bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Structurally targeted mutagenesis identifies key residues supporting α-synuclein misfolding in multiple system atrophy
Authors: Reis Patricia M , Holec Sara AM , Ezeiruaku Chimere , Frost Matthew P , Brown Christine K , Liu Samantha L , Olson Steven H , Woerman Amanda L. 
Published: November 2024

Background Multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are caused by misfolded α-synuclein spreading throughout the central nervous system. While familial PD is linked to several α-synuclein mutations, no mutations are associated with MSA. We previously showed that the familial PD mutation E46K inhibits replication of MSA prions both in vitro and in vivo, providing key evidence to support the hypothesis that α-synuclein adopts unique strains in patients. Objective Here we sought to further interrogate α-synuclein misfolding to identify the structural determinants that contribute to MSA strain biology. Methods We engineered a panel of cell lines harbouring both PD-linked and novel mutations designed to identify key residues that facilitate α-synuclein misfolding in MSA. We also used Maestro in silico analyses to predict the effect of each mutation on α-synuclein misfolding into one of the reported MSA cryo-electron microscopy conformations. Results In many cases, our modelling accurately identified mutations that facilitated or inhibited MSA replication. However, Maestro was occasionally unable to predict the effect of a mutation, demonstrating the challenge of using computational tools to investigate intrinsically disordered proteins. Finally, we used our cellular models to determine the mechanism underlying the E46K-driven inhibition of MSA replication, finding that the E46/K80 salt bridge is necessary to support α-synuclein misfolding. Conclusions Our studies used a structure-based approach to investigate α-synuclein misfolding, resulting in the creation of a powerful panel of cell lines that can be used to interrogate MSA strain biology.
Viability and functional impact of probiotic and starter cultures in salami-type fermented meat products
Authors: Mani-López Emma , Hernández-Figueroa Ricardo H. , López-Malo Aurelio , Morales-Camacho Jocksan I. 
Published: November 2024

Salami, a well-known fermented meat product, is made from selected ground meat mixed with curing agents and spices. This work aimed to determine the viability of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (as a starter), Lactobacillus acidophilus (probiotic microorganism), and their mixture during the fermentation and ripening of a salami-type product, evaluate the microbiological and physicochemical changes and assess the sensory acceptability of the final product. L. acidophilus has not been sufficiently explored as a probiotic in fermented meats, especially in terms of its effects on fermentation and sensory qualities. Salami-type products were formulated and fermented for 48 h at 32°C, and then ripening took place at 8°C for 13 days. pH, titratable acidity, Lactobacillus counts, and contaminating microbiota were analyzed during the process. Sensory evaluation was analyzed in the final products. The salami-type formulation served as an effective medium for growing microorganisms, with the populations of starter and probiotic cultures exceeding 108 CFU/g after fermentation and ripening for 15 days. The pH of the end products was ∼5.1, titratable acidity ∼2.5%, and aw ∼0.83. During fermentation and ripening, a significant reduction in total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (&gt;7 logs), coliforms, and Staphylococcus aureus (&gt;8-fold reductions) were observed. The sensory evaluation results indicate that the product’s attributes are not influenced by the type of bacteria used, as no significant difference was found (p &gt; 0.05). The results show that L. acidophilus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, or their mixture can be used as a starter culture in fermented meat products. Using L. acidophilus, whether alone or in combination, is a viable option that preserves the characteristics of the fermented product and may enhance the benefits of probiotic consumption.
Longitudinal transcriptome analysis reveals distinct gene expression patterns in traditional Chinese medicine syndromes of upper respiratory tract infections
Authors: Zou Hao , Huang Changrui , Feng Qinqi , Yu Bang , Liu Jian , Shu Xinyang , Nie Xiaolu , Zhang Hongchun , Zou Xiaohui 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundWind-cold (WC) and Wind-heat (WH) are common syndromes of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), presenting different clinical features, but the transcriptomic changes associated with these syndromes remained unclear.Materials and MethodsPatients with WC and WH syndromes were recruited from outpatient unit, pharyngeal swabs were collected for pathogen detection. Peripheral blood samples were obtained on day 1 and day 6, with healthy volunteers as controls. Transcriptome sequencing was performed to identify differentially expressed genes and pathways associated with the two syndromes. Marker genes for each syndrome were identified, and a machine learning classifier was developed.ResultsA total of 124 samples from 34 WC, 30 WH patients, and 16 health controls were included in this study. No significant differences in etiological spectrum were observed between the syndromes. Both syndromes showed distinct gene expression profiles compared to health control. Gene enrichment analysis indicated that TGF-β and Wnt/β -catenin pathways were downregulated in the WH. The oxidative phosphorylation pathways were downregulated in WC cohort compared to the WH cohort. As the URTIs improved from day 1 to day 6, oxidative phosphorylation pathway activity returned to normal levels. The marker genes for WC and WH syndromes were identified and a random forest classifier was built, achieving an accuracy of 0.88.ConclusionWC and WH syndromes demonstrated distinct gene expression profiles, supporting more precise TCM diagnosis. WC syndrome is marked by mitochondrial dysfunction, while WH syndrome is characterized by downregulated TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin pathways.
Realizing real-time optical molecular imaging in peripheral nerve tissue via Rhodamine B
Authors: Wei Jinzheng , Guo Xinyu , Wang Yixi , Zhang Yunmeng , Zhao Wei , Han Shufeng , Liu Chao , Yang Xiaofeng , Liang Wenkai 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundIatrogenic nerve injury is a consequential complication during surgery. Thus, real-time imaging of peripheral nerve (PN) possesses significant clinical implications. In recent years, the rapid advancements in optical molecular imaging (OMI) technology have provided essential technical foundations for the implementation of PN fluorescence imaging. This study aimed to realize real-time OMI of PNs via Rhodamine B.MethodsPhosphate buffered saline (PBS), normal saline (NS), 5% glucose solution (GS), and fetal bovine serum (FBS) were selected for measuring the fluorescence spectra of Rhodamine B solutions prepared in each formulation. Rhodamine B solutions, with varying doses dissolved in 100 μL of each formulation, were prepared and applied to the exposed PNs of the mice for incubation later. To ascertain the optimal formulation and dose of Rhodamine B, an analysis was performed on the signal-to-background ratio (SBR) of the nerves. Based on the experimental results, we proceeded to incubate Rhodamine B solution on the PN tissue of mice and human subjects, as well as on neuronal cells, to verify the binding sites of Rhodamine B with nerve. Subsequently, histological studies were conducted to validate the binding site between Rhodamine B and the nerves. Finally, we injected the optimal combination of Rhodamine B solution into mice via the tail vein and collected the SBR of mouse nerve tissues at different time intervals to determine the optimal pre-injection time. Fluorescence images of various tissues were collected, and Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&amp;E) staining results were observed to determine the metabolism of Rhodamine B in mice and its toxicity.ResultsThe excitation peak of Rhodamine B in PBS, NS, 5% GS, and FBS formulations was 554 nm, and the emission peak was 576 nm. In PBS group, the maximum SBR was 15.37 ± 0.68 while the dose of Rhodamine B was 8 nmol. Through ex-vivo validation on fresh human nerve tissue and verification using mouse and human tissue sections, we observed fluorescent signals of Rhodamine Bin the regions of nerve tissue and the fluorescence signals were all concentrated on the neuronal cell membranes. After injection, the fluorescent signal in nerve tissue reached its peak at 24 hours (h), coinciding with the highest SBR (5.93 ± 0.92) in mouse nerve tissues at this time point. Additionally, the fluorescence signal could be maintained for at least 48 h. Within 24 h, lung dilation and fusion of alveoli occurred. Then these pathological manifestations gradually diminished, returning to normal at 2 weeks (w), with no significant acute or chronic adverse reactions observed in other tissues.ConclusionRhodamine B enables fluorescence imaging of PNs and has the potential for clinical translation.
Exploring the multifaceted challenges of gastrointestinal metastases in lung adenocarcinoma: a case report highlighting diagnostic dilemmas and therapeutic innovations
Authors: Xu Xinxin , Zhou Qian , Chen Peng , Du Chengzhou , Huang Yonghua , Gao Xiaoxin , Xu Shumei , Wu Jinling , He Tianxiao , Li Hongtao 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundLung cancer, the primary cause of cancer-related deaths, often metastasizes early, commonly affecting the liver, brain, bones, and adrenal glands. Although gastrointestinal (GI) metastasis is rare, it poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges and is frequently linked to severe complications.Case descriptionWe present a case of a 61-year-old male with a history of lung cancer who presented with intestinal obstruction. The initial diagnosis of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma was confirmed by computed tomography (CT) and bronchoscopic biopsy. The patient underwent chemotherapy, after which he developed intestinal obstruction. Further imaging and histopathological analysis indicated GI metastasis. Despite treatment with both chemotherapy and immunotherapy, the patient experienced recurrent obstruction, necessitating surgical intervention. Postoperatively, he had another episode of perforation, which was addressed with an emergency laparotomy, revealing metastatic adenocarcinoma at the site of perforation.ConclusionsThis case highlights the complexities in diagnosing and treating GI metastases from lung cancer. It underscores the necessity for multimodal treatment strategies and underscores the urgent need for research focused on early detection methods to improve patient outcomes.
Drought induces opposite changes in organ carbon and soil organic carbon to increase resistance on moso bamboo
Authors: Ge Xiaogai , Mao Yilian , Zhou Benzhi , Wang Xiaoming , Li Mai–He 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe variety of organs carbon concentration may be important for tree survival rate, drought resistance and tree subsequent recovery. However, it remains unclear how drought affect structural carbohydrate (SC) and non–structural carbohydrate (NSC) export and transport on clonal plant, which can be correlated with sustain physiological metabolism and group drought resistance by resource sharing. To better understand the adaption ability of clone plants to drought and the linkage of organ carbon with soil organic carbon (SOC) fractions, we assessed how long–term drought affects organ carbon and its impact on SOC fractions among moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) ramets.MethodsThroughfall exclusion included two treatments with simulated drought (TE) and control sample (CK, natural rainfall) by waterproofing panels, which excluded 70–80% of the precipitation. We measured the SC and NSC of leaves, branches and roots as well as soil organic carbon components on three ramets, which emerged in 2017 (grandma, GB), ramets that appeared in 2018 (mother bamboo, MB) and ramets emerging in 2019 (current-year bamboo, CB).ResultsThe results showed that there was significant difference on lignin, cellulose: lignin ratio and soluble sugar in leaves and roots (p&lt;0.05) instead of branches (p&gt;0.05). Effect of drought on SC and NSC varied with different organs and ramet age. Drought significantly increased soluble sugar concentration of leaves and roots by 15.5–31.0% and 10.6–24.8% for current-year bamboo. Compared with CK, drought decreased SOC by 6.7–19.1%, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) by 55.3–68.7%, readily oxidizable carbon (ROC) by 11.2–29.8%, particulate organic carbon (POC) by 25.1–47.4% but no effect on mineral–associated organic carbon (MOC). Drought changed the relationships of carbon components between plant organs and soil. In the control treatments, SC of leaves were significantly positively correlated with ROC, NSC of branches were positively correlated with ROC and MBC, NSC of roots were significantly positively correlated with SOC.DiscussionOverall, our results suggest that drought strengthened the linkage of plant organ carbon and soil carbon cycling among moso bamboo ramets in ecosystem studies, which are critical for predicting tree resistance and management in subtropical forest under drought.
Meat-egg-dairy consumption and depressive symptoms among Chinese older adults: exploring rural/urban and gender disparities
Authors: Si Boyu , Zhang Keqing 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThis study examines the association between Meat, Egg, and Dairy (MED) product consumption and depressive symptoms among older adults in China, focusing on rural/urban and gender differences.MethodsThis study employed data from the latest wave (year 2018) of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) models were applied to examine the association between MED consumption and depression levels.FindingsThe findings revealed a consistent negative relationship between MED consumption and depression, with higher MED intake associated with lower depression levels. Urban residents and males exhibited higher MED consumption, which correlated with less depressive symptoms. However, the impact of MED consumption on depression varied by subgroups; urban older adults benefited more from MED consumption than their rural counterparts, and the relationship between MED intake and depression was more pronounced in males than in females. The study highlighted the influence of socio-demographic factors, such as literacy, income, and self-rated health, on depression levels.DiscussionThe results suggested that MED consumption may offer protective effects on mental health in older adults, although the association may not be causal. The study underscored the need for further research to explore the complex interplay between diet and mental health in older adults, particularly in diverse cultural contexts.
Tinnitus and COVID-19: effect of infection, vaccination, and the pandemic
Authors: Tai Yihsin , Jain Namitha , Kim Gibbeum , Husain Fatima T. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic, which began worldwide around March 2020, has had an impact on hearing health, specifically tinnitus and hearing loss. Physiologically, COVID-19 infection, or medication used to treat the infection, has been reported to be a potential risk factor for tinnitus onset. In addition, tinnitus was reported to be a long COVID symptom or to occur after a COVID-19 vaccination in some cases. With most reports focused on the clinical population, this study aimed to investigate how the onset of tinnitus is associated with COVID-19 infection, long COVID, and COVID-19 vaccination in the general population based on self-report, while accounting for otologic and psychological symptoms.MethodsIn this study, a cross-sectional online survey that included general demographic questions, questions about tinnitus, hearing loss, hyperacusis, emotional status, and the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) was conducted.ResultsCompleted survey data of 1,511 respondents who reported having tinnitus or believed to have COVID-associated tinnitus were included in the analysis. Participants were categorized into four groups based on their judgment regarding the etiology of their tinnitus: (1) COVID infection group, (2) long COVID group, (3) COVID vaccination group, and (4) pre-existing tinnitus group. The results suggest that tinnitus severity (estimated using TFI scores) was significantly lower in the pre-existing tinnitus group than in any of the COVID-associated tinnitus groups. While varying factors were found to contribute to tinnitus severity among the COVID-associated groups, overall, depression and/or anxiety accounted for the most variance in predicting tinnitus severity.DiscussionThe findings highlight the need to evaluate the impact of varying otologic and psychological symptoms in individuals with COVID-associated tinnitus for better patient-centered care.
Evaluation of outcomes of psychological interventions in terminally ill family caregivers: a brief overview
Authors: Rezaei Masoud , Keyvanloo Shahrestanaki Sahar , Sheikh Milani Arezoo , Neishabouri Masoumeh , Khaleghparast Shiva , Rajabi Mohammad Reza 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundFamily caregivers play a crucial role in supporting patients with incurable diseases, but often experience significant stress and anxiety. This study aimed to investigate the impact of psychological interventions on family caregivers, with a focus on reducing the burden of care, improving mental health and quality of life, and promoting family communication.MethodThis study conducted a brief overview of quantitative and qualitative research on assessing the impact of psychological interventions on family caregivers. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PUBMED, SCOPUS, EMBASE, SCIENCE DIRECT and WEB OF SCIENCE to identify relevant papers, resulting in 20 articles being included. The included studies focused on evaluating the outcomes of psychological interventions on family caregivers.ResultUltimately, 20 relevant articles were retrieved from a pool of 500 articles, focusing on the evaluation of the primary outcomes of psychological interventions on family caregivers. The review of 20 articles revealed that interventions such as expressive writing and reminiscence therapy had a positive and significant impact on reducing the burden of care and fostering a positive care environment. Additionally, these interventions were found to be effective in improving self-esteem, family communication, and overall wellbeing.ConclusionThe study emphasizes the need for further research to confirm the benefits of these interventions and their role in promoting family resilience. These findings highlight the potential of psychological interventions in alleviating the challenges faced by family caregivers of patients with incurable diseases.
Studying the Impact of Diffuser Return Guide Vanes on the Energy Performance of a Multistage Centrifugal Pump
Authors: Górecki Jan , Klimentov Kliment , Popov Gencho , Kostov Boris , Ibrahim Salaf 
Published: November 2024

The head, efficiency, and cavitation characteristics of centrifugal pumps are highly dependent on the velocity field in front of the impeller inlet. In multistage pumps, the velocity field in front of the second and each subsequent stage is determined by the shape (design) of the diffuser return guide vanes. This current work presents the results obtained by performing a numerical study using ANSYS CFX 14.0 to determine the impact of the shape (design) of diffuser return guide vanes on the head and coefficient of efficiency of one stage of a multistage centrifugal pump. Three RGVs with different Outlet angles are studied: α6—original RGV with α6=90 deg, RGV1 with α6=110 deg and RGV2 with α6=128 deg. The results obtained after performing CFD modeling indicate that with one of the studied RGVs, the pump stage head increases by nearly 20%, while the hydraulic coefficient of efficiency remains almost constant. Applying entropy production theory is used to determine the impact of the various components of entropy production on the total head loss in the studied pump stage. The impact of the Outlet angle of the RGV on the velocity field of the flow in front of the next impeller (stage) as well as the RGV head is also analyzed. The numerical results of the original RGV are compared with the experimental data obtained from large-scale studies of pumps performed at the Laboratory of Hydraulic Machines of the University “Angel Kanchev” of Ruse, Bulgaria. When using the modified RGVs, the head curve of the original pump can be obtained by operating at a lower speed or with a smaller impeller diameter. This may lead to an overall increase in the energy efficiency of the machine, which could be explored as a future task.
Occurrence and Phenotypic Characteristics of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Emergency Medical Service Ambulances as a Potential Threat to Medical Staff and Patients
Authors: Leszczyński Piotr Konrad , Olędzka Aleksandra , Wierzchowska Kamila , Frankowska-Maciejewska Aneta , Mitura Krzysztof Marek , Celinski Daniel 
Published: November 2024

Introduction: An ambulance used by an emergency medical service team is the workplace of specialised medical personnel, providing daily transportation for patients in life-threatening conditions, from all walks of life, with numerous diseases and injuries. MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) strains are classified as Gram-positive cocci, characterised primarily by their multidrug resistance. Infections caused by S. aureus have a low treatment success rate and are associated with persistent carrier state. This study aimed to isolate MRSA and MSSA (methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus) in the emergency vehicle and determine drug resistance of these isolates. Materials and Methods: This study involved an ambulance vehicle operated in central Poland. A total of 39 swabs were taken and evaluated from inside the ambulance on permanent duty. The isolates were analysed using catalase and coagulase assays, Gram staining, culturing on Chapman medium, growth evaluation on agar with 5% sheep blood, and assessing the strains’ sensitivities to selected antibiotics. Material was collected from 13 designated points located in the medical compartment and driver’s cabin. Results: S. aureus bacteria were detected in 51.28% of the samples, 40% of which were MRSA strains. Despite the application of high disinfection standards for the interior of the ambulance, it was not possible to kill all S. aureus strains, which may be because the pathogens in question produce a biofilm that effectively allows them to survive on various surfaces, including those disinfected. Almost 100% of the MRSA isolates were resistant to antibiotics from the β-lactam group (penicillin, ticarcillin, cefotaxime, and cefoxitin), the macrolide group (erythromycin) and the lincosamide group (clindamycin). However, only a few MRSA strains proved resistant to streptomycin (12.5%) and ciprofloxacin (37.5%). β-lactam antibiotics, such as cefotaxime (100% resistant strains) and penicillin (58% resistant strains), were also ineffective against MSSA. Although MSSA isolates showed slight resistance to ticarcillin and erythromycin (33.3%) and clindamycin (25%), the remaining antibiotics proved effective (no resistant strains). Conclusions: Among the isolated strains, the greatest resistance to β-lactam antibiotics and erythromycin was observed. Multidrug-resistant strains of S. aureus were found in the emergency medical system. Even the MSSA strains detected in the studied ambulance showed resistance to some of the antibiotics used. The prevalence of S. aureus strains within ambulances indicates the need for a high hygiene level in daily prehospital work with patients.