bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis de variables morfo-anatómicas en Tephrocactus (Cactaceae), su correlación con niveles de ploidía y mapeos en su filogenia
Authors: Di Dio Ivana , Stiefkens Laura B. , Las Peñas Laura M.
Published: February 2022

Introducción y objetivos: Tephrocactus es un género de Cactaceae perteneciente a la subfamilia Opuntioideae, con la mayoría de las especies endémicas de Argentina. Comprende matas con ramas laxas, formadas por artejos globosos, que muchas veces se desprenden fácilmente y generan nuevas plantas. La reproducción clonal está asociada a la ocurrencia de altos niveles de ploidía en el género. El objetivo de este trabajo fue comparar caracteres morfo-anatómicos de la epidermis y tejidos subyacentes de taxones de Tephrocactus con distintos niveles de ploidía (2n = 22, 44, 77, 88, 242 y 319) y evaluar dichos caracteres en un contexto filogenético.
M&M: Se estudiaron la epidermis y tejidos subyacentes de taxones de Tephrocactus mediante el uso de técnicas histológicas clásicas. Se compararon estadísticamente las variables morfo-anatómicas y se mapearon en la filogenia del género.
Resultados: Se determinaron la frecuencia estomática, la frecuencia de células epidérmicas propiamente dichas, el índice estomático, la longitud de los estomas y se analizaron los tejidos subyacentes con especial referencia a la forma, frecuencia y disposición de drusas. Todas las variables estudiadas mostraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los taxones. Se observó una relación positiva entre niveles de ploidía y tamaño de todos los tipos de células epidérmicas y de las drusas.
Conclusiones: El ancestro común del grupo tendría estomas pequeños, una frecuencia de células epidérmicas propiamente dichas intermedia y drusas en su hipodermis. Las características de la epidermis y tejidos subyacentes se correlacionan con el nivel de ploidía en los taxones de Tephrocactus estudiados.
Low serum triiodothyronine and potassium levels are associated with increased risk of eclampsia among women in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
Authors: Businge Charles Bitamazire , Longo-Mbenza Benjamin , Pascal Kengne Andre
Published: February 2022

Background: There is paucity of data on the relationship between thyroid hormones, potassium and eclampsia. Moderate-to-severe iodine deficiency that worsens during pregnancy leads to decreased thyroid hormone output and bioavailability to the brain. Apart from metabolic functions, T3 and T4 are essential fast acting cytosolic and synaptosomal neural transmitters that also regulate neuronal excitatory-inhibitory mechanisms. T3 also regulates the Na + -K + -ATPase pump that maintains the membrane ionic gradient. Hence altered serum potassium, thyroxine and triiodothyronine levels could increase the risk of eclamptic seizures. Methods: Forty-five women with eclampsia, 45 severe preeclampsia and 90 normotensive pregnant controls were enrolled into this study. Levels of thyroid hormones, thyroglobulin and urine iodine concentration (UIC) were measured and compared between the three groups. Results: Eclamptic participants had significantly lower median serum potassium (K), triiodothyronine (FT3), urinary iodine concentration (UIC) but higher serum thyroglobulin (Tg) (K = 3.7 mmol/L; FT3 = 3.8 pmol/L; UIC = 69.5 μg/L; Tg = 39.0 μg/L) than normotensive pregnant controls (K = 4.3 mmol/L; T3 = 4.7 pmol/L; UIC = 169.5 μg/L; Tg = 19.5 μg/L) and participants with severe preeclampsia (K = 4.2 mmol/L; T3 = 4.4 pmol/L; UIC = 95.7 μg/L; Tg = 22.4 μg/L), p < 0.05. Low UIC, low serum T3 and potassium and elevated Tg were independent predictors of eclampsia. Conclusions: Women with iodine deficiency in pregnancy may be at increased risk of eclampsia secondary to the ensuing rapid peripheral turnover of thyroid hormones leading to hypothyroxinaemia and reduced triiodothyronine bioavailability to the central nervous system that can be exacerbated by hypokalaemia.
Vanishing twin after 12 gestational weeks is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in in vitro fertilization cycles
Authors: Liu Jun , Liu Chun-Lin , Luo Qinhong , Wu Zhufeng , Li Fengxiang , Chen Dongyi , Li Chaoyan , Sun Ling
Published: February 2022

Background: To assess the associations between vanishing gestational age and the adverse perinatal outcomes following in vitro fertilization cycles. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study conducted in Guangzhou Women and children hospital from January 2011 to January 2019. We identified 350 vanishing twin pregnancies including 54 secondary fetal deaths and 296 singleton deliveries compared to 2080 infants from single gestations. The children detected by transvaginal ultrasonography in gestational week 6. By linking with the hospital’s registries, the main endpoints were gestational age (weeks), birth weight (g), low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth and neonatal malformation rate. Perinatal outcomes were compared among study groups and controls. Results: Of the 350 vanishing twin, there were 15.4% (54) secondary fetal death. Of the 2376 singleton deliveries, 12.5% (296) originated from a twin gestation. In the assessment of perinatal outcome, there were no significant differences between the singleton cohort and vanishing twin before the presence of fetal cardiac activity cohort (VT before CA) and early vanishing cohort. The late vanishing twin group had a higher risk of preterm delivery (P < 0.001) and LBW (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences between all cohorts in assessing neonatal malformation rate (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Vanishing twin after 12 weeks is a predictor of adverse perinatal outcome. The couples with a viable fetus or a non-viable fetus and an empty gestational sac in early pregnancy (<12 weeks) have a similar outcome as the baby from a singleton delivery without vanishing.
Predicting factors of clomiphene citrate responsiveness in infertile women with normogonadotropic anovulation (WHO group II anovulation)
Authors: Areetheerapas Theeraporn , Singwongsa Artitaya , Suwannarurk Komsun , Pattaraarchachai Junya
Published: February 2022

Background: Clomiphene responsiveness has been varied in WHO group II anovulatory patients. Our study evaluates factors associated with clomiphene citrate responsiveness in this population. Various parameters were studied, including anthropometric, hormonal and transvaginal ultrasonographic measurements. Methods: A retrospective case-control study was done over a period of three years. A total of 260 women with WHO group II anovulatory related infertility treated with clomiphene citrate 100 mg/d for five consecutive days were enrolled. 173 women were categorized in clomiphene citrate resonsive group (CCR), defined as patients with at least one dominant follicle ≥17 mm or at least 2 dominant follicles ≥15 mm. 87 women were categorized in the non-ovulatory group (NCCR), defined as patients who not meet the responsive group criteria. Various clinical, metabolic, hormonal and ultrasound features were compared between two groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the significant factors. Results: Among all participants, the mean age was 32.6 ± 4.0 years. The mean body mass index in CCR and NCCR group was 23.9 ± 10.7 kg/m2 and 24.0 ± 4.0 kg/m2, respectively. The mean waist-hip ratio (WHR) of the NCCR group was higher than that of the CCR group, i.e., 0.83 ± 0.06 vs 0.81 ± 0.05 (p = 0.004). The waist-hip ratio was the most sensitive anthropometric predictor of non-responsiveness to clomiphene: cut-off value of 0.775 (90.8% sensitivity and 20.2% specificity) and cut-off value of 0.805 (73.6% sensitivity and 42.2% specificity). Age, clinical hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovarian morphology, low antral follicle count (≤5 follicles), baseline follicle-stimulating hormones and estradiol levels were not significantly different. Conclusions: The waist-hip ratio is a clinically useful parameter in predicting clomiphene responsiveness in normogonadotropic anovulatory women (WHO group II anovulation).
Safety and efficacy of knotless barbed suture in cesarean section using postpartum ultrasound: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hong Ju Yeon , Kim Ho Yeon , Cho Geum Joon , Ahn Ki-Hoon , Hong Soon-Cheol , Oh Min-Jeong , Kim Hai-Joong , Baek Hey-Sung
Published: February 2022

Background: While speed, safety, and efficacy are necessary in the operation of cesarean section (CS), a number of new devices have been introduced to support the technique. This retrospective study was conducted to assess the usability and safety of knotless barbed suture, compared to conventional method, for closure of uterine myometrium during cesarean section. Methods: Patients who underwent cesarean delivery at Korea University Ansan Hospital between August 2018 and December 2019 were reviewed. Surgical outcomes including uterine closure time, operating time, estimated blood loss, and sonographic results of residual myometrial thickness at the site of incision at 6 to 8 weeks after operation were analyzed. Results: Out of total 78 women, 44 patients had knotless barbed suture and 34 patients underwent conventional suture. Compared to conventional method, the uterine closure time was significantly reduced (p = 0.012). Operative time, estimated blood loss during operation, hemoglobin difference on the third operative day, and the number of cases with transfusion, postpartum infection, and bleeding demonstrated no significant differences between the two groups. At 6 to 8 weeks after operation, transvaginal ultrasound revealed no differences in residual myometrial scar thickness. Conclusion: Knotless barbed suture resulted in significantly shorter uterine closure time and no increased rate of perioperative complications. Our work supports that knotless barbed suture can be effectively used for cesarean section.
Prediction of intrauterine inflammation in patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes at 28 to 34 weeks of gestation
Authors: Wang Yunxia , Xu Yanyun , Wang Shan , Wang Xiaoli , Gu Yongzhong , Zhang Ye
Published: February 2022

Background: To analyze the influence of white blood cells (WBC), serum C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and other risk factors on the prognosis of patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) from 28 to 34 weeks of gestation. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of 425 patients with PPROM from 28 to 34 weeks of gestation who delivered infants at Shandong Provincial Hospitals between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2019. Risk factors for puerperal infection were analyzed using a logistic regression model. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed, and the area under the curve (AUC) was estimated. Results: Of the 425 patients (mean ± SD age, 34.69 ± 5.55 years), 104 (24.47%) had chorioamnionitis. The CRP level (odds ratio [OR], 1.009; 95% Confidence Interval (CI), 1.003–1.014; P = 0.002), WBC count (OR, 1.170; 95% CI, 1.092–1.254; P < 0.001) and gestational age (OR, 0.772; 95% CI, 0.648–0.921; P = 0.004) were risk factors of chorioamnionitis. Patients who did not undergo previous cesarean section had twice the risk of developing chorionic inflammation (P = 0.022). The cut-off value of CRP level for prediction of chorioamnionitis was 19.69 mg/L with a sensitivity of 65.4%, a specificity of 75.7%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 46.58%, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 90.24%. The cut-off value of WBC count was 12.99 × 109/L with a sensitivity of 62.4%, a specificity of 65.8%, a PPV of 36.65%, and an NPV of 84.61%. The cut-off value of PCT level was 0.054 ng/mL with a sensitivity of 81.0%, a specificity of 75.7%, a PPV of 32.08%, and an NPV of 90.67%. The AUC for CRP was 0.731. Conclusions: Study results suggested that CRP level (<19.69 mg/L), WBC count (<12.99 × 109/L) and PCT level (<0.054 ng/mL) had good NPVs for chorioamnionitis, whereas their PPVs were low. The CRP level was found to have the most accurate prediction of chorioamnionitis among patients with PPROM from 28 to 34 weeks of gestation.
Rare extragenital endometriosis: pathogenesis and therapy
Authors: Fedele Francesco , Di Fatta Simona , Busnelli Andrea , Bulfoni Alessandro , Salvatore Stefano , Candiani Massimo
Published: February 2022

Background: In the context of extragenital endometriosis, the gastrointestinal, urinary tract, abdominal wall, and thorax localizations are considered relatively frequent, while the umbilical, inguinal, sciatic nerve, liver, and pancreas are instead “rare”. Methods: Online searches were carried out in PubMed database of the last 20 years for these terms: extragenital endometriosis, umbilical endometriosis, inguinal endometriosis, sciatic nerve endometriosis, hepatic and pancreatic endometriosis. The following exclusion criteria were used: (1) Personal surgical history unspecified. (2) Nonspecific histological diagnosis for each type of endometriosis examined. (3) Inability to distinguish between the personal series of the author and the case reports described. (4) Proceedings of scientific meetings were not included. Tables that are easy to consult were compiled. Results: 810 titles were found among which 162 studies were selected for reading in full text and finally 114 papers were included, which met the objective of the revision. The so-called “rare” forms of extragenital endometriosis show an unsuspected frequency, an extreme variability of presentation, and uncertain treatment guidelines. Discussion: Gynecologists, general surgeons, and neurologists should be well acquainted with these pathologies to avoid confusing diagnostic paths and to set up adequate therapies.
Enhanced recovery after gynecologic surgery: review of the literature
Authors: Ibanoglu Mujde Can , Kinay Tugba , Engin-Ustun Yaprak
Published: February 2022

Objective: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) includes practices aimed at providing rapid recovery by standardizing pre-and post-surgical care in patients undergoing colon surgery and reducing the metabolic stress response. The ERAS program is a systematic application that includes surgeons, anesthetists, nurses, and assistant healthcare professionals in the care process and has been successfully implemented in the international arena. Studies on ERAS protocols show that this system can be actively applied in different surgical areas. Mechanism: This review article discusses the main reviews and recommendations of the medical community on ERAS and valuable publications in the literature. Findings in brief: Guidelines of the ERAS Society for peri-operative care in gynecological procedures were first published in 2016 and updated in 2019. ERAS Society recommended 12 items for pre-and intra-operative care and 10 post-operative care items. The objectives of these applications are to provide patient education and consultancy services before surgery, to stop oral intake shortly before surgery and to start fast nutrition after surgery, to maintain a balanced body temperature and fluid level to maintain normal physiology, to increase mobilization, to provide pain control with painkillers, prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting and reduction of unnecessary or prolonged use of catheters. Conclusions: Studies suggest that increased compliance with ERAS agents in colon surgery has a positive effect on operation results, but more studies are needed to reach this affirmation in gynecological surgery.
Identification and characteristics of drug resistance and genotypes of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from intensive care units at obstetrics & gynaecology departments: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Huo Zhonghua , Li Binxian , Meng Xue , Li Peiyao , Li Mingcheng
Published: February 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of SCCmec genotypes and drug resistance of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from intensive care units (ICU) at obstetrics & gynaecology departments in a tertiary hospital. Methods: MRSA obtained from patients admitted to the ICU were isolated and identified by using the Vitek 2 Compact System with GP21 342 cards. Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles and MRSA screening were determined by using the broth microdilution method according to CLSI guidelines. Determination of resistant genes and SCCmec genotypes were performed by multiplex PCR. Results: Of the 283 patients evaluated, 120 (42.4%) isolates were phenotypically and genotypically confirmed to be MRSA. Among 120 strains, 15 (12.5%) strains were SCCmec type II, 96 (80%) strains were SCCmec type III and 9 (7.5%) strains were undifferentiated type. All MRSA strains were recognized as multidrug resistant, exhibiting 100% resistance to cefoxitin and oxacillin, followed by erythromycin and levofloxacin (more than 80% and 90% respectively). Different SCCmec genotypes in MRAS isolates showed distinct antimicrobial agent patterns. SCCmec type II was highly resistant to clindamycin (93.3%) with lower resistance to tetracycline (26.7%) with SCCmec type III being highly resistant to gentamicin (91.7%). Undifferentiated strains were resistant to Cotrimoxazole (77.8%). There was a statistical difference among type II, type III and Undifferentiated strains (P < 0.05). Of interest, a high prevalence of resistance to rifampicin (more than 75%) was also noted in the hospital. With different SCCmec genotypes, MRSA isolates were sensitive to minocycline, quinupristin, teicoplanin, vancomycin and nitrofurantoin. Conclusions: Our data indicate that SCCmec type II and SCCmec type III of MRSA are circulating in the ICU and constitute a major source for the infection spread. It is necessary to increase surveillance of MRSA in the ICU and develop adequate infection prevention strategies.
Endometrial receptivity and PCOS; endometrial gene expression specificities — literature review
Authors: Alebić Miro Šimun
Published: February 2022

Objectives: The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of existing studies on the specificities of gene expression in the endometrium in PCOS and possible molecular mechanisms linking those specificities with reproductive and obstetric consequences of PCOS. Mechanism: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder combining features of reproductive, metabolic, and psychological disturbances. The effect of metabolic, inflammatory, and endocrine abnormalities on ovulatory function and oocyte quality has been seen as the main reproductive issue in PCOS women. However, even after the restoration of ovulation, this group exhibits lower than expected reproductive outcomes. Functionally relevant sequence alterations in genes involved in regulating endometrial receptivity could also be relevant in PCOS as a property independent of extra-endometrial influences. Findings: Hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and insulin resistance are associated with the alterations in endometrial gene expressions leading to suboptimal endometrial receptivity in PCOS. Endometrial steroid receptor malfunction seems to be a contibuting factor to the intrinsic suboptimal endometrial receptivity in PCOS. Conclusion: epigenetic or epigenomics mechanisms altering gene expressions on the endometrial level in PCOS should not be ruled out. Future studies should focus on investigating specificities of each PCOS phenotype and developing individual treatment strategies to meet the specific needs of every PCOS patient.
The effect of intraoperative antiemetics on postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients receiving intrathecal morphine for elective caesarean deliveries
Authors: Kanczuk Marcelo Epsztein , Lightfoot Nicholas J , Ohashi Yayoi , Chong Jian Yang , Mace Hamish S , Hoppe David W , O’Loughlin Edmond J
Published: February 2022

Background: The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) when intrathecal morphine (ITM) is used for caesarean delivery (CD) is up to 80% without antiemetic prophylaxis. Prophylactic antiemetics can reduce this rate by 50%, except for dexamethasone that did not show to be effective in this context. Combinations showed divergent results. We investigated the incidence of PONV when different combinations of antiemetics were used for CD in parturients receiving ITM. Methods: Retrospective, single centre cohort study of patients undergoing elective CD with ITM between January 2016 and October 2017. The primary outcome was the incidence of PONV requiring treatment in the first 24 hours following CD. Interactions were sought using multivariate modelling for predictors of PONV following surgery. Results: Overall, 598 women were included in the study. The rate of PONV requiring treatment was 29.1%. The rate of PONV decreased with increasing numbers of prophylactic medications (p < 0.001). Women who did not experience PONV received a greater number of antiemetics in the operating room (p < 0.001). There was a dose response relationship between ITM dose and PONV rate (p < 0.001). Dexamethasone, either alone or in combination with other agents was not protective against PONV when compared with other drug combinations (p = 0.08). Conclusions: We have demonstrated an inverse relationship between the number of prophylactic antiemetics given and the rates of PONV after caesarean delivery in the context of intrathecal morphine use. Dexamethasone use, either alone or in conjunction with other drugs did not offer advantages over other combinations where dexamethasone was avoided.
Health-Related Quality of Life in perimenopausal women with PCOS
Authors: Forslund Maria , Landin-Wilhelmsen Kerstin , Krantz Emily , Trimpou Penelope , Schmidt Johanna , Brännström Mats , Dahlgren Eva
Published: February 2022

Background: Several studies have shown that younger women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have decreased Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) compared with women in general. Method: In this study peri- and postmenopausal women previously diagnosed with PCOS (n = 27) were compared with randomly selected, age-matched controls (n = 94). Mean age of the study participants was 52 years. Structured interviews and Short Form (SF)-36 questionnaires were used. Results: No differences in SF-36 scores were found, median for the physical summary score was 54 vs. 57, for women with PCOS and controls, respectively; and 53 vs. 53 for the mental summary score, with no differences in any of the eight dimensions of HRQoL. There were no significant difference in prevalence of depression and/or anxiety. The use of drugs for mood disorders was 22% in both groups. Conclusion: PCOS women of peri- and postmenopausal ages had similar HRQoL compared with age-matched controls.
Effect of salicylic acid on phenolic compounds, antioxidant and antihyperglycemic activity of Lamiaceae plants grown in a temperate climate
Authors: Skrypnik Liubov , Golovin Anton , Savina Tamara
Published: February 2022

Background: The Lamiaceae family, one of the most important herbaceous and shrub plant families, includes a wide variety of plants with biological and medicinal uses. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of phenolic compounds content and biological activity of extracts from eight species of Lamiaceae plants, cultivated in a temperate climate, and to study the effect of the foliar salicylic acid application on these parameters. Methods: Lamiaceae plants (Lavandula angustifolia, Salvia officinalis, Hyssopus officinalis, Agastache foeniculum, Thymus serpyllum, Mentha × piperita, Origanum vulgare, Monarda didyma) cultivated on field experimental sites. Plants were sprayed with salicylic acid at a concentration of 1 mM. The untreated with salicylic acid plants were used as control. Results: The highest contents of hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids in control plants were observed in the Agastache foeniculum (6.4 ± 0.6 mg g-1 and 6.5 ± 0.4 mg g-1 respectively). The highest content of phenolic compounds was found in Monarda didyma (13.8 ± 0.7 mg g-1). Among the control plants, Agastache foeniculum, Hyssopus officinalis, and Mentha × piperita were characterized by the highest antioxidant activity. All the studied extracts had the ability to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Significant positive correlations were revealed between the antioxidant activity and the contents of hydroxycinnamic acids, total phenolic compounds, and flavonoids. A high degree of correlation was found between the α-amylase inhibitory activity and the content of hydroxycinnamic acids (r = 0.72, p ≤ 0.05), as well as between the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and the content of flavonoids (r = 0.83, p ≤ 0.05) and hydroxycinnamic acids (r = 0.81, p ≤ 0.05). The foliar treatment with salicylic acid led to an increase in the contents of hydroxycinnamic acids (in 6 species), flavonoids (in 2 species), total phenolic compounds (in 7 species), antioxidant activity (in 5 species), as well as in α-amylase (in 4 species) and α-glucosidase (in 5 species) inhibitory activity compared to the control plants. Lavandula angustifolia was the most susceptible to foliar treatment with salicylic acid. In this plant species, a significant increase in all studied biochemical parameters was noted. Conclusions: The results obtained on the stimulating effects of salicylic acid can be used to increase the nutritional and pharmacological value of plants of the Lamiaceae family cultivated in temperate climates.
Applicability of water from the Bay of Gdańsk as a growth medium for mixotrophic culture of Platymonas subcordiformis
Authors: Dudek Magda , Dębowski Marcin , Nowicka Anna , Kazimierowicz Joanna , Zieliński Marcin
Published: February 2022

P. subcordiformis is a potentially promising species with commercial, environmental and technological viability for industrial applications. The great potential of these microalgae lies in their fast biomass growth, pollution resistance, and compatibility with different culture media. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of P. subcordiformis biomass production in a medium prepared with water from the Bay of Gdańsk. The tested medium supported high biomass growth rates which reached 317.58 ± 42.31 mgV⁢S/dm3⋅d in the best-performing variant, with a final concentration of 3493.3 ± 465.4 mgV⁢S/dm3⋅d. In the autotrophic culture, nitrogen and phosphorus removal exceeded 98%. Amending the mixotrophic culture with glucose did not affect P. subcordiformis concentrations. However, it did significantly limit the demand for nutrients in the biomass and reduced chlorophyll a production in the cells.
In vitro study of L-asparaginase enzyme activity by two yeast strains on food matrixes and the relative effect on fungal pathogens growth
Authors: Francesco Alessandra Di
Published: February 2022

Asparagine is one of the precursors of acrylamide and toxic fungal secondary metabolites, both carcinogenic compounds. In the present study, the optimal conditions to deplete asparagine by Aureobasidium pullulans (L1 and L8) from potato and wheat flour matrices were investigated. Through a colorimetric plate-assay with phenol red as indicator dye, both strains demonstrated to be able to produce L-asparaginase from 20 ∘C to 30 ∘C for L1 and only at 20 ∘C for L8 strain starting from 48 h of incubation. The ability of both yeasts to reduce asparagine content in potato and wheat flour was studied by in vitro spectrophotometric assay. Both strains showed a great ability to totally reduce asparagine at 20 ∘C after 15 min of incubation in potato homogenate, conversely in wheat flour, the highest reduction was detected after a longer exposition time (60 min). As known, L1 and L8 diamine asparaginase to aspartic acid. For this reason, both amino acids were tested to verify the antifungal effect against Rhizoctonia solani (Rs1) and Fusarium graminearum (F3) mycelial growth. Asparagine (120 mg/L) increased Rs1 and F3 mycelial growth respectively by 4.4% and 18.9%; conversely, aspartic acid significantly inhibited both respectively by 8.2% and 12.0%.
Comparison of clinical performance and subjective outcomes between two diffractive trifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) and one monofocal IOL in bilateral cataract surgery
Authors: Imburgia Aurelio , Gaudenzi Francesco , Mularoni Kira , Mussoni Gloria , Mularoni Alessandro
Published: February 2022

Background: To compare clinical outcomes and subjective experience after bilateral implantation of two diffractive trifocal and one monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). Methods: Fourty-eight patients received bilateral implantation of the RayOne Trifocal IOL (Rayner), the AcrySof IQ PanOptix IOL (Alcon), or the AcrySof IQ SN60WF IOL (Alcon). At 1-month, 3-month, and 12-month follow-up visits, the tested outcomes were monocular and binocular uncorrected and corrected distance, intermediate at 70 cm, and near at 30 cm visual acuities, subjective refractive outcomes, defocus curves, contrast sensitivity and ocular aberrometry. Subjective patient satisfaction in terms of visual disturbance and spectacle independence was also evaluated. Results: Each group comprised 32 eyes (16 patients). Refractive outcomes of RayOne and PanOptix IOLs were comparable. Both trifocal IOLs demonstrated superior visual acuity to the AcrySof monofocal IOL at near and intermediate ranges and along the defocus curves at all points other than at 0.0 D. The patient satisfaction results were comparable between the RayOne and PanOptix trifocal IOL groups. Conclusions: Both trifocals performed similarly providing good visual outcomes at all distances, demonstrating superior visual acuity compared to the monofocal IOL. Patients implanted with these trifocal IOLs reported similar levels of quality of vision and satisfaction. The RayOne trifocal and PanOptix IOLs are a valuable alternative for patients wishing to seek spectacle independence and low visual disturbances when undergoing cataract surgery.
Quantitative analysis of ecological suitability and stability of meandering rivers
Authors: Yu Zicheng , Zhang Jing , Wang Hongtao , Zhao Jinyong , Dong Zheren , Peng Wenqi , Zhao Xianfu
Published: February 2022

Background: As the most widely distributed river form in the world, meandering river is of great significance for stabilizing the physical structure of the river and maintaining ecosystem. To quantitatively study the positive effects of meandering rivers, the Chishui River, a natural tributary of the Yangtze River in Southwest China, is selected as the research area, and two typical river sections with different meandering degrees are selected as the research objects. Methods: Based on the field survey data, the local endemic fish Procypris rabaudi (Tchang) is considered the object fish, and a hydrodynamic model was used to simulate the distribution of water depth and flow velocity in certain river reaches at different flows. By introducing the weighted usable area (WUA) and hydraulic unit diversity index, combined with the suitability curves of the study species, the hydraulic characteristics and habitat suitability changes of two river reaches under different flows are summarized and analyzed, and the hydrogeomorphological process of the studied river section is generalized. Results: With the change in discharge, a positive correlation is observed between the maximum velocity and depth of the meandering river and the discharge, whereas the WUA and hydraulic unit index of the meandering river have relatively small changes. Under low discharge, the distribution of pool–riffle sequences can be seen in the meandering reach, which is essential to improve the ecological suitability and stability of the river. Conclusions: This study provides scientific sustentation for river restoration and fish conservation.
Tiliacora triandra attenuates cisplatin triggered hepatorenal and testicular toxicity in rats by modulating oxidative inflammation, apoptosis and endocrine deficit
Authors: Zhang Xiaomin , Peng Xiaozhuang , Wang Chen , Olatunji Opeyemi Joshua , Famurewa Ademola
Published: February 2022

Purpose: Cisplatin (CIS) is a platinum based anticancer drug that has demonstrated significant efficacy against various types of cancers. Unfortunately, this drug is also famous for its severe side effects on delicate organs. Herein this study examined the hepatorenal and testicular protective effects of TiTE against CIS-induced hepatorenal and testicular insults. Methods: Rats were administered with TiTE (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) for 4 weeks, while a single dose of CIS (2.5 mg/kg body weight) was injected once per week from week 2 to week 4. Results: Treatment with TITE significantly attenuated CIS-induced increases in serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Furthermore, TiTE treatment also decreased oxidative stress (MDA) inflammations (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-κB) and apoptosis (caspase-3 activity) and restored hepatorenal and testicular antioxidant defense (SOD, CAT and GPx) in CIS treated rats. Additionally, the TiTE improved sperm count, motility and viability, and ameliorated the reduced serum levels of testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in CIS-injected rats. TiTE also curtailed hepatorenal and testicular histological changes in CIS treated rats. Conclusion: The findings from the study indicated that TiTE displayed hepatorenal and testicular protective effects via inhibition of oxidative stress-mediated inflammation and endocrine imbalance in rats.
Effect οf elicitοrs οn cell suspensiοn culture οf Urginea maritima L. tοwards prοductiοn οf prοscillaridin A
Authors: Shahin Heba , El-Hela Atef A. , Nasr Mahmοud I. , Nasr Ghada M.
Published: February 2022

Background: Urginea maritima (L.f.) Baker (Hyacinthaceae) is a perennial bulbous medicinal plant that is currently at risk of extinction. Squill (white sea onion) is an analogous cardiotonic to digitalis. The purpose of the current work was to assess the optimal growth conditions for Urginea cells to synthesize the cardiac glycoside proscillaridin A by involving illumination, carbon source, methyl jasmonate (MJ), and culture system. Results: When cells were cultured for 28 days at 21 ± 2 ∘C in the dark on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media containing 1 mg/L 2, 4-D and 0.5 mg/L Kin and 30 g/L sucrose, the cell proliferation, and proscillaridin A synthesis were effectively controlled. At low concentrations, MJ stimulated the synthesis of proscillaridin A (PsA). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of suspension extracts demonstrated that the callus maintained in MS media enriched with 1 mg/L 2, 4-D and 0.5 mg/L Kin yielded a greater formation of Proscillaridin A (141.31 mg/g DW) than untreated plants. Conclusions: The results indicate that in vitro cultures of U. maritima may be an excellent source of proscillaridin A. Moreover, it is one of the most important cardiac glycoside, which has been found to exhibit anticancer activities. Suspension cultures of Urginea cells could be as highly productive as a callus culture.
The impact of microplastic pollution on ecological environment: a review
Authors: Mao Xi , Xu Yuchen , Cheng Zhong , Yang Yunbo , Guan Zetang , Jiang Lu , Tang Kai
Published: February 2022

Microplastic pollution and its impact on the ecological environment have attracted worldwide attention. The strong adsorption capacity of the microplastic surface plays an important role in the migration of microplastics throughout the environment. Synergistic effects between microplastics and persistent organic pollutants increase the toxicity of pollutants to organisms. In addition, microplastics cause different degrees of harm to aquatic organisms with different nutritional levels. However, the toxic effects of microplastics and organic pollutants on organisms, the distribution of microplastics in higher aquatic organisms, and the nutrient transfer in complex aquatic food webs require further research. Therefore, studying the impact of microplastics on the ecological environment would provide insights into controlling microplastic pollution. This paper in-depth discusses the source, distribution, and transmission of microplastics and summarizes the current situation of the impact of microplastics on the ecological environment, including physical, chemical, and biological effects. This paper also suggests topics for further research on the influence of microplastics on various aspects of the ecological environment.
Establishing a missing person DNA Biobank as a form of human rights protection
Authors: Carnevali Eugenia , Severini Simona , Margiotta Gabriele , Onofri Martina , Gambelunghe Cristiana , Carlini Luigi , Bacci Mauro
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, organ transplantation is considered an established medical practice that, every year, improves the quality of life of thousands of patients. However, the increasing demands for kidney transplantation are in contrast with the global lack of organs. The imbalance between supply and demand for organs has created the basis for a highly profitable black market, placing illicit organ trafficking in the broader context of human trafficking. Currently, thanks to the advancements of the analytical techniques used in laboratories, forensic genetics is able to discriminate the geographical origin of genetically distinct populations. The recent availability of genetic data regarding many populations of the world and the concomitant development of technologies and methodologies that are appropriate for the study of panels of STRs and SNPs are fundamental resources in this direction. This type of analyses, together with the creation of missing person DNA databases, may be used in cases of dubious origin of organs or in transplantation cases in which clear and comprehensive medical records of patients and donors are not available. It can also establish a scientific tool useful to contrast the illegal traffic of human kidneys. In this article, we will discuss biological and ethical aspects of this interesting perspective.
SKF38393 prevents high glucose (HG)-induced endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting the effects of HG on cystathionine γ-lyase/hydrogen sulfide activity and via a RhoA/ROCK1 pathway
Authors: Chang Gui-Quan , Bai Shu-Zhi , Sun Feng-Qi , Wu Ren , Wei Can , Wen Xin , Xi Yu-Xin , Hao Jing-Hui , Zaid Altaany , Li Hong-Zhu
Published: February 2022

Background: Endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in diabetic vascular complications. A decrease in hydrogen sulfide (H2S) levels is increasingly becoming a vital factor contributing to high glucose (HG)-induced endothelial dysfunction. Dopamine D1-like receptors (DR1) activation has important physiological functions in the cardiovascular system. H2S decreases the dysfunction of vascular endothelial cells. However, no studies have reported whether DR1 protects the function of vascular endothelial cells by regulating H2S levels. Aim: The present study aimed to determine whether DR1 regulates the levels of endogenous H2S, which exerts protective effects against HG-induced injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) via Ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA)/Rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinase 1 (ROCK1) signalling. Methods: HUVECs were exposed to HG (30 mM) or normal glucose (5.5 mM) after different treatments. Cell viability, proliferation and migration were measured by Cell Counting Kit-8, EdU cell proliferation assay, transwell assay and wound healing assay, respectively. H2S probe (7-Azido-4-Methylcoumarin) was used to detect levels of H2S. The intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) were measured using Fluo-4 AM. The protein expressions were quantified by Western blot. Results: We found that HG decreased the expression of DR1 and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) and H2S production. The DR1 agonist SKF38393 significantly increased DR1 and CSE expression and H2S production, whereas NaHS (a H2S donor) only increased CSE expression and H2S production but had no effect on DR1 expression. Meanwhile, SKF38393 further increased the [Ca2+]i induced by HG. In addition, HG reduced cell viability and the expression of Cyclin D1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen and increased the expression of p21C⁢i⁢p/W⁢A⁢F-1, collagen I, collagen III, matrix metalloproteinase 9, osteopontin and α-smooth muscle actin and the activity of phosphorylated RhoA and ROCK1. SKF38393 and NaHS reversed these effects of HG. PPG (a CSE inhibitor) abolished the beneficial effect of SKF38393. These effects of SKF38393 were similar to those of Y-27632 (a ROCK inhibitor). Conclusion: Taken together, our results suggest that DR1 activation upregulates the CSE/H2S pathway by increasing the [Ca2+]i, which protects endothelial cells from HG-induced injury by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK1 pathway.
Identification of biomarkers and regulatory networks for cartilage damage patients
Authors: Liu Baohong , Xiao Xingxing
Published: February 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to mine cartilage damage and regeneration-related biomarkers and identify the gene regulatory networks of cartilage damage. Methods: A gene expression data set (GSE129147) containing damaged and control samples collected from the knee of the same patients was employed. R package limma was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and clusterProfiler was performed for the GO and KEGG functional enrichment analysis. Cytoscape plug-ins of CytoHubba and MCODE were applied to investigate protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, modules, and hub genes. Results: We identified 422 DEGs that were involved in skeletal system development, bone development, ossification, mesenchyme development, mesenchymal cell differentiation, connective tissue development, osteoblast differentiation, and extracellular matrix. We dug out 30 hub genes, identified three PPI modules, and constructed a miRNA regulatory network for DEGs. The miRNAs of the DEGs were predicted by miRNet, and the miRNA-mRNA network displayed some important miRNAs such as miR-335-5p, miR-92a-3p, and miR-98-5p. Conclusions: Collectively, these results have the potential to clarify the mechanism of cartilage damage and to assist us in discovering the damage and repair-related biomarkers.
Bio-3D printing of scaffold-free osteogenic and chondrogenic constructs using rat adipose-derived stromal cells
Authors: Fujimoto Ryota , Murata Daiki , Nakayama Koichi
Published: February 2022

Background: Although autogenous bone implantation is considered to be the gold standard for the reconstruction of bone defects, this approach remains challenging when treating extensive bone defects (EBDs). Therefore, artificial materials (AMs) such as artificial bone and scaffolds are often used for treating EBDs. Nevertheless, complications such as material failure, foreign body reaction, and infection are common. To overcome these issues, we aimed to develop a new treatment for an EBD using scaffold-free adipose-derived stromal cells (ADSCs) to fabricate chondrogenic/osteogenic-induced constructs without AMs. Methods: ADSCs were obtained from the subcutaneous adipose tissue of 8-week-old female Wistar rats (n = 3) and assessed to determine their potential for multilineage differentiation into adipocytes (Oil Red O staining), chondrocytes (hematoxylin and eosin, Alcian blue, and Safranin O staining), and osteoblasts (Alizarin red and von Kossa staining). Spheroids (n = 320), each containing 3.0 × 104 ADSCs, were then used to fabricate scaffold-free cell constructs using a bio-3D printer with a needle array. The spheroids and constructs were stimulated with induction medium to induce chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation. The induced cartilage- and bone-like constructs were finally evaluated using micro-computed tomography (μCT) and histological analysis. Results: The collected ADSCs were capable of trilineage differentiation, and were successfully used to produce scaffold-free constructs. The fabricated constructs (n = 3) exhibited equivalent strength (load, 195.3 ± 6.1 mN; strength, 39.1 ± 1.2 kPa; and stiffness, 0.09 ± 0.01 N/mm) to that of soft tissues such as the muscles in the uninduced condition. In chondrogenic induction experiments, Alcian blue and Safranin O staining confirmed the differentiation of the constructs into cartilage, and cartilage tissue-like structures were produced. In the osteogenic induction experiment, Alizarin Red and von Kossa staining showed calcium salt deposition, and μCT images confirmed the same calcification level as that of the cortical bone. Conclusions: Scaffold-free constructs consisting of ADSCs without an AM were fabricated, and cartilage- and bone-like tissues were successfully generated, demonstrating their potential for bone reconstruction.
Genetic insights and evaluation of forensic features in Mongolian and Ewenki groups using the InDel variations
Authors: Lan Qiong , Zhao Congying , Wei Cong , Xu Hui , Shen Chunmei , Zhu Bofeng
Published: February 2022

Background: InDel polymorphisms show great potential for use with challenging DNA samples in forensic practice due to having similar advantages to STRs and SNPs. Large-scale InDel genotype data are becoming available world wide populations, thus providing an alternative for investigating genetic architectures in rarely studied populations from a genome perspective. Methods: Here, we genotyped 47 highly polymorphic InDel variations in 157 Mongolian and 100 Ewenki individuals from the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China in order to evaluate their utility for forensic purposes. Results: The CDPs of the 47 InDels for these groups were calculated to be 0.999999999999999999874 and 0.999999999999999999677, respectively, while the CPEs were 0.99981 and 0.99975, respectively. The 47 InDel variations were therefore an efficient tool for forensic personal identification in the Mongolian and Ewenki ethnic groups. Comparison of results from the present study with datasets from previously published literatures and from the 1000 Genomes Project revealed a prominent East Asian ancestry component in the gene pool of both ethnic groups, hinting at the close genetic relationships between Mongolian, Ewenki and most East Asian populations. Furthermore, Han populations from northern China showed even closer genetic affinities with the Mongolian and Ewenki groups. Conclusions: The data presented here would facilitate the forensic application of InDels for Mongolian and Ewenki ethnic minorities and expand our knowledge regarding the genetic diversities of these populations.
Integrated pathophysiology of schizophrenia, major depression, and bipolar disorder as monoamine axon disorder
Authors: Nakamura Shoji
Published: February 2022

Recent studies provide evidence that similar to early-stage Parkinson’s disease, depression is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of monoamine axons. The major difference between the two disorders is that the symptoms of depression become evident without loss of monoamine neurons, while the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease appear after loss of the cell body. Given that the axonal degeneration of monoamine neurons underlies the pathophysiology of neurological (Parkinson’s disease) and neuropsychiatric (depression) diseases, axonal impairment of monoamine neurons is thought to also occur in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and play a significant role in the pathophysiology of these mental illnesses. The positive symptoms of schizophrenia and manic symptoms of bipolar disorder are known to occur in hyper-monoaminergic states, opposite to depressive symptoms, negative/cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia, and motor disorders of Parkinson’s disease, all occurring in hypo-monoaminergic states. Since monoamine axons have the capacity to spontaneously regenerate or sprout in response to damage in the adult brain and sometimes show hyperinnervation due to excessive regeneration/sprouting beyond normal levels, it is possible that schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are disorders that include excessive regeneration/sprouting of monoamine axons leading to hyper-monoaminergic states. Together, based on accumulating data from animal and human studies, the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, major depression, and bipolar disorder is summarized as follows: The degeneration of monoamine axons is associated with the negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia, major and bipolar depression, while hyper-regeneration/sprouting of monoamine axons underlies the positive symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar mania. The integrated understanding of schizophrenia, major depression, and bipolar disorder as monoamine axon disorder will open the door to the development of new diagnosis and treatment methods for major mental illnesses as well as early-stage Parkinson’s disease.