bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of a unilateral muscle transplantation on the muscle fiber type and the myhc isoform content in unoperated hind limb slow and fast muscles of the inbred Lewis rats.
Authors: Zachařová G , Vadászová A , Smerdu V , Asmussen G , Soukup T
Published: August 2022

To reveal the effect of foreign innervation and altered thyroid status on fiber type composition and the myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoform expression in the rat slow soleus (SOL) and fast extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles, a method of heterochronous isotransplantation was developed. In this experimental procedure, the SOL or EDL muscles of young inbred Lewis rats are grafted either into the host EDL or SOL muscles of adult rats of the same strain with normal or experimentally altered thyroid status. To estimate the extent of fiber type transitions in the transplanted muscles, the SOL and EDL muscle from the unoperated leg and unoperated muscles from the operated leg could be legitimately used as controls, but only when the experimental procedure itself does not affect these muscles. To verify this assumption, we have compared the fiber type composition and the MyHC isoform content of unoperated contralateral SOL and EDL muscles and ipsilateral unoperated SOL muscle of experimental rats after unilateral isotransplantation into the host EDL muscle with corresponding muscles of the naive rats of the same age and strain. We provide compelling evidence that the unilateral heterochronous isotransplantation has no significant effect on the fiber type composition and the MyHC isoform content of unoperated muscles of experimental animals. Hence, these muscles can be used as controls in our grafting experiments.
Cuidados Paliativos una especialidad en Ecuador
Authors: Vallejo Martinez Mariana Concepción
Published: August 2022

Los cuidados paliativos (CP) o medicina paliativa, especialidad nueva y creciente con un papel muy definido e importante; ha cosechado algunos éxitos, pero tiene que responder satisfactoriamente a nuevos retos para sobrevivir, prosperar y lograr convertirse en una aliada de la medicina curativa y poder interactuar al mismo tiempo para mejorar la atención a los pacientes y familia que se enfrentan a enfermedades complejas como el cáncer. Actualmente es mucho lo que se sabe sobre CP, pero este conocimiento no está beneficiando a las personas que lo necesitan debido a la escases o nula formación académica. Para que los CP se incorporen a un sistema de salud es necesario establecer cuatro componentes fundamentales:

1. Políticas. - Establecer políticas que integren los CP en el plan de salud nacional.

2. Disponibilidad de fármacos. - Mejorar la disponibilidad y acceso a los opioides que permita aumentar el cupo de opioides de la Junta Internacional de Fiscalización de Estupefacientes (JIFE) del país.

3. Educación. Convencer al público, comunidad, profesionales sanitarios, y a los políticos, incluir los programas de CP en pregrado y posgrado.

4. Implementación. Crear nuevos puestos de CP a dedicación completa, y dotar de la infraestructura para centros de referencia de excelencia, incluyendo cuidado domiciliario que se vayan replicando.

Todo esto permitirá hacer una estimación de la necesidad para el adecuado desarrollo de los CP.Este editorial tiene como propósito dar a conocer el desarrollo de los CP en el Ecuador desde la informalidad hasta la especialidad médica de posgrado.
Control of allergic rhinitis in four latin american countries: Rinola study
Authors: Silva Diana L , de Barayazarra Susana , Valero Antonio , Garcia Elizabeth , Uriarte Silvia , Peñaranda Augusto , Chapman Edgardo , Garcia Maria B , Ocampo Jaime , Valencia Viviana , Moreno Sergio , Corelli Silvana , Lopez Belkis , Ramírez Luis F , Pérez Lucía Cecilia , Jares Edgardo , Serrano Carlos D
Published: August 2022

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) affects up to 40% of the general population, there are large-scale multicenter studies that have described its characteristics and few studies have focused on studying patients with AR in Latin America (LA).

Methodology

A cross-sectional, descriptive, multicenter study was carried out in four LA countries (Colombia, Argentina, Cuba and Peru). Patients diagnosed with AR between November 2017 and June 2020 were included. Sociodemographic and clinical data, sensitization profile and current treatment were collected in the Electronic Data Collection (BDClinic). Patients also filled out this questionnaires: Rhinitis Control Assessment Test (RCAT), Reflexive Total Nasal Symptom Score (rTNSS), Modified ARIA Criteria for AR Severity (mARIA) and ESPRINT-15. Risk of bias was examined by applying the STROBE checklist.

Results

The study included 412 patients. Median age was 25 years (15–39). Two hundred and twenty four (54.3%) were women. Nasal obstruction was present in 303 (73.5%). Three hundred and thirty four (81%) had a persistent AR. One hundred and twenty one (31.3%) had associated asthma. The most frequently positive skin tests were: Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus in 365 (88.6%) and Dermatophagoides farinae in 331 (81.3%). Four hundred and eleven patients (99%) reported that AR affected their quality of life. The median score of ESPRINT-15 was 1.87 (0.93–2.93), The mean values of RCAT and rTNSS were 19.01 (±4.59) and 5.4 (±2.97) respectively. Two hundred and fifty (60%) were receiving only oral antihistamines. Physicians decided to start nasal corticosteroids in 296 (71.8%). Only seventy patients (16.9%) were receiving immunotherapy.

Conclusion

These findings confirm that most of patients with AR in LA have a persistent disease with a negative impact on quality of life. Dust mites are the main sensitizers. These findings will allow to know the true impact of AR and can lead to a better disease management.
3D-printed collagen/silk fibroin/secretome derived from bFGF-pretreated HUCMSCs scaffolds enhanced therapeutic ability in canines traumatic brain injury model
Authors: Liu Xiaoyin , Zhang Guijun , Wei Pan , Hao Lifang , Zhong Lin , Zhong Kunhon , Liu Chang , Liu Peng , Feng Qingbo , Wang Shan , Zhang Jianyong , Tian Rui , Zhou Liangxue
Published: August 2022

The regeneration of brain tissue poses a great challenge because of the limited self-regenerative capabilities of neurons after traumatic brain injury (TBI). For this purpose, 3D-printed collagen/silk fibroin/secretome derived from human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (HUCMSCs) pretreated with bFGF scaffolds (3D-CS-bFGF-ST) at a low temperature were prepared in this study. From an in vitro perspective, 3D-CS-bFGF-ST showed good biodegradation, appropriate mechanical properties, and good biocompatibility. In regard to vivo, during the tissue remodelling processes of TBI, the regeneration of brain tissues was obviously faster in the 3D-CS-bFGF-ST group than in the other two groups (3D-printed collagen/silk fibroin/secretome derived from human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (3D-CS-ST) group and TBI group) by motor assay, histological analysis, and immunofluorescence assay. Satisfactory regeneration was achieved in the two 3D-printed scaffold-based groups at 6 months postsurgery, while the 3D-CS-bFGF-ST group showed a better outcome than the 3D-CS-ST group.
Mitochondrial autophagy in the sleeping brain
Authors: Mauri Sofia , Favaro Mariavittoria , Bernardo Greta , Mazzotta Gabriella M. , Ziviani Elena
Published: August 2022

A significant percentage of the mitochondrial mass is replaced on a daily basis via mechanisms of mitochondrial quality control. Through mitophagy (a selective type of autophagy that promotes mitochondrial proteostasis) cells keep a healthy pool of mitochondria, and prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. Furthermore, mitophagy helps adapting to the metabolic demand of the cells, which changes on a daily basis.

Core components of the mitophagy process are PINK1 and Parkin, which mutations are linked to Parkinson’s Disease. The crucial role of PINK1/Parkin pathway during stress-induced mitophagy has been extensively studied in vitro in different cell types. However, recent advances in the field allowed discovering that mitophagy seems to be only slightly affected in PINK1 KO mice and flies, putting into question the physiological relevance of this pathway in vivo in the whole organism. Indeed, several cell-specific PINK1/Parkin-independent mitophagy pathways have been recently discovered, which appear to be activated under physiological conditions such as those that promote mitochondrial proteome remodeling during differentiation or in response to specific physiological stimuli.

In this Mini Review we want to summarize the recent advances in the field, and add another level of complexity by focusing attention on a potentially important aspect of mitophagy regulation: the implication of the circadian clock. Recent works showed that the circadian clock controls many aspects of mitochondrial physiology, including mitochondrial morphology and dynamic, respiratory activity, and ATP synthesis. Furthermore, one of the essential functions of sleep, which is controlled by the clock, is the clearance of toxic metabolic compounds from the brain, including ROS, via mechanisms of proteostasis. Very little is known about a potential role of the clock in the quality control mechanisms that maintain the mitochondrial repertoire healthy during sleep/wake cycles. More importantly, it remains completely unexplored whether (dys)function of mitochondrial proteostasis feedbacks to the circadian clockwork.
Ethanolic extract of Caesalpinia bonduc seeds triggers yeast metacaspase-dependent apoptotic pathway mediated by mitochondrial dysfunction through enhanced production of calcium and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in Candida albicans
Authors: Sasidharan Shan , Nishanth Kumar S. , Nair Hareendran J.
Published: August 2022

Candida albicans is a widespread disease-causing yeast affecting humankind, which leads to urinary tract, cutaneous and various lethal systemic infections. As this infection rate steadily increases, it is becoming a significant public health problem. Recently, Caesalpinia bonduc has received much attention from researchers due to its diverse pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial effects. Accordingly, we first planned to explore the in-vitro anticandidal potential of three extracts obtained from C. bonduc seeds against four Candida species. Initially, the anticandidal activity of the seed extracts was checked by the microdilution technique. Out of three seed extracts tested, ethanolic extract of C. bonduc seed (EECS) recorded the best activity against C. albicans. Hence, we next aimed to find out the anticandidal mechanism of EECS in C. albicans. The liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) analysis showed that the major compounds present in the EECS were tocopherols, fucosterol, linoleic acid, β-amyrin, β-sitosterol, campesterol, cassane furanoditerpene, Norcassane furanoditerpene and other diterpenes. To evaluate the cell death mechanism in C. albicans, a series of parameters related to apoptosis, viz., reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, membrane permeability, mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cytochrome c, DNA fragmentation, nuclear condensation, increased Ca2+ level in cytosolic and mitochondrial and activation of metacaspase, were analyzed. The results showed that EECS treatment resulted in the elevation of ROS, which leads to plasma membrane permeability in C. albicans. Annexin V staining further confirms the early stage of apoptosis through phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization. We further inspected the late apoptotic stage using DAPI and TUNEL staining assays. From the results, it can be concluded that EECS triggered mitochondrial dysfunction by releasing high levels of ROS, cytochrome c and Ca2+resulting in the activation of metacaspase mediated apoptosis, which is the central mechanism behind the cell death of C. albicans. Finally, a Galleria mellonella-C. albicans infection system was employed to assess the in-vivo potential of EECS. The outcomes displayed that the EECS considerably enhanced the recovery rate of G. mellonella larvae from infection after the treatment. Additionally, EECS also recorded low hemolytic activity. This study thus spotlights the anticandidal potential and mechanism of action of EECS against C. albicans and thus delivers a promising treatment approach to manage C. albicans infection in the future.
Assessing motivations and barriers to science outreach within academic science research settings: A mixed-methods survey
Authors: Woitowich Nicole C. , Hunt Geoffrey C. , Muhammad Lutfiyya N. , Garbarino Jeanne
Published: August 2022

The practice of science outreach is more necessary than ever. However, a disconnect exists between the stated goals for science outreach and its actual impact. In order to examine one potential source of this disconnect, we undertook a survey-based study to explore whether barriers to participation (either intrinsic or extrinsic) in science outreach exist within the academic community. We received responses to our survey from 530 individuals, the vast majority of whom engage in some type of science outreach activity on an annual basis. Those who engage in outreach report doing so for both personal and altruistic reasons, and having high (yet varied) levels of comfort with performing outreach activities. Respondents also report the existence of several significant yet surmountable barriers to participation, including lack of time and funding. Our findings demonstrate that both levels of participation in, and attitudes toward, science outreach within the academic community are generally favorable, suggesting that the general ineffectiveness of science outreach is due to other causes. We place our findings within the context of the broader science outreach, science communication and public engagement literature. We make recommendations on how existing approaches and infrastructure can, and must, be changed in order to improve the practice.
Understanding the social aspects of earthquake early warning: A literature review
Authors: Tan Marion Lara , Becker Julia S. , Stock Kristin , Prasanna Raj , Brown Anna , Kenney Christine , Cui Alicia , Lambie Emily
Published: August 2022

Earthquake early warning (EEW) systems aim to warn end-users of incoming ground shaking from earthquakes that have ruptured further afield, potentially reducing risks to lives and properties. EEW is a socio-technical system involving technical and social processes. This paper contributes to advancing EEW research by conducting a literature review investigating the social science knowledge gap in EEW systems. The review of 70 manuscripts found that EEW systems could benefit society, and the benefits may go beyond its direct function for immediate earthquake response. The findings also show that there are social processes involved in designing, developing, and implementing people-centered EEW systems. Therefore, social science research should not just be concerned with the end-user response but also investigate various stakeholders' involvement throughout the development process of EEW systems. Additionally, EEW is a rapidly evolving field of study, and social science research must take a proactive role as EEW technological capacities improve further and becomes more accessible to the public. To improve EEW effectiveness, further research is needed, including (1) advancing our understanding of why people take protective action or not, and ways to encourage appropriate action when alerted; (2) enhancing public understanding, investigating best practices for communicating, educating, and engaging with the public about EEW and overall earthquake resilience; and (3) keeping up with technological advances and societal changes and investigating how these changes impact communities' interactions with EEW from various standpoints including legal perspectives.
Missense mutation of SERPINC1 (p.Ser426Leu) in a young patient presenting as refractory and recurrent venous thromboembolism: A case report
Authors: Yu Haixu , Gai Xiaoyan , Wang Jianli , Zhuang Jinman , Guo Wanwan , Qiao Rui , Zhu Hong , Sun Yongchang
Published: August 2022

Genetic and acquired risk factors are extremely important mechanisms in the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Inherited antithrombin (AT) deficiency due to mutations in the SERPINC1 gene is a well-known risk factor for genetic thrombophilia. In this case, we reported a 28-year young abroad student who presented with refractory and recurrent VTE in-hospital. This patient presented with a 2-month history of right lower limb pain and 1 week of fever. The ultrasound showed deep venous thrombosis in the right common and superficial femoral veins. The CTPA confirmed acute pulmonary embolism with multiple filling defects in both pulmonary arteries. He was diagnosed with “pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, lower extremity venous thrombosis”. The level of serum antithrombin was normal, yet gene sequencing revealed a heterozygous missense mutation of SERPINC1, c.1277C>T (p.Ser426Leu). The patient underwent anticoagulant therapy of heparin and inferior vena cava filter implantation. The patient had undergone recurrent VTE despite adequate anticoagulation with heparin during the first 2 weeks. The swelling, pain, and thrombosis of lower extremity veins got resolved from warfarin and rivaroxaban. Inherited antithrombin deficiency due to mutations in the SERPINC1 gene is the genetic basis of this patient, and warfarin/rivaroxaban, other than heparin, is beneficial.
Case report: Transcatheter pulmonary valve-in-valve implantation in a deteriorated self-expandable valve caused by infective endocarditis
Authors: Li Yan-Jie , Pan Xin , Wang Cheng , He Ben
Published: August 2022

Background

Infective endocarditis is a complication with high mortality in patients with congenital heart disease, particularly for those with bioprosthetic valve.

Case summary

We report a case of a 54-year-old female with a history of tetralogy of Fallot who had been surgically repaired using a transannular patch due to severe pulmonary insufficiency with right heart enlargement and presented with worsening dyspnea. She had received transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (TPVI) 5 years ago. Unfortunately, bioprosthesis-associated infective endocarditis occurred due to dental caries. Given persistent antibiotic medication, she became clinically stable with prosthesis functional recovery. However, dysfunctional bioprosthesis was still detected 3 years later, which was successfully treated by valve-in-valve TPVI with the help of modified buddy wire technique. At a 12-month follow-up after valve-in-valve TPVI, she was completely recovered with improved symptoms of heart failure.

Conclusion

This is the first report of valve-in-valve TPVI of a self-expandable valve in a degenerated self-expandable valve. The case highlights increased surveillance for infective endocarditis of transcatheter pulmonary valve should be emphasized. Subsequent valve-in-valve TPVI is an effective treatment for valve failure in defined conditions improving the hemodynamics.
Mitochondrial dysfunction in heart failure and its therapeutic implications
Authors: Liu Miaosen , Lv Jialan , Pan Zhicheng , Wang Dongfei , Zhao Liding , Guo Xiaogang
Published: August 2022

The ATP consumption in heart is very intensive to support muscle contraction and relaxation. Mitochondrion is the power plant of the cell. Mitochondrial dysfunction has long been believed as the primary mechanism responsible for the inability of energy generation and utilization in heart failure. In addition, emerging evidence has demonstrated that mitochondrial dysfunction also contributes to calcium dysregulation, oxidative stress, proteotoxic insults and cardiomyocyte death. These elements interact with each other to form a vicious circle in failing heart. The role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of heart failure has attracted increasing attention. The complex signaling of mitochondrial quality control provides multiple targets for maintaining mitochondrial function. Design of therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction holds promise for the prevention and treatment of heart failure.
Prevalence, risk factors, and prediction of inappropriate use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in elderly Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation: A study protocol
Authors: Zhao Shu-Juan , Chen Bo-Ya , Hong Xue-Jiao , Liu Yin-Ping , Cai Hai-Xia , Du Song , Gu Zhi-Chun , Ma Pei-Zhi
Published: August 2022

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an arrhythmia that is prevalent globally, and its incidence grows exponentially with aging. Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have been developed in recent years, and it challenges the supremacy of warfarin for thromboembolism prophylaxis in AF. Nevertheless, there are limited data specifically evaluating the real-life use of NOACs in elderly patients with AF in China.

Methods

This is a national, multicenter, non-interventional, cross-sectional study that enrolls patients with AF aged 75 years and above from 31 institutions across China. Data were collected using the Hospital Information System. The primary outcomes include (1) profiles of NOAC use in the elderly; (2) frequency of inappropriate NOAC use based on guidelines and approved labeling recommendations; (3) exploring potential risk factors related to NOACs inappropriate use; and (4) creating a prediction tool for inappropriate NOACs use.

Conclusion

The results of this study reveal the prevalence, risk factors, and corresponding prediction tool of inappropriate NOACs use in older patients with AF in China, as well as provide valuable insights into the clinical application of NOACs in high-risk populations in the real-world setting.

Clinical trial registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT 05361889.
Effects of early phase 1 cardiac rehabilitation on cardiac function evaluated by impedance cardiography in patients with coronary heart disease and acute heart failure
Authors: Wang Yishu , Xiao Yanchao , Tang Jianjun , Liu Yutao , Li Hui , Peng Zengjin , Xu Danyan , Shen Li
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to access the impact of phase 1 cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on cardiac function and hemodynamic changes in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and acute heart failure (AHF).

Materials and methods

A total of 98 patients with CHD and AHF were recruited and randomized into two groups. Control group received standard pharmacotherapy and CR group received standard pharmacotherapy combined phase 1 CR. NT-proBNP and hemodynamic parameters measured by impedance cardiography (ICG) were estimated at baseline and at the end of treatment period.

Results

Phase 1 CR combined routine medical treatment could lower NT-proBNP levels. The percentage of high-risk patients was significantly decreased in CR group, although the post-treatment NT-proBNP level between control group and CR group showed no significant differences. Similarly, most hemodynamic parameters improved in the CR group, but not in the control group, suggesting that phase 1 CR in combination with the standard pharmacotherapy improved hemodynamic characteristics by elevating cardiac output, ameliorating preload, improving systolic and diastolic function, and relieving afterload, although the post-treatment hemodynamic parameters showed no statistically significant differences between the control group and the CR group.

Conclusion

Phase 1 CR combined routine medication can improve cardiac function and hemodynamic characteristics in patients with CHD and AHF. Thus, recommendation of phase 1 CR to stable patients is necessary.
Machine learning algorithms for predicting mortality after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Khalaji Amirmohammad , Behnoush Amir Hossein , Jameie Mana , Sharifi Ali , Sheikhy Ali , Fallahzadeh Aida , Sadeghian Saeed , Pashang Mina , Bagheri Jamshid , Ahmadi Tafti Seyed Hossein , Hosseini Kaveh
Published: August 2022

Background

As the era of big data analytics unfolds, machine learning (ML) might be a promising tool for predicting clinical outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive ability of ML models for estimating mortality after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Materials and methods

Various baseline and follow-up features were obtained from the CABG data registry, established in 2005 at Tehran Heart Center. After selecting key variables using the random forest method, prediction models were developed using: Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Naïve Bayes (NB), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Random Forest (RF) algorithms. Area Under the Curve (AUC) and other indices were used to assess the performance.

Results

A total of 16,850 patients with isolated CABG (mean age: 67.34 ± 9.67 years) were included. Among them, 16,620 had one-year follow-up, from which 468 died. Eleven features were chosen to train the models. Total ventilation hours and left ventricular ejection fraction were by far the most predictive factors of mortality. All the models had AUC > 0.7 (acceptable performance) for 1-year mortality. Nonetheless, LR (AUC = 0.811) and XGBoost (AUC = 0.792) outperformed NB (AUC = 0.783), RF (AUC = 0.783), SVM (AUC = 0.738), and KNN (AUC = 0.715). The trend was similar for two-to-five-year mortality, with LR demonstrating the highest predictive ability.

Conclusion

Various ML models showed acceptable performance for estimating CABG mortality, with LR illustrating the highest prediction performance. These models can help clinicians make decisions according to the risk of mortality in patients undergoing CABG.
Modelling Debris-Covered Glacier Ablation Using the Simultaneous Heat and Water Transport Model. Part 1: Model Development and Application to North Changri Nup
Authors: Winter-Billington Alex , Dadić Ruzica , Moore R. D. , Flerchinger Gerald , Wagnon Patrick , Banerjee Argha
Published: August 2022

Modelling ablation of glacier ice under a layer of mineral debris is increasingly important, because the extent of supraglacial debris is expanding worldwide due to glacier recession. Physically based models have been developed, but the uncertainty in predictions is not yet well constrained. A new one-dimensional model of debris-covered ice ablation that is based on the Simultaneous Heat and Water transfer model is introduced here. SHAW-Glacier is a physically based, vertically integrated, fully coupled, water and energy balance model, which includes the advection of heat by rainwater and lateral flow. SHAW-Glacier was applied to North Changri Nup, a high elevation alpine glacier in the monsoon-dominated Central Himalaya. Simulations were compared with observed debris temperature profiles, snow depth, and ablation stake measurements for debris 0.03–0.41 m thick, in a 2500 m2 study area. Prediction uncertainty was estimated in a Monte Carlo analysis. SHAW-Glacier simulated the characteristic pattern of decreasing ablation with increasing debris thickness. However, the observations of ablation did not follow the characteristic pattern; annual ablation was highest where the debris was thickest. Recursive partitioning revealed a substantial, non-linear sensitivity to the snow threshold air temperature, suggesting a sensitivity to the duration of snow cover. Photographs showed patches of snow persisting through the ablation season, and the observational data were consistent with uneven persistence of snow patches. The analyses indicate that patchy snow cover in the ablation season can overwhelm the sensitivity of sub-debris ablation to debris thickness. Patchy snow cover may be an unquantified source of uncertainty in predictions of sub-debris ablation.
Multiple-Stage Injection of Deep Hydrothermal Fluids in the Dolostone Reservoirs of Ordovician Majiagou Formation, Southern Ordos Basin
Authors: Yang Zhaolin , Liu Xinshe , Han Xu , Zhou Hu , Zhan Sha , Gui Xiaojun , Niu Jihong , Wang Ke
Published: August 2022

The Middle Ordovician Majiagou Formation in the southern Ordos Basin develops a set of sub-and peri-tidal carbonate successions that were extensively dolomitized. Diagenetic dolomitization is widely investigated because dolostones provide high-quality gas reservoirs in the southern Ordos Basin. Nonetheless, the ultimate mechanism controlling dolomitization remains enigmatic. In this study, integrated geochemical indexes including carbon and oxygen isotopes, rare earth elements, and microthermometry, coupled with U-Pb dating and lithofacies and mineralogic studies, are investigated to elucidate the periods of hydrothermal fluids involved in the formation of different types of dolomites in the studied section from Ma5 member. The results reveal that the micritic dolomite matrix was formed under the involvement of low-salinity meteoric water in the mixing zone during a shallow-burial environment. The mixing zone of paleokarst possibly provided accommodation for this dolomitization. The fine-/medium-sized dolomites were formed due to interactions between hydrothermal fluids of comparatively low temperature and matrix carbonates, which occurred during the period of the Middle Jurassic. The dolomitic microbialites were formed due to the injection of high-temperature acid fluids associated with organic matter maturing. This dolomitization occurred during the period of the Late Jurassic according to U-Pb ages. The coarse-sized dolomite cements can be furtherly classified into two types according to different U-Pb ages and carbon-oxygen isotopes, although they are very similar with respect to mineralogic features. Comprehensive geochemical evidence revealed that the dolomitizing fluids of two types of dolomite cements were derived from hydrothermal fluids associated with periodical magmatism, which occurred during the period of the Early Cretaceous. This finding provides a new insight for elucidating the diagenetic process of reservoir dolostones from the Middle Ordovician in the Ordos Basin.
Oocytes With Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum Aggregates May Not Impact Blastocyst Euploidy Rate
Authors: Xu Jian , Yang Li , Chen Zhi-Heng , Yin Min-Na , Chen Juan , Sun Ling
Published: August 2022

Objective

To investigate whether the euploidy rate of blastocysts derived from smooth endoplasmic reticulum aggregates (SERa) positive cycles and oocytes are impacted.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Method(s)

A total of 601 preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) cycles with at least one oocyte retrieved in our center between April 2017 and May 2021 were initially included in the study. Women>35 years and PGT cycles with chromosomal structural rearrangements (PGT-SR) were excluded. Embryological and blastocyst ploidy outcomes were compared among SERa+ oocyte, sibling SERa- oocytes and oocytes in SERa- cycles.

Results

No significant difference was observed among the SERa+ oocyte group, sibling SERa- oocyte group, and SERa- cycle group in the normal fertilization rate (82.1% vs. 77.8% vs. 83.1%, respectively, P=0.061), blastocyst formation rate (71.0% vs. 72.5% vs. 68.4%, respectively, P=0.393), good quality blastocyst formation rate (46.4% vs. 48.3% vs. 42.6%, respectively, P=0.198). No significant difference was observed in the euploidy rate (50.0% vs. 62.5% vs. 63.3%, respectively, P=0.324), mosaic rate (12.5% vs. 9.7% vs. 13.4%, respectively, P=0.506), and aneuploidy rate (37.5% vs. 27.8% vs. 23.2%, respectively, P=0.137) among the three groups.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the euploidy rate of blastocysts derived from SERa+ cycles and oocytes may not be impacted.
Identifying and addressing disparities in the evaluation and treatment of children with growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Beliard Kara , Wu Vickie , Samuels Julie , Lipman Terri H. , Rapaport Robert
Published: August 2022

Health disparities are a significant cause of concern globally and in the United States. Disparities have been additionally highlighted throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic during which populations of color have been the most affected by the disease. Social determinants of health, race, ethnicity, and gender have all contributed to disparate outcomes and disparities spanning all age groups. Multiple socio-ecological factors contribute to disparities and different strategies have been proposed. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of disparities in pediatric treatment and outcomes, with a focus on children with endocrine disorders.
Model Predictive Control–Based Load-Frequency Regulation of Grid-Forming Inverter–Based Power Systems
Authors: Qi Xiaojing , Zheng Jianyong , Mei Fei
Published: August 2022

The high-penetrated renewables enable flexible and versatile dispatchable resources in power systems. As the digitalization process improves with the help of information and communication technology (ICT), a real-time online control framework is essential to regulate such a low-inertia power system dominated by renewables. To enable control practices, a control-oriented model is developed linking load increments to frequency dynamics. Based on such a control-oriented model, a model predictive control (MPC)–based online feedback algorithm is well designed by the virtue of rapid data transmission enabled by digitalization. The MPC optimization is a convex quadratic programming, where an objective function that balances frequency deviations and load increments is formulated and operational constraints are integrated into a matrix-type inequality. In the end, the proposed MPC-based load-frequency control framework is illustrated by several case studies, where validations and analyses of constraints inside the model are also included.
Economically optimizing elevation of new, single-family residences for flood mitigation via life-cycle benefit-cost analysis
Authors: Gnan Ehab , Friedland Carol J. , Mostafiz Rubayet Bin , Rahim Md Adilur , Gentimis Thanos , Taghinezhad Arash , Rohli Robert V.
Published: August 2022

Construction with freeboard—vertical height of a structure above the minimum required—is commonly accepted as a sound investment for flood hazard mitigation. However, determining the optimal height of freeboard poses a major decision problem. This research introduces a life-cycle benefit-cost analysis (LCBCA) approach for optimizing freeboard height for a new, single-family residence, while incorporating uncertainty, and, in the case of insured homes, considering the costs from losses, insurance, and freeboard (if any) to the homeowner and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) separately. Using a hypothetical, case study home in Metairie, Louisiana and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers design depth-damage functions for generic inland flooding, results show that adding 2 ft of freeboard at the time of construction might be considered the optimal option given that it yields the highest net benefit, but the highest net benefit-cost ratio occurs for the 1 ft freeboard. Even if flood loss reduction is not considered when adding freeboard, the savings in annual insurance premiums alone are sufficient to recover the construction costs paid by the homeowner if at least one foot of freeboard is included at construction. Collectively, these results based on conservative assumptions suggest that at the time of construction, even a small amount of freeboard provides a huge savings for the homeowner and (especially) for the financially-strapped National Flood Insurance Program. For community planners, the results suggest that wise planning with reasonable expectations on the front end makes for a more sustainable community.
The Plastic Pathfinder: A macroplastic transport and fate model for terrestrial environments
Authors: Mellink Y. , van Emmerik T. , Kooi M. , Laufkötter C. , Niemann H.
Published: August 2022

Land-based plastic waste is the major source for freshwater and marine plastic pollution. Yet, the transport pathways over land remain highly uncertain. Here, we introduce a new conceptual model to forecast plastic transport on land: the Plastic Pathfinder; a numerical model that simulates the spatiotemporal distribution of macroplastic (>0.5 cm) at a river basin scale. The plastic transport driving forces are wind and surface runoff, while plastic transport is resisted by terrain surface friction. The terrain surface friction, a function of the slope and land use, is converted into thresholds that define the critical wind and surface runoff conditions required to mobilize and transport macroplastic waste. When the wind and/or surface runoff conditions exceed their respective thresholds, the model simulates the transport and (re)distribution of plastics, resulting in plastic accumulation hotspots maps and high probability transport route maps. The Plastic Pathfinder contributes to a better mechanistic understanding of plastic transport through terrestrial environments, and upon future calibration and validation, can serve as a practical tool to optimize plastic waste prevention, mitigation, and reduction strategies.
Timing and extent of forest disturbance in the Laurentian Mixed Forest
Authors: Edgar Christopher B. , Westfall James A.
Published: August 2022

An analysis of United States national forest inventory observations in the Laurentian Mixed Forest reveals a marked increase in forest disturbance between 1999 and 2015. The Laurentian Mixed Forest Province ecological subregion spans the northern sections of Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin and includes forest area of between 16.7 and 17.5 million hectares depending on the year. Forest disturbance ranges from a low of 0.13 million hectares (0.8% of forest area) in 2000 to a high of 2.09 million hectares (11.9% of forest area) in 2014. The year 2015 is notable for being the first year since 2000 where forest disturbance declines, albeit modestly (11.4% of forest area). The marked increase is attributable to disturbances occurring continuously over time between remeasurement. Disturbances with the highest annual averages are insect damage to trees, disease damage to trees, and deer/ungulate at 291 thousand, 189 thousand, and 126 thousand hectares per year, respectively. Disturbances occurring in a specific year, what we term discrete disturbances, show no discernible trend during the period. The most extensive discrete disturbances are wind in 1999, 2011, and 2012 at 108 thousand, 62 thousand, and 61 thousand hectares, respectively. Standard estimates from national forest inventory lack specificity as to the actual year of the disturbance. The estimates reported here are actual annual estimates of disturbance that apply estimation methods accounting for the retrospective nature of the disturbance observation. The timing (year) and location (ecological section) of the two most extensive wind events coincide with historical records.
Applicability of single-step genomic evaluation with a random regression model for reproductive traits in turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo)
Authors: Makanjuola Bayode O. , Abdalla Emhimad A. , Wood Benjamin J. , Baes Christine F.
Published: August 2022

Fertility and hatchability are economically important traits due to their effect on poult output coming from the turkey hatchery. Traditionally, fertility is recorded as the number of fertile eggs set in the incubator (FERT), defined at a time point during incubation by the identification of a developing embryo. Hatchability is recorded as either the number of fertile eggs that hatched (hatch of fertile, HOF) or the number hatched from all the eggs set (hatch of set, HOS). These traits are collected throughout the productive life of the bird and are conventionally cumulated, resulting in each bird having a single record per trait. Genetic evaluations of these traits have been estimated using pedigree relationships. However, the longitudinal nature of the traits and the availability of genomic information have renewed interest in using random regression (RR) to capture the differences in repeatedly recorded traits, as well as in the incorporation of genomic relationships. Therefore, the objectives of this study were: 1) to compare the applicability of a RR model with a cumulative model (CUM) using both pedigree and genomic information for genetic evaluation of FERT, HOF, and HOS and 2) to estimate and compare predictability from the models. For this study, a total of 63,935 biweekly FERT, HOF, and HOS records from 7,211 hens mated to 1,524 toms were available for a maternal turkey line. In total, 4,832 animals had genotypic records, and pedigree information on 11,191 animals was available. Estimated heritability from the CUM model using pedigree information was 0.11 ± 0.02, 0.24 ± 0.02, and 0.24 ± 0.02 for FERT, HOF, and HOS, respectively. With random regression using pedigree relationships, heritability estimates were in the range of 0.04–0.09, 0.11–0.17, and 0.09–0.18 for FERT, HOF, and HOS, respectively. The incorporation of genomic information increased the heritability by an average of 28 and 23% for CUM and RR models, respectively. In addition, the incorporation of genomic information caused predictability to increase by approximately 11 and 7% for HOF and HOS, respectively; however, a decrease in predictability of about 12% was observed for FERT. Our findings suggest that RR models using pedigree and genomic relationships simultaneously will achieve a higher predictability than the traditional CUM model.
Age-related decline in the resistance of mice to bacterial infection and in LPS/TLR4 pathway-dependent neutrophil responses
Authors: Hornigold Kirsti , Chu Julia Y. , Chetwynd Stephen A. , Machin Polly A. , Crossland Laraine , Pantarelli Chiara , Anderson Karen E. , Hawkins Phillip T. , Segonds-Pichon Anne , Oxley David , Welch Heidi C. E.
Published: August 2022

Host defense against bacterial and fungal infections diminishes with age. In humans, impaired neutrophil responses are thought to contribute to this decline. However, it remains unclear whether neutrophil responses are also impaired in old mice. Here, we investigated neutrophil function in old mice, focusing on responses primed by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin released by gram-negative bacteria like E. coli, which signals through toll-like receptor (TLR) 4. We show that old mice have a reduced capacity to clear pathogenic E. coli during septic peritonitis. Neutrophil recruitment was elevated during LPS-induced but not aseptic peritonitis. Neutrophils from old mice showed reduced killing of E. coli. Their reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was impaired upon priming with LPS but not with GM-CSF/TNFα. Phagocytosis and degranulation were reduced in a partially LPS-dependent manner, whereas impairment of NET release in response to S. aureus was independent of LPS. Unexpectedly, chemotaxis was normal, as were Rac1 and Rac2 GTPase activities. LPS-primed activation of Erk and p38 Mapk was defective. PIP3 production was reduced upon priming with LPS but not with GM-CSF/TNFα, whereas PIP2 levels were constitutively low. The expression of 5% of neutrophil proteins was dysregulated in old age. Granule proteins, particularly cathepsins and serpins, as well as TLR-pathway proteins and membrane receptors were upregulated, whereas chromatin and RNA regulators were downregulated. The upregulation of CD180 and downregulation of MyD88 likely contribute to the impaired LPS signaling. In summary, all major neutrophil responses except chemotaxis decline with age in mice, particularly upon LPS priming. This LPS/TLR4 pathway dependence resolves previous controversy regarding effects of age on murine neutrophils and confirms that mice are an appropriate model for the decline in human neutrophil function.
PD-1+ CD4 T cell immune response is mediated by HIF-1α/NFATc1 pathway after P. yoelii infection
Authors: Wei Haixia , Xie Anqi , Li Jiajie , Fang Chao , Liu Lin , Xing Junmin , Shi Feihu , Mo Feng , Chen Dianhui , Xie Hongyan , Yang Quan , Pan Xingfei , Tang Xiaoping , Huang Jun
Published: August 2022

The morbidity and mortality of malaria are still high. Programmed cell death-1(PD-1) is an important co-inhibitory factor and CD8 T cells with PD-1 were reported to be exhausted cells. It remains unknown what the role of CD4 T cells expressing PD-1 is and what the upstream regulating molecules of PD-1 in CD4 T cells are. The C57BL/6 mice were injected with Plasmodium yoelii (P. yoelii) in this study. Expressions of PD-1, activation markers, and cytokines were tested. The differentially expressed genes between PD-1+/- CD4 T cells were detected by microarray sequencing. Western blot, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), siRNA, hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) inducer and inhibitor were used to explore PD-1’s upstream molecules, respectively. The proportions of PD-1+ CD4 T cells increased post P. yoelii infection. PD-1+ CD4 T cells expressed more activated surface markers and could produce more cytokines. Nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFATc1) was found to be a key transcription factor to induce PD-1 expression after infection. Both the inducer and the inhibitor of HIF-1α could change the expressions of NFATc1 and PD-1 in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Taken together, P. yoelii infection induced NFATc1 expression by HIF-1α. The highly expressed NFATc1 entered the nucleus and initiated PD-1 expression. PD-1+ CD4 T cells appeared to be more activated and could secrete more cytokines to regulate the host’s immune responses against malaria.
Clinical and immunological characteristics of five patients with immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked syndrome in China–expanding the atypical phenotypes
Authors: Huang Yu , Fang Shuyu , Zeng Ting , Chen Junjie , Yang Lu , Sun Gan , Dai Rongxin , An Yunfei , Tang Xuemei , Dou Ying , Zhao Xiaodong , Zhou Lina
Published: August 2022

Background

Immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked (IPEX) syndrome is a rare disorder of the immune regulatory system caused by forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) mutations. Abnormal numbers or functions of regulatory T (Treg) cells account for the various autoimmune symptoms. We aimed to explore the molecular genetics and phenotypic spectra of patients with atypical IPEX syndrome in China.

Methods

We analyzed the molecular, clinical and immune phenotype characteristics of five Chinese patients with FOXP3 mutations.

Results

We summarized the molecular and phenotypic features of five patients with FOXP3 mutations, including two novel mutations. Four of the five patients displayed atypical phenotypes, and one developed immune-related peripheral neuropathy. Three of the five patients showed normal frequencies of Treg cells, but the proportions of subsets of Treg cells, CD4+ T cells and B cells were out of balance.

Conclusions

Our report broadens the understanding of the clinical features of atypical IPEX syndrome. Our detailed analyses of the immunological characteristics of these patients enhance the understanding of the possible mechanisms underlying the clinical manifestations.