bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Kawasaki disease with muscle weakness and urinary retention: A case report
Authors: Sang Yating , Luo Lili , Qiao Lina
Published: December 2023

Background
Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic immune vasculitis affecting multiple organs and systems in children, and is prevalent in children under 5 years of age. Myasthenia gravis is a rare manifestation of KD, and only 11 pediatric patients with KD combined with myasthenia gravis have been reported, of which evidence of myasthenia gravis was found in 2/3 of the patients, and 1/3 could not be explained by myasthenia gravis, the mechanism of which is still unclear.Cases of KD combined with urinary retention are even more rare, and there has been only 1 case report of KD combined with urinary retention in a child with no previous underlying disease.
Case presentation:
We report a 22-month-old Asian child with severe KD who initially presented with fever and muscle weakness in the lower extremities, which progressed to progressive muscle weakness in the extremities, followed by urinary and fecal retention and rapid onset of heart failure, respiratory failure and shock. The child developed coronary artery dilatation without the main clinical features of Kawasaki disease such as rash, conjunctival congestion, desquamation of the extremity endings, orofacial changes and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. Muscle enzymes and electromyography were normal. Temperature gradually normalized and muscle strength recovered slightly after intravenous immunoglobulin. The child could be helped to walk after 1 week of aspirin combined with prednisone therapy.
Conclusions
We present the case of a 22-month-old child with severe KD. The child began with progressive muscle weakness in the extremities, followed by urinary and fecal retention, and rapidly developed heart failure, expiratory failure, and shock. Despite early failure to detect the disease, the child recovered rapidly and had a favorable prognosis. KD comorbidities with muscle weakness as the main manifestation are uncommon. This is the first case report of severe Kawasaki disease combined with both muscle weakness and rectal bladder dysfunction, which may provide clinicians with diagnostic and therapeutic ideas, as well as a basis for future exploration of the mechanisms of KD combined with muscle weakness or urinary retention.
Network analysis to trace the common key gene (s) involved in antihyperglycemic effects mediated through co-supplementation of Vitamin D and Metformin
Authors: Tyagi Sakshi , Mani Shalini
Published: December 2023

Metformin, an antihyperglycemic drug has been known for centuries as the first treatment for diabetes mellitus. Likewise, vitamin D is also recognized for its role in boosting insulin action and improving insulin sensitivity. There is also evidence supporting their combined effect as an antihyperglycemic agent. However, key genes associated with their combined antihyperglycemic effect have not been explored yet. Thus, our in-silico study aims to explore the key genes associated with metformin and VDR signaling that could aid in managing hyperglycemia as well as explore other health benefits. We have used a systems biology approach for the construction of the metformin-VDR network and it was found to be hierarchical scale-free in nature. The statistical parameters including node degree distribution, and clustering coefficient, were calculated. Out of the several prominent hubs, which served as the network's backbone and contained several critical regulators as well as potential target genes, we were able to identify a few key regulators. Modules with comparable functions were also identified. We found the top 14 key regulators namely G0S2, DDIT4, IL6, PRKAA1, EGFR, mTOR, PPARGC1A, CYBA, CYBB, NCF1, NCF2, NCF4, NOX1 and NOX3. While reviewing the function of these key genes and their association with vitamin D and/or metformin, most of these genes were analyzed to be involved in regulating glucose levels as well as alleviating hyperglycemia-induced inflammation and oxidative stress. Based on the prediction from our study, these key regulatory genes may be proposed to be involved in the combined antihyperglycemic effects of vitamin D and metformin. These genes mayfurther be explored as a probable therapeutic target for the management of diabetes as well as accompanying disorders.
Urea promoted soil microbial community and reduced the residual ciprofloxacin in soil and its uptake by Chinese flowering cabbage
Authors: Wu Xiaolian , Jin Chenze , Du Gengying , Wang Jianan , Su Jiayi , Li Rongxuan
Published: December 2023

Antibiotics in agricultural soil can accumulate in crops and might pose a potential risk to human health. Nevertheless, there is a lack of knowledge about the impact of nitrogen fertilizers on the dissipation and uptake of antibiotics in soils. Therefore, our aim in this study is to investigate the effects of urea fertilizer on the residues of ciprofloxacin and its uptake by Chinese flowering cabbage (Brassica parachinensis L.) as affected by the associated changes on the soil microbial community. A pot experiment has been conducted using spiked soil with 20 mg ciprofloxacin /kg soil and fertilized with urea at dosages equal to 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8 t/ha. Application of urea at the three dosages, in particular at 0.4 t/ha, decreased the residue of ciprofloxacin in the soil and its uptake by the roots and its translocation to the shoots of Chinese flowering cabbage. The TFs for ciprofloxacin were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) only at the treatment of 0.4 t/ha, while no significant difference of BCFs. The average well color development (AWCD) values, Shannon diversity, and richness index were higher in the fertilized than the un-fertilized soils both in the planted and un-planted soils, and all such indicators were greater at the treatment of 0.4 t/ha than at 0.2 and 0.8 t/ha. The carbon substrate utilization of phenolic acids at the treatments of 0.4 t/ha were greater than with other levels of urea fertilizer. In conclusion, moderate urea addition significantly increased soil microbial activity and abundance, which in turn promoted the ciprofloxacin dissipationin soil and plant tissue. The present study provides an economical and operational for the remediation of ciprofloxacincontaminated soils.
Parametric Analysis of Sloshing Height in Concrete Liquid Storage Tanks: A FE-SPH Coupled Approach with Box-Behnken Design of Experiments
Authors: Soltani Pouya , Mirzabozorg Hassan
Published: December 2023

This study aims to investigate sloshing height in liquid storage tanks using a coupled FE-SPH technique. A novel approach employing the Box-Behnken method for efficient analysis design is introduced, ensuring the consideration of key parameters to obtain accurate results. The Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) formulation is utilized to simulate liquid behavior under large amplitude sloshing waves, while the finite element method models the structural response. The analysis reveals that fluid height is the primary geometric parameter affecting sloshing, with tank length considered a secondary factor. The frequency characteristics of ground motion significantly influence sloshing height, thereby impacting the liquid's behavior in the container. For future studies, we recommend focusing on the Box-Behnken design parameters: Acceleration Spectrum Intensity ASI and liquid tank height. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing the design and analysis of liquid storage tanks, paving the way for enhanced structural safety and performance.
A retrospective comparative study of double cleavage-stage embryo transfer versus single blastocyst in frozen-thawed cycles
Authors: Lim Yun Hsuen , Sim Poo Keen , Nadkarni Prashant
Published: December 2023

Background
This retrospective study aimed to compare the outcomes of Day 3 double embryo transfer (DET) with single blastocyst transfer (SBT) during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. A total of 999 women below the age of 38 years who underwent FET at Malaysia’s KL Fertility & Gynaecology Centre from January 2019 to December 2021 were analysed. Patients with autologous eggs were recruited in the study. All the eggs were inseminated by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The embryos were vitrified on Day 3 cleavage-stage or blastocyst stage with Cryotop® method. The FET were performed following natural cycle (NC), modified natural cycle (m-NC) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycles. The NC and m-NC groups received oral dydrogesterone for luteal phase support.
Results
There were no statistical differences in the rates of positive pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy between the two groups. However, implantation rates were significantly higher in the SBT group (50.1% versus 37.6%, p < 0.05). The Day 3 DET group had significantly higher multiple pregnancy rates (28.7% versus 1.1%, p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis of embryo transfers performed following NC, m-NC or HRT cycles showed similar results.
Conclusions
This study suggests that SBT is the better choice for embryo transfers as it had higher implantation rates and its pregnancy rates were similar to Day 3 DET. The SBT also significantly reduced the incidence of multiple pregnancies without compromising pregnancy rates.
Diel and seasonal mixing patterns and water quality dynamics in a multipurpose tropical semiarid reservoir
Authors: Rocha Maria Aparecida Melo , Barros Mário Ubirajara Gonçalves , Filho Francisco de Assis de Souza , Neto Iran Eduardo Lima
Published: December 2023

Eutrophication has become a recurrent concern in reservoirs worldwide. This problem is intensified in tropical semiarid regions, where the reservoirs have high seasonal and annual variability of water level and volume. Therefore, an extensive understanding of the diel variation of water quality key-parameters can help improve management of such reservoirs. This study focuses on Castanhão reservoir, the largest multipurpose dam in the Brazilian semiarid. Its main water uses are irrigation, fish farming, and human supply. The reservoir faced a decline in water quality due to a prolonged drought period. While previous research has predominantly emphasized the seasonal dynamics of thermal and chemical stratification, our investigation provides diel assessments of multiple water quality parameters, including nutrient concentrations and phytoplankton abundance. Our primary objective is to compare seasonal and diel variations in stratification and nutrient distribution within the reservoir. Key findings reveal a diel cycle of thermal stratification, primarily during dry season, driven by higher wind speeds. This is corroborated by a significant negative correlation between wind speed and the relative water column stability index. In contrast, during the rainy season, the reservoir experiences continuous thermal stratification due to inflowing water being warmer than the reservoir’s water temperature. Notably, a significant negative correlation between total phosphorus and chlorophyll-a, along with a two-fold increase of this nutrient throughout the day during the rainy season, underscores the influence of the phytoplankton community dynamics on the diel nutrient variation. Chemical stratification of dissolved oxygen occurred during dry and rainy seasons, indicating that even during the dry season, where there is no significant inflow, the internal nutrient loading can also significantly impact the water quality of a reservoir. This study advances the understanding of diel water quality dynamics in tropical semiarid reservoirs, shedding light on both climatic and anthropogenic influences on water resources.
Optimizing Growth and Antioxidant Function in Heat-Stressed Broilers with Vitamin C and Betaine Supplementation
Authors: Li Yan , Yuan Junjun , Sun Shiang , Ma Feiyang , Xiong Yongjie , He Shaojun
Published: December 2023

For broiler’s health, heat stress (HS) poses a significant challenge. This study investigates the potential of vitamin C (VC) and/or betaine (Bet) to enhance growth performance, regulate serum metabolic parameters, and bolster antioxidant function aiming to mitigate the impact of cyclic HS on broilers. Two hundred Ross 308 broilers at 28 days of age were randomly assigned to five groups. The control group, housed at 24 ± 1℃, was fed a basal diet. High-temperature treatment groups, housed at 32 ± 1℃, received a basal diet with 0 (HS group), 250mg/kg VC (HSVC group), 1000mg/kg Bet (HSBe group), and 250mg/kg VC + 1000mg/kg Bet (HSVCBe group). On day 42, assessments were made on growth performance, muscle quality, serum biochemical parameters, and antioxidant function. Results revealed that HS significantly lowered (P < 0.05) average daily feed intake (ADFI), the degree of redness (a*) in pectoral and leg muscles, and serum total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) level. It also reduced (P < 0.01) average daily gain (ADG), and serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level, while increasing (P < 0.05) shear force, serum direct bilirubin (D-BIL), uric acid (UA), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared with the control group. Dietary supplementation of VC and Bet, either alone or in combination, significantly decreased shear force and serum UA level, while increasing ADG and the level of T-AOC, and T-SOD in serum antioxidant compared with the HS group (P < 0.05), with the combination yielding the most pronounced effects. In conclusion, the addition of VC and/or Bet to the diet proves effective in enhancing the growth performance of HS-exposed broilers through the positive regulation of serum chemical metabolism parameters and the alleviation of oxidative damage.
The Influence of a Non-local thermoelasticity with Diffusion under Hydrostatic Pressure
Authors: Khader Shaaban , Marrouf Ayman , Esmail Samia , khedr Mona
Published: December 2023

This article is demonstrating the diffusion theory of thermoelasticity on a two-dimensional half-space problem. The surface is exposed to thermal shocks and hydrostatic loads. Chemical potential must be a known time function. The solution is obtained with the direct method using Laplace's techniques and Fourier's exponential transform. Local and non-local thermoelasticity were discussed and the influence of the non-local parameter on the generalized theory of thermoelastic diffusion was investigated. Chemical potential, concentration temperature, stress, and displacement distributions are computed numerically and represented by graphical.
In-plane drift characteristics of fully grouted reinforced masonry shear walls
Authors: Ghaseminia Seyed Meghdad , Zahra Tatheer , Thambiratnam David P. , Thamboo Julian
Published: December 2023

This paper outlines an approach to predict the drift capacities of fully grouted reinforced masonry (RM) shear walls under in-plane loading. The RM walls are provided with centrally placed single layer of reinforcement curtain, which raises a question on their drift and ductility characteristics over double layered reinforced concrete (RC) walls. To study the drift capacities of RM walls, an experimental database was developed comprising 152 shear walls tested under in-plane loading in this study. This database was then used to assess the critical parameters that influence the in-plane drift capacities of RM walls. It was found that the shear reinforcement ratio, shear stress demand, aspect and effective slenderness ratios are most sensitive to in-plane drift capacities of RM walls. Existing analytical and empirical models to predict the in-plane drift capacities of shear walls were initially considered to verify their applicability in predicting the drift capacities of RM walls. The analyses showed that existing analytical models under-predicted and the empirical models over-predicted the ultimate drift capacities of RM walls. Consequently, this study used the developed experimental database to propose a set of empirical models to predict the in-plane drift capacities of RM walls. The proposed models would facilitate the analysis of drift capacities of RM walls with different configurations and thereby enable the implementation of displacement-based performance design approach for such walling systems.
Probing Phonon Focusing, Thermomechanical Behavior, and Moiré Patterns in van der Waals Architectures Using Surface Acoustic Waves
Authors: Kalia Rajiv , Baradwaj Nitish , Aditya Anikeya , Mishra Ankit , Burns Kory , Lang Eric , Hachtel Jordan , Hattar Khalid , Aitkaliyeva Assel , Nakano Aiichiro , Vashishta Priya
Published: December 2023

Surface acoustic waves (SAWs) propagate along solid-air, solid-liquid and solid-solid interfaces. Their characteristics depend on the elastic properties of the solid. Combining transmission electron microscopy (TEM) experiments with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we probe atomic environments around intrinsic defects that generate SAWs in vertically stacked two-dimensional (2D) bilayers of MoS2. Our joint experimental-simulation study provides new insights into SAW-induced structural and dynamical changes and thermomechanical responses of MoS2 bilayers. Using MD simulations, we compute mechanical properties from the SAW velocity and thermal conductivity from thermal diffusion of SAWs. The results for Young’s modulus and thermal conductivity of an MoS2 monolayer are in good agreement with experiments. The presence of defects, such as nanopores which generate SAWs, reduces the thermal conductivity of 2D-MoS2 by an order of magnitude. We also observe dramatic changes in moiré patterns, phonon focusing, and cuspidal structures on 2D-MoS2 layers.
Romidepsin exhibits anti-esophageal squamous cell carcinoma activity through the DDIT4-mTORC1 pathway
Authors: Wu Lanxiang , Xia Weifeng , Zheng Xiaoli , Liu Wenyi , Huang Yutang , Wen Chunjie , Wu Qingchen , Zhou Honghao
Published: December 2023

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common human malignancies worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Current treatment options are limited, highlighting the need for development of novel effective agents. Here, a high-throughput drug screening (HTS) was performed using ESCC cell lines in both two- and three-dimensional culture systems to screen compounds that have anti-ESCC activity. Our screen identified romidepsin, a histone deactylase inhibitor, as a potential anti-ESCC agent. Romedepsin treatment decreased cell viability, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in ESCC cell lines, and these findings were confirmed in ESCC cell line-derived xenografted (CDX) mouse models. Mechanically, romidepsin induced transcriptional upregulation of DNA damage-inducible transcript 4 (DDIT4) gene by histone hyperacetylation at its promoter region, leading to the inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway. Furthermore, romidepsin exhibited better efficacy and safety compared to the conventional therapeutic drugs in ESCC patient-derived xenografted (PDX) mouse models. These data indicate that romidepsin may be a novel option for anti-ESCC therapy.
Evaluation of the efficiency of the newly developed needle in emergency room: A single-center observational study
Authors: Kishihara Yuki , Yasuda Hideto , Kashiura Masahiro , Oishi Takatoshi , Shinzato Yutaro , Moriya Takashi
Published: December 2023

Peripheral intravascular catheter (PIVC) insertion is frequently performed in the emergency department (ED) and many failures of initial PIVC insertion occur. To reduce the failures, new needles were developed and we investigated whether the use of the newly developed needle reduced the failure of initial PIVC insertion in the ED compared with the use of the existing needle. This single-center, prospective observational study was conducted in Japan between April 1, 2022, and February 2, 2023. We included consecutive patients who visited our hospital by ambulance as a secondary emergency on a weekday during the day shift (from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM). The primary outcome was the failure of initial PIVC insertion. We defined the difficulty of titrating, leakage, and hematoma within 30 s after insertion as failures and performed multivariate logistic regression and multiple regression analyses by adjusting for covariates. In total, 522 patients without missing data were analysed, and 81 (15.5%) patients showed failure of initial PIVC insertion. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed no significant association between the use of newly developed PIVCs and the failure of initial PIVC insertion (odds ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, [0.48–1.31]; p = 0.36).
Intrathecal nicardipine as treatment for severe cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: A retrospective clinical study
Authors: Smalley Zachary S , Winter Kenneth A , Clark Paul , Derrico Nicholas , Uschmann Hartmut , Washington Chad W
Published: December 2023

Object: Vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) are complications of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) and contributing to up to 23% of the disability and deaths from aSAH. The use of intrathecal nicardipine as a possible treatment modality for DCI has been explored with mixed results. We present a retrospective series comparing standard post-aSAH care to standard care plus intrathecal nicardipine therapy. The primary objective of this study was to assess for any difference in functional outcome in terms of modified Rankin score (mRS) between the standard therapy group and intrathecal nicardipine group at discharge and 1 month.
Methods: Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was obtained for a retrospective chart review of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) who were treated at the University of Mississippi Medical Center between January 2012 and June 2019. Inclusion criteria included sufficient available medical documentation, aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage with documentation of an intracranial aneurysm and age ≥ 18. Exclusion criteria included non-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, patients with insufficient medical records, and mycotic aneurysms. The decision to treat with intrathecal nicardipine was based on the individual practice of a single neuro-intensivist in collaboration with the neurosurgical staff.
Results: A total of 385 patients were included in the study with 31 patients receiving intrathecal nicardipine. Those within the nicardipine group presented with significantly worse Hunt and Hess grades and experienced significantly worse cerebral vasospasm, higher TCD velocities, higher rates of DCI, and higher rates of hydrocephalus. When controlling for placement of an external ventricular drain, the patients in the intrathecal nicardipine group experienced higher rates of ventriculitis (10% vs. 2%, p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in ICU stay or hospital stay, mRS at discharge, or at 1 month follow up between the two groups.
Conclusion: In our series, intrathecal nicardipine therapy did not significantly alter outcomes in terms of mRS at discharge or at 1 month. There was, however, a significant increase in ventriculitis among patients who received this therapy.
Increasing Production Efficiency and Improving the Management System in Cotton Breeding Industry of Uzbekistan
Authors: Inoyatov Sardor , Kurbanov Bakhtiyor , Mamatov Ilkhom , Obloberdiev Iqboljon
Published: December 2023

The article examines the influence of manganese on cotton growing time, yield increasing and fiber quality reflection. The soil was tested for defining concentration of manganese and other trace elements in the soil. The results of analysis provided information about how many manganese need to be involved for every hectare of experimental fields. The innovative method for monitoring and analyzing of the cotton growth was helped us to observe the influence of manganese in germination of cotton fruits. The quality of cotton fiber has high priority for deep textile operation. Hence, on following article you can read about case study of influence of manganese microelement in fiber quality. The research tested an influence of manganese in cotton phonologic stages, cotton yield increasing and fiber quality indicators improvement. The cotton fiber was tested in HVI and compared with conventional cotton fiber from the same field.
The Mediating roles of Beliefs about Stress and Satisfaction of Basic Psychological Needs in the Relationship Between Strength use and Burnout in Chinese Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Bai Chengzhi , Ma Jie , Bai Baoyu , Zhang Hongxia
Published: December 2023

Background
The prevalence of burnout among healthcare workers remains chronically high. Former studies have indicated that strength use is a promising approach to reduce burnout. However, relatively little is known about the psychological mechanisms underlying the ability of strength use to reduce burnout, especially among healthcare workers.
Aim
This study sought to examine the link between strength use and burnout in Chinese healthcare workers, and explore the mediating roles of beliefs about stress and basic psychological needs satisfaction in that relationship.
Methods
This study was implemented in two time periods, from September to October 2020 and from February to September 2022. A total of 812 healthcare workers completed a multi-section questionnaire.
Results
Strength use was negatively associated with burnout and negative stress beliefs, and positively associated with positive stress beliefs, control beliefs, and basic psychological needs satisfaction. Moreover, negative stress beliefs, control beliefs, and basic psychological needs satisfaction fully mediated the relationship between strength use and burnout. Furthermore, effect contrasts revealed that the mediating impact of fulfilling basic psychological needs was stronger than that of negative stress beliefs and control beliefs.
Conclusions
Our finding revealed that negative stress beliefs, control beliefs, and basic psychological needs satisfaction act as mediators in the association of strength use with burnout. Furthermore, basic psychological needs satisfaction act as a more important mediating role than negative stress beliefs and control beliefs in the strength use–burnout relationship.
Implications for Nursing Management:
Health authorities should focus on improving the level of strengths use of healthcare workers to reduce their burnout. Additionally, programs should be designed to reduce healthcare workers’ negative stress beliefs, improve their control beliefs, and satisfy their basic psychological needs and thereby reduce their burnout.
Enhanced Supercooling of Water with a 6 mT/50 Hz Oscillating Magnetic Field and Its Application in Fruit Preservation
Authors: Kong Fanchen , Li Peiru , Zhang Hainan , Tian Changqing , Leng Dongmei , Hou Chengli
Published: December 2023

This study aims to investigate the influence of oscillating magnetic fields on the deep supercooling of water and the supercooling storage of fruits. The results showed that by utilizing a 6 mT/50 Hz oscillating magnetic field, water (1 ml) was able to be maintained at -18°C for 24 hours, achieving deep supercooling. Combining magnetic field with oil-sealed water enhanced supercooling compared to oil sealing alone. By adding an oscillating magnetic field, fruits were maintained at a temperature of -5°C for 12 hours. The supercooled samples exhibited a texture and color that were close to those of fresh samples and also experienced a reduction in water loss of up to 30.25% in comparison to frozen samples that were not treated by magnetic field treatment. The proposed method achieved significant supercooling and improved food quality using an easily obtainable type of magnetic field.
Survey data show a global decline in intimate partner violence against women associated with rising living standards
Authors: Vartanova Irina , Strimling Pontus , Eriksson Kimmo
Published: December 2023

Background: Intimate partner violence against women is a global public health problem. The objective of this study is to examine whether this problem is declining and whether the decline is associated with improving living standards.
Methods: Data from the Demographic and Health Surveys in low- and middle-income countries serve as the basis for this analysis. We use all available data on intimate partner violence between the years 1999 and 2022, comprising responses from a total of 1,809,436 women in 69 countries and 509,494 men in 60 countries. We use linear regression on the year variable to estimate temporal trends in the prevalence and acceptance of intimate partner violence in each country. We similarly calculate temporal trends in living standards using the Human Development Index and examine whether they predict violence trends across countries.
Results: Both the prevalence and acceptance of intimate partner violence show decreasing trends in about 90 % of countries. This trend is consistent throughout the data and is not confined to a specific time period. Furthermore, countries with higher Human Development Index (HDI) values exhibit lower acceptance levels, and an increase in HDI values over time is associated with a decrease in acceptance.
Conclusion: The findings support the hypothesis that domestic environments worldwide are becoming progressively less violent and that rising living standards may be part of the explanation.
Characterization of African Swine Fever Virus outbreak in India and Comparative Analysis of Immune Genes in Infected and Survived Crossbreed vs. Indigenous Doom Pigs
Authors: Das Pranab Jyoti , Sonowal Joyshikh , Sengar Gyanendra Singh , Pegu Seema Rani , Deb Rajib , Kumar Satish , Banik Santanu , Rajkhowa Swaraj , Gupta Vivek Kumar
Published: December 2023

African Swine Fever (ASF) has affected all pig breeds in North-East India since 2020, except Doom pigs, a unique indigenous breed from Assam and the closest progenitor to Indian wild pigs, resulting in significant economic losses for pig farmers in the region. Based on the complete sequences of the B646L (p72) gene, it has been determined that the virus responsible for the outbreak is ASFV genotype II. The further characterization of three complete sequences of the B646L (p72) gene established 100% identical with other existing sequences of different parts of the world as well as confirmed that there is no co-circulation of different genotypes of ASFV in India except genotype II. Present studies also corroborate that MYD88, LDHB and IFIT1 were important genes of the immune system involved in the pathogenesis of ASFV. The differential expression patterns of these genes in ASFV-infected survived, and healthy Doom breed pigs, compared to healthy control pigs, were studied to distinguish the expression pattern at different stages. The hardiness and ability of the Doom pig to withstand common pig diseases, along with its genetic resemblance to wild pigs, make it an ideal candidate for studying tolerance to ASFV infection. So, the present study investigates the natural resistance to ASF in Doom pigs from an endemic area in North-East India to support the proposition that Doom pigs can co-exist with virulent ASFVs recently break in North-East India. The results of this study also provide important molecular insights into the regulation of the ASFV-tolerant gene.
GRAF1 Regulates Brown and Beige Adipose Differentiation and Function
Authors: Bai Xue , Zhu Qiang , Combs Matthew , Wabitsch Martin , Mack Christopher P. , Taylor Joan M.
Published: December 2023

Adipose tissue, which is crucial for the regulation of energy within the body, contains both white and brown adipocytes. White adipose tissue (WAT) primarily stores energy, while brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays a critical role in energy dissipation as heat, offering potential for therapies aimed at enhancing metabolic health. Regulation of the RhoA/ROCK pathway is crucial for appropriate specification, differentiation and maturation of both white and brown adipocytes. However, our knowledge of how this pathway is controlled within specific adipose depots remains unclear, and to date a RhoA regulator that selectively controls adipocyte browning has not been identified. Our study shows that expression of GRAF1, a RhoGAP highly expressed in metabolically active tissues, closely correlates with brown adipocyte differentiation in culture and in vivo. Mice with either global or adipocyte-specific GRAF1 deficiency exhibit impaired BAT maturation, reduced capacity for WAT browning, and compromised cold-induced thermogenesis. Moreover, defects in differentiation of mouse or human GRAF1-deficient brown preadipocytes can be rescued by treatment with a Rho kinase inhibitor. Collectively, these studies indicate that GRAF1 can selectively induce brown and beige adipocyte differentiation and suggest that manipulating GRAF1 activity may hold promise for the future treatment of diseases related to metabolic dysfunction.
Unravelling spontaneous Bloch-type skyrmion in centrosymmetric two-dimensional magnets
Authors: Zhang Yun , Pang Jingman , Niu Xiaohang , Zhao Hongjian , Zhang Meiguang , Qian Yu , Bellaiche Laurent
Published: December 2023

The realization of magnetic skyrmions in two-dimensional (2D) magnets holds great promise for both fundamental research and device applications. Despite recent progress, two-dimensional skyrmions hosts are still limited, due to the fact that most 2D magnets are centrosymmetric and thus lack Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI). We show here, using a general analysis based on symmetry, that Bloch-type skyrmions can, in fact, be stabilized in 2D centrosymmetric magnets, due to the interplay between in-plane component (dx) of second nearest-neighbor DMI and magnetic anisotropy. Its validity is demonstrated in Cr2Ge2Te6 monolayer, which is also verified by recent experiments. Our work gives a clear direction for experimental studies of 2D magnetic materials to stabilize skyrmions and should greatly enrich the research on magnetic skyrmions in 2D lattices.
Extensive surgical resections for rare pleural neoplasms: A single-center experience with a yolk sac tumor and synovial sarcoma.
Authors: Vandaele Tom , Slambrouck Jan Van , Schöffski Patrick , Dumez Herlinde , Weynand Birgit , Sciot Raf , Barbarossa Annalisa , Provoost An-Lies , de Voorde Kristof Van , Debaveye Yves , Bouneb Sofian , Nafteux Philippe , Ceulemans Laurens J.
Published: December 2023

Background: Pleural neoplasms are rare and can be subdivided into pleural metastasis and primary pleural neoplasms. Non-mesothelioma primary pleural neoplasms are a diverse group of extremely rare pathologies.
Case presentation: In this case series, we describe the presentation and successful management of two rare primary pleural neoplasms. A first case describes a primary pleural yolk sac tumor treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, extended pleurectomy decortication, and hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy. In a second case we describe the management of a primary pleural synovial sarcoma by neoadjuvant chemotherapy and extrapleural pneumonectomy. A complete resection was obtained in both cases and the post-operative course was uncomplicated. No signs of tumor recurrence were noted during follow-up in the first patient. In the second patient a local recurrence was diagnosed 6 months after surgery.
Conclusion: Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy followed by extensive thoracic surgery, including hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy, is a feasible treatment strategy for non-mesothelioma primary pleural neoplasms, but careful follow-up is required.
The Effect of Preoperative Oral Antibiotics in the Prevention of Surgical Site Infection after Colorectal Surgery: A Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Nakanishi Ryo , Ozawa Heita , Toyota Naoyuki , Mise Minori , Fujita Shin , Naito Takeshi
Published: December 2023

Objectives
Recent findings suggest that combining mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) and preoperative oral antibiotics (OAs) decreases the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) in colorectal surgery; however, this finding remains controversial. This study examined the efficacy of OAs and MBP in colorectal surgery using propensity score matching (PSM).
Methods
Between January 2015 and December 2020, 620 patients with colorectal tumors underwent MBP followed by colorectal surgery. OAs were initiated in our hospital in July 2017. PSM was performed to compare the effects of OAs and MBP (OA) versus MBP alone (non-OA) on the rate of superficial SSI.
Results
A total of 338 patients received OAs. Significant differences were observed in the American Society of Anesthesiologists performance status (ASA-PS) and the presence of tumor obstruction between the OA and non-OA groups. The OA and non-OA groups were matched using PSM based on the following factors: sex, age, body mass index, tumor location, presence of obstruction by the tumor, ASA-PS score, presence of smoking, presence of diabetes mellitus, and preoperative therapies, which resulted in the exclusion of significant differences. Univariate analysis showed that laparotomy, rectum, stomata, and non-OA use were associated with SSIs (P = 0.0446, 0.0432, 0.0219, and 0.0124, respectively). A multivariate analysis of these four variables identified non-OA use as an independent risk factor for SSIs (hazard ratio: 2.44, 95% confidence interval: 1.22–4.88, P = 0.0112).
Conclusions
This study revealed that OA plus MBP markedly reduced SSI rates. Therefore, OA with MBP should be adopted in colorectal surgery.
COVID-19 and membranous nephropathy: observational and Mendelian randomization analyses
Authors: Liu Wen , Su Zhihang , Yin Zheng , Wu Di , Cheng Yuan , Hu Haofei , Xue Rui , Tao Cai , Xu Hengchang , Zhang Xinzhou , Wan Qijun
Published: December 2023

Membranous nephropathy (MN) imposes a substantial burden of illness and death. However, a systematic assessment of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on MN incidence has not yet been conducted. This research is an observational cohort study conducted retrospectively. The kidney biopsy results of two medical institutions, including our hospital, were reviewed for the period between January 2016 and May 2023. Relevant statistical analysis of different glomerular diseases was performed based on the corresponding pathological diagnoses. The aim was to compare the incidence changes of different glomerular diseases before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our focus was on investigating the changes in the incidence rate of MN and attempting to uncover the causal effects between varying degrees of COVID-19 and MN utilizing bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) using GWAS data from European and Asian ancestry. We found that the incidence of MN decreased by 3.6% during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the period before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic(P = 0.026). However, after Bonferroni correction, the change in incidence did not reach a significant p-value(P > 0.05/2), and the overall incidence of glomerular diseases did not show a significant change (P = 0.364). Additionally, the Mendelian randomization analysis indicated no significant causality between COVID-19 (critical illness, susceptibility, severe infection, hospitalization, and severity) and MN (no significance, PBonferroni>0.05).The results of this preliminary study suggest that the incidence rate of MN remained relatively stable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, our genetic perspective Mendelian randomization analysis has furnished additional evidence contradicting any causal relationship between varying degrees of COVID-19 infection and MN.
Stability-Indicating TLC-Densitometric and HPLC Methods for Simultaneous Determination of Teneligliptin and Pioglitazone in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms with Eco-Friendly Assessment
Authors: Akabari Ashok H , Gajiwala Harsh , Patel Sagarkumar K , Surati Jasmina , Solanki Divya , Shah Ketan V , Patel Tejas J , Patel Sagar P
Published: December 2023

The combination of multiple drugs in pharmaceutical formulations has greatly improved the management of complex medical conditions, particularly benefiting patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Two powerful antidiabetic agents, teneligliptin hydrobromide hydrate (TEN) and pioglitazone hydrochloride (PIO), play key roles in regulating blood glucose levels. In this study, we introduce innovative methods for the simultaneous quantification of TEN and PIO in pharmaceutical formulations, ensuring accuracy and stability assessment. Our TLC-densitometric approach employs a mobile phase consisting of Methanol, Toluene, Ethyl Acetate, and Triethylamine (1:7:2:0.1, v/v/v/v) on TLC silica gel plates, followed by densitometric scanning at 268 nm. Meanwhile, the RP-HPLC method utilizes an isocratic elution with acetonitrile and acetate buffer (pH 2.3, 60:40 v/v) on a C18 column, delivering diode-array detection at 235 nm. Both methods offer exceptional accuracy and reliability, serving as valuable tools for pharmaceutical quality control. Furthermore, our research incorporates an environmental impact assessment to align with global sustainability goals. We consider factors such as solvent consumption, waste generation, and energy usage, using assessment tools like the eco-scale assessment, AGREE, Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI), and the national environmental method index (NEMI) to gauge the environmental impact of our methods. By adopting these techniques, pharmaceutical companies can enhance their drug quality control processes and fulfill their environmental responsibilities. Comprehensive statistical comparisons, including t-tests and F-tests, validate the outcomes of the TLC-densitometric and RP-HPLC methods, ensuring their effectiveness in drug formulation analysis.
Obesity among non-pregnant women in the 36 States and federal capital territory of Nigeria; sub-national variation of a national epidemic
Authors: Adeomi Adeleye Abiodun , Akanji Baderinwa Opeyemi , Okeyode Mercy Adeola
Published: December 2023

Background: Obesity has been viewed as a pandemic, with women of reproductive age disproportionately affected compared to men. While studies have reported National prevalence rates in Nigeria, data on the sub-national variation is scarce. This is important because majority of policies/interventions in Nigeria, are developed/implemented at the sub-national level. This study therefore aimed to investigate the sub-national distribution and variation of obesity among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Nigeria.
Methodology: This was a community-based cross-sectional study, which used secondary data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2018. A total of 13,180 non-pregnant women of reproductive age (15 – 49 years) were selected from the 36 states and federal capital territory using a two-stage cluster sampling technique. Obesity was determined using the World Health Organization reference values for adolescents (less than 20 years) and others that were older. Sub-national variation was determined with binary logistic regression analysis using unadjusted and adjusted rates, and adjustment was made for individual, household and community level factors.
Results: The mean age of respondents was 29.5 ± 9.7 years and there was mostly an even distribution of respondents across the States. The National prevalence of obesity among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in this study was 28.5%. Anambra (54.6%) and Sokoto (6.9%) States had the highest and lowest prevalence rates respectively, with a range of 47.7%. The burden of obesity was higher among the southern states, compared to the northern states generally. After adjusting for all the commonly reported risk factors, about two-thirds of the states (24) still had a statistically significant variation in the prevalence of obesity, such that Akwa Ibom (OR: 4.5; p<0.001; 95% CI: 2.2, 9.0) and Anambra States (OR: 4.4; p<0.001; 95% CI: 2.2, 8,7) had nearly 5 times higher odds of obesity compared to the reference State (Sokoto).
Conclusion: Sub-national variations exist in the prevalence of obesity among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Nigeria, even after adjusting for commonly reported predictors. There is therefore a need to identify state-level determinants of obesity, with a view to designing state-specific interventions to curb obesity among women of reproductive age in Nigeria.
Available nutrients affect fungal compositions and functions under land use conversions in alkaline grassland in northeastern China
Authors: Hu Juan , Huang Yingxin , Zhou Daowei
Published: December 2023

Purpose: Little is known about the link between the fungal community and soil nutrient availability when land use is converted from abandoned farmland to grassland in the alkaline grasslands of northeastern China.
Methods: Therefore, in this study, the diversity, composition, and function of fungi, as well as basic soil properties and inorganic phosphorus fractions, were investigated under land-use conversion from maize cropland to alfalfa (AG), Lyemus chinensis (LG), and restored grasslands (RG).
Results: The results showed that the relationships between Olsen-P and the Pi fractions of Ca8-P, Fe-P, Ca2-P, and Ca10-P were close. Significantly elevated available phosphorus (Olsen-P) and available nitrogen (AN) values were found in the 0-10 cm and 10-20 cm soil layers, respectively, in the AG treatment, relative to LG and RG treatments (P < 0.05). The O-P content at 0-10 cm and Al-P content at 10-20 cm in the RG treatment were the highest. The RG treatment increased the Shannon index of fungi and the abundances of Mortierellomycota, Glomeromycota, and Mortierella, while decreasing the abundance of Cladosporium. The RG treatment greatly reduced plant pathogens and enhanced mycorrhizal and ectomycorrhizal growth. Olsen-P and AN were both positively correlated with plant pathogen abundance (P < 0.01). Mycorrhizal fungi had negative effects on Ca8-P, Fe-P, Olsen-P, and AN (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: Land-use conversion from maize cropland to restored grassland could reduce the abundance of some plant pathogens and enhance useful fungi by decreasing the availability of P and N.
Causal association of cathepsins and endometriosis: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Aru Na , Yang Congyu , Chen Yuntian , Liu Jiaming
Published: December 2023

Objective
Endometriosis is a prevalent reproductive disorder that affects a significant number of women globally. Cathepsins, which are lysosomal cysteine proteases, contribute to several physiological and pathological processes, including the attachment and invasion of endometrial tissue. Nevertheless, the causal relationship between cathepsins and endometriosis remains undetermined. The aim of this study was to explore the potential relationship between cathepsins and endometriosis using genetic polymorphisms.
Methods
We employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal association between nine cathepsins and endometriosis.
Results
The univariable MR analysis results indicate that Cathepsin H increases the risk of overall endometriosis (IVW: OR [95%]: 1.037 [1.007 to 1.067], p = 0.013), endometriosis of ovary (IVW: OR [95%]: 1.022 [1.001 to 1.042], p = 0.046), endometriosis of pelvic peritoneum OR [95%]: 1.046 [1.002 to 1.089], p = 0.047), and deep endometriosis (IVW: OR [95%]: 1.050 [1.002 to 1.099], p = 0.048). The multivariable MR analysis retained stable after adjusting for other types of cathepsins. And reverse MR analyses suggest that overall endometriosis may lead to increased Cathepsin H levels (IVW: OR [95%]: 1.017 [1.003, 1.073], p = 0.041). The results of the sensitivity analyses were consistent with the main findings.
Conclusion
Our MR analysis yields robust evidence supporting a causal relationship between Cathepsin H and the susceptibility to endometriosis, potentially inspiring directions in endometriosis diagnosis and treatment.