bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive In Silico Analysis of a Novel Serum Exosome-Derived Competitive Endogenous RNA Network for Constructing a Prognostic Model for Glioblastoma
Authors: Wang Zihao , Ji Xin , Gao Lu , Guo Xiaopeng , Lian Wei , Deng Kan , Xing Bing
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive brain tumors with high mortality, and tumor-derived exosomes provide new insight into the mechanisms of GBM tumorigenesis, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. We aimed to establish an exosome-derived competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network for constructing a prognostic model for GBM.

Methods

We obtained the expression profiles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), miRNAs, and mRNAs from the GEO and TCGA databases and identified differentially expressed RNAs in GBM to construct a ceRNA network. By performing lasso and multivariate Cox regression analyses, we identified optimal prognosis-related differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and generated a risk score model termed the exosomal lncRNA (exo-lncRNA) signature. The exo-lncRNA signature was subsequently validated in the CGGA GBM cohort. Finally, a novel prognostic nomogram was constructed based on the exo-lncRNA signature and clinicopathological parameters and validated in the CGGA external cohort. Based on the ceRNA hypothesis, oncocers were identified based on highly positive correlations between lncRNAs and mRNAs mediated by the same miRNAs. Furthermore, regression analyses were performed to assess correlations between the expression abundances of lncRNAs in tumors and exosomes.

Results

A total of 45 DElncRNAs, six DEmiRNAs, and 38 DEmRNAs were identified, and an exosome-derived ceRNA network was built. Three optimal prognostic-related DElncRNAs, HOTAIR (HR=0.341, P<0.001), SOX21-AS1 (HR=0.30, P<0.001), and STEAP3-AS1 (HR=2.47, P<0.001), were included to construct the exo-lncRNA signature, which was further proven to be an independent prognostic factor. The novel prognostic nomogram was constructed based on the exo-lncRNA signature, patient age, pharmacotherapy, radiotherapy, IDH mutation status, and MGMT promoter status, with a concordance index of 0.878. ROC and calibration plots both suggested that the nomogram had beneficial discrimination and predictive abilities. A total of 11 pairs of prognostic oncocers were identified. Regression analysis suggested excellent consistency of the expression abundance of the three exosomal lncRNAs between exosomes and tumor tissues.

Conclusions

Exosomal lncRNAs may serve as promising prognostic predictors and therapeutic targets. The prognostic nomogram based on the exo-lncRNA signature might provide an intuitive method for individualized survival prediction and facilitate better treatment strategies.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Patients With Pulmonary Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma: A SEER-Based Analysis
Authors: Qiu Lingxiao , Song Pan , Chen Pingmei , Wang Huaqi , Li Fangfang , Shu Mengxuan , Gong Gen-cheng , Song Xiangjin , Huang Chun , Jia Hongxia , Li Nana , Zhang Guojun
Published: March 2021

Background

Primary pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma (PMEC) is an extremely rare malignancy. Its clinical characteristics and prognosis are not fully understood. This study evaluated clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of PMEC and established a nomogram to predict its 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates.

Methods

In the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from January 1, 1975 to December 31, 2016, patients pathologically diagnosed with PMEC were identified. Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression were performed to evaluate the CSS stratified by different covariates. A predictive nomogram model was built and validated by the concordance index (C-index) and calibration curves.

Results

A total of 585 PMEC patients were identified. A total of 408 (70%) of patients were placed into the training cohort, and 177 (30%) patients were placed into the validation cohort. The 5- and 10-year CSS rates of stage I–II PMEC patients were 91.4 and 88.9, respectively. The 1-, 3- and 5-year CSS rates of stage III–IV PMEC were 56.5, 39.45, and 32.1%, respectively. Survival curves showed that older age, large tumor size, poor differentiation, and high TNM stage were associated with a significantly worse prognosis. CSS outcomes were significantly better in patients who received surgical treatments (surgical alone, surgery plus radiation and/or chemotherapy). Patients who received radiation and/or chemotherapy had the worst prognosis. Multivariate Cox results revealed that covariates, including age, tumor laterality, tumor sizes, pathological differentiation, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, TNM stage and therapy, were independent prognostic factors for PMEC. These factors were used to construct a nomogram. The C-index of the nomogram was 0.921. The calibration curve presented favorable consistency between the predicted CSS and actual observations. This nomogram was validated by the validation cohort. The C-index of the validation cohort was 0.968.

Conclusion

Age, bilateral tumors, tumor size, pathological differentiation grade, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, TNM stage and therapy were independent prognostic factors of PMEC patients. The first nomogram for predicting the CSS of PMEC was built and validated, showing its potential value in practice.
Undifferentiated Pancreatic Carcinoma With Osteoclast-Like Giant Cells: What Do We Know So Far?
Authors: Demetter Pieter , Maréchal Raphaël , Puleo Francesco , Delhaye Myriam , Debroux Sébastien , Charara Fadi , Gomez Galdon Maria , Van Laethem Jean-Luc , Verset Laurine
Published: March 2021

Undifferentiated carcinoma of the pancreas is an aggressive but rare tumor for which several other terms have been used to describe its histological appearance. In addition, as osteoclast-like giant cells may accompany undifferentiated carcinoma of the pancreas, the WHO Classification distinguishes undifferentiated carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells (UC-OGC) from plain undifferentiated carcinoma since there are a few histopathological and clinical differences. UC-OGC was initially thought to be associated with worse prognosis compared to invasive ductal pancreatic adenocarcinoma, since it is often unresectable at diagnosis and tends to recur rapidly even if completely resected. When true UC-OGGs are carefully dissected out from other anaplastic carcinomas, it becomes, however, clear that UC-OGCs do have more indolent behavior, especially the pure UC-OGCs. This mini-review summarizes the current knowledge on UC-OGC.
Whole-Brain Radiation Therapy With Simultaneous Integrated Boost Versus Whole-Brain Radiation Therapy Plus Stereotactic Radiosurgery for the Treatment of Brain Metastasis From Lung Cancer
Authors: Lin Binwei , Huang Dan , Du Huan , Fan Jinjia , Zhang Yu , Feng Gang , Gao Feng , Du Xiao Bo
Published: March 2021

Radiotherapy is one of the most important treatments for brain metastasis (BM). This study aimed to assess whether whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) provided any therapeutic benefit compared to WBRT followed by stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Seventy-two consecutive cases of lung cancer with BM treated from January 2014 to June 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Thirty-seven patients were treated with WBRT (30 Gy in 10 fractions) and SIB (45 Gy in 10 fractions), and 35 patients were treated with WBRT (30 Gy in ten fractions) followed by SRS (16–24 Gy according to the maximum tumor diameter). The primary endpoint was intracranial progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary endpoints were intracranial objective response (partial and complete responses), pattern of intracranial progression, overall survival (OS), and toxicity. The WBRT + SIB group had a significantly longer median intracranial PFS (9.1 vs. 5.9 months, P = 0.001) than the WBRT + SRS group. The intracranial objective response rate was 67.6% and 62.9% in the WBRT + SIB and in WBRT + SRS groups, respectively (P = 0.675). The incidence of progression outside the P-GTV in the WBRT + SIB group was significantly lower than that in the WBRT + SRS group (39.4% vs. 75.0%, P = 0.004). The median OS was 24.3 and 20.3 months in the WBRT + SIB and WBRT + SRS groups, respectively (P = 0.205). There was no significant difference in the incidence of grade 3 or worse adverse reactions between the two groups. Compared to treatment with WBRT + SRS, that with WBRT + SIB for BM appeared to contribute to local control.
Progression Patterns, Treatment, and Prognosis Beyond Resistance of Responders to Immunotherapy in Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Xu Yanjun , Li Hui , Fan Yun
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have changed the management of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, resistance is inevitable. The disease progression patterns, sequential treatment, and prognosis beyond ICI resistance are not completely understood.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed stage IV NSCLC patients who underwent ICI treatment at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital between January 2016 and January 2020 and who suffered disease progression after at least stable disease on immunotherapy for more than 3 months (at least two cycles). Oligoprogression and systematic progression were defined as previous reports. The main outcome measures were progression-free survival (PFS), second PFS (PFS2), and overall survival (OS). Survival curves were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method. The Cox proportional hazards model was used for multivariate analysis.

Results

Totally 1,014 NSCLC patients were administered immunotherapy. Of them, 208 NSCLC patients were included in this retrospective study. The estimated PFS, PFS2 and OS were 6.3 months (95% CI 5.6–7.0 months), 10.7 months (95% CI 10.1–12.7 months), and 21.4 months (95% CI 20.6–26.4 months), respectively. After resistance, 55.3% (N = 115) patients developed oligoprogression, and 44.7% (N = 93) systemic progression. For patients with systemic progression, chemotherapy (N = 35, 37.6%), best supportive care (N = 30, 32.3%), and antiangiogenic therapy alone (N = 11, 11.8%) were the major strategies. A combination of local radiotherapy (N = 38, 33.0%) with continued ICIs was the most common treatment used in oligoprogression group, followed by continued immunotherapy with antiangiogenic therapy (N = 19, 16.5%) and local radiotherapy only (N = 17, 14.9%). For patients with oligoprogression, continued immunotherapy plus local radiotherapy can lead to a significantly longer PFS2 (12.9 vs. 10.0 months; p = 0.006) and OS (26.3 vs. 18.5 months, p = 0.001). The PFS2 and OS of patients with oligoprogression were superior to those of patients with systemic progression (PFS2: 13.1 vs. 10.0 months, p = 0.001; OS: 25.8 vs. 19.1 months, p = 0.003).

Conclusions

The major progression pattern after acquired resistance from immunotherapy is oligoprogression. Local radiotherapy with continued immunotherapy beyond oligoprogression in responders was feasible and led to prolonged PFS2 and OS in advanced NSCLC patients.
Field-Based Health-Related Physical Fitness Tests in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Marques Adilson , Henriques-Neto Duarte , Peralta Miguel , Martins João , Gomes Fernando , Popovic Stevo , Masanovic Bojan , Demetriou Yolanda , Schlund Annegret , Ihle Andreas
Published: March 2021

Physical fitness (PF) is a multi-component construct and a biomarker of health. Worse PF is related to vulnerability and predicts worse academic achievements. Thus, assessing PF is important to monitor health in youth. This systematic review aimed to identify and inform physical education, health professionals and entities about existing PF batteries and field-tests that can be used in school settings. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in five electronic databases (Academic Search Complete, Education Resources Information Center, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) to identify PF battery protocols that can be carried out in the school setting. Overall, 24 PF batteries were identified. Regarding the PF components assessed, only cardiorespiratory fitness and upper body strength were contemplated in all batteries. Middle-body strength and lower body strength were presented in most batteries (21 and 19 of 24, respectively). Agility (16 of 24) and body composition (16 of 24) were also considered in several batteries, although to a lesser extent. Flexibility (14 of 24) and speed (12 of 24) were the PF components less represented in the batteries. Among the 24 identified PF batteries, 81 PF tests assessing the different PF components were encountered. The advances in the PF field-based assessment in school settings and health in youth resulted in the amplification of the number of existing batteries. Considering the connection between PF and health and the opportunity that the school setting provides to assess fitness in children and adolescents, there is a need for standardization and a consensus of PF assessments in this specific setting.
Transcriptome Characterization and Expression Analysis of Chemosensory Genes in Chilo sacchariphagus (Lepidoptera Crambidae), a Key Pest of Sugarcane
Authors: Liu Jianbai , Liu Huan , Yi Jiequn , Mao Yongkai , Li Jihu , Sun Donglei , An Yuxing , Wu Han
Published: March 2021

Insect chemoreception involves many families of genes, including odourant/pheromone binding proteins (OBP/PBPs), chemosensory proteins (CSPs), odourant receptors (ORs), ionotropic receptors (IRs), and sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), which play irreplaceable roles in mediating insect behaviors such as host location, foraging, mating, oviposition, and avoidance of danger. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of olfactory reception in Chilo sacchariphagus, which is a major pest of sugarcane. A set of 72 candidate chemosensory genes, including 31 OBPs/PBPs, 15 CSPs, 11 ORs, 13 IRs, and two SNMPs, were identified in four transcriptomes from different tissues and genders of C. sacchariphagus. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted on gene families and paralogs from other model insect species. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that most of these chemosensory genes exhibited antennae-biased expression, but some had high expression in bodies. Most of the identified chemosensory genes were likely involved in chemoreception. This study provides a molecular foundation for the function of chemosensory proteins, and an opportunity for understanding how C. sacchariphagus behaviors are mediated via chemical cues. This research might facilitate the discovery of novel strategies for pest management in agricultural ecosystems.
Pentobarbital Anesthesia Suppresses the Glucose Response to Acute Intermittent Hypoxia in Rat
Authors: Nedoboy Polina E. , Houlahan Callum B. , Farnham Melissa M. J.
Published: March 2021

A key feature of sleep disordered breathing syndromes, such as obstructive sleep apnea is intermittent hypoxia. Intermittent hypoxia is well accepted to drive the sympathoexcitation that is frequently associated with hypertension and diabetes, with measurable effects after just 1 h. The aim of this study was to directly measure the glucose response to 1 h of acute intermittent hypoxia in pentobarbital anesthetized rats, compared to conscious rats. However, we found that while a glucose response is measurable in conscious rats exposed to intermittent hypoxia, it is suppressed in anesthetized rats. Intermittent hypoxia for 1, 2, or 8 h increased blood glucose by 0.7 ± 0.1 mmol/L in conscious rats but had no effect in anesthetized rats (−0.1 ± 0.2 mmol/L). These results were independent of the frequency of the hypoxia challenges, fasting state, vagotomy, or paralytic agents. A supraphysiological challenge of 3 min of hypoxia was able to induce a glycemic response indicating that the reflex response is not abolished under pentobarbital anesthesia. We conclude that pentobarbital anesthesia is unsuitable for investigations into glycemic response pathways in response to intermittent hypoxia in rats.
Genome-Wide Association Studies of Mineral Content in Common Bean
Authors: Gunjača Jerko , Carović-Stanko Klaudija , Lazarević Boris , Vidak Monika , Petek Marko , Liber Zlatko , Šatović Zlatko
Published: March 2021

Micronutrient malnutrition is one of the main public health problems in many parts of the world. This problem raises the attention of all valuable sources of micronutrients for the human diet, such as common bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.). In this research, a panel of 174 accessions representing Croatian common bean landraces was phenotyped for seed content of eight nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, and Mn), and genotyped using 6,311 high-quality DArTseq-derived SNP markers. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was then performed to identify new genetic sources for improving seed mineral content. Twenty-two quantitative trait nucleotides (QTN) associated with seed nitrogen content were discovered on chromosomes Pv01, Pv02, Pv03, Pv05, Pv07, Pv08, and Pv10. Five QTNs were associated with seed phosphorus content, four on chromosome Pv07, and one on Pv08. A single significant QTN was found for seed calcium content on chromosome Pv09 and for seed magnesium content on Pv08. Finally, two QTNs associated with seed zinc content were identified on Pv06 while no QTNs were found to be associated with seed potassium, iron, or manganese content. Our results demonstrate the utility of GWAS for understanding the genetic architecture of seed nutritional traits in common bean and have utility for future enrichment of seed with macro– and micronutrients through genomics-assisted breeding.
The Relationship Between Big Five Personality and Social Well-Being of Chinese Residents: The Mediating Effect of Social Support
Authors: Yu Yanghang , Zhao Yuanyuan , Li Dongyan , Zhang Jingqiu , Li Jiewei
Published: March 2021

Previous studies have noted that personality traits are important predictors of well-being, but how big five personality influences social well-being is still unknown. This study aims to examine the link between big five personality and five dimensions of social well-being in the Chinese cultural context and whether social support can play the mediating effect in the process. This study included 1,658 participants from different communities in China, and regression analyses were conducted. Results revealed that five personality traits were significantly related to overall social well-being; extraversion was significantly related to social integration; agreeableness was positively related to all five dimensions of social well-being; conscientiousness was positively related to social actualization, social coherence, and social contribution; neuroticism was negatively related to social integration, social acceptance, social actualization, and social coherence; openness was positively related to social integration, social acceptance, social coherence, and social contribution. Social support plays mediating roles in the relationships between extraversion/agreeableness/conscientiousness/neuroticism/openness and social well-being, respectively.
Effects of Combining Meditation Techniques on Short-Term Memory, Attention, and Affect in Healthy College Students
Authors: Pragya Samani Unnata , Mehta Neelam D. , Abomoelak Bassam , Uddin Parvin , Veeramachaneni Pushya , Mehta Naina , Moore Stephanie , Jean-Francois Melissa , Garcia Stephanie , Pragya Samani Chaitanya , Mehta Devendra I.
Published: March 2021

Meditation refers to a family of self-regulation practices that focuses on training attention and awareness to foster psycho-emotional well-being and to develop specific capacities such as calmness, clarity, and concentration. We report a prospective convenience-controlled study in which we analyzed the effect of two components of Preksha Dhyāna – buzzing bee sound meditation (Mahapran dhvani) and color meditation (leśyā dhyāna) on healthy college students. Mahapran and leśya dhyāna are two Preksha Dhyāna practices that are based on sound and green color, respectively. The study population represents a suitable target as college students experience different stress factors during the school year. This study measures the individual and combined effects of two techniques (one focusing on sound and one focusing on color), on short-term memory, attention, and affect, in novice meditators. We used a battery of cognitive, performance, and compared results with baseline and control values. We found improved cognition, especially attention, short-term memory, and affect in terms of positivity and reduced negativity. Overall, the two techniques produced variable benefits and subjects showed improved scores over baseline for short-term memory, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing. Further studies are required to understand underlying mechanisms for the observed differences between the two techniques and to elucidate mechanisms underlying the more pronounced and global benefits observed with the combined techniques. These results underscore a need to examine individual components of meditation practices in order to individualize treatment approaches for attention disorders in young adults.

Clinical Trail Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03779269.
Understanding of Physical Activity in Social Ecological Perspective: Application of Multilevel Model
Authors: Lee Yoongu , Park Sanghyun
Published: March 2021

In the social ecological model, personal characteristics are important determinants of health behaviors, however, multi-dimensional approaches that consider social and physical environments must be utilized to gain a broader picture. Accordingly, this study examines the effects of personal, social, and physical environment variables as factors affecting levels of physical activity (METs). Our findings are based on 72,916 responses from the 2015 Community Health Survey in South Korea. Individual characteristics considered included sex, education level, marital status, age, and income. The social environment variables considered were trust between neighbors and the social network with neighbors. The physical environment variables were satisfaction with living environment and satisfaction with public transportation. The analysis was conducted using a multilevel model in order to accurately consider the characteristic differences of the variables. Regarding personal characteristics, sex, education level, and age have a significant effect on physical activity. Of the social and physical environment variables, social network with neighbors and satisfaction with public transportation have a significant effect on physical activity. This study confirms that a macroscopic understanding is needed to explain individual levels of physical activity; the results of this study will be helpful for public health interventions concerning physical activity.
Callous-Unemotional Traits Moderate Anticipated Guilt and Wrongness Judgments to Everyday Moral Transgressions in Adolescents
Authors: Vasconcelos Margarida , Viding Essi , Sebastian Catherine L. , Faria Susana , Almeida Pedro R. , Gonçalves Óscar F. , Gonçalves Rui A. , Sampaio Adriana , Seara-Cardoso Ana
Published: March 2021

Callous-unemotional (CU) traits observed during childhood and adolescence are thought to be precursors of psychopathic traits in adulthood. Adults with high levels of psychopathic traits typically present antisocial behavior. Such behavior can be indicative of atypical moral processing. Evidence suggests that moral dysfunction in these individuals may stem from a disruption of affective components of moral processing rather than from an inability to compute moral judgments per se. No study to date has tested if the dissociation between affective and cognitive dimensions of moral processing linked to psychopathic traits in adulthood is also linked to CU traits during development. Here, 47 typically developing adolescents with varying levels of CU traits completed a novel, animated cartoon task depicting everyday moral transgressions and indicated how they would feel in such situations and how morally wrong the situations were. Adolescents with higher CU traits reported reduced anticipated guilt and wrongness appraisals of the transgressions. However, our key finding was a significant interaction between CU traits and anticipated guilt in predicting wrongness judgments. The strength of the association between anticipated guilt and wrongness judgement was significantly weaker for those with higher levels of CU traits. This evidence extends our knowledge on the cognitive-affective processing deficits that may underlie moral dysfunction in youth who are at heightened risk for antisocial behavior and psychopathy in adulthood. Future longitudinal research is required to elucidate whether there is an increased dissociation between different components of moral processing from adolescence to adulthood for those with high psychopathic traits.
Differential Impact of Education on Gray Matter Volume According to Sex in Cognitively Normal Older Adults: Whole Brain Surface-Based Morphometry
Authors: Kang Dong Woo , Wang Sheng-Min , Na Hae-Ran , Kim Nak-Young , Lim Hyun Kook , Lee Chang Uk
Published: March 2021

Background:The effect of educational status on brain structural measurements depends on demographic and clinical factors in cognitively healthy older adults.

Objectives:The current study aimed to evaluate the impact of interaction between years of education and sex on gray matter volume and to investigate whether cortical volume has a differential impact on cognitive function according to sex.

Methods:One hundred twenty-one subjects between 60 and 85 years old were included in this study. Gray matter volume was evaluated by whole brain surface-based morphometry. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the effects of sex-cortical volume interactions on cognitive functions.

Results:There was a significant interaction between years of education and sex on the cortical volume of the left inferior temporal gyrus after adjusting for age, APOE ε4 allele prevalence, and total intracranial volume. In addition, we found a significant impact of the interaction between adjusted left inferior temporal volume and sex on CERAD-K total scores.

Conclusion:These findings have significant implications for the understanding of how sex could affect the role of cognitive reserve for cortical atrophy in cognitively intact older adults.
Indoor Air Quality Issues for Rocky Mountain West Tribes
Authors: Webb Logan , Sleeth Darrah K. , Handy Rod , Stenberg Jared , Schaefer Camie , Collingwood Scott C.
Published: March 2021

Native American populations face considerable health disparities, especially among those who live on reservations, where access to healthcare, education, and safe housing can be limited. Previous research on tribal housing has raised concerns about housing construction, damage, and possible linkage to adverse health effects (e.g., asthma). This community-based participatory research (CBPR) project investigated indoor air quality issues on two Rocky Mountain west reservations. At the onset of the project, the research team formed a partnership with community advisory boards (CABs) consisting of representatives from tribal councils and community members. Research design, implementation, and dissemination all took place in full collaboration with the CABs following approval through official tribal resolutions. Residential homes were monitored for particulate matter with diameter <2.5 microns (PM2.5) and radon concentrations. Low-cost air quality sensors and activated charcoal radon test kits were placed in tribal households for 6-8 days. A large amount of data were below the sensor limit of quantification (LOQ), but several homes had daily averages that exceeded suggested PM2.5 guidelines, suggestive of the potential for high exposure. Additionally, nearly half of all homes sampled had radon levels above the EPA action level, with mitigation activities initiated for the most concerning homes. Findings from this study indicate the need for future community-wide assessments to determine the magnitude and patterns of indoor air quality issues.
Combination Effect of Outdoor Activity and Screen Exposure on Risk of Preschool Myopia: Findings From Longhua Child Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Lihua , Schmid Katrina L. , Yin Xiao-Na , Zhang Jingyu , Wu Jianbo , Yang Guiyou , Ruan Zeng-Liang , Jiang Xiao-Qin , Wu Chuan-An , Chen Wei-Qing
Published: March 2021

Evidence regarding screen use and outdoor activity during very early childhood (i. e., from aged 1 to 3 years) and their potential combined links to the later preschool myopia is limited. This information is needed to release effective public health messages and propose intervention strategies against preschool myopia. We collected information regarding very early childhood screen use, outdoor activity and the kindergartens vision screenings of 26,611 preschoolers from Longhua Child Cohort Study by questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between reported outdoor activity, screen use from 1 to 3 years of age, and preschool myopia. Throughout very early childhood, from 1 to 3 years, the proportion of children exposed to screens increased (from 35.8 to 68.4%, p < 0.001), whereas the proportion of children who went outdoors ≥7 times/week (67.4–62.1%, p < 0.001) and who went outdoors for ≥60 min/time (53.3–38.0%, p < 0.001) declined. Exposure to fixed screen devices [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.09–3.44], mobile screen devices (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI = 2.15–3.58), and limited outdoor activity (AOR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.42–2.51) during early childhood were associated with preschool myopia. Among children whose parents were myopic, the interactions between outdoor activity and fixed or mobile screen use on later preschool myopia were significant; the ORs and 95% CI were 3.34 (1.19–9.98) and 3.04 (1.06–9.21), respectively. Our findings suggest the possibility that the impact of screen exposure during early childhood on preschool myopia could be diminished by outdoor activity for children whose parents have myopia.
Effects of Feed Supplementation on Nesfatin-1, Insulin, Glucagon, Leptin, T3, Cortisol, and BCS in Milking Ewes Grazing on Semi-Natural Pastures
Authors: Barbato Olimpia , De Felice Elena , Todini Luca , Menchetti Laura , Malfatti Alessandro , Scocco Paola
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of feed supplementation on body condition score (BCS) and different metabolic hormones concentration in lactating sheep reared in Italian Central Apennine pastures during the grazing summer period. In this study, 24 Comisana x Appenninica pluriparous ewes from June until August were divided into two homogenous groups: the control group (UNS) was free to graze, while the other group (SUP), in addition to grazing, was supplemented with 600 g/day/head of cereals. At the start of the supplementation and at an interval of 9–10 days until the end of experimentation, BCS evaluation and blood withdrawal to assay nesfatin-1, insulin, glucagon, leptin, triiodothyronine and cortisol levels were performed. Univariable analysis showed no remarkable differences between the groups, while multivariable analysis suggested that the UNS group was characterized by a lower BCS and greater nesfatin-1 than the SUP group. These findings can be considered in relation to milk production, which shows a clear better persistence in the SUP group. Our results indicate that nutritional supplementation has protected ewes from the usual lowering of the body state linked to lactation and provides a good maintenance of milk production, determining also a better overall body and metabolic state of the animals, which is important at the beginning of the sexual season.
Correlation between Tumour Associated Macrophage (TAM) Infiltration and Mitotic Activity in Canine Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Finotello Riccardo , Whybrow Kate , Scarin Giulia , Ressel Lorenzo
Published: March 2021

Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are an important part of the tumour microenvironment but knowledge of their distribution in canine soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) is limited to absent. We analysed 38 STSs retrieved from the veterinary pathology archive; oral and visceral STSs, synovial cell sarcoma, tumours of histiocytic origin, haemangiosarcoma, carcinosarcomas, and undifferentiated tumours were excluded. Iba-1 positive, non-neoplastic tumour infiltrating cells (morphologically indicative of macrophages) were classified as TAMs and were counted in 10 consecutive tumours areas, where no necrosis or other inflammatory cells could be identified. Associations between numbers of TAMs and mitoses, differentiation, and necrosis scores or grade were investigated. TAMs were evident in all STSs and ranged between 6% to 62% of the cells in the microscopic field. The number of TAMs positively correlated with the STSs’ histologic grade. When the components of the grade were analysed separately, TAMs were statistically correlated with mitoses, but not with differentiation or necrosis score. The present findings suggest that TAMs are present in higher numbers when STS proliferation is the predominant feature that drives tumour grade. The abundant presence of TAMs in high-grade STSs may also increase the likelihood of a pathologist misdiagnosing STS for histiocytic sarcoma.
Umbilical Cord Blood Gas Parameters and Apgar Scoring in Assessment of New-Born Dogs Delivered by Cesarean Section
Authors: Antończyk Agnieszka , Ochota Małgorzata , Niżański Wojciech
Published: March 2021

The article presents the results of the clinical evaluation (Apgar scores, AS) and umbilical cord blood gas analysis (UCBGA) obtained from clamped umbilical cords of newborn pups delivered by the elective Caesarean section. The study was planned as a controlled clinical study, the newborns were allocated into one of the groups, I—critical neonates (severe distress, AS ≤ 3), II—weak neonates (moderate distress, AS 4–6) and III—healthy neonates (no distress, AS ≥ 7). The following parameters were evaluated: pH (pH units), carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO2; mmHg), oxygen partial pressure (pO2; mmHg), actual bicarbonate (cHCO3−; mmol/L), total carbon dioxide (cTCO2; mmol/L), base excess of extracellular fluid (BE(ecf); mmol/L), base excess of blood (BE(b); mmol/L), oxygen saturation (csO2; %), lactate (Lac; mg/dL), hematocrit (Hct; %PCV), hemoglobin (cHgb; g/dL), glucose (Glu; mg/dL), ions (Na, K, Ca, Cl). The majority of puppies had low AS at birth (AS 4–6 in 38.1% and AS ≤ 3 in 57.1% of the neonates), but most of them (85.7%) improved by the 20th min. reaching AS of 7 and more. Moreover, puppies with lower AS (≤ 3) were at higher risk of death within the first 24h (20.8% did not survive). The positive correlation was found between Apgar score measured at 0 min and pH (r = 0.46, p = 0.01), and between Apgar score (at 0 min) and base excess in whole blood measured [BE(b)] r = 0.36, p = 0.03). Whereas, a negative correlation was detected between Apgar score at 0 and 5th min and glycemia (r = −0.42, p = 0.05, r = −0.34, p = 0.02 respectively. Overall, the puppies with higher glucose levels had lower Apgar scores and were at higher risk of death. Furthermore, in our study, the newborn puppies had mild acidemia with elevated pCO2 levels and the HCO3 at the lower range of normal limits, suggesting the mixed component in the acidemic state. Adaptation to extra-uterine life is crucial and any practical improvement in neonatal diagnostics and care would be beneficial for newborn puppy survival.
The Effect of Non-Circadian Photoperiod on Growth and Puberty Onset of Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis Mitchill
Authors: Lundova Katsiaryna , Matousek Jan , Stejskal Vlastimil
Published: March 2021

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of a prolonged photoperiod on growth rate and sexual maturation in brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis. The task of the experiment was to determine the most effective light regimen capable to minimizing the effects of puberty, including impairment of somatic growth and further general characteristics. In this regard, the studied fish were reared under three photoperiod regimens in which fish were exposed to 24 h continuous light alternating with 24 or 48 h under the ambient photoperiod or 48 h continuous light alternating with a 24 h ambient photoperiod. A control group was reared under the natural ambient photoperiod. Four-hundred and fifty fish with an average initial body weight of 101.3 ± 1.2 g were used for each experimental group (three replicates of each treatment plus control). A statistically lower growth rate showed control groups in both sexes. At the end of the study, control males had an average body weight of 226.6 ± 39.8 g and control females a body weight of 199.8 ± 12.2 g. At the same period, a significantly higher average body weight was found in groups reared 24 h under ambient photoperiod alternating with a 48 h continuous light regime (2CP:1AP) in both sexes (296.56 ± 62.5 g—males, and 239.9 ± 19.2 g—females, respectively). A significantly higher percentage of sexually mature fish was observed in the control group (80% of males and 29% of females, respectively). We found significantly fewer sexually mature females compared to males. The lowest survival was observed in group 2CP:1AP at 92%. It was concluded that regimen under which fish was exposed to 48 h of natural ambient photoperiod alternating with 24 h of constant light (1CP:2AP) lead to the successful delay of gonad development and onset of puberty and increased somatic growth in both sexes.
Occurrence and Genetic Diversity of Protist Parasites in Captive Non-Human Primates, Zookeepers, and Free-Living Sympatric Rats in the Córdoba Zoo Conservation Centre, Southern Spain
Authors: Köster Pamela C. , Dashti Alejandro , Bailo Begoña , Muadica Aly S. , Maloney Jenny G. , Santín Mónica , Chicharro Carmen , Migueláñez Silvia , Nieto Francisco J. , Cano-Terriza David , García-Bocanegra Ignacio , Guerra Rafael , Ponce-Gordo Francisco , Calero-Bernal Rafael , González-Barrio David , Carmena David
Published: March 2021

Little information is currently available on the epidemiology of parasitic and commensal protist species in captive non-human primates (NHP) and their zoonotic potential. This study investigates the occurrence, molecular diversity, and potential transmission dynamics of parasitic and commensal protist species in a zoological garden in southern Spain. The prevalence and genotypes of the main enteric protist species were investigated in faecal samples from NHP (n = 51), zookeepers (n = 19) and free-living rats (n = 64) by molecular (PCR and sequencing) methods between 2018 and 2019. The presence of Leishmania spp. was also investigated in tissues from sympatric rats using PCR. Blastocystis sp. (45.1%), Entamoeba dispar (27.5%), Giardia duodenalis (21.6%), Balantioides coli (3.9%), and Enterocytozoon bieneusi (2.0%) (but not Troglodytella spp.) were detected in NHP. Giardia duodenalis (10.5%) and Blastocystis sp. (10.5%) were identified in zookeepers, while Cryptosporidium spp. (45.3%), G. duodenalis (14.1%), and Blastocystis sp. (6.25%) (but not Leishmania spp.) were detected in rats. Blastocystis ST1, ST3, and ST8 and G. duodenalis sub-assemblage AII were identified in NHP, and Blastocystis ST1 in zookeepers. Giardia duodenalis isolates failed to be genotyped in human samples. In rats, four Cryptosporidium (C. muris, C. ratti, and rat genotypes IV and V), one G. duodenalis (assemblage G), and three Blastocystis (ST4) genetic variants were detected. Our results indicate high exposure of NHP to zoonotic protist species. Zoonotic transmission of Blastocysts ST1 was highly suspected between captive NHP and zookeepers.
Effects of a Partially Perforated Flooring System on Ammonia Emissions in Broiler Housing—Conflict of Objectives between Animal Welfare and Environment?
Authors: Adler Carolin , Schmithausen Alexander J. , Trimborn Manfred , Heitmann Sophia , Spindler Birgit , Tiemann Inga , Kemper Nicole , Büscher Wolfgang
Published: March 2021

A partially (50%) perforated flooring system showed positive effects on health- and behavior-based welfare indicators without affecting production performance. Ammonia (NH3) is the most common air pollutant in poultry production, with effects on animal welfare and the environment. The objectives of animal welfare and environmental protection are often incompatible. Therefore, this study addresses the question of how a partially perforated flooring system affects NH3 emissions. According to German regulations, three fattening periods were carried out with 500 Ross 308 broilers per barn (final stocking density: 39 kg m−2). The experimental barn was equipped with an elevated perforated area in the supply section, accessible by perforated ramps. The remaining area in the experimental barn and the control barn were equipped with wood shavings (600 g m−2). Besides the different floor types, management was identical. Air temperature (Temp), relative air humidity (RH), NH3 concentration, and ventilation rate (VR) were measured continuously. Furthermore, dry matter (DM) content, pH, and litter quality were assessed. Towards the end of the fattening periods, the NH3 emission rate (ER) of the partially perforated flooring system was higher compared with that of the littered control barn (all p < 0.001). This effect is mainly caused by the higher NH3 concentrations, which are promoted by the lack of compaction underneath the elevated perforated area and the increase in pH value under aerobic conditions. Nevertheless, the partially perforated flooring system offers different approaches for NH3 reduction that were previously not feasible, potentially contributing equally to animal welfare and environmental protection.
Reviewing the Review: A Pilot Study of the Ethical Review Process of Animal Research in Sweden
Authors: Jörgensen Svea , Lindsjö Johan , Weber Elin M. , Röcklinsberg Helena
Published: March 2021

The use of animals in research entails a range of societal and ethical issues, and there is widespread consensus that animals are to be kept safe from unnecessary suffering. Therefore, harm done to animals in the name of research has to be carefully regulated and undergo ethical review for approval. Since 2013, this has been enforced within the European Union through Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes. However, critics argue that the directive and its implementation by member states do not properly consider all aspects of animal welfare, which risks causing unnecessary animal suffering and decreased public trust in the system. In this pilot study, the ethical review process in Sweden was investigated to determine whether or not the system is in fact flawed, and if so, what may be the underlying cause of this. Through in-depth analysis of 18 applications and decisions of ethical reviews, we found that there are recurring problems within the ethical review process in Sweden. Discrepancies between demands set by legislation and the structure of the application form lead to submitted information being incomplete by design. In turn, this prevents the Animal Ethics Committees from being able to fulfill their task of performing a harm–benefit analysis and ensuring Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement (the 3Rs). Results further showed that a significant number of applications failed to meet legal requirements regarding content. Similarly, no Animal Ethics Committee decision contained any account of evaluation of the 3Rs and a majority failed to include harm–benefit analysis as required by law. Hence, the welfare may be at risk, as well as the fulfilling of the legal requirement of only approving “necessary suffering”. We argue that the results show an unacceptably low level of compliance in the investigated applications with the legal requirement of performing both a harm–benefit analysis and applying the 3Rs within the decision-making process, and that by implication, public insight through transparency is not achieved in these cases. In order to improve the ethical review, the process needs to be restructured, and the legal demands put on both the applicants and the Animal Ethics Committees as such need to be made clear. We further propose a number of improvements, including a revision of the application form. We also encourage future research to further investigate and address issues unearthed by this pilot study.
Modeling the Dynamic Behavior of a Pilot-Operated Solenoid Valve for an Ultra-High Pressure Vessel
Authors: Choi Jaeseong , Ahn Jung Hwan , Kim Hwa Young
Published: March 2021

A pilot-operated solenoid valve is used to control ultra-high pressure vessels. However, it is difficult to understand its dynamic behavior because the valve operates under ultra-high pressure conditions and the driving unit moves in a multi-step fashion in a tight hidden space. This study aims to identify the system coefficient, especially the damping coefficient, required to analyze the dynamic behavior of a solenoid driving unit. Experiments to measure the dynamic behavior of the driving unit are conducted using two laser sensors and one accelerator. The damping coefficient is estimated using Matlab Simulink, by varying the damping coefficient to match the experimental results. The obtained system coefficients are modeled as equations of motion. It is verified that the valve motion consists of two sequential movements—Phase 1 by pilot plunger and Phase 2 by main plunger, pilot plunger, and the valve initiation time is as fast as 9.9 ms. The damping coefficient of each phase is estimated 0.001 N ∙ s/mm for Phase 1, 0.004 N ∙ s/mm for Phase 2.
CFD Simulations on the Rotor Dynamics of a Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine Activated from Stationary
Authors: Hsu Cheng-Hsing , Chen Jun-Liang , Yuan Shan-Chi , Kung Kuang-Yuan
Published: March 2021

The adaptive dynamic mesh, user-defined functions, and six degrees of freedom (6DOF) solver provided in ANSYS FLUENT 14 are engaged to simulate the activating processes of the rotor of the Grumman WS33 wind system. The rotor is activated from stationary to steady operation driven by a steady or periodic wind flow and its kinematic properties and power generation during the activating processes. The angular velocity and angular acceleration are calculated directly by the post-processed real-time 6DOF solver without presuming a known rotating speed to the computational grid frame. The maximum angular velocity of the rotor is approximately proportional to the driving wind speed, and its maximal angular acceleration is also closely proportional to the square of the driving wind speed. The evolution curves of the normalized rotor angular velocities and accelerations are almost identical due to the self-similarity properties of the rotor angular velocities and accelerations. The angular velocity of the rotor will reach its steady value. One can use these steady angular velocities to predict the mechanical power generations of the rotor. The momentum analysis theory and the blade element momentum method are applied to predicted power generations and reveal good agreements with experimental data in the low wind speed range.