bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biotechnologies for bulk production of microalgal biomass: from mass cultivation to dried biomass acquisition
Authors: Qin Song , Wang Kang , Gao Fengzheng , Ge Baosheng , Cui Hongli , Li Wenjun
Published: August 2023

Microalgal biomass represents a sustainable bioresource for various applications, such as food, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, feed, and other bio-based products. For decades, its mass production has attracted widespread attention and interest. The process of microalgal biomass production involves several techniques, mainly cultivation, harvesting, drying, and pollution control. These techniques are often designed and optimized to meet optimal growth conditions for microalgae and to produce high-quality biomass at acceptable cost. Importantly, mass production techniques are important for producing a commercial product in sufficient amounts. However, it should not be overlooked that microalgal biotechnology still faces challenges, in particular the high cost of production, the lack of knowledge about biological contaminants and the challenge of loss of active ingredients during biomass production. These issues involve the research and development of low-cost, standardized, industrial-scale production equipment and the optimization of production processes, as well as the urgent need to increase the research on biological contaminants and microalgal active ingredients. This review systematically examines the global development of microalgal biotechnology for biomass production, with emphasis on the techniques of cultivation, harvesting, drying and control of biological contaminants, and discusses the challenges and strategies to further improve quality and reduce costs. Moreover, the current status of biomass production of some biotechnologically important species has been summarized, and the importance of improving microalgae-related standards for their commercial applications is noted.
Semiochemical delivery systems based on natural polymers to attract sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae)
Authors: Bueno Ana Carolina , Machado Vicente Estevam , da Rocha Silva Flávia Benini , Boni Fernanda Isadora , Cury Beatriz Stringhetti Ferreira , Gremião Maria Palmira Daflon , Pinto Mara Cristina
Published: August 2023

Background

The successful use of semiochemicals to attract insects to traps is based on research on the most suitable compounds and their release profiles over time. Based on the group's promising results, matrices with a more adequate release profile and more eco-friendly properties for the release of 1-hexanol were developed. To use a more suitable prototype in the field, the most promising systems were added to a capsule and evaluated in a wind tunnel. Behavioral experiments were performed using the sand fly species, Lutzomyia longipalpis, to evaluate the efficacy of the proposed system.

Methods

Different delivery systems were developed by varying the polymer (gellan gum and pectin) ratio, crosslinker (aluminum chloride) concentration, and glutaraldehyde removal.The delivery systems were loaded with 1-hexanol, and their release profiles were evaluated using gravimetric analysis under ambient and high-humidity conditions. When the matrix system was placed inside a plastic container, modulations in the active release profile were observed and the system could be reused. Actid attraction behaviors of the sand fly species, Lu. longipalpis, were evaluated in a wind tunnel when exposed to 1-hexanol-loaded release systems at different times.

Results

Among the four formulations evaluated, System 2 (gellan gum and pectin in a 1:1 ratio with 5% aluminum chloride) exhibited the most promising release profile, with greater uniformity and longer compound release time. The maximum 1-hexanol release uniformity was achieved over a longer time, mainly every 24 h, under both ambient and high-humidity conditions. System 2 can be reused at least once with the same structure. The wind tunnel trials exhibited efficient activation and attraction of Lu. longipalpis to 1-hexanol after 24, 48, and 72 h in System 2 placed inside the capsules.

Conclusions

The polymeric matrix supplemented with 1-hexanol and introduced in plastic capsules showed promising results in attracting sand flies. This system can be used as a solution for other attractive compounds as well as in other applications where their release needs to be controlled or prolonged.

Graphical Abstract
Optimization of the arginase activity assay micromethod for macrophages and sera
Authors: Nzoumbou-Boko Romaric , Zolipou Cyrille Oliver Ozzin-Kholy , Yambiyo Brice Martial , Semballa Silla , Nalingbo Mireille Cornelia Ingrid Denissio M , Daulouède Sylvie , Vincendeau Philippe
Published: August 2023

Objective

We optimized the spectrophotometric micromethod for the determination of arginase activity based on the Corraliza et al. modification of Schimke’s method. Arginase activity in sera from patients suffering from human African trypanosomiasis, in macrophage lysates from trypanosome-infected mice, and in purified bovine liver arginase was compared using the conventional and optimized micromethods.

Results

The sensitivity of both micromethods was comparable. However, our optimized method has the following advantages: it uses small sample volumes (6 µl per assay vs. 50 µl) and reagent volumes (200 µl vs. 400 µl), it can be carried out in a single microplate well, thereby minimizing handling, and it requires fewer materials and utilizes readily available equipment. Our optimized method proved to be applicable and well suited for small-volume samples and resource-poor laboratories.
Autoinflammatory gene mutations associated with eosinophilia and asthma
Authors: Alotaibi Bashayr M. , Lopez Rodriguez Raquel , Garrido Carmen Venegas , Gonzalez Bravo Lucia , Khalidi Nader , Nair Parameswaran
Published: August 2023

Background

Respiratory conditions, such as asthma, are infrequently associated with auto-inflammatory diseases. We describe five patients with uncontrolled respiratory symptoms that were seen at St. Joesph’s Healthcare in Hamilton for severe asthma management diagnosed with rare autoinflammatory conditions using genetic molecular analysis.

Case presentation

Five patients are included in this case series. Gene mutations associated with familial Mediterranean fever, Yao syndrome, Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome, and Majeed syndrome were considered to explain partly the patient’s clinical manifestation after comprehensive clinical, biochemical, hematological investigations ruled out other disorders such as parasitosis, Allergic Bronchopulmonary Fungosis, Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Poly Angitis, IgG4 disease, and Hypereosinophilia syndrome.

Conclusions

Complex patients initially presenting with respiratory conditions in addition to unexplained autoinflammatory conditions are a diagnostic challenge. Genetic molecular testing provides healthcare practitioners with useful information that may diagnose underlying auto-inflammatory diseases in undifferentiated patients. Role of inflammasome-activation in asthma and eosinophilia needs further investigation.
A dual-tracer approach using [11C]CH and [18F]FDG in HCC clinical decision making
Authors: Veenstra Emile B. , Ruiter Simeon J. S. , de Haas Robbert J. , de Jong Koert P. , Erba Paola A. , Dierckx Rudi A. J. O. , Noordzij Walter
Published: August 2023

Background

Early detection of recurrent or progressive HCC remains the strongest prognostic factor for survival. Dual tracer PET/CT imaging with [11C]CH and [18F]FDG can further increase detection rates as both tracers entail different metabolic pathways involved in HCC development. We investigated dual-tracer PET/CT in clinical decision making in patients suspected of recurrent or progressive HCC. All HCC patients who underwent both [11C]CH and [18F]FDG PET/CT in our institute from February 2018 to December 2021 were included. Both tracer PET/CT were within 4 weeks of each other with at least 6-month follow-up. Patients underwent dual tracer PET/CT because of unexplained and suspicious CT/MRI or sudden rise of serum tumour markers. A detected lesion was considered critical when the finding had prognostic consequences leading to treatment changes.

Results

Nineteen patients who underwent [11C]CH and [18F]FDG PET/CT were included of which all but six patients were previously treated for HCC. Dual-tracer critical finding detection rate was 95%, with [18F]FDG 68%, and [11C]CH 84%. Intrahepatic HCC recurrence finding rate was 65% for both tracers. [18F]FDG found more ablation site recurrences (4/5) compared to [11C]CH (2/5). Only [11C]CH found two needle tract metastases. Both tracers found 75% of the positive lymph nodes. Two new primary tumours were found, one by [18F]FDG and both by [11C]CH.

Conclusions

Our study favours a dual-tracer approach in HCC staging in high-risk patients or when conventional imaging is non-conclusive.
Capitalizing Contradictoriness: Ranchers between State and Open Range – and vis-à-vis Pastoralists
Authors: Schareika Nikolaus
Published: August 2023

The article explores and discusses findings from historical, geographical and anthropological research arguing that not simply a capitalist outlook but a footing in the state was crucial to the emergence and development of ranching. It develops the proposition that during a frontier phase, ranching evolved as a social, economic and ecological system of livestock keeping that was predicated on and exploited a duality of structures with the confining state on one side and the open range on the other, both separated and connected by a frontier. This is what makes ranching historically different from pastoralism despite superficial similarities. As pastoralism is increasingly connected to markets, capitalism and society at large, developing properties typically known from ranching, the article makes a case for taking a closer look at historical ranching in order to study transforming pastoral societies of the presence.
Expression of expanded GGC repeats within NOTCH2NLC causes cardiac dysfunction in mouse models
Authors: Pan Yongcheng , Jiang Ying , Wan Juan , Hu Zhengmao , Jiang Hong , Shen Lu , Tang Beisha , Tian Yun , Liu Qiong
Published: August 2023

Background

Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by widespread intranuclear inclusions in the nervous system as well as multiple visceral organs. In 2019, expanded GGC repeats within the 5′ untranslated region of the NOTCH2NLC gene was identified as the causative factor. NIID is a heterogeneous disorder with variable clinical manifestations including cognitive impairment, cerebellar ataxia, parkinsonism, paroxysmal symptoms, autonomic dysfunction, and muscle weakness. Although NIID primarily affects the central and peripheral nervous systems, growing evidence suggests potential cardiac abnormalities in NIID. However, the link between expanded GGC repeats within NOTCH2NLC and cardiac dysfunction remains uncertain.

Results

In this study, we utilized two transgenic mouse models, expressing NOTCH2NLC-(GGC)98 ubiquitously or specifically in cardiomyocytes, and identified p62 (also known as sequestosome 1, SQSTM1)-positive intranuclear NOTCH2NLC-polyG inclusions in cardiomyocytes in two mouse models. We observed that both models exhibited cardiac-related pathological and echocardiographic changes, albeit exhibiting varying degrees of severity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed shared downregulation of genes related to ion channels and mitochondria in both models, with the cardiomyocyte-specific mice showing a more pronounced downregulation of mitochondria and energy metabolism-related pathways. Further investigations revealed decreased expression of mitochondria-related genes and electron transport chain activity. At last, we conducted a retrospective review of cardiac-related examination results from NIID patients at our hospital and also identified some cardiac abnormalities in NIID patients.

Conclusions

Our study provided the first in vivo evidence linking GGC repeat expansions within NOTCH2NLC to cardiac abnormalities and highlighted the contribution of mitochondrial dysfunction in the development of cardiac abnormalities.
Quantization error for weak RF simultaneous signal estimation
Authors: Lanzerotti Mary Y. , Queen Adaya , Cerny Charles
Published: August 2023

In a congested signal environment, it is difficult to obtain estimates of weak RF signal parameters. Determining signal parameter estimates in real time is a challenge for electronic warfare receivers that aim to receive multiple simultaneous signals. Prior work provided estimates of weak signal parameters (weak signal frequency and weak signal amplitude) without taking into account any error introduced by analog-to-digital converters that are inherently part of digital signal processing systems. In order to obtain realistic estimates, we need to take error introduced by an ADC into account. The primary aim of this paper is to quantify error introduced by a single ideal ADC as a function of angle. This paper presents a method to estimate angle resolution and quantization levels in N-bit analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) for use in a weak radiofrequency (RF) simultaneous signal estimation process. The paper quantifies the error in the angle quantization of an N-bit ADC for an input complex signal that is the instantaneous frequency obtained for the situation in which there are two simultaneous signals (with one strong signal and one weak signal) in a weak RF simultaneous signal estimation process. The presented method describes the process to determine the angle quantization range, angle quantization uncertainty, and angle quantization error. This approach has potential applications in electronic warfare (EW) systems. The approach also has potential for assessing ADC performance for measurements that approach the quantum limit. Results are presented for 1-bit, 2-bit, 3-bit, and 10-bit ADCs.
A novel adaptive beamforming scheme for array signal data processing
Authors: Shi Heping , Yan Guanghui , Hou Haijing , Jiang Xiaoheng
Published: August 2023

When the desired signal data exists in the array received data or the steering vector has a mismatch problem, the current traditional adaptive beamformers will suffer from the effect of the desired signal cancelation phenomenon, resulting in a sharp decline in performance. To address the occurrence of desired signal cancelation, an improved matrix projection-based efficient beamforming method is proposed. Firstly, based on spatial partitioning (SP) technology, a significant projection matrix for interference-plus-noise space (INS) is constructed. Secondly, using the constructed key projection matrix, the sample data covariance matrix is projected into the INS to achieve the goal of suppressing the desired signal data information. Finally, the weight data vector is calculated by Capon beamformer. The proposed algorithm does not require an iterative search for the optimal solution, which has the advantage of a small amount of calculation. Simulation experiments have verified that the proposed method has significant advantages in suppressing the desired data signals. Especially when the desired data signal has large power, the signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) of the proposed algorithm is better than that of the compared algorithms under the conditions of random directionality errors or local scattering errors between the desired signal and interference.
Determinants of consumers’ purchase intention on digital business model platform: evidence from Ethiopia using partial least square structural equation model (PLS-SEM) technique
Authors: Tilahun Mulatu , Berhan Eshetie , Tesfaye Gezahegn
Published: August 2023

Online digital market platform business model designers, marketers, and retailers can further expand their marketing strategies to draw in and keep customers to gain a competitive edge globally if they are aware of the elements influencing consumers' purchasing intentions. The purpose of this research is to identify the crucial variables impacting Addis Ababa University, Graduating Engineering Students’ desire to purchase on online digital market platforms, and narrow the research gap on determinants of online purchase intention of Ethiopian consumers. This study adopted a descriptive and inferential survey design, epistemology assumption, and employed the positivism research philosophy approach to test the research hypotheses. The primary study technique used to collect relevant data was a closed-ended 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. The information was gathered from 100 Ethiopian, Addis Ababa University, graduating engineering students. With the use of SPSS version 23 and SmartPLS version 3.0 software, the data were examined using descriptive statistics and the inferential partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique. The results of this study highlighted five useful decision-making elements that have an impact on the selected consumers' intention to buy on online digital market platforms including Website Design, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Trust, and Subjective Norms. The Practical Implication of this research is that with a clear understanding of the key determinants of consumers’ purchase intention on online digital market platforms; manufacturers, online marketers, and retailers can create effective market strategies, enhance technology, and make smart marketing choices that will help them gain global competitive advantage. This study is unique in that it uses a new conceptual research framework and the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique to analyze relationships between determinant variables and consumers’ intention to purchase on online digital market platforms. The major finding of this research provides empirical evidence towards the key determinant variables of consumers’ purchase intention on online digital market platforms. The small sample size is one of the limitations to generalize the finding of this research. Future studies should focus on enlarging the sample size and assessing more determinant variables to get a generalizable result.
Protective effects of paraoxonase-1, vitamin E and selenium, and oxidative stress index on the susceptibility of low density lipoprotein to oxidation in diabetic patients with/without coronary artery disease
Authors: Mehvari Fatemeh , Imanparast Fatemeh , Mohaghegh Pegah , Alimoradian Abbas , Khansari Nafiseh , Ansari Asl Behnoosh , Khosrowbeygi Ali
Published: August 2023

Background

The oxidative modification of low density lipoprotein (LDL) is closely associated with an increased risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) in diabetic patients. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relation between serum vitamin E and selenium, paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and oxidative stress index (OSI) values with the susceptibility of LDL to oxidative modification and the possibility of CAD in diabetic patients.

Method

This study was designed as a case control survey of 82 diabetes patients divided into two groups including T2DM alone (as group I) and both T2DM and CAD (as group II). Fasting blood samples were taken to the assay of fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, total cholesterol (TC), TAC, TOS, MDA, OSI, vitamin E, selenium, oxidized low density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL), and activity of PON1.

Results

Ox-LDL, MDA, TOS, and OSI values in groups II were significantly higher compared with group I (all with P value = 0.000). TAC, vitamin E, selenium, and PON1 activity values were significantly lower in group II compared with groups I (P value = 0.000; P value = 0.000; P value = 0.007; P value = 0.003, respectively). There were significant relationships between the amounts of TAC, TOS, OSI, and vitamin E with the amounts of PON1 activity and Ox-LDL (p < 0.05). But Ox-LDL and PON1 activity correlated weakly with together (p = 0.094).

Conclusion

Results of this study support the belief that oxidative stress might be an important etiologic factor which makes some diabetics more susceptible to CAD. Increased oxidative stress may be a potential therapeutic target in the prevention and management of CAD in diabetic patients.
Bevacizumab plus erlotinib versus erlotinib alone for advanced EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Li Ruijian , Li Weiyi , Zhang Fang , Li Shanshan
Published: August 2023

Objective

Previous studies showed that the combination of bevacizumab and erlotinib (combination therapy) significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) but no overall survival (OS) compared to erlotinib alone (monotherapy) for advanced EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Two phase III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) had reported the OS results in 2021. This meta-analysis aimed to include the results of the two RCTs to make a decision.

Materials and methods

We systematically searched relevant databases for RCTs on the use of bevacizumab plus erlotinib in advanced EGFR-mutant NSCLC. The main outcomes of interest were PFS, OS, and the reported hazard ratio (HR). Fixed-effect model was used to estimate pooled HR.

Results

Total 5 RCTs with 935 patients were eligible for this meta-analysis. All studies reached their primary study endpoints including PFS and OS. Compared to monotherapy, combination therapy remarkably prolonged PFS (HR = 0.60, 95% confidence interval CI 0.51–0.70; p < 0.00001); however, OS was similar between the two groups (HR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.76–1.08; p = 0.26). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that in deletion within exon 19 (19del) mutation subgroup, the combination therapy could only prolong PFS (HR = 0.60, 95% CI 0.47–0.76; p < 0.0001) but not OS (HR = 1.00, 95% CI 0.73–1.37; p = 1.00), and also in leucine-to-arginine substitution in exon 21 (L858R) mutation subgroup (HR = 0.59, p < 0.0001 and HR = 0.80, p = 0.18, respectively). For patients with brain metastasis at baseline, the combination therapy achieved a significant better PFS than the monotherapy (HR = 0.60, 95% CI 0.39–0.90; p = 0.01), and a better OS with the difference marginally significant (HR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.46–1.02; p = 0.06).

Conclusions

Combination of bevacizumab and erlotinib can prolong progression-free survival but not overall survival compared to erlotinib alone in advanced EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer patients. The combination therapy not only can prolong progression-free survival but also has a tendency to prolong overall survival for patients with brain metastasis at baseline.
SIgA in various pulmonary diseases
Authors: Wang Xintian , Zhang Jun , Wu Yan , Xu Yuncong , Zheng Jinxu
Published: August 2023

Secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) is one of the most abundant immunoglobulin subtypes among mucosa, which plays an indispensable role in the first-line protection against invading pathogens and antigens. Therefore, the role of respiratory SIgA in respiratory mucosal immune diseases has attracted more and more attention. Although the role of SIgA in intestinal mucosal immunity has been widely studied, the cell types responsible for SIgA and the interactions between cells are still unclear. Here, we conducted a wide search of relevant studies and sorted out the relationship between SIgA and some pulmonary diseases (COPD, asthma, tuberculosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, COVID-19, lung cancer), which found SIgA is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of various lung diseases, intending to provide new ideas for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of related lung diseases.
Elevated expression of the RNA-binding protein IGF2BP1 enhances the mRNA stability of INHBA to promote the invasion and migration of esophageal squamous cancer cells
Authors: Wang Juan-Juan , Chen Ding-Xiong , Zhang Yu , Xu Xin , Cai Yan , Wei Wen-Qiang , Hao Jia-Jie , Wang Ming-Rong
Published: August 2023

Background

The mechanisms underlying the occurrence and development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains to be elucidated. The present study aims to investigate the roles and implications of IGF2BP1 overexpression in ESCC.

Methods

IGF2BP1 protein expression in ESCC samples was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the mRNA abundance of IGF2BP1 and INHBA was analyzed with TCGA datasets and by RNA in situ hybridization (RISH). The methylation level of the IGF2BP1 promoter region was detected by methylation-specific PCR (MSP-PCR). Cell viability, migration, invasion and in vivo metastasis assays were performed to explore the roles of IGF2BP1 overexpression in ESCC. RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (RIP-seq) and mass spectrometry were applied to identify the target RNAs and interacting proteins of IGF2BP1, respectively. RIP-PCR, RNA pulldown, immunofluorescence (IF), gene-specific m6A PCR and RNA stability assays were used to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying the malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells caused by IGF2BP1 dysregulation. BTYNB, a small molecular inhibitor of IGF2BP1, was evaluated for its inhibitory effect on the malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells.

Results

IGF2BP1 overexpression was detected in ESCC tissues and associated with the depth of tumor invasion. In addition, IGF2BP1 mRNA expression in ESCC cells was negatively correlated with the level of its promoter methylation. Knockdown of IGF2BP1 inhibited ESCC cell invasion and migration as well as tumor metastasis. Mechanistically, we observed that IGF2BP1 bound and stabilized INHBA mRNA and then resulted in higher protein expression of INHBA, leading to the activation of Smad2/3 signaling, thus promoting malignant phenotypes. The mRNA level of INHBA was upregulated in ESCC tissues as well. Furthermore, IGF2BP1 interacted with G3BP stress granule assembly factor 1 (G3BP1). Knockdown of G3BP1 also down-regulated the INHBA-Smad2/3 signaling. BTYNB abolished this activated signaling and significantly attenuated the malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells.

Conclusions

Elevated expression of IGF2BP1 is a frequent event in ESCC tissues and might be a candidate biomarker for the disease. IGF2BP1 overexpression promotes the invasion and migration of ESCC cells by activating the INHBA-Smad2/3 pathway, providing a potential therapeutic target for ESCC patients with high expression of IGF2BP1.
Heritability and recursive influence of host genetics on the rumen microbiota drive body weight variance in male Hu sheep lambs
Authors: Wang Weimin , Zhang Yukun , Zhang Xiaoxue , Li Chong , Yuan Lvfeng , Zhang Deyin , Zhao Yuan , Li Xiaolong , Cheng Jiangbo , Lin Changchun , Zhao Liming , Wang Jianghui , Xu Dan , Yue Xiangpeng , Li Wanhong , Wen Xiuxiu , Jiang Zhihua , Ding Xuezhi , Salekdeh Ghasem Hosseini , Li Fadi
Published: August 2023

Background

Heritable rumen microbiota is an important modulator of ruminant growth performance. However, no information exists to date on host genetics-rumen microbiota interactions and their association with phenotype in sheep. To solve this, we curated and analyzed whole-genome resequencing genotypes, 16S rumen-microbiota data, and longitudinal body weight (BW) phenotypes from 1150 sheep.

Results

A variance component model indicated significant heritability of rumen microbial community diversity. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) using microbial features as traits identified 411 loci-taxon significant associations (P < 10−8). We found a heritability of 39% for 180-day-old BW, while also the rumen microbiota likely played a significant role, explaining that 20% of the phenotypic variation. Microbiota-wide association studies (MWAS) and GWAS identified four marker genera (Bonferroni corrected P < 0.05) and five novel genetic variants (P < 10−8) that were significantly associated with BW. Integrative analysis identified the mediating role of marker genera in genotype influencing phenotype and unravelled that the same genetic markers have direct and indirect effects on sheep weight.

Conclusions

This study reveals a reciprocal interplay among host genetic variations, the rumen microbiota and the body weight traits of sheep. The information obtained provide insights into the diverse microbiota characteristics of rumen and may help in designing precision microbiota management strategies for controlling and manipulating sheep rumen microbiota to increase productivity.
A genome-wide cross-trait analysis identifies genomic correlation, pleiotropic loci, and causal relationship between sex hormone-binding globulin and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Jiang Yuan , Liu Qianwen , Alfredsson Lars , Klareskog Lars , Kockum Ingrid , Jiang Xia
Published: August 2023

Background

Our study aims to investigate an intrinsic link underlying sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which remains inconclusive in observational settings.

Methods

Summary statistics were collected from the largest GWAS(s) on SHBG adjusted for BMI (SHBGadjBMI; Noverall = 368,929; Nmen = 180,094; Nwomen = 188,908), crude SHBG (Noverall = 370,125; Nmen = 180,726; Nwomen = 189,473), and RA (Ncase = 22,350; Ncontrol = 74,823). A genome-wide cross-trait design was performed to quantify global and local genetic correlation, identify pleiotropic loci, and infer a causal relationship.

Results

Among the overall population, a significant global genetic correlation was observed for SHBGadjBMI and RA ($$r_{{\text{g}}}$$

r
g

 = 0.11, P = 1.0 × 10−4) which was further supported by local signal (1q25.2). A total of 18 independent pleiotropic SNPs were identified, of which three were highly likely causal variants and four were found to have effects on both traits through gene expression mediation. A putative causal association of SHBGadjBMI on RA was demonstrated (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.01–1.43) without evidence of reverse causality (OR = 0.999, 95% CI = 0.997–1.000). Sex-specific analyses revealed distinct shared genetic regions (men: 1q32.1-q32.2 and 5p13.1; women: 1q25.2 and 22q11.21-q11.22) and diverse pleiotropic SNPs (16 in men and 18 in women, nearly half were sex-specific) underlying SHBGadjBMI and RA, demonstrating biological disparities between sexes. Replacing SHBGadjBMI with crude SHBG, a largely similar yet less significant pattern of results was observed.

Conclusion

Our cross-trait analysis suggests an intrinsic, as well as a sex-specific, link underlying SHBG and RA, providing novel insights into disease etiology.
Non-invasive analysis of heritage textiles with MA-XRF mapping—exploring the possibilities. The study of Bishop Jacques de Vitry's mitres and fragile medieval reliquary purses from Namur (Belgium)
Authors: Vanden Berghe Ina , Van Bos Marina , Vandorpe Maaike , Coudray Alexia
Published: August 2023

This manuscript explores the potential of macro-X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) for the non-invasive analysis of heritage textiles. XRF, especially with the portable instruments, is a well-known technique for the non-destructive examination of various cultural heritage objects. It allows analysis of elemental composition based on single-point measurements. However, large, or complex textiles require numerous analysis points to identify the materials used and correctly interpret the spectra. MA-XRF takes this type of research to the next level, as it is possible to visualise the element distribution over an entire mapped area. In this paper, we discuss the application of this technique to the study of complex and multi-layered textile objects from exceptional Belgian heritage collections, including two mitres attributed to Bishop Jacques de Vitry, dating between twelfth and thirteenth century, and two of the seven extremely fine medieval reliquary purses from Namur. These are very fragile, richly decorated textile objects whose current state of preservation is a major impediment to sampling. MA-XRF mapping was applied for the identification of the elements of different materials in a non-invasive manner, including metal threads, ink, dyes, and various materials used in illuminations. In addition to material identification, stratigraphic information was obtained from the visualisation of element distributions, and hidden structural details were discovered. MA-XRF was also tested on some areas with more relief, such as the embroidery and braid made with metal threads, and the undulated multi-layered structure of the parchment mitre. Even though the analyses here could not be carried out in optimal conditions, these locations could also be analysed, albeit at a lower resolution. Finally, the technique proved very effective as a tool for screening, allowing samples to be taken at a more informative and representative location and minimising sampling.
Retinal photograph-based deep learning system for detection of hyperthyroidism: a multicenter, diagnostic study
Authors: Dong Li , Ju Lie , Hui Shiqi , Luo Lihua , Jiang Xue , Nie Zihan , Zhang Ruiheng , Zhou Wenda , Li Heyan , Jonas Jost B. , Wang Xin , Zhao Xin , He Chao , Chen Yuzhong , Wang Zhaohui , Gao Jianxiong , Ge Zongyuan , Wei Wenbin , Li Dongmei
Published: August 2023

Background

Screening for hyperthyroidism using gold-standard diagnostic criteria in the general population is not cost-effective, leading to a relatively high rate of undiagnosed and untreated patients. This study aimed to establish a deep learning-based system to detect hyperthyroidism based on retinal photographs.

Methods

The multicenter, observational study included retinal photographs taken from participants in two hospitals and 24 health care centers throughout China. We first trained two models to identify hyperthyroidism: in model #1, the non-hyperthyroidism individuals were randomly selected, while in model #2, the non-hyperthyroidism group was matched for age and gender with the hyperthyroidism group. After internal validation, we selected the better model for further evaluation using external validation datasets.

Results

The study included 22,940 retinal photographs of 11,409 participants for the model development, and 3862 retinal photographs (1870 participants) which were obtained from two hospitals and four medical centers as the external validation datasets. Model #1 achieved a higher area under the receiver operator curve (AUC) than model #2 (0.907, 95% CI: 0.894–0.918 versus 0.850, 95% CI: 0.832–0.866) in the internal validation so that model #1 was used for further evaluation. In external datasets, model #1 reached AUCs ranging from 0.816 (95% CI 0.789–0.846) to 0.849 (95% CI 0.824–0.874) and achieved accuracies between 0.735 (95% CI 0.700–0.773) and 0.796 (95% CI 0.765–0.824). Heatmaps showed a focus of the DL-algorism on large fundus vessels and the optic nerve head.

Conclusions

Retinal fundus photographs may serve for DL systems for a cost-effective and non-invasive method to detect hyperthyroidism.
Anesthetic management of scapular Y-osteotomy using a combination of suprascapular nerve block and erector spinae plane block for Sprengel deformity associated with Klippel-Feil syndrome: a case report
Authors: Okada Mizuho , Tanaka Nobuhiro , Suzuka Takanori , Kadoya Yuma , Saisu Takashi , Kawaguchi Masahiko
Published: August 2023

Background

Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) occurs in 1/40,000 individuals and is characterized by cervical fusion. Thirty percent of patients with KFS present with Sprengel deformity, leading to orthopedic problems and limited shoulder abduction. No reports exist regarding anesthetic procedures for pediatric scapular osteotomies.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 4-year-and-7-month-old boy (95.6 cm, 14.7 kg) who underwent left scapular osteotomy. At the age of 8 months, he also underwent a right lower lobectomy due to a congenital pulmonary airway malformation. We decided to use a combination of suprascapular nerve block (SSNB), erector spinae plane block (ESPB), and general anesthesia. He received regular acetaminophen administration and fentanyl 5–10 μg/hour intravenously until 20 h postoperatively and remained on ≤ 2/10 in the Wong-Baker Face Scale (0: no hurt; 10: hurts worst).

Conclusion

The combination of SSNB and ESPB could be an option for perioperative analgesia for scapular osteotomies.
Tracking demands for seeking psychological help before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a quanti-qualitative study
Authors: Coutinho Bruna M. C. , Anunciação Luis F. C. , Landeira-Fernandez Jesus , Krahe Thomas E.
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed unprecedented burdens on individuals and communities around the world. The isolation, fear, and uncertainty caused by the virus has led to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The pandemic has also had a disproportionate impact on individuals and communities with low income and socioeconomic status.

Objective

To shed light on the consequences of the pandemic on individuals from minorities and low-income areas, we investigate the main reasons that led patients who were referred to a social clinic of a private university in Rio de Janeiro to seek psychological treatment before (2019) and during the pandemic (2020 and 2021).

Methods

We conducted a quanti-qualitative study with a lexical analysis that evaluated 549 complaint forms of patients seeking treatment in these two distinct periods. Our analyses included descending hierarchical analysis (DHA) and correspondence factor analysis (CFA).

Results

Family dynamics and communication factors play a dominant role in the reason for seeking therapy and psychological treatment. Additionally, our study suggested an increase in anxiety and panic attacks among other mental health issues associated with grief and losses during the pandemic years.

Conclusion

Based on these analyses, we can begin to identify a few changes in the main demand and redirection of complaints of patients during the period of COVID-19.
Social anxiety in digital learning environments: an international perspective and call to action
Authors: Ifenthaler Dirk , Cooper Martin , Daniela Linda , Sahin Muhittin
Published: August 2023

The research focused on digital learning environments has identified various challenges for learners, such as technical problems, lack of community, motivation, self-regulation, self-efficacy, and social anxiety. Social anxiety is conceptualized as an emotional disorder that may impede achievement in higher education. The project reported here investigates N = 666 students' social anxiety in digital learning environments at four higher education institutions located in Australia, Germany, Latvia, and Turkey. This range of contexts allowed the research to cover a wide variety of cultural and institutional idiosyncrasies. Findings revealed different levels of social anxiety in higher education digital learning environments across countries and their cultural contexts. In addition, gender plays a significant role in social anxiety for peer interactions with female students reporting higher social anxiety than male students. The findings suggest that it is worth tertiary educators pausing to consider social anxiety's role in reducing interactions within digital learning environments. Additional research is required to establish the causes of social anxiety in digital learning environments and, as a result, to develop strategies to minimise its effect.

Graphical Abstract
Intrinsic conflicts within ethnic and religious issues in France
Authors: Zhang Jinling
Published: August 2023

In contemporary France, there are intense conflicts that involve both ethnic and religious issues. These conflicts provide an opportunity to study the many challenges involved in the construction of national communities and the governance of nation-states in the West. In the case of France, the continued exacerbation of the ethnic and religious problems is undeniably rooted in a range of factors both historical and current. However, the fundamental factor is that certain dominant ideologies and their value claims clash with the diverse and pluralistic nature of contemporary French society. To a certain extent, the disciplining on French society from these ideologies has distorted and contradicted it across multiple levels. Closely intertwined with ethnicity and religion, these issues predominantly manifest in the Muslim community. The notion of the “civic nation” in particular persistently excludes the notion of the “ethnic nation”. As a result, Muslims face identity dilemmas as an ethnic minority, leading to ethnic conflicts. Furthermore, in France, religious practices continue to deconstruct secular principles. This results in a crisis of secularism and further exacerbates the dispute between Muslims and indigenous society. These two fundamental ideologies, along with numerous associated conflicts, have profoundly influenced how ethnic and religious issues evolved in France, posing a significant challenge to France’s national identity.
Analytical solution of thermal effect on unsteady visco-elastic dusty fluid between two parallel plates in the presence of different pressure gradients
Authors: Elshabrawy Mohamed , Khaled Osama , Abbas Wael , Beshir Salah-Eldeen , Abdeen Mostafa
Published: August 2023

Background

Thermal diffusion of dusty fluids has valuable interference in various fields, including waste-water treatment, oil transportation, and power plant pipes. Dusty fluids are used in lots of industrial fields as a result of their improved heat transfer and heat management capabilities. These industries range from renewable energy systems to aerobic plastic sheet extrusion, manufacturing, and rolling and reaching metal sheet cooling.

Results

The work embodied in this paper presents the analytical solution performed to predict the effects of thermal diffusion on dusty, viscous, incompressible fluid flows between two porous, parallel vertical plates with a heat source or a heat sink. The mathematical equations are solved by the separation of variables and Laplace transform techniques. The influence of temperature is investigated for various values of Prandtl number and heat source or heat sink parameters. Also, the influences of various coefficients like the thermal diffusion coefficient, Schmidt number, Prandtl number, and heat source or heat sink coefficient on the concentration are observed. The fluid velocity distribution is graphically obtained. The solutions are discussed and exhibited graphically. The influences of the thermal diffusion parameter and chemical reaction parameter on fluid and dust particles’ velocities are examined. A parametric study on the effect of time on temperature and concentration is made.

Conclusions

The exact expressions for temperature, concentration, and velocity variation for fluid and dusty particles are obtained analytically. The temperature is inversely proportional to both the Prandtl number Pr and the heat source or heat sink parameter $$H_s$$

H
s

. The concentration of the fluid is inversely proportional to the thermal diffusion parameter Td and the heat source or heat sink parameter $$H_s$$

H
s

.
Key steps and suggestions for a promising approach to a critical care mentoring program
Authors: De Rosa Silvia , Battaglini Denise , Bennett Victoria , Rodriguez-Ruiz Emilio , Zaher Ahmed Mohamed Sabri , Galarza Laura , Schaller Stefan J. ,   on behalf of the NEXT Committee of the ESICM
Published: August 2023

In critical care medicine, where there is a demanding career with a problematic work-life balance, mentoring is an important support tool to grow professionally, creating a network of support throughout the career. The mentoring process consists of evidence-based steps to guide critical care mentors and mentees and pair them with each other according to the correct selection and matching of participants.

In order to focus on the active role of a young intensivist selected as a mentee at any level and to support their success in a mentoring relationship, the NEXT Committee of the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM) developed 2012 a mentoring program.

The critical steps of the mentoring program start from establishing a policy and program objectives, passing through the selection of participants, and matching with mentors up to the definition of the personal development plan supported by checklists, worksheets, and evaluation forms. The present manuscript provides key steps and tips for a good, essential based on our experience in the ESICM NEXT-Mentoring Program so that they guide for future mentoring programs conducted by other scientific societies. In addition, we discuss common challenges and how to avoid them.
Left ventricular pseudo-false aneurysm perforating the right ventricle: two case reports
Authors: Moriuchi Hiroki , Koide Masaaki , Kunii Yoshifumi , Tateishi Minori , Maeda Takuya , Sone Kumiko
Published: August 2023

Background

Left ventricular (LV) pseudo-false aneurysm is a rare and fatal complication secondary to myocardial infarction. Sometimes, it may perforate the right ventricle (RV) and lead to acute heart failure. We experienced 2 cases of surgical repair of an LV pseudo-false aneurysm perforating the RV.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 76-year-old man was referred to our hospital due to dyspnea. Echocardiography revealed an LV pseudo-false aneurysm (25 mm × 20 mm) that had perforated the RV. Via LV incision, the two small orifices communicating to the RV were detected and closed by direct suture. A double patch of bovine pericardium and a dacron sheet was sutured around the aneurysm with everting mattress. Case 2: A 51-year-old man, who had undergone percutaneous coronary intervention 1 month before, was referred to our hospital due to an LV aneurysm perforating the RV. Via LV incision, a double-layered patch was sutured around the aneurysm with everting mattress. The communicating hole to RV was closed by bovine pericardium patch with a running suture via an RV incision. Postoperative course was uneventful in both cases.

Conclusions

An LV pseudo-false aneurysm perforating the RV should be considered for urgent repair before serious complications arise and the patient’s general condition deteriorates.
Missing well-log reconstruction using a sequence self-attention deep-learning framework
Authors: Lin Lei , Wei Hao , Wu Tiantian , Zhang Pengyun , Zhong Zhi , Li Chenglong
Published: August 2023

Well logging is a critical tool for reservoir evaluation and fluid identification. However, due to borehole conditions, instrument failure, economic constraints, etc., some types of well logs are occasionally missing or unreliable. Existing logging curve reconstruction methods based on empirical formulas and fully connected deep neural networks (FCDNN) can only consider point-to-point mapping relationships. Recurrently structured neural networks can consider a multipoint correlation, but it is difficult to compute in parallel. To take into account the correlation between log sequences and achieve computational parallelism, we develop a novel deep-learning framework for missing well-log reconstruction based on state-of-the-art transformer architecture. The missing well-log transformer (MWLT) uses a self-attention mechanism instead of a circular recursive structure to model the global dependencies of the inputs and outputs. To use different usage requirements, we design the MWLT in three scales: small, base, and large, by adjusting the parameters in the network. A total of 8609 samples from 209 wells in the Sichuan Basin, China, are used for training and validation, and two additional blind wells are used for testing. The data augmentation strategy with random starting points is implemented to increase the robustness of the model. The results show that our proposed MWLT achieves a significant improvement in accuracy over the conventional Gardner’s equation and data-driven approaches such as FCDNN and bidirectional long short-term memory, on the validation data set and blind test wells. The MWLT-large and MWLT-base have lower prediction errors than MWLT-small but require more training time. Two wells in the Songliao Basin, China, are used to evaluate the cross-regional generalized performance of our method. The generalizability test results demonstrate that density logs reconstructed by MWLT remain the best match to the observed data compared with other methods. The parallelizable MWLT automatically learns the global dependence of the parameters of the subsurface reservoir, enabling an efficient missing well-log reconstruction performance.