bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infant and Young Child Feeding Practice among Mothers in Rural Areas of Gazipur District, Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md Anwar , Nazneen Humaira , Sharmin Saida , Chowdhury Ayesha Mahzabin , Afrin Atia
Published: January 2024

A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among 599 mothers who had at least one child aged 0–23-month to determine infant and young child feeding practice (IYCF) in rural areas of Bangladesh. The study was conducted between November 2019 and March 2020 in rural areas of Gazipur district. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Out of 599 respondents, the majority (62.93%) were in the 21-30 years age-group. Only 6.67% were illiterate and the rest of the respondents were literate with different levels of education. About one third (33.38%) of the respondents had monthly income between BDT 5001- 15000. 27% of the mothers could not give colostrum to the babies; half of them (50%) mentioned that baby could not suck well, while 43.83% mentioned being advised by the elders (not to give colostrum) and 6.17% mentioned their own illness. Pre-lacteal feeding practice was observed among 27% mothers and common pre-lacteal food was honey (61.25%), sugar water (35.63%) and animal milk (4.32%). Breastfeeding was initiated within the first hour of birth among 73.29% of mothers. 53.26% percent of mothers practice exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). Difficulties faced by mothers for EBF are insufficient secretion of breast milk (46.42%), not having knowledge about EBF (42.51%), and mother’s illness (11.07%). Most of the mothers (81.63%) gave complementary feeding in the correct time (6 months) and predominant complementary food was Khichuri (51.91%); however, most of them (60.77%) gave complementary food ≤3 times in a day. Our data suggests that the practice of IYCF was not optimum among the rural mothers. To improve this condition, it is necessary to motivate mothers through proper health education about the positive impacts of IYCF on child health.
CBMJ 2024 January: vol. 13 no. 01 P: 28-34
Correlation between the Maximum Length and the Weight of the Human Humerus Bone
Authors: Haque Shah Md Atiqul , Mehataz Tasnova , Afros Farzana , Mili Dilruba Afrose , Islam Shamima , Siddiquee Tasnoma , Tanzeem Sabiha , Debnath Dhrubajit , Ahmed Muntasir , Sultana Arifa
Published: January 2024

The humerus bone of the humans is frequently used in anatomical science, forensic medicine and anthropological studies. This cross-sectional, descriptive study was done on 100 (43 right and 57 left) fully ossified dry human humerus in the Department of Anatomy, Mymensingh Medical College, Bangladesh, between July 2021 to June 2022. A non-random, purposive sampling technique was adopted. The maximum length was determined by measuring the distance between the most superior point on the head of the humerus and the most distal point of the trochlea of the humerus. The length was measured with a metallic scale, while the weight of the humerus was measured using a digital weighing machine. The mean (±SD) maximum length of the right humerus was 304.139 (±17.652) mm, while the left humerus was 300.42 (±20.779) mm. The mean (±SD) weight of the right humerus was 91.069 (±26.944) gm and the left humerus was 93.965 (±32.227) gm. A positive correlation was observed between the maximum length and the weight of the human humerus through regression analysis (r=0.653 and r=0.824 on right and life side respectively). The differences were statistically significant on both sides (P<0.001).  
CBMJ 2024 January: vol. 13 no. 01 P: 60-65
A Rare Case of Virilizing Ovarian Fibrothecoma in A Teenage Girl
Authors: Ansari Nazma Parvin , Biswas Joy Prokas , Sen Swagota , Abrar Shakib , Spriha Fabiha Rahman
Published: January 2024

Ovarian fibrothecomas comprise tumors in the spectrum of ovarian sex cord / stromal tumors where there are components of both an ovarian fibroma and an ovarian thecoma. They account for 3-4% of all ovarian tumors. Most occur in adult women, with 65% in postmenopausal women. However, it represents only 2% of pediatric ovarian tumors. They are the most common benign solid ovarian tumor. The tumors are usually hormonally inactive but can be estrogenic or sometimes androgenic. Here we are reporting a rare case of a 15-year-old girl presenting with primary amenorrhea, severe hirsutism and finally diagnosed with ovarian fibrothecoma. After surgical removal of the tumor, a dramatic response was observed as the patient developed menarche. She was relieved of her hirsutism by laser therapy later, but her deep voice remained the same.  
CBMJ 2024 January: vol. 13 no. 01 P: 95-97
Der Frühlings- und Wintermythus der Kesarsage. Beiträge zur Kenntnis der vorbuddhistischen Religion Tibets und Ladakhs
Authors: Francke A. H.
Published: January 2024

Suomalais-Ugrilaisen Seuran Toimituksia XV (1,2)
Über Art, Entstehung und Verbreitung der estnisch-finnischen Runenmelodien. Eine Studie aus dem Gebiet der vergleichenden Volksmelodienforschung
Authors: Launis Armas
Published: January 2024

Suomalais-Ugrilaisen Seuran Toimituksia XXXI
Die finnisch-ugrischen s-Laute
Authors: Paasonen H.
Published: January 2024

Suomalais-Ugrilaisen Seuran Toimituksia XLI
Phonetik und Lautlehre des Inarilappischen. I. Beobachtungsphonetik und deskriptive Lautlehre. Erste Lieferung
Authors: Äimä Frans
Published: January 2024

Suomalais-Ugrilaisen Seuran Toimituksia XLII
Usefulness of Endoluminal Vacuum-Assisted Closure Therapy for Pharyngocutaneous Fistula
Authors: Lee Hyeong Beom , Kim Gun Ju , Hwang Juwon , Lee Joon Kyoo
Published: January 2024

Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is a communication created between the pharynx and skin of the neck associated with flap reconstruction or primary closure of a pharyngeal defect. In patients who underwent laryngectomy and pharyngectomy, salivary accumulation in the deep neck space through the pharyngeal dehiscence can cause life-threatening complications, among which is carotid artery blow-out. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, compressive dressing, and artificial nutrition are usually applied first. Many closing methods have been studied, both surgically (direct repair or using flaps) and non-surgically (negative pressure therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or botulinum toxin injection). The use of a vacuum-assisted closure system placed endoluminally or externally has been recently reported to treat any leaks in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Here, we report a successfully-treated PCF using the endoluminal vacuum-assisted closure system.
PRODUKTIVITAS DAN KOLABORASI PERISET PADA PUSAT RISET TEKNOLOGI RADIOISOTOP, RADIOFARMAKA DAN BIODOSIMETRI BADAN RISET DAN INOVASI NASIONAL BERDASARKAN ANALISIS BIBLIOMETRIK
Authors: Noer’aida Noer’aida , Rahayu Rochani Nani , Yusuf AR
Published: January 2024

The collaboration and productivity of researchers at the Research Center for Radioisotope Technology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Biodosimetry (PRTRRB) was carried out using the bibliometric method. The research objectives were to determine: 1) the Productivity of PRTRRB researchers, period 2021 -2022, 2) Collaboration of PRTRRB researchers, and 3) Trends/mapping of research results conducted. Data was collected from the Scopus database and https://intipdaqu.brin.go.id/paten. The research population was publications by 66 out of 69 researchers with Scopus IDs on 23 February 2023. The results showed that the number of publications in 2021 was 43, and in 2022 there were 38 titles. The most prolific researcher was Syaifudin M., who produced 14 documents, followed by Suseno and Wongso, each of whom produced 10 documents. PRTRRB produced 7 patents. A total of 30 countries collaborated with researchers, and the most was Japan. The research map that was carried out was divided into 7 clusters, and the most clusters were about radiopharmaceuticals, which concentrated on cancer treatment, assisted by natural ingredients. It was concluded that PRTRRB BRIN researchers are active in conducting research in the nuclear field, as evidenced by the publication of research results in various types of publications indexed in Scopus. Another indicator is the production of patents in the nuclear field.
Relative comparison of the benefits of wall envelope insulation materials in the South African energy zones, subject to the new national building energy efficiency standards
Authors: Kabundu Emmanuel , Mbanga Sijekula , Botha Brink , Ayesu-Koranteng Emma
Published: January 2024

Introduction: South Africa is ranked among the 20 highest greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters worldwide, mainly due to its heavy reliance on coal for energy. The residential building industry can play a significant role towards the minimization of both GHG emissions and energy consumption. This research assesses the beneficial impacts of utilizing wall envelope insulation measures using five insulation materials, for a detached residential building, within the seven energy zones of South Africa in accordance with the South African National code for Building energy efficiency (SANS10400-XA).

Methods: Lifecycle analysis (for 50 years), regression methods and sequential search techniques of building energy modelling were used to determine both the energy saving implications of adopting the insulation materials (at various levels of thickness), and their corresponding energy payback periods. The study area consisted of eight selected locations representing all the seven energy zones in South Africa (Welkom, Witbank, Thohoyandou, Cape Town, Pretoria, Ixopo, Sutherland, and Fraserburg).

Results: Sutherland (zone 6), Cape Town (zone 4) and Fraserburg (zone 7) benefitted most from energy savings due to application of insulation measures. Witbank (Zone 2), Thohoyandou (zone 3) and Pretoria (zone 5) never benefitted from application of wall envelope insulation (in terms of energy savings). Cellulose and straw yielded the lowest payback periods. Generally, polyurethane yielded the highest net energy savings at lower insulation thickness levels, while cellulose was preferable at higher insulation thickness levels in Welkom (zone1) Cape Town (zone 4), Ixopo (zone 5H), Sutherland (zone 6) and Fraserburg (zone 7).

Discussion: Lower optimal wall envelope insulation thicknesses (that maximized energy savings) appeared to correspond to locations with higher annual temperature ranges. Higher temperature ranges (hence, higher degree days) would ensure that more energy is saved in order to keep the indoor temperatures within the acceptable comfort limits, due to application of insulation. However, the selection of insulation material is also influenced by other factors such as resistance to insect and mould attack (which easily affect bio-insulation materials), fire retardancy, durability (which affects cellulose), sound proofing, structural strength, and resistance to water vapour.
Single-cell transcriptome profiling highlights the role of APP in blood vessels in assessing the risk of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy developing Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Xu Xiaoyu , Zhang Cheng , Tang Guoyi , Wang Ning , Feng Yibin
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The incidence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) has been found to be associated with the risk of developing Alzheimer‘s disease (AD). In addition to the common properties of neurodegeneration, their progressions are involved with abnormal vascular functions. However, the interactions between them have not been fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the key factor for the underlying interactions and shared signaling pathways in the vasculature of DR and AD.

Methods: We retrieved single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data regarding human fibrovascular membrane (FVM) of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and human hippocampus vessels of AD from the NCBI-GEO database. GSEA analysis was performed to analyze AD-related genes in endothelial cells and pericytes of PDR. CellChat was used for predicting cell-cell communication and the signaling pathway.

Results: The data suggested that amyloid-beta precursor protein (APP) signaling was found crucial in the vasculature of PDR and AD. Endothelial cells and pericytes could pose influences on other cells mainly via APP signaling in PDR. The endothelial cells were mainly coordinated with macrophages in the hippocampus vasculature of AD via APP signaling. The bulk RNA-seq in mice with PDR validated that the expression of APP gene had a significant correlation with that of the AD genome-wide association studies (GWAS) gene.

Discussion: Our study demonstrates that the vasculopathy of PDR and AD is likely to share a common signaling pathway, of which the APP-related pathway is a potential target.
Clinical characterization of a hypersensitivity mixed bacterial and fungal dermatitis in a translational model of porcine NASH
Authors: Felgendreff Philipp , Lawrence Josephine M. , Hosseiniasl Seyed M. , Jacobs Julie F. , Amiot Bruce P. , Felgendreff Lisa , Minshew Anna , Sultan Ahmer , Ahmadzada Boyukkhanim , Rahe Michael C. , Nyberg Scott L.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The development of animal models of chronic liver disease via diet modification is a promising avenue for translational research but can lead to unexpected side effects that impact model adoption. While these side effects are well characterized in rodent models of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), limited knowledge of these effects exists for novel porcine models of NASH. To close this gap, the present study investigates the side effects of diet-based NASH induction in pigs, with a systematic analysis of the pathologic mechanisms underlying dermatitis development and evaluation of treatment approaches.

Method

Twelve pigs (10 large domestic pigs, 2 Goettingen minipigs) were fed a methionine- and choline-deficient, high-fat diet for 8 weeks to induce NASH. A retrospective review of each animal’s clinical record was performed to identify the side effects of the diet. Following the identification of diet-associated dermatitis, severity was judged by using a novel gradation system that characterized the individual lesions and body regions resulting in a cumulative evaluation. In addition to this clinical assessment, the etiology of the dermatitis was investigated via histopathologic and microbiologic testing. Furthermore, the success of prophylactic and therapeutic treatment approaches was evaluated by considering dermatitis development and clinical course.

Results

All study animals demonstrated unexpected side effects of the methionine- and choline-deficient, high fat diet. In addition to marked dermatitis, study pigs showed impaired weight gain and developed steatorrhea and anemia. Based on the skin gradation system, five animals developed severe dermatitis, four animals moderate dermatitis, and three animals mild diet-associated dermatitis. Histological and microbiological evaluation of the affected skin showed signs of a hypersensitivity reaction with secondary infection by bacteria and fungi. The analysis showed that preemptive bathing extended the lesion-free duration by nearly 20 days. Furthermore, bathing in combination with a targeted antibiotic treatment represented a helpful treatment approach for diet-associated dermatitis.

Conclusion

The provision of a methionine- and choline-deficient, high fat diet represents an effective approach for inducing NASH liver disease in pigs but predisposes study animals to multiple side effects. These side effects are universal to animals on study but can be adequately managed and do not represent a significant limitation of this model.
Algorithm for predicting valvular heart disease from heart sounds in an unselected cohort
Authors: Waaler Per Niklas , Melbye Hasse , Schirmer Henrik , Johnsen Markus Kreutzer , Donnem Tom , Ravn Johan , Andersen Stian , Davidsen Anne Herefoss , Aviles Solis Juan Carlos , Stylidis Michael , Bongo Lars Ailo
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aims to assess the ability of state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms to detect valvular heart disease (VHD) from digital heart sound recordings in a general population that includes asymptomatic cases and intermediate stages of disease progression.

Methods

We trained a recurrent neural network to predict murmurs from heart sound audio using annotated recordings collected with digital stethoscopes from four auscultation positions in 2,124 participants from the Tromsø7 study. The predicted murmurs were used to predict VHD as determined by echocardiography.

Results

The presence of aortic stenosis (AS) was detected with a sensitivity of 90.9%, a specificity of 94.5%, and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.979 (CI: 0.963–0.995). At least moderate AS was detected with an AUC of 0.993 (CI: 0.989–0.997). Moderate or greater aortic and mitral regurgitation (AR and MR) were predicted with AUC values of 0.634 (CI: 0.565–703) and 0.549 (CI: 0.506–0.593), respectively, which increased to 0.766 and 0.677 when clinical variables were added as predictors. The AUC for predicting symptomatic cases was higher for AR and MR, 0.756 and 0.711, respectively. Screening jointly for symptomatic regurgitation or presence of stenosis resulted in an AUC of 0.86, with 97.7% of AS cases (n = 44) and all 12 MS cases detected.

Conclusions

The algorithm demonstrated excellent performance in detecting AS in a general cohort, surpassing observations from similar studies on selected cohorts. The detection of AR and MR based on HS audio was poor, but accuracy was considerably higher for symptomatic cases, and the inclusion of clinical variables improved the performance of the model significantly.
Blood nesfatin-1 levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Mei , Tong Jiao , Zhu Qing , Tang Huaiyun , Tang Lisha
Published: January 2024

Background

Previous studies have investigated the relationship between nesfatin-1 level and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, these studies have produced conflicting results. Thus, in this meta-analysis, we aimed to clarify the association between blood nesfatin-1 levels and PCOS, and the ability of nesfatin-1 as a biomarker in PCOS.

Methods

Meta-analysis was performed using STATA 12.0 software. We computed standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) regarding the comparison of blood nesfatin-1 in patients with PCOS and controls.

Results

The present meta-analysis showed no significant difference in blood nesfatin-1 level between patients with PCOS and controls with a random effects model (SMD = 0.03; 95%CI: -0.71, 0.77; I2 = 97.1%, p value for Q test < 0.001). Subgroup analysis for different ethnicities reported no significant difference in blood nesfatin-1 level between patients with PCOS and controls in both Caucasian and Asian populations. Subgroup analysis for different sample types reported no significant difference in serum nesfatin-1 level between patients with PCOS and controls. Subgroup studies reported no significant difference in blood nesfatin-1 level between PCOS and controls in both obese and non-obese populations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no significant relationship between blood nesfatin-1 levels and PCOS.
Defining the threshold: triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio’s non-linear impact on tubular atrophy in primary membranous nephropathy
Authors: Guan Mijie , Wu Liling , Cheng Yuan , Qi Dongli , Chen Jia , Song Haiying , Hu Haofei , Wan Qijun
Published: January 2024

Background

Hyperlipidemia is common in primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) patients, and tubular atrophy (TA) is an unfavorable prognostic factor. However, the correlation between the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio and TA is controversial. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the association between the TG/HDL-C ratio and TA in PMN patients.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study and collected data from 363 PMN patients at Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital from January 2008 to April 2023. The primary objective was to evaluate the independent correlation between the TG/HDL-C ratio and TA using binary logistic regression model. We used a generalized additive model along with smooth curve fitting and multiple sensitivity analyses to explore the relationship between these variables. Additionally, subgroup analyses were conducted to delve deeper into the results.

Results

Of the 363 PMN patients, 75 had TA (20.66%). The study population had a mean age of 46.598 ± 14.462 years, with 217 (59.78%) being male. After adjusting for sex, age, BMI, hypertension, history of diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, UPRO, eGFR, HB, FPG, and ALB, we found that the TG/HDL-C ratio was an independent risk factor for TA in PMN patients (OR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.61, P=0.0213). A non-linear correlation was observed between the TG/HDL-C ratio and TA, with an inflection point at 4.25. The odds ratios (OR) on the left and right sides of this inflection point were 1.56 (95% CI: 1.17, 2.07) and 0.25 (95% CI: 0.04, 1.54), respectively. Sensitivity analysis confirmed these results. Subgroup analysis showed a consistent association between the TG/HDL-C ratio and TA, implying that factors such as gender, BMI, age, UPRO, ALB, hypertension and severe nephrotic syndrome had negligible effects on the link between the TG/HDL-C ratio and TA.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates a non-linear positive correlation between the TG/HDL-C ratio and the risk of TA in PMN patients, independent of other factors. Specifically, the association is more pronounced when the ratio falls below 4.25. Based on our findings, it would be advisable to decrease the TG/HDL-C ratio below the inflection point in PMN patients as part of treatment strategies.
More complex than expected—mapping activities and youths’ experiences at BioBlitz events to the rosette model of science communication
Authors: Lorke Julia , Ballard Heidi L. , Robinson Lucy D.
Published: January 2024

Deficit, dialogue, or participation—which of these three main models of science communications is the best fit to describe activities and experiences of citizen science? One might assume that participation is the best match, but the reality of citizen science events is more complex. The rosette model of science communication offers a more detailed set of subcategories, e.g., educate, entertain, or do, in addition to the three main models—deficit, dialogue and participation. To systematically describe citizen science activities and experiences, we apply data on what activities are offered and what young people (5–19 years old) experience when participating in a citizen science event format called BioBlitzes across the rosette model. The mapping results illustrate how the rosette model can help to make citizen science project designers and practitioners more aware of the various modes of science communications that they may encounter at BioBlitz events and inform their design decisions regarding how settings can shape participants’ experiences.
Endometrial DNA methylation signatures during the time of breeding in relation to the pregnancy outcome in postpartum dairy cows fed a control diet or supplemented with rumen-protected methionine
Authors: Salilew-Wondim Dessie , Tholen Ernst , Held-Hoelker Eva , Shellander Karl , Blaschka Carina , Drillich Marc , Iwersen Michael , Suess David , Gebremedhn Samuel , Tesfaye Dawit , Parys Claudia , Helmbrecht Ariane , Guyader Jessie , Miskel Dennis , Trakooljul Nares , Wimmers Klaus , Hoelker Michael
Published: January 2024

Post calving metabolic stress reduces the fertility of high producing dairy cows possibly by altering the expression of genes in the maternal environment via epigenetic modifications. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify endometrial DNA methylation marks that can be associated with pregnancy outcomes in postpartum cows at the time of breeding. For this, twelve days post-calving, cows were either offered a control diet or supplemented daily with rumen-protected methionine. Cows showing heat 50–64 days postpartum were artificially inseminated. Endometrial cytobrush samples were collected 4–8 h after artificial insemination and classified based on the pregnancy out comes as those derived from cows that resulted in pregnancy or resulted in no pregnancy. The DNAs isolated from endometrial samples were then subject to reduced representative bisulfite sequencing for DNA methylation analysis. Results showed that in the control diet group, 1,958 differentially methylated CpG sites (DMCGs) were identified between cows that resulted in pregnancy and those that resulted in no pregnancy of which 890 DMCGs were located on chr 27: 6217254–6225600 bp. A total of 537 DMCGs were overlapped with 313 annotated genes that were involved in various pathways including signal transduction, signalling by GPCR, aldosterone synthesis and secretion. Likewise, in methionine supplemented group, 3,430 CpG sites were differentially methylated between the two cow groups of which 18.7% were located on Chr27: 6217254–6225600 bp. A total of 1,781 DMCGS were overlapped with 890 genes which involved in developmental and signalling related pathways including WNT-signalling, focal adhesion and ECM receptor interaction. Interestingly, 149 genes involved in signal transduction, axon guidance and non-integrin membrane-ECM interactions were differentially methylated between the two cow groups irrespective of their feeding regime, while 453 genes involved in axon guidance, notch signalling and collagen formation were differentially methylated between cows that received rumen protected methionine and control diet irrespective of their fertility status. Overall, this study indicated that postpartum cows that could potentially become pregnant could be distinguishable based on their endometrial DNA methylation patterns at the time of breeding.
Topical antifungal keratitis therapeutic potential of Clitoria ternatea Linn. flower extract: phytochemical profiling, in silico modelling, and in vitro biological activity assessment
Authors: Yolin Angel Poomany Arul Soundara Rajan , Jeyakumar Palanisamy , Jasmin Suriya Arul Raj , Sheena Aliyas , Karuppiah Ponmurugan , Periyasami Govindasami , Stalin Antony , Murugan Kasi
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Fungal keratitis (FK) poses a severe threat to vision, potentially leading to blindness if not promptly addressed. Clitoria ternatea flower extracts have a history of use in Ayurvedic and Indian traditional medicines, particularly for treating eye ailments. This study investigates the antifungal and antibiofilm effects of Clitoria ternatea flower extracts on the FK clinical isolate Coniochaeta hoffmannii. Structural details and key compound identification were analysed through FTIR and GC-MS.

Methods

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Clitoria ternatea flower extracts were determined using broth dilution and well plate techniques. Biofilm inhibitory activity was assessed through microscopic evaluation, while anti-irritant and cytotoxic properties were evaluated using CAE-EI and MTT assays. Through GC-MS and FT-IR analysis the compounds dissolved in the extract and their functional group were studied, and their toxicity screening and pharmacokinetic prediction were conducted in silico. Subsequently, compounds with high corneal permeability were further identified, and molecular docking and simulation studies at 150 ns were used to investigate their interactions with fungal virulence factors and human inflammatory proteins.

Results and Discussion

At a concentration of 250 µg/mL, the Clitoria ternatea flower extract displayed effective biofilm inhibition. MIC and MFC values were determined as 500 and 1000 µg/mL, respectively. CAE-EI and MTT assays indicated no significant irritant and cytotoxic effects up to a concentration of 3 mg/mL. Compounds like 9,9-dimethoxybicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4-dione showed high corneal permeability with strong and stable interactions with fungal virulence cellobiose dehydrogenase, endo β 1,4 xylanase, and glucanase, as well as corneal inflammation-associated human TNF-α and Interleukin IL-1b protein targets. The findings indicate that extracts from C. ternatea flowers could be formulated for an effective and safe alternative for developing new topical FK therapeutics.
Identification of L11L and L7L as virulence-related genes in the African swine fever virus genome
Authors: Fan Jiaqi , Zhang Jingyuan , Wang Fengjie , Miao Faming , Zhang Han , Jiang Yiqian , Qi Yu , Zhang Yanyan , Hui Lili , Zhang Dan , Yue Huixian , Zhou Xintao , Li Qixuan , Wang Yu , Chen Teng , Hu Rongliang
Published: January 2024

Introduction

African swine fever (ASF) is an infectious disease that causes considerable economic losses in pig farming. The agent of this disease, African swine fever virus (ASFV), is a double-stranded DNA virus with a capsid membrane and a genome that is 170-194 kb in length encoding over 150 proteins. In recent years, several live attenuated strains of ASFV have been studied as vaccine candidates, including the SY18ΔL7-11. This strain features deletion of L7L, L8L, L9R, L10L and L11L genes and was found to exhibit significantly reduced pathogenicity in pigs, suggesting that these five genes play key roles in virulence.

Methods

Here, we constructed and evaluated the virulence of ASFV mutations with SY18ΔL7, SY18ΔL8, SY18ΔL9, SY18ΔL10, and SY18ΔL11L.

Results

Our findings did not reveal any significant differences in replication efficiency between the single-gene deletion strains and the parental strains. Pigs inoculated with SY18ΔL8L, SY18ΔL9R and SY18ΔL10L exhibited clinical signs similar to those inoculated with the parental strains. Survival rate of pigs inoculated with 103.0TCID50 of SY18ΔL7L was 25%, while all pigs inoculated with 103.0TCID50 of SY18ΔL11L survived, and 50% inoculated with 106.0TCID50 SY18ΔL11L survived.

Discussion

The results indicate that L8L, L9R and L10L do not affect ASFV SY18 virulence, while the L7L and L11L are associated with virulence.
Epileptic seizure clustering and accumulation at transition from activity to rest in GAERS rats
Authors: Tran Hieu , Mahzoum Reda El , Bonnot Agnès , Cohen Ivan
Published: January 2024

Knowing when seizures occur may help patients and can also provide insight into epileptogenesis mechanisms. We recorded seizures over periods of several days in the Genetic Absence Epileptic Rat from Strasbourg (GAERS) model of absence epilepsy, while we monitored behavioral activity with a combined head accelerometer (ACCEL), neck electromyogram (EMG), and electrooculogram (EOG). The three markers consistently discriminated between states of behavioral activity and rest. Both GAERS and control Wistar rats spent more time in rest (55–66%) than in activity (34–45%), yet GAERS showed prolonged continuous episodes of activity (23 vs. 18 min) and rest (34 vs. 30 min). On average, seizures lasted 13 s and were separated by 3.2 min. Isolated seizures were associated with a decrease in the power of the activity markers from steep for ACCEL to moderate for EMG and weak for EOG, with ACCEL and EMG power changes starting before seizure onset. Seizures tended to occur in bursts, with the probability of seizing significantly increasing around a seizure in a window of ±4 min. Furthermore, the seizure rate was strongly increased for several minutes when transitioning from activity to rest. These results point to mechanisms that control behavioral states as determining factors of seizure occurrence.
Predictors for unfavorable prognosis after stroke with perforator artery disease
Authors: Song Linghua , Lou Xiaoli , Han Wenhao , Yang Lihui , Guo Siping , Jiang Yasi , Peng Hao , Hao Yonggang
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

Perforator artery disease (PAD) is an important subtype of ischemic stroke. The risk factors affecting the prognosis of patients with PAD are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors affecting the unfavorable prognosis of PAD.

Methods

Patients with PAD were enrolled from Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University and diagnosed as stroke with PAD during the period from September 2021 to July 2023 and followed up with a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) after 90 days, defining the mRS of 0–2 as a group with favorable prognosis, and 3–6 as a group with unfavorable functional outcome. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors for PAD. Multiple logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) were used to identify predictors of unfavorable prognosis.

Results

Of the 181 enrolled patients, 48 (26.5%) were identified with unfavorable prognosis. On multivariate analysis, increased age (OR = 1.076, 95% CI: 1.012 ~ 1.144, p = 0.019), higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission (OR = 2.930, 95% CI: 1. 905 ~ 4.508, p < 0.001), and increased neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (OR = 3.028, 95% CI: 1.615 ~ 5.675, p = 0.001) were independent risk factors for unfavorable prognosis in patients with PAD, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.590, 0.905, and 0.798, and the multi-factor diagnostic model (Model 2) showed reliable diagnostic specificity and sensitivity (area under the curve = 0.956, p < 0.001, specificity 0.805, sensitivity 0.958, accuracy 0.845).

Conclusion

Increased baseline NLR and NIHSS score and aging may be independent risk factors for unfavorable prognosis of patients with PAD. NLR can be used as a potential biological indicator to predict the prognosis of stroke with PAD.
Case report: Beneficial effects of visual cortex tDCS stimulation combined with visual training in patients with visual field defects
Authors: Lian Yanhua , Cheng Xiaoping , Chen Qunlin , Huang Libin , Xie Lili , Wang Wenzong , Ni Jun , Chen Xinyuan
Published: January 2024

Background

Visual field defect (VFD) refers to the phenomenon that the eye is unable to see a certain area within the normal range of vision, which may be caused by eye diseases, neurological diseases and other reasons. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is expected to be an effective treatment for the recovery or partial recovery of VFD. This paper describes the potential for tDCS in combination with visual retraining strategies to have a positive impact on vision recovery, and the potential for neuroplasticity to play a key role in vision recovery.

Methods

This case report includes two patients. Patient 1 was diagnosed with a right occipital hemorrhage and homonymous hemianopia. Patient 2 had multiple facial fractures, a contusion of the right eye, and damage to the optic nerve of the right eye, which was diagnosed as a peripheral nerve injury (optic nerve injury). We administered a series of treatments to two patients, including transcranial direct current stimulation; visual field restoration rehabilitation: paracentric gaze training, upper and lower visual field training, VR rehabilitation, and perceptual training. One time per day, 5 days per week, total 6 weeks.

Results

After 6 weeks of visual rehabilitation and tDCS treatment, Patient 1 Humphrey visual field examination showed a significant improvement compared to the initial visit, with a reduction in the extent of visual field defects, increased visual acuity, and improvement in most visual functions. Patient 2 had an expanded visual field, improved visual sensitivity, and substantial improvement in visual function.

Conclusion

Our case reports support the feasibility and effectiveness of tDCS combined with visual rehabilitation training in the treatment of occipital stroke and optic nerve injury settings.
The supplementation of a high dose of fish oil during pregnancy and lactation led to an elevation in Mfsd2a expression without any changes in docosahexaenoic acid levels in the retina of healthy 2-month-old mouse offspring
Authors: Macura Irena Jovanovic , Djuricic Ivana , Major Tamara , Milanovic Desanka , Sobajic Sladjana , Kanazir Selma , Ivkovic Sanja
Published: January 2024

Introduction

During fetal development, the proper development of neural and visual systems relies on the maternal supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids through placental transfer. Pregnant women are strongly advised to augment their diet with additional sources of omega-3, such as fish oil (FO). This supplementation has been linked to a reduced risk of preterm birth, pre-eclampsia, and perinatal depression. Recently, higher doses of omega-3 supplementation have been recommended for pregnant women. Considering that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate homeostasis required for the proper functioning of the retina and photoreceptors the effects of high-dose fish oil (FO) supplementation during pregnancy and lactation on the retina and retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) in healthy offspring warrant better understanding.

Methods

The fatty acid content and the changes in the expression of the genes regulating cholesterol homeostasis and DHA transport in the retina and RPE were evaluated following the high-dose FO supplementation.

Results

Our study demonstrated that despite the high-dose FO treatment during pregnancy and lactation, the rigorous DHA homeostasis in the retina and RPE of the two-month-old offspring remained balanced. Another significant finding of this study is the increase in the expression levels of major facilitator superfamily domain-containing protein (Mfsd2a), a primary DHA transporter. Mfsd2a also serves as a major regulator of transcytosis during development, and a reduction in Mfsd2a levels poses a major risk for the development of leaky blood vessels.

Conclusion

Impairment of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) is associated with the development of numerous ocular diseases, and a better understanding of how to manipulate transcytosis in the BRB during development can enhance drug delivery through the BRB or contribute to the repair of central nervous system (CNS) barriers.
Breast cancer but not the menopausal status is associated with small changes of the gut microbiota
Authors: Zeber-Lubecka Natalia , Kulecka Maria , Jagiełło-Gruszfeld Agnieszka , Dąbrowska Michalina , Kluska Anna , Piątkowska Magdalena , Bagińska Katarzyna , Głowienka Maria , Surynt Piotr , Tenderenda Michał , Mikula Michał , Ostrowski Jerzy
Published: January 2024

Background

Possible relationships between gut dysbiosis and breast cancer (BC) development and progression have been previously reported. However, the results of these metagenomics studies are inconsistent. Our study involved 88 patients diagnosed with breast cancer and 86 cancer-free control women. Participants were divided into groups based on their menopausal status. Fecal samples were collected from 47 and 41 pre- and postmenopausal newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and 51 and 35 pre- and postmenopausal controls, respectively. In this study, we performed shotgun metagenomic analyses to compare the gut microbial community between pre- and postmenopausal BC patients and the corresponding controls.

Results

Firstly, we identified 12, 64, 158, and 455 bacterial taxa on the taxonomy level of phyla, families, genera, and species, respectively. Insignificant differences of the Shannon index and β-diversity were found at the genus and species levels between pre- and postmenopausal controls; the differences concerned only the Chao index at the species level. No differences in α-diversity indexes were found between pre- and postmenopausal BC patients, although β-diversity differed these subgroups at the genus and species levels. Consistently, only the abundance of single taxa differed between pre- and postmenopausal controls and cases, while the abundances of 14 and 23 taxa differed or tended to differ between premenopausal cases and controls, and between postmenopausal cases and controls, respectively. There were similar differences in the distribution of enterotypes. Of 460 bacterial MetaCyc pathways discovered, no pathways differentiated pre- and postmenopausal controls or BC patients, while two and one pathways differentiated cases from controls in the pre- and postmenopausal subgroups, respectively.

Conclusion

While our findings did not reveal an association of changes in the overall microbiota composition and selected taxa with the menopausal status in cases and controls, they confirmed differences of the gut microbiota between pre- and postmenopausal BC patients and the corresponding controls. However, these differences were less extensive than those described previously.
Identification of colon cancer subtypes based on multi-omics data—construction of methylation markers for immunotherapy
Authors: Xu Benjie , Lian Jie , Pang Xiangyi , Gu Yue , Zhu Jiahao , Zhang Yan , Lu Haibo
Published: January 2024

Background

Being the most widely used biomarker for immunotherapy, the microsatellite status has limitations in identifying all patients who benefit in clinical practice. It is essential to identify additional biomarkers to guide immunotherapy. Aberrant DNA methylation is consistently associated with changes in the anti-tumor immune response, which can promote tumor progression. This study aims to explore immunotherapy biomarkers for colon cancers from the perspective of DNA methylation.

Methods

The related data (RNA sequencing data and DNA methylation data) were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and UCSC XENA database. Methylation-driven genes (MDGs) were identified through the Pearson correlation analysis. Unsupervised consensus clustering was conducted using these MDGs to identify distinct clusters of colon cancers. Subsequently, we evaluated the immune status and predicted the efficacy of immunotherapy by tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (Tide) score. Finally, The Quantitative Differentially Methylated Regions (QDMR) software was used to identify the specific DNA methylation markers within particular clusters.

Results

A total of 282 MDGs were identified by integrating the DNA methylation and RNA-seq data. Consensus clustering using the K-means algorithm revealed that the optimal number of clusters was 4. It was revealed that the composition of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in Cluster 1 was significantly different from others, and it exhibited a higher level of tumor mutation burdens (TMB) and stronger anti-tumor immune activity. Furthermore, we identified three specific hypermethylation genes that defined Cluster 1 (PCDH20, APCDD1, COCH). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves demonstrated that these specific markers could effectively distinguish Cluster 1 from other clusters, with an AUC of 0.947 (95% CI 0.903-0.990). Finally, we selected clinical samples for immunohistochemical validation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, through the analysis of DNA methylation, consensus clustering of colon cancer could effectively identify the cluster that benefit from immunotherapy along with specific methylation biomarkers.
Regulation of intestinal microflora and metabolites of Penthorum chinense Pursh on alcoholic liver disease
Authors: Zhang Hui , Cui Xiao , Liu Wei , Xiang Zheng , Ye Ji-Feng
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) was the second leading cause of liver injury. Penthorum chinense Pursh (GHC) is an important Miao ethnic drug of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of liver disease, but the pathogenesis is not clear.

Aim of the study: To analysis the intestinal microflora and metabolic pathway of GHC on ALD mice.

Methods: An HPLC-QTOF-MS method was used to identified the components from GHC extract, firstly. 60 mice were divided into six groups including blank group, model group, positive group and GHC groups (0.29, 0.87 and 2.61 g/kg). ALD mice was treated with GHC for 12 days. ALT, AST, TC and TG in serum were determined, liver index and pathological analysis were achieved. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to detect the intestinal microbial diversity. Finally, UPLC-QTOF-MS was used to analysis the metabolic pathways.

Results: 38 ingredients were identified in GHC extract. Compared with the model group, liver index of the positive group and GHC (2.61 g/kg) group was significantly reduced. Compared with the model group, contents of ALT, AST, TC and TG of GHC groups reduced in a dose-dependent manner. Intestinal microbial diversity analysis indicated that Chao1, Observed species, Pielou_e, and Shannon indexes in GHC group (2.61 g/kg) were lower than those in model group. Principal coordinate analysis indicated that the intestinal microbial composition between blank group and model group, the model group and GHC (2.61 g/kg) group changed significantly. Compared with the model group, proportion of Firmicutes decreased, and the proportion of Bacteroidetes increased significantly in GHC group, which were 50.84% and 40.15%. The more prominent bacteria in the GHC group were odoribacteraceae, turicibacter, deferribacteraceae, and the intestinal beneficial symbiotic bacteria mucispirillum. Metabolic analysis indicated that, compared with blank group, 90 metabolites in model group changed significantly, and 68 metabolites were significantly callback in GHC group.

Discussion: GHC has a therapeutic effect on ALD by regulating intestinal flora imbalance and metabolic pathways including Glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, Glutathione metabolism, Arginine and proline metabolism, Alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, Butanoate metabolism and primary bile acid biosynthesis.
Comparing the difference of adverse events with HER2 inhibitors: a study of the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS)
Authors: Bao Yiwen , Chen Jiaju , Duan Luting , Wang Fujue , Lai Han , Mo Zeming , Zhu Weiliang
Published: January 2024

Aim and background: This study attempted to identify similarities and differences in adverse events (AEs) between human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibitors, especially those related to hemorrhagic events and nervous system disorders.

Methods: This study summarized the types, frequencies, and system organ classes (SOCs) of AEs of HER2 inhibitors. The US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data from January 2004 through March 2022 was collected and analyzed. Disproportionality analyses were conducted to detect AEs signals for every HER2 inhibitor. The chi-square test, Wilcoxon test, and descriptive analysis were used to compare the differences of AEs for specific SOCs or drugs.

Results: A total of 47,899 AE reports were obtained for eight HER2 inhibitors. Trastuzumab-related AEs were reported in the highest number and combination of regimens. In monotherapy, trastuzumab had the highest reported rate of cardiac disorders-related AEs (24.0%). However, small-molecule drugs exceeded other drugs in the reported rates of AEs related to gastrointestinal disorders, metabolism and nutrition disorders. The highest reported rates of respiratory disorders (47.3%) and hematologic disorders (22.4%) were associated with treatment with trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd). Patients treated with trastuzumab emtansine (TDM-1) had the highest reported rate (7.28%) of hemorrhagic events, especially intracranial haemorrhage events. In addition, patients treated with TDM-1 with concomitant thrombocytopenia were likely to experience hemorrhagic events compared to other HER2 inhibitors (p < 0.001). The median time to onset of intracranial haemorrhage associated with trastuzumab (0.5 months) and TDM-1 (0.75 months) was short. However, there was no significant difference in median time to onset intracranial haemorrhage between patients in different age groups or with different outcomes. Disproportionality analysis results reveal that cerebral haemorrhage is a positive signal associated with T-DXd and TDM-1. In addition, tucatinib was the drug with the highest rate of reported nervous system disorders (31.38%). Memory impairment (83 cases) is a positive signal for tucatinib.

Conclusion: The types and reporting rates of AEs associated with different HER2 inhibitors vary across multiple systems. In addition, hemorrhagic events concomitant with TDM-1 treatment and nervous system disorders concomitant with tucatinib treatment may be worthy of attention.