bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of electromagnetic anomalies over seismic regions during two strong (MW > 5) earthquakes
Authors: Recchiuti D. , D’Angelo G. , Papini E. , Diego P. , Cicone A. , Parmentier A. , Ubertini P. , Battiston R. , Piersanti M.
Published: March 2023

Ionospheric disturbances (such as electromagnetic emissions) in connection to strong earthquakes have been reported in literature for over two decades. In order to be reliable, the identification of such disturbances requires a preliminary robust definition of the ionospheric background in the absence of both seismic activity and any other possible input (e.g., transient change in solar activity).

In this work, we present a new technique for the assessment of the electromagnetic (EM) background in the ionosphere over seismic regions. The background is estimated via a multiscale statistical analysis that makes use of most of the electric- and magnetic-field datasets (2019–2021) from the China Seismo-Electromagnetic Satellite (CSES-01).

The result is a map of the average relative energy in a 6° x 6° LAT-LON cell centered at the earthquake epicenter (EE). Only EM signals that statistically differ from the background should be considered as events suitable for investigation.

The method is tested against two strong seismic events, the 14 August 2021 Haitian earthquake (7.2 MW) and the 27 September 2021 Cretan earthquake (6.0 MW). In the former case, a signal (with characteristic frequency of 250 Hz) can be identified, which emerges from the background. In the latter one, the concurrent strong geomagnetic activity does not allow to tell any distinct signal apart from the background.
Lifelong learning processes in professional development for online teachers during the Covid era
Authors: Reychav Iris , Elyakim Nitzan , McHaney Roger
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Lifelong learning encompasses four pillars: (1) learning to know; (2) learning to do; (3) learning to be; and (4) learning to live together. These four pillars, which are expanded upon within the current study provide a lens to examine relationships between professional development, use of technology for remote online teaching, and pedagogical efficacy in the age of COVID-19.

Methods

The study examined survey responses from 372 primary school subjects representing six different districts, and interviews with 16 teachers. The responses were analyzed using correlation and MANOVA statistical tests.

Results

Teachers’ professional development processes were found to have a positive impact on the teachers’ pedagogical efficacy, by means of positive perceptions toward the use of technology for remote online teaching. Learning foci predicted the use of technology, and the use of technology predicted learning assessment measurements.

Discussion

The study’s findings reinforce the need for professional development processes based on systematic identification of pedagogical needs that arise in the field, their analysis and the understanding of the added value of pedagogical tools that can support enhanced implementation of teaching - learning - evaluation. The study’s findings point to epistemological elements related to the types of acquired knowledge and to learning methods, which make it possible to differentiate between various processes in teachers’ professional development as well as processes in the use of innovative pedagogical technology.
Biomaterials for Testicular Bioengineering: How far have we come and where do we have to go?
Authors: Horvath-Pereira Bianca de Oliveira , Almeida Gustavo Henrique Doná Rodrigues , Silva Júnior Leandro Norberto da , do Nascimento Pedro Gabriel , Horvath Pereira Bárbara de Oliveira , Fireman João Victor Barbosa Tenório , Pereira Maria Laura dos Reis Ferre , Carreira Ana Claudia Oliveira , Miglino Maria Angelica
Published: March 2023

Traditional therapeutic interventions aim to restore male fertile potential or preserve sperm viability in severe cases, such as semen cryopreservation, testicular tissue, germ cell transplantation and testicular graft. However, these techniques demonstrate several methodological, clinical, and biological limitations, that impact in their results. In this scenario, reproductive medicine has sought biotechnological alternatives applied for infertility treatment, or to improve gamete preservation and thus increase reproductive rates in vitro and in vivo. One of the main approaches employed is the biomimetic testicular tissue reconstruction, which uses tissue-engineering principles and methodologies. This strategy pursues to mimic the testicular microenvironment, simulating physiological conditions. Such approach allows male gametes maintenance in culture or produce viable grafts that can be transplanted and restore reproductive functions. In this context, the application of several biomaterials have been proposed to be used in artificial biological systems. From synthetic polymers to decellularized matrixes, each biomaterial has advantages and disadvantages regarding its application in cell culture and tissue reconstruction. Therefore, the present review aims to list the progress that has been made and the continued challenges facing testicular regenerative medicine and the preservation of male reproductive capacity, based on the development of tissue bioengineering approaches for testicular tissue microenvironment reconstruction.
SDHB immunohistochemistry for prognosis of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma: A retrospective and prospective analysis
Authors: Su Tingwei , Yang Yifan , Jiang Lei , Xie Jing , Zhong Xu , Wu Luming , Jiang Yiran , Zhang Cui , Zhou Weiwei , Ye Lei , Ning Guang , Wang Weiqing
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PCC/PGL) are rare neuroendocrine tumors and can secrete catecholamine. Previous studies have found that SDHB immunohistochemistry (IHC) can predict SDHB germline gene mutation, and SDHB mutation is closely associated with tumor progression and metastasis. This study aimed to clarify the potential effect of SDHB IHC as a predictive marker for tumor progression in PCC/PGL patients.

Methods

We included PCC/PGL patients diagnosed in Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from 2002 to 2014 for retrospective analysis and discovered that SDHB (-) staining patients had poorer prognoses. Then we examined SDHB protein expression by IHC on all tumors in the prospective series, which was composed of patients from 2015 to 2020 in our center.

Results

In the retrospective series, the median follow-up was 167 months, and during follow-up, 14.4% (38/264) patients developed metastasis or recurrence, and 8.0% (22/274) patients died. Retrospective analysis revealed that 66.7% (6/9) of participants in the SDHB (-) group and 15.7% (40/255) of those in the SDHB (+) group developed progressive tumors (OR: 10.75, 95% CI: 2.72-52.60, P=0.001), and SDHB (-) was independently associated with poor outcomes after adjusting by other clinicopathological parameters (OR: 11.68, 95% CI: 2.58-64.45, P=0.002). SDHB (-) patients had shorter disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) (P<0.001) and SDHB (-) was significantly associated with shorter median DFS (HR: 6.89, 95% CI: 2.41-19.70, P<0.001) in multivariate cox proportional hazard analysis. In the prospective series, the median follow-up was 28 months, 4.7% (10/213) patients developed metastasis or recurrence, and 0.5% (1/217) patient died. For the prospective analysis, 18.8% (3/16) of participants in the SDHB (-) group had progressive tumors compared with 3.6% (7/197) in the SDHB (+) group (RR: 5.28, 95% CI: 1.51-18.47, P=0.009), statistical significance remained (RR: 3.35, 95% CI: 1.20-9.38, P=0.021) after adjusting for other clinicopathological factors.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrated patients with SDHB (-) tumors had a higher possibility of poor outcomes, and SDHB IHC can be regarded as an independent biomarker of prognosis in PCC/PGL.
Identification of five hub immune genes and characterization of two immune subtypes of osteoarthritis
Authors: Pan Lifeng , Yang Feng , Cao Xianhua , Zhao Hongchang , Li Jian , Zhang Jinxi , Guo Jiandong , Jin Zhijiang , Guan Zhongning , Zhou Feng
Published: March 2023

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases, leading to degeneration of joints, chronic pain, and disability in the elderly. Little is known about the role of immune-related genes (IRGs) and immune cells in OA.

Method

Hub IRGs of OA were identified by differential expression analysis and filtered by three machine learning strategies, including random forest (RF), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and support vector machine (SVM). A diagnostic nomogram model was then constructed by using these hub IRGs, with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curve analysis (CICA) estimating its performance and clinical impact. Hierarchical clustering analysis was then conducted by setting the hub IRGs as input information. Differences in immune cell infiltration and activities of immune pathways were revealed between different immune subtypes.

Result

Five hub IRGs of OA were identified, including TNFSF11, SCD1, PGF, EDNRB, and IL1R1. Of them, TNFSF11 and SCD1 contributed the most to the diagnostic nomogram model with area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.904 and 0.864, respectively. Two immune subtypes were characterized. The immune over-activated subtype showed excessively activated cellular immunity with a higher proportion of activated B cells and activated CD8 T cells. The two phenotypes were also seen in two validation cohorts.

Conclusion

The present study comprehensively investigated the role of immune genes and immune cells in OA. Five hub IRGs and two immune subtypes were identified. These findings will provide novel insights into the diagnosis and treatment of OA.
Natural selection and convergent evolution of the HOX gene family in Carnivora
Authors: Fang Wenxue , Li Kexin , Ma Shuai , Wei Fuwen , Hu Yibo
Published: March 2023

HOX genes play a central role in the development and regulation of limb patterns. For mammals in the order Carnivora, limbs have evolved in different forms, and there are interesting cases of phenotypic convergence, such as the pseudothumb of the giant and red pandas, and the flippers or specialized limbs of the pinnipeds and sea otter. However, the molecular bases of limb development remain largely unclear. Here, we studied the molecular evolution of the HOX9 ~ 13 genes of 14 representative species in Carnivora and explored the molecular evolution of other HOX genes. We found that only one limb development gene, HOXC10, underwent convergent evolution between giant and red pandas and was thus an important candidate gene related to the development of pseudothumbs. No signals of amino acid convergence and natural selection were found in HOX9 ~ 13 genes between pinnipeds and sea otter, but there was evidence of positive selection and rapid evolution in four pinniped species. Overall, few HOX genes evolve via natural selection or convergent evolution, and these could be important candidate genes for further functional validation. Our findings provide insights into potential molecular mechanisms of the development of specialized pseudothumbs and flippers (or specialized limbs).
Identification and validation of novel prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Lai Li-Ting , Ren Yuan-Hui , Huai Ya-Jun , Liu Yu , Liu Ying , Wang Shan-Shan , Mei Jin-Hong
Published: March 2023

Background: Despite the significant survival benefits of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains one of the most common tumors and major causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify new therapeutic targets for this refractory disease.

Methods: In this study, microarray datasets GSE27262, GSE75037, GSE102287, and GSE21933 were integrated by Venn diagram. We performed functional clustering and pathway enrichment analyses using R. Through the STRING database and Cytoscape, we conducted protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and identified the key genes, which were verified by the GEPIA2 and UALCAN portal. Validation of actin-binding protein anillin (ANLN) was performed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier methods were used to compute the survival analyses.

Results: In total, 126 differentially expressed genes were identified, which were enriched in mitotic nuclear division, mitotic cell cycle G2/M transition, vasculogenesis, spindle, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling pathway. 12 central node genes were identified in the PPI network complex. The survival analysis revealed that high transcriptional levels were associated with inferior survival in NSCLC patients. The clinical implication of ANLN was further explored; its protein expression showed a gradually increasing trend from grade I to III.

Conclusion: These Key genes may be involved in the carcinogenesis and progression of NSCLC, which may serve as useful targets for NSCLC diagnosis and treatment.
Metabolome profile variations in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) resistant and susceptible genotypes incited by rust (Uromyces appendiculatus)
Authors: Makhumbila Penny , Rauwane Molemi E. , Muedi Hangwani H. , Madala Ntakadzeni E. , Figlan Sandiswa
Published: March 2023

The causal agent of rust, Uromyces appendiculatus is a major constraint for common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) production. This pathogen causes substantial yield losses in many common bean production areas worldwide. U. appendiculatus is widely distributed and although there have been numerous breakthroughs in breeding for resistance, its ability to mutate and evolve still poses a major threat to common bean production. An understanding of plant phytochemical properties can aid in accelerating breeding for rust resistance. In this study, metabolome profiles of two common bean genotypes Teebus-RR-1 (resistant) and Golden Gate Wax (susceptible) were investigated for their response to U. appendiculatus races (1 and 3) at 14- and 21-days post-infection (dpi) using liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC-qTOF-MS). Non-targeted data analysis revealed 71 known metabolites that were putatively annotated, and a total of 33 were statistically significant. Key metabolites including flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids and lipids were found to be incited by rust infections in both genotypes. Resistant genotype as compared to the susceptible genotype differentially enriched metabolites including aconifine, D-sucrose, galangin, rutarin and others as a defence mechanism against the rust pathogen. The results suggest that timely response to pathogen attack by signalling the production of specific metabolites can be used as a strategy to understand plant defence. This is the first study to illustrate the utilization of metabolomics to understand the interaction of common bean with rust.
DNA lipid nanoparticle vaccine targeting outer surface protein C affords protection against homologous Borrelia burgdorferi needle challenge in mice
Authors: Pfeifle Annabelle , Thulasi Raman Sathya N. , Lansdell Casey , Zhang Wanyue , Tamming Levi , Cecillon Jonathon , Laryea Emmanuel , Patel Devina , Wu Jianguo , Gravel Caroline , Frahm Grant , Gao Jun , Chen Wangxue , Chaconas George , Sauve Simon , Rosu-Myles Michael , Wang Lisheng , Johnston Michael J. W. , Li Xuguang
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The incidence of Lyme disease (LD) in Canada and the United States has risen over the last decade, nearing 480,000 cases each year. Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, the causative agent of LD, is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick, resulting in flu-like symptoms and often a characteristic bull’s-eye rash. In more severe cases, disseminated bacterial infection can cause arthritis, carditis and neurological impairments. Currently, no vaccine is available for the prevention of LD in humans.

Methods

In this study, we developed a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-encapsulated DNA vaccine encoding outer surface protein C type A (OspC-type A) of B. burgdorferi.

Results

Vaccination of C3H/HeN mice with two doses of the candidate vaccine induced significant OspC-type A-specific antibody titres and borreliacidal activity. Analysis of the bacterial burden following needle challenge with B. burgdorferi (OspC-type A) revealed that the candidate vaccine afforded effective protection against homologous infection across a range of susceptible tissues. Notably, vaccinated mice were protected against carditis and lymphadenopathy associated with Lyme borreliosis.

Discussion

Overall, the results of this study provide support for the use of a DNA-LNP platform for the development of LD vaccines.
Roles of macrophages on ulcerative colitis and colitis-associated colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Maorun , Li Xiaoping , Zhang Qi , Yang Jiahua , Liu Gang
Published: March 2023

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer is the most serious complication of ulcerative colitis. Long-term chronic inflammation increases the incidence of CAC in UC patients. Compared with sporadic colorectal cancer, CAC means multiple lesions, worse pathological type and worse prognosis. Macrophage is a kind of innate immune cell, which play an important role both in inflammatory response and tumor immunity. Macrophages are polarized into two phenotypes under different conditions: M1 and M2. In UC, enhanced macrophage infiltration produces a large number of inflammatory cytokines, which promote tumorigenesis of UC. M1 polarization has an anti-tumor effect after CAC formation, whereas M2 polarization promotes tumor growth. M2 polarization plays a tumor-promoting role. Some drugs have been shown to that prevent and treat CAC effectively by targeting macrophages.
Guarding net effects on landings and discards in Mediterranean trammel net fishery: Case analysis of Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area (Central Mediterranean Sea, Italy)
Authors: Sardo Giacomo , Vecchioni Luca , Milisenda Giacomo , Falsone Fabio , Geraci Michele Luca , Massi Daniela , Rizzo Pietro , Scannella Danilo , Vitale Sergio
Published: March 2023

Discards remain among the main negative impacts of fishing activities, and their reductions are strengthened by the European Common Fisheries Policy (European Regulation 1380/2013). Trammel net fisheries appear more sustainable compared with other fishing techniques, especially from an ecological viewpoint. Despite this, reports show that trammel net fisheries deliver discard quantities between 10% and 43% of the total catch biomass. To supplement existing information, this current work attempts to address the discard reduction using guarding net in the small-scale fisheries of Egadi Islands MPA (Western Sicily, Central Mediterranean Sea). To assess the reduction of unwanted catches, 48 experimental fishing trials were conducted within a 6-month period. The experimental fishing trial employed a trammel net made up of 20 panels alternated with two different net configurations. The control panels (CN) held a large outer (180 mm) and small inner (31.25 mm) meshes. The test panels (GN) with guarding net constituted a three-mesh-high (50-mm mesh size) net placed between trammel net panels and a lead line. A total of 3,310 individuals belonging to 106 taxa and nine phyla were caught. Crustaceans were the most abundant unwanted catches in the control panels, whereas bioconstructions occurred in the guarding net panels. The discard ratios of CN and GN panels were statistically different (t-value = –2.55; p< 0.05). The analysis of catch per unit effort showed higher catches of CN panels for both commercial and discard fractions (p< 0.05). Moreover, the guarding net panels caught the main discarded species at 20% lower compared with the control. The overall value of the catch at the CN panels (€ 3,366.90) was higher than the total income (€ 2,043.70) generated using the GN panels, which suggests a significant commercial loss of 40% (p< 0.05).
Effects of anthropogenic sounds on the behavior and physiology of the Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica)
Authors: Ledoux Tamara , Clements Jeff C. , Comeau Luc A. , Cervello Gauthier , Tremblay Réjean , Olivier Frédéric , Chauvaud Laurent , Bernier Renée Y. , Lamarre Simon G.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Noise pollution is a major stressor in the marine environment; however, responses of economically and ecologically important invertebrates, such as oysters, are largely unknown.

Methods

Under laboratory conditions, we measured acute behavioral and physiological responses of eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) to sound treatments mimicking human activity in the environment.

Results

Oysters immediately reduced their valve gape under simulated pile driving sound, but not drilling or boating sound. Pile-driving sound also reduced adductor muscle glycogen, but not triglyceride. None of the sound treatments affected longer-term (12 hours) valve activity levels after the administration of sounds. Interestingly, neither acute nor longer-term valve gaping responses were correlated with glycogen content on the individual level, suggesting that the observed behavioral responses to sound were not mechanistically driven by energetic physiology.

Discussion

Our results suggest that C. virginica responds to some, but not all, anthropogenic sounds. Future studies assessing downstream effects on growth, reproduction, and survival in the wild are needed to better understand the effects of anthropogenic sounds on oyster populations and the biological communities they support.
Design and testing of a mechanized brush-screen cooperative vibration harvester for mudflat-buried shellfish based on the discrete element method
Authors: Li Hangqi , Mu Gang , Zhang Hanbing , Wu Hao , Liu Fawei , Sun Zhenyin , Zhang Qian , Wang Yizhou , Wang Yurui , Li Xiuchen , Zhang Guochen
Published: March 2023

Introduction

To enhance the application of mechanized harvesting and supplement research on harvesting theory in mudflat-buried shellfish harvesting in China, a brush-screen cooperative mudflat-buried shellfish vibration harvester was designed.

Methods

The harvester is primarily composed of a crank rocker double-layer vibrating screen, two stage rolling brush, and a conveyor chain. White clams (Mactra veneriformis) cultured in mudflats were used as the research objects in this paper, and the mechanics and motion states of the shellfish on the vibrating screen were analyzed. The shellfish harvesting simulation response surface experiments based on the discrete element method (DEM) were conducted to analyze the influence of the main operating parameters on the quantity of shellfish harvested.

Results

The results revealed that the number of shellfish harvested was significantly influenced (p< 0.01) by vibrating screen amplitude, first-stage spiral rolling stainless steel brush rotation rate, and harvester travel speed. The optimal combination of key parameters was 1.4 mm, 40 rpm, and 10 m/min, respectively. With these values, the projected shellfish crushing rate was 2.82% and the shellfish harvesting efficiency was 125 pieces/m2. The equipment was then manufactured and the shellfish harvesting verification test was performed under the same operating parameters as the simulation. Test results indicated that the harvesting efficiency of the equipment was 114 pieces/m2 and the shellfish crushing rate was 6.97%.

Discussion

The shellfish harvesting work could be completed by the equipment effectively and with low loss. The results of this study provide a theoretical reference for a novel mechanized method of harvesting mudflat-buried shellfish.
Serological testing for Hansen’s disease diagnosis: Clinical significance and performance of IgA, IgM, and IgG antibodies against Mce1A protein
Authors: Lima Filipe Rocha , Simões Mateus Mendonça Ramos , da Costa Manso Gabriel Martins , Toro Diana Mota , Antunes Vanderson Mayron Granemann , Felisbino Giovani Cesar , Dias Gabriela Ferreira , Riley Lee W. , Arruda Sérgio , de Paula Natália Aparecida , Lugão Helena Barbosa , Perecin Fernanda André Martins Cruz , Foss Norma Tiraboschi , Frade Marco Andrey Cipriani
Published: March 2023

Hansen’s disease (HD) is an infectious, treatable, and chronic disease. It is the main cause of infectious peripheral neuropathy. Due to the current limitations of laboratory tests for the diagnosis of HD, early identification of infected contacts is an important factor that would allow us to control the magnitude of this disease in terms of world public health. Thus, a cross-sectional study was conducted in the Brazilian southeast with the objective of evaluating humoral immunity and describing the accuracy of the immunoassay based on IgA, IgM, and IgG antibodies against surface protein Mce1A of Mycobacterium, the predictive potential of these molecules, the clinical significance of positivity, and the ability to segregate new HD cases (NC; n = 200), contacts (HHC; n = 105), and healthy endemic controls (HEC; n = 100) as compared to α-PGL-I serology. α-Mce1A levels for all tested antibodies were significantly higher in NC and HHC than in HEC (p < 0.0001). The performance of the assay using IgA and IgM antibodies was rated as highly accurate (AUC > 0.85) for screening HD patients. Among HD patients (NC), positivity was 77.5% for IgA α-Mce1A ELISA, 76.5% for IgM, and 61.5% for IgG, while α-PGL-I serology showed only 28.0% positivity. Multivariate PLS-DA showed two defined clusters for the HEC and NC groups [accuracy = 0.95 (SD = 0.008)] and the HEC and HHC groups [accuracy = 0.93 (SD = 0.011)]. IgA was the antibody most responsible for clustering HHC as compared to NC and HEC, evidencing its usefulness for host mucosal immunity and as an immunological marker in laboratory tests. IgM is the key antibody for the clustering of NC patients. Positive results with high antibody levels indicate priority for screening, new clinical and laboratory evaluations, and monitoring of contacts, mainly with antibody indexes ≥2.0. In light of recent developments, the incorporation of new diagnostic technologies permits to eliminate the main gaps in the laboratory diagnosis of HD, with the implementation of tools of greater sensitivity and accuracy while maintaining satisfactory specificity.
Review of therapeutic mechanisms and applications based on SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Liu Mingtao , Gan Hui , Liang Zhiman , Liu Li , Liu Qiwen , Mai Yiyin , Chen Huihuang , Lei Baoying , Yu Shangwei , Chen Huihui , Zheng Peiyan , Sun Baoqing
Published: March 2023

COVID-19 pandemic is a global public health emergency. Despite extensive research, there are still few effective treatment options available today. Neutralizing-antibody-based treatments offer a broad range of applications, including the prevention and treatment of acute infectious diseases. Hundreds of SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody studies are currently underway around the world, with some already in clinical applications. The development of SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody opens up a new therapeutic option for COVID-19. We intend to review our current knowledge about antibodies targeting various regions (i.e., RBD regions, non-RBD regions, host cell targets, and cross-neutralizing antibodies), as well as the current scientific evidence for neutralizing-antibody-based treatments based on convalescent plasma therapy, intravenous immunoglobulin, monoclonal antibodies, and recombinant drugs. The functional evaluation of antibodies (i.e., in vitro or in vivo assays) is also discussed. Finally, some current issues in the field of neutralizing-antibody-based therapies are highlighted.
Prediction and bioactivity of small-molecule antimicrobial peptides from Protaetia brevitarsis Lewis larvae
Authors: Fu Qian , Cao Dengtian , Sun Jing , Liu Xinbo , Li Haitao , Shu Changlong , Liu Rongmei
Published: March 2023

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are widely recognized as promising natural antimicrobial agents. Insects, as the group of animals with the largest population, have great potential as a source of AMPs. Thus, it is worthwhile to investigate potential novel AMPs from Protaetia brevitarsis Lewis larvae, which is a saprophagous pest prevalent in China. In this study, comparing the whole-genome sequence of Protaetia brevitarsis Lewis larvae with the Antimicrobial Peptide Database (APD3) led to the identification of nine peptide templates that were potentially AMPs. Next, based on the peptide templates, 16 truncated sequences were predicted to the AMPs by bioinformatics software and then underwent structural and physicochemical property analysis. Thereafter, candidate small-molecule AMPs were artificially synthesized and their minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were assessed. A candidate peptide, designated FD10, exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against both bacteria and fungi comprising Escherichia coli (MIC: 8 μg/mL), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC: 8 μg/mL), Bacillus thuringiensis (MIC: 8 μg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 16 μg/mL), and Candida albicans (MIC: 16 μg/mL). Additionally, two other candidate peptides, designated FD12 and FD15, exhibited antimicrobial activity against both E. coli (MIC: both 32 μg/mL) and S. aureus (MIC: both 16 μg/mL). Moreover, FD10, FD12, and FD15 killed almost all E. coli and S. aureus cells within 1 h, and the hemolytic effect of FD10 (0.31%) and FD12 (0.40%) was lower than that of ampicillin (0.52%). These findings indicate that FD12, FD15, and especially FD10 are promising AMPs for therapeutic application. This study promoted the development of antibacterial drugs and provided a theoretical basis for promoting the practical application of antimicrobial peptides in the Protaetia brevitarsis Lewis larvae.
Influence of tillage and residue management practices on productivity, sustainability, and soil biological properties of rice-barley cropping systems in indo-gangetic plain of India
Authors: Chandra Priyanka , Khippal Anil Kumar , Prajapat Kailash , Barman Arijit , Singh Geeta , Rai Arvind Kumar , Ahlawat Om Parkash , Verma R. P. S. , Kumari Kamini , Singh Gyanendra
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Conservation agriculture is a sustainable system of farming that safeguard and conserves natural resources besides enhancing crop production. The biological properties of soil are the most sensitive indicator to assess the short term impact of management practices such as tillage and residue incorporation.

Methods

Nine treatments of tillage and residue management practices [Reduced till direct seeded rice-zero till barley (RTDSR–ZTB); RTDSR–ZTB–green gram residue (Gg); Zero till direct seeded rice–zero till barley–zero till green gram (ZTDSR–ZTB–ZTGg); RTDSR–ZTB + rice residue at 4 t ha 1 (RTDSR–ZTBRR4); RTDSR–ZTBRR6; un-puddled transplanted rice (UPTR)–ZTB–Gg; UPTR–ZTBRR4; UPTR–ZTBRR6, and puddled transplanted rice (PTR)–RTB] executed under fixed plot for five years on crop productivity and soil biological properties under rice-barley production system.

Results

The shifting in either RTDSR or ZTDSR resulted in yield penalty in rice compared to PTR. The PTR recorded highest pooled grain yield of 3.61 ha−1. The rice grain yield reduced about 10.6% under DSR as compared to PTR. The ZTB along with residue treatments exhibited significantly higher grain yield over ZTB, and the RTDSR-ZTBRR6 registered highest pooled grain yield of barley. The system productivity (12.45 t ha−1) and sustainable yield index (0.87) were highest under UPTR-ZTBRR6. Biological parameters including microbial biomass carbon, soil respiration, microbial enzymes (Alkaline phosphatase, nitrate reductase and peroxidase), fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis, ergosterol, glomalin related soil proteins, microbial population (bacteria, fungi and actinobacteria) were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) effected by different nutrient management practices. Based on the PCA analysis, Fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis, microbial biomass carbon, soil respiration, nitrate reductase and fungi population were the important soil biological parameters indicating soil quality and productivity in present experiment. The results concluded that UPTR-ZTBRR6 was a more suitable practice for maintaining system productivity and soil biological health.

Discussion

The understanding of the impact of different tillage and residue management practices on productivity, soil biological properties and soil quality index under rice-barley cropping system will help in determining the combination of best conservation agriculture practices for improved soil quality and sustainable production.
Bio-priming of banana tissue culture plantlets with endophytic Bacillus velezensis EB1 to improve Fusarium wilt resistance
Authors: Xiang Dandan , Yang Xiaofang , Liu Bojing , Chu Yuanqi , Liu Siwen , Li Chunyu
Published: March 2023

Tissue culture techniques have been routinely used for banana propagation and offered rapid production of planting materials with favorable genotypes and free of pathogenic microorganisms in the banana industry. Meanwhile, extensive scientific work suggests that micropropagated plantlets are more susceptible to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), the deadly strain that causes Fusarium wilt of bananas than conventional planting material due to the loss of indigenous endophytes. In this study, an endophytic bacterium Bacillus velezensis EB1 was isolated and characterized. EB1 shows remarkable in vitro antagonistic activity against Foc with an inhibition rate of 75.43% and induces significant morphological and ultrastructural changes and alterations in the hyphae of Foc. Colony-forming unit (c.f.u.) counting and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that EB1 could colonize both the surface and inner tissues of banana tissue culture plantlets. Banana tissue culture plantlets of late rooting stage bioprimed with EB1 could efficiently ward off the invasive of Foc. The bio-priming effect could maintain in the acclimatized banana plants and significantly decrease the disease severity of Fusarium wilt and induce strong disease resistance by manipulating plant defense signaling pathways in a pot experiment. Our results provide the adaptability and potential of native endophyte EB1 in protecting plants from pathogens and infer that banana tissue culture plantlets bio-priming with endophytic microbiota could be a promising biological solution in the fight against the Fusarium wilt of banana.
Cholesterol in the ciliary membrane as a therapeutic target against cancer
Authors: Kimura Sotai , Morita Tomoka , Hosoba Kosuke , Itoh Hiroshi , Yamamoto Takashi , Miyamoto Tatsuo
Published: March 2023

Primary cilium is a non-motile, antenna-like structure that develops in the quiescent G0 phase-cell surface. It is composed of an array of axonemal microtubules polymerized from the centrosome/basal body. The plasma membrane surrounding the primary cilium, which is called the ciliary membrane, contains a variety of receptors and ion channels, through which the cell receives extracellular chemical and physical stimuli to initiate signal transduction. In general, primary cilia disappear when cells receive the proliferative signals to re-enter the cell cycle. Primary cilia thus cannot be identified in many malignant and proliferative tumors. In contrast, some cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, medulloblastoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, and other malignancies, retain their primary cilia. Importantly, it has been reported that the primary cilia-mediated oncogenic signals of Hedgehog, Wnt, and Aurora kinase A are involved in the tumorigenesis and tumor progression of basal cell carcinoma and some types of medulloblastoma. It has also been demonstrated that cholesterol is significantly more enriched in the ciliary membrane than in the rest of the plasma membrane to ensure Sonic hedgehog signaling. A series of epidemiological studies on statin drugs (cholesterol-lowering medication) demonstrated that they prevent recurrence in a wide range of cancers. Taken together, ciliary cholesterol could be a potential therapeutic target in primary cilia-dependent progressive cancers.
Association between diabetes mellitus, prediabetes and risk, disease progression of Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhong Qifan , Wang Shenglong
Published: March 2023

Background

Previous studies reported inconsistent results regarding association between diabetes mellitus (DM), prediabetes and risk, disease progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). The meta-analysis was made to investigate association between DM, prediabetes and risk, disease progression of PD.

Methods

Literatures investigating association between DM, prediabetes and risk, disease progression of PD were searched in these databases: PubMed and Web of Science. Included literatures were published before October 2022. STATA 12.0 software was used to compute odds ratios (ORs)/relative risks (RRs) or standard mean differences (SMDs).

Results

DM was associated with a higher risk of PD, compared to non-diabetic participants with a random effects model (OR/RR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.12–1.35, I2 = 90.4%, p < 0.001). PD with DM (PD-DM) was associated with a faster motor progression compared to PD without DM (PD-noDM) with a fixed effects model (RR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.47–2.34, I2 = 47.3%, p = 0.091). However, meta-analysis for comparison in change rate of United Rating Scale (UPDRS) III scores from baseline to follow-up time between PD-DM and PD-noDM reported no difference in motor progression between PD-DM and PD-noDM with a random effects model (SMD = 2.58, 95% CI = −3.11 to 8.27, I2 = 99.9%, p < 0.001). PD-DM was associated with a faster cognitive decline compared to PD-noDM with a fixed effects model (OR/RR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.45–2.55, I2 = 50.3%, p = 0.110).

Conclusions

In conclusion, DM was associated with a higher risk and faster disease decline of PD. More large-scale cohort studies should be adopted to evaluate the association between DM, prediabetes and PD.
The eNOS isoform exhibits increased expression and activation in the main olfactory bulb of nNOS knock-out mice
Authors: Pérez-Boyero David , Hernández-Pérez Carlos , Valero Jorge , Cabedo Valeria Lorena , Alonso José Ramón , Díaz David , Weruaga Eduardo
Published: March 2023

The main olfactory bulb (MOB) is a neural structure that processes olfactory information. Among the neurotransmitters present in the MOB, nitric oxide (NO) is particularly relevant as it performs a wide variety of functions. In this structure, NO is produced mainly by neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) but also by inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). The MOB is considered a region with great plasticity and the different NOS also show great plasticity. Therefore, it could be considered that this plasticity could compensate for various dysfunctional and pathological alterations. We examined the possible plasticity of iNOS and eNOS in the MOB in the absence of nNOS. For this, wild-type and nNOS knock-out (nNOS-KO) mice were used. We assessed whether the absence of nNOS expression could affect the olfactory capacity of mice, followed by the analysis of the expression and distribution of the NOS isoforms using qPCR and immunofluorescence. NO production in MOB was examined using both the Griess and histochemical NADPH-diaphorase reactions. The results indicate nNOS-KO mice have reduced olfactory capacity. We observed that in the nNOS-KO animal, there is an increase both in the expression of eNOS and NADPH-diaphorase, but no apparent change in the level of NO generated in the MOB. It can be concluded that the level of eNOS in the MOB of nNOS-KO is related to the maintenance of normal levels of NO. Therefore, our findings suggest that nNOS could be essential for the proper functioning of the olfactory system.
MRI-based radiomics models for the early prediction of radiation-induced temporal lobe injury in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Huang Lixuan , Yang Zongxiang , Zeng Zisan , Ren Hao , Jiang Muliang , Hu Yao , Xu Yifan , Zhang Huiting , Ma Kun , Long Liling
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study was conducted to develop and validate a radiomics-clinics combined model-based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiomics and clinical features for the early prediction of radiation-induced temporal lobe injury (RTLI) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted using data from 130 patients with NPC (80 patients with and 50 patients without RTLI) who received radiotherapy. Cases were assigned randomly to training (n = 91) and testing (n = 39) datasets. Data on 168 medial temporal lobe texture features were extracted from T1WI, T2WI, and T1WI-CE MRI sequences obtained at the end of radiotherapy courses. Clinics, radiomics, and radiomics–clinics combined models (based on selected radiomics signatures and clinical factors) were constructed using machine learning software. Univariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent clinical factors. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was performed to evaluate the performance of three models. A nomogram, decision curves, and calibration curves were used to assess the performance of the combined model.

Results

Six texture features and three independent clinical factors associated significantly with RTLI were used to build the combined model. The AUCs for the combined and radiomics models were 0.962 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.9306–0.9939] and 0.904 (95% CI, 0.8431–0.9651), respectively, for the training cohort and 0.947 (95% CI, 0.8841–1.0000) and 0.891 (95% CI, 0.7903–0.9930), respectively, for the testing cohort. All of these values exceeded those for the clinics model (AUC = 0.809 and 0.713 for the training and testing cohorts, respectively). Decision curve analysis showed that the combined model had a good corrective effect.

Conclusion

The radiomics–clinics combined model developed in this study showed good performance for predicting RTLI in patients with NPC.
A summary of the current diagnostic methods for, and exploration of the value of microRNAs as biomarkers in, sepsis-associated encephalopathy
Authors: Yuechen Zhang , Shaosong Xi , Zhouxing Zhang , Fuli Gu , Wei Hu
Published: March 2023

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is an acute neurological deficit caused by severe sepsis without signs of direct brain infection, characterized by the systemic inflammation and disturbance of the blood–brain barrier. SAE is associated with a poor prognosis and high mortality in patients with sepsis. Survivors may exhibit long-term or permanent sequelae, including behavioral changes, cognitive impairment, and decreased quality of life. Early detection of SAE can help ameliorate long-term sequelae and reduce mortality. Half of the patients with sepsis suffer from SAE in the intensive care unit, but its physiopathological mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, the diagnosis of SAE remains a challenge. The current clinical diagnosis of SAE is a diagnosis of exclusion; this makes the process complex and time-consuming and delays early intervention by clinicians. Furthermore, the scoring scales and laboratory indicators involved have many problems, including insufficient specificity or sensitivity. Thus, a new biomarker with excellent sensitivity and specificity is urgently needed to guide the diagnosis of SAE. MicroRNAs have attracted attention as putative diagnostic and therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases. They exist in various body fluids and are highly stable. Based on the outstanding performance of microRNAs as biomarkers for other neurodegenerative diseases, it is reasonable to infer that microRNAs will be excellent biomarkers for SAE. This review explores the current diagnostic methods for sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE). We also explore the role that microRNAs could play in SAE diagnosis and if they can be used to make the SAE diagnosis faster and more specific. We believe that our review makes a significant contribution to the literature because it summarizes some of the important diagnostic methods for SAE, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages in clinical use, and could benefit the field as it highlights the potential of miRNAs as SAE diagnostic markers.
Altered neuromagnetic activity in default mode network in childhood absence epilepsy
Authors: Wang Yingfan , Li Yihan , Sun Fangling , Xu Yue , Xu Fengyuan , Wang Siyi , Wang Xiaoshan
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The electrophysiological characterization of resting state oscillatory functional connectivity within the default mode network (DMN) during interictal periods in childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) remains unclear. Using magnetoencephalographic (MEG) recordings, this study investigated how the connectivity within the DMN was altered in CAE.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional design, we analyzed MEG data from 33 children newly diagnosed with CAE and 26 controls matched for age and sex. The spectral power and functional connectivity of the DMN were estimated using minimum norm estimation combined with the Welch technique and corrected amplitude envelope correlation.

Results

Default mode network showed stronger activation in the delta band during the ictal period, however, the relative spectral power in other bands was significantly lower than that in the interictal period (pcorrected < 0.05 for DMN regions, except bilateral medial frontal cortex, left medial temporal lobe, left posterior cingulate cortex in the theta band, and the bilateral precuneus in the alpha band). It should be noted that the significant power peak in the alpha band was lost compared with the interictal data. Compared with controls, the interictal relative spectral power of DMN regions (except bilateral precuneus) in CAE patients was significantly increased in the delta band (pcorrected < 0.01), whereas the values of all DMN regions in the beta-gamma 2 band were significantly decreased (pcorrected < 0.01). In the higher frequency band (alpha-gamma1), especially in the beta and gamma1 band, the ictal node strength of DMN regions except the left precuneus was significantly higher than that in the interictal periods (pcorrected < 0.01), and the node strength of the right inferior parietal lobe increased most significantly in the beta band (Ictal: 3.8712 vs. Interictal: 0.7503, pcorrected < 0.01). Compared with the controls, the interictal node strength of DMN increased in all frequency bands, especially the right medial frontal cortex in the beta band (Controls: 0.1510 vs. Interictal: 3.527, pcorrected < 0.01). Comparing relative node strength between groups, the right precuneus in CAE children decreased significantly (β: Controls: 0.1009 vs. Interictal: 0.0475; γ 1: Controls:0.1149 vs. Interictal:0.0587, pcorrected < 0.01) such that it was no longer the central hub.

Conclusion

These findings indicated DMN abnormalities in CAE patients, even in interictal periods without interictal epileptic discharges. Abnormal functional connectivity in CAE may reflect abnormal anatomo-functional architectural integration in DMN, as a result of cognitive mental impairment and unconsciousness during absence seizure. Future studies are needed to examine if the altered functional connectivity can be used as a biomarker for treatment responses, cognitive dysfunction, and prognosis in CAE patients.