bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracking Liquefied Natural Gas Fuelled Ship’s Emissions via Formaldehyde Deposition in Marine Boundary Layer
Authors: ÇALIŞKAN Ufuk Yakup , ZİNCİR Burak
Published: December 2022

One of the reasons that anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions estimation is imprecise is the uncertainty of aerosol impacts on cloud properties. Maritime transportation is slowly changing fuel preferences. With the policy framework changing regulations, the shipping business is going in a direction that emits less sulfur dioxide and black carbon, which are the compounds that cause linear cloud formations known as ship tracks. Aside from their effects on the total radiative forcing of a transportation mean, this phenomenon enables the detection of ships via satellite imagery sensors. The rapidly increasing trend of shifting propulsion of maritime transportation from conventional heavy fuel oil and distillate marine fuels to liquefied natural gas causes enormous hikes in methane emissions. Therefore, oxidation of the volatile organic compound in the marine boundary layer by the hydroxyl radical in the troposphere makes significant deposition of formaldehyde which causes human effects, ecosystem damage, and climate impact. The primary triggering substance among the compounds in the ship plume is methane. This paper discusses methods to assess near real time tracking of anomalies and the deposition of the short lived substance in different seasons in one of the main occurring areas, shipping corridors. The study also employs anomaly map analysis for June and December 2010 and 2020. Several global tracking methods are available with satellites, monitoring experiments, and other satellite tracking tools. Apart from a few areas the results are not indicative since the formaldehyde formations caused by LNG fueled ships are not widespread enough alongside with overall LNG fueled fleet. On the other hand, the analysis and method are promising for the follow-up of the emissions in the future.
Ballast Water Problem: Current Status and Expected Challenges
Authors: BİLGİN GÜNEY Ceren
Published: December 2022

Transporting non-native species in ballast tanks has been a major challenge over the years. The number of surviving species in the host environment is quite small compared to those of all introduced. However, even a single species can cause great harm to the environment, economy, and public health. Ballast water treatment issues are difficult and complex as the performance of the treatment is highly affected by the variable characteristics of the seawater. In addition, targeted organisms are in a wide spectrum. The International Convention on the Control and Management of Ship Ballast Water and Sediments requires ships to manage ballast water with a Type Approved System in compliance with the Ballast water discharge standard defined in the Convention. The Ballast Water Management Systems Approval (G8) Guide was revised in 2016 and accepted as the BWMS Code (Ballast Water Management Systems Approval Code) as the mandatory regime in 2018. According to the implementation schedule of this mandatory approval regime, the ballast water management system installed on or after 28 October 2020 must be type-approved according to the IMO’s revised G8 requirements. Several systems use different methods with their limitations. However, the ballast water problem does not seem to end only with the installation of the systems on ships. Although substantial international progress has been made in ballast water management (both technically and regulatory), there are still several issues regarding effectiveness, compliance monitoring, and the environment.
Recent Update on the Distribution of Alien and Neonative Fishes in the Aegean Sea
Authors: AYDIN İlker , YILDIRIM Önder , TOPÇUOĞLU Kıvanç , YAPICI Sercan
Published: December 2022

The Mediterranean Sea is considered an aquatic biodiversity hotspot that hosts approximately 782 fish species and 72 of them are categorized as endemic. However, non-native species introductions that are of natural or human-mediated origin have posed a major threat to the biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea which is showing high rates of endemism. Here, we represent historical and recent updated data alien (Champsodon nudivittis, Nemipterus randalli, Pterois miles, Scarus ghobban, Scomberomorus commerson), neonative (Seriola fasciata, Sphoeroides pachygaster) fishes spreading on the Aegean Sea.
Ukrainian banks under the conditions of martial law
Authors:   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”, BORTNIKOV Gennadiy
Published: December 2022

In the conditions of martial law, Ukrainian banks have reduced their credit activity, which is largely due not to the deterioration of the resource base, but to the increase in credit risks. State-owned banks were the most vulnerable to the shock caused by the war. There is too large a share of bank income in total interest income from securities transactions, for some banks it is so large that it is more in line with the investment bank business model. Very large investments in government securities carry the potential risk of recognition of losses and the need to form reserves in amounts that can be compared to equity. The rate of formation of reserves for such financial instruments is very slow. State-owned banks were the most vulnerable to the shock caused by the war. The main reason for unprofitability is the formation of reserves. The impact of the trade outcome is significant for state-owned banks and banks with local capital. It is supposed that the National Bank could recommend banks to set limit values of appetite for the risk of investments in securities. In order to monitor the financial condition of banks, it is suggested to use the ratio between reserve formation costs and interest income to analyze the nature of losses or profits of banks. During the war, many production capacities of the holdings were damaged and require investment expenditures for their reconstruction or some time to restore functionality, or their collateral value will be hopelessly lost. Crisis measures should include the sale of part of the assets and the relocation of production facilities. Therefore, a special program of preferential early financing of investment projects is extremely necessary for the recovery of the national economy.
Pelatihan Pemurnian Minyak Nilam Hasil Suling Konvensional Masyarakat Di Opaasi Kecamatan Ranomeeto Barat Kabupaten Konawe Selatan Melalui Teknik Filtrasi Sederhana
Authors: Alimin Alimin , Agusu La , Zani Munirwan , Alham Alham , Fadjrin Muhammad Ilham
Published: December 2022

Masyarakat desa Opaasi menanam nilam dimulai sejak tahun 2014. Masalah pertama adalah terletak pada manajemen produksi yakni petani nilam di desa Opaasi sampai saat ini belum memiliki alat penyulingan sehingga harus membawa hasil panen nilam mereka ke kecamatan Landono. Masalah berikutnya yang muncul adalah rendahnya kualitas minyak nilam hasil sulingan minyak yang diperoleh dari penyulingan. Penampakan minyak nilam yang dihasilkan dari penyulingan tersebut berwarna cokelat tua kemerahan yang mengindikasikan bahwa minyak nilam yang dihasilkan dari penyulingan tersebut belum memenuhi baku mutu minyak nilam sesuai SNI 06-2385-2006. Minyak nilam cokelat tua hasil sulingan tersebut harga yang masih relatif murah. Tim pengabdi memberikan solusi dengan teknologi sederhana yakni teknik penyulingan sederhana yang dilanjutkan dengan teknik filtrasi sederhana. Teknik filtrasi sederhana berbasis silika, arang aktif dan mangan terhadap minyak nilam maka minyak nilam tersebut diharapkan memenuhi baku mutu minyak nilam sesuai SNI 06-2385-2006 sehingga nilai jual minyak nilam tersebut praktis akan meningkat. Jika minyak nilam produk lokal di desa Opaasi dikelola dengan manajemen produksi dan pemasaran yang lebih baik, maka pendapatan petani nilam akan meningkat secara siginifikan dan berkelanjutan.Kata Kunci: Minyak Nilam, Desa Opaasi, penyaringan sederhana, destilasi sederhana.
PENDAMPINGAN OPTIMALISASI LAYANAN KELURAHAN ABELI KOTA KENDARI
Authors: Djafar Muh. Kabil , Sani Asrul , Somayasa Wayan , Tenriawaru Andi , Ruslan Ruslan , Budiman Herdi , Aswani Aswani
Published: December 2022

Pelaksanaan program kegiatan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat Terintegrasi Kuliah Kerja Nyata–Tematik bertujuan untuk meningkatkan optimalisasi layanan masyarakat, dengan memanfaatkan  sumberdaya yang tersedia pada Kelurahan Abeli. Metode pelaksanaan kegiatan ini dengan cara   memberikan pendampingan pembuatan Sistem Informasi Kelurahan, pendampingan  penguatan literasi dan numerasi di sekolah, pendampingan sosialisasi Pola Hidup Bersih dan Sehat, dan pendataan kasus stunting. Hasil dari kegiatan PkM terintegrasi KKN-Tematik adalah mitra dalam hal ini Kelurahan Abeli telah memiliki Sistem Informasi Kelurahan berbasis web, terjadi peningkatan motivasi siswa dalam literasi dan numerasi melalui belajar bersama dan berbagai permainan, dan diperolehnya data awal kasus stunting di sekolah.
Edukasi Pentingnya Cuci Tangan Dengan Baik Dan Benar Dalam Upaya Pencegahan Penyakit Diare Pada Anak Sekolah Dasar (SD) 94 Kendari
Authors: Lestari Hariati , Tosepu Ramadhan , Muchtar Febriana , Effendy Devi Savitri , Bahar Hartati , Ahmad La Ode Ali Imran , Asfian Pitrah
Published: December 2022

Diare adalah suatu kondisi saat seseorang buang air besar dengan konsistensi lembek atau cair, bahkan dapat berupa air saja dan frekuensinya lebih sering (biasanya tiga kali atau lebih) dalam satu hari. Mencuci tangan dengan baik dan benar bisa di katakan optimal untuk menghilangkan kuman ditangan, sehingga saat seseorang makan, dapat terhindar dari kuman di tangan yang akan masuk kedalam tubuh, yang pada akhirnya menimbulkan gejala penyakit termasuk diare. Metode edukasi ini di awali dengan pemberian pengetahuan mengenai peran cuci tangan dengan baik dan benar dalam pencegahan diare, kemudian di lanjutkan dengan kegiatan senam 6 langkah cuci tangan untuk membangunkan minat anak-anak dalam penerimaan edukasi. Sebelum di lakukan edukasi anak-anak tidak mengerti apa yang dimaksud dengan diare dan bagaimana cara mencuci tangan dengan baik dan benar. Sampel dari kegiatan kami adalah 31 siswa/siswi SDN 94 Kendari yang dianggap strategis karena pada usia ini adalah usia yang masih belum memiliki pengetahuan yang baik mengenai penyakit diare dan kemungkinan besar sudah mampu memahami pertanyaan yang akan kami berikan melalui pemberian kuisioner sebagai tolak ukur pengetahuan siswa/siswi. Setelah di lakukan kegiatan anak-anak memiliki pengetahuan mengenai penyakit diare dan bagaimana cara mencuci tangan dengan baik dan benar. masih banyak anak-anak yang tidak tahu apa yang dimaksud dengan penyakit diare, sehingga untuk pencegahan penyakit diare dengan cara yang termudah dalam kehidupan sehari-hari mereka pun belum paham yaitu dengan mencuci tangan dengan baik dan benar. Namun. Setelaah dilakukannya ragkaian kegiatan edukasi maka di dapatkan hasil bahwa semua siswa/siswi yang mengikuti jalannya kegiatan telah mengetahui apa yang dimaksud dengan penyakit diare dan bagaimana cara pencegahan penyakit diare yang paling mudah yaitu mencuci tangan dengan baik dan benar.
Biased instantaneous regional muscle activation maps: Embedded fuzzy topology and image feature analysis
Authors: De la Fuente Carlos , Weinstein Alejandro , Neira Alejandro , Valencia Oscar , Cruz-Montecinos Carlos , Silvestre Rony , Pincheira Patricio A. , Palma Felipe , Carpes Felipe P.
Published: December 2022

The instantaneous spatial representation of electrical propagation produced by muscle contraction may introduce bias in surface electromyographical (sEMG) activation maps. Here, we described the effect of instantaneous spatial representation (sEMG segmentation) on embedded fuzzy topological polyhedrons and image features extracted from sEMG activation maps. We analyzed 73,008 topographic sEMG activation maps from seven healthy participants (age 21.4 ± 1.5 years and body mass 74.5 ± 8.5 kg) who performed submaximal isometric plantar flexions with 64 surface electrodes placed over the medial gastrocnemius muscle. Window lengths of 50, 100, 150, 250, 500, and 1,000 ms and overlap of 0, 25, 50, 75, and 90% to change sEMG map generation were tested in a factorial design (grid search). The Shannon entropy and volume of global embedded tri-dimensional geometries (polyhedron projections), and the Shannon entropy, location of the center (LoC), and image moments of maps were analyzed. The polyhedron volume increased when the overlap was <25% and >75%. Entropy decreased when the overlap was <25% and >75% and when the window length was <100 ms and >500 ms. The LoC in the x-axis, entropy, and the histogram moments of maps showed effects for overlap (p < 0.001), while the LoC in the y-axis and entropy showed effects for both overlap and window length (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the instantaneous sEMG maps are first affected by outer parameters of the overlap, followed by the length of the window. Thus, choosing the window length and overlap parameters can introduce bias in sEMG activation maps, resulting in distorted regional muscle activation.
Impact of m6A demethylase (ALKBH5, FTO) genetic polymorphism and expression levels on the development of pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Tian-Ping , Li Rui , Wang Li-Jun , Li Hong-Miao
Published: December 2022

Objective

The m6A methylation was involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), and our study aimed to reveal the potential association of m6A demethylase (ALKBH5, FTO) genes variation, expression levels and PTB.

Methods

Eight SNPs (ALKBH5gene rs8400, rs9913266, rs12936694, rs4925144 andFTOgene rs6499640, rs8047395, rs1121980, rs9939609) were selected for genotyping by SNPscan technique in 449 PTB patients and 463 healthy controls.

Results

The mRNA expression levels of ALKBH5, FTO were detected by qRT-PCR. There were no significant differences in genotype, allele distributions of all SNPs between PTB patients and healthy controls. Haplotype analysis demonstrated that the frequency ofFTOgene GAAA haplotype was significantly reduced in PTB patients when compared to controls.ALKBH5rs8400 AA genotype, A allele frequencies were associated with the decreased risk of sputum smear-positive, while AA genotype frequency was related to the increased risk of hypoproteinemia in PTB patients. In addition, rs9913266 variant was linked to the occurrence of drug-induced liver injury, sputum smear-positive, and rs4925144 variant was associated with leukopenia among PTB patients. InFTOgene, rs8047395 GG genotype and G allele frequencies were significantly higher in the PTB patients with drug resistance than that in the PTB patients without drug resistance. The ALKBH5, FTO expression levels were significantly decreased in PTB patients in comparison to controls. Moreover, ALKBH5 level was increased in PTB patients with drug resistance, and FTO level was decreased in PTB patients with sputum smear-positive.

Conclusion

FTOgene polymorphisms might be associated with PTB susceptibility, and ALKBH5, FTO levels were decreased in PTB patients, suggesting that these m6A demethylase played important roles in PTB.
Genome-wide association study for vascular aging highlights pathways shared with cardiovascular traits in Koreans
Authors: Ahn JaeKyoung , Jeong Hankyeol , Seo Bo-Gyeong , Park Ki-Soo , Hwangbo Cheol , Kim Han-Gyul , Koh Jin-Sin , Kim Jaemin
Published: December 2022

Vascular aging plays a pivotal role in the morbidity and mortality of older people. Reactive hyperemia index (RHI) detected by pulse amplitude tonometry (PAT) is a non-invasive measure of vascular endothelial function and aging-induced pathogenesis of both microvascular and macrovascular diseases. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to comprehensively identify germline genetic variants associated with vascular aging in a Korean population, which revealed 60 suggestive genes underlying angiogenesis, inflammatory response in blood vessels, and cardiovascular diseases. Subsequently, we show that putative protective alleles were significantly enriched in an independent population with decelerated vascular aging phenotypes. Finally, we show the differential mRNA expression levels of putative causal genes in aging human primary endothelial cells via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). These results highlight the potential contribution of genetic variants in the etiology of vascular aging and may suggest the link between vascular aging and cardiovascular traits.
The influence of testosterone on the risk of cardiovascular events after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Chiang Cheng-Hung , Hung Wan-Ting , Liu En-Shao , Yang Tse-Hsuan , Cheng Chin-Chang , Huang Wei-Chun , Mar Guang-Yuan , Kuo Feng-Yu
Published: December 2022

Methods

Between 2015 and 2018, 580 men undergoing PCI at a tertiary referral hospital were divided into low (<3.25 ng/mL) and normal (≥3.25 ng/mL) testosterone groups. Major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) was defined as the composite outcome of CV death, myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization/target vessel revascularization (TLR/TVR) during up to 48 months follow-up after PCI.

Results

There were 111 and 469 patients in the low and normal testosterone groups, respectively, with the overall MACE rate of the former being higher than the latter (26.13% vs. 13.01%, p = 0.0006). Moreover, the overall TLR/TVR (20.72% vs. 11.73%, p = 0.0125) and myocardial infarction (3.6% vs. 0.85%, p = 0.0255) rates were significantly higher in those with low serum testosterone who also had a shorter average event-free survival analysis of MACE (25.22 ± 0.88 months) than those with normal testosterone levels (35.09 ± 0.47 months, log-rank p = 0.0004). Multiple logistic regression demonstrated an association between low serum testosterone (<3.25 ng/mL) and a higher MACE rate [odds ratio: 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21–3.51, p = 0.0081]. After adjusting for variables in a Cox regression model, hazard ratios (HRs) for MACE (HR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.20–2.95, p = 0.0058) and TLR/TVR (HR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.06–2.83, p = 0.0290) rates were higher in the low testosterone group than those in the normal testosterone group.

Conclusion

Low serum testosterone concentrations were associated with a higher risk of MACE and TLR/TVR after PCI than those with normal testosterone levels.
Strategy for eliminating high-frequency instability caused by multi-transmitting boundary in numerical simulation of seismic site effect
Authors: Yang Yu , Li Xiaojun , Rong Mianshui , Yang Zhibo
Published: December 2022

A multi-transmitting boundary is a local artificial boundary widely used for numerically simulating seismic site effects. However, similar to other artificial boundaries, the multi-transmitting boundary has instability issue in numerical simulation. Based on the concept of multi-directional transmitting formula, a strategy for eliminating the high-frequency instability of the transmitting boundary is studied and a measure is proposed using a neighbour node of a boundary node to realize smoothing filtering. The proposed measure is verified through numerical analysis. The smoothing coefficient chosen for this measure provides a reference for deriving the coefficient of multidirectional transmitting formula in the time domain.
Reduced expression in preterm birth of sFLT-1 and PlGF with a high sFLT-1/PlGF ratio in extracellular vesicles suggests a potential biomarker
Authors: Hussein Sama , Ju Weina , Pizzella Stephanie , Flory Michael , Chu Chu , Wang Yong , Zhong Nanbert
Published: December 2022

Preterm birth may have a pathological impact on intrauterine development of the fetal brain, resulting in developmental disabilities. In this study, we examine the expression of soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF), which is one of the vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), as these play a key role in angiogenesis; in particular, we examine their effect on the sFLT-1/PlGF ratio in cases of preterm birth as compared to typical pregnancies. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed on samples of maternal-derived plasma and extracellular vesicles-exosomes (EVs-EXs) isolated at the third trimester, consisting of 17 samples from cases of preterm birth and 38 control cases. Our results showed that both sFLT-1 (P=0.0014) and PlGF (P=0.0032) were significantly downregulated in cases of preterm birth compared to controls, while the sFLT-1/PIGF ratio was significantly (P=0.0008) increased in EVs-EXs, but not in maternal plasma. Our results suggest that this reduced expression of sFLT-1 and PlGF with an elevated sFLT-1/PlGF ratio in EVs-EXs may represent a potential biomarker for prediction of PTB.
Effects of dehydroepiandrosterone alone or in combination with a high-fat diet and antibiotic cocktail on the heterogeneous phenotypes of PCOS mouse models by regulating gut microbiota
Authors: Wang Xuejiao , Gu Liping , Zhang Yahui , Xiong Chuanhao , Peng Yongde , Ding Xiaoying
Published: December 2022

Objective

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine and metabolic disease. The gut microbiota is highly correlated with androgen secretion and insulin resistance (IR), which are two potential major pathogenic mechanisms of PCOS. Currently, an antibiotic cocktail (ABX) is often used to construct pseudo germ-free mouse models for studies on the gut microbiota and PCOS. Our work aimed to study the effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a high-fat diet (HFD) and ABX on the heterogeneous phenotypes of PCOS mouse models by regulating the gut microbiota.

Methods

PCOS mouse models were established by subcutaneous injection of DHEA alone or in combination with a HFD in wild-type and pseudo germ-free mice. The changes in ovary morphology and sex hormonal and glycolipid metabolic parameters were evaluated.

Results

Wild-type mice treated with DHEA or DHEA+HFD showed a PCOS-like phenotype of hyperandrogenism, anovulation and polycystic ovaries. The former was combined with hyperinsulinemia and IR, while the latter was combined with glucolipid metabolic disorders, extremely heterogeneous hyperinsulinemia and IR. The phenotype of PCOS mice, especially the metabolic parameters, was correlated with the gut microbiota. The pseudo germ-free mice treated with DHEA or DHEA+HFD also showed a PCOS-like phenotype. However, DHEA could not induce hyperinsulinemia or IR in pseudo germ-free mice. Pseudo germ-free mice treated with DHEA+HFD exhibited decreased serum AMH level, glucolipid metabolic disorders and IR. Compared with the wild-type mice, the pseudo germ-free mice treated with DHEA showed significantly higher testosterone and lipid levels and lower blood glucose levels, and they did not present with hyperinsulinemia or IR.

Conclusion

A better and stabilized mouse model simulating the pathophysiological defects of PCOS was induced by DHEA alone rather than by DHEA+HFD. The ABX intervention improved glucose metabolic disorders and hyperinsulinemia but aggravated the hyperandrogenism and lipid metabolic disorders of the PCOS mice. This study suggests that the gut microbiota plays an important role in the heterogeneous phenotypes of PCOS mouse models.
Exercise and nutrition in type 1 diabetes: Insights from the FinnDiane cohort
Authors: Pongrac Barlovic Drazenka , Harjutsalo Valma , Groop Per-Henrik
Published: December 2022

Type 1 diabetes is a challenging disease, characterized by dynamic changes in the insulin need during life periods, seasons of the year, but also by everyday situations. In particular, changes in insulin need are evident before, during and after exercise and having meals. In the midst of different life demands, it can be very burdensome to achieve tight glycemic control to prevent late diabetes complications, and at the same time, to avoid hypoglycemia. Consequently, many individuals with type 1 diabetes are faced with diabetes distress, decreasing profoundly their quality of life. Today, the nationwide Finnish Diabetic Nephropathy (FinnDiane) Study, launched in 1997, has gathered data from more than 8,000 well-characterized individuals with type 1 diabetes, recruited from 93 centers all over Finland and has established its position as the world’s leading project on studying complications in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Studying risk factors and mechanisms of diabetes complications is inconceivable without trying to understand the effects of exercise and nutrition on glycemic control and the development of diabetes complications. Therefore, in this paper we provide findings regarding food and exercise, accumulated during the 25 years of studying lives of Finnish people with type 1 diabetes.
How to improve the production of peptidyl compounds in filamentous fungi
Authors: Umemura Maiko , Tamano Koichi
Published: December 2022

Peptidyl compounds produced by filamentous fungi, which are nonribosomal peptides (NRPs) and ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs), are rich sources of bioactive compounds with a wide variety of structures. Some of these peptidyl compounds are useful as pharmaceuticals and pesticides. However, for industrial use, their low production often becomes an obstacle, and various approaches have been challenged to overcome this weakness. In this article, we summarize the successful attempts to increase the production of NRPs and RiPPs in filamentous fungi and present our perspectives on how to improve it further.
Marker assisted backcrossing of alcobaca gene into two elite tomato breeding lines
Authors: Kwabena Osei Michael , Danquah Agyemang , Adu-Dapaah Hans , Danquah Eric , Blay Essi , Massoudi Mark , Maxwell Douglas
Published: December 2022

Tomato is one of the most important vegetable crops cultivated and consumed worldwide. Demand is increasing daily because of increase in per capita fresh fruit consumption. Despite the economic importance of tomato, it has relatively short shelf-life after ripening and experiences remarkable post-harvest losses. This study was aimed at using marker-assisted backcrossing (MABC) to transfer shelf-life gene (alc) into the genetic background of two elite Ghanaian tomato breeding lines. The MABC derived lines at BC2F3 were evaluated to confirm selections using molecular markers. All the MABC-derived lines gave significant extended shelf life compared to the checks except for Alc-LA3134, the alc donor parent, which was, however, not significantly different from one of the backcrosses (BC2F2.3-E-80-19-26). This confirms that the genetic regulation of the shelf-life trait is dependent on the alc gene. The performance of the donor check (Alc-LA3134) against the 12 MABC-derived lines indicated no significant differences for the fruit firmness (except for BC2F2.3-E-80-19-4), number of locules per fruit and shelf life (for only BC2F2.3-E-80-19-26), thus suggesting similar backgrounds of the MABC as the recurrent parents. A considerable increase in the shelf-life value was observed among the MABC-derived lines. The introgression of the alc gene into cultivated tomatoes for extended shelf-life could reduce post-harvest losses of tomato in Ghana.
Epithelial-derived galectin-9 containing exosomes contribute to the immunomodulatory effects promoted by 2’-fucosyllactose and short-chain galacto- and long-chain fructo-oligosaccharides
Authors: Ayechu-Muruzabal Veronica , de Boer Merel , Blokhuis Bart , Berends Alinda J. , Garssen Johan , Kraneveld Aletta D. , van’t Land Belinda , Willemsen Linette E. M.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Early life exposure to non-digestible oligosaccharides (NDO) or microbial components is known to affect immune development. NDO in combination with a TLR9 agonist mimicking bacterial triggers (CpG) promoted the secretion of galectins through unknown pathways. We aimed to study the contribution of exosomes in epithelial galectin secretion and subsequent immunoregulation upon exposure to a mixture of NDO by inhibiting exosome biogenesis.

Methods

Human intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) (FHs 74 Int or HT-29) were apically exposed to 2’-fucosyllactose (2’FL) and short-chain galacto- and long-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (GF), alone or with CpG. Basolaterally, non-activated or αCD3/CD28-activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were added. After 24 h incubation, IEC were washed and incubated in fresh medium to analyze epithelial-derived galectin secretion. Additionally, before exposure to NDO and CpG, IEC were exposed to GW4869 to inhibit exosome biogenesis. After 24 h of incubation, IEC were washed and incubated for additional 24 h in the presence of GW4869, after which epithelial-derived galectin secretion was studied. Also, epithelial-derived exosomes were isolated to study the presence of galectins within the exosomes.

Results

Compared to CpG alone, exposure to 2’FL/GF mixture and CpG, significantly enhanced Th1-type IFNγ, and regulatory IEC-derived galectin-9 secretion in the HT-29/PBMC model. Similarly, in the FHs 74 Int/PBMC co-culture, 2’FL/GF induced immunomodulatory effects in the absence of CpG. Interestingly, galectin-9 and -4 were present in CD63-expressing exosomes isolated from HT-29 supernatants after IEC/PBMC co-culture. Exposure to GW4869 suppressed 2’FL/GF and CpG induced epithelial-derived galectin-9 secretion, which subsequently prevented the rise in IL-10 and reduction in IL-13 secretion observed in the HT-29/PBMC co-culture model upon exposure to 2’FL/GF and CpG.

Discussion

Exposure to 2’FL/GF and CpG or 2’FL/GF promoted Th1-type regulatory effects in HT-29/PBMC or FHs 74 Int/PBMC co-culture respectively, while Th2-type IL-13 was reduced in association with increased galectin-9 release. Galectin-9 and -4 were present in exosomes from HT-29 and the inhibition of exosome biogenesis inhibited epithelial-derived galectin secretion. This, also affected immunomodulatory effects in IEC/PBMC co-culture suggesting a key role of galectin expressing IEC-derived exosomes in the mucosal immune regulation induced by NDO.
Endothelial glycocalyx in hepatopulmonary syndrome: An indispensable player mediating vascular changes
Authors: Li Liang , Cook Christopher , Liu Yale , Li Jianzhong , Jiang Jiantao , Li Shaomin
Published: December 2022

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a serious pulmonary vascular complication that causes respiratory insufficiency in patients with chronic liver diseases. HPS is characterized by two central pathogenic features—intrapulmonary vascular dilatation (IPVD) and angiogenesis. Endothelial glycocalyx (eGCX) is a gel-like layer covering the luminal surface of blood vessels which is involved in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological processes including controlling vascular tone and angiogenesis. In terms of lung disorders, it has been well established that eGCX contributes to dysregulated vascular contraction and impaired blood-gas barrier and fluid clearance, and thus might underlie the pathogenesis of HPS. Additionally, pharmacological interventions targeting eGCX are dramatically on the rise. In this review, we aim to elucidate the potential role of eGCX in IPVD and angiogenesis and describe the possible degradation-reconstitution equilibrium of eGCX during HPS through a highlight of recent literature. These studies strongly underscore the therapeutic rationale in targeting eGCX for the treatment of HPS.
The responses of SST annual cycle in the eastern equatorial Pacific to global warming
Authors: Chen Ying-Ying , Yu Kai
Published: December 2022

The eastern equatorial Pacific exhibits a pronounced westward propagating sea surface temperature annual cycle (SSTAC). The responses of the equatorial Pacific SSTAC to CO2-induced global warming are examined using 15 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) experiments. The annual cycle patterns of global-warming simulations over 2006-2100 are compared with that of present-day simulations over 1850-2005. We see no statistically significant changes in SSTAC amplitude in the future. A coupled dynamical diagnostic framework is adopted to assess four factors, including the damping rate, phase speed and strength of the annual and semi-annual harmonic forcing of SSTAC. Under global warming, changes relative to the present-day simulations in these four diagnostic factors have a clear multi-model trend. Most coupled models exhibit relatively weaker (an average of 18%) propagation speed, and stronger annual (18%) and semi-annual (39%) external forcing. Half of the models show a relatively stronger (about one time) damping rate, while the rest show a weaker (30%) damping rate. When these four diagnostic factors are further condensed into a dynamical response factor and a forcing factor, it is revealed that the same annual cycle amplitudes with respect to the present-day simulations may result from the compensations in terms of bias in the dynamical response factor and forcing factor under increased CO2-induced warm climate.
Real-world effectiveness, long-term safety and treatment pathway integration of radium-223 therapy in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: O’Sullivan Joe M. , McKay Rana R. , Rahbar Kambiz , Fizazi Karim , George Daniel J. , Tombal Bertrand , Schmall Anja , Sandström Per , Verholen Frank , Shore Neal
Published: December 2022

Radium-223 dichloride (223Ra) is an α-emitter approved for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone metastases, but without visceral involvement. Despite being a life-prolonging therapy (LPT), 223Ra remains underutilized. A large body of real-world evidence (RWE) for 223Ra has been published in the decade since the pivotal phase 3 ALSYMPCA study, a period during which the treatment landscape has continued to evolve. How to optimize 223Ra use, including how to integrate it into the mCRPC management pathway amongst other current LPTs (i.e., with respect to timing and concurrent, layered, or sequential use), is therefore of considerable interest. RWE studies lack the conventional restraints of clinical trials and can therefore help to build an understanding of how treatments may be best used in routine practice. Here we review RWE studies investigating the efficacy and safety of 223Ra in mCRPC [including in sequence with the recently approved 177-Lutetium conjugated to the ligand prostate-specific membrane antigen (177Lu-PSMA)], as well as response marker development, imaging techniques, and current clinical practice recommendations.
Hepatic sarcoidosis with symptomatic portal hypertension: A report of 12 cases with review of the literature
Authors: Fauter Maxime , Rossi Geoffrey , Drissi-Bakhkhat Ayoub , Latournerie Marianne , Gerfaud-Valentin Mathieu , Durieu Isabelle , Jamilloux Yvan , Bailly François , Mahevas Matthieu , Sève Pascal
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatosis of unknown etiology, characterized by the presence of immune granulomas. Liver damage is a relatively common extra-pulmonary manifestation, occurring in 3.6–30% of cases. Some patients can develop symptomatic portal hypertension (PH). Few series have evaluated the prognosis of symptomatic PH as well as the efficacy and safety of specific treatment on this complication.

Methods

This is a multicenter retrospective study of cases of histologically proven hepatic sarcoidosis with symptomatic PH (ascites, digestive hemorrhage) and/or hepatic encephalopathy. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, clinical manifestations of sarcoidosis, biological data, imaging study of the liver, treatment, and clinical outcomes were collected.

Results

Twelve patients were identified, with a mean follow-up of 140 months. The M/F ratio was 1 and Caucasian origin was the most represented (75%). Seven patients presented with hepatic comorbidities: metabolic syndrome, chronic alcoholism or chronic viral hepatitis. Apart from hepatic involvement, mediastino-pulmonary involvement was the most common followed by osteoarticular and skin. Liver damage was inaugural in two thirds of cases. Nine patients developed ascites, six presented esophageal varices complicated by gastrointestinal bleeding. Three patients presented with both ascites and variceal bleeding. One case of hepatic encephalopathy was observed. Five patients presented signs of hepatocellular insufficiency during follow-up, of whom three had hepatic comorbidities. Eight out of 12 patients required second-line treatment after failure of corticosteroids, three patients underwent ligation of esophageal varices but with recurrent digestive bleeding in all cases. Two patients benefited from a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), also with poor result. At the end of follow-up, five patients were alive and seven patients died. Two patients received a liver transplant, with good result and without recurrence of sarcoidosis on the transplant thereafter. Two patients had quiet sarcoidosis on low dose of corticosteroids and one patient was lost to follow-up.

Conclusion

Symptomatic PH related to hepatic sarcoidosis is a severe complication, with high morbidity and mortality, and frequent failure of specific treatments of PH. Early management of these patients, with detection of hepatic comorbidities seems important. In case of therapeutic failure, liver transplantation is an option to consider.
Cyclic dinucleotides mediate bacterial immunity by dinucleotide cyclase in Vibrio
Authors: Lu Zengzeng , Fu Yuqian , Zhou Xueyuan , Du Hekang , Chen Qi
Published: December 2022

The cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) recognizes cytosolic DNA and synthesizes the second messenger, cGAMP, thus activating the adaptor protein stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and initiating the innate immune responses against microbial infections. cGAS-STING pathway has been crucially implicated in autoimmune diseases, cellular senescence, and cancer immunotherapy, while the cGAS-like receptors in bacteria can protect it against viral infections. Dinucleotide cyclase in Vibrio (DncV) is a dinucleotide cyclase originally identified in Vibrio cholerae. The synthesis of cyclic nucleotides by DncV, including c-di-GMP, c-di-AMP, and cGAMP mediates bacterial colonization, cell membrane formation, and virulence. DncV is a structural and functional homolog of the mammalian cytoplasmic DNA sensor, cGAS, implicating cGAS-STING signaling cascades may have originated in the bacterial immune system. Herein, we summarize the roles of DncV in bacterial immunity, which are expected to provide insights into the evolution of cGAS-STING signaling.
Contributions of face processing, social anhedonia and mentalizing to the expression of social autistic-like traits
Authors: Pieslinger Johan F. , Wiskerke Joost , Igelström Kajsa
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Quantitative autistic-like traits (QATs) are a constellation of traits that mirror those of clinical autism and are thought to share the same mechanisms as the condition. There is great interest in identifying the genetic and neurobiological basis of QATs, but progress is hindered by the composite nature of these clinically based constructs. Social QATs are defined according to the diagnostic criteria for autism, comprising multiple potential neural mechanisms that may contribute to varying degrees. The objective of this study was to decompose social QATs into more specific constructs, in line with the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC). We chose constructs with trait-like properties and known or suggested significance for autistic social function: (1) social anhedonia, (2) prosopagnosia (face blindness), and (3) mentalizing (attributing mental states to images of eyes). We hypothesized that these constructs may all contribute to observed variance in social QATs.

Methods

We recruited 148 adults with a broad range of QATs (mean age 37.9 years, range 18–69; 50% female; 5.4% autistic) to an experimental behavioral study conducted online. We estimated social QATs using the social factor of the Comprehensive Autistic Traits Inventory. We used the Oxford Face Matching Task and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test to measure face matching ability and mentalizing, respectively. Social anhedonia traits were measured with the Anticipatory and Consummatory Interpersonal Pleasure Scale, and prosopagnosic traits with the 20-item Prosopagnosia Index. A combination of frequentist and Bayesian statistics was used to test the social constructs as predictors of social QATs.

Results

We found that social anhedonic traits, prosopagnosic traits, and face matching performance were likely predictors of social QATs, whereas mentalizing showed limited contribution.

Conclusion

The findings support prosopagnosic and anhedonic traits, but not mentalizing deficits, as dimensional predictors of individual differences in social function across the autistic spectrum. Further, the study strongly suggests that social reward systems and face processing networks play significant and independent roles in autistic-like social function.
Behavioral profiling of SLC38A10 knockout mice using the multivariate concentric square fieldTM test
Authors: Lindberg Frida A. , Roman Erika , Fredriksson Robert
Published: December 2022

Introduction

SLC38A10 is a gene that encodes the SLC38A10 protein, also known as SNAT10. The SLC38 family is evolutionary old, and SLC38A10 is one of the oldest members of the family. It is ubiquitously expressed, and its substrates are glutamine, glutamate, alanine, aspartate, and serine. However, little is known about its biological importance.

Methods

In the current study, an SLC38A10 knockout mouse was run in the multivariate concentric square fieldTM (MCSF) test. The MCSF test gives the mouse a choice of areas to explore; sheltered areas, elevated and illuminated areas, or open spaces, and a behavioral profile is obtained. The multivariate data obtained were analyzed (i) for each parameter, (ii) parameters grouped into functional categories, and (iii) with a principal component analysis.

Results

In the trend analysis, knockout mice had a decreased exploratory behavior compared to controls but did not show a distinct grouping in the principal component analysis.

Discussion

There was not a pronounced difference in the behavioral profile in SLC38A10 knockout mice compared to their wild-type controls, although subtle alterations in zones associated with exploratory behavior and risk assessment in female and male knockout mice, respectively, could be observed. These results imply that a loss of function of the SLC38A10 protein in mice does not drastically alter behavior in the MSCF test.
Neurogenesis potential of oligodendrocyte precursor cells from oligospheres and injured spinal cord
Authors: Zhao Qing , Zhu Yanjing , Ren Yilong , Yin Shuai , Yu Liqun , Huang Ruiqi , Song Simin , Hu Xiao , Zhu Rongrong , Cheng Liming , Xie Ning
Published: December 2022

Severe traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to long-lasting oligodendrocyte death and extensive demyelination in the lesion area. Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) are the reservoir of new mature oligodendrocytes during damaged myelin regeneration, which also have latent potential for neurogenic regeneration and oligospheres formation. Whether oligospheres derived OPCs can differentiate into neurons and the neurogenesis potential of OPCs after SCI remains unclear. In this study, primary OPCs cultures were used to generate oligospheres and detect the differentiation and neurogenesis potential of oligospheres. In vivo, SCI models of juvenile and adult mice were constructed. Combining the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), bioinformatics analysis, immunofluorescence staining, and molecular experiment, we investigated the neurogenesis potential and mechanisms of OPCs in vitro and vivo. We found that OPCs differentiation and oligodendrocyte morphology were significantly different between brain and spinal cord. Intriguingly, we identify a previously undescribed findings that OPCs were involved in oligospheres formation which could further differentiate into neuron-like cells. We also firstly detected the intermediate states of oligodendrocytes and neurons during oligospheres differentiation. Furthermore, we found that OPCs were significantly activated after SCI. Combining scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data from injured spinal cord, we confirmed the neurogenesis potential of OPCs and the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress after SCI. Inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress could effectively attenuate OPCs death. Additionally, we also found that endoplasmic reticulum may regulate the stemness and differentiation of oligospheres. These findings revealed the neurogenesis potential of OPCs from oligospheres and injured spinal cord, which may provide a new source and a potential target for spinal cord repair.
Activation of basolateral amygdala to anterior cingulate cortex circuit alleviates MK-801 induced social and cognitive deficits of schizophrenia
Authors: Huang Xin , Li Yaohao , Liu Haiying , Xu Jinwei , Tan Zehua , Dong Haoyang , Tian Biqing , Wu Shengxi , Wang Wenting
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder with a high prevalence worldwide, however, its pathogenesis remains poorly understood.

Methods and results

In this study, we used the non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 to induce schizophrenia-like behaviors and confirmed that mice exhibited stereotypic rotational behavior and hyperlocomotion, social interaction defects and cognitive dysfunction, similar to the clinical symptoms in patients. Here, the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and basolateral amygdala (BLA) were involved in the schizophrenia-like behaviors induced by MK-801. Furthermore, we confirmed BLA sent glutamatergic projection to the ACC. Chemogenetic and optogenetic regulation of BLA-ACC projecting neurons affected social and cognitive deficits but not stereotypic rotational behavior in MK-801-treated mice.

Discussion

Overall, our study revealed that the BLA-ACC circuit plays a major role and may be a potential target for treating schizophrenia-related symptoms.
Sex-stratified RNA-seq analysis reveals traumatic brain injury-induced transcriptional changes in the female hippocampus conducive to dementia
Authors: Fiorini Michael R. , Dilliott Allison A. , Farhan Sali M. K.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), resulting from a violent force that causes functional changes in the brain, is the foremost environmental risk factor for developing dementia. While previous studies have identified specific candidate genes that may instigate worse outcomes following TBI when mutated, TBI-induced changes in gene expression conducive to dementia are critically understudied. Additionally, biological sex seemingly influences TBI outcomes, but the discrepancies in post-TBI gene expression leading to progressive neurodegeneration between the sexes have yet to be investigated.

Methods

We conducted a whole-genome RNA sequencing analysis of post-mortem brain tissue from the parietal neocortex, temporal neocortex, frontal white matter, and hippocampus of 107 donors characterized by the Aging, Dementia, and Traumatic Brain Injury Project. Our analysis was sex-stratified and compared gene expression patterns between TBI donors and controls, a subset of which presented with dementia.

Results

We report three candidate gene modules from the female hippocampus whose expression correlated with dementia in female TBI donors. Enrichment analyses revealed that the candidate modules were notably enriched in cardiac processes and the immune-inflammatory response, among other biological processes. In addition, multiple candidate module genes showed a significant positive correlation with hippocampal concentrations of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in females with post-TBI dementia, which has been previously described as a potential biomarker for TBI and susceptibility to post-injury dementia. We concurrently examined the expression profiles of these candidate modules in the hippocampus of males with TBI and found no apparent indicator that the identified candidate modules contribute to post-TBI dementia in males.

Discussion

Herein, we present the first sex-stratified RNA sequencing analysis of TBI-induced changes within the transcriptome that may be conducive to dementia. This work contributes to our current understanding of the pathophysiological link between TBI and dementia and emphasizes the growing interest in sex as a biological variable affecting TBI outcomes.