bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of NLRP3 reduces oxidative stress and polarizes intratumor macrophages to attenuate immune attack on endometrial cancer
Authors: Zhu Xiaolu , Xu Yanli , Wang Juan , Xue Zhuowei , Qiu Tian , Chen Jing
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The interaction between endometrial cancer (EMC) cells and intratumoral macrophages plays a significant role in the development of the disease. PYD domains-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome formation triggers caspase-1/IL-1β signaling pathways and produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) in macrophages. However, the role of NLRP3-regulated ROS production in macrophage polarization and the subsequent growth and metastasis of EMC remains unknown.

Methods

We conducted bioinformatic analysis to compare NLRP3 levels in intratumoral macrophages from EMC and normal endometrium. In vitro experiments involved knocking out NLRP3 in macrophages to shift the polarization from an anti-inflammatory M1-like phenotype to a proinflammatory M2-like phenotype and reduce ROS production. The impact of NLRP3 depletion on the growth, invasion, and metastasis of co-cultured EMC cells was assessed. We also evaluated the effect of NLRP3 depletion in macrophages on the growth and metastasis of implanted EMC cells in mice.

Results

Our bioinformatic analysis showed significantly lower NLRP3 levels in intratumoral macrophages from EMC than those from normal endometrium. Knocking out NLRP3 in macrophages shifted their polarization to a proinflammatory M2-like phenotype and significantly reduced ROS production. NLRP3 depletion in M2-polarized macrophages increased the growth, invasion, and metastasis of co-cultured EMC cells. NLRP3 depletion in M1-polarized macrophages reduced phagocytic potential, which resulted in weakened immune defense against EMC. Additionally, NLRP3 depletion in macrophages significantly increased the growth and metastasis of implanted EMC cells in mice, likely due to compromised phagocytosis by macrophages and a reduction in cytotoxic CD8+ T cells.

Discussion

Our results suggest that NLRP3 plays a significant role in regulating macrophage polarization, oxidative stress, and immune response against EMC. NLRP3 depletion alters the polarization of intratumoral macrophages, leading to weakened immune defense against EMC cells. The reduction in ROS production by the loss of NLRP3 may have implications for the development of novel treatment strategies for EMC.
Factors associated with low-uptake of ivermectin in Mahenge, an area with high prevalence of onchocerciasis and epilepsy in Tanzania: A qualitative perspective
Authors: Bhwana Dan , Massawe Isolide S. , Mushi Adiel K. , Magili Pendo , Amaral Luís-Jorge , Makunde Williams , Mmbando Bruno P. , Colebunders Robert
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Despite over 20 years of community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) in Mahenge area in Tanzania, the prevalence of onchocerciasis has remained high (over 40% in children 6-10 years using antibody testing and 49% using skinsnips in adults). The area has one of the highest prevalence of epilepsy, exceeding 3.5% in some of rural villages.

Methods

Between June and July 2019, in four rural villages using qualitative methods, we assessed factors potentially associated with the persistence of high Onchocerca volvulus transmission.

Results

Eleven focus group discussions were organized with persons with epilepsy and their caretakers, community resource persons, and community drug distributors (CDDs), and two in-depth interviews with district programme coordinators of neglected tropical diseases (NTD). Factors considered being responsible for the persistence of onchocerciasis transmission included not taking ivermectin during CDTI for fear of adverse reactions such as itching, swelling and misconception that the drug causes infertility. Challenges for high CDTI coverage included, long walking distance by CDDs to deliver drugs to households, persons being away for farming, low awareness of the disease including the association between onchocerciasis and epilepsy and limited supervision by the NTD coordinators.

Conclusion

Ivermectin uptake in Mahenge should be optimised by continuous advocacy about the importance of taking ivermectin to prevent onchocerciasisassociated morbidity and by improving supervision during CDTI.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 accessory proteins ORF3a and ORF7a modulate autophagic flux and Ca2+ homeostasis in yeast
Authors: Garrido-Huarte José Luis , Fita-Torró Josep , Viana Rosa , Pascual-Ahuir Amparo , Proft Markus
Published: April 2023

Virus infection involves the manipulation of key host cell functions by specialized virulence proteins. The Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) small accessory proteins ORF3a and ORF7a have been implicated in favoring virus replication and spreading by inhibiting the autophagic flux within the host cell. Here, we apply yeast models to gain insights into the physiological functions of both SARS-CoV-2 small open reading frames (ORFs). ORF3a and ORF7a can be stably overexpressed in yeast cells, producing a decrease in cellular fitness. Both proteins show a distinguishable intracellular localization. ORF3a localizes to the vacuolar membrane, whereas ORF7a targets the endoplasmic reticulum. Overexpression of ORF3a and ORF7a leads to the accumulation of Atg8 specific autophagosomes. However, the underlying mechanism is different for each viral protein as assessed by the quantification of the autophagic degradation of Atg8-GFP fusion proteins, which is inhibited by ORF3a and stimulated by ORF7a. Overexpression of both SARS-CoV-2 ORFs decreases cellular fitness upon starvation conditions, where autophagic processes become essential. These data confirm previous findings on SARS-CoV-2 ORF3a and ORF7a manipulating autophagic flux in mammalian cell models and are in agreement with a model where both small ORFs have synergistic functions in stimulating intracellular autophagosome accumulation, ORF3a by inhibiting autophagosome processing at the vacuole and ORF7a by promoting autophagosome formation at the ER. ORF3a has an additional function in Ca2+ homeostasis. The overexpression of ORF3a confers calcineurin-dependent Ca2+ tolerance and activates a Ca2+ sensitive FKS2-luciferase reporter, suggesting a possible ORF3a-mediated Ca2+ efflux from the vacuole. Taken together, we show that viral accessory proteins can be functionally investigated in yeast cells and that SARS-CoV-2 ORF3a and ORF7a proteins interfere with autophagosome formation and processing as well as with Ca2+ homeostasis from distinct cellular targets.
A comparative pilot study on Gram-negative bacteria contaminating the hands of children living in urban and rural areas of Indonesia versus Germany – A suitable monitoring strategy for diarrhea risk assessment?
Authors: Simanjuntak Debi Frina , Kusumawati R. Lia , Bader Oliver , Lüder Carsten G. K. , Zimmermann Ortrud , Groß Uwe
Published: April 2023

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of death mainly effecting young children. Often it is the result of fecal-oral pathogen transmission. We aimed to investigate whether monitoring the prevalence of Gram-negative bacteria on the hands of asymptomatic children is suitable as an indicator of fecal contamination of the environment in their playground. We compared the prevalence of Gram-negative bacteria on the hands of children, who live in the German city of Göttingen, an urban area in a high-income country, with the situation in Medan as an urban area and Siberut as a rural area both in the middle-income country Indonesia. A total of 511 children at the age of 3 months to 14 years were asked to put their thumb print on MacConkey agar, which was used to screen for the presence of Gram-negative bacteria. These were subsequently identified by using MALD-TOF mass spectrometry and classified into the order Enterobacterales, Pseudomonadales, and others. The highest burden of hand contamination was found in children from rural Siberut (66.7%) followed by children from urban Medan (53.9%), and from urban Göttingen (40.6%). In all three study sites, hand contamination was lower in the youngest (<1 year) and oldest age groups (10–14 years) and highest in the age group 5–9 years. Bacteria of the order Enterobacterales possibly indicating fecal contamination were most prevalent in Siberut (85.1%) followed by Medan (62.9%) and Göttingen (21.5%). Most facultative and obligate gastrointestinal pathogens such as Escherichia coli (n = 2) and Providencia rettgeri (n = 7), both being members of the order Enterobacterales, as well as Aeromonas caviae (n = 5), and Vibrio cholerae (n = 1) both belonging to other orders were nearly exclusively identified on the hands of children in Siberut. This result was not surprising, because hygienic conditions were lowest in Siberut. Only one isolate of A. caviae was found in Medan, and no facultative gastrointestinal pathogen was identified on the hands of children from Göttingen. Our pilot study therefore indicates that investigating hands of children for the prevalence of Gram-negative bacteria using selective media are a helpful method to monitor hygienic conditions, and thereby assess the risk for diarrhea-causing bacterial pathogens in the environment.
Two decades of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling
Authors: Lia Annamaria , Di Spiezio Alessandro , Speggiorin Michele , Zonta Micaela
Published: April 2023

The brain is a highly energy demanding organ, which accounts in humans for the 20% of total energy consumption at resting state although comprising only 2% of the body mass. The necessary delivery of nutrients to brain parenchyma is ensured by the cerebral circulatory system, through the exchange of glucose and oxygen (O2) at the capillary level. Notably, a tight spatial and temporal correlation exists between local increases in neuronal activity and the subsequent changes in regional cerebral blood flow. The recognized concept of neurovascular coupling (NVC), also named functional hyperemia, expresses this close relationship and stands at the basis of the modern functional brain imaging techniques. Different cellular and molecular mechanisms have been proposed to mediate this tight coupling. In this context, astrocytes are ideally positioned to act as relay elements that sense neuronal activity through their perisynaptic processes and release vasodilator agents at their endfeet in contact with brain parenchymal vessels. Two decades after the astrocyte involvement in neurovascular coupling has been proposed, we here review the experimental evidence that contributed to unraveling the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cerebral blood flow regulation. While traveling through the different controversies that moved the research in this field, we keep a peculiar focus on those exploring the role of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling and conclude with two sections related to methodological aspects in neurovascular research and to some pathological conditions resulting in altered neurovascular coupling.
Kif21B mediates the effect of estradiol on the morphological plasticity of mouse hippocampal neurons
Authors: Ganchala Danny , Pinto-Benito Daniel , Baides Elisa , Ruiz-Palmero Isabel , Grassi Daniela , Arevalo Maria Angeles
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Neurons are polarized cells, and their ability to change their morphology has a functional implication in the development and plasticity of the nervous system in order to establish new connections. Extracellular factors strongly influence neuronal shape and connectivity. For instance, the developmental actions of estradiol on hippocampal neurons are well characterized, and we have demonstrated in previous studies that Ngn3 mediates these actions. On the other hand, Kif21B regulates microtubule dynamics and carries out retrograde transport of the TrkB/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) complex, essential for neuronal development.

Methods

In the present study, we assessed the involvement of kinesin Kif21B in the estradiol-dependent signaling mechanisms to regulate neuritogenesis through cultured mouse hippocampal neurons.

Results

We show that estradiol treatment increases BDNF expression, and estradiol and BDNF modify neuron morphology through TrkB signaling. Treatment with K252a, a TrkB inhibitor, decreases dendrite branching without affecting axonal length, whereas. Combined with estradiol or BDNF, it blocks their effects on axons but not dendrites. Notably, the downregulation of Kif21B abolishes the actions of estradiol and BDNF in both the axon and dendrites. In addition, Kif21B silencing also decreases Ngn3 expression, and downregulation of Ngn3 blocks the effect of BDNF on neuron morphology.

Discussion

These results suggest that Kif21B is required for the effects of estradiol and BDNF on neuronal morphology, but phosphorylation-mediated activation of TrkB is essential only for axonal growth. Our results show that the Estradiol/BDNF/TrkB/Kif21B/Ngn3 is a new and essential pathway mediating hippocampal neuron development.
The influence of curcumin additives on the viability of probiotic bacteria, antibacterial activity against pathogenic microorganisms, and quality indicators of low-fat yogurt
Authors: Buniowska-Olejnik Magdalena , Urbański Jakub , Mykhalevych Artur , Bieganowski Pawel , Znamirowska-Piotrowska Agata , Kačániová Miroslava , Banach Maciej
Published: April 2023

Curcumin is a nutraceutical with unique anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and antimicrobial properties. In this study, we aimed to examine the advantages of the use of water dispersible and highly bioavailable form of standardized turmeric extract (Curcuma longa L.)—NOMICU® L-100 (N) in the formulation of probiotic yogurt in comparison with the standard turmeric extract (TE). The antimicrobial activity of both supplements was studied and compared in the context of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. The N maintains the level of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-2 in yogurt at the recommended level (7–9 log CFU/g) throughout the storage period. NOMICU® L-100 also has a higher inhibitory capacity for the growth of yeast and fungi. The evaluation of quality indicators of yogurt with N and TE at the level of 0.2% proves that yogurt with N has original taste properties. A lower degree of syneresis was noted for yogurt with TE (0.2%), but its sensory properties are unacceptable to the consumer due to the appearance of a bitter taste. In conclusion, based on the obtained results, it has been proven that the use of NOMICU® L-100 (0.2%) in the composition of yogurt provides a product of functional direction with stable quality and safety indicators, which can be stored for at least 28 days.
Axillary response and outcome in breast cancer patients after neoadjuvant treatment: The role of radiotherapy in reducing recurrence in ypN0 patients with initially cN+ stage
Authors: Ren Xiaoqiu , Yu Yaner , Liu Lihong , Xia Wenjie , Ni Runliang , Wei Shumei , Wu Jun , Wei Qichun
Published: April 2023

Objective

We aim to explore the clinicopathological features associated with axillary node response and recurrence in breast cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant treatment (NAT).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 486 stage I to III breast cancer patients who received NAT and surgery between 2016 and 2021.

Results

A total of 486 cases were reviewed and 154 (31.7%) patients achieved breast pathological complete response (pCR) (ypT0/Tis). Of the 366 cases with initially cN+, 177 (48.4%) cases reach ypN0. Breast pCR is in high accordance to axillary pCR (81.5%). Hormone receptor (HR)-/HER2+ breast cancer patients have the highest axillary pCR rate (78.3%). Patients achieve axillary pCR have a significantly better disease-free survival (DFS) (P=0.0004). Further analysis reveals that the DFS of ypN0 and ypN1 cases are similar (P=0.9049). Moreover, DFS in patients with ypN0 (P<0.0001) and ypN1 (P<0.0001) is significantly better than that in patients with ypN2-3. For post-mastectomy ypN0 cases, radiation could only improve DFS in patients with initially cN+ stage (P=0.0499). Multivariate Cox regression analysis shows that radiation is an independent factor to improve DFS (Hazard ratio (HR): 0.288(0.098-0.841), P=0.0230). Radiation does not improve DFS in pre-cN0/ypN0 patients (P=0.1696).

Conclusion

Axillary pCR rate is higher than breast pCR rate. HR-/HER2+ patients have the highest axillary pCR rate. Axillary pCR is associated with better DFS. Radiation could further improve DFS in ypN0 patients with initially positive nodal disease.
The utility of 3D models to study cholesterol in cancer: Insights and future perspectives
Authors: du Plessis Thea-Leonie , Abdulla Naaziyah , Kaur Mandeep
Published: April 2023

Cholesterol remains a vital molecule required for life; however, increasing evidence exists implicating cholesterol in cancer development and progression. Numerous studies investigating the relationship between cholesterol and cancer in 2-dimensional (2D) culture settings exist, however these models display inherent limitations highlighting the incipient need to develop better models to study disease pathogenesis. Due to the multifaceted role cholesterol plays in the cell, researchers have begun utilizing 3-dimensional (3D) culture systems, namely, spheroids and organoids to recapitulate cellular architecture and function. This review aims to describe current studies exploring the relationship between cancer and cholesterol in a variety of cancer types using 3D culture systems. We briefly discuss cholesterol dyshomeostasis in cancer and introduce 3D in-vitro culture systems. Following this, we discuss studies performed in cancerous spheroid and organoid models that focused on cholesterol, highlighting the dynamic role cholesterol plays in various cancer types. Finally, we attempt to provide potential gaps in research that should be explored in this rapidly evolving field of study.
Excellent results of screening for subsequent breast cancers in long-term survivors of childhood Hodgkin's lymphoma—Results of a population-based study
Authors: Zadravec Zaletel Lorna , Cesen Mazic Maja , Jazbec Janez , Kos Gregor , Toplak Miha , Štrbac Danijela
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Subsequent breast cancer (SBC) represents a major complication in childhood cancer survivors and screening for SBC in survivors after incidental irradiation of breasts is recommended. In this article, we report the results and discuss benefits of SBC screening in female pts treated for Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) in Slovenia in a period of 45 years.

Methods

Between 1966 and 2010, 117 females were treated for HL under the age of 19 in Slovenia. One hundred five of them survived for 5 years and were included in our study. They were 3–18 (med. 15) years old at diagnosis and followed for 6–52 (med. 28) years. Eighty-three percent of them had chest RT with a median dose of 30 Gy. Ninety-seven (92%) of 105 pts were regularly followed according to the international guidelines including yearly screening mammography/breast MRI in those who received chest RT.

Results

We diagnosed 10 SBCs in eight pts 14–39 (med. 24) years after diagnosis at the age of 28–52 (med. 42) years. At 40 years of follow-up, cumulative incidence of SBCs in females who got chest RT was 15.2%. Seven of eight patients (with 9 SBCs) got chest RT with 24–80 (med. 36) Gy at the age of 12 to 18 (median 17) years. Two patients in this group got bilateral SBC. One patient got invasive SBC after being treated with ChT containing high-dose of anthracyclines without chest RT at the age of 13. All eight invasive SBCs were invasive ductal cancers, HER2 receptors negative, all but one with positive hormonal receptors. Six invasive cancers were of stage T1N0, one T1N1mi, only one, diagnosed before era of screening, was of T2N1. None of 8 pts died of SBC.

Conclusion

After introduction of regular breast screening in our female patients, who received chest RT in childhood, all SBCs were of early stage and no patients died of SBC. Survivors of pediatric HL should be informed about the risk of late sequelae of treatment for HL, including SBC. Regular follow-up with breast cancer screening and breast self-examination is of vital importance in those treated with chest RT.
Non-coding and intergenic genetic variants of human arylamine N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene are associated with differential plasma lipid and cholesterol levels and cardiometabolic disorders
Authors: Hong Kyung U. , Walls Kennedy M. , Hein David W.
Published: April 2023

Arylamine N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) is a phase II metabolic enzyme, best known for metabolism of aromatic amines and hydrazines. Genetic variants occurring in the NAT2 coding region have been well-defined and are known to affect the enzyme activity or protein stability. Individuals can be categorized into rapid, intermediate, and slow acetylator phenotypes that significantly alter their ability to metabolize arylamines, including drugs (e.g., isoniazid) and carcinogens (e.g., 4-aminobiphenyl). However, functional studies on non-coding or intergenic variants of NAT2 are lacking. Multiple, independent genome wide association studies (GWAS) have reported that non-coding or intergenic variants of NAT2 are associated with elevated plasma lipid and cholesterol levels, as well as cardiometabolic disorders, suggesting a novel cellular role of NAT2 in lipid and cholesterol homeostasis. The current review highlights and summarizes GWAS reports that are relevant to this association. We also present a new finding that seven, non-coding, intergenic NAT2 variants (i.e., rs4921913, rs4921914, rs4921915, rs146812806, rs35246381, rs35570672, and rs1495741), which have been associated with plasma lipid and cholesterol levels, are in linkage disequilibrium with one another, and thus form a novel haplotype. The dyslipidemia risk alleles of non-coding NAT2 variants are associated with rapid NAT2 acetylator phenotype, suggesting that differential systemic NAT2 activity might be a risk factor for developing dyslipidemia. The current review also discusses the findings of recent reports that are supportive of the role of NAT2 in lipid or cholesterol synthesis and transport. In summary, we review data suggesting that human NAT2 is a novel genetic factor that influences plasma lipid and cholesterol levels and alters the risk of cardiometabolic disorders. The proposed novel role of NAT2 merits further investigations.
Factors influencing bioequivalence evaluation of insulin biosimilars based on a structural equation model
Authors: Shao Huarui , Tao Yi , Tang Chengyong
Published: April 2023

Objective: This study aimed to explore the factors affecting the bioequivalence of test and reference insulin preparations so as to provide a scientific basis for the consistency evaluation of the quality and efficacy of insulin biosimilars.

Methods: A randomized, open, two-sequence, single-dose, crossover design was used in this study. Subjects were randomly divided into TR or RT groups in equal proportion. The glucose infusion rate and blood glucose were measured by a 24-h glucose clamp test to evaluate the pharmacodynamic parameters of the preparation. The plasma insulin concentration was determined by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to evaluate pharmacokinetic parameters. WinNonlin 8.1 and SPSS 23.0 were applied for PK/PD parameter calculation and statistical analysis. The structural equation model (SEM) was constructed to analyze the influencing factors of bioequivalence by using Amos 24.0.

Results: A total of 177 healthy male subjects aged 18–45 years were analyzed. Subjects were assigned to the equivalent group (N = 55) and the non-equivalent group (N = 122) by bioequivalence results, according to the EMA guideline. Univariate analysis showed statistical differences in albumin, creatinine, Tmax, bioactive substance content, and adverse events between the two groups. In the structural equation model, adverse events (β = 0.342; p < 0.001) and bioactive substance content (β = −0.189; p = 0.007) had significant impacts on the bioequivalence of two preparations, and the bioactive substance content significantly affected adverse events (β = 0.200; p = 0.007).

Conclusion: A multivariate statistical model was used to explore the influencing factors for the bioequivalence of two preparations. According to the result of the structural equation model, we proposed that adverse events and bioactive substance content should be optimized for consistency evaluation of the quality and efficacy of insulin biosimilars. Furthermore, bioequivalence trials of insulin biosimilars should strictly obey inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the consistency of subjects and avoid confounding factors affecting the equivalence evaluation.
Variation in blubber thickness and histology metrics across the body topography of a false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens)
Authors: Phipps Jana E. , Silva-Krott Ilse , Marchetti Jamie , West Kristi L.
Published: April 2023

Blubber is a multifunctional tissue essential to the survival of cetaceans. Histological assessment of blubber may be useful in determining odontocete nutritional state but a greater understanding of specific variation across the body is needed. We report on morphological variation of the blubber according to girth axes and sampling planes in a sub-adult male, bycaught false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) using metrics of blubber thickness (BT), adipocyte area (AA), and adipocyte index (AI). 48 full depth blubber samples were taken along 6 girth axes at 5 equidistant sampling points on both sides of the body. At these sampling locations BT was recorded, and AA and AI were determined for three distinct blubber layers. Linear mixed effect models were used to assess variation of the blubber across layers and body topography. BT was somewhat non-uniform across the body but was generally thicker in the dorsal region and thinner laterally. AA was greater cranially and AI was greater caudally. The middle and inner layer blubber showed significant differences dorsoventrally with larger AA and smaller AI in the ventral region of the body. Variation of the blubber metrics across the body are indicative of variable functions of the blubber within an individual. Due to the variability observed, we expect that AI of the dynamic inner layer blubber is most informative of overall body condition and that biopsy samples of the outer and middle blubber may still be useful in determining the nutritional status of live false killer whales.
Chronic stress negatively impacts wound healing, welfare, and stress regulation in internally tagged Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Virtanen Miiro Ilmari , Brinchmann Monica Fengsrud , Patel Deepti Manjari , Iversen Martin Haugmo
Published: April 2023

The desire to understand fish welfare better has led to the development of live monitoring sensor tags embedded within individuals for long periods. Improving and understanding welfare must not come at the cost of impaired welfare due to a tag’s presence and implantation process. When welfare is compromised, the individual will experience negative emotions such as fear, pain, and distress, impacting the stress response. In this study, Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) underwent surgical implantation of a dummy tag. Additionally, half of this group was introduced to daily crowding stress. Both groups and an untagged group were followed for 8 weeks using triplicate tanks per group. Sampling took place once a week, and where stress was given, it was conducted 24 h before sampling. Stress-related measurements were taken to understand if tagging caused chronic stress and explore the chronic stress response and its impact on wound healing. Primary stress response hormones measured included CRH, dopamine, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and cortisol. Secondary stress response parameters measured included glucose, lactate, magnesium, calcium, chloride, and osmolality. Tertiary stress response parameters measured included weight, length, and five fins for fin erosion. Wound healing was calculated by taking the incision length and width, the inflammation length and width, and the inside wound length and width. The wound healing process showed that stressed fish have a larger and longer-lasting inflammation period and a slower wound healing process, as seen from the inside wound. The tagging of Atlantic salmon did not cause chronic stress. In contrast, daily stress led to an allostatic overload type two response. ACTH was elevated in the plasma after 4 weeks, and cortisol followed elevation after 6 weeks, highlighting a breakdown of the stress regulation. Fin erosion was elevated alongside cortisol increase in the stressed group. This data suggests that tagging previously unstressed fish in a controlled environment does not negatively affect welfare regarding stress responses. It also indicates that stress delays wound healing and increases the inflammatory response, highlighting how continued stress causes a breakdown in some stress responses. Ultimately, the tagging of Atlantic salmon can be successful under certain conditions where proper healing is observed, tag retention is high, and chronic stress is not present, which could allow for the possible measurement of welfare indicators via smart-tags.
Genome-wide association study in two-row spring barley landraces identifies QTL associated with plantlets root system architecture traits in well-watered and osmotic stress conditions
Authors: Khodaeiaminjan Mortaza , Knoch Dominic , Ndella Thiaw Marie Rose , Marchetti Cintia F. , Kořínková Nikola , Techer Alexie , Nguyen Thu D. , Chu Jianting , Bertholomey Valentin , Doridant Ingrid , Gantet Pascal , Graner Andreas , Neumann Kerstin , Bergougnoux Véronique
Published: April 2023

Water availability is undoubtedly one of the most important environmental factors affecting crop production. Drought causes a gradual deprivation of water in the soil from top to deep layers and can occur at diverse stages of plant development. Roots are the first organs that perceive water deficit in soil and their adaptive development contributes to drought adaptation. Domestication has contributed to a bottleneck in genetic diversity. Wild species or landraces represent a pool of genetic diversity that has not been exploited yet in breeding program. In this study, we used a collection of 230 two-row spring barley landraces to detect phenotypic variation in root system plasticity in response to drought and to identify new quantitative trait loci (QTL) involved in root system architecture under diverse growth conditions. For this purpose, young seedlings grown for 21 days in pouches under control and osmotic-stress conditions were phenotyped and genotyped using the barley 50k iSelect SNP array, and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted using three different GWAS methods (MLM GAPIT, FarmCPU, and BLINK) to detect genotype/phenotype associations. In total, 276 significant marker-trait associations (MTAs; p-value (FDR)< 0.05) were identified for root (14 and 12 traits under osmotic-stress and control conditions, respectively) and for three shoot traits under both conditions. In total, 52 QTL (multi-trait or identified by at least two different GWAS approaches) were investigated to identify genes representing promising candidates with a role in root development and adaptation to drought stress.
Comprehensive review on patulin and Alternaria toxins in fruit and derived products
Authors: Bacha Syed Asim Shah , Li Yinping , Nie Jiyun , Xu Guofeng , Han Lingxi , Farooq Saqib
Published: April 2023

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain fungi, which can contaminate various food commodities, including fruits and their derived products. Patulin and Alternaria toxins are among the most commonly encountered mycotoxins in fruit and their derived products. In this review, the sources, toxicity, and regulations related to these mycotoxins, as well as their detection and mitigation strategies are widely discussed. Patulin is a mycotoxin produced mainly by the fungal genera Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Byssochlamys. Alternaria toxins, produced by fungi in the Alternaria genus, are another common group of mycotoxins found in fruits and fruit products. The most prevalent Alternaria toxins are alternariol (AOH) and alternariol monomethyl ether (AME). These mycotoxins are of concern due to their potential negative effects on human health. Ingesting fruits contaminated with these mycotoxins can cause acute and chronic health problems. Detection of patulin and Alternaria toxins in fruit and their derived products can be challenging due to their low concentrations and the complexity of the food matrices. Common analytical methods, good agricultural practices, and contamination monitoring of these mycotoxins are important for safe consumption of fruits and derived products. And Future research will continue to explore new methods for detecting and managing these mycotoxins, with the ultimate goal of ensuring the safety and quality of fruits and derived product supply.
Sexual violence perpetrated by health professionals
Authors: Fávero Marisalva , Gomes Vanessa , Campo Amaia Del , Moreira Diana , Sousa-Gomes Valéria
Published: April 2023

Sexual violence (SV) perpetrated by health professionals concerns any sexual conduct, whether physical or verbal (with or without contact), toward a patient. There has been little scientific study and some disagreements have emerged regarding its definition, which has even been confused with violation of professional boundaries. In this descriptive-exploratory study, we aimed to characterize this phenomenon in the Portuguese context, using a sample of 491 participants who completed an online questionnaire adapted for this study. The results showed that 8.96% of the participants (5.5% indirect victims) suffered SV by a health professional, and the sociodemographic characteristics are very similar to those of SV in other contexts. Thus, after confirming this is not a problem alien to the Portuguese reality, we discuss the practical implications for prevention and intervention with victims.
Hungry for compliments? Ghrelin is not associated with neural responses to social rewards or their pleasantness
Authors: Sailer Uta , Riva Federica , Lieberz Jana , Campbell-Meiklejohn Daniel , Scheele Dirk , Pfabigan Daniela M.
Published: April 2023

The stomach-derived hormone ghrelin motivates food search and stimulates food consumption, with highest plasma concentrations before a meal and lowest shortly after. However, ghrelin also appears to affect the value of non-food rewards such as interaction with rat conspecifics, and monetary rewards in humans. The present pre-registered study investigated how nutritional state and ghrelin concentrations are related to the subjective and neural responses to social and non-social rewards. In a cross-over feed-and-fast design, 67 healthy volunteers (20 women) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in a hungry state and after a meal with repeated plasma ghrelin measurements. In task 1, participants received social rewards in the form of approving expert feedback, or non-social computer reward. In task 2, participants rated the pleasantness of compliments and neutral statements. Nutritional state and ghrelin concentrations did not affect the response to social reward in task 1. In contrast, ventromedial prefrontal cortical activation to non-social rewards was reduced when the meal strongly suppressed ghrelin. In task 2, fasting increased activation in the right ventral striatum during all statements, but ghrelin concentrations were neither associated with brain activation nor with experienced pleasantness. Complementary Bayesian analyses provided moderate evidence for a lack of correlation between ghrelin concentrations and behavioral and neural responses to social rewards, but moderate evidence for an association between ghrelin and non-social rewards. This suggests that ghrelin’s influence may be restricted to non-social rewards. Social rewards implemented via social recognition and affirmation may be too abstract and complex to be susceptible to ghrelin’s influence. In contrast, the non-social reward was associated with the expectation of a material object that was handed out after the experiment. This may indicate that ghrelin might be involved in anticipatory rather than consummatory phases of reward.
Status of mandatory treatment of mentally ill offenders without criminal responsibility in China: Information from 5,262 mandatory treatment judgments
Authors: Qiu Yu-Feng , Yin Xiao-Tong , Wang Zi-Ye , Yang Rui , Coid Jeremy , Chen Xia-Can , Hu Jun-Mei
Published: April 2023

Background

To avoid public health risks, all governments ensure monitoring and treatment of mentally ill persons if they offend and assess their level of criminal responsibility. The Criminal Procedure Law of the People’s Republic of China (2013) instituted special procedures. However, there are few articles in English which explain the implementation of mandatory treatment procedures in China.

Methods

We collected 5,262 qualified documents from 2013 to 2021 from the China Judgments Documents Online. We analyzed social demographic characteristics, trial-related information as well as the mandatory treatment-related content, to investigate the mandatory treatment of China’s mentally ill offenders without criminal responsibility, from 2013 to 2021. Simple descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to compare differences among several types of documents.

Results

There was an overall change trend of the number of documents: increasing year by year from 2013 to 2019 after the implementation of the new law, but with sharp decrease in 2020 and 2021 during covid-19 pandemic. From 2013 to 2021, a total of 3,854 people had applications made for mandatory treatment, of whom 3,747 (97.2%) were given mandatory treatment, 107 (2.8%) had applications rejected. “Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders” was the most common diagnosis in both groups and all offenders receiving mandatory treatment (3,747, 100.0%) were considered to have no criminal responsibility. A total of 1,294 patients had applications made for relief of mandatory treatment, of whom 827 (63.9%) were subsequently approved for relief, 467 (36.1%) were rejected. A total of 118 patients had applications for relief two or more times, and 56 (47.5%) were finally relieved.

Conclusion

Our study presents the Chinese model of a criminal mandatory treatment system to the international community which has been in operation since the implementation of the new law. Legislatory changes and covid-19 pandemic can have effect on the number of mandatory treatment cases. Patients, their close relatives and mandatory treatment institutions have the right to apply for relief from mandatory treatment, but the final decision in China is taken by the court.
Airborne HSRL-2 measurements of elevated aerosol depolarization associated with non-spherical sea salt
Authors: Ferrare Richard , Hair Johnathan , Hostetler Chris , Shingler Taylor , Burton Sharon P. , Fenn Marta , Clayton Marian , Scarino Amy Jo , Harper David , Seaman Shane , Cook Anthony , Crosbie Ewan , Winstead Edward , Ziemba Luke , Thornhill Lee , Robinson Claire , Moore Richard , Vaughan Mark , Sorooshian Armin , Schlosser Joseph S. , Liu Hongyu , Zhang Bo , Diskin Glenn , DiGangi Josh , Nowak John , Choi Yonghoon , Zuidema Paquita , Chellappan Seethala
Published: April 2023

Airborne NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) High Spectral Resolution Lidar-2 (HSRL-2) measurements acquired during the recent NASA Earth Venture Suborbital-3 (EVS-3) Aerosol Cloud Meteorology Interactions over the Western Atlantic Experiment (ACTIVATE) revealed elevated particulate linear depolarization associated with aerosols within the marine boundary layer. These observations were acquired off the east coast of the United States during both winter and summer 2020 and 2021 when the HSRL-2 was deployed on the NASA LaRC King Air aircraft. During 20 of 63 total flight days, particularly on days with cold air outbreaks, linear particulate depolarization at 532 nm exceeded 0.15–0.20 within the lowest several hundred meters of the atmosphere, indicating that these particles were non-spherical. Higher values of linear depolarization typically were measured at 355 nm and lower values were measured at 1,064 nm. Several lines of evidence suggest that these non-spherical particles were sea salt including aerosol extinction/backscatter ratio (“lidar ratio”) values of 20–25 sr measured at both 355 and 532 nm by the HSRL-2, higher values of particulate depolarization measured at low (< 60%) relative humidity, coincident airbornein situsize and composition measurements, and aerosol transport simulations. The elevated aerosol depolarization values were not correlated with wind speed but were correlated with salt mass fraction and effective radius of the aerosol when the relative humidity was below 60%. HSRL-2 measured median particulate extinction values of about 20 Mm−1 at 532 nm associated with these non-spherical sea salt particles and found that the aerosol optical depth (AOD) contributed by these particles remained small (0.03–0.04) but represented on average about 30%–40% of the total column AOD. Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) spaceborne lidar aerosol measurements during several cold air outbreaks and CALIOP retrievals of column aerosol lidar ratio using column AOD constraints suggest that CALIOP operational aerosol algorithms can misclassify these aerosols as dusty marine rather than marine aerosols. Such misclassification leads to ∼40–50% overestimates in the assumed lidar ratio and in subsequent retrievals of aerosol optical depth and aerosol extinction.
Associations between upper quarter Y-balance test performance and sport-related injuries in adolescent handball players
Authors: Bauer Julian , Panzer Stefan , Gruber Markus , Muehlbauer Thomas
Published: April 2023

Handball players are at a high risk of suffering a sport-related injury. Recent studies in various adult populations (e.g., US Army soldiers/warrior athletes, and military members) showed that poor scores in the upper quarter Y-balance test (YBT-UQ) are related to an increased risk of injury. Yet, it is unclear whether this also applies to adolescent handball players. Thus, the present study aims to determine if pre-season YBT-UQ performance is associated with sport-related injuries during the competitive season in adolescent handball players. One hundred and thirty-three adolescent handball players (age: 15.4 ± 1.7 years; m = 99, f = 42) who competed in the second highest league in the Rhine-Ruhr region, Germany, during the 2021/2022 season participated in the study. Before the competitive season, the players performed the YBT-UQ to assess upper extremity mobility and stability of the throwing and non-throwing arm. Over the 8-month competitive season, the coaches monitored the occurrence of sports-related injuries once a week, using an injury report form from the legal accident insurance. Fifty-seven players (43%) incurred a sport-related injury during the competitive season, of which 27 (47%) had upper body injuries, and 30 (53%) were lower body injuries. The YBT-UQ performance of the throwing and non-throwing arm did not significantly differ between injured and non-injured players. Further, Cox proportional hazard survival regression model analyses revealed that only the presence of an inferolateral reach asymmetry score ≥7.75% arm length was associated with a moderate increase in the risk (hazard ratio = 2.18, 95% confidence interval = 1.02–4.68, p = 0.045) of lower but not upper or whole-body injuries. Our findings suggest that the YBT-UQ has limited value as a field-based screening tool to assess the risk of sport-related injuries in adolescent handball players.
Measured and modeled nitrogen balances in lowland rice-pasture rotations in temperate South America
Authors: Castillo Jesús , Kirk Guy J. D. , Rivero M. Jordana , Fabini Guillermo , Terra José A. , Ayala Walter , Roel Alvaro , Irisarri Pilar , Haefele Stephan M.
Published: April 2023

Rotational rice systems, involving pastures, other crops and/or livestock, are common in temperate South America, exemplified by the rice-pasture-livestock system of Uruguay which combines very high rice yields with tight nitrogen (N) balances. The generally good nutrient use efficiency in these systems provides a template for nutrient management in other mixed farming systems, if the underlying processes can be sufficiently well quantified and understood. Here, we studied N balances in rice–non-rice rotations in a long-term experiment in Uruguay, with the aim of parameterizing and testing the DNDC model of N dynamics for such systems for use in future work. The experiment includes three rotations: continuous rice (RI-CONT), rice-soybean (RI-SOY) and rice-pasture (RI-PAST). We considered 9 years of data on N balances (NBAL), defined as all N inputs minus all N outputs; N surplus (NSURP), defined as all N inputs minus only N outputs in food products; and N use efficiency (NUE), defined as the fraction of N inputs removed in food products. We parameterized DNDC against measured yield and input and output data, with missing data on N losses inferred from the N balance and compared with literature values. The model performance was assessed using standard indices of mean error, agreement and efficiency. The model simulated crop yields and rice cumulative N uptake very well, and soil N reasonably well. The values of NBAL were +45 and−20 kg N ha−1 yr−1 in RI-CONT and RI-SOY, respectively, and close to zero in RI-PAST (−6 kg N ha−1 yr−1). Values of NSURP decreased in the order RI-CONT >> RI-SOY > RI-PAST (+115, +25 and +13 kg N ha−1 yr−1, respectively). Values of NUE (84, 54, and 48% for RI-SOY, RI-PAST, and RI-CONT, respectively) decreased as NBAL increased. The sensitivity of DNDC's predictions to the agronomic characteristics of the different crops, rotations and water regimes agreed with expectations. We conclude that the DNDC model as parameterized here is suitable for exploring how to optimize N management in these systems.