bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of miR-200 family in the regulation of hallmarks of cancer
Authors: Klicka Klaudia , Grzywa Tomasz M. , Mielniczuk Aleksandra , Klinke Alicja , Włodarski Paweł K.
Published: September 2022

MiRNAs are short non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally contributing to the development of different diseases including cancer. The miR-200 family consists of five members, miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-200c, miR-141, and miR-429. Their expression is dysregulated in cancer tissue and their level is altered in the body fluids of cancer patients. Moreover, the levels of miR-200 family members correlate with clinical parameters such as cancer patients’ survival which makes them potentially useful as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. MiRNAs can act as either oncomiRs or tumor suppressor miRNAs depending on the target genes and their role in the regulation of key oncogenic signaling pathways. In most types of cancer, the miR-200 family acts as tumor suppressor miRNA and regulates all features of cancer. In this review, we summarized the expression pattern of the miR-200 family in different types of cancer and their potential utility as biomarkers. Moreover, we comprehensively described the role of miR-200 family members in the regulation of all hallmarks of cancer proposed by Hanahan and Weinberg with the focus on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasiveness, and metastasis of tumor cells.
Tumor imaging and photothermal therapy in second near infrared window: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Fuhan , Hou Ya , Zhang Yating , Zeng Yong , Zhang Yi , Zhang Sanyin , Meng Xianli , Wang Xiaobo
Published: September 2022

Background

Second near-infrared window (NIR-II, 1000-1700 nm) technology for tumor imaging and photothermal therapy (PTT) is an innovative method for tumor diagnosis and treatment. The NIR-II probe can specifically identify tumor cells, and effectively convert light energy into heat energy under the irradiation of NIR laser, thus achieving the integration of non-invasive tumor diagnosis and treatment. In the present study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical investigations to corroborate the efficacy and safety of photothermal therapy.

Methods

Relevant preclinical data were retrieved by searching PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, WANFANG and VIP information databases. And the acquired data were analyzed by RevMan Version 5.3 software.

Results

According to the inclusion criteria, forty-two articles relating to NIR-II tumor imaging and PTT were recruited for further in-depth analysis. The NIR-II photoacoustic and fluorescence imaging could quickly and accurately identify tumor in mice, manifesting higher signal intensity on tumor site than that of normal tissue. After PTT, the tumor volume of mice decreased miraculously [RR=8.49, 95%CI (4.64, 15.55), P<0.00001], and even disappeared completely [RR=7.01, 95%CI (3.04, 16.13), P<0.00001] with no potential risk of affecting the blood routine.

Conclusions

PTT guided by NIR-II imaging can effectively diagnose the tumor lesion and eliminate it with the advantages of non-invasive and higher biosafety.
Massive gastrointestinal haemorrhage caused by pancreatic pseudocyst complicated with Dieulafoy's disease in a child: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Liu Lintao , Zhang Lichao , Zhu Xiaoli , Li Meng , Cao Juan , Ji Likang , Qi Xiaoyang , Xu Weili
Published: September 2022

Background

Pancreatic pseudocyst (PPC) with massive gastrointestinal bleeding is rare, especially in children. Inadvertent intraoperative examination and damage to the gastric mucosa and malformed blood vessels by the fluid content of PPC can lead to massive bleeding, which may endanger the patient's life.

Case presentation

Here, we present a case of an 8-year-old boy who was diagnosed with a massive gastrointestinal haemorrhage caused by PPC complicated with Dieulafoy's disease. At his first admission, his complaint was being hit to the stomach by the handlebar while riding bicycle 24 h before admission. After being hospitalized, he was diagnosed with pancreatic injury by abdominal CT. Conservative treatment lasted for 1 month in the Department of Pediatric Surgery. Then, a pancreatic pseudocyst was formed. Under the guidance of ultrasonic endoscopy, cyst puncture and drainage of pseudocysts through the gastric wall were performed. Unexplained hematemesis occurred 8 days after surgery. Emergency gastroscopy was performed, and abnormal submucosal vascular haemorrhage was found at the gastric fundus. Gastric Dieulafoy's disease was diagnosed. The boy underwent gastroscopic titanium clipping of abnormal arteries. He had no complications during the 3-month follow-up. Then, the patient returned to the hospital, and the stent was removed under endoscopy. No bleeding was found, and the patient was discharged. The patient recovered smoothly and was followed up for half a year without any complications, and hematological indicators were normal.

Conclusion

Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided gastric puncture and internal drainage of cysts is a safe and effective surgical method for the treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts. However, at the same time, it is necessary to thoroughly and carefully explore the stomach cavity to prevent adverse consequences caused by a missed diagnosis of gastric Dieulafoy's disease or other abnormal abnormalities.
The critical role of ferritinophagy in human disease
Authors: Liu Meng-Zhen , Kong Ni , Zhang Guang-Yu , Xu Qin , Xu Yang , Ke Ping , Liu Chong
Published: September 2022

Ferritinophagy is a type of autophagy mediated by nuclear receptor activator 4 (NCOA4), which plays a role in inducing ferroptosis by regulating iron homeostasis and producing reactive oxygen species in cells. Under physiological conditions, ferritinophagy maintains the stability of intracellular iron by regulating the release of free iron. Studies have demonstrated that ferritinophagy is necessary to induce ferroptosis; however, under pathological conditions, excessive ferritinophagy results in the release of free iron in large quantities, which leads to lipid peroxidation and iron-dependent cell death, known as ferroptosis. Ferritinophagy has become an area of interest in recent years. We here in review the mechanism of ferritinophagy and its association with ferroptosis and various diseases to provide a reference for future clinical and scientific studies.
Effects of botanical drugs in the treatment of cancer-related fatigue in patients with gastric cancer: A meta-analysis and prediction of potential pharmacological mechanisms
Authors: Wang Ziming , Wu Zihong , Xiang Qiong , Yang Jingyi , Xia Zhenzhong , Hao Aohan , Song Enfeng , Mei Shasha
Published: September 2022

Objective: To systematically review the efficacy and safety of botanical drugs in the treatment of cancer-related fatigue (CRF) caused by gastric cancer (GC) and to determine the underlying pharmacological mechanisms using a network analysis.

Methods: Databases such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), SinoMed, Wanfang, Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from inception to 18 April 2022. Methodological quality assessment was performed using the collaborative tool Cochrane, and data analysis were carried out using RevMan 5.4 and STATA 16 software. The botanical drugs with the highest frequency of use in the included studies was selected. The chemical composition, targets of action, disease targets, and shared targets of these botanical drugs were screened based on network analysis to explore the potential mechanisms of treating CRF in patients with gastric cancer (GC).

Results: A total of 13 studies that included 986 patients with gastric CRF met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that botanical drugs could improve the CRF scores of gastric CRF, including the total scores of CRF dichotomous data [Odds Ratio (OR) = 4.22; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.67–10.68; p = 0.002], the total scores of CRF continuous data [Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) = -0.98; 95% CI -1.36 to -0.60; p < 0.00001], the affective subscales of Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS) scores [Weighted Mean Difference (MD) = -0.79; 95%CI -0.92 to -0.65; p < 0.00001], the sensory subscales of PFS scores (MD = -0.57; 95%CI -0.77 to -0.37; p < 0.00001), the behavioral subscales of PFS scores (MD = -1.05; 95% CI -1.29 to -0.82; p < 0.00001), Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (QLQ-C30) (MD = 10.53, 95% CI 8.26 to12.80; p < 0.00001), and the Karnofsky Performance Status scale (KPS) (MD = 5.18, 95% CI 2.60 to 7.76; p < 0.0001). The botanical drugs group had milder adverse effects than the control group. A total of 44 chemical components and 241 potential targets were obtained from the online database and 121 drug targets overlapped with the disease targets of CRF in patients with GC. Moreover, five key active ingredients, namely quercetin, Stigmasterol, luteolin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin, as well as five key targets including AKT1, TP53, TNF, VEGFA, and CASP3, were screened. In addition, five key signaling pathways, including cancer, Hepatitis B, Prostate cancer, Hepatitis C, and Pancreatic cancer pathways, were obtained through enrichment analysis.

Conclusion: The results of the study showed that botanical drugs have positive effects on CRF in patients with GC. However, more well-designed, multicenter, and large sample-sized Randomized Controlled Trials are required to evaluate the effectiveness of botanical drugs on CRF in patients with GC.
Deep cooling scheme of quantum degenerate gas and ground experimental verification for chinese space station
Authors: Li Hui , Yu Jiachen , Yuan Xiaolong , Wu Biao , Xie Yu , Li Lin , Liang Angang , Huang Mingshan , Jin Shengjie , Xiong Wei , Wang Bin , Chen Dijun , Li Tang , Hou Xia , Liu Liang , Zhou Xiaoji , Chen Weibiao , Chen Xuzong
Published: September 2022

The Cold Atom Physics Rack (CAPR) of Chinese space station will be launched at the end of 2022. The important goal of CAPR is to achieve BEC at 100 pk. In order to obtain ultracold atoms in microgravity of space station, we propose a two-stage cooling scheme using all-optical trap with different waist beams. The cold atom cloud obtained by this scheme is composed of condensate and thermal atoms around condensate. The design of our two-stage cooling scheme will effectively reduce the temperature of the thermal atom cloud and the effective temperature generated by the interaction energy of the condensate. The atomic temperature of 5 nk is obtained from the ground test experiment, and the corresponding temperature under the microgravity condition of the space station is theoretically predicted to be less than 100 pk. Taking the advantages of ultracold temperature and long-time detection, many scientific experiments will be arranged. In this paper, the ground test experiments based on ground principle prototype and pre-prototype for CAPR are also introduced.
Influence of biochar and microorganism co-application on stabilization of cadmium (Cd) and improved maize growth in Cd-contaminated soil
Authors: Haider Fasih Ullah , Farooq Muhammad , Naveed Muhammad , Cheema Sardar Alam , Ain Noor ul , Salim Muhammad Arslan , Liqun Cai , Mustafa Adnan
Published: September 2022

Cadmium (Cd) is one the leading environmental contaminants. The Cd toxicity and its potential stabilization strategies have been investigated in the recent years. However, the combined effects of biochar and microorganisms on the adsorption of Cd and maize plant physiology, still remained unclear. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to evaluate the combined effects of biochar (BC) pyrolyzed from (maize-straw, cow-manure, and poultry-manure, and microorganisms [Trichoderma harzianum (fungus) and Bacillus subtilis (bacteria)], on plant nutrient uptake under various Cd-stress levels (0, 10, and 30 ppm). The highest level of Cd stress (30 ppm) caused the highest reduction in maize plant biomass, intercellular CO2, transpiration rate, water use efficiency, stomatal conductance, and photosynthesis rate as compared to control Cd0 (0 ppm). The sole application of BC and microorganisms significantly improved plant growth, intercellular CO2, transpiration rate, water use efficiency, stomatal conductance, and photosynthesis rate and caused a significant reduction in root and shoot Cd. However, the co-application of BC and microorganisms was more effective than the sole applications. In this regard, the highest improvement in plant growth and carbon assimilation, and highest reduction in root and shoot Cd was recorded from co-application of cow-manure and combined inoculation of Trichoderma harzianum (fungus) + Bacillus subtilis (bacteria) under Cd stress. However, due to the aging factor and biochar leaching alkalinity, the effectiveness of biochar in removing Cd may diminish over time, necessitating long-term experiments to improve understanding of biochar and microbial efficiency for specific bioremediation aims.
Rhizosphere element circling, multifunctionality, aboveground productivity and trade-offs are better predicted by rhizosphere rare taxa
Authors: Wang Puchang , Ding Leilei , Zou Chao , Zhang Yujun , Wang Mengya
Published: September 2022

Microbes, especially abundant microbes in bulk soils, form multiple ecosystem functions, which is relatively well studied. However, the role of rhizosphere microbes, especially rhizosphere rare taxa vs. rhizosphere abundant taxa in regulating the element circling, multifunctionality, aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) and the trade-offs of multiple functions remains largely unknown. Here, we compared the multiple ecosystem functions, the structure and function of rhizosphere soil bacterial and fungal subcommunities (locally rare, locally abundant, regionally rare, regionally abundant, and entire), and the role of subcommunities in the Zea mays and Sophora davidii sole and Z. mays/S. davidii intercropping ecosystems in subtropical China. Results showed that intercropping altered multiple ecosystem functions individually and simultaneously. Intercropped Z. mays significantly decreased the trade-off intensity compared to sole Z. mays, the trade-off intensity under intercropped S. davidii was significantly higher than under intercropped Z. mays. The beta diversities of bacterial and fungal communities, and fungal functions in each subcommunity significantly differed among groups. Network analysis showed intercropping increased the complexity and positive links of rare bacteria in Z. mays rhizosphere, but decreased the complexity and positive links of rare bacteria in S. davidii rhizosphere and the complexity and positive links of fungi in both intercropped plants rhizosphere. Mantel test showed significant changes in species of locally rare bacteria were most strongly related to nitrogen-cycling multifunctionality, ANPP and trade-offs intensity, significant changes in species of locally rare fungus were most strongly related to carbon-cycling multifunctionality, phosphorus-cycling multifunctionality, and average ecosystem multifunctionality. This research highlights the potential and role of rare rhizosphere microorganisms in predicting and regulating system functions, productivity, and trade-offs.
Rice protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunits OsINH2 and OsINH3 participate actively in growth and adaptive responses under abscisic acid
Authors: Jadoon Sawaira , Qin Qianqian , Shi Weiqiang , Longfeng Yan , Hou Suiwen
Published: September 2022

Rice (Oryza sativa L.), a worldwide staple food crop, is affected by various environmental stressors that ultimately reduce yield. However, diversified physiological and molecular responses enable it to cope with adverse factors. It includes the integration of numerous signaling in which protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) plays a pivotal role. Research on PP1 has been mostly limited to the PP1 catalytic subunit in numerous cellular progressions. Therefore, we focused on the role of PP1 regulatory subunits (PP1r), OsINH2 and OsINH3, homologs of AtINH2 and AtINH3 in Arabidopsis, in rice growth and stress adaptations. Our observations revealed that these are ubiquitously expressed regulatory subunits that interacted and colocalized with their counter partners, type 1 protein phosphatase (OsTOPPs) but could not change their subcellular localization. The mutation in OsINH2 and OsINH3 reduced pollen viability, thereby affected rice fertility. They were involved in abscisic acid (ABA)-mediated inhibition of seed germination, perhaps by interacting with osmotic stress/ABA-activated protein kinases (OsSAPKs). Meanwhile, they positively participated in osmotic adjustment by proline biosynthesis, detoxifying reactive oxygen species (ROS) through peroxidases (POD), reducing malondialdehyde formation (MDA), and regulating stress-responsive genes. Moreover, their co-interaction proposed they might mediate cellular processes together or by co-regulation; however, the special behavior of two different PP1r is needed to explore. In a nutshell, this research enlightened the involvement of OsINH2 and OsINH3 in the reproductive growth of rice and adaptive strategies under stress. Hence, their genetic interaction with ABA components and deep mechanisms underlying osmotic regulation and ROS adjustment would explain their role in complex signaling. This research offers the basis for introducing stress-resistant crops.
What are the changes in basketball shooting pattern and accuracy in National Basketball Association in the past decade?
Authors: Wang Feng , Zheng Guohua
Published: September 2022

The main research question addressed in this study is if and how the shooting pattern and field-goal accuracy have changed in the NBA league in the past decade. This study analyzes NBA game data from the 2011–2012 regular season to the 2020–2021 season. Field goal attempts are grouped into five categories by the shooting distance. The Mann-Kendall trend test was employed to examine if changes are statistically significant (p < 0.05) over the years. Sixteen equal segments in one basketball game, each with 3 min, were analyzed to examine the shooting pattern in different game segments. Results reveal an increasing trend in the percentage of 3-pointer shooting, which has nearly doubled from 22 to 39%. Meanwhile, the percentage of field goals within the range of 16–24 ft has decreased from 20 to 10%. Field-goal accuracy has shown an increasing trend for all shooting distances except for the 3-pointer shooting. The second and fourth 3-min within each quarter have the highest number of field goals. The first quarter has a higher shooting accuracy than the rest three quarters. In addition, results reveal that the last 3-min in each quarter has the lowest shooting accuracy. Reasons for the patterns of field goals in different segments are discussed from the perspective of game rule changes, the fatigue effects, and coaches’ game strategies. The reasons for changes in activity level and performance in different quarters are also discussed. This study offers new insights into the changes in basketball shooting patterns and accuracy in NBA games in the past decade. Practical meanings of this study for basketball players, coaches, and sports psychologists, as well as the strength and limitations of this study, are discussed.
The sustainable development of Asian students’ project-based learning: Implementing a holistic and indigenous Whare Tapa Rima Model
Authors: Zhang Xiudi , Tian Xiaoming
Published: September 2022

This study employs a holistic and indigenous theoretical model called Whare Tapa Rima to examine the project-based learning (PBL) experiences of Asian students in a private training establishment, the W institution, at the tertiary level in New Zealand. The analysis shows that Asian students face challenges in their PBL journey in physical, cultural, interconnected emotional and intellectual, social, and spiritual dimensions. Implications from the research analysis may be considered about how to provide better support and international services to Asian students involved in PBL programs worldwide by adopting the responsive, theory-informed framework of the Whare Tapa Rima Model.
Mycotic infection as a risk factor for COVID-19: A meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Anlin , Li Zhengtu , Su Guansheng , Li Ya , Zhang Yuzhuo , Liang Jinkai , Cheng Xiaoxue , Wang Xidong , Li Yongming , Ye Feng
Published: September 2022

More than 405 million people have contracted coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide, and mycotic infection may be related to COVID-19 development. There are a large number of reports showing that COVID-19 patients with mycotic infection have an increased risk of mortality. However, whether mycotic infection can be considered a risk factor for COVID-19 remains unknown. We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases for studies published from inception to December 27, 2021. Pooled effect sizes were calculated according to a random-effects model or fixed-effect model, depending on heterogeneity. We also performed subgroup analyses to identify differences in mortality rates between continents and fungal species. A total of 20 articles were included in this study. Compared with the controls, patients with mycotic infection had an odds ratio (OR) of 2.69 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.22–3.26] for mortality and an OR of 2.28 (95% CI: 1.65–3.16) for renal replacement therapy (RRT). We also conducted two subgroup analyses based on continent and fungal species, and we found that Europe and Asia had the highest ORs, while Candida was the most dangerous strain of fungi. We performed Egger's test and Begg's test to evaluate the publication bias of the included articles, and the p-value was 0.423, which indicated no significant bias. Mycotic infection can be regarded as a risk factor for COVID-19, and decision makers should be made aware of this risk.
Application of historic datasets to understanding open solar flux and the 20th-century grand solar maximum. 2. Solar observations
Authors: Lockwood Mike , Owens Mathew J. , Yardley Stephanie L. , Virtanen Iiro O. I. , Yeates Anthony R. , Muñoz-Jaramillo Andrés
Published: September 2022

We study historic observations of solar activity from the 20th-century rise towards the peak of the Modern Grand Solar Maximum (MGSM) and compare with observations of the decline that has occurred since. The major difference in available solar observations of the rise and of the fall are accurate magnetograms from solar magnetographs: we here use synthetic magnetograms to interpret the rise and employ historic observations of Polar Crown Filaments to test them and verify their use. We show that eclipse images at sunspot minimum reveal the long-term variation of open flux deduced from geomagnetic observations in Paper 1 (Lockwood et al., 2022). We also make use of polar coronal hole fluxes derived from historic white light images of polar faculae, but have to consider the implications of the fact that these facular images do not tell us the polarity of the field. Given this caveat, the agreement between the polar coronal hole fluxes and the values derived from open flux continuity modelling based on sunspot numbers is extremely good. This comparison indicates that one possible solution to the “open flux problem” is open flux within the streamer belt that potential-based modelling of coronal fields from photospheric fields is not capturing. We take a detailed look at the solar cycle at the peak of the MGSM, cycle 19, and show the variation of the polar coronal hole fluxes and the inferred poleward flux surges are predictable from the asymmetries in flux emergence in the two hemispheres with implied transequatorial flux transfer and/or “anti-Hale” (or more general “rogue” active region flux) emergence late in the sunspot cycle.
Patients with first recurrent retroperitoneal sarcoma that can be macroscopically completely resected can achieve comparable outcomes with that of primary patients after en bloc resection of tumor and adjacent organs
Authors: Wang Zhen , Wu Jian-hui , Li Cheng-peng , Lv Ang , Qiu Hui , Tian Xiu-yun , Liu Bo-nan , Hao Chun-yi
Published: September 2022

The outcomes of patients with primary retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS) are significantly superior to those with recurrence. En bloc resection of tumor and adjacent organs is recommended in primary RPS. However, whether en bloc resection of tumor and adjacent organs can benefit recurrent patients or some recurrent patients is unclear. We compared the outcomes of patients with primary RPS, first recurrence (RPS-Rec1), and ≥2 recurrences (≥RPS-Rec2) to evaluate the value and criteria for en bloc resection of tumor and adjacent organs in recurrent cases. We evaluated the safety of en bloc resection of tumor and adjacent organs by assessing operation time, blood loss volume, postoperative morbidities (POM), and efficacy by comparing local recurrence and peritoneal metastasis (LR-PM), distant metastasis, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). A total of 101, 47, and 30 patients with primary RPS, RPS-Rec1, and ≥RPS-Rec2 were included, respectively. Recurrent RPS invaded more adjacent organs and surrounding fat tissue than primary RPS. The operation time, amount of blood loss, incidence of grade III–V POM, LR-PM rate, PFS, and OS in the RPS-Rec1 group were similar to those of the primary group, both of which were significantly superior to those of the ≥RPS-Rec2 group. Macroscopically incomplete resection and high-grade RPS rather than first recurrence were independent risk factors for LR-PM, PFS, and OS. In conclusion, the safety and efficacy of en bloc resection of tumor and adjacent organs in RPS-Rec1 were comparable with those in primary RPS but significantly superior to those of ≥RPS-Rec2. For RPS-Rec1, comparable outcomes to patients with primary RPS can be achieved, particularly in those in whom a macroscopically complete resection is achieved.
Keyhole supraorbital eyebrow approach for fully endoscopic resection of tuberculum sellae meningioma
Authors: Zheng Xialin , Shao Dongqi , Li Yu , Cai Longjie , Xie Shan , Sun Zhixiang , Jiang Zhiquan
Published: September 2022

Background

The fully endoscopic supraorbital trans-eyebrow keyhole approach is a technique utilized for the transcranial resection of tuberculum sellae meningioma (TSM). Surgery is the first choice for TSM treatment. This study aimed to summarize and analyze the safety, feasibility, limitations, and technical requirements of the fully endoscopic supraorbital trans-eyebrow keyhole approach for TSM resection.

Methods

Data of 19 TSM fully endoscopic supraorbital trans-eyebrow keyhole approach resections cases (six and 13 on the left and right eyebrows, respectively) were retrospectively analyzed at the Neurosurgery Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College (Bengbu, China) from August 2015 to March 2022.

Results

All 19 patients were diagnosed with meningioma (World Health Organization grade I), and according to the scope of tumor resection (EOR), 18 patients (94.7%) had gross total resection (GTR), and one patient (5.3%) had near-total resection (NTR). Preoperative chief complaints were symptomatic visual dysfunction (n = 12), headache and dizziness (n = 6), and accidental discovery (n = 1). Postoperative visual function improved in 83.3% of cases (10/12), and headache and dizziness were relieved in 83.3% of cases (5/6 patients). Postoperative intracranial infection occurred in one case and was cured by external drainage of the lumbar cistern and anti-infective treatment. Two cases of frontal lobe injury were discharged after conservative treatment. There was no postoperative olfactory dysfunction, eyelid ptosis, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, or death. There were no reports of disease recurrence or death during the 3-month follow-up at an outpatient clinic or by telephone.

Conclusion

Fully endoscopic TSM resection through the keyhole approach is safe and feasible. It can be used to explore angles that cannot be seen under a microscope and show the true value of endoscopy technology. The endoscopic equipment and technical skills of the surgeon and surgical team are important in this technique.
A long waiting time from diagnosis to treatment decreases the survival of non-small cell lung cancer patients with stage IA1: A retrospective study
Authors: Liu Bin , Qian Jia-Yi , Wu Lei-Lei , Zeng Jun-Quan , Xu Shu-Quan , Yuan Jin-Hua , Zheng Yong-Liang , Xie Dong , Chen Xiaolu , Yu Hai-Hong
Published: September 2022

Objective

The prognostic effect of delayed treatment on stage IA1 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients is still unclear. This study aimed to explore the association between the waiting time before treatment and the prognosis in stage IA1 NSCLC patients.

Methods

Eligible patients diagnosed with pathological stage IA1 NSCLC were included in this study. The clinical endpoints were overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). The Kaplan-Meier method, the Log-rank test, univariable, and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used in this study. Propensity score matching was used to reduce the bias of data distribution.

Results

There were eligible 957 patients in the study. The length of waiting time before treatment stratified the survival in patients [<3 months vs. ≥3-months, unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 0.481, P = 0.007; <2 months vs. ≥2-months, unadjusted HR = 0.564, P = 0.006; <1 month vs. ≥1-month, unadjusted HR = 0.537, P = 0.001]. The 5-year CSS rates were 95.0% and 77.0% in patients of waiting time within 3 months and over 3 months, respectively. After adjusting for other confounders, the waiting time was identified as an independent prognostic factor.

Conclusions

A long waiting time before treatment may decrease the survival of stage IA1 NSCLC patients. We propose that the waiting time for those patients preferably is less than one month and should not exceed two months.
A modified survival model for patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma based on lymph nodes: A study based on SEER database and external validation
Authors: Yang Tianbao , Huang Shijie , Chen Boyang , Chen Yahua , Liang Wei
Published: September 2022

Background

The counts of examined lymph nodes (ELNs) in predicting the prognosis of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a controversial issue. We conducted a retrospective study to develop an ELNs-based model to individualize ESCC prognosis.

Methods

Patients with ESCC from the SEER database and our center were strictly screened. The optimal threshold value was determine by the X-tile software. A prognostic model for ESCC patients was developed and validated with R. The model’s efficacy was evaluated by C-index, ROC curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

3,629 cases and 286 cases were screened from the SEER database and our center, respectively. The optimal cut-off value of ELNs was 10. Based on this, we constructed a model with a favorable C-index (training group: 0.708; external group 1: 0.687; external group 2: 0.652). The model performance evaluated with ROC curve is still reliable among the groups. 1-year AUC for nomogram in three groups (i.e., 0.753, 0.761, and 0.686) were superior to that of the TNM stage (P < 0.05). Similarly, the 3-year AUC and the 5-year AUC results for the model were also higher than that of the 8th TNM stage. By contrast, DCA showed the benefit of this model was better in the same follow-up period.

Conclusion

More than 10 ELNs are helpful to evaluate the survival of ESCC patients. Based on this, an improved model for predicting the prognosis of ESCC patients was proposed.
Egg Production and Quality, Lipid Metabolites, Antioxidant Status and Immune Response of Laying Hens Fed Diets with Various Levels of Soaked Flax Seed Meal
Authors: Attia Youssef A. , Al-Harthi Mohammed A. , Sagan Ahmed A. Al , Abdulsalam Nisreen M. , Hussein Elsayed O. S. , Olal Marai J.
Published: September 2022

Flax seed meal is a valuable source of fatty acids, particularly omega-3 such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), but its mucilage contents limit its use. This study assessed the effect of different levels of soaked flax seed meal (SFSM) on the production and health parameters in Rhode Island Red laying hens. A total of 120 hens were divided into three groups and fed diets containing 0, 6, and 12% SFSM for 10 weeks. The impact was determined based on the egg production and quality, lipid metabolites, antioxidant status, immune response, fertility, and hatchability. Diets containing up to 12% SFSM had no adverse effects on the laying rate, egg weight and mass, and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Hens supplemented with a diet containing 12% SFSM exhibited an improved egg-specific gravity, shell thickness, and yolk color. Moreover, egg albumen (%) and blood and meat spots were significantly increased. The Haugh unit score decreased substantially in chickens supplemented with a diet containing 12% SFSM. Moreover, the blood plasma and yolk lipid profiles were significantly reduced dose-dependently. The inclusion of SFSM improved the yolk lipoprotein by increasing the plasma and yolk high- density lipoprotein (HDL) and HDL/LDL (low-density lipoprotein). However, the antioxidant markers, namely, malondialdehyde (MDA), and the ratio between total antioxidants capacity (TAC)/MDA, were negatively affected in hens fed a 12% SFSM diet. Furthermore, the birds fed a 12% SFSM diet had a better immune response based on the phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, lymphocyte transformation test, lysozyme activity, and antibody titer for Newcastle disease virus. The fertility and hatchability increased significantly by 4.81 and 6.74%, respectively, when the hens were fed a diet of 12% SFSM compared with the control. In conclusion, up to 12% of SFSM in hens’ diets had no adverse effects on the productive and reproductive performances; at the same time, they improved the yolk color, plasma lipid profiles, yolk lipid profiles, and immune parameters.
Yeasts as a Potential Biological Agent in Plant Disease Protection and Yield Improvement—A Short Review
Authors: Kowalska Jolanta , Krzymińska Joanna , Tyburski Józef
Published: September 2022

The role of biocontrol products is expected to increase worldwide consumer demand and facilitate the implementation of sustainable agricultural policies. New biocontrol agents must allow for an effective crop-protection strategy in sustainable agriculture. Yeasts are microorganisms living in various niches of the environment that can be antagonists of many plant pathogens. Yeasts rapidly colonize plant surfaces, use nutrients from many sources, survive in a relatively wide temperature range, produce no harmful metabolites and have no deleterious effects on the final food products. Hence, they can be a good biocontrol agent. In this paper, the biological characteristics and potential of yeast are summarized. Additionally, the mechanisms of yeasts as plant-protection agents are presented. This includes the production of volatile organic compounds, production of killer toxins, competition for space and nutrient compounds, production of lytic enzymes, induction of plant immunity and mycoparasitism. The mechanisms of yeast interaction with plant hosts are also described, and examples of yeasts used for pre- and postharvest biocontrol are provided. Commercially available yeast-based products are listed and challenges for yeast-based products are described.
Evaluation of Markers Associated with Physiological and Biochemical Traits during Storage of ‘Nam Dok Mai Si Thong’ Mango Fruits
Authors: Tangpao Tibet , Phuangsaujai Nutthatida , Kittiwachana Sila , George David R. , Krutmuang Patcharin , Chuttong Bajaree , Sommano Sarana Rose
Published: September 2022

Mango ‘Nam dok mai si thong’ is in high demand worldwide, displaying desirable attributes which include a particularly sweet flavour and visually appealing appearance. Physiological and biochemical changes that occur in the fruit post-harvest are key factors in determining fruit quality and, consequently, predicted shelf life. In order to understand which post-harvest markers play crucial roles during the ripening process, as well as those which are a consequence of disease infection and physical damage caused by essential oil vapour, partial least squares (PLS) correlation models were used. During storage, physiochemical (percent weight loss, peel colour, firmness, pH, and peel electrolyte leakage) and biochemical (titratable acidity, total soluble solids, total phenolic compounds, total flavonoid compounds, antioxidants, total sugar, and reducing sugar content) parameters, as well as near-infrared (NIR) spectra, were monitored and correlated with visual post-harvest physiological responses. The majority of analysed markers displayed distinct relationships with the ripening process of mangoes, where for non-destructive parameters (R2 = 0.86), lightness (L*) and b* value were notably significant, and for destructive parameters (R2 = 0.79), pH and total soluble solids were notably significant. Similarly, the same markers were also correlated with physical damage and post-harvest mango disease infection severity, possibly through polysaccharide deformation and activation of browning-related enzymes. NIR imaging results also revealed the absorbent regions involved in biochemical alterations (water and enzymes; absorbance at 1170 nm, 1400–1500 nm, and 2150–2250 nm) that pertain to the fruit’s quality. The findings from this work provide an initial step towards the development and assessment of quality measures for ‘Nam dok mai si thong’ mango.
Influence of Selected Modeling Parameters on Plant Segmentation Quality Using Decision Tree Classifiers
Authors: Kitzler Florian , Wagentristl Helmut , Neugschwandtner Reinhard W. , Gronauer Andreas , Motsch Viktoria
Published: September 2022

Modern precision agriculture applications increasingly rely on stable computer vision outputs. An important computer vision task is to discriminate between soil and plant pixels, which is called plant segmentation. For this task, supervised learning techniques, such as decision tree classifiers (DTC), support vector machines (SVM), or artificial neural networks (ANN) are increasing in popularity. The selection of training data is of utmost importance in these approaches as it influences the quality of the resulting models. We investigated the influence of three modeling parameters, namely proportion of plant pixels (plant cover), criteria on what pixel to choose (pixel selection), and number/type of features (input features) on the segmentation quality using DTCs. Our findings show that plant cover and, to a minor degree, input features have a significant impact on segmentation quality. We can state that the overperformance of multi-feature input decision tree classifiers over threshold-based color index methods can be explained to a high degree by the more balanced training data. Single-feature input decision tree classifiers can compete with state-of-the-art models when the same training data are provided. This study is the first step in a systematic analysis of influence parameters of such plant segmentation models.
Use of Active Sensors in Coffee Cultivation for Monitoring Crop Yield
Authors: Martello Maurício , Molin José Paulo , Bazame Helizani Couto , Tavares Tiago Rodrigues , Maldaner Leonardo Felipe
Published: September 2022

Monitoring the spatial variability of agricultural variables is a main step in implementing precision agriculture practices. Active optical sensors (AOS), with their instrumentation directly on agricultural machines, are suitable and make it possible to obtain high-frequency data. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of AOS to map the spatial and temporal variability of coffee crop yields, as well as to establish guidelines for the acquisition of AOS data for sensing the sides of a coffee plant, allowing the evaluation of large commercial fields. The study was conducted in a commercial coffee area of 10.24 ha, cultivated with the Catuaí 144 variety. Data collection was performed with six Crop Circle ACS 430 sensors (Holland Scientific, Lincoln, NE, USA) and two N-Sensor NG sensors (Yara International, Dülmen, Germany). Seven field expeditions were made to collect data using the optical sensors during 2019 and 2021, obtaining data during the flowering, fruit-filling and fruit maturation phases (pre-harvest), and post-harvest. The results showed that the different faces of the same plant present a different Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) to its yield, obtained with a yield monitor on the harvester. The face with the highest exposure to solar radiation presented a slightly higher correlation to yield (−0.34 ≤ r ≤ −0.17) when compared with the face with less exposure (−0.27 ≤ r ≤ −0.15). In addition, it was observed that the vegetation indices measured at the beginning of the coffee cycle (before the rainy season that starts in October) present a positive correlation to the coffee yield of that same year (0.73 ≤ r ≤ 0.91). On the other hand, this relationship is changed after the beginning of the rain season, at which time the vegetation index increases abruptly, inverting the correlation with the yield after that (−0.93 ≤ r ≤ −0.77). Furthermore, it was observed that, due to the biennial nature of coffee production, the vegetation index acquired at a specific time has an inverted relationship when compared with the yield of that year and to the yield of the following (or previous) year.
Influence of Cactus Pear Mucilage-Based Edible Coating on Marketability and Edibility Parameters of Minimally Processed Loquat Fruits
Authors: Liguori Giorgia , Greco Giuseppe , Gaglio Raimondo , Settanni Luca , Inglese Paolo , Allegra Alessio
Published: September 2022

Loquat fruit, popular all over the world for its mild, subacid, and sweet taste, has been classified as a non-climacteric fruit with a very short postharvest life. The fruit decays quickly after harvest, and losses in titratable acidity, taste, and juiciness, and internal browning occurs rapidly during shelf life. The aim of our study was to assess the effects of cactus pear mucilage-based coating on quality, nutraceutical value, microbiological growth, and sensorial parameters of minimally processed white-flesh Martorana and orange-red-flesh Gigante Rossa loquat fruits during cold storage. The effect of mucilage edible coating on the postharvest life, qualitative attributes, and nutraceutical value of fruit were evaluated by coloring, firmness, total soluble solids content, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, antioxidant activity, total phenols, and total carotenoids content. Our data showed a significant effect of mucilage coating on preserving quality, nutraceutical value, sensorial parameters, and improving postharvest life of minimally processed loquat fruits. Furthermore, coated fruits showed a significantly lower microbiological growth than uncoated loquat fruits during the cold storage period. Our study suggests that minimally processing coated loquat fruit could allow producers to also sell to the market loquat fruits that present large spotted areas in the epicarp, which are usually considered unmarketable.
Enhancing Sustainability in Intensive Dill Cropping: Comparative Effects of Biobased Fertilizers vs. Inorganic Commodities on Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Crop Yield, and Soil Properties
Authors: Martínez-Sabater Encarnación , Pérez-Murcia María Dolores , Andreu-Rodríguez Francisco Javier , Orden Luciano , Agulló Enrique , Sáez-Tovar José , Martínez-Tome Juan , Bustamante María Ángeles , Moral Raul
Published: September 2022

The treatment and valorization of organic solid waste has become a promising alternative to increase intensive crop productivity while reducing its environmental impact. Currently, reusing improved organic waste as novel biofertilizers is a vital tool to adapt semiarid agricultural regions to climate change, but this has been scarcely studied in aromatic crops. The present study aims to assess the greenhouse gas emissions, soil properties, and crop yield of a dill crop using a drip irrigation system with a normalized N application rate of 160 kg N ha−1. We compare eight different fertilizing scenarios grouped into organic-based (manures and compost) and inorganic-based inputs (NPK commodities and slow-release formulations). GHG fluxes were measured during the 57-day fertigation period using static chambers. Key soil properties were measured previous to fertilizer applications and at harvest, coinciding with crop yield estimations. An increase in soil organic carbon was observed with stabilized organic treatments at 0–20 cm soil depth. The results show that stabilized organic-based materials lowered NO3− concentrations in dill biomass more than synthetic fertilizers, producing similar yields to those with synthetic fertilizers. In general, N2O emissions were positively affected by the treatments. Local specific emission factors for N2O were determined (0.08%), which were substantially lower than the default value (0.51%) of IPCC. The cumulative CO2 emissions were high in all the organic scenarios compared to the control treatment (277 kg C-CO2 ha−1), probably due to differences in labile organic C contents. Organic-based treatments showed multiple positive effects on crop quality, crop yields, and GHG mitigation potential. The use of organic amendments is an optimized N fertilizing strategy to promote circular economy and sustainability.
Plant-Based Methodologies and Approaches for Estimating Plant Water Status of Mediterranean Tree Species: A Semi-Systematic Review
Authors: Noun Gilbert , Lo Cascio Mauro , Spano Donatella , Marras Serena , Sirca Costantino
Published: September 2022

Global climate change presents a threat for the environment, and it is aggravated by the mismanagement of water use in the agricultural sector. Since plants are the intermediate component of the soil–plant–atmosphere continuum, and their physiology is directly affected by water availability, plant-based approaches proved to be sensitive and effective in estimating plant water status and can be used as a possible water-saving strategy in crop irrigation scheduling. This work consists of two parts: the first part extensively reviews the plant-based methods and approaches that are most applied to monitor the plant water status (PWS), the different technologies available, the gaps, and the possibility of further improvements in establishing a sustainable irrigation schedule. The various approaches are described, and the differences between conventional and recent improved methods are analyzed. The second part is an extensive dataset survey of 83 publications from 2012 to 2022 that applied the main monitoring methodologies and approaches for water status assessment in fruit and nut tree crops cultivated in a Mediterranean climate. The aim of this work is to serve as a practical reference to deepen reader knowledge on PWS and enhance researchers to identify gaps and potential advances in designing user-friendly monitoring technologies.