bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Melatonin on Osteogenic Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Inflammatory Environment by Regulating Mammalian Target of Rapamycin/Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Protein Kinase B Signaling
Authors: Zhang Chi , Wang Yuanhe , Sun Kang , Yu Dingzhu , Tian Shaoqi
Published: June 2021

Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) differentiation into special cell types is affected by inflammation. Melatonin has various effects such as anti-oxidation and immune regulation. However, melatonin’s effect on BMSCs osteogenic differentiation during inflammation has not been elucidated. Rat BMSCs were isolated and assigned into control group, inflammation group (1 μg/ml lipopolysaccharide, LPS) and melatonin group (100 μM melatonin was added to LPSstimulated BMSCs cells) followed by analysis of BMSCs proliferation by MTT assay, Caspase 3 and ALP activity, expression of Runx2 and OP by Real time PCR, ROS content and SOD activity, TNF-α and IL-1β secretion by ELISA and mTOR/PI3K/AKT signaling protein level by Western blot. LPS action on BMSCs significantly inhibits BMSCs proliferation, promotes Caspase 3 activity, inhibits ALP activity, decreases Runx2 and OP expression and SOD activity, increases ROS content and TNF-α and IL-1β secretion as well as reduced mTOR and p-PI3K level (P <0.05). Melatonin addition significantly reversed the above changes (P <0.05). Melatonin can regulate oxidative stress, inhibit inflammation, and promote BMSCs proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in inflammatory environment by activating mTOR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Effect of TWIST1 Gene on the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Human Glioma Cell Line TJ861 by Regulating Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Fei , Hua Jiajia , Shen HongWei , Wang HongLiang
Published: June 2021

To observe TWIST1 gene expression in human glioma and study the effect human glioma cell line TJ861 on the proliferation and apoptosis, and further explore its potential mechanism to provide some reference for the targeted treatment of glioma in the future. Detection of cancer tissue
(Carcinoma tissue) in 55 patients with glioma by RT-PCR and Expression level of TWIST1 in normal and paracancerous tissues (Adjacent tissue), the human glioma cell line TJ861 was further divided into, Nonsense sequence group, (si-NS group), TWIST1 Inhibition group (si-TWIST1 group) and control
group. The glioma cells of si-NS group and si-TWIST1 group were transfected with nonsense sequence and TWIST1 siRNA respectively by liposome transfection technology. Use CCK8 assay to test the cell proliferation ability of each group at 0, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 hours; 48 hours after siRNA
transfection, The ability of DNA replication in each group was detected by EdU staining; Apoptosis related protein expression, in each group, was analyzed by Western blot; TUNEL staining was used to test the apoptosis rate of each group; In the end, We studied TWIST1 effect knocking down on
mTOR protein expression in human glioma cells and mTOR protein expression in cancer and adjacent tissues. TWIST1 expression in glioma cells was higher, compared with normal tissues (P <0.05); After transfection of TWIST1 siRNA into human glioma cell line TJ861 in vitro, CCK8
showed glioma cells proliferation ability in si-TWIST1 group at 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 hours was lower, compared with the control group (P <0.05); After siRNA transfection at 48 hours, the DNA replication ability of glioma cells decreased significantly (P <0.05) with EdU
staining; The inhibition of TWIST1 increased Bax expression in glioma cells, and inhibited Bcl-2 expression (P < 0.05) with Western blot; TUNEL staining further confirmed that the apoptosis level of glioma cells in the si-TWIST1 group was higher, compared with the control group (P
<0.05). Finally, we found that mTOR protein expression in glioma was higher, compared with adjacent tissues. in vitro experiments showed that mTOR expression in glioma cells was decreased after the inhibition of TWIST1 (P <0.05). TWIST1 expression level in glioma was increased.
The inhibition of TWIST1 inhibits the proliferation of glioma by blocking the mTOR signal pathway, and promote the apoptosis of glioma.
Assessment of Preoperative Functional Status Prior to Major Head and Neck Surgery: A Pilot Study
Authors: Miller Ashley L. , Holcomb Andrew J. , Parikh Anuraag S. , Richards Julianne M. , Rathi Vinay K. , Goldfarb Jeremy W. , Remenschneider Aaron K. , Bergmark Regan W. , Annino Donald J. , Goguen Laura A. , Rettig Eleni M. , Deschler Daniel G. , Emerick Kevin S. , Lin Derrick T. , Richmon Jeremy D. , Chan Chiao‐Li , Min Lillian C. , Uppaluri Ravindra , Varvares Mark A.
Published: June 2021

Objective

To demonstrate feasibility of a recently developed preoperative assessment tool, the Vulnerable Elders Surgical Pathways and Outcomes Analysis (VESPA), to characterize the baseline functional status of patients undergoing major head and neck surgery and to examine the relationship between preoperative functional status and postoperative outcomes.

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

Two tertiary care academic hospitals.

Methods

The VESPA was administered prospectively in the preoperative setting. Data on patient demographics, ablative and reconstructive procedures, and outcomes including total length of stay, discharge disposition, delay in discharge, or complex discharge planning (delay or change in disposition) were collected via retrospective chart review. VESPA scores were calculated and risk categories were used to estimate risk of adverse postoperative outcomes using multivariate logistic regression for categorical outcomes and linear regression for continuous variables.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients met study inclusion criteria. The mean (SD) age was 66.4 (11.9) years, and 58.4% of patients were male. Nearly one‐fourth described preoperative difficulty in either a basic or instrumental activity of daily living, and 17% were classified as low functional status (ie, high risk) according to the VESPA. Low functional status did not independently predict length of stay but was associated with delayed discharge (odds ratio [OR], 5.0; 95% CI, 1.2‐21.3; P =. 030) and complex discharge planning (OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 1.34‐24.2; P =. 018).

Conclusion

The VESPA can identify major head and neck surgical patients with low preoperative functional status who may be at risk for delayed or complex discharge planning. These patients may benefit from enhanced preoperative counseling and more comprehensive discharge preparation.
Influence of Age and Sex on Clinical and Therapeutic Features of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Authors: Lechien Jerome R. , Carroll Thomas L. , Bobin Francois , Muls Vinciane , Rodriguez Alexandra , Horoi Mihaela , Dequanter Didier , Crevier‐Buchman Lise , Hans Stéphane , Saussez Sven
Published: June 2021

Objective

To explore the influence of age and sex on the clinical presentation and therapeutic response of patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Study Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Prospective multicenter study of 271 patients with a diagnosis of LPR confirmed by impedance‐pH monitoring.

Methods

Patients were prescribed 6 months of diet changes and a combination of pantoprazole and/or alginate depending on the results of their impedance‐pH results. The Reflux Symptom Score (RSS) and Reflux Sign Assessment (RSA) were collected at baseline and at 3 and 6 months posttreatment. Data were explored according to sex and age.

Results

A total of 237 patients completed the evaluations (138 females). On the RSS, patients of the oldest group (>60 years) had lower symptom scores (throat pain, ear pain, odynophagia, chest pain, tongue burning, nausea, halitosis, and indigestion) and lower quality‐of‐life scores than younger individuals. RSS and RSA outcomes significantly improved from pretreatment to 3 months posttreatment in all groups. Scores on the RSS and RSA continued to improve from 3 to 6 months posttreatment in the elderly group. Females with LPR had a higher score on the RSS at baseline as compared with males. On the RSS, scores significantly improved after 3 months in males and females; however, they continued to improve from 3 to 6 months in the female group.

Conclusion

Age and sex may influence the clinical presentation and pre‐ to posttreatment evolution of symptoms and findings. Age and sex differences could be considered in future therapeutic approaches to guide more effective personalized treatment plans for patients with LPR.
The Evolving Role of Advanced Practice Providers in Otolaryngology: Improving Patient Access and Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Yalamanchi Pratyusha , Blythe Meredith , Gidley Kristi S. , Blythe William R. , Waguespack Richard W. , Brenner Michael J.
Published: June 2021

The aging US population requires an increasing volume of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery services, yet the otolaryngologist physician workforce remains static. Advanced practice providers (APPs), including physician assistants and nurse practitioners, improve access across the continuum of primary and subspecialty health care. The rapid growth of APP service is evidenced by a 51% increase in APP Medicare billing for otolaryngology procedures over 5 years. APPs increasingly participate in delivering otolaryngology care; however, reaping the benefits of enhanced patient access and modernizing care delivery is predicated on successful integration of APPs into practices. Few data are available on how best to incorporate APPs into team‐based models or how to restructure practices to allow graduated responsibility that supports autonomy and effective teamwork. We compare national APP and physician workforce trends in otolaryngology, consider approaches to optimizing efficiency by integrating APPs, and identify opportunities for improving data collection and practice.
Facilitators of probation-based domestic violence perpetrator programmes: ‘Who’s in the room?’
Authors: Renehan Nicole
Published: June 2021

The role that probation practitioners play in the desistance process has begun to receive much needed attention. Yet, the experiences of facilitators of probation-based, domestic violence perpetrator programmes have long been neglected. This article explores the experiences and wellbeing of eight facilitators from one cohort of the Building Better Relationships (BBR) programme in England. Drawing upon five-months’ observations and in-depth interviews, I demonstrate how working with domestically violent men with insufficient knowledge, experience, or support, exacerbated within the context of Transforming Rehabilitation reforms, impacted significantly on facilitator well-being, professional identities, and practice. Practice implications are discussed.
If you do not deign to quantify, someone else will do it for you: In support of a balanced approach to the evaluation of science
Authors: Lizotte Mathieu
Published: June 2021

This is a commentary in support of Olof Hallonsten’s historical-sociological argument for countering the growing distrust and governance of science. From this starting point, the problem of quantification in the evaluation of science is addressed and several examples of the unintended consequences of the currently available metrics are discussed. In particular, the issue of quantification is discussed in regard to the modality of scientific research, power and research and the peer relationship. Although in approval with Hallonsten’s argument for reversing the burden of proof, reasonable skepticism is expressed regarding the persuasiveness that this counter-rhetoric will have on members of parliament, public servants and university administrators. If this long-term goal is to be accomplished, it is argued that concrete actions must be pursued in the short and medium term. In this spirit, several suggestions are formulated to further this agenda, most notably greater support for intellectual diversity, greater participation and readership in science studies by science practitioners and the promotion of the comparative approach for understanding the different ways that metrics are actually used in practice. Finally, I argue that the refusal of participating in the quantification of science is bound to hinder applied critical thinking and will most likely and regrettably exacerbate its current perverse effects.
Microstructure and fatigue behaviour of spin-arc welded AISI C1018 low carbon steel
Authors: Parthiban K , Mohan Kumar S , Rajesh Kannan A , Siva Shanmugam N , Sankaranarayanasamy K
Published: June 2021

This work investigates the fatigue performance of 10 mm AISI C1018 low carbon steel plates welded with ER70S-6 using a gas metal arc welding-based spin-arc welding process. Welded joint microstructure is characterized by bainite, acicular ferrite, and allotriomorphic ferrite along with pearlite in the ferritic matrix. The tensile strength of the weld metal was comparable with base metal and meets the mechanical property requirements in accordance with the ASTM A311/A311M-04 (2020) standard. The fatigue strengths of base metal and weld metal are 121 and 126 MPa, respectively, after sustaining 106 cycles. During cyclic loading, fracture surfaces were distinctly noticed as the crack initiation, crack propagation, and final rupture regions. The decrease in alternating stress increased the fatigue cycles to final rupture, and the nature of fatigue fracture was ductile with dimples and voids.
Thermomechanical postbuckling of higher order shear deformable CNT-reinforced composite plates with elastically restrained unloaded edges
Authors: Trang Le Thi Nhu , Van Tung Hoang
Published: June 2021

Buckling and postbuckling behavior of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced thick composite plates resting on elastic foundations and subjected to thermomechanical loads are investigated in this paper. The plates are subjected to uniform uniaxial compression in a thermal environment or the combined action of nondestabilizing preexisting uniaxial compression and uniform temperature rise. CNTs are reinforced into matrix through functionally graded distributions. The properties of constitutive materials are assumed to be temperature dependent and effective properties of CNT-reinforced composite are determined according to an extended rule of mixture. Governing equations are based on a higher order shear deformation theory taking von Kárman nonlinearity, initial geometrical imperfection, elasticity of tangential restraints of unloaded edges and plate-foundation interaction into consideration. Analytical solutions are assumed to satisfy simply supported boundary conditions and Galerkin method is applied to obtain nonlinear load-deflection relations. Numerical analyses are carried out to show the effects of CNT distribution patterns, preexisting loads, initial imperfection, degree of in-plane constraint, and elastic foundations on the nonlinear thermomechanical stability of CNT-reinforced composite plates.
Predictors of Lymph Node Metastasis in Siewert Type II T1 Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagogastric Junction: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Chen Liubo , Tang Kejun , Wang Sihan , Chen Dongdong , Ding Kefeng
Published: June 2021

Background:

Endoscopic resection has been introduced as an alternative treatment for superficial adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG), but is limited by positive nodal status. We aimed to investigate the predictors of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in patients with Siewert type II T1 AEG.

Methods:

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was used to identify eligible patients with Siewert type II T1 AEG. The prevalence of LNM was assessed. Logistic regression analysis with multivariable adjustment was used to determine predictors of LNM. We also performed Cox regression analysis to examine the prognostic value of LNM, which was further confirmed by competing risk analysis and cumulative incidence function (CIF).

Results:

In total, 2651 patients with T1 AEG were included, with a median age of 69 years and a median follow-up of 28 months. The overall prevalence of LNM was 17.2% in T1 AEG. When stratified by tumor invasion depth, the prevalence of LNM was 8.5% for intramucosal tumors and 22.6% for submucosal tumors. Adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that age, sex, tumor grade, tumor size and tumor infiltration depth were independent predictors of LNM in T1 AEG. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that positive nodal status was significantly associated with worse overall survival and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Subgroup analysis consistently demonstrated that patients with LNM had significantly poorer CSS than those without LNM in most subgroups. Finally, the CIF was calculated, showing that patients with LNM had a significantly higher cancer-specific death rate than those without LNM.

Conclusions:

This population-based study identified age, sex, tumor grade, tumor infiltration depth and tumor size as independent predictors of LNM in T1 AEG. Considering the high prevalence of LNM in T1 AEG, endoscopic resection for curative aims may only be introduced in patients without high risks of LNM.
The Experience of Learning to Drive for People With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Vindin Priscilla , Wilson Nathan J. , Lee Hoe , Cordier Reinie
Published: June 2021

Gaining a driver’s license can be difficult for student drivers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet little is known about their experiences of learning to drive. In this qualitative study, focus groups and individual interviews were employed to ascertain the perceptions of three participant groups, including people with ASD, parents of people with ASD, and driving instructors with experience teaching people with ASD to drive. Participants in each group were asked to discuss their feelings, concerns, and barriers encountered while learning to drive, along with the driving behaviors, challenges, and strategies used when supporting people with ASD to learn to drive. Grounded theory analysis was used to shed light on the experience of learning to drive for people with ASD. Five themes emerged supporting the core construct that targeted support ameliorates intrinsic driving complexities, generating success: (a) challenges that increase the complexity of learning to drive, (b) external challenges to overcome, (c) concerns about the reality of driving, (d) the need for a specialized model of training, and (e) success is possible. These findings highlight the importance of developing an autism-specific driving training intervention designed for people with ASD, their families, and driving instructors.
Reconstructing Draft Genomes Using Genome Resolved Metagenomics Reveal Arsenic Metabolizing Genes and Secondary Metabolites in Fresh Water Lake in Eastern India
Authors: Ghosh Samrat , Sarangi Aditya Narayan , Mukherjee Mayuri , Singh Deeksha , Madhavi Madduluri , Tripathy Sucheta
Published: June 2021

Rabindra Sarovar lake is an artificial freshwater lake in the arsenic infested eastern region of India. In this study, using the genome resolved metagenomics approach; we have deciphered the taxonomic diversity as well as the functional insights of the gene pools specific to this region. Initially, a total of 113 Metagenome Assembled Genomes (MAGs) were recovered from the two predominant seasons, that is, rainy (n = 50) and winter (n = 63). After bin refinement and de-replication, 27 MAGs (18 from Winter season and 9 from Rainy season) were reconstructed. These MAGs were either of high-quality (n = 10) or of medium quality (n = 17) that was determined based on genome completeness and contamination. These 27 MAGs spanning across 6 bacterial phyla and the most predominant ones were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Cyanobacteria regardless of the season. Functional annotation across the MAGs suggested the existence of all known types of arsenic resistance and metabolism genes. Besides, important secondary metabolites such as zoocin_A, prochlorosin, and microcin were also abundantly present in these genomes. The metagenomic study of this lake provides the first insights into the microbiome composition and functional classification of the gene pools in two predominant seasons. The presence of arsenic metabolism and resistance genes in the recovered genomes is a sign of adaptation of the microbes to the arsenic contamination in this region. The presence of secondary metabolite genes in the lake microbiome has several implications including the potential use of these for the pharmaceutical industry.
Positive, Negative or Both? Assessing Emotional Appeals Effectiveness in Anti-Drink Driving Advertisements
Authors: Yousef Murooj , Dietrich Timo , Torrisi Geraldine
Published: June 2021

Background:

The use of advertising to influence social behavior is one element of social marketing campaigns. While it is known that informational appeals are less effective in changing social perceptions and behaviors, the literature presents mixed and inconsistent results of which appeal (i.e. positive negative or both) is more effective in changing social behavior. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of positive, negative and a combination of both appeals on young adults’ drink driving perceptions.

Focus:

This article is related to research and evaluation of the social marketing field.

Research Question:

Which, if any, of positive, negative or combination of both emotional appeals, is most effective in changing young adults’ drink driving attitudes, norms and intentions and how well do intentions explain behavior?

Importance to the Field:

The study builds on, and extends previous research exploring the effectiveness of emotional appeals, contributing to the literature by exploring both emotional appeals along the testing of each appeal separately. The research also validates the TRA’s utility beyond previously explored contexts. At a practical level, the research informs the work of advertising message design. It is recommended that, social marketers consider combined emotional appeals approach when designing messages.

Methods:

Respondents were randomly exposed to one of three emotional appeals (positive, negative or both) and asked to complete a questionnaire about their attitudes, norms and intentions to drink drive before and after exposure. Two analyses were used, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling to validate the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), and paired sample t-tests to assess change of perceptions over time between the three groups.

Results:

First the study found the TRA to have a strong predictive utility in explaining drink driving intentions. Second, the combination of both positive and negative emotional appeals was found more effective in changing drink driving attitudes, norms and intentions of young adults.

Recommendations for Research or Practice:

The study recommends that, social marketers consider combined emotional appeals approach when designing messages. However, further investigation is required to confirm this recommendation and as in any campaign, pre-testing the advertisements with the target audience is a must.

Limitations:

The key limitations of the study include the use of non-probability sampling, self-reported data, and varied exposure times. Future research should utilize autonomic measures to accurately assess perceptions and emotions as well as unifying the time of exposure for all emotional appeals.
A practical example of an open disclosure process for people with intellectual disabilities in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Mullally Feabhra , Corby Deirdre
Published: June 2021

Literature pertaining to open disclosure predominantly refers to acute care settings; this is the case in, for example, the UK, Republic of Ireland, Australia, Korea and the USA. There is, however, a dearth of literature regarding open disclosure related to people with intellectual disabilities. A practice example of open disclosure is presented here, following a serious adverse event in an organisation supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. The aim of the process was to openly disclose in a meaningful way to adults with significant intellectual disabilities and communication difficulties. An apology pathway was developed by a multidisciplinary team based on individual communication needs. A suite of resources was developed including easy read-picture agendas and sign language to support increased understanding of the apology. Service users received the apology first, followed by meetings with their families. This practice example has positive implications for service providers for people with intellectual disabilities.
Dispersal ability, habitat characteristics, and sea-surface circulation shape population structure of Cingula trifasciata (Gastropoda: Rissoidae) in the remote Azores Archipelago
Authors: Baptista L. , Meimberg H. , Ávila S. P. , Santos A. M. , Curto M.
Published: June 2021

Background

In the marine realm, dispersal ability is among the major factors shaping the distribution of species. In the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, the Azores Archipelago is home to a multitude of marine invertebrates which, despite their dispersal limitations, maintain gene flow among distant populations, with complex evolutionary and biogeographic implications. The mechanisms and factors underlying the population dynamics and genetic structure of non-planktotrophic gastropods within the Azores Archipelago and related mainland populations are still poorly understood. The rissoidCingula trifasciatais herewith studied to clarify its population structure in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and factors shaping it, with a special focus in intra-archipelagic dynamics.

Results

Coupling microsatellite genotyping by amplicon sequencing (SSR-GBAS) and mitochondrial datasets, our results suggest the differentiation between insular and continental populations ofCingula trifasciata, supporting previously raised classification issues and detecting potential cryptic diversity. The finding of connectivity between widely separated populations was startling. In unique ways, dispersal ability, habitat type, and small-scale oceanographic currents appear to be the key drivers ofC. trifasciata’s population structure in the remote Azores Archipelago. Dispersal as non-planktotrophic larvae is unlikely,but its small-size adults easily engage in rafting. Although the typical habitat ofC. trifasciata,with low hydrodynamics, reduces the likelihood of rafting, individuals inhabiting algal mats are more prone to dispersal. Sea-surface circulation might create dispersal pathways for rafts, even between widely separated populations/islands.

Conclusions

Our results show that gene flow of a marine non-planktotrophic gastropod within a remote archipelago can reveal unanticipated patterns, such that the understanding of life in such areas is far from well-understood. We expect this work to be the starting of the application of SSR-GBAS in other non-model marine invertebrates, providing insights on their population dynamics at distinct geographical scales and on hidden diversity. How transversal is the role played by the complex interaction between functional traits, ecological features, and sea-surface circulation in the population structure of marine invertebrates can be further addressed by expanding this approach to more taxa.
Identification, systematic evolution and expression analyses of the AAAP gene family in Capsicum annuum
Authors: Pan Xiaoxue , Hu Mingyu , Wang Zhongwei , Guan Ling , Jiang Xiaoying , Bai Wenqin , Wu Hong , Lei Kairong
Published: June 2021

Background

The amino acid/auxin permease (AAAP) family represents a class of proteins that transport amino acids across cell membranes. Members of this family are widely distributed in different organisms and participate in processes such as growth and development and the stress response in plants. However, a systematic comprehensive analysis of AAAP genes of the pepper (Capsicum annuum) genome has not been reported.

Results

In this study, we performed systematic bioinformatics analyses to identify AAAP family genes in the C. annuum ‘Zunla-1’ genome to determine gene number, distribution, structure, duplications and expression patterns in different tissues and stress. A total of 53 CaAAAP genes were identified in the ‘Zunla-1’ pepper genome and could be divided into eight subgroups. Significant differences in gene structure and protein conserved domains were observed among the subgroups. In addition to CaGAT1, CaATL4, and CaVAAT1, the remaining CaAAAP genes were unevenly distributed on 11 of 12 chromosomes. In total, 33.96% (18/53) of the CaAAAP genes were a result of duplication events, including three pairs of genes due to segmental duplication and 12 tandem duplication events. Analyses of evolutionary patterns showed that segmental duplication of AAAPs in pepper occurred before tandem duplication. The expression profiling of the CaAAAP by transcriptomic data analysis showed distinct expression patterns in various tissues and response to different stress treatment, which further suggest that the function of CaAAAP genes has been differentiated.

Conclusions

This study of CaAAAP genes provides a theoretical basis for exploring the roles of AAAP family members in C. annuum.
Genome analysis of Pseudomonas sp. OF001 and Rubrivivax sp. A210 suggests multicopper oxidases catalyze manganese oxidation required for cylindrospermopsin transformation
Authors: Martínez-Ruiz Erika Berenice , Cooper Myriel , Barrero-Canosa Jimena , Haryono Mindia A. S. , Bessarab Irina , Williams Rohan B. H. , Szewzyk Ulrich
Published: June 2021

Background

Cylindrospermopsin is a highly persistent cyanobacterial secondary metabolite toxic to humans and other living organisms. Strain OF001 and A210 are manganese-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) able to transform cylindrospermopsin during the oxidation of Mn2+. So far, the enzymes involved in manganese oxidation in strain OF001 and A210 are unknown. Therefore, we analyze the genomes of two cylindrospermopsin-transforming MOB,Pseudomonassp. OF001 andRubrivivaxsp. A210, to identify enzymes that could catalyze the oxidation of Mn2+. We also investigated specific metabolic features related to pollutant degradation and explored the metabolic potential of these two MOB with respect to the role they may play in biotechnological applications and/or in the environment.

Results

Strain OF001 encodes two multicopper oxidases and one haem peroxidase potentially involved in Mn2+oxidation, with a high similarity to manganese-oxidizing enzymes described forPseudomonas putidaGB-1 (80, 83 and 42% respectively). Strain A210 encodes one multicopper oxidase potentially involved in Mn2+oxidation, with a high similarity (59%) to the manganese-oxidizing multicopper oxidase inLeptothrix discophoraSS-1. Strain OF001 and A210 have genes that might confer them the ability to remove aromatic compounds via the catechol meta- and ortho-cleavage pathway, respectively. Based on the genomic content, both strains may grow over a wide range of O2concentrations, including microaerophilic conditions, fix nitrogen, and reduce nitrate and sulfate in an assimilatory fashion. Moreover, the strain A210 encodes genes which may convey the ability to reduce nitrate in a dissimilatory manner, and fix carbon via the Calvin cycle. Both MOB encode CRISPR-Cas systems, several predicted genomic islands, and phage proteins, which likely contribute to their genome plasticity.

Conclusions

The genomes ofPseudomonassp. OF001 andRubrivivaxsp. A210 encode sequences with high similarity to already described MCOs which may catalyze manganese oxidation required for cylindrospermopsin transformation. Furthermore, the analysis of the general metabolism of two MOB strains may contribute to a better understanding of the niches of cylindrospermopsin-removing MOB in natural habitats and their implementation in biotechnological applications to treat water.
Genome-wide expression and network analyses of mutants in key brassinosteroid signaling genes
Authors: Seyed Rahmani Razgar , Shi Tao , Zhang Dongzhi , Gou Xiaoping , Yi Jing , Miclotte Giles , Marchal Kathleen , Li Jia
Published: June 2021

Background

Brassinosteroid (BR) signaling regulates plant growth and development in concert with other signaling pathways. Although many genes have been identified that play a role in BR signaling, the biological and functional consequences of disrupting those key BR genes still require detailed investigation.

Results

Here we performed phenotypic and transcriptomic comparisons of A. thaliana lines carrying a loss-of-function mutation in BRI1 gene, bri1–5, that exhibits a dwarf phenotype and its three activation-tag suppressor lines that were able to partially revert the bri1–5 mutant phenotype to a WS2 phenotype, namely bri1–5/bri1–1D, bri1–5/brs1–1D, and bri1–5/bak1–1D. From the three investigated bri1–5 suppressors, bri1–5/bak1–1D was the most effective suppressor at the transcriptional level. All three bri1–5 suppressors showed altered expression of the genes in the abscisic acid (ABA signaling) pathway, indicating that ABA likely contributes to the partial recovery of the wild-type phenotype in these bri1–5 suppressors. Network analysis revealed crosstalk between BR and other phytohormone signaling pathways, suggesting that interference with one hormone signaling pathway affects other hormone signaling pathways. In addition, differential expression analysis suggested the existence of a strong negative feedback from BR signaling on BR biosynthesis and also predicted that BRS1, rather than being directly involved in signaling, might be responsible for providing an optimal environment for the interaction between BRI1 and its ligand.

Conclusions

Our study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms and functions of key brassinosteroid (BR) signaling genes, especially BRS1.
Genome-wide analysis and functional characterization of the DELLA gene family associated with stress tolerance in B. napus
Authors: Sarwar Rehman , Jiang Ting , Ding Peng , Gao Yue , Tan Xiaoli , Zhu Keming
Published: June 2021

Background

Brassica napus is an essential crop for oil and livestock feed. Eventually, this crop's economic interest is at the most risk due to anthropogenic climate change. DELLA proteins constitute a significant repressor of plant growth to facilitate survival under constant stress conditions. DELLA proteins lack DNA binding domain but can interact with various transcription factors or transcription regulators of different hormonal families. Significant progress has been made on Arabidopsis and cereal plants. However, no comprehensive study regarding DELLA proteins has been delineated in rapeseed.

Results

In our study, we have identified 10 BnaDELLA genes. All of the BnaDELLA genes are closely related to five AtDELLA genes, suggesting a relative function and structure. Gene duplication and synteny relationship among Brassica. napus, Arabidopsis. thaliana, Brassica rapa, Brassica oleracea, and Brassica nigra genomes were also predicted to provide valuable insights into the BnaDELLA gene family evolutionary characteristics. Chromosomal mapping revealed the uneven distribution of BnaDELLA genes on eight chromosomes, and site-specific selection assessment proposes BnaDELLA genes purifying selection. The motifs composition in all BnaDELLA genes is inconsistent; however, every BnaDELLA gene contains 12 highly conserved motifs, encoding DELLA and GRAS domains. The two known miRNAs (bna-miR6029 and bna-miR603) targets BnaC07RGA and BnaA09GAI, were also predicted. Furthermore, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis has exhibited the BnaDELLA genes diverse expression patterns in the root, mature-silique, leaf, flower, flower-bud, stem, shoot-apex, and seed. Additionally, cis-acting element prediction shows that all BnaDELLA genes contain light, stress, and hormone-responsive elements on their promoters. The gene ontology (GO) enrichment report indicated that the BnaDELLA gene family might regulate stress responses. Combine with transcriptomic data used in this study, we detected the distinct expression patterns of BnaDELLA genes under biotic and abiotic stresses.

Conclusion

In this study, we investigate evolution feature, genomic structure, miRNAs targets, and expression pattern of the BnaDELLA gene family in B. napus, which enrich our understanding of BnaDELLA genes in B. napus and suggests modulating individual BnaDELLA expression is a promising way to intensify rapeseed stress tolerance and harvest index.
A novel gene LbHLH from the halophyte Limonium bicolor enhances salt tolerance via reducing root hair development and enhancing osmotic resistance
Authors: Wang Xi , Zhou Yingli , Xu Yanyu , Wang Baoshan , Yuan Fang
Published: June 2021

Background

Identifying genes involved in salt tolerance in the recretohalophyte Limonium bicolor could facilitate the breeding of crops with enhanced salt tolerance. Here we cloned the previously uncharacterized gene LbHLH and explored its role in salt tolerance.

Results

The 2,067-bp open reading frame of LbHLH encodes a 688-amino-acid protein with a typical helix-loop-helix (HLH) domain. In situ hybridization showed that LbHLH is expressed in salt glands of L. bicolor. LbHLH localizes to the nucleus, and LbHLH is highly expressed during salt gland development and in response to NaCl treatment. To further explore its function, we heterologously expressed LbHLH in Arabidopsis thaliana under the 35S promoter. The overexpression lines showed significantly increased trichome number and reduced root hair number. LbHLH might interact with GLABRA1 to influence trichome and root hair development, as revealed by yeast two-hybrid analysis. The transgenic lines showed higher germination percentages and longer roots than the wild type under NaCl treatment. Analysis of seedlings grown on medium containing sorbitol with the same osmotic pressure as 100 mM NaCl demonstrated that overexpressing LbHLH enhanced osmotic resistance.

Conclusion

These results indicate that LbHLH enhances salt tolerance by reducing root hair development and enhancing osmotic resistance under NaCl stress.
Intrathecal morphine versus transversus abdominis plane block for caesarean delivery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Tao-ran , He Xue-mei , Li Xue-han , Wang Ru-rong
Published: June 2021

Background

The number of caesarean deliveries has been increasing. Although intrathecal morphine (ITM) can relieve pain and is widely applied in caesarean deliveries, it is associated with many side effects. Transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB), a new analgesic technology, has also began playing a certain role after caesarean delivery, with fewer adverse effects. This study mainly compares the analgesic and adverse effects of ITM and TAPB in caesarean delivery.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science, for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published before 9 October, 2020 to compare the effects of ITM and TAPB. Primary outcome of the study was the pain score at rest 24 h after caesarean delivery, whereas the secondary outcomes were the pain score at movement 24 h after operation, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), itching, and morphine consumption. For the outcome assessment, we conducted a sensitivity analysis.

Result

Six RCTs involving 563 patients and meeting the study inclusion criteria were included in this study. Results indicated no significant difference in the pain score between ITM and TAPB at 24 h of rest or movement. The sensitivity analysis results indicated that the resting pain score (95% CI = − 1.27 to − 0.28; P = 0.002) and 24-h moving pain score (95% CI = − 1.8 to − 0.07; P = 0.03) of the ITM group were lower than those of the TAPB group. The consumption of morphine in the ITM group was lower than in the TAPB group (95% CI = 1.92 to 4.87; P < 0.00001); however, in terms of adverse reactions, the incidence of pruritus (95% CI = 1.17 to 8.26; P = 0.02) and PONV (95% CI = 1.92 to 4.87, P < 0.00001) in the ITM group was higher than in the TAPB group.

Conclusion

Parturients in the ITM and TAPB groups exhibited similar analgesic effects. However, in the sensitivity analysis performed by eliminating the studies causing heterogeneity, the ITM group was found to have superior analgesic effects compared with the TAPB group, with less morphine consumption. Differently, the TAPB group displayed less side effects such as PONV. Therefore, TAPB is still a valuable analgesia option for patients who cannot use ITM for analgesia after caesarean delivery or those having a high risk of PONV.

Trial registration

Registration number: Registered on Prospero with the registration number of CRD42020210135.
Trends in functional disability and cognitive impairment among the older adult in China up to 2060: estimates from a dynamic multi-state population model
Authors: Ansah John P. , Chiu Chi-Tsun , Wei-Yan Aloysius Chia , Min Tessa Lui Shi , Matchar David B.
Published: June 2021

Background

Available evidence suggests that cognitive impairment (CI), which leads to deficits in episodic memory, executive functions, visual attention, and language, is associated with difficulties in the capacity to perform activities of daily living. Hence any forecast of the future prevalence of functional disability should account for the likely impact of cognitive impairment on the onset of functional disability. Thus, this research aims to address this gap in literature by projecting the number of older adults in China with functional disability and cognitive impairment while accounting for the impact of cognitive impairment on the onset of functional disability.

Methods

We developed and validated a dynamic multi-state population model which simulates the population of China and tracks the transition of Chinese older adults (65 years and older) from 2010 to 2060, to and from six health states—(i) active older adults without cognitive impairment, (ii) active older adults with cognitive impairment, (iii) older adults with 1 to 2 ADL limitations, (iv) older adults with cognitive impairment and 1 to 2 ADL limitations, (v) older adults with 3 or more ADL limitations, and (vi) older adults with cognitive impairment and 3 or more ADL limitations.

Results

From 2015 to 2060, the number of older adults 65 years and older in China is projected to increase, of which the number with impairment (herein referred to as individuals with cognitive impairment and/or activity of daily living limitations) is projected to increase more than fourfold from 17·9 million (17·8–18·0) million in 2015 to 96·2 (95·3–97·1) million by 2060. Among the older adults with impairment, those with ADL limitations only is projected to increase from 3·7 million (3·6–3·7 million) in 2015 to 23·9 million (23·4–24·6 million) by 2060, with an estimated annual increase of 12·2% (12·1–12·3); while that for cognitive impairment only is estimated to increase from 11·4 million (11·3–11·5 million) in 2015 to 47·8 million (47·5–48·2 million) by 2060—this representing an annual growth of 7·07% (7·05–7·09).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest there will be an increase in demand for intermediate and long-term care services among the older adults with functional disability and cognitive impairment.
Measles outbreak in Western Uganda: a case-control study
Authors: Walekhwa Abel Wilson , Ntaro Moses , Kawungezi Peter Chris , Achangwa Chiara , Muhindo Rabbison , Baguma Emmanuel , Matte Michael , Migisha Richard , Reyes Raquel , Thompson Peyton , Boyce Ross M. , Mulogo Edgar M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Measles outbreaks are prevalent throughout sub-Saharan Africa despite the preventive measures like vaccination that target under five-year-old children and health systems strengthening efforts like prioritizing the supply chain for supplies. Measles immunization coverage for Kasese district and Bugoye HC III in 2018 was 72 and 69%, respectively. This coverage has been very low and always marked red in the Red categorization (below the national target/poor performing) on the national league table indicators. The aim of this study was to assess the scope of the 2018–2019 measles outbreak and the associated risk factors among children aged 0–60 months in Bugoye sub-county, Kasese district, western Uganda.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective unmatched case-control study among children aged 0–60 months with measles (cases) who had either a clinical presentation or a laboratory confirmation (IgM positivity) presenting at Bugoye Health Centre III (BHC) or in the surrounding communities between December 2018 and October 2019.. Caregivers of the controls (whose children did not have measles) were selected at the time of data collection in July 2020. A modified CDC case investigation form was used in data collection. Quantitative data was collected and analyzed using Microsoft excel and STATA version 13. The children’s immunization cards and health registers at BHC were reviewed to ascertain the immunization status of the children before the outbreak.

Results

An extended measles outbreak occurred in Bugoye, Uganda occured between December 2018 and October 2019. All 34 facility-based measles cases were documented to have had maculopapular rash, conjunctivitis, and cough. Also, the majority had fever (97%), coryza (94.1%), lymphadenopathy (76.5%), arthralgias (73.5%) and Koplik Spots (91.2%) as documented in the clinical registers. Similar symptoms were reported among 36 community-based cases. Getting infected even after immunized, low measles vaccination coverage were identified as the principal risk factors for this outbreak.

Conclusion

Measles is still a significant problem. This study showed that this outbreak was associated with under-vaccination. Implementing a second routine dose of measles-rubella vaccine would not only increase the number of children with at least one dose but also boost the immunity of those who had the first dose.