bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Failure Probability Evaluation Method for the Collapse of Drill-Blast Tunnels Based on a Multistate Cloud Bayesian Network
Authors: Meng Guowang , Liu Jialiang , Qiu Weixing , Wu Bo , Xu Shixiang
Published: March 2022

Collapse is one of the main dangers of tunnel construction using the drill-blast method. To assess the risk of collapse and provide a basis for risk control, a failure probability evaluation method for tunnel collapse based on a Bayesian network (BN) and normal cloud theory is proposed in this paper. First, typical tunnel collapse cases are analysed statistically based on the risk breakdown structure method, a Bayesian network model is built for drill-blast tunnel collapse and the causal relationships between the tunnel collapse and influential factors, such as geological factors and construction management factors, are revealed. Second, the multiple fault states of the risk factors are described using fuzzy numbers. A multi-state fuzzy conditional probability table of uncertain logical relationships between nodes is established using normal cloud theory to describe node failure probabilities. Finally, this paper will consider the entire life cycle of risk-prone events, including pre-incident, dynamic evaluation of the construction process and post-incident control. A typical tunnel collapse incident encountered during the construction of the Jinzuba Tunnel in Fujian was used as an example to verify the applicability of the method.
Ecological Impacts of Altered Stream Hydrogeomorphic Characteristics Extend Beyond the Channel Boundary: Evidence From Urban Streams of Columbus, OH, United States
Authors: Rieck Leslie O. , Sulliván S. Mažeika Patricio
Published: March 2022

Urbanization in stream catchments can have strong effects on stream channel hydrogeomorphic features including channel dimensions, channel-floodplain connectivity, and flood regime. However, the consequences of hydrogeomorphic alterations on aquatic-terrestrial subsidy dynamics are largely unexplored. We examined the associations among hydrogeomorphic characteristics, emergent aquatic insect assemblages, and the density and trophic dynamics of riparian spiders of the family Tetragnathidae at 23 small urban stream reaches in the Columbus, OH (United States) Metropolitan Area. Naturally abundant stable isotopes of 13C and 15N were used to quantify the relative contribution of aquatically derived energy (i.e., nutritional pathways deriving from algae) to tetragnathid spiders and their trophic position. Bankfull discharge was negatively related to both emergence rate and family richness. On average, tetragnathid spiders relied on aquatically derived energy for 36% of their nutrition, with the greatest reliance found for spiders next to channels with wider flood-prone widths and proportionally fewer emergent insects of the family Chironomidae. Mean emergent aquatic insect reliance on aquatically derived energy was 32% and explained 44% of the variation in tetragnathid aquatically derived energy. A positive relationship between δ13C of tetragnathid spiders and emergent insects provides additional evidence of tetragnathid reliance on emergent insects. Mean tetragnathid trophic position was 2.85 and was positively associated with channel sinuosity and negatively associated with aquatic insect emergence rate. Sinuosity was also positively related to aquatically derived energy of emergent aquatic insects; as well as emergent insect family richness; % Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT); and aquatic insect emergence rate; implicating instream habitat-mediated shifts in emergent aquatic insect communities as an indirect mechanistic link between hydrogeomorphic processes and spiders. Our findings underscore that the impacts of stream hydrogeomorphic alterations can cascade into terrestrial food webs. These results suggest that monitoring and restoration of fluvial geomorphic form and function (e.g., sinuosity, slope, and hydrology) confer benefits to both aquatic and terrestrial riparian ecosystems in urban catchments.
Why Urban Ecology Matters in Ethiopia
Authors: Perry Gad , Gebresenbet Fikirte , DaPra Michelle , Branco Patricia , Whibesilassie Wondmagegne , Jelacic Matthew , Eyob Abel Estifanos
Published: March 2022

Three concurrent global environmental trends are particularly apparent: human population growth, urbanization, and climate change. Especially in countries such as Ethiopia in the Global South, all three are impacted by, and in turn have bearing upon, social justice and equity. Combined, these spatial and social factors reduce wellbeing, leading to increasing urgency to create urban environments that are more livable, resilient, and adaptive. However, the impacts on, and of, non-human urban residents, particularly on the ecosystem services they provide, are often neglected. We review the literature using the One Health theoretical framework and focusing on Ethiopia as a case-study. We argue for specific urban strategies that benefit humans and also have spillover effects that benefit other species, and vice versa. For example, urban trees provide shade, clean the air, help combat climate change, create more livable neighborhoods, and offer habitat for many species. Similarly, urban neighborhoods that attract wildlife have characteristics that also make them more desirable for humans, resulting in improved health outcomes, higher livability, and enhanced real-estate values. After summarizing the present state of knowledge about urban ecology, we emphasize components relevant to the developing world in general and pre- COVID-19 pandemic Ethiopia in particular, then expand the discussion to include social justice and equity concerns in the built environment. Prior to the ongoing civil war, Ethiopia was beginning to invest in more sustainable urbanization and serve as a model. Especially in light of the conflict and pandemic, much more will need to be done.
Pro-Inflammatory Derangement of the Immuno-Interactome in Heart Failure
Authors: Kumar Pavanish , Lim Amanda , Poh Su Li , Hazirah Sharifah Nur , Chua Camillus Jian Hui , Sutamam Nursyuhadah Binte , Arkachaisri Thaschawee , Yeo Joo Guan , Kofidis Theo , Sorokin Vitaly , Lam Carolyn S. P. , Richards Arthur Mark , Albani Salvatore
Published: March 2022

Chronic heart failure (HF) is a syndrome of heterogeneous etiology associated with multiple co-morbidities. Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a key contributor to the pathophysiology of HF. Heterogeneity and lack of data on the immune mechanism(s) contributing to HF may partially underlie the failure of clinical trials targeting inflammatory mediators. We studied the Immunome in HF cohort using mass cytometry and used data-driven systems immunology approach to discover and characterize modulated immune cell subsets from peripheral blood. We showed cytotoxic and inflammatory innate lymphoid and myeloid cells were expanded in HF patients compared to healthy controls. Network analysis showed highly modular and centralized immune cell architecture in healthy control immune cell network. In contrast, the HF immune cell network showed greater inter-cellular communication and less modular structure. Furthermore, we found, as an immune mechanism specific to HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), an increase in inflammatory MAIT and CD4 T cell subsets.
Innate Lymphoid Cells Are Required to Induce Airway Hyperreactivity in a Murine Neutrophilic Asthma Model
Authors: Jonckheere Anne-Charlotte , Seys Sven F. , Steelant Brecht , Decaesteker Tatjana , Dekoster Kaat , Cremer Jonathan , Dilissen Ellen , Schols Dominique , Iwakura Yoichiro , Vande Velde Greetje , Breynaert Christine , Schrijvers Rik , Vanoirbeek Jeroen , Ceuppens Jan L. , Dupont Lieven J. , Bullens Dominique M. A.
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Non-allergic asthma is driven by multiple endotypes of which neutrophilic and pauci-granulocytic asthma have been best established. However, it is still puzzling what drives inflammation and airway hyperreactivity (AHR) in these patients and how it can be treated effectively. Recently, a potential role of the innate immune system and especially the innate lymphoid cells (ILC) has been proposed.

Objective

In this study, we investigated the effects of LPS inhalation on airway inflammation and AHR as a potential model for elucidating the pathogenesis of non-allergic asthma.

Methods

Wild-type (BALB/c), SCID, IL-17A-/-, and Rag2-/- γC-/- mice were endonasally exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 2 µg) on four consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the last exposure, AHR to methacholine was assessed. Cytokine levels and ILC subpopulations were determined in lung tissue. Cellular differential analysis was performed in BAL fluid.

Main Results

In this study, we developed a murine model for non-allergic neutrophilic asthma. We found that repeated endonasal applications of low-dose LPS in BALB/c mice led to AHR, BAL neutrophilia, and a significant increase in lung ILC3 as well as a significant increase in lung chemokines KC and MIP-2 and cytokines IL-1β, IL-17A, IL-22, and TNF. The adoptive transfer of ILC in Rag2-/- γC-/- mice showed that ILC played a causal role in the induction of AHR in this model. Antagonising IL-1β, but not IL-17A or neutrophils, resulted in a partial reduction in LPS-induced AHR.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we report here a murine model for neutrophilic asthma where ILC are required to induce airway hyperreactivity.
Double-Negative T Cells Regulate Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation to Promote Liver Fibrosis Progression via NLRP3
Authors: Yang Yi , Sheng Yongjia , Wang Jin , Zhou Xiaohong , Li Wenyan , Zhang Caiqun , Guo Li , Han Chenyang
Published: March 2022

Aim

We mainly explored the role and mechanism of double-negative T cells (DNTs) in liver fibrosis.

Methods

DNTs were co-cultured with mouse hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Later, cell viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay; α-SMA expression was measured through fluorescence staining; TNF-α, IL-6, and MMP-9 levels were measured by ELISA; and the expression of Bcl-2, TGF-β1, NLRP3, ASC, and TNFR1 proteins in HSCs was detected by Western blotting (WB) assay. At the same time, HSC-NLRP3−/− and HSC-TNFR1−/− are used to explore the mechanism. In mouse experiments, mice were intraperitoneally injected with DNTs; afterward, the hepatic tissue fibrosis degree was detected by Masson staining, α-SMA expression was measured through immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay, and histopathological changes were detected by sirius-red staining and H&E staining.

Results

The results suggested that DNTs promoted HSC activation and NLRP3 activation. The effect of DNTs on activating HSC-NLRP3−/− was suppressed, and the difference was significant as compared with HSCs. HSC-TNFR1−/− activation was also inhibited. To explore the mechanism of DNT-secreted TNF-α in TNFR1-NLRP3 activation, we transfected DNTs with TNF-α siRNA; as a result, DNTs with TNF-α silencing did not significantly affect HSC activation. DNTs promoted hepatic tissue fibrosis progression and HSC activation; after treatment with NLRP3 inhibitor, the effect of DNTs on promoting fibrosis was suppressed.

Conclusion

We discovered that DNTs played an important role in liver fibrosis and that DNTs promoted HSC activation via the TNF-α–TNFR1-NLRP3 signal axis, thus further promoting liver fibrosis progression.
Experimental Study on Direct Tensile Properties of Cemented Paste Backfill
Authors: Guo Lijie , Peng Xiaopeng , Zhao Yue , Liu Guangsheng , Tang Guoxing , Pan Andrew
Published: March 2022

Cemented paste backfill (CPB) has been increasingly utilized in mines for efficient mineral obtaining and regional ground support. To guarantee the work performance, the mechanical properties of CPB have long been a topic of study among researchers. But the research progress on the tensile strength of CPB is limited, mainly because of the lack of an appropriate test method due to the low tensile strength of CPB. Therefore, instead of the conventional splitting indirect tensile strength test method, a new direct tension test method, which utilizes the specifically designed compression to tension load converter (CTLC) and dog-bone-shaped specimen, has been applied to study the direct tensile properties of CPB. In this study, the direct tensile strength (DTS) of 47 CPB mix designs were measured using CTLC, and the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of the corresponding mix design was also tested. The experimental results showed that the increase in the binder content, solid mass content, and curing period led to higher CPB direct tensile strength, and the DTS of CPB was most sensitive to the binder content. Furthermore, the influence of the slurry mass solid content on the tensile strength of CPB was not linear. The influence of the binder content became increasingly notable with the increase in the solid content, especially if the binder content exceeded 75%. The effect of the curing period was found to be rather marginal due to the decreasing amount of un-hydrated cementitious materials left with the increase of the curing period. Overall, the DTS generated using dog-bone specimens and the CTLC apparatus are valid for better mine backfill designs. Finally, a linear correlative between UCS and DTS with a formula in the form of σDT (DTS) = 0.171 σc (UCS) was obtained, and the correlation was sufficient for further calculation of DTS using measured UCS.
Pathogenesis of Multiple Organ Failure: The Impact of Systemic Damage to Plasma Membranes
Authors: Kozlov Andrey V. , Grillari Johannes
Published: March 2022

Multiple organ failure (MOF) is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in intensive care patients, but the mechanisms causing this severe syndrome are still poorly understood. Inflammatory response, tissue hypoxia, immune and cellular metabolic dysregulations, and endothelial and microvascular dysfunction are the main features of MOF, but the exact mechanisms leading to MOF are still unclear. Recent progress in the membrane research suggests that cellular plasma membranes play an important role in key functions of diverse organs. Exploration of mechanisms contributing to plasma membrane damage and repair suggest that these processes can be the missing link in the development of MOF. Elevated levels of extracellular phospholipases, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, pore-forming proteins (PFPs), and dysregulation of osmotic homeostasis occurring upon systemic inflammatory response are the major extracellular inducers of plasma membrane damage, which may simultaneously operate in different organs causing their profound dysfunction. Hypoxia activates similar processes, but they predominantly occur within the cells targeting intracellular membrane compartments and ultimately causing cell death. To combat the plasma membrane damage cells have developed several repair mechanisms, such as exocytosis, shedding, and protein-driven membrane remodeling. Analysis of knowledge on these mechanisms reveals that systemic damage to plasma membranes may be associated with potentially reversible MOF, which can be quickly recovered, if pathological stimuli are eliminated. Alternatively, it can be transformed in a non-resolving phase, if repair mechanisms are not sufficient to deal with a large damage or if the damage is extended to intracellular compartments essential for vital cellular functions.
Prolonged Shedding of SARS-CoV-2 in Feces of COVID-19 Positive Patients: Trends in Genomic Variation in First and Second Wave
Authors: Lavania Mallika , Joshi Madhuri S. , Ranshing Sujata S. , Potdar Varsha A. , Shinde Manohar , Chavan Nutan , Jadhav Santosh M. , Sarkale Prasad , Mohandas Sreelekshmy , Sawant Pradeep M. , Tikute Sanjaykumar , Padbidri Vikram , Patwardhan Sampada , Kate Rohan
Published: March 2022

The main route of the transmission of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are through respiratory pathways and close contact of human-to-human. While information about other modes of transmission is comparatively less, some published literature supporting the likelihood of a fecal-oral mode of transmission has been accumulating. The diagnosis of SARS-COV-2 infected cases is based on the real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). The fecal excretion of SARS-COV-2 has been reported frequently, however, the role of fecal viral load with the severity of disease is not yet clear. Our study focused on the investigation of SARS-CoV-2 shedding in the fecal samples of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A total of 280 RT-PCR-positive patients were enrolled, among them 15.4% had gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. It was shown that 62% of the patients were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in fecal specimens. This positivity was not related to the presence of GI symptoms and the severity of disease. The next generation sequencing [NGS] of SARS-CoV-2 from fecal samples of patients was performed to analyze mutational variations. Findings from this study not only emphasized the potential presence of SARS-CoV-2 in feces, but also its continuing mutational changes and its possible role in fecal-oral transmission.
Efficacy and Feasibility of an Osteopathic Intervention for Neurocognitive and Behavioral Symptoms Usually Associated With Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Cases-Solé Ramon , Varillas-Delgado David , Astals-Vizcaino Marta , García-Algar Óscar
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of a 4-week planned osteopathic manipulative treatment intervention on the improvement of neurocognitive and behavioral symptoms usually associated with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Thirty-two symptomatic children without fetal alcohol spectrum disorder aged 3–6 years with low level of attention from two schools and an osteopathic center were recruited in a prospective randomized pilot study in an osteopathic manipulative treatment group [osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)] or a control group (standard support measures). Neurocognitive maturity test results for attention (A), iconic memory (IM), spatial structuration (SS), and visual perception (VP) were recorded at baseline and post-intervention. No adverse effects were communicated and there were no dropouts. A significant increase in neurocognitive assessments was observed in children in the OMT group at post-treatment. Intergroup post-intervention statistical differences were found for A, SS, and IM were p = 0.005, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively; no differences were seen for VP (p = 0.097). This study shows that a 4-week osteopathic manipulative treatment intervention may be a feasible and effective therapeutic approach for neurocognitive and behavioral symptoms usually present in fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, justifying more studies on children affected by this condition.
Nitrate Derived From Beetroot Juice Lowers Blood Pressure in Patients With Arterial Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Benjamim Cicero Jonas R. , Porto Andrey Alves , Valenti Vitor Engrácia , Sobrinho Andressa Crystine da Silva , Garner David M. , Gualano Bruno , Bueno Júnior Carlos Roberto
Published: March 2022

Background

Although there are a considerable number of clinical studies on nitrate (NO3) rich beetroot juice (BRJ) and hypertension, it is difficult to indicate the real effects of NO3 from BRJ on the BP of hypertensive patients because there are still no estimates of the effects of NO3 derived from BRJ on the BP of hypertension patients.

Objective

To clarify these effects, we developed a systematic literature review with a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

Design

The searches were accomplished through EMBASE, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and LILACS databases. The study included single or double-blinded RCTs and participants older than 18 years with hypertension [systolic BP (SBP) > 130 mmHg and diastolic BP (DBP) > 80 mmHg]. NO3 BRJ was required to be consumed in a format that possibly blinded participants/researchers. These studies should also report the SBP and DBP values (mmHg) measured before and after the treatment. Risk of Bias tools and GRADE were enforced.

Results

Seven studies were included (218 participants). BRJ intervention time ranged from 3 to 60 days with daily dosages of 70–250 mL of BRJ. After the intervention with NO3 from BRJ, SBP underwent significant changes (p < 0.001) of −4.95 (95% CI: −8.88; −1.01) (GRADE: ⊕⊕⊕○ Moderate), but not for DBP (p = 0.06) −0.90 mmHg (95% CI: −3.16; 1.36) (GRADE: ⊕⊕⊕○ Moderate), compared to the control group.

Conclusions

The NO3 derived from BRJ reduces SBP, but not DBP in patients with arterial hypertension.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=269339.
Response Prediction to Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Delta-Radiomics Based on Sequential Whole-Tumor ADC Map
Authors: An Dianzheng , Cao Qiang , Su Na , Li Wanhu , Li Zhe , Liu Yanxiao , Zhang Yuxing , Li Baosheng
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the radiomics features (RFs) extracted from a whole-tumor ADC map during the early treatment course and response to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

Patients with ESCC who received concurrent chemoradiotherapy were enrolled in two hospitals. Whole-tumor ADC values and RFs were extracted from sequential ADC maps before treatment, after the 5th radiation, and after the 10th radiation, and the changes of ADC values and RFs were calculated as the relative difference between different time points. RFs were selected and further imported to a support vector machine classifier for building a radiomics signature. Radiomics signatures were obtained from both RFs extracted from pretreatment images and three sets of delta-RFs. Prediction models for different responders based on clinical characteristics and radiomics signatures were built up with logistic regression.

Results

Patients (n=76) from hospital 1 were randomly assigned to training (n=53) and internal testing set (n=23) in a ratio of 7 to 3. In addition, to further test the performance of the model, data from another institute (n=17) were assigned to the external testing set. Neither ADC values nor delta-ADC values were correlated with treatment response in the three sets. It showed a predictive effect to treatment response that the AUC values of the radiomics signature built from delta-RFs over the first 2 weeks were 0.824, 0.744, and 0.742 in the training, the internal testing, and the external testing set, respectively. Compared with the evaluated response, the performance of response prediction in the internal testing set was acceptable (p = 0.048).

Conclusions

The ADC map-based delta-RFs during the early course of treatment were effective to predict the response to cCRT in patients with ESCC.
A Nomogram Based on Molecular Biomarkers and Radiomics to Predict Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Qiu Xiaoming , Fu Yufei , Ye Yu , Wang Zhen , Cao Changjian
Published: March 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility and efficacy of a non-invasive quantitative imaging evaluation model to assess the lymphatic metastasis of breast cancer based on a radiomics signature constructed using conventional T1-weighted image (T1WI) enhanced MRI and molecular biomarkers.

Methods

Patients with breast cancer diagnosed via lymph biopsies between June 2015 and June 2019 were selected for the study. All patients underwent T1WI contrast-enhancement before treatment; lymph biopsy after surgery; and simultaneous Ki-67, COX-2, PR, Her2 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen detection. All images were imported into ITK-SNAP for whole tumor delineation, and AK software was used for radiomics feature extraction. Next, the radiomics signature Rad-score was constructed after reduction of specific radiomic features. A multiple regression logistic model was built by combining the Rad-score and molecular biomarkers based on the minimum AIC.

Results

In all, 100 patients were enrolled in this study, including 45 with non-lymph node (LN) metastasis and 55 with LN metastasis. A total of 1,051 texture feature parameters were extracted, and LASSO was used to reduce the dimensionality of the radiomics features. The log(λ) was set to 0.002786, and 19 parameters were retained for the construction of the radiomics tag Rad-score. ROC was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of Rad-score: the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the Rad-score for identifying non-lymphatic and lymphatic metastases was 0.891 in the training cohort and 0.744 in the validation cohort. With the incorporation of tumor molecular markers, the AUCs of the training cohort and validation cohort of the nomogram were 0.936 and 0.793, respectively, which were notably higher than the AUCs of the clinical parameters in the training and validation cohorts (0.719 and 0.588, respectively).

Conclusion

The combined model constructed using the Rad-score and molecular biomarkers can be used as an effective non-invasive method to assess LN metastasis of breast cancer. Furthermore, it can be used to quantitatively evaluate the risk of breast cancer LN metastasis before surgery.
Real-World Data of Different Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in China
Authors: Miao Kang , Zhang Xiaotong , Wang Hanping , Si Xiaoyan , Ni Jun , Zhong Wei , Zhao Jing , Xu Yan , Chen Minjiang , Pan Ruili , Wang Mengzhao , Zhang Li
Published: March 2022

Background

Patients treated with immunotherapy in the real-world may have significantly different responses to those meeting inclusion criteria for random controlled clinical studies. There is a partial overlap in approved indications for the use of the different immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) currently available. A comprehensive assessment of the efficacy, safety and economic effects of various ICIs is a problem that clinicians need to address.

Methods

Analyzed real-world data was collected from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who were treated with ICIs from hospitalized patients in the Lung Cancer Center of Peking Union Medical College Hospital between 2018 and 2021. The objectives were to evaluate the efficacy and safety of different ICIs for the treatment of NSCLC in China and to investigate the factors affecting their curative effects.

Results

Overall, 351 patients were included in the retrospective study. The median PFS for the NSCLC patient cohort treated with medication regimens that included ICIs was 9.5 months, with an ORR of 47.3%. There were no significant discrepancies in efficacy and safety between the different ICIs administered. Factors that had the greatest impact on the efficacy of ICIs were the disease stage, ECOG-PS scores and treatment lines. Gender, age, smoking history, PD-L1 TPS expression, history of targeted therapy and irAEs all had a degree of influence on patient prognosis.

Conclusions

The study reports the experience of real-world usage of ICIs for the treatment of NSCLC patients in China. The results were generally consistent with those of clinical trials, while the efficacy and safety of different ICIs exhibited no statistically significant differences. Therefore, physicians can make a comprehensive choice based on the indications and cost of different ICIs and the preferences of patients.
A Critical Review of Zebrafish Models of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Doyle Jillian M. , Croll Roger P.
Published: March 2022

A wide variety of human diseases have been modelled in zebrafish, including various types of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Recent reviews have summarized the currently available zebrafish models of Parkinson’s Disease, which include gene-based, chemically induced and chemogenetic ablation models. The present review updates the literature, critically evaluates each of the available models of Parkinson’s Disease in zebrafish and compares them with similar models in invertebrates and mammals to determine their advantages and disadvantages. We examine gene-based models, including ones linked to Early-Onset Parkinson’s Disease: PARKIN, PINK1, DJ-1, and SNCA; but we also examine LRRK2, which is linked to Late-Onset Parkinson’s Disease. We evaluate chemically induced models like MPTP, 6-OHDA, rotenone and paraquat, as well as chemogenetic ablation models like metronidazole-nitroreductase. The article also reviews the unique advantages of zebrafish, including the abundance of behavioural assays available to researchers and the efficiency of high-throughput screens. This offers a rare opportunity for assessing the potential therapeutic efficacy of pharmacological interventions. Zebrafish also are very amenable to genetic manipulation using a wide variety of techniques, which can be combined with an array of advanced microscopic imaging methods to enable in vivo visualization of cells and tissue. Taken together, these factors place zebrafish on the forefront of research as a versatile model for investigating disease states. The end goal of this review is to determine the benefits of using zebrafish in comparison to utilising other animals and to consider the limitations of zebrafish for investigating human disease.
Warm-Up With Added Respiratory Dead Space Volume Mask Improves the Performance of the Cycling Sprint Interval Exercise: Cross-Over Study
Authors: Danek Natalia , Michalik Kamil , Zatoń Marek
Published: March 2022

Special breathing exercises performed during warm-up lead to hypercapnia and stimulation of mechanisms leading to increased exercise performance, but the effect of a device that increases the respiratory dead space volume (ARDSv) during warm-up has not been studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 10 min warm-up with ARDSv on performance, physiological and biochemical responses during sprint interval cycling exercise (SIE). During four laboratory visits at least 72 h apart, they completed: (1) an incremental exercise test (IET) on a cycloergometer, (2) a familiarization session, and cross-over SIE sessions conducted in random order on visits (3) and (4). During one of them, 1200 mL of ARDSv was used for breathing over a 10-min warm-up. SIE consisted of 6 × 10-s all-out bouts with 4-min active recovery. Work capacity, cardiopulmonary parameters, body temperature, respiratory muscle strength, blood acid-base balance, lactate concentration, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were analyzed. After warm-up with ARDSv, PETCO2 was 45.0 ± 3.7 vs. 41.6 ± 2.5 (mm Hg) (p < 0.001). Body temperature was 0.6 (°C) higher after this form of warm-up (p < 0.05), bicarbonate concentration increased by 1.8 (mmol⋅L–1) (p < 0.01). As a result, work performed was 2.9% greater (p < 0.01) compared to the control condition. Respiratory muscle strength did not decreased. Warming up with added respiratory dead space volume mask prior to cycling SIE produces an ergogenic effect by increasing body temperature and buffering capacity.
Effect of Stressors on the mRNA Expressions of Neurosecretory Protein GL and Neurosecretory Protein GM in Chicks
Authors: Kato Masaki , Iwakoshi-Ukena Eiko , Narimatsu Yuki , Furumitsu Megumi , Ukena Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2022

We recently discovered novel cDNAs encoding the precursors of two small secretory proteins, neurosecretory protein GL (NPGL) and neurosecretory protein GM (NPGM), in the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) of chickens. In addition, we found colocalization of NPGL, NPGM, and histidine decarboxylase (HDC; histamine-producing enzyme) in same neurons of the medial mammillary nucleus of the hypothalamus. In this study, we elucidated the effect of several stresses, including food deprivation, environmental heat, inflammation, and social isolation, on the mRNA expression of NPGL, NPGM, and HDC in chicks using real-time PCR. Food deprivation for 24 h increased NPGM mRNA expression in the MBH. On the other hand, an environmental temperature of 37°C for 24 h did not affect their mRNA expression. Six hours after intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide, an inducer of inflammation, the mRNA expression of NPGM, but not that of NPGL and HDC increased. Social isolation for 3 h induced an increase in the mRNA expression of NPGL, NPGM, and HDC. These results indicate that NPGM, but not NPGL or HDC, may participate in several physiological responses to stress in chicks.
Generation of Transfer-DNA-Free Base-Edited Citrus Plants
Authors: Alquézar Berta , Bennici Stefania , Carmona Lourdes , Gentile Alessandra , Peña Leandro
Published: March 2022

To recover transgenic citrus plants in the most efficient manner, the use of selection marker genes is essential. In this work, it was shown that the mutated forms of the acetolactate synthase (ALS) gene in combination with the herbicide selection agent imazapyr (IMZ) added to the selection medium may be used to achieve this goal. This approach enables the development of cisgenic regenerants, namely, plants without the incorporation of those bacterial genes currently employed for transgenic selection, and additionally it allows the generation of edited, non-transgenic plants with altered endogenous ALS genes leading to IMZ resistance. In this work, the citrus mutants, in which ALS has been converted into IMZ-resistant forms using a base editor system, were recovered after cocultivation of the explants with Agrobacterium tumefaciens carrying a cytidine deaminase fused to nSpCas9 in the T-DNA and selecting regenerants in the culture medium supplemented with IMZ. Analysis of transgene-free plants indicated that the transient expression of the T-DNA genes was sufficient to induce ALS mutations and thus generate IMZ-resistant shoots at 11.7% frequency. To our knowledge, this is the first report of T-DNA-free edited citrus plants. Although further optimization is required to increase edition efficiency, this methodology will allow generating new citrus varieties with improved organoleptic/agronomic features without the need to use foreign genes.
The Antecedents and Consequences of Workaholism: Findings From the Modern Japanese Labor Market
Authors: Akutsu Satoshi , Katsumura Fumiaki , Yamamoto Shohei
Published: March 2022

The present study examined the direct and indirect (via workaholism) relationships between competitive work environments and subjective unhealthiness. It also examined the effects of adjusting for cognitive distortions in the relationship between a competitive work environment and subjective unhealthiness and between a competitive work environment and workaholism. Data were collected from 9,716 workers in various industries, occupations, and positions. The results show that competitive work environments were positively related to subjective unhealthiness, both directly and through workaholism. Furthermore, cognitive distortions moderated the positive effect between a competitive work environment and workaholism, and the positive relationship was stronger when cognitive distortions were high (as compared to low). This study has important and practical implications for companies that are increasingly concerned about the health of their employees.
Lipid Profiles of College Female Student-Athletes Participating at Different Competition Levels of Organized Sport
Authors: Vento Kaila A. , Delgado Ferdinand , Lynch Heidi
Published: March 2022

College-aged women are not meeting weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity to support lipids protecting against cardiovascular disease onset. Participating in organized sport could assist in physical activity engagement and maintenance while positively impacting lipids predicting cardiovascular disease. However, women may be discouraged from participating in sports if they perceive benefits to be mostly seen at the higher competition levels, thus hindering seeking sports involvement at lesser-intensity levels. A total of N = 78 female athletes participating at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (n = 21), National Junior College Athletic Association (n = 29), and student club (n = 28) completed a personal characteristics questionnaire and provided blood samples to compare physical activity involvement and lipid health profiles. Linear regression modeling was used to assess how the independent variables (i.e., sport level, age, systolic blood pressure, race/ethnicity, sport/physical activity involvement hours per week, and years playing sports) on the dependent variables [i.e., total cholesterol, high density lipid (HDL), and total cholesterol-HDL ratio]. Total sample cholesterol 165.7 ± 34.0, HDL 62.8 ± 15.03, and total cholesterol-HDL ratio 2.8 ± 0.6 were all within a healthy recommendation range, along with per sport level. NJCAA sport level significantly predicted lower total cholesterol, p = 0.043, while identifying as Black significantly predicted higher total cholesterol, p = 0.008. Similarly, identifying as Black significantly predicted higher HDL, p = 0.021. Furthermore, increased systolic blood pressure significantly predicted higher total cholesterol-HDL ratios, p = 0.014. Organized sports participation may help meet physical activity requirements, support healthy lipid profiles, and ward off cardiovascular disease development in female college students regardless of competition level.
Isolation and Genetic Characterization of Emerging H3N2 Canine Influenza Virus in Guangdong Province, Southern China, 2018–2021
Authors: Ou Jiajun , Zheng Feiyan , Cheng Jiaojiao , Ye Shaotang S. , Ye Cundong , Jia Kun , Lu Gang , Li Shoujun
Published: March 2022

H3N2 canine influenza virus (CIV) emerged in dogs in China or Korea around 2005 and was first reported in 2008. In 2015, H3N2 CIV was detected in the United States and caused a huge outbreak. To date, H3N2 CIV is continuously circulating in dog populations in China, Korea, and the United States. For continuous monitoring of H3N2 CIV in China, we collected 180 dog nasal swab samples and 196 cat nasal swabs from veterinary hospitals in Guangdong Province between 2018 and 2021. Six emerging H3N2 CIV strains were isolated. Following full genome sequencing and phylogenetic analyses, we found that A/canine/Guangdong/1-3/2018 and A/canine/Guangdong/1-3/2021 diverged from the reported sequences of the Chinese H3N2 CIV strains. Moreover, we found that these H3N2 CIV strains belong to the group that contains US and northern China CIV strains in 2017 and 2019 and dominate in the dog population until 2021.
A Serosurvey for Ruminant Pestivirus Exposure Conducted Using Sera From Stray Mexico Origin Cattle Captured Crossing Into Southern Texas
Authors: Falkenberg Shollie M. , Bauermann Fernando V. , Scoles Glen A. , Bonilla Denise , Dassanayake Rohana P.
Published: March 2022

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program (CFTEP) monitor a quarantine zone along the Texas border to prevent the introduction of stray livestock carrying cattle fever ticks entering the United States from Mexico. Stray cattle collected by CFTEP are checked for ticks and several infectious disease-causing pathogens, but not for bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). BVDV is one of the most economically impactful viruses affecting US cattle producers. BVDV is present in all parts of the world, but it has been demonstrated that another distantly related pestivirus, HoBi-like pestivirus (HoBiPev), can also cause BVD. To date, HoBiPev has not been detected in the United States, but is commonly found in Brazil, and sporadically in Europe and Asia. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of pestiviruses, with a specific focus on HoBiPev, in stray cattle. Virus neutralization (VN) assay was used to determine seroprevalence (or antibody titers) of BVDV-1, BVDV-2, and HoBiPev. Approximately 50% (67 of 134) of the samples were seropositive for pestiviruses; all 67 positive samples were positive (50%) for BVDV-1, 66 samples of the 67 were positive (49.3%) for BVDV-2, and the same 66 samples of the 67 were also positive (49.3%) for HoBiPev. Due to the antigenic cross-reactivity among Pestiviruses, the comparative antibody against each pestivirus was calculated from all VN-positive samples. Titers were clearly higher against BVDV-1, and only one sample had a titer clearly higher against BVDV-2. No sample had an antibody titer higher for HoBiPev, and while this does not prove the absence of HoBiPev, it does provide evidence that the prevalence of HoBiPev is less predominant than BVDV-1. Additionally, data from these samples provide evidence on the susceptibility of animals that may enter into the United States, with ~50% of the animals seronegative for bovine pestiviruses. This cattle population provides a unique opportunity to evaluate and monitor changes in seroprevalence of economically important cattle diseases affecting the cattle industry.
No-Tillage Does Not Always Stop the Soil Degradation in Relation to Aggregation and Soil Carbon Storage in Mediterranean Olive Orchards
Authors: González-Rosado Manuel , Parras-Alcántara Luis , Aguilera-Huertas Jesús , Lozano-García Beatriz
Published: March 2022

Intensive tillage (CT) application in Mediterranean olive orchards has threatened soil quality and led to soil degradation. No tillage with bare soil (NT+H) has been considered as an alternative practice to this management system; however, there are discrepancies in the literature on the results of the application of this practice. Our main objective was to assess the impact of continuous tillage and zero tillage on soil aggregate stability, SOC and SON stocks. The study was conducted in a Mediterranean rainfed olive grove under semi-arid conditions in a Calcaric Cambisol, for 16 years evaluating complete soil profiles (0–120 cm depth). In the long-term, the management practices CT1 and NT+H significantly affected aggregate particle size by reducing the percentage of macro-aggregates (>250 μm) and promoting a higher number of micro-aggregates (<250 μm). Nevertheless, NT+H affected the Bw and BC horizons with the increase in the large macroaggregates (>2000 μm) percentage. In relation to these results, the soil structural stability indices showed a significant decrease in both Mean Weight Diameter (MWD) and Geometric Mean Diameter (GMD) values with losses of more than 50% with respect to the initial period (CT0) in the first two horizons. In the long term, both in CT1 and in NT+H, higher SOC concentrations were found in deep horizons showing a C redistribution in depth and important losses in TN values—while, in CT0, macroaggregates contained the highest CPC values, after the long-term both management practices (CT1 and NT+H) affected the C dynamics and were characterised by higher C pool in the microaggregates than in the macroaggregate fractions. Therefore, long-term NT+H and CT1 showed an SOC storage deterioration and increased susceptibility to decomposition, CO2 emissions and fertility losses. This trend i.e., decreases in SOC stocks following NT, confirms previous studies on the subject and points to nutrient balance impacts.
Wild Plants Used by Tibetans in Burang Town, Characterized by Alpine Desert Meadow, in Southwestern Tibet, China
Authors: Ding Xiaoyong , Guo Changan , Zhang Xiong , Li Jing , Jiao Yixue , Feng Haowen , Wang Yuhua
Published: March 2022

This study documented the wild plants used by Tibetans and the related traditional knowledge in Burang Town (Karnali River Valley). Ethnobotanical surveys, including semi-structured interviews and participatory observations, were conducted in five Tibetan communities in July 2020 and August 2021. The informant consensus factor (ICF) and cultural importance index (CI) were used for data analyses. In total, 76 wild species belonging to 58 genera and 30 families were determined to be used. These included 26 edible, 29 medicinal, 34 fodder, 21 fuel, 17 incense, three economic, three dye, two ritual, two handicraft, and one species for tobacco plants species; many of these have multiple uses. The top five important plants are Carum carvi (CI = 1.88), Hippophae tibetana (CI = 1.45), Rheum moorcroftianum (CI = 0.87), Urtica dioica (CI = 1.45) and Chenopodium album (CI = 0.75). Of the wild plant species used, 53 were recorded in croplands and 25 were found in alpine pastures. This pattern of use is influenced by local livelihood patterns and culture. Plants in highland cropland have diverse ethnobotanical values that are often overlooked. These findings will inform strategies and plans for local communities and governments to sustainably use and protect plants at high altitudes.
Nutrient Contents and Productivity of Triticum aestivum Plants Grown in Clay Loam Soil Depending on Humic Substances and Varieties and Their Interactions
Authors: Awad Ahmed A. M. , El-Taib Ashraf B. A. , Sweed Atef A. A. , Omran Aya A. M.
Published: March 2022

Due to an extreme increase in population growth, Egypt suffers from a widening gap in the quantity of imported wheat compared with production and local consumption. Two field trials were conducted during the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons with three levels of humic substances (HSs) as a foliar spray (1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 g L−1; HS1, HS2 and HS3) and three levels (5.04, 7.56 and 10.08 kg ha−1; HS4, HS5 and HS6) as a soil application. These were applied three times (30, 45 and 60 days after sowing) in comparison with the control (HS0) to evaluate the performance of three wheat varieties (Seds1 (V1), Misr2 (V2) and Giza168 (V3)) grown in clay loam soil. The experiment was set up according to the split-plot structure in a randomized complete block design; however, the varieties were set as the main plot and treatments were a sub-main plot. Generally, the data indicated that the soil application treatments recorded maximum values for most growth and yield attributes, except for spike length and grain weight per spike, SPAD reading and total grain yield in the first season, and leaf area and biological yield in the second season. HS1, HS2, HS5, and HS6 were the superior treatments for most of the nutrient contents studied. Regarding the influence of variety, the results showed that V3 recorded maximum values for LA, SpL, TGW, TGY and leaf Zn and Cu contents in both seasons; PH, GWS and leaf N content in the first season; and SPAD reading, BY and leaf K, Fe and Mn contents in the second season. V1 was the superior variety for GWS, BY, leaf K and Mn contents in the 2018/2019 season and PH, GNS in the second season, followed by V2, which had the greatest values for leaf P contents in both seasons, and SPAD reading, GNS and leaf Fe content in the 2018/2019 season and GWS and leaf N content in the second season.