bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationship between liver and cardiometabolic health in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Tas Emir , Vu Bach-Mai Katherine , Mendizabal Brenda , Libman Ingrid , Muzumdar Radhika 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionType 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic condition marked by insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia, with an increasing global incidence, particularly among children. Despite improvements in diabetes management, individuals with T1D continue to experience higher rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of mortality in this population. Traditional CVD risk factors such as dyslipidemia and poor glycemic control are insufficient to fully explain the elevated risk in T1D, prompting further investigation into additional factors. Emerging evidence suggests that metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) plays a critical role in this heightened CVD risk.ObjectiveThis narrative review aims to explore the relationship between MASLD and CVD in individuals with T1D. The review focuses on the prevalence of MASLD, its contributing risk factors, and the potential impact of liver dysfunction on cardiovascular outcomes in this population.MethodsA review of existing literature was conducted, focusing on observational studies, cohort studies, and meta-analyses that investigate the prevalence of MASLD in T1D populations and its association with CVD. The review also examines the physiological mechanisms linking MASLD and CVD, including insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and hepatic dyslipidemia. Key studies were evaluated to identify patterns in MASLD prevalence based on diagnostic modalities and to assess the independent contribution of MASLD to cardiovascular risk in T1D patients.ConclusionMASLD is increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to CVD in individuals with T1D, particularly in those with shared risk factors like obesity and insulin resistance. Evidence suggests that MASLD exacerbates hepatic and systemic metabolic dysfunction, increasing CVD risk through mechanisms such as chronic inflammation and atherogenic lipid profiles. Routine liver health assessments and tailored management strategies targeting MASLD should be incorporated into clinical care for individuals with T1D to mitigate long-term cardiovascular complications.
Autoantibodies targeting interferons and GM-CSF are associated with adverse outcome risk, comorbidities, and pathogen in community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Von Stemann Jakob Hjorth , Dungu Arnold Matovu , Laguarda Maria Vispe , Ryrsø Camilla Koch , Hegelund Maria Hein , Faurholt-Jepsen Daniel , Krogh-Madsen Rikke , Hansen Morten Bagge , Lindegaard Birgitte , Ostrowski Sisse Rye 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionCytokine autoantibodies (c-aAb) have been associated with pulmonary diseases, including severe novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. This study aimed to determine c-aAb association with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) etiology (SARS-CoV-2, influenza, or bacteria) and c-aAb associations with CAP-related clinical outcomes and pulmonary comorbidities.MethodsIn a cohort of 665 patients hospitalized with CAP, c-aAb targeting interferon α (IFNα), IFNβ, IFNγ, interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-6, IL-10, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) were measured in plasma samples. Associations between c-aAb and baseline characteristics, pulmonary comorbidities, pathogen, intensive care unit (ICU) transferal, time to clinical stability, and mortality were estimated, with results stratified by sex.ResultsMore men infected with SARS-CoV-2 were had high-titer type 1 IFN c-aAb compared to other pathogens. Among patients with CAP, asthma and bronchiectasis comorbidities were associated with high-titer GM-CSF c-aAb in men, and men with high-titer IFNβ c-aAb had increased odds for ICU transferal. High-titer IL-10 c-aAb were associated with faster clinical stability in womenConclusionIn men with CAP, various c-aAb—including type 1 IFN and GM-CSF c-aAb—were associated with adverse clinical events and comorbidities, whereas c-aAb targeting an autoinflammatory cytokine were associated with a positive outcome in women. This suggests that the potentially immunomodulatory effects of c-aAb depend on pathogen, autoantibody specificity, comorbidity, and sex.
Genome-wide characterization and comparative expression profiling of dual-specificity phosphatase genes in yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) after infection with exogenous Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Guo Shengtao , Zeng Mengsha , Zhang Chenhao , Fan Yuxin , Ran Miling , Song Zhaobin 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionDual-specificity phosphatases (DUSPs) are crucial regulators in many mammals, managing dephosphorylation and inactivation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and playing essential roles in immune responses. However, their presence and functions in teleosts, like the yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco), remain unexplored.MethodsIn this study, eight pfDusp genes (pfDusp1-7 and pfDusp10) were identified in yellow catfish. We characterized their molecular features, conserved protein sequences, and chromosomal localization through genome-wide analyses, and we examined their expression patterns in immune responses.ResultsOur findings reveal two conserved motifs, Leu-Phe-Leu-Gly and Ala-Tyr-Leu-Met, within the DSPc domain of DUSP proteins. The genes were mapped across seven chromosomes without evidence of duplication. Comparative analysis showed high conservation of Dusp genes across vertebrates, with evolutionary analysis suggesting Dusp3 as a potential intermediate form. Dusp transcripts were significantly upregulated in the kidney post-A. hydrophila infection.DiscussionThese results suggest the involvement of Dusp genes in the immune response of yellow catfish to bacterial pathogens, providing insights into their evolutionary significance and potential applications in aquaculture and molecular breeding.
Prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among children aged 1–9 years in previous leprosarium and non-leprosarium areas in eastern Ethiopia: a community-based comparative study
Authors: Weldegebreal Fitsum , Getachew Mitiku , Mekonnen Getachew Kabew , Desalew Assefa , Mekonnen Shambel , Raru Temam Beshir , Umer Ukash , Urgesa Kedir 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundTrachoma is a neglected tropical disease that mainly affects impoverished and marginalized communities with inadequate shelter and sanitation. Nevertheless, the prevalence of active trachoma and the specific factors contributing to it among communities residing in former leprosy settlements in eastern Ethiopia are not well explored. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among children aged 1-9 years in the previous leprosarium and non-leprosarium areas, as well as urban and rural areas in eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 580 systematically selected households from January 1 to 30, 2024. Data were collected by interviewing the children’s caregivers, observing the child and environment, and conducting a clinical examination of their eyes. Data were entered in EpiData version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) version 26 software for analysis. A chi-square test was also done. The association was presented as an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval, and variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were regarded as statistically significant.ResultsThe overall prevalence of active trachoma was 12.9% (95% CI: 10.5%-15.3%). The prevalence of active trachoma was 15.6%, 9.8%, 18.3%, and 7.5% among children in previous leprosy and non-leprosy settlements and rural and urban areas, respectively (x²=5.65, p-value = 0.017). Having eye discharge (AOR = 10.7’; 95% CI: 4.32, 26.51), latrine distance from home of less than 10 m(AOR=3.12; 95% CI: 1.16–8.34), being a rural resident (AOR=4.1; 95% CI: 1.69-10.18), presence of solid waste around their home (AOR=6.5; 95% CI: 2.14-19.72), and household monthly income less than 5000 Ethiopian birrs (AOR=2.9; 95%CI: 1.04-8.30) were statistically associated with active trachoma in the previous leprosy settlements. In the non-leprosy settlements, children who had eye discharge (AOR = 7.6; 95% CI: 5.37, 58.05), latrine distance from home of less than 10 m (AOR=3.12; 95%CI: 1.11, 8.77), habit of playing with soil (AOR=9.0; 95% CI: 2.92, 28.24), and presence of animal dung (AOR=6.98; 95% CI: 3.44, 48.47) were statistically associated with active trachoma.ConclusionIn this study, the prevalence of active trachoma among children aged from 1-9 years old was higher than the WHO target for the elimination of active trachoma (&lt;5%) in every district. Therefore, targeted treatments and raising awareness on proper hygiene and sanitation are required to alleviate the problem.
Distribution and behaviour of reduced sulfur substances in the oligotrophic and hydrothermal waters of the Western Tropical South Pacific
Authors: Portlock Gemma , Whitby Hannah , Salaün Pascal 
Published: November 2024

Reduced sulfur species (RSS) are involved in essential biological and chemical processes, including metal complexation, yet little is known about their occurrence and behaviour in marine systems. Here, we present a quantitative and qualitative data set of species-specific RSS in open ocean samples collected during the GEOTRACES Tonga GPpr14 cruise. The cruise traversed differing biogeochemical provinces, from the mesotrophic Melanesian waters and the North Fiji Basin, through the hydrothermally active Lau Basin, eastward to the oligotrophic South Pacific Gyre. Using cathodic stripping voltammetry in acidified samples (pH 2), we measured the concentration of two RSS, with peak potentials of -0.18 and -0.09 V in equivalents of thioacetamide (TA) and glutathione (GSH) respectively. GSH-like compounds were only present in the upper 200 m at concentrations up to 6.2 nM eq. GSH, consistent with other cathodic stripping voltammetry as well as chromatography-based studies. In contrast, RSS−0.18 V2 compounds were detected at all depths at concentrations ranging from 48 nM to 980 nM eq. TA. Both RSS−0.18 V2 and GSH-like compounds were present at higher levels in the hydrothermally-impacted region of the Lau Basin relative to other stations. The highest levels, along with high sulfide concentrations, were detected in a hydrothermal plume sample, indicating that hydrothermal vents are a direct or indirect source of these compounds. Elevated levels of RSS−0.18 V2 compounds were detected throughout almost the entire water column at a station located in the North Fiji Basin. We also employed the qualitative technique of cathodic pseudopolarography on unbuffered samples (pH ~ 8.5). Pseudopolarograms of marine RSS were compared to sulfide, GSH and TA standards. Pseudopolarography supports the presence of GSH in marine samples. However, while a compound that is electrochemically similar to TA is often detected in marine samples, TA itself is not thought to be naturally present. This is supported by our pseudopolarograms of RSS−0.52 V8.5 which often lacked the characteristic TA reduction wave but suggested the presence of other unidentified RSS compounds.
The co-expression of the depolarizing and hyperpolarizing mechanosensitive ion channels in mammalian retinal neurons
Authors: Pang Vivian Y. , Yang Zhuo , Wu Samuel M. , Pang Ji-Jie 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe elevation of the intraocular and extraocular pressures is associated with various visual conditions, including glaucoma and traumatic retinal injury. The retina expresses mechanosensitive channels (MSCs), but the role of MSCs in retinal physiology and pathologies has been unclear.MethodsUsing immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy, and patch-clamp recording techniques, we studied the co-expression of K+-permeable (K-MSCs) TRAAK and big potassium channel BK with the epithelial sodium channel ENaC and transient receptor potential channel vanilloid TPRV4 and TRPV2 favorably permeable to Ca2+ than Na+ (together named N-MSCs), and TRPV4 activity in the mouse retina.ResultsTRAAK immunoreactivity (IR) was mainly located in Müller cells. Photoreceptor outer segments (OSs) expressed BK and ENaCα intensively and TRAAK, TRPV2, and TRPV4 weakly. Somas and axons of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) retrograde-identified clearly expressed ENaCα, TRPV4, and TRPV2 but lacked TRAAK and BK. Rod bipolar cells (RBCs) showed TRPV4-IR in somas and BK-IR in axonal globules. Horizontal cells were BK-negative, and some cone BCs lacked TRPV4-IR. TRPV4 agonist depolarized RGCs, enhanced spontaneous spikes and excitatory postsynaptic currents, reduced the visual signal reliability (VSR = 1-noise/signal) by ~50%, and resulted in ATP crisis, which could inactivate voltage-gated sodium channels in RGCs.ConclusionIndividual neurons co-express hyperpolarizing K-MSCs with depolarizing N-MSCs to counterbalance the pressure-induced excitation, and the level of K-MSCs relative to N-MSCs (RK/N ratio) is balanced in the outer retina but low in RGCs, bringing out novel determinants for the pressure vulnerability of retinal neurons and new targets for clinical interventions.
Revealing the potential therapeutic mechanism of Lonicerae Japonicae Flos in Alzheimer’s disease: a computational biology approach
Authors: Xiang Qin , Xiang Yu , Liu Yao , Chen Yongjun , He Qi , Chen Taolin , Tang Liang , He Binsheng , Li Jianming 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a degenerative brain disease without a cure. Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (LJF), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, possesses a neuroprotective effect, but its mechanisms for AD are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate potential targets and constituents of LJF against AD.MethodsNetwork pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses were performed to screen potential compounds and targets. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets related to AD patients were used to screen core targets of differential expression. Gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA) was used to validate the correlation between core target genes and major causative genes of AD. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the predictive efficacy of core targets based on GEO datasets. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation were conducted to analyze the binding affinities of effective compounds with core targets.ResultsNetwork pharmacology analysis showed that 112 intersection targets were identified. Bioinformatics analysis displayed that 32 putative core targets were identified from 112 intersection targets. Only eight core targets were differentially expressed based on GEO datasets. Finally, six core targets of MAPK8, CTNNB1, NFKB1, EGFR, BCL2, and NFE2L2 were related to AD progression and had good predictive ability based on correlation and ROC analyses. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation analyses elucidated that the component of lignan interacted with EGFR, the component of β-carotene interacted with CTNNB1 and BCL2, the component of β-sitosterol interacted with BCL2, the component of hederagenin interacted with NFKB1, the component of berberine interacted with EGFR and BCL2, and the component of baicalein interacted with NFKB1, EGFR and BCL2.ConclusionThrough a comprehensive analysis, this study revealed that six core targets (MAPK8, CTNNB1, NFKB1, EGFR, BCL2, and NFE2L2) and six practical components (lignan, β-carotene, β-sitosterol, hederagenin, berberine, and baicalein) were involved in the mechanism of action of LJF against AD. Our work demonstrated that LJF effectively treats AD through its multi-component and multi-target properties. The findings of this study will establish a theoretical basis for the expanded application of LJF in AD treatment and, hopefully, can guide more advanced experimental research in the future.
Utilizing metagenomic next-generation sequencing and phylogenetic analysis to identify a rare pediatric case of Naegleria fowleri infection presenting with fulminant myocarditis
Authors: Lin Liangkang , Luo Lili , Wu Mei , Chen Jun , Liao Yi , Zhang Haiyang 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundNaegleria fowleri (N. fowleri), a rare and typically lethal amoeba, most commonly causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). This case report describes an exceptionally rare presentation of fulminant myocarditis as the primary manifestation in a 6-year-old child, diverging from the typical neurological pathogenesis associated with N. fowleri infection. Beyond neurological afflictions, the child developed arrhythmias and cardiac failure, necessitating treatment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).MethodsDiagnosis was confirmed via metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of both blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This analysis not only substantiated the infection but also revealed a potential new genotype of N. fowleri, designated k39_3, suggesting broader genetic diversity than previously recognized.ResultsImmediate treatment with Amphotericin B (Am B) and rifampin was initiated upon diagnosis. Despite aggressive management and supportive care, the patient failed to maintain hemodynamic stability, continued to show a decrease in cardiac output, and exhibited relentless progression of central nervous system failure, culminating in death within 72 h.ConclusionOur report documents a rare pediatric case of N. fowleri infection presenting with fulminant myocarditis, revealing an unexpected clinical manifestation and broadening the known spectrum of its effects. This emphasizes the need for enhanced surveillance and targeted research to understand the pathogenic mechanisms and improve treatment strategies.
Comparative analysis of oral saliva microbiomes and metabolites in Han population at different altitudes
Authors: Li Junping , Suonan Lamu , Lin Jiangsong , Zhaxi Jiangcuo , Gong Ming , Li Jian , Langjie Dawa , Zhu Lulu , Shique Qiangjiu , Chen Cheng 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThis study investigated the differences in oral saliva microbiota composition and metabolic products among Han Chinese populations living at different altitudes, as well as their correlations.MethodThe analysis was conducted using the 16S rRNA gene sequencing method and untargeted metabolomics.Results16S gene sequencing results showed significant differences in bacterial diversity and composition between HH (High altitude Han) group and LH (Low altitude Han) group. LEfSe analysis showed that Selenomonas, Leptotrichia, Veillonella, Prevotella relatively abundant are higher in HH group, Haemophilus, Neisseria, Actinobacillus, Aggregatibacter are higher in LH group (p&lt;0.05). Furthermore, as depicted in the phylogenetic tree, there are differences observed between the two groups at all taxonomic levels: 4 phyla, 6 classes, 6 orders, 9 families, 9 genera and 8 species (p&lt;0.05). After conducting PICRUSt functional prediction analysis, we identified 11 significantly different KEGG categories (level 2) between the two groups. These categories primarily encompass energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism. Furthermore, non-targeted metabolomics analysis revealed a total of 997 distinct metabolites in the two groups. These differentiated metabolites can be classified into 13 Class I categories including amino acids and their metabolites, benzene and its derivatives, organic acids and their derivatives, heterocyclic compounds, aldehydes, ketones and esters, nucleotides and their metabolites among others. Additionally, fatty acyl compounds, alcohols and amines as well as glycerophospholipids are present along with carbohydrates and other physiologically active components such as hormones. Finally, Pearson correlation analysis of the top 20 differential metabolites with microorganisms demonstrated an interaction between them; however further experimental verification is required to elucidate the specific mechanism of action.ConclusionTherefore, this study revealed the effect of altitude on oral saliva microbes and metabolites, as well as their correlations.
Characteristics of soil microbial community assembly patterns in fields with serious occurrence of tobacco Fusarium wilt disease
Authors: Liu Huidi , Zhang Yongfeng , Li Hongchen , Chen Shilu , Zhang Jingze , Ding Wei 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionFusarium wilt disease (FWD) of tobacco is a destructive disease caused by Fusarium spp. in tobacco-growing regions worldwide. The Fusarium spp. infection may alter the composition and structure of the tobacco root microbial community; however, the relationship between these factors under large-scale geographical conditions in China remains underexplored.MethodsIn the context of this investigation, soil samples from the rhizosphere of tobacco plants were procured from fields afflicted with FWD and those devoid of the disease in the Hanzhong region of Shaanxi province, as well as in the Sanmenxia and Nanyang regions of Henan province. These regions are recognized for the commercial cultivation of tobacco. The examination focused on discerning the influence of tobacco FWD on the composition and configuration of the rhizosphere microbial community, along with their co-occurrence patterns. This scrutiny was underpinned by targeted PCR amplification and high-throughput sequencing (amplicon sequencing) of the 16S rRNA gene and the ITS1 region.ResultsThe amplicon data analyses showed that FWD influenced the microbial structure and composition of the tobacco rhizosphere soil. FWD had a greater impact on the microbiome of the tobacco fungal community than on the microbiome of the bacterial community. Healthy plants had the ability to recruit potential beneficial bacteria. Diseased plants were more susceptible to colonization by other pathogenic fungi, but they still had the capacity to recruit potential beneficial bacteria. The analysis of microbial intra- and inter-kingdom networks further indicated that FWD destabilized microbial networks. In the overall microbial interaction, microorganisms primarily interacted within their boundaries, but FWD increased the proportion of interactions occurring across boundaries. In addition, FWD could disrupt the interactions within microbial network modules.DiscussionThis study provides evidence that FWD can cause changes in the composition and network of microbial communities, affecting the interactions among various microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. These findings contribute to our understanding of how plant microbiomes change due to disease. Furthermore, they add to our knowledge of the mechanisms that govern the assembly and interactions of microbial communities under the influence of FWD.