bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Comparison of Five Methods for Tetrahymena Number Counting on the ImageJ Platform: Assessing the Built-in Tool and Machine-Learning-Based Extension
Authors: Kurnia Kevin Adi , Sampurna Bonifasius Putera , Audira Gilbert , Juniardi Stevhen , Vasquez Ross D. , Roldan Marri Jmelou M. , Tsao Che-Chia , Hsiao Chung-Der
Published: May 2022

Previous methods to measure protozoan numbers mostly rely on manual counting, which suffers from high variation and poor efficiency. Although advanced counting devices are available, the specialized and usually expensive machinery precludes their prevalent utilization in the regular laboratory routine. In this study, we established the ImageJ-based workflow to quantify ciliate numbers in a high-throughput manner. We conducted Tetrahymena number measurement using five different methods: particle analyzer method (PAM), find maxima method (FMM), trainable WEKA segmentation method (TWS), watershed segmentation method (WSM) and StarDist method (SDM), and compared their results with the data obtained from the manual counting. Among the five methods tested, all of them could yield decent results, but the deep-learning-based SDM displayed the best performance for Tetrahymena cell counting. The optimized methods reported in this paper provide scientists with a convenient tool to perform cell counting for Tetrahymena ecotoxicity assessment.
Functionalized Hydrogels for Cartilage Repair: The Value of Secretome-Instructive Signaling
Authors: Barisón María Julia , Nogoceke Rodrigo , Josino Raphaella , Horinouchi Cintia Delai da Silva , Marcon Bruna Hilzendeger , Correa Alejandro , Stimamiglio Marco Augusto , Robert Anny Waloski
Published: May 2022

Cartilage repair has been a challenge in the medical field for many years. Although treatments that alleviate pain and injury are available, none can effectively regenerate the cartilage. Currently, regenerative medicine and tissue engineering are among the developed strategies to treat cartilage injury. The use of stem cells, associated or not with scaffolds, has shown potential in cartilage regeneration. However, it is currently known that the effect of stem cells occurs mainly through the secretion of paracrine factors that act on local cells. In this review, we will address the use of the secretome—a set of bioactive factors (soluble factors and extracellular vesicles) secreted by the cells—of mesenchymal stem cells as a treatment for cartilage regeneration. We will also discuss methodologies for priming the secretome to enhance the chondroregenerative potential. In addition, considering the difficulty of delivering therapies to the injured cartilage site, we will address works that use hydrogels functionalized with growth factors and secretome components. We aim to show that secretome-functionalized hydrogels can be an exciting approach to cell-free cartilage repair therapy.
Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes in Resistant Tetraploid Wheat (Triticum turgidum) under Sitobion avenae (F.) Infestation
Authors: Liu Xinlun , Kou Xudan , Bai Shichao , Luo Yufeng , Wang Zhenyu , Xie Lincai , Deng Pingchuan , Zhang Hong , Wang Changyou , Wang Yajuan , Zhao Jixin , Ji Wanquan
Published: May 2022

The grain aphid Sitobion avenae (Fabricius) is one of the most destructive pests of wheat (Triticum aestivum). Deployment of resistant wheat germplasm appears as an excellent solution for this problem. Elite bread wheat cultivars only have limited resistance to this pest. The present study was carried out to investigate the potential of the tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum) variety Lanmai, which showed high resistance to S. avenae at both seedling and adult plant stages, as a source of resistance genes. Based on apterous adult aphids’ fecundity tests and choice bioassays, Lanmai has been shown to display antixenosis and antibiosis. Suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) was employed to identify and isolate the putative candidate defense genes in Lanmai against S. avenae infestation. A total of 134 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were identified and categorized based on their putative functions. RT-qPCR analysis of 30 selected genes confirmed their differential expression over time between the resistant wheat variety Lanmai and susceptible wheat variety Polan305 during S. avenae infestation. There were 11 genes related to the photosynthesis process, and only 3 genes showed higher expression in Lanmai than in Polan305 after S. avenae infestation. Gene expression analysis also revealed that Lanmai played a critical role in salicylic acid and jasmonic acid pathways after S. avenae infestation. This study provided further insights into the role of defense signaling networks in wheat resistance to S. avenae and indicates that the resistant tetraploid wheat variety Lanmai may provide a valuable resource for aphid tolerance improvement in wheat.
Kub3 Deficiency Causes Aberrant Late Embryonic Lung Development in Mice by the FGF Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yang Guangying , Lu Shan , Jiang Jia , Weng Jun , Zeng Xiaomei
Published: May 2022

As a Ku70-binding protein of the KUB family, Kub3 has previously been reported to play a role in DNA double-strand break repair in human glioblastoma cells in glioblastoma patients. However, the physiological roles of Kub3 in normal mammalian cells remain unknown. In the present study, we generated Kub3 gene knockout mice and revealed that knockout (KO) mice died as embryos after E18.5 or as newborns immediately after birth. Compared with the lungs of wild-type (WT) mice, Kub3 KO lungs displayed abnormal lung morphogenesis and pulmonary atelectasis at E18.5. No difference in cell proliferation or cell apoptosis was detected between KO lungs and WT lungs. However, the differentiation of alveolar epithelial cells and the maturation of type II epithelial cells were impaired in KO lungs at E18.5. Further characterization displayed that Kub3 deficiency caused an abnormal FGF signaling pathway at E18.5. Taking all the data together, we revealed that Kub3 deletion leads to abnormal late lung development in mice, resulting from the aberrant differentiation of alveolar epithelial cells and the immaturation of type II epithelial cells due to the disturbed FGF signaling pathway. Therefore, this study has uncovered an essential role of Kub3 in the prenatal lung development of mice which advances our knowledge of regulatory factors in embryonic lung development and provides new concepts for exploring the mechanisms of disease related to perinatal lung development.
Correction: Steppe et al. Bone Mass and Osteoblast Activity Are Sex-Dependent in Mice Lacking the Estrogen Receptor α in Chondrocytes and Osteoblast Progenitor Cells. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 2902
Authors: Steppe Lena , Bülow Jasmin , Tuckermann Jan , Ignatius Anita , Haffner-Luntzer Melanie
Published: May 2022

The authors would like to make corrections to the reference citations in the original article [...]
Metformin Reduces Potassium Currents and Prolongs Repolarization in Non-Diabetic Heart
Authors: Malagueta-Vieira Layse , Fernández-Ruocco Julieta , Hortigón-Vinagre María P. , Zamora Víctor , Zayas-Arrabal Julián , Echeazarra Leyre , Smith Godfrey L. , Vila Petroff Martín , Medei Emiliano , Casis Óscar , Gallego Mónica
Published: May 2022

Metformin is the first choice drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes due to positive results in reducing hyperglycaemia and insulin resistance. However, diabetic patients have higher risk of ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death, and metformin failed to reduce ventricular arrhythmia in clinical trials. In order to explore the mechanisms responsible for the lack of protective effect, we investigated in vivo the effect of metformin on cardiac electrical activity in non-diabetic rats; and in vitro in isolated ventricular myocytes, HEK293 cells expressing the hERG channel and human induced pluripotent stem cells derived cardiomyocytes (hIPS-CMs). Surface electrocardiograms showed that long-term metformin treatment (7 weeks) at therapeutic doses prolonged cardiac repolarization, reflected as QT and QTc interval duration, and increased ventricular arrhythmia during the caffeine/dobutamine challenge. Patch-clamp recordings in ventricular myocytes isolated from treated animals showed that the cellular mechanism is a reduction in the cardiac transient outward potassium current (Ito). In vitro, incubation with metformin for 24 h also reduced Ito, prolonged action potential duration, and increased spontaneous contractions in ventricular myocytes isolated from control rats. Metformin incubation also reduced IhERG in HEK293 cells. Finally, metformin incubation prolonged action potential duration at 30% and 90% of repolarization in hIPS-CMs, which is compatible with the reduction of Ito and IhERG. Our results show that metformin directly modifies the electrical behavior of the normal heart. The mechanism consists in the inhibition of repolarizing currents and the subsequent decrease in repolarization capacity, which prolongs AP and QTc duration.
An Insight into Recent Advances on Platelet Function in Health and Disease
Authors: Chaudhary Preeti Kumari , Kim Sanggu , Kim Soochong
Published: May 2022

Platelets play a variety of roles in vascular biology and are best recognized as primary hemostasis and thrombosis mediators. Platelets have a large number of receptors and secretory molecules that are required for platelet functionality. Upon activation, platelets release multiple substances that have the ability to influence both physiological and pathophysiological processes including inflammation, tissue regeneration and repair, cancer progression, and spreading. The involvement of platelets in the progression and seriousness of a variety of disorders other than thrombosis is still being discovered, especially in the areas of inflammation and the immunological response. This review represents an integrated summary of recent advances on the function of platelets in pathophysiology that connects hemostasis, inflammation, and immunological response in health and disease and suggests that antiplatelet treatment might be used for more than only thrombosis.
Characterization of Insecticide Response-Associated Transcripts in the Colorado Potato Beetle: Relevance of Selected Cytochrome P450s and Clothianidin
Authors: Bouafoura Raed , Bastarache Pierre , Ouédraogo Brigitte Christelle , Dumas Pascal , Moffat Chandra E. , Vickruck Jess L. , Morin Pier Jr
Published: May 2022

The Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say)) is known for its capacity to cause significant damages to potato crops worldwide. Multiple approaches have been considered to limit its spread including the use of a diverse arsenal of insecticides. Unfortunately, this insect frequently develops resistance towards these compounds. Investigating the molecular bases underlying the response of L. decemlineata against insecticides is of strong interest to ultimately devise novel and targeted approaches aimed at this pest. This work aimed to characterize, via qRT-PCR, the expression status of targets with relevance to insecticide response, including ones coding for cytochrome P450s, glutathione s-transferases, and cuticular proteins, in L. decemlineata exposed to four insecticides; chlorantraniliprole, clothianidin, imidacloprid, and spinosad. Modulation of levels associated with transcripts coding for selected cytochrome P450s was reported in insects treated with three of the four insecticides studied. Clothianidin treatment yielded the most variations in transcript levels, leading to significant changes in transcripts coding for CYP4c1, CYP4g15, CYP6a13, CYP9e2, GST, and GST-1-Like. Injection of dsRNA targeting CYP4c1 and CYP9e2 was associated with a substantial decrease in expression levels and was, in the case of the latter target, linked to a greater susceptibility of L. decemlineata towards this neonicotinoid, supporting a potential role for this target in clothianidin response. Overall, this data further highlights the differential expression of transcripts with potential relevance in insecticide response, as well as generating specific targets that warrant investigation as novel dsRNA-based approaches are developed against this insect pest.
Effects of Concurrent Aerobic Plus Resistance Training on Blood Pressure Variability and Blood Pressure Values in Patients with Hypertension and Coronary Artery Disease: Gender-Related Differences
Authors: Caminiti Giuseppe , Perrone Marco Alfonso , Volterrani Maurizio , Iellamo Ferdinando , Marazzi Giuseppe , Selli Serena , Franchini Alessio , Padua Elvira
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to compare changes in blood pressure variability (BPV) and blood pressure (BP) values occurring in response to concurrent training (CT) between the two genders. A total of 35 males and 20 women aged 55–80 years, with hypertension and coronary artery disease, were included. They underwent a 12-week CT program. The aerobic component of CT was performed according to the rate of perceived exertion while the intensity of the resistance component was set at 60% of 1 repetition maximum for the first 4 weeks and then increased to 80%. BP and BPV were evaluated at baseline and at the end of the CT program through 24 h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. After 12-weeks, 24 h and daytime systolic BPV decreased in both men and women without significant between-groups differences. Twenty-four-hour daytime and nighttime diastolic BPV decreased in both genders with a significantly greater decrease in women compared to men. Twenty-four-hour daytime systolic and 24 h diastolic BP decreased in men while they were unchanged in women. In conclusion, CT induced similar reductions of systolic BPV in men and women and a greater decrease in diastolic BPV in women. Conversely, CT decreased BP values in males but not in females. CT appears to be an effective intervention for reducing BPV in both genders.
Sarcopenia Is an Independent Risk Factor for Severe Diabetic Nephropathy in Type 2 Diabetes: A Long-Term Follow-Up Propensity Score–Matched Diabetes Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Yen-Min , Chen Wan-Ming , Chen Mingchih , Shia Ben-Chang , Wu Szu-Yuan
Published: May 2022

Background: Diabetic nephropathy is a common cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) worldwide and results in tremendous wastage of medical resources. Determining the indicators of diabetic nephropathy, such as sarcopenia, and implementing early interventions to prevent disease progression is crucial. Purpose: The effect of sarcopenia on the risk of severe diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) remains unclear. Patients and Methods: We recruited patients with T2DM and categorized them into two groups, propensity score–matched at a ratio of 1:1, according to whether they had sarcopenia. We subsequently compared the groups’ risk of severe diabetic nephropathy. Results: The matching process yielded a final cohort of 105,166 patients with T2DM (52,583 and 52,583 in the sarcopenia and nonsarcopenia groups, respectively) who were eligible for inclusion in subsequent analyses. According to both the univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) (95% confidence interval) of severe diabetic nephropathy for the sarcopenia diabetes group compared with the control group was 1.10 (1.08–1.13; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The patients with T2DM and sarcopenia were at a higher risk of severe diabetic nephropathy than were those without sarcopenia. Our results may serve as a valuable reference for relevant government authorities in establishing health policies to promote early detection of sarcopenia and exercise to help patients with T2DM overcome sarcopenia.
Minimized Extracorporeal Circulation Is Associated with Reduced Plasma Levels of Free-Circulating Mitochondrial DNA Compared to Conventional Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Secondary Analysis of an Exploratory, Prospective, Interventional Study
Authors: Zajonz Thomas , Koch Christian , Schwiddessen Jan , Markmann Melanie , Hecker Matthias , Edinger Fabian , Schmidt Götz , Boening Andreas , Sander Michael , Schneck Emmanuel
Published: May 2022

The use of minimized extracorporeal circulation (MiECC) during cardiac surgery is associated with a reduced inflammatory reaction compared to conventional cardiopulmonary bypass (cCPB). Since it is unknown if MiECC also reduces the amount of free-circulating mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), this study aims to compare MiECC-induced mtDNA release to that of cCPB as well as to identify potential relations between the plasma levels of mtDNA and an adverse outcome. Overall, 45 patients undergoing cardiac surgery with either cCPB or MiECC were included in the study. MtDNA encoding for NADH dehydrogenase 1 was quantified with quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The plasma amount of mtDNA was significantly lower in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with MiECC compared to cCPB (MiECC: 161.8 (65.5–501.9); cCPB 190.8 (82–705.7); p < 0.001). Plasma levels of mtDNA showed comparable kinetics independently of the study group and peaked during CPB (MiECC preoperative: 68.2 (26.5–104.9); MiECC 60 min after start of CPB: 536.5 (215.7–919.6); cCPB preoperative: 152.5 (80.9–207.6); cCPB 60 min after start of CPB: 1818.0 (844.2–3932.2); all p < 0.001). Patients offering an mtDNA blood concentration of >650 copies/µL after the commencement of CPB had a 5-fold higher risk for postoperative atrial fibrillation independently of the type of cardiopulmonary bypass. An amount of mtDNA being higher than 650 copies/µL showed moderate predictive power (AUROC 0.71 (0.53–071)) for the identification of postoperative atrial fibrillation. In conclusion, plasma levels of mtDNA were lower in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with MiECC compared to cCPB. The amount of mtDNA at the beginning of the CPB was associated with postoperative atrial fibrillation independent of the type of cardiopulmonary bypass.
Elevated Intrarenal Resistive Index Predicted Faster Renal Function Decline and Long-Term Mortality in Non-Proteinuric Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Romano Giulio , Mioni Roberto , Danieli Nicola , Bertoni Martina , Croatto Elisa , Merla Lucia , Alcaro Lucia , Pedduzza Antonio , Metcalf Xenia , Rigamonti Alessandra , Catena Cristiana , Sechi Leonardo A. , Colussi GianLuca
Published: May 2022

Background. Intrarenal resistive index (RI) ≥ 0.80 predicts renal outcomes in proteinuric chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, this evidence in non-proteinuric patients with CKD of unknown etiology is lacking. In this study, we assessed the effect of intrarenal RI on renal function and all-cause mortality in non-proteinuric patients with CKD of unknown etiology despite an extensive diagnostic work-up. Methods. Non-proteinuric CKD patients were evaluated in a retrospective longitudinal study. Progression of renal disease was investigated by checking serum creatinine levels at 1, 3, and 5 years and defined by a creatinine level increase of at least 0.5 mg/dL. The discrimination performance of intrarenal RI in predicting the 5-year progression of renal disease was assessed by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Results. One-hundred-thirty-one patients (76 ± 9 years, 56% males) were included. The median follow-up was 7.5 years (interquartile range 4.3–10.5) with a cumulative mortality of 53%, and 5-year renal disease progression occurred in 25%. Patients with intrarenal RI ≥ 0.80 had a faster increase of serum creatinine levels compared to those with RI < 0.80 (+0.06 mg/dL each year, 95% CI 0.02–0.10, p < 0.010). Each 0.1-unit increment of intrarenal RI was an independent determinant of 5-year renal disease progression (odds ratio 4.13, 95% CI 1.45–12.9, p = 0.010) and predictor of mortality (hazards ratio 1.80, 95% CI 1.05–3.09, p = 0.034). AUROCs of intrarenal RI for predicting 5-year renal disease progression and mortality were 0.66 (95% CI 0.57–0.76) and 0.67 (95% CI 0.58–0.74), respectively. Conclusions. In non-proteinuric patients with CKD of unknown etiology, increased intrarenal RI predicted both a faster decline in renal function and higher long-term mortality, but as a single marker, it showed poor discrimination performance.
Evolution of Mitochondrially Derived Peptides Humanin and MOTSc, and Changes in Insulin Sensitivity during Early Gestation in Women with and without Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Ruiz David , Santibañez Miguel , Lavín Bernardo Alio , Berja Ana , Montalban Coral , Vazquez Luis Alberto
Published: May 2022

Our purpose is to study the evolution of mitochondrially derived peptides (MDPs) and their relationship with changes in insulin sensitivity from the early stages of pregnancy in a cohort of pregnant women with and without gestational diabetes (GDM). MDPs (humanin and MOTSc) were assessed in the first and second trimesters of gestation in 28 pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and a subgroup of 45 pregnant women without GDM matched by BMI, age, previous gestations, and time of sampling. Insulin resistance (IR) was defined as a HOMA-IR index ≥70th percentile. We observed a significant reduction in both humanin and MOTSc levels from the first to the second trimesters of pregnancy. After adjusting for predefined variables, including BMI, statistically nonsignificant associations between lower levels of humanin and the occurrence of a high HOMA-IR index were obtained (adjusted OR = 2.63 and 3.14 for the first and second trimesters, linear p-trend 0.260 and 0.175, respectively). Regarding MOTSc, an association was found only for the second trimester: adjusted OR = 7.68 (95% CI 1.49–39.67), linear p-trend = 0.012. No significant associations were observed in humanin change with insulin resistance throughout pregnancy, but changes in MOTSc levels were significantly associated with HOMA-IR index: adjusted OR 3.73 (95% CI 1.03–13.50). In conclusion, MOTSc levels, especially a strong decrease from the first to second trimester of gestation, may be involved in increasing insulin resistance during early gestation.
A Comprehensive Investigation into the Distribution of Circulating B Cell Subsets in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Kövér Ágnes , Lampé Rudolf , Szabó Krisztina , Tarr Tünde , Papp Gábor
Published: May 2022

Maternal B cells play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of pregnancy, due to their humoral activities and regulatory functions. In the study, we investigated the alterations in the distributions of naïve and memory B cell subsets, as well as regulatory B (Breg) cells, in the third trimester of pregnancy. Peripheral blood from 14 healthy pregnant women in the third trimester and 7 healthy non-pregnant women was collected and examined for the frequencies of B cell subsets, including IgD+CD27− naïve, IgD+CD27+ un-switched memory, IgD−CD27+ switched memory, CD38intCD24int mature–naïve, CD38−CD24hi primarily memory and CD38hiCD24hi transitional B cells by flow cytometry. Breg cell subsets were also characterized based on the expression of CD5, CD1d and IL-10. In pregnant women, the proportions of un-switched memory and transitional B cells were significantly decreased. Additionally, the frequencies of both CD5+CD1d+ Breg and IL-10-producing B10 cells were decreased in pregnancy. Changes in the distribution of transitional B cells as well as Breg cells may be crucial contributors for the development of altered maternal immune responses and tolerance needed for the maintenance of normal pregnancy in the third trimester.
Antithrombotic Therapy in Elderly Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Bonanad Clara , Esteve-Claramunt Francisca , García-Blas Sergio , Ayesta Ana , Díez-Villanueva Pablo , Pérez-Rivera Jose-Ángel , Ferreiro José Luis , Cánoves Joaquim , López-Fornás Francisco , Ariza Solé Albert , Raposerias Sergio , Vivas David , Blanco Regina , Bompart Berroterán Daznia , Cordero Alberto , Núñez Julio , Fácila Lorenzo , Núñez-Gil Iván J. , Górriz José Luis , Bodí Vicente , Martínez-Selles Manuel , Ruiz Nodar Juan Miguel , Chorro Francisco Javier
Published: May 2022

The treatment of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in elderly patients continues to be a challenge because of the characteS.G.B.ristics of this population and the lack of data and specific recommendations. This review summarizes the current evidence about critical points of oral antithrombotic therapy in elderly patients. To this end, we discuss the peculiarities and differences reported referring to dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in ACS management in elderly patients and what might be the best option considering these population characteristics. Furthermore, we analyze antithrombotic strategies in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), with a particular focus on those cases that also present coronary artery disease (CAD). It is imperative to deepen our knowledge regarding the management of these challenging patients through real-world data and specifically designed geriatric studies to help resolve the questions remaining in their disease management.
Testicular, Epididymal and Vasal Anomalies in Pediatric Patients with Cryptorchid Testes and Testes with Communicating Hydrocele
Authors: Niedzielski Jerzy , Nowak Maciej , Kucharski Piotr , Marchlewska Katarzyna , Słowikowska-Hilczer Jolanta
Published: May 2022

The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of the testicular, epididymal, and vasal anomalies (TEVA) in cryptorchid and communicating hydrocele pediatric patients. Six hundred and ninety-one prepubertal boys underwent inguinal exploration for 741 undescended (UDT) or hydrocele testes. Two hundred and fifty-five TEVA were detected in 154 UDT boys, compared to 32 defects in 24 hydrocele patients (p < 0.001). The TEVA were more frequent in bilateral UDT (p = 0.009). Multiple defects were observed more frequently in the intra-abdominal testicles (p = 0.028). A correlation was found between the testicular atrophy index (TAI) and the incidence and number of TEVA in the UDT boys (p < 0.001). The smaller the testis (higher TAI), the more the defects that appeared in it and the higher the frequency of their appearance. Another correlation was established between testis position and the incidence and number of TEVA (p < 0.001). The higher the testis position, the more the defects that appeared in it and the higher the frequency of their appearance. A correlation was established between the position and the volume of the affected testis (p < 0.001). The higher the gonad position, the more severe the atrophy observed in it. The TEVA were more frequent in the UDT boys than in the hydrocele patients. We revealed that the risk of abnormal fusion between the testis, epididymis, and vas deferens is connected with the testis position (intra-abdominal testes) and bilateral non-descent.
Correction: Park et al. Genetic Study in Korean Pediatric Patients with Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome or Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis. J. Clin. Med. 2020, 9, 2013
Authors: Park Eujin , Lee Chung , Kim Nayoung K. D. , Ahn Yo Han , Park Young Seo , Lee Joo Hoon , Kim Seong Heon , Cho Min Hyun , Cho Heeyeon , Yoo Kee Hwan , Shin Jae Il , Kang Hee Gyung , Ha Il-Soo , Park Woong-Yang , Cheong Hae Il
Published: May 2022

In the original article [...]
Cognitive Functions after Carotid Artery Stenting—1-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Piegza Magdalena , Jaworska Izabela , Piegza Jacek , Bujak Kamil , Dębski Paweł , Leksowska Aleksandra , Gorczyca Piotr , Gąsior Mariusz , Pudlo Robert
Published: May 2022

Background: The revascularization of carotid arteries minimizes the risk of future cerebral stroke and usually improves cognitive functions. The aim of this study was to assess changes in cognitive function and verify the hypothesis assuming an improvement of selected cognitive functions—psychomotor speed, visuospatial episodic memory, executive function and verbal fluency—in patients after carotid artery stenting during a 12-month follow-up. Methods: 47 persons subject to CAS, including 13 symptomatic persons, were examined before and 12 months after a procedure with a psychological test battery (digit symbol test—DS, Rey–Osterrieth complex figure test—ROCF, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test—WCST, letter verbal fluency—LVF). Sociodemographic data and clinical parameters were acquired from an author questionnaire. Results: The one-year follow-up, after the performed CAS procedure, demonstrated a significant improvement of psychomotor speed, visuospatial episodic memory, and executive function. No changes in the area of verbal fluency or decline in any of cognitive functions under analysis were observed. Conclusions: Carotid artery stenting improves cognitive functioning, both in the area of basic and more complex cognitive functions in persons with carotid atherosclerosis.
Expression of Inflammatory Markers in the Muscles of Patients with Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathy According to the Presence of Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Lee Jung Sun , Ghang Byeongzu , Choi Wonho , Hong Seokchan , Kim Yong-Gil , Lee Chang-Keun , Nam Soo Jeong , Yoo Bin
Published: May 2022

Background: Several studies have identified factors associated with the development of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs). However, few have assessed the association between ILD and muscle biopsy findings, including inflammatory marker expressions analyzed using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Methods: Muscle biopsies from patients who were newly diagnosed with IIMs between 2000 and 2017 were reviewed. ILD was diagnosed based on chest computed tomography findings at the time of diagnosis of IIMs. IHC staining was performed for CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, CD68, CD163, MX1, MHC class I, and HLA-DR. The factors associated with the presence of ILD were evaluated by logistic regression analysis. Results: Of the 129 patients with IIM, 49 (38%) had ILD. In the muscle biopsy findings, CD4 expression, MX1 expression on immune cells, and expression of MHC class I and HLA-DR on myofibers were more common in patients with ILD than those without. In the logistic regression analysis, the HLA-DR expression on myofibers was significantly associated with the risk of ILD (OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.24–4.90, p = 0.012) after adjusting for pathologic findings, clinical features, and autoantibodies. Conclusion: The expression of HLA-DR on myofibers was associated with the presence of ILD in patients with IIM.
Performance of sFlt-1/PIGF Ratio for the Prediction of Perinatal Outcome in Obese Pre-Eclamptic Women
Authors: Karge Anne , Desing Linus , Haller Bernhard , Ortiz Javier U. , Lobmaier Silvia M. , Kuschel Bettina , Graupner Oliver
Published: May 2022

Obese women are at high risk of developing pre-eclampsia (PE). As an altered angiogenic profile is characteristic for PE, measurement of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PIGF) ratio in the maternal serum can be helpful for PE diagnosis, as well as for adverse perinatal outcome (APO) prediction. There is growing evidence that obesity might influence the level of sFlt-1/PIGF and, therefore, the aim of the study was the evaluation of sFlt-1/PIGF as an APO predictor in obese women with PE. Pre-eclamptic women who had an sFlt-1/PIGF measurement at the time of diagnosis were retrospectively included. Women were classified according to their pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) as normal weight (BMI < 25 kg/m2), overweight (BMI > 25–29.9 kg/m2) or obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). APO was defined as the occurrence of one of the following outcomes: Small for gestational age, defined as a birthweight < 3rd centile, neonatal mortality, neonatal seizures, admission to neonatal unit required (NICU) or respiratory support. A total of 141 women were included. Of them, 28 (20%) patients were obese. ROC (receiver operating characteristic) analysis revealed a high predictive value for sFlt-1/PIGF and APO across the whole study cohort (AUC = 0.880, 95% CI: 0.826–0.936; p < 0.001). However, the subgroup of obese women showed a significantly lower level of sFlt-1 and, therefore, the performance of sFlt-1/PIGF as APO predictor was poorer compared to normal or overweight PE women (AUC = 0.754, 95% CI: 0.552–0.956, p = 0.025). In contrast to normal or overweight women, a ratio of sFlt-1/PIGF < 38 could not rule out APO in women with obesity.
Objective Methods of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid-Based Endoscopic Photodynamic Diagnosis Using Artificial Intelligence for Identification of Gastric Tumors
Authors: Yamashita Taro , Kurumi Hiroki , Fujii Masashi , Sakaguchi Takuki , Hashimoto Takeshi , Kinoshita Hidehito , Kanda Tsutomu , Onoyama Takumi , Ikebuchi Yuichiro , Yoshida Akira , Kawaguchi Koichiro , Yashima Kazuo , Isomoto Hajime
Published: May 2022

Positive diagnoses of gastric tumors from photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) images after the administration of 5-aminolevulinic acid are subjectively identified by expert endoscopists. Objective methods of tumor identification are needed to reduce potential misidentifications. We developed two methods to identify gastric tumors from PDD images. Method one was applied to segmented regions in the PDD endoscopic image to determine the region in LAB color space to be attributed to tumors using a multi-layer neural network. Method two aimed to diagnose tumors and determine regions in the PDD endoscopic image attributed to tumors using the convoluted neural network method. The efficiencies of diagnosing tumors were 77.8% (7/9) and 93.3% (14/15) for method one and method two, respectively. The efficiencies of determining tumor region defined as the ratio of the area were 35.7% (0.0–78.0) and 48.5% (3.0–89.1) for method one and method two, respectively. False-positive rates defined as the ratio of the area were 0.3% (0.0–2.0) and 3.8% (0.0–17.4) for method one and method two, respectively. Objective methods of determining tumor region in 5-aminolevulinic acid-based endoscopic PDD were developed by identifying regions in LAB color space attributed to tumors or by applying a method of convoluted neural network.
Formation of FePt–MgO Nanocomposite Films at Reduced Temperature
Authors: Wei Da-Hua , Chen Sheng-Chiang , Yang Cheng-Jie , Huang Rong-Tan , Dong Chung-Li , Yao Yeong-Der
Published: May 2022

The MgO nanolayer effect on the microstructure and magnetic characterizations added into Fe/Pt stacked films directly deposited onto MgO (001) single-crystal substrates at the reduced temperature of 380 °C using electron-beam technology was investigated in this present work. The nanograin isolation and exchange decoupling for the FePt–MgO system is attributed to the magnetic FePt isolated grains that originate from MgO atoms with a spreading behavior mostly along grain boundaries owing to its weaker surface energy than that of a single Fe or Pt element. The grain and domain size decreased when the MgO nanolayer was applied due to the interpenetration of MgO and created a strain-energy variation at the MgO/FePt interface. Measuring angular-dependent coercivity indicates a general trend of a domain-wall motion, and changes to the rotation of the reverse-domain model occurred as the MgO nanolayers were added into FePt films. The intergrain interaction is confirmed by the Kelly–Henkel plot, which shows that there is strong intergrain exchange coupling (positive δM type) between neighboring grains in the continuous Fe/Pt stacked films without MgO nanolayers. In addition, a negative δM type occurred when the Fe/Pt stacked films were added into MgO nanolayers, showing that the MgO nanolayer can be applied to adjust the force of intergrain exchange coupling between the adjacent FePt nanograins, and the addition of MgO nanolayers change into magnetic decoupling; thus, there was a formed dipole interaction in our claimed FePt–MgO composite structure of stacked ultrathin films at a reduced temperature of 380 °C.
Assembly Line Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) Prediction from Human Estimation to Supervised Machine Learning
Authors: Dobra Péter , Jósvai János
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, in the domain of production logistics, one of the most complex planning processes is the accurate forecasting of production and assembly efficiency. In industrial companies, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) is one of the most common used efficiency measures at semi-automatic assembly lines. Proper estimation supports the right use of resources and more accurate and cost-effective delivery to the customers. This paper presents the prediction of OEE by comparing human prediction with one of the techniques of supervised machine learning through a real-life example. In addition to descriptive statistics, takt time-based decision trees are applied and the target-oriented OEE prediction model is presented. This concept takes into account recent data and assembly line targets with different weights. Using the model, the value of OEE can be predicted with an accuracy of within 1% on a weekly basis, four weeks in advance.
Dynamics of Planktonic Microbial Community Associated with Saccharina japonica Seedling
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Yan Yongwei , Qian Hao , Li Jie , Liu Tao , Mo Zhaolan
Published: May 2022

Macroalgae interact with planktonic microbes in seawater. It remains unclear how planktonic microbes interact with the environment and each other during the cultivation processes of commercially important algal species. Such an interaction is important for developing environment-friendly mariculture methods. In this study, the dynamics of the planktonic microbial community associated with Saccharina japonica were profiled during the seedling production stage, with its environmental correlation and co-occurrence pattern determined simultaneously. Microbial richness increased and positively correlated with light intensity and contents of NO3− and PO43−. A clear temporal succession of the community was observed, which coincided with changes in light intensity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and NO3− content. α-Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, γ-Proteobacteria, and the genera prevalent in these taxa dominated the planktonic microbial community, and their relative abundance temporally changed. A profile of keystone taxa that is different from prevalent genera was identified based on betweenness centrality scores. A modularized co-occurrence pattern was determined, in addition to intensified species-to-species interactions at the core of the co-occurrence network. These findings expanded our cognization of the planktonic microbial community in response to S. japonica cultivation.
Biomimetic Aquatic Robots Based on Fluid-Driven Actuators: A Review
Authors: Bu Kunlang , Gong Xiaobo , Yu Changli , Xie Fang
Published: May 2022

Biomimetic aquatic robots are a promising solution for marine applications such as internal pipe inspection, beach safety, and animal observation because of their strong manoeuvrability and low environmental damage. As the application field of robots has changed from a structured known environment to an unstructured and unknown territory, the disadvantage of the low efficiency of the propeller propulsion has become more crucial. Among the various actuation methods of biomimetic robots, many researchers have utilised fluid actuation as fluid is clean, environmentally friendly, and easy to obtain. This paper presents a literature review of the locomotion mode, actuation method, and typical works on fluid-driven bionic aquatic robots. The actuator and structural material selection is then discussed, followed by research direction and application prospects of fluid-driven bionic aquatic robots.
Comparative Transcriptomics of Gonads Reveals the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Gonadal Development in Giant Freshwater Prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii)
Authors: Yang Guang , Qin Zhendong , Lu Zhijie , Liang Rishen , Zhao Lijuan , Pan Gan , Lin Li , Zhang Kai
Published: May 2022

The giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, is a prawn that has economic significance throughout the world. It exhibits sex-related growth dimorphism, whereby the males grow significantly more rapidly than the females. Therefore, a study on the molecular regulatory mechanism, which underlies the sexual differentiation of M. rosenbergii, is of both scientific and commercial importance. However, a scarcity of genomic and transcriptomic resources severely limits our knowledge of the sexual differentiation mechanisms in M. rosenbergii. Here, transcriptome sequencing of several gonadic samples of males and females in M. rosenbergii was performed to investigate the molecular basis underlying gonadal development. Our results showed that 2149 unigenes presented as differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the ovaries of females compared to the testes of males, which contained 484 down-regulated and 1665 up-regulated genes. Enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed many of these genes to be related to sexual differentiation and gonadal development. From our transcriptome analyses, and as confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR, male-related genes (Mrr, MRPINK, IR, IAGBP, TESK1, and dsx) in the testes were significantly up-regulated, and female-related genes (ERR, Sxl3, cyclinB, Dmrt99B, PPP2A, and ADCY9) in the ovaries were also significantly up-regulated. This indicates the potential role these genes play in the gonadal development of M. rosenbergii. Furthermore, multiple signal transduction pathways relating to gonadal maturation and spermatogenesis, including MAPK, were identified herein. Our data also supports previous ideas that IAG and IAGBP-IR signaling schemes could help in the regulation of testis’ development in M. rosenbergii and the ERR gene could regulate ovarian development by affecting the expression of cyclinB, PPP2A, and ADCY9. The data from this study provides incredibly usefully genomic resources for future research on the sexual differentiation and practical aquaculture of M. rosenbergii.
Simultaneous Thermal and Spectroscopic Screening of Morphologically Complex Theranostic Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Chavva Suhash Reddy , Bhat Namratha , San Juan Angela Michelle T. , Jaitpal Siddhant , Mabbott Samuel
Published: May 2022

Gold nanoparticles absorb light energy and convert it to thermal energy that transfers to the surrounding environment, making them potentially useful for the hyperthermic treatments well known as photothermal therapy (PTT). Further, it is well documented that noble metal nanoparticles are capable of significantly enhancing the Raman scattering of molecules attached to their surfaces, a technique which is termed surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). SERS combined with PTT has the ability to locate nanoparticles at depth and trigger heat production, providing an effective methodology to both seek and destroy diseased tissues. While PTT and SERS are often used in tandem and there are several ways of individually measuring SERS and thermal output, there is currently no method available that pre-screens both properties prior to in vitro or in vivo application. In this work, we have designed a 3D printed platform capable of coupling a commercially available Raman probe to a sample cuvette for SERS and heat output to be monitored simultaneously. We have compared the performance of morphologically complex gold nanoparticles, nanostars (AuNSs) and nanoplates (AuNPLs), which are both well utilized in SERS and photothermal experiments; and measured the SERS activity originating from common Raman reporter analytes 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (MBA) and 1,4-benzenedithiol (BDT). We were able to show that the system effectively measures the thermal output and SERS activity of the particles and can evaluate the effect that multiple irradiation cycles have on the SERS signal.
Mating-Type Genes Play an Important Role in Fruiting Body Development in Morchella sextelata
Authors: Liu Qizheng , Qu Shan , He Guoqiang , Wei Jinkang , Dong Caihong
Published: May 2022

True morels (Morchella spp.) are edible mushrooms that are commercially important worldwide due to their rich nutrition and unique appearance. In recent years, outdoor cultivation has been achieved and expanded on a large scale in China. However, the mechanisms of fruiting body development in morels are poorly understood. In this study, the role of mating-type genes in fruiting body development was researched. Fruiting bodies cultivated with different mating-type strains showed no difference in appearance, but the ascus and ascospores were slightly malformed in fruiting bodies obtained from the MAT1-1 strains. The transcript levels of mating-type genes and their target genes revealed that the regulatory mechanisms were conserved in ascomycetes fungi. The silencing of mat1-2-1 by RNA interference verified the direct regulatory effect of mat1-2-1 on its target genes at the asexual stage. When cultivated with the spawn of single mating-type strains of MAT1-1 or MAT1-2, only one corresponding mating-type gene was detected in the mycelial and conidial samples, but both mat1-1-1 and mat1-2-1 were detected in the samples of primordium, pileus, and stipe. An understanding of the mating-type genes’ role in fruiting body development in M. sextelata may help to understand the life cycle and facilitate artificial cultivation.
Insight into Biological Control Potential of Hirsutella citriformis against Asian Citrus Psyllid as a Vector of Citrus Huanglongbing Disease in America
Authors: Pérez-González Orquídea , Gomez-Flores Ricardo , Tamez-Guerra Patricia
Published: May 2022

Studies on Hirsutella citriformis Speare are scarce. Among these, some reports have focused on phenotypic identification, based on its morphological structure and morphometric characteristics. This fungus is known to control economically important citrus crop pests. In recent years, H. citriformis has received increased attention as a control agent for the Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae), which causes the Huanglongbing (HLB) disease. Unfortunately, formal H. citriformis strains characterization is marginal, which mainly involves the role of biologically active exudates (metabolites) produced during their growth. Information regarding their mode of action and biocontrol potential is limited. However, epizootics reports of this fungus, under suitable environmental conditions for its development (25 °C to 28 °C and ~80% relative humidity), have demonstrated its parasitization efficacy. Therefore, it becomes challenging to determine whether H. citriformis strains may be developed as commercial products. In this review, we showed relevant information on isolation and bioassay strategies of H. citriformis to evaluate potential biocontrol strains under laboratory and field conditions in America.