bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EEG features in patients with different subtypes of prolonged and chronic endogenous manic-delusional states
Authors: Iznak A. F. , Iznak E. V. , Rumyantseva E. B. , Sizov S. V. , Oleichik I. V.
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the study. Analysis of the features of EEG spectral parameters in patients with polymorphic and monomorphic subtypes of prolonged and chronic endogenous manic-delusional states (PEMDS).Materials and methods. A clinical-neurophysiological study was carried out in 76 female patients with monomorphic (group 1, 34 patients) and polymorphic (group 2, 42 patients) subtypes of PEMDS, identified based on clinical-dynamic analysis.Results. In the group 1, compared with the group 2, there were significantly lower values of the spectral power of the pre-treatment EEG in most EEG leads and frequency sub-bands, which reflect a significant deficit in the brain inhibitory systems. In the group 2, the EEG slowdown (in the delta-frequency sub-band) after treatment course, was significantly more pronounced in the frontal-anterotemporal-central cortical zones of the left hemisphere, reflecting a greater increase of the neurophysiological processes of inhibition in these brain areas under the influence of treatment, which leads to an improvement in the clinical condition of patients.Conclusions. The revealed differences in the brain functional activity organization may mediate the features of the clinical picture and therapeutic response in patients with polymorphic and monomorphic subtypes of PEMDS.
Specificity of seizure genesis during electroconvulsive therapy and modified pentylenetetrazole kindling
Authors: Kozlovskii V. L. , Kosterin D. N. , Lepik O. V. , Popov M. Yu.
Published: November 2023

Comparison of the development of chemically induced seizures in the experiment with the change in convulsive thresholds during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has demonstrated that repeated ‘chemical’ seizures can initiate the development of the kindling phenomenon, but regular ECT from the first to the 14th session most likely cause an increase in convulsive thresholds. However, the repeated ECT over 15 sessions is associated with a rapid decrease in the threshold current dose and probable dysregulation of endogenous anticonvulsant mechanisms, with the risk of the development of uncontrolled paroxysmal conditions and the risk of organic CNS lesions. The mechanisms of the convulsive action of ECT and pentylenetetrazolinduced kindling are fundamentally different. Differences in the pathogenesis of systemic convulsive reactions determine the divergent change in seizure thresholds during ECT and pentylenetetrazol stimulations.
Pharmacological correction of cognitive status of patients with post-COVID syndrome
Authors: Chichanovskaya L. V. , Slyusar T. A. , Abramenko Yu. V. , Nekrasova T. M. , Slyusar I. N.
Published: November 2023

Objective. To study influence of Mexidol® and Mexidol® FORTE 250 on cognitive status of patients with post-COVID syndrome.Material and methods. We examined 112 patients aged 24–60 years (55 men and 57 women) who were divided into tho groups. The main group consisted of 76 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV‑2 NEW coronavirus infection having symptoms that served as the basis for the diagnosis of post-COVID syndrome. The control group consisted of 36 people who were not ill with coronavirus infection. Patients underwent neurological and general somatic examination. To study cognitive functions, we used the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Frontal Assessment Batter (FAB). Memory was evaluated according to results of ‘the Memory’ subtest of the MMSE, the 10-word test and tests of visual memory. The level of attention was studied using the Schulte tables and the word fluency test; visual-spatial functions were evaluated using the clock-drawing test. To correct the identified disorders, Mexidol® was used according to the scheme: 500 mg once daily intravenously for 14 days, followed by Mexidol® FORTE 250 750 mg per day orally (250 mg three times a day) for 2 months.Results. Patients with post-COVID syndrome were characterized by cognitive heterogeneity: mild and moderate cognitive impairments prevailed in the structure of cognitive disorders. The course of treatment with Mexidol® led to decrease in the severity of cognitive symptoms of post-COVID syndrome. The high efficacy and safety of long-term sequential therapy with Mexidol® (injections followed by tablets of Mexidol® FORTE 250) have been shown.
Study of inflammatory markers and their diagnostic effectiveness in patients with COVID-19 patients
Authors: Putkov S. B. , Davydova N. V. , Kazakov S. P.
Published: November 2023

The study examines the relationship between the levels of laboratory serum markers of inflammation and severity in patients with COVID-19.

   The purpose of the study. To investigate the mechanisms of interaction of inflammatory markers and calculate their diagnostic effectiveness in patients with COVID-19 in assessing the severity and prognosis of the disease.

   Materials and methods. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of the blood of 104 patients aged 20–84 years admitted to the hospital. The patients were divided into groups: group 1 – mild degree (n = 14); group 2 – moderate degree (n = 50); group 3 – severe degree (n = 40). The concentration of procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), presepsin (PSP), proadrenomedullin (MRpro-ADM), ferritin (F), components of the complement system C 3, C 4 were determined using original reagent kits on automated systems.

   Results. In the obtained results of primary studies in the general group, an increase in the average values of inflammatory markers from reference values was noted. Correlation analysis revealed reliable direct medium and weak connections between markers of inflammation. Thresholdvalues were obtained when comparing groups with mild and moderate severity for MRpro-ADM, PCT, F, and in the group with moderate and severe severity for PCT, PSP, CRP and IL-6, above which we can talk about the transition of the disease to a moderate and severe degree of the disease, respectively.

   Conclusions. Determination of concentration and threshold values with parameters of diagnostic sensitivity of acute-phase markers of inflammation serves as an additional criterion for assessing the severity of the disease, prognosis, monitoring of treatment, but not specific diagnosis and allows you to understand the mechanisms of the immune system response.
Chronic heart failure patient and COVID-19: Focus on laboratory markers of myocardial damage
Authors: Bagisheva N. V. , Moiseeva M. V. , Mordyk A. V. , Streltsova V. V. , Antipova E. P.
Published: November 2023

The aim of the study. To determine the severity of the current COVID-19 in patients with CHF.

   Materials and methods. The study included data from 98 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in combination with CHF. The data on the duration of hospitalization, the severity of the lesion, the dynamics of the level of laboratory parameters are analyzed.

   Results. In 68 patients with CHF 2A, stage I of CHF in 27 patients and in 3 patients – stage 0. CHF of functional class I – 23 patients, FC II – 73 patients, FC III – 2 patients. The average duration of hospitalization was 15 days. Blood saturation (SpO2) in the range of 95–100 % was determined in 75 patients, 90–95 % – in 20 people, less than 90 % – in 3 patients. In 42.86 % of patients, an increase in the level of D-dimer was detected according to laboratory studies.

   Conclusions. Patients 60 years and older with CHF 2A and FC II with pronounced clinical symptoms are at risk of severe infection requiring hospitalization. Concomitant diseases of the cardiovascular system increase the duration of hospitalization.
Problem of determining vitamin D status
Authors: Klimenkova O. A. , Mezina E. Yu. , Krikunova D. M. , Pashkova V. P. , Berestovskaya V. S.
Published: November 2023

Background. Recently, the demand for the measurement of vitamin D has been growing at a rate outrunning other types of laboratory tests. However, estimates of the prevalence of this nutrient status among population groups vary widely, based on target levels considered adequate or optimal for maintaining good health. The lack of a unified approach to stratifying the values of vitamin D in a patient’s blood creates difficulties in assessing the status of this nutrient.

   Objective. Stratification of vitamin D results in pediatric and adult patients examined between 2017 and 2022 at the St. Petersburg Consultative and Diagnostic Centre for Children, using criteria of different research groups and professional societies.

   Materials and methods. Vitamin D measurements were carried out using an immunochemical analyzer from January 2017 to December 2022 in 15,946 samples from children and 9,163 from adults.

   Results. Using stratification criteria proposed by various research groups and professional societies, the range of vitamin D deficiency in 2017–2019 ranged from 3.0 % to 63.9 % in children and from 2.4 % to 81.7 % in adults. In 2020–2022 deficient status was less common for all criteria: from 0.2 % to 51.2 % in children and from 0.1 % to 42.5 % in adults. An inverse relationship was noted for vitamin D levels associated with risk of harm. In 2017–2019 such values were detected in 1.0 %, in 2020–2022 in 2.8 % of children. In adults, similar rates increased from 1.8 % in 2017–2019 up to 3.5 % in 2020–2022.

   Conclusions. The wide variation in approaches reflects the uncertainty in research findings, recommendations, and guidelines involving vitamin D. Consensus on vitamin D thresholds will help arrive at the most likely conclusions from an evidence-based clinical perspective when establishing an association between a risk factor and an outcome.
Reference values of vitamin D status: Why is everything not so clear
Authors: Khabarov S. V. , Denisova O. V. , Dalinskaya A. V.
Published: November 2023

Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining human health and has many positive properties. Its deficiency can negatively affect the body and worsen the quality of life. Worldwide, deficiency of this vitamin is a widespread problem. Different states set their own reference values of vitamin D levels for their populations. The article considers the justifications underlying the establishment of recommendations for its level and the basic units of measurement of 25(OH)D. Understanding the differences in normal vitamin D values between countries makes it possible to more accurately adapt recommendations to specific populations and ensure that optimal vitamin D levels are achieved, which is necessary to maintain the health of the population.
Language usage as a modulator of bilingual selective attention
Authors: Theron-Grimaldi Stéphen , Bozic Mirjana
Published: November 2023

Bilingualism leads to significant adaptation of the neural mechanisms of selective attention. Nevertheless, it remains unclear what the key factors that influence this adaptation are. The degree of usage of multiple languages has been shown to modulate cognitive control processes and language-related brain activity, and we therefore predict that L2 usage will have a significant impact on bilinguals’ selective attention processes. The other key question concerns the dynamics of this adaptation. The degree of bilingual adaptation of selective attention is expected to depend on bilinguals’ language experience, and therefore might no longer be observed in bilinguals who stopped using their L2 actively. Forty-six English-French bilinguals took part in an EEG experiment. There all started learning L2 (French) by age 8 and were all highly proficient, but differed in their L2 usage to create 3 groups: High-usage, Low-usage, and No-usage. Participants engaged in a dichotic-listening task, attending to narratives in their L1 or L2 while dealing with linguistic or acoustic interference in the unattended stream. We predict that High-usage bilinguals will exhibit robust selective attention adaptation, with less susceptibility to interference. This effect should be less pronounced in Low-usage bilinguals, emphasizing the role of language usage. No-usage bilinguals may resemble monolinguals in their response to interference, suggesting that bilingual adaptations are not static. Our preliminary EEG analysis will be presented at the symposium. This research sheds light on how bilingual experiences shape the neural mechanisms of selective attention, offering insights into the dynamic nature of neuroplastic changes in the bilingual brain.
Large Language Models for Slot Filling with Limited Data
Authors: Sun Guangzhi
Published: November 2023

Recently, advancements in large language models (LLMs) have shown an unprecedented ability across various language tasks. This paper investigates the potential application of LLMs to slot filling with noisy ASR transcriptions, via both in-context learning and task-specific fine-tuning. Dedicated prompt designs and fine-tuning approaches are proposed to improve the robustness of LLMs for slot filling with noisy ASR transcriptions. Moreover, a linearised knowledge injection (LKI) scheme is also proposed to integrate dynamic external knowledge into LLMs. Experiments were performed on SLURP to quantify the performance of LLMs, including GPT-3.5-turbo, GPT-4, LLaMA-13B and Vicuna-13B (v1.1 and v1.5) with different ASR error rates. The use of the proposed fine-tuning together with the LKI scheme for LLaMA-13B achieved an 8.3% absolute SLU-F1 improvement compared to the strong Flan-T5-base baseline system on a limited data setup.
THE ANIMUS OF THE MAIN CHARACTER IN “GIRL MANS UP” NOVEL BY M-E GIRARD
Authors: Marceline Florencia Sandra , Mandala Robby Satria
Published: November 2023

This research is conducted to discover the animus of a masculine girl in the novel titled “Girl Mans Up” written by M-E Girard. This research applies an analytical psychology approach, specifically archetypal approach with the concept of animus archetype proposed by Carl Jung. Animus is the masculine qualities or traits in females’ psyche, in opposition with her outer appearance. This research focuses on the stages of the animus development of the main female character whose outer appearance was not feminine. The research method used is descriptive qualitative method. To collect and analyze the data, the researchers use library research method. There are two types of data, which are primary and secondary. Primary data are collected from the novel and secondary data are collected from books and articles related to animus to support the research. The analysis shows that the main character’s animus was on the first and second stage of development, with three data for Man of Power stage and six data for Man of Action stage, and that gender expression does not fully signify the person’s psychological traits.
THE ANALYSIS OF CONTENT TEXTS IN THE TEXTBOOK: COMMUNICATIVE ENGLISH IN CONTEXT PUBLISHED BY GRAFINDO
Authors: Sitoresmi Woro Endah , Herlini Herlini , Asma Nur
Published: November 2023

Since the analysis of textbook is highly important and beneficial for teaching and learning process and also as a reflective syllabus and curriculum, the present study aims to overview the content texts in the English textbook: Communicative English in Context for ninth graders published by Grafindo. It involves kinds of texts, how they were presented in this English textbook and their compatibility with syllabus and 2013 curriculum. It belongs to descriptive qualitative study which used document analysis to proceed the data in this study which kinds of texts become the main data. The findings show that kinds of texts which also embedded grammar points in this textbook are in the form of dialogues and informative texts such as descriptive, procedural, report and narrative texts which have fulfilled social function, generic structure and linguistic feature. Furthermore, these texts which become the materials for teaching and learning process are simply designed and compatible with syllabus and 2013 curriculum since they are relevant with students’ competencies.
Internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective in reducing depressive symptomatology in type 1 diabetes: results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Carreira Mónica , Ruiz de Adana Ma Soledad , Pinzón José Luis , Anarte-Ortiz María Teresa
Published: November 2023

Objective

Depression in people with diabetes is associated with poorer health outcomes. Although web programs integrating cognitive-behavioral therapy with diabetes education have shown good results, no similar approach has been implemented in Spain. This aim of this study was to administer an Internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy program (CBT) for the treatment of mild-moderate depressive symptomatology in individuals with type 1 diabetes (WEB_TDDI1 study) and evaluate the efficacy of this program.

Research design and methods

A pre-post randomized controlled study was conducted. The sample comprised 65 people with type 1 diabetes and mild-moderate depressive symptoms: 35 treatment group (TG) and 30 control group (CG). The following effects of the nine-session program were analyzed: depression (Beck Depression Inventory Fast Screen, BDI-FS), metabolic variables (glycosilated hemoglobin, HbA1c), and other psychological variables including anxiety (State Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI), fear of hypoglycemia (Fear of Hypoglycemia Questionnaire, FH-15), distress (Diabetes Distress Questionnaire (DDS), quality of life (Diabetes Quality of Life Questionnaire, DQOL),and treatment adherence (Diabetes Self-Care Inventory-Revised questionnaire, SCI-R).

Results

At the end of the treatment program, only 28 people were evaluated (TG=8; CG=20). However, a significant reduction was found in both groups in BDI-FS and STAI-T scores, which was significantly greater in the TG. Significant improvements were also found in the TG in DQOL, FH-15, DDS and SCI-R scores. The percentage change in these variables was also statistically significant in the TG versus the CG. However, no significant results were found in HbA1c.

Conclusions

The Internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy program for the treatment of mild-moderate depressive symptomatology in people with type 1 diabetes (WEB_TDDI1 study) is effective in reducing depressive symptomatology in the sample that completed the study. Positive results are also produced in other variables associated with depression in this population such as diabetes-related distress, trait anxiety, fear of hypoglycemia, quality of life, and adherence to diabetes treatment. Although new studies would be necessary to support the results of this platform, the results obtained are positive and support the use of this platform as an appropriate treatment for this population.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; identifier NCT03473704.
Multi-scale models of whole cells: progress and challenges
Authors: Georgouli Konstantia , Yeom Jae-Seung , Blake Robert C. , Navid Ali
Published: November 2023

Whole-cell modeling is “the ultimate goal” of computational systems biology and “a grand challenge for 21st century” (Tomita, Trends in Biotechnology, 2001, 19(6), 205–10). These complex, highly detailed models account for the activity of every molecule in a cell and serve as comprehensive knowledgebases for the modeled system. Their scope and utility far surpass those of other systems models. In fact, whole-cell models (WCMs) are an amalgam of several types of “system” models. The models are simulated using a hybrid modeling method where the appropriate mathematical methods for each biological process are used to simulate their behavior. Given the complexity of the models, the process of developing and curating these models is labor-intensive and to date only a handful of these models have been developed. While whole-cell models provide valuable and novel biological insights, and to date have identified some novel biological phenomena, their most important contribution has been to highlight the discrepancy between available data and observations that are used for the parametrization and validation of complex biological models. Another realization has been that current whole-cell modeling simulators are slow and to run models that mimic more complex (e.g., multi-cellular) biosystems, those need to be executed in an accelerated fashion on high-performance computing platforms. In this manuscript, we review the progress of whole-cell modeling to date and discuss some of the ways that they can be improved.
Cardioprotective effects of Moku-boi-to and its impact on AngII-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy
Authors: Tagashira Hideaki , Abe Fumiha , Sato-Numata Kaori , Aizawa Karen , Hirasawa Kei , Kure Yoshinobu , Iwata Daiki , Numata Tomohiro
Published: November 2023

Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, induced by elevated levels of angiotensin II (AngII), plays a crucial role in cardiovascular diseases. Current therapeutic approaches aim to regress cardiac hypertrophy but have limited efficacy. Widely used Japanese Kampo medicines are highly safe and potential therapeutic agents. This study aims to explore the impact and mechanisms by which Moku-boi-to (MBT), a Japanese Kampo medicine, exerts its potential cardioprotective benefits against AngII-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, bridging the knowledge gap and contributing to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. By evaluating the effects of six Japanese Kampo medicines with known cardiovascular efficiency on AngII-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cell death, we identified MBT as a promising candidate. MBT exhibited preventive effects against AngII-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, cell death and demonstrated improvements in intracellular Ca2+ signaling regulation, ROS production, and mitochondrial function. Unexpectedly, experiments combining MBT with the AT1 receptor antagonist losartan suggested that MBT may target the AT1 receptor. In an isoproterenol-induced heart failure mouse model, MBT treatment demonstrated significant effects on cardiac function and hypertrophy. These findings highlight the cardioprotective potential of MBT through AT1 receptor-mediated mechanisms, offering valuable insights into its efficacy in alleviating AngII-induced dysfunction in cardiomyocytes. The study suggests that MBT holds promise as a safe and effective prophylactic agent for cardiac hypertrophy, providing a deeper understanding of its mechanisms for cardioprotection against AngII-induced dysfunction.
Role of atrial high-rate episodes in stratifying thromboembolic risk: a multiple cut-off diagnostic meta-analysis
Authors: Saglietto Andrea , Ballatore Andrea , Griffith Brookles Carola , Xhakupi Henri , De Ferrari Gaetano Maria , Anselmino Matteo
Published: November 2023

Aims

Despite the high prevalence rate of atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) detected using cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), clinical guidelines and consensus documents have disagreed on a universal AHRE definition and a temporal cut-off related to subsequent thromboembolic events. This diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis aims to derive the optimal temporal threshold of clinically significant AHREs from the available literature.

Methods

The PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were screened for studies on CIED patients reporting the incidence of thromboembolic events related to at least one AHRE temporal cut-off. A total of 23 studies were included: 19 considering the longest single AHRE and four the AHRE burden, respectively. A random-effect diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis with multiple cut-offs was performed. Two analyses were performed according to the AHRE temporal cut-off subtype (longest episode vs. cumulative burden).

Results

The analysis on the longest single AHRE indicated 0.07 min as the optimal duration to differentiate AHRE associated or not with thromboembolic events [sensitivity 65.4% (95% CI 48.8%–79.0%), specificity 52.7% (95% CI 46.0%–59.4%), and area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-SROC): 0.62]. The analysis on AHRE burden indicated 1.4 min as the optimal cut-off [sensitivity 58.2% (95% CI 25.6%–85.0%), specificity 57.5% (95% CI 42.0%–71.7%), and AUC-SROC 0.60]. A sensitivity analysis excluding patients with a history of atrial fibrillation and including high-quality studies only yielded similar results.

Conclusion

The presence of AHRE, rather than a specific duration, relates to an increased, albeit low, thromboembolic risk in CIED patients. Any AHRE should constitute an additional element in patient-specific thromboembolic risk assessment.
The use and context of fiber plants during the middle preceramic: evidence from La Yerba II and III, south coast of Peru
Authors: Alday Camila , García Maria Angélica , Alarcón Carmela , Beresford-Jones David
Published: November 2023

Bast fiber artifacts from the Pacific coast of South America are among the earliest evidence of fabric manipulation and the foundation of the millennial Andean textile tradition. Recent examinations of plant macro remains and plant fiber artifacts from La Yerba II (7570–6674 cal BP) and La Yerba III (6485–5893 cal BP) sites provide insight into how plant fabric technologies and pre-loom textile traditions unfolded over the Middle Preceramic (or Middle Archaic; 8000–5000 BP) on the south coast of Peru. Using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we conduct comparative analyses of modern and archaeological plants to assess the taxonomy and morphological distinctions between them to discriminate species. We identify materials from wild-gathered plants in the Cyperaceae, Typhaceae, and Apocynaceae families and show how they were used to make fishing nets, looped bags, mats, and other artifacts. Evidence from tools and cut marks also enabled us to reconstruct parts of the chaîne opératoire of the fiber production. We discuss the significance of plants from wetland and estuarine habitats in the interrelated dimensions of fabric manufacture and food consumption among these coastal hunter-gatherers.
The value of extracurricular activities to Japanese junior high school students: focusing on the expression of a school’s attractiveness in writing
Authors: Onoda Ryosuke , Omi Yasuhiro
Published: November 2023

This study explores the value of extracurricular activities to Japanese junior high school students and how this value can be transmitted to junior students through essay writing. The study participants involved Japanese seventh graders; the essay focused on school attractiveness and covered the following three conditions: (1) “control condition,” where juniors (sixth graders) are assumed to be readers, (2) “emphasis condition,” where the teacher requested participants to assume a more specific view of the juniors, and (3) “emphasis–visualization condition,” where the teacher requested participants to assume a more specific view of juniors and where the participants visualized the characteristics of juniors before completing the writing assignment. More information regarding extracurricular activities was provided in the emphasis–visualization condition. This suggests that when Japanese junior high school students are highly aware of their juniors, they evaluate extracurricular activities as an attractive school feature and readily transmit this value to younger students.
Assessment of trace elements in the long-term banana cultivation field’s soil
Authors: Islam Md Saiful , Islam Md Towhidul , Ismail Zulhilmi , Islam Abu Reza Md Towfiqul , Khan Rahat , Hasan Fakhrul , Kabir Md Humayun , Ezewudo Bede Izuchukwu , Ibrahim Khalid A. , Idris Abubakr M.
Published: November 2023

This work assesses the contamination of trace elements (Cr, Cu, Ni, As, Zn Cd, Mn, Fe, and Pb) in soil and different tissues of the banana plant (Musa spp.), the ecological risks of trace elements using various indices, and the probable health risks using a chemometric approach. Soil and different banana plant tissues were collected from banana fields around the industrial area of the capital of old Pundranagar (the earliest urban archaeological location), Bangladesh. Samples were digested by acid digestion, and trace elements were measured by inductively coupled plasma spectrophotometer (ICP-MS). The concentrations of Cr, Ni, Cu, As, Cd, Pb, Fe, Mn, and Zn in soil ranged from 1.50–61.7, 2.42–87.4, 2.00–100.8, 0.25–31.2, 0.10–12.7, 0.60–91.8, 11330–23782, 8.69–105.9, and 7.50–125.9 mg/kg, respectively. The mean concentrations of trace elements in four tissues descend in order of roots > leaves > stems > fruits. The abundances of trace elements varied in both soil and plant samples, which apparently occurred due to the variations of soil parent materials and the excessive use of agrochemicals for long-term banana cultivation. The soil exhibited a moderate to high degree of contamination with trace elements, and Cr, Pb, Zn, Cd, and As mainly originated from anthropogenic sources. Both non-cancer and cancer risks were perceived due to Cr and As exposure from the fruit tissue of banana plants in the study area.
Modeling climate-smart forest management and wood use for climate mitigation potential in Maryland and Pennsylvania
Authors: Papa Chad C. , DeLyser Kendall , Clay Kylie , Gadoth-Goodman Daphna , Cooper Lauren , Kurz Werner A. , Magnan Michael , Ontl Todd
Published: November 2023

State and local governments are increasingly interested in understanding the role forests and harvested wood products play in regional carbon sinks and storage, their potential contributions to state-level greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, and the interactions between GHG reduction goals and potential economic opportunities. We used empirically driven process-based forest carbon dynamics and harvested wood product models in a systems-based approach to project the carbon impacts of various forest management and wood utilization activities in Maryland and Pennsylvania from 2007 to 2100. To quantify state-wide forest carbon dynamics, we integrated forest inventory data, harvest and management activity data, and remotely-sensed metrics of land-use change and natural forest disturbances within a participatory modeling approach. We accounted for net GHG emissions across (1) forest ecosystems (2) harvested wood products, (3) substitution benefits from wood product utilization, and (4) leakage associated with reduced in-state harvesting activities. Based on state agency partner input, a total of 15 management scenarios were modeled for Maryland and 13 for Pennsylvania, along with two climate change impact scenarios and two bioenergy scenarios for each state. Our findings show that both strategic forest management and wood utilization can provide substantial climate change mitigation potential relative to business-as-usual practices, increasing the forest C sink by 29% in Maryland and 38% in Pennsylvania by 2030 without disrupting timber supplies. Key climate-smart forest management activities include maintaining and increasing forest extent, fostering forest resiliency and natural regeneration, encouraging sustainable harvest practices, balancing timber supply and wood utilization with tree growth, and preparing for future climate impacts. This study adds to a growing body of work that quantifies the relationships between forest growth, forest disturbance, and harvested wood product utilization, along with their collective influence on carbon stocks and fluxes, to identify pathways to enhance forest carbon sinks in support of state-level net-zero emission targets.
Sterility testing of germ-free mouse colonies
Authors: Dremova Olga , Mimmler Maximilian , Paeslack Nadja , Khuu My Phung , Gao Zhenling , Bosmann Markus , Garo Lucien P. , Schön Nathalie , Mechler Alexa , Beneich Yunes , Rebling Vivian , Mann Amrit , Pontarollo Giulia , Kiouptsi Klytaimnistra , Reinhardt Christoph
Published: November 2023

In biomedical research, germ-free and gnotobiotic mouse models enable the mechanistic investigation of microbiota-host interactions and their role on (patho)physiology. Throughout any gnotobiotic experiment, standardized and periodic microbiological testing of defined gnotobiotic housing conditions is a key requirement. Here, we review basic principles of germ-free isolator technology, the suitability of various sterilization methods, and the use of sterility testing methods to monitor germ-free mouse colonies. We also discuss their effectiveness and limitations, and share the experience with protocols used in our facility. In addition, possible sources of isolator contamination are discussed and an overview of reported contaminants is provided.
A novel multistage antigens ERA005f confer protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis by driving Th-1 and Th-17 type T cell immune responses
Authors: Fan Xueting , Zhao Xiuqin , Wang Ruibai , Li Machao , Luan Xiuli , Wang Ruihuan , Wan Kanglin , Liu Haican
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major threat to human health. In 2021, TB was the second leading cause of death after COVID-19 among infectious diseases. The Bacillus Calmette–Guérin vaccine (BCG), the only licensed TB vaccine, is ineffective against adult TB. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new effective vaccines.

Methods

In this study, we developed a novel multistage subunit vaccine (ERA005f) comprising various proteins expressed in metabolic states, based on three immunodominant antigens (ESAT-6, Rv2628, and Ag85B). We utilized the E. coli prokaryotic expression system to express ERA005f and subsequently purified the protein using nickel affinity chromatography and anion exchange. Immunogenicity and protective efficacy of ERA005f and ERA005m were evaluated in BALB/c mice.

Results

ERA005f was consistently expressed as an inclusion body in a prokaryotic expression system, and a highly pure form of the protein was successfully obtained. Both ERA005f and ERA005m significantly improved IgG titers in the serum. In addition, mice immunized with ERA005f and ERA005m generated higher titers of antigen-specific IgG2a than the other groups. Elispot results showed that, compared with other groups, ERA005f increased the numbers of IFN-γ-secreting and IL-4-secreting T cells, especially the number of IFN-γ-secreting T cells. Meanwhile, ERA005f induced a higher number of IFN-γ+ T lymphocytes than ERA005m did. In addition, ERA005f improved the expression of cytokines, including IFN-γ, IL-12p70, TNF-α, IL-17, and GM-CSF and so on. Importantly, both ERA005f and ERA005m significantly inhibited the growth of Mtb.

Conclusion

The novel multistage antigen ERA005f elicited a strong antigen-specific humoral response and Th-1 and Th-17 cell-mediated immunity in mice. Meanwhile, it can effectively inhibit H37Rv growth in vitro, and represents a correlate of protection in vivo, indicating that ERA005f may exhibit excellent protective efficacy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv infection. Our study suggests that ERA005f has the potential to be a promising multistage tuberculosis vaccine candidate.
Recent advances in exosome-based immunotherapy applied to cancer
Authors: Xie Jindong , Zheng Zihan , Tuo Ling , Deng Xinpei , Tang Hailin , Peng Cheng , Zou Yutian
Published: November 2023

Cancer stands as a prominent contributor to global mortality rates, necessitating immediate attention toward the exploration of its treatment options. Extracellular vesicles have been investigated as a potential cancer therapy in recent years. Among them, exosomes, as cell-derived nanovesicles with functions such as immunogenicity and molecular transfer, offer new possibilities for immunotherapy of cancer. However, multiple studies have shown that exosomes of different cellular origins have different therapeutic effects. The immunomodulatory effects of exosomes include but are not limited to inhibiting or promoting the onset of immune responses, regulating the function of molecular signaling pathways, and serving as carriers of antitumor drugs. Therefore, this mini-review attempts to summarize and evaluate the development of strategies for using exosomes to package exogenous cargos to promote immunotherapy in cancer.
Molecular and cellular characterization of immunity conferred by lactobacilli against necrotic enteritis in chickens
Authors: Alizadeh Mohammadali , Shojadoost Bahram , Boodhoo Nitish , Raj Sugandha , Sharif Shayan
Published: November 2023

Necrotic enteritis is an important enteric disease of poultry that can be controlled with in-feed antibiotics. However, with the concerns over antimicrobial resistance, there is an increased interest in the use of alternatives. Probiotics are one of the alternatives that have gained considerable attention due to their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the effects of two different Lactobacillus species alone or as a cocktail on prevention of necrotic enteritis. Day-old male broiler chickens were divided into five groups and on days 1, 8, 15, and 22, birds in groups 2 and 3 received 1×108 colony forming units (CFU) of L. johnsonii and L. reuteri, respectively. Group 4 received probiotic cocktails containing both bacteria (108 CFU/bird) and the negative and positive control groups did not receive any lactobacilli. Starting on day 23 post-hatch, birds in all groups (except the negative control group) were orally challenged twice per day with 3×108 CFU of a pathogenic C. perfringens strain for 3 days. Tissue and cecal samples were collected before and after challenge to assess gene expression, lymphocyte subsets determination, and microbiome analysis. On day 26 of age, lesion scoring was performed. The results demonstrated that the group that received the lactobacilli cocktail had significantly reduced lesion scores compared to the positive control group. In addition, the expression of interleukin (IL)-12 in the jejunum and CXC motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), IL-13, and IL-17 in the ileum were downregulated in the group that received the lactobacilli cocktail when compared to the positive control. Treating chickens with the lactobacilli cocktail prior to challenge enhanced the percentage of CD3-CD8+ cells and Bu-1+IgY+ B cells in the ileum and increased the frequency of monocyte/macrophages, CD3-CD8+ cells, Bu-1+IgM+, and Bu-1+IgY+ B cells in the jejunum. Treatment with the lactobacilli cocktail reduced the relative expression of Gamma-Protobacteria and Firmicutes compared to the positive control group. In conclusion, the results presented here suggest that treatment with the lactobacilli cocktail containing L. johnsonii and L. reuteri reduced necrotic enteritis lesions in the small intestine of chickens, possibly through the modulation of immune responses.
Operationalizing One Health: strategic guidance for prevention and control of emerging and re-emerging vector-borne and zoonotic diseases in the Eastern Mediterranean Region
Authors: Kodama Chiori , El Rifay Amira S. , Badra Rebecca , Abu Salbi Rana , Abubakar Abdinasir , Kayali Ghazi
Published: November 2023

Operationalizing global One Health strategies at the field level to prevent and control vector-borne and zoonotic diseases (VBZDs) is of significant public health importance. Such strategies should be coordinated at the human–animal–ecosystems interface and applied at the national, regional, and global levels through the enforcement of effective policies. We aimed to develop a regional framework that can aid countries of the World Health Organization Eastern Mediterranean region to better prevent, detect, and respond to VBZDs events. This strategic guidance is a twelve-element framework drafted using various guidance documents and peer-reviewed scientific literatures, incorporating recommendations made through expert consultations. The framework elements were then integrated within a logical framework designed for practical implementation of One Health at regional and country level.
Origin and spread of leprosy in Suriname. A historical and biomedical study
Authors: Faber William R. , Sewpersad Karin , Menke Henk , Avanzi Charlotte , Geluk Annemieke , Verhard Els M. , Tió Coma Maria , Chan Mike , Pieters Toine
Published: November 2023

The new world was considered free of leprosy before the arrival of Europeans. In Suriname, historical migration routes suggest that leprosy could have been introduced from West Africa by the slave trade, from Asia by indentured workers, from Europe by the colonizers, and more recently by Brazilian gold miners. Previous molecular studies on environmental and ancient samples suggested a high variability of the strains circulating in the country, possibly resulting from the various migration waves. However, a current overview of such diversity in humans still needs to be explored. The origin and spread of leprosy in Suriname are investigated from a historical point of view and by strain genotyping of Mycobacterium leprae from skin biopsies of 26 patients with multibacillary leprosy using PCR-genotyping and whole-genome sequencing. Moreover, molecular signs of resistance to the commonly used anti-leprosy drugs i.e. dapsone, rifampicin and ofloxacin, were investigated. Molecular detection was positive for M. leprae in 25 out of 26 patient samples, while M. lepromatosis was not found in any of the samples. The predominant M. leprae strain in our sample set is genotype 4P (n=8) followed by genotype 1D-2 (n=3), 4N (n=2), and 4O/P (n=1). Genotypes 4P, 4N, 4O/P are predominant in West Africa and Brazil, and could have been introduced in Suriname by the slave trade from West Africa, and more recently by gold miners from Brazil. The presence of the Asian strains 1D-2 probably reflects an introduction by contract workers from India, China and Indonesia during the late 19th and early 20th century after the abolition of slavery. There is currently no definite evidence for the occurrence of the European strain 3 in the 26 patients. Geoplotting reflects internal migration, and also shows that most patients live in and around Paramaribo. A biopsy of one patient harbored two M. leprae genotypes, 1D-2 and 4P, suggesting co-infection. A mutation in the dapsone resistance determining region of folP1 was detected in two out of 13 strains for which molecular drug susceptibility was obtained, suggesting the circulation of dapsone resistant strains.
Heat content and temperature trends in the Mediterranean Sea as derived from Argo float data
Authors: Kubin Elisabeth , Menna Milena , Mauri Elena , Notarstefano Giulio , Mieruch Sebastian , Poulain Pierre-Marie
Published: November 2023

The Mediterranean Sea is very sensitive to climatic changes due to its semi-enclosed nature and is therefore defined as one of the hotspots in future climate change projections. In this study, we use Argo float data to assess climatologies and trends in temperature and Ocean Heat Content (OHC) throughout the Mediterranean Sea and for specific sub-basins (e.g. Western and Eastern Mediterranean, Gulf of Lion, South Adriatic). The amount of the OHC, spatially averaged in bins of 1°x1° over the period from 2001 to 2020, increases from west to east in the Mediterranean Sea. Time series of temperature and OHC from 2005 to 2020, estimated in the surface and intermediate layers (5-700 m) and deeper layer (700-2000 m), reveal significant warming trends and an increase of OHC. The upper 700 m of the Mediterranean Sea show a temperature trend of 0.041 ± 0.012°C·yr-1, corresponding to an annual increase in OHC of 3.59 ± 1.02 W·m-2. The Western Mediterranean Sea (5-700 m) is warming fastest with an increase in temperature at a rate of 0.070 ± 0.015°C·yr-1, corresponding to a yearly increase in OHC of 5.72 ± 1.28 W·m-2. Mixing and convection events within convection sites and along boundary currents transport and disperse the temperature and OHC changes. Significant warming trends are evident in the deeper layers (700-2000 m) of the two deep convection sites in the Mediterranean Sea (Gulf of Lion, South Adriatic), with an exceptionally strong warming trend in the South Adriatic from 2013 to 2020 of 0.058 ± 0.005°C·yr-1, corresponding to a yearly increase in OHC of 9.43 ± 0.85 W·m-2. The warming of the different water masses will show its feedback on ocean dynamics and air-sea fluxes in the next years, decades, and even centuries as these warming waters spread or re-emerge. This will provide more energy to the atmosphere, resulting in more extreme weather events and will also stress ecosystems and accelerate the extinction of several marine species. This study contributes to a better understanding of climate change in the Mediterranean region, and should act as another wake-up call for policy makers and society.
Assessing awareness of long-term health risks among women with a history of preeclampsia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mpalatsouka Ismini , Zachariou Myria , Kyprianidou Maria , Fakonti Georgia , Giannakou Konstantinos
Published: November 2023

Pregnancy complications, such as hypertensive disorders, present a substantial global public health challenge, with significant long-term implications for maternal and offspring health. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the level of awareness regarding long-term health risks among women who experienced preeclampsia during pregnancy in Cyprus and Greece. The study participants included adult women with a history of preeclampsia, while women with normal pregnancies were used as the comparison group. Data collection took place between June 2021 and February 2022, utilizing an online, self-administered questionnaire. The study included 355 women, with 139 (39.2%) in the preeclampsia group and 216 (60.8%) in the comparison group. Findings revealed that more than half of the women with prior preeclampsia (55.4%) were not aware of hypertensive disorders that can occur during pregnancy before their diagnosis, and a similar percentage (45.2%) had not received information about the long-term health risks following their diagnosis. Remarkably, only 3 participants (4.7%) with a history of preeclampsia were aware of the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. There were no statistically significant differences between the preeclampsia and the comparison group regarding their concerns about long-term health risks, frequency of health checks, perceptions of factors influencing cardiovascular disease development, and doctor communication about different health topics, except from hypertension or high blood pressure. The study underscores the low level of awareness of long-term health risks among women with prior preeclampsia in Cyprus and Greece. This emphasizes the importance of implementing public health programs aimed at promoting cardiovascular risk assessment and effective management, both for clinicians and women with have experienced preeclampsia.