bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL4/IL4R signaling promotes the osteolysis in metastatic bone of CRC through regulating the proliferation of osteoclast precursors
Authors: Jin Qian , Yang He , Jing Zhao , Hong-hua Wu , Ben-jing Song , Li-ting Wang , Li-juan Ye , Wei Xu , Xia Kang , Juan Wu , Wei Zheng
Published: December 2021

Background

Bone metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) often indicates a poor prognosis. Osteolysis can be observed in metastatic sites, implying an aberrant activation of osteoclasts. However, how osteoclastogenesis is regulated in metastatic microenvironment caused by colorectal cancer is still unclear.

Methods

In this study, mice bone metastatic model of CRC was established through injection of MC-38 or CT-26 cells. BrdU assays showed primary CD115 ( +) osteoclast precursors (OCPs) proliferated at the first 2 weeks. Transcriptomic profiling was performed to identify differentially expressing genes and pathways in OCPs indirectly co-cultured with CRC cells

Results

The expression of IL4Rα was found to be significantly upregulated in OCPs stimulated by tumor conditioned medium (CM). Further investigation indicated that IL-4 signaling regulated proliferation of OPCs through interacting with type I IL4 receptor, and neutrophils were the main source of IL-4 in bone marrow. The proliferation of OCPs can be inhibited in IL4 deficiency mice. In addition, ERK pathway was activated by IL4/IL4R signaling. Ravoxertinib, an ERK antagonists, could significantly prevent bone destruction through inhibiting the proliferation of OCPs.

Conclusion

Our study indicates the essential role of IL4/IL4R signaling for the proliferation of OCPs in early metastasis of CRC predominantly through activating ERK pathway, which remarkedly impacts the number of osteoclasts in later stage and leads to osteolytic lesions. Moreover, Ravoxertinib could be a new therapeutical target for bone metastasis of CRC.
Effect of Machined Surface Integrity on Fatigue Performance of Metal Workpiece: A Review
Authors: Liu Guoliang , Huang Chuanzhen , Zhao Bin , Wang Wei , Sun Shufeng
Published: December 2021

Fatigue performance is a serious concern for mechanical components subject to cyclical stresses, particularly where safety is paramount. The fatigue performance of components relies closely on their surface integrity because the fatigue cracks generally initiate from free surfaces. This paper reviewed the published data, which addressed the effects of machined surface integrity on the fatigue performance of metal workpieces. Limitations in existing studies and the future directions in anti-fatigue manufacturing field were proposed. The remarkable surface topography (e.g., low roughness and few local defects and inclusions) and large compressive residual stress are beneficial to fatigue performance. However, the indicators that describe the effects of surface topography and residual stress accurately need further study and exploration. The effect of residual stress relaxation under cycle loadings needs to be precisely modeled precisely. The effect of work hardening on fatigue performance had two aspects. Work hardening could increase the material yield strength, thereby delaying crack nucleation. However, increased brittleness could accelerate crack propagation. Thus, finding the effective control mechanism and method of work hardening is urgently needed to enhance the fatigue performance of machined components. The machining-induced metallurgical structure changes, such as white layer, grain refinement, dislocation, and martensitic transformation affect the fatigue performance of a workpiece significantly. However, the unified and exact conclusion needs to be investigated deeply. Finally, different surface integrity factors had complicated reciprocal effects on fatigue performance. As such, studying the comprehensive influence of surface integrity further and establishing the reliable prediction model of workpiece fatigue performance are meaningful for improving reliability of components and reducing test cost.
Effects of Vibration Characteristics on the Atomization Performance in the Medical Piezoelectric Atomization Device Induced by Intra-Hole Fluctuation
Authors: Yan Qiufeng , Sun Wanting , Zhang Lei , Wang Hongmei , Zhang Jianhui
Published: December 2021

Oral inhalation of aerosolized drugs has be widely applied in healing the affected body organs including lesions of the throat and lungs and it is more efficient than those conventional therapies, such as intravenous drip, intramuscular injection and external topical administration in the aspects of the dosage reduction and side effects of drugs. Nevertheless, the traditional atomization devices always exhibit many drawbacks. For example, non-uniformed atomization particle distribution, the instability of transient atomization quantity and difficulties in precise energy control would seriously restrict an extensive use of atomization inhalation therapy. In this study, the principle of intra-hole fluctuation phenomenon occurred in the hole is fully explained, and the produced volume change is also estimated. Additionally, the mathematical expression of the atomization rate of the atomizing device is well established. The mechanism of the micro-pump is further clarified, and the influence of the vibration characteristics of the atomizing film on the atomization behavior is analyzed theoretically. The curves of sweep frequency against the velocity and amplitude of the piezoelectric vibrator are obtained by the Doppler laser vibrometer, and the corresponding mode shapes of the resonance point are achieved. The influence of vibration characteristics on atomization rate, atomization height and atomization particle size are also verified by experiments, respectively. Both the experimental results and theoretical calculation are expected to provide a guidance for the design of this kind of atomization device in the future.
Experimental Investigation of the Small-scale Fixed Multi-chamber OWC Device
Authors: Shalby Mohammad , Elhanafi Ahmed , Walker Paul , Dorrell David G. , Salah Ahmad , Gomaa Mohamed R.
Published: December 2021

Sea wave energy generators or converters (WECs) have the potential to become a viable technology for clean, renewable energy production. Among the WEC technologies, the oscillating water columns (OWCs) are the most common WEC devices studied. These have been studied and developed over many years. Multi-chamber oscillating water columns (MC-OWC) have the potential to have a higher energy conversion when extracting energy in mixed sea states than single-chamber devices. In the work reported in this paper, physical experiments are carried under regular wave conditions to test the wave power extraction of a fixed MC-OWC small-scale model. The Power Take-Off (PTO) of the device is simulated using orifice plates. The flow characteristics through these orifices are pre-calibrated such that the extracted power can be obtained only using the pressure measurement. Wave condition effects on the damping of the PTO of the device power extraction are addressed. The test results illustrate that the PTO system damping is critical and affects device performance.
Tribological Properties of Cylinder Block/Valve Plate Interface of Axial Piston Pump on the Tribometer
Authors: Huang Jiahai , Dou Zhenhua , Wang Zhenglei , Quan Long , Niu Linkai
Published: December 2021

The tribological properties of cylinder block/valve plate is an important consideration in the design of axial piston pump. The effect of materials and heat treatment on friction and wear properties has been studied in depth. Engineering experiences show that the speed and load also affect the tribological properties, but these have not been systematically analyzed. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the tribological properties of the commonly used materials (CuPb15Sn5 and 38CrMoAl/42CrMo) for cylinder block/valve plate with different heat treatment and contact pressure at different speed. During the test, tribometer is used to simulate the contact pattern between the valve plate/cylinder block in axial piston pump, the friction coefficient, wear rate and surface topography are analyzed to evaluate the tribological properties of different types of friction samples at different speed. Results indicate that: (1) contact surface of the samples at 1800 r/min is more prone to adhesive wear than those at 500 r/min; (2) in the terms of wear resistance, quench-tempered and nitrided 38CrMoAl (38CrMoAl QTN for short) is better than quench-tempered and nitrided 42CrMo, although they are all commonly used materials in the axial piston pump; (3) 2.5 MPa is the critical contact pressure of the interface between valve plate made of 38CrMoAl QTN and cylinder block made of CuPb15Sn5 on the tribometer, which implies the pressure bearing area at the bottom of the cylinder block should be carefully designed; (4) the valve plate/cylinder block made of 38CrMoAl QTN/CuPb15Sn5 exhibits good tribological properties in a real axial piston pump. This research is useful for the failure analysis and structural optimization design of the valve plates/cylinder block.
Optimum Seeking of Redundant Actuators for M-RCM 3-UPU Parallel Mechanism
Authors: Zhao Chen , Song Jingke , Chen Xuechan , Chen Ziming , Ding Huafeng
Published: December 2021

The singularity problem brings troubles to the design and application for the parallel mechanism. Currently, redundant actuation is one of the useful methods to solve this singularity problem. However, faced to the numerous joints in a parallel mechanism, how to make a quantitative criterion of seeking the most efficient joints added actuators for letting the mechanism passes through singularity is a necessarily open issue. This paper focuses on a 2R1T 3-UPU (U for universal joint and P for prismatic joint) parallel mechanism (PM) with two rotational and one translational (2R1T) degrees of freedom (DOFs) and the ability of multiple remote centers of motion (M-RCM). The singularity analysis based on the indexes of motion/force transmissibility and constraint shows that this PM has transmission singularity, constraint singularity, mixed singularity and limb singularity. To solve these singular problems, the quantifiable redundancy transmission index (RTI) and the redundancy constraint index (RCI) are proposed for optimum seeking of redundant actuators for this PM. Then the appropriate redundant actuators are selected and the working scheme for redundant actuators near the corresponding singular configuration are given to help the PM passes through the singularity. This research proposes a quantitative criterion to optimum seeking of redundant actuators for the parallel mechanism to solve its singularity.
Simulation and Experimental Study on a New Successive Forming Process for Large Modulus Gears
Authors: Lin Yao , Wu Tao , Wang Guangchun
Published: December 2021

A successive tooth forming process for producing large modulus spur gears (m>2.5 mm) is firstly proposed in this paper to break the restrictions of large forming load and large equipment structure of traditional plastic forming. It contains the preforming stage and the finishing stage. In the first stage, the die with a single-tooth preforms gear teeth one by one through several passes. In the second stage, the other die with multi-teeth refines the preformed teeth into required shape. The influence of total pressing depth and feed distribution in preforming stage on final forming quality is analyzed by numerical simulation, and the reasonable process parameters are presented. Successive tooth forming experiments are carried out on the self-designed gear forming device to verify the optimal simulation results. Gears without fold defects are well formed both in simulations and experiments, proving the feasibility of this method. Compared with the whole die forging process, the new technology has advantages of smaller load and simpler tooling, which shows a good potential for manufacturing large modulus and large size spur gears.
Numerical Study on Effect of Non-uniform CMAS Penetration on TGO Growth and Interface Stress Behavior of APS TBCs
Authors: Cai Zhenwei , Zhang Zifan , Liu Yingzheng , Zhao Xiaofeng , Wang Weizhe
Published: December 2021

The penetration of CaO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2 (CMAS) is one of the most significant factors that induce the failure of air-plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coatings (APS TBCs). The direct penetration of CMAS changes the thermal/mechanical properties of the top coat (TC) layer, which affects the thermal mismatch stress behavior and the growth of thermally grown oxide (TGO) at the TC/bond coat (BC) interface, thereby resulting in a more complicated interface stress state. In the present study, a two-dimensional global model of APS TBCs with half of the TC layer penetrated by CMAS is established to investigate the effect of non-uniform CMAS penetration on the interface stress behavior. Subsequently, a local model extracted from the global model is established to investigate the effects of interface morphologies and CMAS penetration depth. The results show that non-uniform CMAS penetration causes non-uniform TGO growth in APS TBCs, which consequently causes the stress behavior to vary along the interface. Furthermore, the CMAS penetration depth imposes a significant effect on the TC/TGO interface stress behavior, whereas the interface roughness exerts a prominent effect on the stress level at the BC/TGO interface under CMAS penetration. This study reveals the mechanism associated with the effect of non-uniform CMAS penetration on the interface stress behavior in APS TBCSs.
Major sex differences in migraine prevalence among occupational categories: a cross-sectional study using UK Biobank
Authors: Affatato Oreste , Miguet Maud , Schiöth Helgi B. , Mwinyi Jessica
Published: December 2021

Background

Migraine represents one of the most prevalent neurological conditions worldwide. It is a disabling condition with high impact on the working situation of migraineurs. Interestingly, gender-related differences regarding an association of migraine with important occupational characteristics has been hardly studied.

Methods

The current study scrutinizes gender-specific differences in the prevalence of migraine across a broad spectrum of occupational categories, shedding also light on associations with important job-related features such as shift work, job satisfaction, and physical activity. The study included data from 415 712 participants from the UK Biobank cohort, using the official ICD10 diagnosis of migraine and other health conditions as selection criteria. Prevalence ratios of migraineurs compared to healthy controls among different occupational categories and job-related variables were estimated using log-binomial regression analyses. Statistical models were adjusted for important sociodemographic features such as age, BMI, ethnicity, education and neuroticism. To better highlight specific differences between men and women we stratified by sex.

Results

We detected a differential prevalence pattern of migraine in relation to different job categories between men and women. Especially in men, migraine appears to be more prevalent in highly physically demanding occupations (PR 1.38, 95% CI [0.93, 2.04]). Furthermore, migraine is also more prevalent in jobs that frequently involve shift or night shift work compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, this prevalence is especially high in women (shift work PR 1.45, 95% CI [1.14, 1.83], night shift work PR 1.46, 95% CI [0.93, 2.31]).

Conclusion

Our results show that migraine is genderdependently associated with physically demanding jobs and shift working.
Src family kinases activity is required for transmitting purinergic P2X7 receptor signaling in cortical spreading depression and neuroinflammation
Authors: Nie Lingdi , Ma Dongqing , Quinn John P. , Wang Minyan
Published: December 2021

Background

Purinergic P2X7 receptor plays an important role in migraine pathophysiology. Yet precise molecular mechanism underlying P2X7R signaling in migraine remains unclear. This study explores the hypothesis that P2X7 receptor transmits signaling to Src family kinases (SFKs) during cortical spreading depression (CSD) and neuroinflammation after CSD.

Methods

CSD was recorded using electrophysiology in rats and intrinsic optical imaging in mouse brain slices. Cortical IL-1β and TNFα mRNA levels were detected using qPCR. Glutamate release from mouse brain slices was detected using glutamate assay.

Results

The data showed that deactivation of SFKs by systemic injection of PP2 reduced cortical susceptibility to CSD in rats and CSD-induced IL-1β and TNF-α gene expression in rat ipsilateral cortices. Consistently, in mouse brain slices, inhibition of SFKs activity by saracatinib and P2X7 receptor by A740003 similarly reduced cortical susceptibility to CSD. When the interaction of P2X7 receptor and SFKs was disrupted by TAT-P2X7, a marked reduction of cortical susceptibility to CSD, IL-1β gene expression and glutamate release after CSD induction were observed in mouse brain slices. The reduced cortical susceptibility to CSD by TAT-P2X7 was restored by NMDA, and disrupting the Fyn-NMDA interaction using TAT-Fyn (39-57) but not disrupting Src-NMDA receptor interaction using TAT-Src (40-49) reduced cortical susceptibility to CSD. Furthermore, activation of P2X7 receptor by BzATP restored the TAT-Fyn (39-57)-reduced cortical susceptibility to CSD.

Conclusion

This study reveals that SFKs activity transmits P2X7 receptor signaling to facilitate CSD propagation via glutamatergic pathway and promote neuroinflammation, which is of particular relevance to migraine.
Social visual attentional engagement and memory in Phelan-McDermid syndrome and autism spectrum disorder: a pilot eye tracking study
Authors: Guillory Sylvia B. , Baskett Victoria Z. , Grosman Hannah E. , McLaughlin Christopher S. , Isenstein Emily L. , Wilkinson Emma , Weissman Jordana , Britvan Bari , Trelles M. Pilar , Halpern Danielle B. , Buxbaum Joseph D. , Siper Paige M. , Wang A. Ting , Kolevzon Alexander , Foss-Feig Jennifer H.
Published: December 2021

Background

The current study used eye tracking to investigate attention and recognition memory in Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS), a rare genetic disorder characterized by intellectual disability, motor delays, and a high likelihood of comorbid autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Social deficits represent a core feature of ASD, including decreased propensity to orient to or show preference for social stimuli.

Methods

We used a visual paired-comparison task with both social and non-social images, assessing looking behavior to a novel image versus a previously viewed familiar image to characterize social attention and recognition memory in PMS (n= 22), idiopathic ASD (iASD,n= 38), and typically developing (TD) controls (n= 26). The idiopathic ASD cohort was divided into subgroups with intellectual disabilities (ID; developmental quotient < 70) and without (developmental quotient > 70) and the PMS group into those with and without a co-morbid ASD diagnosis.

Results

On measures of attention, the PMS group with a comorbid ASD diagnosis spent less time viewing the social images compared to non-social images; the rate of looking back and forth between images was lowest in the iASD with ID group. Furthermore, while all groups demonstrated intact recognition memory when novel non-social stimuli were initially presented (pre-switch), participants with PMS showed no preference during the post-switch memory presentation. In iASD, the group without ID, but not the group with ID, showed a novelty preference for social stimuli. Across indices, individuals with PMS and ASD performed more similarly to PMS without ASD and less similarly to the iASD group.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate further evidence of differences in attention and memory for social stimuli in ASD and provide contrasts between iASD and PMS.
What competencies do environmental health graduates need to manage social determinants of health?
Authors: Omid Athar , Sepyani Fateme , Yamani Nikoo , Pourzamani Hamidreza , Aghdak Pejman
Published: December 2021

Background

Graduates of environmental health engineering should be able to manage Social Determinants of Health (SDH) and acquire the essential competencies during their studies at university. This study was performed to determine the expected competencies of environmental health graduates in a way to be able to manage environmental and Social Determinants of Health according to their job description.

Methods

This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed using Delphi technique. First, the literature review was done and the Delphi technique was performed in three rounds. The purposeful sampling was used and 50 people were selected among the specialists in the field of environmental health engineering and SDH. Participants answered an open-ended question, for the first round. Then, a questionnaire with 8 areas was designed based on the results of the first round and distributed for the second round. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. The third round was done to reach the agreement on final items.

Results

The agreement on the items of the third round of Delphi was more than 70%. The final results showed eight competency areas under which 29 competencies were defined. Competency areas included expert knowledge, reasoning and planning, advocacy, system-based practice, professionalism, instructional expertise, social and personal skills and, research and self-development. The first three priorities of the required competency areas were expert knowledge (4.46 ± 0.55), professionalism (4.42 ± 0.64), and advocacy (4.32 ± 0.77).

Conclusions

It is necessary that environmental health engineers achieve necessary competencies regarding managing SDH, upon their graduation. It is suggested to integrate these competencies into the curriculum of environmental and health engineering in Iran universities.
Laser lithotripsy using dusting technique (low energy, high frequency) for symptomatic upper urinary tract stones
Authors: Ashmawy A. , Khedr M. , Saad I. R. , Zamel S. , Kassem A.
Published: December 2021

Background

A prospective study to assess the feasibility of stone dusting technique (low energy and high frequency) during laser lithotripsy in symptomatic upper urinary tract |(UUT) stones.

Methods

Sixty patients with symptomatic single or multiple UUT stones less than 3 cm in diameter were included. Patients with coagulation disorders and active UTIs were excluded. All patients were clinically evaluated and underwent non-contrast spiral CT (NCSCT) to detect stone site, size, number, Hounsfield unit. A rigid or flexible ureteroscope was used with stone dusting using the Ho: YAG laser at low-energy and high-frequency (0.5 J & 20 Hz) set. Operative and fluoroscopy time, total energy delivered, type of stent, hospitalization time, complications and its grade, and stone-free rate using NCSCT after 4 weeks were recorded.

Results

The mean stone size ± SD (range) was 1.55 ± 0.55 (0.5–3) cm; out of sixty patients (50 with single stone and 10 with multiple stones), fifty-five patients were stone-free at 4 weeks. Complications had occurred in 11 patients (eight with grade I, one with grade II, and two with grade IIIa) according to Clavien–Dindo grading of surgical complications. Stone size was the only parameter which correlated significantly with stone-free rate. No significant correlation was found between incidence of complications and other parameters (stone size, site, BMI, age and operative time).

Conclusions

Stone dusting technique is feasible, safe and effective in management of UUT stones.
Adipose tissue macrophages in aging-associated adipose tissue function
Authors: Lu Bangchao , Huang Liang , Cao Juan , Li Lingling , Wu Wenhui , Chen Xiaolin , Ding Congzhu
Published: December 2021

“Inflammaging” refers to the chronic, low-grade inflammation that characterizes aging. Aging, like obesity, is associated with visceral adiposity and insulin resistance. Adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) have played a major role in obesity-associated inflammation and insulin resistance. Macrophages are elevated in adipose tissue in aging. However, the changes and also possibly functions of ATMs in aging and aging-related diseases are unclear. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in research on the role of adipose tissue macrophages with aging-associated insulin resistance and discuss their potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating aging and aging-related diseases.
QuickPIV: Efficient 3D particle image velocimetry software applied to quantifying cellular migration during embryogenesis
Authors: Pereyra Marc , Drusko Armin , Krämer Franziska , Strobl Frederic , Stelzer Ernst H. K. , Matthäus Franziska
Published: December 2021

Background

The technical development of imaging techniques in life sciences has enabled the three-dimensional recording of living samples at increasing temporal resolutions. Dynamic 3D data sets of developing organisms allow for time-resolved quantitative analyses of morphogenetic changes in three dimensions, but require efficient and automatable analysis pipelines to tackle the resulting Terabytes of image data. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is a robust and segmentation-free technique that is suitable for quantifying collective cellular migration on data sets with different labeling schemes. This paper presents the implementation of an efficient 3D PIV package using the Julia programming language—quickPIV. Our software is focused on optimizing CPU performance and ensuring the robustness of the PIV analyses on biological data.

Results

QuickPIV is three times faster than the Python implementation hosted in openPIV, both in 2D and 3D. Our software is also faster than the fastest 2D PIV package in openPIV, written in C++. The accuracy evaluation of our software on synthetic data agrees with the expected accuracies described in the literature. Additionally, by applying quickPIV to three data sets of the embryogenesis of Tribolium castaneum, we obtained vector fields that recapitulate the migration movements of gastrulation, both in nuclear and actin-labeled embryos. We show normalized squared error cross-correlation to be especially accurate in detecting translations in non-segmentable biological image data.

Conclusions

The presented software addresses the need for a fast and open-source 3D PIV package in biological research. Currently, quickPIV offers efficient 2D and 3D PIV analyses featuring zero-normalized and normalized squared error cross-correlations, sub-pixel/voxel approximation, and multi-pass. Post-processing options include filtering and averaging of the resulting vector fields, extraction of velocity, divergence and collectiveness maps, simulation of pseudo-trajectories, and unit conversion. In addition, our software includes functions to visualize the 3D vector fields in Paraview.
Comparative transcriptomic analysis of gonadal development and renewal in the ovoviviparous black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii)
Authors: Li Jianshuang , Lyu Likang , Wen Haishen , Li Yun , Wang Xiaojie , Zhang Ying , Yao Yijia , Qi Xin
Published: December 2021

Background

The black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) has an ovoviviparous reproductive pattern and long-term sperm storage, resulting in asynchronous gonadal development between the sexes. However, the comprehensive understanding of gonadal development in black rockfish has not yet been achieved. Here, we studied gonadal development and germ cell renewal using histology and RNA-seq.

Results

In this study, RNA-seq was performed on testes and ovaries to characterize key pathways and genes that are active during development and gamete maturation in black rockfish. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and annotated in 4 comparisons (F_III vs. F_IV, F_IV vs. F_V, M_III vs. M_IV and M_IV vs. M_V). Based on analysis of DEGs enriched in the testis, 11 and 14 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were mapped to the M_III vs. M_IV group and the M_IV vs. M_V group, respectively. DEGs in ovarian development were also classified into 10 groups according to their biological functions. The expression patterns of the selected genes determined by qPCR were significantly correlated with the RNA-Seq results, supporting the reliability and accuracy of the RNA-Seq analysis. E2 levels showed down regulation from previtellogenesis to mature stage in female and T level showed down regulation from spermatogenesis to regressed stage in the male.

Conclusions

The categories “intercellular interaction and cytoskeleton”, “molecule amplification” and “repair in the cell cycle” were revealed to be crucial in testis development and spermatogenesis, as was the biosynthesis of a series of metabolites. Our results provide comprehensive insight into black rockfish gonadal development and provide a basis for further study of reproductive physiology and molecular biology in ovoviviparity teleosts.
Establishing community-wide DNA barcode references for conserving mangrove forests in China
Authors: Mao Xiaomeng , Xie Wei , Li Xinnian , Shi Suhua , Guo Zixiao
Published: December 2021

Background

Mangrove ecosystems have been the focus of global attention for their crucial role in sheltering coastal communities and retarding global climate change by sequestering ‘blue carbon’. China is relatively rich in mangrove diversity, with one-third of the ca. 70 true mangrove species and a number of mangrove associate species occurring naturally along the country’s coasts. Mangrove ecosystems, however, are widely threatened by intensifying human disturbances and rising sea levels. DNA barcoding technology may help protect mangrove ecosystems by providing rapid species identification.

Results

To investigate this potential, 898 plant specimens were collected from 33 major mangrove sites in China. Based on the morphologic diagnosis, the specimens were assigned to 72 species, including all 28 true mangrove species and all 12 mangrove associate species recorded in China. Three chloroplast DNA markers rbcL, trnH-psbA, matK, and one nuclear marker ITS2 were chosen to investigate the utility of using barcoding to identify these species. According to the criteria of barcoding gaps in genetic distance, sequence similarity, and phylogenetic monophyly, we propose that a single marker, ITS2, is sufficient to barcode the species of mangroves and their associates in China. Furthermore, rbcL or trnH-psbA can also be used to gather supplement confirming data. In using these barcodes, we revealed a very low level of genetic variation among geographic locations in the mangrove species, which is an alert to their vulnerability to climate and anthropogenic disturbances.

Conclusion

We suggest using ITS2 to barcode mangrove species and terrestrial coastal plants in South China. The DNA barcode sequences we obtained would be valuable in monitoring biodiversity and the restoration of ecosystems, which are essential for mangrove conservation.
Combining QTL-seq and linkage mapping to uncover the genetic basis of single vs. paired spikelets in the advanced populations of two-ranked maize×teosinte
Authors: Chen Zhengjie , Tang Dengguo , Hu Kun , Zhang Lei , Yin Yong , Ni Jixing , Li Peng , Wang Le , Rong Tingzhao , Liu Jian
Published: December 2021

Background

Teosinte ear bears single spikelet, whereas maize ear bears paired spikelets, doubling the number of grains in each cupulate during maize domestication. In the past 20 years, genetic analysis of single vs. paired spikelets (PEDS) has been stagnant. A better understanding of genetic basis of PEDS could help fine mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) and cloning of genes.

Results

In this study, the advanced mapping populations (BC3F2and BC4F2) of maize × teosinte were developed by phenotypic recurrent selection. Four genomic regions associated with PEDS were detected using QTL-seq, located on 194.64–299.52 Mb, 0–162.80 Mb, 12.82–97.17 Mb, and 125.06–157.01 Mb of chromosomes 1, 3, 6, and 8, respectively. Five QTL for PEDS were identified in the regions of QTL-seq using traditional QTL mapping. Each QTL explained 1.12–38.05% of the phenotypic variance (PVE); notably, QTLqPEDS3.1with the average PVE of 35.29% was identified in all tests. Moreover, 14 epistatic QTL were detected, with the total PVE of 47.57–66.81% in each test. The QTLqPEDS3.1overlapped with, or was close to, one locus of 7 epistatic QTL. Near-isogenic lines (NILs) of QTLqPEDS1.1,qPEDS3.1,qPEDS6.1, andqPEDS8.1were constructed. All individuals of NIL-qPEDS6.1(MT1) and NIL-qPEDS8.1(MT1) showed paired spikelets (PEDS = 0), but the flowering time was 7 days shorter in the NIL-qPEDS8.1(MT1). The ratio of plants with PEDS > 0 was low (1/18 to 3/18) in the NIL-qPEDS1.1(MT1) and NIL-qPEDS3.1(MT1), maybe due to the epistatic effect.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that major QTL, minor QTL, epistasis and photoperiod were associated with the variation of PEDS, which help us better understand the genetic basis of PEDS and provide a genetic resource for fine mapping of QTL.
Genome-wide identification and analysis of Oleosin gene family in four cotton species and its involvement in oil accumulation and germination
Authors: Yuan Yanchao , Cao Xinzhe , Zhang Haijun , Liu Chunying , Zhang Yuxi , Song Xian-Liang , Gai Shupeng
Published: December 2021

Background

Cotton is not only a major textile fiber crop but also a vital oilseed, industrial, and forage crop. Oleosins are the structural proteins of oil bodies, influencing their size and the oil content in seeds. In addition, the degradation of oleosins is involved in the mobilization of lipid and oil bodies during seed germination. However, comprehensive identification and the systematic analysis of the Oleosin gene (OLEOs) family have not been conducted in cotton.

Results

An in-depth analysis has enabled us to identify 25 and 24 OLEOs in tetraploid cotton species G. hirsutum and G. barbadense, respectively, while 12 and 13 OLEOs were identified in diploid species G. arboreum and G. raimondii, respectively. The 74 OLEOs were further clustered into three lineages according to the phylogenetic tree. Synteny analysis revealed that most of the OLEOs were conserved and that WGD or segmental duplications might drive their expansion. The transmembrane helices in GhOLEO proteins were predicted, and three transmembrane models were summarized, in which two were newly proposed. A total of 24 candidate miRNAs targeting GhOLEOs were predicted. Three highly expressed oil-related OLEOs, GH_A07G0501 (SL), GH_D10G0941 (SH), and GH_D01G1686 (U), were cloned, and their subcellular localization and function were analyzed. Their overexpression in Arabidopsis increased seed oil content and decreased seed germination rates.

Conclusion

We identified OLEO gene family in four cotton species and performed comparative analyses of their relationships, conserved structure, synteny, and gene duplication. The subcellular localization and function of three highly expressed oil-related OLEOs were detected. These results lay the foundation for further functional characterization of OLEOs and improving seed oil content.
A cotransformation system of the unicellular red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae with blasticidin S deaminase and chloramphenicol acetyltransferase selectable markers
Authors: Fujiwara Takayuki , Hirooka Shunsuke , Miyagishima Shin-ya
Published: December 2021

Background

The unicellular red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae exhibits a very simple cellular and genomic architecture. In addition, procedures for genetic modifications, such as gene targeting by homologous recombination and inducible/repressible gene expression, have been developed. However, only two markers for selecting transformants, uracil synthase (URA) and chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT), are available in this alga. Therefore, manipulation of two or more different chromosomal loci in the same strain in C. merolae is limited.

Results

This study developed a nuclear targeting and transformant selection system using an antibiotics blasticidin S (BS) and the BS deaminase (BSD) selectable marker by homologous recombination in C. merolae. In addition, this study has succeeded in simultaneously modifying two different chromosomal loci by a single-step cotransformation based on the combination of BSD and CAT selectable markers. A C. merolae strain that expresses mitochondrion-targeted mSCARLET (with the BSD marker) and mVENUS (with the CAT marker) from different chromosomal loci was generated with this procedure.

Conclusions

The newly developed BSD selectable marker enables an additional genetic modification to the already generated C. merolae transformants based on the URA or CAT system. Furthermore, the cotransformation system facilitates multiple genetic modifications. These methods and the simple nature of the C. merolae cellular and genomic architecture will facilitate studies on several phenomena common to photosynthetic eukaryotes.
Cardiovascular risk in patients with and without diabetes presenting with chronic coronary syndrome in 2004–2016
Authors: Jensen Esben Skov , Olesen Kevin Kris Warnakula , Gyldenkerne Christine , Thrane Pernille Gro , Jensen Lisette Okkels , Raungaard Bent , Poulsen Per Løgstrup , Thomsen Reimar Wernich , Maeng Michael
Published: December 2021

Background

It was recently shown that new-onset diabetes patients without previous cardiovascular disease have experienced a markedly reduced risk of adverse cardiovascular events from 1996 to 2011. However, it remains unknown if similar improvements are present following the diagnosis of chronic coronary syndrome. The purpose of this study was to examine the change in cardiovascular risk among diabetes patients with chronic coronary syndrome from 2004 to 2016.

Methods

We included patients with documentation of coronary artery disease by coronary angiography between 2004 and 2016 in Western Denmark. Patients were stratified by year of index coronary angiography (2004–2006, 2007–2009, 2010–2012, and 2013–2016) and followed for two years. The main outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined as myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or death. Analyses were performed separately in patients with and without diabetes. We estimated two-year risk of each outcome and adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRR) using patients examined in 2004-2006 as reference.

Results

Among 5931 patients with diabetes, two-year MACE risks were 8.4% in 2004–2006, 8.5% in 2007–2009, and then decreased to 6.2% in 2010–2012 and 6.7% in 2013–2016 (2013–2016 vs 2004–2006: aIRR 0.70, 95% CI 0.53–0.93). In comparison, 23,540 patients without diabetes had event rates of 6.3%, 5.2%, 4.2%, and 3.9% for the study intervals (2013–2016 vs 2004–2006: aIRR 0.57, 95% CI 0.48–0.68).

Conclusions

Between 2004 and 2016, the two-year relative risk of MACE decreased by 30% in patients with diabetes and chronic coronary syndrome, but slightly larger absolute and relative reductions were observed in patients without diabetes.
The LUCID study: living with ulcerative colitis; identifying the socioeconomic burden in Europe
Authors: Ruiz-Casas Leonardo , Evans Jonathan , Rose Alison , Pedra Gabriel Ghizzi , Lobo Alan , Finnegan Alan , Hayee Bu , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Sturm Andreas , Burisch Johan , Terry Helen , Avedano Luisa , Tucknott Seb , Fiorino Gionata , Limdi Jimmy
Published: December 2021

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease with increasing prevalence worldwide. Current treatment strategies place considerable economic and humanistic burdens on patients. The aim of this study was to determine the socioeconomic burden of UC in adult patients in European countries in a real-world setting.

Methods

In this retrospective, cross-sectional and observational pan-European study, patients with moderate or severe UC were assigned to ARM 1 and patients who had moderate or severe UC but achieved mild or remission status 12 months before index date (or clinical consultation date), were assigned to ARM 2. Clinical and medical resource use data were collected via electronic case report forms, and data on non-medical and indirect costs, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were collected via patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) questionnaires. Per-patient annual total costs per ARM and per country were calculated using the collated resource use in the last 12 months (between the start of the documentation period and patient consultation or index date) and country specific unit costs. Quality of life was described by arm and by country.

Results

In the physician-reported eCRF population (n = 2966), the mean annual direct medical cost was €4065 in ARM 1 (n = 1835) and €2935 in ARM 2 (n = 1131). In the PPIE population (ARM 1, n = 1001; ARM 2, n = 647), mean annual direct cost was €4526 in ARM 1 and €3057 in ARM 2, mean annual direct non-medical cost was €1162 in ARM 1 and €1002 in ARM 2, mean annual indirect cost was €3098 in ARM 1 and €2309 ARM 2, and mean annual total cost was in €8787 in ARM 1 and €6368 in ARM 2. HRQoL scores showed moderate to high burden of UC in both groups.

Conclusions

The cost and HRQoL burden were high in patients in both ARM 1 and ARM 2 indicating unmet needs in the UC active population.
Physical interventions for people with more advanced dementia – a scoping review
Authors: Hall Abigail J. , Febrey Samantha , Goodwin Victoria A.
Published: December 2021

Background

Dementia is a neuro-degenerative condition resulting in cognitive and physical decline over time. In the early stages of the condition, physical decline may be slow, but in the later stages, it may become more pronounced. Physical interventions may be employed to try and reduce the physical decline that people experience, yet it is unclear what interventions may be effective. The aim of this study was to explore the breadth and quantity of evidence that exists in relation to the delivery of physical interventions for people with advanced dementia.

Methods

We undertook a scoping review in order to map the current literature. All types of study design were included in the search in order to gain a comprehensive scope of the literature. We searched a variety of databases from inception until March 2021, focusing on physical interventions. Double screening and data extraction were employed in order to increase the reliability of the results.

Results

Our review found four studies which focused on physical interventions aimed at improving physical outcomes for people with more advanced dementia. The majority of studies were excluded as their interventions were not specific to people with advanced dementia. The studies that were included incorporated functional activities and, despite small sample sizes, suggested statistically significant improvements in outcomes for people with advanced dementia.

Conclusion

There is currently limited evidence relating to physical rehabilitation interventions for people with more advanced dementia, however, the evidence we presented suggests potential benefits for physical outcomes. Future research should focus on robust research to determine the most effective and cost-effective interventions that meet the needs of this population.
Ageing rate of older adults affects the factors associated with, and the determinants of malnutrition in the community: a systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Bardon Laura A. , Corish Clare A. , Lane Meabh , Bizzaro Maria Gabriella , Loayza Villarroel Katherine , Clarke Michelle , Power Lauren C. , Gibney Eileen R. , Dominguez Castro Patricia
Published: December 2021

Background

Malnutrition negatively impacts on health, quality of life and disease outcomes in older adults. The reported factors associated with, and determinants of malnutrition, are inconsistent between studies. These factors may vary according to differences in rate of ageing. This review critically examines the evidence for the most frequently reported sociodemographic factors and determinants of malnutrition and identifies differences according to rates of ageing.

Methods

A systematic search of the PubMed Central and Embase databases was conducted in April 2019 to identify papers on ageing and poor nutritional status. Numerous factors were identified, including factors from demographic, food intake, lifestyle, social, physical functioning, psychological and disease-related domains. Where possible, community-dwelling populations assessed within the included studies (N = 68) were categorised according to their ageing rate: ‘successful’, ‘usual’ or ‘accelerated’.

Results

Low education level and unmarried status appear to be more frequently associated with malnutrition within the successful ageing category. Indicators of declining mobility and function are associated with malnutrition and increase in severity across the ageing categories. Falls and hospitalisation are associated with malnutrition irrespective of rate of ageing. Factors associated with malnutrition from the food intake, social and disease-related domains increase in severity in the accelerated ageing category. Having a cognitive impairment appears to be a determinant of malnutrition in successfully ageing populations whilst dementia is reported to be associated with malnutrition within usual and accelerated ageing populations.

Conclusions

This review summarises the factors associated with malnutrition and malnutrition risk reported in community-dwelling older adults focusing on differences identified according to rate of ageing. As the rate of ageing speeds up, an increasing number of factors are reported within the food intake, social and disease-related domains; these factors increase in severity in the accelerated ageing category. Knowledge of the specific factors and determinants associated with malnutrition according to older adults’ ageing rate could contribute to the identification and prevention of malnutrition. As most studies included in this review were cross-sectional, longitudinal studies and meta-analyses comprehensively assessing potential contributory factors are required to establish the true determinants of malnutrition.