bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection an Effective Drug Regimen on the Tumor Microenvironment of Non-invasive to Invasive Human Retinoblastoma
Authors: TarvijEslami Saeedeh , Nasirian Hosain , Nasirian Alimohamad , Abouali Behdokht , Ivrigh Sina Rahmani , Arabi Maryam , Bereimipour Ahmad
Published: June 2023

Malignant retinoblastoma has a dismal prognosis for children under the age of 5, and we still don't understand what drives the growth of these tumors. The microenvironment of retinoblastoma cells can have a great impact on the metastasis of retinoblastoma. In this study, which was based on bioinformatics analysis, we evaluated the gene expression profile in non-invasive and invasive retinoblastoma using databases and Python programming. We investigated the signaling pathways, gene ontology, protein network and candidates for important drugs in the microenvironment of retinoblastoma. The results showed that hypoxia, TGFB, MAPK and metabolic pathways have an effect in this event. VTN, TF, TNF, VEGFA, UBC, SP1 and TGFB1 were observed as a hub proteins in tumor microenvironment. Then, indomethacin and daurobicin seleceted as a high significant drugs, relationship with invasive retinoblastoma microenvironment proteins. Finally, the evaluation of the microenvironment of retinoblastoma still needs further investigations, because this cancer, due to its difficult access to the tumor, can cause secondary tumors for children. Therefore, the use of strong and different drug regimens can have a better effect on the tumor microenvironment and reduce drug resistance.
De novo biosynthesis of the hops bioactive flavonoid xanthohumol in yeast
Authors: Yang Shan , Chen Ruibing , Cao Xuan , Wang Guodong , zhou Yongjin
Published: June 2023

The flavonoid xanthohumol is an important flavor substance in the brewing industry that has a wide variety of bioactivities. However, its unstable structure is easily oxidized during the brewing process, resulting in its low content in beer. Moreover, its extraction and purification from plants requires laborious and expensive procedures. Microbial biosynthesis is considered a sustainable and economically viable alternative to supply natural products. However, the complex structures of natural products and regulation of the biosynthetic pathways make it challenging to construct and optimize the xanthohumol pathway in microbes. Here, we harnessed the brewing yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the de novo biosynthesis of xanthohumol from glucose by modular fine-tuning of the competitive metabolic pathways, prenyltransferase engineering, enhancing precursor supply, substrate channeling, and peroxisomal engineering. These strategies significantly improved the production of the key xanthohumol precursor demethylxanthohumol (DMX) by 83-fold and achieved the de novo biosynthesis of xanthohumol for the first time in a microbial cell factory. We also revealed that prenylation is the key limiting step in DMX biosynthesis and that enhancing the supply of dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP) and substrate channeling helps to drive the metabolic flux toward DMX biosynthesis, which should be helpful for improving the production of prenylated natural products. Our work provides feasible approaches for systematically engineering yeast cell factories for the de novo biosynthesis of complex natural products.
Mitochondrial CISD1/Cisd accumulation blocks mitophagy and genetic or pharmacological inhibition rescues neurodegenerative phenotypes in Pink1/parkin models
Authors: Martinez Aitor , Sanchez-Martinez Alvaro , Pickering Jake T. , Twyning Madeleine J. , Terriente-Felix Ana , Chen Po-Lin , Chen Chun-Hong , Whitworth Alex J.
Published: June 2023

Background Mitochondrial dysfunction and toxic protein aggregates have been shown to be key features in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). Functional analysis of genes linked to PD have revealed that the E3 ligase Parkin and the mitochondrial kinase PINK1 are important factors for mitochondrial quality control. PINK1 phosphorylates and activates Parkin, which in turn ubiquitinates mitochondrial proteins priming them and the mitochondrion itself for degradation. However, it is unclear whether dysregulated mitochondrial degradation or the toxic build-up of certain Parkin ubiquitin substrates is the driving pathophysiological mechanism leading to PD. The iron-sulphur cluster containing proteins CISD1 and CISD2 have been identified as major targets of Parkin in various proteomic studies.Methods We employed in vivo Drosophila and human cell culture models to study the role of CISD proteins in cell and tissue viability as well as aged-related neurodegeneration, specifically analysing aspects of mitophagy and autophagy using orthogonal assays.Results We discovered that the Drosophila homolog Cisd accumulates during aging, as well as in Pink1 and parkin mutant flies. We observed that build-up of Cisd is particularly toxic in neurons, resulting in mitochondrial defects and Ser65-phospho-Ubiquitin accumulation. Age-related increase of Cisd blocks mitophagy and impairs autophagy flux. Importantly, reduction of Cisd levels upregulates mitophagy in vitro and in vivo, and ameliorates pathological phenotypes in locomotion, lifespan and neurodegeneration in Pink1/parkin mutant flies. In addition, we show that pharmacological inhibition of CISD1/2 by rosiglitazone and NL-1 induces mitophagy in human cells and rescues the defective phenotypes of Pink1/parkin mutants.Conclusion Altogether, our studies indicate that Cisd accumulation during aging and in Pink1/parkin mutants is a key driver of pathology by blocking mitophagy, and genetically and pharmacologically inhibiting CISD proteins may offer a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
Individualized dose of anti-thymocyte globulin based on weight and pre-transplantation lymphocyte counts in pediatric patients: A single center experience
Authors: Wietstruck Angelica , Schulze Clara , Catalan Paula , Sotomayor Cristian , Zuñiga PAmela , Aguirre Noemi , Vizcaya Cecilia , Barriga Francisco
Published: June 2023

Anti-Thymocyte Globulin (ATG) has become standard in preventing GvHD in related and unrelated donor transplantation. There needs to be a consensus on the best administration schedule. The PARACHUTE trial reported excellent CD4 immune reconstitution (CD4 IR) using a dosing schedule based on the patient's weight and pre-conditioning absolute lymphocyte count (ALC). In 2015 we introduced the PARACHUTE dosing schedule at our center. Patients received ATG doses according to weight and ALC starting day -9. One hundred one patients were transplanted for malignant and non-malignant diseases. CD4 IR+ was seen in 81% of patients. The incidence of grade II-IV and III to IV aGvHD was 26.6% and 15.3% and 5% for cGvHD with no severe cases. We found no difference in aGvHD between donor type and stem cell sources. Five-year EFS and OS were 77.5% and 83.5%. Grade III-IV GFRS was 75.2%. CD4 IR + patients had better EFS (93.1% vs. 77.7%, p=0.04) and lower non-relapse mortality (2.7% vs. 22.2%, p=0.002). The PARACHUTE ATG dosing schedule individualized by weight and ALC results in good early immune reconstitution, low incidence of cGvHD, and favorable survival for patients with different disease groups, donor types, and stem cell sources.
Costs of transitioning to net-zero emissions under future climates
Authors: Bilotto Franco , Christie-Whitehead Karen , Malcolm Bill , Barnes Nicoli , Cullen Brendan , Ayre Margaret , Harrison Matthew
Published: June 2023

Land managers are challenged with balancing priorities for agri-food production, greenhouse gas (GHG) abatement, natural conservation, social and economic license to operate. We co-designed pathways for transitioning farming systems to net-zero emissions under future climates. Few interventions enhanced productivity and profitability while also reducing GHG emissions. Seaweed (Asparagopsis) feed supplement and planting trees enabled the greatest mitigation (67–95%), while enterprise diversification (installation of wind turbines) and improved feed-conversion efficiency (FCE) were most conducive to improved profitability (17–39%). Mitigation efficacy was hampered by adoptability. Serendiptiously, the least socially acceptable option – business as usual and purchasing carbon credits to offset emissions – were also the most costly options. In contrast, stacking synergistic interventions enabling enteric methane mitigation, improved FCE and carbon removals entirely negated net emissions in a profitable way. We conclude that costs of transitioning to net-zero vary widely (-64% to + 30%), depending on whether interventions are stacked and/or elicit productivity co-benefits.
Neutrophils of MDSCs in ovarian cancer are negatively related to Immunotherapy and prognosis: a multi-omics-based consensus clustering
Authors: Li Liling , Yang Haolin , Bi Sheng , Zhang Weina , Huang Jinchang
Published: June 2023

Background:: A plateau has been reached for conventional therapies in ovarian cancer as there is no definitive increase in overall survival. It is necessary to distinguish molecular subtypes based on multi-omics integration to take more targeted strategies to improve prognosis and increase therapeutic efficacy.
Methods:: A total of 202 patients with mRNA, miRNA, DNA methylation, somatic mutation, and Reverse Phase Protein Array (RPPA) data were assembled into one multi-omics dataset and then developed a model via MOVICS. A total of 1028 OV samples with raw microarray data and clinicopathological information were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) as a validation cohort. Then, a series of immune infiltration analyses were performed by GSVA, TIDE, EaSIeR, and ESTIMATE package. Lastly, Metascape was conducted to unravel activated signaling pathways, and the ChAMP package was used to identify potential biomarkers.
Results:: 202 OV samples retrieved from the multi-omics TCGA cohort were categorized into two subgroups by MOVICS. Drug sensitivity analysis revealed that targeted therapy and immunotherapy are possibly considered as preferable approaches to prolong the survival of such patients as C2 while platinum-based drugs to C1. Furthermore, immune infiltration analysis revealed that there is a negative correlation between myeloid and neutrophil cells (MDSC) and prognosis and response to immunotherapy in C1. Immune-associated pathways were mainly enriched in C1 and metabolic-related pathways in C2. CRISPLD2, SLC12A8, STARD8, and DCHS1 were considered as potential targets to possibly improve the outcome by disrupting the immunosuppressive immunocytes by integration of DNA methylation and transcriptome expression.
Conclusion:: The molecular subtypes based on integrated multi-omics provided novel insights into the molecular basis of immune recognition and immune regulation of cancer cells for predicting the prognosis of ovarian cancer and potential clinical therapeutic targets for OV.
Effects of Exercise Type on Core Symptoms of ADHD in Children：A Systematic Review
Authors: li liang , song Yi-ling , Zhang lingling , Wu xueping
Published: June 2023

Background
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder disease in children
Methods
Randomized controlled trials or crossover studies were identified in four databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and China Knowledge Network) from January 2000 to January 2022. A total of 27 interventional studies met the inclusion criteria.
Results
Interventions of various types of aerobic exercise performed at moderate intensity (45%-75% peak heart rate) for 20 minutes or more 2–3 times per week best improved executive function and attention deficits in children with ADHD.
conclusions
Integrating different types of aerobic exercise programs, comparing acute vs long-term effects of the same intervention and assessing gender differences may provide more evidence-based and precise intervention programs for children with ADHD and help exercise interventions to become more effective alternative or complementary non-pharmacological treatments for ADHD in children.
Detection of disease-associated microglia among various microglia phenotypes induced by West Nile virus infection in mice
Authors: Thammahakin Passawat , Maezono Keisuke , Maekawa Naoya , Kariwa Hiroaki , Kobayashi Shintaro
Published: June 2023

West Nile virus (WNV) has emerged as a significant cause of viral encephalitis in humans and horses. However, the pathogenesis of the West Nile encephalitis remains unclear. Microglia are activated by WNV infection, and the pathogenic involvement of their phenotypes is controversial. In this study, we examined the diversity of microglia phenotypes caused by WNV infection by assessing various microglia markers and identified disease-associated microglia in WNV-infected mouse brain tissue. Cells positive for general microglia markers such as Iba1, P2RY12, or TMEM119 were detected in the control and WNV-infected brain tissue. The morphology of the positive cells in brain tissue infected by WNV was different from that of control brain tissue, indicating that WNV infection induced activation of microglia. The activated microglia were classified into various phenotypes by investigation of specific marker expression. Among the activated microglia, disease-associated microglia that were positive for CD11c and weakly positive for TMEM119 were detected close to the WNV-infected cells. These results indicate that WNV infection induces activation of diverse microglia phenotypes and that disease-associated microglia may be associated with the pathogenicity of WNV infection in the mouse brain.
Flexible anchored mats of artificial seagrass for restoration: wave dynamics and agreement with contemporary models
Authors: Villanueva Raúl , Paul Maike , Schlurmann Torsten
Published: June 2023

Seagrass restoration requires a sound understanding of the hydrodynamics around established meadows. Present know-how primarily stems from idealized artificial seagrass (ASG) attached to a fixed bed. With the goal of accessible field deployment for restoration, anchored prototype scale ASG mats (coconut mesh) were tested under differing wave conditions to analyze hydrodynamic interaction and assess the suitability of contemporary predictive models. Velocity structure and wave propagation were measured around one and two ASG mats (separated by a 2-m gap). The mats reduced orbital velocities by up to 16% (2 mats), whereby the average reduction was low (< 10%) compared to the non-vegetated conditions. Velocities increased above the ASG, with the gap enhancing velocity (up to 11%) instead of attenuating it. Wave decay followed an exponential decrease, further enhanced by the second mat. Current models did not capture the induced hydrodynamics for the full range of wave conditions tested, with the second mat increasing uncertainties. Wave decay models generally overestimated wave attenuation (up to 30%), except for longer wave periods. Nevertheless, for the full range of conditions, the models provide accurate insight into the expected magnitude of attenuation under field conditions. It is speculated that mat flexibility affects the surrounding hydrodynamics through inherent motion, with the gap contributing to the uncertainties.
Oral cavity manifestations in COVID-19 patients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Fernandes Tatiana , Ogrzewalska Maria , Martins Ezequias , Siqueira Marilda , Brasil Patrícia , Calvet Guilherme
Published: June 2023

Objective
To determine the prevalence of oral manifestations in symptomatic patients in the ambulatory setting with suspected COVID-19.
Methods
This cross-sectional study evaluated oral manifestations in adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with suspected and confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare data between the groups (RT-PCR-positive and RT-PCR-negative patients).
Results
One hundred and thirty-sixparticipants were included. Mostwere female (n = 79; 58.1%), mean age of 39.53 (± 14.17) years. Of these, 54 (39.7%) had a positive RT-PCR test, and 82 (60.3%) had negative RT-PCR results. Oral manifestations were observed in 40 participants (74.1%)in the RT-PCR-positive group and in 67 participants (81.7%) in the RT-PCR-negative group. The most common oral manifestations were xerostomia (n = 85; 62.5%) and dysgeusia/ageusia (n = 57; 41.9%). Different rates of gingivitis (n = 12; 22.2% vs n = 5; 6.1%) and halitosis (n = 7; 13.0% vs n = 1; 1.2%) were observed between the RT-PCR-positive and negative groups, respectively. Mouth ulcers, glossitis, tongue coating, and petechiae were reported in both groups, without significant differences.
Conclusions
A high prevalence of oral manifestations was observed in symptomatic patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
Clinical Relevance
This study highlights the importance of routine oral examinations by dentists as part of the multidisciplinary care of COVID-19 patients.
Development and validation of a new model for the early diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis in adults based on simple clinical and laboratory parameters
Authors: Liu Qiang , Cao Meiling , Shao Na , Qin Yixin , Liu Lu , Zhang Qing , Yang Xiao
Published: June 2023

Background The differential diagnosis between tuberculous meningitis (TBM) and viral meningitis (VM) or bacterial meningitis (BM) remains challenging in clinical practice, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to establish a diagnostic model that can accurately and early distinguish TBM from both VM and BM in adults based on simple clinical and laboratory parameters.
Methods Patients diagnosed with TBM or non-TBM (VM or BM) between January 2016 and October 2021 were retrospectively enrolled from the General Hospital (derivation cohort) and Branch Hospital (validation cohort) of Ningxia Medical University. Demographic characteristics, clinical symptoms, concomitant diseases, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters were collated. Univariable logistic analysis was performed in the derivation cohort to identify significant variables (P<0.05). A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed using these variables. We verified the performance including discrimination, calibration, and applicability of the model in both derivation and validation cohorts.
Results A total of 222 patients (70 TBM and 152 non-TBM [75 BM and 77 VM]) and 100 patients (32 TBM and 68 non-TBM [31 BM and 37 VM]) were enrolled as derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. The multivariable logistic regression model showed that disturbance of consciousness for >5 days, weight loss >5% of the original weight within 6 months, CSF lymphocyte ratio >50%, CSF glucose concentration <2.2 mmol/L, and secondary cerebral infarction were independently correlated with the diagnosis of TBM (P<0.05). The nomogram model showed excellent discrimination (area under the curve 0.959 vs. 0.962) and great calibration (P-value in the Hosmer–Lemeshow test 0.128 vs. 0.863) in both derivation and validation cohorts. Clinical decision curve analysis showed that the model had good applicability in clinical practice and may benefit the entire population.
Conclusions This multivariable diagnostic model may help clinicians in the early discrimination of TBM from VM and BM in adults based on simple clinical and laboratory parameters.
Assessment of Respiratory and Reproductive Impacts of Artisanal Refinery Activity on Male Albino Wistar Rats: Implications for Environmental Health
Authors: Suku Piety Godwill , Ugwoha Ejikeme , Orikpete Ochuko Felix , Ewim Daniel Raphael Ejike
Published: June 2023

Background Artisanal refinery operations can produce a significant volume of air pollutants, among which are carbon soot particulate matter. Although these operations are widespread, especially in developing countries, the impact of exposure to carbon soot particulate matter on both respiratory and reproductive health remains poorly understood. Objective In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of controlled exposure to carbon soot particulate matter on the respiratory and reproductive systems of male albino Wistar rats. To simulate the exposure conditions found in artisanal refineries, we developed an experimental setup where rats were exposed to different concentrations of carbon soot particulate matter for 28 days. Results Respiratory health was evaluated by examining the cytoarchitecture of the lungs and quantifying inflammatory markers, including Tumour-Necrosis-Factor alpha (TNF-α), as well as oxidative stress parameters such as Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in the lungs. Haematological parameters were also assessed. The reproductive impact was investigated through a thorough analysis of the cytoarchitecture of the testis. Conclusions Our study provides valuable insights into the health risks associated with exposure to carbon soot particulate matter, thus underscoring the urgent need for stricter regulatory measures to control air pollution in areas surrounding artisanal refineries.
Climbing Strategies of Taiwan Climbers
Authors: Chen Po-Hao , Chung An-Ching , Lin Hung-Chih , Yang Sheng-Zehn
Published: June 2023

Background: The climbing strategies of lianas and herbaceous vines influence climber competition abilities and survival. The aim of this study was to investigate the climbing strategies of each plant species and observe their organs of origin.
Results: The results showed that approximately twenty-one climbing methods, including nine combination types, were exhibited, of which the most common type wasthe twining stem, followed by simple scrambling and twining tendrils. Most species of Fabaceae and Apocynaceae were twining stems in dextrorse, excluding Wisteriopsis reticulata and Alyxia taiwanensis, which were in sinistrorse. Gentianales includes four families with seven climbing mechanisms, while Fabales includes only Fabaceae, which presented six climbing methods. Only Embelia laeta var. papilligeraexhibited a combination of the three climbing methods. The prehensile branch of Fissistigma genus, Ventilago genus, Dalbergia benthamii, and Lycopodiastrum casuarinoides originated from second-order or modified stems. In the simple scrambling type, most climbers primarily covered spines and prickles to attach to the host, and some species were, without speculation, clinging to the supports or creeping on the ground. The genus Uncaria was attached to its hosts by hooks or grapnels, which are derived from the branches.
Conclusions: The species Artabotrys hexapetalus forms a pair of curved hooks that originate from the inflorescence; it also becomes a spine to tightly attach to a host. The Calamus genus has sheathe-covered spines, flagella armed with anchor-shaped hooks, branches, and rachyllae covered with clawed spines. Some Piper species use adhesive roots to climb their hosts. Among the genus Trichosanthesin Taiwan, only Trichosanthes homophylla exhibits a combination of modified stems and adhesive roots. The data presented herein provide crucial basic information on climbing methods and origin structures for ensuring the conservation of their diversity.
Prognosis of low-risk prostate cancer patients is favorable despite the presence of pathological prognostic factors: a retrospective study
Authors: Semba Remi , Uchida Katsunori , Hirokawa Yoshihumi , Shiraishi Taizo , Onishi Takehisa , Sasaki Takeshi , Inoue Takahiro , Watanabe Masatoshi
Published: June 2023

Background
Prostate cancer patients with pathological prognostic factors have a poor prognosis, but it is unclear whether pathological prognostic factors are associated with prognosis limited to low-risk patients with good prognosis according to NCCN guidelines. The present study examined whether prognosis is influenced by pathological prognostic factors using radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens from low-risk patients.
Methods
We evaluated diagnostic accuracy by examining biochemical recurrence (BCR)-free survival with respect to clinical and pathological prognostic factors in 419 all-risk patients who underwent RP. Clinical prognostic factors included age, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, PSA density, and risk stratification, while pathological prognostic factors included grade group, lymphovascular space invasion, extraprostatic extension, surgical margins, seminal vesicle invasion, intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDCP), and pT. In a subsequent analysis restricted to 104 low-risk patients, survival curves were estimated for pathological prognostic factors using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using log-rank and generalized Wilcoxon tests.
Results
In the overall risk analysis, the presence of pathological prognostic factors significantly shortened BCR-free survival (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed that PSA density, risk categories, and pathological prognostic factors were significantly associated with BCR-free survival, although age and PSA were not. In multivariate analysis, age, risk categories, grade group, IDCP, and pT significantly predicted BCR-free survival (p < 0.05). Conversely, no statistically significant differences were found for any pathological prognostic factors in low-risk patients.
Conclusions
In low-risk patients, pathological prognostic factors did not affect BCR-free survival, which suggests that additional treatment may be unnecessary even if pathological prognostic factors are observed in low-risk patients with RP.
Successful complete oral rehabilitation of a patient with osteopetrosis with extensive pre-treatments, bone grafts, dental implants and fixed bridges: a multidisciplinary case report
Authors: Kelk Peyman , Fasth Anders , Holgerson Pernilla Lif , Sjöström Mats
Published: June 2023

Background:
Osteopetrosis is a rare hereditary bone disease resulting in bone that is denser, heavier, and more fragile. Bone remodeling is extremely inhibited because osteoclasts are nonfunctional or lacking. This condition causes overgrowth of bone with disappearance of the bone marrow, leading to aplastic anemia; obstruction of nerve passages in the skull leads to blindness and often hearing impairment. In most cases, osteopetrosis results in oral complications such as tooth deformation, hypomineralization, and delayed or absent tooth eruption. The only curative treatment is hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The main treatment of the oral complications during childhood and adolescence consists in protecting the erupted teeth against caries disease through prophylactic treatment aimed at optimal oral hygiene through frequent regular dental visits throughout life. Many patients with osteopetrosis require major oral rehabilitation to treat complications of the disease. Improved results of HSCT increase the likelihood that dental professionals will encounter patients with osteopetrosis.
Case presentation:
In this case report, we show that individuals with osteopetrosis who have severe oral complications can be treated successfully if they are treated for osteopetrosis at an early age. The boy had his dental care in pedodontics, and regular multidisciplinary meetings were held for future treatment planning. At the age of 15, he was then referred for rehabilitation. The initial evaluations revealed no further growth in the alveolar bone. The rehabilitation was done stepwise, with extraction of malformed and malpositioned teeth. Initially, the patient received a removable partial denture followed by reconstruction of the width of the alveolar process, titanium implants, temporary fixed bridges, and finally screw-retained titanium–ceramic bridges with titanium frames for the upper and lower jaws.
Conclusions:
The one-year follow-up after loading indicated a stable marginal bone level and optimal oral hygiene as a result of frequent professional oral hygiene care. The patient showed no signs of symptoms from the temporomandibular joint and has adapted to the new jaw relation without any functional or phonetical issues.
Pearl shape classification using deep convolutional neural networks from Tahitian pearl rotation in Pinctada Margaritifera
Authors: Droit Arnaud , Edeline Paul-Emmanuel , Leclercq Mickaël , Luyer Jérémy Le , Chabrier Sébastien
Published: June 2023

Tahitian pearls, artificially cultivated from the black-lipped pearl oyster Pinctada margaritifera, are renowned for their unique color and large size, making the pearl industry vital for the French Polynesian economy. Understanding the mechanisms of pearl formation is essential for enabling quality and sustainable production. In this paper, we explore the process of pearl formation by studying pearl rotation. Here we show, using a deep convolutional neural network, a direct link between the rotation of the pearl during its formation in the oyster and its final shape. We propose a new method for non-invasive pearl monitoring and a model for predicting the final shape of the pearl from rotation data with 81.9% accuracy. These novel resources provide a fresh perspective to study and enhance our comprehension of the overall mechanism of pearl formation, with potential long-term applications for improving pearl production and quality control in the industry.
Astrocytic cannabinoid receptor 1 promotes resilience by dampening stress-induced blood-brain barrier alterations
Authors: Dudek Katarzyna , Paton Sam , Collignon Adeline , Lebel Manon , Lavoie Olivier , Bouchard Jonathan , Kaufmann Fernanda Neutzling , Dion-Albert Laurence , Clavet-Fournier Valerie , Binder Luisa Bandeira , Manca Claudia , Flamand Nicolas , Guzman Manuel , Campbell Matthew , Turecki Gustavo , Mechawar Naguib , Lavoie-Cardinal Flavie , Silvestri Cristoforo , Marzo Vincenzo Di , Menard Caroline
Published: June 2023

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) alterations contribute to stress vulnerability and development of depressive behaviors. In contrast, neurovascular adaptations underlying stress resilience remain unexplored. Here, we report that high expression of astrocytic cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell, particularly in the endfeet ensheathing blood vessels, is associated with resilience despite chronic social stress exposure. Viral-mediated overexpression of Cnr1 in astrocytes of the NAc shell has baseline anxiolytic effects and dampened stress-induced anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. It also reduced astrocyte inflammatory response and morphological changes following an immune challenge with the cytokine interleukin-6, linked to stress susceptibility and mood disorders. At the preventive and therapeutic level, physical exercise and antidepressant treatment increased perivascular astrocytic Cnr1 in mice. Loss of CNR1 was confirmed in the NAc astrocytes of depressed individuals. These findings suggest a role for the astrocytic endocannabinoid system in stress responses and possibly, human depression, via BBB modulation.
Plant functional traits shape cultural and provisioning services to Indigenous communities in western Amazonia
Authors: Steege Hans ter , Cayuela Luis , Matas-Granados Laura , Saadi Celina Ben , Salinas Norma , Torre-Cuadros María de los Ángeles La , Báez Selene , Bañares-de-Dios Guillermo , Cayola Leslie , Fadrique Belén , Farfan-Rios William , Fuentes Alfredo , Homeier Jürgen , Tello J. Sebastián , Macía Manuel J. , de Aledo Julia
Published: June 2023

Functional traits have gained scientific support as a tool for understanding forests ecosystems and the goods and services they provide to human populations. Investigating how humans use and interact with plants based on their functional traits is crucial to support the long-term provision of plant-based ecosystem services. Here, we have adopted a large-scale approach encompassing nine different Indigenous communities across a latitudinal gradient of 1800 km in western Amazonia. We study the associations between nine different plant functional traits belonging to 1856 species and multiple cultural and provisioning services to support Indigenous communities in tropical ecosystems. We found that provisioning services, such as medicine, construction, and food, depend on multiple traits, and their selection is heterogeneous among communities. Cultural services, however, such as rituals, cosmetics, or recreational, hold more specific and tight relations with fewer traits. Their selection tends to be similar among communities, suggesting a possible functional selection convergence. Preserving traditional ecological knowledge is crucial for preserving biocultural well-being. Plant selection is not random, and functional traits can help us understand the current and past patterns of selection that have influenced the functional composition of Amazonian forests.
Plant functional traits shape cultural and provisioning services to Indigenous communities in western Amazonia
Authors: de Aledo Julia , Steege Hans ter , Cayuela Luis , Matas-Granados Laura , Saadi Celina Ben , Salinas Norma , Torre-Cuadros María de los Ángeles La , Báez Selene , Bañares-de-Dios Guillermo , Cayola Leslie , Fadrique Belén , Farfan-Rios William , Fuentes Alfredo , Homeier Jürgen , Tello J. Sebastián , Macía Manuel J.
Published: June 2023

Functional traits have gained scientific support as a tool for understanding forests ecosystems and the goods and services they provide to human populations. Investigating how humans use and interact with plants based on their functional traits is crucial to support the long-term provision of plant-based ecosystem services. Here, we have adopted a large-scale approach encompassing nine different Indigenous communities across a latitudinal gradient of 1800 km in western Amazonia. We study the associations between nine different plant functional traits belonging to 1856 species and multiple cultural and provisioning services to support Indigenous communities in tropical ecosystems. We found that provisioning services, such as medicine, construction, and food, depend on multiple traits, and their selection is heterogeneous among communities. Cultural services, however, such as rituals, cosmetics, or recreational, hold more specific and tight relations with fewer traits. Their selection tends to be similar among communities, suggesting a possible functional selection convergence. Preserving traditional ecological knowledge is crucial for preserving biocultural well-being. Plant selection is not random, and functional traits can help us understand the current and past patterns of selection that have influenced the functional composition of Amazonian forests.
Frogs in conserved and altered soundscapes an urban matrix in Central Brazil
Authors: Sena Vitor M.A. , Araújo Júlia R. , Machado Ricardo B.
Published: June 2023

Various factors, including the level of conservation of natural areas, their degree of isolation, the intensity of noise pollution, and the presence of domestic animals, among others, influence the presence of native species in remaining patches of natural vegetation within urban areas. In this study, we evaluated the diversity of amphibians in natural areas within the urban matrix of Brasília, the capital city of Brazil. We examined the variation in species richness and its association with acoustic indices calculated for 20 sampling areas. We used commonly used acoustic indices to characterize the acoustic landscapes we studied. Our results indicated that conserved areas had higher amphibian species richness than altered areas, and the same pattern held for acoustic indices. We found a significant correlation only between species richness and the Normalized Difference Sound Index - NDSI. We also found that ADI and H had the highest values in the middle of the night, while BI and ACI had the highest values at the beginning of the night. Our findings highlight the importance of remaining natural areas for maintaining native species in urban areas, despite a significant reduction in biodiversity in areas with higher levels of noise pollution, as measured by NDSI. Urban management actions require not only the preservation of intact native vegetation but also control of the noise pollution affecting these areas, aimed at creating sustainable cities.
Stress Transfer Outpaces Injection-Induced Aseismic Slip and Triggers Seismicity
Authors: Yang Yuyun , Yang Hongfeng , Zi Jinping
Published: June 2023

As concerns rise over damaging earthquakes related to industrial activities such as hydraulic fracturing, geothermal energy extraction and wastewater disposal, it is essential to understand how subsurface fluid injection triggers seismicity even in distant regions where pore pressure diffusion cannot reach. Previous studies suggested long-range poroelastic stressing and aseismic slip as potential triggering mechanisms. In this study, we show that significant stress transfer originating from injection-induced aseismic slip can travel at much higher speeds and is a viable mechanism for distant earthquake triggering. It could also explain microseismicity migration that is much faster than aseismic slip front propagation. We demonstrate the application of these concepts with seismicity triggered by hydraulic fracturing operations in Weiyuan Shale Gas Field, China. The speed of stress transfer is dependent on the background stress level and injection rate, and can be almost an order of magnitude higher than that of the aseismic slip front.
Quality of life after different axillary treatments in women with breast cancer: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Peeters Noelle J.M.C. Vrancken , Kaplan Rana Z.L. , Clarijs Marloes E. , Mureau Marc A. M. , Verhoef Cornelis , Dalen Thijs van , Husson Olga , Koppert Linetta B.
Published: June 2023

Purpose
As life expectancy continues to rise, post-treatment quality of life (QoL) of breast cancer patients becomes increasingly important. This study examined the longitudinal relation between axillary treatments and QoL using the BREAST-Q and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QoL Questionnaire Breast Cancer Module (EORTC QLQ-BR23).
Methods
Women diagnosed with breast cancer who received different axillary treatments being axilla preserving surgery (APS) with or without axillary radiotherapy or full axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) with or without axillary radiotherapy were included. QoL was assessed at baseline, 6- and 12-months postoperatively. Mixed regression models were constructed to assess the impact of axillary treatment on QoL. QoL at baseline was compared to QoL at 6- and at 12-months postoperatively.
Results
Except for ALND with axillary radiotherapy, no significant differences in physical and psychosocial wellbeing were found. Physical wellbeing decreased significantly between baseline and 6- and 12-months postoperatively (p < 0.001, p = 0.035) and psychosocial wellbeing decreased significantly between baseline and 12 months postoperatively (p = 0.028) for ALDN with axillary radiotherapy compared to APS alone. Arm symptoms increased significantly between baseline and 6 months and between baseline and 12 months postoperatively for APS with radiotherapy (12.71, 13.73) and for ALND with radiotherapy (13.93, 16.14), with the lowest increase in arm symptoms for ALND without radiotherapy (6.85, 7.66), compared to APS alone (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Physical and psychosocial wellbeing decreased significantly for ALND with radiotherapy compared to APS alone. Shared decision making and expectation management pre-treatment could be strengthened by discussing arm symptoms per axillary treatment with the patient.
Evaluation of the ozonated sunflower oil application on reducing sensitivity after at-home bleaching
Authors: Roque João Vitor Oribka , Mendonça Márcio José , Vanolli Rafael da Silva , Campos Francisco Ubiratan Ferreira , Ueda Julio Kathuide , Colognese Maria Ritha Veiga , Silva Marina Pereira , Camilotti Veridiana
Published: June 2023

Objectives
Due to controversial results in relation to the influence of desensitizing agents on sensitivity during bleaching, the present study evaluated the degree of tooth bleaching sensitivity, color change, and patient acceptability of desensitizing agents containing potassium nitrate/sodium fluoride (PNF) or ozonized sunflower oil associated with in-office bleaching with 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP).
Materials and Methods
A clinical trial was conducted with a split-mouth design. The sample consisted of 30 volunteers randomized into 2 experimental groups according to the desensitization protocol. Potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride was applied to the hemiarch corresponding to the control group for 10 minutes, while in the hemiarch of the test group, ozonized sunflower oil was applied for 2 minutes with a rubber cup in low rotation, followed by a potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride application for 10 minutes. In sequence, both arcades were bleached with 35% hydrogen peroxide for 50 minutes.
Results
Previous application of ozonated sunflower oil resulted in a significant reduction in sensitivity in the first 24 hours after removal of the bleaching gel, as well as the test group showed lower tooth sensitivity in times measured up to 1 hours after removal of the bleaching gel.
Conclusions
Both experimental groups presented satisfactorily lighter shades, but no statistically significant differences were observed regardless of the desensitization protocol employed.
Clinical relevance
The combined use of ozonated sunflower oil followed by a potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride-based desensitizing agent results in reduced sensitivity compared to the desensitizing agent alone.
Unlabeled Data Selection for Active Learning in Image Classification
Authors: Li Xiongquan , Lu Yao , Fu Hongpeng , Wu Ying Cheng
Published: June 2023

Active Learning has emerged as a viable solution for addressing the challenge of labeling extensive amounts of data in data-intensive applications such as computer vision and neural machine translation. The main objective of Active Learning is to automatically identify a subset of unlabeled data samples for annotation. This identification process is based on an acquisition function that assesses the value of each sample for model training. In the context of computer vision, image classification is a crucial task that typically requires a substantial training dataset. This research paper intro-duces innovative selection methods within the Active Learning framework, aiming to identify informative images from unlabeled datasets while minimizing the number of required training data. The proposed methods, namely Similarity-based Selection, Prediction Probability-based Selection, and Competence-based Active Learning, have been extensively evaluated through experiments conducted on popular datasets like Cifar10 and Cifar100. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed methods outperform random selection and conventional selection techniques. The superior performance of the novel selection methods underscores their effectiveness in enhancing the Active Learning process for image classification tasks.
Multianalytical approach to the exceptional Late Roman shipwreck of Ses Fontanelles (Mallorca, Balearic Islands)
Authors: Cau-Ontiveros M. Á. , Bernal-Casasola D. , Pecci A. , Fantuzzi L. , Picornell-Gelabert Ll. , Valenzuela A. , Retamosa J. A. , Portillo J. L. , Cardell J. , Llabrés S. Munar , Fuertes C. Juan , Riaza E. García
Published: June 2023

The paper presents the results of an interim analytical approach to the Late Roman shipwreck of Ses Fontanelles recently found in the island of Mallorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). The excellent state of preservation of the hull and the cargo, including amphorae with painted inscriptions (tituli picti), and its location in shallow waters offshore of one of the main touristic beaches of the island makes this a unique finding in the Mediterranean. A first season of excavations and study of the cargo triggered an analytical approach to solve some of the problems pose by archaeological research, mainly related to the possible origin of the vessel. The analytical strategy combines petrographic analysis for the study of the provenance of the amphorae, archaeozoology and residue analysis to identify their content, and analysis of the wood and plant remains to understand the use of vegetal resources in shipbuilding and in the stow of the cargo. The results of the combination of the petrographic analysis, the study of the ichthyofauna and the organic residue analysis suggest that the boat probably departed from the area of Cartagena in the southeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula, carrying a cargo of fish sauce (liquaminis flos), oil, and probably olives preserved in wine derivatives, transported in three main types of amphorae. The analysis of the wood shows, as known in Roman shipbuilding, a clear selection of forest resources. The shipbuilders used pine for longitudinal parts of the hull, while for the small pieces related to the assemblage system (pegged, mortise and tenons) and subjected to a great stress they selected harder woods mainly Cupressaceae, Olea europaea, and Laurus nobilis. In addition, the study reveals that mainly branches of Vitis vinifera, but also other herbaceous plants were used as dunnage protecting the cargo during the journey. The results help to shed some light into different aspects of this unique vessel sunk in Mallorcan waters and contributes to show the benefit of applying archaeological sciences in maritime archaeology.
Comparison of Diet with and Without Strengthening Exercises Impacting Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain Patients in Obesity
Authors: Sarfraz Muhammad , Shadmehr Azadeh , Ahmed Javeria , Bhutto Mazhar Ali , Jalaie Shohreh
Published: June 2023

Aims:
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two commonly practiced techniques of weight reduction and their impact on Non-specific low back pain in obese clients.
Methods:
52 patients with sedentary lifestyle, age between 25–40 years were assigned in two groups according to their BMI (Grade I & II obesity) and were assessed for their weight, Body Mass index (BMI), Waist to hip ratio (WHR), Body Fat Percentage (BF %), Fat mass (FM), lean Mass (LM), Numeric Pain rating scale (NPRS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and pushups for muscular endurance and strength. One of the group followed diet only (D) while the other followed diet plus strength (DS) training. After 6 weeks’ intervention, clients were assessed again on same parameters. SPSS 21 version was used to analyze the results.
Result:
DS group revealed positive changes in all parameters i.e, weight (0.00), BMI (0.00), WHR (0.01), BF% (0.00), FM (0.00), LM (0.01), NPRS (0.00), OLBPD (0.00), pushups (0.00), while D group showed insignicant results in WHR (p value- 0.736, before 0.88 ± 0.1 after 0.88 ± 0.1), LM (p-value- 0.384, before 40.9 ± 8.9 after 40.3 ± 8.8) and Pushups (p value 0.384, before 4.6 ± 3.4 after 4.3 ± 3.7).
Conclusion:
6 weeks of diet and diet plus strength training resulted in bringing about the positive changes in pain and Oswestry disability index but in all parameters diet plus strength exercise group overweighed the diet only group.