bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex Interplay Between Metabolism and CD4 + T cell Activation, Differentiation and Function: A Novel Perspective for Atherosclerosis Immunotherapy
Authors: xu danyan , Yang Jingmin , Chen Yanying , Li Xiao , Qin Huali , Bao Jinghui , Wang Chunfang , Dong Xiaochen
Published: January 2024

Atherosclerosis is a complex pathological process that is based on the
chronic inflammatory reaction of the blood vessel wall and involves
various immune cells and cytokines. The imbalance in the proportion and
function of effector CD4 T cell (Teff) and
regulatory T cell (Treg) subsets is an important cause of the occurrence
and development of atherosclerotic plaques. Teff cells depend on
glycolytic metabolism and glutamine catabolic metabolism, while Treg
cells mainly rely on fatty acid oxidation (FAO) for energy, which is
crucial for determining the fate of CD4 T cell
differentiation and maintaining their respective immune functions. Here,
we review recent research achievements in the field of immunometabolism
related to CD4 T cell, focusing on the cellular
metabolic pathways and metabolic reprogramming involved in the
activation, proliferation and differentiation of CD4
T cell. Subsequently, we discuss the important roles of mTOR and AMPK
signaling in regulating the fate of CD4 T cell
differentiation. Finally, we evaluate the links between CD4
T cell metabolism and atherosclerosis, highlighting
the potential of targeted modulation of CD4 T cell
metabolism in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis in the
future.
Recent Advances Based on BiVO4 Heterojunction as Efficient Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation: A Minireview
Authors: He Dongqing , Wang Qi , Liu Xiaodong , Zhang Weijun , Cui Xianghong
Published: January 2024

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting has attracted strong interest
as sustainable technology by converting solar energy into hydrogen. The
semiconductor photoelectrodes play an important role to crease the
solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency. Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) is an
excellent candidates as a photoanode material for PEC water oxidation
because of its visible light absorption, suitable band edge location,
high stability and low cost. However, single BiVO4 may undergo short
carrier diffusion length, rapid recombination of photoinduced charge
carriers and photocorrosion. Heterojunction strategy established by two
or more materials has provided an outstanding scheme to mitigate these
inadequacies. This review focuses on recent important works with respect
to BiVO4 heterojunction photoanodes for PEC water oxidation reactions,
including interface junction and surface functional junction. In the
end, the challenges and prospects for future research on BiVO4
heterojunction photoanodes in solar-to-hydrogen application field are
proposed.
Assessment of Interactions Between Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Parents in Terms of Emotional Availability
Authors: Gullu Belgin Ustun , Oztop Didem , Aydin Eda Umutlu , Ors Baris , Uytun Merve Cikili , Yürümez Esra
Published: January 2024

In this study, we aimed to assess the interactions of mothers and
fathers with their children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD), and compare the fathers and mothers in terms of emotional
availability. Children, who applied to the Infant Mental Health Unit
between January 2019-March 2021 and diagnosed with ASD, and their
parents without any clinical diagnosis were included. The study was
conducted with a total of 64 infants, 41 (64.1%) boys and 23 (35.9%)
girls aged 7-60 months. According to the results obtained, it was
determined that the mothers were more sensitive and better in
structuring the content of play compared with the fathers. It was noted
that the fathers were more hostile than the mothers. The results
obtained were discussed in the literature.
A narrative review of gait characteristics and development in pediatric populations with visual disorders: where do we stand and where are we going?
Authors: Montagnani Eleonora , Bradley Holly , Smith Beth
Published: January 2024

Understanding gait characteristics and development in pediatric
populations with visual disorders is crucial to identify early walking
impairment and to promote optimal motor performance. We reviewed
existing literature to identify gait patterns, development and
differences between infants and children with visual disorders. Children
who were blind showed differences in gait compared to low-vision or full
sight peers. Differences were identified across ages with slower
walking, postural, head, and trunk position alterations, uncoordinated
and reduced upper limb swing motions observed in children with
blindness. Children who were blind used a wider base of support, more
external rotation of the feet and took less steps per minute. There are
no studies reporting gait characteristics in early stages of walking
development, scarcity of longitudinal investigations, and different
variables to measure gait. These prevented the establishment of gait
development trajectories in pediatric populations with visual disorders.
This review is the first summarizing existing knowledge of gait
characteristics in children with visual disorders, advancing
understanding of key differences in gait patterns observed in this
population. This information can inform future studies in the field,
increasing knowledge of gait development in infants and children with
visual disorders.
Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl extract ameliorates ulcerative colitis via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Tong Xiao , Chen Li , He Shijun , Liu Shuangshuang , Yao Jiaying , Shao Zhenguang , Ye Yang , Yao Sheng , Lin Zemin , Zuo Jianping
Published: January 2024

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease
caused by abnormal immune system reactions resulting in inflammation and
ulcers in the large intestine. Phillygenin (PHI) is a natural compound
found in Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, known for its various
bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and
antipyretic activities. However, the potential anti-inflammatory effects
of PHI on UC and its underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood.
Methods: In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of PHI
on acute UC induced by DSS and TNBS. We evaluated the effects of PHI on
disease activity index, body weight, mortality, intestinal mucosal
barrier, cytokine secretion, and macrophage infiltration into colon
tissue using various techniques such as flow cytometry,
immunofluorescence, ELISA, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. Results: Our
findings revealed that PHI has therapeutic properties in UC treatment.
PHI was able to maintain body weight, reduce disease activity index and
mortality, restore the intestinal mucosal barrier, and inhibit cytokine
secretion. Flow cytometry assay and immunofluorescence indicated that
PHI reduces macrophage infiltration into colon tissue. Additionally,
both in vivo and in vitro results suggested that PHI may exert
anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB
pathway, inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Conclusion: In
conclusion, PHI possesses anti-inflammatory properties and has the
potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of UC. Our study
provides insights into the underlying mechanisms of PHI’s therapeutic
effects and highlights the potential for further research in developing
PHI-based treatments for UC.
Combined use of Total Glucosides of Paeony and Hydroxychloroquine in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: zhang Aiping , Chen Shilei , Lin Riyang
Published: January 2024

Objective: To assess the effectiveness and safety of the total
glucosides of paeony (TGP) combined with Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) on the
treatment of primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) by conducting a
meta-analysis. Methods: Eight databases were searched for randomized
controlled trials reporting the use of TGP combined with HCQ for pSS,
which are before May 10,2022. Meta analyses were performed on
disappeared clinical symptoms (dry mouth, dry eyes),schirmer’s test,
saliva flow test, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), index of
immunoglobulin G(IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin A (IgA),
and adverse events (AEs). The Revman 5.4 software was used for this
Meta-analysis.Results: Seven RCTs which included 632 participants were
identified.The pooled results showed significant differences in clinical
symptoms disappear(dry mouth, dry eyes)(P=0.0004), IgM(P <
0.00001) , IgA(P < 0.00001) , salivary flow rate(P <
0.00001) and schirmer’s test(p=0.02) in the comparison of TGP combined
with HCQ and HCQ alone. For the IgG and ESR, both pooled and subgroup
analyses showed that TGP+HCQ was superior to HCQ alone. For the safety
analysis, no significant differences in AEs(P=0.39) was revealed. The
more frequently seen adverse reactions were diarrhea, vomit and there
was no severe adverse events were reported in TGP+HCQ group. Conclusion:
Therefore, TGP+HCQ can be considered to be a potentially valid and safe
combination for the treatment of pSS in the clinic.
Psammogeton ranimagotrae sp. nov. (Apiaceae) a new species from Jammu and Kashmir, India
Authors: Bhellum B. L.
Published: January 2024

A new species of Psammogeton (Apiaceae) found in Samba district of Jammu
and Kashmir, India, is described and illustrated. It is similar to
Psammogeton canescens of this genus but differing from it in having
noticeably radical leaves, deeply ternate leave with acuminate apex, an
elongated stylopodium, and fruits hairs that are over three times longer
than they are wide. Together with the images, a distribution map,
comparison of closely related Psammogeton canescens with comparable
morphologies and phenologies, and a key are included.
Dendritic active T cells and mediate inflammation in smoke inhalation injury mouse models
Authors: Gan Chunxia , Li Jiaqi , Xu Bin , Liao Xincheng , Fu Zhonghua , Zeng Xiaoping , Liu Mingzhuo , Wang Hongmei , Guo Guanghua
Published: January 2024

Acute pulmonary and systemic inflammation induced by smoke inhalation is
crucial to the outcome and complications of burn patient, and immune
dysfunction is implicated in the development of organ injury. To reveal
the immune cytokines change and immune cell interactions is helpful to
know the immune response following smoke inhalation injury. We were
analyzing hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of the lung tissues of Smoke
inhalation mouse model, and detect the immune cytokine expression after
2,6,24,48,72 hours by The Real-Time qPCR. Flow cytometry was used to
identify the expression of DC cells, T cells in the spleen, bone marrow
derived-dendritic cells (BMDCs) and respective subtypes at 48h post
inhalation. CCK-8 detected at the level of BMDCs on T cell proliferation
in a mixed lymphocyte response. Smoke inhalation induced inflammation as
evidenced by the significantly altered inflammatory constituent,
including inflammatory cytokines and factors such as TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2,
IL-4, RAGE, TLR4 and HMGB1, as well as inflammatory cells such as
dendritic cells, regulatory T cells and BMDCs. Further research on BMDCs
revealed that after smoke exposure, there was an increased expression of
co-stimulatory molecules, such as CD80 and MHC-II, which aided T cell
proliferation. We found that cytokines and immune cells get activation
after smoke inhalation in the mouse model, and the activated BMDCs
prompt the proliferation of normal T cells.
Endolithic algae ( Ostreobium ) diversity in Porites corals at the Western Atlantic and Eastern Tropical Pacific
Authors: Sánchez Juan , Giraldo-Vaca Juan Sebastián
Published: January 2024

Ostreobium comprise endolithic algae commonly seen in conjunction
with scleractinian corals. In the past, it was solely recognized as a
coral skeleton bioeroder. Yet, their relationship with corals is
critical because they give photosynthetic byproducts and help the coral
when it loses its primary symbionts due to stress. The variety of these
algae among coral species of the genus Porites in the tropical
easter Pacific and western Atlantic was investigated here. We extracted
Ostreobium samples from seven Porites species including
two from the Tropical Easter Pacific-TEP ( P. panamensis, P.
lobata) and five from the Caribbean (P . furcata, P. porites, P.
colonensis, P. branneri, and P. astreoides). We also compared
the new rbcL sequences from algae found within various coral
species from other parts of the world. A biogeographic analysis and two
methodologies, PTP (Poisson tree process) and GMYC (General Mixed
Yule-Coalescent), were used to delineate the different species. The
findings revealed a significant degree of genetic diversity within
Ostreobium, with more than 15 groups of no more than three
individuals and 40 individual lineages. Its origins date back to the
Ordovician, 500 Ma, and it does not appear to preserve host-specificity.
The sampled locations include a wide variety of Ostreobium still,
biogeographically, varied patterns were confirmed, making it impossible
to pinpoint the precise origins of most clades. The ancestry analyses
revealed convergent events for the emergence of Ostreobium in a
few genera of local corals, but the phenomenon also occurred in genera
from far-off places.
An Steganography-based Triple Layered Image Data Hiding Using Visual Cryptography
Authors: Kukreja Bhawna , Malik Sanjay
Published: January 2024

An intentional alteration of data stored in a computer through
the use of malicious code is a cyber-attack, that exploits networks and
computer systems. The data may be compromised and this may have
disruptive implications. Cyberattacks can lead to two cybercrimes:
information theft and identity theft. Extreme care must be taken to
protect sensitive data. Cryptography and steganography are used to
protect private information being delivered through a risky channel.
These techniques don’t have much power on their own. Combining the two
allows us to conceal information. In this paper, we proposed an image
data-hiding technique that uses steganographic method along with visual
cryptography to provide better security to the images. Even though
extensive research work has been done previously, but most of the
research works did not provide adequate security to the images even
after its encryption. The method proposed in this paper is capable of
hiding some secret message in the least significant bits of the original
image, thereby hiding the secret message in a way to make its detection
difficult. We, then apply visual cryptography algorithms to the
resulting secret image. Thereby, creating shares of the secret image,
which are noise-like structures. The proposed method hides these shares
in the least significant bits of different images so as to create three
levels of security for the message. The main motive of the proposed work
is to combine the use of data-hiding techniques, steganography, and
visual cryptography, for designing a more secure algorithm so that the
security, reliability, and efficiency of secret messages can be
improved. At last, we implement the designed framework using Matlab
simulation
Investigation of the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in hospitalized Covid-19 patients and its association with disease severity, outcome, and mortality
Authors: Aghsaeifard Ziba , siyahkali Saeid Reza JamaliMoghaddam , Zendehdel Abolfazl , Asoodeh Azadeh , Bidkhori Mohammad , Nuhu Muhammad Abubakar
Published: January 2024

Background: In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of vitamin
D deficiency in hospitalized Covid-19 patients and demonstrate its
association with severity and mortality of the disease. Methods: This
observational study at Ziaeian Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Of all confirmed
Covid-19 patients who were admitted to this hospital 276 patients were
enrolled in this study and divided into two groups; 145 patients in
group1 with a serum 25(OH)D level >20 ng/ml and 131
patients in group 2 with a serum 25 (OH)D level =<20 ng/ml.
The severity, outcome, and mortality of Covid-19 disease were compared
in these two groups, based on chest CT scans findings, laboratory data,
and patient’ vital signs on admission day, and the duration of
hospitalization, requirement to ICU admission, need for intubation, and
mortality. Results: The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 22.1 %,
and vitamin D insufficiency by definition of serum 25(OH)D levels 12-20
ng/ml was 25.4%. Despite, an increase in serum levels of CPK, Ferritin,
LDH, CRP, D-dimer, AST, and ALT, there was not any significant
relationship between serum level of 25(OH)D with laboratory tests, chest
CT scan scores, and patient’s vital signs on admission day by univariate
and multivariate analysis. The odds of incidence of ICU admission,
mechanical ventilation, and mortality were higher in group 2 which was
not statistically significant by univariate and multivariate analysis,
but the mortality was significantly higher in subgroup 2 by multivariate
regression analysis. Conclusions: This study showed that vitamin D
deficiency was associated with a higher mortality rate, while could not
show any significant association between serum 25(OH)D levels with the
incidence of ICU admission, need for mechanical ventilation, and length
of hospital stay, also we did not find any significant relationship with
laboratory tests, radiologic findings, and patient’s vital signs on
admission day.
First-ever Marburg virus disease outbreak in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania: an imminent crisis in West and East Africa.
Authors: Sibomana Olivier , Kubwimana Emmanuel
Published: January 2024

The Marburg virus, which is a member of the same virus family as the
Ebola virus called Filoviridae, causes the severe infectious disease
known as Marburg Virus Disease (MVD). Previously, different outbreaks of
MVD have appeared in different African countries, including Ghana,
Guinea, Uganda, Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, and
South Africa. For the first time, Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania are
experiencing MVD outbreaks. A total of 15 laboratory-confirmed cases of
MVD and 23 probable cases have been reported in Equatorial Guinea since
the confirmation of the outbreak on 13 February 2023. The first MVD
outbreak in the United Republic of Tanzania was formally confirmed by
the Ministry of Health on March 21, 2023. As of 22 March, there were
eight cases and five fatalities (case fatality ratio [CFR]: 62.5%).
Due to the facts that Ebebiyin and Nsock Nsomo districts, the affected
regions of Equatorial Guinea, borders Cameroon and Gabon, and Kagera
region, the affected region of Tanzania, borders Uganda, Rwanda and
Burundi, there is fear of cross-border spread of MVD due to cross-border
migrations, and this can be a great crisis in West and East Africa.
Although there are currently outbreaks of MVD in Equatorial Guinea and
Tanzania, there is currently no proof of an epidemiological connection
between the two outbreaks. The aim of this paper is to describe Marburg
Virus Disease (MVD), describe its first outbreak in Equatorial Guinea
and Tanzania, explain the efforts being used and the challenges being
faced in MVD mitigation, and recommend different measures to be taken to
cope with the outbreak of MVD in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania.
SRS 16-86 attenuation of ferroptosis and promotion of recovery in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Qiao Yingchun , Sun Chao , Kan Shunli , He Lu , Wang Yawen , Gao Huajun , Zhang Yingying , Cheng You , Wang Shuai , Zhao Long , Niu Wenyan
Published: January 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus
and cell death is a key issue in DN. Ferroptosis is a recently
discovered type of iron-dependent cell death and different from other
kinds of cell death including apoptosis and necrosis. However,
ferroptosis has not been described in the context of DN. This study was
to explore the role of ferroptosis in the DN pathophysiology and to
explore the efficacy of ferroptosis inhibitor SRS 16-86 on DN. The STZ
injection was used to establish the DM and DN animal models. We detected
the levels of iron, reactive oxygen species, and ferroptosis-specific
markers in a rat DN model to investigate whether there was ferroptosis
in the process of DN. The hematoxylin-eosin staining, blood
biochemistry, urine biochemistry and the of function kidney were used to
evaluate the efficacy of ferroptosis inhibitor-SRS 16-86 in repairing
DN. We found that SRS 16-86 could improve the recovery of renal function
after DN by improving the antiferroptosis factors glutathione peroxidase
4, glutathione, and system Xc-light chain and could lower the lipid
peroxidation marker and 4-hydroxynonenal. SRS 16-86 treatment may
improve the structure of renal organization after DN. Inflammatory
cytokines-interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor α, and intercellular
adhesion molecule 1 were decreased significantly following SRS 16-86
treatment after DN. Results indicate that there is a strong connection
between ferroptosis and the pathological mechanism of DN. The validity
of SRS 16-86, a ferroptosis inhibitor in DN repair, supports its
potential as a new therapeutic target for DN.
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Oral N-acetylcysteine in Patients With COVID-19 Receiving the Routine Antiviral and Hydroxychloroquine Protocol: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Atefi Najmolsadat , Goodarzi Azadeh , riahi taghi , khodabandehloo niloofar , talebitaher mahshid , nobari niloofar najar , seirafianpour farnoosh , mahdi zeinab , baghestani amir , valizadeh rohollah
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT The current absence of gold-standard or all-aspect favorable
therapies for COVID-19 renders a focus on multipotential drugs proposed
to prevent or treat this infection or ameliorate its signs and symptoms
vitally important. The present well-designed randomized controlled trial
sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of N-acetylcysteine as
adjuvant therapy in hospitalized Iranian patients with COVID-19. Four
different diets in 60 patients include; Kaletra (lopinavir/ritonavir) +
hydroxychloroquine with/without N-acetylcysteine (600 mg TDS) and
atazanavir/ritonavir + hydroxychloroquine with/without N-acetylcysteine
(600 mg TDS), were administered in the study. At the end of the study, a
further decrease in C-reactive protein was observed in groups with
N-acetylcysteine (P =0.008), and no death occurred in the
atazanavir/ritonavir + hydroxychloroquine + N-acetylcysteine group,
showing that the combination of these drugs may reduce mortality. A
significant rise in O2 saturation was observed in
atazanavir/ritonavir+hydroxychloroquine+N-acetylcysteine group (P
<0.05). Accordingly, oral or intravenous N-acetylcysteine, may
enhance O2 saturation, blunt the inflammation trend (by reducing
C-reactive protein), and reduce mortality in hospitalized patients with
COVID-19. The N-acetylcysteine could be more effective as prophylactic
or adjuvant therapy in stable and non-severe cases of COVID-19 with a
particularly positive role in the augmentation of O2 saturation and
faster reduction of the CRP level and inflammation.
Identification of predictive biomarkers of response to treatment in patients with antibody mediated rejection: a case –control proteomics study
Authors: Nafar Mohsen , Samavat Shiva , Kalantari Shiva , Foster Leonard , Moon Kyung-Mee , Dalili Nooshin , Heidari somaye
Published: January 2024

Background: Timely detection and appropriate treatment of Acute antibody
mediated rejection (AMR) would affect long-term survival of allograft.
This study was designed to discover non-invasive biomarkers in
prediction of response to therapy in AMR patients. Material and methods:
in this case- control study, urine samples of 21 biopsy proven AMR
patients were were subjected to proteomics with label free
quantification. Patients were allocated into two groups of responders
and non- responders to treatment. Urine proteins were identified and
their expressions were compared in two groups in order to discover
potential candidate biomarkers. Results: From 1020 identified proteins,
257 proteins were differentially expressed between groups among them 153
and 104 proteins increased and decreased in non- responder patients
respectively. Complement pathway was more active in non-responders than
responders and, extracellular matrix proteins were mainly reduced in
non-responders. IGFBP-6 were determined as the most sensitive and
specific biomarker in prediction of non-responder patients. Conclusion:
According to the role of IGFBP-6 in apoptosis induction and tubular
damage, up-regulation of this protein could be a good predictor of
response to treatment in AMR patients and treatment approach could be
determined based on IGFBP_6 changes. Further studies are needed to
confirm these findings.
Comprehensive Profiling of the Human Fecal Proteome from IBD Patients with DIA-MS Enables Evaluation of Disease-Relevant Proteins
Authors: Harder Brandon , Lekkerkerker Annemarie , Casavant Ellen , Hackney Jason , Nguyen Allen , McBride Jacqeline , Mathews W. Rodney , Anania Veronica
Published: January 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis (UC)
and Crohn’s disease (CD), is characterized by chronic gastrointestinal
inflammation. A high unmet need exists for non-invasive biomarkers in
IBD to detect mucosal inflammation to monitor changes in disease
severity and guide treatment decisions. Fecal proteomics has the
potential to allow frequent, non-invasive monitoring of biomarkers in
stool of IBD patients, however the fecal proteome remains under
explored. Here a data-independent acquisition LC-MS/MS approach was used
to profile the human fecal proteome in two independent cohorts of IBD
patients and healthy controls (HC) to identify non-invasive biomarkers
reflective of disease activity. 688 human proteins were quantified, with
523 measured in both cohorts. In UC stool 96 proteins were
differentially abundant and in CD stool 126 proteins were differentially
abundant compared to HC stool (absolute log2 fold change
>1, p-value <0.05). Many of these fecal proteins
are associated with infiltrating immune cells and ulceration/rectal
bleeding, which are hallmarks of IBD pathobiology. Mapping of the
identified fecal proteins to a whole blood single-cell RNA sequencing
data set revealed the involvement of various immune cell subsets to the
IBD fecal proteome. Findings from this study not only confirmed the
presence of established fecal biomarkers for IBD, such as calprotectin
and lactoferrin, but also revealed new fecal proteins from multiple
pathways known to be dysregulated in IBD. These novel proteins could
serve as potential non-invasive biomarkers to monitor specific aspects
of IBD disease activity which could expedite clinical development of
novel therapeutic targets.
Dactyloctenium ruderalis (Poaceae), a new species from Jammu and Kashmir, India
Authors: Bhellum B. L. , Singh Kanwaljeet , Gairola Sumeet
Published: January 2024

A new species of Dactyloctenium (Poaceae) from Jammu and Kashmir
is described and illustrated. Among Indian species of
Dactyloctenium, the new D. ruderalis is closely related to
the only previously known D. aristatum in the region by being
non-stoloniferorous. Among others, distinctive characteristics of much
taller; peduncle length and bearded curved apex; unequal glumes; ovate
lemma; palea wingless and grain striations are features supporting the
proposed new species. A thorough description illustrations, photo plates
and a key to related species are provided to aid in its identification
and differentiation.
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH IMPROVED OUTCOMES IN THE FIRST PSYCHOTIC EPISODE AT A SPECIALIZED OUTPATIENT CLINIC IN NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL
Authors: Almeida Isabela de Fatima Pina de , Vilar Aldo Ferreira Castello Branco , Júnior Benjamim Figueiredo Braga Pires , Marques Rodrigo Coelho , Machado Leonardo
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate data from patients
admitted to the first-episode psychotic (FEP) outpatient clinic at the
Hospital of Clinics of the Federal University of Pernambuco from July
2018 to July 2021, seeking to identify factors related to better
clinical outcomes. Methods: This study was conducted using a convenience
sample, including all patients between 15 and 65 years of age who were
admitted to the FEP outpatient clinic from July 2018 to July 2021.
Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using mean and standard
deviation or median and interquartile range for continuous quantitative
variables, and absolute number/percentage for qualitative variables.
Paired T-test, a parametric test, was used to compare PANSS scores upon
admission and after 6 months. Spearman’s correlation test was employed
to assess the correlation between duration of untreated psychosis (DUP)
and treatment response with other variables. Results: The sample
consisted of 85.3% male individuals, with 50% of patients aged between
19-30 years, and 82% residing in the metropolitan area of Recife.
Seventy percent of patients responded to the treatment implemented by
the outpatient clinic, and only 30% required psychiatric
hospitalization within 6 months of follow-up. The majority of patients
had a history of psychoactive substance use (82.4%); however, the use
of these substances did not impact the prognosis within the analyzed
sample. The median DUP was 4 weeks, and a shorter DUP was associated
with a lower probability of psychiatric hospitalization and a greater
treatment response (reduction >50% in PANSS). Conclusion:
A shorter DUP was associated with a lower likelihood of psychiatric
hospitalization and a greater treatment response. Furthermore, the
specialized early psychosis outpatient clinic itself appears to yield
positive outcomes, as 70% of the treated patients exhibited a positive
treatment response.
“It bothers me a lot and it is difficult to ensure my children’s safety”: a phenomenological study on child safety in a coastal slum community in the western region of Ghana.
Authors: MAF Boadu , B Weobong
Published: January 2024

Children living in coastal areas are particularly exposed to hazardous
environments yet there is little research emanating from low and
middle-income countries to unravel the concept of child safety and its
implications for growth and development. A phenomenological study was
conducted with twenty parents living in a coastal slum area in the
Western Region of Ghana. Parents in this fishing community reported
feeling bothered about significant threats to the safety of their
children but also admitted serious challenges with maintaining the
safety of their children. Well-designed safety-promoting behaviour
change interventions are needed in such communities.
RNAi Library Screening Reveals Gβ 1 , Casein Kinase 2α and ICAP-1 as Novel Regulators of LFA-1-mediated T-cell Polarity and Migration
Authors: Freeley Michael , Happ-Hoff Antje , Dempsey Eugene , Dunican Dara , Bennett Emily , Davies Anthony Mitchell , Kelleher Dermot , Long Aideen
Published: January 2024

The α β integrin LFA-1 plays a key
role in T-cell adhesion to the endothelial vasculature and migration
into both secondary lymphoid organs and peripheral tissues via
interactions with its target protein ICAM-1. Although members of the
chemokine family of G-protein coupled receptors and heterotrimeric G
proteins are known to influence LFA-1 activation and ICAM binding, the
role of these receptors and their downstream effectors has not been
fully characterised. In addition, a number of kinases are activated in
response to LFA-1/ICAM-1 signalling in T-cells but the extent to which
the kinome influences T-cell migration is not fully understood. In this
study we screened two RNAi libraries targeting G protein-coupled
receptors (GPCR)/GPCR-associated proteins and kinases in a HuT-78 T-cell
line model of LFA-1-stimulated T cell migration. Based on staining of
the actin cytoskeleton, multiple parameters to measure cell morphology
were used to assess the contribution of 1109 genes to LFA-1-mediated T
cell polarity and migration. These RNAi screens identified a number of
both novel and previously identified genes that either increased or
decreased the polarity and migratory capacity of these cells. Following
multiparametric analysis, hierarchical clustering and pathway analysis,
three of these genes were characterised in further detail using primary
human T-cells, revealing novel roles for the heterotrimeric G protein
subunit Gβ1 and casein kinase 2 in LFA-1-mediated T-cell polarity and
migration in-vitro. Our studies also highlighted a new role for ICAP-1,
an adaptor protein previously described to be associated with β1
integrins, in β2 integrin LFA-1-directed migration in T-cells. Knockdown
of ICAP-1 expression in primary T cells revealed a role in cell
polarity, cell velocity and transmigration towards SDF-1 for this
adaptor protein. This study therefore uncovers new roles for
GPCR/GPCR-associated proteins and kinases in T-cell migration and
provides potential novel targets for modulation of the T-cell immune
response.
A new natural hybrid species of China native begonia revealed by morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: Shu Jiang-Ping , Dake Tian , Xiao Yan , Yang Cheng-Zi , Li Yan-Ci , Wang Song-Wei
Published: January 2024

Natural hybridization can impact species diversity as an important
evolutionary process and it is very common in Begonia, a mega-diverse
plant genus. Recently, a natural hybrid between Begonia palmata and B.
circumlobata was found in three locations of southeast China. It is very
similar to B. palmata and difficult to identify only based on
morphological characters. According to the maternal uniparental
inheritance of chloroplast genome and biparental inheritance of nuclear
genome in Begonia, nuclear locus (ITS) and chloroplast loci (rpL16)
phylogenetic trees were constructed for the putative hybrid and its
parents. The results indicated that the putative hybrid is an F1
generation with B. palmata mostly as maternal parent and B. circumlobata
as paternal parent. The hybrid is described and illustrated as a new
species (Begonia × yueminensis D.K.Tian et C.Z.Yang), and it is
morphologically compared with its allied species.
Rhodium(III)-Catalyzed C−H Cascade Annulation of Arylhydra-zines with 2-Diazo-1,3-indandiones for the Synthesis of Tetracyclic Indeno[1,2-b]indoles
Authors: Li He , Lu Ye , Xu Ning , Jin Xinxin , Chen Tao , Yu Jiaqi , Liu Jinglin
Published: January 2024

An efficient approach for the preparation of tetracyclic
indeno[1,2-b]indoles via Rh(III)-catalyzed C−H cascade annulation
between ar-ylhydrazines and diazo indan-1,3-diones has been established.
In addition, a series of indeno[1,2-b]indoles were obtained in up to
96% yield with a wide range of substrates and high functional group
tolerance. Finally, the diverse transformations of the desired products
demonstrate the synthetic utility and utilization of this protocol.
Efficacy of Dupilumab plus topical corticosteroids in children with atopic dermatitis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Si-Ning , Ruili Zhang
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Children with atopic dermatitis(AD) suffer from a high
illness burden that has a detrimental influence on their quality of life
. Objective: To determine whether topical corticosteroids and dupilumab
are effective for treating atopic dermatitis in children. Methods: Web
of Science, PubMed, and Embase, three well-known databases, were used to
conduct a thorough literature search. Using a fixed-effects or
random-effects model, the standard mean difference (SMD) or risk ratios
(RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated.PROSPERO lists
the trial protocol as CRD42023408546. Results: There were 3
investigations in total, and 896 people met the requirements for
inclusion.The combined estimate showed that dupilumab plus topical
corticosteroids had numerically greater efficacy in terms of EASI-50,
EASI-75, EASI-90, and Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) score of 0 or
1.When compared to placebo, children who got topical corticosteroids and
dupilumab scored considerably higher on the dermatological life quality
index (CDLQI). The number of individuals who achieved IGA0/1 rose with
the use of dupilumab and topical corticosteroids. Conclusions:In
children with AD, dipilumab and topical corticosteroids may be used to
treat the symptoms. Given the substantial variation between the
research, the findings should, however, be regarded with caution.
The role of interleukin-22 in mammalian intestinal homeostasis; friend and foe.
Authors: Klotskova Hedi-Britt , Kidess Evelien , Nadal Adria Lopez , Brugman Sylvia
Published: January 2024

Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is an important cytokine in the intestinal
environment. IL-22 is mainly produced by immune cells and targeted at
non-immune cells such as epithelial and stromal cells in a broad array
of tissues such as -but not restricted to- the liver and adipose tissue.
IL-22 therefore connects immune functions with metabolic functions of
the host, and since it is induced by the microbiota, connects host
functioning to the outside environment. IL-22 induces epithelial cell
proliferation aiding in rapid epithelium regeneration and wound healing.
Additionally, IL-22 activates anti-apoptotic genes and DNA damage
response pathways, enhancing epithelial cell survival. Recently, it has
also been shown that IL-22 induces Paneth cell differentiation in
humans. However, IL-22 can also contribute to intestinal epithelium
damage and reduces microbial diversity in the intestine directly or
indirectly by inducing excessive antimicrobial peptide production by
epithelial cells. Moreover, IL-22 enhances angiogenesis and may
therefore support tumorigenesis in the intestine. In conclusion, it
appears that whether IL-22 has a beneficial or harmful effect in the
mammalian intestine largely depends on its regulation. This review aims
to provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature and
emphasizes that IL-22 signalling outcome depends on the timing and
duration of IL-22 production, the presence of it regulators such as
IL-22BP, and the specific location of the cytokine production in the
gastrointestinal tract.
HOW MATERNAL SYMPTOMS AND SENSITIVITY PREDICT ATTACHMENT SECURITY IN LOW SES TURKISH MOTHER-TODDLER DYADS
Authors: Önder Feyza Elif , Karabulut Deniz Hazal , Arikan Gizem , Kumru Asiye
Published: January 2024

We examined the association between maternal mental health
symptomatology, sensitivity, and toddlers’ attachment security in a
low-SES Turkish sample. Mothers (N= 148) and their 12- to 38-month-old
toddlers (Mage = 23.18 months) from economically impoverished
backgrounds were recruited. Home visits involved naturalistic home
observations of mother–toddler interactions and filling out
questionnaires including Brief Symptom Inventory. Trained coders
independently assessed video-recorded mother-toddler interactions for
maternal sensitivity and toddlers’ attachment security using the
Maternal Behavior Q-Sort and with Attachment Q-Sort, respectively.
Maternal symptoms were negatively associated while maternal sensitivity
was positively associated with attachment security. Further, this
relationship remained significant even after controlling for SES.
However, maternal sensitivity did not significantly mediate the link
between maternal symptoms and toddlers’ attachment security. We showed
that the importance SES and maternal factors on attachment security in a
disadvantaged group, which would facilitate developing preventive
interventions specifically addressing maternal mental health and
high-risk groups.
‘Let’s Talk About Children’ Family Focused Practice for Children of Parents with Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Xu Lingzi , Sheng Zhi , Zhou Tianhang , Xie Chenmei , Wang Xun , Zhang Wufang , Wu Tingfang , Gronholm Petra , Chen Dafang , Ma Hong , Thornicroft Graham , Guan Lili , Yu Xin
Published: January 2024

Introduction: ‘Let’s Talk About Children’ is a brief family
focused intervention developed to improve mental health outcomes of
children of parents with mental illness (COPMI). This study aims to
assess the efficacy of LTC in improving mental health of children of
parents with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder in China.
Methods: The planned study is a multicentre parallel group
randomized wait-list controlled trial. A total of 400 eligible families
with children aged 8 to 18 years will be recruited, 200 each for
families with parental schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. The
intervention group will receive Let’s Talk About Children delivered by a
trained therapist, while the control group will receive treatment as
usual. The primary outcomes are child mental health measured by the
strengths and difficulties questionnaire and parent-child communication
measured using the parent-adolescent communication scale. Parental
mental health and family functioning are secondary outcomes. This study
also plans to explore mediating factors for the effect of Let’s Talk
About Children on child mental health, as well as conduct a
cost-effectiveness analysis on using Let’s Talk About Children in China.
Conclusion: The present study will provide evidence for the
efficacy of Let’s Talk About Children in families with parental
schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in China. In addition, it will
evaluate potential mechanisms of action and cost-effectiveness of Let’s
Talk About Children, providing a basis for future implementation.
Clinical characteristics, laboratory tests and tolerance acquisition in infants less than one year of age with cow's milk protein allergy in a private center in Lima -- Peru for the period 2021 -2022
Authors: Galván-Calle César , Vasquez Cecilia Diaz , Córdova-Calderón Wilmer , Torre Juan Gomez de la , Matos-Benavides Edgar
Published: January 2024

Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) in Latin America is little studied. We
conducted a prospective study in 64 patients with a median age of 3
months, 39/64 (60.94%) were male, 23/64 (35.93%) had malnutrition,
56/64 (87.5%) had familiar atopy, 34/64 (51.56%) were receiving
exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). The patients passed a medical evaluation
by the specialist and underwent: Prick Test, ImmunoCAP, Fecal
Calprotectin (FC) and fecal eosinophil derived neurotoxin (EDN),
double-blind placebo control oral food challenges (DBPCFC) and were
observed for one year regarding their clinical evolution and acquisition
of tolerance. 58/64 (90.63%) had gastrointestinal manifestations, 7/64
(10.94%) had a dermatological manifestation, 2/64 (3.1%) had
respiratory manifestations and 2/64 (3.1%) had anaphylaxis. 6/64
(9.38%) had an IgE - mediated CMPA. In patients with Non - IgE Mediated
CMPA, fecal calprotectin was found to have a median of 284 mg/dL and an
interquartile range (IQR) of 138.5 - 415.5. EDN had a median of 508.5
mg/dL with an IQR of 160.25 - 868. One year after diagnosis, the median
FC decreased significantly with p < 0.0001. Malnutrition after
one year was reduced to 17.18%. Likewise, 52/64 (81%) acquired
tolerance after practicing DBPCFC on them. 33/64 (52%) used nutritional
replacement formulas from the time of diagnosis, those who used
Nutramigen LGG 15/16 (94%) acquired tolerance after practicing DBPCFC
while 12/17 (71%) of those who used other formulas acquired tolerance
(p. 0.08). Our findings are a good starting point for future studies
that explore the diagnosis, acquisition of CMPA tolerance, and the use
of hypoallergenic formulas with the particularities of our region.
Boehmeria nivea var. strigosa (Urticaceae), a new variety from southwest China
Authors: Zhao Ying , Yi Ting-Shuang , Milne Richard , Li Zhi-Peng , Li Yin-Lei , Kipkoech Amos , Li Ke , Fu Xiao-Gang , De-Zhu Li , Wu Zeng-Yuan
Published: January 2024

Boehmeria nivea var. strigosa Zeng Y. Wu & Y. Zhao, a new variety of B.
nivea (Urticaceae) from southwest China, is here described and
illustrated based on evidence from morphology and molecular phylogeny.
This new variety is mainly characterized by its green abaxial leaf
blade, partly connate stipules, and densely patent strigose hairs. The
phylogenetic relationship of rbcL showed that B. nivea var. strigosa
formed a monophyletic group with a high support value. The conservation
status of B. nivea var. strigosa is assessed as “Near Threatened” (NT)
based on IUCN Criteria.
The Effect of Parenting Practices and Family Adjustment of Caregivers on Early Childhood Development in Rural China
Authors: Song Qiannan , Zhang Yali , Zheng Wenting , Yue Ai , Qiao Na
Published: January 2024

We used a unique panel dataset of 1682 children from villages in
Northwest China. Our objective was to estimate the impact of parenting
practices and family adjustment on early childhood development among
infants aged 5 to 24 months. Within this cohort, an alarming 53.58% of
children exhibited susceptibility to cognitive development delays.
Additionally, 60.02%, 36.24%, and 40.11% were at risk of language,
motor, and social-emotional delays, respectively. Moreover, parental
consistency, coercive parenting and the parental adjustment of
caregivers were relatively poor. Multivariate analysis revealed that
total parenting practices and family adjustment had significant positive
effects on all dimensions of early childhood development, including the
cognitive, language, motor, and social-emotional dimensions; parenting
practices had the strongest relationship with all dimensions of child
development; and family adjustment had a significant positive predictive
function only for social-emotional development.
Comparison οf Immune Responses Through Multiparametric T cell Cytokine Expression Profile Between Children With Convalescent COVID-19 Or Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome
Authors: Michos Athanasios , Filippatos Filippos , Tzanoudaki Marianna , Tatsi Elizabeth , Dessypris Nick , Koukou Dimitra-Maria , Georgokosta Chrysa , Syriopoulou Vasiliki
Published: January 2024

The immunological pathways that cause Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome
after SARS-CoV-2 infection in children (MIS-C) remain under
investigation. The aim of this study was to prospectively compare the
T-cell cytokine expression profile between children with convalescent
COVID-19 or MIS-C. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were
isolated from unvaccinated children with acute MIS-C (MIS-C_A) before
immunosuppression, convalescent MIS-C (one month after syndrome onset,
MIS-C_C), convalescent COVID-19 (one month after hospitalization) and
healthy, unvaccinated controls. Intracellular expression of IL-4, IL-2,
IL-17, IFN-γ, TNF-α and Granzyme B, post SARS-CoV-2-Spike antigenic mix
stimulation of T cell subsets was analyzed by 13-colour Flow Cytometry.
Twenty children (4 MIS-C_A, 4 MIS-C_C, 8 post-COVID-19, and 4
controls) with median age (IQR): 11.5(7.25-14) years were included in
the study. From the comparison of the flow cytometry analysis of the 14
markers of MIS-C_A with the other 3 groups (MIS-C_C, post-COVID-19 and
controls), statistically significant differences were identified for: 1.
CD4 IL-17 /million CD3
: 293.0 (256.4-870.9) vs 50.7 (8.4-140.5);
P-value:0.03, vs 96.7 (89.2-135.4); P-value:0.03 and vs
8.7 (0.0-82.4); P-value:0.03, respectively, 2. CD8
IL-17 /million CD3
: 335.2 (225.8-429.9) vs 78.0 (31.9-128.9) vs
84.1(0.0-204.6) vs 33.2 (0.0-114.6); P-value:0.05, respectively
3. CD8 IFN-γ /million CD3
: 162.2 (91.6-273.4) vs 41.5 (0.0-77.4);
P-value:0.03 vs 30.3(0.0-92.8); P-value:0.08,
respectively. In children presenting with MIS-C one month after COVID-19
infection, T cells were found to be polarized towards IL-17 and IFN-γ
production compared to those with uncomplicated convalescent COVID-19, a
finding that could provide possible immunological biomarkers for MIS-C
detection.