bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SBAS-InSAR-Based Analysis of Surface Deformation in the Eastern Tianshan Mountains, China
Authors: Du Qingsong , Li Guoyu , Chen Dun , Zhou Yu , Qi Shunshun , Wu Gang , Chai Mingtang , Tang Liyun , Jia Hailiang , Peng Wanlin
Published: November 2021

Due to the unique geographical characteristics of cold alpine and high-altitude regions, glaciers, permafrost, ground ice, rock glaciers, and other periglacial geomorphology have developed with fragile habitats, and these areas are often the birthplaces of many river basins and natural hazards. With global warming and the extensive cryogenesis and physical weathering, the thermal state of permafrost and the mass balance of glaciers have been changed, and thus it can be deduced that the surface deformation is of great concern. To obtain ground subsidence or uplift over a large area to understand local surface changes, the small baseline subset interferometric synthetic aperture radar (SBAS-InSAR) technique was applied to process 89-scene of Sentinel-1A images ranging from December 25, 2017 to January 2, 2021 to obtain surface deformation for these 3 years for the eastern Tianshan Mountains, China. The surface deformation characteristics of the area were analyzed to provide a basic dataset for environmental protection policies and mitigation or reduction of natural hazards in this region, and to verify the applicability of SBAS-InSAR technology in alpine and high-altitude areas. The results show that the SBAS-InSAR technique processing with sentinel-1A dataset cannot be effectively used to acquire ground deformation in areas covered by trees, scrub/shrub, glaciers, snow, and ground ice, where the decohered phenomenon is serious. In other regions, SBAS-InSAR can effectively measure surface subsidence or uplift. Surface deformation is significant throughout the study area, with rates ranging from −70.7 to 50.8 mm/a and with an average rate of 1.1 mm/a. There are obvious regions of uplift in the northwest, northeast, and central sections of the study area, with uplift greater than 155.73 mm in 3 years, and three obvious regions of subsidence in the northeast and west sections of the study area, with subsidence of at least −125.20 mm in 3 years. The remaining areas of deformation are scattered, with smaller amounts of settlement and uplift and with an isolated and sporadic distribution. Areas with elevations of 3,150 to 4,275 m.a.s.l., slopes of 15°–50°, and southwest, west, and northwest aspects are geologic disaster-prone regions and should receive more attention and more field monitoring. The results of this study have important implications for local environmental protection and hazard prevention.
The Role of Ki67 in Evaluating Neoadjuvant Endocrine Therapy of Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Ailin , Wang Xiaojing , Fan Chuifeng , Mao Xiaoyun
Published: November 2021

Ki67 is a proliferation marker. It has been proposed as a useful clinical marker for breast cancer subtype classification, prognosis, and prediction of therapeutic response. But the questionable analytical validity of Ki67 prevents its widespread adoption of these measures for treatment decisions in breast cancer. Currently, Ki67 has been tested as a predictive marker for chemotherapy using clinical and pathological response as endpoints in neoadjuvant endocrine therapy. Ki67 can be used as a predictor to evaluate the recurrence-free survival rate of patients, or its change can be used to predict the preoperative “window of opportunity” in neoadjuvant endocrine therapy. In this review, we will elaborate on the role of Ki67 in neoadjuvant endocrine therapy in breast cancer.
Animal Toxicology Studies on the Male Reproductive Effects of 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin: Data Analysis and Health Effects Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Tongtong , Zhou Xiang , Ren Xiaohan , Zhang Xu , Wu Jiajin , Wang Shangqian , Wang Zengjun
Published: November 2021

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a well-known environmental poison that exist in the environment for many years. However, its effect on the male reproductive system has not been clearly stated. We conducted a meta-analysis of the effect of TCDD on the male reproductive system of rodents about TCDD. Results showed that that TCDD exposure reduced the testis weight (weighted mean difference [WMD]: −0.035, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.046 to −0.025), sperm count (WMD: −35, 95% CI: −42.980 to −27.019), and blood testosterone concentration (WMD: −0.171, 95% CI: −0.269 to −0.073). According to our research results, TCDD can cause damage to the male reproductive system of rodents through direct or indirect exposure. In order to further explore the potential hazards of TCDD to humans, more human-related research needs to be carried out.
A Group Intervention for Individuals With Obesity and Comorbid Binge Eating Disorder: Results From a Feasibility Study
Authors: Eik-Nes Trine T. , Vrabel KariAnne , Raman Jayanthi , Clark Melinda Rose , Berg Kjersti Hognes
Published: November 2021

Purpose

A common challenge among a subgroup of individuals with obesity is binge eating, that exists on a continuum from mild binge eating episodes to severe binge eating disorder (BED). BED is common among bariatric patients and the prevalence of disordered eating and ED in bariatric surgery populations is well known. Conventional treatments and assessment of obesity seldom address the underlying psychological mechanisms of binge eating and subsequent obesity. This study, titled PnP (People need People) is a psychoeducational group pilot intervention for individuals with BED and obesity including patients with previous bariatric surgery. Design, feasibility, and a broad description of the study population is reported.

Material and Methods

A total of 42 patients were from an obesity clinic referred to assessment and treatment with PnP in a psychoeducational group setting (3-hour weekly meetings for 10 weeks). Of these, 6 (14.3%) patients had a previous history of bariatric surgery. Feasibility was assessed by tracking attendance, potentially adverse effects and outcome measures including body mass index (BMI), eating disorder pathology, overvaluation of shape and weight, impairment, self-reported childhood difficulties, alexithymia, internalized shame as well as health related quality of life (HRQoL).

Results

All 42 patients completed the intervention, with no adverse effects and a high attendance rate with a median attendance of 10 sessions, 95% CI (8.9,9.6) and 0% attrition. Extent of psychosocial impairment due to eating disorder pathology, body dissatisfaction and severity of ED symptoms were high among the patients at baseline. Additionally, self-reported childhood difficulties, alexithymia, and internalized shame were high among the patients and indicate a need to address underlying psychological mechanisms in individuals with BED and comorbid obesity. Improvement of HRQoL and reduction of binge eating between baseline and the end of the intervention was observed with a medium effect

Conclusion

This feasibility study supports PnP as a potential group psychoeducational intervention for patients living with BED and comorbid obesity. Assessments of BED and delivery of this intervention may optimize selection of candidates and bariatric outcomes. These preliminary results warrant further investigation via a randomized control trial (RCT) to examine the efficacy and effectiveness of PnP.
The Development of Nomograms to Predict Blastulation Rate Following Cycles of In Vitro Fertilization in Patients With Tubal Factor Infertility, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or Endometriosis
Authors: Jin Haixia , Shen Xiaoxue , Song Wenyan , Liu Yan , Qi Lin , Zhang Fuli
Published: November 2021

It is well known that the transfer of embryos at the blastocyst stage is superior to the transfer of embryos at the cleavage stage in many respects. However, the rate of blastocyst formation remains low in clinical practice. To reduce the possibility of wasting embryos and to accurately predict the possibility of blastocyst formation, we constructed a nomogram based on range of clinical characteristics to predict blastocyst formation rates in patients with different types of infertility. We divided patients into three groups based on female etiology: a tubal factor group, a polycystic ovary syndrome group, and an endometriosis group. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between patient characteristics and blastocyst formation. Each group of patients was divided into a training set and a validation set. The training set was used to construct the nomogram, while the validation set was used to test the performance of the model by using discrimination and calibration. The area under the curve (AUC) for the three groups indicated that the models performed fairly and that calibration was acceptable in each model.
Glycosylated Hemoglobin as an Age-Specific Predictor and Risk Marker of Colorectal Adenomas in Non-Diabetic Adults
Authors: Yu Xinyan , Chen Chen , Song Xiaoxiao , Guo Yi , Tong Yuling , Zhao Yi , Song Zhenya
Published: November 2021

Background

Diabetes is a risk factor for colorectal neoplasms. The association between the level of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and the risk of colorectal adenomas (CRAs) in non-diabetic adults needs to be investigated.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed on non-diabetic adults with normal HbA1c level who underwent colonoscopy between January 2010 and December 2016 during health check-ups in our hospital in China. The association between HbA1c level and CRAs was assessed by multiple logistic regression models stratified by age group (<40, ≥40 and <50, and ≥50 years old). The age group-specified thresholds for HbA1c on elevated risk of CRAs were estimated using the piecewise logistic regression.

Results

Among the 2,764 subjects, 445 (16.1%) had CRA. The prevalence of CRA varied across the three age groups. A higher HbA1c level was found to be significantly associated with increased CRA risk in the 40–50 years group (odds ratio [OR]=1.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–2.78, p=0.035) after adjusting for other related factors, while this association was borderline significant among the 50 years and older group (OR=1.57, 95% CI 0.97–2.54, p=0.067). Based on the piecewise logistic regression analysis results, the thresholds for HbA1c on elevated risk of CRA were 5.44% for the 40–50 years group and 4.81% for the 50 years and older group, respectively.

Conclusions

Higher levels of HbA1c, even within the normal range, were associated with elevated CRA risk among non-diabetic adults. The threshold effects of HbA1c on the risk of CRA varied across different age groups, and early screening colonoscopy might be needed for individuals in their 40s and with HbA1c levels ≥5.44%.
An Ultra-High Temperature Stable Solar Absorber Using the ZrC-Based Cermets
Authors: Wang Jian , Wu Zuoxu , Liu Yijie , Hou Shuaihang , Ren Zhikun , Luo Yi , Liu Xingjun , Mao Jun , Zhang Qian , Cao Feng
Published: November 2021

Exploring the spectrally selective absorbers with high optical performance and excellent thermal stability is crucial to improve the conversion efficiency of solar energy to electricity in concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. However, there are limited reports on the selective solar absorbers utilized at 900oC or above. Herein, we developed a selective absorption coating based on the ultra-high temperature ceramic ZrC and the quasi-optical microcavity (QOM) optical structure, and experimentally achieved the absorber via depositing an all-ceramic multilayer films on a stainless steel substrate by magnetron sputtering. The prepared multi-layer selective absorber demonstrates an excellent high solar absorptance of ∼0.964 due to the multi absorptance mechanisms in the QOM, and a relatively low thermal emittance of ∼0.16 (82°C). Moreover, the coating can survive at 900oC in vacuum for 100 h with a superior spectral selectivity of 0.96/0.143 (82°C) upon annealing, resulting from the introduction of ultra-high temperature ceramic ZrC in the QOM structure. Under the conditions of a stable operating temperature of 900°C and a concentration ratio of 1,000 suns, the calculated ideal conversion efficiency using this absorber can reach around 68%, exceeding most solar selective absorbers in previous reports.
Metabolic Fuel for Epigenetic: Nuclear Production Meets Local Consumption
Authors: Boon Ruben
Published: November 2021

Epigenetic modifications are responsible for finetuning gene expression profiles to the needs of cells, tissues, and organisms. To rapidly respond to environmental changes, the activity of chromatin modifiers critically depends on the concentration of a handful of metabolites that act as substrates and co-factors. In this way, these enzymes act as metabolic sensors that directly link gene expression to metabolic states. Although metabolites can easily diffuse through the nuclear pore, molecular mechanisms must be in place to regulate epigenetic marker deposition in specific nuclear subdomains or even on single loci. In this review, I explore the possible subcellular sites of metabolite production that influence the epigenome. From the relationship between cytoplasmic metabolism and nuclear metabolite deposition, I converse to the description of a compartmentalized nuclear metabolism. Last, I elaborate on the possibility of metabolic enzymes to operate in phase-separated nuclear microdomains formed by multienzyme and chromatin-bound protein complexes.
Intestinal CD11b+ B Cells Ameliorate Colitis by Secreting Immunoglobulin A
Authors: Fu Ying , Wang Zhiming , Yu Baichao , Lin Yuli , Huang Enyu , Liu Ronghua , Zhao Chujun , Lu Mingfang , Xu Wei , Liu Hongchun , Liu Yongzhong , Wang Luman , Chu Yiwei
Published: November 2021

The intestinal mucosal immune environment requires multiple immune cells to maintain homeostasis. Although intestinal B cells are among the most important immune cells, little is known about the mechanism that they employ to regulate immune homeostasis. In this study, we found that CD11b+B cells significantly accumulated in the gut lamina propria and Peyer’s patches in dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis mouse models and patients with ulcerative colitis. Adoptive transfer of CD11b+B cells, but not CD11b−/−B cells, effectively ameliorated colitis and exhibited therapeutic effects. Furthermore, CD11b+B cells were found to produce higher levels of IgA than CD11b−B cells. CD11b deficiency in B cells dampened IgA production, resulting in the loss of their ability to ameliorate colitis. Mechanistically, CD11b+B cells expressed abundant TGF-β and TGF-β receptor II, as well as highly activate phosphorylated Smad2/3 signaling pathway, consequently promoting the class switch to IgA. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that CD11b+B cells are essential intestinal suppressive immune cells and the primary source of intestinal IgA, which plays an indispensable role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis.
The Roles of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 and 4 in Pneumococcal Nasal Colonization and Subsequent Development of Invasive Disease
Authors: Kono Masamitsu , Nanushaj Denisa , Sakatani Hideki , Murakami Daichi , Hijiya Masayoshi , Kinoshita Tetsuya , Shiga Tatsuya , Kaneko Fumie , Enomoto Keisuke , Sugita Gen , Miyajima Masayasu , Okada Yuka , Saika Shizuya , Hotomi Muneki
Published: November 2021

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, neuronal stimulations widely known to be associated with thermal responses, pain induction, and osmoregulation, have been shown in recent studies to have underlying mechanisms associated with inflammatory responses. The role of TRP channels on inflammatory milieu during bacterial infections has been widely demonstrated. It may vary among types of channels/pathogens, however, and it is not known how TRP channels function during pneumococcal infections. Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause severe infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis, with systemic inflammatory responses. This study examines the role of TRP channels (TRPV1 and TRPV4) for pneumococcal nasal colonization and subsequent development of invasive pneumococcal disease in a mouse model. Both TRPV1 and TRPV4 channels were shown to be related to regulation of the development of pneumococcal diseases. In particular, the influx of neutrophils (polymorphonuclear cells) in the nasal cavity and the bactericidal activity were significantly suppressed among TRPV4 knockout mice. This may lead to severe pneumococcal pneumonia, resulting in dissemination of the bacteria to various organs and causing high mortality during influenza virus coinfection. Regulating host immune responses by TRP channels could be a novel strategy against pathogenic microorganisms causing strong local/systemic inflammation.
Implication of SARS-CoV-2 Immune Escape Spike Variants on Secondary and Vaccine Breakthrough Infections
Authors: Ahmad Liyana
Published: November 2021

COVID-19 pandemic remains an on-going global health and economic threat that has amassed millions of deaths. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the etiological agent of this disease and is constantly under evolutionary pressures that drive the modification of its genome which may represent a threat to the efficacy of current COVID-19 vaccines available. This article highlights the pressures that facilitate the rise of new SARS-CoV-2 variants and the key mutations of the viral spike protein – L452R, E484K, N501Y and D614G– that promote immune escape mechanism and warrant a cautionary point for clinical and public health responses in terms of re-infection, vaccine breakthrough infection and therapeutic values.
Generation of an NFκB-Driven Alpharetroviral “All-in-One” Vector Construct as a Potent Tool for CAR NK Cell Therapy
Authors: Rudek Loreen Sophie , Zimmermann Katharina , Galla Melanie , Meyer Johann , Kuehle Johannes , Stamopoulou Andriana , Brand Daniel , Sandalcioglu I. Erol , Neyazi Belal , Moritz Thomas , Rossig Claudia , Altvater Bianca , Falk Christine S. , Abken Hinrich , Morgan Michael Alexander , Schambach Axel
Published: November 2021

Immune cell therapeutics are increasingly applied in oncology. Especially chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells are successfully used to treat several B cell malignancies. Efforts to engineer CAR T cells for improved activity against solid tumors include co-delivery of pro-inflammatory cytokines in addition to CARs, via either constitutive cytokine expression or inducible cytokine expression triggered by CAR recognition of its target antigen—so-called “T cells redirected for universal cytokine-mediated killing” (TRUCKs) or fourth-generation CARs. Here, we tested the hypothesis that TRUCK principles could be expanded to improve anticancer functions of NK cells. A comparison of the functionality of inducible promoters responsive to NFAT or NFκB in NK cells showed that, in contrast to T cells, the inclusion of NFκB-responsive elements within the inducible promoter construct was essential for CAR-inducible expression of the transgene. We demonstrated that GD2CAR-specific activation induced a tight NFκB-promoter-driven cytokine release in NK-92 and primary NK cells together with an enhanced cytotoxic capacity against GD2+ target cells, also shown by increased secretion of cytolytic cytokines. The data demonstrate biologically relevant differences between T and NK cells that are important when clinically translating the TRUCK concept to NK cells for the treatment of solid malignancies.
Respiratory and Intramuscular Immunization With ChAdOx2-NPM1-NA Induces Distinct Immune Responses in H1N1pdm09 Pre-Exposed Pigs
Authors: Vatzia Eleni , Allen Elizabeth R. , Manjegowda Tanuja , Morris Susan , McNee Adam , Martini Veronica , Kaliath Reshma , Ulaszewska Marta , Boyd Amy , Paudyal Basudev , Carr Veronica B. , Chrun Tiphany , Maze Emmanuel , MacLoughlin Ronan , van Diemen Pauline M. , Everett Helen E. , Lambe Teresa , Gilbert Sarah C. , Tchilian Elma
Published: November 2021

There is a critical need to develop superior influenza vaccines that provide broader protection. Influenza vaccines are traditionally tested in naive animals, although humans are exposed to influenza in the first years of their lives, but the impact of prior influenza exposure on vaccine immune responses has not been well studied. Pigs are an important natural host for influenza, are a source of pandemic viruses, and are an excellent model for human influenza. Here, we investigated the immunogenicity of the ChAdOx2 viral vectored vaccine, expressing influenza nucleoprotein, matrix protein 1, and neuraminidase in H1N1pdm09 pre-exposed pigs. We evaluated the importance of the route of administration by comparing intranasal, aerosol, and intramuscular immunizations. Aerosol delivery boosted the local lung T-cell and antibody responses, while intramuscular immunization boosted peripheral blood immunity. These results will inform how best to deliver vaccines in order to harness optimal protective immunity.
Noninvasive Immuno-PET Imaging of CD8+ T Cell Behavior in Influenza A Virus-Infected Mice
Authors: Rothlauf Paul W. , Li Zeyang , Pishesha Novalia , Xie Yushu Joy , Woodham Andrew W. , Bousbaine Djenet , Kolifrath Stephen C. , Verschoor Vincent L. , Ploegh Hidde L.
Published: November 2021

Immuno-positron emission tomography (immuno-PET) is a noninvasive imaging method that enables tracking of immune cells in living animals. We used a nanobody that recognizes mouse CD8α and labeled it with 89Zr to image mouse CD8+ T cells in the course of an infection with influenza A virus (IAV). The CD8+ signal showed a strong increase in the mediastinal lymph node (MLN) and thymus as early as 4 days post-infection (dpi), and as early as 6 dpi in the lungs. Over the course of the infection, CD8+ T cells were at first distributed diffusely throughout the lungs and then accumulated more selectively in specific regions of the lungs. These distributions correlated with morbidity as mice reached the peak of weight loss over this interval. CD8+ T cells obtained from control or IAV-infected mice showed a difference in their distribution and migration when comparing their fate upon labeling ex vivo with 89Zr-labeled anti-CD8α nanobody and transfer into infected versus control animals. CD8+ T cells from infected mice, upon transfer, appear to be trained to persist in the lungs, even of uninfected mice. Immuno-PET imaging thus allows noninvasive, dynamic monitoring of the immune response to infectious agents in living animals.
DNA Barcoding Diatoms From China With Multiple Genes
Authors: Zou Shanmei , Bao Yachao , Wu Xuemin , Wang Changhai
Published: November 2021

Diatoms play a key role in water quality assessments and algae bloom. However, taxonomic confusion often exists for diatoms, and morphological characters are extremely diverse for species identification. DNA barcoding with multiple genetic markers can contribute much to diatom diversity investigation. In this study, we employed sequences of four genetic markers (COI, rbcL, SSU, and LSU) to discriminate diatom strains from both marine and freshwater environments of China, by tree, distance, and character-based barcoding methods. The available published diatom sequences were also incorporated into our new sequences. A total of 93 rbcL, 81 COI, 83 SSU, and 75 LSU sequences of diatom samples were obtained in this study. The multiple genetic markers discriminated most species clearly. The identification of species by micrographic observation was generally consistent with the DNA barcoding analysis except that some potential cryptic species were revealed by DNA barcoding. The COI, rbcL, and LSU sequences all showed high taxonomic resolution at the species level by phylogenetic and character-based analysis. Some potential identification errors in public diatom sequences were also found. The phylogenetic and character-based analysis revealed consistent species identification and showed clearer species discrimination than the distance-based method. In conclusion, our study evaluated the efficiency of four genetic markers in barcoding 11 genera within Bacillariophyta isolated from China and complemented many diatom reference sequences to public databases.
State-of-the-Art Irradiation Technology for Polymeric Hydrogel Fabrication and Application in Drug Release System
Authors: Raza Muhammad Asim , Jeong Jin-Oh , Park Sang Hyun
Published: November 2021

Chronic and debilitating diseases can be marginally cured by anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibiotic drugs, there is still need for more efficacious delivery approaches. Biodegradable and biocompatible polymeric hydrogels are essential requirements for drug release systems due to sustained or targeted drug delivery. Irradiation crosslinking of polymers is considered a safe route for the fabrication of hydrogels because crosslinking takes place without addition of unnecessary toxic reagents such as initiators or crosslinkers. This technology is a useful way to induce sterilization and crosslinking in a single step. Several natural and synthetic polymers in different combinations are crosslinked through high energy ionizing radiation such as electron beam and gamma ray irradiation. Polymeric hydrogels prepared using these techniques exhibit good gel fraction, swelling ratio, and mechanical properties. In addition, hydrogels possess drug loading and release characteristics, antimicrobial characteristics, and in-vivo/in-vitro cytocompatibility. The advantage of biodegradable and biocompatible drug release systems is the controlled release of drugs without deleterious effects on targeted sites. This mini review about irradiation crosslinked hydrogels will provide sufficient guidelines for new researchers to proceed further in this field.
Ocular Biometry of Primary Angle-Closure Disease in Younger Patients
Authors: Lin Shufen , Zuo Chengguo , Liu Yuan , Xiao Hui , Fang Lei , Su Yihua , Chen Liming , Lin Mingkai , Ling Yunlan , Liu Xing
Published: November 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze the ocular biometric parameters of primary angle-closure disease (PACD) in younger patients and compare them with those of elderly patients.

Methods: This clinic-based, cross-sectional study included 154 eyes of 154 patients with PACD, consisting of 77 eyes of patients aged 40 years or younger and 77 eyes of patients older than 40. The PACD case definition was compatible with the ISGEO definition. Anterior segment parameters were measured by ultrasound biomicroscopy, axial length (AL) and lens thickness (LT) were measured by A-scan ultrasonography measurements, and the thickness of the retina and choroid were measured by optical coherence tomography. The differences in ocular biometric parameters between different age groups were compared by independent sample t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests, and the correlation between the parameters and age was analyzed.

Results: Compared to older PACD patients, the lens vault(LV),LV/LT and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) of younger patients were larger, while the peripheral and mean iris thickness (IT), trabecular-ciliary angle (TCA), ciliary body thickness (CBT), AL and LT were smaller (all P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber width, pupil diameter, angle opening distance at 500 μm from the scleral spur, anterior chamber angle and iris convexity between the two groups (all P > 0.05). AL, LT, IT, TCA and CBT were positively associated with age (all P < 0.001), while LV and SFCT were negatively associated with age (P = 0.027 and P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions: Compared with elderly patients, younger PACD patients had more anteriorly positioned lenses, thinner and more anteriorly rotated ciliary bodies, thicker choroids, and shorter axial length. These characteristics might be important anatomical bases for the earlier onset of PACD and the higher risk of malignant glaucoma after filtering surgery.
Dynamics of Bacterial Community and Fermentation Quality in Leymus chinensis Silage Treated With Lactic Acid Bacteria and/or Water
Authors: Xu Haiwen , Sun Lin , Na Na , Wang Chao , Yin Guomei , Liu Sibo , Xue Yanlin
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to reveal the bacterial community and fermentation quality of Leymus chinensis silage during the fermentation process. L. chinensis was harvested at the heading stage, and ensiled with lactic acid bacteria (LAB, L), water (W), or a combination of both (LW) in vacuum-sealed plastic bags. As a control silage, untreated L. chinensis silage was also assessed. The samples were taken at 0, 5, 15, 35, and 60 days after ensiling. The bacterial community structure was assessed by plate cultivation and Illumina sequencing, and the fermentation parameters were also analyzed. Fresh L. chinensis contained low moisture (509 g/kg) and LAB (3.64 log colony-forming units/g fresh weight). Control silage displayed higher pH and lower lactic acid (LA) than other treatments during ensilage (p < 0.05); moreover, LW-treatment had lower pH from 5 to 35 days and greater LA at 5 days than L- and W-treatments (p < 0.05). During the fermentation process, Lactobacillus in L- and LW-treatments was the most dominant bacterial genus (>97%), had higher abundance than that in control silage and W-treatment (p < 0.05), and correlated negatively with other main genera and pH, and positively with LA and acetic acid (p < 0.05). Moreover, Lactobacillus had considerable abundance in W-treatment from 5 to 15 days (81.38–85.86%). Enterobacteriaceae had the most abundance among bacteria in control silage during ensiling (49.31–69.34%), and in W-treatment from 35 to 60 days (47.49–54.15%). The L-, W-, and LW-treatments displayed the aggregated bacterial community at 5 and 15 days, with W-treatment diverging from L- and LW-treatments at 35 and 60 days. Overall, the low moisture and/or insufficient LAB in fresh L. chinensis led to Enterobacteriaceae dominating bacterial community and contributing to the high pH and low LA in control silage during the fermentation process. Applying L, W, or LW contributed to Lactobacillus succession, LA production, and pH reduction during early stage of fermentation; moreover, treating with L and LW displayed more efficiency. Lactobacillus dominated the entire ensilage process in L- and LW-treatments and the early stage of fermentation in W-treatment, and contributed to the satisfactory fermentation quality of L. chinensis silage. The L- and LW-treatments displayed a similar pattern of bacterial succession during ensiling.
Hookworm Infections and Sociodemographic Factors Associated With Female Reproductive Tract Infections in Rural Areas of the Central Region of Togo
Authors: Holali Ameyapoh Adjoa , Katawa Gnatoulma , Ritter Manuel , Tchopba Christèle Nguepou , Tchadié Pélagie Edlom , Arndts Kathrin , Kamassa Hélène E. , Mazou Bassimtou , Amessoudji Oukoe M. , N’djao Akawulu , Agoro Sibabe , Vogelbusch Celina , Omondi Millicent A. , Kolou Malewe , Karou Simplice D. , Horsnell William , Hoerauf Achim , Ameyapoh Yaovi , Layland Laura E.
Published: November 2021

Female reproductive tract infections (FRTIs) have a huge impact on women’s health including their reproductive health in rural areas. Immunomodulation by helminth infections could influence the occurrence of FRTIs. This study aimed to investigate the association between FRTIs, hookworm infections, and sociodemographic factors in six rural areas of the central region of Togo. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographical information, and parasitological assessments were used to diagnose helminth infections. Moreover, cytobacteriological examination of vaginal swabs was performed for the diagnosis of candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis (BV), and real-time PCR method was used to determine sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Finally, a logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship and association of these factors to FRTIs. The prevalence of FRTIs was 82.3% including STIs (74.38%), BV (31.79%), and vulvovaginal candidiasis (9.85%). In detail, FRTIs were caused by bacteria such as Ureaplasma parvum (50%), Ureaplasma urealyticum (26.5%), and Mycoplasma hominis (17.5%) and viruses such us cytomegalovirus (5%) and human papilloma virus (HPV) (20%). No cases of Haemophilus ducreyi, Treponema pallidum, or varicella-zoster virus (VZV) were observed. Interestingly, women who had hookworm infections were at high risk of HPV. The use of condoms was a protective factor [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.23; 95% CI [0.11–0.51)], while the use of contraceptive methods was a risk factor [aOR = 2.49; 95% CI (1.19–5.19)] for STIs. The risk of BV was lower among participants who had more than four pregnancies [aOR = 0.27; 95% CI (0.11–0.65)]. Furthermore, women who had ever been paid for sexual intercourse were at high probability risk of vulvovaginal candidiasis [aOR = 16.92; 95% CI (1.46–196.48)]. This study highlighted risk factors associated with FRTIs, the control of which would help to reduce the incidence of these diseases. Health-care professionals could develop education and sensitization strategies based on these risk factors, and anti-hookworm treatment concepts may be taken into consideration to minimize the risk of HPV infections.
Two New Dihydrosphingosine Analogs Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Affect gltA1, lprQ, and rpsO Expression
Authors: Peñuelas-Urquides Katia , Bermúdez de León Mario , Silva-Ramírez Beatriz , Castorena-Torres Fabiola , Molina-Salinas Gloria María , Castro-Garza Jorge , Becerril-Montes Pola , del Olmo Esther , San Feliciano Arturo , González-Escalante Laura Adiene , Villarreal-Treviño Licet , Said-Fernández Salvador
Published: November 2021

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains threaten the control of tuberculosis. New antitubercular dihydrosphingosine analogs, named UCIs, have been evaluated in preclinical studies but their cellular and molecular mechanisms of action against M. tuberculosis are still unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of UCI exposure on gene expression of drug-sensitive H37Rv and MDR CIBIN:UMF:15:99 clones of M. tuberculosis which were isolated, phenotypically, and genetically characterized, cultured to log phase and treated with UCI compounds; followed by total RNA isolation, reverse transcription and hybridization assays on Affymetrix genomic microarrays. Data were validated with RT-qPCR assays. As results, UCI-05 and UCI-14 exposure increased gltA1 expression in drug-sensitive H37Rv clones. Furthermore, UCI-05 increased lprQ expression in MDR CIBIN:UMF:15:99 M. tuberculosis clones while UCI-14 reduced the expression of this gene in drug-sensitive H37Rv clones. In addition, UCI-05 reduced rpsO expression in drug-sensitive H37Rv clones. We found gene expression alterations that suggest these molecules may alter carbon and lipid metabolism as well as interfere in the protein-producing machinery in M. tuberculosis.
Contrasting Effects of Environmental Concentrations of Sulfonamides on Microbial Heterotrophic Activities in Freshwater Sediments
Authors: Pesce Stéphane , Kergoat Laura , Paris Laurianne , Billet Loren , Besse-Hoggan Pascale , Bonnineau Chloé
Published: November 2021

The sulfonamide antibiotics sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and sulfamethazine (SMZ) are regularly detected in surface sediments of contaminated hydrosystems, with maximum concentrations that can reach tens of μg kg–1 in stream and river sediments. Little is known about the resulting effects on the exposed benthic organisms. Here we investigated the functional response of stream sediment microbial communities exposed for 4 weeks to two levels of environmentally relevant concentrations of SMX and SMZ, tested individually. To this end, we developed a laboratory channel experiment where natural stream sediments were immersed in water contaminated with nominal environmental concentrations of 500 and 5,000 ng L–1 of SMX or SMZ, causing their accumulation in surface sediments. The mean maximum concentrations measured in the sediment (about 2.1 μg SMX kg–1 dw and 4.5 μg SMZ kg–1 dw) were consistent with those reported in contaminated rivers. The resulting chronic exposure had various effects on the functional potential of the sediment microbial communities, according to the substance (SMX or SMZ), the type of treatment (high or low) and the measured activity, with a strong influence of temporal dynamics. Whereas the SMZ treatments resulted in only transient effects on the five microbial activities investigated, we observed a significant stimulation of the β-glucosidase activity over the 28 days in the communities exposed to the high concentration of SMX. Together with the stimulation of aerobic respiration at low SMX concentrations and the reduced concentration observed in the last days, our results suggest a potential biodegradation of sulfonamides by microbial communities from sediments. Given the key functional role of surface sediment microbial communities in streams and rivers, our findings suggest that the frequently reported contamination of sediments by sulfonamides is likely to affect biogeochemical cycles, with possible impact on ecosystem functioning.
The Activity of Native Vacuolar Proton-ATPase in an Oscillating Electric Field – Demystifying an Apparent Effect of Music on a Biomolecule
Authors: Petrovszki Pál , Sebők-Nagy Krisztina , Páli Tibor
Published: November 2021

The effect of an oscillating electric field generated from music on yeast vacuolar proton-ATPase (V-ATPase) activity in its native environment is reported. An oscillating electric field is generated by electrodes that are immersed into a dispersion of yeast vacuolar membrane vesicles natively hosting a high concentration of active V-ATPase. The substantial difference in the ATP hydrolysing activity of V-ATPase under the most stimulating and inhibiting music is unprecedented. Since the topic, i.e., an effect of music on biomolecules, is very attractive for non-scientific, esoteric mystification, we provide a rational explanation for the observed new phenomenon. Good correlation is found between changes in the specific activity of the enzyme and the combined intensity of certain frequency bands of the Fourier spectra of the music clips. Most prominent identified frequencies are harmonically related to each other and to the estimated rotation rate of the enzyme. These results lead to the conclusion that the oscillating electric field interferes with periodic trans-membrane charge motions in the working enzyme.
Identification and Characterization of Thermostable Y-Family DNA Polymerases η, ι, κ and Rev1 From a Lower Eukaryote, Thermomyces lanuginosus
Authors: Vaisman Alexandra , McDonald John P. , Smith Mallory R. , Aspelund Sender L. , Evans Thomas C. , Woodgate Roger
Published: November 2021

Y-family DNA polymerases (pols) consist of six phylogenetically separate subfamilies; two UmuC (polV) branches, DinB (pol IV, Dpo4, polκ), Rad30A/POLH (polη), and Rad30B/POLI (polι) and Rev1. Of these subfamilies, DinB orthologs are found in all three domains of life; eubacteria, archaea, and eukarya. UmuC orthologs are identified only in bacteria, whilst Rev1 and Rad30A/B orthologs are only detected in eukaryotes. Within eukaryotes, a wide array of evolutionary diversity exists. Humans possess all four Y-family pols (pols η, ι, κ, and Rev1), Schizosaccharomyces pombe has three Y-family pols (pols η, κ, and Rev1), and Saccharomyces cerevisiae only has polη and Rev1. Here, we report the cloning, expression, and biochemical characterization of the four Y-family pols from the lower eukaryotic thermophilic fungi, Thermomyces lanuginosus. Apart from the expected increased thermostability of the T. lanuginosus Y-family pols, their major biochemical properties are very similar to properties of their human counterparts. In particular, both Rad30B homologs (T. lanuginosus and human polɩ) exhibit remarkably low fidelity during DNA synthesis that is template sequence dependent. It was previously hypothesized that higher organisms had acquired this property during eukaryotic evolution, but these observations imply that polι originated earlier than previously known, suggesting a critical cellular function in both lower and higher eukaryotes.
Advanced Technologies for Local Neural Circuits in the Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Endo Masaaki , Maruoka Hisato , Okabe Shigeo
Published: November 2021

The neural network in the brain can be viewed as an integrated system assembled from a large number of local neural circuits specialized for particular brain functions. Activities of neurons in local neural circuits are thought to be organized both spatially and temporally under the rules optimized for their roles in information processing. It is well perceived that different areas of the mammalian neocortex have specific cognitive functions and distinct computational properties. However, the organizational principles of the local neural circuits in different cortical regions have not yet been clarified. Therefore, new research principles and related neuro-technologies that enable efficient and precise recording of large-scale neuronal activities and synaptic connections are necessary. Innovative technologies for structural analysis, including tissue clearing and expansion microscopy, have enabled super resolution imaging of the neural circuits containing thousands of neurons at a single synapse resolution. The imaging resolution and volume achieved by new technologies are beyond the limits of conventional light or electron microscopic methods. Progress in genome editing and related technologies has made it possible to label and manipulate specific cell types and discriminate activities of multiple cell types. These technologies will provide a breakthrough for multiscale analysis of the structure and function of local neural circuits. This review summarizes the basic concepts and practical applications of the emerging technologies and new insight into local neural circuits obtained by these technologies.
Differential Expression Patterns of Lynx Proteins and Involvement of Lynx1 in Prepulse Inhibition
Authors: Sherafat Yasmine , Chen Edison , Lallai Valeria , Bautista Malia , Fowler James P. , Chen Yen-Chu , Miwa Julie , Fowler Christie D.
Published: November 2021

Negative allosteric modulators, such as lynx1 and lynx2, directly interact with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). The nAChRs are integral to cholinergic signaling in the brain and have been shown to mediate different aspects of cognitive function. Given the interaction between lynx proteins and these receptors, we examined whether these endogenous negative allosteric modulators are involved in cognitive behaviors associated with cholinergic function. We found both cell-specific and overlapping expression patterns of lynx1 and lynx2 mRNA in brain regions associated with cognition, learning, memory, and sensorimotor processing, including the prefrontal cortex (PFC), cingulate cortex, septum, hippocampus, amygdala, striatum, and pontine nuclei. Since lynx proteins are thought to play a role in conditioned associations and given the expression patterns across brain regions, we first assessed whether lynx knockout mice would differ in a cognitive flexibility task. We found no deficits in reversal learning in either the lynx1–/–or lynx2–/–knockout mice. Thereafter, sensorimotor gating was examined with the prepulse inhibition (PPI) assessment. Interestingly, we found that both male and female lynx1–/–mice exhibited a deficit in the PPI behavioral response. Given the comparable expression of lynx2 in regions involved in sensorimotor gating, we then examined whether removal of the lynx2 protein would lead to similar behavioral effects. Unexpectedly, we found that while male lynx2–/–mice exhibited a decrease in the baseline startle response, no differences were found in sensorimotor gating for either male or female lynx2–/–mice. Taken together, these studies provide insight into the expression patterns of lynx1 and lynx2 across multiple brain regions and illustrate the modulatory effects of the lynx1 protein in sensorimotor gating.
Manipulating Memory Associations Minimizes Avoidance Behavior
Authors: Wang Jianqin , Smeets Tom , Otgaar Henry , Howe Mark L.
Published: November 2021

Memories of the past can guide humans to avoid harm. The logical consequence of this is if memories are changed, avoidance behavior should be affected. More than 80 years of false memory research has shown that people’s memory can be re-constructed or distorted by receiving suggestive false feedback. The current study examined whether manipulating people’s memories of learned associations would impact fear related behavior. A modified sensory preconditioning paradigm of fear learning was used. Critically, in a memory test after fear learning, participants received verbal false feedback to change their memory associations. After receiving the false feedback, participants’ beliefs and memories ratings for learned associations decreased significantly compared to the no feedback condition. Furthermore, in the false feedback condition, participants no longer showed avoidance to fear conditioned stimuli and relevant subjective fear ratings dropped significantly. Our results suggest that manipulating memory associations might minimize avoidance behavior in fear conditioning. These data also highlight the role of memory in higher order conditioning.
Heterogeneous GAD65 Expression in Subtypes of GABAergic Neurons Across Layers of the Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus
Authors: Kajita Yuki , Mushiake Hajime
Published: November 2021

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a major inhibitory transmitter in the central nervous system, is synthesized via either of two enzyme isoforms, GAD65 or GAD67. GAD65 is synthesized in the soma but functions at synaptic terminals in an activity-dependent manner, playing a distinct role in excitatory-inhibitory balance. However, the extent to which each GABAergic subtype expresses GAD65 in the resting state remains unclear. In this study, we compared GAD65 expression among six GABAergic subtypes: NPY+, nNOS+, PV+, SOM+, CR+, and CCK+. According to the results, the GABAergic subtypes were classified into two groups per region based on GAD65 expression levels: high-expression (NPY+ and nNOS+) and low-expression groups (PV+, SOM+, CR+, and CCK+) in the cerebral cortex and high-expression (NPY+, nNOS+, and CCK+) and low-expression groups (PV+, SOM+, and CR+) in the hippocampus. Moreover, these expression patterns revealed a distinct laminar distribution in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. To investigate the extent of GAD65 transport from the soma to synaptic terminals, we examined GAD65 expression in colchicine-treated rats in which GAD65 was synthesized in the soma but not transported to terminals. We found a significant positive correlation in GAD65 expression across subtypes between colchicine-treated and control rats. In summary, each GABAergic subtype exhibits a distinct GAD65 expression pattern across layers of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. In addition, the level of GAD65 expression in the soma can be used as a proxy for the amount of GAD65 in the cytoplasm. These findings suggest that exploration of the distinct profiles of GAD65 expression among GABAergic subtypes could clarify the roles that GABAergic subtypes play in maintaining the excitatory-inhibitory balance.