bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disulfidptosis-related genes serve as potential prognostic biomarkers and indicate tumor microenvironment characteristics and immunotherapy response in prostate cancer
Authors: zhou rongbin , Lu Dingjin , Mi Junhao , Wang Chengbang , Lu Wenhao , Wang Zuheng , Li Xiao , Wei Chunmeng , Zhang Huiyong , Ji Jin , Zhang Yifeng , Zhang Duobing , Wang Fubo
Published: March 2024

Disulfidptosis, a novel programmed cell death pathway identified in prostate cancer (PCa), is intricately linked to intracellular disulfide stress and glycolysis. This research sought to elucidate the expression patterns and prognostic significance of disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) in PCa. We analyzed PCa datasets from TCGA, GEO, and MSKCC, accounting for batch effects and standardizing data. Using consistent cluster analysis, we categorized samples into subtypes based on 24 DRGs. Further, we employed univariate and LASSO regression analyses to construct a DRG-based risk score model. Its predictive accuracy was confirmed through Kaplan-Meier and ROC analyses. We also developed and validated prognostic nomograms for forecasting 1-, 3-, and 5-year progression-free survival, integrating risk scores with clinical factors, yielding area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.895, 0.825, and 0.768, respectively. This risk score model effectively stratified PCa patients into high- and low-risk groups. Utilizing the CIBERSORT algorithm, we explored the association between risk score and immune cell infiltration, and examined the tumor microenvironment and somatic mutations in different risk groups. Additionally, we investigated immunotherapy responses and drug sensitivities, uncovering significant links between DRG risk scores, clinical features, tumor microenvironment, and treatment outcomes. Notably, we identified PROK1 as a crucial prognostic marker in PCa, with its reduced expression correlating with disease progression. In summary, our study comprehensively assessed the clinical implications of DRGs in PCa progression and prognosis, offering vital insights for tailored precision medicine approaches.
Nonpathogenic E. coli engineered to surface display cytokines as a new platform for immunotherapy
Authors: Romee Rizwan , Yang Shaobo , Sheffer Michal , Kaplan Isabel , Wang Zongqi , Tarannum Mubin , Dinh Khanhlinh , Abdulhamid Yasmin , Shapiro Roman , Porter Rebecca , Soiffer Robert , Ritz Jerome , Koreth John , Wei Yun , Chen Peiru , Zhang Ke , Márquez-Pellegrin Valeria , Bonanno Shanna , Joshi Neel , Guan Ming , Yang Mengdi , Li Deng , Bellini Chiara , Chen Jianzhu , Wu Catherine , Barbie David , Li Jiahe
Published: March 2024

Given the safety, tumor tropism, and ease of genetic manipulation in non-pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli), we designed a novel approach to deliver biologics to overcome poor trafficking and exhaustion of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, via the surface display of key immune-activating cytokines on the outer membrane of E. coli K-12 DH5α. Bacteria expressing murine decoy-resistant IL18 mutein (DR18) induced robust CD8+ T and NK cell-dependent immune responses leading to dramatic tumor control, extending survival, and curing a significant proportion of immune-competent mice with colorectal carcinoma and melanoma. The engineered bacteria demonstrated tumor tropism, while the abscopal and recall responses suggested epitope spreading and induction of immunologic memory. E. coli K-12 DH5α engineered to display human DR18 potently activated mesothelin-targeting CAR NK cells and safely enhanced their trafficking into the tumors, leading to improved control and survival in xenograft mice bearing mesothelioma tumor cells, otherwise resistant to NK cells. Gene expression analysis of the bacteria-primed CAR NK cells showed enhanced TNFα signaling via NFκB and upregulation of multiple activation markers. Our novel live bacteria-based immunotherapeutic platform safely and effectively induces potent anti-tumor responses in otherwise hard-to-treat solid tumors, motivating further evaluation of this approach in the clinic.
Elevated fecal calprotectin is associated with gut microbial dysbiosis, altered serum markers and clinical outcomes in older individuals
Authors: Heinzel Sebastian , Jureczek Jenna , Kainulainen Veera , Nieminen Anni I. , Suenkel Ulrike , von Thaler Anna-Katharina , Kaleta Christoph , Eschweiler Gerhard W. , Brockmann Kathrin , Aho Velma T. E. , Auvinen Petri , Maetzler Walter , Berg Daniela , Scheperjan Filip
Published: March 2024

Fecal calprotectin is an established marker of gut inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Elevated levels of fecal calprotectin as well as gut microbial dysbiosis have also been observed in other clinical conditions. However, systemic and multi-omics alterations linked to elevated fecal calprotectin in older individuals remain unclear. This study comprehensively investigated the relationship between fecal calprotectin levels, gut microbiome composition, serum inflammation and targeted metabolomics markers, and relevant lifestyle and medical data in a large cohort of older individuals (n = 735; mean age ± SD: 68.7 ± 6.3) from the TREND study. Low (0–50 µg/g; n = 602), moderate (> 50–100 µg/g; n = 64) and high (> 100 µg/g; n = 62) fecal calprotectin groups were stratified. Several pro-inflammatory gut microbial genera were significantly increased and short-chain fatty acid producing genera were decreased in high vs. low calprotectin groups. In serum, IL-17C, CCL19 and the toxic metabolite indoxyl sulfate were increased in high vs. low fecal calprotectin groups. These changes were partially mediated by gut microbiota. Moreover, the high calprotectin group showed increased BMI and more frequent disease prevalence of heart attack and obesity. Our findings contribute to the understanding of fecal calprotectin as a marker of gut dysbiosis and its broader systemic and clinical implications in older individuals.
Integrated Analysis of Single-Cell RNA Sequencing and Transcriptome Data Identifies a Pyroptosis-Associated Diagnostic Model for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Wang Lin , Qin Yidan , Song Jia , Xu Jing , Quan Wei , Su Hang , Zeng Huibin , Zhang Jian , Li Jia , Chen Jiajun
Published: March 2024

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by insidious onset. Despite the emphasis on motor symptom-based diagnosis, there remains an unmet clinical need for effective diagnostic approaches during the prodromal phase of PD. Recent advancements in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and transcriptomic analyses of PD patients open avenues for identifying potential diagnostic biomarkers.
Methods: A comprehensive cell trajectory analysis was conducted using scRNA-seq datasets to pinpoint gene expressions associated with cellular transition from healthy to PD-affiliated state. Integrating the scRNA-seq datasets with Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) allowed the extraction of pyroptosis-associated differentially expressed genes (PDEGs). Leveraging LASSO logistic regression, Support Vector Machine-Recursive Feature Elimination (SVM-RFE), and random forest methodologies, we devised a diagnostic model centered on PDEGs. Additionally, immunoinfiltration, inflammatory signaling pathways, and intercellular communication were discerned through scRNA-seq analyses.
Results: In PD patients, the number of cells including metencephalic-like cells, excitatory neurons, inhibitory neurons, and MHB-like cells were significantly reduced, whereas the proportion of astrocytes and microglia, the immunoinfiltration and inflammatory signaling pathways were upregulated as compared with healthy individuals. Using scRNA-seq and WGCNA analyses, two pyroptosis-related diagnostic genes POLR2K and TIMM8B were identified, and a diagnostic model based on them was constructed, which showed promising performance upon validation.
Conclusion: This study cleverly established a pyroptosis-related diagnostic model for PD through the analyses of scRNA-seq combined with transcriptome data, which improved the understanding of the role of PDEGs in PD and provided new insights into the diagnostic strategies for this neurodegenerative ailment.
Investigation of dynamic postural control in athletes with and without chronic ankle instability accompanied by high and low levels of kinesiophobia during jump landing: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Jafari Sarah , Naimi Sedigheh Sadat , Ebrahimabadi Zahra , Yousefi Mohammad , Mortezanejad Marzieh , Shanbehzadeh Sanaz
Published: March 2024

Background
Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) commonly experience pain, swelling, giving way, and postural instability. It has been observed that they exhibit a certain level of fear of movement, which impacts their postural stability. The degree of fear of movement can be assessed using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), ranging from low to high levels. Dysfunction in postural control can be influenced by this fear of movement. In the present study, researchers compared the dynamic postural control characteristics during jump landing between CAI athletes with low and high levels of kinesiophobia and healthy controls.
Methods
Sixty participants with CAI were divided into three groups: CAI subjects with low kinesiophobia, CAI subjects with high kinesiophobia (determined by a cutoff of 38 in TSK score), and healthy controls. The participants performed a single-leg jump landing on a force plate, either on the side of the unstable ankle for CAI subjects or on the matching ankle for healthy controls. Time to stabilization (TTS), center of pressure displacement (COP), velocity of COP displacement in anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) directions, as well as the total direction, were calculated for further analysis as outcome measures. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance, with a significance level set at 0.05 for each analysis.
Results
The study's results revealed that the time to stability in the AP and total direction exhibited the most significant difference between the high kinesiophobia group and the healthy control groups (P = 0.019, P = 0.00 respectively). Additionally, CAI subjects with high kinesiophobia demonstrated a significant increase in the standard deviation of COP velocity in the AP direction (P = 0.002), a significant decrease in COP velocity variability in the ML direction (P = 0.002), and a significant increase in COP displacement variability in the ML direction compared to healthy controls (P = 0.006).
Conclusions
Individuals with high fear of re-injury may perceive the jumping landing task as threatening, requiring more time to land and regain stability. This fear can limit the variability of velocity in the ML direction, leading to reduced control over the AP direction due to constraints on controlling degrees of freedom.
The Single-cell Atlas of Short-chain Fatty Acid Receptors in Human and Mice Hearts
Authors: He Xiaojun , Long Qiang , Zhong Yiming , Qi Zhaoxi , Zhang Yecen , Qian Bei , Huang Shixing , Wang Xinming , Yang Xiaomei , Gao Wei Dong , Ye Xiaofeng , Zhao Qiang
Published: March 2024

The short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), the product of dietary fiber fermentation by the gut microbiota, can protect against multiple cardiovascular diseases, while the molecular targets and underlying mechanisms need to be elucidated. One of the primary mechanisms of SCFA benefits was the direct activation of a group of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), termed free fatty acid receptors (FFARs), the FFAR2 (GPR43), and FFAR3 (GPR41). GPCRs serve as key regulators of a variety of intracellular responses and enable the design of highly selective novel drugs with reduced unwanted side effects. This needs an understanding of the heterogeneous distribution of GPCRs across multiple cell types and their overlapping signaling networks. At present, the distribution of FFAR2/3 in cardiac cells has not been entirely clarified. Using the public single-cell RNA-seq and single-nuclear RNA-seq data of human and mouse hearts, we illustrate the entire atlas of FFAR2/3 distribution in different regions and cell types in normal and infarcted hearts. These findings provide valuable information on the possible effect of SCFAs via FFAR2/3 in the heart and valuable references for future studies.
Anti-seasonal flooding drive substantial alterations in riparian plant diversity and niche characteristics in a unique hydro-fluctuation zone
Authors: Li Xiaoling , Yi Wenxiong , Duan Xiaodie , Chen Gong , Yang Jin , Deng Danli , Guo Xiaojuan , Yang Zhengjian , Huang Guiyun , Hu Meixiang , Ye Chen
Published: March 2024

Human-induced disturbances such as dam construction and regulation often alter the duration，frequency and seasonality of flooding and thus substantially influence plant characteristics in the hydro-fluctuation zones. However, the effect mechanism of anti-seasonal hydrological alterations on vegetation distribution patterns and niche characteristics in the water level fluctuation zones (WLFZs).is still unclear. In this study, 368 quadrats were selected to investigate the effects of the anti-seasonal hydrological regimes on the foristic composition, species diversity and niche characteristic in the hydro-fluctuation zone of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR), a unique riparian ecosystem, China. The results showed that the number of species per square meter (S), the Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H) and Simpson dominance index (D) of the plant guilds in the TGR increased significantly with elevation, which was inconsistent with humped diversity–disturbance relationship of the intermediate disturbance hypothesis, while the opposite trend was observed for the Pielou evenness index (E). The H, D, S and E from upstream to downstream firstly showed a significant increasing trend (p<0.05), reached the highest in the middle reaches, and then decreased in the lower reaches. The vegetation was classified into 12 guild types but the vegetation composition showed a significant variation with a transition from xerophytes to mesophytes and hygrophytes with the increasing flooding time. Cynodon dactylon was the most dominant species based on its highest important value and niche breadth. And high niche breadth had a high niche overlap between species. Therefore, anti-seasonal hydrological alterations precipitated substantial reduction of plant diversity, species competition and exclusion among species by expanding the niche in the guilds. The vegetation in the unique riparian ecosystems was still in the primary stage of plant community succession with low species diversity, high niche overlap, intense competition and obvious single-species dominant communities. Compared to total nitrogen, total phosphorus and soil organic matter factors, the hydrological alteration filtering was more important in explaining the plant guild patterns and niche characteristics. Therefore, there may be some differences in the governance strategies adopted in different areas of the novel riparian ecosystems for vegetation restoration efforts of the riparian forests.
Unraveling the Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Soil and Root-Associated Microbiome in Texas Olive Orchards: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Thenappan Dhivya P. , Thompson Dalton , Joshi Madhumita , Mishra Amit Kumar , Joshi Vijay
Published: March 2024

Understanding the structure and diversity of microbiomes is critical to establishing olives in non-traditional production areas. Limited studies have investigated soil and root-associated microbiota dynamics in olives across seasons or locations in the United States. We explored the composition and spatiotemporal patterns in two niches (roots and soils), seasons (spring, summer, and fall), and domains (bacteria and fungi) in the microbiome of the olive variety Arbequina across three olive orchards in Texas to investigate the structure of the olive-associated microbial communities and specificity to the root endosphere and soil rhizosphere zones. The bacterial populations in the rhizosphere (16.42%) and endosphere (15.49%) were dominated by Phylum Proteobacteria, followed by Actinobacteriota (RS, 12.63%; RE, 16.47%). Rubrobacter (5.27%) and Actinophytocola (3.49%) were dominant taxa in the rhizosphere and root endosphere at the genus level. Among fungal communities, phylum Ascomycota was prevalent in the rhizosphere (71.09%) and endosphere (41.37%). Members of the Chaetomiaceae taxon outnumbered (17.61%) another taxon in the root endosphere. As Per the alpha diversity indices, rhizosphere soil at Moulton showed much higher richness and diversity than other places, which predicted a significant difference in rhizosphere between locations for bacterial diversity and richness. There was no significant variation in the bacterial diversity in the niches and the fungal diversity within the root endosphere between locations. Beta diversity analysis confirmed the effect of compartments (Fungi: 12.3%; Bacteria: 45.1%) in influencing community differences. Microbial diversity was apparent within the endosphere (Bacteria:14.6%, Fungi:15.6%) and rhizosphere (30.5%, Fungi: 21.6%). The seasons influenced only the rhizosphere fungal diversity (8.5%), contrasting the bacterial diversity in either niche. The research provided a comprehensive overview of the microbial diversity present in both the rhizosphere and endosphere of olive trees. The abundance and composition of OTUs associated with the rhizosphere soil of Arbequina suggest its role as a source reservoir in defining the potential endophytes.
Second Order Numerical Technique for Singularly Perturbed Delay Differential Equations of Reaction Diffusion Type with Small Shift
Authors: Regal Akhila Mariya , S Dinesh Kumar
Published: March 2024

In this paper,we propose a finite difference scheme to solve singularly perturbed delay differential equation of reaction-diffusion type with small shift. The scheme derived is almost second order accurate. To evaluate its effectiveness, several test examples with varying perturbation and delay parameter are considered. The proposed scheme is compared with the results of other existing numerical schemes. Error estimate and the rate of convergence are shown in the tables for proposed numerical scheme.
The Use of Methylene Blue in Adult Patients with Septic Shock: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ng Ka Ting , Kwok Pei En , Lim Wei En , Teoh Wan Yi , Hasan Mohd Shahnaz , Abidin Mohd Fitry Zainal
Published: March 2024

Objectives
Methylene blue exerts its vasopressor effects by inhibiting nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation. Recent studies have suggested the use of methylene blue as a rescue therapy for patients with septic shock. The primary aim was to investigate the effect of methylene blue on the mean arterial pressure among adult patients with septic shock.
Methods
The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched from their inception until October 2023. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing methylene blue and placebo in adults with septic shock were included.
Results
Our systematic review included 5 studies (n = 257) for data analysis. Our pooled analysis revealed that compared with the placebo, methylene blue significantly increased the mean arterial pressure (MD: 1.34 mmHg, 95% CI: 0.15 to 2.53, ρ = 0.03; level of evidence: very low). Methylene blue was associated with a significantly lower mortality rate (OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.88; ρ = 0.02; level of evidence: low), reduced serum lactate levels (MD: -0.76 mmol/L, 95% Cl: -1.22 to -0.31; ρ = 0.0009; level of evidence: low), reduced length of hospital stay (MD: -1.94 days, 95% Cl: -3.79 to -0.08; ρ = 0.04; level of evidence: low), and increased PaO2/FiO2 (MD: 34.78, 95% CI: 8.94 to 60.61; ρ = 0.008; level of evidence: low).
Conclusions
This meta-analysis showed that methylene blue administration was associated with increased mean arterial pressure and PaO2/FiO2 and was associated with a reduced mortality rate, serum lactate levels, and duration of hospitalization. However, a substantial degree of heterogeneity and an inadequate number of studies with a low level of evidence warrant future adequately powered RCTs to affirm our results.
Exploring Medical Students' Experience of the Learning Environment: A Mixed Methods Study in Saudi Medical College
Authors: Almansour Mohammed , Abouammoh Noura , Idris Reem Fahad Bin , Alsuliman Omar Abdullatif , Alhomaidi Renad Abdulrahman , Alhumud Mohammed Hamad , Alghamdi Hani A.
Published: March 2024

Background
In medical education, the learning environment (LE) significantly impacts students' professionalism and academic performance. Positive LE perceptions are linked to better academic outcomes. Our study, which was conducted 15 years after curriculum reform at King Saud University's College of Medicine, aimed to explore students' perspectives on their LE and identify areas for improvement. By understanding their experiences, we strive to enhance LE and promote academic success.
Methods
This mixed-method study employed an explanatory sequential approach in which a cross-sectional analytical survey phase was collected first using the Johns Hopkins Learning Environment Scale (JHLES), followed by qualitative focus groups. Findings from quantitative and qualitative methods were integrated using joint display.
Results
A total of 653 medical students completed the JHLES. The total average score was 81 out of 140 (16.8), and the average subscale scores ranged from 2.27 (0.95) for inclusion and safety to 3.37 (0.91) for community of peers. The qualitative approach encompasses both inductive and deductive analyses, identifying overarching themes comprising proudness, high expectations and competition, and views about the curriculum. The integration of results emphasizes the need for continued efforts to create a supportive and inclusive LE that positively influences students' experiences and academic success.
Conclusion
This research offers valuable insights for educational institutions seeking to enhance medical education quality and support systems. Recommendations include faculty development, the cultivation of supportive environments, curriculum revision, improved mentorship programs, and initiatives to promote inclusivity and gender equity. Future research should explore longitudinal and comparative studies, innovative mixed methods approaches, and interventions to further optimize medical education experiences. Overall, this study contributes to the ongoing dialog on medical education, offering a nuanced understanding of the complex factors influencing students' perceptions and suggesting actionable strategies for improvement.
Real-Time Detection and Discrimination of Radioactive Gas Mixtures Using Nanoporous Inorganic Scintillators
Authors: Dujardin Christophe , Luce Raphaël Marie , Mai Pavlo , Lerouge Frederic , Cheref Yannis , Pierre Sylvie , Sabot Benoît , Chaput frederic
Published: March 2024

The nuclear industry's expansion to encompass carbon-free electricity generation from small modular reactors and nuclear fuel reprocessing necessitates enhanced detection and monitoring of pure beta-emitting radioactive elements like 3H and 85Kr ; this endeavour is crucial for nuclear safety authorities tasked with environmental monitoring. However, the short range of electrons emitted by these gases makes detection challenging. Current methods, such as ionisation chambers and liquid scintillation do not offer at the same time good sensitivity, real-time analysis, and ease of implementation. We demonstrate an approach using a gas-solid mixture to overcome these limitations. We synthetized a transparent and scintillating nanoporous material, an aerogel of Y3Al5O12:Ce4+ and achieved real-time detection with an efficiency of 96% for 85Kr and 20\% for 85H. The method reaches a sensitivity bellow 100 mBq per cm3 over 100 s measurement time. Statistical analysis of the temporal responses allows measurement of gas mixtures containing both 3H and 85Kr . We are able to measure simultaneously pure beta emitters, a capability not possible previously. Our results demonstrate a compact and robust detection system for in-line measurement of strategic radioactive gases. This combination of concept and method enhances nuclear powerplant management and contributes to environmental safeguarding. Beyond the detection issues, this concept opens a wide field of new methods for radionuclide metrology.
Exosome PAICS promotes radioresistance of non-small cell lung cancer through reducing radition-induced DNA damage and promoting immune escape via STING signaling pathway
Authors: Meng Lu , Li Peng , Zhang Anqi , Huang Litang , Luo Shilan , Wu Xiaoting , Gong Xiaomei
Published: March 2024

Background
The development of radiotherapy resistance is a process involving complicated mechanisms, in which tumor-derived exosomes play an important role.
Methods
Colony formation assay, wound healing assay and immunofluorescence assay were adopted to examine the the effects of radioresistant cell-derived exosomes on the radiosensitivity of receptor NSCLC cells. RNA sequencing was performed to identify the functional gene of radioresistant NSCLC cells. A series of in vitro and in vivo experiments, such as the subcutaneous transplantation tumor model and the flow cytometry, were adopted to study the effect of the functional protein transported by exosomes on NSCLC and the mechanisms invloved.
Results
We found that radioresistant A549 cell-derived exosomes could attenuate the lethal DNA damage and enhance the radio-resistance of co-cultured NSCLC cells. Phosphoribosylaminoimidazole carboxylase, phosphoribosylaminoimidazole succinocarboxamide synthetase (PAICS) was significantly up-regulated in A549/X and A549/X-derived exosomes, suggesting that exosome PAICS may be involved in the development of radio-resistance in NSCLC. The killing effects of irradiation in NSCLC cells were partially restored when reducing PAICS of exosome. The STING signalling pathway was influenced by PAICS. Moreover, The irradiation-mediated tumor regression was weakened when giving A549/X cell-derived exosomes intravenously before radiotherapy. The animal experiments also indicated that exosome PAICS could restrain the tumor regression effect of irradiation through inducing immunosuppressive macroenvironment and promote tumor immune escape.
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that PAICS, a key enzyme in the purine de novo synthesis pathway, could be transported to the receptor NSCLC cells through exosomes, which might be an important way to cause NSCLC radiotherapy resistance.
Association between preoperative cutaneous conditions and incidence of postoperative skin disorders in patients undergoing lateral decubitus surgery under general anesthesia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Hara Kentaro , Takami Sotaro , Uemura Takahiro , Tachibana Reika , Kumashiro Ryosuke , Yuge Ayaka , Shimoyama Koichiro , Tomoshige Koichi , Yamaguchi Michiko , Fujioka Masaki , Tagawa Tsutomu
Published: March 2024

Background
Pressure ulcers pose significant risks during surgical procedures, particularly in patients undergoing procedures in the lateral decubitus position. This study aimed to explore the relationship between preoperative transepidermal water loss and occurrence of postoperative skin disorders in patients undergoing lateral decubitus surgery under general anesthesia.
Methods
This single-center prospective observational study included participants aged ≥ 20 years who underwent thoracoscopic pneumonectomy between November 2022 and December 2023. The initial sample size was calculated to be 85 but increased to 106 to accommodate potential discontinuations and exclusions. The primary endpoint was transepidermal water loss, with secondary endpoints including keratin moisture content and skin pH. Measurements were conducted in high-risk areas (i.e., the chest side), immediately after sedation. Statistical analysis included Mann–Whitney U test, Spearman's rank correlation, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and multiple regression analysis.
Results
A significant correlation was observed between elevated preoperative transepidermal water loss and postoperative skin disorders, suggesting transepidermal water loss as a predictive biomarker for such complications, especially in surgeries requiring prolonged immobilization or specific positioning (R2 = 0.545, adjusted R2 = 0.545) (B=-0.094; 95% confidence interval, -0.161 to -0.037). This suggests that integrating transepidermal water loss measurements into routine preoperative evaluations could effectively identify patients at higher risk, enabling targeted preventive strategies. A transepidermal water loss cut-off value of 19.5 g/m2/h was identified, with higher values indicating increased risk of postoperative skin disorders.
Conclusion
Preoperative transepidermal water loss measurement holds promise as a predictive tool for identifying patients at risk of postoperative skin impairment and pressure ulcers. Early interventions (e.g., enhanced skin care, hydration management, and nutritional supplementation) are necessary for patients with elevated transepidermal water loss. Integrating transepidermal water loss assessment into preoperative evaluations and implementing targeted preventive strategies may mitigate the incidence of postoperative skin disorders in surgical patients.
Trial registration:
The study and protocol registry for this study is UMIN000053356.
Social Wasp Venom: a Treasure of Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: BN Ganavi , Ramesh Balenahalli Narasingappa
Published: March 2024

Background
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are versatile molecules that are vital for combating pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Insects thrive well in microbe-rich environments and rely on their cellular and humoral immune systems for defense. The humoral system, among other constituents, chiefly comprises antimicrobial peptides. Interestingly, the venom of hymenopteran insects has been identified as a rich repository of these peptides.
Results
This study aimed to explore the potential of social wasp venom as a source of antimicrobial peptides, focusing on two species viz. Ropalidia marginata and Vespa tropica. Venom gland extracts from both species were tested against Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 3160) and Escherichia coli (MTCC 2692), which are gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria respectively. Vespa tropica venom showed antimicrobial activity against both bacteria, while Ropalidia marginata venom was effective only against Staphylococcus aureus. Reverse phase- High performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) was carried out with a peptide-specific protocol to separate fractions of peptides from the venom. Seven fractions were obtained from each species. Two fractions from Vespa tropica exhibited antimicrobial activity against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, while two fractions from Ropalidia marginata were effective only against Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, two fractions from each species showed antibacterial activity against the plant pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, while no antifungal activity was observed against Sclerotium rolfsii. Further analysis of the active fractions using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) revealed the presence of six peptides in each species with m/z 932.280 to m/z 1729.650 for Ropalidia marginata and m/z 1386.182 to m/z 1695.805 for Vespa tropica.
Conclusion
This study elucidates the antimicrobial potential of social wasp venom against a range of bacterial pathogens, suggesting its potential in both therapeutic and agricultural contexts.
Linear optimal transport subspaces for point set classification
Authors: Shifat-E-Rabbi Mohammad , Pathan Naqib Sad , Li Shiying , Zhuang Yan , Rubaiyat Abu Hasnat Mohammad , Rohde Gustavo K
Published: March 2024

Learning from point sets is an essential component in many computer vision and machine learning applications. Native, unordered, and permutation invariant set structure space is challenging to model, particularly for point set classification under spatial deformations. Here we propose a framework for classifying point sets experiencing certain types of spatial deformations, with a particular emphasis on datasets featuring affine deformations. Our approach employs the Linear Optimal Transport (LOT) transform to obtain a linear embedding of set-structured data. Utilizing the mathematical properties of the LOT transform, we demonstrate its capacity to accommodate variations in point sets by constructing a convex data space, effectively simplifying point set classification problems. Our method, which employs a nearest-subspace algorithm in the LOT space, demonstrates label efficiency, non-iterative behavior, and requires no hyper-parameter tuning. It achieves competitive accuracies compared to state-of-the-art methods across various point set classification tasks. Furthermore, our approach exhibits robustness in out-of-distribution scenarios where training and test distributions vary in terms of deformation magnitudes.
A triggering structure of SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.86 spike upon ACE2 binding for receptor-binding domain up
Authors: Hashiguchi Takao , Yajima Hisano , Anraku Yuki , Kaku Yu , Kimura Kanako , Plianchaisuk Arnon , Okumura Kaho , Nakada-Nakura Yoshiko , Kita Shunsuke , Sasaki Jiei , Sumita Hiromi , Ito Jumpei , Maenaka Katsumi , Sato Kei
Published: March 2024

Since 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has undergone mutations, resulting in pandemic and epidemic waves. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, crucial for cellular entry, is believed to bind to the ACE2 receptor exclusively when its receptor-binding domain (RBD) adopts the “up” conformation. However, whether ACE2 exclusively binds to the “up” RBD or also interacts with the “down” RBD to facilitate the conformational shift to RBD-up remains unclear. Here, we present the structures of the BA.2.86 spike alone and bound to ACE2. The N354-linked glycan contributes to the neutralizing antibody evasion in BA.2.86. Notably, we successfully observed the ACE2-bound “down” RBD, indicating a trigger structure before the RBD-up conformation. The wider and mobile angle of RBDs in the “up” state provides space for ACE2 to interact with the “down” RBD, facilitating the transition to the RBD-up state. These structural insights into the spike-protein dynamics would help understand the mechanisms underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection and its neutralization.
Individualized Support for Breastfeeding in a Case of Elevated Maternal Blood Lead: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Ashley Wallace , Mercedes Joann , Markowitz Morri
Published: March 2024

Background
Lead is a known toxicant that affects all tissues in the body, most notably the brains of developing children. However, there are limited data on the dynamics of lead transfer via breastmilk and its short-term and long-term consequences. Much of the available data come from areas of the world where numerous sources of lead complicate our understanding of the effects of lead exposure via breast milk.
Case Presentation
We present trends in blood lead levels (BLLs) in a breastfeeding dyad, where the only source of lead exposure identified was prior to pregnancy, without other known ongoing lead exposures for mother or infant.
Outcomes and Implications
In this case, all lead exposure in the infant was presumed to come from in utero transmission and breastfeeding; and infant BLLs varied significantly with initiation and interruption of breastfeeding. This case is discussed in the context of current models for predicting transfer of lead in breastmilk and demonstrates the use of strategic pauses in breastfeeding to alleviate the burden of lead transfer and support the ongoing breastfeeding relationship.
Antioxidant mechanism of Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil ameliorating pulmonary oxidative stress by activating NRF2 signaling pathway
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Huang Lei , Xu Yongfang , Cheng Biao , Zhao Mingqin
Published: March 2024

Oxidative stress is a major transduction intermediator of air pollution-related pulmonary disorders, thus the antioxidants defensed with pulmonary oxidative stress need to be further pursued. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is widely recognized as a potent natural antioxidant due to its excellent essential oil. However, the application of rosemary essential oil (REO) against oxidative stress has not yet been reported. This study aimed to explore REO’s antioxidant action under pulmonary oxidative stress, and reveal its underlying molecular mechanisms in hydrogen peroxide induced human lung carcinoma (A549) cells. In this paper, REO mainly composed of 1.8-cinelone (54.05%) and α-Pinene (20.67%), showed radical scavenging activity nearly equivalent to that of ascorbic acid, but significantly higher than BTH and BHA in DPPH, ABTS, OH− and O2− assays. At the cellular level, REO (12.5–50 µg/mL) evaluated the levels of cell viability, antioxidant metabolic enzymes CAT, SOD, as well as non-enzymatic antioxidant GSH significantly, while reduced the contents of ROS, MDA and GSSG prominently, when compared to H2O2 exposure only. Mechanically, REO relieved oxidative stress via activating Nrf2 signaling pathway and enhancing the protein expression of Nrf2 and its target genes NQO-1, HO-1, which was verified by molecular docking between 1.8-cineole and Kelch domain of KEAP1 further. Therefore, REO could be considered as a potent natural antioxidant with potential strategy in food and pharmaceutical industries.
The Measurement of Occupational Segregation in a Multigroup Context: A System Based Approach
Authors: Watts Martin John
Published: March 2024

Over the last three decades many multigroup indexes have been developed and applied to occupational and school segregation in both time series and cross-sectional studies.
In this paper, by reference to the properties of two well-known segregation indexes, we contrast the features of a systems based methodology to analyse time series changes in occupational segregation by gender/race with an approach based on the disaggregation of gender/race groups through the derivation of local indexes.
We conclude that the systems based approach is superior and illustrate our claim via an empirical study of US employment data defined across Gender, Race and Occupation for the years 2010 and 2018.
The effect of Nrf2 on bone resorption in chronic apical periodontitis
Authors: Song QiYi , Wu Saixuan , Dong Ming , Liu Shuo , Wang Lina , Niu Weidong
Published: March 2024

Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is responsible for regulating and maintaining the transcription of cytoprotective genes under conditions of stress and the destruction of redox homeostasis. This study aimed to elucidate the role of Nrf2 in the bone resorption of chronic apical periodontitis (CAP). We used immunohistochemical staining, western blotting and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) to clarify the expression of Nrf2 in the normal human periodontal ligament and in CAP. A mouse model of apical periodontitis was established by root canal exposure to the oral cavity, and hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the progress of apical periodontitis. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the expression of Nrf2 in different stages of apical periodontitis. An Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mediated inflammatory environment was also established at the osteoclast and osteoblast levels, and the role of Nrf2 in proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts was examined by downregulating Nrf2 expression. The expression of Nrf2 in CAP was higher in the apical periodontitis group than that in healthy periodontal ligament tissue. The expression of Nrf2 increased with the progression of inflammation in mouse apical periodontitis model. In the inflammatory environment mediated by LPS, downregulation of Nrf2 promoted the proliferation and differentiation of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Nrf2 is involved in the disease process of CAP and may participate in the occurrence and development of bone destruction in CAP by regulating the proliferation and differentiation of osteoclasts and osteoblasts.
A case report of caesarean section scar pregnancy: novel approach to acute management
Authors: rodrigo nilan , danarathne dhanuka , gunasekera eranda
Published: March 2024

Introduction:
This case report presents the clinical journey of a 41-year-old woman who was diagnosed with caesarean section ectopic pregnancy, which is the rarest form of ectopic pregnancy, but who presented as an emergency because of default to planned management.
Case presentation:
A 41-year-old woman who had two previous caesarean sections at a 10-week period of amenorrhea presented to our hospital gynaecology clinic with mild abdominal pain without bleeding per vagina for five days.
A transvaginal scan was performed, and a caesarean scar pregnancy was diagnosed.
The diagnosis was explained to the patient, and scar ectopic removal either by hysteroscopy or laparoscopy was scheduled in two days.
The patient did not undergo the procedure as scheduled but experienced severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding after four days.
On examination, she was haemodynamically stable with a soft abdomen. The vaginal speculum showed period-like bleeding with an opened cervical os.
A transvaginal scan revealed a caesarean section ectopic with a foetal pole and heartbeat.
Since the cervical os was opened, successful suction curettage was performed. Beta hCG became undetectable 11 days after curettage.
Conclusion:
This case demonstrates the current knowledge of the application of transvaginal scanning for managing the acute presentation of caesarean scar pregnancy, and the correct application of minimally invasive appropriate tailor-made surgical procedures will provide cost -effective and safer outcomes for individual patients.
Classification System for Early Breast Cancer Diagnosis using Machine Learning
Authors: Aziz Miran Hakim , Abdulla Alan Anwer
Published: March 2024

Morbidity and even mortality are common outcomes of breast cancer, which is one of the most common diseases affecting women worldwide. Breast cancer is challenging, expensive, and takes a long time to diagnose manually by radiologist. Since it gets beyond all of the drawbacks of manual diagnosis, an automatic/computer-based diagnosis of breast cancer might be thought of as an alternative to manual diagnosis. Utilizing image processing techniques, computer-based diagnostic systems process breast images from mammograms. This study aims to suggest a computer-based diagnostic system for breast cancer by using machine learning to classify the input mammography image into three classes: normal, benign, and malignant. The suggested system comprises of a certain of steps. The input image is initially pre-processed to remove labels and enhance image quality using median filter and adaptive histogram equalization. The next step entails applying the threshold segmentation technique to segment the cancer cells in order to isolate the region of interest (ROI). The Gray Level Run Length Matrix (GLRLM) feature extraction technique is then implemented to extract texture features from the segmented ROI. Consequently, on the basis of the extracted features, Support Vector Machine (SVM) and k-Nearest Neighbor (kNN) classifier techniques are employed to classify the segmented region as normal, benign, and malignant. The performance of the proposed system was examined via extensive experiments conducted on the well-known Mammographic Image Analysis Society (MIAS) dataset of mammography images. The experimental findings reveal that the proposed system outperforms existing systems, which attained a 98.6% accuracy rate.
Regulation of trophic factors in the choroid plexus of aged mice
Authors: Sadanandan Jayanarayanan , Sathyanesan Monica , Newton Samuel S
Published: March 2024

Background
The choroid plexus (CP) is an understudied tissue in the central nervous system (CNS), primarily implicated in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production. Additionally, CP produces numerous neurotrophic factors (NTF), which circulate to different regions of the brain. Regulation of NTF in the CP during natural aging has yet to be discovered. Here, we investigated the age and gender-specific transcription of NTFs along with the changes in the tight junctional proteins (TJPs) and water channel protein Aquaporin (AQP1).
Methods
We used male and female mice for our study. We analyzed neurotrophic factor gene expression patterns using quantitative and digital droplet PCR at three different time points: mature adult, middle-aged, and aged. Additionally, we used immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) to evaluate in vivo protein expression. We further investigated the cellular phenotype of these NTFS, TJP, and water channel proteins in the mouse CP by co-labeling them with the classical vascular marker, Isolectin B4, and epithelial cell marker, plectin.
Results
Aging significantly altered the NTF's gene expression in the CP. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Midkine, VGF, Insulin-like growth factor (IGF1), IGF2, klotho, Erythropoietin, and its receptor were reduced in the aged CP of males and females. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) transcription was gender-specific; in males, gene expression is unchanged in the aged CP, while females showed an age-dependent reduction. Age-dependent changes in VEGF localization were evident, from vasculature to epithelial cells. IGF2 and klotho localized in the basolateral membrane of the CP and showed an age-dependent reduction in epithelial cells. Water channel protein AQP1 localized in the tip of epithelial cells and showed an age-related reduction in mRNA and protein levels. TJP’s JAM, CLAUDIN1, CLAUDIN2, and CLAUDIN5 were reduced in aged mice.
Conclusions
Our study highlights transcriptional level changes in the CP during aging. The age-related transcriptional changes exhibit similarities as well as gene-specific differences in the CP of males and females. Altered transcription of the water channel protein AQP1 and TJPs could be involved in reduced CSF production during aging. Importantly, reduction in the neurotrophic factors and longevity factor Klotho can play a role in regulating brain aging.
Structured second-order linear ODEs: Eigenvalues, singular values and the DMD
Authors: Schwarz Diana Estevez
Published: March 2024

For certain classes of structured matrices, the eigenvalues can be estimated or even calculated explicitly by means of well-known formulas. Starting from these formulas, in this article we derive further formulas for the eigenvalues and singular values of structured matrices that result from second-order linear ODEs by order reduction. This insight leads to a better understanding of these relationships and permits the construction of large-scaled examples (or counterexamples) with specific characteristics that can be used for testing and teaching purposes. As applications, we discuss two well-known example classes, namely a simple discretized wave equation and simple spring-damper systems in series. On the one hand, we can recognize when complex eigenvalues appear and compute the stiffness index and stiffness ratio explicitly. On the other hand, if the dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) is applied to data generated with such ODEs, then the formulas allow to estimate the eigenvalues and singular values that are relevant in this context. For some of the mentioned examples we visualize and discuss the approximations obtained with the DMD with very low-dimensional dynamics.