bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Chitosan Pretreatment to Reduce Microfibers Released From Synthetic Garments During Laundering
Authors: kang heejun , Park Saerom , Lee Bokjin , ahn jaehwan , Kim Seog-Ku
Published: May 2021

Sewage treatment is known to be able to remove more than 90% of microplastics; nevertheless, a considerable amount of microplastics is eventually discharged into the ocean. Given that microfibers (MFs) primarily generated from the washing of synthetic clothes are the most abundant type of microplastics among various microplastics detected in the sewage treatment, it is necessary to reduce the amount of MFs entering these plants. This study aimed to reduce the amount of MFs released from the washing process by applying a chitosan pretreatment to the garments before the washing. In this study, before the chitosan pretreatment, the polyester clothes released 148 MFs/L, whereas a 95% MFs generation reduction was observed after the chitosan pretreatment using a 0.7% of chitosan solution. Other types of garments, such as polyamide and acrylic garments, were treated with a 0.7% of chitosan solution, and this resulted in the reduction of MFs generation by 48% and 49%, respectively. Therefore of the morphology analysis after the washing, chitosan coating on polyamide and acrylic were more damaged than on polyester. It suggests that the binding strength of polyamide and acrylic with chitosan were weaker than of polyester coated with chitosan. Thus, the results of this study suggest that chitosan pretreatment is a promising solution for reducing the amount of MFs generated in the laundering process.
Sampling Frequency Is a Key Factor to the Efficient Actuation of the Phytohormones in the Increase of Biomass and Macromolecules Production by Spirulina (Arthorspira)
Authors: Silveira Jéssica Teixeira , Rosa Ana Priscila Centeno , Costa Jorge Alberto Vieira
Published: May 2021

Application of microalgae in industries is limited by their low biomass production and low macromolecule content. Phytohormones are being studied to solve these problems, however is necessary to define conditions that enhance the results for this kind of cultivation strategy. The increasing of the contact time between substances and cells can be a factor of the improvement in the phytohormone uptake by microalgae. We hypothesize that by decreasing the sampling frequency for monitoring culture parameters, we would also be interfering less in the uptake of phytohormones by microalgae. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the influence of sampling frequency on the production of biomass and biomolecules of Spirulina sp. LEB 18 in cultivations supplemented with trans-zeatin and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Treatments with lower sampling frequency and supplementation of 1 mg L− 1 IAA enhanced biomass accumulation by 75 %, carbohydrate content by 50 %, and protein content by 30 % as compared to control experiment daily sampling. In addition, sampling every 10 days with 0,01 mg L− 1 IAA supplementation increased the lipid content by 51 % as compared with the experiment without phytohormone and daily sample removal. Therefore, we developed a new strategy to supplement phytohormones and improve microalgal production. This investigation presented a cultivation system efficient, which can be easy to implement in industries because of no need to change the operational aspects of the cultivation. Furthermore, the strategy will can be very useful to enhance the production capacity of microalgae on a large-scale.
Root- Nodulating Ensifer Adhaerens Ks23 of Pisum Sativum L. In Optimisation of Cadmium Biosorption Using Rsm Based Approach
Authors: katiyar prashant , Kumar Sandeep , Dubey Ramesh Chandra , Maheshwari Dinesh Kumar
Published: May 2021

The Cadmium tolerance by root nodulating bacteria Ensifer adhaerens KS23 inhabiting in Pisum sativum L. var. Arkel revealed linear relationship with inorganic salt cadmium sulphate (CdSO4) upto 200 μg/ml, corresponding to growth and survival in solid as well as liquid Yeast Extract Mannitol (YEM) medium with LC50 value of 107.2 μg/ml and LC95 of 184.5 μg/ml. The results of phylogenetic and morpho-physiological analysis exhibited the genus E. adhaerens. KS23 was found to be the most promising among all the 20 isolates. The increase in Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity by KS23 was 9.7 fold under Cd stress. Wherein, P and F values were <0.05 and 26.54 respectively and predicted r2 value of 0.8192 and adjusted r2 value 0.8908 were reasonable (i.e. <0.2) of the Box Behnken design. The data showed that 81.24% cadmium bio-removal achieved at pH 6.0, 30°C and 168 h of incubation while supplementing the YEM medium with 25 μg/ml cadmium. Further, its effect on plant growth and development exhibited due to production of IAA, secretion of siderophores, phosphate solubilisation and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase activity by E. adhaerens KS23. In addition to inherent PGP attributes, Cd tolerant E. adhaerens KS23 played dual role of biosorption of cadmium and upsurge in growth promotion of P. sativum which may provide a new root-nodulating bacterium inhabiting in P. sativum cultivated at high altitudes of Himalayan region.
Central Corneal Thickness in an Adult Non-Glaucomatous Ethnic Population in Nigeria
Authors: Uche Nkechinyere Judith , karaiwe Nkiru Kizor , Okeke Suhanya , Shiweobi Jude
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To determine the mean central corneal thickness (CCT) of healthy adult Nigerians from the Igbo ethnic population in southeastern Nigeria which has the highest prevalence of glaucoma and to evaluate the relationship if any between mean CCT and patients’ demographics.Methods: A cross sectional study conducted at an eye screening center in Enugu Southeastern Nigeria. Subjects with healthy eyes from the Igbo ethnic population were recruited. Central corneal thickness was measured with ultrasound pachymetry (Sonomed PacScan plus, model 300AP+) on eligible subjects. Topical anesthetic was instilled and 3 measurements of corneal thickness were taken. The average thickness for each eye was calculated and the relationship between mean CCT, age and gender were studied.Results: 706 eyes of 353 participants were examined. 52.7% of the subjects were females while 47.3% were males. The mean age of participants was 50.29 ± 16.58 years. The mean central corneal thickness (CCT) for RE was 527.68 ± 36.88μm (95% CI: 523.83 –531.55μm) and 527.45 ± 38.01μm for LE (95% CI: 523.47 – 531.43μm). There was a decrease in CCT values with increasing age (p= 0.016, p= 0.05 for RE and left eyes respectively). Males had a significantly higher CCT compared to females for both right and left eyes (p=0.004, p=0.007).Conclusion: Central corneal thickness values in the Igbo ethnic population of Southeast Nigeria, an ethnic group with the reported highest prevalence of glaucoma in Nigeria from our study is thinner than those reported from other regions both within Nigeria as well as some Sub-Saharan populations, Caucasians, Asians, and Hispanics but it is however comparable with values reported among Cameroonians and African Americans. CCT among Nigerian Igbos, seems to decrease with age and appears thicker in males compared with females.
PDK4-Mediated Metabolic Reprogramming Promotes Rituximab Resistance in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Via Negative Regulation of MS4A1/CD20
Authors: Jiang Duanfeng , Mo Qiuyu , Sun Xiaoying , Wang Xiaotao , Dong Min , Zhang Guozhen , Chen Fangping , Zhao Qiangqiang
Published: May 2021

Background: Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) heterogeneity promotes the recurrence and anti-CD20-based therapeutic resistance. In previous studies, it has been demonstrated that the downregulation of MS4A1/CD20 expression after chemoimmunotherapy with rituximab can lead to rituximab resistance. However, the the mechanisms of CD20-loss remains unknown. Methods: The expression levels of PDK4 were investigated in DLBCL patients and cell lines by RNA-seq, qRT-PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis. Lentiviral infection was used to regulate the level of PDK4 in DLBCL cells. The effects of PDK4 on apoptosis, drug sensitivity and proliferation of DLBCL cells were evaluated by flow cytometry and cell-counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, as well as being assessed in a murine model. Cell metabolism was conducted by measurement of glucose consumption, lactate production, ATP levels, ECAR and OCR with corresponding assay kit. Results: Our data showed that PDK4 expression levels elevated significantly in DLBCL cells derived from both the patients and cell lines with rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone regimen) resistant. We further found that the overexpression of PDK4 in DLBCL cells can lead to cell proliferation and rituximab resistance both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the loss of PDK4 expression or treatment with the PDK4 inhibitor dichloroacetate is effective in increasing the rituximab-induced cell apoptosis in DLBCL cells. According to the mechanism studies, PDK4 mediated a metabolic shift that the main energy source was changed from OXPHOS to glycolysis. More importantly, with the knockdown or overexpression of PDK4 in DLBCL cells leads to a reverse MS4A1/CD20 expression. Conclusion: Our data identify a metabolic reprogramming role of PDK4 in rituximab resistance of DLBCL and highlight the unique function of PDK4 as an attractive therapeutic target.
Methodology of optimisation for a nanostructured two-photon absorption photodetector
Authors: Dauphin Maxence , Fix Baptiste , Jaeck Julien , Haïdar Riad
Published: May 2021

We introduce a 3-step method to optimise a nanostructured photodetector for infrared sensing through non degenerated two-photon absorption (NDTPA). First, the nanostructure is designed to tailor the distribution and concentration of both pump and signal intensities within the absorbing layer, thus leading to a gain in two-photon absorption. Second, the issue of the competition between NDTPA and other sub-bandgap transitions is tackled with a new figure of merit to favor as much as possible NDTPA while minimising other absorption processes. Third, a refined computation of the gain and the figure of merit is done to consider focused beams. Finally, two scenarios based on low power infrared photodetection are investigated to illustrate the flexibility and adaptibility of the method. It is shown that the gain is up to 7 times higher and the figure of merit is up to 20 times higher compared to the literature.
Improvement of Peripheral Nerve Visualization Using a Deep Learning-based MR Reconstruction Algorithm
Authors: Zochowski Kelly C. , Tan Ek Tsoon , Argentieri Erin C. , Lin Bin , Burge Alissa J. , Queler Sophie C. , Lebel R. Marc , Sneag Darryl B.
Published: May 2021

Objective: To assess a new deep learning-based MR reconstruction method, “DLRecon,” for clinical evaluation of peripheral nerves.Methods: Sixty peripheral nerves were prospectively evaluated in 29 patients (mean age: 49±16 years, 17 female) undergoing standard-of-care (SOC) MR neurography for clinically suspected neuropathy. SOC-MRIs and DLRecon-MRIs were obtained through conventional and DLRecon reconstruction methods, respectively. Two radiologists randomly evaluated blinded images for outer epineurium conspicuity, fascicular architecture visualization, pulsation artifact, ghosting artifact, and bulk motion. Results: DLRecon-MRIs were likely to score better than SOC-MRIs for outer epineurium conspicuity (OR=1.9, p=0.007) and visualization of fasicular architecture (OR=1.8, p<0.001) and were likely to score worse for ghosting (OR=2.8, p=0.004) and pulsation artifacts (OR=1.6, p=0.004). There was substantial to almost-perfect inter-reconstruction method agreement (AC=0.73-1.00) and fair to almost-perfect interrater agreement (AC=0.34-0.86) for all features evaluated. DLRecon-MRI had improved interrater agreement for outer epineurium conspicuity (AC=0.71, substantial agreement) compared to SOC-MRIs (AC=0.34, fair agreement). In >80% of images, the radiologist correctly identified an image as SOC- or DLRecon-MRI.Discussion: Outer epineurium and fasicular architecture conspicuity, two key morphological features critical to evaluating a nerve injury, were improved in DLRecon-MRIs compared to SOC-MRIs. Although pulsation and ghosting artifacts increased in DLRecon images, image interpretation was unaffected.
Land-Use and Climate Drive Shifts in Bombus Assemblage Composition
Authors: Christman Morgan Elizabeth , Spears Lori R , Strange James P , Pearse William D , Burchfield Emily K , Ramirez Ricardo A
Published: May 2021

ContextPollinators play pivotal roles in maintaining agricultural and natural plant communities, yet some bee populations are declining. The conversion of agricultural and semi-natural lands for urban use has reduced bee abundance and diversity. Meanwhile, climate change has affected bee distributions and led to disruption of plant-pollinator synchrony, impacting ecosystem processes. However, how these factors co-occur to influence bee assemblages is poorly understood.ObjectivesWe linked differences in bumble bee (Bombus) diversity to landscape composition and climate in agroecosystems in order to understand their co-occurring effects.MethodsWe evaluated Bombus assemblages in relation to the proportion of agricultural, semi-natural, and urban landscapes and interannual variation in temperature, precipitation, and relative humidity in Utah agroecosystems from 2014 to 2018.ResultsBombus species richness and diversity was highest in agricultural landscapes characterized by low temperatures and high relative humidity during the growing season, and lowest in urban areas with high temperatures and low relative humidity. Ongoing and future urbanization and climate change may therefore lead to reduced Bombus diversity in Utah. Although some historically uncommon species, such as B. pensylvanicus, may thrive under future land-use and climate scenarios, others (e.g., B. sylvicola, B. californicus, and B. occidentalis) are at increased risk of extirpation due to loss of suitable habitat.ConclusionsContinually monitoring Bombus populations will help document shifts in assemblages and potential consequential impacts to ecosystem services. These findings emphasize that management strategies moving forward should consider the effect of co-occurring factors as opposed to single factors in order to foster future resiliency of Bombus populations.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Adults Under Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: stern jules , Dupuis Claire , Reuter Jean , Vinclair Camille , Para Marylou , Nataf Patrick , Pelletier Anne-Laure , de Montmollin Etienne , Bouadma Lila , Timsit Jean-François , Sonneville Romain
Published: May 2021

Objective. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a common complication in adults treated with veno-arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for refractory cardiogenic shock or cardiac arrest. We aimed to determine risk factors, prevalence and outcomes associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in adult patients under VA-ECMO.Design. We conducted a retrospective cohort study (2014-2017) on consecutive VA-ECMO patients.Setting. Medical and Infectious Disease intensive care unit of university hospital Bichat-Claude Bernard in Paris, France.Patients. UGIB was defined as 1) an overt bleeding (hematemesis, melena, hematochezia), or 2) acute anemia associated with a lesion diagnosed on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Cause-specific models were used to identify factors associated with UGIB and death, respectively.Measurements and Main Results. 257 patients were included, of whom 48 (19%) were diagnosed with UGIB after a median of 18 [7; 43] days following cannulation; median SAPS II was 59 [43; 76]. 100 (39%) patients were implanted after cardiac surgery. Mortality occurred in 31 (65%) patients with UGIB and 121 (58%) patients without. UGIB patients had longer ICU stays (41 [19; 82] vs. 15 [6; 26]; p<.01), longer ECMO (10.5 [7; 15] vs 6 [3; 10]; p <.01) and mechanical ventilation durations (31 [18; 45] vs. 9 [5; 18]; p <.01) in days, as compared to non-UGIB patients. Ninety-nine upper gastrointestinal endoscopies (UGE) were performed and the most frequent lesions detected were gastro-duodenal ulcers (n=28, 28%), leading to 12/99 therapeutic procedures. Neither antiplatelet therapy prior to ICU admission nor a history of peptic ulcer were associated with UGIB in univariate analysis. By multivariate analysis (table), a BMI (body mass index) > 30 kg/m2 (Cause-specific hazard ratio (CSHR) [95% CI]): 3.06 [1.56; 5.98]), and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) (CSHR 2.34 [1.03; 5.35]) were independently associated with an increased risk of UGIB. Conclusions. In adult patients under VA-ECMO, obesity and ECPR were independently associated with UGIB. This study highlights the potential role of obesity and acute ischemia reperfusion injury in the pathophysiology of VA-ECMO-associated UGIB.
Reducing Rational Polynomial: A Proposition of a Strategy to Deal With Floating Points Numbers Using SVD
Authors: DEEB Ahmad , Belarbi Rafik
Published: May 2021

In this article, we present a new strategy to reduce rational polynomial based on the kernel of a linear map defined by the matrix's Sylvester. The strategy does not hold the computation of the Greatest common divisors (GCD) of two polynomials, as other algorithms do, but produce the reduced fraction directly. This strategy was inspired when we consider elements of Padé approximant as a basis is the Proper Generalised Decomposition for solving Partial Differential equation. The algorithm can use the Singular value decomposition technique when dealing with a polynomial with floating-point arithmetic. We compare it with Brown's algorithm in two wedges: multiplication for finite fields and large integers. Results are shown in term of time computation and robustness. The proposed algorithm shows that the time accuracy of computing the reduced fractional is at the same order as the Brown algorithm for finite field and large integers when the GCD of both polynomials has a small degree and an improving when the GCD's degree increase with the degree of polynomials. Also, robustness is more dynamic when arithmetic with the floating-point operation.
Prediction of Hemodynamic Tolerance of Intermittent Hemodialysis in Critically Ill Patients: A Cohort Study
Authors: Passos Rogerio da Hora , Ribeiro Juliana Caldas , Ramos Joao Gabriel Rosa , de Melo Erica Batista dos Santos Galvão , Silveira Marcelo Augusto Duarte , Batista Paulo Benigno Pena
Published: May 2021

Background: The evaluation and management of fluid balance are key challenges when caring for critically ill patients requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT). The aim of this study was to assess the ability of clinical judgment and other variables to predict the occurrence of hypotension during intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) in critically ill patients.Methods: This was a prospective, observational, single-center study involving critically ill patients undergoing IHD. The clinical judgment of hypervolemia was determined by the managing nephrologists and critical care physicians in charge of the patients on the basis of the clinical data used to calculate the ultrafiltration volume and rate for each dialysis treatment.Results: Seventy-nine (31.9%) patients presented with hypotension during IHD. Patients were perceived as being hypervolemic in 109 (43.9%) of the cases by nephrologists and in 107 (43.1%) by intensivists. The agreement between nephrologists and intensivists was weak (kappa =0.561). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis yielded an AUC of 0.81 (95% CI 0.75 to 0.84; P < 0.0001), and a cutoff value of 70 mm for the vascular pedicle width (VPW) had the highest accuracy for the prediction of the absence of hypotension.Conclusions: The clinical judgment of hypervolemia did not predict hypotension during IHD. The high predictive ability of the VPW may assist clinicians with critical thinking.
Genetic Characteristics of Chinese Patients With Hemorrhagic Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: zhu hui , teng yongliang , Liu Jingyao
Published: May 2021

BackgroundWe investigate the clinical and genetic characteristics of hemorrhagic cerebrovascular disease in order to provide a new theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of hereditary cerebrovascular disease. Case presentationThree hereditary cerebral hemorrhage cases were analyzed retrospectively. The patients’ families were surveyed, the clinical characteristics summarized, and gene polymorphisms investigated. Among the three cases, two patients had familial cerebral cavernous hemangiomas, and genetic testing revealed a heterozygous mutation in the CCM1 gene, with a deletion of base (T) in exon 15 (c.1542delT). This mutation was also found in three family members of one proband who all had a history of cerebrovascular disease, while genetic testing was normal for the proband’s unaffected family member. The last patient had hereditary cerebral hemorrhage with amyloidosis, Finnish type, and the proband, his mother, and his daughter were found to have a heterozygous G duplicate mutation at position 100 in exon 1 of the GSN gene (c.100dupG). Conclusions﻿Future screening for genetic mutations associated with a high-risk of hereditary cerebral hemorrhage can help identify individuals at risk for this condition and thereby reduce the occurrence and progression of the disease. Such screening will further enhance the precision in preventing and treating cerebrovascular diseases.
Calprotectin in Viral Systemic Infections- COVID-19 Versus Hepatitis C Virus
Authors: Toma Letitia , Dodot Mihai , Zgura Anca , Bacalbasa Nicolae , Silaghi Andrei , Simu Razvan , Isac Teodora , Stanciu Adriana Mercan
Published: May 2021

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate differences in serum and fecal calprotectin in patients with HCV chronic hepatitis and COVID-19 infection and compare them to a control group. MethodsThis observational study was performed between April 2020 and October 2020 in a single Internal Medicine center. We determined serum and fecal calprotectin, as well as levels of transaminases, C-reactive protein, ferritin, in 25 patients with COVID-19 infection, 30 patients with active HCV chronic infection and 38 patients with cured HCV infection. ResultsSerum levels of ALT, AST, C- reactive protein and ferritin were significantly higher in patients with COVID-19 infection (mean values of 127 IU/mL, 135 IU/mL, 123 mg/L and 1034 ng/mL respectively) than in patients with active HCV infection (mean values of 68 IU/mL, 51 IU/mL, 17 mg/L and 528 ng/mL respectively ) or in patients with cured HCV infection (37 IU/mL, 29 IU/mL, 3.4 mg/L and 274 ng/mL respectively). Also, serum and fecal calprotectin had increased concentrations in patients with COVID-19 (7.3 µg/mL and 394 µg/mg) versus patients with active hepatitis (2.4 µg/mL and 217 µg/mg) and patients with cured hepatitis (1.2 µg/mL and 38 µg/mg). Values were significantly higher in patients with digestive symptoms related to COVID-19. ConclusionSerum and fecal calprotectin can be used as inflammatory markers in patients with active viral infections. In COVID-19, calprotectin concentrations can be correlated to the severity of disease, particularly in patients with digestive symptoms.
Knowledge and Practices Regarding Early Colostrum Feeding Among Mothers in Erbil Governorate: a Comparative Study
Authors: Abas Madiha M , Hasan Shukir Saleem
Published: May 2021

Background and objectives: Colostrum is the first breastfeed which is a product by the mother. it has containing high amounts and concentrations of nutrients and antibodies. Methods: A comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted in different areas in Erbil Governorate. During the period started on 2nd Jan. to the end of May. 2019. Non- probability of 400 mothers who delivered their baby by normal vaginal delivery in the hospitals were recruited. A special tool was constructed by researchers, a direct face-to-face interview was adapted. Data were collected and interpreted to the computer. A special SPSS software version 23 was used for analyzing the data, frequency, chi-square, and two tailed t-test statistical analysis was applied for the study.Results: Incorrect knowledge among Erbil city and Koy-Sanjaq city was observed, with better information among Shaqlawa mothers. Poor practices of colostrum feeding among all mothers, and found a statistically significant association between mother’s knowledge, and relay to an association between mothers’ practices. Statistically significant differences were found between Erbil city and Koy-Sanjaq city; between Shaqlawa city and Koy-Sanjaq city concerning mothers’ practices respectively, with non-statistically differences between Erbil and Shaqlawa mothers, also non-statistically significant differences between mothers’ practices in Erbil and Shaqlawa city. There are statistically differences between mothers in Erbil, Koy-Sanjaq, and between Erbil and Shaqlawa with no statistical difference between Koy-Sanjaq and Shaqlawa mothers regarding knowledge. Conclusions: The mothers in Shaqlawa city had better knowledge and all three districts were having poor practices regarding colostrum feeding.
Bone Density and Genomic Analysis Unfold Cold Adaptation Mechanisms of Extinct Inhabitants of Tierra Del Fuego
Authors: Watanabe Mikiko , Risi Renata , Tafuri Mary Anne , Silvestri Valentina , D'Andrea Daniel , Raimondo Domenico , Rea Sandra , Vincenzo Fabio Di , Profico Antonio , Tuccinardi Dario , Sciuto Rosa , Basciani Sabrina , Mariani Stefania , Lubrano Carla , Cinti Saverio , Ottini Laura , Manzi Giorgio , Gnessi Lucio
Published: May 2021

The Fuegians, extinct inhabitants of Tierra del Fuego, were an exemplary case of a cold-adapted population capable of living in extreme weather conditions without any adequate clothing, however the mechanisms of their extraordinary resistance to cold remain enigmatic. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays a crucial role in this kind of adaptation besides having a protective role on the detrimental effect of low temperatures on bone structure. Skeletal remains of 12 adult Fuegians were analyzed for bone mineral density and structure. We show that, despite the unfavorable climate, bone mineral density of Fuegians was close to that seen in BAT-expressing modern humans of temperate zones. Furthermore, we report significant differences between Fuegians and other cold-adapted populations in the frequency of the Homeobox protein Hox-C4 (HOXC4) rs190771160 variant, a gene involved in BAT differentiation, whose identified variant is predicted to upregulate HOXC4 expression. Greater BAT accumulation might therefore explain the Fuegians extreme cold-resistance and the protection of their skeletons against major cold-related damage. Our results increase our understanding of how ecological challenges have been important drivers of genetic and environmental factors interactions.
Need for additional professional psychosocial and spiritual support in patients with advanced diseases in the course of specialist palliative care – a longitudinal observational study
Authors: Ullrich Anneke , Schulz Holger , Goldbach Sven , Hollburg Wiebke , Rommel Annette , Müller Marten , Kirsch Denise , Kopplin-Förtsch Katrin , Messerer Julia , König Louise , Schulz-Kindermann Frank , Bokemeyer Carsten , Oechsle Karin
Published: May 2021

Background: We investigated the need for additional professional support and influencing factors in patients (pts) at initiation and in the course of in- and outpatient specialist palliative care (I-SPC/O-SPC). Methods: Pts entering an urban SPC network consecutively completed questionnaires on psychosocial/spiritual problems and support needs within 72 hours (T0) and within the first 6 weeks (T1) of SPC. Hierarchical linear regression analysis investigated the impact of sociodemographic / clinical variables, psychological / physical burden, social support, and SPC setting on support need. Results: 425 pts (70 years, 48% female, 91% cancer, 67% O-SPC) answered T0, and 167 T1. At T0, main problems were related to transportation, usual activities, and dependency (83-89%). At T1, most prevalent problems were again related to transportation, usual activities, and additionally light housework (82-86%). At T0, support need was highest for transportation, light housework, and usual activities (35-41%). Cross-sectional comparisons of SPC settings revealed higher problem scores in O-SPC at T0 (p=.039), but not at T1. Support need was higher in O-SPC at T0 (p<.001), but lower at T1 (p=.039). Longitudinal analyses showed a decrease of support need scores over time, independent from the SPC setting. At T0, higher distress (p=.047), anxiety/depression (p<.001), physical burden (p<.001) and I-SPC (p<.001), were associated with higher support need scores (at T1 only higher distress; p=.037).Conclusion: Need for additional professional psychosocial/spiritual support was identified in up to 40% of pts with higher need at the beginning of OSPC than of ISPC. During SPC, this need decreased in both settings, but got lower in OSPC than in ISPC over time. Psychosocial/spiritual support need was associated with not only with psychological, but also physical burden.
Molecular sexual determinants in Pistacia genus by KASP assay
Authors: Sahin Zeyneb Nur , Sahin Ezgi Cabuk , Aydin Yildiz , Uncuoglu Ahu Altinkut
Published: May 2021

I. Background: Pistacia

is kind of unisexual plant species that can take 4–5 years to initiate bearing stage of trees in terms of economic value. The fruits of species have an extreme importance in food, health and baking industry as a raw material. So, identify the individual in early juvenile period for pollination and position of trees is very crucial for growers. The objective of this study is developing markers for each Pistacia species which helps the screening the sex of plant seedling quickly before they reach reproduction stage without waiting morphological data.
II. Methods and Results:

Within the context, by using the power of KASP (Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR) assay technology as a marker screening system, we successfully discriminate 7 Pistacia species out of 8 which are P. atlantica, P. integerrima, P. khinjuk, P. mutica, P. terebinthus, P. vera and P. lentiscus. We have used a high-throughput DNA sequence read archive (SRA) to assemble a reference genome to use in our studies as de novo bioinformatics method. 4 genomic regions were sequenced with collected plant material from Antepfıstıgı Research Institute Collection Garden predominantly and 8 species were aligned intraspecifically for Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) mining. 12 SNP markers are converted to KASP markers and 5 of them (SNP-PIS-133396, SNP-PIS-167992, P-ATL-91951-565, P-INT-91951-256, P-KHI-91951-115) showed obvious allelic discrimination between male and female species. SNP-PIS-167992 and P-ATL-91951-565 were identified as best marker assays due to the allelic frequency differences in graphs which are apparent for all individuals and homozygosis/heterozygosis observed clearly. These markers could be most comprehensive for whole genus because the discriminability power of several species in once.
III. Conclusions:

As a conclusion, this study is reported first Pistacia gender discrimination by KASP, besides the precursor study for sex discrimination by KASP in plants.
Circ-GALNT16 Restrains Colorectal Cancer Progression by Enhancing the SUMOylation of hnRNPK
Authors: Peng Chaofan , Tan Yuqian , Yang Peng , Jin Kangpeng , Zhang Chuan , Peng Wen , Wang lu , Zhou Jiahui , Chen Ranran , Wang Tuo , Jin Chi , Ji Jiangzhou , Feng Yifei , Tang Junwei , Sun Yueming
Published: May 2021

BackgroundEmerging studies have investigated circRNAs as significant regulation factors in multiple cancer progression. Nevertheless, the biological functions and underlying mechanisms of circRNAs in colorectal cancer progression remain unclear.MethodsA novel circRNA (circ-GALNT16) was identified by microarray and qRT-PCR. A series of phenotype experiments in vitro and vivo were performed to investigate the role of circ-GALNT16 in CRC. FISH, RNA pulldown assay, RIP assay, RNA sequencing, coimmunoprecipitation, and ChIP were constructed to explore the molecular mechanisms of circ-GALNT16 in colorectal cancer.ResultsCirc-GALNT16 was downregulated in colorectal cancer and negatively correlated with poor prognosis. Circ-GALNT16 suppressed the proliferation and metastasis ability of colorectal cancer in vitro and vivo. Mechanistically, circ-GALNT16 could bind to the KH3 domain of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK), which resulted in the SUMOylation of hnRNPK. Additionally, circ-GALNT16 could enhance the hnRNPK-p53 complex by facilitating the SUMOylation of hnRNPK. Furthermore, RNA sequencing assay identified serpin family E member 1 as the target gene of circ-GALNT16 at the transcriptional level. Rescue assays revealed that circ-GALNT16 regulated the expression of Serpine1 by inhibiting the deSUMOylation of hnRNPK mediated by SUMO specific peptidase 2 and then regulating the sequence-specific DNA binding ability of the hnRNPK-p53 transcriptional complex.Conclusions﻿Circ-GALNT16 suppressed CRC progression via inhibiting Serpine1 expression through adjusting the sequence-specific DNA binding ability of the SENP2-mediated hnRNPK-p53 transcriptional complex and might work as a biomarker and therapeutic target for CRC.
Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) for Postcardiotomy Cardiogenic Shock (PCCS) in Asian Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Di-huan , Sun Ming-wei , Li Ting , Yuan Ting , Zhou Ping , Zeng Jun , Wang Yu , Jiang Hua
Published: May 2021

Background Extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an important extracorporeal life support system to treat patients with postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS). But its effectiveness and safety are still inconclusive. Existing systematic reviews and meta-analysis have heterogeneity challenges such as the inclusion of different races in the same study.Objective The impact of ECMO treatment on the survival rate of Asian adult patients with PCCS was evaluated by searching the literature and using the method of systematic review and meta-analysis.Study Design and Methods PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CNKI, WANFANG MED ONLINE, SinoMed were searched to find relevant research on the use of ECMO on PCCS patients in Asia. Outcomes included survival rate to hospital discharge, long-term survival rate, complications.Results A total of 32 articles were selected, including observational studies and one RCT, involving China and Japan covering 4,278 PCCS patients. The pooled rate of survival to hospital discharge was 43.0% (95% CI 38% ~47%, I2 = 87%), the pooled 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year survival rate were 34% (95% CI 26% ~ 42%, I2 = 85%), 29% (95% CI 18% ~39%, I2 = 93%), 25% (95%CI 16% ~35%, I2=93%). The pooled rate of bleeding, neurologic complications, rethoracotomy, leg ischemia, renal failure, renal replacement therapy, and infection were 18% (95% CI 13% ~24%, I2=91%), 13% (95% CI 9% ~17%, I2 = 90.0%), 36% (95% CI 27% ~46%, I2 = 97.0%), 11% (95% CI 9% ~13%, I2 = 55%), 40% (95% CI 27% ~54%, I2 = 90%), 45% (95% CI 35% ~ 56%, I2 = 98%), 26% (95%CI (20%~31%, I2=95%).Conclusion ECMO can provide survival benefits for Asian adult patients with PCCS. However, attention should be paid to reducing the incidence of complications, especially renal failure. More high-quality clinical studies are needed to confirm the survival benefit of ECMO.
Atovaquone-HSA Nano-drugs Enhance the Efficacy of PD-1 Blockade Immunotherapy by Improving Hypoxic Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Wang Simeng , Zhou Xinrui , Zeng Zekun , Sui Mengjun , Chen Lihong , Feng Chao , Huang Chen , Yang Qi , Ji Meiju , Hou Peng
Published: May 2021

Background: Hypoxia is inherent character of most solid malignancies, leading to the failure of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Atovaquone, an anti-malaria drug, can alleviate tumor hypoxia by inhibiting mitochondrial complex Ⅲ activity. The present study exploits atovaquone/albumin nanoparticles to improve bioavailability and tumor targeting of atovaquone, enhancing the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy by normalizing tumor hypoxia.Methods: We prepared atovaquone-loaded human serum albumin (HSA) nanoparticles stabilized by intramolecular disulfide bonds, termed HSA-ATO NPs. The average size and zeta potential of HSA-ATO NPs were measured by particle size analyzer. The morphology of HSA-ATO NPs was characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM). The bioavailability and safety of HSA-ATO NPs were assessed by animal experiments. Immunofluorescence and ELISA assays were used to evaluate tumor immune microenvironment.Results: Our data first verified that atovaquone effectively alleviated tumor hypoxia by inhibiting mitochondrial activity both in vitro and in vivo, and successfully encapsulated atovaquone in vesicle with albumin, forming HSA-ATO NPs of approximately 164 nm in diameter. We then demonstrated that the HSA-ATO NPs possessed excellent bioavailability, tumor targeting and a highly favorable biosafety profile. When combined with anti-PD-1 antibody, we observed that HSA-ATO NPs strongly enhanced the response of mice bearing tumor xenografts to immunotherapy. Mechanistically, HSA-ATO NPs promoted intratumoral CD8+ T cell recruitment by improving tumor hypoxia microenvironment, thereby enhancing the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Conclusion: Our data provide strong evidences showing that HSA-ATO NPs can serve as safe and effective nano-drugs to enhance cancer immunotherapy by improving hypoxic tumor microenvironment.
Low Dosage and Long-Term Use of Cyclophosphamide Improve the Survival of Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Hussenbocus Yoosuf Ali Ashraf Muhammad , Jin Ziyi , Pan Wenyou , Liu Lin , Wu Min , Hu Huaixia , Ding Xiang , Wei Hua , Zou Yaohong , Qian Xian , Wang Meimei , Wu Jian , Tao Juan , Tan Jun , Da Zhanyun , Zhang Miaojia , Li Jing , Feng Xuebing , Sun Lingyun
Published: May 2021

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is an alkylating agent used in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) for its potent immunosuppression effect. Many aspects of the use of CTX in SLE have been previously studied. However, its relation to mortality in SLE had rarely been mentioned. Thus we investigate the effect of cyclophosphamide on organ involvements and the overall and cause-specific mortality of SLE patients.Methods: Information about CTX prescription were taken from medical records in the Jiangsu Lupus database that was set up to collect data from SLE patients since their first admission during 1999-2009 in Jiangsu province, China. Follow- up studies were carried out in 2010 and 2015 to check the survival status of the patients. Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI. Kaplan-Meier model was used to assess the effect of CTX on mortality between organ involvements and non-involvements.Results: There were 221 deaths observed out of 2446 SLE patients. CTX users showed a lower mortality of SLE (8.4%) with adjusted HR (95% CI) of 0.74 (0.56-0.97), as compared to non-users. A decreased in overall mortality of SLE in low daily dosage of CTX, with adjusted HR (95% CI) of 0.54 (0.36-0.81) and a significant dose-response pattern (P = 0.004) between overall mortality of SLE and long-term use of CTX with adjusted HR (95% CI) 0.53 (0.35-0.80) were observed. In cause-specific mortality analyses, protective effective of CTX was found to be insignificant. However, CTX could eliminate the differences in mortality between organ involvement and non-involvement, including renal, neuropsychiatric, cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal and hematological involvements.Conclusion: Low daily dosage and long-term use of CTX lowers the risk of overall mortality of SLE. CTX might improve the survival of patients with renal, neuropsychiatric, cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal and hematological involvements.
Human Cytomegalovirus mir-UL70-3p downregulates the H2O2 induced apoptosis in HEK293T cells by targeting the Modulator of Apoptosis-1 (MOAP1)
Authors: Pandeya Abhishek , Mishra Anup , Khalko Raj Kumar , Singh Sukhveer , Singh Nishant , Yadav Sanjay , Saha Sudipta , Saxena Sangeeta , Gosipatala Sunil Babu
Published: May 2021

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a prototypic member of the Beta-herpesvirinae subfamily, mainly responsible for congenital disabilities in newborns, cause opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals. Its seroprevalence varies across the globe ranging from 50–70 percent in developed countries to 90–100 percent in developing countries. Causing latent infections in the immunocompetent host suggests that it employs several strategies to escape the wrath of the host’s antiviral mechanisms. Apoptosis is an innate cellular response to viral infection, and downregulation of this mechanism by HCMV is a well-established phenomenon. HCMV utilizes its proteins, RNA and miRNA in regulating this response to establish a productive infection in the host. The role of HCMV miRNAs on cellular apoptosis is very interesting, where some miRNAs downregulate but a few upregulate this process. In the present study, we report the antiapoptotic activity of HCMV miRNA, miR-UL-70-3p, on H2O2 induced apoptosis in HEK293T cells. The ectopic expression of this HCMV miRNA in HEK293T cells downregulate the apoptosis, and continuing studies reveal that the proapoptotic gene, Modulator of Apoptosis Protein-1 (MOAP1), is a functional target for this miRNA. We verified the functionality of the binding site predicted in the 3'UTR of MOAP1 in our earlier studies through dual luciferase-based assays using both the wild and mutant 3'UTR’s of MOAP1. The MOAP1 protein levels were significantly downregulated by the miR-UL70-3p, suggesting that the MOAP1 mRNA was degraded after binding with the miR-UL70-3p. Further, the extent of MOAP1 mRNA and its protein inhibitions by HCMV miR-UL70-3p and siRNA of MOAP1 were compared and found that the siRNA of MOAP1 inhibits 69.52 percent of mRNA and 35.67 percent of MOAP1 protein; while the miR-UL70-3p inhibits 46.66 percent MOAP1 mRNA and 21.05 percent MOAP1 protein. Though the inhibitory activity of miR-UL70-3p is not equal to the siRNA of MOAP1, but it was significant enough in reversing the H2O2 induced apoptosis in HEK293T cells. These results confirm that hcmv-miR-UL70-3p downregulates H2O2 induced apoptosis in HEK293T cells by targeting the 3'UTR of MOAP1 mRNA.
Tumor microenviromental reaction would diminish incomparable accuracy and swiftness of flow cytometric diagnosis of primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Takeuchi Hayato , Inaba Tohru , Shishido-Hara Yukiko , Tsukamoto Taku , Mizutani Shinsuke , Okamoto Takanari , Tanigawa Seisuke , Yamanaka Takumi , Takahashi Yoshinobu , Konishi Eiichi , Kuroda Junya , Hashimoto Naoya
Published: May 2021

Background

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), a relatively rare brain tumor, bears a dire prognosis. On occasion, rapid progression of the tumor makes immediate diagnosis and initiation of therapy imperative. To achieve swift diagnosis, we adopt flow cytometry (FCM) in addition to conventional histopathology. The aim of this study is to reveal utility and drawbacks of FCM diagnosis for PCNSL.
Methods

Patients with suspected PCNSL on neuroradiological findings and received both FCM and histological diagnosis between August 2015 and April 2020 were retrospectively enrolled into the study. Tumor samples were collected by craniotomy with either of endoscope or microscope. The patients’ electronic medical records were investigated, and histological findings, results of FCM, and other clinical data were evaluated.
Results

Twenty seven patients met the eligibility criteria. Twenty three patients (11 males and 12 females) were diagnosed with PCNSL by histological confirmation, and 22 cases were B-cell type lymphoma and 1 was T-cell type. Median age at diagnosis was 65. FCM analysis showed lymphoma pattern in 20 cases, but in the other 3 lymphoma cases (FCM discordant: FCM-D) and 4 non-lymphomatous tumor cases, FCM results did not show lymphoma pattern (sensitivity: 86.4%, specificity: 100%). Analysis of FCM-D cases showed infiltration of T lymphocytes or astrocytes into the tumor tissue, indicating tumor microenvironmental reaction, were observed, and it is assumed that those reactions deceived FCM diagnosis.
Conclusions

Despite some disadvantages, diagnosis of PCNSL by FCM is rapid and reliable.
The Complete Mitogenome of Curculio Chinensis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Curculioninae): Structural Characterization and Phylogenetic Implication
Authors: Yang Zaihua , Hu Kai , Zhang Niannian
Published: May 2021

To explore the phylogenetic position of Curculio chinensis Chevrolat, 1878 and phylogenetic relationships among major lineages of the family Curculionidae, we sequenced and annotated this mitogenome. The mitogenome is 18,680 bp in length, and includes the 37 typical mitochondrial genes and a large control region (length: 1,997 bp). Mitogenome organization, nucleotide composition, and codon usage are similar to most of the previously sequenced Curculioninae mitogenomes. All 13 protein-coding genes use ATN or TTG as start codon, and end with TAA/G or incomplete stop codons (single T-). Twenty-one transfer RNA genes have the typical clover-leaf structures, while the dihydrouridine (DHU) arm of trnS1 is missing. In Curculioninae mitogenomes, the size and number of tandem repeats in the control region are highly variable. Both ML and BI analyses based on the 13 PCGs and two rRNAs from 91 species of Coleoptera strongly supported the monophyly of Curculionidae and three of the included subfamilies (Platypodinae, Dryophthorinae, and Cryptorhynchinae) plus the sister relationship between Platypodinae and Dryophthorinae. Additionally, the monophyly of the genus Curculio was recovered with strong support.
A Novel Monoclonal Antibody to PL2L60 is Effective For Therapy of Various Types of Cancers in Human and Mice
Authors: Lu Hong-Min , Fu Yu-Jie , Liu Ning , Xia Wu-Yan , Chen Hai-Yan , Liu Meng-Yao , Li Lin-Feng , Gao Jian-Xin
Published: May 2021

Background: PL2L60 is a PIWIL2-like (PL2L) protein that is specifically and widely expressed in various types of hematopoietic and solid tumors. However, it is unknown whether PL2L60 is an effective target for cancer immunotherapy. The current study aimed to investigate the efficacy of an monoclonal antibody (mAb) to PL2L60 (clone KAO3；IgM isotype) in treatment of the cancers either from human or mouse.Methods: The expression of PL2L60 protein in the cell surface and cytoplasm were determined in a panel of human and mouse tumor cell lines by flow cytometry, immunofluorescent staining and Western Blotting. The apoptosis and the cell cycle arrest of the tumor cells treated with mAb KAO3 were evaluated by flow cytometry. The tumorigenesis of the mAb KAO3-pretreated tumor cells was determined by tumor incidence and tumor size, and efficacy of mAb KAO3 treatment on tumor growth in tumors-bearing mice were kinetically evaluated. Complement-dependent cytotoxicity tests were utilized to determine the mechanism of mAb KAO3 killing tumor cells. Results: Treatment of human or mouse tumor cells with mAb KAO3 at the time of inoculation efficiently inhibited their tumorigenesis in the immunodeficient mice. Moreover, injection of mAb KAO3 into established tumors significantly inhibited their growth, and prolonged survival of the tumor-bearing mice, including lymphoma, breast cancer, lung cancer and cervical cancer. The inhibitory effects of mAb KAO3 were likely associated with its binding to the PL2L60 expressed on tumor cell surface, which may induce cell apoptosis through either activation of complement or blocking cell cycling. The cell cycling was arrested at G2/M phase and DNA synthesis may be inhibited.Conclusion: We have identified the PL2L60 as a novel tumor-specific and broad-spectral biomarker, which is recognized by the mAb KAO3 as an efficient target for immunotherapy of both solid and hematopoietic cancers.