bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Adaptation of Siberian Larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.) to High Altitudes
Authors: Novikova Serafima V. , Sharov Vadim V. , Oreshkova Natalia V. , Simonov Evgeniy P. , Krutovsky Konstantin V.
Published: February 2023

Forest trees growing in high altitude conditions offer a convenient model for studying adaptation processes. They are subject to a whole range of adverse factors that are likely to cause local adaptation and related genetic changes. Siberian larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.), whose distribution covers different altitudes, makes it possible to directly compare lowland with highland populations. This paper presents for the first time the results of studying the genetic differentiation of Siberian larch populations, presumably associated with adaptation to the altitudinal gradient of climatic conditions, based on a joint analysis of altitude and six other bioclimatic variables, together with a large number of genetic markers, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), obtained from double digest restriction-site-associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq). In total, 25,143 SNPs were genotyped in 231 trees. In addition, a dataset of 761 supposedly selectively neutral SNPs was assembled by selecting SNPs located outside coding regions in the Siberian larch genome and mapped to different contigs. The analysis using four different methods (PCAdapt, LFMM, BayeScEnv and RDA) revealed 550 outlier SNPs, including 207 SNPs whose variation was significantly correlated with the variation of some of environmental factors and presumably associated with local adaptation, including 67 SNPs that correlated with altitude based on either LFMM or BayeScEnv and 23 SNPs based on both of them. Twenty SNPs were found in the coding regions of genes, and 16 of them represented non-synonymous nucleotide substitutions. They are located in genes involved in the processes of macromolecular cell metabolism and organic biosynthesis associated with reproduction and development, as well as organismal response to stress. Among these 20 SNPs, nine were possibly associated with altitude, but only one of them was identified as associated with altitude by all four methods used in the study, a nonsynonymous SNP in scaffold_31130 in position 28092, a gene encoding a cell membrane protein with uncertain function. Among the studied populations, at least two main groups (clusters), the Altai populations and all others, were significantly genetically different according to the admixture analysis based on any of the three SNP datasets as follows: 761 supposedly selectively neutral SNPs, all 25,143 SNPs and 550 adaptive SNPs. In general, according to the AMOVA results, genetic differentiation between transects or regions or between population samples was relatively low, although statistically significant, based on 761 neutral SNPs (FST = 0.036) and all 25,143 SNPs (FST = 0.017). Meanwhile, the differentiation based on 550 adaptive SNPs was much higher (FST = 0.218). The data showed a relatively weak but highly significant linear correlation between genetic and geographic distances (r = 0.206, p = 0.001).
Epigenetic Abnormalities in Chondrosarcoma
Authors: Bereza Michał , Dembiński Mateusz , Zając Agnieszka E. , Piątkowski Jakub , Dudzisz-Śledź Monika , Rutkowski Piotr , Czarnecka Anna M.
Published: February 2023

In recent years, our understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms involved in tumor pathology has improved greatly. DNA and histone modifications, such as methylation, demethylation, acetylation, and deacetylation, can lead to the up-regulation of oncogenic genes, as well as the suppression of tumor suppressor genes. Gene expression can also be modified on a post-transcriptional level by microRNAs that contribute to carcinogenesis. The role of these modifications has been already described in many tumors, e.g., colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers. These mechanisms have also begun to be investigated in less common tumors, such as sarcomas. Chondrosarcoma (CS) is a rare type of tumor that belongs to sarcomas and is the second most common malignant bone tumor after osteosarcoma. Due to unknown pathogenesis and resistance to chemo- and radiotherapies of these tumors, there is a need to develop new potential therapies against CS. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the influence of epigenetic alterations in the pathogenesis of CS by discussing potential candidates for future therapies. We also emphasize ongoing clinical trials that use drugs targeting epigenetic modifications in CS treatment.
Sleep Fragmentation Accelerates Carcinogenesis in a Chemical-Induced Colon Cancer Model
Authors: Lee Da-Been , An Seo-Yeon , Pyo Sang-Shin , Kim Jinkwan , Kim Suhng-Wook , Yoon Dae-Wui
Published: February 2023

Aims of this study were to test whether sleep fragmentation (SF) increased carcinogenesis and to investigate the possible mechanisms of carcinogenesis in a chemical-induced colon cancer model. In this study, eight-week-old C57BL/6 mice were divided into Home cage (HC) and SF groups. After the azoxymethane (AOM) injection, the mice in the SF group were subjected to SF for 77 days. SF was accomplished in a sleep fragmentation chamber. In the second protocol, mice were divided into 2% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-treated, HC, and SF groups and were exposed to the HC or SF procedures. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent stainings were conducted to determine the level of 8-OHdG and reactive oxygen species (ROS), respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to assess the relative expression of inflammatory and ROS-generating genes. The number of tumors and average tumor size were significantly higher in the SF group than in the HC group. The intensity (%) of the 8-OHdG stained area was significantly higher in the SF group than in the HC group. The fluorescence intensity of ROS was significantly higher in the SF group than the HC group. SF accelerated cancer development in a murine AOM/DSS-induced model of colon cancer, and the increased carcinogenesis was associated with ROS- and oxidative stress-induced DNA damage.
The Impact of Westernization on the Insulin/IGF-I Signaling Pathway and the Metabolic Syndrome: It Is Time for Change
Authors: Janssen Joseph A. M. J. L.
Published: February 2023

The metabolic syndrome is a cluster of overlapping conditions resulting in an increased incidence of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. In the last few decades, prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in the Western world has reached epidemic proportions and this is likely due to alterations in diet and the environment as well as decreased physical activity. This review discusses how the Western diet and lifestyle (Westernization) has played an important etiological role in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome and its consequences by exerting negative effects on activity of the insulin–insulin-like growth factor-I (insulin–IGF-I) system. It is further proposed that interventions that normalize/reduce activity of the insulin–IGF-I system may play a key role in the prevention and treatment of the metabolic syndrome. For successful prevention, limitation, and treatment of the metabolic syndrome, the focus should be primarily on changing our diets and lifestyle in accordance with our genetic make-up, formed in adaptation to Paleolithic diets and lifestyles during a period of several million years of human evolution. Translating this insight into clinical practice, however, requires not only individual changes in our food and lifestyle, starting in pediatric populations at a very young age, but also requires fundamental changes in our current health systems and food industry. Change is needed: primary prevention of the metabolic syndrome should be made a political priority. New strategies and policies should be developed to stimulate and implement behaviors encouraging the sustainable use of healthy diets and lifestyles to prevent the metabolic syndrome before it develops.
PEGylated Liposomes Loaded with Carbamate Inhibitor ANP0903 Trigger Apoptosis by Enhancing ER Stress in HepG2 Cancer Cells
Authors: Caddeo Carla , Miglionico Rocchina , Rinaldi Roberta , Nigro Ilaria , Lamorte Daniela , Chiummiento Lucia , Lupattelli Paolo , Funicello Maria , D’Orsi Rosarita , Valenti Donatella , Santoro Valentina , Fadda Anna Maria , Bisaccia Faustino , Vassallo Antonio , Armentano Maria Francesca
Published: February 2023

Liver cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer death worldwide. In recent years, substantial progress has been made in the development of systemic therapies, but there is still the need for new drugs and technologies that can increase the survival and quality of life of patients. The present investigation reports the development of a liposomal formulation of a carbamate molecule, reported as ANP0903, previously tested as an inhibitor of HIV-1 protease and now evaluated for its ability to induce cytotoxicity in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. PEGylated liposomes were prepared and characterized. Small, oligolamellar vesicles were produced, as demonstrated by light scattering results and TEM images. The physical stability of the vesicles in biological fluids was demonstrated in vitro, alongside the stability during storage. An enhanced cellular uptake was verified in HepG2 cells treated with liposomal ANP0903, resulting in a greater cytotoxicity. Several biological assays were performed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms explaining the proapoptotic effect of ANP0903. Our results allow us to hypothesize that the cytotoxic action in tumor cells is probably due to the inhibition of the proteasome, resulting in an increase in the amount of ubiquitinated proteins within the cells, which in turn triggers activation of autophagy and apoptosis processes, resulting in cell death. The proposed liposomal formulation represents a promising approach to deliver a novel antitumor agent to cancer cells and enhance its activity.
The Impact of Single-Stranded DNA-Binding Protein SSB and Putative SSB-Interacting Proteins on Genome Integrity in the Thermophilic Crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius
Authors: Suzuki Shoji , Kurosawa Norio
Published: February 2023

The study of DNA repair in hyperthermophiles has the potential to elucidate the mechanisms of genome integrity maintenance systems under extreme conditions. Previous biochemical studies have suggested that the single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB) from the hyperthermophilic crenarchaeon Sulfolobus is involved in the maintenance of genome integrity, namely, in mutation avoidance, homologous recombination (HR), and the repair of helix-distorting DNA lesions. However, no genetic study has been reported that elucidates whether SSB actually maintains genome integrity in Sulfolobus in vivo. Here, we characterized mutant phenotypes of the ssb-deleted strain Δssb in the thermophilic crenarchaeon S. acidocaldarius. Notably, an increase (29-fold) in mutation rate and a defect in HR frequency was observed in Δssb, indicating that SSB was involved in mutation avoidance and HR in vivo. We characterized the sensitivities of Δssb, in parallel with putative SSB-interacting protein-encoding gene-deleted strains, to DNA-damaging agents. The results showed that not only Δssb but also Δalhr1 and ΔSaci_0790 were markedly sensitive to a wide variety of helix-distorting DNA-damaging agents, indicating that SSB, a novel helicase SacaLhr1, and a hypothetical protein Saci_0790, were involved in the repair of helix-distorting DNA lesions. This study expands our knowledge of the impact of SSB on genome integrity and identifies novel and key proteins for genome integrity in hyperthermophilic archaea in vivo.
Focus on the Use of Resveratrol in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Zucchi Alessandro , Claps Francesco , Pastore Antonio Luigi , Perotti Alessandro , Biagini Andrea , Sallicandro Luana , Gentile Rosaria , Caglioti Concetta , Palazzetti Federico , Fioretti Bernard
Published: February 2023

Bladder cancer is the most common tumor of the urinary system, with a high incidence in the male population. Surgery and intravesical instillations can eradicate it, although recurrences are very common, with possible progression. For this reason, adjuvant therapy should be considered in all patients. Resveratrol displays a biphasic dose response both in vitro and in vivo (intravesical application) with an antiproliferative effect at high concentrations and antiangiogenic action in vivo (intraperitoneal application) at a low concentration, suggesting a potential role for it in clinical management as an adjuvant to conventional therapy. In this review, we examine the standard therapeutical approach to bladder cancer and the preclinical studies that have investigated resveratrol in xenotransplantation models of bladder cancer. Molecular signals are also discussed, with a particular focus on the STAT3 pathway and angiogenic growth factor modulation.
R-Propranolol Has Broad-Spectrum Anti-Coronavirus Activity and Suppresses Factors Involved in Pathogenic Angiogenesis
Authors: Thaler Melissa , Salgado-Benvindo Clarisse , Leijs Anouk , Tas Ali , Ninaber Dennis K. , Arbiser Jack L. , Snijder Eric J. , van Hemert Martijn J.
Published: February 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic highlighted the need for broad-spectrum antivirals to increase our preparedness. Patients often require treatment by the time that blocking virus replication is less effective. Therefore, therapy should not only aim to inhibit the virus, but also to suppress pathogenic host responses, e.g., leading to microvascular changes and pulmonary damage. Clinical studies have previously linked SARS-CoV-2 infection to pathogenic intussusceptive angiogenesis in the lungs, involving the upregulation of angiogenic factors such as ANGPTL4. The β-blocker propranolol is used to suppress aberrant ANGPTL4 expression in the treatment of hemangiomas. Therefore, we investigated the effect of propranolol on SARS-CoV-2 infection and the expression of ANGPTL4. SARS-CoV-2 upregulated ANGPTL4 in endothelial and other cells, which could be suppressed with R-propranolol. The compound also inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2 in Vero-E6 cells and reduced the viral load by up to ~2 logs in various cell lines and primary human airway epithelial cultures. R-propranolol was as effective as S-propranolol but lacks the latter’s undesired β-blocker activity. R-propranolol also inhibited SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. It inhibited a post-entry step of the replication cycle, likely via host factors. The broad-spectrum antiviral effect and suppression of factors involved in pathogenic angiogenesis make R-propranolol an interesting molecule to further explore for the treatment of coronavirus infections.
Genomic Analysis of Corynebacterium diphtheriae Strains Isolated in the Years 2007–2022 with a Report on the Identification of the First Non-Toxigenic tox Gene-Bearing Strain in Poland
Authors: Wołkowicz Tomasz , Zacharczuk Katarzyna , Zasada Aleksandra Anna
Published: February 2023

Infections caused by non-toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae have been reported every year in Poland since 2004, with the ST8 biovar gravis strains being most commonly isolated. This study analyzed thirty strains isolated between 2017 and 2022 and six previously isolated strains. All the strains were characterized using classic methods in terms of species, biovar level, and diphtheria toxin production, as well as by means of whole genome sequencing. The phylogenetic relationship based on SNP analysis was determined. The number of C. diphtheriae infections has been rising in Poland every year with a maximum of 22 cases in the year 2019. Since 2022, only the non-toxigenic gravis ST8 (most common) and mitis ST439 (less common) strains have been isolated. An analysis of the genomes of the ST8 strains showed that they had many potential virulence factors, such as adhesins and iron-uptake systems. The situation rapidly changed in 2022 and strains from different STs were isolated (ST32, 40, and 819). The ST40 biovar mitis strain was found to be non-toxigenic tox gene-bearing (NTTB), with the tox gene inactivated due to a single nucleotide deletion. Such strains were previously isolated in Belarus. The sudden appearance of new C. diphtheriae strains with different STs and the isolation of the first NTTB strain in Poland indicate that C. diphtheriae should be classified as a pathogen of special public health concern.
Synaptic Dysfunction and Plasticity in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Gulino Rosario
Published: February 2023

Recent evidence has supported the hypothesis that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multi-step disease, as the onset of symptoms occurs after sequential exposure to a defined number of risk factors. Despite the lack of precise identification of these disease determinants, it is known that genetic mutations may contribute to one or more of the steps leading to ALS onset, the remaining being linked to environmental factors and lifestyle. It also appears evident that compensatory plastic changes taking place at all levels of the nervous system during ALS etiopathogenesis may likely counteract the functional effects of neurodegeneration and affect the timing of disease onset and progression. Functional and structural events of synaptic plasticity probably represent the main mechanisms underlying this adaptive capability, causing a significant, although partial and transient, resiliency of the nervous system affected by a neurodegenerative disease. On the other hand, the failure of synaptic functions and plasticity may be part of the pathological process. The aim of this review was to summarize what it is known today about the controversial involvement of synapses in ALS etiopathogenesis, and an analysis of the literature, although not exhaustive, confirmed that synaptic dysfunction is an early pathogenetic process in ALS. Moreover, it appears that adequate modulation of structural and functional synaptic plasticity may likely support function sparing and delay disease progression.
Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization and Experimental Expression Analysis of CNGC Gene Family in Gossypium
Authors: Chen Lei , Wang Wenwen , He Hailun , Yang Peng , Sun Xiaoting , Zhang Zhengsheng
Published: February 2023

Cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels (CNGCs) are channel proteins for calcium ions, and have been reported to play important roles in regulating survival and environmental response of various plants. However, little is known about how the CNGC family works in Gossypium. In this study, 173 CNGC genes, which were identified from two diploid and five tetraploid Gossypium species, were classified into four groups by phylogenetic analysis. The collinearity results demonstrated that CNGC genes are integrally conservative among Gossypium species, but four gene losses and three simple translocations were detected, which is beneficial to analyzing the evolution of CNGCs in Gossypium. The various cis-acting regulatory elements in the CNGCs’ upstream sequences revealed their possible functions in responding to multiple stimuli such as hormonal changes and abiotic stresses. In addition, expression levels of 14 CNGC genes changed significantly after being treated with various hormones. The findings in this study will contribute to understanding the function of the CNGC family in cotton, and lay a foundation for unraveling the molecular mechanism of cotton plants’ response to hormonal changes.
Prevention of Pregnancy Loss: Combining Progestogen Treatment and Psychological Support
Authors: Tetruashvili Nana , Domar Alice , Bashiri Asher
Published: February 2023

Pregnancy loss can be defined as a loss before either 20 or 24 weeks of gestation (based on the first day of the last menstrual period) or the loss of an embryo or fetus less than 400 g in weight if the gestation age is unknown. Approximately 23 million pregnancy losses occur worldwide every year, equating to 15–20% of all clinically recognized pregnancies. A pregnancy loss is usually associated with physical consequences, such as early pregnancy bleeding ranging in severity from spotting to hemorrhage. However, it can also be associated with profound psychological distress, which can be felt by both partners and may include feelings of denial, shock, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicide. Progesterone plays a key part in the maintenance of a pregnancy, and progesterone supplementation has been assessed as a preventative measure in patients at increased risk of experiencing a pregnancy loss. The primary objective of this piece is to assess the evidence for various progestogen formulations in the treatment of threatened and recurrent pregnancy loss, postulating that an optimal treatment plan would preferably include a validated psychological support tool as an adjunct to appropriate pharmacological treatment.
Recovery of Corneal Innervation after Treatment in Dry Eye Disease: A Confocal Microscopy Study
Authors: Barros Alberto , Lozano-Sanroma Javier , Queiruga-Piñeiro Juan , Fernández-Vega Cueto Luis , Anitua Eduardo , Alcalde Ignacio , Merayo-Lloves Jesús
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To analyze the changes in corneal innervation by means of in vivo corneal confocal microscopy (IVCM) in patients diagnosed with Evaporative (EDE) and Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye (ADDE) and treated with a standard treatment for Dry Eye Disease (DED) in combination with Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF). Methods: Eighty-three patients diagnosed with DED were enrolled in this study and included in the EDE or ADDE subtype. The primary variables analyzed were the length, density and number of nerve branches, and the secondary variables were those related to the quantity and stability of the tear film and the subjective response of the patients measured with psychometric questionnaires. Results: The combined treatment therapy with PRGF outperforms the standard treatment therapy in terms of subbasal nerve plexus regeneration, significantly increasing length, number of branches and nerve density, as well as significantly improving the stability of the tear film (p < 0.05 for all of them), and the most significant changes were located in the ADDE subtype. Conclusions: the corneal reinnervation process responds in a different way depending on the treatment prescribed and the subtype of dry eye disease. In vivo confocal microscopy is presented as a powerful technique in the diagnosis and management of neurosensory abnormalities in DED.
Dose Reduction Strategies for Pregnant Women in Emergency Settings
Authors: Picone Carmine , Fusco Roberta , Tonerini Michele , Fanni Salvatore Claudio , Neri Emanuele , Brunese Maria Chiara , Grassi Roberta , Danti Ginevra , Petrillo Antonella , Scaglione Mariano , Gandolfo Nicoletta , Giovagnoni Andrea , Barile Antonio , Miele Vittorio , Granata Claudio , Granata Vincenza
Published: February 2023

In modern clinical practice, there is an increasing dependence on imaging techniques in several settings, and especially during emergencies. Consequently, there has been an increase in the frequency of imaging examinations and thus also an increased risk of radiation exposure. In this context, a critical phase is a woman’s pregnancy management that requires a proper diagnostic assessment to reduce radiation risk to the fetus and mother. The risk is greatest during the first phases of pregnancy at the time of organogenesis. Therefore, the principles of radiation protection should guide the multidisciplinary team. Although diagnostic tools that do not employ ionizing radiation, such as ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be preferred, in several settings as polytrauma, computed tomography (CT) nonetheless remains the examination to perform, beyond the fetus risk. In addition, protocol optimization, using dose-limiting protocols and avoiding multiple acquisitions, is a critical point that makes it possible to reduce risks. The purpose of this review is to provide a critical evaluation of emergency conditions, e.g., abdominal pain and trauma, considering the different diagnostic tools that should be used as study protocols in order to control the dose to the pregnant woman and fetus.
No Long-Term Mucosal Lesions in the Esophagus but More Gastric Mucosal Lesions after Sleeve Gastrectomy in Obese Rats
Authors: Coupaye Muriel , Ribeiro-Parenti Lara , Baratte Clément , Hourseau Muriel , Willemetz Alexandra , Duboc Henri , Ledoux Séverine , Bado André , Couvelard Anne , Le Gall Maude
Published: February 2023

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) often induces gastroesophageal reflux, with few and discordant long-term data on the risk of Barrett’s esophagus (BE) in operated patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of SG on esogastric mucosa in a rat model at 24 weeks postoperatively, which corresponds to approximately 18 years in humans. After 3 months of a high-fat diet, obese male Wistar rats were subjected to SG (n = 7) or sham surgery (n = 9). Esophageal and gastric bile acid (BA) concentrations were measured at sacrifice, at 24 weeks postoperatively. Esophageal and gastric tissues were analyzed by routine histology. The esophageal mucosa of the SG rats (n = 6) was not significantly different in comparison to that of the sham rats (n = 8), with no esophagitis or BE. However, there was more antral and fundic foveolar hyperplasia in the mucosa of the residual stomach 24 weeks after SG than in the sham group (p < 0.001). Luminal esogastric BA concentrations did not differ between the two groups. In our study, SG induced gastric foveolar hyperplasia but no esophageal lesions at 24 weeks postoperatively in obese rats. Therefore, long-term endoscopic esophageal follow-up that is recommended in humans after SG to detect BE may also be useful for detecting gastric lesions.
Are Patients with Axial Spondyloarthritis Who Were Breastfed Protected against the Development of Severe Disease?
Authors: Alonso Sara , Braña Ignacio , Pardo Estefanía , Burger Stefanie , González del Pozo Pablo , Alperi Mercedes , Queiro Rubén
Published: February 2023

Background and aims: Breastfeeding is recognized as one of the most influential drivers of the gut microbiome. In turn, alterations in the gut microbiome may play a role in the development and severity of spondyloarthritis (SpA). We aimed to analyze different disease outcomes in patients with axial SpA (axSpA) based on the history of breastfeeding. Patients and methods: A random sample was selected from a large database of axSpA patients. Patients were divided based on history of breastfeeding and several disease outcomes were compared. Both groups were also compared based on disease severity. Adjusted linear and logistic regression statistical methods were used. Results: The study included 105 patients (46 women and 59 men), and the median age was 45 years (IQR: 16–72), and the mean age at diagnosis was 34.3 ± 10.9 years. Sixty-one patients (58.1%) were breastfed, with a median duration of 4 (IQR: 1–24) months. After the fully adjusted model, BASDAI [−1.13 (95%CI: −2.04, −0.23), p = 0.015] and ASDAS [−0.38 (95%CI: −0.72, −0.04), p = 0.030] scores were significantly lower in breastfed patients. Forty-two percent had severe disease. In the adjusted logistic model for age, sex, disease duration, family history, HLA-B27, biologic therapy, smoking, and obesity, breastfeeding had a protective effect against the development of severe disease (OR 0.22, 95%CI: 0.08–0.57, p = 0.003). The selected sample size was sufficient to detect this difference with a statistical power of 87% and a confidence level of 95%. Conclusion: Breastfeeding might exert a protective effect against severe disease in patients with axSpA. These data need further confirmation.
Hepatitis B Immunization Status in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease: Experience at a Single Center, Egypt
Authors: Youssef Doaa Mohammed , El-Shal Amal S. , Elbehidy Rabab M. , Fouda Mohamed Adel , Shalaby Sally M. , El Hawy Lamiaa Lotfy , Elsadek Abdelrahman Fathi , Neemat-Allah Mayy Abd Alfattah , Ramadan Seham M. , Gohary Amal , Arab Faika , Alsharkawy Mona , Tolba Sabry Abdel Rahman , Abdelsalam Mohamed Mohamed , Amin Ezzat Kamel , Gehad Mona Hamed
Published: February 2023

Background: Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those who require hemodialysis (HD), are at high risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The HBV vaccine non-/hypo-response rate among HD children remains high, and it is critical to investigate the influencing factors and their linkages. The aim of this study was to identify the pattern of HB vaccination response in HD children and to analyze the interference of various clinical and biomedical factors with the immunological response to HB vaccination. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 74 children on maintenance hemodialysis, aged between 3 and 18 years. These children were subjected to complete clinical examination and laboratory investigations. Results: Out of a total of 74 children with HD, 25 (33.8%) were positive for the HCV antibody. Regarding the immunological response to hepatitis B vaccine, 70% were non-/hypo-responders (≤100 IU/mL) and only 30% mounted a high-level response (more than 100 IU/mL). There was a significant relation between non-/hypo-response and sex, dialysis duration, and HCV infection. Being on dialysis for more than 5 years and being HCV Ab-positive were independent variables for non-/hypo-response to HB vaccine. Conclusions: Children with CKD on regular HD have poor seroconversion rates in response to the HBV vaccine, which were influenced by dialysis duration and HCV infection.
Effects of Dementia on Outcomes after Cervical Spine Injuries in Elderly Patients: Evaluation of 1512 Cases in a Nationwide Multicenter Study in Japan
Authors: Yamada Yohei , Yokogawa Noriaki , Kato Satoshi , Sasagawa Takeshi , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Nakashima Hiroaki , Segi Naoki , Ito Sadayuki , Funayama Toru , Eto Fumihiko , Yamaji Akihiro , Yamane Junichi , Nori Satoshi , Furuya Takeo , Yunde Atsushi , Nakajima Hideaki , Yamada Tomohiro , Hasegawa Tomohiko , Terashima Yoshinori , Hirota Ryosuke , Suzuki Hidenori , Imajo Yasuaki , Ikegami Shota , Uehara Masashi , Tonomura Hitoshi , Sakata Munehiro , Hashimoto Ko , Onoda Yoshito , Kawaguchi Kenichi , Haruta Yohei , Suzuki Nobuyuki , Kato Kenji , Uei Hiroshi , Sawada Hirokatsu , Nakanishi Kazuo , Misaki Kosuke , Terai Hidetomi , Tamai Koji , Kuroda Akiyoshi , Inoue Gen , Kakutani Kenichiro , Kakiuchi Yuji , Kiyasu Katsuhito , Tominaga Hiroyuki , Tokumoto Hiroto , Iizuka Yoichi , Takasawa Eiji , Akeda Koji , Takegami Norihiko , Funao Haruki , Oshima Yasushi , Kaito Takashi , Sakai Daisuke , Yoshii Toshitaka , Ohba Tetsuro , Otsuki Bungo , Seki Shoji , Miyazaki Masashi , Ishihara Masayuki , Okada Seiji , Imagama Shiro , Watanabe Kota
Published: February 2023

We aimed to retrospectively investigate the demographic characteristics and short-term outcomes of traumatic cervical spine injuries in patients with dementia. We enrolled 1512 patients aged ≥ 65 years with traumatic cervical injuries registered in a multicenter study database. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of dementia, and 95 patients (6.3%) had dementia. Univariate analysis revealed that the dementia group comprised patients who were older and predominantly female and had lower body mass index, higher modified 5-item frailty index (mFI-5), lower pre-injury activities of daily living (ADLs), and a larger number of comorbidities than patients without dementia. Furthermore, 61 patient pairs were selected through propensity score matching with adjustments for age, sex, pre-injury ADLs, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale score at the time of injury, and the administration of surgical treatment. In the univariate analysis of the matched groups, patients with dementia had significantly lower ADLs at 6 months and a higher incidence of dysphagia up to 6 months than patients without dementia. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that patients with dementia had a higher mortality than those without dementia until the last follow-up. Dementia was associated with poor ADLs and higher mortality rates after traumatic cervical spine injuries in elderly patients.
Exercise across the Lung Cancer Care Continuum: An Overview of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Edbrooke Lara , Bowman Amy , Granger Catherine L. , Burgess Nicola , Abo Shaza , Connolly Bronwen , Denehy Linda
Published: February 2023

Background: Growing evidence supports exercise for people with lung cancer. This overview aimed to summarise exercise intervention efficacy and safety across the care continuum. Methods: Eight databases (including Cochrane and Medline) were searched (inception—February 2022) for systematic reviews of RCTs/quasi-RCTs. Eligibility: population—adults with lung cancer; intervention: exercise (e.g., aerobic, resistance) +/− non-exercise (e.g., nutrition); comparator: usual care/non-exercise; primary outcomes: exercise capacity, physical function, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and post-operative complications. Duplicate, independent title/abstract and full-text screening, data extraction and quality ratings (AMSTAR-2) were completed. Results: Thirty systematic reviews involving between 157 and 2109 participants (n = 6440 total) were included. Most reviews (n = 28) involved surgical participants. Twenty-five reviews performed meta-analyses. The review quality was commonly rated critically low (n = 22) or low (n = 7). Reviews commonly included combinations of aerobic, resistance and/or respiratory exercise interventions. Pre-operative meta-analyses demonstrated that exercise reduces post-operative complications (n = 4/7) and improves exercise capacity (n = 6/6), whilst HRQoL findings were non-significant (n = 3/3). Post-operative meta-analyses reported significant improvements in exercise capacity (n = 2/3) and muscle strength (n = 1/1) and non-significant HRQoL changes (n = 8/10). Interventions delivered to mixed surgical and non-surgical populations improved exercise capacity (n = 3/4), muscle strength (n = 2/2) and HRQoL (n = 3). Meta-analyses of interventions in non-surgical populations demonstrated inconsistent findings. Adverse event rates were low, however, few reviews reported on safety. Conclusions: A large body of evidence supports lung cancer exercise interventions to reduce complications and improve exercise capacity in pre- and post-operative populations. Additional higher-quality research is needed, particularly in the non-surgical population, including subgroup analyses of exercise type and setting.
Sparsity Regularization-Based Real-Time Target Recognition for Side Scan Sonar with Embedded GPU
Authors: Li Zhuoyi , Chen Deshan , Yip Tsz Leung , Zhang Jinfen
Published: February 2023

Side Scan Sonar (SSS) is widely used to search for seabed objects such as ships and wrecked aircraft due to its high-imaging-resolution and large planar scans. SSS requires an automatic real-time target recognition system to enhance search and rescue efficiency. In this paper, a novel target recognition method for SSS images in varied underwater environment, you look only once (YOLO)-slimming, based on convolutional a neural network (CNN) is proposed. The method introduces efficient feature encoders that strengthen the representation of feature maps. Channel-level sparsity regularization in model training is performed to speed up the inference performance. To overcome the scarcity of SSS images, a sonar image simulation method is proposed based on deep style transfer (ST). The performance on the SSS image dataset shows that it can reduce calculations and improves the inference speed with a mean average precision (mAP) of 95.3 and at least 45 frames per second (FPS) on an embedded Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). This proves its feasibility in practical application and has the potential to formulate an image-based real-time underwater target recognition system.
Local Path Planning with Multiple Constraints for USV Based on Improved Bacterial Foraging Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Long Yang , Liu Song , Qiu Da , Li Changzhen , Guo Xuan , Shi Binghua , AbouOmar Mahmoud S.
Published: February 2023

The quality of unmanned surface vehicle (USV) local path planning directly affects its safety and autonomy performance. The USV local path planning might easily be trapped into local optima. The swarm intelligence optimization algorithm is a novel and effective method to solve the path-planning problem. Aiming to address this problem, a hybrid bacterial foraging optimization algorithm with a simulated annealing mechanism is proposed. The proposed algorithm preserves a three-layer nested structure, and a simulated annealing mechanism is incorporated into the outermost nested dispersal operator. The proposed algorithm can effectively escape the local optima. Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) rules and dynamic obstacles are considered as the constraints for the proposed algorithm to design different obstacle avoidance strategies for USVs. The coastal port is selected as the working environment of the USV in the visual test platform. The experimental results show the USV can successfully avoid the various obstacles in the coastal port, and efficiently plan collision-free paths.
Particle Collision Study Based on a Rotational Boundary Condition
Authors: Li Yi , Zhao Xiangyun , Lin Zhe , Zhang Guang
Published: February 2023

The main engineering machinery for the hydrodynamic lifting of seafloor mineral particles is rotor machinery with rotating impeller motion. It is important to study the rebound mechanism of collisions between particles and rotating walls to improve the accuracy of numerical simulation of rotor machinery. In this study, the law of motion change after collisions between particles and rotating walls is investigated using an experimental research method. The results show that the deflection angle of the particles after collision decreases with increases in the rotational speed of the wall, and the spin angular velocity increases with increases in the rotational speed of the wall. The normal velocity coefficient of restitution under the rotating wall is not affected by the rotational speed of the wall. The tangential coefficient of restitution under rotational boundary condition is smaller than the tangential coefficient of restitution under the stationary wall, and the higher the rotational speed, the closer it is to the coefficient of restitution under the stationary wall. During collision in the experiment, the main mode of contact between the particle and the rotating wall is sliding contact. Sliding friction between the particle and the rotating wall results in energy loss in the tangential velocity of the particle, and also provides energy for deflection of the particle’s trajectory and increased kinetic energy from the spin angular velocity; sliding friction loss is affected by the speed of the wall.
Ship Motions and Wave Loads
Authors: Jiao Jialong , Tezdogan Tahsin
Published: February 2023

Seagoing ships operate in ocean waves for the majority of their service lives [...]
Assembling Quality Genomes of Flax Fungal Pathogens from Oxford Nanopore Technologies Data
Authors: Sigova Elizaveta A. , Pushkova Elena N. , Rozhmina Tatiana A. , Kudryavtseva Ludmila P. , Zhuchenko Alexander A. , Novakovskiy Roman O. , Zhernova Daiana A. , Povkhova Liubov V. , Turba Anastasia A. , Borkhert Elena V. , Melnikova Nataliya V. , Dmitriev Alexey A. , Dvorianinova Ekaterina M.
Published: February 2023

Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is attacked by numerous devastating fungal pathogens, including Colletotrichum lini, Aureobasidium pullulans, and Fusarium verticillioides (Fusarium moniliforme). The effective control of flax diseases follows the paradigm of extensive molecular research on pathogenicity. However, such studies require quality genome sequences of the studied organisms. This article reports on the approaches to assembling a high-quality fungal genome from the Oxford Nanopore Technologies data. We sequenced the genomes of C. lini, A. pullulans, and F. verticillioides (F. moniliforme) and received different volumes of sequencing data: 1.7 Gb, 3.9 Gb, and 11.1 Gb, respectively. To obtain the optimal genome sequences, we studied the effect of input data quality and genome coverage on assembly statistics and tested the performance of different assembling and polishing software. For C. lini, the most contiguous and complete assembly was obtained by the Flye assembler and the Homopolish polisher. The genome coverage had more effect than data quality on assembly statistics, likely due to the relatively low amount of sequencing data obtained for C. lini. The final assembly was 53.4 Mb long and 96.4% complete (according to the glomerellales_odb10 BUSCO dataset), consisted of 42 contigs, and had an N50 of 4.4 Mb. For A. pullulans and F. verticillioides (F. moniliforme), the best assemblies were produced by Canu–Medaka and Canu–Homopolish, respectively. The final assembly of A. pullulans had a length of 29.5 Mb, 99.4% completeness (dothideomycetes_odb10), an N50 of 2.4 Mb and consisted of 32 contigs. F. verticillioides (F. moniliforme) assembly was 44.1 Mb long, 97.8% complete (hypocreales_odb10), consisted of 54 contigs, and had an N50 of 4.4 Mb. The obtained results can serve as a guideline for assembling a de novo genome of a fungus. In addition, our data can be used in genomic studies of fungal pathogens or plant–pathogen interactions and assist in the management of flax diseases.
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery versus Conventional Phacoemulsification Surgery: Clinical Outcomes with EDOF IOLs
Authors: Chang Pingjun , Zhang Fan , Li Hongzhe , Liu Zhuohan , Li Siyan , Qian Shuyi , Zhao Yune
Published: February 2023

In this study, we evaluate and compare the outcomes of conventional phacoemulsification cataract surgery (CPS) and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) with the implantation of an extended depth of field (EDOF) intraocular lens (IOL). A prospective, consecutive cohort study was conducted. Patients were given the option to choose FLACS or CPS and were implanted with an EDOF IOL. Refractive data, visual acuity data, ocular aberration measured with a wavefront aberrometer, and optical quality measured with an optical quality analysis system II were collected at one month postoperatively. A total of 92 eyes of 64 patients were enrolled in this study; 35 eyes of 26 patients were treated with FLACS, whereas 57 eyes of 38 patients were treated with CPS. Uncorrected visual acuity at far, intermediate, and near distance and best-spectacle-corrected visual acuity were not statistically significantly different between the groups (all p > 0.05), nor were the mean cylinder and mean spherical equivalent refraction (both p > 0.05). The FLACS group had a lower ocular trefoil than the CPS group (p = 0.033), and there was no significant difference between the two groups considering other aberration parameters, whether ocular or internal (all p > 0.05). Optical-quality-related parameters showed also no significant difference between the two groups (all p > 0.05). In conclusion, there was no significant difference between FLACS and CPS with implantation of EDOF IOLs in postoperative ocular parameters, refractive outcomes, ocular aberration, optical quality, and aberration parameters, except a lower ocular trefoil in the FLACS group. In terms of these indicators, FLACS does not provide an additional clinical benefit for patients over CPS.
Estimation of the Effectiveness of a Tighter, Reinforced Quarantine for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Outbreak: Analysis of the Third Wave in South Korea
Authors: Park Marn Joon , Choi Ji Ho , Cho Jae Hoon
Published: February 2023

It has been claimed that a tighter, reinforced quarantine strategy was advocated to reduce the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during major outbreaks; however, there have been no prior quantitative studies examining the effectiveness and duration of such a reinforced quarantine. Consequently, the purpose of this research was to determine the impact of a “tighter, reinforced” quarantine during the third COVID-19 breakout wave in South Korea, which occurred between late 2020 and early 2021. The efficacy of the quarantine was determined by comparing the number of newly diagnosed COVID-19 patients between the “prediction model” and “actual observed data.” Two prediction models were developed using the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA; 1, 0, 0) model. The effect of a “tighter, reinforced” quarantine, which would show as an immediate drop in the number of new cases, predicted its efficacy by lowering the number of new cases by 20,400. In addition, the efficacy of the quarantine lasted up to more than three months. The findings of our investigation confirmed the beneficial influence of “tighter, controlled” quarantine laws during a widespread COVID-19 epidemic. During an epidemic, when the population has not yet developed immunity to respiratory viral diseases, our study may be evidence for implementing stricter quarantine restrictions in order to reduce the number of new cases.
Development and Validation of a Prognostic Risk Model Based on Nature Killer Cells for Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zhang Chengxi , Qin Chuanmei , Lin Yi
Published: February 2023

Nature killer (NK) cells are increasingly considered important in tumor microenvironment, but their role in predicting the prognosis of ovarian cancer has not been revealed. This study aimed to develop a prognostic risk model for ovarian cancer based on NK cells. Firstly, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of NK cells were found by single-cell RNA-sequencing dataset analysis. Based on six NK-cell DEGs identified by univariable, Lasso and multivariable Cox regression analyses, a prognostic risk model for serous ovarian cancer was developed in the TCGA cohort. This model was then validated in three external cohorts, and evaluated as an independent prognostic factor by multivariable Cox regression analysis together with clinical characteristics. With the investigation of the underlying mechanism, a relation between a higher risk score of this model and more immune activities in tumor microenvironment was revealed. Furthermore, a detailed inspection of infiltrated immunocytes indicated that not only quantity, but also the functional state of these immunocytes might affect prognostic risk. Additionally, the potential of this model to predict immunotherapeutic response was exhibited by evaluating the functional state of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. To conclude, this study introduced a novel prognostic risk model based on NK-cell DEGs, which might provide assistance for the personalized management of serous ovarian cancer patients.