bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microfluidic integrated gas sensors for smart analyte detection: a comprehensive review
Authors: Yeganegi Arian , Yazdani Kaveh , Tasnim Nishat , Fardindoost Somayeh , Hoorfar Mina
Published: September 2023

The utilization of gas sensors has the potential to enhance worker safety, mitigate environmental issues, and enable early diagnosis of chronic diseases. However, traditional sensors designed for such applications are often bulky, expensive, difficult to operate, and require large sample volumes. By employing microfluidic technology to miniaturize gas sensors, we can address these challenges and usher in a new era of gas sensors suitable for point-of-care and point-of-use applications. In this review paper, we systematically categorize microfluidic gas sensors according to their applications in safety, biomedical, and environmental contexts. Furthermore, we delve into the integration of various types of gas sensors, such as optical, chemical, and physical sensors, within microfluidic platforms, highlighting the resultant enhancements in performance within these domains.
Shotgun-metagenomics reveals a highly diverse and communal microbial network present in the drains of three beef-processing plants
Authors: Palanisamy Vignesh , Bosilevac Joseph M. , Barkhouse Darryll A. , Velez Sarah E. , Chitlapilly Dass Sapna
Published: September 2023

Background

Multi-species biofilms pose a problem in various environments, especially food-processing environments. The diversity of microorganisms in these biofilms plays a critical role in their integrity and protection against external biotic and abiotic factors. Compared to single-species biofilms, mixed-species biofilms are more resistant to various stresses, including antimicrobials like sanitizers. Therefore, understanding the microbiome composition and diversity in biofilms and their metabolic potential is a priority when developing intervention techniques to combat foodborne pathogens in food processing environments.

Methods

This study aimed to describe and compare the microbiome profile of 75 drain biofilm samples obtained from five different locations (Hotscale, Hotbox, Cooler, Processing, & Grind room) of three beef-processing plants (Plant A, B & C) taken over two timepoints 2017-18 (T1) and 2021 (T2) by shotgun sequencing

Results

Core microbiome analysis found Pseudomonas, Psychrobacter, and Acinetobacter to be the top three prevalent genera among the plants and locations. Alpha diversity analysis demonstrated a high diversity of microbiome present in all the plants and locations across the time points. Functional analysis showed the high metabolic potential of the microbial community with abundance of genes in metabolism, cell-adhesion, motility, and quorum sensing. Moreover, Quaternary Ammonium Compound (QAC) resistance genes were also observed, this is significant as QAC sanitizers are commonly used in many food processing facilities. Multi-functional genes such as transposases, polymerases, permeases, flagellar proteins, and Mobile Genetic Elements (MGEs) were found suggesting these are dynamic microbial communities that work together to protect themselves against environmental stresses through multiple defense mechanisms.

Conclusion

This study provides a framework for understanding the collective microbial network spanning a beef processing system. The results can be used to develop intervention strategies to best control these highly communicative microbial networks.
Characteristics of carbohydrate counting practice associated with adequacy of glycated hemoglobin in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus in Brazil
Authors: Uliana Gabriela Correia , Camara Lediane Nunes , Paracampo Carla Cristina Paiva , da Costa Juliana Carvalho , Gomes Daniela Lopes
Published: September 2023

Background

The Carbohydrate Counting (CC) is directly associated with achieving glycemic control by people with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). Therefore, this study aims to analyze characteristics of the CC practice associated with the adequacy of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in adults with T1DM in Brazil.

Methods

The study was cross-sectional, carried out using an online form with questions about knowledge of CC, clinical, anthropometric, sociodemographic data, follow-up with health professionals and understanding of the concepts of CC. Pearson’s chi-square test and binomial logistic regression analysis (p<0.05) were applied.

Results

173 adults participated, of which 57.2% had increased HbA1c (≥7%). Having the diabetes duration <10 years (p=0.006), performing the CC at lunch (p=0.040) and dinner (p=0.018), using specific applications to perform the CC (p=0.001), having learned to perform CC with a nutritionist (p=0.037) and knowing how to correctly define the concepts of food bolus (p=0.001), correction bolus (p<0.001) and insulin/carbohydrate ratio (p<0.001) was associated with having adequate HbA1c (<7%). Participants who were undergoing CC practice were 3.273 times more likely to have adequate HbA1c and participants with diabetes duration <10 years were 2.686 times more likely to have adequate HbA1c.

Conclusion

It was concluded that variables transversal to CC favor adequate HbA1c values in adults with T1DM and that practicing CC and having a diabetes duration of less than 10 years are predictive factors of having adequate HbA1c.
Prevalence of osteoporosis in patients awaiting unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhuang Zhikun , Huang Changyu , Chen Xianyi , Wei Qiushi , Guo Jinhua , Xu Zhiqing , Wu Rongkai , Wu Zhaoke , Xu Fudong
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Osteoporosis may contribute to failure of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), yet the prevalence of osteoporosis in the population awaiting UKA has not been adequately studied. The objectives of this study were to report the prevalence of osteoporosis in people awaiting UKA and the rate of anti-osteoporosis treatment, and to explore factors associated with osteoporosis prevalence in people awaiting UKA.

Methods

Participants awaiting UKA from January 2019 to May 2023 were consecutively enrolled. Participants ‘ age, gender, BMI, knee K-L score, VAS score, history of previous DXA testing, history of anti-osteoporosis treatment, and possible underlying risk factors were recorded. All participants were given a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) test after the visit. The diagnosis of osteoporosis was made according to the World Health Organization criteria. Compare the prevalence of osteoporosis between people waiting for UKA and the general population. Risk factors associated with osteoporosis were analyzed using multiple linear regression and binary logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 340 participants were included in the study, 259 in female and 81 in male, with a mean age of 63.53 years (range: 41-84 years), and all participants completed UKA and had DXA prior to UKA. The prevalence of osteoporosis was 40.88% (44.79% in female and 28.40% in male). The prevalence of osteoporosis was higher in female than in male (p<0.001). The prevalence of osteoporosis in the population waiting for UKA was significantly higher than that in the general population (p < 0.001). DXA testing was performed in 12.06% within 1 year prior to the visit. The percentage of those who had received anti-osteoporosis treatment was 20.59% (20.86% in osteoporosis, 22.39% in Osteopenia and 16.42% in normal bone mass). The correlation between age, gender, body mass index, visual analogue scale score and osteoporosis was statistically significant.

Conclusion

Osteoporosis is common in people waiting for UKA, but screening and treatment rates are low. Female patients of advanced age and low weight combined with significant pain should be considered for osteoporosis screening and appropriate treatment before UKA.
Machine learning application in modelling marine and coastal phenomena: a critical review
Authors: Pourzangbar Ali , Jalali Mahdi , Brocchini Maurizio
Published: September 2023

This study provides an extensive review of over 200 journal papers focusing on Machine Learning (ML) algorithms’ use for promoting a sustainable management of the marine and coastal environments. The research covers various facets of ML algorithms, including data preprocessing and handling, modeling algorithms for distinct phenomena, model evaluation, and use of dynamic and integrated models. Given that machine learning modeling relies on experience or trial-and-error, examining previous applications in marine and coastal modeling is proven to be beneficial. The performance of different ML methods used to predict wave heights was analyzed to ascertain which method was superior with various datasets. The analysis of these papers revealed that properly developed ML methods could successfully be applied to multiple aspects. Areas of application include data collection and analysis, pollutant and sediment transport, image processing and deep learning, and identification of potential regions for aquaculture and wave energy activities. Additionally, ML methods aid in structural design and optimization and in the prediction and classification of oceanographic parameters. However, despite their potential advantages, dynamic and integrated ML models remain underutilized in marine projects. This research provides insights into ML’s application and invites future investigations to exploit ML’s untapped potential in marine and coastal sustainability.
Stability mechanisms of soft rock mining roadways through roof cutting and pressure relief: an exploratory model experiment
Authors: Zhu Qingwen , Li Tingchun , Lou Qingnan , Liu Yishuai , Li Chunping , Chen Jiangang
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Soft rock mining roadways are severely deformed and damaged during coal mining. Blindly increasing the support strength not only has little effect but also wastes material resources.

Methods

Maintaining the original support parameters, model experiments were conducted to investigate the mechanism of pressure relief protection of the front soft rock mining roadway by cutting the roof behind the longwall face. The roof-cutting height was 2.5 times the coal thickness, the angle was 10°, and the advance distance is 0.

Results

The study found that the abutment stress borne by the roof of the original roadway was transferred to the coal seams to be mined. The average stress of the coal seams increased by 10%, while the average stress of the surrounding rock in the front roadway decreased by 12.57%. The roof cutting weakened the influence of the overlying strata in the gob on the rear roadway. The stability of the rear roadway also weakened the traction effect on the front roadway. The vertical convergence of the front roadway decreased by 27.3%, and the deformation of the coal pillars decreased by 15.7%.

Discussion

The roof cutting reduced the stress of the front roadway to the peak failure stress, fundamentally weakening the main factor that induced the deformation of the front roadway. Numerical simulations were performed to research the deformation and stress distribution properties of the surrounding rock after roof cutting, and the model experimental results were validated. Finally, engineering recommendations are presented, which are expected to provide a reference for controlling the roadway stability of soft rock masses.
The immune checkpoint adenosine 2A receptor is associated with aggressive clinical outcomes and reflects an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in human breast cancer
Authors: Zohair Basma , Chraa Dounia , Rezouki Ibtissam , Benthami Hamza , Razzouki Ibtissam , Elkarroumi Mohamed , Olive Daniel , Karkouri Mehdi , Badou Abdallah
Published: September 2023

Background

The crosstalk between the immune system and cancer cells has aroused considerable interest over the past decades. To escape immune surveillance cancer cells evolve various strategies orchestrating tumor microenvironment. The discovery of the inhibitory immune checkpoints was a major breakthrough due to their crucial contribution to immune evasion. The A2AR receptor represents one of the most essential pathways within the TME. It is involved in several processes such as hypoxia, tumor progression, and chemoresistance. However, its clinical and immunological significance in human breast cancer remains elusive.

Methods

The mRNA expression and protein analysis were performed by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry. The log-rank (Mantel-Cox) test was used to estimate Kaplan-Meier analysis for overall survival. Using large-scale microarray data (METABRIC), digital cytometry was conducted to estimate cell abundance. Analysis was performed using RStudio software (7.8 + 2023.03.0) with EPIC, CIBERSORT, and ImmuneCellAI algorithms. Tumor purity, stromal and immune scores were calculated using the ESTIMATE computational method. Finally, analysis of gene set enrichment (GSEA) and the TISCH2 scRNA-seq database were carried out.

Results

Gene and protein analysis showed that A2AR was overexpressed in breast tumors and was significantly associated with high grade, elevated Ki-67, aggressive molecular and histological subtypes, as well as poor survival. On tumor infiltrating immune cells, A2AR was found to correlate positively with PD-1 and negatively with CTLA-4. On the other hand, our findings disclosed more profuse infiltration of protumoral cells such as M0 and M2 macrophages, Tregs, endothelial and exhausted CD8+ T cells within A2ARhigh tumors. According to the Single-Cell database, A2AR is expressed in malignant, stromal and immune cells. Moreover, it is related to tumor purity, stromal and immune scores. Our results also revealed that CD8+T cells from A2ARhigh patients exhibited an exhausted functional profile. Finally, GSEA analysis highlighted the association of A2AR with biological mechanisms involved in tumor escape and progression.

Conclusion

The present study is the first to elucidate the clinical and immunological relevance of A2AR in breast cancer patients. In light of these findings, A2AR could be deemed a promising therapeutic target to overcome immune evasion prevailing within the TME of breast cancer patients.
Influence of genetically predicted autoimmune diseases on NAFLD
Authors: Xu Min , Wu Tong , Li Zhaoxia , Xin Guijie
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the emerging cause of end-stage liver disease, is the most common liver disease. Determining the independent risk factors of NAFLD and patients who need more monitoring is important.

Methods

Two-Sample Mendelian randomization (MR) was performed in the analysis to investigate the causal association of different autoimmune diseases with NAFLD using summary level data. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 5 autoimmune diseases including celiac disease (CeD), Crohn’s disease (CD), multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and type 1 diabetes (T1D) were selected for Instrument variables (IVs). NAFLD was included as outcome.

Result

After adjusting for confounding factors, genetic predisposition of CeD (OR= 0.973, [0.949,0.997], IVW p-value=0.026), MS (OR= 1.048, [1.012,1.085], IVW p-value= 0.008), RA (OR= 1.036, [1.006,1.066], IVW p-value=0.019), T1D (OR= 1.039, [1.002,1.079], IVW p-value= 0.041) is causally associated with NAFLD. No causal effect was found between CD and NAFLD.

Conclusion

CeD itself may be a protective factor for NAFLD, the results of previous observational studies have been influenced by confounding factors, and the morbidity of NAFLD may be higher in patients with MS, RA, and T1D than in common populations, and monitoring the prevalence of NAFLD in these populations is considerable.
CCHFV vaccine development, current challenges, limitations, and future directions
Authors: Ahata Büşra , Akçapınar Günseli Bayram
Published: September 2023

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is the most prevalent tick-borne viral disease affecting humans. The disease is life-threatening in many regions of the developing world, including Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. In line with the rapidly increasing disease prevalence, various vaccine strategies are under development. Despite a large number of potential vaccine candidates, there are no approved vaccines as of yet. This paper presents a detailed comparative analysis of current efforts to develop vaccines against CCHFV, limitations associated with current efforts, and future research directions.
Structural biology of complement receptors
Authors: Santos-López Jorge , de la Paz Karla , Fernández Francisco J. , Vega M. Cristina
Published: September 2023

The complement system plays crucial roles in a wide breadth of immune and inflammatory processes and is frequently cited as an etiological or aggravating factor in many human diseases, from asthma to cancer. Complement receptors encompass at least eight proteins from four structural classes, orchestrating complement-mediated humoral and cellular effector responses and coordinating the complex cross-talk between innate and adaptive immunity. The progressive increase in understanding of the structural features of the main complement factors, activated proteolytic fragments, and their assemblies have spurred a renewed interest in deciphering their receptor complexes. In this review, we describe what is currently known about the structural biology of the complement receptors and their complexes with natural agonists and pharmacological antagonists. We highlight the fundamental concepts and the gray areas where issues and problems have been identified, including current research gaps. We seek to offer guidance into the structural biology of the complement system as structural information underlies fundamental and therapeutic research endeavors. Finally, we also indicate what we believe are potential developments in the field.
Serum pro-inflammatory biomarkers associated with improvement in quality of life in pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Carreto-Binaghi Laura E. , Sartillo-Mendoza Luis Gustavo , Muñoz-Torrico Marcela , Guzmán-Beltrán Silvia , Carranza Claudia , Torres Martha , González Yolanda , Juárez Esmeralda
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Pulmonary dysfunction is an underestimated complication in tuberculosis (TB) infection, affecting quality of life (QoL). Although respiratory function tests objectively reflect lung disturbances in a specific moment, predictors of illness severity at the time of diagnosis are still lacking.

Methods

We measured serum pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-8), eicosanoids (PGE2, LTB4, RvD1, Mar1, and LXA4), a marker of tissue damage (cell-free nucleosomes), and indicators of redox status (malonaldehyde, 8-isoprostane, total oxidants, and antioxidants), as well as a score of radiological abnormalities (SRA) and a QoL questionnaire, in 25 patients with pulmonary TB at the time of diagnosis (t0) and two months after the initiation of treatment (t2).

Results

We found higher antioxidant levels in the patients with the worst QoL at t0, and all the indicators of the prooxidant state were significantly reduced at t2, while the total antioxidant levels increased. LTB4, a pro-inflammatory eicosanoid, was diminished at t2, while all the pro-resolutory lipids decreased substantially. Significant correlations between the SRA and the QoL scores were observed, the latter showing a substantial reduction at t2, ranking it as a reliable tool for monitoring disease evolution during TB treatment.

Discussion

These results suggest that evaluating a combination of these markers might be a valuable predictor of QoL improvement and a treatment response indicator; in particular, the oxidation metabolites and eicosanoid ratios could also be proposed as a future target for adjuvant therapies to reduce inflammation-associated lung injury in TB disease.
Multi-omics analysis reveals the association between elevated KIF18B expression and unfavorable prognosis, immune evasion, and regulatory T cell activation in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Tang Siqi , Wu Zhenyu , Chen Lusi , She Longjiang , Zuo Weihan , Luo Weijun , Zhang Yang , Liang Shaoqiang , Liu Guichao , He Biyi , He Jinfeng , Zhang Ning
Published: September 2023

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is prevalent in Southern China. The expression profile and functions of kinesin family member 18B (KIF18B) remain unclear in NPC.

Methods

Bulk and single-cell transcriptome data for NPC were downloaded. KIF18B expression differences in NPC and normal tissues and its prognostic value were validated by immunohistochemistry and Cox model. We performed multi-faceted functional enrichment analysis on KIF18B. Immune infiltration was analyzed comprehensively by the CIBERSORT, EPIC, and quanTIseq algorithms and the BisqueRNA package and confirmed by immunofluorescence assay. The intercellular communication were investigated by the CellChat package. We explored the dynamics of KIF18B expression by pseudotime trajectory. M6A modification analysis rely on SRAMP platform. The treatment response were evaluated by Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) score, immunophenoscore and IC50 value.

Results

KIF18B overexpression in NPC led to unfavorable prognosis, and significantly associated with advanced T, N, and stage classifications. Functional analysis demonstrated that KIF18B was involved in immune suppression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and therapeutic responses. The deconvolution algorithm indicated that activated regulatory T cells (Tregs) had the strongest positive correlation with KIF18B among immune cells (R = 0.631). Validated by immunofluorescence assay, the high KIF18B expression group displayed a notable rise in Tregs infiltration, accompanied by a substantial decrease in the infiltration of CD8+ T cells and macrophages. In the intercellular communication network, malignant cells with high KIF18B expression implicated in more interactions, and activated and recruited Tregs by modulating cytokines, chemokines, and immune checkpoints. KIF18B was upregulated in more advanced malignant cells and influenced EMT by regulating ITGA6, VIM, and ZEB1/2. KIF18B expression was positively related to m6A “writer” and “reader” genes, and negatively related to “eraser” genes. The KIF18B high expression group exhibited a higher TIDE score and elevated IC50 values for the commonly used chemotherapy drugs, gemcitabine, oxaliplatin, and 5-fluorouracil.

Conclusion

KIF18B is a significant prognostic marker in NPC, and may modulate immune evasion and EMT. M6A modification may account for the aberrant overexpression of KIF18B in NPC. Furthermore, KIF18B may predict response to immunotherapy and chemotherapy.
Predicting the interannual variability of the subtropical high over the western Pacific Ocean based on the improved information diffusion model
Authors: Hong Mei , Shi Jian , Zhang Yongchui , Guo Zilong , Qian Longxia
Published: September 2023

Because of its special location and structure, the Western Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) influences greatly the climate and weather in East Asia, especially the summer precipitation. To clarify how the interannual variability (IAV) of the WPSH is related to anomalies in the tropical sea surface temperature (SST) and atmospheric circulation, time series of the intensity index of the WPSH are subjected to wavelet analysis, showing IAV in the index. Characteristic indexes are defined for three key sea areas and the equatorial-latitude westerly region. After a continuous wavelet transform, the oscillation period of them is similar to that of the WPSH. The cross-wavelet transform of the four regional and two WPSH indexes is used to obtain the corresponding time-delay correlation. Regarding the potential correlation, WPSH weakening leads to strengthening of the westerly wind and then affects the rise of SST in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. At the same time, warm water moves eastward. This gradually increases the SST in the equatorial central Pacific and warm pool area and then strengthens the WPSH under the action of the Hadley circulation. From the above analysis, a model for predicting the IAV of the WPSH intensity index is established based on the information diffusion model improved by a genetic algorithm. An experiment is conducted to predict the IAV of the WPSH intensity index, and the results show that the prediction model is accurate in predicting the IAV trend, with good prediction for 84 months. The mean absolute percentage error is 14.44% and the correlation coefficient is 0.8507. Also, the normal and abnormal years of the WPSH are used as different starting points for different prediction experiments. However, the different starting points have little influence on the predictions, showing the stability of the model. Studying the IAV of the WPSH provides a strong theoretical and scientific basis for predicting its abnormal interannual behavior and offers the prospect of socially important disaster prevention and mitigation.
A multicenter retrospective study of patients treated in the thalamus with responsive neurostimulation
Authors: Fields Madeline C. , Eka Onome , Schreckinger Cristina , Dugan Patricia , Asaad Wael F. , Blum Andrew S. , Bullinger Katie , Willie Jon T. , Burdette David E. , Anderson Christopher , Quraishi Imran H. , Gerrard Jason , Singh Anuradha , Lee Kyusang , Yoo Ji Yeoun , Ghatan Saadi , Panov Fedor , Marcuse Lara V.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

For drug resistant epilepsy patients who are either not candidates for resective surgery or have already failed resective surgery, neuromodulation is a promising option. Neuromodulatory approaches include responsive neurostimulation (RNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and vagal nerve stimulation (VNS). Thalamocortical circuits are involved in both generalized and focal onset seizures. This paper explores the use of RNS in the centromedian nucleus of the thalamus (CMN) and in the anterior thalamic nucleus (ANT) of patients with drug resistant epilepsy.

Methods

This is a retrospective multicenter study from seven different epilepsy centers in the United States. Patients that had unilateral or bilateral thalamic RNS leads implanted in the CMN or ANT for at least 6 months were included. Primary objectives were to describe the implant location and determine changes in the frequency of disabling seizures at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and > 2 years. Secondary objectives included documenting seizure free periods, anti-seizure medication regimen changes, stimulation side effects, and serious adverse events. In addition, the global clinical impression scale was completed.

Results

Twelve patients had at least one lead placed in the CMN, and 13 had at least one lead placed in the ANT. The median baseline seizure frequency was 15 per month. Overall, the median seizure reduction was 33% at 6 months, 55% at 1 year, 65% at 2 years, and 74% at >2 years. Seizure free intervals of at least 3 months occurred in nine patients. Most patients (60%, 15/25) did not have a change in anti-seizure medications post RNS placement. Two serious adverse events were recorded, one related to RNS implantation. Lastly, overall functioning seemed to improve with 88% showing improvement on the global clinical impression scale.

Discussion

Meaningful seizure reduction was observed in patients who suffer from drug resistant epilepsy with unilateral or bilateral RNS in either the ANT or CMN of the thalamus. Most patients remained on their pre-operative anti-seizure medication regimen. The device was well tolerated with few side effects. There were rare serious adverse events. Most patients showed an improvement in global clinical impression scores.
Assessment of factors influencing glymphatic activity and implications for clinical medicine
Authors: Gędek Adam , Koziorowski Dariusz , Szlufik Stanisław
Published: September 2023

The glymphatic system is a highly specialized fluid transport system in the central nervous system. It enables the exchange of the intercellular fluid of the brain, regulation of the movement of this fluid, clearance of unnecessary metabolic products, and, potentially, brain immunity. In this review, based on the latest scientific reports, we present the mechanism of action and function of the glymphatic system and look at the role of factors influencing its activity. Sleep habits, eating patterns, coexisting stress or hypertension, and physical activity can significantly affect glymphatic activity. Modifying them can help to change lives for the better. In the next section of the review, we discuss the connection between the glymphatic system and neurological disorders. Its association with many disease entities suggests that it plays a major role in the physiology of the whole brain, linking many pathophysiological pathways of individual diseases.
Case Report: Response to ipilimumab and nivolumab in a patient with adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Charles Rebecca , Madhu Divine , Powles Alexander , Boyde Adam , Hughes Owen , Kumar Nagappan , Moorcraft Sing Yu
Published: September 2023

Background

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignancy with limited treatment options. The evidence for the use of immunotherapy in ACC has been conflicting, with overall response rates ranging from 6 – 33%.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 32 year old patient who was initially thought to have an inoperable clear cell renal cell carcinoma and was treated with immunotherapy with ipilimumab and nivolumab. The patient had an excellent partial response to treatment. Further work-up prior to consideration of surgery demonstrated that the tumour was an ACC, rather than a renal cancer. She had a right adrenalectomy and right hepatectomy, achieving an R0 resection and remains disease-free one year after surgery.

Conclusion

This case illustrates the challenge of diagnosing ACC, and that doublet immunotherapy with ipilimumab and nivolumab can have significant clinical efficacy in ACC.
Progress in investigating the relationship between Schlafen5 genes and malignant tumors
Authors: Tu Teng , Yuan Ye , Liu Xiaoxue , Liang Xin , Yang Xiaofan , Yang Yue
Published: September 2023

The Schlafen5(SLFN5)gene belongs to the third group of the Schlafen protein family. As a tumor suppressor gene, SLFN5 plays a pivotal role in inhibiting tumor growth, orchestrating cell cycle regulation, and modulating the extent of cancer cell infiltration and metastasis in various malignancies. However, the high expression of SLFN 5 in some tumors was positively correlated with lymph node metastasis, tumor stage, and tumor grade. This article endeavors to elucidate the reciprocal relationship between the SLFN5 gene and malignant tumors, thereby enhancing our comprehension of the intricate mechanisms underlying the SLFN5 gene and its implications for the progression, invasive potential, and metastatic behavior of malignant tumors. At the same time, this paper summarizes the basis of SLFN 5 as a new biomarker of tumor diagnosis and prognosis, and provides new ideas for the target treatment of tumor.
Foliar transcriptomes reveal candidate genes for late blight resistance in cultivars of diploid potato Solanum tuberosum L. Andigenum Group
Authors: De la Cruz Germán , Blas Raúl , Pérez Willmer , Neyra Edgar , Ortiz Rodomiro
Published: September 2023

Characterization of major resistance (R) genes to late blight (LB) –caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans– is very important for potato breeding. The objective of this study was to identify novel genes for resistance to LB from diploid Solanum tuberosum L. Andigenum Group (StAG) cultivar accessions. Using comparative analysis with a edgeR bioconductor package for differential expression analysis of transcriptomes, two of these accessions with contrasting levels of resistance to LB were analyzed using digital gene expression data. As a result, various differentially expressed genes (P ≤ 0.0001, Log2FC ≥ 2, FDR < 0.001) were noted. The combination of transcriptomic analysis provided 303 candidate genes that are overexpressed and underexpressed, thereby giving high resistance to LB. The functional analysis showed differential expression of R genes and their corresponding proteins related to disease resistance, NBS-LRR domain proteins, and specific disease resistance proteins. Comparative analysis of specific tissue transcriptomes in resistant and susceptible genotypes can be used for rapidly identifying candidate R genes, thus adding novel genes from diploid StAG cultivar accessions for host plant resistance to P. infestans in potato.
Phylogenetic and functional analysis of cyanobacterial Cytochrome c6-like proteins
Authors: Torrado Alejandro , Iniesta-Pallarés Macarena , Velázquez-Campoy Adrián , Álvarez Consolación , Mariscal Vicente , Molina-Heredia Fernando P.
Published: September 2023

All known photosynthetic cyanobacteria carry a cytochrome c6 protein that acts transferring electrons from cytochrome b6f complex to photosystem I, in photosynthesis, or cytochrome c oxidase, in respiration. In most of the cyanobacteria, at least one homologue to cytochrome c6 is found, the so-called cytochrome c6B or cytochrome c6C. However, the function of these cytochrome c6-like proteins is still unknown. Recently, it has been proposed a common origin of these proteins as well as the reclassification of the cytochrome c6C group as c6B, renaming the new joint group as cytochrome c6BC. Another homologue to cytochrome c6 has not been classified yet, the formerly called cytochrome c6-3, which is present in the heterocyst-forming filamentous cyanobacteria Nostoc sp. PCC 7119. In this work, we propose the inclusion of this group as an independent group in the genealogy of cytochrome c6-like proteins with significant differences from cytochrome c6 and cytochrome c6BC, with the proposed name cytochrome c6D. To support this proposal, new data about phylogeny, genome localisation and functional properties of cytochrome c6-like proteins is provided. Also, we have analysed the interaction of cytochrome c6-like proteins with cytochrome f by isothermal titration calorimetry and by molecular docking, concluding that c6-like proteins could interact with cytochrome b6f complex in a similar fashion as cytochrome c6. Finally, we have analysed the reactivity of cytochrome c6-like proteins with membranes enriched in terminal oxidases of cyanobacteria by oxygen uptake experiments, concluding that cytochrome c6D is able to react with the specific copper-oxidase of the heterocysts, the cytochrome c oxidase 2.
Transcriptomic and physiological approaches to decipher cold stress mitigation exerted by brown-seaweed extract application in tomato
Authors: Borella Matteo , Baghdadi Ali , Bertoldo Giovanni , Della Lucia Maria Cristina , Chiodi Claudia , Celletti Silvia , Deb Saptarathi , Baglieri Andrea , Zegada-Lizarazu Walter , Pagani Elena , Monti Andrea , Mangione Francesca , Magro Francesco , Hermans Christian , Stevanato Piergiorgio , Nardi Serenella
Published: September 2023

Chilling temperatures represent a challenge for crop species originating from warm geographical areas. In this situation, biostimulants serve as an eco-friendly resource to mitigate cold stress in crops. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an economically important vegetable crop, but quite sensitive to cold stress, which it encounters in both open field and greenhouse settings. In this study, the biostimulant effect of a brown-seaweed extract (BSE) has been evaluated in tomato exposed to low temperature. To assess the product effects, physiological and molecular characterizations were conducted. Under cold stress conditions, stomatal conductance, net photosynthesis, and yield were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher in BSE-treated plants compared to the untreated ones. A global transcriptomic survey after BSE application revealed the impact of the BSE treatment on genes leading to key responses to cold stress. This was highlighted by the significantly enriched GO categories relative to proline (GO:0006560), flavonoids (GO:0009812, GO:0009813), and chlorophyll (GO:0015994). Molecular data were integrated by biochemical analysis showing that the BSE treatment causes greater proline, polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and carotenoids contents.The study highlighted the role of antioxidant molecules to enhance tomato tolerance to low temperature mediated by BSE-based biostimulant.
Overwintering performance of bamboo leaves, and establishment of mathematical model for the distribution and introduction prediction of bamboos
Authors: Wu Yufang , Li Jing , Yu Lixia , Wang Shuguang , Lv Zhuo , Long Hao , Zhai Jingyu , Lin Shuyan , Meng Yong , Cao Zhihua , Sun Hui
Published: September 2023

Bamboo has great economic values and is used extensively in many industries, and their natural distribution range was divided into 12 zones in China according to the temperature of their geographical distribution in previous works. Different bamboo species had significantly different abilities in low-temperature tolerance, which need to be considered carefully during ex-situ introduction. In this paper, we observed and evaluated the low-temperature damage of 19 bamboo species in winter, and measured the physiological changes of bamboo leaves. A total of 3060 leaf samples were obtained from 102 core collections in 34 bamboo species from the 5 regions of Chinese mainland for anatomical comparison, in order to screen out the key anatomical indicators related to their low-temperature tolerance and to establish a mathematical prediction model for bamboo introduction. The results showed that the low-temperature resistance of clustered bamboos was generally lower than that of the scattered bamboos. The decreased temperature led to the constant decrease of net photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate, but the increase of soluble sugar content in all bamboo species. There was no dormancy for all bamboo species in winter. The temperate bamboos showed lower photosynthesis as compared to tropical bamboos in winter. The leaf shape of bamboos was closely related to their distribution. A total of 13 leaf indicators were screened and more suitable to estimate the low-temperature tolerant abilities of bamboos and to predict their distribution. The MNLR (multiple nonlinear regression) mathematical model showed the highest fitting degree and the optimal prediction ability in the potential northernmost introduction range of bamboos. This study lay a foundation for bamboo introduction, and could also reduce the economic losses caused by the wrong introduction.
Effect of adjuvants on physicochemical properties of lime sulfur on flower/paraffin and application on flower thinning
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Liu Yang , Wu Changjie , Zhao Rui , Li Minghua , Cai Jing , Ma Li , He Xiongkui , Wu Xuemin , Zhenhua Zhang
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Adjuvants can effectively enhance the utilization rate of pesticides, but the application of adjuvants in plant growth regulators is rarely studied.

Methods

This work explored the effects of adjuvants dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt (AOT) and methyl oleate (MO) on lime sulfur (LS), especially the drop behavior on flower and paraffin surface.

Results

The results showed that the addition of AOT and AOT+MO can significantly reduce the static and dynamic surface tension of LS from 72mN/m to 28mN/m and 32mN/m respectively, and increase the spreading factor from 0.18 to 1.83 and 3.10 respectively, reduce the bounce factor from 2.72 to 0.37 and 0.27 respectively. The fluorescence tracer test showed that the addition of adjuvants could promote the spreading and permeation of droplets. The field test results revealed that the flower thinning rate of adjuvant and non-adjuvant were 80.55% and 54.4% respectively, and the flower thinning effect of adding adjuvant was the same as that of artificial which the flower thinning rate was 84.77%. The quality of apples treated with adjuvants was similar to that treated with artificial, and the weight of single fruit increased by 24.08% compared with CK (spray water).

Discussion

The application of tank-mixture adjuvant could reduce the dosage of LS for thinning agent application, improve apple’s quality, and decrease labor cost and improve the economic benefits of fruit planting and the environmental benefits of plant growth regulators.
The effectiveness of trauma-informed youth justice: a discussion and review
Authors: Day Andrew , Malvaso Catia , Boyd Carolyn , Hawkins Katherine , Pilkington Rhiannon
Published: September 2023

Youth justice services around the world are under increasing pressure to find new and more effective ways of working with young people. One way forward is to implement a more compassionate approach to service delivery that embraces the idea of ‘trauma-informed practice’. And yet, substantial variation has been observed in how a trauma-informed approach has been defined and understood by practitioners, with idiosyncratic implementation evident across different systems and only limited evidence that this results in reductions in subsequent re-offending. In this paper we argue that the success of efforts to work in more trauma-informed ways cannot be judged using recidivism data alone and that there is a need to identify key indicators of the effectiveness of any trauma- informed approach. We present the case for implementing trauma-informed youth justice and outline key features of the approach. We then present a logic model that articulates key components and identifies short- and longer-term outcomes that can be measured to assess the overall performance of a service. The article concludes with a discussion of the current evidential status of trauma-informed youth justice, identifying areas of current strength and those where further work is needed to develop the evidence base, including the need to demonstrate the hypothesized association between short-term trauma-informed practice outcomes and the longer-term goal of preventing re-offending.
The first Portuguese Open Dialogue pilot project intervention
Authors: Tavares Sofia , Ribeiro Joana , Graça Sofia , Araújo Bruna , Puchivailo Mariana , Pereira João G.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

In 2020, the Directorate General of Health (DGS), a central service of the Ministry of Health in Portugal, approved and co-financed the first Open Dialogue program in the country. The present report aims to demonstrate the preliminary results of the first year of the project, implemented in the northern interior region of Alentejo.

Methods

Seven people at the Center of Concern (PCC) and 21 family members/social networks received care through Open Dialogue; four external social workers and psychologists were also involved in the project as members of the support network. A total of 160 network meetings were undertaken, reaching as many as 27 per month in the busiest periods. Based on a previous Italian Research Protocol, developed by Pocobello et al. (non-published manuscript), quantitative and qualitative data were collected in and after the clinical meetings involving PCC and their family/social network, through a multi-method approach: clinical history interview (e.g., generic research on sociodemographic data, duration of untreated symptoms, reasons for requesting help, possible hospitalizations, and/or treatments/therapies) and the following scales applied every five sessions (e.g., CORE-OM, BSI, GAF, and LSNS-6).

Results

The preliminary results indicate an improvement in global functioning and the enlargement of social network size/support, a decrease in symptoms, and a negative correlation between the number of sessions and the LSNS6. Medication use remained largely unchanged at the end of the project.

Discussion

In general, even with a small sample, the results are considered satisfactory and seem to be aligned with the vast majority of Open Dialogue studies, which for several decades have consistently pointed toward better recovery rates than treatment as usual as well as increased client satisfaction. We expect that the results presented can boost further research and help strengthen the OD approach.
Analyzing Chinese parents' and teachers' perception of play, children's emotional needs and therapy: implications for seeking help
Authors: Cao Huiting
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Before going through play therapy with children, parents' consent is usually needed. Thus, Parents' perception of play therapy can be a very important variable that influences the extent to which children are exposed to play therapy. Previous research has demonstrated the significant influence of social-cultural factors on people's perceptions of play therapy. This may in turn influence parents' decision about whether their children will participate in play therapy. This study explores the factors that influence Chinese parents' decisions on their children's engagement in play therapy from a social-cultural perspective.

Methods

This small-scale research includes the following: a questionnaire with 16 parents; three one-to-one semi-structured interviews with three parents; and one focus group with 3 teachers.

Results

The results showed that Chinese parents' perceptions of therapy are mostly negative, which may reduce the desire of parents to let their children become involved with play therapy. The children's academic stress and the parents' economic pressures indicate a barrier for families to commit time and money to play therapy. Parents' confidence in their ability to recognize children's emotions, their lack of knowledge about play therapy, and the process of obtaining help from mental health services for children could be another barriers preventing engagement with play therapy.

Discussions

Even though the research is conducted with a very limited sample size and the results cannot represent the wider population, this research provides some insights into this issue that can be explored in detail in future research, to re-evaluate the results and form a more concrete theory within a wider population in China.
Case report: A case of complete resolution of obstructive and central sleep apnea with Cheyne Stokes breathing in a patient with heart failure 60 days post-left ventricular assist device implantation
Authors: Mashaqi Saif , William Michael , Quan Stuart F. , Combs Daniel , Estep Lauren , Patel Salma I. , Sahni Jyotsna , Parthasarathy Sairam
Published: September 2023

Sleep-disordered breathing (obstructive and central sleep apnea) are common in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Herein, we report a 69-year-old patient with a history of severe heart failure and refractory ventricular arrhythmia who was diagnosed with a moderate degree of obstructive and central sleep apnea with Cheyne Stokes breathing. He underwent a successful implantation of left ventricular assist device. Our patient had a complete resolution of both obstructive and central sleep apnea 60 days post-LVAD implantation as confirmed by home sleep apnea test.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Adaptive Image Restoration Techniques in the Presence of Different Noise Models
Authors: Khan Adnan , Alam Imtiaz , Khan Muhammad Fawad , Ahmed Ibtihaj , Islam Zain Ul , Azam Muhammad , Akhtar Awais
Published: September 2023

Any deprivation caused in the image signal can be thought as a noise. When any image signal is routed through wireless or wired medium it experiences deterioration because of channel characteristics. By knowing the type of noise interfered in the signal, we can use the pertinent filtering techniques to remove the noise from the image. Restoration of the image signal corrupted by noise is very essential for better communication. This paper provides the digital image handling techniques in MATLAB to restore the corrupted image. In this paper, different filtering methods have been discussed in the presence of two separate noise models that distort images. Four different  techniques of filtering, ‘Mean/Average filtering', 'Median filtering', 'Adaptive median filtering' and 'Image Averaging' have been chosen against selected noise models. At the end of the paper we will compare which filtering technique works best for removing a particular noise.