bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae - a neglected disease as a cause of fibrinous pericarditis in weaned piglets: An etio-pathological assessment
Authors: Patel Shailesh Kumar , Sahoo Monalisa , Pathak Mamta , Saikumar G. , Thakor Jigarji Chaturji , Dinesh M. , Anbazhagan Subbaiyan , Singh Rajendra , Singh Karampal , Patel Sagar , Sahoo Prabin Kumar , Pasayat Mamata , Sahoo Nihar
Published: November 2023

Fibrinous pericarditis, predominantly of bacterial origin, is frequently documented in slaughtered pigs causing great economic loss to the pig production. The present report describes the rare cases of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniaeinduced fibrinous pericarditis in post-weaned crossbred piglets (n=7). The piglets showed the lesions of fibrinous pericarditis, sac effusions (blood and serosanguineous), heavy non-collapsible lungs, and fibrinous hepatitis. Microscopically, sub-acute fibrinous pericarditis, pleuritis, broncho-interstitial pneumonia, hepatitis, fibrinous polyserositis, lymphocyte depletion and enteritis were characteristic lesions. Immunohistochemical staining showed abundant immunoreactivity of M. hyopneumoniae antigen in the infiltrating mononuclear cells of heart, bronchiolar epithelium and cellular exudates of lungs, and lymphocytes of lymphoid organs. The etiological confirmation of M. hyopneumoniae in all the tissues by the PCR test showed amplification of 853bp targeting the p36 gene. The phylogenetic tree showed 99.30% homology with that of M. hyopneumoniae sequences in the database. The other likely aetiologies like PM, APP, SS, HPS, B. bronchiseptica, Chlamydia, PRRSV, SIV, and ECMV were tested negative by PCR, except for PCV2 in lung samples. This paper highlights the importance of M. hyopneumoniae in the differential diagnosis of fibrinous pericarditis in piglets.
The Clinical Efficacy of Sustentaculum Tali Screws in Calcaneal Fractures
Authors: Li Zihua , Xiao Fajiao , Huang Hui , Xia Jiang , Zhou Haichao , Li Bing , Yang Yunfeng
Published: November 2023

Background
To investigate whether accurate placement of sustentaculum tali screws have the impacts on the clinical efficacy of calcaneal fractures.
Methods
A retrospective analysis of 72 cases (73 feet) of calcaneal fractures from September 2015 to September 2019 treated with open reduction and internal fixation with sustentaculum tali screws was conducted. Patients were divided into the sustentaculum tali fixation group (ST group) and the sustentaculum fragment fixation group (STF group) according to the location of the sustentaculum tali screw placement. The functional outcomes at preoperative, 7 days and 1 year postoperative were collected and analyzed.
Results
In the ST group (40 feet), the Gissane's angle altered from (109.89 ± 12.13) ° to (121.23 ± 9.34) ° and (119.08 ± 8.31) ° at 7 days and 1 year postoperative, respectively. For Böhler's angles altered from (11.44 ± 5.94) °, to (31.39 ± 7.54) °, and (30.61 ± 7.94) ° at 7 days and 1 year postoperative, respectively. In the STF group (33 feet), Gissane's angle altered from (110.47 ± 14.45) °, to (122.08 ± 8.84) °, and (120.67 ± 9.07) ° and Böhler's angle altered from (11.32 ± 6.77) °, to (28.82 ± 8.52) °, and (28.25 ± 9.13) ° (P < 0.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference in functional outcomes at 1 week after surgery and 1 year after surgery (P > .05). The AOFAS scores at the final follow-up of the two groups: ST group (88.95 ± 6.16) and STF group (89.78 ± 8.76); VAS scores, ST group (0.83 ± 0.98) and STF group (1.03 ± 1.59), all differences were not statistically significant (P > .05).
Conclusion
The position of sustentaculum tali screws has no significant difference on the short-term clinical outcome in patients with calcaneal fractures, while reliable fixation of screws to sustentaculum tali fragment can achieve similar clinical outcome.
Level of Evidence: V
Anomalous Right Coronary Artery Managed with Bypass and Proximal Ligation
Authors: Ramcharran Harry , Nazem Ahmad
Published: November 2023

Background:
An anomalous origin and inter-arterial course of the right coronary artery is a rare anomaly that can lead to sudden ischemic cardiac death if left untreated. We present a case of a patient with an anomalous right coronary artery originating from the left coronary cusp and an inter-arterial course that was managed with coronary artery bypass surgery using a right internal mammary artery conduit. The proximal right coronary artery was ligated to prevent competitive flow.
Case Presentation:
A 69 year-old-male with a ten-year history of intermittent chest pain and dyspnea with a negative workup underwent a cardiac catheterization, which showed an anomalous right coronary artery (RCA) originating from the left coronary cusp, with an inter-arterial course between the ascending aorta and pulmonary artery, and greater than 70% narrowing of the proximal RCA. The patient underwent coronary artery bypass grafting via a median sternotomy and was cannulated for hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. The right internal mammary artery (RIMA) was skeletonized and used as a conduit, with the distal RCA being the target. A silastic band was placed around the proximal RCA, and a 2.0mm coronary flow probe (Transonic, Ithaca, NY, USA) was used to measure flow via the conduit with the proximal RCA occluded and un-occluded. With the proximal RCA occluded, peak flow via the conduit was greater due to the elimination of any competitive flow. The proximal RCA was ligated with a 2 − 0 silk suture and three metal clips. Intra-operatively, there were no signs of ischemia or arrhythmia. The patient was successfully taken off cardiopulmonary bypass. Post-operatively, he did well and was discharged on postoperative day 4.
Conclusions:
Symptomatic anomalous origin of the right coronary artery with an inter-arterial course can be treated successfully with coronary artery bypass surgery with the internal mammary artery as a conduit. Ligation of the proximal right coronary artery can minimize competitive flow through the bypass graft.
Note on Occurrence of Areca White Grub (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae, Leucopholini) from Northern Western Ghats and its Implications
Authors: Jagdale Pranil , Magdum Sujata , Kalawate Aparna , Lole Kavita , Ramdasi Ashwini
Published: November 2023

Species of the genus Leucopholis are agricultural pests with an enigmatic taxonomic position and inadequate information on its diversity and ecology, particularly in the oriental region. We report the first ever distribution record of an Areca white grub, Leucopholis burmeisteri Brenske, 1894 from the Northern Western Ghats, Maharashtra, India. It is an economically important pest reported to be damaging the cash crops viz., sugarcane, coconut, Areca nut and several other vegetables. In this study the species was re-described with illustration of female specimens. The identity of the species was reconfirmed using DNA barcoding by sequencing the 5’ region of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtCOI-5P). The evolutionary history inferred by constructing a phylogenetic tree using Maximum Likelihood method based on the General Time Reversible model showed that L. burmeisteri formed clustered with L. burmeisteri reported from Karnataka thus reconfirming, by molecular means, the evolutionary affinity of the species with other species complex. The threats for the host plants are also discussed. Collection locality map and the images to facilitate the identification are also provided.
Identification of potent allosteric inhibitors of PRMT3: pharmacophore based 3D-QSAR modeling and molecular simulations approach
Authors: Mubarak Shoufia Jabeen , Vedagiri Hemamalini
Published: November 2023

Protein arginine methyltransferases are a family of proteins that play an important role in the regulation of gene expression, mainly involved in epigenetic modifications like DNA methylation and histone acetylation. Protein arginine methyltransferase 3 (PRMT) is a member of the PRMT family of enzymes involved in various cellular processes, including transcriptional regulation, RNA processing, and signal transduction. PRMT3 levels are considerably enhanced in certain types of cancers particularly breast, colorectal, lung and ovarian cancers. Studies have indicated that PRMT3 promotes tumor growth by activating oncogenes and suppressing tumor suppressor genes. PRMT3 is a histone-modifying enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of methyl groups from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to specific arginine residues in target proteins, thereby modulating their function. However, the activity of PRMT3 is not only regulated by its catalytic domain but also by allosteric mechanisms that control its enzymatic activity. Furthermore, targeting PRMT3 could potentially serve as a therapeutic strategy for treating various types of cancer. This study focuses on targeting the allosteric regulation of PRMT3 by exploring diverse compound libraries to identify potential inhibitors that would modify its cellular function. This computational approach involves the generation of pharmacophore hypothesis with 3D-QSAR validation, followed by virtual screening, docking and dynamic simulations to identify potent bioactive compounds as PRMT3 inhibitors. Virtual screening of natural products and PRMT specific libraries revealed the top lead molecules as cladribine, capecitabine, gefitinib, D175-0195, F602-1150 and F1361-0042. However, further validation studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Effects of Different Forced-air Warming systems on the Core Temperature of Patients: A Manikin and Multi-center Clinical Study
Authors: Yang Heng , Hu Jicheng , Luo Hong , Wang Hao , Wang Xin , Zhang Chaofeng , Wang Yanjun , Yang Chai , Hu Xiaoxuan , Chai Xiaoqing
Published: November 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the thermal protective function and running properties of different forced-air warming (FAW) systems in manikin and clinical study.
Methods:
Manikin study: Details of methods are provided in the following article.
Clinical study: Patients were randomly divided into four groups (Group A; Group B; Group C and Group D), with 30 cases in each group. At the beginning of anesthesia induction, the FAW blanket was turned on and adjusted to 43°C until the end of the operation. The primary outcome was the mean core body temperature in each group during the intraoperative period. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of perioperative surgical-related variables.
Results:
Manikin study: The detailed results are shown in the following article.
Clinical study: Though the mean perioperative core body temperature was all higher than 36°C in different groups (group A: 36.31±0.04; group B: 36.26±0.06; group C: 36.17±0.03; group D: 36.25±0.05), the core body temperature of patients in group A was higher than the other three groups (P<0.001). The incidence of perioperative hypothermia was lowest in group A, but the difference between the four groups was not statistically significant (group A:4 (13%); group B:7 (23%); group C:11 (37%); group D:7 (23%), P=0.212).
Conclusion: For patients undergoing laparoscopic radical resection of colorectal cancer under general anesthesia, four types of FAW systems can effectively prevent the occurrence of perioperative hypothermia, but group A warming system reduced heat loss to a greater extent than other blankets and achieved a better warming effect.
Trial registration: ChiCTR2200065394. (Data of Registration: November 3rd, 2022)
Real Life Event-Based Outcomes of Patients With Gaucher Disease Receiving ERT
Authors: Kılıç Ayşe , Inci Aslı , Okur Ilyas , Tümer Leyla , Ezgü Fatih Süheyl
Published: November 2023

Purpose
Gaucher Disease (GD) is a lysosomal storage disease. Mutations in GBA1 gene cause glucocerebrosidase enzyme deficiency that leads accumulation of its substrates. Clinical presentations of GD are cytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, bone involvement and neurological impairment. Besides; abdominal pain, painful bone crises, bleeding, growth retardation, delayed puberty, pulmonary involvement, fatigue are other manifestations. This study has revealed event-based outcomes in GD patients undergoing ERT to evaluate real-life data to assess the impact of ERT on GD patients' lives.
Methods
The events consist of hematopoietic system related events, musculoskeletal system related events, gastrointestinal system related events, growth and puberty related events, respiratory system related events, neurological system related, routine daily activities related events and tumoral formation. Events were collected starting from 1 year before and up to 3 years form initiation of ERT and all events were collected every 6 months periods.
Results
Total of 31 events were reported between − 12 to -6 months and 17 events from − 6 months to baseline in all patients. After the initiation of ERT, the number of events decreased to 10 in 6–12 months. At the end of the follow-up period, between 30–36 months, only 1 event was recorded, the minimum event number overall. For all groups, there was a trend to decrease or stabilization of the events.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this is the first study that evaluate event-based outcomes in GD patients receiving ERT and show the real-life data by evaluating not only laboratory parameters but also clinical consequences of the treatment, providing practical clinical follow up.
A Controlled Study on the Application of Modified Internet-based Peyton Teaching Method in Clinical Skills Training
Authors: CHEN CHUANHUANG , Hu Zhi-Li , Chen Tan-Peng , Wu Wen-Shen , Chen Zhi-Qing , Chen Zhi-Hui , Xie Pei-Jun , Kuang Yi-Hua , Wang Zi-Mei
Published: November 2023

Objective
To compare the effects of the modified Internet-based Peyton teaching method and the traditional teaching method on clinical skills training.
Methods
Fourth-year medical students at Shenzhen University were randomly divided into two groups, the intervention group and the control group. The intervention group were trained using the modified internet-based Peyton method while the control group were trained in a traditional way. Their learning outcomes were assessed through student questionnaires and their final OSCE scores.
Results
Four items on the questionnaires showed staistical significance (P < 0.05) between the two groups, namely "I think the course helped me learn skills", "The course achieved my expected results", "I accept the format of the course", and "I think the class time is sufficient". The final OSCE results also showed statistical difference (P < 0.05) between the groups.
Conclusion
The application of the modified internet-based Peyton teaching method in clinical skills training can promote students' learning interest, stimulate their initiative for active learning, reduce their brain load to understand the in-class information, and increase the cooperation and mutual evaluation among students. It enriches the traditional teaching content and teaching modes, improving the students’ learning efficiency and skills retention.Therefore, the method is a beneficial tool for basic clinical skills training in the new era.
Development of Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors for a THz On-Chip Spectrometer
Authors: Brooks Elyssa , Barry Peter , Nie Rong , Shirokoff Erik , Filippini Jeffrey , Connors Jake , Gradziel Marcin , Mercado Dale , Spencer Locke , Tramm Serena , Trappe Neal , Zemcov Michael
Published: November 2023

Far-infrared (FIR) wavelength light provides a wealth of information about astrophysical processes. Large field-of-view FIR spectrometers face a variety of challenges that can be bypassed by utilizing on-chip filter bank technology. To this end, we have been developing microwave kinetic inductance detectors (MKIDs) to couple to on-chip spectrometric technologies. We utilize a unique two-silicon wafer design to create a waveguide for an on-chip spectrometer between 1.4 and 2 THz. The spectrometer's principle of operation is electromagnetic radiation traveling down a center waveguide before being picked off by a resonance cavity and absorbed by a detector. The MKIDs are designed to couple directly to the waveguide using an annular antenna shape for the inductor. Alignment of the two-wafer design is achieved with two dowel pins and a hole and slot pattern in our custom designed box. We present the design and early test data from a 18-channel prototype device. The prototype yielded the full 18 resonances with quality factors Qc of about 5 ∗ 104 and Qi of about 1 ∗ 104. We plan to use the technology we developed to create an n × n pixel device targeting R = 100.
The study of the relationships between diastasis recti abdominis and transversus abdominal: a scoping review
Authors: Luo Xiang , Leng Xiaohui , Li Zhenhong , Li Yuefeng , Ma Rui , Yang Kun
Published: November 2023

Background The main treatment for diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is physical therapy. Most existing research focuses on the types of intervention to take, the effects of exercise, and the evaluation methods of these effects. So far, there are no recognized exercise programs. Perhaps researchers have overlooked the changes in trunk mechanics caused by pregnancy, as well as the relationship between biomechanics and exercises for DRA. This study aims to explore the mechanisms of rehabilitation exercise for DRA from a biomechanical perspective.
Methods PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, and Web of Science databases were consulted using the terms 'Diastasis rectus abdominis, Abdominis Muscle,' 'Biomechanics,' 'Linea alba,' 'Physical therapy,' 'transversus abdominis,' and 'trunk stabilization.' All English and Chinese-written published articles were included until Oct, 2023.
Results The transverse abdominis muscle (TrA) is located deep within the abdominal wall and is attached to the fascia (aponeurosis) at both the front and back ends. During the Abdominal Drawing-In Maneuver, the muscles contract centrally. They shorten and thicken, resulting in reduced abdominal volume, increased abdominal pressure, and improved trunk stability. It also causes the displacement of the aponeurosis on both sides, resulting in centripetal force. The transverse fiber constitutes the main structure of the dorsal rectus sheath and the posterior layer of the linea alba. According to measurements obtained through shear wave elastic ultrasonic imaging and other equipment, the transverse stress is high and the compliance is low. Its biomechanical characteristics facilitate the transverse transfer of force generated by the TrA to the linea alba, and the force on both sides ends in the linae alba, which increases the tension. In patients with DRA, the linea alba undergoes significant deformation, and its stiffness decreases.
Conclusions The deformation of the linea alba is the main feature of DRA. TrA is the only muscle in the abdominal region that can increase the tension of the linea alba and improve the stability of the trunk by increasing internal abdominal pressure. Therefore, exercising TrA is the best treatment for the rehabilitation of DRA from mechanisms.
Clinical features and ALDH5A1 gene findings in 13 Chinese cases with succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Dong Hui , Ma Xue , Chen Zhehui , Zhang Huiting , Song Jinqing , Jin Ying , Li Mengqiu , Lu Mei , He Ruxuan , Zhang Yao , Yang Yanling
Published: November 2023

Background and aims: To investigate the clinical features, ALDH5A1gene variations, treatment, and prognosis of patients with succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH) deficiency.
Materials and methods: This retrospective study evaluated the findings in 13 Chinese patients with SSADH deficiency admitted to the Pediatric Department of Peking University First Hospital from September 2013 to September 2023.
Results: 13 patients (seven male and six female patients; two sibling sisters) were diagnosed as SSADH deficiency aged from 4 months to 15 years. Their urine 4-hydroxybutyrate acid levels were elevated and were accompanied by mildly increased serum lactate levels. Brain MRI showed symmetric abnormal signals in both sides of the globus pallidus and other areas. All 13 patients had psychomotor retardation, with seven showing epileptic seizures. Among the 18 variants of the ALDH5A1 gene identified in these 13 patients, six were previously reported, while 12 were novel variants. Among 12 novel variants, three (c.85_116del, c.206_222dup, c.762C>G) were pathogenic variants; four (c.427delA, c.515G>A, c.755G>T, c.1274T>C) were likely pathogenic; and the remaining five (c.454G>C, c.479C>T, c.637C>T, c.1480G>A, c.1501G>C) were variants of uncertain significance (VUS). The patients received drugs such as L-carnitine, vigabatrin and taurine, along with symptomatic treatment. Their urine 4-hydroxybutyric acid levels showed variable degrees of reduction.
Conclusions: A cohort of 13 cases with early-onset SSADH deficiency were analyzed. Onset of symptoms occurred from 1 month to 1 year of age. 12 novel variants were identified from ALDH5A1 Gene.
Force Free Magnetic Field and Modifications in Kerr Black Hole
Authors: Sheikhahmadi Haidar
Published: November 2023

A recent research, presented a solution for a Schwarzschild black hole with a force-free magnetic field showing how the canonical form of background metric changes, [1]. Therefore, it is logical that this research seeks the modified solutions for the Kerr black hole as well. The goal of this paper is, thereby, to pinpoint an exact solution for the Kerr black holes perturbed by force-free magnetic fields. However, to do this we use a well known tetrad formalism and obtain an explicit expression for the electromagnetic strength tensor in the background metric, that is Kerr, based on the tangent space calculations. Analyzing the stress-energy tensor reveals the perturbed factors in the metric that allow us to understand better the physics of the disks around massive and supermassive black holes. These results show that it is not enough to depend solely on perturbation theory set against the background metric, without considering the backreaction of the force-free magnetufluid on it. This research indicates the necessity of studying the impact of force-free magnetic fields on the structure and evolution of mysterious cosmic objects.
Omics reveal the difference between PTDM and T2D among the liver, pancreas and adipose tissue
Authors: Liu Yuan , Wen Peizhen , Yang Yang , He Qining , Shi Wenjie , Xia Yan , Wang Haoyu , Tang Yangyang , Wang Rui , Zhang Tao , Fan Junwei , Peng Zhihai
Published: November 2023

Backgroud: This research delved into the underlying mechanisms responsible for post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) and comparisons with type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Methods: Comprehensive analyses, encompassing both transcriptomics and metabolomics, were conducted on liver and pancreatic tissues from the PTDM and T2D groups. Furthermore, distinctions in competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks were explored. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA)was implemented to identify clusters of genes exhibiting strong correlations among the liver, pancreas, and adipose tissue.
Results: Compared to their T2D counterparts, PTDM mice exhibited notable differences in higher body weight (P <0.05), lower blood glucose levels (P <0.05), and enhanced insulin tolerance (P <0.05). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses indicated significant alterations in the MAPK pathway and leukocyte migration within the liver, as well as variations in the differentiation of Th17, Th1, and Th2 cells, along with T cell activation, within the pancreas. In addition, the MAPK signaling pathway and leukocyte migration pathways were significantly modified in adipose tissue. The ceRNA network analysis highlighted substantial changes, revealing 164 long intergenic non-coding RNA (lincRNA) and 154 circular RNA (circRNA) networks significantly changed in the liver, and 445 lincRNA and 135 circRNA networks in the pancreas that were significantly altered in the PTDM group compared to T2D group. Notably, the metabolites Resveratrol, Aldehydo-D-xylose, 3-Hydroxybutyric acid, 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide, Leucinic acid and (R)-lipoic acid displayed significant changes in the liver in PTDM mice, with their regulation attributed to 2510002D24RIK.
Conclusion:In summary, PTDM mice exhibited distinctive multi-omics and pathological characteristics compared to their T2D counterparts.
A Probabilistic Pluvial Flood Warning Model Based on Nest SOM Using Radar Reflectivity Data
Authors: Pan Tsung-Yi , Chen Lo-Yi , Hsieh Yi-Huan , Chen Buo-Fu , Lai Jihn-Sung
Published: November 2023

The occurrence and intensity of extreme weather events have increased under climate change, making flooding disasters more likely during the flood season from May to November in Taiwan. The current early warning system for flooding disasters developed by the Water Resources Agency in Taiwan relies on the density of rain gauges, which limits its effectiveness. To improve this system, our research collected historical radar reflectivity and rainfall data in the flood-prone area at the Zhonghua village of Taipei City. An unsupervised neural network called the self-organizing map (SOM) is applied to establish the relationship between radar reflectivity and rainfall observations, enabling the analysis of clustering vectors corresponding to pluvial flood disaster events. A Nest SOM-based pluvial flood warning model was proposed in identifying flooding hot zones and delivering probabilistic flood warning information. Based on radar reflectivity characteristics along with corresponding rainfall intensity and frequency, the proposed model was evaluated during extreme events to demonstrate its applicability and provide probabilistic warning information prior to flood disasters. Consequently, the model provides considerable practical value in enhancing flood disaster management.
Measurment of Natural Radioactivity and Evaluation of Radiation Hazards in Rock Samples of Seashore, Kanyakumari District
Authors: M suji , Shanthi G
Published: November 2023

The goal of the current research was to examine the radiation environment, along the most visited seashores in Tamil Nadu, India, Kanyakumari District. Gamma ray spectrometry was used to determine the average activity concentrations of radioactive elements such as 238U, 232Th, and 40K in seashore rock samples. Objective of this study is to quantify the amounts of natural radioactivity present in the chosen samples. Additionally, an evaluation of radiological risks posed by naturally occurring radionuclides was conducted, and the average activity-concentrations of 238U, 232Th, and 40K are 37.93, 187.51, and 461.95 (Bq/Kg) respectively. In this study, the yearly effective radiation dosage, air absorbed gamma radiation dose rate, and hazard index (Hin, Hex), alpha index, gamma index, representative level index value, activity utilization index, annual gonald dose equivalent were estimated. Results of this were little high recommended safe and criterion limit given by UNSCEAR. Statistical method was used to study the relation between radionuclides and also calculated radiation parameters. Result of this study revealed a selected seashore rock is high in emitting gamma radionuclides, but it doesn’t lead to significant health hazards to the exposed populace. The current findings provided as a crucial benchmark for any upcoming radiological research in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu.
Circulating metabolome landscape in Lynch Syndrome
Authors: Jokela Tiina , Karppinen Jari , Kärkkäinen Minta , Mecklin Jukka-Pekka , Walker Simon , Seppälä Toni T. , Laakkonen Eija K.
Published: November 2023

Circulating metabolites systemically reflect cellular processes and can modulate the tissue microenvironment in complex ways, potentially impacting cancer initiation processes. Genetic background increases cancer risk in individuals with Lynch syndrome; however, not all carriers develop cancer. Various lifestyle factors can influence Lynch syndrome cancer risk, and lifestyle choices actively shape systemic metabolism, with circulating metabolites potentially serving as the mechanical link between lifestyle and cancer risk. This study aims to characterize the circulating metabolome of Lynch syndrome carriers, shedding light on the energy metabolism status in this cancer predisposition syndrome. This study consists of a three-group cross-sectional analysis to compare the circulating metabolome of cancer-free Lynch syndrome carriers, sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, and healthy non-carrier controls. We detected elevated levels of circulating cholesterol, lipids, and lipoproteins in LS carriers. Furthermore, we unveiled that Lynch syndrome carriers and CRC patients displayed similar alterations compared to healthy non-carriers in circulating amino acid and ketone body profiles. Both groups exhibited increased systemic inflammation based on higher levels of global N-acetyl glycosylation (GlycA). Overall, a remarkable similarity between the circulating metabolome of healthy Lynch syndrome carriers and CRC patients suggests shared metabolic perturbations that may contribute to Lynch syndrome cancer susceptibility. This study provides valuable insights into systemic metabolic landscape of Lynch syndrome individuals. The findings hint at shared metabolic patterns between cancer-free Lynch syndrome carriers and CRC patients.
Immune Cell Infiltration is Discriminative for ABMR and TCMR
Authors: Zheng Bingxuan , Dou Meng , Deng Ge , Wei Tian , Niu Zejiaxin , Ding Chenguang , Xue Wujun , Tian Puxun
Published: November 2023

Antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) and T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) are the important causes of kidney transplant failure. Here, we aimed to evaluate the different levels and composition of infiltrating immune cells in kidney allografts of patients with ABMR or TCMR. Gene expression profiles GSE36059 and GSE48581 were obtained from the GEO database. Then, an established algorithm method called CIBERSORT was used to estimate the abundance of 22 immune cells based on microarray profiles in the GSE36059 dataset. The GSE48581 dataset was used as a validation cohort to confirm the different infiltrating immune cells between the ABMR and the TCMR groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the value of the infiltrating immune cells in discriminating ABMR from TCMR. Immune infiltration analysis by CIBERSORT method showed that TCMR samples had a higher level of T cell subsets compared with the ABMR samples. In the TCMR group, a significant increase in CD4 + activated memory T cells, follicular helper T cells, gamma delta (GD) T cells was observed. In the ABMR group, we found that plasma cells, resting NK cells, activated NK cells, and resting dendritic cells were increased. Similar results were also obtained in the validation cohort. The combined analysis of these infiltrating immune cells in discriminating ABMR from TCMR had an AUC of 0.839 (95% CI: 0.753–0.924) in the GSE36059 dataset and an AUC of 0.899 (95% CI: 0.823–0.975) in the validation cohort. Our data suggest that there was an obvious difference in immune infiltration between ABMR and TCMR. Plasma cells, resting NK cells, activated NK cells, resting dendritic cells, CD4 + activated memory T cells, follicular helper T cells combined with gamma delta T cells could better discriminate ABMR from TCMR.
Effects of exercise for the prevention of sarcopenia after bariatric surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mendes Cláudia
Published: November 2023

Bariatric surgery is a treatment for severe obesity with associated pathologies, with proven evidence of its benefits. In addition to the reduction in body fat mass, weight loss associated with bariatric surgery is greatly influenced by the significant reduction in skeletal muscle mass and bone mineral mass, which could negatively affect functional capacity and consequently increase the risk of sarcopenia. The need for prophylactic programs that prevent sarcopenia in bariatric surgery patients seems to be one of the crucial points for the long-term surgical success of bariatric and metabolic surgery. This study aimed to analyze the published literature on the effects of physical exercise on sarcopenia induced by bariatric surgery. We followed the PRISMA checklist for systematic reviews, conducted in Pubmed/Medline, Ebsco, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. Randomized controlled studies, controlled clinical studies, and other experimental studies were considered for inclusion in the study. A total of 356 possibly relevant studies were identified, and 8 studies were included in the review, 6 of which were randomized experimental studies, 1 pilot study, and 1 quasi-experimental study, with quality considered reasonable and good. The practice of structured physical exercise allows significant improvements in body composition, with positive effects on functional capacity, muscle strength, metabolic risk factors, and quality of life in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery, especially with the combined type of exercise. The studies did not objectively evaluate sarcopenia, but in a complementary way, with analysis of associated parameters and criteria. An individualized and supervised combined exercise program contributes to the reduction of sarcopenia after bariatric surgery.
Does Corporate Governance Moderates the Impact of Earnings Management on Capital Structure: Evidence from Palestine and Amman Bourses
Authors: Alhassan Shams Al-duha Abu , Nour Abdulnaser , Atout Sameh , Daraghma Zahran , Jebreen Kamel
Published: November 2023

Purpose –
The purpose of this research is to investigate the moderating role of corporate governance on the relationship between earnings management and debt level in capital structure.
Design/methodology/approach –
This paper used a hypothesis-testing research approach to gather data from the annual reports of 13 industrial companies listed on Palestine Exchange and 25 Jordanian corporations listed on Amman Stock Exchange from 2013 to 2020. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed, along with correlation analysis to evaluate linear relationships between variables. The fixed and random effect regressions were utilized to develop the research model.
Findings –
In the case of Palestinian manufacturing firms, the results revealed that Earnings Management (EM) had a significant negative impact on debt level. According to the moderating role of Corporate Governance (CG), larger boards and the existence of female members on the board of directors causes an increase in the high-leverage impact of EM, whereas CEO duality mitigates the high-leverage impact. However, in the case of Jordanian manufacturing firms, EM showed an insignificant impact on debt level. Regarding the moderating role of CG, it was proved that the presence of female members on the board of directors increased the firm’s reliance on debt financing as a result of EM practices, while institutional investors mitigate the effect of EM on debt financing, leading to a decrease in reliance on debt.
Research limitations/implications –
A few CG variables that may have a direct impact on financing decisions, such as management expertise, CEO compensation, CEO tenure and ownership concentration, are not included in this study. The absence of a unanimous CG index to measure the compliance of CG practices, as well as the existence of the reciprocal effect of capital structure on CG, is also a limiting factor. Additionally, due to the small sample size and time period, the findings cannot be generalized to other samples outside of the manufacturing sector or other time frames.
Originality/value –
The findings of this research are suitable for the regulators while formulating policies on the Corporate Governance and the Impact of Earnings Management on Capital Structure. These findings have guided the policymakers that they should enhance their focus on Palestine and Jordan companies to test Corporate Governance Moderates the Impact of Earnings Management on Capital Structure. This study is also helpful for the new researcher while investigating this area in the future.
Exploring Optical Soliton Solutions and Bifurcation Analysis in the Space- Time Fractional Fokas-Lenells (STFFL) Equation with Sardar Sub-Equation (SSE) Approach
Authors: Ali Ahmed Refaie , Alam Md. Nur , Parven Mst. Wahida
Published: November 2023

The space-time fractional Fokas-Lenells (STFFL) equation is a mathematical model used in telecommunications and transmission technology to describe complex phenomena. It explains nonlinear pulse propagation in optical fibers. In this study, we use the Sardar sub-equation (SSE) approach with the STFFL equation to find unexplored optical soliton solutions (OSSs) and analyze their bifurcations. These OSSs include bright-dark, periodic, multiple bright-dark solitons, and various types. We use 2D, contour, and 3D diagrams to illustrate the impact of fractional and time parameters on these solutions. Additionally, we create 2D, 3D, contour, and bifurcation analysis diagrams to examine the nonlinear effects of the STFFL equation. We establish a Hamiltonian function (HF) for phase plane dynamics analysis and conduct simulations using Python and MAPLE software. The discovered OSS solutions have practical implications for real-world physical events. This study demonstrates the utility and reliability of the SSE scheme for solving time-space nonlinear fractional differential equations (TSNLFDEs).
Compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines in Ophthalmology Social Media Posts
Authors: Sharma Meghan , Shah Serena , Gil Alexandra , Huertas Laura , Bitrian Elena , Chang Ta Chen Peter
Published: November 2023

This is a cross-sectional analysis of publicly available Internet data to examine compliance to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) on patient education social media posts in ophthalmology. WCAG ensures web content accessibility for those with disabilities (including visual impairment). Social media posts were sampled from 10 ophthalmology patient education social media pages and 10 non-ophthalmology (cardiopulmonary) pages as the comparison group. Three independent reviewers graded the selected posts based on the WebAIM© WCAG 2 checklist adapted for social media posts. Validated accessibility standard labels: “0” for not meeting any standards, “1” for meeting bare minimum accessibility requirements, “2” for meeting legal accessibility requirements, or “3” for exceeding accessibility requirements. There were no significant differences between ophthalmology and non-ophthalmology posts in receiving high vs. low WCAG grades. 49% of ratings for ophthalmology social media posts showed no compliance with any WCAG. The most common reasons that ophthalmology posts failed to meet criteria were due to color and contrast issues (38.9%). Most ophthalmology social media posts had low WCAG scores, indicating poor compliance to WCAG. Because social media is highly visual, reduced compliance to WCAG may create barriers for low vision individuals to successfully access patient education social media content.
Discovery of a novel SHP2 allosteric inhibitor using virtual screening, FMO calculation and molecular dynamic simulation
Authors: Yuan Zhen , Zhang Manzhan , Chang Longfeng , Chen Xingyu , Ruan Shanshan , Shi Shanshan , Zhang Yiqing , Zhu Lili , Li Honglin , Li Shiliang
Published: November 2023

Investigating the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 is a continuing concern in the context of various human diseases, including Noonan syndrome, LEOPARD syndrome, and cancers. SHP2 is an essential bridge to connect numerous oncogenic cell-signaling cascades including RAS-ERK, PI3K-AKT, JAK-STAT and PD-1/PD-L1 pathways. This study aims to discover novel and potent SHP2 inhibitors using a hierarchical structure-based virtual screening strategy that combines molecular docking and the fragment molecular orbital method (FMO) for calculating binding affinity (referred to as the Dock-FMO protocol). We employed Dock-FMO virtual screening of ChemDiv database of ∼2,990,000 compounds to identify a novel SHP2 allosteric inhibitor bearing hydroxyimino acetamide scaffold. Experimental validation demonstrated that the new compound (E)-2-(hydroxyimino)-2-phenyl-N-(piperidin-4-ylmethyl)acetamide (7188-0011)effectively inhibited SHP2 in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation analysis revealed the binding stability of compound 7188-0011and the SHP2 protein, along with the key interacting residues in the allosteric binding site. Overall, our work has identified a novel and promising allosteric inhibitor that targets SHP2, providing a new starting point for further optimization to develop more potent inhibitors.
Study on the rotational performance of steel hub joints of wood reticulated domes subjected to monotonic and cyclic bending moment
Authors: Li Shi-Guang , Zhu En-Chun , Niu Shuang
Published: November 2023

Steel hub joints with bolted steel side plates (SHJ-BSSP) has been widely adopted in wood reticulated domes, yet few studies have been conducted on its mechanical behaviour. This paper presents a refined finite model for SHJ-BSSP joints, which is verified against existing test results and used for further parametric study on the rotational performance of SHJ-BSSP joints subjected to monotonic and cyclic bending moment. The flexural stiffness and capacity of joints about the strong and weak axes is investigated, accounting for influences from axial compression and the number of shear bolts. The results indicate that the joints, under monotonic loading, demonstrate typical elastic-plastic behavior. Higher compression force and more shear bolts can enhance rotational stiffness and ultimate moment of the joint, while decreasing the ductility due to the earlier yielding of wood within the bearing region of the joint. Under cyclic loading, the hysteretic curves of joints exhibit an obvious pinched hysteretic behavior due to the clearances within the joint. As a result of the second order bending moment stemming from axial compression force, the slipping region of the hysteretic curves tend to deviate from the horizontal coordinate axis. Furthermore, larger compression and more shear bolts can increase the total energy dissipation of the system while decreasing the proportion of energy dissipation from the bolted connections. Conclusions are drawn regarding the feature and failure mechanism of the SHJ-BSSP joints, which are helpful guidelines for practical design.
Large Scale Protein Production and Activity Assay Protocols for Human Glycogen Synthase-Glycogenin Complex
Authors: Marr Laura , Biswas Dipsikha , Sakamoto Kei , Zeqiraj Elton
Published: November 2023

Glycogen synthase (GS) is the rate limiting enzyme for glycogen production and together with glycogenin (GN) and glycogen branching enzyme (GBE), can generate glycogen particles containing up to 50,000 glucose units. Dysregulation of glycogen synthesis, for example overproduction or accumulation of misshapen glycogen, is the source of many glycogen storage diseases affecting glucose homeostasis and muscle and neuronal cell function. As such, GS is an attractive candidate enzyme for therapeutic targeting, which until recently, was hampered by difficulties in producing active human GS enzyme preparations. Here, we describe the large-scale production of GS in complex with GN, and assay conditions to measure enzyme activity in the absence and presence of the allosteric activator glucose-6-phosphate (G6P). These protocols, together with assays for quality control assessment of enzyme preparations, provide a useful resource for studying the biochemical, biophysical and structural properties of the GS-GN complex, and facilitate drug discovery pipelines to develop therapeutics for glycogen storage diseases.
The Efficacy of 12-week Progressive Home-Based Strength and Tai-Chi Exercise Snacking in Older Adults: A Mixed-Method Exploratory Randomised Control Trial
Authors: Liang Ian Ju , Perkin Oliver , Williams Sean , McGuigan Polly , Thompson Dylan , Western Max J
Published: November 2023

Background: Maintaining physical function is important for independence and frailty prevention in later life, but very few older adults meet exercise recommendations. Previous studies found that 4-week 'exercise and Tai-chi snacking’ as a viable alternative to traditional exercise is acceptable to healthy older adults.
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a 12-week progressive exercise and Tai-chi snacking programme on physical function and psychological outcomes in pre-frail older adults.
Design: Randomised controlled trial.
Setting: Community-dwelling older adults.
Participants: 90 older adults with impaired strength and balance were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated to an intervention or waitlist control group.
Intervention: A 12-week progressive exercise and Tai-chi snacking programme.
Measurements: Physical function (the short physical performance battery (SPPB), single-leg balance test and sit-to-stand test) and self-reported psychological outcomes were measured remotely at baseline, 4-, 8-, and 12-weeks. A subset of 40 participants also completed in-person functional assessments, and 26 intervention participants underwent semi-structured interviews to feedback on their experiences.
Results: The 12-week progressive home-based exercise and Tai-chi snacking improved strength, balance, and mobility at each timepoint compared to control group. Timed-up-and-go and total SPPB scores were also better in the intervention group compared to the control group in lab subset participants. Based on the qualitative findings, Participants found the programme accessible and beneficial, making it suitable for older adults and increasing self-efficacy in physical activities.
Conclusions: The home-based exercise and Tai-chi snacking programme significantly improved lower extremity strength, balance, and mobility in pre-frail older adults. This low-cost programme is considered beneficial, acceptable and easy implemented physical function intervention.
FTIR, XPol, and LC-MS confirm endogenous collagen in Edmontosaurus fossil bone
Authors: Tuinstra Lucien , Thomas Brian , Robinson Steven , Pawlak Krzysztof , Elezi Gazmend , Faull Kym Francis , Taylor Stephen
Published: November 2023

Reports of proteins in fossilized bones have ignited an on-going debate because previously it was generally assumed that fossilization results in destruction of all organic components. We combine Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectroscopy, cross-polarized light microscopy (XPol), and two variations of Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), to detect and verify endogenous collagen protein in fossilized bone. Data from an Edmontosaurus dinosaur excavated from Upper Cretaceous strata of the South Dakota Hell Creek Formation were compared with that from thermally decayed modern turkey (Meleagris) bone. The four methods show independent evidence for collagen presence in the fossilized bone. ATR-FTIR spectra show a signal for carbonyl (C = O) groups, a repeat moiety in protein amino acid sequences. XPol shows the birefringence of collagen within Meleagris, as well as Edmontosaurus. LC-MS bottom-up proteomics showed m/z agreement between multiple ions from trypsin-digested samples and identifies peptide sequences thus far only identified in a hadrosaur. Tandem LC-MS unambiguously identified hydroxyproline, a unique collagen-indicator amino acid, in acid-digested samples from the same.