bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncommon Presentation of Sarcoidosis with Severe Thrombocytopenia and Hemorrhagic Diathesis
Authors: Lame Dorela , Pianelli Michelangelo , Kordasti Shahram , Morsia Erika , Olivieri Attilio , Poloni Antonella
Published: March 2024

Sarcoidosis, a multi-organ system disease, often presents insidiously. Thrombocytopenia in sarcoidosis is frequent because of hypersplenism, granulomas infiltrating the bone marrow, or immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). The diagnosis of ITP relies on exclusionary criteria, given the absence of a definitive laboratory diagnostic feature. In the era prior to modern ITP management, sarcoidosis-associated ITP was known to manifest severely, often showing resistance to treatment and an increased risk of mortality. In this case, we present a young male who was admitted to a district hospital’s emergency room, displaying symptoms of hematuria, gingival bleeding, and a petechial rash. Blood tests revealed severe thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of 0, while all other metabolic and serological exams returned normal results. Infectious and autoimmune causes were ruled out, and a bone marrow examination excluded any hematological disorder. Initial management, including platelet transfusion and presumptive treatment for ITP with dexamethasone and Human Immunoglobulin IV (IVIG), failed to improve the patient’s platelet count or alleviate the hemorrhagic diathesis. Second-line therapy with Rituximab and Methylprednisolone was initiated with no benefit. Considering the hemorrhagic signs and the delayed response of Rituximab, we shifted to third-line therapy with Romiplostim at the maximal dose and continued Methylprednisolone. The platelet count recovered completely after the second Romiplostim administration (over 350 × 109 platelets/L) and Methylprednisolone was rapidly tapered. To further study the causes of thrombocytopenia a total body CT scan was performed and it identified non-homogeneously hypodense tissue in the bilateral hilar area extending medially to the subcarinal area, suggesting possible lymphatic origin and raising suspicion of sarcoidosis. Further investigations, including Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) titration, bronchoscopy, bronchoalveolar lavage, and EndoBronchial UltraSound-guided TransBronchial Needle Aspiration (EBUS-TBNA), confirmed the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Despite a mild restrictive insufficiency noted in spirometry, the patient remained asymptomatic with only a mild respiratory insufficiency, and hence, was enlisted for follow-up. As for the ITP, the platelet count remained normal over a year. Notably, while sarcoidosis onset often predates ITP onset by an average of 48 months, in our case the onset of the two diseases was simultaneously. Our case adds valuable information to the limited body of knowledge regarding the treatment of sarcoidosis-associated ITP.
Biocontrol Potential of Trichoderma asperellum CMT10 against Strawberry Root Rot Disease
Authors: Liu Ping , Yang Ruixian , Wang Zuhua , Ma Yinhao , Ren Weiguang , Wei Daowei , Ye Wenyu
Published: March 2024

Strawberry root rot caused by Neopestalotiopsis clavispora is one of the main diseases of strawberries and significantly impacts the yield and quality of strawberry fruit. Currently, the only accessible control methods are fungicide sprays, which could have an adverse effect on the consumers of the strawberries. Biological control is becoming an alternative method for the control of plant diseases to replace or decrease the application of traditional synthetic chemical fungicides. Trichoderma spp. are frequently used as biological agents to prevent root rot in strawberries. In order to provide highly effective biocontrol resources for controlling strawberry root rot caused by Neopestalotiopsis clavispora, the biocontrol mechanism, the control effects of T. asperellum CMT10 against strawberry root rot, and the growth-promoting effects on strawberry seedlings were investigated using plate culture, microscopy observation, and root drenching methods. The results showed that CMT10 had obvious competitive, antimycotic, and hyperparasitic effects on N. clavispora CMGF3. The CMT10 could quickly occupy nutritional space, and the inhibition rate of CMT10 against CMGF3 was 65.49% 7 d after co-culture. The inhibition rates of volatile metabolites and fermentation metabolites produced by CMT10 were 79.67% and 69.84% against CMGF3, respectively. The mycelium of CMT10 can act as a hyperparasite by contacting, winding, and penetrating the hyphae of CMGF3. Pot experiment showed that the biocontrol efficiency of CMT10 on strawberry root rot caused by Neopestalotiopsis clavispora was 63.09%. CMT10 promoted strawberry growth, plant height, root length, total fresh weight, root fresh weight, stem fresh weight, and root dry weight by 20.09%, 22.39%, 87.11%, 101.58%, 79.82%, and 72.33%, respectively. Overall, this study showed the ability of T. asperellum CMT10 to control strawberry root rot and its potential to be developed as a novel biocontrol agent to replace chemical fungicides for eco-friendly and sustainable agriculture.
An Integrated Remote Sensing and GIS-Based Technique for Mapping Groundwater Recharge Zones: A Case Study of SW Riyadh, Central Saudi Arabia
Authors: EL-Bana Eman Mohamed M. , Alogayell Haya M. , Sheta Mariam Hassan , Abdelfattah Mohamed
Published: March 2024

It might be difficult to find possible groundwater reservoir zones, especially in arid or hilly regions. In the twenty-first century, remotely sensed satellite imagery may present a new opportunity to locate surface and subsurface water resources more quickly and affordably. In order to identify groundwater potential zones, the current study was conducted in Central Saudi Arabia, southwest of Riyadh. The present analysis employed a multi-criteria approach that relies on remote sensing and geographic information systems. The variables employed in this technique include geology, rainfall, elevation, slope, aspect, hillshade, drainage density, lineaments density, and Land Use/Land Cover (LULC). The Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) was used for assigning weights to the parameters, and the corresponding significance of each parameter’s several classes for groundwater potentiality. Different groundwater potential zones were identified by the study: very high (16.8%), high (30%), medium (26.7%), low (18.6%), and very low (7.9%). Only two of the observation wells were located in the “medium” potential zone, but the other ten wells were observed in the “very high and high” potential zones, according to the validation survey. Consequently, the results may demonstrate that the current approach, which combines improved conceptualization with AHP to define and map groundwater potential zones, has a greater chance of producing accurate results and can be used to reduce the threat of drought in broader arid regions.
Community-Based Designed Pilot Cooking and Texting Intervention on Health-Related Quality of Life among College Students
Authors: Barr-Porter Makenzie , Sullivan Amelia , Watras Emma , Winn Caitlyn , McNamara Jade
Published: March 2024

As emerging adulthood is an important area of life for developing healthful habits, the current study aimed to test the feasibility of a pilot program for improving health-related quality of life (HRQOL), food security, and diet quality among college students. Students 18–26 years old were recruited from two land-grant institutions to participate in an online survey and self-selected to participate in an intervention study. An intervention program was developed by student peers to include (1) a four-session cooking curriculum and a (2) semester-long text message program to share health resources on the relevant college campus. Diet quality, food security, and mentally healthy days were assessed. Baseline to post-program changes were assessed using paired t-tests. Cohen’s d was used to determine effect size estimates. In the full sample (N = 65), “days/month when mental health was not good” and “days/month feeling worried, tense, or anxious” significantly improved (p < 0.05). Dietary quality measures of total short Healthy Eating Index (sHEI) score and total vegetable intake significantly improved throughout the intervention. Subsamples of (1) food-insecure participants (n = 22) and those with (2) dietary quality below the 50th percentile (n = 29) both had positive improvements following the program. Health promotion programs should be formed, adapted, or expanded in an effort to improve health among our next generation of workers. College and university environments should focus on mental health, diet, and food security among their constituents, particularly with regard to those at risk.
A Co-Created Tool to Help Counter Health Misinformation for Spanish-Speaking Communities in the San Francisco Bay Area
Authors: Abascal Miguel Lucía , Maiorana Andres , Saggese Gustavo Santa Roza , Campbell Chadwick K. , Bourdeau Beth , Arnold Emily A.
Published: March 2024

Background: Health misinformation, which was particularly prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic, hampers public health initiatives. Spanish-speaking communities in the San Francisco Bay Area may be especially affected due to low digital health literacy and skepticism towards science and healthcare experts. Our study aims to develop a checklist to counter misinformation, grounded in community insights. Methods: We adopted a multistage approach to understanding barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Spanish-speaking populations in Alameda and San Francisco counties. Initial work included key informant and community interviews. Partnering with a community-based organization (CBO), we organized co-design workshops in July 2022 to develop a practical tool for identifying misinformation. Template analysis identified key themes for actionable steps, such as source evaluation and content assessment. From this, we developed a Spanish-language checklist. Findings: During formative interviews, misinformation was identified as a major obstacle to vaccine uptake. Three co-design workshops with 15 Spanish-speaking women resulted in a 10-step checklist for tackling health misinformation. Participants highlighted the need for scrutinizing sources and assessing messenger credibility, and cues in visual content that could instill fear. The checklist offers a pragmatic approach to source verification and information assessment, supplemented by resources from local CBOs. Conclusion: We have co-created a targeted checklist for Spanish-speaking communities to identify and counter health misinformation. Such specialized tools are essential for populations that are more susceptible to misinformation, enabling them to differentiate between credible and non-credible information.
Australian Women’s Experiences of Establishing Breastfeeding after Caesarean Birth
Authors: Perrella Sharon L. , Abelha Sarah G. , Vlaskovsky Philip , McEachran Jacki L. , Prosser Stuart A. , Geddes Donna T.
Published: March 2024

Breastfeeding exclusivity and duration rates are lower after caesarean birth, yet the factors contributing to these are not well understood. This mixed-methods study used an anonymous online questionnaire to examine the facilitators and barriers to establishing breastfeeding as identified by Australian women after a caesarean birth. Quantitative data were reported using descriptive statistics, and multivariable models were used to determine the factors associated with breastfeeding outcomes including the timing of breastfeeding initiation, birth experience, and commercial infant formula use. Qualitative data were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis. Data were obtained for N = 961 women, of which <50% reported skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding initiation. The barriers to breastfeeding included aspects of clinical care and reduced mobility, while unrushed care, partner support, and physical help with picking up the baby were helpful. Following a non-elective caesarean birth, women had half the odds of early breastfeeding initiation (OR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.68; p ≤ 0.001) and 10 times the odds to report a negative birth experience (OR = 10.2; 95% CI: 6.88, 15.43; p < 0.001). Commercial milk formula use was higher in primiparous women (OR = 2.16; 95% CI: 1.60, 2.91; p < 0.001) and in those that birthed in a private hospital (OR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.25, 2.32; p = 0.001). Pain and reduced mobility, as well as conflicting and rushed care, negatively impacted breastfeeding after a caesarean birth, while delayed breastfeeding initiation, higher pain ratings, and negative birth experiences were more common for women that birthed by non-elective caesarean. This study adds valuable insights into the physical, emotional, and clinical care needs of women in establishing breastfeeding after a surgical birth. Clinical staffing and care should be modified to include full access to partner support to meet the specific needs of breastfeeding women after a caesarean birth.
The Healthcare and Societal Costs of Familial Intellectual Disability
Authors: Schofield Deborah , Shrestha Rupendra , Tan Owen , Lim Katherine , Rajkumar Radhika , West Sarah , Boyle Jackie , Murray Lucinda , Leffler Melanie , Christie Louise , Rice Morgan , Hart Natalie , Li Jinjing , Tanton Robert , Roscioli Tony , Field Mike
Published: March 2024

Most of the studies on the cost of intellectual disability are limited to a healthcare perspective or cohorts composed of individuals where the etiology of the condition is a mixture of genetic and non-genetic factors. When used in policy development, these can impact the decisions made on the optimal allocation of resources. In our study, we have developed a static microsimulation model to estimate the healthcare, societal, and lifetime cost of individuals with familial intellectual disability, an inheritable form of the condition, to families and government. The results from our modeling show that the societal costs outweighed the health costs (approximately 89.2% and 10.8%, respectively). The lifetime cost of familial intellectual disability is approximately AUD 7 million per person and AUD 10.8 million per household. The lifetime costs to families are second to those of the Australian Commonwealth government (AUD 4.2 million and AUD 9.3 million per household, respectively). These findings suggest that familial intellectual disability is a very expensive condition, representing a significant cost to families and government. Understanding the drivers of familial intellectual disability, especially societal, can assist us in the development of policies aimed at improving health outcomes and greater access to social care for affected individuals and their families.
MLe-KCNQ2: An Artificial Intelligence Model for the Prognosis of Missense KCNQ2 Gene Variants
Authors: Saez-Matia Alba , Ibarluzea Markel G. , M-Alicante Sara , Muguruza-Montero Arantza , Nuñez Eider , Ramis Rafael , Ballesteros Oscar R. , Lasa-Goicuria Diego , Fons Carmen , Gallego Mónica , Casis Oscar , Leonardo Aritz , Bergara Aitor , Villarroel Alvaro
Published: March 2024

Despite the increasing availability of genomic data and enhanced data analysis procedures, predicting the severity of associated diseases remains elusive in the absence of clinical descriptors. To address this challenge, we have focused on the KV7.2 voltage-gated potassium channel gene (KCNQ2), known for its link to developmental delays and various epilepsies, including self-limited benign familial neonatal epilepsy and epileptic encephalopathy. Genome-wide tools often exhibit a tendency to overestimate deleterious mutations, frequently overlooking tolerated variants, and lack the capacity to discriminate variant severity. This study introduces a novel approach by evaluating multiple machine learning (ML) protocols and descriptors. The combination of genomic information with a novel Variant Frequency Index (VFI) builds a robust foundation for constructing reliable gene-specific ML models. The ensemble model, MLe-KCNQ2, formed through logistic regression, support vector machine, random forest and gradient boosting algorithms, achieves specificity and sensitivity values surpassing 0.95 (AUC-ROC > 0.98). The ensemble MLe-KCNQ2 model also categorizes pathogenic mutations as benign or severe, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) above 0.67. This study not only presents a transferable methodology for accurately classifying KCNQ2 missense variants, but also provides valuable insights for clinical counseling and aids in the determination of variant severity. The research context emphasizes the necessity of precise variant classification, especially for genes like KCNQ2, contributing to the broader understanding of gene-specific challenges in the field of genomic research. The MLe-KCNQ2 model stands as a promising tool for enhancing clinical decision making and prognosis in the realm of KCNQ2-related pathologies.
PRPH2-Related Retinal Dystrophies: Mutational Spectrum in 103 Families from a Spanish Cohort
Authors: Fernández-Caballero Lidia , Martín-Merida Inmaculada , Blanco-Kelly Fiona , Avila-Fernandez Almudena , Carreño Ester , Fernandez-San Jose Patricia , Irigoyen Cristina , Jimenez-Rolando Belen , Lopez-Grondona Fermina , Mahillo Ignacio , Martin-Gutierrez María Pilar , Minguez Pablo , Perea-Romero Irene , Del Pozo-Valero Marta , Riveiro-Alvarez Rosa , Rodilla Cristina , Rodriguez-Peña Lidya , Sánchez-Barbero Ana Isabel , Swafiri Saoud T. , Trujillo-Tiebas María José , Zurita Olga , García-Sandoval Blanca , Corton Marta , Ayuso Carmen
Published: March 2024

PRPH2, one of the most frequently inherited retinal dystrophy (IRD)-causing genes, implies a high phenotypic variability. This study aims to analyze the PRPH2 mutational spectrum in one of the largest cohorts worldwide, and to describe novel pathogenic variants and genotype–phenotype correlations. A study of 220 patients from 103 families recruited from a database of 5000 families. A molecular diagnosis was performed using classical molecular approaches and next-generation sequencing. Common haplotypes were ascertained by analyzing single-nucleotide polymorphisms. We identified 56 variants, including 11 novel variants. Most of them were missense variants (64%) and were located in the D2-loop protein domain (77%). The most frequently occurring variants were p.Gly167Ser, p.Gly208Asp and p.Pro221_Cys222del. Haplotype analysis revealed a shared region in families carrying p.Leu41Pro or p.Pro221_Cys222del. Patients with retinitis pigmentosa presented an earlier disease onset. We describe the largest cohort of IRD families associated with PRPH2 from a single center. Most variants were located in the D2-loop domain, highlighting its importance in interacting with other proteins. Our work suggests a likely founder effect for the variants p.Leu41Pro and p.Pro221_Cys222del in our Spanish cohort. Phenotypes with a primary rod alteration presented more severe affectation. Finally, the high phenotypic variability in PRPH2 hinders the possibility of drawing genotype–phenotype correlations.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) GATA Family Reveals a Role for CsGATA12 as a Regulator of Citrus Bacterial Canker Resistance
Authors: Fan Jie , Xian Baohang , Huang Xin , Yu Qiyuan , Zhang Miao , Zhang Chenxi , Jia Ruirui , Chen Shanchun , He Yongrui , Li Qiang
Published: March 2024

Citrus bacterial canker (CBC) is a severe bacterial infection caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri (Xcc), which continues to adversely impact citrus production worldwide. Members of the GATA family are important regulators of plant development and regulate plant responses to particular stressors. This report aimed to systematically elucidate the Citrus sinensis genome to identify and annotate genes that encode GATAs and evaluate the functional importance of these CsGATAs as regulators of CBC resistance. In total, 24 CsGATAs were identified and classified into four subfamilies. Furthermore, the phylogenetic relationships, chromosomal locations, collinear relationships, gene structures, and conserved domains for each of these GATA family members were also evaluated. It was observed that Xcc infection induced some CsGATAs, among which CsGATA12 was chosen for further functional validation. CsGATA12 was found to be localized in the nucleus and was differentially upregulated in the CBC-resistant and CBC-sensitive Kumquat and Wanjincheng citrus varieties. When transiently overexpressed, CsGATA12 significantly reduced CBC resistance with a corresponding increase in abscisic acid, jasmonic acid, and antioxidant enzyme levels. These alterations were consistent with lower levels of salicylic acid, ethylene, and reactive oxygen species. Moreover, the bacteria-induced CsGATA12 gene silencing yielded the opposite phenotypic outcomes. This investigation highlights the important role of CsGATA12 in regulating CBC resistance, underscoring its potential utility as a target for breeding citrus varieties with superior phytopathogen resistance.
Roles of CgEde1 and CgMca in Development and Virulence of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Wang Dan , An Bang , Luo Hongli , He Chaozu , Wang Qiannan
Published: March 2024

Anthracnose, induced by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, poses a substantial economic threat to rubber tree yields and various other tropical crops. Ede1, an endocytic scaffolding protein, plays a crucial role in endocytic site initiation and maturation in yeast. Metacaspases, sharing structural similarities with caspase family proteases, are essential for maintaining cell fitness. To enhance our understanding of the growth and virulence of C. gloeosporioides, we identified a homologue of Ede1 (CgEde1) in C. gloeosporioides. The knockout of CgEde1 led to impairments in vegetative growth, conidiation, and pathogenicity. Furthermore, we characterized a weakly interacted partner of CgEde1 and CgMca (orthologue of metacaspase). Notably, both the single mutant ΔCgMca and the double mutant ΔCgEde1/ΔCgMca exhibited severe defects in conidiation and germination. Polarity establishment and pathogenicity were also disrupted in these mutants. Moreover, a significantly insoluble protein accumulation was observed in ΔCgMca and ΔCgEde1/ΔCgMca strains. These findings elucidate the mechanism by which CgEde1 and CgMca regulates the growth and pathogenicity of C. gloeosporioides. Their regulation involves influencing conidiation, polarity establishment, and maintaining cell fitness, providing valuable insights into the intricate interplay between CgEde1 and CgMca in C. gloeosporioides.
Identification and Analysis of the MIR399 Gene Family in Grapevine Reveal Their Potential Functions in Abiotic Stress
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Ren Yi , Sun Yan , Yin Yonggang , Han Bin , Zhang Lipeng , Song Yue , Zhang Zhen , Xu Yuanyuan , Fan Dongying , Li Junpeng , Liu Huaifeng , Ma Chao
Published: March 2024

MiR399 plays an important role in plant growth and development. The objective of the present study was to elucidate the evolutionary characteristics of the MIR399 gene family in grapevine and investigate its role in stress response. To comprehensively investigate the functions of miR399 in grapevine, nine members of the Vvi-MIR399 family were identified based on the genome, using a miRBase database search, located on four chromosomes (Chr 2, Chr 10, Chr 15, and Chr 16). The lengths of the Vvi-miR399 precursor sequences ranged from 82 to 122 nt and they formed stable stem–loop structures, indicating that they could produce microRNAs (miRNAs). Furthermore, our results suggested that the 2 to 20 nt region of miR399 mature sequences were relatively conserved among family members. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Vvi-MIR399 members of dicots (Arabidopsis, tomato, and sweet orange) and monocots (rice and grapevine) could be divided into three clades, and most of the Vvi-MIR399s were closely related to sweet orange in dicots. Promoter analysis of Vvi-MIR399s showed that the majority of the predicted cis-elements were related to stress response. A total of 66.7% (6/9) of the Vvi-MIR399 promoters harbored drought, GA, and SA response elements, and 44.4% (4/9) of the Vvi-MIRR399 promoters also presented elements involved in ABA and MeJA response. The expression trend of Vvi-MIR399s was consistent in different tissues, with the lowest expression level in mature and young fruits and the highest expression level in stems and young leaves. However, nine Vvi-MIR399s and four target genes showed different expression patterns when exposed to low light, high light, heat, cold, drought, and salt stress. Interestingly, a putative target of Vvi-MIR399 targeted multiple genes; for example, seven Vvi-MIR399s simultaneously targeted VIT_213s0067g03280.1. Furthermore, overexpression of Vvi_MIR399e and Vvi_MIR399f in Arabidopsis enhanced tolerance to drought compared with wild-type (WT). In contrast, the survival rate of Vvi_MIR399d-overexpressed plants were zero after drought stress. In conclusion, Vvi-MIR399e and Vvi-MIR399f, which are related to drought tolerance in grapevine, provide candidate genes for future drought resistance breeding.
Potential of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Red–Green–Blue Images for Detecting Needle Pests: A Case Study with Erannis jacobsoni Djak (Lepidoptera, Geometridae)
Authors: Bai Liga , Huang Xiaojun , Dashzebeg Ganbat , Ariunaa Mungunkhuyag , Yin Shan , Bao Yuhai , Bao Gang , Tong Siqin , Dorjsuren Altanchimeg , Davaadorj Enkhnasan
Published: March 2024

Erannis jacobsoni Djak (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) is a leaf-feeding pest unique to Mongolia. Outbreaks of this pest can cause larch needles to shed slowly from the top until they die, leading to a serious imbalance in the forest ecosystem. In this work, to address the need for the low-cost, fast, and effective identification of this pest, we used field survey indicators and UAV images of larch forests in Binder, Khentii, Mongolia, a typical site of Erannis jacobsoni Djak pest outbreaks, as the base data, calculated relevant multispectral and red–green–blue (RGB) features, used a successive projections algorithm (SPA) to extract features that are sensitive to the level of pest damage, and constructed a recognition model of Erannis jacobsoni Djak pest damage by combining patterns in the RGB vegetation indices and texture features (RGBVI&TF) with the help of random forest (RF) and convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithms. The results were compared and evaluated with multispectral vegetation indices (MSVI) to explore the potential of UAV RGB images in identifying needle pests. The results show that the sensitive features extracted based on SPA can adequately capture the changes in the forest appearance parameters such as the leaf loss rate and the colour of the larch canopy under pest damage conditions and can be used as effective input variables for the model. The RGBVI&TF-RF440 and RGBVI&TF-CNN740 models have the best performance, with their overall accuracy reaching more than 85%, which is a significant improvement compared with that of the RGBVI model, and their accuracy is similar to that of the MSVI model. This low-cost and high-efficiency method can excel in the identification of Erannis jacobsoni Djak-infested regions in small areas and can provide an important experimental theoretical basis for subsequent large-scale forest pest monitoring with a high spatiotemporal resolution.
Reassessment of the Phylogenetics of Two Pygmy Grasshopper Generic Groups Tetrix and Systolederus through Mitochondrial Phylogenomics Using Four New Mitochondrial Genome Assemblies
Authors: Guan De-Long , Huang Chao-Mei , Deng Wei-An
Published: March 2024

Mitochondrial genomes offer pragmatic genetic markers to reconstruct evolutionary relationships and inform taxonomic classifications. Here, we present complete mitochondrial sequences for four Chinese pygmy grasshoppers (Tetrigidae), aiming to reevaluate phylogenetic patterns and morphological taxonomy. Our 17,643 bp, 16,274 bp, 15,086 bp, and 15,398 bp mitogenomes of Exothotettix guangxiensis, Formosatettix longwangshanensis, Euparatettix sinufemoralis and Systolederus zhengi, respectively, exhibit archetypal Tetrigidae architecture. We constructed phylogenies using 13 protein-coding loci from 39 Tetrigidae mitogenomes, revealing several genus-level clusters with statistically solid support, conflicts regarding Ex. guangxiensis, F. longwangshanensis merging into Tetrix, and two subclades of Systolederus. The dated divergence analysis indicates over 150 Mya of Tetrigidae ancestry, tracing the Systolederus generic group splits up to ~75 million years ago. Moreover, the Tetrix generic group radiated over 14 Mya across vast distributions, consistent with rapid adaptive dispersals. Our mitochondrial reconstructions suggest that Synstolederus is taxonomically overextended for a single genus, while the distinctiveness of Ex. guangxiensis and F. longwangshanensis from Tetrix appears questionable, and the Tetrix generic group comprises a potential tRNA-Ile coding region. Our integrative mitogenomic approaches will help resolve issues stemming from morphological taxonomy that is reliant on traits that are prone to convergence. This investigation enhances comprehension of Tetrigidae phylogeny and accentuates molecular systematics.
Hidden Blood Loss and Its Risk Factors for Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Yang Jae Hyuk , Kim Hong Jin , An Minsu , Suh Seung Woo , Chang Dong Gune
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: The amount of blood loss during oblique lumber interbody fusion (OLIF) surgery is often underestimated and may contribute to adverse postoperative outcomes. This study aims to evaluate hidden blood loss (HBL) in patients who underwent OLIF for degenerative lumbar spine disease and to analyze its risk factors. (2) Methods: The medical records of 179 patients who underwent OLIF surgery from 2015 to 2022 were reviewed. The HBL and total blood loss (TBL) were estimated using the Gross formula. Pearson correlation, Spearman correlation, and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to investigate risk factors for HBL. (3) Results: The mean HBL was 675.2 mL, and the mean hemoglobin loss was 1.7 g/dL during OLIF surgery. In the multivariate linear regression analysis, TBL (p < 0.001), estimated blood loss (p < 0.001), and pedicle screw fixation type (p = 0.039) were identified as independent risk factors of HBL. (4) Conclusions: The OLIF is associated with substantial perioperative HBL, for which we identified risk factors of TBL, EBL, and pedicle screw fixation type. Notably, OLIF with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation resulted in greater HBL than stand-alone OLIF or OLIF with open pedicle screw fixation.
Evaluation of Esthetic Results after Mass Removal with Elliptical Skin Excision Using Ultrasonography to Measure Skin Thickness
Authors: Woo Sang Seok , Gwak Hongki , Kim Ki Hyun , Lee Jun Won , Choi Jai Koo , Suh Insuck , Kim Seong Hwan
Published: March 2024

Background: The growth of benign cutaneous masses causes the overlaying skin to expand and become thinner, especially at the central, most projected point. In this retrospective study, a surgical technique comprising an elliptical skin excision was employed to account for these skin changes. Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 980 patients with benign masses. Preoperatively, all patients underwent ultrasonography to evaluate the mass depth and thickness of the attached skin, and mass excision was performed using the elliptical skin-excision method. The operative time was recorded, and complications and esthetic outcomes were assessed using the Cutometer® and the modified Vancouver Scar Scale (mVSS) during 1- and 3-month follow-up visits. Results: The mean operative time (17.48 ± 3.46 min) was significantly shorter than that of conventional methods (p < 0.05). Cutometer parameters showed no significant differences from those of intact skin. The average mVSS scores were 5.21 ± 1.42 and 3.50 ± 1.79 at 1- and 3-month follow-ups, respectively. Conclusions: Mass excision with an elliptical skin attachment resulted in improved esthetic results and easy removal. The attached skin enabled convenient handling without damaging the capsule or other adjacent structures, leaving a thick dermis on both wound edges. Thus, this technique resulted in minimal scarring.
Management of Melasma: Laser and Other Therapies—Review Study
Authors: Jiryis Badea , Toledano Ohad , Avitan-Hersh Emily , Khamaysi Ziad
Published: March 2024

Melasma is a commonly occurring pigmented skin condition that can significantly affect one’s appearance, described as symmetric hyperpigmentation that presents as irregular brown to gray-brown macules on various facial areas, such as the cheeks, forehead, nasal bridge, and upper lip, along with the mandible and upper arms. Due to its complex pathogenesis and recurrent nature, melasma management is challenging and the outcomes following treatment are not always deemed satisfactory. Solely treating hyperpigmentation may prove ineffective unless paired with regenerative techniques and photoprotection, since one of the main reasons for recurrence is sun exposure. Hence, the treatment protocol starts with addressing risk factors, implementing stringent UV protection, and then treatment using different strategies, like applying topical treatments, employing chemical peels, laser and light therapies, microneedling, and systemic therapy. This review aims to provide a summary of the effectiveness and safety of the frequently employed laser and light therapies for treating melasma, focusing on laser therapy as a treatment for melasma.
Complete and Incomplete Alcohol Sclerotherapy for Treatment of Symptomatic Hepatic Cysts: Comparison of Volume Reduction and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Kim Ran , Oh Jung-Suk , Kim Su-Ho , Chun Ho-Jong
Published: March 2024

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of incomplete alcohol sclerotherapy with complete treatment for hepatic cysts. Methods: From 2005 to 2021, a total of 80 patients (19 males, 61 females; median age 65 years; age range, 42–86 years) who underwent alcohol sclerotherapy for symptomatic benign hepatic cysts were enrolled and retrospectively reviewed. Complete treatment was defined as injecting 25–33% of the aspirated cyst volume with alcohol in 2–3 cycles, with a maximum of 100 mL per cycle. The overall volume reduction rate was compared between the complete and incomplete treatment groups. The response, based on cystic volume reduction, was classified as a complete regression (CR), near-complete regression (NCR), partial regression (PR), or no response (NR). CR and NCR were considered objective responses. Among 80 patients with 85 hepatic cysts, 26 patients with 29 hepatic cysts received incomplete treatment. Results: The overall volume reduction rate was not significantly different between the complete and incomplete treatment groups (94.39% vs. 95.47%, respectively, p = 0.623). The CR and NCR groups showed a significantly higher rate of symptom improvement than the PR and NR groups (p = 0.043). Conclusions: In conclusion, the efficacy of incomplete alcohol sclerotherapy was not inferior to that of complete treatment.
Cardiovascular Risks of Simultaneous Use of Alcohol and Cocaine—A Systematic Review
Authors: van Amsterdam Jan , Gresnigt Femke , van den Brink Wim
Published: March 2024

Background: The simultaneous use of cocaine and alcohol is highly prevalent and is associated with high numbers of emergency department admissions, primarily due to cardiovascular complications. Aims: To answer the question of whether the co-use of cocaine and alcohol increases the cardiovascular risk compared to the use of cocaine alone. Method: A systematic review of human studies comparing the cardiovascular risk of co-used cocaine and alcohol with the use of cocaine alone. Results: Despite a higher myocardial workload induced by the co-use of cocaine and alcohol and the potentiation of cocaine’s cardiovascular effects by alcohol, the findings on the risk and severity of cardiovascular symptoms due to combined use are inconsistent. However, the co-use of cocaine and alcohol clearly leads to higher mortality. Interestingly, the presence of cocaethylene, a unique metabolite generated only via a pharmacokinetic interaction between alcohol and cocaine, carries an 18- to 25-fold increase over the absence of cocaethylene (cocaine-alone users) in the risk of sudden death and is associated with myocardial injury and cardiac arrest, probably due to the inhibition of cardiac ion channels by cocaethylene. Conclusion: Despite the inconsistency in some of the results, it is concluded that the co-use of cocaine and alcohol poses an additional risk of cardiovascular fatalities compared to the use of cocaine alone.
Stiffness Retention in Cyclic-Loaded CFRP Composites Produced via Novel Automatic Tape Laying
Authors: Blythe Ashley , Fox Bronwyn , Nikzad Mostafa , Eisenbart Boris , Chai Boon Xian
Published: March 2024

Sixteen-head automatic tape laying of non-crimped carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic is performed, and the fibre alignment is compared with that produced via hand laying. The effect of fibre alignment is tested via quasi-static and cyclic three-point bending tests. Using the Fill Multilayer (a 16-head tape-laying machine), precision fibre laying of unidirectional fabrics is performed with deliberate misalignment to examine the effect of fibre orientation and investigate the random effect on longitudinal misalignment. The automatic tape-layered coupons are compared with hand-layered carbon fibre tapes to investigate the relationship between the fibre alignment and the flexural strength. A 52% reduction in the fibre alignment scatter is achieved via the Fill Multilayer. Fibre orientation increases lead to a higher flexural strength of 16.08% for Fill Multilayer-made coupons compared with hand-layered samples. An investigation of the correlation between fibre alignment and flexural strength shows that shear-based failure increases exponentially as the alignment decreases. Fill Multilayer-made coupons have a higher void concentration due to ultrasonic welding, but also the highest modulus and flexural strength, as fibre misalignment is reduced to 1.68°, with a modulus degradation of 1.4%.
The Impact of PP-g-MAH on Mechanical Properties of Injection Molding of Long Glass Fiber/Polypropylene Pellets from Thermoplastic Pultrusion Process
Authors: Tipboonsri Ponlapath , Memon Anin
Published: March 2024

Long fiber thermoplastic pellets are pellets containing discontinuous reinforced fibers and a matrix, offering excellent mechanical properties, good processability, recyclability, and low cost. Typically, commercial LFTP is manufactured through the hot melt impregnation process, combining extrusion and pultrusion. Although there is a thermoplastic pultrusion process for LFTP production, characterized by a simple machine and an easy method, its mechanical properties have not yet approached those of commercial LFTP. In improving the mechanical characteristics of LFTP manufactured via thermoplastic pultrusion, this research employed polypropylene-graft-maleic anhydride as a coupling agent during the injection molding procedure. The LFTP is composed of polypropylene material reinforced with glass fiber. Mechanical and physical properties of the LFTP were investigated by introducing PP-g-MAH at concentrations of 4, 8, and 12 wt% through injection molding. The results revealed that, at a 4 wt% concentration of PP-g-MAH, the LFTP composites exhibited heightened tensile, flexural and impact strengths. However, these properties began to decrease upon exceeding 4 wt% PP-g-MAH. The enhanced interfacial adhesion among glass fibers, induced by PP-g-MAH, contributed to this improvement. Nonetheless, excessive amounts of PP-g-MAH led to a reduction in molecular weight, subsequently diminishing the impact strength, tensile modulus, and flexural modulus. In LFTP composites, both tensile and flexural strengths exhibited a positive correlation with the PP-g-MAH concentration, attributed to improved interfacial adhesion between glass fibers and polypropylene, coupled with a reduction in fiber pull-out. Based on morphological analysis by SEM, the incorporation of PP-g-MAH improved interfacial bonding and decreased fiber pull-out. The presence of maleic anhydride in the LFTPc was confirmed through the utilization of FTIR spectroscopy. Mechanical properties of LFTP containing 4 wt% PP-g-MAH were found to be equivalent to or superior to those of commercial LFTP, according to the results of a comparative analysis.
Dissimilar Probeless Friction Stir Spot Welding of Aluminum Alloy and USIBOR®1500-AS Steel Thin Plates
Authors: Rashkovets Mariia , Palmieri Maria Emanuela , Contuzzi Nicola , Tricarico Luigi , Casalino Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

Lap joining of an aluminum AA6082-T6 plate and a UHSS steel plate coated with an Al-Si layer was performed using Probeless Friction Stir Spot Welding (P-FSSW). The dwell time and rotational speed were controlled in the range of 10–15 s and 1000–1500 rpm, respectively. For all the samples, thermo-mechanical deformation occurred solely within the upper AA6082 plate. A refined grain structure was formed in the aluminum plate close to the surface. The dwell time was responsible for the intensity of the material flow, resulting in stirring between the Al-Si layer and the aluminum plate at 15 s. The microhardness distribution corresponded to the microstructure features.
Multi-Module Fusion Model for Submarine Pipeline Identification Based on YOLOv5
Authors: Duan Bochen , Wang Shengping , Luo Changlong , Chen Zhigao
Published: March 2024

In recent years, the surge in marine activities has increased the frequency of submarine pipeline failures. Detecting and identifying the buried conditions of submarine pipelines has become critical. Sub-bottom profilers (SBPs) are widely employed for pipeline detection, yet manual data interpretation hampers efficiency. The present study proposes an automated detection method for submarine pipelines using deep learning models. The approach enhances the YOLOv5s model by integrating Squeeze and Excitation Networks (SE-Net) and S2-MLPv2 attention modules into the backbone network structure. The Slicing Aided Hyper Inference (SAHI) module is subsequently introduced to recognize original large-image data. Experimental results conducted in the Yellow Sea region demonstrate that the refined model achieves a precision of 82.5%, recall of 99.2%, and harmonic mean (F1 score) of 90.0% on actual submarine pipeline data detected using an SBP. These results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method and applicability in real-world scenarios.
Community Structure and Diversity of Endophytic Fungi in Cultivated Polygala crotalarioides at Two Different Growth Stages Based on Culture-Independent and Culture-Based Methods
Authors: Shen Kaize , Xiong Yu , Liu Yanfang , Fan Xingwang , Zhu Rui , Hu Zumao , Li Congying , Hua Yan
Published: March 2024

Polygala crotalarioides, a perennial herbaceous plant found in southwest China, has the potential to be used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Endophytic fungi that reside within medicinal herbs play an important ecological role in their host plants and can serve as a valuable source for identifying active components. However, little is known about the diversity, and structure of endophytic fungi in P. crotalarioides. In this study, we investigated the community structure and diversity of endophytic fungi in the leaves, stems, and roots of P. crotalarioides at both 1- and 2-year-growth stages using a modern culture-independent method using both culture-independent (high-throughput sequencing, HTS) and culture-based methods. Using HTS, our results revealed that the richness and diversity of endophytic fungi in P. crotalarioides varied depending on the organs and growth stages. Specifically, stems and leaves exhibited significantly higher diversity compared to roots. Additionally, the highest diversity of endophytic fungi was observed in the stems of the 2-year-old plants. At the genus level, Fusarium, Colletotrichum, and Phoma were the most abundant endophytic fungi in 1-year-old samples, while Cercospora, Apiotrichum, and Fusarium were prevalent in 2-year-old samples. A total of 55 endophytic fungal strains belonging to two phyla and 24 genera were isolated from 150 plant tissue segments using culture-based methods. The anti-acetylcholinesterase activity of these isolates was evaluated in vitro and five of them, Phialophora mustea PCAM010, Diaporthe nobilis PCBM027, Fusarium oxysporum LP41, F. oxysporum SR60, and Phoma herbarum SM81, showed strong activity (>50% inhibition rate). These findings will serve as a theoretical basis and practical guide for comprehending the structural composition, biological diversity and bioactivity of endophytic fungi in P. crotalarioides.
Telemedicine as an Option for Monitoring Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) Patients Facing the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Akbar Femmy Nurul , Choirida Safira Rosiana , Muttaqin Ahmad Zaqi , Ekayanti Fika , Nisa Hoirun , Hendarto Hari
Published: March 2024

Healthcare visits were reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, causing disturbances in sustainable MAFLD monitoring. Telemedicine acts to maintain connectivity between patients and healthcare professionals. This review aimed to assess the role of telemedicine in monitoring MAFLD during the pandemic. Databases searched included l PubMed Central and ScienceDirect from 2020 to 2023. Assessment with The Cochrane Risk of Bias for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for non-RCTs systematic reviews. Meta-analyses employing a random-effect model were performed to determine the pooled mean difference (MD) and p-value. The results showed three RCT and two non-RCT (n = 239) with 56.9% males and a mean age of 51.3 years. The median intervention duration was 5.5 months. The parameters assessed included body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, liver function (AST/ALT), lipid profile, HbA1c, and others. Meta-analysis revealed that telemedicine had a significant effect on improving outcomes for BW (MD −2.81: 95% CI, −4.11, −1.51, p < 0.0001) and BMI (MD −1.01: 95% CI, −1.47, −0.55, p < 0.0001) compared to standard care, while the AST/ALT levels were not significantly reduced. Some biochemical markers decreased based on the systematic reviews. In conclusion, telemedicine using mobile-based applications could be an option for monitoring lifestyle modification in MAFLD patients facing the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Cross-Sectional Study on the Role of a Lab Test Screening Program in Defining Cardiovascular Disease Risk Prevalence
Authors: Curici Antoanela , Popescu Mihaela Roxana , Pîrvuleț Viviana Adriana , Marinescu Gabriela-Irina , Ionescu Ana Corina
Published: March 2024

Recent epidemiologic studies carried out in Romania confirmed an ascending trend for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor prevalence such as diabetes mellitus (DM), obesity and dyslipidemia. The aim of this study is to describe the CVD risk factor profile and preventative behavior in a representative sample of the general adult population of an Eastern Romanian urban area. More than 70% of the studied population had a body mass index (BMI) above the normal range for their age, with 36.7% of the subjects residing in obesity and severe obesity clusters. For overweight and obese subjects, the number of comorbidities (CVD, arterial hypertension and DM type 2) was higher than in the population with normal weight (44% vs. 31%, 22% vs. 14% and 18% vs. 10%, respectively). The prevalence of high blood pressure was almost double that reported in previous Romanian studies (69.3% vs. 36.6%) and higher than expected, based on self-reported known CVD diagnoses (37.5%). There was a visible difference between the results obtained for quantifiable CVD risk factors and self-reported lifestyle ones. Routine blood test monitoring may be an easy and inexpensive tool to guide educational and medical interventions to address modifiable CV risk factors in the adult population in order to prevent the fatal consequences of cardiovascular disease.