bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of the Wheat (Triticum aestivum) IQD Gene Family and an Expression Analysis of Candidate Genes Associated with Seed Dormancy and Germination
Authors: Liu Mingli , Wang Zhuofan , Wang Chenchen , Pan Xu , Gao Wei , Yan Shengnan , Cao Jiajia , Lu Jie , Chang Cheng , Ma Chuanxi , Zhang Haiping
Published: April 2022

The IQ67 Domain (IQD) gene family plays important roles in plant developmental processes and stress responses. Although IQDs have been characterized in model plants, little is known about their functions in wheat (Triticum aestivum), especially their roles in the regulation of seed dormancy and germination. Here, we identified 73 members of the IQD gene family from the wheat genome and phylogenetically separated them into six major groups. Gene structure and conserved domain analyses suggested that most members of each group had similar structures. A chromosome positional analysis showed that TaIQDs were unevenly located on 18 wheat chromosomes. A synteny analysis indicated that segmental duplications played significant roles in TaIQD expansion, and that the IQD gene family underwent strong purifying selection during evolution. Furthermore, a large number of hormone, light, and abiotic stress response elements were discovered in the promoters of TaIQDs, implying their functional diversity. Microarray data for 50 TaIQDs showed different expression levels in 13 wheat tissues. Transcriptome data and a quantitative real-time PCR analysis of wheat varieties with contrasting seed dormancy and germination phenotypes further revealed that seven genes (TaIQD4/-28/-32/-58/-64/-69/-71) likely participated in seed dormancy and germination through the abscisic acid-signaling pathway. The study results provide valuable information for cloning and a functional investigation of candidate genes controlling wheat seed dormancy and germination; consequently, they increase our understanding of the complex regulatory networks affecting these two traits.
STAT1 and Its Crucial Role in the Control of Viral Infections
Authors: Tolomeo Manlio , Cavalli Andrea , Cascio Antonio
Published: April 2022

The signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 protein plays a key role in the immune response against viruses and other pathogens by transducing, in the nucleus, the signal from type I, type II and type III IFNs. STAT1 activates the transcription of hundreds of genes, some of which have been well characterized for their antiviral properties. STAT1 gene deletion in mice and complete STAT1 deficiency in humans both cause rapid death from severe infections. STAT1 plays a key role in the immunoglobulin class-switch recombination through the upregulation of T-bet; it also plays a key role in the production of T-bet+ memory B cells that contribute to tissue-resident humoral memory by mounting an IgG response during re-infection. Considering the key role of STAT1 in the antiviral immune response, many viruses, including dangerous viruses such as Ebola and SARS-CoV-2, have developed different mechanisms to inhibit this transcription factor. The search for drugs capable of targeting the viral proteins implicated in both viral replication and IFN/STAT1 inhibition is important for the treatment of the most dangerous viral infections and for future viral pandemics, as shown by the clinical results obtained with Paxlovid in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.
In Vitro Antimicrobial Potential of CAPE and Caffeamide Derivatives against Oral Microbes
Authors: Shih Yin-Hwa , Hsia Shih-Min , Chiu Kuo-Chou , Wang Tong-Hong , Chien Chi-Ying , Li Po-Jung , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Shieh Tzong-Ming
Published: April 2022

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a natural component isolated from propolis and used in traditional medicine. We aimed to investigate the antimicrobial properties and action mechanism of CAPE and caffeamide derivatives (26G and 36M) against oral disease microbes. We resolved the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of 26G and 36M and their stability at different temperatures and pH. We also evaluated their effect on biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance gene expression in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Our results revealed that 26G and 36M showed the best anticancer and antimicrobial activities, respectively, compared with the other four caffeamide derivatives. Both 26G and 36M showed heat-dependent decreases in antimicrobial activity. The 36M derivative was stable irrespective of pH, whereas 26G was not stable under high pH conditions. Biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance-related gene expression were consistent with their respective phenotypes. This study provides evidence for the potential application of CAPE and caffeamide derivatives in dental medicine to cure or prevent oral diseases.
Characterization of a Human Platelet Lysate-Loaded Keratin Hydrogel for Wound Healing Applications In Vitro
Authors: Zuniga Kameel , Isaac Alisa , Christy Sean , Wrice Nicole , Mangum Lauren , Natesan Shanmugasundaram , Burnett Luke , Christy Robert , Kowalczewski Christine
Published: April 2022

One of the promising approaches to facilitate healing and regenerative capacity includes the application of growth-factor-loaded biomaterials. Human platelet lysate (hPL) derived from platelet-rich plasma through a freeze-thaw process has been used as a growth factor rich therapeutic in many regenerative applications. To provide sustained local delivery of the hPL-derived growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), the hPL can be loaded into biomaterials that do not degrade rapidly in vivo. Keratin (KSO), a strong filamentous protein found in human hair, when formulated as a hydrogel, is shown to sustain the release of drugs and promote wound healing. In the current study, we created a KSO biomaterial that spontaneously forms a hydrogel when rehydrated with hPL that is capable of controlled and sustained release of pro-regenerative molecules. Our study demonstrates that the release of hPL is controlled by changing the KSO hydrogel and hPL-loading concentrations, with hPL loading concentrations having a greater effect in changing release profiles. In addition, the 15% KSO concentration proved to form a stable hydrogel, and supported cell proliferation over 3 days without cytotoxic effects in vitro. The hPL-loaded keratin hydrogels show promise in potential applications for wound healing with the sustained release of pro-regenerative growth factors with easy tailoring of hydrogel properties.
The Secretome of Preconditioned Mesenchymal Stem Cells Drives Polarization and Reprogramming of M2a Macrophages toward an IL-10-Producing Phenotype
Authors: Holthaus Michelle , Santhakumar Nivethiha , Wahlers Thorsten , Paunel-Görgülü Adnana
Published: April 2022

The preconditioning of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been recognized as an attractive tool to improve their regenerative and immunomodulatory capacities based on their paracrine effects. In this study, we examined the potential of an MSC-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) to alter the phenotype of murine macrophages and to drive reprogramming toward an anti-inflammatory, M2-like state in vitro. We further explored the impact of MSC cytokine preconditioning on the immunosuppressive properties of the MSC secretome. The MSC-CM suppressed the expression of proinflammatory genes in murine M1 macrophages, but only the CM from preconditioned MSCs (preMSC-CM) downregulated their expression during M1 polarization. Remarkably, only the preMSC-CM significantly increased the expression of M2a-, M2b- and M2c-specific genes and proteins during M2a polarization. Further, macrophages were found to secrete high levels of anti-inflammatory IL-10. Similarly, M2a macrophages cultured in the presence of the preMSC-CM displayed an enhanced expression of M2b/M2c-specific markers, suggesting that the secretome of preMSC promotes the repolarization of M2a-like macrophages to M2b/M2c subtypes. The preMSC-CM was found to be enriched in molecules involved in M2 polarization. Additionally, a unique downregulation of extracellular matrix components was observed. Altogether, the preMSC-CM may provide an attractive strategy to dampen inflammation by suppressing the expression of proinflammatory mediators and promoting the polarization and phenotype switch of M2a cells to IL-10-secreting M2b/M2c-like macrophages.
A Monoclonal Anti-HMGB1 Antibody Attenuates Neurodegeneration in an Experimental Animal Model of Glaucoma
Authors: Tonner Henrik , Hunn Selina , Auler Nadine , Schmelter Carsten , Beutgen Vanessa M. , von Pein Harald D. , Pfeiffer Norbert , Grus Franz H.
Published: April 2022

Neuroinflammation is a crucial process for the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGC), a major characteristic of glaucoma. High expression of high-mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) plays a detrimental role in inflammatory processes and is elevated in the retinas of glaucoma patients. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of the intravitreal injection of an anti-HMGB1 monoclonal antibody (anti-HMGB1 Ab) in an experimental animal model of glaucoma. Two groups of Spraque Dawley rats received episcleral vein occlusion to chronically elevate intraocular pressure (IOP): (1) the IgG group, intravitreal injection of an unspecific IgG as a control, n = 5, and (2) the HMGB1 group, intravitreal injection of an anti-HMGB1 Ab, n = 6. IOP, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT), and the retinal flash response were monitored longitudinally. Post-mortem examinations included immunohistochemistry, microarray, and mass spectrometric analysis. RNFLT was significantly increased in the HMGB1 group compared with the IgG group (p < 0.001). RGC density showed improved neuronal cell survival in the retina in HMGB1 compared with the IgG group (p < 0.01). Mass spectrometric proteomic analysis of retinal tissue showed an increased abundance of RNA metabolism-associated heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs), such as hnRNP U, D, and H2, in animals injected with the anti-HMGB1 Ab, indicating that the application of the antibody may cause increased gene expression. Microarray analysis showed a significantly decreased expression of C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8, p < 0.05) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, p < 0.01) in the HMGB1 group. Thus, these data suggest that intravitreal injection of anti-HMGB1 Ab reduced HMGB1-dependent inflammatory signaling and mediated RGC neuroprotection.
Model-Based Underwater Image Simulation and Learning-Based Underwater Image Enhancement Method
Authors: Liu Yidan , Xu Huiping , Zhang Bing , Sun Kelin , Yang Jingchuan , Li Bo , Li Chen , Quan Xiangqian
Published: April 2022

Due to the absorption and scattering effects of light in water bodies and the non-uniformity and insufficiency of artificial illumination, underwater images often present various degradation problems, impacting their utility in underwater applications. In this paper, we propose a model-based underwater image simulation and learning-based underwater image enhancement method for coping with various degradation problems in underwater images. We first derive a simplified model for describing various degradation problems in underwater images, then propose a model-based image simulation method that can generate images with a wide range of parameter values. The proposed image simulation method also comes with an image-selection part, which helps to prune the simulation dataset so that it can serve as a training set for learning to enhance the targeted underwater images. Afterwards, we propose a convolutional neural network based on the encoder-decoder backbone to learn to enhance various underwater images from the simulated images. Experiments on simulated and real underwater images with different degradation problems demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed underwater image simulation and enhancement method, and reveal the advantages of the proposed method in comparison with many state-of-the-art methods.
Assessing Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for Evaluation of Aedes aegypti Population Age Structure
Authors: Joy Teresa , Chen Minhao , Arnbrister Joshua , Williamson Daniel , Li Shujuan , Nair Shakunthala , Brophy Maureen , Garcia Valerie Madera , Walker Kathleen , Ernst Kacey , Gouge Dawn H. , Carrière Yves , Riehle Michael A.
Published: April 2022

Given that older Aedes aegypti (L.) mosquitoes typically pose the greatest risk of pathogen transmission, the capacity to age grade wild Ae. aegypti mosquito populations would be a valuable tool in monitoring the potential risk of arboviral transmission. Here, we compared the effectiveness of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to age grade field-collected Ae. aegypti with two alternative techniques—parity analysis and transcript abundance of the age-associated gene SCP1. Using lab-reared mosquitoes of known ages from three distinct populations maintained as adults under laboratory or semi-field conditions, we developed and validated four NIRS models for predicting the age of field-collected Ae. aegypti. To assess the accuracy of these models, female Ae. aegypti mosquitoes were collected from Maricopa County, AZ, during the 2017 and 2018 monsoon season, and a subset were age graded using the three different age-grading techniques. For both years, each of the four NIRS models consistently graded parous mosquitoes as significantly older than nulliparous mosquitoes. Furthermore, a significant positive linear association occurred between SCP1 and NIRS age predictions in seven of the eight year/model combinations, although considerable variation in the predicted age of individual mosquitoes was observed. Our results suggest that although the NIRS models were not adequate in determining the age of individual field-collected mosquitoes, they have the potential to quickly and cost effectively track changes in the age structure of Ae. aegypti populations across locations and over time.
Bacterial Communities in the Feces of Laboratory Reared Gampsocleis gratiosa (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) across Different Developmental Stages and Sexes
Authors: Zhou Zhijun , Huang Huimin , Che Xuting
Published: April 2022

We used Illumina sequencing of the 16S rDNA V3-V4 region to identify the bacterial community in laboratory-reared G. gratiosa feces across different developmental stages (1st–7th instar nymph day 0, and 0-, 7-, 14-, and 21-day adult) and sexes. In total, 14,480,559 high-quality reads were clustered into 2982 species-level operational taxonomic units (OTUs), with an average of 481.197 (±137.366) OTUs per sample. These OTUs were assigned into 25 phyla, 42 classes, 60 orders, 116 families, 241 genera, and some unclassified groups. Only 21 core OTUs were shared by all samples. The most representative phylum was Proteobacteria, followed by Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Acidobacteria. At the genus level, Kluyvera (387 OTUs), Obesumbacterium (339 OTUs), Buttiauxella (296 OTUs), Lactobacillus (286 OTUs), and Hafnia (152 OTUs) were dominant bacteria. The early-instar nymphs harbored a similar bacterial community with other developmental stages, which contain higher species diversity. Both principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis (NMDS) failed to provide a clear clustering based on the developmental stages and sexes. Overall, we assume that G. gratiosa transmits bacteria vertically by eating contaminated eggshells, and both developmental stages and sexes had no significant effect on the fecal bacterial community.
Role of Lung Ultrasound in the Management of Patients with Suspected SARS-CoV-2 Infection in the Emergency Department
Authors: Boccatonda Andrea , Grignaschi Alice , Lanotte Antonella Maria Grazia , Cocco Giulio , Vidili Gianpaolo , Giostra Fabrizio , Schiavone Cosima
Published: April 2022

Background: The lung ultrasound (LUS) score has been proposed as an optimal scheme for the ultrasound study of patients with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia. The aims of our study were to evaluate the use of lung ultrasound as a diagnostic tool for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia, to examine the validity of the LUS score for the diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia, and to correlate this score with hospitalization rate and 30-day mortality. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 1460 patients who were referred to the General Emergency Department of the S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital from April 2020 to May 2020 for symptoms suspected to indicate SARS-CoV-2 infection. The ultrasound examination was based on a common execution scheme called the LUS score, as previously described. Results and Conclusions: The LUS score was found to correlate with the degree of clinical severity and respiratory failure (paO2/FiO2 ratio and the alveolar–arterial gradient increase than expected for age). It was shown that COVID-19 patients with an LUS score of >7 require the use of oxygen support, and a value of >10 is associated with an increased risk of oro-tracheal intubation. The LUS score was found to present higher values in hospitalized patients, increasing according to the degree of care intensity. Patients who died from COVID-19 were characterized by a mean LUS score of 11 at presentation to the emergency department. An LUS score of >7.5 was found to indicate a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 89% for 30-day mortality in COVID-19 patients. The use of LUS seems to be an optimal first level method for pneumonia detection and risk stratification in patients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Efficacy of Electrical Cardioversion in Relation to Occurrence and Type of Functional Mitral Regurgitation in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Klocek Konrad , Klimek Katarzyna , Tworek Michał , Wrona-Kolasa Karolina , Cichoń Małgorzata , Wybraniec Maciej , Mizia-Stec Katarzyna
Published: April 2022

Background: Recent studies have changed the perception of rhythm control in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Functional mitral regurgitation (fMR) can be both a cause and a consequence of AF and may influence rhythm restoration procedures. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis included 182 consecutive patients with AF on optimal medical therapy (OMT) undergoing electrical cardioversion (CVE). Based on transthoracic echocardiography, the study group was divided into 20 (11%) patients without mitral regurgitation (MR) and 132 (82%) with fMR 77 (58%) with atrial fMR (afMR; left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 50%, left atrial (LA) dilatation) and 55 (42%) and with ventricular fMR (vfMR; LVEF < 50%). Patients with severe and organic MR were excluded from the study. Results: vfMR patients had a greater incidence of kidney failure (p = 0.01) and coronary heart disease (p = 0.02); more frequent use of diuretics during hospitalization (p < 0.01); greater LA diameter and area (p < 0.01; p < 0.01) than afMR patients. CVE efficiency was high in all four groups (84–95%). The presence and type of fMR did not affect the efficacy of CVE (p = 0.2; p = 0.9) and did not require the use of more energy (p = 0.4; p = 0.8). The independent predictor of successful CVE was the amount of white blood cells (OR 0.74, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Efficacy of CVE is high among AF patients on OMT regardless of the incidence and type of fMR. Subclinical inflammation should be excluded before elective CVE because it may decrease its efficacy.
Chest Compression-Related Flail Chest Is Associated with Prolonged Ventilator Weaning in Cardiac Arrest Survivors
Authors: Kunz Kevin , Petros Sirak , Ewens Sebastian , Yahiaoui-Doktor Maryam , Denecke Timm , Struck Manuel Florian , Krämer Sebastian
Published: April 2022

Chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may be associated with iatrogenic chest wall injuries. The extent to which these CPR-associated chest wall injuries contribute to a delay in the respiratory recovery of cardiac arrest survivors has not been sufficiently explored. In a single-center retrospective cohort study, surviving intensive care unit (ICU) patients, who had undergone CPR due to medical reasons between 1 January 2018 and 30 June 2019, were analyzed regarding CPR-associated chest wall injuries, detected by chest radiography and computed tomography. Among 109 included patients, 38 (34.8%) presented with chest wall injuries, including 10 (9.2%) with flail chest. The multivariable logistic regression analysis identified flail chest to be independently associated with the need for tracheostomy (OR 15.5; 95% CI 2.77–86.27; p = 0.002). The linear regression analysis identified pneumonia (β 11.34; 95% CI 6.70–15.99; p < 0.001) and the presence of rib fractures (β 5.97; 95% CI 1.01–10.93; p = 0.019) to be associated with an increase in the length of ICU stay, whereas flail chest (β 10.45; 95% CI 3.57–17.33; p = 0.003) and pneumonia (β 6.12; 95% CI 0.94–11.31; p = 0.021) were associated with a prolonged duration of mechanical ventilation. Four patients with flail chest underwent surgical rib stabilization and were successfully weaned from the ventilator. The results of this study suggest that CPR-associated chest wall injuries, flail chest in particular, may impair the respiratory recovery of cardiac arrest survivors in the ICU. A multidisciplinary assessment may help to identify patients who could benefit from a surgical treatment approach.
Grip Strength in Patients with Gastrointestinal Diseases
Authors: Asaishi Ken , Matsui Masahiro , Nishikawa Hiroki , Goto Masahiro , Asai Akira , Ushiro Kosuke , Ogura Takeshi , Takeuchi Toshihisa , Nakamura Shiro , Kakimoto Kazuki , Miyazaki Takako , Fukunishi Shinya , Ohama Hideko , Yokohama Keisuke , Yasuoka Hidetaka , Higuchi Kazuhide
Published: April 2022

We sought to elucidate factors contributing to the grip strength (GS) decline in patients with gastrointestinal diseases (Ga-Ds, n = 602, 379 males, median age = 72 years). The GS decline in males and females was defined as <28 kg and <18 kg, respectively, following the current Asian guidelines. The median GS (male) was 28.8 kg, and GS decline (male) was found in 169 patients (44.6%). The median GS (female) was 17.5 kg, and GS decline (female) was found in 122 patients (54.7%). Advanced cancer was identified in 145 patients (24.1%). In terms of the univariate analysis of parameters of the GS decline, age (p < 0.0001), gender (p = 0.0181), body mass index (BMI, p = 0.0002), ECOG-PS (p < 0.0001), SARC-F score (p < 0.0001), hemoglobin value (p < 0.0001), total lymphocyte count (p < 0.0001), serum albumin value (p < 0.0001), C reactive protein (CRP) value (p < 0.0001), and estimated glomerular filtration rate were statistically significant. In terms of the multivariate analysis, age (p < 0.0001), BMI (p = 0.0223), hemoglobin value (p = 0.0186), serum albumin value (p = 0.0284), the SARC-F score (p = 0.0003), and CRP value (p < 0.0001) were independent parameters. In conclusion, the GS decline in patients with Ga-Ds is closely associated with not only the primary factor (i.e., aging) but also secondary factors such as inflammatory factors and nutritional factors.
Subthreshold Exudative Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV): Presentation of This Uncommon Subtype and Other CNVs in Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Authors: Douglas Vivian Paraskevi , Garg Itika , Douglas Konstantinos A. A. , Miller John B.
Published: April 2022

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in people over the age of 50 worldwide. Exudative or neovascular AMD is a more severe subset of AMD which is characterized by the presence of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Recent advancements in multimodal ophthalmic imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT-angiography (OCT-A), have facilitated the detection and characterization of previously undetectable neovascular lesions and have enabled a more refined classification of CNV in exudative as well as nonexudative AMD patients. Subthreshold exudative CNV is a novel subtype of exudative AMD that typically presents asymptomatically with good visual acuity and is characterized by stable persistent or intermittent subretinal fluid (SRF). This review aims to provide an overview of the clinical as well as multimodal imaging characteristics of CNV in AMD, including this new clinical phenotype, and propose effective approaches for management.
Analysis of Spindle AE Signals and Development of AE-Based Tool Wear Monitoring System in Micro-Milling
Authors: Wan Bing-Syun , Lu Ming-Chyuan , Chiou Shean-Juinn
Published: April 2022

Acoustic emission (AE) signals collected from different locations might provide various sensitivities to tool wear condition. Studies for tool wear monitoring using AE signals from sensors on workpieces has been reported in a number of papers. However, it is not feasible to implement in the production line. To study the feasibility of AE signals obtained from sensors on spindles to monitor tool wear in micro-milling, AE signals obtained from the spindle housing and workpiece were collected simultaneously and analyzed in this study for micro tool wear monitoring. In analyzing both signals on tool wear monitoring in micro-cutting, a feature selection algorithm and hidden Markov model (HMM) were also developed to verify the effect of both signals on the monitoring system performance. The results show that the frequency responses of signals collected from workpiece and spindle are different. Based on the signal feature/tool wear analysis, the results indicate that the AE signals obtained from the spindle housing have a lower sensitivity to the micro tool wear than AE signals obtained from the workpiece. However, the analysis of performance for the tool wear monitoring system demonstrates that a 100% classification rate could be obtained by using spindle AE signal features with a frequency span of 16 kHz. This suggests that AE signals collected on spindles might provide a promising solution to monitor the wear of the micro-mill in micro-milling with proper selection of the feature bandwidth and other parameters.
Hydrodynamic Design of Ships
Authors: Grigoropoulos Gregory J.
Published: April 2022

During the last two decades, the process of designing a ship has encompassed and incorporated its hydrodynamic performance in calm water and in waves, as well as that of the propulsion units, as a major aspect of its merit in service [...]
The Influence of Abiotic Factors on the Induction of Seaweed Callus
Authors: Tirtawijaya Gabriel , Negara Bertoka Fajar Surya Perwira , Lee Jin-Hwa , Cho Man-Gi , Kim Hye Kyung , Choi Yun-Sik , Lee Sang-Hoon , Choi Jae-Suk
Published: April 2022

Seaweeds are a major source of functional foods, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. Seaweed can be sustainably harvested through callus culture, which yields homogenous cells and bioproducts under controlled conditions. Callus induction is a crucial early step in callus culture and is influenced by several abiotic factors. This review aims to discuss the influence of abiotic factors on callus induction in seaweeds, a prerequisite for the application and development of seaweed callus culture. We used three online databases (Springer, Science Direct, and Wiley) to search for the literature on seaweed callus induction published between 1987 and 2020. Thirty-three articles for review were identified and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The analysis covers 56 seaweed species (3% Chlorophyta, 44% Phaeophyta, and 53% Rhodophyta) under various abiotic treatments, including light irradiance (23%), temperature (15%), media type (21%), plant growth regulators (26%), gelling conditions (9%), and other factors (6%). The information on these abiotic factors is intended to be a practical reference and to foster the further study of the callus culture of seaweed. More studies are needed to determine how to maintain and increase callus mass in suspension culture for the industrial production of seaweed and its metabolites.
Deep-Sea Sediment and Water Simulator for Investigation of Methane Seeping and Hydrate Formation
Authors: Xie Yan , Feng Jingchun , Hu Weiqiang , Zhang Mingrui , Wang Junwen , Peng Bo , Wang Yujun , Zhou Zhenwu , Wang Yi
Published: April 2022

The ubiquitous methane seeping process in the deep-sea environment could significantly influence the global methane cycle and carbon budget. Hydrate formation on the methane bubble during the seeping process is an important way for sequestrating methane during bubble migration. Uncovering the complete methane leakage process needs to reveal the methane leakage pathway and hydrate conversion mechanism. Hence, we built a deep-sea sediment and water simulator to investigate the methane seeping and hydrate formation. The simulator can mimic the deep-sea sediment and water environment with a lower sediment chamber and an upper seawater chamber. The monitoring of the bubble migration path and hydrate transformation and aggregation in the sediment chamber is realized mainly through the spatial distribution of electric resistance and temperature variations. The seawater chamber is equipped with a built-in movable camera and four external windows to observe the rising and morphological evolution of gas and hydrate bubbles. The quantitative storage and escape of CH4 gas could be realized through the measurement of multiple gas/liquid collection ports and cumulative incoming/outgoing gas volume. In addition, a movable biological liquid injection port was designed in the seawater chamber for the coupling CH4 conversion of hydrate formation and microorganism-mediated oxidation. Through the experimental test on each function of the system, the effectiveness of the device was proved. The development of this device has pioneering significance for the experimental simulation of the methane seeping process in a simulated submarine cold spring area.
The Presence of Exophiala dermatitidis in the Respiratory Tract of Cystic Fibrosis Patients Accelerates Lung Function Decline: A Retrospective Review of Lung Function
Authors: Ayling-Smith Jonathan , Speight Lorraine , Dhillon Rishi , Backx Matthijs , White Philip Lewis , Hood Kerenza , Duckers Jamie
Published: April 2022

Exophiala dermatitidis is increasingly isolated from cystic fibrosis (CF) respiratory samples. The decision to treat is hampered by limited evidence demonstrating the clinical significance of isolating E. dermatitidis. The objective was to assess the impact of E. dermatitidis isolation on the lung function of CF patients. The rate of lung function decline in the local CF population was calculated using historic lung function data. A control population who had never had E. dermatitidis cultured from the respiratory tract was compared with the E. dermatitidis group, calculating their rate of lung function decline before and after the first isolation of the organism. A total of 1840 lung function measurements were reviewed between the 31 E. dermatitidis group patients and 62 control patients. Their demographics were similar. The control group declined at a rate of −0.824 FEV1%/year. The rate of decline in the E. dermatitidis group prior to infection was −0.337 FEV1%/year (p = 0.2). However, post infection with E. dermatitidis, there was a significant increase in the rate of decline in lung function (−1.824 FEV1%/year, p < 0.01). The results suggest E. dermatitidis has a temporal relationship with accelerated rate of lung function decline. It is not clear if this is a cause or effect, but this accelerated rate of decline indicates a need for further investigation.
The Expanding Role of the Infectious Disease Expert in the Context of the MS Centre
Authors: Lucchini Matteo , Del Giacomo Paola , De Arcangelis Valeria , Nociti Viviana , Bianco Assunta , De Fino Chiara , Presicce Giorgia , Cicia Alessandra , Carlomagno Vincenzo , Mirabella Massimiliano
Published: April 2022

Introduction: The complexity of the MS patient’s management is constantly growing. Consequently, the MS care unit requires a multidisciplinary approach, including an infectious disease specialist to minimise the risk of infectious complications related both to the disease and DMTs. Materials and methods: We retrospectively evaluated the infectious disease consultations performed from 2015 to 2019 in our MS centre. Results: We identified 107 patients with at least one infectious disease consultation out of 1088 patients. We found a progressive increase in the number of consultations from 2015 to 2019. Nearly half of the consultations were requested at the time of starting MS treatment. The most frequent requests were represented by chronic or acute infections. The most prevalent infectious agents were Herpesviridae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Antibiotic or antiviral treatment and prophylactic treatment or vaccination represented together the most frequent outcomes of the consultations. Finally, a treatment delay was significantly associated with the advice of a prophylactic treatment or of a vaccination. Conclusion: There is an increasing awareness of the potential infectious complications of MS and of exposure to DMTs. The interaction between the MS neurologist and infectious disease specialist is fundamental to minimise the infectious risk related to the disease and to the DMTs, with a progressive shift from complication management to a broader prevention workup at the time of MS diagnosis, including both vaccination and prophylactic treatments.
Prognostic Value of Dual-Time-Point [18F]FDG PET/CT for Predicting Distant Metastasis after Treatment in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lee Sang Mi , Lee Jeong Won , Lee Ji-Hyun , Jo In Young , Jang Su Jin
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of 2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) uptake in the bone marrow (BM) and primary tumors on dual-time-point (DTP) PET/CT for predicting progression-free survival (PFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We retrospectively analyzed DTP [18F]FDG PET/CT images from 211 patients with NSCLC. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) of primary lung cancer and mean [18F]FDG uptake of the BM (BM SUV) were measured from early and delayed PET/CT images, and the percent changes in these parameters (∆maximum SUV and ∆BM SUV) were calculated. On multivariate survival analysis, the maximum SUV and BM SUV on both early and delayed PET/CT scans were significantly associated with PFS, while the ∆maximum SUV and ∆BM SUV failed to show statistical significance. For DMFS, the ∆maximum SUV and ∆BM SUV were independent predictors along with the TNM stage. Distant progression was observed only in 1.3% of patients with low ∆maximum SUV and ∆BM SUV, whereas 28.2% of patients with high ∆maximum SUV and ∆BM SUV experienced distant progression. The ∆maximum SUV and ∆BM SUV on DTP [18F]FDG PET/CT were significant independent predictors for DMFS in patients with NSCLC.
Specific Therapy for T2 Asthma
Authors: Bagnasco Diego , Testino Elisa , Nicola Stefania , Melissari Laura , Russo Maria , Canevari Rikki Frank , Brussino Luisa , Passalacqua Giovanni
Published: April 2022

Asthma is a disease with high incidence and prevalence, and its severe form accounts for approximately 10% of asthmatics. Over the last decade, the increasing knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the disease allowed the development of biological drugs capable of sufficiently controlling symptoms and reducing the use of systemic steroids. The best-known mechanisms are those pertaining to type 2 inflammation, for which drugs were developed and studied. Those biological treatments affect crucial points of bronchial inflammation. Among the mechanisms explored, there were IgE (Omalizumab), interleukin 5 (Mepolizumab and Reslizumab), interleukin 5 receptor alpha (Benralizumab) and interleukin 4/13 receptor (Dupilumab). Under investigation and expected to be soon commercialized is the monoclonal antibody blocking the thymic stromal lymphopoietin (Tezepelumab). Seemingly under study and promising, are anti-interleukin-33 (itepekimab) and anti-suppressor of tumorigenicity-2 (astegolimab). With this study, we want to provide an overview of these drugs, paying particular attention to their mechanism of action, the main endpoints reached in clinical trials, the main results obtained in real life and some unclear points regarding their usage.
Developing a Biosensor-Based Immunoassay to Detect HPV E6 Oncoprotein in the Saliva Rinse Fluid of Oral Cancer Patients
Authors: Cheng Chi-Sheng , Ou Bor-Rung , Lung Feng-Di
Published: April 2022

Transmission of Human papillomavirus (HPVs) is faithfully associated with carcinogenesis of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers. Therefore, clinical researchers may need to generate customized antibodies for the upcoming ELISA-based analysis to discover rare but valuable biomarkers. The aim of study was to develop and generate a biosensor-based immunoassay for early screening HPV-related oral cancer via saliva rinse fluid analysis. A peptide fragment of high-risk HPV subtype 16/18 protein, E6 protein (HP-1 protein sequence 48–66), was designed and synthesized, followed by the generation of polyclonal antibodies (anti-HP1 IgY) in our university-based laboratories. The titer and specificity of antibodies were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) biosensor-based method was developed. Kinetic analyses by SPR confirmed that this designed peptide showed a high affinity with its generated polyclonal antibodies. Saliva fluid samples of thirty oral cancer patients and 13 healthy subjects were analyzed. SPR indicated that 26.8% of oral cancer patients had higher resonance unit (ΔRU) values than normal subjects. In conclusion, we developed a biosensor-based immunoassay to detect HPV E6 oncoprotein in the saliva rinse fluid for early screening and discrimination of HPV-related oral cancer patients.
PECULIARITIES OF SOYBEAN PRODUCTIVITY AFFECTED BY DEXTREL AND BRADYRHIZOBIUM JARONICUM STRAIN
Authors: Golunova L.
Published: April 2022

The effect of 0.3% dextrel with the preceding soybean seed inoculation were studied in concern with linear growth,donor-acceptor system function, productivity and seed capacity formation of Glycine max L. It was apparent that presowingbacterization of seeds with Bradyrhizobium japonicum M 8 in complex with ethylene producer dextrel at the turnto reproductive phase had an impact on morphological features of the experimental plants and their crop quality indices.Slow-growing nodule bacteria influence proved to have a stimulating effect on the growth processes of soybean plants.Mutual interaction of Bradyrhizobium japonicum M 8 and inhibited growth processes affected the redistribution of assimilatersbetween vegetative and generative organs in experimental plants. The use of the growth regulating preparationson soybean plants increased crop yields and positive effect on the quality of Glycine max seeds.Bacterization of seeds by strains and that in complex with growth regulators led to increased branching of the stem,while reducing its height under dextrel. Analysis of plant seeds at the end of the growth period indicated that the complexeffect of preparations caused a maximum increase in oil outcome and a decrease in the amount of sugars. The nitrogencontents in the seeds increased in comparison with the untreated control and did not differ significantly from the variantwith the strain only. Phosphorus contents increased, while potassium did not differ in the variants of the experiment.
VARIETY OF FLORA´S ECOTOPS AND SPECIES COMPOSITION IN THE TERRITORIES OF BASALT OPERATING AND ABANDOED QUARRIES IN VOLYN POLISYA
Authors: Savchuk L.
Published: April 2022

The article deals with the results of researching the diversity of biotypes andtheir floristic composition in the territory of existing and abandoned quarries in Volyn Polissya (Kostopil and Volodymyrets regions, Rivne oblast). Studies have revealed 562 species of higher vascular plants of 347 genera and 92 families. A great variety flora´s species is connected with the diversity of ecotopes that have formed there as a result of anthropogenic and natural factors. Characteristic features of this territory are various micro and mesorelief forms, which differ ecological conditions and determine the ecotopological differentiation of the species composition quarry´s flora and the territory in general. Soil substrate or chemical composition of water have the greatest influence on the plant´s composition of different ecotypes, the sunlight has less influence. The largest species diversity of flora characterized by ecotopes in meadow and tree-shrub vegetation, they are transformed variants of natural groups, as well as overburden dumps and landfills, where the main plant community are synanthropic species, in particular adventitious plats. In some areas, where basalt mining has been stopped for more than 15–20 years there are processes of renaturalization, we can see there spreading of rare plant species.
ANALYSIS OF LEGISLATIVE DOCUMENTS IN THE WORK OF SOCIAL WORKERS WITH SOCIALLY DISABLED YOUTH
Authors: SAVYTSKA A. , MOROZ L.
Published: April 2022

The article is devoted to the study of the category of socially excluded youth. The urgency of the profession of social worker is noted. Defining and visioning a future social worker in social work, in choosing attractive socially significant areas of work with different categories of population requires quite deep knowledge and extensive scientific social information. As practice shows, the efficiency of work of the future social worker is not possible without the knowledge of regulatory documents.As a result of the analysis of the current legal framework for work of social workers with socially excluded youth, it is determined that the Ukrainian legislative field of social work has not yet been finalized. In Ukraine, the search for its own model of social protection of the population is still ongoing, the network of social services is being formed, which would correspond to the modern notions of social services, and the corresponding legal regulation of the activity of such services, the legislation on professional regulation of the activity of practical social workers is being developed. opportunities for partnership between the state and non-governmental organizations in the social sphere.Particular attention was paid to the Constitution of Ukraine and the Laws of Ukraine, which guarantee the timely provision of socially-pedagogical, material and rehabilitation assistance to socially excluded youth, as well as obtaining the necessary social services.It is proved that social workers, being interested in changes for the benefit of socially excluded youth, should know how to use the existing legal mechanisms of influence and increase the knowledge of the legal framework to achieve the well-being of all sections of the population.
THE ROLE OF THE POLTAVA PUBLIC LIBRARY COMMITTEE IN REFORMING THE INSTITUTION WITH THE PURPOSE OF IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF POPULATION SERVICE (1901 – 1903)
Authors: BELKO O. , POLYAKOVA-LAHODA M.
Published: April 2022

Relevance of research. At each stage of the historical development of society, depending on the political and socioeconomic circumstances, the library, as an important social institution, had to constantly adapt to new requirements and conditions of the time. Such transformations have contributed to the accumulation of resources of book collections and, accordingly, the search for new solutions to ensure the full implementation of its functions by cultural and educational centers. The importance of this study lies in the study of the stages of historical processes of library work in Ukraine in the early twentieth century, from the experience of the Poltava Public Library of the Provincial Zemstvo. The purpose to reveal features of the organization of interaction of the given library and its users in the conditions of the period of increase of reader needs. The methodological basis of the work is the combined application of general scientific principles of historicism, objectivity, system. Scientific novelty. For the first time, the role of the Committee of the Poltava Public Library of the Provincial Zemstvo in reforming the institution in order to improve the quality of public services in 19011903 was analyzed. Conclusions. The Committee of the Poltava Public Library of the Provincial Zemstvo, now the Poltava Regional Universal Scientific Library named after IP Kotlyarevsky, operated on a voluntary basis. There was a constant search for new methods of work in the processes: optimization of book publishing, organization of disinfection of literature, work with readers. Studying the experience of libraries in the Russian Empire, we can say that the popularization of literature by libraries helped to raise the level of education among the population, which contributed to the activity and desire of progressive intelligentsia to help the needy and promote spirituality, investing in literature.
Telehealth use in patients with type 2 diabetes in Australian general practice during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Imai Chisato , Thomas Judith , Hardie Rae-Anne , Pearce Christopher , Badrick Tony , Georgiou Andrew
Published: April 2022

Background

The Australian government introduced temporary government-subsidised telehealth service items (phone and video-conference) in mid-March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The uptake of telehealth by patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) for consulting with GPs is unknown.

Aim

To evaluate the uptake of telehealth consultations and associated patient characteristics in Australian general practice, including the frequency of haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) tests and change in HbA1c levels by telehealth use, compared with guideline recommendations.

Design & setting

This exploratory study used electronic patient data from approximately 800 general practices in Victoria and New South Wales (NSW), Australia. A pre-COVID-19 period from March 2019–February 2020 was compared with a pandemic period from March 2020–February 2021. Patients diagnosed with T2DM before March 2018 were included.

Method

Telehealth uptake patterns were examined overall and by patient characteristics. Generalised estimating equation models were used to examine patient probability of 6-monthly HbA1c testing and change in HbA1c levels, comparing between patients who did and patients who did not use telehealth.

Results

Of 57 916 patients, 80.8% had telehealth consultations during the pandemic period. Telehealth consultations were positively associated with patients with T2DM who were older, female, had chronic kidney disease (CKD), prescribed antidiabetic medications, and living in remote areas. No significant difference was found in 6-monthly HbA1c testing and HbA1c levels between telehealth users and patients who had face-to-face consultations only.

Conclusion

Telehealth GP consultations were well utilised by patients with T2DM. Diabetes monitoring care via telehealth is as effective as face-to-face consultations.