bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global, Regional, and National Burden of Cancer in Children Younger Than 5 Years, 1990–2019: Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Ren Hui-Ming , Liao Min-Qi , Tan Si-Xian , Cheng Chen , Zhu Sui , Zheng Lu , Ma Jun-Rong , Mu Ying-Jun , Li Wan-Lin , Zhang Shi-Wen , OuYang Rui-Qing , Li Shu-Na , Cui Yun-Feng , Ke Xing-Yao , Luo Ze-Yan , Xiong Peng , Liu Jun , Li Li-Ping , Liang Xiao-Feng , Zeng Fang-Fang , Su Xue-Fen , Han Li-Yuan
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To quantify the burden and variation trends of cancers in children under 5 years at the global, regional, and national levels from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Epidemiological data for children under 5 years who were diagnosed with any one childhood cancer were obtained from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) from 1990 to 2019. The outcomes were the absolute numbers and rates of incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for different types of cancer.

Results

In 2019, 8,774,979.1 incident cases (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 6,243,599.2 to11,737,568.5) and 8,956,583.8 (6,446,323.9 to 12,364,520.8) prevalent cases of cancer in children under 5 years were identified worldwide; these cancers resulted in 44,451.6 (36,198.7 to 53,905.9) deaths and 3,918,014.8 (3,196,454.9 to 4,751,304.2) DALYs. From 1990 to 2019, although the numbers of incident and prevalent cases only decreased by −4.6% (−7.0 to −2.2) and −8.3% (−12.6 to −3.4), respectively, the numbers of deaths and DALYs clearly declined by −47.8% (−60.7 to −26.4) and −47.7% (−60.7 to −26.2), respectively. In 2019, the middle sociodemographic index (SDI) regions had the highest incidence and prevalence, whereas the low SDI regions had the most mortality and DALYs. Although all of the SDI regions displayed a steady drop in deaths and DALYs between 1990 and 2019, the low-middle and low SDI regions showed increasing trends of incidence and prevalence. Leukemia remained the most common cancer globally in 2019. From 1990 to 2019, the burdens of leukemia, liver cancer, and Hodgkin's lymphoma declined, whereas the incidence and prevalence of other cancers grew, particularly testicular cancer.

Conclusions

The global childhood cancer burden in young children has been steadily decreasing over the past three decades. However, the burdens and other characteristics have varied across different regions and types of cancers. This highlights the need to reorient current treatment strategies and establish effective prevention methods to reduce the global burden of childhood cancer.
A Novel Deep Framework for English Communication Based on Educational Psychology Perspective
Authors: Wang Ying , Zheng Liang
Published: June 2022

The impact of verbal reading practices on learning is examined from the perspective of educational psychology, using the motivation theory and the schema theory. This research intends to enhance learner's English communication abilities in response to the needs for national economic growth and scientific and technological development. To motivate students to improve their English, the research may address the issue of inadequate opportunities by adding an artificial intelligence (AI) conversation mechanism to the students speaking English exercise. First, cognitive psychology is analyzed in detail, and a model based on cognitive psychology is implemented to solve the problems existing in student's English communication. In addition, various measures are presented and used to increase student's oral English communication abilities. We used sixty students from North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power are separated into two classes: Class A and Class B. The experimental group is called Class A, while the control group is called Class B. Following a comparison of the outcomes obtained before and after training. The experimental group's reading comprehension, responding to questions, situational conversation, and subject description scores rose by 13.33, 15.19, 17.39, and 28.3 %, respectively. The overall average score of the class climbed by 17.75 %, whereas the scores of pupils in Class B improved just an undersized. The results reveal that following the vocalized reading exercise, the student's English grades, self-efficacy, and topic knowledge increased considerably in the experimental group. Moreover, the proposed model, employs computer simulation in the English communication teaching system and AI, which can aid in the creation of an interactive learning environment for students to improve their spoken English and English communication abilities.
Community Conversations: Stakeholder-Identified Research Priorities to Foster Community Participation for Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disability
Authors: Bendixen Roxanna M. , Benevides Teal , Ideishi Roger , Smythe Robert , Taylor Joshua , Umeda Caroline , Kerfeld Cheryl , Jirikowic Tracy
Published: June 2022

To identify future research priorities and meaningful outcomes focused on community-level interventions for children and youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities and families, a group underrepresented in research, we established a diverse patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR) community. We focused on engaging regionally and nationally-diverse stakeholders—individuals, families, healthcare professionals, community, and policy experts—in research development activities that would build partnerships and research capacity. This community of stakeholders also represented the matrix of systems, services, and programs that people frequent in their communities (e.g., cultural arts, worship, sports and recreation, and transportation). We present the engagement process and methods for including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as stakeholders in research planning and processes. The results of planning, completing, and evaluating three face-to-face research capacity-building meetings and their subsequent stakeholder engagement activities include: (1) individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families clearly expressed a desire to be included and to feel good about their participation in community settings, (2) many of our stakeholders wanted action and change to happen in their communities now, and often did not realize or understand that research takes time, (3) organizations expressed a need for mentoring related to best practices for access and inclusive programming. Overarching issues around societal inclusion, equal opportunities, and life chances for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families were front and center across communities and multi-stakeholder groups, and achieving change remains valued and a high priority.
How to Best Develop and Deliver Generic Long-Term Condition Rehabilitation Programmes in Rural Settings: An Integrative Review
Authors: Wilkinson Amanda , Higgs Chris , Stokes Tim , Dummer Jack , Hale Leigh
Published: June 2022

People living rurally frequently experience health disparities especially if living with a long-term condition (LTC) or multi-morbidity. Self-management support is a key component of LTC management and commonly included in rehabilitation programmes to enhance ability to self-manage health and encourage physical activity. Such programmes are however often condition focussed and despite evidence for their effectiveness, are not always feasible to deliver in rural settings. Generic programmes are arguably more optimal in the rural context and delivery can be face to face or remotely (via telehealth). The aim of this explorative integrative review was to collate and present international evidence for development, delivery, integration, and support of community-based, generic LTC group rehabilitation programmes delivered rurally in person, or remotely using telehealth. Electronic databases were systematically searched using MeSH terms and keywords. For inclusion, articles were screened for relevance to the aim, and practical information pertaining to the aim were extracted, charted, and organized deductively into themes of Development, Delivery, Integration, and Support. Within each theme, data were synthesized inductively into categories (Theory, Context, Interpersonal aspects, and Technology and Programme aspects). Fifty-five studies were included. Five studies contributed information about community based programmes delivered via the internet. Development was the only theme populated by information from all categories. The theme of Support was only populated with information from one category. Our review has drawn together a large body of diverse work. It has focused on finding practical information pertaining to the best ways to develop, deliver, integrate, and support a community-based generic rehabilitation programme for people living with long-term health conditions, delivered rurally and/or potentially via the internet. Practical suggestions were thematically organized into categories of theory, context, interpersonal aspects, and technology and programme aspects. While the findings of this review might appear simple and self-evident, they are perhaps difficult to enact in practice.
The Effects of Resistance Training on Physical Fitness and Neuromotor-Cognitive Functions in Adults With Down Syndrome
Authors: Post Emily M. , Kraemer William J. , Kackley Madison L. , Caldwell Lydia K. , Volek Jeff S. , Sanchez Barbara N. , Focht Brian C. , Newton Robert U. , Häkkinen Keijo , Maresh Carl M.
Published: June 2022

Adults with Down syndrome are an underserved population at high risk for a host of different pathologies from aging and lack of activity.

Purpose

To examine the effects of a 10-week resistance training program on measures of motor behavior, cognitive function, mood, and physical fitness.

Methods

Participants (n = 11) were men and women clinically diagnosed with Down syndrome (age: 25.8 ± 6.4 years; height: 151.5 ± 8.3 cm; weight: 67.5 ± 13.0 kg; IQ: 58.3 ± 19.7 units). After familiarization of testing procedures, subjects performed The Arizona Cognitive Test Battery for Down Syndrome, TGMD-2, lower and upper body strength assessments, and body composition via DXA testing, while parental guardians completed cognitive and mood survey assessments (Cognitive Scale for Down Syndrome, Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function, NiSonger Child Behavior Rating Form, Scales of Independent Behavior-Revised, Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire, Social Communication Questionnaire, and Mood and Feelings Questionnaire) at pre and post 10 weeks of periodized resistance training.

Results

Significant (P ≤ 0.05) improvements in locomotor skills and object control skills were observed post-training. Both locomotor skills (e.g., sprint, gallop, leaping, broad jump) and object control skills (e.g., baseball catch, underhand roll, basketball dribble) were all significantly improved. Facets of cognitive performance significantly improved, specifically executive function and visuospatial working memory capacity, and frontal lobe activity. Mood disturbances significantly decrease. All aspects of physical strength and endurance were improved, i.e., leg press, bench press, sit-ups, push-ups, and chair sit-to-stand post-training. Lean tissue mass was significantly increased post-training.

Conclusion

This study dramatically demonstrates that life enhancements for individuals with Down syndrome are achievable with a properly designed resistance training program.
Lessons Learned and Future Actions: Modifying a Stroke Specific Self-Management Program
Authors: Hreha Kimberly , Sonnenfeld Mandi , Na Annalisa , Kitchens Riqiea , Reistetter Timothy A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Self-management programs have been shown to be effective at providing support to individuals who want to manage chronic health conditions independently. It has been shown that adapting self-management programs for different diagnostic groups, such as stroke, is essential.

Objective

To report modifications made during trial implementation, the barriers identified during the delivery of an evidence based, stroke-specific self-management program and minor data (including strategies made) from a small cohort of stroke survivors with multiple chronic conditions.

Methods

Prospective type III hybrid implementation-effectiveness trial for stroke survivors, with chronic conditions, living in the community, and interested in self-management. Modifications were reported by the following: (1) researcher reflections (2) barriers to implementation and (3) strategies used to address the barrier using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) guidelines from field notes.

Results

Twenty-five individuals consented (42% of eligible sample) at the time of acute stroke and five were interested in continuing at the 3-month call. Multiple barriers to implementation were identified, resulting in modifications. For example, before the group sessions began, the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated changes to the intervention delivery. The protocol was modified to an online mode of delivery. In total, there were seven modifications made.

Conclusions

The CFIR was a facilitative tool to report barriers and strategies and emphasized the importance of comprehensive reporting. The modifications to the study were an essential first step to address the research climate and needs of this stroke cohort. Next steps include continued research with a larger cohort to implement effective strategies and answer the clinical question of effectiveness of the adapted and modified intervention.
A Comparative Review of Trenchless Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) With Spray Applied Pipe Lining (SAPL) Renewal Methods for Pipelines
Authors: Hicks John , Kaushal Vinayak , Jamali Koosha
Published: June 2022

Pipes have been used for thousands of years, the first record of copper piping dates to the Egyptians in 3000 BC. In today's time, pipelines play a dramatic role in our everyday life and is a backbone of our society. Replacing and renewing our vast piping system is extremely important to maintain and grow the infrastructure around us. Trenchless methods (TM) can renew pre-existing piping, replace, and offer installation of new pipe(s). Two very common TMs are cured-in-place piping (CIPP) and spray-applied pipe lining (SAPL). These are great alternatives compared to open cut pipeline installation (OCPI) due to minimizing environmental impact and the total cost associated with renewing or replacing a pipe. Owners and engineers involved in a project which contain pipe renewal and or replacement should consider the time and social cost associated with each method. Cost alone should not be the one and only deciding factor. The objective of this review is to compare and contrast CIPP and SAPL pipeline renewal methods with references found over these renewal methods. This will be demonstrated with the use of a table that will consist of these parameters; environmental, mechanical properties, performance, cost, and methods. The method used for selecting specific articles/papers is intended to locate major factors that play a role in pipeline renewal using publications from the past years. Results show that reviewing, comparing, and understanding current research relating to pipeline renewal will allow for safer applications, increased efficiency, and pipeline longevity.
Shielding Fish to Protect Whales and Fishers Income
Authors: Rabearisoa Njaratiana , Arnau Alice , Bodin Manon , Hanse Constance , Portalez Marin , Bach Pascal
Published: June 2022

Some toothed whale species have gotten used to stealing or damaging fish that have been captured by the fishing equipment of fishers. This stealing is called depredation, and it is a problem for both fishers and toothed whales in all the oceans of the world. Fishers lose their catch and must work harder, and the whales can get injured and forget how to hunt. It is important to develop a solution to prevent toothed whales from stealing fish captured by fishers. Our group of scientists is developing a system that can protect captured fish from being stolen. Basically, our innovation is like Spider-man©throwing a spiderweb over the fish, to hide them from toothed whales! In the near future, we are hopeful that this system will both help the fishers by protecting their catch and help to protect toothed whales.
How Can We Use DNA to “See” Inside Microbes?
Authors: Sosa Gylis Booz , Weller Ashley , Lozano Catalina , Kesler Justin , Mosier Annika C.
Published: June 2022

Have you heard of bacteria and viruses? They are a part of a field of science called microbiology, which is the study of small organisms that cannot be seen with the naked eye. These tiny organisms are often called microbes or microorganisms. The scientists who study them are called microbiologists. Microbes are important to study because there are many living in us and around us. Some microbes can make people sick, but the majority do not harm us, and some can even help us. Some microbes can also help the environment and others can be used to treat and prevent diseases. Since we cannot see these small creatures, there are special tools scientists use to study them. In this article, we will discuss how scientists can study microbial DNA to make advances in medicine and environmental science.
Evolution, Transmission, and Pathogenicity of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus A (H5N8) Clade 2.3.4.4, South Korea, 2014–2016
Authors: Baek Yoon-Gi , Lee Yu-Na , Park Yu-Ri , Chung David H. , Kwon Jung-Hoon , Si Young-Jae , Heo Gyeong-Beom , Lee Youn-Jeong , Lee Dong-Hun , Lee Eun-Kyoung
Published: June 2022

During 2014–2016, clade 2.3.4.4 H5N8 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) caused the largest known avian influenza epidemic in South Korea. Based on data from earlier H5N8 outbreaks, primitive H5N8 virus in South Korea was classified into five subgroups: C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5. The present study investigated the pathogenic and molecular epidemiologic characteristics of H5N8 viruses obtained from 388 cases of poultry farms and 85 cases of wild bird infections in South Korea during 2014–2016. Representative viruses of subgroups C1, C2, and C4 showed significant pathobiological differences in specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens, with the H1731 (C1) virus showing substantially lower infectivity, transmissibility, and pathogenicity than the H2102 (C2) and H1924 (C4) viruses. Full genome sequence analysis showed the number of mutations that significantly increased in domestic duck-origin H5N8 HPAIVs compared to the viruses from gallinaceous poultry. These differences may have been due to the long-term circulation of viruses in domestic duck farms. The same mutations, at positions 219 and 757 of PB1, independently evolving in the C0, C1, and C2 subgroups may have been positively selected, resulting in convergent evolution at the amino acid level. Bayesian discrete trait phylodynamic analysis (DTA) indicated multiple introductions of H5N8 HPAIV from wild birds into domestic poultry in various regions in South Korea. Following initial viral introduction into domestic duck farms in the western part of Korea, domestic ducks played a major role in viral transmission and maintenance. These findings highlight the need for continued genomic surveillance and pathobiological characterization of HPAIV in birds. Enhanced biosecurity in poultry farms should be implemented to prevent the introduction, maintenance, and spread of HPAIV.
Effect of Select Tannin Sources on Pathogen Control and Microbial Nitrogen Metabolism in Composted Poultry Litter Intended for Use as a Ruminant Crude Protein Feedstuff
Authors: Arzola-Alvarez Claudio , Anderson Robin C. , Hume Michael E. , Ledezma Evelyn , Ruiz-Barrera Oscar , Castillo-Castillo Yamicela , Arzola-Rubio Alejandro , Ontiveros-Magadan Marina , Min Byeng Ryel , Wottlin Lauren R. , Copado Ramon , Salinas-Chavira Jamie
Published: June 2022

Poultry litter is a good crude protein supplement for ruminants but must be treated to kill pathogens before feeding. Composting effectively kills pathogens but risks loss of ammonia due to uric acid degradation. The objectives of this study were to test the ability of tannins to reduce pathogens and preserve uric acid during poultry litter composting. In two experiments, poultry litter was mixed with phosphate buffer and distributed to 50-ml tubes (three tubes/treatment per sample day) amended with 1 ml buffer alone or buffer containing pine bark, quebracho, chestnut, or mimosa tannins. Treatments achieved 0.63% (wt/wt) quebracho, chestnut, or mimosa tannins in experiment 1, or 4.5% pine bark or 9% quebracho, chestnut, or mimosa tannins in experiment 2. Tubes were inoculated with a novobiocin- and nalidixic acid-resistant Salmonella typhimurium, closed with caps, and incubated at successive 3-day increments at 22, 37, and 42°C, respectively. In experiment 1, bacterial counts in contents collected on days 0, 6, and 9 revealed a treatment by day effect (p < 0.03), with the Salmonella challenge being 1.3 log10 CFU/g higher in quebracho-treated composts than in untreated controls after 6 days of composting. After 9 days of composting, Salmonella, wildtype Escherichia coli, and total aerobes in untreated and all tannin-treated composts were decreased by about 2.0 log10 CFU/g compared to day 0 numbers (3.06, 3.75, and 7.77 log10 CFU/g, respectively). Urea and ammonia concentrations tended (p < 0.10) to be increased in chestnut-treated composts compared to controls and concentrations of uric acid, urea, and ammonia were higher (p < 0.05) after 9 days of composting than on day 0. Despite higher tannin application in experiment 2, antibacterial effects of treatment or day of composting were not observed (p > 0.05). However, treatment by time of composting interactions was observed (p < 0.05), with quebracho- and chestnut-treated composts accumulating more uric acid after 24 h and 9 days of composting and chestnut-, mimosa- or quebracho-treated composts accumulating less ammonia than untreated composts. Results demonstrate that composting may effectively control pathogens and that tannin treatment can help preserve the crude protein quality of composting poultry litter.
Immune Modulation Ability of Hepcidin from Teleost Fish
Authors: Álvarez Claudio Andrés , Santana Paula A. , Salinas-Parra Nicolás , Beltrán Dina , Guzmán Fanny , Vega Belinda , Acosta Félix , Mercado Luis
Published: June 2022

Antimicrobial peptides (AMP) play an essential role in the innate immune system, modulating the defense response. In a previous study, we demonstrated the antimicrobial activity of synthetic hepcidin (hep20) from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and its protective effect in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) challenged with Vibrio anguillarum. Additionally, we described the uptake and distribution of hep20 in different tissues and leukocyte cells. Interestingly, various AMPs characterized in high vertebrates, called host defense peptides (HDPs), also possess immunomodulation activity. For that reason, the present study explores the immunomodulatory abilities of hep20 through in vitro and in vivo studies. First, a monocyte/macrophage RTS-11 cell line from rainbow trout was used to evaluate hep20 effects on pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in fish leukocyte cells. Next, the European sea bass juveniles were used to determine if hep20 can regulate the expression of cytokines in fish immune tissues. The results show that hep20 was uptake inner to RTS-11 cells and was able to induce the expression of IL-10, IL-1β, and TNFα at transcriptional and protein levels. Then, the European sea bass juveniles were given intraperitoneal injections of the peptide. At 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days post-injection (dpi), IL-10, IL -1β, and TNFα mRNA were quantified in the anterior gut, spleen, and head kidney. The hep20 was able to up-regulate cytokine gene expression in these tissues, mainly in the head kidney. Furthermore, the evaluated cytokines showed a cyclical tendency of higher to lesser expression. Finally, a bioinformatics analysis showed that the structure adopted by hep20 is similar to the γ-core domain described for cysteine-stabilized AMP, defined as immunomodulatory and antimicrobial, which could explain the ability of hep20 to regulate the cytokine expression. This study provides new insights into immunomodulatory function complementary to the previously established antimicrobial activity of hep20, suggesting a role as an HDP in teleost fish. These facts are likely to be associated with molecular functions underpinning the protective effect of fish hepcidin against pathogens.
Two Different Copy Number Variations of the SOX5 and SOX8 Genes in Yak and Their Association with Growth Traits
Authors: Zhang Zhilong , Chu Min , Bao Qi , Bao Pengjia , Guo Xian , Liang Chunnian , Yan Ping
Published: June 2022

Copy number variation (CNV) is a structural variant with significant impact on genetic diversity. CNV has been widely used in breeding for growth traits, meat production or quality, and coat color. SRY-like box genes (SOXs) are a class of transcription factors that play a regulatory role in cell fate specification and differentiation. SOX5 and SOX8 belong to subgroups D and E of the SOXs, respectively. Previous studies have shown that SOX5 and SOX8 are essential in the development of bones. In this study, we explored the association between the growth traits and CNVs of SOX5 and SOX8 in 326 Ashidan yaks and detected mRNA expression levels in different tissues. Our results illustrated that CNVs of SOX5 and SOX8 were significantly associated with withers height at 18 months of age and chest girth at 30 months of age (p < 0.05). The CNV combination of SOX5 and SOX8 was significantly associated with withers height at 18 months of age (p < 0.01). SOX5 expression in the lung was significantly higher than in the heart, spleen, kidney, and muscle (p < 0.05). SOX8 expression in the lung was significantly higher than in the liver and muscle (p < 0.05). Our results provide evidence that the CNVs of SOX5 and SOX8 genes could be used as new markers for the selection of yak growth traits.
Prevalence and Evolution Analysis of Porcine Circovirus 3 in China from 2018 to 2022
Authors: Chen Dengjin , Huang Yi , Guo Yating , Wang Lihong , Zhang Yongning , Zhou Lei , Ge Xinna , Han Jun , Guo Xin , Yang Hanchun
Published: June 2022

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) is an emerging virus, causing substantial economic losses in pig populations, that was first detected in 2016. Furthermore, the virus has already been reported in Europe, the Americas, and Asia, including China, indicating that the virus has spread worldwide. However, the molecular epidemiology of PCV3 still needs further study. To investigate PCV3 epidemiological characteristics in China, 2707 serum samples of pigs were randomly collected from 17 provinces in China between September 2018 and March 2022 and analyzed via PCR assays. The study showed that PCV3 infection was prevalent in the overall population with 31.07% (841/2707) and 100.0% (17/17) at sample and province levels, respectively, though the positivity rate of PCV3 varied from 7.41 to 70.0% in different provinces, suggesting that PCV3 infection has a widespread distribution in China. We selected 22 serum samples from different regions that had high levels of viral DNA for amplification and sequenced their ORF2 (Cap) gene. According to the phylogenetic analysis, all isolates in the current study could be grouped into two separate subclades, with 15 strains belonging to clade 3a and 7 strains belonging to clade 3b, indicating that PCV3a and PCV3b were the predominant subtypes in the regions of China studied. Meanwhile, additional analysis revealed that the capsid gene sequences identified in this study displayed 97.46~99.8% nucleotide (nt) and 97.06~100% amino acid (aa) sequence similarity with other PCV3 available reference strains, respectively. In general, our studies provide important insights for understanding the prevalence and evolution of PCV3 in China and will guide future efforts to develop measures for preventing and controlling the disease.
Before Azaria: A Historical Perspective on Dingo Attacks
Authors: Brumm Adam
Published: June 2022

This paper investigates the origin of the once popular belief in Australian society that wild dingoes do not attack humans. To address this problem, a digital repository of archived newspaper articles and other published texts written between 1788 and 1979 were searched for references to dingoes attacking non-Indigenous people. A total of 52 accounts spanning the period between 1804 and 1928 was identified. A comparison of these historical accounts with the details of modern dingo attacks suggests that at least some of the former are credible. The paper also examined commonly held attitudes towards dingoes in past Australian society based on historical print media articles and other records. Early chroniclers of Australian rural life and culture maintained that dingoes occasionally killed and ate humans out of a predatory motivation. By the early decades of the 20th century, however, an opposing view of this species had emerged: namely, that dingoes were timid animals that continued to pose a danger to livestock, but never to people. This change in the cultural image of dingoes can possibly be linked to more than a century of lethal dingo control efforts greatly reducing the frequency of human–dingo interactions in the most populous parts of the country. This intensive culling may also have expunged the wild genetic pool of dingoes that exhibited bold behaviour around people and/or created a dingo population that was largely wary of humans.
Differential Induction of Reactive Oxygen Species and Expression of Antioxidant Enzymes in Human Melanocytes Correlate with Melanin Content: Implications on the Response to Solar UV and Melanoma Susceptibility
Authors: Upadhyay Parth R. , Starner Renny J. , Swope Viki B. , Wakamatsu Kazumasa , Ito Shosuke , Abdel-Malek Zalfa A.
Published: June 2022

Constitutive pigmentation determines the response to sun exposure and the risk for melanoma, an oxidative stress–driven tumor. Using primary cultures of human melanocytes, we compared the effects of constitutive pigmentation on their antioxidant response to solar UV. The quantitation of eumelanin and pheomelanin showed that the eumelanin content and eumelanin to pheomelanin ratio correlated inversely with the basal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Irradiation with 7 J/cm2 solar UV increased ROS generation without compromising melanocyte viability. Among the antioxidant enzymes tested, the basal levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and the glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit and modifier subunit (GCLC and GCLM) correlated directly with the eumelanin and total melanin contents. The levels of HO-1 and GCLM decreased at 6 h but increased at 24 h post–solar UV. Consistent with the GCLC and GCLM levels, the basal glutathione (GSH) content was significantly lower in light than in dark melanocytes. The expression of HMOX1, GCLC, GCLM, and CAT did not correlate with the melanin content and was reduced 3 h after solar UV irradiation, particularly in lightly pigmented melanocytes. Solar UV increased p53 and lipid peroxidation, which correlated inversely with the eumelanin and total melanin contents. These intrinsic differences between light and dark melanocytes should determine their antioxidant response and melanoma risk.
Electrochemical Methodologies for Investigating the Antioxidant Potential of Plant and Fruit Extracts: A Review
Authors: Alam Mir Waqas , Najeeb Jawayria , Naeem Sumaira , Usman Sheikh Muhammad , Nahvi Insha , Alismail Fai , Abuzir Alaaedeen , Farhan Mohd , Nawaz Allah
Published: June 2022

In recent years, the growing research interests in the applications of plant and fruit extracts (synthetic/stabilization materials for the nanomaterials, medicinal applications, functional foods, and nutraceuticals) have led to the development of new analytical techniques to be utilized for identifying numerous properties of these extracts. One of the main properties essential for the applicability of these plant extracts is the antioxidant capacity (AOC) that is conventionally determined by spectrophotometric techniques. Nowadays, electrochemical methodologies are emerging as alternative tools for quantifying this particular property of the extract. These methodologies address numerous drawbacks of the conventional spectroscopic approach, such as the utilization of expensive and hazardous solvents, extensive sample pre-treatment requirements, long reaction times, low sensitivity, etc. The electrochemical methodologies discussed in this review include cyclic voltammetry (CV), square wave voltammetry (SWV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and chronoamperometry (CAP). This review presents a critical comparison between both the conventional and electrochemical approaches for the quantification of the parameter of AOC and discusses the numerous applications of the obtained bioextracts based on the AOC parameter.
The Beneficial Effects of Natural Extracts and Bioactive Compounds on the Gut-Liver Axis: A Promising Intervention for Alcoholic Liver Disease
Authors: Zhao Liang , Wang Shaoxuan , Zhang Nanhai , Zhou Jingxuan , Mehmood Arshad , Raka Rifat Nowshin , Zhou Feng , Zhao Lei
Published: June 2022

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It can cause fatty liver (steatosis), steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Alcohol consumption can also disturb the composition of gut microbiota, increasing the composition of harmful microbes and decreasing beneficial ones. Restoring eubiosis or preventing dysbiosis after alcohol consumption is an important strategy in treating ALD. Plant natural products and polyphenolic compounds exert beneficial effects on several metabolic disorders associated with ALD. Natural products and related phytochemicals act through multiple pathways, such as modulating gut microbiota, improving redox stress, and anti-inflammation. In the present review article, we gather information on natural extract and bioactive compounds on the gut-liver axis for the possible treatment of ALD. Supplementation with natural extracts and bioactive compounds promoted the intestinal tight junction, protected against the alcohol-induced gut leakiness and inflammation, and reduced endotoxemia in alcohol-exposed animals. Taken together, natural extracts and bioactive compounds have strong potential against ALD; however, further clinical studies are still needed.
Dietary Polyphenol, Gut Microbiota, and Health Benefits
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Qi Yue , Zheng Hao
Published: June 2022

Polyphenols, which are probably the most important secondary metabolites produced by plants, have attracted tremendous attention due to their health-promoting effects, including their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-adipogenic, and neuro-protective activities, as well as health properties. However, due to their complicated structures and high molecular weights, a large proportion of dietary polyphenols remain unabsorbed along the gastrointestinal tract, while in the large intestine they are biotransformed into bioactive, low-molecular-weight phenolic metabolites through the residing gut microbiota. Dietary polyphenols can modulate the composition of intestinal microbes, and in turn, gut microbes catabolize polyphenols to release bioactive metabolites. To better investigate the health benefits of dietary polyphenols, this review provides a summary of their modulation through in vitro and in vivo evidence (animal models and humans), as well as their possible actions through intestinal barrier function and gut microbes. This review aims to provide a basis for better understanding the relationship between dietary polyphenols, gut microbiota, and host health.
Phenotypes of Motor Deficit and Pain after Experimental Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Krotov Volodymyr , Medvediev Volodymyr , Abdallah Ibrahim , Bozhenko Arseniy , Tatarchuk Mykhailo , Ishchenko Yevheniia , Pichkur Leonid , Savosko Serhii , Tsymbaliuk Vitaliy , Kopach Olga , Voitenko Nana
Published: June 2022

Motor disability is a common outcome of spinal cord injury (SCI). The recovery of motor function after injury depends on the severity of neurotrauma; motor deficit can be reversible, at least partially, due to the innate tissue capability to recover, which, however, deteriorates with age. Pain is often a comorbidity of injury, although its prediction remains poor. It is largely unknown whether pain can attend motor dysfunction. Here, we implemented SCI for modelling severe and moderate neurotrauma and monitored SCI rats for up to 5 months post-injury to determine the profiles of both motor deficit and nociceptive sensitivity. Our data showed that motor dysfunction remained persistent after a moderate SCI in older animals (5-month-old); however, there were two populations among young SCI rats (1 month-old) whose motor deficit either declined or exacerbated even more over 4–5 weeks after identical injury. All young SCI rats displayed changed nociceptive sensitivity in thermal and mechanical modalities. The regression analysis of the changes revealed a population trend with respect to hyper- or hyposensitivity/motor deficit. Together, our data describe the phenotypes of motor deficit and pain, the two severe complications of neurotrauma. Our findings also suggest the predictability of motor dysfunction and pain syndromes following SCI that can be a hallmark for long-term rehabilitation and recovery after injury.
Effects of Long-Term Exposure to High Altitude Hypoxia on Cognitive Function and Its Mechanism: A Narrative Review
Authors: Li Yuan , Wang Yan
Published: June 2022

Cognitive function is affected by low pressure and hypoxia in high-altitude environments, and is regulated by altitude and exposure time. With the economic development in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the increase in work and study activities, as well as the development of plateau tourism, mountaineering, and other activities, the number of plateau immigrants is increasing daily. Long-term hypoxia challenges human physical and mental health, restricts work efficiency, and thus affects plateau economic development and human wellbeing. Therefore, it is of scientific and social significance to study how long-term exposure to the hypoxic plateau environment affects the physical and mental health of lowlanders as part of the ongoing development of the current plateau region. In this paper, we reviewed the research progress and mechanism of the effects of long-term (≥1 year) high-altitude (>2500 m) hypoxia exposure on the cognitive function of lowlanders, and suggested that the scope and sample size of the research should be expanded in the future, and that follow-up studies should be carried out to explore the time threshold of cognitive impairment and its compensatory or repair mechanism.
Influences of Gastrointestinal Microbiota Dysbiosis on Serum Proinflammatory Markers in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Development and Progression
Authors: Mahoney Diane E. , Chalise Prabhakar , Rahman Faith , Pierce Janet D.
Published: June 2022

GI microbiota has been implicated in producing the inflammatory tumor microenvironment of several cancers. Women with ovarian cancer often report GI-related symptoms at diagnosis although minimal is known about the possible GI bacteria that may trigger pro-tumorigenic immune responses in early EOC. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influences of GI microbiota dysbiosis on serum inflammatory markers during EOC utilizing a rodent model. This experimental design consisted of C57BL/6 mice randomly assigned to either the microbiota dysbiosis group (n = 6) or control group (n = 5). The CD7BL/6 mice assigned to the microbiota dysbiosis group were administered a mixture of broad-spectrum antibiotics (bacitracin and neomycin) for 2 weeks. Both groups were injected intraperitoneally with mouse ovarian epithelial cells that induce ovarian tumorigenesis. Levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were assessed in the serum, and the composition of the GI microbiota in fecal samples was measured using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Overall CRP serum levels were significantly lower and TNFα levels were significantly higher in the microbiota dysbiosis group compared to the control group. The abundances of microbiota that correlated with CRP serum levels in the combined groups were genus Parabacteroides, Roseburia, and Emergencia and species Ruminococcus faecis, Parabacteroides distasonis, Roseburia Faecis, and Emergencia timonensis. This study provides evidence to support for further investigation of the GI microbial profiles in patients at risk of EOC.
Clinical Outcome of Patients with Pelvic and Retroperitoneal Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Retrospective Multicenter Study in Japan
Authors: Takemori Toshiyuki , Kawamoto Teruya , Hara Hitomi , Fukase Naomasa , Fujiwara Shuichi , Fujita Ikuo , Fujimoto Takuya , Morishita Masayuki , Kitayama Kazumichi , Yahiro Shunsuke , Miyamoto Tomohiro , Saito Masanori , Sugaya Jun , Hayashi Katsuhiro , Kawashima Hiroyuki , Torigoe Tomoaki , Nakamura Tomoki , Kondo Hiroya , Wakamatsu Toru , Watanuki Munenori , Kito Munehisa , Tsukushi Satoshi , Nagano Akihito , Outani Hidetatsu , Toki Shunichi , Nishimura Shunji , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Watanabe Itsuo , Demizu Yusuke , Sasaki Ryohei , Fukumoto Takumi , Niikura Takahiro , Kuroda Ryosuke , Akisue Toshihiro
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to retrospectively analyze the clinical outcomes of patients with pelvic and retroperitoneal bone and soft tissue sarcoma (BSTS). Overall, 187 patients with BSTS in the pelvis and retroperitoneal region treated at 19 specialized sarcoma centers in Japan were included. The prognostic factors related to overall survival (OS), local control (LC), and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated. The 3-year OS and LC rates in the 187 patients were 71.7% and 79.1%, respectively. The 3-year PFS in 166 patients without any distant metastases at the time of primary tumor diagnosis was 48.6%. Osteosarcoma showed significantly worse OS and PFS than other sarcomas of the pelvis and retroperitoneum. In the univariate analyses, larger primary tumor size, soft tissue tumor, distant metastasis at the time of primary tumor diagnosis, P2 location, chemotherapy, and osteosarcoma were poor prognostic factors correlated with OS. Larger primary tumor size, higher age, soft tissue tumor, chemotherapy, and osteosarcoma were poor prognostic factors correlated with PFS in patients without any metastasis at the initial presentation. Larger primary tumor size was the only poor prognostic factor correlation with LC. This study has clarified the epidemiology and prognosis of patients with pelvic and retroperitoneal BSTS in Japan.
Severe Radiation-Induced Lymphopenia Affects the Outcomes of Esophageal Cancer: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dai Dongjun , Tian Qiaoying , Yu Genhua , Shui Yongjie , Jiang Hao , Wei Qichun
Published: June 2022

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the influence of severe radiation-induced lymphopenia (RIL) on the outcomes of esophageal cancer (EC). A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed through the PRISMA guideline. Seventeen studies were included in the current systematic review, with eight included in the meta-analyses. Meta-analyses found that severe RIL was associated with lower pathologic complete response (pCR) rate (odds ratio (OR) = 0.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.30–0.66, I2 = 0%), inferior overall survival (OS) (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.29–1.75, I2 = 6%), and worse progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.39–2.07, I2 = 0%) of EC patients. The lymphocyte nadir was found during 4–6 weeks after the start of radiotherapy. The leading dosimetric factors associated with severe RIL included larger PTV, higher dose to heart and body, and higher effective dose to the immune cells (EDIC). Clinical risk factors for RIL mainly comprised lower baseline ALC, higher tumor length and clinical stage, and distal EC. In conclusion, severe RIL might be associated with a lower pCR rate and worse OS and PFS of EC patients. Minimizing the dosimetric risk factors, especially in patients with clinical risk factors, might benefit their outcomes.
Sexual Dysfunction of Patients with Diffuse Low-Grade Glioma: A Qualitative Review of a Neglected Concern
Authors: Lombard Arnaud , Duffau Hugues
Published: June 2022

Diffuse low-grade gliomas (LGG) commonly affect young adults and display a slow evolution, with a life expectancy that can surpass 15 years, thanks to multimodal therapeutic management. Therefore, preservation of quality of life (QoL), including sexual health, is mandatory. We systematically searched available medical databases of Pubmed, Cochrane, and Scopus for studies that reported data on sexual activity or dysfunction (SD) in LGG patients. We analyzed results to determine incidence of SD and its association with QoL in this population. Three studies focused on SD incidence in patients presenting specifically LGG, or brain tumors including LGG. They comprised 124 brain tumor patients, including 62 LGG, with SD incidence ranging from 44 to 63%. SD was reported by more than 50% of interrogated women in the three studies. Regarding QoL, two out of the three studies found significant associations between SD and alterations of QoL parameters, particularly in the field of social and functional wellbeing. Finally, we discussed those results regarding methods of evaluation, inherent biases, and therapeutic implications regarding antiseizure medications and also planning of surgery, chemo-, and radiotherapy. Our review showed that SD is highly prevalent but still poorly studied in LGG patients. As those patients are usually young and enjoy an active life, there is a need to assess more systematically the occurrence of SD in clinical routine, in order to adapt cancer treatments accordingly, to manage actively these troubles, and finally to improve patients’ QoL in the long run.
Target Definition in MR-Guided Adaptive Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Ridder Mischa de , Raaijmakers Cornelis P. J. , Pameijer Frank A. , Bree Remco de , Reinders Floris C. J. , Doornaert Patricia A. H. , Terhaard Chris H. J. , Philippens Marielle E. P.
Published: June 2022

In recent years, MRI-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) has taken an increasingly important position in image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers superior soft tissue contrast in anatomical imaging compared to computed tomography (CT), but also provides functional and dynamic information with selected sequences. Due to these benefits, in current clinical practice, MRI is already used for target delineation and response assessment in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Because of the close proximity of target areas and radiosensitive organs at risk (OARs) during HNSCC treatment, MRgRT could provide a more accurate treatment in which OARs receive less radiation dose. With the introduction of several new radiotherapy techniques (i.e., adaptive MRgRT, proton therapy, adaptive cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) RT, (daily) adaptive radiotherapy ensures radiation dose is accurately delivered to the target areas. With the integration of a daily adaptive workflow, interfraction changes have become visible, which allows regular and fast adaptation of target areas. In proton therapy, adaptation is even more important in order to obtain high quality dosimetry, due to its susceptibility for density differences in relation to the range uncertainty of the protons. The question is which adaptations during radiotherapy treatment are oncology safe and at the same time provide better sparing of OARs. For an optimal use of all these new tools there is an urgent need for an update of the target definitions in case of adaptive treatment for HNSCC. This review will provide current state of evidence regarding adaptive target definition using MR during radiotherapy for HNSCC. Additionally, future perspectives for adaptive MR-guided radiotherapy will be discussed.