bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-cell immune landscape of measurable residual disease in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Huang Xiao-Jun , Mo Xiaodong , Zhang Weilong , Fu Guo-Mei , Chang Yingjun , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Xu Lan-Ping , Wang Yu , Yan Chen-Hua , Shen Meng-Zhu , Wei Qiuxia , Yan Changjian
Published: November 2023

Measurable residual disease (MRD) is a powerful prognostic factor for relapse in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We applied the single-cell RNA sequencing to bone marrow (BM) samples from MRD-positive (n = 20) and MRD-negative (n = 12) patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. A comprehensive immune landscape with 184,231 cells was created. Compared with CD8+ T cells enriched in MRD-negative patients (MRD-_CD8), those enriched in MRD-positive patients (MRD+_CD8) showed lower expression levels of cytotoxicity-related genes. Monocyte clusters (MRD+_M) and B-cell clusters (MRD+_B) were both enriched in MRD-positive patients. Conversion from an MRD-positive state to an MRD-negative state accompanied with the increase of MRD-_CD8 clusters and vice versa. MRD-enriched cell clusters employed the macrophage migration inhibitory factor pathway to regulate MRD-_CD8 clusters. These firstly revealed characteristics of immune cell landscape in MRD positivity, which will enable a better understanding of the immune mechanisms for MRD conversion.
Investigation into the damping coefficient of particles engaged in elastic collisions through the utilization of the acoustic sampling method
Authors: Shi Xinlin , Li Runzi , Zhong Wenzhen , Zhao Qingxin , Sun Dengchao
Published: November 2023

The damping coefficient, an important parameter in discrete element simulations, characterizes the energy dissipation that occurs during particle collisions. Nevertheless, the factors that affect the damping coefficient are not yet clearly defined, and the precise measurement of this coefficient for most materials remains unresolved. This investigation explored the damping coefficients of 9 representative particles using the acoustic sampling method. The relationship between the damping coefficient, collision velocity, material density, and specific strength was also analyzed. This study reveals that the damping coefficient is not highly influenced by velocity in particles composed of highly elastic materials. However, particles made of moderately and weakly elastic materials exhibit an increase in the damping coefficient as velocity rises. Furthermore, the damping coefficient of particles displays a linear association with material density. Materials with lower specific strength exhibit a wider range of variation in their damping coefficients, whereas materials with higher specific strength maintain a more stable damping coefficient around 0.4.
Refractive and Biometric Outcomes Following Intravitreal Injection of Ranibizumab in Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Long -Term Study.
Authors: Bassiouny Rania , Abdelhameed Ameera , Torky Magda , Gaafar Walid
Published: November 2023

Objective: To evaluate the long-term effects of intravitreal injection of ranibizumab (IVR) as monotherapy for ROP on refractive and biometric ocular parameters.
Methods: This prospective case-control study included three groups were included: the injection group (premature infants who received single IVR) and two control groups: spontaneous ROP regression and premature children with no ROP. Spherical equivalent (SE), average keratometry (AVG-K), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), and axial length (AL) were analyzed at ages of > 1 year and >5 years.
Results: Compared to the control groups, the injection group had a higher prevalence of very high myopia and high myopia at both visits, a significantly longer AL (P = 0.017) and higher LT (P <0.001)
at the age of > 1 year and a significantly higher AVG-K (P= 0.003) and AL (P = 0.044) at the age of
>5 years. The injection group showed a significant increase (P <0.001) in SE, AVG-K, ACD, and AL (P = 0.008) with decrease in LT (P= 0.003) at the second visit compared to the first one.
Conclusion: ROP treatment with IVR is associated with a high prevalence of high myopia and very high myopia, which is related to a longer AL, anterior segment changes, and disease severity. Continuous monitoring of the refractive status following IVR treatment is recommended to avoid the risk of amblyopia.
Application of Mask R-CNN for Defect Detection in Printed Circuit Board manufacturing
Authors: Calabrese Maurizio , Agnusdei Leonardo , Fontana Gianmauro , Papadia Gabriele , Prete Antonio Del
Published: November 2023

In the last decades, machine vision and Machine Learning (ML) techniques have seen significant improvements in the development of new algorithms thanks to the increment of hardware performance. For this reason, applying computer vision for specific technological problems became an important opportunity to introduce some significant improvements in the manufacturing context. Indeed, several studies on the application of ML in the manufacturing process are available. A good application of ML is monitoring the qualitative aspects of a manufacturing process. This paper proposes a preliminary study to analyze the ML capabilities to perform Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) for quality control in the manufacturing of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). In this specific case, the target has been to investigate the performance of the method Mask R-CNN to individuate the main PCB defects after the manufacturing process. This study has been performed considering an available open-source dataset employed by other ML techniques. For this reason, this study has aimed to verify the effectiveness of the adopted ML solution to manage this application. The chosen open-source dataset individuates the opportune class of products and related defects for the context of interest. In this specific case, this work has been carried out to gather know-how for further activity related to AOI for quality control in the assembly of PCBs employed in the aerospace field.
Vulnerability assessment of forest protected areas to environmental hazards
Authors: Saeedianpour Farideh , Jafari Ali , Mafi-Gholami Davood , Ng Eric
Published: November 2023

The aim of the present study was to investigate the vulnerability of Helen Forest protected area to multiple environmental hazards including drought, evapotranspiration, flood, landslide and wildfire. To this end, in the first stage, field survey was conducted in random systematic sample plots and a map of the degree of sensitivity of the forest parts was prepared based on the canopy cover. Then, the risks of environmental hazards were mapped in the study area. Also, by implementing a closed Delphi method, the relative weight of each of environmental hazard was calculated. Finally, weighted standardized maps of environmental hazards and sensitivity map of the area were integrated and a classification map of the sensitivity was prepared in three categories: low, medium and high. The results of the relative weights​​ calculated for each of the hazards showed that drought has the highest relative weight (0.95), followed by fire (0.82). Also, the results showed that the risk of evapotranspiration with a relative weight of 0.32 has the last rank. The integration of weighted maps of environmental hazards and canopy cover showed that there is a range of spatial changes of vulnerability in different parts of the area. Based on the results, the degree of vulnerability of Helen protected area varied from 0.76 to 2.04. The classification of the sensitivity into three classes showed that the degree of vulnerability is higher in the eastern and western parts of the area (high vulnerability). On the other hand, the degree of vulnerability in the southern and northern parts is lower (low and medium vulnerability). Based on the results, 6701.8 ha (16.7%), 10806.3 ha (26.92%), and 11664.4 ha (29.06%) of Helen protected area are in low, medium and high level of vulnerability to multiple environmental hazards, respectively.
Prevalence of Anaemia and Associated Factors among Pregnant Women at Hargeisa Group Hospital, Somaliland
Authors: Abdilahi Mohamed Mussa , Jonah Kiruja M. , Farah Badra Osman , Abdirahman Farduus Mohamed , Mohamed Ahmed Ismail , Mohamed Jama , Ahmed Abdeta Muktar
Published: November 2023

Background
Anaemia remains a major global public health issue, affecting around 24.8% of the world’s population in both developing and developed countries. Pregnant women in developing countries are particularly susceptible, with 38.2% affected worldwide. Anaemia is also a major contributor to maternal mortality, with 510,000 maternal deaths globally, of which 20% occur in developing countries and are related to anaemia. Iron deficiency anaemia is the most prevalent form, impacting 1.3 to 2.2 billion individuals, with 50% being women of reproductive age.
Aim
This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of anaemia in pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at Hargeisa Group Hospital (HGH), Somaliland.
Methods
A cross-sectional study included 360 pregnant women, who sought ANC at HGH between July 15 and August 6, 2023. The study subjects were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and participants’ current medical records, including haemoglobin levels. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 20).
Results
The study revealed an overall prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women at 50.6% (95% CI: 45.40% − 55.72%). Anaemia severity was categorized as mild (33.0%), moderate (54.9%), and severe (12.1%). Factors statistically associated with anaemia included gestational age in the third trimester (AOR = 3.248, 95% CI: 1.491–7.074), lack of ANC visits (AOR = 6.828, 95% CI: 1.966–23.721), and absence of iron supplementation (AOR = 29.588, 95% CI: 2.922–299.713). Notably, a higher consumption of meat per week was associated with a reduced risk of anaemia (AOR = 0.198, 95% CI: 0.104–0.379).
Conclusion
The study underscores the severity of anaemia in pregnant women within the study area. Preventative measures, including patient education and supportive treatments, can mitigate factors contributing to anaemia during pregnancy. It is crucial to emphasize effective prenatal care, improve dietary practices, and promote the provision of iron supplements. Enhanced maternal education on anaemia during ANC visits has the potential to reduce anaemia prevalence and mitigate adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Hydrothermal synthesis of hydroxyapatite crystals with and without seed crystals and surfactant
Authors: Abdel-Aal E. A. , El-Sayed D. , Abdel-Ghafar H. M.
Published: November 2023

To the best of our knowledge for the first time the hydroxyapatite (HA) crystals were synthesized with different doses of HA seed crystals. HA crystals were synthesized from solutions containing the stoichiometric amounts of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate and calcium hydroxide. The various interactions of the NH4H 2PO4 concentrations (0.5–5.5 Molar), surfactant {amino tris (methylene phosphonic acid) [N(CH2PO3H2)3] (ATMP)} [ATMP] concentrations (0 - 100 ppm), and HA seed crystals doses (0 – 50%) were investigated and their effects on the HA mean diameter and hardness were studied using the Box-Behnken experimental statistical design. Results have shown that no correlations were obtained between the mean diameters of the HA crystals and the obtained HA hardness. HA synthesis in the absence of surfactant resulted in formation of HA rod-like and/or tabular crystals whereas agglomerated crystals were obtained with surfactant. The results indicate that with increasing the % of HA crystal seed dose, an increase in the HA mean diameter was obtained. Moreover, with increase of surfactant concentration, a high increase in HA hardness was achieved. HA crystal particle sizes were ranged from about 11 µm to 18 µm whereas the crystallite sizes were ranged from 22 nm to 46 nm.
Psychological health ramifications of sea-level rise in Bangladesh coastal populations
Authors: Kabir Sajjad , Newnham Elizabeth A. , Dewan Ashraf , Islam Md Monirul , Hamamura Takeshi
Published: November 2023

This study investigates relatively unexplored impact of sea-level rise (SLR) on the psychological health of coastal populations. A longitudinal research design was employed, involving 1,144 participants from coastal communities in Bangladesh with different degree of vulnerability. Data collection phases included before and after the monsoon season of 2021. This research demonstrates that psychological health, particularly distress, depression, anxiety, and stress deteriorate markedly during the post-monsoon months (October-November) in communities more vulnerable to SLR. This deterioration is linked to an increase in environmental stressors and a sense of resource loss with the latter mediating the relationship. Additionally, we found a decrease in resilience and an increase in COVID-19 anxiety. This research illuminated multifaceted relationships between SLR, environmental stress, resource loss, and psychological health, providing valuable insights to inform the development of tailored interventions and policies for supporting the wellbeing of coastal populations, affected by growing risk of SLR.
Delay in Clearance of Labeled Protons Post Acute Head Trauma Utilizing 3D ASL MRI (Arterial Spin Labeling) a Pilot Study
Authors: Joseph Charles , Kang Jubin , Grohol Bryce , Zivcevska Marija , Lencke Joshua , Rich Ethan , Arrasmith Connor , Dorman Ian , Clark Bradley , Love Kim , Ferry Ben , Rolfs Mark
Published: November 2023

This study correlated mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) cognitive changes with ASL-MRI glymphatic clearance rates (GCRs) and recovery with GCR improvement. . mTBI disrupts the blood brain barrier (BBB), reducing capillary mean transit time (cMTT) and GCRs. mTBI is clinically diagnosed utilizing history/examination findings with no physiologic biomarkers.
3D TGSE (turbo-gradient spin-echo) PASL (pulsed arterial spin-labeling) 3T MRI with 7 long TIs (inversion times) assessed the signal clearance of labeled protons 2800-4000 ms postlabeling in bifrontal, bitemporal, and biparietal regions within 7 days of mTBI and once clinically cleared to resume activities. The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool Version 5 (SKAT5) and Brief Oculomotor/Vestibular Assessment evaluated injured athletes’ cognitive function prior to MRIs.
The pilot study demonstrated significant GCRs improvement (95% [CI] -0.06 to -0.03 acute phase; to [CI] - recovery [CI] 0.0772 to -0.0497; P <0.001 in frontal lobes; and parietal lobes (95% [CI] -0.0584 to -0.0251 acute; [CI] -0.0727 to -0.0392 recovery; P = 0.024) in 9 mTBI athletes (8 female, 1 male). Six age/activity-matched controls (4 females, 2 males) were also compared.
mTBI disrupts the BBB, reducing GCR measured using the 3D ASL MRI technique. ASL MRI is a potential noninvasive biomarker of mTBI and subsequent recovery.
Morphometric Variations in Golden Jackal (Canis aureus) in Somogy County, Hungary
Authors: Csányi Erika , Sándor Gyula
Published: November 2023

The golden jackal (Canis aureus) is a canid species broadly distributed across Europe, including Hungary, where its population has increased exponentially in recent decades. Despite its expanding range and ecological relevance, comprehensive morphometric studies on the golden jackal in Hungary are lacking. Skull and body morphologies represent population/individual traits, genetic distances, environmental impacts, and growth variables, making morphological study essential. We conducted Hungary's first comprehensive body and skull morphometry examination of golden jackals.Between January 2021 and January 2023, we performed morphometric measurements on 754 golden jackals at two developmental stages, juveniles and adults, of different sexes (male and female) in Somogy County, Hungary. We found evidence of sexual dimorphism in all seven body measurements, which were greater in males than in females. We also demonstrated sexual dimorphism in most craniometric measurements (19/21), which were also larger in males. Most skulls differed significantly in size between the sexes and age groups, whereas postoperative breadth and foramen magnum height were not significantly different. Our results can contribute to a better understanding the ecology, behavior, and adaptation of golden jackals in the overpopulated Hungarian habitat, providing valuable insights for future conservation and management efforts."
Impact of Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin A Novel Sepsis Biomarker on PRISM III Score in Predicting Sepsis Severity And Mortality in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (Single Center Study)
Authors: Abdelrazic Marwa Ibrahem , Hakeem Gehan Lotfy Abdel , Mohamed Omima Mohamed , Hanna Mina Sobhy , Abuelela Ebtehal Saad
Published: November 2023

Background: Physiological, pathological, and metabolic problems brought on by infection are what define the syndrome of sepsis. Neutrophil granules generated at human sites of infection and inflammation were the source of the first discovery of neutrophil associated gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL).
Objectives: to evaluate the predictive usefulness of serum NGAL in children with sepsis in the pediatric intensive care unit and to compare it with the clinical score (PRISM III score) that is most frequently used to predict mortality in critically unwell children. ).
Patients and methods: In this study 75 patients were included according to the inclusion criteria and divided into three groups 25 each (sepsis, septic shock, and multi-organ failure), and serum NGAL level in those group was measured and compared to 25 healthy controls.
Results: Serum NGAL was significantly higher in both septic shock and multi-organ failure groups than in the control group. Positive bacterial cultures were linked to the severe degrees of sepsis which were associated with higher serum NGAL levels. Significant difference in serum NGAL level was found between survivors and non survivors, while no significant difference was found regarding PRISM III score.
Conclusion: Serum NGAL is significantly elevated in severe sepsis. Serum NGAL level was superior on the frequently used PRISM III score to predict mortality in critically ill patients with sepsis. So, serum NGAL can be used as a marker for severity and prognosis for mortality in septic pediatric patients.
Malnutrition in Children Under Five Years in a Squatter Settlement of Karachi; a Case-control Study
Authors: Ara Gati , Fawad Bina , Shabbir Shumaila
Published: November 2023

Background: Multidimensional factors such as socioeconomic or environmental factors influence malnutrition. Several studies have linked malnutrition strongly to poverty. Some international studies point to worse nutritional status of urban slum children compared to rural children. Not much data is available regarding the nutritional status of slums’ children in Karachi. This study aims to find characteristics of malnourished children in an urban squatter settlement of Karachi, Pakistan.
Methods: A Case- Control study was done in the primary healthcare centre of a squatter settlement of Karachi, Pakistan. All children under five years visiting the primary healthcare centre were recruited consecutively. Cases were defined as children with z scores < -2 SD of WHO reference measurements of WFA, HFA, WFH and OFC. Controls were similar age group and but had z scores between -2SD and +2SD. Face to face interviews were carried out with the mothers included information about socio-demographic, economic and environmental and child related characteristics. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were conducted. Crude and adjusted odds ratio were calculated with 95% confidence interval.
Results: A total of 280 participants including 140 cases and 140 controls participated in the study. A larger proportion originated from low household income. After adjusting for all confounders, childhood malnutrition was significantly associated with low education of father (aOR 4.86, 95% CI 2.23-10.60), monthly income less than 25,000 PKR a month (aOR 7.13, 95% CI 1.67-30.54), pour pit latrine type of toilet (aOR 4.41, 95% CI 2.67-7.3), less than six months exclusive breast feeding (aOR 3.578, CI (1.58-8.08), inappropriate weaning age (aOR3.71, 95% CI 1.53-9)
Conclusion: Malnutrition in under five children of the community is associated with low family income, low paternal education, and poor toilet facilities as well as inappropriate breast feeding and weaning practices. Implementation of poverty reduction programmes and sanitation provision at affordable rates is needed. A community-based breast feeding and weaning education intervention is urgently needed to efficiently improve child nutritional status.
Management of MPS-I using ERT: The Egyptian experience
Authors: Fateen Ekram , Sahrigy Sally A. F. El , Ibrahim Mona , elhossini rasha , Ahmed Hoda H. , Ismaeel Asmaa , Radwan Amira , Salama Iman Ibrahim , ElBaky Abeer M. NourElDin Abd , Ezzeldin Nada , Rahman Azza M.O. Abdel , Aglan Mona
Published: November 2023

Background Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is an autosomal recessive multisystem lysosomal storage disorder. Methods Herein, we report the Egyptian experience of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) for MPS type I patients and the faced challenges. Thirty-eight MPS-I patients were examined at presentation and throughout ERT to evaluate its effect on different body systems. Clinical and radiological examination of the patients confirmed the characteristic manifestations. Results Follow up after one year of ERT initiation revealed improvement of respiratory function tests, significant decrease in the size of liver and spleen, a stationary course of cardiac problems and a decrease of total urinary glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) levels. We experienced the problems of late presentation, time consuming procedures to get approval for ERT and receiving the treatment thus, leading to delayed ERT initiation in addition to irregular interrupted ERT courses due to delay in treatment renewal and difficulties in patient’s transportation from far governorates. Laronidase was generally well tolerated apart from mild infusion-related adverse reactions. Conclusion ERT is an effective treatment in the management of MPS-I patients. Early diagnosis, less complicated process for treatment approval, effecient multidisciplinary centers that are aware of the disease manifestations and able to provide ERT are recommended.
Psychological Mechanisms of Revenge and Revenge Ideations in Family Homicide: Results from Qualitative Research of Forensic Assessment Reports
Authors: Grobbink Leonie H. , Huijbregts Klaas M. L. , Draisma S. , Derksen Jan J.L. , Westerhof Gerben J.
Published: November 2023

Our aim was to find out which social and psychological factors characterize forensic psychiatric patients who have committed family homicide with revenge as a reason as compared to subjects who committed family homicide with other motives. Qualitative research was carried out on the basis of pre-trial forensic assessment reports of existing cases (N = 20), divided between Revenge and No-Revenge cases. In case of revenge, violence was almost always a sort of settling of an interpersonal score. Psychotic symptomatology was absent in the Revenge cases, personality problems (particularly borderline and narcissistic traits) were common. Demoralization because of a decline of well-being seems to be an important factor pushing some persons with such vulnerabilities over the edge. Our expectation is that, at least in a certain proportion of (non-psychotic) patients, there will be more brooding on revenge than the psychotherapist suspects.
SARS-CoV-2 infection status in corneal preservation solution and COVID-19 prevalence after corneal transplantation
Authors: Wasai Yuki , Yamada Naoyuki , Ariyoshi Nobuaki , Haraguchi Aiko , Funatsu Masahiko , Mikuni Masanori , Nakamura Riku , Sakuma Ayano , Higashijima Fumiaki , Iwamoto Nanako , Teranishi Shinichiro , Nishioka Mitsuaki , Yamasaki Takahiro , Kimura Kazuhiro
Published: November 2023

The potential risks associated with organs from COVID-19-infected donors were unclear. To determine the SARS-CoV-2 infection status of corneas transplanted during the COVID-19 pandemic, we performed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the corneal preservation solution that was used for corneal transplantation. We also examined the postoperative health status of the recipients. This study included 144 transplants in 143 eyes. Ninety-nine eyes of imported corneas and 10 of the 14 corneas donated in the prefecture were PCR tested at our hospital, and all were SARS-CoV-2 negative. All corneal transplants were performed after confirming their SARS-CoV-2 negativity by a PCR using a corneal preservation solution at our hospital or a nasopharyngeal swab at a previous facility. Despite postoperative steroid administration, no patient developed COVID-19 infection until discharge. Hence, if the donor's nasopharyngeal swab test is SARS-CoV-2 negative, COVID-19 infection in the recipient due to corneal transplantation may be prevented. Since corneal transplant recipients are susceptible to infection due to prolonged steroid administration and are at high risk for severe diseases if infection occurs, SARS-CoV-2 detection testing using nasopharyngeal swabs in donors should be performed.
Caputo-hadamard Fractional Differential Equations: Integral Boundary Condition System
Authors: MURAD SHAYMA A. , RAFEEQ AVA SH. , IBRAHIM RABHA W. , Ahmad Hijaz , Almohsen Bandar
Published: November 2023

The solvability of a fractional differential equation depends on various factors such as the type of equation, the order of the fractional derivative, the domain and boundary conditions, and the properties of the solution sought. In this paper, The solution of a system of Caputo-Hadamard fractional differential equations (SCH) with integral boundary condition is investigated. The existence theorem of solutions is established by means of the Krasnoselskii and Schaefer’s fixed point theorem. Further, the uniqueness result is presented which is based on Banach’s contraction principle. Finally, the stability of the given system in Ulam-Hyers sense is applied. Examples are considered for the verification of theoretical works.
Effects of Light Treatments on Callus Induction and Morphogenesis in Caladium bicolor
Authors: Chen Mengyi , Xie Jiangjiang , Guan Jinyan , Chen Shuangyan , Huang Haiying , Luo Qingwen , Wang Qihua
Published: November 2023

Caladium bicoloris widely used as an ornamental plant outdoors and indoors due to its rich colors, diverse combinations, and strange patterns. In the commercial production ofCaladium bicolor, tissue culture technology can quickly reproduce seedlings with consistent genetic properties. In practice, there are still aspects that can be improved in terms of energy dissipation and ornamental value when using fluorescent lamps. In this experiment, the light intensity had no significant effect on the induction of callus and the germination rate, but from the number of buds per explant increased. Different light waves affect the occurrence of seedlings ofCaladium bicolor. Among them, a single light source, LED-Red, is not conducive to callus differentiation, plant height, and carotenoid accumulation compared to other treatments; LED-Blue is beneficial for the formation of relative anthocyanin content and plant height.LED-White is beneficial for leaf size. Fluorescence is not conducive to increasing the total number of seedlings, which is important for production. Compared with fluorescence, the transplanting rate of LED-Blue increased by 94.92%. The results of this experiment suggest that LED light can replace florescent lamps in tissue culture for achieving low energy consumption and high efficiency.
Structure prediction of protein-ligand complexes from sequence information with Umol
Authors: Bryant Patrick , Kelkar Atharva , Guljas Andrea , Clementi Cecilia , Noé Frank
Published: November 2023

Protein-ligand docking is an established tool in drug discovery and development to narrow down potential therapeutics for experimental testing. However, a high-quality protein structure is required and often the protein is treated as fully or partially rigid. Here we develop an AI system that can predict the fully flexible all-atom structure of protein-ligand complexes directly, given a multiple sequence alignment representation of the protein, protein pocket information and a SMILES string representing the ligand. At a high accuracy threshold, unseen protein-ligand complexes can be predicted more accurately than for RoseTTAFold-AA, and at medium accuracy even classical docking methods that use known protein structures as input are surpassed. The high accuracy presented here suggests that the goal of AI-based drug discovery is one step closer, but there is still a way to go to fully grasp the complexity of protein-ligand interactions. Umol is available at: https://github.com/patrickbryant1/Umol
A Novel Nature-Inspired Magnetic Hydrogel Coated with Graphene Oxide for the Efficient-Sustained Release of Levodopa
Authors: K Athira , Kumar B Siva , Reddy S Giridhar , K Prashanthi
Published: November 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurological condition characterized by the destruction of neurons in the central nervous system. Levodopa, an amino acid that is a precursor to dopamine, is prescribed as a treatment for PD. In this paper, the magnetic hydrogel was prepared using sodium alginate (SAl) and lignosulphonic acid (LSA) as green polymers, crosslinked with Ba2+ ions, and coated with Fe3O4-GO (Graphene Oxide) nanoparticles, which could increase the bioavailability of levodopa at the target site (brain) and achieve a better stimulus responsive targeted therapeutic effect. The synthesized hydrogel was characterized, and the multiple variants were evaluated for their in-vitro drug release. The highest drug loading efficiency of 69.67% was observed in the SAl-LSA-GO-LD (LD 3) film leading to the best-sustained release of levodopa as expected, with a 24% release followed by other variants. Combining sodium alginate (SAl) and lignosulphonic acid (LSA) hydrogel coated with Fe3O4 and graphene oxide nanoparticles is a novel, efficient methodology for the controlled release of levodopa.
Combinatorial cooperativity can facilitate epithelial-mesenchymal transition in a miR200-Zeb transcriptional network
Authors: Rashid Mubasher , Devi Brasanna M , Banerjee Malay
Published: November 2023

Carcinomas often utilize epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) programs for cancer progression and metastasis. Numerous studies report SNAIL-induced miR200/Zeb feedback circuit as crucial in regulating EMT by placing cancer cells to at least three (epithelial (E), hybrid (h-E/M), mesenchymal (M)) phenotypic states along the E-M phenotypic spectrum. However, a coherent molecular-level understanding of how such a tiny circuit controls carcinoma cell entrance into and residence in various states is lacking. Here, we use molecular binding data and mathematical modeling to report that miR200/Zeb circuit can essentially utilize combinatorial cooperativity to control E-M phenotypic plasticity. We identify minimal combinatorial cooperativities that give rise to E, h-E/M, and M phenotypes. We show that disrupting a specific number of miR200 binding sites on Zeb as well as Zeb binding sites on miR200 can have phenotypic consequences – the circuit can dynamically switch between two (E, M) and three (E, h-E/M, M) phenotypes. Further, we report that in both SNAIL-induced and SNAIL knock-out miR200/Zeb circuits, cooperative transcriptional feedback on Zeb as well as Zeb translational inhibition due to miR200 are essential for the occurrence of intermediate h-E/M phenotype. Finally, we demonstrate that SNAIL can be dispensable for EMT, and in the absence of SNAIL, the transcriptional feedback can control cell state transition from E to h-E/M, to M state. Our results thus highlight molecular-level regulation of EMT in miR200/Zeb circuit and we expect these findings to be crucial to future efforts aiming to prevent EMT-facilitated dissemination of carcinomas.
Anti-NMDAR encephalitis with MOGAD overlap syndrome, isolated epilepsy, and unilateral thalamus changes: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhong Rimei , Chen Xiongjin , Liao Feng , Lin Zhijun , Zhang Zhijian , Chen Yusen , Cui Lili
Published: November 2023

Background
Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune brain disease mediated by antibodies and characterized by psychiatric symptoms, seizures, behavioral abnormalities, dyskinesia, and cognitive impairment. Recently, the co-existence of anti-NMDAR IgG and MOG IgG has been reported, and anti-NMDAR encephalitis has been found to occur concurrently or successively with demyelinating disease. With gradually increasing reports, the coexistence of anti-NMDAR-IgG and MOG-IgG has been noticed by scholars, and the combination of MOG antibody disease with anti-NMDAR encephalitis is called MOG antibody disease and anti-NMDAR encephalitis overlap syndrome (MNOS). MNOS is clinically rare, and due to its atypical clinical characteristics and its imaging manifestations, the disease is poorly understood, making clinical diagnosis difficult. Seizures are one of the most common atypical symptoms, and cases of mono antibody disease with bilateral thalamus symmetric involvement have also been reported, among which isolated seizures and MNOS cases of unilateral thalamus involvement have not been reported in the literature.
Case presentation:
A 29-year man was admitted to our hospital with isolated seizures, who had unilateral thalamic involvement and showed anti-NMDAR-IgG and MOG-IgG positivity in both cerebrospinal fluid and serum. His symptoms responded to immunotherapy and antiepileptic drugs with a good prognosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of a double antibody-positive case with isolated seizures and unilateral thalamic involvement.
Conclusions
Our case is a reminder that we clinicians should think of MNOS when patients present with atypical clinical manifestations like epilepsy and test both serum and cerebrospinal fluid for multiple associated autoantibodies (including MOG antibodies) and viruses to avoid misdiagnosis, missed diagnosis, and impact on prognosis. In addition, it enriches the disease spectrum of MNOS syndrome.
Programmable laser curing of carbon fiber laminate structures
Authors: McClintock Hayley , Deng Yusong , Sheehan Michael , Lipson Hod
Published: November 2023

Carbon fiber composites have revolutionized various industries due to their exceptional mechanical properties and lightweight nature. However, the conventional curing processes used in their manufacturing are often time-consuming and energy-intensive. In this study, we propose an alternative approach utilizing blue and red lasers for the selective curing of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates, enabling the development of deployable structures. Laser curing offers several advantages over traditional methods, including precise control over curing parameters, rapid heating and cooling rates, and localized energy delivery. This fabrication method is ideal for applications in deployable design. Deployable structures have become increasingly popular due to their ease of assembly and compact storage capabilities. They are often made from lightweight and durable materials and are designed to be assembled quickly with minimal tools and expertise required. Origami principles have been used to design deployable structures that can be collapsed and deployed along the same path, and pop-up design techniques have also been used to create articulated three-dimensional structures that can be fabricated starting from a flattened state. In this context, two laser fabrication methods are presented and a deployable, pop-up carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) lattice structure is developed, as well as a ruled surface structure. For the first strategy,a blue laser is used to selectively cure parts of the flattened CFRP design, creating hinges that allow the entire structure to be deployed in a pop-up manner. In the second strategy, a red laser is used to ablate epoxy from the prepreg carbon fiber, leaving areas that are more flexible than the surrounding areas once the entire structure is cured. This design and fabrication method yields a deployable structure with many potential applications in aerospace fields.
Schwann cell-specific ablation of Beclin 1 impairs peripheral myelination and leads to a progressive motor and sensory neuropathy
Authors: Gambarotto Lisa , Bresolin Silvia , Persano Luca , D’Amore Rachele , Ronchi Giulia , Zen Federica , Muratori Luisa , Russo Loris , Cani Alice , Braghetta Paola , Bizzotto Dario , Cescon Matilde
Published: November 2023

The core component of the class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase complex, Beclin 1, takes part in different protein networks, thus switching its role from inducing autophagy to regulating autophagosomal maturation and endosomal trafficking. While assessed in neurons, astrocytes and microglia, its role was far less investigated in myelinating glia, including Schwann cells (SCs), responsible for peripheral nerve myelination. Remarkably, the dysregulation in endosomal trafficking is emerging as a pathophysiological mechanism underlying peripheral neuropathies, such as demyelinating Charcot-Marie-Tooth diseases.
By knocking out Beclin 1 in SCs we here generated a novel mouse model (Becn1 cKO), developing a severe and progressive neuropathy, accompanied by involuntary tremors, body weight loss and premature death. Ultrastructural analysis revealed abated myelination and SCs displaying enlarged cytoplasm with progressive accumulation of intracellular vesicles. Transcriptomic and histological analysis from sciatic nerves of 10-day and 2-month-old mice revealed pro-mitotic gene deregulation and increased SCs proliferation at both stages with axonal loss and increased immune infiltration in adults, well reflecting the progressive motor and sensory functional impairment that characterizes Becn1 cKO mice, compared to controls. Our study establishes a further step in understanding key mechanisms in SC development and points to Beclin 1 and its regulated pathways as targets for demyelinating CMT forms.
Detecting mobile phone usage while driving a vehicle using AI and AR
Authors: Kuruva Keshav Prasad
Published: November 2023

The rise in catastrophic road mishaps is significantly linked to drivers' increasingly prevalent use of mobile phones for various activities, including texting, communicating, and using social platforms. Distracted driving, fueled by such indiscriminate usage patterns, has witnessed an alarming upsurge over time - from a mere 1.5% prevalence in 2012, rocketing sharply towards a worrying rate upwards to 3.4%, as noted during recent observations taken in 2021. In response to this increasingly concerning issue plaguing modern-day transportation safety protocols, this thesis argues favorably for incorporating Augmented Reality systems programmed expertly as recognition tools with capabilities powerful enough not just to detect real-time mobile phone use but also possess the proficiency necessary for timely issuance of alerts or warnings suggesting distraction aims underway throughout crucial journey phases constituting each drive's entirety.
Infection of Egyptian domestic rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus, with Cysticercus pisiformis (Cestoda: Taeniidae): morphological, molecular, and histopathological diagnostic tools
Authors: Hussein Nermean Moamen , Rabie Soheir A. H. , Abuelwafa Wafaa A. , Eldin Mouchira M. Mohi
Published: November 2023

Cysticercosis raises the alarm for domestic rabbits since it has a significant impact on their health, productivity, and nutritional value. In this study, several white to cream-colored cysts were detected in the mesentery of the stomach and intestine, as well as embedded in the liver of domestic rabbits collected from Qena Governorate, Egypt. Our morphological and molecular analyses of these cysts reveal that they are Cysticercus pisiformis, the larval stage of Taenia pisiformis. Gross and histopathological investigations of infected organs were documented. To our knowledge, this is the first geographical report on cysticercus pisiformis in domestic rabbits in Qena Governorate, using current morphological, molecular, and histopathological methodologies that provide critical data for developing diagnostic targets for C. pisiformis.
Azacitidine and gemtuzumab ozogamicin as post-transplant maintenance therapy for high-risk hematologic malignancies
Authors: Najima Yuho , Kaito Satoshi , Kishida Yuya , Nagata Akihito , Konishi Tatsuya , Yamada Yuta , Kurosawa Shuhei , Yoshifuji Kota , Shirane Shuichi , Shingai Naoki , Toya Takashi , Shimizu Hiroaki , Haraguchi Kyoko , Kobayashi Takeshi , Okuyama Yoshiki , Doki Noriko
Published: November 2023

Disease recurrence remains the principal cause of treatment failure after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Post-transplant maintenance therapy with azacitidine (AZA) is promising to prevent relapse but the outcomes are unsatisfactory in patients at high risk of recurrence. Herein, we evaluated the outcome in patients who received AZA and gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO), anti-CD33 antibody-calicheamicin conjugate, as post-transplant maintenance therapy. Twenty-eight patients with high-risk hematologic malignancies harboring CD33-positive leukemic blasts received the maintenance therapy. AZA (30 mg/m2) was administered for 7 days, followed by GO (3 mg/m2) on day 8. The maximum number of cycles was 4. At transplant, 21 patients (75.0%) had active disease. Their 2-year overall survival, disease-free survival, relapse, and non-relapse mortality rates were 53.6%, 39.3%, 50.0%, and 10.7%, respectively. Of these patients, those with minimal residual disease at the start of maintenance therapy (n = 9) had a higher recurrence rate (66.7% vs. 42.1% at 2 years, P = 0.069) and shorter disease-free survival (11.1% vs. 52.6% at 2 years, P = 0.003). Post-transplant maintenance therapy with AZA and GO was generally tolerable but more than half of the patients eventually relapsed. Further improvements are needed to prevent relapse after transplantation in patients with high-risk hematologic malignancies.
Encapsulation and release of calcein from Herceptin- conjugated eLiposomes
Authors: Zafar Mah Noor , Pitt William G. , Husseini Ghaleb
Published: November 2023

Achieving an optimal therapeutic level is crucial in effectively eradicating cancer cells during treatment. However, conventional chemotherapy-associated systemic administration of anticancer agents leads to many side effects. To achieve the desired control over the target site, active targeting of HER2-positive breast cancer cells can be achieved by conjugating liposomal vesicles with Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 (HER2) and inducing release of the encapsulated drug using ultrasound. To further enhance the delivery efficiency, nanoemulsion droplets exhibiting responsiveness to low-frequency ultrasound are encapsulated within these lipid vesicles. In this study, we prepared four different liposomal formulations, namely pegylated liposomes, emulsion liposomes (eLiposomes), HER-conjugated liposomes, and HER-conjugated eLiposomes, each loaded with calcein and subjected to a thorough characterization process. Their sizes, phospholipid concentration, and amount of antibody conjugation were compared and analyzed. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy was used to confirm the encapsulation of nanoemulsion droplets within the liposomes. The drug-releasing performance of Herceptin-conjugated eLiposomes was found to surpass that of other liposomal formulations with a notably higher calcein release and established it as a highly effective nanocarrier. The study showcases the efficacy of calcein-loaded and Herceptin-conjugated eLiposomes, which demonstrate rapid and efficient drug release among other liposomal formulations when subjected to ultrasound. This discovery paves the way for a more targeted, efficient, and humane approach to cancer therapy.
Analytical expression of displacement of circular double tunnels in transversely isotropic rock mass in unstable rock zone of southwest mountainous area
Authors: Wei Linyang , Zhang Zhizeng
Published: November 2023

Due to the instability of the underground rock structure in the southwest mountain area, the influence of different pore shapes on the rock mechanics performance and fracture characteristics under uniaxial compression changes. The analysis and research on the displacement of double circular tunnels in layered rock mass lay an essential foundation for back-analyzing the displacement of anisotropic double caverns. Researchers can derive the displacement analytical solution for two circular tunnels in a transverse isotropy rock mass using the complex function and Schwarz alternating methods. This analytic solution can simplify the analytical solution of displacement within an isotropic rock mass and the displacement analytical solution for a single circular tunnel in a transversely isotropy rock mass. The solution demonstrates that even when the tunnel cross-section is presumed to be parallel to the isotropic plane during derivation, the displacement of the surrounding rock is influenced by the elastic modulus and the Poisson ratio in both the isotropic plane and the plane perpendicular to it. Hence, in the displacement back-analysis of two tunnels in transversely isotropic rock mass viewed in cross-section, it is necessary to determine six parameters that meet discernible conditions and use the corresponding sensitivity coefficients to invert the uniqueness of the parameters. By comparing the analytic solution with the numerical solution, it was found that the trends of both solutions were mainly consistent. Moreover, the error between the analytic and numerical solutions was relatively small within the 90 to 105 degrees data, which indicates that the analytical solution can effectively reflect the actual deformation pattern of circular tunnels. This finding is pivotal for back analysis of tunnel excavation displacement in layered rock masses.
Exploring the Relationship between Strain Change in Fengjie Area of the Three Gorges Reservoir and Large Earthquakes on the Edge of the Sichuan Basin
Authors: Tao Chen , Lei Dong
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the relationship between near-surface crustal strain and large earthquakes by utilizing continuous observation data from a borehole strain instrument in Fengjie-Hongtu, located in the Three Gorges Reservoir area. The observation data was subjected to normalized processing and analysis, leading to the identification of three distinct and morphologically similar surface strain trend anomalies. These anomalies coincided with earthquakes of magnitude 6 or higher on the edge of the Sichuan Basin. In order to explore the reasons behind the anomalous changes in strain trends, geological research was combined with findings from the three earthquakes. The research results suggest that the surface strain trend anomalies observed in the Fengjie borehole strain may indicate alterations in the state of stress and strain transmission within the regional stress field. These three anomalies are preliminarily determined to be precursory anomalies. This finding is important for further understanding the mechanism of earthquake generation and early warning.