bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CT-guided percutaneous microwave ablation for pulmonary metastases from colorectal cancer: Prognosis analyses based on primary tumor location
Authors: Huang Yuting , Wu Ketong , Liu Yang , Li Dan , Lai Haiyang , Peng Tao , Wan Yuan , Zhang Bo
Published: July 2022

Purpose
Microwave ablation (MWA) is becoming an effective therapy for inoperable pulmonary metastases from colorectal cancer (CRC). It is unclear whether the primary tumor location affects survival after MWA.
Methods
Patients who underwent MWA from 2014 to 2021 were enrolled. The survival outcomes and prognostic factors of primary CRC location were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses.
Results
A total of 118 patients with 154 pulmonary metastases from CRC were treated in 140 MWA sessions. Rectal cancer had a higher proportion with seventy (59.32%) than colon cancer with forty-eight (40.68%). No differences were observed among age, comorbidities, number, pulmonary lobe, metatasic type, laterality, DFI, or CEA, except for sex (p = 0.001) and maximum diameter (p = 0.026). Pneumothorax was the most frequent complication and occurred in 14 (26.42%) in colon cancer and 31 (35.63%) in rectal cancer (p = 0.425). The median follow-up was 18.53 months (range 1.10-60.63 months). Kaplan-Meier analyses revealed that the DFS and OS in colon and rectal cancer were 25.97 vs 11.90 months (p = 0.405), and 60.63 vs 53.87 months (p = 0.149), respectively. Multivariate analyses showed that only age was independent prognostic factor in patients with rectal cancer (HR = 3.70, 95% CI: 1.28–10.72, p = 0.023), while none in colon cancer.
Conclusion
Primary CRC location has no impact on survival for patients with pulmonary metastases after MWA, while disparate prognostic factor exist between colon and rectal cancer. Pulmonary comorbidity may be a risk factor of survival and should be treated carefully.
Membrane integrated valorization of waste dairy whey: A novel technique
Authors: Das Pallabi , Dutta Suman , Maity Sudip
Published: July 2022

Experiments were undertaken to develop a sustainable, process intensified membrane integrated crystallization technique for the extraction of lactose from cheese whey. The study explored concentrative mode of membrane crystallization and its possible integration with conventional evaporative crystallization. Effects of the membrane module, mass transfer coefficient, nucleation rate, pressure drop and their interdependence were studied through modelling and system design. This was followed by exhaustive experimental investigations and parameter optimization. The effect of antisolvent addition on membrane crystallization was also explored. Following this, the membrane integrated technique was employed for selective lactose recovery from real cheese whey sourced from sweetmeat manufacturers. Competitive lactose crystal yields of 3.8- 4.96 g per 100 ml of cheese whey (from which fat & protein content was isolated) were obtained. The presence of membrane lowered the total crystallization times as compared to evaporative crystallization. Addition of antisolvent reduced crystallization times in the range of 13.5% - 23.1% for membrane integrated & chemical precipitation techniques. In the alcohol series of antisolvent dosing , a progression from methanol to butanol demonstrated enhanced reduction in crystallization. Crossflow NanoFiltration (NF) showed a higher concentration than crossflow UltraFiltration (UF). The membrane integrated crystallization technique successfully demonstrated waste valorization with competitive lactose yields from cheese whey.
Hyper-responsiveness to Warfarin in A Young Patient with The VKORC1 -1639GA/CYP2C9*1*46 Genotype: A Case Report
Authors: Aldiban Weam , Altawil Yara , Hussein Samir , Aljamali Majd , Youssef Lama A.
Published: July 2022

Background
Warfarin is the most widely used oral anticoagulant; nevertheless, dosing of warfarin is problematic for clinicians worldwide. Inter-individual variability in response to warfarin is attributed to genetic as well as non-genetic factors. Pharmacogenomics studies have identified variants in CYP2C9 and VKORC1 genes as significant predictors of warfarin dose, however, phenotypes of rare variants are not well characterized.
Case presentation:
We report a case of hyper-responsiveness to warfarin in a 22-year-old outpatient with Crohn's disease who presented with a swollen, red, and painful left calf. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in the left lower extremity was confirmed via ultrasonography, and hence, anticoagulation therapy of heparin and concomitant warfarin was initiated. Warfarin dose of 7.5 mg/day was estimated by the physician based on clinical factors. Higher than the expected international normalized ratio (INR) value of 4.5 necessitated the reduction of the warfarin dose to 5 and eventually to 2.5 mg/day to reach a therapeutic INR value of 2.6. Pharmacogenetic profiling of the VKORC1 -1639G > A and CYP2C9 *2, *3, *4, *5, *8, *14, *20, *24, *26, *33, *40, *41, *42, *43, *45, *46, *55, *62, *63, *66, *68, *72, *73 and *78 revealed a VKORC1-1639GA/CYP2C9*1*46 genotype. The lower catalytic activity of the CYP2C9*46 (A149T) variant was previously reported in in vitro settings.
Conclusions
This is the first report on a case of warfarin hyper-responsive phenotype of a patient with the heterozygous CYP2C9*1*46 polymorphism.
Roadmap towards optimal magnetic properties in rare-earth-free L10-MnAl permanent magnets
Authors: Jia Yuxiao , Wu Yuye , Xu Yichen , Zheng Ruixiao , Zhao Shiteng , Wang Jingmin , Skokov Konstantin , Maccari Fernando , Gutfleisch Oliver , Wu Haichen , Wang Hui , zou Jianxin , Jiang Chengbao
Published: July 2022

Twin defects deteriorate the magnetic properties in conventionally-fabricated L10-type and RETM12-type permanent magnets. Herein, we propose a strategy to suppress twins’ formation by decreasing the grain and/or particle sizes below a critical size Dt~300 nm, based on the stress relief mechanism resulting from the balance of volume/surface energy. Twin-free monocrystalline nanoparticles smaller than Dt were synthesized using a comprehensive spectrum of methods for preparing field-aligned polymer bonded magnet with high texture. We propose here a roadmap for selecting the best route for manufacturing high-performance rare-earth free MnAl magnets, depending on their grain/particle size. The dependence of coercivity on grain/particle sizes shows that optimal coercivity can be reached within the range of 50-200 nm, meanwhile, twin-free microstructure is realized which allows ultrahigh remanence by field induced texture. The results reported here can be applied to other twin-containing permanent magnet compounds, offering opportunities to drastically increase their texture and maximal energy products.
Determining Discharge Capacity of Converging Ogee spillways Using Support Vector Machine
Authors: Forudi Ali , Parsaie Abbas , Khalifehei Kamran
Published: July 2022

Converging ogee spillways are employed to help mitigate the natural hazards, e.g. coincidental floods. However, due to complicated nature of converging spillway hydraulics; determining governing relationships is difficult and the outcomes of the accessible conventional models is not accurate. This study concentrates on the ability of Support Vector Machine (SVM) as a Meta-model technique for estimating discharging capacity of converging ogee spillways. In this regard, two different experimental datasets were applied for simulating. To consider the models developed, two scenarios with various input combinations were dealt while scenario1 consist of two parts. Scenario1a considers only free flow condition, scenario1b considers just submerged flow properties, and scenario2 considers general flow condition including free and submerged flow dataset. The obtained results confirmed that SVM is capable of estimating the discharge capacity. It was found that for prediction discharge capacity, the SVMs performed much more accurate in free flow stage (Scenario1a) in comparison with other situations. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the ratio of the entire upstream head to the height of spillway (𝐻 / 𝑝) and downstream apron position (𝑑+ℎ𝑑 / 𝐻 ) under free flow condition, spillway geometry parameter (𝐿2/𝐿′.𝐿𝑐ℎ) on submerged flow condition, and the ratio of the entire upstream head to design head (𝐻 / 𝐻𝑑) and 𝐿2 / 𝐿′.𝐿𝑐ℎ in general flow condition plays a key role in simulating process. Comparisons among SVMs and existing relationships demonstrated that SVM models produced better outcomes.
STEAP Family Members and Gastric Cancer: Expression Profile and Prognostic Values
Authors: A Naer , Lyu Pengfei , Yu Yue , Cheng Shaohua , Liu Yunhong , Cao Xuchen
Published: July 2022

Background: The STEAP family is crucial in the control of metal homeostasis. A increasing amount of data suggests the link between epigenetic alterations in the STEAP family and a range of human malignancies. Nevertheless, the STEAP family's significance in gastric cancer is unclear, and there are few relevant research.Bioinformatics analysis was carried out using R software, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, cBioPortal, TIMER, LinkedOmics, STRING, Metascape, and GSCA Lite online tools.The expression of STEAP1/2/3 was dramatically upregulated in numerous tumor tissues, in particular, gastric cancer, but STEAP4 expression was significantly downregulated. Poor treatment results and aggressiveness of cancer are associated with high STEAP1/2/3 expression.Pathway analysis of the STEAP family and its co-expressed genes using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyodo Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) revealed that numerous gene terms were related with "iron ion homeostasis," "copper ion transport," "response to iron ion," and "iron ion transport." "response to iron ion," "oxidoreductase activity acting on metal ions," and "ion transport" The pathways are associated with "iron ion homeostasis," "copper ion transport," "react to iron ion," and "oxidoreductase activity involving metal ions."Notably, there was a positive correlation between STEAP 1/2/3 expression levels and oxidative stress genes,such as NOX3 and NOX4. PPI network analysis revealed that STEAP family proteins strongly interacted with TFRC. In addition, STEAP 1/2/3 expression was linked with B-cell, CD8+ T-cell infiltrating immune lymphocytes. Interestingly, Overexpression of STEAP 1/3 was also linked to decreased susceptibility of gastric cancer cells to a number of gastric cancer-targeting or chemotherapeutic drugs, including Docetaxel and Vorinostat. STEAP family members may be prognostic indicators and novel treatment targets for patients with gastric cancer.
Benchmarking the Production of Cellulose Nanofibres: Biomass Feedstock, Mechanical Processing, and Nanopaper Performance
Authors: Pennells Jordan , Chaléat Céline , Martin Darren J.
Published: July 2022

Lignocellulosic biomass plays a vital role in the global shift away from the utilisation of non-renewable petrochemical resources. An emerging class of biomass-derived material is nanocellulose, which are typically generated from the deconstruction of cellulose bundles within the cell wall of terrestrial and aquatic plants, either in the form of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) or cellulose nanofibres (CNFs). However, the utilisation of biomass has an inherent challenge associated with product variability, both in terms of the starting feedstock properties, the wide range of processing routes available to generate nanocellulose, and the fabrication of nanocellulose into a diverse range of different product formats. As a result, it is very difficult to accurately characterise and benchmark the wide variety of nanocellulose materials described within the literature. To address this challenge, this study presents a threefold benchmarking assessment of CNF material, including: (1) CNF generated from different biomass sources, including sorghum (leaf, sheath, upper stem, lower stem), banana (leaf, stem), sugarcane (mulch, bagasse), spinifex (leaf), and softwood (stem); (2) CNF generated through different mechanical processing methods, including Silverson mixing, twin screw extrusion, high energy bead milling, and high pressure homogenisation; and (3) CNF-derived nanopaper mechanical performance described within the literature and the specific energy consumption required to generate this material. The biomass benchmarking study highlighted sorghum and banana stem as the most sustainable biomass feedstock, while the mechanical process benchmarking study highlighted twin-screw extrusion as a promising low energy consumption fibrillation method. Lastly, the nanopaper benchmarking study aided in the visualisation of the nanopaper research landscape. Sample benchmarking in this manner helps to provide greater insight into the mechanisms driving nanocellulose material performance and processing sustainability.
Soluble TREM2 induces microglia dysfunction and brain damage while cleavage-reduced TREM2 shows sustained microglia activation with enhanced myelination in the cuprizone model
Authors: Beckmann Nicolau , Neuhaus Anna , Zurbruegg Stefan , Volkmer Pia , Patino Claudia , Joller Stefanie , Feuerbach Dominik , Doelemeyer Arno , Schweizer Tatjana , Rudin Stefan , Neumann Ulf , Berth Ramon , Frieauff Wilfried , Gasparini Fabrizio , Shimshek Derya
Published: July 2022

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is a cell-surface immunoreceptor expressed on microglia, osteoclasts, dendritic cells andmacrophages. Heterozygous loss-of-function mutations in TREM2, including mutations enhancing shedding form the cell-surface, have been associated with myelin/neuronal loss and neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer`s disease and Frontotemporal Dementia. Using the cuprizone model, we investigated the involvement of soluble and cleavage-reduced TREM2 on central myelination processes in cleavage-reduced (TREM2-IPD), soluble-only (TREM2-sol), knock-out (TREM2-KO) and wildtype (WT) mice. In the acute cuprizone model consisting of a five-week intoxication by the copper chelator followed by a four-week recovery all genotypes showed demyelination at the peak of disease reflected by a T2-weighted signal intensity increase in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), most prominently in the external capsule (EC). During the recovery phase a partial signal reduction in WT and TREM2-IPD was observed, while TREM2-sol and TREM2-KO showed an additional increase in MRI signal in the EC. At week 9 histology revealed no recovery of neuroinflammation as well as of the lysosomal marker LAMP-1 in TREM2-IPD animals, which also displayed enhanced cytokine/chemokine levels in the brain. Despite presenting reduced levels of some cytokines/chemokines, persistent microgliosis and astrocytosis at week 9 was likewise observed in TREM2-sol and to a much lesser extent in TREM2-KO, with both homeostatic (TMEM119) as well as activated (LAMP-1) microglia markers increased. This was accompanied, specifically in the EC, by no myelin recovery, with appearance of myelin debris and axonal pathology, while oligodendrocytes recovered. In the chronic model consisting of 12-week cuprizone administration followed by 3-week recovery TREM2-IPD displayed sustained microgliosis and enhanced remyelination in the recovery phase. Taken together, our data suggest that sustained microglia activation led to increased remyelination, whereas microglia with only soluble TREM2 had reduced phagocytic activity despite efficient lysosomal function leading to a dysfunctional phenotype with improper myelin debris removal, lack of remyelination and axonal pathology following cuprizone intoxication.
Characterisation of a cyclic peptide that blocks the RAS binding domain of phosphoinositide 3-kinase p110α
Authors: Ismail Mohamed , Martin Stephen , George Roger , Houghton Francesca , Kelly Geoff , Wang Xinyue , O’Reilly Nicola , Federico Stefania , Cooley Rachel , Hui Ning Sze , Hancock David , Tavassoli Ali , Downward Julian , Molina-Arcas Miriam
Published: July 2022

p110α is a member of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) enzyme family that functions downstream of RAS. RAS proteins contribute to the activation of p110α by interacting directly with its RAS binding domain (RBD), resulting in the promotion of many cellular functions such as cell growth, proliferation and survival. Previous work from our lab has highlighted the importance of the p110α/RAS interaction in tumour initiation and growth. Here we report the discovery and characterisation of a cyclic peptide inhibitor (cyclo-CRVLIR) that interacts with the p110α-RBD and blocks its interaction with KRAS. cyclo-CRVLIR was discovered by screening a “split-intein cyclisation of peptides and proteins” (SICLOPPS) cyclic peptide library. The primary cyclic peptide hit from the screen initially showed a weak affinity for the p110α-RBD (Kd about 360µM). However, two rounds of amino acid substitution led to cyclo-CRVLIR, with an improved affinity for p110α-RBD in the low µM (Kd 3µM). We show that cyclo-CRVLIR binds selectively to the p110α-RBD but not to KRAS or the structurally-related RAF-RBD. Further, using biophysical, biochemical and cellular assays, we show that cyclo-CRVLIR effectively blocks the p110α/KRAS interaction in a dose dependent manner and reduces phospho-AKT levels in several oncogenic KRAS cell lines.
Dispersive Liquid Liquid Microextraction Extraction for the Determination of Aldehydes in Raw Untreated Water and Wastewater Samples around Gaborone, Botswana
Authors: Mogatsaseno Neo Tebogo , Motladiile Saidy , Sichilongo Kwenga
Published: July 2022

Due to their high solubility, cancer-causing and mutagenic properties, aldehydes have attracted research attention to establish their concentrations in water bodies. In this study, a simple and cheap, dispersive liquid liquid microextraction sample preparation procedure was developed for the determination of aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes in raw untreated water and wastewater in conjunction with using high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection. The wavelength of detection was 360 nm using acidified water/methanol as a mobile phase and a Waters C18 XBridge column. The targeted aldehydes were propanal, 3-methylbutanal, pentanal, m-tolualdehyde, o-tolualdehyde, hexanal, nonanal and octanal. The recoveries ranged between 71-126.8 %. The method had good linearity with coefficients of determination (R2) values of greater than 0.9801 with linear dynamic ranges of 0.1 - 0.5 μg/mL for all the aldehydes. The method detection limits ranged between 0.02 - 0.15 μg/mL. The method was applied to real water samples obtained from the Gaborone Dam and the Glen Valley Wastewater treatment plant. Out of the analytes, only propanal was detected and quantified in the Glen Valley Wastewater treatment plant. According to the authors ability, results obtained in this study are the first to be reported in literature from Gaborone, Botswana.
Comparison of the gut microflora of common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) according to differences in sex, age, and physiological condition
Authors: Zhang Kangqing , Gong Xiang , Wang Xinxiang , Sui Jinling
Published: July 2022

Background
Gut microbes play an important role in animal health, and their compositions and changes can reflect the physical condition of animals. However, the gut microbes of most birds, especially raptors, have been poorly investigated. This study used 16S rRNA gene sequencing technology to determine the gut microbiome of rescued common kestrels, compared the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome of common kestrels under different physiological conditions, and analyzed the effects of sex and age on the gut microbes of common kestrels.
Results
The results showed that Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were the dominant bacteria at the phylum level among the gut flora of kestrels. Difference in the physiological condition of kestrels exerted a significant influence on their gut microbe composition. Specifically, compared with the healthy group, the abundance of Lactobacillus in the fracture group increased, and the interaction between functionally similar flora was strengthened; in the pneumonia group, the abundance of potentially pathogenic microorganisms such as Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 and Paeniclostridium was significantly enhanced (P < 0.05). Moreover, the interaction of differences in physiological condition and sex had a significant impact on the abundance of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria in the guts of kestrels. In addition, the abundance of Acinetobacter was significantly affected by age, and with increasing age, its abundance also increased.
Conclusions
This study showed that sex, age and physiological condition affected the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome of common kestrels, and specific microorganisms changed in abundance in individuals with bacterial pneumonia or fractures, which provides a new perspective for the disease diagnosis and treatment of wild common kestrels.
Changing landscapes: habitat monitoring and land transformation in a long-time used Mediterranean coastal wetland
Authors: Tomaselli Valeria , Mantino Francesca , Albanese Giuseppe , Tarantino Cristina , Adamo Maria
Published: July 2022

Zone Umide della Capitanata, located in the northeastern part of the Apulia Region, is one of the most extensive coastal wetlands of the Italian peninsula and one of the largest components of the Mediterranean wetland system. Despite its high ecological importance, this site has been undergoing a variety of pressures intensified in recent decades. This study analyzes and evaluates the changes occurred in this area between 2010 and 2020. Land cover and habitat maps were performed by photointerpretation and on-site surveys, and classified according to the FAO-LCCS and EUNIS taxonomies, respectively. To focus on local dynamics, four subset areas were analyzed separately. A set of landscape metrics was computed to analyze the landscape structure. The anthropogenic pressures affecting the study area were described through the DPSIR (Driving Forces-Pressures-State-Impact-Response) conceptual framework. Numerous changes were identified, deriving from both finest thematic redefinition and anthropogenic pressures. Both class conversions and class modifications were identified and quantified by means of transition matrices. Most of the observed conversions were borne by classes belonging to saltmarshes and to coastal dune systems. In particular, landscape configuration of coastal dune classes was well highlighted by a set of specific landscape metrics. Agriculture practices and changes in water flow pattern turned out to be the main driving forces exerting pressures on these natural systems. Significant differences were found between the four subsets under analysis, thus, indicating that different management strategies lead to different levels of conservation.
Structure and diversity of archaea and methanogenic archaea in sediments of selected freshwater lakes, Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Buriánková Iva , Rulík Martin , Bábíková Štěpánka , Molíková Anna , Novák David , Lochman Jan , Vítězová Monika
Published: July 2022

This research is the first study focusing to explore the diversity of Archaea and methanogens in sediments of 19 selected lakes nearby the Czech polar station on James Ross Island (JRI), Antarctica. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing provided a general view of a diversity of archaeal members and the mcrA gene sequencing has offered deeper insight into the taxonomical diversity of methanogens. Archaea rarely exceeded 1% of the total prokaryotic community. Genera Methanothrix and Methanosarcina were found as the predominating methanogenic members in the lake samples. For the first time in Antarctica, sequences of representatives belonging to Methanothermobacter sp. and Methanomassiliicoccales, and a high proportion of sequences belonging to Methanoperedens-like archaea, methanotrophs that couples anaerobic methane oxidation to denitrification, were recorded. The presence of the genus Methanobacterium has been also captured for the first time to a such large extent. Individual lakes from one area shared much higher similarity in their methanogenic diversity with the lakes from another area rather than with the lakes within the same area, suggesting that a lake location will be not the main factor influencing the diversity of the methanogens. Our research unambiguously provides evidence that the lakes of the JRI and surrounding islands are a potential source of new archaeal species.
Analysis of the influence of polystyrene microplastics and their derivatives on the DNA of human colon epithelial cells HT29 with the comet assay
Authors: Filipkowski Paweł , Aleksandra Ćwiklińska , Koziara Zuzanna , Parchem Karol , Zedler Łukasz , Ryl Jacek
Published: July 2022

We have been using plastic for almost a century and nowadays a lot of them circulates as pollutants in the environment and still defragmenting to micro and nanoscale. The exposition through the food chain and its precise impact on human health is still not clear. In our study, we tested real food packaging after contact with food products and real thermoinsulation and environmental samples of polystyrene in different model liquids, We used a comet assay, mass spectrometry (MS) of fluids which were in contact with packaging, free styrene measurement by Wijs method according to ISO standard and FTIR of wrap, to get an overview of their possible harmful effects. In the presented study, only low genotoxic effect (5-6% DNA damage) was observed.. In addition, no adverse effects were detected in the mass spectrometry. For analysed coloured polystyrene food packaging materials, we noticed a lower level of free styrene monomers in dairy packages that originally contained products with fruits. Exposure of cells to long-term seasoned polystyrene caused less DNA fragmentation than in the case of samples in saline.. Unfortunately, to this day no one knows how much free styrene and derivatives we eat with our daily food products and from food packaging.Based on our results and knowledge, more attention is needed with regard to polystyrene contamination. In particular, a wider analysis of the impact of interactions with the microbiota and the food matrix, which is in direct contact with the polystyrene packaging, should be carried out.The results of our research show that polystyrene and its derivatives from food packaging can potentially have a negative effect on the DNA of human colon epithelial cells. We recommend seasoning of freshly formed polystyrene products and increasing personal protection in relation to workers of the polystyrene foaming factories This applies primarily to dairy products, readily consumed by children, which are rich in both organic acids and salts, and the presence of these ingredients enhances the genotoxic effects. According to our best knowledge, this is the first study using actual polystyrene food packaging available on the market.
Simultaneous enhancement of iron deficiency tolerance and iron accumulation in rice by combining the knockdown of OsHRZ ubiquitin ligases with the introduction of engineered ferric-chelate reductase
Authors: Kobayashi Takanori , Maeda Keisuke , Suzuki Yutaro , Nishizawa Naoko K.
Published: July 2022

Iron is an essential micronutrient for living organisms, but its solubility is extremely low under alkaline conditions. Plants often suffer from iron deficiency chlorosis in calcareous soils, which consist of approximately 30% of the world’s cultivated area, severely limiting plant productivity. Iron deficiency anemia is also a widespread problem in humans, especially in Asian and African people who take up iron mainly from staple foods containing low iron concentrations. Transgenic manipulation of genes involved in plant iron uptake, translocation, and storage has made improvements in enhancing iron deficiency tolerance or iron accumulation in edible parts, but these two properties have been characterized separately. We previously produced transgenic rice lines, with concomitant improvement of iron deficiency tolerance and grain iron accumulation by knocking-down OsHRZ ubiquitin ligases, which negatively regulate iron deficiency response and iron accumulation in rice. In the present report, we aimed to further improve the iron deficiency tolerance and grain iron accumulation of OsHRZ knockdown rice by the simultaneous introduction of the engineered ferric-chelate reductase gene Refre1/372 under the control of the OsIRT1 promoter for further enhancement of iron uptake. We obtained several transgenic rice lines with repressed OsHRZ expression and induced Refre1/372 expression. These lines showed a variable degree of iron deficiency tolerance in calcareous soils, with increased iron accumulation in brown seeds under both iron-deficient and iron-sufficient soil cultures. Selected OsHRZ knockdown plus Refre1/372 lines showed better growth compared with that of singly introduced OsHRZ knockdown or Refre1/372 lines in calcareous soils under both non-submerged and submerged conditions. After submerged calcareous soil cultivation, these OsHRZ knockdown plus Refre1/372 lines accumulated 2.5–4.3 times and 17–23 times more iron concentrations than that of non-transformants in brown rice and straw, respectively, which was comparable or superior to a single OsHRZ knockdown line. Our results indicate that the combined introduction of OsHRZ knockdown and OsIRT1 promoter-Refre1/372 is highly effective in further improving the iron deficiency tolerance without compromising the iron accumulation of the OsHRZ knockdown effects.
Aberrant GATA3 expression in Large B-cell Lymphoma with IRF4 rearrangement: a pitfall in the pathological diagnosis, a case report
Authors: Lu Min-ya , Teng Li-song , Wang Zhe , Teng Xiao-dong , Wang Zhao-ming
Published: July 2022

Background Large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) with interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) rearrangement (LBCL-IRF4) is a rare entity of LBCL with a specific clinical presentation. Notably, it is defined by the presence of an IRF4 rearrangement. Case presentationHere, we describe a case of a 2-years-old child presenting with a LBCL-IRF4 located in the left tonsil, with characteristic histologic appearance and the phenotype of neoplastic cells. The histologic analysis showed the monomorphic atypical lymphoid cells were medium size or large, positive for CD20, CD79a, MUM-1, GATA3, and Ki-67 was about 80%; Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis confirmed the presence of an IRF4 rearrangement. The patient was followed up for 18 months with no evidence of recurrence after being treated with 1 cycles of R-CHOP.ConclusionMorphologically, LBCL-IRF4 has predominantly diffuse or follicular pattern with a large number of necrosis, and a high proliferation rate, all of these suggest that the tumor is highly invasive. But actually LBCL-IRF4 usually performs a favorable outcome after therapy. Furthermore, LBCL-IRF4 with GATA3 positive have never been reported.
The core metabolome and exudation dynamics of three phylogenetically distinct plant species
Authors: Brecht Sarah , Zhalnina Kateryna , Kosina Suzanne , Northen Trent , Sasse Joelle
Published: July 2022

Root exudates are plant-derived, exported metabolites that likely shape root-associated microbial communities by acting as nutrients and signals. However, root exudation dynamics are unclear and thus also, if changes in exudation are reflected in changes in microbiome structure. Here, we assess commonalities and differences between exudates of different plant species, diurnal exudation dynamics, as well as the accompanying methodological aspects of exudate sampling.
We find that exudates should be collected for hours rather than days as many metabolite abundances saturate over time, that growth in sterile, nonsterile, or sugar-supplemented environments significantly alters exudate profiles (sugar-supplemented: more carbohydrates, less organic acids, organoheterocyclic compounds). Brachypodium distachyon grown in. nonsterile conditions further display distinct root morphology compared to sterile or sugar-supplemented conditions. A comparison of Arabidopsis thaliana, Brachypodium distachyon, and Medicago truncatula shoot, root, and exudate metabolite profiles revealed clear differences between these species, but also a core metabolome for tissues and exudates. Exudate profiles also exhibit a diurnal signature. These findings add to the methodological and conceptual groundwork for future exudate studies to improve understanding of plant-microbe interactions.
Using Video-based Examiner Score Comparison and Adjustment (VESCA) to compare the influence of examiners at different sites in a distributed Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE). Do Hawks Nest with Doves?
Authors: Yeates Peter , Maluf Adriano , Cope Natalie , McCray Gareth , McBain Stuart , Beardow Dominic , Fuller Richard , McKinley Bob
Published: July 2022

Purpose: Ensuring equivalence of examiners’ judgements within distributed objective structured clinical exams (OSCEs) is key to both fairness and validity but is hampered by lack of cross-over in the performances which different groups of examiners observe. This study develops a novel method called Video-based Examiner Score Comparison and Adjustment (VESCA) using it to compare examiners scoring from different OSCE sites for the first time.Materials/ Methods: Within a summative 16 station OSCE, volunteer students were videoed on each station and all examiners invited to score station-specific comparator videos in addition to usual student scoring. Linkage provided through the video-scores enabled use of Many Facet Rasch Modelling (MFRM) to compare 1/ examiner-cohort and 2/ site effects on students’ scores.Results: Examiner-cohorts varied by 6.9% in the overall score allocated to students of the same ability. Whilst only a tiny difference was apparent between sites, examiner-cohort variability was greater in one site than the other. Adjusting student scores altered their rank position by up to 3 deciles.Conclusions: Whilst comparatively limited examiner participation rates may limit interpretation of score adjustment in this instance, this study demonstrates the feasibility of using VESCA for quality assurance purposes in large scale distributed OSCEs.
Evaluating and Predicting a City’s Water Resources Carrying Capacity Using a Multiple Linear Regression Model
Authors: Zhang Ziying , Yin zhiwei , Chen Yuyao , Chen Jialun
Published: July 2022

To identify the status of the water resources carrying capacity in Taizhou City in China, this paper selected 17 evaluation indicators and used principal component analysis to analyze the factors influencing that capacity. Then, an evaluation model was established to assess the water resources carrying capacity in the same city from 2011 to 2020, and a multiple linear regression model was established to predict the total water consumption from 2021 to 2026. The results show that as Taizhou has constructed a water-saving society, its water resources carrying capacity has gradually increased. From 2021 to 2026, Taizhou's total water consumption is predicted to show a downward trend each year. Based on the comprehensive evaluation and prediction results of water resources carrying capacity, the paper proposed water resources management and control measures for Taizhou, providing scientific support for the rational development and utilization of water resources.
Cutaneous Body Image (CBI) in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS): a hospital- based cross-sectional study.
Authors: Koumaki Dimitra , Evangelou George , Papadakis Marios , Katoulis Alexander , Rovithi Evangelia , Apokidou Erato Solia , Krasagakis Konstantinos
Published: July 2022

Introduction:
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) has been linked with body image (BI) impairment and reduced quality of life (QoLWe sought to evaluate the associations between Cutaneous Body Image (CBI) and disease severity in HS patients.
Materials and methods
Between July 2020 and January 2022, a cross-sectional study was carried out including consecutive HS patients above the age of 16 who attended the Dermatology Department of a University Hospital. Disease Severity was graded with Hurley stage, HS-Physician’s Global Assessment (HS-PGA) scale, the Modified Sartorius scale (MSS), and Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR) score. Patients completed ten survey instruments including Patients’ Severity of disease, pain and pruritus scale, CBI, BI, Dermatology Quality of Life Index (DLQI), Skindex-16, EQ5D 5L, EQ- visual analogue scale (VAS), PHQ9, and GAD7.
Results
In total, 70 HS patients above 16-year-old participated, mean [SD] age, 34.44 [11.64] years; 49/70 (70%) males and 21/70 (30%) females. Mean ± SD CBI, DLQI, Skindex-16 total, EQ-5D-5L, EQ VAS, PHQ9 and GAD7 were 5.59 ± 1.58, 11.70 ± 8.88, 52.90 ± 27.75, 0.75 ± 0.21, 62.48 ± 21.12, 7.64 ± 5.56, 7.87 ± 5.23 respectively. Moderate to severe CBI dissatisfaction was reported by 36/70 (51.42%) patients. CBI was correlated with educational level (p < 0.01, r = 0.306), BI appearance evaluation (AE) (p < 0.01, r = 0.544), body areas satisfaction (BASS) (p < 0.01, r = 0.481), and overweight preoccupation subscale (OWPS) (p < 0.01, r=-0.267), and Skindex-16 (p < 0.01, r=-0.288).
Conclusion
Our study found that the mean of CBI in HS patients was 5.59 ± SD 1.58 and this was correlated with AE, BASS, OWP, and Skindex-16.
Effect of preoperative vitreoretinal adhesion on pseudophakic cystoid macular edema and choroidal expansion response
Authors: Sahinoglu-Keskek Nedime , Aslan Fatih
Published: July 2022

Purpose
To evaluate the changes in thickness of central retina, thickness of choroidal layers before and after cataract surgery and determine the impact of vitreoretinal surface status on these parameters.
Methods
Prospective and interventional study included 64 patients (64 eyes) with no macular disorder who underwent phacoemulsification, and had stored spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) imagings within 1 week preoperatively as well as at 1 and 3 months postoperatively. The evaluated SD-OCT parameters were central foveal thickness (CFT), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), the large choroidal vessel layer thickness (LCVL) and the Sattler’s layer/choriocapillaris complex thickness (SCVL), vitreoretinal status including “vitreomacular adhesion”(VMA), “no vitreoretinal contact visible”, and pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (PCME).
Results
Seventeen eyes (26.6%) had VMA. The preoperative SD-OCT parameters of the two groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The mean CFT values at postoperative first month were statistically significantly higher in VMA group (p = 0.01). Pseudophakic cystoid macular edema was observed in the postoperative first month in two eyes (3.1%) which also had VMA. Statistically significant difference was found between LCVL values of VMA and non-VMA group on the first- and third-month visits (p = 0.02, 0.04, respectively). No statistically significant difference was found between preoperative and postoperative SFCT values.
Conclusions
Pre-surgical vitreomacular adhesion may be a risk factor for development of PCME after uncomplicated cataract surgery. Choroidal expansion response after cataract surgery was not associated with pseudophakic cystoid edema.
Association of onset-to-surgery time with morbidity and mortality among patients with perforated peptic ulcer: an observational cohort study
Authors: Tan Kanglian , Tan Zhijian , Liang Hailong , Gai Juanjuan , Xie Runsheng , Xiao Yingchao , Cai Bingqin , Chen Zhiqiang
Published: July 2022

Background
Rapid surgery is recommended to improve outcomes after peptic ulcer perforation (PPU), but understanding of the optimal onset-to-surgery time for PPU is limited. The purpose of this study was to assess the optimal time of onset to surgery for PPU that improved patient outcomes.
Methods
Data of eligible patients with PPU at three hospitals from 2019 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were categorized as a onset-to-surgery time of ≤ 12 h (early surgery [ES]) or > 12 h (late surgery [LS]). The primary outcome was 30-day sepsis morbidity. Secondary outcomes included 30-day postoperative morbidity and 30-day mortality. Patients’ characteristics and surgical outcomes were also compared. A P value of < 0.05 is considered as statistically significant.
Results
Of 245 patients, 231 (94.3%; mean [SD] age, 62.6 [18.2] years; 153 [70.5%] male)were included in the final analysis. Among the remaining cases, 50.7% underwent ES and 49.3% underwent LS. LS was associated with increased sepsis morbidity within 30 days (ORadj 5.71, 95% CI 2.02–16.10, P = 0.001). In secondary analyses, LS was associated with an increased risk of postoperative morbidity (ORadj 1.93, 95% CI 1.06–3.53, P = 0.032). The 30-day mortality was 0.9% in the ES group and 4.7% in the LS group (ORadj 3.93, 95% CI 0.43–36.05, P = 0.227). In addition, the estimated blood loss during ES was significantly less than that during LS (P = 0.004). The operative time and hospital stay were shorter in the ES group (both P < 0.005). Moreover, patients in the LS group were more likely to need for ICU admission (39.3% vs 22.7%, P = 0.008).
Conclusions
This cohort study found evidence that more favorable outcomes were achieved when surgery was performed within 12 hours after the onset of severe abdominal pain among patients with PPU. These findings provide more clarity around the optimal time of onset to surgery for patients with PPU. However, more well powered researches are needed to confirm the findings.
Genetic diversity in the capsid protein of Porcine circovirus type 3 in Vietnam from 2018 to 2019
Authors: Dinh Phat Xuan , Nguyen Hai Ngoc , Lai Danh Cong , Nguyen Toan Tat , Nguyen Minh Nam , DO DUY tien
Published: July 2022

Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) was first detected in 2016 and has been recorded in many pig-producing countries around the world. PCV3 was quickly reported in Vietnamese pig farms. PCV3 was found in complex cases with multiple clinical syndromes in swine. This study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity among PCV3 strains circulating in Vietnam, which provide novel insights into molecular characteristics and genetic diversity of these PCV3 isolates. A total of 249 samples were collected from swine farms located in eight provinces of Vietnam. We identified 11.65% (29/249) of collected samples with the presence of PCV3. The ORF2 genes of 29 PCV3-positive samples were amplified, purified, and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis of these strains showed that 23/29 PCV3 strains belong to PCV3b sub-type, while the remaining strains fall into sub-type c and sub-type a (a-1 and a-2). Analysis of the ORF2 genes indicated that the 29 PCV3 strains had high sequence identity (96.90–100% at the genomic level and 96.19–100% at the amino acid level). Fifteen amino acid substitutions were found in the predicted B-cell epitopes in capsid protein of Vietnamese PCV3 strains.
The Impact of Two Hours of Electrocardiogram Teaching on Knowledge and Confidence
Authors: Pollock Ailís , O'Sullivan Jenna , Traynor Bryan , Vaughan Carl
Published: July 2022

Background
Electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation remains suboptimal among medical students and doctors in clinical practice. This study assessed the impact of a short period of ECG teaching provided to medical students on completion of their academic curriculum, focusing on specific aspects of ECG interpretation.
Objectives
The primary outcome was the impact on students’ knowledge. The secondary outcome was the impact on confidence in ECG interpretation.
Methods
Prospective cohort study of the impact of 2 hours of ECG teaching delivered by Cardiology trainees to final year medical students. Standardised 10 question examinations were given before and after the session. Questionnaires were given to assess confidence in ECG interpretation.
Results
Of 150 students who received teaching, 141 completed the pre-course examination and 139 completed the post-course examination (mean age 25.1 years; 55.5% female; 81.1% undergraduate). There was a statistically significant improvement in results after the course (p value < 0.001). The improvement was most significant in the assessment of heart rate and STEMI identification. There was a deterioration in the identification of spot diagnosis ECGs (p value 0.02). Thirty-nine students completed feedback questionnaires. There was a statistically significant improvement in confidence in ECG interpretation (p value < 0.001).
Conclusions
This study showed an improvement in both ECG knowledge and confidence in ECG interpretation following 2 hours of teaching. The assessment of simple concepts such as heart rate improved more significantly than complex concepts such as conduction abnormalities. Our findings suggest a benefit from dedicated ECG revision programmes with different methodologies used to teach different aspects of ECG interpretation.
Artemether-lumefantrine efficacy among adults on antiretroviral therapy in Malawi
Authors: Nyangulu Wongani , Mungwira Randy G. , Divala Titus H. , Nampota-Nkomba Nginache , Nyirenda Osward M. , Buchwald Andrea G. , Miller Jernelle , Earland Dominique E. , Adams Matthew , Plowe Christopher V. , Taylor Terrie E. , Mallewa Jane , vanOosterhout Joep J. , Parikh Sunil , Laurens Matthew B. , Laufer Miriam
Published: July 2022

BackgroundWhen people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (PWH) develop malaria, they are at risk of poor antimalarial treatment efficacy resulting from impairment in the immune response and/or drug-drug interactions that alter antimalarial metabolism. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of artemether-lumefantrine in a cohort of PWH on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and included measurement of day 7 lumefantrine levels in a subset to evaluate for associations between lumefantrine exposure and treatment response. MethodsAdults living with HIV ( ≥18 years), on ART for ≥ 6 months with undetectable HIV RNA viral load and CD4 count ≥250/mm3 were randomized to daily trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TS), weekly chloroquine (CQ) or no prophylaxis. After diagnosis of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria, we conducted therapeutic efficacy monitoring with PCR-correction according to WHO guidelines. We assessed plasma lumefantrine levels on day 7 in 100 episodes of uncomplicated malaria. A frailty proportional hazards model with random effects models to account for clustering examined the relationship between prophylactic treatment arm and malaria treatment failure within 28 days. Pearson’s Chi – squared test was used to compare lumefantrine concentrations among patients with treatment failure and adequate clinical and parasitological response (ACPR). ResultsWe observed 411 malaria episodes among 186 participants over five years. The unadjusted ACPR rate was 81% (95% CI 77 - 86). However, after PCR correction to exclude new infections, ACPR rate was 94% (95% CI 92 - 97). In our population of adults with HIV on ART, 54% (51/94) had levels below a previously defined optimal day 7 lumefantrine level of 200 ng/ml. This occurred more commonly among participants who were receiving an efavirenz-based ART compared to other ART regimens (OR 5.09 [95% CI 1.52-7.9]). Participants who experienced treatment failure had lower day 7 median lumefantrine levels (91 ng/ml [95% CI 48 – 231]) than participants who experienced ACPR (190 ng/ml [95% CI 101 – 378], p-value < 0.008). ConclusionRecurrent malaria infections are frequent in this population of PWH on ART. The PCR-adjusted efficacy of AL meets the WHO criteria for acceptable treatment efficacy. Nevertheless, lumefantrine levels tend to be low in this population, particularly in those on efavirenz-based regimens, with lower concentrations associated with more frequent malaria infections following treatment. These results highlight the importance of understanding drug-drug interactions when diseases commonly co-occur.