bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEANINGFUL FEEDBACK DI APLIKASI QB-REC UNTUK MEMPERTAJAM PEMAHAMAN BAHASA INGGRIS
Authors: Andoko Banni Satria , Shoumi Milyun Ni'ma , Muhammad Rifqie
Published: March 2024

Bahasa Inggris merupakan bahasa yang wajib dikembangkan dalam era globalisasi, karena dalam penerapannya bahasa Inggris dapat dijumpai dalam berbagai hal seperti pendidikan, teknologi, komunikasi, bisnis, dan lainnya. Sehingga dalam kemampuan membaca Bahasa Inggris, perlu diajarkan dan ditingkatkan kembali hingga generasi selanjutnya. QB-Rec merupakan aplikasi yang menggunakan konsep Meaningful Feedback untuk mempertajam pemahaman Bahasa Inggris, serta menggunakan Question Building yang mampu membuat pertanyaan dari bahan bacaan. Dalam aplikasinya, terdiri dari Dosen dan Mahasiswa. Dosen yang akan berperan dalam pembuatan soal beserta feedback dan mahasiswa sebagai pemberi jawaban pada soal yang diberikan oleh dosen. Eksperimen ini melibatkan dua belas mahasiswa yang berada di kampus Polinema. Dalam pengujiannya, mahasiswa melakukan pembacaan teks selama 5 menit, kemudian dilanjutkan dengan melakukan pre-test sebanyak 10 pertanyaan selama 10 menit, yang akan dijawab setelah mahasiswa melakukan kegiatan membaca teks. Lalu, mahasiswa akan menggunakan aplikasi QB-Rec selama 15 menit, yang telah disediakan soal berupa paragraf dan pilihan jawaban yang berupa pertanyaan. Setelah itu, mahasiswa akan melakukan post-test selama 10 menit untuk menguji apakah mahasiswa tersebut mengalami peningkatan pemahaman bahasa Inggris terhadap aplikasi yang digunakan. Sehingga, hasil yang diperoleh berupa peningkatan pada nilai post-test dalam pengujiannya. Dengan konsep Meaningful Feedback yang diterapkan dalam aplikasi, dapat disimpulkan bahwa konsep tersebut dapat meningkatkan kemampuan membaca bahasa Inggris bagi mahasiswa, sehingga dapat diketahui hasil penelitian pada penerapan konsep yang digunakan dalam aplikasi tersebut.
Genomic and metabolic instability during long-term fermentation of an industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain engineered for C5 sugar utilization
Authors: Duperray Maëlle , Delvenne Mathéo , François Jean Marie , Delvigne Frank , Capp Jean-Pascal
Published: March 2024

The genetic stability and metabolic robustness of production strains is one of the key criteria for the production of bio-based products by microbial fermentation on an industrial scale. These criteria were here explored in an industrial ethanol-producer strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae able to co-ferment D-xylose and L-arabinose with glucose through the chromosomal integration of several copies of pivotal genes for the use of these pentose (C5) sugars. Using batch sequential cultures in a controlled bioreactor that mimics long-term fermentation in an industrial setting, this strain was found to exhibit significant fluctuations in D-xylose and L-arabinose consumption as early as the 50th generation and beyond. These fluctuations seem not related to the few low-consumption C5 sugar clones that appeared throughout the sequential batch cultures at a frequency lower than 1.5% and that were due to the reduction in the number of copies of transgenes coding for C5 sugar assimilation enzymes. Also, subpopulations enriched with low or high RAD52 expression, whose expression level was reported to be proportional to homologous recombination rate did not exhibit defect in C5-sugar assimilation, arguing that other mechanisms may be responsible for copy number variation of transgenes. Overall, this work highlighted the existence of genetic and metabolic instabilities in an industrial yeast which, although modest in our conditions, could be more deleterious in harsher industrial conditions, leading to reduced production performance.
A comparison of conventional and advanced 3D imaging techniques for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure
Authors: Heidari Houtan , Kanschik Dominika , Maier Oliver , Wolff Georg , Brockmeyer Maximilian , Masyuk Maryna , Bruno Raphael Romano , Polzin Amin , Erkens Ralf , Antoch Gerald , Reinartz Sebastian Daniel , Werner Nikos , Kelm Malte , Zeus Tobias , Afzal Shazia , Jung Christian
Published: March 2024

Background

Understanding complex cardiac anatomy is essential for percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure. Conventional multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) are now supported by advanced 3D printing and virtual reality (VR) techniques for three-dimensional visualization of volumetric data sets. This study aimed to investigate their added value for LAA closure procedures.

Methods

Ten patients scheduled for interventional LAA closure were evaluated with MSCT and TEE. Patient-specific 3D printings and VR models were fabricated based on MSCT data. Ten cardiologists then comparatively assessed LAA anatomy and its procedure relevant surrounding structures with all four imaging modalities and rated their procedural utility on a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire (from 1 = strongly agree to 5 = strongly disagree).

Results

Device sizing was rated highest in MSCT (MSCT: 1.9 ± 0.8; TEE: 2.6 ± 0.9; 3D printing: 2.5 ± 1.0; VR: 2.5 ± 1.1; p < 0.01); TEE, VR, and 3D printing were superior in the visualization of the Fossa ovalis compared to MSCT (MSCT: 3.3 ± 1.4; TEE: 2.2 ± 1.3; 3D printing: 2.2 ± 1.4; VR: 1.9 ± 1.3; all p < 0.01). The major strength of VR and 3D printing techniques was a superior depth perception (VR: 1.6 ± 0.5; 3D printing: 1.8 ± 0.4; TEE: 2.9 ± 0.7; MSCT: 2.6 ± 0.8; p < 0.01). The visualization of extracardiac structures was rated less accurate in TEE than MSCT (TEE: 2.6 ± 0.9; MSCT: 1.9 ± 0.8, p < 0.01). However, 3D printing and VR insufficiently visualized extracardiac structures in the present study.

Conclusion

A true 3D visualization in VR or 3D printing provides an additional value in the evaluation of the LAA for the planning of percutaneous closure. In particular, the superior perception of depth was seen as a strength of a 3D visualization. This may contribute to a better overall understanding of the anatomy. Clinical studies are needed to evaluate whether a more comprehensive understanding through advanced multimodal imaging of patient-specific anatomy using VR may translate into improved procedural outcomes.
Seismic landslide hazard assessment using improved seismic motion parameters of the 2017 Ms 7.0 Jiuzhaigou earthquake, Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yang Zhihua , Du Guoliang , Zhang Yangshuang , Xu Chong , Yu Pengfei , Shao Weiwei , Mai Ximao
Published: March 2024

Seismic landslide hazard assessment plays a very important guiding role during urgent earthquake relief. In August 2017, an Ms 7.0 earthquake in Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province, China, triggered thousands of landslides. Based on the analysis of geological settings and coseismic landslide characteristics, the Newmark model is used to complete the seismic landslide hazard assessment. Three seismic motion parameters, namely, peak ground acceleration (PGA), traditional Arias intensity (Arias_P), and improved Arias intensity (Arias_C), are adopted. A publicly published coseismic landslide catalog is used as the validation samples. The results show that the coseismic landslides are mainly distributed in the deep gullies and steep mountainous slopes on the north and south sides of the epicenter. The seismic landslide hazard accuracy based on Arias_C is the best, followed by that based on PGA and Arias_P. The spatial distribution of seismic landslide hazards based on Arias_C shows an almost standard elliptical ring and is in good agreement with that of coseismic landslides. These results fully reflect the combined influence of the epicenter and seismogenic fault on landslide development. The middle seismic landslide hazard and over are mainly located at areas with seismic intensity of VII degree and above. The Arias intensity is very suitable for rapid seismic landslide hazard assessment in emergency situations. The study results can provide scientific and technological support for rapid earthquake relief and have reference significance for future seismic landslide hazard assessment.
Integrating sustainable development goals in English language and literature teaching
Authors: Cordova Monique
Published: March 2024

Teaching English provides the possibility for raising students’ awareness of global issues. By bringing relevant global issues into the classroom, teachers can provide students a rich array of activities and topics that increase their engagement with diverse cultures, issues of local as well as global importance. This study explored the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals in English language and literature teaching in a state university laboratory school in the Philippines. It focused on the learning experiences and feedback of pre-service teachers and junior high school students on the integration. The phenomenological research design, the interview and focus group discussion were utilized. For a concise description of themes and patterns relevant to the phenomenon, thematic analysis was done after the data gathering. Four dominant themes were revealed in the learning experiences of the teaching interns during the study: Designing for Concrete Action; Applying the Interdisciplinary and Contextualized Approach; Nurturing a Participatory Attitude; and Fostering Personal Accountability. The feedback of the learners on the SDG integration included themes such as Empowerment to Take Initiative, Gaining Meaningful Learning, and Developing a Whole-School Approach. The Integration of SDGs in the English classroom provided a range of benefits for both pre-service teachers and students. Students were given the tools to expand their learning and develop the capacity to proactively address a variety of problems. They were encouraged to view these issues as their own, fostering a sense of ownership and purpose, rather than merely striving for knowledge and comprehension.
Association of metabolic syndrome and sarcopenia with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality: a prospective cohort study based on the NHANES
Authors: Huang Weihong , Deng Siyi , Liu Siyang , Ma Qintao , Cao Liting , Liu Lan , Wan Heng , Shen Jie
Published: March 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and sarcopenia (SP) have emerged as significant public health concerns in contemporary societies, characterized by shared pathophysiological mechanisms and interrelatedness, leading to profound health implications. In this prospective cohort study conducted within a US population, we aimed to examine the influence of MetS and SP on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Methods

This study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III for the years 1999-2006 and 2011-2018, and death outcomes were ascertained by linkage to National Death Index (NDI) records through December 31, 2019. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. In addition, subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted to test the robustness of the results.

Results

Over a median follow-up period of 13.3 years (95% CI: 12.8-13.8), 1714 deaths were observed. The groups characterized by MetS−/SP+, MetS+/SP−, and MetS+/SP+ exhibited higher all-cause mortality rates in comparison to the MetS-/SP- group, with the MetS+/SP+ group (HR 1.76, 95% CI: 1.37-2.25) displaying the highest all-cause mortality. Increased cardiovascular mortality was observed in the MetS+/SP− (HR 1.84, 95% CI: 1.24-2.72), and MetS+/SP+ groups (HR 2.39, 95% CI: 1.32-4.35) compared to the MetS−/SP− group, whereas it was not statistically significant in the MetS-/SP+ group. However, among males and individuals aged < 60, the presence of both MetS and SP (MetS+/SP+ group) was found to be significantly associated with a higher risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Conclusion

The coexistence of MetS and SP increased the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, particularly in males and in nonelderly populations. Individuals with either MetS or SP may require more careful management to prevent the development of other diseases and thereby reduce mortality.
Influence of the number of washings for embryos on non-invasive preimplantation chromosome screening results
Authors: Kang Xiaomei , Wen Meiting , Zheng Jie , Peng Fangxin , Zeng Ni , Chen Zhu , Wu Yanting , Sun Hong
Published: March 2024

Objective

To explore the effect of varying numbers of embryo washings prior to blastocyst formation in non-invasive preimplantation chromosome screening (NICS) on the accuracy of NICS results.

Methods

In this study, 68 blastocysts from preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)-assisted pregnancy were collected at our institution. On the fourth day of embryo culture, the embryos were transferred to a new medium for blastocyst culture and were washed either three times (NICS1 group) or ten times (NICS2 group). A trophectoderm (TE) biopsy was performed on the blastocysts, and the corresponding embryo culture media were collected for whole genome amplification (WGA) and high-throughput sequencing.

Results

The success rate of WGA was 100% (TE biopsy), 76.7% (NICS1 group), and 89.5% (NICS2 group). The success rate of WGA in embryo medium on days 5 and 6 of culture was 75.0% (33/44) and 100% (24/24), respectively. Using TE as the gold standard, the karyotype concordance rate between the results of the NICS1 and NICS2 groups’ embryo culture medium samples and TE results was 43.5% (10/23) and 73.5% (25/34), respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of detecting chromosomal abnormalities were higher in the NICS2 group than in the NICS1 group when TE was used (83.3% vs 60.0%; 62.5% vs 30.8%, respectively). The false-positive rate and false-negative rate (i.e., misdiagnosis rate and missed diagnosis rate, respectively) were lower in the NICS2 group than in the NICS1 group (37.5% vs 69.2%; 16.7% vs 40.0%, respectively).

Conclusion

The NICS yielded favorable results after ten washings of the embryos. These findings provide a novel method for lowering the amount of cell-free DNA contamination from non-embryonic sources in the medium used for embryo development, optimizing the sampling procedure and improving the accuracy of the NICS test.
Association of adrenal steroids with metabolomic profiles in patients with primary and endocrine hypertension
Authors: Knuchel Robin , Erlic Zoran , Gruber Sven , Amar Laurence , Larsen Casper K. , Gimenez-Roqueplo Anne-Paule , Mulatero Paolo , Tetti Martina , Pecori Alessio , Pamporaki Christina , Langton Katharina , Peitzsch Mirko , Ceccato Filippo , Prejbisz Aleksander , Januszewicz Andrzej , Adolf Christian , Remde Hanna , Lenzini Livia , Dennedy Michael , Deinum Jaap , Jefferson Emily , Blanchard Anne , Zennaro Maria-Christina , Eisenhofer Graeme , Beuschlein Felix
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Endocrine hypertension (EHT) due to pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma (PPGL), Cushing’s syndrome (CS), or primary aldosteronism (PA) is linked to a variety of metabolic alterations and comorbidities. Accordingly, patients with EHT and primary hypertension (PHT) are characterized by distinct metabolic profiles. However, it remains unclear whether the metabolomic differences relate solely to the disease-defining hormonal parameters. Therefore, our objective was to study the association of disease defining hormonal excess and concomitant adrenal steroids with metabolomic alterations in patients with EHT.

Methods

Retrospective European multicenter study of 263 patients (mean age 49 years, 50% females; 58 PHT, 69 PPGL, 37 CS, 99 PA) in whom targeted metabolomic and adrenal steroid profiling was available. The association of 13 adrenal steroids with differences in 79 metabolites between PPGL, CS, PA and PHT was examined after correction for age, sex, BMI, and presence of diabetes mellitus.

Results

After adjustment for BMI and diabetes mellitus significant association between adrenal steroids and metabolites – 18 in PPGL, 15 in CS, and 23 in PA – were revealed. In PPGL, the majority of metabolite associations were linked to catecholamine excess, whereas in PA, only one metabolite was associated with aldosterone. In contrast, cortisone (16 metabolites), cortisol (6 metabolites), and DHEA (8 metabolites) had the highest number of associated metabolites in PA. In CS, 18-hydroxycortisol significantly influenced 5 metabolites, cortisol affected 4, and cortisone, 11-deoxycortisol, and DHEA each were linked to 3 metabolites.

Discussions

Our study indicates cortisol, cortisone, and catecholamine excess are significantly associated with metabolomic variances in EHT versus PHT patients. Notably, catecholamine excess is key to PPGL’s metabolomic changes, whereas in PA, other non-defining adrenal steroids mainly account for metabolomic differences. In CS, cortisol, alongside other non-defining adrenal hormones, contributes to these differences, suggesting that metabolic disorders and cardiovascular morbidity in these conditions could also be affected by various adrenal steroids.
Loss of native brown trout diversity in streams of the continental Croatia
Authors: Kanjuh Tamara , Marić Ana , Škraba Jurlina Dubravka , Simonović Predrag , Špelić Ivan , Piria Marina , Maguire Ivana
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The genetic diversity of brown trout in the Western Balkans has been disrupted by the introduction of non-native Atlantic phylogenetic lineages and non-native haplotypes of the Danubian phylogenetic lineage. The Western Balkans is characterized by the greatest phenotypic and genotypic diversity of trout populations, and a large part of the internal territory belongs to the Black Sea basin, where the Danubian Da1 haplotype is native. Artificial propagation of non-native lineages in the Western Balkans has a long history, and these populations are often the only available material for stocking rivers attractive for fishing.

Material and Methods: Fifteen populations in the Danube basin of the continental Croatia were analysed. The analysis of eight microsatellite loci was performed to determine the structure of brown trout populations, as well as the degree of introgression of non-native genetic material into the native.

Results and Disscusion: The results of this study showed significant genetic similarity among brown trout populations, confirming a long history of introduction with non-native genetic material. The main reason was uncontrolled stocking with inadequate material, which is available in fish farms and consists mainly of brown trout of the Atlantic phylogenetic lineage. The results of this study also indicated stocking with brown trout of the non-native haplotypes of the Danubian phylogenetic lineage. The potential breeding origin of brown trout carrying the Danubian Da2 mtDNA haplotype and ways of its introduction into rivers have yet to be investigated. For the survival of the unique gene pool of brown trout in Croatian rivers, it is of fundamental importance to know the structure of wild and farmed populations with the aim of proposing and implementing conservation measures.
Deconvolution of synovial myeloid cell subsets across pathotypes and role of COL3A1+ macrophages in rheumatoid arthritis remission
Authors: Hu Xuantao , Zhang Ziji , Long Lingli , Gu Minghu , Chen Weishen , Pan Baiqi , Wu Xiaoyu , Wang Chao , Li Chengxin , Zheng Linli , Sheng Puyi
Published: March 2024

Background

Monocyte/macrophage (Mo/Mp) is a critical cell population involved in immune modulation of rheumatoid synovitis (RA) across different pathotypes. This study aims to investigate the contribution of Mo/Mp clusters to RA activity, and the biological function of particular subtypes in RA remission.

Methods

We integrated single-cell RNA sequencing datasets from 4 published and 1 in-house studies using Liger selected by comparison. We estimated the abundance of Mo/Mp subtypes in bulk RNA-seq data from the 81 patients of the Pathobiology of Early Arthritis Cohort (PEAC) using deconvolution analysis. Correlations between Mo/Mp subtypes and RA clinical metrics were assessed. A particular cell type was identified using multicolor immunofluorescence and flow cytometry in vivo and successfully induced from a cell line in vitro. Potential immune modulation function of it was performed using immunohistochemical staining, adhesion assay, and RT-qPCR.

Results

We identified 8 Mo/Mp clusters. As a particular subtype among them, COL3A1+ Mp (CD68+, COL3A1+, ACTA2-) enriched in myeloid pathotype and negatively correlated with RA severity metrics in all pathotypes. Flow cytometry and multicolor immunofluorescence evidenced the enrichment and M2-like phenotype of COL3A1+ Mp in the myeloid pathotype. Further assays suggested that COL3A1+ Mp potentially attenuates RA severity via expressing anti-inflammatory cytokines, enhancing Mp adhesion, and forming a physical barrier at the synovial lining.

Conclusion

This study reported unexplored associations between different pathologies and myeloid cell subtypes. We also identified a fibroblast-and-M2-like cluster named COL3A1+ Mp, which potentially contributes to synovial immune homeostasis. Targeting the development of COL3A1+ Mp may hold promise for inducing RA remission.
Immature neutrophils in cord blood exert increased expression of genes associated with antimicrobial function
Authors: Miková Eliška , Černý Viktor , Novotná Olga , Petrásková Petra , Boráková Kristýna , Hel Zdenek , Hrdý Jiří
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The immune systems of both the mother and the newborn face significant challenges during birth. Proper immune regulation after birth is essential for the survival of neonates. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the neonatal immune system is relatively immature, particularly in its adaptive arm, placing the primary responsibility for immune surveillance on innate immunity.

Methods

Given the significant role of neutrophils in protecting the neonate after birth, we conducted a study investigating the properties of neutrophils in newborn cord blood using various methodological approaches.

Results

Our findings demonstrate the presence of immature low-density neutrophils in the cord blood, which are likely responsible for the observed elevated expression of genes coding for proteins essential to antimicrobial response, including myeloperoxidase, neutrophils elastase, and defensins.

Discussion

We propose that these cells function normally and support the protection of newborns early after birth. Furthermore, our results suggest that the mode of delivery might significantly influence the programming of neutrophil function. The presented findings emphasize the importance of distinct neutrophil subpopulations in neonatal immunity and their potential impact on early postnatal health.
Human surfactant protein A inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and alleviates lung injury in a mouse infection model
Authors: Jacob Ikechukwu B. , Gemmiti Amanda , Xiong Weichuan , Reynolds Erin , Nicholas Brian , Thangamani Saravanan , Jia Hongpeng , Wang Guirong
Published: March 2024

Introduction

SARS coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infects human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2)-expressing lung epithelial cells through its spike (S) protein. The S protein is highly glycosylated and could be a target for lectins. Surfactant protein A (SP-A) is a collagen-containing C-type lectin, expressed by mucosal epithelial cells and mediates its antiviral activities by binding to viral glycoproteins.

Objective

This study examined the mechanistic role of human SP-A in SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and lung injury in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Human SP-A can bind both SARS-CoV-2 S protein and hACE2 in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.01). Pre-incubation of SARS-CoV-2 (Delta) with human SP-A inhibited virus binding and entry and reduced viral load in human lung epithelial cells, evidenced by the dose-dependent decrease in viral RNA, nucleocapsid protein (NP), and titer (p<0.01). We observed significant weight loss, increased viral burden, and mortality rate, and more severe lung injury in SARS-CoV-2 infected hACE2/SP-A KO mice (SP-A deficient mice with hACE2 transgene) compared to infected hACE2/mSP-A (K18) and hACE2/hSP-A1 (6A2) mice (with both hACE2 and human SP-A1 transgenes) 6 Days Post-infection (DPI). Furthermore, increased SP-A level was observed in the saliva of COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls (p<0.05), but severe COVID-19 patients had relatively lower SP-A levels than moderate COVID-19 patients (p<0.05).

Discussion

Collectively, human SP-A attenuates SARS-CoV-2-induced acute lung injury (ALI) by directly binding to the S protein and hACE2, and inhibiting its infectivity; and SP-A level in the saliva of COVID-19 patients might serve as a biomarker for COVID-19 severity.
Retinal detachment with multiple macrocysts in Stickler syndrome: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Liu Guina , Hu Ming , Cai Chengcheng , Jiang Xiaoshuang , Lu Fang
Published: March 2024

Background

Stickler syndrome is a hereditary connective tissue disorder associated with ocular, orofacial, musculoskeletal, and auditory impairments. Its main clinical characteristics include retinal detachment, hearing loss, and midface underdevelopment. In clinical practice, macrocyst is rarely reported in retinal detachment cases with Stickler syndrome.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 7-year-old child who developed a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in the right eye, accompanied by multiple peripheral macrocysts. The detachment was successfully surgically repaired with vitrectomy, retinal laser photocoagulation, cryotherapy and silicone oil tamponade. During the operation, a mini-retinectomy in the outer layer of each macrocyst was made for vesicular drainage and retinal reattachment. Genetic testing identified a pathogenic point mutation variant (c.1693C>T; p.Arg565Cys) in exon 26 of the COL2A1 gene. Six-months after the operation, the retina remained attached with improvement of best corrected visual acuity to 20/200.

Conclusion

Patients with Stickler syndrome may develop RRD of different severity. Macrocyst is rarely reported in previous literature of Stickler syndrome. In this case report, we share our experience in treating with multiple macrocysts in RRD and emphasize the importance of periodic follow-up for patients with Stickler syndrome.
Bacillus coagulans regulates gut microbiota and ameliorates the alcoholic-associated liver disease in mice
Authors: Liu Zhenzhen , Liu Tong , Zhang Zhenting , Fan Yurong
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Alcoholic-associated liver diseases (ALD) are now widespread issues worldwide. Alcoholic-induced chronic dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is one of the factors in the pathophysiology of ALD.

Methods

In this work, we employed a chronic-binge ethanol feeding mice model, as described in a previous report.

Results

Our findings demonstrate that hepatic inflammatory injury damage and accumulation of fat can be effectively reduced in mice with ALD by altering the gut microbiota utilizing Bacillus coagulans. Treatment with B. coagulans significantly modulates the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-22 cytokines while maintaining tight junction proteins and mucin protein expressions to support intestinal barrier function restoration. Treatment with B. coagulans also alters the composition of the gut microbiota and increases the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

Discussion

This is mostly due to B. coagulans promotes the growth of bacteria that produce SCFAs, such as Ruminococcus species and Akkermansia, while inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria like Escherichia Shigella. Moreover, treatment with B. coagulans causes levels of 2-Ketobutyric acid, ketoleucine, and indoleacetic acid increase while homovanillic acid and 3’-O-Methylguanosine metabolites decrease significantly. This study facilitates the development of therapeutic and preventive strategies for ALD using lactic acid bacteria.
Tick-borne Rickettsia, Anaplasma, Theileria, and enzootic nasal tumor virus in ruminant, PET, and poultry animals in Pakistan
Authors: Jamil Anjum , Yu Ze , Wang Yuxin , Xin Qing , Gao Shan , Abdul Wahab Muhammad , Han Xiaohu , Chen Zeliang
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Pakistan is an agricultural country; most of its income is based on livestock rearing. The increasing prevalence of tick-borne pathogens among animals may affect the animal production and livelihood of owners, which eventually derange the economy of a country.

Methodology

To further comprehend TBPs, 213 ticks were collected from different animals, including ruminants, pets, and poultry. After molecular and phylogenetic analysis identification, ticks were managed into different pools based on their species level (Hyalomma anatolicum = 80, Rhipicephalus microplus = 35, Hyalomma scupense = 23, Rhipicephalus turanicus = 70, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus = 5).

Results and discussion

After tick species identification, further molecular PCR amplification was carried out to screen out the pathogens for the presence of Theileria, Rickettsia, Anaplasma, and enzootic nasal tumor virus (ENTV). The following pathogens were detected: 11 (5.16%) for Anaplasma, 1 (0.47%) for Rickettsia, and 9 (4.23%) for Theileria. Nevertheless, other TBPs that had not been reported so far in Pakistan 3 (1.41%), were positive for enzootic nasal tumor virus (ENTV). Besides, phylogenetic analysis of the enzootic nasal tumor virus (ENTV) strain confirmed its resemblance to the Chinese strain, while Anaplasma has comparability with Pakistan and China, Rickettsia with Pakistan, China, and Iran, and Theileria with India, South Africa, United States, Japan, and Spain.

Conclusion

This study reveals that there is a considerably wider range of TBPs held in Pakistan that take in various contagious zoonotic pathogens than was previously thought. This information advances TBP epidemiology and will contribute to upgrade future control measure.
Brain-inspired semantic data augmentation for multi-style images
Authors: Wang Wei , Shang Zhaowei , Li Chengxing
Published: March 2024

Data augmentation is an effective technique for automatically expanding training data in deep learning. Brain-inspired methods are approaches that draw inspiration from the functionality and structure of the human brain and apply these mechanisms and principles to artificial intelligence and computer science. When there is a large style difference between training data and testing data, common data augmentation methods cannot effectively enhance the generalization performance of the deep model. To solve this problem, we improve modeling Domain Shifts with Uncertainty (DSU) and propose a new brain-inspired computer vision image data augmentation method which consists of two key components, namely, using Robust statistics and controlling the Coefficient of variance for DSU (RCDSU) and Feature Data Augmentation (FeatureDA). RCDSU calculates feature statistics (mean and standard deviation) with robust statistics to weaken the influence of outliers, making the statistics close to the real values and improving the robustness of deep learning models. By controlling the coefficient of variance, RCDSU makes the feature statistics shift with semantic preservation and increases shift range. FeatureDA controls the coefficient of variance similarly to generate the augmented features with semantics unchanged and increase the coverage of augmented features. RCDSU and FeatureDA are proposed to perform style transfer and content transfer in the feature space, and improve the generalization ability of the model at the style and content level respectively. On Photo, Art Painting, Cartoon, and Sketch (PACS) multi-style classification task, RCDSU plus FeatureDA achieves competitive accuracy. After adding Gaussian noise to PACS dataset, RCDSU plus FeatureDA shows strong robustness against outliers. FeatureDA achieves excellent results on CIFAR-100 image classification task. RCDSU plus FeatureDA can be applied as a novel brain-inspired semantic data augmentation method with implicit robot automation which is suitable for datasets with large style differences between training and testing data.
Hamiltonian energy in a modified Hindmarsh–Rose model
Authors: Zheng Qianqian , Xu Yong , Shen Jianwei
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the Hamiltonian energy of a modified Hindmarsh–Rose (HR) model to observe its effect on short-term memory. A Hamiltonian energy function and its variable function are given in the reduced system with a single node according to Helmholtz’s theorem. We consider the role of the coupling strength and the links between neurons in the pattern formation to show that the coupling and cooperative neurons are necessary for generating the fire or a clear short-term memory when all the neurons are in sync. Then, we consider the effect of the degree and external stimulus from other neurons on the emergence and disappearance of short-term memory, which illustrates that generating short-term memory requires much energy, and the coupling strength could further reduce energy consumption. Finally, the dynamical mechanisms of the generation of short-term memory are concluded.
Assessment of fetal corpus callosum biometry by 3D super-resolution reconstructed T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Lamon Samuel , de Dumast Priscille , Sanchez Thomas , Dunet Vincent , Pomar Léo , Vial Yvan , Koob Mériam , Bach Cuadra Meritxell
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess the accuracy of corpus callosum (CC) biometry, including sub-segments, using 3D super-resolution fetal brain MRI (SR) compared to 2D or 3D ultrasound (US) and clinical low-resolution T2-weighted MRI (T2WS).

Method

Fetal brain biometry was conducted by two observers on 57 subjects [21–35 weeks of gestational age (GA)], including 11 cases of partial CC agenesis. Measures were performed by a junior observer (obs1) on US, T2WS and SR and by a senior neuroradiologist (obs2) on T2WS and SR. CC biometric regression with GA was established. Statistical analysis assessed agreement within and between modalities and observers.

Results

This study shows robust SR to US concordance across gestation, surpassing T2WS. In obs1, SR aligns with US, except for genu and CC length (CCL), enhancing splenium visibility. In obs2, SR closely corresponds to US, differing in rostrum and CCL. The anterior CC (rostrum and genu) exhibits higher variability. SR’s regression aligns better with literature (US) for CCL, splenium and body than T2WS. SR is the method with the least missing values.

Conclusion

SR yields CC biometry akin to US (excluding anterior CC). Thanks to superior 3D visualization and better through plane spatial resolution, SR allows to perform CC biometry more frequently than T2WS.
Clinical roles of EGFR amplification in diffuse gliomas: a real-world study using the 2021 WHO classification of CNS tumors
Authors: Wang Hai , Zhang Xin , Liu Jiahui , Chen Wenlin , Guo Xiaopeng , Wang Yaning , Wang Yuekun , Xing Hao , Liang Tingyu , Shi Yixin , Liu Delin , Yang Tianrui , Xia Yu , Li Junlin , Wu Jiaming , Liu Qianshu , Qu Tian , Guo Siying , Li Huanzhang , Zhang Kun , Li Yilin , Jin Shanmu , Zhao Dachun , Wang Yu , Ma Wenbin
Published: March 2024

Background

The 2021 World Health Organization Classification of Central Nervous System Tumors updates glioma subtyping and grading system, and incorporates EGFR amplification (Amp) as one of diagnostic markers for glioblastoma (GBM).

Purpose

This study aimed to describe the frequency, clinical value and molecular correlation of EGFR Amp in diffuse gliomas based on the latest classification.

Methods

We reviewed glioma patients between 2011 and 2022 at our hospital, and included 187 adult glioma patients with available tumor tissue for detection of EGFR Amp and other 59 molecular markers of interest. Clinical, radiological and pathological data was analyzed based on the status of EGFR Amp in different glioma subtypes.

Results

163 gliomas were classified as adult-type diffuse gliomas, and the number of astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma and GBM was 41, 46, and 76. EGFR Amp was more common in IDH-wildtype diffuse gliomas (66.0%) and GBM (85.5%) than IDH-mutant diffuse gliomas (32.2%) and its subtypes (astrocytoma, 29.3%; oligodendroglioma, 34.8%). EGFR Amp did not stratify overall survival (OS) in IDH-mutant diffuse gliomas and astrocytoma, while was significantly associated with poorer OS in IDH-wildtype diffuse gliomas, histologic grade 2 and 3 IDH-wildtype diffuse astrocytic gliomas and GBM.

Conclusion

Our study validated EGFR Amp as a diagnostic marker for GBM and still a useful predictor for shortened OS in this group.
The brain entropy dynamics in resting state
Authors: Xin Xiaoyang , Yu Jiaqian , Gao Xiaoqing
Published: March 2024

As a novel measure for irregularity and complexity of the spontaneous fluctuations of brain activities, brain entropy (BEN) has attracted much attention in resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) studies during the last decade. Previous studies have shown its associations with cognitive and mental functions. While most previous research assumes BEN is approximately stationary during scan sessions, the brain, even at its resting state, is a highly dynamic system. Such dynamics could be characterized by a series of reoccurring whole-brain patterns related to cognitive and mental processes. The present study aims to explore the time-varying feature of BEN and its potential links with general cognitive ability. We adopted a sliding window approach to derive the dynamical brain entropy (dBEN) of the whole-brain functional networks from the HCP (Human Connectome Project) rs-fMRI dataset that includes 812 young healthy adults. The dBEN was further clustered into 4 reoccurring BEN states by the k-means clustering method. The fraction window (FW) and mean dwell time (MDT) of one BEN state, characterized by the extremely low overall BEN, were found to be negatively correlated with general cognitive abilities (i.e., cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and processing speed). Another BEN state, characterized by intermediate overall BEN and low within-state BEN located in DMN, ECN, and part of SAN, its FW, and MDT were positively correlated with the above cognitive abilities. The results of our study advance our understanding of the underlying mechanism of BEN dynamics and provide a potential framework for future investigations in clinical populations.
Food allergy issues among consumers: a comprehensive review
Authors: Sansweet Samantha , Jindal Ria , Gupta Ruchi
Published: March 2024

Food Allergy (FA) is a growing global public health concern. In the United States alone, 8% of children and 11% of adults have a convincing FA (symptoms consistent with an IgE-mediated reaction to a specific allergen). Given the significant prevalence of this condition, the objective of this mini-review is to illustrate the many dimensions of life that are impacted among those with FA. Summarizing findings from a breadth of current literature, we present how FA affects social, psychological, and economic-related quality of life. With this informative review, we endeavor to bring increased awareness to these issues and help cultivate a better future for individuals with FA.
Status of mental and social activities of young and middle-aged patients after papillary thyroid cancer surgery
Authors: Chen Songhao , Hu Xi’e , Yang Ping , Yang Lin , Peng Shujia , He Li , Yuan Lijuan , Bao Guoqiang
Published: March 2024

Background

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is prevalent among younger populations and has a favorable survival rate. However, a significant number of patients experience psychosocial stress and a reduced quality of life (QoL) after surgical treatment. Therefore, comprehensive evaluations of the patients are essential to improve their recovery.

Methods

The present study enrolled 512 young and middle-aged patients diagnosed with PTC who underwent surgery at our institution between September 2020 and August 2021. Each participant completed a series of questionnaires: Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7), European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), Thyroid Cancer-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (THYCA-QoL), and Readiness to Return-to-Work Scale (RRTW).

Results

GAD-7 data showed that almost half of the study subjects were experiencing anxiety. Regarding health-related quality of life (HRQoL), participants reported the highest levels of fatigue, insomnia, voice problems, and scarring, with patients in anxious states reporting worse symptoms. Based on RRTW, more than half of the subjects had returned to work and had better HRQoL compared to the others who were evaluating a possible return to work. Age, gender, BMI, education, diet, residence, health insurance, months since surgery, monthly income, and caregiver status were significantly correlated with return to work. Additionally, having a caregiver, higher monthly income, more time since surgery, and living in a city or village were positively associated with return to work.

Conclusion

Young and middle-aged patients with PTC commonly experience a range of health-related issues and disease-specific symptoms following surgery, accompanied by inferior psychological well-being, HRQoL, and work readiness. It is crucial to prioritize timely interventions targeting postoperative psychological support, HRQoL improvement, and the restoration of working ability in PTC patients.
Engineered exosomes in emerging cell-free therapy
Authors: Si Chaohua , Gao Jianen , Ma Xu
Published: March 2024

The discovery and use of exosomes ushered in a new era of cell-free therapy. Exosomes are a subgroup of extracellular vesicles that show great potential in disease treatment. Engineered exosomes. with their improved functions have attracted intense interests of their application in translational medicine research. However, the technology of engineering exosomes still faces many challenges which have been the great limitation for their clinical application. This review summarizes the current status of research on engineered exosomes and the difficulties encountered in recent years, with a view to providing new approaches and ideas for future exosome modification and new drug development.
The role of the cartilaginous to osseous acetabular angle ratio in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Li Tianyou , Yao Yangyang , Lu Chaoqun , Wang Yanzhou
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to demonstrate the use of the cartilaginous to osseous acetabular angle ratio (AAR) in surgical decision-making for hip dysplasia.

Methods

Data were collected from patients who underwent an MRI of the hip after conservative treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip between August 2019 and 2022. The data included demographic information as well as an anteroposterior pelvic radiograph. The osseous acetabular index (OAI) was measured using x-ray, while the cartilaginous acetabular index (CAI) and the cartilaginous acetabulum head index (CAHI) were measured using MRI. The square of the CAI to OAI, AAR, was calculated. The patients in the residual hip dysplasia (RHD) group were categorized as having an OAI above 20°. During the postoperative follow-up, we evaluated the patients in this group who underwent Bernese triple pelvic osteotomy. Data on surgical patients with an observation period that exceeded 1 year were collected and analyzed. The distribution of the AAR among the different groups was analyzed. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) predictive model was constructed using the AAR of the patients in the normal and surgical groups to evaluate the need for surgery.

Results

It was found that there was a significant difference in the OAI, CAI, CAHI, and AAR between the RHD group (OAI 26.15 ± 3.90°, CAI 11.71 ± 4.70°, CAHI 79.75 ± 6.27%, and AAR 5.88 ± 4.24) and the control group patients (OAI 16.77 ± 5.39°, CAI 6.16 ± 3.13°, CAHI 85.05 ± 4.91%, and AAR 2.71 ± 2.08) (p < 0.001). A total of 93.5% of the control group patients had an AAR ≤5, while only 6.5% had an AAR >5. The results of postoperative imaging follow-up were “excellent” in 52 patients and “good” in 3, while the functional follow-up results were excellent in 53 and good in 2. In 15 patients, the observation period exceeded 1 year. The mean observation period was 633.1 ± 259.6 days and the preoperative CAHI was 71.7 ± 4.8%. Of the patients with an AAR >5, a substantial 94.8% (55/58) of them were reported to have undergone surgery, while all patients with an AAR less than or equal to 5 did not undergo surgery (91/91). Based on the ROC, a cutoff value of 5.09 was identified for the need for surgery in children with RHD.

Conclusions

A surgical decision for residual hip dysplasia can be based on the AAR. An AAR >5 may be a potential indicator for surgical intervention in patients with RHD.
Effect of uric acid reduction on chronic kidney disease. Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Casanova Alfredo G. , Morales Ana I. , Vicente-Vicente Laura , López-Hernández Francisco J.
Published: March 2024

Accumulating evidence suggests that hyperuricemia is a pathological factor in the development and progression of chronic kidney disease. However, the potential benefit afforded by the control of uric acid (UA) is controversial. Individual studies show discrepant results, and most existing meta-analysis, especially those including the larger number of studies, lack a placebo or control group as they aim to compare efficacy between drugs. On these grounds, we performed a me-ta-analysis restricted to studies including the action of any anti-gout therapies referenced to a control or placebo arm. This approach allows for a clearer association between UA reduction and renal effect. Of the twenty-nine papers included, most used allopurinol and febuxostat and, therefore, solid conclusions could only be obtained for these drugs. Both were very effective in reducing UA, but only allopurinol was able to significantly improve glomerular filtration rate (GFR), although not in a dose-dependent manner. These results raised doubts as to whether it is the hypouricemic effect of anti-gout drugs, or a pleiotropic effect, what provides protection of kidney function. Accordingly, in a correlation study that we next performed between UA reduction and GFR improvement, no association was found, which suggests that additional mechanisms may be involved. Of note, most trials show large inter-individual response variability, probably because they included patients with heterogeneous phenotypes and pathological characteristics, including different stages of CKD and comorbidities. This highlights the need to sub classify the effect of UA-lowering therapies according to the pathological scenario, in order to identify those CKD patients that may benefit most from them.

Systematic Review Registration: CRD42022306646 https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/