bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The “chicken-leg anastomosis”: Low-cost tissue-realistic simulation model for esophageal atresia training in pediatric surgery
Authors: Palmisani Francesca , Sezen Patrick , Haag Elisabeth , Metzelder Martin L. , Krois Wilfried
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Shifting the training from the operating room (OR) to simulation models has been proven effective in enhancing patient safety and reducing the learning time to achieve competency and increase the operative efficiency. Currently the field of pediatric surgery only offers few low-cost trainers for specialized training and these feature predominantly artificial and often unrealistic tissue. The aim of this study was to develop an easy access low-cost tissue-realistic simulation model for open training of esophageal atresia and to evaluate the acceptance in trainees and junior pediatric surgeons.

Materials and methods

The model is fashioned using reconfigured chicken skin from a chicken leg. To create a model of esophageal atresia, the chicken skin is dissected off the muscle and reconfigured around a foley catheter balloon to recreate the proximal pouch and a feeding tube to recreate the distal pouch. Surrounding structures such as the tracheo-esophageal fistula and the azygos vein can be easily added, obtaining a realistic esophageal atresia (Type C) prototype. Evaluation of model construction, usage and impact on user were performed by both a self-assessment questionnaire with pre- and post-training questions as well as observer-based variables and a revised Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score.

Results

A total of 10 participants were constructing and using the model at two different timepoints. OSATS score for overall performance was significantly higher (p = 0.005, z = −2.78) during the second observational period [median (MD): 4,95% confidence interval CI: 3.4, 5.1] compared to the first (MD: 3, 95% CI 2.4, 4.1). Self-reported boost in confidence after model usage for performing future esophageal atresia (EA) repair and bowel anastomosis (BA) in general was significantly higher (EA: U = 1, z = −2.3, p = 0.021, BA: U = 1, z = −2.41, p = 0.016) in participants with more years in training/attending status (EA MD:5, BA MD: 5.5) compared to less experienced participants (EA MD: 1.5, BA: 1).

Conclusion

Our easy access low-cost simulation model represents a feasible and tissue realistic training option to increase surgical performance of pediatric surgical trainees outside the OR.
Development and validation of a nomogram for the early prediction of drug resistance in children with epilepsy
Authors: Geng Hua , Chen Xuqin
Published: August 2022

Background and purpose

This study aimed to effectively identify children with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in the early stage of epilepsy, and take personalized interventions, to improve patients' prognosis, reduce serious comorbidity, and save social resources. Herein, we developed and validated a nomogram prediction model for children with DRE.

Methods

The training set was patients with epilepsy who visited the Children's Hospital of Soochow University (Suzhou Industrial Park, Jiangsu Province, China) between January 2015 and December 2017. The independent risk factors for DRE were screened by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses using SPSS21 software. The nomogram was designed according to the regression coefficient. The nomogram was validated in the training and validation sets. Internal validation was conducted using bootstrapping analyses. We also externally validated this instrument in patients with epilepsy from the Children's Hospital of Soochow University (Gusu District, Jiangsu Province, China) and Yancheng Maternal and Child Health Hospital between January 2018 and December 2018. The nomogram's performance was assessed by concordance (C-index), calibration curves, as well as GiViTI calibration belts.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis of 679 children with epilepsy from the Children's Hospital of Soochow University (Suzhou Industrial Park, Jiangsu Province, China) showed that onset age<1, status epilepticus (SE), focal seizure, > 20 pre-treatment seizures, clear etiology (caused by genetic, structural, metabolic, or infectious), development and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE), and neurological abnormalities were all independent risk factors for DRE. The AUC of 0.92 for the training set compared to that of 0.91 for the validation set suggested a good discrimination ability of the prediction model. The C-index was 0.92 and 0.91 in the training and validation sets. Additionally, both good calibration curves and GiViTI calibration belts (P-value: 0.849 and 0.291, respectively) demonstrated that the predicted risks had strong consistency with the observed outcomes, suggesting that the prediction model in both groups was perfectly calibrated.

Conclusion

A nomogram prediction model for DRE was developed, with good discrimination and calibration in the training set and the validation set. Furthermore, the model demonstrated great accuracy, consistency, and prediction ability. Therefore, the nomogram prediction model can aid in the timely identification of DRE in children.
Intraoperative Neuromonitoring for Pediatric Pelvic Tumors
Authors: Crocoli Alessandro , Martucci Cristina , Randi Franco , Ponzo Viviana , Trucchi Alessandro , De Pasquale Maria Debora , Marras Carlo Efisio , Inserra Alessandro
Published: August 2022

Background

Tumors of the pre-sacral and sacral spaces are a rare occurrence in children. Total tumor excision is required due to the significant risk of relapse in the event of partial surgery, but the surgical procedure may lead to postoperative problems such as urinary, sexual, and anorectal dysfunctions. Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) has gained popularity in recent years as a strategy for preventing the onset of neurologic impairments by combining several neurophysiological techniques. The aim of our study is to describe the experience of Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital in the use of IONM in pediatric pelvic surgery.

Materials and Methods

The data of patients treated for pelvic malignancies at Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital from 2015 to 2019 were retrospectively collected. All patients were assessed from a neurologic and neuro-urologic point of view at different time-points (before and immediately after surgery, after 6 months, and 1-year follow-up). They were all monitored during a surgical procedure using multimodal IONM including transcranial motor evoked potentials (TcMEP), triggered-EMG (t-EMG), pudendal somatosensory evoked potentials (PSSEP), and bulbocavernosus reflex (BCR).

Results

During the study period, ten children underwent pelvic tumor removal at our Institution. In all cases, intraoperative neurophysiological recordings were stable and feasible. The preservation of neurophysiological response at the same intensity during surgical procedures correlated with no new deficits for all neurophysiological techniques.

Discussion

Although the impact of the IONM on surgical strategies and clinical follow-up is unknown, this preliminary experience suggests that the appropriate use of several neurophysiological techniques can influence both the radicality of pelvic tumor removal and the neurological and urological outcome at clinical follow-up. Finally, because of the highly complex anatomy and inter-individual variances, this is especially useful in this type of surgery.
Anti-Osteoclast Effect of Exportin-1 Inhibitor Eltanexor on Osteoporosis Depends on Nuclear Accumulation of IκBα–NF-κB p65 Complex
Authors: Chen Junchun , Song Dezhi , Xu Yang , Wu Liwei , Tang Lili , Su YuanGang , Xie Xiaoxiao , Zhao Jinmin , Xu Jiake , Liu Qian
Published: August 2022

Osteoporosis affects around 200 million people globally, with menopausal women accounting for the bulk of cases. In the occurrence and development of osteoporosis, a key role is played by osteoclasts. Excessive osteoclast-mediated bone resorption activity reduces bone mass and increases bone fragility, resulting in osteoporosis. Thus, considerable demand exists for designing effective osteoporosis treatments based on targeting osteoclasts. Eltanexor (Elt; KPT-8602) is a selective nuclear-export inhibitor that covalently binds to and blocks the function of the nuclear-export protein exportin-1 (XPO1), which controls the nucleus-to-cytoplasm transfer of certain critical proteins related to growth regulation and tumor suppression, such as p53, IκBα [nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) inhibitor α] and FOXO1; among these proteins, IκBα, a critical component of the NF-κB signaling pathway that primarily governs NF-κB activation and transcription. How Elt treatment affects osteoclasts remains poorly elucidated. Elt inhibited the growth and activity of RANKL-induced osteoclasts in vitro in a dose-dependent manner, and Elt exerted no cell-killing effect within the effective inhibitory concentration. Mechanistically, Elt was found to trap IκBα in the nucleus and thus protect IκBα from proteasome degradation, which resulted in the blocking of the translocation of IκBα and NF-κB p65 and the consequent inhibition of NF-κB activity. The suppression of NF-κB activity, in turn, inhibited the activity of two transcription factors (NFATc1 and c-Fos) essential for osteoclast formation and led to the downregulation of genes and proteins related to bone resorption. Our study thus provides a newly identified mechanism for targeting in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Flipped classroom improves student learning outcome in Chinese pharmacy education: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Wei , Xiong Ying , Wei Jingwen , Chen Xiuping , Huai Wenying , He Sike , Liu Dan , Tian Xiaoping , Tang Songqi , Chen Yunhui
Published: August 2022

Background: The application of flipped classroom (FC) pedagogy has recently become increasingly popular in Chinese pharmacy education. However, its effectiveness in improving student learning has not yet been assessed. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of teaching with such pedagogical approach by examining studies that compare the FC approach with the traditional lecture-based learning (LBL) module through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods: Seven databases, including the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Scientific Journals Database, Chinese Wanfang database, and China Biomedical Literature Database, were searched from the inception to 30 June 2021, to identify eligible articles of randomized controlled studies. The primary outcomes included the theoretical and experimental test scores, and the secondary outcomes were the results from questionnaires about the number of students who preferred the FC or endorsed its improving effects on their learning enthusiasm, self-learning ability, thinking skills, communication skills, and learning efficiency. The quantitative synthesis was conducted with Revman V.5.3 software following the Cochrane Reviewer’s Handbook guidelines and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

Results: Eleven eligible studies published from 2017 to 2020 enrolling 1,200 students were included in this meta-analysis. The quantitative synthesis demonstrated that the FC module presented an overall more significant effectiveness over traditional LBL approach for Chinese pharmacy education in improving student academic performance as measured by theoretical test scores (SMD = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.60–1.56, p < 0.00001) and experimental test scores (MD = 6.62, 95% CI: 4.42–8.82, p < 0.00001). Further sub-group analysis revealed that the preferable effectiveness of FC was also evident in both theory-oriented (SMD = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.10–1.45, p < 0.00001) and experiments-oriented courses (MD = 6.52, 95% CI: 3.48–9.56, p < 0.00001) for both undergraduate (SMD = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.31–1.37, p < 0.00001) and 3-year junior-college students (MD = 8.17, 95% CI: 6.44–9.89, p < 0.00001). Additionally, analysis on the questionnaire outcomes revealed that more respondents preferred for FC and endorsed its improvement effects on developing students’ learning enthusiasm, self-learning ability, thinking skills, communication skills, and learning efficiency.

Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that FC pedagogical approach can effectively improve student learning outcomes and is applicable to Chinese pharmacy education.
The impact of CYP2D6*41 on CYP2D6 enzyme activity using phenotyping methods in urine, plasma, and saliva
Authors: Jin Ye , Zhang Shuquan , Hu Pei , Zheng Xin , Guan Xiaoduo , Chen Rui , Zhang Shuyang
Published: August 2022

Aims: The CYP2D6*41 variant is the second or third frequent reduced function allele in Chinese with a frequency of around 3–4%, while it is the major reduced function allele in Indians, Saudi Arabians and Caucasians with frequencies of around 10–20%. The present study was designed to explore the impact of CYP2D6*41 on the metabolic activity of CYP2D6 using phenotyping methods in urine, plasma, and saliva.

Methods: We used dextromethorphan as the probe drug to analyze the phenotypes of 87 subjects with CYP2D6*1/*1 (n = 22), CYP2D6*1/*2 (n = 33), CYP2D6*2/*2 (n = 4), CYP2D6*1/*41 (n = 5), CYP2D6*2/*41 (n = 3), CYP2D6*10/*41 (n = 16), and CYP2D6*5/*41 (n = 4) for CYP2D6. The ratio of parent drug to metabolite in 3 h saliva, 3 h plasma, and in 0–3 h urine was considered the metabolic ratio (MR).

Results: The CYP2D6*41 allele had substantial impact on the metabolic activity of CYP2D6 regardless of the urinary, plasma, or salivary phenotyping method used. In subjects with CYP2D6*1(or *2)/*1(or *2), *1 (or *2)/*41, *10/*41 and *5/*41 (all p < 0.001), the salivary, plasma, or urinary MR value increased. The MRs in saliva, plasma, and urine displayed high correlations.

Conclusion: The activity score system or the consensus activity score system, instead of the traditional phenotype classification, could predict the CYP2D6 enzyme activity more accurately. CYP2D6*41 had similar or more impact on the CYP2D6 enzyme activity as compared with CYP2D6*10. Assigning *41 a score of 0.5 and assigning *10 a score of 0.25 according to the consensus AS system should be reconsidered.
Protective effects of menthol against sepsis-induced hepatic injury: Role of mediators of hepatic inflammation, apoptosis, and regeneration
Authors: Matouk Asmaa I. , El-Daly Mahmoud , Habib Heba A. , Senousy Shaymaa , Naguib Abdel Hafez Sara Mohamed , Kasem AlShaimaa W. , Almalki Waleed Hassan , Alzahrani Abdulaziz , Alshehri Ahmed , Ahmed Al-Shaimaa F.
Published: August 2022

Liver dysfunction in sepsis is a major complication that amplifies multiple organ failure and increases the risk of death. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the main mediators in the pathophysiology of sepsis. Therefore, we investigated the role of menthol, a natural antioxidant, against sepsis-induced liver injury in female Wistar rats. Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Menthol (100 mg/kg) was given intragastric 2 h after CLP. Blood samples and liver tissues were collected 24 h after surgery. Menthol significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated the sepsis-induced elevation in serum liver enzymes and improved the hepatic histopathological changes. Menthol treatment significantly (p < 0.05) decreased hepatic levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, malondialdehyde, total nitrite, and cleaved caspase-3. It restored the hepatic levels of superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione. Additionally, menthol significantly (p < 0.05) increased hepatic levels of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2); an anti-apoptotic factor, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), a biomarker of regeneration and survival. Our results showed the therapeutic potential of menthol against liver injury induced by sepsis.
A network-based pharmacological investigation to identify the mechanistic regulatory pathway of andrographolide against colorectal cancer
Authors: Janani Balakarthikeyan , Vijayakumar Mayakrishnan , Priya Kannappan , Kim Jin Hee , Geddawy Ayman , Shahid Mohammad , El-Bidawy Mahmoud H. , Al-Ghamdi Sameer , Alsaidan Mohammed , Abdelzaher Mohammad Hassan , Mohideen Abubucker Peer , Ramesh Thiyagarajan
Published: August 2022

Traditional cancer treatments have posed numerous obstacles, including toxicity, multiple drug resistance, and financial cost. On the contrary, bioactive phytochemicals used in complementary alternative medicine have recently increased attention due to their potential to modulate a wide range of molecular mechanisms with a less toxic effect. Therefore, we investigated the potential regulatory mechanisms of andrographolide to treat colorectal cancer (CRC) using a network pharmacology approach. Target genes of andrographolide were retrieved from public databases (PharmMapper, Swiss target prediction, Targetnet, STITCH, and SuperPred), while targets related to CRC were retrieved from disease databases (Genecards and DisGeNet) and expression datasets (GSE32323 and GSE8671) were retrieved from gene expression omnibus (GEO). Protein-protein interaction networks (PPI) were generated using STRING and Cytoscape, and hub genes were identified by topology analysis and MCODE. Annotation of target proteins was performed using Gene Ontology (GO) database DAVID and signaling pathway enrichment analysis using the Kyoto Encyclopedia and Genome Database (KEGG). Survival and molecular docking analysis for the hub genes revealed three genes (PDGFRA, PTGS2, and MMP9) were involved in the overall survival of CRC patients, and the top three genes with the lowest binding energy include PDGFRA, MET, and MAPK1. MET gene upregulation and PDGFRA and PTGS2 gene downregulation are associated with the survival of CRC patients, as revealed by box plots and correlation analysis. In conclusion, this study has provided the first scientific evidence to support the use of andrographolide to inhibit cellular proliferation, migration, and growth, and induce apoptosis by targeting the hub genes (PDGFRA, PTGS2, MMP9, MAPK1, and MET) involved in CRC migration and invasion.
Impact of pharmacist active consultation on clinical outcomes and quality of medical care in drug-induced liver injury inpatients in general hospital wards: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Li Dongxuan , Dong Jie , Xi Xin , Huang Guili , Li Wenjun , Chen Cheng , Liu Jun , Du Qian , Liu Songqing
Published: August 2022

The utility of pharmacist consultation for drug-induced liver injury (DILI) management has not been explored. This retrospective cohort study evaluated the impact of a pharmacist active consultation (PAC) service on the management and outcome in patients with DILI. Consecutive patients meeting clinical biochemical criteria for DILI were enrolled at a tertiary teaching hospital between 1 January 2020 and 30 April 2022. The Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method was used to assess causality between drug use and liver injury for each suspected DILI patient. Included patients were grouped according to whether they received PAC, and a proportional hazard model with multivariate risk adjustment, inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW), and propensity score matching (PSM) was used to assess DILI recovery. In the PSM cohort, the quality of medical care was compared between PAC and no PAC groups. A total of 224 patients with DILI (108 who received PAC and 116 who did not) were included in the analysis. Of these patients, 11 (10%) were classified as highly probable, 58 (54%) as probable, and 39 (36%) as possible DILI in the PAC group, while six patients (5%) were classified as highly probable, 53 (46%) as probable, and 57 (49%) as possible DILI in the no PAC group (p = 0.089). During patient recovery, PAC was associated with a ∼10% increase in the cumulative 180-day recovery rate. The PAC group had a crude hazard ratio (HR) of 1.73 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.23–2.43, p = 0.001] for DILI 180-day recovery, which remained stable after multivariate risk adjustment (HR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.21–2.49, p = 0.003), IPTW (HR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.19–2.47, p = 0.003), and PSM (HR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.01–2.23, p = 0.046). In the PSM cohort, PAC was more likely to identify suspect drugs (90% vs. 60%, p < 0.001) and lead to timely withdrawal of the medication (89% vs. 57%, p < 0.001). Thus, PAC is associated with a better quality of medical care for patients with DILI and can improve patient outcomes.
Intranasal delivery: An attractive route for the administration of nucleic acid based therapeutics for CNS disorders
Authors: Shah Pranav , Lalan Manisha , Barve Kalyani
Published: August 2022

The etiologies of several cardiovascular, inflammatory, neurological, hereditary disorders, cancer, and infectious diseases have implicated changes in the genetic set up or genetic mutations as the root cause. Nucleic acid based therapeutics (NBTs) is a new class of biologics that are known to regulate gene expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level. The NBTs include oligonucleotides, nucleosides, antisense RNA, small interfering RNAs, micro RNA etc. In recent times, this new category of biologics has found enormous potential in the management of cardiovascular, inflammatory, neurological disorders, cancer, infectious diseases and organ transplantation. However, the delivery of NBTs is highly challenging in terms of target specificity (intracellular delivery), mononuclear phagocyte system uptake, stability and biodistribution. Additionally, management of the above mentioned disorders require regular and intrusive therapy making non-invasive routes preferable in comparison to invasive routes like parenteral. The nasal route is garnering focus in delivery of NBTs to the brain in the management of several CNS disorders due to the associated merits such as non-invasiveness, possibility of chronic delivery, improved patient compliance, avoidance of hepatic and gastrointestinal metabolism as well as ability to bypass the BBB. Hence in recent times, this route has been sought by the reserachers as an alternative to parenteral therapy for the delivery of several NBTs. This review shall focus on an array of NBTs delivered through nasal route, their challenges, applications and opportunities. The novel delivery systems for incorporating NBTs; their targeting strategies shall be critically reviewed. The challenges towards regulatory approvals and commercialization shall also be discussed at large. Comparison of learnings derived from the success and barriers in nasal delivery of NBTs will help in identification of futuristic opportunities for their translation from bench to bedside.
Therapeutic and prognostic potential of GPCRs in prostate cancer from multi-omics landscape
Authors: Li Shiqi , Chen Jianfang , Chen Xin , Yu Jin , Guo Yanzhi , Li Menglong , Pu Xuemei
Published: August 2022

Prostate cancer (PRAD) is a common and fatal malignancy. It is difficult to manage clinically due to drug resistance and poor prognosis, thus creating an urgent need for novel therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers. Although G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been most attractive for drug development, there have been lack of an exhaustive assessment on GPCRs in PRAD like their molecular features, prognostic and therapeutic values. To close this gap, we herein systematically investigate multi-omics profiling for GPCRs in the primary PRAD by analyzing somatic mutations, somatic copy-number alterations (SCNAs), DNA methylation and mRNA expression. GPCRs exhibit low expression levels and mutation frequencies while SCNAs are more prevalent. 46 and 255 disease-related GPCRs are identified by the mRNA expression and DNA methylation analysis, respectively, complementing information lack in the genome analysis. In addition, the genomic alterations do not exhibit an observable correlation with the GPCR expression, reflecting the complex regulatory processes from DNA to RNA. Conversely, a tight association is observed between the DNA methylation and mRNA expression. The virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation further identify four potential drugs in repositioning to PRAD. The combination of 3 clinical characteristics and 26 GPCR molecular features revealed by the transcriptome and genome exhibit good performance in predicting progression-free survival in patients with the primary PRAD, providing candidates as new biomarkers. These observations from the multi-omics analysis on GPCRs provide new insights into the underlying mechanism of primary PRAD and potential of GPCRs in developing therapeutic strategies on PRAD.
Design and analysis of a dual-band THz metamaterial sensor with high refractive index sensitivity
Authors: Lu Xuejing , Ge Hongyi , Jiang Yuying , Zhang Yuan
Published: August 2022

A terahertz metamaterial comprised of an array of cross rectangular split-ring resonators (CRSRR) was proposed and analyzed for sensing applications, and it exhibited two resonances in the frequency range of 0.2–3 THz. The resonant frequencies of different resonant modes were explained using equivalent circuit models. Furthermore, the influence on equivalent capacitance and inductance of the circuit with respect to different geometrical dimensions of the CRSRR structure were analyzed, and the results indicated that the resonant frequencies of the proposed metamaterial can be designed as the desired value by adjusting the CRSRR unit geometry. In addition, the sensing performances of the metamaterial were calculated based on the optimized structure, showing that it had high refractive index sensitivity of 309 and 730 GHz/RIU at two resonant frequencies, respectively. Meanwhile, such ability to operate at two frequency bands enabled the designed sensor could characterize the identical samples at different frequencies, thereby increasing the sensing sensitivity and decreasing the impact of environmental disturbance. Our study opens up new prospects in the design of terahertz metamaterial sensors with high sensitivity in a multi-band range, which is essential to meet increasing needs in terahertz sensing.
Design of a mobile 3D imaging system based on 2D LIDAR and calibration with levenberg–marquardt optimization algorithm
Authors: Miao Ruikai , Liu Xinyue , Pang Yajun , Lang Liying
Published: August 2022

LIDAR is an excellent means to obtain the information of buildings, forests, bridges, tunnels and many other big scenes, but the high price of 3D LIDAR currently limits its further application. To meet this challenge a mobile 3D imaging system based on 2D LIDAR is proposed. The system has the characteristics of large imaging range and low cost. The composition and implementation principle of each module of the system are introduced in detail and a calibration method for the 3-axis assembly error is proposed. In this method Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) optimization algorithm is used to obtain the optimal value of the 2D LIDAR 3-axis attitude angle, which is used to compensate for the point cloud distortion caused by the assembly error. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively reduce the point cloud distortion caused by assembly error. This system can meet the application demand of big scenes 3D imaging.
Isotropy frequency-domain extension imaging and its application in detection of nanostructures
Authors: Bai Jinxi , Ren Huan , Shi Zhendong , Ma Hua , Liu Lijia , Ma Ke , Chai Liqun , Zhang Lin
Published: August 2022

A wide-field high resolution microscopy with sub-micron resolution and high contrast image was demonstrated by using the isotropy frequency-domain extension imaging (IFEI), which was successfully applied to submicron-scale structure detection of fused silica wafer for the first time. Employing the frequency-domain extension and the isotropic period matching, the IFEI extended the bandwidth of coherent transfer function of the conventional wide-field microscopy, thereby improving the resolution to break the diffraction limit. In this method, a quantitative measurement of 200 nm was achieved using fused silica wafer with prefabricated etched structure on the surface. By imaging 81 nm gold nanoparticles, the system resolution calibration was achieved. And corresponding system’s lateral resolution of approximately 179.5 nm was obtained, which was 1.72 times higher than the conventional wide-field microscopy image. Moreover, the reconstructed IFEI images of ultra-precision processed fused silica optics were demonstrated to present the finer structures of sub-micron digs and scratches formed in the optics manufacturing process.
Sirtuins functions in central nervous system cells under neurological disorders
Authors: Yan Jing , Tang Xiaole , Zhou Zhi-qiang , Zhang Jie , Zhao Yilin , Li Shiyong , Luo Ailin
Published: August 2022

The sirtuins (SIRTs), a class of NAD+ -dependent deacylases, contain seven SIRT family members in mammals, from SIRT1 to SIRT7. Extensive studies have revealed that SIRT proteins regulate virous cell functions. Central nervous system (CNS) decline resulted in progressive cognitive impairment, social and physical abilities dysfunction. Therefore, it is of vital importance to have a better understanding of potential target to promote homeostasis of CNS. SIRTs have merged as the underlying regulating factors of the process of neurological disorders. In this review, we profile multiple functions of SIRT proteins in different cells during brain function and under CNS injury.
A systematic review on omics data (metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and metabolomics) in the role of microbiome in gallbladder disease
Authors: Di Carlo Paola , Serra Nicola , Alduina Rosa , Guarino Riccardo , Craxì Antonio , Giammanco Anna , Fasciana Teresa , Cascio Antonio , Sergi Consolato M.
Published: August 2022

Microbiotas are the range of microorganisms (mainly bacteria and fungi) colonizing multicellular, macroscopic organisms. They are crucial for several metabolic functions affecting the health of the host. However, difficulties hamper the investigation of microbiota composition in cultivating microorganisms in standard growth media. For this reason, our knowledge of microbiota can benefit from the analysis of microbial macromolecules (DNA, transcripts, proteins, or by-products) present in various samples collected from the host. Various omics technologies are used to obtain different data. Metagenomics provides a taxonomical profile of the sample. It can also be used to obtain potential functional information. At the same time, metatranscriptomics can characterize members of a microbiome responsible for specific functions and elucidate genes that drive the microbiotas relationship with its host. Thus, while microbiota refers to microorganisms living in a determined environment (taxonomy of microorganisms identified), microbiome refers to the microorganisms and their genes living in a determined environment and, of course, metagenomics focuses on the genes and collective functions of identified microorganisms. Metabolomics completes this framework by determining the metabolite fluxes and the products released into the environment. The gallbladder is a sac localized under the liver in the human body and is difficult to access for bile and tissue sampling. It concentrates the bile produced in the hepatocytes, which drains into bile canaliculi. Bile promotes fat digestion and is released from the gallbladder into the upper small intestine in response to food. Considered sterile originally, recent data indicate that bile microbiota is associated with the biliary tract’s inflammation and carcinogenesis. The sample size is relevant for omic studies of rare diseases, such as gallbladder carcinoma. Although in its infancy, the study of the biliary microbiota has begun taking advantage of several omics strategies, mainly based on metagenomics, metabolomics, and mouse models. Here, we show that omics analyses from the literature may provide a more comprehensive image of the biliary microbiota. We review studies performed in this environmental niche and focus on network-based approaches for integrative studies.
Effects of aerobic, strength, and combined training during pregnancy in the blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Corso Marcelo , Miarka Bianca , Figueiredo Tiago , Bragazzi Nicola , Carvalho Danilo , Dias Ingrid
Published: August 2022

Gestational hypertension can lead to fetal complications, and, if untreated, high blood pressure during pregnancy may cause eclampsia and even death in the mother and fetus. Exercise is a strategy for preventing blood pressure disorders. There is little knowledge about the physiological impacts of different physical types of training on blood pressure during pregnancy. For that, this meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of different physical exercise modalities (i.e., aerobic training—AT, strength training—ST, and combined training—AT + ST) on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of pregnant women. A search was performed on PUBMED, LILACS, CINAHL, Sport discus, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to identify researchers. From 3,450 studies, 20 and 19 were included in the qualitative and quantitative analyses. AT studies presented a medium effect size (ES) on SBP [−0.29 (−2.95 to 2.36) p = 0.83], with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 64%), and had a large impact on DBP [−1.34 (−2.98 to 0.30) p = 0.11], with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 30%). ST researchers showed a large ES on SBP [−1.09 (−3.66 to 1.49) p = 0.41], with a reduced heterogeneity (I2 = 0%), and a medium ES on DBP [−0.26 (−2.77 to 2.19) p = 0.83] with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 38%). AT + ST studies had a large ES on SBP [−1.69 (−3.88 to 0.49) p = 0.13] and DBP [−01.29 (−2.26 to 0.31) p = 0.01] with considerable (I2 = 83%) and moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 47%), respectively. These findings are essential for developing new research protocols to avoid gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. AT + ST had a large impact on the SBP and DBP reduction; however, there is a need for more similar procedures to reduce heterogeneity between studies, promoting consensual results.

Systematic Review Registration: [PROSPERO], identifier [CRD42021256509].
Intra-subject stability of different expressions of spatial QRS-T angle and their relationship to heart rate
Authors: Andršová Irena , Hnatkova Katerina , Toman Ondřej , Šišáková Martina , Smetana Peter , Huster Katharina M. , Barthel Petra , Novotný Tomáš , Schmidt Georg , Malik Marek
Published: August 2022

Three-dimensional angle between the QRS complex and T wave vectors is a known powerful cardiovascular risk predictor. Nevertheless, several physiological properties of the angle are unknown or poorly understood. These include, among others, intra-subject profiles and stability of the angle relationship to heart rate, characteristics of angle/heart-rate hysteresis, and the changes of these characteristics with different modes of QRS-T angle calculation. These characteristics were investigated in long-term 12-lead Holter recordings of 523 healthy volunteers (259 females). Three different algorithmic methods for the angle computation were based on maximal vector magnitude of QRS and T wave loops, areas under the QRS complex and T wave curvatures in orthogonal leads, and weighted integration of all QRS and T wave vectors moving around the respective 3-dimensional loops. These methods were applied to orthogonal leads derived either by a uniform conversion matrix or by singular value decomposition (SVD) of the original 12-lead ECG, giving 6 possible ways of expressing the angle. Heart rate hysteresis was assessed using the exponential decay models. All these methods were used to measure the angle in 659,313 representative waveforms of individual 10-s ECG samples and in 7,350,733 individual beats contained in the same 10-s samples. With all measurement methods, the measured angles fitted second-degree polynomial regressions to the underlying heart rate. Independent of the measurement method, the angles were found significantly narrower in females (p < 0.00001) with the differences to males between 10o and 20o, suggesting that in future risk-assessment studies, different angle dichotomies are needed for both sexes. The integrative method combined with SVD leads showed the highest intra-subject reproducibility (p < 0.00001). No reproducible delay between heart rate changes and QRS-T angle changes was found. This was interpreted as a suggestion that the measurement of QRS-T angle might offer direct assessment of cardiac autonomic responsiveness at the ventricular level.
Perceived impact of the menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptives on physical exercise and performance in 1,086 athletes from 57 sports
Authors: Ekenros Linda , von Rosen Philip , Solli Guro Strøm , Sandbakk Øyvind , Holmberg Hans-Christer , Hirschberg Angelica Lindén , Fridén Cecilia
Published: August 2022

Female athletes train and compete under the potential influence of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle or during use of various hormonal contraceptives. Dysmenorrhea and premenstrual symptoms are common in the general population, as well as side effects of hormonal contraceptives. More detailed knowledge concerning prevalence and perceived impact of these symptoms on training and performance in different sports is required. The aim of the study was to 1) characterize perceptions of training and performance during the menstrual cycle phases and by hormonal contraceptive use in a large population of female athletes; 2) explore whether symptoms experienced are related to perceived performance; and 3) examine potential differences in these factors between athletes at different levels of performance. The study was based on self-reported data from 1,086 athletes from 57 sports at different performance levels via a web-based questionnaire. Thirty-seven percent (n = 407) of the athletes did not use hormonal contraceptives. In this group, menstrual cycle related symptoms were common across all athlete levels, particularly dysmenorrhea (74%, n = 300) and premenstrual symptoms (78%, n = 318), which also influenced perceived performance of aerobic fitness, muscle strength, mental sharpness, balance, and sleep quality. Sixty-three percent (n = 679) of the athletes used various hormonal contraceptives and 40% (n = 272) perceived a variety of side-effects. Physical performance was experienced equally independent of time-point of the pill-chart except for the period of inactive pills, which was associated with more negative impact. Nonetheless, only 18% (n = 191) of the athletes considered menstrual cycle or hormonal contraceptive issues when planning their training or competitions. These results indicate that greater focus is needed to identify and effectively treat different menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptive related symptoms on an individual level.
Morphological adaptation for ectosymbiont maintenance and transmission during metamorphosis in Lagria beetles
Authors: Janke Rebekka S. , Moog Safira , Weiss Benjamin , Kaltenpoth Martin , Flórez Laura V.
Published: August 2022

The diversity and success of holometabolous insects is partly driven by metamorphosis, which allows for the exploitation of different niches and decouples growth and tissue differentiation from reproduction. Despite its benefits, metamorphosis comes with the cost of temporal vulnerability during pupation and challenges associated with tissue reorganizations. These rearrangements can also affect the presence, abundance, and localization of beneficial microbes in the host. However, how symbionts are maintained or translocated during metamorphosis and which adaptations are necessary from each partner during this process remains unknown for the vast majority of symbiotic systems. Here, we show that Lagria beetles circumvent the constraints of metamorphosis by maintaining defensive symbionts on the surface in specialized cuticular structures. The symbionts are present in both sexes throughout larval development and during the pupal phase, in line with a protective role during the beetle’s immature stages. By comparing symbiont titer and morphology of the cuticular structures between sexes using qPCR, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and micro-computed tomography, we found that the organs likely play an important role as a symbiont reservoir for transmission to female adults, since symbiont titers and structures are reduced in male pupae. Using symbiont-sized fluorescent beads, we demonstrate transfer from the region of the dorsal symbiont-housing organs to the opening of the reproductive tract of adult females, suggesting that symbiont relocation on the outer surface is possible, even without specialized symbiont adaptations or motility. Our results illustrate a strategy for holometabolous insects to cope with the challenge of symbiont maintenance during metamorphosis via an external route, circumventing problems associated with internal tissue reorganization. Thereby, Lagria beetles keep a tight relationship with their beneficial partners during growth and metamorphosis.
Acute effect of kinesio tape on postural control in individuals with functional ankle instability following ankle muscle fatigue
Authors: Li Pan , Wei Zhen , Zeng Ziwei , Wang Lin
Published: August 2022

Background: Kinesio taping (KT) is one of the therapeutic interventions in sports medicine practice. The study aims to assess the acute effect of different KT methods on postural control in individuals with functional ankle instability (FAI) after ankle muscle fatigue.

Methods: Twenty-eight participants with FAI were recruited to complete maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and proprioception of ankle using isokinetic dynamometer, dynamic postural control using Y-balance test and static postural control using a force platform after a fatigue protocol in four taping conditions: facilitatory KT (FKT), ankle balance taping (ABT), sham taping (ST) and no taping (NT).

Results: No significant difference was observed for the data MVIC and proprioception after ankle muscle fatigue amongst the four taping treatments. A significant difference in Y-Balance Test was observed amongst the four taping treatments at posterolateral direction (p < 0.001) and posteromedial direction (p < 0.001), suggesting that KT may significantly improve dynamic postural control following ankle muscle fatigue. For Center of pressure (COP) measurements, the mediolateral COP sway range of NT was significantly larger than that of FKT (p = 0.003) and ST (p < 0.001), suggesting that the placebo effect of KT was inevitable.

Conclusion: The effect of KT seems increased dynamic postural control in individuals with FAI after ankle muscle fatigue, and this effect is not strongly related to the taping methods. By preventing fatigue-related impairments of postural control, KT may help reduce the risk of injury in individuals with FAI.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the TaRRA gene family in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Sun Lijing , Lv Liangjie , Zhao Jie , Hu Mengyun , Zhang Yelun , Zhao Yun , Tang Xiaodong , Wang Peinan , Li Qianying , Chen Xiyong , Li Hui , Zhang Yingjun
Published: August 2022

Cytokinin is an important endogenous hormone in plants performing a wide spectrum of biological roles. The type-A response regulators (RRAs) are primary cytokinin response genes, which are important components of the cytokinin signaling pathway and are involved in the regulation of plant growth and development. By analysis of the whole genome sequence of wheat, we identified 20 genes encoding RRAs which were clustered into eight homologous groups. The gene structure, conserved motifs, chromosomal location, and cis-acting regulatory elements of the TaRRAs were analyzed. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) results showed that the expression levels of most of the TaRRAs increased rapidly on exogenous cytokinin application. Moreover, the TaRRA family members displayed different expression profiles under the stress treatments of drought, salt, cold, and heat. This study provides valuable insights into the RRA gene family in wheat and promotes the potential application of these genes in wheat genetic improvement.
Cover crop influence on pore size distribution and biopore dynamics: Enumerating root and soil faunal effects
Authors: Lucas Maik , Nguyen Linh T. T. , Guber Andrey , Kravchenko Alexandra N.
Published: August 2022

Pore structure is a key determinant of soil functioning, and both root growth and activity of soil fauna are modified by and interact with pore structure in multiple ways. Cover cropping is a rapidly growing popular strategy for improving agricultural sustainability, including improvements in pore structure. However, since cover crop species encompass a variety of contrasting root architectures, they can have disparate effects on formation of soil pores and their characteristics, thus on the pore structure formation. Moreover, utilization of the existing pore systems and its modification by new root growth, in conjunction with soil fauna activity, can also vary by cover crop species, affecting the dynamics of biopores (creation and demolition). The objectives of this study were (i) to quantify the influence of 5 cover crop species on formation and size distribution of soil macropores (>36 μm Ø); (ii) to explore the changes in the originally developed pore architecture after an additional season of cover crop growth; and (iii) to assess the relative contributions of plant roots and soil fauna to fate and modifications of biopores. Intact soil cores were taken from 5 to 10 cm depth after one season of cover crop growth, followed by X-ray computed micro-tomography (CT) characterization, and then, the cores were reburied for a second root growing period of cover crops to explore subsequent changes in pore characteristics with the second CT scanning.

Our data suggest that interactions of soil fauna and roots with pore structure changed over time. While in the first season, large biopores were created at the expense of small pores, in the second year these biopores were reused or destroyed by the creation of new ones through earthworm activities and large root growth. In addition, the creation of large biopores (>0.5 mm) increased total macroporosity. During the second root growing period, these large sized macropores, however, are reduced in size again through the action of soil fauna smaller than earthworms, suggesting a highly dynamic equilibrium. Different effects of cover crops on pore structure mainly arise from their differences in root volume, mean diameter as well as their reuse of existing macropores.