bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise preconditioning and resveratrol reduce the susceptibility of rats with obstructive jaundice to endotoxin and alleviate lung injury
Authors: Li Xujiong , Li Wei , Wang Tao , Li Yan , Zhao Li
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Endotoxemia is a common issue for patients with biliary obstruction. The lung is the most affected organ by endotoxins. Exercise training can alleviate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung inflammation and resveratrol has biological effects similar to exercise. In this study, we evaluated the protective effects of exercise preconditioning, resveratrol, and their combination on LPS-induced lung injury and mortality in rats with obstructive jaundice.

Methods

Endotoxemia was simulated in rats by common bile duct ligation (CBDL) and intraperitoneal injection of low-dose LPS. The treatment groups were pretreated with exercise and/or resveratrol to assess their effects on lung injury and mortality. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and ELISA were subsequently used to evaluate the impact of exercise and/or resveratrol on inflammation in lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.

Results

We found that even in the early stages, compared to sham-LPS rats, low-dose LPS induced excessive systemic inflammatory responses in CBDL rats, as evidenced by a significant increase in TNF-α and IL-6, severe lung inflammation, lung injury, and higher mortality rates, indicating that cholestasis increased rats’ susceptibility to endotoxins. Exercise training reduced neutrophil infiltration in the lungs of model rats and IL-6 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Both exercise training and resveratrol exhibited synergistic effects in reducing macrophage accumulation in lung tissues, lowering TNF-α and IL-6 levels in the lungs, and decreasing TNF-α concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Additionally, exercise and combined interventions both significantly increased the expression of IL-10. The interventions induced a marked improvement in lung tissue pathological damage and lung edema in model rats and prolonged the survival time of rats with obstructive jaundice.

Discussion

This study demonstrates that exercise preconditioning and/or resveratrol can significantly reduce rats’ susceptibility to endotoxins after CBDL and alleviate lung injuries through their anti-inflammatory effects, thereby decreasing the mortality risk.
Significance of host antimicrobial peptides in the pathogenesis and treatment of acne vulgaris
Authors: Lesiak Agata , Paprocka Paulina , Wnorowska Urszula , Mańkowska Angelika , Król Grzegorz , Głuszek Katarzyna , Piktel Ewelina , Spałek Jakub , Okła Sławomir , Fiedoruk Krzysztof , Durnaś Bonita , Bucki Robert
Published: December 2024

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the pilosebaceous units characterized by multiple immunologic, metabolic, hormonal, genetic, psycho-emotional dysfunctions, and skin microbiota dysbiosis. The latter is manifested by a decreased population (phylotypes, i.e., genetically distinct bacterial subgroups that play different roles in skin health and disease) diversity of the predominant skin bacterial commensal - Cutinbacterium acnes. Like in other dysbiotic disorders, an elevated expression of endogenous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) is a hallmark of AV. AMPs, such as human β-defensins, cathelicidin LL-37, dermcidin, or RNase-7, due to their antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties, function as the first line of defense and coordinate the host-microbiota interactions. Therefore, AMPs are potential candidates for pharmaceutical prophylaxis or treating this condition. This study outlines the current knowledge regarding the importance of AMPs in AV pathomechanism in light of recent transcriptomic studies. In particular, their role in improving the tight junctions (TJs) skin barrier by activating the fundamental cellular proteins, such as PI3K, GSK-3, aPKC, and Rac1, is discussed. We hypothesized that the increased expression of AMPs and their patterns in AV act as a compensatory mechanism to protect the skin with an impaired permeability barrier. Therefore, AMPs could be key determinants in regulating AV development and progression, linking acne-associated immune responses and metabolic factors, like insulin/IGF-1 and PI3K/Akt/mTOR/FoxO1 signaling pathways or glucotoxicity. Research and development of anti-acne AMPs are also addressed.
Diagnostic value of multi-tumor-associated autoantibody expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and correlation of clinical features
Authors: Zhou Sihao , Liu Kejun , Yang Yuyu , Yuan Chuan , Liu Yi , Liang Yi , Li Wenhao , Zhang Jingjing , Ye Hongyu , Gong Sheng , Wu Yingmeng , Huang Weizhao
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of 7-tumor associated autoantibodies (7-TAAB) and to evaluate the relationship between 7-TAAB and clinical features in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), which can be used to guide clinical diagnosis and treatment and achieve its clinical value.

Methods

(1) Blood specimens were collected from patients with ESCC who had not previously received antitumor therapy (ESCC group) and those who had normal medical check-ups in the hospital during the same period (control group). The concentrations of 7-TAAB (P53, PGP9.5, SOX2, GAGE7, GBU4-5, MAGE A1, and CAGE) in serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The concentrations of 7-TAAB were compared between the ESCC and control groups, and the positive rate of 7-TAAB was calculated to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 7-TAAB. The diagnostic value of 7-TAAB was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. (2) The clinical data of patients with ESCC were collected and the correlation between the rate of 7-TAAB and clinical features was analyzed.

Results

(1) The serum levels and positivity rates of five antibodies (PGP9.5, SOX2, GBU4-5, MAGE-A1, and CAGE) were higher in the ESCC group than in the control group (P < 0.05) and the positive expression rate of the combined serum 7-TAAB in the ESCC group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). (2) The sensitivity of single antibody detection was 4.20%–17.65%, with a specificity of 96.49%–100%, and accuracy of 51.07%–57.94%. The sensitivity of 7-TAAB combined detection was 49.58%, the specificity was 92.98%, and the accuracy was 70.81%. (3) The ROC curve showed that the 7-TAAB combined test had a certain diagnostic value for ESCC and that its diagnostic efficacy was significantly higher than that of the single autoantibody tests. The diagnostic efficacy of the combined test with the remaining five antibodies (PGP9.5, SOX2, GBU4-5, MAGE-A1, and CAGE) was similar to that of the 7-TAAB combined test after eliminating the two antibodies with low expression rates. (4) Univariate analysis revealed significant differences in the positive expression rates of the 7-TAAB combination test in terms of age, hemoglobin level, albumin level, tumor location, tumor length, lymph node stage, and tumor clinical stage (P < 0.05), and multivariate analysis revealed that age and lymph node stage were independent factors affecting antibody expression.

Conclusion

The multi-tumor-associated autoantibody combination test not only has a good auxiliary diagnostic value but also closely correlates with the clinical features of ESCC.
An intelligent predictive maintenance system based on random forest for addressing industrial conveyor belt challenges
Authors: Wu Mingyu , Goh Kai Woon , Chaw Kam Heng , Koh Ye Sheng , Dares Marvin , Yeong Che Fai , Su Eileen L. M. , William Holderbaum , Zhang Yunhui
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a sophisticated intelligent predictive maintenance system for industrial conveyor belts powered by a random forest machine learning model. The random forest model was evaluated against established models such as logistic regression, neural networks, decision trees, and gradient boosting, demonstrating superior performance. The model achieved 100% accuracy in classifying gearbox lubricant levels and sprocket conditions, highlighting its potential for addressing critical challenges in predictive maintenance, such as avoiding unexpected downtime. However, further validation with larger datasets and varied operational environments is recommended to confirm robustness. This performance highlights its effectiveness in multiclass fault detection and overfitting mitigation, establishing a new standard in predictive maintenance technology. The system, enhanced by a comprehensive sensor array, not only adeptly captures but also intelligently analyzes critical operational data, providing proactive and data-driven insights for maintenance decision-making. This study not only affirms the dominance of the random forest model in predictive analytics but also underscores its pivotal role in optimizing maintenance strategies, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring the reliability of conveyor systems in industrial settings.
Unveiling the shared genes between systemic sclerosis and lung cancer
Authors: Pan Pengfei , Liu Xin , Wang Yun , Wang Huixuan , Xu Cheng , Lu Junhui
Published: December 2024

The risk of lung cancer is significantly increased in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), yet the specific genes underlying this association remain unexplored. Our study aims to identify genes shared by SSc and lung cancer. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from SSc and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) datasets (SSc: GSE95065, LUAD: GSE136043) in the GEO database. We found shared genes by intersecting top genes in protein–protein interaction networks by the STRING database. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was calculated for each shared gene in validation datasets (SSc: GSE231692; LUAD: GSE43458), identifying PRKG2 as the core shared gene. We used the UALCAN platform to assess PRKG2 expression in LUAD patients at various stages and lymph node metastasis states, and compared disease-free survival (DFS) between low and high PRKG2 expression LUAD groups. PRKG2 was overexpressed in A549 cells to study its impact on lung cancer cell proliferation and invasion in vitro. We identified seven shared genes (SCN7A, AGTR1, WIF1, PRKG2, LTF, AQP4, COL10A1), with the AUC for PRKG2 exceeding 0.93 in both diseases (SSc AUC = 0.973; LUAD AUC = 0.939). The PRKG2 expression levels of LUAD patients with different clinical stages and lymph node metastasis states were consistently lower than those observed in normal individuals. The DFS of LUAD patients in the high PRKG2 expression group was higher than that in the low expression group (p = 0.028). In vitro experiments confirmed elevated PRKG2 expression inhibits the proliferation and invasion of lung cancer cells. PRKG2 is one of the genes shared by SSc and lung cancer, affecting the proliferation and invasion of lung cancer cells.
Distinct chromosomal mutation associated with cefiderocol resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii: a combined bioinformatics and mass spectrometry approach to unveil and validate the in vivo-acquired chemoresistance
Authors: Morosi Lavinia , Golzato Davide , Bussini Linda , Guma Hygerda , Tordato Federica , Armanini Federica , Asif Zian , Carella Francesco , Morelli Paola , Bartoletti Michele , Da Rin Giorgio , Casari Erminia , Martano Giuseppe , Rescigno Maria , Segata Nicola , Carloni Sara , Cento Valeria
Published: December 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii is a significant public health concern due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains. Cefiderocol (FDC), a novel siderophore cephalosporin, has shown promise as a last-line treatment for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. However, the emergence of in vivo-acquired FDC-resistant A. baumannii strains highlights the need for advanced tools to identify resistance-associated genomic mutations and address the challenges of FDC susceptibility testing. This study aims to characterize a novel mutation responsible for FDC resistance in A. baumannii and to develop a workflow that integrates genomic and functional analyses for improved antimicrobial resistance monitoring. We examined two carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii isolates from bacteremia cases in two patients (A. baumannii_5406 from patient A and A. baumannii_5577 from patient B). Initial whole-genome sequence BLAST typing identified both as the same strain. However, a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) analysis showed that A. baumannii_5406 was resistant to FDC, while _5577 was not. Further variant calling analysis revealed a novel chromosomal mutation in a gene encoding a TonB-dependent receptor homolog, which is involved in ferric-siderophore and heme uptake. This mutation causes a premature stop codon, likely impairing the receptor’s function. Mass spectrometry confirmed that the FDC-resistant strain exhibited reduced antibiotic uptake and intracellular accumulation. This study demonstrates the utility of combining genomic and functional analyses to detect emerging mutations associated with antibiotic resistance. The variant calling approach, together with LC–MS/MS technology, offers a valuable complement to traditional susceptibility testing in clinical settings, potentially improving the identification and monitoring of FDC resistance in A. baumannii. Additionally, this workflow could aid in the epidemiological tracking of resistant strains.
Pseudomonas oryzihabitans D1-104/3 and P. gessardii C31-106/3 differentially modulate the antioxidative response of duckweed (Lemna minor L.) to salt stress
Authors: Popržen Tatjana , Antonić Reljin Dragana , Uzelac Branka , Milovančević Marija , Paunović Danijela , Trifunović-Momčilov Milana , Marković Marija , Raspor Martin , Nikolić Ivan , Stanković Slaviša , Radulović Olga
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The common duckweed (L. minor) is a model organism for investigation of plant physiology, especially stress-related responses. Its two physiological characteristics are of special interest: (1) salt-stressed duckweeds may accumulate starch, a precursor for biofuel; (2) duckweeds are associated with various beneficial (plant-growth promoting, PGP) bacterial strains. In this paper, we analyzed the role of two bacterial strains: Pseudomonas oryzihabitans D1-104/3 and P. gessardii C31-106/3 in regulation of duckweed's growth and antioxidative responses to salt (10 and 100 mM NaCl) and hypothesized that they alleviate salt-induced oxidative stress.

Methods

Fresh and dry weight, frond number, photosynthetic pigments, malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ascorbic acid (AsA), proline, total polyphenol (TPC) and starch content, as well as antioxidant capacity and antioxidant enzymatic activity were measured after 14 days. Fluorescence microscopy was used to visualize bacterial presence on duckweeds.

Results

Fluorescence microscope revealed that Pseudomonas bacteria colonized all duckweed surfaces. The doubling time of duckweeds inoculated with P. gessardii C31-106/3 was significantly longer. Additionally, at 0 and 10 mM NaCl, this strain decreased chlorosis in duckweeds. Moreover, P. gessardii C31-106/3 increased dry-to-fresh-weight ratio, proline, chlorophyll a, b and carotenoid content at 100 mM, as well as AsA content in plants in NaCl-free medium, while P. oryzihabitans D1-104/3 increased AsA at 100 mM NaCl. Both bacterial strains decreased lipid peroxidation, while P. gessardii C31-106/3 increased and P. oryzihabitans D1-104/3 decreased H2O2 content at 100 mM and 0 mM NaCl, respectively. Bacteria significantly increased TPC and antioxidant capacity at 100 mM NaCl, particularly P. oryzihabitans D1-104/3. After 14 days, the SOD and POX activities were at the same level in all samples. At 100 mM NaCl, CAT activity was increased in all plants.

Discussion

The results of this study show that two Pseudomonas strains had markedly different effects on duckweed: while P. oryzihabitans D1-104/3 supported growth, P. gessardii C31-106/3 prioritized salt stress tolerance in duckweeds.
Spinal cord injury: pathophysiology, possible treatments and the role of the gut microbiota
Authors: Pagan-Rivera Luis H. , Ocasio-Rivera Samuel E. , Godoy-Vitorino Filipa , Miranda Jorge D.
Published: December 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating pathological state causing motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction. To date, SCI remains without viable treatment for its patients. After the injury, molecular events centered at the lesion epicenter create a non-permissive environment for cell survival and regeneration. This newly hostile setting is characterized by necrosis, inflammation, demyelination, axotomy, apoptosis, and gliosis, among other events that limit locomotor recovery. This review provides an overview of the pathophysiology of SCI, highlighting the potential role of the gut microbiota in modulating the inflammatory response and influencing neurological recovery following trauma to the spinal cord. Emphasis on the bidirectional communication between the gut and central nervous system, known as the gut-brain axis is given. After trauma, the gut-brain/spinal cord axis promotes the production of pro-inflammatory metabolites that provide a non-permissive environment for cell survival and locomotor recovery. Therefore, any possible pharmacological treatment, including antibiotics and painkillers, must consider their effects on microbiome dysbiosis to promote cell survival, regeneration, and behavioral improvement. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the pathophysiology of SCI and the evolving understanding of the role of the gut microbiota in SCI, with implications for future research and clinical practice.
Emerging Aeromonas spp. infections in Europe: characterization of human clinical isolates from German patients
Authors: Schwartz Keike , Borowiak Maria , Strauch Eckhard , Deneke Carlus , Richter Martin H. ,   The German Aeromonas Study Group
Published: December 2024

Bacteria of the genus Aeromonas are widely distributed in water bodies around the world. Some Aeromonas species have been identified as human pathogens causing intestinal and a variety of extraintestinal infections. In Germany, information on diseases caused by Aeromonas is rare, because Aeromonas infections are not notifiable in Germany. To address this information gap and gain better insights, a successful collaboration with human medical diagnostic laboratories within Germany was established and several Aeromonas isolates from diseased patients were sent to the Aeromonas laboratory of the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment. 52 clinical Aeromonas isolates, of which anonymized patients’ data were available, were selected for further characterization by MALDI-TOF MS, biochemical testing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS). Nearly half of the isolates were from patients older than 60 years, whereas only four isolates were from patients aged up to 10 years. 30 isolates originated from stools of patients with diarrhea/(gastro-)enteritis and 22 strains were from patients with diverse extraintestinal infections, such as wound infection, septicemia, bursitis, abscesses, cholangitis, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. Taxonomical identification revealed following predominant species: A. veronii biovar sobria (18 isolates), A. caviae (17 isolates), and A. hydrophila (nine isolates). Two A. salmonicida isolates and one isolate each of A. dhakensis, A. bestiarum, and A. encheleia were also identified. Three closely related intestinal isolates could not be assigned to a recognized Aeromonas species. The clustering of strains based on virulence factor profile resulted in a grouping that closely resembles the clustering of the phylogenetic tree suggesting that the profiles are specific for each species. Our study on clinical Aeromonas isolates characterizes for the first time human pathogenic strains isolated in Germany. These bacteria are important microorganisms within the One Health context because of their ubiquitous presence in the environment and as a cause of opportunistic infections in humans and animals. Infections caused by Aeromonas bacteria show a seasonality with increased infection rates in warmer periods. In view of climate change, Aeromonas bacteria are regarded as emerging pathogens and research is required to determine the reservoirs in One Health sources from which human infections may arise.
The impact of interactions between heavy metals and smoking exposures on the formation of oral microbial communities
Authors: Zheng Qiwen , Zhang Yonghua , Li Jia , Pei Shuwei , Liu Jiangyun , Feng Lu , Zhang Li , Liu Xingrong , Luo Bin , Ruan Ye , Hu Weigang , Niu Jingping , Tian Tian
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The primary objective of our investigation was to assess the repercussions of prolonged exposure to heavy metals and smoking on the microbiome of the oral buccal mucosa. Concurrently, we aimed to elucidate the intricate interplay between external environmental exposures and the composition of the oral microbial ecosystem, thereby discerning its potential implications for human health.

Methods

Our study cohort was stratified into four distinct groups: MS (characterized by concurrent exposure to heavy metals and smoking), M (exposed solely to heavy metals), S (exposed solely to smoking), and C (comprising individuals serving as a control group). Specimens of buccal mucosa and blood were systematically acquired from the participants, facilitating subsequent microbial diversity analysis across the four oral buccal mucosa sample cohorts through 16S rRNA gene sequencing techniques. Simultaneously, blood samples were tested for heavy metal concentrations. In addition, we performed topological analyses by constructing microbial networks.

Results

Our findings notably indicate that co-exposure to heavy metals and smoking yielded a more pronounced alteration in the diversity of oral microflora when compared to singular exposures to either heavy metals or smoking. By comparing the oral bacterial communities and functional pathways between the four groups, we found significant differences in bacterial communities and functional pathways between the groups. Notably, the impact of heavy metal exposure overshadowed that of smoking, with concurrent exposure to heavy metals and smoking eliciting marginally greater effects than exposure to heavy metals alone. In addition, our analysis of the correlation between microbiota and blood heavy metal concentrations showed that the heavy metal cadmium (Cd) had a significantly greater effect on oral microbiota than other heavy metals.

Discussion

Chronic exposure to heavy metals and smoking disrupts the normal bacterial communities in the oral mucosa of residents of contaminated areas. This exposure reduces the complexity and stability of microbial networks and increases the risk of various diseases reduces the complexity and stability.
Recombinant avian metapneumovirus subtype C expressing HA protein of H9N2 avian influenza virus are stable and induce protection
Authors: Guo Yu , Cheng Jing , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Yuanyuan , Zuo Yuzhu , Liu Tao , Wang Yun , Yang Chun , Cheng Chunjie , Fan Jinghui , Jiang Haijun
Published: December 2024

To prevent H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) and Avian metapneumonovirus/C (aMPV/C) infections, we constructed recombinant aMPV/C viruses expressing the HA protein of H9N2 AIV. In addition, EGFP was inserted into the intermediate non-coding region of P-M protein in the aMPV/C genome using a reverse genetic system. The conditions for rescuing the recombinant virus were enhanced followed by insertion of the H9N2 AIV HA gene into the same location in the aMPV/C. The constructed recombinant virus raMPV/C-HA expressed the H9N2 AIV HA protein and showed good stability. Immunization of chicks with raMPV/C-HA increased the generation of neutralizing antibodies against aMPV and H9N2 AIV for 21 days. In the late challenge experiment, raMPV/C-HA effectively inhibited the replication of the virus in vivo, decreased the incidence of infection and conferred protection effects.
TP53 oncogenic variants as prognostic factors in individuals with glioblastoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Esperante Diego , Galicia Kena Daza , Rivas-Cuervo Kalu Gabriel , Cacho-Díaz Bernardo , Trejo-Becerril Catalina , Taja-Chayeb Lucia , Aboud Orwa , Carlos-Escalante José Alberto , Wegman-Ostrosky Talia
Published: December 2024

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the relationship between somatic TP53 oncogenic variants and prognosis, specifically with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in patients diagnosed with supratentorial glioblastoma.

Methods

We included longitudinal studies and clinical trials involving a minimum of 40 adult participants diagnosed with supratentorial glioblastoma, wherein the status of TP53 variants was assessed. We conducted searches in multiple databases. We assessed bias risk using a modified version of the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool, and the certainty of evidence was evaluated following the principles of the GRADE approach.

Results and conclusion

This study encompassed 23 papers involving 2,555 patients, out of which 716 had reported oncogenic variants. TP53 oncogenic variants were associated with a reduced likelihood of 1-year survival (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.29–0.94). However, our analysis did not reveal any significant impact of TP53 variants on overall survival, progression-free survival, or 2-year survival. Therefore, this comprehensive analysis demonstrates that the presence of genetic variants in TP53 does not provide useful information for the prognosis of glioblastoma.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42021289496.
The United States Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory Multi-Attribute Task Battery
Authors: Vogl Jonathan , McCurry Charles D. , Bommer Sharon , Atchley J. Andrew
Published: December 2024

The U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory (USAARL) Multi-Attribute Task Battery (MATB) represents a significant advancement in research platforms for human performance assessment and automation studies. The USAARL MATB builds upon the legacy of the traditional MATB, which has been refined over 30 years of use to include four primary aviation-like tasks. However, the USAARL MATB takes this foundation and enhances it to meet the demands of contemporary research, particularly in the areas of performance modeling, cognitive workload assessment, adaptive automation, and trust in automation. The USAARL MATB retains the four classic subtask types from its predecessors while introducing innovations such as subtask variations, dynamic demand transitions, and performance-driven adaptive automation handoffs. This paper introduces the USAARL MATB to the research community, highlighting its development history, key features, and potential applications.
Feasibility of large language models for CEUS LI-RADS categorization of small liver nodules in patients at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Jiayan , Yang Rui , Huang Xiaotong , Zeng Keyu , Liu Yan , Luo Jun , Lyshchik Andrej , Lu Qiang
Published: December 2024

Background

Large language models (LLMs) offer opportunities to enhance radiological applications, but their performance in handling complex tasks remains insufficiently investigated

Purpose

To evaluate the performance of LLMs integrated with Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (CEUS LI-RADS) in diagnosing small (≤20mm) hepatocellular carcinoma (sHCC) in high-risk patients.

Materials and Methods

From November 2014 to December 2023, high-risk HCC patients with untreated small (≤20mm) focal liver lesions (sFLLs), were included in this retrospective study. ChatGPT-4.0, ChatGPT-4o, ChatGPT-4o mini, and Google Gemini were integrated with imaging features from structured CEUS LI-RADS reports to assess their diagnostic performance for sHCC. The diagnostic efficacy of LLMs for small HCC were compared using McNemar test.

Results

The final population consisted of 403 high-risk patients (52 years ± 11, 323 men). ChatGPT-4.0 and ChatGPT-4o demonstrated substantial to almost perfect intra-agreement for CEUS LI-RADS categorization (κ values: 0.76-1.0 and 0.7-0.94, respectively), outperforming ChatGPT-4o mini (κ values: 0.51-0.72) and Google Gemini (κ values: -0.04-0.47). ChatGPT-4.0 had higher sensitivity in detecting sHCC than ChatGPT-4o (83%-89% vs. 70%-78%, p < 0.02) with comparable specificity (76%-90% vs. 83%-86%, p > 0.05). Compared to human readers, ChatGPT-4.0 showed superior sensitivity (83%-89% vs. 63%-78%, p < 0.004) and comparable specificity (76%-90% vs. 90%-95%, p > 0.05) in diagnosing sHCC.

Conclusion

LLM integrated with CEUS LI-RADS offers potential tool in diagnosing sHCC for high-risk patients. ChatGPT-4.0 demonstrated satisfactory consistency in CEUS LI-RADS categorization, offering higher sensitivity in diagnosing sHCC while maintaining comparable specificity to that of human readers.
Unexpected retinal fluid compartment responses with anti-VEGF therapy in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: a case report of four patients
Authors: Gilead Noa , Chong Yu Jeat , Ibrahim Farah N. I. , Sun Christopher , Teo Kelvin Y. C. , Cheung Chui Ming Gemmy
Published: December 2024

This case series describes responses to faricimab treatment in opposite directions in different fluid compartments in four patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Despite reductions in retinal fluid (SRF) and stable visual acuity following treatment, all patients developed retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) elevation. Over a 12–15 months follow-up, three patients exhibited a gradual decrease in RPE elevation, with one case resolving completely. These findings suggest that fluid compartments in PCV may respond differently to treatment and add to the understanding of PCV by highlighting the complex interplay between different retinal fluid compartments in response to treatment.
Proteomic study of the inhibitory effects of tannic acid on MRSA biofilm
Authors: Miao Yang , Shuang Wang , Qianwei Qu , Xin Liu , Wei Peng , Hai Yang , Yonghui Zhou , Xinbo Yu
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The mechanism of tannic acid (TA) intervention on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, USA 300) biofilm formation was explored using proteomics.

Methods

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of TA against the MRSA standard strain USA 300 was determined by two-fold serial dilution of the microbroth. The effects of TA were studied using crystal violet staining. The morphology of TA-treated USA 300 cells was observed by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were screened using proteomic and biological information analyses, and their transcriptional levels were verified using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The MIC of TA was 0.625 mg/mL, whereas 1/2 MIC (0.3125 mg/mL) of TA significantly inhibited biofilm formation without affecting the bacterial growth (p < 0.01) and prevented the formation of a complete three-dimensional biofilm structure. Using 1/2 MIC of TA, 208 DEPs were identified, of which 127 were upregulated and 81 were downregulated. The transcriptional levels of the genes corresponding to five randomly selected DEPs (glnA, ribD, clpB, gap, and lukE) were consistent with the proteomics data (p < 0.05). Bioinformatic analysis showed that the changes in the MRSA strains after TA intervention primarily involved pyrimidine and purine metabolisms, arginine biosynthesis, and the citric acid cycle.

Conclusion

TA exerts an antibacterial effect on MRSA and can be used as a potential candidate for the development of anti-biofilm drugs, thereby laying a foundation for the treatment of MRSA biofilm-induced infections.
Challenging directions in pediatric diabetes - the place of oxidative stress and antioxidants in systemic decline
Authors: Lupu Vasile Valeriu , Miron Ingrith , Trandafir Laura Mihaela , Jechel Elena , Starcea Iuliana Magdalena , Ioniuc Ileana , Frasinariu Otilia Elena , Mocanu Adriana , Petrariu Florin Dumitru , Danielescu Ciprian , Nedelcu Alin Horatiu , Salaru Delia Lidia , Revenco Ninel , Lupu Ancuta
Published: December 2024

Diabetes is a complex condition with a rising global incidence, and its impact is equally evident in pediatric practice. Regardless of whether we are dealing with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the development of complications following the onset of the disease is inevitable. Consequently, contemporary medicine must concentrate on understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms driving systemic decline and on finding ways to address them. We are particularly interested in the effects of oxidative stress on target cells and organs, such as pancreatic islets, the retina, kidneys, and the neurological or cardiovascular systems. Our goal is to explore, using the latest data from international scientific databases, the relationship between oxidative stress and the development or persistence of systemic damage associated with diabetes in children. Additionally, we highlight the beneficial roles of antioxidants such as vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, and other bioactive molecules; in mitigating the pathogenic cascade, detailing how they intervene and their bioactive properties. As a result, our study provides a comprehensive exploration of the key aspects of the oxidative stress-antioxidants-pediatric diabetes triad, expanding understanding of their significance in various systemic diseases.
Interplay of serum taurine, S-adenosylmethionine, and cysteine levels in cancer risk: a prospective study
Authors: Liu Chenan , Liu Tong , Wei Yaping , Shi Jinyu , Deng Li , Song Mengmeng , Shi Hanping
Published: December 2024

Background

Amino acids are known to play critical roles in cancer metabolism and progression. Among them, taurine, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), and cysteine have garnered particular attention due to their interconnected metabolic pathways. This study sought to explore the associations between serum levels of these amino acids and cancer risk within Chinese adults.

Methods

A nested case-control study was conducted within the China H-Type Hypertension Registry Study cohort, comprising 1,391 cancer cases and 1,391 matched controls. Serum concentrations of taurine, SAM, and cysteine were quantified, and their associations with cancer risk were evaluated using conditional logistic regression and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) models.

Results

A total of 1,391 pairs of participants were included in this study. Their average age was 69.3 years ± 7.77 years, and 56% were male. Higher serum taurine levels were associated with a reduced risk of overall cancer. In contrast, elevated serum SAM levels were linked to an increased risk of digestive cancers. The BKMR model identified complex interactions among these amino acids and showed a significant overall negative association between the combined effect of taurine, SAM, and cysteine and cancer risk.

Conclusion

Serum taurine levels may offer protective benefits against cancer, particularly for digestive cancers, while its metabolites do not have such significant benefits. The intricate interactions among taurine, SAM, and cysteine underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to understanding their roles in the metabolic processes that drive tumorigenesis.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=28262, identifier ChiCTR1800017274.
Insecticide resistance in the field populations of the Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus in Beijing: resistance status and associated detoxification genes
Authors: Zhou Xiaojie , Li Jing , Ni Ruoyao , Qiu Xinghui , Zhang Yong , Tong Ying
Published: December 2024

Background

Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) is an invasive and widespread mosquito species that can transmit dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika viruses. Its control heavily relies on the use of insecticides. However, the efficacy of the insecticide-based intervention is threatened by the increasing development of resistance to available insecticides. Understanding the current status and potential mechanisms of insecticide resistance is an important prerequisite for devising strategies to maintain the sustainability of vector control programs. In this study, we investigated the current status and probable candidate detoxification genes associated with insecticide resistance in the Asian tiger mosquito in Beijing, the capital city of China.

Methods

Bioassays were conducted on three field populations of Ae. albopictus collected from urban communities in Beijing by exposure to diagnostic doses of permethrin, deltamethrin, malathion, and propoxur. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with insecticide resistance were screened by transcriptomic analysis using Illumina RNA sequencing data (RNA-seq) from 12 independent RNA libraries constructed from female strains of the three field populations and one susceptible strain.

Results

The bioassay results indicated that all the three field populations were resistant to propoxur (carbamate), deltamethrin, and permethrin (pyrethroids), but susceptible to malathion (organophosphate). Eighteen (18) cytochrome P450s (P450s), five (5) glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), four (4) carboxy/cholinesterases (CCEs), eight (8) UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs), and three (3) ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABCs) were found to be significantly overexpressed in the three field populations relative to the susceptible strain via transcriptomic analysis.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the Ae. albopictus field populations in Beijing exhibit multiple phenotypic resistance to commonly used pyrethroids and carbamate. The identification of a number of DEGs associated with insecticide resistance indicates that the mechanisms underlying resistance in field populations are complicated, and detoxifying enzymes may play important roles. The multiple resistance status detected in the three field populations suggests that resistance management strategies such as insecticide rotation and non-chemical-based measures should be implemented in order to sustain effective control of the disease vector and vector-borne diseases.
Advancing crop improvement through GWAS and beyond in mung bean
Authors: Ahmed Syed Riaz , Asghar Muhammad Jawad , Hameed Amjad , Ghaffar Maria , Shahid Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Accessing the underlying genetics of complex traits, especially in small grain pulses is an important breeding objective for crop improvement. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) analyze thousands of genetic variants across several genomes to identify links with specific traits. This approach has discovered many strong associations between genes and traits, and the number of associated variants is expected to continue to increase as GWAS sample sizes increase. GWAS has a range of applications like understanding the genetic architecture associated with phenotype, estimating genetic correlation and heritability, developing genetic maps based on novel identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs)/genes, and developing hypotheses related to specific traits in the next generation. So far, several causative alleles have been identified using GWAS which had not been previously detected using QTL mapping. GWAS has already been successfully applied in mung bean (Vigna radiata) to identify SNPs/alleles that are used in breeding programs for enhancing yield and improvement against biotic and abiotic factors. In this review, we summarize the recently used advanced genetic tools, the concept of GWAS and its improvement in combination with structural variants, the significance of combining high-throughput phenotyping and genome editing with GWAS, and also highlights the genetic discoveries made with GWAS. Overall, this review explains the significance of GWAS with other advanced tools in the future, concluding with an overview of the current and future applications of GWAS with some recommendations.
Advancements and future perspectives in nutrient film technique hydroponic system: a comprehensive review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Palmitessa Onofrio Davide , Signore Angelo , Santamaria Pietro
Published: December 2024

In the context of climate change, reducing the environmental impact of agriculture has become increasingly critical. To ensure sustainable food production, it is essential to adopt cultivation techniques that maximize resource efficiency, particularly in water and nutrient usage. The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is one such hydroponic system, designed to optimize water and nutrient use, making it a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture. This bibliometric review examines the evolution of NFT research from 1977 to 2023, focusing on the growing interest in this method as a solution to the agricultural challenges posed by climate change. Through the analysis of 774 scientific documents, this review highlights an upward trend in NFT-related studies, with a noticeable shift from conference proceedings to peer-reviewed journal articles, particularly in recent years. Acta Horticulturae has been a leading journal in this field, underscoring the significance of early conference contributions. Lettuce and tomatoes have emerged as the primary crops studied in NFT systems, demonstrating the technique’s broad applicability. Research on lettuce has primarily focused on nitrate accumulation and biofortification, aiming to improve both the nutritional quality and safety of the crop. Studies on tomatoes have explored challenges related to oxygen concentration in the nutrient solution, where innovations such as the Nutrient Drip Technique (NDT) and the New Growing System (NGS) have shown promise in addressing these issues. Other key areas of NFT research include the effects of water salinity on crop growth and the integration of NFT with aquaponics systems, highlighting its potential for sustainable, water-efficient crop production. However, challenges such as nutrient imbalances and disease management persist. This review underscores the growing relevance of NFT in the pursuit of environmentally sustainable agriculture. Continued innovation and research are essential to optimizing nutrient management, refining environmental controls, and exploring new crop varieties, thereby enhancing the potential of NFT for sustainable farming systems.
Digital leaders: political leadership in the digital age
Authors: Villaplana F. Ramón , Fitzpatrick Jasmin
Published: December 2024

This paper delves into the concept of digital leadership in contemporary democracies, considering the impact of the digital age on politics and, consequently, on political leadership. In our view, with the spread of radio stations first, then televisions, and finally the web, leadership has evolved through three great stages: broadcast, telegenic and digital. The web, and social media in special, have reshaped democracies and political interactions both at macro, meso, and micro levels. With Obama as forefather and across different political ideologies, a new generation of politicians as Beppe Grillo, Justin Trudeau, Giorgia Meloni or Sanna Marin, among others, shows how leaders are adapting to a highly digitalized political environment. As we understand it, leaders with good digital media abilities need to excel in three skills –presence, interaction and engagement– and would have two main attributes: reliability and relatability. We also consider that the digitalization of leadership deepens the personalization and presidentialization phenomena in politics and under certain circumstances may provide cases of so-called hyper-leadership more frequently.
Burnout Assessment Tool for Students (BAT-S): evidence of validity in a Chilean sample of undergraduate university students
Authors: Carmona-Halty Marcos , Alarcón-Castillo Karina , Semir-González Carla , Sepúlveda-Páez Geraldy , Schaufeli Wilmar B.
Published: December 2024

This brief report examines both within-network and between-network construct validity of the Burnout Assessment Tool for Students (BAT-S) in a sample of 461 Chilean undergraduate university students (70.9% female) ranging between 18 and 58 years old (M = 21.6, SD = 4.34). The reliability analysis results showed adequate internal consistency for the overall burnout score and for each dimension. In addition, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported a second-order factor (academic burnout) and four first-order factors (exhaustion, mental distance, cognitive impairment, and emotional impairment) solution. Moreover, the results of multiple-group CFA supported gender invariance. Finally, structural equation model (SEM) analysis showed that academic resources and academic demands are associated with academic burnout. Overall, the BAT-S was found to be a reliable and valid tool to assess academic burnout in chilean sample of undergraduate university students.
Transformers deep learning models for missing data imputation: an application of the ReMasker model on a psychometric scale
Authors: Casella Monica , Milano Nicola , Dolce Pasquale , Marocco Davide
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Missing data in psychometric research presents a substantial challenge, impacting the reliability and validity of study outcomes. Various factors contribute to this issue, including participant non-response, dropout, or technical errors during data collection. Traditional methods like mean imputation or regression, commonly used to handle missing data, rely upon assumptions that may not hold on psychological data and can lead to distorted results.

Methods

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of transformer-based deep learning for missing data imputation, comparing ReMasker, a masking autoencoding transformer model, with conventional imputation techniques (mean and median imputation, Expectation–Maximization algorithm) and machine learning approaches (K-nearest neighbors, MissForest, and an Artificial Neural Network). A psychometric dataset from the COVID distress repository was used, with imputation performance assessed through the Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) between the original and imputed data matrices.

Results

Results indicate that machine learning techniques, particularly ReMasker, achieve superior performance in terms of reconstruction error compared to conventional imputation techniques across all tested scenarios.

Discussion

This finding underscores the potential of transformer-based models to provide robust imputation in psychometric research, enhancing data integrity and generalizability.