bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Ice‐Crystal Fabric as a Proxy for Ice‐Stream Stability
Authors: Lilien David A. , Rathmann Nicholas M. , Hvidberg Christine S. , Dahl‐Jensen Dorthe
Published: August 2021

The crystal structure within an ice sheet evolves in response to deformation; hence ice‐crystal fabric records ice‐flow history. However, the complexity of crystal‐fabric evolution, and the lack of model results with which to compare data, limit the usefulness of fabric measurements, particularly in areas with complex ice dynamics. Here, we use an ice‐flow model to identify characteristic fabrics associated with ice‐stream onset, with the goal of aiding interpretation of fabric measurements. Using time‐dependent model simulations, we identify how crystal fabric may be used to diagnose changes in an ice stream's speed or lateral position. Consistent with previous work, we find that fabric within an ice stream is generally a vertical girdle, though horizontal shear can lead to a horizontal single maximum. Transient simulations demonstrate that effects from changes in flow may be recorded in the crystal fabric for thousands of years after an ice stream activates and more than ten thousand years after an ice stream stagnates. Both transient and steady effects on fabric are sufficiently large as to be measurable in ice cores or with polarized radar, suggesting that in certain scenarios fabric could be used to identify past flow changes. These results could be used to design radar surveys in areas where ice streams are known to deactivate, such as the Siple Coast in Antarctica, or where they may migrate laterally or widen, such as in Northeast Greenland.
Making the invisible visible: New perspectives on the intersection of human–environment interactions of clinical teams in intensive care
Authors: Visram Sheena , Potts Laura , Sebire Neil J. , Rogers Yvonne , Broughton Emma , Chigaru Linda , Nambyiah Pratheeban
Published: August 2021

Understanding human behaviour is essential to the successful adoption of new technologies, and for the promotion of safer care. This requires capturing the detail of clinical workflows to inform the design of new human–technology interactions. We are interested particularly in the possibilities for touchless technologies that can decipher human speech, gesture and motion and allow for interactions that are free of contact. Here, we employ a new approach by installing a single 360° camera into a clinical environment to analyse touch patterns and human–environment interactions across a clinical team to recommend design considerations for new technologies with the potential to reduce avoidable touch.
Associations of fat and muscle mass with overall survival in men with prostate cancer: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Lopez Pedro , Newton Robert U. , Taaffe Dennis R. , Singh Favil , Buffart Laurien M. , Spry Nigel , Tang Colin , Saad Fred , Galvão Daniel A.
Published: August 2021

Background

To systematically review and analyse the associations between fat and muscle mass measures with overall survival in men with prostate cancer.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases from inception to December 2020, while abstracts from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA), and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) conferences were searched from 2014 to 2020. Eligible articles examined the association of body composition measures, such as fat mass (e.g., fat mass, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and VAT/SAT) and muscle mass measures, with overall survival in prostate cancer patients at any treatment stage. The primary endpoint was overall survival. Random-effect meta-analysis was conducted for studies reporting multivariable or univariable analysis assessing the associations of fat mass measures (i.e., fat mass, VAT, SAT, VAT/SAT) and muscle mass measures with overall survival.

Results

Sixteen cohort studies that comprised 4807 men with prostate cancer were included. Total adiposity (hazard ratio (HR) 0.98, 95% CI: 0.75–1.28, p = 0.888) and VAT (HR 1.03, 95% CI: 0.74–1.43, p = 0.873) were not significantly associated with overall survival, while higher subcutaneous adipose tissue levels were associated with higher survival (HR 0.68, 95% CI: 0.54–0.84, p = 0.001). Greater mortality risk was found in patients with localised (HR 1.91, 95% CI: 1.40–2.62, p < 0.001) and advanced disease (HR 1.43, 95% CI: 1.07–1.92, p = 0.020) presenting with low levels of muscle mass compared to those presenting with high levels.

Discussion

These results indicate that although overall adiposity should be cautiously interpreted in regards to survival, high muscle mass and SAT, and low VAT/SAT ratio values are associated with overall survival in men with prostate cancer.
Solutions in microbiome engineering: prioritizing barriers to organism establishment
Authors: Albright Michaeline B N , Louca Stilianos , Winkler Daniel E , Feeser Kelli L , Haig Sarah-Jane , Whiteson Katrine L , Emerson Joanne B , Dunbar John
Published: August 2021

Microbiome engineering is increasingly being employed as a solution to challenges in health, agriculture, and climate. Often manipulation involves inoculation of new microbes designed to improve function into a preexisting microbial community. Despite, increased efforts in microbiome engineering inoculants frequently fail to establish and/or confer long-lasting modifications on ecosystem function. We posit that one underlying cause of these shortfalls is the failure to consider barriers to organism establishment. This is a key challenge and focus of macroecology research, specifically invasion biology and restoration ecology. We adopt a framework from invasion biology that summarizes establishment barriers in three categories: (1) propagule pressure, (2) environmental filtering, and (3) biotic interactions factors. We suggest that biotic interactions is the most neglected factor in microbiome engineering research, and we recommend a number of actions to accelerate engineering solutions.
Comparative efficacy and cognitive function of magnetic seizure therapy vs. electroconvulsive therapy for major depressive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Miao , Yang Xuhui , Liu Chaojie , Li Jianying , Wang Xiao , Yang Chunxia , Hu Xiaodong , Li Jianhong , Zhao Juan , Li Xinrong , Xu Yong , Liu Sha
Published: August 2021

Magnetic seizure therapy (MST) has established efficacy in the treatment of depression and a growing evidence base in the treatment of depression. We conducted the first systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy of MST in anti-depressive treatment and its impact on cognitive function (INPLASY registration number: INPLASY202170061). We searched for controlled trials published in English between 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2020 in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases. The evaluation process strictly followed the Cochrane bias risk assessment tool into the literature, and Meta-analysis was performed according to the Cochrane System Reviewer’s Manual. Data from a total of 285 patients from 10 studies were retained in the quantitative synthesis. The results showed no significant difference between MST and ECT in the antidepressant effect (SDM −0.13 [−0.78;0.52]). Compared with ECT, MST showed shorter recovery time (MD −5.67 [−9.75; −1.60]) and reorientation time (MD −14.67 [−27.96; −1.41]); and MST showed less cognitive impairment on the immediate recall of words (SDM 0.80 [0.35;1.25]), delayed recall of words (SDM 0.99 [0.01;0.74]), visual-spatial immediate memory (SDM 0.51 [0.20;0.83]), visual-spatial delayed memory (SDM0.57 [0.11;1.02]), and the verbal fluency (SDM0.51 [0.20;0.83]). Our evidence-based study is the first meta-analysis on the efficacy of MST in anti-depressive treatment and its effect on cognitive function. It showed that the curative effect of MST in anti-depressive treatment is equivalent to that of ECT. Besides, depressive patients with MST benefit more from cognitive function compared with ECT.
Treatment-emergent and trajectory-based peripheral gene expression markers of antidepressant response
Authors: Fiori Laura M. , Orri Massimiliano , Aouabed Zahia , Théroux Jean François , Lin Rixing , Nagy Corina , Frey Benicio N. , Lam Raymond W. , MacQueen Glenda M. , Milev Roumen , Müller Daniel J. , Parikh Sagar V. , Rotzinger Susan , Uher Rudolf , Foster Jane A. , Kennedy Sidney H. , Turecki Gustavo
Published: August 2021

Identifying biomarkers of antidepressant response may advance personalized treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). We aimed to identify longitudinal changes in gene expression associated with response to antidepressants in a sample of MDD patients treated with escitalopram. Patients (N = 153) from the CAN-BIND-1 cohort were treated for 8 weeks, and depressive symptoms were assessed using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. We identified three groups of patients according to response status: early responders (22.9%), later responders (32.0%), and nonresponders (45.1%). RNA sequencing was performed in blood obtained at weeks 0, 2, and 8. RNA expression was modeled using growth models, and differences in the longitudinal changes in expression according to response were investigated using multiple regression models. The expression of RNAs related to response was investigated in the brains of depressed individuals, as well as in neuronal cells in vitro. We identified four RNAs (CERCAM, DARS-AS1, FAM228B, HBEGF) whose change over time was independently associated with a response status. For all except HBEGF, responders showed higher expression over time, compared to nonresponders. While the change in all RNAs differentiated early responders from nonresponders, changes in DARS-AS1 and HBEGF also differentiated later responders from nonresponders. Additionally, HBEGF was downregulated in the brains of depressed individuals, and increased in response to escitalopram treatment in vitro. In conclusion, using longitudinal assessments of gene expression, we provide insights into biological processes involved in the intermediate stages of escitalopram response, highlighting several genes with potential utility as biomarkers of antidepressant response.
MBD2 acts as a repressor to maintain the homeostasis of the Th1 program in type 1 diabetes by regulating the STAT1-IFN-γ axis
Authors: Yue Tiantian , Sun Fei , Wang Faxi , Yang Chunliang , Luo Jiahui , Rong Shanjie , Zhou Haifeng , Xiao Jun , Wang Xiaohui , Zhou Qing , Yang Ping , Zhang Shu , Li Wen , Xiong Fei , Yu Qilin , Wang Cong-Yi
Published: August 2021

The methyl-CpG-binding domain 2 (MBD2) interprets DNA methylome-encoded information through binding to the methylated CpG DNA, by which it regulates target gene expression at the transcriptional level. Although derailed DNA methylation has long been recognized to trigger or promote autoimmune responses in type 1 diabetes (T1D), the exact role of MBD2 in T1D pathogenesis, however, remains poorly defined. Herein, we generated an Mbd2 knockout model in the NOD background and found that Mbd2 deficiency exacerbated the development of spontaneous T1D in NOD mice. Adoptive transfer of Mbd2−/− CD4 T cells into NOD.scid mice further confirmed the observation. Mechanistically, Th1 stimulation rendered the Stat1 promoter to undergo a DNA methylation turnover featured by the changes of DNA methylation levels or patterns along with the induction of MBD2 expression, which then bound to the methylated CpG DNA within the Stat1 promoter, by which MBD2 maintains the homeostasis of Th1 program to prevent autoimmunity. As a result, ectopic MBD2 expression alleviated CD4 T cell diabetogenicity following their adoptive transfer into NOD.scid mice. Collectively, our data suggest that MBD2 could be a viable target to develop epigenetic-based therapeutics against T1D in clinical settings.
CircRNA circ-PDCD11 promotes triple-negative breast cancer progression via enhancing aerobic glycolysis
Authors: Xing Zeyu , Wang Ruojiao , Wang Xin , Liu Jiaqi , Zhang Menglu , Feng Kexin , Wang Xiang
Published: August 2021

Well-described evidence has demonstrated the critical roles of aerobic glycolysis in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) oncotherapy. Moreover, next-generation high-throughput sequencing indicates the potential regulation of energy metabolism by circular RNAs (circRNAs) in TNBC. However, circRNA modulation of TNBC aerobic glycolysis is still unclear. Here, the present research aimed to investigate the function and underlying mechanisms of novel circPDCD11 (hsa_circ_0019853) in TNBC aerobic glycolysis. The results revealed that circPDCD11 expression was significantly upregulated in TNBC tissues and cells. Clinical data demonstrated that the high expression of circPDCD11 was closely correlated with a poor prognosis and acted as an independent risk factor for TNBC prognosis. Functionally, in vitro gain- and loss-of-function experiments revealed that circPDCD11 accelerated glucose uptake, lactate production, ATP generation, and the extracellular acidification rate in TNBC cells. In vivo, circPDCD11 silencing repressed tumor growth. Mechanistically, circPDCD11 acted as a miRNA sponge to enhance LDHA expression by sponging miR-432-5p. In conclusion, these combined results demonstrated that circPDCD11 acts as an oncogene for TNBC, providing a promising prognostic biomarker for TNBC.
Biodegradable self-assembly micelles significantly enhanced the solubility, biological stability and in vivo antitumor efficacy of Hexylselen
Authors: Fang Jinzhang , Chen Zhao , Song Jun , Li Jinxiu , Han Yunying , Hou Wei , Wang Wenxi , Ruan Benfang H.
Published: August 2021

Soluplus increased the aqueous solubility of Hexylselen (CPD-3B) by about 3000-fold forming nano-sized micelles, significantly enhanced the stability in blood and liver microsomes and improved the in vivo bioavailability and antitumor efficacy.
Facile synthesis of bimetallic-based CoMoO4/MoO2/CoP oxidized/phosphide nanorod arrays electroplated with FeOOH for efficient overall seawater splitting
Authors: Yang Ping , Jin Congcong , Ren Menglei , Xing Honglong , Shi Jianjun
Published: August 2021

CoMoO4/MoO2/CoP oxidized/phosphide nanorod arrays are fabricated for high performance in hydrogen evolution reaction, while the further electrodeposition of FeOOH results in excellent catalytic activity for the oxygen evolution reaction.
Facile fabrication of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)-coated selenium nanowire/carbon nanotube composite films for flexible thermoelectric applications
Authors: Park Dabin , Kim Minsu , Kim Jooheon
Published: August 2021

A PEDOT:PSS-coated Se/MWCNT composite film was fabricated via simple solution mixing and vacuum filtration. The fabricated composite film exhibited better thermoelectric performance than pristine Se NW.
Flavonoids from Rosa davurica Pall. fruits prevent high-fat diet-induced obesity and liver injury via modulation of the gut microbiota in mice
Authors: Shen Chun-Yan , Hao Yun-Fang , Hao Zhan-Xi , Liu Qiang , Zhang Lu , Jiang Cui-Ping , Jiang Jian-Guo
Published: August 2021

Flavonoid-rich extracts from Rosa davurica Pall. fruits (RDPF) significantly prevented obesity, lipid accumulation, hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress and gut microbiota disorder in high-fat diet-fed mice. Thus, RDPF was a novel anti-obesity agent.
An effective in vivo mitochondria-targeting nanocarrier combined with a π-extended porphyrin-type photosensitizer
Authors: Satrialdi  , Takano Yuta , Hirata Eri , Ushijima Natsumi , Harashima Hideyoshi , Yamada Yuma
Published: August 2021

Novel mitochondria-targeted photodynamic therapy potentiates antitumor activity against both human and murine tumors xenografted in a mouse model.
Preparation of the Ru/HZSM-5 catalyst and its catalytic performance for the 2-pentanone hydrodeoxygenation reaction
Authors: Xi Xi , Yang Ye , An Hualiang , Zhao Xinqiang , Wang Yanji
Published: August 2021

Using model compounds to explore the reaction path and suitable conditions for the hydrodeoxygenation of bio-oil.
Electrochemically controlledin situconversion of CO2to defective carbon nanotubes for enhanced H2O2production
Authors: Yu Ao , Ma Guoming , Zhu Longtao , Hu Yajing , Zhang Ruiling , Hsu Hsien-Yi , Peng Ping , Li Fang-Fang
Published: August 2021

In situsynthesis of defective CNTs from the electrolytic reduction of CO2is presented. The defective degree of CNTs is regulated by the applied electrolysis current, and a lower current is conducive to the formation of CNTs with more defect sites.
Trans/cis-stereoisomers of triterpenoid-substituted tetraphenylethene: aggregation-induced emission, aggregate morphology, and mechano-chromism
Authors: Yu Xia , Meng Yuzhang , Zhang Hao , Guo Junbo , Wang Shixian , Li Hui , Hu Jun , Li Min-Hui
Published: August 2021

Pure trans- and cis-TPE-2GA isomers have been successfully synthesized and characterized, which not only possessed thermally stability and photoisomerization ability, but also exhibited different AIE, self-assembly, and mechano-chromic properties.
Efficient synthesis of α,β-dichlorinated ketones from α,β-dichlorinated Weinreb amides through a simple work-up procedure
Authors: Prakoso Nurcahyo Iman , Matsuda Fuyuhiko , Umezawa Taiki
Published: August 2021

An efficient synthesis of α,β-dichlorinated ketones from α,β-dichlorinated Weinreb amides is described. Quenching with nonaqueous HCl avoided side reactions. A novel reactivity of the Weinreb amide is also discussed.
A proton-exchange poly(acrylic acid) supramolecular hydrogel for ultrahigh uranium adsorption
Authors: Sun Zhongkuan , Chen Yongyi , Liu Yan , Na Bing , Meng Cheng , Zhang Shuang , Zou Shufen , Liu Hesheng
Published: August 2021

A PAA supramolecular hydrogel, via hydrogen bonding interactions, is capable of proton-exchange with uranyl ions. High-density carboxyl groups and exchangeable protons in PAA chains enable an ultrahigh uranium uptake, e.g. 1362 mg g−1 in 20 mg L−1 uranium-spiked water.
Construction of molybdenum vanadium oxide/nitride hybrid nanoplate arrays for aqueous zinc-ion batteries and reliable insights into the reaction mechanism
Authors: Zhuang Yaxuan , Xie Yulan , Fei Ban , Cai Daoping , Wang Yaguang , Chen Qidi , Zhan Hongbing
Published: August 2021

Unique CC@a-MVO/MVN HNPAs have been synthesized as an additive- and binder-free cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Moreover, the reversible formation/decomposition of two different kinds of zinc-containing byproducts is evidently discovered.
A multidimensional biosensor system to guide LUAD individualized treatment
Authors: Jiang Deming , Shi Yangfeng , Qiu Yong , Liu Xin , Zhu Yuxuan , Liu Jingwen , Pan Yuxiang , Wan Hao , Ying Kejing , Wang Ping
Published: August 2021

We report a multidimensional biosensor system to guide adenocarcinoma individualized treatment by integrating 2D and 3D PDC models and novel cellular impedance biosensors. The strategy may contribute to individualized treatment and drug development.
Hydrophilic polymer driven crystallization self-assembly: an inflammatory multi-drug combination nanosystem against Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Hu Haodong , Wang Jinna , Ren Jian , Li Xinpo , Zhang Bo , Lv Zhengang , Dai Fengying
Published: August 2021

The principles of self-assembly driven are uncovered in this study. The combination of anti-inflammatory drugs and angiotensin receptor blockers based on an inflammatory responsive nanosystem could help treat advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
Modern aspects of strategies for developing single-phase broadly tunable white light-emitting phosphors
Authors: Khan Sayed Ali , Khan Noor Zamin , Sohail Muhammad , Ahmed Jahangeer , Alhokbany Norah , Alshehri Saad M. , Xu Xin , Zhu Jinfeng , Agathopoulos Simeon
Published: August 2021

The latest developments of single-phase white-light-emitting Ba9Lu2Si6O24(BLSO) silicate phosphors are presented. The emerging approaches to crystal-site engineering and the energy transfer mechanisms are discussed at great length.
Efficient and moisture-resistant organic solar cells via simultaneously reducing the surface defects and hydrophilicity of an electron transport layer
Authors: Gao Xueman , Su Zhenhuang , Qu Shengchun , Zhang Wenzhi , Gao Yueyue , He Shenghua , Wang Zhijie , Shang Luwen , Dong Guohua , Yue Gentian , Tan Furui , Wang Zhangguo
Published: August 2021

A novel low-cost TSi/ZnO bilayer electron transport layer was developed, which could simultaneously enhance the efficiency and device stability to moisture of derived OSCs.
RETRACTED: Analysis of a building collaborative platform for Industry 4.0 based on Building Information Modelling technology
Authors: Ding Chungang , Kohli Rashi
Published: August 2021

Technology and revolutions have powered the growth of Industry 4.0, the fourth industrial uprising. Industry 4.0 inspires progress and expansion through its efficiency capacity, as given in the literature. To improve the design quality and design efficiency of construction engineering units, this study adopts Building Information Modelling technology concepts. The implementation of Building Information Modelling in construction developments includes the digital demonstration of the fleshly and efficient features of the constituents that organise a production project. The centre for International Finance Corporation Standards' research is to achieve the goal of collaborative work in the whole life cycle of buildings and the Building Information Modelling technology building collaboration platform. Current challenges and limitations of the typical Building Information Modelling architectural collaboration platform based on the Building Information Modelling application are discussed in detail with some possible suggestions. The research shows that the development of a Building Information Modelling architectural collaboration platform based on the Building Information Modelling application software is very critical. The construction collaboration platform based on Building Information Modelling technology can achieve a higher degree of data sharing and strengthen the coordination of the work of various agencies in construction engineering.
The Phase-2 Upgrade of the CMS Data Acquisition
Authors: Badaro Gilbert , Behrens Ulf , Bocci Andrea , Branson James , Brummer Philipp , Cittolin Sergio , Da Silva-Gomes Diego , Darlea Georgiana-Lavinia , Deldicque Christian , Dobson Marc , Gigi Dominique , Dzemaili Nekija , Gladki Maciej , Glege Frank , Gomez-Ceballos Guillelmo , Hegeman Jeroen , James Thomas Owen , Li Wei , Meijers Frans , Meschi Emilio , Mommsen Remigius K. , Morovic Srecko , Orsini Luciano , Papakrivopoulos Ioannis , Paus Christoph , Petrucci Andrea , Pieri Marco , Puljak Ema , Rabady Dinyar , Raychinov Kolyo , Racz Attila , Sakulin Hannes , Schwick Christoph , Simelevicius Dainius , Soursos Panagiotis , Stahl Andre , Suthakar Uthayanath , Vazquez-Velez Cristina , Zejdl Petr
Published: August 2021

The High Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) will start operating in 2027 after the third Long Shutdown (LS3), and is designed to provide an ultimate instantaneous luminosity of 7:5 × 1034cm−2s−1, at the price of extreme pileup of up to 200 interactions per crossing. The number of overlapping interactions in HL-LHC collisions, their density, and the resulting intense radiation environment, warrant an almost complete upgrade of the CMS detector. The upgraded CMS detector will be read out by approximately fifty thousand highspeed front-end optical links at an unprecedented data rate of up to 80 Tb/s, for an average expected total event size of approximately 8 − 10 MB. Following the present established design, the CMS trigger and data acquisition system will continue to feature two trigger levels, with only one synchronous hardware-based Level-1 Trigger (L1), consisting of custom electronic boards and operating on dedicated data streams, and a second level, the High Level Trigger (HLT), using software algorithms running asynchronously on standard processors and making use of the full detector data to select events for offline storage and analysis. The upgraded CMS data acquisition system will collect data fragments for Level-1 accepted events from the detector back-end modules at a rate up to 750 kHz, aggregate fragments corresponding to individual Level- 1 accepts into events, and distribute them to the HLT processors where they will be filtered further. Events accepted by the HLT will be stored permanently at a rate of up to 7.5 kHz. This paper describes the baseline design of the DAQ and HLT systems for the Phase-2 of CMS.
The role of customs in the system of social norms
Authors: Mongush Aelita Mikhailovna
Published: August 2021

The purpose of the study is to determine the essence and role of the norms of customary law (customs) through a comprehensive historical-legal and comparative-legal analysis. The methodological basis of the research was such methods of scientific knowledge as: description and comparative-legal method, which enabled to reveal certain types of social norms, their particularities and characteristic features, as well as the historical-legal method and methods of analysis and synthesis. The result of the work was the conclusion that through the prism of customary law norms, the level of development of the state, the degree of independence of society from the state, as well as the state of legal culture is seen on the largest scale. In addition, the author considers a well-reasoned and proven conclusion that it is required to study customary law and customs to modernize legal theory. The work also gives the author’s definition of the category of “custom”: a custom is the established models of human behavior in society, which have developed in the course of their multifold repetition. The novelty of the research lies in the author’s approach to examining the relationship between customs and the theory of law, as well as in the fact that the norms of customary law and the custom appear to be independent and fundamental methods of social regulation in the system of social norms.
Homöopathie und Psychotherapie bei der Behandlung von Angsterkrankungen und Depressionen
Authors: Pfanzelt Ingrid
Published: August 2021

Psychotherapie und Homöopathie können in der Behandlung von Angsterkrankungen und Depressionen gut kombiniert werden. Homöopathie kann ähnlich wirken wie eine psychopharmakologische Behandlung – beruhigend und lindernd bei akuten Beschwerden und Krisen. Die psychisch-emotionale Erlebnisfähigkeit bleibt bei homöopathischer Begleitbehandlung erhalten. Anhand von 3 Fallbeispielen wird gezeigt, bei welchen Indikationen sich die Kombinationstherapie eignet und wie ein geeignetes Setting aussehen kann.
Indian Expert Opinion on Cancer Care during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Vaid Ashok K. , Malhotra Hemant , Thirumalairaj Raja , Nair Reena , Bapna Ajay , Rajappa Senthil J. , Somashekhar S. P. , Goswami Chanchal , Bajpai Jyoti
Published: August 2021

Coronavirus pandemic has increased human disease burden, as well as economic distress globally. Being in an immunocompromised state, patients with cancer comprise an important at-risk population for novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. It is necessary to modify individualized clinical management for every cancer patient in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, additional safety precautions for the cancer care providers are mandatory. This review will provide general recommendations in the Indian context optimizing the same.
Cancer Patient Management during COVID-19 Pandemic: An Audit of a Single-Surgeon Unit in a COVID-Hotspot
Authors: Busheri Laleh , Nare Smeeta , Banale Rituja , Bapat Ashwini , Nagarkar Moushumi , Vetale Deepali , Joseph Rebecca , Suryawanshi Swapnil , Alhat Rashmi , Thomas George , Navgire Ruth , Ansari Danish , Unde Rohini , Shaikh Shahin , Gangurde Nutan , Dixit Santosh , Varghese Beenu , Deshmukh Chetan , Kelkar Devaki A. , Kulkarni Madhura , Koppiker Chaitanyanand B.
Published: August 2021

The report evaluates the effect of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on breast cancer treatment and management at a single-surgeon cancer care unit in one of the hotspots of COVID-19 in India. In response to the pandemic, the adjustments were made in the clinical practice to accommodate social distancing. Patient consultations were done over phone call or in-clinic visit with prior appointment to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Total number of patients that were treated at the clinic and the essential surgeries performed during the pandemic phases are summarized in the report. The methodology adopted here for care and management of the cancer patients can serve as a guiding principle for cancer care units in the country.
Cross-host compatibility of commercial rhizobial strains for new and existing pasture legume cultivars in south-eastern Australia
Authors: Rigg Jessica L. , Webster Ashlea T. , Harvey Deirdre M. , Orgill Susan E. , Galea Francesca , Dando Adrian G. , Collins Damian P. , Harris Carol A. , Newell Matthew T. , Badgery Warwick B. , Hayes Richard C.
Published: August 2021

Perennial legumes have potential to increase pasture productivity in the high rainfall zone (600–850 mm) of south-eastern Australia through their ability to use summer rainfall and fix nitrogen (N2). Various perennial legumes are being evaluated for this environment; however, little information exists on legume–rhizobia cross-host compatibility and its consequences for biological N2 fixation. This is especially important when legumes are sown into fields with a background of competitive rhizobia such as WSM1325 or sown as a pasture mix with different host–symbiont pairs. We studied the effectiveness and cross-host compatibility of five commercial rhizobial strains for a range of pasture legumes (nine species, 18 cultivars) under controlled environment conditions, and further evaluated nodule occupancy and competitiveness of a newly established pasture (13 species, 20 cultivars) in the field, by determining nodulation and production (biomass and N2 fixation). Three of the commercial inoculant strains formed root nodules with multiple legume species; commonly however, less N2 was fixed in cases where the inoculant was not the recommended strain for the legume species. Within a legume species, cultivars could differ in their ability to form effective root nodules with multiple rhizobial strains. White clover cvv. Trophy, Haifa and Storm, strawberry clover cv. Palestine, and Talish clover cv. Permatas formed effective nodules with both TA1 and WSM1325 rhizobial strains. White clover cultivars that could not form an effective symbiosis with the common background strain WSM1325 fixed less N2. The white clover × Caucasian clover hybrid formed effective symbiosis with strain TA1 but not with other commercial strains. Some species such as birdsfoot trefoil, Talish clover, sulfur clover and tetraploid Caucasian clover formed ineffective symbiosis in the field. Until resolved, this will likely inhibit their further development as pasture plants for similar permanent pasture environments.
Sward height determines animal performance on limpograss (
Authors: da Silveira Pontes Laíse , Petkowicz Karina , Stafin Giliardi , Kunrath Taíse Robinson
Published: August 2021

Changes in grazing intensity affect forage production and performance of animal on C4 grass pastures; however, these relationships are not well defined for cattle grazing on limpograss (Hemarthria altissima (Poir) Stapf & C.E. Hubb. cv. Flórida) under continuous stocking. The objective of this study was to quantify plant and animal production from Flórida limpograss pastures, managed at different grazing intensities by beef heifers (i.e. different sward heights) in order to define pasture management outcomes that maximise plant and animal responses. For a 3-year period, the influence exerted by the sward height (10, 20, 30 and 40 cm) was assessed. Greater total herbage accumulation and herbage accumulation rate were observed for the more lenient grazing heights (30 and 40 cm). The 20-, 30- and 40-cm heights revealed similar heifer average daily gain of 0.49 kg liveweight (LW) animal–1 day–1, reducing at the rate of 0.04 kg LW animal–1 day–1, for each cm decrease below 19 cm, according to a segmented equation. LW gain per area showed a quadratic response to the sward height, with optimum values (i.e. 2.1 kg LW ha–1 day–1) achieved at a pasture height of around 21 cm. Therefore, to optimise cattle performance on continuously stocked Flórida limpograss pastures, a sward height of ~20 cm should be maintained.
Piglets’ gut microbiota dynamics
Authors: Klein Daniela R. , Schneider Luciane I. , da Silva Júlia C. , Rossi Carlos A.R. , de Oliveira Vladimir
Published: August 2021

The gut microbiota has been a subject of great interest in recent years because the composition and diversity are associated with the maintenance of piglets’ health and welfare. This review aims to summarise the composition and diversity of piglet microbiome, the impact on health maintenance, influence of feed and nutrients, impact of stress situations, and the effect of growth promoters and antimicrobials on gut microbiota. The composition and diversity of microbiota are influenced by animal early experiences, the appropriate development of microbiota is essential for intestinal function, and influence animal health, growth and productivity. Interactions between the gut microbiota and the immune system help maintain epithelial barrier, and protect from post-weaning diarrhoea pathogenies. After weaning, the piglets’ diet changes abruptly, affecting the microbiota and the physiology, but this can be modulated through nutrients such as fibre, protein and minerals. Stress situations contribute to the appearance of intestinal disorders, possibly changing the microbiota and epithelial cell structure, facilitating colonisation of pathogenic bacteria, decreased performance and increase the use of antimicrobials. In swine production, growth promoters and antibiotics are used to reduce mortality and morbidity, especially in weaning piglets, reducing and controlling potential pathogenic bacteria, resulting in more feed intake and body weight. Antimicrobial use reduces the entire gut microbial population; the replacers are probiotics, prebiotics and organic acids, which helps maintain intestinal microbial populations, and inhibits pathogenic bacteria development. Knowing the animal microbiome dynamics helps improve immunity, productive performance and welfare, and also reduce the use of antimicrobials in animal production.
Inactivating Celsr2 promotes motor axon fasciculation and regeneration in mouse and human
Authors: Wen Quan , Weng Huandi , Liu Tao , Yu Lingtai , Zhao Tianyun , Qin Jingwen , Li Si , Wu Qingfeng , Tissir Fadel , Qu Yibo , Zhou Libing
Published: August 2021

Understanding new modulators of axon regeneration is central to neural repair. Our previous work demonstrated critical roles of atypical cadherin Celsr2 during neural development, including cilia organization, neuron migration and axon navigation. Here, we address its role in axon regeneration.

We show that Celsr2 is highly expressed in both mouse and human spinal motor neurons. Celsr2 knockout promotes axon regeneration and fasciculation in mouse cultured spinal explants. Similarly, cultured Celsr2 mutant motor neurons extend longer neurites and larger growth cones, with increased expression of end-binding protein 3 and higher potassium-induced calcium influx. Mice with Celsr2 conditional knockout in spinal motor neurons do not exhibit any behavioural deficits; however, after branchial plexus injury, axon regeneration and functional forelimb locomotor recovery are significantly improved. Similarly, knockdown of CELSR2 using shRNA interference in cultured human spinal motor explants and motor neurons increases axonal fasciculation and growth. In mouse adult spinal cord after root avulsion, in mouse embryonic spinal cords, and in cultured human motor neurons, Celsr2 downregulation is accompanied by increased levels of GTP-bound Rac1 and Cdc42, and of JNK and c-Jun.

In conclusion, Celsr2 negatively regulates motor axon regeneration and is a potential target to improve neural repair.
Clinical and Virological Features of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Variants of Concern: A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), and B.1.617.2 (Delta)
Authors: Ong Sean Wei Xiang , Chiew Calvin J , Ang Li Wei , Mak Tze Minn , Cui Lin , Toh Matthias Paul H S , Lim Yi Ding , Lee Pei Hua , Lee Tau Hong , Chia Po Ying , Maurer-Stroh Sebastian , Lin Raymond T P , Leo Yee Sin , Lee Vernon J , Lye David Chien , Young Barnaby Edward
Published: August 2021

Background

The impact of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) on disease severity is unclear. In this retrospective study, we compared the outcomes of patients infected with B.1.1.7, B.1.351, and B.1.617.2 with wild-type strains from early 2020.

Methods

National surveillance data from January to May 2021 were obtained and outcomes in relation to VOCs were explored. Detailed patient-level data from all patients with VOC infection admitted to our center between December 2020 and May 2021 were analyzed. Clinical outcomes were compared with a cohort of 846 patients admitted from January to April 2020.

Results

A total of 829 patients in Singapore in the study period were infected with these 3 VOCs. After adjusting for age and sex, B.1.617.2 was associated with higher odds of oxygen requirement, intensive care unit admission, or death (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.90; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.43-30.78). Of these patients, 157 were admitted to our center. After adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, and vaccination, the aOR for pneumonia with B.1.617.2 was 1.88 (95% CI: .95-3.76) compared with wild-type. These differences were not seen with B.1.1.7 and B.1.351. Vaccination status was associated with decreased severity. B.1.617.2 was associated with significantly lower polymerase chain reaction cycle threshold (Ct) values and longer duration of Ct value ≤30 (median duration 18 days for B.1.617.2, 13 days for wild-type).

Conclusions

B.1.617.2 was associated with increased severity of illness, and with lower Ct values and longer viral shedding. These findings provide impetus for the rapid implementation of vaccination programs.
Functional Diversity and Assembly Rules of Two Deciduous Seasonal Forests in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Ludmila Aglai , Valladares Fernando , Benavides Raquel , Flores Omar , Gonzaga Anne Priscila Dias
Published: August 2021

Deciduous seasonal forests (DSFs) have a peculiar floristic composition, with species capable of surviving periods of high water deficit in a year. Our goal was to demonstrate that abiotic filters lead to the assembly of two DSF communities that have high floristic dissimilarity. For this, we characterized the environment of the areas and used the community-weighted mean (CWM), functional richness (FRic) and functional dispersion (FDis) indices for regional recognition of functional patterns. The local assessment of assembly rules was carried out using null models. We found differences in the FRic and FDis between the areas, which was attributed to the different floristic influences exercised on the communities. However, in both, the typical attributes of dry formations were dominant (CWM), indicating that, on the regional scale of study, the dry season acts as a filter in the composition of species in the communities. On a local scale, stochastic dispersion was identified as the most influential mechanism in the assembly of communities. We conclude that deterministic and stochastic processes act in the assembly of the studied communities, and the proportion of each of these depends on the scale, with abiotic filtration predominating on a regional scale and stochastic dispersion events on a local scale.
Variations in Soil Organic Carbon Stocks under Different Land-Use Categories in Subtropical Ecosystems of Kashmir
Authors: Shaheen Hamayun , Awan Shahzad Naseer , Khan Raja Waqar Ahmed , Khalid A Rehman , Ahmed Waqas , Chughtai Fazan Masood
Published: August 2021

Quantification of soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks in different land uses holds vital significance because of its implications regarding carbon sequestration as the largest terrestrial carbon pool. The current study was conducted to quantify and compare SOC stocks in forest land, agricultural land, and barren land-use categories in the subtropical ecosystems of the Himalayan foothills in Kashmir. Results showed the highest SOC value in the forest soil (75 ± 11.1 Mg C ha−1) followed by agricultural soil (58 ± 7.0 Mg C ha−1) and barren land (44 ± 6.5 Mg C ha−1). SOC stocks in different land uses showed broad variations with values as high as 106 ± 11.3 Mg C ha−1 (forest soils) and as low as 14.1 ± 7.1 Mg C ha−1 (barren land). The forest SOC values responded significantly to species composition with the highest values in Pinus roxburghii Sarg. pure stands as compared with broad leaved forests. Multivariate ordination analyses revealed that the variations in SOC stocks were significantly correlated with vegetation type, altitude, and soil bulk density. The study has identified anthropogenic disturbances as a major factor deteriorating local SOC stocks and recommends immediate soil restoration efforts to enhance the ecological significance of soils as vital regional carbon sinks.
Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Promotes Repair of 4-Vinylcyclohexene Diepoxide-Induced Premature Ovarian Insufficiency in SD Rats
Authors: Qin Juan , Chen Junlin , Xu Haopeng , Xia Yi , Tang Wentao , Wang Wei , Li Chongyan , Tang Yilin , Wang Yan
Published: August 2021

Women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) may be more vulnerable to a variety of health risks. To seek a new method to treat the disease, the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on promoting repair of ovarian injury in female SD rats induced by 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) were explored in this research. A total of 24 female SD rats were subjected to intraperitoneal injection of VCD to induce POI. Successful modeling was achieved in 22 rats, which were then randomized into VCD + LIPUS group (n = 13) and VCD group (n = 9). The control group (n = 5) was injected with equal normal saline. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blot analysis, scanning electron microscope, immunohistochemistry, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling assay were applied to detect the results. The results indicated that rats in the VCD group showed disorder in the estrous cycle, the number of atresia follicles and apoptosis granulosa cells increased (p < .05). After the LIPUS treatment, the estrous cycle recovered, the number of follicles increased (p < .05), the level of E2 and anti-Müllerian hormone enhanced (p < .05), and the follicle-stimulating hormone decreased (p < .05). The expression of NF-κB p65, TNFα, Bax, ATF4, and caspase-3 in ovarian tissue was significantly decreased (p < .05). These findings showed that LIPUS could promote the repair of the VCD-induced ovarian damage in SD rats, which has the potential to be further applied in the clinic.
Simple Carbohydrate Intake and Higher Risk for Physical Frailty Over 15 Years in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Chuy Virginie , Gentreau Mélissa , Artero Sylvaine , Berticat Claire , Rigalleau Vincent , Pérès Karine , Helmer Catherine , Samieri Cécilia , Féart Catherine
Published: August 2021

Insulin resistance is a major mechanism involved in the onset of physical frailty (PF). Although rich carbohydrate diets may promote insulin resistance, few studies have examined their association with PF risk. This study aimed to investigate the spectrum of carbohydrate exposure, including carbohydrate intake (simple, complex, and total), glycemic load (a measure of the diet-related insulin demand), and adherence to a low-carbohydrate diet with the incident risk of PF in community-dwelling older adults. Baseline carbohydrate exposure was assessed in nonfrail participants of the Three-City Bordeaux cohort using a 24-hour dietary recall. Over 15 years of follow-up, participants were screened for PF, defined by the FRAIL scale (≥3 criteria out of Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illnesses, and weight Loss). Associations were estimated using mixed-effects logistic models adjusted for sex, age, education, smoking status, alcohol consumption, depressive symptomatology, global cognitive performances, and protein and energy intakes. The sample included 1 210 participants (62% females, mean age 76 years). Over the follow-up, 295 (24%) incident cases of PF were documented (28% in females, 18% in males). Higher intake of simple carbohydrates was significantly associated with greater odds of incident PF (per 1-SD increased: OR = 1.29; 95% CI = 1.02–1.62), specifically among males (OR = 1.52; 95% CI = 1.04–2.22). No association was observed with complex or total carbohydrate intake, glycemic load, or low-carbohydrate diet. Among the whole carbohydrate exposure, only higher consumption of simple carbohydrates in older age was associated with a higher risk of developing PF. Further studies are required to explore underlying mechanisms.
Association of Epigenetic Age Acceleration With Incident Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Among Older Women
Authors: Shadyab Aladdin H , McEvoy Linda K , Horvath Steve , Whitsel Eric A , Rapp Stephen R , Espeland Mark A , Resnick Susan M , Manson JoAnn E , Chen Jiu-Chiuan , Chen Brian H , Li Wenjun , Hayden Kathleen M , Bao Wei , Kusters Cynthia D J , LaCroix Andrea Z
Published: August 2021

Background

Epigenetic age acceleration (AgeAccel), which indicates faster biological aging relative to chronological age, has been associated with lower cognitive function. However, the association of AgeAccel with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia is not well-understood. We examined associations of 4 AgeAccel measures with incident MCI and dementia.

Methods

This prospective analysis included 578 older women from the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study selected for a case–cohort study of coronary heart disease (CHD). Women were free of CHD and cognitive impairment at baseline. Associations of AgeAccel measures (intrinsic AgeAccel [IEAA], extrinsic AgeAccel [EEAA], AgeAccelPheno, and AgeAccelGrim) with risks for incident adjudicated diagnoses of MCI and dementia overall and stratified by incident CHD status were evaluated.

Results

IEAA was not significantly associated with MCI (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 0.99–1.53), dementia (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.88–1.38), or cognitive impairment (HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.99–1.40). In stratified analysis by incident CHD status, there was a 39% (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.07–1.81) significantly higher risk of MCI for every 5-year increase in IEAA among women who developed CHD during follow-up. Other AgeAccel measures were not significantly associated with MCI or dementia.

Conclusions

IEAA was not significantly associated with cognitive impairment overall but was associated with impairment among women who developed CHD. Larger studies designed to examine associations of AgeAccel with cognitive impairment are needed, including exploration of whether associations are stronger in the setting of underlying vascular pathologies.