bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tailoring fructooligosaccharides composition with engineered Zymomonas mobilis ZM4
Authors: Braga Adelaide , Gomes Daniela , Rainha Joao , Cardoso Beatriz , Amorim Claudia , Silvério Sara , Lobato Maria , Rodrigues Joana , Rodrigues Ligia
Published: January 2024

Zymomonas mobilis ZM4 is an attractive host for the development of
microbial cell factories to synthesize high-value compounds, including
prebiotics. In this study, a straightforward process to produce
fructooligosaccharides (FOS) from sucrose was established. To control
the relative FOS composition, recombinant Z. mobilis strains secreting a
native levansucrase (encoded by sacB) or a mutated β-fructofuranosidase
(Ffase-Leu196) from Schwanniomyces occidentalis were constructed. Both
strains were able to produce a FOS mixture with high concentration of
6-kestose. The best results were obtained with Z. mobilis ZM4 pB1-sacB,
that was able to produce 73.4 ± 1.6 g L−1 of FOS, with a productivity of
1.53 ± 0.03 g L-1 h-1 and a yield of 0.31 ± 0.03 gFOS gsucrose-1. This
is the first report on the FOS production using a mutant Z. mobilis ZM4
strain in a one-step process.
Responses of grassland vegetation and soil nutrients to desertification in Qilian Mountains of eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: li qiang , He Guoxing , zhang degang , liu xiaoni
Published: January 2024

To explore the change characteristics of vegetation and soil nutrients
in grassland desertification, the study intends to using the method of
replacing space with time, taking temperate steppe (TS), temperate
steppe desert (TSD) and temperate desert (TD) in Qilian mountains as the
research objects, and analyze the change characteristics of vegetation
and soil nutrients replacing succession of grassland desertification.
The study indicated that, from TS, TSD to TD, the total coverage, AGB,
Shannon-Weiner index and richness, total porosity, total N, soil organic
matter, C/N, C/P, N/P, alkaline phosphatase, catalase, sucrase were
decreased, and grass layer height, dominance, soil bulk density and pH
were increased. While the total P, total K and available P were first
increased and then decreased, and were opposite to evenness and urease
enzyme activity change. Meanwhile, the C/N, C/P and N/P of three
grassland types ranged from 5.06-17.27, 2.49-71.94 and 0.50-4.19.
Correlation analysis showed that, except for available P, available K,
and evenness, there was a significant correlation between other
vegetation and soil indicators. In conclusion, in the process of
grassland desertification, grassland vegetation and soil had undergone
significant changes, especially total coverage, AGB, Shannon-Weiner
index, soil bulk density, soil organic matter and total nitrogen. Based
on N/P, the nitrogen was the main factor limiting the productivity of
grassland, and the limitation was more prominent in the process of
grassland desertification.
Evaluation of the Clinical, Laboratory and Radiology Findings and Treatment Methods of Children with Acute Bronchiolitis
Authors: Uğur Cüneyt , Somuncu Elif
Published: January 2024

In this study, it is aimed to determine the factors affecting the
duration of hospitalization and causing the initiation of antibiotics in
children with acute bronchiolitis. This study was conducted at a
Training and Research Hospital retrospectively. Demographic data,
clinical features, laboratory and radiological findings, treatment
method and duration of hospitalization of 102 patients who were followed
up in the pediatric ward, between September 2017 and April 2019 and in
the autumn, winter and spring months were recorded from the patients’
files. The subjects of this study were 67 (65.7%) male and 35 (34.3%)
female. Median age was 6.5 (11) months. Age range was 1-6 months 50.0%,
7-12 months 20.6%, 13-24 months 13.7% and 25-36 months 15.7%. Median
duration of hospitalization was 7 (4) days. Distribution according to
the seasons was winter 66.7%, spring 20.6% and autumn 12.7%. The
patients were bronchiolitis that mild 35.3%, moderate 50%, and severe
14.7%. The most common agents in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were
respiratory syncytial virus (58.8%), influenza virus (19.6%),
rhinovirus (14.7%), bocavirus (14.7%) and parainfluenza virus
(11.7%). The crepitant ral in physical examination, respiratory
acidosis in blood gas analysis, co-infection with influenza virus in
PCR, and the viral pneumonia on chest radiography were found as
significant factors prolonging the patient’s duration of
hospitalization. Wheezing, crepitant ral, leukocytosis, and neutrophilia
were determined as significant reasons of antibiotic initiation.
Thermal adaptation occurs in the respiration and growth of widely distributed bacteria
Authors: Tian Weitao , Sun Huimin , Zhang Yan , Xu Jianjun , Yao Jia , LI Bo , Nie Ming
Published: January 2024

Microbial thermal adaptation will lead to a weakening of the positive
feedback between climate warming and soil respiration. The thermal
adaptations of microbial communities and fungal species has been widely
proven. However, studies on the thermal adaptation of bacterial species,
the most important decomposers in the soil, are still lacking. Here, we
isolated six species of widely distributed dominant bacteria and studied
the effects of constant warming and temperature fluctuations on those
species. The results showed that both scenarios caused a downregulation
of respiratory temperature sensitivity (Q10) of the bacterial species,
accompanied by an elevation of the minimum temperature (Tmin) required
for growth, suggesting that both scenarios caused thermal adaptation in
bacterial species. Fluctuating and increasing temperatures are
considered an important component of future warming. Therefore, the
inclusion of physiological responses of bacteria to these changes is
essential the prediction of global soil-atmosphere C feedbacks.
Comprehensive Prediction for FCC Light Cycling Oil Based on Samples from Industrial Units
Authors: Xu Hongxia
Published: January 2024

Light Cycling Oil (LCO) from an FCC industrial unit has low qualities
with low cetane number and high contents of aromatics, sulfur and
nitrogen. However, LCO can make valuable products like gasoline or BTX
through hydrotreating or hydrocracking. To understand the comprehensive
qualities of LCO is very significant to carry out the correct and quick
adjustments of process parameters for the related units. As many as 127
LCO samples were taken from different FCC industrial units and then sent
to the analytical lab for obtaining complete information about LCO
properties. A mathematical model, which is able to predict the
comprehensive qualities of LCO based on the routine or daily lab
analysis with limited data like density and distillation fractions, was
developed. The mathematical equations presented can be easily used to
calculate related LCO properties for researchers or engineers.
Microwave-assisted desulfurization of coal tar pitch
Authors: Sun WanXing , Guo ShaoQing , Liu Yang , Sun ZhengXuan , Cheng WeiJie
Published: January 2024

Microwave-assisted catalytic oxidation for desulfurization of coal tar
pitch (CTP) was carried out with hydrogen peroxide as oxidant and FeCl3
as catalysts under acidic conditions of formic acid. The effects of
different conditions on the desulfurization effect of the CTP were
studied. The results showed that the method was an effective way to
remove the sulfur in the CTP. The optimal condition of desulfurization
in the CTP was obtained and the desulfurization rate of the CTP could
reach 50.7%. The mechanism of FeCl3 catalyzed oxidative method was that
the Fenton-like phenomenon occurred in the reaction system, which
produced strong hydroxyl radicals. The free radicals can react with
sulfur in the CTP, promoting the sulfur removal of the CTP. The results
of XPS analysis showed that the sulfur in the CTP mainly existed in the
form of thiophene sulfur and sulfoxide sulfur, which can be removed
significantly with the method.
Intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma in Australia: 11-year experience
Authors: Jiao Yuanzhang , O'Day Roderick , Mathew Anu , Elder James , McKenzie John , Sullivan MIchael , Campbell Marty , Mitchell Peter , Vrazas John , Bekhit Elhamy , Gole Glen , Jones Michael , Camuglia Jayne , Sia David , White Jaclyn , Staffieri Sandra
Published: January 2024

Background: Intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) is increasingly used in
managing patients with retinoblastoma. In Australia, IAC is primarily
used as a globe-salvage treatment when primary treatment has failed.
Methods: A retrospective, single-institution study conducted on
consecutive children treated with IAC at the Royal Children’s Hospital,
Victoria, Australia between September 2009 to January 2021. Results:
Using the Intraocular Classification of Retinoblastoma (ICRB), 16 eyes
of 14 children classified as group A (n=1), Group B (n=3), Group D
(n=10), or Group E (n=2) were treated with IAC. All but one child
received IAC as secondary treatment for relapsed or refractory disease.
Successful catheterisation of the ophthalmic artery was achieved in
37/46 (80.4%) procedures. A systemic complication occurred in one child
(n=1): radiological evidence of a watershed infarct. Local complications
of IAC included conjunctival injection (n=1), forehead rash (n=1), sixth
cranial nerve palsy (n=2), ptosis (n=2), hemi-retinal ischaemia (n=1),
choroidal ischaemia (n=1), retinal detachment (n=2), and choroidal
neovascularisation (n=1). Regional extra-ocular disease occurred in one
child. No child had distant metastatic disease and no child died. The
overall globe salvage rate was 8/16 (50%): Group A (n=1, 100%), group
B (n=2, 66.6%), Group D (n=5, 50%), group E (n=0, 0%). Kaplan Meier
analysis of ocular survival following treatment with IAC was 75%, 68%
and 53% for 6 months, 1 year and 2 years, respectively. Conclusions:
Our experience demonstrates that IAC can be a useful treatment modality
for refractory retinoblastoma in globe salvage, with an acceptable
side-effect profile.
Characterization of two chicken origin highly pathogenic H7N9 viruses isolated in northern China in 2020
Authors: Gu Jinyuan , Yan Yayao , Zeng Zixiong , Wang Wenli , Gao Ruyi , Hu Jiao , Hu Shunlin , Wang Xiaoquan , Gu Min , Liu Xiufan
Published: January 2024

Since the national vaccination program was implemented with the H5/H7
bivalent vaccine in poultry in September 2017, the prevalence of H7N9
avian influenza viruses (AIVs) has been controlled effectively in China,
and low pathogenic H7N9 viruses have disappeared nationwide. However,
highly pathogenic H7N9 viruses still exist, causing sporadic outbreaks
especially in some regions of northern China. During our routine
surveillance in poultry in 2020, we isolated two strains of H7N9 subtype
AIV from breeder layer farms in northern China. We found that these two
chicken-origin H7N9 isolates were both highly pathogenic (HP) based on
the sequence of the HA gene. Deduced amino acid sequences of the HA gene
revealed that both strains had a four-amino-acid (KRTA) insertion at
position 339-342 and an I335V mutation in the cleavage site to make the
motif PEVPKRKRTAR↓GLF. Remarkably, both strains gained the F102V and
N157D mutations (H3 numbering) in their HA genes, which have never been
reported before. Solid-phase direct binding assay showed that these two
isolates both had dual-receptor binding characteristics, while thermal
and acid stability assays indicated that they were relatively stable in
high-temperature or acidic conditions. In addition, the animal
experiments demonstrated that both strains were highly pathogenic to
chickens but low pathogenic to mice. These results suggested that the
evolution of H7N9 subtype AIV is still continuing, and they pose a
potential threat to poultry and public health. Thus, attentions should
be paid to the importance of continual surveillance of the H7N9 AIVs.
A signal processing approach to desensitization procedures
Authors: Stan Razvan C.
Published: January 2024

Desensitization (DS) protocols have empirically established their
efficacy and safety in eliminating most of the hypersensitivity
reactions (HSR) to drugs and other allergens. It is well established
that these molecules can otherwise be lethal, for some patients, when
singularly administered at therapeutic doses. These binding events and
the subsequent signaling cascades have been extensively modulated by
different DS methods, without any clear explanation as to why it is
necessary to use increasing allergen doses. A signal processing approach
is used in this Letter to introduce aliasing as the erroneous detection
of higher drug doses responsible for DS procedures.
Surgical management of a loss of pregnancy in the first trimester: Patient experience and influencing factors, a prospective observational study
Authors: TOUTAIN Typhaine , PHILIP Charles André , BOLLON Lauriane , CROS Manon , FRAISSENON Antoine , Dupont Corinne , GAUCHER Laurent , Haesebaert Julie , NOHUZ Erdogan , CORTET Marion
Published: January 2024

Objective: Describe the “patient experience” regarding care provided
during the surgical management of a loss of pregnancy in the first
trimester and identify the factors influencing this experience. Design:
Analytical observational prospective study. Setting: Two main, academic,
maternity wards in Lyon, France, carrying out 8,500 deliveries per year.
Population: Adult female patients, speaking French, having undergone a
curettage for a loss of pregnancy in the first trimester from 24
December 2020 to 13 June 2021. Methods: The “patient experience” was
assessed using the 15 questions of the Picker Patient Experience
(PPE-15) questionnaire, and research was conducted on factors
influencing the patient experience. Main outcome measures: Percentage of
patients reporting a problem in response to at least one of the PPE-15
questions. Results: 58 out of 79 patients (73% CI [62-83]) reported
at least one problem with their care. The largest proportion of problems
was raised in question about “Opportunity for family/loved ones to talk
to the doctor” (76% CI [61-87]). The lowest proportion of problems
was raised in question about “Treated with respect and dignity” (8%
CI [3-16]). No factors influencing the patient experience were
identified. Conclusions: The main areas of improvement reported by
patients identified were the participation of their family/relatives and
the emotional support provided by the healthcare workers team. Funding:
None. Keywords: Patient experience, loss of pregnancy, Picker Patient
Experience, suction curettage. Tweetable abstract: Better communication
with patient families and emotional support could improve patient
experience during the surgical management of a loss of pregnancy
Risk factors and ramifications of failure to achieve cervical ripening with prostaglandins -- Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Berezowsky Alexandra , Zeevi Gil , Hadar Eran , Krispin Eyal
Published: January 2024

Objective: To assess the characteristics and evaluate the outcomes of
women who failed to respond to cervical ripening with prostaglandins.
Methods: A retrospective cohort analysis (2012-2018) of all women with
singleton gestation who underwent induction of labor, due to post-date
pregnancy, with a slow-release prostaglandin-E2 vaginal insert for
cervical ripening. Overall, 1285 women were divided into 2 groups: a)
responders - 1,202 (93.54%) - achieved ripening within 24 hours ; b)
non-responders- 83 (6.46%) – did not achieve cervical ripening within
24 hours. Characteristics and outcomes were compared between the groups.
Primary outcome was defined as vaginal delivery rate following ripening
process. Secondary outcomes were defined as composite adverse maternal
and adverse neonatal outcomes. A model combining maternal
characteristics and response rates to ripening was constructed as well.
Results: In comparison to non-responders, responders achieved higher
rates of vaginal delivery (96.51% vs. 66.27%, p<0.001). They
also had lower rates of adverse maternal outcomes (12.81% vs. 24.10%,
p=0.031) and of neonatal respiratory adverse outcomes (1.33% vs.
6.02%, p=0.009). The responders were also younger (30.03 vs 31.73,
p=0.005), and less nulliparous (76.92% vs 50.99%, p<0.001).
A multivariate analysis showed that failure to achieve a cervical
ripening is an independent risk factor for intrapartum cesarean delivery
due to failure to progress in labor (aOR 11.90, 95% CI 6.13-23.25).
Conclusion: Women who achieve cervical ripening with PROPESS are
younger, and more often multiparous. This group is associated with lower
rates of intrapartum cesarean delivery and adverse outcomes.
Effect of host-switching on the eco-evolutionary patterns of parasites
Authors: D'Bastiani Elvira , Princepe Débora , Campião Karla , Marquitti Flavia , Boeger Walter , Araujo Sabrina
Published: January 2024

Increasing empirical evidence has revealed that host-switching is more
common than cospeciation in the history of parasites. Here, we
investigated how the intensity of host-switching, mediated by
opportunity and compatibility, affects the phylogenetic history and
ecology of the parasites. We developed a theoretical model to simulate
the evolution of populations of parasites that can explore and colonize
new hosts under variable host-switching intensities. Eco-evolutionary
patterns (beta diversity/normalized Sackin index) obtained from parasite
simulations were compared to nine empirical cases. Our model reproduced
the empirical patterns, and such simulations varied in host-switching
intensity according to the analysed case. This intensity does not differ
among cases of ecto and endoparasites, but it was stronger in local
cases when compared to a regional scale. Our results highlight the
importance of contact opportunity, and suggest that host-switching
intensity mediates the exploration and colonization of new hosts
promoting variation in the eco-evolutionary patterns.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of the sweet potato weevil, Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Brentidae)
Authors: Hua Jinfeng , Zhang Lei , Han Yonghua , Gou Xiaowan , Li Huifeng , Huang Yongmei , Li Yanqing , Chen Tianyuan , Ma Daifu , Li Zongyun
Published: January 2024

Cylas formicarius is one of the most important pests of sweet potato
worldwide, causing considerable ecological and economic damage. To
improve the effect of comprehensive management and understanding of
genetic mechanisms, the genetic functions of C. formicarius have been
the subject of intensive study. Using Illumina and PacBio sequencing, we
obtained a chromosome-level genome assembly of adult weevils from lines
inbred for 15 generations. The high-quality assembly obtained had a size
of 338.84 Mb, with contig and scaffold N50 values of 14.97 Mb and 34.23
Mb, respectively. In total, 157.51 Mb of repeat sequences and 11,907
protein-coding genes were predicted. A total of 337.06 Mb of genomic
sequences was located on the 11 chromosomes, and the sequence length
that could be used to determine the sequence and direction accounted for
99.03% of the total length of the associated chromosome. Comparative
genomic analysis showed that C. formicarius was sister to Dendroctonus
ponderosae, and C. formicarius diverged from D. ponderosae approximately
138.89 million years ago (Mya). Many important gene families that were
expanded in the C. formicarius genome were involved in detoxification of
pesticides, tolerance to cold stress and chemosensory system. In an
in-depth study, the binding assay results indicated that CforOBP4-6 had
strong binding affinities for sex pheromones and other ligands. Overall,
the high-quality C. formicarius genome provides a valuable resource to
reveal the molecular ecological basis, genetic mechanism, evolutionary
process of major agricultural pests, new ideas and new technologies for
ecologically sustainable pest control.
Host determination role of some amino acid sequences in the receptor-binding site and phylogenetic analysis of a high pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) viruses isolated from Northern Turkey
Authors: Kadi Hamza , Ozan Emre , COBAN Ahmet Yilmaz
Published: January 2024

Avian influenza (AI) H5N1 viruses are zoonotic agents that cause high
mortality rates in humans and poultry. In this study, some molecular
characterizations and phylogenetic analysis of Hemagglutinin gene of
H5N1 isolates seen in our country in 2006 were performed. Thus, it is
aimed to determine the pathogenicity levels of those available isolates
and whether they have the ability to transmit from person to person and
establish the evolutionary relationships to some other viruses
circulated in Europe, Asia and Africa. In the scope of the study,
seventeen H5N1 isolates that were isolated from various Avian species
were used. After the isolates were regenerated and produced in specific
pathogen-free (SPF) embryonated chicken eggs, chorioallantoic fluids of
the eggs were collected and RNA extraction was made, and the enzyme
cleavage and receptor binding site of the hemagglutinin gene was
replicated using RT-PCR. After this process, the enzyme cleavage site of
the Hemagglutinin genes and the amino acid sequence of the
receptor-binding site were determined by the BioEdit program. As a
result, it was determined that all the seventeen isolates are High
Pathogenic AI viruses. In addition, the sequence analysis of the
receptor-binding site indicated that seventeen isolates did not have any
mutations in the relevant amino acid positions. Also, our isolates were
classified as clade 2.2 and clade 2.2.1 and were closely related to
European and Asian isolates. Moreover, it is found that our isolates are
not capable of transmitting from person to person; However, due to the
virus traits, it has been concluded that the molecular and antigenic
characteristics of the virus should be determined in places where the
disease occurs since it is still circulating in some parts of the world
and can be transported with migratory birds.
Salt secretion and rejection involving osmoregulation genes in mangrove plant
Authors: Zhu Jing-Jing , Yan Bing
Published: January 2024

In order to adapt to the stress of various environmental conditions such
as high temperature, high salinity, hypoxia, and tidal flooding,
mangrove plants have evolved a series of structural and physiological
characteristics, and formed unique water use mechanisms and salt
management strategies. This paper briefly describes the salt
adaptability characteristics of mangrove plant Avicennia marina in
morphological structure, physiology and ecology, including water
transfer characteristics, water and salt management strategies,
activation of antioxidant pathways, and focuses on the action mechanism
of osmotic regulation on salt tolerance of Avicennia marina on the
genetic and genomic level in recent years. The main characteristics of
salt adaptation in mangroves are preliminarily revealed, which provides
a new breakthrough point for further research on the molecular mechanism
of mangroves adaptive evolution.
Platelet-lymphocytes ratio predicts the prognosis of laryngeal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ding Dong , Huang zhigang , Yin gaofei , Liu Hongfei
Published: January 2024

Background: Preoperative inflammatory indicators had been found to
correlate with tumor prognosis, contributing to patient stratification
and precise treatment. Objectives: The proportion of
Platelet-lymphocytes ratio was associated with the progression of
laryngeal cancer, however the results were not consistent. Therefore, we
used a meta-analysis to evaluate the prediction of preoperative
Platelet-lymphocytes ratio （PLR）for laryngeal cancer outcomes.
Methods: We searched WOS, Ovid, Pubmed and The Cochrane library for
articles on PLR and Overall Survival(OS) and Progression-free
survival(PFS) of patients with laryngeal cancer, from January 1, 2000 to
May 1, 2021. State 12.0 was used for conbination analysis. Fixed effects
model and random effects model were used to calculated HR and 95%CI.
Preferred reporting items that follow systematic review and
meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: This meta-analysis
eventually included 1,711 cases from 7 studies. The merge OS, HR=1.70,
95%CI 1.11-2.61; PFS, HR=1.34, 95%CI 0.47-3.81. Subgroup analysis
included sample size, cut-off, treatment, variable and disease stage
showed that a poor OS in patients with increased PLR. Conclusion: Higher
PLR may be an adverse prognostic factor for laryngeal cancer. PLR could
be obtained by regularly preoperative test, it could help surgeons to
evaluate the prognosis of patients with laryngeal cancer. Key words:
Laryngeal cancer; Platelet-lymphocytes ratio; Meta-analysis; System
review.
New choices for Tikhonov regularization matrix using fractional derivative approach
Authors: Mohammady Somaieh , Eslahchi Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2024

‎A linear discrete ill-posed problem has a perturbed right-hand side
vector and an ill-conditioned‎ ‎coefficient matrix‎. ‎The solution to
such a problem is very sensitive to perturbation‎. ‎Replacement of the
coefficient matrix by a nearby one that has less condition‎ ‎number is
one of the well-known approaches for decreasing the sensitivity of the
problem to perturbation. ‎In this paper‎, ‎we suggest some new
regularization matrix to the Tikhonov regularization‎. ‎These new ones
are based on fractional derivatives such as Grunwald-Letnikov and Caputo
and can cause to have more exact solutions‎.
Resource co-limitation of community biomass but not structure of an alpine grassland
Authors: Zhu Juntao , Zong Ning , Shi Peili , Yang Xian , zhang yangjian , Jiang Lin
Published: January 2024

Anthropogenic environmental changes are influencing the structure and
function of many ecological communities, but their underlying mechanisms
are often poorly understood. We conducted a seven-year field experiment
to explore the ecological consequences of nitrogen (N) and phosphorous
(P) enrichment in a high-altitude Tibetan alpine grassland. The
enrichment of both N and P, but not either alone, resulted in increased
plant above- and below-ground biomass. By contrast, N, but not P,
enrichment reduced species richness, and altered plant phylogenetic
diversity and structure. The observed decline in species richness under
N addition was driven by the loss of species characterized by high leaf
nitrogen content, and associated with higher soil manganese level and
greater belowground competition. Our study highlights resource
co-limitation of community biomass but not structure of the study
grassland, while also identifying soil metal toxicity and belowground
competition as important mechanisms driving community changes after
nutrient amendment.
Solvability of the fuzzy integral equations due to traffic flow
Authors: samadpour vahid , Ezzati Reza
Published: January 2024

In this research, we investigate the fuzzy integral equations related to
traffic flow. Using the Banach fixed point theorem, we prove the
existence and uniqueness of the solution for such equations. Using the
Picard iterative method, we obtain the upper bound for an accurate and
approximate solution. Finally, we obtain an error estimation between the
exact solution and the solution of the iterative method. Example show
the applicability of our results.
The efficacy and safety of fingolimod plus standardized treatment versus standardized treatment alone for acute ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bai Peng , Zhu Runxiu , Wang Ping , Jiang Feng , Zhen Jin , Yao Yuan , Zhao Chenhui , Liang Zihong , Wang Meiling , Liu Bin , Li Min , Li Na , Yuan Jun
Published: January 2024

Aims Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is the most common type of stroke.
Fingolimod is a sphingosine analog that acts on sphingosine-1-phosphate
receptors(S1PR). Recently, the safety and efficacy of fingolimod in both
patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and patients with AIS have been
investigated in proof-of-concept trials. In this review, we performed a
meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fingolimod for AIS.
Methods This study was conducted according to the PRISMA (Preferred
Reporting Items for Systemic review and Meta-Analysis) statement. We
searched for publications on the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central
Register of Controlled Trials, Clinical trials, CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP,
CBM up to August 2021. We compiled 5 studies; a main Meta-analysis
forest plots were conducted for the values of the proportion of patients
whose modified Rankin scale(MRS) score was 0-1 at day 90. A sensitivity
analysis was performed with a mean difference (MD) of the efficacy of
fingolimod plus standardized treatment versus standardized treatment
alone. Random effect karyotype is used for Meta-analysis regardless of
the I2 index. The methodological quality of each randomized controlled
trial (RCTs) was assessed according to the Cochrane Collaboration tool
to assess the risk of bias (ROB). Results A meta-analysis of 5 studies
with 228 participants was conducted. The risk ratio of patients whose
MRS score was 0-1 at day 90 between fingolimod plus standardized
treatment and standardized treatment alone was 2.59. Conclusions The
Fingolimod plus standard treatment group resulted in more ischemic
penumbra rescue and improved clinical function than the standard
treatment.
Green, versatile, and scale-up synthesis of amides by aerobic oxidative amination over Ag2O/P-C3N4 photocatalyst
Authors: Deng Lanqing , Chen Lang , Zhu Liangdi , Li Yang , Ouyang Jie , Wu Shaofeng , Chen Peng , Shen Sheng , Guo Junkang , Zhou Yongbo , Au Peter , Yin Shuang-Feng
Published: January 2024

Being extensively applied in various fields of chemistry and chemical
industry, the development of a green and versatile method for the
synthesis of amides is in line with the demand of sustainable chemistry.
Herein, a direct, highly selective, and scale-up (5–20 mmol) method for
photocatalytic synthesis of amides through aerobic oxidative amination
of alcohols with amines was developed under visible light, room
temperature, using air as the oxidant. Benefiting from the adsorption of
sodium hemiaminal on catalyst lengthens the C–H bond (1.148 Å), this
novel process is feasible for a broad range of functionlized amides (69
examples), especially those for drug manufacture (e.g., moclobemide and
pipobroman). Imines was almost prevented with excellent amide
selectivity up to 99% could be ascribed to the low energy barrier for
hemiaminal dehydrogenation while that for dehydration is high (2.13 eV).
This green and efficient protocol represents an ideal alternative to the
currently known methods.
On solution of fractional integral equation via measure of noncompactness and Petryshyn's fixed point theorem
Authors: Golshan Hamid Mottaghi
Published: January 2024

In this paper, using the technique of measures of noncompactness, we
employ the Petryshyn’s fixed point theorem as a generalization of
classical Schauder fixed point principle to investigate the solution of
some general nonlinear fractional integral equations in the Banach space
of continuous functions . Also, for applicability of the obtained
results of our theorem, some examples are given.
Reduced mesophyll conductance by cell wall thickening and chloroplasts decreasing driven the decline of photosynthesis under sole NH 4 + supply
Authors: Cao Yiwen , Pan Yonghui , Liu Tianheng , Wang Min , Guo Shiwei
Published: January 2024

The relationship between nitrogen (N) sources and photosynthetic
capacity of leaf differs between species. However, the leaf anatomical
variabilities related to photosynthesis ( A) of shrubs under
different forms of N remain imperfectly known. Here, Lonicera
Japonica (a shrub) was grown hydroponically in the presence of three
forms of N (sole NH , 50%/50% NH
/NO and sole NO ). A and photosynthetic N use efficiency
significantly decreased under sole NH supply, in parallel with down-regulated stomatal
conductance ( g), mesophyll conductance (
g), and electron transfer rate ( J). Up
to the total A decline of 41.28% in sole NH supply (compare with sole NO ), the g attributed to
60.3% of the total limitations. Besides, the decreased internal air
space explained the increase of gas-phase resistance, and the increased
liquid-phase resistance in sole NH
supply was ascribed to the thicker cell wall thickness ( T) and decreased chloroplasts exposed surface area per
unit leaf area ( S/ S). The discrepancy
of S/ S could be interpreted by the
altered chloroplasts numbers and the distance between adjacent
chloroplasts ( D). These results indicate
the alteration of T and chloroplast numbers
were the main causes of the difference in g in
coping with varied N sources.
SIROLIMUS EARLY TREATMENT IN VASCULAR ANOMALIES LEADS TO A BETTER RESPONSE
Authors: Triana Paloma , Díez-Sebastián Jesus , Rodriguez-Laguna Lara , Martinez-Glez Victor , Lopez-Gutierrez Juan Carlos
Published: January 2024

Introduction Sirolimus has become the third leg in the treatment of
vascular anomalies, initially relegated as rescue therapy for refractory
lesions but lately recommended as first line. Our objective is to
determine when it is best to start sirolimus treatment. Methods A
retrospective review of patients with vascular anomalies treated with
sirolimus during a 9-year period was performed. The variables analyzed
included subtype of vascular anomaly, age at the start of treatment,
sirolimus dosage and levels, response and duration of treatment among
others. Results 129 patients were included and classified according to
ISSVA in: tumor (7), lymphatic malformation (60), venous malformation
(16), combined malformations (26), others (22). Overall response was
positive in 90.8%. Median duration of treatment was 5.5 months (0-110).
Response was not influenced by dosage and levels, neither by subtype of
vascular anomaly, location, extension or symptoms. However the lower the
age of starting sirolimus, the better the response, mainly under 5 years
of age (p=0.004). At 6 months 67% of patients had responded while at 12
months over 84% did. By age, patients under 5 years showed positive
response at a median time of 2 months, compared to 5 and 7 months from
older patients. Time until a positive response was not influenced by
subtype neither by severity. Conclusion Overall response to sirolimus
was good and most patients responded irrespective of their severity in
location, extension or symptoms. Patients under 5 years old respond
better and faster making our goal to attempt for an early treatment.
Effectiveness of Seasonal Influenza Vaccine in Elementary and Middle Schools: A 10-Year Follow-up Investigation
Authors: Kajiume Teruyuki , Mukai Sumera , Toyota Nobutaka , Kanazawa Ikuo , Kato Akiko , Akimoto Etsushi , Shirakawa Toshio
Published: January 2024

Background: Influenza spreads from schools to the rest of the society.
Thus, we conducted questionnaire surveys of influenza vaccination in
elementary and middle schools, in a district, for 10 years, to determine
immunization rates and in-fection conditions among students that were
potential sources of infection at home. Methods: The questionnaire-
based survey on influenza vaccine administration, influenza infection,
and influenza types contracted, as well as influenza im-munization
history, was conducted in 10 seasons over a period of 10 years. Results:
Results indicate that, in elementary schools, vaccination was associated
with lower morbidity in most years, whereas in middle schools, morbidity
increased among students who were vaccinated every year. Our study did
not find consistent trends among faculty and staff. In addition, we
found that morbidity was significantly higher among elementary
(P<.001) and middle (P<.05) school students who had
been vaccinated since infancy. Conclusions: These results suggest that
vaccinating infants for influenza may increase the risk of contracting
influenza later, and thus, the influenza vaccination recommendation for
infants should be reconsidered.
Right ventricular perforation after percutaneous vertebroplasty:A case report
Authors: Teng Rong , Qin Haocheng , Zhao Jing , Yu Ming , Zhang jie , Li Yong
Published: January 2024

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is an increasingly important procedure
in orthopaedics. Bone cement leakage after PVP is a widely described
complication, which is very rare and serious when it causes cardiac
involvement. A 73-year-old man who underwent PVP for a lumbar fracture
developed chest tightness and shortness of breath 8 months after
surgery, and had a sudden syncope one year after surgery. Imaging
examination suggested a strip of foreign body in the right atrium and
the right ventricle. The patient underwent emergency open heart surgery.
The surgery was successful and the 9cm bone cement foreign body was
completely removed.
Diagnosis of acute aortic dissection presenting as acute myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction using point-of-care ultrasound: a case report
Authors: Chen Qimin , Qiu Minshan , Chen Huiying , Zhou Hongxia , Yang Xue , Chen Jie , Shao Hanquan , Gan Yu , Cai Lihua , Shen Lihan
Published: January 2024

Point-of-care ultrasonography is a non-invasive, convenient, and
reproducible method used in the diagnosis of patients admitted to the
intensive care unit. We report a case of acute aortic dissection
presenting as acute myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction
confirmed through point-of-care ultrasonography. The patient received
timely and effective treatment. However, the sensitivity of
point-of-care ultrasonography cannot be overestimated, and CTA still
needs to be combined.
Protein Kinase D1 promotes the survival of Random-pattern Skin Flaps in Rats
Authors: Chen Jianpeng , Chen Hongyu , Han Tao , Zhang Dupiao , Li Baolong , Zhou Xijie , Zhou Feiya
Published: January 2024

Background: Random-pattern skin flaps are often utilized to cover
numerous skin defects that can occur for a variety of causes, although
tissue ischemia is the most prevalent consequence that leads to surgery
failure. Protein Kinase D1 (PKD1), a calcium/calmodulin-dependent
serine/threonine kinase, has been linked to angiogenesis and has been
shown to protect against ischemic cardiovascular disease in several
studies. However, no relevant studies on skin flaps have been recorded.
Methods: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly separated into
control, PKD1, and CID755673 group. We observed postoperative survival,
laser Doppler and lead oxide/gelatin angiography were used to assess
blood flow, HE (hematoxylin and eosin) staining was used to observe
neovascularization, and determined the level of related protein
expression through Immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Results: The
PKD1 group has the largest survival area and the most abundant blood
supply. The level of angiogenesis and oxidative stress is the highest,
and the level of apoptosis is the lowest. The CID755673 group is the
opposite. Conclusion: The findings show that PKD1 increases the flap’s
survival rate and is linked to increased angiogenesis, reduced oxidative
stress, and apoptosis inhibition.
Neonatal aortic arch thrombosis in a late preterm neonate presenting with severe hypotonia, seizure and biventricular dysfunction: A rare case
Authors: Nayak Krishnananda , Mathias Hazel Lolita , Banga Gunjan , Barche Apurv , Purkayastha Jayashree , Lewis Leslie Edward , Nayak Sahana , M Manjoosha , K Prathiksha Prabhu
Published: January 2024

Neonatal aortic arch thrombosis is a rare event. The clinical entity of
aortic arch thrombosis mimics CoA or IAA. Accurate imaging assists in
precise diagnosis. We report a case of a neonate with aortic arch
thrombosis diagnosed through echocardiography.
Does intestinal microbiome diversity in wild and captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus indicus) is influenced by habitat?
Authors: Sankaranarayanan Anisha Padur , Dhanapal Sangavi , Valliyappan Mahandran , H. Shyu Douglas J. , Parthasarathy Thiruchenthil Nathan
Published: January 2024

The gut microbiome plays an important role in the physical and mental
wellbeing of animals. This depends on several factors like diet, host
physiology, age, gender, lifestyle and habitat. We studied the gut
microbiome of endangered Asian elephant Elephas maximus indicus in two
diverse habitats, namely captivity and wild. A total of 22 phylum
lodging 97 orders and 208 families have been identified using 16S rRNA
sequencing in which 90% of them belong to Phylum Firmicutes,
Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Among them, a 2-fold increase of
Phylum Verrucomicrobia in captive elephants than the wild counterparts
suggest humanising of the elephant’s gut microbiome in captivity. On the
other hand, a 10-fold decrease in the relative abundance of the Family
Planococcaceae in captive elephants implies stress due to isolation in
captivity. Elusimicrobia, Lentisphaerae, and Spirochaetes found
exclusively in captives were previously reported to be pathogenic and
are an indication of anthropogenic contamination in captive elephant’s
gut microbiome. Since the elephants in captivity have an increased
chance of contact with humans, it may lead to a radical shift in
quantitative and qualitative gut microbiome composition in captive
elephants. Interestingly, the gut microbiome of wild samples was more
even and stable compared to captive elephants. Altogether, this study
reports the massive variation present in the gut microbiome diversity
between captive and wild elephants. Besides, this also emphasizes the
necessity of further studies on the gut microbiome of elephants based on
the dietary variation that may be helpful for the conservation of these
endangered mega gardeners.
Anticancer Effect of Verteporfin on Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer via Gradual Reduction of ANO1 Protein Levels
Authors: Jeong Sung Baek , Das Raju , Kim Dong-hyun , Lee Sion , Oh Hye In , Jo Sungwoo , Kim Jeongdong , Park SeonJu , Moon Uk Yeol , Kwon Oh-bin , Namkung Wan , Lee Sungwoo , Cho Byoung Chul , Woo Joohan , Seo Yohan
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: Anoctamin 1 (ANO1) is a calcium-activated
chloride channel found in various cell types and is overexpressed in
non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a major cause of cancer-related
mortality. This study aimed to investigate whether verteporfin exerts
anticancer effects on non-small cell lung cancer by gradually reducing
ANO1 protein levels. Experimental Approach: We screened ANO1 inhibitors
for biological activity using high-throughput screening and selected
verteporfin. Subsequently, we investigated the effects of verteporfin on
NSCLC cells as well as the molecular mechanisms involved. Key Results:
Verteporfin reduced ANO1 protein levels but had no effects on its
channel function. Verteporfin did not inhibit ANO1-induced chloride
secretion but reduced ANO1 protein levels in a dose-dependent manner,
with an IC50 value of ~300 nM. Verteporfin inhibited
neither P2Y receptor-induced intracellular Ca2+ mobilization nor cystic
fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel activity.
Molecular docking studies revealed that verteporfin bound to specific
sites on ANO1 protein. Interestingly, verteporfin decreased p-EGF
receptor levels via reduction of ANO1 protein levels; however, it
increased p-ERK1/2 levels. Verteporfin reduced the viability and
migration of only ANO1-expressing cells, PC9, and gefitinib-resistant
PC9 cells, and induced apoptosis by increasing caspase-3 activity and
PARP-1 cleavage; however, it did not affect hERG channel activity.
Conclusion and Implications: These results indicate that the main
mechanism underlying verteporfin action associated with anticancer
activity involves the reduction of ANO1 protein levels.
Prediction of individualized cardiac safe dose of doxorubicin through integration of hiPSC-cardiomyocytes based in vitro testing and QSP-PK-TD model
Authors: Sang Lan , Zhou Zhengying , Luo Shizheng , Hao Kun , He Hua
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The advanced human induced pluripotent stem
cell-derived cardiomyocyte (hiPSC-CMs) technology provides a novel in
vitro platform for identification of the patients at high risk of
drug-induced cardiotoxicity. Purpose of the current study is to develop
an in vitro to in vivo translational platform to predict the incidence
of drug induced cardiac dysfunction in clinic with hiPSC-CMs based in
vitro assessment. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Doxorubicin induced
cardiotoxicity was tested in hiPSC-CMs with varied exposure levels and
durations. A mechanistic toxicodynamic (TD) model was developed to
describe the concentration-response relationship of doxorubicin induced
contraction magnitude reduction. The TD model was then integrated into a
previous developed QSP-PBPK-TD model to generate an in vitro to in vivo
translational platform. Virtual clinical trials were conducted to
predict the clinical incidence of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in
sub-populations with different drug exposures, susceptibility of
cardiomyocytes, or cardiovascular disease statuses. KEY RESULTS The
developed TD model successfully captured the concentration-response
relationship and identified the mechanism of doxorubicin induced
cardiotoxicity. The full-scale in vitro to in vivo QSP-PBPK-TD
translational platform accurately predicted the reduction of left
ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with different
myocardial susceptibilities or accepting different doxorubicin dosing
schedules. A recommended dose table has been generated for
individualized dosing of doxorubicin based on patient-specific hiPSC-CMs
readouts. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS A QSP-PBPK-TD model-based in vitro
to in vivo translational platform incorporating hiPSC-CMs-based in vitro
testing has been developed to predict drug-induced cardiotoxicity. This
platform could potentially improve accuracy of safe dose prediction for
individual patients.
Maternal and perinatal outcomes associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy, Florida, 2020–2021: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Doyle Timothy , Kiros Gebre-egziabhe , Schmitt-matzen Emily , Propper Randy , Thompson Angela , Phillips-Bell Ghasi
Published: January 2024

Objective: To estimate risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy and
assess adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Design: A
population-based, retrospective cohort. Setting: Florida, USA.
Population: All pregnancies with a live birth or fetal death from March
1, 2020 to April 30, 2021. Methods: COVID-19 case reports were matched
to vital registries. Modified Poisson and multinomial logistic
regression models were used to derive relative risk estimates. Main
Outcome Measures: Infection in pregnancy, preterm birth, maternal or
neonatal admission to and intensive care unit (ICU), fetal death.
Results: Of 234,492 women with a live birth or fetal death during the
study period, 12,976 (5.5%) were identified with COVID-19 during
pregnancy. Risk factors for COVID-19 in pregnancy included Hispanic
ethnicity (relative risk [RR]=1.89), Black race (RR=1.34), being
unmarried (RR=1.04), and being overweight or obese pre-pregnancy
(RR=1.08-1.32). COVID-19 during pregnancy was associated with preterm
birth (RR=1.31), Cesarean delivery (RR=1.04), and neonatal (RR=1.17) and
maternal (RR=3.10) ICU admission, but no association was found with
increased risk of perinatal (RR=0.72) or fetal death (RR=0.86). Women
infected during any trimester showed increased risk of preterm birth
compared to women without COVID-19. Thirteen maternal deaths were
identified among COVID-19 cases; of those who died, 11 were obese. The
death rate was 20.53 per 10,000 among obese and 1.22 per 10,000 among
non-obese gravida with COVID-19 during pregnancy (RR=16.88, P=0.001).
Conclusions: Obesity is a risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection in
pregnancy and for more severe COVID-19 illness among pregnant women.
SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with preterm birth.