bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncocytoma-Like Angiomyolipoma of the Kidney: A Closer Look into the Clinicopathologic, Immunohistochemical, and Molecular Characteristics of a Rare Entity with Review of the Literature
Authors: Doytcheva Kristina , Storozuk Tanner , Tjota Melissa , Antic Tatjana
Published: July 2023

Introduction. Angiomyolipoma (AML) is a mesenchymal neoplasm that belongs to the perivascular epithelioid cell tumor family (PEComa). AMLs can be subtyped into several patterns dependent on cell type, morphology, and tissue composition. One of the patterns, oncocytoma-like AML is a rare entity with only three cases published in the literature. Case presentation. We present a case of a previously healthy 29-year-old woman who underwent a left partial nephrectomy secondary to a 4.6 cm heterogeneous renal neoplasm. Gross examination demonstrated a well-circumscribed renal mass. Modified Giemsa stain preparation showed oncocytic cells in syncytial pattern with ample granular cytoplasm and round nuclei with prominent nucleoli. Histology assessment showed an oncocytic neoplasm with interspersed adipose tissue. The tumor exhibited tubular architecture with the tubules lined by eosinophilic epithelioid cells with nuclear atypia and prominent nucleoli. Thick blood vessels with emanating epithelioid cells were present. High-grade histology features were not identified. The tumor cells were positive for HMB-45 and SMA and negative for PAX8, keratins, KIT, and vimentin. A diagnosis of oncocytoma-like AML was rendered. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and RNA fusion were performed. NGS revealed no pathogenic variants and RNA fusion identified no rearrangements. Chromosomal copy number alterations were present in the long arm of chromosome 1 (1p) and chromosome 22. Conclusions. We describe and discuss the clinical, cytomorphologic, histologic, and molecular findings of oncocytoma-like AML, a rare renal neoplasm, and provide a review of the literature.
Incidental Metaplastic Primary Pulmonary Meningioma
Authors: Barrett Tingting , George Zeegan , Khatskevich Katsiaryna , Forcucci Jessica A. , Hajar Chadi
Published: July 2023

Primary pulmonary meningioma is a rare benign tumor usually presenting as a solitary pulmonary nodule or mass. It can be easily misinterpreted as a primary lung tumor or metastases on imaging studies. We present a 54-year-old woman with an incidentally discovered solitary lung nodule, which was diagnosed as metaplastic primary pulmonary meningioma following resection. Metaplastic meningioma is a rare WHO grade 1 meningioma subtype with focal or global mesenchymal differentiation. To the authors’ knowledge, primary pulmonary meningioma with mesenchymal differentiation has not been described previously in the English literature.
Mechanism analysis of low-frequency swaying motion of high-speed trains induced by aerodynamic loads
Authors: Ding Xin , Chang Chao , Ling Liang , Sun Zhuang , Yu Yizheng , Zhang Lei , Zhai Wanming
Published: July 2023

Abnormal carbody vibrations can significantly affect the safety and stability of high-speed trains. In this study, we conducted field measurements to analyze low-frequency swaying of a high-speed train on the Chinese alpine railway line. The test results reveal that the tail vehicle of the train swayed laterally in certain sections of the track, resulting in vehicle lateral stability index exceeding the limit. The swaying frequency of the carbody was mainly distributed in the range of 1.4–1.5 Hz. The causes of abnormal swaying were analyzed by establishing a computational fluid calculation model. Computational fluid dynamics calculations revealed that lift force, side force, and yaw moment were higher for the tail vehicle compared to the head and middle vehicles. The train-track coupled dynamics simulation results demonstrate that aerodynamics disturbances may be the key factor to intensify the abnormal swaying of the high-speed train tail vehicle.
Digital image correlation analyses of masonry infilled frame: Uncertainty-based mesh refinement and damage quantification
Authors: Sciuti Vinicius Fiocco , Vargas Rafael , Guerrero Néstor , Marante María Eugenia , Hild François
Published: July 2023

Masonry walls are subjected to cyclic lateral loads to study damage caused by earthquakes. Imaging techniques are useful to quantify crack networks in such tests, where preferential locations for their initiation are not present. However, detecting small cracks in large structures is challenging. It is shown that finite element (FE)-based digital image correlation (DIC) can detect and quantify cracks by combining optical and mechanical information of a cyclic shear experiment performed on a full-size masonry wall. Pixel-wise gray-level residuals and elementary crack opening displacement fields are the key quantities of the proposed framework. Detection criteria based on standard uncertainties guided the application of new DIC strategies (i.e., mechanical regularization, mesh adaption, and damage). Two damage regimes were quantified. Zigzagged cracks were first formed, for which their opening displacements were on average less than 0.5 mm with very limited damage. They were followed by sliding shear cracks, whose mean opening displacements varied between 1 and 3 mm, and damage developed in a more gradual and extended way. Such rich full-field data set may be used for validating damage models up to full-scale simulations.
Thiol/disulfide homeostasis as a new oxidative stress marker in patients with Fabry disease
Authors: Erdal Huseyin , Turgut Faruk
Published: July 2023

This is the first study to show both dynamic thiol-disulfide balance and oxidative stress levels in patients with Fabry disease (FD). This prospective study consists of 30 FD patients and 30 healthy controls. Thiol and disulfide values of the study groups were evaluated using a new, cost-effective and fully automatic colorimetric method. A total of 60 subjects were included in the study. A statistically significant difference was found between the patient and control groups for native and total thiol levels ( p < 0.001). In addition, disulfide levels were significantly higher in FD patients compared with the control group ( p < 0.003). Native thiol levels showed significantly negative correlation with lysosomal globotriaosylceramide, total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels. In addition, a positive correlation was found between disulfide/natural thiol and disulfide/total thiol ratios and TOS, OSI, and blood urea nitrogen. We found total antioxidant status levels were lower in the patient group compared to the control group, while TOS and OSI levels were higher and were statistically significant. This study highlights for the first time a novel, cost-effective and fully automated measurement of thiol-disulfide levels in patients with FD. Determination of thiol levels can make important contributions to understand the etiopathogenesis and follow-up of the disease in FD patients.
Intelligent Personal Assistants in practice. Situational agencies and the multiple forms of cooperation without consensus
Authors: Waldecker David , Hector Tim , Hoffmann Dagmar
Published: July 2023

There are at least two perspectives concerning the role of digital and connected media systems in relation to individual agency. One suggests that individuals have a gain in agency while using digital devices and services while other approaches see that users become dependent on tech companies that use data flows to analyse and manipulate user behaviour. In our paper, we want to examine empirically how those two descriptions of agency work out and relate to each other. We use conversation analysis of face-to-interface interactions with smart speakers and intelligent personal assistants to examine the agency in front of the device and we rely on interviews with smart-speaker users to understand the users’ strategies to curtail the potentially unwanted effects of smart and connected devices and services. With reference to concepts of ‘co-operative work’ and ‘cooperation without consensus’ and a discussion of media and data practices, this paper elucidates how the two agencies of users and of device and service providers are intertwined and distributed.
How the pandemic has changed innovation collaboration in SMEs, as illustrated by four co-innovation projects
Authors: Blais Caroline , Cloutier Amélie
Published: July 2023

The recent health crisis has particularly affected small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Some have had to temporarily close their doors. Others chose to innovate by developing new products to take advantage of the situation and survive. However, innovation is a risky strategy, so there are many failures. Innovation collaboration is one way of limiting these failures and increasing the chances of project success. Nevertheless, little is known about SMEs’ innovation collaboration practices in the context of a crisis, and even before the pandemic, and further research is needed. This study aims to understand the innovation process and the collaboration practices adopted by SMEs for their product innovation projects to cope with the pandemic, by comparing their pre-pandemic practices with those implemented at the start of the pandemic. Based on four successful product innovation projects in two different SMEs, our results show that, at the start of the pandemic, collaborations included a larger number of partners, involved in more stages of the innovation process, in order to accelerate the new product development and commercialization, rapidly provide the necessary resources and response to customer needs.
Effect of Capitolunate Positioning on Outcomes in Scaphoid Excision and 4-Bone Fusion Patients
Authors: Hallihan Cameron L. , Goitz Robert J. , Kaufmann Robert A. , Fowler John R.
Published: July 2023

Background:

Scaphoid excision and 4-bone fusion (4BF) is a surgical procedure to treat scapholunate advanced collapse. Some surgeons align the lunate over the capitates, whereas others leave the capitate in its uncovered native position. The capitolunate angle may affect long-term outcomes. This study examined whether postsurgical outcomes differed based on these differences in positioning.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed for patients that underwent a 4BF between 2006 and 2020. Wrist range of motion; pain (0-10); and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores were recorded. The width of the capitate, the width of the lunate contacting the capitate, and the capitolunate angle were measured. Pearson correlations and t tests were performed. For t tests of capitolunate uncovering, patients were divided into 2 groups: patients with 0% capitate uncovering and patients with >0% uncovering. For capitolunate angle, the 2 groups were patients with a capitolunate angle of ≤10° and patients with a capitolunate angle of >10°.

Results:

There was a significant correlation between capitate coverage and wrist extension, but no correlation for flexion, pain, or DASH scores. Group 1 (0% uncovering) had increased wrist extension and decreased pain compared with group 2 (>0% uncovering). There were no significant correlations or differences in the analyses of capitolunate angle’s impact on outcomes.

Conclusions:

In patients undergoing 4BF, those who had the lunate aligned to completely cover the capitate head had improved wrist extension and pain compared with patients where the capitate head was left partially uncovered. Capitolunate angle was not predictive of postsurgical outcomes.
The Workings of Contempt in Classical Indian Texts
Authors: Heim Maria
Published: July 2023

This article examines Sanskrit and Pali conceptions of contempt, and explores how they work in a number of ancient Indian genres, with a sustained focus on the Rāmāyaṇa. The article argues that while Indian texts often analyze emotion words and concepts systematically and with intricate granularity, contempt was not seen as an interior state to be theorized or managed therapeutically or morally. Rather, words for contempt are used to describe behaviors, etiquette, and social relationships, and are principally concerned with stipulating social status.
Contempt and Righteous Anger: A Gendered Perspective From a Classical Indian Epic
Authors: Ram-Prasad Chakravarthi
Published: July 2023

Reading a passage in the Sanskrit Mahābhārata—the attempted disrobing of Princess Draupadī after her senior husband has gambled her away (after losing all his wealth, his brothers and himself)—I suggest that we see in her attitude and angry words an expression of contempt. I explore how contempt is a concept that is not thematized within Sanskrit aesthetics of emotions, but nonetheless is clearly articulated in the literature. Focusing on the significance of her gendered expression of anger and contempt, and the positive acceptance of it in the text, I suggest that contempt can be understood as a transformative attitude in a woman (even a high-born one) towards iniquities in a patriarchal culture.
Expressing Contempt in Rome—Language, Rhetoric, and Critique
Authors: Schulz Verena
Published: July 2023

This article presents three brief case studies of the way Romans talked about and expressed contempt. It examines aspects of discourses about contempt that are characteristic both of Roman literature and of modern concepts. The focus is on the relationship of hierarchy, recognition, and (active and passive) contempt in the Latin vocabulary and in two literary motifs taken from invective and historiography, two genres in which expressions of contempt are particularly frequent and prominent.
Contempt, Withdrawal and Equanimity in the Zhuangzi
Authors: Lai Karyn
Published: July 2023

The Zhuangzi, a 4th century BCE Daoist text, is sceptical about the political culture of its time. Those who debated conceptions of a good life were hostile to the views of others. They were intolerant and at times contemptuous of others who did not embody their values. In contrast to such negativity, the Zhuangzi promotes equanimity. The equanimity of the sagely person is grounded in a balance she maintains between engagement and withdrawal. Engaging critically, she problematises the lack of diversity in their options for a good life. By withdrawing, she refuses to be party to the squabbles that perpetuate intolerance. The paper aims to show how equanimity is possible, thereby articulating a new angle on emotions in the Zhuangzi.
Introduction: Contempt, Ancient and Modern
Authors: Cairns Douglas
Published: July 2023

An introduction to a collection of nine papers on contempt, bringing contemporary philosophical approaches to the phenomenon into relation with its construction and presentation in the four classical cultures of China, Greece, India, and Rome. The introduction offers a brief summary of the papers and places the issues that they explore in the wider research context of the historical and cross-cultural study of emotion.
L3-L4 Hyperlordosis and Decreased Lower Lumbar Lordosis Following Short-Segment L4-L5 Lumbar Fusion Surgery is Associated With L3-L4 Revision Surgery for Adjacent Segment Stenosis
Authors: Herrington Brandon J. , Fernandes Renan R. , Urquhart Jennifer C. , Rasoulinejad Parham , Siddiqi Fawaz , Bailey Christopher S.
Published: July 2023

Study Design

Retrospective review of prospective cohort.

Objectives

Reoperation at L3-L4 for adjacent segment disease (ASD) is common after L4-L5 spine fusion. L4-S1 lower lumbar lordosis (LLL) accounts for the majority of global lumbar lordosis (GLL) and is modifiable during surgery. We sought to determine if a reduction in LLL leads to an increase in L3-L4 focal lumbar lordosis (L3-L4 FLL) and resulting risk of ASD at L3-L4.

Methods

We reviewed the records of a prospective cohort with lumbar spinal stenosis who underwent L4-L5 or L4-L5-S1 fusion between 2006 and 2012. Radiographic parameters—GLL, LLL, L3-L4 FLL, upper lumbar lordosis, lordosis distribution index, pelvic tilt, and pelvic incidence—were extracted from preoperative and postoperative lumbar spine radiographs. Statistical comparisons were made between those who underwent revision for post-fusion adjacent level stenosis at L3-L4 (REVISION) and those who did not (NO REVISION).

Results

Inclusion criteria were met by 104 patients. The REVISION cohort included 19 individuals. No significant differences in baseline demographics or operative details for the index procedure were found between groups. Postoperatively, when compared to the NO REVISION cohort, the REVISION cohort had a decrease in LLL (-2.6° vs + 1.5°, P = .011) and LDI (-5.1% vs + 1.3%, P = .039), and an increase in L3-L4 FLL (+2.6° vs -.6°, P = .001).

Conclusions

A reduction in LLL and compensatory increase in L3-L4 FLL after initial lower lumbar fusion surgery resulted in more reoperation at L3-L4 for post-fusion adjacent level spinal stenosis.
Prioritization, Incentives, and Resource Use for Sustainable Dentistry: The EU PRUDENT Project
Authors: Listl S. , van Ardenne O. , Grytten J. , Gyrd-Hansen D. , Lang H. , Melo P. , Nemeth O. , Tubert-Jeannin S. , Vassallo P. , van Veen E.B. , Vernazza C. , Waitzberg R. , Winkelmann J. , Woods N.
Published: July 2023

PRUDENT (Prioritization, incentives and Resource use for sUstainable DENTistry) is a multinational project funded under the European Union’s (EU’s) Horizon Europe program. Our team includes partners from Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and the United Kingdom; we aim to develop and implement an innovative and context-adaptive framework for optimal financing of oral health care that enables access to essential oral health care for everyone without causing financial hardship. PRUDENT will leverage health economics and implementation science methods to convert novel evidence on oral health financing into meaningful improvements of oral care. PRUDENT will harness behavioral experiments, system dynamics modeling, implementation trials, deliberative processes, and a multicountry monitoring framework on oral health care financing in the EU. Using a mixed-methods research design, PRUDENT addresses 3 objectives: (1) to develop a harmonized core set of oral health system indicators, implement them in a novel EU-wide monitoring system, and integrate them in deliberative processes to set priorities for oral care financing; (2) to identify optimization strategies for oral health care financing, in which real-world and lab experiments on provider payment and oral care insurance coverage, needs-adaptive resource planning, regulatory learning, and digital decision aid tools are leveraged to help accelerate transformations in oral care financing; and (3) to harness innovative knowledge transfer strategies for the co-development and co-production of sustainable implementation strategies for oral and general health care financing. Through improving access to essential oral care for everyone without causing financial hardship, PRUDENT is expected to help achieve universal health coverage for oral health.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

The EU PRUDENT project aims to enhance the financing of oral health systems through novel evidence and implementation of better financing solutions together with citizens, patients, providers, and policy makers. The multicountry nature of the project offers unique windows of opportunity for rapid learning and improving within and across various contexts. PRUDENT is anticipated to strengthen capacities for better oral care financing in the EU and worldwide.
Anti-thymocyte globulin exposure in patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis undergoing autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Chiu Yu-Hsiang , Drijver Anouk , Admiraal Rick , van Rhenen Anna , Nierkens Stefan , van Laar Jacob M , Spierings Julia
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation improves event-free survival and lung function and reduces skin thickening in patients with progressive diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis. Anti-thymocyte globulin is a key lymphoablative constituent of conditioning protocols and is administered in a weight-based dosage. However, whether anti-thymocyte globulin exposure contributes to response to autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and lymphocyte reconstitution in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients is unknown. We aimed to explore the relationship between anti-thymocyte globulin exposure, lymphocyte reconstitution and treatment response in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients undergoing autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort of 15 diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients undergoing autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation was performed. Clinical characteristics and routine laboratory results were retrieved from electronic medical records. Anti-thymocyte globulin concentrations were measured in cryopreserved plasma samples at four time points (day 1 and week 1, 2 and 4) after stem cell reinfusion. Anti-thymocyte globulin exposure was estimated using a validated population pharmacokinetic model.

Results:

During a median follow-up of 45 months (interquartile range 19–66), 11 (73%) patients had a treatment response, and 4 (27%) were non-responders. Although all patients received the same weight-based anti-thymocyte globulin dosage, 7.5 mg/kg divided over 3 days, anti-thymocyte globulin exposure varied. Anti-thymocyte globulin exposure was higher in responders than in non-responders (163 AU*day/mL (interquartile range 153–183) and 137 AU*day/mL (interquartile range 101–149), respectively, p = .026). Anti-thymocyte globulin exposure was not correlated with lymphocyte reconstitution or infection rate.

Conclusion:

Weight-based dosing of anti-thymocyte globulin results in variable anti-thymocyte globulin exposure and treatment response across individuals.
Republication of “Cross-Sectional Assessment of Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Patient Knowledge”
Authors: Rosenbaum Andrew J. , Marinescu Anca Gabriela , Levine David , Ellis Scott J.
Published: July 2023

Background:

Individuals with limited health literacy often struggle in effectively communicating with their physicians and may lack the skills needed to make informed health decisions. It is therefore important that providers have insight into patients’ baseline medical knowledge, as this can help physicians customize their approach to, and conversations with, each patient. As such, this study evaluated the foot and ankle–specific knowledge of patients seeking care for various foot and ankle ailments.

Methods:

An unvalidated survey developed by our study group was distributed to 206 patients, assessing their knowledge of foot and ankle anatomy, terminology, conditions, treatment, and perioperative issues. Performance was evaluated as a function of participants’ demographic factors.

Results:

Participants performed significantly worse on the conditions and treatment questions as compared to the anatomy, terminology, and perioperative considerations subsections. Significantly better performance correlated with education (≥college), visit type (preoperative evaluation), a current or previous health care occupation, and prior orthopedic surgeon evaluation.

Conclusions:

Patients’ knowledge of foot and ankle anatomy, terminology, conditions, treatment, and perioperative issues correlates with certain patient characteristics and demographics. With enhanced insight into the risk factors for limited knowledge, education campaigns can be designed to target those most in need.
The pandemic booth: How spatial reconfigurations during the pandemic influence cooperation and communication among conference interpreters
Authors: Baumann Antonia
Published: July 2023

This article sheds light on how conference interpreting practice has changed since the beginning of the pandemic in Austria by drawing on the sociological concepts “body” and “space” as analytical and conceptual categories, among others shaped by Lindemann and Lindemann and Schünemann. The results of this study yield insights into the different modes of spatial organisation for conference interpreting during the pandemic; the ways these different organisational settings impacted cooperation among interpreters; and the interpreters’ perceptions of these reconfigurations in space and bodily presence. The data, obtained through an online survey and interviews with in total nine conference interpreters in Austria, show that a range of organisational settings is possible when working (completely or partly) remote, all entailing their individual particularities. Among the observed settings were conferences held on-site with strict anti-COVID measures; “hybrid” settings where interpreters worked on-site with speakers joining online or vice versa; and remote interpreting assignments. In remote assignments, more communication was necessary before the conference, for example, to discuss handovers. Additional communication tools were resorted to, and interpreters preferred working together in one physical place, for example, to facilitate cooperation. However, they also saw advantages in remote assignments.
Knockdown of DEC2 expression inhibits the proliferation of mesangial cells through suppressed glycolysis and p38 MAPK/Erk pathway in lupus nephritis
Authors: Qi Huimeng , Xu Li , Liu Qiang
Published: July 2023

Background

To elucidate the mechanism by which DEC2 modulates the proliferation of mesangial cells (MCs) in lupus nephritis (LN).

Methods

The 32-week-old female Fcgr2b−/− mice and their serum-treated MCs were used as in vivo and in vitro LN model. MCs knocked down of DEC2 and overexpressed with DEC2 were also established. The expression of DEC2 was measured in the kidneys of Fcgr2b−/− mice and LN serum-treated MCs using RT-qPCR and Western blot. MCs proliferation was detected by 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) labeling assay and PCNA expression using immunofluorescence. The glucose metabolism was evaluated in LN serum-treated MCs, and the levels of lactate production, glucose consumption, ATP production and mitochondrial membrane potential were assayed. The glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration function of the MCs were measured using the Extracellular Flux Analyzer. The extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) were dynamically monitored and multiple important bioenergetic parameters can be calculated. The expression of Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) were detected in the MCs. Multiple signaling proteins were screened.

Results

DEC2 was found overexpressed in the kidney of Fcgr2b−/− LN mice. Knockdown of DEC2 inhibited LN serum-induced MCs proliferation. DEC2 was associated with the glucose metabolism in LN serum-treated MCs. DEC2 regulated glycolysis in LN serum-treated MCs. DEC2 was associated with mitochondrial fitness in LN serum treated MCs. DEC2 activated MCs glycolysis through TLR4 and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) regulation. DEC2 regulated MCs proliferation through two signaling pathways including dependent and independent of glycolysis, which located in the downstream of TLR4 signaling.

Conclusion

Knockdown of DEC2 expression inhibits the proliferation of MCs through suppressed glycolysis and p38 MAPK/ERK pathway in LN.
Definitions matter: investigating indicators for transport poverty using different measurement tools
Authors: Verhorst Tom , Fu Xingxing , van Lierop Dea
Published: July 2023

Background

An individual’s inability to fully participate in social life due to limited means of transport options, in short, transport poverty, is a common theme in contemporary transport planning. However, due to the lack of a universal definition, identification and measurement of transport poverty can be challenging.

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the implications of three widely used definitions and a newly developed measurement scale by comparing them in terms of scale levels, measurement dimensions and research contexts

Methodology

This study first systematically reviews the literature on transport poverty and summarizes aspects of the transport poverty concept emphasized in previous studies. Using survey data from two Dutch cities, the study then measures transport poverty by means of a scoring system and an indicator derived from a new measurement scale by factor analysis. Finally, by performing a series of linear regression models on the generated scores, the predictors of each definition (measurement scale) are compared to identify which aspects of transport poverty are prioritized by each definition.

Findings

Each transport poverty definition correlates with a different set of predictors, indicating that the used definition of transport poverty has an impact on how the concept is identified and implying in which contexts the definition (measurement scale) can be applied. The findings could help policymakers evaluate the applicability of different transport poverty definitions in specific contexts and help them select the optimal measurement tool for assessing the problem they are aiming to solve.
The WUR0000125 PRRS resilience SNP had no apparent effect on pigs’ infectivity and susceptibility in a novel transmission trial
Authors: Chase-Topping Margo , Plastow Graham , Dekkers Jack , Li Yanhua , Fang Ying , Gerdts Volker , Van Kessel Jill , Harding John , Opriessnig Tanja , Doeschl-Wilson Andrea
Published: July 2023

Background

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) remains one of the most important infectious diseases for the pig industry. A novel small-scale transmission experiment was designed to assess whether the WUR0000125 (WUR for Wageningen University and Research) PRRS resilience single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) confers lower susceptibility and infectivity to pigs under natural porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV-2) transmission.

Methods

Commercial full- and half-sib piglets (n = 164) were assigned as either Inoculation, Shedder, or Contact pigs. Pigs were grouped according to their relatedness structure and WUR genotype, with R− and R+ referring to pigs with zero and one copy of the dominant WUR resilience allele, respectively. Barcoding of the PRRSV-2 strain (SD09-200) was applied to track pig genotype-specific transmission. Blood and nasal swab samples were collected and concentrations of PRRSV-2 were determined by quantitative (q)-PCR and cell culture and expressed in units of median tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50). The Log10TCID50 at each sampling event, derived infection status, and area under the curve (AUC) were response variables in linear and generalized linear mixed models to infer WUR genotype differences in Contact pig susceptibility and Shedder pig infectivity.

Results

All Shedder and Contact pigs, except one, became infected through natural transmission. There was no significant (p > 0.05) effect of Contact pig genotype on any virus measures that would indicate WUR genotype differences in susceptibility. Contact pigs tended to have higher serum AUC (p = 0.017) and log10TCID50 (p = 0.034) when infected by an R+ shedder, potentially due to more infectious R+ shedders at the early stages of the transmission trial. However, no significant Shedder genotype effect was found in serum (p = 0.274) or nasal secretion (p = 0.951) that would indicate genotype differences in infectivity.

Conclusions

The novel design demonstrated that it is possible to estimate genotype effects on Shedder pig infectivity and Contact pig susceptibility that are not confounded by family effects. The study, however, provided no supportive evidence that genetic selection on WUR genotype would affect PRRSV-2 transmission. The results of this study need to be independently validated in a larger trial using different PRRSV strains before dismissing the effects of the WUR marker or the previously detected GBP5 gene on PRRSV transmission.
Identification and characterization of circRNAs in peri-implantation endometrium between Yorkshire and Erhualian pigs
Authors: Zhou Chen , Cheng Xinyan , Meng Fanming , Wang Yongzhong , Luo Wanyun , Zheng Enqin , Cai Gengyuan , Wu Zhenfang , Li Zicong , Hong Linjun
Published: July 2023

Background

One of the most critical periods for the loss of pig embryos is the 12th day of gestation when implantation begins. Recent studies have shown that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play important regulatory roles during pregnancy. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a kind of ubiquitously expressed ncRNAs that can directly regulate the binding proteins or regulate the expression of target genes by adsorbing micro RNAs (miRNA).

Results

We used the Illumina Novaseq6,000 technology to analyze the circRNA expression profile in the endometrium of three Erhualian (EH12) and three Yorkshire (YK12) pigs on day 12 of gestation. Overall, a total of 22,108 circRNAs were identified. Of these, 4051 circRNAs were specific to EH12 and 5889 circRNAs were specific to YK12, indicating a high level of breed specificity. Further analysis showed that there were 641 significant differentially expressed circRNAs (SDEcircRNAs) in EH12 compared with YK12 (FDR < 0.05). Functional enrichment of differential circRNA host genes revealed many pathways and genes associated with reproduction and regulation of embryo development. Network analysis of circRNA-miRNA interactions further supported the idea that circRNAs act as sponges for miRNAs to regulate gene expression. The prediction of differential circRNA binding proteins further explored the potential regulatory pathways of circRNAs. Analysis of SDEcircRNAs suggested a possible reason for the difference in embryo survival between the two breeds at the peri-implantation stage.

Conclusions

Together, these data suggest that circRNAs are abundantly expressed in the endometrium during the peri-implantation period in pigs and are important regulators of related genes. The results of this study will help to further understand the differences in molecular pathways between the two breeds during the critical implantation period of pregnancy, and will help to provide insight into the molecular mechanisms that contribute to the establishment of pregnancy and embryo loss in pigs.
MicroRNA-668-3p inhibits myoblast proliferation and differentiation by targeting Appl1
Authors: Cao Haigang , Du Tianning , Li Chenchen , Wu Lingling , Liu Jieming , Guo Yuan , Li Xiao , Yang Gongshe , Jin Jianjun , Shi Xin’e
Published: July 2023

Background

Skeletal muscle is the largest tissue in the body, and it affects motion, metabolism and homeostasis. Skeletal muscle development comprises myoblast proliferation, fusion and differentiation to form myotubes, which subsequently form mature muscle fibres. This process is strictly regulated by a series of molecular networks. Increasing evidence has shown that noncoding RNAs, especially microRNAs (miRNAs), play vital roles in regulating skeletal muscle growth. Here, we showed that miR-668-3p is highly expressed in skeletal muscle.

Methods

Proliferating and differentiated C2C12 cells were transfected with miR-668-3p mimics and/or inhibitor, and the mRNA and protein levels of its target gene were evaluated by RT‒qPCR and Western blotting analysis. The targeting of Appl1 by miR-668-3p was confirmed by dual luciferase assay. The interdependence of miR-668-3p and Appl1 was verified by cotransfection of C2C12 cells.

Results

Our data reveal that miR-668-3p can inhibit myoblast proliferation and myogenic differentiation. Phosphotyrosine interacting with PH domain and leucine zipper 1 (Appl1) is a target gene of miR-668-3p, and it can promote myoblast proliferation and differentiation by activating the p38 MAPK pathway. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of miR-668-3p on myoblast cell proliferation and myogenic differentiation could be rescued by Appl1.

Conclusion

Our results indicate a new mechanism by which the miR-668-3p/Appl1/p38 MAPK pathway regulates skeletal muscle development.
Co-expression module analysis reveals high expression homogeneity for both coding and non-coding genes in sepsis
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Hong Chengying , Jiang Yichun , Li Wei , Chen Youlian , Ma Yonghui , Zhao Pengfei , Li Tiyuan , Chen Huaisheng , Liu Xueyan , Cheng Lixin
Published: July 2023

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by a harmful host response to infection with organ dysfunction. Annually about 20 million people are dead owing to sepsis and its mortality rates is as high as 20%. However, no studies have been carried out to investigate sepsis from the system biology point of view, as previous research predominantly focused on individual genes without considering their interactions and associations. Here, we conducted a comprehensive exploration of genome-wide expression alterations in both mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in sepsis, using six microarray datasets. Co-expression networks were conducted to identify mRNA and lncRNA modules, respectively. Comparing these sepsis modules with normal modules, we observed a homogeneous expression pattern within the mRNA/lncRNA members, with the majority of them displaying consistent expression direction. Moreover, we identified consistent modules across diverse datasets, consisting of 20 common mRNA members and two lncRNAs, namely CHRM3-AS2 and PRKCQ-AS1, which are potential regulators of sepsis. Our results reveal that the up-regulated common mRNAs are mainly involved in the processes of neutrophil mediated immunity, while the down-regulated mRNAs and lncRNAs are significantly overrepresented in T-cell mediated immunity functions. This study sheds light on the co-expression patterns of mRNAs and lncRNAs in sepsis, providing a novel perspective and insight into the sepsis transcriptome, which may facilitate the exploration of candidate therapeutic targets and molecular biomarkers for sepsis.
Genetic diversity and genome-wide association study of 13 agronomic traits in 977 Beta vulgaris L. germplasms
Authors: Liu Dali , Tan Wenbo , Wang Hao , Li Wangsheng , Fu Jingjing , Li Jiajia , Zhou Yuanhang , Lin Ming , Xing Wang
Published: July 2023

Background

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is an economically essential sugar crop worldwide. Its agronomic traits are highly diverse and phenotypically plastic, influencing taproot yield and quality. The National Beet Medium-term Gene Bank in China maintains more than 1700 beet germplasms with diverse countries of origin. However, it lacks detailed genetic background associated with morphological variability and diversity.

Results

Here, a comprehensive genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 13 agronomic traits was conducted in a panel of 977 sugar beet accessions. Almost all phenotypic traits exhibited wide genetic diversity and high coefficient of variation (CV). A total of 170,750 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were obtained using the genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). Neighbour-joining phylogenetic analysis, principal component analysis, population structure and kinship showed no obvious relationships among these genotypes based on subgroups or regional sources. GWAS was carried out using a mixed linear model, and 159 significant associations were detected for these traits. Within the 25 kb linkage disequilibrium decay of the associated markers, NRT1/PTR FAMILY 6.3 (BVRB_5g097760); nudix hydrolase 15 (BVRB_8g182070) and TRANSPORT INHIBITOR RESPONSE 1 (BVRB_8g181550); transcription factor MYB77 (BVRB_2g023500); and ethylene-responsive transcription factor ERF014 (BVRB_1g000090) were predicted to be strongly associated with the taproot traits of root groove depth (RGD); root shape (RS); crown size (CS); and flesh colour (FC), respectively. For the aboveground traits, UDP-glycosyltransferase 79B6 (BVRB_9g223780) and NAC domain-containing protein 7 (BVRB_5g097990); F-box protein At1g10780 (BVRB_6g140760); phosphate transporter PHO1 (BVRB_3g048660); F-box protein CPR1 (BVRB_8g181140); and transcription factor MYB77 (BVRB_2g023500) and alcohol acyltransferase 9 (BVRB_2g023460) might be associated with the hypocotyl colour (HC); plant type (PT); petiole length (PL); cotyledon size (C); and fascicled leaf type (FLT) of sugar beet, respectively. AP-2 complex subunit mu (BVRB_5g106130), trihelix transcription factor ASIL2 (BVRB_2g041790) and late embryogenesis abundant protein 18 (BVRB_5g106150) might be involved in pollen quantity (PQ) variation. The candidate genes extensively participated in hormone response, nitrogen and phosphorus transportation, secondary metabolism, fertilization and embryo maturation.

Conclusions

The genetic basis of agronomical traits is complicated in heterozygous diploid sugar beet. The putative valuable genes found in this study will help further elucidate the molecular mechanism of each phenotypic trait for beet breeding.
Exploring the correlation of metabolites changes and microbial succession in solid-state fermentation of Sichuan Sun-dried vinegar
Authors: Dong Ke , Li Weizhou , Xu Qiuhong , Hong Zehui , Zhang Shirong , Zhang Baochao , Wu Yating , Zuo Haojiang , Liu Jiazhen , Yan Ziwen , Pei Xiaofang
Published: July 2023

Background

The traditional Sichuan Sun-dried vinegar (SSV) with unique flavor and taste is believed to be generated by the solid-state fermentation craft. However, how microorganisms and their metabolites change along with fermentation has not yet been explored.

Results

In this study, our results demonstrated that the middle and late stages of SSV fermentation were the periods showing the largest accumulation of organic acids and amino acids. Furthermore, in the bacterial community, the highest average relative abundance was Lactobacillus (ranging from 37.55 to 92.50%) in all fermentation stages, while Acetobacters ranked second position (ranging from 20.15 to 0.55%). The number of culturable lactic acid bacteria is also increased during fermentation process (ranging from 3.93 to 8.31 CFU/g). In fungal community, Alternaria (29.42%), Issatchenkia (37.56%) and Zygosaccharomyces (69.24%) were most abundant in different fermentation stages, respectively. Interestingly, Zygosaccharomyces, Schwanniomyces and Issatchenkia were first noticed as the dominant yeast genera in vinegar fermentation process. Additionally, spearman correlation coefficients exhibited that Lactobacillus, Zygosaccharomyces and Schwanniomyces were significant correlation with most metabolites during the fermentation, implying that these microorganisms might make a significant contribution to the flavor formation of SSV.

Conclusion

The unique flavor of SSV is mainly produced by the core microorganisms (Lactobacillus, Zygosaccharomyces and Schwanniomyces) during fermentation. This study will provide detailed information related to the structure of microorganism and correlation between changes in metabolites and microbial succession in SSV. And it will be very helpful for proposing a potential approach to monitor the traditional fermentation process.
Intensive care unit admissions with and without COVID-19 in Finland from 2017 to 2021: a retrospective register-based study
Authors: Jäntti Saara , Ponkilainen Ville , Kuitunen Ilari , Uimonen Mikko M. , Huttunen Tuomas , Mattila Ville M.
Published: July 2023

Background

After the COVID-19 pandemic started, critical care resources were expanded in Finland to manage a possible surge in patients requiring intensive care. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of overall ICU admissions, patient diagnoses, characteristics, and length of stay during the pandemic.

Methods

This retrospective hospital register-based study was conducted in two large and one mid-size Finnish public hospitals. The required data were collected from ICU patient information systems and all adult patients were included. Monthly and yearly incidences with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were counted per 100 000 persons-years by Poisson exact method and compared by incidence rate ratios (IRR).

Results

A total of 4407 admissions to ICUs for any cause occurred during 2020. In 2021, this figure was 4931. During the reference years (2017–2019), the mean number of admissions to ICU was 4781. In 2020 and 2021, the proportion of patients requiring intensive care due to COVID-19 was only 3%. The incidence of all-cause ICU admissions decreased during the lockdown in 2020 when compared to the reference years. Before the start of the lockdown in February 2020, the IRR of all-cause ICU admissions was 1.02 (CI: 0.89 to 1.18). During the lockdown period, however, the IRR of all-cause ICU admissions decreased to 0.78 (CI: 0.67 to 0.90) in March. When the lockdown ended, the incidence rebounded to the same level as before the lockdown. However, in 2021, the incidence of ICU admissions remained at the same level when compared to the reference years. The most prominent changes occurred in the incidence of diseases of the nervous system, which includes epilepsy and seizures and transient cerebral ischemic attacks, in diseases of the respiratory system, and neoplasms.

Conclusions

According to the findings of this study, the incidence of all-cause ICU admissions decreased after the lockdown was implemented in 2020. Furthermore, the percentage of patients requiring intensive care due to COVID-19 in Finland was only 3% in 2020 and 2021. These findings may serve to help in the planning and allocating of ICU resources during future pandemics.
Ilaprazole-amoxicillin dual therapy at high dose as a first-line treatment for helicobacter pylori infection in Hainan: a single-center, open-label, noninferiority, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Dong , Zhang Da-Ya , Chen Run-Xiang , Chen Shi-Ju , Chen Chen , Zeng Fan , Huang Shi-Mei , Li Da , Bai Fei-Hu
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy, adverse events, patient compliance, and cost of dual therapy with Ilaprazole-amoxicillin (IA) at high dose versus Ilaprazole-amoxicillin-furazolidone-bismuth (IAFB) quadruple therapy for the Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) infection among Chinese patients.

Methods

200 patients who had tested positive for H. pylori and undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy after being diagnosed with chronic gastritis participated in this open-label randomized controlled clinical trial. Patients were randomized to Group A and Group B: the 14-day IA dual treatment group (101) and IAFB quadruple treatment group (99). The 13 C urea breath test was conducted to determine whether H. pylori had been eliminated 4–6 weeks after the treatment. Eradication rates, drug-related adverse events, patient compliance, and drug costs were compared between the two treatment groups.

Results

Eradication rates in group A were 92.1% and 94.9%, depending on the intention-to-treat (ITT), per-protocol (PP), respectively, which was similar to group B (91.9% and 93.6%). There was no significant difference observed in adverse events between the two groups (P = 0.518). Interestingly, compliance was significantly higher in group A compared to the group B (P = 0.031). In addition, drug costs were significantly lower for group A in comparison to the group B.

Conclusions

IA dual therapy was found to be equally effective, safer and less costly than IAFB quadruple therapy. Therefore, these therapies can be potentially considered as first-line regimens for empirical treatment.