bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DFT Study on Regulating the Electronic Structure and CO2 Reduction Reaction in BiOBr/Sulphur-Doped G-C3N4 S-Scheme Heterojunctions
Authors: Fei Xingang , Zhang Liuyang , Yu Jiaguo , Zhu Bicheng
Published: June 2021

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction is a promising method to mitigate the greenhouse effect and energy shortage problem. Development of effective photocatalysts is vital in achieving high photocatalytic activity. Herein, the S-scheme heterojunctions composed by BiOBr and g-C3N4 with or without S doping are thoroughly investigated for CO2 reduction by density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Work function and charge density difference demonstrate the existence of a built-in electric field in the system, which contributes to the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. Enhanced strength of a built-in electric field is revealed by analysis of Bader charge and electric field intensity. The results indicate that S doping can tailor the electronic structures and thus improve the photocatalytic activity. According to the change in absorption coefficient, system doping can also endow the heterojunction with increased visible light absorption. The in-depth investigation indicates that the superior CO2 reduction activity is ascribed to low rate-determining energy. And both of the heterojunctions are inclined to generate CH3OH rather than CH4. Furthermore, S doping can further reduce the energy from 1.23 to 0.44 eV, indicating S doping is predicted to be an efficient photocatalyst for reducing CO2 into CH3OH. Therefore, this paper provides a theoretical basis for designing appropriate catalysts through element doping and heterojunction construction.
Altered Posterior Cerebellar Lobule Connectivity With Perigenual Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Women With Primary Dysmenorrhea
Authors: Wu Xiaoyan , Yu Wenjun , Tian Xuwei , Liang Zhiying , Su Yun , Wang Zhihui , Li Xiumei , Yang Li , Shen Jun
Published: June 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the potential connectivity mechanism between the cerebellum and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the cerebellar structure in primary dysmenorrhea (PDM).

Methods: We applied the spatially unbiased infratentorial template (SUIT) of the cerebellum to obtain anatomical details of cerebellar lobules, upon which the functional connectivity (FC) between the cerebellar lobules and ACC subregions was analyzed and the gray matter (GM) volume of cerebellar lobules was measured by using voxel-based morphometry (VBM) in 35 PDM females and 38 age-matched healthy females. The potential relationship between the altered FC or GM volume and clinical information was also evaluated in PDM females.

Results: PDM females showed higher connectivity between the left perigenual ACC (pACC) and lobule vermis_VI, between the left pACC and left lobule IX, and between right pACC and right cerebellar lobule VIIb than did the healthy controls. Compared with healthy controls, no altered GM volume was found in PDM females. No significant correlation was found between altered cerebellum–ACC FC and the clinical variables in the PDM females.

Conclusion: PDM females have abnormal posterior cerebellar connectivity with pACC but no abnormal structural changes. ACC–cerebellar circuit disturbances might be involved in the PDM females.
Spinal Cord Injury Causes Reduction of Galanin and Gastrin Releasing Peptide mRNA Expression in the Spinal Ejaculation Generator of Male Rats
Authors: Wiggins James W. , Sledd Jonathan E. , Coolen Lique M.
Published: June 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) in men is commonly associated with sexual dysfunction, including anejaculation, and chronic mid-thoracic contusion injury in male rats also impairs ejaculatory reflexes. Ejaculation is controlled by a spinal ejaculation generator consisting of a population of lumbar spinothalamic (LSt) neurons that control ejaculation through release of four neuropeptides including galanin and gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) onto lumbar and sacral autonomic and motor nuclei. It was recently demonstrated that spinal contusion injury in male rats caused reduction of GRP-immunoreactivity, but not galanin-immunoreactivity in LSt cells, indicative of reduced GRP peptide levels, but inconclusive results for galanin. The current study further tests the hypothesis that contusion injury causes a disruption of GRP and galanin mRNA in LSt cells. Male rats received mid-thoracic contusion injury and galanin and GRP mRNA were visualized 8 weeks later in the lumbar spinal cord using fluorescent in situ hybridization. Spinal cord injury significantly reduced GRP and galanin mRNA in LSt cells. Galanin expression was higher in LSt cells compared to GRP. However, expression of the two transcripts were positively correlated in LSt cells in both sham and SCI animals, suggesting that expression for the two neuropeptides may be co-regulated. Immunofluorescent visualization of galanin and GRP peptides demonstrated a significant reduction in GRP-immunoreactivity, but not galanin in LSt cells, confirming the previous observations. In conclusion, SCI reduced GRP and galanin expression in LSt cells with an apparent greater impact on GRP peptide levels. GRP and galanin are both essential for triggering ejaculation and thus such reduction may contribute to ejaculatory dysfunction following SCI in rats.
“Fistula Zero” Project After Total Laryngectomy: The Candiolo Cancer Institute Experience
Authors: Crosetti Erika , Arrigoni Giulia , Sprio Andrea Elio , Succo Giovanni
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is a troublesome complication after total laryngectomy. The “Fistula zero” project aims to reduce the number of PCF by following a detailed protocol based on three fundamental key points.

Materials and Methods

The Fistula zero project included 77 patients who underwent total laryngectomy in the period from January 2019 to December 2020. The protocol consisted of three main aspects: the systematic placement of a Har-El salivary bypass tube, the continuous horizontal watertight pharyngeal suture using a barbed suture, onlay insetting of a pedicled flap in pre-treated patients.

Results

One case of PCF (1.3%) and three small blind fistulas (3.9%) were observed in this series. The mean length of hospitalization was 18 days.

Conclusion

Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) prolongs hospitalization and delays adjuvant treatments. Thanks to a strict adherence to the protocol, it was possible to reduce PCF rates, avoiding lengthy hospitalization and additional surgical procedures.
Ivabradine Ameliorates Cardiac Diastolic Dysfunction in Diabetic Mice Independent of Heart Rate Reduction
Authors: Xie Hao , Shen Xing-Yi , Zhao Na , Ye Peng , Ge Zhen , Hu Zuo-Ying
Published: June 2021

Cardiac fibroblast (CF) proliferation and activation play important roles in cardiac fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction (DD), which are involved in fibrosis-associated cardiovascular diseases. A previous study showed that ivabradine, a specific heart rate (HR)-lowering agent, significantly ameliorated DD in diabetic db/db mice by reducing HR. Herein, we attempted to determine whether ivabradine has antifibrotic and cardioprotective effects in diabetic mice by directly suppressing CF proliferation and activation, independent of a reduction in HR. We found that knockdown of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) or p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), or treatment with ivabradine, reduced JNK and p38 MAPK phosphorylation and the protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, collagen I, collagen III, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 2, and α-smooth muscle actin, accompanied with upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase 2 both in high glucose-treated neonatal rat CFs and left ventricular CFs isolated from db/db mice. However, zatebradine (a HR-lowering agent) did not have these effects in vitro or in vivo. In addition, cardiac fibrosis and DD were ameliorated in db/db mice that were intravenously administered lentiviruses carrying short hairpin RNAs targeting JNK and p38 MAPK or administered ivabradine. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the ivabradine-induced amelioration of cardiac fibrosis, and DD in db/db mice may be at least in part attributable to the suppression of CF proliferation and activation, through the inhibition of JNK and p38 MAPK.
The New Concept of Physiological “Riolan’s Arch” and the Reconstruction Mechanism of Pathological Riolan’s Arch After High Ligation of the Inferior Mesenteric Artery by CT Angiography-Based Small Vessel Imaging
Authors: Wang Ying , Shu Weibin , Ouyang Aimie , Wang Lei , Sun Yuping , Liu Guoqin
Published: June 2021

Background

Due to the complexity of anatomical relationship between superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and left colic artery (LCA), there is no unified anatomical concept of “Riolan’s arch.” There is no consensus as to tie off the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) at its origin or just below the origin of the left colic artery during radical surgery of sigmoid colon and rectal cancers. The aim of the study is to investigate the anatomy of shortcut anastomotic branches (adjacent branches) of SMA at splenic flexure and to explore how the shortcut pathway (Riolan’s arch) was formed, as the compensation of anastomotic branches between MCA and LCA under pathological conditions and the reconstruction and the mechanism of pathological Riolan’s arch after high ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery.

Methods

Between January 2018 and May 2020, patients with colorectal cancer who underwent CTA before surgery were enrolled in the study. The anatomy of shortcut anastomotic branch of SMA and LCA was investigated by volume rendering technique (VR) and maximum-intensity projection (MIP). GE’s small vessel extraction technology (selected VR) was used to directly display these shortcut anastomotic branches on a map and to establish their three-dimensional anatomical classification. Then, we used the axonometric drawing to make the model more exact. Next, combining with some cases of pathological Riolan’s arch and basing on hydrodynamic principle, we speculate the mechanism of collateral circulation. Finally, based on the retrospective study of high ligation cases and combined principles of fluid mechanics, we show how these shortcut anastomotic branches evolved into Riolan’s arch.

Results

We report the classification of the ascending branch of LCA (which approaches the splenic flexure) and the left branch of MCA, display these shortcut anastomotic branches on a map, and establish their three-dimensional anatomical classification. We found that Riolan’s arch is a shortcut pathway for the compensation of anastomotic branches, between MCA and LCA under pathological conditions, and that the formation mechanism of shortcut path accords with the principle of hydrodynamics.

Conclusions

Our results show the mechanism of pathological Riolan’s arch formation and provide new anatomic thinking for the battle between high and low ligation of IMA in colorectal cancer surgery.
Gestational Low Protein Diet Modulation on miRNA Transcriptome and Its Target During Fetal and Breastfeeding Nephrogenesis
Authors: de Barros Sene Letícia , Lamana Gabriela Leme , Schwambach Vieira Andre , Scarano Wellerson Rodrigo , Gontijo José Antônio Rocha , Boer Patrícia Aline
Published: June 2021

Background

The kidney ontogenesis is the most structurally affected by gestational protein restriction, reducing 28% of their functional units. The reduced nephron number is predictive of hypertension and cardiovascular dysfunctions that are generally observed in the adult age of most fetal programming models. We demonstrate miRNAs and predict molecular pathway changes associated with reduced reciprocal interaction between metanephros cap (CM) and ureter bud (UB) and a 28% decreased nephron stem cells in the 17 gestational days (17GD) low protein (LP) intake male fetal kidney. Here, we evaluated the same miRNAs and predicted targets in the kidneys of 21GD and at 7 days of life (7DL) LP offspring to elucidate the molecular modulations during nephrogenesis.

Methods

Pregnant Wistar rats were allocated into two groups: NP (regular protein diet- 17%) or LP (diet-6%). miRNA transcriptome sequencing (miRNA-Seq) was performed on the MiSeq platform from 21GD and 7DL male offspring kidneys using previously described methods. Among the top 10 dysfunctional regulated miRNAs, we validated 7 related to proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis processes and investigated predicted target genes and proteins by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results

In 21GD, LP fetuses were identified alongside 21 differently expressed miRNAs, of which 12 were upregulated and 9 downregulated compared to age-matched NP offspring. In 7-DL LP offspring, the differentially expressed miRNAs were counted to be 74, of which 46 were upregulated and 28 downregulated. The curve from 17-GD to 7-DL shows that mTOR was fundamental in reducing the number of nephrons in fetal kidneys where the mothers were subjected to a protein restriction. IGF1 and TGFβ curves also seemed to present the same mTOR pattern and were modulated by miRNAs 181a-5p, 181a-3p, and 199a-5p. The miRNA 181c-3p modulated SIX2 and Notch1 reduction in 7-DL but not in terms of the enhanced expression of both in the 21-GD, suggesting the participation of an additional regulator. We found enhanced Bax in 21-GD; it was regulated by miRNA 298-5p, and Bcl2 and Caspase-3 were controlled by miRNA (by 7a-5p and not by the predicted 181a-5p). The miRNA 144-3p regulated BCL6, which was enhanced, as well as Zeb 1 and 2 induced by BCL6. These results revealed that in 21GD, the compensatory mechanisms in LP kidneys led to the activation of UB ramification. Besides, an increase of 32% in the CM stem cells and a possible cell cycle halt of renal progenitor cells, which remaining undifferentiated, were observed. In the 7DL, much more altered miRNA expression was found in LP kidneys, and this was probably due to an increased maternal diet content. Additionally, we verified the activation of pathways related to differentiation and consumption of progenitor cells.
Individualism and Egalitarianism Can Kill: How Cultural Values Predict Coronavirus Deaths Across the Globe
Authors: Güss C. Dominik , Tuason Ma. Teresa
Published: June 2021

While in some countries, many people have died due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), in other countries, only a few have died. Based on the cultural values theory, our first hypothesis was that in countries that are predominantly individualistic, the number of deaths will be high, whereas in countries with predominantly collectivist values, the number of deaths will be low. Our second hypothesis was that countries with high power distance and hierarchy will have fewer deaths compared to countries with low power distance and egalitarianism. The hypotheses were tested by referring to two different value studies (Hofstede's study of 76 countries and Schwartz's study of 75 countries) while also controlling for GDP per capita, Gini index, population density, median age per country, and BMI per country. Of the five control variables GDP and BMI significantly predicted coronavirus deaths. Taking into account GDP, Gini index, population density, median age, and BMI, hierarchical regression analyses confirmed the first hypothesis on individualism and the second hypothesis on egalitarianism. Therefore, in the case of this current pandemic, group-oriented and collectivist values and low egalitarianism values lead to specific health-related behaviors that ultimately keep more people alive.
Principles of Integrated Cognitive Training for Executive Attention: Application to an Instrumental Skill
Authors: Benso Francesco , Moretti Sandra , Bellazzini Veronica , Benso Eva , Ardu Eleonora , Gazzellini Simone
Published: June 2021

One effective cognitive treatment is the rehabilitation of working memory (WM) using an integrated approach that targets the “executive attention” system. Recent neuroscientific literature has revealed that treatment efficacy depends on the presence of various features, such as adaptivity, empathy, customization, avoidance of automatism and stereotypies, and alertness activation. Over the last two decades, an Integrated Cognitive Training (ICT) protocol has been proposed and developed; ICT takes the above-mentioned features and existing literature into account, and has been used to promote the development of reading skills. ICT has been employed in several clinical settings and involves stimulation of a specific deteriorated system (e.g., reading) and the improvement of executive attention components, thus also increasing working memory capacity. In this context, we present two experiments. In Experiment 1, participants diagnosed with dyslexia (aged between 8 and 14 years) underwent two ICT sessions a week, with home supplements, for a duration of 7 months. The participants showed a significant improvement in the reading speed of text, words, and non-words, and in the reading accuracy of text and non-words. In Experiment 2, we replicated Experiment 1, but included a comparison between two groups (experimental group vs. control group) of young participants with diagnosis of dyslexia. The experimental group was subjected to 18 ICT sessions twice a week and with home supplements, using the same protocol as in Experiment 1. The control group was entrusted to the protocol of compensatory tools and dispense/helping procedures provided by the scholastic Personalized Educational Plan. After training, the experimental group gained about 0.5 syllables per second in text reading, and a marked decrease in error rate. The control group showed no significant improvement in reading skills after the same period. Moreover, the improvement observed in the experimental group remained stable 4 months after ICT had ended. The results of these two experiments support the efficacy of the integrated ICT protocol in improving reading skills in children with dyslexia and its sustained effect.
Deontological and Altruistic Guilt Feelings: A Dualistic Thesis
Authors: Mancini Francesco , Gangemi Amelia
Published: June 2021

In this paper we argue in favor of the existence of two different guilt feelings: altruistic guilt (AG) and deontological guilt (DG). AG arises from having harmed, through one's own action or omission, an innocent victim, while DG arises from the transgression of an internalized norm. In most daily experiences of guilt feelings both types are present, but we argue that they are not traceable to each other and that each can be present without the other. We show that the two guilt feelings can be distinguished with reference to behavioral, cognitive, and neurophysiological aspects. Moreover, we demonstrate that they are differently related to other processes and emotions. AG is connected with pain, empathy and ToM. DG is strongly related to disgust. We briefly illustrate some implications for moral psychology and clinical psychology.
Cross-Sectional Study Protocol for the COVID-19 Impact Survey of Mothers and Their 7–11 Year Old Children in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Letourneau Nicole , McDonald Sheila , MacKay Lyndsay Jerusha , Bell Rhonda C. , Hetherington Erin , Deane Andrea J. , Dewey Deborah , Edwards Sarah , Field Catherine J. , Giesbrecht Gerald F. , Graham Susan , Lebel Catherine , Leung Brenda , Madigan Sheri , McArthur Brae Anne , McMorris Carly , Racine Nicole , Ross Kharah M. , Wu Muci , Tough Suzanne C.
Published: June 2021

Objectives: Our aim is to understand the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on families who have been followed longitudinally in two cohorts studied in Alberta, Canada. We will examine household infections during the COVID-19 pandemic, financial impact, domestic violence, substance use, child school and daily life and relationships in the home. We will identify risk and protective factors for maternal mental health outcomes using longitudinal data that can inform policy and government resource allocation in future disasters.

Methods: Mothers who are currently participating in two longitudinal studies, Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition (APrON; N = 1,800) and All Our Families (AOF: N = 2,534) were eligible to participate. Mothers were invited to complete the baseline COVID-19 Impact Survey (20–30 min) within 4 months of March 15, 2020, which was when the province of Alberta, Canada, implemented school closures and physical-distancing measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Mothers were asked to report on their own, their child's and their family's functioning. Mothers were re-surveyed at 6 months after completion of the initial COVID-19 Impact Survey, and will be re-surveyed again at 12 months.

Results: Responses from participants in both cohorts will be examined in harmonized analyses as well as separately. Descriptive, multivariable analysis will be undertaken to examine risk and resiliency over time and factors that predict mental health and well-being.

Conclusions: This study will provide timely information on the impact of COVID-19 for Albertan families. It will identify risk and protective factors for mental health and well-being among contemporary urban families supported by a publicly funded health care system to inform allocation of resources to support those most vulnerable during a global pandemic.
Psychometric Properties of the Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale Administered to Italian Women in the Perinatal Period
Authors: Koukopoulos Alexia , Mazza Cristina , De Chiara Lavinia , Sani Gabriele , Simonetti Alessio , Kotzalidis Georgios D. , Armani Giulia , Callovini Gemma , Bonito Marco , Parmigiani Giovanna , Ferracuti Stefano , Somerville Susanne , Roma Paolo , Angeletti Gloria
Published: June 2021

Literature stressed the importance of using valid, reliable measures to assess anxiety in the perinatal period, like the self-rated Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale (PASS). We aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Italian PASS version in a sample of Italian women undergoing mental health screening during their third trimester of pregnancy and its diagnostic accuracy in a control perinatal sample of psychiatric outpatients. Sample comprised 289 women aged 33.17 ± 5.08, range 19–46 years, undergoing fetal monitoring during their third trimester of pregnancy, with 49 of them retested 6 months postpartum. Controls were 60 antenatal or postnatal psychiatric outpatients aged 35.71 ± 5.02, range 22–50 years. Groups were assessed through identical self- and clinician-rating scales. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Pearson's correlations and receiver operating characteristic were conducted for PASS. PCA and CPA confirmed four-factor structure with slight differences from the original version. Construct validity and test-retest reliability were supported. Cut-off was 26. The PASS correlated with principal anxiety scales. Despite small sample size, findings confirm reliability and validity of the Italian PASS version in assessing anxiety symptoms in the perinatal period. Its incorporation in perinatal care will improve future mother and child psychological health.
The Community Health Worker (CHW) Common Indicators Project: Engaging CHWs in Measurement to Sustain the Profession
Authors: Rodela Keara , Wiggins Noelle , Maes Kenneth , Campos-Dominguez Teresa , Adewumi Victoria , Jewell Pennie , Mayfield-Johnson Susan
Published: June 2021

Despite progress in documenting the outcomes of Community Health Worker interventions, the lack of standardized measures to assess CHW practice has made it difficult for programs to conduct reliable evaluations, and impossible to aggregate data across programs and regions, impeding commitment to sustainable, long-term financing of CHW programs. In addition, while CHWs have sometimes been involved as data collectors, they have seldom been engaged as full partners in all stages of evaluation and research. This manuscript details the current work being done by the CI Project, demonstrating how CHWs are able to contribute to the integrity, sustainability, and viability of CHW programs through the collaborative development and adoption of a set of common process and outcome constructs and indicators for CHW practice and CHW program implementation.
Coeliac Disease—What is it and How Can People Deal With it?
Authors: Osial Magdalena , Pregowska Agnieszka
Published: June 2021

In recent years, you have likely heard that some people are eating gluten-free foods. Have you ever wondered why? Coeliac disease is one of the main reasons for this dietary choice. It affects people of all ages from all around the world. It is a genetic disorder that causes inflammation in the intestines and results in various symptoms that can be observed in other parts of the body. Unfortunately, people often ignore coeliac disease or treat it like a simple allergy. Some people may view gluten-free dietary choices as just a trend. Some food allergies can manifest like coeliac disease, but these have different causes. Coeliac disease should be taken seriously, because it may not only lead to life-threatening symptoms, but also have a chronic impact on health and quality of life.
Thermal Performance Curves of Multiple Isolates of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a Lethal Pathogen of Amphibians
Authors: Sheets Ciara N. , Schmidt Deena R. , Hurtado Paul J. , Byrne Allison Q. , Rosenblum Erica Bree , Richards-Zawacki Corinne L. , Voyles Jamie
Published: June 2021

Emerging infectious disease is a key factor in the loss of amphibian diversity. In particular, the disease chytridiomycosis has caused severe declines around the world. The lethal fungal pathogen that causes chytridiomycosis, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), has affected amphibians in many different environments. One primary question for researchers grappling with disease-induced losses of amphibian biodiversity is what abiotic factors drive Bd pathogenicity in different environments. To study environmental influences on Bd pathogenicity, we quantified responses of Bd phenotypic traits (e.g., viability, zoospore densities, growth rates, and carrying capacities) over a range of environmental temperatures to generate thermal performance curves. We selected multiple Bd isolates that belong to a single genetic lineage but that were collected across a latitudinal gradient. For the population viability, we found that the isolates had similar thermal optima at 21°C, but there was considerable variation among the isolates in maximum viability at that temperature. Additionally, we found the densities of infectious zoospores varied among isolates across all temperatures. Our results suggest that temperatures across geographic point of origin (latitude) may explain some of the variation in Bd viability through vertical shifts in maximal performance. However, the same pattern was not evident for other reproductive parameters (zoospore densities, growth rates, fecundity), underscoring the importance of measuring multiple traits to understand variation in pathogen responses to environmental conditions. We suggest that variation among Bd genetic variants due to environmental factors may be an important determinant of disease dynamics for amphibians across a range of diverse environments.
An Inverse Microphone Array Method for the Estimation of a Rotating Source Directivity
Authors: Jekosch Simon , Sarradj Ennes
Published: June 2021

Microphone arrays methods are useful for determining the location and magnitude of rotating acoustic sources. This work presents an approach to calculating a discrete directivity pattern of a rotating sound source using inverse microphone array methods. The proposed method is divided into three consecutive steps. Firstly, a virtual rotating array method that compensates for motion of the source is employed in order to calculate the cross-spectral matrix. Secondly, the source locations are determined by a covariance matrix fitting approach. Finally, the sound source directivity is calculated using the inverse method SODIX on a reduced focus grid. Experimental validation and synthetic data from a simulation are used for the verification of the method. For this purpose, a rotating parametric loudspeaker array with a controllable steering pattern is designed. Five different directivity patterns of the rotating source are compared. The proposed method compensates for source motion and is able to reconstruct the location as well the directivity pattern of the rotating beam source.
Biological Activity of Root Extract Decalepis hamiltonii (Wight & Arn) against Three Mosquito Vectors and Their Non-Toxicity against the Mosquito Predators
Authors: Prakash Palanisamy , Gayathiri Ekambaram , Manivasagaperumal Rengarajan , Krutmuang Patcharin
Published: June 2021

Bioactive molecules of plant origin play a significant role as defensive agents in different insect species. Chemical compounds in medicinal plants have been an exciting alternative to standard methods of controlling mosquito larvae. The present study evaluates the different solvent extracts of D. hamiltonii for toxicity against three different mosquito larvae. Bioassay revealed that the effect of the methanol extracts increased the larval mortality with increasing concentration. The highest larval mortality was observed in Culex quinquefasciatus with 98.33%, followed by 95 and 90% mortality in Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi, at 24 h exposure. GC-MS analysis of methanol extract of D. hamiltonii showed six major peak compounds. They are benzaldehyde, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-(10.35%), dodecanoic acid (11.02%), n-hexadecanoic acid (21.05%), linoleic acid methyl ester (14.20%), oleic acid (21.04%), octadecanoic acid (22.21%). The level of α and β Carboxylesterases gets significantly decreased post-treatment with the methanol extract of D. hamiltonii in a dose-dependent manner.In contrast, glutathione S-transferase (GST) and cytochrome-P450 (CYP450) levels get up-lifted steadily when the dosage gets increased. The ratio of GST level has drastically proclaimed to in Ae. aegypti 0.702 mg/m Lin parallel to Cx. quiquefasciatus (0.656 mg/mL) and An. stephensi (0.812 mg/mL). Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) activity was observed to increase significantly post-treatment with the sub-lethal dosage of methanol extract of D. hamiltonii. Correspondingly, the non-target screening against the aquatic predators reveals that the crude root extracts and their derivatives are ecologically safe and less toxic. Overall, the present research highlights the chemical characterization of crude methanol extracts of D. hamiltonii, their insecticidal activity against the medically challenging pests, and their non-target activity delivers an ecologically safe, and target specific bio-active agents and suitable substitute for chemical pesticides.
Exploiting Thrips Aggregation Pheromones to Develop a Lure-and-Kill Strategy for the Management of the Bean Flower Thrips
Authors: Mfuti David K. , Tamiru Amanuel , Kirk William D. J. , Akinyemi Adeyemi O. , Campbell Heather , O’Brien Matthew , Drijfhout Falko P. , Pope Tom W. , Niassy Saliou , Subramanian Sevgan
Published: June 2021

The potential of semiochemicals to lure insect pests to a trap where they can be killed with biopesticides has been demonstrated as an eco-friendly pest management alternative. In this study, we tested two recently characterized male-produced aggregation pheromones of the bean flower thrips Megalurothrips sjostedti (Trybom), namely (R)-lavandulyl 3-methylbutanoate (major) and (R)-lavandulol (minor), for their field efficacy. Moreover, compatibility of these pheromones and two other thrips attractants, Lurem-TR and neryl (S)-2-methylbutanoate, with the entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) Metarhizium anisopliae ICIPE 69 has been determined. Our study revealed that the M. sjostedti aggregation pheromones have dose-dependent antifungal effects on the EPF viability, but showed no fungistatic effect at a field-realistic dose for attraction of thrips. (R)-lavandulyl 3-methylbutanoate had similar antifungal effects as neryl (S)-2-methylbutanoate 8 days after exposure; whereas, Lurem-TR had a stronger antifungal effect than other thrips attractants. In the semi-field experiments, all autoinoculation devices maintained at least 86% viability of M. anisopliae conidia after 12 days of exposure. Field trials demonstrated for the first time that (R)-lavandulyl 3-methylbutanoate increases trap catches. Our findings pave a way for designing a lure-and-kill thrips management strategy to control bean flower thrips using autoinoculation devices or spot spray application.
Expression of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Isoforms in Canine Endometrium with Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia–Pyometra Complex
Authors: Rybska Marta , Woźna-Wysocka Magdalena , Wąsowska Barbara , Skrzypski Marek , Kubiak Magdalena , Błaszak Beata , Łukomska Anna , Nowak Tomasz , Jaśkowski Jędrzej M.
Published: June 2021

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra are the most frequently diagnosed uterine diseases affecting bitches of different ages. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) has been classified in females as a potential regulator of many endometrial changes during the estrous cycle or may be involved in pathological disorders. The aim of this study was to determine the expression of TGF-β1, -β2 and -β3 in the endometrium of bitches suffering from CEH or a CEH–pyometra complex compared to clinically healthy females (control group; CG). A significantly increased level of TGF-β1 mRNA expression was observed in the endometrium with CEH–pyometra compared to CEH and CG. Protein production of TGF-β1 was identified only in the endometrium of bitches with CEH–pyometra. An increase in TGF-β3 mRNA expression was observed in all the studied groups compared to CG. The expression of TGF-β2 mRNA was significantly higher in CEH and lower in CEH–pyometra uteri. The results indicate the presence of TGF-β cytokines in canine endometrial tissues affected by proliferative and degenerative changes. However, among all TGF-β isoforms, TGF-β1 could potentially be a key factor involved in the regulation of the endometrium in bitches with CEH–pyometra complex.
Can Plants Move Like Animals? A Three-Dimensional Stereovision Analysis of Movement in Plants
Authors: Simonetti Valentina , Bulgheroni Maria , Guerra Silvia , Peressotti Alessandro , Peressotti Francesca , Baccinelli Walter , Ceccarini Francesco , Bonato Bianca , Wang Qiuran , Castiello Umberto
Published: June 2021

In this article we adapt a methodology customarily used to investigate movement in animals to study the movement of plants. The targeted movement is circumnutation, a helical organ movement widespread among plants. It is variable due to a different magnitude of the trajectory (amplitude) exhibited by the organ tip, duration of one cycle (period), circular, elliptical, pendulum-like or irregular shape and the clockwise and counterclockwise direction of rotation. The acquisition setup consists of two cameras used to obtain a stereoscopic vision for each plant. Cameras switch to infrared recording mode for low light level conditions, allowing continuous motion acquisition during the night. A dedicated software enables semi-automatic tracking of key points of the plant and reconstructs the 3D trajectory of each point along the whole movement. Three-dimensional trajectories for different points undergo a specific processing to compute those features suitable to describe circumnutation (e.g., maximum speed, circumnutation center, circumnutation length, etc.). By applying our method to the approach-to-grasp movement exhibited by climbing plants (Pisum sativum L.) it appears clear that the plants scale movement kinematics according to the features of the support in ways that are adaptive, flexible, anticipatory and goal-directed, reminiscent of how animals would act.
Molecular Epidemiology, Virulence Traits and Antimicrobial Resistance Signatures of Aeromonas spp. in the Critically Endangered Iberochondrostoma lusitanicum Follow Geographical and Seasonal Patterns
Authors: Grilo Miguel L. , Isidoro Sara , Chambel Lélia , Marques Carolina S. , Marques Tiago A. , Sousa-Santos Carla , Robalo Joana I. , Oliveira Manuela
Published: June 2021

Despite the fact that freshwater fish populations are experiencing severe declines worldwide, our knowledge on the interaction between endangered populations and pathogenic agents remains scarce. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and structure of Aeromonas communities isolated from the critically endangered Iberochondrostoma lusitanicum, a model species for threatened Iberian leuciscids, as well as health parameters in this species. Additionally, we evaluated the virulence profiles, antimicrobial resistance signatures and genomic relationships of the Aeromonas isolates. Lesion prevalence, extension and body condition were deeply affected by location and seasonality, with poorer performances in the dry season. Aeromonas composition shifted among seasons and was also different across river streams. The pathogenic potential of the isolates significantly increased during the dry season. Additionally, isolates displaying clinically relevant antimicrobial resistance phenotypes (carbapenem and fluroquinolone resistance) were detected. As it inhabits intermittent rivers, often reduced to disconnected pools during the summer, the dry season is a critical period for I. lusitanicum, with lower general health status and a higher potential of infection by Aeromonas spp. Habitat quality seems a determining factor on the sustainable development of this fish species. Also, these individuals act as reservoirs of important antimicrobial resistant bacteria with potential implications for public health.
A Flow Analysis Using a Water Tunnel of an Innovative Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Lis Dawid , Januszko Adam , Dobrocinski Tadeusz
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this article is to present and discuss the results of a non-standard unnamed aerial vehicle construction with a constant cross-section square-shaped avionic profile. Based on the model’s in-air observed maneuverability, the research of avionic construction behavior was carried out in a water tunnel. The results show the model’s specific lift capabilities in comparison to classical avionic constructions. The characteristic results of the lift coefficient showed that the unmanned aerial vehicle presents favorable features than classic avionic constructions. The model was created with the prospect of using it in the future for dual-use purposes, where unmanned aerial vehicles are currently experiencing very rapid development. When creating the prototype, the focus was on low production cost, as well as convenience in operation. The development of this type of breakthrough avionic solution, which shows extraordinary maneuverability, may contribute to increasing the popularity and, above all, the availability of unmanned aerial vehicles for the largest possible group of recipients because of high avionic properties in relation to the technical construction complexity.
Phenotypical and Functional Characteristics of Human Regulatory T Cells during Ex Vivo Maturation from CD4+ T Lymphocytes
Authors: Blinova Varvara G. , Novachly Natalia S. , Gippius Sofya N. , Hilal Abdullah , Gladilina Yulia A. , Eliseeva Daria D. , Zhdanov Dmitry D.
Published: June 2021

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) participate in the negative regulation of inflammatory reactions by suppressing effector cells. In a number of autoimmune disorders, the suppressive function and/or the number of Tregs is compromised. The lack of active functioning Tregs can be restored with adoptive transfer of expanded ex vivo autologous Tregs. In our study, we traced the differentiation and maturation of Tregs CD4+CD25+FoxP3+CD127low over 7 days of cultivation from initial CD4+ T cells under ex vivo conditions. The resulting ex vivo expanded cell population (eTregs) demonstrated the immune profile of Tregs with an increased capacity to suppress the proliferation of target effector cells. The expression of the FoxP3 gene was upregulated within the time of expansion and was associated with gradual demethylation in the promotor region of the T cell-specific demethylation region. Real-time RT-PCR analysis revealed changes in the expression profile of genes involved in cell cycle regulation. In addition to FOXP3, the cells displayed elevated mRNA levels of Ikaros zinc finger transcription factors and the main telomerase catalytic subunit hTERT. Alternative splicing of FoxP3, hTERT and IKZF family members was demonstrated to be involved in eTreg maturation. Our data indicate that expanded ex vivo eTregs develop a Treg-specific phenotype and functional suppressive activity. We suggest that eTregs are not just expanded but transformed cells with enhanced capacities of immune suppression. Our findings may influence further development of cell immunosuppressive therapy based on regulatory T cells.
Special Issue on the Recent Advances in Safe Maritime Operations under Extreme Conditions
Authors: Kujala Pentti , Hirdaris Spyros , Bergström Martin
Published: June 2021

The increased activity in the Arctic involves hazards such as a harsh environment, especially the ice cover and cold temperature, remoteness and lack of infrastructure, and lack of information about bathymetry, among others [...]
ULF Activity in the Earth Environment: Penetration of Electric Field from the Near-Ground Source to the Ionosphere under Different Configurations of the Geomagnetic Field
Authors: Yutsis Vsevolod , Rapoport Yuriy , Grimalsky Volodymyr , Grytsai Asen , Ivchenko Vasyl , Petrishchevskii Sergei , Fedorenko Alla , Krivodubskij Valery
Published: June 2021

The problem with the penetration of electric fields from atmospheric near-Earth electric current sources to the ionosphere is investigated both within the dynamic simulations of the Maxwell equations in the frequency domain and within the simplified quasi-electrostatic approach. Two cases of the geomagnetic field lines are considered. The first case is the penetration of the geomagnetic field lines deeply into the magnetosphere (open field lines), whereas the second one is the return of these lines into the Earth’s surface (closed field lines). The proper boundary conditions are formulated. It is demonstrated that in the case of the open field lines the results of the dynamic simulations differ essentially from the quasi-electrostatic approach, which is not valid there. In the case of the closed field lines, the results of simulations are practically the same both within the dynamic approach and within the quasi-electrostatic one. From realistic values of the densities of atmospheric electric currents ~0.1 µA/m2, the values of the electric fields within the ionosphere F-layer may reach about 1–10 mV/m.
Pilot Clinical Study Investigating the Thermal Physiology of Breast Cancer via High-Resolution Infrared Imaging
Authors: Lozano Adolfo , Hayes Jody C. , Compton Lindsay M. , Hassanipour Fatemeh
Published: June 2021

This descriptive study investigates breast thermal characteristics in females histologically diagnosed with unilateral breast cancer and in their contralateral normal breasts. The multi-institutional clinical pilot study was reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) at participating institutions. Eleven female subjects with radiologic breast abnormalities were enrolled in the study between June 2019 and September 2019 after informed consent was obtained. Static infrared images were recorded for each subject. The Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to conduct paired comparisons in temperature data between breasts among the eight histologically diagnosed breast cancer subjects (n = 8). Localized temperatures of cancerous breast lesions were significantly warmer than corresponding regions in contralateral breasts (34.0 ± 0.9 °C vs. 33.2 ± 0.5 °C, p = 0.0142, 95% CI 0.25–1.5 °C). Generalized temperatures over cancerous breasts, in contrast, were not significantly warmer than corresponding regions in contralateral breasts (33.9 ± 0.8 °C vs. 33.4 ± 0.4 °C, p = 0.0625, 95% CI −0.05–1.45 °C). Among the breast cancers enrolled, breast cancers elevated temperatures locally at the site of the lesion (localized hyperthermia), but not over the entire breast (generalized hyperthermia).
DDR1 Affects Metabolic Reprogramming in Breast Cancer Cells by Cross-Talking to the Insulin/IGF System
Authors: Vella Veronica , Giuliano Marika , Nicolosi Maria Luisa , Majorana Maria Giovanna , Marć Małgorzata Anna , Muoio Maria Grazia , Morrione Andrea , Maggiolini Marcello , Lappano Rosamaria , De Francesco Ernestina Marianna , Belfiore Antonino
Published: June 2021

The insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A), a dual receptor for insulin and IGF2, plays a role in breast cancer (BC) progression and metabolic reprogramming. Notably, discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), a collagen receptor often dysregulated in cancer, is involved in a functional crosstalk and feed forward loop with both the IR-A and the insulin like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF1R). Here, we aimed at investigating whether DDR1 might affect BC cell metabolism by modulating the IGF1R and/or the IR. To this aim, we generated MCF7 BC cells engineered to stably overexpress either IGF2 (MCF7/IGF2) or the IR-A (MCF7/IR-A). In both cell models, we observed that DDR1 silencing induced a significant decrease of total ATP production, particularly affecting the rate of mitochondrial ATP production. We also observed the downregulation of key molecules implicated in both glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation. These metabolic changes were not modulated by DDR1 binding to collagen and occurred in part in the absence of IR/IGF1R phosphorylation. DDR1 silencing was ineffective in MCF7 knocked out for DDR1. Taken together, these results indicate that DDR1, acting in part independently of IR/IGF1R stimulation, might work as a novel regulator of BC metabolism and should be considered as putative target for therapy in BC.