bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of rheumatoid arthritis on ventricular structure and function: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Hao , Luo Di , Yan Wei , Li Jinsong , Yan Dezhi
Published: September 2024

Several observational studies have suggested an association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and abnormalities of ventricular structure and function, yet the causal relationship remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the causal association between seropositive and seronegative RA and ventricular structure and function via Mendelian randomization (MR). Genetic data were derived from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of seropositive and seronegative RA conducted within the FinnGen study, and a GWAS of 16 biventricular functional and structural cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) measurements involving subjects from the UK Biobank. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) served as the primary analytical strategy to determine the causal associations between seropositive RA, seronegative RA, and ventricular CMR parameters. The MR-Egger, weighted median (WME), weighted mode (WM), and sample mode (SM) methods were employed as supplementary analyses. Additionally, the direct effects of RA on ventricular structure and function were further explored via multivariate MR (MVMR). IVW methods demonstrated that genetically predicted seropositive RA was significantly associated with a reduced left ventricular (LV) stroke volume (adjusted without body surface area (BSA) and systolic blood pressure (SBP)) (OR = 0.635; 95%CI 0.482–0.837; P = 0.001). MVMR analysis indicated that seropositive RA could influence LV stroke volume independently of traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors (OR = 0.695; 95%CI 0.512–0.942; P = 0.019). Sensitivity analyses yielded robust and reliable results. Our genetic analyses revealed a significant causal relationship between the development of seropositive RA and reduced LV stroke volume, offering valuable insights into the prevention and treatment of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with RA.
Feedback Linearization for Robust Deadzone Compensation: Application to LQR-Controlled Cart-Pole System
Authors: Rabie Omar , Elshalakani Mohamed
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a feedback linearization approach for robust compensation of deadzones in nonlinear mechatronic systems, demonstrating its effectiveness through a case study of a cart-pole system controlled by the Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR). While the LQR controller offers optimal performance for linear systems, the inherent nonlinearities, deadzone effects, and limit cycles present in non-ideal underactuated systems can significantly compromise its robustness. The proposed deadzone compensation technique aims to augment the LQR controller robustness and resilience to uncertainties while maintaining its inherent optimality and stability. The present solution enforces the linearity of the driving motion unit of the cart-pole system, therefore boosting its asymptotic stability. The deadzone compensator can experimentally eliminate limit cycles arising from different sources of deadzone, restoring the desired converging behaviour of the control system. Over 90% attenuation of the limit cycles could be consistently achieved in the closed loop stabilized response of the physical system.
Identification of multiple miRNA-encoded peptide reveals OsmiPEP162a stabilizes OsMIR162 in rice
Authors: Zhou Jianping , Zhang Rui , Han Qinqing , Yang Hongjun , Wang Wei , Wang Yibo , Zheng Xuelian , Luo Fan , Cai Guangze , Zhang Yong
Published: September 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are derivatives of primary miRNAs (pri-miRNAs) and govern the expression of target genes. Plant pri-miRNAs encode regulatory peptides known as miPEPs, which specifically boost the transcription of their originating pri-miRNA. Although there are hundreds of pri-miRNAs in rice, research on whether they encode functional peptides is limited. In this study, we identified 10 certainly expressional miPEPs using a transient protoplast expression system. Among these, we focused our attention on OsmiPEP162a, which influences growth. OsmiPEP162a-edited plants exhibited reduced plant height, similar to mature OsmiR162-edited plants. Transcriptome-focused molecular analysis unveiled significant alterations in transcription profiles following the depletion of OsmiPEP162a. Additionally, knocking out OsmiPEP162a led to decreased expression levels of mature OsMIR162a and OsMIR162b. This study suggests that OsmiPEP162a potentially plays a crucial role in stabilizing mature OsMIR162.
Hyperprolactinemia prevents short- and long-term memory deficits in ovariectomized rats and modifies the neuronal morphology of hippocampal CA1 neurons.
Authors: Paniagua-Alegría Verónica , Suárez-Santiago José Eduardo , Cerbón Marco Antonio , Vera-Arzave Carlos , Roldán-Roldán Gabriel , Orozco-Suárez Sandra , Picazo Ofir
Published: September 2024

The pituitary hormone prolactin (PRL) has been traditionally associated to reproductive functions, specifically to lactogenesis. Currently, this hormone has been linked to a great diversity of brain processes such as neurogenesis, neuroprotection, learning and memory formation. Regarding this later, literature is controversial since some studies indicate that PRL, like estrogens, improve some types of memory, while other report the opposite. Implanting pituitary homografts under the renal capsule induces a 10-fold increase of plasmatic PRL in male rats, but its effect on females is unknown. On the other hand, long-term (15 weeks) removal of ovaries produces a clear deficit in memory function by avoiding the action of estrogens and progesterone on this process. The present study was aimed at exploring the putative pro-cognitive actions of endogenous PRL and its role on the morphology of pyramidal neurons from hippocampus. The novel object recognition test, a hippocampal and cortical-dependent memory task was used for evaluating short- and long-term memory, while bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agonist, was assayed to block the actions of PRL on behavioral and morphological parameters. Main results indicate that PRL prevents the cognitive deficit observed in ovariectomized rats and increases the mushroom spines in CA1 pyramidal neurons; an effect that was partially impeded by bromocriptine.
Characteristics and Factors Associated with Diameter Deviation of Rhexis Reference Circle Generated by an Image-Guided System in Cataract Surgery: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fu Yabo , Huang Yulong , Liu Xiaobao , Kang Chishan , Wu Wenjie , Li Qiong
Published: September 2024

More attention should be paid to the deviations between the actual diameter of the rhexis reference circle which projected by the Image-guided systems and its intended size, and assess the influence of ocular biometric parameters on the deviation. In this study, the Callisto eye image-guided system was employed to generate a digital rhexis reference circle (rhexis overlay) set at an intended diameter of 6 mm and a screenshot of the video was taken at the end of the cataract surgery, then to compare the deviation between the observed rhexis overlay diameter (ROD) and the optic diameter (6 mm) . The factors influencing diameter deviation were identified with univariate and multivariate linear regression. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on factors identified in the multivariate regression. And we observed that a total of 213 eyes of 174 patients were included in the final analysis. The diameter deviation averaged -0.24 ±0.28 mm (P = 0.0001) and was positively correlated with phakic anterior chamber depth (ACD) (P < 0.001) and negatively correlated with white-to-white (WTW) measurement (P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed significantly greater diameter deviation in cases with preoperative ACD < 2.5 mm and WTW ≥ 12.0 mm (all P < 0.05). Following optimization, the mean diameter deviation was 0.00047 ± 0.26 mm (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the Callisto eye image-guided system demonstrates good precision in CCC assistance. However, there remains a slight deviation from the intended size when generating the rhexis reference circle in eyes with shallow anterior chambers and larger corneas. Implementing an optimization process could be beneficial for these eyes.
Identification and Functional Validation of ACSL1 as a Biomarker Regulating Ferroptosis in Nucleus Pulposus Cell
Authors: Zhou Yichi , Wang Ke , Ren Min , Wang Jiebin , Wang Fanglin , Zhuang Bingbing , Chen Lin , Wang Changsheng , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: September 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder characterized by the deterioration of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, leading to symptoms that significantly impact patients' quality of life. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying IVDD is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we employed Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) to identify key module eigengenes (MEs) from the GSE124272 dataset, followed by differential gene expression analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional enrichment analysis indicated that MEs were linked to lipid metabolism and immune response, while DEGs were related to immune response and cell proliferation. By intersecting MEs, DEGs, and ferroptosis-related genes, we identified six hub genes (ACSL1, BACH1, CBS, CP, AKR1C1, AKR1C3). Consensus clustering analysis categorized samples into two immune-related subgroups, C1 and C2, with subsequent single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) revealing distinct immune scores between the two subgroups. Notably, ACSL1 exhibited the highest correlation with immune cell infiltration, and its expression was significantly upregulated in the C1 subgroup, correlating with elevated immune scores. In vitro experiments validated increased expression of ACSL1 in the IL-1β-induced degenerative NP cell model, and silencing of ACSL1 resulted in improvements in cell viability, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular Fe2+, MDA, and GSH levels. Collectively, these findings suggest that ACSL1 serves as a biomarker for IVDD and may represent a potential therapeutic target for IVDD treatment.
The plausibility of claimed induced seismicity
Authors: Wilkinson Max , Mhana Najwa , Wilson Miles P. , Foulger Gillian R. , Tezel Timur , Gluyas Jon G.
Published: September 2024

Claims of industrially induced seismicity vary from indisputable to unpersuasive and the veracity of industrial induction is vital for regulatory and operational practice. Assessment schemes have been developed in response to measure the reliability of cases. We report here application of a standardised scheme E-PIE by a single seismologist to the HiQuake database of all known cases globally. 1235 cases were studied over around 1000 hours. Evidence relating to the temporal and spatial earthquake distributions tended to provide the strongest evidence for human-induction and information regarding nearby pre-industrial seismicity tended to undermine claims of induction. Of the 881 cases presenting scorable evidence, 87% fall within the category ‘Confidently Induced’, 10% were ‘Probably Induced’, 2% were ‘Equivocal’ and <1% were ‘Confidently Natural’. The most-seismogenic activities are fracking, research, geothermal, water reservoir impoundment, and conventional oil and gas. The least-seismogenic activities are construction, deep penetrating bombs and coal bed methane. 29% lack evidence required for assessment and significant potential exists to increase understanding by applying data mining techniques including natural language processing and AI to uncover new evidence. Best practice may be an independent panel of scientists who rapidly apply a questionnaire scheme, draw consensus, and inform a response.
Accelerating Birth Equity using Collaborative Systems Mapping
Authors: Thomas Sharita , Fatima Hiba , Simon Jessica , Hogan Vijaya , Lich Kristen Hasmiller
Published: September 2024

Background
Recognizing the complexity of cross-sector collaboration, holistic and innovative approaches are required to achieve birth equity. This project applied systems thinking and the Remove, Repair, Remediate, Restructure, and Provide (R4P) framework to understand and address systemic barriers to birth equity. This paper describes the systems thinking activities used to identify system actors and critical actions they can take to advance birth equity.
Methods
We applied systems thinking tools through the R4P lens in a series of collaborative and iterative activities. We conducted an environmental scan and synthesis of reports with recommendations to improve birth equity. Additionally, we engaged a diverse group of birth equity actors including those from federal agencies, state and local health departments, community-based organizations, funders, academic institutions, health systems, and national non-profits through systems mapping workshops to co-create a series of birth equity tools.
Results
Our collaborative efforts produced an innovative Birth Equity Ecosystem Map, Birth Equity Iceberg, and interactive Birth Equity Action Map. The Birth Equity Ecosystem Map is a comprehensive synthesis of recommendations defining an equitable ecosystem, while the Birth Equity Iceberg summarizes insights on systemic barriers to achieving birth equity most critical to address in the next five years. The Birth Equity Action Map is an interactive and strategic tool, synthesized from diverse system actors’ experiences and perspectives, that describes needed actions and responsible actors for each systemic barrier identified. We probed for and organized actions by the five dimensions of the R4P framework to encourage comprehensive action to achieve equity. The Birth Equity Action Map and connected resources developed through this project help actors identify actions they can work on to overcome identified systemic barriers to birth equity in their community and key partners for each.
Conclusions
The tools we developed demonstrate how systems thinking and R4P can offer a more holistic and effective approach to tackling issues of birth equity and lead to more actionable insights, thereby contributing significantly to the public health goal of achieving equity. These tools can be used by birth equity advocates to assess and leverage their strengths, resources, and unique context to identify priorities and collectively advance birth equity.
Plummer-Vinson Syndrome in a Young African Woman
Authors: Dadi Zewdu Hurissa , Tekle Mengesha Akale , Hirko Gezahegn Kefyalew
Published: September 2024

Plummer–Vinson syndrome (PVS) is a classic triadof iron deficiency anemia, dysphagia, and esophageal webs. It is an uncommon causeof dysphagia that classically affects middle-aged women. The literature on PVS is very limited. Here,we present a rare case of PVS in a 20-year-old African womanwho presented with easy fatiguability, lightheadedness, and dysphagia for several weeks. She had pale conjunctiva on physical examinationand iron deficiency anemia with a hemoglobin level of 6.3 g/dL, a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of 61.4 fL, a red blood cell width distribution (RDW) of 24.2%, and a ferritin level of 10.3 ng/ml.A bariumswallow revealed a proximal esophageal web. Her dysphagia significantly improved after one month of oral iron supplementation. Even though PVS is a rare clinical condition, it is worth consideringit as a cause of these problemsin clinical practice.
Gradient Pinch Mode of Magnetorheological Fluids: Effect of Material Composition
Authors: Žáček Jiří , Strecker Zbyněk , Jeniš Filip , Macháček Ondřej , Goldasz Janusz , Sapinski Bogdan , Vrbka Martin , Kubík Michal
Published: September 2024

Magnetorheological (MR) fluids can be utilized in one of the fundamental operating modes of which the gradient pinch mode has been the least explored. In this unique mode non-uniform magnetic field distributions are taken advantage of to develop a so-called Venturi-like contraction in MR fluids. By adequately directing magnetic flux the material can be made solidified in the regions near the flow channel wall, thus creating a passage in the middle of the channel for the fluid to pass through. This leads to unique variations of the slope in the pressure-flow rate characteristics. It can be stated that the effect of the MR fluid composition on the behaviour of the MR fluid in gradient pinch mode has not been thoroughly investigated yet. In this study, the behaviour of MR fluids was assessed with a dedicated pinch mode MR valve that provided a valuable insight into the contraction mechanism using fluorescence microscopy. Briefly, seven MR fluid samples were prepared with different particle concentrations (10 %, 22 % and 32 vol. %) and mean particle sizes (2, 4.5 and 8.2 µm). It was found that the MR fluid sample with the larger particle size exhibits a significantly larger slope change observed in the pressure-flow rate characteristics. Increasing the particle size from 2 µm (base) to 8 µm resulted in the slope increase by a factor of 2.6 compared to the base sample. Increasing the particle concentration has a negligible effect on the pinch mode effect. Finally, these results were analysed using the modified Wuest equation, which is commonly used for characterizing sharp-edged orifices in low Reynolds number flow regimes. The simple equation was determined to describe the behaviour of MR fluids in gradient pinch mode with adequate accuracy.
The accessibility of General Practice websites assessed by patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Beckers Rianne , Schoenmakers Birgitte
Published: September 2024

Objectives: This study aims to gather patients’ perceptions regarding the accessibility of practice websites in Flanders.
Methods: This is a quantitative study with accessibility as dependent variable and age, readability, clarity, accessibility, actuality, interactivity and cultural sensitivity as independent variables. A patient questionnaire was designed for data collection.
Results: 83% (n = 417) found the website accessible; 96.40% (n = 417) found the site readable and 91.10% (380) well-organized. Only 40.30% (n = 417) found the site adapted to a multicultural society. Of those who rated the practice website as insufficiently accessible, there was a significantly larger proportion who found the site insufficiently adapted to a multicultural society (p = 0.000293), insufficiently well-organized (p = <0.00001;) or insufficiently readable (p = 0.00016).
Conclusion: Most respondents found the website accessible, readable and well-organized. There are notable shortcomings in cultural sensitivity, actuality and interactivity. Areas for improvement include incorporating symbols, language options, displaying update date and the use of paragraphs, bold or colored words.
Lay summary
In a study conducted in Flanders, most patients found healthcare websites easy to access, read, and navigate. However, the study highlighted significant gaps in cultural inclusivity, with only 40% of patients feeling the websites catered to a multicultural audience. Additionally, the websites lacked up-to-date content and interactive features. To enhance user experience, the study suggests adding multilingual options, clear update dates, and visually distinct text elements like symbols and colored words.
Residual metabolic burden in young psoriasis patients successfully treated with biologics
Authors: Šabović Eva Klara Merzel , Šumenjak Tadeja Kraner , Janić Miodrag
Published: September 2024

Metabolic disorders are common in patients with psoriasis and contribute significantly to an increased cardiovascular risk. While biologic therapy is very successful in clearing skin lesions, its impact on metabolic parameters is uncertain. Our aim was to investigate the residual dysmetabolic burden in psoriasis patients successfully treated with biologic therapy. We conducted a cross-sectional study with 80 young patients (54 men, 26 women, aged 30–45 years) who were successfully treated with either adalimumab, secukinumab or guselkumab and topical therapy or methotrexate, and 20 healthy controls. Anthropometric parameters, lipid levels and metabolic indices (HOMA-IR, TyG index and FIB-4 index) were measured. Patients did not receive any other treatments to exclude confounding effects. After analysis, we found that the patients treated with three different biologics had similar metabolic status, only the FIB-4 index was higher in the adalimumab group than in the secukinumab and guselkumab treatment groups. There were no significant differences between the patients treated with biologics and the control group. The comparison with patients treated topically or with methotrexate showed that only triglyceride levels, HOMA-IR, TyG, and FIB-4 were elevated in patients treated with adalimumab compared to patients treated with topical therapy. Finally, metabolic status was also similar in patients treated with methotrexate or topical therapy. In conclusion, this study suggests that psoriasis patients successfully treated with biologics have similar metabolic parameters to the control group and patients treated with topical therapy or methotrexate. This indicates that there is no significant residual dysmetabolic burden in young patients successfully treated with biologics. These results are clinically relevant and should be considered in the treatment of psoriasis patients. The study is registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov (identifier: NCT05957120). Date of registration: 24th of July 2023.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Low-Level Laser Therapy Effectiveness for Treating Hair Loss
Authors: Wang Yi-Fan , Chen Yu-Chiao
Published: September 2024

Millions worldwide suffer from hair loss, impacting appearance and self-esteem. This study evaluates 1550nm wavelength low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for hair loss treatment, focusing on efficacy, follicle health improvement, and optimal treatment parameters. In a controlled study, 68 participants with hair loss received bi-weekly LLLT over three months. The experimental group (n = 60) also had additional maintenance therapy. Evaluations at baseline, post-treatment, and up to nine months showed significant improvement in hair loss conditions, especially in the experimental group. LLLT proves effective in enhancing scalp health and promoting hair growth, with potential as a non-invasive and safe option for managing hair loss.
The Effectiveness of Individualized Blood Flow Restriction Training Following Patellar Fracture Surgery: A Pilot Study
Authors: Yang Mingming , Liang Bin , Zhao Xin , Wang Yang , Xue Mingyuan , Song Qipeng , Wang Dan
Published: September 2024

Background
Patellar fracture surgeries are associated with subsequent atrophy and weakness on the muscles of the lower limb. Individualized blood flow restriction training is progressively being recognized as a potential technique for improving muscular hypertrophy and accompanying strength in participants after surgery. This study aimed to investigating the overall feasibility and effectiveness of individualized blood flow restriction rehabilitation training for patients recovering from patellar fracture surgery.
Methods
A 47-year-old male (Participant 1, body mass: 65 kg, height: 1.75 m, body mass index: 21.2 kg/m2, 3 months post-patellar fracture surgery) and a 28-year-old female (Participant 2, body mass: 53 kg, height: 1.67 m, body mass index: 19.8 kg/m2, 3 months post-patellar fracture surgery) performed straight leg raises and leg extensions with individualized blood flow restriction for six weeks. The blood supply in the leg with patellar fracture was partially restricted by a thigh pressure cuff at 60% inflation of limb occlusion pressure. Peak torque of knee extensor, rectus femoris cross-sectional area, rectus femoris stiffness, and Lysholm score were measured at baseline and post-training.
Results
Compared with the baseline, the post-training peak torque of the knee extensor, rectus femoris cross-sectional area, rectus femoris stiffness, and Lysholm score of participant 1 in the leg with patellar fracture increased by 48.2%, 7.9%, 7.9%, and 23 points, respectively; those of participant 2 increased by 134.7%, 6.8%, 14.2%, and 30 points, respectively.
Conclusions
The results suggested that the individualized blood flow restriction rehabilitation training was feasible and effective for patients after surgery for patellar fracture, and it deserves further research with a big sample size to generalize the training program.
Trial registration
The Nanjing First Hospital's ethics committee accepted the research before the testing. The clinical test was documented with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05371431, Registered 08-20-2020, prospectively registered).
Trial registration
The Nanjing First Hospital's ethics committee accepted the research before the testing. The clinical test was documented with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05371431, Registered 08202020, prospectively registered).
Development of a depression severity diagnosis model through natural language processing by psychiatry clinical texts
Authors: Kim Myung-Gwan , Song ChanYoung , Wang DaWoon , Han HyunWook
Published: September 2024

Depression has surged in Korea, with 933,481 patients in 2021, a 35.1% increase since 2017. Globally, 5% of adults suffer from depression, resulting in over 700,000 suicides annually. However, Korea has only 29.5 mental health workers per 100,000 people, below the OECD average of 97.1. There is an increasing demand for mental illness diagnosis support systems internationally, and various research and development efforts are being attempted to alleviate mental illness. The problem of insufficient mental health human resources and treatment overload can be alleviated by medical artificial intelligence technology. We developed an artificial intelligence model for a clinical decision support system that determines the severity of depression using natural language data about depressive symptoms reported by patients treated in a psychiatric unit contained in our Clinical Data Warehouse (CDW). This study selected psychiatric depression patients from the Bundang CHA University Hospital CDW in South Korea between 2018 and 2022. Among them, 169 patients were diagnosed with mild depressive episodes, and 460 patients were diagnosed with moderate depressive episodes based on psychiatric symptom presentations. The control group utilized natural language datasets provided for artificial intelligence development on the AI Hub platform. The final analysis dataset consisted of Class 2: Moderate depression episode (460 patients), Class 1: Mild depression episode (169 patients), and Class 0: Normal (123,690 conversation sessions). Using this depression natural language dataset, we developed a model to classify depression severity. We applied various algorithms to accurately diagnose the severity of depression based solely on the symptoms reported by patients through psychiatric clinical texts, and selected the one with the highest numerical diagnostic accuracy and the best practical diagnostic classification. As a result, XGBoost showed the highest diagnostic accuracy, with an accuracy of 99.7%, precision of 99.6%, recall of 99.7%, and an F1 score of 99.6%. Additionally, the AUC was close to 1. Utilizing advanced medical artificial intelligence and natural language processing technology in the field of psychiatry can be greatly beneficial in assisting with the precise, personalized assessment of depression severity based on the content of what patients express.
CREPT is required for pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin
Authors: Wang Jiayu , Sheng Jian , Liu Sihan , Li Jianghua , Chu Jun , Wang Minghan , Wang Yinyin , Ren Fangli , Cao Chenxi , Wang Xiaoguang , Chang Zhijie
Published: September 2024

Background
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic and progressive disease that originates from interstitial lung diseases and ultimately exhibits respiratory failure in patients. The disease is characterized by focal accumulation and excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM) from over-activated fibroblasts in the lung. Although many extrinsic factors have been identified to boost fibroblast proliferation and activation, it remains unclear how fibrosis is regulated by intrinsic factors.
Methods
Pulmonary fibrosis mouse model was induced by intratracheal injection of bleomycin (BLM) into CREPTWT and CREPTKO mice. In vitro study, the proliferation of mouse lung fibroblasts (MLFs) was assessed using CCK-8 assays and expression of fibrotic protein was examined following transforming growth factor (TGF)-β stimulation in MLFs.
Results
In this study, we found that deletion of CREPT alleviated BLM induced pulmonary fibrosis. Deletion of CREPT resulted in attenuated murine lung fibroblast proliferation, TGF-β-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast activation, and ECM deposition. Consistently, deletion of CREPT decreased the expression of fibrotic marker genes such as a-SMA, Col1a1, and FN1 but had no influence on the inflammation response upon the BLM challenge.
Conclusions
In summary, we report that CREPT is required for BLM induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Our study unravels an intrinsic molecular mechanism for the development of pulmonary fibrosis and provides a new target for the therapy of the interstitial lung disease.
A consortium of seven commensal bacteria promotes gut microbiota recovery and strengthens ecological barrier against Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci
Authors: Jan Alan , Bayle Perrine , Mohellibi Nacer , Lemoine Clara , Pepke Frederic , Beguet-Crespel Fabienne , Jouanin Isabelle , Tremblay-Franco Marie , Laroche Béatrice , Serror Pascale , Rigottier-Gois Lionel
Published: September 2024

Background
Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) often originate from the gastrointestinal tract, where their proliferation precedes dissemination into the bloodstream, and can lead to systemic infection. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for resistance to intestinal colonisation by VRE is essential for infection control. We aimed to identify commensal bacteria that enhance resistance to colonisation or act as an ecological barrier against VRE.
Results
We performed a longitudinal analysis of the gut microbiota composition and VRE carriage levels in mice colonised with VRE after antibiotic-induced dysbiosis. By combining biological data and mathematical modelling, we identified 15 molecular species (OTUs) that negatively correlated with VRE overgrowth. Six strains representative of these OTUs were used in mixture with a seventh strain (Mix7) in two different mouse lines challenged with VRE. Of the seven strains, three belonged to Lachnospiraceae, one to Muribaculaceae (Muribaculum intestinale YL27), one to Ruminococcaceae and two to Lactobacillaceae. We found that Mix7 led to a better recovery of the gut microbiota and reduced VRE carriage. Differences in the effect of Mix7 were observed between responder and non-responder mice. These differences were associated with variations in composition during recovery and initial microbiota, and represent potential biomarkers for predicting response to Mix7. In a mouse model of alternative stable state of dysbiosis, response to Mix7 was associated with higher concentrations of short-chain fatty acids and a range of metabolites, reflecting the recovery of the microbiota back to initial state. Furthermore, M. intestinale YL27 was required for the Mix7 effect in vivo with at least one of the other six strains. None of the supernatant of the 7 strains, alone or in combination, inhibited VRE growth in vitro. Interestingly, 5 strains belong to species shared between humans and mice, and the other two have human functional equivalents.
Conclusions
We show that supplementation with a mixture of commensal strains, identified by mathematical modelling, improves the ecological barrier effect against VRE through mechanisms dependent on recovery and initial composition of the microbiota. Ultimately, this work will enable a move towards a personalised medicine by targeting patients at risk and likely to respond to supplementation with commensal strains.
Systematic transcriptomic analysis of childhood medulloblastoma identifies N6- methyladenosine-dependent lncRNA signatures associated with molecular subtype, immune cell infiltration, and prognosis
Authors: Joshi Kandarp , Yuan Menglang , Katsushima Keisuke , Saulnier Olivier , Ray Animesh , Amankwah Ernest , Stapleton Stacie , Jallo George , Taylor Michael D. , Eberhart Charles G. , Perera Ranjan J.
Published: September 2024

Medulloblastoma, the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor, is classified into four main molecular subgroups, but group 3 and group 4 tumors are difficult to subclassify and have a poor prognosis. Rapid point-of-care diagnostic and prognostic assays are needed to improve medulloblastoma risk stratification and management. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a common RNA modification and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a central role in tumor progression, but their impact on gene expression and associated clinical outcomes in medulloblastoma are unknown. Here we analyzed 469 medulloblastoma tumor transcriptomes to identify lncRNAs co-expressed with m6A regulators. Using LASSO-Cox analysis, we identified a five-gene m6A-associated lncRNA signature (M6LSig) significantly associated with overall survival, which was combined in a prognostic clinical nomogram. Using expression of the 67 m6A-associated lncRNAs, a subgroup classification model was generated using the XGBoost machine learning algorithm, which had a classification accuracy > 90%, including for group 3 and 4 samples. All M6LSig genes were significantly correlated with at least one immune cell type abundance in the tumor microenvironment, and the risk score was positively correlated with CD4+ naïve T cell abundance and negatively correlated with follicular helper T cells and eosinophils. Knockdown of key m6A writer genes METTL3 and METTL14 in a group 3 medulloblastoma cell line (D425-Med) decreased cell proliferation and upregulated many M6LSig genes identified in our in silico analysis, suggesting that the signature genes are functional in medulloblastoma. This study highlights a crucial role for m6A-dependent lncRNAs in medulloblastoma prognosis and immune responses and provides the foundation for practical clinical tools that can be rapidly deployed in clinical settings.
Hybrid Reality 3D Space Registration Method for Rotationally Symmetric in Assembly Process
Authors: Agha Ali , Guo Pengpo , Yang Jun , Xue Zhengjie , Chen RuChen , He Qiang , Wang Haitao
Published: September 2024

In the assembly process of large aircraft parts, the inability to obtain and visually display pose information in real time directly leads to low assembly efficiency. This paper aims to perform pose estimation and three-dimensional registration during the assembly process, utilizing augmented reality to assist the workers with real-time assembly, guidance and information sharing. Furthermore, a hybrid reality, three-dimensional space registration method for the rotationally symmetric objects is proposed. An innovated method proposed to create global description for rotationally symmetric object by a point pair of features, which maps the feature space from a point pair to the corresponding point of the model. By extracting the feature-points in the range image, and solving transformation relationship between them, the high performance five degrees of freedom pose estimation is achieved. The assembly is registered into the mixed reality, three-dimensional space through the solved pose, and the real-time synchronization between the objects in the mixed reality and the real world is realized. The high performance of the designed approach for rotationally symmetric objects has been proven in this paper
Betamethasone Dipropionate Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Enriched Jojoba Oil Gel for Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Singh Prabha , Ghosalkar Shruti Satish , Panchal Nipun Pankaj
Published: September 2024

Aim- To develop and evaluate topical gel containing Betamethasone Dipropionate-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for the management of Atopic dermatitis.
Background- Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, recurrent skin inflammatory condition that affects both children and adults. Betamethasone Dipropionate, a commonly used topical corticosteroid, has limitations such as low bioavailability, inadequate penetration, and potential skin irritation.
Objective- To evaluate the nanostructured lipid carriers gel by comparison with its marketed formulation and to improve epidermal targeting and minimize the side effects associated with the conventional formulation of betamethasone dipropionate.
Method- A hot homogenization process was used to create the NLCs, and their particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in-vitro release were all measured. Next, the NLCs were mixed with 0.1% jojoba oil to create a gel.
Results- The optimized formulation of Betamethasone dipropionate nanostructured lipid carriers had a particle size of 164 nm, PDI 0.188, zeta potential of -11.6 mv, entrapment efficiency of 92.65%, and an in-vitro release of 90.62% after 12 hours. 0.1% jojoba oil was added to the improved recipe to increase the moisturizing effect and integrated into the gel. NLC mixed in Jojoba oil gel demonstrated much higher spreadability, occlusive action, and regulated release of 91.28% after 12 hours when compared to the marketed gel. The ex-vivo investigation on porcine ear skin demonstrated enhanced penetration and retention of Betamethasone dipropionate in skin layers. There was no sign of skin irritation, indicating that the topical application was safe.
Conclusion- The results of the cytotoxicity study (MTT assay) suggested NLC dispersion has cell proliferation potency on HaCaT cells and was non-toxic. Results indicated that betamethasone dipropionate's therapeutic efficacy might be enhanced by NLC formulation.
Analysis of prevalence and associated biomarkers of sarcopenia living in rural community older adults in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhou Yun , Zhang Kemeng , Zhang Yanling , He Ping , Wang Zhaohui
Published: September 2024

Background: Sarcopenia is a syndrome of loss of muscle mass and decreased skeletal muscle function with impaired ability in the activities of daily life and cause some adverse consequences in the elderly. In China, where the aging trend is obvious, the incidence of sarcopenia is increasing. Exploring potential biomarkers for sarcopenia may lead to early screening and intervention for sarcopenia.This study investigated the prevalence and potential biomarkers of sarcopenia in older adult living in rural community in Wuhan,China.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 236 older participants (age ≥65 years) who received a health examination that included body composition and 23 circulating biomarkers.Sarcopenia was defined by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia revised in 2019 (AWGS2019). We divided the participants into a non-sarcopeniagroup and a sarcopenia group. The correlation between biomarkers and sarcopenia was analyzed by independent sample t-test, and then the significant variables of the t-test (p < 0.05) were included in the multivariate logistic regression model to determine the independent factors associated with sarcopenia.
Results: Among the 236 participants, 92 were men and 144 were females, with a mean age of 70.6 ± 4.4years. The prevalence of sarcopenia in rural community was 25.4%(men 20.7%, women 28.5%). Analyses were conducted using multivariate logistic regression，growth differentiation factor 11(GDF11), was an independent risk factor for sarcopenia [Exp (B) 1.031, 95% CI: 1.010-1.052, p=0.003]. However, body mass index, albumin（ALB）, fibroblast growth factor 19(FGF19), and tumour necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α ) were independent protective factors for sarcopenia [BMI: Exp (B) 0.007, 95% CI: 0.000-0.244, p=0.006；ALB: Exp (B) 0.490, 95% CI: 0.281-0.853，p=0.012; FGF19: Exp(B) 0.804, 95% CI: 0.683-0.946, p=0.009; TNF-α: Exp (B) 0.379, 95% CI: 0.194-0.742, p=0.005].
Conclusions: About a quarter of elderly people in rural Chinese communities are at risk of sarcopenia. Lower BMI, lower serum ALB, FGF19, TNF-α, and higher circulating GDF11 are associated with sarcopenia.
Complete resection of a giant costal chondrosarcoma with reconstruction of the thoraco-abdominal wall：a case report.
Authors: Liu Caiyang , Yang Qinyan , Zhong Deyuan , Yan Hongtao , Gu Hang , Yang Xiaozun , Yang Xiaojun , Li Qiang , Huang Xiaolun , Dai Wei
Published: September 2024

Background: Chondrosarcoma primarily occurs in the pelvis and femur, with occasional cases in the ribs. Surgical resection remains the main treatment method for costal chondrosarcoma. However, complete resection often leads to a large range of chest wall defects and a challenging reconstruction.
Case presentation: A 49-year-old female patient presented with progressive swelling of the right chest and abdominal wall over 15 years. Chest CT revealed a 20.1 × 15.6 × 13.7 cm multilocular cystic-solid mass with internal calcification, encircling the 8th to 12th ribs and causing elevation of the right diaphragm. Compression of the liver resulting in a significant reduction in volume. Based on an ultrasound-guided biopsy, chondrosarcoma Grade I was diagnosed. After a multi-disciplinary discussion, we performed a complete resection of the tumor, including the 8th to 12th anterolateral ribs and part of the diaphragm. The diaphragm was then reconstructed by suturing it to the ribs and intercostal muscles. The thoraco-abdominal wall defects were reconstructed with a hernia mesh. Finally, we excised the excess skin and then closed the incision. Histopathologic diagnosis was chondrosarcoma Grade II. The postoperative course was uneventful.
Conclusions: Wide en-bloc resection followed by reconstruction using mesh is feasible and effective for costal chondrosarcoma with limited invasion. This case illustrates the importance of meticulous preoperative planning and multi-disciplinary discussion.
Nitrogen supply forms alter adaptive properties of Moso bamboo seedlings in low phosphorus conditions
Authors: Shi Wenhui , Wang Kecheng , Zhou Jianfei , Xiong Rui , Ying Yeqing
Published: September 2024

Aims
Soil phosphorus loss often occurs in subtropical areas, resulting in extremely low phosphorus levels in forest land, thus affecting soil fertility and hindering normal plant growth. Further research is needed to understand plant preference for different nitrogen sources and to select appropriate nitrogen sources to improve fertilizer use efficiency. The relationship between soil nutrient dynamics and seedling physiology was studied, and the effects of different nitrogen fertilizers on the growth of Phyllostachys edulis seedlings under low phosphorus conditions were evaluated.
Methods
Under four different forms of nitrogen supply (NO3−-N; NH4+-N; NO3−-N + NH4+-N; Org-N) and two phosphorus treatment conditions (deficient, 5.0 mg·kg− 1; sufficient, 20 mg·kg− 1).
Results
Low phosphorus can alter the nutrient environment of some substrates and inhibit the growth of bamboo seedlings, but it improves the efficiency of plant phosphorus utilization; Low phosphorus has a strong inhibitory effect on bamboo, and under low phosphorus conditions, the proportion of amino acid components in bamboo is imbalanced. But it will enhance its adaptability to low phosphorus stress by coordinating the root to shoot ratio, changing the root morphology, improving the efficiency of nitrogen transport and metabolism in roots, stems, and leaves, enhancing the efficiency of leaf electron transfer, and redistributing nutrient resources. In addition, supplying NH4+-N fertilizer under low phosphorus conditions can increase the root to shoot ratio of bamboo, promote the absorption of phosphorus and metal ions by roots, improve nitrogen transport and metabolic efficiency, enhance leaf light utilization capacity, and alleviate the inhibitory effect of bamboo under low phosphorus stress. However, supplying NO3−-N + NH4+-N fertilizer under suitable phosphorus conditions is more conducive to improving the photosynthetic capacity, nitrogen transport and metabolic efficiency of bamboo seedlings, resulting in a significant increase in their total biomass. Therefore, in the actual production and cultivation of bamboo seedlings, attention should be paid to the supply form of nitrogen fertilizer.
Conclusions
Single ammonium nitrogen fertilizer was more suitable for planting bamboo seedlings in natural forest land with seriously low phosphorus, while mixed inorganic nitrogen fertilizer was more suitable for planting bamboo seedlings in soil with reasonable phosphorus fertilizer. It provides theoretical basis for the cultivation and nutrient management practice of bamboo industry.
Hybrid group method of data handling for time series forecasting of thermal generation dispatch in electrical power systems
Authors: Buratto William Gouvêa , Muniz Rafael Ninno , Cardoso Rodolfo , Nied Ademir , Costa Carlos Tavares da , Gonzalez Gabriel Villarrubia
Published: September 2024

In the Brazilian power system, challenges are inherent in forecasting thermal generation dispatch, which plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient operation of electrical power systems. Traditional forecasting methods often struggle to capture the dynamic and nonlinear nature of such systems, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies. Here, a hybrid group method of data handling (HGMDH) is proposed based on the combination of denoising techniques and a prediction model. By integrating denoising techniques with the prediction model, the proposed approach aims to overcome the limitations of individual methods, enhancing forecasting accuracy and adaptability to different operating conditions. The effectiveness of the HGMDH approach is evaluated through simulations and comparisons with the Christiano Fitzgerald filter considering a maximum period of oscillations equal to nine. With a mean absolute percentage error of 0.00988, the HGMDH demonstrates superior performance in predicting thermal generation dispatch in electrical power systems. This innovative hybrid approach presents a promising avenue for improving the efficiency and reliability of time series forecasting in complex energy systems.
Identification of an oncogenic role of centromere protein M in non-small cell lung cancer via CDC20/MYBL2/Wnt signals
Authors: Wu Ling , Li Jun , Wang Haoyu , Chang Xu , Kong Qinglong
Published: September 2024

Lung cancer is the most common carcinoma with high mortality. However, the underlying mechanism of pulmonary neoplasia and disease development remains poorly understood. Our study comprehensively analyzed the transcriptome profiles and clinical-pathological characteristics of 515 patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) retrieved from the TCGA database. We observed a significant upregulation of centromere protein M (CENPM) in tissues of NSCLC patients, which was positively correlated with adverse prognosis. Additionally, overexpression of CENPM significantly facilitated cell proliferation and enhanced tumorigenic potential of NSCLC cell lines (A549/NCI-H1299), resulting in accelerated tumor progression and shortened survival time in tumor-bearing mice. Mechanistically, CENPM activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through cell division cycle 20 (CDC20)/ MYB proto-oncogene kike 2 (MYBL2) axis. Blockade of Wnt signaling or CDC20/MYBL2 axis suppressed the tumorigenic potential and proliferative characteristics-induced by CENPM. Our investigation highlighted an essential role of CENPM in promoting NSCLC development, and CENPM might represent a novel biomarker for predicting NSCLC progression in clinic.