bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Worldwide Perspective on Diagnosis and Management of Diverticular Disease: Understanding Similarities and Differences
Authors: O’Neill Iain
Published: November 2022

The epidemiology of diverticular disease (DD) is changing, with an increasing prevalence in younger patients from Europe and the USA, and changing disease patterns also seen in Asian populations. This epidemiological shift has substantial implications for disease management policy and healthcare costs. Most (75–80%) patients with diverticulosis never develop symptoms. Around 5% develop acute diverticulitis or other complications, while 10–15% develop symptomatic uncomplicated DD (SUDD) with symptoms resembling irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, most available guidelines highlight the importance of diverticulitis, with less emphasis on and often limited discussion about SUDD and its management. Recent data suggest an important relationship between gut microbiota and DD, including SUDD. In healthy individuals, the gut microbiota exists in harmony (eubiosis); in individuals with disease, quantitative and qualitative changes in microbial diversity (dysbiosis) may adversely influence colonic metabolism and homeostasis. Addressing this imbalance and restoring a healthier microbiota via eubiotic or probiotic therapy may be of value. In SUDD, clinical benefit has been seen with the use of rifaximin, which acts by multiple mechanisms: direct antibiotic activity, a modulatory eubiotic effect with an increase in muco-protective Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium organisms, and anti-inflammatory effects, among others. Clinical studies have demonstrated symptom improvement and reduction in complications in patients with SUDD, with a favourable safety and tolerability profile and no evidence of microbial resistance. Evidence for other agents in DD is less robust. Mesalamine is not effective at preventing recurrence of acute diverticulitis, although it may provide some symptom improvement. At present, there is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of probiotics in SUDD symptom management.
Practical Management of Anaemia After a Gastrointestinal Bleed
Authors: Amisten Stefan
Published: November 2022

Prof Gralnek presented a clinical case on the management of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) as a result of Helicobacter pylori infection, and the role of intravenous (IV) ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) as a treatment option for iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) was discussed. IV iron is suitable for patients who have intolerance or limited or no response to oral iron, haemoglobin (Hb) <10 g/dL, or Hb >10 g/dL with cardiovascular or respiratory comorbidities. Prof Gralnek stressed that IDA is common, often underdiagnosed and undertreated, and that the choice between oral or IV iron therapy depends on the degree of anaemia, presence of inflammation, and adherence to oral iron therapy. The main objective of iron treatment is to normalise Hb and iron parameters, and gastroenterologists need to be more aware of anaemia beyond the acute GIB episodes.

Prof Lanas presented a clinical case on the management of patients taking anticoagulants (AC) or antithrombotics (AT) who have anaemia due to GIB, and highlighted challenges associated with reducing the risk of bleeds while avoiding thrombotic events. Prof Lanas highlighted clinical dilemmas arising from stopping, restarting, and switching AC in patients with anaemia and GIB, as well as Hb management at discharge. He also stressed that GIB, and especially anaemia or iron storage depletion, are frequently encountered in patients taking AT, and may have a direct impact on mortality, morbidity, and quality of life (QoL). Anaemia and iron deficiency affect mortality, recovery, and QoL in patients who need a rapid restoration of Hb levels and iron stores to decrease the risk of cardiovascular events. Prof Lanas concluded by explaining that FCM therapy has a favourable safety profile, and is more effective, faster, and cost-effective compared to oral iron therapy, and therefore represents a good therapeutic option for anaemic GIB patients with elevated risk of thrombosis.
The Emerging Treatment Landscape of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Role of Innovator Biologics and Biosimilars
Authors: Reed Sam
Published: November 2022

Despite the fact that the treatment armamentarium for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is growing, unmet medical needs remain. These needs are driven, at least in part, by restricted access to biologics, which means that patients who would benefit from these agents will not receive them. This symposium explored approaches to improve IBD care, evaluating both the potential of novel therapies and the role of optimised treatment using the treat-to-target concept and careful evaluation of use of the right drug at the right time. The reality for clinicians is that selecting the best treatment needs to take into account the best medical option, patient preferences, and cost, which is one of the main barriers limiting access to biologic treatment. In this regard, biosimilars could serve the patient community by facilitating increased access, including use in early intervention to avoid disease progression. Education around biosimilars is essential to ensure patient acceptance of these agents and maximise the opportunity that they provide.
Tofu Processing at UD Sari Makmur, Wakobaloagung Village, Kabangka District, Muna Regency
Authors: Reza Reza , Herdhiansyah Dhian , Sakir Sakir
Published: November 2022

This study aims to determine the process of making tofu products at UD Sari Makmur in Wakobaloagung Village, Kabangka District, Muna Regency. The data was collected using literature study, interviews, observation, and documentation methods. The comparative method analysis results still show that UD Sari Makmur is the producer of tofu, and the main staple is soybeans, where tofu is one of the staple food ingredients in Indonesia. Tofu is also a food that contains many nutrients and is relatively easy to produce. UD Sari Makmur is included in the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) category. The method of making tofu is still simple. Namely, preparation, soaking and washing, grinding, cooking, filtering, printing, cutting, and ready to be marketed. So that the role of the individual, in this case, the worker, is enormous in the tofu production process.
The inhibitory effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells expressing anti-HAAH scFv-sTRAIL fusion protein on glioma
Authors: Xue Tian , Wang Xiaolin , Ru Jing , Zhang Lixing , Yin Huancai
Published: November 2022

Glioma is the most common malignant intracranial tumor with low 5-year survival rate. In this study, we constructed a plasmid expressing anti-HAAH single-chain antibody and sTRAIL fusion protein (scFv-sTRAIL), and explored the effects of the double gene modified human umbilical cord mesenchyreal stem cells (hucMSCs) on the growth of glioma in vitro and in vivo. The isolated hucMSCs were identified by detecting the adipogenic differentiation ability and the osteogenic differentiation ability. The phenotypes of hucMSCs were determined by the flow cytometry. The hucMSCs were infected with lentivirus expression scFv-sTRAIL fusion protein. The expression of sTRAIL in hucMSCs were detected by immunofluorescence staining, western blot and ELISA. The tropism of hucMSCs toward U87G cells was assessed by transwell assay. The inhibitory effect of hucMSCs on U87G cells were explored by CCK8 and apoptosis assay. The xenograft tumor was established by subcutaneously injection of U87G cells into the back of mice. The hucMSCs were injected via tail veins. The inhibitory effect of hucMSCs on glioma in vivo was assessed by TUNEL assay. The hucMSCs migrated into the xenograft tumor were revealed by detecting the green fluorescent. The results showed that the scFv-sTRAIL expression did not affect the phenotypes of hucMSCs. The scFv-sTRAIL expression promoted the tropism of hucMSCs toward U87G cells, enhanced the inhibitory effect and tumor killing effect of hucMSCs on U87G cells. The in vivo study showed that hucMSCs expressing scFv-sTRAIL demonstrated significantly higher inhibitory effect and tumor killing effect than hucMSCs expressing sTRAIL. The green fluorescence intensity in the mice injected with hucMSCs expressing scFv-sTRAIL was significantly higher than that injected with hucMSCs expressing sTRAIL. These data suggested that the scFv conferred the targeting effect of hucMSCs tropism towards the xenograft tumor. In conclusion, the hucMSCs expressing scFv-sTRAIL fusion protein gained the capability to target and kill gliomas cells in vitro and in vivo. These findings shed light on a potential therapy for glioma treatment.
Long-term performance of a hybrid indirect evaporative cooling-mechanical vapor compression cycle: A case study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Chen Qian , M Kum Ja , Burhan Muhammad , Shahzad Muhammad Wakil , Ybyraiymkul Doskhan , Oh Seungjin , Cui Xin , Ng Kim Choon
Published: November 2022

In Saudi Arabia, air conditioning is the main consumer of electricity, and increasing its energy efficiency is of great importance for energy conservation and carbon footprint reduction. This study presents the evaluation of a hybrid indirect evaporative cooling-mechanical vapor compression (IEC-MVC) cycle for cooling applications in Saudi Arabia. Most cities in this country are characterized by a high sensible cooling demand, and a few cities near the coasts of the Red sea and the Persian Gulf also need dehumidification. By employing the hybrid system, IEC can undertake about 60% of the cooling load in the summer of arid cities, and energy consumption can be reduced by up to 50%. The contribution of IEC and energy saving are less significant in humid cities because the latent loads have to be handled by MVC. Over the whole year, IEC contributes 50% of the total cooling capacity and reduces energy consumption by 40% in dry cities, while the saving is lower at 15%–25% in humid cities like Mecca and Jeddah. The average water consumption of the IEC is in the range of 4–12 L/hr. The water consumption can be replenished by the condensate collected from the MVC evaporator if the ambient humidity is high. Based on the annual performance, the cost of the IEC-MVC process is calculated, and it is 15%–35% lower than the standalone MVC. The results demonstrate the great potential of the hybrid IEC-MVC cycle in Saudi Arabia.
Reprogrammed fecal and mucosa-associated intestinal microbiota and weakened mucus layer in intestinal goblet cell- specific Piezo1-deficient mice
Authors: Liu Ying , Fang Feifei , Xiong Yilin , Wu Jiandi , Li Xueyan , Li Gangping , Bai Tao , Hou Xiaohua , Song Jun
Published: November 2022

Dysfunction of the mucus layer allows commensal and pathogenic microorganisms to reach the intestinal epithelium, thereby leading to infection and inflammation. This barrier is synthesized and secreted by host goblet cells. Many factors that influence the function of goblet cells (GCs) have been studied. However, how the microenvironment surrounding GCs influences the mucus layer and microbiota of the colon is unclear. To explore the effect of GC Piezo1 on the mucus layer and microbiota in the colon, we generated an intestinal epithelial Piezo1 conditional knockout mouse model. The fecal-associated microbiota (FAM) and mucosa-associated microbiota (MAM) of the two groups were characterized based on amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. Our results showed that GC Piezo1-/- mice developed decreased GC numbers, thinner mucus layer, and increased inflammatory cytokines (e.g., CXCL1, CXCL2, IL-6) on the 7th day. In addition, decreased Spdef and increased DOCK4 were discovered in KO mice. Meanwhile, the diversity and richness were increased in MAM and decreased in FAM in the GC Piezo1-/- group compared with the GC Piezo1+/+ group. We also observed increased abundances of Firmicutes and decreased abundances of Verrucomicrobiota and Actinobacteriota in the MAM of the GC Piezo1-/- group. Additionally, BugBase predicts that potentially pathogenic bacteria may have increased in the inner mucus layer, which is consistent with the higher abundance of Helicobacter hepaticus, Lactobacillus johnsonii, Escherichia-Shigella and Oscillospiraceae in MAM. These results further support the hypothesis that the role of Piezo1 in GCs is important for maintaining the function of the mucus layer and intestinal microbiota balance in the mouse colon.
Gut dysbiosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutic implications
Authors: Fang Jie , Yu Chen-Huan , Li Xue-Jian , Yao Jin-Mei , Fang Zheng-Yu , Yoon Soo-Hyun , Yu Wen-Ying
Published: November 2022

The incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing recently and has become one of the most common clinical liver diseases. Since the pathogenesis of NAFLD has not been completely elucidated, few effective therapeutic drugs are available. As the “second genome” of human body, gut microbiota plays an important role in the digestion, absorption and metabolism of food and drugs. Gut microbiota can act as an important driver to advance the occurrence and development of NAFLD, and to accelerate its progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Growing evidence has demonstrated that gut microbiota and its metabolites directly affect intestinal morphology and immune response, resulting in the abnormal activation of inflammation and intestinal endotoxemia; gut dysbiosis also causes dysfunction of gut-liver axis via alteration of bile acid metabolism pathway. Because of its composition diversity and disease-specific expression characteristics, gut microbiota holds strong promise as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for NAFLD. Intervening intestinal microbiota, such as antibiotic/probiotic treatment and fecal transplantation, has been a novel strategy for preventing and treating NAFLD. In this article, we have reviewed the emerging functions and association of gut bacterial components in different stages of NAFLD progression and discussed its potential implications in NAFLD diagnosis and therapy.
Posterior cortical atrophy in logopenic progressive aphasia: A case report
Authors: Jeevendra Kumar Darshini , Goyal Sheetal , Arshad Faheem , Purushothaman Vandana Valiyaparambath , Ramakrishnan Subasree , Alladi Suvarna
Published: November 2022

Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) and Logopenic progressive aphasia (LPA) are nonamnestic variants of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Language deficits are a hallmark of LPA but not PCA. Studies have revealed the presence of language deficits in PCA similar to LPA, however it has not been a consistent observation. Only alexia and agraphia are the language deficits listed in the latest consensus criteria for classification of PCA. In this case report we present the clinical, cognitive-linguistic, and neuroimaging features of a patient presenting with an unusual overlap of LPA-PCA. Although the diagnostic characteristics for LPA is fulfilled, the probable progression of the disease to exhibit most of the characteristics similar to PCA is highlighted. Thus, it contributes to the notion of a continuum between the two atypical variants of AD. The possibility of patients with PCA to exhibit language deficits with the progression of the disease similar to that of LPA that primarily involves the phonological short-term memory deficits is emphasized. The need to not undermine the language deficits irrespective of the stage of the disease in PCA is weighed upon for a better identification and management via speech-language intervention programs.
Polymorphisms of the apolipoprotein E gene affect response to atorvastatin therapy in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Bi QianQian , Zhou XiaoYu , Lu YanQin , Fu Wang , Wang YongPeng , Wang Feng , Wang Jue
Published: November 2022

Background

Polymorphisms of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene are related to the efficacy of statin therapy. The biological functions of the APOE subtypes determine the metabolism of blood plasma lipids and the progression of atherosclerosis. This study aimed to explore the impact of APOE gene polymorphisms on the effect of atorvastatin on lipid regulation and plaque stabilization.

Methods

The study was a prospective cohort study that consecutively included patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, from December 2018 to December 2019. The patients were divided into E2, E3, and E4 groups according to their APOE genotype. Atorvastatin (20 mg) was administrated to all patients. Changes in blood lipid levels over 3 months and plaque size and stability over 12 months were analyzed.

Results

We enrolled 253 consecutive patients with AIS, of whom, 136 had carotid atherosclerotic plaques. Two patients with genotype E2/E4 were excluded. There were 30 patients in the E2 group (12.0%), 191 patients in the E3 group (76.0%), and 30 patients in the E4 group (12.0%). The lowest percentage reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was observed in the E4 group (41.2%), while the highest percentage reduction was observed in the E2 group (17.6%). The plaques in the E2 group showed slower progression, while those in the E4 group showed more rapid progression.

Conclusion

APOE gene polymorphisms affect the biological functions of atorvastatin. Compared to the ε3 or ε4 allele, the ε2 allele exerted a greater lipid-lowering effect on LDL-C levels, enhanced the ability of atorvastatin to stabilize carotid artery plaques, and slowed carotid artery plaque progression.
Pleural and mediastinal effusions after the extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection: Risk factors and impact on outcome
Authors: Heinisch Paul Philipp , Metz Paul , Staehler Helena , Mayr Benedikt , Vodiskar Janez , Strbad Martina , Ruf Bettina , Ewert Peter , Hager Alfred , Hörer Jürgen , Ono Masamichi
Published: November 2022

Background

This study investigated the volume and duration of pleural and mediastinal effusions following extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection, as well as preoperative risk factors and their impact on outcome.

Materials and methods

A total of 210 patients who underwent extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection at our center between 2012 and 2020 were included in this study. Postoperative daily amount of pleural and mediastinal drainage were collected and factors influencing duration and amount of effusions were analyzed. The impact of effusions on adverse events was analyzed.

Results

Median age at extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection was 2.2 (interquartile range, 1.8–2.7) years with median weight of 11.6 (10.7–13.0) kg. Overall duration of drainage after extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection was 9 (6–17) days. The total volume of mediastinal, right pleural, and left pleural drainage was 18.8 (11.9–36.7), 64.4 (27.4–125.9), and 13.6 (0.0–53.5) mL/kg, respectively. Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (p = 0.004) and end-diastolic pressure (p = 0.044) were associated with high volume of drainages, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (p = 0.007), presence of aortopulmonary collaterals (p = 0.002), and high end-diastolic pressure (p = 0.023) were associated with long duration of drainages. Dextrocardia was associated with higher volume (p < 0.001) and longer duration (p = 0.006) of left pleural drainage. Duration of drainage was associated with adverse events following extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection (p = 0.015).

Conclusion

Volume and duration of pleural and mediastinal effusions following extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection were related with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, aortopulmonary collaterals, and end-diastolic pressure. The duration of drainage for effusions was a risk factor for adverse events after total cavopulmonary connection.
Case report: Genomic screening for inherited cardiac conditions in Ecuadorian mestizo relatives: Improving familial diagnose
Authors: Cadena-Ullauri Santiago , Guevara-Ramirez Patricia , Ruiz-Pozo Viviana , Tamayo-Trujillo Rafael , Paz-Cruz Elius , Sánchez Insuasty Tatiana , Doménech Nieves , Ibarra-Rodríguez Adriana Alexandra , Zambrano Ana Karina
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Genomic screening is an informative and helpful tool for the clinical management of inherited conditions such as cardiac diseases. Cardiac-inherited diseases are a group of disorders affecting the heart, its system, function, and vasculature. Among the cardiac inherited abnormalities, one of the most common is Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Similarly, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is another common autosomal dominant inherited cardiac disease. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is associated with an increased incidence of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome; reports have suggested that it could be caused by a mutation in the protein-coding gene PRKAG2, which encodes a subunit of the AMP-activated protein kinase.

Case presentation

A 37-year-old Ecuadorian male (Subject A) with familiar history of bradycardia, cardiac pacemaker implantation, and undiagnosed cardiac conditions began with episodes of tachycardia, dizziness, shortness of breath, and a feeling of fainting. He was diagnosed with hypertrophic myocardiopathy and Wolff Parkinson White preexcitation syndrome. Furthermore, his cousin's son, an 18-year-old Ecuadorian male (Subject B), started suffering from migraine and tachycardia at any time of the day. He was diagnosed with hypertrophic myocardiopathy; his electrocardiogram showed a systolic overload. Next-generation sequencing and ancestry analyses were performed. A c.905G>A p.(Arg302Gln) mutation in the gene PRKAG2 and a mainly European composition were identified in both subjects.

Conclusion

Genetic testing is a valuable tool as it can provide important information regarding a disease, including its cause and consequences, not only for single individuals but to identify at-risk relatives. Furthermore, NGS results could guide the physician into targeted therapy. In the present case report, a missense pathogenic Arg302Gln mutation in the PRKAG2 gene has been identified in two related Ecuadorian Subjects diagnosed with hypertrophic myocardiopathy and Wolff-Parkinson-White. The variant has not been reported in Latin America; hence, this is the first report of the Arg302Gln mutation in the PRKAG2 gene in mestizo Ecuadorian subjects with mainly European ancestry components.
99mTc-sestamibi and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose imaging in patients with cardiogenic shock: A pilot study
Authors: Hua Cuncun , Cai Qizhe , Xi Xiao-Ying , Lin Mingming , Wang Li , Li Lina , Yao Dandan , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhao Lei , Wang Lefeng , Su Pixiong , Xie Boqia
Published: November 2022

Background

Whether perfusion/metabolism imaging differs between matched ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with and without cardiogenic shock (CS) remains unknown.

Methods

Seventeen STEMI patients with CS (13 men, 60 ± 12 years) and 16 matched STEMI patients without CS (15 men, 54 ± 15 years) were prospectively recruited. All patients underwent baseline 99mTc-sestamibi/18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) imaging and echocardiography 6 ± 2 days post-infarction. Nine patients with CS and seven without CS had repeated imaging 98 ± 7 days post-infarction. The total perfusion deficit (TPD) and total FDG uptake deficit (TFD) were calculated to assess the percentages of impaired perfusion and metabolism over the left ventricle. Patients were followed up for 337 days (213–505 days) and the major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were recorded.

Results

TPD was greater in patient with CS and was independently related to the presence of CS (OR: 4.36, p = 0.013). Both acute- and convalescent TFD were inversely related to the improvement ratio of LVEF (r-values: −0.62, −0.73; both p < 0.05). MACE occurred in 16 patients (10 CS and 6 non-CS), and acute TFD was predictive of MACE in those with CS (HR: 2.06, p = 0.038).

Conclusion

In this pilot study, we demonstrated that STEMI patients with CS had a significantly increased TPD, which was relevant to the presence of CS. Acute TFD was associated with improvement in LVEF, and was predictive of MACE in patients with CS.
Prabhakar fractional derivative model of sodium alginate (C6H9NaO7) for accelerated plate motions
Authors: Khan Ilyas
Published: November 2022

The Prabhakar fractional derivative model is not studied in the open literature for the Casson fluid model when the vertical plate exhibits linear and quadratic translations with constant heating. Therefore, this study deals with the thermal transport of sodium alginate (C6H9NaO7) over a vertical plate with a constant temperature. Since the classical PDEs are incapable of analyzing and investigating the physical impact of flow variables with memory effects, a fractional derivative model is developed using the Prabhakar fractional derivative approach. Two different types of plate translations (linear and quadratic) are considered. The non-dimensional governing equations are transformed into a fractional model and solved using the Laplace transformation (L.T) technique. The effects and behavior of significant physical parameters and fractional order parameters are studied graphically and discussed. As a consequence, it is found that as fractional limitations are increased, the thermal and momentum profiles drop. In addition, the momentum profile in the case of quadratic translation (variable acceleration) shows a higher magnitude than the case of linear translation (constantly accelerated plate).
A review on household air pollution and biomass use over Kenya
Authors: Shilenje Zablon Weku , Maloba Scholastica , Ongoma Victor
Published: November 2022

Household air pollution (HAP) causes multiple noncommunicable diseases, such as pneumonia, stroke, and ischemic heart disease, and is responsible for over 3.8 million deaths globally per year. Kenya has a high rate of HAP, mainly caused by solid fuels. This review assesses its effect and identifies factors that could improve policy in Kenya. A systematic review approach is used, mainly considering 88 research articles on the Web of Science, published from 1951 to 2022. We excluded studies on HAP caused by other forms of fuel, subjective study types, and studies focusing on animals. The results show that rural settings and urban slums have more HAP, ventilation is an important factor, HAP is high in the evening, and children and women health is significantly affected. There is a need for interventions to reduce the use of biomass fuels in Kenya. The interventions include improved access to efficient cookstoves with ventilation, community health awareness about ventilation, housing rules for better ventilation in rural and urban areas, and NGO partnership for improving access to improved cookstoves in rural areas. The government’s role includes subsidizing the supply and cost of renewable energy and adopting energy policies that encourage populations to switch to more efficient cookstoves, cleaner energy, and modern biofuels.
Clinical detection, diagnosis and treatment of morphological abnormalities of sperm flagella: A review of literature
Authors: Wang Jiaxiong , Wang Weizhuo , Shen Liyan , Zheng Aiyan , Meng Qingxia , Li Hong , Yang Shenmin
Published: November 2022

Sperm carries male genetic information, and flagella help move the sperm to reach oocytes. When the ultrastructure of the flagella is abnormal, the sperm is unable to reach the oocyte and achieve insemination. Multiple morphological abnormalities of sperm flagella (MMAF) is a relatively rare idiopathic condition that is mainly characterized by multiple defects in sperm flagella. In the last decade, with the development of high-throughput DNA sequencing approaches, many genes have been revealed to be related to MMAF. However, the differences in sperm phenotypes and reproductive outcomes in many cases are attributed to different pathogenic genes or different pathogenic mutations in the same gene. Here, we will review information about the various phenotypes resulting from different pathogenic genes, including sperm ultrastructure and encoding proteins with their location and functions as well as assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. We will share our clinical detection and diagnosis experience to provide additional clinical views and broaden the understanding of this disease.
Mesenchymal stromal cells as treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome. Case Reports following hematopoietic cell transplantation and a review
Authors: Sadeghi Behnam , Ringdén Olle , Gustafsson Britt , Castegren Markus
Published: November 2022

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung disease. It may occur during the pancytopenia phase following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). ARDS is rare following HCT. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have strong anti-inflammatory effect and first home to the lung following intravenous infusion. MSCs are safe to infuse and have almost no side effects. During the Covid-19 pandemic many patients died from ARDS. Subsequently MSCs were evaluated as a therapy for Covid-19 induced ARDS. We report three patients, who were treated with MSCs for ARDS following HCT. Two were treated with MSCs derived from the bone marrow (BM). The third patient was treated with MSCs obtained from the placenta, so-called decidua stromal cells (DSCs). In the first patient, the pulmonary infiltrates cleared after infusion of BM-MSCs, but he died from multiorgan failure. The second patient treated with BM-MSCs died of aspergillus infection. The patient treated with DSCs had a dramatic response and survived. He is alive after 7 years with a Karnofsky score of 100%. We also reviewed experimental and clinical studies using MSCs or DSCs for ARDS. Several positive reports are using MSCs for sepsis and ARDS in experimental animals. In man, two prospective randomized placebo-controlled studies used adipose and BM-MSCs, respectively. No difference in outcome was seen compared to placebo. Some pilot studies used MSCs for Covid-19 ARDS. Positive results were achieved using umbilical cord and DSCs however, optimal source of MSCs remains to be elucidated using randomized trials.
Molecular epidemiology and mechanism of Klebsiella pneumoniae resistance to ertapenem but not to other carbapenems in China
Authors: Wang Dongliang , Wang Minggui , He Tianpeng , Li Dan , Zhang Liqin , Zhang Dongquan , Feng Junshuai , Yang Wenli , Yuan Yuan
Published: November 2022

Resistance to only ertapenem is an unusual phenotype of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP). This study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology and underlying mechanism involved in ertapenem resistance of K. pneumoniae strains that are susceptible to meropenem and imipenem. Among the 697 K. pneumoniae strains isolated from 11 grade A hospitals in China, 245 were CRKP strains, of which 18 strains resistant only to ertapenem were isolated. The genotypes, phenotypes, drug resistance homology, and drug sensitivity were analyzed; moreover, the expressions of efflux pump components and outer membrane proteins were assessed. The whole genomes of these 18 strains were sequenced and analyzed for mutations leading to drug resistance. The results revealed that ertapenem resistance may be related to ramR mutation. The function of ramR was confirmed using gene complementation to the original strain to determine the mechanism underlying ertapenem resistance of K. pneumoniae strains. In total, 7.4% of the tested CRKP strains were resistant only to ertapenem. None of these strains contained carbapenemase genes. Of the 18 ertapenem-resistant strains, 17 expressed the efflux pump, and outer membrane protein expression was reduced or absent in 4 strains. Whole-genome sequencing revealed the presence of mutations that introduced premature ramR codons stop in 14 strains (77.78%). When a functional copy of ramR was restored in the 14 strains, the minimum inhibitory concentration of ertapenem decreased, inhibition of efflux pumps was not detected, and the expression of outer membrane protein OmpK35 was either increased or was restored. These findings reveal the existence of ertapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae exhibiting no clonal transmission between strains. Mutations in ramR were demonstrated to cause outer membrane protein OmpK35 inhibition and over-expression of efflux pump in some strains, which is implicated in ertapenem resistance only in K. pneumoniae.
The population structure and genetic diversity of Listeria monocytogenes ST9 strains based on genomic analysis
Authors: Song Zexuan , Ji Shunshi , Wang Yan , Luo Lijuan , Wang Yiqian , Mao Pan , Li Lingling , Jiang Huaying , Ye Changyun
Published: November 2022

Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous foodborne pathogen causing both invasive and non-invasive listeriosis. Sequence type (ST) 9 strains is common in food and food processing environments. In this study, the whole-genome sequences (WGS) of 207 ST9 isolates from different sources, geographical locations (14 countries), and isolated years were analyzed. The ST9 isolates were divided into three clusters after phylogenetic analysis; 67.63% of ST9 isolates contained putative plasmids with different sizes and genomic structure, the putative prophages inserted in the chromosome at ten hotspots, and seven types of premature stop codon (PMSC) mutations in inlA were found in 81.86% of the ST9 isolates. In addition, 78.26% of ST9 isolates harbored Tn554-like elements carrying arsenic resistance genes. All the ST9 isolates conservatively contained environment-resistance genes on the chromosome. This analysis of population structures and features of ST9 isolates was aimed to help develop effective strategies to control this prevalent pathogen in the food chain.
Long-term effects of early-life rumen microbiota modulation on dairy cow production performance and methane emissions
Authors: Huuki Hanna , Tapio Miika , Mäntysaari Päivi , Negussie Enyew , Ahvenjärvi Seppo , Vilkki Johanna , Vanhatalo Aila , Tapio Ilma
Published: November 2022

Rumen microbiota modulation during the pre-weaning period has been suggested as means to affect animal performance later in life. In this follow-up study, we examined the post-weaning rumen microbiota development differences in monozygotic twin-heifers that were inoculated (T-group) or not inoculated (C-group) (n = 4 each) with fresh adult rumen liquid during their pre-weaning period. We also assessed the treatment effect on production parameters and methane emissions of cows during their 1st lactation period. The rumen microbiota was determined by the 16S rRNA gene, 18S rRNA gene, and ITS1 amplicon sequencing. Animal weight gain and rumen fermentation parameters were monitored from 2 to 12 months of age. The weight gain was not affected by treatment, but butyrate proportion was higher in T-group in month 3 (p = 0.04). Apart from archaea (p = 0.084), the richness of bacteria (p < 0.0001) and ciliate protozoa increased until month 7 (p = 0.004) and anaerobic fungi until month 11 (p = 0.005). The microbiota structure, measured as Bray–Curtis distances, continued to develop until months 3, 6, 7, and 10, in archaea, ciliate protozoa, bacteria, and anaerobic fungi, respectively (for all: p = 0.001). Treatment or age × treatment interaction had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on 18 bacterial, 2 archaeal, and 6 ciliate protozoan taxonomic groups, with differences occurring mostly before month 4 in bacteria, and month 3 in archaea and ciliate protozoa. Treatment stimulated earlier maturation of prokaryote community in T-group before month 4 and earlier maturation of ciliate protozoa at month 2 (Random Forest: 0.75 month for bacteria and 1.5 month for protozoa). No treatment effect on the maturity of anaerobic fungi was observed. The milk production and quality, feed efficiency, and methane emissions were monitored during cow’s 1st lactation. The T-group had lower variation in energy-corrected milk yield (p < 0.001), tended to differ in pattern of residual energy intake over time (p = 0.069), and had numerically lower somatic cell count throughout their 1st lactation period (p = 0.081), but no differences between the groups in methane emissions (g/d, g/kg DMI, or g/kg milk) were observed. Our results demonstrated that the orally administered microbial inoculant induced transient changes in early rumen microbiome maturation. In addition, the treatment may influence the later production performance, although the mechanisms that mediate these effects need to be further explored.
Identification of potential target genes of breast cancer in response to Chidamide treatment
Authors: Han Han , Feng Xue , Guo Yarui , Cheng Meijia , Cui Zhengguo , Guo Shanchun , Zhou Weiqiang
Published: November 2022

Chidamide, a new chemically structured HDACi-like drug, has been shown to inhibit breast cancer, but its specific mechanism has not been fully elucidated. In this paper, we selected ER-positive breast cancer MCF-7 cells and used RNA-seq technique to analyze the gene expression differences of Chidamide-treated breast cancer cells to identify the drug targets of Chidamide’s anti-breast cancer effect and to lay the foundation for the development of new drugs for breast cancer treatment. The results showed that the MCF-7 CHID group expressed 320 up-regulated genes and 222 down-regulated genes compared to the control group; Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis showed that most genes were enriched to biological processes. Subsequently, 10 hub genes for Chidamide treatment of breast cancer were identified based on high scores using CytoHubba, a plug-in for Cytoscape: TP53, JUN, CAD, ACLY, IL-6, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, THBS1, CXCL8, IMPDH2, and YARS. Finally, a combination of the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis database and Kaplan Meier mapper to compare the expression and survival analysis of these 10 hub genes, TP53, ACLY, PPARG, and JUN were found to be potential candidate genes significantly associated with Chidamide for breast cancer treatment. Among them, TP53 may be a potential target gene for Chidamide to overcome multi-drug resistance in breast cancer. Therefore, we identified four genes central to the treatment of breast cancer with Chidamide by bioinformatics analysis, and clarified that TP53 may be a potential target gene for Chidamide to overcome multi-drug resistance in breast cancer. This study lays a solid experimental and theoretical foundation for the treatment of breast cancer at the molecular level with Chidamide and for the combination of Chidamide.
Underlying microangiopathy and functional outcome of simultaneous multiple intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Li Jiawen , Shen Dan , Zhou Yanli , Jin Yujia , Jin Luhang , Ye Xianghua , Tong Lusha , Gao Feng
Published: November 2022

Objective

To identify the predominant type of cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) and outcomes in patients with simultaneous multiple intracerebral hemorrhages (SMICH).

Methods

Consecutive patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) from a single-center prospective cohort were retrospectively reviewed. Presumed etiology was classified according to the SMASH-U criteria. Demographics, clinical and laboratory variables, and neuroimaging data were compared between patients with primary SMICH and those with single ICH. Functional outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin scale 90 days after ICH.

Results

Of the 598 enrolled patients, 37 (6.2%) met the criteria for SMICH. Risk factors for SMICH included a high burden of deep cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) (odds ratio [OR] 1.06, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.12; p = 0.040), white matter hyperintensity scores (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.04–1.57; p = 0.021), history of ICH (OR 3.38, 95% CI 1.31–8.05; p = 0.008), and low serum magnesium levels (OR 0.01, 95% CI 0.00–0.25; p = 0.007). Based on the SMASH-U classification, 15(40.5%) SMICH were classified as hypertension, whereas 17 (45.9%) as undetermined-etiology. To further explore the potential microangiopathy underlying undetermined-SMICH, these patients with undetermined-etiology were compared to those with cerebral amyloid angiopathy-ICH, and were associated with a higher burden of deep CMBs but less severe centrum semiovale enlarged perivascular spaces. Likewise, compared with hypertension-ICH patients, those with undetermined SMICH were consistently associated with a higher deep CMB counts. Moreover, multivariate analysis revealed that SMICH was independently associated with poor outcomes (OR 2.23, 95%CI 1.03–4.76; p = 0.038).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that most patients with primary SMICH harbor hypertensive-SVD as principal angiopathy. Patients with SMICH are at a high risk of poor outcomes. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT 04803292).
The role of subclinical psychopathic traits on experimentally induced self- and other-compassion
Authors: Lobbestael Jill , Freund Vanessa L. , Geschwind Nicole , Meesters Cor , Peeters Frenk P. M. L.
Published: November 2022

Psychopathic traits come with high levels of anger and aggression. Since previous studies showed that compassion can mitigate both anger and aggression, the current research puts compassion forward as a possible target to alleviate psychopathy’s destructive patterns. Specifically, the present study explored the influence of subclinical psychopathic traits–as well as their three subcomponents egocentricity, callousness, and antisociality–on the efficacy of experimentally induced self-compassion (SC) and other-compassion (OC). This manuscript is part of a larger study in which student and community participants (N = 230, Mage = 27.41, 65.2% female) completed a psychopathic trait questionnaire to assess their dimensional level of psychopathy, filled out state SC and OC questionnaires, and were randomized to participate in an experimental self- or other-compassion induction. It was expected that psychopathic traits would positively relate to increases in SC but negatively relate to increases in OC. Baseline levels of both SC and OC negatively related to psychopathy. Overall, as expected, the results on change scores show that subclinical psychopathic traits positively related to a stronger increase in SC, irrespective of the type of compassion induction. This positive relation between a stronger increase in SC and psychopathy total and callousness was more pronounced after the SC induction, rather than after the OC induction. Psychopathic traits did not differentially influence changes in OC. One implication of this study is that high psychopathic and callousness traits predispose to profit extra from targeting SC. Furthermore, psychopathic traits do not hinder increasing compassion for others. These findings suggest that compassion is a promising intervention to improve the wellbeing of people with elevated subclinical psychopathic traits and those around them. Although further research is needed to assess the impact of compassion on anger and aggression specifically, and on clinical psychopathy, the current study suggests that both SC and OC may be useful intervention targets in case of elevated psychopathic traits.
Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for ischemic stroke: Novel insight into the crosstalk with immune cells
Authors: Tan Nana , Xin Wenqiang , Huang Min , Mao Yuling
Published: November 2022

Stroke, a cerebrovascular accident, is prevalent and the second highest cause of death globally across patient populations; it is as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is emerging as a promising treatment for alleviating neurological deficits, as indicated by a great number of animal and clinical studies. The potential of regulating the immune system is currently being explored as a therapeutic target after ischemic stroke. This study will discuss recent evidence that MSCs can harness the immune system by interacting with immune cells to boost neurologic recovery effectively. Moreover, a notion will be given to MSCs participating in multiple pathological processes, such as increasing cell survival angiogenesis and suppressing cell apoptosis and autophagy in several phases of ischemic stroke, consequently promoting neurological function recovery. We will conclude the review by highlighting the clinical opportunities for MSCs by reviewing the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of MSCs therapy.
Valorizing the usage of olive leaves, bioactive compounds, biological activities, and food applications: A comprehensive review
Authors: Selim Samy , Albqmi Mha , Al-Sanea Mohammad M. , Alnusaire Taghreed S. , Almuhayawi Mohammed S. , AbdElgawad Hamada , Al Jaouni Soad K. , Elkelish Amr , Hussein Shaimaa , Warrad Mona , El-Saadony Mohamed T.
Published: November 2022

Olive oil production is a significant source of economic profit for Mediterranean nations, accounting for around 98 percent of global output. Olive oil usage has increased dramatically in recent years, owing to its organoleptic characteristics and rising knowledge of its health advantages. The culture of olive trees and the manufacture of industrial and table olive oil produces enormous volumes of solid waste and dark liquid effluents, involving olive leaves, pomace, and olive oil mill wastewaters. These by-products cause an economic issue for manufacturers and pose major environmental concerns. As a result, partial reuse, like other agronomical production wastes, is a goal to be achieved. Because these by-products are high in bioactive chemicals, which, if isolated, might denote components with significant added value for the food, cosmetic, and nutraceutical sectors, indeed, they include significant amounts of beneficial organic acids, carbohydrates, proteins, fibers, and phenolic materials, which are distributed differently between the various wastes depending on the olive oil production method and table olive agronomical techniques. However, the extraction and recovery of bioactive materials from chosen by-products is a significant problem of their reasonable value, and rigorous detection and quantification are required. The primary aims of this review in this context are to outline the vital bioactive chemicals in olive by-products, evaluate the main developments in extraction, purification, and identification, and study their uses in food packaging systems and safety problems.
Extraction and immunomodulatory activity of the polysaccharide obtained from Craterellus cornucopioides
Authors: Zhang Caixuan , Shu Ying , Li Yang , Guo Mingzhu
Published: November 2022

In this study, we investigated the structural features of the polysaccharide obtained from Craterellus cornucopioides (CCP2) by high-performance liquid chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and ion chromatography. The results showed that CCP2 was a catenarian pyranose that principally comprised of mannose, galactose, glucose, and xylose in the ratio of 1.86: 1.57: 1.00: 1.14, with a molecular weight of 8.28 × 104 Da. Moreover, the immunoregulation effect of CCP2 was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. It displayed a remarkable immunological activity and activation in RAW264.7 cells by enhancing the phagocytosis of macrophages in a dose-dependent manner without showing cytotoxicity at the concentrations of 10–200 μg/mL in vitro. Additionally, Histopathological analysis indicated the protective function of CCP2 against immunosuppression induced by cyclophosphamide (Cy). Meanwhile, the intake of CCP2 had better immunoregulatory activity for immunosuppression BALB/c mice model. After prevention by CCP2, the spleen and thymus weight indexes of BALB/c mice model were significantly increased. The RT-qPCR and Western Blot results provided comprehensive evidence that the CCP2 could activate macrophages by enhancing the production of cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, and IL-8) and upregulating the protein expression of cell membrane receptor TLR4 and its downstream protein kinase (TRAF6, TRIF, and NF-κB p65) production of immunosuppressive mice through TLR4-NFκB p65 pathway. The results demonstrated that CCP2 could be a potential prebiotic and might provide meaningful information for further research on the immune mechanism.