bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untangling the Genetic Control of Maize Plant Aarchitecture Plasticity
Authors: Incognito Salvador Juan Pablo , Maddonni Gustavo , López César Gabriel
Published: March 2022

Phenotypic plasticity (PP) is the ability of an organism to produce multiple phenotypes in response to environmental changes. In cultivated species, such as maize (Zea mays L.), the PP of plant architecture traits will play an important role in the adaptation of genotypes to unpredictable scenarios given by climate change, marginal areas, and seeding with variable plant density (D). We bring information to improve the understanding of the environmental modulation of PPs of plant architecture traits of maize, untangling their genetic bases, and testing the hypothesis of independent genetic control of the traits per se and their PPs. The PP of traits related to leaf area, spatial distribution of leaf area and stem architecture [(leaf area (LA), maximum leaf width (LW), maximum leaf length (LL), leaf orientation value (LOV), vertical leaf angle (VA), leaf length to the flagging point (LF), LE/LL relationship (LFLL), azimuthal leaf orientation (AZ), ear height (EH), plant eight (PH), EH/PH relatioship (EHPH) and stem diameter (SD)] were estimated using 160 RILs from the IBM B73 × Mo17 Syn4 population, cultivated under two contrasting D (5 and 10 pl m− 2) during two growing seasons that determined different environmental conditions. Data were phenotypically analyzed and quantitative traits loci (QTLs) were mapped. For leaf area and stem architecture related traits, high mean values of traits per se were related with high PPs values at low intraspecific competition while low mean values were observed at high intraspecific competition. The opposite response was found on leaf orientation related traits, with the exception of AZ. Forty-eight QTLs were detected for PP of plant architecture related traits on all chromosomes with exception of chromosome 7. There was no phenotypic correlation and no co-located QTLs for traits per se and their PPs. This independent genetic control for traits per se and their PPs would allow breeders to develop genotypes adapted to specific environments selecting for high or low PP in combination with high or low values for relevant agronomic traits.
Distribution of Amphibians and Reptiles in Agricultural Landscape Across Europe
Authors: Bancila Raluca , Lattuada Matteo , Sillero Neftalí
Published: March 2022

ContextTo understand the herpetofauna decline in agricultural landscapes with herpetofauna presence and evaluating the species-specific and species richness patterns in response to their features.ObjectivesThis work aimed to explore how different crop categories (i.e. agroforestry, irrigated, dry and woody crops and pastures), crop extent and heterogeneity affect herpetofauna distribution and diversity patterns at two different spatial resolutions, UTM 50km2 and UTM 10km2.MethodsWe documented the occurrence of European amphibians and reptiles in crops and quantify crop extent and heterogeneity in 50km2 and 10km2 grid cells. ResultsWe recorded 72 amphibian and 142 reptile species at UTM 50 km2 and UTM 10 km2 grids. The geographic location of peaks and troughs of crop extent and of species richness at UTM 50km2 did not coincide with those at UTM 10km2. Our results showed that amphibian and reptile species presence and richness are influenced by crop category, extent and heterogeneity and that spatial patterns were scale dependent. Species richness of both amphibians and reptiles was generally negatively correlated with crop extent but was enhanced by crop heterogeneity.ConclusionsOur results provide useful information for future risk assessment studies of herpetofauna, such as to identify candidates (i.e. “representative species”) for pesticide effect field studies or for studies of risk refinement though radio-tracking.
Tracking the 3D atomic structures during thermal treatment and catalytic activity of individual Pt nanoparticles
Authors: Chun Hoje , Kang Joonhee , Kang Dohun , Hong Sung Jun , Heo Junyoung , Cho Hyeongjin , Heo Jaehyeon , Kim Byung Hyo , Park Jungwon , Han Byungchan
Published: March 2022

To acquire a crystal-clear structure-performance relation for heterogeneous nanocatalysts, precise tracking of the structural evolution from the precursor to final product in the real time and space domain is important but also extremely challenging. In archetype preparation, thermal treatment is a crucial step for activation. Especially, for colloidally synthesized nanoparticles, the ligand detachment process to expose surfaces is completed with thermal treatment. Here, we track the three-dimensional atomic structural change of ligand-protected platinum nanoparticles under ligand detachment and thermal annealing processes. The structural transformation with time is shown by experimental decoupling and tracking of each atomic coordinate through molecular dynamics simulations with machine-learning potentials. Acquisition of structural data is integrated with a computational catalysis framework to identify a structure-activity correlation in the CO oxidation reaction. We find that colloidally synthesized platinum nanoparticles create unique atomic tensile strain and that varying the particle size tunes the ensemble effect of active sites.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for acute lymphoblastic leukemia: why do adolescents and young adults outcomes differ from those of children? A retrospective study on behalf of the Francophone Society of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (SFGM-TC).
Authors: Grain Audrey , Rialland Fanny , Chevallier Patrice , Blin Nicolas , Dalle Jean-Hugues , Michel Gérard , Dhédin Nathalie , de Latour Régis Peffault , Pochon Cécile , Yakoub-Agha Ibrahim , Bertrand Yves , Sirvent Anne , Jubert Charlotte , Forcade Edouard , Berceanu Ana , Gandemer Virginie , Schneider Pascale , Bay Jacques-Olivier , Rohrlich Pierre-Simon , Brissot Eolia , Paillard Catherine , Plantaz Dominique , Quoc Stéphanie Nguyen , Gonzales Fanny , Maillard Natacha , Planche Lucie , Baruchel Andre
Published: March 2022

Purpose: In the Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) landscape, Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) often present high-risk diseases and increased chemotherapy-related toxicity. Studies analyzing outcomes of AYA after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) are scarce. Our study aimed to compare the outcomes of children and AYA with ALL after HSCT and to determine factors influencing potential differences. Method: 891 patients, from the SFGM-TC registry, aged between 1 and 25 years who received HSCT between 2005 and 2012 were included. Outcomes of AYA were compared to the ones of their younger counterparts.Results: Five-year OS and GRFS were lower in AYA: 53.1% versus 64% and 36% versus 47% (p = 0.0012 and p=0.007 respectively). While CIR were similar in both groups, 5 year-Treatment Related Mortality was higher in AYA: 19% versus 13% (p=0.04). The lower GRFS in AYA was mainly explained by a higher chronic Graft versus Host Disease (cGvHD) incidence: 32% versus 19% (p<0.001). Use of Peripheral Blood Stem Cells and use of anti-thymoglobulin appeared to be the main factors impacting cGvHD occurrence in AYA. Conclusion: AYA have worse outcomes than children after HSCT for ALL because of a greater risk of TRM due to cGvHD. HSCT practices should be questioned in this population.
Evaluation of Dental Radiography and Treatment Needs in 3-19-year-old Swedish Patients: a Retrospective, Controlled Comparison of Extremely Preterm–born and Very Preterm–born With Full Term–born Children and Adolescents
Authors: Vicente António , Alward Lubna , Wiedel Anna-Paulina , Becker Magnus , Shi Xie-Qi , Hellén-Halme Kristina , Brogårdh-Roth Susanne
Published: March 2022

Background: Preterm birth has been shown to cause various long-term health issues. Children who were born preterm have also been observed to have more behaviour management problems (BMP) during dental examinations and treatment than children born full term. It is known that dental radiographic examinations can be uncomfortable and cause anxiety in paediatric patients. Our aims were to compare a matched control group of full term-born children and adolescents with preterm–born children and adolescents concerning oral health outcomes, such as prevalence of BMP, missed appointments, caries, treatment needs, including the need for a dental radiographic examination, and experience of orthodontic treatment.Methods: The present study included 311 patient files: 122 very preterm–born and 33 extremely preterm–born children and adolescents (<32 gestational week). A matched control group of 156 full term–born children and adolescents (≥ 37 gestational week) was analysed for comparison. Various factors, including BMP, missed appointments, dental caries, and radiographic examinations, were retrieved from the dental records for three age intervals: 3–6 years, 7–12 years, and 13–19 years.Results: Extremely preterm–born children missed significantly more dental appointments and presented with more BMP during dental examinations and treatment than full term–born children in the 3–6-year age group; the same was observed for the very preterm–born in the 7–12-year age groups. No significant differences in BMP during bitewing and periapical examinations or in number of periapical and panoramic radiographs occurred between the groups in any age interval. Conclusions: The same dental care approach can be used for any child, regardless of gestational age at birth, regarding dental radiography, caries, and treatment needs. However, preterm–born children and adolescents should be given more flexibility in rebooking and receive reminders for scheduled visits with the general dental team.
A Novel Prognostic Signature for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Sumoylation-Related Genes
Authors: Wang Jianping , Cong Peipei , Jin Zhipeng , Liu Lingli , Sun Dongxu , Zhu Wenjing , Shi Guangjun
Published: March 2022

SUMOylation (SUMO modification) has been confirmed to play an important role in the progression of various malignancies. As the value of SUMOylation-related genes (SRGs) in prognosis prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been explored, we aimed to construct a HCC SRGs signature. RNA sequencing was utilized to identify differentially expressed SRGs. The 87 identified genes were used in Univariate Cox regression analysis and the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) analysis to build a signature. The signature was prognostic in the TCGA and ICGC datasets. The GSEA revealed that the risk score was also associated with common cancer-related pathways. The ssGSEA showed NK cells in the high-risk group was significantly reduced. The sensitivities of anti-cancer drugs confirmed the sensitivity of the high-risk group to sorafenib was lower. Further, Our cohort showed that risk scores were correlated with advanced grade and Vascular invasion (VI). Finally, the results of H&E staining and immunohistochemistry of Ki67 showed that higher-risk patients are more malignant.
A potential involvement of PCSK9 in autism etiology: sequence variations, protein concentration and promoter methylation
Authors: Salem Sohair , Mosaad Rehab M. , Lotfy Randa S. , Ashaat Engy A. , Ismail Samira
Published: March 2022

Beside its main role in controlling blood cholesterol, PCSK9 has a role in regulating neuronal development and apoptosis. Therefore, we suggested, for the first time, a possible involvement of PCSK9 as susceptibility gene for autism. This case-control study used sanger sequencing to analyze sequence variations in the twelve exons of PCSK9 gene and their flanking intronic sequences. ELISA assay was used to determine plasma PCSK9 concentration. Methylation percentage of PCSK9 promoter-associated CpG island was assessed by methylation specific PCR(MSP). Forty-three variants were found; out of them, seven variants were differentially- existed between autistic cases and controls. rs45448095, rs45613943, rs630431, rs529500286 and rs45439391 are considered as risk factors for autism, while rs11800231 and rs483462 are protective variants. Plasma level of PCSK9 concentration is significantly elevated and promoter methylation percentage is significantly reduced in autistic cases than control subjects (P = 0.000 and 0.002, respectively). Roc curve analysis identified area under curve (AUC) for plasma PCSK9 concentration as 0.915 and for promoter methylation percentage as 0.693. Additionally, two novel variants (g.23809C > T in intron 11 and g.24071T > G in 3 ̀ UTR) were identified. This is the first study to correlate PCSK9 and autism and concluded a possible involvement of PCSK9 in autism pathogenesis as a new susceptibility gene and recommend further studies with a greater number of subjects.
Identification of NEK7 Inhibitors: Structure based Virtual Screening, Molecular Docking, Density functional theory calculations and Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Aziz Mubashir , Ejaz Syeda Abida , Rehman Hafiz Muzzammel , Al-Buriahi M. S. , Siddique Farhan , Somaily H. H. , Alrowaili Z. A.
Published: March 2022

NEK7 plays a crucial role in many signaling pathways and contributes to a variety of cancers. Therefore, NEK7 has long been considered an attractive drug target in anti-cancer drug discovery. However, only a few efforts have been made in development of NEK7 inhibitors with selectivity. In the present study, we have investigated FDA approved kinase inhibitors as potential NEK7 inhibitors. Although more than 200 FDA approved drugs are available but none is known to inhibit NEK7 protein. These findings motivated us to design in-silico approach for investigation and identification of NEK7 protein. In the current study, Structure-based virtual screening and molecular docking were carried out to identify potential NEK7 inhibitors. Dacomitinib and Neratinib was selected depending upon their potential activities against various cancer cell lines. These drugs were subjected to density functional theory calculations which demonstrated the chemical reactivity of both drugs. Furthermore, molecular docking studies were conducted using Molecular Operating environment 2015.10 and conformations with high docking scores and strong interactions were selected for further analysis. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination and toxicity (ADMET) profile evaluation was also carried out to ascertain toxicity profile of both drugs. The proposed inhibitor–protein complexes were further subjected to Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulations studies involving root-mean-square deviation and root-mean-square fluctuation to explore the binding mode stability inside active pockets. Finally, both drugs were obtained as potential inhibitors of NEK7 protein. All these analyses provide a reference for the further development of NEk7 inhibitors.
Neural Mechanisms Underlying Empathy During Alcohol Abstinence: Evidence from Connectome-Based Modeling
Authors: Yao Guanzhong , Wei Luqing , Jiang Ting , Dong Hui , Baeken Chris , Wu Guorong
Published: March 2022

Empathy impairments have been linked to alcohol dependency, even during abstinent periods. Nonetheless, the neural underpinnings of abstinence-induced deficits in empathy remain unclear. In this study, to predict the empathy capability of abstinent alcoholics (n = 47) versus healthy controls (n = 59), we employed connectome-based predictive modeling (CPM) by using whole brain resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC). In addition, the generalizability of the predictive model (i.e., one group treated as a training dataset and another one treated as a test dataset) was performed to determine whether healthy controls and abstinent alcoholics share common neural fingerprints underlying empathy. Although no comparable predictive models were observed in the abstinence group, our results showed that individual empathy scores in the healthy group can be reliably predicted by functional connectivity from the default mode network (DMN) to the sensorimotor network (SMN), the occipital network, and the cingulo-opercular network (CON). Furthermore, the identified connectivity fingerprints of healthy controls could be generalized to predict empathy in the abstinence group. These findings indicate that neural circuits accounting for empathy may be disrupted by alcohol use and the impaired degree varies greatly among alcohol abstinent individuals.
Serum exosomal miR-1258: A novel biomarker for the diagnosis of acute exacerbations of COPD
Authors: Wang Fei , Yang Boxin , Qiao Jiao , Bai Linlu , Li Zijing , Sun Wenyuan , Liu Qi , Yang Shuo , Cui Liyan
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUNDAcute exacerbation chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) has a high mortality rate, rapid identification of AECOPD from COPD is critical for timely treatment and improved prognosis. However, there is no efficiency biomarker for diagnosing AECOPD. OBJECTIVEThe purpose of this study was to find biomarkers that can quickly and accurately diagnose AECOPD and establish an effective laboratory diagnostic strategy.METHODS45 normal controls (NC), 42 patients with stable COPD (SCOPD), and 66 patients with AECOPD were enrolled in our study. Exosomes were isolated by ultracentrifuge and verified by morphology and specific biomarkers. Fluorescent quantitation polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression of micro RNAs (miRNAs) in serum and exosomes. We constructed the diagnostic models of AECOPD using logistic regression and machine learning methods. RESULTSThe levels of miR-1258 in the patients with AECOPD were higher than that in the patients with COPD and NC both in serum and exosomes. The ability of exosomal miR-1258 (AUC=0.851) to identify AECOPD from SCOPD was superior to neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (AUC=0.797), serum miR-1258 (AUC=0.790), neutrophil count (AUC=0.727), white blood cell count (WBC) (AUC=0.654) and C-reactive protein (CRP) (AUC=0.635), and the combination of exosomal miR-1258 and NLR can increase the AUC to 0.944, with a sensitivity of 81.82%, and specificity of 97.62%. The cross-validation of the models displayed that the logistic regression model based on exosomal miR-1258, NLR and neutrophil count had the best accuracy (0.880) in diagnosing AECOPD from SCOPD. Training set for decision tree showed that of the 108 patients with SCOPD and AECOPD, 50 patients with miR-1258 greater than 0.197, 49 of them had a neutrophil greater than 2.705x10 9 /L were diagnosed with AECOPD. Serum exosome miR-1258 was positively correlated with neutrophil count (r=0.57, p<0.001), WBC (r=0.50, p<0.001), CRP (r=0.33, p<0.001), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) (r=0.29, p<0.001), and NLR (r=0.24, p<0.05).CONCLUSIONSerum exosomal miR-1258 is associated with inflammation, and can be used as a valuable and reliable biomarker for the diagnosis of AECOPD, and the establishment of diagnostic model based on miR-1258, NLR and neutrophils can help improve the accuracy of AECOPD diagnosis. Serum exosomal miR-1258 for AECOPD
Prioritizing patients for medication review by acute ward pharmacists – a mixed methods study in a Danish hospital.
Authors: Almarsdóttir Anna Birna , Haq Romana , Nørgaard Josefine Dalgaard Scheel Vandel
Published: March 2022

Background Little is known about how pharmacists think and act in the situation when they need to prioritize patients without prioritization tools. Aim To understand the individual pharmacist professional’s analytic processes when prioritizing patients for medication review in an emergency department.Method A mixed-methods study with pharmacists working in one emergency department in Denmark. Qualitative participant observations of all seven pharmacists who work at the emergency department were carried out. Semi-structured interviews with six of the pharmacists were held closely in time to the observations. Observations for each pharmacists’ patients were analysed inductively looking for patterns and themes. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed inductively seeking to understand pharmacists’ analytic processes when prioritizing patients for medication review. Results Observations showed that non-clinical prioritization rules had been implemented according to the wishes of the ward management, which affected how the pharmacists prioritized patients. The ways pharmacists prioritized was more targeted with more clinical experience. In the interviews, pharmacists told how they used the rules set out by ward management, how their collaboration with physicians was vital to prioritization, and how the pharmacy profession could better contribute to the ward team. Conclusion Although the ward-established rules increased efficiency, it was not deemed the best way to detect the clinically meaningful patients for the pharmacists working at the Emergency Department. A prioritization tool and sitting closer to the physicians at the ward would help pharmacists be further integrated into patient care and improve prioritization of patients for medication reviews.
Co-composting of agricultural waste from spring onions, chicken manure, and biowaste
Authors: Oviedo-Ocaña Ricardo , Hernández Angélica , Dominguez Isabel , Soto-Paz Jonathan
Published: March 2022

Composting is an adequate method for treating and valorizing agricultural waste such as those from Spring onions (SO) cultivation and chicken breeding (chicken manure -CM). However, the low content of Total Organic Carbon in the waste from SO and the high concentration of total nitrogen in CM are limitations for the composting process. This research studied the co-composting of SO and CM in a paramo ecosystem, together with locally available co-substrates such as biowaste (Bw) and woodchips (Wc), focusing on the effect of co-composting in process development and end-product quality. A pilot-scale experiment was carried out using three treatments in triplicated composting piles: i) Treatment A: 43%CM+41%Bw+16%Wc (dry weight); ii) Treatment B: 52%CM+ 32%SO+16%Wc (dry weight), and iii) Treatment C: 70%SO + 30%Wc (dry weight). Treatments A and B reached thermophilic temperatures after two days of the process start and remained at that level for 17 days. However, treatment B reached environmental temperature during curing in a shorter time (43 days) than treatment A (53 days). Treatment C did not achieve thermophilic temperatures. Tests carried out at the end of the process showed end-product stability and non-phytotoxic characteristics (germination indexes 80%). From the perspective of agricultural use, products from the three treatments had limitations due to deficiencies in essential nutrients like phosphorus. Still, they had potential as a soil amendment for restoration processes. The fertility index of the products showed that treatments A and B presented values of 4.3 (over 5.0) while treatment C obtained a value of 2.5.
Cell Type Specific Cannabinoid CB1 Receptor Distribution Across the Human and Non-Human Primate Cortex
Authors: Chou Shinnyi , Ranganath Teijis , Fish Kenneth , Lewis David , Sweet Robert A
Published: March 2022

Alterations in cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) are implicated in various psychiatric disorders. CB1R participates in both depolarization induced suppression of inhibition (DSI) and depolarization induced suppression of excitation (DSE), suggesting its involvement in regulating excitatory and inhibitory (E/I) balance. Prior studies examining neuronal cell type specific CB1R distribution have been conducted near exclusively within rodents. Identification of these distribution patterns within the human and non-human primate cortex is essential to increase our insight into its function. Using co-labeling immunohistochemistry and fluorescent microscopy, we examined CB1R protein levels within excitatory and inhibitory boutons of human and non-human primate prefrontal cortex and auditory cortices, regions involved in the behavioral effects of exogenous cannabinoid exposures. We found that CB1R was present in both bouton populations within all brain regions examined in both species. Significantly higher CB1R levels were found within inhibitory than within excitatory boutons across all regions in both species, although the cell type by brain region interactions differed between the two species. Our results support the importance of conducting more in-depth CB1R examinations to understand how cell type and brain region dependent differences contribute to regional E/I balance regulation, and how aberrations in CB1R distribution may contribute to pathology.
Effect of pulse current on droplet transfer behavior and weld formation of 304 stainless steel in local dry underwater MIG welding
Authors: Liao Haipeng , Zhang Wenxu , Li Xuyan , Pei Kai , Lin Sanbao , Tian Jiyu , Wang Zhenmin
Published: March 2022

In this study, 304 stainless steel which widely used in the industrial field due to its excellent thermostability, corrosion resistance and welding performance, was welded using local dry underwater pulse metal inert-gas (LDU-PMIG) welding technology. The effect of different pulse peak currents on droplet transfer behavior and weld formation was studied. The results show that short circuit transfer, globular transfer, and projected transfer could be observed in the LDU-PMIG process. With the peak current of 240A, the droplet transfer mode was short circuit transfer and globular transfer, the weld formation was irregular with large particle spatters around the weld. With the peak current increased to 260A, the droplet transfer mode changed into the globular transfer, and the weld formation quality was improved. With the peak current of 280A, the droplet transfer mode was projected transfer, the weld formation was satisfied with few spatter, and the coefficient of weld formation was the largest, projected transfer was the most stable mode. With the increase of the peak current from 300A to 320A, the droplet transfer mode did not change, but the instability of the welding arc resulted in poor weld formation with serious spatters and undercuts.
Children and Neonates Anesthesia in Magnetic Resonance Environment in Italy. An active Call Survey
Authors: Sbaraglia Fabio , Spinazzola Giorgia , Adduci Alessia , De Riso Mariella , Festa Rossano , Garra Rossella , Tosi Federica , Rossi Marco
Published: March 2022

Background Pediatric anesthesia care in the Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a challenge for clinicians. The recent debate about the role of anesthetic agent on neural development, encouraged an evaluation of their actual activity in this environment. In this active call survey, the authors sought to delineate the Italian situation regarding national centers, staff involved, monitoring and tools available.Methods A complete sample of all national centers performing almost a pediatric discharge in the 2014 was obtained from Health Ministery registers. All Institution were contacted for a prospective phone investigation and a three section survey was fill out with the Physician in charge. A descriptive and exploratory analyses about the organization setting of the Centers (procedures, performers, monitoring and tools) were performed. Results Among 876 Institution screened, only 106 (37%) met minimal criteria for inclusion. Children are managed by anesthesiologists in the 95% of cases, while neonates in the 54%. A dedicated nurse is present in 74% of centers. While a pulse oximetry is present in 100% of centers, the rate of prevalence of other monitoring is lower (EKG94%; EtCO283%; Blood Pressure65%). A specific MRI-compatible ventilator is available in the 95% of Centers, but many tools are not equally homogenously distributed: Halogenated Vaporizers (82%), Scavenger System (72%), Suction devices (95%), non-magnetic infusion pumps (38%). Conclusions Our results could be a starting point to evaluate the further evolution of approach to children and neonates in magnetic resonance setting. Staff involved is generally qualified, but monitoring availability is unsatisfactory in many Centers.
β-Elemene Enhance the Cisplatin Sensitivity of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 Pathway in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Wang Haiye , Ma Yingyi
Published: March 2022

Objective To investigate the effect of β-Elemene (β-Ele) on the cisplatin sensitivity of OSCC cells and its mechanism in vitro and in vivo. Methods The human OSCC cell lines Tca-8113 and the cisplatin-resistant cell line Tca-8113-CDDP were cultured with β-Ele or/and cisplatin. MTT assay was used to detect the cisplatin or β-Ele cytotoxicity and the cell viability. The cell cycles and cell apoptosis were detected by the flow cytometry. The expression of caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, STAT3, p-STAT3, JAK2, p-JAK2 were detected by western blot. The xenograft tumor model of OSCC was established in nude mice and treated with cisplatin and/or β-Ele. The volume and weight of the transplanted tumor was measured, and the expression of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 in the xenograft tumor tissues were determined by immunohistochemistry and the cell apoptosis were detected by TUNEL assays.Results The combination of β-Ele and cisplatin significantly suppressed the cell proliferation, induced cell cycle arrest, promoted the apoptosis of Tca-8113-CDDP cells, and suppressed the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.The rescue experiments suggested that β-Ele enhanced cisplatin sensitivity via down-regulating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. In vivo, β-Ele and cisplatin synergistically suppressed the tumor growth and induced apoptosis, and down-regulated the expression of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3. Conclusions β-Ele inhibits the cell viability and enhances the cisplatin sensitivity of OSCC by blocking the activation of JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo, and the combination of β-Ele and cisplatin maybe a novel treatment for OSCC.
Automated harvesting by a dual-arm fruit harvesting robot
Authors: Yoshida Takeshi , Onishi Yuki , Kawahara Takuya , Fukao Takanori
Published: March 2022

In this study, we propose a method to automate fruit harvesting with a fruit harvesting robot equipped with robotic arms. Given the future growth of the world population, food shortages are expected to accelerate. Since much of Japan’s agriculture is dependent on imports, it is expected to be greatly affected by this upcoming food shortage. In recent years, the number of agricultural workers in Japan has been decreasing and the population is aging. As a result, there is a need to automate and reduce labor in agricultural work using agricultural machinery. In particular, fruit cultivation requires a lot of manual labor due to the variety of orchard conditions and tree shapes, causing mechanization and automation to lag behind. In this study, a dual-armed fruit harvesting robot was designed and fabricated to reach most of the fruits on joint V-shaped trellis that was cultivated and adjusted for the robot. For the fruit harvesting robot to harvest the fruit, it uses sensors and computer vision to detect and estimate the position of the fruit, and then inserts end-effectors into the lower part of the fruit. During this process, there is a possibility of collision within the robot itself or with other fruits depending on the position of the fruit to be harvested. In this study, inverse kinematics and a fast path planning method using random sampling is used to harvest fruits with robot arms. This method makes it possible to control the robot arms without interfering with the fruit or the other robot arm by considering them as obstacles. Through experiments, this study showed that these methods can be used to detect pears and apples outdoors and automatically harvest them using the robot arms.
Prevalence and Determinants of Antimicrobials Resistance of Pathogens Among Cancer Patients in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Mohamed Nancy , Ghazal Abeer , Ahmed Asmaa Abdel Hameed , Zaki Adel
Published: March 2022

Background: Infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) are a global increasing threat among critically ill patients, especially those with underlying malignancy. We aimed to assess the prevalence, susceptibility patterns of MDRO among cancer patients in intensive care units (ICU) and their predictors.Methods: Over 4 years, we retrospectively reviewed medical records of 497 malignancy patients in ICU of a tertiary hospital in Egypt. Data for various factors like demographic characters, comorbidities, causative pathogen, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) were collected and analyzed using univariate analysis. Logistic multivariate regression analysis was used to develop a clinical prediction model to estimate the probability of developing MDRO among this population. Results: A total of 748 isolates were obtained from 1249 collected clinical specimens. Gram-negative bacterial pathogens detected were 459 (61.4%) of all isolates, while 75 (10%) only were Gram-positive and 214 (28.6%) were fungal pathogens. The most frequent isolate was Klebsiella pneumoniae (n= 183), of which 107 were carbapenem resistant (CR) and 62 were extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) strains. This was followed by Escherichia coli (n= 136), of which 17 were CR and 100 were ESBL strains while 3 were quinolone resistant. Furthermore, Acinetobacter baumannii (n= 67), of which 63 were CR. Overall susceptibility of gram-negative pathogens to antibiotics was recorded highest among colistin (97.3%). The prevalence of methicillin- resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Enterococcus species among Gram-Positive bacteria were 54.6% and 33.3% respectively, with no resistance reported to vancomycin, teicoplanin or linezolid. Among MDRO acquisition predictors were neutropenia, recent antibiotics use and receiving chemotherapy. Neutropenia had the highest odds ratio (O.R: 2.3, C.I: 1.28- 4.09) followed by recent antibiotics use (O.R: 1.8, C.I: 1.22- 2.59).Conclusion: Gram-Negative Bacilli were the most frequent reported MDRO, with resistance to higher generation cephalosporins and even carbapenems, limiting antibiotic treatment options to older class of antibiotics as colistin with potential side effects as nephrotoxicity. Estimating AMR probability using the prediction model of risk factors as neutropenia and previous antibiotics use, maybe functional in rapid identification of higher risk patients.
Delayed diagnosis of thoracic esophageal rupture due to blunt abdominal trauma without chest trauma: A case report
Authors: Han Jung Wook , Kim Jae Jun
Published: March 2022

Background
Thoracic esophageal rupture due to blunt trauma is very rare. Moreover, there have been no reports of thoracic esophageal rupture due to blunt abdominal trauma without chest trauma.
Case presentation:
We describe a rare case of esophageal rupture due to blunt abdominal trauma in a young female patient. Operation was delayed due to a misdiagnosis of chylothorax, and esophageal repair was performed six days after trauma. Postoperative esophageal leak developed and was treated with esophageal stent. She was discharged two months after surgery without sequelae.
Conclusions
It is important to consider esophageal rupture as a differential diagnosis even in patients with only abdominal trauma, when in doubt.
Follicular Fluid Steroid Levels and Mitochondrial Function from Exosomes Predict Embryonic Development
Authors: Yu Li , Liu Miao , Xu Shiji , Wang Zhenxin , Liu Te , Zhou Jiaye , Zhang Doudou , Dong Xi , Pan Baishen , Wang Beili , Liu Suying , Guo Wei
Published: March 2022

PurposeHuman follicular fluid (FF) is a complex biological fluid that contributes to the microenvironment of oocyte development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of steroid levels and mitochonrial function in embryo development during in vitro fertilization cycles.MethodsThis was a cohort study of 138 women receiving IVF/ICSI, including 136 FF samples from 109 infertile women. FF steroid levels were tested by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and immunoassays. The mRNA expression levels of mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complex genes from FF exosomes were detected by qPCR.ResultsAnalysis of these individual FF concentrations revealed that LH and FSH concentrations were higher in follicles in which the oocyte developed into a top quality (TQ) blastocyst (LH: 9.44±2.32mIU/ml, FSH: 9.32±1.01mIU/ml) than those in which there was a failure of fertilization (LH: 5.30±0.84mIU/ml, FSH: 6.91±0.62mIU/ml). In contrast, follicular cortisone concentrations were the lower for oocytes that resulted in a TQ blastocyst (12.20±0.82mIU/ml). The receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that FF LH and FSH levels predicted TQ blastocyst with excellent AUC value of 0.711 and 0.747. Mitochondrial ETC complex I and III mRNA levels were increased in the FF exosomes of TQ blastocyst. Correlation analysis showed that mRNA levels of ETC complex I was positively correlated with LH and FSH levels in FF.ConclusionThe levels of FF steroids from single follicle can predetermine subsequent embryo development to some extent. Furthermore, impaired exosome mitochondrial dysfunction is a potiential event that causes hormone change in embryo development.
Examination of The Relationship Between Tendencies of Narcissism and Eating Disorders in Elite Athletes
Authors: Korkmaz Nimet Haşıl , Ozturk Inci Ece , Mutlu Selen Ugur , Akbas Gamze , Hasturk Meltem
Published: March 2022

Purpose The increase of eating disorders in the athlete population is remarkable. Disorders concerning eating impulse, bodyweight obsession, negative thoughts about body shape, and accompanying affective disorders are psychological disorders in which eating behavior is seriously affected. A narcissistic personality disorder is defined as a continuous pattern that includes superiority complex, inability to empathize, and the need to be approved. Some narcissistic characteristics such as a desire for unlimited power, success, beauty and to be approved may be related to the eating habits of athletes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the tendency of narcissism and eating disorders in elite athletes.Methods Participants of the study were 223 elite athletes (99 men, 124 women) from different sports branches aged between 18-36 years old. The Narcissistic Personality Inventory-16 and the Eating Attitude Test were used as data collection tools. Spearman Correlation Analysis and Mann Whitney U Test were used in the analysis of the data. Results A very weak positive relationship was found between eating disorder scores and narcissism scores (p<.05). A very weak positive correlation was found between the exhibitionism sub-dimension and eating disorders tendency (p<.05). Conclusions There is a very weak positive relationship between narcissism tendency and eating disorder tendency variables and also between exhibitionism and eating disorders tendency. Therefore, athletes should be informed about nutrition for their performance by following interdisciplinary approaches.
Modified Conditioning Regimen MCE in Upfront HSCT Provides a Substantial Survival Benefit in High-risk DLBCL
Authors: Ma Jiexian , Sun Shunrong , Hu Yingwei , Wu Min , Shen Lin , Fulati Wulipan , Huang Zilan , Qian Wensi , Chen Pingping , Chen Mingyue , Xie Yanhui
Published: March 2022

Background: High-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) remains controversial as a front-line therapy for high-risk diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Moreover, whether modifying the conditioning regimen with anthracyclines for DLBCL will improve the effect and achieve a deeper response in upfront HSCT remains unexplored. Methods: In the present study, we retrospectively compared the outcomes of 156 high-risk DLBCL patients treated with non-HSCT, upfront HSCT or salvage HSCT with a conditioning regimen consisting of mitoxantrone, etoposide, and cyclophosphamide (MCE). Result: We found that an MCE conditioning regimen achieved a complete hematopoietic engraftment and well-tolerated, the incidence of grade 1–2 cardiac toxicity was 3.1%. Transplant-related mortality did not occur. The overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of the upfront group (117.8 and 92.9 months) were substantially longer than that of the non-HSCT group (78.1 and 48.9 months) (P = 0.001 vs P = 0.009), also much longer than that of salvage HSCT group (58.3 m and 21.5 m) (P = 0.00 vs P = 0.00). The multivariate analysis that AnnArbor Stage was related to PFS and OS in upfront HSCT with the MCE regimen. Conclusions: The upfront HSCT with MCE regimen was well-tolerated and exhibited intriguing data in front line therapy to improve the high-risk DLBCL prognosis. However, whether high-risk DLBCL should receive consolidation HSCT with an MCE regimen after an initial CR requires a prospective, large-scale, long-term clinical trials to validate.Retrospectively registered: This study was approved by the Ethical Committee of Huadong Hospital with the Ethical number of 2021K126.
Transfection of Heat Shock Protein 70kDa (HSP70)
Authors: Gestin Maxime , Falato Luca , Ciccarelli Michela , Cerrato Carmine Pasquale , Andréasson Claes , Langel Ülo
Published: March 2022

Heat shock protein 70kDa (HSP70) is a major protein family in the cell protections against stress-induced denaturation and aggregation and in the folding of nascent proteins. It is a highly conserved protein that can be found in most organisms and is strongly connected to several intracellular pathways such as protein folding and refolding, protein degradation and regulation, and protection against intense stress. Cellular delivery of HSP70 would be of high impact for clarification of its role in these cellular processes.PepFect14 is a cell-penetrating peptide known to be able to mediate the transfection of various oligonucleotides to multiple cell lines with a higher efficacy than most commercially available transfection agents and without inducing significant toxic effects.In this study we demonstrated that PepFect14 was able to form a complex with HSP70 and to deliver it inside cells in the same fashion with oligonucleotide delivery. The delivered HSP70 showed an effect in the cell regulation indicating that the protein was biologically available in the cytoplasm and the interactions with PepFect14 did not impeach its active sites once the plasma barrier crossed.This study reports the first successful delivery of HSP70 to our knowledge and the first protein transfection mediated by PepFect14. It opens new fields of research for both PepFect14 as a delivery agent and HSP70 as a therapeutic agent; with potential in peptide aggregation caused diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Functional Responses of Dermal Fibroblasts to Low Nutrition and Pro-Inflammatory Stimuli Mimicking a Wound Environment in Vitro
Authors: Zavadakova Anna , Vistejnova Lucie , Tonarova Pavla
Published: March 2022

Dermal fibroblasts (DF) constitute one of key cells involved in wound healing. However, the functions they perform in wound conditions remain poorly understood. This study involved exposing DF to low nutrition and to low nutrition + LPS for 5 days as conditions representing the wound. Although DF exhibited increasing metabolic activity in time under all conditions including control, the proliferation did not change in both low nutrition and low nutrition + LPS. Only the low nutrition + LPS was found to potentiate the migration and pro-inflammatory phenotype (IL6 release) of DF. The potential of DF to contract collagen hydrogel declined only under the low nutrition as a consequence of low cell number. The expression of α-SMA was reduced under the both conditions independently of the cell number. The remodeling capability of DF was affected under the both conditions as documented by the enhanced MMP2 activity. Finally, the production of collagen type I was not affected by either condition. The study shows that low nutrition as the single factor is able to delay the healing process. Moreover, the addition of the mild pro-inflammatory stimulus represented by LPS may amplify the cell response in case of decreased α-SMA expression or excite DF to produce IL6 impairing the healing process.
Dignity in Care at the End of Life in a Nursing Home: an Ethnographic Study
Authors: Holmberg Bodil , Godskesen Tove
Published: March 2022

Background: Nursing homes (NHs) are populated by the frailest older people with multiple physical or mental conditions and palliative care needs. Although dignity is a commonly used concept, it has been claimed to be complex, ambiguous, and multivalent. Nevertheless, dignity is a core value of end-of-life care and is why this study aimed to explore aspects of dignity in older persons’ everyday lives in a NH.Design: A focused ethnographic study design. Methods: Data consisted of 170 hours of fieldwork, including observations (n=39) with residents (n=19) and assistant nurses (n=22) in a NH in a Swedish urban area. Open interviews were undertaken with residents several times (in total, n=35, mean 70 minutes/resident). To study dignity and dignity-related concerns, we used the Chochinov model of dignity to direct the deductive analysis.Results: The study showed that residents suffered from illness-related concerns that inhibited their possibilities to live a dignified life at the NH. Their failing bodies were the most significant threat to their dignity, as loss of abilities was constantly progressing. Together with a fear of becoming more dependent, this caused feelings of angst and loneliness. The most dignity-conserving repertoire came from within themselves. Their self-knowledge had provided them with tools to distinguish what was still possible from what they just had to accept. Socially, the residents’ dignity depended on assistant nurses’ routines and behaviour. Their dignity was violated by long waiting times, lack of integrity in care, and deteriorating routines, but also by distanced and sometimes harsh encounters with assistant nurses. As the residents oin this study cherished autonomy and self-determination, while still in need of much help, these circumstances placed them in a vulnerable situation. Conclusions: To protect residents’ dignity, NHs need to apply a palliative care approach to provide holistic care that comprises attending to personal, bodily, social, spiritual and psychological needs to increase well-being and prevent suffering.
Predictors for the restoration of the sagittal spinal malalignment in patients with lumbar stenosis after short-segment decompression and fusion surgery
Authors: Huang Rufeng , Pan Fumin , Zhu Weiguo , Kong Chao , Lu Shibao , Wang Shuaikang
Published: March 2022

Objective: To explore the predictors for the restoration of the sagittal spinal malalignment in the elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) after short-segment decompression and fusion surgery.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 82 LSS patients with sagittal malalignment (SVA≥50mm or PT≥20° or PI-LL≥20°) who underwent short-segment decompression and fusion surgery between January 2019 and March 2021. Patients’ characteristic, radiographic and paravertebral muscle parameters were assessed. The patients were divided into group A (postoperative malalignment) and B (postoperative alignment) according to whether the postoperative restoration of the sagittal alignment was achieved.Results: There existed more males in group B than in group A (p=0.002). The age of group A (73.36±8.02) was greater than that of group B (69.08±6.07, p=0.009). Preoperative PT in group A (27.40±5.82) was greater than that in group B (19.30±7.32, p<0.001). The functional cross-sectional area (fCSA) in group A (28.73±4.23) was lower than that in group B (36.94±7.81, p<0.001). And the fatty infiltration rate (FI) of group A (27.16%±5.58%) was higher than that of group B (22.61%±5.81%, p=0.001). The fCSA was negatively correlated with the postoperative PT and PTr (p<0.05).Conclusion: Stronger lumbar paravertebral muscles, smaller preoperative PI, PT or PI-LL, male and younger age are the predictors for the restoration of the sagittal spinal malalignment in the elderly LSS patients after short-segment decompression and fusion surgery.