bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pronounced Uptake and Metabolism of Organic Substrates by Diatoms Revealed by Pulse-Labeling Metabolomics
Authors: Meyer Nils , Rydzyk Aljoscha , Pohnert Georg
Published: April 2022

Diatoms contribute as a dominant group of microalgae to approximately 20% of the global carbon fixation. In the plankton, these photosynthetic algae are exposed to a plethora of metabolites, especially when competing algae are lysed. It is well established that diatoms can take up specific metabolites, such as vitamins, amino acids as nitrogen source, or dimethylsulfoniopropoionate to compensate for changes in water salinity. It is, however, unclear to which extent diatoms take up other organic resources and if these are incorporated into the cell´s metabolism. Here, we explore the general scope of uptake of metabolites from competitors. Using labeled metabolites released during lysis of algae grown under a 13CO2 atmosphere, we show that the cosmopolitan diatom Chaetoceros didymus takes up even dilute organic substrates from these lysates with little bias for molecular weight or polarity. This is reflected by a high degree of labeling in the metabolome of the exposed cells. The newly developed pulse label/mass spectrometry metabolomics approach reveals that polarity and molecular weight has no detectable influence on uptake. We further show that the taken-up metabolites are partly maintained without metabolic modification within the cells, but also a substantial part is subject to catabolic and anabolic transformation. One of the most dominant phytoplankton groups thus has the potential to compete with heterotrophs, suggesting that the observed osmotrophy may substantially impact organic material fluxes in the oceans. Our findings call for the refinement of our understanding of competition in the plankton.
Correlation of Total Lipid Content of Chlorella vulgaris With the Dynamics of Individual Fatty Acid Growth Rates
Authors: Moradi-Kheibari Narges , Ahmadzadeh Hossein , Lyon Stephen R.
Published: April 2022

Microalgae are considered as a promising feedstock for the production of valuable fatty acids. In this study, individual fatty acid profiles during the growth period of Chlorella vulgaris were investigated. The results showed that the quantity and the type of fatty acids changed with varying rates during the growth of microalgal cells. Interchanging the fatty acid profiles may provide some metabolic information as a complementary method to radiolabeling studies. For C. vulgaris, two unsaturated fatty acids, oleic and linoleic acids, were the major components. Constant concentration of palmitic and oleic acids shows that they may serve as precursors for longer-chain fatty acids. Higher concentration of palmitic rather than palmitoleic acid (about 16 to 34 times depending on the cultivation day) shows that palmitic acid production rate is higher than its conversion rate to longer-chain fatty acids. In fact, palmitoleic acid might have been partly converted to oleic and linoleic acids. The fatty acid content variations during the growth period are not linear and can be fitted to a Sigmoidal model with R2 value higher than 0.98 and low RMSD values (except for oleic and palmitic acid).
Decadal Response of Mesozooplankton Assemblages to Nutrient Load Reductions in Laizhou Bay, China
Authors: Jiang Huichao , Liu Dongyan , Ma Yuanqing , Su Bo , Liu Ning , Zhang Juan , He Jianlong , Qin Huawei , Song Xiukai , Sun Shan , Xing Hongyan
Published: April 2022

Reducing nutrient loads from catchments is an important strategy to mitigate coastal eutrophication. The decadal responses of ecosystems to nutrient load reductions can help us understand the effectiveness of environmental restoration. Here, the cascading trophic interactions of mesozooplankton and phytoplankton in Laizhou Bay were analyzed to examine the effects of nutrient load reductions from rivers during 2004–2014. The results showed that the diversity of the mesozooplankton assemblages and the proportion of higher trophic species increased after nutrient load reductions, and mesozooplankton abundance showed an obviously decreasing annual trend. A significantly positive correlation between mesozooplankton and phytoplankton abundance was identified for August. Mesozooplankton abundance was mainly influenced by phytoplankton abundance in August, but by microzooplankton prey or jellyfish predators in May when phytoplankton abundance was low. This result indicates that the recovery of mesozooplankton assemblages in Laizhou Bay is a slow process after nutrient load reductions and might have cascading trophic interactions with phytoplankton recovery.
Evaluation of Dry Eye After Refractive Surgery According to Preoperative Meibomian Gland Status
Authors: Gong Qianwen , Li Anqi , Chen Lin , Chen Huijuan , Gu Jinjing , Xu Zhiqiang , Lu Fan , Hu Liang
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To investigate the effect of the preoperative meibomian gland (MG) status on dry eye symptoms after corneal refractive surgery.

Methods

This is a prospective, observational study. Subjects were enrolled and classified into 3 groups according to their MG loss grades. Ocular surface parameters were measured preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months, postoperatively, including the ocular surface disease index questionnaire (OSDI), non-invasive tear film break up time (NIBUT), tear meniscus height and Schirmer I test. All the parameters were analyzed among the three groups, and different time points.

Results

Seventy-eight patients were included in this study. The grade of MG loss varied from 0 to 2, thus the subjects were divided into group 1–3 corresponding to the MG loss. There were no significant differences in all parameters at baseline. The OSDI score increased in all groups at 1 month postoperatively and then decreased after other follow-ups. The OSDI was higher in group 3 than group 1 at all time points postoperatively (P = 0.005, 0.002, 0.034). Besides, it was higher in group 2 at 3 months and 6 months, compared with group 1 (P = 0.006, 0.029). The average NIBUT was shorter in group 3, compared with group 1 and group 2 since 1 month after surgery. At 1 and 3 month postoperatively, the grade of MG loss was positively correlated with the total OSDI and the vision-related scores. And it showed a positive correlation only with the environmental score at 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

The dry eye discomfortable symptoms significantly differed post operatively according to their preoperative MG loss grade, though no difference was found at baseline. Dry eye was associated more with vision-related discomfort at first and environmental factors later.
Immune Activities in Choroids of Visually Impaired Smyth Chickens With Autoimmune Vitiligo
Authors: Sorrick Jordan , Huett Wilson , Byrne Kristen A. , Erf Gisela F.
Published: April 2022

Vitiligo is a common dermatological disorder affecting 1–2% of the world’s population. It is characterized by postnatal, autoimmune destructions of melanocytes in the skin, resulting in patches of depigmentation. Autoimmunity in vitiligo may also affect melanocytes in non-integumental tissues, including the eyes where choroidal melanocytes are the target of the autoimmune response. The Smyth line (SL) of chicken is the only animal model that spontaneously and predictably develops all clinical and biological manifestations of autoimmune vitiligo. In SL vitiligo (SLV), destruction of epidermal melanocytes in growing feathers (GFs) involves a melanocyte-specific, Th1-mediated cellular immune response. Smyth chickens may also exhibit uveitis and vision impairment. Previous studies established a strong association between SLV and vision impairment, including similar pathology in affected eyes and GFs. To determine the presence, types, and activities of choroid infiltrating mononuclear cells, we collected eyes before, near onset, and during active SLV from sighted, partially blind, and blind SL chickens. All SL chickens with vision impairment had SLV. Immunohistochemistry and quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR analyses revealed mononuclear cell and cytokine expression profiles in the autoimmune destruction of melanocytes in choroids that are identical to those described in GF, demonstrating the systemic nature of autoimmunity against melanocytes in SLV. In addition, we observed aberrant melanogenesis in SL eyes. The immunopathogenesis in SL vision impairment resembles human vitiligo-associated ocular diseases, especially Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada syndrome and sympathetic ophthalmia. Hence, the Smyth chicken autoimmune vitiligo model provides the opportunity to expand our understanding of spontaneous autoimmune pigmentation disorders and to develop effective treatment strategies.
Novel Therapies for Alport Syndrome
Authors: Chavez Efren , Rodriguez Juanly , Drexler Yelena , Fornoni Alessia
Published: April 2022

Alport syndrome (AS) is a hereditary kidney disease associated with proteinuria, hematuria and progressive kidney failure. It is characterized by a defective glomerular basement membrane caused by mutations in type IV collagen genes COL4A3/A4/A5 which result in defective type IV collagen α3, α4, or α5 chains, respectively. Alport syndrome has three different patterns of inheritance: X-linked, autosomal and digenic. In a study of CKD of unknown etiology type IV collagen gene mutations accounted for the majority of the cases of hereditary glomerulopathies which suggests that AS is often underrecognized. The natural history and prognosis in patients with AS is variable and is determined by genetics and environmental factors. At present, no preventive or curative therapies exist for AS. Current treatment includes the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors which slow progression of kidney disease and prolong life expectancy. Ramipril was found in retrospective studies to delay the onset of ESKD and was recently demonstrated to be safe and effective in children and adolescents, supporting that early initiation of Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System (RAAS) blockade is very important. Mineralocorticoid receptor blockers might be favorable for patients who develop “aldosterone breakthrough.” While the DAPA-CKD trial suggests a beneficial effect of SGLT2 inhibitors in CKD of non-metabolic origin, only a handful of patients had Alport in this cohort, and therefore conclusions can't be extrapolated for the treatment of AS with SGLT2 inhibitors. Advances in our understanding on the pathogenesis of Alport syndrome has culminated in the development of innovative therapeutic approaches that are currently under investigation. We will provide a brief overview of novel therapeutic targets to prevent progression of kidney disease in AS. Our review will include bardoxolone methyl, an oral NRf2 activator; lademirsen, an anti-miRNA-21 molecule; sparsentan, dual endothelin type A receptor (ETAR) and angiotensin 1 receptor inhibitor; atrasentan, oral selective ETAR inhibitor; lipid-modifying agents, including cholesterol efflux transporter ATP-binding cassette A1 (ABCA1) inducers, discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1) inhibitors and osteopontin blocking agents; the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine; the antiglycemic drug metformin and the active vitamin D analog paricalcitol. Future genomic therapeutic strategies such as chaperone therapy, genome editing and stem cell therapy will also be discussed.
Providing a Nursing Care Plan as a Requirement for Secondary Prevention for People Living With HTLV-1
Authors: Aben-Athar Cintia Yolette Urbano Pauxis , Sampaio Edilson Coelho , Pinto Denise Silva , Vallinoto Antonio Carlos Rosário , Cayres Vallinoto Izaura Maria Vieira
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The absence of nursing care plans aimed at people living with HTLV-1 (PLHTLV) led us to develop and test a proposed nursing care plan based on the evaluation of 55 PLHTLV to outline interventions according to the clinical stage.

Methods

After interviews with symptomatic patients, nursing diagnoses were made using the NANDA International Nursing Diagnoses (The International Nursing Knowledge Association). Subsequently, interventions were selected through the Classification of Nursing Interventions (NIC), and expected results were selected through the Classification of Nursing Outcomes (NOC).

Results

The actual diagnoses included (ii) chronic pain, (iii) impaired urinary elimination, and (iv) sexual dysfunction; the health promotion diagnosis was (i) risk-prone health behavior; and the risk diagnoses were (i) risk of feeling powerless and (ii) risk of falls in adults. Nursing care must prevent the lack of adherence to monitoring, establish goals and promote family involvement. A safe home environment requires intervention for fall prevention. Full support in understanding pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies for chronic pain is needed. Interventions allow patients with impaired urinary function to be reintroduced to society. For sexual dysfunction, it is necessary to discuss safe sex and behavioral changes. Regarding risk behaviors, it is necessary to guide the patient/family, adapt language to the education level of these individuals, and help them better accept the condition, among other guidelines.

Conclusion

The development of a nursing care plan for PLHTLV is essential for preventing the rapid progression of disease and the improvement of the quality of life of PLHTLV and should be included in the multidisciplinary approach to the secondary level of prevention of HTLV-1.
Case Report: Nerve Root Entrapment Due to Epidural Fibrosis in a Patient With Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: Value of 2-18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Simultaneous Positron Emission Tomography-Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Tsai Yueh-Hsun , Huang Guo-Shu , Tang Chi-Tun , Chang Wei-Chou , Hsu Yi-Chih
Published: April 2022

Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a highly prevalent condition in patients after spine surgery. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for the diagnosis of epidural fibrosis, it is sometimes difficult to determine if epidural fibrosis contributes to radiculopathy. Herein, we share our experience in locating radiculopathy lesions using simultaneous positron emission tomography (PET)/MRI. 2-[18F]-FDG (18F-fluorodeoxyglucose) simultaneous PET/MRI maps of body glucose metabolism detected using PET can be used to correlate anatomical details provided by MRI to offer a very clear picture of neural inflammation due to extensive epidural fibrosis. More applications of 2-[18F]-FDG simultaneous PET/MRI in low back pain and other musculoskeletal diseases should be further investigated in the future.
Return of Sexual Activity Within Six Weeks of Childbirth Among Married Women Attending Postpartum Clinic of a Teaching Hospital in Ethiopia
Authors: Edosa Dirirsa Dejene , Awol Salo Mukemil , Eticha Tariku Regea , Geleta Tinsae Abeya , Deriba Berhanu Senbeta
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Postpartum sexual health gets very little attention compared to pregnancy and childbirth, even though most maternal deaths and disabilities occur during this time. Therefore, the study aimed to assess return of sexual activity within 6 weeks of childbirth among married women attending postpartum clinic of a teaching hospital in Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods

The hospital-based cross-sectional study design was implemented from September to October 2021. Eligible postpartum women were sampled by systematic random sampling technique. The data was entered into EPI-info and exported to SPSS version 24 for further analysis. All variables with a p-value < 0.05 in multivariable analyses were taken as associated factors with the return to sexual activity before 6 weeks of childbirth.

Results

A total of 421 postpartum women participated in the study. The prevalence of women who return to sexual activity 6 weeks after childbirth was 31.6%. The study revealed that monogamy (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 4.4, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) (2.1, 9.4)), parity (AOR= 0.11, 95% CI (0.02–0.81)) and (AOR = 0.1, 95% CI (0.015–0.72)), postnatal care (AOR= 1.8, 95% CI (1.01–3)) and infants feeding status (AOR=2.3, 95% CI (1.3–4)) were significantly associated with return of sexual activity before 6 weeks of childbirth.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggested that, nearly one-third of postpartum women engaged to sexual activity within 6 weeks of childbirth. Return of sexual activity within 6 weeks of childbirth associated with monogamy type of marriage, parity, postnatal care, and child feeding status. Strengthening postpartum counseling regarding the appropriate time to resume sexual activity is crucial. Regular postpartum visits following deliveries should also be encouraged by health care providers.
Clinical Characteristics, Quality of Life, and Risk Factors of Amputation Stump Skin Disease and Stump Fungal Infection in Adult Amputees in Shanghai, China
Authors: Li Yanqiao , He Longwen , Lu Xiangting , Du Qian , Yu Shijun , Huang Xin
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The stump site of amputees is clinically vulnerable and prone to various skin diseases. Data regarding the impact on quality of life (QoL) of amputees with amputation stump skin disease (ASSD) and risk factors of ASSD and stump fungal infection in the Shanghai area are yet unknown.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the QoL of amputees with ASSD and explore the risk factors of ASSD and stump fungal infection in the Shanghai area.

Methodology

A total of 104 amputees from Shanghai Hebin Rehabilitation Hospital, Otto Bock (China) Industries Co., Ltd., Shanghai Tongji Hospital, and Shanghai Rehabilitation and Vocational Training Center for the Disabled were enrolled in this study. We collected demographic, clinical, and skin fungal examination data from these amputees from April 2015 to May 2021. Dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire was used to evaluate the QoL. The risk factors for ASSD and fungal skin infection were analyzed by the univariate analyses.

Results

The median age of the 104 amputees was 57.9 ± 11.9 years with an average amputation time of 17.7 ± 15.1 years, and 73% of cases were men. The mean DLQI score of amputees with ASSD was13.6, suggesting the severe impairment of QoL. Among amputees, 41 (39.4%) had confirmed ASSD, of whom 24 (58.5%) suffered from fungal skin infection and the remaining were subjected to intertriginous dermatitis and eczema (22%), cutaneous keratosis (12.2%), and others (7.3%). Aspergillus (50.0%) was the most common species. The other fungal organisms included Trichophyton rubrum (33.3%), Candida krusei (8.3%), T. mentagrophytes (4.2%), and C. albicans (4.2%). ASSD rather than non-ASSD was more common in men (80.4%) and summer (46.3%). Summer (OR = 3.31, 95% CI = 1.19–9.17) was an established risk factor for ASSD compared to spring. The daily artificial limb wearing time > 8 h was associated with stump fungal infection.

Conclusion

The QoL of amputees with ASSD was severely affected and the ASSD was characterized by fungal infection (tinea), intertriginous dermatitis, eczema, and skin keratosis. Summer and daily prosthesis wearing > 8 h was a risk factor for ASSD. Aspergillus was the most common fungal species, especially when the stump was exposed in summer.
A Preliminary Test of Novelty-Facilitated Extinction in Individuals With Pathological Anxiety
Authors: Steinman Shari A. , Dunsmoor Joseph E. , Gazman Zhamilya , Stovezky Yael , Pascucci Olivia , Pomerenke Justin , Phelps Elizabeth A. , Fyer Abby , Simpson H. Blair
Published: April 2022

Studies with rodents and healthy humans suggest that replacing the expected threat with a novel outcome improves extinction and reduces the return of conditioned fear more effectively than threat omission alone. Because of the potential clinical implications of this finding for exposure-based anxiety treatments, this study tested whether the same was true in individuals with pathological anxiety (i.e., met DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder and/or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In this preliminary test of novelty-facilitated extinction, 51 unmedicated individuals with pathological anxiety were randomized to standard extinction (n = 27) or novelty-facilitated extinction (n = 24). Participants returned 24 h later to test extinction recall and fear reinstatement. Skin conductance responses (SCR) were the dependent measure of conditioned fear. Participants in both groups learned the fear association but variably extinguished it. Novelty did not facilitate extinction in this preliminary trial. Findings underscore the importance of translating paradigms from healthy humans to clinical samples, to ensure that new treatment ideas based on advances in basic neuroscience are relevant to patients.
Dexterous Manipulation for Multi-Fingered Robotic Hands With Reinforcement Learning: A Review
Authors: Yu Chunmiao , Wang Peng
Published: April 2022

With the increasing demand for the dexterity of robotic operation, dexterous manipulation of multi-fingered robotic hands with reinforcement learning is an interesting subject in the field of robotics research. Our purpose is to present a comprehensive review of the techniques for dexterous manipulation with multi-fingered robotic hands, such as the model-based approach without learning in early years, and the latest research and methodologies focused on the method based on reinforcement learning and its variations. This work attempts to summarize the evolution and the state of the art in this field and provide a summary of the current challenges and future directions in a way that allows future researchers to understand this field.
Effect of Arm Movement and Task Difficulty on Balance Performance in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults
Authors: Muehlbauer Thomas , Hill Mathew W. , Heise Joana , Abel Leander , Schumann Ina , Brueckner Dennis , Schedler Simon
Published: April 2022

Background

Studies have shown that restricted compared to free arm movement negatively affects balance performance during balance assessment and this is reinforced when the level of task difficulty (e.g., varying stance/walk conditions, sensory manipulations) is increased. However, it remains unclear whether these findings apply to individuals with differences in the development of the postural control system. Thus, we examined the influence of arm movement and task difficulty on balance performance in children, adolescents, and young adults.

Methods

Static, dynamic, and proactive balance performance were assessed in 40 children (11.5 ± 0.6 years), 30 adolescents (14.0 ± 1.1 years), and 41 young adults (24.7 ± 3.0 years) using the same standardized balance tests [i.e., one-legged stance (OLS) time with eyes opened/closed and/or on firm/foam ground, 3-m beam (width: 6, 4.5, or 3 cm) walking backward step number, Lower Quarter Y-Balance test (YBT-LQ) reach distance] with various difficulty levels under free vs. restricted arm movement conditions.

Results

In all but one test, balance performance was significantly better during free compared to restricted arm movement. Arm by age interactions were only observed for the YBT-LQ and post hoc analyses revealed significantly greater performance differences between free and restricted arm movement, especially, in young adults. Arm by age by task difficulty interactions were found for the OLS and the 3-m beam walking backward test. Post hoc analyses showed significantly greater performance differences between free and restricted arm movement during high vs. low levels of task difficulty and this was more pronounced in children and adolescents.

Conclusions

Regardless of age, static, dynamic, and proactive balance performance benefited from arm movements and this was especially noted for youth performing difficult balance tasks.
Multimodal Human-Exoskeleton Interface for Lower Limb Movement Prediction Through a Dense Co-Attention Symmetric Mechanism
Authors: Shi Kecheng , Mu Fengjun , Huang Rui , Huang Ke , Peng Zhinan , Zou Chaobin , Yang Xiao , Cheng Hong
Published: April 2022

A challenging task for the biological neural signal-based human-exoskeleton interface is to achieve accurate lower limb movement prediction of patients with hemiplegia in rehabilitation training scenarios. The human-exoskeleton interface based on single-modal biological signals such as electroencephalogram (EEG) is currently not mature in predicting movements, due to its unreliability. The multimodal human-exoskeleton interface is a very novel solution to this problem. This kind of interface normally combines the EEG signal with surface electromyography (sEMG) signal. However, their use for the lower limb movement prediction is still limited—the connection between sEMG and EEG signals and the deep feature fusion between them are ignored. In this article, a Dense con-attention mechanism-based Multimodal Enhance Fusion Network (DMEFNet) is proposed for predicting lower limb movement of patients with hemiplegia. The DMEFNet introduces the con-attention structure to extract the common attention between sEMG and EEG signal features. To verify the effectiveness of DMEFNet, an sEMG and EEG data acquisition experiment and an incomplete asynchronous data collection paradigm are designed. The experimental results show that DMEFNet has a good movement prediction performance in both within-subject and cross-subject situations, reaching an accuracy of 82.96 and 88.44%, respectively.
Fixed Point Attractor Theory Bridges Structure and Function in C. elegans Neuronal Network
Authors: Liu Jian , Lu Wenbo , Yuan Ye , Xin Kuankuan , Zhao Peng , Gu Xiao , Raza Asif , Huo Hong , Li Zhaoyu , Fang Tao
Published: April 2022

Understanding the structure–function relationship in a neuronal network is one of the major challenges in neuroscience research. Despite increasing researches at circuit connectivity and neural network structure, their structure-based biological interpretability remains unclear. Based on the attractor theory, here we develop an analytical framework that links neural circuit structures and their functions together through fixed point attractor in Caenorhabditis elegans. In this framework, we successfully established the structural condition for the emergence of multiple fixed points in C. elegans connectome. Then we construct a finite state machine to explain how functions related to bistable phenomena at the neural activity and behavioral levels are encoded. By applying the proposed framework to the command circuit in C. elegans, we provide a circuit level interpretation for the forward-reverse switching behaviors. Interestingly, network properties of the command circuit and first layer amphid interneuron circuit can also be inferred from their functions in this framework. Our research indicates the reliability of the fixed point attractor bridging circuit structure and functions, suggesting its potential applicability to more complex neuronal circuits in other species.
Empathy Modulates the Effect of Stress Reactivity on Generous Giving
Authors: Azulay Hagar , Guy Nitzan , Pertzov Yoni , Israel Salomon
Published: April 2022

How does acute stress influence the degree to which we cooperate with others? Research on the effects of stress on social decision-making is guided by two seemingly contrasting theories. Acute stress may trigger a Fight-or-Flight response, manifested by increased anxiety, and more egocentric or selfish behavior. Alternatively, according to the Tend-and-Befriend model, acute stress may induce affiliative behaviors, marked by increased prosociality in an effort to seek and receive social support and protection. Extant studies on the topic do not provide consistent support for either pattern of behavior, with studies showing evidence for both Fight-or-Flight or Tend-and-Befriend like responses. One possibility, may be the nature of social responses to stressful situations differ as a function of the individual. In the current study, we demonstrate an example of such a person-by-situation interaction, showing that acute stress can cause either pro-social or selfish responses, contingent on individual differences in trait empathy. One hundred and twenty three participants (60 F) were assessed for trait empathy using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index; consequently, they underwent either the Trier Social Stress Test—a well-validated paradigm for eliciting acute psychosocial stress—or a non-stress inducing control condition. Following exposure to either the stress or control condition, participants played a one-shot Dictator Game to evaluate their generosity levels. Statistical analyses revealed that acute stress by itself did not affect the amount transferred in the Dictator Game. Rather, individual differences in trait empathy moderated the effects of stress on giving. Elevations in stress-induced cortisol resulted in more generous behavior, but only in individuals high in empathy. In contrast, in individuals low in empathy, a greater rise in stress-induced cortisol resulted in more selfish behavior. Effects were more pronounced in females than males. Our findings highlight the necessity of integrating personality traits as important moderators of the link between stress and sociality.
Nociception in the Glycine Receptor Deficient Mutant Mouse Spastic
Authors: Groemer Teja Wolfgang , Triller Antoine , Zeilhofer Hanns Ulrich , Becker Kristina , Eulenburg Volker , Becker Cord Michael
Published: April 2022

Glycine receptors (GlyRs) are the primary mediators of fast inhibitory transmission in the mammalian spinal cord, where they modulate sensory and motor signaling. Mutations in GlyR genes as well as some other genes underlie the hereditary disorder hyperekplexia, characterized by episodic muscle stiffness and exaggerated startle responses. Here, we have investigated pain-related behavior and GlyR expression in the spinal cord of the GlyR deficient mutant mouse spastic (spa). In spastic mice, the GlyR number is reduced due to a β subunit gene (Glrb) mutation resulting in aberrant splicing of GlyRβ transcripts. Via direct physical interaction with the GlyR anchoring protein gephyrin, this subunit is crucially involved in the postsynaptic clustering of heteromeric GlyRs. We show that the mutation differentially affects aspects of the pain-related behavior of homozygous Glrbspa/Glrbspa mice. While response latencies to noxious heat were unchanged, chemically induced pain-related behavior revealed a reduction of the licking time and an increase in flinching in spastic homozygotes during both phases of the formalin test. Mechanically induced nocifensive behavior was reduced in spastic mice, although hind paw inflammation (by zymosan) resulted in allodynia comparable to wild-type mice. Immunohistochemical staining of the spinal cord revealed a massive reduction of dotted GlyRα subunit immunoreactivity in both ventral and dorsal horns, suggesting a reduction of clustered receptors at synaptic sites. Transcripts for all GlyRα subunit variants, however, were not reduced throughout the dorsal horn of spastic mice. These findings suggest that the loss of functional GlyRβ subunits and hence synaptically localized GlyRs compromises sensory processing differentially, depending on stimulus modality.
MicroRNAs as T Lymphocyte Regulators in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Wang Lin , Liang Yuanyuan
Published: April 2022

MicroRNA (miRNA) is a class of endogenous non-coding small RNA with regulatory activities, which generally regulates the expression of target genes at the post-transcriptional level. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is thought to be an autoimmune-mediated chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that typically affect young adults. T lymphocytes play an important role in the pathogenesis of MS, and studies have suggested that miRNAs are involved in regulating the proliferation, differentiation, and functional maintenance of T lymphocytes in MS. Dysregulated expression of miRNAs may lead to the differentiation balance and dysfunction of T lymphocytes, and they are thus involved in the occurrence and development of MS. In addition, some specific miRNAs, such as miR-155 and miR-326, may have potential diagnostic values for MS or be useful for discriminating subtypes of MS. Moreover, miRNAs may be a promising therapeutic strategy for MS by regulating T lymphocyte function. By summarizing the recent literature, we reviewed the involvement of T lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of MS, the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis and disease progression of MS by regulating T lymphocytes, the possibility of differentially expressed miRNAs to function as biomarkers for MS diagnosis, and the therapeutic potential of miRNAs in MS by regulating T lymphocytes.
Supplementation of Aspergillus oryzae Culture Improved the Feed Dry Matter Digestibility and the Energy Supply of Total Volatile Fatty Acid Concentrations in the Rumen of Hu Sheep
Authors: Guo Long , Zhang Duihong , Du Ruifang , Li Fadi , Li Fei , Ran Tao
Published: April 2022

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of feeding different amounts of Aspergillus oryzae culture (AOC) on the degradation rate of various feeds for 24 h, rumen fermentation parameters, microbial community, and blood cell composition of Hu sheep. Sixteen castrated and fattening adult Hu sheep with permanent rumen fistula were randomly divided into four groups (four sheep per group) based on body weight (64.62 ± 5.83 kg). The experiment was repeated for two periods to ensure eight replicates for each treatment, and each period consisted of 28 days, including a 7-d of transition, a 14-d of pre-feeding, and a 7-d of sample collection. The control group (CON) received a basal diet without AOC, and the other groups were fed basal diet supplemented with 10 g/d, 20 g/d, and 40 g/d AOC, respectively, every day before the morning feeding. Supplementation with 20 g/d and 40 g/d AOC significantly increased (P < 0.05) the total volatile fatty acids (TVFAs) content, the molar ratio of butyric acid, and the 24 h dry matter (DM) degradation rate of alfalfa hay and corn straw. When fed 40 g/d AOC, the DM degradation rate of corn germ meal and the relative abundance of Kiritimatiellaeota were significantly increased (P < 0.05), but the ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid (A/P) was significantly reduced (P = 0.04). In conclusion, supplementation with AOC for Hu sheep could improve feed DM digestibility and increase the energy supply of TVFAs concentration in the rumen. Based on the feed conditions of the present study, supplementation 40 g/d of AOC could increase the production efficiency of sheep while higher level have to further investigate.
Urine Screening and 9 Years’ Medical Record System Follow-Up Among School Students in Wenzhou, China
Authors: Chen Tingting , Yang Qing , Xu Hong , Gong Yinv , Guo Xiaoling , Lin Hongzhou , Yang Jianhuan , Zhuang Jieqiu , Lan Junwei , Chu Maoping , Wang Dexuan
Published: April 2022

School urinary screening programming can be useful for the early detection of renal and urinary disorders. However, urine screening is not included in the school health check-up in our region. Therefore, from February 2012 to March 2021, 12,497 school students were screened for urinalysis, and a long-term follow-up took placeviaan electronic medical record system. Among these screened students, 719 (5.75%) positive individuals received a repeat urinalysis 2 weeks later. During the 9-year medical record system follow-up period, 5 children had renal biopsies and 2 children had a diagnosis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), while the remaining 3 children were diagnosed with thin basement membrane disease (TBM), primary nephrotic syndrome (PNS), and were suspected of C3 glomerulopathy, respectively. By this, calling for the school urine screening program as a physical examination item for primary and secondary school-aged students will contribute to enabling early detection of urine abnormalities and allow for early treatment.
Transformation of Stilbene Glucosides From Reynoutria multiflora During Processing
Authors: Bai Junqi , Chen Wanting , Huang Juan , Su He , Zhang Danchun , Xu Wen , Zhang Jing , Huang Zhihai , Qiu Xiaohui
Published: April 2022

The root of Reynoutria multiflora Thunb. Moldenke (RM, syn.: Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.) has been widely used in TCM clinical practice for centuries. The raw R. multiflora (RRM) should be processed before use, in order to reduce toxicity and increase efficiency. However, the content of trans-2, 3, 5, 4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (trans-THSG), which is considered to be the main medicinal ingredient, decreases in this process. In order to understand the changes of stilbene glycosides raw R. multiflora (RRM) and processed R. multiflora (PRM), a simple and effective method was developed by ultra high performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole/electrostatic field orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Exactive plus orbitrap MS/MS). The content and quantity of stilbene glycosideshave undergone tremendous changes during the process. Seven parent nucleus of stilbene glycosides and 55 substituents, including 5-HMF and a series of derivatives, were identified in PM. 146 stilbene glycosides were detected in RRM, The number of detected compounds increased from 198 to 219 as the processing time increased from 4 to 32 h. Among the detected compounds, 102 stilbene glycosides may be potential new compounds. And the changing trend of the compounds can be summarized in 3 forms: gradually increased, gradually decreased, first increased and then decreased or decreased first. The content of trans-THSG was indeed decreased during processing, as it was converted into a series of derivatives through the esterification reaction with small molecular compounds. The clarification of secondary metabolite group can provide a basis for the follow-up study on the mechanism of pharmacodynamics and toxicity of PM, and for screening of relevant quality markers.
Extra Loading Dose of Dexmedetomidine Enhances Intestinal Function Recovery After Colorectal Resection: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: He Guo-Zun , Bu Ning , Li Ya-Juan , Gao Yuan , Wang Ge , Kong Zhi-Dong , Zhao Min , Zhang Shan-Shan , Gao Wei
Published: April 2022

Importance: Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) may be caused by postoperative vagus nerve tension inhibition and systemic inflammation. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) increases vagus nerve tone and affords an anti-inflammatory property, which may play a role in pathogenesis.

Objective: To investigate whether a higher dose of Dex enhances gastrointestinal function recovery.

Design: In this retrospective study, patients receiving colorectal surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University from 2017 to 2019 were included. We evaluated the postoperative flatus time between recipients who received loading plus maintenance dose of DEX (LMD group, 237 recipients) and those who recieved maintenance dose of DEX (MD group, 302 recipients). Data were analyzed by logical regression and stratified and interaction analyses. The simulated pharmacokinetics of two DEX regimens was compared using the Tivatrainer software. Thirty paired blood samples from patients whose propensity scores matched with POGD-related factors at 24 h postoperatively were randomly selected, and their tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), d-lactate (DLA), acetylcholine (Ach), interleukin (IL)-10, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), IL-6, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels were measured.

Setting: Operating rooms and general surgery wards.

Participants: Among the 644 patients undergoing colorectal surgery, 12 who had a colostomy, 26 without Dex infusion, 20 whose Dex administration mode cannot be classified, and 47 with a history of intestinal surgery were excluded. A total of 539 patients were included.

Result: Compared with the MD group, the LMD group had a shorter recovery time to flatus; lower incidences of nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, and abdominal pain (p < 0.05); and a slightly decreased heart rate. The LMD group was the independent factor of POGD (OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.41–0.87, p = 0.007) without being reversed in stratified and interaction analyses and had higher Dex plasma concentration from skin incision to 8 h postoperatively. The LMD group had a 39% and 43% increase in Ach and IL-10 levels, respectively, and a 33%–77% decrease in TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, iNOS, LPS, and DLA levels (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Adding an extra loading dose of Dex can increase parasympathetic tone and decrease inflammation; hence, it can enhance postoperative gastrointestinal function recovery following colorectal surgery.
Association Between Body Mass Index and All-Cause Mortality in a Prospective Cohort of Southern Chinese Adults Without Morbid Obesity
Authors: Hu Feng , Cheng Jianduan , Yu Yun , Wang Tao , Zhou Wei , Yu Chao , Zhu Lingjuan , Bao Huihui , Cheng Xiaoshu
Published: April 2022

Objective: This prospective study examined the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and all-cause mortality in Chinese adults without morbid obesity.

Methods: We prospectively examined the relationship between BMI and all-cause mortality in 12,608 Southern Chinese adults with age ≥35 years who participated in the National Key R&D Program from 2013–2014 to 2019–2020. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the association between BMI and all-cause mortality.

Results: The prevalence of being underweight, normal weight, overweight and having moderate obesity was 7.36%, 55.83%, 28.51% and 8.31%, respectively. A total of 683 (5.65%) deaths occurred during a median follow-up period of 5.61 years. The Cox proportional hazards models indicated that a continuous BMI level was negatively associated with all-cause mortality [adjusted-hazard ratio (HR) per 1 kg/m2 increase: 0.96, 95% CI 0.93 to 0.98, p < 0.001]. Furthermore, the HRs of all-cause mortality in the underweight, overweight and moderate obesity groups were 1.31 (1.05, 1.64), 0.89 (0.73, 1.08) and 0.64 (0.44, 0.92), respectively in the confounder model relative to the normal weight group. Survival analysis further confirmed this inverse association of the four BMI categories with mortality.

Conclusion: BMI was negatively associated with all-cause mortality in southern Chinese adults without morbid obesity. Compared to the normal weight category, adults in the moderate obesity category had lower all-cause mortality, whereas being underweight was associated with increased all-cause mortality.
Dietary Flavonoids as Modulators of Lipid Metabolism in Poultry
Authors: Tan Zhendong , Halter Bailey , Liu Dongmin , Gilbert Elizabeth R. , Cline Mark A.
Published: April 2022

Flavonoids, naturally-occurring compounds with multiple phenolic structures, are the most widely distributed phytochemicals in the plant kingdom, and are mainly found in vegetables, fruits, grains, roots, herbs, and tea and red wine products. Flavonoids have health-promoting effects and are indispensable compounds in nutritional and pharmaceutical (i.e., nutraceutical) applications. Among the demonstrated bioactive effects of flavonoids are anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial in a range of research models. Through dietary formulation strategies, numerous flavonoids provide the ability to support bird health while improving the nutritional quality of poultry meat and eggs by changing the profile of fatty acids and reducing cholesterol content. A number of such compounds have been shown to inhibit adipogenesis, and promote lipolysis and apoptosis in adipose tissue cells, and thereby have the potential to affect fat accretion in poultry at various ages and stages of production. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to animal health by preventing free radical damage in tissues and ameliorating inflammation in adipose tissue, which are concerns in broiler breeders and laying hens. In this review, we summarize the progress in understanding the effects of dietary flavonoids on lipid metabolism and fat deposition in poultry, and discuss the associated physiological mechanisms.
The Effects of Eccentric Strength Training on Flexibility and Strength in Healthy Samples and Laboratory Settings: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vetter Sebastian , Schleichardt Axel , Köhler Hans-Peter , Witt Maren
Published: April 2022

Background: The risk of future injury appears to be influenced by agonist fascicle length (FL), joint range of motion (ROM) and eccentric strength. Biomechanical observations of the torque-angle-relationship further reveal a strong dependence on these factors. In practice, a longer FL improves sprinting performance and lowers injury risk. Classical stretching is a popular and evidenced-based training for enhancing ROM but does not have any effects on FL and injury risk. However, recent studies show that eccentric-only training (ECC) improves both flexibility and strength, and effectively lowers risk of injury.

Objectives: To review the evidence on benefits of ECC for flexibility and strength.

Methods: COCHRANE, PUBMED, SCOPUS, SPOLIT, and SPONET were searched for laboratory trials that compare ECC to at least one comparison group. Studies were eligible if they examined both strength and flexibility metrics in a healthy sample (<65 years) and met criteria for controlled or randomized clinical trials (CCT, RCT). 18 studies have been included and successfully rated using the PEDro scale.

Results: 16 of 18 studies show strong evidence of strength and flexibility enhancements for the lower limb. While improvements between ECC and concentric training (CONC) were similar for eccentric (+19 ± 10% vs. +19 ± 11%) and isometric strength (+16 ± 10% vs. +13 ± 6%), CONC showed larger improvements for concentric strength (+9 ± 6% vs. +16 ± 7%). While for ROM ECC showed improvements (+9 ± 7%), no results could be found for CONC. The overall effectiveness of ECC seems to be higher than of CONC.

Conclusion: There is clear evidence that ECC is an effective method for changes in muscle architecture, leading to both flexibility and strength improvements for the lower limb. Due to limited data no shoulder study could be included. Further research is needed for the upper body joints with a focus on functional and structural adaptions.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021283248, identifier CRD42021283248
Improving Association Studies and Genomic Predictions for Climbing Beans With Data From Bush Bean Populations
Authors: Keller Beat , Ariza-Suarez Daniel , Portilla-Benavides Ana Elisabeth , Buendia Hector Fabio , Aparicio Johan Steven , Amongi Winnyfred , Mbiu Julius , Msolla Susan Nchimbi , Miklas Phillip , Porch Timothy G. , Burridge James , Mukankusi Clare , Studer Bruno , Raatz Bodo
Published: April 2022

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) has two major origins of domestication, Andean and Mesoamerican, which contribute to the high diversity of growth type, pod and seed characteristics. The climbing growth habit is associated with increased days to flowering (DF), seed iron concentration (SdFe), nitrogen fixation, and yield. However, breeding efforts in climbing beans have been limited and independent from bush type beans. To advance climbing bean breeding, we carried out genome-wide association studies and genomic predictions using 1,869 common bean lines belonging to five breeding panels representing both gene pools and all growth types. The phenotypic data were collected from 17 field trials and were complemented with 16 previously published trials. Overall, 38 significant marker-trait associations were identified for growth habit, 14 for DF, 13 for 100 seed weight, three for SdFe, and one for yield. Except for DF, the results suggest a common genetic basis for traits across all panels and growth types. Seven QTL associated with growth habits were confirmed from earlier studies and four plausible candidate genes for SdFe and 100 seed weight were newly identified. Furthermore, the genomic prediction accuracy for SdFe and yield in climbing beans improved up to 8.8% when bush-type bean lines were included in the training population. In conclusion, a large population from different gene pools and growth types across multiple breeding panels increased the power of genomic analyses and provides a solid and diverse germplasm base for genetic improvement of common bean.