bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acyloxyacyl hydrolase deficiency induces chronic inflammation and bone loss in male mice
Authors: Cheng Xu , Song Xiaoting , Li Zhiyan , Yuan Chiting , Lei Xinhuan , Feng Mingxuan , Hong Zhenghua , Zhang Liwei , Hong Dun
Published: March 2022

Hormonal homeostasis is essential in bone remodeling. Recent studies have shown that the treatment of intestinal inflammation can result in the regulation of bone resorption in distant bones. Increased intestinal permeability may lead to systemic inflammation and bone loss, also known as gut-bone axis. However, the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a component of gram-negative bacteria that can increase osteoclastic differentiation in vitro. Acyloxyacyl hydrolase (AOAH) is a specific degrading enzyme of LPS, but little is known about the role of AOAH in bone metabolism. In this study, Adult Aoah−/− mice showed a chronic inflammatory state and osteopenic phenotype analyzed by micro-CT and HE staining. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining of femurs showed an increase in TRAP-positive cells from Aoah−/− mice. AOAH depletion enhanced the osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption capacity of BMMs. The enhanced osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption capacity of Aoah−/− BMMs were reversed by rAOAH. In conclusion, the chronic inflammatory state of adult Aoah−/− mice promotes bone resorption. AOAH participates in bone metabolism, which is mainly mediated by inhibiting osteoclast differentiation. LPS may be a key mediator of the gut-bone axis, and targeting AOAH may represent a feasible strategy for the treatment of chronic inflammatory bone resorption.
First DNA barcode efficiency assessment for an important ingredient in the Amazonian ayahuasca tea: mariri/jagube, Banisteriopsis (Malpighiaceae)
Authors: Luz Thalita Zanquetta , Cunha-Machado Antonio Saulo , Batista Jacqueline Silva da Silva
Published: March 2022

Mariri or jagube (Banisteriopsis spp.) is a vine of the Malpighiaceae family naturally found in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. It is also an important ingredient of ayahuasca tea used by some traditional, indigenous people and religious groups of Amazonian origin. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of six markers such as DNA barcode to access genetic diversity and use them in the identification of either ethnovarieties or species of Banisteriopsis spp. used in the preparation of ayahuasca in the Amazon. The efficiency of three plastid genes (matK, ndhF, and rcbL) and three nuclear markers (MP3 and yage5 isolated in the present study and ITS - Internal Transcribed Spacer) were tested. For these six markers, a total of 4,792 base pairs were sequenced. The plastid markers identified that all the samples analyzed belong to the genus Banisteriopsis; however, they presented the lowest indices of genetic diversity and were not efficient for use in the identification of ethnovarieties. Nuclear DNA markers showed the highest levels of genetic diversity. The ITS showed the highest values of genetic distances between the identified lineages. This study demonstrates that the use of ITS for DNA barcoding was more efficient since the identified lineages showed correspondence with the ethnovarieties of Banisteriopsis spp. used in the preparation of ayahuasca. We encourage new integrative studies like this one, which combines modern approaches and traditional knowledge, to contribute to the maintenance of traditional knowledge as well as the conservation of species.
Successful initial high-dose tofacitinib treatment for acute severe ulcerative colitis with steroid resistance: A case series
Authors: Komeda Yoriaki , Kono Masashi , Kashida Hiroshi , Tribonias George , Masaki Sho , Takada Ryutaro , Nagai Tomoyuki , Hagiwara Satoru , Nishida Naoshi , Takenaka Mamoru , Honjo Hajime , Matsui Shigenaga , Tsuji Naoko , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: March 2022

BackgroundThe standard therapy for acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is intravenous corticosteroids; however, 30% of UC patients do not recover with corticosteroids alone. Infliximab or cyclosporin is indicated to decrease the rates of colectomy of hospitalized ASUC patients. Although a previous study showed that moderate to severe UC had a rapid response to tofacitinib, few studies have reported the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib for ASUC.We report a case series of successful first-line treatment consisting of high-dose tofacitinib (20 mg/day) administered to ASUC patients with steroid resistance. Case presentationPatients diagnosed with ASUC at our institution between October 2018 and February 2020 were retrospectively evaluated. They were administered high dose of tofacitinib (20 mg) after they had no response to steroid therapy comprising a dose of 1 to 1.5 mg/kg/day. This study included a total of eight patients with ASUC. There were four (50%) men and four (50%) women with a median age of 47.1 years (range, 19–65 years). All patients had a median UC duration of 4 years (range, 0–20 years). Four patients had no previous history of UC.A clinical response was observed in six of the eight patients before they experienced remission. Six patients were able to avoid colectomy. One patient (patient 2) had no response; however, remission was achieved after switching from tofacitinib to infliximab. One patient (patient 6) with no response to tofacitinib underwent total colectomy. When we used tofacitinib during induction and the follow-up phase, only one patient (patient 4) experienced a major adverse event, herpes zoster, which was treated with acyclovir without stopping tofacitinib. ConclusionClinical remission can be achieved with high probability and colectomy can be avoided by administering high-dose tofacitinib to steroid-resistant ASUC patients.
Registration of ‘Krib'New Lentil variety in Tunisia
Authors: Ouji Ali
Published: March 2022

In Tunisia, lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus subsp. culinaris) is cultivated in arid and semi-arid areas. Terminal drought and heat stresses during the end of cycle causes significant yield losses. Selection of short cycle varieties could be the best option to escape the effect of pre cited abiotic factors. 'krib’ was developed using both modified pedigree and bulk methods by INRAT in collaboration with ICARDA. It's a selection from an advanced F9 line, FLIP2012 196L, which was derived from a cross of ILL590 (early- maturing genotype) with ILL8113 (drought tolerant). During the three consecutive cropping seasons (2014–2017), the increase in yield of 'krib' above that of the local checks was about 13 and 15% for 'kef' and 'Boulifa', respectively. 'Krib' is an early-flowering (on average ~ 93 d) and early-maturing (on average ~ 138 d) variety. It's therefore, the earliest variety among the previously released varieties. Its dehulled seed has a protein content of 26.8% which was above that of 'Kef' (23.9%) .'Krib' showed good agronomic performance under drought conditions and large adaptation for the Tunisian environments. Tested as ILL11171, 'Krib' was approved for release and registered in the Tunisian Official Catalogue of Plant Varieties in 2019, based on the superior performance, by the DG/PCQPA, Tunisia. The availability of 'Krib' variety to farmers could increase lentil production and offers the producer a profitable benefit in their cropping systems.
An optimized method for the isolation of urinary extracellular vesicles for molecular phenotyping: detection of biomarkers for radiation exposure
Authors: Hinzman Charles P , Jayatilake Meth , Bansal Sunil , Fish Brian L , Li Yaoxiang , Zhang Yubo , Bansal Shivani , Girgis Michael , Iliuk Anton , Xu Xiao , Fernandez Jose A , Griffin John H , Ballew Elizabeth A , Unger Keith , Boerma Marjan , Medhora Meetha , Cheema Amrita K
Published: March 2022

Background: Urinary extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a source of biomarkers with broad potential applications across clinical research, including monitoring radiation exposure. A key limitation to their implementation is minimal standardization in EV isolation and analytical analysis methods. Further, most urinary EV isolation protocols necessitate large volumes of sample. This study aimed to compare and optimize isolation and analytical methods for EVs from small volumes of urine.Methods: 3 EV isolation methods were compared: ultracentrifugation, magnetic bead-based, and size-exclusion chromatography from 0.5 mL or 1 mL of rat and human urine. EV yield and mass spectrometry signals (Q-ToF and Triple Quad) were evaluated from each method. Metabolomic profiling was performed on EVs isolated from the urine of rats exposed to ionizing radiation 1-, 14-, 30- or 90-days post-exposure, and human urine from patients receiving thoracic radiotherapy for the treatment of lung cancer pre- and post-treatment.Results: Size-exclusion chromatography is the preferred method for EV isolation from 0.5 mL of urine. Mass spectrometry-based metabolomic analyses of EV cargo identified biochemical changes induced by radiation, including altered nucleotide, folate, and lipid metabolism. We have provided standard operating procedures for implementation of these methods in other laboratories.Conclusions: We demonstrate that EVs can be isolated from small volumes of urine and analytically investigated for their biochemical contents to detect radiation induced metabolomic changes. These findings lay a groundwork to develop future methods to monitor response to radiotherapy and can be extended to an array of molecular phenotyping studies aimed at characterizing EV cargo.
Low-dose versus standard-dose computed tomography-guided core needle biopsy for lung nodules: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Er-Liang , Ma Ai-Li , Wang Tao , Fu Yu-Fei , Liu Han-Yang , Li Guang-Chao
Published: March 2022

Background
To assess relative safety and diagnostic performance for low- and standard-dose computed tomography (CT)-guided core needle biopsy (CNB) for lung nodules (LNs).
Materials and Methods
This is a prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) from a single-center. From June 2020 to December 2020, consecutive patients with LNs were randomly assigned into low- or standard-dose groups. The primary outcome was diagnosis accuracy, while secondary outcomes encompassed technical success, diagnostic yield, operative time, radiation dose, and CNB-related complications. This RCT was listed within ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04217655), registered 3 January 2020.
Results
A total of 200 patients were randomly assigned to low-dose (n = 100) and standard-dose (n = 100) groups. All patients achieved technical success of CT-guided CNB and the definite final diagnoses. No significant difference was found for operative times (n = 0.231) between 2 groups. The mean dose-length product was markedly reduced within low-dose group in comparison to standard-dose group (34.6 ± 11.1 vs. 351.4 ± 107.4 mGy-cm, P < 0.001). Within low-dose group, the diagnostic yield, sensitivity, specificity, and diagnosis accuracy were 68%, 91.5%, 100%, and 94%, respectively. Within standard-dose group, the diagnostic yield, sensitivity, specificity, and diagnosis accuracy were 65%, 88.6%, 100%, and 92%, respectively. There were no significances in diagnostic yield (P = 0.653) and diagnostic accuracy (P = 0.579) between 2 groups. No significant differences within rates of pneumothorax (P = 0.836) and lung hemorrhage (P = 0.744) between 2 groups were observed.
Conclusions
Compared with standard-dose CT-guided CNB for LNs, low-dose CT can significantly reduce radiation dose, while yield comparable safety and diagnostic accuracy.
Association of polymorphisms in the erythropoietin gene with diabetic retinopathy: a case-control study and systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Sesti Luís Fernando Castagnino , Sbruzzi Renan Cesar , Polina Evelise Regina , Soares Douglas dos Santos , Crispim Daisy , Canani Luís Henrique , Santos Kátia Gonçalves dos
Published: March 2022

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is characterized by ischemia, hypoxia, and angiogenesis. Erythropoietin (EPO), an angiogenic hormone, is upregulated in DR, and the association of EPO genetic variants with DR is still uncertain, as conflicting results have been reported. Therefore, we performed a case-control study followed by a meta-analysis to investigate whether the rs1617640, rs507392, and rs551238 polymorphisms in EPO gene are associated with DR. Methods: The case-control study included 1042 Southern Brazilians with type 2 diabetes (488 without DR and 554 with DR). Eligible studies for the meta-analysis were searched from electronic databases up to June 1, 2021. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for five genetic inheritance models. Results: The minor alleles of the EPO polymorphisms had nearly the same frequency in all groups of patients (35%), and no association was detected with DR in the case-control study. The meta-analysis included 14 independent sets of cases and controls with 9117 subjects for the rs1617640 polymorphism and nine independent sets with more than 5000 subjects for the rs507392 and rs551238 polymorphisms. The G allele of the rs1617640 polymorphism was associated with DR under the dominant (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.68-0.98), heterozygous additive (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69-0.97) and overdominant (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.79-0.97) models. In the subgroup analyses, the G allele was also associated with DR among patients with type 1 diabetes or non-Asian ancestry. Regarding the rs507392 and rs551238 polymorphisms, no association was found between these variants and DR. Conclusion: Our findings provide additional support to EPO as a susceptibility gene for DR, with the rs1617640 polymorphism deserving further investigation.
The Clinical Significance of BRAFV600E Mutations in Pediatric Papillary Thyroid Carcinomas
Authors: Li Yangsen , Wang Yuanyuan , Li Liwen , Qiu Xinguang
Published: March 2022

Objectives
This study aimed to review the clinical significance of BRAFV600E mutations in pediatric papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).
Methods
From 2018 to 2021, 392 pediatric thyroid operations were performed in our hospital. Of these, 169 patients underwent their first operation in our hospital and were histopathologically diagnosed as papillary thyroid carcinoma. BRAFV600E gene mutation detection was performed in these 169 pediatric patients to investigate the correlation between BRAF gene mutations and clinicopathological features.
Results
Ninety-seven of our 169 patients had a BRAFV600E mutation, with a mutation rate of 57.4%. The incidence of BRAFV600E was higher in boys than in girls, and in the 13–18-year age group as compared with the 6–12-year age group (P < 0.05). The positivity rate of BRAFV600E in unilateral PTC (67.7%) was significantly higher than that in bilateral PTC (28.9%). The occurrence of diffuse microcalcification of the thyroid negatively correlated with the presence of BRAFV600E mutations. BRAFV600E mutations were found more frequently in patients with smaller tumor size, a lack of multifocality, lower TSH levels and central lymph node metastasis. During the follow-up time, 70 patients were treated with iodine-131. Eight patients required a second surgery (All had cervical lymph node recurrence).
Conclusion
BRAFV600E mutations do not suggest a more aggressive course in papillary thyroid carcinoma in pediatric patients in the short term.
Shared medical appointments in English primary care for long-term conditions: a qualitative study of the views and experiences of patients, primary care staff and other stakeholders
Authors: Graham Fiona , Martin Helen , Lecouturier Jan , O'Donnell Amy , Tang Mei Yee , Jackson Katherine , Sniehotta Falko , Kaner Eileen
Published: March 2022

Background
Shared medical appointments (SMAs) or group consultations have been promoted in primary care to improve workload pressures, resource-use efficiency and patient self-management of long-term conditions (LTCs). However, few studies have explored stakeholders’ perspectives of this novel care delivery model in the English NHS context, particularly patients’ views about consultations involving other people with similar conditions.
Method
This qualitative study was conducted with 21 patients, 17 primary care staff, 2 commissioners, and 2 SMA training providers in the North East and North Cumbrian region of England. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore the perspectives of stakeholders with and without SMA experience from a range of geographical and socio-economic backgrounds. Thematic analysis was conducted to examine perceptions around impact on patient care and outcomes and barriers and facilitators to implementation.
Results
Three main themes were identified: ‘Value of sharing’, ‘Appropriateness of group setting’, ‘Implementation processes’. Patients and staff with SMA experience enjoyed the novelty and informality of SMAs, with some patients reporting that they felt less isolated and more motivated to self-care. Concerns were raised about the appropriateness of SMAs for sharing personal information, particularly in close-knit communities where the risk of breaching confidentiality was perceived to be greater. Patients and staff were uncertain whether the group setting benefitted all, believing SMAs suited some patients more than others. Whilst staff anticipated that SMAs could deliver high quality care more efficiently than 1:1 appointments, none of the practices had evaluated the impact SMAs had on patient outcomes or staff time. Staff reported difficulties ‘selling’ SMAs to patients and low patient attendance at subsequent SMAs.
Conclusion
Newly diagnosed patients and those with limited SMA experience could enjoy and benefit from the added value that peer presence provides during SMAs. Patient intention to attend an SMA appears to be influenced by their existing level of interest in self-care, social support, group work anxiety and the presence of known others in the group. Further research is needed to clarify which patients, health conditions and circumstances are most appropriate for SMAs, and what implications they have for health inequalities.
Experimental Study of Al-Modified Zeolite with Oxygen Nanobubbles in Repairing Black and Odorous Sediments in River Channels
Authors: Chao Guo , Huanyuan Wang , Yulu Wei , Biao Peng , Xiaoxiao Shu
Published: March 2022

As an extreme phenomenon of water pollution, black and odorous water not only causes ecological damage, but also severely restricts urban development. At present, the in-situ remediation technology of black and odorous sediment from river channels is still undeveloped, and there are many bottlenecks in the key technologies of black and odorous sediment pollution control and ecological restoration. In this study, three experimental tanks are used to explore the effects of Al-modified zeolite with oxygen nanobubbles on repairing black and odorous sediment from Shichuan river. Which one of the tanks plants Typha orientalis and Canna indica L. (TC), the other plants the same plants and adds Al-modified zeolite with oxygen nanobubbles (TC+AMZON), and the last used as comparison test is not processed (CS). The results show that Nitrogen(N) and phosphorus(P) in the sediment are released violently to the surrounding water. However, TC+AMZON can effectively inhibit the release of P. The amount of soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) of pore water in the sediment released reaches the maximum at 40 d, and it is 122.97% and 74.32% bigger in TC and CS than that in TC+AMZON. The amount of total phosphorus (TP) of pore water in the sediment released reaches the maximum at 70 d, and it is 260.14% and 218.23% bigger in TC and CS than that in TC+AMZON, respectively. (2) TC+AMZON can significantly increase the dissolved oxygen (DO) and oxidation-reduction potential(ORP) of pore water in the sediment in the early stage of the test. On the 0 d, the DO content in TC+AMZON reaches 10.6 mg/L, and it is 112.0% and 178.95% bigger than that in TC and CS, respectively. The change laws of ORP in the sediment is consistent with that of DO. (3) TC+AMZON can significantly improve the transparency and reduce the content of chlorophylla of the upper water, and can slightly reduce the N and P content of the upper water. The transparency of the upper water in TC+AMZON is increased by 130.76% and 58.73% compared with TC and CS, and the content of chlorophylla is decreased by 55.6% and 50.0% compared with TC and CS.
Lignin nanoparticles for sustainable and biodegradable packaging films
Authors: Hararak Bongkot , Winotapun Charinee , Prakymoramas Natcha , Klinsukhon Wattana , Wijaranakul Pawarisa
Published: March 2022

A simple, green, and scalable procedure to manufacture spherical lignin nanoparticles is demonstrated in this work. Softwood kraft lignin (S-lignin) was fractionated using acetone which was recoverable and reused in the following step to produce lignin nanoparticles (S-LNPs). Deionized water was used as anti-solvent to precipitate S-LNPs under ultrasonication. The size of S-LNPs was found to be in the range from 40-300 nm with an average of 120±18 nm. S-LNPs had lower ash content at 0.05% as compared to 1.22% of S-lignin. More importantly, S-LNPs had significant increased phenolic to aliphatic hydroxyl ratio. Home-composable polybutylene succinate (PBS) was selected to develop sustainable materials for flexible film applications. Composite films of PBS/S-lignin and PBS/S-LNPs were manufactured via conventional blown film melt-extrusion. Both composite films appeared brownish. At 0.5 wt% loading content, the PBS/S-LNPs composite films possessed comparable mechanical properties to the neat PBS film with several advantages including (a) a superb UV-blocking ability of 69% and 64% enhancement in shielding of UV-B and UV-A, respectively; (b) retardation of thermo-oxidative reaction with 42 % improvement in onset oxidative temperature; and (c) antibacterial activity (R) values of 2.5 for gram-negative (E. coli ATCC8739) and 1.5 for gram-positive (S. aureus ATCC 6538p). For a meaningful approach in fully biodegradable and sustainable plastic products, the spherical lignin nanoparticles produced in this work can be alternative multifunctional bio-additives for UV protection, antioxidation and antibacterial applications.
Regular smoking of male ancestors in adolescence and fat and lean mass in young adult grandchildren and great-grandchildren
Authors: Gregory Steven , Suderman Matthew , Northstone Kate , Pembrey Marcus , Watkins Sarah , Iles-Caven Yasmin , Golding Jean
Published: March 2022

Our previous studies using the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) have shown that if men started smoking before the onset of puberty their sons, their granddaughters and great-granddaughters were more likely to have excess fat mass during childhood, adolescence and early adulthood. Here we assess associations between ancestral smoking during adolescence (ages 11-16years) with fat and lean mass of subsequent generations at ages 17 and 24. We found associations between adolescent smoking of the paternal grandfather and the adjusted fat mass of their grandchildren, but no associations with lean mass. Grandchildren at age 17 had an average excess fat mass of + 1.65 [95% CI + 0.04, + 3.26] Kg, and at age 24 an average excess of + 1.55 [95% CI -0.27, + 3.38] Kg. Adolescent smoking by the maternal grandfather showed similar, but weaker, associations: at 17 average excess fat mass of + 1.02 Kg [95% CI -0.20, + 2.25] Kg, and at 24 average excess of + 1.28 [95% CI -0.11, + 2.66] Kg. There were no significant differences between the sexes of the children. For the great-grandparents there were few convincing results. Confirmation of these associations is required, either in a further data set or by demonstrating the presence of supportive biomarkers.
A Lagrangian-Eulerian procedure for the coupled solution of the Navier-Stokes and shallow water equations for landslide-generated waves
Authors: Masó Miguel , Franci Alessandro , de-Pouplana Ignasi , Cornejo Alejandro , Oñate Eugenio
Published: March 2022

This work presents a partitioned method for landslide-generated wave events. The proposed strategy combines a Lagrangian Navier Stokes multi-fluid solver with an Eulerian method based on the Boussinesq shallow water equations. The Lagrangian solver uses the Particle Finite Element Method to model the landslide runout, its impact against the water body and the consequent wave generation. The results of this fully-resolved analysis are stored at selected interfaces and then used as input for the shallow water solver to model the far-field wave propagation. This one-way coupling scheme reduces drastically the computational cost of the analyses while maintaining high accuracy in reproducing the key phenomena of the cascading natural hazard. Several numerical examples are presented to show the accuracy and robustness of the proposed coupling strategy and its applicability to large-scale landslide-generated wave events. The validation of the partitioned method is performed versus available results of other numerical methods, analytical solutions and experimental measures.
Study of the dehydroacetic acid homolog by IR, Raman spectroscopy, and DFT
Authors: Furer Victor Lvovich , Vandyukov Alexandr , Nomerotskaya Ekaterina , Mukhtarova Mariyam , Kovalev Vladimir , Kovalenko Valery
Published: March 2022

The IR and Raman spectra of 3-(3,3-Dimethylbutanoyl)-4-hydroxy-6-neopentyl-2H-pyran-2-one (1) in the crystalline state have been studied. The tautomerization of 1 was carried out by a quantum-chemical method at the DFT/B3LYP/6-311G** level. The experimental IR and Raman spectra of compound 1 are reproduced by calculations for the 4-hydroxy enol tautomer (A). The classification of the bands in the experimental vibrational spectra of 1 has been carried out. The intramolecular H-bond was characterized by IR spectroscopy. The free energies of the tautomers and their populations were calculated for two different solvents. HOMO and LUMO of molecule 1 are located on the pyran ring. During tautomeric transformations, there is a significant delocalization of charge and a change in the reactivity of the molecule. The reactivity of the pyrone 1 was characterized using descriptors. The enol form B was found to have higher ionization energy, electron affinity, chemical potential, and electrophilic index than the enol A form. The dipole moment is higher for form A, and the softness of the two molecules is the same.
Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs) in water and sediments along the Udu River, Niger Delta, Nigeria: concentration, distribution and risk assessment
Authors: Iniaghe Paschal , Kpomah Enyohwo
Published: March 2022

In this study, the concentration, distribution, ecological and health risk assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in water and sediment samples from Udu River, Niger Delta Nigeria, was assessed. Water and sediment samples were collected at five different points along the course of the River, which were in proximity to human population. Water samples were liquid-liquid extracted using a mixture of n-hexane and dichloromethane, while sediment samples were soxhlet extracted using acetone/dichloromethane/n-hexane mixture. Extracted PCB congeners were quantified using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. The results revealed that only PCB-167 was detected in water samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.02–1.86 mg L − 1. For sediment samples, the concentration of Ʃ29PCBs ranged from 5.34 to 16.1 ng g − 1. The determined PCB concentrations in both water and sediment samples were within regulatory limits. The concentration of dioxin-like PCBs (dl-PCBs) ranged from 1.07–5.36 ng g − 1. The toxic equivalence values for dl-PCBs varied between 0.0065–0.018, which were within the sediment quality guideline value of 0.0215 ng g− 1. The calculated health risk assessment values were below the respective risk values for non-cancer and cancer risk evaluations. The results suggest minimal ecological and potential risk linked with exposure to PCBs in water and sediments from Udu River.
Visualizing RNA polymers produced by hot wet-dry cycling
Authors: Hassenkam Tue , Deamer David
Published: March 2022

It is possible that the transition from abiotic systems to life relied on RNA polymers that served as ribozyme-like catalysts and for storing genetic information. The source of such polymers is uncertain, but previous investigations reported that wet–dry cycles simulating prebiotic hot springs provide sufficient energy to drive condensation reactions of mononucleotides to form oligomers and polymers. The aim of the study reported here was to verify this claim and visualize the products prepared from solutions composed of single mononucleotides and 1:1 mixture of two mononucleotides. Therefore, we designed experiments that allowed comparisons of all such mixtures representing six combinations of the four mononucleotides of RNA. We observed irregular stringy patches and crystal strands when wet-dry cycling was performed at room temperature (20 o C). However, when the same solutions were exposed to wet–dry cycles at 80 o C, we observed what appeared to be true polymers. Their thickness was consistent with RNA-like products composed of covalently bonded monomers, while irregular strings and crystal segments of mononucleotides dried or cycled at room temperature were consistent with structures assembled and stabilized by weak hydrogen bonds. In a few instances we observed rings with short polymer attachments. These observations are consistent with previous claims of polymerization during wet–dry cycling. We conclude that RNA-like polymers and rings could have been synthesized non-enzymatically on the prebiotic Earth, with sizes sufficient to fold into ribozymes and genetic molecules required for life to begin.
Rib and sternal lesions in pediatric Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis
Authors: Ezeokoli Ekene , Schlehr Eva , Mitchell Parker , Borici Neritan , Montgomery Nicole
Published: March 2022

BackgroundLangerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disorder characterized by proliferation and tissue infiltration of dendritic cells, most commonly occurring in children. Though it can occur in any organ, it often manifests as skeletal lesions with rib and sternal lesions being common. Due to its ubiquitous nature, LCH lesions can be located in various sites or anatomical systems, however, few studies have characterized and reviewed the eventual outcomes after treatment of isolated rib and sternal LCH lesions, especially in regards to treatment and long-term sequelae. We aimed to characterize unifocal and multifocal skeletal LCH lesions in the rib and sternum to determine the success and recurrence rates with different treatment modalities in a pediatric population at a tertiary children's hospital.MethodsA retrospective analysis found 11 patients younger than 18 years old with a diagnosis of unifocal or multifocal LCH lesions of the rib or sternum. Clinical presentations, lesion sites, additional skeletal lesions, biopsy site, radiographic findings, treatments, recurrence rates, and length of follow-up were reviewed and recorded. ResultsEleven patients were found to have unifocal or multifocal LCH lesions involving the rib or sternum (6 males and 5 females). The median age at diagnosis was 7.3 years (0.85-11.8). Three patients (27%) had their lesions resected surgically, all in unifocal cases. All patients had a lytic bone lesion on radiograph, with 3 (27%) pathological fractures. One patient had a local wide excision, one had intralesional curettage, and one patient did not have surgical methodology available. The only unifocal case that did not have a resection was treated with a steroid injection only. All other cases were multifocal and were treated with chemotherapy. There were two cases of recurrence, with both occurring in the multifocal group. Median length of follow-up was 3.4 years (0.36-13.1).ConclusionOur study found that surgical resection with intralesional corticosteroid injection is an appropriate option for unifocal rib and sternal LCH lesions, while rib lesions that are part of a multifocal presentation may be managed adequately with chemotherapy alone. Surgical curettage, resection with intralesional steroid therapy may also be adequate for single-system multifocal skeletal lesions that are anatomically accessible and small in number and size.
The impact of combined PD-L1 positive score on clinical response to nivolumab in patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Matsubara Yuki , Toriyama Kazuhiro , Kadowaki Shigenori , Ogata Takatsugu , Nakazawa Taiko , Kato Kyoko , Nozawa Kazuki , Narita Yukiya , Honda Kazunori , Masuishi Toshiki , Bando Hideaki , Ando Masashi , Tajika Masahiro , Oze Isao , Hosoda Waki , Muro Kei
Published: March 2022

PurposeNivolumab is recommended for patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (aESCC) who are refractory or intolerant to fluoropyrimidine-based and platinum-based chemotherapy regardless of tumor proportion score (TPS). However, the predictive role of combined positive score (CPS) to predict nivolumab efficacy is unclear.MethodsWe retrospectively collected data from patients with aESCC, who were previously treated with fluoropyrimidines and platinum, and subsequently received nivolumab monotherapy between January 1, 2014 and September 15, 2020. Next, we examined the impact of CPS and TPS on clinical response to nivolumab. The inclusion criteria were refraction or intolerance to fluoropyrimidines and platinum, absence of comorbid malignancies, availability of tissue specimen for immunohistochemistry and programmed cell death-1 analysis results before initiating nivolumab.ResultsFifty patients were included (CPS, ≥ 10/1–10/< 1, n = 23/18/9; TPS, ≥ 10/1–10/< 1%, n = 17/8/25). The median progression-free survival were 4.1, 2.5, and 1.4 months in CPS ≥ 10, 1–10 (hazard ratio [HR] vs. CPS ≥ 10, 1.05; p = 0.90), and < 1 (HR vs. CPS ≥ 10, 3.75; p = 0.003) groups, respectively. Furthermore, among the patients with CPS ≥ 10/1–10/< 1, and TPS ≥ 10/1–10/< 1%, objective response rate were 32/25/0% and 36/0/19%. In addition, disease control rate were 63/50/11% (p = 0.04) and 65/40/38% (p = 0.30).ConclusionsThis study proposes that CPS can predict responses to nivolumab in patients with aESCC better than TPS, making it especially useful for predicting negative outcomes for those with CPS < 1.
Identification of lactate metabolism-related genes for glioma metabolic reprogramming
Authors: Zhou Dong , Mao Rui , Yin Lei , Lin Han , Zheng Jiantao , Yang Yong , Wang Peng , Lv Guangzhao
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Alternation in the metabolic mechanism of tumor cells and immune cell infiltration in the tumor area leads to the formation of glioma immunosuppressive microenvironment, which promotes tumor immune escape and limits the efficacy of glioma immunotherapy. Our study aimed to identify lactate-metabolism-related molecules involved in the reprogramming of glioma metabolic pathways and to explore whether they could be potential targets for glioma. Methods: Based on the screening criteria of |logFC|>1, adjusted p < 0.05, and multivariate Cox regression analysis, we identified differentially expressed lactate metabolism-related genes (LMGs) in gliomas and depicted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and nomogram to evaluate its clinical predictive performance. Then, we studied the regulation of LMGs in the tumor microenvironment and their reliability as potential targets for glioma therapy. Results: LDHB, PKM, ICAM3, and PDK1 were closely associated with the prognosis of glioma patients. The involvement of these four LMGs in the reprogramming of glioma metabolism led to lactate accumulation in the tumor microenvironment, which reduced the sensitivity of patients in the high-risk group to immunotherapy. Conclusion: Remodeling the glioma immunosuppressive microenvironment via targeting LMGs may improve the responsiveness of T cell immunotherapy, which becomes a new and improved alternative for glioma treatment.
Interleukin 20 receptor subunit beta（IL20RB） predicts poor prognosis and regulates immune cell infiltration in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Haoxun , Liu Yiewen , Wang Bowen , Wang Chunyang
Published: March 2022

Background and objectiveEmerging evidence has proven the robust role of tumor mutation burden (TMB) and immune cell infiltration (ICI) in cancer immunotherapy. However, the precise effect of TMB and ICI on clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains elusive and merits further investigation. Therefore, we aimed to identify the TMB-related genes in predicting prognosis and to explore the potential mechanisms of the identified Interleukin 20 receptor subunit beta (IL20RB) in ICI in ccRCC.MethodThe relative information of patients with ccRCC was obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database (TCGA). Immune-related genes were downloaded from the Immunology Database and Analysis Portal database. Cox regression analysis was used to identify prognosis-related immune genes for ccRCC. The relationship of IL20RB expression levels with clinicopathological parameters was analyzed using the “limma” and “survival” packages. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) databases were used as external validation. Quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to validate the expression levels of IL20RB in tumor cells. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to examine the effect of IL20RB on the viability of ccRCC cells. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was introduced for the analysis of IL20RB-related signaling pathways. Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and Tumor and Immune System Interaction Database (TISIDB) were utilized to determine the correlation of IL20RB expression levels with tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs). ResultsIL20RB was significantly overexpressed in different ccRCC tissues and cells. High IL20RB expression in ccRCC patients was associated with short overall survival, high tumor grade, and advanced TNM stage. After knockdown of IL20RB with small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology, ccRCC cells’ proliferation was significantly attenuated. Moreover, overexpression of IL20RB could increase the infiltration level of several immune cells, especially T follicular helper cells (Tfh), and overexpressed Tfh cells were correlated with poor prognosis in ccRCC.ConclusionsIL20RB may function as an immune-associated therapeutic target for it determines cancer progression and regulates immune cell infiltration in ccRCC.
Effect of flunixin meglumine on pain associated with cautery disbudding on dairy goat kids
Authors: MARTINEZ Gabriela Marcela , Suarez Victor Humberto , Hempstead Melissa , Alfaro Emilio , Alfaro José , Caro Luis Colque
Published: March 2022

At 7 days of age, 30 goat kids were randomly allocated to three groups: Sham (Sh) control, (i.e., simulating disbudding); Disbudding (Di), using thermal cauterization; Disbudding + Flunixin (DiFl), thermal cauterization + flunixin meglumine (2.2 mg/kg body weight). Each kid was video-recorded for 30 min before and after treatment to evaluate the frequency of head shaking, head scratching, body shaking, grooming, head rubbing, jumping, running, and bleating. Blood samples were taken 30 minutes after disbudding to evaluate serum cortisol concentrations and white blood cell count. Heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR) were measured using a stethoscope. Liveweight of goat kids was recorded at birth, the day before and 7 days after treatment, and at 25 days of age. The mean frequency of behaviors, such as head shaking (Sh: 3.42 ± 3.58; Di: 37.5 ± 47.8; DiFl: 4.02 ± 2.76) and head scratching (Sh: 2.2 ± 1.8; Di: 33.32 ± 31.2; DiFl: 4.42 ± 3.72) after treatment (corrected by pre-treatment values) were higher (p = 0.0001) in Di than in Sh and DiFl, and the frequency of jumping was higher (p = 0.022) for Di (3.74 ± 2.24) than that of DiFl (0.39 ± 0.92). The remaining behaviors did not show differences (p > 0.05). HR and RR were higher (HR: p < 0.0048; RR: p < 0.035) in group Di (HR: 156 ± 13.6; RR: 66 ± 14.8) than in Sh (HR: 138 ± 8.48; RR: 55.6 ± 5.4) and in DiFl (HR: 136 ± 6.38; RR: 52.8 ± 4.13). No differences were detected between liveweight, white blood cell count data (p > 0.05). Based on the results, it appears that flunixin meglumine reduced pain associated with disbudding and improves animal welfare.
Gyrodactylus heteracanthus n. sp. (Polyonchoinea: Gyrodactylidae), a parasite of the canivete, Characidium rachovii Regan, 1913 (Characiformes: Crenuchidae) from Southern Brazil
Authors: SILVA TAINÃ G. , BRANCHI SABRINA D. , VIANNA ROGÉRIO T.
Published: March 2022

Gyrodactylus heteracanthus n. sp. is described from the body surface of Characidium rachovii from a stream in southern Brazil. This is the first report of Gyrodactylus found in C. rachovii from Brazil. Gyrodactylus heteracanthus n. sp. resembles most closely Gyrodactylus carolinae, parasitic of Characidium spp., by presence of male copulatory organ, with a row of 4–6 spinelets, with peripherals spinelets larger than central. The new species differs from G. carolinae by hooklets with a straight shaft and short point that never reaches toe limit, rounded shield, and deep bar with subterminal projections. The intraspecific variation (ITS rDNA) of G. heteracanthus n. sp. is 0.1–0.2%, and the genetic distance from G. carolinae is 7.8–8.0% followed by Gyrodactylus teken and Gyrodactylus pakan, which are also parasitic species of Astyanax aeneus (14.7–18.4%). Morphological features and molecular data support the status of new species for G. heteracanthus n. sp. and place it close to Gyrodactylus, a parasitic host of cyprinodontiforms.
Barriers and Facilitators to Attending and Being Physically Active during Recreation Time among Women Incarcerated
Authors: Camplain Ricky , Williamson Heather J. , Pinn Travis A. , Shuman Sara , Robinson Bethany M. , Evans Maribeth , Luna Crystal
Published: March 2022

Background: Most women incarcerated in jail are not physically active and do not attend recreation time (rec-time), a time dedicated to being physically active, outside. The purpose of this study was to determine barriers and facilitators to attending and being physically active during rec-time among women incarcerated in jail. Methods: We recruited and distributed a cross-sectional questionnaire to 100 women incarcerated at the Coconino County Detention Facility (CCDF) in Flagstaff, Arizona from March to July 2020. Women were asked about their experience with rec-time at CCDF, including if they had ever attended, how often they attended, if they exercised at rec-time, activities they participated in, and motivators, barriers, and benefits to attend rec-time. Results: Among 99 women who completed the questionnaire, 89% had ever attended rec-time. Most women identified environmental- and health-related motivators to attending rec-time including enjoying natural light (74%), getting fresh air (83%), a change in environment (62%), and to move around and exercise (72%). Many women indicated environmental-, equipment-, clothing, and motivation-related barriers to attending rec-time. Specifically, women believed there was a lack of equipment (56%) and limited access to proper footwear (49%). Conclusions: As health and environment are important motivators and barriers to being physically active among women incarcerated in jail, it is important to identify appropriate environmental and policy interventions to increase the use of rec-time and physical activity. If a correctional facility does not offer rec-time or a similar alternative, one should be established, accessible, and welcoming.
Ultrafiltration for homogenization of wheat germ oil:water system: Droplet size distribution and stability of emulsion
Authors: Lai Quoc Dat , Doan Ngoc Thuc Trinh , Nguyen Hoang Dung , Huynh Thi Thuy Loan
Published: March 2022

Wheat germ oil (WGO) in water emulsion is increasingly being used in a variety of fields due to its outstanding nutritional and health benefits. To enhance WGO composability, emulsification should be performed to allow them to dissolve more easily in the food matrix or active packaging. Membrane emulsification is a promising advanced homogenization technology that has recently been developed. This research focused on application of membrane emulsification for homogenization of WGO-in-water emulsion polyether sulfone (PESU) membrane with 0.45 µm of pore size, operating pressure from 5 to 9 bar, with WGO fraction in range 10 – 20% w/w and lecithin ratio in range 0 – 0.2% w/v were evaluated on the mean of particle diameter, distribution of particles diameter, stability of emulsion, and permeate flux. Higher operating pressure led to smaller mean particle diameters, higher homogenization efficiency and permeate flux. However, increasing the WGO fraction showed the opposite trend. Notably, increasing lecithin ratio from 0 to 0.2%, the mean particle diameter increased from 3.36 to 7.72 µm, homogenization efficiency decreased from 98.54 to 97.68%, and permeate flux decreased from 105.95 to 77.45 L.h-1.m-2. The results showed the advantage of using PESU membrane in WGO-in-water homogenization, that produce emulsions with small particle size (50% of particle volume was less than 5µm), high emulsion stability (greater than 95%) and lower emulsifier usage. Results imply premix membrane emulsification is potential to apply homogenization WGO-in-water emulsion.
Observations of Teaching during Patient Care across Clerkships: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Clay Alison , Smothers Zachary , Allen Deborah Hutchinson , Andolsek Kathryn M. , Truong Tracy , Kim Heewon , Knudsen Nancy W.
Published: March 2022

Background: Bedside teaching is fundamental to clinical education, providing opportunities for teaching and assessment, but is rarely evaluated or compared across students’ experiences. Our purpose was to evaluate key differences in teaching practices between required clerkships.Methods: This is a mixed-methods observational study at Duke University designed to compare teaching concurrent with patient care on required medical student clerkships. A checklist to catalogue teaching during rounds was developed based on the literature of teaching best practices, including number of patients seen, time per patient, length and number of student presentations, observed opportunities for student assessment using entrustable professional activities (EPA), learning climate, and teaching by preceptors. Non-quantitative data about teaching practices were captured as field notes, then organized into best practices for faculty development.Results: Between January 2017 and June 2019, 42 separate teaching episodes were observed for 66 student presentations. All observations were analyzed qualitatively and 35 inpatient rounding observations were analyzed quantitatively. Most rounds (44.1%) were “at bedside,” 38.2% of discussions occurred in a conference room, and 17.6% used a combination. Time/patient ranged from a median of 4.5 minutes-15.0 minutes. Only the surgery clerkship taught at the bedside. No statistically significant differences in teaching skill or learning climate across clerkships were observed. Procedural services (Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology) had shorter median time/patient (5.0 min vs 14.6 min, p=0.002), shorter student presentations (2.0 min vs 4.0 min, p=0.017) and fewer interruptions (0 vs. 1, p=0.024) than non-procedural services (Neurology, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, Psychiatry). Student discussion of management plans was observed more on procedural services while student skills with history, physical exams, and differential diagnosis were observed more on non-procedural services. Conclusions: Significant variation in teaching exists across clerkships; differences might be harnessed by distributing student responsibilities and EPA evaluations and across clerkships.