bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Signatures of selection in indigenous Chinese cattle genomes reveal adaptive genes and genetic variations to cold climate
Authors: Huang Ning , Zhao Lihong , Wang Jinpeng , Jiang Qiang , Ju Zhihua , Wang Xiuge , Yang Chunhong , Gao Yaping , Wei Xiaochao , Zhang Yaran , Xiao Yao , Liu Wenhao , Lu Shaoxiong , Huang Jinming
Published: January 2023

Cold climate shapes the genome of animals and drives them to carry sufficient genetic variations to adapt to changes in temperature. However, limited information is available about the genome-wide pattern of adaptations to cold environments in cattle. In the present study, we used 777K SNP genotyping (15 Chinese cattle breeds, 198 individuals) and whole genome resequencing data (54 cattle breeds of the world, 432 individuals) to disentangle divergent selection signatures, especially between the cold-adapted (annual average temperature of habitat, 6.24 °C to 10.3 °C) and heat-adapted (20.2 °C to 24.73 °C) Chinese native cattle breeds. Genomic analyses revealed a set of candidate genes (e.g., UQCR11, DNAJC18, EGR1, and STING1) were functionally associated with thermogenesis and energy metabolism. We also characterized the adaptive loci of cattle exposed to cold temperatures. Our study finds new candidate genes and provides new insights into adaptations to cold climates in cattle.
Effects of a milk oligosaccharide biosimilar on fecal characteristics, microbiota, and bile acid, calprotectin, and immunoglobulin concentrations of healthy adult dogs treated with metronidazole
Authors: Belchik Sara E , Oba Patricia M , Wyss Romain , Asare Paul T , Vidal Sara , Miao Yong , Adesokan Yemi , Suchodolski Jan S , Swanson Kelly S
Published: January 2023

In recent dog and cat experiments, a novel milk oligosaccharide biosimilar (GNU100) positively modulated fecal microbiota and metabolite profiles, suggesting benefits to gastrointestinal health. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of GNU100 on the fecal characteristics, microbiota, and bile acid (BA) concentrations of healthy adult dogs treated with antibiotics. Twelve healthy adult female dogs (mean age: 3.74 ± 2.4 yr) were used in an 8-wk crossover design study (dogs underwent both treatments). All dogs were fed a control diet during a 2-wk baseline, then randomly allotted to 1 of 2 treatments (diet only or diet + 1% GNU100) for another 6 wk. From weeks 2 to 4, dogs were orally administered metronidazole (20 mg/kg BW) twice daily. Fecal scores were recorded daily and fresh fecal samples were collected at weeks 2, 4, 5, 6, and 8 for measurement of pH, dry matter, microbiota populations, and BA, immunoglobulin A, and calprotectin concentrations. On weeks 0, 4, and 8, blood samples were collected for serum chemistry and hematology analysis. All data were analyzed as repeated measures using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS version 9.4, with significance considered P < 0.05. Metronidazole increased (P < 0.0001) fecal scores (looser stools) and modified (P < 0.05) fecal microbiota and BA profiles. Using qPCR, metronidazole reduced fecal Blautia, Fusobacterium, Turicibacter, Clostridium hiranonis, and Faecalibacterium abundances, and increased fecal Streptococcus and Escherichia coli abundances. DNA sequencing analysis demonstrated that metronidazole reduced microbial alpha diversity and influenced the relative abundance of 20 bacterial genera and families. Metronidazole also increased primary BA and reduced secondary BA concentrations. Most antibiotic-induced changes returned to baseline by week 8. Fecal scores were more stable (P = 0.01) in GNU100-fed dogs than controls after antibiotic administration. GNU100 also influenced fecal microbiota and BA profiles, reducing (P < 0.05) the influence of metronidazole on microbial alpha diversity and returning some fecal microbiota and secondary BA to baseline levels at a quicker (P < 0.05) rate than controls. In conclusion, our results suggest that GNU100 supplementation provides benefits to dogs treated with antibiotics, providing more stable fecal scores, maintaining microbial diversity, and allowing for quicker recovery of microbiota and secondary BA profiles which play an essential role in gut health.
Technical note: simultaneous determination of amino thiols in pig tissue by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
Authors: Rudar Marko , Gachman Alexandra , Boersma Melissa
Published: January 2023

Sulfur amino acid nutrition and metabolism are linked to animal disease. While validated methods for the determination of amino thiol levels in plasma or serum are available, there is a dearth of validated methods for their measurement in tissue. A robust and reproducible ultra-high performance liquid chromatography method has been validated for the simultaneous determination of concentrations of cysteine (Cys), cysteinylglycine (CysGly), homocysteine (Hcys), γ-glutamylcysteine (γ-GluCys), and glutathione (GSH) in pig tissue. Tissue was homogenized and deproteinized with trichloroacetic acid. Amino thiols in the acid-soluble fraction of the tissue homogenate were reduced with tris-(2-carboxyethyl)-phosphine hydrochloride and derivatized with 4-(aminosulfonyl)-7-fluoro-2,1,3-benzoxadiazole (ABD-F). Amino thiols were resolved under reversed-phase gradient conditions on a Waters Acquity BEH C18 column (1.7 µm, 2.1 mm × 100 mm) within 4.5 min and detected with fluorescence. The peak area ratio of analyte to 2-mercaptopropionylglycine internal standard, added to external calibration standards and samples, was used to develop linear calibration curves. Linear calibrations were performed over the range of 15–1,500 nmol/g for Cys, CysGly, Hcys, and γ-GluCys and 150–15,000 nmol/g for GSH. Linearity, lower limit of detection, lower limit of quantitation, accuracy, precision, sample stability, and carryover were evaluated. We demonstrate excellent linearity for all analytes within their respective concentration range (r2 > 0.99) and excellent recovery of amino thiols from spiked samples (mean ± SD across tissues; Cys, 100.0 ± 2.2%; CysGly, 95.4 ± 5.1%; Hcys, 96.6 ± 2.0%; γ-GluCys, 102.2 ± 2.7%; and GSH, 100.6 ± 3.3%). The intra-day and inter-day precisions did not exceed 5% and 10%, respectively. Repeated freezing and thawing of tissue homogenate did not affect measured amino thiol concentrations, ABD-labeled amino thiols were stable for 1 wk after derivatization, and there was no sample carryover across consecutive injections. We confirm the identity of each ABD-labeled amino thiol with Orbitrap mass spectrometry. Finally, we apply the method to the determination of amino thiol concentrations in liver and jejunum tissues in newly weaned pigs and show that despite elevated Cys and maintained GSH concentrations in liver, both γ-GluCys and GSH decline in jejunum of weaned pigs.
Formation of hierarchical assemblies by collagen peptides derived from fish skin and bladder and their subsequent application as antiperoxide agents in lipid-rich food
Authors: Sumeet Charitha , Bajaj Mayur , Kumar Indresh , Yelleti Geethika , Asokan Vishwadeep , Tagadghar Pawan , Banerjee Pradipta
Published: January 2023

This study attempts to identify the significant role played by the secondary and tertiary structure of collagen-derived peptides that are involved in lipid peroxide quenching in food products. Fish collagen hydrolysate (CH) was extracted with an efficiency of 70%. The constituent peptides of CH (8.2–9.7 kDa) existed in a polyproline-II (PP-II) conformation and at a minimum concentration of 1 mg ml−1 and pH range 7 to 8, assembled into a stable, hierarchical, quasi-fibrillar (QF) network. The peroxide quenching activity of this QF-CH increased with increasing ionic stability of the assembly and decreased upon proteolytic dismantling. Upon being used as an additive, the QF-CH reduced peroxide formation by 84.5% to 98.9% in both plant and fish-based oil and increased the shelf life of soya oil by a factor of 5 after 6 months of storage. The addition of QF-CH to cultured cells quenched peroxide ions generated in situ and decreased stressor activity by a factor of 12.16 abundant peptides were identified from the CH. The reason behind the high efficacy displayed by CH was attributed to its unique charge distribution, prevalence of proton-donating amino acid residues and proximal charge delocalization by the QF network, making fish derived CH a suitable substitute for antiperoxide agents in lipid-rich food.
Does A History of Malignancy Lead to Worse Outcomes in a Single-center Burn Unit?
Authors: Sljivic Sanja , Nam Jason , Matthews Robert , Agala Chris B , Hollowell Jamie , Nizamani Rabia , King Booker , Williams Felicia N
Published: January 2023

A history of malignancy is associated with worse outcomes in cardiac disease and trauma. Our objective was to determine if a past medical history or comorbid condition of cancer portends an increased morbidity or mortality in burns or skin-sloughing disorders at our institution. Patients were identified using our Institutional Burn Center registry and linked to the clinical and administrative data. All patients admitted between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2021 were eligible for inclusion. Demographics, length of stay, comorbid conditions and mortality were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed with Kruskal–Wallis, chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests. Seven thousand three hundred seventy-two patients were admitted during this time period. Three hundred eighty-six patients had a history of cancer (5%). Patients with a history of cancer were older (56 vs 44 years, P < .0001). They had a significantly longer length of stay (16 vs 10 days, P < .0001). They also had larger burns and higher hospital costs ($147,021 versus $83,788, P < .0001), were more likely to be male and more likely to have a skin-sloughing disorder. A history of cancer was not associated with increased odds of burn mortality. Thus, a history of cancer is associated with increased lengths of stay and costs in patients admitted for burn injury or skin-sloughing disorders, but not associated with increased mortality. Further study is warranted to investigate and mitigate what aspects of their care could be adjusted to improve outcomes.
Mixed and Purely Hyperechoic Breast Masses: A Radiologic-Pathologic Review
Authors: Chesebro Allyson L , Joseph Sumita , Kuba M Gabriela , Lester Susan , Giess Catherine S
Published: January 2023

Breast US is a mainstay of modern-day breast imaging, especially in the diagnostic and interventional realm. The BI-RADS atlas described six echo patterns relative to the subcutaneous mammary fat: anechoic, hypoechoic, complex cystic and solid, isoechoic, heterogeneous, and hyperechoic. Hyperechoic breast masses demonstrate increased echogenicity relative to subcutaneous mammary fat or equal to fibroglandular tissue. Pathologically, the hyperechoic pattern at breast US results from the intermingling of different components: adipose tissue, fibrous tissue or stroma, secretions, blood or vascularity, and calcifications. Most hyperechoic masses are benign, especially homogeneously hyperechoic masses. However, hyperechogenicity does not exclude malignancy. Two echo patterns have been identified in hyperechoic malignant lesions, including those with a hypoechoic center and hyperechoic rim known as the rim pattern and a mass with hyperechoic areas distributed through the mass known as a dispersed pattern. This article aims to illustrate the echogenic patterns of breast lesions and various benign and malignant hyperechoic breast lesions with radiologic-pathologic correlation and to increase awareness of heterogeneously hyperechoic breast lesions as a manifestation of malignancy.
Increasing seawater temperatures in the Levantine Basin, eastern Mediterranean, may elicit increased activity in slipper lobsters, Scyllarides latus (Latreille, 1803) (Decapoda: Achelata: Scyllaridae)
Authors: Goldstein Jason S , Spanier Ehud
Published: January 2023

Temperature is a predominant motivator for movement and activity over a wide range of mobile marine ectotherms. Water temperature modulates the movements of many lobster species, which can vary widely over spatial and temporal scales. Providing insight into the thermal preferences (and refuges) that some lobsters seek remains a key tenet to our understanding of the behavioral ecology of these animals. The Mediterranean slipper lobster, Scyllarides latus (Latreille, 1803), shows seasonal movements throughout most of its range and is subject to a changing thermal environment. Through a series of laboratory-based trials, we examined the movement activity of S. latus and tested the hypothesis that S. latus engage in increased movements when subjected to temperatures outside their preferred range. To examine this, we exposed a set of lobsters (N = 10, CLavg= 83.1 ± 6.1 cm) to the same thermal profiles as in the field and assayed their locomotion using activity wheels. Our laboratory results showed that individuals of S. latus are more active at higher temperatures during dawn hours and revealed that warming water temperatures elicited markedly longer movements over a similar timeframe. Combined, these findings suggest that increasing water temperatures in the eastern Mediterranean (Levant) may affect lobster movements and could alter seasonal patterns of distribution as well.
Application of reinforcement learning based on curriculum learning for the pipe auto-routing of ships
Authors: Kim Youngsu , Lee Kyungho , Nam Byeongwook , Han Youngsoo
Published: January 2023

The pipe routing of ships has been manually performed by experts, and the design quality depends on the competence of the experts. Therefore, studies on pipe-routing automation and optimization are required. In addition, the pipe-routing task in a ship that requires frequent pipe-routing modifications requires a long time to be optimized. In this study, we developed a methodology that enables a rapid response in situations where frequent pipe-routing modifications are required by applying curriculum learning that can be stably learned by gradually solving easy-to-complex problems. In addition, this study aimed to minimize the length of the pipe and number of bends as an objective function. Finally, the proposed methodology was verified by comparing it with existing studies that used the A*, jump point search, and reinforcement-learning algorithms to determine the search speed, number of bends, and length of the path.
Study on the relationship between machining errors and transmission accuracy of planetary roller screw mechanism using analytical calculations and machine-learning model
Authors: Wu Hanlin , Wei Peitang , Hu Rui , Liu Huaiju , Du Xuesong , Zhou Pengliang , Zhu Caichao
Published: January 2023

Correlation between machining errors and transmission accuracy of planetary roller screw mechanism (PRSM) plays an important role in tolerance design. In this study, analytical calculations, machine learning, and experimental verification are utilized for exploring the internal correlation between the machining errors and the transmission accuracy of the PRSM. A multi-roller meshing transmission error model is established, which comprehensively considers the eccentric error, nominal diameter error, flank angle error, and cumulative pitch error of the screw, roller, and nut. The importance coefficients of various machining errors on the transmission error are determined using the random forest algorithm. A genetic algorithm-back propagation neural network algorithm-based method is utilized for training the dataset generated via analytical calculations. The results show that the proposed analytical calculation model reflects the alternate meshing characteristics of rollers during the PRSM motion, providing a more accurate prediction of the transmission error than the existing prediction methods. For an actual mean travel deviation, the most significant machining error is the cumulative pitch error of the screw, whereas for the actual bandwidth of useful travel, the most significant machining errors are the eccentric errors of the screw and nut. The proposed prediction formulae for transmission error considering the essential machining errors illustrate reasonable prediction accuracy, with an average error of 10.63% for the actual mean travel deviation and 14.27% for the actual bandwidth of useful travel compared with the experiments, which can effectively support the direct design of PRSM tolerance in engineering practice.
Making Medical History Relevant to Medical Students: The First Fifty Years of the Calgary History of Medicine Program and History of Medicine Days Conferences
Authors: Stahnisch Frank W
Published: January 2023

Medical historians and educators have long lamented that the integration of the study of the history of medicine into the educational curricula of medical schools and clinic-based teaching has been protractedly troubled. Employing the development of the history of medicine program at the University of Calgary as a case study, this article emphasizes the importance of integrating medical history with teaching schedules to further students’ insights into changing health care settings, the social contingency of disease concepts, and socio-economic dependences of medical decision-making. History of medicine programs can furnish plentiful opportunities for research training through summer projects, insight courses, and field practica. This article explores the first fifty years of the History of Medicine and Health Care Program in Calgary and considers the impact of interdisciplinary cooperation as well as the role of interprofessional undergraduate and clinical medical education. Through this exploration, I argue that medical history should be a central part of study curricula, that a historical understanding can provide a robust background for physicians in a fast-changing world in the clinic, and that through their disciplinary expertise, medical historians play a fruitful role in scholarly and teaching exchanges with medical students and clinicians in the modern medical humanities.
Ambitious for change? A critical appraisal of the Canadian indicator framework of the sustainable development goals
Authors: Smith-Carrier Tracy , On Jacqueline
Published: January 2023

This article explores the indicators and targets identified in the Canadian Indicator Framework, a localization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals for the country of Canada. Applying a critical theoretical lens and a human rights approach, the authors explore each of the ‘ambitions’ proposed by the federal government and assess their suitability in meeting the magnitude of transformative change that will be necessary to meet the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In considering each of the Canadian ambitions proposed to realize Sustainable Development Goals 1 to 17, and the framework as a whole, the authors conclude that a business-as-usual stance has been applied. Many of the Canadian ambitions have ‘no specific target’ identified, offering no baseline measures or concrete standards from which to benchmark and monitor progress. The ones that do are not tremendously transformative, leading to a framework that does not present a dramatic departure from existing policy and practice arrangements. The character of the Canadian ambitions to the Sustainable Development Goals are revealed, not as concrete change strategies, but as mere aspirations, albeit more for the status quo than for transformational action. To translate the Canadian ambitions into actions, human rights must be infused into the Canadian Indicator Framework, and these must be substantive, de facto, rights—rights that people can actually claim, and hold state actors accountable to.
The Use of Trade Coercion and China’s Model of ‘Passive-Aggressive Legalism’
Authors: Czapnik Ben , Mercurio Bryan
Published: January 2023

There is a growing view among both governments and commentators, especially in the West, that China engages in acts of trade coercion which violate the law and spirit of the multilateral trading system. And while there is a developing literature discussing this issue, the debate currently lacks clarity about how China’s approach differs from other types of coercion which do not inspire the same backlash. This article advances the literature by suggesting that Chinese trade coercion is particularly threatening to the rules-based system (RBS) as it uses methods that had largely been eradicated under the GATT/WTO system. Chinese trade coercion therefore represents a “new” and important phenomenon in international trade as it uses coercion for strategic purposes, usually as retaliation for perceived affronts in matters unrelated to trade. We label this approach “passive-aggressive legalism” because, rather than relying on open dialogue to resolve diplomatic frictions, China implements informal and “plausibly deniable” retaliatory measures to indirectly make its displeasure known and felt. The article concludes by making broader claims about why China’s approach represents a threat to the WTO system and may even undermine the effectiveness of rules-based constraints in other domains of global regulation.
From Bananas to Large Civil Aircraft: An On-Going Quest for Value-Added in the Computation of Countermeasures at the WTO
Authors: Couet Marc-Antoine
Published: January 2023

This article discusses the methodology used in the quantification of the level of authorized countermeasures in trade disputes settled under the auspices of the World Trade Organization (WTO)’s dispute settlement system. It discusses the legal framework pertaining to the quantification of the level of the remedies provided for under the WTO agreements in case of failure by the respondent to timely comply with the rulings and recommendations of the Dispute Settlement Body and where no agreement on compensation is reached: suspension of concessions and countermeasures. It analyzes whether the current understanding of ‘damage’ in WTO law is consistent with the prevailing economic reality and suggests an alternate interpretation that would account for value actually added on the territory of the complainant as a basis for quantification of the level of countermeasures. Finally, the article responds to ‘pragmatic’ arguments advanced by those who conceptually oppose to a methodological reform that would authorize countermeasures based on the share of value-added attributable to the complainant rather than on the gross amount of exports of the good affected by the impugned measure.
Clonal heamatopoiesis and associated cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Tajiri Kazuko , Suehara Yasuhito , Suzuki Toshio , Sekine Ikuo
Published: January 2023

Cancer and cardiovascular disease share several risk factors. Clonal heamatopoiesis, a novel risk factor associated with both diseases, has received increasing attention in the fields of cardiology, heamatology and oncology. Clonal heamatopoiesis of indeterminate potential refers to the presence of at least one driver mutation in the heamatopoietic cells of peripheral blood without heamatological malignancy. Clonal heamatopoiesis of indeterminate potential is a common age-related condition that affects up to 60% of individuals aged > 80 years. Importantly, clonal heamatopoiesis of indeterminate potential carriers have a 2- to 4-fold higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease than non-carriers. Therefore, we performed an up-to-date review of clonal heamatopoiesis and its association with various forms of cardiovascular disease, including atherosclerotic disease, heart failure, aortic stenosis and pulmonary hypertension. In addition, we reviewed experimental studies that examined the causality and directionality between clonal heamatopoiesis and cardiovascular disease. Lastly, we discussed future research directions that will aid in the design of personalized therapies and preventive strategies for individuals with clonal heamatopoiesis. This review showed that clonal heamatopoiesis of indeterminate potential is a common condition, especially in older patients, and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and worse prognosis. However, further research is needed to determine whether anti-inflammatory therapies or therapies that can reduce or eliminate clone size are effective in preventing cardiovascular disease in patients with clonal heamatopoiesis of indeterminate potential.
Public Procurement and Supplier Job Creation: Insights from Auctions
Authors: Srhoj Stjepan , Dragojević Melko
Published: January 2023

Public procurement contracts (PPCs) of goods, services, and works are about one-tenth of the global gross domestic product. Much research has been conducted on government spending and its aggregate effects, but the evidence is scarce at the micro-level. We exploit sealed-bid PPC auctions of construction works, discontinuity in bidders’ win margin, and firms’ daily employment variation to provide a causal estimate of winning a PPC on firms’ employment. Winning a PPC has a small positive impact on a firm’s short-run employment. We investigate mechanisms and heterogeneity that can explain the small initial magnitudes. We find no compelling evidence in favor of political connections, an information leakage channel, or PPC size as explanations for the small magnitude. Our investigation of a longer period shows that the impact phases out in less than a year. The lack of a long-term impact is due to runners-up winning more PPCs and runners-up substituting for more market revenue in the year after closely losing a PPC. Finally, the impacts are concentrated in construction firms that conduct most contracted work in-house. The final estimation shows the effect is 3.7 new employees per PPC with a public cost per job created at €58,600 (€49,800–€65,100).
Dialects in North American elk bugle calls: comparisons between source and translocated elk populations
Authors: Nelson-Reinier Tracee , Clarke Jennifer A
Published: January 2023

Identifying the factors shaping dialects can reveal selective pressures and cultural influences on acoustic signals. Translocations of species have been considered the “gold standard” for identifying population differences in vocalizations, including dialects. The North American elk (Cervus canadensis) is a species that has experienced numerous translocations, but no published studies exist on dialects in elk or any other ungulate species. Adult male North American elk utter an iconic vocalization during the breeding season, which is termed the bugle call due to the power, duration, and pitch of the sound. We investigated if dialect differences existed between three populations: a source population in Wyoming (N = 10 bulls, 132 calls) and translocated populations in Colorado (N = 13 bulls, 92 calls) and Pennsylvania (N = 20 bulls, 160 calls). Dialect differences existed between the populations in 9 of 10 measured variables, in both the frequency domain and time domain. Habitat factors (acoustic adaptation hypothesis) affecting sound transmission were inconsistently related to dialects in the populations. Genetic factors may be related to dialects, as the historically bottlenecked Pennsylvania population, with low heterozygosity and low allelic richness, exhibited the least variability in acoustic measures. Cultural transmission and vocal learning may also contribute to dialect development in this highly vocal, social ungulate species.
Different protective capability of chlorogenic acid and quercetin against indomethacin-induced gastrointestinal ulceration
Authors: Boonyong Cherdsak , Angkhasirisap Wannee , Kengkoom Kanchana , Jianmongkol Suree
Published: January 2023

Objectives

The study compared the protective effects against indomethacin-induced GI ulceration of chlorogenic acid with quercetin in rats.

Methods

Rats were orally given chlorogenic acid or quercetin (100 mg/kg; 5 days), followed by indomethacin (40 mg/kg; single dose). After 24 h, GI tissues were assessed for histopathological damages, then analysed by ELISA and western blot methods. Cell viability was measured in vitro by MTT assay.

Key findings

Unlike quercetin, chlorogenic acid could not prevent gastric ulcers in indomethacin-treated rats. The levels of gastric prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in the chlorogenic acid-treated group were not different from those receiving indomethacin alone. Nevertheless, both compounds alleviated jejunum ulcers through suppression of PERK/eIF-2/ATF-4/CHOP-related endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and decrease Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Moreover, at 100 µM, they abolished the cytotoxicity of tunicamycin (an ER stress inducer) in gastric (AGS) and intestinal (Caco-2) cells. In silico docking studies suggested that both compounds could interact with key amino acid residues in the ­catalytic domain of PERK.

Conclusion

Chlorogenic acid and quercetin exerted comparable protective effects against indomethacin-induced intestinal ulcer through suppression of ER stress-mediated apoptosis but, unlike quercetin, chlorogenic acid offered no protection against gastric ulceration due to its ­inability to increase PGE2 production.
3D-printed long-acting 5-fluorouracil implant to prevent conjunctival fibrosis in glaucoma
Authors: Ioannou Nicole , Luo Jinyuan , Qin Mengqi , Di Luca Matteo , Mathew Essyrose , Tagalakis Aristides D , Lamprou Dimitrios A , Yu-Wai-Man Cynthia
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To develop a sustained release 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) implant by three-dimensional (3D) printing to effectively prevent conjunctival fibrosis after glaucoma surgery.

Methods

3D-printed implants composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) and chitosan (CS) were fabricated by heat extrusion technology and loaded with 1% 5-FU. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the surface morphology. The 5-FU concentration released over 8 weeks was measured by ultraviolet visible spectroscopy. The effects on cell viability, fibroblast contractility and the expression of key fibrotic genes were assessed in human conjunctival fibroblasts.

Key findings

The PCL–CS-5-FU implant sustainably released 5-FU over 8 weeks and the peak concentration was over 6.1 μg/ml during weeks 1 and 2. The implant had a smooth surface and its total weight decreased by 3.5% after 8 weeks. The PCL–CS–5-FU implant did not affect cell viability in conjunctival fibroblasts and sustainably suppressed fibroblast contractility and key fibrotic genes for 8 weeks.

Conclusions

The PCL–CS–5-FU implant was biocompatible and degradable with a significant effect in suppressing fibroblast contractility. The PCL–CS–5-FU implant could be used as a sustained release drug implant, replacing the need for repeated 5-FU injections in clinic, to prevent conjunctival fibrosis after glaucoma surgery.
Overview and analysis of internal radiation dose estimates in experimental animals in a framework of international studies of the sprayed neutron-induced 56Mn radioactive microparticles effects
Authors: Stepanenko Valeriy , Kaprin Andrey , Ivanov Sergey , Shegay Peter , Bogacheva Viktoria , Hoshi Masaharu
Published: January 2023

The aim of overview is to present the pooled data of published internal dose estimates and the results of corresponding analysis of internal irradiation features of experimental mice and rats after exposure to sprayed neutron activated radioactive 56MnO2. These dose estimates were conducted in a framework of multicenter international study to investigate biological effects as a result of exposure to sprayed radioactive 56MnO2 microparticles. Radionuclide 56Mn (T1/2 = 2.58 h) is one of the main gamma-beta emitters during the first hours after neutron activation of soil following nuclear explosion. It was concluded that there are three groups of organs of mice and rats, the radiation doses of which differ by approximately an order of magnitude: the group with the highest radiation doses (large and small intestine, stomach, skin and lungs), the group with lowered radiation doses (eyes, esophagus, trachea), the group with the lowest radiation doses (liver, heart, kidneys). The radiation doses to organs are proportional to the activity of the sprayed radioactive powder. The distribution of internal radiation doses among organs of experimental mice of different strains but of the same age was practically the same in case of exposure to the same activity of sprayed 56MnO2 powder. Doses of internal irradiation of experimental mice substantially exceed the doses of internal irradiation of experimental rats exposed to the same activities of the sprayed 56MnO2 powder. The data presented in the overview can be helpful for further investigation and for interpretation of the biological effects of this type of irradiation.
Pathological observation of the effects of exposure to radioactive microparticles on experimental animals
Authors: Shichijo Kazuko , Takatsuji Toshihiro
Published: January 2023

Internal radiation exposure from neutron-induced radioisotopes that were environmentally activated following an atomic bombing or nuclear accident should be considered for a complete picture of the pathologic effects on survivors. Inhaled hot particles expose neighboring tissues to very high doses of particle beams, which can cause local tissue damage. Experimentally, a few μm of 55MnO2 powder was irradiated with neutrons at a nuclear reactor in order to generate 56MnO2 that emits β-rays. Rats were irradiated via inhalation. Pathological changes in various rat tissues were examined. In addition, the 56Mn β energy spectrum around the particles was calculated to determine the local dose rate and the cumulative dose. This review focuses on our latest pathological findings in lungs with internal radiation injury and discusses the pathological changes of early event damage caused by localized, very high-dose internal radiation exposure, including apoptosis, elastin stigma, emphysema, hemorrhage and severe inflammation. The pathological findings of lung tissue due to internal radiation exposure of 0.1 Gy were severe, with no pathological changes observed due to external exposure to γ radiation at a dose of 2.0 Gy. Therefore, it is suggested that new pathological analysis methods for internal exposure due to radioactive microparticles are required.
No evidence of thyroid consequences in seven nuclear workers at the Tokyo Electric Power Company Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident: 10-year follow-up results of thyroid status
Authors: Tatsuzaki Hideo , Kishimoto Riwa , Kurihara Osamu , Tominaga Takako , Yamashita Shunichi
Published: January 2023

Seven emergency nuclear workers, who had internal exposure due to an intake of radionuclides, mainly I-131, during the emergency response operation in March 2011, after the accident at the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP), visited the National Institute of Radiological Sciences (NIRS) outpatient clinic for medical evaluation. They were followed up after their first visit for 10 years. The estimated committed equivalent doses to the thyroid were distributed between 3.2 to 1.2 × 10 Sv. This group thought to be received highest exposure at the accident. None of the workers had symptoms related to abnormal thyroid function. The examinations, including thyroid function tests and ultrasound, detected no abnormalities related to radiation exposure. However, there is a need for continuous monitoring of their thyroid status for longer periods in the future.
Post-treatment haemolysis is common following oral artemisinin combination therapy of uncomplicated malaria in travellers
Authors: Kurth Florian , Tober-Lau Pinkus , Lingscheid Tilman , Bardtke Lara , Kim Johanna , Angheben Andrea , Gobbi Federico G , Mbavu Lena , Stegemann Miriam S , Heim Katrin M , Pfäfflin Frieder , Menner Nikolai , Schürmann Mariana , Mikolajewska Agata , Witzenrath Martin , Sander Leif E , Mayer Beate , Zoller Thomas
Published: January 2023

Background

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) for the treatment of malaria is highly effective, well tolerated and safe. Episodes of delayed haemolysis occur in up to 57.9% of patients with severe malaria treated with intravenous artesunate, mainly caused by ‘pitting’ of infected red blood cells in the spleen and the delayed loss of these once-infected RBCs (oiRBCs). Several reports indicate that post-treatment haemolysis (PTH) also occurs in uncomplicated malaria treated with oral ACT, calling for systematic investigation.

Methods

A prospective observational study to identify the incidence of PTH after oral ACT, defined as increased lactate dehydrogenase activity and low haptoglobin level on Day 14 after treatment. Patients were enrolled at two study centres in Germany and Italy. Study visits took place on Days 1, 3, 7, 14 and 28. Laboratory investigations included extended clinical routine laboratory tests, quantitative PfHRP2, anti-RBC antibodies and oiRBCs. The state of semi-immunity to malaria was assessed from childhood and ongoing exposure to Plasmodium spp. as per patient history.

Results

A total of 134 patients with uncomplicated malaria and 3-day ACT treatment were recruited. Thirty-seven (37.4%) of 99 evaluable patients with Pf and none of 9 patients with non-Pf malaria exhibited PTH on d14. Patients with PTH had higher initial parasitaemia, higher oiRBC counts on d3 and a 10-fold decrease in oiRBCs between d7 and d14 compared with patients without PTH. In patients with PTH, loss of haemoglobin was 4-fold greater in non-Africans than in Africans (−1.3 vs −0.3 g/dl). Semi-immune African patients with PTH showed markedly increased erythropoiesis on d14 compared with not semi-immune African and non-African patients with PTH.

Conclusions

PTH is common in patients with uncomplicated malaria and oral ACT. While the observed loss of haemoglobin will often not be clinically relevant, it could aggravate pre-existing anaemia, warranting follow-up examinations in populations at risk.
Hydrogen market development: lessons from the LNG sector
Authors: Atkin James , Hernandez Drake , Cheung Nicole
Published: January 2023

The evolution of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, and LNG sale and purchase arrangements, can provide insights to how sale contracts required to underpin the development of regional hydrogen markets around the world may develop. This article explores how LNG markets have developed and considers the lessons which may be learned for project sponsors looking to develop the first wave of low-carbon hydrogen production projects.
Inter-tissue communication of mitochondrial stress and metabolic health
Authors: Zhang Hanlin , Li Xinyu , Fan Wudi , Pandovski Sentibel , Tian Ye , Dillin Andrew
Published: January 2023

Mitochondria function as a hub of the cellular metabolic network. Mitochondrial stress is closely associated with aging and a variety of diseases, including neurodegeneration and cancer. Cells autonomously elicit specific stress responses to cope with mitochondrial stress to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis. Interestingly, mitochondrial stress responses may also be induced in a non-autonomous manner in cells or tissues that are not directly experiencing such stress. Such non-autonomous mitochondrial stress responses are mediated by secreted molecules called mitokines. Due to their significant translational potential in improving human metabolic health, there has been a surge in mitokine-focused research. In this review, we summarize the findings regarding inter-tissue communication of mitochondrial stress in animal models. In addition, we discuss the possibility of mitokine-mediated intercellular mitochondrial communication originating from bacterial quorum sensing.
A Combination System of a Thin Atomic Force Microscope and an Upright Raman Microscope for Position-Controllable Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Lu Nianhang , Wang Yilin , Xiao Shasha , Zhang Rui , Xue Tao , Hu Xiaodong , Wu Sen
Published: January 2023

In this study, we propose a novel atomic force microscope (AFM) combined with a Raman microscope for fabricating position-controllable surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrates. The head of the AFM is designed with an effective thickness of 7.3 mm and reserved an open space above the cantilever probe for the objective with high NA. Benefitti from the thin head, the homemade AFM can be easily integrated with the upright Raman microscope. The Raman microscope and AFM share the same XY piezo scanner and allow to a complimentary mapping of Raman mapping images. The new combination system is equipped with automated nano-manipulation functions which help to precisely assemble one-dimensional (1D) materials such as noble metal nanowires into the desired patterns. The experimental results demonstrate that our developed AFM-Raman system can be applied to fabricating and investigating position-controllable SERS substrates. The optical geometry of this new system also shows potential in other combinational applications.
Improvement of Quantitative STEM/EDXS Analyses for Chemical Analysis of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Solar Cells with Zn(O,S) Buffer Layers
Authors: Jin Xiaowei , Schneider Reinhard , Müller Erich , Falke Meiken , Terborg Ralf , Hariskos Dimitrios , Bauer Andreas , Witte Wolfram , Powalla Michael , Gerthsen Dagmar
Published: January 2023

Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) in a transmission electron microscope is frequently used for the chemical analysis of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells with high spatial resolution. However, the quantification of EDXS data is complicated due to quantification errors and artifacts. This work shows how quantitative EDXS analyses of CIGS-based solar cells with Zn(O,S) buffer and ZnO-based window layers can be significantly improved. For this purpose, CIGS-based solar cells and a reference sample with a stack of Zn(O,S) layers with different [O]/[S] ratios were analyzed. For Zn(O,S), the correction of sample-thickness-dependent absorption of low-energy O–Kα X-rays significantly improves the results of quantitative EDXS. Absorption of characteristic X-rays in CIGS is less relevant. However, for small transmission electron microscopy (TEM) sample thicknesses, artifacts can occur due to material changes by focused-ion-beam (FIB)-based preparation of TEM samples, electron-beam-induced damage, and oxidation of the sample surface. We also show that a Pt-protection layer, deposited on the sample surface before FIB preparation of TEM lamellae, can induce artifacts that can be avoided by first depositing a carbon layer.
The Presence of Hip Joint Effusion on MRI Is Predictive of a Grade 4 Femoral Neck Stress Injury
Authors: Barkley Colleen , Wong William K , Knapik Joseph J , Westrick Richard B
Published: January 2023

Introduction

One of the most debilitating types of bone stress injuries is those occurring at the femoral neck. This problem occurs in the military population with much higher incidence than in the normal population and is of great concern to military medical providers. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are key in protecting soldiers and recruits from sustaining a potentially career-ending fracture. In a case study, a 16-year-old elite male distance runner presented with hip pain. MRI found hip joint effusion but was unremarkable for marrow edema and a low-signal fracture line. The initial diagnosis was acute arthritis; however, a follow-up radiograph 1 month later, after the patient had been refraining from running, confirmed a significant non-displaced compression-side Grade 4 femoral neck stress injury (FNSI). In light of the case study and our similar clinical experience, we tested the hypothesis that an MRI study positive for an FNSI, combined with the evidence of a hip joint effusion, is indicative of a Grade 4 FNSI, even without visualization of a low-signal intensity fracture line on T1 or short tau inversion recovery images.

Materials and Methods

Recruits in Army Basic Combat Training were included in the investigation if 1) diagnosed with a unilateral FNSI, 2) had an initial positive MRI for an FNSI, 3) had a positive bone scan for uptake in the femoral neck area (to validate the diagnosis), 4) had no other hip/pelvis injuries, and 5) had a follow-up MRI within 60 days. Hip joint effusion was defined as 1) ≥2-mm measurable difference in the thickness of fluid along the length of the involved femoral neck when compared to the contralateral uninvolved femoral neck on the initial MRI; 2) visibly assessed as a prominent collection of fluid distending the posterior hip joint capsule on the initial MRI coronal short tau inversion recovery sequence (called the “flash sign”).

Results

A total of 162 recruits met the study inclusion criteria. For the detection of a Grade 4 FNSI on the first MRI, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of the measured joint effusion criteria were 0.52, 0.94, and 0.89, respectively. or the non-measured flash sign, these values were 0.70, 0.83, and 0.80, respectively.

Conclusions

Both the measured hip joint effusion criteria and the non-measured flash sign were predictive of a Grade 4 FNSI and may be useful in clinical evaluation.
Case Report: Isosulfan Blue–Related Anaphylaxis
Authors: Adams Jacob , Goc Jonathan , Zeien Justin , Patel Alpesh , Gambardella Josephine
Published: January 2023

Anaphylaxis is an acute multisystem syndrome typically resulting from the sudden release of mast cell and basophil-derived mediators into the circulatory system. Isosulfan blue dye is a rare, but known, mediator of anaphylaxis with an incidence between 0.16% and 2% of cases. We report two cases of anaphylaxis attributed to the use of isosulfan blue dye in the intraoperative setting. Both of the patients we report had grade 3 anaphylactic reactions requiring vasopressors to correct significant hypotension. Both patients required overnight monitoring in the intensive care unit with the second patient also requiring continued vasopressor support.