bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Site and provenance interact to influence seasonal diameter growth of Pseudotsuga menziesii
Authors: Harrington Constance A. , Gould Peter J. , Cronn Richard
Published: July 2023

Phenology of diameter growth in trees has been studied for many years but generally using a limited number of sites and genotypes. In this project provenances of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii) planted across a wide range of environments were used to evaluate diameter growth and phenology to an extreme heat event and to seasonal conditions. Sampling was done in nine common gardens in western Oregon and Washington, USA that included a coastal site, a low elevation interior site, and high elevation interior site on three latitude bands. In 2021, three provenances at four sites were monitored for late-season diameter growth following an extreme heat event in June. In 2022, five provenances were evaluated for full-seasonal diameter growth at four growth intervals across all nine sites. Growth after the 2021 extreme heat event varied by planting site, with the greatest growth observed at mild (cooler/wetter) sites and the least growth observed at arid (hotter/drier) sites. Comparisons of diameter growth over the late season period (i.e., July–October) showed that 2022 growth was 1.25-fold to 3.70-fold higher, presumably due to premature growth cessation in 2021. In 2022, diameter growth rates showed significant variation by site and provenance; the interaction between site and provenance was significant in all but the first growth interval. Intra-seasonal growth rates were not consistent across sites; there was substantial diameter growth early in the season on sites with continental climates, little diameter growth by any provenance after early August at three high elevation sites, and most sources continued growth later in the season at coastal sites. One source differed more in phenology across sites than the others, apparently due to its susceptibility to a needle-cast disease. Cambial phenology varied with genetic and site factors that control the timing of growth and intrinsic growth rates. In addition, the interaction between genotype and site resulted in some provenances performing better than others on some sites as a function of disease susceptibility or response to environmental factors. Understanding phenology of seed sources under a range of site conditions should help predict diameter growth under different climate conditions in the future.
Myeloid lineage cells evince distinct steady-state level of certain gene groups in dependence on hereditary angioedema severity
Authors: Ballonová Lucie , Souček Přemysl , Slanina Peter , Réblová Kamila , Zapletal Ondřej , Vlková Marcela , Hakl Roman , Bíly Viktor , Grombiříková Hana , Svobodová Eliška , Kulíšková Petra , Štíchová Julie , Sobotková Marta , Zachová Radana , Hanzlíková Jana , Vachová Martina , Králíčková Pavlína , Krčmová Irena , Jeseňák Miloš , Freiberger Tomáš
Published: July 2023

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disorder with variable expressivity even in carriers of the same underlying genetic defect, suggesting other genetic and epigenetic factors participate in modifying HAE severity. Recent knowledge indicates the role of immune cells in several aspects of HAE pathogenesis, which makes monocytes and macrophages candidates to mediate these effects. Here we combined a search for HAE phenotype modifying gene variants with the characterization of selected genes’ mRNA levels in monocyte and macrophages in a symptom-free period. While no such gene variant was found to be associated with a more severe or milder disease, patients revealed a higher number of dysregulated genes and their expression profile was significantly altered, which was typically manifested by changes in individual gene expression or by strengthened or weakened relations in mutually co-expressed gene groups, depending on HAE severity. SERPING1 showed decreased expression in HAE-C1INH patients, but this effect was significant only in patients carrying mutations supposedly activating nonsense-mediated decay. Pro-inflammatory CXC chemokine superfamily members CXCL8, 10 and 11 were downregulated, while other genes such as FCGR1A, or long non-coding RNA NEAT1 were upregulated in patients. Co-expression within some gene groups (such as an NF-kappaB function related group) was strengthened in patients with a severe and/or mild course compared to controls. All these findings show that transcript levels in myeloid cells achieve different activation or depression levels in HAE-C1INH patients than in healthy controls and/or based on disease severity and could participate in determining the HAE phenotype.
Impact of Plasmodium falciparum infection on DNA methylation of circulating immune cells
Authors: Almojil Dareen , Diawara Aïssatou , Soulama Issiaka , Dieng Mame Massar , Manikandan Vinu , Sermé Samuel S. , Sombié Salif , Diarra Amidou , Barry Aissata , Coulibaly Sam Aboubacar , Sirima Sodiomon B. , Idaghdour Youssef
Published: July 2023

The regulation of immune cell responses to infection is a complex process that involves various molecular mechanisms, including epigenetic regulation. DNA methylation has been shown to play central roles in regulating gene expression and modulating cell response during infection. However, the nature and extent to which DNA methylation is involved in the host immune response in human malaria remains largely unknown. Here, we present a longitudinal study investigating the temporal dynamics of genome-wide in vivo DNA methylation profiles using 189 MethylationEPIC 850 K profiles from 66 children in Burkina Faso, West Africa, sampled three times: before infection, during symptomatic parasitemia, and after malaria treatment. The results revealed major changes in the DNA methylation profiles of children in response to both Plasmodium falciparum infection and malaria treatment, with widespread hypomethylation of CpGs upon infection (82% of 6.8 K differentially methylated regions). We document a remarkable reversal of CpG methylation profiles upon treatment to pre-infection states. These changes implicate divergence in core immune processes, including the regulation of lymphocyte, neutrophil, and myeloid leukocyte function. Integrative DNA methylation-mRNA analysis of a top differentially methylated region overlapping the pro-inflammatory gene TNF implicates DNA methylation of TNF cis regulatory elements in the molecular mechanisms of TNF regulation in human malaria. Our results highlight a central role of epigenetic regulation in mounting the host immune response to P. falciparum infection and in response to malaria treatment.
Multi-b-values-fitting readout-segmentation of long variable echo-trains diffusion-weighted imaging (RESOLVE DWI) in evaluation of disease activity and curative effect of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA)
Authors: Chen Xianyuan , Yang Shengsheng , Lin Mingui , Gao Fei , Ma Mingping , Yu Shun
Published: July 2023

Background

Disease activity is relevant to the treatment and prognosis of axSpA, and methods to quantitatively assess disease activity and efficacy of axSpA are still being explored.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to find an optimal quantitative indicator for evaluating disease activity and curative effect of axSpA, using multi-b-values-fitting RESOLVE DWI.

Methods

The prospective study included 106 patients divided into axSpA group (n=89) and no-axSpA group (n=17) by Assessment of Spondyloarthritis international Society (ASAS) criteria. The axSpA group were divided into active group and inactive group according to ASDAS-CRP. The active group treated with systematic tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) was selected as treatment group (n=20). All patients underwent MRI examination of sacroiliac joints (SIJs), including RESOLVE DWI. The ADC values of subchondral bone marrow in SIJs were measured (ADC50,500 was b=50,500s/mm2 fitting, ADC50,700 was b=50,700s/mm2 fitting, and ADC50,500,700 was b=50,500,700s/mm2 fitting). By comparing the ADC values between different groups, a relatively optimal b-values-fitting sequence was obtained, further evaluating curative effect of the treatment group.

Resultd

The ADC values of axSpA group, inactive group and active group SIJs were all higher than those of no-axSpA group. The ADC values of active group SIJs were all higher than those of inactive group. ADC50,500,700 had the largest AUC, relative higher sensitivity and specificity while taking account of the image quality than ADC50,700 and ADC50,500 between different groups. In the treatment group, there was no significant difference in ADC values between pre-treatment and 3 weeks, 3 weeks and 6 weeks, 6 weeks and 12 weeks (all P>0.0083, Bonferroni-corrected threshold), while the decreased ADC values in the interval of 6 weeks or more were statistically significant (all P<0.0083, Bonferroni-corrected threshold).

Conclusion

Multi-b-values-fitting (b=50,500,700s/mm2) RESOLVE DWI has a certain advantage in evaluating disease activity of axSpA. It was worth noting that short-term review (3 weeks or less) of RESOLVE DWI was unsatisfactory and review at 6 weeks or later would help to evaluate curative effect of axSpA.
On the interpretation of changes in the subtropical oxygen minimum zone volume off Chile during two La Niña events (2001 and 2007)
Authors: Pizarro-Koch Matías , Pizarro Oscar , Dewitte Boris , Montes Ivonne , Paulmier Aurélien , Garçon Véronique , Sepulveda Hector Hito , Corredor-Acosta Andrea , Aguirre Catalina , Ramos Marcel
Published: July 2023

Oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) are extended oceanic regions for which dissolved oxygen concentration is extremely low. They are suspected to be expanding in response to global warming. However, currently, the mechanisms by which OMZ varies in response to climate variability are still uncertain. Here, the variability of the subtropical OMZ off central Chile of a regional coupled physical–biogeochemical regional model simulation was analyzed for the period 2000–2008, noting that its fluctuations were significant despite the relatively weak amplitude of the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO). In particular, the interannual variability in the OMZ volume (OMZVOL, defined as the volume with dissolved oxygen concentration (DO) ≤ 45μM) was approximately 38% larger than that of the seasonal cycle, with maximum and minimum anomalies of OMZVOL taking place during two cold La Niña (LN) years (2001 and 2007). The model analyses further reveal that these anomalies resulted from a combined effect of changes in (1) the oxygen-poor waters poleward transport by the Peru–Chile undercurrent (PCUC), (2) the intensity of quasi-zonal jets influencing the transport of water to and from the OMZ, and (3) the zonal DO transport related to mesoscale eddy activity. Specifically, the interannual variability of the PCUC modulated primarily the DO contents of the OMZ core [(DO) ≤ 20μM] and secondarily the OMZVOL, while cross-shore DO transport by the zonal jets and the eddy fluxes played a major role in ventilating and shaping the offshore extent of the OMZ. When the OMZVOL was maximum (minimum), the PCUC transport was slightly increased (reduced), which was associated with a reduction (increase) in the ventilation of the OMZ through negative (positive) anomalies of zonal advection and DO eddy fluxes. Our results demonstrate that significant natural interannual variability in the subtropical OMZ off Chile originates from the interplay between oceanic equatorial teleconnection (PCUC transport) and local non-linear dynamics (the zonal jets and mesoscale eddies).
Extracellular vesicles in atherosclerosis and vascular calcification: the versatile non-coding RNAs from endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Yu Fengyi , Duan Yingjie , Liu Chongmei , Huang Hong , Xiao Xiangcheng , He Zhangxiu
Published: July 2023

Atherosclerosis (AS) is characterized by the accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification in the innermost layers of arteries. Vascular calcification (VC), the deposition of calcium and phosphate within the arterial wall, is an important characteristic of AS natural history. However, medial arterial calcification (MAC) differs from intimal calcification and cannot simply be explained as the consequence of AS. Endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are directly involved in AS and VC processes. Understanding the communication between ECs and VSMCs is critical in revealing mechanisms underlying AS and VC. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are found as intercellular messengers in kinds of physiological processes and pathological progression. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) encapsulated in EVs are involved in AS and VC, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). The effects of ncRNAs have not been comprehensively understood, especially encapsulated in EVs. Some ncRNAs have demonstrated significant roles in AS and VC, but it remains unclear the functions of the majority ncRNAs detected in EVs. In this review, we summarize ncRNAs encapsulated in EC-EVs and VSMC-EVs, and the signaling pathways that are involved in AS and VC.
Zinc-solubilizing Bacillus spp. in conjunction with chemical fertilizers enhance growth, yield, nutrient content, and zinc biofortification in wheat crop
Authors: Yadav Ramesh Chandra , Sharma Sushil K. , Varma Ajit , Singh Udai B. , Kumar Adarsh , Bhupenchandra Ingudam , Rai Jai P. , Sharma Pawan K. , Singh Harsh V.
Published: July 2023

Micronutrient deficiency is a serious health issue in resource-poor human populations worldwide, which is responsible for the death of millions of women and underage children in most developing countries. Zinc (Zn) malnutrition in middle- and lower-class families is rampant when daily calorie intake of staple cereals contains extremely low concentrations of micronutrients, especially Zn and Fe. Looking at the importance of the problem, the present investigation aimed to enhance the growth, yield, nutrient status, and biofortification of wheat crop by inoculation of native zinc-solubilizing Bacillus spp. in conjunction with soil-applied fertilizers (NPK) and zinc phosphate in saline soil. In this study, 175 bacterial isolates were recovered from the rhizosphere of wheat grown in the eastern parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain of India. These isolates were further screened for Zn solubilization potential using sparingly insoluble zinc carbonate (ZnCO3), zinc oxide (ZnO), and zinc phosphate {Zn3(PO4)2} as a source of Zn under in vitro conditions. Of 175 bacterial isolates, 42 were found to solubilize either one or two or all the three insoluble Zn compounds, and subsequently, these isolates were identified based on 16S rRNA gene sequences. Based on zone halo diameter, solubilization efficiency, and amount of solubilized zinc, six potential bacterial strains, i.e., Bacillus altitudinis AJW-3, B. subtilis ABW-30, B. megaterium CHW-22, B. licheniformis MJW-38, Brevibacillus borstelensis CHW-2, and B. xiamenensis BLW-7, were further shortlisted for pot- and field-level evaluation in wheat crop. The results of the present investigation clearly indicated that these inoculants not only increase plant growth but also enhance the yield and yield attributes. Furthermore, bacterial inoculation also enhanced available nutrients and microbial activity in the wheat rhizosphere under pot experiments. It was observed that the application of B. megaterium CHW-22 significantly increased the Zn content in wheat straw and grains along with other nutrients (N, P, K, Fe, Cu, and Mn) followed by B. licheniformis MJW-38 as compared to other inoculants. By and large, similar observations were recorded under field conditions. Interestingly, when comparing the nutrient use efficiency (NUE) of wheat, bacterial inoculants showed their potential in enhancing the NUE in a greater way, which was further confirmed by correlation and principal component analyses. This study apparently provides evidence of Zn biofortification in wheat upon bacterial inoculation in conjunction with chemical fertilizers and zinc phosphate in degraded soil under both nethouse and field conditions.
Bioinformatic mining for RiPP biosynthetic gene clusters in Bacteroidales reveals possible new subfamily architectures and novel natural products
Authors: Fernandez-Cantos Maria Victoria , Garcia-Morena Diego , Yi Yunhai , Liang Lifeng , Gómez-Vázquez Emilio , Kuipers Oscar P.
Published: July 2023

The Bacteroidales order, widely distributed among diverse human populations, constitutes a key component of the human microbiota. Members of this Gram-negative order have been shown to modulate the host immune system, play a fundamental role in the gut’s microbial food webs, or be involved in pathogenesis. Bacteria inhabiting such a complex environment as the human microbiome are expected to display social behaviors and, hence, possess factors that mediate cooperative and competitive interactions. Different types of molecules can mediate interference competition, including non-ribosomal peptides (NRPs), polyketides, and bacteriocins. The present study investigates the potential of Bacteroidales bacteria to biosynthesize class I bacteriocins, which are ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs). For this purpose, 1,136 genome-sequenced strains from this order were mined using BAGEL4. A total of 1,340 areas of interest (AOIs) were detected. The most commonly identified enzymes involved in RiPP biosynthesis were radical S-adenosylmethionine (rSAM), either alone or in combination with other biosynthetic enzymes such as YcaO. A more comprehensive analysis of a subset of 9 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) revealed a consistent association in Bacteroidales BGCs between peptidase-containing ATP-binding transporters (PCATs) and precursor peptides with GG-motifs. This finding suggests a possibly shared mechanism for leader peptide cleavage and transport of mature products. Notably, human metagenomic studies showed a high prevalence and abundance of the RiPP BGCs from Phocaeicola vulgatus and Porphyromonas gulae. The mature product of P. gulae BGC is hypothesized to display γ-thioether linkages and a C-terminal backbone amidine, a potential new combination of post-translational modifications (PTM). All these findings highlight the RiPP biosynthetic potential of Bacteroidales bacteria, as a rich source of novel peptide structures of possible relevance in the human microbiome context.
O-GlcNAcylation regulates extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ephrame Sophiya John , Cork Gentry K. , Marshall Victoria , Johnston Margaret A. , Shawa Jenna , Alghusen Ibtihal , Qiang Amy , Denson Aspin R. , Carman Marisa S. , Fedosyuk Halyna , Swerdlow Russell H. , Slawson Chad
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Aberrant activation of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase (ERK) signaling is associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. For example, enhanced ERK signal activation mediated by Apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4), which is a critical genetic risk factor for AD, increases the transcription of amyloid precursor protein (APP). We hypothesize that O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) regulates the phosphorylation and activation of ERK. O-GlcNAc is a single sugar post-translational modification that dynamically cycles on and off proteins in response to nutrient changes by the action of the enzymes O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and O-GlcNAcase (OGA), respectively. However, O-GlcNAc quickly returns to a baseline level after stimulus removal (called O-GlcNAc homeostasis).

Methods

We did a serum reactivation time-course followed by western blot in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells after long-term O-GlcNAcase (OGA) inhibition by Thiamet-G (TMG) treatment, O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) knock-down (KD) and OGA KD. Brain tissues of C57BL6/J mice and 5XFAD Alzheimer’s disease mice intra-peritoneally injected with TMG for 1 month and C57BL6/J mice intra-peritoneally injected with TMG for 6 months were also used for western blot.

Results

We found that ERK1/2 phosphorylation at Thr 202/Tyr204 and Thr183/Tyr185 (p-ERK) are amplified and hence ERK1/2 are activated after long-term OGA inhibition in SH-SY5Y cells. In addition to pharmacological treatment, genetic disruption of O-GlcNAc by OGT KD and OGA KD also increased p-ERK in SH-SY5Y cells suggesting O-GlcNAc homeostasis controls ERK signaling. To determine how O-GlcNAc regulates p-ERK, we probed the expression of phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase-kinase (p-MEK) which phosphorylates and activates ERK and Dual specificity phosphatase-4 (DUSP4) which dephosphorylates and inactivates ERK in SH-SY5Y cells. p-MEK increases in TMG treated and OGT KD cells whereas total DUSP4 decreases in OGT KD and OGA KD cells with serum reactivation time course. Next, we probed the role of OGA inhibition in regulating ERK activation using mice brain-tissue samples. Interestingly, 6-month intra-peritoneal TMG injection in C57BL/6J mice showed an increase in amplitude of p-ERK and APP protein levels, indicating long-term OGA inhibition potentially contributes to AD progression. Furthermore, 1-month TMG injection was sufficient to increase the amplitude of p-ERK in 5XFAD AD mice brains suggesting AD phenotype contributes to the acceleration of ERK activation mediated by OGA inhibition.

Conclusion

Together, these results indicate that disruptions to O-GlcNAc homeostasis amplify ERK signal activation in AD.
Lycium barbarum glycopetide prolong lifespan and alleviate Parkinson’s disease in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zheng Jingming , Luo Zhenhuan , Chiu Kin , Li Yimin , Yang Jing , Zhou Qinghua , So Kwok-Fai , Wan Qin-Li
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Lycium barbarum glycopeptide (LbGp) is the main bioactive compound extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine. L. barbarum berries and has been proven to have numerous health benefits, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and cytoprotective activities. However, the antiaging effect of LbGp remains unknown.

Methods

The lifespan and body movement of C. elegans were used to evaluate the effect of LbGp on lifespan and health span. The thrashing assay was used to determine the role of LbGp in Parkinson’s disease. To investigate the mechanisms of LbGp-induced antiaging effects, we analyzed changes in lifespan, movement, and the expression of longevity-related genes in a series of worm mutants after LbGp treatment.

Results

We found that LbGp treatment prolonged the lifespan and health span of C. elegans. Mechanistically, we found that LbGp could activate the transcription factors DAF-16/FOXO, SKN-1/Nrf2, and HSF-1, as well as the nuclear receptor DAF-12, thereby upregulating longevity-related genes to achieve lifespan extension. In addition, we found that the lifespan extension induced by LbGp partially depends on mitochondrial function. Intriguingly, LbGp also ameliorated neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease in a DAF-16-, SKN-1-, and HSF-1-dependent manner.

Conclusion

Our work suggests that LbGp might be a viable candidate for the treatment and prevention of aging and age-related diseases.
Ca2+-stimulated ADCY1 and ADCY8 regulate distinct aspects of synaptic and cognitive flexibility
Authors: Zhang Ming , Wang Hongbing
Published: July 2023

The type 1 and 8 adenylyl cyclase (ADCY1 and ADCY8) exclusively account for Ca2+-stimulated cyclic AMP (cAMP) production and regulate activity-dependent synaptic modification. In this study, we examined distinct forms of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus of Adcy1−/− and Adcy8−/− mice. We found that, at the Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses, while the Adcy8−/− mice displayed normal long-term potentiation (LTP) following various induction protocols with high-frequency stimulation (HFS), the Adcy1−/− mice showed protocol-dependent deficits in LTP. We also found that long-term depression (LTD) requires ADCY1 but not ADCY8. Interestingly, both Adcy1−/− and Adcy8−/− mice showed defective synaptic depotentiation (i.e., activity-dependent reversal of LTP); the deficits in Adcy8−/− mice were dependent on the induction protocol. Examination of spatial memory found that ADCY1 is required for the formation of both initial and reversal memory. ADCY8 is only required for reversal memory formation. These data demonstrate that ADCY1 and ADCY8 play distinct roles in regulating synaptic and cognitive flexibility that involves bidirectional modification of synaptic function.
Neural circuit and synaptic dysfunctions in ALS-FTD pathology
Authors: Mora Santiago , Allodi Ilary
Published: July 2023

Action selection is a capital feature of cognition that guides behavior in processes that range from motor patterns to executive functions. Here, the ongoing actions need to be monitored and adjusted in response to sensory stimuli to increase the chances of reaching the goal. As higher hierarchical processes, these functions rely on complex neural circuits, and connective loops found within the brain and the spinal cord. Successful execution of motor behaviors depends, first, on proper selection of actions, and second, on implementation of motor commands. Thus, pathological conditions crucially affecting the integrity and preservation of these circuits and their connectivity will heavily impact goal-oriented motor behaviors. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) are two neurodegenerative disorders known to share disease etiology and pathophysiology. New evidence in the field of ALS-FTD has shown degeneration of specific neural circuits and alterations in synaptic connectivity, contributing to neuronal degeneration, which leads to the impairment of motor commands and executive functions. This evidence is based on studies performed on animal models of disease, post-mortem tissue, and patient derived stem cells. In the present work, we review the existing evidence supporting pathological loss of connectivity and selective impairment of neural circuits in ALS and FTD, two diseases which share strong genetic causes and impairment in motor and executive functions.
Predictive factors for persistent postoperative hydrocephalus in children undergoing surgical resection of periventricular tumors
Authors: Chen Zitao , Zhou Ming , Wen Huantao , Wang Qiang , Guan Jianwei , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Wangming
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of this study is to identify the factors predicting persistent hydrocephalus after periventricular tumor resection in children and assess the need and efficacy of perioperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) intervention.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of pediatric patients who underwent resection surgery of a periventricular tumor between March 2012 and July 2021 at the Department of Neurosurgery in Zhujiang Hospital of South Medical University. Demographic, radiographic, perioperative, and dispositional data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate models.

Results

A total of 117 patients were enrolled in our study. Incidence of postoperative persistent hydrocephalus varied with tumor pathology (p = 0.041), tumor location (p = 0.046), surgical approach (p = 0.013), extension of resection (p = 0.043), tumor volume (p = 0.041), preoperative Evan's index (p = 0.002), and preoperative CSF diversion (p = 0.024). On logistic regression, posterior median approach (OR = 5.315), partial resection (OR = 20.984), volume > 90cm3 (OR = 5.768), and no preoperative CSF diversion (OR = 3.661) were independent predictors of postoperative persistent hydrocephalus. Preoperative Evan's index is significantly correlated with tumor volume (p = 0.019). Meanwhile, the need for preoperative CSF drainage in patients in this cohort was significantly correlated with tumor location (p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Tumor pathology, location, surgical approach, the extension of resection, tumor volume, preoperative Evan's index, and preoperative CSF diversion were considered to be predictive factors for postoperative persistent hydrocephalus. Notably, posterior median approach, partial resection, and tumor volume > 90cm3, without preoperative CSF diversion, were identified as independent risk factors for persistent postoperative hydrocephalus. Preoperative identification of children at risk of developing persistent postoperative hydrocephalus would avoid delays in planning the cerebrospinal fluid diversion. Active and effective preoperative hydrocephalus intervention in children with periventricular tumors is beneficial to reduce the incidence of persistent hydrocephalus and ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery after resection.
Neuropsychiatric outcomes following strokes involving the cerebellum: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Muller Ewald Victoria A. , Deifelt Streese Carolina , Bruss Joel E. , Manzel Kenneth , Montilla Lilian M. , Gala Ilisa K. , Tranel Daniel T. , Parker Krystal L.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Given the wide-ranging involvement of cerebellar activity in motor, cognitive, and affective functions, clinical outcomes resulting from cerebellar damage can be hard to predict. Cerebellar vascular accidents are rare, comprising less than 5% of strokes, yet this rare patient population could provide essential information to guide our understanding of cerebellar function.

Methods

To gain insight into which domains are affected following cerebellar damage, we retrospectively examined neuropsychiatric performance following cerebellar vascular accidents in cases registered on a database of patients with focal brain injuries. Neuropsychiatric testing included assessment of cognitive (working memory, language processing, and perceptual reasoning), motor (eye movements and fine motor control), and affective (depression and anxiety) domains.

Results

Results indicate that cerebellar vascular accidents are more common in men and starting in the 5th decade of life, in agreement with previous reports. Additionally, in our group of twenty-six patients, statistically significant performance alterations were not detected at the group level an average of 1.3 years following the vascular accident. Marginal decreases in performance were detected in the word and color sub-scales of the Stroop task, the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, and the Lafayette Grooved Pegboard Test.

Discussion

It is well established that the acute phase of cerebellar vascular accidents can be life-threatening, largely due to brainstem compression. In the chronic phase, our findings indicate that recovery of cognitive, emotional, and affective function is likely. However, a minority of individuals may suffer significant long-term performance impairments in motor coordination, verbal working memory, and/or linguistic processing.
Minimal influence of estrous cycle on studies of female mouse behaviors
Authors: Zeng Pei-Yun , Tsai Ya-Hsuan , Lee Chih-Lin , Ma Yu-Kai , Kuo Tsung-Han
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Sex bias has been an issue in many biomedical fields, especially in neuroscience. In rodent research, many scientists only focused on male animals due to the belief that female estrous cycle gives rise to unacceptable, high levels of variance in the experiments. However, even though female sexual behaviors are well known to be regulated by estrous cycle, which effects on other non-sexual behaviors were not always consistent in previous reports. Recent reviews analyzing published literature even suggested that there is no evidence for larger variation in female than male in several phenotypes.

Methods

To further investigate the impact of estrous cycle on the variability of female behaviors, we conducted multiple behavioral assays, including the open field test, forced swimming test, and resident-intruder assay to assess anxiety-, depression-like behaviors, as well as social interaction respectively. We compared females in the estrus and diestrus stages across four different mouse strains: C57BL/6, BALB/c, C3H, and DBA/2.

Results

Our results found no significant difference in most behavioral parameters between females in these two stages. On the other hand, the differences in behaviors among certain strains are relatively consistent in both stages, suggesting a very minimal effect of estrous cycle for detecting the behavioral difference. Last, we compared the behavioral variation between male and female and found very similar variations in most behaviors between the two sexes.

Discussion

While our study successfully identified behavioral differences among strains and between the sexes, we did not find solid evidence to support the notion that female behaviors are influenced by the estrous cycle. Additionally, we observed similar levels of behavioral variability between males and females. Female mice, therefore, have no reason to be excluded in future behavioral research.
Neurotrophin signalling in the human nervous system
Authors: Ateaque Sarah , Merkouris Spyros , Barde Yves-Alain
Published: July 2023

This review focuses on neurotrophins and their tyrosine kinase receptors, with an emphasis on their relevance to the function and dysfunction in the human nervous system. It also deals with measurements of BDNF levels and highlights recent findings from our laboratory on TrkB and TrkC signalling in human neurons. These include ligand selectivity and Trk activation by neurotrophins and non-neurotrophin ligands. The ligand-induced down-regulation and re-activation of Trk receptors is also discussed.
Undernutrition and associated factors among adult prisoners in Fiche town, central Ethiopia: a facility-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Wondimu Mengistu , Siyoum Ayichew , Ketema Indeshaw , Goshu Abel Tibebu , Habte Sisay , Mehadi Ame , Ayele Behailu Hawulte
Published: July 2023

Background

Undernutrition is a major public health problem worldwide, particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia. However, nutritional problems are frequently overlooked in low-income countries, especially among vulnerable populations such as imprisoned people. The scientific data on the rate of undernutrition among imprisoned people in Ethiopia is limited. Hence, this study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of undernutrition among adult prisoners in Fiche town, central Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from August 15 to September 15, 2020. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select participants. All prisoners whose age was 18 years and above who have been in prison for at least 6 months were included. Data were collected using interviewer-administered pretested semi-structured questionnaires and standard anthropometric measurements. A cut-off point of body mass index <18.5 kg/m2 was used to measure undernutrition. Data were coded, entered into Epi-data version 3.1, and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.0. A binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with undernutrition. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated to measure the strength of the association and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The overall magnitude of undernutrition among adult prisoners was 20% (95% CI: 16.5–23.6). Duration of imprisonment, incarcerated for 25 to 59 months (AOR = 3.07; 95% CI: 1.33, 7.04) and for greater than 59 months (AOR = 4.56; 95% CI: 2.0, 10.45), mild and moderate depression (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.05, 3.45), and moderately severe and severe depression (AOR = 2.78; 95% CI: 1.17, 6.60) were significantly associated with increased odds of undernutrition. However, being female (AOR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.98), having financial support (AOR = 0.36; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.87), engaging in income-generating work within the prison (AOR = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.47), having medium dietary diversity (AOR = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.80), and having good dietary diversity (AOR = 0.23; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.61) significantly decreased the odds of undernutrition.

Conclusion

The magnitude of undernutrition among adult prisoners was high, with one in five prisoners in Fiche town prison having undernutrition. Sex, financial support, duration of imprisonment, income-generating work in the prison, dietary diversity, and depression were predictors of undernutrition. Hence, access to healthy food and diversified diets should be ensured for prisoners, and implementing early screening and treatment of depression, as well as encouraging prisoners to engage in income-generating work within the prison is recommended to reduce the burden of undernutrition.
Effects of intensive nutrition education and counseling on nutritional status of pregnant women in East Shoa Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Wakwoya Ermias Bekele , Belachew Tefera , Girma Tsinuel
Published: July 2023

Background

Nutritional status is defined as an individual’s health condition as it is influenced by the intake and utilization of nutrients. Maternal malnutrition is widespread throughout the world, with Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia bearing the brunt of the burden. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of intensive nutrition education and counseling on nutritional status during pregnancy.

Methods and materials

The study was a one-year, two-arm parallel design cluster randomized controlled trial conducted in the East Shoa zone, Ethiopia, from January 1, 2021, to February 30, 2022. A total of 374 participants were enrolled in the intervention (n = 185) and control (n = 189) groups. End-line data were collected from 163 women, from each group. The intervention package provided three counseling sessions by trained midwives, three-page take-home brochures prepared in local languages, and the delivery of 18 weekly serial short text messages. The women in the control group received routine nutrition education from the health facilities. After adjusting for potential confounders, a linear mixed-effects model was employed to assess the intervention effect.

Results

After the intervention, the mean mid-upper arm circumference in the intervention group increased by 1.8% (23.08 vs. 23.44, p < 0.01). Similarly, the proportion of undernutrition in the intervention group was 11% (25 vs. 36%, p = 0.02) lower compared to the control arm. At the end of the trial, women in the intervention arm had significantly better nutritional status than women in the control group (β = 0.47, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The findings showed that intensive nutrition education and counseling using the health belief model was effective in improving nutritional status and reducing undernutrition among pregnant women. As a result, nutrition education and counseling using HBM constructs, as well as regular reminder messages, should be provided to pregnant women as part of the routine antenatal care service.
Evaluation of millets for physio-chemical and root morphological traits suitable for resilient farming and nutritional security in Eastern Himalayas
Authors: Layek Jayanta , Rangappa Krishnappa , Das Anup , Ansari Meraj A. , Choudhary Sunita , Rajbonshi Namrata , Patra Sandip , Kumar Amit , Mishra Vinay K. , Ravisankar Natesan , Kumar Sunil , Hazarika Samarendra , Dutta Sudip K. , Babu Subhash , Tahasildar M. , Shettigar Nivedita
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Millets are nutritionally superior and climate-resilient short-duration crops and hold a prominent place in cropping sequences around the world. They have immense potential to grow in a marginal environment due to diverse adaptive mechanisms.

Methods

An experiment was conducted in an organic production system in the North Eastern Himalayan foothills of India for 3 consecutive years by evaluating high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of different millets, viz., finger millet, foxtail millet, little millet, barnyard millet, proso millet, and browntop millet, along with local landraces of finger millets (Sikkim-1 and Sikkim-2; Nagaland-1 and Nagaland-2) to identify stable, high-yielding, and nutritionally superior genotypes suited for the region.

Results

Among the various millets, finger millet, followed by little millet and foxtail millet, proved their superiority in terms of productivity (ranging between 1.16 and 1.43 Mg ha−1) compared to other millets. Among different varieties of finger millets, cv. VL Mandua 352 recorded the highest average grain yield (1.43 Mg ha−1) followed by local landraces, Nagaland-2 (1.31 Mg ha−1) and Sikkim-1 (1.25 Mg ha−1). Root traits such as total root length, root volume, average diameter of roots, and root surface area were significantly higher in finger millet landraces Nagaland-1, Nagaland-2, and Sikkim-1 compared to the rest of the millet genotypes. The different millets were found to be rich sources of protein as recorded in foxtail millet cv. SiA 3088 (12.3%), proso millet cv. TNAU 145 (11.5%), and finger millet landraces, Sikkim-1 and Nagaland-2 (8.7% each). Finger millet landrace Sikkim-2 recorded the highest omega-6 content (1.16%), followed by barnyard millet cv. VL 207 (1.09%). Barnyard millet cv. VL 207 recorded the highest polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content (1.23%), followed by foxtail millet cv. SiA 3088 (1.09%). The local finger millet landraces Sikkim-1 and Sikkim-2 recorded the highest levels of histidine (0.41%) and tryptophan (0.12%), respectively. Sikkim-1 and Nagaland-2 recorded the highest level of thiamine (0.32%) compared to the HYVs.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that finger millet has great potential in the organic production system of the North Eastern Himalayan Region (NEHR) of India, and apart from HYVs like VL Mandua 352, local landraces, viz., Nagaland-2 and Sikkim-1, should also be promoted for ensuring food and nutritional security in this fragile ecosystem.
Three-dimensional heterotypic colorectal cancer spheroid models for evaluation of drug response
Authors: Yau Jia Ning Nicolette , Adriani Giulia
Published: July 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Improved preclinical tumor models are needed to make treatment screening clinically relevant and address disease mortality. Advancements in 3D cell culture have enabled a greater recapitulation of the architecture and heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). This has enhanced their pathophysiological relevance and enabled more accurate predictions of tumor progression and drug response in patients. An increasing number of 3D CRC spheroid models include cell populations such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), endothelial cells (ECs), immune cells, and gut bacteria to better mimic the in vivo regulation of signaling pathways. Furthermore, cell heterogeneity within the 3D spheroid models enables the identification of new therapeutic targets to develop alternative treatments and test TME-target therapies. In this mini review, we present the advances in mimicking tumor heterogeneity in 3D CRC spheroid models by incorporating CAFs, ECs, immune cells, and gut bacteria. We introduce how, in these models, the diverse cells influence chemoresistance and tumor progression of the CRC spheroids. We also highlight important parameters evaluated during drug screening in the CRC heterocellular spheroids.
A real-word study: is normothermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy impactful as we expect?
Authors: Jin Mengyao , Cao Wei , Chen Junjie , Xiong Maoming , Cao Guodong , Chen Bo
Published: July 2023

Background

Patients with gastric cancer have a poor prognosis. Currently, intraperitoneal chemotherapy has been considered a therapeutic option to improve prognosis due to its appealing theoretical rationales. But there is no consensus on the choice of chemotherapeutic agents used in intraperitoneal chemotherapy for gastric cancer. The real-world efficacy of applying intraoperative chemotherapy in gastric cancer still remains undefined.

Methods

Patients with gastric cancer who underwent radical gastrectomy at the Gastrointestinal Department of The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University between 2012 and 2019 were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether they received intraperitoneal chemotherapy. The t-test (mean of two samples) was conducted to compare the difference in measurement data between the two groups, and the chi-square test was used to compare the difference in count data. Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank test was performed to analyze the overall survival of patients. Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank test was also performed in various subgroups to respectively compare the survival of patients. Multivariate Cox analysis was performed to analyze the prognosis factors of these patients.

Results

A total of 1253 patients were included in the final analysis, in which 861 patients received intraperitoneal chemotherapy and 352 not received intraperitoneal chemotherapy. The clinicopathological features of the participants in the two groups were comparable. There was no significant difference between the two groups in overall survival (P > 0.05). Consistently, no significant difference was found between the two groups in each subgroup (P > 0.05). The multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that only age, BMI, pathological type, TNM stage, and differentiation grade were independent risk factors of survival.

Conclusion

Intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy usage did not improve survival in patients with gastric cancer undergoing radical gastrectomy.
Wedge resection versus segment IVb and V resection of the liver for T2 gallbladder cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Zhehan , Yu Jiayu , Cao Jiasheng , Lin Chenping , Hu Jiahao , Zhang Bin , Shen Jiliang , Feng Xu , Topatana Win , Chen Mingyu , Fang Haixing
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Although guidelines recommend extended cholecystectomy for T2 gallbladder cancer (GBC), the optimal hepatectomy strategy remains controversial. The study aims to compare the prognosis of T2 GBC patients who underwent wedge resection (WR) versus segment IVb and V resection (SR) of the liver.

Methods

A specific search of online databases was performed from May 2001 to February 2023. The postoperative efficacy outcomes were synthesized and meta-analyses were conducted.

Results

A total of 9 studies involving 2,086 (SR = 627, WR = 1,459) patients were included in the study. The primary outcomes included disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). For DFS, the 1-year DFS was statistically higher in patients undergoing SR than WR [risk ratio (RR) = 1.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02-1.13, P = 0.007]. The 3-year DFS (P = 0.95), 5-year DFS (P = 0.77), and hazard ratio (HR) of DFS (P = 0.72) were similar between the two groups. However, the 3-year OS was significantly lower in patients who underwent SR than WR [RR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.82-0.99, P = 0.03]. Moreover, SR had a higher hazard HR of OS [HR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.01-1.75, P = 0.04]. No significant difference was found in 1-year (P = 0.32) and 5-year (P = 0.9) OS. For secondary outcomes, patients who received SR tended to develop postoperative complications (POC) [RR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.00-3.60, P = 0.05]. In addition, no significant differences in intrahepatic recurrence (P = 0.12) were observed.

Conclusions

In conclusion, SR can improve the prognosis of T2 GBC patients in DFS. In contrast to WR, the high HR and complications associated with SR cannot be neglected. Therefore, surgeons should evaluate the condition of the patients and take their surgical skills into account when selecting SR.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier, CRD42022362974.
Case Report: Clinical application of immunotherapy-based combination regimen in primary osteosarcoma of the uterus
Authors: Yang Jing , Chen Xiaowen , Li Xiaofang , Liu Wenci , Liao Sihai , Wang Yuzhou , Zuo Yufang
Published: July 2023

Primary osteosarcoma of the uterus is an extremely rare pure heterologous sarcoma of the uterus. The relevant available information is limited to case reports. To date, only 31 cases of this type of cancer have been reported. Here, we report the first clinical experience with the administration of an immunotherapy-based combination regimen for multiple metastatic primary osteosarcomas of the uterus. The patient had undergone multiple treatments prior to this regimen, but her condition continued to progress. However, after 3 cycles of immunotherapy combined with targeted therapy and chemotherapy, a review showed that the disease was stable and even in partial remission. The patient has a good quality of life, and long-term survival is expected.