bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelagem molecular de isoformas e docagem molecular da enzima hipoxantina-guanina fosforibosiltransferase (HGPRT) de Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: De Lima Cassiano Vicente , Borchhardt Moda Deise , Romanello Larissa
Published: April 2023

A esquistossomose é uma doença parasitária que afeta cerca de 240 milhões de pessoas em todo o mundo. Diferente de seu hospedeiro humano, o Schistosoma mansoni - parasito causador dessa doença, não possui a via metabólica de sí­ntese de purinas e depende integralmente da via de salvação para suprimento dessas bases. Assim, esta via tem sido citada na literatura como alvo potencial para o desenvolvimento de novos fármacos, uma vez que para o tratamento da doença, apenas um fármaco é utilizado, o praziquantel, e diversos casos de resistência do parasito a esse medicamento já foram reportadas. A HGPRT é uma das enzimas dessa via e catalisa a fosforibosilação reversí­vel de hipoxantina e guanina para IMP (inosina monofosfato) ou GMP (guanosina monofosfato). Uma vez que no genoma do parasito foram identificadas três sequências que codificam para HGPRT e apenas uma das isoformas foi resolvida experimentalmente, a modelagem molecular por homologia foi realizada como forma preditiva para o estudo das estruturas ainda não resolvidas. A construção dos modelos foi realizada pelo servidor Swiss-Model; as visualizações, análises e validações pelos softwares UFSC-Chimera, PyMol e Procheck. Os modelos obtidos demonstraram qualidade satisfatória para as análises e enovelamento conservado entre as isoformas comparadas. Como ferramenta preditiva e de busca por possí­veis inibidores para a enzima, foi realizada a docagem molecular na estrutura cristalográfica, elucidando comportamento e interação de pequenas moléculas no sí­tio ativo da enzima. Uma vez que esta foi resolvida complexada com IMP, a busca por ligantes se limitou a estruturas análogas ao mesmo e que possuí­am potencial farmacológico. Para isso, foram utilizados quatro compostos da classe dos aciclonucleosí­deos (acyclovir, adefovir, penciclovir e tenofovir) obtidos através do banco de dados PubChem. Os resultados da docagem foram avaliados quanto a sua pontuação e sua similaridade com o IMP, sugerindo que o penciclovir tem a maior afinidade com o sí­tio ativo e foi o segundo composto melhor pontuado pelo programa entre os testados. Os resultados obtidos contribuem para o planejamento de ensaios biológicos de atividade enzimática com os compostos docados e a resolução experimental das estruturas modeladas.
Aplicabilidade da conversão fotovoltaica para carregador de celular – Pesquisa em sala de aula
Authors: Oliveira Aldeni Melo de , Ferreira Giovanne Tavares , Strohschoen Andreia Aparecida Guimarães
Published: April 2023

Este estudo trata da pesquisa em sala de aula como estratégia de ensino. Objetivou-se a busca pela sustentabilidade no uso de carregadores de celulares utilizando energia fotovoltaica, principalmente por passageiros de ônibus e embarcações. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de cunho qualitativo, descritiva e exploratória. Foi desenvolvida com alunos do ensino fundamental de uma escola de Macapá/AP, nas aulas de Ciências. Onde a partir da revisão teórica, os alunos realizaram entrevistas com passageiros de ônibus e embarcações, testaram protótipos de carregador de celular utilizando a energia fotovoltaica e analisaram os dados obtidos. Produziram mapas conceituais e discutiram os resultados, desenvolvendo a capacidade argumentativa. Os alunos sentiram-se altamente motivados após observarem os resultados obtidos durante as atividades desenvolvidas. Conseguiram ver a relação entre o conhecimento cientí­fico das aulas e a realidade do cotidiano e principalmente como podem fazer a diferença na sociedade.
Parâmetros fí­sico-quí­micos em amostras de vinhos orgânicos da região de Bela Vista do Toldo, Santa Catarina
Authors: Deller Andrei Elias , Martins Elisandra Carolina
Published: April 2023

Para estudos foram selecionadas amostras de vinhos provenientes da safra de 2018 de um cultivo orgânico da uva Bordô, sem registro oficial, para determinar alguns parâmetros fí­sico-quí­micos e assim, verificar se as amostras possuem os parâmetros de identidade e qualidade estabelecidos pela legislação. Os parâmetros verificados foram densidade, acidez total, pH, teor de cloretos e de sulfatos e o teor alcoólico. Todas as determinações foram realizadas de acordo com a metodologia proposta pela Embrapa Uva e Vinho. Os resultados obtidos indicam que o teor alcoólico foi de 12,81 e 12,64% para as amostras de vinho branco e tinto, respectivamente. O valor obtido de pH para a amostra de vinho branco foi de 3,04, enquanto para o vinho tinto foi de 3,19. A acidez total obtida foi de 97,15 ± 0,97 mEq L-1 para as amostras de vinho tinto e 127,27 ± 0,53 mEq L-1 para as amostras de vinho branco. O teor de sulfato obtido foi inferior a 0,7 g L-1 para ambas as amostras, que por se tratar de um teste semiquantitativo forneceu apenas a faixa de concentração, não o valor exato. O teor de cloretos para as amostras de vinho tinto foi de 0,022 ± 0,006 g L-1, enquanto para as amostras de vinho branco foi de 0,017 ± 0,002 g L-1. Como esperado, os resultados são diferentes para o vinho tinto e para o vinho branco pois tratam-se de dois tipos de vinhos com processos de produção diferentes, mas todos os resultados estiveram conforme os parâmetros estabelecidos por lei.
Conhecimento Empí­rico e Cientí­fico: Correlação nos processos de biofertilização utilizados na agricultura orgânica familiar
Authors: Mendes Amanda Brixner , Krupek Rogerio Antonio
Published: April 2023

Atualmente vivemos um momento em que a demanda por alimentos orgânicos é crescente. Este fato faz com que produtores convencionais busquem a conversão para a produção orgânica. Entretanto a produção orgânica possui normas especí­ficas e determinados produtos e substâncias que não devem ser utilizados. Tradicionalmente agricultores agroecológicos orgânicos utilizam caldas e outras técnicas alternativas como repelente e fertilizante, porém muitas vezes sem embasamento cientí­fico, apenas movido pelo saber popular. Portanto, este trabalho teve como objetivo correlacionar as técnicas tradicionais orgânicas com o conhecimento cientí­fico. Para a obtenção das técnicas tradicionais foram analisadas 20 obras e cartilhas (publicadas entre 1994 e 2018) voltadas para este público (pequenos agricultores familiares), sendo destas selecionadas as 10 técnicas (plantas e/ou materiais utilizados) repetidas mais vezes em diferentes obras. Estas técnicas e plantas foram comparados à resultados descritos em artigos cientí­ficos publicados em periódicos reconhecidos (com ISSN) a fim de correlacionar os saberes empí­ricos com o cientí­fico. As técnicas e plantas que mais se repetiram foram Alho (n=16), Calda Bordalesa, (n=16), Pimenta, (n=14), Leite ou soro de leite (n=13), Calda Sulfocálcica (n=13), Arruda (n=12), Cravo de Defunto (n=11), Neem (n=11), Urtiga (n=10), Cinamomo (n=9) e Cinza (n=9), todas com diferentes finalidades. Através destas análises pode-se observar que não existem parâmetros pré estabelecidos para o preparo e utilização dos produtos descritos, o que dificulta muito a sua correta utilização, embora, muitas das técnicas tenham respaldo cientí­fico, conforme observado. Neste sentido, salienta-se que a agricultura orgânica carece de maior número de pesquisa cientí­fica especí­fica, para que os saberes populares possam ser melhor empregados.
A influência do horário do arraçoamento no desempenho produtivo de alevinos de Tilápia
Authors: Sloty Alessandro Mateus , Do Nascimento Viviane Demetrio , Noleto Rafael Bueno , De Oliveira Renan Gargiel , Ribeiro Marcos Otávio
Published: April 2023

A tilápia é considerada uma das espécies mais promissoras na piscicultura. Sua produção aumentou significativamente na última década ocasionada pela sua capacidade de adaptar-se a diversos tipos de ambiente, rápido crescimento e hábito alimentar oní­voro. Todavia um dos principais desafios enfrentados na tilapicultura brasileira é referente à alimentação, que compreende um dos maiores custos de produção. Assim, constantes inovações nas técnicas de criação se fazem necessárias na busca do aperfeiçoamento e expansão da produção resultando em melhor custo-benefí­cio. O estudo objetivou avaliar se o perí­odo em que os alevinos de tilápia são alimentados pode influenciar no seu desempenho. Para isso foram utilizados seis tanques de alvenaria medindo 10m3, com 70 alevinos para cada unidade experimental, totalizando 420 alevinos com médias de 10g (+1) e 8cm (+1) cada indiví­duo. Foram testados dois tipos de tratamentos com tréplicas para cada: em um tratamento os alevinos foram alimentados no perí­odo da manhã às 9 horas e no outro tratamento no perí­odo da tarde, às 16 horas. Foi utilizado ração do tipo comercial extrusada com 32% de proteí­na bruta. A quantidade de ração fornecida inicialmente foi de 8% do peso médio e após 15 dias reduzida para 5%. Os resultados obtidos apontaram diferenças de rendimento no crescimento dos alevinos entre os tratamentos. Contrariando as expectativas demonstradas na literatura, o grupo alimentado pela manhã teve melhores indicadores de ganho de peso diário, ganho de peso relativo e conversão alimentar aparente, porém não foi uma diferença significativa
Perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes ofí­dicos na cidade de Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais, Brasil (2007-2021)
Authors: Dias Edigar Henrique Vaz , Costa Giulia Marla de Lima , Mamede Carla Cristine Neves , Costa Júnia de Oliveira
Published: April 2023

As pesquisas epidemiológicas sobre os acidentes ofí­dicos são importantes para a Saúde Pública. Devido à carência de estudos sobre o ofidismo no municí­pio de Ituiutaba, Estado de Minas Gerais- Brasil, o presente trabalho descreve as caracterí­sticas epidemiológicas dos acidentes ofí­dicos notificados no municí­pio no perí­odo de 2007 a 2021. As informações foram obtidas do banco de dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN). De acordo com nosso estudo, foram registrados 244 casos de acidentes por serpentes peçonhentas na cidade de Ituiutaba no perí­odo analisado, sendo 82% deles ocasionados pelo gênero Bothrops, seguido de Crotalus (16%) e Micrurus (2%). Quanto a gravidade, foram notificados 115 (47,1%) e 107 (44%) casos de acidentes ofí­dicos classificados como leves e moderados, respectivamente, com 232 (99%) casos evoluí­dos para cura e uma taxa de letalidade de 1,0%. Ainda, os dados sobre o intervalo de tempo entre o acidente e atendimento médico mostraram que 208 casos (85,5%) tiveram o atendimento médico nas primeiras três horas após a picada. O presente trabalho é um precursor na caracterização do perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes ofí­dicos no municí­pio de Ituiutaba-MG e apresenta dados importantes que podem fomentar ações de vigilância em saúde e de orientação dos profissionais de saúde da região, possibilitar ações educativas para a população em geral e contribuir para a distribuição racional dos soros antiofí­dicos no municí­pio.
Identification and validation of a novel cuproptosis-related gene signature in multiple myeloma
Authors: Zhang Bingxin , Wang Quanqiang , Zhang Tianyu , Zheng Ziwei , Lin Zhili , Zhou Shujuan , Zheng Dong , Chen Zixing , Zheng Sisi , Zhang Yu , Lin Xuanru , Dong Rujiao , Chen Jingjing , Qian Honglan , Hu Xudong , Zhuang Yan , Zhang Qianying , Jin Zhouxiang , Jiang Songfu , Ma Yongyong
Published: April 2023

Background: Cuproptosis is a newly identified unique copper-triggered modality of mitochondrial cell death, distinct from known death mechanisms such as necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematologic neoplasm characterized by the malignant proliferation of plasma cells. In the development of MM, almost all patients undergo a relatively benign course from monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) to smoldering myeloma (SMM), which further progresses to active myeloma. However, the prognostic value of cuproptosis in MM remains unknown.

Method: In this study, we systematically investigated the genetic variants, expression patterns, and prognostic value of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in MM. CRG scores derived from the prognostic model were used to perform the risk stratification of MM patients. We then explored their differences in clinical characteristics and immune patterns and assessed their value in prognosis prediction and treatment response. Nomograms were also developed to improve predictive accuracy and clinical applicability. Finally, we collected MM cell lines and patient samples to validate marker gene expression by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).

Results: The evolution from MGUS and SMM to MM was also accompanied by differences in the CRG expression profile. Then, a well-performing cuproptosis-related risk model was developed to predict prognosis in MM and was validated in two external cohorts. The high-risk group exhibited higher clinical risk indicators. Cox regression analyses showed that the model was an independent prognostic predictor in MM. Patients in the high-risk group had significantly lower survival rates than those in the low-risk group (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, CRG scores were significantly correlated with immune infiltration, stemness index and immunotherapy sensitivity. We further revealed the close association between CRG scores and mitochondrial metabolism. Subsequently, the prediction nomogram showed good predictive power and calibration. Finally, the prognostic CRGs were further validated by qRT-PCR in vitro.

Conclusion: CRGs were closely related to the immune pattern and self-renewal biology of cancer cells in MM. This prognostic model provided a new perspective for the risk stratification and treatment response prediction of MM patients.
A process-model-free method for model predictive control via a reference model-based proportional-integral-derivative controller with application to a thermal power plant
Authors: Shi Gengjin , Ma Miaomiao , Li Donghai , Ding Yanjun , Lee Kwang Y.
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Model predictive control (MPC) is an advanced control strategy which can achieve fast reference tracking response and deal with process constraints, time delay and multivariable problems. However, thermal processes in coal-fired power plants are usually difficult to model accurately, which limits the application of MPC to thermal power plants.

Methods: To solve the problem, this paper proposes a process-model-free method for MPC via a reference model (RM)-based controller, i.e., a desired dynamic equational (DDE) proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller (DDE-PID).

Results and Discussion: The DDE-PID can provide the design model and enhance the disturbance rejection ability for MPC. Simulations and results of field tests on a coal-fired unit show the superiorities of the proposed controller in reference tracking, disturbance rejection and robustness, which indicates the promising prospect of the field application of the MPC with DDE-PID, or MPC-DDE in short, to thermal power plants.
Case report: Aortoesophageal fistula—an extremely rare but life-threatening cardiovascular cause of hematemesis
Authors: Wong Alexis Ching , Chou Yu-Mou , Goh Zhong Ning Leonard , Chang Kuang-Fu , Seak Chen-June
Published: April 2023

Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) is an extremely rare cardiovascular etiology of hematemesis and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. As such, its recognition and diagnosis are challenging and may be delayed when such patients present to the emergency department (ED). Without timely surgical intervention, AEF is almost always fatal. Awareness of AEF as a possible diagnosis and consequently early identification of these patients presenting to the ED are therefore crucial in optimizing clinical outcomes. We report a 45-year-old male presenting to the ED with the classical triad of an AEF (Chiari's triad)—midthoracic pain or dysphagia, a sentinel episode of minor hematemesis, then massive hematemesis with risk of exsanguination. The case report highlights the importance of considering the differential diagnosis of AEF when evaluating patients presenting to the ED with hematemesis, especially if they have predisposing risk factors such as prior aortic or esophageal surgeries, aortic aneurysms, or thoracic malignancies. Patients suspected of having AEF should be prioritized for early computed tomography angiography to expedite diagnosis and treatment.
Seismic imaging of fluid-filled inherited structures of the Northern Thessaly (Greece) seismic gap
Authors: Napolitano F. , Amoroso O. , De Novellis V. , Adinolfi G. M. , De Matteis R. , Sansosti E. , Russo D. , Caputo R. , Convertito V.
Published: April 2023

We present the first seismic imaging of the crustal volume affected by the March-April 2021 Thessaly sequence by applying a 3D seismic tomography to the aftershocks recorded by an unprecedented number of stations. The results, in terms of VP, VS, and VP/VS ratio and earthquakes’ location parameters, depict blind fluid-filled inherited structures within the Northern Thessaly seismic gap. The tomographic images highlight the basal detachment accommodating the Pelagonian nappe onto the carbonate of the Gavrovo unit. The high VP/VS (>1.85) where most of the seismicity occurs increases from SE to NW, showing possible fluid accumulation in the NW edge of the seismogenic volume that could have contributed to the sequence evolution. The aftershock relocations correlate well with the fault planes of the three mainshocks proposed by several geodetic models, but also show additional possible faults sub-parallel and antithetical to the main structures, not to be overlooked for future seismic risk mitigation.
Active surveillance in differentiated thyroid cancer: a strategy applicable to all treatment categories response
Authors: Campopiano Maria Cristina , Ghirri Arianna , Prete Alessandro , Lorusso Loredana , Puleo Luciana , Cappagli Virginia , Agate Laura , Bottici Valeria , Brogioni Sandra , Gambale Carla , Minaldi Elisa , Matrone Antonio , Elisei Rossella , Molinaro Eleonora
Published: April 2023

Currently, the differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) management is shifted toward a tailored approach based on the estimated risks of recurrence and disease-specific mortality. While the current recommendations on the management of metastatic and progressive DTC are clear and unambiguous, the management of slowly progressive or indeterminate disease varies according to different centers and different physicians. In this context, active surveillance (AS) becomes the main tool for clinicians, allowing them to plan a personalized therapeutic strategy, based on the risk of an unfavorable prognosis, and to avoid unnecessary treatment. This review analyzes the main possible scenarios in treated DTC patients who could take advantage of AS.
The effect of hypoxia on Daphnia magna performance and its associated microbial and bacterioplankton community: A scope for phenotypic plasticity and microbiome community interactions upon environmental stress?
Authors: Coone Manon , Vanoverberghe Isabel , Houwenhuyse Shira , Verslype Chris , Decaestecker Ellen
Published: April 2023

The depletion of oxygen as a result of increased stratification and decreased oxygen solubility is one of the most significant chemical changes occurring in aquatic ecosystems as a result of global environmental change. Hence, more aquatic organisms will be exposed to hypoxic conditions over time. Deciphering the effects of hypoxia on strong ecological interactors in this ecosystem’s food web is critical for predicting how aquatic communities can respond to such an environmental disturbance. Here (sub-)lethal effects of hypoxia and whether these are genotype specific in Daphnia, a keystone species of freshwater ecosystems, are studied. This is especially relevant upon studying genetic responses with respect to phenotypic switches upon environmental stress. Further, we investigated the effect of hypoxia on the Daphnia microbial community to test if the microbiome plays a role in the phenotypic switch and tolerance to hypoxia. For this, two Daphnia genotypes were exposed for two weeks to either hypoxia or normoxia and host performance was monitored together with changes in the host associated and free-living microbial community after this period. We detected phenotypic plasticity for some of the tested Daphnia performance traits. The microbial community of the bacterioplankton and Daphnia associated microbial community responded via changes in species richness and community composition and structure. The latter response was different for the two genotypes suggesting that the microbiome plays an important role in phenotypic plasticity with respect to hypoxia tolerance in Daphnia, but further testing (e.g., through microbiome transplants) is needed to confirm this.
Thallium-induced DNA damage, genetic, and epigenetic alterations
Authors: Sánchez-Chapul Laura , Santamaría Abel , Aschner Michael , Ke Tao , Tinkov Alexey A. , Túnez Isaac , Osorio-Rico Laura , Galván-Arzate Sonia , Rangel-López Edgar
Published: April 2023

Thallium (Tl) is a toxic heavy metal responsible for noxious effects in living organisms. As a pollutant, Tl can be found in the environment at high concentrations, especially in industrial areas. Systemic toxicity induced by this toxic metal can affect cell metabolism, including redox alterations, mitochondrial dysfunction, and activation of apoptotic signaling pathways. Recent focus on Tl toxicity has been devoted to the characterization of its effects at the nuclear level, with emphasis on DNA, which, in turn, may be responsible for cytogenetic damage, mutations, and epigenetic changes. In this work, we review and discuss past and recent evidence on the toxic effects of Tl at the systemic level and its effects on DNA. We also address Tl’s role in cancer and its control.
Combination of single-nucleus and bulk RNA-seq reveals the molecular mechanism of thalamus haemorrhage-induced central poststroke pain
Authors: Huang Tianfeng , Xiao Yinggang , Zhang Yang , Ge Yali , Gao Ju
Published: April 2023

Central poststroke pain (CPSP) induced by thalamic haemorrhage (TH) can be continuous or intermittent and is accompanied by paresthesia, which seriously affects patient quality of life. Advanced insights into CPSP mechanisms and therapeutic strategies require a deeper understanding of the molecular processes of the thalamus. Here, using single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq), we sequenced the transcriptomes of 32332 brain cells, which revealed a total of four major cell types within the four thalamic samples from mice. Compared with the control group, the experimental group possessed the higher sensitivity to mechanical, thermal, and cold stimuli, and increased microglia numbers and decreased neuron numbers. We analysed a collection of differentially expressed genes and neuronal marker genes obtained from bulk RNA sequencing (bulk RNA-seq) data and found that Apoe, Abca1, and Hexb were key genes verified by immunofluorescence (IF). Immune infiltration analysis found that these key genes were closely related to macrophages, T cells, related chemokines, immune stimulators and receptors. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis also showed that the key genes were enriched in biological processes such as protein export from nucleus and protein sumoylation. In summary, using large-scale snRNA-seq, we have defined the transcriptional and cellular diversity in the brain after TH. Our identification of discrete cell types and differentially expressed genes within the thalamus can facilitate the development of new CPSP therapeutics.
The development of a quantification method for measuring iridescence using sexually selected traits in the Gulf pipefish (Syngnathus scovelli)
Authors: Tosto Nicole M. , Rose Emily , Flanagan Sarah P. , Mason Heather D.
Published: April 2023

Reliably quantifying the strength of visual sexual signals, such as iridescence, has been challenging across the field of evolutionary biology, but is critically important for studying biologically relevant trait variation. To address this issue, we present the Iridescence Detection and Isolation Algorithm (IDIA), which was designed to isolate the iridescent signal from photographs for quantification of ornamentation. The Gulf pipefish, Syngnathus scovelli, served as a model system for testing the limits of the algorithm, and was an ideal test case due to their female-specific iridescent bands on their abdomens with a large degree of among-individual variation. Specifically, we tested the repeatability of iridescence estimates in a variety of settings, including manual versus automated measurements, a gradient of lighting intensities, observational data from multiple populations, and in detecting exposure to synthetic estrogen. Using the IDIA, female iridescence was quantified in two ways with results indicating a manual measurement of each individual band may be more reliable than the automated measurement taken by drawing a polygon around all bands. However, the intensity of the lighting the photographs were taken in did not significantly affect repeatability of the measurement of iridescence no matter how it was taken. The IDIA was able to detect geographical variation in female ornamentation of S. scovelli, demonstrating that our automated approach can potentially replicate previously-described population-level variation. Differences in the iridescent signal were significant when comparing female pipefish from the Florida coast to females collected from the Texas coast, indicating the possibility that external factors, such as differing environmental conditions, could affect the strength of female visual signals. Lastly, the IDIA was applied in an ecotoxicology application to detect the development of iridescence in male pipefish exposed to synthetic estrogen. Exposed males began expressing banding patterns with iridescence levels within the range of females. The results from this study confirm the feasibility of using the IDIA for measuring iridescence in fish across a variety of applications.
Advances in the management and translocation methodology of the endangered mollusk Patella ferruginea in artificial habitats of port infrastructures: implications for its conservation
Authors: García-Gómez José Carlos , Cid-Iturbe Amparo , Ostalé-Valriberas Enrique , Espada Rocío , Carballo José Luis , Fa Darren Andrew , García-Olaya Carlos , Blanca-Sújar Rocio
Published: April 2023

The limpet (Patella ferruginea), endemic to the western Mediterranean, is the most endangered intertidal mollusk listed in the Habitats Directive (EU). The translocation methodology of this species is a scientific challenge faced by those port infrastructures – where there are established breeding subpopulations - that may be subject to emergency works, restoration, or extension of breakwaters. This study presents the results of an innovative two-phase pilot project (P1A/B and P2), involving the legally authorized translocation of individuals of this species obtained in three relocation experiments in the Marina of Puerto José Banús (Málaga) in July 2021 (phase 1: P1A and B) and May 2022 (phase 2: P2) (study period: July 2021-October 2022). The specimens translocated in both phases were from the same port except for those of P1B, which came from the Marbella Marina as an exceptional case. These translocations were undertaken on concrete breakwater tetrapod units. We show that the somewhat forced, slow and unregulated extraction of specimens to be translocated during the first experiment of the P1A pilot project was the main cause of mortality, as it generated an important exhaustion of the fixation musculature, which resulted in a low survival (66%) after the first month of transfer, whereas during the same period of time. In the subsequent experiments (where the problem was methodologically corrected, a fast extraction technique -less than 5 seconds-, regulated and without injuries), in P1B was 100%, in P2 with cage was 93.3%, and, in P2 without cage it was 83.3%, which reflected an improvement in translocation methodology. The results of this research are compared according to the descriptors of success and failure of each protocol in order to observe the differences and thus enable their replicability.
Incidence of biopsy-proven giant cell arteritis (GCA) in South Australia 2014–2020
Authors: Ninan Jem , Ruediger Carlee , Dyer Kathryn A. , Dodd Thomas , Black Rachel J. , Lyne Suellen , Shanahan Ernst M. , Proudman Susanna M. , Lester Susan , McNeil Julian , Hill Catherine L.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To determine the incidence of biopsy proven giant cell arteritis (GCA) in South Australia.

Methods

Patients with biopsy-proven GCA were identified from pathology reports of temporal artery biopsies at state-based pathology laboratories, from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2020. Incidence rates for biopsy-proven GCA were calculated using Australian Bureau of Statistics data for South Australian population sizes by age, sex, and calendar year. Seasonality was analyzed by cosinor analysis.

Results

There were 181 cases of biopsy-proven GCA. The median age at diagnosis of GCA was 76 years (IQR 70, 81), 64% were female. The estimated population incidence for people over 50 was 5.4 (95% CI 4.7, 6.1) per 100,000-person years. The female: male incidence ratio was 1.6 (95% CI 1.2, 2.2). There was no ordinal trend in GCA incidence rates by calendar year (p = 0.29). The incidence was, on average, highest in winter, but not significantly (p = 0.35). A cosinor analysis indicated no seasonal effect (p = 0.52).

Conclusion

The incidence of biopsy-proven GCA remains low in Australia. A higher incidence was noted compared to an earlier study. However, differences in ascertainment and methods of GCA diagnosis may have accounted for the change.
The ratios of dietary non-fibrous carbohydrate (NFC) to neutral detergent fiber (NDF) influence intestinal immunity of rabbits by regulating gut microbiota composition and metabolites
Authors: Li Shuo , Liu Tingting , Wang Kun , Li Chong , Wu Fengyang , Yang Xinyu , Zhao Man , Chen Baojiang , Chen Xiang
Published: April 2023

Carbohydrate is the most common macronutrient consumed across all phases of the diet and acts as a potential regulator in modulating the gut microbiota in animals. However, the influences of dietary non-fibrous carbohydrate (NFC) to neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in different ratios on gut microbiota, metabolites, intestinal immunity, and growth performance have not been fully explored. A total of 135 healthy weaned rabbits (45.1 ± 0.7 d of age) with an average body weight of 1.08 ± 0.07 kg were randomly divided into five groups. Under the same other nutrient levels, rabbits were fed diets with NFC/NDF ratios of 0.7 (T1), 1.0 (T2), 1.3 (T3), 1.6 (T4), and 1.9 (T5). During the 28-day experiment, T3 rabbits showed the highest final body weight and the lowest feed-to-weight ratio than T5 rabbits (P < 0.05) but no significant difference with T1 or T2 rabbits. The expression of cecal pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF-α was increased in the T4 and T5 than in those of other groups (P < 0.05). Conversely, the tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Claudin-1, and Occludin) were decreased to varying degrees in the T4 and T5 groups. The pH value in the cecal digesta of T5 rabbits was lower than that of T1, T2, and T3 (P < 0.05), while the concentration of volatile fatty acids and propionate was higher than those of T1, T2, and T3 rabbits (P < 0.05). In terms of gut microbiota, at the phylum level, the relative burden of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria in T2 rabbits was the highest (P < 0.05), and the relative burden of Proteobacteria in T5 rabbits was higher than that of other groups (P < 0.05). At the genus level, the relative burden of Ruminococcus was higher in T2 and T3 rabbits than that of other groups, and T5 rabbits have the lowest relative burden of Ruminococcus. Combination analysis showed that cecal metabolites were positively associated with fermentation-related phenotypes and the burden of Firmicutes (P < 0.05). In conclusion, different dietary NFC/NDF ratios can affect the intestinal immune response and growth performance of rabbits, and there was a positive effect when dietary NFC/NDF = 1.0–1.3.
Integrated genome based evaluation of safety and probiotic characteristics of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum YW11 isolated from Tibetan kefir
Authors: Aziz Tariq , Naveed Muhammad , Jabeen Khizra , Shabbir Muhammad Aqib , Sarwar Abid , Zhennai Yang , Alharbi Metab , Alshammari Abdulrahman , Alasmari Abdullah F.
Published: April 2023

The comparative genomic analysis of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum YW11 (L. plantarum YW11) isolated from Tibetan kefir involves comparison of the complete genome sequences of the isolated strain with other closely related L. plantarum strains. This type of analysis can be used to identify the genetic diversity among strains and to explore the genetic characteristics of the YW11 strain. The genome of L. plantarum YW11 was found to be composed of a circular single chromosome of 4,597,470 bp with a G + C content of 43.2%. A total of 4,278 open reading frames (ORFs) were identified in the genome and the coding density was found to be 87.8%. A comparative genomic analysis was conducted using two other L. plantarum strains, L. plantarum C11 and L. plantarum LMG21703. Genomic comparison revealed that L. plantarum YW11 shared 72.7 and 75.2% of gene content with L. plantarum C11 and L. plantarum LMG21703, respectively. Most of the genes shared between the three L. plantarum strains were involved in carbohydrate metabolism, energy production and conversion, amino acid metabolism, and transcription. In this analysis, 10 previously sequenced entire genomes of the species were compared using an in-silico technique to discover genomic divergence in genes linked with carbohydrate intake and their potential adaptations to distinct human intestinal environments. The subspecies pan-genome was open, which correlated with its extraordinary capacity to colonize several environments. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the novel genomes were homogenously grouped among subspecies of l Lactiplantibacillus. L. plantarum was resistant to cefoxitin, erythromycin, and metronidazole, inhibited pathogens including Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium difficile, Vibrio cholera, and others, and had excellent aerotolerance, which is useful for industrial operations. The comparative genomic analysis of L. plantarum YW11 isolated from Tibetan kefir can provide insights into the genetic characteristics of the strain, which can be used to further understand its role in the production of kefir.
HIV-1 tropism in low-level viral load HIV-1 infections during HAART in Guangdong, China
Authors: Zhang Chuyu , Lan Yun , Li Linghua , He Ruiying , Meng Yu , Li Jian , Chen Weilie
Published: April 2023

Background

Since only a few studies have been conducted on the factors associated with different HIV-1 tropisms in low-level viral load HIV-1 infections in China, we investigated the sequences of HIV-1 V3 loop in prevalent HIV-1 subtypes and factors related to HIV-1 tropism and immune recovery in HIV-1 infections after 6 months of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in Guangdong, China.

Methods

Plasma samples with HIV-1 RNA of 400–999 copies/mL were collected. We analyzed the amino acid sequence of the V3 loop by in silico prediction algorithms. Mann–Whitney and Chi-square tests were used for statistical comparison. Furthermore, logistic regression and multiple linear regression were used, respectively, for factors associated with 351 HIV-1 tropism and immune recovery of 67 cases with continued CD4+ T cell count during HAART.

Results

There was a lower percentage of HIV-1 R5-tropic virus in CRF01_AE (66.3%) (p < 0.0001) and CRF55_01B (52.6%) (p < 0.0001) compared with both CRF07_BC (96.1%) and CRF08_BC (97.4%), respectively. Compared with the R5-tropic virus, higher proportions of IIe8/Val8, Arg11/Lys11, and Arg18/His18/Lys18 were observed in the X4-tropic virus of CRF01_AE and CRF07_BC (p < 0.0001). The baseline CD4+ T cell count (p < 0.0001) and baseline CD4+ T/CD8+ T ratio (p = 0.0006) of all R5-tropic infections were higher than those in the X4-tropic infection. The baseline CD4+ T cell count (odds ratio [OR] 0.9963, p = 0.0097), CRF07_BC (OR 0.1283, p = 0.0002), and CRF08_BC (OR 0.1124, p = 0.0381) were associated with less HIV-1 X4-tropism. The baseline CD4+ T cell count was a positive factor (p < 0.0001) in the recovery of CD4+ T cell count during HAART.

Conclusion

R5-tropism represented the majority in low-level viral load HIV-1 infections receiving HAART for more than 6 months in Guangdong, China. The baseline immune level in the HIV-1 R5-tropic infections was higher than that in the X4-tropic infections. The amino acids of the 8th, 11th, and 18th of the HIV-1 V3 loop were more variable in the X4-tropic HIV-1. CRF01_AE, CRF55_01B, and lower baseline CD4+ T cell count were associated with more HIV-1 X4-tropism. The immune recovery during HAART was positively related to baseline CD4+ T cell count.
Global patterns of plant and microbial biomass in response to CO2 fumigation
Authors: Zou Junliang , Zhang Weiwei , Zhang Yun , Wu Juying
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The stimulation of plant and microbial growth has been widely observed as a result of elevated CO2 concentrations (eCO2), however, this stimulation could be influenced by various factors and their relative importance remains unclear.

Methods

A global meta-analysis was performed using 884 lines of observations collected from published papers, which analyzed the eCO2 impact on plant and microbial biomass.

Results

A significant positive impact of eCO2 was observed on various biomass measures, including aboveground biomass (20.5%), belowground biomass (42.6%), soil microbial biomass (10.4%), fungal biomass (11.0%), and bacterial biomass (9.2%). It was found that eCO2 levels above 200 ppm had a greater impact on plant biomass compared to concentrations at or below 200 ppm. On the other hand, studies showed that positive effects on microbial biomass were more prominent at lower eCO2 levels (≤200 ppm) than at higher levels (>200 ppm), which could be explained by soil nitrogen limitations. Importantly, our results indicated that aboveground biomass was controlled more by climatic and experimental conditions, while soil properties strongly impacted the stimulation of belowground and microbial biomass.

Discussion

Our results provided evidence of the eCO2 fertilization effect across various ecosystem types, experimental methods, and climates, and provided a quantitative estimate of plant and soil microbial biomass sensitivity to eCO2. The results obtained in this study suggest that ecosystem models should consider climatic and edaphic factors to more accurately predict the effects of global climate change and their impact on ecosystem functions.
Involvement of oxytocin receptor deficiency in psychiatric disorders and behavioral abnormalities
Authors: Wei Jinbao , Zheng Huanrui , Li Guokai , Chen Zichun , Fang Gengjing , Yan Jianying
Published: April 2023

Oxytocin and its target receptor (oxytocin receptor, OXTR) exert important roles in the regulation of complex social behaviors and cognition. The oxytocin/OXTR system in the brain could activate and transduce several intracellular signaling pathways to affect neuronal functions or responses and then mediate physiological activities. The persistence and outcome of the oxytocin activity in the brain are closely linked to the regulation, state, and expression of OXTR. Increasing evidence has shown that genetic variations, epigenetic modification states, and the expression of OXTR have been implicated in psychiatric disorders characterized by social deficits, especially in autism. Among these variations and modifications, OXTR gene methylation and polymorphism have been found in many patients with psychiatric disorders and have been considered to be associated with those psychiatric disorders, behavioral abnormalities, and individual differences in response to social stimuli or others. Given the significance of these new findings, in this review, we focus on the progress of OXTR's functions, intrinsic mechanisms, and its correlations with psychiatric disorders or deficits in behaviors. We hope that this review can provide a deep insight into the study of OXTR-involved psychiatric disorders.
Case report: Endovascular coil embolization of an aneurysm at the origin of the accessory middle cerebral artery from the A1 segment as the collateral artery to twigs
Authors: Zhang Lei , Su Han , Yu Jinlu
Published: April 2023

An aneurysm at the origin of the accessory middle cerebral artery (AccMCA) from the A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) as the supplying artery of a twig-like MCA is exceptional. In this study, we reported on such a case and presented a review of the relevant literature. A 56-year-old male suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Digital subtraction angiography confirmed a twig-like MCA and a ruptured aneurysm at the origin of the AccMCA. Endovascular coil embolization of the aneurysm was performed. After the microcatheter was positioned in the aneurysm, soft coils were delivered to complete the embolization. Postoperatively, the patient recovered uneventfully. One month later, the patient returned to his job without any neurological deficits. Postoperative computed tomography at the 3-month follow-up showed that the brain tissue was normal. By reporting our case and reviewing the relevant literature, we found that endovascular coil embolization for such aneurysms at the AccMCA origin is feasible in certain cases.
Clinical value of the systemic immune-inflammation index in moyamoya disease
Authors: Liu Erheng , Liu Chengyuan , Jin Lide , Zhou Hu , Tan Xueyi , Zhang Guibo , Tao Weihua , Gao Xiang , Zhao Heng , Luo Chao , Li Xuehua , Yang Shuaifeng
Published: April 2023

Background

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder with unknown etiology. The underlying pathophysiological mechanism of moyamoya disease remains to be elucidated, but recent studies have increasingly highlighted that abnormal immune response may be a potential trigger for MMD. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) are inflammatory markers that can reflect the immune-inflammation state of the disease.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate SII, NLR, and PLR in patients with moyamoya disease.

Methods

A total of 154 patients with moyamoya disease (MMD group) and 321 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects (control group) were included in this retrospective case–control study. Complete blood count parameters were assayed to calculate the SII, NLR, and PLR values.

Results

The SII, NLR, and PLR values in the moyamoya disease group were significantly higher than those in the control group [754 ± 499 vs. 411 ± 205 (P < 0.001), 2.83 ± 1.98 vs. 1.81 ± 0.72 (P < 0.001), and 152 ± 64 vs. 120 ± 42 (P < 0.001), respectively]. The SII in the medium-moyamoya vessels of moyamoya disease was higher than that in the high-moyamoya vessels and low-moyamoya vessels (P = 0.005). Using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to predict MMD, the highest area under the curve (AUC) was determined for SII (0.76 for SII, 0.69 for NLR, and 0.66 for PLR).

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, patients with moyamoya disease admitted for inpatient care due to acute or chronic stroke have significantly higher SII, NLR, and PLR when compared to blood samples drawn from completely healthy controls in a non-emergent outpatient setting. While the findings may suggest that inflammation plays a role in moyamoya disease, further studies are warranted to corroborate such an association. In the middle stage of moyamoya disease, there may be a more intense imbalance of immune inflammation. Further studies are needed to determine whether the SII index contributes to the diagnosis or serves as a potential marker of an inflammatory response in patients with moyamoya disease.
Feasibility of hemispatial neglect rehabilitation with virtual reality-based visual exploration therapy among patients with stroke: randomised controlled trial
Authors: Shin Joon-Ho , Kim Mingyu , Lee Ji-Yeong , Kim Mi-Young , Jeon Yu-Jin , Kim Kwanguk
Published: April 2023

Background

Hemispatial neglect (HSN) was diagnosed using a virtual reality-based test (FOPR test) that explores the field of perception (FOP) and field of regard (FOR). Here, we developed virtual reality-visual exploration therapy (VR-VET) combining elements from the FOPR test and visual exploration therapy (VET) and examined its efficacy for HSN rehabilitation following stroke.

Methods

Eleven participants were randomly assigned to different groups, training with VR-VET first then waiting without VR-VET training (TW), or vice versa (WT). The TW group completed 20 sessions of a VR-VET program using a head-mounted display followed by 4 weeks of waiting, while the WT group completed the opposite regimen. Clinical HSN measurements [line bisection test (LBT), star cancellation test (SCT), Catherine Bergego Scale (CBS), CBS perceptual-attentional (CBS-PA), and CBS motor-explanatory (CBS-ME)] and FOPR tests [response time (RT), success rate (SR), and head movement (HM) for both FOP and FOR] were assessed by blinded face-to-face assessments.

Results

Five and six participants were allocated to the TW and WT groups, respectively, and no dropout occurred throughout the study. VR-VET considerably improved LBT scores, FOR variables (FOR-RT, FOR-SR), FOP-LEFT variables (FOP-LEFT-RT, FOP-LEFT-SR), and FOR-LEFT variables (FOR-LEFT-RT, FOR-LEFT-SR) compared to waiting without VR-VET. Additionally, VR-VET extensively improved FOP-SR, CBS, and CBS-PA, where waiting failed to make a significant change. The VR-VET made more improvements in the left hemispace than in the right hemispace in FOP-RT, FOP-SR, FOR-RT, and FOR-SR.

Conclusion

The observed improvements in clinical assessments and FOPR tests represent the translatability of these improvements to real-world function and the multi-dimensional effects of VR-VET training.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03463122, identifier NCT03463122.