bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary Bacterial Infection and Clinical Characteristics in Patients With COVID-19 Admitted to Two Intensive Care Units of an Academic Hospital in Iran During the First Wave of the Pandemic
Authors: Pourajam Samaneh , Kalantari Elham , Talebzadeh Hamid , Mellali Hamid , Sami Ramin , Soltaninejad Forogh , Amra Babak , Sajadi Mahdi , Alenaseri Malihe , Kalantari Forough , Solgi Hamid
Published: February 2022

Data on the prevalence of bacterial co-infections and secondary infection among adults with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) are rare. We aimed to determine the frequency of secondary bacterial infection, antibiotic use, and clinical characteristics in patients admitted to the ICU with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. This was a retrospective cohort study of adults with severe COVID-19 admitted to two ICUs from March 6 to September 7, 2020 in an academic medical center in Isfahan, Iran. To detect COVID-19, reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed and also typical pattern of CT scan was used for the diagnosis of COVID-19. Data collection included the age, gender, main symptoms, history of underlying disease, demographics, hospital stay, outcomes, and antibiotic regimen of the patient. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out according to the CLSI guidelines. During the study period, 553 patients were referred to the both ICUs for COVID-19 with severe pneumonia. Secondary bacterial infection was detected in 65 (11.9%) patients. The median age was 69.4 (range 21–95) years; 42 (63.6%) were men. Notably, 100% (n = 65) of the patients with superinfection were prescribed empirical antibiotics before first positive culture, predominantly meropenem (86.2%) with a median duration of 12 (range 2–32) days and levofloxacin (73.8%) with a median duration of nine (range 2–24) days. Most prevalent causative agents for secondary bacterial infection were Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 44) and Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 33). Most patients with secondary bacterial infection showed extensive drug-resistance. The mortality among patients who acquired superinfections was 83% against an overall mortality of 38.1% in total admitted COVID-19 patients. We found a high prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacilli in COVID-19 patients admitted to our ICUs, with a high proportion of K. pneumoniae followed by A. baumannii. These findings emphasize the importance of implementation of strict infection control measures and highlight the role of antimicrobial stewardship during a pandemic.
How Does Epstein–Barr Virus Interact With Other Microbiomes in EBV-Driven Cancers?
Authors: Wen Yuxi , Xu Huan , Han Juan , Jin Runming , Chen Hongbo
Published: February 2022

The commensal microbiome refers to a large spectrum of microorganisms which mainly consists of viruses and bacteria, as well as some other components such as protozoa and fungi. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is considered as a common component of the human commensal microbiome due to its spread worldwide in about 95% of the adult population. As the first oncogenic virus recognized in human, numerous studies have reported the involvement of other components of the commensal microbiome in the increasing incidence of EBV-driven cancers. Additionally, recent advances have also defined the involvement of host–microbiota interactions in the regulation of the host immune system in EBV-driven cancers as well as other circumstances. The regulation of the host immune system by the commensal microbiome coinfects with EBV could be the implications for how we understand the persistence and reactivation of EBV, as well as the progression of EBV-associated cancers, since majority of the EBV persist as asymptomatic carrier. In this review, we attempt to summarize the possible mechanisms for EBV latency, reactivation, and EBV-driven tumorigenesis, as well as casting light on the role of other components of the microbiome in EBV infection and reactivation. Besides, whether novel microbiome targeting strategies could be applied for curing of EBV-driven cancer is discussed as well.
The Speech Surrogacy Systems of the Yoruba Dùndún and Bàtá Drums. On the Interface Between Organology and Phonology
Authors: González Mariano , Oludare Olupemi
Published: February 2022

This paper explores the interdependence between organology and phonology in the Yorubadùndúnandbàtádrums. We analyze how the specific features of these drums, such as corpus shape, size, kind and number of membranes, and playing techniques affect their systems of speech surrogacy. The study relies on field recordings collected by the authors in Lagos, Nigeria, in February 2020, featuring drummed performances of Yoruba sentences previously unknown to the informants. The recorded sentences were transcribed and analyzed comparatively, which allows us to characterize systematic regularities in the speech-to-drum mapping. Observing how the intrinsic characteristics of language sounds (pitch, duration, intensity and spectrum) are addressed by means of the organologic and acoustic properties of thedùndúnand thebàtá, we conclude that these drums’ different properties foster distinct speech surrogacy systems. Alongside a consideration of native perspectives on speech surrogacy, we propose an understanding of drum languages as platforms capable of supporting the development of native theories on sound and language.
Multiscale Study on Deterioration Characteristics of Soil-Rock Mixtures Under the Immersion-Air dry Circulation
Authors: Li Li , Zhang Shixin , Qiang Yue , Xia Xiaozhou , Li Shaohong , Chen Longfei
Published: February 2022

Soil-rock mixtures (S-RMs) composed of rock slope colluvium and landslide deposits are common in superficial hazards of bank slopes. The physical and mechanical properties of S-RMs are closely related to environmental conditions, especially reservoir water level fluctuation. Therefore, immersion-air dry (I-AD) circulations tests were carried out to simulate the phenomenon in this study. The macroscopic, mesoscopic, and microcosmic studies of S-RMs are carried out after experiencing cycles (N) of 0, 1, 5, and 10, respectively. Conventional triaxial tests, particle analysis tests, and scanning electron microscopy were performed to study the physical and mechanical properties of S-RMs. According to test results, the maximum deviator stress of S-RMs samples with confining pressures of 100, 200, 300, and 400 kPa after ten cycles is reduced by 41.13, 37.11, 32.17, and 30.20%. With the increase in N there is a significant trend towards reducing the strength of S-RMs, and the strength deterioration after the first I-AD circulation reached 15.73%. After I-AD circulations, the content of fine particles in S-RMs decreases, the grain-size characteristic and non-uniformity coefficient increase significantly, and the gradation of S-RMs shows discontinuity. Moreover, the repeated changes of water pressure have an irreversible impact on the microstructure of S-RMs, which will cause an increase in pore size and a higher pore disorder. In addition, it is found from the established strength parameter evolution equation that when N approaches infinity, S-RMs decomposes the weathering into cohesionless silt with an angle of repose of 0.90322φ0. The study results in this paper clarify the deterioration characteristics of wading S-RMs, and might be used in the bank slopes stability analysis.
Insights Into the Source of Magmatic Hot-Lines: Forty Years of Geophysical Studies of the Cameroon Volcanic Line
Authors: Adams Aubreya
Published: February 2022

The Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) of west Africa poses many challenges to common models of mantle processes and volcanic system genesis. Although the CVL superficially resembles the hot-spot trace of a mantle plume, there is no evidence for age progression of initiation or cessation of volcanic activity, making the CVL one of several hot-lines observed on Earth, which exhibit asynchronous volcanism along each line. This unusual form of volcanic system, together with the complexity of the surrounding geology, which includes a Mesozoic rift, an Archean Craton, a Proterozoic mobile belt, and a major continental-scale shear zone, have fueled numerous geophysical investigations of the crust and upper mantle structure within the region. This review highlights major findings from geophysical studies, including controlled source and passive source seismic studies and gravimetric modeling, conducted in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Potential geodynamic models for the formation of the CVL are examined and evaluated based on the body of geophysical evidence. Finally, several key outstanding questions about the structure and formation of the CVL are highlighted, potentially guiding future studies of this region.
Intensive, Short-Term Presenting With a Science Outreach Program Enhances Positive Science Attitudes and Interest in Lifelong Learning About Science
Authors: Sripaoraya Nantida , Spronken-Smith Rachel , Longnecker Nancy
Published: February 2022

This study investigated impacts of intensive, short-term participation as a science outreach presenter on attitudes towards science and interest in lifelong learning about science. Participants included high school and university students who volunteered to assist as presenters over 1 week when Science Caravan—an extensive science outreach program in Thailand, run by the National Science Museum—visited their locality. This study employed mixed methods over two phases. Phase One involved three questionnaires. Two questionnaires were administered to current presenters (N = 690), pre-presenting (before training) and immediately post-presenting at 12 locations of the Science Caravan tour in 2017–2018. A third questionnaire collected data from previous, alumni presenters (n = 726). Phase Two involved interviews with current presenters (n = 19) and alumni presenters (n = 19). While presenters already had positive attitudes towards science, the brief but intensive experience of being a Science Caravan presenter enhanced science attitudes in four scales—with more positive attitudes about Self-concept in science, Value of science to society, and Future participation in science, and decreased Anxiety about science presenting. Participation had a greater impact of reducing anxiety in female presenters compared to male presenters. The experience of presenting with Science Caravan led to the development of more positive attitudes towards science and increased interest in lifelong learning activities regarding science, including presenters’ interest in science-related education. The increased interest in lifelong learning activities was correlated with positive attitudes about and self-efficacy in science. This study provides evidence that a short-term, intensive experience of science outreach can lead to increases in positive attitudes towards science and lifelong learning.
Acromegaly: Clinical Care in Central and Eastern Europe, Israel, and Kazakhstan
Authors: Bolanowski Marek , Adnan Zaina , Doknic Mirjana , Guk Mykola , Hána Václav , Ilovayskaya Irena , Kastelan Darko , Kocjan Tomaz , Kužma Martin , Nurbekova Akmaral , Poiana Catalina , Szücs Nikolette , Vandeva Silvia , Gomez Roy , Paidac Sorin , Simoneau Damien , Shimon Ilan
Published: February 2022

Acromegaly is a rare condition typically caused by benign pituitary adenomas, resulting in excessive production of growth hormone. Clinical manifestations of acromegaly are diverse, varying from the overgrowth of body tissue to cardiovascular, metabolic, and osteoarticular disorders. Symptoms may emerge slowly, overlapping with other diseases and often involve many different healthcare specialists. In the last decade, efforts to provide an accurate and timely diagnosis of acromegaly have improved disease management and clinical experience. Despite this progress, marked differences in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of acromegaly exist from country-to-country. To address these inconsistencies in the region comprising Central and Eastern Europe, Israel, and Kazakhstan, a panel of acromegaly experts from 13 of these countries was convened. Acromegaly experts from each country provided available information on the approaches from their country, including regional treatment centers and multidisciplinary teams, treatment access, reimbursement and availability, and physician education, disease awareness, and patient advocacy. Across several areas of acromegaly management, divergent approaches were identified and discussed, including the provision of multidisciplinary care, approved and available treatments, and disease awareness programs. These were recognized as areas of potential improvement in the management of acromegaly, in addition to participation in national and regional acromegaly registries. Further experience exchange will facilitate the identification of specific strategies that can be adapted in each country, and widespread participation in acromegaly registries will enable their evaluation. It is anticipated that this approach will support the optimization of acromegaly patient care across this region.
Proteolytic Cleavage of the Extracellular Domain Affects Signaling of Parathyroid Hormone 1 Receptor
Authors: Klenk Christoph , Hommers Leif , Lohse Martin J.
Published: February 2022

Parathyroid hormone 1 receptor (PTH1R) is a member of the class B family of G protein-coupled receptors, which are characterized by a large extracellular domain required for ligand binding. We have previously shown that the extracellular domain of PTH1R is subject to metalloproteinase cleavage in vivo that is regulated by ligand-induced receptor trafficking and leads to impaired stability of PTH1R. In this work, we localize the cleavage site in the first loop of the extracellular domain using amino-terminal protein sequencing of purified receptor and by mutagenesis studies. We further show, that a receptor mutant not susceptible to proteolytic cleavage exhibits reduced signaling to Gs and increased activation of Gq compared to wild-type PTH1R. These findings indicate that the extracellular domain modulates PTH1R signaling specificity, and that its cleavage affects receptor signaling.
LVDC Bipolar Balance Control of I-M2C in Urban AC/DC Hybrid Distribution System
Authors: Li Liangzi , Sun Kaiqi , Liu Zhijie , Wang Wenning , Li Ke-Jun
Published: February 2022

With the high proportional renewable energy integration and rapid increase in the DC loads, such as the electric vehicle and distributed energy storage, the DC distribution system becomes a prospective solution for the urban power grid enhancement for its high-efficiency and eco-friendly nature. In most DC distribution systems, power interfaces are applied to connect low-voltage DC (LVDC) distribution systems with multiple medium-voltage (MV) systems in order to improve the operating reliability and economy. Compared to other types of multiports power interfaces, the three-port-isolated modular multilevel converter (I-M2C) has shown many advantages, including low cost, high power density, and low control complexity. However, the I-M2C cannot handle the power imbalance at the bipolar LVDC port like the other MMC-based three-port power interfaces, which limits the operating range and decreases the stability of the I-M2C in bipolar LVDC application. In order to solve the bipolar imbalance problems, a novel balance control method is proposed in this article. The proposed balance control method is based on symmetrical decomposition. By decoupling the MV power control and the LV bipolar power compensation control, the proposed method can eliminate the bipolar voltage deviation under different working conditions. The simulation results prove the validity and good control performance of the proposed method.
Efficient Swelling and Mercerization of Bagasse Fiber by Freeze-Thaw-Assisted Alkali Treatment
Authors: Cao Liming , Zhu Jiatian , Deng Baojuan , Zeng Fanyan , Wang Shanshan , Ma Yun , Qin Chengrong , Yao Shuangquan
Published: February 2022

The mercerization of fiber is an important method for the high-value utilization of cellulose. In this study, the bagasse fiber was mercerized by freeze–thaw-assisted alkali treatment (FT/AT). The effects of freezing temperature, freezing time, alkali concentration, and thawing temperature on cellulose and hemicellulose removal were studied. The optimal freezing temperature was −40°C, freezing time was 8.0 h, alkali concentration was 5.0%, and thawing temperature was 30°C. The highest removal rate of hemicellulose was 75.64%. It was 5.80% higher than that of alkali treatment (AT). The alkaline degradation of cellulose was inhibited. The penetration of alkaline solution to fiber was promoted by the assistance of freeze-thaw pretreatment. The effective alkali concentration (5.0%) of cellulose I completely transformed into cellulose II decreased by 66.67% compared with traditional alkaline mercerization (15.0%). The high-efficiency mercerization of fiber was achieved by FT/AT. It provides theoretical support for promoting the high-value utilization of lignocellulosic biomass.
The First Case Report of a Patient With Oligodendroglioma Harboring CHEK2 Germline Mutation
Authors: Li Xueen , Xue Hao , Luo Ningning , Han Tiantian , Li Mengmeng , Jia Deze
Published: February 2022

Introduction:CHEK2 (Checkpoint kinase 2) germline mutations were associated with an elevated risk of breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and other familiar cancers. Loss-of-function variants in CHEK2 are known to be pathogenic. Germline CHEK2 mutations have also been observed in medulloblastoma and primary glioblastomas. Currently, there is no direct evidence supporting the relationship of CHEK2 with central nervous system tumors.

Case presentation: A case of an oligodendroglioma patient harboring the germline CHEK2 p.R137* mutation was reported. CHEK2 p.R137* mutation occurred in the forkhead-associated domain. Given the absence of other known genetic predisposing risk factors, we considered that oligodendroglioma might be associated with the CHEK2 mutation. The patient in our case might have a high risk of breast cancer and other multiple primary tumors. Her siblings and offspring would have a 50% chance of having the same variant.

Conclusion: We reported a case of an oligodendroglioma patient with a family history of gastrointestinal tumors harboring the germline CHEK2 pathogenic variation. This is the first report of the association between the CHEK2 pathogenic variation and brain tumors that warrants further validation in larger cohorts.
Genetic Background of Kirgiz Ethnic Group From Northwest China Revealed by Mitochondrial DNA Control Region Sequences on Massively Parallel Sequencing
Authors: Wang Hongdan , Chen Man , Chen Chong , Fang Yating , Cui Wei , Lei Fanzhang , Zhu Bofeng
Published: February 2022

The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been used to trace population evolution and apply to forensic identification due to the characteristics including lack of recombination, higher copy number and matrilineal inheritance comparing with nuclear genome DNA. In this study, mtDNA control region sequences of 91 Kirgiz individuals from the Northwest region of China were sequenced to identify genetic polymorphisms and gain insight into the genetic background of the Kirgiz ethnic group. MtDNA control region sequences of Kirgiz individuals presented relatively high genetic polymorphisms. The 1,122 bp sequences of mtDNA control region could differ among unrelated Kirgiz individuals, which suggested the mtDNA control region sequences have a good maternal pedigree tracing capability among different Kirgiz individuals. The neutrality test, mismatch distribution, Bayesian phylogenetic inference, Bayesian skyline analysis, and the median network analyses showed that the Kirgiz group might occurred population expansion, and the expansion could be observed at about ∼53.41 kilo years ago (kya) when ancestries of modern humans began to thrive in Eurasia. The pairwise population comparisons, principal component analyses, and median network analyses were performed based on haplogroup frequencies or mtDNA control region sequences of 5,886 individuals from the Kirgiz group and the 48 reference populations all over the world. And the most homologous haplotypes were found between Kirgiz individuals and the East Asian individuals, which indicated that the Kirgiz group might have gene exchanges with the East Asian populations.
Case Report: Late-Onset Autosomal Recessive Cerebellar Ataxia Associated With SYNE1 Mutation in a Chinese Family
Authors: Qian Nannan , Wei Taohua , Yang Wenming , Wang Jiuxiang , Zhang Shijie , Jin Shan , Dong Wei , Hao Wenjie , Yang Yue , Huang Ru
Published: February 2022

Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia type 1 (ARCA-1), also known as autosomal recessive spinocerebellar ataxia type 8 (SCAR8), is caused by spectrin repeat containing nuclear envelope protein 1 (SYNE1) gene mutation. Nesprin-1, encoded by SYNE1, is widely expressed in various tissues, especially in the striated muscle and cerebellum. The destruction of Nesprin-1 is related to neuronal and neuromuscular lesions. It has been reported that SYNE1 gene variation is associated with Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy type 4, arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, SCAR8, and dilated cardiomyopathy. The clinical manifestations of SCAR8 are mainly characterized by relatively pure cerebellar ataxia and may be accompanied by upper and/or lower motor neuron dysfunction. Some affected people may also display cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome. It is conventionally held that the age at the onset of SCAR8 is between 6 and 42 years (the median age is 17 years). Here, we report a pedigree with SCAR8 where the onset age in the proband is 48 years. This case report extends the genetic profile and clinical features of SCAR8. A new pathogenic site (c.7578del; p.S2526Sfs*8) located in SYNE1, which is the genetic cause of the patient, was identified via whole exome sequencing (WES).
Circulating N-Terminal Probrain Natriuretic Peptide Levels in Relation to Ischemic Stroke and Its Subtypes: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Li Ming , Xu Yi , Wu Jiaqi , Wu Chuanjie , Li Ang , Ji Xunming
Published: February 2022

Mendelian randomization was used to evaluate the potential causal association between N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and ischemic stroke based on summary statistics data from large-scale genome-wide association studies. Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs198389, rs13107325, and rs11105306 associated with NT-proBNP levels found in large general populations and in patients with acute heart disease were used as instrumental variables. The results of genetic association analysis of each single SNP show that there is no significant association between NT-proBNP levels and ischemic stroke or its subtypes, whereas rs198389 alone has a suggestive association with large-artery atherosclerosis stroke. The MR analysis of three SNPs shows that NT-proBNP levels may reduce the risk of small-vessel occlusion stroke suggestively. This genetic analysis provides insights into the pathophysiology and treatment of ischemic stroke.
Classification and Regression Models for Genomic Selection of Skewed Phenotypes: A Case for Disease Resistance in Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Merrick Lance F. , Lozada Dennis N. , Chen Xianming , Carter Arron H.
Published: February 2022

Most genomic prediction models are linear regression models that assume continuous and normally distributed phenotypes, but responses to diseases such as stripe rust (caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici) are commonly recorded in ordinal scales and percentages. Disease severity (SEV) and infection type (IT) data in germplasm screening nurseries generally do not follow these assumptions. On this regard, researchers may ignore the lack of normality, transform the phenotypes, use generalized linear models, or use supervised learning algorithms and classification models with no restriction on the distribution of response variables, which are less sensitive when modeling ordinal scores. The goal of this research was to compare classification and regression genomic selection models for skewed phenotypes using stripe rust SEV and IT in winter wheat. We extensively compared both regression and classification prediction models using two training populations composed of breeding lines phenotyped in 4 years (2016–2018 and 2020) and a diversity panel phenotyped in 4 years (2013–2016). The prediction models used 19,861 genotyping-by-sequencing single-nucleotide polymorphism markers. Overall, square root transformed phenotypes using ridge regression best linear unbiased prediction and support vector machine regression models displayed the highest combination of accuracy and relative efficiency across the regression and classification models. Furthermore, a classification system based on support vector machine and ordinal Bayesian models with a 2-Class scale for SEV reached the highest class accuracy of 0.99. This study showed that breeders can use linear and non-parametric regression models within their own breeding lines over combined years to accurately predict skewed phenotypes.
Cooperation Between Systemic and Mucosal Antibodies Induced by Virosomal Vaccines Targeting HIV-1 Env: Protection of Indian Rhesus Macaques Against Low-Dose Intravaginal SHIV Challenges
Authors: Lakhashe Samir K. , Amacker Mario , Hariraju Dinesh , Vyas Hemant K. , Morrison Kyle S. , Weiner Joshua A. , Ackerman Margaret E. , Roy Vicky , Alter Galit , Ferrari Guido , Montefiori David C. , Tomaras Georgia D. , Sawant Sheetal , Yates Nicole L. , Gast Chris , Fleury Sylvain , Ruprecht Ruth M.
Published: February 2022

A virosomal vaccine inducing systemic/mucosal anti-HIV-1 gp41 IgG/IgA had previously protected Chinese-origin rhesus macaques (RMs) against vaginal SHIVSF162P3 challenges. Here, we assessed its efficacy in Indian-origin RMs by intramuscular priming/intranasal boosting (n=12/group). Group K received virosome-P1-peptide alone (harboring the Membrane Proximal External Region), Group L combined virosome-rgp41 plus virosome-P1, and Group M placebo virosomes. Vaccination induced plasma binding but no neutralizing antibodies. Five weeks after boosting, all RMs were challenged intravaginally with low-dose SHIVSF162P3 until persistent systemic infection developed. After SHIV challenge #7, six controls were persistently infected versus only one Group L animal (vaccine efficacy 87%; P=0.0319); Group K was not protected. After a 50% SHIV dose increase starting with challenge #8, protection in Group L was lost. Plasmas/sera were analyzed for IgG phenotypes and effector functions; the former revealed that protection in Group L was significantly associated with increased binding to FcγR2/3(A/B) across several time-points, as were some IgG measurements. Vaginal washes contained low-level anti-gp41 IgGs and IgAs, representing a 1-to-5-fold excess over the SHIV inoculum’s gp41 content, possibly explaining loss of protection after the increase in challenge-virus dose. Virosomal gp41-vaccine efficacy was confirmed during the initial seven SHIV challenges in Indian-origin RMs when the SHIV inoculum had at least 100-fold more HIV RNA than acutely infected men’s semen. Vaccine protection by virosome-induced IgG and IgA parallels the cooperation between systemically administered IgG1 and mucosally applied dimeric IgA2 monoclonal antibodies that as single-agents provided no/low protection – but when combined, prevented mucosal SHIV transmission in all passively immunized RMs.
Natural Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors Synergize With Butyrate to Augment Chicken Host Defense Peptide Gene Expression
Authors: Yang Qing , Burkardt Amanda C. , Sunkara Lakshimi T. , Xiao Kan , Zhang Guolong
Published: February 2022

Enhancing the synthesis of microbicidal and immunomodulatory host defense peptides (HDP) is a promising host-directed antimicrobial strategy to combat a growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. Here we investigated the effect of several natural cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors on chicken HDP gene regulation. Our results indicated that phenolic COX-2 inhibitors such as quercetin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, anacardic acid, and garcinol enhanced HDP gene expression in chicken HTC macrophage cell line and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Moreover, these natural COX-2 inhibitors showed a strong synergy with butyrate in augmenting the expressions of multiple HDP genes in HTC cells and PBMCs. Additionally, quercetin and butyrate synergistically promoted the expressions of mucin-2 and claudin-1, two major genes involved in barrier function, while suppressing lipopolysaccharide-triggered interleukin-1β expression in HTC macrophages. Mechanistically, we revealed that NF-κB, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate signaling pathways were all involved in the avian β-defensin 9 gene induction, but histone H4 was not hyperacetylated in response to a combination of butyrate and quercetin. Because of their HDP-inducing, barrier-protective, and antiinflammatory activities, these natural COX-2 inhibitors, when combined with butyrate, may be developed as novel host-directed antimicrobial therapeutics.
Post-Infectious Inflammatory Response Syndrome in an HIV-Negative Immunocompetent Elderly Patient With Cryptococcal Meningitis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Liu Junyu , Liu Jia , Qin Bang-e , Yao Shiqi , Wang Anni , Yang Lu , Su Zhihui , Xu Xiaofeng , Jiang Ying , Peng Fuhua
Published: February 2022

We report a previously healthy 82-year-old male with cryptococcal meningitis (CM) who represented neurological deterioration due to post-infectious inflammatory response syndrome (PIIRS) occurring in 4 months after initial antifungal therapy. He was treated with corticosteroids for 2 months and recovered clinically. However, the clinical manifestation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results got worse again on the next day after corticosteroid withdrawal. The analysis of inflammatory cytokines and culture on CSF, as well as brain MRI, still suggested a diagnosis of PIIRS. Therefore, corticosteroid therapy was used again and he subsequently obtained a complete resolution of symptoms.
Adoptive Cell Therapy in Pediatric and Young Adult Solid Tumors: Current Status and Future Directions
Authors: Ligon John A. , Wessel Kristin M. , Shah Nirali N. , Glod John
Published: February 2022

Advances from novel adoptive cellular therapies have yet to be fully realized for the treatment of children and young adults with solid tumors. This review discusses the strategies and preliminary results, including T-cell, NK-cell and myeloid cell-based therapies. While each of these approaches have shown some early promise, there remain challenges. These include poor trafficking to the tumor as well as a hostile tumor microenvironment with numerous immunosuppressive mechanisms which result in exhaustion of cellular therapies. We then turn our attention to new strategies proposed to address these challenges including novel clinical trials that are ongoing and in development.
Warming Alters the Relationship Between Benthic Cover and Herbivores on Hawaiian Reefs
Authors: Foo Shawna A. , Teague Christopher H. , Asner Gregory P.
Published: February 2022

Increases in sea surface temperature impact animal metabolism, which in turn could influence benthic structure and resulting algal-coral balance. We utilized a long-term coral reef dataset from the west coast of Hawai‘i Island to investigate impacts of annual positive and negative sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) on benthic cover [algal turf, macroalgae, crustose coralline algae (CCA), and coral], herbivore density (sea urchins, grazers, browsers, and scrapers) and the relationship between benthic cover and herbivore density. Results showed significantly lower coral cover, but higher CCA cover with positive SSTA. Additionally, the density of sea urchins, grazers and browsers increased with increasing SSTA. Warming disrupted the normal relationship between herbivores and benthic cover on reefs, particularly for grazers where higher densities were coupled with lower algal turf cover only during negative SSTA. The direction of the relationship between benthic cover and herbivore type changed with positive SSTA, where increased algal turf cover was associated with increased herbivore density. Here, herbivores are likely responding accordingly to increases in food availability due to increased metabolism under warming. Despite herbivore populations increasing in density over the past two decades, algal turf cover remains on an upward trajectory. These results indicate that warming can alter herbivore-algal dynamics, where greater herbivore densities may be required to cause a reduction in algal turf cover. Protection of herbivores in addition to reducing nutrient input onto reefs will be essential in driving a reduction in algal turf cover on Hawaiian reefs.
Simultaneous Removal and Extraction of Bisphenol A and 4-tert-butylphenol From Water Samples Using Magnetic Chitosan Particles
Authors: Almakhathi Ameen A. S. , Zeeshan Muhammad , Shah Jasmin , Jan Muhammad Rasul
Published: February 2022

Magnetic chitosan (MC) was used as an ecofriendly and potential adsorbent for the removal of bisphenol-A and 4-tert-butylphenol from water samples. The magnetic chitosan was synthesized and characterized for functional groups, surface morphology, elemental composition, and crystallinity using spectroscopic techniques. Factors influencing the uptake such as pH, mass of adsorbent, bisphenol-A and 4-tert-butylphenol concentration, contact time, and temperature were examined thoroughly using aqueous solutions. Equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic parameters were evaluated, and the results revealed that the adsorption of bisphenol-A and 4-tert-butylphenol followed pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The adsorption processes were exothermic and spontaneous. The method was found feasible for the removal and extraction of bisphenol-A and 4-tert-butylphenol in environmental water samples. The recovery of bisphenol A and 4-tert-butylphenol in tap water ranged from 95.6% to 96.8% and 95.4% to 101.2% and in river water from 87.6% to 95.9% and 92.8% to 98.2%, respectively. The results indicate that magnetic chitosan is a potential adsorbent for easy, effective removal and extraction of bisphenol-A and 4-tert-butylphenol from environmental water samples, and the adsorbent material is chemically benign and environment friendly.
Serum Myoglobin Is Associated With Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury in Stanford Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Yang Chen , Hou Peng , Wang Dongxu , Wang Zhenguo , Duan Weixun , Liu Jincheng , Yu Shiqiang , Fu Feng , Jin Zhenxiao
Published: February 2022

Background

The correlation between rhabdomyolysis and postoperative acute kidney injury has been reported in several surgical procedures. As a good predictor of rhabdomyolysis-related acute kidney injury, an elevated serum myoglobin level was often observed after total aortic arch replacement combined with frozen elephant trunk implantation. However, the correlation between serum myoglobin and acute kidney injury in such patients had not been established.

Methods

Totally 398 stanford type A aortic dissection patients who underwent total aortic arch replacement combined with frozen elephant trunk implantation were enrolled in this retrospective study. The correlations between serum myoglobin and acute kidney injury as well as the 30-day mortality were assessed.

Results

Overall, 268(67.3%) patients had acute kidney injury (KDIGO stage 1 or higher) and 75(18.8%) had severe acute kidney injury (KDIGO stage 2&3). Patients who developed acute kidney injury had higher level of perioperative serum myoglobin than patients without acute kidney injury. After adjusting for known acute kidney injury risk factors, logarithmically transformed preoperative serum myoglobin [OR = 1.58 (95% CI, 1.26–1.95), P < 0.001] and postoperative day 1 serum myoglobin [OR = 3.47 (95%CI, 2.27–5.29), P < 0.001] were associated with severe acute kidney injury. These correlation persisted after adjustment for decline in filtration via change in serum creatinine (ΔCr) and biomarkers of cardiac and kidney injury, including N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide, cardiac troponin I, creatine kinase-MB, serum creatinine and Cystatin C. Compared with the clinical model, sMb considerably improved the risk discrimination and reclassification for AKI.

Conclusion

For stanford type A aortic dissection patients underwent total aortic arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk implantation, serum myoglobin can improve postoperative acute kidney injury risk classification. Rhabdomyolysis may be an important supplement to the existing knowledge on the mechanism of acute kidney injury.
Characterization of Different Molecular Size Fractions of Glomalin-Related Soil Protein From Forest Soil and Their Interaction With Phenanthrene
Authors: Zhou Xian , Wang Jian , Jiang Yi , Leng Ganghua , Vasilyeva Galina K. , Waigi Michael Gatheru , Gao Yanzheng
Published: February 2022

As a natural organic compound secreted by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) is an important part in soil, affecting the bioavailability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in it. Previous research have demonstrated that GRSP could enhance the availability of PAHs in the soil and favor their accumulation in plant roots. However, a scarcity of research exists on the different molecular weights of GRSP interacting with PAHs due to their complexation and heterogeneity. In this research, the extracted GRSP in soil was divided into three molecular weight (Mw) fractions of GRSP (<3,000, 3,000–10,000, and >10,000 Da), whose characteristics and binding capacity of PAHs were conducted by using UV–visible absorption, quenching fluorometry and, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results showed that the GRSP was composed of abundant compounds, it has a wide distribution of molecular weight, and the >10,000 Da Mw fraction was dominant. For three Mw fractions of GRSP, they have some difference in spectral features, for example, the >10,000 Da fraction showed higher dissolved organic carbon (DOC) contents, more phenolic hydroxyl groups, and stronger UV adsorption capacity than the low and middle Mw fractions. In addition, the interaction between GRSP and phenanthrene is related to the characteristics of the Mw fractions, especially the phenolic hydroxyl group, which has a significantly positive correlation with a binding coefficient of KA (k = 0.992, p < 0.01). Simultaneously, hydrophobic, NH-π, and H-bound also played roles in the complexation of phenanthrene with GRSP. These findings suggested that different GRSPMw fractions could influence the fate, availability, and toxicity of PAHs in soil by their interaction.
Construction of Environmental Synthetic Microbial Consortia: Based on Engineering and Ecological Principles
Authors: Liang Yu , Ma Anzhou , Zhuang Guoqiang
Published: February 2022

In synthetic biology, engineering principles are applied to system design. The development of synthetic microbial consortia represents the intersection of synthetic biology and microbiology. Synthetic community systems are constructed by co-cultivating two or more microorganisms under certain environmental conditions, with broad applications in many fields including ecological restoration and ecological theory. Synthetic microbial consortia tend to have high biological processing efficiencies, because the division of labor reduces the metabolic burden of individual members. In this review, we focus on the environmental applications of synthetic microbial consortia. Although there are many strategies for the construction of synthetic microbial consortia, we mainly introduce the most widely used construction principles based on cross-feeding. Additionally, we propose methods for constructing synthetic microbial consortia based on traits and spatial structure from the perspective of ecology to provide a basis for future work.
Five Plant Natural Products Are Potential Type III Secretion System Inhibitors to Effectively Control Soft-Rot Disease Caused by Dickeya
Authors: Hu Anqun , Hu Ming , Chen Shanshan , Xue Yang , Tan Xu , Zhou Jianuan
Published: February 2022

Dickeya zeae, a plant soft-rot pathogen, possesses a type III secretion system (T3SS) as one of the major virulence factors, infecting a wide variety of monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous plants and causing serious losses to the production of economic crops. In order to alleviate the problem of pesticide resistance during bacterial disease treatment, compounds targeting at T3SS have been screened using a hrpA-gfp bioreporter. After screening by Multifunctional Microplate Reader and determining by flow cytometer, five compounds including salicylic acid (SA), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), cinnamyl alcohol (CA), p-coumaric acid (PCA), and hydrocinnamic acid (HA) significantly inhibiting hrpA promoter activity without affecting bacterial growth have been screened out. All the five compounds reduced hypersensitive response (HR) on non-host tobacco leaves and downregulated the expression of T3SS, especially the master regulator encoding gene hrpL. Inhibition efficacy of the five compounds against soft rot were also evaluated and results confirmed that the above compounds significantly lessened the soft-rot symptoms caused by Dickeya dadantii 3937 on potato, Dickeya fangzhongdai CL3 on taro, Dickeya oryzae EC1 on rice, and D. zeae MS2 on banana seedlings. Findings in this study provide potential biocontrol agents for prevention of soft-rot disease caused by Dickeya spp.
Pan-Cancer Transcriptome and Immune Infiltration Analyses Reveal the Oncogenic Role of Far Upstream Element-Binding Protein 1 (FUBP1)
Authors: Wang Huan , Zhang Rui , Li Erliang , Yan Rongbao , Ma Baoan , Ma Qiong
Published: February 2022

Despite increasing evidence to support the relationship between FUBP1 and tumorigenesis in some types of cancers, there have been no analyses from a pan-cancer perspective. Here, we are the first to investigate the putative oncogenic role of FUBP1 in 33 cancer types based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Dysregulated FUBP1 expression was observed in most cancer types, and high FUBP1 expression suggests poor prognosis in cancers such as ACC, KICH, LIHC, LUAD, LUSC, SARC, CESC, and SKCM. Missense mutation is the most common type of FUBP1 mutation, and R430 in KH_4 is a predominant mutation site. Enhanced phosphorylation of FUBP1 at the S120 site has been observed in clear cell RCC, lung adenocarcinoma, and pediatric brain cancer specimens from African-American and Asian individuals. The expression of FUBP1 was found to be negatively correlated with the infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes in GBM, HNSC-HPV- and UCEC but positively correlated with that of tumor-associated fibroblasts in CESC, ESCA, HNSC, LIHC, LUAD, PAAD, and THYM. Furthermore, RNA splicing and spliceosome signaling were predominantly enriched in both GO and KEGG analyses of the functional mechanism of FUBP1. Briefly, this pan-cancer analysis comprehensively revealed the multifaceted characteristics and oncogenic role of FUBP1 in different human cancers.
Association Between Dystonia-Related Genetic Loci and Parkinson's Disease in Eastern China
Authors: Yang Wen-Yi , Jiang Si-Si , Pu Jia-Li , Jin Chong-Yao , Gao Ting , Zheng Ran , Tian Jun , Zhang Bao-Rong
Published: February 2022

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) and dystonia are closely related in terms of pathophysiology and clinical manifestations, but their common genetic characteristics remain unclear. Some genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and replication studies have revealed correlations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the ARSG, BDNF, NALCN, OR4X2, KIAA1715, and OR4B1 genes and dystonia. This study was conducted to assess the association between these genetic loci and PD in a population from Eastern China.

Methods

We genotyped the SNPs (rs11655081 of ARSG; rs6265 of BDNF; rs61973742, rs1338051, rs9518384, and rs9518385 of NALCN; rs67863238 of OR4X2; rs10930717 of KIAA1715; and rs35875350 of OR4B1) in a cohort of 474 patients with PD and 439 healthy controls from East China. To determine the genotypes of these SNPs, we used an Agena MassARRAY Typer 4.0. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs were computed to evaluate the correlations between these SNPs and the risk of PD.

Results

There were significant differences in the genotype distribution (OR = 0.649, 95% CI = 0.478–0.880) and minor allele frequency (MAF) (OR = 0.703, 95% CI = 0.533–0.929) of SNP rs61973742 (NALCN) between patients with PD and healthy controls. A significant difference was detected in the genotype distribution of rs11655081 (ARSG) (OR = 1.486, 95% CI = 1.080–2.045).

Conclusion

Single nucleotide polymorphisms rs11655081 (ARSG) and rs61973742 (NALCN) may be associated with PD. The C allele of rs11655081 may increase the risk of PD, whereas the G allele of rs61973742 may be a protective factor.
Relationship Between Body-Specific Attention to a Paretic Limb and Real-World Arm Use in Stroke Patients: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Otaki Ryoji , Oouchida Yutaka , Aizu Naoki , Sudo Tamami , Sasahara Hiroshi , Saito Yuki , Takemura Sunao , Izumi Shin-Ichi
Published: February 2022

Learned nonuse is a major problem in upper limb (UL) rehabilitation after stroke. Among the various factors that contribute to learned nonuse, recent studies have focused on body representation of the paretic limb in the brain. We previously developed a method to measure body-specific attention, as a marker of body representation of the paretic limb and revealed a decline in body-specific attention to the paretic limb in chronic stroke patients by a cross-sectional study. However, longitudinal changes in body-specific attention and paretic arm use in daily life (real-world arm use) from the onset to the chronic phase, and their relationship, remain unknown. Here, in a longitudinal, prospective, observational study, we sought to elucidate the longitudinal changes in body-specific attention to the paretic limb and real-world arm use, and their relationship, by using accelerometers and psychophysical methods, respectively, in 25 patients with subacute stroke. Measurements were taken at baseline (TBL), 2 weeks (T2w), 1 month (T1M), 2 months (T2M), and 6 months (T6M) after enrollment. UL function was measured using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). Real-world arm use was measured using accelerometers on both wrists. Body-specific attention was measured using a visual detection task. The UL function and real-world arm use improved up to T6M. Longitudinal changes in body-specific attention were most remarkable at T1M. Changes in body-specific attention up to T1Mcorrelated positively with changes in real-world arm use up to T6M, and from T1Mto T6M, and the latter more strongly correlated with changes in real-world arm use. Changes in real-world arm use up to T2Mcorrelated positively with changes in FMA up to T2Mand T6M. No correlation was found between body-specific attention and FMA scores. Thus, these results suggest that improved body-specific attention to the paretic limb during the early phase contributes to increasing long-term real-world arm use and that increased real-world use is associated with the recovery of UL function. Our results may contribute to the development of rehabilitation strategies to enhance adaptive changes in body representation in the brain and increase real-world arm use after stroke.