bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
16-year outcomes of blunt thoracic aortic injury treated with thoracic endovascular aortic repair: A single-institution experience
Authors: Rahman Tasnia , Halonen Lauri M. , Handolin Lauri , Juvonen Tatu , Jormalainen Mikko , Dahlbacka Sebastian
Published: May 2024

Background:

Blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI) is associated with considerable mortality and morbidity. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has essentially replaced open aortic repair (OAR) with superior outcome. The objective of this study was to evaluate the early and intermediate-term outcomes in patients sustaining BTAI treated with TEVAR, and to evaluate the prevalence and impact of left subclavian artery (LSA) coverage.

Methods:

This retrospective analysis includes patients undergoing TEVAR for BTAI between February 2006 and December 2022 at the Helsinki University Hospital, Finland. The primary endpoints were 30-day and 2-year mortality, technical success of stent-graft system deployment, and procedural and device-related complications. The secondary endpoints pertained to reintervention events: conversion to OAR, re-TEVAR, any endovascular/surgical reinterventions for optimal stent-graft function, or any reinterventions during follow-up.

Results:

A total of 38 consecutive BTAI patients treated with TEVAR were included in the analyses. Median patient age was 45.5 years (range, 15–79) and 66% were male. The median follow-up period was 39 months. Technical success was 100%, 30-day mortality was 0%, and 2-year mortality was 11% in the study cohort. Coverage of LSA without revascularization (13/18) resulted in one postoperative nondisabling stroke (1/13), no paraplegia, and one had ischemic left arm findings (1/13). Only one patient required reintervention (LSA embolization; 1/38).

Conclusion:

In this institutional series, we provide further evidence in favor of TEVAR for BTAI treatment. We demonstrated that TEVAR is linked to highly favorable outcomes in the short and intermediate term, and coverage of LSA without revascularization was quite well tolerated.
Adherence to Masculinity Norms and Depression Symptoms Among Israeli Men: The Moderating Role of Psychological Flexibility
Authors: Aharon Gal , Aisenberg-Shafran Daniela , Levi-Belz Yossi
Published: May 2024

Being a man has been recognized as a salient risk factor for suicide. Adopting uncompromised masculine perceptions (i.e., conforming to the masculine gender role norms) may restrict emotional expressiveness in men, which, in turn, may contribute to depression and somatization symptoms. We examined the moderating role of psychological flexibility and alexithymia in the relationship of masculinity with depression and somatization symptoms. A sample of 119 men completed measures of masculinity, alexithymia (difficulty identifying and delivering subjective feelings), psychological flexibility, depression, and somatization symptoms in a cross-sectional design study. Psychological flexibility levels moderated the relationship between masculinity and depression symptoms: Masculinity contributed as positively associated with depression symptoms when psychological flexibility was low, but no such association was found at moderate or high levels of psychological flexibility. As a cognitive factor promoting adaptive emotional regulation, psychological flexibility might reduce depression symptoms among inflexible masculine men. Clinical implications relate to diagnosing at-risk subgroups and their treatment.
Masculine Discrepancy Stress, Subjective Well-Being, and the Buffering Role of Religiosity
Authors: Upenieks Laura , McGowan Amanda C. , Hill Terrence D.
Published: May 2024

Although several studies have reported an inverse association between masculine discrepancy stress—the perceived failure to conform to internalized normative expectations of masculinity—and well-being, researchers have yet to consider the potential moderating or buffering role of religiosity. Regression analyses of data collected from a national sample of men ( n = 2,018), the 2023 Masculinity, Sexual Health, and Politics survey indicated that masculine discrepancy stress was consistently associated with lower levels of subjective well-being, including poorer self-reported mental health, less happiness, and lower life satisfaction. We also observed that these associations were attenuated or buffered among men who reported regular religious attendance and greater religious salience. Taken together, our findings suggest that different expressions of religiosity may help to alleviate the psychological consequences of masculine discrepancy stress. More research is needed to incorporate dimensions of religion and spirituality into studies of gender identity and subjective well-being.
What we ask of authenticity: How LGBQ experiences illuminate the possibilities, constraints, and expectations of being an authentic leader
Authors: O’Rourke Shannon
Published: May 2024

This essay draws on ethnographic work with minority leaders to problematize the reification of how people with privilege experience authenticity on the one hand, and the romanticization of authentic leadership on the other. Whilst the literature on authentic leadership critically engages the concept of authenticity itself, research on lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer (LGBQ) leadership offers empirical insights from the lived experiences of minority leaders. Drawing on both literatures, this essay addresses the challenge of critically engaging minority individuals’ accounts of their lived experiences relating to authentic leadership. The diverse LGBQ people in leadership roles in this UK study articulated struggles around being their “true selves” in leadership roles, as both bodies of literature suggest. Their accounts also raise concerns about how others romanticized LGBQ authenticity, creating expectations about how these minority individuals would perform authenticity for the sake of diversity, inclusion, and transformation. LGBQ leaders seem to develop a pragmatic sense about how and when they do or do not bring their sexualities into their leadership roles. In conclusion, this essay argues for an acknowledgment of how sexuality impacts the conditions for enacting authentic leadership whilst resisting the romanticism of authenticity for the sake of organization goals.
Synthesis of activated carbon from cotton plant by-products in Vietnam to remove methylene blue and congo red
Authors: Nguyen Thi Hong Hoa , Le Quoc Hao , Ngo Thi Cam Quyen , Tran Thi Tuu , Phung Chi Sy , Hoang Bich Ngoc
Published: May 2024

Activated carbon from cottonwood was synthesized by microwave-assisted method with activator NaOH. Activated carbon from cottonwood has a rough surface like coral, an amorphous structure with surface functional groups such as O–H, C–H, C=C, and C–O. The surface area and pore size were recorded at 395.48 m2 g−1 and 2.35 nm. The adsorption capacity of activated carbon from cottonwood was evaluated on two groups of anion dyes (congo red) and cation dye (methylene blue) to evaluate the influencing factors and predict the adsorption process. The best adsorption conditions were recorded for methylene blue (time: 30 min, temperature: 30 °C, pH: 10, activated carbon from cottonwood of 1 g L−1, methylene blue of 80 mg L−1, and adsorption capacity of 30.875 mg g−1) and congo red (time: 150 min, temperature: 60 °C, pH: 2, activated carbon from cottonwood of 2 g L−1, congo red of 100 mg L−1, and adsorption capacity of 45.97 mg g−1), respectively. The adsorption process was consistent with the Bangham kinetic and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) isotherm model. The process of evaluating reusability shows that activated carbon from cottonwood can be reused 4 times.
Responsiveness and validity of the Normal Hand Score in patients undergoing carpal tunnel decompression
Authors: Stirling Paul H. C. , Yapp Liam Z. , McEachan Jane E.
Published: May 2024

This study describes the measurement properties of the Normal Hand Score in patients undergoing carpal tunnel decompression (CTD). We identified 1893 episodes of CTD over a 6-year period. Paired pre- and postoperative QuickDASH, Normal Hand and satisfaction scores were available for 1006 episodes (53%; mean follow-up of 12 months). The effect size, minimum clinically important change (MCIC) and patient-acceptable symptom state (PASS) were calculated using anchor-based methodology and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analyses. Mean Normal Hand Score improved from 48 (SD 20) preoperatively to 78 (SD 24) postoperatively ( p < 0.001). The MCIC was 18 points and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85 to 0.92) demonstrating excellent fit. The PASS was 61 and the AUC was 0.94 (95% CI: 0.91 to 0.96) demonstrating outstanding fit. The Normal Hand Score has excellent performance characteristics, including appropriate responsiveness and acceptable criterion validity. This analysis supports its use as an adjunct to patient-reported outcome measures after CTD.

Level of evidence:

II
New Perspectives on the Therapeutic Potentials of Bioactive Compounds from Curcuma longa: Targeting COX-1 & 2, PDE-4B, and Antioxidant Enzymes to Counteract Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Asanga Edet Effiong , Joseph Akaninyene , Umoh EkementeAbasi Aniebo , Ekeleme Chinedum Martins , Okoroiwu Henshaw Uchechi , Edet Uwem Okon , Umoafia Nikita Elkanah , Eseyin Olorunfemi Abraham , Nkang Ani , Okokon Jude Efiom , Essang Samuel , Chimzi Glory , Okpo Daniel Nkereuwem , Ephraim Patrick Bassey , Otogwu Vivian Augustine
Published: May 2024

Background

Inflammations, oxidative stress, and pains underlie the pathogenesis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like respiratory disorders and cancer; however, they are scientifically treated with Curcuma longa. Therefore, the pharmacological screening (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic) of the plant's rhizome, isolation and characterization of its compounds, as well as their in silico profiling with cyclooxygenases, phosphodiesterase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase could yield lead compounds with better benefit-to-risk ratio against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Methods

The collection of the plant's rhizomes , extract preparation, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant studies, retrieval of target proteins, GC-MS, ADME, and docking analyses were done using standard protocols.

Results

Curcuma longa's percentage edema inhibition and analgesic potentials were better than aspirin in both acute and sub-acute inflammations as well as chemical and thermal-induced pains; moreover, its antioxidant activities were better than vitamin C. Moreover, twenty compounds with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities were unraveled from the GC-MS analysis. Ar-tumerone, curcumin, γ-sitosterol, α-tocopherol, isocurcumenol, adamantane, and curdione were the lead compounds based on their binding affinities (for PDE-4B, COX-1, COX-2, SOD, CAT, GPx), lower molecular weights, non-permeation of blood brain barrier, bioavailability profiles, non-inhibition of metabolizing enzymes, faster renal clearance, and non-violation of Lipinski's rules.

Conclusion

Adamantane, α-tocopherol, and γ-sitosterol reported for the first time in the plant's rhizome could mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation as mediators of apoptosis, cytotoxic impaired autophagy, DNA damages, and mitochondrial dysfunction that contributes to the progression of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Christian Contemplative Prayer: An Embodied Spirituality of Healing and Well-Being Through the Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Authors: Holley Kathleen M.
Published: May 2024

Within Christian spirituality, contemplative prayer practice is rooted in scriptural teachings, ancient practices, and intentional silent awareness of the Holy Spirit’s presence. Despite the growing popularity of this embodied spiritual practice, limited empirical evidence exists investigating its effects on Christian contemplative prayer practitioners. This grounded theory study explored the long-term (2 to 40+ years) lived experience of thirty-six practitioners. Findings conceptualized the property of the Ministry of the Holy Spirit as it analytically emerged from its four dimensions including: Holistic Healing, Spiritual Formation, Soul Care, and Faith. These findings help to further develop Holley’s substantive theory integrating Christian contemplative prayer, Well-being, and Embodiment, bringing greater understanding to practitioners, minsters, and scholars alike. The findings were also part of the Holy Spirit Symposium (Biola University’s 2023), which presented an integration of various aspects of the Holy Spirit’s ministry of healing within the body.
The Directive (EU) 2022/2041 on adequate minimum wages in the European Union: Much ado about nothing in Sweden?
Authors: Selberg Niklas , Sjödin Erik
Published: May 2024

The EU Directive 2022/2041 on adequate minimum wages has been welcomed by many stakeholders, but Sweden (together with Denmark), with its historically good track record regarding labour rights, is opposing it on both political and legal grounds. The Directive, the Swedish Government argues, will not fulfil its goals, and concerns, in any instance, matters that are excluded from the competence of the EU. This article describes and analyses the implementation measures in a system whose wage-setting mechanism – at least according to its own opinion – needs no support, and in which legal and political objections have been raised against the Directive.
The young and the hawkish: Generational differences in conflict attitudes in Israel
Authors: Harsgor Liran
Published: May 2024

How do generational patterns affect public opinion in prolonged conflicts? While considerable research has addressed the effects of conflicts on children and adolescents, understanding the broader generational divides in public attitudes towards conflict resolution remains an area with both theoretical and empirical gaps. Such understanding is crucial, given its potential to significantly shape aggregate public opinion and the trajectory of conflicts. This paper focuses on the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, examining how support for conflict resolution varies across Israeli–Jewish cohorts. It employs longitudinal survey data (1981–2019), using both descriptive methods and age-period-cohort (APC) regression models. The findings indicate that generational differences in public opinion were relatively small until the early 2000s. Post this period, younger Israelis have increasingly displayed more hawkish attitudes than older generations, coupled with a stronger inclination towards right-wing identification. These trends pose important questions about the changing nature of support for compromise within Israeli society and its implications for the future of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. The factors driving these emerging generational gaps are complex and merit in-depth exploration. While this article touches upon potential explanations, including demographic shifts and hope for peace, they do not entirely clarify the observed generational differences, highlighting the need for further research.
Exploring the impact of computer game playing on cognitive function, Alzheimer's disease risk, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels: Basic evidence from Mendelian randomization
Authors: Wu Jinlong , Mao Zhenwei , Ren Zhanbing , Zang Wanli , Tian Haodong , Huang Li , Liu Haowei , Liu Feiyang , Peng Li
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The potential positive impact of computer game playing on cognitive function and its potential role in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been suggested. However, current observational studies have certain limitations. We utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) alongside extensive genome-wide association study (GWAS) data to examine the relationship between computer game playing, cognitive function, risk of AD, and levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

Methods

We collected datasets on computer game playing, cognition function, risk of AD, and BDNF level from the IEU Open GWAS project. Causal effects were assessed using various MR methods, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode. To ensure the accuracy of the results, sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results

Our analysis revealed a significant association between computer game playing and cognitive function ( β  =  0.801, 95% CI: 0.351, 1.328, P  =  0.001). There was no statistically significant association between computer game playing and either BDNF level or risk of AD ( β  =  −0.112, 95%CI: −1.315, 1.091, P  =  0.855; OR = 1.000, 95% CI: 1.004, 0.997, P  =  0.891, respectively). We further confirmed the reliability of our evidence through the MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO global test, Cochran's Q test, and funnel plots.

Conclusion

The results of our study indicate that engaging in computer game playing may confer a safeguarding influence on cognitive function. This underscores the potential advantages associated with computer gaming. Nevertheless, given the constraints inherent in our research, further investigation is warranted to substantiate our findings and delve into the underlying mechanisms.
Comparative effectiveness of dimethyl fumarate versus non-specific immunosuppressants: Real-world evidence from MSBase
Authors: Spelman Tim , Eichau Sara , Alroughani Raed , Ozakbas Serkan , Khoury Samia J , Patti Francesco , Kubala Havrdova Eva , Boz Cavit , Terzi Murat , Kuhle Jens , Grammond Pierre , Lechner-Scott Jeanette , Gray Orla , Amato Maria Pia , Laureys Guy , Shaygannejad Vahid , Hyde Robert , Wang Haijue , Bozin Ivan , Belviso Nicholas , Quan Chao , Zeng Feng , van der Walt Anneke , Butzkueven Helmut ,   the MSBase Study Group
Published: May 2024

Background

The use of non-specific immunosuppressants (NSIS) to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) remains prevalent in certain geographies despite safety concerns, likely due to resource limitations.

Objective

To use MSBase registry data to compare real-world outcomes in adults with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) treated with dimethyl fumarate (DMF) or NSIS (azathioprine, cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, mitoxantrone or mycophenolate mofetil) between January 1, 2014 and April 1, 2022.

Methods

Treatment outcomes were compared using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) Cox regression. Outcomes were annualized relapse rates (ARRs), time to discontinuation, time to first relapse (TTFR) and time to 24-week confirmed disability progression (CDP) or 24-week confirmed disability improvement (CDI; in patients with baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] score ≥2).

Results

After IPTW, ARR was similar for DMF (0.13) and NSIS (0.16; p = 0.29). There was no difference in TTFR between cohorts (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.98; p = 0.84). The DMF cohort experienced longer times to discontinuation (HR: 0.75; p = 0.001) and CDP (HR: 0.53; p = 0.001), and shorter time to CDI (HR: 1.99; p < 0.008), versus the NSIS cohort.

Conclusion

This analysis supports the use of DMF to treat patients with relapsing forms of MS, and may have implications for MS practices in countries where NSIS are commonly used to treat RRMS.
Personality and Resilience in a Jarring Time: Self-Compassion and Hope before and During COVID Disruptions
Authors: Booker Jordan A. , Johnson Chloe L.
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a widespread and persistent stressor for emerging adults. Personality differences could inform resilience in the face of this pandemic. Using data from multiple college adult samples measured before and during impacts of COVID, we addressed how differences in hope and self-compassion (a) were related to well-being and mental health; (b) could differ given timing of COVID impacts, and (c) showed interactions with COVID timing. Both self-compassion and hope were broadly related with well-being and mental health concerns. Students endorsed lower hope once COVID was impacting daily life. COVID timing moderated the relations of self-compassion with well-being and mental health concerns. Self-compassion showed stronger positive relations with flourishing and thriving during COVID impacts, as well as stronger negative relations with depressive symptoms as students returned to in-person activities during COVID. Findings reinforce the importance of individual differences for resilience with real-world, chronic stressors for emerging adults.
Can Unmet Needs Be Addressed by Adjunctive Therapies? Findings from a Patient Perspectives Survey in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Lamaro Bella D. , Greenfield Jerry R. , Snaith Jennifer R.
Published: May 2024

Many individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) do not achieve their management goals. The patient perspective on unmet needs in T1D may guide the role of adjunctive therapies, including glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs). A quantitative online survey (n = 133) assessed (1) self-reported demographic and management data, (2) management priorities, satisfaction, and willingness to use adjunctive therapies and (3) conducted a risk-benefit analysis using three masked drug profiles (1.8 mg vs 0.6 mg liraglutide vs placebo). A subgroup of respondents (n = 20) participated in semi-structured interviews to extend upon survey insights. Needs were unmet by current treatment in 28% of surveyed individuals. The greatest unmet needs included (1) glycemia, (2) management-related fatigue, and (3) weight management. Most respondents (94%) indicated that they would use adjunctive therapies. The preferred administration route was daily tablets (66%) followed by weekly injections (32%). Metabolic improvements were most valued (reduction in hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia). Most respondents (94%) preferred the liraglutide risk-benefit profile (1.8 mg, then 0.6 mg) over placebo. Individuals with T1D self-report many unmet needs. While not currently approved in T1D, GLP-1RA properties align with many management priorities reported by individuals with T1D.
Seborrheic Keratosis: Report of a Rare Presentation and Reminder of the Current Knowledge of the Problem
Authors: Lahbacha Bahaeddine , Nechi Salwa , Chaabane Abir , Bani Amina , Kchaou Majdi , Chtourou Fadhel , Mfarrej Mohamed Karim , Douggaz Amel , Chelbi Emna
Published: May 2024

A 75-year-old man presented with an abdominal enlarging painless tumor of the skin evolving over the last 30 years. His past medical history was unremarkable. Physical examination revealed a brownish pedunculated cutaneous mass which had an irregular keratotic warty surface with no discharge or ulceration. The mass was clinically presumed to be a melanocytic tumor, or a verrucous carcinoma. A monoblock excision of the mass was performed with a good outcome. The specimen was then sent to our pathology department to rule out malignancy. Macroscopic examination revealed a brownish tumor of 7.5 × 7 × 1.5 cm which had fissures and cauliflower-like appearance. Final histological report concluded to a giant seborrheic keratosis.
Nexus between infrastructural development and economic growth: Evidence from Bangladesh through auto-regressive distributive lag and nonlinear auto regressive distributive lag analysis
Authors: Chowdhury Munem Ahmad , Khan M. Zakir Saadullah
Published: May 2024

This study aims to scrutinize the influence of infrastructure on the economic growth of Bangladesh, employing an extensive time series analysis spanning from 1973 to 2020. Utilizing Principle Component Analysis, two distinct indices were constructed to gauge the dimensions of economic and social infrastructure. Subsequently, Auto-Regressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) and Nonlinear Auto Regressive Distributive Lag (NARDL) bound tests were employed to assess the existence of long-run relationships among the variables under examination. The findings indicate a significant and positive contribution of economic infrastructure to both long and short-term production expansion. Upon further disaggregation into negative and positive shocks, consistent results emerge. An increase (decrease) in the economic infrastructure (EI) index by one unit corresponds to an upsurge (subside) of 0.16% (0.17%) in economic growth. In contrast, social infrastructure (SI) exhibits no significant long-run association with GDP growth. The discerned pattern suggests that EI play a pivotal role in driving aggregate output, while SI display a lag. Despite this, it is imperative to underscore the importance of SI for human development. Consequently, adopting a comprehensive and strategic approach, encompassing vision, ensuring quality inclusivity, and anti-corruption measures, is imperative for Bangladesh to fully realize the transformative potential of its infrastructure investments and foster sustained economic growth.
Revisiting Project Delivery Performance: Evidence from Swedish Transport Infrastructure
Authors: Chapman Paul
Published: May 2024

This study of Swedish road and rail project performance challenges understanding of project success and presents findings that run counter to the widely held position that transport infrastructure delivery performance and outcomes are persistently poor. Both road and rail investments proved economically profitable and were typically delivered to budget, evidence that questions theory claiming optimism bias and malicious agency dynamics such as strategic misrepresentation are endemic in decision-making during planning and persistently cause poor project performance. Summary findings on the performance of Swedish transport infrastructure projects are: 93% of road projects achieved intended benefits, 86% returned positive net present value, and cost overrun was typically 2.7%. Road projects typically achieve a net present value of 1.6 against an estimate of 0.6. 70% of rail projects achieved intended benefits, 63% returned positive net present value, and typical cost performance was -1.8% underrun. This contribution opens new avenues for research by scholars to explain this apparent success and why some projects, even in Sweden, fail.
Spatial transcriptomic brain imaging reveals the effects of immunomodulation therapy on specific regional brain cells in a mouse dementia model
Authors: Lee Eun Ji , Suh Minseok , Choi Hongyoon , Choi Yoori , Hwang Do Won , Bae Sungwoo , Lee Dong Soo
Published: May 2024

Increasing evidence of brain-immune crosstalk raises expectations for the efficacy of novel immunotherapies in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but the lack of methods to examine brain tissues makes it difficult to evaluate therapeutics. Here, we investigated the changes in spatial transcriptomic signatures and brain cell types using the 10x Genomics Visium platform in immune-modulated AD models after various treatments. To proceed with an analysis suitable for barcode-based spatial transcriptomics, we first organized a workflow for segmentation of neuroanatomical regions, establishment of appropriate gene combinations, and comprehensive review of altered brain cell signatures. Ultimately, we investigated spatial transcriptomic changes following administration of immunomodulators, NK cell supplements and an anti-CD4 antibody, which ameliorated behavior impairment, and designated brain cells and regions showing probable associations with behavior changes. We provided the customized analytic pipeline into an application named STquantool. Thus, we anticipate that our approach can help researchers interpret the real action of drug candidates by simultaneously investigating the dynamics of all transcripts for the development of novel AD therapeutics.
Uncovering the lignin-degrading potential of Serratia quinivorans AORB19: insights from genomic analyses and alkaline lignin degradation
Authors: Ali Nadia Sufdar , Thakur Subarna , Ye Mengwei , Monteil-Rivera Fanny , Pan Youlian , Qin Wensheng , Yang Trent Chunzhong
Published: May 2024

Background

Lignin is an intricate phenolic polymer found in plant cell walls that has tremendous potential for being converted into value-added products with the possibility of significantly increasing the economics of bio-refineries. Although lignin in nature is bio-degradable, its biocatalytic conversion is challenging due to its stable complex structure and recalcitrance. In this context, an understanding of strain's genomics, enzymes, and degradation pathways can provide a solution for breaking down lignin to unlock the full potential of lignin as a dominant valuable bioresource. A gammaproteobacterial strain AORB19 has been isolated previously from decomposed wood based on its high laccase production. This work then focused on the detailed genomic and functional characterization of this strain based on whole genome sequencing, the identification of lignin degradation products, and the strain’s laccase production capabilities on various agro-industrial residues.

Results

Lignin degrading bacterial strain AORB19 was identified as Serratia quinivorans based on whole genome sequencing and core genome phylogeny. The strain comprised a total of 123 annotated CAZyme genes, including ten cellulases, four hemicellulases, five predicted carbohydrate esterase genes, and eight lignin-degrading enzyme genes. Strain AORB19 was also found to possess genes associated with metabolic pathways such as the β-ketoadipate, gentisate, anthranilate, homogentisic, and phenylacetate CoA pathways. LC–UV analysis demonstrated the presence of p-hydroxybenzaldehyde and vanillin in the culture media which constitutes potent biosignatures indicating the strain’s capability to degrade lignin. Finally, the study evaluated the laccase production of Serratia AORB19 grown with various industrial raw materials, with the highest activity detected on flax seed meal (257.71 U/L), followed by pea hull (230.11 U/L), canola meal (209.56 U/L), okara (187.67 U/L), and barley malt sprouts (169.27 U/L).

Conclusions

The whole genome analysis of Serratia quinivorans AORB19, elucidated a repertoire of genes, pathways and enzymes vital for lignin degradation that widens the understanding of ligninolytic metabolism among bacterial lignin degraders. The LC-UV analysis of the lignin degradation products coupled with the ability of S. quinivorans AORB19 to produce laccase on diverse agro-industrial residues underscores its versatility and its potential to contribute to the economic viability of bio-refineries.
Progression of swine fecal microbiota during early stages of life and its association with performance: a longitudinal study
Authors: Arsenault Maddison , Lillie Brandon , Nadeem Khurram , Khafipour Ehsan , Farzan Abdolvahab
Published: May 2024

Background

It is vital to understand healthy gut microbiota composition throughout early life stages when environments are changing, and immunity is developing. There are limited large-scale longitudinal studies classifying healthy succession of swine microbiota. The objectives of this study were to (a) determine the microbiota composition of fecal samples collected from piglets within a few days after birth until one-week post-weaning, and (b) investigate the associations of early fecal microbiota with pig growth performance in nursery and later growing stages. Fecal samples were collected from nine cohorts of 40 pigs (n = 360) from distinct farrowing sources in Ontario and Quebec, Canada at four timepoints from birth to one-week post-weaning, with pig body weight was recorded at each fecal sampling.

Results

Microbiota was dominated by the phyla Firmicutes, Bacteroides and Proteobacteria. There were notable differences in genera abundance between pigs from different provinces and farming systems. Over the early life stage, the genera Bacteroides, Escherichia/Shigella, and Clostridium cluster XIVa were abundant preweaning, while Prevotella dominated post-weaning. Hierarchical clustering identified three major stages of microbiota development, each associated with distinct composition. Stage one occurs from birth to 7 days, stage two from 7 days after birth until weaning, and stage three from weaning to one-week post-weaning. Three enterotypes were identified in stage two that showed differences in growth before weaning, and in the grower production stage. Piglets with a microbiota enterotype characterized by higher abundance of Prevotella and unclassified Ruminococcaceae had lower growth performance in the pre-weaning stage, and the growing stage.

Conclusion

These findings help identify the timing of microbiota shifts across early swine life which may be the optimal time for external intervention to shift the microbiota to a beneficial state. The project findings should help decrease antimicrobial use, increase animal welfare, and have positive economic impacts.
Identification of carbohydrate gene clusters obtained from in vitro fermentations as predictive biomarkers of prebiotic responses
Authors: Kok Car Reen , Rose Devin J. , Cui Juan , Whisenhunt Lisa , Hutkins Robert
Published: May 2024

Background

Prebiotic fibers are non-digestible substrates that modulate the gut microbiome by promoting expansion of microbes having the genetic and physiological potential to utilize those molecules. Although several prebiotic substrates have been consistently shown to provide health benefits in human clinical trials, responder and non-responder phenotypes are often reported. These observations had led to interest in identifying, a priori, prebiotic responders and non-responders as a basis for personalized nutrition. In this study, we conducted in vitro fecal enrichments and applied shotgun metagenomics and machine learning tools to identify microbial gene signatures from adult subjects that could be used to predict prebiotic responders and non-responders.

Results

Using short chain fatty acids as a targeted response, we identified genetic features, consisting of carbohydrate active enzymes, transcription factors and sugar transporters, from metagenomic sequencing of in vitro fermentations for three prebiotic substrates: xylooligosacharides, fructooligosacharides, and inulin. A machine learning approach was then used to select substrate-specific gene signatures as predictive features. These features were found to be predictive for XOS responders with respect to SCFA production in an in vivo trial.

Conclusions

Our results confirm the bifidogenic effect of commonly used prebiotic substrates along with inter-individual microbial responses towards these substrates. We successfully trained classifiers for the prediction of prebiotic responders towards XOS and inulin with robust accuracy (≥ AUC 0.9) and demonstrated its utility in a human feeding trial. Overall, the findings from this study highlight the practical implementation of pre-intervention targeted profiling of individual microbiomes to stratify responders and non-responders.
Automated glioblastoma patient classification using hypoxia levels measured through magnetic resonance images
Authors: Shahram Mohammad Amin , Azimian Hosein , Abbasi Bita , Ganji Zohreh , Khadem-Reza Zahra Khandan , Khakshour Elham , Zare Hoda
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The challenge of treating Glioblastoma (GBM) tumors is due to various mechanisms that make the tumor resistant to radiation therapy. One of these mechanisms is hypoxia, and therefore, determining the level of hypoxia can improve treatment planning and initial evaluation of its effectiveness in GBM. This study aimed to design an intelligent system to classify glioblastoma patients based on hypoxia levels obtained from magnetic resonance images with the help of an artificial neural network (ANN).

Material and method

MR images and PET measurements were available for this study. MR images were downloaded from the Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) database to classify glioblastoma patients based on hypoxia. The images in this database were prepared from 27 patients with glioblastoma on T1W + Gd, T2W-FLAIR, and T2W. Our designed algorithm includes various parts of pre-processing, tumor segmentation, feature extraction from images, and matching these features with quantitative parameters related to hypoxia in PET images. The system’s performance is evaluated by categorizing glioblastoma patients based on hypoxia.

Results

The results of classification with the artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm were as follows: the highest sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were obtained at 86.71, 85.99 and 83.17%, respectively. The best specificity was related to the T2W-EDEMA image with the tumor to blood ratio (TBR) as a hypoxia parameter. T1W-NECROSIS image with the TBR parameter also showed the highest sensitivity and accuracy.

Conclusion

The results of the present study can be used in clinical procedures before treating glioblastoma patients. Among these treatment approaches, we can mention the radiotherapy treatment design and the prescription of effective drugs for the treatment of hypoxic tumors.
Phylogenetic placement of the monotypic Baolia (Amaranthaceae s.l.) based on morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: Liu Shuai , Veranso-Libalah Marie Claire , Sukhorukov Alexander P. , Sun Xuegang , Nilova Maya V. , Kushunina Maria , Mamut Jannathan , Wen Zhibin
Published: May 2024

Background

Baolia H.W.Kung & G.L.Chu is a monotypic genus only known in Diebu County, Gansu Province, China. Its systematic position is contradictory, and its morphoanatomical characters deviate from all other Chenopodiaceae. Recent study has regarded Baolia as a sister group to Corispermoideae. We therefore sequenced and compared the chloroplast genomes of this species, and resolved its phylogenetic position based on both chloroplast genomes and marker sequences.

Results

We sequenced 18 chloroplast genomes of 16 samples from two populations of Baolia bracteata and two Corispermum species. These genomes of Baolia ranged in size from 152,499 to 152,508 bp. Simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were primarily located in the LSC region of Baolia chloroplast genomes, and most of them consisted of single nucleotide A/T repeat sequences. Notably, there were differences in the types and numbers of SSRs between the two populations of B. bracteata. Our phylogenetic analysis, based on both complete chloroplast genomes from 33 species and a combination of three markers (ITS, rbcL, and matK) from 91 species, revealed that Baolia and Corispermoideae (Agriophyllum, Anthochlamys, and Corispermum) form a well-supported clade and sister to Acroglochin. According to our molecular dating results, a major divergence event between Acroglochin, Baolia, and Corispermeae occurred during the Middle Eocene, approximately 44.49 mya. Ancestral state reconstruction analysis showed that Baolia exhibited symplesiomorphies with those found in core Corispermoideae characteristics including pericarp and seed coat.

Conclusions

Comparing the chloroplast genomes of B. bracteata with those of eleven typical Chenopodioideae and Corispermoideae species, we observed a high overall similarity and a one notable noteworthy case of inversion of approximately 3,100 bp. of DNA segments only in two Atriplex and four Chenopodium species. We suggest that Corispermoideae should be considered in a broader sense, it includes Corispermeae (core Corispermoideae: Agriophyllum, Anthochlamys, and Corispermum), as well as two new monotypic tribes, Acroglochineae (Acroglochin) and Baolieae (Baolia).
Physician perspectives of the community paramedicine at clinic (CP@clinic) and my care plan app (myCP app) for older adults
Authors: Sadri Pauneez , Keenan Amelia , Angeles Ricardo , Marzanek Francine , Pirrie Melissa , Agarwal Gina
Published: May 2024

Background

Community Paramedicine (CP) is an emerging model of care addressing health problems through non-emergency services. Little evidence exists examining the integration of an app for improved patient, CP, and family physician (FP) communication. This study investigated FP perspectives on the impact of the Community Paramedicine at Clinic (CP@clinic) program on providing patient care and the feasibility and value of a novel “My Care Plan App” (myCP app).

Methods

This retrospective mixed-methods study included an online survey and phone interviews to elucidate FPs ' perspectives on the CP@clinic program and the myCP app, respectively, between January 2021 and May 2021. FPs with patients in the CP@clinic program were recruited to participate. Survey responses were summarized using descriptive statistics, and audio recordings from the interviews thematically analyzed.

Results

Thirty-eight FPs completed the survey and 10 FPs completed the phone interviews. 60.5% and 52.6% of FPs reported that the CP@clinic program improved their ability to further screen and diagnose patients for hypertension, respectively (in addition to their regular screening practices). The themes that emerged in the phone interviews were grouped into three topics: app benefits, drawbacks, and integration within practice. Overall, FPs described the myCP app as user-friendly and useful to improve interprofessional communication with CPs.

Conclusions

CP@clinic helped family physicians to screen and monitor chronic disease. The myCP app can impact health service delivery by closing the gap between primary, community, and emergency care through an eHealth information-sharing platform.
Prognostic significance of chronic kidney disease and impaired renal function in Japanese patients with COVID-19
Authors: Tanaka Hiromu , Chubachi Shotaro , Asakura Takanori , Namkoong Ho , Azekawa Shuhei , Otake Shiro , Nakagawara Kensuke , Fukushima Takahiro , Lee Ho , Watase Mayuko , Sakurai Kaori , Kusumoto Tatsuya , Masaki Katsunori , Kamata Hirofumi , Ishii Makoto , Hasegawa Naoki , Okada Yukinori , Koike Ryuji , Kitagawa Yuko , Kimura Akinori , Imoto Seiya , Miyano Satoru , Ogawa Seishi , Kanai Takanori , Fukunaga Koichi
Published: May 2024

Background

Renal impairment is a predictor of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) severity. No studies have compared COVID-19 outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and patients with impaired renal function without a prior diagnosis of CKD. This study aimed to identify the impact of pre-existing impaired renal function without CKD on COVID-19 outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective study included 3,637 patients with COVID-19 classified into three groups by CKD history and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) on referral: Group 1 (n = 2,460), normal renal function without a CKD history; Group 2 (n = 905), impaired renal function without a CKD history; and Group 3 (n = 272), history of CKD. We compared the clinical characteristics of these groups and assessed the effect of CKD and impaired renal function on critical outcomes (requirement for respiratory support with high-flow oxygen devices, invasive mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygen, and death during hospitalization) using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease) and incidence of inflammatory responses (white blood counts, and C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and D-dimer levels) and complications (bacterial infection and heart failure) were higher in Groups 2 and 3 than that in Group 1. The incidence of critical outcomes was 10.8%, 17.7%, and 26.8% in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The mortality rate and the rate of requiring IMV support was lowest in Group 1 and highest in Group 3. Compared with Group 1, the risk of critical outcomes was higher in Group 2 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.70, P = 0.030) and Group 3 (aOR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.36–2.78, P < 0.001). Additionally, the eGFR was significantly associated with critical outcomes in Groups 2 (odds ratio [OR]: 2.89, 95% CI: 1.64–4.98, P < 0.001) and 3 (OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.08–3.23, P = 0.025) only.

Conclusions

Clinicians should consider pre-existing CKD and impaired renal function at the time of COVID-19 diagnosis for the management of COVID-19.
VER-Net: a hybrid transfer learning model for lung cancer detection using CT scan images
Authors: Saha Anindita , Ganie Shahid Mohammad , Pramanik Pijush Kanti Dutta , Yadav Rakesh Kumar , Mallik Saurav , Zhao Zhongming
Published: May 2024

Background

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, with over two million new cases per year. Early identification would allow healthcare practitioners to handle it more effectively. The advancement of computer-aided detection systems significantly impacted clinical analysis and decision-making on human disease. Towards this, machine learning and deep learning techniques are successfully being applied. Due to several advantages, transfer learning has become popular for disease detection based on image data.

Methods

In this work, we build a novel transfer learning model (VER-Net) by stacking three different transfer learning models to detect lung cancer using lung CT scan images. The model is trained to map the CT scan images with four lung cancer classes. Various measures, such as image preprocessing, data augmentation, and hyperparameter tuning, are taken to improve the efficacy of VER-Net. All the models are trained and evaluated using multiclass classifications chest CT images.

Results

The experimental results confirm that VER-Net outperformed the other eight transfer learning models compared with. VER-Net scored 91%, 92%, 91%, and 91.3% when tested for accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, respectively. Compared to the state-of-the-art, VER-Net has better accuracy.

Conclusion

VER-Net is not only effectively used for lung cancer detection but may also be useful for other diseases for which CT scan images are available.