bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indigo Pulverata Levis (Chung-Dae, Persicaria tinctoria) Alleviates Atopic Dermatitis-like Inflammatory Responses In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Min Ga-Yul , Kim Ji-Hye , Kim Tae-In , Cho Won-Kyung , Yang Ju-Hye , Ma Jin-Yeul
Published: January 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with a type 2 T helper cell (Th2) immune response. The IndigoPulverata Levis extract (CHD) is used in traditional Southeast Asian medicine; however, its beneficial effects on AD remain uninvestigated. Therefore, we investigated the therapeutic effects of CHD in 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced BALB/c mice and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α- and interferon gamma (IFN)-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells. We evaluated immune cell infiltration, skin thickness, and the serum IgE and TNF-α levels in DNCB-induced AD mice. Moreover, we measured the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in the mice dorsal skin. We also studied the effect of CHD on the translocation of NF-κB p65 and inflammatory chemokines in HaCaT cells. Our in vivo results revealed that CHD reduced the dermis and epidermis thicknesses and inhibited immune cell infiltration. Furthermore, it suppressed the proinflammatory cytokine expression and MAPK and NF-κB phosphorylations in the skin tissue and decreased serum IgE and TNF-α levels. In vitro results indicated that CHD downregulated inflammatory chemokines and blocked NF-κB p65 translocation. Thus, we deduced that CHD is a potential drug candidate for AD treatment.
TRAPing Ghrelin-Activated Circuits: A Novel Tool to Identify, Target and Control Hormone-Responsive Populations in TRAP2 Mice
Authors: Stoltenborg Iris , Peris-Sampedro Fiona , Schéle Erik , Le May Marie V. , Adan Roger A. H. , Dickson Suzanne L.
Published: January 2022

The availability of Cre-based mouse lines for visualizing and targeting populations of hormone-sensitive cells has helped identify the neural circuitry driving hormone effects. However, these mice have limitations and may not even be available. For instance, the development of the first ghrelin receptor (Ghsr)-IRES-Cre model paved the way for using the Cre-lox system to identify and selectively manipulate ghrelin-responsive populations. The insertion of the IRES-Cre cassette, however, interfered with Ghsr expression, resulting in defective GHSR signaling and a pronounced phenotype in the homozygotes. As an alternative strategy to target ghrelin-responsive cells, we hereby utilize TRAP2 (targeted recombination in active populations) mice in which it is possible to gain genetic access to ghrelin-activated populations. In TRAP2 mice crossed with a reporter strain, we visualized ghrelin-activated cells and found, as expected, much activation in the arcuate nucleus (Arc). We then stimulated this population using a chemogenetic approach and found that this was sufficient to induce an orexigenic response of similar magnitude to that induced by peripheral ghrelin injection. The stimulation of this population also impacted food choice. Thus, the TRAPing of hormone-activated neurons (here exemplified by ghrelin-activated pathways) provides a complimentary/alternative technique to visualize, access and control discrete pathways, linking hormone action to circuit function.
Loss of SDHB Induces a Metabolic Switch in the hPheo1 Cell Line toward Enhanced OXPHOS
Authors: Tabebi Mouna , Kumar Dutta Ravi , Skoglund Camilla , Söderkvist Peter , Gimm Oliver
Published: January 2022

Background: Enzymes of tricarboxylic acid (TCA) have recently been recognized as tumor suppressors. Mutations in the SDHB subunit of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) cause pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PCCs/PGLs) and predispose patients to malignant disease with poor prognosis. Methods: Using the human pheochromocytoma cell line (hPheo1), we knocked down SDHB gene expression using CRISPR-cas9 technology. Results: Microarray gene expression analysis showed that >500 differentially expressed gene targets, about 54%, were upregulated in response to SDHB knock down. Notably, genes involved in glycolysis, hypoxia, cell proliferation, and cell differentiation were up regulated, whereas genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) were downregulated. In vitro studies show that hPheo1 proliferation is not affected negatively and the cells that survive by shifting their metabolism to the use of glutamine as an alternative energy source and promote OXPHOS activity. Knock down of SDHB expression results in a significant increase in GLUD1 expression in hPheo1 cells cultured as monolayer or as 3D culture. Analysis of TCGA data confirms the enhancement of GLUD1 in SDHB mutated/low expressed PCCs/PGLs. Conclusions: Our data suggest that the downregulation of SDHB in PCCs/PGLs results in increased GLUD1 expression and may represent a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in SDHB mutated tumors and SDHB loss of activity-dependent diseases.
Affinity, Specificity, and Cooperativity of DNA Binding by Bacterial Gene Regulatory Proteins
Authors: Carey Jannette
Published: January 2022

Nearly all of biology depends on interactions between molecules: proteins with small molecules, proteins with other proteins, nucleic acids with small molecules, and nucleic acids with proteins that regulate gene expression, our concern in this Special Issue. All those kinds of interactions, and others, constitute the vast majority of biology at the molecular level. An understanding of those interactions requires that we quantify them to learn how they interact: How strongly? With which partners? How—and how well—are different partners distinguished? This review addresses the evolution of our current understanding of the molecular origins of affinity and specificity in regulatory protein–DNA interactions, and suggests that both these properties can be modulated by cooperativity.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Suppressed Proinflammatory Cytokines Secretion and Enhanced MicroRNA(miR)-3168 Expression in Macrophages
Authors: Yu Hui-Chun , Huang Hsien-Bin , Huang Tseng Hsien-Yu , Lu Ming-Chi
Published: January 2022

We investigated the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its signaling pathway in the proinflammatory cytokines production of macrophages. The effects of different concentrations of BDNF on proinflammatory cytokines expression and secretion in U937 cell-differentiated macrophages, and human monocyte-derived macrophages were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The CRISPR-Cas9 system was used to knockout p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), one of the BDNF receptors. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was conducted to search for BDNF-regulated microRNA. A very low concentration of BDNF (1 ng/mL) could suppress the secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages but did not change their mRNA expression. BDNF suppressed IL-1β and IL-6 secretion in human monocyte-derived macrophages. In U937 cells, BDNF suppressed the phosphorylation of JNK and c-Jun. The p75NTR knockout strongly suppressed IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α secretion in macrophages and LPS-stimulated macrophages. BDNF regulated the expression of miR-3168 with Ras-related protein Rab-11A as its target. In conclusion, BDNF suppressed proinflammatory cytokines secretion in macrophages and inhibited the phosphorylation of JNK. Knockout of p75NTR suppressed proinflammatory cytokines expression and secretion. BDNF upregulated the expression of miR-3168. The inhibition of p75NTR could be a potential strategy to control inflammation.
The Heat Stress Transcription Factor LlHsfA4 Enhanced Basic Thermotolerance through Regulating ROS Metabolism in Lilies (Lilium Longiflorum)
Authors: Wang Chengpeng , Zhou Yunzhuan , Yang Xi , Zhang Bing , Xu Fuxiang , Wang Yue , Song Cunxu , Yi Mingfang , Ma Nan , Zhou Xiaofeng , He Junna
Published: January 2022

Heat stress severely affects the annual agricultural production. Heat stress transcription factors (HSFs) represent a critical regulatory juncture in the heat stress response (HSR) of plants. The HsfA1-dependent pathway has been explored well, but the regulatory mechanism of the HsfA1-independent pathway is still under-investigated. In the present research, HsfA4, an important gene of the HsfA1-independent pathway, was isolated from lilies (Lilium longiflorum) using the RACE method, which encodes 435 amino acids. LlHsfA4 contains a typical domain of HSFs and belongs to the HSF A4 family, according to homology comparisons and phylogenetic analysis. LlHsfA4 was mainly expressed in leaves and was induced by heat stress and H2O2 using qRT-PCR and GUS staining in transgenic Arabidopsis. LlHsfA4 had transactivation activity and was located in the nucleus and cytoplasm through a yeast one hybrid system and through transient expression in lily protoplasts. Over expressing LlHsfA4 in Arabidopsis enhanced its basic thermotolerance, but acquired thermotolerance was not achieved. Further research found that heat stress could increase H2O2 content in lily leaves and reduced H2O2 accumulation in transgenic plants, which was consistent with the up-regulation of HSR downstream genes such as Heat stress proteins (HSPs), Galactinol synthase1 (GolS1), WRKY DNA binding protein 30 (WRKY30), Zinc finger of Arabidopsis thaliana 6 (ZAT6) and the ROS-scavenging enzyme Ascorbate peroxidase 2 (APX2). In conclusion, these results indicate that LlHsfA4 plays important roles in heat stress response through regulating the ROS metabolism in lilies.
DM1 Transgenic Mice Exhibit Abnormal Neurotransmitter Homeostasis and Synaptic Plasticity in Association with RNA Foci and Mis-Splicing in the Hippocampus
Authors: Potier Brigitte , Lallemant Louison , Parrot Sandrine , Huguet-Lachon Aline , Gourdon Geneviève , Dutar Patrick , Gomes-Pereira Mário
Published: January 2022

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a severe neuromuscular disease mediated by a toxic gain of function of mutant RNAs. The neuropsychological manifestations affect multiple domains of cognition and behavior, but their etiology remains elusive. Transgenic DMSXL mice carry the DM1 mutation, show behavioral abnormalities, and express low levels of GLT1, a critical regulator of glutamate concentration in the synaptic cleft. However, the impact of glutamate homeostasis on neurotransmission in DM1 remains unknown. We confirmed reduced glutamate uptake in the DMSXL hippocampus. Patch clamp recordings in hippocampal slices revealed increased amplitude of tonic glutamate currents in DMSXL CA1 pyramidal neurons and DG granule cells, likely mediated by higher levels of ambient glutamate. Unexpectedly, extracellular GABA levels and tonic current were also elevated in DMSXL mice. Finally, we found evidence of synaptic dysfunction in DMSXL mice, suggestive of abnormal short-term plasticity, illustrated by an altered LTP time course in DG and in CA1. Synaptic dysfunction was accompanied by RNA foci accumulation in localized areas of the hippocampus and by the mis-splicing of candidate genes with relevant functions in neurotransmission. Molecular and functional changes triggered by toxic RNA may induce synaptic abnormalities in restricted brain areas that favor neuronal dysfunction.
Impacts of Commonly Used Edible Plants on the Modulation of Platelet Function
Authors: Albadawi Dina A. I. , Ravishankar Divyashree , Vallance Thomas M. , Patel Ketan , Osborn Helen M. I. , Vaiyapuri Sakthivel
Published: January 2022

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a primary cause of deaths worldwide. Thrombotic diseases, specifically stroke and coronary heart diseases, account for around 85% of CVDs-induced deaths. Platelets (small circulating blood cells) are responsible for the prevention of excessive bleeding upon vascular injury, through blood clotting (haemostasis). However, unnecessary activation of platelets under pathological conditions, such as upon the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques, results in thrombus formation (thrombosis), which can cause life threatening conditions such as stroke or heart attack. Therefore, antiplatelet medications are usually prescribed for people who are at a high risk of thrombotic diseases. The currently used antiplatelet drugs are associated with major side effects such as excessive bleeding, and some patients are resistant to these drugs. Therefore, numerous studies have been conducted to develop new antiplatelet agents and notably, to establish the relationship between edible plants, specifically fruits, vegetables and spices, and cardiovascular health. Indeed, healthy and balanced diets have proven to be effective for the prevention of CVDs in diverse settings. A high intake of fruits and vegetables in regular diet is associated with lower risks for stroke and coronary heart diseases because of their plethora of phytochemical constituents. In this review, we discuss the impacts of commonly used selected edible plants (specifically vegetables, fruits and spices) and/or their isolated compounds on the modulation of platelet function, haemostasis and thrombosis.
Intracellular HINT1-Assisted Hydrolysis of Nucleoside 5′-O-Selenophosphate Leads to the Release of Hydrogen Selenide That Exhibits Toxic Effects in Human Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Krakowiak Agnieszka , Czernek Liliana , Pichlak Marta , Kaczmarek Renata
Published: January 2022

In this study, we present a new selenium derivative, 2′-deoxyguanosine-5′-O-selenophosphate (dGMPSe), synthesized by the oxathiaphospholane method and adapted here for the synthesis of nucleoside selenophosphates. Using biochemical assays (HPLC- and fluorescence-based), we investigated the enzymatic activity of HINT1 towards dGMPSe in comparison with the corresponding thiophosphate nucleoside, i.e., dGMPS. Both substrates showed similar kcat and a small difference in Km, and during the reactions the release of reducing agents such as H2Se and H2S were expected and detected. MTT viability assay and microscopic analysis showed that dGMPSe was toxic to HeLa cancer cells, and this cytotoxicity was due to the release of H2Se. The release of H2Se or H2S in the living cells after administration of dGMPSe and/or dGMPS, both without carrier and by electroporation, was observed using a fluorescence assay, as previously for NMPS. In conclusion, our comparative experiments with dGMPSe and dGMPS indicate that the HINT1 enzyme is capable of converting (d)NMPSe to (d)NMP and H2Se, both in vitro and intracellularly. Since the anticancer activity of various selenium compounds depends on the formation of hydrogen selenide, the actual inducer of cell death, we propose that selenium-containing nucleotides represent another option as novel compounds with anticancer therapeutic potential.
The Effects of Exercise and Activity-Based Physical Therapy on Bone after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Sutor Tommy W. , Kura Jayachandra , Mattingly Alex J. , Otzel Dana M. , Yarrow Joshua F.
Published: January 2022

Spinal cord injury (SCI) produces paralysis and a unique form of neurogenic disuse osteoporosis that dramatically increases fracture risk at the distal femur and proximal tibia. This bone loss is driven by heightened bone resorption and near-absent bone formation during the acute post-SCI recovery phase and by a more traditional high-turnover osteopenia that emerges more chronically, which is likely influenced by the continual neural impairment and musculoskeletal unloading. These observations have stimulated interest in specialized exercise or activity-based physical therapy (ABPT) modalities (e.g., neuromuscular or functional electrical stimulation cycling, rowing, or resistance training, as well as other standing, walking, or partial weight-bearing interventions) that reload the paralyzed limbs and promote muscle recovery and use-dependent neuroplasticity. However, only sparse and relatively inconsistent evidence supports the ability of these physical rehabilitation regimens to influence bone metabolism or to increase bone mineral density (BMD) at the most fracture-prone sites in persons with severe SCI. This review discusses the pathophysiology and cellular/molecular mechanisms that influence bone loss after SCI, describes studies evaluating bone turnover and BMD responses to ABPTs during acute versus chronic SCI, identifies factors that may impact the bone responses to ABPT, and provides recommendations to optimize ABPTs for bone recovery.
Neuroinflammation: A Potential Risk for Dementia
Authors: Ahmad Md Afroz , Kareem Ozaifa , Khushtar Mohammad , Akbar Md , Haque Md Rafiul , Iqubal Ashif , Haider Md Faheem , Pottoo Faheem Hyder , Abdulla Fatima S. , Al-Haidar Mahia B. , Alhajri Noora
Published: January 2022

Dementia is a neurodegenerative condition that is considered a major factor contributing to cognitive decline that reduces independent function. Pathophysiological pathways are not well defined for neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia; however, published evidence has shown the role of numerous inflammatory processes in the brain contributing toward their pathology. Microglia of the central nervous system (CNS) are the principal components of the brain’s immune defence system and can detect harmful or external pathogens. When stimulated, the cells trigger neuroinflammatory responses by releasing proinflammatory chemokines, cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and nitrogen species in order to preserve the cell’s microenvironment. These proinflammatory markers include cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNFα chemokines such as CCR3 and CCL2 and CCR5. Microglial cells may produce a prolonged inflammatory response that, in some circumstances, is indicated in the promotion of neurodegenerative diseases. The present review is focused on the involvement of microglial cell activation throughout neurodegenerative conditions and the link between neuroinflammatory processes and dementia.
Three Microbial Musketeers of the Seas: Shewanella baltica, Aliivibrio fischeri and Vibrio harveyi, and Their Adaptation to Different Salinity Probed by a Proteomic Approach
Authors: Kloska Anna , Cech Grzegorz M. , Nowicki Dariusz , Maciąg-Dorszyńska Monika , Bogucka Aleksandra E. , Markert Stephanie , Becher Dörte , Potrykus Katarzyna , Czaplewska Paulina , Szalewska-Pałasz Agnieszka
Published: January 2022

Osmotic changes are common challenges for marine microorganisms. Bacteria have developed numerous ways of dealing with this stress, including reprogramming of global cellular processes. However, specific molecular adaptation mechanisms to osmotic stress have mainly been investigated in terrestrial model bacteria. In this work, we aimed to elucidate the basis of adjustment to prolonged salinity challenges at the proteome level in marine bacteria. The objects of our studies were three representatives of bacteria inhabiting various marine environments, Shewanella baltica, Vibrio harveyi and Aliivibrio fischeri. The proteomic studies were performed with bacteria cultivated in increased and decreased salinity, followed by proteolytic digestion of samples which were then subjected to liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis. We show that bacteria adjust at all levels of their biological processes, from DNA topology through gene expression regulation and proteasome assembly, to transport and cellular metabolism. The finding that many similar adaptation strategies were observed for both low- and high-salinity conditions is particularly striking. The results show that adaptation to salinity challenge involves the accumulation of DNA-binding proteins and increased polyamine uptake. We hypothesize that their function is to coat and protect the nucleoid to counteract adverse changes in DNA topology due to ionic shifts.
Patient-Specific iPSCs-Based Models of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Focus on Aberrant Calcium Signaling
Authors: Grekhnev Dmitriy A. , Kaznacheyeva Elena V. , Vigont Vladimir A.
Published: January 2022

The development of cell reprogramming technologies became a breakthrough in the creation of new models of human diseases, including neurodegenerative pathologies. The iPSCs-based models allow for the studying of both hereditary and sporadic cases of pathologies and produce deep insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration. The use of the cells most vulnerable to a particular pathology makes it possible to identify specific pathological mechanisms and greatly facilitates the task of selecting the most effective drugs. To date, a large number of studies on patient-specific models of neurodegenerative diseases has been accumulated. In this review, we focused on the alterations of such a ubiquitous and important intracellular regulatory pathway as calcium signaling. Here, we reviewed and analyzed the data obtained from iPSCs-based models of different neurodegenerative disorders that demonstrated aberrant calcium signaling.
Role of Precision Oncology in Type II Endometrial and Prostate Cancers in the African Population: Global Cancer Genomics Disparities
Authors: Marima Rahaba , Hull Rodney , Mbeje Mandisa , Molefi Thulo , Mathabe Kgomotso , Elbagory Abdulrahman M. , Demetriou Demetra , Dlamini Zodwa
Published: January 2022

Precision oncology can be defined as molecular profiling of tumors to identify targetable alterations. Emerging research reports the high mortality rates associated with type II endometrial cancer in black women and with prostate cancer in men of African ancestry. The lack of adequate genetic reference information from the African genome is one of the major obstacles in exploring the benefits of precision oncology in the African context. Whilst external factors such as the geography, environment, health-care access and socio-economic status may contribute greatly towards the disparities observed in type II endometrial and prostate cancers in black populations compared to Caucasians, the contribution of African ancestry to the contribution of genetics to the etiology of these cancers cannot be ignored. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) continue to emerge as important regulators of gene expression and the key molecular pathways involved in tumorigenesis. Particular attention is focused on activated/repressed genes and associated pathways, while the redundant pathways (pathways that have the same outcome or activate the same downstream effectors) are often ignored. However, comprehensive evidence to understand the relationship between type II endometrial cancer, prostate cancer and African ancestry remains poorly understood. The sub-Saharan African (SSA) region has both the highest incidence and mortality of both type II endometrial and prostate cancers. Understanding how the entire transcriptomic landscape of these two reproductive cancers is regulated by ncRNAs in an African cohort may help elucidate the relationship between race and pathological disparities of these two diseases. This review focuses on global disparities in medicine, PCa and ECa. The role of precision oncology in PCa and ECa in the African population will also be discussed.
Obesity-Related Adipose Tissue Remodeling in the Light of Extracellular Mitochondria Transfer
Authors: Lecoutre Simon , Clément Karine , Dugail Isabelle
Published: January 2022

Adipose tissue dysfunction is strongly associated with obesity and its metabolic complications such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It is well established that lipid-overloaded adipose tissue produces a large range of secreted molecules that contribute a pro-inflammatory microenvironment which subsequently disseminates towards multi-organ metabolic homeostasis disruption. Besides physiopathological contribution of adipose-derived molecules, a new paradigm is emerging following the discovery that adipocytes have a propensity to extrude damaged mitochondria in the extracellular space, to be conveyed through the blood and taken up by cell acceptors, in a process called intercellular mitochondria transfer. This review summarizes the discovery of mitochondria transfer, its relation to cell quality control systems and recent data that demonstrate its relevant implication in the context of obesity-related adipose tissue dysfunction.
Silver Cluster Interactions with Tyrosine: Towards Amino Acid Detection
Authors: Buglak Andrey A. , Kononov Alexei I.
Published: January 2022

Tyrosine (Tyr) is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, catecholamines, thyroid hormones, etc. Multiple pathologies are associated with impaired Tyr metabolism. Silver nanoclusters (Ag NCs) can be applied for colorimetric, fluorescent, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) detection of Tyr. However, one should understand the theoretical basics of interactions between Tyr and Ag NCs. Thereby, we calculated the binding energy (Eb) between Tyr and Agnq (n = 1–8; q = 0–2) NCs using the density functional theory (DFT) to find the most stable complexes. Since Ag NCs are synthesized on Tyr in an aqueous solution at pH 12.5, we studied Tyr−1, semiquinone (SemiQ−1), and Tyr−2. Ag32+ and Ag5+ had the highest Eb. The absorption spectrum of Tyr−2 significantly red-shifts with the attachment of Ag32+, which is prospective for colorimetric Tyr detection. Ag32+ interacts with all functional groups of SemiQ−1 (phenolate, amino group, and carboxylate), which makes detection of Tyr possible due to band emergence at 1324 cm−1 in the vibrational spectrum. The ground state charge transfer between Ag and carboxylate determines the band emergence at 1661 cm−1 in the Raman spectrum of the SemiQ−1–Ag32+ complex. Thus, the prospects of Tyr detection using silver nanoclusters were demonstrated.
Problems with the Concept of “Pest” among the Diversity of Pestiferous Thrips
Authors: Mound Laurence A. , Wang Zhaohong , Lima Élison F. B. , Marullo Rita
Published: January 2022

Almost all of the thrips species that are considered pests are members of a single subfamily of Thripidae, the Thripinae, a group that represents less than 30% of the species in the insect Order Thysanoptera. Three of the five major Families of Thysanoptera (Aeolothripidae, Heterothripidae, Melanthripidae) are not known to include any pest species. The Phlaeothripidae that includes more than 50% of the 6300 thrips species listed includes very few that are considered to be pests. Within the Thripidae, the members of the three smaller subfamilies, Panchaetothripinae, Dendrothripinae and Sericothripinae, include remarkably few species that result in serious crop losses. It is only in the subfamily Thripinae, and particularly among species of the Frankliniella genus-group and the Thrips genus-group that the major thrips species are found, including all but one of the vectors of Orthotospovirus infections. It is argued that the concept of pest is a socio-economic problem, with the pest status of any particular species being dependent on geographical area, cultivation practices, and market expectations as much as the intrinsic biology of any thrips species.
Advancements in Mass Rearing the Air Potato Beetle Lilioceris cheni
Authors: Kraus Emily C. , Murray Rosemary , Kelm Cassandra , Poffenberger Ryan , Rohrig Eric , Fairbanks Kate
Published: January 2022

The air potato beetle, Lilioceris cheni Gressitt and Kimoto (Coleoptera:Chrysomelidae), is a successful biological control agent of the air potato vine, Dioscorea bulbifera L. (Dioscoreales: Dioscoreaceae), in the southern United States. Lilioceris cheni is currently being mass-reared by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Plant Industry (FDACS-DPI) for biological control releases and research. The facility rears and releases over 50,000 adult beetles annually at approximately 1000 different locations. In addition to data on beetle production and distribution, studies on alternative larval and adult diets are described. Adults fed bulbils as the sole food source had reduced life spans compared with beetles given fresh air potato leaves. Adults survived without air potato leaves or bulbils for several days to two weeks depending on availability of leaves at emergence. Larvae did not survive on a modified artificial Colorado potato beetle diet containing fresh air potato vine leaves. Adults survived while consuming artificial diet but ceased oviposition. They, however, resumed egg laying less than one week after being returned to a diet of fresh air potato vine leaves.
Mitogenomes of Nine Asian Skipper Genera and Their Phylogenetic Position (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae: Pyrginae)
Authors: Xiao Jintian , Liu Jiaqi , Ma Luyao , Hao Xiangyu , Yu Ruitao , Yuan Xiangqun
Published: January 2022

In this study, complete mitochondrial genomes of nine species representing three tribes in the subfamily Pyrginae sensu lato were newly sequenced. The mitogenomes are closed double-stranded circular molecules, with the length ranging from 15,232 bp to 15,559 bp, which all encode 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and a control region. The orientation and gene order of these nine mitogenomes are identical to the inferred ancestral arrangement of insects. All PCGs exhibit the typical start codon ATN except for cox1 (using CGA) and cox2 (using TTG) in Mooreana trichoneura. Most of the PCGs terminate with a TAA stop codon, while cox1, cox2, nad4, and nad5 end with the incomplete codon single T. For the different datasets, we found that the one comprising all 37 genes of the mitogenome produced the highest nodal support, indicating that the inclusion of RNAs improves the phylogenetic signal. This study re-confirmed the status of Capila, Pseudocoladenia, and Sarangesa; namely, Capila belongs to the tribe Tagiadini, and Pseudocoladenia and Sarangesa to the tribe Celaenorrhini. Diagnostic characters distinguishing the two tribes, the length of the forewing cell and labial palpi, are no longer significant. Two populations of Pseudocoladenia dan fabia from China and Myanmar and P. dan dhyana from Thailand are confirmed as conspecific.
Effect of Trabeculectomy on Mean and Centroid Surgically Induced Astigmatism
Authors: Ando Wakako , Kamiya Kazutaka , Kasahara Masayuki , Shoji Nobuyuki
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to investigate the arithmetic mean of surgically induced astigmatism (M-SIA) and the centroid of surgically induced astigmatism (C-SIA) after standard trabeculectomy. We comprised 185 eyes of 143 consecutive patients (mean age ± standard deviation, 67.7 ± 11.6 years) who underwent trabeculectomy and completed at least a 3-month routine follow-up. In all cases, the scleral flap was made at the nasal-superior location. Corneal astigmatism was measured with an automated keratometer. We calculated the M-SIA and the C-SIA using vector analysis and applied the astigmatism double angle plot. The magnitude of corneal astigmatism increased significantly, from 1.17 ± 0.92 D preoperatively to 1.77 ± 1.05 D postoperatively (paired t-test, p < 0.001). The M-SIA was 1.12 ± 0.55 D, and the C-SIA was 0.73 D @64° ± 1.02 D in the right eye group, and the M-SIA was 1.08 ± 0.48 D and the C-SIA was 0.60 D @117° ± 1.03 D in the left eye group. The C-SIA showed an astigmatic shift toward the nasal-superior location of the scleral flap creation. Our results revealed that trabeculectomy induced the SIA in the direction of the scleral flap location and that the C-SIA was much lower than the M-SIA in eyes undergoing trabeculectomy.
ONLINE-TICS: Internet-Delivered Behavioral Treatment for Patients with Chronic Tic Disorders
Authors: Haas Martina , Jakubovski Ewgeni , Kunert Katja , Fremer Carolin , Buddensiek Nadine , Häckl Sebastian , Lenz-Ziegenbein Martina , Musil Richard , Roessner Veit , Münchau Alexander , Neuner Irene , Koch Armin , Müller-Vahl Kirsten
Published: January 2022

Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) is considered a first-line therapy for tics. However, availability of CBIT is extremely limited due to a lack of qualified therapists. This study is a multicenter (n = 5), randomized, controlled, observer-blind trial including 161 adult patients with chronic tic disorders (CTD) to provide data on efficacy and safety of an internet-delivered, completely therapist-independent CBIT intervention (iCBIT Minddistrict®) in the treatment of tics compared to placebo and face-to-face (f2f) CBIT. Using a linear mixed model with the change to baseline of Yale Global Tic Severity Scale-Total Tic Score (YGTSS-TTS) as a dependent variable, we found a clear trend towards significance for superiority of iCBIT (n = 67) over placebo (n = 70) (−1.28 (−2.58; 0.01); p = 0.053). In addition, the difference in tic reduction between iCBIT and placebo increased, resulting in a significant difference 3 (−2.25 (−3.75; −0.75), p = 0.003) and 6 months (−2.71 (−4.27; −1.16), p < 0.001) after the end of treatment. Key secondary analysis indicated non-inferiority of iCBIT in comparison to f2f CBIT (n = 24). No safety signals were detected. Although the primary endpoint was narrowly missed, it is strongly suggested that iCBIT is superior compared to placebo. Remarkably, treatment effects of iCBIT even increased over time.
Prevention and Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Relapse after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: The State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Leotta Salvatore , Condorelli Annalisa , Sciortino Roberta , Milone Giulio , Bellofiore Claudia , Garibaldi Bruno , Schininà Giovanni , Spadaro Andrea , Cupri Alessandra , Milone Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents the only curative option. Progress has been made in the last two decades in the pre-transplant induction therapies, supportive care, selection of donors and conditioning regimens that allowed to extend the HSCT to a larger number of patients, including those aged over 65 years and/or lacking an HLA-identical donor. Furthermore, improvements in the prophylaxis of the graft-versus-host disease and of infection have dramatically reduced transplant-related mortality. The relapse of AML remains the major reason for transplant failure affecting almost 40–50% of the patients. From 10 to 15 years ago to date, treatment options for AML relapsing after HSCT were limited to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy and donor leukocyte infusions (DLI). Nowadays, novel agents and targeted therapies have enriched the therapeutic landscape. Moreover, very recently, the therapeutic landscape has been enriched by manipulated cellular products (CAR-T, CAR-CIK, CAR-NK). In light of these new perspectives, careful monitoring of minimal-residual disease (MRD) and prompt application of pre-emptive strategies in the post-transplant setting have become imperative. Herein, we review the current state of the art on monitoring, prevention and treatment of relapse of AML after HSCT with particular attention on novel agents and future directions.
Clinical and Laboratory Findings of Nosocomial Sepsis in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants According to Causative Organisms
Authors: Park Kyung-Hee , Park Su-Jung , Bae Mi-Hye , Jeong Seong-Hee , Jeong Mun-Hui , Lee Narae , Han Young-Mi , Byun Shin-Yun
Published: January 2022

Background: nosocomial sepsis remains a significant source of morbidity and mortality in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. Early and accurate diagnosis is very important, but it is difficult due to the similarities in clinical manifestation between the causative microorganisms. We tried to identify the differences between causative microorganisms in clinical and laboratory findings and to help choose antibiotics, when sepsis was suspected in ELBW infants. Methods: a retrospective study was conducted on preterm infants, born at less than 28 weeks of gestation, with a birth weight of less than 1000 g between January 2009 and December 2019. Clinical and laboratory findings of suspected sepsis, after the first 72 h of life, were assessed. We classified them into four groups according to blood culture results (gram positive, gram negative, fungal, and negative culture groups) and compared them. Results: a total of 158 patients were included after using the exclusion criteria, with 45 (29%) in the gram positive group, 35 (22%) in the gram negative group, 27 (17%) in the fungal group, and 51 (32%) in the negative culture group. There were no significant differences in mean gestational age, birth weight, and neonatal morbidities, except for the age of onset, which was earlier in the fungal group than other groups. White blood cell (WBC) counts were the highest in the gram negative group and the lowest in the fungal group. The mean platelet counts were the lowest in the fungal group. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were the highest in the gram negative group, while glucose was the highest in the fungal group. Conclusions: in conclusion, we showed that there are some differences in laboratory findings, according to causative microorganisms in the nosocomial sepsis of ELBW infants. Increased WBC and CRP were associated with gram negative infection, while decreased platelet and glucose level were associated with fungal infection. These data may be helpful for choosing empirical antibiotics when sepsis is suspected.
Elevated Baseline Serum PD-L1 Level May Predict Poor Outcomes from Breast Cancer in African-American and Hispanic Women
Authors: Wu Yanyuan , Dutta Pranabananda , Clayton Sheilah , McCloud Amaya , Vadgama Jaydutt V.
Published: January 2022

Background: The therapeutic targeting of PD-1/PD-L1 has shown clinical efficacy in treating metastatic breast cancer. We investigated the clinical significance of measuring serum PD-L1 levels in African-American and Hispanic women with breast cancer. Methods: PD-L1 levels were measured with the ELISA method from the serum samples of 244 African-Americans and Hispanics with breast cancer and 155 women without cancers. The levels of INFα2 and TNFα were measured with a Luminex multiplex assay. The protein levels of pAkt and CD44/CD24 in tumor cells were tested with immunohistochemistry analysis. Cox regression was used to assess the predicting role of serum PD-L1 for disease-free survival (DFS). Results: PD-L1 levels were significantly elevated in breast cancer cases compared to non-cancer cases. The high PD-L1 levels were associated with HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancer. PD-L1 level independently predicted DFS in both African-American and Hispanic women. The evaluated PD-L1 level was found to be associated with high IFNα2 and TNFα in breast cancer patients. Conclusions: PD-L1 serum levels can predict DFS in African American and Hispanic women with breast cancer. Furthermore, a high level of PD-L1 is more likely to be associated with tumor loss PTEN and the activation of Akt or with breast cancer cells expressing CD44high/CD24low. Further validation studies are needed to determine if PD-L1 could serve as a biomarker for patient selection for anti-PD-L1 therapy and assess treatment outcomes.
Predictors of Mortality in Hemodialyzed Patients after SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Tylicki Leszek , Puchalska-Reglińska Ewelina , Tylicki Piotr , Och Aleksander , Polewska Karolina , Biedunkiewicz Bogdan , Parczewska Aleksandra , Szabat Krzysztof , Wolf Jacek , Dębska-Ślizień Alicja
Published: January 2022

Introduction: The determinants of COVID-19 mortality are well-characterized in the general population. Less numerous and inconsistent data are among the maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients, who are the population most at risk of an unfavorable prognosis. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study we included all adult HD patients from the Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland, with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection hospitalized between 6 October 2020 and 28 February 2021, both those who survived, and also those who died. Demographic, clinical, treatment, and laboratory data on admission, were extracted from the electronic medical records of the dedicated hospital and patients’ dialysis unit, and compared between survivors and non-survivors. We used univariable and multivariable logistic regression methods to explore the risk factors associated with 3-month all-cause mortality. Results: The 133 patients (53.38% males) aged 73.0 (67–79) years, with a median duration of hemodialysis of 42.0 (17–86) months, were included in this study. At diagnosis, the majority were considered to have a mild course (34 of 133 patients were asymptomatic, another 63 subjects presented mild symptoms), while 36 (27.07%) patients had low blood oxygen saturation and required oxygen supplementation. Three-month mortality was 39.08% including an in-hospital case fatality rate of 33.08%. Multivariable logistic regression showed that the frailty clinical index of 4 or greater (OR 8.36, 95%CI 1.81–38.6; p < 0.01), D-Dimer of 1500 ng/mL or greater (6.00, 1.94–18.53; p < 0.01), and CRP of >118 mg/L at admission (3.77 1.09–13.01; p = 0.04) were found to be predictive of mortality. Conclusion: Very high 3-month all-cause mortality in hospitalized HD patients was determined mainly by frailty. High CRP and D-dimer levels upon admission further confer mortality risk.
Metaheuristic Algorithms Applied to Color Image Segmentation on HSV Space
Authors: Giuliani Donatella
Published: January 2022

In this research, we propose an unsupervised method for segmentation and edge extraction of color images on the HSV space. This approach is composed of two different phases in which are applied two metaheuristic algorithms, respectively the Firefly (FA) and the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithms. In the first phase, we performed a pixel-based segmentation on each color channel, applying the FA algorithm and the Gaussian Mixture Model. The FA algorithm automatically detects the number of clusters, given by histogram maxima of each single-band image. The detected maxima define the initial means for the parameter estimation of the GMM. Applying the Bayes’ rule, the posterior probabilities of the GMM can be used for assigning pixels to clusters. After processing each color channel, we recombined the segmented components in the final multichannel image. A further reduction in the resultant cluster colors is obtained using the inner product as a similarity index. In the second phase, once we have assigned all pixels to the corresponding classes of the HSV space, we carry out the second step with a region-based segmentation applied to the corresponding grayscale image. For this purpose, the bioinspired Artificial Bee Colony algorithm is performed for edge extraction.
40Ar/39Ar Ages and Geochemistry of Seamount Basalts from the Western Pacific Province
Authors: Liu Qian , Tang Limei , Chen Ling , Gao Peng
Published: January 2022

Seamounts are features generated by hot spots and associated intraplate volcanic activity. The geochemical characteristics of igneous rocks constituting seamounts provide evidence of important details of dynamic processes in the Earth, such as mantle magma source areas, and are key to understanding how mantle plume processes control the formation and evolution of seamounts and their resulting geochemical characteristics. The Pacific Ocean contains a large number of hitherto unstudied seamounts, whose ages and geochemical characteristics remain poorly known. This study presents the geochemical characteristics of six basalt samples from five seamounts in the Western Pacific and the 40Ar/9Ar ages of three samples are determined. The new analysis yielded 40Ar/39Ar ages for seamounts samples MP3D21, MP5D11, and MP5D15A of 95.43 ± 0.33, 62.4 ± 0.26, and 99.03 ± 0.4 Ma, respectively. The geochemical profiles of seamounts samples MP3D04, MP3D21, MP5D11, MP5D15A, MPID201, and MPID202 are consistent with alkaline basalts, as evidence by alkali-rich, silicon-poor compositions along with high titanium concentrations. The primitive mantle normalized rare-earth elements and trace elements spider pattern are similar to those of ocean island basalts. The Ta/Hf and Nb/Zr ratios and La/Zr-Nb/Zr discriminant diagrams indicate that the six seamounts formed from magma that originated in the deep mantle.
Transmission of Onychomycosis and Dermatophytosis between Household Members: A Scoping Review
Authors: Jazdarehee Aria , Malekafzali Leilynaz , Lee Jason , Lewis Richard , Mukovozov Ilya
Published: January 2022

Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection of the nail, caused by dermatophytes, non-dermatophytes, and yeasts. Predisposing factors include older age, trauma, diabetes, immunosuppression, and previous history of nail psoriasis or tinea pedis. Though many biological risk factors have been well characterized, the role of the environment has been less clear. Studies have found evidence of transmission in 44% to 47% of households with at least one affected individual, but the underlying mechanisms and risk factors for transmission of onychomycosis between household members are incompletely understood. A scoping literature review was performed to characterize and summarize environmental risk factors involved in the transmission of onychomycosis within households. A total of 90 papers met the inclusion criteria, and extracted data was analyzed in an iterative manner. Shared household surfaces may harbor dermatophytes and provide sources for infection. Shared household equipment, including footwear, bedding, and nail tools, may transmit dermatophytes. The persistence of dermatophytes on household cleaning supplies, linen, and pets may serve as lasting sources of infection. Based on these findings, we provide recommendations that aim to interrupt household transmission of onychomycosis. Further investigation of the specific mechanisms behind household spread is needed to break the cycle of transmission, reducing the physical and social impacts of onychomycosis.
The Normative World of Memes: Political Communication Strategies in the United States and Ecuador
Authors: López-Paredes Marco , Carrillo-Andrade Andrea
Published: January 2022

The media convergence model presents an environment in which everyone produces information without intermediates or filters. A subsequent insight shows that users (prosumers) —gathered in networked communities—also shape messages’ flow. Social media play a substantial role. This information is loaded with public values and ideologies that shape a normative world: social media has become a fundamental platform where users interact and promote public values. Memetics facilitates this phenomenon. Memes have three main characteristics: (1) Diffuse at the micro-level but shape the macrostructure of society; (2) Are based on popular culture; (3) Travel through competition and selection. In this context, this paper examineshow citizens from Ecuador and the United States reappropriate memes during a public discussion? The investigation is based on multimodal analysis and compares the most popular memes among the United States and Ecuador produced during the candidate debate (Trump vs. Biden [2020] and Lasso vs. Arauz [2021]). The findings suggest that, during a public discussion, it is common to use humor based on popular culture to question authority. Furthermore, a message becomes a meme when it evidences the gap between reality and expectations (normativity). Normativity depends on the context: Americans complain about the expectations of a debate; Ecuadorians, about discourtesy and violence.