bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effects of Qinglongyi-Buguzhi herb pair against H 2 O 2 ‑induced oxidative injury in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells via PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Lele , Chen Shuguang , Sun Peng , Liu Xinyue , Zhan Zhaoshuang , Wang Jiafeng
Published: August 2023

The herbal pair of Qinglongyi (Q, the exocarp of Juglans regia L.)-Buguzhi (B, the fruit of Psoralea corylifolia L.) (QB) is commonly used for treating vitiligo in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, the relevant mechanism of QB in the treatment of vitiligo is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the protective role and mechanism of QB on B16F10 mouse melanoma cells after H2O2-induced oxidative stress injury. Firstly, 17 experimental groups were designed as follows: normal control group, H2O2 group, Q, B, and QB (mass ratio 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1 ) low, middle and high concentration groups. MTT was used to detect cell survival rate and flow cytometry was used to determine the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and melanin levels were evaluated using corresponding commercial kits. Based on all the results, the drug group with the best effect was selected for follow-up mechanism study. Then, six experimental groups were designed as follows: normal control group, H2O2 group, LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor) group, QB་LY294002 group, positive control VE group. Flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis and ROS content. The nuclear translocation of Nrf2 was analyzed using immunofluorescence. RT‑qPCR was used to determine the changes in the expression of Akt, Nrf2 and HO-1 genes. Western blot was used to detect the expression of Akt, phospho-Akt (p-Akt), total nuclear factor erythroid 2‑related factor 2 (Nrf2), nuclear Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) proteins. From our findings, Q, B and QB (1:1, 1:2, 2:1) groups all increased cell survival rate, decreased ROS level and cell apoptosis, upregulated SOD and CAT activity, and increased melanin content of B16F10 cells with H2O2 injury. It was worth noting that the QB (1:2) 0.08 mg/mL group had the most prominent effect among all drug groups, so we chosed this group to study the mechanism of action. From the results, when compared with H2O2, LY294002, QB་LY294002 groups, QB pretreatment of cells in QB group significantly decreased ROS level and apoptosis rate of B16F10 cells with H2O2 injury. Moreover, QB up-regulated Akt, Nrf2, HO-1 mRNA expression level and increased p-Akt, HO-1, nuclear Nrf2 proteins expression level, and promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. Notably, LY294002 could largely block the effect of QB. This study demonstrated that QB reversed H2O2-induced oxidative stress injury of melanocytes may be related to the activation of PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway.
LDL and IL-6 induce TGF-β1 release and mast cell migration toward intimal macrophages
Authors: Yu Heng , Josi Radhika R. , Khanna Ankur , Khismatullin Damir B.
Published: August 2023

Objective and design:
This study tests the hypothesis that mast cells migration to the artery’s intimal layer occurs due to release of TGF-β1 from macrophages exposed to LDL and IL-6.
Material or subjects:
Human monocytic cells (THP-1), human mast cells (LUVA), and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC).
Treatment:
THP-1 cells were differentiated into M0, M1, and M2 macrophages, which were then treated with LDL, oxidized LDL (oxLDL), IL-6, or a combination of LDL and IL-6. LUVA cells and HUVEC were exposed to conditioned media from untreated and treated macrophages. LUVA cells were also exposed to TGF-β1.
Methods
The concentration of TNF-α and TGF-β1 released from macrophages was measured by ELISA. The migration of LUVA cells in a microfluidic channel was assessed for 12 h. THP-1 cell adhesion to HUVEC was investigated under static conditions.
Results
Inflammatory (M1) macrophages exposed to LDL + IL-6 or oxLDL released TGF-β1 at the level close to anti-inflammatory (M2) macrophages. These M2-like cells kept their inflammatory properties, based on adhesion data. The LUVA cells migrated to TGF-β1 or the conditioned medium from M2-like macrophages.
Conclusions
LDL in combination with IL-6 repolarized macrophages from M1 to M2-like cells, which attracted mast cells via TGF-β1.
Quantitative exploration of the innovative trend method for evapotranspiration and its sensitivity to climatic parameters: The case study in Southeast Vietnam
Authors: Ha Phan Thi , Phuong Dang Nguyen Dong , Anh Hoang Ha , Tu Le Hoang , Vuong Nguyen Dinh , Loi Nguyen Kim
Published: August 2023

Understanding the characteristics and correlations between evapotranspiration and climate variables plays a crucial role in determining the probable impact of critical factors on crop water requirements, water resource management, and future planning. This work aims to evaluate the temporal trends of evapotranspiration and its sensitivity to climate variables from 1980 to 2019 in Southeast, Vietnam. The improved Innovative Şen Trend Analysis method was used to identify trends, and the Sobol technique, based on variance-based analysis, allowed for a rapid calculation of sensitivity indices. By estimating the changes in evapotranspiration, the study confirmed different quantitative trends, including a significant increase of 72–135 mm in annual and 12–84 mm in seasonal evapotranspiration. Results also conducted a sensitivity analysis of the historical meteorological quantiles obtained for three climate stations to analyze the sensitivity indices. The sensitivity analysis showed that evapotranspiration is more sensitive to solar radiation, relative humidity, and minimum temperature. The study presents pragmatic approaches for considering the possible interactions between evapotranspiration and climate variables, which may serve as a baseline for sustainable water management in areas with similar climate conditions and adaptation to climate change.
Dyads of GGC and GCC form hotspot colonies that coincide with the evolution of human and other great apes.
Authors: Arabfard M , Tajeddin N , Alizadeh S , Salesi M , Bayat H , Khorshid Hamid Reza Khorram , Khamse Safoura , Delbari Ahmad , ohadi Mina
Published: August 2023

Background: GGC and GCC short tandem repeats (STRs) are of various evolutionary, biological, and pathological implications. However, the fundamental two-repeats (dyads) of these STRs are widely overlooked.
Results: On a genome-wide scale, we mapped (GGC)2 and (GCC)2 dyads in human, and discovered monumental colonies (distance between each repeat <500 bp) of extraordinary density, and in some instances periodicity. The largest (GCC)2 and (GGC)2 colonies were intergenic, homogeneous, and human-specific, consisting of 219 (GCC)2 on chromosome 2 (probability<1.545E-219) and 70 (GGC)2 on chromosome 9 (probability=1.809E-148). We also found directional incremented trend in density and complexity of numerous colonies in human versus other species, such as a colony of 99 (GCC)2 on chromosome 20, that specifically expanded in great apes, and directionally incremented to maximum complexity in human (probability 1.545E-220). Numerous other colonies of evolutionary relevance in human were detected in other largely overlooked regions of the genome, such as chromosome Y and pseudogenes. Several of the genes containing or nearest to those colonies were divergently expressed in human.
Conclusion: In conclusion, (GCC)2 and (GGC)2 form unprecedented genomic colonies that coincide with the evolution of human and other great apes. The extent of the genomic rearrangements leading to those colonies support overlooked recombination hotspots shared across great apes. The identified colonies deserve to be studied in mechanistic, evolutionary, and functional platforms.
Motives for Using Social Networking Sites: A Uses & Gratifications Perspective Amongst People with Eating Disorder Symptoms
Authors: Dingemans Alexandra , Veldhuis Jolanda
Published: August 2023

Studies investigating motives for social networking sites (SNS) use amongst people with eating disorder (ED) symptoms are scarce. The uses and gratifications theory states that people actively select media content to gratify their individual needs and this may help to explain why individuals with eating disorder symptoms choose to expose themselves to specific media content and how they choose to respond. Some evidence exists that readiness to change may be a factor related to SNS use patterns in this population. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential relationship between readiness to change ED cognitions/behaviors and SNS use motives in individuals with current or past ED symptoms, employing a uses and gratifications theory perspective. Participants were recruited from ED recovery websites; 103 individuals (16-55 years old) provided complete data. As hypothesized, ED symptom severity was inversely associated with readiness to change and time spend on (specific) SNS was not associated with ED symptom severity. The results of hierarchical regression analyses further suggested that if individuals felt less capable of overcoming their dysfunctional cognitions/behaviors about their body/eating (i.e., were less ready to change), they were more likely to be motivated to use SNSs for the purpose of impressing others and reputation management. The clinical implication is that high amounts of SNS use may not necessarily be harmful for people with EDs or recovering from EDs, whereas using SNSs for the purposes of impression management could potentially be related to being less ready to recover.
Laboratory efficacy of essential oils against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum and Pectobacterium atrosepticum causing soft rot of potato tubers
Authors: Jílková Barbora , Víchová Jana , Holková Ludmila , Pluháčková Helena , Michutová Markéta , Kmoch Martin
Published: August 2023

The efficacy of essential oils (EOs) from Carum carvi, Cinnamomum cassia, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Cuminum cyminum, Eugenia caryophyllus, Foeniculum vulgare, Melaleuca alternifolia, Mentha × piperita, Origanum vulgare, Rosmarinus officinalis and Thymus vulgaris was tested against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Pcc) and Pectobacterium atrosepticum (Pa), which cause soft rot of potato tubers. Under in vitro conditions, the highest efficacy was found for cinnamons EOs against both bacteria. The higher sensitivity of both bacteria was manifested in clove (Pcc and Pa), mint (Pcc), oregano (Pa) and thyme (Pa) EOs. Rosemary EO was the least effective. The results from the in vivo test were not consistent with those of the in vitro tests. The most significant antibacterial effect was achieved with mint EO. The bacterial strains Pcc and Pa were more sensitive to treatment with essential oils of caraway (Pcc and Pa), cinnamon (Pcc), oregano (Pa) and thyme (Pcc and Pa). In particular, based on results of in vivo test, mint EO and possibly caraway, oregano and thyme EOs can be recommend for pickling potato tubers against pectinolytic bacteria of the genus Pectobacterium.
Durable tumor regression and restoration of neurologic function after treatment with anti-PD-1 in patients with functionally unresectable cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with perineural spread into the cavernous sinus
Authors: Carey Andrew R. , Warrier Govind , Hoang Jenny K. , Schollenberger Megan D. , Lipson Evan J. , Mahoney Nichols R.
Published: August 2023

Purpose
To describe tumor response and cranial nerve function outcomes after administration of anti-PD-1 to patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) with perineural spread to cranial nerves (CN) extending into the cavernous sinus.
Methods
Electronic patient records from a single institution were queried for patients with CSCC of the head and neck causing diplopia (ICD-10 H53.2) who were treated with anti-PD-1. Data extracted included demographics, duration of anti-PD-1 therapy, immune-mediated adverse reactions, tumor response per adapted RECIST v1.1, and changes in CN function and symptoms (e.g., pain). All patients were prescribed cemiplimab 350 mg IV q3 weeks.
Results
Four patients met inclusion criteria. They had varying degrees of pain and sensory deficits in branches of the trigeminal nerve (CN V). One, 2, 3 and 1 patients had baseline involvement of CN III, IV, VI and VII, respectively. MRI confirmed perineural cavernous sinus involvement in all patients. Duration of anti-PD-1 therapy ranged 15–60 weeks. All patients experienced an objective anti-tumor response to anti-PD-1; partial response n = 2, complete response n = 2. At a median follow-up of 22 months, responses were ongoing in all patients. All patients demonstrated improvement in ocular motility deficits and pain with resolution of symptoms in 3 and 1 patients, respectively.
Conclusion
Administration of anti-PD-1 to patients with CSCC with perineural spread into the cavernous sinus can generate durable anti-tumor regressions and restore CN function, while sparing the morbidity associated with surgical resection and/or radiotherapy. Our findings add to emerging literature supporting this treatment approach for this patient population.
Effect of high flow nasal oxygen on inspiratory effort of patients with acute hypoxic respiratory failure and do not intubate order
Authors: Tonelli Roberto , Fantini Riccardo , Bruzzi Giulia , Tabbì Luca , Cortegiani Andrea , Crimi Claudia , Pisani Lara , Moretti Antonio , Guidotti Federico , Rizzato Simone , Puggioni Daniele , Tacconi Matteo , Bellesia Gianluca , Ragnoli Beatrice , Castaniere Ivana , Marchioni Alessandro , Clini Enrico
Published: August 2023

Background High flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) is recommended as a first line respiratory support during acute hypoxic respiratory failure (AHRF) and represents a proportionate treatment option for patients with do not intubate (DNI) orders. The aim of the study is to assess the effect of HFNO on inspiratory effort as assessed by esophageal manometry in a population of DNI patients suffering from AHRF.Methods Patients with AHRF and DNI orders admitted to Respiratory intermediate Care Unit between January 1st, 2018 and May 31st, 2023 to receive HFNO and subjected to esophageal manometry were enrolled. Esophageal pressure swing (ΔPes), clinical variables before and after 2 hours of HFNO and clinical outcome (including HFNO failure) were collected and compared as appropriate. The change in physiological and clinical parameters according to the intensity of baseline breathing effort was assessed and the correlation between baseline ΔPes values and the relative change in breathing effort and clinical variables after 2 hours of HFNO was explored.Results Eighty-two consecutive patients were enrolled according to sample size calculation. Two hours after HFNO start, patients presented significant improvement in ΔPes (12 VS 16 cmH2O, p < 0.0001), respiratory rate (RR) (22 VS 28 bpm, p < 0.0001), PaO2/FiO2 (133 VS 126 mmHg, p < 0.0001), Heart rate, Acidosis, Consciousness, Oxygenation and respiratory rate (HACOR) score, (4 VS 6, p < 0.0001), Respiratory rate Oxygenation (ROX) index (8.5 VS 6.1, p < 0.0001) and BORG (1 VS 4, p < 000.1). Patients with baseline ΔPes below 20 cmH2O where those who improved all the explored variables, while patients with baseline ΔPes above 30 cmH2O did not report significant changes in physiological or clinical features. A significant correlation was found between baseline ΔPes values and after 2 hours of HFNO (R2 = 0.9, p < 0.0001). ΔPes change 2 hours after HFNO significantly correlated with change in BORG (p < 0.0001), ROX index (p < 0.0001), HACOR score (p < 0.001) and RR (p < 0.001).Conclusions In DNI patients with AHRF, HFNO was effective in reducing breathing effort and improving respiratory and clinical variables only for those patients with not excessive inspiratory effort.
Sexual behaviors and the association between sexual knowledge, attitude and behaviors among Chinese university students: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Ou Xiaxian , Zhang Yaoyun , Liu Shunkai , Jiang Yuling , Baibuti Hasitier , Chen Ziyan , Liu Jufen
Published: August 2023

Backgrounds
Chinese youth have become more sexually active over the years with rapid modernization and improving gender equity. This study aimed to investigate sexual behaviors among Chinese university students and to identify factors influencing sexual behaviors.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from April to August 2021 among 1006 students aged 15 to 25 years from universities in 30 provinces in mainland China. Binary logistic regression was used to explore the factors for ever having sexual behaviors. The mediation model and the moderated mediation model were constructed to display the association between sexual knowledge, attitude and behavior.
Results
A total of 1006 respondents were included. A total of 332 (33.0%) students reported ever having sexual behaviors, with a higher incidence in males (35.5%) than in females (27.0%). Family monthly income above 20,000 RMB (OR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.42–5.01), ever having searched for sexual knowledge (OR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.16–2.51), searching for pornographic information at medium frequency (OR = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.62–4.42) and high frequency (OR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.43–4.85), higher AIDS knowledge (OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04–1.28) and more open sexual attitude (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.16–1.57) promoted the incidence of sexual behavior. The moderated mediation analysis revealed that sexual attitude partially mediated the association between sexual knowledge and behaviors (p < 0.01), and the effect of sexual attitude on sexual behaviors was moderated by monthly family income (p < 0.01).
Conclusions
One-third of university students had sexual behaviors in this study. Sexual attitudes were found to mediate the relationship between sexual knowledge and behavior, with family monthly income identified as a crucial moderating factor. It is essential to strengthen sex education to provide students with access to accurate sexual knowledge and promote healthy sexual values.
Terrestrial Environmental Sensitivity Index Mapping (TESIM) of the Coastal Areas of the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Wekpe Vremudia Onyeayana
Published: August 2023

It can be argued that despite years of research, the true impacts of oil spill pollution on the environment and human sources of livelihoods are yet to be completely understood. Tools such as environmental sensitivity index (ESI) mapping can provide useful information that can significantly mitigate or help eliminate the known impacts of crude oil pollution, by proactively identifying environmentally sensitive areas. This study adapted the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information systems (GIS) based multiple criteria analysis (MCA) approach in the objective determination of sensitive sections of the NDR coastal areas, by combining several competing and or related evaluation criteria. The AHP was used to determine and assign relative weights to the data layers through a pairwise comparison evaluation matrix of mutually exclusive evaluation criteria using the Delphi technique, while the MCA was used to aggregate the evaluation criteria into a single map. The results of the MCA analysis show that over 57% of the study area is sensitive to oil spill pollution in one form or the other. 68% of the identified sensitive areas are classified as extremely environmentally sensitive with 11,752.14km2, while 7.1% are classified as less sensitive. This relative classification of environmental sensitivity in the study area is termed the Niger Delta Relative Environmental Sensitivity Index (NDRESI). The implication of these results is that more has to be done if the very sensitive environment of the NDR is to be conserved by tougher environmental legislations, environmental monitoring and environmental education.
Paraxial propagation of Hermite cosine-hyperbolic-Gaussian beams in a chiral medium
Authors: Yaalou M. , Hricha Z. , Belafhal A.
Published: August 2023

The propagation properties of Hermite-cosine-hyperbolic-Gaussian beam (HChGB) in a chiral medium are investigated. Analytical formula for a HChGB beam propagating through a chiral medium is derived theoretically based on the Huygens-Fresnel Integral, and the propagation properties are illustrated numerically and discussed. Results show that the evolution properties of the HChGB in a chiral medium are closely related to the beam order, the chirality factor and the decentered parameter b.
Google Earth Engine for analysis of land cover change and streamflow trends in the Ribeirão da Caveira River Basin, Brazil from 1988-2019
Authors: Macêdo Theilon Henrique Jesus , Tagliaferre Cristiano , Silva Bismarc Lopes , Lemos Odair Lacerda , Castro Ingrid Thalia Prado
Published: August 2023

Cloud computing platforms for processing satellite imagery will boost our understanding of relationships between land use/cover, precipitation, and streamflow, thereby providing crucial information for water management policies. In this article, Google Earth Engine (GEE) was used to process and assess the impact of land use and land cover change (LULC), forest biomass, and precipitation on streamflow of the Ribeirão da Caveira River Basin (RCRB), a basin located in the Brazilian semi-arid region, from 1988–2019. Land use land cover maps comprised six classes: forest, natural non-forest formation, agriculture, pasture, water bodies, and bare soil. In addition, the following spectral indices were calculated: normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), modified soil-adjusted vegetation index (MSAVI), and bare soil index (BSI). NDVI was used to estimate forest biomass. The data were fitted to multiple linear regression models using streamflow trends as a target variable and principal component analysis was used to further interpret the data. The analyses revealed agriculture and forest classes had the largest extension within RCRB. Changes in forest biomass had no apparent effect on streamflow. Furthermore, the results showed both precipitation and bare soil areas were the most important factors affecting streamflow, and best-fit models showed moderate predictive power.
Viral rebound occurrence immediately after drug discontinuation involving neither drug resistance nor latent reservoir
Authors: Hayashi Rena , Hara Akane , Iwasa Yoh
Published: August 2023

Some viruses exhibit "rebound" when the administration of antiviral drugs is discontinued. Viral rebound caused by resistance mutations or latent reservoirs has been studied mathematically. In this study, we investigated the viral rebound due to other causes. Since immunity is weaker during antiviral treatment than without the treatment, drug discontinuation may increase the viral load. We analyzed the dynamics of the number of virus-infected cells, cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and memory cells and identified the conditions under which the viral load increased upon drug discontinuation. If drug is administered for a long time, a viral rebound occurs when the ratio of viral growth rate in the absence to that in the presence of the antiviral drug exceeds the "rebound threshold." We analyzed how the rebound threshold depended on patient's conditions and type of treatment. Mathematical and numerical analyses revealed that rebound after discontinuation was more likely to occur when the drug was effective in reducing viral proliferation, drug discontinuation was delayed, and the processes activating immune responses directly were stronger than those that occurred indirectly via immune memory formation. We discussed additional reasons for drugs to cause viral rebound more likely.
Expanding the genotype-phenotype spectrum in SCN8A-related disorders
Authors: Hebbar Malavika , Al-Taweel Nawaf , Gill Inderpal , Boelman Cyrus , Dean Richard A , Goodchild Samuel J , Mezeyova Janette , Shuart Noah Gregory , Johnson J. P. , Lee James , Michoulas Aspasia , Huh Linda L , Armstrong Linlea , Connolly Mary B , Demos Michelle K.
Published: August 2023

Background
SCN8A-related disorders are a group of variable conditions caused by pathogenic variations in SCN8A. Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) terms them as developmental and epileptic encephalopathy 13, benign familial infantile seizures 5 or cognitive impairment with or without cerebellar ataxia.
Methods
In this study, we describe clinical and genetic results on eight individuals from six families with SCN8A pathogenic variants identified via exome sequencing.
Results
Clinical findings ranged from normal development with well-controlled epilepsy to significant developmental delay with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Three novel and three reported variants were observed in SCN8A. Electrophysiological analysis in transfected cells revealed a loss-of-function variant in Patient 4.
Conclusions
This work expands the clinical and genotypic spectrum of SCN8A-related disorders and provides electrophysiological results on a novel loss-of-function SCN8A variant.
Machine learning couched treatment algorithms tailored to individualized profile of patients with primary anterior chamber angle closure predisposed to the glaucomatous optic neuropathy
Authors: Kurysheva Natalia I , Rodionova Oxana Y. , Pomerantsev Alexey L. , Sharova Galina A. , Golubnitschaja Olga
Published: August 2023

Background: Primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) is still one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness, with a trend towards an increase in the number of patients to 32.04 million by 2040, an increase of 58.4% compared with 2013. Health-risk assessment based on multi-level diagnostics and machine learning couched treatment algorithms tailored to individualized profile of patients with primary anterior chamber angle closure are considered essential tools to reverse the trend and protect vulnerable subpopulations against health-to-disease progression.
Aim: To develop a methodology for personalized choice of an effective method of primary angle closure (PAC) treatment based on comparing the prognosis of intraocular pressure (IOP) changes due to laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) or lens extraction (LE).
Methods: The multi-parametric data analysis was used to develop models predicting individual outcome of the primary angle closure (PAC) treatment with LPI and LE. For doing this, we suggested a positive dynamics in the intraocular pressure (IOP) after treatment, as the objective measure of a successful treatment. Thirty seven anatomical parameters have been considered by applying artificial intelligence to the prospective study on 30 (LE)+30 (LPI) patients with PAC.
Results and data interpretation in the framework of 3P medicine: Based on the anatomical and topographic features of the patients with PAC, mathematical models have been developed that provide a personalized choice of LE or LPI in the treatment. The multi-level diagnostics is the key-tool in the overall advanced approach. To this end, for the future application of AI in the area it is strongly recommended to consider
1. clinically relevant phenotyping applicable to advanced population screening
2. systemic effects causing suboptimal health conditions considered in order to cost-effectively protect affected individuals against health-to-disease transition
3. clinically relevant health risk assessment utilizing health/disease-specific molecular patterns detectable in body fluids with high predictive power such as a comprehensive tear fluid analysis.
Fully endoscopic microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia: our technical note and early outcomes
Authors: Guan Hongpeng , li Shiting , Wang Xuhui
Published: August 2023

Purpose:
Microscopic microvascular decompression (MVD) has been considered as a curative and reliable method for primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN) treatment for decades. However, the omission of offending vessels due to inadequate visualization often results in failure or recurrence after operation. Endoscope can provide bright illumination and panoramic view which enhance the visualization of posterior fossa.
The study presented here is to evaluate the advantages of fully endoscopic microvascular decompression for TN therapy and describe our operative technical note.
Methods:
From January 2020 to January 2022, 95 primary TN patients underwent fully endoscopic MVD operation performed by the same surgeon and assistant in our department. The assistant held the endoscope and the surgeon operated. Brain stem auditory evoked potentials (BEMPs) was routinely monitored. For very patient, the neurovascular conflict was identified and obtained complete decompression. Barrow neurological institute (BNI) pain intensity score was used to evaluate the facial pain degree. The intra-operative findings, postoperative outcomes, and complications were analyzed.
Results:
Immediately after operations, 93 patients (97.9%) achieved complete pain relief (BNI score of I). 2 patients (2.1%) still had some pain, but it can be adequately controlled with medicine (BNI score of III). During 12–36 months follow-up, recurrence was found in 3 patients (3.2%), including one patient (1.1%) with BNI score of II and 2 patients (2.1%) with BNI score of III. Complications were found in 5 patients (5.3%), including facial numbness in 3 patients (3.2%), vertigo in one patient (1.1%), and headache in one patient (1.1%). There was no death, stroke, hearing impairment, facial paralysis, or other complications.
Conclusions:
Fully endoscopic MVD is a safe and effective method to treat TN. It provides bright illumination and panoramic view for surgeons to observe neurovascular conflicts in deep place of the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) that is very helpful in avoiding omission of offending vessels and injury of adjacent neurovascular structures.
Acute and continuous exposure of airborne fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ): Diverse outer blood–retinal barrier damages and disease susceptibilities
Authors: Gu Yuzhou , Sheng Feiyin , Gao Mengqin , Zhang Li , Hao Shengjie , Chen Shuying , Chen Rongrong , Xu Yili , Wu Di , Han Yu , Chen Lu , Liu Ye , Lu Bing , Zhao Wei , Lou Xiaoming , Chen Zhijian , Li Peng , Wang Xiaofeng , Yao Ke , Fu Qiuli
Published: August 2023

Background
The association between air pollution and retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been demonstrated, but the pathogenic correlation is unknown. Damage to the outer blood–retinal barrier (oBRB), which consists of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choriocapillaris, is crucial in the development of fundus diseases.
Objectives
To describe the effects of airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on the oBRB and disease susceptibilities.
Methods
A PM2.5-exposed mice model was established through the administration of eye drops containing PM2.5. Optical coherence tomography angiography, transmission electron microscope, RPE immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting were applied to study the oBRB changes. A co-culture model of ARPE-19 cells with stretching vascular endothelial cells was established to identify the role of choroidal vasodilatation in PM2.5-associated RPE damage.
Results
Acute exposure to PM2.5 resulted in choroidal vasodilatation, RPE tight junctions impairment, and ultimately an increased risk of retinal edema in mice. These manifestations are very similar to the pachychoroid disease represented by central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). After continuous PM2.5 exposure, the damage to the RPE was gradually repaired, but AMD-related early retinal degenerative changes appeared under continuous choroidal inflammation.
Conclusion
This study reveals oBRB pathological changes under different exposure durations, providing a valuable reference for the prevention of PM2.5-related fundus diseases and public health policy formulation.
Revealing the abnormal meiosis and the variation of the functional female gametes of aneuploid lily (Lilium) using genomic in situ hybridization (GISH)
Authors: Xiao Kongzhong , Sun Yanni , Zhou Shujun
Published: August 2023

Aneuploid lilies (Lilium) could be obtained from the LAA/LAAA × AA/AAAA hybridization; however, the characteristics of their meiosis and fertility has not been reported. In this study, an aneuploid lily, J1614, was extensively investigated for its microsporogenesis, fertility and functional eggs using conventional and modern cytogenetic methods. The results indicated that J1614 was an aneuploid Longiflorum-Asiatic (LA) lily (2n = 48 = 7L + 39A + 2L/A) while ‘Pearl Jason’ was an autotetraploid Asiatic lily (2n = 48A); L-chromosomes of J1614 usually formed univalent while A-chromosomes associated not only predominantly trivalents, but also tetravalents, bivalents, and even univalent at metaphase I as well; clearly, both univalents and other associated chromosomes were separated and moved to opposite poles at anaphase I; besides, lagging chromosomes and micronuclei were observed during microsporogenesis. Hybridization showed that J1614, regardless of its male sterility, had better partial female fertility when tetraploid a lily was used as male than when a diploid as male. The nine seedlings of J1614 × AAAA were all aneuploid with variable total chromosomes ranging from 46 to 53, meaning that the functional eggs produced by J1614 contained variable chromosomes ranging from 22 to 29. Based on the present results, we concluded that once good lines are selected from aneuploid lilies, they may not only become cultivars through vegetative propagation, but also become parents to breed new aneuploids and realize introgression breeding. In addition, the mechanism of abnormal meiosis of aneuploid lilies was hypothesized.
Biodegradation of municipal plastic wastes collected from solid waste landfills of Jammu, India
Authors: singh Brajeshwar , Sharma Ankita , . Vironika
Published: August 2023

Plastics are non-biodegradable, strong, durable, moisture resistant, light weight polymers of carbon along with hydrogen, nitrogen, sulphur, and other organic and inorganic elements and are manufactured from fossil fuel which is a non-renewable source. Low density polyethylene is the most commonly occurring non-biodegradable waste material which constitutes approximately 60% of the total plastic production. In the present study, an attempt has been made to isolate, screen, and characterize the most efficient polyethylene degrading bacteria by using partially degraded polyethylene samples with adhered soil collected from two municipal waste dumping grounds of Jammu region. A total of 62 bacterial isolates were obtained from different waste disposal sites were screened on synthetic Medium. Low density polyethylene powder was used as the sole carbon source in synthetic medium. The biodegradation activity of the isolates was investigated based on the percent weight loss and percent loss in tensile strength of the polyethylene. Maximum percent weight loss (%WL; 22.66) was recorded with MB57 after 2 months of shaking at room temperature. Maximum percent loss in tensile strength (% loss in TS; 74.35) was documented MB57. Further, the level of degradation was confirmed by scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis. In SEM analysis, scions/ crakes were found on the surface of the degraded polyethylene.
Fish diversity, assemblage pattern along with the environmental variables in tidal fresh water stretch in the Hooghly estuary of Gangetic delta, West Bengal, India
Authors: Majhi Bhuban Mohan , Dey Chiranjeeb , Nath Ashim Kumar
Published: August 2023

The greatest estuary created by the Gangetic delta in India is the Hooghly estuary. Despite their importance to the estuarine biodiversity, the tidal freshwater areas of this estuary have gained little interest from ecologists. Present study aims to explore the fish diversity with its assemblage pattern and their relationship with physico-chemical parameters from June 2020 to May 2021. There have been identified 118 species in total, from 14 orders and 47 families, with seven (7) being near threatened, fifteen (15) vulnerable, four (4) endangered, and eight (8) not evaluated. Perciformes (29.66%), Cypriniformes (22.88%), and Siluriformes (21.18%) accounted for 73.72% of the overall species count. Station-1 has significantly higher species richness, rarefied richness, and abundance. Station-3 and station-2 followed station-1 respectively. The composition of fish species changed significantly among the stations, as shown by cluster analysis, nMDS (nonmetric multidimensional scaling), ANOSIM (analysis of similarities), and SIMPER (similarity percentage analysis) (p < 0.05). The canonical correspondence analysis revealed that alkalinity, conductivity, phosphate, and total carbon dioxide of the water were the key environmental parameters. In addition to defining a sustainable management method for the fish resources in the Hooghly estuary, this effort will act as a baseline study for further investigation.
Automated Fruit-ripeness Categorization for Enhanced Shelf Life: A Case Study on Pakistani Chaunsa Mango Using Fusion of Deep Features
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Tahir Syed Fahad , Fahad Labiba Gillani
Published: August 2023

Enhancing the longevity of fruits not only mitigates food waste but also amplifies market sales revenue. The attainment of an extended shelf life can be realized by implementing an efficient fruit-ripeness categorization methodology during the packaging phase. The current classification approaches, comprising three categories of "good," "average," and "poor," primarily evaluate fruit quality rather than maturity, which is a crucial factor specifically for mangoes. In contrast, our proposed approach defines four ripeness categories: "Under-ripe," "Over-ripe," "Ripe (Good)," and "Damaged." As a case study, we focus on the Pakistani Chaunsa Mango variety, acquiring 2000 images directly from the farms prior to packaging. Subsequently, we enlist the expertise of professionals to classify these images into the four predefined categories. Following this, we introduce an automated mango categorization method utilizing the Support Vector Machine (SVM) machine learning model. To train the SVM model, we employ a fusion technique that integrates deep features extracted from three convolutional neural network (CNN) models, namely VGG13, VGG16, and VGG19. Our proposed model accepts RGB images as input and generates the corresponding ripeness category as output. To validate the effectiveness of our approach, we conduct comprehensive experiments. The results exhibit an impressive accuracy of 87.78% on the Chaunsa Mango dataset, surpassing the current state-of-the-art methods. Moreover, we plan to make our dataset publicly available, enabling the scientific community to conduct further experimentation and research in this domain.
CTNNB1-mutation-related immune gene prognostic model (CMRIPM) for hepatocellular carcinoma: Development and validation
Authors: Li Rui-Zhe , Ding Zi-Niu , Meng Guang-Xiao , Liu Hui , Xue Jun-Shuai , Yan Lun-Jie , Dong Zhao-Ru , Hong Jian-Guo , Chen Zhi-Qiang , Tian Bao-Wen , Han Cheng-Long , Wang Dong-Xu , Li Tao
Published: August 2023

Purpose: HCC is the sixth most common type of cancer and has the third highest fatality rates out of all cancers worldwide. The CTNNB1 mutations play a vital role in determining the immune microenvironment of HCC. Currently, there exists a wide range of therapies available for HCC patients, however, these treatments offer restricted improvements in survival rates. Therefore, it is especially important for clinicians to have a tool that predicts a patient's prognosis and guides treatment.
Methods: Our study focused on examining the correlation between CTNNB1 mutations and the tumor microenvironment in HCC. Additionally, we performed WGCNA to analyze the impact of CTNNB1 mutations on the immune microenvironment and CTNNB1 mutations status. In the LIHC cohort(n=350), a prognostic model called CMRIPM was developed to stratify HCC patients into low- and high-risk group and predict prognosis based on immune genes related to CTNNB1 mutations. The prognostic validity of the CMRIPM was confirmed in a meta-GEO cohort(n=400). Furthermore, in order to enhance the practical application of the CMRIPM, a nomogram was created and its dependability was validated through various techniques.
Results: A CMRIPM was performed based on the CTNNB1 mutation status involved in the immune microenvironment of HCC. This analysis can serve as a standalone indicator for the OS of HCC patients and indicate the overall strength of the immune response in the HCC microenvironment. Significantly, the CMRIPM provides an immunologic perspective to clarify the factors influencing the clinical result of individuals with HCC and has the potential to categorize HCC patients into distinct groups with different immunotherapy and chemotherapy suitability.
Conclusion: There is a notable association between the CTNNB1 mutation status and the immune microenvironment in HCC. Additionally, the CMRIPM has the potential to act as a reliable prognostic biomarker for patients with HCC, offering valuable guidance to clinicians in their decision-making process for HCC patients.
Higher stress load in the lateral compartment after over-corrected UKA compared with HTO: a 3d-finite-element analysis
Authors: Wang Wenqiang , Zhang Penfei , Li Hui , Pan Chunang , Yang Xucheng
Published: August 2023

Background
The purpose of this study was to utilize a 3D finite-element(FE)model to analyze why there are differences in stress distribution in the knee joint between unicompartmental knee replacement༈UKA༉and high tibial osteotomy༈HTO༉ under the same force line.
Methods
The stress of the lateral meniscus, tibial plateau and inferior tibial plateau bone in healthy, OA, standard UKA, overcorrected UKA and HTO were assessed using FE models. In terms of stress load, standing is simulated by applying vertical static load, and then the stress distribution of knee joints in each group is compared.
Results
The results showed that the overcorrected UKA had significantly higher stresses in the lateral meniscus, lateral tibial plateau and below the plateau compared to the HTO. Also, the stress distribution in the knee joint after HTO is closer to that of a healthy knee due to the bridging effect of the lateral tibial Tomofix plate.
Conclusion
In general, when the lower limb force lines in UKA are corrected to the same level as in HTO, the stress distribution in the knee joint in HTO is close to physiological due to the bridging effect of the Tomofix plate. In contrast, the stresses on the lateral compartment of the UKA are significantly higher and more prone to lateral compartment OA.
Longitudinal association between possible sarcopenic obesity and depression among the middle-aged and the elderly: The evidence from CHARLS
Authors: Zhang Yingxiao , Yu Jing , Wu Yongxin , Zhao Yuxing , Zhang Li , Liu Xia , Chen Deqing , Wu Yaoxuan , Li Yuanfen , Luo Kang , Zhou Min , Cheng Pan , Xu Lingjie , Sun Yue , Xiao Qian
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Currently, the association of depression with sarcopenia and obesity status is unclear. We investigated the role of three types of possible sarcopenic obesity [possible sarcopenic central obesity (PSCO), possible sarcopenic general obesity (PSGO), possible sarcopenic visceral obesity (PSVO)] as risk factors for depression among the middle-aged and the elderly.
Methods
We adopted a longitudinal design utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. We evaluated depression using the CES-D-10. Basic characteristics analysis and age-stratified logistic regression models were employed.
Results
6 006 participants without depression and 1 853 with depression were included. Among middle-aged participants, associations were observed in possible sarcopenia with obesity (PS/O) group (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.02–3.12, p = 0.043) and possible sarcopenia without obesity (PS) group (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.16–2.13, p = 0.003) after full-adjustment regarding PSGO. The associations within PSVO mirrored those observed in PSGO. For PSCO, only PS group demonstrated an association (OR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.12–2.45, p = 0.011) after full-adjustment. Among the elderly, the PS group (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.03–1.57, p = 0.027) exhibited an increased risk of depression after full-adjustment regarding PSGO. No association was detected after full-adjustment in PSVO and PSCO. The results obtained through complete case and multiple imputation method were comparable, although multiple imputation revealed more significant associations between PS group and depression within PSCO and PSVO in the elderly.
Conclusion
For the middle-aged, PSGO and PSVO were significantly associated with depression. Moreover, PSGO and PSVO were superior to PSCO as risk factors for depression. For the elderly, possible sarcopenia was significantly associated with depression.
Causal Relationship Between Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Osteoporosis: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Wu Bing , Xu Danfeng
Published: August 2023

Background
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Osteoporosis are two prevalent medical conditions. Previous studies have suggested a possible correlation between SLE and osteoporosis, though the underpinning causal relationship remains largely unknown. The current study aimed to elucidate the causal association between SLE and osteoporosis by employing a Mendelian randomization (MR) approach.
Methods
We performed two-sample MR analysis using the inverse variance-weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR-Egger methods on publicly available summary statistics datasets using a SLE genome-wide association study (GWAS) as an exposure and osteoporosis GWASs in people with East Asia ancestry as outcomes. The pleiotropy and heterogeneity were examined using a variety of techniques, including the MR-Egger intercept, the MR-PRESSO approach, and the Cochran’s Q test.
Results
We selected 74 single-nucleotide polymorphisms from a SLE GWAS as instrumental variables for osteoporosis. The IVW (p < 0.05) and weighted median (p < 0.05) method results support a causal association between SLE and osteoporosis. MR-Egger intercept (p = 0.3474) and MR-PRESSO global test (p = 0.3285) did not suggest evidence of horizontal or directional pleiotropy. Cochran’s Q test (p = 0.3027) showed that there was no heterogeneity between IVs.
Conclusion
This MR analysis provides insight into the potential causal relationship between SLE and osteoporosis, emphasizing the potential contribution of SLE-associated genetic variants to osteoporosis risk.
A study of recurrent severe thrombosis caused by the duplication of the Factor IX gene
Authors: Wei Xuqian , Zhang Houliang , Chen Weibin , Zhang Jian , Dai Jing
Published: August 2023

Here we studied a patient who experienced three different episodes of severe thromboses, some of which were life-threatening (pulmonary artery thrombosis, portal and mesenteric vein thrombosis, and arterial thrombosis of the lower leg). Blood levels of lupus anticoagulants, anticardiolipin antibodies, Protein C: C, Protein S: C, AT: C, FVIII: C, FIX: C, and homocysteine were also assessed. We screened 35 genes linked to thrombosis using a mix of first- and second-generation sequencing. Mutations were subsequently confirmed and localized using an Affymetrix CytoScan 750 microchip to identify gene imbalances. We discovered a duplication of the FIX gene on the X chromosome of the patient through genetic testing. The mutation was a 756 kb duplication that spanned the FIX gene in region q27.1 of the X chromosome and causes a gene imbalance. The precise coordinates of the duplication are arrGRCh37Xq27.1(138548177 139304097) *2. The repeat includes the full FIX gene, thus, this suggested the patient had two functional copies of FIX. An identical repetition was found in the patient's mother's genetic test, indicating that this mutation was inherited. Both the patient and his mother had high, but variable, plasma FIX:C levels that promote coagulation. The patient's frequent, severe thromboses may be brought on by the duplication of a big portion of the FIX gene. The first worldwide report of this mutation.