bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HER2-Targeted Antibody–Drug Conjugates Display Potent Antitumor Activities in Preclinical Extramammary Paget’s Disease Models: In Vivo and Immunohistochemical Analyses
Authors: Tokuchi Keiko , Maeda Takuya , Kitamura Shinya , Yanagi Teruki , Ujiie Hideyuki
Published: July 2022

Extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD) is an adenocarcinoma that develops mainly in the genital region of older adults. The prognosis for advanced EMPD is almost always poor; thus, novel therapeutic strategies need to be developed. HER2-targeted antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) such as trastuzumab emtansine and trastuzumab deruxtecan have proven effective against HER2-positive breast cancers; however, no studies have addressed HER2-targeted ADCs as treatments for EMPD. We examine the efficacy of ADCs against an EMPD patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model harboring pathogenic ERBB2 mutations and investigate the expression levels of HER2 using EMPD clinical samples. Trastuzumab emtansine or trastuzumab deruxtecan was administered intravenously to tumor-bearing NOD/Scid mice. Treatment with trastuzumab emtansine or trastuzumab deruxtecan was found to significantly regress EMPD-PDX tumors in only seven days, with no recurrence observed for 10 weeks. EMPD tumors extracted 48 h after drug administration revealed the TUNEL-positive ratio to be significantly higher for the HER2-targeted ADC-treated tumors than for the control tumors. EMPD patients’ clinical samples revealed a significant correlation between HER2 positivity and invasion, suggesting that HER2 status is associated with tumor progression. Our results suggest that HER2-targeted ADCs could be novel and promising treatment options for patients with EMPD, especially in ERBB2-mutant or ERBB2-overexpressed cases.
Survival Prediction in Patients Treated Surgically for Metastases of the Appendicular Skeleton—An External Validation of 2013-SPRING Model
Authors: Smolle Maria Anna , Musser Ewald , Bergovec Marko , Friesenbichler Joerg , Wibmer Christine Linda , Leitner Lukas , Sørensen Michala Skovlund , Petersen Michael Mørk , Brcic Iva , Szkandera Joanna , Scheipl Susanne , Leithner Andreas
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The aim of this study was to externally validate the 2013-SPRING model, a survival prediction tool for patients treated surgically for bone metastases in a retrospective patient cohort from a single institution. Moreover, subgroup analyses on patients treated with (A) endoprostheses or (B) osteosynthesis, as well as (C) upper limb and (D) lower limb metastases, were performed. Methods: Altogether, 303 cancer patients (mean age: 67.6 ± 11.1 years; 140 males (46.2%)) with bone metastases to the extremities, treated surgically between March 2000 and June 2018 at a single tertiary sarcoma centre, were retrospectively included. Median follow-up amounted to 6.3 (interquartile range (IQR): 2.3–21.8) months, with all patients followed-up for at least one year or until death. The 2013-SPRING model was applied to assess the prognostication accuracy at 3, 6 and 12 months. Models were validated with area under the curve receiver operator characteristic (AUC ROC; the higher the better), as well as Brier score. Results: Of the 303 patients, 141 had been treated with osteosynthesis (46.5%), and the remaining 162 patients with endoprosthesis (53.5%). Sixty-five (21.5%) metastases were located in the upper limbs, and two hundred and thirty-eight (78.5%) in the lower limbs. Using the 2013-SPRING model for the entire cohort, the accuracy of risk of death prediction at 3, 6 and 12 months, determined by the AUC ROC, was 0.782 (95% CI: 0.729–0.843), 0.810 (95% CI: 0.763–0.858) and 0.802 (95% CI: 0.751–0.854), respectively. Corresponding Brier scores were 0.170, 0.178 and 0.169 at 3, 6 and 12 months. In the subgroup analyses, predictive accuracy of the 2013-SPRING model was likewise encouraging, albeit being slightly higher in the osteosynthesis subgroup as compared with the endoprosthesis subgroup, and also higher in the upper limb in comparison to the lower limb metastasis subgroup. Conclusions: The current validation study of the 2013-SPRING model shows that this model is clinically relevant to use in an external cohort, also after stratification for surgical procedure and metastasis location.
Real-World Evaluation of Quality of Life, Effectiveness, and Safety of Aflibercept Plus FOLFIRI in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: The Prospective QoLiTrap Study
Authors: Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Anchisi Sandro , Grünberger Birgit , Derigs Hans G. , Zahn Mark-Oliver , Geffriaud-Ricouard Christine , Gueldner Max , Windemuth-Kieselbach Christine , Pederiva Stefanie , Bohanes Pierre , Scholten Felicitas , Piringer Gudrun , Thaler Josef , von Moos Roger
Published: July 2022

Aflibercept plus FOLFIRI prolongs overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer after the failure of oxaliplatin-containing therapy. QoLiTrap prospectively evaluated the quality of life (QoL) and effectiveness of this regimen in daily clinical practice, according to RAS status, sex, and prior targeted therapy, especially epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFR-I). The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients whose EORTC QLQ-C30 global health status (GHS) improved or reduced by <5% from baseline during the first 12 weeks of therapy. Secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety. One thousand two hundred and seventy-seven patients were treated with aflibercept plus FOLFIRI and 872 were evaluable for QoL. GHS improved or decreased by <5% in 40.3% of cases. The ORR was 20.8%, the median PFS was 7.8 months (95% confidence interval (CI), 7.3–8.3), and the median OS was 14.4 months (95% CI, 13.1–18.1). After prior EGFR-I, the ORR was 23.7%, median PFS was 9.4 months (95% CI, 6.5–12.9), and median OS was 17.4 months (95% CI, 10.5–33.7). The safety profile was consistent with previously reported data. Aflibercept plus FOLFIRI given in daily practice maintained QoL in mCRC patients, was associated with a high objective tumor response, and retained its activity regardless of sex, RAS status, and prior EGFR-I therapy.
Novel Salvage Therapy Options for Initial Treatment of Relapsed/Refractory Classical Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: So Many Options, How to Choose?
Authors: Takiar Radhika , Karimi Yasmin
Published: July 2022

The treatment landscape for relapsed/refractory classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cHL) has evolved with the introduction of several novel agents. Historically, the standard of care for relapsed cHL was salvage chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). However, many patients are ineligible for ASCT or will have poor responses to salvage chemotherapy and ASCT. Brentuximab vedotin (BV) and checkpoint inhibitors (nivolumab/pembrolizumab) were initially approved in the post-ASCT setting. However, as a result of excellent responses and durable outcomes in this setting, they are now being studied and explored in earlier lines of therapy. Additionally, these agents are also being studied for post-transplant consolidation and maintenance with promising results in improving progression-free survival. We will review current salvage therapy options involving these novel agents and provide comparisons between regimens to aid the clinician in selecting the appropriate salvage regimen for patients who progress after first-line therapy.
Chemotherapy Shows a Better Efficacy Than Endocrine Therapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients with a Heterogeneous Estrogen Receptor Expression Assessed by 18F-FES PET
Authors: Xie Yizhao , Du Xinyue , Zhao Yannan , Gong Chengcheng , Hu Shihui , You Shuhui , Song Shaoli , Hu Xichun , Yang Zhongyi , Wang Biyun
Published: July 2022

Background: The heterogeneity of estrogen receptor (ER) expression has long been a challenge for the diagnosis and treatment strategy of metastatic breast cancer (MBC). A novel convenient method of ER detection using 18F-fluoroestradiol positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FES PET/CT) offers a chance to screen and analyze MBC patients with ER uncertainty. Methods: MBC patients who received 18F-FES PET/CT were screened and patients with both FES positive (FES+) and negative (FES-) lesions were enrolled in this study. Progression-free survival (PFS) was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and was compared using the log-rank test. Results: A total of 635 patients were screened and 75 of 635 (11.8%) patients showed ER uncertainty; 51 patients received further treatment and were enrolled in this study. Among them, 20 (39.2%) patients received chemotherapy (CT), 21 (41.2%) patients received endocrine-based therapy (ET), and 10 (19.6%) patients received combined therapy (CT + ET). CT showed a better progression-free survival (PFS) compared with ET (mPFS 7.1 vs. 4.6 months, HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.20–0.93, p = 0.03). CT + ET did not improve PFS compared with either CT or ET alone (mPFS 4.4 months, p > 0.2). All three treatment options were well tolerated. Conclusions: 18F-FES PET/CT could identify patients with ER heterogeneity. Patients with bone metastasis are more likely to have ER heterogeneity. Patients with ER heterogeneity showed better sensitivity to CT rather than ET. Combined therapy of CT + ET did not improve the treatment outcome.
Treatment Planning in Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT): Where Should We Go?
Authors: Cavedon Carlo , Mazzarotto Renzo
Published: July 2022

As opposed to external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), treatment planning systems (TPS) dedicated to intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) were not subject to radical modifications in the last two decades. However, new treatment regimens such as ultrahigh dose rates and combination with multiple treatment modalities, as well as the prospected availability of dedicated in-room imaging, call for important new features in the next generation of treatment planning systems in IORT. Dosimetric accuracy should be guaranteed by means of advanced dose calculation algorithms, capable of modelling complex scattering phenomena and accounting for the non-tissue equivalent materials used to shape and compensate electron beams. Kilovoltage X-ray based IORT also presents special needs, including the correct description of extremely steep dose gradients and the accurate simulation of applicators. TPSs dedicated to IORT should also allow real-time imaging to be used for treatment adaptation at the time of irradiation. Other features implemented in TPSs should include deformable registration and capability of radiobiological planning, especially if unconventional irradiation schemes are used. Finally, patient safety requires that the multiple features be integrated in a comprehensive system in order to facilitate control of the whole process.
Performance of Machine Learning Classifiers in Classifying Stunting among Under-Five Children in Zambia
Authors: Chilyabanyama Obvious Nchimunya , Chilengi Roma , Simuyandi Michelo , Chisenga Caroline C. , Chirwa Masuzyo , Hamusonde Kalongo , Saroj Rakesh Kumar , Iqbal Najeeha Talat , Ngaruye Innocent , Bosomprah Samuel
Published: July 2022

Stunting is a global public health issue. We sought to train and evaluate machine learning (ML) classification algorithms on the Zambia Demographic Health Survey (ZDHS) dataset to predict stunting among children under the age of five in Zambia. We applied Logistic regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), SV classification (SVC), XG Boost (XgB) and Naïve Bayes (NB) algorithms to predict the probability of stunting among children under five years of age, on the 2018 ZDHS dataset. We calibrated predicted probabilities and plotted the calibration curves to compare model performance. We computed accuracy, recall, precision and F1 for each machine learning algorithm. About 2327 (34.2%) children were stunted. Thirteen of fifty-eight features were selected for inclusion in the model using random forest. Calibrating the predicted probabilities improved the performance of machine learning algorithms when evaluated using calibration curves. RF was the most accurate algorithm, with an accuracy score of 79% in the testing and 61.6% in the training data while Naïve Bayesian was the worst performing algorithm for predicting stunting among children under five in Zambia using the 2018 ZDHS dataset. ML models aids quick diagnosis of stunting and the timely development of interventions aimed at preventing stunting.
How Different Dietary Methionine Sources Could Modulate the Hepatic Metabolism in Rainbow Trout?
Authors: Ceccotti Chiara , Biasato Ilaria , Gasco Laura , Caimi Christian , Bellezza Oddon Sara , Rimoldi Simona , Brambilla Fabio , Terova Genciana
Published: July 2022

In aquafeeds in which plant proteins are used to replace fishmeal, exogenous methionine (Met) sources are demanded to balance the amino acid composition of diets and meet the metabolic fish requirements. Nonetheless, since different synthetic Met sources are commercially available, it is important to determine their bioavailability and efficacy. To address this issue, we conducted a two-month feeding trial with rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), which were fed diets supplemented with five different forms of Met: Met-Met, L-Met, HMTBa, DL-Met, and Co DL-Met. No differences in growth performance were found in trout fed with different Met forms, but changes in the whole-body composition were found. In particular, Met-Met and L-Met promoted a significant body lipid reduction, whereas the protein retention was significantly increased in fish fed with HMTBa and Co DL-Met. The latter affected the hepatic Met metabolism promoting the trans-sulfuration pathway through the upregulation of CBS gene expression. Similarly, the L-Met enhanced the remethylation pathway through an increase in BHMT gene expression to maintain the cellular demand for Met. Altogether, our findings suggest an optimal dietary intake of all tested Met sources with similar promoting effects on fish growth and hepatic Met metabolism. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying these effects warrant further investigation.
Identification of Gut Microbiome Metabolites via Network Pharmacology Analysis in Treating Alcoholic Liver Disease
Authors: Oh Ki-Kwang , Choi Ye-Rin , Gupta Haripriya , Ganesan Raja , Sharma Satya Priya , Won Sung-Min , Jeong Jin-Ju , Lee Su-Been , Cha Min-Gi , Kwon Goo-Hyun , Kim Dong-Joon , Suk Ki-Tae
Published: July 2022

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is linked to a broad spectrum of diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and even liver carcinoma. The ALD spectrum includes alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD), alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Most recently, some reports demonstrated that the pathogenesis of ALD is strongly associated with metabolites of human microbiota. AFLD was the onset of disease among ALDs, the initial cause of which is alcohol consumption. Thus, we analyzed the significant metabolites of microbiota against AFLD via the network pharmacology concept. The metabolites from microbiota were retrieved by the gutMGene database; sequentially, AFLD targets were identified by public databases (DisGeNET, OMIM). The final targets were utilized for protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks and signaling pathway analyses. Then, we performed a molecular docking test (MDT) to verify the affinity between metabolite(s) and target(s) utilizing the Autodock 1.5.6 tool. From a holistic viewpoint, we integrated the relationships of microbiota-signaling pathways-targets-metabolites (MSTM) using the R Package. We identified the uppermost six key targets (TLR4, RELA, IL6, PPARG, COX-2, and CYP1A2) against AFLD. The PPI network analysis revealed that TLR4, RELA, IL6, PPARG, and COX-2 had equivalent degrees of value (4); however, CYP1A2 had no associations with the other targets. The bubble chart showed that the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in nine signaling pathways might be the most significant mechanism with antagonistic functions in the treatment of AFLD. The MDT confirmed that Icaritin is a promising agent to bind stably to RELA (known as NF-Κb). In parallel, Bacterium MRG-PMF-1, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, RELA, and Icaritin were the most significant components against AFLD in MSTM networks. In conclusion, we showed that the Icaritin–RELA complex on the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway by bacterial MRG-PMF-1 might have promising therapeutic effects against AFLD, providing crucial evidence for further research.
Environmental Decay of Single Use Surgical Face Masks as an Agent of Plastic Micro-Fiber Pollution
Authors: Spennemann Dirk H. R.
Published: July 2022

Large numbers of Single Use Surgical-type Face Masks, used by the public as personal protective equipment during the 2020–2022 COVID-19 pandemic, have been lost or intentionally discarded and have entered the environment rather than the waste management stream. These masks, made from non-woven polypropylene fibers, will undergo environmental decay which will release fiber fragments as microplastics into the environment. While the photochemical process of the decay of polypropylene polymers (photo-oxidation) is well understood, and while there are numerous studies that investigate mask decay and micro-fiber shedding in laboratory settings, there are no observational data that describe the progress and speed of decay on polypropylene face masks in real-life environmental settings. This paper examines the breakdown of single use surgical-type face masks under natural conditions. Masks from three manufacturers were exposed to natural sunlight over a ten-week period and their state of decay was photographically recorded in situ at weekly intervals. Visible decay accelerated after three weeks, with masks made from thinner spunbond fabric decaying more rapidly. Among same-weight fabric, photo-oxidation affected fabric dyed light blue more than undyed fabric, leading to a total breakdown after six weeks. The results are novel as they demonstrate a differential decay between the spunbonded and the melt-blown fabric, which cracks and breaks down much faster due to thinner fibers of shorter length and the lack of thermal bonding points. The resultant extensive micro-fiber generation was accelerated by external physical forces such as wind. This experiment highlights the fact that municipal agencies have only a narrow window of time to remove stray face masks from the urban environment if micro-fiber pollution is to be prevented.
Measuring and Modeling the Effect of Strip Cutting on the Water Table in Boreal Drained Peatland Pine Forests
Authors: Stenberg Leena , Leppä Kersti , Launiainen Samuli , Laurén Annamari (Ari) , Hökkä Hannu , Sarkkola Sakari , Saarinen Markku , Nieminen Mika
Published: July 2022

Strip-cutting management has been proposed as an alternative to clear-cuts in drained boreal peatland pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) forests. We explored the hydrological feasibility of strip cutting, that is, under which conditions the post-harvest water table (WT) in peat remains sufficiently deep (here, a WT of −0.35 m during the late growing season) to enable undisturbed tree growth. We approached the question by (1) measuring the WTs in a harvested strip and an adjacent unharvested stand in peatland forests in southern Finland and (2) by simulating the WTs in different strip cut layouts, unharvested peatland, and clear-cut cases using a process-based hydrological model. The measured WTs were, on average, 0.06–0.12 m closer to the peat surface in the harvested strips than in the unharvested stands. The hydrological feasibility of strip cutting increased along with increasing site productivity and improving climate conditions. Strip cutting resulted in the rise in the WTs of adjacent unharvested stands, which can have undesired consequences. Depending on the stand density and strip cut layout, the share of the well-drained area in the harvested strips was slightly larger or even two times larger compared to a complete clear-cut of the forest. Narrow strips (here, 13 m in width) indicated better drainage in the harvested area than wider (20–30 m in width) strips. Even though strip cutting has limited capacity to maintain efficient drainage in the harvested strip on low hydraulic conductivity peat, the increase in the WT was smaller than after clear-cut.
Analysis of the Influence of Forests on Landslides in the Bijie Area of Guizhou
Authors: Zhang Yu , Shen Chaoyong , Zhou Shaoqi , Luo Xuling
Published: July 2022

Forests are an important part of the ecological environment, and changes in forests not only affect the ecological environment of the region but are also an important factor causing landslide disasters. In order to correctly evaluate the impact of forest cover on landslide susceptibility, in this paper, we build an evaluation model for the contribution of forests to the landslide susceptibility of different grades based on survey data for forest land change in Bijie City and landslide susceptibility data, and discuss the effects of forest land type, origin, age group, and dominant tree species on landslide susceptibility. We find that forests play a certain role in regulating landslide susceptibility: compared with woodland, the landslide protection ability of shrubland is stronger. Furthermore, natural forests have a greater inhibitory effect on landslides than artificial forests, and compared with young forest, mature forest and over-mature forest, middle-aged forest and near-mature forest have stronger landslide protection abilities. In addition, the dominant tree species in different regions have different impacts on landslides. Coniferous forests such as Chinese fir and Cryptomeria fortunei in Qixingguan and Dafang County have a low ability to prevent landslides. Moreover, the soft broad tree species found in Qianxi County, Zhijin County, Nayong County and Jinsha County are likely to cause landslides and deserve further research attention. Additionally, a greater focus should be placed on the landslide protection of walnut economic forests in Hezhang County and Weining County. Simultaneously, greater attention should be paid to the Cyclobalanopsis glauca tree species in Weining County because the area where this tree species is located is prone to landslides. Aiming at addressing the landslide susceptibility existing in different forests, we propose forest management strategies for the ecological prevention and control of landslides in Bijie City, which can be used as a reference for landslide susceptibility prevention and control.
Quantifying Vegetation Stability under Drought in the Middle Reaches of Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Shi Xiaoliang , Chen Fei , Ding Hao , Li Yi , Shi Mengqi
Published: July 2022

Under the background of climate warming, the increase in the frequency and severity of drought leads to vegetation facing severe challenges. A comprehensive and systematic assessment of the stability of vegetation under drought stress in the middle reaches of Yellow River basin (MRYRB) will help to grasp the characteristics of vegetation response to drought. In this study, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was used to achieve quantitative and qualitative assessments of vegetation stability to drought, and the smoothed monthly standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) was used to describe the characteristics of drought events in 2005/2006 and identified vegetation stability parameters using a standardized anomaly of NDVI across space, which included the resistance duration, resilience duration, drought threshold, and lag time. Vegetation was dominated by less resistance and less resilience. The 2005/2006 drought event affected most of the study area, and vegetation growth was inhibited. The duration of vegetation resistance over 100 days accounted for 65.7%, and vegetation in 89.4% of the regions could return to normal within 100 days. The drought threshold of vegetation gradually decreased from northwest to southeast, and the lag time was mainly concentrated from 1 to 3 months. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the effects of drought on the environment, as well as scientific references for reducing ecological, economic, and social losses in future droughts, and promoting ecological environmental governance and high-quality development in the MRYRB.
Terpene Production Varies in Pinus thunbergii Parl. with Different Levels of Resistance, with Potential Effects on Pinewood Nematode Behavior
Authors: Wang Xin-Yu , Wu Xiao-Qin , Wen Tong-Yue , Feng Ya-Qi , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2022

Determining the mechanisms of pine wilt disease (PWD) resistance in Pinus is a popular research topic, but information on volatile organic substances (VOS) and their role in PWD is lacking. Whether the difference in VOS among Pinus thunbergii parl. that have different levels of resistance with pine wood nematodes (PWNs) is the reason for the differing resistance needs to be studied. In this study, resistant P. thunbergii introduced from Japan and susceptible P. thunbergii native to China were used to investigate the effects of different lines inoculated with PWN. We determined the expression levels of the terpene synthesis-related genes geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase 1 (HMDH1), two kinds of alpha-farnesene synthase (PT) genes. The types and the relative percentage content of terpenoids in the pine needles were also determined by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Results show that the growth, population size and migration of PWNs were significantly inhibited. The expression of terpene synthesis genes in the resistant P. thunbergii was higher than that in the susceptible one. The analysis of terpenoids revealed a total of 41 terpenoids, of which resistant P. thunbergii contained 39 and susceptible P. thunbergii only 28; 14 terpenoids were specific to resistant P. thunbergii, in which 8 of the terpenoids were constitutive terpenes and 6 were inducible terpenes. There were 3 terpenes unique to the susceptible P. thunbergii, and only 1 inducible terpene. Our results showed that the reduction in the expression of disease symptom and suppression of PWNs in resistant P. thunbergii was likely related to differences in the types and content of resistance-related substances in the trees. This study does not specifically connect elevated compounds in resistant P. thunbergii to resistance to PWN and assays should be conducted to establish direct effects of terpenoids on pinewood nematode activity and reproduction.
Crown Structure Metrics to Generalize Aboveground Biomass Estimation Model Using Airborne Laser Scanning Data in National Park of Hainan Tropical Rainforest, China
Authors: Li Chenyun , Yu Zhexiu , Wang Shaojie , Wu Fayun , Wen Kunjian , Qi Jianbo , Huang Huaguo
Published: July 2022

Forest aboveground biomass (AGB) is an important indicator for characterizing forest ecosystem structures and functions. Therefore, how to effectively investigate forest AGB is a vital mission. Airborne laser scanning (ALS) has been demonstrated as an effective way to support investigation and operational applications among a wide range of applications in the forest inventory. Moreover, three-dimensional structure information relating to AGB can be acquired by airborne laser scanning. Many studies estimated AGB from variables that were extracted from point cloud data, but few of them took full advantage of variables related to tree crowns to estimate the AGB. In this study, the main objective was to evaluate and compare the capabilities of different metrics derived from point clouds obtained from ALS. Particularly, individual tree-based alpha-shape, along with other traditional and commonly used plot-level height and intensity metrics, have been used from airborne laser scanning data. We took the random forest and multiple stepwise linear regression to estimate the AGB. By comparing AGB estimates with field measurements, our results showed that the best approach is mixed metrics, and the best estimation model is random forest (R2 = 0.713, RMSE = 21.064 t/ha, MAE = 15.445 t/ha), which indicates that alpha-shape may be a good alternative method to improve AGB estimation accuracy. This method provides an effective solution for estimating aboveground biomass from airborne laser scanning.
Microbial Residue Distribution in Microaggregates Decreases with Stand Age in Subtropical Plantations
Authors: Jing Yanli , Zhao Xuechao , Liu Shengen , Tian Peng , Sun Zhaolin , Chen Longchi , Wang Qingkui
Published: July 2022

Soil microbial residues contribute to the majority of stable soil organic carbon (SOC) pools, and their distribution among aggregate fractions determines long-term soil carbon (C) stability and, consequently, soil productivity. However, how microbial residue accumulation and distribution respond to stand age remains unexplored. To fill this knowledge gap, we investigated microbial residues in bulk soil and soil aggregate fractions under a chronosequence of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata [Lamb.] Hook) plantations with stands aged 3, 17, 27, and 36 years. The results showed that microbial residues in topsoil did not change across the different stand ages, but the residues in the subsoil increased from 3 to 17 years of age and then remained constant. Moreover, microbial residue distribution in microaggregates decreased with stand age, and the residue distribution in small macroaggregates was lower at age 17 years than at other stand ages. The effect of stand age on microbial residue distribution was due to the fact of their effect on aggregate distribution but not microbial residue concentrations in aggregate fractions. Collectively, our results indicate that microbial residue stability decreased with stand age, which has significant implications for the management of SOC in subtropical plantations.
Proof-of-Concept Studies Demonstrate That Food and Pheromone Stimuli Can Be Used to Attract Invasive Carp So Their Presence Can Be Readily Measured Using Environmental DNA
Authors: Ghosal Ratna , Coulter Alison A. , Sorensen Peter W.
Published: July 2022

The utility of environmental DNA (eDNA) as a detection tool for fisheries management is limited by dilution and degradation, especially in areas of low fish abundance. This proof-of-concept study addressed these challenges by testing whether food or pheromones might be used to attract invasive carp so they can be measured more readily using eDNA. In two experiments, PIT-tagged carp were stocked into ponds (N = 3 for silver carp; N = 1 for common carp) while one of two stimuli (planktonic food [spirulina] for silver carp and a sex pheromone [prostaglandin F2α] for male common carp) was added to determine if we could attract fish to one side while measuring both fish presence (detections) and eDNA concentrations. The addition of spirulina increased detections of silver carp by 2–3 fold, while eDNA concentrations increased by 4-fold on the test side when compared to the side without the stimulus. The addition of the sex pheromone increased detections of common carp by ~25-fold, where a 6-fold increase in eDNA concentrations was measured (p < 0.05). A strong positive correlation was noted between fish presence and eDNA concentration for both species. These experiments demonstrate that food and pheromone stimuli could be used to attract invasive carp so they could be measured more easily and accurately.
Food Industry Views on Pulse Flour—Perceived Intrinsic and Extrinsic Challenges for Product Utilization
Authors: Sadohara Rie , Winham Donna M. , Cichy Karen A.
Published: July 2022

Pulses such as beans, chickpeas, peas, and lentils are typically consumed whole, but pulse flours will increase their versatility and drive consumption. Beans are the most produced pulse crop in the United States, although their flour use is limited. To expand commercial applications, knowledge of pulse flour attributes important to the food industry is needed. This research aimed to understand the food industry’s needs and barriers for pulse flour utilization. An online survey invitation was sent via direct email to individuals employed in food companies developing wheat flour products. A survey weblink was distributed by pulse commodity boards to their membership. Survey questions asked food manufacturers about intrinsic factors of pulse flours that were satisfactory or challenging, and extrinsic factors for use such as market demand. Of the 75 complete responses, 21 currently or had previously used pulse flours in products, and 54 were non-users of pulse flours. Ten users indicated that there were challenges with pulse flours while five did not. Two of the most selected challenges of end-product qualities were flavor and texture. Over half of the respondents were unfamiliar with bean flour. Increasing awareness of bean flours and their attributes coupled with market demand for pulse flour-based products may be the most important extrinsic factors to increasing use among food manufacturers rather than supply or cost.
Valorization of Traditional Alcoholic Beverages: The Study of the Sicilian Amarena Wine during Bottle Aging
Authors: Di Bella Giuseppa , Porretti Miriam , Albergamo Ambrogina , Mucari Claudio , Tropea Alessia , Rando Rossana , Nava Vincenzo , Lo Turco Vincenzo , Potortì Angela Giorgia
Published: July 2022

Traditional alcoholic beverages have always been part of the Mediterranean culture and, lately, they have been re-evaluated to valorize both the territory and local customs. In this study, the Amarena wine, a fortified wine included in the national list of the traditional agri-food products, was characterized during bottle aging for oenological parameters, chromaticity, volatiles, and inorganic elements. Then, experimental data were visually interpreted by a principal component analysis (PCA). PCA revealed that most of oenological parameters (i.e., alcoholic grade, total dry extract, sugars, organic acids, and phenolic compounds) had a scarce discriminating power. Additionally, ethyl esters were only present in younger products, while remaining at quite constant levels. Conversely, certain metals (i.e., Mg, Na, Mn, Zn, and Cu), chromatic properties, and pH differentiated older Amarena bottles from the younger counterpart. Particularly, acetaldehyde and furanic compounds proved to be valid aging markers. A sensorial analysis highlighted that fruity and floral odors and flavors characterized younger beverages, while dried fruity, nutty, and spicy notes were displayed by older products, along with the valuable attribute of “oxidized” typically observed in aged Sherry wines. Overall, this study may encourage the production and commercialization of the Amarena wine, thus preserving the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean area.
High-Throughput Flow Injection Analysis–Mass Spectrometry (FIA-MS) Fingerprinting for the Authentication of Tea Application to the Detection of Teas Adulterated with Chicory
Authors: Vilà Mònica , Bedmar Àlex , Saurina Javier , Núñez Oscar , Sentellas Sònia
Published: July 2022

Tea is a broadly consumed beverage worldwide that is susceptible to fraudulent practices, including its adulteration with other plants such as chicory extracts. In the present work, a non-targeted high-throughput flow injection analysis-mass spectrometry (FIA-MS) fingerprinting methodology was employed to characterize and classify different varieties of tea (black, green, red, oolong, and white) and chicory extracts by principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). Detection and quantitation of frauds in black and green tea extracts adulterated with chicory were also evaluated as proofs of concept using partial least squares (PLS) regression. Overall, PLS-DA showed that FIA-MS fingerprints in both negative and positive ionization modes were excellent sample chemical descriptors to discriminate tea samples from chicory independently of the tea product variety as well as to classify and discriminate among some of the analyzed tea groups. The classification rate was 100% in all the paired cases—i.e., each tea product variety versus chicory—by PLS-DA calibration and prediction models showing their capability to assess tea authentication. The results obtained for chicory adulteration detection and quantitation using PLS were satisfactory in the two adulteration cases evaluated (green and black teas adulterated with chicory), with calibration, cross-validation, and prediction errors below 5.8%, 8.5%, and 16.4%, respectively. Thus, the non-targeted FIA-MS fingerprinting methodology demonstrated to be a high-throughput, cost-effective, simple, and reliable approach to assess tea authentication issues.
Effect of Partial Substitution of Flour with Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) Powder on Dough and Biscuit Properties
Authors: Xie Xinyuan , Yuan Zhihe , Fu Kai , An Jianhui , Deng Lingli
Published: July 2022

Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) is a type of edible insect rich in protein that has become popular as a protein-alternative ingredient in flour-based products to improve the nutritional properties of baking products. The mealworm powder substitution affected the pasting, farinograph, extensograph properties of wheat flour and the texture, nutritional, and sensory properties of the resulting soda biscuit. The pasting parameters (peak viscosity, trough viscosity, breakdown viscosity, final viscosity, and setback viscosity) and the water absorption decreased with the increased mealworm powder substitution level, which was ascribed to the dilution effect of mealworm powder. The farinograph parameters remained similar up to 15% substitution level. The extensograph results showed that mealworm powder substitution decreased the elastic properties of wheat dough as indicated by the consistently decreased extensibility, stretching energy, and stretching resistance, resulting in a significantly decreased baking expansion ratio of the soda biscuit. The protein, lipid, and dietary fiber content of the biscuits increased accordingly with the increased mealworm powder substitution level. The protein content of the soda biscuit was gradually increased from 9.13/100 g for the control (M0) to 16.0/100 g for that supplemented with 20% mealworm powder (M20), accompanied with the significantly increased essential amino acid content. Meanwhile, the fat and dietary fiber content of M20 exhibited 20.5 and 21.7% increase compared to those of M0. The score of the sensory attributes showed no significant difference up to 15% substitution level. The results demonstrated the 15% mealworm powder substitution level would not significantly affect the farinograph property, microstructure of wheat dough, and sensory acceptability.
Graphene Oxide/Polyethylenimine Aerogels for the Removal of Hg(II) from Water
Authors: Borrás Alejandro , Henriques Bruno , Gonçalves Gil , Fraile Julio , Pereira Eduarda , López-Periago Ana M. , Domingo Concepción
Published: July 2022

This article reports the synthesis of an aerogel involving reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and polyethylenimine (PEI), and describes its potential application as an effective sorbent to treat Hg(II) contaminated water. The rGO/PEI sorbent was synthetized using a supercritical CO2 method. N2 physisorption, electron microscopy, and elemental mapping were applied to visualize the meso/macroporous morphology formed by the supercritical drying. The advantages of the synthetized materials are highlighted with respect to the larger exposed GO surface for the PEI grafting of aerogels vs. cryogels, homogeneous distribution of the nitrogenated amino groups in the former and, finally, high Hg(II) sorption capacities. Sorption tests were performed starting from water solutions involving traces of Hg(II). Even though, the designed sorbent was able to eliminate almost all of the metal from the water phase, attaining in very short periods of time residual Hg(II) values as low as 3.5 µg L−1, which is close to the legal limits of drinking water of 1–2 µg L−1. rGO/PEI exhibited a remarkably high value for the maximum sorption capacity of Hg(II), in the order of 219 mg g−1. All of these factors indicate that the designed rGO/PEI aerogel can be considered as a promising candidate to treat Hg(II) contaminated wastewater.
Comparative Analysis of the Complete Chloroplast Genomes in Allium Section Bromatorrhiza Species (Amaryllidaceae): Phylogenetic Relationship and Adaptive Evolution
Authors: Chen Junpei , Xie Dengfeng , He Xingjin , Yang Yi , Li Xufeng
Published: July 2022

With the development of molecular sequencing approaches, many taxonomic and phylogenetic problems of the genus Allium L. have been solved; however, the phylogenetic relationships of some subgenera or sections, such as section Bromatorrhiza, remain unresolved, which has greatly impeded our full understanding of the species relationships among the major clades of Allium. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genomes of nine species in the Allium sect. Bromatorrhiza were determined using the Illumina paired-end sequencing, the NOVOPlasty de novo assembly strategy, and the PGA annotation method. The results showed that the cp genome exhibited high conservation and revealed a typical circular tetrad structure. Among the sect. Bromatorrhiza species, the gene content, SSRs, codon usage, and RNA editing site were similar. The genome structure and IR regions’ fluctuation were investigated while genes, CDSs, and non-coding regions were extracted for phylogeny reconstruction. Evolutionary rates (Ka/Ks values) were calculated, and positive selection analysis was further performed using the branch-site model. Five hypervariable regions were identified as candidate molecular markers for species authentication. A clear relationship among the sect. Bromatorrhiza species were detected based on concatenated genes and CDSs, respectively, which suggested that sect. Bromatorrhiza is monophyly. In addition, there were three genes with higher Ka/Ks values (rps2, ycf1, and ycf2), and four genes (rpoC2, atpF, atpI, and rpl14) were further revealed to own positive selected sites. These results provide new insights into the plastome component, phylogeny, and evolution of Allium species.
Comprehensive Analysis of HMCN1 Somatic Mutation in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gong Ziqi , Wu Xiaowen , Guo Qian , Du Haizhen , Zhang Fenghao , Kong Yan
Published: July 2022

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common malignancy of the genitourinary system and clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most representative subtype. The morbidity and mortality of ccRCC have gradually risen during recent years; however, the pathogenesis and potential biomarkers remain unclear. The purpose of our study was to find out prognostic genes correlated with somatic mutation and the underlying mechanisms of HMCN1 mutation in ccRCC. Methods: Somatic mutation data of two ccRCC cohorts were acquired from TCGA and cBioPortal. Genes frequently mutated in both datasets were extracted, from which tumor mutation burden and survival analysis revealed three prognostic genes. Further comprehensive analysis of HMCN1 mutation was carried out to identify differentially expressed genes and apply functional annotations. The correlation of HMCN1 mutation and tumor immunity was also evaluated. Results: HMCN1, SYNE1, and BAP1 mutations were associated with both tumor mutation burden and clinical prognosis in ccRCC. Gene enrichment analysis suggested the effects of HMCN1 mutation on biological processes and pathways linked to energy metabolism. HMCN1 mutation was also correlated with anti-tumor immunity. There were several limitations in the sample size and cohort availability of the present computational study. Conclusions: The present results inferred that HMCN1 mutation might have an important clinical significance for ccRCC patients by regulating metabolism and the immune microenvironment.
Clinical Features and Novel Genetic Variants Associated with Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome
Authors: Chen Chonglin , Wang Ruixin , Yuan Yongguang , Li Jun , Yu Xinping
Published: July 2022

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) is a rare autosomal recessive syndromic form of albinism, characterized by oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) and other systemic complications. The purpose of this study was to investigate patients with HPS-associated gene mutations and describe associated ocular and extraocular phenotypes. Fifty-four probands clinically diagnosed as albinism were enrolled. Ophthalmic examinations and genetic testing were performed in all subjects. The phenotypic and genetic features were evaluated. HPS-associated gene mutation was identified in four of the patients with albinism phenotype. Clinically, photophobia, and nystagmus was detected in all (4/4) patients, and strabismus was found in one (1/4) patient. Fundus examination revealed fundus hypopigmentation and foveal hypoplasia in all (8/8) eyes. Eight novel causative mutations were detected in these four HPS probands. Five (62.5%, 5/8) of the mutations were nonsense, two of the mutations were missense (25%, 2/8), and one of the mutations was frameshift (12.5%, 1/8). All patients in our study carried compound heterozygous variants, and all these pathogenic variants were identified to be novel, with most (62.5%, 5/8) of the mutations being nonsense. Our results improved the understanding of clinical ocular features, and expanded the spectrum of known variants and the genetic background of HPS.
The Importance of Behavioral and Native Factors on COVID-19 Infection and Severity: Insights from a Preliminary Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aouissi Hani Amir , Kechebar Mohamed Seif Allah , Ababsa Mostefa , Roufayel Rabih , Neji Bilel , Petrisor Alexandru-Ionut , Hamimes Ahmed , Epelboin Loïc , Ohmagari Norio
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on a global scale. Understanding the innate and lifestyle-related factors influencing the rate and severity of COVID-19 is important for making evidence-based recommendations. This cross-sectional study aims at establishing a potential relationship between human characteristics and vulnerability/resistance to SARS-CoV-2. We hypothesize that the impact of the virus is not the same due to cultural and ethnic differences. A cross-sectional study was performed using an online questionnaire. The methodology included the development of a multi-language survey, expert evaluation, and data analysis. Data were collected using a 13-item pre-tested questionnaire based on a literature review between 9 December 2020 and 21 July 2021. Data were statistically analyzed using logistic regression. For a total of 1125 respondents, 332 (29.5%) were COVID-19 positive; among them, 130 (11.5%) required home-based treatment, and 14 (1.2%) intensive care. The significant and most influential factors on infection included age, physical activity, and health status (p < 0.05), i.e., better physical activity and better health status significantly reduced the possibility of infection, while older age significantly increased it. The severity of infection was negatively associated with the acceptance (adherence and respect) of preventive measures and positively associated with tobacco (p < 0.05), i.e., smoking regularly significantly increases the severity of COVID-19 infection. This suggests the importance of behavioral factors compared to innate ones. Apparently, individual behavior is mainly responsible for the spread of the virus. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle and scrupulously observing preventive measures, including vaccination, would greatly limit the probability of infection and prevent the development of severe COVID-19.