bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outboard Onset of Ross Orogen Magmatism and Subsequent Igneous and Metamorphic Cooling Linked to Slab Rollback during Late-Stage Gondwana Assembly
Authors: Paulsen Timothy , Encarnación John , Grunow Anne , Benowitz Jeffrey , Layer Paul , Deering Chad , Sliwinski Jakub
Published: April 2023

Changes in magmatism and sedimentation along the late Neoproterozoic-early Paleozoic Ross orogenic belt in Antarctica have been linked to the cessation of convergence along the Mozambique belt during the assembly of East-West Gondwana. However, these interpretations are non-unique and are based, in part, on limited thermochronological data sets spread out along large sectors of the East Antarctic margin. We report new 40Ar/39Ar hornblende, muscovite, and biotite age data for plutonic (n = 13) and metasedimentary (n = 3) samples from the Shackleton–Liv Glacier sector of the Queen Maud Mountains in Antarctica. Cumulative 40Ar/39Ar age data show polymodal age peaks (510 Ma, 491 Ma, 475 Ma) that lag peaks in U-Pb igneous crystallization ages, suggesting igneous and metamorphic cooling following magmatism within the region. The 40Ar/39Ar ages are similar to ages in other sectors of the Ross orogen, but younger than detrital mineral 40Ar/39Ar cooling ages indicative of older magmatism and cooling of unexposed inboard areas along the margin. Detrital zircon trace element abundances suggest that the widespread onset of magmatism in outboard localities of the orogen correlates with a ~560–530 Ma decrease in crustal thickness. The timing of crustal thinning recorded by zircon in magmas overlaps with other evidence for the timing of crustal extension, suggesting that the regional onset of magmatism with subsequent igneous and metamorphic cooling probably reflects slab rollback that coincided with possible global plate motion changes induced during the final assembly of Gondwana.
Identification of miRNAs Involved in Male Fertility and Pollen Development in Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. by High-Throughput Sequencing
Authors: Sajad Shoukat , Dai Qian , Yang Jing , Song Jianghua
Published: April 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenously expressed, non-coding RNAs that play essential roles in numerous developmental and physiological processes in plants. However, there is a lack of data available on regulating fertility in cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.). This study examined the expression of miRNAs during cabbage pollen development using high-throughput sequencing. Two small RNA libraries were constructed from flower buds from the cytoplasmic male-sterile (CMS) line and its maintainer fertile (MF) linee of cabbage, resulting in over 10 million sequence reads. A total of 211 new miRNAs and 7 conserved miRNAs were discovered. Eight randomly chosen miRNAs were found to have differential expression between CMS and MF, as determined by stem-loop quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The expression patterns were similar to those detected with Illumina sequencing. Moreover, the possible targets of these putative miRNAs were inferred using a BlastX search and Gene Ontology (GO) analysis. The majority of targets have been indicated to be essential for the development of pollen or other plant parts. The discovery and characterization of miRNAs involved in pollen development in CMS and MF cabbage lines might drive research on the regulatory mechanisms of male sterility, leading to a better understanding of the crucial roles performed by miRNAs in this process.
Association between Chronic Environmental Lead (Pb) Exposure and Cytokines in Males and Females of Reproductive Age from Kabwe, Zambia
Authors: Kataba Andrew , Yohannes Yared Beyene , Nakata Hokuto , Yabe John , Toyomaki Haruya , Muzandu Kaampwe , Zyambo Golden , Ikenaka Yoshinori , Choongo Kennedy , Ishizuka Mayumi , Nakayama Shouta M. M.
Published: April 2023

Lead (Pb) poisoning remains a great public health challenge globally known to induce a wide range of ailments in both children and adults. The current study investigated the association of chronic environmental Pb exposure and immunomodulatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in adult males and females living in Kabwe, Zambia. The standard human cytokine/chemokine Milliplex assay was used to quantify plasma cytokines from four groups categorized as low (<10 μg/dL) and high (>10 μg/dL) blood lead level (BLL) groups, namely, low BLL female (n = 47; BLL = 3.76 μg/dL), low BLL Male (n = 43; BLL = 4.13 μg/dL), high BLL female (n = 21; BLL = 23.5 μg/dL), and high BLL male (n = 18; BLL = 23.7 μg/dL), respectively. The low BLL group was associated with increased TNF-α levels, and the high BLL group was associated with reduced TNF-α levels in female subjects. No associations between BLL and the levels of IL-8 and TNF-α cytokines were observed in either females or males, respectively. A negative correlation between BLL and TNF-α was found in female subjects, suggesting that an increase in BLL accompanied by a reduction in TNF-α. The reduced levels of circulating TNF-α in female subjects suggest that chronic Pb exposure could predispose females to immune and inflammation-related disorders than their male counterparts. Further studies are recommended to ascertain the impact of chronic Pb exposure on immunomodulatory cytokines, especially in females.
Interdisciplinary Children’s Behavioral Health Workforce Development for Social Work and Nursing
Authors: Palley Elizabeth , White Chireau , Newransky Chrisann , Abram Marissa
Published: April 2023

This paper will begin with a review of child health inequities globally, in the United States and in the State of New York. It will then describe a model training program that was designed to educate social workers and nurse practitioners to create a workforce able to address child behavioral health inequities in the United States (US), specifically New York State. Behavioral health care refers to prevention, care and treatment for mental health and substance abuse conditions as well as physical conditions caused by stress and life crises. This project uses an interdisciplinary training program for nurse practitioner and Master of Social Work students to address workforce shortages in underserved communities in New York State. It will present process evaluation findings to highlight the program’s initial success and will conclude with a discussion of the data that are still needed and the challenges of obtaining this data.
Development Process, Quantitative Models, and Future Directions in Driving Analysis of Urban Expansion
Authors: Guan Xuefeng , Li Jingbo , Yang Changlan , Xing Weiran
Published: April 2023

Driving analysis of urban expansion (DAUE) is usually implemented to identify the driving factors and their corresponding driving effects/mechanisms for the expansion processes of urban land, aiming to provide scientific guidance for urban planning and management. Based on a thorough analysis and summarization of the development process and quantitative models, four major limitations in existing DAUE studies have been uncovered: (1) the interactions in hierarchical urban systems have not been fully explored; (2) the employed data cannot fully depict urban dynamic through finer social perspectives; (3) the employed models cannot deal with high-level feature correlations; and (4) the simulation and analysis models are still not intrinsically integrated. Four future directions are thus proposed: (1) to pay attention to the hierarchical characteristics of urban systems and conduct multi-scale research on the complex interactions within them to capture dynamic features; (2) to leverage remote sensing data so as to obtain diverse urban expansion data and assimilate multi-source spatiotemporal big data to supplement novel socio-economic driving factors; (3) to integrate with interpretable data-driven machine learning techniques to bolster the performance and reliability of DAUE models; and (4) to construct mechanism-coupled urban simulation to achieve a complementary enhancement and facilitate theory development and testing for urban land systems.
Predicting Earthquake-Induced Landslides by Using a Stochastic Modeling Approach: A Case Study of the 2001 El Salvador Coseismic Landslides
Authors: Mercurio Claudio , Calderón-Cucunuba Laura Paola , Argueta-Platero Abel Alexei , Azzara Grazia , Cappadonia Chiara , Martinello Chiara , Rotigliano Edoardo , Conoscenti Christian
Published: April 2023

In January and February 2001, El Salvador was hit by two strong earthquakes that triggered thousands of landslides, causing 1259 fatalities and extensive damage. The analysis of aerial and SPOT-4 satellite images allowed us to map 6491 coseismic landslides, mainly debris slides and flows that occurred in volcanic epiclastites and pyroclastites. Four different multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) models were produced using different predictors and landslide inventories which contain slope failures triggered by an extreme rainfall event in 2009 and those induced by the earthquakes of 2001. In a predictive analysis, three validation scenarios were employed: the first and the second included 25% and 95% of the landslides, respectively, while the third was based on a k-fold spatial cross-validation. The results of our analysis revealed that: (i) the MARS algorithm provides reliable predictions of coseismic landslides; (ii) a better ability to predict coseismic slope failures was observed when including susceptibility to rainfall-triggered landslides as an independent variable; (iii) the best accuracy is achieved by models trained with both preparatory and trigger variables; (iv) an incomplete inventory of coseismic slope failures built just after the earthquake event can be used to identify potential locations of yet unreported landslides.
N-Acetyl-L-cysteine Affects Ototoxicity Evoked by Amikacin and Furosemide Either Alone or in Combination in a Mouse Model of Hearing Threshold Decrease
Authors: Zadrożniak Marek , Szymański Marcin , Łuszczki Jarogniew J.
Published: April 2023

Drug-induced ototoxicity resulting from therapy with aminoglycoside antibiotics and loop diuretics is one of the main well-known causes of hearing loss in patients. Unfortunately, no specific protection and prevention from hearing loss are recommended for these patients. This study aimed at evaluating the ototoxic effects produced by mixtures of amikacin (AMI, an aminoglycoside antibiotic) and furosemide (FUR, a loop diuretic) in the mouse model as the hearing threshold decreased by 20% and 50% using auditory brainstem responses (ABRs). Ototoxicity was produced by the combinations of a constant dose of AMI (500 mg/kg; i.p.) on FUR-induced hearing threshold decreases, and a fixed dose of FUR (30 mg/kg; i.p.) on AMI-induced hearing threshold decreases, which were determined in two sets of experiments. Additionally, the effects of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC; 500 mg/kg; i.p.) on the hearing threshold decrease of 20% and 50% were determined by means of an isobolographic transformation of interactions to detect the otoprotective action of NAC in mice. The results indicate that the influence of a constant dose of AMI on FUR-induced hearing threshold decreases was more ototoxic in experimental mice than a fixed dose of FUR on AMI-induced ototoxicity. Moreover, NAC reversed the AMI-induced, but not FUR-induced, hearing threshold decreases in this mouse model of hearing loss. NAC could be considered an otoprotectant in the prevention of hearing loss in patients receiving AMI alone and in combination with FUR.
Fully Aqueous Self-Assembly of a Gold-Nanoparticle-Based Pathogen Sensor
Authors: Robson Timothy , Shah Deepan S. H. , Welbourn Rebecca J. L. , Phillips Sion R. , Clifton Luke A. , Lakey Jeremy H.
Published: April 2023

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is a very sensitive measure of biomolecular interactions but is generally too expensive for routine analysis of clinical samples. Here we demonstrate the simplified formation of virus-detecting gold nanoparticle (AuNP) assemblies on glass using only aqueous buffers at room temperature. The AuNP assembled on silanized glass and displayed a distinctive absorbance peak due to the localized SPR (LSPR) response of the AuNPs. Next, assembly of a protein engineering scaffold was followed using LSPR and a sensitive neutron reflectometry approach, which measured the formation and structure of the biological layer on the spherical AuNP. Finally, the assembly and function of an artificial flu sensor layer consisting of an in vitro-selected single-chain antibody (scFv)-membrane protein fusion was followed using the LSPR response of AuNPs within glass capillaries. In vitro selection avoids the need for separate animal-derived antibodies and allows for the rapid production of low-cost sensor proteins. This work demonstrates a simple approach to forming oriented arrays of protein sensors on nanostructured surfaces that uses (i) an easily assembled AuNP silane layer, (ii) self-assembly of an oriented protein layer on AuNPs, and (iii) simple highly specific artificial receptor proteins.
A 3D-Printed Biomaterial Scaffold Reinforced with Inorganic Fillers for Bone Tissue Engineering: In Vitro Assessment and In Vivo Animal Studies
Authors: Sithole Mduduzi N. , Kumar Pradeep , Du Toit Lisa C. , Erlwanger Kennedy H. , Ubanako Philemon N. , Choonara Yahya E.
Published: April 2023

This research aimed to substantiate the potential practicality of utilizing a matrix-like platform, a novel 3D-printed biomaterial scaffold, to enhance and guide host cells’ growth for bone tissue regeneration. The 3D biomaterial scaffold was successfully printed using a 3D Bioplotter® (EnvisionTEC, GmBH) and characterized. Osteoblast-like MG63 cells were utilized to culture the novel printed scaffold over a period of 1, 3, and 7 days. Cell adhesion and surface morphology were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy, while cell viability was determined using MTS assay and cell proliferation was evaluated using a Leica microsystem (Leica MZ10 F). The 3D-printed biomaterial scaffold exhibited essential biomineral trace elements that are significant for biological bone (e.g., Ca-P) and were confirmed through energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The microscopy analyses revealed that the osteoblast-like MG63 cells were attached to the printed scaffold surface. The viability of cultured cells on the control and printed scaffold increased over time (p < 0.05); however, on respective days (1, 3, and 7 days), the viability of cultured cells between the two groups was not significantly different (p > 0.05). The protein (human BMP-7, also known as growth factor) was successfully attached to the surface of the 3D-printed biomaterial scaffold as an initiator of osteogenesis in the site of the induced bone defect. An in vivo study was conducted to substantiate if the novel printed scaffold properties were engineered adequately to mimic the bone regeneration cascade using an induced rabbit critical-sized nasal bone defect. The novel printed scaffold provided a potential pro-regenerative platform, rich in mechanical, topographical, and biological cues to guide and activate host cells toward functional regeneration. The histological studies revealed that there was progress in new bone formation, especially at week 8 of the study, in all induced bone defects. In conclusion, the protein (human BMP-7)-embedded scaffolds showed higher regenerative bone formation potential (week 8 complete) compared to the scaffolds without protein (e.g., growth factor; BMP-7) and the control (empty defect). At 8 weeks postimplantation, protein (BMP-7) significantly promoted osteogenesis as compared to other groups. The scaffold underwent gradual degradation and replacement by new bones at 8 weeks in most defects.
The Role of TGF-β3 in Radiation Response
Authors: Hanson Ingunn , Pitman Kathinka E. , Edin Nina F. J.
Published: April 2023

Transforming growth factor-beta 3 (TGF-β3) is a ubiquitously expressed multifunctional cytokine involved in a range of physiological and pathological conditions, including embryogenesis, cell cycle regulation, immunoregulation, and fibrogenesis. The cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation are employed in cancer radiotherapy, but its actions also influence cellular signaling pathways, including that of TGF-β3. Furthermore, the cell cycle regulating and anti-fibrotic effects of TGF-β3 have identified it as a potential mitigator of radiation- and chemotherapy-induced toxicity in healthy tissue. This review discusses the radiobiology of TGF-β3, its induction in tissue by ionizing radiation, and its potential radioprotective and anti-fibrotic effects.
Once upon a Testis: The Tale of Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterase in Testicular Cancers
Authors: Campolo Federica , Assenza Maria Rita , Venneri Mary Anna , Barbagallo Federica
Published: April 2023

Phosphodiesterases are key regulators that fine tune the intracellular levels of cyclic nucleotides, given their ability to hydrolyze cAMP and cGMP. They are critical regulators of cAMP/cGMP-mediated signaling pathways, modulating their downstream biological effects such as gene expression, cell proliferation, cell-cycle regulation but also inflammation and metabolic function. Recently, mutations in PDE genes have been identified and linked to human genetic diseases and PDEs have been demonstrated to play a potential role in predisposition to several tumors, especially in cAMP-sensitive tissues. This review summarizes the current knowledge and most relevant findings regarding the expression and regulation of PDE families in the testis focusing on PDEs role in testicular cancer development.
On the Nature of Stationary and Time-Resolved Fluorescence Spectroscopy of Collagen Powder from Bovine Achilles Tendon
Authors: Saletnik Łukasz , Szczęsny Wojciech , Szmytkowski Jakub , Fisz Jacek J.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a more systematic study of steady-state and time-resolved autofluorescence spectroscopy of collagen isolated from bovine Achilles tendon. In steady-state fluorescence measurements, the excitation and emission spectra of collagen powder, recorded at different fluorescence excitation and detection wavelengths, were compared with the fluorescence excitation and emission spectra of the amino acids phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, as well as with similar spectra for 13 autofluorescent collagen cross-links, which have been identified and described in the literature so far. In time-resolved studies, fluorescence was excited by the pulsed light of different wavelengths, and for each excitation wavelength, fluorescence decay was recorded for several detection wavelengths. Data analysis allowed recovery of the fluorescence decay times for each experimental excitation detection event. The obtained information on the decay times of the measured fluorescent signals was discussed, taking into account the available literature data from similar studies of isolated collagen and collagen-rich tissues. Based on the obtained results, it was found that the shape and position of the measured fluorescence excitation and emission spectra of collagen strongly depend on the emission and excitation wavelengths selected in the measurements. From the recorded excitation and emission bands of collagen, it can be concluded with high probability that there are additional, so far unidentified, collagen cross-links, which can be excited at longer excitation wavelengths. In addition, the collagen excitation spectra were measured at longer emission wavelengths at which the collagen cross-links emit fluorescent light. In addition to the emission spectra obtained for excitation in the deep-UV region, the results of time-resolved fluorescence studies with excitation in the deep-UV region and detection at longer wavelengths suggest that fluorescence excitation energy transfer processes occur from the amino acids to the collagen cross-links, and also between the cross-links themselves.
Blue Native PAGE–Antibody Shift in Conjunction with Mass Spectrometry to Reveal Protein Subcomplexes: Detection of a Cerebellar α1/α6-Subunits Containing γ-Aminobutyric Acid Type A Receptor Subtype
Authors: Chen Miao , Koopmans Frank , Paliukhovich Iryna , van der Spek Sophie J. F. , Dong Jian , Smit August B. , Li Ka Wan
Published: April 2023

The pentameric γ-Aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABAARs) are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate the majority of inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. In the cerebellum, the two main receptor subtypes are the 2α1/2β/γ and 2α6/2β/δ subunits. In the present study, an interaction proteomics workflow was used to reveal additional subtypes that contain both α1 and α6 subunits. Immunoprecipitation of the α6 subunit from mouse brain cerebellar extract co-purified the α1 subunit. In line with this, pre-incubation of the cerebellar extract with anti-α6 antibodies and analysis by blue native gel electrophoresis mass-shifted part of the α1 complexes, indicative of the existence of an α1α6-containing receptor. Subsequent mass spectrometry of the blue native gel showed the α1α6-containing receptor subtype to exist in two main forms, i.e., with or without Neuroligin-2. Immunocytochemistry on a cerebellar granule cell culture revealed co-localization of α6 and α1 in post-synaptic puncta that apposed the presynaptic marker protein Vesicular GABA transporter, indicative of the presence of this synaptic GABAAR subtype.
HBV Infection and Host Interactions: The Role in Viral Persistence and Oncogenesis
Authors: Nevola Riccardo , Beccia Domenico , Rosato Valerio , Ruocco Rachele , Mastrocinque Davide , Villani Angela , Perillo Pasquale , Imbriani Simona , Delle Femine Augusto , Criscuolo Livio , Alfano Maria , La Montagna Marco , Russo Antonio , Marfella Raffaele , Cozzolino Domenico , Sasso Ferdinando Carlo , Rinaldi Luca , Marrone Aldo , Adinolfi Luigi Elio , Claar Ernesto
Published: April 2023

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite the advent of vaccines and potent antiviral agents able to suppress viral replication, recovery from chronic HBV infection is still an extremely difficult goal to achieve. Complex interactions between virus and host are responsible for HBV persistence and the risk of oncogenesis. Through multiple pathways, HBV is able to silence both innate and adaptive immunological responses and become out of control. Furthermore, the integration of the viral genome into that of the host and the production of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) represent reservoirs of viral persistence and account for the difficult eradication of the infection. An adequate knowledge of the virus–host interaction mechanisms responsible for viral persistence and the risk of hepatocarcinogenesis is necessary for the development of functional cures for chronic HBV infection. The purpose of this review is, therefore, to analyze how interactions between HBV and host concur in the mechanisms of infection, persistence, and oncogenesis and what are the implications and the therapeutic perspectives that follow.
Improving the Treatment Effect of Carotenoids on Alzheimer’s Disease through Various Nano-Delivery Systems
Authors: Su Wenjing , Xu Wenhao , Liu Enshuo , Su Weike , Polyakov Nikolay E.
Published: April 2023

Natural bioactive compounds have recently emerged as a current strategy for Alzheimer’s disease treatment. Carotenoids, including astaxanthin, lycopene, lutein, fucoxanthin, crocin and others are natural pigments and antioxidants, and can be used to treat a variety of diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. However, carotenoids, as oil-soluble substances with additional unsaturated groups, suffer from low solubility, poor stability and poor bioavailability. Therefore, the preparation of various nano-drug delivery systems from carotenoids is a current measure to achieve efficient application of carotenoids. Different carotenoid delivery systems can improve the solubility, stability, permeability and bioavailability of carotenoids to a certain extent to achieve Alzheimer’s disease efficacy. This review summarizes recent data on different carotenoid nano-drug delivery systems for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, including polymer, lipid, inorganic and hybrid nano-drug delivery systems. These drug delivery systems have been shown to have a beneficial therapeutic effect on Alzheimer’s disease to a certain extent.
Coexisting Nodular Sclerosis Hodgkin Lymphoma and Kimura’s Disease: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Lee Chih-Chun , Chang Sing-Ya , Teng Wen-Chieh , Wu Chih-Ju , Liu Chi-Hung , Huang Szu-Wei , Wu Chiao-En , Yu Kuang-Hui , Chan Tien-Ming
Published: April 2023

Kimura’s disease (KD) is a rare lymphoproliferative fibroinflammatory disorder that commonly affects the subcutaneous tissue and lymph nodes of the head and neck. The condition is a reactive process involving T helper type 2 cytokines. Concurrent malignancies have not been described. Differential diagnosis with lymphoma can be challenging without tissue biopsy. Here, we present the first reported case of coexisting KD and eosinophilic nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma of the right cervical lymphatics in a 72-year-old Taiwanese man.
Exploring Neural Dynamics in Source Code Processing Domain
Authors: Saletta Martina , Ferretti Claudio
Published: April 2023

Deep neural networks have proven to be able to learn rich internal representations, including for features that can also be used for different purposes than those the networks are originally developed for. In this paper, we are interested in exploring such ability and, to this aim, we propose a novel approach for investigating the internal behavior of networks trained for source code processing tasks. Using a simple autoencoder trained in the reconstruction of vectors representing programs (i.e., program embeddings), we first analyze the performance of the internal neurons in classifying programs according to different labeling policies inspired by real programming issues, showing that some neurons can actually detect different program properties. We then study the dynamics of the network from an information-theoretic standpoint, namely by considering the neurons as signaling systems and by computing the corresponding entropy. Further, we define a way to distinguish neurons according to their behavior, to consider them as formally associated with different abstract concepts, and through the application of nonparametric statistical tests to pairs of neurons, we look for neurons with unique (or almost unique) associated concepts, showing that the entropy value of a neuron is related to the rareness of its concept. Finally, we discuss how the proposed approaches for ranking the neurons can be generalized to different domains and applied to more sophisticated and specialized networks so as to help the research in the growing field of explainable artificial intelligence.
C–H Metalation of Terpyridine Stereoisomers with Ni(II), Pd(II), and Pt(II)
Authors: Payen Leo , Kletsch Lukas , Lapić Tobias , Wickleder Mathias , Klein Axel
Published: April 2023

Ni(II), Pd(II), and Pt(II) complexes [M(Y-terpy)X] (X = Cl or Br) containing the tridentate N^C^N-cyclometalating 2,3′:5′,2″and 2,2′:4′,2″ stereoisomers of the well-known tridentate N^N^N ligand 2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine (terpy) were synthesised in moderate to good yields through C–H activation. For the Pt complexes, the phenyl ethynide derivatives [Pt(Y-terpy)(C≡CPh)] were also obtained under Sonogashira conditions. In contrast to this, C^N^N cyclometalated complexes using the 2,2′:6′,3″- and 2,2′:6′4″-terpy isomers were not obtained. Comparison of the N^C^N complexes of the cyclometalated 2,3′:5′,2″- and 2,2′:4′,2″-terpy ligands with complexes [M(dpb)Cl] of the prototypical N^C^N cyclometalating ligand dpb− (Hdpb = 2,6-diphenyl-pyridine) showed higher potentials for the terpy complexes for the ligand-centred reductions in line with the superior π-accepting properties of the terpy ligands compared with dpb. Metal-centred oxidations were facilitated by the dpb ligand carrying a central σ-donating phenyl group instead of a metalated pyridine moiety. The same trends were found for the long-wavelength absorptions and the derived electrochemical and optical band gaps. The lower σ-donating capacities of the cyclometalated terpy derivatives is also confirmed by a reduced trans influence in the structure of [Ni(2,3′:5′,2″-terpy)Br0.14/OAc0.86]. Attempts to re-crystallise some poorly soluble Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes of this series under solvothermal conditions (HOAc) gave two structures with N-protonated cyclometalated pyridine moieties, [Pt(2,3′:5′,2″-terpyH)Cl].Cl and [Pd(2,3′:5′,2″-terpyH)Cl2].
The Dynamic Distribution of Wolbachia and Rickettsia in AsiaII1 Bemisia tabaci
Authors: Lv Ning , Peng Jing , He Zi-Qi , Wen Qin , Su Zheng-Qin , Ali Shaukat , Liu Chang-Zhong , Qiu Bao-Li
Published: April 2023

Wolbachia and Rickettsia are bacterial endosymbionts that can induce a number of reproductive abnormalities in their arthropod hosts. We screened and established the co-infection of Wolbachia and Rickettsia in Bemisia tabaci and compared the spatial and temporal distribution of Wolbachia and Rickettsia in eggs (3–120 h after spawning), nymphs, and adults of B. tabaci by qPCR quantification and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). The results show that the titer of Wolbachia and Rickettsia in the 3–120 h old eggs showed a “w” patterned fluctuation, while the titers of Wolbachia and Rickettsia had a “descending–ascending descending–ascending” change process. The titers of Rickettsia and Wolbachia nymphal and the adult life stages of Asia II1 B. tabaci generally increased with the development of whiteflies. However, the location of Wolbachia and Rickettsia in the egg changed from egg stalk to egg base, and then from egg base to egg posterior, and finally back to the middle of the egg. These results will provide basic information on the quantity and localization of Wolbachia and Rickettsia within different life stages of B. tabaci. These findings help to understand the dynamics of the vertical transmission of symbiotic bacteria.
Evolution of piggyBac Transposons in Apoidea
Authors: Li Xueyuan , Guan Zhongxia , Wang Feng , Wang Yali , Asare Emmanuel , Shi Shasha , Lin Zheguang , Ji Ting , Gao Bo , Song Chengyi
Published: April 2023

In this study, we investigated the presence of piggyBac (PB) transposons in 44 bee genomes from the Apoidea order, which is a superfamily within the Hymenoptera, which includes a large number of bee species crucial for pollination. We annotated the PB transposons in these 44 bee genomes and examined their evolution profiles, including structural characteristics, distribution, diversity, activity, and abundance. The mined PB transposons were divided into three clades, with uneven distribution in each genus of PB transposons in Apoidea. The complete PB transposons we discovered are around 2.23–3.52 kb in length and encode transposases of approximately 580 aa, with terminal inverted repeats (TIRs) of about 14 bp and 4 bp (TTAA) target-site duplications. Long TIRs (200 bp, 201 bp, and 493 bp) were also detected in some species of bees. The DDD domains of the three transposon types were more conserved, while the other protein domains were less conserved. Generally, most PB transposons showed low abundance in the genomes of Apoidea. Divergent evolution dynamics of PB were observed in the genomes of Apoidea. PB transposons in some identified species were relatively young, whiles others were older and with some either active or inactive. In addition, multiple invasions of PB were also detected in some genomes of Apoidea. Our findings highlight the contribution of PB transposons to genomic variation in these species and suggest their potential as candidates for future gene transfer tools.
One-Year Outcomes of PreserfloTM MicroShunt Implantation versus Trabeculectomy for Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma
Authors: Nobl Matthias , Grün Clara , Kassumeh Stefan , Priglinger Siegfried , Mackert Marc J.
Published: April 2023

This retrospective, single-center study evaluates the safety and efficacy of PreserfloTM MicroShunt (MicroShunt) implantations compared to trabeculectomies (TETs) in patients diagnosed with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG). A total of 31 eyes from 28 patients received a MicroShunt implantation, and 29 eyes from 26 patients received a TET. Surgical success was defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) between 5 mmHg and 17 mmHg at the end of the follow-up period, no need for surgical revisions or secondary glaucoma surgery, and no loss of light perception. In the MicroShunt group, the mean IOP dropped from 20.8 ± 5.9 mmHg at baseline to 12.4 ± 2.8 mmHg (p < 0.0001) after one year. In the TET group, the mean IOP dropped from 22.3 ± 6.5 mmHg to 11.1 ± 3.7 mmHg (p < 0.0001) after 12 months. In both of the groups, the mean number of medications was reduced significantly (MicroShunt from 2.7 ± 1.2 to 0.2 ± 0.7; p < 0.0001 vs. TET from 2.9 ± 1.2 to 0.3 ± 0.9; p < 0.0001). Considering the success rates, 83.9% of the MicroShunt eyes achieved complete success, and 90.3% qualified for success at the end of the follow-up period. In the TET group, the rates were 82.8% and 93.1%, respectively. The postoperative complications were comparable between both groups. In conclusion, the MicroShunt implantation demonstrated non-inferiority regarding its efficacy and safety profile compared to TET in PEXG at a follow-up of one year.
Developments in Post-Resuscitation Care for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests in Adults—A Narrative Review
Authors: Katzenschlager Stephan , Popp Erik , Wnent Jan , Weigand Markus A. , Gräsner Jan-Thorsten
Published: April 2023

This review focuses on current developments in post-resuscitation care for adults with an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). As the incidence of OHCA is high and with a low percentage of survival, it remains a challenge to treat those who survive the initial phase and regain spontaneous circulation. Early titration of oxygen in the out-of-hospital phase is not associated with increased survival and should be avoided. Once the patient is admitted, the oxygen fraction can be reduced. To maintain an adequate blood pressure and urine output, noradrenaline is the preferred agent over adrenaline. A higher blood pressure target is not associated with higher rates of good neurological survival. Early neuro-prognostication remains a challenge, and prognostication bundles should be used. Established bundles could be extended by novel biomarkers and methods in the upcoming years. Whole blood transcriptome analysis has shown to reliably predict neurological survival in two feasibility studies. This needs further investigation in larger cohorts.
How Can We Best Measure Frailty in Cardiosurgical Patients?
Authors: Laux Magdalena L. , Braun Christian , Schröter Filip , Weber Daniela , Moldasheva Aiman , Grune Tilman , Ostovar Roya , Hartrumpf Martin , Albes Johannes Maximilian
Published: April 2023

Background: Frailty is gaining importance in cardiothoracic surgery and is a risk factor for adverse outcomes and mortality. Various frailty scores have since been developed, but there is no consensus which to use for cardiac surgery. Methods: In an all-comer prospective study of patients presenting for cardiac surgery, we assessed frailty and analyzed complication rates in hospital and 1-year mortality, as well as laboratory markers before and after surgery. Results: 246 included patients were analyzed. A total of 16 patients (6.5%) were frail, and 130 patients (52.85%) were pre-frail, summarized in the frail group (FRAIL) and compared to the non-frail patients (NON-FRAIL). The mean age was 66.5 ± 9.05 years, 21.14% female. The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.88% and the 1-year mortality rate was 6.1%. FRAIL patients stayed longer in hospital (FRAIL 15.53 ± 8.5 days vs. NON-FRAIL 13.71 ± 8.94 days, p = 0.004) and in intensive/intermediate care units (ITS/IMC) (FRAIL 5.4 ± 4.33 days vs. NON-FRAIL 4.86 ± 4.78 days, p = 0.014). The 6 min walk (6 MW) (317.92 ± 94.17 m vs. 387.08 ± 93.43 m, p = 0.006), mini mental status (MMS) (25.72 ± 4.36 vs. 27.71 ± 1.9, p = 0.048) and clinical frail scale (3.65 ± 1.32 vs. 2.82 ± 0.86, p = 0.005) scores differed between patients who died within the first year after surgery compared to those who survived this period. In-hospital stay correlated with timed up-and-go (TUG) (TAU: 0.094, p = 0.037), Barthel index (TAU-0.114, p = 0.032), hand grip strength (TAU-0.173, p < 0.001), and EuroSCORE II (TAU 0.119, p = 0.008). ICU/IMC stay duration correlated with TUG (TAU 0.186, p < 0.001), 6 MW (TAU-0.149, p = 0.002), and hand grip strength (TAU-0.22, p < 0.001). FRAIL patients had post-operatively altered levels of plasma-redox-biomarkers and fat-soluble micronutrients. Conclusions: frailty parameters with the highest predictive value as well as ease of use could be added to the EuroSCORE.
Factors Influencing Disabled Stroke Survivors’ Quality of Life in Rural China: Based on the Structural Characteristics and Psychometric Properties of the SF-36 Assessment
Authors: Xu Qi , Zheng Dingzhao , Chen Shanjia , He Yiqi , Lin Zhenguo , Yao Dong , Wang Jiamei , Zhao Jiapei , Wu Longqiang , Liao Qiuju , Zhang Yun , Yan Tiebin
Published: April 2023

Many stroke survivors’ quality of life is impaired. Few studies of factors influencing their quality of life have been based on the factors tested by the short form 36 instrument. This study did so with 308 physically disabled stroke survivors in rural China. Principal components analysis was applied to refine the dimension structure of the short form 36 assessment, followed by backward multiple linear regression analysis to determine the independent factors influencing quality of life. The structure revealed differed from the generic structure in showing that the mental health and vitality dimensions are not unidimensional. Subjects who reported access to the outdoors as convenient demonstrated better quality of life in all dimensions. Those who exercised regularly achieved better social functioning and negative mental health scores. Other factors influencing a better quality of life in terms of physical functioning were younger age and not being married. Being older and better educated predicted better role-emotion scores. Being female correlated with better social functioning scores, while men scored better on bodily pain. Being less educated predicted higher negative mental health, while being less disabled predicted better physical and social functioning. The results suggest that the SF-36’s dimension structure should be re-evaluated before using it to assess stroke survivors.
Syringomyelia Associated with Chiari 1 Malformation in Adults: Positive Outcome Predictors after Posterior Fossa Decompression with Duraplasty
Authors: Ciaramitaro Palma , Migliaretti Giuseppe , Ferraris Marilena , Garnero Andrea , Morana Giovanni , Carucci Paolo , Stura Ilaria , Massaro Fulvio , Garbossa Diego
Published: April 2023

Background: Syringomyelia (Syr) in patients with Chiari 1 malformation (CM1) may be attributable to abnormal dynamics of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the upper cervical segment; fourth ventricle enlargement has been reported in association with a worse clinical and radiological presentation, independently of the posterior fossa volume. In this study, we analyzed presurgery hydrodynamic markers to evaluate if their changes could be associated with clinical and radiological improvement after posterior fossa decompression and duraplasty (PFDD). As a primary endpoint, we aimed to correlate improvement in the fourth ventricle area with positive clinical outcomes. Methods: In total, in this study, we enrolled 36 consecutive adults with Syr and CM1 who were followed by a multidisciplinary team. All the patients were prospectively evaluated with clinical scales and neuroimaging, including CSF flow, the fourth ventricle area, and the Vaquero Index by using a phase-contrast MRI before (T0) and after surgical treatment (T1-Tlast, with a range of 12–108 months). The CSF flow at the craniocervical junction (CCJ), the fourth ventricle area, and the Vaquero Index changes were statistically analyzed and compared to the clinical and quality of life improvement after surgery. The good outcome prediction ability of presurgical radiological variables was tested. Results: Surgery was associated with positive clinical and radiological outcomes in more than 90% of cases. The fourth ventricle area significantly reduced after surgery (T0-Tlast, p = 0.0093), but no significant associations with clinical improvement were found. The presurgical presence of CSF flow at the CCJ was able to predict a good outcome (AUC = 0.68, 95% CI 0.50–0.87 and LH+ = 2.1, IC 95% 1.16–3.07) and was also significantly associated with post-surgical pain relief (rho = 0.61 and p = 0.0144). Conclusions: Presurgery CSF flow at the CCJ is proposed as a radiological marker with the ability to predict a positive outcome after PFDD in adults with syringomyelia and CM1. Measurements of the fourth ventricle area could be useful additional information for evaluating surgical long-term follow-up; further experience on larger cohorts is required to better define the prognostic yield of this radiological parameter.
Optimal Heart Rate May Improve Systolic and Diastolic Function in Patients with Fontan Circulation
Authors: Hirono Keiichi , Imamura Teruhiko , Tsuboi Kaori , Takarada Shinya , Okabe Mako , Nakaoka Hideyuki , Ibuki Keijiro , Ozawa Sayaka
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: The optimal heart rate, at which the E-wave and A-wave stand adjacent without any overlaps in the Doppler transmitral flow echocardiography, is associated with maximum cardiac output and favorable clinical outcomes in adult patients with systolic heart failure. However, the clinical implication of the echocardiographic overlap length in patients with Fontan circulation remains unknown. We investigated the relationship between heart rate (HR) and hemodynamics in Fontan surgery patients with and without beta-blockers. (2) Methods and Results: A total of 26 patients (median age 1.8 years, 13 males) were enrolled. At baseline, the plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide was 2439 ± 3483 pg/mL, the fraction area change was 33.5 ± 11.4%, the cardiac index was 3.55 ± 0.90 L/min/m2, and the overlap length was 45.2 ± 59.0 msec. Overlap length was importantly decreased after the one-year follow-up (7.60 ± 78.57 msec, p = 0.0069). Positive correlations were noted between the overlap length and A-wave and E/A ratio (p = 0.0021 and p = 0.0046, respectively). Ventricular end-diastolic pressure was significantly correlated with the overlap length in non-beta-blocker patients (p = 0.0483). (3) Conclusion: Overlap length may reflect the status of ventricular dysfunction. Hemodynamic preservation at lower HR could be critical for cardiac reverse remodeling.
Identification of Distinct Clinical Phenotypes of Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: Results from a Cohort Observational Study
Authors: Cidade José Pedro , de Souza Dantas Vicente Cés , de Figueiredo Thompson Alessandra , de Miranda Renata Carnevale Carneiro Chermont , Mamfrim Rafaela , Caroli Henrique , Escudini Gabriela , Oliveira Natalia , Castro Taiza , Póvoa Pedro
Published: April 2023

Purpose: COVID-19 presents complex pathophysiology, and evidence collected points towards an intricate interaction between viral-dependent and individual immunological mechanisms. Identifying phenotypes through clinical and biological markers may provide a better understanding of the subjacent mechanisms and an early patient-tailored characterization of illness severity. Methods: A multicenter prospective cohort study was performed in 5 hospitals in Portugal and Brazil for one year between 2020–2021. All adult patients with an Intensive Care Unit admission with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia were eligible. COVID-19 was diagnosed using clinical and radiologic criteria with a SARS-CoV-2 positive RT-PCR test. A two-step hierarchical cluster analysis was made using several class-defining variables. Results: 814 patients were included. The cluster analysis revealed a three-class model, allowing for the definition of three distinct COVID-19 phenotypes: 407 patients in phenotype A, 244 patients in phenotype B, and 163 patients in phenotype C. Patients included in phenotype A were significantly older, with higher baseline inflammatory biomarkers profile, and a significantly higher requirement of organ support and mortality rate. Phenotypes B and C demonstrated some overlapping clinical characteristics but different outcomes. Phenotype C patients presented a lower mortality rate, with consistently lower C-reactive protein, but higher procalcitonin and interleukin-6 serum levels, describing an immunological profile significantly different from phenotype B. Conclusions: Severe COVID-19 patients exhibit three different clinical phenotypes with distinct profiles and outcomes. Their identification could have an impact on patients’ care, justifying different therapy responses and inconsistencies identified across different randomized control trial results.
Effect of Mechanical Microenvironment on Collagen Self-Assembly In Vitro
Authors: Han Leihan , Lin Jiexiang , Du Chengfei , Zhang Chunqiu , Wang Xin , Feng Qijin
Published: April 2023

Collagen, as a structural protein, is widely distributed in the human body. Many factors influence collagen self-assembly in vitro, including physical-chemical conditions and mechanical microenvironment, and play a key role in driving the structure and arrangement. However, the exact mechanism is unknown. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the changes in the structure and morphology of collagen self-assembly in vitro under mechanical microenvironment, as well as the critical role of hyaluronic acid in this process. Using bovine type I collagen as the research object, collagen solution is loaded into tensile and stress-strain gradient devices. The morphology and distribution of collagen is observed using an atomic force microscope while changing the concentration of collagen solution, mechanical loading strength, tensile speed, and ratio of collagen to hyaluronic acid. The results demonstrate that the mechanics field governs collagen fibers and changes their orientation. Stress magnifies the differences in results caused by different stress concentrations and sizes, and hyaluronic acid improves collagen fiber orientation. This research is critical for expanding the use of collagen-based biomaterials in tissue engineering.