bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The characterization of microbial communities and associations in karst tiankeng
Authors: Jiang Cong , Liu Yuanmeng , Li Hui , Zhu Sufeng , Sun Xiang , Wu Kexing , Shui Wei
Published: October 2022

The karst tiankeng is a special and grand negative terrain on the surface, that maintains a unique ecosystem. However, knowledge about bacterial and fungal communities in karst tiankengs is still limited. Therefore, soil samples from five karst tiankengs were collected and subjected to high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS genes, and multivariate statistical analysis. The results showed abundant and diversified bacterial and fungal communities in karst tiankeng. The bacterial communities were dominated by Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria, and the fungal communities were dominated by Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in bacterial and fungal communities among the five karst tiankengs, which may indicate that the distribution of bacterial and fungal communities was driven by separate karst tiankengs. The co-occurrence network structure was characterized by highly modularized assembly patterns and more positive interactions. The keystone taxa were mainly involved in nutrient cycling and energy metabolism. The null model analysis results showed that the stochastic process, especially dispersal limitation, tended to be more important in controlling the development of bacterial and fungal communities in karst tiankeng. The bacterial community structure was significantly associated with soil properties (SWC, TN, AN, and BD), while the fungal community structure was significantly associated with soil properties (SWC and TP) and plant diversity. These results can expand our knowledge of the karst tiankeng microbiome.
Diet-induced microbial adaptation process of red deer (Cervus elaphus) under different introduced periods
Authors: Guo Jinhao , Jin Yongchao , Tian Xinmin , Bao Heng , Sun Yue , Gray Thomas , Song Yaqi , Zhang Minghai
Published: October 2022

Insufficient prey density is a major factor hindering the recovery of the Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica), and to effectively restore the Amur tiger, red deer (Cervus elaphus) was released into the Huangnihe National Nature Reserve of Northeast China as the main reinforcement. Differences in feeding and synergistic changes caused by the intestinal microbial communities could impact the adaptation of wildlife following reintroductions into field environments. We analyzed the foraging changes in shaping the intestinal microbial community of the red deer after being released to the Huangnihe National Nature Reserve and screened the key microbial flora of the red deer when processing complex food resources. The feeding and intestinal microbial communities of the red deer were analyzed by plant Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) barcoding sequencing and 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing, respectively. The results showed that there were significant differences in food composition between wild and released groups [released in 2019 (R2): n = 5; released in 2021 (R0): n = 6]; the wild group fed mainly on Acer (31.8%) and Abies (25.6%), R2 fed mainly on Betula (44.6%), R0 had not formed a clear preferred feeding pattern but had certain abilities to process and adapt to natural foods. Firmicutes (77.47%) and Bacteroides (14.16%) constituted the main bacterial phylum of red deer, of which, the phylum Firmicutes was the key species of the introduced red deer for processing complex food resources (p < 0.05). The wild release process significantly changed the intestinal microbial structure of the red deer, making it integrate into the wild red deer. The period since release into the wild may be a key factor in reshaping the structure of the microbial community. This study suggested that the intestinal microbial structure of red deer was significantly different depending on how long since captive deer has been translocated. Individuals that have lived in similar environments for a long time will have similar gut microbes. This is the adaption process of the wildlife to natural environment after wild release, taking into account the gut microbes, and the feeding changes in shaping microbial communities can help introduced red deer match complex food resources and novel field environments.
Cecum microbiome and metabolism characteristics of Silky Fowl and White Leghorn chicken in late laying stages
Authors: Yang Xue , Tai Yurong , Ma Yuhao , Xu Zihan , Hao Jiaqi , Han Deping , Li Junying , Deng Xuemei
Published: October 2022

Cecal microflora plays a key role in the production performance and immune function of chickens. White Leghorn (WL) is a well-known commercial layer line chicken with high egg production rate. In contrast, Silky Fowl (SF), a Chinese native chicken variety, has a low egg production rate, but good immune performance. This study analyzed the composition of cecal microbiota, metabolism, and gene expression in intestinal tissue of these varieties and the correlations among them. Significant differences were observed in the cecal microbes:Bacteroideswas significantly enriched in WL, whereasVeillonellaceaeandParabacteroideswere significantly enriched in SF. Carbohydrate biosynthesis and metabolism pathways were significantly upregulated in WL cecum, which might provide more energy to the host, leading to persistently high levels of egg production. The higherParabacteroidesabundance in SF increased volicitin content, enhanced α-linolenic acid metabolism, and significantly negatively correlated with metabolites of propanoate metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism. Genes related to lipid metabolism, immunity, and melanogenesis were significantly upregulated in the SF cecum, regulating lipid metabolism, and participating in the immune response, while genes related to glucose metabolism and bile acid metabolism were expressed at higher levels in WL, benefiting energy support. This study provided a mechanism for intestinal microorganisms and metabolic pathways to regulate chicken egg-laying performance and immunity.
Removing carbon catabolite repression in Parageobacillus thermoglucosidasius DSM 2542
Authors: Liang Jinghui , van Kranenburg Richard , Bolhuis Albert , Leak David J.
Published: October 2022

Parageobacillus thermoglucosidasius is a thermophilic bacterium of interest for lignocellulosic biomass fermentation. However, carbon catabolite repression (CCR) hinders co-utilization of pentoses and hexoses in the biomass substrate. Hence, to optimize the fermentation process, it is critical to remove CCR in the fermentation strains with minimal fitness cost. In this study, we investigated whether CCR could be removed from P. thermoglucosidasius DSM 2542 by mutating the Ser46 regulatory sites on HPr and Crh to a non-reactive alanine residue. It was found that neither the ptsH1 (HPr-S46A) nor the crh1 (Crh-S46A) mutation individually eliminated CCR in P. thermoglucosidasius DSM 2542. However, it was not possible to generate a ptsH1 crh1 double mutant. While the Crh-S46A mutation had no obvious fitness effect in DSM 2542, the ptsH1 mutation had a negative impact on cell growth and sugar utilization under fermentative conditions. Under these conditions, the ptsH1 mutation was associated with the production of a brown pigment, believed to arise from methylglyoxal production, which is harmful to cells. Subsequently, a less directed adaptive evolution approach was employed, in which DSM 2542 was grown in a mixture of 2-deoxy-D-glucose(2-DG) and xylose. This successfully removed CCR from P. thermoglucosidasius DSM 2542. Two selection strategies were applied to optimize the phenotypes of evolved strains. Genome sequencing identified key mutations affecting the PTS components PtsI and PtsG, the ribose operon repressor RbsR and adenine phosphoribosyltransferase APRT. Genetic complementation and bioinformatics analysis revealed that the presence of wild type rbsR and apt inhibited xylose uptake or utilization, while ptsI and ptsG might play a role in the regulation of CCR in P. thermoglucosidasius DSM 2542.
Early life exposure to unpredictable parental sensory signals shapes cognitive development across three species
Authors: Davis Elysia Poggi , McCormack Kai , Arora Hina , Sharpe Desiree , Short Annabel K. , Bachevalier Jocelyne , Glynn Laura M. , Sandman Curt A. , Stern Hal S. , Sanchez Mar , Baram Tallie Z.
Published: October 2022

Exposure to early life adversity has long term consequences on cognitive function. Most research has focused on understanding components of early life adversities that contribute to later risk, including poverty, trauma, maltreatment, and neglect. Whereas these factors, in the aggregate, explain a significant proportion of emotional and cognitive problems, there are serious gaps in our ability to identify potential mechanisms by which early life adversities might promote vulnerability or resilience. Here we discuss early life exposure to unpredictable signals from the caretaker as an understudied type of adversity that is amenable to prevention and intervention. We employ a translational approach to discover underlying neurobiological mechanisms by which early life exposure to unpredictable signals sculpts the developing brain. First, we review evidence that exposure to unpredictable signals from the parent during sensitive periods impacts development of neural circuits. Second, we describe a method for characterizing early life patterns of sensory signals across species. Third, we present published and original data illustrating that patterns of maternal care predict memory function in humans, non-human primates, and rodents. Finally, implications are discussed for identifying individuals at risk so that early preventive-intervention can be provided.
Brain tissue oxygen dynamics while mimicking the functional deficiency of interneurons
Authors: Aksenov Daniil P. , Doubovikov Evan D. , Serdyukova Natalya A. , Gascoigne David A. , Linsenmeier Robert A. , Drobyshevsky Alexander
Published: October 2022

The dynamic interaction between excitatory and inhibitory activity in the brain is known as excitatory-inhibitory balance (EIB). A significant shift in EIB toward excitation has been observed in numerous pathological states and diseases, such as autism or epilepsy, where interneurons may be dysfunctional. The consequences of this on neurovascular interactions remains to be elucidated. Specifically, it is not known if there is an elevated metabolic consumption of oxygen due to increased excitatory activity. To investigate this, we administered microinjections of picrotoxin, a gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) antagonist, to the rabbit cortex in the awake state to mimic the functional deficiency of GABAergic interneurons. This caused an observable shift in EIB toward excitation without the induction of seizures. We used chronically implanted electrodes to measure both neuronal activity and brain tissue oxygen concentrations (PO2) simultaneously and in the same location. Using a high-frequency recording rate for PO2, we were able to detect two important phenomena, (1) the shift in EIB led to a change in the power spectra of PO2 fluctuations, such that higher frequencies (8–15 cycles per minute) were suppressed and (2) there were brief periods (dips with a duration of less than 100 ms associated with neuronal bursts) when PO2 dropped below 10 mmHg, which we defined as the threshold for hypoxia. The dips were followed by an overshoot, which indicates either a rapid vascular response or decrease in oxygen consumption. Our results point to the essential role of interneurons in brain tissue oxygen regulation in the resting state.
The lateral superior olive in the mouse: Two systems of projecting neurons
Authors: Williams Isabella R. , Filimontseva Anastasia , Connelly Catherine J. , Ryugo David K.
Published: October 2022

The lateral superior olive (LSO) is a key structure in the central auditory system of mammals that exerts efferent control on cochlear sensitivity and is involved in the processing of binaural level differences for sound localization. Understanding how the LSO contributes to these processes requires knowledge about the resident cells and their connections with other auditory structures. We used standard histological stains and retrograde tracer injections into the inferior colliculus (IC) and cochlea in order to characterize two basic groups of neurons: (1) Principal and periolivary (PO) neurons have projections to the IC as part of the ascending auditory pathway; and (2) lateral olivocochlear (LOC) intrinsic and shell efferents have descending projections to the cochlea. Principal and intrinsic neurons are intermixed within the LSO, exhibit fusiform somata, and have disk-shaped dendritic arborizations. The principal neurons have bilateral, symmetric, and tonotopic projections to the IC. The intrinsic efferents have strictly ipsilateral projections, known to be tonotopic from previous publications. PO and shell neurons represent much smaller populations (<10% of principal and intrinsic neurons, respectively), have multipolar somata, reside outside the LSO, and have non-topographic, bilateral projections. PO and shell neurons appear to have widespread projections to their targets that imply a more diffuse modulatory function. The somata and dendrites of principal and intrinsic neurons form a laminar matrix within the LSO and share quantifiably similar alignment to the tonotopic axis. Their restricted projections emphasize the importance of frequency in binaural processing and efferent control for auditory perception. This study addressed and expanded on previous findings of cell types, circuit laterality, and projection tonotopy in the LSO of the mouse.
Clinical and genetic study of a Chinese family affected by both amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Li Shirong , Lin Junyu , Li Chunyu , Chen Yongping , Cao Bei , Yang Tianmi , Wei Qianqian , Zhao Bi , Chen Xueping , Shang Huifang
Published: October 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of the upper and lower motor neurons from the motor cortex, brainstem, and spinal cord. Most ALS cases are sporadic, with 5–10% having a positive family history. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a heritable renal disease that eventually results in end-stage kidney disease. PKD1 is the most prevalent causative gene for ADPKD, accounting for ~85% of cases. Both diseases are currently considered untreatable. In this study, we report a large family that includes 10 patients with ALS phenotype, 3 asymptomatic SOD1-H47R carriers, and 6 with the ADPKD phenotype. Using whole exome sequencing, we found a novel likely pathogenic variant (p.R2787P) in PKD1 among patients with ADPKD, and a pathogenic variant (p.H47R) in SOD1 among patients with ALS. This study highlights the possibility that two different autosomal dominantly inherited diseases can co-exist independently within the same family. Phenotype—genotype correlations among these patients are also described. This research contributes novel phenotype and genotype characteristics of ALS with SOD1 mutations and ADPKD with PKD1 mutations.
Can cochlear implantation prevent cognitive decline in the long-term follow-up?
Authors: Völter Christiane , Götze Lisa , Kamin Stefan Thomas , Haubitz Imme , Dazert Stefan , Thomas Jan Peter
Published: October 2022

Cognitive function and hearing are known to both decline in older adults. As hearing loss is proposed to be one modifiable risk factor for dementia, the impact of auditory rehabilitation on cognitive decline has been gaining increasing attention. Despite a large number of studies, long-term data are still rare. In a large prospective longitudinal monocentric study, 50 adults (aged ≥ 50 years) with severe postlingual bilateral hearing loss received a cochlear implant (CI). They underwent comprehensive neurocognitive testing prior to implantation (T1), at 12 months (T2) and up to 65 months (T3) after implantation. Various cognitive subdomains such as attention, inhibition, working memory, verbal fluency, mental flexibility and (delayed) recall were assessed by the computer-based non-auditory test battery ALAcog©. The observed trajectories of two exemplary cognitive subdomains (delayed recall and working memory) were then fitted over time using multilevel growth models to adjust for sociodemographic covariates and compared with 5-year longitudinal data from a sample of older adults from the representative Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) study. Postoperatively, auditory functions improved from 6.98% (SD 12.83) to 57.29% (SD 20.18) in monosyllabic speech understanding. Cognitive functions significantly increased from T1 to T3 in attention (p = 0.001), delayed recall (p = 0.001), working memory (OSPAN; p = 0.001), verbal fluency (p = 0.004), and inhibition (p = 0.002). A closer look at follow-up revealed that cognitive improvement could be detected between T1 and T2 and thereafter remained stable in all subtests (p ≥ 0.06). Additional longitudinal analysis confirmed these findings in a rigorous multilevel approach in two exemplary cognitive subdomains. In contrast to the SHARE data, there was no evidence for age-differential associations over time in CI recipients. This suggests that older adults benefit equally from cochlear implantation. CI users with worse preoperative cognitive skills experienced the most benefit (p < 0.0001). Auditory rehabilitation by cochlear implantation has a stimulating effect on cognitive functions beyond an improvement in speech understanding and an increased well-being. Large multicenter studies using standardized protocols have to be undertaken in the future to find out whether hearing restoration might help to prevent cognitive decline.
Effects of variability in manually contoured spinal cord masks on fMRI co-registration and interpretation
Authors: Hoggarth Mark A. , Wang Max C. , Hemmerling Kimberly J. , Vigotsky Andrew D. , Smith Zachary A. , Parrish Todd B. , Weber Kenneth A. , Bright Molly G.
Published: October 2022

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of the human spinal cord (SC) is a unique non-invasive method for characterizing neurovascular responses to stimuli. Group-analysis of SC fMRI data involves co-registration of subject-level data to standard space, which requires manual masking of the cord and may result in bias of group-level SC fMRI results. To test this, we examined variability in SC masks drawn in fMRI data from 21 healthy participants from a completed study mapping responses to sensory stimuli of the C7 dermatome. Masks were drawn on temporal mean functional image by eight raters with varying levels of neuroimaging experience, and the rater from the original study acted as a reference. Spatial agreement between rater and reference masks was measured using the Dice Similarity Coefficient, and the influence of rater and dataset was examined using ANOVA. Each rater's masks were used to register functional data to the PAM50 template. Gray matter-white matter signal contrast of registered functional data was used to evaluate the spatial normalization accuracy across raters. Subject- and group-level analyses of activation during left- and right-sided sensory stimuli were performed for each rater's co-registered data. Agreement with the reference SC mask was associated with both rater (F(7, 140) = 32.12, P < 2 × 10−16, η2 = 0.29) and dataset (F(20, 140) = 20.58, P < 2 × 10−16, η2 = 0.53). Dataset variations may reflect image quality metrics: the ratio between the signal intensity of spinal cord voxels and surrounding cerebrospinal fluid was correlated with DSC results (p < 0.001). As predicted, variability in the manually-drawn masks influenced spatial normalization, and GM:WM contrast in the registered data showed significant effects of rater and dataset (rater: F(8, 160) = 23.57, P < 2 × 10−16, η2 = 0.24; dataset: F(20, 160) = 22.00, P < 2 × 10−16, η2 = 0.56). Registration differences propagated into subject-level activation maps which showed rater-dependent agreement with the reference. Although group-level activation maps differed between raters, no systematic bias was identified. Increasing consistency in manual contouring of spinal cord fMRI data improved co-registration and inter-rater agreement in activation mapping, however our results suggest that improvements in image acquisition and post-processing are also critical to address.
Classification of tumor from computed tomography images: A brain-inspired multisource transfer learning under probability distribution adaptation
Authors: Liu Yu , Cui Enming
Published: October 2022

Preoperative diagnosis of gastric cancer and primary gastric lymphoma is challenging and has important clinical significance. Inspired by the inductive reasoning learning of the human brain, transfer learning can improve diagnosis performance of target task by utilizing the knowledge learned from the other domains (source domain). However, most studies focus on single-source transfer learning and may lead to model performance degradation when a large domain shift exists between the single-source domain and target domain. By simulating the multi-modal information learning and transfer mechanism of human brain, this study designed a multisource transfer learning feature extraction and classification framework, which can enhance the prediction performance of the target model by using multisource medical data (domain). First, this manuscript designs a feature extraction network that takes the maximum mean difference based on the Wasserstein distance as an adaptive measure of probability distribution and extracts the domain-specific invariant representations between source and target domain data. Then, aiming at the random generation of parameters bringing uncertainties to prediction accuracy and generalization ability of extreme learning machine network, the 1-norm regularization is used to implement sparse constraints of the output weight matrix and improve the robustness of the model. Finally, some experiments are carried out on the data of two medical centers. The experimental results show that the area under curves (AUCs) of the method are 0.958 and 0.929 in the two validation cohorts, respectively. The method in this manuscript can provide doctors with a better diagnostic reference, which has certain practical significance.
An updated analysis of the association between CD2-associated protein gene rs9349407 polymorphism and Alzheimer’s disease in Chinese population
Authors: Gao Shan , Hao Jia-wei , Zhao Ya-nan , Li Xuan , Wang Tao , Han Zhi-fa , Sun Bao-liang , Sun Jing-yi , Liu Gui-you
Published: October 2022

Background

Since 2011, three large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have confirmed that the CD2AP rs9349407 polymorphism is significantly connected with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in individuals of European descent. Subsequently, this association has been replicated in European populations, but is unclear whether it can be replicated in Chinese. Recently, the correlation between rs9349407 and AD in the Chinese population has become a research hotspot.

Objective

To explore the association between rs9349407 polymorphism and AD in the Chinese population.

Materials and methods

Firstly, based on the exclusion and inclusion criteria, we selected 11 independent studies from 8 articles exploring the correlation between rs9349407 variation and AD in Chinese. Secondly, we conducted a meta-analysis based on fixed and random effect models and conducted a heterogeneity test. Thirdly, we used the additive model, dominant model, and recessive model for subgroup analysis.

Results

We demonstrated that the CD2AP rs9349407 polymorphism increases AD susceptibility in Chinese populations (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.08–1.64, P = 7.45E-03), which is consistent with the effect observed in Caucasian populations. Additionally, subgroup analysis showed that rs9349407 under the additive model (GG + CC vs. GC, OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.61–0.97, P = 2.04E-02) and dominant model (GG + GC vs. CC, OR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.32–0.74, P = 8.51E-04) were also significantly correlated with AD susceptibility, but not under the recessive model (GG vs. GC + CC, OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.58–1.03, P = 7.44E-02).

Conclusion

These existing data suggest that rs9349307 is significantly correlated with the susceptibility to AD in the Chinese population, but future studies with large samples are needed to confirm our findings.
Abnormal cerebellar-prefrontal cortical pathways in obstructive sleep apnea with/without mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Shu Yongqiang , Chen Liting , Li Kunyao , Li Haijun , Kong Linghong , Liu Xiang , Li Panmei , Xie Wei , Zeng Yaping , Peng Dechang
Published: October 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common respiratory sleep disorder, is often associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which is a precursor stage to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the neuroimaging changes in patients with OSA with/without MCI are still under discussion. This study aimed to investigate the temporal variability of spontaneous brain activity in OSA. Fifty-two OSA patients (26 with OSA with MCI (OSA-MCI), 26 OSA without MCI (OSA-nMCI), and 26 healthy controls (HCs) underwent MRI scans and scale questionnaires. A dynamic amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (dALFF) evaluation was performed to examine the time-varying nature of OSA-MCI and OSA-nMCI. Compared with OSA-MCI, OSA-nMCI had increased dALFF in the posterior cerebellar and right superior frontal gyrus; compared with HCs, OSA-nMCI patients showed increased dALFF in the right posterior cerebellum. A positive correlation between the bilateral posterior cerebellar lobes and right superior frontal gyrus was observed in OSA-MCI patients; however, in OSA-nMCI patients, a positive correlation was observed only between the bilateral posterior cerebellar lobes. The dALFF value of the left posterior cerebellar lobe was positively correlated with the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) score, and arousal index in OSA-nMCIs, while the dALFF value of the right posterior cerebellum was positively correlated with the AHI and negatively correlated with the lowest oxygen saturation (SaO2). This study argues that OSA-nMCIs and OSA-MCIs exhibit different temporal variabilities in dynamic brain functions, OSA-nMCIs may have variable intermediate states. We concluded that the functional abnormalities of the cerebellar-prefrontal cortex pathway in OSA-MCIs may cause cognitive impairment with OSA.
Physical activity and exercise alter cognitive abilities, and brain structure and activity in obese children
Authors: Shao Xueyun , Tan Li Hai , He Longfei
Published: October 2022

The prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing to such an extent that it has become a major global public health problem in the 21st century. Obesity alters children’s brain structure and activity and impairs their cognitive abilities. On the basis of these findings, it is necessary for educational and healthcare institutions to combat childhood obesity through preventive and therapeutic strategies. In general, exercise and physical activity are considered common but effective methods for improving physical, psychological, and brain health across the life span. Therefore, this review article mainly focuses on existing neuroimaging studies that have used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)to assess children’s brain anatomy and neural activity. We intended to explore the roles of physical activity and exercise in modulating the associations among childhood obesity, cognitive abilities, and the structure and activity of the brain.
Functional connectivity impairment of thalamus-cerebellum-scratching neural circuits in pruritus of chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Zhang Leixiao , Zou Zihao , Yu Siyi , Xiao Xianjun , Shi Yunzhou , Cao Wei , Liu Ying , Zheng Hui , Zheng Qianhua , Zhou Siyuan , Yao Junpeng , Deng Yanli , Yang Qian , Chen Sijue , Hao Pingsheng , Li Ning , Li Ying
Published: October 2022

Pruritus of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is one of the most common and irritating sensations that severely affects the quality of life. However, the changes in the functional connectivity (FC) between thalamic subregions and other brain regions have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the potential changes in brain neural circuits by focusing on various subregions of the thalamus in patients with CSU pruritus to contribute to the understanding of chronic pruritus from the perspective of central mechanisms. A total of 56 patients with CSU and 30 healthy controls (HCs) completed the data analysis. Urticaria Activity Score 7 (UAS7), pruritus visual analog score (VAS-P), Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI), and immunoglobulin E (IgE) values were collected to assess clinical symptoms. Seed-based resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC) analysis was used to assess relevant changes in the neural circuits of the brain. Compared to HCs, seeds within the caudal temporal thalamus (cTtha) on the right side of patients with CSU showed increased rs-FC with the cerebellum anterior lobe (CAL). Seeds within the lateral prefrontal thalamus (lPFtha) on the right side showed increased rs-FC with both CAL and pons, while those within the medial prefrontal thalamus (mPFtha) on the right side showed increased rs-FC with both CAL and the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) on the right side. Seeds within the posterior parietal thalamus (PPtha) on the right side showed increased rs-FC with the cerebellum posterior lobe (CPL) on the left side. The UAS7 values and IgE levels were positively correlated with the rs-FC of the right dlPFC. Our results suggest that patients with CSU may exhibit stronger rs-FC alterations between certain thalamic subregions and other brain regions. These changes affect areas of the brain involved in sensorimotor and scratching.

Trial registration number

[http://www.chictr.org.cn], identifier [ChiCTR1900022994].
Fronto-medial electrode placement for electroconvulsive treatment of depression
Authors: Steele J. Douglas , Farnan Tom , Semple David M. , Bai Siwei
Published: October 2022

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for severe treatment-resistant depression but concern about cognitive side-effects, particularly memory loss, limits its use. Recent observational studies on large groups of patients who have received ECT report that cognitive side-effects were associated with electric field (EF) induced increases in hippocampal volume, whereas therapeutic efficacy was associated with EF induced increases in sagittal brain structures. The aim in the present study was to determine whether a novel fronto-medial (FM) ECT electrode placement would minimize electric fields in bilateral hippocampi (HIP) whilst maximizing electric fields in dorsal sagittal cortical regions. An anatomically detailed computational head model was used with finite element analysis, to calculate ECT-induced electric fields in specific brain regions identified by translational neuroimaging studies of treatment-resistant depressive illness, for a range of electrode placements. As hypothesized, compared to traditional bitemporal (BT) electrode placement, a specific FM electrode placement reduced bilateral hippocampal electric fields two-to-three-fold, whilst the electric fields in the dorsal anterior cingulate (dAC) were increased by approximately the same amount. We highlight the clinical relevance of this specific FM electrode placement for ECT, which may significantly reduce cognitive and non-cognitive side-effects and suggest a clinical trial is indicated.
Gene regulatory and gene editing tools and their applications for retinal diseases and neuroprotection: From proof-of-concept to clinical trial
Authors: Altay Halit Yusuf , Ozdemir Fatma , Afghah Ferdows , Kilinc Zeynep , Ahmadian Mehri , Tschopp Markus , Agca Cavit
Published: October 2022

Gene editing and gene regulatory fields are continuously developing new and safer tools that move beyond the initial CRISPR/Cas9 technology. As more advanced applications are emerging, it becomes crucial to understand and establish more complex gene regulatory and editing tools for efficient gene therapy applications. Ophthalmology is one of the leading fields in gene therapy applications with more than 90 clinical trials and numerous proof-of-concept studies. The majority of clinical trials are gene replacement therapies that are ideal for monogenic diseases. Despite Luxturna’s clinical success, there are still several limitations to gene replacement therapies including the size of the target gene, the choice of the promoter as well as the pathogenic alleles. Therefore, further attempts to employ novel gene regulatory and gene editing applications are crucial to targeting retinal diseases that have not been possible with the existing approaches. CRISPR-Cas9 technology opened up the door for corrective gene therapies with its gene editing properties. Advancements in CRISPR-Cas9-associated tools including base modifiers and prime editing already improved the efficiency and safety profile of base editing approaches. While base editing is a highly promising effort, gene regulatory approaches that do not interfere with genomic changes are also becoming available as safer alternatives. Antisense oligonucleotides are one of the most commonly used approaches for correcting splicing defects or eliminating mutant mRNA. More complex gene regulatory methodologies like artificial transcription factors are also another developing field that allows targeting haploinsufficiency conditions, functionally equivalent genes, and multiplex gene regulation. In this review, we summarized the novel gene editing and gene regulatory technologies and highlighted recent translational progress, potential applications, and limitations with a focus on retinal diseases.
Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on sequelae in patients with chronic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Chen Gengbin , Wu Manfeng , Lin Tuo , Cai Guiyuan , Xu Jiayue , Ding Qian , Li Wanqi , Wu Cheng , Chen Hongying , Lan Yue
Published: October 2022

Background

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, with a large proportion of survivors suffering from motor dysfunction and neuropsychiatric sequelae. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a promising stroke rehabilitation intervention and is effective in improving neurological system function in stroke patients. In the current systemic review and meta-analysis, an overview of the most recent studies regarding the effectiveness of rTMS's potential to help chronic stroke patients recover from sequelae was provided.

Methods

Relevant randomized controlled trials were retrieved from three online databases (Web of Science, Medline, and Embase). A total of 25 RCTs (N = 535 participants) were included. A meta-analysis was performed using a fixed-effects model or a random-effects model, and effect sizes were reported as weighted mean differences or standardized mean differences.

Results

Administration of rTMS significantly improved upper limb function, hand function, and muscle tone in stroke patients throughout the chronic phase [≥6 months], but not lower limb mobility and strength. In terms of cognitive function, rTMS has a considerable positive impact on patients' cognitive performance. rTMS also alleviated apathy in stroke patients more than post-stroke depressive symptoms regarding mental functioning. Balance and walking function, as well as functional activities of daily living, of patients were dramatically improved by rTMS. However, the current conclusions should be taken carefully due to the small sample size of the meta-analysis.

Conclusions

This is the first meta-analysis of rTMS treatment in patients with chronic stroke to inform the selection of the optimal treatment strategy for patients with chronic stroke, which demonstrated that rTMS treatment has the potential to improve the effects of sequelae by improving upper limb function, hand function, and muscle tone.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-7-0095/, identifier: INPLASY202270095.
Circadian and ultradian oscillations in bilateral rhythms of the crayfish chelipeds
Authors: Viccon-Pale José A.
Published: October 2022

Circadian systems are composed of multiple oscillatory elements that contain both circadian and ultradian oscillations. The relationships between these components maintain a stable temporal function in organisms. They provide a suitable phase to recurrent environmental changes and ensure a suitable temporal sequence of their own functions. Therefore, it is necessary to identify these interactions. Because a circadian rhythm of activity can be recorded in each crayfish cheliped, this paired organ system was used to address the possibility that two quasi-autonomous oscillators exhibiting both circadian and ultradian oscillations underlie these rhythms. The presence of both oscillations was found, both under entrainment and under freerunning. The following features of interactions between these circadian and ultradian oscillations were also observed: (a) circadian modal periods could be a feature of circadian oscillations under entrainment and freerunning; (b) the average period of the rhythm is a function of the proportions between the circadian and ultradian oscillations; (c) the release of both populations of oscillations of Zeitgeber effect results in the maintenance or an increase in their number and frequency under freerunning conditions. These circadian rhythms of activity can be described as mixed probability distributions containing circadian oscillations, individual ultradian oscillations, and ultradian oscillations of Gaussian components. Relationships among these elements can be structured in one of the following six probability distributions: Inverse Gaussian, gamma, Birnbaum–Saunders, Weibull, smallest extreme value, or Laplace. It should be noted that at one end of this order, the inverse Gaussian distribution most often fits the freerunning rhythm segments and at the other end, the Laplace distribution fits only the segments under entrainment. The possible relationships between the circadian and ultradian oscillations of crayfish motor activity rhythms and between the probability distributions of their periodograms are discussed. Also listed are some oscillators that could interact with cheliped rhythms.
Uridine affects amino acid metabolism in sow-piglets model and increases viability of pTr2 cells
Authors: Wang Hong-ling , Liu Yilin , Zhou Tiantian , Gao Lumin , Li Jianxi , Wu Xin , Yin Yu-long
Published: October 2022

Background

As an important nucleoside precursor in salvage synthesis pathway of uridine monophosphate, uridine (UR) is the most abundant nucleotide in sow milk. This study aimed to investigate the effects of maternal UR supplementation during second trimester of gestation on reproductive performance and amino acid metabolism of Sows.

Results

Results showed that compared to CON group, the average number of stillborn piglets per litter was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) with higher average piglet weight at birth in UR group (P = 0.083). Besides, dietary UR supplementation significantly increased TP in sow serum, BUN content in cord serum, and TP and ALB in newborn piglet serum (P < 0.05); but decreased AST level in sow serum and BUN level in piglet serum (P < 0.05). Importantly, free amino acids profile in sow serum newborn piglet serum and colostrum was changed by maternal UR supplementation during day 60 of pregnancy, as well as the expression of amino acids transporter (P < 0.05). In addition, from 100 to 2,000 μM UR can increased the viability of pTr2 cells. The UR exhibited higher distribution of G1/M phase of cell cycle at 400 μM compared with 0 μM, and reduced S-phases of cell cycle compared with 0 and 100μM (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Supplementation of uridine during day 60 of pregnancy can improve reproductive performance, regulate amino acid metabolism of sows and their offspring, and increase the viability of pTr2 cells.
Nutritional factors influencing microbiota-mediated colonization resistance of the oral cavity: A literature review
Authors: Akimbekov Nuraly S. , Digel Ilya , Yerezhepov Adil Y. , Shardarbek Raiymbek S. , Wu Xia , Zha Jian
Published: October 2022

The oral cavity is a key biocenosis for many distinct microbial communities that interact with both the external environment and internal body systems. The oral microbiota is a vital part of the human microbiome. It has been developed through mutual interactions among the environment, host physiological state, and microbial community composition. Indigenious microbiota of the oral cavity is one of the factors that prevent adhesion and invasion of pathogens on the mucous membrane, i.e., the development of the infectious process and thereby participating in the implementation of one of the mechanisms of local immunity–colonization resistance. The balance between bacterial symbiosis, microbial virulence, and host resistance ensures the integrity of the oral cavity. In this review we have tried to address how nutritional factors influence integrity of the oral indigenous microbiota and its involvement in colonization resistance.
Study on the effect of koumiss on reactivation of Toxoplasma gondii infection
Authors: Yan Xinlei , Sun Yufei , Yu Xiuli , Gao Jialu , Wang Hejing , Liang Ru , Han Wenying , Jin Xindong , Guo Wenhui , Liu Pufang , Chen Jia
Published: October 2022

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that infects nucleated cells of all warm-blooded animals, and most patients have latent infections. The latent infection will be reactivated in the immunocompromised or immunocompromised individuals, which will lead to severe toxoplasmosis. At present, less research has been focused on the reactivation of T. gondii infection. Koumiss is a kind of fermented milk made from fresh mare’s milk through natural fermentation that can be applied to clinical and rehabilitation medicine to mitigate the development of various diseases due to its unique functional characteristics. In this study, we explored the antagonistic effect of koumiss on reactivation of T. gondii infection. Mice were treated with dexamethasone to establish a reactivation model after infection with T. gondii and then treated with koumiss. The survival rate, SHIRPA test, serum cytokine levels, organ parasite burden and intestinal microbiota were measured, respectively. Our results showed that koumiss treatment improved the clinical symptoms of mice, significantly reduced the organ parasite burden of mice, and improved the composition and structure of intestinal flora. This study provides new evidence for the alleviation and treatment of toxoplasmosis and provides a novel idea for the development and utilization of koumiss.
Food insecurity as a risk factor of sarcopenic obesity in older adults
Authors: Fonseca-Pérez Diana , Arteaga-Pazmiño Cecilia , Maza-Moscoso Claudia P. , Flores-Madrid Sara , Álvarez-Córdova Ludwig
Published: October 2022

Sarcopenic obesity is characterized by the loss of muscle strength, mass and muscle functionality and increased adipose tissue (obesity) according to different criteria and cut-off points. The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity among older adults is growing worldwide, and many factors are involved in its development. Diet and food security have been described as the main contributors to the development of obesity and sarcopenia. Food insecurity consists of limited or uncertain access to adequate and nutritious foods. This narrative review aims to summarize the existing data on food insecurity as a risk factor for sarcopenic obesity in the elderly.
Assessing the association of sustainable agriculture with rural household food security (considering ecological, economic, and social aspects)
Authors: Sahraei Salman , Pakravan-Charvadeh Mohammad Reza , Gholamrezai Saeed , Rahimian Mehdi
Published: October 2022

Due to the importance of sustainability in the world, we follow the missing pieces of the puzzle of sustainable agriculture and food security as a huge gap in the literature. To achieve this goal, a survey was analyzed to assess the linkage between these two concepts in the rural areas in Lorestan province in Iran. The status of food security was assessed using US Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM). A standard questionnaire extracted from the related literature was applied to calculate sustainability indicators. The results showed that the status of food security among households with no children (70%) was better than those with one or more children (28%). According to the Tobit model, none of the sustainability dimensions had a significant association with food insecurity. The results support the fact that the assessment of agricultural sustainability at the microeconomic level, short-term period, and a small, specified location cannot lead to reliable results due to the similar behaviors of farmers in these areas. The low level of agricultural sustainability is due to the lack of macroeconomic policies in the region to promote and disseminate the principles of sustainability, lack of plans and actions to promote sustainability by stakeholders and policymakers, ignorance of the target community, as subsistence producers who fall into a deprivation trap. The results suggest that policymakers should use two short-term and long-term strategies to improve the level of agricultural sustainability and increase food security status.
Resistant starch type-4 intake alters circulating bile acids in human subjects
Authors: Dhakal Samitinjaya , Dey Moul
Published: October 2022

Background

Resistant starch (RS) type 4 (RS4) is a type of RS, a class of non-digestible prebiotic dietary fibers with a range of demonstrated metabolic health benefits to the host. On the other hand, bile acids (BA) have recently emerged as an important class of metabolic function mediators that involve host-microbiota interactions. RS consumption alters fecal and cecal BA in humans and rodents, respectively. The effect of RS intake on circulating BA concentrations remains unexplored in humans.

Methods and results

Using available plasma and stool samples from our previously reported double-blind, controlled, 2-arm crossover nutrition intervention trial (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01887964), a liquid-chromatography/mass-spectrometry-based targeted multiple reaction monitoring, and absolute quantifications, we assessed BA changes after 12 weeks of an average 12 g/day RS4-intake. Stool BA concentrations were lower post RS4 compared to the control, the two groups consuming similar macronutrients (n = 14/group). Partial least squares-discriminant analysis revealed distinct BA signatures in stool and plasma post interventions. The increased circulating BA concentrations were further investigated using linear mixed-effect modeling that controlled for potential confounders. A higher plasma abundance of several BA species post RS4 was observed (fold increase compared to control in parenthesis): taurocholic acid (1.92), taurodeoxycholic acid (1.60), glycochenodeoxycholic acid (1.58), glycodeoxycholic acid (1.79), and deoxycholic acid (1.77) (all, p < 0.05). Distinct microbiome ortholog-signatures were observed between RS4 and control groups (95% CI), derived using the Piphillin function-prediction algorithm and principal component analysis (PCA) of pre-existing 16S rRNA gene sequences. Association of Bifidobacterium adolescentis with secondary BA such as, deoxycholic acid (rho = 0.55, p = 0.05), glycodeoxycholic acid (rho = 0.65, p = 0.02), and taurodeoxycholic acid (rho = 0.56, p = 0.04) were observed in the RS4-group, but not in the control group (all, p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our observations indicate a previously unknown in humans- RS4-associated systemic alteration of microbiota-derived secondary BA. Follow-up investigations of BA biosynthesis in the context of RS4 may provide molecular targets to understand and manipulate microbiome-host interactions.