bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Induction of cerebellar cortical neurogenesis immediately following valproic acid exposure in ferret kits
Authors: Kamiya Shiori , Kobayashi Tetsuya , Sawada Kazuhiko 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionValproic acid (VPA) is an anticonvulsant/antiepileptic drug that regulates neurogenesis. Its effects vary depending on the timing of exposure and the types of neural progenitors involved. Neonatal exposure to VPA causes autism spectrum disorder-like behaviors in some mammalian species, including ferrets. Ferrets experience the cerebellar cortical histogenesis during early postnatal period. However, no studies have evaluated the effect of VPA on cerebellar corticohistogenesis. The present study aimed to determine the effects of VPA exposure on the developing cerebellar cortex in ferret kits with a particular focus on the cortical neurogenesis.MethodsThe experimental kits each received an intraperitoneal injection of VPA, 200 μg/g body weight, on postnatal days 6 and 7. EdU and BrdU were administered on postnatal days 5 and 7, respectively, to label cells proliferating prior to and following exposure to VPA.ResultsWe found that 2 h post BrdU injection, BrdU-labeled cells were abundantly distributed in the internal granular layer (IGL), whereas EdU-labeled cells were primarily relegated to the inner pre-migratory zone of the external granular layer (EGL). The density of BrdU-single-labeled cells was significantly lower in the EGL and significantly higher in the IGL of the VPA-exposed group, as compared to the control group. Immunostaining for doublecortin, a marker of immature neurons, was observed in BrdU-single-labeled cells in the IGL of the VPA-exposed group, which was significantly higher than that observed in the control group. EdU-single-labeled cells that had proliferated prior to VPA exposure were also detected in the IGL. While the cell density remained unchanged, significant changes were observed in the proportions of EdU-single-labeled cells immunostained with marker antigens; higher proportion of PCNA immunostaining, but lower proportion of S100 immunostaining in the VPA-exposed group compared to the control group.DiscussionThese findings suggest the presence of progenitors in the IGL of the developing cerebellar cortex in ferret kits. We called them “internal granular progenitors.” The progenitors may proliferate in response to VPA, leading the differentiated lineage more toward neurons than to glial cells. Thus, VPA may facilitate the differentiative division of internal granular progenitors to produce cerebellar granular neurons.
The prognostic value of zonal origin in clinically localized prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jin Shijie , Wu Liyi , Liang Zhen , Yan Weigang 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionCorrelation between zonal origin of clinically localized prostate cancer (PC) and biochemical recurrence (BCR) after treatment is still controversial.MethodsWe performed a meta-analysis of published articles to investigate the prognostic value of zonal origin in clinically localized PC. Literature was searched from Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, from inception to Nov 1st, 2022. The risk of BCR was compared between PC originating from transition zone with peripheral zone. Relative risk (RR) was pooled in a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were conducted to assess the source of heterogeneity.Results16 cohorts and 19,365 patients were included. PC originating from transition zone was associated with a lower risk of BCR (RR, 0.79, 95%CI; 0.69-0.92, I2, 76.8%). The association was consistent in studies with median follow-up time ≥60 months (RR, 0.65; 95%CI, 0.48 to 0.88, I2 56.8%), studies with NOS score ≥8 (RR, 0.70; 95%CI, 0.62 to 0.80, I2 32.4%), and studies using multivariate regression model (RR, 0.57; 95%CI, 0.48 to 0.69, I2 23%).DiscussionThis meta-analysis supported that transition zone origin was an independent prognostic factor of a better biochemical result in clinically localized prostate cancer after treatment.Systematic review registration10.37766/inplasy2023.11.0100, identifier INPLASY2023110100.
Case Report: Acute abdomen and large mesenteric mass as another face of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in an adolescent child: measure twice, act once!
Authors: Bakir Mustafa , Iqbal Umair , Gazal Ayoolamide N. , Robertson Daniel 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionDuring the Covid-19 era, acute abdomen and mesenteric lymphadenopathy were encountered as frequent mimic of appendicitis. This phenomenon can further complicate the diagnosis of acute abdominal conditions, not solely due to bacterial or viral intestinal infections but also attributable to post-infectious acute inflammatory states resulting in either undertreatment of inflammatory conditions or unnecessary surgery.Case presentationIn this case study, we present the case of an 11-year-old female who initially presented with fever and right lower quadrant abdominal pain, raising concerns of appendicitis. However, upon further investigation, it was revealed that she harbored a sizable mesenteric mass. Subsequent biopsy results unveiled a significant necrotic mesenteric lymphadenitis. Notably, this patient fulfilled the criteria for Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), a condition that manifested following persistent postoperative fever. Remarkably, the patient exhibited a highly favorable response to the treatment administered. This clinical scenario presents an atypical manifestation of MIS-C, as the patient displayed a substantial mesenteric mass alongside symptoms mimicking appendicitis, within the context of an acute abdomen.ConclusionClinicians should consider MIS-C and other post-infectious inflammatory conditions in mind when diagnosing acute abdominal cases. The presented case underscores the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of MIS-C that can mimic appendicitis, sometimes necessitating surgical resection of a large lymph node. We propose diagnostic flow chart to aid in the differentiation of acute bacterial appendicitis from MIS-C.
Cholecystectomy is associated with a higher risk of irritable bowel syndrome in the UK Biobank: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhao Jinyu , Tian Liang , Xia Bin , Mi Ningning , He Qiangsheng , Yang Man , Wang Danni , Wu Siqing , Li Zijun , Zhang Shiyong , Zhang Xianzhuo , Yue Ping , Lin Yanyan , Zhao Haitong , Zhang Baoping , Ma Zelong , Jiang Ningzu , Li Matu , Yuan Jinqiu , Nie Peng , Lu Linzhi , Meng Wenbo 
Published: December 2023

Background: Recent studies have shown that bile acids are essential in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) pathology, and cholecystectomy has direct effects on bile acid metabolism. However, whether cholecystectomy increases the risk of IBS remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the association between cholecystectomy and IBS risk in the UK Biobank (UKB).Methods: This study is a prospective analysis of 413,472 participants who were free of IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, or common benign digestive tract diseases. We identified incidents of IBS through self-reporting or links to primary healthcare and hospitalization data. We evaluated hazard ratios (HRs) adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviours, comorbidities, and medications.Results: During a median follow-up period of 12.7 years, we observed 15,503 new cases of IBS. Participants with a history of cholecystectomy had a 46% higher risk of IBS than those without (HR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.32–1.60), and further subtype analysis showed that the risk of IBS with diarrhoea was significantly higher than the risk of IBS without diarrhoea (HR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.30–2.25 vs. HR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.28–1.58). The overall covariate-adjusted HRs for IBS were similar between the group with both cholecystectomy and gallstones (HR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.32–1.58) and the group with cholecystectomy without gallstones (HR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.36–1.67) when the group without both cholecystectomy and gallstones was used as a reference. The overall covariate-adjusted HR was not significantly different in the group without cholecystectomy with gallstones (HR = 1.18, 95% CI: 0.95–1.47). The positive association of cholecystectomy with IBS risk did not change when stratifying the data based on age, sex, BMI, smoking, alcohol consumption, healthy diet, quality sleep, physical activity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, mental illness, NSAID intake, or acid inhibitor intake. Sensitivity analyses, including propensity score matching analysis and lagging the exposure for two or four years, indicated that the effects were robust.Conclusion: Cholecystectomy was associated with a higher risk of IBS, especially IBS with diarrhoea. Additional prospective randomized controlled and experimental studies are warranted to further validate the association and to explore the relevant biological mechanisms.
TRPA1 channel mediates methylglyoxal-induced mouse bladder dysfunction
Authors: Oliveira Akila L. , Medeiros Matheus L. , Gomes Erick de Toledo , Mello Glaucia Coelho , Costa Soraia Katia Pereira , Mónica Fabíola Z. , Antunes Edson 
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 channel (TRPA1) is expressed in urothelial cells and bladder nerve endings. Hyperglycemia in diabetic individuals induces accumulation of the highly reactive dicarbonyl compound methylglyoxal (MGO), which modulates TRPA1 activity. Long-term oral intake of MGO causes mouse bladder dysfunction. We hypothesized that TRPA1 takes part in the machinery that leads to MGO-induced bladder dysfunction. Therefore, we evaluated TRPA1 expression in the bladder and the effects of 1 h-intravesical infusion of the selective TRPA1 blocker HC-030031 (1 nmol/min) on MGO-induced cystometric alterations.Methods: Five-week-old female C57BL/6 mice received 0.5% MGO in their drinking water for 12 weeks, whereas control mice received tap water alone.Results: Compared to the control group, the protein levels and immunostaining for the MGO-derived hydroimidazolone isomer MG-H1 was increased in bladders of the MGO group, as observed in urothelium and detrusor smooth muscle. TRPA1 protein expression was significantly higher in bladder tissues of MGO compared to control group with TRPA1 immunostaining both lamina propria and urothelium, but not the detrusor smooth muscle. Void spot assays in conscious mice revealed an overactive bladder phenotype in MGO-treated mice characterized by increased number of voids and reduced volume per void. Filling cystometry in anaesthetized animals revealed an increased voiding frequency, reduced bladder capacity, and reduced voided volume in MGO compared to vehicle group, which were all reversed by HC-030031 infusion.Conclusion: TRPA1 activation is implicated in MGO-induced mouse overactive bladder. TRPA1 blockers may be useful to treat diabetic bladder dysfunction in individuals with high MGO levels.
Fat oxidation rates and cardiorespiratory responses during exercise in different subject populations with post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection: a comparison with normative percentile values
Authors: Meloni Andrea , Codella Roberto , Gotti Daniel , Di Gennaro Simone , Luzi Livio , Filipas Luca 
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) presents a spectrum of symptoms following acute COVID-19, with exercise intolerance being a prevalent manifestation likely linked to disrupted oxygen metabolism and mitochondrial function. This study aims to assess maximal fat oxidation (MFO) and exercise intensity at MFO (FATmax) in distinct PASC subject groups and compare these findings with normative data.Methods: Eight male subjects with PASC were involved in this study. The participants were divided into two groups: “endurance-trained” subjects (V˙O2max &gt; 55 mL/min/kg) and “recreationally active” subjects (V˙O2max &lt; 55 mL/min/kg). Each subject performed a graded exercise test until maximal oxygen consumption (V˙O2max) to measure fat oxidation. Subsequently, MFO was assessed, and FATmax was calculated as the ratio between V˙O2 at MFO and V˙O2 max.Results: The MFO and FATmax of “endurance-trained” subjects were 0.85, 0.89, 0.71, and 0.42 and 68%, 69%, 64%, and 53%, respectively. Three out of four subjects showed both MFO and FATmax values placed over the 80th percentile of normative data. The MFO and FATmax of “recreationally active” subjects were 0.34, 0.27, 0.35, and 0.38 and 47%, 39%, 43%, and 41%, respectively. All MFO and FATmax values of those subjects placed below the 20th percentile or between the 20th and 40th percentile.Discussion: Significant differences in MFO and FATmax values between ‘endurance-trained’ and “recreationally active” subjects suggest that specific endurance training, rather than simply an active lifestyle, may provide protective effects against alterations in mitochondrial function during exercise in subjects with PASC.
Nudging oral habits; application of behavioral economics in oral health promotion: a critical review
Authors: Kazemian Ali , Hoseinzadeh Melika , Banihashem Rad Seyed Ahmad , Jouya Anahid , Tahani Bahareh 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundOral health disorders significantly contribute to the global incidence of chronic diseases. Nudge interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing people’s decision-making and self-management capacities in a cost-efficient manner. As a result, these interventions could be valuable tools for fostering improved oral care habits. This critical review explores potential behavioral nudges applicable to promoting oral health.MethodsA thorough electronic literature search was conducted on Scopus, Embase, and PubMed databases for papers published post-2008. The search focused on empirical evidence concerning the direct and indirect application of Nudge theory in oral health enhancement. In addition, the investigation included the nudge intervention’s role in managing common non-communicable disease risk factors (tobacco, alcohol, and sugar) and their use in other health sectors.Results and conclusionThere is a dearth of studies on behavioral economics, particularly those involving reward and reminder techniques. However, various successful nudge interventions have been identified in other sectors that aim to improve health decisions. These include strategies encouraging healthier nutritional choices, tobacco and alcohol cessation, medication compliance, routine physical activity, and regular health check-ups. Such interventions can also have direct or indirect positive impacts on oral health. Implementing these interventions within an oral care framework could promote oral health due to similar underlying cognitive mechanisms. However, different types of nudge interventions have varying degrees of effectiveness. Furthermore, factors such as the method of delivery and the characteristics of the targeted population significantly influence the outcome of the intervention. Hence, it is imperative to conduct extensive studies in diverse socioeconomic settings to fully understand the potentials, limitations, and impacts of nudge interventions in promoting oral health.
Prediction and assessment of xenoestrogens mixture effects using the in vitro ERα-CALUX assay
Authors: Elskens Marc , Boonen Imke , Eisenreich Steven 
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Many natural or synthetic compounds used in foods, dietary supplements, and food contact materials (FCMs) are suspected endocrine disruptors (EDs). Currently, scientific evidence to predict the impacts on biological systems of ED mixtures is lacking. In this study, three classes of substances were considered: i) phytoestrogens, ii) plant protection products (PPP) and iii) substances related to FCMs. Fourteen compounds were selected based on their potential endocrine activity and their presence in food and FCMs.Methods: These compounds were evaluated using an in vitro gene expression assay, the ERα-CALUX, to characterize their responses on the estrogen receptor alpha. Cells were exposed to fixed ratio mixtures and non-equipotent mixtures of full and partial agonists. The concentration-response curves measured for the three classes of compounds were characterized by variable geometric parameters in terms of maximum response (efficacy), sensitivity (slope) and potency (median effective concentration EC50). To account for these variations, a generic response addition (GRA) model was derived from mass action kinetics.Results: Although GRA does not allow us to clearly separate the concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) models, it was possible to determine in a statistically robust way whether the combined action of the chemicals in the mixture acted by interaction (synergy and antagonism) or by additive behavior. This distinction is crucial for assessing the risks associated with exposure to xenoestrogens. A benchmark dose approach was used to compare the response of phytoestrogen blends in the presence and absence of the hormone estradiol (E2). At the same time, 12 mixtures of 2–5 constituents including phytoestrogens, phthalates and PPPs in proportions close to those found in food products were tested. In 95% of cases, the response pattern observed showed a joint and independent effect of the chemicals on ER.Discussion: Overall, these results validate a risk assessment approach based on an additive effects model modulated by intrinsic toxicity factors. Here, the CA and IA approaches cannot be distinguished solely based on the shape of the concentration response curves. However, the optimized GRA model is more robust than CA when the efficacy, potency, and sensitivity of individual chemical agonists show large variations.
Ameliorative Effect of Pomegranate Peel Powder on the Growth Indices, Oocysts Shedding, and Intestinal Health of Broilers under an Experimentally Induced Coccidiosis Condition
Authors: Hafeez Abdul , Piral Qambar , Naz Shabana , Almutairi Mikhlid H. , Alrefaei Abdulwahed Fahad , Ayasan Tugay , Khan Rifat Ullah , Losacco Caterina 
Published: December 2023

Coccidiosis stands as one of the most prevalent enteric parasitic diseases in broilers. While antibiotics have traditionally been used for the control of coccidiosis, concerns related to drug residues and the emergence of resistance in chickens have prompted consumer apprehensions. In this study, 600 Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly divided into five groups: a control group without specific treatments (NC), broilers deliberately exposed to Eimeria tenella (positive control), broilers challenged with E. tenella but dosed with antibiotics (AT), and two groups experimentally exposed to E. tenella while simultaneously receiving pomegranate peel powder (PPE) at dosages of 3 g/kg (3PPP) and 6 g/kg (6PPP). The results revealed that all Eimeria-treated birds exhibited significantly worse growth performance compared to the NC. Notably, a marked improvement was observed in birds infected with E. tenella when supplemented with 6PPP. Both 3PPP and 6PPP supplementation significantly reduced lesion scores, mortality, and oocysts per gram (OPG). Furthermore, histological examination of the cecum indicated that the villus dimensions were restored by PPP supplementation in infected birds. In conclusion, Eimeria-infected birds supplemented with 6PPP experienced an enhanced growth rate, lowered lesion scores, alleviated oocyst shedding, and improved intestinal histological dimensions.
Cloning, Identification, and Functional Analysis of the Foxl2 Gene in Procambarus clarkii
Authors: Huang Jin , Zhu Weilin , Peng Min , Yang Chunling , Chen Xiaohan , Wu Tiejun , Zeng Digang , Zhao Yongzhen , Chen Xiuli 
Published: December 2023

Procambarus clarkii is the most widely distributed freshwater shrimp in China, with important economic value and great potential for development. The forkheadboxL2 (Foxl2) gene has been found to be involved in the reproductive development of many crustaceans. To understand the role of the Foxl2 gene in the gonad development of P. clarkii, we designed CDS-specific primers for the P. clarkii Foxl2 (PcFoxl2) gene and cloned its CDS sequence using RT-PCR. The nucleotide and protein sequence information was then analyzed through bioinformatics analysis. The expression and subcellular localization of PcFoxl2 in various tissues were detected using qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization. The effects of PcFoxl2 knockdown on gonad development were investigated using RNA interference. The results showed that the CDS length of the PcFoxl2 gene was 1614 bp and encoded 537 amino acids. Protein sequence comparison and phylogenetic analysis showed that PcFoxl2 was the closest relative to Crayfish. qRT-PCR analysis indicated that the expression level of PcFoxl2 in the testis was significantly higher (>40 fold) than that in the ovary (p < 0.01). The in situ hybridization results showed that PcFoxl2 was expressed in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus of egg cells, and that the expression was strongest in egg cells at the early stage of yolk synthesis, while weak in the secondary oocytes. The positive signal was strongest in the spermatocyte nucleolus, while only a trace signal was observed in the cytoplasm. After interfering with the PcFoxl2 gene using dsRNA, the expression of PcFoxl2 in the RNA interference group was significantly lower than that in the control group, and this interference effect lasted for one week. Moreover, the gonad index of the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05) after 10 days of P. clarkii cultivation following PcFoxl2 knockdown. The expression levels of the nanos and S3a genes, which are related to gonad development, decreased significantly after PcFoxl2 gene interference. The results suggest that the Foxl2 gene is involved in the growth and development of gonads, particularly in the development of testis, and is related to the early development of oocytes. This study provides a theoretical basis for the artificial breeding of P. clarkii.
Harnessing the Synergy of the Cyanobacteria-Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria for Improved Maize (Zea mays) Growth and Soil Health
Authors: Solomon Wogene , Mutum Lamnganbi , Rakszegi Mariann , Janda Tibor , Molnár Zoltán 
Published: December 2023

Intensive use of chemicals in agriculture harms the soil, disrupts the ecological balance, and impacts microorganisms. Biofertilizers are gaining traction due to their eco-friendly and cost-effective benefits. This study evaluates the potential of the cyanobacterium MACC-612 (Nostoc piscinale) and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) (Azospirillum lipoferum, Pseudomonas fluorescens) in enhancing crop growth, yield, and soil health. A two-year field study was conducted using a factorial approach and a completely randomized block design, comprising four replications. The three levels of the cynobacterium (0, 0.3, or 1 g/L of N. MACC-612) and different bacteria strains were used in the experiments. The results demonstrated substantial enhancements in seed number per ear, kernel weight, and yield when using N. piscinale and PGPB, whether used individually or in combination. The soil pH, humus, (NO3− + NO2−)-nitrogen, and soil microbial biomass showed significant increases across both years. The combining application of the N. piscinale (0.3 g/L) with A. lipoferum increased grain yield by 33.20% in the first year and 31.53% in the second. The humus and (NO3− + NO2−)-nitrogen content significantly rose in treatments involving N. piscinale at 0.3 g/L combined with A. lipoferum at about 20.25% and 59.2%, respectively, in comparison to the untreated control. Hence, the most effective approach was the combined use of N. piscinale and A. lipoferum, which enhanced maize growth and soil fertility.