bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytotoxic Lesions beyond the Corpus Callosum Following Acute Meningoencephalitis and Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Lu Kuan-Hsien , Wu Te-Chang , Yeh Poh-Shiow
Published: July 2023

Cytotoxic lesions of the corpus callosum (CLOCCs) are secondary lesions associated with a variety of clinical causes. The presence of a small and reversible lesion in the splenium of corpus callosum with restricted diffusion on cranial magnetic resonance imaging is the defining feature. The clinical-radiological manifestations have been documented as mild and reversible. Severer presentations were scarcely reported. In this report, we described a 25-year-old man with preceding fever, worsening somnolence, and convulsions. He was diagnosed with acute meningoencephalitis and Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection after workups. After medical treatments, he had neurological deterioration and progressing CLOCCs from a small oval lesion in the center of splenium extending to the whole corpus callosum and bilaterally adjacent white matter. The patient received intravenous methylprednisolone and immunoglobulin successively, and his neurological conditions improved. The CLOCCs, not always mild and reversible, could present with severe clinicoradiological features.
Complete Blood Count Markers and C-Reactive Protein as Predictors of Testicular Viability in the Event of Testicular Torsion in Adults
Authors: Barkai Eyal , Dekalo Snir , Yossepowitch Ofer , Ben-Chaim Jacob , Bar-Yosef Yuval , Beri Avi , Mano Roy
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The association between blood markers and testicular viability after testicular torsion (TT) is not well known. We evaluated the role of complete blood count markers and C-reactive protein (CRP) in predicting testicular viability after TT. Methods: Fifty men, ≥18 years of age, operated for TT between the years 2015–2020 were enrolled. Blood markers including neutrophil-, lymphocyte-, and platelet count, and CRP were obtained. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were calculated. The study outcome was testicular salvage. Results: Median age was 23 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 21, 31). Median duration of torsion was 10 h (IQR: 6, 42). Sonographic texture of the testis was homogenous in 27 (56%) patients and heterogenous in 21 (44%). During scrotal exploration, 36 patients (72%) underwent orchiopexy and 14 (28%) underwent orchiectomy. Patients who underwent orchiopexy were younger (22 years vs. 31 years, p = 0.009), had a shorter duration of torsion (median 8 h vs. 48 h, p < 0.001), and a homogenous texture on scrotal ultrasound (76.5 vs. 7.1%, p < 0.001). Median NLR, PLR, and CRP were higher among patients who underwent orchiectomy; however, these differences did not reach statistical significance. Patients with heterogenous echotexture were significantly more likely to undergo orchiectomy (odds ratio = 42, 95% confidence interval: 7, 831, adjusted p value = 0.009). Conclusions: We found no association between blood-based biomarkers and testicular viability after TT; however, testicular echotexture significantly predicted outcome.
Urinary Copper Excretion Is Associated with Long-Term Graft Failure in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Yepes-Calderon Manuela , Kremer Daan , Post Adrian , Sotomayor Camilo G. , Seidel Ulrike , Huebbe Patricia , Knobbe Tim J. , Lüersen Kai , Eisenga Michele F. , Corpeleijn Eva , de Borst Martin H. , Navis Gerjan J , Rimbach Gerald , Bakker Stephan J.L.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: In chronic kidney disease, proteinuria increases urinary copper excretion, inducing oxidative tubular damage and worsening kidney function. We investigated whether this phenomenon occurred in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). In addition, we studied the associations of urinary copper excretion with the biomarker of oxidative tubular damage urinary liver-type fatty-acid binding protein (u-LFABP) and death-censored graft failure. Methods: This prospective cohort study was performed in the Netherlands between 2008 and 2017, including outpatient KTR with a functioning graft for longer than 1 year, who were extensively phenotyped at baseline. Twenty-four-hour urinary copper excretion was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Multivariable linear and Cox regression analyses were performed. Results: In 693 KTR (57% men, 53 ± 13 years, estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] 52 ± 20 mL/min/1.73 m2), baseline median urinary copper excretion was 23.6 (interquartile range 11.3–15.9) µg/24 h. Urinary protein excretion was positively associated with urinary copper excretion (standardized β = 0.39, p < 0.001), and urinary copper excretion was positively associated with u-LFABP (standardized β = 0.29, p < 0.001). During a median follow-up of 8 years, 109 (16%) KTR developed graft failure. KTR with relatively high copper excretion were at higher risk of long-term graft failure (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.32–1.86 per log2, p < 0.001), independent of multiple potential confounders like eGFR, urinary protein excretion, and time after transplantation. A dose-response relationship was observed over increasing tertiles of copper excretion (HR: 5.03, 95% CI: 2.75–9.19, tertile 3 vs. 1, p < 0.001). u-LFABP was a significant mediator of this association (74% of indirect effect, p < 0.001). Conclusion: In KTR, urinary protein excretion is positively correlated with urinary copper excretion. In turn, higher urinary copper excretion is associated with an independent increased risk of kidney graft failure, with a substantial mediating effect through oxidative tubular damage. Further studies are warranted to investigate whether copper excretion-targeted interventions could improve kidney graft survival.
Clinicopathological Analyses of Chronic Renal Allograft Arteriopathy after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Shimizu Tomokazu , Omoto Kazuya , Inui Masashi , Nozaki Taiji , Takagi Toshio , Ishida Hideki
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Herein, we discuss clinicopathological analyses of cases of chronic renal allograft arteriopathy (CRA) after renal transplantation and clarify the mechanisms underlying the development and prognostic significance of CRA. Methods: CRA was diagnosed in 34 renal allograft biopsy specimens (BSs) obtained from 27 renal transplant patients who were followed up at the Department of Urology and Transplant Surgery, Toda Chuo General Hospital, between January 2010 and December 2020. Results: CRA was diagnosed at a median of 33.4 months post-transplantation. Of the 27 patients, 16 had a history of rejection. Among the 34 BSs showing evidence of CRA, CRA was mild (cv1 in Banff’s classification) in 22, moderate (cv2) in 7, and severe (cv3) in 5 patients. We then classified the 34 BSs showing evidence of CRA based on their overall histopathological features as follows: cv alone seen in 11 (32%) BSs, cv + antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in 12 (35%), and cv + T-cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) in 8 (24%). Loss of the renal allograft occurred during the observation period in 3 patients (11%). Of the remaining patients with functioning grafts, deterioration of renal allograft function after biopsies occurred in 7 cases (26%). Conclusions: Our study results suggest that AMR contributes to CRA in 30–40% of cases, TCMR in 20–30% of cases, isolated v lesions in 15% of cases, and cv lesions alone in 30%. The intimal arteritis was a prognostic factor in CRA.
Identifying Risk Factors of Complications following Total Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: Comparison between Splenectomy and Spleen-Preserving Surgery – A Supplementary Analysis of JCOG0110
Authors: Ito Seiji , Sano Takeshi , Mizusawa Junki , Tokunaga Masanori , Hashimoto Tadayoshi , Imamura Hiroshi , Teshima Shin , Nihei Koei , Yamada Makoto , Choda Yasuhiro , Imamura Kazuhiro , Hato Shinji , Terashima Masanori , Sasako Mitsuru
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Splenectomy for proximal gastric cancer was found to offer no survival benefit in a randomized trial clarifying the role of splenectomy (JCOG0110 study). Although many studies have explored risk factors for morbidities following total gastrectomy, none have assessed the risk factors for postoperative complications in spleen-preserving total gastrectomy. Methods: Using data from 505 patients enrolled in a previous randomized trial, risk factors for postoperative complications were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis. Then, the risk factors were assessed separately between splenectomy and spleen-preserving total gastrectomy. Results: Postoperative complications were identified in 119 patients (23.6%) and were more common following splenectomy than following spleen-preserving surgery (30.7% and 16.1%, respectively, p < 0.01). Multivariable analysis revealed that age ≥65 years (p = 0.032), body mass index ≥25 (p = 0.003), and blood loss ≥350 (p = 0.019) were independent risk factors for postoperative complications in the entire cohort. Among them, only body mass index was a significant independent risk factor for complications in both spleen preservation (p = 0.047) and splenectomy groups (p = 0.017). Conclusion: Risk factors for postoperative complications were essentially the same between splenectomy and spleen preservation. Being overweight increased the risk of postoperative complications.
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Bibliometric Analysis via CiteSpace from 2000 to 2022
Authors: Xu Jinbin , Huang ZhanSen , Gao ShunTian , Deng GengGuo , Di Jinming
Published: July 2023

Background: The aim of the study was to identify the cooperation of authors, countries, institutions and explore the hot spots regarding research of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) treatment in the past 22 years. Summary: Relevant original and review articles were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection from 2000 to 2022. CiteSpace software was used to perform the visualization of scientific productivity and emerging trends. Network maps were generated to evaluate the collaborations between different authors, countries, institutions, and keywords. Key Messages: A total of 4,951 articles related to TKI for RCC treatment were identified. We observed a gradual increase in the number of publications from 2000 to 2022. The USA dominated the field in all countries, and Mem Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre (USA) had more extensive cooperating relationships with other institutions. Motzer RJ and Escudier B were two of the authority scholars in this specific field with the most publications and co-citations. Journal of Clinical Oncology had the most citations of all the journals. A total of 10 major clusters were explored based on the reference co-citation analysis. From 2000 to 2022, the research hot spots have undergone two dramatic shifts during 2006 and 2019, respectively, relevant topics were TKI and TKI combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs). At present, the research hot spots focus on CPI and targeted therapies. Bibliometric analysis is allowing researchers to recognize the current research status by providing a comprehensive overview of the development of scientific literature related to TKI for RCC treatment, and information for further research be demonstrated as well.
Unilateral Wing-Beating Tremor in Neuronal Intranuclear Inclusion Disease
Authors: Sugiyama Atsuhiko , Kojima Kazuho , Hirano Shigeki , Sone Jun , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: July 2023

Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a rare neurodegenerative disease with various neurological manifestations, including tremor. Here, we report a case involving a 68-year-old man with an 8-year history of tremor in his right arm. Subsequently, examination revealed that the patient was suffering from a low-frequency, high-amplitude, and posture-induced proximal arm tremor elicited by sustained arm abduction with flexed elbows (wing-beating tremor), which was partially improved by zonisamide treatment. Abnormal expansion of GGC repeats in the NOTCH2NLC gene confirmed the diagnosis of NIID. This case highlights the fact that unilateral wing-beating tremor can be a manifestation of NIID. Zonisamide may be effective for controlling tremors associated with NIID.
Intimal Injury Potentially Plays a Key Role in the Formation of Carotid Artery Dissection: A Novel Animal Model Establishing
Authors: Peng Zheng , Pang Cong , Li Xiao-Jian , Zhang Hua-Sheng , Lu Yue , Zhuang Zong , Gao Yong-Yue , Zhang Bing , Lv Pin , Hang Chun-Hua , Li Wei
Published: July 2023

Research on the pathophysiological mechanism of carotid artery dissection and its clinical translation is limited due to the lack of effective animal models to simulate the occurrence of this condition. Assuming that intimal injury is an important factor in the formation of carotid dissection, we established a novel method for inducing carotid dissection models by scraping the carotid intima using a fine needle. Scraping the carotid intima with fine needles can induce the rapid formation of carotid dissection. Magnetic resonance imaging and hematoxylin-eosin staining suggest the presence of false lumens and mural hematomas in the vessels. Our model-induction technique, inspired by iatrogenic catheter-induced artery dissections (carotid, coronary, aortic), significantly mimics the pathological process of clinical carotid dissection. The results suggest that mechanical injury may be a significant cause of carotid dissection and that intimal injury is a major factor in the formation of arterial dissections. This approach will provide assistance in the understanding of medically induced arterial dissection.
Comparison of Diabetic Retinopathy Lesions Identified Using Ultrawide Field Imaging and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Salongcay Recivall P. , Aquino Lizzie Anne C. , Salva Claude Michael G. , Peto Tunde , Silva Paolo S.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography (OCTA) has the potential to influence the diagnosis and management of diabetic eye disease. This study aims to determine the correlation between diabetic retinopathy (DR) findings on ultrawide field (UWF) color photography (UWF-CP), UWF fluorescein angiography (UWF-FA), and OCTA. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, prospective study. One hundred and fourteen eyes from 57 patients with diabetes underwent mydriatic UWF-CP, UWF-FA, and OCTA. DR severity was assessed. Ischemic areas were identified on UWF-FA using ImageJ and the nonperfusion index (NPI) was calculated. Diabetic macular edema (DME) was assessed using OCT. Superficial capillary plexus vessel density (VD), vessel perfusion (VP), and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area were automatically measured on OCTA. Pearson correlation coefficient between the imaging modalities was determined. Results: Forty-five eyes were excluded due to non-DR findings or prior laser photocoagulation; 69 eyes were analyzed. DR severity was associated with larger NPI (r = 0.55944, p < 0.0001) even after distinguishing between cones (Cone Nonperfusion Index [CPI]: r = 0.55617, p < 0.0001) and rods (Rod Nonperfusion Index [RPI]: r = 0.55285, p < 0.0001). In eyes with nonproliferative DR (NPDR), NPI is correlated with DME (r = 0.51156, p = 0.0017) and central subfield thickness (CST) (r = 0.67496, p < 0.0001). UWF-FA macular nonperfusion correlated with NPI (r = 0.42899, p = 0.0101), CPI (r = 0.50028, p = 0.0022), and RPI (r = 0.49027, p = 0.0028). Central VD and VP correlated with the DME presence (r = 0.52456, p < 0.0001; r = 0.51952, p < 0.0001) and CST (r = 0.50133, p < 0.0001; r = 0.48731, p < 0.0001). Central VD and VP were correlated with macular nonperfusion (r = 0.44503, p = 0.0065; r = 0.44239, p = 0.0069) in eyes with NPDR. Larger FAZ was correlated with decreased central VD (r = −0.60089, p = 0.0001) and decreased central VP (r = −0.59224, p = 0.0001). Conclusion: UWF-CP, UWF-FA, and OCTA findings provide relevant clinical information on diabetic eyes. Nonperfusion on UWF-FA is correlated with DR severity and DME. OCTA metrics of the superficial capillary plexus correlate with the incidence of DME and macular ischemia.
An Unusual Case of Seronegative Cryoglobulinemic Glomerulonephritis with Dominant Organized IgA Deposits Associated with Staphylococcal Infection: Casual or Causal Relationship?
Authors: De La Flor Merino José C. , Apaza Jacqueline , Díaz Francisco , Sandoval Edna , Valga Francisco , Villa Daniel , Marschall Alexander , Abascal María Luisa , Rivas Andrea , Cieza Michael
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Cryoglobulinemia refers to the presence of cryoglobulins (CGs) in the serum, encompassing a group of diseases caused by the type of circulating GC. Cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis (CryoGN) is the principal manifestation of renal involvement. The diagnosis may be challenging because the hallmark of cryoglobulinemia is the detection of CG in the serum. However, cases of CryoGN without serological evidence of CGs are not uncommon in clinical practice, often diagnosed by anatomopathological findings in the renal biopsy. Case Presentation: We report the case of an 86-year-old male who developed renal impairment, nephritic syndrome, and nephrotic-range proteinuria, without serological evidence of CGs, associated with staphylococcal bacteremia without apparent focus. Renal biopsy and pathological examination showed a membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis pattern with CD61-negative pseudothrombi. Immunofluorescence microscopy showed atypical IgA-dominant deposits. Electron microscopy revealed amorphous subendothelial and mesangial deposits and organized electrodense deposits within capillary loops (pseudothrombi) with microtubular substructure measuring 20–40 nm in thickness. These findings were consistent with seronegative CryoGN and microtubular organized atypical IgA-dominant deposits. Discussion: In this report, we discuss the clinical, analytical, and histopathological findings of a rare case of CryoGN without serological evidence of CGs. Regarding the etiology that triggered the glomerular disease in our patient, we conducted an exhaustive study in order to determine the underlying cause of CryoGN. At the time of biopsy, the patient had an active staphylococcal bacteremia. There are reports that postulate that staphylococcal antigens drive activation of immune system and in consequence, could cause this rare form of IgA-dominant glomerulonephritis with cryoglobulinemic features. After ruling out other causes of cryoglobulinemia, we discuss a plausible causal relationship of the staphylococcal infection in the pathogenesis of CryoGN in our patient.
A Novel RNPC3 Gene Variant Expands the Phenotype in Patients with Congenital Hypopituitarism and Neuropathy
Authors: Yavas Abali Zehra , Gokpinar Ili Ezgi , Bas Firdevs , Ulak Ozkan Melis , Gulec Çagrı , Toksoy Guven , Ozturk Ayşe Pinar , Karakilic Ozturan Esin , Aslanger Ayça , Caliskan Mine , Yesil Gozde , Poyrazoglu Sukran , Darendeliler Feyza , Oya Uyguner Zehra
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Pathogenic biallelic RNPC3 variants cause congenital hypopituitarism (CH) with congenital cataracts, neuropathy, developmental delay/intellectual disability, primary ovarian insufficiency, and pituitary hypoplasia. Here, we aimed to evaluate the clinical and molecular characteristics of 2 patients with CH and neuropathy. Materials and Methods: Proband was evaluated by clinical, laboratory, and radiological exams, followed by exome sequencing (ES). Clinical investigation of an affected sibling and variant segregation in the family was performed by Sanger sequencing. A three-dimensional protein model study was conducted to predict the effect of the variant on the function of the RNPC3 peptide. Results: Proband was a 16-month-old girl who was referred for the evaluation of failure to thrive. Her height, weight, and head circumference were 55.8 cm (−7.6 SDS), 6.5 kg (−3.6 SDS), and 41.8 cm (−3.82), respectively. She had a developmental delay and intellectual disability. Central hypothyroidism, growth hormone, and prolactin deficiencies were identified, and MRI revealed pituitary hypoplasia. Electroneuromyography performed for the gait abnormality revealed peripheral neuropathy. A homozygous novel variant c.484C>T/p.(Pro162Ser) in the RNPC3 was detected in the ES. Her brother had the same genotype, and he similarly had pituitary hormone deficiencies with polyneuropathy. Conclusion: Expanding our knowledge of the spectrum of RNPC3 variants, and apprehending clinical and molecular data of additional cases, is decisive for accurate diagnosis and genetic counseling.
Indoor running temporal variability for different running speeds, treadmill inclinations, and three different estimation strategies
Authors: Zignoli Andrea , Godin Antoine , Mourot Laurent
Published: July 2023

Inertial measurement units (IMU) constitute a light and cost-effective alternative to gold-standard measurement systems in the assessment of running temporal variables. IMU data collected on 20 runners running at different speeds (80, 90, 100, 110 and 120% of preferred running speed) and treadmill inclination (±2, ±5, and ±8%) were used here to predict the following temporal variables: stride frequency, duty factor, and two indices of running variability such as the detrended fluctuation analysis alpha (DFA-α) and the Higuchi’s D (HG-D). Three different estimation methodologies were compared: 1) a gold-standard optoelectronic device (which provided the reference values), 2) IMU placed on the runner’s feet, 3) a single IMU on the runner’s thorax used in conjunction with a machine learning algorithm with a short 2-second or a long 120-second window as input. A two-way ANOVA was used to test the presence of significant (p<0.05) differences due to the running condition or to the estimation methodology. The findings of this study suggest that using both IMU configurations for estimating stride frequency can be effective and comparable to the gold-standard. Additionally, the results indicate that the use of a single IMU on the thorax with a machine learning algorithm can lead to more accurate estimates of duty factor than the strategy of the IMU on the feet. However, caution should be exercised when using these techniques to measure running variability indices. Estimating DFA-α from a short 2-second time window was possible only in level running but not in downhill running and it could not accurately estimate HG-D across all running conditions. By taking a long 120-second window a machine learning algorithm could improve the accuracy in the estimation of DFA-α in all running conditions. By taking these factors into account, researchers and practitioners can make informed decisions about the use of IMU technology in measuring running biomechanics.
ABC Sports
Authors: Vogan Travis
Published: July 2023

The American Broadcasting Company division ABC Sports is behind some of network sports television’s most significant practices, personalities, and moments. It created the weekend anthology Wide World of Sports, transformed professional football into a prime-time spectacle with Monday Night Football, and fashioned the Olympics into a mega media event. ABC Sports helped to turn Muhammad Ali, the sportscaster Howard Cosell, and the daredevil Evel Knievel into stars and captured now-iconic instances that include Tommie Smith and John Carlos’s raised fist protest at the 1968 Olympics, the terrorist attacks at the 1972 Munich Games, Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs’s 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match, the U.S. hockey team’s 1980 “Miracle on Ice” victory over the Soviet Union, and the 1999 Women’s World Cup final. Beyond sport, it revolutionized television news and altered the medium’s racial and gender politics. This book offers a cultural and institutional history of ABC Sports from its beginnings to its 2006 rebranding as “ESPN on ABC.” It uses the storied division to examine network sports television’s development in the United States; the aesthetic, cultural, political, and industrial practices that mark it; and the changes it endured, along with the new sports media environment it spawned.
Benders decomposition to accelerate determination of optimal railway intervention programmes
Authors: Mehranfar Hamed , Adey Bryan T , Burkhalter Marcel , Moghtadernejad Saviz
Published: July 2023

An important task of railway asset managers is to develop intervention programmes. These interventions need to be developed considering network-level synergies and constraints, in addition to the condition of the assets and their optimal intervention strategies. Considering these concerns may lead to executing interventions earlier or later than specified in asset intervention strategies to reach optimality. Synergies include the fact that the simultaneous execution of more than one intervention disrupts train movements only once. Constraints include budget limits and not closing parallel lines simultaneously. Although many railway asset managers currently determine intervention programmes in a rather qualitative iterative fashion, there is an increasing interest in exploiting digitalisation to improve the process. This interest has led to a rise in research focused on the development of mixed-integer linear programs to determine optimal programmes more efficiently and effectively. These powerful models, however, still have issues with complicated intervention planning problems, making their use slower than desired. This paper investigates the potential use of Benders decomposition to accelerate the determination of optimal railway intervention programmes for 2.2 km of the Irish Rail network. It is found that the optimal intervention programme is up to 30% faster for the studied example.
Cyber-Physical System Analysis of Communication Networks Utilising Synchrophasors in a Smart Grid
Authors: Gupta Amit
Published: July 2023

The electrical grid is often hailed as one of the 20th century's greatest technical achievements. While it is undeniably a feat of engineering, it is in dire need of updating to keep up with things like two-way dynamic energy management, load balancing, enhanced metering, the incorporation of renewable energy sources, protection and control, etc. The term "Smart Grid" (SG) is used to describe this updated electrical network. Rapid progress in communication technology has made it possible to create the envisioned SG. The SG may be seen as a Cyber Physical System (CPS), with the physical system being the infrastructure of the power grid and the cyber system being the communication and computing technologies, sensors, actuators, etc. A Smart Grid Cyber Physical System (SGCPS) is a CPS-based conceptualization of an SG. CPS technology is expanding rapidly, which has allowed the SG's capabilities to grow even further. In SGCPS in particular, the SG's security and management are tweaked to improve consistency of functioning. With synchrophasor measurement, SG has gained traction from a safety and regulation perspective. The sinusoidal voltage and current of electrical buses in the smart grid may be measured using a time-synchronized phasor measurement called synchrophasor measurement. High-speed sensors, known as Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs), collect the synchrophasor information. The Phasor Data Concentrator (PDC) at the command centre receives the synchrophasor information. Synchrophasor data is sent from PMUs to PDCs through a communication network known as the Synchrophasor Communication Network (SCN), which serves as the backbone of the synchrophasor applications.
Energy-Aware, Self-Contained Nodes for Distributed, Interoperable, and Cross-Domain Internet of Things
Authors: Gupta Amit
Published: July 2023

Numerous vertical platforms are emerging as the backbone of the Internet of Things; these platforms are tailored to a particular use case and typically adopt their own communications, device, and resource management protocols. A unified and secure sharing and access to sensing/actuating resources is made possible via interoperability across IoT platforms, which is becoming more important as the need for cross-domain IoT applications and services grows. This position paper discusses where the Internet of Things (IoT) is at the moment, what potential exist for its sustainable expansion, and what obstacles must be overcome. The goals and vision of the H2020 symbIoTe project are outlined in this context; symbIoTe seeks to facilitate interoperability between IoT platforms by providing a malleable interoperability framework that permits i) cooperation between vertical IoT platforms, ii) the formation of IoT-platform federations for resource sharing, and iii) the development of innovative cross-domain applications by independent developers.
The Role of Chlorella vulgaris in Reducing Some Pharmaceutical Wastes Toxicity in Clam Pseudodontopsis euphraticus
Authors: Obaid Zahraa H. , Kadhim Nuha F. , Salman Jasim Mohammed
Published: July 2023

Applications of microalgae in environmental studies have recently increased. Current uses of immobilized microalga Chlorella vulgaris include reducing pharmaceutical substances such as amoxicillin AMX and potassium dichromate K2Cr2O7 on freshwater clam Pseudodontopsis euphraticus as a biotic model. Recent research pointed out a change in biomarkers of oxidative stress in an evaluation of induced toxicity. Where clams were exposed to different concentrations100, 200, and 400 mg/L for 7 days and 20, 30, and 50 mg/L for 5 days of amoxicillin and potassium dichromate, respectively. The results showed that exposure to AMX and K2Cr2O7 led to a significant change in the activity of antioxidant enzymes, with significant increases (p<0.05) in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The highest ROS value was 51.05 μg/mg under concentrations of 50 mg/L of K2Cr2O7, and the highest recorded percentage of Superoxide Dismutase SOD, Catalase CAT, Malondialdehyde MDA, and Glutathione Reductase GSH, as: 33.40 U/m, 33.32KU/L, 23.22 μmol/l and 21.30µg/g respectively, in concentrations of 50 mg/L of K2Cr2O7 non-treated. It was observed in this study that potassium dichromate was more effective than amoxicillin in causing toxicity. According to the current study, immobilized C. vulgaris was instrumental in decreasing chemicals toxicity, by relieving oxidative stress on P. euphraticus clam, as it recorded a significant decrease p≤ 0.05 in ROS values and oxidizing enzymes such as Superoxide Dismutase SOD, Catalase CAT, Malondialdehyde MDA, as well as ascorbic acid. AA, total protein and GPX in treated samples.
A lipase gene of Thermomyces lanuginosus: sequence analysis and high-efficiency expression in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Li Qi , Song Juan , Yi Le , Feng Xiangyuan , Yang Qi , Xi Guoguo , Zheng Ke , Duan Shengwen , Cheng Lifeng
Published: July 2023

Lipase is a type of enzyme that decomposes and synthesizes triglyceride on hydrophilic and lipophilic interface, which plays an important role in lipid processing. A novel heat-resisting lipase gene (lip4) in Thermomyces lanuginosus was cloned to the expression vector pPICZαA and then transported into Pichia pastoris X33 for high-efficiency expression. The structure of this lipase (Lip4) was analyzed by multiple bioinformatics software. Results showed that the recombinant yeast cell concentration reached the peak at 144h and the lipase activity reached the maximum (3900U/mL) at 168h in the induction. S168, D223 and H280 form the triplet structure of the Lip4 and S168 is also involved in the pentapeptide structure of G166-H167-S168-L169-G170. Furthermore, S168 also constituted the active center of Lip4 with seven other conserved amino acids, such as G104/288, S105, A195, P196, V225, and I287. Specifically, the two α-helices of the lid structure outside the active pocket control the entry of the substrate. Therefore, the eukaryotic system was constructed to express Lip4 efficiently, and the amino acid sites related to the catalytic efficiency of the Lip4 were clarified, providing a theoretical basis for its subsequent property research and industrial application.
Intrapopulational variability and biochemistry of the globally rare species Coleanthus subtilis in response to the sediment parameters
Authors: Dajdok Zygmunt , Polechońska Ludmiła , Gola Edyta , Gleńsk Michał , Samoń Monika , Klink Agnieszka
Published: July 2023

Aims
Coleanthus subtilis is a globally rare or threatened, ephemeral therophyte of exposed bottoms of water reservoirs and riverbanks. Nevertheless, it shows a potential to conquer new areas and dominate in phytocoenoses showing morphological differentiation. The main aim of the study was to reveal the intrapopulational variability of the species in relation to sediment characteristics, ecological preferences in microscale, and allelopathic potential in the context of biochemical composition of its biomass.
Methods
A fishpond with a stable population was selected and data were collected from 107 plots distributed in transects perpendicular to the pond banks; in each plot following parameters were determined: pH, macroelement content in sediments, morphotypes of C. subtilis specimens, species composition of vegetation patches, and ecological indicator values. Collected specimens were used to determine the chemical composition and ecotoxicity.
Results
Morphological variability of C. subtilis is determined by pH and macroelement content of the sediments. Those parameters and values of ecological indicators (moisture, temperature and light) show a link to the composition of vegetation patches and the phytocoenoses with the high abundance of C. subtilis. Capability of C. subtilis to inhibit germination and growth of other species may account for its prevalence in phytocoenoses. Benzoxazinone derivatives, phenolic compounds and carboxylic acids known to be allelochemicals were identified in the species.
Conclusions
Morphological variability of C. subtilis is controlled by pH and nutrient content in sediments and species composition of vegetation patches; allelopathic effect found experimentally may be conditioned by chemical compounds determined in its specimens.
Identification of Historical Textiles via Non-destructive Spectroscopic Analysis and Multivariate Cluster Analysis
Authors: Celani Caelin P. , Degano Ilaria , Chen Carolyn , Jaeger Olivia , Speed Amelia M. , Booksh Karl S. , Alcántara-García Jocelyn
Published: July 2023

One of the foremost challenges facing dye analysis of historical textiles is that the gold standard technique – high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) – is inherently destructive, costly, and relatively few institutions have the necessary equipment and expertise. This is especially problematic considering historical samples are unique, sampling is undesirable, and historical textiles can be exceptionally fragile. One proposed solution to this is the implementation of non-destructive, spectroscopic, techniques, such as Fiber Optic Reflectance Spectroscopy (FORS). In this work, 204 well-provenanced red Norwich textiles were measured with FORS and analyzed, aiming to test if the technique would be able to discern the chromophore combinations / recipes used to dye historical textiles. Cluster analysis algorithms and spectroscopic domain knowledge were coupled with selective HPLC validation to assess overall ability of FORS to identify chromophore combinations. The UV/VIS region, particularly 380-469 nm, showed a narrow visible region that was primarily responsible for clustering behavior that correlates with HPLC-validated samples. In contrast, the near infrared (NIR) region of the spectrum contained little meaningful information in multivariate space. This indicates that FORS shows promise for identifying chromophores in textile samples. Suspecting the observed spectral inflection point shift around 600 nm was correlated to the presence of mordants, complementary X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis was used, with the corresponding statistical treatment, which showed no correlation. From this work, three main conclusions can be drawn: 1) FORS adequately identifies visual information, which shows reasonable correlation to HPLC-validated dye recipes, warranting further investigation, and indicating utility for confirmatory analysis, and strongly suggesting this is a good tool for persons with visual impairments; 2) XRF analysis confirms that ~600 nm inflection point shift and mordant are not correlated when measuring dyed textiles; 3) many documented structural-to-spectral relationships established in the conservation literature are too weak in dyed textiles for statistical analysis and, by extension, expert spectral identification.
Graphical solution of algebraic equations; d'pres Lill
Authors: Nakai Isao
Published: July 2023

Lill's graphical method with a pseudo-billiard to identify the real roots of real algebraic equations provides a fundamental basis for the mathematical theory of paper folding, as beautifully demonstrated in a YouTube video of Polster; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUC-8P0zXe8} uploaded in 2019. In an article, "Polynomials as Polygons" in Math Intelligencer 2017, Tabachinikov rivisits an anonymous paper subsequent toLill's original paper, and explores a graphical approach for identifying the imaginary roots. Guided by the above articles and Horner's method, we naturally consider a polynomial with complex coefficients as a polygonal line in the Argand--Gauss plane and a root of the equation as a string of similar triangles ``reflecting" on the segments of the line, thereby unifying the seemingly disparate geometrical approaches to real and imaginary roots. We also examine the factorization of polynomials and the multiplicity of roots from a graphical viewpoint. For instance, a repeated root of a real cubic equation is a tri-tangent line to a certain three-parabola. This refines the well known classic result of Beloch. In the final section, we discuss a method for identifying real quadratic factors of real polynomicals.
The mechanistic functional landscape of Retinitis Pigmentosa: a Machine Learning driven approach to drug Repurposing.
Authors: Esteban-Medina Marina , Loucera Carlos , Rian Kinza , Velasco Sheyla , Olivares-Gonzalez Lorena , Rodrigo Regina , Dopazo Joaquin , Peña-Chilet Maria
Published: July 2023

Background
Retinitis pigmentosa is the prevailing genetic cause of blindness in developed nations with no effective treatments. In the pursuit of unraveling the intricate dynamics underlying this complex disease, mechanistic models emerge as a tool of proven efficiency rooted in systems biology, to elucidate the interplay between RP genes and their mechanisms. The integration of mechanistic models and drug-target interactions under the umbrella of machine learning methodologies provides a multifaceted approach that can boost the discovery of novel therapeutic targets, facilitating drug repurposing in RP.
Methods
By mapping Retinitis Pigmentosa-related genes (obtained from Orphanet, OMIM and HPO databases) onto KEGG signaling pathways, a collection of signaling functional circuits encompassing Retinitis Pigmentosa molecular mechanisms was defined. Next, a mechanistic model of the so-defined disease map, where the effects of interventions can be simulated, was built. Then, an explainable multi-output random forest regressor was trained using normal tissue transcriptomic data to learn causal connections between targets of approved drugs from DrugBank and the functional circuits of the mechanistic disease map. Selected target genes involvement were validated on rd10 mice, a murine model of Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Results
A mechanistic functional map of Retinitis Pigmentosa was constructed resulting in 226 functional circuits belonging to 40 KEGG signaling pathways. The method predicted 109 targets of approved drugs in use with a potential effect over circuits corresponding to nine hallmarks identified. Six of those targets were selected and experimentally validated in rd10 mice: Gabre, Gabra1, Slc12a5, KCC2, Grin1, Glr2a. As a result, we provide a resource to evaluate drugs with the potential to be repurposed in Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Conclusions
The possibility of building actionable disease models in combination with machine learning algorithms to learn causal drug-disease interactions opens new avenues for boosting drug discovery. Such mechanistically-based hypotheses can guide and accelerate the experimental validations prioritizing target candidates for drug repositioning. In this work, a mechanistic model describing the functional disease map of Retinitis Pigmentosa was developed, identifying six promising target candidates for drug repositioning. Further experimental validation will demonstrate the efficiency of this approach for a systematic application to other rare diseases.
SGIP1 in axons prevents internalization of desensitized CB1R and modifies its function
Authors: Durydivka Oleh , Mackie Ken , Blahos Jaroslav
Published: July 2023

In the central nervous system (CNS), cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) is preferentially expressed in axons where it has a unique property, namely resistance to agonist-driven endocytosis. This review aims to summarize what we know about molecular mechanisms of CB1R cell surface stability in axonal compartments, how these impact CB1R signaling, and to consider their physiological consequences. This review then focuses on a potential candidate for maintaining axonal CB1R at the cell surface, Src homology 3-domain growth factor receptor-bound 2-like endophilin interacting protein 1 (SGIP1). SGIP1 may contribute to the polarized distribution of CB1R and modify its signaling in axons. In addition, deletion of SGIP1 results in discrete behavioral changes in modalities controlled by the endocannabinoid system in vivo. Several drugs acting directly via CB1R have important therapeutic potential, however their adverse effects limit their clinical use. Future studies might reveal chemical approaches to target the SGIP1-CB1R interaction, with the aim to exploit the endocannabinoid system pharmaceutically in a discrete way, with minimized undesired consequences.
Needs and Perceptions of Cooperative Extension Educators Serving Latino Populations in the South
Authors: Herndon Molly , Behnke Andrew , Navrro Maria , Daniel Jenna , Storm Julia
Published: July 2023

A survey of 982 Extension educators from 12 southern states provides a snapshot of their experiences working with Latino communities. The objective of this article was to gather data regarding Extension educators' desire and perceived ability to work with the new Latino audiences in their communities and inform the development of cultural competency training. The rapid growth of the Hispanic population in rural communities in the South has left many Extension offices ill prepared to meet these new clients' needs. Suggestions for helping Extension educators develop effective partnerships and provide bilingual services are discussed.
The Analysis of Factors Influencing on Moral Judgement
Authors: KIM Yong-Soon , PARK Jee-Won , YOO Moon-Sook , KIM Gi-Yon
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine moral judgements by clinical nurses, school nurses, and community nurses and to analyze the factors which influenced their moral judgements. Study data were collected from Aug 13, 1999 to Oct 23， 1999. Study subjects were 150 clinical nurses working in general hospitals, 150 school nurses, and 160 community nurses. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection.
Moral judgement can be classified as ideal or real. This study founds that woiicing area, working field, and autonomy were significantly related to nurses moral judgement. The working area was related to both ideal and real moral judgement. The working period was significantly related to ideal moral judgement. The moral judgement scores of nurses who have worked more than 10 years were higher than for nurses who had worked for less than 10 years. For autonomy variables, real moral judgement score were higher when autonomy was higher. Among demographic variables, age, education level, and locus of health control were related to moral judgement.
From this study the followings are suggested : First, in-service education for nurses who have more than 10 years of work experience needs to be done. Second, after the in-service education for these nurses, the nurses moral judgement needs to be evaluated to ensure effectiveness. Third, environments which increase nurses autonomy needs to be established in nursing practice to lessen ethical dilemmas. Also strategies to increase nurses' autonomy need to be developed.
Towards automatic Maude specifications generation from C functions
Authors: Boutekkouk Fateh
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we aim to contribute to the knowledge about how imperative C functions can be transformed to Maude functional and system modules respectively. Maude is a formal specification language characterized by simplicity, expressivity and good performance. It is a multi-paradigm meta-language based on rewriting logic and equational theories used to specify, simulate and formally verify concurrent and distributed systems. Maude has been used to define the operational semantics of many programming and specification languages. In particular, the addition of this paper is to close the gap between a subset of the C standard language and Maude relying on a transformational approach.
Cheese Price Softening in the U.S.: Determining Effects from Excessive Cheese in the Market
Authors: Wang Zuyi , Tejeda Hernan , Kim Man-Keun , Siu Wai Yan
Published: July 2023

The United States (U.S.) cheese sector has experienced continuous production and consumption growth since the 1990’s with its market characterized as having oligopolistic behavior, signaling that prices respond to supply. Despite the steady industry growth, it experienced a recent multi-year period of declining prices. This paper addresses how growth towards an all-time record surplus of cheese, in response to excess milk production and export drops, weakened U.S. cheese prices. This study finds there is a significant short-run effect on price from overly expanded cheese supply, i.e., specifically taking a 2019 monthly average supply of 2.48 billion pounds, a 10% rise in cheese supply results in an immediate price decrease of 8.7%, translating to an average decline of USD 0.15/pound. The cumulative effect on its price from this 10% change results in a cumulative drop in cheese prices of 18.9%, approximately equal to a decrease of USD 0.34/pound. Findings provide relevant information to cheese, dairy producers and stakeholders, for milk production schedules, risk management and dairy policy analysis.
Transition metal-catalyzed construction of C-X bonds via cleavage of C-N bond of quaternary ammonium salts
Authors: Zeng Qingle , Li Fuhai , Yin Xianjie
Published: July 2023

Amines are abundant in natural product chemistry and are readily available chemical raw materials. The C-N bonds of amines are difficult to break due to the large C-N bond energy. In recent years, chemists have developed a variety of activation methods for amino groups of amines. Among these reported methods, to convert amines into quaternary ammonium salts is preferred, for quaternary ammonium salts are readily available and stable. In recent years, great progress has been achieved in the study of transition metal-catalyzed construction of various C-X bonds involving aromatic amines and benzyl amines-derived quaternary ammonium salts by cleavage of C-N bonds. This review describes the transition metal-catalyzed reaction of quaternary ammonium salts to construct C-X bonds by cleavage of C-N bond. Moreover, if chiral benzylamines-derived quaternary ammonium salts are used, a variety of highly enantiomeric pure chiral organic compounds can also be obtained. The chirality of quaternary ammonium salts remained good in the products and all reactions underwent SN2-type configuration inversion.