Impact of typhoons on anthropogenic nitrogen sources in Lake Sihwa, South Korea.

This study investigated the nitrate dual isotopic compositions (δ15NNO3 and δ18ONO3) of water samples to trace nitrate sources in Lake Sihwa, which encompasses various land-use types (e.g., urban, industry, wetland, and agriculture). The biogeochemical interactions of anthropogenic nitrogen sources (e.g., soil, road dust, and septic water) were also evaluated through multiple pathways from terrestrial boundaries to the water column. Based on increased concentrations of dissolved total nitrogen (DTN; 3.1 ± 1.6 mg/L) after typhoon, the variation of element stoichiometry (N:P:Si) in this system shifted to the relatively N-rich conditions (DIN/DIP; 14.1 ± 8.1, DIN/DSi; 1.4 ± 1.8), potentially triggering the occurrence of harmful algal blooms. Furthermore, discriminative isotopic compositions (δ15NNO3; 4.0 ± 2.1 ‰, δ18ONO3; 6.1 ± 4.3 ‰) after the typhoon suggested the increased DTN input of anthropogenic origins within Lake Sihwa would be mainly transported from urban sources (76 ± 9 %). Consequently, the isotopic-based approach may be useful for effective water quality management under increased anthropogenic activities near aquatic systems.

Genome analysis of Streptococcus spp. isolates from animals in pre-antibiotic era with respect to antibiotic susceptibility and virulence gene profiles.

Lyophilized Streptococcus spp. isolates (n = 50) from animal samples submitted to the diagnostic laboratory at the University of Connecticut in the 1940s were revivified to investigate the genetic characteristics using whole-genome sequencing (WGS). The Streptococcus spp. isolates were identified as follows; S. agalactiae (n = 14), S. dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae (n = 10), S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimils (n = 5), S. uberis (n = 8), S. pyogenes (n = 7), S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus (n = 4), S. oralis (n = 1), and S. pseudoporcinus (n = 1). We identified sequence types (ST) of S. agalactiae, S. dysgalactiae, S. uberis, S. pyogenes, and S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus and reported ten novel sequence types of those species. WGS analysis revealed that none of Streptococcus spp. carried antibiotic resistance genes. However, tetracycline resistance was observed in four out of 15 S. dysgalactiae isolates and in one out of four S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus isolate. This data highlights that antimicrobial resistance is pre-existed in nature before the use of antibiotics. The draft genome sequences of isolates from this study and 426 complete genome sequences of Streptococcus spp. downloaded from BV-BRC and NCBI GenBank database were analyzed for virulence gene profiles and phylogenetic relationships. Different Streptococcus species demonstrated distinct virulence gene profiles, with no time-related variations observed. Phylogenetic analysis revealed high genetic diversity of Streptococcus spp. isolates from the 1940s, and no clear spatio-temporal clustering patterns were observed among Streptococcus spp. analyzed in this study. This study provides an invaluable resource for studying the evolutionary aspects of antibiotic resistance acquisition and virulence in Streptococcus spp.

Caught Right on the Spot: Isolation and Characterization of Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N8 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus from a Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) Being Attacked by a Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus).

We isolated a high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) virus from a common pochard (Aythya ferina) that was being attacked by a bird of prey in South Korea in December 2020. Genetic analyses indicated that the isolate was closely related to the clade 2.3.4.4b H5N8 HPAI viruses found in South Korea and Japan during the winter season of 2020-2021. The histopathological examination revealed multifocal necrotizing inflammation in the liver, kidney, and spleen. Viral antigens were detected in the liver, kidney, spleen, trachea, intestine, and pancreas, indicating the HPAI virus caused a systemic infection. The presence of immunoreactivity for the viral antigen was observed in the cells involved in multifocal necrotic inflammation. Notably, epitheliotropic-positive patterns were identified in the epithelial cells of the trachea, mucosal epithelium of the intestine, and ductular epithelium of the pancreas. These findings provide direct evidence supporting the possibility of HPAI transmission from infected waterfowl to predators.

Detectado en el acto: Aislamiento y caracterización de un virus de la influenza aviar de alta patogenicidad del clado 2.3.4.4b H5N8 de un porrón común (Aythya ferina) atacado por un halcón peregrino (Falco peregrinus). Se aisló un virus de la influenza aviar (HPAI) de alta patogenicidad de un porrón común (Aythya ferina) que estaba siendo atacado por un ave rapaz en Corea del Sur en diciembre de 2020. Los análisis genéticos indicaron que el aislado estaba estrechamente relacionado con virus de influenza aviar de alta patogenicidad H5N8, clado 2.3.4.4 b encontrados en Corea del Sur y Japón durante la temporada de invierno de 2020­2021. El examen histopatológico reveló inflamación necrotizante multifocal en hígado, riñón y bazo. Se detectaron antígenos virales en el hígado, el riñón, el bazo, la tráquea, el intestino y el páncreas, lo que indica que este virus de alta patogenicidad causó una infección sistémica. Se observó la presencia de inmunorreactividad para el antígeno viral en las células involucradas en la inflamación necrótica multifocal. En particular, se identificaron patrones epiteliotrópicos positivos en las células epiteliales de la tráquea, el epitelio mucoso del intestino y el epitelio ductular del páncreas. Estos hallazgos proporcionan evidencia directa que respalda la posibilidad de transmisión de HPAI de aves acuáticas infectadas a especies depredadoras.

Antiviral activity of adenoviral vector expressing human interferon lambda-4 against influenza virus.

Interferon lambda (IFNλ), classified as a type III IFN, is a representative cytokine that plays an important role in innate immunity along with type I IFN. IFNλ can elicit antiviral states by inducing peculiar sets of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). In this study, an adenoviral vector expression system with a tetracycline operator system was used to express human IFNλ4 in cells and mice. The formation of recombinant adenovirus (rAd-huIFNλ4) was confirmed using immunohistochemistry assays and transmission electron microscopy. Its purity was verified by quantifying host cell DNA and host cell proteins, as well as by confirming the absence of the replication-competent adenovirus. The transduction of rAd-huIFNλ4 induced ISGs and inhibited four subtypes of the influenza virus in both mouse-derived (LA-4) and human-derived cells (A549). The antiviral state was confirmed in BALB/c mice following intranasal inoculation with 109 PFU of rAd-huIFNλ4, which led to the inhibition of four subtypes of the influenza virus in mouse lungs, with reduced inflammatory lesions. These results imply that human IFNλ4 could induce antiviral status by modulating ISG expression in mice.

Factors influencing the quality of life in children with atopic dermatitis in Korea: A multicenter cross-sectional study.

Background: There is a lack of studies about which factors affect the quality of life (QoL) in children with atopic dermatitis (AD), although it is well known that AD has considerably negative effects on their QoL. Objective: This study aimed to measure the QoL in children with AD and identify the factors that affect their QoL. Methods: A questionnaire derived from the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) was used to measure QoL. Family history, allergic comorbidities, exacerbation-related factors, time of exacerbation, and previous and current treatment were also evaluated. The total immunoglobulin E (IgE) level and specific IgE sensitization were determined by the multiple allergen simultaneous test, allergy test, or skin-prick test. AD severity was categorized into mild, moderate, and severe based on treatments. Results: In total, 254 children (46.4 months, 53% boys) from seven hospitals completed the survey. The mean CDLQI score was 7.2 ± 5.5 (total score range of 0-30). The respondents were divided into three groups according to their QoL score distribution, with 0 - 4 points (n = 84), 5 - 9 points (n = 90), and ≥10 points (n = 80) representing good, fair, and poor QoL, respectively. The more severe AD showed the higher CDLQI score significantly (p = 0.001). Compared with other groups, children with poor QoL were more sensitized to inhalant allergens (odds ratio [OR] 1.29 [95% confidence interval {CI}], 1.03 - 1.62) and had more exacerbating factors (OR 1.26 [95% CI, 1.04 - 1.54]), which included inhalation allergen-related exacerbating factors (OR 2.54 [95% CI, 1.23 - 5.23), even after adjusting for age, total IgE, body mass index, severity, and use of moisturizer. The concordance between animal sensitization and an exacerbating factor, including dog and cat, was fair, with 0.39 κ and 0.85 accuracy. Conclusion: This study showed that impaired QoL in children with AD is associated with inhalant allergen sensitization and inhalant allergen-related exacerbation factors. Especially, dog and cat sensitization was a significant exacerbating factor. The inhalation-related exacerbation factors, including animal allergens, might be addressed to improve AD management in children.

Correction: Virus-Like Nanoparticle Vaccine Confers Protection against Toxoplasma gondii.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161231.].

HSP47 Increases the Expression of Type I Collagen in Fibroblasts through IRE1α Activation, XBP1 Splicing, and Nuclear Translocation of ß-Catenin.

Heat shock protein 47 (HSP47), also known as SERPINH1, functions as a collagen-specific molecular chaperone protein essential for the formation and stabilization of the collagen triple helix. Here, we delved into the regulatory pathways governed by HSP47, shedding light on collagen homeostasis. Our investigation revealed a significant reduction in HSP47 mRNA levels in the skin tissue of older mice as compared to their younger counterparts. The augmented expression of HSP47 employing lentivirus infection in fibroblasts resulted in an increased secretion of type I collagen. Intriguingly, the elevated expression of HSP47 in fibroblasts correlated with increased protein and mRNA levels of type I collagen. The exposure of fibroblasts to IRE1α RNase inhibitors resulted in the reduced manifestation of HSP47-induced type I collagen secretion and expression. Notably, HSP47-overexpressing fibroblasts exhibited increased XBP1 mRNA splicing. The overexpression of HSP47 or spliced XBP1 facilitated the nuclear translocation of ß-catenin and transactivated a reporter harboring TCF binding sites on the promoter. Furthermore, the overexpression of HSP47 or spliced XBP1 or the augmentation of nuclear ß-catenin through Wnt3a induced the expression of type I collagen. Our findings substantiate that HSP47 enhances type I collagen expression and secretion in fibroblasts by orchestrating a mechanism that involves an increase in nuclear ß-catenin through IRE1α activation and XBP1 splicing. This study therefore presents potential avenues for an anti-skin-aging strategy targeting HSP47-mediated processes.

High-Volume Hospital Had Lower Mortality of Severe Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients.

Objective: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) accompanies higher mortality rates than other type of stroke. This study aimed to investigate the association between hospital volume and mortality for cases of ICH. Methods: We used nationwide data from 2013 to 2018 to compare high-volume hospitals (≥32 admissions/year) and low-volume hospitals (<32 admissions/year). We tracked patients' survival at 3-month, 1-year, 2-year, and 4-year endpoints. The survival of ICH patients was analyzed at 3-month, 1-year, 2-year, and 4-year endpoints using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and Cox regression analysis were performed to determine predictive factors of poor outcomes at discharge and death. Results: Among 9,086 ICH patients who admitted to hospital during 18-month period, 6,756 (74.4%) and 2,330 (25.6%) patients were admitted to high-volume and low-volume hospitals. The mortality of total ICH patients was 18.25%, 23.87%, 27.88%, and 35.74% at the 3-month, 1-year, 2-year, and 4-year, respectively. In multivariate logistic analysis, high-volume hospitals had lower poor functional outcome at discharge than low-volume hospitals (odds ratio, 0.80; 95% confidence interval, 0.72-0.91; p < 0.001). In the Cox analysis, high-volume hospitals had significantly lower 3-month, 1-year, 2-year, and 4-year mortality than low-volume hospitals (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The poor outcome at discharge, short- and long-term mortality in ICH patients differed according to hospital volume. High-volume hospitals showed lower rates of mortality for ICH patients, particularly those with severe clinical status.

Role of the National Early Warning score and Modified Early Warning score for predicting mortality in geriatric patients with non-traumatic coma.

Geriatric patients arriving in a non-traumatic coma (NTC) at the emergency department (ED) present substantial risks and necessitate prompt and appropriate care. The National Early Warning Score (NEWS) is a promising tool that can efficiently evaluate this vulnerable population. Current study was designed to assess the effectiveness of the NEWS for predicting the severity of illness in geriatric patients with NTC and identifying those at highest risk. Current study was performed involving geriatric patients (aged ≥65 years) with NTC who visited Chonnam National University Hospital between January and December 2022. NEWS and Modified Early Warning Scores (MEWS) were calculated at ED visits. The association of NEWS and MEWS for in-hospital death was evaluated by multivariable analysis. Out of 683 patients, 202 were non-survivors (29.6%). The NEWS and MEWS values of non-survivors were higher than those of survivors (NEWS, 7 [5-10] vs. 10 [8-12]; MEWS, 5 [4-6] vs. 7 [5-8]). The NEWS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]; 1.253, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.181-1.329) and MEWS (aOR; 1.323, 95% CI: 1.206-1.451) were also significantly associated with in-hospital death. The area under the curve for the NEWS and MEWS was 0.721 (95% CI: 0.685-0.754) and 0.695 (95% CI: 0.659-0.730), respectively. The NEWS can be an effective tool for predicting severity of illness via in-hospital death in geriatric patients with NTC.

Genomic epidemiology of highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) virus in wild birds in South Korea during 2021-2022: Changes in viral epidemic patterns.

Clade 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic avian influenza A (HPAI) viruses have been detected in wild birds worldwide, causing recurrent outbreaks since 2016. During the winter of 2021-2022, we detected one H5N8 and forty-three H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b HPAI viruses from wild birds in South Korea. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that HA gene of H5N1 viruses was divided into two genetically distinct groups (N1.G1 and N1.G2). Bayesian phylodynamic analysis demonstrated that wild birds play a vital role in viral transmission and long-term maintenance. We identified five genotypes (N1.G1.1, N1.G2, N1.G2.1, N1.G2.2, and N1.G2.2.1) having distinct gene segment constellations most probably produced by reassortments with low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses. Our results suggest that clade 2.3.4.4b persists in wild birds for a long time, causing continuous outbreaks, compared with previous clades of H5 HPAI viruses. Our study emphasizes the need for enhancing control measures in response to the changing viral epidemiology.

Cisplatin Induces Kidney Cell Death via ROS-dependent MAPK Signaling Pathways by Targeting Peroxiredoxin I and II in African Green Monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus) Kidney Cells.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Cisplatin [cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II), CDDP] is a widely used and effective antitumor drug in clinical settings, notorious for its nephrotoxic side effects. This study investigated the mechanisms of CDDP-induced damage in African green monkey kidney (Vero) cells, with a focus on the role of Peroxiredoxin I (Prx I) and Peroxiredoxin II (Prx II) of the peroxiredoxin (Prx) family, which scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We utilized the Vero cell line derived from African green monkey kidneys and exposed these cells to various concentrations of CDDP. Cell viability, apoptosis, ROS levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential were assessed. RESULTS: CDDP significantly compromised Vero cell viability by elevating both cellular and mitochondrial ROS, which led to increased apoptosis. Pretreatment with the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) effectively reduced CDDP-induced ROS accumulation and subsequent cell apoptosis. Furthermore, CDDP reduced Prx I and Prx II levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The inhibition of Prx I and II exacerbated cell death, implicating their role in CDDP-induced accumulation of cellular ROS. Additionally, CDDP enhanced the phosphorylation of MAPKs (p38, ERK, and JNK) without affecting AKT. The inhibition of these pathways significantly attenuated CDDP-induced apoptosis. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the involvement of Prx proteins in CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity and emphasizes the central role of ROS in cell death mediation. These insights offer promising avenues for developing clinical interventions to mitigate the nephrotoxic effects of CDDP.

Detection of multiple recombinations of avian coronavirus in South Korea by whole-genome analysis.

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), an avian coronavirus, has caused considerable damage to the poultry industry. In Korea, indigenous KM91-like and newly introduced QX-like lineages belonging to the GI-19 lineage have been prevalent despite constant vaccination. In this study, complete genome sequences of 23 IBV isolates in Korea from 2010 to 2020 were obtained using next-generation sequencing, and their phylogenetic relationship and recombination events were analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis based on the S1 gene showed that all isolates belonged to the GI-19 lineage and were divided into five subgroups (KM91-like, K40/09-like, and QX-like II to IV). Among the 23 isolates, 14 recombinants were found, including frequent recombination between KM91-like and QX-like strains. In addition, it was observed that other lineages, such as GI-1, GI-13, and GI-16, were involved in recombination. Most recombination breakpoints were detected in the ORF1ab gene, particularly nsp3. However, when considering the size of each genome, recombination occurred more frequently in the 3a, E and 5a genes. Taken together, genetic recombination frequently occurred throughout the entire genome between various IBV strains in Korea, including live attenuated vaccine strain. Our study suggests the necessity of further research on the contribution of recombination of genomes outside the spike region to the biological characteristics of IBV.

Genome sequences of haemagglutinin cleavage site predict the pathogenicity phenotype of avian influenza virus: statistically validated data for facilitating rapid declarations and reducing reliance on in vivo testing.

ABSTRACTBased on the pathogenicity in chickens, most H1-H16 avian influenza viruses (AIV) cause mild diseases, whereas some of the H5 and H7 AI viruses cause severe, systemic disease. The number of basic amino acids in the haemagglutinin (HA) cleavage site of AIV plays a critical role in pathogenicity. As we gain a greater understanding of the molecular mechanisms of pathogenicity, genome sequencing of the HA0 cleavage site has assumed a greater role in assessment of the potential pathogenicity of H5 and H7 viruses. We validated the use of HA cleavage site motif analysis by comparing molecular pathotyping data against experimental in vivo (intravenous pathogenicity index [IVPI] and lethality) data for determination of both low pathogenicity and high pathogenicity AI virus declaration with the goal of expediting pathotype confirmation and further reducing the reliance on in vivo testing. Our data provide statistical support to the continued use of molecular determination of pathotype for AI viruses based on the HA cleavage site sequence in the absence of an in vivo study determination. This approach not only expedites the declaration process of highly pathogenic AIV (HPAIV) but also reduces the need for experimental in vivo testing of H5 and H7 viruses.

Isolation and whole genome sequencing of North American lineage class I avian orthoavulavirus 1 isolated from wild Eurasian teal in South Korea.

We report the first North American origin class I avian orthoavulavirus 1 (AOAV-1) isolated from a faecal dropping of wild Eurasian teal (Anas crecca) in South Korea. Whole genome sequencing and comparative phylogenetic analysis revealed that the AOAV-1/Eurasian teal/South Korea/KU1405-3/2017 virus belongs to the sub-genotype 1.2 of class I AOAV-1. Phylogenetic analysis suggested multiple introductions of the North American sub-genotype 1.2 viruses into Asia and its establishment in the wild bird population in East Asia since May 2011. These results provide information on the epidemiology of AOAV-1, particularly the role of migratory wild birds in exchanging viruses between the Eurasian and North American continents. Enhanced genomic surveillance is required to improve our understanding on the evolution and transmission dynamics of AOAV-1 in wild birds.

Incursion of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Clade 2.3.4.4b Virus, Brazil, 2023.

We report 4 highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4.b viruses in samples collected during June 2023 from Royal terns and Cabot's terns in Brazil. Phylodynamic analysis revealed viral movement from Peru to Brazil, indicating a concerning spread of this clade along the Atlantic Americas migratory bird flyway.

Emotion regulation from a virtue perspective.

BACKGROUND: The ability to regulate one's emotional state is an important predictor of several behaviors such as reframing a challenging situation to reduce anger or anxiety, concealing visible signs of sadness or fear, or focusing on reasons to feel happy or calm. This capacity is referred to as emotion regulation. Deficits in this ability can adversely affect one's adaptive coping, thus are associated with a variety of other psychopathological symptoms, including but not limited to depression, borderline personality disorder, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and somatoform disorders. METHODS: The present study examined emotion regulation in relation to the virtue-based psychosocial adaptation model (V-PAM). 595 participants were clustered based on their Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) score, producing two clusters (i.e., high functioning vs. low functioning). Then, emotion regulation group membership was discriminated by using five V-PAM virtue constructs, including courage, integrity, practical wisdom, committed action, and emotional transcendence. RESULTS: Results show that five virtues contribute to differentiating group membership. Practical wisdom was the strongest contributor, followed by integrity, emotional transcendence, committed action, and courage. Predictive discriminant analysis was conducted and 71% of cases were correctly classified. A discussion of the relationship between emotion regulation and virtues was elaborated. CONCLUSION: The concept of virtue holds significant importance in the comprehension of an individual's capacity to regulate their emotions, meriting future study.

Differing Expression and Potential Immunological Role of C-Type Lectin Receptors of Two Different Chicken Breeds against Low Pathogenic H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus.

Diverse immune responses in different chicken lines can result in varying clinical consequences following avian influenza virus (AIV) infection. We compared two widely used layer breeds, Lohmann Brown (LB) and Lohmann White (LW), to examine virus replication and immune responses against H9N2 AIV infection. The transcription profile in the spleen of H9N2-infected chickens was compared using a microarray. Confirmatory real-time RT-PCR was used to measure the expression of C-type lectin, OASL, and MX1 genes. Additionally, to investigate the role of chicken lectin receptors in vitro, two C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) were expressed in DF-1 cells, and the early growth of the H9N2 virus was evaluated. The LB chickens shed a lower amount of virus from the cloaca compared with the LW chickens. Different expression levels of C-type lectin-like genes were observed in the transcription profile, with no significant differences in OASL or MX gene expression. Real-time RT-PCR indicated a sharp decrease in C-type lectin levels in the spleen of H9N2-infected LW chickens. In vitro studies demonstrated that cells overexpressing CLR exhibited lower virus replication, while silencing of homeostatic CLR had no effect on AIV replication. This study demonstrated distinct immune responses to H9N2 avian influenza in LB and LW chickens, particularly with differences in C-type lectin expression, potentially leading to lower virus shedding in LB chickens.