bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific alterations of gut microbiota in diabetic microvascular complications: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hong Jinni , Fu Tingting , Liu Weizhen , Du Yu , Min Cunyun , Lin Datao
Published: December 2022

Background

The role of gut microbiota in diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications has been widely accepted. However, the alternation of gut microbiota in diabetic microvascular complications (DC) remains to be determined.

Methods

Publications (till August 20th, 2022) on gut microbiota in patients with DC were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane. Review Manager 5.3 was performed to estimate the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) and calculate alpha diversity indices and the relative abundance of gut microbiota between patients in DC v.s. DM and DC v.s. healthy controls (HC).

Results

We included 13 studies assessing 329 patients with DC, 232 DM patients without DC, and 241 HC. Compared to DM, patients with DC shared a significantly lower Simpson index (SMD = -0.59, 95% CI [-0.82, -0.36], p < 0.00001), but a higher ACE index (SMD = 0.42, 95% CI[0.11, 0.74], p = 0.009). Compared to HC, DC patients held a lower ACE index (SMD = -0.61, 95% CI[-1.20, -0.02], p = 0.04). The relative abundances of phylum Proteobacteria (SMD = 0.03, 95% CI[0.01, 0.04], p = 0.003, v.s. HC) and genus Klebsiella (SMD = 0.00, 95% CI[0.00, 0.00], p < 0.00001, v.s. HC) were enriched, accompanying with depleted abundances of phylum Firmicutes (SMD = -0.06, 95% CI[-0.11, -0.01], p = 0.02, v.s. HC), genera Bifidobacterium (SMD = -0.01, 95% CI[-0.02,-0.01], p < 0.0001, v.s. DM), Faecalibacterium (SMD = -0.01, 95% CI[-0.02, -0.00], p = 0.009, v.s. DM; SMD = -0.02, 95% CI[-0.02, -0.01], p < 0.00001, v.s. HC) and Lactobacillus (SMD = 0.00, 95% CI[-0.00, -0.00], p < 0.00001, v.s. HC) in DC.

Conclusions

Gut microbiota perturbations with the depletion of alpha diversity and certain short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria were associated with the pathology of DC. Therefore, gut microbiota might serve as a promising approach for the diagnosis and treatment of DC. Further investigations are required to study the mechanisms by which gut dysbiosis acts on the onset and progression of DC.
Improving frequency response for AC interconnected microgrids containing renewable energy resources
Authors: Elshenawy Mahmoud , Fahmy Ashraf , Elsamahy Adel , El Zoghby Helmy M. , Kandil Shaimaa A.
Published: December 2022

Interconnecting two or more microgrids can help improve power system performance under changing operational circumstances by providing mutual and bidirectional power assistance. This study proposes two interconnected AC microgrids based on three renewable energy sources (wind, solar, and biogas). The wind turbine powers a permanent magnet synchronous generator. A solar photovoltaic system with an appropriate inverter has been installed. In the biogas generator, a biogas engine is connected to a synchronous generator. M1 and M2, two interconnected AC microgrids, are investigated in this study. M2 is connected to a hydro turbine, which provides constant power. The distribution power loss, frequency, and voltage of interconnected AC microgrids are modeled as a multi-objective function (OF). Minimizing this OF will result in optimal power flow and frequency enhancement in interconnected AC microgrids. This research is different from the rest of the research works that talk about the virtual inertia control (VIC) method, as it not only improves frequency using an optimal controller but also achieves optimal power flow in microgrids. In this paper, the following five controllers have been studied: proportional integral controller (PI), fractional-order PI controller (FOPI), fuzzy PI controller (FPI), fuzzy fractional-order PI controller (FFOPI), and VIC based on FFOPI controller. The five controllers are tuned using particle swarm optimization (PSO) to minimize the (OF). The main contribution of this paper is the comprehensive study of the performance of interconnected AC microgrids under step load disturbances, the eventual grid following/forming contingencies, and the virtual inertia control of renewable energy resources used in the structure of the microgrids, and simulation results are recorded using the MATLAB™ platform. The voltages and frequencies of both microgrids settle with zero steady-state error following a disturbance within 0.5 s with less overshoots/undershoots (3.7e-5/-0.12e-3) using VIC. Moreover, the total power losses of two interconnected microgrids must be considered for the different controllers to identify which one provides the best optimal power flow.
Multi-omics insights into the biological mechanisms underlying statistical gene-by-lifestyle interactions with smoking and alcohol consumption
Authors: Majarian Timothy D. , Bentley Amy R. , Laville Vincent , Brown Michael R. , Chasman Daniel I. , de Vries Paul S. , Feitosa Mary F. , Franceschini Nora , Gauderman W. James , Marchek Casey , Levy Daniel , Morrison Alanna C. , Province Michael , Rao Dabeeru C. , Schwander Karen , Sung Yun Ju , Rotimi Charles N. , Aschard Hugues , Gu C. Charles , Manning Alisa K. ,   on behalf of the CHARGE Gene-Lifestyle Interactions Working Group
Published: December 2022

Though both genetic and lifestyle factors are known to influence cardiometabolic outcomes, less attention has been given to whether lifestyle exposures can alter the association between a genetic variant and these outcomes. The Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology (CHARGE) Consortium’s Gene-Lifestyle Interactions Working Group has recently published investigations of genome-wide gene-environment interactions in large multi-ancestry meta-analyses with a focus on cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption as lifestyle factors and blood pressure and serum lipids as outcomes. Further description of the biological mechanisms underlying these statistical interactions would represent a significant advance in our understanding of gene-environment interactions, yet accessing and harmonizing individual-level genetic and ‘omics data is challenging. Here, we demonstrate the coordinated use of summary-level data for gene-lifestyle interaction associations on up to 600,000 individuals, differential methylation data, and gene expression data for the characterization and prioritization of loci for future follow-up analyses. Using this approach, we identify 48 genes for which there are multiple sources of functional support for the identified gene-lifestyle interaction. We also identified five genes for which differential expression was observed by the same lifestyle factor for which a gene-lifestyle interaction was found. For instance, in gene-lifestyle interaction analysis, the T allele of rs6490056 (ALDH2) was associated with higher systolic blood pressure, and a larger effect was observed in smokers compared to non-smokers. In gene expression studies, this allele is associated with decreased expression of ALDH2, which is part of a major oxidative pathway. Other results show increased expression of ALDH2 among smokers. Oxidative stress is known to contribute to worsening blood pressure. Together these data support the hypothesis that rs6490056 reduces expression of ALDH2, which raises oxidative stress, leading to an increase in blood pressure, with a stronger effect among smokers, in whom the burden of oxidative stress is greater. Other genes for which the aggregation of data types suggest a potential mechanism include: GCNT4×current smoking (HDL), PTPRZ1×ever-smoking (HDL), SYN2×current smoking (pulse pressure), and TMEM116×ever-smoking (mean arterial pressure). This work demonstrates the utility of careful curation of summary-level data from a variety of sources to prioritize gene-lifestyle interaction loci for follow-up analyses.
Empathy and exclusion in the design process
Authors: Marsden Nicola , Wittwer Alexander
Published: December 2022

Designers are now taught that empathy with users is crucial to technology design. We offer a warning that this dictum and its implementation, despite admirable intentions, can promote exclusion in design: Empathy will not bring the desired benefit to the design process if it is naively construed and understood as a feminine trait, if shortcuts are used to allegedly take the effort out of the empathic process, or if the social situation in which empathy is taking place is not considered. We show that these issues are closely coupled in design practices. Using personas—fictitious descriptions of people used to make users visible in the design process—as an example, we argue that the danger of reifying gendered assumptions might be inherent in those methods and tools in human-computer interaction research that are supposed to enable and strengthen empathy.
IgE glycans promote anti-IgE IgG autoantibodies that facilitate IgE serum clearance via Fc Receptors
Authors: Plattner Kevin , Gharailoo Zahra , Zinkhan Simon , Engeroff Paul , Bachmann Martin F. , Vogel Monique
Published: December 2022

Background

Recent studies have shown that IgE glycosylation significantly impacts the ability of IgE to bind to its high-affinity receptor FcεRI and exert effector functions. We have recently demonstrated that immunizing mice with IgE in a complex with an allergen leads to a protective, glycan-dependent anti-IgE response. However, to what extent the glycans on IgE determine the induction of those antibodies and how they facilitate serum clearance is unclear.

Therefore, we investigated the role of glycan-specific anti-IgE IgG autoantibodies in regulating serum IgE levels and preventing systemic anaphylaxis by passive immunization.

Methods

Mice were immunized using glycosylated or deglycosylated IgE-allergen-immune complexes (ICs) to induce anti-IgE IgG antibodies. The anti-IgE IgG antibodies were purified and used for passive immunization.

Results

Glycosylated IgE-ICs induced a significantly higher anti-IgE IgG response and more IgG-secreting plasma cells than deglycosylated IgE-ICs. Passive immunization of IgE-sensitized mice with purified anti-IgE IgG increased the clearance of IgE and prevented systemic anaphylaxis upon allergen challenge. Anti-IgE IgG purified from the serum of mice immunized with deglycosylated IgE-ICs, led to a significantly reduced elimination and protection, confirming that the IgE glycans themselves are the primary drivers of the protectivity induced by the IgE-immune complexes.

Conclusion

IgE glycosylation is essential for a robust anti-IgE IgG response and might be an important regulator of serum IgE levels.
Role of metalloproteases in the CD95 signaling pathways
Authors: Devel Laurent , Guedeney Nicolas , Bregant Sarah , Chowdhury Animesh , Jean Mickael , Legembre Patrick
Published: December 2022

CD95L (also known as FasL or CD178) is a member of the tumor necrosis family (TNF) superfamily. Although this transmembrane ligand has been mainly considered as a potent apoptotic inducer in CD95 (Fas)-expressing cells, more recent studies pointed out its role in the implementation of non-apoptotic signals. Accordingly, this ligand has been associated with the aggravation of inflammation in different auto-immune disorders and in the metastatic occurrence in different cancers. Although it remains to decipher all key factors involved in the ambivalent role of this ligand, accumulating clues suggest that while the membrane bound CD95L triggers apoptosis, its soluble counterpart generated by metalloprotease-driven cleavage is responsible for its non-apoptotic functions. Nonetheless, the metalloproteases (MMPs and ADAMs) involved in the CD95L shedding, the cleavage sites and the different stoichiometries and functions of the soluble CD95L remain to be elucidated. To better understand how soluble CD95L triggers signaling pathways from apoptosis to inflammation or cell migration, we propose herein to summarize the different metalloproteases that have been described to be able to shed CD95L, their cleavage sites and the biological functions associated with the released ligands. Based on these new findings, the development of CD95/CD95L-targeting therapeutics is also discussed.
Environmental DNA: State-of-the-art of its application for fisheries assessment in marine environments
Authors: Ramírez-Amaro Sergio , Bassitta Marta , Picornell Antònia , Ramon Cori , Terrasa Bàrbara
Published: December 2022

Fisheries management involves a broad and complex set of tasks that are necessary to prevent overfishing and to help the recovery of overfished stock. Monitoring fishing activities based on two main sources, landings data and scientific surveys, is a challenging task. Fisheries collection data is often limited, which compromises the accuracy of the results obtained. Therefore, several emerging applications of molecular methods have the potential to provide unique understanding of ecological processes in marine environments and to build stronger empirical underpinnings for the Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a complex mixture of genetic material shed by those organisms that inhabit a given environment, whereby DNA is extracted from an environmental sample without accessing the target organism. eDNA studies can be categorized into two main approaches, i) eDNA metabarcoding or semi-targeted (community) approaches and ii) species-specific or targeted approaches (single). Although both categories are often discussed, they differ drastically in their methodology, interpretations and accuracy. Both approaches involve a series of steps that include eDNA capture, preservation, extraction and amplification. This detection will depend on the affinity to the targeted taxa sequences and completeness and accuracy of DNA reference collection databases. The eDNA method applied in marine environments are probably the most challenging aquatic environments for applying this technique. This is because of the extreme relationship between water-volume to biomass, dynamics and the physical and chemical properties of seawater that affect dispersion, dilution and preservation. Here, we review the present application of this novel method in fishery assessment in marine environments. To date, many studies suggest that this method offers the potential to revolutionize fisheries monitoring, which will contribute to improving the range of tasks involved in fisheries management. The compelling conclusion is that the methodological steps including in eDNA surveys should be standardized and that research efforts should focus on developing appropriately validated tests to address environmental and sampling factors that may affect eDNA detection in marine environments in order to draw reliable conclusions. This bioassessment tool can assist fisheries professionals in achieve their research, management, and conservation objectives, but not as a replacement for time-proven assessment methods.
Association between surgical tracheostomy and chronic tracheal stenosis: A retrospective, single-center study
Authors: Kuwabara Yuki , Yamakawa Kentaro , Okui Seiko , Miyazaki Erica , Uezono Shoichi
Published: December 2022

Background

Tracheal stenosis is a major complication of tracheostomy. Accordingly, anesthesiologists tend to select a smaller endotracheal tube (ETT) than usual for patients with a prior tracheostomy history, regardless of the presence or absence of respiratory symptoms. However, it likely comes from our trial and error, not scientific evidence. Therefore, in this study, we retrospectively examined the association between traditional surgical tracheostomy and tracheal stenosis as assessed by transverse computed tomography (CT).

Methods

Patients who underwent surgery for head and neck cancer from January 2010 to December 2013, with a temporary tracheostomy closed within a couple of months, were included. Exclusion criteria were tracheostoma before surgery, permanent tracheostomy, or insufficient CT follow-up. Transverse CT slices were measured 2 cm above and below the tracheostomy site (0.5 cm/slice for a total of 9 slices). The minimum cross-sectional tracheal area and horizontal and vertical diameters in transverse CT slices were compared before (baseline: BL), 6 months (6M) and 12 months (12M) after tracheostomy. Tracheal stenosis was defined as a decrease in the minimum cross-sectional tracheal area compared to BL.

Results

Of 112 patients, 77 were included. The minimum tracheal area was significantly decreased at 6M and 12M compared to BL (BL: mean 285 [SD 68] mm2, 6M: 267 [70] mm2, P < 0.01 vs. BL, 12M: 269 [68] mm2, P < 0.01 vs. BL), and the localization was predominantly at or above the tracheostomy site at 6M and 12M. Tracheal stenosis was identified in 55 patients at 6M and in 49 patients at 12M without any respiratory symptoms. With regard to horizontal and vertical diameter, only horizontal diameter was significantly decreased at 6M and 12M compared to BL (BL: 16.8 [2.4] mm, 6M: 15.4 [2.7] mm, P < 0.01 vs. BL, 12M: 15.6 [2.8] mm, P < 0.01 vs. BL).

Conclusion

Conventional surgical tracheostomy was associated with a decreased horizontal diameter of the trachea. It resulted in a decreased cross-sectional tracheal area in more than one-half of the patients; however, no patient complained of any respiratory symptoms. Therefore, even without respiratory symptoms, prior tracheostomy causes an increased risk of tracheal stenosis, and using a smaller ETT than usual could be reasonable.
Effects of Greenshell™ mussel intervention on biomarkers of cartilage metabolism, inflammatory markers and joint symptoms in overweight/obese postmenopausal women: A randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Abshirini Maryam , Coad Jane , Wolber Frances M. , von Hurst Pamela , Miller Matthew R. , Tian Hong Sabrina , Kruger Marlena C.
Published: December 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of whole greenshell mussel (GSM) powder on biomarkers of cartilage metabolism, inflammatory cytokines, and joint symptoms in postmenopausal women with overweight/obesity and joint discomfort.

Design

Fifty-five postmenopausal women with overweight/obesity were randomly assigned to receive 3 g/day whole GSM powder or placebo for 12 weeks. Cartilage turnover biomarkers urinary C-telopeptide of type II collagen (CTX-II) and serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) were measured at baseline, week 6 and 12. Plasma cytokines were measured at baseline and week 12. Joint pain and knee-related problems were assessed at baseline and week 12 using a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire, respectively.

Results

Forty-nine participants completed the study (GSM n = 25, placebo n = 24). After 12 weeks, urinary CTX-II showed no significant change over time or between the groups (interaction effect P = 0.1). However, in women with symptomatic knees, a significant difference was noted between the group (treatment effect P = 0.04), as it was lower in the GSM group compared to placebo group at week 6 (P = 0.04) and week 12 (P = 0.03). Serum COMP and plasma cytokines were not affected. GSM supplementation showed greater reduction in the VAS pain score than placebo (−13.2 ± 20.3 vs. −2.9 ± 15.9; P = 0.04). No significant change in KOOS domains between the two groups was observed.

Conclusion

Oral supplementation of whole GSM powder at 3 g/day may slow down the degradation of type II collagen in postmenopausal women with symptomatic knees. GSM treatment conferred clinical benefit on overall joint pain. No significant effect was noted for inflammatory cytokines, suggesting that GSM may act within the joint microenvironment rather than at the systemic level.

Clinical trial registration

[www.australianclinicaltrials.gov.au/clinical-trialregistries], identifier [ACTRN12620000413921p].
From fecal microbiota transplantation toward next-generation beneficial microbes: The case of Anaerobutyricum soehngenii
Authors: Wortelboer Koen , Koopen Annefleur M. , Herrema Hilde , de Vos Willem M. , Nieuwdorp Max , Kemper E. Marleen
Published: December 2022

The commensal gut microbiota is important for human health and well-being whereas deviations of the gut microbiota have been associated with a multitude of diseases. Restoration of a balanced and diverse microbiota by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as a potential treatment strategy and promising tool to study causality of the microbiota in disease pathogenesis. However, FMT comes with logistical challenges and potential safety risks, such as the transfer of pathogenic microorganisms, undesired phenotypes or an increased risk of developing disease later in life. Therefore, a more controlled, personalized mixture of cultured beneficial microbes might prove a better alternative. Most of these beneficial microbes will be endogenous commensals to the host without a long history of safe and beneficial use and are therefore commonly referred to as next-generation probiotics (NGP) or live biotherapeutic products (LBP). Following a previous FMT study within our group, the commensal butyrate producer Anaerobutyricum spp. (previously named Eubacterium hallii) was found to be associated with improved insulin-sensitivity in subjects with the metabolic syndrome. After the preclinical testing with Anaerobutyricum soehngenii in mice models was completed, the strain was produced under controlled conditions and several clinical studies evaluating its safety and efficacy in humans were performed. Here, we describe and reflect on the development of A. soehngenii for clinical use, providing practical guidance for the development and testing of NGPs and reflecting on the current regulatory framework.
Kidney injury associated with COVID-19 infection and vaccine: A narrative review
Authors: Pacheco Iago Carvalho Rezende , Costa Denise Maria do Nascimento , Sousa Deborah Serra , Salgado Filho Natalino , Silva Gyl Eanes Barros , Neves Precil Diego Miranda de Menezes
Published: December 2022

The respiratory tract is the main infection site for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), resulting in many admissions to intensive care centers in several countries. However, in addition to lung involvement, kidney injury caused by the novel coronavirus has proven to be a significant factor related to high morbidity and mortality, alarming experts worldwide. The number of deaths has drastically reduced with the advent of large-scale immunization, highlighting the importance of vaccination as the best way to combat the pandemic. Despite the undeniable efficacy of the vaccine, the renal side effects associated with its use deserve to be highlighted, especially the emergence or reactivation of glomerulopathies mentioned in some case reports. This study aimed to identify the main renal morphological findings correlated with COVID-19 infection and its vaccination, seeking to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms, main clinical features, and outcomes.
Growth and genome-based insights of Fe(III) reduction of the high-temperature and NaCl-tolerant Shewanella xiamenensis from Changqing oilfield of China
Authors: Yang Jiani , Zhao Dan , Liu Tao , Zhang Shuang , Wang Weidong , Yan Lei , Gu Ji-Dong
Published: December 2022

Introduction

A facultative anaerobe bacterium Shewanella xiamenensis CQ-Y1 was isolated from the wastewater of Changqing oilfield in Shaanxi Province of China. Shewanella is the important dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria. It exhibited a well potential application in biodegradation and bioremediation.

Methods

Genome sequencing, assembling and functional annotation were conducted to explore the genome information of CQ-Y1. The effect of temperatures and NaCl concentrations on the CQ-Y1 growth and Fe(III) reduction were investigated by UV visible spectrophotometry, SEM and XRD.

Results

Genomic analysis revealed its complete genome was a circular chromosome of 4,710,887 bp with a GC content of 46.50% and 4,110 CDSs genes, 86 tRNAs and 26 rRNAs. It contains genes encoding for Na+/H+ antiporter, K+/Cl− transporter, heat shock protein associated with NaCl and high-temperature resistance. The presence of genes related to flavin, Cytochrome c, siderophore, and other related proteins supported Fe(III) reduction. In addition, CQ-Y1 could survive at 10% NaCl (w/v) and 45°C, and temperature showed more pronounced effects than NaCl concentration on the bacterial growth. The maximum Fe(III) reduction ratio of CQ-Y1 reached 70.1% at 30°C without NaCl, and the reduction reaction remained active at 40°C with 3% NaCl (w/v). NaCl concentration was more effective than temperature on microbial Fe(III) reduction. And the reduction products under high temperature and high NaCl conditions were characterized as Fe3(PO4)2, FeCl2 and Fe(OH)2.

Discussion

Accordingly, a Fe(III) reduction mechanism of CQ-Y1 mediated by Cytochrome c and flavin was hypothesised. These findings could provide information for a better understanding of the origin and evolution of genomic and metabolic diversity of S. xiamenensis.
Localization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis topoisomerase I C-terminal sequence motif required for inhibition by endogenous toxin MazF4
Authors: Garcia Pamela K. , Martinez Borrero Rosemarie , Annamalai Thirunavukkarasu , Diaz Esnel , Balarezo Steve , Tiwari Purushottam B. , Tse-Dinh Yuk-Ching
Published: December 2022

Only about half the multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) cases are successfully cured. Thus, there is an urgent need of new TB treatment against a novel target. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) topoisomerase I (TopA) is the only type IA topoisomerase in this organism and has been validated as an essential target for TB drug discovery. Toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems participate as gene regulators within bacteria. The TA systems contribute to the long-term dormancy of Mtb within the host-cell environment. Mtb’s toxin MazF4 (Rv1495) that is part of the MazEF4 TA system has been shown to have dual activities as endoribonuclease and topoisomerase I inhibitor. We have developed a complementary assay using an Escherichia coli strain with temperature-sensitive topA mutation to provide new insights into the MazF4 action. The assay showed that E. coli is not sensitive to the endoribonuclease activity of Mtb MazF4 but became vulnerable to MazF4 growth inhibition when recombinant Mtb TopA relaxation activity is required for growth. Results from the complementation by Mtb TopA mutants with C-terminal deletions showed that the lysine-rich C-terminal tail is required for interaction with MazF4. Site-directed mutagenesis is utilized to identify two lysine residues within a conserved motif in this C-terminal tail that are critical for MazF4 inhibition. We performed molecular dynamics simulations to predict the Mtb TopA-MazF4 complex. Our simulation results show that the complex is stabilized by hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions established by residues in the TopA C-terminal tail including the two conserved lysines. The mechanism of Mtb TopA inhibition by MazF4 could be useful for the discovery of novel inhibitors against a new antibacterial target in pathogenic mycobacteria for treatment of both TB and diseases caused by the non-tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM).
Negative effects of abamectin on soil microbial communities in the short term
Authors: Qiu Danyan , Xu Nuohan , Zhang Qi , Zhou Wenya , Wang Yan , Zhang Zhenyan , Yu Yitian , Lu Tao , Sun Liwei , Zhou Ning-Yi , Peijnenburg W. J. G. M. , Qian Haifeng
Published: December 2022

With the widespread use of abamectin in agriculture, there is increasing urgency to assess the effects of abamectin on soil microorganisms. Here, we treated plant–soil microcosms with abamectin at concentrations of 0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg and quantified the impacts of abamectin on bulk and rhizosphere soil microbial communities by shotgun metagenomics after 7 and 21 days of exposure. Although abamectin was reported to be easily degradable, it altered the composition of the soil microbial communities, disrupted microbial interactions, and decreased community complexity and stability after 7 days of exposure. After treatment with abamectin at a concentration of 1.0 mg/kg, some opportunistic human diseases, and soil-borne pathogens like Ralstonia were enriched in the soil. However, most ecological functions in soil, particularly the metabolic capacities of microorganisms, recovered within 21 days after abamectin treatment. The horizontal and vertical gene transfer under abamectin treatments increased the levels of antibiotic resistance genes dissemination. Overall, our findings demonstrated the negative effects of abamectin on soil ecosystems in the short-term and highlight a possible long-term risk to public and soil ecosystem health associated with antibiotic resistance genes dissemination.
Advances, applications, and limitations of portable and rapid detection technologies for routinely encountered foodborne pathogens
Authors: Quintela Irwin A. , Vasse Tyler , Lin Chih-Sheng , Wu Vivian C. H.
Published: December 2022

Traditional foodborne pathogen detection methods are highly dependent on pre-treatment of samples and selective microbiological plating to reliably screen target microorganisms. Inherent limitations of conventional methods include longer turnaround time and high costs, use of bulky equipment, and the need for trained staff in centralized laboratory settings. Researchers have developed stable, reliable, sensitive, and selective, rapid foodborne pathogens detection assays to work around these limitations. Recent advances in rapid diagnostic technologies have shifted to on-site testing, which offers flexibility and ease-of-use, a significant improvement from traditional methods’ rigid and cumbersome steps. This comprehensive review aims to thoroughly discuss the recent advances, applications, and limitations of portable and rapid biosensors for routinely encountered foodborne pathogens. It discusses the major differences between biosensing systems based on the molecular interactions of target analytes and biorecognition agents. Though detection limits and costs still need further improvement, reviewed technologies have high potential to assist the food industry in the on-site detection of biological hazards such as foodborne pathogens and toxins to maintain safe and healthy foods. Finally, this review offers targeted recommendations for future development and commercialization of diagnostic technologies specifically for emerging and re-emerging foodborne pathogens.
Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide reduces obesity in high-fat diet-fed mice by modulation of gut microbiota
Authors: He Gang , Chen Tangcong , Huang Lifen , Zhang Yiyuan , Feng Yanjiao , Qu Shaokui , Yin Xiaojing , Liang Li , Yan Jun , Liu Wei
Published: December 2022

Obesity is a metabolic disease associated with gut microbiota and low-grade chronic inflammation. Tremella fuciformis is a medicinal and edible fungus; polysaccharide (TP) is the main active component, which has a variety of biological activities, such as hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic. However, the anti-obesity effects and potential mechanisms of TP have never been reported. This study was conducted to elucidate the inhibitory effect of TP on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in mice. Mice were split into five groups: normal chow diet (NCD) group, NCD_TP_H group, HFD group, HFD_TP_L group and HFD_TP_H group. Our study showed that TP inhibited high-fat diet-induced weight gain and fat accumulation in mice and reduced blood glucose, hyperlipidemia and inflammation. TP also improved gut microbiota disorders by reducing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and modulating the relative abundance of specific gut microbiota. We also found that the anti-obesity and gut microbiota-modulating effects of TP could be transferred to HFD-fed mice via faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), confirming that the gut microbiota was one of the targets of TP for obesity inhibition. Further studies showed that TP increased the production of short-chain fatty acids and the secretion of intestinal hormones. Our studies showed that TP inhibited obesity by modulating inflammation and the microbe-gut-brain axis, providing a rationale for developing TP to treat obesity and its complications.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG supplementation on eradication rate and dyspepsia in Helicobacter pylori infection treated with three-in-one bismuth quadruple therapy
Authors: Marinelli Paride , Scalese Giulia , Covelli Antonio , Ruffa Andrea , Bedetti Giorgio , Bruno Giovanni , Severi Carola
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Helicobacter pylori (Hp)-related dyspepsia has been related to gastroduodenal dysbiosis. The role of probiotic supplementation in the clinical management of Hp infection has been the object of several studies in terms of improvement of efficacy and tolerability of eradication treatments but data on their effects on the outcomes of post-eradication dyspepsia are lacking. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) supplementation on bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) in the clinical management of Hp-related infection both in terms of efficacy and tolerability and persistence of post-treatment dyspepsia.

Methods

A total of 164 (121 women) Hp-positive adult patients were enrolled in this pilot study and assigned to two different treatment regimens: group A received BQT for 10 days (three capsules qid, IPP bid) and group B received BQT for 10 days in combination with 6 × 109CFU LGG (ATCC53103) taken for 24 days (7 days before, 10 days during, and 7 days after therapy). Eradication was assessed after 45 days using the 13C-urea breath test (13C-UBT). Dyspepsia, distinguished into postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS), was assessed at the time of enrollment and 6 months after eradication.

Results

Approximately 98 patients were enrolled in group A and 66 patients in group B. At the enrollment, dyspepsia was present in 76.5% of group A and 86.5% of group B. No significant differences were observed in eradication rate between the 2 groups, both in intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis (82.3 vs. 75.0%) and per-protocol (PP) analysis (95 vs. 96%), and in the presence of side effects during the treatment (70.6 vs. 65.4%). At 6 months after eradication of Hp infection, the persistence of dyspepsia was statistically higher in patients of group A than in group B (38.8 vs. 16.1%; p = 0.032). The positive influence of LGG supplementation in improving post-eradication dyspepsia resulted in statistically more effectiveness in PDS dyspepsia, whose remission was 41.7% in group A and 84% in group B patients (p = 0.011).

Conclusion

In conclusion, LGG supplementation during Hp eradication therapy, even if not affecting eradication rates and therapy-related side effects, significantly impacts the remission of dyspepsia.
Identifying crosstalk genetic biomarkers linking a neurodegenerative disease, Parkinson’s disease, and periodontitis using integrated bioinformatics analyses
Authors: Hu Shaonan , Li Simin , Ning Wanchen , Huang Xiuhong , Liu Xiangqiong , Deng Yupei , Franceschi Debora , Ogbuehi Anthony Chukwunonso , Lethaus Bernd , Savkovic Vuk , Li Hanluo , Gaus Sebastian , Zimmerer Rüdiger , Ziebolz Dirk , Schmalz Gerhard , Huang Shaohong
Published: December 2022

Objective

To identify the genetic linkage mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s disease (PD) and periodontitis, and explore the role of immunology in the crosstalk between both these diseases.

Methods

The gene expression omnibus (GEO) datasets associated with whole blood tissue of PD patients and gingival tissue of periodontitis patients were obtained. Then, differential expression analysis was performed to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) deregulated in both diseases, which were defined as crosstalk genes. Inflammatory response-related genes (IRRGs) were downloaded from the MSigDB database and used for dividing case samples of both diseases into different clusters using k-means cluster analysis. Feature selection was performed using the LASSO model. Thus, the hub crosstalk genes were identified. Next, the crosstalk IRRGs were selected and Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was applied to investigate the correlation between hub crosstalk genes and hub IRRGs. Additionally, immune infiltration analysis was performed to examine the enrichment of immune cells in both diseases. The correlation between hub crosstalk genes and highly enriched immune cells was also investigated.

Results

Overall, 37 crosstalk genes were found to be overlapping between the PD-associated DEGs and periodontitis-associated DEGs. Using clustering analysis, the most optimal clustering effects were obtained for periodontitis and PD when k = 2 and k = 3, respectively. Using the LASSO feature selection, five hub crosstalk genes, namely, FMNL1, MANSC1, PLAUR, RNASE6, and TCIRG1, were identified. In periodontitis, MANSC1 was negatively correlated and the other four hub crosstalk genes (FMNL1, PLAUR, RNASE6, and TCIRG1) were positively correlated with five hub IRRGs, namely, AQP9, C5AR1, CD14, CSF3R, and PLAUR. In PD, all five hub crosstalk genes were positively correlated with all five hub IRRGs. Additionally, RNASE6 was highly correlated with myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in periodontitis, and MANSC1 was highly correlated with plasmacytoid dendritic cells in PD.

Conclusion

Five genes (i.e., FMNL1, MANSC1, PLAUR, RNASE6, and TCIRG1) were identified as crosstalk biomarkers linking PD and periodontitis. The significant correlation between these crosstalk genes and immune cells strongly suggests the involvement of immunology in linking both diseases.
Perception and knowledge of dementia prevention and its associated socio-demographic factors in China: A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Song Dan , Yu Doris , Sun Qiuhua
Published: December 2022

Background

Although considerable progress has been made on the risk factors of dementia, less is known about the extent of the gaps between the general public’s understanding of dementia prevention and contemporary scientific evidence. This study aimed to determine the beliefs and knowledge of dementia prevention among the Chinese general public and examine the socio-demographic factors of the belief and knowledge of dementia prevention.

Methods

The study adopted a cross-sectional design. A total of 358 Chinese adults aged over 40 years were recruited from four healthcare centers. We designed questionnaires that include items on the belief of dementia prevention, risk factors for dementia, and health education needs regarding dementia prevention based on previous literature. Descriptive statistics and multivariate regression analyses were conducted.

Results

Only 32.4% of the respondents agreed that dementia is preventable. Less participants were able to correctly identify cardiovascular risk factors (i.e., obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, unhealthy diet, smoking, and alcohol) as part of dementia risk factors. Younger age, higher education, and having contact with patients with dementia are associated with stronger belief that dementia is preventable. Older age, higher income, higher education, having memory complaint, and having contact with patients with dementia are associated with a better understanding of dementia risk factors. A total of 88.9% respondents thought that they are not well informed of dementia from public education, and most respondents (65%) prefer receiving dementia-related health advice from primary care providers.

Conclusion

The present study reveals the great gaps between the Chinese general public’s knowledge of dementia prevention and the latest research evidence. Public health educational programs for all age groups are encouraged to close this knowledge gap. More attention and resources should be paid to individuals with low income and low education level as they have limited access to dementia prevention information. Researchers should work in partnership with primary care providers to help translate evidence into community practice with a special focus on the link between cardiovascular risk factors and dementia.
Use of a focus group-based cognitive interview methodology to validate a cooking behavior survey among African-American adults
Authors: Farmer Nicole , Powell-Wiley Tiffany M. , Middleton Kimberly R. , Brooks Alyssa T. , Mitchell Valerie , Troncoso Melissa , Ceasar Joniqua , Claudel Sophie E. , Andrews Marcus R. , Kazmi Narjis , Johnson Allan , Wallen Gwenyth R.
Published: December 2022

Disparities in diet-related diseases persist among African-Americans despite advances in risk factor identification and evidence-based management strategies. Cooking is a dietary behavior linked to improved dietary quality and cardiometabolic health outcomes. However, epidemiologic studies suggest that African-American adults report a lower frequency of cooking at home when compared to other racial groups, despite reporting on average cooking time. To better understand cooking behavior among African-Americans and reported disparities in behavior, we sought to develop a survey instrument using focus group-based cognitive interviews, a pretesting method that provides insights into a survey respondent’s interpretation and mental processing of survey questions. A comprised survey instrument was developed based on input from a community advisory board, a literature review, and a content review by cooking behavior experts. The cognitive interview pretesting of the instrument involved African-American adults (n= 11) at risk for cardiovascular disease who were recruited from a community-based participatory research study in Washington, D.C., to participate in a focus group-based cognitive interview. Cognitive interview methodologies included the verbal think-aloud protocol and the use of retrospective probes. Thematic analysis and evaluation of verbalized cognitive processes were conducted using verbatim transcripts. Five thematic themes related to the survey were generated: (1) Clarity and relevancy of question items; (2) influence of participants’ perspectives and gender roles; (3) participant social desirability response to questions; (4) concern regarding question intent. Eleven survey items were determined as difficult by participants. Cooking topics for these items were: cooking practices, cooking skills, cooking perception (how one defines cooking), food shopping skills, and socialization around cooking. Question comprehension and interpreting response selections were the most common problems identified. Cognitive interviews are useful for cooking research as they can evaluate survey questions to determine if the meaning of the question as intended by the researcher is communicated to the respondents—specific implications from the results that apply to cooking research include revising questions on cooking practice and skills. Focus-group-based cognitive interviews may provide a feasible method to develop culturally grounded survey instruments to help understand disparities in behavior for culturally relevant diet behaviors such as cooking.
Optimization of the extraction process and metabonomics analysis of uric acid-reducing active substances from Gymnadenia R.Br. and its protective effect on hyperuricemia zebrafish
Authors: Chen Tianrong , Pubu Duoji , Zhang Wenhui , Meng Shengya , Yu Cuicui , Yin Xiaoqing , Liu Jiale , Zhang Yuhong
Published: December 2022

Background

As Gymnadenia R.Br. (Gym) has an obvious uric acid-lowering effect, but its specific bioactive substances and mechanism are still unclear. The key metabolites and pathways used by Gym to reduce uric acid (UA) were identify.

Methods

An optimized extraction process for urate-lowering active substances from Gym was firstly been carried out based on the xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibition model in vitro; then, the Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and Q-Exactive mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QE-MS) based on non-targeted metabolomics analysis of Traditional Chinese Medicine were performed for comparison of Gym with ethanol concentration of 95% (low extraction rate but high XOD inhibition rate) and 75% (high extraction rate but low XOD inhibition rate), respectively; finally, the protective effect of ethanolic extract of Gym on zebrafish with Hyperuricemia (referred to as HUA zebrafish) was explored.

Results

We found that the inhibition rate of Gym extract with 95% ethanol concentration on XOD was 84.02%, and the extraction rate was 4.32%. Interestingly, when the other conditions were the same, the XOD inhibition rate of the Gym extract with 75% ethanol concentration was 76.84%, and the extraction rate was 14.68%. A total of 539 metabolites were identified, among them, 162 different metabolites were screened, of which 123 were up-regulated and 39 were down-regulated. Besides significantly reducing the contents of UA, BUN, CRE, ROS, MDA, and XOD activity in HUA zebrafish by Gym and acutely reduce the activity of SOD.

Conclusion

Along with the flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenylpropanoids, the ethanolic extract of Gym may be related to reduce the UA level of Gym.
Case report: Adrenal myelolipoma resected by laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Feng Qingbo , Li Hancong , Chen Xinyang , Feng Xuping , Li Jiaxin
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Adrenal myelolipomas are benign tumors composed mainly of lipomatous elements with myeloid cells. With the development of medical imaging technology, the detection rate has gradually increased. We report a case of adrenal myelolipoma successfully excised through the laparoscope and reviewed existing literature in recent ten years to summarize the feasibility of the laparoscopic approach for this tumor.

Case presentation

Herein, we described a case of adrenal myelolipoma resected by laparoscope in a 63-year-old male patient. He did not have any other symptoms except the incidental finding of a left adrenal mass. An abdominal CT examination revealed a mixed-density lesion containing some amount of adipose tissue. In conjunction with the patient’s willingness, we performed a laparoscopic operation to remove the lump. The definite diagnosis was confirmed as an adrenal myelolipoma according to the pathology. The patient recovered well postoperatively and without signs of recurrence at a 5-month follow-up.

Conclusion

Adrenal myelolipoma is commonly benign, asymptomatic, and hormonal inactivity. A surgical strategy is suggested for high-complication-risk patients. The laparoscopic approach is safe and effective with an obvious advantage over open procedures.
Assessing the causality between thyroid and breast neoplasms: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Zhenqi , Xia Lu , Li Xiangzhi , He Hongyang
Published: December 2022

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the association between thyroid neoplasms (TN) and the risk of developing breast neoplasms (BN) by assessing data on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) obtained from the Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ) and Breast Cancer Association (BCAC).

Methods

Data on SNPs associated with TN and BN were obtained from DKFZ and BCAC, respectively. Secondary data analysis of all pooled data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) was performed to identify the genetic loci closely associated with TN or BN as instrumental variables (IVs). To evaluate the causal relationship between TN and BN, a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed using MR Egger regression, weighted median, inverse variance weighted (IVW) random effects model, simple mode, weighted mode, maximum likelihood, penalized weighted median, IVW radial, IVW fixed effects, and robust adjusted profile scores (RAPS) method.

Results

The MR in this study demonstrated a modest reverse causal relationship between TN and BN but a significant positive causal relationship between BN and TN.

Conclusions

The MR of this study provided genetic evidence suggesting an association between BN and TN; however, further research is warranted to explore the potential mechanism of interaction between these two malignancies. Moreover, general breast screening should be performed in individuals with TN, but TN screening should be reinforced in individuals with BN.