bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the Actual Evapotranspiration of Different Vegetation Types Based on Root Distribution Functions
Authors: Dong Zhiqiang , Hu Hongchang , Wei Zhongwang , Liu Yaping , Xu Hanlin , Yan Hong , Chen Lajiao , Li Haoqian , Khan Mohd Yawar Ali
Published: May 2022

Background and Aims: Evapotranspiration is an important part of the water cycle and energy cycle. However, even under the same climatic condition, there are spatial differences in actual evapotranspiration (ETa) due to different land use and land cover. To characterize the influence of different vegetation types on ETa in China, this study parameterized the vertical distribution of the root systems of different vegetation types.

Methods: A one-dimensional soil-plant-atmosphere continuum (SPAC) model was constructed, and these root distribution functions were used to improve the root water absorption modulus of the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum model. Based on the improved model, the actual evaporation actual transpiration and ETa under different vegetation types were calculated, and the reasons for different ETa of different vegetation types were analyzed.

Results: The results show that the root distribution of all vegetation types increases first and then decreases as the depth increases, and almost all the maximum values are in the range of 0–20 cm. The savanna has the shallowest root system, while the barren has the deepest root system. The average ETa calculated in China was about 342.2 mm/y in 2015. The average ETa of the broadleaf evergreen forests is the largest, about 773 mm/y and the barren is the smallest, about 151 mm/y. The average annual precipitation is the most important factor affecting the ETa differences of different vegetation types.

Conclusion: The results provide solutions for estimating the ETa of different vegetation types and are significant to water resources management and soil and water conservation.
Distribution of Strongest Aftershock Magnitudes in Mining-Induced Seismicity
Authors: Motorin Alexander , Baranov Sergey
Published: May 2022

The paper considers the distribution of magnitudes of the strongest aftershocks–depending on the time after the main shock–that occur during the extraction of minerals in tectonically loaded rock massifs. The study is based on the data of long-term seismological observations at the apatite-nepheline deposits of the Khibiny Massif located in the Kola Peninsula. The article demonstrates that the distribution of the difference between the magnitudes of the strongest aftershock and the main shock is described by the dynamic Båth law, previously obtained by the authors during the study of the regularities of aftershock processes of tectonic earthquakes.
Undergraduate Surveys Reveal That Instructors Are Key in Students Overcoming Classroom Struggles During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cannon Randi L. , Clance Lauren R. , Correia Kelly M. , Morrison Blair H. , Nelson Madison T. , Henning Jeremiah A.
Published: May 2022

Many undergraduate students encounter struggle as they navigate academic, financial, and social contexts of higher education. The transition to emergency online instruction during the Spring of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these struggles. To assess college students’ struggles during the transition to online learning in undergraduate biology courses, we surveyed a diverse collection of students (n = 238) at an R2 research institution in the Southeastern United States. Students were asked if they encountered struggles and whether they were able to overcome them. Based on how students responded, they were asked to elaborate on (1) how they persevered without struggle, (2) how they were able to overcome their struggles, or (3) what barriers they encountered that did not allow them to overcome their struggles. Each open-ended response was thematically coded to address salient patterns in students’ ability to either persevere or overcome their struggle. We found that during the transition to remote learning, 67% of students experienced struggle. The most reported struggles included: shifts in class format, effective study habits, time management, and increased external commitments. Approximately, 83% of those struggling students were able to overcome their struggle, most often citing their instructor’s support and resources offered during the transition as reasons for their success. Students also cited changes in study habits, and increased confidence or belief that they could excel within the course as ways in which they overcame their struggles. Overall, we found no link between struggles in the classroom and any demographic variables we measured, which included race/ethnicity, gender expression, first-generation college students, transfer student status, and commuter student status. Our results highlight the critical role that instructors play in supporting student learning during these uncertain times by promoting student self-efficacy and positive-growth mindset, providing students with the resources they need to succeed, and creating a supportive and transparent learning environment.
Quantitative Ubiquitinomics Revealed Abnormal Ubiquitinated ATP7A Involved in Down-Regulation of ACTH in Silent Corticotroph Adenomas
Authors: Zhao Sida , He Yue , Wang Hongyun , Li Dan , Gong Lei , Zhang Yazhuo , Li Chuzhong
Published: May 2022

Ubiquitination is reported to be a critical biological event on ACTH secretion in corticotroph adenomas. However, the effect of ubiquitylation on ACTH secretion in silent corticotroph adenomas (SCAs) remains unclear. The aim of our study was to explore the mechanism of decreased secretion of ACTH in SCAs with ubiquitinomics. The differently expressed ubiquitinated proteins between SCAs and functioning corticotroph adenomas (FCAs) were identified by 4D label-free mass spectrometer, followed by bioinformatics analysis. The function of the candidate ubiquitinated protein ATP7A (K333) was validated in AtT20 cells. A total of 111 ubiquitinated sites corresponding to 94 ubiquitinated proteins were typically different between SCAs and FCAs. Among all the ubiquitinated sites, 102 showed decreased ubiquitination in SCAs, which mapped to 85 ubiquitinated proteins. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that ubiquitinated proteins were mainly enriched in vesicle pathway and protein secretion pathway. ATP7A (K333) was one of the proteins enriched in vesicle pathway and protein secretion pathway with decreased ubiquitination level in SCAs. In vitro assay indicated that both ATP7A siRNA and omeprazole (ATP7A protein inhibitor) increased the secretion of ACTH in AtT20 cell supernatant compared to control groups (p<0.05). These results indicated that ATP7A might be related to the abnormal expression of ACTH in SCAs and potential for the treatment of SCAs.
Parameters Identification of Battery Model Using a Novel Differential Evolution Algorithm Variant
Authors: Zhou Junfeng , Zhang Yubo , Guo Yuanjun , Feng Wei , Menhas Muhammad Ilyas , Zhang Yanhui
Published: May 2022

In order to deal with the fluctuation and intermittency of photovoltaic (PV) cells, the battery energy storage system (BESS) as a supplementary power source has been widely concerned. In BESS, the unknown parameters of the battery can affect its output, and its structure determines these parameters. Therefore, it is essential to establish the battery model and extract the parameters accurately, and the existing methods cannot effectively solve this problem. This study proposes an adaptive differential evolution algorithm with the dynamic opposite learning strategy (DOLADE) to deal with the issue. In DOLADE, the number of elite particles and particles with poor performance is expanded, the population’s search area is increased, and the population’s exploration capability is improved. The particles’ search area is dynamically changed to ensure the population has a good exploitation capability. The dynamic opposite learning (DOL) strategy increases the population’s diversity and improves the probability of obtaining the global optimum with a considerable convergence rate. The various discharging experiments are performed, the battery model parameters are identified, and the results are compared with the existing well-established algorithms. The comprehensive results indicate that DOLADE has excellent performance and could deal with similar problems.
Energy Conservation Behaviour Among the Malaysian Youth: A Study Under the Premises of Value-Belief-Norm Model
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , Hayat Naeem , Masud Muhammad Mehedi , Yang Qing , Salameh Anas A. , Salleh Mohd Fairuz Md.
Published: May 2022

Intensive energy consumption has become a norm among the younger generation. Energy consumption can be reduced when consumers develop environmental values, beliefs, and norms to build pro-environmental behaviours. The current study’s objective is to expose the intention and behaviour to minimise energy consumption among young Malaysian residents using the value-belief-norm (VBN) framework. Data collection was performed using social media in a cross-sectional manner. The collected data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and necessary condition analysis (NCA). Data analysis confirmed the application of VBN framework on the energy conservation behaviours among Malaysian youth. Personal biospheric and altruistic values significantly saturated the new environmental paradigm that harnessed the awareness of consequences and ascription of responsibility to engage in pro-environmental behaviours. The personal norms significantly influenced the energy conservation intention, leading to energy conservation behaviours. The NCA results suggest that the ascription of responsibility, biospheric and altruistic values are the most significant necessary conditions for promoting energy conservation behaviours. The policy and practical implications have proposed that the collaborative efforts are required to address the issue of wasteful energy consumption at a personal level, promote energy-efficient household devices, and increase monetary nudges to reward energy conservation behaviours. The study limitations and future research openings are also discussed in this paper.
A New Method for Microplastics Identification in Copepods
Authors: Thery Jérémy , Bialais Capucine , Kazour Maria , Moreau Myriam , Dufour Dylan , Benali Samira , Amara Rachid , Monchy Sébastien , Raquez Jean-Marie , Souissi Sami
Published: May 2022

This study investigates several methods to identify microplastics (MPs) of small size ranges (<10 µm) in the copepod Eurytemora affinis collected in the Seine estuary (France) and identified using epifluorescence microscopy and Raman microspectroscopy. In order to calibrate the methodology, copepods obtained from cultures were used. Firstly, we labelled three types of MPs (i.e., Polystyrene, Polyethylene, and Polylactic acid) with Nile Red and confirmed their ingestion by E. affinis with epifluorescence microscopy. Considering the convenient detection of Nile Red labelled MPs using epifluorescence observation, we tried to pair this method with Raman microspectroscopy. For this, we developed an enzymatic digestion method consisting of copepods digestion using Proteinase K followed by sonication in order to fragment their cuticle. The lysate was then vacuum filtered on black polycarbonate membrane filters that were the most appropriate for epifluorescence microscopy. Potential MPs were dyed with Nile Red directly on the filter, which allowed a relatively rapid visual detection. However, results showed that black polycarbonate membrane filters induced a significant background fluorescence during Raman identification of MPs and hence particles smaller than 10 µm could not be characterized. In this case, we were not able to link staining method with micro-Raman for the size range of MPs targeted in this study. Thus, aluminum oxide filters were tested, and staining method was replaced by a classical observation with stereomicroscopic magnifier to delimit areas of observation for Raman microscopic identification. Aluminum oxide filters induced less fluorescence, allowing the detection of MPs (as small as 1 µm diameter) on copepods from laboratory cultures exposed with MPs. We applied this method on copepods collected in the natural environment. Within a pool of 20 copepods of three replicates, we identified 17 MPs (average of 0.28 MPs/copepod) composed of eight different polymer types and six colors. These MPs corresponded to 59% of fibres with 14.1 ± 9.4 µm diameter and 391.6 ± 600.4 µm length along with 41% of fragments with an average diameter of 13.2 µm ± 9.5 µm. This study reports a novel approach to detect the presence of small particles of MPs ingested by copepods in the natural environment.
Toxicological Effects of Malathion at Low Dose on Wister Male Rats With Respect to Biochemical and Histopathological Alterations
Authors: Massoud Ahmed , SaadAllah Moustafa , Dahran Naief A. , Nasr Nasr Elsayed , El-Fkharany Ismael , Ahmed Mohamed S. , Alsharif Khalaf F. , Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb , Derbalah Aly
Published: May 2022

The toxicity of organophosphorus insecticides is considered a major global health problem, and the target of the toxic action of these compounds in humans and pests is the same. Malathion is the most commonly used organophosphate, and its danger lies in prolonged exposure to low doses. Based on a review of the literature, little is known about the toxicological and clinicopathological effects of low doses of malathion on animal enzyme activity, such as acetylcholinesterase (AChE), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT), glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Furthermore, the histopathological changes in the organs being studied (liver, kidney, brain, and lung) in treated rats were described. Three groups of experimental animals were created (each with eight rats): two experimental groups and one control group. The first group of rats received a dose of 5 mg/kg malathion orally for 24 h, the second received a dose of 5 mg/kg malathion for 21 days, and the third served as a control. Surprisingly, ALP, GPT, GOT, and GST enzymatic activities increased significantly in both malathion-treated groups (24 h or 21 days), while those of AChE significantly decreased. The histopathological changes were minimal and almost negligible in rats treated with malathion for 24 h. However, multiple histopathological changes were reported in rats treated with malathion for 21 days, including focal hepatocellular necrosis, chronic pyelonephritis, cerebral malaria, interstitial pneumonia, and testicular degeneration. Interestingly, there was a direct correlation between the alterations in biochemical parameters and histopathological lesions with the prolonged time of low malathion dose administration in rats. The study highlights the importance of research involving malathion’s chronic toxicity by non-lethal low concentrations of malathion to which most people and animals are exposed, whether as residues in water, air, or food.
Spatiotemporal Variations in the Air Freezing and Thawing Index Over the Mongolian Plateau From 1901 to 2019
Authors: Ma Xin , Wu Tonghua , Zhu Xiaofan , Lou Peiqing , Wang Dong , Adiya Saruulzaya , Avirmed Dashtseren , Dorjgotov Battogtokh , Chen Jie , Shang Chengpeng , Wen Amin , La Yune , Wei Xianhua , Li Ren
Published: May 2022

The Mongolian Plateau is located in the permafrost transitional zone between high-altitudinal and high-latitudinal permafrost regions in the Northern Hemisphere. Current knowledge of the thermal state and changes in the permafrost on the Mongolian Plateau is limited. This study adopted an improved calculation method of the Mongolian Plateau air freezing and thawing index using the monthly air temperature reanalysis dataset from the Climate Research Unit (CRU). The spatial and temporal variation characteristics from 1901 to 2019 were further assessed by the Mann–Kendall (M–K) test and spatial interpolation methods. The results indicate that the spatial distributions of the freezing and thawing index show clear latitudinal zonality. Over the study period, the air freezing index decreased by 4.1°C·d/yr, and the air thawing index increased by 2.3°C·d/yr. The change point in the air thawing index appeared in 1995 (p < 0.05) based on the M–K method, in contrast to the so-called hiatus in global warming. Our results reveal rapid warming on the Mongolian Plateau, especially in the permafrost region, and are useful for studying permafrost changes on the Mongolian Plateau.
Hydrodynamic Process of Partial and en Masse Dam Failure Induced Debris Flows
Authors: Shu Anping , Wang Le , Zhu Fuyang , Zhu Jiapin , Pi Chengling , Zhang Ziru , Christian Huarez
Published: May 2022

Because of landslides, seismic events, and/or unregulated human activities, a massive amount of loose solid materials are sometimes deposited at the confluence between the branch valley and stem stream, or blocked at the lateral channel contraction section in a river channel. Immersion of these granular materials in naturally-generated reservoirs tend to cause mass failure and even induce debris flow. However, the majority of previous studies primarily focused on post-event processes (i.e. flow hydraulics such as flood flow hydrographs, sediment transport or erosion, and river morphological changes) following dam failure. In this study, our attention is restricted to hydro-sediment dynamic processes that control unconsolidated dam failure as well as subsequent debris flow. This objective is achieved by conducting a series of experiments in a tilting flume and selecting the overtopping flows, vertical grading configurations, dam heights, and channel gradients as causative factors responsible for chain disaster in the form of dam failure and debris flow. We found that all experimental dams are either subject to partial failure through a gradual breach development or suddenly collapsed in en masse failure mode, debris flows induced by partial dam failures are likely to take place in the conditions of low overtopping flow and shallow channel slope. On the contrary, debris flows originated from en masse dam failures are shown to develop well in the opposite conditions. Also, the critical shear stresses for sediment entrainment under en masse dam failure cases are generally higher if compared with partial dam-failure equivalents. Moreover, the relative proportion of clear water to erodible solid materials is also related to dam failure mode, which will eventually determine debris-flow properties. These findings have strong implications for predicting and mitigating natural disasters of these kinds usually encountered in nature.
Identification and Analysis of Industrial Land in China Based on the Point of Interest Data and Random Forest Model
Authors: He Qingsong , Tang Xinyu
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to provide a new concept and technical method for the large-scale identification of industrial land and analyze the distribution characteristics of industrial land in China. The following research methods are employed using the point of interest data and random forest model based on data accessibility, this study selected 2015 data on Wuhan and Luoyang as training samples to identify the industrial land of China. Then, the proportion of industrial land in all 334 prefecture-level cities on the Chinese mainland was calculated, and the spatial pattern was analyzed. The results show that: 1) by comparing multiple experiments and robustness analysis, the optimal parameter setting of the random forest model is obtained. According to the test of actual industrial land distribution in Wuhan city and Luoyang city, the identification of industrial land in different scale cities by random forest model is accurate and effective. 2) From the perspective of spatial patterns, industrial land shows a “large aggregation and small scattering” distribution. 3) From the perspective of spatial distribution, the proportion of industrial land in these cities shows spatial aggregation. High–high aggregation areas were mainly distributed in North and Northeast China, and low–low aggregation areas were mainly located in West China. 4) From the perspective of related factors, industrial land was close to rivers, highways, and railway stations and had a relatively low correlation with the distribution of airports. Industrial land was located within approximately 10–60 km distance from the municipal government office. In terms of the proportion of industrial land, the proportion of industrial land is higher in the cities where the industrial land was closer to railway stations. However, when the industrial land in cities was closer to four other types of related factors (waters and lakes, major highways, airports, and municipal government stations), the share of industrial land is lower. In conclusion, the method based on the point of interest data and random forest model can accurately and effectively identify large-scale industrial land.
Copiotrophic Bacterial Traits Increase With Burn Severity One Year After a Wildfire
Authors: Adkins Jaron , Docherty Kathryn M. , Miesel Jessica R.
Published: May 2022

Wildfire and burn severity influence soil microbial communities during post-fire recovery. If post-fire differences in microbial communities affect soil carbon (C) pool dynamics, altered microbial communities could influence the transition of forests from C sources to C sinks during ecosystem recovery. For example, fire may change the abundance of copiotrophic and oligotrophic bacteria, influencing the kinetic rates of soil C pools due to differences in C-acquisition strategies and nutrient requirements. We assessed differences in soil bacterial communities and soil C pool kinetics 1 year after a wildfire in a mixed-conifer forest in northern California, United States. We determined whether differences in bacterial communities and soil C pools were related to copiotrophic versus oligotrophic life history strategies. Specifically, we assessed bacterial community oligotrophy versus copiotrophy based on phyla relative abundances and predicted 16S gene copy numbers. We then determined whether these life-histories were correlated with C pool kinetic rates. We further determined whether C degradation metabolic pathways predicted using PICRUSt2 were related to C pool kinetics. We found that copiotrophic bacteria exhibited greater abundance in burned areas than unburned areas, evidenced by increases in 16S rRNA gene copy number and by taxonomic classifications. Furthermore, the abundance of predicted metabolic pathways associated with fast-cycling C compounds increased with severity, including carbohydrate, alcohol, and amine degradation pathways, suggesting increased copiotrophic metabolic strategies. In contrast, the abundance of metabolic pathways of slow-cycling aromatic C compounds did not change, indicating oligotrophic metabolic strategies did not increase. The kinetic rate of the active C pool was positively related to the copiotrophic metabolic pathway of alcohol degradation, and negatively related to oligotrophic pathways like aromatic compound degradation. The links between C pool kinetics and phylum-level life-strategy classifications were ambiguous. Overall, our results suggest that metabolic life-strategies are related to soil C pool kinetics and could have short- and long-term impacts on soil C persistence during post-fire recovery. In the short-term, increased copiotrophy could increase soil C effluxviarapid cycling of labile C pools. However, over the longer-term lower prevalence of oligotrophic strategies could allow aromatic compounds associated with pyrogenic C to accumulate, increasing stable soil C stocks.
Systemic Analysis on the Features of Immune Microenvironment Related to Prognostic Signature in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Su Kaixin , Zhou Zekun , Yi Qiao , Liu Junjie , Luo Tiao , Cui Xinyan , Zhang Haixia
Published: May 2022

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma’s tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays an important role in tumorigenesis and progression, but its clinical significance remains unclear. Therefore, the TIME needs to be better understood in order to improve the response of diagnosis and therapy.

Methods: The gene expression and clinical data of 569 HNSCC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Immune-related genes (IRGs) from the ImmPort database were used for immunotyping of HNSCC patients, and independent GEO datasets were used for subtype verification and comprehensive molecular identification.

Results: The patients were divided into three subtypes (C1, C2, and C3) related to different gene expression profiles. The three subtypes showed widely different patterns in tumor genetic distortion, immune cell composition, cytokine profile, and so on, verifying that the immune-enhanced C2 subtype was associated with better prognosis. In addition, the stroma-deficient C1 subtype may be more efficient for the immune response than the C3 subtype. Furthermore, using WGCNA on the IRGs of those three subtypes, we found two C2-positive gene modules closely related to infection- and immune-associated pathways in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway database, and the two modules had 22 common pathways.

Conclusion: This study improves the power for prognosis prediction and develops new therapeutic strategies to stratify HNSCC patients into clinically significant groups through TIME-related prognostic signature.
Prognostic Value of SPOCD1 in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Study Based on Bioinformatics and Validation
Authors: Lin Zhizhong , Chen Lin , Wu Tingting , Zhang Yiping , Huang Xinyi , Chen Yuanmei , Chen Junqiang , Xu Yuanji
Published: May 2022

In the study, we aimed to explore and analyze the potential function of SPOC Domain Containing 1 (SPOCD1) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We performed a comprehensive analysis of gene expression of SPOCD1 and its corresponding clinicopathological features in ESCC. In particular, the correlation between SPOCD1 and ESCC was evaluated using a wide range of analysis tools and databases, including TCGA, GTEx, GenePattern, CellMiner, GDSC, and STRING datasets. Different bioinformatics analyses, including differential expression analysis, mutation analysis, drug sensitivity analysis, function analysis, pathway analysis, co-expression network analysis, immune cell infiltration analysis, and survival analysis, were carried out to comprehensively explore the potential molecular mechanisms and functional effects of SPOCD1 on the initiation and progression of ESCC. The expression of SPOCD1 was upregulated in ESCC tissues compared to those in normal tissues. In the high SPOCD1 expression group, we found apparent mutations in TP53, TTN, and MUC16 genes, which were 92, 36, and 18%, respectively. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of SPOCD1 and its co-expressed genes demonstrated that it may serve as an ESCC oncogene by regulating the genes expression in the essential functions and pathways of tumorigenesis, such as glycosaminoglycan binding, Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and Ras signaling pathway. Besides, the immune cell infiltration results revealed that SPOCD1 expression was positively correlated with Macrophages M0 and Mast cells activated cells, and negatively correlated with plasma cells and T cells follicular helper cell infiltration. Finally, ESCC patients with high expression of SPOCD1 indicated poor overall survival. qRT-PCR demonstrated that the SPOCD1 expression in ESCC tissues was significantly higher than adjacent tissues (p < 0.001). Our study indicated that SPOCD1 was increased in ESCC tissues. The current data support the oncogenic role of SPOCD1 in the occurrence and development of ESCC. Most importantly, SPOCD1 might be an independent prognostic factor for ESCC patients.
De Novo Large Deletion Leading to Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Jiraanont Poonnada , Manor Esther , Tabatadze Nazi , Zafarullah Marwa , Mendoza Guadalupe , Melikishvili Gia , Tassone Flora
Published: May 2022

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most frequent cause of X-linked inherited intellectual disabilities (ID) and the most frequent monogenic form of autism spectrum disorders. It is caused by an expansion of a CGG trinucleotide repeat located in the 5′UTR of the FMR1 gene, resulting in the absence of the fragile X mental retardation protein, FMRP. Other mechanisms such as deletions or point mutations of the FMR1 gene have been described and account for approximately 1% of individuals with FXS. Here, we report a 7-year-old boy with FXS with a de novo deletion of approximately 1.1 Mb encompassing several genes, including the FMR1 and the ASFMR1 genes, and several miRNAs, whose lack of function could result in the observed proband phenotypes. In addition, we also demonstrate that FMR4 completely overlaps with ASFMR1, and there are no sequencing differences between both transcripts (i.e., ASFMR1/FMR4 throughout the article).
QTL Mapping of Adult Plant Resistance to Stripe Rust in a Doubled Haploid Wheat Population
Authors: Tehseen Muhammad Massub , Tonk Fatma Aykut , Tosun Muzaffer , Randhawa Harpinder Singh , Kurtulus Ezgi , Ozseven Izzet , Akin Behyan , Nur Zulfuagaoglu Ozge , Nazari Kumarse
Published: May 2022

Stripe rust caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend. f. sp. tritici. is a major bread wheat disease worldwide with yield losses of up to 100% under severe disease pressure. The deployment of resistant cultivars with adult plant resistance to the disease provides a long-term solution to stripe rust of wheat. An advanced line from the International Winter Wheat Improvement Program (IWWIP) 130675 (Avd/Vee#1//1-27-6275/Cf 1770/3/MV171-C-17466) showed a high level of adult plant resistance to stripe rust in the field. To identify the adult plant resistance genes in this elite line, a mapping population of 190 doubled haploid (DH) lines was developed from a cross between line 130675 and the universal stripe rust-susceptible variety Avocet S. The DH population was evaluated at precision wheat stripe rust phenotyping platform, in Izmir during 2019, 2020, and 2021 cropping seasons under artificial inoculations. Composite interval mapping (CIM) identified two stable QTLs QYr.rcrrc-3B.1, and QYr.rcrrc-3B.2, which were detected in multiple years. In addition to these two QTLs, five more QTLs, QYr.rcrrc-1B, QYr.rcrrc-2A, QYr.rcrrc-3A, QYr.rcrrc-5A, and QYr.rcrrc-7D, were identified, which were specific to the cropping year (environment). All QTLs were derived from the resistant parent, except QYr.rcrrc-3A. The significant QTLs explained 3.4–20.6% of the phenotypic variance. SNP markers flanking the QTL regions can be amenable to marker-assisted selection. The best DH lines with high yield, end-use quality, and stripe rust resistance can be used for further selection for improved germplasm. SNP markers flanking the QTL regions can aid in identifying such lines.
Evaluation of an ImmunoPET Tracer for IL-12 in a Preclinical Model of Inflammatory Immune Responses
Authors: Viola Nerissa T. , Glassbrook James E. , Kalluri Jhansi R. , Hackett Justin B. , Wicker Madison N. , Sternberg Joshua , Gibson Heather M.
Published: May 2022

The immune cytokine interleukin-12 (IL-12) is involved in cancer initiation and progression, autoimmunity, as well as graft versus host disease. The ability to monitor IL-12 via imaging may provide insight into various immune processes, including levels of antitumor immunity, inflammation, and infection due to its functions in immune signaling. Here, we report the development and preclinical evaluation of an antibody-based IL-12-specific positron emission tomography (PET) tracer. To mimic localized infection and stimulate IL-12 production, BALB/c mice were administered lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intramuscularly. [89Zr]Zr-DFO-αIL12 tracer was given one hour post LPS administration and PET images were taken after 5, 24, 48, and 72 hours. We observed significantly higher uptake in LPS-treated mice as compared to controls. Biodistribution of the tracer was evaluated in a separate cohort of mice, where tracer uptake was elevated in muscle, spleen, lymph nodes, and intestines after LPS administration. To evaluate the utility of [89Zr]Zr-DFO-αIL12 as an indicator of antigen presenting cell activation after cancer immunotherapy, we compared PET imaging with and without intratumoral delivery of oncolytic adenovirus expressing granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (Adv/GM-CSF), which we have shown promotes anti-tumor immunity. BALB/c mice were inoculated orthotopically with the mouse mammary carcinoma line TUBO. Once TUBO tumors reached a volume of ~50 mm3, mice were treated with either three intratumoral injections of 108 PFU Adv/GM-CSF or vehicle control, given every other day. Upon the last dose, [89Zr]Zr-DFO-αIL12 was injected intravenously and 72 hours later all mice were imaged via PET. Tumor-specific uptake of [89Zr]Zr-DFO-αIL12 was higher in Adv/GM-CSF treated mice versus controls. Tissues were harvested after imaging, and elevated levels of macrophages and CD8+ Tc cells were detected in Adv/GM-CSF treated tumors by immunohistochemistry. We validated that IL-12 expression was induced after Adv/GM-CSF by qRT-PCR. Importantly, expression of genes activated by IL-12 (IFNγ, TNFα, and IL-18) were unaffected after IL-12 imaging relative to mice receiving an IgG control tracer, suggesting the tracer antibody does not significantly disrupt signaling. Our results indicate that targeting soluble cytokines such as IL-12 by PET imaging with antibody tracers may serve as a noninvasive method to evaluate the function of the immune milieu in situ.
One Shoot, Two Birds: Alleviating Inflammation Caused by Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury to Reduce the Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Hao , Lu Di , Yang Xinyu , Hu Zhihang , He Chiyu , Li Huigang , Lin Zuyuan , Yang Modan , Xu Xiao
Published: May 2022

Inflammation is crucial to tumorigenesis and the development of metastasis. Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is an unresolved problem in liver resection and transplantation which often establishes and remodels the inflammatory microenvironment in liver. More and more experimental and clinical evidence unmasks the role of hepatic IRI and associated inflammation in promoting the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Meanwhile, approaches aimed at alleviating hepatic IRI, such as machine perfusion, regulating the gut-liver axis, and targeting key inflammatory components, have been proved to prevent HCC recurrence. This review article highlights the underlying mechanisms and promising therapeutic strategies to reduce tumor recurrence through alleviating inflammation induced by hepatic IRI.
The Regulatory Role of MicroRNAs on Phagocytes: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Chronic Diseases
Authors: Wang Yongbo , Liu Xingyu , Xia Panpan , Li Zhangwang , FuChen Xinxi , Shen Yunfeng , Yu Peng , Zhang Jing
Published: May 2022

An effective acute inflammatory response results in the elimination of infectious microorganisms, followed by a smooth transition to resolution and repair. During the inflammatory response, neutrophils play a crucial role in antimicrobial defense as the first cells to reach the site of infection damage. However, if the neutrophils that have performed the bactericidal effect are not removed in time, the inflammatory response will not be able to subside. Anti-inflammatory macrophages are the main scavengers of neutrophils and can promote inflammation towards resolution. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have great potential as clinical targeted therapy and have attracted much attention in recent years. This paper summarizes the involvement of miRNAs in the process of chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus by regulating lipid metabolism, cytokine secretion, inflammatory factor synthesis and tissue repair in two types of cells. This will provide a certain reference for miRNA-targeted treatment of chronic diseases.
Coastal Flood Modeling to Explore Adaptive Coastal Management Scenarios and Land-Use Changes Under Sea Level Rise
Authors: Louisor Jessie , Brivois Olivier , Mouillon Paloma , Maspataud Aurelie , Belz Patrice , Laloue Jean-Michel
Published: May 2022

In a Climate Change (CC) context, low-lying areas like marshes are more vulnerable to Sea Level Rise (SLR) or extreme climate events leading to coastal flooding. The main objective of this study is to help local stakeholders determine the best coastal management strategy for the Moëze marsh (France) that can contribute to adapt to SLR in this zone. To do so, we used the MARS hydrodynamic model to simulate coastal overflowing in the zone for different scenarios. We first calibrated the model based on data from the Xynthia storm which occurred on February 28th 2010. Our focus is on modeling the high astronomical tide-induced flooding, taking into account regional SLR projections by 2030 and 2050 under the pessimistic RCP 8.5 CC scenario. Several Coastal management configurations proposed by local decision-makers, as well as different land-use projections were considered. The results highlight that the implementation of closed defenses around human and economic stakes do not lead to significant reductions in flooding (surface extent and maximum water height) compared to the case where the sea-dikes are no longer maintained and the coastline is unconstrained. This can be explained by the fact that these stake zones were historically built on higher points of the marsh. We have also shown that land-use changes have an influence on flooding in the Moëze marsh, especially an increase greater than 0.25 m in the maximum simulated height when considering a new land-use by 2030. The increase is less pronounced (under 0.25 m) when considering a new land-use by 2050. These results do not take into account the possible future evolution of the topography due, for example, to the presence of new habitats that would trap the sediments.
Revisit the Sedimentary Stratigraphic Evolution and Environmental Changes on the Outer Shelf of the East China Sea Since MIS 5
Authors: Wang Zhongbo , Yang Shouye , Tang Haiyan , Zheng Yilin , Wang Hongyue , Zhang Zhixun , Zhang Yong , Mei Xi , Wang Qiang , Lai Zhongping
Published: May 2022

The East China Sea (ECS) is featured by the broad continental shelf, huge terrigenous sediment input and striking river-sea interaction during the Quaternary. Despite the numerous studies, mostly on the delta, coastal and inner shelf areas, the late Quaternary stratigraphy and sedimentary environment on the mid-outer ECS shelf were poorly documented. In particular, it is still controversial in issues such as the recognition of marine transgression deposits in the interglacial period and the occurrence and ages of deposits in the glacial period. This study presents new data of high-resolution seismic reflection profiles and collective evidences from lithology, microfossil assemblages and geochronology of borehole SFK-1 on the ECS outer shelf, aiming to revisit the sedimentary stratigraphic evolution and environmental changes since the Marine Isotopic Stage 5 (MIS 5). Sixty-one ages were obtained by radiocarbon and Optical Stimulation Luminescence (OSL), providing robust constraints on the chronostratigraphy. Three marine regression/transgression cycles were identified, which primarily constrained the sedimentary environmental evolution over the past 100 kyrs. Although the strong river-sea interaction accompanied with sea level fluctuations characterized the late Quaternary depositional environment on the shelf, this study clearly identified the stratigraphic boundaries between MIS 1 and MIS 5, and confirmed the tide-influenced fluvial deposition formed during the Last Glacial Maximum on the outer shelf. We infer that tidal forcing significantly superimposed its influence on sea level change and thus formed the most striking feature on the late Quaternary stratigraphy of the open ECS shelf. With the combination of a large number of absolute depositional ages with high-resolution core records, the major findings of this study may allow better understanding of the Quaternary sedimentary evolution and river-sea interaction on open shelves dominated by siliciclastic sedimentation.
Density of Compatible Ligands on the Surface of Food Particles Modulates Sorting Efficiency in the Blue Mussel Mytilus edulis
Authors: Pales Espinosa Emmanuelle , Eckstein Margot , Allam Bassem
Published: May 2022

The adhesion between food particles and mucus is a fundamental process in particle sorting in suspension-feeding bivalves that requires specific recognition. Interactions between carbohydrate-binding proteins (lectins) expressed on the feeding organs and carbohydrates present on microbial cell surface can provide this specificity. Microalga cell surface carbohydrates (MCSC) represent unique patterns that can be considered as species-specific fingerprints. In this study, sorting efficiencies in blue mussels Mytilus edulis fed with microalgae having modified MCSC and engineered microspheres coated with target carbohydrates was measured. The nature and quantities of surface carbohydrates required to trigger sorting in mussels was evaluated and the relationship between ligand quantities and sorting efficiency (SE) was determined. Mussels fed with Chlamydomonas which MCSC were blocked with ConA or PEA lectins (affinity to mannose and glucose) led to a significant decrease of the sorting efficiencies, not observed when the lectin UEA (affinity to fucose) was used. The ability of commercial lectins to inhibit sorting was not linear and a threshold was noted between 30 and 45 ug lectins per million algae cells. Further, mussels were fed with microspheres coated with neoglycoproteins. Results showed that glucose-BSA, but not fucose-BSA, has an effect on particle sorting in mussels, and 1.08 x 109 molecules of glucose per microspheres, corresponding to a density of 6.99 x 106 molecules of glucose per µm2, triggers particle selection. These findings support that selection of food particles by mussels rely on the strength of the bond between suspended particle and the mucosal layer that mediate sorting, and that these bonds depend on the quantity of compatible ligands on each particle.
Case Report: Anesthetic Management of Cesarean Section in a Patient With Paraplegia
Authors: Su Yongchun , Lei Xiaofeng , Yu Jin
Published: May 2022

Background

With the advancement of medical science and rehabilitative care, more women with spinal cord injury (SCI) can conceive. However, autonomic hyperreflexia due to SCI complicates anesthesia management during cesarean sections.

Case Presentation

This study reports the anesthesia management in a woman with paraplegia with a T6 SCI lesion who underwent a cesarean section. It also reviews the anesthesia strategies used in other studies. Spinal anesthesia with a low concentration of ropivacaine was administered along with dexmedetomidine for sedation. Stable hemodynamics were achieved without complications.

Conclusions

Based on the reported case and literature review, we conclude that the intrathecal block is the preferred choice for women with paraplegia who require cesarean section if the lumbar bone structure allows puncture attempts.
Evaluation of the Effects on Uninfected Pregnant Women and Their Pregnancy Outcomes During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Beijing, China
Authors: Hao Chongyi , Jin Feng , Hao Chanjuan , Zhang Xiaofen , Xie Limin , Zhang Yawei , Liu Xuanshi , Ni Xin , Li Wei
Published: May 2022

Background

People's lifestyles may have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have a profound impact on pregnant women and newborns. This study aims to assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on uninfected pregnant women and their newborns, including potential environmental factors.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the pregnancy complications of 802 cases in the pandemic group and 802 controls in the pre-pandemic group in a matched nested case-control study, and evaluated the association with sociodemographic features, lifestyles, and other factors in 311 pregnant women with adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Compared to the pre-pandemic group, the rates of anemia, vaginitis, shoulder dystocia, and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth were increased in the pandemic group. After controlling for the covariates, we observed a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in the pandemic group. Pregnant women with adverse pregnancy outcomes had an increased rate of anemia and vaginal candidiasis.

Conclusion

COVID-19 pandemic has profound effects on adverse pregnancy outcomes, suggesting the importance of ensuring regular prenatal checkups and keeping a healthy lifestyle.
Dickkopf 3—A New Indicator for the Deterioration of Allograft Function After Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Schuster Antonia , Steines Louisa , Müller Karolina , Zeman Florian , Findeisen Peter , Banas Bernhard , Bergler Tobias
Published: May 2022

Evidence of tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis is prognostically unfavorable and associated with a premature graft loss after kidney transplantation. Recently, Dickkopf 3 (DKK3), a profibrotic glycoprotein released by stressed tubular epithelial cells, has been identified to cause IF/TA by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and seems to engage a T-cell response. The aim of our study was to determine if a correlation between DKK3 and graft function exists and if DKK3 could be a new indicator to identify patients at risk for a deterioration in graft function. Patients, transplanted between 2016 and 2018, were analyzed with regard to DKK3 in the urine and graft function (creatinine, eGFR, albuminuria). Multivariable analyzes were used including known factors influencing graft function (PRA, donor age) to stress robustness of DKK3. The 3 and 12 month DKK3 values were significant predictors for subsequent graft function up to 36 months. An increase of DKK3 from month 3 to 12 of ≥ 25% showed a higher risk of an impaired graft function, with, e.g., a reduction in eGFR of about 9–10 ml/min in contrast to patients without intensified DKK3 increase. Induction therapy has an influence on DKK3 as patients induced with a T-cell depleting therapy showed a trend toward lower DKK3 values. In summary, our study is the first investigation of DKK3 in kidney transplant recipients and was able to show that DKK3 could forecast graft function. It is recommended to investigate the potential of DKK3 as a predictor of kidney function after transplantation in further studies.
Cost-Utility Analysis of Chuna Manual Therapy and Usual Care for Chronic Neck Pain: A Multicenter Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ha In-Hyuk , Kim Eun-San , Lee Sook-Hyun , Lee Yoon Jae , Song Hyun Jin , Kim Younhee , Kim Koh-Woon , Cho Jae-Heung , Lee Jun-Hwan , Shin Byung-Cheul , Lee Jinho , Shin Joon-Shik
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to compare the cost-effectiveness of manual therapy and usual care for patients with chronic neck pain. A cost-utility analysis alongside a pragmatic randomized controlled trial was conducted in five South Korean hospitals. Data were procured from surveys and nationally representative data. Participants were 108 patients aged between 19 and 60 years, with chronic neck pain persisting for at least 3 months and a pain intensity score of ≥5 on the numerical rating scale in the last 3 days. The study was conducted for 1 year, including 5 weeks of intervention and additional observational periods. Participants were divided into a manual therapy (Chuna) group and a usual care group, and quality-adjusted life-years, costs, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio were calculated. The quality-adjusted life-years of the manual therapy group were 0.024 higher than that of the usual care group. From the societal perspective, manual therapy incurred a lower cost—at $2,131—and was, therefore, the more cost-effective intervention. From a healthcare system perspective, the cost of manual therapy was higher, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio amount of $11,217. Manual therapy is more cost-effective for non-specific chronic neck pain management from both a healthcare system and societal perspective.