bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxin and capsule production by Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis influence pathogenicity in macrophages and animal models
Authors: Jiranantasak Treenate , Bluhm Andrew P. , Chabot Donald J. , Friedlander Arthur , Bowen Richard , McMillan Ian A. , Hadfield Ted L. , Hartwig Airn , Blackburn Jason K. , Norris Michael H.
Published: December 2024

Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis (Bcbva) causes anthrax-like disease in animals, particularly in the non-human primates and great apes of West and Central Africa. Genomic analyses revealed Bcbva as a member of the B. cereus species that carries two plasmids, pBCXO1 and pBCXO2, which have high sequence homology to the B. anthracis toxin and polyglutamate capsule encoding plasmids pXO1 and pXO2, respectively. To date, only a few studies have investigated the effect of variations in Bcbva sporulation, toxin, and capsule synthesis on animal and macrophage pathogenicity compared to B. anthracis, therefore more research is needed to gain a better understanding of the pathogenesis of this emerging infection. Here, we report that Bcbva can multiply and vegetatively survive on nutrient-rich media for a minimum of six days while generating spores. Sporulation of Bcbva occurred faster and more extensively than B. anthracis Ames. Bcbva tended to secrete less protective antigen (PA) than B. anthracis Ames when cultured in growth medium. We found Bcbva produced a substantially higher amount of attached poly-ƴ-D-glutamic acid (PDGA) capsule than B. anthracis Ames when grown in medium supplemented with human serum and CO2. In a phagocytosis assay, Bcbva spores showed reduced internalization by mouse macrophages compared to B. anthracis Ames. Our research demonstrated that Bcbva is more virulent than B. anthracis Ames using two in vivo models, Galleria mellonella larvae and guinea pigs. Following that, the efficacy of the veterinary vaccine Sterne strain 34F2 against anthrax-like disease was assessed in guinea pigs. Sterne vaccinated guinea pigs had significantly increased anti-PA titers compared to the unvaccinated control group. Toxin neutralizing antibody titers in vaccinated guinea pigs correlated with anti-PA titers. This indicates the Sterne vaccine provides adequate protection against Bcbva infection in laboratory animals.
Uncertainty and enterprise export recovery in China: Does the market integration matter?
Authors: Zhu Xiugang , Lv Kangjuan , Gao Jingkai
Published: December 2024

Maintaining the stability of foreign trade in an uncertain environment is crucial to building a new development pattern. By combing through the existing literature, this paper analyzes the impact of economic policy uncertainty on enterprise export recovery from the perspective of market integration. Firstly, theoretical analysis shows that economic policy uncertainty is expected to attenuate enterprise export recovery levels by amplifying export transaction costs. Secondly, the escalation in market integration is anticipated to mitigate the attenuation above effect through the mechanism of "enhanced production efficiency", while simultaneously amplifying it through the mechanism of "intensified market competition". Based on the empirical test of China’s micro-level data, it is found that the rise of market integration generally alleviates the weakening effect of economic policy uncertainty on enterprise export resilience, and this mitigation effect is more obvious for high-efficiency enterprises; The test results of further mechanism analysis and heterogeneity analysis are also consistent with the logic of theoretical analysis.
Positive secular trend in excess body weight in adolescents: A comparative study of 2007 and 2017/2018 data
Authors: de Souza Fernanda Ulsula , Miranda Clair Costa , Bim Mateus Augusto , de Lima Luiz Rodrigo Augustemak , Gonzaga Isadora , Claumann Gaia Salvador , Beltrame Thais Silva , Pinto André de Araújo , Pelegrini Andreia
Published: December 2024

Background

This study aimed to compare the prevalence of excess weight in adolescents living in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil, from 2007 to 2017/2018 and assess associations with physical activity level, screen time, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory fitness.

Methods

Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted with adolescents (14 to 19 years old). The body mass index was calculated from measurements of body weight (kg) and height (m2). Information on sociodemographic variables (sex, age, and economic level), screen time, and physical activity was collected using questionnaires. Motor tests were used to measure cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength.

Results

A positive secular trend in excess weight was observed in adolescents between 2017/2018 and 2007. Boys who spent more than 4h a day on screen-based activities and those with inadequate cardiorespiratory fitness were 1.96 and 3.03 times more likely, respectively, to have excess weight in 2017/2018 than in 2007. Boys (OR = 1.77) and girls (OR = 1.74) with inadequate muscle strength were more likely to have excess weight in 2017/2018 than their peers in 2007. Furthermore, boys and girls with adequate cardiorespiratory fitness had 64% and 90% lower chances, respectively, of having excess weight in 2017/2018 than in 2007.

Conclusions

A decade of observation revealed a positive secular trend in excess weight in adolescents, with significant associations with muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and screen time.
A simulation study on the process design and optimization pressure swing separation of azeotropic mixture methanol and toluene
Authors: Liu Xinxin , Maurice Ndungutse Jean , Claire Mugabekazi Joie , Gentil Bigirimana , Li Junning , Jiao Zengxiang , Giwa Abdulmoseen Segun
Published: December 2024

Pressure Swing Distillation (PSD) is the only advanced technology that does not require the addition of third components to the system to enhance the separation of azeotropic mixtures. It outperforms homogeneous distillation for separating pressure-sensitive azeotropic mixtures. In this study, we aimed to separate methanol and toluene using the Non-Random Two-Liquid (NRTL) and Aspen Plus thermodynamic calculation models to simulate a binary homogeneous azeotropic system. The standard PSD process was employed to separate methanol and toluene. Furthermore, multiple optimization sequences were utilized to sequentially optimize the process for obtaining higher purities of methanol and toluene while reducing the Total Annual Cost (TAC) and heat energy consumption. The effects of the optimization sequence on the TAC were investigated. The best optimization sequences for graphing in Origin or Aspen Plus were found to be RR1, NR, NF1, NF2, NT1, and NT2. Additionally, the Double-Effect Distillation (DED) optimization sequence is similar, with TAC as the primary function in the simulation and methanol and toluene purities up to 99.99%. In the DED simulation, the feed position and tray number were found to be sensitive to TAC by the order NR > NF1 > NF2 and NT1 > NT2. This study simulated PSD using the NRTL thermodynamic calculation model in Aspen Plus and generated visualizations using Origin software.
Nerve regeneration using a Bio 3D conduit derived from umbilical cord–Derived mesenchymal stem cells in a rat sciatic nerve defect model
Authors: Iwai Terunobu , Ikeguchi Ryosuke , Aoyama Tomoki , Noguchi Takashi , Yoshimoto Koichi , Sakamoto Daichi , Fujita Kazuaki , Miyazaki Yudai , Akieda Shizuka , Nagamura-Inoue Tokiko , Nagamura Fumitaka , Nakayama Koichi , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: December 2024

Human umbilical cord–derived mesenchymal stromal cells (UC-MSCs), which can be prepared in advance and are presumed to be advantageous for nerve regeneration, have potential as a cell source for Bio 3D conduits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nerve regeneration ability of Bio 3D conduits made from UC-MSCs using a rat sciatic nerve defect model. Methods: A Bio 3D conduit was fabricated using a Bio 3D printer by placing UC-MSC spheroids into thin needles according to predesigned 3D data. The conduit was transplanted to bridge the 5-mm gaps of Lewis rat sciatic nerve, and nerve regeneration was evaluated at 8 weeks (Bio 3D group). Transplantation of autologous nerve segments (autograft) and silicone tubes represented the positive and negative control groups, respectively. In a second experiment, immunological reactions were evaluated in Bio 3D, autograft, and allograft groups by histochemical staining of transplanted segments in Brown Norway rats. Results: The mean angle of attack value in the kinematic analysis was significantly better in the Bio 3D group (‒20.1 ± 0.5°) than in the silicone group (‒33.7 ± 1.5°) 8 weeks after surgery. The average diameters of myelinated axons were significantly larger in the Bio 3D group (3.61 ± 0.15 μm) than in the silicone group (3.07 ± 0.12 μm), and the number of myelinated axons was significantly higher in the Bio 3D group (11,201 ± 980) than in the silicone group (8117 ± 646). Histological findings (hematoxylin and eosin [HE] staining and anti-CD3 fluorescent immunostaining) showed that rejection was suppressed in the Bio 3D group compared to the allograft group. Based on macroscopic findings and histological findings (anti-human mitochondrial fluorescent immunostaining), UC-MSCs in the Bio 3D conduit disappeared gradually from week 1 to week 8. Conclusions: The Bio 3D conduit prepared from UC-MSCs was superior to the silicone tube and achieved comparable nerve regeneration to the autologous (autograft) group. Rejection was suppressed in the Bio 3D group compared to the allograft group. Although this study used a xenograft model, we speculate that rejection was low due to the characteristics of UC-MSCs. UC-MSCs are a useful cell source for Bio 3D conduits.
Comparing and analyzing the accuracy and stability of calculating SF6 tracer gas mixing results in mine tunnels using RNG model and DES model through experiments
Authors: Xu Fang , Liu Jian , Wang Dong
Published: December 2024

The tracer gas wind measurement method must measure the average concentration based on the known mixing distance of the tracer gas in order to accurately calculate the air volume. we established a T-shaped cross-ventilation duct with a square cross-sectional side of 0.3 m to simulate mine tunnels experimentally, and created the above duct model in Fluent software. Using the renormalization group (RNG k-ε) and detached eddy simulation (DES) models in Fluent to calculate the concentration and mixing distance of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer gas in air collection duct, and conducted SF6 blending experiments. In the first 7m stage of air collection duct, the SF6 mixing rate in the experiment was the fastest, while the RNG k-ε model was the slowest. However, after 7 meters, the mixing rate in the experiment rapidly slowed down, while there was no significant change in the RNG k-ε model. The rate of change of the DES model was between the above two results, but the concentration change was the most unstable. And the mixed distance results of the three were highly consistent. The results of this study provide a reference for selecting appropriate numerical simulation models for future calibration work of mine ventilation systems.
Lc—ms-based untargeted metabolomics reveals potential mechanisms of histologic chronic inflammation promoting prostate hyperplasia
Authors: Li Jiale , Wu Beiwen , Fan Guorui , Huang Jie , Li Zhiguo , Cao Fenghong
Published: December 2024

Background

Chronic prostatitis may be a risk factor for developing proliferative changes in the prostate, although the underlying mechanisms are not entirely comprehended.

Materials and methods

Fifty individual prostate tissues were examined in this study, consisting of 25 patients diagnosed with prostatic hyperplasia combined with histologic chronic inflammation and 25 patients diagnosed with prostatic hyperplasia alone. We employed UPLC-Q-TOF-MS-based untargeted metabolomics using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry to identify differential metabolites that can reveal the mechanisms that underlie the promotion of prostate hyperplasia by histologic chronic inflammation. Selected differential endogenous metabolites were analyzed using bioinformatics and subjected to metabolic pathway studies.

Results

Nineteen differential metabolites, consisting of nine up-regulated and ten down-regulated, were identified between the two groups of patients. These groups included individuals with combined histologic chronic inflammation and those with prostatic hyperplasia alone. Glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, and sphingolipids were primarily the components present. Metabolic pathway enrichment was conducted on the identified differentially expressed metabolites. Topological pathway analysis revealed the differential metabolites’ predominant involvement in sphingolipid, ether lipid, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. The metabolites involved in sphingolipid metabolism were Sphingosine, Cer (d18:1/24:1), and Phytosphingosine. The metabolites involved in ether lipid metabolism were Glycerophosphocholine and LysoPC (O-18:0/0:0). The metabolites involved in glycerophospholipid metabolism were LysoPC (P-18:0/0:0) and Glycerophosphocholine. with Impact > 0. 1 and FDR < 0. 05, the most important metabolic pathway was sphingolipid metabolism.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our findings suggest that patients with prostate hyperplasia and combined histologic chronic inflammation possess distinctive metabolic profiles. These differential metabolites appear to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of histologic chronic inflammation-induced prostate hyperplasia, primarily through the regulation of sphingolipids and glycerophospholipids metabolic pathways. The mechanism by which histologic chronic inflammation promotes prostate hyperplasia was elucidated through the analysis of small molecule metabolites. These findings support the notion that chronic prostatitis may contribute to an increased risk of prostate hyperplasia.
Association between vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism and essential hypertension: An updated systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression
Authors: Dakota Iwan , Adda’i Muhamad Fajri , Maulana Rido , Ivan Ignatius , Sukmawan Renan , Widyantoro Bambang
Published: December 2024

The association between Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms and essential hypertension (EH) remains controversial. We searched databases (Cochrane Library, EBSCO, EMBASE, LILACS, ProQuest, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer) for studies on VDR gene polymorphisms and EH until May 30, 2024, following PRISMA guidelines. RevMan 5.4.1 provided pooled odds ratio (OR) under Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium based on allele, additive, dominant, and recessive genetic models. Meta-regression was performed using Comprehensive Meta Analysis V3. Twenty-two studies from thirteen countries were analyzed. The recessive model suggested lower EH risk in individuals with the recessive allele (bb) of BsmI (OR: 0.81; 95%CI, 0.69 to 0.94, p = 0.007; I2 = 35%, p = 0.13). No significant associations were found for FokI, ApaI, and TaqI polymorphisms. Methodological quality significantly influenced EH risk associated with the FokI polymorphism across allele, additive, and dominant models (All p<0.0005). Male proportion influenced EH risk in the additive model for the FokI polymorphism (p = 0.0235), while age impacted risk in the recessive model (p = 0.0327). FokI polymorphism’s influence on EH risk varies by sex, age, and study quality. BsmI polymorphism is independently associated with lower EH risk in recessive homozygotes, with no significant associations found for ApaI and TaqI polymorphisms.
Toward the validation of crowdsourced experiments for lightness perception
Authors: Stark Emily N. , Turton Terece L. , Miller Jonah , Barenholtz Elan , Hong Sang , Bujack Roxana
Published: December 2024

Crowdsource platforms have been used to study a range of perceptual stimuli such as the graphical perception of scatterplots and various aspects of human color perception. Given the lack of control over a crowdsourced participant’s experimental setup, there are valid concerns on the use of crowdsourcing for color studies as the perception of the stimuli is highly dependent on the stimulus presentation. Here, we propose that the error due to a crowdsourced experimental design can be effectively averaged out because the crowdsourced experiment can be accommodated by the Thurstonian model as the convolution of two normal distributions, one that is perceptual in nature and one that captures the error due to variability in stimulus presentation. Based on this, we provide a mathematical estimate for the sample size needed to produce a crowdsourced experiment with the same power as the corresponding in-person study. We tested this claim by replicating a large-scale, crowdsourced study of human lightness perception with a diverse sample with a highly controlled, in-person study with a sample taken from psychology undergraduates. Our claim was supported by the replication of the results from the latter. These findings suggest that, with sufficient sample size, color vision studies may be completed online, giving access to a larger and more representative sample. With this framework at hand, experimentalists have the validation that choosing either many online participants or few in person participants will not sacrifice the impact of their results.
Temporal response patterns of Layer 4 rat barrel cortex neurons across various naturalistic whisker motions
Authors: Tang Dinh K. , Flegg Mark B. , Rajan Ramesh
Published: December 2024

A central topic in neuroscience is the neural coding problem which aims to decipher how the brain signals sensory information through neural activity. Despite significant advancements in this area, the characterisation of information encoding through the precise timing of spikes in the somatosensory cortex is limited. Here, we utilised a comprehensive dataset from previous studies to identify and characterise temporal response patterns of Layer 4 neurons of the rat barrel cortex to five distinct stimuli with varying complexities: Basic, Contact, Whisking, Rough, and Smooth. A Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) clustering analysis was applied to identify distinct temporal response patterns. We found that three stimuli (Rough, Smooth, and Contact) produced multiple temporal response patterns while Whisking and Basic stimuli exhibited a single pattern for all conditions. These patterns of neuronal responses were differentiated by the speed and strength of the responses when more than two clusters were present. Investigation into stimulus complexity indicated that stimuli with lower complexity scores (Whisking and Basic) resulted in fewer distinct response patterns, reflecting the reduced variability in the input information signal to Layer 4. In contrast, stimuli with higher complexity scores (Rough, Smooth, and Contact) produced distinct temporal response patterns, likely driven by a broader range of deflection amplitude variations and whisker direction changes. Further analysis of neuronal responses to Contact, Rough, and Smooth stimuli revealed three broad groups of temporal response patterns: phasic on-off response, prolonged on-off response, and tonic response. We speculate that these groups of temporal response patterns encode information about the velocity, acceleration, position, direction, and continuous monitoring of whisker deflection stimuli. The observed patterns contribute to the understanding of how neurons in Layer 4 of the rat barrel cortex specialise in encoding specific features of sensory stimuli and highlight the role of stimulus complexity in shaping neuronal responses.
Clusters of diet, physical activity, screen-time and sleep among adolescents and associations with 3-year change in indicators of adiposity
Authors: Alosaimi Noura , Sherar Lauren B. , Griffiths Paula , Hamer Mark , Pearson Natalie
Published: December 2024

Background

Clusters of health behaviours could impact changes in adiposity among adolescents over time. This study examines the clustering of screen time, physical activity, dietary behaviours and sleep, and the associations with 3-year changes in indicators of adiposity.

Methods

Data from the UK’s Millennium Cohort Study were utilised when participants were aged 14 and 17 years respectively. At age 14, demographics, screen time, dietary behaviours and sleep duration were measured via self-report, and physical activity using wrist worn accelerometers. Height, weight, and percent body fat were measured at age 14 and 17 years. Behavioural clusters were determined using k-means clustering analysis, and associations with change in indicators of adiposity between age 14 and 17 years were examined using multivariate regression models.

Results

Three clusters were identified at age 14, a ‘healthy cluster’, a ‘mixed cluster’, and an ‘unhealthy cluster’ in the analytical sample of 3,065 participants (52.5% girls). The ‘unhealthy’ cluster was the most prevalent cluster among boys (53%), while the ‘healthy cluster’ was most prevalent among girls (55.9%). Adolescents in healthy clusters had a lower BMI z-score and percent body fat at age 14 compared to those in the unhealthy and mixed clusters, and maintained lower scores at age 17. Boys in the mixed and unhealthy clusters at 14 years had a lower change in BMI z-score between 14 and 17 compared to boys in the healthy cluster.

Conclusion

Adolescents in the healthy cluster had lower BMI z-scores and percent body fat at age 14 years than those in the unhealthy cluster, and they maintained this lower level at age 17. Given the upward trend in BMI during this period, this maintenance could be interpreted as a positive outcome. Further prospective research is needed to better understand these associations as well as research examining the stability of cluster membership over time.
The pseudoknot region and poly-(C) tract comprise an essential RNA packaging signal for assembly of foot-and-mouth disease virus
Authors: Neil Chris , Newman Joseph , Stonehouse Nicola J. , Rowlands David J. , Belsham Graham J. , Tuthill Tobias J.
Published: December 2024

Virus assembly is a crucial step for the completion of the viral replication cycle. In addition to ensuring efficient incorporation of viral genomes into nascent virions, high specificity is required to prevent incorporation of host nucleic acids. For picornaviruses, including FMDV, the mechanisms required to fulfil these requirements are not well understood. However, recent evidence has suggested that specific RNA sequences dispersed throughout picornavirus genomes are involved in packaging. Here, we have shown that such sequences are essential for FMDV RNA packaging and have demonstrated roles for both the pseudoknot (PK) region and the poly-(C) tract in this process, where the length of the poly-(C) tract was found to influence the efficiency of RNA encapsidation. Sub-genomic replicons containing longer poly-(C) tracts were packaged with greater efficiency in trans, and viruses recovered from transcripts containing short poly-(C) tracts were found to have greatly extended poly-(C) tracts after only a single passage in cells, suggesting that maintaining a long poly-(C) tract provides a selective advantage. We also demonstrated a critical role for a packaging signal (PS) located in the pseudoknot (PK) region, adjacent to the poly-(C) tract, as well as several other non-essential but beneficial PSs elsewhere in the genome. Collectively, these PSs greatly enhanced encapsidation efficiency, with the poly-(C) tract possibly facilitating nearby PSs to adopt the correct conformation. Using these data, we have proposed a model where interactions with capsid precursors control a transition between two RNA conformations, directing the fate of nascent genomes to either be packaged or alternatively to act as templates for replication and/or for protein translation.
Stress contingent changes in Hog1 pathway architecture and regulation in Candida albicans
Authors: Day Alison M. , Cao Min , Dantas Alessandra da Silva , Ianieva Olga , Herrero-de-Dios Carmen , Brown Alistair J. P. , Quinn Janet
Published: December 2024

The Hog1 stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) is a key mediator of stress resistance and virulence in Candida albicans. Hog1 activation via phosphorylation of the canonical TGY motif is mediated by the Pbs2 MAPKK, which itself is activated by the Ssk2 MAPKKK. Although this three-tiered SAPK signalling module is well characterised, it is unclear how Hog1 activation is regulated in response to different stresses. Functioning upstream of the Ssk2 MAPKKK is a two-component related signal transduction system comprising three sensor histidine kinases, a phosphotransfer protein Ypd1, and a response regulator Ssk1. Here, we report that Ssk1 is a master regulator of the Hog1 SAPK that promotes stress resistance and Hog1 phosphorylation in response to diverse stresses, except high osmotic stress. Notably, we find Ssk1 regulates Hog1 in a two-component independent manner by functioning to promote interactions between the Ssk2 and Pbs2 kinases. We propose this function of Ssk1 is important to maintain a basal level of Hog1 phosphorylation which is necessary for oxidative stress, but not osmotic stress, mediated Hog1 activation. We find that osmotic stress triggers robust Pbs2 phosphorylation which drives its dissociation from Ssk2. In contrast, Pbs2 is not robustly phosphorylated following oxidative stress and the Ssk1-mediated Ssk2-Pbs2 interaction remains intact. Instead, oxidative stress-stimulated increases in phosphorylated Hog1 is dependent on the inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatases that negatively regulate Hog1 coupled with the Ssk1-mediated promotion of basal Hog1 activity. Furthermore, we find that inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatases is linked to the hydrogen peroxide induced oxidation of these negative regulators in a mechanism that is partly dependent on thioredoxin. Taken together these data reveal stress contingent changes in Hog1 pathway architecture and regulation and uncover a novel mode of action of the Ssk1 response regulator in SAPK regulation.
Systematic assessment of COVID-19 host genetics using whole genome sequencing data
Authors: Schmidt Axel , Casadei Nicolas , Brand Fabian , Demidov German , Vojgani Elaheh , Abolhassani Ayda , Aldisi Rana , Butler-Laporte Guillaume ,   DeCOI host genetics group, Alawathurage T. Madhusankha , Augustin Max , Bals Robert , Bellinghausen Carla , Berger Marc Moritz , Bitzer Michael , Bode Christian , Boos Jannik , Brenner Thorsten , Cornely Oliver A. , Eggermann Thomas , Erber Johanna , Feldt Torsten , Fuchsberger Christian , Gagneur Julien , Göpel Siri , Haack Tobias , Häberle Helene , Hanses Frank , Heggemann Julia , Hehr Ute , Hellmuth Johannes C. , Herr Christian , Hinney Anke , Hoffmann Per , Illig Thomas , Jensen Björn-Erik Ole , Keitel Verena , Kim-Hellmuth Sarah , Koehler Philipp , Kurth Ingo , Lanz Anna-Lisa , Latz Eicke , Lehmann Clara , Luedde Tom , Maj Carlo , Mian Michael , Miller Abigail , Muenchhoff Maximilian , Pink Isabell , Protzer Ulrike , Rohn Hana , Rybniker Jan , Scaggiante Federica , Schaffeldt Anna , Scherer Clemens , Schieck Maximilian , Schmidt Susanne V. , Schommers Philipp , Spinner Christoph D. , Vehreschild Maria J. G. T. , Velavan Thirumalaisamy P. , Volland Sonja , Wilfling Sibylle , Winter Christof , Richards J. Brent ,   DeCOI, Heimbach André , Becker Kerstin , Ossowski Stephan , Schultze Joachim L. , Nürnberg Peter , Nöthen Markus M. , Motameny Susanne , Nothnagel Michael , Riess Olaf , Schulte Eva C. , Ludwig Kerstin U.
Published: December 2024

Courses of SARS-CoV-2 infections are highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic to lethal COVID-19. Though research has shown that host genetic factors contribute to this variability, cohort-based joint analyses of variants from the entire allelic spectrum in individuals with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections are still lacking. Here, we present the results of whole genome sequencing in 1,220 mainly vaccine-naïve individuals with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, including 827 hospitalized COVID-19 cases. We observed the presence of autosomal-recessive or likely compound heterozygous monogenic disorders in six individuals, all of which were hospitalized and significantly younger than the rest of the cohort. We did not observe any suggestive causal variants in or around the established risk gene TLR7. Burden testing in the largest population subgroup (i.e., Europeans) suggested nominal enrichments of rare variants in coding and non-coding regions of interferon immune response genes in the overall analysis and male subgroup. Case-control analyses of more common variants confirmed associations with previously reported risk loci, with the key locus at 3p21 reaching genome-wide significance. Polygenic scores accurately captured risk in an age-dependent manner. By enabling joint analyses of different types of variation across the entire frequency spectrum, this data will continue to contribute to the elucidation of COVID-19 etiology.
Delisting From Liver Transplant List for Improvement and Recompensation Among Decompensated Patients at One Year
Authors: Singal Ashwani K. , Pannerselvam Deepan , Arab Juan P. , Im Gene , Kuo Yong-Fang
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Data are limited regarding etiology-specific trends for delisting and recompensation for liver disease improvement among liver transplantation (LT)-listed candidates in the United States.

METHODS AND RESULTS:

A retrospective cohort (2002–2022) using United Network of Organ Sharing database examined etiology-specific trends for delisting and recompensation due to liver disease improvement among candidates listed for LT. Of 120,451 listings in adults, 34,444 (2002-2008), 38,296 (2009–2015), 47,711 (2016–2022) were analyzed. A total of 7,196 (6.2%) were delisted for liver disease improvement, with 5.6%, 7.2%, and 5.3% in 3 respective time periods, Armitage trend P < 0.001. Delisting for improvement of liver disease was 8.1%, 5.8%, 4.0%, 3.9%, and 3.1% among listings for alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD n = 41,647), hepatitis C virus infection (HCV n = 38,797), autoimmune (n = 12,131), metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH n = 22,162), hepatitis B virus infection (HBV n = 3,027), and metabolic liver disease (MLD n = 2,687), respectively. One thousand one hundred twenty-two (15.6% or 0.9%) were delisted for improvement at 1 year with cumulative incidence competing for waitlist mortality and receipt of LT of 1.18, 1.17, 0.64, 0.59, 0.50, and 0.34 for ALD, HBV, HCV, MASH, MLD, and autoimmune, respectively. In a fine and gray model, compared with metabolic, subhazard ratio (95% confidence interval) on delisting at 1 year was 3.47 (31.6–3.81) and 3.44 (2.96–3.99), P < 0.001, for ALD and for HBV, respectively. Of 7,196 delisting for improvement, 567 of 5,750 (9.9%) decompensated at listing had recompensation, 19.5% for HBV, 16.6% for MLD and autoimmune, 9.9% ALD, 8.6% for HCV, and 6.9% for MASH. In a logistic regression model among delisted candidates for improved liver disease, HBV vs MASH etiology was associated with recompensation, 2.37 (1.40–4.03), P < 0.001.

DISCUSSION:

ALD and HBV are most frequent etiologies for delisting due to liver disease improvement. About 10% of delisted patients develop recompensation, with HBV etiology most likely to recompensate. Models and biomarkers are needed to identify these candidates for optimal use of deceased donor livers.
Portable Gamma Irradiation System with 57Co, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co for On-site Calibration of Environmental Radiation Monitoring Devices
Authors: Kato Masahiro , Ishii Junya , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Sugiyama Midori , Kurosawa Tadahiro
Published: December 2024

Background: A portable gamma irradiation system was developed for on-site calibration of environmental radiation monitoring devices. This system uses a portable collimator and gammaray sources such as 57Co, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co, each with a nominal radioactivity of 10 MBq or less.Materials and Methods: The air kerma rate produced by the system was measured using a spherical ionization chamber with a 10 L sensitive volume. This chamber was calibrated against the air kerma rate measured with primary standard ionization chambers. The system’s performance was evaluated by comparing the calibration results of the monitoring device with those obtained using a conventional method involving a standard ionization chamber for outdoor use.Results and Discussion: The calibration coefficient of the spherical ionization chamber was within ±2% of the value of 3.029×103 Gy/C for photon energies ranging from 50 keV to 1,250 keV. The air kerma rate of the irradiation field produced by the portable system ranged from 0.17 μGy/hr to 4.7 μGy/hr, with an uncertainty between 2.4% and 10%. The calibration coefficients obtained using the portable system were consistent with those from the conventional method.Conclusion: The portable gamma irradiation system offers significant advantages, including preventing damage to standard ionization chambers used outdoors and reducing measurement time compared to conventional methods. Due to its ease of construction and implementation, the system is expected to be useful not only for on-site calibration of monitoring devices but also in various radiation safety management scenarios.
Investigación - Categoría C. Tesis Doctorales
Authors: VV. AA.
Published: December 2024

Premio ARQUISUR Investigación - Categoría C. Tesis Doctorales
Los trabajos presentados al Premio ARQUISUR Investigación son aquellos que derivan de procesos de producción del conocimiento, elaborados por docentes y/o estudiantes de las Facultades o Escuelas de Arquitectura de ARQUISUR, como parte de su actividad académica, independientemente de su fuente de financiación, si existiera.
Con el fin de promover la investigación de excelencia, desde el año 2024 se convoca al Premio de Investigación - Categoría C: Tesis Doctoral ARQUISUR.
Podrán participar de este concurso las tesis doctorales de los Doctorados en Arquitectura de Facultades o Escuelas de Arquitectura de ARQUISUR, que se encuentren concluidas y defendidas hasta 2 (dos) años antes del momento de la postulación y hayan sido elaboradas por docentes y/o estudiantes de posgrado de las Facultades y Escuelas de Arquitectura miembros de ARQUISUR.
Entrevistas imaginarias con el pasado. Una experiencia de interpelación al pasado reciente con adolescentes y jóvenes
Authors: Tornay Lizel , Álvarez Victoria , Laino Sanchis Fabricio , Paganini Mariana
Published: December 2024

Este trabajo presenta y analiza el proyecto "Entrevistas imaginarias con el pasado", un taller desarrollado a partir de la hipótesis de que las narrativas más difundidas sobre el pasado reciente enfrentan dificultades para interpelar a las nuevas generaciones. A partir de esta premisa, propusimos la creación de una serie de podcasts en los que adolescentes y jóvenes de entre 16 y 20 años conversan con personajes imaginarios que vivieron la última dictadura en Argentina y que representan diferentes roles: víctimas, victimarios o “sujetos implicados”. Estos personajes fueron creados e interpretados por los y las jóvenes participantes. Los podcasts son el resultado de un taller organizado en el año 2021 por el equipo de la Universidad de Buenos Aires, en el marco del proyecto MSCA-RISE SPEME - Questioning Traumatic Heritage: Spaces of Memory in Europe, Argentina, Colombia.
uso de Chat GPT en la enseñanza de las Ciencias Sociales
Authors: Do Santos María Constanza
Published: December 2024

En los últimos años, la inteligencia artificial ha transformado profundamente diversos aspectos de la vida, y la educación no ha sido una excepción. A nivel mundial, los docentes se enfrentan al desafío de integrar herramientas como los chatbots, específicamente ChatGPT, en el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje. Estos programas, capaces de generar respuestas rápidas y precisas, ofrecen una ventaja significativa para los estudiantes, al ahorrar tiempo en la búsqueda y análisis de información. Sin embargo, esta facilidad también presenta desafíos para los educadores, quienes pueden sentirse exigidos a repensar sus estrategias pedagógicas para no verse condicionados por estas tecnologías. Este trabajo se propone analizar cómo la inteligencia artificial puede ser una aliada en la enseñanza de las Ciencias Sociales en la educación secundaria, explorando tanto sus beneficios como sus limitaciones. A través de ejemplos concretos, se muestra cómo la IA puede diversificar y enriquecer el enfoque pedagógico, transformando la manera en que se abordan los temas en el aula.
MINIMIZING PATIENT LENGTH OF STAY IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT AT ANNA MEDIKA GENERAL HOSPITAL, MADURA
Authors: Lumintu Ida , Rohman Hidayatur , Annisa Rullie
Published: December 2024

Prolonged length of stay (LOS) in emergency departments (EDs) negatively impacts patient care and operational efficiency. This study applies simulation modeling using ARENA software to analyze and optimize ED operations at Anna Medika General Hospital in Madura, Indonesia. Three improvement scenarios were evaluated: adding one nurse, one bed, and one general practitioner. The results show that adding a general practitioner reduced LOS significantly, from 184.64 minutes (3.08 hours) to 154.37 minutes (2.57 hours), making it the most effective intervention. However, the findings emphasize the importance of a holistic approach, as standalone interventions may only address isolated bottlenecks. Combining targeted staffing increases with process optimizations provides the most sustainable improvements. This study highlights simulation’s value in evaluating operational strategies, enabling hospitals to make data-driven decisions that balance cost, resource allocation, and patient satisfaction.
Exploring the potential of beta rhizobium in nitrogen fixation and agricultural sustainability
Authors: Amal SS , Raghu R , Anandham R , Djanaguiraman M
Published: December 2024

Some of the earliest discovered nitrogen-fixing symbiotic prokaryotes werethe ‘Rhizobia,’ microbes that associate with legume. A relatively recent groupof nitrogen-fixing bacteria, beta-rhizobia plays a significant role in sustainableagriculture. Detailed insights into the relationships between beta-rhizobiaand leguminous plants can be found in the phylogeny and taxonomy sectionon legumes. Here, we provide a discussion of recent literature focusing on themolecular aspects of beta-rhizobia-plant interactions, with potentialimplications for enhancing nitrogen fixation beyond nodulation processes.Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of coordinating knowledge fromother disciplines in to harness these beneficial microbes and advancesustainable crop farming practices. In other words, this review aims to explorethe potential of beta-rhizobia and their contributions to sustainableagriculture.
Exploring genetic parameters and trait relationships in the F2 population of double cross hybrid of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Shanmugabhavatharani R , Saraswathi T , Kavitha M , Manivannan N , Seenivasan N , Harish S
Published: December 2024

An investigation was undertaken to examine the genetic parameters of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), along with path and correlation analyses, to improve yield and quality attributes utilizing 16 quantitative and qualitative indicators in the F2 population of a double cross hybrid (H1), comprising 250 plants. The results of the investigation revealed a high coefficient of variation (both phenotypic (PCV) and genotypic (GCV)), coupled with high heritability (>95%) in traits such as average fruit weight (SFW), number of fruits/clusters (NFC), and lycopene content (LC). The selection of these traits suggests a strong potential for genetic improvement. The correlation analysis showed a strong and significant association with yield and its contributing traits, like the weight of the single fruit (0.869), followed by the height of the plant(0.843) and the number of fruits/plant(0.793). Path analysis also showed a substantial direct effect on yield from the number of fruits/plant (0.419) and weight of single fruit (0.416). This study's selection of these traits insights valuable breeding strategies for developing tomato varieties with high yield and enhanced nutritional quality.
Assessment of maize evapotranspiration, water requirements and productivity using weather data in Coimbatore’s semiarid climate
Authors: Raguramakrishnan M , Pazhanivelan S , Raju M , Kumaraperumal R , Ravi KV , Senthil A
Published: December 2024

Accurately estimating crop water use is crucial for efficient water management in conservation agriculture, especially in Coimbatore's semiarid climate. This study assessed maize water use and productivity over three growing seasons (2023-2024) at AC&RI, Coimbatore. Irrigation applied each season varied between 500.8mm and 554.1 mm, averaging 535.8 mm, while total water supply ranged from 810.6 to 985.3 mm. Actual evapotranspiration (ETa) was estimated using locally developed crop coefficient curves (Lkc) and FAO crop coefficients. Water productivity for maize was calculated based on these estimates. Daily ETa for maize ranged from 0.9mm to 8.2 mm. Other than the different seasons, ETa varied from 342.6 to 372 mm, averaging 355.6 mm with the Lkc curve. By FAO Kc, ETa ranged from 400.8mm to 479.1 mm, with an average of 444.2 mm. The irrigation requirement ranged from 579.6mm to 672.7 mm, with an average of 629.5 mm using LKc. Using FAO Kc, the range was 637.8mm to 762.9 mm, with an average of 718 mm. Crop water use efficiency (CWUE) ranged from 0.8 and 0.9 kg/m³, with an average of 0.9 kg/m³. The evapotranspiration water use efficiency (ETWUE) ranged from 2.0 to 2.1 kg/m³, with an average of 2.1 kg/m³. The irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) varied across seasons, averaging 1.4 kg/m³. Strong correlations were observed between CWUE, IWUE, and the amount of seasonal irrigation (R² = 0.98 and 0.99, respectively). CWUE and ETWUE strongly correlated with IWUE (R² = 0.98 and 0.75, respectively). These findings suggest that maize irrigation in Coimbatore's semiarid regions should be tailored to local conditions to enhance water productivity.
Variability analysis of Phytophthora meadii - A major causal agent of capsule rot (Azhukal) disease in small cardamom
Authors: Joel Clement W , Kalpana K , Yesuraja I , Eraivan AAK , Manonmani K , Sabarinathan KG , Rajangam J , Mini ML , Ravindran C , Ayyandurai M
Published: December 2024

Capsule rot disease, caused by Phytophthora spp., pose a significant challenge to the cultivation of cardamom and other spices and plantation crops, leading to considerable yield losses. In the present study, the impact of P. meadii on small cardamom was assessed in the primary cardamom-growing regions of Tamil Nadu and Kerala through a roving survey conducted during 2023–2024. The survey revealed varying levels of disease severity, ranging from 8.23% to 52.80%. The highest incidence was recorded in the Udumbanchola region (52.80%), while the lowest was observed in Thandikudi (8.32%). A total of eight isolates of Phytophthora (designated as PHY-1 to PHY-8) were collected from diseased samples and purified using the single hyphal tip method. Pathogenicity studies were conducted to evaluate the virulence of these isolates through two different methods: a detached capsule assay and an in-planta assay. Among the 8 pathogenic isolates, PHY-4 exhibited the highest level of virulence (75%) and presented typical symptoms of capsule rot disease. The isolates were analyzed for cultural and morphological variability. All eight isolates displayed distinct variations in growth patterns and sporangial morphology. Optimal growth and development of P. meadii were observed at temperatures ranging from 25–30ºC. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses revealed specific morphological characteristics of the isolates, including hyaline, coenocytic mycelium and distinct sporangial structures.
Pre-harvest bagging: Optimizing physical and quality attributes of banganapalli mango (Mangifera indica L)
Authors: Veeramanikandan M , Muthuvel I , Soman P , Shanmugasundaram KA , Senthil A , Suganthi A
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of various pre-harvest fruit baggingmaterials on the quality and development of the Banganapalli mango cultivar.The bagging materials tested included red/black double-layered bags,brown/black double-layered bags, single-layered brown paper bags, singlelayeredwhite paper bags, butter paper bags, agro-plastic sleeve bags, and acontrol (no bagging). Bagging treatments were applied 45 days after thefruit set. The results demonstrated that fruits bagged in brown/black double-layered bags significantly improved fruit retention (78.24%) and fruitweight (641.8 g), along with enhancements in fruit peel color, firmness, andkey quality attributes such as total soluble solids (17.72°Brix), TSS: acid ratio(60.17), ascorbic acid content (54.37 mg/100g), and beta-carotene content(12,687.25 ?g/100g of pulp). The shelf life of these fruits extended to16 days, with a notable reduction in fruit fly infestation and disease incidence(4.89%). Additionally, enzymatic activities such as catalase (14.9%),peroxidase (10.7%), and ?-glucosidase (4.92%) were increased. These findingssuggest that pre-harvest bagging is highly effective in enhancing fruitquality and resistance to biotic stresses, offering mango farmers a valuablestrategy to produce superior-quality fruit and achieve higher returns in bothdomestic and international markets.
Intrathoracic Goiter and Thyroid Nodule: Case Report
Authors:   Centro Médico Nacional 20 de Noviembre, Issste. Felix Cuevas 540, Col. Del Valle Sur, Delegación Benito Juárez, Ciudad De México, México, PC 03104, Castillo-Vergara Agustín
Published: December 2024

Introduction: There is a strong correlation between the incidents. of substernal goiter and cervical goiter and endemic in some regions. The incidence of substernal goiter is difficult to evaluate, but between 3 and 21% of these patients undergo thyroidectomy, as was our case. This variation reflects the lack of a definitive definition of substernal goiter. Clinical Case: A 57-year-old female from the outpatient clinic was referred from another hospital center with a history of total thyroidectomy due to goiter and compressive symptoms in 2009, post-surgical hypothyroidism with subsequent management with levothyroxine 100 mcg per day. His current condition began in 2021 with myalgia, low back pain, dyspnea with medium effort and a sensation of retrosternal oppression, so he went to a doctor, where a chest x-ray was performed, finding an intrathoracic tumor, so a fine-needle-guided biopsy was performed. with a report of ectopic thyroid tissue (upper mediastinum) benign category II, for which she was referred to this unit. She persists with low back pain, which increases with physical activity. She denies dysphagia or other additional symptoms. Discussion: Primary intrathoracic goiter is a rare congenital entity that arises from accessory and/or ectopic thyroid tissue originating from an orthotopic thyroid gland and can cause complications such as respiratory obstruction and malignancy. These entities are generally managed surgically due to an increased risk of respiratory complications or malignancy. In contrast, secondary thyroid goiter is a more common entity arising from orthotopic thyroid tissue and its differential diagnosis should be considered when mediastinal masses are incidentally found.