bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of OCT Biomarkers Based on New Diabetic Macular Edema Classification TCED-HFV to Anti-VEGF Therapy and Its Prognostic Role in Vision Benefits
Authors: Yan Meng , Wang Wenying , Zheng Zhaoxia , Li Lu , Zhang Duo , Zhang Lina
Published: December 2021

Introduction. To investigate the association between OCT biomarkers and visual prognosis, based on TCED-HFV,and to explore whether these biomarkers have predictive value in visual prognosis of DME patients.Methods. The retrospective study included 166 eyes from 122 DME patients, who received 3 initial monthly intravitreal injections followed by PRN dosing. Results. The significant improvement of BCVA, as well as statistical decrement of CMT and HF, could be observed(p < 0.001, P=0.023, P=0.002, respectively). The BCVA in early and advanced DME is significantly better than that in severe DME in baseline (P=0.027, P=0.009, respectively) and 1 year (P=0.017, P=0.030, respectively). The broken EZ/ELM was generally accompanied by the existence of SF (P=0.032). The presence of DRIL and persistence SF were associated with negative visual effects (P＜0.001, P=0.045, respectively). At month 12 the mean BCVA was significantly improved in both intact and disrupted EZ/ELM groups (P=0.023, P=0.033, respectively). The number of the DME patients with ERM increases after treatment (P＜0.001).Conclusions. Intact EZ/ELM, the absence of DRIL and ERM might contribute to better response in patients. The persistence SF was a negative factor. Intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy was associated with ERM development and progression. It is not objective to consider only the OCT biomarkers but not the stages, and the indicators of different stages should be studied separately.
A Facile Synthesis of PbS-G QDs Nanocomposite as Electrode Material With Enhanced Energy Density for High Performance Supercapattery Application
Authors: Suganya G. , Arivanandhan M. , Gopalakrishnan Kalpana
Published: December 2021

Bare PbS QDs and PbS-GQDs nanocomposite were prepared by chemical methods for supercapattery application and characterized by suitable analytical techniques confirming the formation of PbS-GQDs nanocomposite. The electrochemical performance of the fabricated electrodes showed that the PbS-GQDs nanocomposite exhibited high specific capacity, energy and power densities of 577.94 C g-1 , 166.45 Wh kg-1 and 576.01 W kg-1 respectively at 2 A g-1 compared to that of bare PbS QDs. The enhanced electrochemical performance of PbS-GQDs can be associated with the conductive platform provided by synergistic effect of GQDs. The nonlinearity in charge and discharge curves confirms the supercapattery behaviour of the nanocomposite. Also, PbS-G QDs nanocomposite electrode showed highly cyclic stability compared to bare PbS QDs after 5000 cycles. The results emphasize the potential of PbS-G QDs nanocomposite as a stable active electrode material for energy storage application.
Vaccination Strategy for the COVID-19 Pandemic in Early 2021 Based on Differences in People's Behavior Between Tokyo and Osaka, Japan
Authors: Yasuda Hidenori , ITO Fuyu , HANAKI Ken-ichi , SUZUKI Kazuo
Published: December 2021

Background: During the fourth COVID-19 wave in Japan, a marked difference was apparent in the scale of the epidemic between Metropolitan Tokyo in eastern Japan and Osaka prefecture in western Japan.Methods: Public epidemic data were analyzed, with performance of mathematical simulations using simplified SEIR models.Results: The increase in the number of infected persons per 100,000 population during the fourth wave of expansion was greater in Osaka than in Tokyo. The basic reproduction number in Osaka was greater than in Tokyo. Particularly, the number of infected people in their 20s increased during the fourth wave: the generation-specific reproduction number of people in their 20s was higher than people of other generations. Both Tokyo and Osaka had strong correlation between the increase in the number of infected people and the average number of people using the main downtown stations at night. Simulations showed vaccination of people in their 60s and older reduced the number of infected people among the high-risk elderly population in the fourth wave. However, age-specific vaccination of people in their 20s reduced the number of infected people more than vaccination of people in their 60s and older.Conclusions: Differences in the epidemic between Tokyo and Osaka are explainable by different behaviors of the most socially active generation. When vaccine supplies are adequate, priority should be assigned to high-risk older adults, but if vaccine supplies are scarce, simulation results suggest consideration of vaccinating specific groups among whom the epidemic is spreading rapidly.
Senescent Phenotype of Astrocytes Leads to Microglia Activation and Neuronal Death
Authors: Zhang You Wen , Yang Xuehan , Liu Jingyue , Pan Yichen , Zhang Ming , Chen Li
Published: December 2021

Astrocyte, the most abundant cell type in the central nervous system, is increasingly recognized and is thought to depend on curial and diverse roles in maintaining brain homeostasis, the blood-brain barrier, ion homeostasis, secrete neurotrophic factors and regulate synaptic transmission which is essential to tune individual-to-network neuronal activity. Senescence in astrocytes has been discovered to be an important contributor to several age-related neurological diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. However, the latest research about astrocytes from aged subjects or aged astrocytes in vitro is not yet adequate to be well elucidated on their curial process in the regulation of brain function. In this study, an in vitro cell model of aged astrocytes was constructed by serial passaging until passage 20-25, and those passages within 1-5 were used as young astrocytes. Meanwhile, oxidative induced astrocyte senescence model was also constructed by H2O2 induction. Our results indicate that after serial passaging or oxidative stress-induced astrocytes, all showed manifest changes in several established markers of cellular senescence like P53, P21, the release of inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and SA-β-gal positive cells. Results also showed mitochondrial dysfunction in the oxidative stress-induced astrocyte senescence model and treatment of berberine could reverse these alterations. What’s more interests us is that those two types of senescent astrocytes’ conditioned medium co-cultured with neuronal cells could do impact on neuron apoptosis no matter in direct or indirect ways. This study may help us better understand the fundamental role of astrocyte senescence on the regulation of normal and pathological brain aging.
Population Genetic Structure of Neoschoengastia Gallinarum in China Based on Mitochondrial DNA Markers
Authors: Tao Jia-Meng , Ashram Saeed-EI , Zhang Yuan , Weng Ya-Biao , Lin Rui-Qing
Published: December 2021

Background: Neoschoengastia gallinarum is a widespread agricultural pest in China.The larvae of N. gallinarum are parasitic on the body surface of poultry. Performance, carcass quality, and normal marketing of mite infected broilers are severely affected by pruritus and pockmark lesions on the body surface. In China, N. gallinarum research has primarily focused on occurrence regularity, biology, and control methods. The genetic structure, variation, and genetic relationship between the N. gallinarum populations in China are still unclear.Methods: Genetic variations and structure among populations of N. gallinarum was examined and analyzed based on the nucleotide sequences of a 1522 nt variable region of the mitochondrial tandem genes (COI, COII, and ND5) among 4 populations from 7 collection sites in southern China.Results: A total of 192 individuals in 4 populations were analyzed. The tandem genes sequences were aligned, and 75 haplotypes were detected, 4 of these shared between populations. The range of haplotype diversity was from 0.860 (FJ) to 0.978 (GX). The pairwise FST values among populations were higher (0.096-0.551).The haplotype network mediation map and phylogenetic tree showed that the haplotypes were divided into two clade, Which did not completely follow the distribution rule of geographical populations. The AMOVA result showed that the percentage of variation within populations (72.94%) was higher than that among populations (27.06%). Neutral test and mismatch analysisrevealed that N. gallinarum had not experienced an obvious population expansion in recent historical periods, and the population size was relatively stable.Conclusions: The N. gallinarum population showed high genetic diversity based on mitochondrial tandem genes analysis and strong ecological adaptability. Despite the fact that geogrphic isolation causes certain genetic differentiation among populations, N. gallinarum high gene flow among populations as a result of human trade activities, and there was no obvious geographical genetic structure.
Knockout of High-Mobility Group Box 1 in B16F10 Melanoma Cells Induced Host Immunity-Mediated Suppression of In Vivo Tumor Growth
Authors: Yokomizo Kanako , Waki Kayoko , Ozawa Miyako , Yamamoto Keiko , Ogasawara Sachiko , Yano Hirohisa , Yamada Akira
Published: December 2021

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) has been reported as a damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) molecule that is released from damaged or dead cells and induces inflammation and subsequent innate immunity. However, the role of HMGB1 in the anti-tumor immunity is unclear since inflammation in the tumor microenvironment also contributes to tumor promotion and progression. In the present study, we established HMGB1-knockout clones from B16F10 and CT26 murine tumors by genome editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and investigated the role of HMGB1 in anti-tumor immunity. We found that 1) knockout of HMGB1 in the tumor cells suppressed in vivo, but not in vitro, tumor growth, 2) the suppression of the in vivo tumor growth was mediated by CD8 T cells, and 3) infiltration of CD8 T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells into the tumor tissues was accelerated in HMGB1-knockout tumors. These results demonstrated that knockout of HMGB1 in tumor cells converted tumors from poor infiltration of immune cells called “cold” to “immune-inflamed” or “hot” and inhibited in vivo tumor growth mediated by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Infiltration of immune cells to the tumor microenvironment is an important step in the series known as the cancer immunity cycle. Thus, manipulation of tumor-derived HMGB1 might be applicable to improve the clinical outcomes of cancer immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint blockades and cancer vaccine therapies.
Prognostic Value of Immunotherapy-induced Organ Inflammation Assessed on 18FDG PET in Patients With Metastatic Non–small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: HUMBERT Olivier , BAUCKNEHT Matteo , GAL Jocelyn , PAQUET Marie , CHARDIN David , RENER David , SCHIAZZA Aurelie , GENOVA Carlo , SCHIAPPA Renaud , ZULLO Lodovica , ROSSI Giovanni , MARTIN Nicolas , HUGONNET Florent , DARCOURT Jacques , MORBELLI Silvia , OTTO Josiane
Published: December 2021

PurposeWe evaluated the prognostic value of immunotherapy-induced organ inflammation observed on 18FDG PET in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPI).MethodsData from patients with IIIB/IV NSCLC included in two different prospective trials were analyzed. 18FDG PET/CT exams were performed at baseline (PETBaseline) and repeated after 7-8 weeks (PETInterim1) and 12-16 weeks (PETInterim2) of treatment, using iPERCIST for tumor response evaluation. The occurrence of abnormal organ 18FDG uptake, deemed to be due to ICPI-related organ inflammation, was collected.ResultsExploratory cohort (Nice, France): PETinterim1 and PETinterim2 revealed the occurrence of at least one ICPI-induced organ inflammation in 72.8% of patients, including: midgut/hindgut inflammation (33.7%), gastritis (21.7%), thyroiditis (18.5%), pneumonitis (17.4%), and other organ inflammations (9.8%). iPERCIST tumor response was associated with improved Progression Free Survival (p<0.001). iPERCIST tumor response and immuno-induced gastritis assessed on PET were both associated with improved Overall Survival (OS) (p<0.001 and p=0.032). Combining these two independent variables, we built a model predicting patients 2-year OS with a sensitivity of 80.3% and a specificity of 69.2% (AUC=72.7).Validation cohort (Genova, Italy): Immuno-induced gastritis (19.6% of patients) was associated with improved OS (p=0.04). The model built previously predicted 2-years OS with a sensitivity and specificity of 72.0% and 63.6% (AUC=70.7) and 3-years OS with a sensitivity and specificity of 69.2% and 80.0% (AUC= 78.2).Conclusion﻿Immuno-induced gastritis revealed by early interim 18FDG PET in around 20% of patients with NSCLC treated with ICPI, is a novel and reproducible imaging biomarker of improved OS.
Analytical and Experimental Investigation on Cutting Force in Longitudinal-Torsional Coupled Rotary Ultrasonic Machining Zirconia Ceramics
Authors: Chen Fan , Bie Wenbo , Chang Yingli , Zhao Bo , Wang Xiaobo , Zhang Yuemin
Published: December 2021

Ceramics and other hard-and-brittle materials are very effectively processed by longitudinal-torsional coupled rotary ultrasonic machining (LTC-RUM). However, the cutting force evolution and the effects of processing parameters on the material removal mechanism in LTC-RUM need to be clarified for machining optimization. This paper proposes a cutting force model of the LTC-RUM of zirconia ceramics via the brittle material removal mechanism. Firstly, the kinematic analysis of a single abrasive grain was performed, with further consideration of the material removal volume, the effective contact time, and the impact force per one ultrasonic vibration cycle. Then, the longitudinal-torsional coupled vibration of the core tool was analyzed from the standpoint of wave energy conversion. The analytical model was finalized and experimentally verified by LTC-RUM tests. The cutting force curves predicted via the proposed model were in good agreement with the experimental results. The results obtained are considered instrumental in predicting the effects of processing parameters on cutting force during LTC-RUM of ceramics and their further optimization.
AtSYP71 Is Important for Plant Cell Wall Biosynthesis and Stress Adaptation.
Authors: Kou Xiaoyue , Zhang Hailong , Zhao Xiaonan , Wang Mingjing , Qin Guochen , Zhou Jingwen , Zhao Zhenjie , Feng Xianzhong , Li Lixin
Published: December 2021

Background: SYP71, the plant-specific Qc-SNARE protein, is reported to regulate vesicle trafficking. SYP71 is localized on the ER, endosome, plasma membrane and cell plate, suggesting its multiple functions. Lotus SYP71 is essential for symbiotic nitrogen fixation in nodules. AtSYP71, GmSYP71 and OsSYP71 are implicated in plant resistance to pathogenesis. To date, SYP71 regulatory role on plant development remain unclear.Results: AtSYP71-knockout mutant atsyp71-4 was lethal at early development stage. Early development of AtSYP71-knockdown mutant atsyp71-2 was delayed, and stress response was also affected. Confocal images revealed that protein secretion was blocked in atsyp71-2. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that metabolism, response to environmental stimuli pathways and apoplast components were influenced in atsyp71-2. Moreover, the contents of lignin, cellulose and flavonoids as well as cell wall structures were also altered.Conclusion: Our findings suggested that AtSYP71 is essential for plant development. AtSYP71 probably regulates plant development, metabolism and environmental adaptation by affecting cell wall homeostasis via mediating secretion of materials and regulators required for cell wall biosynthesis and dynamics.
Role of Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabivarin on Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Rodents
Authors: Kalvala Anil Kumar , Bagde Arvind , Arthur Peggy , Surapaneni Sunil Kumar , Nimma Ramesh , Nathani Aakash , Singh Mandip
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of phytocannabinoids, synthetic cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and their combination on taxol induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) in mice. Briefly, six groups of C57BL/6J mice (n = 6) were used. PTX (8 mg/kg/day, i.p.) was given to the mice on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 to induce neuropathy. Mice were evaluated for their behavioral parameters and also at the end of the study, DRG collected from the animals were subjected to RNA sequence and westernblot analysis. Further, immunocytochemistry and mitochondrial functional assays were performed on cultured DRGs derived from SD rats. The combination of CBD and THCV improved thermal and mechanical neurobehavioral symptoms in mice by two folds as compared to individual treatments. KEGG (RNA Sequencing) identified P38-MAPK, AMPK, and PI3K-AKT pathways as potential CBD and THCV therapeutic targets. In PTX-treated animals, the expression of p-AMPK, SIRT1, NRF2, HO1, SOD2, and catalase was significantly reduced (p<0.001), whereas the expression of PI3K, p-AKT, p-P38 MAP kinase, BAX, TGF-, NLRP3 inflammasome, and caspase 3 was significantly increased (p<0.001) when compared to control group. In reversing these protein expressions, combination therapy outperformed single therapies. CBD and THCV treatment increased AMPK, Catalase, and Complex I expression while decreasing mitochondrial superoxides in DRG primary cultures. In mice and DRG primary cultures, WAY100135 and rimonabant inhibited the effects of CBD and THCV by blocking 5 HT1A and CB1 receptors. In conclusion, entourage effect of CBD and THCV combination against PIPN appears to protect neurons in mice by modulating 5HT1A and CB1 receptors, respectively.
Diversity and Ethno-Mycological Importance of Mushrooms from Western Himalayas, Kashmir.
Authors: ULLAH Tariq Saiff , Firdous Syeda Sadiqa , Shaheen Hamayun , Hussain Javeed , Khalid Abdul Nasir
Published: December 2021

Wild edible mushrooms (WEM) are economically significant and used in traditional medicines worldwide. The region of Jammu and Kashmir (Western Himalayas) is enriched with the diversity of edible mushrooms, collected by the rural people for food and income generation. This is the first detailed study on diversity and ethno-medicinal uses of mushrooms from the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Methods: Consecutive surveys were conducted to record ethno-mycological diversity and socio-economic importance of wild edible mushrooms value chain in rural areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir during 2015-2020. Data were collected with a semi-structured questionnaire having a set of questions on indigenous mycological knowledge and collection and retailing of wild edible mushrooms. A total of 923 informants from the study area provided results identifying the gender, type of mushroom species, medicinal uses, and marketing of mushrooms. Principal component analysis (PCA) was also applied to the data set to analyse the relationship between species distribution, the underlying environmental factors and habitat types. PCA identified the major species specific to the sites and put them close to the sites of distribution.Results: A total of 131 mushroom species were collected and identified during 2015-2020 from the study area. One hundred and one species of mushrooms were reported new to the State of Jammu and Kashmir. The dominant mushroom family was Russullaceae with 23 species followed by Agaricaceae, 16 species. Major mushroom species identified and grouped by the PCA were Coprinus comatus, Lactarius sangufulus, Amanita fulva, Armillaria gallica, Lycoperdon perlatum, Lycoperdon pyriforme, and Russula creminicolor. Sparassis crispa, Pleurotus sp and Laetiporus sulphurous were recorded most edible and medicinally significant fungi. Morels were the most expensive and medicinally important among all harvested macro-fungal species. These were reported to use against the common ailments and various health problems. Conclusions: Collection and retailing of WEM contribute to improve the socioeconomic status, providing alternative employment and food security to rural people of the area. These mushrooms are used as a source of food and traditional medicines among the rural informants and could be used a potential source of antibacterial and anticancer drugs in future.
Machine Learning and In-Vivo Expression Analyses Reveal Circadian Clock Features Predictive of Anxiety in Humans
Authors: Zafar Aziz , Overton Rebeccah , Attia Ziad , Ay Ahmet , Ingram Krista
Published: December 2021

Mood disorders, including anxiety, are associated with disruptions in circadian rhythms and are linked to polymorphisms in circadian clock genes. Molecular mechanisms underlying these connections may be direct—via transcriptional activity of clock genes on downstream mood pathways in the brain, or indirect—via clock gene influences on the phase and amplitude of circadian rhythms which, in turn, modulate physiological processes influencing mood. Employing machine learning combined with statistical approaches, we explored clock genotype combinations that predict risk for anxiety symptoms in a deeply phenotyped population. We identified multiple novel circadian genotypes predictive of anxiety, with the PER3B-AG/CRY1-CG genotype being the strongest predictor of anxiety risk in males. Molecular chronotyping, using clock gene expression oscillations, revealed that advanced circadian phase and robust circadian amplitudes are associated with high levels of anxiety symptoms. Further analyses revealed that individuals with advanced phases and pronounced circadian misalignment were at higher risk for severe anxiety symptoms. Our results support both direct and indirect influences of clock gene variants on mood: while sex-specific clock genotype combinations predictive of anxiety symptoms suggest direct effects on mood pathways, the mediation of PER3B effects on anxiety via diurnal preference measures and the association of circadian phase with anxiety symptoms provide evidence for indirect effects of the molecular clockwork on mood. Unraveling the complex molecular mechanisms underlying the links between circadian physiology and mood is essential to identifying the core clock genes to target in future functional studies, thereby advancing the development of non-invasive treatments for anxiety-related disorders.
Subsurface Oxygen Defects Electronically Interacting with Active Sites on In2O3 for Enhanced Photothermocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Wei Weiqin , Wei Zhen , Li Ruizhe , Li zhenhua , Shi Run , Ouyang Shuxin , Qi Yuhang , Phillips David , Yuan Hong
Published: December 2021

Oxygen defects play an important role in many catalytic reactions. Increasing surface oxygen defects can be done through reduction treatment. However, excessive reduction blocks electron channels and deactivates the catalyst surface due to electron-trapped effects by subsurface oxygen defects. How to effectively extract electrons from subsurface oxygen defects which cannot directly interact with reactants is challenging and remains elusive. Herein, we report a metallic In-embedded In2O3 nanoflake catalyst over which the turnover frequency of CO2 reduction into CO increases by a factor of 866 (7615 h-1) and 376 (2990 h-1) at same light intensity and reaction temperature, respectively, compared to In2O3. Under electron-delocalization effect of O-In-(O)Vo-In-In structural units at the interface, the electrons in the subsurface oxygen defects are extracted and gather at surface active sites. This improves the electronic coupling with CO2 and stabilizes COOH intermediate. The study opens up new insights for exquisite electronic manipulation of oxygen defects.
Identification of RPSA as a Potential Biomarker in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Xia Yang , Gao Lei , Guo Lili , Li Hao , Shao Min , Yang Qigang , Liu Nian , Fang Ming , Xu Hui , Li Jiajin , Gu Hao , Zhao Hui , Sun Gengyun , Zhang Ling
Published: December 2021

BackgroundAcute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition leading to severe pulmonary injuries, and proteomic analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) might elucidate potential biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for treatment of ARDS. MethodsThrough iTRAQ analysis, we investigated paired BALF samples from three ARDS patients in the acute and recovery phases. The proteins sharing the same expression patterns between the two ARDS phases among different patients were determined as co-upregulated and co-downregulated proteins (CUDPs), and differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), whose fold change > 1.2 and P value < 0.05, were selected from CUDPs. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were applied to determine the enriched functions and pathways of the CUDPs. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was generated at STRING database, and hub genes were identified by the Cytoscape software. A549 cells were treated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to simulate alveolar epithelial cells in ARDS.ResultsWe identified 374 CUDPs and 53 DEPs. The GO analysis indicated that the most significantly enriched function was neutrophil mediated immunity response, and the KEGG analysis revealed that the 374 CUDPs were most significantly enriched in Coronavirus disease COVID-19 interaction. RPSA was discovered as the most top hub gene among DEPs, and was downregulated at protein levels during ARDS recovery. Moreover, we further confirmed that both RNA and protein level of RPSA increased upon inflammatory stimulation in vitro.ConclusionOur results proposed RPSA as a candidate for biomarker and therapeutic target of ARDS.
Compilation of Drilling Load Spectrum Based on the Characteristics of Drilling Force
Authors: Jin Tongtong , Yan Chuliang , Guo Jinyan , Chen Chuanhai , Zhu Dong
Published: December 2021

In order to overcome the problem that the existing methods of compiling load spectrum of spindle or machine tool mainly aim at the cutting force spectrum, torque spectrum and speed spectrum respectively, which ignore the connection between each spectrum, in this paper, a method for compiling drilling load spectrum of motorized spindle in CNC machine tool based on the characteristics of drilling force is proposed. Firstly, drilling tests under different processing technologies are carried out to measure its load, and the correction coefficient in the empirical formula of drilling force is obtained through fitting the measured drilling force, which makes the calculation of the axial force and torque more reasonable. Secondly, compared with the extended factor method, the transcendental probability method is optimized to solve the ultimate load of the axial force. Then, after setting the axial force as the main load of drilling, an eight-stage load spectrum for the main load is compiled. Finally, according to the relationship between the axial force and other loads, the eight-stage loading spectrum is transformed into a multi-dimensional drilling load spectrum.
Severe, But Not Moderate Asthmatics Share Blood Transcriptomic Changes With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder And Depression.
Authors: Haas-Neill Sandor , Dvorkin-Gheva Anna , Forsythe Paul
Published: December 2021

Asthma, an inflammatory disorder of the airways, is one of the most common chronic illnesses worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity. There is growing recognition of an association between asthma and mood disorders including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Although there are several hypotheses regarding the relationship between asthma and mental health, there is little understanding of underlying mechanisms and causality. In the current study we utilized publicly available datasets of human blood mRNA collected from patients with severe and moderate asthma, MDD, and PTSD. We performed differential expression (DE) analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) on diseased subjects against the healthy subjects from their respective datasets, compared the results between diseases, and validated DE genes and gene sets with 4 more independent datasets. Our analysis revealed that commonalities in blood transcriptomic changes were only found between the severe form of asthma and mood disorders. Gene expression commonly regulated in PTSD and severe asthma, included ORMDL3 a gene known to be associated with asthma risk and STX8, which is involved in TrkA signalling. We also identified several pathways commonly regulated to both MDD and severe asthma. This study reveals gene and pathway regulation that potentially drives the comorbidity between severe asthma, PTSD, and MDD and may serve as foci for future research aimed at gaining a better understanding of both the relationship between asthma and PTSD, and the pathophysiology of the individual disorders.
Targeting Galectin 3 to Counteract Spike-Phase Uncoupling of Fast-Spiking Interneurons to Gamma Oscillations in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Arroyo-García Luis Enrique , Bachiller Sara , Boza-Serrano Antonio , Rodríguez-Moreno Antonio , Deierborg Tomas , Andrade-Talavera Yuniesky , Fisahn André
Published: December 2021

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive multifaceted neurodegenerative disorder for which no disease-modifying treatment exists. Neuroinflammation is central to the pathology progression, with evidence suggesting that microglia-released galectin 3 (gal3) plays a pivotal role by amplifying neuroinflammation in AD. However, possible involvement of gal3 in the disruption of cognition-relevant neuronal network oscillations typical of AD remains unknown. Methods: Here, we investigate the functional implications of gal3 signaling on cognition-relevant gamma oscillations (30-80 Hz) by performing electrophysiological recordings in hippocampal area CA3 of wild-type (WT) and 5xFAD mice in vitro. Results: Gal3 application decreases gamma oscillation power and rhythmicity in an activity-dependent manner and is accompanied by impairment of cellular dynamics in fast-spiking interneurons (FSN) and pyramidal cells (PCs). We found that gal3-induced disruption is mediated by the gal3-carbohydrate-recognition domain and prevented by the gal3 inhibitor TD139, which also prevents Aβ42-induced degradation of gamma oscillations. Furthermore, we demonstrate that 5xFAD mice lacking gal3 (5xFAD-Gal3KO) exhibit WT-like gamma network dynamics.Conclusions: We report for the first time that gal3 impairs cognition-relevant neuronal network dynamics by spike-phase uncoupling of FSN inducing a network performance collapse. Moreover, our findings suggest gal3 inhibition as a potential therapeutic target to counteract the neuronal network instability typical of AD and other neurological disorders encompassing neuroinflammation and cognitive decline.
Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Brain Function During the Natural Course in a Dental Pulp Injury Model
Authors: Yu Feiyan , Li Miao , Wang Qianqian , Wang Jing , Wu Shuang , Zhou Rui , Jiang Han , Li Xiaoyi , Zhou Yu , Yang Xi , He Xiao , Cheng Yan , Ren Xiuyun , Zhang Hong , Tian Mei
Published: December 2021

Purpose Toothache, a common disorder afflicting most people, shows distinct features at different clinical stages. This study aimed to depict metabolic changes in brain and investigate the potential mechanism involved in the aberrant affective behaviors during the natural process of toothache. Methods We investigated the spatiotemporal patterns of brain function during the natural course of toothache in a rat model of dental pulp injury (DPI) by using positron emission tomography (PET). Results Glucose metabolism peaked on the 3rd day and gradually decreased in several brain regions after DPI, which was in line with the behavioral and histological results. PET imaging showed visual pathway was involved in the regulation of toothache. Meanwhile, the process of emotional regulation underlying toothache was mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartic receptor subunit 2B (NR2B) in the caudal anterior cingulate cortex (cACC). Conclusion Our results revealed the spatiotemporal neurofunctional patterns during toothache process and preliminarily elucidated the role of NR2B in cACC in the regulation of toothache-related affective behaviors.
Study on Chip Formation in Grinding of Nickel-Based Polycrystalline Superalloy GH4169
Authors: Zhu Tao , Cai Ming , Gong Yadong , Gao Xingjun , Yu Ning , Li Xiang
Published: December 2021

Based on the variation of the actual cutting depth during the grinding process, a 3D finite element (FE) simulation model for grinding nickel-based superalloy GH4169 with single abrasive was initially constructed. Then the morphological evolution of the grinding chips during the grinding process was studied. In addition, the effect of the single abrasive cutting depth and the grinding speed on chip morphology and segmentation frequency was investigated. Finally, experimental results with the same test parameters verify the finite element simulation results. The results showed that in the experimental grinding speed range, the sawtooth lamellar chip with the free surface being serrated and the contact surface being smooth due to the extrusion of the abrasive is easy to produce when grinding nickel-based superalloy GH4169. As the grinding speed increases, the chip morphology changes from a unitary lamellar chip to a continuous serrated chip, developing into a continuous ribbon chip. The chip segmentation frequency is mainly determined by grinding depth and grinding speed. To be specific, the smaller the grinding depth and the greater the grinding speed, the greater the chip formation frequency.
Applicability of Endobronchial Ultrasound and Virtual Bronchoscopic Navigation Combined with Rapid On-Site Evaluation in Diagnosing Peripheral Lung Lesions
Authors: Qi Jia-Chao , Liao Liping , Zhao Zhiwei , Zeng HuiXue , Wang Tiezhu , Hu Miaofen , Wang LiJv , Wu Zhi , Ye Yuming , Ou Yangwu , Cai Zhiming , Wu Qiyin , Xu Qiaozhen , Zhang Weiliang , Huang Wensen , Li Hao , Lin Li
Published: December 2021

Background

To investigate the value of endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) and virtual bronchoscopic navigation (VBN) combined with rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) in diagnosing peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs).
Methods

Between January 1st 2019 to September 1st 2021, EBUS and VBN examination were performed in 250 consecutive patients with PPLs who were admitted to Zhangzhou Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University (Fujian, China). Finally, 198 eligible patients were randomly divided into ROSE group (100 cases) and non-ROSE group (98 cases). The diagnostic yield of brushing and biopsy, the complications, the procedure time, the diagnosis time and expense during diagnosis were analyzed.
Results

In the ROSE group, the positive rate of EBUS brushing and biopsy were 68%, 84%, repectively. The average procedure time and diagnosis time were 18.6 ± 6.8 min, 3.84 ± 4.28 days, repectively, and the average expense was 4093.15 ± 4494.67 yuan. In the controls, the positive rate of brushing and biopsy were 44%, 74%, repectively. The average procedure time and diagnosis time were 15.4 ± 5.7 min, 6.46 ± 3.66 days, repectively. And the average expense during diagnosis was 6420.28 ± 4541.33 yuan. There was significant difference in the positive rate of EBUS brushing and biopsy, diagnosis time and expense during diagnosis between both groups. And no significant difference was observed in the complications and the procedure time. Additionally, the impact of ROSE on diagnostic yield in right upper lobe and the size of lesion ≤2 cm in diameter was significant.
Conclusion

In combination with ROSE, EBUS could significantly improve the positive rate of diagnosing PPLs, shorten diagnosis time and reduce expense during diagnosis. ROSE will be of great importance in the diagnosis of PPLs and medical resource.
Geodetic Landmarks Soil Loss Susceptibility Using RUSLE and Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Silveira Leonard Niero da , Nascimento Víctor Fernandez , Casagrande Fernanda , de Souza Sergio Florencio , Ometto Jean Pierre Henry Balbaud
Published: December 2021

Geodetic landmarks (GLs) are essential for obtaining the precise height, horizontal coordinates, and the Earth's gravity field. Once physically implanted on the surface, they are susceptible to movement and displacement. This study aims to assess the soil susceptibility of GLs for past and future scenarios through the Revised Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE). So the soil loss estimations were made for the GLs in Brazil's southern Santa Catarina region. Our results showed average soil loss values, reaching 175915 t/ha/year, while the GLs were 2109 t/ha/year. There was an increase in GLs in the null class, mainly caused by urban infrastructure increase. At the same time, a decrease occurred in the low, very severe, severe, and moderate classes. In contrast, for future scenarios, an increase in the GLs average soil loss was found until 2100. However, it is essential to highlight that the most relevant increase occurred in the 2021-2040 period. After that, some scenarios as ssp126 remained stable, ssp245 and ssp370 slightly increased while ssp585 increased the most, reaching a maximum value of 2364 t/ha/year until 2100. There are a stability in the null class with a little decreasing in the low and moderate classes. In severe and very severe classes, there are a increase in the almost all scenarios. This behavior take account only the rainfall, thus for a better analysis, would be necessary the forecast of land cover change. Therefore, the climate simulations can be used to understand the effects of climate change on soil erosion to support decision-making.
A4GALT Mediated the Glycosylation of B7-H3 in Human Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Li Fuchao , Han Dan , Chen Mengxi , Li Jingmei , Yang Li , Wang Weipeng , Yu Chenggong
Published: December 2021

B7-H3 is one of the most important members of the B7/CD28 family, and its expression level is abnormally high in a variety of tumors. B7-H3 inhibits T cell activation via binding to the corresponding receptors on T cells, thereby mediating tumor immune escape. Glycosylation is a common post-translational modification of proteins, which plays an essential role in protein expression patterns and biological functions. Current evidence has shown that the abnormal glycosylation of B7-H3 in tumors is of great significance for protein expression and ligand-receptor binding. Therefore, in-depth exploration of the underlying mechanism of glycosylation modification of B7-H3 is expected to provide new insights for tumor immunotherapy. To investigate the underlying mechanism of glycosyltransferase-mediated glycosylation of B7-H3. Firstly, the CHIPBase database was used to screen glycosyltransferases with a high correlation with the protein expression of B7-H3. Then their siRNAs were designed and synthesized to transfect into cells, and the western blotting assay was performed for further screening. Secondly, the siRNA and overexpression plasmid of the screened glycosyltransferase were respectively transfected into cells to verify the effect on the expression level of B7-H3. Thirdly, the effect of glycosyltransferase on the expression level of B7-H3 was explored by changing its substrate level. Finally, the co-immunoprecipitation experiment was conducted to verify whether protein binding existed between B7-H3 and the glycosyltransferase. The glycosyltransferase called A4GALT had the highest correlation with the protein expression of B7-H3. After knocking down or overexpressing A4GALT, the protein expression level of B7-H3 both changed significantly. When knocked down GALT to reduce the galactosyl donors, B7-H3 was significantly down-regulated. And B7-H3 was up-regulated while increasing the galactose in the medium. In addition, the Co-immunoprecipitation experiment proved that there was protein binding between B7-H3 and A4GALT. A4GALT can positively regulate the expression of B7-H3, and changing the level of galactosyl donors can also positively regulate the expression of B7-H3. There is a protein interaction between A4GALT and B7-H3.
Reference genome-assisted identification of stem rust resistance gene Sr62 encoding a tandem kinase
Authors: Yu Guotai , Matny Oadi , Champouret Nicolas , Steuernagel Burkhard , Moscou Matthew J. , Hernández-Pinzón Inmaculada , Green Phon , Hayta Sadiye , Smedley Mark , Harwood Wendy , Kangara Ngonidzashe , Yue Yajuan , Gardener Catherine , Banfield Mark J. , Olivera Pablo D. , Welchin Cole , Simmons Jamie , Millet Eitan , Minz-Dub Anna , Ronen Moshe , Avni Raz , Sharon Amir , Patpour Mehran , Justesen Annemarie F. , Jayakodi Murukarthick , Himmelbach Axel , Stein Nils , Wu Shuangye , Poland Jesse , Ens Jennifer , Pozniak Curtis , Karafiátová Miroslava , Molnár István , Doležel Jaroslav , Ward Eric R. , Reuber T Lynne , Jones Jonathan D. G. , Mascher Martin , Steffenson Brian J. , Wulff Brande B. H.
Published: December 2021

The wild relatives and progenitors of wheat have been widely used as sources of disease resistance (R) genes. Molecular identification and characterization of these R genes facilitates their manipulation and tracking in breeding programmes. We developed a reference-quality genome assembly of the wild diploid wheat relative Aegilops sharonensis and used positional mapping, mutagenesis, RNA-Seq and transgenesis to identify the stem rust resistance gene Sr62, which was also transferred to common wheat. This gene encodes a tandem kinase, homologues of which exist across multiple taxa in the plant kingdom. Stable Sr62 transgenic wheat lines showed high levels of resistance against diverse isolates of the stem rust pathogen, highlighting the utility of Sr62 for deployment as part of a polygenic stack to maximize the durability of stem rust resistance.
Zeolite-X Encapsulated Ni(II) and Co(II) Complexes with 2,6-Pyridine Dicarboxylic Acid as Catalysts for Oxidative Degradation of Atenolol in an Aqueous Solution
Authors: Hassani Fatemeh , Sharif Mahboubeh A. , Tabatabaee Masoumeh , Mahmoodi Mahboobeh
Published: December 2021

Complexes of Co (II) and Ni (II) with dipicolinic acid, 2,6-pyridine dicarboxylic acid (PydcH2) have been synthesized in the NaX (zeolite-X) nanopores. The formation of zeolite X encapsulated Co(II) and Ni(II) complexes ([M(pydcH)2]-NaX, where M = Co(II) and Ni(II]) were confirmed using spectroscopic methods of FT-IR, elemental analysis, XRD, FE-SEM, and TEM. It was affirmed that the encapsulation of complexes in NaX pores was performed without changes in the structure and shape of the zeolite. The oxidative degradation reaction of atenolol with hydrogen peroxide as an oxidant was performed in the presence of synthesized [M(pydcH)2]-NaX nanocomposites to study their catalytic activity. Therefore, oxidation of atenolol was performed under different conditions of catalyst, temperature, and time. Under optimal conditions, catalysts [Co(pydcH)2]-NaX and [Ni(pydcH)2]-NaX showed 82.3% and 71.1% activity of atenolol oxidation, respectively. These catalysts were stable after recovery and were used three more times. The results showed that these catalysts were reusable and had a reduction in the catalytic activity of less than ten percent.
BNT162b2 boosted immune responses six months after heterologous or homologous ChAdOx1nCoV-19/BNT162b2 vaccination against COVID-19
Authors: Behrens Georg , Barros-Martins Joana , Cossmann Anne , Ramos Gema Morillas , Stankov Metodi , Odak Ivan , Dopfer-Jablonka Alexandra , Hetzel Laura , Köhler Miriam , Patzer Gwendolyn , Binz Christoph , Ritter Christiane , Friedrichsen Michaela , Schultze-Florey Christian , Ravens Inga , Willenzon Stefanie , Bubke Anja , Ristenpart Jasmin , Janssen Anika , Ssebyatika George , Bernhardt Günter , Hoffmann Markus , Pöhlmann Stefan , Krey Thomas , Bosnjak Berislav , Hammerschmidt Swantje , Forster Reinhold
Published: December 2021

Reports suggest that COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness is decreasing, either due to waning immune protection, emergence of new variants of concern, or both. Heterologous prime/boost vaccination with a vector-based approach (ChAdOx-1nCov-19, ChAd) followed by an mRNA vaccine (e.g. BNT162b2, BNT) appeared to be superior in inducing protective immunity, and large scale second booster vaccination is ongoing. However, data comparing declining immunity after homologous and heterologous vaccination as well as effects of a third vaccine application after heterologous ChAd/BNT vaccination are lacking. We longitudinally monitored immunity in ChAd/ChAd (n=41) and ChAd/BNT (n=88) vaccinated individuals and assessed the impact of a second booster with BNT in both groups. The second booster greatly augmented waning anti-spike IgG but only moderately increased spike-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in both groups to cell frequencies already present after the boost. More importantly, the second booster efficiently restored neutralizing antibody responses against Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta, but neutralizing activity against B.1.1.529 (Omicron) stayed severely impaired. Our data suggest that inferior SARS-CoV-2 specific immune responses after homologous ChAd/ChAd vaccination can be cured by a heterologous BNT vaccination. However, prior heterologous ChAd/BNT vaccination provides no additional benefit for spike-specific T cell immunity or neutralizing Omicron after the second boost.
Characterization of Virulence Factors in Enterotoxin-Producing Staphylococcus Aureus From Bulk Tank Milk
Authors: Jung Hye-Ri , Lee Young Ju
Published: December 2021

Background: Staphylococcus aureus, a persistent and chronic mastitis-causing pathogen, produces various virulence factors, including enterotoxins. This study analyzed the genetic characteristics of bovine mastitis-related virulence factors to evaluate potential pathogenesis in S. aureus isolated from bulk tank milk.Results: Among 93 S. aureus isolates from 396 dairy farms in six factories operated by three dairy companies in Korea, 40 (43.0%) isolates carried at least one or more enterotoxin genes and there were significant differences between factories within the same company (p < 0.05). Moreover, S. aureus carrying enterotoxin genes showed a higher prevalence in all virulence genes tested in this study except for pvl and lukM, which were not detected in any isolate, than the isolates without enterotoxin genes. In particular, the prevalence of six genes (hla, hlb, lukED, fnbA, clfA, and clfB) was significantly higher in S. aureus carrying enterotoxin genes than isolates without enterotoxin genes (p < 0.05). The most common multilocus sequence type (ST) of 40 enterotoxin-producing isolates was ST188, and all isolates of ST188 harbored the see gene. However, none of the isolates of ST1 and ST72 carried the see gene, and all isolates of ST1 carried the seh gene.Conclusions: Although S. aureus isolated from bulk tank milk, not from mastitis, had a high prevalence of enterotoxins and virulence factors simultaneously, posing a public health threat. Moreover, high enterotoxins in bulk tank milk may be reflected by poor hygiene; therefore, it is important to develop strong monitoring and sanitation programs to ensure that dairy factories produce hygienic milk.