bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
5-AzaC enhances the Aluminum tolerance of grapes by reducing the DNA methylation level
Authors: Zhang Yongfu , Qiao Zuqin , Li Xiaoqin , Ren Zhen , Xu Shiqin , Liu Zhao , Wang Kai
Published: June 2023

Purpose
5-Azacitidine (5-AzaC) is a base analog with a reduced methylation level of the genome generated by removing the methyl group from methylated cytosine in the DNA. However, the mechanism of exogenous 5-azaC mediating Al accumulation in grapes at the methylation level remains unclear.
Methods
Using 5-azaC treatment solution to spray the ‘crystal’ grape seedlings under Al stress, and then, observing the agronomic traits of grape, detecting the activity of SOD, POD and MDA, the content of H2O2 and Al, and the rate of oxygen free radical production. Meanwhile, the whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) was used to generate high-coverage cytosine methylation profiles of the grape genome.
Results
After treatment with 5-azaC of the ‘crystal’ grape seedlings under Al stress, the methylation rates of all chromosomes decreased, the DNA methylation level decreased, and the DNA methylation level of promoter increased at CG, CHG, and CHH sites, so that transcription factors could trigger the promoter and induce upregulation of hypo-differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in the genome to counteract Al stress. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis of DMRs demonstrated that 5-azaC treatment could effectively reduce the Al toxicity in grape plants under Al stress by upregulating related genes and effectively reducing the Al stress-induced DNA methylation level of the grape genome.
Conclusion
5-azaC treatment leads to reduced DNA methylation level of the grape genome, and elucidation of the methylation features helped to clarify the molecular mechanism behind the response of grapes to Al stress.
Comparison of the Concentration of Amphotericin B in Periocular Fat Tissue after Retrobulbar and Intravenous Injection
Authors: Baghaei Amir , Shahriari Mansoor , Sayyadi Shahram , Amiri-Andebili Marziyeh , Esmaily Hadi
Published: June 2023

Mucormycosis is one of the invasive fungal infections, particularly affecting individuals with compromised immune systems. The most common form of Mucormycosis is rhino-orbital-cerebral Mucormycosis. Liposomal amphotericin is a recommended drug for the treatment of this disease according to guidelines and scientific authorities. Recently, some doctors have considered retrobulbar injection of liposomal amphotericin as an alternative to the conventional treatment. The aim of this study is to investigate the concentration of amphotericin B in the fat tissue around the eyes after intravenous, retrobulbar, and combined intravenous with retrobulbar injection.
The study used 45 rats divided into 15 groups of 3. The rats were subjected to different injection methods: intravenous, retrobulbar, and combined intravenous with retrobulbar. Three groups received the same dose of liposomal amphotericin B. At 4, 6, and 24 hours after each injection, the rats were euthanized, and the fatty tissue around their eyes was removed. The concentration of amphotericin B in the tissue was determined using a UV-spectrophotometer.
The concentrations observed at 4, 6, and 24 hours after injection were as follows:
Intravenous injection of 10 mg/kg: 0.0001, 0.1154, and 0.0693 μg/ml.
Intravenous injection of 15 mg/kg: 0.0339, 0.3534, and 0.4209 μg/ml.
Retrobulbar injection: 8.8965, 9.8124, and 9.4156 μg/ml.
Intravenous injection of 10 mg/kg + retrobulbar 0.25 mg/kg: 8.8401, 7.8869, and 8.6409 μg/ml.
Intravenous injection of 15 mg/kg + retrobulbar 0.25 mg/kg: 8.1940, 8.5277, and 9.0889 μg/ml.
Based on the results obtained from this study, retrobulbar injection of liposomal amphotericin B achieved a suitable concentration of the drug in the tissue around the eye. Therefore, in the treatment of rhino-orbital-cerebral Mucormycosis, there may be no need for intravenous injection alone or in combination with retrobulbar injection.
Histopathology Reveals Environmental Stress in Dusky Flounder Syacium papillosum of the Yucatan Peninsula Continental Shelf
Authors: Couoh-Puga E. Danilú , Chávez-Sánchez María Cristina , Vidal-Martínez Víctor M. , Gold-Bouchot Gerardo , Centeno-Chalé O. Arturo , Aguirre-Macedo M. Leopoldina
Published: June 2023

The histological changes in the liver, kidney, spleen, and gills of S. papillosum from the continental shelf of the Yucatan Peninsula, Gulf of Mexico, and their statistical associations with environmental conditions and pollutants were assessed in 2010, 2011, and 2012. We evaluated the extension and severity of the lesions through a degree of tissue change (DTC) and, with the sum of the number of lesion types within each of their DTC stages, we determined the histological alteration index (HAI). The liver and kidney were the most affected organs, with HAI values > 100. Fish with the most severe damage were observed on the Campeche Bank and the Caribbean Sea, in contrast with those collected from the northern Yucatan continental shelf. The presence of foci cellular alteration and abundant melanomacrophage centers indicated that these flatfishes were chronically exposed to environmental stress factors. Redundancy analyses showed strong associations between HAI values and hydrocarbon and heavy metal concentrations in muscle. The integrated evaluation indicated that flatfish tissues respond actively to exposure to xenobiotics in the environment.
Chemical Stability and Additive Leach Out in Polyethersulfone Membranes Blended with Dragon Blood Resin: An Investigative Study
Authors: Mulyati Sri , Ambarita Aulia Chintia , Arahman Nasrul , Bilad Muhammad Roil , Gül Bahar Yavuztürk , Korkut Sevde , Koyuncu İsmail
Published: June 2023

Dragon blood resin (DBR) is an effective bio-based additive for polymeric membrane fabrication. Despite the improved permeability and antifouling properties of the resulting membrane provided by DBR, its weak chemical bond makes it susceptibleto leaching during both fabrication and operation rendering the membrane properties and performances. This study investigates the chemical stability and leaching behavior of polyethersulfone (PES) membranes modified with DBR in an alkaline solution. The study involves immersing two types of PES based membranes, one loaded with 3% DBR (M-3) during the fabrication and one without (M-0), in a 0.01 N NaOH solution for five days. The results show that M-0 had good resistance to high alkaline solution, while M-3 was less stable. The pure water permeability of M-3 increased significantly with immersion time, as well as its surface hydrophilicity. The leaching of DBR from PES membrane matric can be ascribed by its alkali lysis polarity and the breaking of the DBR bonds from reaction of hydroxide ions with the ester bonds and glycosidic linkages in the flavonoids and anthocyanins, causing them to break apart into smaller molecules. The leaching of DBR also left pores that enhanced the membrane pore size. Overall, these findings provide useful information for the optimal design of a bio-based PES membrane.
A one-dimensional mixed model genome scan approach for detecting QTL-by-genetic-background interactions in diallel and nested association mapping designs
Authors: Li Wenhao , Boer Martin P. , Joosen Ronny V.L. , Zheng Chaozhi , Eeuwijk Fred van
Published: June 2023

QTLs in multi-parent population (MPP) designs can be modelled as having parent-specific or family-specific allelic effects. QTLs with family-specific allelic effects point to epistatic interactions. We present a one-dimensional genome scan approach by mixed models using design matrices based on IBD probabilities to identify parent-specific and family-specific QTLs. We fit both parent- and family-specific QTLs along a genomic grid of evaluation points and use an information criterion to decide on the nature of significant QTLs. This combined QTL detection procedure for parent- and family-specific jointly is more powerful than an existing approach testing for parent-specific QTLs only. We demonstrate the properties and application of our approach on simulated and real data.
Infected Calcium Oxalate Stone Leading to Pyogenic Spondylodiscitis and Bilateral Lower Limb Weakness: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Cheng-Yang , Tseng Chi-Shin , Lee Yuan-Ju
Published: June 2023

Background It is rare for calcium oxalate renal stone, presented mainly in clean and sterile urine, to result in urinary tract infection. Nevertheless, the stone-related infection could further develop thoracic spondylodiscitis and epidural abscesses, causing neurological deficits, including muscle weakness and paresthesia. Although few cases of urinary tract infection and spondylodiscitis were reported, there are no reports about calcium oxalate partial staghorn stone and spondylodiscitis in the literature.Case presentation: A 62-year-old male suffered from gross hematuria, intermittent fever, and left flank pain. He came to the urology outpatient department, where acute pyelonephritis was diagnosed, and a left partial staghorn renal stone was seen on CT. Oral antibiotics were prescribed with improvement, and surgical intervention was suggested. Two weeks after antibiotics treatment, he developed acute onset bilateral lower limb weakness and numbness under the nipple level. He was brought to the emergency department, where leukocytosis and pyuria were shown, and the spine MRI revealed T2-T3 spondylodiscitis with epidural abscess and spinal cord compression. He underwent T2-T3 laminoplasty/pediculectomy/facetectomy and discectomy, with improvement in muscle power and hypesthesia. The culture of the surgical lesion yielded Citrobacter koseri, the same as the urine culture obtained at his first visit. Left-side percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) was performed one month after cefmetazole administration, with successful stone removal and resolution of pyuria. Stone analyses reported the composition of calcium oxalate. Follow-up MRI showed marked improvement with resolution of spinal stenosis and epidural abscess. The patient was discharged, and follow-up urine analyses showed negative pyuria.Conclusions Urinary tract infection resulting from partial staghorn stone, with additional hematogenous spread to CNS causing spondylodiscitis, is scarcely discussed. The case we illustrated was that a calcium oxalate stone, which belongs to Jensen’s classification type 1, should be present in clean and sterile urine. However, a urinary tract infection could be seen in urine stasis or urinary tract obstruction. Citrobacter koseri-related UTI and spondylodiscitis have been described, with few case reports. With accurate diagnosis and essential surgical interventions, the patient had immediate neurological improvement and reached disease-free status.
Inequality in Urban Amenities
Authors: Michelangeli Alessandra , Östh John , Toger Marina , Turk Umut
Published: June 2023

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of urban inequality in the Stockholm Metropolitan Area analyzing the spatial distribution of amenities and their accessibility. Inequality in urban amenities is measured by a multidimensional index that can be decomposed into the sum of inequality indices computed on the marginal distributions of amenities across locations plus a residual term accounting for their joint distribution. Our research leverages a unique dataset that combines income data for approximately 200,000 geocoded individuals residing in the metropolitan area with information from the OpenStreetMap platform, enabling us to examine the distribution of both natural and urban design-related amenities. Furthermore, we integrate data from online platforms to analyze the housing market, merging it with geocoded information. Our findings reveal moderate levels of inequality in amenities within the Stockholm Metropolitan Area, with social segregation emerging as the primary driver of this inequality.
JEL codes: D63; O18; R12; R23
PTC Remodeling in Pre50S Intermediates: Insights into the Role of DEAD-box RNA Helicase DbpA
Authors: Yu Ting , Jiang Junyi , Yu Qiangxi , Li Xin , Zeng Fuxing
Published: June 2023

Ribosome biogenesis is a complex and fundamental multi-step process in vivo, requiring numerous assembly factors to facilitate and regulate the subunit assembly. The Escherichia coli DEAD-box RNA helicase, DbpA, is known to promote the assembly of the peptidyl transferase center (PTC) during 50S subunit maturation, specifically through the binding of the H92 hairpin in 23S rRNA. In this study, we employed cryoelectron microscope to characterize a series of pre50S snapshots isolated from an E.coli strain overexpressing a DbpA(R331A) mutant in the background of depleting dbpA gene. Our structural analysis defined a collection of late-stage particles along a progressive assembly pathway, revealing intermediates that were immature in the PTC, with domain V undergoing large conformational changes and progressive folding. In the pre50S intermediates, we observed mismatched base-pairings in H73-H74, which define the possible unwinding substrate of DbpA. Furthermore, the structures identified RsfS and YjgA as participating in 50S maturation with DbpA, and label-free quantitive mass spectrum revealed the involvement of multiple assembly factors and rRNA modification enzymes in these intermediates. In summary, our study provides mechanistic insights into how the DbpA, in concert with other assembly factors, facilitates the maturation of the 50S subunit in prokaryotes.
Residue monitoring and dietary risk evaluation of fungicide propiconazole in leafy vegetables under greenhouse conditions
Authors: Abdulkareem Lawal , Kwak Se-Yeon , Lee Sang-Hyeob , Choi Jae-Won , Oh Ji-Eun , Sarker Aniruddha , Kyung Kee Sung , Kim Tae Hwa , Kim Jang-Eok
Published: June 2023

Residue monitoring of propiconazole (PCZ) in three leafy vegetables (cabbage, shallot, and spinach) was conducted under multitrial greenhouse conditions. The key objective of this study was to understand the fate of the applied fungicide in these vegetables. In addition, the associated health risk of PCZ in leafy vegetables was assessed through dietary risk assessment. Commercial grade propiconazole (22% suspension concentrate) was administered thrice based on the OECD fungicide application interval guideline. The plant samples were extracted using a slightly modified QuEChERS technique and analyzed using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The average propiconazole recovery was between 84.5 % and 117.6 %, with a coefficient of variance of <5%. The dissipation of PCZ residue in cabbage, shallot, and spinach after 14 days was 96%, 90%, and 99% respectively, with half-lives of <5 days. Meanwhile, dietary risk assessments using the risk quotient (RQ) of PCZ residues in the studied vegetables were significantly <100 (RQ < 100). Thus, the population groups considered in this study were not at a substantial risk from consuming leafy vegetables sprayed with propiconazole in accordance with critical good agricultural practices.
Epidemiological characteristics of 13,313 emergency room patients with trauma from 2013 to 2021: a single-centre retrospective study
Authors: Lin Qi , Dong Fanghui , Shao Xiaoping , Yang Yang , Hu Sanlian
Published: June 2023

Background
This study aimed to analyse the epidemiological characteristics of patients with trauma in the emergency room and provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of trauma.
Methods
Data on patients with trauma admitted to the emergency room between January 2013 and December 2021, including sex, age, visit time, consciousness, blood pressure, heart rate, detention, patient outcome, and prognosis, were retrospectively analysed.
Results
A total of 13,313 patients were admitted to the emergency room, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.51:1. Most patients were young and middle-aged, with 8518 patients, accounting for 63.98%. The monthly peak number of patients admitted to the emergency room occurred in July, September, and October, and the peak time was 11:00–21:00. The detention time of patients with trauma in the emergency room showed an extended trend, with 72.2% of patients staying for at least 3 hours in the emergency room. As age increased, the proportion of patients staying in emergency rooms ≥ 3 hours increased gradually. A total of 345 patients (2.6%) died in the emergency room, 4035 patients (30.3%) received surgical treatment, 5082 patients (38.2%) were admitted to a specialised ward for conservative treatment, 2272 patients (17.1) were kept in the emergency room, and 1579 patients (11.9%) were discharged after emergency treatment. Nonconsciousness on admission, systolic blood pressure < 110 mmHg, abnormal diastolic blood pressure, and abnormal heart rate were risk factors for death in patients with trauma in the emergency room.
Conclusion
The emergency department should reasonably allocate medical resources according to the main population of patients with trauma, peak hours, and peak seasons, and standardise emergency procedures. Emergency medical staff should attach importance to the assessment of patients' consciousness and vital signs and provide active treatment.
Monitoring vegetation dynamics using multi-temporal NDVI and EVI images for different agro climatic zones of Tamil Nadu
Authors: V Priya M , R Kalpana , S Pazhanivelan , R Kumaraperumal , P Ragunath K , G Vanitha , Nihar Ashmitha
Published: June 2023

Vegetation indices serves as an essential tool in monitoring variations in vegetation. The vegetation indices used often viz., normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and enhanced vegetation index (EVI) were computed from MODIS vegetation index products. These two products characterize the global range of vegetation states and processes more effectively. This study is investigated to monitor the seasonal dynamics of vegetation by using time series NDVI and EVI indices, throughout the various agro climatic zones present in the Tamil Nadu from 2011 to 2021. Utilising the MOD13Q1 data product to procure the vegetation indices viz., NDVI and EVI for the years 2011 to 2021. The data sources were processed and extracted the NDVI and EVI values using ArcGIS software. There was a significant difference in vegetation intensity and status of vegetation over time, with NDVI having a larger value than EVI, indicating that biomass intensity varies over time in Tamil Nadu. Among the deciduous forest, crop land and scrub/ degraded forest, the deciduous forest showed highest mean values for NDVI and EVI. The study showed that vegetation indices extracted from MODIS offered the valuable information on vegetation status and condition at a short temporal time period.
Using predictive models unravel the potential of titanium oxide loaded activated carbon for removal of leachate ammoniacal nitrogen
Authors: Singh Kulbir , Lohchab Rajesh Kumar , Beniwal Vikas , Rout Chadetrik
Published: June 2023

The TiO2 nanocomposite efficiency was determined under optimized conditions with activated carbon to remove ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N) from the leachate sample. In this work, the facile impregnation and pyrolysis synthesis method was employed to prepare the nanocomposite, and their formation was confirmed using the XRD and Raman studies. In contrast, Raman phonon mode intensity ratio ID/IG increases from 2.094 to 2.311, indicating the increase of electronic conductivity and defects with the loading of TiO2 nanoparticles. The optimal conditions for achieving maximum NH3-N removal of 75.8% were found to be a pH of 7, a dose of 1.75 mg/L, and a temperature of 30oC, with a corresponding time of 160 minutes. All adsorption isotherm records were properly fitted, and linear plots were utilized to analyze NH3-N removal through adsorption kinetic models. Additionally, an effective central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to investigate the efficient removal of NH3-N.
Non-linear dilution adjustment of exemplary urine arsenic Part II: Sex- and Age-specific Differences
Authors: Carmine Thomas Clemens
Published: June 2023

Background In the first part of this study, a variable power-functional creatinine correction (V-PFCRC), normalizing results to 1 g/L creatinine (uCR), was established for total weight spot-urinary arsenic (TWuAs) as an adequate method of urinary dilution. In this second part, the impact of age and sex on TWuAs, V-PFCRC functions, and fluid regulation was investigated in the identical dataset of the first part based on a comprehensive literature review.
Methods All samples with age indication, uAsUC ≤ 500 mg/L, and uCR < 4.5 g/L (n=5585, females n= 2967, males n = 2618) were classified into seven age groups, for which sex-aggregate and disaggregate means ± SEs, medians, and ICRs were calculated for uCR and TWuAs in uncorrected (uAsUC), classical CR corrected (CCRC, uAsC), and V-PFCRC (uAsN) results mode. In addition, Pearson correlation analyses were performed for uCR and TWuAs with age. In addition, sex-aggregated and disaggregated V-PFCRC functions were compared between three numerically similar age groups. Finally, the efficacy of creatinine correction error (CRCE) compensation was assessed by simple power-functional regression analysis (PFRA) in both sexes and seven age bands.
Findings The clear male dominance of uAsUC (p < 0.001) in aggregate age data and all five adult subgroups separately was inverted by CCRC (uAsC, p = 0.011) and neutralized by V-PFCRC (uAsN, p = 0.19). Children and adolescents did not exhibit significant sex variations in TWuAs or uCR. A continuous rise in TWuAs with age from adolescence to the beginning of the seventh decade of life was observed in uAsUC, uAsC, and uAsN (0.28 µg/1 g uCR/year). Conversely, TWuAs decreased from childhood to adolescence and in the highest age group. Pearson analysis for all patients between 14 - 72 years and uAsUC ≤ 500 mg/L revealed significant weak positive correlations (p < 0.001) between TWuAs and age. The log curves between the coefficient a (= uAsN) and exponent b ran higher in younger men and both sexes among seniors, in broad analogy with reportedly higher baseline renal vasopressor activities of angiotensin II (ATII) and arginine vasopressin (AVP, V1) in these subgroups. The efficacy of V-PFCRC was established based on minimized residual biases of uCR on uAsN in both sexes and all seven age bands (R2 0.0029 - 7.0E-09).
Interpretation Sex differences in uAsUC and uAsC are primarily attributable to distinct urinary dilution and thus are compensated by V-PFCRC. In contrast, age-dependent increases in TWuAs, evident in all results modes, are genuine and should be further accounted for in exposure studies and normal range determinations. While sex and age affect V-PFCRC formulas analog to baseline vasopressor activities of ATII/AVP, they only negligibly affect the correction validity. Adequate perception of power-functional relations between uCR and uAsUC alone, even neglecting these minor sex- and age-specific differences in V-PFCRC correction formulas, results in substantial improvement of dilution adjustment.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Medical Ethics and Associated Factors Among Surgery Residents in Addis Ababa University: a Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Mihret Abebe , Nega Berhanu , Addissie Adamu
Published: June 2023

Introduction
Medical ethics is concerned with principles of moral issues and their application in various medical practice. While there is a growing public concern about the conducts of physicians as “poor adherence to ethical principles” in general, there is no published study done about the knowledge, attitude and practice of surgery trainees at Addis Ababa University. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of surgery residents with some associated factors regarding to medical ethics.
Methodology
A sample of the residents in surgery department were the study participants. Data was collected by a self-administered questionnaire distributed using Google Forms on the internet. It was analyzed using SPSS 2020.
Results
A total of 133 residents were included with male to female ratio of 5.3:1 and 66.2% between the ages 24 to 29 years. About 78.2% of the residents are not satisfied with their work. Most took formal medical ethics course (83.5%), took any form of training (75.2%), and read Hippocratic Oath (86.5%). However, few of them read Nuremberg code (17.3%), Declaration of Geneva (18%), and medical ethics booklet in Ethiopia (29.3%). The percentage of respondents who gave correct answers to the questions of autonomy, justice and non-maleficence was 94%, 75.9% and 85% respectively. The question about beneficence was correctly answered by 53.4%. Using 25% level of significance, knowledge, attitude and practice levels analysis shows only 23(17.3%) are knowledgeable, 47(35.3%) have positive attitudes and 45(33.8%) have good practices of code of ethics. Multivariate analyses shows significant associations between reading general ethics books and knowledge level, between attitude level and knowledge level, level of satisfaction as well as between practice level and work experience, taking formal medical ethics course and level of satisfaction.
Conclusion
The overall assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice is unsatisfactory. Knowledge level, level of satisfaction, work experience and taking formal medical ethics course are factors significantly associated with positive attitude and practice level in a positive way.
Anesthesia management of interventional cardiac catheterization for pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (PAIVS) and critical pulmonary stenosis (CPS): a retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhang Ning , Wang Kui-liang , Ren Yue-yi
Published: June 2023

Background Pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (PA/IVS) and critical pulmonary stenosis (CPS) usually have to undergo treatment in the neonatal period, as their pulmonary blood flow (PBF) depends on the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Recent studies have shown that catheter-based cardiac interventions may achieve similar or superior outcomes for neonates with PA/IVS and CPS compared to traditional surgical intervention. However, there is limited literature on anesthesia techniques, challenges, and risks associated with cardiac catheterization in this population.
Methods This article retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of PA/IVS and CPS neonates who were treated with interventional cardiac catheterization in our hospital from January 2015 to October 2022. A special clinical protocol for anesthetic management of these patients was utilized throughout the study period. Clinical outcomes considered were hemodynamic or SpO2 instability, vasoactive requirements, prolonged intubation (>24 h postoperatively) and cardiovascular adverse events.
Results A total of 63 patients met the inclusion criteria. Central venous catheter and invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring were provided for 26 neonates during the perioperative period. All patients survived the intervention. Among the patients with CPS, 40 successfully received percutaneous balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty (PBPV), while three patients received ductal stenting due to moderate right ventricular dysplasia at the same time. For patients with PA/IVS, 17 of the 23 patients successfully underwent percutaneous pulmonary valve perforation (PPVP) and PBPV. Of these, five patients underwent ductal stenting due to unstable PBF. Three patients only underwent ductal stenting. In addition, three patients received hybrid therapy. Compared with CPS, the procedural time and anesthesia time of PA/IVS were significantly prolonged, as were the numbers of patients using prostaglandin E1 and vasoactive drugs in the perioperative period, and postoperative mechanical ventilation time >24 h was also significantly increased.
Conclusions There are various clinical techniques and risk challenges in the interventional cardiac catheterization of neonatal PA/IVS and CPS. However, by mastering the physiological and pathophysiological characteristics of the disease, adequately preparing for the perioperative period, predicting the procedure process and potential complications, anesthesia and surgical risks can be effectively managed. Compared with CPS neonates, PA/IVS neonates have a higher perioperative risk and incidence of cardiovascular adverse events.
A high affinity switch for cAMP in the HCN pacemaker channels
Authors: Porro Alessandro , Saponaro Andrea , Castelli Roberta , Introini Bianca , Alkobot Anahita Hafez , Ranjbari Golnaz , Enke Uta , Kusch Jana , Benndorf Klaus , DiFrancesco Dario , Thiel Gerhard , Moroni Anna
Published: June 2023

Binding of cAMP to Hyperpolarization activated cyclic nucleotide gated (HCN) channels facilitates pore opening and underlies beta adrenergic stimulation of heart rate. It is unclear why the isolated cyclic nucleotide binding domain (CNBD) displays in vitro ten to hundred times less affinity for cAMP than the full-length channel in patch experiments (micromolar vs nanomolar). Here we resolve the incongruity by showing that HCN channels are endowed with an affinity switch for cAMP, so far overlooked. Alfa helices D and E (αDE), downstream of the CNBD, form a helix-turn-helix motif that binds to and stabilizes the CNBD in a high affinity state. These helices were simply not included in previous experiments conducted with the isolated CNBD fragment of HCN2 and their addition increases the KD by about 40-fold in this fragment, while their deletion in patch clamp experiments, reduces the EC50 of HCN4 current by the same extent. The results further highlight that αDE helices interact with the same element of the CNBD, the alfa C helix (αC) that is the target of another controller of HCN cAMP affinity, the beta subunit TRIP8b. Our results uncover a mechanism whereby changes in binding affinity, rather than changes in cAMP concentration, can modulate HCN channels, adding another layer to the complex regulation of their activity.
Effect of voltage and amperage alterations in CBCT on metal artifact generation caused by exomass
Authors: Moshfeghi Mahkameh , Ahsaie Mitra Ghazizadeh , Jamalzadeh Navid
Published: June 2023

Objectives: This study assessed the effect of voltage and amperage alterations in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) on metal artifact generation in the exomass.
Materials and Methods: In this in vitro experimental study, titanium dental implants and teeth with cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) intracanal post, and amalgam build-up restorations were placed in the exomass in a dry human mandible unilaterally and bilaterally. Ballistic gelatin was used for soft tissue simulation. The mandible was scanned by CS8100 3D-Carestream CBCT scanner with 5 x 5 cm field of view (FOV), 60 and 90 kVp voltage, and 2 and 10 mA amperage. The mean gray value (GV) in the region of interest (ROI) at the center of a polypropylene tube containing dipotassium phosphate was calculated on 10 axial sections using OnDemand software. The mean GV and its standard deviation (SD) represented the amount of generated artifacts. Data were analyzed by R software.
Results: Increasing the amperage increased the mean GV and decreased its SD (P<0.05). Increasing the voltage decreased the mean GV and its SD (P<0.05). Metal objects in the exomass significantly decreased the mean GV such that the lowest mean GV and the highest SD was recorded in presence of Co-Cr post followed by titanium implant, and amalgam build-up (P<0.05). Unilateral presence of metal objects had a significantly smaller effect on the mean GV and its SD (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Increasing the amperage and voltage decreased metal artifact generation in the exomass. Metal artifacts in the exomass can affect the GV and cause image distortion.
Effects of different feeding regimens on co-rearing of Labeo gonius and L. rohita: Unveiling growth, survival, and condition in concrete tanks
Authors: Debnath Chandan , Mahanta Prasanta
Published: June 2023

The study investigated the effects of different feeding treatments on the growth, survival, and condition of co-reared Labeo gonius and L. rohita in a cemented tank system (size: 7.25 m X 1.85 m X 0.85 m each). Fish were housed at a density of 10 fish/ m2, maintaining a balanced 1:1 ratio between the two species. Pellet feed (PF) at daily rates of 2%, 4%, and 6% of fish biomass, and conventional feed (CF) consisting of rice bran and mustard oil cake at a daily rate of 2% were compared. The study spanned 60 days and monitored various parameters, including growth, survival, condition factor, hepatosomatic index (HSI), viscerosomatic index (VSI), and monthly water quality assessments. CF-fed fish had a specific growth rate of 0.96% per day, while PF-fed fish showed a range from 1% to 2.9% per day. Survival rates were 84.5% for CF-fed fish and 86.5-91.5% for PF-fed fish. The feed conversion ratio was 1.6 for CF and 1.4-1.45 for PF. PF-fed fish also had higher condition (b>3), HSI ranging from 0.93% to 1.87%, and VSI ranging from 4.1% to 7.6%. L. rohita exhibited better growth, while L. gonius showed higher survival in all tanks. In conclusion, PF is a more beneficial feeding option than CF for co-rearing L. gonius and L. rohita, particularly in hilly environments. It is recommended to administer PF at a rate equivalent to 6% of fish biomass for optimal results. These findings provide valuable guidance for simultaneously rearing L. rohita and L. gonius, facilitating the adoption of appropriate feeding strategies.
Eligibility for needle aspiration of breast abscess and factors associated with adverse outcomes: A prospective cohort in two tertiary hospitals
Authors: Khamis Maulid Abdalla , Olasinde Anthoney Ayotunde , Molen Selamo Fabrice , Kyomukama Lauben , Kiswezi Ahmed , Muhumuza Joshua , Okedi Xaviour Francis
Published: June 2023

Introduction
Breast abscess is seen when mastitis is not treated appropriately in time resulting in accumulation of pus. Even though studies show that aspiration of breast abscess is superior to incision and drainage, most of the centers in low income countries like Uganda still practice incision and drainage as the first line surgical approach, yet it is associated with poor outcome. This study aimed at determining the proportion of breast abscesses eligible for needle aspiration and factors associated with adverse outcomes in a low income country.
Methods
This was a prospective cohort conducted at two regional referral hospitals in western Uganda in which all patients that presented with breast abscess were assessed for legibility of needle aspiration. Patients with breast abscess that underwent ultrasound guided needle aspiration were followed up for 21 days to determine the outcomes. Analysis was done using binary logistic regression in SPSS version 22 to determine the factors.
Results
During the study period, 120 females with breast abscesses were enrolled with majority aged between 18–30 years 64(53.3%). Of the 120, only 82 (68.3%) were eligible for ultrasound guided needle aspiration. The overall success rate was 89.0%, though ten patients still had pain on the 14th post-operative day (12.2%). The factors that were independently associated with adverse outcomes were: Age category 31–45 years (AOR = 0.042, P = 0. 006), being HIV positive (AOR = 7.374, P = 0.045) and having Diabetes mellitus (AOR = 24.654, P = 0.001).
Conclusion
Majority of the participants were eligible for aspiration, which method had high success rates. Health workers should consider using aspiration method for managing breast abscess among those eligible.
Approximate Solution of System of Multi-Term Fractional Mixed Volterra-Fredholm Integro-Differential Equations by BPFs
Authors: Barazandeh Yousef , Ghazanfari Bahman
Published: June 2023

We use the block pulse functions (BPFs) and their operational matrix to approximate solution of a system of multi-term fractional mixed Volterra-Fredholm integro-differential equations. Firstly, we homogenize it and then convert it to the system of algebraic equations. By solving the system of algebraic equations, a numerical solution is obtained.After demonstrating the method's convergence, several examples are presented. Comparing the results confirms the proposed method's applicability, accuracy, and efficiency.
Why does Ectopic Liver Tissue on the Gallbladder rarely have malignant transformation：Case Series
Authors: Zhou Yujie Zhou , Chen Jun , Liu Zhikun , Wang Kai , Wang Chao , Huan Tong , Yang Fan , Xu Xiao
Published: June 2023

Background
Ectopic liver tissue (ELT) is a rare developmental abnormality in which normally functioning liver tissue develops at an extra-hepatic site. Due to the atypical clinical symptoms of ELT, its clinical diagnosis is rarely easy, however, the risk of carcinogenesis is strongly increased due to its special pathological characteristics. So it should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of tumors or symptomatic mass.
Case presentation
Case 1：A 57-year-old female patient presented herself to the outpatient department of our hospital complaining of paroxysmal upper abdominal pain for one month. She was admitted due to "Multiple intrahepatic bile duct stones and chronic cholecystitis". During the surgery, an abnormally enlarged gallbladder of size about 12*8*5cmwas found. A tiny mass of about 1.2*0.6*0.3cm on the free wall of the gallbladder with a similar texture to the liver was also found. Case 2：An 87-year-old male patient presented himself to the emergency department of our hospital complaining of right upper abdomen pain for three days. He was admitted to the hospital due to "cholecystolithiasis and chronic cholecystitis". During the surgery, an abnormally enlarged gallbladder of size about 12*8*5cm. A tiny mass of about 1.2*0.6*0.3cm on the free wall of the gallbladder with a similar texture to the liver was also found. After surgery, the two patients are now in good overall condition.
Discussion and conclusions
In this two continuous cases of Ectopic liver tissue, the pathological examination and liver cancer markers “AFP” and “Glypican-3” did not support tumor lesions. Accordingly, we proposed a new hypothesis for this phenomenon, that cryptogenic functional excretory system (helps to excrete chemical carcinogens) from ELT into the gallbladder (a part of the biliary system) does exist but it cannot be found in ELT located in other organs. This phenomenon may provide a rational response to the question why does Ectopic Liver Tissue on the Gallbladder rarely have malignant transformation.
Caesarean delivery and neonatal mortality: Evidence from selected slums in and around Dhaka city, Bangladesh- A prospective cohort study
Authors: Razzaque Abdur , Chowdhury Razib , Mustafa AHM Golam , Billah Md Arif , Naima Shakera , Shafique Sohana , Sarker Bidhan Krishna , Islam Mohammad Zahirul , Kim Minjoon , Jahangir Margub Aref , Matin Ziaul , Ferdous Jannatul , Vandenent Maya , Rahman Anisur
Published: June 2023

Background
This study examined the survival of new-born up to neonatal period for those who delivered caesarean vs. vaginal using a prospective cohort.
Methods
A total of 6,989 births registered during 2016–2018 and were followed for neonatal survival from the selected slums of Dhaka (North & South) and Gazipur city corporations, where icddr,b maintained the Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) since 2015. Neonatal mortality was compared by maternal and new-born characteristics and mode of delivery using Z-ratios. Logistic regression model performed for neonatal mortality by mode of delivery controlling covariates and reported adjusted odd ratios with 95% confidence interval.
Results
Out of 6,989 births registered, 27.7% were caesarean and the rest were vaginal delivery; of these births, 265 neonatal deaths occurred during the follow-up. The neonatal mortality rate was 2.7 times (46 vs. 17 per 1,000 births) for vaginal than caesarean delivered. Until 3rd day of life, the risk of death was very high for both vaginal and caesarean delivered; however, on the 1st day of life, the risk of death was 3.8 times (24.8 vs. 6.3 per 1,000 births) for vaginal than caesarean delivered. In the regression analysis, the risk of neonatal mortality was higher for vaginal than caesarean delivered (aOR = 3.01; 95% CI: 1.80, 5.04), higher for adolescent than elderly adult mother (aOR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.06, 2.55), lower for girl than boy (aOR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.58, 0.96), lower for mother who had 5 or more years of schooling than those who had no schooling (aOR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.57, 1.03), higher for multiple than singleton birth (aOR = 5.50; 95% CI: 2.78, 10.23), higher for very/moderate (aOR = 4.96; 95% CI: 2.56, 6.91), and late preterm birth (aOR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.04, 2.06) than term birth. The causes of death differ for those vaginal and caesarean delivered.
Conclusion
Our study found that caesarean delivered babies had significantly lower neonatal mortality than vaginal delivered. This could be due to the differences in quality of care as caesarean delivery is performed by highly trained staff and the mother and newborn had to stay long time at the facility.
Eosinophils Predicts Coronary Artery Dilatation and Long-term Prognosis in Children with Kawasaki Disease after Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy
Authors: Sun Jiaying , Sun Chaonan , Cheng Xiaoli , Qi Jing , Han Lina , Zhang Qinyao , Gua Chaojun , Jiang Jinping , Su Jianyao , Wan Jiye
Published: June 2023

Background: Coronary artery dilation is the main cause of poor prognosis in children with Kawasaki disease. Whether eosinophils can predict coronary artery dilation and long-term prognosis in children after intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment for Kawasaki disease (KD).
Methods: From January 2018 to December 2020, a total of 664 children with Kawasaki disease were continuously enrolled.
Results: With a sensitivity of 77.78% and a specificity of 74.38%, the optimal cut-off value for predicting coronary artery dilatation is eosinophils ≥ 0.24. According to the cut-off value, the children were separated into two groups: eosinophils<0.24 group (n = 461) and eosinophils ≥ 0.24 group (n = 203). Eosinophils ≥ 0.24 as the ideal cut-off value for predicting cardiovascular death with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.772 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.720 ~ 0.823, P < 0.001], a sensitivity of 72.88%, and a specificity of 78.57%. The incidence of cardiovascular death, heart failure and multiple organ dysfunction was greater in the eosinophils ≥ 0.24 group, although there was no significant difference in the incidence of pericarditis procedures following IVIG between the two groups. Eosinophils ≥ 0.24 was also an independent predictor of cardiovascular death (hazard ratio = 4.95, 95% confidence interval (CI):2.98 ~ 8.23, P < 0.001). However, eosinophils have a lower sensitivity (23.08%) for predicting the recurrence of Kawasaki disease.
Conclusion: eosinophils ≥ 0.24 was independently associated with coronary artery dilatation and poor clinical outcomes for children in Kawasaki disease after IVIG treatment.
Prediction of contact characteristics of abrasive belt compliant grinding for aircraft blades
Authors: Duan Jihao , Wu Zhuofan , An Jiale , Wang Dou , Gao Feng , Huai Wenbo
Published: June 2023

Due to the characteristics of thin-walled curved surface, wall thickness variations and processing cantilever fixtures, the mechanical state of the different contact positions of aircraft engine blades varies significantly during the grinding process. The different contact interactions between contact wheel and blade result in changes of material removal efficiency and surface quality. To achieve contact state control during blade grinding process, a novel flexible abrasive belt grinding device was designed and developed considering the compliance of rubber contact wheel. The significant effect of compliance parameters on grinding contact state was verified through simulation. The grinding contact pressure distribution and normal contact force at different positions in the blade width and length directions were studied, and a prediction model for the maximum contact pressure and normal contact force was established based on BP neural networks. The results showed that with the increase in contact wheel compliance, the effective contact range increased, the pressure distribution gradually became uniform, and showed a double-elliptical distribution. The maximum contact pressure was significantly reduced, with a reduction of up to 46.00%. As the grinding contact position moved towards the weak rigidity area of the blade, the contact pressure distribution became more uniform. And the normal contact force was significantly reduced, with a maximum reduction of 68.49%. The mean average percentage error (MAPE) of the prediction model was small, verifying the effectiveness of the model. The research results of this manuscript laid a foundation for achieving consistent control of blade grinding material removal rate through contact wheel compliance adjustment.
USP22 promotes tumorigenesis and progression by a FKBP12/mTORC1/autophagy positive feedback loop in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ye Qianwei , Zhou Wei , Xu Shengjun , Que Qingyang , Zhan Qifan , Zhang Lincheng , Zheng Shusen , Ling Sunbin , Xu Xiao
Published: June 2023

Background: Ubiquitin-specific protease 22 (USP22) was a potential cancer stem cell (CSC) marker and could promote hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stemness upon tumor protein P53 (TP53) inactivation, which have been viewed as drivers of tumorigenesis. Here, we determined the role of USP22 in hepatotumorigenesis, illustrated the underlying mechanism as well as explored the therapeutic significance of USP22 in HCC.
Methods: A mouse model of orthotopic HCC was established to investigate the role of USP22 during tumorigenesis. RNA-sequencing was performed to find downstream genes. Cell proliferation, counting, migration and colony formation were used to detect USP22 function in HCC cells. Immunoprecipitation and ubiquitination assay were applied to elucidate the mechanism of USP22 and FK506-binding protein 12 (FKBP12). HCC patients’ samples after liver transplantation (LT) were used to demonstrate the clinical significance.
Results: Usp22 accelerated c-Myc/NRasGV12 induced HCC in mice and mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway was activated in the downstream. Besides, USP22 overexpression resulted in increased tumorigenic properties, which could be reversed by rapamycin in vitro and in vivo. USP22 activated mTORC1 by direct binding to FKBP12 and deubiquitinating it. In addition, activated mTORC1 further stabilized USP22 via inhibiting autophagic degradation in turn. Clinically, LT recipients with high USP22 expression tended to benefit from the use of sirolimus.
Conclusions: USP22 promotes tumorigenesis and progression by a FKBP12/mTORC1/autophagy positive feedback loop in HCC. USP22 could be an effective biomarker for selecting eligible recipients with HCC to receive anti-mTOR-based therapies after LT.
A Case Study on Estimation of Sensor Data Generation in Smart Cities and the role of Opportunistic Networks in Sensor Data Collection
Authors: Gandhi Jay , Narmawala Zunnun
Published: June 2023

The across-the-global diffusion of smartphones is initiating an enormous growth of data traffic. Soon, the existing cellular networks will suffer from traffic overload issues, and establishing additional infrastructure might be the costlier solution. An offloading of the traffic to different networks is considered a promising approach. Opportunistic offloading refers to diverting traffic from a cellular network to Opportunistic Networks (OppNets) by utilizing nearby devices having idle computing resources through opportunistic contacts. As a case study, we analyzed the number of sensors needed and the amount of data generated in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar by considering the smart city scenario. The paper comprehensively reviews OppNets in data offloading for various scenarios and applications of smart cities. We further point out the important future challenges, problems, and applications.