in which the content of random coils and α-helices was significantly increased. In addition, the analysis of solubility, viscosity, and dynamic rheological properties showed that PAW-ANN improved the solubility and gel properties of WF and decreased its viscosity properties and short-term regeneration. PAW-ANN, as a green modification technology, has the potential for further application in WF modification, as well as in the production of flour products.
Alleviating effects of pea peptide on oxidative stress injury induced by lead in PC12 cells via Keap1/Nrf2/TXNIP signaling pathway
Authors: Li Ning , Wen Liuding , Wang Fangyu , Li Tiange , Zheng Haodan , Wang Tianlin , Qiao Mingwu , Huang Xianqing , Song Lianjun , Bukyei Erkigul , Li Mingming
Published: August 2022

Background

Lead poisoning causes an oxidative stress response – a key “bridge” connecting various pathways – in the human body. Oxidative stress usually implies an imbalance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants. Moreover, Nrf2, Keap1, and TXNIP proteins play an essential role in oxidative stress. Some studies showed that pea peptides could alleviate the oxidative stress response. However, the effect and mechanism of pea peptide on oxidative stress response induced by lead in PC12 cells has not been reported.

Aim

Investigating the effect and mechanism of pea peptides in alleviating oxidative damage in PC12 cells induced by lead.

Methods

In this study, cell viability was measured by CCK8 (Cell Counting Kit-8). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and lipid peroxidation (MDA) were measured using the corresponding Biochemical kits. The Keap1, Nrf2, and TXNIP protein expressions were tested using Western blot.

Results

Pea peptides PP3, PP4, and PP6 could reverse the decrease of cell viability caused by lead exposure (P < 0.05), the elevation of ROS and MDA caused by lead exposure, and the decrease of CAT, SOD, GR, GPx, and GSH/GSSG caused by lead exposure (P < 0.05). Moreover, PP3, PP4, and PP6 could reduce the elevated expression of Keap1 and TXNIP caused by lead exposure; and increase the expression of Nrf2 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

PP3, PP4, and PP6 can alleviate lead-induced oxidative stress damage in PC12 cells, and the Nrf2/Keap1/TXNIP signaling pathway may play an essential role in this process.
Physicochemical properties and immune-enhancing activity of graded polysaccharides from the peels of stem lettuce (Lactuca sativa) by cascade membrane technology
Authors: Zou Xian-Guo , Cao Yu-Qin , Li Jing-Jing , Guan Xiao-Qian , Cai Ming , Sun Pei-Long , Yang Kai
Published: August 2022

In this study, cascade membrane technology was applied to classify polysaccharides from the peels of stem lettuce (PPSLs), and three graded polysaccharides (PPSL100, PPSL10, and PPSL1) were obtained using ultrafiltration membranes of 100, 10, and 1 kDa in sequence. The physicochemical properties and immune-modulatory activity of three PPSLs fractions were analyzed and compared. Results showed that all three fractions have characteristic absorption peak of polysaccharides determined by FT-IR, and their monosaccharide composition only consisted of glucose determined by HPLC. PPSL10 had the highest contents of total sugar (88.09 ± 3.52%), uronic acid (2.55 ± 0.10%), and sulfate group (4.15 ± 0.20%). Besides, all three fractions exhibited immune-enhancing activities using RAW264.7 macrophages model, and PPSL10 was the best able to promote phagocytosis of neutral red and nitric oxide generation, which might relate to the high contents of above compositions and medium molecular weight (32 kDa). The findings indicated that PPSL10 could be developed as immune-modulator in the field of functional foods.
GlioMarker: An integrated database for knowledge exploration of diagnostic biomarkers in gliomas
Authors: Ran Zihan , Yang Jingcheng , Liu Yaqing , Chen XiuWen , Ma Zijing , Wu Shaobo , Huang Yechao , Song Yueqiang , Gu Yu , Zhao Shuo , Fa Mengqi , Lu Jiangjie , Chen Qingwang , Cao Zehui , Li Xiaofei , Sun Shanyue , Yang Tao
Published: August 2022

Gliomas are the most frequent malignant and aggressive tumors in the central nervous system. Early and effective diagnosis of glioma using diagnostic biomarkers can prolong patients’ lives and aid in the development of new personalized treatments. Therefore, a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic biomarkers in gliomas is of great significance. To this end, we developed the integrated and web-based database GlioMarker (http://gliomarker.prophetdb.org/), the first comprehensive database for knowledge exploration of glioma diagnostic biomarkers. In GlioMarker, accurate information on 406 glioma diagnostic biomarkers from 1559 publications was manually extracted, including biomarker descriptions, clinical information, associated literature, experimental records, associated diseases, statistical indicators, etc. Importantly, we integrated many external resources to provide clinicians and researchers with the capability to further explore knowledge on these diagnostic biomarkers based on three aspects. (1) Obtain more ontology annotations of the biomarker. (2) Identify the relationship between any two or more components of diseases, drugs, genes, and variants to explore the knowledge related to precision medicine. (3) Explore the clinical application value of a specific diagnostic biomarker through online analysis of genomic and expression data from glioma cohort studies. GlioMarker provides a powerful, practical, and user-friendly web-based tool that may serve as a specialized platform for clinicians and researchers by providing rapid and comprehensive knowledge of glioma diagnostic biomarkers to subsequently facilitates high-quality research and applications.
A systematic review of margin status in retroperitoneal liposarcomas: Does the R0 margin matter?
Authors: Paik Benjamin , Seo Chin Jin , Tan Joey Wee-Shan , Juan Wen Kai Darryl , Soo Khee Chee , Ong Chin-Ann Johnny , Chia Claramae Shulyn , Wong Jolene Si Min
Published: August 2022

Retroperitoneal liposarcomas (RPLPSs) are a rare tumor group for which current guidelines recommend aggressive en bloc resection to attain microscopically negative (R0) margins. To ensure R0 margins, resection of adherent or adjacent organs is often required. However, it is still unclear if R0 margins confer any additional benefit to patients over a grossly negative but microscopically positive (R1) margin. We performed a systematic search of PubMed and Embase databases for studies including patients receiving R0 or R1 resection for RPLPS. Nine retrospective cohort studies, one prospective cohort study, and 49 case reports/case series were included. A total of 552 patients with RPLPS were evaluated: 346 underwent R0 resection and 206 underwent R1 resection. In the R0 group, 5-year overall survival (OS) ranged from 58.3% to 85.7%; local recurrence (LR) ranged from 45.5% to 52.3%. In the R1 group, 5-year OS ranged from 35% to 55.3%; LR ranged from 66.7% to 91.7%. Among cohort studies, OS, disease-free survival (DFS), LR rate, and LR-free survival (LRFS) were significantly associated with R0 resections. Assessment of case series and reports suggested that the R0 margin led to a slightly higher morbidity than that of R1. In conclusion, this review found the R0 margin to be associated with reductions in LR rates and improved OS when compared with the R1 margins, though accompanied by slight increases in morbidity. The roles of tumor histotype and perioperative chemotherapy or radiotherapy were not well-elucidated in this review.
Investigational cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor GLR2007 demonstrates activity against isocitrate dehydrogenase wild-type glioblastoma and other solid tumors in mice xenograft models
Authors: Yin Lei , Yao Zhenglin , Wang Yue , Mazuranic Michelle
Published: August 2022

Cyclin-dependent kinases, CDK4 and CDK6, are essential in regulating the cell cycle, which is disrupted in cancers like isocitrate dehydrogenase wild-type glioblastoma (GBM). Currently marketed CDK4/6 inhibitors, including abemaciclib, have shown preclinical efficacy in solid tumors, but factors such as poor blood–brain barrier (BBB) penetration limit their efficacy in GBM. GLR2007 is an investigational CDK4/6 inhibitor with the potential for improved BBB penetration. In vitro assays were used to assess the potency and inhibition of CDK4/6 enzymatic activity of GLR2007. Using in vivo assays, the distribution of radiolabeled GLR2007 in rats was determined through quantitative whole-body autoradiography. The antitumor efficacy of GLR2007 was evaluated in human GBM and breast cancer orthotopic mice xenograft models, and human lung, colorectal, and liver cancer in a subcutaneous xenograft model. In tumor cell line proliferation assays, GLR2007 inhibited proliferation at lower concentration values than abemaciclib in 19 of 20 GBM, five of seven breast, 20 of 21 lung, and 24 of 24 liver cancer cell lines. Total levels of radiolabeled GLR2007 in the brains of rats exceeded those in plasma by 2.3–4.5-fold from 2–6 hours after dosing. A xenograft model showed that, compared with vehicle control, 50 mg/kg GLR2007 induced 95.9% tumor growth inhibition (TGI) (P<0.001) in GBM orthotopic xenografts, 81.4% TGI (P=0.037) in breast cancer orthotopic xenografts, and 91.5% TGI (P<0.001) in colorectal cancer subcutaneous xenografts. These studies show possible BBB penetration of GLR2007 and demonstrate its potential as a CDK4/6 inhibitor for the treatment of solid tumors, including GBM.
A review of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor signaling and regulation with implications for cancer
Authors: Park Sungjin David , Saunders Apryl S. , Reidy Megan A. , Bender Dawn E. , Clifton Shari , Morris Katherine T.
Published: August 2022

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor (GCSFR) is a critical regulator of granulopoiesis. Studies have shown significant upregulation of GCSFR in a variety of cancers and cell types and have recognized GCSFR as a cytokine receptor capable of influencing both myeloid and non-myeloid immune cells, supporting pro-tumoral actions. This systematic review aims to summarize the available literature examining the mechanisms that control GCSFR signaling, regulation, and surface expression with emphasis on how these mechanisms may be dysregulated in cancer. Experiments with different cancer cell lines from breast cancer, bladder cancer, glioma, and neuroblastoma are used to review the biological function and underlying mechanisms of increased GCSFR expression with emphasis on actions related to tumor proliferation, migration, and metastasis, primarily acting through the JAK/STAT pathway. Evidence is also presented that demonstrates a differential physiological response to aberrant GCSFR signal transduction in different organs. The lifecycle of the receptor is also reviewed to support future work defining how this signaling axis becomes dysregulated in malignancies.