bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-metamorphic skeletal growth in the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus and implications for body plan evolution
Authors: Thompson Jeffrey R. , Paganos Periklis , Benvenuto Giovanna , Arnone Maria Ina , Oliveri Paola
Published: April 2021

Background

Understanding the molecular and cellular processes that underpin animal development are crucial for understanding the diversity of body plans found on the planet today. Because of their abundance in the fossil record, and tractability as a model system in the lab, skeletons provide an ideal experimental model to understand the origins of animal diversity. We herein use molecular and cellular markers to understand the growth and development of the juvenile sea urchin (echinoid) skeleton.

Results

We developed a detailed staging scheme based off of the first ~ 4 weeks of post-metamorphic life of the regular echinoidParacentrotus lividus. We paired this scheme with immunohistochemical staining for neuronal, muscular, and skeletal tissues, and fluorescent assays of skeletal growth and cell proliferation to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying skeletal growth and development of the sea urchin body plan.

Conclusions

Our experiments highlight the role of skeletogenic proteins in accretionary skeletal growth and cell proliferation in the addition of new metameric tissues. Furthermore, this work provides a framework for understanding the developmental evolution of sea urchin body plans on macroevolutionary timescales.
EIF5A2 enhances stemness of epithelial ovarian cancer cells via a E2F1/KLF4 axis
Authors: Wang Kun , Wang Yiyang , Wang Yuanjian , Liu Shujie , Wang Chunyan , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Tianli , Yang Xingsheng
Published: April 2021

Background

Ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSC), endowed with tumor-initiating and self-renewal capacity, would account not only for the tumor growth, the peritoneal metastasis, and the relapse, but also for the acquisition of chemotherapy resistance. Nevertheless, figuring out their phenotypical and functional traits has proven quite challenging, mainly because of the heterogeneity of ovarian cancer. A deeper understanding of OCSC mechanisms will shed light on the development of the disease. Therefore, we aim to explore it for the design of innovative treatment regimens which aim at the eradication of ovarian cancer through the elimination of the CSC component.

Methods

In this study, immunohistochemistry assay and western blot assay were used to detect protein expression in the primary tumor and peritoneal multi-cellular aggregates/spheroids (MCAs/MCSs). OCSCs induced from cell line SKOV3 and HO-8910 were enriched in a serum-free medium (SFM). The effect of EIF5A2 on CSC-like properties was detected by sphere-forming assays, re-differentiation assays, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, flow cytometry, cell viability assays, immunofluorescence staining, and in vivo xenograft experiments. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to reveal the mechanism by which EIF5A2 positively modulates the stem-like properties of ovarian cancer cells.

Results

Expression of EIF5A2 was significantly higher in peritoneal MCAs/MCSs compared to matched primary tumors, and EIF5A2 was also unregulated in ovarian cancer cell line-derived spheroids. Knockdown of EIF5A2 reduced the expression of the stem-related markers (ALDH1A1 and OCT-4), inhibited self-renewal ability, improved the sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs, and inhibited tumorigenesis in vivo. Mechanistic studies revealed that EIF5A2 knockdown reduced the expression of KLF4, which could partially rescue stem-like properties abolished by EIF5A2 knockdown or strengthened by EIF5A2 overexpression, through the transcription factor E2F1, which directly bind to KLF4 promoter.

Conclusion

Our results imply that EIF5A2 positively regulates stemness in ovarian cancer cells via E2F1/KLF4 pathway and may serve as a potential target in CSCs-targeted therapy for ovarian cancer.
GMP-compliant fully automated radiosynthesis of [18F]FEPPA for PET/MRI imaging of regional brain TSPO expression
Authors: Chang Chi-Wei , Chiu Chuang-Hsin , Lin Ming-Hsien , Wu Hung-Ming , Yu Tsung-Hsun , Wang Pao-Yeh , Kuo Yu-Yeh , Huang Ya-Yao , Shiue Chyng-Yann , Huang Wen-Sheng , Yeh Skye Hsin-Hsien
Published: April 2021

Background

Expression of translocator protein (TSPO) on the outer mitochondrial membrane of activated microglia is strongly associated with neuroinflammation. The second-generation PET ligand [18F]FEPPA specifically binds TSPO to enable in vivo visualization and quantification of neuroinflammation. We optimized a fully automated radiosynthesis method and evaluated the utility of [18F]FEPPA, the second-generation PET ligand specifically binds TSPO, in a mouse model of systemic LPS challenge to detect TSPO-associated signals of central and peripheral inflammation. In vivo dynamic PET/MR imaging was performed in LPS-induced and control mice after [18F]FEPPA administration. The relationship between the [18F]FEPPA signal and the dose of LPS was assessed. The cytokine levels (i.e., TNF-α, Il-1β, Il-6) in LPS-induced mice were measured by RT-PCR. Standard uptake value (SUV), total volume of distribution (VT) and area under the curve (AUC) were determined based on the metabolite-uncorrected plasma input function. Western blotting and immunostaining were used to measure TSPO expression in the brain.

Results

The fully automated [18F]FEPPA radiosynthesis produced an uncorrected radiochemical yield of 30 ± 2% within 80 min, with a radiochemical purity greater than 99% and specific activity of 148.9‒216.8 GBq/µmol. Significant differences were observed in the brain after [18F]FEPPA administration: SUV, VT and AUC were 1.61 ± 0.1, 1.25 ± 0.12 and 1.58 ± 0.09-fold higher in LPS-injected mice than controls. TNF-α, Il-1β and Il-6 mRNA levels were also elevated in the brains of LPS-injected mice. Western blotting revealed TSPO (p < 0.05) and Iba-1 (p < 0.01) were upregulated in the brain after LPS administration. In LPS-injected mice, TSPO immunoactivity colocalized with Iba-1 in the cerebrum and TSPO was significantly overexpressed in the hippocampus and cerebellum. The peripheral organs (heart, lung) of LPS-injected mice had higher [18F]FEPPA signal-to-noise ratios than control mice.

Conclusions

Based on the current data on ligand specificity and selectivity in central tissues using 7 T PET/MR imaging, we demonstrate that [18F]FEPPA accumulations significant increased in the specific brain regions of systemic LPS-induced neuroinflammation (5 mg/kg). Future investigations are needed to determine the sensitivity of [18F]FEPPA as a biomarker of neuroinflammation as well as the correlation between the PET signal intensity and the expression levels of TSPO.
Mechanism of antimicrobial activity of honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom on Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas spp.
Authors: Haktanir Izlem , Masoura Maria , Mantzouridou Fani Th , Gkatzionis Konstantinos
Published: April 2021

Honeybee venom (Apitoxin, BV), a secretion substance expelled from the venom gland of bees, has being reported as antimicrobial against various bacterial species; however, the mechanism of action remains uncharacterized. In this study, the antibacterial activity of BV was investigated on hygiene indicator Escherichia coli and the environmental pathogen and spoilage bacterial species, Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas fluorescens. An array of methods was combined to elucidate the mode of action of BV. Viability by culture on media was combined with assessing cell injury with flow cytometry analysis. ATP depletion was monitored as an indicator to metabolic activity of cells, by varying BV concentration (75, 225and 500 µg/mL), temperature (25 $$^\circ \complement $$

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and 37 $$^\circ \complement $$

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), and time of exposure (0 to 24 h). Venom presented moderate inhibitory effect on E. coli by viability assay, caused high membrane permeability and significant ATP loss where the effect was increased by increased concentration. The viability of P. putida was reduced to a greater extent than other tested bacteria at comparable venom concentrations and was dictated by exposure time. On the contrary, P. fluorescens appeared less affected by venom based on viability; however, flow cytometry and ATP analysis highlighted concentration- and time-dependent effect of venom. According to Transmission Electron Microscopy results, the deformation of the cell wall was evident for all species. This implies a common mechanism of action of the BV which is as follows: the cell wall destruction, change of membrane permeability, leakage of cell contents, inactivation of metabolic activity and finally cell death.
Pain and dyspnea control during awake fiberoptic bronchoscopy in critically ill patients: safety and efficacy of remifentanil target-controlled infusion
Authors: Caron Margot , Parrot Antoine , Elabbadi Alexandre , Dupeyrat Sophie , Turpin Matthieu , Baury Thomas , Rozencwajg Sacha , Blayau Clarisse , Fulgencio Jean-Pierre , Gibelin Aude , Blanchard Pierre-Yves , Rodriguez Séverine , Daigné Daisy , Allain Marie-Cécile , Fartoukh Muriel , Pham Tài
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy is frequently used in intensive care unit, but is a source of discomfort, dyspnea and anxiety for patients. Our objective was to assess the feasibility and tolerance of a sedation using remifentanil target-controlled infusion, to perform fiberoptic bronchoscopy in awake ICU patients.

Materials, patients and methods

This monocentric, prospective observational study was conducted in awake patients requiring fiberoptic bronchoscopy. In accordance with usual practices in our center, remifentanil target-controlled infusion was used under close monitoring and adapted to the patient’s reactions. The primary objective was the rate of successful procedures without additional analgesia or anesthesia. The secondary objectives were clinical tolerance and the comfort of patients (graded from “very uncomfortable” to “very comfortable”) and operators (numeric scale from 0 to 10) during the procedure.

Results

From May 2014 to December 2015, 72 patients were included. Most of them (69%) were hypoxemic and admitted for acute respiratory failure. No additional medication was needed in 96% of the patients. No severe side-effects occurred. Seventy-eight percent of patients described the procedure as “comfortable or very comfortable”. Physicians rated their comfort with a median [IQR] score of 9 [8–10].

Conclusion

Remifentanil target-controlled infusion administered to perform awake fiberoptic bronchoscopy in critically ill patients is feasible without requirement of additional analgesics or sedative drugs. Clinical tolerance as well as patients’ and operators’ comfort were good to excellent. This technique could benefit patients’ experience.
Performance evaluation of MIMO broadcast systems for advanced digital terrestrial TV
Authors: Shitomi Takuya , Shirai Noriyuki , Sato Akihiko , Kawashima Shogo , Ijiguchi Tomoya , Miyasaka Hiroaki , Asakura Shingo , Takeuchi Tomoaki , Kambara Kohei , Nakamura Madoka , Nakatogawa Tsuyoshi , Okano Masahiro , Tsuchida Kenichi
Published: April 2021

The transmission performance of spatial multiplexing cross-polarized MIMO is studied to determine how to increase the capacity of digital terrestrial broadcasting and make it more robust. In this paper, the performance was evaluated in laboratory experiments and large-scale field experiments in central Tokyo under three deployment scenarios. The results showed that the required received power can be improved by 7.3 dB when MIMO is introduced to enhance transmission robustness, i.e., maintaining the same transmission capacity as SISO. Alternatively, the transmission capacity can be doubled by introducing MIMO for the same robustness as SISO, requiring a slight increase in received power of 0.9 dB compared with SISO. The field experiments were performed by using a prototype transmission system for advanced digital terrestrial TV broadcasting in Japan, but the results obtained are also valid for 5G broadcasting. Regarding the feasibility of the advanced terrestrial broadcasting system operating at a target bit rate of about 60 Mbps to distribute a VVC-based 8 K program within a 6-MHz channel bandwidth, an increased received power of 3.7 dB compared with SISO was required for MIMO to achieve a higher transmission capacity in the worst case for 28 reception points evaluated in urban areas.
Bogdanov–Takens bifurcation of a Holling IV prey–predator model with constant-effort harvesting
Authors: Cheng Lifang , Zhang Litao
Published: April 2021

A prey–predator model with constant-effort harvesting on the prey and predators is investigated in this paper. First, we discuss the number and type of the equilibria by analyzing the equations of equilibria and the distribution of eigenvalues. Second, with the rescaled harvesting efforts as bifurcation parameters, a subcritical Hopf bifurcation is exhibited near the multiple focus and a Bogdanov–Takens bifurcation is also displayed near theBTsingularity by analyzing the versal unfolding of the model. With the variation of bifurcation parameters, the system shows multi-stable structure, and the attractive domains for different attractors are constituted by the stable and unstable manifolds of saddles and the limit cycles bifurcated from Hopf and Bogdanov–Takens bifurcations. Finally, a cusp point and two generalized Hopf points are found on the saddle-node bifurcation curve and the Hopf bifurcation curves, respectively. Several phase diagrams for parameters near one of the generalized Hopf points are exhibited through the generalized Hopf bifurcation.
Determinants of short birth interval among women in South Gondar, Ethiopia: community-based unmatched case-control study
Authors: Mihretie Gedefaye Nibret , Yenealem Beyene Fentahun , Getnet Kassa Bekalu , Degu Ayele Alemu , Muche Liyeh Tewachew , Minuye Birihane Binyam
Published: April 2021

Background

The effect of short birth interval on socio-economic, negative maternal and child health outcomes remains common in developing countries. This study aimed to assess determinants of short birth interval among reproductive age women, who gave birth in health institution for last six-month in South Gondar, Ethiopia 2019.

Methods

Community-based unmatched case control study design was conducted from February 1 to March 30, 2019. Sample size of 150 was included by simple random sampling technique. The data was collected by semi-structured and pre-tested face to face interviewer-administered questionnaire from selected respondent. The collected data was entered with Epi-Data version 3.1 and analyzed by using SPSS version 23 software. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were used to examine the association. Odds ratio, 95% CI and P-value < 0.05 were used to determine the statistical association.

Result

The mean age of the respondents was 32.42 (SD ± 5.14) and 35.12 (SD ± 5.86) for cases and controls, respectively. Mothers not used contraceptives (AOR = 6.29, 95% CI (1.95, 20.24)), participants who had ≤2 alive children (AOR = 5.57, 95% CI (1.47, 21.13)), mothers who breast fed less than 24 months (AOR = 3.42, 95% CI (1.38, 8.46)), husband decision on contraceptives utilization (AOR = 2.69,95% CI (1.05,6.88)) and mothers who did not have history of antenatal care follow up (AOR = 3.52, 95% CI (1.27, 9.75)) were associated with short birth interval.

Conclusion

The optimum birth spacing plays a vital role in decreasing fertility and the morbidity and mortality of mothers and children. Thus, providing health information on the benefit of breast feeding, follow-up of antenatal care during pregnancy, use of contraceptives after delivery and encouraging mothers to make decisions about their own health and use of contraceptives to optimize birth spacing for rural communities.
Effects of dietary fibers, micronutrients, and phytonutrients on gut microbiome: a review
Authors: Beane Kaleigh E. , Redding Mersady C. , Wang Xiaofan , Pan Jeong Hoon , Le Brandy , Cicalo Cara , Jeon Suwon , Kim Young Jun , Lee Jin Hyup , Shin Eui-Cheol , Li Ying , Zhao Jiangchao , Kim Jae Kyeom
Published: April 2021

The human gastrointestinal tract harbors a magnitude of bacteria, which are collectively known as the gut microbiome. Research has demonstrated that the gut microbiome significantly impacts the health of its host and alters the host’s risk for various chronic diseases. Many factors, such as diet, could potentially be manipulated to alter the host gut microbiome and induce subsequent preventative and/or therapeutic effects. It has been established that diet partakes in the regulation and maintenance of the gut microbiome; however, specific crosstalk between the microbiome, gut, and host has not been clearly elucidated in relation to diet. In this review of the scientific literature, we outline current knowledge of the differential effects of major plant-derived dietary constituents (fiber, phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals) on the diversity and composition of the gut microbiome.
Rhizosphere community selection reveals bacteria associated with reduced root disease
Authors: Yin Chuntao , Casa Vargas Juan M. , Schlatter Daniel C. , Hagerty Christina H. , Hulbert Scot H. , Paulitz Timothy C.
Published: April 2021

Background

Microbes benefit plants by increasing nutrient availability, producing plant growth hormones, and protecting against pathogens. However, it is largely unknown how plants change root microbial communities.

Results

In this study, we used a multi-cycle selection system and infection by the soilborne fungal pathogen Rhizoctonia solani AG8 (hereafter AG8) to examine how plants impact the rhizosphere bacterial community and recruit beneficial microorganisms to suppress soilborne fungal pathogens and promote plant growth. Successive plantings dramatically enhanced disease suppression on susceptible wheat cultivars to AG8 in the greenhouse. Accordingly, analysis of the rhizosphere soil microbial community using deep sequencing of 16S rRNA genes revealed distinct bacterial community profiles assembled over successive wheat plantings. Moreover, the cluster of bacterial communities formed from the AG8-infected rhizosphere was distinct from those without AG8 infection. Interestingly, the bacterial communities from the rhizosphere with the lowest wheat root disease gradually separated from those with the worst wheat root disease over planting cycles. Successive monocultures and application of AG8 increased the abundance of some bacterial genera which have potential antagonistic activities, such as Chitinophaga, Pseudomonas, Chryseobacterium, and Flavobacterium, and a group of plant growth-promoting (PGP) and nitrogen-fixing microbes, including Pedobacter, Variovorax, and Rhizobium. Furthermore, 47 bacteria isolates belong to 35 species were isolated. Among them, eleven and five exhibited antagonistic activities to AG8 and Rhizoctonia oryzae in vitro, respectively. Notably, Janthinobacterium displayed broad antagonism against the soilborne pathogens Pythium ultimum, AG8, and R. oryzae in vitro, and disease suppressive activity to AG8 in soil.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that successive wheat plantings and pathogen infection can shape the rhizosphere microbial communities and specifically accumulate a group of beneficial microbes. Our findings suggest that soil community selection may offer the potential for addressing agronomic concerns associated with plant diseases and crop productivity.
Sulfasalazine modifies metabolic profiles and enhances cisplatin chemosensitivity on cholangiocarcinoma cells in in vitro and in vivo models
Authors: Thanee Malinee , Padthaisong Sureerat , Suksawat Manida , Dokduang Hasaya , Phetcharaburanin Jutarop , Klanrit Poramate , Titapun Attapol , Namwat Nisana , Wangwiwatsin Arporn , Sa-ngiamwibool Prakasit , Khuntikeo Narong , Saya Hideyuki , Loilome Watcharin
Published: April 2021

Background

Sulfasalazine (SSZ) is widely known as an xCT inhibitor suppressing CD44v9-expressed cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) being related to redox regulation. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) has a high recurrence rate and no effective chemotherapy. A recent report revealed high levels of CD44v9-positive cells in CCA patients. Therefore, a combination of drugs could prove a suitable strategy for CCA treatment via individual metabolic profiling.

Methods

We examined the effect of xCT-targeted CD44v9-CSCs using sulfasalazine combined with cisplatin (CIS) or gemcitabine in CCA in vitro and in vivo models and did NMR-based metabolomics analysis of xenograft mice tumor tissues.

Results

Our findings suggest that combined SSZ and CIS leads to a higher inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of cell death than CIS alone in both in vitro and in vivo models. Xenograft mice showed that the CD44v9-CSC marker and CK-19-CCA proliferative marker were reduced in the combination treatment. Interestingly, different metabolic signatures and significant metabolites were observed in the drug-treated group compared with the control group that revealed the cancer suppression mechanisms.

Conclusions

SSZ could improve CCA therapy by sensitization to CIS through killing CD44v9-positive cells and modifying the metabolic pathways, in particular tryptophan degradation (i.e., kynurenine pathway, serotonin pathway) and nucleic acid metabolism.
Identity processes and eating disorder symptoms during university adjustment: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Foran Aoife-Marie , Muldoon Orla T. , O’Donnell Aisling T.
Published: April 2021

Background

Young people with eating disorders (EDs) and ED symptoms are at risk during university adjustment, suggesting a need to protect their health. The social identity approach proposes that people’s social connections – and the identity-related behaviour they derive from them – are important for promoting positive health outcomes. However, there is a limited understanding as to how meaningful everyday connections, supported by affiliative identities, may act to reduce ED symptoms during a life transition.

Methods

Two hundred eighty-one first year university students with an ED or ED symptoms completed an online survey during the first month of university. Participants completed self-reported measures of affiliative identity, social support, injunctive norms and ED symptoms. Path analysis was used to test a hypothesised mediated model, whereby affiliative identity has a significant indirect relation with ED symptoms via social support and injunctive norms.

Results

Results support the hypothesised model. We show that affiliative identity predicts lower self-reported ED symptoms, because of its relation with social support and injunctive norms.

Conclusions

The findings imply that affiliative identities have a positive impact on ED symptoms during university adjustment, because the social support derived from affiliative identity is associated with how people perceive norms around disordered eating. Our discussion emphasises the possibility of identity processes being a social cure for those at risk of ED symptoms.
Astrocytes respond to a neurotoxic Aβ fragment with state-dependent Ca2+ alteration and multiphasic transmitter release
Authors: Pham Cuong , Hérault Karine , Oheim Martin , Maldera Steeve , Vialou Vincent , Cauli Bruno , Li Dongdong
Published: April 2021

Excessive amounts of amyloid β (Aβ) peptide have been suggested to dysregulate synaptic transmission in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). As a major type of glial cell in the mammalian brain, astrocytes regulate neuronal function and undergo activity alterations upon Aβ exposure. Yet the mechanistic steps underlying astrocytic responses to Aβ peptide remain to be elucidated. Here by fluorescence imaging of signaling pathways, we dissected astrocytic responses to Aβ25–35 peptide, a neurotoxic Aβ fragment present in AD patients. In native health astrocytes, Aβ25–35 evoked Ca2+ elevations via purinergic receptors, being also dependent on the opening of connexin (CX) hemichannels. Aβ25–35, however, induced a Ca2+ diminution in Aβ-preconditioned astrocytes as a result of the potentiation of the plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase (PMCA). The PMCA and CX protein expression was observed with immunostaining in the brain tissue of hAPPJ20 AD mouse model. We also observed both Ca2+-independent and Ca2+-dependent glutamate release upon astrocytic Aβ exposure, with the former mediated by CX hemichannel and the latter by both anion channels and lysosome exocytosis. Our results suggest that Aβ peptide causes state-dependent responses in astrocytes, in association with a multiphasic release of signaling molecules. This study therefore helps to understand astrocyte engagement in AD-related amyloidopathy.
Design and validation of tailored colour reference charts for monitoring cultural heritage degradation
Authors: Ramírez Barat Blanca , Cano Emilio , Molina María Teresa , Barbero-Álvarez Miguel Antonio , Rodrigo Juan Antonio , Menéndez José Manuel
Published: April 2021

Colour changes of cultural heritage objects can be related with degradation of materials, thus a proper colour monitoring system can be used to detect conservation problems. With this purpose, a monitoring methodology for cultural heritage preventive conservation based on tailored colour reference charts and image analysis is proposed.

Reference colour charts have been designed and tested for use in museums. Charts containing 64 colour patches have been printed using high-stability inks on 4 different substrates: Acid-free paper SkyLight, Acid-free paper covered with a propylene film, FOREX® and GlassPack. The stability has been studied by accelerated ageing in an UV chamber, and the harmlessness of the materials by Oddy Test. The final selection of material, laminated paper, is a balance between the colour change upon ageing and the performance in the Oddy Test. Using this material and the proposed design, colour change of copper and silver coupons has been assessed using images that are adjusted and calibrated by an adaptive calibration framework employing a given set of reference colours which homogenises the visual information in the supplied images. Thus, regardless of the camera of origin, any processed picture will deliver reliable information of the state of the colour in the metal surfaces at the moment it was taken.

Results demonstrate the adequacy of the approach and the design for colour calibration, so these charts can be used to monitor colour change of sensitive materials –metal coupons– using photographs. As colour change of reference metals is a consequence of corrosion by environmental factors this may be used as a measure of air quality in museum environments. This methodology can be used to design a low-cost preventive conservation tool, where colour change of metal coupons –or other reference materials– can be followed through image analysis of pictures taken periodically by conservators or visitors, introducing citizen science in the conservation strategy.
Aiding the cleaning of four 19th-century Tsimshian house posts: investigation of museum-applied surface coatings and original polychromy
Authors: Pozzi Federica , Basso Elena , Alderson Samantha , Levinson Judith , Neiman Madeleine , Alcalá Soraya
Published: April 2021

The collection of the American Museum of Natural History, New York, includes a set of four elaborately painted 19th-century Tsimshian house posts that have been on continuous open display for more than a century. Over time, these objects have accumulated surface grime, and several coating layers applied in undocumented past restoration campaigns, some of which have yellowed with age. The combination of heavy soiling and multiple coatings has obscured the underlying polychromy, shifting the colors of the wood and paints, and yielding improper surface appearances. Further, some of the coatings appeared to have sunk into the media-lean paints, complicating removal. Questions regarding the number, types, and timing of coating applications, as well as the nature of some of the paint below, set the stage for an in-depth technical study aiming to inform the conservation treatment of these poles being undertaken in connection with the renovation of the Northwest Coast Hall at the museum. Microscopic examination of numerous cross sections removed from the four house posts under polarized and ultraviolet (UV) illumination shed light on the number of coating layers present in selected areas and their location in relation to the overall stratigraphy. Micro-invasive analysis of samples relied on a combination of spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques, including transmission Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, attenuated total reflection (ATR)-FTIR spectroscopy, and pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS), aiming to determine the exact chemical composition of the coatings. Portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF), FTIR, Raman, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopies (SEM/EDS) provided insight into the color palette used, with a focus on green paints. Investigation of the coatings revealed the application of multiple layers, including cellulose nitrate and localized areas of polyvinyl acetal. Analysis of the paint identified a limited range of inorganic pigments and, additionally, assisted in tackling issues that arose during the cleaning of specific colored areas. Results from this technical study helped address outstanding questions regarding this group of historical Tsimshian house posts, informing the development of a suitable treatment tailored to the safe removal or reduction of surface coatings and grime, ultimately improving the legibility of the design and colors.
A highly sensitive fluorescent probe for ozone based on coumarin-benzothiazole derivative
Authors: Chen Kangni , Li Yanbo , Shang Jinyan , Zhao Chao , Li Heping
Published: April 2021

Ozone is widely used in daily life, but studies have shown that O3 can damage human trachea and lungs, leading to diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop a simple and efficient detection method for monitoring O3 in living cells. In this study, 3-(but-3-en-1-yl)-2-(7-(but-3-en-1-yloxy)-2-oxo-2H-chromen-3-yl)benzo[d]thiazol-3-ium (BCT) as a new type of water-soluble fluorescent probe was synthesized by substitution reaction of 4-bromo-1-butene and hydroxycoumarin-benzothiazole derivatives, which can specifically detect ozone in aqueous solution. The interaction of ozone on the probe can be completed within 20 min, the fluorescence intensity is significantly enhanced, and it has the advantages of high sensitivity (detection limit LOD = 43 nM). The influence of pH on the fluorescent performance of BCT shows that the probe with super stability under weak alkali and acidic environment, which provides the necessary conditions for its detection of ozone in physiological system detection. Therefore, BCT is expected to become an effective tool for detecting ozone in cellular organisms.
Microscopic evidence of strong interactions between chemical vapor deposited 2D MoS2 film and SiO2 growth template
Authors: Sohn Woonbae , Kwon Ki Chang , Suh Jun Min , Lee Tae Hyung , Roh Kwang Chul , Jang Ho Won
Published: April 2021

Two-dimensional MoS2 film can grow on oxide substrates including Al2O3 and SiO2. However, it cannot grow usually on non-oxide substrates such as a bare Si wafer using chemical vapor deposition. To address this issue, we prepared as-synthesized and transferred MoS2 (AS-MoS2 and TR-MoS2) films on SiO2/Si substrates and studied the effect of the SiO2 layer on the atomic and electronic structure of the MoS2 films using spherical aberration-corrected scanning transition electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). The interlayer distance between MoS2 layers film showed a change at the AS-MoS2/SiO2 interface, which is attributed to the formation of S–O chemical bonding at the interface, whereas the TR-MoS2/SiO2 interface showed only van der Waals interactions. Through STEM and EELS studies, we confirmed that there exists a bonding state in addition to the van der Waals force, which is the dominant interaction between MoS2 and SiO2. The formation of S–O bonding at the AS-MoS2/SiO2 interface layer suggests that the sulfur atoms at the termination layer in the MoS2 films are bonded to the oxygen atoms of the SiO2 layer during chemical vapor deposition. Our results indicate that the S–O bonding feature promotes the growth of MoS2 thin films on oxide growth templates.
Ultrasound features of medullary thyroid cancer as predictors of biological behavior
Authors: Zhao Jingzhu , Zheng Xiangqian , Gao Ming , Zhang Sheng , Yun Xinwei , Chi Jiadong , Xu Guangwei
Published: April 2021

Background

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) has more aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. Ultrasound (US) has facilitated the qualitative diagnosis of thyroid nodules, however, some MTC may be diagnosed as a benign nodule on ultrasound because ultrasound features of malignancy are lacking. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between ultrasound features and biological behavior of MTC.

Methods

Ultrasound findings and medical records of patients with MTC between Jan 2015 to Jun 2017 were retrospectively reviewed at Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital. MTC were categorized using modified TI-RADS classification, then were classified as “malignant” (m-MTC) or “US-low-suspicious” (l-MTC). We compared the biological behavior between the two groups, and further analyzed the risk factors for the recurrence.

Results

A total of 78 patients were enrolled, of which 55 m-MTC (70.5%) and 23 l-MTC (29.5%) were identified. The N staging of the m-MTC was significantly higher than that of l-MTC(P = 0.000). The preoperative serum Ct level in m-MTC were significantly higher than that of l-MTC(P = 0.035). Biochemical cure were more frequent in l-MTC than that of m-MTC (P = 0.002). Disease recurrence rates were 19.7% (14 of 71). Disease recurrence was more frequent in m-MTC than that of l-MTC (P = 0.013). Disease recurrence was positively associated with extrathyroid extension (P = 0.047), N staging (P = 0.003), preoperative serum Ct level (P = 0.009) and negatively associated with biochemical cure(P = 0.000). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, extrathyroid extension and biochemical cure were independent risk factors for recurrence of MTC.

Conclusions

L-MTC has a more indolent character than m-MTC. The extrathyroid extension and biochemical cure were independent risk factors for recurrence of MTC.
The validation of a Japanese language version of the postoperative quality of recovery scale: a prospective observational study
Authors: Yamashita Koki , Boggett Stuart , Kodama Yoshifumi , Tsuneyoshi Isao , Royse Colin
Published: April 2021

Background

The Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale (PostopQRS) is a survey-based tool that measures quality of the postoperative recovery in multiple domains over multiple time periods. The purpose of this study is to validate the Japanese version of the PostopQRS.

Methods

A prospective observational study using bilingual healthy volunteers was conducted in Australia to assess equivalence of the test values between the two languages. To assess the feasibility and discriminant validity of the PostopQRS in a Japanese population, an observational study was conducted on patients undergoing ear-nose-throat and orthopedic surgery in Japan, with measurements performed prior to surgery, 2 h, and 1, 3, and 7 days following surgery. The survey was conducted face-to-face while in hospital and via the telephone following discharge.

Results

Sixty-eight volunteers participated in the validation study. The scores in the Japanese version were similar to the English version in all domains at all timepoints. In the cognitive domain, there were no differences between the Japanese and English versions for word recall and word generation tasks. For digits forwards and digits backwards the values were skewed to the maximal value, and although significantly different, the absolute difference was <10% at all timepoints between English and Japanese versions. Fifty-one patients, ear-nose-throat (n=22) and orthopedic (n=29), were included in the clinical study. Orthopedic patients had a significantly worse recovery profile over time in overall recovery (p<0.01), physiological (p=0.02), nociceptive (p=0.03), and activities of daily living (ADL, p<0.01) domains, but was not different for emotive (p=0.30) or cognitive domains (p=0.10).

Conclusion

The Japanese version of the PostopQRS is similar to the English version and was able to discriminate recovery between different surgery disciplines.

Trial registration

UMIN, UMIN000033268, Registered 6 August 2018.
Correction to references
Authors:   Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Triple combination therapy with telmisartan, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide ameliorates albuminuria in a normotensive rat remnant kidney model
Authors: Ito Sakuya , Nakayama Yosuke , Kodama Goh , Ota Kanji , Taguchi Kensei , Kaida Yusuke , Yamagishi Sho-ichi , Fukami Kei
Published: April 2021

Background

Some types of antihypertensive drugs may have pleiotropic effects in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, whether triple combination therapy with angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), and thiazide diuretics (TZD) confer renoprotective effects in normotensive CKD remains unknown. Thus, we explored this issue using a normotensive rat remnant kidney model.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated into four groups: sham (n = 10), 5/6 nephrectomy (NTx) (n = 9), NTx treated with telmisartan and amlodipine (dual) (n = 8), and NTx treated with telmisartan, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide (triple) (n = 7), and followed for 4 weeks. Blood pressure (BP), blood chemistry including renal function, urinary albumin excretion (UAE), and renal pathology were evaluated in all groups.

Results

There was no significant change in systolic BP among the four groups during the study period. Serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) was significantly higher, and 24-h creatinine clearance (Ccr) was lower in all NTx groups (p < 0.001). Dual therapy further increased the glomerular diameter in NTx rats (p < 0.001), which was significantly ameliorated by triple therapy (p < 0.001). Triple therapy, but not dual therapy, significantly reduced NTx-induced UAE levels (p < 0.05), whereas BUN, 24-h Ccr, and tubulointerstitial injury scores were comparable among all the NTx groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that triple combination therapy with telmisartan, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide could ameliorate glomerular hypertrophy and albuminuria in normotensive CKD rats in a BP-lowering independent manner.
Real-time prediction of short-timescale fluctuations in cognitive workload
Authors: Boehm Udo , Matzke Dora , Gretton Matthew , Castro Spencer , Cooper Joel , Skinner Michael , Strayer David , Heathcote Andrew
Published: April 2021

Human operators often experience large fluctuations in cognitive workload over seconds timescales that can lead to sub-optimal performance, ranging from overload to neglect. Adaptive automation could potentially address this issue, but to do so it needs to be aware of real-time changes in operators’ spare cognitive capacity, so it can provide help in times of peak demand and take advantage of troughs to elicit operator engagement. However, it is unclear whether rapid changes in task demands are reflected in similarly rapid fluctuations in spare capacity, and if so what aspects of responses to those demands are predictive of the current level of spare capacity. We used the ISO standard detection response task (DRT) to measure cognitive workload approximately every 4 s in a demanding task requiring monitoring and refueling of a fleet of simulated unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). We showed that the DRT provided a valid measure that can detect differences in workload due to changes in the number of UAVs. We used cross-validation to assess whether measures related to task performance immediately preceding the DRT could predict detection performance as a proxy for cognitive workload. Although the simple occurrence of task events had weak predictive ability, composite measures that tapped operators’ situational awareness with respect to fuel levels were much more effective. We conclude that cognitive workload does vary rapidly as a function of recent task events, and that real-time predictive models of operators’ cognitive workload provide a potential avenue for automation to adapt without an ongoing need for intrusive workload measurements.
Breast cancer: comparison of quantitative dual-layer spectral CT and axillary ultrasonography for preoperative diagnosis of metastatic axillary lymph nodes
Authors: Buus Thomas Winther , Sandahl Mads , Thorup Kennet Sønderstgaard , Rasmussen Finn , Redsted Søren , Christiansen Peer , Jensen Anders Bonde , Pedersen Erik Morre
Published: April 2021

Background

Our aim was to compare the diagnostic performance of quantitative dual-layer spectral computed tomography (DLSCT) and axillary ultrasound (US) for diagnosing lymph node metastases in breast cancer patients.

Methods

DLSCT and axillary US were prospectively performed in 70 needle biopsy-verified breast cancer patients. Histopathology and imaging data were available for evaluation in 36 axillae from 34 patients. In each patient, ipsilateral, contralateral, and inguinal lymph nodes (LNs) were semiautomatically segmented, and iodine density, spectral slope, Z effective, virtual non-contrast (VNC), conventional CT HU values, and Δ contrast enhancement (ΔCE, conventional CT HU minus VNC) were measured. Using histopathology as reference, the diagnostic performance of DLSCT and axillary US was compared.

Results

Of 36 axillae, 23 had metastatic lymph nodes. Compared with non-metastatic LNs, metastatic LNs had significantly different iodine density (p = 0.021), spectral slope (p < 0.001), Z effective (p < 0.001), conventional CT HU values (p < 0.01), and ΔCE (p < 0.01). All DLSCT parameters were significantly different between arterial phase and portal-venous phase (p < 0.001) except for VNC (p = 0.092). ΔCE had the highest diagnostic performance (sensitivity 0.79, specificity 0.92, positive predictive value 0.95, negative predictive value 0.69) with a significantly increased sensitivity compared with conventional CT HU (p = 0.027). There were no significant differences between ΔCE and axillary US for sensitivity (p = 1.000) or specificity (p = 0.320).

Conclusions

DLSCT is a promising quantitative technique for evaluating LN metastases and could potentially reduce the need for sentinel LN biopsy.
Thoracic spinal anesthesia for cesarean section in severe pre-eclampsia: exploring a new dimension
Authors: Chauhan Rajeev , Sabharwal Pranshuta , Sarna Rashi , Meena Shyamcharan
Published: April 2021

Background

Severe pre-eclampsia poses a dilemma for the anesthesiologist especially in emergency situations where cesarean deliveries are done for the un-investigated or partially investigated parturient. Hemodynamic stability is the major goal of anesthetic management of these patients. Thoracic spinal anesthesia has been successfully given for various surgeries like breast cancer and abdominal cancer but not for cesarean section.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 35-year-old at 33+5-week period of gestation with severe pre-eclampsia and bullous lesions managed successfully with segmental thoracic spinal anesthesia. General anesthesia in this patient could have been risky as the patient was not fasting; airway bullous lesions could not be ruled out and Mallampati grade was III on airway examination. Presence of lesions in lumbar region precluded the lumbar spinal technique. The technique was associated with an adequate level of the sensory block during lower segment cesarean section, a high degree of hemodynamic stability, and a high patient satisfaction

Conclusion

Segmental thoracic spinal anesthesia can be used successfully and effectively for lower segment cesarean section by experienced anesthetists. Further studies are warranted to compare its effect, especially on hemodynamics with known techniques.
Antioxidant activities of spray-dried carotenoids using maltodextrin-Arabic gum as wall materials
Authors: González-Peña Marco Antonio , Lozada-Ramírez José Daniel , Ortega-Regules Ana Eugenia
Published: April 2021

Background

Carotenoids are natural pigments that are highly sensitive to light, heat, acids, oxygen, metals, and free radicals, which degrade the antioxidant activities of carotenoids. Microencapsulation techniques have been used to prevent carotenoid degradation and preserve their antioxidant activities. In this work, we aimed to encapsulate mamey (Pouteria sapota) and carrot (Daucus carota) carotenoids in mixtures of maltodextrin (10% w/v) and Arabic gum (5 or 10% w/v) by spray-drying. The obtained powders were stored at different temperatures (4 and 25 °C) with or without access to daylight, and changes in color, carotenoid content, and antioxidant activity were analyzed monthly for three months. Moreover, the in vivo antioxidant activities of spray-dried carotenoids were evaluated in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Results

The carotenoid and antioxidant activity losses of stored carotenoids were found in the following order: 25 °C in daylight > 25 °C without access to daylight > 4 °C without access to daylight. Moreover, the combination of maltodextrin and Arabic gum (10%) was more effective to prevent carotenoid loss compared to maltodextrin and Arabic gum (5%). In vivo antioxidant activity results showed that spray-dried carotenoids reduced approximately 30% of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in nematodes, even after three months of storage.

Conclusions

Mamey and carrot carotenoids were successfully encapsulated by the spray-drying technique. The spray-dried carotenoids effectively reduced the intracellular ROS levels and neutralized the oxidative stress damage in C. elegans, even after three months of storage. Moreover, the antioxidant activities of mamey carotenoids were equally effective as those of carrot carotenoids, meaning that mamey carotenoids could be seen as an alternative source of carotenoids.
Review of oxidative stress and antioxidative defense mechanisms in Gossypium hirsutum L. in response to extreme abiotic conditions
Authors: QAMER Zainab , CHAUDHARY Muhammad Tanees , DU Xiongming , HINZE Lori , AZHAR Muhammad Tehseen
Published: April 2021

Oxidative stress occurs when crop plants are exposed to extreme abiotic conditions that lead to the excessive production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Those extreme abiotic conditions or stresses include drought, high temperature, heavy metals, salinity, and ultraviolet radiation, and they cause yield and quality losses in crops. ROS are highly reactive species found in nature that can attack plant organelles, metabolites, and molecules by interrupting various metabolic pathways until cell death occurs. Plants have evolved defense mechanisms for the production of antioxidants to detoxify the ROS and to protect the plant against oxidative damage. Modern researches in crop plants revealed that low levels of ROS act as a signal which induces tolerance to environmental extremes by altering the expression of defensive genes. In this review, we summarized the processes involved in ROS production in response to several types of abiotic stress in cotton plants. Furthermore, we discussed the achievements in the understanding and improving oxidative stress tolerance in cotton in recent years. Researches related to plant oxidative stresses have shown excellent potential for the development of stress-tolerant crops.