Prediction study of prognostic nutrition index on the quality of life of patients with cervical cancer undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy
Objective To assess the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and quality of life (QOL) of patients with cervical cancer (CC) who underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy and to reveal the effect of PNI on QOL and its prognostic value. Methods A total of 138 CC patients who underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from January 2020 to October 2022 were selected as the study subjects via convenient sampling. According to the PNI cut-off value of 48.8, they were divided into a high-PNI group and a low-PNI group, and the quality of life of the two groups was compared. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to draw the survival curve, and the Log-Rank test was employed to compare the survival rates of the two groups. Results The scores of physical functioning and overall QOL in the high-PNI group were significantly higher than those in the low-PNI group (P < 0.05). The scores of fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain and diarrhea were higher than those in the low-PNI group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The objective response rates were 96.77% and 81.25% in the high-PNI group and the low-PNI group, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.045). The 1-year survival rates of patients with high PNI and low PNI were 92.55% and 72.56% in the high-PNI group and the low-PNI group, respectively; the difference in survival rates was statistically significant (P = 0.006). Conclusion The overall quality of life of CC patients with low PNI receiving radiotherapy and chemotherapy is lower than that of patients with high PNI. Low PNI reduces the tolerance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy and the objective response rate, which can be used as a prognostic indicator for cervical cancer patients.
Chen et al. (2023) Prediction study of prognostic nutrition index on the quality of life of patients with cervical cancer undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy. PeerJ 11:e15442 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15442
Predictive value of immunoglobulin G, activated partial thromboplastin time, platelet, and indirect bilirubin for delayed viral clearance in patients infected with the Omicron variant
Background Omicron is the recently emerged highly transmissible severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 variant that has caused a dramatic increase in coronavirus disease-2019 infection cases worldwide. This study was to investigate the association between demographic and laboratory findings, and the duration of Omicron viral clearance. Methods Approximately 278 Omicron cases at the Ruijin Hospital Luwan Branch, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine were retrospectively analyzed between August 11 and August 31, 2022. Demographic and laboratory data were also collected. The association between demographics, laboratory findings, and duration of Omicron viral clearance was analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results Univariate logistic regression analyses showed that a prolonged viral clearance time was significantly associated with older age and lower immunoglobulin (Ig) G and platelet (PLT) levels. Using multinomial logistic regression analyses, direct bilirubin, IgG, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and PLT were independent factors for longer viral shedding duration. The model combining direct bilirubin, IgG, APTT, and PLT identifies patients infected with Omicron whose viral clearance time was ≥7 days with 62.7% sensitivity and 83.4% specificity. Conclusion These findings suggest that direct bilirubin, IgG, PLT, and APTT are significant risk factors for a longer viral shedding duration in patients infected with Omicron. Measuring levels of direct bilirubin, IgG, PLT, and APTT is advantageous to identify patients infected with Omicron with longer viral shedding duration.
Zhang et al. (2023) Predictive value of immunoglobulin G, activated partial thromboplastin time, platelet, and indirect bilirubin for delayed viral clearance in patients infected with the Omicron variant. PeerJ 11:e15443 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15443
Blood cells and hematological parameters of Chiala Mountain Salamander, Batrachuperus karlschmidti (Urodela, Hynobiidae)
Hematological parameters are essential indices for assessing the function of blood and reflecting not only the health status of animal but also their physiological adaptation to the environment. Herein, the composition of blood cells and the hematological parameters of wild Batrachuperus karlschmidti were examined for the first time, and the effects of sex, body size, body mass, and age on the hematological parameters were explored. The morphology and morphometric data of the blood cells, as well as the hematological parameters, of B. karlschmidti were slightly differ from those of its congener. However, hematological differences between sexes were only found in erythrocyte and leukocyte count, and mean cell volume (MCV), which possibly reflecting the need for better oxygen distribution and stronger immune protection for reproduction. Hematocrit (Hct) and mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) were strongly dependent on body mass. These also might have been attributed to higher oxygen requirements with larger body masses. This is a pilot project exploring the hematology of this species that may help establish hematological parameters in future for supporting species protection and monitoring studies, as well as help understanding the physiological adaptation of this species.
Liu et al. (2023) Blood cells and hematological parameters of Chiala Mountain Salamander, Batrachuperus karlschmidti (Urodela, Hynobiidae). PeerJ 11:e15446 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15446
Kukri snakes Oligodon Fitzinger, 1826 of the Western Palearctic with the resurrection of Contia transcaspica Nikolsky, 1902 (Reptilia, Squamata, Colubridae)
The kukri snakes of the genus Oligodon Fitzinger, 1826 reach the westernmost limits of their distribution in Middle and Southwest Asia (Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkmenistan), and the Palearctic portions of Pakistan. In this article, we review the systematics and distribution of the two species native to this region, Oligodon arnensis (Shaw, 1802) and Oligodon taeniolatus (Jerdon, 1853) based on an integrative approach combining morphological, molecular, and species distribution modeling (SDM) data. Phylogenetic analyses recover O. taeniolatus populations from Iran and Turkmenistan in a clade with the O. arnensis species complex, rendering the former species paraphyletic relative to O. taeniolatus sensu stricto on the Indian subcontinent. To correct this, we resurrect the name Contia transcaspica Nikolsky, 1902 from the synonymy of O. taeniolatus and assign it to populations in Middle–Southwest Asia. So far, Oligodon transcaspicus comb. et stat. nov. is known only from the Köpet–Dag Mountain Range of northeast Iran and southern Turkmenistan, but SDM mapping suggests it may have a wider range. Genetic samples of O. “arnensis” from northern Pakistan are nested in a clade sister to the recently described Oligodon churahensis Mirza, Bhardwaj & Patel, 2021, and are phylogenetically separate from O. arnensis sensu stricto in south India and Sri Lanka. Based on morphological similarity, the Afghanistan and Pakistan populations are assigned to Oligodon russelius (Daudin, 1803) and we synonymize O. churahensis with this species. Our investigation leads us to remove O. taeniolatus from the snake fauna of Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkmenistan, with the consequence that only Oligodon transcaspicus comb. et stat. nov. and O. russelius are present in these countries. Additional studies are needed to resolve the taxonomy of the O. taeniolatus and O. arnensis species complexes on the Indian subcontinent, and an updated key for both groups is provided.
Lee et al. (2023) Kukri snakes Oligodon Fitzinger, 1826 of the Western Palearctic with the resurrection of Contia transcaspica Nikolsky, 1902 (Reptilia, Squamata, Colubridae). PeerJ 11:e15185 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15185
Characterization of gut microbiota in adults with coronary atherosclerosis
Background Cardiovascular disease, which is mainly caused by coronary atherosclerosis, is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Gut microbiota likely play an important role in coronary atherosclerosis. This study aims to investigate the microbiota profile of adults with coronary atherosclerosis to provide a theoretical basis for future research. Methods Fecal samples were collected from 35 adult patients diagnosed with coronary atherosclerosis and 32 healthy adults in Nanjing, China, and the V3-V4 region of 16S rDNA genes was sequenced using high-throughput sequencing. Differences in alpha diversity, beta diversity, and gut microbiota composition between the two groups were then compared. Results A beta diversity analysis revealed significant differences between adults with coronary atherosclerosis and controls, but there was no statistical difference in alpha diversity between the two groups. There were also differences in the composition of the gut microbiota between the two groups. The genera, Megamonas, Streptococcus, Veillonella, Ruminococcus_torques_group, Prevotella_2, Tyzzerella_4, were identified as potential biomarkers for coronary atherosclerosis. Conclusion There are some differences in the gut microbiota of adults with coronary atherosclerosis compared to healthy adults. The insights from this study could be used to explore microbiome-based mechanisms for coronary atherosclerosis.
Dong et al. (2023) Characterization of gut microbiota in adults with coronary atherosclerosis. PeerJ 11:e15245 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15245
GC-MS-based untargeted metabolic profiling of malignant mesothelioma plasma
Background Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a cancer caused mainly by asbestos exposure, and is aggressive and incurable. This study aimed to identify differential metabolites and metabolic pathways involved in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. Methods By using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), this study examined the plasma metabolic profile of human malignant mesothelioma. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses and pathway analyses to identify differential metabolites, enriched metabolism pathways, and potential metabolic targets. The area under the receiver-operating curve (AUC) criterion was used to identify possible plasma biomarkers. Results Using samples from MM (n = 19) and healthy control (n = 22) participants, 20 metabolites were annotated. Seven metabolic pathways were disrupted, involving alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism; arginine and proline metabolism; butanoate and histidine metabolism; beta-alanine metabolism; and pentose phosphate metabolic pathway. The AUC was used to identify potential plasma biomarkers. Using a threshold of AUC = 0.9, five metabolites were identified, including xanthurenic acid, (s)-3,4-hydroxybutyric acid, D-arabinose, gluconic acid, and beta-d-glucopyranuronic acid. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a plasma metabolomics analysis using GC-MS analyses of Asian MM patients. Our identification of these metabolic abnormalities is critical for identifying plasma biomarkers in patients with MM. However, additional research using a larger population is needed to validate our findings.
Wang et al. (2023) GC-MS-based untargeted metabolic profiling of malignant mesothelioma plasma. PeerJ 11:e15302 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15302
Hyperoside alleviates doxorubicin-induced myocardial cells apoptosis by inhibiting the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1/p38 pathway
Background Cardiotoxicity is a side effect of the anthracycline broad-spectrum anti-tumor agent, doxorubicin (DOX). Hyperoside, a flavonoid glycoside extracted from many herbs, has anti-apoptotic and anticancer properties. However, its impact on the alleviation of DOX-induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes remains elusive. Methods The HL-1 cell line was treated with 100 µ M hyperoside for 1 h prior to treatment with 100 µ M hyperoside and 1 µ M DOX for 24 h. The cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to detect cell viability; DCFH-DA fluorescent probe was used to detect (reactive oxygen species) ROS; biochemical methods were used to detect the activity of glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA); the degree of apoptosis following DOX insult was assessed using immunofluorescence staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated deoxy uridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay; the change in protein expression of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), p38, and apoptosis markers was determined using western blot. Results Hyperoside ameliorated DOX-induced oxidative stress in HL-1 cells, up-regulated GSH, SOD and CAT activity, reduced ROS production and inhibited MDA overproduction. Moreover, in addition to promoting HL-1 cell apoptosis, DOX administration also increased B-cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2-associated X-protein and cleaved caspase-3 protein levels and decreased Bcl-2 protein level. Hyperoside therapy, however, significantly reversed the impact of DOX on the cardiomyocytes. Mechanically, DOX treatment increased the phosphorylation of the ASK1/p38 axis whereas hyperoside treatment attenuated those changes. In a further step, hyperoside synergizes with DOX to kill MDA-MB-231 cells. Conclusions Hyperoside protects HL-1 cells from DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting the ASK1/p38 signaling pathway. Meanwhile, hyperoside maintained the cytotoxicity of DOX in MDA-MB-231 cells.
Chen et al. (2023) Hyperoside alleviates doxorubicin-induced myocardial cells apoptosis by inhibiting the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1/p38 pathway. PeerJ 11:e15315 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15315
The Zoige pioneer plant Leymus secalinus has different endophytic bacterial community structures to adapt to environmental conditions
Background Leymus secalinus is a pioneer plant grown in the Zoige desertified alpine grassland and it is also one of the dominant plant species used for environmental remediation. L. secalinus plays a large role in vegetation reconstruction in sandy land, but the abundance and diversity of its endophytes have not yet been investigated. Objectives This study was performed to investigate the changes in the endophytic bacterial community structure of L. secalinus under different ecological environments and to analyze the effects of environmental changes and different plant tissues on the L. secalinus endophytic bacteria. Methods Leaf, stem, and root tissue samples of L. secalinus were collected from Zoige Glassland (Alpine sandy land) and an open field nursery (Control). DNA was extracted and the 16S ribosomal DNA was amplified. The sequence library was sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq platform and clustered by operational taxonomic units (OTUs). α-diversity and β-diversity analyses, species diversity analyses, functional prediction, and redundancy (RDA) analyses for the soil physicochemical properties were conducted. Results α-diversity and β-diversity analyses showed that the endophytic bacteria in L. secalinus varied in different areas and tissues. The abundance of Allorhizobium-Neorhizobium-Pararhizobium-Rhizobium, which is related to nitrogen fixation, increased significantly in the L. secalinus found in the Zoige Grassland. Moreover, the abundance of nutrition metabolism and anti-stress abilities increased in functional prediction in the desert samples. The soil physicochemical properties had an insignificant influence on bacterial diversity. Conclusion The changes in the endophytic bacterial community structure in L. secalinus were significant and were caused by environmental alterations and plant choice. The endophytic bacteria in L. secalinus grown in alpine sandy land may have greater anti-stress properties and the ability to fix nitrogen, which has potential value in environmental remediation and agricultural production.
Xia et al. (2023) The Zoige pioneer plant Leymus secalinus has different endophytic bacterial community structures to adapt to environmental conditions. PeerJ 11:e15363 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15363
Major ion compositions, sources and risk assessment of karst stream under the influence of anthropogenic activities, Guizhou Province, Southwest China
To explore the influence of different types of anthropogenic activity on the rivers, we investigate the major ion composition, sources and risk assessment of the karst stream (Youyu stream and Jinzhong stream), which are heavily influenced by mining activities and urban sewage, respectively. The chemical compositions of the Youyu stream water, which is heavily influenced by mining activities, are dominated by Ca2+ and SO42–. However, the chemical compositions of the Jinzhong stream water, which is heavily influenced by urban sewage, are dominated by Ca2+ and HCO3–. The Ca2+, Mg2+ and HCO3– in Jinzhong stream are mainly derived from rock weathering, while the Youyu stream is affected by acid mine drainage, and sulfuric acid is involved in the weathering process. Ion sources analysis indicates that the Na+, K+, NO3–, and Cl– in the Jinzhong stream mainly derive from urban sewage discharge; but NO3– and Cl– of the Youyu stream mainly derive from agricultural activities, and Na+, K+ are mainly from natural sources. The element ratios analysis indicates the ratio of SO42–/Mg2+ in Youyu stream (4.61) polluted by coal mine is much higher than that in Jinzhong stream (1.29), and the ratio of (Na++K++Cl–)/Mg2+ in Jinzhong stream (1.81) polluted by urban sewage is higher than Youyu stream (0.64). Moreover, the ratios of NO3−/Na+, NO3−/K+, and NO3−/Cl− in the agriculturally polluted Youyu stream were higher than those in the Jinzhong stream. We can identify the impact of human activities on streams by ion ratios (SO42–/Mg2+, (Na++K++Cl–)/Mg2+, NO3−/Na+, NO3−/K+, and NO3−/Cl−). The health risk assessment shows the HQT and HQN for children and adults are higher in Jinzhong stream than in Youyu stream and the total HQ value (HQT) of children was higher than one at J1 in the Jinzhong stream, which shows that children in Jinzhong stream basin are threatened by non-carcinogenic pollutants. Each HQ value of F− and NO3− for children was higher than 0.1 in the tributaries into Aha Lake, indicating that the children may also be potentially endangered.
Yang et al. (2023) Major ion compositions, sources and risk assessment of karst stream under the influence of anthropogenic activities, Guizhou Province, Southwest China. PeerJ 11:e15368 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15368
Effects of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation vs. conventional therapy in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Background Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent entrapment neuropathy resulting in hand pain, numbness and/or weakness, which significantly impairs hand function in daily activities. Repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) is a potential therapeutic option for focal peripheral nerve disease and may be beneficial for CTS treatment. We aimed to compare the effects of rPMS and conventional therapy in the management of CTS. Methods A blinded assessor randomly assigned 24 participants with electrodiagnostically-confirmed mild or moderate CTS to either rPMS or conventional therapy. Both groups were briefed on disease progression and tendon-gliding exercises. In the intervention group, the rPMS protocol, five sessions of rPMS—with a frequency of 10 Hz, 10 pulses/train, and 100 trains/session—were performed over a period of 2 weeks, with three sessions in the first week and two sessions in the second week. At baseline and the end of the second week, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire, pinch strength, and electrodiagnostic results were evaluated. Results The rPMS group demonstrated significantly greater within-group improvement in symptom severity scores (2.3 vs. 1.6, p = 0.009) and pinch strength (10.6 lbs vs. 13.8 lbs, p < 0.001). Regarding electrodiagnostic parameters, sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitude was significantly increased (8.7 µV vs. 14.3 µV, p = 0.002) within the group treated with rPMS. With conventional therapy, there were no statistically significant within-group differences. Multiple linear regression models showed that there were no significant differences in other outcomes in between-group comparisons. Conclusions Five sessions of rPMS resulted in significant reduction in symptom severity, improvement in pinch strength and increase in SNAP amplitude. Future research should investigate the clinical utility of rPMS using a larger sample and longer treatment and follow-up durations.
Panathoop et al. (2023) Effects of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation vs. conventional therapy in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome: a pilot randomized controlled trial. PeerJ 11:e15398 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15398