bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemoglobin Variants as Targets for Stabilizing Drugs
Authors: Žoldáková Miroslava , Novotný Michal , Khakurel Krishna P. , Žoldák Gabriel
Published: November 2024

Hemoglobin is a vital protein in red blood cells primarily responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues. It binds to various ligands, including oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitric oxide, influencing its function and regulation. Genetic mutations of Hb can lead to variants causing disorders like sickle cell disease and thalassemias, which present significant clinical challenges. Recent advances in therapies, such as allosteric modulators, pharmacological chaperones, and antioxidant treatments, have improved the management of hemoglobinopathies by enhancing hemoglobin stability and increasing oxygen affinity. According to the UniProt database (as of 7th August 2024), there are currently 819 variants of the -hemoglobin subunit and 771 variants of the -hemoglobin subunit. Over 116 hemoglobin subunit variants are classified as unstable, highlighting the need to further develop variant-specific hemoglobin-stabilizing molecules. In addition to several small-molecule binders, a potential in the engineering of proteins with hemoglobin-binding capabilities, e.g. falcilysin, lama-derived nanobodies, -hemoglobin-stabilizing proteins and others, offer promising options for further development. Continued research is essential for developing personalized treatments that consider the genetic diversity of hemoglobin variants, offering hope for more targeted therapies, improved management, and potential cures for hemoglobin-related disorders.
Thoracolumbar Fracture
Authors: Striano Brendan M. , Crawford Alexander M. , Gong Jonathan , Desai Vineet , Gabriel Daniel C. , Bellamy J. Taylor , Mukorombindo Tino , Cohen Lara L. , Simpson Andrew K. , Schoenfeld Andrew J.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine are increasingly common. Although it is known that such fractures may elevate the risk of near-term morbidity, the natural history of patients who sustain such injuries remains poorly described. We sought to characterize the natural history of patients treated for thoracolumbar fractures and to understand clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with survival.

Methods:

Patients treated for acute thoracic or lumbar spine fractures within a large academic health-care network between 2015 and 2021 were identified. Clinical, radiographic, and mortality data were obtained from medical records and administrative charts. Survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves. We used multivariable logistic regression to evaluate factors associated with survival, while adjusting for confounders. Results were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

The study included 717 patients (median age, 66 years; 59.8% male; 69% non-Hispanic White). The mortality rate was 7.0% (n = 50), 16.2% (n = 116), and 20.4% (n = 146) at 3, 12, and 24 months following injury, respectively. In adjusted analysis, patients who died within the first year following injury were more likely to be older (OR = 1.03; 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.05) and male (OR = 1.67; 95% CI = 1.05 to 2.69). A higher Injury Severity Score, lower Glasgow Coma Scale score, and higher Charlson Comorbidity Index at presentation were also influential factors. The final model explained 81% (95% CI = 81% to 83%) of the variation in survival.

Conclusions:

We identified a previously underappreciated fact: thoracolumbar fractures are associated with a mortality risk comparable with that of hip fractures. The risk of mortality is greatest in elderly patients and those with multiple comorbidities. The results of our model can be used in patient and family counseling, informed decision-making, and resource allocation to mitigate the potential risk of near-term mortality in high-risk individuals.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Review of Outcomes After Peripheral Nerve Transfers for Motor Nerve Injury in the Upper Extremity
Authors: Fisher Marlie H. , Le Elliot L.H. , Wong Daniel E. , Ducic Ivica , Iorio Matthew L.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Modern nerve-to-nerve transfers are a significant advancement in peripheral nerve surgery. Nerve transfers involve transferring donor nerves or branches to recipient nerves close to the motor end unit, leading to earlier reinnervation and preservation of the musculotendinous units in proximal nerve injuries. After nerve reinnervation, function may be superior to traditional tendon transfer techniques in terms of strength and independent motion. Nerve transfer surgery has emerged as a promising treatment option for many cases of nerve injury that were previously expected to result in poor outcomes, such as proximal injuries, long nerve gaps, or unavailability of the proximal injured segment.

Methods:

A review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Publications that focused on upper extremity nerve transfers were included, and functional motor and sensory recovery was analyzed. Technique reports, case reports, brachial plexus injuries, and reports on multiple nerve injuries were excluded.

Results:

A total of 48 relevant articles were identified with search criteria, and we discuss functional outcomes on nerve transfers for ulnar nerve injury, musculocutaneous nerve injury, median nerve injury, and radial nerve injury that met inclusion criteria.

Conclusions:

Nerve transfers are an option for restoring hand and forearm function in patients with peripheral nerve injuries adversely affecting their ability to function. The literature demonstrates positive functional outcomes after nerve transfer operations, and thus, the utility and variations have increased. We aim to provide an overview of the outcomes of current nerve transfer techniques for ulnar, radial, median, and musculocutaneous acquired/traumatic mononeuropathies in the hand and upper extremity.
Asociación entre autopercepción de salud y hábitos poco saludables en estudiantes de medicina
Authors:   , Liza Huaman Ana Maria , Cardenas Rodriguez Dunia Valentina
Published: November 2024

Introducción: Es importante una dieta saludable juntamente con un estilo de vida saludable para poder prevenir enfermedades no transmisibles como la diabetes y cardiopatías. A pesar de su gran importancia, la mayoría de los estudiantes no practican comportamientos saludables, por ello, la inactividad física sigue siendo un problema común. Objetivo: explorar la asociación entre la autopercepción de salud y los hábitos pocos saludables que existe en los estudiantes de medicina, identificando los hábitos con mayor impacto negativo en su rendimiento académico. Metodología: Estudio observacional y retrospectivo, donde se analizó (n=966) estudiantes de medicina humana en el Perú. La población fue seleccionada por programas acreditados por la SUNEDU y sociedades científicas de alumnos donde se utilizó un muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia donde se evaluaron variables como actividad física, tabaquismo, dieta poco saludable, consumo de alcohol y autopercepción de salud. Resultado: Un total de 966 estudiantes de primero a séptimo año de la carrera fueron analizados, dentro de los cuales el 55.49% participantes percibieron su salud como buena, seguido por una autopercepción muy buena con un 22,88%. En relación con hábitos nocivos se pudo observar que 8,90 % tenían el hábito de fumar, el 81,57 % reporto estar bajo estrés y el 29,30% no hacían actividad física. Conclusiones: En este estudio se evidenció que las personas que reportaron tener estrés y pobre actividad física tuvieron mayores probabilidades de tener un auto reporte de salud negativo, pero no se encontró asociación con otros hábitos nocivos como el consumo de alcohol y tabaco.
An examination of daily CO2 emissions prediction through a comparative analysis of Machine learning, Deep learning, and Statistical models
Authors: Ajala Adewole Adetoro , Adeoye Oluwatosin Lawrence , Salami Olawale Moshood , Jimoh Yusuf Ayoola
Published: November 2024

Human-induced global warming, primarily attributed to the rise in atmospheric CO2, poses a substantial risk to the survival of humanity. While most research focuses on predicting annual CO2 emissions, which are crucial for setting long-term emission mitigation targets, the precise prediction of daily CO2 emissions is equally vital for setting short-term targets. This study examines the performance of 14 models in predicting daily CO2 emissions data from 1/1/2022 to 30/9/2023 across the top four polluting regions (China, USA, India, and EU27&UK). The 14 models used in the study comprise four statistical models (ARMA, ARIMA, SARMA, and SARIMA), three machine learning models (Support Vector Machine - SVM, Random Forest - RF, and Gradient Boosting - GB), and seven deep learning models (Artificial Neural Network - ANN, Recurrent Neural Network variations such as Gated Recurrent Unit - GRU, Long Short-Term Memory - LSTM, Bidirectional-LSTM - BILSTM, and three hybrid combinations of CNN-RNN). Performance evaluation employs four metrics (R2, MAE, RMSE, MAPE). The results show that machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models, with higher R2 (0.714–0.932) and l ower RMSE (0.480 − 0.247) values, respectively, outperformed the statistical model, which had R2 (-0.060–0.719) and RMSE (1.695 − 0.537) values, in predicting daily CO2 emissions across all four regions. The performance of ML and DL models was further enhanced by differencing, a technique that improves accuracy by ensuring stationarity and creating additional features and patterns the model can learn from. Additionally, applying ensemble techniques such as bagging and voting improved the performance of ML models by about 9.6%, while hybrid combinations of CNN-RNN enhanced the performance of RNN models. In summary, the performance of both ML and DL models was relatively similar. However, due to the high computational requirements associated with DL models, the recommended models for daily CO2 emission prediction are ML models using the ensemble technique of voting and bagging. This model can assist in accurately forecasting daily emissions, aiding authorities in setting targets for CO2 emissions reduction.
Creep behavior of slip zone considering the rivalry between soil hardening and damage: case study of a giant colluvial landslide
Authors: Huang Mengshuang , Tang Huiming , Tan Qinwen , Fan Zhiqiang , Li Chun , Li Changdong , Niu Yikai , Huang Zhongzhu , Liu Xuan
Published: November 2024

Large colluvial landslides often exhibit creep characteristics influenced by slip zones, whose behavior is closely related to their inherent structure and stress conditions. To investigate this, a triaxial compression creep test on undisturbed slip zone soil was conducted. The results revealed that the soil exhibited a short period of attenuation creep following temporary deformation, then quickly transitioned into the steady creep stage. A rivalry mechanism between hardening and damage effects was suggested to explain and quantitatively characterize the various stages of creep. On this purpose, a three-dimensional constitutive model (H-D3D) was constructed to effectively capture the staged creep behavior, meanwhile a sophisticated approach to solving model parameters was also put forth, considering well the characteristics of each creep stage. After that, the H-D3D model was implemented in FLAC3D through secondary development to numerically solve the complex creep behavior of slip zones and landslides. The results demonstrate that employment of the suggested model successful represents the staged deforming behavior of the targeted landslide that is influenced by fluctuating water levels, confirming the accuracy as well as applicability of the proposed model. Therefore, this research introduces a critical theoretical framework and computational tool for analyzing the deformation behavior of colluvial landslides.
An adaptive fault diagnosis method for rotating machinery based on GCN deep feature extraction and OptGB
Authors: Wang Linjun , Wu Zhenxiong , Wu Haihua , Yang Xifa , Xie Youxiang
Published: November 2024

Detecting faults in bearings and gears is pivotal for smooth machinery and equipment operation, as well as in preventing potentially catastrophic accidents. However, the fault diagnosis method using deep learning is highly dependent on the correlation between the extracted vibration signal features, while the original graph convolutional network (GCN) cannot accurately identify the fault type of rotating machinery and is sensitive to the noise. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes a new fault diagnosis model for rotating machinery based on GCN deep feature extraction and LightGBM optimized by Optuna (GCN-OptGBM). Firstly, in the graph-building stage, the mutual information is used to filter the features and reduce the complexity of the subsequent graph model. Secondly, the weighted Minkowski distance is used to convert the feature matrix into the graph data, then the feature matrix and graph data are input into the GCN together, and the feature extraction is carried out through three graph convolution layers and two rule layers. Finally, the extracted feature data are input into the LightGBM optimized by the Optuna algorithm to achieve the adaptive fault diagnosis and obtain the optimal fault identification results. Experiments are performed on the public dataset of bearings and gears, and the experimental results show that compared with other models, GCN-OptGBM has higher recognition accuracy, better noise immunity and robustness.
Cancer stem cell populations are resistant to 5-aminolevulinic acid- photodynamic therapy (5-ALA-PDT)
Authors: Rice Chantel PJ , Chelakkot Vipin Shankar , Conohan Noah , Hirasawa Kensuke
Published: November 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment approved for many types of cancers. PDT involves the administration of photoactive substances called photosensitizers (PS) that selectively accumulate in cancer cells and are subsequently excited/activated by irradiation with specific wavelengths of light. Activated PS leads to the generation of singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS), promoting cancer cell death. 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a naturally occurring PS precursor, which is metabolically converted to the PS, protoporphyrin IX (PPIX). Although 5-ALA-PDT is effective at killing cancer cells, we normally observed in in vitro experiments that approximately 5–10% of cells survive 5-ALA-PDT. Identifying the mechanisms of resistance to 5-ALA-PDT-mediated cell death is important to prevent tumor recurrence following 5-ALA-PDT. Previously, we reported that oncogenic activation of Ras/MEK promotes PPIX efflux and reduces cellular sensitivity to 5-ALA-PDT through increased expression of ABCB1 transporter. As cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known to drive resistance to other cancer treatments and have high efflux of chemotherapeutic agents via ABC-family transporters, we hypothesize that CSCs underlie 5-ALA-PDT resistance. In this study, we determined 1) if CSCs are resistant to 5-ALA-PDT and 2) if CSCs play roles in establishing resistant populations of 5-ALA-PDT. When we compared CSC populations before and after 5-ALA-PDT, we found that CSCs were less susceptible to 5-ALA-PDT. Moreover, we found that the CSC population was enriched in 5-ALA-PDT-resistant cell lines compared to the parental cell line. Our results indicate that CSCs are not sensitive to 5-ALA-PDT, which may contribute to establishment of 5-ALA-PDT resistance.
Constraining Genetic Symbolic Regression via Semantic Backpropagation
Authors: Reissmann Maximilian , Fang Yuan , Ooi Andrew S.H. , Sandberg Richard
Published: November 2024

Evolutionary symbolic regression approaches are powerful tools that can approximate an explicit mapping between input features and observation for various problems. However, ensuring that explored expressions maintain consistency with domain-specific constraints remains a crucial challenge. While neural networks are able to employ additional information like conservation laws to achieve more appropriate and robust approximations, the potential remains unrealized within genetic algorithms. This disparity is rooted in the inherent discrete randomness of recombining and mutating to generate new mapping expressions, making it challenging to maintain and preserve inferred constraints or restrictions in the course of the exploration. To address this limitation, we propose an approach centered on semantic backpropagation incorporated into the Gene Expression Programming (GEP), which integrates domain-specific properties in a vector representation as corrective feedback during the evolutionary process. By creating backward rules akin to algorithmic differentiation and leveraging pre-computed subsolutions, the mechanism allows the enforcement of any constraint within an expression tree by determining the misalignment and propagating desired changes back. To illustrate the effectiveness of constraining GEP through semantic backpropagation, we take the constraint of physical dimension as an example. This framework is applied to discover physical equations from the Feynman lectures. Results have shown not only an increased likelihood of recovering the original equation but also notable robustness in the presence of noisy data.
Association between allergen-specific immunoglobulin E positivity, allergic rhinitis symptoms, and quality of life in school-aged children
Authors: Watanabe Daisuke , Otawa Sanae , Kushima Megumi , Yui Hideki , Shinohara Ryoji , Yamagata Zentaro , Sakurai Daiju , Miyake Kunio
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) sensitization and allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms in school-aged children in Japan and to understand the current severity of AR symptoms and the quality of life (QOL) among children with AR. We analyzed data from 8-year-old children who participated in the Yamanashi Adjunct Study of the Japan Environment and Children's Study, focusing on those with complete information o on specific IgE levels and AR (1,229 for perennial AR [PAR] and 1,196 for seasonal AR [SAR]). Sensitization was determined when allergen-specific IgE levels were class 2 (0.70 U/mL) or higher. Among those who tested positive for house dust mite (HDM)-specific IgE, 656 (53.4%) children were identified, including 362 (60.6%) boys and 294 (46.5%) girls. For Japanese cedar pollen (JCP)-specific IgE, 820 (68.6%) children were sensitized, with 430 (73.1%) boys and 390 (64.1%) girls. Among children with AR, 38.3% of those with PAR and 76.2% of those with SAR experienced moderate to severe nasal symptoms. This study highlighted the high prevalence of JCP-specific IgE sensitization among school-aged children in Japan and provided insights into the severity of AR symptoms and the impact on QOL in these children.
Construction of a genetic linkage map and QTL mapping of the agronomic traits in Foxtail millet (Setaria italica)
Authors: Gao Lulu , Zhu Qianxue , Li Huan , Wang Shiyuan , Fan Jiahui , Wang Tianguo , Yang Lejie , Zhao Yuqin , Ma Yixuan , Chen Lu , Li Xiaorui , Dong Shuqi , Chu Xiaoqian , Diao Xianmin , Yuan Xiangyang , Wang Jiagang , Yang Guanghui
Published: November 2024

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) is one of the most ancient cultivated cereal crops and is ideal for the functional genomics of the Panicoideae crops. In the present study, we generated an F2 population derived from a cross between an elite foxtail millet variety Jingu28 and a backbone line Ai88 and constructed a genetic linkage map with 213 published SSR markers and two InDel markers. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping identified 46 QTL for 12 agronomic traits, including 13 major effect QTL. Meanwhile, 40 QTL controlling different traits formed 13 co-located QTL clusters. Moreover, one putative candidate gene Seita.9G020100 for qHD9-1 with conserved CCT (constans, constans-like, and timing of chlorophyll A/B binding) motif and a gibberellin biosynthesis related GA20 oxidase gene Seita.5G404900 for qPH5-1 were identified based on homologous gene comparison. The 277 bp insertion/deletion on the promoter of Seita.9G020100 and the one-base (G) insertion/deletion in the third exon of Seita.5G404900 might be candidate functional sites. Furthermore, two markers (Ghd7InDel and GA20oxSTARP-1) were developed based on these two variation sites, respectively. These results will help to elucidate the genetic basis of important agronomic traits in foxtail millet and be useful for marker-assisted selection of varieties with ideal plant architecture and high yield potential.
A single-vector system for tunable and homogeneous dual gene expression in Escherichia coli
Authors: Živič Z. , Lipoglavšek L. , Lah J. , Hadži S.
Published: November 2024

Expression of recombinant genes can be controlled using inducible promoters. However, the most commonly used IPTG- and arabinose-inducible promoters result in an 'all-or-nothing' response, leading to fully induced and uninduced bacterial subpopulations. Here, we investigate whether appropriate modifications to these promoter systems can be combined into a single vector system, enabling homogenous expression of two genes of interest that can be precisely tuned using inducer concentration. We show that modifications of positive feedback loops related to inducer uptake result in homogeneous gene expression in both the T7 lactose and pBAD arabinose systems. Furthermore, these two modified systems were combined into a single vector, pRAT-sfGFP that provides the desired tunable expression of two genes of interest. Finally, we test this single-vector system as a tool for studying two-component genetic circuits, using toxin-antitoxin modules as model systems. This novel low-copy single vector expression system opens up new possibilities for investigating the function of two-component bacterial genetic circuits.
Rapid determination of insect lipids and their fatty acid profile in doughs using hand-held and portable infrared spectrometers
Authors: Mendez-Sanchez Carmen , Ranasinghe Madushika K. , Güell Maria Carme , Ferrando Montserrat , Rodriguez-Saona Luis , Castellvi Silvia Lamo
Published: November 2024

The objective of the study was to evaluate infrared (IR) spectroscopy in combination with pattern recognition analysis as a rapid technique to quantify the percentage of insect lipid added into chickpea-based dough as well as dough’s fatty acid profile. Several chickpea-based doughs were prepared with a variable amount of Tenebrio molitor, Alphitobius diaperinus, and Acheta domesticus lipid fraction (0, 2.9%, 5.8%, 8.7% and 11.6%) replacing the same amount of olive and sunflower oil. The raw doughs were analyzed using portable Fourier transform mid infrared (FT-MIR) and handheld FT-NIR spectrometers. Fatty acid profile was determined by using fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) methods. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used to build up a model to predict the percentage of insect lipid added showing a low standard error of cross-validation (SECV≤0.71%), strong correlation (RCV≥0.85) and great predictive ability (RPD: 5.21-5.53). The saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acids as well as the content of palmitic, oleic and linoleic were correctly predicted with values of SECV≤5.64% and an RCV≥0.88. Nonetheless, the FT-MIR device tested, showed higher performance to predict SFA, MUFA, PUFA and fatty acids reaching values of 0.97 in coefficient of correlation (RP) and 2.81% in standard error in prediction (SEP).
The assessment of root apical curvature of maxillary lateral incisors phenotypes reveals side and gender difference
Authors: Kuchler Erika , Neto Mario Pereira Couto , Stroparo Jeferson Luis Oliveira , Scariot Rafaela , Beisel-Memmert Svenja , Schroder Angela Graciela Deliga , Roskamp Liliane , Hemming Daniel , Matsumoto Mirian Nakane , Mattos Natanael Henrique Ribeiro , Kirschneck Christian , Baratto-Filho Flares
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND Maxillary lateral incisors root angulation is a common developmental aspect characterized by an alteration in the axial inclination between the crown and root of the incisor, in which a curvature of varied angle of the dental root is observed. This study investigated if root apical curvature of maxillary lateral incisors has gender and side preference as observed in patients with cleft lip and/or palate. METHODS Panoramic radiographs from 230 orthodontic patients were investigated. The method described by Schneider method (1971) was used for the estimation of the degree of root apical curvature of maxillary lateral incisors and to classify the root as straight (5° or less) or curved (higher than 5°). To compare curvature degree among genders, t test was used, and to compare left and right degree differences, a paired t-test was used. Chi-squared test and Odds ratio were used to calculate gender and laterality differences among straight or curved root groups. The established alpha was 5%. RESULTS Ninety-seven were males and 133 were females. A total 198 left maxillary incisors and 201 right maxillary incisors were measured. A statistical difference was observed, in which straight root was more common in the left side (p = 0.028; odds ratio = 1.5, confidence interval 95%: 1.1–2.4). On left incisors, the mean curvature degree was 5.9° (SD = 4.4°) in males, while the mean curvature degree was 7.5° (SD = 5.3°) in females (p = 0.030). Means comparisons between left and right incisor regardless the gender showed a statistical significant difference between sides (p = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Our study confirmed the hypotheses that root apical curvature of maxillary lateral incisors has gender and side preference in the general population.
Combined Lipid Metabolism Indicators and CT Deep Learning Model to Predict Rectal Cancer Prognosis
Authors: Zhou Chuan , He Wan-Bin , Zhang Yun-Feng , Yang Zhi-Jun , Yang Jin , Miao Guo-Liang , Zhou FengHai , Da Ming-Xu
Published: November 2024

Objective
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor, and its prognosis is closely associated with abnormalities in lipid metabolism; meanwhile, CT imaging-based radiomics also demonstrates significant advantages in the evaluation of CRC. This study aims to investigate the application value of lipid metabolism indicators and CT deep learning models in prognostic assessment of colorectal cancer.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively collected clinical data, lipid metabolism indicator data, and CT imaging data of patients diagnosed with rectal cancer by pathology at Gansu Provincial People's Hospital from January 2019 to May 2021. First, we analyzed the patients' lipid metabolism indicators, including serum lipid levels and metabolic-related biomarkers. Next, we delineated regions of interest (ROIs) from the patients' CT images. After delineation, we used a cropping tool to extract the tumor's maximum ROI cross-section for deep learning model training. We trained deep learning models using the ResNet and DenseNet series, plotted ROC curves, and calculated the AUC (area under the curve) to evaluate the performance of the predictive models. We also plotted calibration curves and DCA (decision curve analysis) curves to assess the model's fit and clinical value, and drew KM curves to evaluate its relationship with prognosis. Finally, we used a nomogram to integrate lipid metabolism indicators and the CT deep learning model at the outcome level, establishing a combined model for predicting rectal cancer prognosis.
Results
The predictive model based on lipid metabolism indicators achieved an AUC of 0.700. The CT-based deep learning model achieved an AUC of 0.746 on the test set. The combined model achieved an AUC of 0.863. Calibration curve analysis demonstrated superior accuracy of the combined model, while decision curve analysis (DCA) indicated better clinical utility. Kaplan-Meier curves showed that risk stratification based on the combined model accurately assessed patients' prognosis.
Conclusion
The combined model based on lipid metabolism indicators and CT deep learning has certain predictive value for the prognosis of rectal cancer.
Latent Profile Analysis of Spinal Deep Muscle Strength and Physical Fitness in Elite Taekwondo Athletes
Authors: Lee Jae-Hoon , Kim Taehwan , Lee Minchul , Ha Min-Seong
Published: November 2024

In Taekwondo, core stability and physical fitness are vital for performance, with spinal deep muscles playing a key role. This study explored the relationship between spinal deep muscle strength and physical fitness in 104 adolescent Taekwondo athletes, using a cross-sectional design in a laboratory setting. Participants were classified into groups based on spinal muscle strength at various angles, measured with a Centaur 3D machine. Outcome measures included body composition (height, weight, BMI) and physical fitness (grip strength, back muscle strength, endurance, flexibility, balance, and leg strength). Latent profile analysis identified five profiles: G2 and G4 showed higher body weight and skeletal muscle mass, with G2 also having the highest grip, back, and leg strength. No significant relationship was found between spinal muscle strength and balance. The findings suggest spinal muscle strength and physical fitness do not always correlate, highlighting the need for further research to optimize training.
Protective Effects of Notoginsenoside R2 on Reducing Lipid Accumulation and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Diabetic Nephropathy Through Regulation of c-Src
Authors: Guo Xieyi , Yang Liu , An Xiaoning , Hu Maofang , Shen Yilan , Wang Niansong , Xu Youhua , Gui Dingkun
Published: November 2024

Background
There are few treatment options to delay the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN), a key contributor to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Previous studies reported that traditional Chinese medicine Panax notoginseng (PNG)exerted beneficial effects on DN. However, the renoprotective effects of Notoginsenoside R2 (NR2), an active component of PNG, on DN have not been previously investigated. This study was designed to assess the therapeutic potential of NR2 in DN and to explore its underlying mechanisms.
Methods
In vivo models were developed using db/db mice, while in vitro models utilized HK-2 cells exposed to high glucose and palmitic acid (HGPA). Online databases and Cytoscape software were employed to predict the potential targets of NR2. The expression of associated proteins was measured using Western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC) in an effort to clarify the underlying mechanisms. Lipid accumulation, oxidative stress levels, mitochondrial function, and cell apoptosis were also assessed. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used in in vitro experiments to confirm the effect of c-Src.
Results
NR2 reduced albuminuria, improved renal function, and ameliorated renal pathology. The activation of c-Src, the predicted target, was suppressed in db/db mice and in HK-2 cells exposed to HGPA. Meanwhile, NR2 inhibited the JNK/STAT1 phosphorylation and CD36 overexpression. Both in vivo and in vitro, NR2 intervention reversed lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell apoptosis. By inhibiting c-Src, HK-2 cells exposed to HGPA experienced less lipid deposition and mitochondrial damage, suggesting the renoprotective effects of NR2 were correlated with the inhibition of c-Src.
Conclusion
NR2 ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction and delayed the progression of DN partly through suppression of c-Src. The protective effects of NR2 might be related to a reduction in lipid accumulation.
Blind Quality Evaluation for Tone-Mapped Images by Exploiting Statistical Characteristics and Deep Perceptual Features
Authors: Lin Junhao , Ruan Qiuzi , Cai Siwen , Cui Yueli , Wang Yuhe , Xu Jiaming , Cui Yonglong , Li Shuitu , Liu Yadong , Zhang Shiqing
Published: November 2024

The tone-mapping operator (TMO) aims to convert high dynamic range images into low dynamic range images, enabling them to be displayed on standard monitors. However, this conversion process inevitably results in a decrease in image quality, such as structural damage, contrast degradation and color artifacts, which impacts human’s visual perception. Evaluating the visual quality of tone-mapped images (TMIs) effectively remains a challenge. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel blind metric for evaluating the quality of TMIs based on statistical characteristics and deep perceptual features. Specifically, for statistical features, we firstly extract quality-aware features that capture structure-texture variations from local fractal dimension maps and first digit distribution (FDD) statistics from wavelet and gradient domains to capture structural changes in TMIs. Additionally, considering that TMO procedure introduces noticeable color artifacts, we further extract color statistical features to capture color degradation. For deep perceptual features, a pre-trained CNN model is utilized to extract deep learning-based features that represent semantic changes in TMIs. Finally, considering the significant difference between the extracted statistical and deep perceptual features, we leverage an ensemble learning scheme for feature training and quality score generation. Experimental results conducted on two publicly available benchmark databases demonstrate that our method achieves better performance than existing traditional 2D quality metrics and specifically-designed TMI quality metrics.
LEGO-LPPO membrane activity is enhanced by presence of phosphatidylethanolamine but hindered by outer membrane
Authors: Brzobohatá Hana , Dugić Milica , Mojr Viktor , Sahatsapan Nitjawan , Kóšiová Ivana , Křížek Tomáš , Dolejšová Tereza , Lišková Petra , Cwiklik Lukasz , Rejman Dominik , Fišer Radovan , Mikušová Gabriela
Published: November 2024

Finding effective antibiotics against multi-resistant strains of bacteria has been a challenging race. LEGO-lipophosphonoxins (LEGO-LPPOs) are small modular synthetic antibacterial compounds targeting the cytoplasmic membrane. Here we focused on understanding the reasons for the variable efficacy of selected LEGO-LPPOs (LEGO-1, LEGO-2, LEGO-3, and LEGO-4) differing in hydrophobic and linker module structure and length. LEGO-1-4 permeabilized cytoplasmic membrane of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, LEGO-1 with the longest linker module being the most effective. Gram-positive bacteria were more sensitive to LEGO-LPPO action compared to Gram-negatives, which was manifested as a delayed membrane permeabilization, higher minimal inhibitory concentration and lower amount of LEGO-LPPO bound to the cells. Presence of the intact outer membrane had a greater impact on the LEGO-LPPO action than changes in the structure of the hydrophobic modules, considering that the reduced susceptibility of Gram-negatives was attributed to the presence of the outer membrane and its components. Using liposome leakage and in silico simulations, we showed that membranes with major content of phosphatidylethanolamine were more prone to LEGO-LPPO permeabilization.
Epidemiology, clinical spectrum, and outcomes of severe malaria in Eastern Uganda: a prospective study
Authors: Namayanja Cate , Paasi George , Alunyo Jimmy Patrick , Amorut Denis , Okalebo Charles Benard , Okiror William , Ongodia Paul , Abongo Grace , Muhindo Rita , Lubaale Yovani A. M. , Olupot-Olupot Peter
Published: November 2024

Background
In Sub-Saharan Africa, malaria remains a public health problem despite some reports of declining incidence in the period 2000–2018. Since 2019, there are some reports of disease epidemics, resurgences in areas that had registered steep decline and unusual clinical presentation. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology, clinical spectrum, and outcomes of severe malaria in children in malaria-endemic Eastern Uganda, a region that has recently experienced epidemics.
Methodology:
This prospective study was conducted at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda, from May 08, 2019 to August 15, 2023 as part of the Malaria Epidemiological, Pathophysiological and Intervention studies in Highly Endemic Eastern Uganda (EDCTP - TMA2016SF-1514-MEPIE Study). Children aged 60 days to 12 years who at admission tested positive for malaria and fulfilled the clinical WHO criteria for surveillance of severe malaria were enrolled into the study following appropriate informed consent. Data were collected using a customised proforma on social demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes. Laboratory analyses included complete blood counts, lactate, glucose, blood gases, electrolytes, metabolites, and coagulation markers. In addition, urinalysis using dipsticks was done. Data were analysed using STATA V15. The study had ethical and regulatory approval before data collection commenced.
Results
A total of 1,379 participants were recruited. The median age was 4 years. Most children 757/1379 (54.9%) were under 5 years, and 825/1379 (59.8%) were males. The common symptoms were fever 1368(99.2%), poor appetite 1095(79.5%), inability to sit upright 1051(76.2%), vomiting 944(68.4%) and yellow eyes 833(60.4%). The common signs included prostration, haemoglobinuria and jaundice. Prolonged hospitalization was found in 284/1339(21.2%) and was associated with impaired consciousness 116/166(30.1%), P = 0.003; haemoglobinuria 514/705 (27.1%), P < 0.001 and jaundice 505/690(26.8%) P < 0.001. The overall mortality was 40/1347 (3.0%). Children who had > 1 severity feature were at a higher risk of mortality.
Conclusion
In this prospective study in children with severe malaria in Eastern Uganda, the overall mortality was 3.0% and the more the disease clinical syndromes the higher the risk of death.
SLC10A7 regulates O-GalNAc glycosylation and Ca2+ homeostasis in the secretory pathway: insights into SLC10A7-CDG
Authors: Durin Zoe , Layotte Aurore , Morelle Willy , Houdou Marine , Folcher Antoine , Legrand Dominique , Lefeber Dirk , Prevarskaya Natalia , Von Blume Julia , Cormier-Daire Valérie , Foulquier Francois
Published: November 2024

Glycans are known to be fundamental for many cellular and physiological functions. Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDGs) currently encompassing over 160 subtypes are characterized by glycan synthesis and/or processing defects. Despite the increasing number of CDG patients, therapeutic options remain very limited as our knowledge is often insufficient on the involved molecular and regulatory mechanisms of glycan synthesis. This is worsened by the emergence of significant subgroup of CDG resulting from defects in unexpected regulators of glycosylation such as ER/ Golgi homeostasis defects. SLC10A7 belongs to the SLC10 protein family, known as bile acid and steroid transport family, exhibiting a unique structure and ubiquitous expression. It is linked to negative calcium regulation in cells, but the mechanisms by which SLC10A7 deficiency lead to Golgi glycosylation abnormalities are unknown. The present study identifies major O-glycosylation defects in both SLC10A7 KO HAP1 cells and SLC10A7-CDG patient fibroblasts, as an increased ER and Golgi calcium contents. We also show that the abundance of COSMC and C1GALT1 is altered in SLC10A7-CDG patient cells, as well as the subcellular Golgi localization of the Ca2+-binding Cab45 protein. Finally, we demonstrate that supraphysiological manganese supplementation suppresses the deficient electrophoretic mobility of TGN46 by an aberrant transfer of GalNAc residues, and we reveal the Mn2+ sensitivity of COSMC. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular cause of Golgi glycosylation defects in SLC10A7-deficient cells and show that SLC10A7 is a key Golgi transmembrane protein in maintaining the tight regulation of Ca2+ homeostasis in the ER and Golgi compartments, both essential for glycosylation.
Prevalence, Clinical Correlates, and Sleep Architectures of Asian Patients with Comorbid Insomnia and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Prospective Study
Authors: Hoc Tran V. , Lee Hsin-Chien
Published: November 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia are the two most common sleep disorders. The coexistence of these conditions, termed comorbid insomnia and sleep apnea (COMISA), has been increasingly recognized, with evidence suggesting a bi-directional relationship that exacerbates the severity of each disorder. This prospective recruited 170 consecutive patients with OSA, categorized into OSA alone and COMISA group. Among recruited patients, 68 (40%) were identified with COMISA. No significant differences were found in age, gender, or body mass index between COMISA and OSA alone groups. However, COMISA patients were more likely to have comorbid medical conditions, reported worse sleep quality, and exhibited higher levels of anxiety and depression. Sleep architecture and the distribution of the low arousal threshold endotype, a potential contributor to COMISA, did not significantly differ between patients with COMISA and OSA alone. Our results suggest that OMISA is prevalent among Asian patients with OSA and is associated with worse subjective sleep quality, adverse health conditions, and higher psychological distress. However, objective sleep architecture and arousal threshold endotypes do not significantly differ from OSA alone. Further research is needed to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying COMISA and optimize treatment approaches.
Adaptive remodeling of rat adrenomedullary stimulus-secretion coupling in a chronic hypertensive environment
Authors: Paillé Vincent , Park Joohee , Toutain Bertrand , Bourreau Jennifer , Fontanaud Pierre , De Nardi Frédéric , Gabillard-Lefort Claudie , Bréard Dimitri , Guilet David , Henrion Daniel , Legros Christian , Guérineau Nathalie C.
Published: November 2024

Chronic elevated blood pressure impinges on the functioning of multiple organs and therefore harms body homeostasis. Elucidating the protective mechanisms whereby the organism copes with sustained or repetitive blood pressure rises is therefore a topical challenge. Here we address this issue in the adrenal medulla, the master neuroendocrine tissue involved in the secretion of catecholamines, influential hormones in blood pressure regulation. Combining electrophysiological techniques with catecholamine secretion assays on acute adrenal slices from spontaneously hypertensive rats, we show that chromaffin cell stimulus-secretion coupling is remodeled, resulting in a less efficient secretory function primarily upon sustained cholinergic challenges. The remodeling is supported by revamped both cellular and tissular mechanisms. This first includes a decrease in chromaffin cell excitability in response to sustained electrical stimulation. This hallmark was observed both experimentally and in a computational chromaffin cell model, and occurs with concomitant changes in voltage-gated ion channel expression. The cholinergic transmission at the splanchnic nerve-chromaffin cell synapses and the gap junctional communication between chromaffin cells are also weakened. As such, by disabling its competence to release catecholamines in response sustained stimulations, the hypertensive medulla has elaborated an adaptive shielding mechanism against damaging effects of redundant elevated catecholamine secretion and associated blood pressure.
A “Plug-n-Play” permeable brick-based microfluidic pump
Authors: Chen Zhihao , Liu Jiahao , Min Shuqiang , Zhan Tonghuan , Huang Yange , Wu Xianchang , Xu Bing , Chen Jianfeng
Published: November 2024

Inexpensive, autonomous, easy to fabricate and portable self-powered microfluidic pumps are urgently required especially in rapid point-of-care testing (POCT). Here, we propose a “Plug-n-Play” permeable brick-based (PB) micropump for autonomous and continuous liquid flow without any external power sources. The key advantage of this pump is that its operation only requires the user to place the PB pump on the outlet of microfluidic devices. The PB pumps are fabricated by simply slicing permeable bricks into predetermined shapes. The microcosmic morphology investigations unveil that their unique porous structures and uneven surface provide outstanding capillary force. For instance, a typical cuboid PB pump (2 × 2 × 2 cm3) can produce an average flow rate of more than 100 µL min− 1, a working time of 10 minutes and a maximum liquid absorption volume of ~ 1200 µL. Also, the flow rate and absorption volume can be programmed by using the PB pumps with different shapes. Finally, we apply hydrophobic reagents (Glaco) treatment on the PB pumps to achieve the control over the liquid flow rates. Based on its advantages of low cost, long service life, and adjustable flow rates, brick pump can be easily integrated into microfluidic systems and has great potential for microfluidic applications, especially in developing regions or in resource-limited settings.
The mechanism of the phosphine-catalyzed oxa-Michael reaction: A DFT investigation
Authors: Suthar Priyanka , Singh Ruchi , Bansal R. K.
Published: November 2024

The model reactions of phenol and methanol with acrolein catalyzed by trimethylphosphine were computed in the gas phase at the B3LYP/6–31 + G(d) level. The reaction is found to occur in four steps. It is initiated by the combination of the oxa-compound with trimethylphosphine to generate successively the reactant complex and the phenoxide/methoxide anion. The latter reacts with acrolein to produce the enolate anion, which accepts a proton from the protonated trimethylphosphonium cation to generate enol intermediate. Finally, 1,3-prototropic shift occurs via trimethylphosphine molecule to afford the final product. Acetonitrile is found to lower activation energies in all the four steps.
Unveiling Green Entrepreneurial Intentions and Behaviour Among Saudi Arabian Youth: Insights and Implications
Authors: Mabkhot Hashed , Semlali Yahdih , Gelaidan Hamid Mahmood , Abdelwahed Nadia A Abdelmegeed , Shaari Hasnizam
Published: November 2024

This study investigates green entrepreneurial intention and behaviour among youth, aiming to provide insights into the factors influencing these phenomena. A survey was conducted with 441 students from the Universities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the data were analysed using SmartPLS-3.3.2. Several hypotheses were tested. Firstly, a positive and significant relationship was found between commitment to environmental causes (CTE) and green entrepreneurial intention (GEI), aligning with prior research. This underscores the influence of personal beliefs and values on driving individuals towards green entrepreneurial activities. Secondly, entrepreneurial motivation (EM) demonstrated a positive and significant relationship with GEI, emphasizing the importance of individual motivation in fostering intentions toward green entrepreneurship. Thirdly, university entrepreneurship support (UES) showed insufficient evidence to establish a significant relationship with GEI, suggesting a potential gap in university support for green entrepreneurship initiatives. Similarly, entrepreneurship education (EE) did not exhibit a statistically significant impact on GEI, highlighting the need for enhanced incorporation of environmental issues in educational programs to inspire GEI. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the significance of promoting green consumption among university students, who possess significant potential to drive positive change in consumption habits. Lastly, a strong and highly significant relationship was observed between GEI and green entrepreneurial behaviour (GEB), emphasizing the pivotal role of intentions in translating into concrete actions. Overall, the findings contribute to understanding the dynamics of GEI and behaviour among Saudi Arabian youth, suggesting avenues for policy interventions and future research directions in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship.