bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ERRORS 8th GRADE STUDENTS SOLVE STATISTICAL LITERACY: NEWMAN PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Maghfiroh Naidatul , Prayitno Lydia Lia
Published: September 2023

Statistical literacy is important for students because students will be exposed to their roles as producers and consumers of data. This study describes the errors of 8th-grade students in solving statistical literacy problems based on Newman's perspective. Two students of 8th-grade students at SMPN 6 Bondowoso who made the most errors were subjects in this study. This is a qualitative descriptive study through literacy problems, documentation, and interviews. The data were analyzed based on Newman's perspective and the guidelines for answering statistical literacy questions. The results showed that there were four errors in working on statistical literacy problems were (1) misunderstanding the problem, did not write down the information in the problems; (2) transformation error, the subject incorrectly the arithmetic operation used; (3) process skill error, the subject didn’t the calculation correctly. In addition, in this error the subject did not properly carry out the settlement procedure; and (4) errors in writing the final answer, the subject incorrectly write the final answer. The cause the subject makes errors is because they are not careful and do not understand the questions given. For this reason, teachers need to familiarize their students with solving statistical literacy problems. In addition, for students who have difficulty solving literacy problems, the teacher can provide scaffolding.
STUDENTS’ IMPROVED UNDERSTANDING OF LIMIT TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION JIGSAW LEARNING
Authors: Sumianto Dadang
Published: September 2023

This is a classroom action research is to achieve student success in learning mathematics, especially how to complete Trigonometry Function Limits by applying the Jigsaw learning model. The subjects in this study were students of class XII IPA 1 SMAN 1 Dawarblandong Mojokerto Regency in the 2022/2023 school year with a total of 36 students. The instruments in this study used syllabus, lesson plans, worksheets, observation sheets, and evaluation question sheets. The data analysis method uses 2 cycles with each cycle consisting of 5 stages namely preparation (planning), implementation (action), observation (observation), evaluation (evaluation), and reflection (reflection). The results showed that the jigsaw cooperative learning model had a positive impact on improving student achievement which was marked by an increase in student mastery in each cycle, namely cycle I 63.88% and cycle II 94.44%. The application of the Jigsaw cooperative learning method has a positive effect, namely increasing student learning motivation as indicated by the results of the second cycle test which are better than the first cycle test results and the results of observations of teachers and students.
DEVELOPMENT OF INTEGRATED DISCRETE MATHEMATICS TEACHINGBOOK WITH OPS TRANSFORMATION
Authors: Lazwardi Ahmad , Mayada Mayada
Published: September 2023

The Ops Transformation has been analytically proven to be able to solve discrete math problems related to ordinary generating functions. The purpose of this research is to develop a discrete mathematics textbook which has included ops transformation theory as one of its chapters. The research method used is the 4D model research and development method. The results of expert validation on discrete mathematics textbooks equipped with the Ops transformation show that the books are very valid.
"Reliquias de los Valientes Godos": mito neogótico y religión en el siglo de Oro
Authors: Sáez Adrián J.
Published: September 2023

A partir de algunas reflexiones sobre la dimensión religiosa del mito neogótico, en este trabajo se examina la presencia de santos y sus reliquias en la Corónica general de España (1574, 1575 y 1584) de Ambrosio de Morales.
Rapid, high-titer biosynthesis of melanin using the marine bacterium Vibrio natriegens
Authors: Smith Aaron D. , Tschirhart Tanya , Compton Jaimee , Hennessa Tiffany M. , VanArsdale Eric , Wang Zheng
Published: September 2023

Melanin is one of the most abundant natural biomolecules on Earth. These macromolecular biopolymers display several unique physical and chemical properties and have garnered interest as biomaterials for various commercial and industrial applications. To this end, extensive research has gone into refining methods for the synthesis and extraction of melanin from natural and recombinant sources. In this study, we developed and refined a procedure using a recombinant microbial system for the biosynthesis of melanin using the tyrosinase enzyme Tyr1 and tyrosine as a substrate. Using the emergent microbial chassis organisms Vibrio natriegens, we achieved maximal yields of 7.57 g/L, and one of the highest reported volumetric productivities of 473 mg L−1 h−1 with 100% conversion rates in an optimized, minimally defined medium. Additionally, we identified and investigated the use of a native copper responsive promoter in V. natriegens for stringent regulation of heterologous protein expression as a cost effective alternative to traditional IPTG-based induction. This research represents a promising advancement towards a green, rapid, and economical alternative for the biomanufacture of melanin.
Construction of micro-nano robots: living cells and functionalized biological cell membranes
Authors: Niu Jiawen , Liu Chenlu , Yang Xiaopeng , Liang Wenlong , Wang Yufu
Published: September 2023

Micro-nano robots have emerged as a promising research field with vast potential applications in biomedicine. The motor is the key component of micro-nano robot research, and the design of the motor is crucial. Among the most commonly used motors are those derived from living cells such as bacteria with flagella, sperm, and algal cells. Additionally, scientists have developed numerous self-adaptive biomimetic motors with biological functions, primarily cell membrane functionalized micromotors. This novel type of motor exhibits remarkable performance in complex media. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure and performance of micro-nano robots that utilize living cells and functionalized biological cell membranes. We also discuss potential practical applications of these mirco-nano robots as well as potential challenges that may arise in future development.
Metabolic syndrome and its associated factors among type 2 diabetic patients in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia Region
Authors: Shita Abel , Teshome Habtamu , Ayalew Mulugeta , Yesuf Wudu , Getachew Dawit
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are prone to modifiable and non-modifiable complications, which can be grouped under metabolic syndrome (MetS). Evaluating MetS in patients with diabetes is critical for the prevention of cardiovascular disease among patients with DM. In Ethiopia, more specifically in the southwest of Ethiopia, these kinds of information are lacking. Thus, this study estimated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among type 2 diabetic patients and its associated factors.

Methods

A health facility-based cross-sectional study was done from May 1 to 30, 2021. The data were collected using structured questionnaires, laboratory investigations, and anthropometric measurements. MetS was diagnosed using the modified International Diabetic Federation guidelines (IDF) and the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III) criteria. The data was entered into Epidata and analyzed using SPSS software. Bivariable and multiple variable logistic regression was done to identify the factors associated with MetS. In multiple-variable logistic regression analysis, variables that have a p-value ≤ 0.05 were declared to have statistical significance.

Result

The majority (31.4%) of study participants were within the age group of 41-50 years and the mean ± SD of age is 51.75 ± 11.66, and 54.9% of them were men. In this study, the prevalence of MetS was 31.4% and 41.2% using the IDF and NCEP-ATP III criteria, respectively. Being a woman (AOR = 11.33, 95% CI; 3.73, 34.34; p < 0.001), having a lower level of education (AOR=7.10, 95% CI; 1.88, 26.70; p <0.004), and performing high physical activities (AOR=0.08, 95%CI; 0.01, 0.40; p <0.002) were significantly associated with MetS.

Conclusion

According to this study, the magnitude of Metabolic Syndrome in Mizan-Teppi University Teaching Hospital was 31.4% and 41.2% using IDF and NCEP-ATP III criteria, respectively. Being a woman and having a lower level of education increased the odds of MetS among patients with DM while performing high physical activities decreased the odds of MetS among patients with DM. Therefore, to prevent metabolic syndrome among type 2 DM patients in the study area, it is crucial to focus on women and individuals who have not had access to adequate education. One way to do this is by prioritizing interventions that involve physical activity.
Microbiome profile and calprotectin levels as markers of risk of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection
Authors: Vázquez-Cuesta Silvia , Lozano García Nuria , Fernández Ana I. , Olmedo María , Kestler Martha , Alcalá Luis , Marín Mercedes , Bermejo Javier , Díaz Francisco Fernández-Avilés , Muñoz Patricia , Bouza Emilio , Reigadas Elena
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is the main cause of nosocomial diarrhoea in developed countries. Recurrent CDI (R-CDI), which affects 20%-30% of patients and significantly increases hospital stay and associated costs, is a key challenge. The main objective of this study was to explore the role of the microbiome and calprotectin levels as predictive biomarkers of R-CDI.

Methods

We prospectively (2019-2021) included patients with a primary episode of CDI. Clinical data and faecal samples were collected. The microbiome was analysed by sequencing the hypervariable V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene on an Illumina Miseq platform.

Results

We enrolled 200 patients with primary CDI, of whom 54 developed R-CDI and 146 did not. We analysed 200 primary samples and found that Fusobacterium increased in abundance, while Collinsella, Senegalimassilia, Prevotella and Ruminococcus decreased in patients with recurrent versus non-recurrent disease. Elevated calprotectin levels correlated significantly with R-CDI (p=0.01). We built a risk index for R-CDI, including as prognostic factors age, sex, immunosuppression, toxin B amplification cycle, creatinine levels and faecal calprotectin levels (overall accuracy of 79%).

Discussion

Calprotectin levels and abundance of microbial genera such as Fusobacterium and Prevotella in primary episodes could be useful as early markers of R-CDI. We propose a readily available model for prediction of R-CDI that can be applied at the initial CDI episode. The use of this tool could help to better tailor treatments according to the risk of R-CDI.
Comparative analysis of bile metabolic profile in patients with biliary obstruction complicated by Clonorchis sinensis infection
Authors: Zhang Xueli , Han Su , Jiang Xu , Duan Shanshan , Gao Yannan , Ding Jian , Li Xiang , Sun Beibei , Hu Xinyi , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhang Weizhe
Published: September 2023

Background

Clonorchiasis is an important foodborne parasitic disease. However, eggs of Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) cannot be detected in feces during biliary obstruction. Moreover, many diseases can cause biliary obstruction, such as gallstones, adenocarcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma and Ascaris lumbricoides infection. Therefore, it is of great significance to distinguish between patients of biliary obstruction and biliary obstruction with C. sinensis infection.

Methods

A total of 48 biliary obstruction patients were enrolled, including 23 infected with C. sinensis (C. sinensis) (OB+C.s) and 25 non-infected subjects (OB). The bile samples were collected by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF MS). Additionally, multivariate statistical analysis methods were employed to identify differential metabolites. Next, bile amino acid levels were determined by targeted metabolomics analysis.

Result

A total of 146 and 132 significant metabolites were identified in electrospray ionization (ESI)+ and ESI− modes, respectively. The levels of amino acids (asparagine, glutamate, ornithine) and polyamines (spermidine and spermine) were significantly changed. Targeted analysis showed that the levels of amino acids (such as L-arginine, L-glutamine, L-lysine, L-propionic, and L-tyrosine) were lower in OB+C.s patients compared to those in OB patients. Marked metabolic pathways were involved in “Glutathione metabolism”, “Caffeine metabolism”, “Alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism”, “Arginine and proline metabolism”, “Purine metabolism”, “Beta-Alanine metabolism”, and “D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism”.

Conclusion

These results show that there were significant differences between OB+C.s and OB patients, especially in amino acids. The metabolic signature and perturbations in metabolic pathways may help to better distinguish OB+C.s and OB patients.
BK polyomavirus: latency, reactivation, diseases and tumorigenesis
Authors: Zhou Xianfeng , Zhu Chunlong , Li Hui
Published: September 2023

The identification of the first human polyomavirus BK (BKV) has been over half century, The previous epidemiological and phylogenetic studies suggest that BKV prevailed and co-evolved with humans, leading to high seroprevalence all over the world. In general, BKV stays latent and symptomless reactivation in healthy individuals. BKV has been mainly interlinked with BKV-associated nephropathy (BKVAN) in kidney-transplant recipients and hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients (HSCTRs). However, the mechanisms underlying BKV latency and reactivation are not fully understood and lack of extensive debate. As Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) was identified as a pathogenic agent of malignant cutaneous cancer Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) since 2008, linking BKV to tumorigenesis of urologic tumors raised concerns in the scientific community. In this review, we mainly focus on advances of mechanisms of BKV latency and reactivation, and BKV-associated diseases or tumorigenesis with systematical review of formerly published papers following the PRISMA guidelines. The potential tumorigenesis of BKV in two major types of cancers, head and neck cancer and urologic cancer, was systematically updated and discussed in depth. Besides, BKV may also play an infectious role contributing to HIV-associated salivary gland disease (HIVSGD) presentation. As more evidence indicates the key role of BKV in potential tumorigenesis, it is important to pay more attention on its etiology and pathogenicity in vitro and in vivo.
High-resolution modeling of meander neck cutoffs: laboratory and field scales
Authors: Li Zhi , Mendoza Alejandro , Abad Jorge D. , Endreny Theodore A. , Han Bangshuai , Carrisoza Eliseo , Dominguez Ramon
Published: September 2023

Meandering rivers are distinguished by their characteristic sinuosity, which is subject to modulation through channel cutoff, resulting in the formation of oxbow lakes within the abandoned meander loops. Throughout the evolutionary course of a river, these cutoffs establish a connection between the channel and floodplain systems, both crucial to maintaining the dynamic equilibrium of the river system. Nonetheless, the interactive dynamic between the channel and floodplain and its influence on the transient behavior of the channel’s morphodynamics during a cutoff event are frequently reduced to simplistic representations in computational models. This study introduces a comprehensive numerical model that elucidates the adaptive processes of bed and planform during and subsequent to the inception of cutoff and oxbow lakes. The model is assessed through its application to a laboratory scale cutoff, before being employed to a real-world meandering river, specifically the Ucayali River in Peru, in order to gain understanding into channel development and the intricate patterns of planform dynamics following cutoff events. The model is able to capture the main modes of planform migration, translation and expansion for the case of the bend in the Ucayali River. During the neck cutoff, the model simulates the progression of erosional and depositional waves traveling in upstream and downstream directions respectively, underscoring the importance of incorporating both hydrodynamic and morphodynamic factors in characterizing the river dynamics associated with meander cutoffs.
The classical Cuevas River section revisited: an update to the style and timing of deformation of the Aconcagua region based on new geological, structural and geochronological data (32°50′S)
Authors: Fennell Lucas M. , Martos Federico Exequiel , Peluffo Nicolás A. , Acevedo Eliana , Fernández Paz Lucía , Morel Luciano , Scazziota Mauro , Naipauer Maximiliano , Hauser Natalia , Litvak Vanesa D. , Folguera Andrés
Published: September 2023

The Aconcagua region constitutes a classical site to study the growth of the Andes, being host of the highest mountain of South America and focus of numerous investigations since its first description by Charles Darwin almost 200 years ago. The last detailed works in this area characterized it as a typical thin-skinned fold-thrust belt with a basal detachment located in the lower evaporitic units of the Mesozoic sequences. Previous authors in this area correlated the different thrust sheets on the basis of their marine fossils, sedimentological characteristics and structural relations. Although these criteria were useful for the identification of the marine and evaporitic units, the resemblance between the nonmarine red beds and among the different volcanic units has difficulted their unequivocal assignment. Moreover, the inaccessibility of the outcrops and the lack of an adequate geochronological control has led to underestimate the importance of the Aconcagua fold-thrust belt in the last couple of years, being characterized as a secondary feature in Andean orogenesis. A series of new field observations, sedimentological studies and geochronological analyses were performed to update the geological map of this area and build a schematic cross section along the Río Cuevas at 32°50’S in west-central Argentina. These studies allowed the identification of important variations on the thickness of the Upper Jurassic nonmarine sequences associated with the activity of normal faults and the development of structural highs. Many of these normal faults are presently inverted, which suggests that tectonic inversion played an important role in the structuration of this region, leading to a deformational style that varies from a thick-skinned inner domain towards a thin-skinned frontal sector. A series of sedimentological profiles aided by four new U-Pb detrital zircon analyses and its integration with new geochronological databases allowed the documentation of previously unrecognized Paleogene deposits, the age reassignation of several volcanic and sedimentary units and the modification of the stratigraphy. Finally, at least three contractional events with different structural mechanisms were identified along this transect, revealing a dynamic tectonic evolution that underscores the role of structural inheritance and the relevance of the Aconcagua fold-thrust belt in the Andean orogeny.
Vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine in metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ulloque-Badaracco Juan R. , Hernandez-Bustamante Enrique A. , Alarcon-Braga Esteban A. , Al-kassab-Córdova Ali , Cabrera-Guzmán Juan C. , Herrera-Añazco Percy , Benites-Zapata Vicente A.
Published: September 2023

Background & aims

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with life-threatening conditions. Several studies have reported an association of vitamin B12, folic acid, or homocysteine (Hcy) levels with MetS. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the association of vitamin B12, folic acid, and Hcy levels with MetS.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Ovid/Medline, and Web of Science were searched up to February 13, 2023. Cross-sectional, case-control, or cohort studies were included. A random-effects model was performed using the DerSimonian and Laird method to estimate the between-study variance. Effect measures were expressed as odds ratios (OR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Between-study heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochran’s Q test and the I2 statistic.

Results

Sixty-six articles (n = 87,988 patients) were included. Higher vitamin B12 levels were inversely associated with MetS (OR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.81–0.93; p < 0.01; I2 = 90%). Higher Hcy levels were associated with MetS (OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.14–1.24; p < 0.01; I2 = 90%). Folate levels were not associated with MetS (OR = 0.83; 95% CI: 0.66–1.03; p = 0.09; I2 = 90%).

Conclusion

Higher vitamin B12 levels were inversely associated with MetS, whereas higher Hcy levels were associated with MetS. Studies assessing the pathways underlying this association are required.
My 28 Days - a global digital women’s health initiative for evaluation and management of secondary amenorrhea: case report and literature review
Authors: Nelson Lawrence M. , Spencer Hillary , Hijane Karima , Thinuan Payom , Nelson Chaninan W. , Vincent Amanda J. , Gordon Catherine M. , Plant Tony M. , Fazeli Pouneh K.
Published: September 2023

There is a need to close the gap between knowledge and action in health care. Effective care requires a convenient and reliable distribution process. As global internet and mobile communication increase capacity, innovative approaches to digital health education platforms and care delivery are feasible. We report the case of a young African woman who developed acute secondary amenorrhea at age 18. Subsequently, she experienced a 10-year delay in the diagnosis of the underlying cause. A global digital medical hub focused on women’s health and secondary amenorrhea could reduce the chance of such mismanagement. Such a hub would establish more efficient information integration and exchange processes to better serve patients, family caregivers, health care providers, and investigators. Here, we show proof of concept for a global digital medical hub for women’s health. First, we describe the physiological control systems that govern the normal menstrual cycle, and review the pathophysiology and management of secondary amenorrhea. The symptom may lead to broad and profound health implications for the patient and extended family members. In specific situations, there may be significant morbidity related to estradiol deficiency: (1) reduced bone mineral density, 2) cardiovascular disease, and 3) cognitive decline. Using primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) as the paradigm condition, the Mary Elizabeth Conover Foundation has been able to address the specific global educational needs of these women. The Foundation did this by creating a professionally managed Facebook group specifically for these women. POI most commonly presents with secondary amenorrhea. Here we demonstrate the feasibility of conducting a natural history study on secondary amenorrhea with international reach to be coordinated by a global digital medical hub. Such an approach takes full advantage of internet and mobile device communication systems. We refer to this global digital women’s health initiative as My 28 Days®.
Oral semaglutide improves body composition and preserves lean mass in patients with type 2 diabetes: a 26-week prospective real-life study
Authors: Volpe Sara , Lisco Giuseppe , Fanelli Margherita , Racaniello Davide , Colaianni Valentina , Lavarra Valentina , Triggiani Domenico , Crudele Lucilla , Triggiani Vincenzo , Sabbà Carlo , De Pergola Giovanni , Piazzolla Giuseppina
Published: September 2023

Background

Oral semaglutide is the first glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) designed for oral administration; it offers a promising opportunity to facilitate an early approach to Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). The study aimed to evaluate, in a real-life setting, the effects of oral semaglutide on the body composition of patients with T2D after 26 weeks of therapy.

Methods

Thirty-two patients with T2D were evaluated at baseline (T0) and after three (T3) and six (T6) months of therapy with oral semaglutide. At each time point, body composition was assessed using a phase sensitive bioimpedance analyzer. Clinical, anthropometric and laboratory parameters, and the main biometric surrogates of liver steatosis and fibrosis, were also analyzed and compared.

Results

A significant and early reduction in anthropometric and glucometabolic parameters, alanine aminotransferase, Fatty Liver Index, and Fat Mass was observed. Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT) decreased, while Fat Free Mass and Skeletal Muscle Mass (SMM) were preserved during therapy, resulting in a beneficial increase in the SMM/VAT ratio. Finally, an overall improvement in body fluid distribution was observed.

Conclusion

Our real-world data confirm the clinical efficacy of oral semaglutide and highlight its ability to improve the nutritional status of patients with T2D.
PyCreas: a tool for quantification of localization and distribution of endocrine cell types in the islets of Langerhans
Authors: Asuaje Pfeifer Melissa , Langehein Hans , Grupe Katharina , Müller Steffi , Seyda Joana , Liebmann Moritz , Rustenbeck Ingo , Scherneck Stephan
Published: September 2023

Manifest diabetes, but also conditions of increased insulin resistance such as pregnancy or obesity can lead to islet architecture remodeling. The contributing mechanisms are as poorly understood as the consequences of altered cell arrangement. For the quantification of the different cell types but also the frequency of different cell-cell contacts within the islets, different approaches exist. However, few methods are available to characterize islet cell distribution in a statistically valid manner. Here we describe PyCreas, an open-source tool written in Python that allows semi-automated analysis of islet cell distribution based on images of pancreatic sections stained by immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence. To ensure that the PyCreas tool is suitable for quantitative analysis of cell distribution in the islets at different metabolic states, we studied the localization and distribution of alpha, beta, and delta cells during gestation and prediabetes. We compared the islet cell distribution of pancreatic islets from metabolically healthy NMRI mice with that of New Zealand obese (NZO) mice, which exhibit impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) both preconceptionally and during gestation, and from C57BL/6 N (B6) mice, which acquire this IGT only during gestation. Since substrain(s) of the NZO mice are known to show a variant in the Abcc8 gene, we additionally examined preconceptional SUR1 knock-out (SUR1-KO) mice. PyCreas provided quantitative evidence that alterations in the Abcc8 gene are associated with an altered distribution pattern of islet cells. Moreover, our data indicate that this cannot be a consequence of prolonged hyperglycemia, as islet architecture is already altered in the prediabetic state. Furthermore, the quantitative analysis suggests that states of transient IGT, such as during common gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), are not associated with changes in islet architecture as observed during long-term IGT. PyCreas provides the ability to systematically analyze the localization and distribution of islet cells at different stages of metabolic disease to better understand the underlying pathophysiology.
Wildfire monitoring technologies of transmission line corridors based on Fengyun-3E satellite imaging
Authors: Li Jinsong , Chen Jie , Yu Hua , Jiang Min , Lu Zhumao , Zhou You , Wang Shuai , Fan Jingjing
Published: September 2023

Facing towards the Carbon Neutrality goal by 2060, renewable energy sources are boosted in China in the past decade. Either these renewables or power systems are sensitive and vulnerable to natural disasters, such as wildfire and typhoon. In this paper, a fire spot identification algorithm is proposed for wildfire disaster occurred in transmission line corridors based on Fengyun-3E (FY-3E). It mitigates the effect of large observation of solar zenith angle, as well as changes of satellite views, on the infrared channel detection. And cloud information under complex atmospheric conditions is analyzed to extract the cloud pixel fire spot, which decreases false ratio of fire-spot alerts. According to the analysis of hybrid pixel linear spectrums, the fire-spot detection sensitivity of FY-3E is four times as that of geostationary meteorological satellites. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm was confirmed by an application in the Shanxi province power grid of State Grid in China. It shows that and the FY-3E has a superiority in wildfire monitoring for power system in terms of fire detection sensitivity, spatial range accuracy, and positioning accuracy. Compared to geostationary meteorological satellites, the fire locating accuracy of FY-3E is increased by more than one-fold. This research can assist the operation and maintenance departments of transmission lines to rapidly detect wildfire, thereby reducing the damage of wildfires on the power grid.
Research on the segmentation method of a highway landscape corridor zone
Authors: Hu Shengneng , He Guoqi , Xu Hongwei
Published: September 2023

Highway landscaping is an important part of highway construction, which plays a role in highway engineering to ensure traffic safety, alleviate visual fatigue, manifest culture, and many other roles. In the actual highway landscape design, the concept of highway landscape planning and design remains unclear, the content is complex, and the design lags behind the main construction of the problem. Different landscape themes should be set for different sections of the road to enable the motorway landscape to play its role, and the reasonable division of the highway landscape paragraph nodes and the determination of different landscape themes are the keys to the problem. This study collects natural and humanistic materials along the highway, arranges and classifies them through the cluster analysis method, and then divides the highway landscape into paragraphs through the fusion of cluster analysis and node control method. Then, the landscape resources in the paragraphs are integrated and refined to define the theme of the paragraphs, the landscape of the paragraphs based on the theme of the paragraphs is generated to bring out the regional cultural connotation, and a highway paragraph landscape theme division process is constructed. Finally, based on the survey of the landscape status quo of the Zhunxing Highway, the landscape theme division method is applied to verify its scientificity. The research results show that the highway paragraph landscape division method based on the cluster analysis method can effectively reflect the landscape characteristics of different road sections, enrich the road landscape design content, reflect the regional cultural characteristics, reduce the phenomenon of driver fatigue due to the landscape content of a single driving, and protect the traffic safety of the highway. This method can effectively guide the highway landscape paragraph planning and node design, has simple operation, and has strong practicality.
Jurisdictional approaches to High Conservation Value area designation using regulatory instruments: an Indonesian pilot project
Authors: Padmanaba Michael , Sloan Sean , Watts John D. , Irawan Silvia , Lee Janice Ser Huay , Pasaribu Katryn N. , Wiratama Cokorda Gde Wisnu , Watson Ellen , Utami Nadia Putri
Published: September 2023

Agricultural expansion is the primary driver of tropical deforestation and ecological degradation. Certification schemes for sustainable agricultural supply chains, such that of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), seek to address this issue by identifying and protecting High Conservation Value (HCV) areas within concessions. Although RSPO certification of individual concessions has been beneficial, it has had limited efficacy in arresting systemic ecological degradation at larger scales. In response, certification at a regional, ‘jurisdictional’ scale concordant with local environmental regulation has been proposed as an alternative to conventional, piecemeal certification. Jurisdictional certification schemes require alignment with local legislation to ensure integration with governmental environmental and land-use planning; yet, questions of which legislation, and at which level of government, have remained unaddressed. Here, we report on a pilot jurisdictional RSPO certification scheme implemented by an Indonesian district, based on environmental carrying capacity assessments (ECCA) as legislated by the district government. Using the ECCA, we identified likely HCV areas across the district and considered their distributions with respect to three factors of feasible HCV management: (a) similarity with alternative HCV areas identified by a conventional HCV Screening method, (b) sensitivity to aspects of underlying legislation, and (c) scope for unilateral district-wide management. Likely HCV areas were generally similar between the ECCA and HCV Screening method, as each set spanned ∼90% of the district. However, higher-confidence HCV areas according to the ECCA were much less extensive, at 51% of the district, and uniquely extensive across oil-palm concessions. HCV area designation was highly sensitive to the legislated parameters of the ECCA, namely, the selection and estimation of key ecosystem services. Potentially, subtle variations to ECCA implementation, such as those proposed by agro-industrial lobbyists, would significantly affect jurisdictional HCV designations. Finally, some three-quarters of all HCV areas and higher-confidence HCV areas designated by the ECCA fell outside of the exclusive administrative authority of the district government, being confined to agricultural zones. In politically-decentralised Indonesia, jurisdictional HCV area management would therefore be narrowly confined to agricultural areas, or cooperation between district, provincial, and central governments would be essential to the protection of HCV areas generally across districts.
The earliest belemnite linked with the Carnian Pluvial Episode
Authors: Ma Zhiheng , Zhang Tingshan , Chen Jingwen , Popa Mihai Emilian , Li Hongjiao , Li Shixin , Zeng Jianli , Zhang Xi
Published: September 2023

Sinobelemnites from the Upper Triassic (Carnian, Julian 2) of the Luxi County, Yunnan Province, Southwest China are described and discussed, with two species:Sinobelemnites maantangensisandSichuanobelus luxiensissp. nov.Sichuanobelus luxiensissp. nov. has a rostrum with a single alveolar groove along the dorsal side, with the rostral diameter increasing quickly along the rostrum cavum region. The rough rostral surface of Sinobelemnites is typical for the group. The occurrence of belemnites during the Carnian, especially during the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE), indicates the CPE as a drive for belemnite flourishment and preservation.
A rare case of mosaic Klinefelter syndrome in a 45-year-old man leading to successful live birth through ejaculated spermatozoa: a case report and literature review
Authors: Elzeiny Hossam , Agresta Franca , Stevens John , Gardner David K.
Published: September 2023

Background: Men diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome (KS) commonly exhibit non-obstructive azoospermia or rarely having sperm in their ejaculate, rendering them traditionally considered sterile prior to the introduction of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The presence of mosaic KS may mask the classical phenotype, resulting in underdiagnosis throughout their lifetime. Surgical sperm retrieval through Microdissection Testicular Sperm Extraction (Micro-TESE) combined with ICSI has become the gold standard approach, maximizing reproductive outcomes in these individuals. However, it is noteworthy that approximately 7% of men with KS may exhibit sperm in their ejaculate, providing an opportunity for them to achieve biological parenthood through ICSI.

Case Presentation: In this report, we present an exceptional case of a 45-year-old man with Mosaic KS and severe oligozoospermia who successfully achieved pregnancy utilizing ICSI with freshly ejaculated sperm. Remarkably, this case represents the oldest recorded instance of a man with Klinefelter syndrome fathering his own biological child using sperm derived from fresh ejaculate.

Conclusion: Although this case is exceedingly rare, it underscores the critical importance of exhausting all possibilities to facilitate biological parenthood in men with KS before considering alternative options such as sperm donation or adoption. By recognizing the potential for successful conception using ejaculated sperm in this population, we can provide individuals with mosaic KS the opportunity to fulfill their desire for biological offspring.
Sarcoidosis-like reaction induced by immune checkpoint inhibitor in a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Torres-Zurita Alberto , Vázquez-Montero Lucía , Gallego-López Laura , Mediano-Rambla María Dolores , de la Cruz-Merino Luis
Published: September 2023

Nowadays, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have become the cornerstone of treatment for many tumors, either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies. However, these drugs are associated with several new side effects that need early detection. We present the case of a 41-year-old male patient who has been diagnosed with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with metastatic retroperitoneal lymph nodes and a subdiaphragmatic metastatic lesion, undergoing second-line treatment with a combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab. After completing four cycles, the patient was admitted to the hospital due to intermittent fever and profuse sweating. A CT scan showed multiple pathologically enlarged lymph nodes in several locations, raising suspicion of disease progression. The patient’s clinical progress was favorable after symptomatic treatment (antipyretics) and was discharged one week after admission. Several days later, the patient complained about painful bilateral ocular redness and was diagnosed with bilateral anterior uveitis. Further blood tests showed elevated angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) levels of 67 U/L (normal range: 8 – 52) and decreasing alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels of 698 ng/mL (previously 1210 ng/mL), indicative of non-progression of the oncological disease. Finally, an excisional biopsy confirmed the presence of non-necrotizing granulomatous lymphadenitis, leading to the diagnosis of sarcoidosis-like reaction (SLR) induced by immunotherapy as the etiology of the polyadenopathy syndrome. SLR, although uncommon, is an adverse effect of ICI treatment resulting from immune system dysregulation, which can mimic disease progression. It is crucial to be aware of this adverse event and to understand the optimal management approach.
Human leukocyte antigen association in systemic sclerosis patients: our experience at a tertiary care center in North India
Authors: Machhua Sanghamitra , Sharma Shefali Khanna , Kumar Yashwant , Singh Surjit , Aggarwal Ritu , Anand Shashi , Kumar Manoj , Singh Heera , Minz Ranjana Walker
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune rheumatic disease of unknown etiology. Several studies have established that SSc is triggered by a dynamic interplay between genetic factors and environmental stimuli. In the present study, we aimed to study the association of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) with familial and non-familial SSc patients [limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) and diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc)] from North India.

Methods

The HLA-A, B, DRB1, and DQB1 genotyping of 150 (70 lcSSc and 80 dcSSc) adult-onset SSc patients and 150 age-gender-matched healthy controls were performed with sequence-specific oligonucleotide (SSO) typing kits using the luminex platform. HLA typing for HLA class I (A, B, and C) and II (DRB1, DQB1, and DPB1) in five North Indian families consisting of parent–child/sibling pairs affected with SSc or overlap syndrome was performed by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) with Illumina MiniSeq.

Rseults

Among the non-familial SSc patients, HLA- DRB1*11 (P = 0.001, OR: 2.38, Pc = 0.01) was identified as a risk allele, and DRB1*12 (P = .0001, OR: 0.00, Pc = 0.001) as a protective allele. There was no statistical association found with HLA-DQB1*. Also, no significant association was observed between HLA antigens and different clinical subsets (lcSSc and dcSSc) of SSc. Two cases of familial SSc patients had the DRB1*11 allele. The DRB1*12 allele was absent in all the familial SSc patients.

Discussion

HLA DRB1*11 (risk allele) and DRB1*12 (protective allele) were found to be strongly associated with non-familial SSc patients and partially explain the disease’s familial clustering, supporting the susceptible genetic background theory for SSc development. The study also indicates the HLA allele as a common genetic risk factor in distinct autoimmune diseases contributing to overlap syndrome or polyautoimmunity.
AURKA inhibitor-induced PD-L1 upregulation impairs antitumor immune responses
Authors: Meng Bi , Zhao Xuan , Jiang Shuchang , Xu Zijian , Li Sijin , Wang Xu , Ma Wen , Li Liantao , Liu Dan , Zheng Junnian , Peng Hui , Shi Ming
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Tumor immunotherapy targeting PD-L1 has emerged as one of the powerful tools for tumor therapy. Numerous studies indicate that tumor-targeted drugs critically have an influence on the interaction between the immune system and tumors by changing the expression of PD-L1, which is beneficial for immunotherapy. Our study provided novel evidence for improving the drug regimen in tumor targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

Methods

The expression of PD-L1 on SKBR3, MDA-MB-231, MCF7, 4T1, MC38 and B16 cells was evaluated by flow cytometry after treatment with six preclinical targeted drugs (ARN-509, AZD3514, Galeterone, Neratinib, MLN8237 and LGK974). AURKA was knockdowned by using the specific siRNA or CRISPR-Cas9 technology. In the 4T1-breast tumor and colorectal cancer xenograft tumor models, we determined the number of infiltrated CD3+ and CD8+ T cells in tumor tissues by IHC.

Results

We found that AURKA inhibitor MLN8237 promoted the expression of PD-L1 in a time- and concentration-dependent manner while exerted its antitumor effect. Knockdown of AURKA could induce the upregulation of PD-L1 on SKBR3 cells. MLN8237-induced PD-L1 upregulation was mainly associated with the phosphorylation of STAT3. In the 4T1-breast tumor xenograft model, the infiltrated CD3+ and CD8+ T cells decreased after treatment with MLN8237. When treated with MLN8237 in combination with anti-PD-L1 antibody, the volumes of tumor were significantly reduced and accompanied by increasing the infiltration of CD3+ and CD8+ T cells in colorectal cancer xenograft tumor model.

Discussion

Our data demonstrated that MLN8237 improved the effect of immunology-related therapy on tumor cells by interacting with anti-PD-L1 antibody, which contributed to producing creative sparks for exploring the possible solutions to overcoming drug resistance to tumor targeted therapy.
Relapsing polychondritis: focus on cardiac involvement
Authors: Yin Ruxue , Zhao Mengzhu , Xu Dong , Wang Qian , Li Mengtao , Zhang Wen , Zhang Fengchun , Zeng Xiaofeng , Huo Yuping , Hou Yong
Published: September 2023

Background

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) with cardiac involvement may present with acute cardiovascular events, and may be associated with a negative prognosis. Herein, we analyzed the clinical characteristics of RP patients with cardiac involvement.

Method

RP patients, hospitalized from December 2005 to December 2021 at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), were screened. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to statistically analyze the clinical characteristics of these patients.

Results

The incidence of cardiac involvement in inpatients with RP was 24.1%. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed age, central nervous system (CNS) involvement, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) > 6.41, and disease duration > 4 years as risk factors for cardiac involvement in RP. Conversely, the incidence of tracheobronchial and chest wall involvement was significantly lower in the group with cardiac involvement. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that age, CNS involvement, NLR > 6.41, and disease duration > 4 years were independent factors for cardiac involvement. Subsequently, we identified five well-defined clinical patterns of RP, based on the involvement of different organs in our patients, and found that the heart-brain model was significantly mutually exclusive with the airway model.

Conclusion

Occurrence of cardiac involvement in RP is associated with age, CNS involvement, NLR, and disease duration. It is mutually exclusive with airway-related involvement. Regular echocardiography and electrocardiography are necessary for patients with RP.
Deciphering the mechanism of Peptostreptococcus anaerobius-induced chemoresistance in colorectal cancer: the important roles of MDSC recruitment and EMT activation
Authors: Gu Jinhua , Lv Xiaojun , Li Wenwen , Li Guangcai , He Xialian , Zhang Ye , Shi Lihong , Zhang Xiaoqian
Published: September 2023

Peptostreptococcus anaerobius (P. anaerobius, PA) in intestinal flora of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) are associated with poor prognosis. Studies have shown that P. anaerobius could promote colorectal carcinogenesis and progression, but whether P. anaerobius could induce chemoresistance of colorectal cancer has not been clarified. Here, both in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that P. anaerobius specifically colonized the CRC lesion and enhanced chemoresistance of colorectal cancer to oxaliplatin by recruiting myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) into the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, this study revealed that it was the increased secretion of IL-23 by MDSCs that subsequently facilitated the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells to induce chemoresistance of CRC by activating the Stat3-EMT pathway. Our results highlight that targeting P. anaerobius might be a novel therapeutic strategy to overcome chemoresistance in the treatment of CRC.