Differential Patterns Research Articles

Glucose fluctuations aggravate cardiomyocyte apoptosis by enhancing the interaction between Txnip and Akt

BackgroundGlucose fluctuations may be involved in the pathophysiological process of cardiomyocyte apoptosis, but the exact mechanism remains elusive. This study focused on exploring the mechanisms related to glucose fluctuation-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis.MethodsDiabetic rats established via an injection of streptozotocin were randomized to five groups: the controlled diabetic (CD) group, the uncontrolled diabetic (UD) group, the glucose fluctuated diabetic (GFD) group, the GFD group rats with the injection of 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl) (GFD + NaCl) and the GFD group rats with the injection of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) (GFD + NAC). Twelve weeks later, cardiac function and apoptosis related protein expressions were tested. Proteomic analysis was performed to further analyze the differential protein expression pattern of CD and GFD.ResultsThe left ventricular ejection fraction levels and fractional shortening levels were decreased in the GFD group, compared with those in the CD and UD groups. Positive cells tested by DAB-TUNEL were increased in the GFD group, compared with those in the CD group. The expression of Bcl-2 was decreased, but the expressions of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 were increased in response to glucose fluctuations. Compared with CD, there were 527 upregulated and 152 downregulated proteins in GFD group. Txnip was one of the differentially expressed proteins related to oxidative stress response. The Txnip expression was increased in the GFD group, while the Akt phosphorylation level was decreased. The interaction between Txnip and Akt was enhanced when blood glucose fluctuated. Moreover, the application of NAC partially reversed glucose fluctuations-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis.ConclusionsGlucose fluctuations lead to cardiomyocyte apoptosis by up-regulating Txnip expression and enhancing Txnip-Akt interaction.

Understanding involvement in environmental activism: relationships to pathological narcissistic grandiosity, virtue signaling, dominance, and sensation seeking

In a pre-registered study, we sought initial evidence for the relationship between pathological narcissistic grandiosity and involvement in environmental activism. This relationship was predicted based on the dark-ego-vehicle principle (DEVP) for which research is currently still rare. Using a socio-demographically diverse US sample (N = 1,145), we not only aimed at conceptually replicating previous findings on the DEVP but also at examining differential patterns of narcissistic engagement in environmental activism. In particular, we expected higher pathological narcissistic grandiosity to be more strongly related to greater engagement in environmental leadership actions than to greater engagement in environmental participatory actions. Results support the validity of the DEVP by showing that higher pathological narcissistic grandiosity was related to greater involvement in environmental activism, even above and beyond relevant covariates (i.e., pathological narcissistic vulnerability, age, and gender). Also, we found positive relationships between involvement in environmental activism and typical correlates of pathological narcissistic grandiosity (i.e., virtue signaling, dominance, and sensation seeking). Contrary to our predictions, we did not find the relationship between pathological narcissistic grandiosity and environmental activism to be more intense for environmental leadership actions compared to environmental participatory actions. These results are discussed considering the DEVP.

Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Heterogeneous Role of Conducting Films Upon Electrical Stimulation.

Central nervous system (CNS) injuries and neurodegenerative diseases have markedly poor prognoses and can result in permanent dysfunction due to the general inability of CNS neurons to regenerate. Differentiation of transplanted stem cells has emerged as a therapeutic avenue to regenerate tissue architecture in damaged areas. Electrical stimulation is a promising approach for directing the differentiation outcomes and pattern of outgrowth of transplanted stem cells, however traditional inorganic bio-electrodes can induce adverse effects such as inflammation. This study demonstrates the implementation of two organic thin films, a polymer/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite (P(rGO)) and PEDOT:PSS, that have favorable properties for implementation as conductive materials for electrical stimulation, as well as an inorganic indium tin oxide (ITO) conductive film. Transcriptomic analysis reveals that electrical stimulation improves neuronal differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells on all three films, with the greatest effect for P(rGO). Unique material- and electrical stimuli-mediated effects are observed, associated with differentiation, cell-substrate adhesion, and translation. The work demonstrates that P(rGO) and PEDOT:PSS are highly promising organic materials for the development of biocompatible, conductive scaffolds that will enhance electrically-aided stem cell therapeutics for CNS injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

Gender Dimensions of Vulnerabilities, Adaptations and Alternative Livelihoods of the Closed Season in Elmina – Ghana: A Qualitative Study

A closed season policy has emerged as an ocean governance strategy aimed at protecting and conserving fish stocks across countries and coastal areas. Its implementation has produced traces of vulnerabilities, and forms of livelihood adaptations and alternative livelihood opportunities. However, little is known about how these occur among gender groups. This paper therefore focuses on the gender dimensions of vulnerabilities, adaptations and alternative livelihoods during the closed season in Elmina, Ghana, within the feminist political ecology framework. It employed Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) from purposively selected fishermen and fish processors. The study found significant differences in the vulnerability patterns among the gender groups, albeit some similarities. We further observed more fluid roles among the women than the men because the women were ready to undertake alternative livelihood options that were traditionally male-based during the closed season. Based on these results, we contend that political decisions toward environmental sustainability may create vulnerability and fluid adaptation patterns which may vary among gender groups in the light of their differential patterns of access, control and positionalities within the fishing industry.

Climate change vulnerability and conservation strategies for tertiary relict tree species: Insights from landscape genomics ofTaxus cuspidata.

The unprecedented habitat fragmentation or loss has threatened the existence of many species. Therefore, it is essential to understand whether and how these species can pace with the environmental changes. Recent advantages in landscape genomics enabled us to identify molecular signatures of adaptation and predict how populations will respond to changing environments, providing new insights into the conservation of species. Here, we investigated the pattern of neutral and putative adaptive genetic variation and its response to changing environments in a tertiary relict tree species, Taxus cuspidata Sieb. et Zucc, which is distributed in northeast China and adjacent regions. We investigated the pattern of genetic diversity and differentiation using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq) and seven nuclear microsatellites (nSSRs) datasets. We further explored the endangered mechanism, predicted its vulnerability in the future, and provided guidelines for the conservation and management of this species. RAD-seq identified 16,087 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in natural populations. Both the SNPs and nSSRs datasets showed high levels of genetic diversity and low genetic differentiation in T. cuspidata. Outlier detection by F ST outlier analysis and genotype-environment associations (GEAs) revealed 598 outlier SNPs as putative adaptive SNPs. Linear redundancy analysis (RDA) and nonlinear gradient forest (GF) showed that the contribution of climate to genetic variation was greater than that of geography, and precipitation played an important role in putative adaptive genetic variation. Furthermore, the genetic offset and risk of non-adaptedness (RONA) suggested that the species at the northeast edge may be more vulnerable in the future. These results suggest that although the species has maintained high current genetic diversity in the face of recent habitat loss and fragmentation, future climate change is likely to threaten the survival of the species. Temperature (Bio03) and precipitation (Prec05) variables can be potentially used as predictors of response of T. cuspidata under future climate. Together, this study provides a theoretical framework for conservation and management strategies for wildlife species in the context of future climate change.

Integrated gene expression and network analysis identify drought-response genes and pathways in Solanum: a computational study

At times of rapid global climatic changes, refining drought tolerance in tomatoes is a demanding concern. Drought-resistant wild tomato relatives offer a valued resource for studying drought response mechanisms and leveraging them for breeding. To understand drought-response mechanisms in Solanum, we performed an integrated gene expression, transcription factor (TF), and network-based analysis in wild (Solanum pimpinellifolium L.) and cultivated (Solanum lycopersicum L.) tomato species with differing drought tolerance. This integrated analysis unveiled distinct gene expression patterns under drought stress in both species. Ethylene-responsive factors (ERFs) were notably the most significantly expressed transcription factors in both varieties. Additionally, species-specific TF expression was observed, such as Ethylene Insensitive3-like (EIL) and MIKC_MADS in the wild type, and Zinc Finger homeodomain (ZF-HD) in the cultivated variety. Differential expression pattern in ROS rummaging and heat shock proteins was observed in the top DEGs of both species. Network analysis highlighted shared genes involved in crucial pathways like jasmonic acid biosynthesis, the protein kinase pathway, and reactive oxygen species foraging in both species. Notably, the wild variety showed altered expression of genes associated with jasmonic acid/ethylene biosynthesis, antioxidant response, heat shock proteins, and cell wall remodeling. These observations offer insights into the differences in drought response in both species and suggest the role of jasmonic acid/ethylene biosynthesis, antioxidant response and ROS scavenging as significant factors contributing to improved drought tolerance in S. pimpinellifolium.

Cloning and expression profiling of peptide YY in the brain of common carp, Cyprinus carpio

Peptide YY (PYY) is an anorectic brain-gut pancreatic peptide that helps in feeding regulation by reducing appetite and is well characterized in mammals. The role of PYY in relation to brain is least studied in mammals as well as in lower vertebrates including fish, however high expression was evident in male reproductive tissue. In this regard, this study attempts to evaluate the significance of PYY in the brain of common carp, Cyprinus carpio. As a first step, the cDNA of PYY from brain of adult male carp was cloned. Following which expression analysis was performed using juvenile and adult fish. The differential distribution pattern in various regions of brain and ontogeny expression analysis indicated that PYY may involve in physiological processes related to brain-pituitary axis. In addition, a significant decrease in neuropeptide Y expression was observed upon PYY- endoribonuclease-prepared small interfering RNA transfection in brain cells, in vitro indicating plausible PYY-NPY interaction in brain-pituitary axis of common carp.

Genome-Wide Identification of NAC Family Genes and Their Expression Analyses in Response to Osmotic Stress in Cannabis sativa L.

NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2) transcription factors are unique and essential for plant growth and development. Although the NAC gene family has been identified in a wide variety of plants, its chromosomal location and function in Cannabis sativa are still unknown. In this study, a total of 69 putative CsNACs were obtained, and chromosomal location analysis indicated that the CsNAC genes mapped unevenly to 10 chromosomes. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the 69 CsNACs could be divided into six subfamilies. Additionally, the CsNAC genes in group IV-a are specific to Cannabis sativa and contain a relatively large number of exons. Promoter analysis revealed that most CsNAC promoters contained cis-elements related to plant hormones, the light response, and abiotic stress. Furthermore, transcriptome expression profiling revealed that 24 CsNAC genes in two Cannabis sativa cultivars (YM1 and YM7) were significantly differentially expressed under osmotic stress, and these 12 genes presented differential expression patterns across different cultivars according to quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis. Among these, the genes homologous to the CsNAC18, CsNAC24, and CsNAC61 genes have been proven to be involved in the response to abiotic stress and might be candidate genes for further exploration to determine their functions. The present study provides a comprehensive insight into the sequence characteristics, structural properties, evolutionary relationships, and expression patterns of NAC family genes under osmotic stress in Cannabis sativa and provides a basis for further functional characterization of CsNAC genes under osmotic stress to improve agricultural traits in Cannabis sativa.

Pattern Formation and Bistability in a Synthetic Intercellular Genetic Toggle.

Differentiation within multicellular organisms is a complex process that helps to establish spatial patterning and tissue formation within the body. Often, the differentiation of cells is governed by morphogens and intercellular signaling molecules that guide the fate of each cell, frequently using toggle-like regulatory components. Synthetic biologists have long sought to recapitulate patterned differentiation with engineered cellular communities, and various methods for differentiating bacteria have been invented. Here, we couple a synthetic corepressive toggle switch with intercellular signaling pathways to create a "quorum-sensing toggle". We show that this circuit not only exhibits population-wide bistability in a well-mixed liquid environment but also generates patterns of differentiation in colonies grown on agar containing an externally supplied morphogen. If coupled to other metabolic processes, circuits such as the one described here would allow for the engineering of spatially patterned, differentiated bacteria for use in biomaterials and bioelectronics.

GP-Marker facilitates the analysis of intact glycopeptide quantitative data at different levels.

Protein glycosylation is a highly heterogeneous post-translational modification that has been demonstrated to exhibit significant variations in various diseases. Due to the differential patterns observed in disease and healthy populations, the glycosylated proteins hold promise as early indicators for multiple diseases. With the continuous development of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technology and spectrum analysis software, the sensitivity for the decipher of the tandem mass spectra of the glycopeptides carrying intact glycans, i.e., intact glycopeptides, enzymatic hydrolyzed from glycoproteins has been significantly improved. From quantified intact glycopeptides, the difference of protein glycosylation at multiple levels, e.g., glycoprotein, glycan, glycosite, and site-specific glycans, could be obtained for different samples. However, the manual analysis of the intact glycopeptide quantitative data at multiple levels is tedious and time consuming. In this study, we have developed a software tool named "GP-Marker" to facilitate large-scale data mining of spectra dataset of intact N-glycopeptide at multiple levels. This software provides a user-friendly and interactive interface, offering operational tools for machine learning to researchers without programming backgrounds. It includes a range of visualization plots displaying differential glycosylation and provides the ability to extract multi-level data analysis from intact glycopeptide data quantified by Glyco-Decipher.

The lasting impact of virtual interviews on surgical fellowship applicants

PurposeSurgical fellowship interviews shifted to a virtual platform in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While virtual interviews provide convenience, they also pose difficulties for programs and raise potential barriers for applicants. This study compares in-person to virtual interviews and characterizes the impact on programs and applicants.MethodsIn-person (2007–2019) and virtual (2020–2022) fellowship application data were extracted from publicly available NRMP Specialties Matching Service data. Fellowship programs included surgical critical care, surgical oncology, colorectal, pediatric, thoracic, and vascular surgery. Competitiveness was assessed using a validated normalized competitiveness index (NCI).ResultsSince virtual interviews, rankings per applicant, a surrogate for program interview workload, increased for all fellowships except pediatric surgery. The most competitive subspecialties now include colorectal, pediatric, and thoracic surgery. For non-US MDs in these subspecialties, applicants per position decreased (pediatric), match rate decreased (thoracic), and NCI increased (thoracic) under virtual interviewing. However, for the least competitive subspecialties, non-US MDs had increased rankings per applicant (critical care and vascular), increased match rate (critical care and surgical oncology), and decreased NCI (surgical oncology) with virtual interviewing.ConclusionsSince the virtual platform was implemented, applicants have interviewed at and ranked more programs, subsequently increasing program workload. While this is positive for many applicants, a differential pattern of securing a fellowship emerged for non-US MD applicants. This finding is important for fellowship program directors to consider and ensure non-US MD applicants are not marginalized with the virtual platform.Level of EvidenceIII

Physiological roles of Arabidopsis MCA1 and MCA2 based on their dynamic expression patterns

Determining the mechanisms by which plants sense and respond to mechanical stimuli is crucial for unraveling the detailed processes by which plants grow and develop. Mechanosensitive (MS) channels, including MCA1 and its paralog MCA2 in Arabidopsis thaliana, may be essential for these processes. Although significant progress has been made in elucidating the physiological roles of MS channels, comprehensive insights into their expression dynamics remain elusive. Here, we summarize recent advancements and new data on the spatiotemporal expression patterns of the MCA1 and MCA2 genes, revealing their involvement in various developmental processes. Then, we describe findings from our study, in which the expression profiles of MCA1 and MCA2 were characterized in different plant organs at various developmental stages through histochemical analyses and semiquantitative RT‒PCR. Our findings revealed that MCA1 and MCA2 are preferentially expressed in young tissues, suggesting their pivotal roles in processes such as cell division, expansion, and mechanosensing. Lastly, we discuss the differential expression patterns observed in reproductive organs and trichomes, hinting at their specialized functions in response to mechanical cues. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the dynamic expression patterns of MCA1 and MCA2, paving the way for future research on the precise roles of these genes in planta.

What determines the synergy among urban systems? Evidences from the Yangtze River economic belt over 20 years

China's urbanization has reshaped landscapes, economies, and societies nationwide at unprecedented paces, yet inconsistent march among these processes has resulted in insufficient and unbalanced urban development. Here, we constructed a Population-Land-Economic-Social urbanization (PLESU) system with multiple elements and interaction flows, and explored the spatiotemporal dynamics and influencing factors of the coupling coordination degree (CCD) among PLESU system in 110 prefectural-level cities of Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) from 2000 to 2020. Results indicated that the CCD evolution exhibited significant path dependence during the past two decades, with considerable room for improvement. A key finding was that the low-quality development of land urbanization and social urbanization subsystems was the main factor for the lack of synergy among PLESU system, with land finance dependence and municipal investment confirmed to have significant impact on this. Furthermore, results also highlighted narrowing inter-regional differences in the CCD among downstream, midstream and upstream, revealing clustering of CCD in urban agglomerations, yet differing in their internal differentiation patterns and drivers. Exploring the synergy among urban systems will raise policymakers’ awareness of the necessity for embracing a holistic approach toward better sustainability by considering the insufficient and unbalanced nature of urbanization.

Muscle growth differences in Lijiang pigs revealed by ATAC-seq multi-omics.

As one of the largest tissues in the animal body, skeletal muscle plays a pivotal role in the production and quality of pork. Consequently, it is of paramount importance to investigate the growth and developmental processes of skeletal muscle. Lijiang pigs, which naturally have two subtypes, fast-growing and slow-growing, provide an ideal model for such studies by eliminating breed-related influences. In this study, we selected three fast-growing and three slow-growing 6-month-old Lijiang pigs as subjects. We utilized assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) combined with genomics, RNA sequencing, and proteomics to screen for differentially expressed genes and transcription factors linked to increased longissimus dorsi muscle volume in Lijiang pigs. We identified 126 genes through ATAC-seq, including PPARA, TNRC6B, NEDD1, and FKBP5, that exhibited differential expression patterns during muscle growth. Additionally, we identified 59 transcription factors, including Foxh1, JunB, Mef2 family members (Mef2a/b/c/d), NeuroD1, and TEAD4. By examining open chromatin regions (OCRs) with significant genetic differentiation, genes such as SAV1, CACNA1H, PRKCG, and FGFR4 were found. Integrating ATAC-seq with transcriptomics and transcriptomics with proteomics, we identified differences in open chromatin regions, transcription, and protein levels of FKBP5 and SCARB2 genes in fast-growing and slow-growing Lijiang pigs. Utilizing multi-omics analysis with R packages, we jointed ATAC-seq, transcriptome, and proteome datasets, identifying enriched pathways related to glycogen metabolism and skeletal muscle cell differentiation. We pinpointed genes such as MYF6 and HABP2 that exhibit strong correlations across these diverse data types. This study provides a multi-faceted understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to differences in pig muscle fiber growth.

Assessing peri-implant bacterial community structure: the effect of microbiome sample collection method

BackgroundOral microbiota comprises polymicrobial communities shaped by mutualistic coevolution with the host, contributing to homeostasis and regulating immune function. Nevertheless, dysbiosis of oral bacterial communities is associated with a number of clinical symptoms that ranges from infections to oral cancer. Peri-implant diseases are biofilm-associated inflammatory conditions affecting the soft and hard tissues around dental implants. Characterization and identification of the biofilm community are essential for the understanding of the pathophysiology of such diseases. For that sampling methods should be representative of the biofilm communities Therefore, there is a need to know the effect of different sampling strategies on the biofilm characterization by next generation sequencing.MethodsWith the aim of selecting an appropriate microbiome sampling procedure for periimplant biofilms, next generation sequencing was used for characterizing the bacterial communities obtained by three different sampling strategies two months after transepithelial abutment placement: adjacent periodontal crevicular fluid (ToCF), crevicular fluid from transepithelial abutment (TACF) and transepithelial abutment (TA).ResultsSignificant differences in multiple alpha diversity indices were detected at both the OTU and the genus level between different sampling procedures. Differentially abundant taxa were detected between sample collection strategies, including peri-implant health and disease related taxa. At the community level significant differences were also detected between TACF and TA and also between TA and ToCF. Moreover, differential network properties and association patterns were identified.ConclusionsThe selection of sample collection strategy can significantly affect the community composition and structure.Trial registrationThis research is part of a randomized clinical trial that was designed to assess the effect of transepithelial abutment surface on the biofilm formation. The trial was registered at Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT03554876.

Analysis of Spatial Divergence in Bird Diversity Driven by Built Environment Characteristics of Ecological Corridors in High-Density Urban Areas

Urban ecological corridors play an important role in facilitating bird migration and maintaining biodiversity in urban landscapes as key connections between habitat patches. However, the effects of built environment characteristics of urban ecological corridors on bird diversity have not been well understood. In this study, we used Minhang District, Shanghai, as an example to describe the built environment of urban ecological corridors through three dimensions (habitat characteristics, degree of surrounding urbanization, and degree of slow-traffic connectivity). We calculated species richness, abundance, Shannon–Wiener index, and Simpson Index to assess bird diversity based on the bird observation dataset from the Citizen Science Data Sharing Platform. The effects of built environment characteristics of urban ecological corridors on bird diversity were quantified by the Generalized Linear Model. The results showed that: (1) There were significant differences in the built environment characteristics of urban ecological corridors, which formed the spatial differentiation pattern of bird diversity. (2) Different built environment features of urban ecological corridors have different impacts on bird diversity. Habitat suitability of urban ecological corridors was positively correlated with bird diversity, with birds preferring to inhabit waters with an area of more than 1 ha. The degree of urbanization was negatively correlated with bird diversity, with distance to the center of the area proving to have the strongest positive effect. The degree of slow-traffic connectivity proved that low-intensity human activities in urban ecological corridors had a lower impact on bird diversity. The above findings can provide scientific reference for the construction of urban and regional ecological networks in the future.

Spatial spillover effect and driving factors of urban carbon emissions in the Yellow River Basin using nighttime light data

Yellow River Basin (YRB) is a pivotal region for energy consumption and carbon emissions (CEs) in China, with cities emerging as the main sources of regional CEs. This highlights their critical role in achieving regional sustainable development and China’s carbon neutrality. Consequently, there is a pressing need for a detailed exploration of the urban spillover effects and an in-depth analysis of the complex determinants influencing CEs within the YRB. Remote sensing data provide optimal conditions for conducting extensive studies across large geographical areas and extended time periods. This study integrates DMSP/OLS and NPP/VIIRS nighttime light datasets for a longitudinal analysis of urban CEs in the YRB. Using a harmonized dataset from DMSP/OLS and NPP/VIIRS nighttime light from 2007 to 2021, this study quantifies CEs of 58 prefecture-level cities in the YRB. By combining ESDA, STIRPAT model and spatial econometric model, this investigation further clarifies empirically the spatial spillover effects and driving factors of urban CEs. The analysis delineates a phase-wise augmentation in urban CEs, converging towards a distinct spatial distribution characterized by “lower reach > middle reach > upper reach”. The spatial autocorrelation tests unravel a complex interplay between agglomeration and differentiation patterns within urban CEs, underscored by pronounced spatial lock-in phenomena. Significantly, this study demonstrates that urbanization, economic development, energy consumption structure, green coverage rate, industrial structure, population, technological progress, and FDI each exhibit varied direct and indirect effect on urban CEs. Furthermore, it elaborates on potential policy implications and future research directions, offering crucial insights for formulating CEs mitigation strategies to advance sustainable development.

Attributing spatially stratified heterogeneity in biodiversity of urban–rural interlaced zones based on the OPGD model

Urban–rural interlaced zones are characterized by the interpenetration of urban and rural elements, drastic changes in construction, relatively weak planning and management, and anthropogenic activities that constantly impact the ecological background. However, the ecological barriers and hinterland spaces of the city center provide important ecological functions. In this study, we selected forest birds as indicator species of the urban ecological environment and explored the spatial stratification and heterogeneity effects of environmental substrates and anthropogenic activities on bird diversity (species richness, abundance, Shannon–Wiener index, and Simpson index) in urban–rural interlaced zones using the optimal parameter geographic detector model to characterize the changes in ecological functions in these zones. The results of this study are as follows:(1) The bird diversity index in Minhang District, Shanghai, showed an obvious urban-rural gradient divergence with the transition of urban zone- rural-urban interface - rural zone.An agglomerative spatial differentiation pattern was observed more in the southeast but less in the northwest, with a high degree of spatial distribution concentrations and evident imbalance characteristics.(2) The spatially stratified heterogeneity in bird diversity in urban–rural interlaced zones was because of the combined action of multiple driving factors under the three dimensions of habitat environment, degree of urbanization, and anthropogenic interference. Most of the interactions between any two factors showed non-linear or bifactorial enhancement effects. Furthermore, the one-factor explanatory power of urbanization and anthropogenic interference factors on bird diversity was significantly higher than that of the habitat environment factor.(3) Population heat distribution (PD), distance to the center of Shanghai (DC), and nighttime lighting index(NTL) were the main drivers of spatially stratified heterogeneity in bird diversity and the key indicators of urban–rural gradient changes. The interaction between PD and DC had the strongest explanatory power for the spatial differentiation of bird diversity.

Housing status is protective of neuropsychiatric symptoms among dementia-free multi-ethnic Asian elderly

BackgroundHousing has been associated with dementia risk and disability, but associations of housing with differential patterns of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) among dementia-free older adults remain to be explored. The present study sought to explore the contribution of housing status on NPS and subsyndromes associated with cognitive dysfunction in community-dwelling dementia-free elderly in Singapore.MethodsA total of 839 dementia-free elderly from the Epidemiology of Dementia in Singapore (EDIS) study aged ≥ 60 were enrolled in the current study. All participants underwent clinical, cognitive, and neuropsychiatric inventory (NPI) assessments. The housing status was divided into three categories according to housing type. Cognitive function was measured by a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. The NPS were assessed using 12-term NPI and were grouped into four clinical subsyndromes: psychosis, hyperactivity, affective, and apathy. Associations of housing with composite and domain-specific Z-scores, as well as NPI scores, were assessed using generalized linear models (GLM). Binary logistic regression models analysed the association of housing with the presence of NPS and significant NPS (NPI total scores ≥ 4).ResultsBetter housing status (5-room executive apartments, condominium, or private housing) was associated with better NPS (OR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.24 to 0.98, P < 0.05) and significant NPS profile (OR = 0.20, 95%CI = 0.08 to 0.46, P < 0.01), after controlling for demographics, risk factors, and cognitive performance. Compared with those living in 1–2 room apartments, older adults in better housing had lower total NPI scores (β=-0.50, 95%CI=-0.95 to -0.04, P = 0.032) and lower psychosis scores (β=-0.36, 95%CI=-0.66 to -0.05, P = 0.025), after controlling for socioeconomic status (SES) indexes. Subgroup analysis indicated a significant correlation between housing type and NPS in females, those of Malay ethnicity, the more educated, those with lower income, and those diagnosed with cognitive impairment, no dementia (CIND).ConclusionsOur study showed a protective effect of better housing arrangements on NPS, especially psychosis in a multi-ethnic Asian geriatric population without dementia. The protective effect of housing on NPS was independent of SES and might have other pathogenic mechanisms. Improving housing could be an effective way to prevent neuropsychiatric disturbance among the elderly.

Distinctive features associated with differentiation syndrome in acute promyelocytic leukemia in patients treated by all-trans retinoic acid and arsenic trioxide

In acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), the combination treatment of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) appears to have a synergistic effect. Due to this synergism, differentiation syndrome (DS) in APL assumes a distinct identity separate from the formerly known ATRA syndrome, with distinct temporal patterns, diagnostic parameters, and clinical behavior. We retrospectively evaluated single-center data of years 2013–2022. Patients with newly diagnosed APL were categorized into three groups (16 patients in ATRA/ATO standard-risk group, 3 patients in ATRA/chemotherapy standard-risk group, and 5 patients in ATRA/chemotherapy high-risk group). Our aim was to analyze leukocytosis, signs of DS, and hepatic impairment within the first 25 days of treatment. The incidence of DS in the ATRA/ATO SR group was 43.8 %, with a median of 4 days and 2 days from ATRA and ATO initiation, respectively. This group also exhibited higher peak levels of leukocytosis 34.5 (6.0–113.4) x109/L (p = 0.0809). ALT elevation was more prevalent in the ATRA/ATO SR group (93.75 %), with 68.75 % grade 3–4 elevations (p = 0.0094). Importantly, all patients in this group had ALT levels that returned to normal during the subsequent consolidations. These findings suggest hepatopathy as a potential manifestation of ATRA/ATO induced leukocyte differentiation and/or DS. Diverse differentiation patterns were identified within the ATRA/ATO group, classifying patients into three distinct subgroups based on the concurrent dynamics of leukocytes and ALT levels, illustrating simultaneous, sequential, and divergent elevation patterns. These emphasize the different distribution of differentiation (organs vs. peripheral blood). We introduced real-world data and advocated for reevaluation of the current DS definition and associated diagnostic thresholds. Our study, conducted in a small country with a limited number of APL patients, acknowledges the inherent constraints in sample size. Further investigations with larger patient cohorts are warranted to validate and reinforce the outcomes observed in our study.