bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
XPR1 promotes ovarian cancer growth and regulates MHC-I through autophagy
Authors: hu jianguo , Wang Hui , Luo Xiaodong , Tang Furong , Jiang Xingwei , Zhu Hongtao
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibitors have a poor effect in treating ovarian cancer, and the specific mechanism is unknown. The purpose of this research was to investigate the impact of XPR1 on controlling autophagy in ovarian cancer. Methods: We use CRISPR/Cas9 knockout library to screen the potential genes of autophagy regulating in ovarian cancer. Inhibiting and increasing XPR1 levels revealed the impact of XPR1 on ovarian cancer growth through both in vivo and in vitro experiments; the connection between XPR1 and LAMP1 was identified using co-immunoprecipitation; and the influence of XPR1 on subsequent protein expression was assessed through western blot analysis. Results: The findings suggested an increase in XPR1 expression in ovarian cancer tissues. The elevated level of its expression was linked to the stage of ovarian cancer, as well as overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). XPR1 enhanced the growth and spread of ovarian cancer while suppressing autophagy. Moreover, XPR1 suppressed autophagy flux by interacting with LAMP1 and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. XPR1 controlled the positioning and production of MHC-I molecules on the surfaces of ovarian cancer cells via autophagy. Silencing XPR1 combined with autophagy inhibitor chloroquine significantly inhibited tumor growth in mouse ovarian cancer models. In conclusion, the findings indicate that XPR1 could serve as a promising target for the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer. Combined autophagy inhibitors may improve the sensitivity of ovarian cancer immunotherapy.
Characteristics of the Gut Microbiota and Metabolism in Patients with Unclassified Diabetes in Adults: A Case‒Control Study
Authors: zhang juan , wu lei , zhang zhongyun , Li Danjie , Han Rulai , Ye Lei , Gu Weiqiong
Published: April 2024

Background
The classification of diabetes has become increasingly intricate. In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced a new category called "unclassified diabetes" to address this complexity. Our study, employing a multiomics approach, aimed to delineate the distinct gut microbiota and metabolic characteristics in individuals under the age of 30 with unclassified diabetes, thus shedding light on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involved.
Methods
This age- and sex-matched case‒control study involved 18 patients with unclassified diabetes, 18 patients with classic type 1 diabetes, 13 patients with type 2 diabetes, and 18 healthy individuals. Metagenomics facilitated the profiling of the gut microbiota, while untargeted liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry was used to quantify the serum lipids and metabolites.
Results
Our findings revealed a unique gut microbiota composition in unclassified diabetes patients, marked by a depletion of Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus and Clostridium and an increase in Ruminococcus torques and Lachnospiraceae bacterium 8_1_57FAA. Comparative analysis identified exclusive bacteria, serum metabolites, and clinical parameter modules within the unclassified diabetes cohort. Notably, the gut microbiota structure of patients with unclassified diabetes resembled that of type 2 diabetes patients, especially in terms of disrupted lipid and branched-chain amino acid metabolism.
Conclusions
Despite sharing certain metabolic features with type 2 diabetes, unclassified diabetes presents unique features. The distinct microbiota and metabolites in unclassified diabetes patients suggest a significant role in modulating glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, potentially influencing disease progression. Further longitudinal studies are essential to explore therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiota and metabolites to modify the disease trajectory.
COBI: A Coupled Oscillator Based Ising Chip for Combinatorial Optimization
Authors: Karpuzcu Ulya , Cıl Hüsrev , Moy William , Zeng Ziqing , Islam Tahmida , Lo Hao , Vanasse Alex , Tan Megan , Anees Mohammad , S Ramprasath , Kumar Abhimanyu , Sapatnekar Sachin , Kim Chris H.
Published: April 2024

Numerous critical real-world problems, related to applications ranging from machine learning to smart grid design to bioinformatics to robotics, can be formulated as combinatorial optimization problems (COPs). Unfortunately, for the vast majority, the computational resources required to find an optimal solution using conventional von Neumann computers skyrocket with growing problem sizes. For these problems, alternative solvers based on Ising machines, which directly leverage equilibrium characteristics of physical systems, show great potential. We demonstrate a novel, coupled oscillator-based all-to-all connected Ising machine manufactured in 65nm CMOS, COBI, operating at room temperature. We provide a detailed quantitative characterization and showcase how the COBI chip can solve representative COPs in a much more time- and energy- efficient manner than highly optimized classical solvers in software and emerging quantum annealers. Most significantly, due to its energy-efficiency and all-to-all connectivity, COBI can also efficiently solve dense COPs that cannot be effectively mapped or solved by emerging quantum annealers.
Recruitment curves of three non-native conifers in European temperate forests: implications for invasions
Authors: Fanal Aurore , Mahy Grégory , Monty Arnaud
Published: April 2024

Few conifers are considered invasive in Europe, yet recent studies indicate that several species used for forestry display abundant regeneration and spread into surrounding natural habitats. Three species were identified as being particularly at risk in Belgium, but data is lacking regarding their dispersal. We characterized the recruitment curves of Tsuga heterophylla, Abies grandis and Thuja plicata. Isolated plantations were monitored and realized dispersal (i.e. seedlings and recruited regeneration) was exhaustively recorded and measured over 750 meters in different directions. We calculated the wave expansion rate and frontier expansion rate for each planting site, and fitted dispersal kernels for each site and species. Regeneration was classified in three size categories (seedlings, saplings and trees above 1.5 m), and the recruitment distances were analyzed for each size class. The effect of the forest type (deciduous, coniferous, open or mixed) on the density of regeneration was also investigated with regression models. The recruitment curves varied greatly across sites, showing heterogeneous habitat suitability and uneven post-germination processes. Considering the frontier expansion rate, the three conifers appear to spread beyond documented threshold rate of invasiveness. Regeneration density was higher in coniferous forest type, as well as open areas for Tsuga heterophylla. An escape effect was noticed as mean and maximal dispersal distances of saplings and taller trees were greater than those of seedlings. Our study indicates that Tsuga heterophylla displays the highest risk of rapid spread into adjacent natural habitats, followed by Abies grandis. Thuja plicata faces more recruitment limitations.
Fragile X mental retardation protein regulates glycolytic gene expression under chronic hypoxia
Authors: Kawata Kentaro , Zhang Zaijun , Ogura Yoko , Sun Xiaoning , Ozeki Atsuko Nakanishi , Taniue Kenzui , Onoguchi-Mizutani Rena , Adachi Shungo , Nakayama Koh , Goda Nobuhito , Akimitsu Nobuyoshi
Published: April 2024

Oxygen shortage, known as hypoxia, occurs commonly in both physiological and pathological conditions. Transcriptional regulation by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) is a dominant regulatory mechanism controlling hypoxia-responsive genes during acute hypoxia; however, recent studies suggest that post-transcriptional regulation, including RNA degradation, also involves hypoxia-induced gene expression during the chronic hypoxia. In this study, we developed a method to quantify the contributions of RNA synthesis and degradation to differential gene expression, and identified 102 genes mainly regulated via RNA degradation under chronic hypoxia in HCT116 cells. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the genes mainly regulated by RNA degradation were involved in glycolysis. Combinatory analysis of experimental approach using RNA interactome capture and statistical analysis using public databases, and followed depletion assays identified that an RNA-binding protein fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) enhances the expression of mRNAs encoding rate-limiting enzymes for glycolysis under chronic hypoxia. This study emphasizes the importance of post-transcriptional gene regulation under chronic hypoxia.
Diagnostic Value of Interleukin-6 in Acute Kawasaki Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhu Wenjing , Yuan Hui , Dai Ying , Qi Yuning , Xu Qian , Lv Jianli
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute vasculitis affecting mainly young children and can cause serious coronary artery abnormalities. This study evaluated interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a biomarker for early KD diagnosis and treatment.
Methods
In a retrospective study, 275 children with acute KD were analyzed, alongside 109 children with other infectious diseases, to assess IL-6's diagnostic specificity. Patients were categorized by coronary artery lesions (CAL) presence and KD type.
Results
Of the KD patients (mean age 2.45 years), 84 had CAL. IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with CAL (223.56 pg/mL) versus without (95.18 pg/mL, p < 0.05) and compared to other infectious diseases (134.86 pg/mL vs. 33.38 pg/mL, p < 0.05). The optimal IL-6 cutoff for predicting CAL had a sensitivity and specificity of 0.6. IL-6 correlated with C-reactive protein (r = 0.404), but no difference was found between typical and incomplete KD.
Conclusions
Elevated IL-6 levels in acute KD, particularly with CAL, suggest its utility as a diagnostic biomarker. Further studies are needed to confirm IL-6's diagnostic role.
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of dialysis patients with metastatic calcification diagnosed by 99mTc-MDP bone scintigraphy
Authors: Wang Ju , Wang Xinliang , Xiao Jianping , Wang Deguang
Published: April 2024

Objective: To analyse the clinical characteristics of patients with metastatic calcification combined with maintenance dialysis.
Methods: Patients diagnosed with metastatic calcification by 99mTc-MDP bone scintigraphy from June 2019 to March 2023 in our hospital. All patients were followed from the diagnosis until death, loss to follow-up, or study endpoint time (2023.07). The primary endpoint observational event was all-cause mortality.
Results: There were 7 males and 3 females with an mean age of (49.2±10.6) years. The most common sites of metastatic calcification were lungs, joints, and skin, other rare sites were stomach, myocardium, and mandibular angle. 9 patients were treated with sodium thiosulfate(STS) and the mean duration medication of STS was 23.5(13.25，56.5) days. The mean follow-up time was 14(10,20) months, 1 case died, 1 case was loss to follow-up, 8(8/10) cases survived, and 6(6/10) cases were followed for more than 1 year.
Conclusion: 99mTc-MDP bone scintigraphy has a high sensitivity and specificity for metastatic calcification, and the most common sites of metastatic calcification are lungs, joints, and skin, while the other rare sites are stomach, myocardium, and mandibular angle.8 patients (8/10) survived, and 6 patients (6/10) were alive with more than 1 year of follow-up.
How dietary landscapes impact food allergy
Authors: Nanan Ralph , Ni Duan , Senior Alistair , Tan Jian , Macia Laurence
Published: April 2024

Diets and environments are critical determinants for food allergy development. Harnessing unprecedented epidemiological and nutritional data, we examined the overall dietary environments for common food allergens and their intrinsic nutrient composition. We found that food and macronutrient supplies minimally impacted food allergy prevalence, but higher protein and glycine in food allergens correlated with less allergies. These findings offer new directions in food allergy research and management.
Respiratory Chain Complex I Deficiency in Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy: Insights from Ophthalmologic and Molecular Investigations in Tunisia
Authors: Chkioua Latifa , Amri Yessine , Sahli Chayma , Nasri Tawfik , Miladi Mohamed Omar , Massoud Taieb , Laradi Sandrine , Ghorbel Mohamed , Abdennebi Hassen Ben
Published: April 2024

Background
Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) rare disease due to the mutation of the NADH dehydrogenase enzyme. LHON is characterized by a sudden central vision loss due to focal degeneration of the retinal ganglion cell layer and optic nerve. Symptoms usually appear between the age of 18 and 35 years. Some individuals present the mtDNA mutations but do not express this disease. The heteroplasmic or homoplasmic character of the mutations among patients explains why they develop the disease or not even though they carry the mutation.
Methods
This study was performed in collaboration with the department of ophthalmology of Farhat Hached Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia. Screening for the common mutations in ND1 gene (mt.3460G > A), ND4 gene (mt.11778G > A) and ND6 gene (mt.14484T > C) was performed in five Tunisian families by standard RFLP PCR, followed by direct sequencing of the entire of these genes. Indeed, bioinformatics tools were used to predict the potential functional impact of the identified mutations on the Human mitochondrial respiratory complex I protein.
Results
one novel p.Leu601Met (m.14137C > A), and four previously reported mutations were identified in this study including: rs199476112G > A (m.11778G > A); rs202227543G > A (m.14258G > A); m.3244G > C, rs1603224763 (m.14510 dup) and NC_012920.1:m.3244G > C. In this present report, only one patient was found carrying the primary point mutation (m.G11778A). The ophthalmologic findings showing major fundus changes included hyperemic optic discs; disc pseudo-oedema and microangiopathy leading to optic disc atrophy. The analyses of the stability of protein upon identified mutations using DynaMut tool server demonstrated that these variations induce a rigidification in the region where they are located.
Conclusion
This is the first Tunisian report of mtDNA mutations identified in Tunisia causing the LHON. The main factors involved in the pathophysiological mechanisms of this disease are genetic, epigenetic, hormonal and environmental influences.
Comparing Magnetic Field Distribution of Active Regions: Part 1 Methods of Mode Analysis
Authors: Bhowmik P. , Prior C. B.
Published: April 2024

We develop methods for comparing solar active region magnetic fields using two forms of mode analysis. These methods are designed to compare magnetogram data between differing fields, and also to compare the varying nature of the magnetic structure with height in solar active region magnetic fields. The first mode decomposition is a Zernike polynomial analysis, the planar counterpart of a spherical polar decomposition, which is applicable to most Cartesian solar active regions models as well as CEA magnetogram data. The second method is a spatial multi-resolution (wavelet) analysis which allows for the both scale and spatial analysis. In this study we use these decompositions to compare and contrast magnetogram data derived from convective flux emergence experiments with observed active region data, in order to assess their viability as models of active region formation. We show that both elements: a significant contribution from convective distortion in the model, and the choice of physical mechanism by which the field propelled to emerge through the photosphere are critical in order for simulations to accurately recreate the spectral properties of active region fields.
Esophageal button battery impactions in children: An analysis of 89 cases
Authors: Xu Guo , Jia Desheng , Chen Jing , Pan Hongguang , Wu Zebin
Published: April 2024

Objective
To analyze the clinical characteristics of esophageal button battery impactions in children and explore safe and effective treatment methods.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single tertiary care center, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, encompassing 89 children diagnosed with esophageal button battery impactions between January 2013 and January 2023. To minimize esophageal mucosal corrosion, prompt removal of the button battery with a first-aid fast track rigid esophagoscopy under general anesthesia was performed within thirty minutes of diagnosis. The clinical features and complications were recorded and analyzed.
Results
Button battery as esophageal foreign body was prevalent among children under 3 years old (79.8%), with boys exhibiting a higher incidence rate (56.2%) compared to girls (43.8%), and an average age of 25.8 months. The median duration from ingestion to hospital admission was 3 hours (range: 0.5 hours to 3 months). Common symptoms included vomiting and dysphagia, with early stage vomiting of brown foamy secretions being a characteristic presentation of esophageal button battery impactions. The majority (77.5%) of batteries were lodged in the upper esophagus. The larger batteries were verified to be more prone to complications. All 89 cases exhibited varying degrees of esophageal mucosal erosion, with 31 cases (34.8%) experiencing severe complications, including esophageal stenosis in 11 cases (35.5%), esophageal perforation in 9 cases (29%) with 4 cases of tracheoesophageal fistula, vocal cord paralysis in 6 cases (19.4%), hemorrhage in 2 cases (6.5%), mediastinitis in 2 cases (6.5%), and periesophageal abscess in 1 case (3.2%). Despite the severity of these complications, none of the patients died after emergency surgery.
Conclusion
Esophageal button battery impactions can lead to significant damage to the esophageal mucosa due to its strong corrosiveness. Prompt action is crucial to mitigate the risk of complications. For the first time, we implement a first-aid fast track surgical intervention following diagnosis is imperative to minimize the incidence of adverse outcomes.
Experimental Study on Water Stability of Leachate Sludge Solidified /Stabilized by Sulfoaluminate Cement Combined with municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI)
Authors: Liang Shihua , Zhou Lirui , Ou Zhisheng , Feng Deluan
Published: April 2024

The leachate sludge is a by-product of municipal solid waste (MSW) leachate disposed by biochemical treatment. In this study, the leachate sludge was solidified with sulfoaluminate cement (SAC) blended with a certain amount of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash. The sludge and cement were mixed well according to a certain ratio, placed in a standard curing box for 28 d and then taken out for water immersion test, with the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and water softening resistance coefficient (Rf) of the sludge-cement solidified body as the evaluation indexes. In order to explore the water stability of sulfoaluminate cement combined with municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash solidified stabilized leachate sludge, the test of strength properties of fly ash-sulfoaluminate cement solidified sludge under immersion conditions was carried out. Fly ash showed good effect in improving the water stability of leachate sludge, and the test results showed that: MSWI fly ash is an effective auxiliary curing agent for sulfoaluminate cement curing leachate sludge, but fly ash doping is not the higher the better, under the condition of the same cement doping, each group of curing specimens for the strength enhancement at 28d have an optimal fly ash doping, which are 10% (cement doping ≤ 20%) and 15% (cement dosage >20%). It can be concluded from the water stability experiments that, in the case of less total curing agent dosage, replacing 10% of cement with 10% of fly ash can achieve better curing effect of leachate sludge, while in the case of more curing agent dosage, the curing effect is better when only cement is used as the curing agent.
Predictive value of dynamic diffusion tensor imaging for surgical outcomes in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Authors: Wang Xiaoyun , Tian Xiaonan , Zhang Yujin , Zhao Baogen , Wang Ning , Gao Ting , Zhang Li
Published: April 2024

Background： Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is the most common chronic spinal cord injury with poor surgical and neurologic recovery in the advanced stages of the disease. DTI parameters can serve as important biomarkers for CSM prognosis. The study aimed to investigate the predictive value of dynamic diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for the postoperative outcomes of CSM.
Methods: One hundred and five patients with CSM who underwent surgery were included in this study. Patients were assessed using mJOA before and one year after surgery and then divided into groups with good (≥50%) and poor (<50%) prognoses according to the rate of recovery. All patients underwent preoperative dynamic magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine, including T2WI and DTI in natural（N）, extension （E）, and flexion（F） positions. Cross-sectional area, fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were measured at the narrowest level in three neck positions. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify risk factors for poor postoperative recovery based on clinical characteristics, dynamic T2WI, and DTI parameters. Predictive models were developed for three different neck positions.
Results: Forty-four (41.9%) patients had a good postoperative prognosis, and 61 (58.1%) had a poor prognosis. Univariate analysis showed statistically significant differences in diabetes, number of compression segments, preoperative score, cross-sectional area ((Area-N), (Area-E), (Area-F)), ADC(ADC-N), (ADC-E), (ADC-F)) and FA (natural neck position (FA-N), (FA-E), (FA-F)) (p<0.05). Multivariable logistic regression showed that natural neck position: Area-N ([OR] 0.226; [CI] 0.069-0.732, p=0.013), FA-N ([OR] 3.028; [CI] 1.12-8.19, p=0.029);extension neck position:Area-E ([OR]0.248;[CI]0.076-0.814,p=0.021),FA-E ([OR]4.793;[CI]1.737-13.228,p=0.002); And flextion postion: Area-F([OR] 0.288; [CI] 0.095-0.87, p=0.027), FA-F ([OR] 2.964; [CI] 1.126-7.801, p=0.028) were independent risk factors for poor prognosis.The area under the curve (AUC) of the prediction models in the natural neck position, extension neck position and flexion neck positions models were 0.734, 0.760 and 0.730, respectively.
Conclusion: Dynamic DTI can predict postoperative outcomes in CSM. Reduced FA in the extension position is a valid predictor of poor postoperative neurological recovery in patients with CSM.
Non-Communicating Rudimentary Horn Pregnancy Presenting as a Second Trimester Missed Abortion: A Case Report
Authors: TEKLU HANNA , FESSEHAYE ABRAHAM , GODIE YOHANNES
Published: April 2024

Non-communing rudimentary horn pregnancy can present as missed abortion and medication abortion should be avoided in such cases as it may precipitate uterine rupture. The definitive diagnosis is made by laparoscopy or laparotomy especially in those cases complicated with uterine rupture. Second trimester missed abortion cases should undergo a meticulous ultrasound evaluation before proceeding with abortion care and a diagnosis of unicornate uterus with a rudimentary horn pregnancy should be considered.
TikTok and Pediatric Nephrology: Content Quality Assessment of Videos Related to Pediatric Kidney Disease and Kidney Transplant
Authors: Sturm Hannah , Abdullah Mahie , Anand Arshia , Sethna Jonah , Frank Rachel , Castellanos Laura , Singer Pamela , Basalely Abby
Published: April 2024

Background
Social media platforms such as TikTok™ are key sources of health information for young patients and caregivers. Misinformation is prevalent on TikTok™ across healthcare fields, which can perpetuate false beliefs about medical care. Limited data exists on the reliability of pediatric nephrology TikTok™ content. This study aimed to describe the quality of medical content of TikTok™ Videos (TTVs), related to pediatric kidney disease and transplant.
Methods
TTVs were selected using specific search terms and categorized into pediatric kidney disease and kidney transplant, excluding duplicate and adult-related content. The top 100 TTVs in each category, based on views, were analyzed. TTV characteristics were stratified by account type [physician, non-physician healthcare professional (HCP), non-HCP] and video aim (personal story, education, entertainment). DISCERN scoring, a validated questionnaire evaluating health information reliability, was conducted by 4 independent raters. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using a 2-way random effects model and differences between content creator types were evaluated using one-way ANOVA and post-Hoc Tukey test.
Results
TTVs had a total of 12.5 million likes and 113.1 million views. Over 70% of videos were created by non-HCPs (n = 147/200). DISCERN scoring revealed low reliability of medical information across content creator types. TTVs created by physicians and non-physician HCPs about kidney disease had significantly higher mean DISCERN scores compared to those created by non-HCPs (2.85, p < 0.001 and 2.48, p = 0.005 respectively).
Conclusions
Educators within the pediatric nephrology community must keep in mind the lack of reliability of medical information available on TikTok™ and coordinate collective efforts to consider utilizing TikTok™ for patient education.
Impact of adjuvant interstitial brachytherapy on lengths of stay, discharge disposition, and 30-/90-day readmission for malignant brain tumor patients: a National Readmission Database analysis
Authors: Sun Kevin W. , Zhu Ping , Do Truong H. , Chen Clark C.
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Advances in interstitial brachytherapy for brain cancers have revived interest in this treatment platform. However, the impact of this therapy on hospital quality measures remains poorly characterized. Here we utilized the National Readmission Database (NRD) to address this gap in knowledge.
Methods: We identified patients with malignant brain tumors who had undergone either craniotomies (C) for tumor resection or craniotomies augmented with adjuvant interstitial brachytherapy (C+IB) in the National Readmission Database (NRD, 2010-2018). Propensity-score weighting and survey regression techniques were used for analysis.
Results: Over the study period, the number of craniotomies with adjuvant interstitial brachytherapy (C+IB) steadily decreased. For brain metastasis (BM) patients, C+IB and C patients exhibited comparable length of hospital stay (aIRR:1.01, CI95:0.86-1.18, p=0.918) and routine discharge to home or self-care (aOR:0.95, CI95:0.61-1.50, p=0.838). However, primary brain tumor (PBT) patients who underwent C+IB showed longer hospital stay (aIRR:1.43, CI95:1.03-1.99, p=0.032) and are less likely to undergo routine discharge (aOR: 0.38, CI95:0.20-0.74, p=0.005) relative to the C cohort. Despite these differences, C+IB and C patients showed comparable 30- or 90- day readmission risk. The profile of readmission diagnoses was also similar. Cost-analysis suggests that IB increased the median total charge by $19,184 (p=0.003).
Conclusions: Our NRD analysis suggests that adjuvant interstitial brachytherapy did not alter hospital course/readmission risk for brain metastasis patients. However, primary brain tumor patients who underwent this therapy showed longer hospitalization and increased likelihood for non-routine discharge.
Pigmented adrenocortical adenoma: a case report
Authors: ye hongzhi , Feng Run-lin , Wen Dai-yan , Wei Hai-rong , Li Xiang-meng , Xi Liang , Yuan Shun-hui
Published: April 2024

Pigmentary adrenal cortical adenoma is a special type of adrenal adenoma. The adenoma cells contain a large amount of lipofuscin or neuromelanin, which is brown-black in visual appearance. According to the reports of many cases, the incidence probability is not clear at present. Therefore, it is a topic worth exploring in terms of preferred treatment, pathological diagnosis and differentiation from other types of adrenal adenomas. Here we report a case of a nonfunctional pigmentary adrenocortical adenoma with a specific pathological pattern, the diagnosis of which depends on postoperative pathological examination and immunohistochemical examination. Surgical resection is the main treatment for this disease, most of the benign tumors have a good prognosis, and long-term postoperative follow-up should be carried out for potential malignant adrenal cortical adenomas.
A Rare Case of Ventricular Tachycardia Caused by an Intramyocardial Fibroma with Successful Surgical Resection in an Adult
Authors: Binder M. Scott , Roby Matthew , Chancellor Zach , Yarboro Leora , Arnold Scott , Kern John , Sane David
Published: April 2024

Background
Cardiac fibromas are extremely rare in adults. The preferred treatment is surgical resection, but antiarrhythmic medications or heart transplantation have also been used previously. The cardiac imaging, particularly MRI, can be useful to help delineate between primary cardiac tumors, and surgical factors such as the extent/size of the fibroma, involvement of the coronary arteries or mitral apparatus and amount of residual myocardium influence whether surgical resection is feasible.
Case Presentation
A 42-year-old male presented with a wide-complex tachycardia, unresponsive to amiodarone. An echocardiogram was performed which showed a possible posterior wall mass. A cardiac MRI showed a well circumscribed lateral wall intracardiac fibroma, measuring 5.2x5.1x3.8cm with preserved function. Surgical resection was successful, and he was discharged without a defibrillator.
Conclusions
Cardiac fibromas are encapsulated tumors which do not infiltrate myocardium and should be surgically resected if possible.
Proteomic and Phosphoproteomic Landscapes of Azole Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus Biofilm Exposed to Voriconazole
Authors: Hong Pianpian , Zheng Nan , Wei Tianqi , Zhang Yuhan , Zhu Feilan , Chen Yuping , She Xiaodong , Liu Weida , Liu Musang
Published: April 2024

Aspergillus fumigatus, an opportunistic and allergenic pathogenic fungus, is responsible for a range of clinical disorders in humans, including invasive aspergillosis (IA), which can lead to severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. Unfortunately, the emergence of azole resistance has become a significant challenge in combating IA, necessitating further investigations into the underlying mechanisms of resistance. In this study, we conducted an integrated proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis of biofilm proteins from both azole-resistant and wildtype strains of A. fumigatus under voriconazole pressure. Our proteomic analysis identified 148 upregulated and 146 downregulated proteins in the azole-resistant strains, while phosphoproteomic analysis revealed 316 upregulated phosphopeptides and 109 downregulated phosphopeptides, suggesting extensive phosphorylation modifications associated with azole resistance. Upon excluding the impact of protein changes, we identified 133 proteins with differential expression solely at the phosphorylation level, comprising 104 upregulated and 29 downregulated proteins. Functional annotation and analysis highlighted the significance of these differentially expressed phosphoproteins in cell wall integrity, filamentous growth, and high-osmolarity stress response, with 33 MAPK pathway-associated proteins displaying phosphopeptide level regulation. These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms behind azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus and offer potential new drug targets for combating this pathogenic fungus in humans.
Comparative Analysis of PI and Fuzzy Logic Controller for Grid Connected Wind Turbine
Authors: Bahgat Mohamed , Ezzat Mohamed , Attia Mahmoud A. , Mekhamer S. F. , Elbehairy Nourhan M.
Published: April 2024

This research is dedicated to improving the control system of wind turbines (WT) to ensure optimal efficiency and rapid responsiveness. To achieve this, the fuzzy logic control (FLC) method is implemented to control the converter in the rotor side (RSC) of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) and its performance is compared with an optimized proportional integral (PI) controller. The optimization process is implemented for the controllers of both the grid side converter (GSC) and RSC. Through simulated analyses conducted using MATLAB/Simulink software, comprehensive assessments are carried out. The robustness of the FLC is evaluated in contrast to the optimized controllers across various wind profiles and challenging operational scenarios. The results demonstrate satisfactory performance of the FLC in terms of steady-state time, stability, and precision under diverse wind speed profiles.
Person Re-identification Network Based on Multi-Level Feature Fusion
Authors: Li Junchen , Li Yinbei , Yang Jiaqiang , Ma Yuliang
Published: April 2024

The challenge of person re-identification (Re-ID) in intelligent security and smart city applications is compounded by pedestrian occlusion, which significantly reduces recognition accuracy due to the loss of feature information and the introduction of occlusion noise. To address this challenge, we propose a person Re-ID network based on multi-level feature fusion, enhancing recognition accuracy. Our network incorporates a feature extraction method that extracts both high level semantic and low level fine detail information from the pedestrian images, thereby improving the network's robustness against interference and variation. Furthermore, our network includes a feature fusion module that integrates global and local fine-grained features to enhance the model's generalization capability for Re-ID tasks. By incorporating a hard sample triplet loss, the proposed network effectively addresses inter-class similarity and intra-class differences. Our model achieves an mAP of 89.5% and Rank-1 accuracy of 95.8% on the Market-1501 dataset, outperforming all the existing methods.
Analysis of Vibration Signal Modulation Mechanism of Planetary Gear Set Under the Influence of Nonlinear Factors
Authors: Jing Hongxiang , Zhen Dong , Feng Guojin , Liang Xiaoxia , Zhang Hao , Gu Fengshou
Published: April 2024

The vibration signals of a planetary gear set exhibit rich spectra that can reflect its operating states. In previous phenomenological models, the sidebands are mostly explored under the condition of constant speed. However, the vibration signal is not only affected by internal nonlinear factors such as velocity fluctuations, fault excitation and manufacturing errors, but also by transmission path effects that cause the vibration signal to be further modulated, making it difficult to recognize fault characteristics. To solve this problem, this paper characterizes the actual rotational speed fluctuation through Fourier series, deduces the excitation force model by comprehensively considering the manufacturing error and fault excitation, and establishes a vibration signal model of the planetary gear set by considering the influence of the transmission path effect. Simulation results show that manufacturing errors and sun gear faults cause the meshing frequency to be modulated by the sun gear rotational frequency. Moreover, the vibration signal model considering speed fluctuation reflects the fault characteristic frequency, and the harmonics of the fault characteristic frequency are modulated by the planetary carrier rotational frequency. The spectral distribution pattern is consistent with the frequency distribution of the experimental signal, verifying the accuracy of the model.
Preparation and Preliminary Application of Fluorescent Microsphere Test Strips for Feline Parvovirus Antibodies
Authors: Shang Jinyuan , Yan Manping , Zhang Xiaohao , Liu Wei , Wu Shun , Wang Zhenjun , Yi Li , Wang Chunxia , Feng Erkai , Cheng Yuening , Luo Guoliang
Published: April 2024

This study introduces a novel diagnostic modality for the detection of feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) antibodies in feline serum by using fluorescent microsphere immunochromatographic test strips (FM-ICTS). Leveraging the inherent specificity of antigen-antibody interactions, the FM-ICTS approach demonstrates considerable potential for efficient and accurate FPV antibody detection within a short timeframe. Through rigorous sensitivity and specificity assessments, the method exhibits commendable diagnostic performance, exhibiting favourable accuracy and stability characteristics over an extended period. The clinical validation involving 84 samples underscores the reliability of the test by corroborating its outcomes with established haemagglutination inhibition (HI) assays. This innovative FM-ICTS framework emerges as a promising avenue for expedient and dependable disease diagnosis within the realm of veterinary science, offering implications for timely disease management and surveillance.
The effect of antibacterial peptide ε-Polylysine against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm in marine environment
Authors: Jiang Quantong , Wu Siwei , Lu Dongzhu , Zhai Xiaofan , Duan Jizhou , Hou Baorong
Published: April 2024

Natural agents with antimicrobial properties have a broad potential to resist biofilm adhesion in marine environments. ε-Polylysine (E-PL) is a natural cationic, homomeric polymer with 25–30 lysine residues that can resist microbial biofilm adhesion due to its stability, nontoxicity, and biodegradability. The current study investigated the action of E-PL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm isolated from a marine environment. Crystal violet staining was used to examine the effects of E-PL on the formation and destruction of mature biofilms. Scanning Electron and fluorescence microscopy revealed that E-PL treatment damaged the biofilm structure and affected the secretion of extracellular polymers. The CCK8 colorimetric assay showed that E-PL also decreased the metabolic activity and motility of biofilm bacteria. QPCR and transcriptome analysis revealed that E-PL affected biofilm formation and transcriptional regulation by downregulating genes involved in flagellar synthesis (flgE, PA4651, pilW), chemotaxis transduction (PA1251, PA4951, PA4788), biofilm biosynthesis (pelC, pelD, pslK, plsM), transcriptional regulation (PA3973, PA3508, PA0268), phenazine biosynthesis (phzM, phzH, phzS), and electron transfer (PA5401, PA5400, PA3492). This study used multiple methods to identify the mechanism of E-PL action against biofilm, informing the design of novel biofilm treatment methods.
Characterization and fine mapping of Double-grain (Dgs) mutant in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]
Authors: Liang Shanshan , Zhou Shichen , Yi Zhiben , Tian Yanbao , Qin Mao , Wang Jiahan , Hu Youchuan , Liang Dan , Zhang Siju , Ma Xuan , Yunhai Li , Luan Weijiang
Published: April 2024

The sorghum inflorescence is consisted of sessile (SS) and pedicellate spikelets (PS). Commonly, only SS could produce seeds and each spikelet produces one single seed. Here, we identified a sorghum mutant, named Double-grain (Dgs), which can produce twin seeds in each pair of glumes. We characterized the developmental process of inflorescence in Dgs and Jinliang 5 (Jin5, a single-seeded variety) using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results showed that at the stamen and pistil differentiation stage, Dgs could develop two sets of stamens and carpel in one sessile floret, which resulted in twin-seeded phenotype in Dgs. Two F2 mapping populations derived the cross between Jin5 and Dgs, and BTx622B and Dgs, were constructed, respectively. The genetic analysis showed that Dgs trait was controlled by a single dominant gene. Through bulk segregation analysis with whole-genome sequencing (BSA-seq) and linkage analysis, Dgs locus was delimited into a region of around 210-kb on chromosome 6, between the markers SmoSR24 and SSR47, which contained 32 putative genes. Further analysis indicates that Sobic.006G249000 or Sobic.006G249100 may be responsible for the twin-seeded phenotype. This result will be useful for map-based cloning of the Dgs gene and for marker-assisted breeding for increased grain number per panicle in sorghum.
Septum of the Penis – dissection, anatomical description and functional relevance
Authors: Filipoiu Florin-Mihail , Ion Radu-Tudor , Filipoiu Zoran Florin , Tulin Adrian-Daniel , Enciu Octavian , Enyedi Mihaly
Published: April 2024

Background. The septum of the penis or the pectiniform septum (from Latina pecten) is a connective structure that separates the two corpora cavernosa of the penis. It is formed through the joining of the circular fibers of the tunica albuginea, which envelops the corpora cavernosa. The septum neither completely separates, nor entirely joins the two corpora cavernosa.
Results. We dissected the penile septum in 10 formalized bodies. We identified the penile septum as a structure consisting of clusters of tendinous cords incompletely separating the two cavernous structures. The septum completely separates the two corpora cavernosa in its posterior segment. As we progress forward, the septum starts resembling the tendinous cords that attach on the papillary muscles of the heart. These cords are differentiated from the internal layer of the albuginea of each corpus cavernosum. We evaluated the opportunity of considering the anterior and posterior intercavernous ligaments as septal structures.
Conclusion. In this type of construction, the septum maintains both the hemodynamic and mechanical coherence of the cavernous structures and allows penile movement more efficiently than a continuous septal structure. The septum enables the lengthening of the penis and simultaneous filling with blood of both its corpora cavernosa through the transseptal vascular anastomosis. This allows for penile deformation during erection to be avoided.
A sustainable chemiosmotic strategy for driving solute transport in synthetic cells
Authors: Poolman Bert , Ruiz Miyer Patino , Anshari Zaid , Gaastra Bauke , Slotboom Dirk
Published: April 2024

Cellular homeostasis requires sustained provision of metabolic energy in the form of ATP and electrochemical ion gradients. Primary and secondary active transporters are prominent consumers of cellular energy, and couple ATP hydrolysis and ion gradient dissipation, respectively, to translocation of molecules across biological membranes. Active transport is essential for the translocation of most charged and/or large hydrophilic molecules, both for nutrient uptake into and waste export from living cells. Endeavours to build synthetic cells crucially depend on simulating real cell behaviour by supplying stable and sustained energy sources and deploying them for membrane transport. Here, we provide synthetic cells with long-lasting metabolic energy supply in the form of an electrochemical proton gradient. Leveraging the L-malate decarboxylation pathway from Lactococcus lactis we generate a stable proton gradient and electrical potential in lipid vesicles by electrogenic L-malate/L-lactate exchange coupled to L-malate decarboxylation. By co-reconstitution of the pathway with the Escherichia coli transporters GltP and LacY, the synthetic cells maintain accumulation of L-glutamate and lactose over periods of hours, mimicking nutrient feeding in living cells. This study underscores the potential of harnessing a proton motive force via a simple metabolic network, involving electrogenic substrate/product exchange and substrate decarboxylation, paving the way for the development of more complex synthetic systems.
Development and assessment of a Manual and Automated PID Controllers for the Optimum Production of Ethylene Glycol in a CSTR
Authors: Wosu Chimene Omeke , Ezeh Ernest Mbsmalu , Elias Ojong Ojong
Published: April 2024

Industrially, one of the techniques used to enhance the optimum production of petrochemicals is the configuration of process control units such as gas chromatography (G.C. Analyzer) for concentration and thermocouple for temperature in the production system. This research focused on the application of the principles of mass and energy conservation in the development of dynamic or unsteady state models for predicting the behaviour of the system or process involved in the production of ethylene glycol from a reaction involving oxidation of ethylene to ethylene oxide which further undergoes hydrolysis to produce ethylene glycol in a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). The high mathematical complexities of the mass and energy balance models of the Process as a result of the reaction kinetic scheme of the non-elementary reaction of the process which integrates both linear and non-linear terms into the models were resolved by applying the principles of Taylor’s series expansion, Laplace Transform, partial fraction and matrix appropriately in the development of the dynamic models. Process simulation tool Simulink was utilized in the configuration of closed-loop systems (thermocouple and G. C. Analyzer) at the feed point of the reactor for process variables (temperature and concentration) control during the process using proportional, integral and derivative (PID) as the controller parameters. The results of the process behaviour as shown in the temperature and concentration profiles versus time show that the use of manual tuning of different controller parameters (PID) of (0, 1 and 0), (0, 2 and 3) and (1.5,0.5 and 0) for temperature control and (3,0 and 0), (0,1 and 2) and (4,1 and 2) for concentration. The system experienced a high level of fluctuations and would not attain its stability or steady state even at process time above 16seconds. Whereas, the use of automatic tuning of desired controller gains of (1.361, 1.056 and 0.4109) for KP, KI and KD (PID) for temperature and pressure with tuning of 143.9 times requires a maximum time of 8 seconds for the system to attain stability. Ths study showed that automated tuning of the controller resulted in better performance characteristics for optimum production of ethylene glycol in a non-isotheral continuous stirred tank reactor within the shortest possible time.
Dehydration of tomato products under electrical processing conditions
Authors: Eshpulatov Nodir , Toshmamatov Nurmirza , Samieva Zumrad , Agaliyeva Khabiba , Yusupova Adolat , Khamidov Yusup
Published: April 2024

The study is devoted to studying the influence of electrical treatment on the processes of dehydration of tomato products. Methods for electroplasmolysis of raw materials have been developed and experimentally confirmed to promote the effective release of structured moisture at low temperatures, which significantly reduces heat treatment time and speeds up the process of obtaining tomato paste. It has been revealed that when using electroplasmolysis at elevated temperatures, the efficiency of the process is significantly reduced. It was also found that the concentration of dry substances in raw materials affects the temperature limit of dehydration, which can be a key factor in optimizing production processes. The importance of taking into account the initial proportion of free water in the raw material to achieve a given solids concentration in the final product is also emphasized. These results may be useful for optimizing dehydration processes and production of tomato products.