bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quenching of quorum sensing in multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: insights on halo-bacterial metabolites and gamma irradiation as channels inhibitors
Authors: Talaat Reham , Abu El-naga Mohamed N. , El-Bialy Heba Abd Alla , El-Fouly Mohie Z. , Abouzeid Mohamed A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Anti-virulence therapy is a promising strategy to treat multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a potent opportunistic pathogen because of an array of virulence factors that are regulated by quorum sensing systems.

Methods

The virulence features of four multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa strains were investigated upon exposure to the sub-lethal dose of gamma rays (1 kGy), and sub-inhibitory concentrations of bioactive metabolites recovered from local halophilic strains in comparison to control. Then, the gene expression of AHL-mediated quorum sensing systems (las/rhl) was quantitatively determined in treated and untreated groups by real-time PCR.

Results

The bioactive metabolites recovered from halophilic strains previously isolated from saline ecosystems were identified as Halomonas cupida (Halo-Rt1), H. elongate (Halo-Rt2), Vigibacillus natechei (Halo-Rt3), Sediminibacillus terrae (Halo-Rt4) and H. almeriensis (Halo-Rt5). Results revealed that both gamma irradiation and bioactive metabolites significantly reduced the virulence factors of the tested MDR strains. The bioactive metabolites showed a maximum efficiency for inhibiting biofilm formation and rhamnolipids production whereas the gamma irradiation succeeded in decreasing other virulence factors to lower levels in comparison to control. Quantitative-PCR results showed that AHL-mediated quorum sensing systems (las/rhl) in P. aeruginosa strains were downregulated either by halo-bacterial metabolites or gamma irradiation in all treatments except the upregulation of both lasI internal gene and rhlR intact gene in P. aeruginosa NCR-RT3 and both rhlI internal gene and rhlR intact gene in P. aeruginosa U3 by nearly two folds or more upon exposure to gamma irradiation. The most potent result was observed in the expression of lasI internal gene that was downregulated by more than ninety folds in P. aeruginosa NCR-RT2 after treatment with metabolites of S. terrae (Halo-Rt4). Analyzing metabolites recovered from H. cupida (Halo-Rt1) and H. elongate (Halo-Rt2) using LC–ESI–MS/MS revealed many chemical compounds that have quorum quenching properties including glabrol, 5,8-dimethoxyquinoline-2-carbaldehyde, linoleoyl ethanolamide, agelasine, penigequinolones derivatives, berberine, tetracosanoic acid, and liquidambaric lactone in the former halophile and phloretin, lycoctonine, fucoxanthin, and crassicauline A in the latter one.

Conclusion

QS inhibitors can significantly reduce the pathogenicity of MDR P. aeruginosa strains; and thus can be an effective and successful strategy for treating antibiotic resistant traits.
Clinical manifestations, antimicrobial resistance and genomic feature analysis of multidrug-resistant Elizabethkingia strains
Authors: Wu Chongyang , Xiong Li , Liao Quanfeng , Zhang Weili , Xiao Yuling , Xie Yi
Published: April 2024

Background

Elizabethkingia is emerging as an opportunistic pathogen in humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical epidemiology, antimicrobial susceptibility, virulence factors, and genome features of Elizabethkingia spp.

Methods

Clinical data from 71 patients who were diagnosed with Elizabethkingia-induced pneumonia and bacteremia between August 2019 and September 2021 were analyzed. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on seven isolates, and the results were compared with a dataset of 83 available Elizabethkingia genomes. Genomic features, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) results and clusters of orthologous groups (COGs) were analyzed.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 56.9 ± 20.7 years, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 29.6% (21/71). Elizabethkingia strains were obtained mainly from intensive care units (36.6%, 26/71) and emergency departments (32.4%, 23/71). The majority of the strains were isolated from respiratory tract specimens (85.9%, 61/71). All patients had a history of broad-spectrum antimicrobial exposure. Hospitalization for invasive mechanical ventilation or catheter insertion was found to be a risk factor for infection. The isolates displayed a high rate of resistance to cephalosporins and carbapenems, but all were susceptible to minocycline and colistin. Genomic analysis identified five β-lactamase genes (blaGOB, blaBlaB, blaCME, blaOXA, and blaTEM) responsible for β-lactam resistance and virulence genes involved in stress adaptation (ureB/G, katA/B, and clpP), adherence (groEL, tufA, and htpB) and immune modulation (gmd, tviB, cps4J, wbtIL, cap8E/D/G, and rfbC). Functional analysis of the COGs revealed that “metabolism” constituted the largest category within the core genome, while “information storage and processing” was predominant in both the accessory and unique genomes. The unique genes in our 7 strains were mostly enriched in KEGG pathways related to microRNAs in cancer, drug resistance (β-lactam and vancomycin), ABC transporters, biological metabolism and biosynthesis, and nucleotide excision repair mechanisms.

Conclusion

The Elizabethkingia genus exhibits multidrug resistance and carries carbapenemase genes. This study presents a comparative genomic analysis of Elizabethkingia, providing knowledge that facilitates a better understanding of this microorganism.
Agomir-122-loaded nanoparticles coated with cell membrane of activated fibroblasts to treat frozen shoulder based on homologous targeting
Authors: Peng Zhen , Qi Beijie , Luo Zhiwen , Sun Yaying , Zhang Xingyu , Lin Jinrong , Pang Jinhui , Zhang Peng , Zhao Zhihu , Wang Xianwen , Chen Jiwu
Published: April 2024

As a common musculoskeletal disorder, frozen shoulder is characterized by thickened joint capsule and limited range of motion, affecting 2–5% of the general population and more than 20% of patients with diabetes mellitus. Pathologically, joint capsule fibrosis resulting from fibroblast activation is the key event. The activated fibroblasts are proliferative and contractive, producing excessive collagen. Albeit high prevalence, effective anti-fibrosis modalities, especially fibroblast-targeting therapies, are still lacking. In this study, microRNA-122 was first identified from sequencing data as a potential therapeutic agent to antagonize fibroblast activation. Then, Agomir-122, an analog of microRNA-122, was loaded into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (Agomir-122@NP), a carrier with excellent biocompatibility for the agent delivery. Moreover, relying on the homologous targeting effect, we coated Agomir-122@NP with the cell membrane derived from activated fibroblasts (Agomir-122@MNP), with an attempt to inhibit the proliferation, contraction, and collagen production of abnormally activated fibroblasts. After confirming the targeting effect of Agomir-122@MNP on activated fibroblasts in vitro, we proved that Agomir-122@MNP effectively curtailed fibroblasts activation, ameliorated joint capsule fibrosis, and restored range of motion in mouse models both prophylactically and therapeutically. Overall, an effective targeted delivery method was developed with promising translational value against frozen shoulder.

Graphical Abstract
Recombination analysis on the receptor switching event of MERS-CoV and its close relatives: implications for the emergence of MERS-CoV
Authors: Tolentino Jarel Elgin , Lytras Spyros , Ito Jumpei , Sato Kei
Published: April 2024

Background

PlMERS-CoV is a coronavirus known to cause severe disease in humans, taxonomically classified under the subgenus Merbecovirus. Recent findings showed that the close relatives of MERS-CoV infecting vespertillionid bats (family Vespertillionidae), named NeoCoV and PDF-2180, use their hosts’ ACE2 as their entry receptor, unlike the DPP4 receptor usage of MERS-CoV. Previous research suggests that this difference in receptor usage between these related viruses is a result of recombination. However, the precise location of the recombination breakpoints and the details of the recombination event leading to the change of receptor usage remain unclear.

Methods

We used maximum likelihood-based phylogenetics and genetic similarity comparisons to characterise the evolutionary history of all complete Merbecovirus genome sequences. Recombination events were detected by multiple computational methods implemented in the recombination detection program. To verify the influence of recombination, we inferred the phylogenetic relation of the merbecovirus genomes excluding recombinant segments and that of the viruses’ receptor binding domains and examined the level of congruency between the phylogenies. Finally, the geographic distribution of the genomes was inspected to identify the possible location where the recombination event occurred.

Results

Similarity plot analysis and the recombination-partitioned phylogenetic inference showed that MERS-CoV is highly similar to NeoCoV (and PDF-2180) across its whole genome except for the spike-encoding region. This is confirmed to be due to recombination by confidently detecting a recombination event between the proximal ancestor of MERS-CoV and a currently unsampled merbecovirus clade. Notably, the upstream recombination breakpoint was detected in the N-terminal domain and the downstream breakpoint at the S2 subunit of spike, indicating that the acquired recombined fragment includes the receptor-binding domain. A tanglegram comparison further confirmed that the receptor binding domain-encoding region of MERS-CoV was acquired via recombination. Geographic mapping analysis on sampling sites suggests the possibility that the recombination event occurred in Africa.

Conclusion

Together, our results suggest that recombination can lead to receptor switching of merbecoviruses during circulation in bats. These results are useful for future epidemiological assessments and surveillance to understand the spillover risk of bat coronaviruses to the human population.
Transcarotid vascular access for transcatheter aortic valve implantation: is choosing the left side always right?
Authors: Salihu Adil , Rotzinger David C. , Fahrni Guillaume , Nowacka Anna , Antiochos Panagiotis , Fournier Stephane , Muller Olivier , Kirsch Matthias , Lu Henri
Published: April 2024

Background

The transcarotid (TC) vascular access for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as the first-choice alternative to the transfemoral access, in patients unsuitable for the latter. The use of both the left and right common carotid arteries (CCAs) for TC-TAVI has been described, but the optimal side is subject to debate. We conducted this pilot study to compare the level of vessel tortuosity and plaque burden from either the left CCA to the aortic annulus, or the right CCA to the aortic annulus, considering them as surrogates for technical and procedural complexity.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent TC-TAVI between 2018 and 2021 in our institution were included. Using three-dimensional reconstruction, pre-TAVI neck and chest computed tomography angiography exams were reviewed to assess the tortuosity index (TI), sum of angles metric, as well as plaque burden, between each CCA and the aortic annulus.

Results

We included 46 patients who underwent TC-TAVI. No significant difference regarding the mean TIs between the left and right sides (respectively 1.20 and 1.19, p = 0.82), the mean sum of angles (left side: 396°, right side: 384°, p = 0.27), and arterial plaque burden (arterial plaque found in 30% of left CCAs and 45% of right CCAs, p = 0.19) was found.

Conclusions

We found no convincing data favoring the use of one particular access side over the other one. The choice of the CCA side in TC-TAVI should to be made on a case-by-case basis, in a multidisciplinary fashion, and may also depend on the operators’ experience.
Usability and preliminary effectiveness of an app-based physical activity and education program for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis – a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Weber F. , Kloek C. , Stuhrmann S. , Blum Y. , Grüneberg C. , Veenhof C.
Published: April 2024

Background

Hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) are highly prevalent worldwide. The guidelines recommend physical activity and education as the core treatments for osteoarthritis. Digital health has the potential to engage people in physical activity and disease management. Therefore, we conducted a pilot trial to assess the usability and preliminary effectiveness of an app-based physical activity and education program (Join2Move) compared to usual care for people with hip and/or knee OA in Germany.

Methods

A randomized controlled pilot study was conducted. Individuals with diagnosed or self-reported knee and hip OA were included. Allocation to the intervention or control group was randomized. The intervention group received the Join2Move program. The Join2Move program was previously developed as a website and evaluated in the Netherlands. For the current study, the program was translated and adapted to the German context and adjusted from a website to an app. The control group received usual care. The primary outcomes were usability and preliminary effectiveness (pain and physical functioning). Measurements were taken at baseline and at twelve weeks. The data analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0).

Results

Sixty participants, with a mean age of 61.9 (SD ± 7.2) years, were allocated to the intervention (n = 32) or the control group (n = 28) and included in the analysis. The majority of participants had knee OA (68%), and 12% had hip and knee OA. The dropout rate was n = 11 (18%). No adverse events were reported. Usability was rated as acceptable (mean System Usability Scale = 71.3/100) with a wide range (32.5 to 100). Statistically significant between-group differences were found only for pain (mean difference 8.52 (95% CI 1.01 to 16.04), p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Join2Move demonstrated acceptable usability. The preliminary results of the pilot trial indicate the potential of a stand-alone app for the treatment of patients with hip or knee OA. However, the acceptable usability of Join2Move limits its recommendation for everyone. There appears to be room for improvement in app usability and in identifying patients for whom the app is suitable and the right time to use a stand-alone app.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00027164.
An integrated toolkit for human microglia functional genomics
Authors: Haq Imdadul , Ngo Jason C. , Roy Nainika , Pan Richard L. , Nawsheen Nadiya , Chiu Rebecca , Zhang Ya , Fujita Masashi , Soni Rajesh K. , Wu Xuebing , Bennett David A. , Menon Vilas , Olah Marta , Sher Falak
Published: April 2024

Background

Microglia, the brain’s resident immune cells, play vital roles in brain development, and disorders like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Human iPSC-derived microglia (iMG) provide a promising model to study these processes. However, existing iMG generation protocols face challenges, such as prolonged differentiation time, lack of detailed characterization, and limited gene function investigation via CRISPR-Cas9.

Methods

Our integrated toolkit for in-vitro microglia functional genomics optimizes iPSC differentiation into iMG through a streamlined two-step, 20-day process, producing iMG with a normal karyotype. We confirmed the iMG’s authenticity and quality through single-cell RNA sequencing, chromatin accessibility profiles (ATAC-Seq), proteomics and functional tests. The toolkit also incorporates a drug-dependent CRISPR-ON/OFF system for temporally controlled gene expression. Further, we facilitate the use of multi-omic data by providing online searchable platform that compares new iMG profiles to human primary microglia: https://sherlab.shinyapps.io/IPSC-derived-Microglia/.

Results

Our method generates iMG that closely align with human primary microglia in terms of transcriptomic, proteomic, and chromatin accessibility profiles. Functionally, these iMG exhibit Ca2 + transients, cytokine driven migration, immune responses to inflammatory signals, and active phagocytosis of CNS related substrates including synaptosomes, amyloid beta and myelin. Significantly, the toolkit facilitates repeated iMG harvesting, essential for large-scale experiments like CRISPR-Cas9 screens. The standalone ATAC-Seq profiles of our iMG closely resemble primary microglia, positioning them as ideal tools to study AD-associated single nucleotide variants (SNV) especially in the genome regulatory regions.

Conclusions

Our advanced two-step protocol rapidly and efficiently produces authentic iMG. With features like the CRISPR-ON/OFF system and a comprehensive multi-omic data platform, our toolkit equips researchers for robust microglial functional genomic studies. By facilitating detailed SNV investigation and offering a sustainable cell harvest mechanism, the toolkit heralds significant progress in neurodegenerative disease drug research and therapeutic advancement.
New graphical models for sequential data and the improved state estimations by data-conditioned driving noises
Authors: Lee Wonjung
Published: April 2024

A prevalent problem in statistical signal processing, applied statistics, and time series analysis arises from the attempt to identify the hidden state of Markov process based on a set of available noisy observations. In the context of sequential data, filtering refers to the probability distribution of the underlying Markovian system given the measurements made at or before the time of the estimated state. In addition to the filtering, the smoothing distribution is obtained from incorporating measurements made after the time of the estimated state into the filtered solution. This work proposes a number of new filters and smoothers that, in contrast to the traditional schemes, systematically make use of the process noises to give rise to enhanced performances in addressing the state estimation problem. In doing so, our approaches for the resolution are characterized by the application of the graphical models; the graph-based framework not only provides a unified perspective on the existing filters and smoothers but leads us to design new algorithms in a consistent and comprehensible manner. Moreover, the graph models facilitate the implementation of the suggested algorithms through message passing on the graph.
The role of university–industry linkages in promoting technology transfer: implementation of triple helix model relations
Authors: Hailu Assefa Tesfaye
Published: April 2024

This study recognized the importance of linking higher education institutions with various industries in a given country to promote technology transfer and sustainable development. However, in one or another way, the linkage was not well-practiced in Ethiopia. The study aims to assess the role of university–industry linkages in technology transfer and identify the barriers and opportunities of the linkage. Universities have institutionalized intermediary organizations such as technology transfer offices, collaborative research centers, incubators, and science parks to enhance university–industry collaboration. The collaboration between academia and industry is understood as the transactions between universities and firms that involve the exchange of knowledge, skills, resources, and capabilities. The study uses the concept of the triple helix model and proposes the establishment of the Higher Education Institutions–Industry Resource Integration Center as a way forward to solving the problems that Ethiopian industries are facing. A triple helix of university–industry–government relations is emerging as a common format that transcends national boundaries. The integration of these functions is changing the nature of the university and its role in society. The potential for national development in Ethiopia and elsewhere resides in entrepreneurial universities taking the lead in infusing knowledge, innovation, technology, and enterprise into the entire society.
Dietary eubiotics of microbial muramidase and glycan improve intestinal villi, ileum microbiota composition and production trait of broiler
Authors: Cho Sungbo , Kumar Shanmugam Suresh , Ramirez Santiago , Valientes Rolando , Kim In Ho
Published: April 2024

Background

Optimal gut health is important to maximize growth performance and feed efficiency in broiler chickens. A total of 1,365 one-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chickens were randomly divided into 5 treatments groups with 21 replicates, 13 birds per replicate. The present research investigated effects of microbial muramidase or a precision glycan alone or in combination on growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility, total blood carotenoid content, intestinal villus length, meat quality and gut microbiota in broiler chickens. Treatments included: NC: negative control (basal diet group); PC: positive control (basal diet + 0.02% probiotics); MR: basal diet + 0.035% microbial muramidase; PG: basal diet + 0.1% precision glycan; and MRPG: basal diet + 0.025% MR + 0.1% PG, respectively.

Results

MRPG group increased the body weight gain and feed intake (P < 0.05) compared with NC group. Moreover, it significantly increased total serum carotenoid (P < 0.05) and MRPG altered the microbial diversity in ileum contents. The MRPG treatment group increased the abundance of the phylum Firmicutes, and family Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Oscillospiraceae, Lactobacillaceae, Peptostreptococcaceae and decreased the abundance of the phylum Campilobacterota, Bacteroidota and family Bacteroidaceae. Compared with the NC group, the chickens fed MRPG showed significantly increased in duodenum villus length at end the trial.

Conclusion

In this study, overall results showed that the synergetic effects of MR and PG showed enhancing growth performance, total serum carotenoid level and altering gut microbiota composition of broilers. The current research indicates that co-supplementation of MR and PG in broiler diets enhances intestinal health, consequently leading to an increased broiler production.
Factors associated with the use of cannabis for self-medication by adults: data from the French TEMPO cohort study
Authors: Wallez Solène , Kousignian Isabelle , Hecker Irwin , Rezag Bara Selma Faten , Andersen Astrid Juhl , Melchior Maria , Cadwallader Jean-Sébastien , Mary-Krause Murielle
Published: April 2024

Background

Medical cannabis, legalized in many countries, remains illegal in France. Despite an experiment in the medical use of cannabis that began in March 2021 in France, little is known about the factors associated with the use of cannabis for self-medication among adults.

Methods

Data came from the French TEMPO cohort and were collected between December 2020 and May 2021. Overall, 345 participants aged 27–47 were included. Cannabis for self-medication was defined using the following questions: ‘Why do you use cannabis?’ and ‘In what form do you use cannabis?’. The penalized regression method “Elastic net” was used to determine factors associated with the use of cannabis for self-medication, with the hypothesis that it is mainly used for pain in individuals who have already used cannabis.

Results

More than half of the participants reported having ever used cannabis (58%). Only 10% used it for self-declared medical reasons (n = 36). All self-medication cannabis users, except one, were also using cannabis for recreational purposes. The main factors associated with cannabis use for self-medication vs. other reasons included cannabis use trajectories, the presence of musculoskeletal disorders, tobacco smoking, and parental divorce.

Conclusions

Engaging in cannabis use during adolescence or early adulthood may increase the likelihood of resorting to self-medication in adulthood. Due to the propensity of individuals with cannabis use during adolescence to resort to uncontrolled products for self-medication, this population should be more systematically targeted and screened for symptoms and comorbidities that may be associated with cannabis use.
Quality and quantity of clinical trials on low back pain published by Indian physiotherapists
Authors: Suhail Ammar , Quais Sarah
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Clinical trials are regarded as the gold standard evidence for establishing the effectiveness and efficacy of different therapeutic strategies. LBP is a globally prevalent health symptom that is commonly encountered clinically by the physiotherapist. Physiotherapeutic strategies are essential in managing individuals with low back pain (LBP). High-quality clinical trials are required to establish the efficacy/effectiveness of physiotherapeutic management strategies. A clinical trial’s generalizability depends on various factors such as geographical location, population, and healthcare facilities. Evaluating the publication trends and quality of clinical trials conducted by Indian physiotherapists will help determine the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic strategies in managing LBP with respect to the Indian context. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the publication trends and quality of clinical trials conducted by Indian physiotherapists.

Methods

The authors used MEDLINE and the PEDro database to screen for eligible trials. The research encompassed clinical trials addressing low back pain that were authored by Indian physiotherapists and were published between January 2005 and December 2021. The included studies were analyzed for quality using the PEDro Scale. The authors also evaluated sample size calculation, trial registration status, and adherence to the CONSORT checklist.

Results

A total of 866 studies were screened, of which 37 studies were included for final analysis. Most of the studies were published in the southern states of India (Maharashtra and Karnataka), and most were published in 2019. Methodological quality evaluation by PEDro yielded a mean score of 5.17 (range, 2–9). The major missing elements from PEDro items were blinding and intention to treat analysis. Sample size calculation was not found in 83.7% of the studies. Trial registrations were reported in only 10.8% of the studies, and the trials did not report adherence to standard guidelines such as CONSORT.

Conclusion

Included studies showed poor to fair methodological quality according to the PEDro Scale. There has been an increase in the number of RCTs published by Indian physiotherapists. However, there is significant room for improvement in the conduct and reporting of trials.
Laplace-domain crosstalk-free source-encoded elastic full-waveform inversion using time-domain solvers
Authors: Liu Zhaolun , Hoffmann Jürgen , Bachmann Etienne , Cui Congyue , Simons Frederik J. , Tromp Jeroen
Published: April 2024

Crosstalk-free source-encoded elastic full-waveform inversion (FWI) using time-domain solvers demonstrates skill and efficiency at conducting seismic inversions involving multiple sources and receivers with limited computational resources. A drawback of common formulations of the procedure is that, by sweeping through the frequency domain randomly at a rate of one or a few sparsely sampled frequencies per shot, it is difficult to simultaneously incorporate time-selective data windows, as necessary for the targeting of arrivals or wave packets during the various stages of the inversion. Here, we solve this problem by using the Laplace transform of the data. Using complex-valued frequencies allows for damping the records with flexible decay rates and temporal offsets that target specific traveltimes. We present the theory of crosstalk-free source-encoded FWI in the Laplace domain, develop the details of its implementation, and illustrate the procedure with numerical examples relevant to exploration-scale scenarios.
Structural interpretation of the basement beneath the Southern Desert of Iraq based on aeromagnetic data
Authors: Al-Bahadily Hayder A. , Fairhead James D. , Al-Rahim Ali M.
Published: April 2024

The Southern Desert (SD) of Iraq is located in the southernmost region of Iraq and is tectonically located on the stable part (proximal domain) of the Arabian Platform. The area is characterized by a considerable thickness of nonmagnetic Phanerozoic sediments overlying a reworked Proterozoic basement. Due to the intense nature of the karst near-surface geology, the basement has neither been seismically imaged nor drilled. In such situations, potential field (gravity and magnetic) exploration methods can often help to identify and map the deep structure of the basement. Here, the aeromagnetic field data, which cover all of the SD, are used to determine the structure and approximate depth of the basement. We use the combined results of the tilt derivative and phase preserving dynamic range compression (PPDRC) methods to qualitatively delineate the main basement structures and then use the source parameter imaging (SPI), tilt-depth (TD), and finite SPI (FSPI) methods to determine the basement depths. The qualitative interpretation of the tilt derivative and PPDRC methods identifies three north–south to northeast–southwest-trending linear negative anomalies that could represent extensional grabens in the basement surface. These grabens divide the basement into three blocks: the northwest block, the central block, and the southeast block. The magnetic anomalies over the basement blocks suggest that the northwest and central blocks are cut by a set of north–south to north-northwest–south-southeast and northeast–southwest faults. Depth estimation methods over the uplifted blocks have minimum depths between 4 and 5 km, whereas, over the graben, the depths range from 7 km to in excess of 12 km. The FSPI method, unlike the SPI and TD methods that use an infinite depth source body, gives depths generally deeper by up to 1.1 km if the assumed Curie-point depth is 21 km. A more realistic Curie-point depth of 32 km is used in the final interpretation model. These inferred basement blocks, grabens, and subbasin structures agree in general with the regional structures associated with the Arabian Peninsula and could provide an important framework for developing future hydrocarbon exploration strategies of the SD.
The Impact of High Adiposity on Endometrial Progesterone Response and Metallothionein Regulation
Authors: Murphy Alina R , Asif Huma , Cingoz Harun , Gourronc Françoise A , Ankrum James A , Klingelhutz Aloysius J , Kim J Julie
Published: April 2024

Context

Obesity is a disease with deleterious effects on the female reproductive tract, including the endometrium.

Objective

We sought to understand the effects of excess adipose on the benign endometrium.

Methods

A physiologic in vitro coculture system was developed, consisting of multicellular human endometrial organoids, adipose spheroids, and menstrual cycle hormones. Native human endometrial tissue samples from women with and without obesity were also analyzed. Benign endometrial tissues from premenopausal women ages 33 to 53 undergoing hysterectomy were obtained following written consent at Northwestern University Prentice Women’s Hospital, Chicago, Illinois. Gene expression, protein expression, chromatin binding, and expression of DNA damage and oxidative damage markers were measured.

Results

Under high adiposity conditions, endometrial organoids downregulated endometrial secretory phase genes, suggestive of an altered progesterone response. Progesterone specifically upregulated the metallothionein (MT) gene family in the epithelial cells of endometrial organoids, while high adiposity significantly downregulated the MT genes. Silencing MT genes in endometrial epithelial cells resulted in increased DNA damage, illustrating the protective role of MTs. Native endometrium from women with obesity displayed increased MT expression and oxidative damage in the stroma and not in the epithelium, indicating the cell-specific impact of obesity on MT genes.

Conclusion

Taken together, the in vitro and in vivo systems used here revealed that high adiposity or obesity can alter MT expression by decreasing progesterone response in the epithelial cells and increasing oxidative stress in the stroma.
A Clinical Trial of High-Dose Growth Hormone in a Patient With a Dominant-Negative Growth Hormone Receptor Mutation
Authors: Merchant Nadia , Houchin Lisa , Boucher Kimberly , Dauber Andrew
Published: April 2024

Context

Rare patients with short stature and growth hormone (GH) resistance have dominant-negative variants in the GH receptor. We describe a patient with GH resistance due to elevated levels of GH binding protein and demonstrate the potential for a precision medicine intervention.

Objective

To determine whether high-dose GH can overcome GH resistance in this specific patient resulting in normal insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 levels and improved growth rates.

Methods

Single patient trial of ascending doses of GH followed by a dose stable phase: total 12 months of treatment. The patient has a heterozygous variant in the GH receptor resulting in elevated levels of GH binding protein manifesting as GH resistance and severe short stature. Daily subcutaneous GH was administered, starting at 50 µg/kg/day and escalating to 250 µg/kg/day until goal IGF-1 achieved. The subject continued on 250 µg/kg/day for a total treatment duration of 12 months. The primary outcome measure was the dose of GH required to achieve an IGF-1 level above the midpoint of the normal range. Secondary endpoints included height velocity and the change in height SDS during the first year of treatment.

Results

A dose of GH of 250 µg/kg/day achieved the target IGF-1 level. The patient's annualized height velocity was 8.7 cm/year, an increase of 3.4 cm/year from baseline, resulting in a 0.81 SD gain in height.

Conclusion

A precision medicine approach of extremely high dose GH was able to overcome GH resistance in a patient with a dominant-negative variant in the GH receptor resulting in elevated GH binding protein levels.
Management of Intraosseous Subarcuate Loop of the Anterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery During Trigeminal Schwannoma Resection: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: De Bonis Alessandro , Plou Pedro , Leonel Luciano César P. C. , Donato Glaudir , Carlson Matthew L. , Peris-Celda Maria
Published: April 2024

The intraosseous subarcuate loop is an anatomic variant of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA), in which the artery gives off the subarcuate artery at the apex of the loop, entrapped in the subarcuate fossa (SF) of the temporal bone. First reported by Tanriover and Rhoton,
1
few others
2-5
have addressed this additional challenge during cerebellopontine angle surgery, occurring in 0.6%–4%.
3,6
We present a case of the safe mobilization of the intraosseous variant of the AICA and resection of a trigeminal schwannoma through a retrosigmoid approach with reverse anterior petrosectomy. Illustration of the same anatomic variation in a specimen is also provided.

A 42-year-old male patient presented with intermittent right trigeminal neuropathy. MRI identified an extra-axial dumbbell-shaped heterogeneously contrast-enhancing lesion extending from the right Meckel cave into the cerebellopontine angle. The 3D-CISS sequence demonstrated a possible vascular loop of the right AICA within the SF. Physical examination was negative.

Documented and verified informed consent was obtained.

A right retrosigmoid craniotomy with reverse anterior petrosectomy was performed. The subarcuate artery was coagulated and divided, and the intraosseous loop of the AICA was safely mobilized, with the steps demonstrated on a specimen. The extra-axial mass was exposed, and gross total resection was achieved. The Doppler signal in AICA was appropriate at the end of the operation. The patient recovered well with mild ipsilateral trigeminal sensory loss and no new neurological deficits.

Intraosseous AICA loop in the SF is a relatively common anatomic variation. Identification and safe mobilization are essential to avoid intraoperative lesion of AICA.
Voluntary Wheel Running Reduces Cardiometabolic Risks in Female Offspring Exposed to Lifelong High-Fat, High-Sucrose Diet
Authors: GONZALEZ KASSANDRA , MERLIN ANDREA CHIÑAS , ROYE ERIN , JU BEOMSOO , LEE YOUNGIL , CHICCO ADAM J. , CHUNG EUNHEE
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Maternal and postnatal overnutrition has been linked to an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases in offspring. This study investigated the impact of adult-onset voluntary wheel running to counteract cardiometabolic risks in female offspring exposed to a life-long high-fat, high-sucrose (HFHS) diet.

Methods

Dams were fed either an HFHS or a low-fat, low-sucrose (LFLS) diet starting from 8 wk before pregnancy and continuing throughout gestation and lactation. Offspring followed their mothers’ diets. At 15 wk of age, they were divided into sedentary (Sed) or voluntary wheel running (Ex) groups, resulting in four groups: LFLS/Sed (n = 10), LFLS/Ex (n = 5), HFHS/Sed (n = 6), HFHS/Ex (n = 5). Cardiac function was assessed at 25 wk, with tissue collection at 26 wk for mitochondrial respiratory function and protein analysis. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA.

Results

Although maternal HFHS diet did not affect the offspring’s body weight at weaning, continuous HFHS feeding postweaning resulted in increased body weight and adiposity, irrespective of the exercise regimen. HFHS/Sed offspring showed increased left ventricular wall thickness and elevated expression of enzymes involved in fatty acid transport (CD36, FABP3), lipogenesis (DGAT), glucose transport (GLUT4), oxidative stress (protein carbonyls, nitrotyrosine), and early senescence markers (p16, p21). Their cardiac mitochondria displayed lower oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) efficiency and reduced expression of OXPHOS complexes and fatty acid metabolism enzymes (ACSL5, CPT1B). However, HFHS/Ex offspring mitigated these effects, aligning more with LFLS/Sed offspring.

Conclusions

Adult-onset voluntary wheel running effectively counteracts the detrimental cardiac effects of a lifelong HFHS diet, improving mitochondrial efficiency, reducing oxidative stress, and preventing early senescence. This underscores the significant role of physical activity in mitigating diet-induced cardiometabolic risks.
O processo administrativo eletrônico e sua disciplina no direito administrativo brasileiro: entre novos desafios e velhos problemas
Authors: Baptista Patrícia Ferreira , Netto Leonardo Silveira Antoun
Published: April 2024

O presente estudo tem por objeto apontar os desafios e os problemas da disciplina, no direito administrativo brasileiro, do processo administrativo eletrônico. Para situar o leitor, o texto inicia com breve histórico do desenvolvimento e da implantação de ferramentas de processo eletrônico nas administrações públicas brasileiras, com particular destaque para o modelo mais difundido, que é o Sistema Eletrônico de Informações (SEI). Na sequência, discorre sobre os principais novos desafios para o aprofundamento da digitalização com respeito às garantias do estado democrático de direito e aos direitos dos cidadãos. Destaca, ainda, que a digitalização dos processos, ao contrário do esperado, não significou a superação de problemas antes existentes. Conclui, por fim, com uma reflexão acerca da efetiva capacidade transformadora dos processos administrativos eletrônicos ou se, ao contrário, limitam-se à ferramenta de transposição burocrática.
O exercício da função jurisdicional pela administração pública: uma análise histórica dos tribunais administrativos tributários
Authors: Deligne Maysa de Sá Pittondo
Published: April 2024

O principal objetivo deste artigo é evidenciar o exercício de verdadeira função jurisdicional pela administração pública quando do julgamento de litígios tributários, a partir de um relato histórico da instituição e funcionamento dos tribunais administrativos tributários. A pesquisa é bibliográfica, utilizando-se o método dedutivo. O recorte deste artigo é na perspectiva tributária, sem prejuízo de suas premissas serem igualmente adotadas para a solução de litígios administrativos que impliquem a privação de bens, restrição ou delimitação de direitos individuais, na forma do art. 5º, LIV e LV da Constituição da República Federativa do Brasil de 1988, com efetiva participação das partes à luz do contraditório, ampla defesa e devido processo legal. Busca-se afastar a arraigada percepção doutrinária no sentido de que o Poder Judiciário monopoliza o exercício de função jurisdicional de dizer o direito aplicável ao caso concreto no Brasil diante de uma lide.
Direitos dos usuários de serviços públicos no ambiente do governo eletrônico e da administração pública digital
Authors: Nogueira Júnior Dario Azevedo , Valle Vivian Cristina Lima López , Beneli Ana Carolina
Published: April 2024

O artigo aborda as transformações do Estado e da administração pública no ambiente de um governo eletrônico e de uma administração pública digital. Analisa a estrutura do e-gov brasileiro, dificuldades de interoperabilidade, operacionalização e de implementação e as possibilidades referentes ao uso de dados abertos. Sustenta a necessidade de uma tutela jurídica autônoma do cidadão no ambiente da administração pública digital e busca analisar a proteção do usuário de serviço público, em especial na Lei nº 14.129/2021. Como conclusão, defende um direito à cidadania digital e acesso e democratização da prestação de serviços públicos digitais.
Evidence-Based Balneology – Motto of the 47th ISMH Congress, Techirghiol, 23 – 25 May 2024
Authors: Onose Gelu , Munteanu Constantin
Published: April 2024

Editorial
Algunas implicaciones de los instrumentos de soft law de la Agencia Nacional de Contratación Pública
Authors: Bernal Berrio Luisa Fernanda
Published: April 2024

El presente artículo de investigación se desarrollará desde una aproximación descriptivoanalítica,un acercamiento a aquellos factores que inciden a la hora de tipificar dentro de un marco regulatorio de soft law o de hard law los instrumentos regulatorios expedidos por la Agencia Nacional de Contratación Pública – Colombia Compra Eficiente, sus controles previos y judiciales en conjunto con la definición de su alcance en sentido restrictivo o amplio para así evidenciar si su incumplimiento deriva en sanciones de hecho o de derecho.
Análisis de casos institucionales
Authors: Hernández Umaña Iván Darío , Patiño-Ospina Sandra Carolina , Salgar Vesga Angy Tatiana , Gil Torres Ángel David
Published: April 2024

En este capítulo se abordan tres casos institucionales: Defensoría del Contribuyente de la dian, Asociación de Mujeres Empoderadas y Emprendedoras del Cañón del Combeima y la Ley de Cine, que representan diferentes tipos de organización tanto de orden público como privado. Se tratan tipos de regulación (externa, introyecta, identificada e integrada) de forma directa e indirecta para la internalización de las reglas sociales según la apropiación de estas por parte de los individuos, todo ello bajo el tema principal de este capítulo: un análisis práctico a la luz de la teoría de integración organísmica para la formalización sostenible en Colombia.
Economía del rebusque e informalidad: una propuesta conceptual hacia una nueva estructura regulatoria
Authors: Restrepo Patiño Medardo
Published: April 2024

La informalidad económica ha estado asociada históricamente con la economía colombiana, como resultado de su estructura económica basada en la economía del rebusque. La necesidad de inmediatez en las rentas de rebusque exigió el establecimiento de arreglos sociales que promovieron actividades económicas altamente flexibles que pudieran ajustarse a las variaciones propias de las economías del rebusque. El problema es que dichos arreglos sociales han permanecido a lo largo del desarrollo económico del país, lo que se ha traducido en que la informalidad se entienda como una forma válida de actividad económica dentro de la sociedad colombiana. Desconociendo esta realidad, la regulación de la informalidad se ha centrado en controles basados en costos y tributación, pero sus efectos han sido de corto plazo y no han podido romper su pervivencia. En este capítulo se plantea una nueva forma de regulación que reconozca los arreglos sociales que sustentan la informalidad y que, más que actuar directamente sobre la decisión de ser informal o no, mejor se actúe sobre las economías del rebusque controlando sus necesidades de inmediatez en sus resultados y propendiendo a que la economía del rebusque evolucione hacia una forma de obtención de rentas basada en la formalidad
EDITORIAL
Authors: E-Mosaico Revista
Published: April 2024

Editorial
Participatory methods for understanding 0-3s' technology use in family homes
Authors: Arnott Lorna , Mevawalla Zinnia
Published: April 2024

In the third article in this series, Dr Lorna Arnott from The Strathclyde Institute of Education and Dr Zinnia Mevawalla from the University of Strathclyde, discuss the participatory methods used to conduct research with babies for their project.
Exploring the Sound Absorption and Sound Insulation Capabilities of Natural Fiber Composites: Nipa Palm Peduncle Fiber
Authors:   Faculty of Science and Technology, Songkhla Rajabhat University, Songkhla 90000 Thailand, Chanlert Purintorn , Ruamcharoen Polphat ,   Faculty of Science and Technology, Songkhla Rajabhat University, Songkhla 90000 Thailand, Kerdkaew Thanate ,   Chemistry and Biology Unit, Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the acoustic properties of nipa palm peduncle fiber (NPPF) composites, a promising natural fiber with a tensile strength of 277 MPa, a yield strength of 49.0 MPa, and a Young’s modulus of 12.0 GPa. We focus on understanding how NPPF’s physical characteristics influence its sound absorption and insulation capabilities. Through experimental analysis, we found that the sample density directly affects the sound absorption coefficient (SAC) and transmission loss (TL), with denser samples exhibiting better noise reduction. Using the Johnson-Champoux-Allard-Lafarge (JCAL) model, we correlated these acoustic properties with the material’s non-acoustic parameters including flow resistivity (σ), open porosity (), tortuosity (α∞), viscous (Λ) and thermal (Λ' ) characteristic lengths along with static thermal permeability (). The results validate the JCAL model’s predictions, offering insights into designing effective, eco-friendly acoustic materials. This study not only highlights NPPF composites’ notable acoustic performance but also underlines their potential for contributing to sustainable development.
CFPG: Creating a Common Fungal Pathogenic Genes Database through Data Mining
Authors:   Bioinformatics Program, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia, Tan Kenneth Lee Shean ,   LeapOmics Services, Persiaran Jade Hills, Jadite Suites, D1008, Kajang, Selangor 43000, Malaysia, Mohamad Saharuddin Bin ,   Bioinformatics Program, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia,   Centre of Research for Computational Sciences & Informatics for Biology, Environment, Agriculture and Healthcare (CRYSTAL), University of Malaya, Bioindustry, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
Published: April 2024

Fu ngal pathogenicity is one of the most vigorously tackled ecological and medicinal issues facing many scientists. Comparative genomics is an extremely important methodology and tool used to understand fungal pathogenicity, and it allows the development of early diagnostic tools for fungal-inflicted diseases across different host organisms. However, comparative genomics depends heavily on readily available fungal pathogenic gene databases to enable downstream genomics study and the development of new diagnosis and detection methods. Here, we have developed the Common Fungal Pathogenic Genes Database through comparative genomic analysis using 86 publicly available fungal genomic data against fungal pathogenicity-related databases, such as Pathogenic-Host Interaction Database (PHI-base), Carbohydrate-Active enZymes Database (CAZy), and Database of Fungal Virulence Factory (DFVF).