bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of ERM on RNFL, GCIPL and Macular Thickness According to the Severity of Glaucoma
Authors: Han Heeyong , Seol Bo Ram
Published: December 2023

Purpose: To investigate the effect of an epiretinal membrane (ERM) on peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (pRNFLT), macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness (mGCIPLT) and macular thickness (MT) in relation to glaucoma severity using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT).Methods: In total, 105 eyes of 105 glaucoma patients with ERM were matched at a 1:1 ratio with glaucoma patients without ERM according to age, sex, cataract surgery, axial length and mean deviation based on visual field tests. The differences in pRNFLT, mGCIPLT and MT between the two groups were assessed using SS-OCT. Furthermore, the patients were divided into three glaucoma-severity groups, and the differences in pRNFLT, mGCIPLT and MT were compared between glaucoma patients with and without ERM in each group.Results: In all patients, including those with early, moderate, and advanced glaucoma, those with ERM had greater average, temporal quadrant, and 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 o’clock pRNFLT values compared to those without ERM. Additionally, mGCIPLT and MT were thicker in glaucoma patients with ERM in all groups. The difference in pRNFLT at the 7 and 11 o’clock positions between glaucoma patients with and without ERM was significantly more pronounced in the moderate glaucoma group than in the early glaucoma group (p = 0.043 and p = 0.012, respectively).Conclusions: ERM has notable effects on the pRNFLT, mGCIPLT and MT. Furthermore, the magnitude of its effect on pRNFLT varies with glaucoma severity.
Surgical Outcomes in Patients with Intermittent Exotropia with Siblings Who Underwent Surgery by the Same Surgeon
Authors: Lim Chae Won , Kim Won Jae
Published: December 2023

Purpose: We evaluated surgical outcomes in pediatric patients with intermittent exotropia with and without a family history of exotropia surgery performed by the same surgeon.Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of the medical records of pediatric patients aged ≤ 18 years who underwent surgery for intermittent exotropia between September 2015 and December 2021. We compared surgical outcomes between patients with and without a family history of exotropia surgery performed using 1:1 propensity score matching. A successful surgical outcome was defined as achieving alignment between an exodeviation of 10 prism diopters (PD) and an esodeviation of 4 PD.Results: This study included 60 patients with a family history of exotropia surgery and 60 matched controls with no such history. Notably, the log-rank test revealed no significant differences in surgical outcomes between the two groups (p = 0.622). Furthermore, clinical characteristics, including the onset of exotropia, degree of ocular deviation, and age at surgery, were similar between first- and second-born siblings. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in surgical outcomes between the two groups (p= 0.540).Conclusions: Patients with a family history of exotropia surgery do not exhibit significantly different surgical outcomes compared to those with no such history. In addition, no significant differences were observed in surgical outcomes between the first- and second-born siblings.
Prediabetes Reduction from Food Allergen Elimination
Authors: Willis F Buck , Parenti Susan , Adams Hunter Patch
Published: December 2023

The CDC reports that over 38% of the adults in the USA have Prediabetes mellitus (PMD) and in this population of 96 million Americans, 50% likelihood that they will develop Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM2) with a 50% greater chance of obesity. The purpose of this case report was to discuss prediabetes reduction and obesity reduction in an African American subject. Case: A 50-year-old female patient of African American descent presented with HbA1c 6.4%, BMI 32.2, Weight 194.lbs., BP 185/95, Hip Circumference 44.5” and Fat Mass of 92 lbs. (47.5%). After consent was given, the patient was briefed on healthier eating (i.e. eliminate processed foods, high fructose corn syrup, etc.). Then four vials of blood were drawn for ALCAT, Leukocyte Reaction, food allergen testing. Ten days later, the tests results were discussed, and of the 250 foods tested, the patient showed moderate allergic reaction to 36 foods. These foods were eliminated from her diet for the duration of this 12-month treatment plan and alternative food choices were discussed (i.e., eating peaches instead of pears) which showed a significant Leukocyte reaction). She was also taught how to eat smaller positions (< 2 cups) more frequently (every 3-4 hours). The patient showed 99% compliance to the food allergen elimination. Results: All of the variables tested (HbA1c, BMI, Weight, Fat Mass, Blood Pressure, and Hip Circumference) displayed a -26% change in means. Food allergen elimination was an effective in reducing Prediabetes in this woman of African American descent (HbA1c values went from 6.0% to 5.0% in 12 months without medication).
Upper Limits for Velocity, Momentum, and Energy of Motion
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: December 2023

The velocity of a moving object with its non-zero mass or a moving particle with its non-zero mass is less than the speed of light because light has no mass. So, the speed of light is the upper limit for all moving objects in the Universe. In this article, the upper limits for momentum and energy of motion are derived for scientific problem-solving.
Participación del adulto mayor en la construcción de políticas sociales en el cantón Tisaleo
Authors:   Universidad Técnica de Ambato, Espín Meléndez María Cristina , Pérez Yauli Vicente Leonardo ,   Acción Jurídica - Acosta J. Abogados. Acosta & Asociados, Panchi de Jesús Erick Ariel ,   Universidad Técnica de Ambato
Published: December 2023

El fortalecimiento de la democracia directa, implica una mejor participación de los ciudadanos en el gobierno central y local, la obligatoriedad en el desarrollo de mecanismos de participación establecidos en la Constitución de la República y demás normativa infra constitucional, se contrasta con la praxis en la creación de políticas sociales. El objetivo de la investigación se centró, en analizar la participación ciudadana para la construcción de políticas sociales destinadas a los adultos mayores. Si bien en los últimos años los Gobiernos Autónomos Descentralizados (GAD´s) como la Municipalidad de Tisaleo, han acoplado su normativa para garantizar la participación de la ciudadanía en la gestión pública, es necesario mejorar su involucramiento, pues, no existe el conocimiento pleno del derecho que les asiste, lo cual supone exclusión social, que crea una brecha en su ejercicio, acentuada en los grupos de atención prioritaria. La metodología empleada fue de enfoque mixto, aplicando un cuestionario semiestructurado a 50 adultos mayores del programa del adulto mayor (Mies) seleccionados aleatoriamente. Con respecto a la participación de los adultos mayores en la toma de decisiones el 38% señala que, a veces se los ha convocado, coincidente con esto el 32% respecto a la planeación y desarrollo de planes, programas y proyectos. El 72% manifiesta desconocer sobre los programas y acciones, llevados a efecto por los municipios. El 74% afirma no haber sido invitados a tomar parte del denominado presupuesto participativo. Finalmente, el 76% asegura que no tuvieron algún tipo de participación en las etapas de construcción de políticas sociales.
El sicariato como fenómeno socio jurídico en el Ecuador
Authors:   Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Cuenca Sarango Mario Leonardo , Maldonado Ruiz Luis Mauricio ,   Universidad Internacional del Ecuador
Published: December 2023

El sicariato en Ecuador es un fenómeno socio-jurídico relevante que requiere una atención exhaustiva por parte de la sociedad y las autoridades. En este estudio, se analizaron las características, consecuencias, motivaciones, dinámicas y factores subyacentes del sicariato en el contexto ecuatoriano. Se utilizó una metodología basada en la revisión exhaustiva de información actualizada y pertinente. El sicariato es una forma de asesinato por encargo que genera preocupación debido a sus graves consecuencias para las víctimas, sus familias y la seguridad social en general. Está estrechamente relacionado con el narcotráfico, disputas territoriales y venganzas personales, entre otros factores. Desde el punto de vista jurídico, el sicariato está tipificado como un delito grave en el artículo 143 del Código Orgánico Integral Penal, con penas severas para los responsables. Sin embargo, la corrupción, la impunidad y la falta de recursos en el sistema judicial obstaculizan los esfuerzos para combatirlo de manera efectiva. La desigualdad social, la falta de oportunidades, la debilidad institucional y la presencia del crimen organizado también influyen en su propagación. Para hacer frente al sicariato, es necesario fortalecer los sistemas judiciales y policiales, mejorar la capacitación y agilizar los procesos legales. La prevención debe centrarse en la inclusión social, la educación, la generación de oportunidades, la participación ciudadana y la concientización. En conclusión, el sicariato en Ecuador es un fenómeno socio-jurídico complejo que requiere una respuesta integral basada en medidas legales, prevención y fortalecimiento institucional y social
Aplicación de alimentos funcionales para mejorar la nutrición en base a técnicas de repostería de vanguardia
Authors:   Universidad Técnica del Norte, Cobos Gavilanes Kamila Alejandra , Méndez Paspuel Cinthya Pamela ,   Universidad Técnica del Norte, Galarza Cachiguango Iván Santiago ,   Universidad Técnica del Norte, Falcón Gordillo Santiago Israel ,   Universidad Técnica del Norte
Published: December 2023

Los alimentos funcionales son aquellos que contienen componentes biológicamente activos que aportan gran cantidad de nutrientes al organismo y que permiten su adecuado funcionamiento, proporcionando al ser humano una mejora en su estado de salud y contrarrestando el riesgo de sufrir enfermedades. Las personas cada vez son más conscientes de su alimentación; sin embargo, resulta difícil encontrar oferta de alimentos saludables en la categoría postres. Con este antecedente el objetivo de este trabajo fue diseñar productos de repostería con técnicas de vanguardia y alimentos funcionales. Este trabajo tuvo un enfoque mixto, el enfoque cualitativo permitió la recolección de los datos a través de entrevista semi estructurada. Se formó un focus group conformado por 10 clientes de restaurante, con el fin de determinar las preferencias. En el enfoque cuantitativo se usó la técnica de estadística multivariante, en concreto el análisis conjunto a través del SPSS 25. El procedimiento fue desarrollar 5 postres usando técnicas de vanguardia y alimentos funcionales para conocer las preferencias de los clientes. Los resultados muestran que los cinco postres a través de un análisis sensorial, tienen una calificación alta en textura y baja en olor, siendo el postre más aceptado el nombrado “explosión de mandarina”. Se ha encontrado muchos alimentos funcionales y técnicas de vanguardia que se pueden usar para desarrollar nuevos postres. Además, existen diferentes modelos que permiten innovar la oferta gastronómica; sin embargo, es necesario considerar varios factores al crear nuevos productos y servicios
La Tecnología y su incidencia en la Autoeficacia Académica en universitarios del Ecuador.
Authors:   Universidad Estatal de Milagro, Regatto Bonifaz Jacqueline , Viteri Miranda Víctor ,   Universidad Estatal de Milagro
Published: December 2023

En el ámbito académico, los estudiantes universitarios se enfrentan a un entorno educativo cada vez más digitalizado. Desde este enfoque, tanto la tecnología como la autoeficacia académica contribuyen a los procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje, ya que se desarrollan en los universitarios mediante las metodologías activas, competencias digitales. Los objetivos de esta investigación son identificar la prevalencia, establecer la relación de estos dos constructos, en los contextos áulicos; y, determinar la incidencia de la tecnología en la autoeficacia académica. Para ello se utilizan las Escalas de Actitudes hacia la tecnología y la Escala de Autoeficacia Percibida Específica de Situaciones Académicas. El estudio tiene un enfoque cuantitativo, mediante un diseño no experimental de tipo descriptivo, de corte transversal, comparativo por género y predictivo. La muestra seleccionada fue de 570 estudiantes. Los resultados reflejan que la tecnología incide significativamente en la autoeficacia académica. Además, se logró demostrar que entre ambas variables existe una relación directa y moderada. Asimismo, no se presentan diferencias estadísticamente significativas por género (p> 0,05). Se concluye que tanto la tecnología como la Autoeficacia Académica inciden en el rendimiento académico de los discentes y los conlleva a alcanzar sus metas educativas.
Real time lithium metal calendar aging in common battery electrolytes
Authors: Merrill Laura C. , Long Daniel M. , Rosenberg Samantha G. , Meyerson Melissa L. , Lam Mila Nhu , Harrison Katharine L.
Published: December 2023

Li metal anodes are highly sought after for high energy density applications in both primary commercial batteries and next-generation rechargeable batteries. In this research, Li metal electrodes are aged in coin cells for a year with electrolytes relevant to both types of batteries. The aging response is monitored via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and Li electrodes are characterized post-mortem. It was found that the carbonate-based electrolytes exhibit the most severe aging effects, despite the use of LiBF4-based carbonate electrolytes in Li/CFx Li primary batteries. Highly concentrated LiFSI electrolytes exhibit the most minimal aging effects, with only a small impedance increase with time. This is likely due to the concentrated nature of the electrolyte causing fewer solvent molecules available to react with the electrode surface. LiI-based electrolytes also show improved aging behavior both on their own and as an additive, with a similar impedance response with time as the concentrated LiFSI electrolytes. Since I− is in its most reduced state, it likely prevents further reaction and may help protect the Li electrode surface with a primarily organic solid electrolyte interphase.
Attention network for predicting T-cell receptor–peptide binding can associate attention with interpretable protein structural properties
Authors: Koyama Kyohei , Hashimoto Kosuke , Nagao Chioko , Mizuguchi Kenji
Published: December 2023

Understanding how a T-cell receptor (TCR) recognizes its specific ligand peptide is crucial for gaining an insight into biological functions and disease mechanisms. Despite its importance, experimentally determining TCR–peptide–major histocompatibility complex (TCR–pMHC) interactions is expensive and time-consuming. To address this challenge, computational methods have been proposed, but they are typically evaluated by internal retrospective validation only, and few researchers have incorporated and tested an attention layer from language models into structural information. Therefore, in this study, we developed a machine learning model based on a modified version of Transformer, a source–target attention neural network, to predict the TCR–pMHC interaction solely from the amino acid sequences of the TCR complementarity-determining region (CDR) 3 and the peptide. This model achieved competitive performance on a benchmark dataset of the TCR–pMHC interaction, as well as on a truly new external dataset. Additionally, by analyzing the results of binding predictions, we associated the neural network weights with protein structural properties. By classifying the residues into large- and small-attention groups, we identified statistically significant properties associated with the largely attended residues such as hydrogen bonds within CDR3. The dataset that we created and the ability of our model to provide an interpretable prediction of TCR–peptide binding should increase our knowledge about molecular recognition and pave the way for designing new therapeutics.
Graphene-based nanomaterials for peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Convertino Domenica , Trincavelli Maria Letizia , Giacomelli Chiara , Marchetti Laura , Coletti Camilla
Published: December 2023

Emerging nanotechnologies offer numerous opportunities in the field of regenerative medicine and have been widely explored to design novel scaffolds for the regeneration and stimulation of nerve tissue. In this review, we focus on peripheral nerve regeneration. First, we introduce the biomedical problem and the present status of nerve conduits that can be used to guide, fasten and enhance regeneration. Then, we thoroughly discuss graphene as an emerging candidate in nerve tissue engineering, in light of its chemical, tribological and electrical properties. We introduce the graphene forms commonly used as neural interfaces, briefly review their applications, and discuss their potential toxicity. We then focus on the adoption of graphene in peripheral nervous system applications, a research field that has gained in the last years ever-increasing attention. We discuss the potential integration of graphene in guidance conduits, and critically review graphene interaction not only with peripheral neurons, but also with non-neural cells involved in nerve regeneration; indeed, the latter have recently emerged as central players in modulating the immune and inflammatory response and accelerating the growth of new tissue.
Carotid plaque score and ischemic stroke risk stratification through a combination of B-mode and contrast-enhanced ultrasound in patients with low and intermediate carotid stenosis
Authors: Li Fang , Gu Shi-Yao , Zhang Lu-Ni , Chen Jing , Yao Ming-Hua , Wu Ting-Ting , Ma Ji , Jia Cai-Xia , Wu Rong
Published: December 2023

Objective

The occurrence of ischemic stroke (IS) is closely related to the characteristics of carotid plaque (CP). Due to the effect of stroke risk stratification based on B-mode ultrasound (US) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) that has not been studied in patients with low and intermediate carotid stenosis, we construct and validate a CP score and ischemic stroke risk stratification (ISRS) using a combination of B-mode and CEUS, in order to provide new convenient strategies to stratify these patients to prevent stroke.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study evaluated 705 patients with low and intermediate carotid stenosis who underwent B-mode and CEUS from November 2021 to April 2023. Qualitative B-mode and CEUS features of carotid plaques were analyzed using a univariable and multivariable logistic regression to construct the CP score. Then, we combined the CP score with Essen stroke risk score (ESRS) to develop ISRS.

Results

This study included a total of 705 patients with low and intermediate carotid stenosis, of which 394 were symptomatic patients (with a mean age of 71.03 ± 10.48 years) and 311 were asymptomatic patients (with a mean age of 65.13 ± 10.31 years). Plaque echogenicity, plaque morphology, carotid intima-media thickness in B-mode US and intraplaque neovascularization grading and perfusion pattern in CEUS were significantly associated with IS. The ISRS incorporating these five predictors and ESRS showed good discrimination and calibration in both primary cohort [area under the curve (AUC), 0.91; Hosmer–Lemeshow test, p = 0.903] and validation cohort (AUC, 0.84; Hosmer–Lemeshow test, p = 0.886).

Conclusion

We developed an effective and practical tool to identify and stratify patients with low and intermediate carotid stenosis, based on the CP score and ISRS estimation. Our study may provide new insights into managing patients with no indication of surgery.
Ultrasound characteristics of abdominal vascular compression syndromes
Authors: Liu Yan , Zheng Haining , Wang Xiaoqing , Wang Zi , Zhu Qiang , Wen Chaoyang , Tong Yisha
Published: December 2023

Abdominal vascular compression syndrome (AVCS) is caused by the compression of abdominal blood vessels by adjacent structures or the compression of abdominal organs by neighboring blood vessels. Such compressions can result in a variety of clinical symptoms. They are not commonly seen in ultrasound practices, and their presence may have been underrecognized and underdiagnosed. This article reviews the clinical features, ultrasound characteristics, and diagnostic criteria of four types of AVCS, namely, celiac artery compression syndrome, renal vein compression syndrome, iliac vein compression syndrome, and superior mesenteric artery syndrome to increase awareness of these conditions among ultrasound practitioners. The ultrasound criteria for AVCS are primarily based on studies with small sample sizes, and therefore, it is important to exercise caution if these criteria are used.
Global proteomics insights for a novel small compound targeting the non-integrin Laminin Receptor in a macrophage cell model
Authors: Haffner Abigail , Figueiredo Neto Manoel , Umbaugh C. Samuel , Sobreira Tiago J. P. , Lescun Timothy B. , Sintim Herman O. , Figueiredo Marxa L.
Published: December 2023

Introduction:Monocytes and macrophages are the first barrier of the innate immune system, which interact with agents causing osteoarthritis or other conditions, leading to the release of proinflammatory mediators that exacerbate inflammation.

Methods:The aim of this study was to investigate the proteomic changes in THP-1 monocytes differentiated to macrophages, pre- or -post small compound treatments and in the presence or absence of a proinflammatory stimulus, Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This study aimed to discover and isolate small compounds that mimic the interaction between Pigment derived growth factor (PEDF) and its 37/67 kDa Laminin receptor (LR) with potential anti-inflammatory activity.

Results:Our results suggested that novel compounds targeting the LR-PEDF interface can be useful for modulating anti-inflammatory effects. Several compounds were selected based onin silicodocking at the PEDF/LR interface and examined for their ability to reduce IL-1β expression in a macrophage cell model. Compound C3 showed the highest efficacy in reducing IL-1β expression in the presence of LPS proinflammatory stimulus. Proteomics analysis revealed that C3 treatment altered the global proteomic profile of THP-1 activated macrophages, affecting pathways such as MYC targets, oxidative phosphorylation, and mTORC1 signaling.

Discussion:The analysis also highlighted the involvement of key regulators, including RPSA and MYC, and their interactions with other proteins such as ribosome proteins and cell cycle regulators. Furthermore, the downregulated proteome analysis revealed shared and unique pathways affected by the treatments, including processes related to actin cytoskeleton, translation, and the inflammatory response. Protein-protein interaction networks suggested the potential involvement of transcription factors like MYC and the interconnectedness of signaling pathways in mediating such as the effects of the treatments. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the potential anti-inflammatory activity and underlying mechanisms of compound C3, emphasizing its relevance for further investigation in the context of inflammatory conditions.
Multiparametric ultrasound-based assessment of overt hyperthyroid diffuse thyroid disease
Authors: Stoian Dana , Borlea Andreea , Moisa-Luca Luciana , Paul Corina
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Hyperthyroidismis a prevalent condition affecting global populations, with an overall prevalence of 1.2%. Our research aimed to establish a systematic diagnostic approach using multiparametric ultrasound (MPUS) to diagnose hyperthyroid diffuse thyroid disease (DTD).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study from June 2021 to June 2023 at a specialized endocrinology center in Timisoara, Romania, enrolling subjects presenting with clinical hyperthyroidism. Using the Mach 30 Aixplorer ultrasound equipment, evaluations were performed initially in B-mode US, followed by Color Doppler and Spectral Doppler measurements, and finally, 2D Shear wave elastography (SWE).

Results

From the 218 patients analyzed, the diagnosis of DTD with hyperthyroidism was confirmed through biochemical assessment, subgrouping various pathologies such as subacute thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, painless thyroiditis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, iatrogenic, as well as healthy controls. In the first step, B-mode hypoechogenicity had an AUC of 0.951 for DTD detection. In the second step, the peak systolic velocity differentiated Graves’ disease with a median of 42.4 cm/s and an AUC of 1. Lastly, the third step consisted of SWE evaluation, revealing a mean elasticity index in the SAT subgroup significantly higher from other subgroups (p<0.001) with an AUC of 1.

Conclusion

Our study offers a step-by-step evaluation algorithm for DTD diagnosis, with a very good overall diagnostic performance (AUC of 0.946).
Assessing nitrous oxide emissions and productivity of cropping systems for biogas production using digestate and mineral fertilisation in a coastal marsh site
Authors: Herrmann Antje , Verma Supriya , Techow Anna , Kluß Christof , Dittert Klaus , Quakernack Robert , Pacholski Andreas , Kage Henning , Taube Friedhelm
Published: December 2023

Significant greenhouse gas emissions during substrate cultivation reduces the potential environmental benefits of biogas production. This study investigates the productivity of different cropping systems and their environmental impact in terms of nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions under the environmental conditions of the coastal marsh regions (Northern Germany) with heavy clay soils, in a 2-year field trial (April 2009-March 2011). Treatments included four cropping systems (perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne, PR) ley, continuous maize (Zea mays), a rotation (CR1) of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum), Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum, IR) and maize, and a rotation (CR2) of maize, winter wheat and IR; two sources of N (nitrogen) fertilizers (calcium ammonium nitrate, and biogas residue (BR)), and three levels of N fertilizer applications (control, moderate, high). Nitrous oxide emissions were determined for the unfertilized and highly fertilized cropping systems comprising PR ley, CR1 and CR2. Cumulative annual N2O emissions varied across the treatments, ranging from 0.82 to 3.4 kg N2O-N ha−1 year−1. Under high N fertilizer applications, PR ley incurred higher N2O-N losses compared to other tested cropping systems, and IR cover crop caused relatively high N2O-N emissions in a short vegetation period. The study observed wide range of yield-scaled emissions (0.00–5.60 kg N2O-N (Mg DM)−1) for different crops, emphasizing the variability in N2O emissions linked to cropping systems. The N2O-N emission factors for the three cropping systems were found to be low to moderate for all treatments, ranging from 0.03% to 0.53% compared to IPCC default Tier 1 N2O-N EFs. The lower emissions in the study were associated with prolonged high soil moisture conditions (water filled pore space >70%.), indicated by its negative correlation with N2O-N fluxes. Low dry matter and N yield of PR and of the wheat-IR sequence after BR application compared to other crops indicated a low N use efficiency. The estimation of N2O-N emissions based on N surplus was not promising specifically for the coastal study site where high groundwater level and organic matter in the soils were the predominant drivers for N2O-N emissions.
Multiscale phenology of seasonally dry tropical forests in an aridity gradient
Authors: Ramos Desirée M. , Andrade João M. , Alberton Bruna C. , Moura Magna S. B. , Domingues Tomas F. , Neves Nattália , Lima José R. S. , Souza Rodolfo , Souza Eduardo , Silva José R. , Espírito-Santo Mário M. , Morellato Leonor Patrícia Cerdeira , Cunha John
Published: December 2023

The leaf phenology of seasonally dry tropical forests (SDTFs) is highly seasonal, marked by synchronized flushing of new leaves triggered by the first rains of the wet season. Such phenological transitions may not be accurately detected by remote sensing vegetation indices and derived transition dates (TDs) due to the coarse spatial and temporal resolutions of satellite data. The aim of this study was to compared TDs from PhenoCams and satellite remote sensing (RS) and used the TDs calculated from PhenoCams to select the best thresholds for RS time series and calculate TDs. For this purpose, we assembled cameras in seven sites along an aridity gradient in the Brazilian Caatinga, a region dominated by SDTFs. The leafing patterns were registered during one to three growing seasons from 2017 to 2020. We drew a region of interest (ROI) in the images to calculate the normalized green chromatic coordinate index. We compared the camera data with the NDVI time series (2000–2019) derived from near-infrared (NIR) and red bands from MODIS product data. Using calibrated PhenoCam thresholds reduced the mean absolute error by 5 days for SOS and 34 days for EOS, compared to common thresholds in land surface phenology studies. On average, growing season length (LOS) did not differ significantly among vegetation types, but the driest sites showed the highest interannual variation. This pattern was applied to leaf flushing (SOS) and leaf fall (EOS) as well. We found a positive relationship between the accumulated precipitation and the LOS and between the accumulated precipitation and maximum and minimum temperatures and the vegetation productivity (peak and accumulated NDVI). Our results demonstrated that (A) the fine temporal resolution of phenocamera phenology time series improved the definitions of TDs and thresholds for RS landscape phenology; (b) long-term RS greening responded to the variability in rainfall, adjusting their timing of green-up and green-down, and (C) the amount of rainfall, although not determinant for the length of the growing season, is related to the estimates of vegetation productivity.
Case report: Expanding the understanding of the adult polyglucosan body disease continuum: novel presentations, diagnostic pitfalls, and clinical pearls
Authors: Gayed Matthew M. , Sgobbi Paulo , Pinto Wladimir Bocca Viera De Rezende , Kishnani Priya S. , Koch Rebecca L.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Adult polyglucosan body disease (APBD) has long been regarded as the adult-onset form of glycogen storage disease type IV (GSD IV) and is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in GBE1. Advances in the understanding of the natural history of APBD published in recent years have led to the use of discrete descriptors (“typical” versus “atypical”) based on adherence to traditional symptomatology and homozygosity for the p.Y329S variant. Although these general descriptors are helpful in summarizing common findings and symptoms in APBD, they are inherently limited and may affect disease recognition in diverse populations.

Methods: This case series includes three American patients (cases 1–3) and four Brazilian patients (cases 4–7) diagnosed with APBD. Patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures were employed to evaluate pain, fatigue, and quality of life in cases 1–3.

Results: We describe the clinical course and diagnostic odyssey of seven cases of APBD that challenge the utility and efficacy of discrete descriptors. Cases 1–3 are compound heterozygotes that harbor the previously identified deep intronic variant in GBE1 and presented with “typical” APBD phenotypically, despite lacking two copies of the pathogenic p.Y329S variant. Patient-reported outcome measures in these three cases revealed the moderate levels of pain and fatigue as well as an impacted quality of life. Cases 4–7 have unique genotypic profiles and emphasize the growing recognition of presentations of APBD in diverse populations with broad neurological manifestations.

Conclusion: Collectively, these cases underscore the understanding of APBD as a spectrum disorder existing on the GSD IV phenotypic continuum. We draw attention to the pitfalls of commonly used genetic testing methods when diagnosing APBD and highlight the utility of patient-reported outcome questionnaires in managing this disease.
The costs of transgenerational immune priming for homologous and heterologous infections with different serotypes of dengue virus in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: Cime-Castillo Jorge , Vargas Valeria , Hernández-Tablas Juan Manuel , Quezada-Ruiz Edgar , Díaz Grecia , Lanz-Mendoza Humberto
Published: December 2023

The immune system is a network of molecules, signaling pathways, transcription, and effector modulation that controls, mitigates, or eradicates agents that may affect the integrity of the host. In mosquitoes, the innate immune system is highly efficient at combating foreign organisms but has the capacity to tolerate vector-borne diseases. These implications lead to replication, dissemination, and ultimately the transmission of pathogenic organisms when feeding on a host. In recent years, it has been discovered that the innate immune response of mosquitoes can trigger an enhanced immunity response to the stimulus of a previously encountered pathogen. This phenomenon, called immune priming, is characterized by a molecular response that prevents the replication of viruses, parasites, or bacteria in the body. It has been documented that immune priming can be stimulated through homologous organisms or molecules, although it has also been documented that closely related pathogens can generate an enhanced immune response to a second stimulus with a related organism. However, the cost involved in this immune response has not been characterized through the transmission of the immunological experience from parents to offspring by transgenerational immune priming (TGIP) in mosquitoes. Here, we address the impact on the rates of oviposition, hatching, development, and immune response in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the mothers of which were stimulated with dengue virus serotypes 2 and/or 4, having found a cost of TGIP on the development time of the progeny of mothers with heterologous infections, with respect to mothers with homologous infections. Our results showed a significant effect on the sex ratio, with females being more abundant than males. We found a decrease in transcripts of the siRNA pathway in daughters of mothers who had been exposed to an immune challenge with DV. Our research demonstrates that there are costs and benefits associated with TGIP in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes exposed to DV. Specifically, priming results in a lower viral load in the offspring of mothers who have previously been infected with the virus. Although some results from tests of two dengue virus serotypes show similarities, such as the percentage of pupae emergence, there are differences in the percentage of adult emergence, indicating differences in TGIP costs even within the same virus with different serotypes. This finding has crucial implications in the context of dengue virus transmission in endemic areas where multiple serotypes circulate simultaneously.
Selective ablation of thymic and peripheral Foxp3+ regulatory T cell development
Authors: Yilmazer Acelya , Zevla Dimitra Maria , Malmkvist Rikke , Rodríguez Carlos Alejandro Bello , Undurraga Pablo , Kirgin Emre , Boernert Marie , Voehringer David , Kershaw Olivia , Schlenner Susan , Kretschmer Karsten
Published: December 2023

Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells of thymic (tTreg) and peripheral (pTreg) developmental origin are thought to synergistically act to ensure immune homeostasis, with self-reactive tTreg cells primarily constraining autoimmune responses. Here we exploited a Foxp3-dependent reporter with thymus-specific GFP/Cre activity to selectively ablate either tTreg (ΔtTreg) or pTreg (ΔpTreg) cell development, while sparing the respective sister populations. We found that, in contrast to the tTreg cell behavior in ΔpTreg mice, pTreg cells acquired a highly activated suppressor phenotype and replenished the Treg cell pool of ΔtTreg mice on a non-autoimmune C57BL/6 background. Despite the absence of tTreg cells, pTreg cells prevented early mortality and fatal autoimmunity commonly observed in Foxp3-deficient models of complete Treg cell deficiency, and largely maintained immune tolerance even as the ΔtTreg mice aged. However, only two generations of backcrossing to the autoimmune-prone non-obese diabetic (NOD) background were sufficient to cause severe disease lethality associated with different, partially overlapping patterns of organ-specific autoimmunity. This included a particularly severe form of autoimmune diabetes characterized by an early onset and abrogation of the sex bias usually observed in the NOD mouse model of human type 1 diabetes. Genetic association studies further allowed us to define a small set of autoimmune risk loci sufficient to promote β cell autoimmunity, including genes known to impinge on Treg cell biology. Overall, these studies show an unexpectedly high functional adaptability of pTreg cells, emphasizing their important role as mediators of bystander effects to ensure self-tolerance.
Environmentally friendly concrete material with early strength and fast hardening using coal as an aggregate: a case for supporting empty roadways
Authors: Wang Hanqiu , Shi Yannan , Zhao Jiawei , Wang Yiying , Liu Chengyong , Wu Yuyi
Published: December 2023

In order to facilitate ventilation or transportation, many coal mines usually excavate an empty roadway in the middle of the mining working face. Under the influence of mining pressure, empty roadways are easily damaged, seriously threatening coal mines’ safety. Because the traditional support method of the empty roadway has the problems of low efficiency, high cost, and low strength, this paper researches the coal-based concrete support material with better effect. The grading test of coal aggregate was carried out, and it was found that the percentage of small-size aggregate greatly influenced the reduction of aggregate porosity in the stacked state. To solve the problems of the high cost of strengthening support methods such as high water material support in empty roadways, which could be more conducive to recovery and reduce coal quality. The research on empty roadways supports concrete material with coal as aggregate, making the working face recover coal resources safely and efficiently. The optimum gradation test of the total is to enhance the strength of support and solve the problem of low power and difficult cementation of coal. Based on the hydration analysis of cementitious material, the coal-based concrete, mainly composed of low-cost slag, is determined. The cementitious material with simple composition, rapid setting, and fast hardening was found. It is proved that the mechanical properties and molding effect of coal-based concrete support composed of gypsum, GGBFS, and clinkercement are better than those of commercial cement. The structural model of “surrounding rock-empty roadways-coal pillar-support” is established. The calculation method and check basis of empty roadways support resistance N1 are obtained. The results of industrial application verified that coal-based concrete could effectively protect empty roadways without affecting the productivity of coal mines.
Preparation and enhanced electrorheological properties of elastomers filled with rod-shaped TiO2 particles
Authors: Ti Gang , Fan Yi , Tang Jian , Niu Chenguang , Xiong Xiaoyan
Published: December 2023

The morphology of dispersed particles has been proven to have a significant impact on performance of electrorheological (ER) materials, while there is a lack of relevant research on its impact on the properties of electrorheological elastomers (EREs). In this study, the TiO2 particles with spherical, short rod, and long rod shape were fabricated with sol-gel method, and the EREs were prepared with these three kinds of particles as dispersion phase. Particle characterization results show that the rod-shape TiO2 particles with larger average size exhibit a combination of anatase and brookite phase. The viscoelastic properties of three types of EREs under varying strain amplitude and shear frequency were tested. The results indicate that the long rod-shape TiO2 particles filled EREs shows higher storage modulus G′ and higher relative ER effect within the electric field from 0 to 3 kV/mm. The observations indicate the use of rod-shape TiO2 particles in the form of brookite phase may help enhance the ER properties of elastomers. The investigation contributes to the designing, preparation, and application of anisotropic ERE.
Development and validation of a three-dimensional deep learning-based system for assessing bowel preparation on colonoscopy video
Authors: Feng Lina , Xu Jiaxin , Ji Xuantao , Chen Liping , Xing Shuai , Liu Bo , Han Jian , Zhao Kai , Li Junqi , Xia Suhong , Guan Jialun , Yan Chenyu , Tong Qiaoyun , Long Hui , Zhang Juanli , Chen Ruihong , Tian Dean , Luo Xiaoping , Xiao Fang , Liao Jiazhi
Published: December 2023

Background

The performance of existing image-based training models in evaluating bowel preparation on colonoscopy videos was relatively low, and only a few models used external data to prove their generalization. Therefore, this study attempted to develop a more precise and stable AI system for assessing bowel preparation of colonoscopy video.

Methods

We proposed a system named ViENDO to assess the bowel preparation quality, including two CNNs. First, Information-Net was used to identify and filter out colonoscopy video frames unsuitable for Boston bowel preparation scale (BBPS) scoring. Second, BBPS-Net was trained and tested with 5,566 suitable short video clips through three-dimensional (3D) convolutional neural network (CNN) technology to detect BBPS-based insufficient bowel preparation. Then, ViENDO was applied to complete withdrawal colonoscopy videos from multiple centers to predict BBPS segment scores in clinical settings. We also conducted a human-machine contest to compare its performance with endoscopists.

Results

In video clips, BBPS-Net for determining inadequate bowel preparation generated an area under the curve of up to 0.98 and accuracy of 95.2%. When applied to full-length withdrawal colonoscopy videos, ViENDO assessed bowel cleanliness with an accuracy of 93.8% in the internal test set and 91.7% in the external dataset. The human-machine contest demonstrated that the accuracy of ViENDO was slightly superior compared to most endoscopists, though no statistical significance was found.

Conclusion

The 3D-CNN-based AI model showed good performance in evaluating full-length bowel preparation on colonoscopy video. It has the potential as a substitute for endoscopists to provide BBPS-based assessments during daily clinical practice.
Gut microbiota functional profiling in autism spectrum disorders: bacterial VOCs and related metabolic pathways acting as disease biomarkers and predictors
Authors: Vernocchi Pamela , Marangelo Chiara , Guerrera Silvia , Del Chierico Federica , Guarrasi Valerio , Gardini Simone , Conte Federica , Paci Paola , Ianiro Gianluca , Gasbarrini Antonio , Vicari Stefano , Putignani Lorenza
Published: December 2023

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorder. Major interplays between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the central nervous system (CNS) seem to be driven by gut microbiota (GM). Herein, we provide a GM functional characterization, based on GM metabolomics, mapping of bacterial biochemical pathways, and anamnestic, clinical, and nutritional patient metadata.

Methods

Fecal samples collected from children with ASD and neurotypical children were analyzed by gas-chromatography mass spectrometry coupled with solid phase microextraction (GC–MS/SPME) to determine volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with the metataxonomic approach by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Multivariate and univariate statistical analyses assessed differential VOC profiles and relationships with ASD anamnestic and clinical features for biomarker discovery. Multiple web-based and machine learning (ML) models identified metabolic predictors of disease and network analyses correlated GM ecological and metabolic patterns.

Results

The GM core volatilome for all ASD patients was characterized by a high concentration of 1-pentanol, 1-butanol, phenyl ethyl alcohol; benzeneacetaldehyde, octadecanal, tetradecanal; methyl isobutyl ketone, 2-hexanone, acetone; acetic, propanoic, 3-methyl-butanoic and 2-methyl-propanoic acids; indole and skatole; and o-cymene. Patients were stratified based on age, GI symptoms, and ASD severity symptoms. Disease risk prediction allowed us to associate butanoic acid with subjects older than 5 years, indole with the absence of GI symptoms and low disease severity, propanoic acid with the ASD risk group, and p-cymene with ASD symptoms, all based on the predictive CBCL-EXT scale. The HistGradientBoostingClassifier model classified ASD patients vs. CTRLs by an accuracy of 89%, based on methyl isobutyl ketone, benzeneacetaldehyde, phenyl ethyl alcohol, ethanol, butanoic acid, octadecane, acetic acid, skatole, and tetradecanal features. LogisticRegression models corroborated methyl isobutyl ketone, benzeneacetaldehyde, phenyl ethyl alcohol, skatole, and acetic acid as ASD predictors.

Conclusion

Our results will aid the development of advanced clinical decision support systems (CDSSs), assisted by ML models, for advanced ASD-personalized medicine, based on omics data integrated into electronic health/medical records. Furthermore, new ASD screening strategies based on GM-related predictors could be used to improve ASD risk assessment by uncovering novel ASD onset and risk predictors.
Canonical binding of Chaetomium thermophilum DNA polymerase δ/ζ subunit PolD3 and flap endonuclease Fen1 to PCNA
Authors: Alphey Magnus S. , Wolford Campbell B. , MacNeill Stuart A.
Published: December 2023

The sliding clamp PCNA is a key player in eukaryotic genome replication and stability, acting as a platform onto which components of the DNA replication and repair machinery are assembled. Interactions with PCNA are frequently mediated via a short protein sequence motif known as the PCNA-interacting protein (PIP) motif. Here we describe the binding mode of a PIP motif peptide derived from C-terminus of the PolD3 protein from the thermophilic ascomycete fungus C. thermophilum, a subunit of both DNA polymerase δ (Pol δ) and the translesion DNA synthesis polymerase Pol ζ, characterised by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and protein X-ray crystallography. In sharp contrast to the previously determined structure of a Chaetomium thermophilum PolD4 peptide bound to PCNA, binding of the PolD3 peptide is strictly canonical, with the peptide adopting the anticipated 310 helix structure, conserved Gln441 inserting into the so-called Q-pocket on PCNA, and Ile444 and Phe448 forming a two-fork plug that inserts into the hydrophobic surface pocket on PCNA. The binding affinity for the canonical PolD3 PIP-PCNA interaction determined by ITC is broadly similar to that previously determined for the non-canonical PolD4 PIP-PCNA interaction. In addition, we report the structure of a PIP peptide derived from the C. thermophilum Fen1 nuclease bound to PCNA. Like PolD3, Fen1 PIP peptide binding to PCNA is achieved by strictly canonical means. Taken together, these results add to an increasing body of information on how different proteins bind to PCNA, both within and across species.