bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bevacizumab Increases Endothelin-1 Production via Forkhead Box Protein O1 in Human Glomerular Microvascular Endothelial Cells In Vitro
Authors: Nihei Satoru , Asaka Junichi , Takahashi Hiroaki , Kudo Kenzo
Published: December 2021

Molecular mechanisms underlying the nephrotoxicity associated with bevacizumab are unclear. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is involved in podocyte injury and proteinuria, and its level increases in most cases of kidney disorders. Forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), a transcription factor, is a major determinant of ET-1 promoter activation and is regulated by protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation-dependent nuclear exclusion. We evaluated the effect of bevacizumab on ET-1 production in human glomerular microvascular endothelial cells (hGECs). We analyzed the changes in the mRNA and protein levels of ET-1 in hGECs treated with bevacizumab using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Changes in the protein levels and phosphorylation status of Akt and FoxO1 in hGECs treated with bevacizumab were analyzed by western blotting. After cell lysis, FoxO1 protein was isolated from the cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions. We also investigated the effects of AS1842856 (a FoxO1 inhibitor) on bevacizumab-induced ET-1 production. Bevacizumab significantly and dose-dependently increased the mRNA and protein levels of ET-1 in hGECs (

p

 < 0.05). Bevacizumab treatment also led to a decrease in phosphorylated Akt protein levels. Inhibition of Akt activity by LY294002 promoted ET-1 production. Bevacizumab also induced an increase in FoxO1 protein levels in the nucleus. Inhibition of FoxO1 activity by AS1842856 resulted in decreased ET-1 levels in bevacizumab-treated hGECs. ET-1 axis activation, Akt inactivation, and FoxO1 nuclear localization are the molecular mechanisms underlying bevacizumab-induced nephrotoxicity. Therefore, inhibition of renal ET-1 production could be a promising approach to protect against or treat bevacizumab-induced nephrotoxicity.
Destroy the Robust Commercial Watermark via Deep Convolutional Encoder-Decoder Network
Authors: Jia Wei , Zhu Zhiying , Wang Huaqi
Published: December 2021

Nowadays, robust watermark is widely used to protect the copyright of multimedia. Robustness is the most important ability for watermark in application. Since the watermark attacking algorithm is a good way to promote the development of robust watermark, we proposed a new method focused on destroying the commercial watermark. At first, decorrelation and desynchronization are used as the preprocessing method. Considering that the train set of thousands of watermarked images is hard to get, we further use the Bernoulli sampling and dropout in network to achieve the training instance extension. The experiments show that the proposed network can effectively remove the commercial watermark. Meanwhile, the processed image can result in good quality that is almost as good as the original image.
Quantile-Dependent Heritability of Glucose, Insulin, Proinsulin, Insulin Resistance, and Glycated Hemoglobin
Authors: Williams Paul T.
Published: December 2021

Background: “Quantile-dependent expressivity” is a dependence of genetic effects on whether the phenotype (e.g., insulin resistance) is high or low relative to its distribution. Methods: Quantile-specific offspring-parent regression slopes (βOP) were estimated by quantile regression for fasting glucose concentrations in 6,453 offspring-parent pairs from the Framingham Heart Study. Results: Quantile-specific heritability (h2), estimated by 2βOP/(1 + rspouse), increased 0.0045 ± 0.0007 (p = 8.8 × 10−14) for each 1% increment in the fasting glucose distribution, that is, h2 ± SE were 0.057 ± 0.021, 0.095 ± 0.024, 0.146 ± 0.019, 0.293 ± 0.038, and 0.456 ± 0.061 at the 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th percentiles of the fasting glucose distribution, respectively. Significant increases in quantile-specific heritability were also suggested for fasting insulin (p = 1.2 × 10−6), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, p = 5.3 × 10−5), insulin/glucose ratio (p = 3.9 × 10−5), proinsulin (p = 1.4 × 10−6), proinsulin/insulin ratio (p = 2.7 × 10−5), and glucose concentrations during a glucose tolerance test (p = 0.001), and their logarithmically transformed values. Discussion/Conclusion: These findings suggest alternative interpretations to precision medicine and gene-environment interactions, including alternative interpretation of reported synergisms between ACE, ADRB3, PPAR-γ2, and TNF-α polymorphisms and being born small for gestational age on adult insulin resistance (fetal origin theory), and gene-adiposity (APOE, ENPP1, GCKR, IGF2BP2, IL-6, IRS-1, KIAA0280, LEPR, MFHAS1, RETN, TCF7L2), gene-exercise (INS), gene-diet (ACSL1, ELOVL6, IRS-1, PLIN, S100A9), and gene-socioeconomic interactions.
Comparison of a Cancer Family History Collection and Risk Assessment Tool – ItRunsInMyFamily – with Risk Assessment by Health-Care Professionals
Authors: Ritchie Jordon B. , Welch Brandon M. , Allen Caitlin G. , Frey Lewis J. , Morrison Heath , Schiffman Joshua D. , Alekseyenko Alexander V. , Dean Brian , Hughes Halbert Chanita , Bellcross Cecelia
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Primary care providers (PCPs) and oncologists lack time and training to appropriately identify patients at increased risk for hereditary cancer using family health history (FHx) and clinical practice guideline (CPG) criteria. We built a tool, “ItRunsInMyFamily” (ItRuns) that automates FHx collection and risk assessment using CPGs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ItRuns by measuring the level of concordance in referral patterns for genetic counseling/testing (GC/GT) between the CPGs as applied by the tool and genetic counselors (GCs), in comparison to oncologists and PCPs. The extent to which non-GCs are discordant with CPGs is a gap that health information technology, such as ItRuns, can help close to facilitate the identification of individuals at risk for hereditary cancer. Methods: We curated 18 FHx cases and surveyed GCs and non-GCs (oncologists and PCPs) to assess concordance with ItRuns CPG criteria for referring patients for GC/GT. Percent agreement was used to describe concordance, and logistic regression to compare providers and the tool’s concordance with CPG criteria. Results: GCs had the best overall concordance with the CPGs used in ItRuns at 82.2%, followed by oncologists with 66.0% and PCPs with 60.6%. GCs were significantly more likely to concur with CPGs (OR = 4.04, 95% CI = 3.35–4.89) than non-GCs. All providers had higher concordance with CPGs for FHx cases that met the criteria for genetic counseling/testing than for cases that did not. Discussion/Conclusion: The risk assessment provided by ItRuns was highly concordant with that of GC’s, particularly for at-risk individuals. The use of such technology-based tools improves efficiency and can lead to greater numbers of at-risk individuals accessing genetic counseling, testing, and mutation-based interventions to improve health.
Reconstruction of Scalp Anterior Hairline with Tissue Expansion and Skin Flap
Authors: Ferreira Renato de Azevedo , Contin Leticia Arsie , Rocha Vanessa Barreto , Calil José Augusto
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Cutaneous defects involving the frontal region and anterior hairline of the scalp can result from congenital or acquired conditions. The negative esthetic impact can cause disturbances in the psychic and social sphere of the patient, causing problems in interpersonal relationships and in the body image itself. The use of skin expanders is usually effective in this region due to the bone base providing support and stability for its use. Case Report: We describe the case of a 64-year-old woman submitted to reconstruction of the anterior hairline of the scalp due to scar sequelae after coronal rhytidoplasty followed by pustular erosive dermatosis. We used tissue expansion (50 mL of saline per week until it reached 300 mL) and advancement flap. Discussion/Conclusion: Scalp reconstruction also includes vascularized soft tissue coverage, acceptable cosmetic appearance, and minimal morbidity for the donor area. The correction of scalp scars must obey 2 basic principles: tissue similarity and natural capillary pattern (direction, angle, capillary growth, and proper capillary line design). Tissue expansion and skin flap techniques can successfully correct defects in extensive scarring alopecia such as in the presented case.
Participación en medios y TIC: intereses y expectativas de niños y niñas
Authors: Lafaurie-Molin Andrea , López-Ordosgoitia Rocío , Giraldo-Cadavid Diana Alexandra , Aristizábal-García Diana Marcela
Published: December 2021

(analítico)La presencia de medios análogos y digitales en la vida de los niños, niñas y adolescentes redimensiona la discusión sobre participación infantil, centrándola en lo que ocurre en las pantallas. Realizamos un estudio cualitativo de corte descriptivo con 75 niños, niñas y adolescentes, de 7 a 14 años, de tres ciudades (Barranquilla, Cali y Bogotá). Los resultados indican que los niños, niñas y adolescentes tienen formas complejas y diversas de pensar la participación, que superan las divisiones, escalas y prescripciones adultas e institucionales, para incluir acciones de ocio, socialización y consumo cultural. Se trata de una participación heterogénea, convergente y multiplataforma que incluye actividades como generar contenidos, dar likes, hacer suscripciones, navegar, buscar tareas o simplemente ver vídeos, fotos, jugar, divertirse y socializar, mostrando intereses, subjetividades y formas de socialización infantiles en medios y TIC.
Palabras clave:  Participación infantil, TIC, infancia, plataformas virtuales, interacción virtual, comunicación virtual, ecosistema mediático, participaciónconvergente, participación multiplataforma.
Incidência e mortalidade por câncer de mama e do colo do útero em um município brasileiro
Authors: Ferreira Maria do Carmo , Vale Diama Bhadra , Barros Marilisa Berti de Azevedo
Published: December 2021

OBJETIVOS Analisar a magnitude das mudanças na incidência e mortalidade por câncer do colo do útero (CCU) e câncer de mama (CM) em Campinas (SP) entre os quinquênios 1991–1995 e 2010–2014. MÉTODOS Os dados sobre câncer foram obtidos do Registro de Câncer de Base Populacional de Campinas e os dados sobre óbitos do Sistema de Informação de Mortalidade do Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde. Foram calculadas taxas de incidência e de mortalidade padronizadas por idade pelo método direto, com os respectivos intervalos de confiança de 95%. Mensurou-se a magnitude das mudanças por meio da razão de taxas (RT). RESULTADOS Entre os períodos estudados, houve aumento de três vezes na taxa de detecção do CCU in situ (RT = 3,03; IC95% 2,64–3,47) e de 5 vezes para o CM in situ (RT = 5,23; IC95% 4,98–5,50). A proporção de casos de CM in situ em relação ao total de casos de CM aumentou de 3,31% para 11,05%. A taxa de incidência do CCU invasivo declinou em 57% (RT = 0,43; IC95% 0,40–0,47), e a do CM invasivo aumentou em 40% (RT = 1,40; IC95% 1,33–1,47). A taxa de mortalidade do CCU caiu em 58% (RT = 0,42; IC95% 0,32–0,56), e a do CM em 15% (RT = 0,85; IC95% 0,82–0,89). CONCLUSÃO A incidência de carcinomas in situ de CCU e CM aumentou nessas quase duas décadas. A taxa de carcinoma invasivo do CCU diminuiu, e a do CM aumentou. A mortalidade pelos dois cânceres foi reduzida. Observar essas alterações é útil para avaliar o impacto das ações realizadas no período e planejar ações futuras.
Thraulodes Ulmer 1920 (Ephemeroptera: Leptophlebiidae) from Espírito Santo state, Brazil
Authors: DA SILVA RAYMUNDO THAYNA , ALMEIDA TAÍS BARBOSA , NASCIMENTO JEANE M. C. DO , SALLES FREDERICO FALCÃO
Published: December 2021

Based on material collected during the past 10 years in the State of Espírito Santo and adjacent areas in Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil, we identified three species of the genus Thraulodes: T. itatiajanus Traver & Edmunds, for which we present new records and description of the female imago; T. luisae Souto, Da-Silva & Nessimian, first recorded for the state and for which we describe the nymphal stage; and T. alegre sp. nov., described based on male and female imago. The main diagnostic characteristics of the new species are: color of abdominal terga I–VI whitish translucent, terga II–VI with subrectangular dark brown mark near posterior margin and with midway spot; styliger plate triangular and whitish; penes light yellow, with lateral pouch and penes spines long and tapered, with robust bases.
El Niño–Southern Oscillation and the Transatlantic Slave Trade
Authors: Turner IV William , Nathan Terrence R.
Published: December 2021

The relationship between El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the transatlantic slave trade (TAST) is examined using the Slave Voyages dataset and several reconstructed ENSO indices. The ENSO indices are used as a proxy for West African rainfall and temperature. In the Sahel, the El Niño (warm) phase of ENSO is associated with less rainfall and warmer temperatures, whereas the La Niña (cold) phase of ENSO is associated with more rainfall and cooler temperatures. The association between ENSO and the TAST is weak but statistically significant at a 2-yr lag. In this case, El Niño (drier and warmer) years are associated with a decrease in the export of enslaved Africans. The response of the TAST to El Niño is explained in terms of the societal response to agricultural stresses brought on by less rainfall and warmer temperatures. ENSO-induced changes to the TAST are briefly discussed in light of climate-induced movements of peoples in centuries past and the drought-induced movement of peoples in the Middle East today.

Significance Statement

The transatlantic slave trade was driven by economic and political forces, subject to the vagaries of the weather; it spanned two hemispheres and four continents and lasted more than 400 years. In this study we show that El Niño–Southern Oscillation, and its proxy association with West African rainfall and temperature, are significantly associated with the number of enslaved Africans that were transported from West Africa to the Americas. Lessons learned from the effects of weather and climate on the transatlantic slave trade reverberate today: extreme weather and climate change will continue to catalyze and amplify human conflict and migrations.
Free vibration analysis of industry-driven woven fiber laminated carbon/epoxy composite beams by experimental and numerical approach
Authors: Das Priyadarshi , Sahu Shishir K
Published: December 2021

The free vibration study of industry-driven woven fibre laminated carbon/epoxy composite beam is addressed through experimental and numerical modal analysis in the present research work. The experimental modal analysis is performed using the vibration Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analyser and the natural frequencies are realized in the PULSE environment. A linear beam model is simulated in ABAQUS finite element (FE) software, adopting a solid deformable 8-nodded element with five degrees of freedom (DOF) per node from the ABAQUS library for numerical computation of natural frequencies. A satisfactory agreement is achieved between the experimental and numerical results. The effects of ply-orientation, number of plies, lamination scheme and aspect ratios with different boundary conditions on the natural frequencies are studied. The results confirmed that the predicted vibration characteristics of laminated composite beams are sensitive to the adopted parameters for the investigation. The present study will help to understand the dynamic behaviour for laminated composite beams and serve as an experimental benchmark result within the frequency domain.
Copolymerization of palm oil with sulfur using inverse vulcanization to boost the palm oil industry
Authors: Abbasi Amin , Yahya Wan Zaireen Nisa , Nasef Mohamed Mahmoud , Moniruzzaman Muhammad , Ghumman Ali Shaan Manzoor
Published: December 2021

Nowadays, most of the world’s palm oil is being produced in Malaysia and Indonesia; however, the demand for this vegetable oil as an edible oil is declining in many countries since consuming palm oil in excess can result in serious health problems. Consequently, finding new applications such as the production of bio-based polymers to make use of this cheap and abundant vegetable oil seems necessary. Herein, we report the copolymerization of palm oil with sulfur with different feed ratios via inverse vulcanization. The copolymers are then characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction analysis. The results confirmed the formation of the polymers and their stability against depolymerization. Altogether, the obtained sulfur-palm oil copolymers showed great properties such as thermal stability up to 230°C under a nitrogen atmosphere and rubbery properties at room temperature. Although the Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) thermograms had previously confirmed the high conversion of elemental sulfur into the polymeric structure by comparing the initial sulfur content and the final polysulfide content in the polymer, some unreacted elemental sulfur was also observed in the final product. Sulfur-palm oil (S-Palm oil) is a new green polymer that helps to find a new use for palm oil as a big industry as well as sulfur which is underutilized and left in stockpile as a byproduct in gas and petroleum refineries.
A clinical laboratory–developed LSC17 stemness score assay for rapid risk assessment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Ng Stanley W. K. , Murphy Tracy , King Ian , Zhang Tong , Mah Michelle , Lu Zhibin , Stickle Natalie , Ibrahimova Narmin , Arruda Andrea , Mitchell Amanda , Mai Ming , He Rong , Madala Bindu Swapna , Viswanatha David S. , Dick John E. , Chan Steven , Virtanen Carl , Minden Mark D. , Mercer Timothy , Stockley Tracy , Wang Jean C. Y.
Published: December 2021

Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are linked to relapse in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The LSC17 gene expression score robustly captures LSC stemness properties in AML and can be used to predict survival outcomes and response to therapy, enabling risk-adapted, upfront treatment approaches. The LSC17 score was developed and validated in a research setting. To enable widespread use of the LSC17 score in clinical decision making, we established a laboratory-developed test (LDT) for the LSC17 score that can be deployed broadly in clinical molecular diagnostic laboratories. We extensively validated the LSC17 LDT in a College of American Pathologists/Clinical Laboratory Improvements Act (CAP/CLIA)-certified laboratory, determining specimen requirements, a synthetic control, and performance parameters for the assay. Importantly, we correlated values from the LSC17 LDT to clinical outcome in a reference cohort of patients with AML, establishing a median assay value that can be used for clinical risk stratification of individual patients with newly diagnosed AML. The assay was established in a second independent CAP/CLIA-certified laboratory, and its technical performance was validated using an independent cohort of patient samples, demonstrating that the LSC17 LDT can be readily implemented in other settings. This study enables the clinical use of the LSC17 score for upfront risk-adapted management of patients with AML.
Evolution of reproductive traits have no apparent life-history associated cost in populations of Drosophila melanogaster selected for cold shock resistance
Authors: Singh Karan , Kochar Ekta , Gahlot Prakhar , Bhatt Karan , Prasad Nagaraj Guru
Published: December 2021

Background

In insect species likeDrosophila melanogaster, evolution of increased resistance or evolution of particular traits under specific environmental conditions can lead to energy trade-offs with other crucial life-history traits. Adaptation to cold stress can, in principle, involve modification of reproductive traits and physiological responses. Reproductive traits carry a substantial cost; and therefore, the evolution of reproductive traits in response to cold stress could potentially lead to trade-offs with other life-history traits. We have successfully selected replicate populations ofDrosophila melanogasterfor increased resistance to cold shock for over 33 generations. In these populations, the ability to recover from cold shock, mate, and lay fertile eggs 24 h post cold shock is under selection. These populations have evolved a suite of reproductive traits including increased egg viability, male mating ability, and siring ability post cold shock. These populations also show elevated mating rate both with and without cold shock. In the present study, we quantified a suite of life-history related traits in these populations to assess if evolution of cold shock resistance in these populations comes at a cost of other life-history traits.

Results

To assess life-history cost, we measured egg viability, mating frequency, longevity, lifetime fecundity, adult mortality, larva to adult development time, larvae to adults survival, and body weight in the cold shock selected populations and their controls under two treatments (a) post cold chock and (b) without cold shock. Twenty-four hours post cold shock, the selected population had significantly higher egg viability and mating frequency compared to control populations indicating that they have higher cold shock resistance. Selected populations had significantly longer pre-adult development time compared to their control populations. Females from the selected populations had higher body weight compared to their control populations. However, we did not find any significant difference between the selected and control populations in longevity, lifetime fecundity, adult mortality, larvae to adults survival, and male body weight under the cold chock or no cold shock treatments.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that cold shock selected populations have evolved higher mating frequency and egg viability. However, there is no apparent life-history associated cost with the evolution of egg viability and reproductive performances under the cold stress condition.
Comparative transcriptomic and metabolic profiling provides insight into the mechanism by which the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA enhances salt stress sensitivity in wheat seedlings
Authors: Yue Jieyu , Wang Yingjie , Jiao Jinlan , Wang Huazhong
Published: December 2021

Background

Salt stress hinders plant growth and production around the world. Autophagy induced by salt stress helps plants improve their adaptability to salt stress. However, the underlying mechanism behind this adaptability remains unclear. To obtain deeper insight into this phenomenon, combined metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses were used to explore the coexpression of differentially expressed-metabolite (DEM) and gene (DEG) between control and salt-stressed wheat roots and leaves in the presence or absence of the added autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA).

Results

The results indicated that 3-MA addition inhibited autophagy, increased ROS accumulation, damaged photosynthesis apparatus and impaired the tolerance of wheat seedlings to NaCl stress. A total of 14,759 DEGs and 554 DEMs in roots and leaves of wheat seedlings were induced by salt stress. DEGs were predominantly enriched in cellular amino acid catabolic process, response to external biotic stimulus, regulation of the response to salt stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS) biosynthetic process, regulation of response to osmotic stress, ect. The DEMs were mostly associated with amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, carbapenem biosynthesis, and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis. Further analysis identified some critical genes (gene involved in the oxidative stress response, gene encoding transcription factor (TF) and gene involved in the synthesis of metabolite such as alanine, asparagine, aspartate, glutamate, glutamine, 4-aminobutyric acid, abscisic acid, jasmonic acid, ect.) that potentially participated in a complex regulatory network in the wheat response to NaCl stress. The expression of the upregulated DEGs and DEMs were higher, and the expression of the down-regulated DEGs and DEMs was lower in 3-MA-treated plants under NaCl treatment.

Conclusion

3-MA enhanced the salt stress sensitivity of wheat seedlings by inhibiting the activity of the roots and leaves, inhibiting autophagy in the roots and leaves, increasing the content of both H2O2 and O2•—, damaged photosynthesis apparatus and changing the transcriptome and metabolome of salt-stressed wheat seedlings.
Genome-wide identification of PME genes, evolution and expression analyses in soybean (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Wang Liang , Gao Yingqi , Wang Songming , Zhang Qiqi , Yang Shouping
Published: December 2021

Background

Pectin methylesterase (PME) is one of pectin-modifying enzyme that affects the pectin homeostasis in cell wall and regulates plant growth and diverse biological processes. The PME genes have been well explored and characterized in different plants. Nevertheless, systematic research on the soybean (Glycine max L.) PME genes remain lacking.

Results

We identified 127 Glycine max PME genes (GmPME) from the soybean Wm82.a2.v1 genome, which unevenly distributed on 20 soybean chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis classified the GmPME genes into four clades (Group I, Group II, Group III and Group IV). GmPME gene members in the same clades displayed similar gene structures and motif patterns. The gene family expansion analysis demonstrated that segmental duplication was the major driving force to acquire novel GmPME genes compared to the tandem duplication events. Further synteny and evolution analyses showed that the GmPME gene family experienced strong purifying selective pressures during evolution. The cis-element analyses together with the expression patterns of the GmPME genes in various tissues suggested that the GmPME genes broadly participate in distinct biological processes and regulate soybean developments. Importantly, based on the transcriptome data and quantitative RT-PCR validations, we examined the potential roles of the GmPME genes in regulating soybean flower bud development and seed germination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we provided a comprehensive characterization of the PME genes in soybean, and our work laid a foundation for the functional study of GmPME genes in the future.
Molecular cytogenetics for a wheat–Aegilops geniculata 3Mg alien addition line with resistance to stripe rust and powdery mildew
Authors: Wang Yongfu , Cheng Xiaofang , Yang Xiaoying , Wang Changyou , Zhang Hong , Deng Pingchuan , Liu Xinlun , Chen Chunhuan , Ji Wanquan , Wang Yajuan
Published: December 2021

Background

Aegilops geniculataRoth is closely related to common wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) and is a valuable genetic resource for improvement of wheat.

Results

In this study, the W19513 line was derived from the BC1F10progeny of a cross between wheat ‘Chinese Spring’ andAe. geniculataSY159. Cytological examination showed that W19513 contained 44 chromosomes. Twenty-two bivalents were formed at the first meiotic metaphase I in the pollen mother cellsand the chromosomes were evenly distributed to opposite poles at meiotic anaphase I. Genomic in situ hybridization demonstrated that W19513 carried a pair of alien chromosomes from the M genome. Fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed detection of variation in chromosomes 4A and 6B. Functional molecular marker analysis using expressed sequence tag–sequence-tagged site and PCR-based landmark unique gene primers revealed that the alien gene belonged to the third homologous group. The marker analysis confirmed that the alien chromosome pair was 3Mg. In addition, to further explore the molecular marker specificity of chromosome 3Mg, based on the specific locus amplified fragment sequencing technique, molecular markers specific for W19513 were developed with efficiencies of up to 47.66%. The W19513 line was inoculated with the physiological race E09 of powdery mildew (Blumeria graminisf. sp.tritici) at the seedling stage and showed moderate resistance. Field inoculation with a mixture of the races CYR31, CYR32, CYR33, and CYR34 of the stripe rust fungus (Puccinia striiformisf. sp. triticii) revealed that the line W19513 showed strong resistance.

Conclusions

This study provides a foundation for use of the line W19513 in future genetic research and wheat improvement.
Remimazolam for induction of anesthesia in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis: a prospective, observational pilot study
Authors: Nakanishi Toshiyuki , Sento Yoshiki , Kamimura Yuji , Tsuji Tatsuya , Kako Eisuke , Sobue Kazuya
Published: December 2021

Background

Remimazolam, a novel benzodiazepine, has been reported to cause less hypotension than propofol during induction of anesthesia. Therefore, remimazolam might be a valuable option in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis who are considered to be the most vulnerable to hemodynamic instability. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and hemodynamic effects of remimazolam as an induction agent in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis.

Methods

This prospective, open-label, single-arm, observational pilot study was conducted in a university hospital between November 2020 and April 2021. We included 20 patients aged 65 years or older scheduled for transcatheter or surgical aortic valve replacement for severe aortic stenosis under general anesthesia. Patients were administered intravenous remimazolam infusion at 6 mg/kg/h combined with 0.25 μg/kg/min of remifentanil infusion. The primary outcome was the vasopressor dosage between the induction of anesthesia and the completion of tracheal intubation. The secondary outcomes included hemodynamic changes, bispectral index changes, and the time from the start of remimazolam infusion to loss of consciousness. We also recorded awareness during anesthesia induction and serious adverse events related to death, life-threatening events, prolonged hospitalizations, and disability due to permanent damage.

Results

Twenty patients aged 84 [79–86] (median [interquartile range]) with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status 4 were analyzed. Ephedrine 0 [0–4] mg and phenylephrine 0.1 [0–0.1] mg were administered to 14/20 patients (3 doses in 1 patient, 2 doses in 4 patients, and one dose in 9 patients). Loss of consciousness was achieved at 80 [69–86] s after the remimazolam infusion was started. The mean arterial pressure decreased gradually after loss of consciousness but recovered immediately after tracheal intubation. The bispectral index values gradually decreased and reached < 60 at 120 s after loss of consciousness. Neither awareness during induction of anesthesia nor serious adverse events, such as severe bradycardia (< 40 bpm), life-threatening arrhythmia, myocardial ischemia, or anaphylactic reactions were observed.

Conclusions

Remimazolam could be used as an induction agent with timely bolus vasopressors in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis.

Trial registration

UMIN Clinical Trials Registry, identifierUMIN000042318.
Evaluation of IL-2 and Dexamethasone intracavitary injection on the management of malignant effusion in children with solid tumors or lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Yu-Tong , Zhong Xiao-dan , Gao Yan-li , Chang Jian
Published: December 2021

Background

Currently, no available coherent management protocol exists for pediatric cancers associated with pleural effusion, ascites, and pericardial effusion. This study aimed to retrospectively present our experience in treating pediatric cancer patients with pleural effusion, ascites, and pericardial effusion using interleukin-2 (IL-2) and dexamethasone (DEX) intracavitary injections.

Methods

Between January 1st, 2008 and December 31st, 2020, medical reports of patients diagnosed with solid tumors or lymphoma were checked to identify patients diagnosed with > 2 cm pleural effusion, and/or more than grade 1 ascites, and/or more than small pericardial effusion. Patients diagnosed with effusions and treated with IL-2 and DEX were identified as being in the effusion group. Meanwhile, patients with the same primary tumors and effusions but did not receive interleukin 2 and DEX injection were reviewed and classified as the control group.

Results

Forty patients with solid tumors and 66 patients with lymphoma were further diagnosed with pleural effusion, ascites, or pericardial effusion. A total of 85 patients received IL-2 and DEX injection while the remaining 21 did not. The Kaplan Meier analysis revealed a significant difference between the two groups, with p < 0.01 for event free survival (EFS) and p < 0.01 for overall survival (OS), both of which had p < 0.01. Hazard ratio was found to be 0.344 for OS and 0.352 for EFS.

Conclusions

This retrospective study illustrates that thoracic, intraperitoneal, or pericardial intracavitary injection of DEX plus IL-2 can be an effective and safe treatment for pediatric cancers with pleural effusion, ascites, and pericardial effusion.
Evaluation of parental knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic use in acute upper respiratory tract infections in children under 18 years of age: a cross-sectional study in Turkey
Authors: Albayrak Aslınur , Karakaş Nazmi Mutlu , Karahalil Bensu
Published: December 2021

Background

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common in children. Antibiotics still continue to be prescribed although most URTIs are of viral origin. This is inappropriate use and this unnecessary administration contributes or may cause antibiotic resistance. The problem of unnecessary antibiotic use among children is a concern for antibiotic resistance in low- and middle-income developing countries. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of parents of children with upper respiratory tract infections regarding antibiotic use and their antibiotic administration practices in a tertiary care hospital in Turkey.

Methods

Our study is a cross-sectional survey study. It was carried out between 14 December 2020 and 1 April 2021 for parents over 18 years of age with a child under 18 years’ old who applied to the general pediatrics outpatient clinics of Gazi University Faculty of Medicine Hospital Department of Pediatrics.

Results

Five hundred fifty-four parents responded to the questionnaire (93.2% rate of response). A total of 15.7% of parents stated to use antibiotics in any child with fever. 37% of parents believed that antibiotics could cure infections caused by viruses. 6.3% of parents declared that they put pressure on pediatricians to prescribe antibiotics. While 28% of the parents who thought that the use of inappropriate antibiotics would not change the effect and resistance of the treatment, 41% thought that new antibiotics could be developed continuously. 85.6% of the parents stated that they never gave their children non-prescription antibiotics when they had a high fever. 80.9% of them declared that they never used past antibiotics in the presence of a new infection.

Conclusion

According to the results of our study of parents’ lack of knowledge about antibiotics in Turkey, though generally it shows proper attitude and practices. It shows that some of the restrictions imposed by the National Action Plan are partially working. However, it is still necessary to continue to inform parents, pediatricians and pharmacists about the use of antibiotics, and to be more sensitive about the prescribing of antibiotics, and if necessary, sanctions should be imposed by the state in order to prevent unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions.
Accuracy of image-free navigation in intraoperative leg length change from total hip arthroplasty using evaluations from 2D and 3D measurements
Authors: Tone Shine , Hasegawa Masahiro , Naito Yohei , Wakabayashi Hiroki , Sudo Akihiro
Published: December 2021

Background

Leg length discrepancy is one of the most common problems after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy of image-free navigation in intraoperative leg length change (LLC) using evaluations from anteroposterior radiographs (2D measurement) and 3D bone models using CT data (3D measurement).

Methods

One hundred THAs with cementless cups and stems were performed using an image-free navigation system in our hospital. We evaluated the accuracy of image-free navigation based on LLC from 2D and 3D measurements. Furthermore, we also investigated error in absolute value and correlations between 2D and 3D measurements in LLC.

Results

The accuracy of image-free navigation based on 2D measurement was 94% within 5 mm and 76% within 3 mm. The accuracy of image-free navigation based on 3D measurement was 92% within 5 mm and 81% within 3 mm. The error in absolute value in LLC between 2D and 3D measurements was 1.7 ± 1.4 mm (range, 0 to 6 mm). A strong correlation was observed between 2D and 3D measurements in the LLC.

Conclusions

In the present study, good accuracy of image-free navigation in intraoperative LLC was confirmed for both evaluation methods from 2D and 3D measurements. In addition, the error in absolute value in the LLC between 2D and 3D measurements was very small, and we observed a strong correlation between 2D and 3D measurements. Based on these results, evaluation of LLC from radiographs was considered sufficient if radiographs can be taken accurately.
Sternal swelling presenting as tuberculosis: a case report
Authors: Rajan John , Bizanti Khaled
Published: December 2021

Background

Tuberculosis continues to be a worldwide public health problem. Despite the noted gradual decline in tuberculosis case rates in the UK, clinicians should still be aware of these unusual presentations. Sternal tuberculosis is an uncommon form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and it can initially be a diagnostic challenge for paediatricians. These lesions can present with nonspecific signs and symptoms that may mimic malignancy.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 3-year-old African descent girl with a sternal swelling that was confirmed to be Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA on gastric aspirate. The child had additional radiological investigations that corresponded accordingly. She was started on quadruple antituberculosis therapy with good outcome.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis sternal abscess is as rare finding, especially in developed countries where tuberculosis is not endemic. Tuberculosis may not always present with pulmonary symptoms in children. There should be a high suspicion of tuberculosis, especially in immigrant population presenting with unusual presentations. Our aim is to increase awareness around atypical presentations of tuberculosis in children. Although, tuberculosis is endemic to underdeveloped countries, clinicians should still be aware of presentations in view of current global migration.
Solitary pulmonary nodule malignancy predictive models applicable to routine clinical practice: a systematic review
Authors: Senent-Valero Marina , Librero Julián , Pastor-Valero María
Published: December 2021

Background

Solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN) is a common finding in routine clinical practice when performing chest imaging tests. The vast majority of these nodules are benign, and only a small proportion are malignant. The application of predictive models of nodule malignancy in routine clinical practice would help to achieve better diagnostic management of SPN. The present systematic review was carried out with the purpose of critically assessing studies aimed at developing predictive models of solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN) malignancy from SPN incidentally detected in routine clinical practice.

Methods

We performed a search of available scientific literature until October 2020 in Pubmed, SCOPUS and Cochrane Central databases. The inclusion criteria were observational studies carried out in low-risk population from 35 years old onwards aimed at constructing predictive models of malignancy of pulmonary solitary nodule detected incidentally in routine clinical practice. Studies had to be published in peer-reviewed journals, either in Spanish, Portuguese or English. Exclusion criteria were non-human studies, or predictive models based in high-risk populations, or models based on computational approaches. Exclusion criteria were non-human studies, or predictive models based in high-risk populations, or models based on computational approaches (such as radiomics). We used The Transparent Reporting of a multivariable Prediction model for Individual Prognosis Or Diagnosis (TRIPOD) statement, to describe the type of predictive model included in each study, and The Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool (PROBAST) to evaluate the quality of the selected articles.

Results

A total of 186 references were retrieved, and after applying the exclusion/inclusion criteria, 15 articles remained for the final review. All studies analysed clinical and radiological variables. The most frequent independent predictors of SPN malignancy were, in order of frequency, age, diameter, spiculated edge, calcification and smoking history. Variables such as race, SPN growth rate, emphysema, fibrosis, apical scarring and exposure to asbestos, uranium and radon were not analysed by the majority of the studies. All studies were classified as high risk of bias due to inadequate study designs, selection bias, insufficient population follow-up and lack of external validation, compromising their applicability for clinical practice.

Conclusions

The studies included have been shown to have methodological weaknesses compromising the clinical applicability of the evaluated SPN malignancy predictive models and their potential influence on clinical decision-making for the SPN diagnostic management.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42020161559
Clinical effects with customized brackets and CAD/CAM technology: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Hegele Julia , Seitz Lena , Claussen Cora , Baumert Uwe , Sabbagh Hisham , Wichelhaus Andrea
Published: December 2021

Objective

Nowadays, CAD/CAM technologies enrich orthodontics in several ways. While they are commonly used for diagnoses and treatment planning, they can also be applied to create individualized bracket systems. The purpose of this prospective quasi-randomized study was to evaluate the clinical efficiency of a customized bracket system and its comparison with directly bonded conventional self-ligating bracket treatment.

Materials and methods

Altogether 38 patients were separated into two groups, treated either with direct bonded self-ligating brackets (Damon, Ormco, USA) or with indirect bonded customized CAD/CAM brackets (Insignia™, Ormco, USA). Overall treatment time, number of treatment appointments, number of lost or repositioned brackets, number of arch wires and wire bends, Little Irregularity Index, cephalometric analyses and ABO scores were compared. Superimpositions of the virtual set-ups and the treatment results of the CAD/CAM group were performed to evaluate the clinical realization of the treatment planning.

Results

No differences between both treatment groups were found concerning overall treatment time, number of appointments and number of archwire bends. Bonding failures occurred more often using the CAD/CAM system. Indirectly bonded brackets did not have to be repositioned as often as directly bonded brackets. Treatment results with both systems were similar concerning their effects on the reduction of ABO scores. The number of used archwires was higher in the CAD/CAM group. Treatment with both systems led to further proclination of the incisors. Proclination in the lower jaw was greater than proclination in the upper jaw, and there was a statistically significant difference between the two treatment systems. Comparing the treatment results with the virtual set-ups, mesial positions were met best, followed by vertical positions. Transversal positions showed the greatest discrepancies. Concerning angles, values of angulation showed greatest accordance to the virtual set-up, while values of inclinations showed greatest discrepancies.

Conclusion

In comparison with a direct bonded self-ligating bracket system the use of indirect bonded customized CAD/CAM brackets showed only minor influence on treatment efficiency and treatment outcomes. Transversal expansion, deep bite correction, expression of torque and anchorage loss remain challenges in the treatment with straight-wire appliances.

Trial registration DRKS, DRKS00024350. Registered 15 February 2021, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00024350.
MIRS: an imaging spectrometer for the MMX mission
Authors: Barucci Maria Antonietta , Reess Jean-Michel , Bernardi Pernelle , Doressoundiram Alain , Fornasier Sonia , Le Du Michel , Iwata Takahiro , Nakagawa Hiromu , Nakamura Tomoki , André Yves , Aoki Shohei , Arai Takehiko , Baldit Elisa , Beck Pierre , Buey Jean-Tristan , Canalias Elisabet , Castelnau Matthieu , Charnoz Sebastien , Chaussidon Marc , Chapron Fréderic , Ciarletti Valerie , Delbo Marco , Dubois Bruno , Gauffre Stephane , Gautier Thomas , Genda Hidenori , Hassen-Khodja Rafik , Hervet Gilles , Hyodo Ryuki , Imbert Christian , Imamura Takeshi , Jorda Laurent , Kameda Shingo , Kouach Driss , Kouyama Toru , Kuroda Takeshi , Kurokawa Hiroyuki , Lapaw Laurent , Lasue Jeremie , Le Deit Laetitia , Ledot Aurélien , Leyrat Cedric , Le Ruyet Bertrand , Matsuoka Moe , Merlin Frederic , Miyamoto Hideaki , Moynier Frederic , Nguyen Tuong Napoleon , Ogohara Kazunori , Osawa Takahito , Parisot Jérôme , Pistre Laurie , Quertier Benjamin , Raymond Sean N. , Rocard Francis , Sakanoi Takeshi , Sato Takao M. , Sawyer Eric , Tache Fériel , Trémolières Sylvain , Tsuchiya Fuminori , Vernazza Pierre , Zeganadin Didier
Published: December 2021

The MMX infrared spectrometer (MIRS) is an imaging spectrometer onboard MMX JAXA mission. MMX (Martian Moon eXploration) is scheduled to be launched in 2024 with sample return to Earth in 2029. MIRS is built at LESIA-Paris Observatory in collaboration with four other French laboratories, collaboration and financial support of CNES and close collaboration with JAXA and MELCO. The instrument is designed to fully accomplish MMX’s scientific and measurement objectives. MIRS will remotely provide near-infrared spectral maps of Phobos and Deimos containing compositional diagnostic spectral features that will be used to analyze the surface composition and to support the sampling site selection. MIRS will also study Mars atmosphere, in particular spatial and temporal changes such as clouds, dust and water vapor.

Graphical Abstract