bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Evaluation of Lipid Profile Changes in Olympic Athletes
Authors: Di Gioia Giuseppe , Buzzelli Lorenzo , Maestrini Viviana , Squeo Maria Rosaria , Lemme Erika , Monosilio Sara , Serdoz Andrea , Fiore Roberto , Zampaglione Domenico , Segreti Andrea , Pelliccia Antonio
Published: June 2024

Dyslipidemia is a major contributor to the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Despite high level of physical activity, athletes are not immune from dyslipidemia, but longitudinal data on the variation of lipids are currently lacking. We sought to assess lipid profile changes over time in Olympic athletes practicing different sports disciplines (power, skills, endurance, and mixed). We enrolled 957 consecutive athletes evaluated from London 2012 to Beijing 2022 Olympic Games. Dyslipidemia was defined as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ≥115 mg/dl, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) <40 mg/dl for males, or HDL <50 mg/dl for females. Hypertriglyceridemia was defined as triglycerides >150 mg/dl. At the follow-up, a variation of ±40 mg/dl for LDL, ±6 mg/dl for HDL, and ±50 mg/dl for triglycerides was considered relevant. Athletes with follow-up <10 months or taking lower lipid agents were excluded. Follow-up was completed in 717 athletes (74.9%), with a mean duration of 55.6 months. Mean age was 27.2 ± 4.8 years old, 54.6% were male (n = 392). Overall, 19.8% (n = 142) athletes were dyslipidemic at both blood tests, being older, practicing nonendurance sports, and predominantly male. In 69.3% (n = 129) of those with elevated LDL at t0, altered values were confirmed at follow-up, while the same occurred in 36.5% (n = 15) with hypo-HDL and 5.3% (n = 1) in those with elevated triglycerides. Weight and fat mass percentage modifications did not affect lipid profile variation. LDL hypercholesterolemia tends to persist over time especially among male, older, and nonendurance athletes. LDL hypercholesterolemia detection in athletes should prompt early preventive intervention to reduce the risk of future development of atherosclerotic disease.
Exogenous putrescine plays a switch-like influence on the pH stress adaptability of biofilm-based activated sludge
Authors: Jiang Guanyu , Wang Can , Wang Yongchao , Wang Jiayi , Xue Yimei , Lin Yuting , Hu Xurui , Lv Yahui
Published: June 2024

Microbial community adaptability to pH stress plays a crucial role in biofilm formation. This study aims to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of exogenous putrescine on pH stress, as well as enhance understanding and application for the technical measures and molecular mechanisms of biofilm regulation. Findings demonstrated that exogenous putrescine acted as a switch-like distributor affecting microorganism pH stress, thus promoting biofilm formation under acid conditions while inhibiting it under alkaline conditions. As pH decreases, the protonation degree of putrescine increases, making putrescine more readily adsorbed. Protonated exogenous putrescine could increase cell membrane permeability, facilitating its entry into the cell. Subsequently, putrescine consumed intracellular H
+
by enhancing the glutamate-based acid resistance strategy and the γ-aminobutyric acid metabolic pathway to reduce acid stress on cells. Furthermore, putrescine stimulated ATPase expression, allowing for better utilization of energy in H
+
transmembrane transport and enhancing oxidative phosphorylation activity. However, putrescine protonation was limited under alkaline conditions, and the intracellular H
+
consumption further exacerbated alkali stress and inhibits cellular metabolic activity. Exogenous putrescine promoted the proportion of fungi and acidophilic bacteria under acidic stress and alkaliphilic bacteria under alkali stress while having a limited impact on fungi in alkaline biofilms. Increasing
Bdellovibrio
under alkali conditions with putrescine further aggravated the biofilm decomposition. This research shed light on the unclear relationship between exogenous putrescine, environmental pH, and pH stress adaptability of biofilm. By judiciously employing putrescine, biofilm formation could be controlled to meet the needs of engineering applications with different characteristics.

IMPORTANCE

The objective of this study is to unravel the regulatory mechanism by which exogenous putrescine influences biofilm pH stress adaptability and understand the role of environmental pH in this intricate process. Our findings revealed that exogenous putrescine functioned as a switch-like distributor affecting the pH stress adaptability of biofilm-based activated sludge, which promoted energy utilization for growth and reproduction processes under acidic conditions while limiting biofilm development to conserve energy under alkaline conditions. This study not only clarified the previously ambiguous relationship between exogenous putrescine, environmental pH, and biofilm pH stress adaptability but also offered fresh insights into enhancing biofilm stability within extreme environments. Through the modulation of energy utilization, exerting control over biofilm growth and achieving more effective engineering goals could be possible.
Circular metagenome-assembled genome of
Candidatus
Cloacimonadota recovered from anaerobic digestion sludge
Authors: Sakurai Riku , Fukuda Yasuhiro , Tada Chika
Published: June 2024

This study reports a circular metagenome-assembled genome (cMAG) of
Candidatus
Cloacimonadota recovered from a mesophilic full-scale food waste treatment plant. The cMAG spans 2,298,113 bp, with 980× coverage and 1 contig.
Complete genome sequences of
Edwardsiella ictaluri
strains isolated from ayu (
Plecoglossus altivelis altivelis
) in the Kagami and Shimanto Rivers, Kochi, Japan
Authors: Imajoh Masayuki , Yukawa Akane , Kawahara Miyu , Daibata Masanori
Published: June 2024

The complete genome sequences of seven
Edwardsiella ictaluri
strains, isolated from the kidneys of dead ayu (
Plecoglossus altivelis altivelis
) in Kochi’s Kagami and Shimanto Rivers, Japan, were determined. Multilocus sequencing typing revealed that their genotypes were sequence-type ST26.
The dynamics of the female microbiome: unveiling abrupt changes of microbial domains across body sites from prepartum to postpartum phases
Authors: Neumann Charlotte J. , Pausan Manuela-Raluca , Haid Victoria , Weiss Eva-Christine , Kolovetsiou-Kreiner Vassiliki , Amtmann Bettina , Winkler Petra , Mahnert Alexander , Jantscher-Krenn Evelyn , Moissl-Eichinger Christine
Published: June 2024

The microbial ecosystem of women undergoes enormous changes during pregnancy and the perinatal period. Little is known about the extent of changes in the maternal microbiome beyond the vaginal cavity and its recovery after birth. In this study, we followed pregnant women [maternal prepartum (mpre),
n
= 30] into the postpartum period [1 month postpartum, maternal postpartum (mpost),
n
= 30]. We profiled their oral, urinary, and vaginal microbiome; archaeome; mycobiome; and urinary metabolome and compared them with those of nonpregnant (np) women (
n
= 29). Overall, pregnancy status (np, mpre, and mpost) had a smaller effect on the microbiomes than body site, but massive transitions were observed for the oral and urogenital (vaginal and urinary) microbiomes. While the oral microbiome fluctuates during pregnancy but stabilizes rapidly within the first month postpartum, the urogenital microbiome is characterized by a major remodeling caused by a massive loss of
Lactobacillus
and thus a shift from Vaginal Community State Type (CST) I (40% of women) to CST IV (85% of women). The urinary metabolome rapidly reached an np-like composition after delivery, apart from lactose and oxaloacetic acid, which were elevated during active lactation. Fungal and archaeal profiles were indicative of pregnancy status.
Methanobacterium
signatures were found mainly in np women, and
Methanobrevibacter
showed an opposite behavior in the oral cavity (increased) and vagina (decreased) during pregnancy. Our findings suggest that the massive remodeling of the maternal microbiome and metabolome needs more attention and that potential interventions could be envisioned to optimize recovery and avoid long-term effects on maternal health and subsequent pregnancies.

IMPORTANCE

The perinatal microbiome is of specific interest for the health of the mother and infant. We therefore investigate the dynamics of the female microbiome from nonpregnant over prepartum to the postpartum period in urine and the oral and vaginal cavities. A specific focus of this study is put not only on the bacterial part of the microbiome but also on the underinvestigated contribution of fungi and archaea. To our knowledge, we present the first study highlighting those aspects. Our findings suggest that the massive remodeling of the maternal microbiome and metabolome needs more attention and that potential interventions could be envisioned to optimize recovery and avoid long-term effects on maternal health and subsequent pregnancies.
Evaluation of the Allplex HPV assay’s adherence to international guidelines for cervical cancer screening in clinician-collected samples
Authors: Chung Pui Yan Jenny , Dhillon Sharonjit K. , Cortoos Selina , Hamerlinck Hannelore , Pereira Rita , Padalko Elizaveta , Vanden Broeck Davy , Arbyn Marc
Published: June 2024

Clinically validated human papillomavirus (HPV) assays are crucial in cervical cancer screening. In this study, we evaluated the Allplex HPV HR Detection assay (Seegene, SouthKorea) for its clinical accuracy and reproducibility according to the international criteria, using the RealTime High Risk HPV m2000 assay (Abbott, USA) as standard comparator. The Allplex HPV HR assay exhibits significant non-inferior sensitivity to detect cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade (CIN) 2 or worse (CIN2+) with a ratio of 1.00 (95% CI: 0.97–1.03,
P
= 0.006), insignificant non-inferior sensitivity to detect CIN3+ with a ratio of 1.00 (95% CI: 0.88–1.13,
P
= 0.098), and non-inferior specificity to exclude CIN2+ with a ratio of 0.99 (95% CI: 0.99–1.00,
P
< 0.001) compared to the standard comparator. In addition, the assay shows an excellent reproducibility within the same laboratory [96.5% (95% CI: 94.6–97.9) with a kappa value of 0.91 (95% CI: 0.87–0.95)] and between laboratories [96.7% (95% CI: 94.8–98.0) with a kappa value of 0.91 (95% CI: 0.87–0.95)] for overall high-risk HPV positivity as well as for each individual HPV type. Pooling our study data with those of another independent study supports the consistency of our findings. We conclude that both the clinical accuracy to detect cervical precancer and the reproducibility of Allplex HPV HR Detection assay fulfill the international validation criteria of use in cervical cancer screening.

IMPORTANCE

The clinical validation of human papillomavirus (HPV) assays in accordance with well-established international guidelines is crucial to ensure that only validated assays are used in the context of screening (Meijer et al., Int J Cancer, 2009). The guidelines, developed by an international consortium, require that a novel HPV assay has non-inferior accuracy against a standard comparator test for the detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade (CIN) 2 or worse (CIN2+). Additionally, a new HPV assay should meet specific criteria for both intra- and inter-laboratory reproducibility to ensure the assay consistently exhibits technical precision and robust performance. Pooling our study data with those of another independent study supports the consistency of our findings. In conclusion, both the clinical accuracy to detect cervical precancer and the reproducibility of Allplex HPV HR Detection assay fulfill the international validation criteria of use in cervical cancer screening.
Absolute quantification of viral proteins from pseudotyped VSV-GP using UPLC-MRM
Authors: Basu Rajeswari , Dambra Richard , Jiang Di , Schätzlein Sophia A. , Njiyang Shu , Ashour Joseph , Chiramel Abhilash I. , Vigil Adam , Papov Vladimir V.
Published: June 2024

The rapidly developing field of oncolytic virus (OV) therapy necessitates the development of new and improved analytical approaches for the characterization of the virus during production and development. Accurate monitoring and absolute quantification of viral proteins are crucial for OV product characterization and can facilitate the understanding of infection, immunogenicity, and development stages of viral replication. Targeted mass spectrometry methods like multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) offer a robust way to directly detect and quantify specific targeted proteins represented by surrogate peptides. We have leveraged the power of MRM by combining ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with a Sciex 6500 triple-stage quadrupole mass spectrometer to develop an assay that accurately and absolutely quantifies the structural proteins of a pseudotyped vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) intended for use as a new biotherapeutic (designated hereafter as VSV-GP to differentiate it from native VSV). The new UPLC-MRM method provides absolute quantification with the use of heavy-labeled reference standard surrogate peptides. When added in known exact amounts to standards and samples, the reference standards normalize and account for any small perturbations during sample preparation and/or instrument performance, resulting in accurate and precise quantification. Because of the multiplexed nature of MRM, all targeted proteins are quantified at the same time. The optimized assay has been enhanced to quantify the ratios of the processed GP1 and GP2 proteins while simultaneously measuring any remaining or unprocessed form of the envelope protein GP complex (GPC; full-length GPC).

IMPORTANCE

The development of oncolytic viral therapy has gained considerable momentum in recent years. Vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSV-GP) is a new biotherapeutic emerging in the oncolytic viral therapy platform. Novel analytical assays that can accurately and precisely quantify the viral proteins are a necessity for the successful development of viral vector as a biotherapeutic. We developed an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography multiple reaction monitoring-based assay to quantify the absolute concentrations of the different structural proteins of VSV-GP. The complete processing of GP complex (GPC) is a prerequisite for the infectivity of the virus. The assay extends the potential for quantifying full-length GPC, which provides an understanding of the processing of GPC (along with the quantification of GP1 and GP2 separately). We used this assay in tracking GPC processing in HEK-293-F production cell lines infected with VSV-GP.
Mechanisms of gastrointestinal toxicity in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil: insights from a mouse model and human study
Authors: Li Gong , Xia Li-Juan , Shu Ya-Qing , Wan Lei , Huang Qiao , Ma Xiao-Yu , Zhang Hai-Yi , Zheng Zi-Jian , Wang Xi-Ran , Zhou Shi-Ying , Gao Ang , Ren Hao , Lian Xin-Lei , Xu Dan , Tang Sheng-Qiu , Liao Xiao-Ping , Qiu Wei , Sun Jian
Published: June 2024

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is commonly utilized for the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). However, a subset of patients experience significant gastrointestinal (GI) adverse effects following MMF administration. The present study aims to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of MMF-induced GI toxicity in NMOSD. Utilizing a vancomycin-treated mouse model, we compiled a comprehensive data set to investigate the microbiome and metabolome in the GI tract to elucidate the mechanisms of MMF GI toxicity. Furthermore, we enrolled 17 female NMOSD patients receiving MMF, who were stratified into non-diarrhea NMOSD and diarrhea NMOSD (DNM) groups, in addition to 12 healthy controls. The gut microbiota of stool samples was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Vancomycin administration prevented weight loss and tissue injury caused by MMF, affecting colon metabolomes and microbiomes. Bacterial β-glucuronidase from Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes was linked to intestinal tissue damage. The DNM group showed higher alpha diversity and increased levels of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria. The β-glucuronidase produced by Firmicutes may be important in causing gastrointestinal side effects from MMF in NMOSD treatment, providing useful information for future research on MMF.

IMPORTANCE

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients frequently endure severe consequences like paralysis and blindness. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) effectively addresses these issues, but its usage is hindered by gastrointestinal (GI) complications. Through uncovering the intricate interplay among MMF, gut microbiota, and metabolic pathways, this study identifies specific gut bacteria responsible for metabolizing MMF into a potentially harmful form, thus contributing to GI side effects. These findings not only deepen our comprehension of MMF toxicity but also propose potential strategies, such as inhibiting these bacteria, to mitigate these adverse effects. This insight holds broader implications for minimizing complications in NMOSD patients undergoing MMF therapy.
Anti-phase variation of long eccentricity and precipitation in inland Asia during the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum
Authors: Zhang Zhongbao , Nie Junsheng , Licht Alexis , Cogne Nathan , Sarr Anta-Clarisse , Shen Tiantian , Liu Xingwan , Wang Weihang , Gao Peng , Li Lin , Poujol Marc , Guihou Abel , Deschamps Pierre , Hao Lewei
Published: June 2024

The mechanisms and pace of orbital forcing on precipitation in inland Asia during the Cenozoic remain poorly understood. Many previous studies using magnetic proxies for precipitation have shown a consistent signal of long eccentricity (405 kyr) in hydrological records of central China that are younger than ca. 11 Ma. Most studies suggest that variations in rainfall amount were controlled by Northern Hemisphere summer insolation, and the peak of precipitation is associated with eccentricity maxima. Here, we report multiple magnetic records dating back to the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum (MMCO, ~14–17 m.y. ago), including a detailed record from a new section in the Qaidam Basin, which was dated using magnetostratigraphy, U-Pb geochronology, and apatite low-temperature thermochronology. Our records show the exact opposite: 405 kyr wet-dry cycles dominated, but the wetter intervals correspond to eccentricity minima and ice-volume maxima during the MMCO. Taken at face value, these results question the origin—monsoonal or westerly-derived—of the precipitation that reached central China during the middle Miocene and the mechanisms that enhanced monsoonal penetration of inland Asia. We also suggest that this anti-phase relationship could also reflect biases in magnetic proxies for precipitation during the wettest climatic phases, which can result in the dissolution of magnetic minerals and a significant underestimation of past rainfall.
Supplemental Material: Spatial–temporal variations in Mesozoic crustal thickness along the northeast Asian continental margin: Response to the subduction history of the Paleo-Pacific Plate
Authors: Tang Jie , al. et
Published: June 2024

Table S1: The compositions and predicted crustal thickness of the Mesozoic magmatic rocks in the northeast Asian continental margin. Table S2: The Cu-Mo-Au deposits in the northeast Asian continental margin. 
Laryngeal stridor in children caused by reversible metabolic disease
Authors: Alnemari Farah Salman , Alsheef Hussain , Almalki Zohour Awadh
Published: June 2024

We report a case of a boy in his middle childhood who presented with inspiratory stridor and lactic acidosis and was subsequently diagnosed with partial biotinidase deficiency. Fibreoptic laryngoscope showed paradoxical vocal fold mobility.

Partial biotidinase deficiency is an inherited disorder in which the body is unable to recycle the vitamin biotin. It may result in clinical consequences and can be easily treated with biotin but need a high index of suspicion to diagnose. The main symptoms include ataxia, seizures, hypotonia, psychomotor retardation, alopecia, skin rash, progressive deafness, optic atrophy and life-threatening episodes of metabolic acidosis. Laryngeal stridor is an uncommon presentation, but it is reversible in case of biotinidase deficiency. Invasive procedure like tracheostomy has not been shown to enhance outcomes.
Quantum gravity modifications to the accretion onto a Kerr black hole
Authors: Sánchez Luis A.
Published: June 2024

In the framework of the Asymptotic Safety scenario for quantum gravity, we analyze quantum gravity modifications to the thermal characteristics of a thin accretion disk spiraling around a renormalization group improved (RGI-) Kerr black hole in the low energy regime. We focused on the quantum effects on the location of the innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO), the energy flux from the disk, the disk temperature, the observed redshifted luminosity, and the accretion efficiency. The deviations from the classical general relativity due to quantum effects are described for a free parameter that arises in the improved Kerr metric as a consequence of the fact that the Newton constant turns into a running coupling G(r) depending on the energy scale. We find that, both for rapid and slow rotating black holes with accretion disks in prograde and retrograde circulation, increases in the value of this parameter are accompanied by a decreasing of the ISCO, by a lifting of the peaks of the radiation properties of the disk and by an increase of the accretion mass efficiency, as compared with the predictions of general relativity. Our results confirm previously established findings in Zuluaga and Sánchez (Eur Phys J C 81:840, 2021) where we showed that these quantum gravity effects also occur for an accretion disk around a RGI-Schwarzschild black hole.
Machine learning the breakdown of tame effective theories
Authors: Lanza Stefano
Published: June 2024

Effective field theories endowed with a nontrivial moduli space may be broken down by several, distinct effects as the energy scales that are probed increase. These may include the appearance of a finite number of new states, or the emergence of an infinite tower of states, as predicted by the Distance Conjecture. Consequently, the moduli space can be partitioned according to which kind of state first breaks down the effective description, and the effective-theory cutoff has to be regarded as a function of the moduli that may abruptly vary in form across the components of the partition. In this work we characterize such a slicing of the moduli space, induced by the diverse breakdown mechanisms, in a two-fold way. Firstly, employing the recently formulated Tameness Conjecture, we show that the partition of the moduli space so constructed is composed only of a finite number of distinct components. Secondly, we illustrate how this partition can be concretely constructed by means of supervised machine learning techniques, with minimal bottom-up information.
Revisiting inert doublet model parameters
Authors: Abouabid Hamza , Arhrib Abdesslam , Hmissou Ayoub , Rahili Larbi
Published: June 2024

In this study, we aim to see how much the actual measurement of the Z+photon and di-photon signal strength, $$\mu _{\gamma \gamma }$$

μ

γ
γ

and $$\mu _{\gamma Z}$$

μ

γ
Z

, could influence the allowed parameter space of the Inert Doublet Model (IDM), and to what extent such measurement can be aligned with the latest bound from XenonNT experiment on the spin-independent dark-matter-nucleon scattering cross-section. Also, by considering the new embedded scalars in the IDM (i.e., S, A and $$H^\pm $$

H
±

), a wide investigation of the one-loop radiative corrections to the trilinear Higgs coupling hhh has been made in the light of the previous measurements.
Advancing tribological simulations of carbon-based lubricants with active learning and machine learning molecular dynamics
Authors: Pacini Alberto , Ferrario Mauro , Loehle Sophie , Righi M. Clelia
Published: June 2024

The need to move toward more sustainable lubricant materials has sparked an ever growing interest on the tribological performances of additives based on environmentally friendly molecules, such as carbon-based compounds, and green liquid media as aqueous solutions. The prediction of the solubility of the additives into the liquid and the tribochemistry of decomposition and polymerization of the additive molecules under harsh conditions is essential for understanding the atomistic mechanisms leading to the formation in situ of the carbon-based lubricious tribofilms so effective in reducing friction and wear at solid interfaces. To this extent, the application of tools like ab initio molecular dynamics based on first-principle density functional theory is severely hindered by the size of the systems of interests and the need to simulate their dynamics over relatively long times. To enable tribological simulations with quantum accuracy for a first time, we develop a workflow for smart configuration sampling in active learning, to obtain machine learning interatomic potentials which are shown to be sufficiently robust and accurate also in the characteristic harsh conditions generated by high loads and shear rates. Focusing on glycerol rich lubricants, we apply this active learning strategy to generate a neural network potential to simulate the formation and behavior of nanometer thick molecular tribofilms. The simulations reveal the superior accuracy of the machine learning approach with respect to classical molecular dynamics with reactive force fields, and pave the way for more promising in depth exploration of novel carbon-based lubricants.
The impact of oxidation voltage on the switching characteristics of Ag/TiO2/Ti nanotube memristor
Authors: Zhao Chaozheng , Li Yuanxing , Yao Shuyi , Zhu Zongtao , Chen Hui
Published: June 2024

Titanium dioxide is one of the earliest materials used in memristors. It is widely studied and researched due to its advantages of the simple preparation process, high dielectric constant, wide bandgap and chemical stability. In this paper, a two-step anodization process was used to prepare the oxidized nanotubes array, which served as the foundation for fabricating Ag/TiO2/Ti memristors. The research delved into the impact of diverse oxidation voltages on the resistive performance of memristor and discussed the underlying mechanism for resultant performance.
50 Years of Queries
Authors: Chamberlin Donald
Published: June 2024

A discussion of the evolution of the database industry over the past half century, and why the relational database concepts introduced by E.F. Codd have proven to be so resilient over several decades.
Spinning Electrons to Attain Low-Power Computing
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: June 2024

Previously neglected materials are being used to spin up novel computing devices.
Privacy-Enhanced Prototype-Based Federated Cross-Modal Hashing for Cross-Modal Retrieval
Authors: Zuo Ruifan , Zheng Chaoqun , Li Fengling , Zhu Lei , Zhang Zheng
Published: June 2024

Cross-modal hashing is widely used for efficient similarity searches, improving data processing efficiency, and reducing storage costs. Existing cross-modal hashing methods primarily focus on centralized training scenarios, where fixed-scale and fixed-category multi-modal data is collected beforehand. However, these methods often face challenges associated with the potential risk of privacy breaches and high data communication costs during data transmission in real-world multimedia retrieval tasks. To tackle these challenges, in this article, we propose an efficient
privacy-enhanced prototype-based federated cross-modal hashing
(PEPFCH). In PEPFCH, we integrate local and global prototypes in order to effectively capture the distinctive traits of individual clients, while also harnessing the collective intelligence of the entire federated learning system. Moreover, to ensure the security of prototype information and prevent its disclosure during the aggregation process, we use a prototype encryption transmission mechanism to encrypt the prototype information before transmission, making it challenging for attackers to gain access to sensitive data. Additionally, to facilitate personalized federated learning and alleviate the issue of parametric catastrophic forgetting, we establish the image and text hyper-networks for each client and adopt a hyper-network extension strategy to selectively preserve and update previously acquired knowledge when acquiring new concepts or categories. Comprehensive experiments highlight the efficiency and superiority of our proposed method. To enhance research and accessibility, we have publicly released our source codes at:
https://github.com/vindahi/PEPFCH
.
Case 330
Authors: Zulfiqar Maria , Al Khafaji Fatima , Wasson Megan
Published: June 2024

History

A 30-year-old female patient with a history of infertility and no pregnancy presented to the gynecologic endometriosis clinic for follow-up 1 month after oocyte retrieval, to be evaluated for pelvic optimization before potential embryo transfer, with worsening dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and overall pelvic pain. Eleven years prior, the patient had undergone left ovarian cystectomy for treatment of endometrioma, as well as excision of deep infiltrative endometriosis. The oocyte retrieval procedure, where more than 30 eggs were retrieved, was complicated by ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and intraperitoneal bleeding, which necessitated admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) for 3 days. Following discharge from the ICU, the patient experienced occasional on-and-off pressure of the urinary bladder and persistent aching pelvic pain. At the 1-month follow-up appointment, the patient’s vital signs were assessed (blood pressure, 142/94 mm Hg; pulse rate, 95 per minute; temperature, 96.8 °F [36 °C]). Routine blood investigations, including white blood cell count, were within normal limits. Physical examination showed the abdomen was soft but there was mild pelvic tenderness. The serum β–human chorionic gonadotropin test result was negative for pregnancy, and urinalysis testing showed no leukocyte esterase or nitrites. MRI of the pelvis ( Figs 1 – 3 ) was performed to evaluate the worsening pain.
China’s Modified Version of Sniffin’ Sticks 12‐Identification Test Used in Chinese Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple System Patients: Comparison of Three Olfactory Testing Methods
Authors: Liu Huijing , Du Wei , Li Shuhua , Jin Ying , Chen Haibo , Su Wen
Published: June 2024

Objectives. The aim of this study was to compare the Sniffin’ Sticks 12‐identification test (SIT‐12), China‐modified version of the SIT‐12 test (Ch‐SIT‐12) and brief smell identification test for Chinese (B‐SITC) in Chinese population of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). Methods. 36 patients with PD and 7 patients with MSA were enrolled in this study. Three olfactory testing methods (SIT‐12, Ch‐SIT‐12, and B‐SITC) were used to test the olfactory function in all participants. Furthermore, demographic and clinical data were collected. Results. There was no significant difference between three olfactory tests in patients with PD (B‐SITC vs. SIT‐12: P = 0.508; Ch‐SIT‐12 vs. B‐SITC: P = 0.146; and SIT‐12 vs. Ch‐SIT‐12: P = 0.375). Tremor‐dominant (TD) subtypes have better olfactory function than akinetic‐rigid dominant (ARD) subtypes when using Ch‐SIT‐12 (77.8% vs. 29.6%, P = 0.019) or B‐SITC (55.6% vs. 14.8%, P = 0.026). There was a statistical difference between the PD and MSA using Ch‐SIT‐12 to test the olfactory function (P = 0.046). Conclusions. Our results indicated that SIT‐12, Ch‐SIT‐12 and B‐SITC can be used for the detection of olfactory dysfunction in Chinese population of PD. TD subtypes may have better olfactory function than ARD subtypes. In addition, Ch‐SIT‐12 may be used to differentiate PD from MSA, but that should be confirmed in a larger population.
Construction of Event Graph for Ship Collision Accident Analysis to Improve Maritime Traffic Safety
Authors: Ma Jun , Wang Yang , Wang Liguang , Xu Luhui , Zhao Jiong
Published: June 2024

At present, there are three main methods for analyzing the causes of ship collision accidents: statistical analysis, accident causation models, and knowledge graphs. With the deepening of research, the analysis methods pay more attention to the objective correlation between various factors of the accident, and the analysis results obtained are more objective and accurate. On this basis, this paper proposes a method for analyzing the contribution degree of different causes and accident conduction paths in ship collision accidents based on the construction of the Ship Collision Accidents Event Graph (SCAEG). Firstly, the ontology is constructed based on the grounded theory. Secondly, events and relationships are extracted after fine‐tuning the UIE model. Thirdly, the SCAEG is constructed after event coreference resolution. Finally, this research conducts the contribution degree analysis, accident conduction path analysis, and accident spatial distribution analysis based on SCAEG. The advantages of this method include the following: (i) it can construct a more complete and accurate ontology; (ii) adopting this approach can unify various information extraction tasks and achieve good results based on small sample annotation data; and (iii) using this method, we can conduct contribution degree analysis of different causes, accident conduction path analysis, and spatial distribution analysis. Experimental evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of this method. The analytical results obtained from the experiments can provide assistant decision‐making for relevant departments to reduce the occurrence of ship collision accidents and improve maritime traffic safety.
Connecting the Dots: Exploring the Interplay Between Preeclampsia and Peripartum Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Gumilar Khanisyah Erza , Rauf Khairunnisa binti Abd , Akbar Muhammad Ilham Aldika , Imanadha Nareswari Cininta , Atmojo Susetyo , Putri Alisia Yuana , Dachlan Erry Gumilar , Dekker Gus
Published: June 2024

Preeclampsia and peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) are significant obstetric problems that can arise during or after pregnancy. Both are known to be causes of maternal mortality and morbidity. Several recent studies have suggested a link between preeclampsia and the pathophysiology of PPCM. However, the common thread that connects the two has yet to be thoroughly and fully articulated. Here, we investigate the complex dynamics of preeclampsia and PPCM in this review. Our analysis focuses mainly on inflammatory and immunological responses, endothelial dysfunction as a shared pathway, and potential genetic predisposition to both diseases. To begin, we will look at how excessive inflammatory and immunological responses can lead to clinical symptoms of both illnesses, emphasizing the role of proinflammatory cytokines and immune cells in modifying vascular and tissue responses. Second, we consider endothelial dysfunction to be a crucial point at which endothelial damage and activation contribute to pathogenesis through increased vascular permeability, vascular dysfunction, and thrombus formation. Finally, we examine recent information suggesting genetic predispositions to preeclampsia and PPCM, such as genetic variants in genes involved in the management of blood pressure, the inflammatory response, and heart structural integrity. With this synergistic study, we seek to encourage more research and creative therapy solutions by emphasizing the need for an interdisciplinary approach to understanding and managing the connection between preeclampsia and PPCM.
Plastic Bronchitis in Children: A Review of 55 Cases over a 10‐Year Period
Authors: Chen Xiaowen , Wu Shangzhi , Huang Zhanhang , Lin Yuneng , Xu Jiaxing , Xu Qingyun , Chen Dehui
Published: June 2024

Objective. To summarize the clinical characteristics and treatment experiences of patients with plastic bronchitis (PB). Methods. All patients who were diagnosed with PB by bronchoscopic removal of tree‐like casts at a single institution from January 2012 to May 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic and clinical data were retrieved from electronic patient records. Results. A total of 55 patients, with a median age of 5.3 years, were eligible for the study. Nineteen cases had underlying diseases, among which asthma was the most common. The median course of the disease before admission was 11 days. Clinical symptoms were characterized by cough and fever, while moist rales (78.2%) and dyspnea (61.8%) were the most common signs. The most common laboratory finding was elevated C‐reactive protein (58.2%). Patchy opacity was the most frequent radiographic finding (81.2%), followed by consolidation (60.0%) and pleural effusion (43.6%). Respiratory pathogens were detected in 41 cases, and M. pneumoniae was the most common one (41.8%), followed by adenovirus (20.0%) and influenza B virus (10.9%). The casts were removed by alveolar lavage, combined with ambroxol immersion (63.6%) and forceps (30.9%). Patients received an average of 2.3 bronchoscopies, and the median time for the first procedure was 3 days after admission. Antibiotics were given to all patients, methylprednisolone to 33 (60.0%), and gamma globulin to 25 (45.5%). A total of 53 cases were improved with an overall mortality rate of 3.6%. Conclusions. PB in children is characterized by airway obstruction, mostly caused by respiratory infections, and timely removal of the cast by bronchoscopy is the most effective treatment.
Biologic and Clinical Analysis of Childhood Gamma Delta T-ALL Identifies LMO2/STAG2 Rearrangements as Extremely High Risk
Authors: Kimura Shunsuke , Park Chun Shik , Montefiori Lindsey E. , Iacobucci Ilaria , Pölönen Petri , Gao Qingsong , Arnold Elizabeth D. , Attarbaschi Andishe , Brown Anthony , Buldini Barbara , Caldwell Kenneth J. , Chang Yunchao , Chen Chelsey , Cheng Cheng , Cheng Zhongshan , Choi John , Conter Valentino , Crews Kristine R. , de Groot-Kruseman Hester A. , Deguchi Takao , Eguchi Mariko , Muhle Hannah E. , Elitzur Sarah , Escherich Gabriele , Freeman Burgess B. , Gu Zhaohui , Han Katie , Horibe Keizo , Imamura Toshihiko , Jeha Sima , Kato Motohiro , Chiew Kean H. , Khan Tanya , Kicinski Michal , Köhrer Stefan , Kornblau Steven M. , Kotecha Rishi S. , Li Chi-Kong , Liu Yen-Chun , Locatelli Franco , Luger Selina M. , Paietta Elisabeth M. , Manabe Atsushi , Marquart Hanne V. , Masetti Riccardo , Maybury Mellissa , Mazilier Pauline , Meijerink Jules P.P. , Mitchell Sharnise , Miyamura Takako , Moore Andrew S. , Oshima Koichi , Pawinska-Wasikowska Katarzyna , Pieters Rob , Prater Mollie S. , Pruett-Miller Shondra M. , Pui Ching-Hon , Qu Chunxu , Reiterova Michaela , Reyes Noemi , Roberts Kathryn G. , Rowe Jacob M. , Sato Atsushi , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Schrappe Martin , Shen Shuhong , Skoczeń Szymon , Spinelli Orietta , Stary Jan , Svaton Michael , Takagi Masatoshi , Takita Junko , Tang Yanjing , Teachey David T. , Thomas Paul G. , Tomizawa Daisuke , Trka Jan , Varotto Elena , Vincent Tiffaney L. , Yang Jun J. , Yeoh Allen E.J. , Zhou Yinmei , Zimmermann Martin , Inaba Hiroto , Mullighan Charles G.
Published: June 2024

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia expressing the gamma delta T-cell receptor (γδ T-ALL) is a poorly understood disease. We studied 200 children with γδ T-ALL from 13 clinical study groups to understand the clinical and genetic features of this disease. We found age and genetic drivers were significantly associated with outcome. γδ T-ALL diagnosed in children under 3 years of age was extremely high-risk and enriched for genetic alterations that result in both LMO2 activation and STAG2 inactivation. Mechanistically, using patient samples and isogenic cell lines, we show that inactivation of STAG2 profoundly perturbs chromatin organization by altering enhancer–promoter looping, resulting in deregulation of gene expression associated with T-cell differentiation. High-throughput drug screening identified a vulnerability in DNA repair pathways arising from STAG2 inactivation, which can be targeted by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibition. These data provide a diagnostic framework for classification and risk stratification of pediatric γδ T-ALL.

Significance: Patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia expressing the gamma delta T-cell receptor under 3 years old or measurable residual disease ≥1% at end of induction showed dismal outcomes and should be classified as having high-risk disease. The STAG2/LMO2 subtype was enriched in this very young age group. STAG2 inactivation may perturb chromatin conformation and cell differentiation and confer vulnerability to poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibition.
TABLE 1 from Activation of the Mevalonate Pathway in Response to Anti-cancer Treatments Drives Glioblastoma Recurrences Through Activation of Rac-1
Authors: He Ling , Ioannidis Angeliki , Hoffman Carter J. , Arambula Evelyn , Joshi Purva , Whitelegge Julian , Liau Linda M. , Kornblum Harley I. , Pajonk Frank
Published: June 2024

Patient demographics and TCGA-classification of GBM subtypes
FIGURE 5 from Activation of the Mevalonate Pathway in Response to Anti-cancer Treatments Drives Glioblastoma Recurrences Through Activation of Rac-1
Authors: He Ling , Ioannidis Angeliki , Hoffman Carter J. , Arambula Evelyn , Joshi Purva , Whitelegge Julian , Liau Linda M. , Kornblum Harley I. , Pajonk Frank
Published: June 2024

Identification of Rac1 as the potential contributor for maintaining the stemness of surviving glioma cells. A, Cholesterol biosynthesis pathway and the key selected inhibitors. B–E, Sphere-forming capacity of HK374 spheres treated either with GGTI-298 (GGTase inhibitor) or YM-53601 (squalene synthase inhibitor) or Zaragozic acid (squalene synthase inhibitor) or Lonafarnib (farnesyltransferase inhibitor) at 100, 500 nmol/L, 1 µmol/L concentrations when combined with radiation and QTP (10 µmol/L). F–I, Sphere-forming capacity of HK374 spheres treated either with Ehop-016 (Rac GTPase inhibitor) or Rhosin (RhoA-specific inhibitor) or Y27632 (ROCK1/2 inhibitor) or CID44216842 (Cdc42-selective inhibitor) at 500 nmol/L, 1, 5, 10 µmol/L concentrations when combined with radiation and QTP. All experiments have been performed with at least three biological independent repeats. P-values were calculated using one-way ANOVA.
FIGURE 4 from Activation of the Mevalonate Pathway in Response to Anti-cancer Treatments Drives Glioblastoma Recurrences Through Activation of Rac-1
Authors: He Ling , Ioannidis Angeliki , Hoffman Carter J. , Arambula Evelyn , Joshi Purva , Whitelegge Julian , Liau Linda M. , Kornblum Harley I. , Pajonk Frank
Published: June 2024

Statins improve median survival in mouse models of GBM undergoing fractionated irradiation. A, Heat map showing the results of qRT-PCR for the cholesterol biosynthesis–related genes in HK374 cells treated with radiation in the presence or absence of ONC201 (a single treatment of 2.5 µmol/L) at 48 and 72 hours. P-values were calculated using unpaired Student t test for A. *, P < 0.05. B, Survival curves for C57BL/6 mice implanted intracranially with 2 × 105 GL261-GFP-Luciferase mouse glioma cells and grafted for 7 days. Mice were irradiated and weekly treated with saline or ONC201 (50 mg/kg, i.p.) or triple combination of radiation plus ONC201 (weekly) and atorvastatin (30 mg/kg, i.p., 5-day on/2-day off schedule) continuously until they reached the study endpoint. log-rank (Mantel–Cox) test for comparison of Kaplan–Meier survival curves. C, H&E-stained coronal sections of the C57BL/6 mice brains implanted with GL261-GFP-Luc cells which were irradiated and treated continuously with ONC201 in the presence or absence of atorvastatin until they met the criteria for study endpoint. D, Schematic of the experimental design of fractionated irradiation in syngeneic mouse model of GBM. E, Kaplan–Meier survival curves for C57BL/6 mice implanted intracranially with GL261-GFP-Luciferase mouse glioma cells and treated with either a single fraction of 0 or 10 Gy or five daily fractions of 3 Gy each and daily doses of either saline, QTP (30 mg/kg, s.c.), or QTP plus atorvastatin (30 mg/kg, i.p.). After completion of the radiation treatment all animals were treated with QTP plus atorvastatin until they reached criteria for euthanasia. log-rank (Mantel–Cox) test for comparison of Kaplan–Meier survival curves. F, H&E-stained coronal sections of the C57BL/6 mice brains from the groups of 5 × 3 Gy → QTP + atorvastatin, 5 × 3 Gy + QTP → QTP + atorvastatin and 5 × 3 Gy + QTP + atorvastatin → QTP + atorvastatin.
Taxonomic revision of Tricyrtis (Liliaceae) in Taiwan and a new species, Tricyrtis lingyunyanensis
Authors: CHEN YU-HUAN , HUANG TING-HSUAN , LU CHANG-TSE , SHEN RONG-SHOW
Published: June 2024

We examined morphological characteristics, elevation, and phenology to revise Tricyrtis in Taiwan. As a result, we confirmed five species and one variety. Tricyrtis lingyunyanensis is a new species found only in the north on Wunfong Mountain, Chiayi Country, Taiwan, at an elevation of approximately 1100 m. This study provides a detailed assessment of the morphology of each species by offering descriptions and comparative photographs.
Polyporus miscanthi (Polyporaceae, Basidiomycota), a new polypore on Miscanthus (Poaceae) from Guangxi, South China
Authors: ZHANG QIU-YUE , LIU HONG-GAO , ZENG GUANG-YU , DAI YU-CHENG
Published: June 2024

Polyporus is a widespread genus with highly variable morphological features and intricate phylogenetic relationships. Polyporus miscanthi, collected from Guangxi Autonomous Region, South China, is presented as a new species based on both morphological and phylogenetic analyses. It is characterized by annual, solitary, eccentrically stipitate basidiomata with irregularly circular, depressed center or infundibuliform pilei, yellowish to buff pileal surface with radially aligned stripes, white to cream pores, 4–5 per mm, a mouse gray to black stipe, cylindrical basidiospores measuring 9–11 × 3.5–4.5 μm, and growth on rotten Miscanthus. We present the new species with illustrated macro- and micro morphological description and comparison with morphologically similar or phylogenetically related species. Additionally, we provide a key to the known species of Polyporus in China.
Forty years later: a new Andean stream treefrog of the genus Hyloscirtus (Anura: Hylidae) from Ecuador, with comments on arm hypertrophy in the H. larinopygion group
Authors: RIVERA-CORREA MAURICIO , RON SANTIAGO , NUNES IVAN , ARAUJO-VIEIRA KATYUSCIA , PINHEIRO PAULO D. P. , GRANT TARAN
Published: June 2024

We present the description of a novel treefrog species inhabiting the Andean streams in southeastern Ecuador that has been erroneously identified as Hyloscirtus lindae for four decades. The new species is closely related to H. tapichalaca and is part of the southern clade of the H. larinopygion group, which comprises five species confined to the southeastern Andes of Ecuador to the northeastern Andes of Peru. It is diagnosed from its close relatives by a unique combination of characteristics, including hypertrophied forelimbs in males, a pronounced, curved, and protruding spine-shaped prepollex, a substantial supracloacal flap, supratympanic fold, digital discs colored in shades of orange-red or bright-red, and the concealed surfaces of limbs displaying a bluish-gray hue and dorsal spicules in males. We briefly explore the implications of this discovery for the evolution of arm morphology in the H. larinopygion group. Our findings underscore the continued importance of periodically reviewing historical specimens, leading to unexpected discoveries; once again confirming the importance of natural history museums and their custodian biological collections.