bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iodate respiration by Azoarcus sp. DN11 and its potential use for removal of radioiodine from contaminated aquifers
Authors: Sasamura Seiya , Ohnuki Toshihiko , Kozai Naofumi , Amachi Seigo
Published: April 2023

Azoarcus sp. DN11 was previously isolated from gasoline-contaminated groundwater as an anaerobic benzene-degrading bacterium. Genome analysis of strain DN11 revealed that it contained a putative idr gene cluster (idrABP1P2), which was recently found to be involved in bacterial iodate (IO3−) respiration. In this study, we determined if strain DN11 performed iodate respiration and assessed its potential use to remove and sequester radioactive iodine (129I) from subsurface contaminated aquifers. Strain DN11 coupled acetate oxidation to iodate reduction and grew anaerobically with iodate as the sole electron acceptor. The respiratory iodate reductase (Idr) activity of strain DN11 was visualized on non-denaturing gel electrophoresis, and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analysis of the active band suggested the involvement of IdrA, IdrP1, and IdrP2 in iodate respiration. The transcriptomic analysis also showed that idrA, idrP1, and idrP2 expression was upregulated under iodate-respiring conditions. After the growth of strain DN11 on iodate, silver-impregnated zeolite was added to the spent medium to remove iodide from the aqueous phase. In the presence of 200 μM iodate as the electron acceptor, more than 98% of iodine was successfully removed from the aqueous phase. These results suggest that strain DN11 is potentially helpful for bioaugmentation of 129I-contaminated subsurface aquifers.
Structural studies of the nucleus-like assembly of jumbo bacteriophage 201φ2-1
Authors: Liu Zhe , Xiang Ye
Published: April 2023

The jumbo phages encode proteins that assemble to form a nucleus-like compartment in infected cells. Here we report the cryo-EM structure and biochemistry characterization of gp105, a protein that is encoded by the jumbo phage 201φ2-1 and is involved in the formation of the nucleus-like compartment in phage 201φ2-1 infected Pseudomonas chlororaphis. We found that, although most gp105 molecules are in the monomeric state in solution, a small portion of gp105 assemble to form large sheet-like assemblies and small cube-like particles. Reconstruction of the cube-like particles showed that the particle consists of six flat head-to-tail tetramers arranged into an octahedral cube. The four molecules at the contact interface of two head-to-tail tetramers are 2-fold symmetry-related and constitute a concave tetramer. Further reconstructions without applying symmetry showed that molecules in the particles around the distal ends of a 3-fold axis are highly dynamic and have the tendency to open up the assembly. Local classifications and refinements of the concave tetramers in the cube-like particle resulted in a map of the concave tetramer at a resolution of 4.09 Å. Structural analysis of the concave tetramer indicates that the N and C terminal fragments of gp105 are important for mediating the intermolecular interactions, which was further confirmed by mutagenesis studies. Biochemistry assays showed that, in solution, the cube-like particles of gp105 are liable to either disassemble to form the monomers or recruit more molecules to form the high molecular weight lattice-like assembly. We also found that monomeric gp105s can self-assemble to form large sheet-like assemblies in vitro, and the assembly of gp105 in vitro is a reversible dynamic process and temperature-dependent. Taken together, our results revealed the dynamic assembly of gp105, which helps to understand the development and function of the nucleus-like compartment assembled by phage-encoded proteins.
Trimethyl-Chitosan Coated Gold Nanoparticles Enhance Delivery, Cellular Uptake and Gene Silencing Effect of EGFR-siRNA in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Baghani Leila , Noroozi Heris Niloofar , Khonsari Fatemeh , Dinarvand Sajad , Dinarvand Meshkat , Atyabi Fatemeh
Published: April 2023

Purpose: Despite the promising therapeutic effects of gene silencing with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), the challenges associated with delivery of siRNAs to the tumor cells in vivo, has greatly limited its clinical application. To overcome these challenges, we employed gold nanoparticles modified with trimethyl chitosan (TMC) as an effective delivery carrier to improve the stability and cellular uptake of siRNAs against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) that is implicated in breast cancer.

Methods: AuNPs were prepared by the simple aqueous reduction of chloroauric acid (HAuCl4) with ascorbic acid and coated with synthesized TMC. EGFR-siRNA was then complexed with the AuNPs-TMC via electrostatic interaction to make AuNPs-TMC/EGFR-siRNA with a w/w ratio of 10:1. Nanoparticles were assessed for physicochemical characteristics and in vitro cellular behavior on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line.

Results: Spherical and positively charged AuNPs-TMC (67 nm, +45 mV) were successfully complexed with EGFR-siRNA (82 nm, +11 mV) which were able to retard the gene migration completely. Confocal microscopy and flow cytometry analysis demonstrated complete cellular uptake of Cy5 labeled AuNPs-TMC in the MCF-7 cells after 4 h incubation. MTT test after 48 h incubation showed that the AuNPs-TMC were safe but when combined with EGFR-siRNA exert significant cytotoxicity while the cell viability was about 50%. These nanocomplexes also showed a high gene expression knockdown (86%) of EGFR and also a high apoptosis rate (Q2 + Q3 = 18.5%) after 24 h incubation.

Conclusion: This study suggests that the simply synthesized AuNPs-TMC are novel, effective, and promising nanocarriers for siRNA delivery, and AuNPs-TMC/EGFR-siRNA appears to be a potential therapeutic agent for breast cancer treatment.
(A)symmetry during gait initiation in people with Parkinson’s disease: A motor and cortical activity exploratory study
Authors: Faria Murilo Henrique , Simieli Lucas , Rietdyk Shirley , Penedo Tiago , Santinelli Felipe Balistieri , Barbieri Fabio Augusto
Published: April 2023

Background

Gait asymmetry and deficits in gait initiation (GI) are among the most disabling symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD). Understanding if PwPD with reduced asymmetry during GI have higher asymmetry in cortical activity may provide support for an adaptive mechanism to improve GI, particularly in the presence of an obstacle.

Objective

This study quantified the asymmetry of anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs), stepping parameters and cortical activity during GI, and tested if the presence of an obstacle regulates asymmetry in PwPD.

Methods

Sixteen PwPD and 16 control group (CG) performed 20-trials in two conditions: unobstructed and obstructed GI with right and left limbs. We measured, through symmetry index, (i) motor parameters: APAs and stepping, and (ii) cortical activity: the PSD of the frontal, sensorimotor and occipital areas during APA, STEP-I (moment of heel-off of the leading foot in the GI until the heel contact of the same foot); and STEP-II (moment of the heel-off of the trailing foot in the GI until the heel contact of the same foot) phases.

Results

Parkinson’s disease showed higher asymmetry in cortical activity during APA, STEP-I and STEP-II phases and step velocity (STEP-II phase) during unobstructed GI than CG. However, unexpectedly, PwPD reduced the level of asymmetry of anterior–posterior displacement (p < 0.01) and medial-lateral velocity (p < 0.05) of the APAs. Also, when an obstacle was in place, PwPD showed higher APAs asymmetry (medial-lateral velocity: p < 0.002), with reduced and increased asymmetry of the cortical activity during APA and STEP-I phases, respectively.

Conclusion

Parkinson’s disease were not motor asymmetric during GI, indicating that higher cortical activity asymmetry can be interpreted as an adaptive behavior to reduce motor asymmetry. In addition, the presence of obstacle did not regulate motor asymmetry during GI in PwPD.
Waist-to-calf circumstance ratio and cognitive function among Chinese older adults: Mediating roles of physical performance and social activity
Authors: Cao Xia , Yang Binfang , Zhou Jiansong
Published: April 2023

Background

In light of the potentially detrimental effects of central fat and decreased muscle mass on cognitive function, it would be beneficial to learn more about the mediating mechanisms underpinning the association between the two. The purpose of this study is to determine the association between waist-to-calf circumstance ratio (WCR) and cognitive function, as well as to investigate whether physical performance and social activity mediate the relationship between WCR and cognitive function among older Chinese adults.

Methods

An analysis of 9,652 older Chinese adults was conducted during the 2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Health Longevity Survey (CLHLS). The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and a self-reported scale were used to measure cognitive function, physical performance, and social activity, respectively. Multiple linear regression and mediation analyses were conducted.

Results

The findings suggest that a high WCR had a significant negative association with cognitive function (B = −0.535, 95% CI: −0.754, −0.317). Mediation analysis revealed that a high WCR influenced old adults' cognitive function in three ways: first, through the partial mediating effect of physical performance (B = −0.270; 95% CI: −0.340, −0.203); second, through the partial mediating effect of social activity (B = −0.035; 95% CI: −0.055, −0.017); and third, through the serial mediating effects of physical performance and social activity (B = −0.021, 95% CI: −0.029, −0.015).

Conclusion

The study results suggest the adverse impact of a high WCR on older adults' cognitive function, and the possible mechanisms of physical performance and social activity by which the association takes place. Multidimensional health and social interventions aimed at improving physical, social, and cognitive functioning among older adults with sarcopenic obesity are recommended.
Effect of different modalities of artificial intelligence rehabilitation techniques on patients with upper limb dysfunction after stroke—A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhu Yu , Wang Chen , Li Jin , Zeng Liqing , Zhang Peizhen
Published: April 2023

Background

This study aimed to observe the effects of six different types of AI rehabilitation techniques (RR, IR, RT, RT + VR, VR and BCI) on upper limb shoulder-elbow and wrist motor function, overall upper limb function (grip, grasp, pinch and gross motor) and daily living ability in subjects with stroke. Direct and indirect comparisons were drawn to conclude which AI rehabilitation techniques were most effective in improving the above functions.

Methods

From establishment to 5 September 2022, we systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP and Wanfang. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that met the inclusion criteria were included. The risk of bias in studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaborative Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. A cumulative ranking analysis by SUCRA was performed to compare the effectiveness of different AI rehabilitation techniques for patients with stroke and upper limb dysfunction.

Results

We included 101 publications involving 4,702 subjects. According to the results of the SUCRA curves, RT + VR (SUCRA = 84.8%, 74.1%, 99.6%) was most effective in improving FMA-UE-Distal, FMA-UE-Proximal and ARAT function for subjects with upper limb dysfunction and stroke, respectively. IR (SUCRA = 70.5%) ranked highest in improving FMA-UE-Total with upper limb motor function amongst subjects with stroke. The BCI (SUCRA = 73.6%) also had the most significant advantage in improving their MBI daily living ability.

Conclusions

The network meta-analysis (NMA) results and SUCRA rankings suggest RT + VR appears to have a greater advantage compared with other interventions in improving upper limb motor function amongst subjects with stroke in FMA-UE-Proximal and FMA-UE-Distal and ARAT. Similarly, IR had shown the most significant advantage over other interventions in improving the FMA-UE-Total upper limb motor function score of subjects with stroke. The BCI also had the most significant advantage in improving their MBI daily living ability. Future studies should consider and report on key patient characteristics, such as stroke severity, degree of upper limb impairment, and treatment intensity/frequency and duration.

Systematic review registration

www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#recordDetail, identifier: CRD42022337776.
Cerebral blood flow velocity progressively decreases with increasing levels of verticalization in healthy adults. A cross-sectional study with an observational design
Authors: Deseoe Julian , Schwarz Anne , Pipping Theodor , Lehmann Aurelia , Veerbeek Janne M. , Luft Andreas R. , Wegener Susanne , Globas Christoph , Held Jeremia P. O.
Published: April 2023

Background

Autoregulation of the cerebral vasculature keeps brain perfusion stable over a range of systemic mean arterial pressures to ensure brain functioning, e.g., in different body positions. Verticalization, i.e., transfer from lying (0°) to upright (70°), which causes systemic blood pressure drop, would otherwise dramatically lower cerebral perfusion pressure inducing fainting. Understanding cerebral autoregulation is therefore a prerequisite to safe mobilization of patients in therapy.

Aim

We measured the impact of verticalization on cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) and systemic blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and oxygen saturation in healthy individuals.

Methods

We measured CBFV in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) of the dominant hemisphere in 20 subjects using continuous transcranial doppler ultrasound (TCD). Subjects were verticalized at 0°, −5°, 15°, 30°, 45° and 70° for 3–5 min each, using a standardized Sara Combilizer chair. In addition, blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation were continuously monitored.

Results

We show that CBFV progressively decreases in the MCA with increasing degrees of verticalization. Systolic and diastolic BP, as well as HR, show a compensatory increase during verticalization.

Conclusion

In healthy adults CBFV changes rapidly with changing levels of verticalization. The changes in the circulatory parameters are similar to results regarding classic orthostasis.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04573114.
Optimizing cognitive neuroscience experiments for separating event- related fMRI BOLD responses in non-randomized alternating designs
Authors: Das Soukhin , Yi Weigang , Ding Mingzhou , Mangun George R.
Published: April 2023

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has revolutionized human brain research. But there exists a fundamental mismatch between the rapid time course of neural events and the sluggish nature of the fMRI blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal, which presents special challenges for cognitive neuroscience research. This limitation in the temporal resolution of fMRI puts constraints on the information about brain function that can be obtained with fMRI and also presents methodological challenges. Most notably, when using fMRI to measure neural events occurring closely in time, the BOLD signals may temporally overlap one another. This overlap problem may be exacerbated in complex experimental paradigms (stimuli and tasks) that are designed to manipulate and isolate specific cognitive-neural processes involved in perception, cognition, and action. Optimization strategies to deconvolve overlapping BOLD signals have proven effective in providing separate estimates of BOLD signals from temporally overlapping brain activity, but there remains reduced efficacy of such approaches in many cases. For example, when stimulus events necessarily follow a non-random order, like in trial-by-trial cued attention or working memory paradigms. Our goal is to provide guidance to improve the efficiency with which the underlying responses evoked by one event type can be detected, estimated, and distinguished from other events in designs common in cognitive neuroscience research. We pursue this goal using simulations that model the nonlinear and transient properties of fMRI signals, and which use more realistic models of noise. Our simulations manipulated: (i) Inter-Stimulus-Interval (ISI), (ii) proportion of so-called null events, and (iii) nonlinearities in the BOLD signal due to both cognitive and design parameters. We offer a theoretical framework along with a python toolbox called deconvolve to provide guidance on the optimal design parameters that will be of particular utility when using non-random, alternating event sequences in experimental designs. In addition, though, we also highlight the challenges and limitations in simultaneously optimizing both detection and estimation efficiency of BOLD signals in these common, but complex, cognitive neuroscience designs.
The prevalence and risk factors of anxiety in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyun , Song Ying , Wei Zhiqiang , Chen Xiao , Zhuang Xiaojia , Yi Li
Published: April 2023

Background

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) suffer from repetitive neurological deterioration, while anxiety may play a significant role in the disease’s progression.

Objective

To explore the prevalence of anxiety in MS and to investigate the risk factors related to anxiety in MS patients.

Methods

An analysis of four databases, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library, has been conducted to determine the prevalence or risk factors for anxiety in MS published before May 2021.

Results

In total, 32 studies were found to be eligible. Anxiety prevalence was estimated to be 36% based on the pooled estimates [the 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.30–0.42],I2= 98.4%]. Significant risk factors for developing of anxiety were as follows: age at survey [the weighted mean difference (WMD) = 0.96, 95% CI = [0.86–1.06],I2= 43.8%], female [the odd ratio (OR) = 1.78, 95% CI = [1.38–2.30],I2= 0%], living together (OR 2.83, 95% CI = [1.74–4.59],I2= 0%), past psychiatric history (OR 2.42, 95% CI = [1.56–3.75],I2= 0%), depression (OR 7.89, 95% CI = [3.71–16.81],I2= 0%), not taking MS medication (OR 2.33, 95% CI = [1.29–4.21],I2= 77.8%), relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) (OR 1.50, 95% CI = [0.94–2.37],I2= 53.5%), and baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) (OR 0.84, 95% CI = [0.48–1.21],I2= 62.2%).

Conclusion

An estimated 36% of people with MS suffer from anxiety. And anxiety rates in MS patients are significantly associated with age, gender, living together, prior psychiatric history, depression, drug compliance, RRMS, and baseline EDSS.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=287069, identifier CRD42021287069.
A sequential learning model with GNN for EEG-EMG-based stroke rehabilitation BCI
Authors: Li Haoyang , Ji Hongfei , Yu Jian , Li Jie , Jin Lingjing , Liu Lingyu , Bai Zhongfei , Ye Chen
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have the potential in providing neurofeedback for stroke patients to improve motor rehabilitation. However, current BCIs often only detect general motor intentions and lack the precise information needed for complex movement execution, mainly due to insufficient movement execution features in EEG signals.

Methods

This paper presents a sequential learning model incorporating a Graph Isomorphic Network (GIN) that processes a sequence of graph-structured data derived from EEG and EMG signals. Movement data are divided into sub-actions and predicted separately by the model, generating a sequential motor encoding that reflects the sequential features of the movements. Through time-based ensemble learning, the proposed method achieves more accurate prediction results and execution quality scores for each movement.

Results

A classification accuracy of 88.89% is achieved on an EEG-EMG synchronized dataset for push and pull movements, significantly outperforming the benchmark method's performance of 73.23%.

Discussion

This approach can be used to develop a hybrid EEG-EMG brain-computer interface to provide patients with more accurate neural feedback to aid their recovery.
Brain iron content in cerebral amyloid angiopathy using quantitative susceptibility mapping
Authors: Sharma Breni , Beaudin Andrew E. , Cox Emily , Saad Feryal , Nelles Krista , Gee Myrlene , Frayne Richard , Gobbi David G. , Camicioli Richard , Smith Eric E. , McCreary Cheryl R.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a small vessel disease that causes covert and symptomatic brain hemorrhaging. We hypothesized that persons with CAA would have increased brain iron content detectable by quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and that higher iron content would be associated with worse cognition.

Methods

Participants with CAA (n = 21), mild Alzheimer’s disease with dementia (AD-dementia; n = 14), and normal controls (NC; n = 83) underwent 3T MRI. Post-processing QSM techniques were applied to obtain susceptibility values for regions of the frontal and occipital lobe, thalamus, caudate, putamen, pallidum, and hippocampus. Linear regression was used to examine differences between groups, and associations with global cognition, controlling for multiple comparisons using the false discovery rate method.

Results

No differences were found between regions of interest in CAA compared to NC. In AD, the calcarine sulcus had greater iron than NC (β = 0.99 [95% CI: 0.44, 1.53], q < 0.01). However, calcarine sulcus iron content was not associated with global cognition, measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (p > 0.05 for all participants, NC, CAA, and AD).

Discussion

After correcting for multiple comparisons, brain iron content, measured via QSM, was not elevated in CAA compared to NC in this exploratory study.
Open-source software for automated rodent behavioral analysis
Authors: Isik Sena , Unal Gunes
Published: April 2023

Rodent behavioral analysis is a major specialization in experimental psychology and behavioral neuroscience. Rodents display a wide range of species-specific behaviors, not only in their natural habitats but also under behavioral testing in controlled laboratory conditions. Detecting and categorizing these different kinds of behavior in a consistent way is a challenging task. Observing and analyzing rodent behaviors manually limits the reproducibility and replicability of the analyses due to potentially low inter-rater reliability. The advancement and accessibility of object tracking and pose estimation technologies led to several open-source artificial intelligence (AI) tools that utilize various algorithms for rodent behavioral analysis. These software provide high consistency compared to manual methods, and offer more flexibility than commercial systems by allowing custom-purpose modifications for specific research needs. Open-source software reviewed in this paper offer automated or semi-automated methods for detecting and categorizing rodent behaviors by using hand-coded heuristics, machine learning, or neural networks. The underlying algorithms show key differences in their internal dynamics, interfaces, user-friendliness, and the variety of their outputs. This work reviews the algorithms, capability, functionality, features and software properties of open-source behavioral analysis tools, and discusses how this emergent technology facilitates behavioral quantification in rodent research.
Contribution of the dihydropyrimidinase-like proteins family in synaptic physiology and in neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Desprez Florence , Ung Dévina C. , Vourc’h Patrick , Jeanne Médéric , Laumonnier Frédéric
Published: April 2023

The dihydropyrimidinase-like (DPYSL) proteins, also designated as the collapsin response mediators (CRMP) proteins, constitute a family of five cytosolic phosphoproteins abundantly expressed in the developing nervous system but down-regulated in the adult mouse brain. The DPYSL proteins were initially identified as effectors of semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) signaling and consequently involved in regulation of growth cone collapse in young developing neurons. To date, it has been established that DPYSL proteins mediate signals for numerous intracellular/extracellular pathways and play major roles in variety of cellular process including cell migration, neurite extension, axonal guidance, dendritic spine development and synaptic plasticity through their phosphorylation status. The roles of DPYSL proteins at early stages of brain development have been described in the past years, particularly for DPYSL2 and DPYSL5 proteins. The recent characterization of pathogenic genetic variants in DPYSL2 and in DPYSL5 human genes associated with intellectual disability and brain malformations, such as agenesis of the corpus callosum and cerebellar dysplasia, highlighted the pivotal role of these actors in the fundamental processes of brain formation and organization. In this review, we sought to establish a detailed update on the knowledge regarding the functions of DPYSL genes and proteins in brain and to highlight their involvement in synaptic processing in later stages of neurodevelopment, as well as their particular contribution in human neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID).
Influence of foliar spray and post-harvest treatments on head yield, shelf-life, and physicochemical qualities of broccoli
Authors: Tarafder Sushanta Kumar , Biswas Mrityunjoy , Sarker Umakanta , Ercisli Sezai , Okcu Zuhal , Marc Romina Alina , Golokhvast Kirill S.
Published: April 2023

Rapid senescence is the key factor in the deterioration of post-harvest shelf-life in broccoli heads. This study evaluates the head yield and its related traits, and physicochemical attributes of broccoli under four foliar sprays of mineral nutrients (B, Zn, Mo, and B + Zn + Mo) with control. The interaction effects of shelf-life and physicochemical attributes of broccoli for these five pre-harvest and five post-harvest storage treatments (LDP bag, HDP vacuum pack, 2% eggshell powder solution, 2% ascorbic acid, and control) both at cold storage and room temperature were evaluated with three replications. The significantly higher marketable head yield of 28.02 t ha−1, maximum gross return [(Bangladesh Taka (BDT 420300 ha−1)], net return (BDT 30565 ha−1), and maximum benefit–cost ratio (BCR) of 3.67 were obtained from the pre-harvest foliar application of B + Zn + Mo in broccoli. Pre-harvest foliar spray of combined nutrient B + Zn + Mo and post-harvest treatment high-density polyethylene (HDP, 15 μm) vacuum packaging efficiently improve post-harvest physicochemical attributes, viz., compactness, green color, texture, carbohydrates, fats, energy, antioxidants, vitamin C, and total phenols in broccoli head compared to the rest of the treatment combinations. In addition, this treatment combination also confirmed a maximum shelf-life of 24.55 days at cold storage [relative humidity (RH) 90–95% and 4°C] and 7.05 days at room temperature (RH 60–65% and 14–22°C) compared to the rest of the treatment combinations. Therefore, we recommend a pre-harvest foliar spray of combined nutrient elements B + Zn + Mo and an HDP (15 μm) vacuum post-harvest packaging for the maximum benefits for both farmers and consumers to get the best head yield, anticipated physicochemical attributes, and maximum shelf-life of broccoli.
Increased dietary fiber is associated with weight loss among Full Plate Living program participants
Authors: Kelly Rebecca K. , Calhoun Janet , Hanus Amy , Payne-Foster Pamela , Stout Ron , Sherman Bruce W.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Prior studies have demonstrated that an intake of foods rich in dietary fiber is associated with a favorable impact on health status and body weight. However, the association between fiber intake and weight loss has not been well-studied in employer settings. This research aimed to assess the relationship between dietary fiber and weight loss among individuals participating in the Full Plate Living (FPL) program.

Methods

The 16-week plant-predominant fiber-rich eating program was delivered to 72 employers, primarily in the Southwest U.S., over 3 years (2017–2019). Participants received weekly video lessons, FPL materials, and additional online resources. A retrospective analysis of repeated measures was conducted using participant data obtained from 4,477 participants, of which 2,792 (62.5%) reduced body weight. Analysis of variance with post hoc analysis was used to assess the statistical significance of the changes between baseline and follow-up measures of dietary fiber intake in each of the food categories, specifically the relationship between changes in individual and combined (composite) daily servings of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts on body weight measures among three groups at follow-up: those who lost, maintained, or gained weight. Multilevel modeling was used to test the hypothesis that increased intake of fiber was associated with greater weight loss.

Results

The mean weight loss for the weight loss group was 3.28 kg. As compared to the two other groups, the intake of whole fiber-rich foods at follow-up was significantly higher among the weight loss group with fruits (2.45 servings), vegetables (2.99 servings), beans (1.03 servings), and total fiber composites (9.07 servings; P < 0.001). A significant increase in servings of grains was also noted (P < 0.05). Multilevel modeling demonstrated that a higher total fiber composite (Model 1), as well as higher intakes of either vegetables or fruits (Model 2), resulted in greater weight loss.

Discussion

Our findings indicate that the FPL program can be a part of a lifestyle medicine approach to healthy eating and weight loss. Delivering the program in clinical, community, and workplace settings can increase its reach as an effective and low-cost offering.
Transitioning to sustainable dietary patterns: learnings from animal-based and plant-based dietary patterns in French Canadian adults
Authors: Rochefort Gabrielle , Brassard Didier , Desroches Sophie , Robitaille Julie , Lemieux Simone , Provencher Véronique , Lamarche Benoît
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Many dietary guidelines promote the substitution of animal proteins with plant-based proteins for health benefits but also to help transitioning toward more sustainable dietary patterns. The aim of this study was to examine the food and nutrient characteristics as well as the overall quality and costs of dietary patterns consistent with lower intakes of animal-based protein foods and with higher intakes of plant-based protein foods among French Canadian adults.

Methods

Dietary intake data, evaluated with 24 h recalls, from 1,147 French-speaking adults of the PRÉDicteurs Individuels, Sociaux et Environnementaux (PREDISE) study conducted between 2015 and 2017 in Québec were used. Usual dietary intakes and diet costs were estimated with the National Cancer Institute’s multivariate method. Consumption of animal- and plant-based protein foods was classified into quarters (Q) and differences in food and nutrient intakes, Healthy Eating Food Index (HEFI)-2019 scores and diet costs across quarters were assessed using linear regression models adjusted for age and sex.

Results

Participants with lower intakes of animal-based protein foods (Q1 vs. Q4) had a higher HEFI-2019 total score (+4.0 pts, 95% CI, 0.9 to 7.1) and lower daily diet costs (-1.9 $CAD, 95% CI, –2.6 to -1.2). Participants with higher intakes of plant-based protein foods (Q4 vs. Q1) had a higher HEFI-2019 total score (+14.6 pts, 95% CI, 12.4 to 16.9) but no difference in daily diet costs (0.0$CAD, 95% CI, -0.7 to 0.7).

Discussion

In a perspective of diet sustainability, results from this study among French-speaking Canadian adults suggest that a shift toward a dietary pattern focused primarily on lower amounts of animal-based protein foods may be associated with a better diet quality at lower costs. On the other hand, transitioning to a dietary pattern focused primarily on higher amounts of plant-based protein foods may further improve the diet quality at no additional cost.
An mHealth-based school health education system designed to scale up salt reduction in China (EduSaltS): A development and preliminary implementation study
Authors: Zhang Puhong , Sun Jingwen , Li Yinghua , Li Yuan , Sun Yuewen , Luo Rong , Nie Xueqiong , Li Li , Liu Yu , He Feng J
Published: April 2023

Background

High-salt diet is an important risk factor for several non-communicable diseases. School-based health education has been found effective in reducing salt intake among children and their families in China. However, no such interventions have been scaled up in the real world. For this purpose, a study was launched to support the development and scale-up of an mHealth-based system (EduSaltS) that integrated routine health education and salt reduction and was delivered through primary schools. This study aims to elaborate the framework, development process, features, and preliminary scaling-up of the EduSaltS system.

Methods

The EduSaltS system evolved from previously successfully tested interventions to reduce family salt intake by empowering schoolchildren through school health education. EduSaltS was designed by following the WHO’s conceptual framework for developing a scaling-up strategy which accounted for the nature of the innovation, the capacity of the implementing organizations, the characteristics of the environment, the resources available, and type of scaling up. The system was then developed step by step from determination of online platform architecture, definition of component interventions and activities, development of specific educational materials and tools, to the development of the online/offline hybridized system. The system was tested and refined by a pilot in two schools and a preliminary scale-up in two cities in China.

Results

EduSaltS was developed as an innovative health education system, including an online WeChat-based education platform, a set of offline activities, and an actual administrative website showing the progress and setting the system. The WeChat platform could be installed on users’ smartphones to automatically deliver 20 sessions of five-minute well-structured cartoon video classes, followed by other online interactive activities. It also helps support project implementation and real-time performance evaluation. As a first-stage roll-out, a one-year course has been successfully implemented among 54,538 children and their families from 209 schools in two cities, and the average course completion rate was 89.1%.

Conclusion

As an innovative mHealth-based health education system, EduSaltS was developed based on successfully tested interventions and an appropriate framework for scaling up. The early-stage roll-out has shown its preliminary scalability, and further evaluation is ongoing.
A commercial blend of macroalgae and microalgae promotes digestibility, growth performance, and muscle nutritional value of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.) juveniles
Authors: Mota Cátia S. C. , Pinto Olívia , Sá Tiago , Ferreira Mariana , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Cabrita Ana R. J. , Almeida Agostinho , Abreu Helena , Silva Joana , Fonseca António J. M. , Valente Luisa M. P. , Maia Margarida R. G.
Published: April 2023

Algae can leverage aquaculture sustainability and improve the nutritional and functional value of fish for human consumption, but may pose challenges to carnivorous fish. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of a commercial blend of macroalgae (Ulva sp. and Gracilaria gracilis) and microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris and Nannochloropsis oceanica) in a plant-based diet up to 6% (dry matter basis) on digestibility, gut integrity, nutrient utilization, growth performance, and muscle nutritional value of European seabass juveniles. Fish (11.3 ± 2.70 g) were fed with isoproteic, isolipidic, and isoenergetic diets: (i) a commercial-type plant-based diet with moderate fishmeal (125 g kg−1 DM basis) and without algae blend (control diet; Algae0), (ii) the control diet with 2% algae blend (Algae2), (iii) the control diet with 4% algae blend (Algae4), and (iv) the control diet with 6% algae blend (Algae6) for 12 weeks. The digestibility of experimental diets was assessed in a parallel study after 20 days. Results showed that most nutrients and energy apparent digestibility coefficients were promoted by algae blend supplementation, with a concomitant increase in lipid and energy retention efficiencies. Growth performance was significantly promoted by the algae blend, the final body weight of fish fed Algae6 being 70% higher than that of fish fed Algae0 after 12 weeks, reflecting up to 20% higher feed intake of algae-fed fish and the enhanced anterior intestinal absorption area (up to 45%). Whole-body and muscle lipid contents were increased with dietary algae supplementation levels by up to 1.79 and 1.74 folds in Algae 6 compared to Algae0, respectively. Even though the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids was reduced, the content of EPA and DHA in the muscle of algae-fed fish increased by nearly 43% compared to Algae0. The skin and filet color of juvenile European seabass were significantly affected by the dietary inclusion of the algae blend, but changes were small in the case of muscle, meeting the preference of consumers. Overall results highlight the beneficial effects of the commercial algae blend (Algaessence®) supplementation in plant-based diets for European seabass juveniles, but feeding trials up to commercial-size fish are needed to fully assess its potential.
RET rearrangement-positive pancreatic cancer has remarkable response to pralsetinib: a case report
Authors: Zhang Tongyi , Wang Hongwei , Cai Zhiwei , Zhang Siqi , Jiang Chongyi
Published: April 2023

Patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer have limited treatment options and a dismal prognosis. While RET fusion is rare (0.6%) in pancreatic cancer, the efficacy of RET-targeted treatment in patients with TRIM33-RET fusion has not been previously reported. Herein, we presented a case of a 68-year-old man with pancreatic cancer harboring TRIM33-RET fusion who responded remarkably to pralsetinib despite being intolerant to chemotherapy. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the clinical value of a single TRIM33-RET fusion in pancreatic cancer, which may benefit from the targeted therapy.
Trends in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma on the lip incidence and mortality in the United States, 2000–2019
Authors: Zhang Jin , Yang Quyang , Wu Jinyan , Yuan Ruoyue , Zhao Xiansheng , Li Yue , Cheng Xiujun , Wu Baojin , Zhu Ningwen
Published: April 2023

Objective

This study provided a systematic analysis of the trend in incidence and incidence-based mortality for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) on the lips in the USA using demographic characteristics from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with cSCC on the lips between 2000 and 2019 from the 17 registries of the USA were identified. Incidence and incidence-based mortality rates were analyzed using SEER*Stat 8.4.0.1 software. This paper calculated incidence rates and incidence-based mortality rates by 100,000 person-years for sex, age, race, SEER registries, median household income ($/year), rural-urban distribution, and primary site. The annual percent changes (APC) in incidence and incidence-based mortality rates were then calculated using joinpoint regression software.

Results

Among 8,625 patients diagnosed with cSCC on the lips from 2000 to 2019, men (74.67%), white (95.21%), and 60–79 years old were the most common population, and 3,869 deaths from cSCC on the lips occurred. The overall incidence of cSCC on the lips was 0.516 per 100,000 person-years. cSCC on the lip incidence rates were highest among men, white, and patients aged 60–79 years old. cSCC on the lip incidence rates decreased by 3.210%/year over the study period. The incidence of cSCC on the lips has been decreasing in all sexes, ages, high- or low-income households, and urban or rural patients. The overall incidence-based mortality rate of cSCC on the lips during 2000–2019 was 0.235 per 100,000 person-years. cSCC on the lip incidence-based mortality rates were highest among men, whites, and people older than 80 years old. cSCC on the lip incidence-based mortality increased by 4.975%/year over the study period. cSCC on the lip incidence-based mortality rates increased for all sexes, races, ages, primary sites, high- or low-income households, and urban or rural patients during the study period.

Conclusion

Among patients in the USA diagnosed with cSCC on the lips from 2000 to 2019, the overall incidence decreased by 3.210% annually, and incidence-based mortality increased by 4.975%/year. These findings update and supplement the epidemiological information of cSCC on the lips in the USA.
Ferroptosis in hematological malignant tumors
Authors: Liu Yong , Du Zefan , Huang Junbin , Li Tianwen , Zhang Jing , Li Yixian , Yi Wenfang , Chen Chun
Published: April 2023

Ferroptosis is a kind of iron-dependent programmed cell death discovered in recent years. Its main feature is the accumulation of lipid reactive oxygen species in cells, eventually leading to oxidative stress and cell death. It plays a pivotal role in normal physical conditions and the occurrence and development of various diseases. Studies have shown that tumor cells of the blood system, such as leukemia cells and lymphoma cells, are sensitive to the response to ferroptosis. Regulators that modulate the Ferroptosis pathway can accelerate or inhibit tumor disease progression. This article reviews the mechanism of ferroptosis and its research status in hematological malignancies. Understanding the mechanisms of ferroptosis could provide practical guidance for treating and preventing these dreaded diseases.
TIDE: adjuvant tislelizumab plus donafenib combined with transarterial chemoembolization for high-risk hepatocellular carcinoma after surgery: protocol for a prospective, single-arm, phase II trial
Authors: Qi Weili , Peng Wei , Qi Xin , Qiu Zhancheng , Wen Tianfu , Li Chuan
Published: April 2023

Background

The high recurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after surgery negatively affects the prognosis of patients. There is currently no widely accepted adjuvant therapy strategy for patients with HCC. A clinical study of effective adjuvant therapy is still needed.

Methods

In this prospective, single-arm, phase II clinical trial, an adjuvant regimen of donafenib plus tislelizumab combined with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) will be used to treat enrolled HCC patients after surgery. Briefly, patients newly diagnosed with HCC by pathological examination who underwent curative resection and had a single tumor more than 5 cm in diameter with microvascular invasion as detected by pathological examination are eligible. The primary endpoint of the study is the recurrence-free survival (RFS) rate at 3 years, and secondary endpoints are the overall survival (OS) rate and the incidence of adverse events (AEs). The planned sample size, 32 patients, was calculated to permit the accumulation of sufficient RFS events in 3 years to achieve 90% power for the RFS primary endpoint.

Discussion

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathways regulate the relevant immunosuppressive mechanisms of HCC recurrence. Our trial will evaluate the clinical benefit of adding donafenib plus tislelizumab to TACE in patients with early-stage HCC and a high risk of recurrence.

Clinical trial registration

www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2200063003.
The association between tyrosine kinase inhibitors and fatal arrhythmia in patients with non-small cell lung cancer in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Wei-Ting , Lin Hui-Wen , Chang Ting-Chia , Lin Sheng-Hsiang , Li Yi-Heng
Published: April 2023

Objective

As a standard therapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) improved survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation. However, treatment-related cardiotoxicity, particularly arrhythmia, cannot be ignored. With the prevalence of EGFR mutations in Asian populations, the risk of arrhythmia among patients with NSCLC remains unclear.

Methods

Using data from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database and National Cancer Registry, we identified patients with NSCLC from 2001 to 2014. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we analyzed outcomes of death and arrhythmia, including ventricular arrhythmia (VA), sudden cardiac death (SCD), and atrial fibrillation (AF). The follow-up duration was three years.

Results

In total, 3876 patients with NSCLC treated with TKIs were matched to 3876 patients treated with platinum analogues. After adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, and anticancer and cardiovascular therapies, patients receiving TKIs had a significantly lower risk of death (adjusted HR: 0.767; CI: 0.729–0.807, p < 0.001) than those receiving platinum analogues. Given that approximately 80% of the studied population reached the endpoint of mortality, we also adjusted for mortality as a competing risk. Notably, we observed significantly increased risks of both VA (adjusted sHR: 2.328; CI: 1.592–3.404, p < 0.001) and SCD (adjusted sHR: 1.316; CI: 1.041–1.663, p = 0.022) among TKI users compared with platinum analogue users. Conversely, the risk of AF was similar between the two groups. In the subgroup analysis, the increasing risk of VA/SCD persisted regardless of sex and most cardiovascular comorbidities.

Conclusions

Collectively, we highlighted a higher risk of VA/SCD in TKI users than in patients receiving platinum analogues. Further research is needed to validate these findings.
Association of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intakes with juvenile myopia: A cross-sectional study based on the NHANES database
Authors: Zhou Zixiu , Li Sizhen , Yang Qingsong , Yang Xiaodong , Liu Yating , Hao Kuanxiao , Xu Shanshan , Zhao Na , Zheng Pengjie
Published: April 2023

Aim

Inflammation is involved in the development of myopia. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) have vasodilating and anti-inflammatory effects, which may be involved in controlling myopia. It is of great significance to explore the relationship between n-3 PUFA intakes and juvenile myopia in order to control and alleviate myopia among teenagers through dietary intervention.

Methods

Sociodemographic data, information of nutrient intakes, cotinine, PUFAs, and eye refractive status of 1,128 juveniles were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database in this cross-sectional study. PUFAs contained total polyunsaturated fatty acid (TPFAs), alpha-linolenic acid, octadecatetraenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Covariates were screened by comparison among groups of normal vision, low myopia, and high myopia. The association between n-3 PUFA intakes and the risk of juvenile myopia was evaluated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Among the juveniles, 788 (70.68%) had normal vision, 299 (25.80%) had low myopia, and 41 (3.52%) had high myopia. There were significant differences in average EPA and DHA intakes among the three groups, and mean DPA and DHA intakes in the normal vision group were lower than those in the low myopia group (P < 0.05). After adjustment for age, gender, TPFAs, and cotinine, a high dietary intake of EPA (≥11 mg/1,000 kcal) in juveniles seemed to be associated with the risk of high myopia (OR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18–0.85), while no significant associations were identified between n-3 PUFA intakes and the risk of low myopia.

Conclusion

A high dietary intake of EPA may be associated with a decreased risk of high myopia among juveniles. A further prospective study is needed to validate this observation.