bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracing Nutrients and Organic Matter Changes in Eutrophic Wenchang (China) and Oligotrophic Krka (Croatia) Estuaries: A Comparative Study
Authors: Hao You-You , Zhu Zhuo-Yi , Fang Fu-Tao , Novak Tihana , Čanković Milan , Hrustić Enis , Ljubešić Zrinka , Li Ming , Du Jin-Zhou , Zhang Rui-Feng , Gašparović Blaženka
Published: August 2021

Estuaries modify the concentration and composition of riverine nutrients and organic matter (OM), which eventually determine the riverine flux effect to coasts. Nutrients, organic carbon (OC), pigments, and amino acids (AAs) from the samples collected in the eutrophic Wenchang River Estuary (WRE) in China and the oligotrophic Krka River Estuary (KRE) in Croatia were analyzed in order to have a better understanding of how estuaries regulate terrestrial materials. We found a clear increase of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) concentration and its subsequent decrease due to the removal of DIN (over 100 μM) in the WRE, whereas DIN showed minor variation lengthwise in the KRE, i.e., with the salinity changes, ranging between 1.0 and 5.8 μM. The elevated algae-derived OC, dissolved organic nitrogen, and particulate AAs nitrogen suggest that the OM assimilation may explain approximately one-third of the DIN removal in the WRE, whereas in the oligotrophic KRE, such inorganic to organic transformation is not likely to be significant. Due to the prominent estuarine nitrogen removal/assimilation process, DIN/dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) ratio was as high as 425 in the upper WRE under strong riverine influence, but it declined to as low as 5.4 at the mouth of WRE, that is even lower than DIN/DIP ratio at the mouth of oligotrophic KRE (12). When compared with other rivers worldwide, the Wenchang River showed high nutrients and organic carbon yields. Given the contrasting estuarine process (e.g., DIN removal) between the KRE and the WRE, apparent high nutrient yield from eutrophic rivers should be viewed with caution in ocean studies as the final impact to coastal zone could be similar to the oligotrophic rivers like the KRE.
River Jets Versus Wave-Driven Longshore Currents at River Mouths
Authors: Zăinescu Florin , Anthony Edward , Vespremeanu-Stroe Alfred
Published: August 2021

At river mouths, fluvial jets and longshore currents (LSCs) generated by waves interact hydrodynamically. This idealized numerical modeling study simulates a large number of hydro-morphodynamic conditions (650) to explore the emergent hydrodynamics determined by different mouth bar volumes and geometries, river discharge, wave heights, and directions and their potential stress on river-mouth development. We find that in the absence of a river-mouth bar (RMB), interactions are driven by momentum balances, expressed either as the balance of wave momentum flux (Mw) and jet momentum flux (Mj), or the balance of river jet discharge (QJet) and longshore current discharge (QLSC). When a RMB is present, the topography modifies the structure of the jet by spreading it, and we quantify this mechanism through the lateral jet transfer rate (LJT). Secondly, topography generates complex longshore wave-driven circulation as a result of the protruding shoreface which serves as a platform on which counter LSCs develop. The balance in QJet/QLSC may be used as an indication of the type of circulation. High and oblique waves favor longshore circulation and RMB bypass, whereas low waves and normal-to-coast angles generate diverging LSCs on the mouth bar crest which interrupts the longshore circulation. A quantification of the dynamic diversion is proposed in the form of the non-dimensional Dynamic diversion index (DyD), which scales with the product of Mj and Mw, and can account for the absolute strength of hydrodynamic interactions occurring at river mouths. RMB morphology can affect DyD in multiple ways by strengthening or by weakening the interactions. The DyD effect seems to increase with increasing RMB size, indicating that the RMB scale regulates the interplay of the wave-driven circulation and the river jet which further controls the adjacent topography changes.
Effectiveness of Large-Scale Marine Protected Areas in the Atlantic Ocean for Reducing Fishing Activities
Authors: Magris Rafael Almeida
Published: August 2021

The implementation of large-scale marine protected areas (MPAs) depends upon scarce conservation resources, while their effects on biodiversity conservation are rarely assessed to date. Quantitative evaluations are necessary to assess the effectiveness of large-scale MPAs in enhancing ecosystem resilience, protecting biodiversity, and mitigating expanding threats. In this study, the effectiveness of large-scale MPAs, which are remotely managed and in offshore areas of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean (Brazil), was assessed concerning the occurrence of fishing activities within their boundaries before and after their implementation. Two sets of MPAs surrounding the São Pedro and São Paulo archipelago (SPSP) and the Trindade-Martin Vaz Islands (TMV) were established in early 2018, each comprising one no-take (i.e., fully-protected) and one multiple-use (i.e., partially-protected) area. For this assessment, I used satellite detections of Vessel Monitoring System transmission to quantify the fishing pressure (i.e., “likely fishing days”) from commercial fisheries spanning 5 years (2015–2019). I then derived three metrics – fishing area, intensity, and density – to compare fishing activity within each MPA and year. The results showed that the effectiveness of the multiple-use MPAs was variable and contrasting, with SPSP experiencing a reduction in the fishing intensity and area and TMV experiencing an increase in both measures. An inverted pattern was evident for the no-take MPAs: while the one in the SPSP region experienced an increase in the fishing density after its establishment following a squeeze factor, the no-take MPA in the TMV region observed a decrease in the fishing density when comparing years before and after MPA implementation. These outputs can support managers in planning the implementation of further conservation strategies, such as monitoring and enforcement plans, and the analyses here also contribute to enhancing our understanding on the implications and challenges of adopting large-scale MPAs in the offshore environment as a high-profile strategy of ocean conservation.
Carbon Quantum Dots for Biomedical Applications: Review and Analysis
Authors: Azam Nayab , Najabat Ali Murtaza , Javaid Khan Tooba
Published: August 2021

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a new type of nano-carbons that are currently favored over semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) because of their solubility, low toxicity, eco-friendliness, and cheap and facile synthesis giving desired optical characteristics. Moreover, their physiochemical properties can be controlled by their synthetic route. CQDs can emit fluorescence in the range from the UV to the near-infrared (NIR) region, making them suitable for biomedical applications. Fluorescence in these nano-carbon atoms can be tuned by varying the excitation wavelength. As of now, CQDs have been used in various applications such as in bioimaging, biosensing, electrochemical biosensing, drug delivery, gene delivery, photodynamic therapy in the treatment of cancers, pharmaceutical formulations, and treating inflammation. This article highlights the current progress and advancement of CQDs with focus on their synthetic routes, chemical and optical properties, and biomedical applications along with new perceptions in this interesting and promising field.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Cellular and Transcriptional Changes Associated With M1 Macrophage Polarization in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Mariottoni Paula , Jiang Simon W. , Prestwood Courtney A. , Jain Vaibhav , Suwanpradid Jutamas , Whitley Melodi Javid , Coates Margaret , Brown David A. , Erdmann Detlev , Corcoran David L. , Gregory Simon G. , Jaleel Tarannum , Zhang Jennifer Y. , Harris-Tryon Tamia A. , MacLeod Amanda S.
Published: August 2021

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by recurrent abscesses, nodules, and sinus tracts in areas of high hair follicle and sweat gland density. These sinus tracts can present with purulent drainage and scar formation. Dysregulation of multiple immune pathways drives the complexity of HS pathogenesis and may account for the heterogeneity of treatment response in HS patients. Using transcriptomic approaches, including single-cell sequencing and protein analysis, we here characterize the innate inflammatory landscape of HS lesions. We identified a shared upregulation of genes involved in interferon (IFN) and antimicrobial defense signaling through transcriptomic overlap analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in datasets from HS skin, diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), and the inflammatory stage of normal healing wounds. Overlap analysis between HS- and DFU-specific DEGs revealed an enrichment of gene signatures associated with monocyte/macrophage functions. Single-cell RNA sequencing further revealed monocytes/macrophages with polarization toward a pro-inflammatory M1-like phenotype and increased effector function, including antiviral immunity, phagocytosis, respiratory burst, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Specifically, we identified the STAT1/IFN-signaling axis and the associated IFN-stimulated genes as central players in monocyte/macrophage dysregulation. Our data indicate that monocytes/macrophages are a potential pivotal player in HS pathogenesis and their pathways may serve as therapeutic targets and biomarkers in HS treatment.
GLCCI1 Deficiency Induces Glucocorticoid Resistance via the Competitive Binding of IRF1:GRIP1 and IRF3:GRIP1 in Asthma
Authors: Hu Xinyue , Deng Shuanglinzi , Luo Lisha , Jiang Yuanyuan , Ge Huan , Yin Feifei , Zhang Yingyu , Zhang Daimo , Li Xiaozhao , Feng Juntao
Published: August 2021

GLCCI1 plays a significant role in modulating glucocorticoid (GC) sensitivity in asthma. This project determines the underlying mechanism that GLCCI1 deficiency attenuates GC sensitivity in dexamethasone (Dex)-treated Ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mice and epithelial cells through upregulating binding of IRF1:GRIP1 and IRF3:GRIP1. Dexamethasone treatment led to less reduced inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and activation of the components responsible for GC activity, as determined by decreased GR and glucocorticoid receptor interacting protein 1 (GRIP1) expression but augmented IRF1 and IRF3 expression in GLCCI1−/− asthmatic mice compared with wild type asthmatic mice. Moreover, the recruitment of GRIP1 to GR was downregulated, while the individual recruitment of GRIP1 to IRF1 and IRF3 was upregulated in GLCCI1−/− Dex-treated asthmatic mice compared to wild type Dex-treated asthmatic mice. We also found that GLCCI1 knockdown reduced GR and GRIP1 expression but increased IRF1 and IRF3 expression in Beas2B and A549 cells. Additionally, GLCCI1 silencing increased the interactions between GRIP1 with IRF1 and GRIP1 with IRF3, but decreased the recruitment of GRIP1 to GR. These studies support a critical but previously unrecognized effect of GLCCI1 expression on epithelial cells in asthma GC responses by which GLCCI1 deficiency reduces the GR and GRIP1 interaction but competitively enhances the recruitment of GRIP1 to IRF1 and IRF3.
Glaucoma Is Not Associated With Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Zhao Wenmei , Lv Xia , Wu Guangjie , Zhou Xia , Tian Helan , Qu Xiang , Sun Hongpeng , He Yingying , Zhang Yingyue , Wang Chuan , Tian Jinyong
Published: August 2021

Background: Previous studies evaluating the relationships of glaucoma with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia showed inconsistent results. We performed a meta-analysis of cohort studies to evaluate the association between glaucoma with incidence of AD, all-cause dementia, and non-AD dementia.

Methods: Cohort studies which evaluated the association between glaucoma with incidence of AD, all-cause dementia, and non-AD dementia in adult population with multivariate analyses were identified by systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane's Library databases. A random-effects model incorporating the potential intra-study heterogeneity was used for the meta-analysis.

Results: Eleven cohort studies including 4,645,925 participants were included. Results showed that compared to those without glaucoma at baseline, adult patients with glaucoma was not independently associated with increased incidence of AD [adjusted risk ratio (RR): 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.93–1.05, P = 0.55; I2 = 83%], all-cause dementia (adjusted RR: 1.08, 95% CI: 0.97–1.19, P = 0.15; I2 = 79%), or non-AD dementia (adjusted RR: 1.05 95% CI: 0.91–1.21, P = 0.49; I2 = 82%). Sensitivity analyses by excluding one study at a time did not significantly affect the results of the meta-analyses. Moreover, subgroup analyses showed consistent results in meta-analysis of prospective or retrospective cohort studies, and in meta-analysis of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma or primary angle-closure glaucoma (P-values for subgroup difference all > 0.05).

Conclusions: Current evidence from cohort studies did not support that glaucoma is an independent risk factor of AD, all-cause dementia, or non-AD dementia in adult population.
Two-Year Change in Blood Pressure Status and Left Ventricular Mass Index in Chinese Children
Authors: Li Zilin , Duan Yao , Zhao Min , Magnussen Costan G. , Xi Bo
Published: August 2021

Background: Elevated blood pressure (BP) is associated with target organ damage, such as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), in childhood. However, it is unclear if children who resolve elevated BP have reduced levels of left ventricular mass index (LVMI). This study aimed to examine the association between change in BP status over 2 years and LVMI among Chinese children.

Methods: Data were from 1,183 children aged 6–11 years at baseline in 2017 who were followed up in 2019 in the Huantai Childhood Cardiovascular Health Cohort Study. Change in BP status over 2 years from baseline to follow-up was categorized as: persistent normal BP, resolved elevated BP (elevated BP at baseline, normal BP at follow-up), incident elevated BP (normal BP at baseline, elevated BP at follow-up), and persistent elevated BP. Elevated BP status was defined according to national reference standards as systolic or diastolic BP levels ≥ sex-, age-, and height-specific 95th percentiles.

Results: LVMI levels were lowest in children with persistent normal BP (30.13 g/m2.7), higher in those with incident elevated BP (31.27 g/m2.7), and highest in those with persistent elevated BP (33.26 g/m2.7). However, LVMI levels in those who had resolved elevated BP (30.67 g/m2.7) were similar to those with persistent normal BP. In the fully adjusted model, compared with children with persistent normal BP, those with persistent elevated BP and incident elevated BP had higher LVMI at follow-up (ß = 3.131, p < 0.001; ß = 1.143, p = 0.041, respectively). In contrast, those who had resolved elevated BP did not have a significantly higher LVMI (ß = 0.545, p = 0.194) than those with persistent normal BP.

Conclusion: Developing or maintaining elevated BP over a 2-year period in childhood associated with higher levels of LVMI, but those able to resolve their elevated BP status over the same period had LVMI levels that were similar with those who had normal BP at both time points. Thus, it is important to identify children with elevated BP at early time and to take effective measures to lower their BP levels, thereby reducing high LVMI levels and related cardiovascular diseases in the future.
Virulent Drexlervirial Bacteriophage MSK, Morphological and Genome Resemblance With Rtp Bacteriophage Inhibits the Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Khan Muhammad Saleem Iqbal , Gao Xiangzheng , Liang Keying , Mei Shengsheng , Zhan Jinbiao
Published: August 2021

Phage-host interactions are likely to have the most critical aspect of phage biology. Phages are the most abundant and ubiquitous infectious acellular entities in the biosphere, where their presence remains elusive. Here, the novel Escherichia coli lytic bacteriophage, named MSK, was isolated from the lysed culture of E. coli C (phix174 host). The genome of phage MSK was sequenced, comprising 45,053 bp with 44.8% G + C composition. In total, 73 open reading frames (ORFs) were predicted, out of which 24 showed a close homology with known functional proteins, including one tRNA-arg; however, the other 49 proteins with no proven function in the genome database were called hypothetical. Electron Microscopy and genome characterization have revealed that MSK phage has a rosette-like tail tip. There were, in total, 46 ORFs which were homologous to the Rtp genome. Among these ORFs, the tail fiber protein with a locus tag of MSK_000019 was homologous to Rtp 43 protein, which determines the host specificity. The other protein, MSK_000046, encodes lipoprotein (cor gene); that protein resembles Rtp 45, responsible for preventing adsorption during cell lysis. Thirteen MSK structural proteins were identified by SDS-PAGE analysis. Out of these, 12 were vital structural proteins, and one was a hypothetical protein. Among these, the protein terminase large (MSK_000072) subunit, which may be involved in DNA packaging and proposed packaging strategy of MSK bacteriophage genome, takes place through headful packaging using the pac-sites. Biosafety assessment of highly stable phage MSK genome analysis has revealed that the phage did not possess virulence genes, which indicates proper phage therapy. MSK phage potentially could be used to inhibit the multidrug-resistant bacteria, including AMP, TCN, and Colistin. Further, a comparative genome and lifestyle study of MSK phage confirmed the highest similarity level (87.18% ANI). These findings suggest it to be a new lytic isolated phage species. Finally, Blast and phylogenetic analysis of the large terminase subunit and tail fiber protein put it in Rtp viruses’ genus of family Drexlerviridae.
Supporting Simultaneous Air Revitalization and Thermal Control in a Crewed Habitat With Temperate Chlorella vulgaris and Eurythermic Antarctic Chlorophyta
Authors: Matula Emily E. , Nabity James A. , McKnight Diane M.
Published: August 2021

Including a multifunctional, bioregenerative algal photobioreactor for simultaneous air revitalization and thermal control may aid in carbon loop closure for long-duration surface habitats. However, using water-based algal media as a cabin heat sink may expose the contained culture to a dynamic, low temperature environment. Including psychrotolerant microalgae, native to these temperature regimes, in the photobioreactor may contribute to system stability. This paper assesses the impact of a cycled temperature environment, reflective of spacecraft thermal loops, to the oxygen provision capability of temperate Chlorella vulgaris and eurythermic Antarctic Chlorophyta. The tested 28-min temperature cycles reflected the internal thermal control loops of the International Space Station (C. vulgaris, 9–27°C; Chlorophyta-Ant, 4–14°C) and included a constant temperature control (10°C). Both sample types of the cycled temperature condition concluded with increased oxygen production rates (C. vulgaris; initial: 0.013 mgO2 L–1, final: 3.15 mgO2 L–1 and Chlorophyta-Ant; initial: 0.653 mgO2 L–1, final: 1.03 mgO2 L–1) and culture growth, suggesting environmental acclimation. Antarctic sample conditions exhibited increases or sustainment of oxygen production rates normalized by biomass dry weight, while both C. vulgaris sample conditions decreased oxygen production per biomass. However, even with the temperature-induced reduction, cycled temperature C. vulgaris had a significantly higher normalized oxygen production rate than Antarctic Chlorophyta. Chlorophyll fluorometry measurements showed that the cycled temperature conditions did not overly stress both sample types (FV/FM: 0.6–0.75), but the Antarctic Chlorophyta sample had significantly higher fluorometry readings than its C. vulgaris counterpart (F = 6.26, P < 0.05). The steady state C. vulgaris condition had significantly lower fluorometry readings than all other conditions (FV/FM: 0.34), suggesting a stressed culture. This study compares the results to similar experiments conducted in steady state or diurnally cycled temperature conditions. Recommendations for surface system implementation are based off the presented results. The preliminary findings imply that both C. vulgaris and Antarctic Chlorophyta can withstand the dynamic temperature environment reflective of a thermal control loop and these data can be used for future design models.
Characterization of a Potent New-Generation Antimicrobial Peptide of Bacillus
Authors: Choyam Shilja , Jain Priyanshi M. , Kammara Rajagopal
Published: August 2021

An antimicrobial peptide [Bacillus antimicrobial peptide (BAMP)] produced by Bacillus paralicheniformis was isolated from the Indian traditional fermented food and characterized. The antimicrobial peptide BAMP showed many unique features such as thermostability (4.0–125°C), pH tolerance (pH 2.0–9.0), and resistance to physiological enzymes (trypsin, chymotrypsin, pepsin, proteinase K, protease, and catalase), and food-grade metal salts do not inhibit the activity. The broad spectrum of BAMP (antimicrobial activity) makes it a suitable candidate for food preservation as well as antimicrobial therapy. BAMP was found to exhibit a bacteriostatic effect on Salmonella typhi and controls the viability of Listeria monocytogenes in chicken meat efficiently. BAMP was found to establish eubiosis, as it is not antagonistic to Lactobacillus. Its non-hemolytic nature makes it suitable for therapy. Various genome prediction tools were adopted and applied to understand their localization, gene arrangement, and type of antimicrobials. Founded on its superior functional attributes, BAMP is a potent new-generation antimicrobial peptide.
SMPDL3B Predicts Poor Prognosis and Contributes to Development of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Qu Huiqing , Zhu Ye
Published: August 2021

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), characterized by the low cure rate and high relapse, urgently needs novel diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. Sphingomyelin Phosphodiesterase Acid Like 3B (SMPDL3B) is a negative regulator of Toll-like receptor signaling that plays important roles in the interface of membrane biology and innate immunity. However, the potential role of SMPDL3B in human cancer, especially in AML, is still unknown.

Methods: The expression of SMPDL3B in AML samples was investigated through data collected from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Association between SMPDL3B expression and clinicopathologic characteristics was analyzed with the chi-square test. Survival curves were calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Cox univariate and multivariate analyses were used to detect risk factors for overall survival. The biological functions of SMPDL3B in human AML were investigated both in vitro and in vivo.

Results: Expression of SMPDL3B mRNA was significantly upregulated in human AML samples and closely correlated to cytogenetics risk and karyotypes. Elevated expression of SMPDL3B was associated with poor overall survival and emerged as an independent predictor for poor overall survival in human AML. Blocked SMPDL3B expression inhibited AML cells growth both in vitro and in vivo via promoting cell apoptosis.

Conclusion: Taken together, our results demonstrate that SMPDL3B could be used as an efficient prognostic biomarker and represent a potential therapeutic target for human AML.
Inosine as a Tool to Understand and Treat Central Nervous System Disorders: A Neglected Actor?
Authors: Nascimento Francisney Pinto , Macedo-Júnior Sérgio José , Lapa-Costa Fernanda Rocha , Cezar-dos-Santos Fernando , Santos Adair R. S.
Published: August 2021

Since the 1970s, when ATP was identified as a co-transmitter in sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, it and its active metabolite adenosine have been considered relevant signaling molecules in biological and pathological processes in the central nervous system (CNS). Meanwhile, inosine, a naturally occurring purine nucleoside formed by adenosine breakdown, was considered an inert adenosine metabolite and remained a neglected actor on the purinergic signaling scene in the CNS. However, this scenario began to change in the 1980s. In the last four decades, an extensive group of shreds of evidence has supported the importance of mediated effects by inosine in the CNS. Also, inosine was identified as a natural trigger of adenosine receptors. This evidence has shed light on the therapeutic potential of inosine on disease processes involved in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Here, we highlight the clinical and preclinical studies investigating the involvement of inosine in chronic pain, schizophrenia, epilepsy, depression, anxiety, and in neural regeneration and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson and Alzheimer. Thus, we hope that this review will strengthen the knowledge and stimulate more studies about the effects promoted by inosine in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Quantitative Assessment of Abiotic Stress on the Main Functional Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Capacity of Wheatgrass at Different Seedling Age
Authors: Jiang Bianling , Gao Guizhen , Ruan Mengting , Bian Ying , Geng Fuyun , Yan Weiwei , Xu Xuehua , Shen Mengdie , Wang Jiafeng , Chang Ran , Xu Lisheng , Zhang Xingtao , Feng Fan , Chen Qiong
Published: August 2021

The wheat seedlings of 6 days old were daily subjected to ultraviolet irradiation (irradiating for 5, 10, 20, 40, and 60 min/day, respectively), Polyethylene glycol 6000 (5, 10, 15, 20, 25% in 1/2 Hoagland solution, respectively), and salinity solution (10, 25, 50, 100, 200 mM in 1/2 Hoagland solution, respectively), while the control group (CK) was supplied only with the Hoagland solution. The wheatgrass was harvested regularly seven times and the total soluble polysaccharides, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll, total polyphenol, total triterpene, total flavonoid, and proanthocyanins content were tested. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated through 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthia-zoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging ability, and ferric ion reducing power. Technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) mathematical model was adopted to comprehensively assess the functional phytochemicals of the different treatments. The results showed that the accumulation patterns of phytochemicals under abiotic stress were complex and not always upregulated or downregulated. The antioxidant activity and functional phytochemicals content of wheatgrass were significantly affected by both the stress treatments and seedling age, while the latter affected the chemicals more efficiently. The top five highest functional phytochemicals were observed in the 200 mM NaCl treated group on the 21st and 27th day, 25% PEG treated group on the 24th day, 200 mM NaCl treated group on the 24th day, and the group of 40 min/day ultraviolet exposure on 27th day.
Replacing Manual Planning of Whole Breast Irradiation With Knowledge-Based Automatic Optimization by Virtual Tangential-Fields Arc Therapy
Authors: Castriconi Roberta , Esposito Pier Giorgio , Tudda Alessia , Mangili Paola , Broggi Sara , Fodor Andrei , Deantoni Chiara L. , Longobardi Barbara , Pasetti Marcella , Perna Lucia , del Vecchio Antonella , Di Muzio Nadia Gisella , Fiorino Claudio
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To implement Knowledge Based (KB) automatic planning for right and left-sided whole breast treatment through a new volumetric technique (ViTAT, Virtual Tangential-fields Arc Therapy) mimicking conventional tangential fields (TF) irradiation.

Materials and Method

A total of 193 clinical plans delivering TF with wedged or field-in-field beams were selected to train two KB-models for right(R) and left(L) sided breast cancer patients using the RapidPlan (RP) tool implemented in the Varian Eclipse system. Then, a template for ViTAT optimization, incorporating individual KB-optimized constraints, was interactively fine-tuned. ViTAT plans consisted of four arcs (6 MV) with start/stop angles consistent with the TF geometry variability within our population; the delivery was completely blocked along the arcs, apart from the first and last 20° of rotation for each arc. Optimized fine-tuned KB templates for automatic plan optimization were generated. Validation tests were performed on 60 new patients equally divided in R and L breast treatment: KB automatic ViTAT-plans (KB-ViTAT) were compared against the original TF plans in terms of OARs/PTVs dose-volume parameters. Wilcoxon-tests were used to assess the statistically significant differences.

Results

KB models were successfully generated for both L and R sides. Overall, 1(3%) and 7(23%) out of 30 automatic KB-ViTAT plans were unacceptable compared to TF for R and L side, respectively. After the manual refinement of the start/stop angles, KB-ViTAT plans well fitted TF-performances for these patients as well. PTV coverage was comparable, while PTV D1% was improved with KB-ViTAT by R:0.4/L:0.2 Gy (p < 0.05); ipsilateral OARs Dmean were similar with a slight (i.e., few % volume) improvement/worsening in the 15–35 Gy/2–15 Gy range, respectively. KB-ViTAT better spared contralateral OARs: Dmean of contralateral OARs was 0.1 Gy lower (p < 0.05); integral dose was R:5%/L:8% lower (p < 0.05) than TF. The overall time for the automatic plan optimization and final dose calculation was 12 ± 2 minutes.

Conclusions

Fully automatic KB-optimization of ViTAT can efficiently replace manually optimized TF planning for whole breast irradiation. This approach was clinically implemented in our institute and may be suggested as a large-scale strategy for efficiently replacing manual planning with large sparing of time, elimination of inter-planner variability and of, seldomly occurring, sub-optimal manual plans.
Spinal Cord Stimulation as Treatment for Cancer and Chemotherapy-Induced Pain
Authors: Sheldon Breanna L. , Bao Jonathan , Khazen Olga , Pilitsis Julie G.
Published: August 2021

Neuropathic pain is a rampant disease exacting a significant toll on patients, providers, and health care systems around the globe. Neuromodulation has been successfully employed to treat many indications including failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), phantom limb pain (PLP), radiculopathies, and intractable pelvic pain, among many others. Recent studies have also demonstrated efficacy for cancer-related pain and chemotherapy induced neuropathy with these techniques. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is the most commonly employed technique and involves implantation of percutaneous or paddle leads targeting the dorsal columns of the spinal cord with the goal of disrupting the pain signals traveling to the brain. Tonic, high frequency, and burst waveforms have all been shown to reduce pain and disability in chronic pain patients. Closed-loop SCS systems that automatically adjust stimulation parameters based on feedback (such as evoked compound action potentials) are becoming increasingly used to help ease the burden placed on patients to adjust their programming to their pain and position. Additionally, dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRGS) is a newer technique that allows for dermatomal coverage especially in patients with pain in up to two dermatomes. Regardless of the technique chosen, neuromodulation has been shown to be cost-effective and efficacious and should be given full consideration in patients with chronic pain conditions.
Meta-Analysis for the Prediction of Mortality Rates in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Using Different Scores: PRISM-III/IV, PIM-3, and PELOD-2
Authors: Shen Yaping , Jiang Juan
Published: August 2021

Introduction:The risk of mortality is higher in pediatric intensive care units (PICU). To prevent mortality in critically ill infants, optimal clinical management and risk stratification are required.

Aims and Objectives:To assess the accuracy of PELOD-2, PIM-3, and PRISM-III/IV scores to predict outcomes in pediatric patients.

Results:A total of 29 studies were included for quantitative synthesis in meta-analysis. PRISM-III/IV scoring showed pooled sensitivity of 0.78; 95% CI: 0.72–0.83 and pooled specificity of 0.75; 95% CI: 0.68–0.81 with 84% discrimination performance (SROC 0.84, 95% CI: 0.80–0.87). In the case of PIM-3, pooled sensivity 0.75; 95% CI 0.71–0.79 and pooled specificity 0.76; 95% CI 0.73–0.79 were observed with good discrimination power (SROC, 0.82, 95% CI 0.78–0.85). PELOD-2 scoring system had pooled sensitivity of 0.78 (95% CI: 0.71–0.83) and combined specificity of 0.75 (95% CI: 0.68–0.81), as well as good discriminating ability (SROC 0.83, 95% CI: 0.80–0.86) for mortality prediction in PICU patients.

Conclusion:PRISM-III/IV, PIM-3, and PELOD-2 had good performance for mortality prediction in PICU but with low to moderate certainty of evidence. More well-designed studies are needed for the validation of the study results.
The Influence of Perioperative Antibiotic Prophylaxis on Wound Infection and on the Colonization of Wound Drains in Patients After Correction of Craniosynostosis
Authors: Holle Johannes , Finger Tobias , Lugonja Julia , Schmidt Florian , Schaumann Andreas , Gratopp Alexander , Thomale Ulrich-Wilhelm , von Bernuth Horst , Schulz Matthias
Published: August 2021

Objective: Evidence for the duration of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) after the correction of craniosynostosis in children is scarce. We evaluated the necessary duration of PAP to ensure a minimal rate of postoperative wound infections.

Methods: In this monocentric, retrospective, and prospective pilot study, two PAP protocols were compared. From August 2017 to May 2018, treatment group 1 (TG 1) was treated using the standard PAP protocol with at least three doses of antibiotics. Between May 2018 and March 2019, a shortened PAP with a single-shot administration was given to treatment group 2 (TG 2a and b). Endpoints of this study were wound infection rate, colonization rate of wound drains, and the course of treatment reflected by clinical and laboratory data.

Results: A cohort of 187 children underwent craniosynostosis correction: 167 were treated according to protocols-−95 patients with at least three doses (TG 1) and 72 patients with a single-shot of cefuroxime (TG 2a). Baseline characteristics were similar for both groups. We could not detect significant differences, neither for wound infection rates (TG 1: 1.1%, TG 2a: 0.0%, p = 0.38) nor for colonization rates of wound drains (TG 1: 4.8%, TG 2a: 10.5%, p = 0.27).

Conclusions: Single-shot PAP had no adverse effects on the wound infection rate or the colonization rate of the wound drains compared with prolonged perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis. As a result, single-shot preoperative PAP is now applied to the majority craniosynostosis patients undergoing surgical correction in our unit.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Vascular Bundle-Related Traits in Maize Stalk
Authors: Zheng Yunxiao , Hou Peng , Zhu Liying , Song Weibin , Liu Han , Huang Yaqun , Wang Hong , Guo Jinjie
Published: August 2021

The vascular bundle plays an important role in nutrient transportation in plants and exerts great influence on crop yield. Maize is widely used for food, feed, and fuel, producing the largest yield in the world. However, genes and molecular mechanism controlling vascular bundle-related traits in maize have largely remained undiscovered. In this study, a natural population containing 248 diverse maize inbred lines genotyped with high-throughput SNP markers was used for genome-wide association study. The results showed that broad variations existed for the vascular bundle-related traits which are subject to genetic structure and it was suitable for association analysis. In this study, we identified 15, 13, 2, 1, and 5 SNPs significantly associated with number of small vascular bundle, number of large vascular bundle, average area of single small vascular bundle, average area of single large vascular bundle, and cross-sectional area, respectively. The 210 candidate genes in the confidence interval can be classified into ten biological processes, three cellular components, and eight molecular functions. As for the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis of the candidate genes, a total of six pathways were identified. Finally, we found five genes related to vascular development, three genes related to cell wall, and two genes related to the mechanical strength of the stalk. Our results provide the further understanding of the genetic foundation of vascular bundle-related traits in maize stalk.
Haplotype Variations and Evolutionary Analysis of the Granule-Bound Starch Synthase I Gene in the Korean World Rice Collection
Authors: Maung Thant Zin , Yoo Ji-Min , Chu Sang-Ho , Kim Kyu-Won , Chung Ill-Min , Park Yong-Jin
Published: August 2021

Granule-bound starch synthase I (GBSSI) is responsible for Waxy gene encoding the, which is involved in the amylose synthesis step of starch biosynthesis. We investigated the genotypic and haplotypic variations of GBSSI (Os06g0133000) gene, including its evolutionary relatedness in the nucleotide sequence level using single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), indels, and structural variations (SVs) from 475 Korean World Rice Collection (KRICE_CORE), which comprised 54 wild rice and 421 cultivated represented by 6 ecotypes (temperate japonica, indica, tropical japonica, aus, aromatic, and admixture) or in another way by 3 varietal types (landrace, weedy, and bred). The results revealed that 27 of 59 haplotypes indicated a total of 12 functional SNPs (fSNPs), identifying 9 novel fSNPs. According to the identified novel fSNPs, we classified the entire rice collection into three groups: cultivated, wild, and mixed (cultivated and wild) rice. Five novel fSNPs were localized in wild rice: four G/A fSNPs in exons 2, 9, and 12 and one T/C fSNP in exon 13. We also identified the three previously reported fSNPs, namely, a G/A fSNP (exon 4), an A/C fSNP (exon 6), and a C/T fSNP (exon 10), which were observed only in cultivated rice, whereas an A/G fSNP (exon 4) was observed exclusively in wild rice. All-against-all comparison of four varietal types or six ecotypes of cultivated rice with wild rice showed that the GBSSI diversity was higher only in wild rice (π = 0.0056). The diversity reduction in cultivated rice can be useful to encompass the origin of this gene GBSSI during its evolution. Significant deviations of positive (wild and indica under balancing selection) and negative (temperate and tropical japonica under purifying selection) Tajima's D values from a neutral model can be informative about the selective sweeps of GBSSI genome insights. Despite the estimation of the differences in population structure and principal component analysis (PCA) between wild and subdivided cultivated subgroups, an inbreeding effect was quantified by FST statistic, signifying the genetic relatedness of GBSSI. Our findings of a novel wild fSNPS can be applicable for future breeding of waxy rice varieties. Furthermore, the signatures of selective sweep can also be of informative into further deeper insights during domestication.
QTL Map of Early- and Late-Stage Perennial Regrowth in Zea diploperennis
Authors: Swentowsky Kyle W. , Bell Harrison S. , Wills David M. , Dawe R. Kelly
Published: August 2021

Numerous climate change threats will necessitate a shift toward more sustainable agricultural practices during the 21st century. Conversion of annual crops to perennials that are capable of regrowing over multiple yearly growth cycles could help to facilitate this transition. Perennials can capture greater amounts of carbon and access more water and soil nutrients compared to annuals. In principle it should be possible to identify genes that confer perenniality from wild relatives and transfer them into existing breeding lines to create novel perennial crops. Two major loci controlling perennial regrowth in the maize relative Zea diploperennis were previously mapped to chromosome 2 (reg1) and chromosome 7 (reg2). Here we extend this work by mapping perennial regrowth in segregating populations involving Z. diploperennis and the maize inbreds P39 and Hp301 using QTL-seq and traditional QTL mapping approaches. The results confirmed the existence of a major perennial regrowth QTL on chromosome 2 (reg1). Although we did not observe the reg2 QTL in these populations, we discovered a third QTL on chromosome 8 which we named regrowth3 (reg3). The reg3 locus exerts its strongest effect late in the regrowth cycle. Neither reg1 nor reg3 overlapped with tiller number QTL scored in the same population, suggesting specific roles in the perennial phenotype. Our data, along with prior work, indicate that perennial regrowth in maize is conferred by relatively few major QTL.
Non-intimate Relationships and Psychopathic Interpersonal and Affective Deficits as Risk Factors for Criminal Career: A Comparison Between Sex Offenders and Other Offenders
Authors: Ferretti Fabio , Pozza Andrea , Carabellese Fulvio , Schimmenti Adriano , Santoro Gianluca , Mandarelli Gabriele , Gualtieri Giacomo , Carabellese Felice , Catanesi Roberto , Coluccia Anna
Published: August 2021

Sex-offenders are at risk of criminal recidivism. For the treatment to be truly effective, it must be individualized. For this purpose, an accurate assessment should focus on criminological, psychological, and psychopathological features. The present study compared sex offenders with other offenders on historical experiences (i.e., problems with violence, anti-social behaviors, problems with personal relationships, problems with substance use, traumatic experiences, and parenting style). In addition, given the association between life events and psychopathy, we explored whether the relation between life events and crime type (sexual crime vs. other types of crime) might be moderated by psychopathy traits (interpersonal and affective deficits and antisocial behavior). Eighty-eight sex offenders (76% of whom child molesters) and 102 other offenders were included. The Historical, Clinical and Risk Management - 20 item Version 3 (HCR-20V3) and Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) were administered. The scores of the HCR-20V3 Historical scale items were computed to assess life events. The scores of the PCL-R factors, F1 Interpersonal affective deficits and F2 Antisocial behavior, were recorded. The presence of a history of problems with non-intimate relationships was the only significant risk factor for sexual crime compared with other crimes. Interpersonal and affective deficits provided an increased likelihood of being sex offenders as compared with other offenders when problems with non-intimate relationships were possibly/partially or certainly present.
Exploring Resilience, Coping and Wellbeing in Women of Refugee Background Resettled in Regional Australia
Authors: Hawkes Clare , Norris Kimberley , Joyce Janine , Paton Douglas
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to address a significant gap in the literature by investigating how Women of Refugee Background (WoRB) conceptualise resilience and identify factors that WoRB endorse as contributing to their wellbeing and coping during resettlement. Qualitative interviews were conducted with a group of 21 individuals (nine WoRB and 12 service providers). Thematic analysis identified that WoRB struggled to define resilience, with endorsed factors not fitting with current hegemonic Western understandings and theoretical understandings of resilience. The findings also highlighted how religious practice, finding a community and having a sense of meaning and contribution in their daily life were significant coping and wellbeing factors during resettlement, however, were difficult to access in regional resettlement locations. Results of the current study are discussed regarding theoretical and practical implications, taking into consideration the unique vulnerabilities experienced by WoRB resettled in regional locations of Australia.
Can Exercise Reduce the Autonomic Dysfunction of Patients With Cancer and Its Survivors? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lavín-Pérez Ana Myriam , Collado-Mateo Daniel , Mayo Xián , Liguori Gary , Humphreys Liam , Jiménez Alfonso
Published: August 2021

Background: Cancer therapies have increased patient survival rates, but side effects such as cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity can lead to autonomic nervous and cardiovascular system dysfunction. This would result in a decrease in parasympathetic activity and the enhancement of sympathetic activity. Heart rate variability (HRV), which reflects autonomic modulation, is a valuable physiological tool since it correlates with cancer-related fatigue, stress, depression, and mortality in patients with cancer.

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the effects of exercise programs on the autonomic modulation, measured by the HRV of patients with cancer and its survivors.

Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and the quality of the articles was assessed with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. The meta-analysis statistic procedure was performed by using RevMan software version 5.3.

Results: From the 252 articles found, six studies were included in the review involving 272 participants aged 30–75 years. Exercise programs had a mean length of 10.4 ± 4.6 weeks, a frequency of 3 ± 1.4 days/week, and a mean duration of 78 ± 23.9 min. In time-domain HRV measures, exercise may increase in the SD of normal-to-normal intervals [p < 0.00001, with a mean difference (MD) of 12.79 ms from 9.03 to 16.55] and a decreased root mean square of successive R–R interval differences (p = 0.002, with an MD of 13.08 ms from 4.90 to 21.27) in comparison with control groups (CG). The frequency-domain data reveal that the exercise group (EG) improve significantly more than the CGs in low frequency [absolute power: p < 0.0001, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.97 from 0.61 to 1.34; relative power: p = 0.04, with an MD = −7.70 from −15.4 to −0.36], high-frequency [absolute power: p = 0.001, with a SMD of 1.49 from 0.32 to 2.66; relative power: p = 0.04, with an MD of 8.00 normalized units (n.u.) from 0.20 to 15.80], and low-to-high frequency ratio (p = 0.007 with an MD of −0.32 from −0.55 to −0.09).

Conclusion: Exercise programs could lead to positive effects on the autonomic modulation of patients with cancer and its survivors. More beneficial changes may occur with resistance and endurance workouts. However, due to the low number of interventions performed, further research is needed to substantiate the findings and to provide additional insights regarding the exercise intensity required to increase the autonomic modulation of the patient.