bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multiplex PCR assay for the differentiation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex reveals high rates of mixed-lineage tuberculosis infections among patients in Ghana
Authors: Owusu Wellington , van Vliet Arnoud H. M. , Riddell Natalie E. , Stewart Graham , Akwani Winifred C. , Aryeetey Sherihane , Arthur Rejoice Agyeiwaa , Sylverken Augustina Angelina , Hingley-Wilson Suzanne M.
Published: April 2023

In low-resource settings with high tuberculosis (TB) burdens, lack of rapid diagnostic methods for detection and differentiation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) is a major challenge affecting TB management. This study utilized comparative genomic analyses of MTBC lineages; M. tuberculosis, M. africanum Lineages 5/6 and M. bovis to identify lineage-specific genes. Primers were designed for the development of a Multiplex PCR assay which was successful in differentiating the MTBC lineages. There was no cross-reaction with other respiratory pathogens tested. Validation of the assay using clinical samples was performed with sputum DNA extracts from 341 clinically confirmed active TB patients. It was observed that 24.9% of cases were caused by M. tuberculosis, while M. africanum L5 & L6 reported 9.0% and 14.4%, respectively. M. bovis infection was the least frequently detected lineage with 1.8%. Also, 27.0% and 17.0% of the cases were PCR negative and unspeciated, respectively. However, mixed-lineage TB infections were recorded at a surprising 5.9%. This multiplex PCR assay will allow speciation of MTBC lineages in low-resource regions, providing rapid differentiation of TB infections to select appropriate medication at the earliest possible time point. It will also be useful in epidemiological surveillance studies providing reliable information on the prevalence of TB lineages as well as identifying difficult to treat cases of mixed-lineage tuberculosis infections.
Proteotoxic stress response in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: Emerging role of heat shock factor 1
Authors: Ghai Shruti , Young Alex , Su Kuo-Hui
Published: April 2023

Atherosclerosis is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Hypercholesterolemia has been both clinically and experimentally linked to cardiovascular disease and is involved in the initiation of atherosclerosis. Heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) is involved in the control of atherosclerosis. HSF1 is a critical transcriptional factor of the proteotoxic stress response that regulates the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and other important activities such as lipid metabolism. Recently, HSF1 is reported to directly interact with and inhibit AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to promote lipogenesis and cholesterol synthesis. This review highlights roles of HSF1 and HSPs in critical metabolic pathways of atherosclerosis, including lipogenesis and proteome homeostasis.
Diabetes with kidney injury may change the abundance and cargo of urinary extracellular vesicles
Authors: Gu Dongfeng , Ding Yanan , Jiang Xin , Shen Beili , Musante Luca , Holthofer Harry , Zou Hequn
Published: April 2023

Background

Urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) are derived from epithelia facing the renal tubule lumen in the kidney and urogenital tract; they may carry protein biomarkers of renal dysfunction and structural injury. However, there are scarce studies focusing on uEVs in diabetes with kidney injury.

Materials and methods

A community-based epidemiological survey was performed, and the participants were randomly selected for our study. uEVs were enriched by dehydrated dialysis method, quantified by Coomassie Bradford protein assay, and adjusted by urinary creatinine (UCr). Then, they identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle track analysis (NTA), and western blot of tumor susceptibility gene 101.

Results

Decent uEVs with a homogeneous distribution were finally obtained, presenting a membrane-encapsulated structure like cup-shaped or roundish under TEM, having active Brownian motion, and presenting the main peak between 55 and 110 nm under NTA. The Bradford protein assay showed that the protein concentrations of uEVs were 0.02 ± 0.02, 0.04 ± 0.05, 0.05 ± 0.04, 0.07 ± 0.08, and 0.11 ± 0.15 μg/mg UCr, respectively, in normal controls and in prediabetes, diabetes with normal proteinuria, diabetes with microalbuminuria, and diabetes with macroproteinuria groups after adjusting the protein concentration with UCr by calculating the vesicles-to-creatinine ratio.

Conclusion

The protein concentration of uEVs in diabetes with kidney injury increased significantly than the normal controls before and after adjusting the UCr. Therefore, diabetes with kidney injury may change the abundance and cargo of uEVs, which may be involved in the physiological and pathological changes of diabetes.
The comparative effects of oral Chinese patent medicines in non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy: A Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Ziqiang , Chen Yunru , Jie Chuanhong , Wang Jianwei , Deng Yu , Hou Xiaoyu , Li Yuanyuan , Cai Wenjing
Published: April 2023

Background

Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), a common diabetic complication with high morbidity, is featured by impaired visual function and fundus lesions. It has been reported that oral Chinese patent medicines (OCPMs) may improve visual acuity and fund signs. However, the best possible OCPMs for NPDR remain questionable and merit further investigation.

Methods

From inception to October 20, 2022, seven databases were searched for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The outcomes were clinical effective rate, visual acuity, visual field gray value, microaneurysm volume, hemorrhage area, macular thickness, and adverse events rate. The revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (ROB 2) was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Network meta-analysis was performed using R 4.1.3 and STATA 15.0 software.

Results

We included 42 RCTs with 4,858 patients (5,978 eyes). The Compound Danshen Dripping Pill (CDDP) combined with calcium dobesilate (CD) had the most improvement in clinical efficacy rate (SUCRA, 88.58%). The Compound Xueshuantong Capsule (CXC) combined with CD may be the best intervention (SUCRA, 98.51%) for the improvement of visual acuity. CDDP alone may be the most effective treatment option (SUCRA, 91.83%) for improving visual field gray value. The Hexuemingmu Tablet (HXMMT) and Shuangdan Mingmu Capsule (SDMMC) combined with CD may be the most effective treatment for reducing microaneurysm volume and hemorrhage area (SUCRA, 94.48%, and 86.24%), respectively. Referring to reducing macular thickness, CXC combined with CD ranked first (SUCRA, 86.23%). Moreover, all OCPMs did not cause serious adverse reactions.

Conclusion

OCPMs are effective and safe for NPDR. CDDP alone, and combined with CD, may be the most effective in improving visual field gray value and clinical efficacy rate, respectively; CXC combined with CD may be the best in enhancing BCVA and reducing macular thickness; HXMMT and SDMMC combined with CD, maybe the most effective regarding microaneurysm volume and hemorrhage area, respectively. However, the reporting of methodology in the primary study is poor, potential biases may exist when synthesizing evidence and interpreting the results. The current findings need to be confirmed by more large-sample, double-blind, multi-center RCTs of rigorous design and robust methods in the future.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022367867.
Sustainable economic growth potential of biomass-enriched countries through bioenergy production: State-of-the-art assessment using product space model
Authors: Ayub Aqsa , Ali Shah Syed Fahad , Qyyum Muhammad Abdul , Habib Dur-e-Yab , Murtaza Malik Ashir , Rehan Mohammad , Tabatabaei Meisam , Aghbashlo Mortaza , Waqas Muhammad , Nizami Abdul-Sattar
Published: April 2023

The current study aims to examine the economically viable biomass feedstocks for bioenergy generation and their export potential. The Product Space Model (PSM) is the primary tool used to achieve the aim by accomplishing certain objectives. The study’s findings show that Pakistan has abundant biomass resources for energy production. Canola oil, leather flesh wastes, and poultry fattening show the highest PRODY values, 46,735, 44,438, and 41,791, respectively. These have high-income potential and are considered feasible for export after meeting local energy demand. While goat manure, cashew nutshell, and cotton stalk show lower income potential having values of 3,641, 4,225, and 4,421, respectively. The biowastes having low-income potential are more beneficial to utilize in energy generation plants within the country. The United States is observed to make the most sophisticated products, indicated by an EXPY value of 36296.89. While the minimum level of sophistication is observed for Indonesia, as revealed by its EXPY value of 22235.41 among all considered countries. The PSM policy map analysis of the current study shows that Pakistan and Argentina are located in the Parsimonious Policy quadrant, suggesting shifting toward unexploited products closely related to the existing export baskets. Although the United States, China, India, Indonesia, and Brazil are found in the most desired Let-it-be Policy quadrant. They have more room to diversify their industries and enhance their export potential. The study has practical applications in economic, social, and environmental perspectives, focusing on economic, clean, and sufficient energy. Furthermore, exportable biomass feedstocks are identified to strengthen the economy. Further research must be conducted to evaluate other indicators of the PSM to explore the proximity aspect of PSM, as it would provide a clearer picture of bioenergy and biomass export prospects.
Reliable machine learning for the shear strength of beams strengthened using externally bonded FRP jackets
Authors: Gasser Moamen , Mahmoud Omar , Elsayed Taha , Deifalla Ahmed
Published: April 2023

All over the world, shear strengthening of reinforced concrete elements using external fiber-reinforced polymer jackets could be used to improve building sustainability. However, reports issued by the American Concrete Institute called for heavy scrutiny before actual field implementation. The very limited number of proposed shear equations lacks reliability and accuracy. Thus, further investigation in this area is needed. In addition, machine-learning techniques are being implemented successfully to develop strength models for complex problems including shear, flexure, and torsion. This study aims to provide a reliable machine-learning model for reinforced concrete beams strengthened in shear using externally reinforced fiber polymer sheets. The proposed model was developed and validated against the experimental database and the very limited models in existing literature. The model showed better agreement with the experimentally measured strength compared to the previous models, which accounted for the effect of various parameters including but not limited to: the element geometry, strengthening details, and configurations. The model could guide the further developments of design codes and mechanical models.
Biological control of Fusarium crown rot of wheat with Chaetomium globosum 12XP1-2-3 and its effects on rhizosphere microorganisms
Authors: Feng Chaohong , Xu Fei , Li Lijuan , Zhang Jiaojiao , Wang Junmei , Li Yahong , Liu Lulu , Han Zihang , Shi Ruijie , Wan Xinru , Song Yuli
Published: April 2023

Chaetomium globosum is a common plant endophytic fungi that exhibits great biocontrol potential in plant disease. Fusarium crown rot (FCR) is an important disease in wheat that seriously threatens wheat production worldwide. The control effect of C. globosum against wheat FCR remains unclear. In this study, we introduced an identified C. globosum 12XP1-2-3 and tested its biological control potential against wheat FCR. The hypha and fermentation broth exhibited an antagonistic effect against Fusarium pseudograminearum. Results from indoor experiments showed that C. globosum 12XP1-2-3 might delay the onset of symptoms of brown stem base and significantly reduced the disease index (37.3%). Field trials showed that wheat seeds coated with a spore suspension of 12XP1-2-3 grew better than the control seeds, had control effects of 25.9–73.1% on FCR disease, and increased wheat yield by 3.2–11.9%. Analysis of rhizosphere microorganisms revealed that seeds coated with C. globosum (‘Cg’ treatment) had a greater effect on fungal rather than on bacterial alpha diversity and may improve the health state of rhizosphere microorganisms, as reflected by the significantly increased fungal Shannon index at Feekes 11 and the increased complexity of the bacterial co-occurrence network but decreased complexity of the fungal network. Moreover, the accumulation of beneficial bacteria such as Bacillus and Rhizobium at Feekes 3, and Sphingomonas at Feekes 7 in the ‘Cg’ treatment may be the important contributions to healthier wheat growth state, significantly reduced relative abundance of Fusarium at Feekes 11, and reduced occurrence of FCR disease. These results provide a basis for further research on the mechanism of action of C. globosum and its application in the biological control of FCR in the field.
Comparative efficacy of gait training for balance outcomes in patients with stroke: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Lyu Tianyi , Yan Kang , Lyu Jiaxuan , Zhao Xirui , Wang Ruoshui , Zhang Chaoyang , Liu Meng , Xiong Chao , Liu Chengjiang , Wei Yulong
Published: April 2023

Background

Growing evidence suggests that gait training can improve stroke patients’ balance outcomes. However, it remains unclear which type of gait training is more effective in improving certain types of balance outcomes in patients with stroke. Thus, this network meta-analysis (NMA) included six types of gait training (treadmill, body-weight-supported treadmill, virtual reality gait training, robotic-assisted gait training, overground walking training, and conventional gait training) and four types of balance outcomes (static steady-state balance, dynamic steady-state balance, proactive balance, and balance test batteries), aiming to compare the efficacy of different gait training on specific types of balance outcomes in stroke patients and determine the most effective gait training.

Method

We searched PubMed, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases from inception until 25 April 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of gait training for the treatment of balance outcomes after stroke were included. RoB2 was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis (NMA) was used to evaluate the effect of gait training on four categories of balance outcomes.

Result

A total of 61 RCTs from 2,551 citations, encompassing 2,328 stroke patients, were included in this study. Pooled results showed that body-weight-support treadmill (SMD = 0.30, 95% CI [0.01, 0.58]) and treadmill (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI [0.00, 0.49]) could improve the dynamic steady-state balance. Virtual reality gait training (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI [0.10, 0.71]) and body-weight-supported treadmill (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI [0.02, 0.80]) demonstrated better effects in improving balance test batteries. However, none of included gait training showed a significant effect on static steady-state balance and proactive balance.

Conclusion

Gait training is an effective treatment for improving stroke patients’ dynamic steady-state balance and balance test batteries. However, gait training had no significant effect on static steady-state balance and proactive balance. To achieve maximum efficacy, clinicians should consider this evidence when recommending rehabilitation training to stroke patients. Considering body-weight-supported treadmill is not common for chronic stroke patients in clinical practice, the treadmill is recommended for those who want to improve dynamic steady-state balance, and virtual reality gait training is recommended for those who want to improve balance test batteries.

Limitation

Missing evidence in relation to some types of gait training is supposed to be taken into consideration. Moreover, we fail to assess reactive balance in this NMA since few included trials reported this outcome.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022349965.
Patient perceptions of cognitive screening in adult audiology services: A qualitative exploration
Authors: Broome Emma E. , Tannirandorn Puntrika , Straus Jean , Beale Phoebe , Heffernan Eithne , Dening Tom , Henshaw Helen
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Both hearing loss and dementia are extremely pervasive, especially amongst older adults. As hearing loss and dementia have common symptoms, misdiagnosis can be common, and failure to address hearing loss for people with dementia could accelerate cognitive decline. The timely detection of cognitive impairment is clinically important, however the use of cognitive assessments in adult audiology services is a hotly debated topic. Although the early detection of cognitive impairment may improve patient care and quality of life, patients attending audiology services for hearing assessment might not expect to be asked questions about their cognition. The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore patient and public perspectives and preferences on the use of cognitive screening within adult audiology services.

Methods

Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from an online survey and a workshop. Descriptive statistics were applied to quantitative data and an inductive thematic analysis was performed on free-text responses.

Results

In total, 90 respondents completed the online survey. Overall, cognitive screening in audiology was reported to be acceptable to participants (92%). A reflexive thematic analysis of the qualitative data reported four themes: i) knowledge of cognitive impairment and screening, ii) implementation of cognitive screening, iii) impact of screening on patient and iv) contributions to future care and research. A workshop was held with five participants to discuss and reflect on the findings in more detail.

Discussion

Participants found cognitive screening to be acceptable within adult audiology services providing audiologists had suitable training, and sufficient explanation and justification were provided. However, implications such as additional time and staff resource and supplementary training for audiologists would be required to address participants concerns.
Associations between computed tomography markers of cerebral small vessel disease and hemorrhagic transformation after intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Zhan Zhenxiang , Xu Tong , Xu Ye , Fu Fangwang , Cheng Zicheng , Xia Lingfan , Wu Yucong , Xu Xuan , Cao Yungang , Han Zhao
Published: April 2023

Background

Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is common among acute ischemic stroke patients after treatment with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). We analyzed potential relationships between markers of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) and HT in patients after IVT.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed computed tomography (CT) data for acute ischemic stroke patients before and after treatment with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator at a large Chinese hospital between July 2014 and June 2021. Total CSVD score were summed by individual CSVD markers including leukoaraiosis, brain atrophy and lacune. Binary regression analysis was used to explore whether CSVD markers were related to HT as the primary outcome or to symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) as a secondary outcome.

Results

A total of 397 AIS patients treated with IVT were screened for inclusion in this study. Patients with missing laboratory data (n = 37) and patients treated with endovascular therapy (n = 42) were excluded. Of the 318 patients included, 54 (17.0%) developed HT within 24–36 h of IVT, and 14 (4.3%) developed sICH. HT risk was independently associated with severe brain atrophy (OR 3.14, 95%CI 1.43–6.92, P = 0.004) and severe leukoaraiosis (OR 2.41, 95%CI 1.05–5.50, P = 0.036), but not to severe lacune level (OR 0.58, 95%CI 0.23–1.45, P = 0.250). Patients with a total CSVD burden ≥1 were at higher risk of HT (OR 2.87, 95%CI 1.38–5.94, P = 0.005). However, occurrence of sICH was not predicted by CSVD markers or total CSVD burden.

Conclusion

In patients with acute ischemic stroke, severe leukoaraiosis, brain atrophy and total CSVD burden may be risk factors for HT after IVT. These findings may help improve efforts to mitigate or even prevent HT in vulnerable patients.
Drosophila melanogaster as a model to study age and sex differences in brain injury and neurodegeneration after mild head trauma
Authors: Ye Changtian , Behnke Joseph A. , Hardin Katherine R. , Zheng James Q.
Published: April 2023

Repetitive physical insults to the head, including those that elicit mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), are a known risk factor for a variety of neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Although most individuals who sustain mTBI typically achieve a seemingly full recovery within a few weeks, a subset experience delayed-onset symptoms later in life. As most mTBI research has focused on the acute phase of injury, there is an incomplete understanding of mechanisms related to the late-life emergence of neurodegeneration after early exposure to mild head trauma. The recent adoption of Drosophila-based brain injury models provides several unique advantages over existing preclinical animal models, including a tractable framework amenable to high-throughput assays and short relative lifespan conducive to lifelong mechanistic investigation. The use of flies also provides an opportunity to investigate important risk factors associated with neurodegenerative conditions, specifically age and sex. In this review, we survey current literature that examines age and sex as contributing factors to head trauma-mediated neurodegeneration in humans and preclinical models, including mammalian and Drosophila models. We discuss similarities and disparities between human and fly in aging, sex differences, and pathophysiology. Finally, we highlight Drosophila as an effective tool for investigating mechanisms underlying head trauma-induced neurodegeneration and for identifying therapeutic targets for treatment and recovery.
Measurement of diets that are healthy, environmentally sustainable, affordable, and equitable: A scoping review of metrics, findings, and research gaps
Authors: Webb Patrick , Livingston Staffier Kara , Lee Hyomin , Howell Brian , Battaglia Kyra , Bell Brooke M. , Matteson Julia , McKeown Nicola M. , Cash Sean B. , Zhang Fang Fang , Decker Sparks Jessica L. , Blackstone Nicole Tichenor
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Research on the impacts of dietary patterns on human and planetary health is a rapidly growing field. A wide range of metrics, datasets, and analytical techniques has been used to explore the role of dietary choices/constraints in driving greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, environmental degradation, health and disease outcomes, and the affordability of food baskets. Many argue that each domain is important, but few have tackled all simultaneously in analyzing diet-outcome relationships.

Methods

This paper reviews studies published between January 2015 and December 2021 (inclusive) that examined dietary patterns in relation to at least two of the following four thematic pillars: (i) planetary health, including, climate change, environmental quality, and natural resource impacts, (ii) human health and disease, (iii) economic outcomes, including diet cost/affordability, and (iv) social outcomes, e.g., wages, working conditions, and culturally relevant diets. We systematically screened 2,425 publications by title and abstract and included data from 42 eligible publications in this review.

Results

Most dietary patterns used were statistically estimated or simulated rather than observed. A rising number of studies consider the cost/affordability of dietary scenarios in relation to optimized environmental and health outcomes. However, only six publications incorporate social sustainability outcomes, which represents an under-explored dimension of food system concerns.

Discussion

This review suggests a need for (i) transparency and clarity in datasets used and analytical methods; (ii) explicit integration of indicators and metrics linking social and economic issues to the commonly assessed diet-climate-planetary ecology relationships; (iii) inclusion of data and researchers from low- and middle-income countries; (iv) inclusion of processed food products to reflect the reality of consumer choices globally; and (v) attention to the implications of findings for policymakers. Better understanding is urgently needed on dietary impacts on all relevant human and planetary domains simultaneously.
Towards a New 3Rs Era in the construction of 3D cell culture models simulating tumor microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Long , Liao Weiqi , Chen Shimin , Chen Yukun , Cheng Pengrui , Lu Xinjun , Ma Yi
Published: April 2023

Three-dimensional cell culture technology (3DCC) sits between two-dimensional cell culture (2DCC) and animal models and is widely used in oncology research. Compared to 2DCC, 3DCC allows cells to grow in a three-dimensional space, better simulating the in vivo growth environment of tumors, including hypoxia, nutrient concentration gradients, micro angiogenesis mimicism, and the interaction between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment matrix. 3DCC has unparalleled advantages when compared to animal models, being more controllable, operable, and convenient. This review summarizes the comparison between 2DCC and 3DCC, as well as recent advances in different methods to obtain 3D models and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Comparison of molecular surveillance methods to assess changes in the population genetics of Plasmodium falciparum in high transmission
Authors: Ghansah Anita , Tiedje Kathryn E. , Argyropoulos Dionne C. , Onwona Christiana O. , Deed Samantha L. , Labbé Frédéric , Oduro Abraham R. , Koram Kwadwo A. , Pascual Mercedes , Day Karen P.
Published: April 2023

A major motivation for developing molecular methods for malaria surveillance is to measure the impact of control interventions on the population genetics of Plasmodium falciparum as a potential marker of progress towards elimination. Here we assess three established methods (i) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) barcoding (panel of 24-biallelic loci), (ii) microsatellite genotyping (panel of 12-multiallelic loci), and (iii) varcoding (fingerprinting var gene diversity, akin to microhaplotyping) to identify changes in parasite population genetics in response to a short-term indoor residual spraying (IRS) intervention. Typical of high seasonal transmission in Africa, multiclonal infections were found in 82.3% (median 3; range 1-18) and 57.8% (median 2; range 1-12) of asymptomatic individuals pre- and post-IRS, respectively, in Bongo District, Ghana. Since directly phasing multilocus haplotypes for population genetic analysis is not possible for biallelic SNPs and microsatellites, we chose ~200 low-complexity infections biased to single and double clone infections for analysis. Each genotyping method presented a different pattern of change in diversity and population structure as a consequence of variability in usable data and the relative polymorphism of the molecular markers (i.e., SNPs < microsatellites < var). Varcoding and microsatellite genotyping showed the overall failure of the IRS intervention to significantly change the population structure from pre-IRS characteristics (i.e., many diverse genomes of low genetic similarity). The 24-SNP barcode provided limited information for analysis, largely due to the biallelic nature of SNPs leading to a high proportion of double-allele calls and a view of more isolate relatedness compared to microsatellites and varcoding. Relative performance, suitability, and cost-effectiveness of the methods relevant to sample size and local malaria elimination in high-transmission endemic areas are discussed.
Comprehensive analysis of the cuproptosis-related gene DLD across cancers: A potential prognostic and immunotherapeutic target
Authors: Yang Weiguang , Guo Qiang , Wu Haiyang , Tong Linjian , Xiao Jian , Wang Yulin , Liu Rui , Xu Lixia , Yan Hua , Sun Zhiming
Published: April 2023

DLD is a key gene involved in “cuproptosis,” but its roles in tumor progression and immunity remain unclear. Exploring the potential mechanisms and biological roles of DLD may provide new insights for therapeutic strategies for tumors. In the present study, we analyzed the role of DLD in a variety of tumors by using several bioinformatic tools. The results showed that compared with normal tissues, tumor tissues representing multiple cancers showed significant differential expression of DLD. High DLD expression was associated with a good prognosis in BRCA, KICH, and LUAD. Conversely, high expression levels of DLD were detrimental to patient prognosis in many other tumors, such as COAD, KIRC, and KIRP. In addition, the associations of DLD with infiltrating immune cells, genetic alterations and methylation levels across cancers were assessed. Aberrant expression of DLD was positively correlated with most infiltrating immune cells, especially neutrophils. The DLD methylation level was significantly decreased in COAD, LIHC, and LUSC but significantly increased in BRCA. DLD had the highest mutation rate (6.04%) in ESCA. In LUSC, patients with genetic alterations in DLD showed a poorer prognosis. At the single-cell level, the roles of DLD in regulating cancer-associated biological functions, such as metastasis, inflammation, and differentiation, were explored. Afterward, we further investigated whether several disease-associated genes could be correlated with DLD. GO enrichment analysis indicated that DLD-related genes were mainly associated with mitochondria-related cellular components, aerobic respiration and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Finally, the correlations between DLD expression and immunomodulatory genes, immune checkpoints, and sensitivity to some antitumor drugs were investigated. It is worth noting that DLD expression was positively correlated with immune checkpoint genes and immunomodulatory genes in most cancers. In conclusion, this study comprehensively analyzed the differential expression, prognostic value and immune cell infiltration-related function of DLD across cancers. Our results suggest that DLD has great potential to serve as a candidate marker for pancancer prognosis and immunotherapy and may provide a new direction for cancer treatment development.
Migration risk of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) from North Africa to Southern Europe
Authors: Wang Jing , Huang Yanru , Huang Linsheng , Dong Yingying , Huang Wenjiang , Ma Huiqin , Zhang Hansu , Zhang Xueyan , Chen Xinyu , Xu Yunlei
Published: April 2023

With the development of globalization and agriculture trade, as well as its own strong migratory capacity, fall armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda) (J.E. Smith) has invaded more than 70 countries, posing a serious threat to the production of major crops in these areas. FAW has now also been detected in Egypt in North Africa, putting Europe, which is separated from it only by the Mediterranean Sea, at high risk of invasion. Therefore, this study integrated multiple factors of insect source, host plant, and environment to provide a risk analysis of the potential trajectories and time periods of migration of FAW into Europe in 2016~2022. First, the CLIMEX model was used to predict the annual and seasonal suitable distribution of FAW. The HYSPLIT numerical trajectory model was then used to simulate the possibility of the FAW invasion of Europe through wind-driven dispersal. The results showed that the risk of FAW invasion between years was highly consistent (P<0.001). Coastal areas were most suitable for the expansion of the FAW, and Spain and Italy had the highest risk of invasion, with 39.08% and 32.20% of effective landing points respectively. Dynamic migration prediction based on spatio-temporal data can enable early warning of FAW, which is important for joint multinational pest management and crop protection.
Pressure injury prevalence and characteristics in patients with COVID-19 admitted to acute inpatient rehabilitation unit
Authors: Lu Weiying , Bloom Ona , Rathgeber Melissa , Maltser Susan
Published: April 2023

Objective

To investigate the incidence and severity of pressure injuries among COVID-19 patients who required acute hospitalization and subsequent acute inpatient rehabilitation (AIR).

Design

Data was collected retrospectively from medical charts of COVID-19 patients who were admitted to AIR during April 2020–April 2021.

Setting

Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation at a single hospital in the greater New York metropolitan area.

Participants

Subjects included COVID-19 patients (N = 120) who required acute hospitalization and subsequent acute inpatient rehabilitation, of whom 39 (32.5%) had pressure injuries.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main outcome measure(s)

The incidence, location, and severity of pressure injuries in COVID-19 patients, as well as demographic and clinical characteristics of the acute hospitalization.

Results

Among patients who developed pressure injuries, more patients received mechanical ventilation (59% vs. 33%, P < 0.05) and tracheostomy (67% vs. 17%, P < 0.00001). The lengths of stay were longer in both the intensive care unit (ICU) (34 vs. 15 days, P < 0.005), and in acute inpatient rehabilitation (22 vs. 17 days P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Pressure injuries were more common in COVID-19 patients who had longer lengths of stay, received mechanical ventilation or tracheostomy, during acute hospitalization. This supports the use of protocols to prioritize pressure offloading in this patient population.
Biomolecular Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation for Biotechnology
Authors: Shil Sumit , Tsuruta Mitsuki , Kawauchi Keiko , Miyoshi Daisuke
Published: April 2023

The liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) of biomolecules induces condensed assemblies called liquid droplets or membrane-less organelles. In contrast to organelles with lipid membrane barriers, the liquid droplets induced by LLPS do not have distinct barriers (lipid bilayer). Biomolecular LLPS in cells has attracted considerable attention in broad research fields from cellular biology to soft matter physics. The physical and chemical properties of LLPS exert a variety of functions in living cells: activating and deactivating biomolecules involving enzymes; controlling the localization, condensation, and concentration of biomolecules; the filtration and purification of biomolecules; and sensing environmental factors for fast, adaptive, and reversible responses. The versatility of LLPS plays an essential role in various biological processes, such as controlling the central dogma and the onset mechanism of pathological diseases. Moreover, biomolecular LLPS could be critical for developing new biotechnologies such as the condensation, purification, and activation of a series of biomolecules. In this review article, we introduce some fundamental aspects and recent progress of biomolecular LLPS in living cells and test tubes. Then, we discuss applications of biomolecular LLPS toward biotechnologies.
Quantum–Classical Hybrid Systems and Ehrenfest’s Theorem
Authors: Sergi Alessandro , Lamberto Daniele , Migliore Agostino , Messina Antonino
Published: April 2023

The conceptual analysis of quantum mechanics brings to light that a theory inherently consistent with observations should be able to describe both quantum and classical systems, i.e., quantum–classical hybrids. For example, the orthodox interpretation of measurements requires the transient creation of quantum–classical hybrids. Despite its limitations in defining the classical limit, Ehrenfest’s theorem makes the simplest contact between quantum and classical mechanics. Here, we generalized the Ehrenfest theorem to bipartite quantum systems. To study quantum–classical hybrids, we employed a formalism based on operator-valued Wigner functions and quantum–classical brackets. We used this approach to derive the form of the Ehrenfest theorem for quantum–classical hybrids. We found that the time variation of the average energy of each component of the bipartite system is equal to the average of the symmetrized quantum dissipated power in both the quantum and the quantum–classical case. We expect that these theoretical results will be useful both to analyze quantum–classical hybrids and to develop self-consistent numerical algorithms for Ehrenfest-type simulations.
Adversarial Decision-Making for Moving Target Defense: A Multi-Agent Markov Game and Reinforcement Learning Approach
Authors: Yao Qian , Wang Yongjie , Xiong Xinli , Wang Peng , Li Yang
Published: April 2023

Reinforcement learning has shown a great ability and has defeated human beings in the field of real-time strategy games. In recent years, reinforcement learning has been used in cyberspace to carry out automated and intelligent attacks. Traditional defense methods are not enough to deal with this problem, so it is necessary to design defense agents to counter intelligent attacks. The interaction between the attack agent and the defense agent can be modeled as a multi-agent Markov game. In this paper, an adversarial decision-making approach that combines the Bayesian Strong Stackelberg and the WoLF algorithms was proposed to obtain the equilibrium point of multi-agent Markov games. With this method, the defense agent can obtain the adversarial decision-making strategy as well as continuously adjust the strategy in cyberspace. As verified in experiments, the defense agent should attach importance to short-term rewards in the process of a real-time game between the attack agent and the defense agent. The proposed approach can obtain the largest rewards for defense agent compared with the classic Nash-Q and URS-Q algorithms. In addition, the proposed approach adjusts the action selection probability dynamically, so that the decision entropy of optimal action gradually decreases.
A Review of Energy Management Systems and Organizational Structures of Prosumers
Authors: Mišljenović Nemanja , Žnidarec Matej , Knežević Goran , Šljivac Damir , Sumper Andreas
Published: April 2023

This review provides the state of the art of energy management systems (EMS) and organizational structures of prosumers. Integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into the household brings new challenges in optimal operation, power quality, participation in the electricity market and power system stability. A common solution to these challenges is to develop an EMS with different prosumer organizational structures. EMS development is a multidisciplinary process that needs to involve several aspects of observation. This paper provides an overview of the prosumer organizational and control structures, types and elements, prediction methods of input parameters, optimization frameworks, optimization methods, objective functions, constraints and the market environment. Special attention is given to the optimization framework and prediction of input parameters, which represents room for improvement, that mitigate the impact of uncertainties associated with RES-based generation, consumption and market prices on optimal operation.
Heat Transfer Analysis of Sisko Fluid Flow over a Stretching Sheet in a Conducting Field with Newtonian Heating and Constant Heat Flux
Authors: Jayalakshmi Pothala , Obulesu Mopuri , Ganteda Charan Kumar , Raju Malaraju Changal , Varma Sibyala Vijayakumar , Lorenzini Giulio
Published: April 2023

The present study investigates the steady three-dimensional flow of a Sisko fluid over a bidirectional stretching sheet under the influence of Lorentz force. Heat transfer effects have been carried out for constant heat flux and Newtonian heating systems. The transformed governing equations of the flow model are solved by using the spectral relaxation method (SRM), taking into account similarity transformations. The effects of controlling parameters on flow and derived quantities have been presented in the form of graphs and tables. Numerical benchmarks are used to characterise the effects of skin friction and heat transfer rates. It is noticed that in the case of Newtonian heating, the rate of heat transfer is higher than that in the constant heat flux case. As the stretching parameter increases, the fluid temperature decreases in both Newtonian heating and constant heat flux. It was discovered that successive over (under) relaxation (SOR) approaches will considerably boost the convergence speed and stability of the SRM system. The current findings strongly agree with earlier studies in the case of Newtonian fluid when the magnetic field is absent.
Review on Mono and Hybrid Nanofluids: Preparation, Properties, Investigation, and Applications in IC Engines and Heat Transfer
Authors: Bhattad Atul , Atgur Vinay , Rao Boggarapu , Banapurmath N. , Yunus Khan T. , Vadlamudi Chandramouli , Krishnappa Sanjay , Sajjan A. , Shankara R. , Ayachit N.
Published: April 2023

Nano fluids are widely used today for various energy-related applications such as coolants, refrigerants, and fuel additives. New coolants and design modifications are being explored due to renewed interest in improving the working fluid properties of heat exchangers. Several studies have investigated nanofluids to enhance radiator and heat exchanger performance. A new class of coolants includes single, binary, and tertiary nanoparticle-based hybrid nano-coolants using ethylene glycol/deionized water combinations as base fluids infused with different nanoparticles. This review article focuses on the hydrothermal behavior of heat exchangers (radiators for engine applications) with mono/hybrid nanofluids. The first part of the review focuses on the preparation of hybrid nanofluids, highlighting the working fluid properties such as density, viscosity, specific heat, and thermal conductivity. The second part discusses innovative methodologies adopted for accomplishing higher heat transfer rates with relatively low-pressure drop and pump work. The third part discusses the applications of mono and hybrid nanofluids in engine radiators and fuel additives in diesel and biodiesel blends. The last part is devoted to a summary of the research and future directions using mono and hybrid nanofluids for various cooling applications.
Grid Interconnection Modeling of Inverter Based Resources (IBR) Plant for Transient Analysis
Authors: Das Himadry Shekhar , Li Shuhui , Rahman Shahinur
Published: April 2023

The increase in penetration levels of inverter-based resources (IBRs) is changing the dynamic performance of power grids of different parts of the world. IBRs are now being more and more integrated into the grid at a single connection point as an IBR plant. Due to the complex nature and dynamicity of each inverter model, it is not realistic to build and analyze full complex models of each inverter in the IBR plant. Moreover, simulating a large plant including detailed models of all the IBRs would require high computing resources as well as a long simulation time. This has been the main issue addressed in the new IEEE Std 2800-2022. This paper proposes a novel approach to model an IBR plant, which can capture the transient nature at the plant level, detailed IBR control at the inverter level, interactions of multiple IBR groups in a plant structure, and a collector system connecting the IBRs to the grid. The IBRs in the plant use a voltage source inverter topology combined with a grid-connected filter. The control structure of the IBR includes a cascaded loop control where an inner current control and outer power control are designed in the dq-reference frame, and a closed-loop phase-locked loop is used for the grid synchronization. The mathematical study is conducted first to develop aggregated plant models considering different operating scenarios of active IBRs in an IBR plant. Then, an electromagnetic transient simulation (EMT) model of the plant is developed to investigate the plant’s dynamic performance under different operating scenarios. The performance of the aggregated plant model is compared with that of a detailed plant model to prove the effectiveness of the proposed strategy. The results show that the aggregated EMT simulation model provides almost the same result as the detailed model from the plant perspective while the running time/computation burden is much lower.
A Novel E3 Probiotics Formula Restored Gut Dysbiosis and Remodelled Gut Microbial Network and Microbiome Dysbiosis Index (MDI) in Southern Chinese Adult Psoriasis Patients
Authors: Choy Chi Tung , Chan Un Kei , Siu Pui Ling Kella , Zhou Junwei , Wong Chi Ho , Lee Yuk Wai , Chan Ho Wang , Tsui Joseph Chi Ching , Loo Steven King Fan , Tsui Stephen Kwok Wing
Published: April 2023

Psoriasis is a common chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease with the association of various comorbidities. Despite the introduction of highly effective biologic therapies over the past few decades, the exact trigger for an immune reaction in psoriasis is unclear. With the majority of immune cells residing in the gut, the effect of gut microbiome dysbiosis goes beyond the gastrointestinal site and may exacerbate inflammation and regulate the immune system elsewhere, including but not limited to the skin via the gut-skin axis. In order to delineate the role of the gut microbiome in Southern Chinese psoriasis patients, we performed targeted 16S rRNA sequencing and comprehensive bioinformatic analysis to compare the gut microbiome profile of 58 psoriasis patients against 49 healthy local subjects presumably with similar lifestyles. Blautia wexlerae and Parabacteroides distasonis were found to be enriched in psoriasis patients and in some of the healthy subjects, respectively. Metabolic functional pathways were predicted to be differentially abundant, with a clear shift toward SCFA synthesis in healthy subjects. The alteration of the co-occurrence network was also evident in the psoriasis group. In addition, we also profiled the gut microbiome in 52 of the 58 recruited psoriasis patients after taking 8 weeks of an orally administrated novel E3 probiotics formula (with prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics). The Dermatological Life Quality Index (p = 0.009) and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (p < 0.001) were significantly improved after taking 8 weeks of probiotics with no adverse effect observed. We showed that probiotics could at least partly restore gut dysbiosis via the modulation of the gut microbiome. Here, we also report the potential application of a machine learning-derived gut dysbiosis index based on a quantitative PCR panel (AUC = 0.88) to monitor gut dysbiosis in psoriasis patients. To sum up, our study suggests the gut microbial landscape differed in psoriasis patients at the genera, species, functional and network levels. Additionally, the dysbiosis index could be a cost-effective and rapid tool to monitor probiotics use in psoriasis patients.