bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SF3B4 downregulation restrains lung adenocarcinoma tumorigenesis via 5′ alternative splicing of KAT2A
Authors: Qu Ailin , Han Bo , Hua Mengmeng , Wang Chune , Li Tao
Published: January 2024

Aberrant expression of splicing factors, including SF3B4, plays a vital role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the impact of SF3B4 in the progression of LUAD has not been studied well. Here, we demonstrated the effects of SF3B4 in LUAD via apoptosis, proliferation, migration assays, etc. Gene manipulations confirmed the role of SF3B4 via KAT2A. SF3B4 was found to promote LUAD growth. Further studies found that, upon SF3B4 knockdown in LUAD cells, an alternative splice site occurred at the 5′-UTR of KAT2A, which led to the downregulation of KAT2A at both RNA and protein levels. Furthermore, the decrease in KAT2A expression partially reversed the effect of SF3B4 in promoting tumorigenesis. The axis SF3B4/ KAT2A was identified as a significant player in LUAD progression, shedding light on the therapeutic development in LUAD.
Recent trends and economic significance of modified/functionalized biochars for remediation of environmental pollutants
Authors: Murtaza Ghulam , Ahmed Zeeshan , Valipour Mohammad , Ali Iftikhar , Usman Muhammad , Iqbal Rashid , Zulfiqar Usman , Rizwan Muhammad , Mahmood Salman , Ullah Abd , Arslan Muhammad , Rehman Muhammad Habib ur , Ditta Allah , Tariq Akash
Published: January 2024

The pollution of soil and aquatic systems by inorganic and organic chemicals has become a global concern. Economical, eco-friendly, and sustainable solutions are direly required to alleviate the deleterious effects of these chemicals to ensure human well-being and environmental sustainability. In recent decades, biochar has emerged as an efficient material encompassing huge potential to decontaminate a wide range of pollutants from soil and aquatic systems. However, the application of raw biochars for pollutant remediation is confronting a major challenge of not getting the desired decontamination results due to its specific properties. Thus, multiple functionalizing/modification techniques have been introduced to alter the physicochemical and molecular attributes of biochars to increase their efficacy in environmental remediation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in developing multiple functionalized/modified biochars via biological and other physiochemical techniques. Related mechanisms and further applications of multiple modified biochar in soil and water systems remediation have been discussed and summarized. Furthermore, existing research gaps and challenges are discussed, as well as further study needs are suggested. This work epitomizes the scientific prospects for a complete understanding of employing modified biochar as an efficient candidate for the decontamination of polluted soil and water systems for regenerative development.
Acanthopanax senticosus ameliorates steatohepatitis through HNF4 alpha pathway activation in mice
Authors: Kawano Yutaka , Tanaka Maki , Satoh Yasushi , Sugino Shigekazu , Suzuki Jun , Fujishima Masaki , Okumura Eri , Takekoshi Hideo , Uehara Osamu , Sugita Shintaro , Abiko Yoshihiro , Tomonari Tetsu , Tanaka Hironori , Takeda Hidekatsu , Takayama Tetsuji
Published: January 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a common liver disease worldwide, and is associated with dysregulation of lipid metabolism, leading to inflammation and fibrosis. Acanthopanax senticosus Harms (ASH) is widely used in traditional medicine as an adaptogen food. We examined the effect of ASH on steatohepatitis using a high-fat diet mouse model. Mice were fed a choline-deficient, l-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet with ASH extract (ASHE). After 6 weeks, liver RNA transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) was performed, followed by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Our findings revealed that mice fed a high-fat diet with 5% ASHE exhibited significantly reduced liver steatosis. These mice also demonstrated alleviated inflammation and reduced fibrosis in the liver. IPA of RNA-Seq indicated that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4 alpha), a transcription factor, was the activated upstream regulator (P-value 0.00155, z score = 2.413) in the liver of ASHE-fed mice. Adenosine triphosphate binding cassette transporter 8 and carboxylesterase 2, downstream targets of HNF4 alpha pathway, were upregulated. Finally, ASHE-treated HepG2 cells exposed to palmitate exhibited significantly decreased lipid droplet contents. Our study provides that ASHE can activate HNF4 alpha pathway and promote fat secretion from hepatocytes, thereby serving as a prophylactic treatment for steatohepatitis in mice.
Histogram-based features track Alzheimer's progression in brain MRI
Authors: Pasnoori Nikaash , Flores-Garcia Thania , Barkana Buket D.
Published: January 2024

Alzheimer's disease is a form of general dementia marked by amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuron degeneration. The disease has no cure, and early detection is critical in improving patient outcomes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is important in measuring neurodegeneration during the disease. Computer-aided image processing tools have been used to aid medical professionals in ascertaining a diagnosis of Alzheimer's in its early stages. As characteristics of non and very-mild dementia stages overlap, tracking the progression is challenging. Our work developed an adaptive multi-thresholding algorithm based on the morphology of the smoothed histogram to define features identifying neurodegeneration and track its progression as non, very mild, mild, and moderate. Gray and white matter volume, statistical moments, multi-thresholds, shrinkage, gray-to-white matter ratio, and three distance and angle values are mathematically derived. Decision tree, discriminant analysis, Naïve Bayes, SVM, KNN, ensemble, and neural network classifiers are designed to evaluate the proposed methodology with the performance metrics accuracy, recall, specificity, precision, F1 score, Matthew’s correlation coefficient, and Kappa values. Experimental results showed that the proposed features successfully label the neurodegeneration stages.
Effect of monopolar diathermy power settings on postoperative pain, wound healing, and tissue damage after tonsillectomy: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Yun Ju Hyun , Jang Jeon Yeob , Shin Yoo Seob , Kim Hyun Jun , Kim Chul-Ho , Park Do-Yang
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to assess the impact of varying monopolar diathermy power settings on postoperative pain, hemorrhage, and wound healing following tonsillectomy. A single-center, prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical study was conducted. During bilateral tonsillectomy procedures, one tonsil received low-power settings (15 W, cutting/blend) while the other tonsil received high-power settings (35 W, cutting/blend). Postoperative pain scores (0–10) and wound healing scores (0–3) were evaluated immediately after surgery and at 1, 2, and 4 weeks postoperatively using the visual analog scale. Additionally, histological analysis was performed on electrically resected tonsil tissues to assess tissue damage in the tonsil bed. The allocation of high and low power settings to each side was randomized. Results showed that 1 week after the surgery, the high-power group experienced significantly higher pain scores (mean ± standard deviation: 4.84 ± 2.21) compared to the low-power group (3.56 ± 2.24, p = 0.049). Moreover, the high-power side exhibited slower wound healing during the initial 1–2 weeks postoperatively, as indicated by lower wound scores at 2 weeks (high-power: 1.96 ± 0.64; low-power: 2.43 ± 0.59, p = 0.008). Furthermore, histological analysis revealed significantly deeper tissue degradation on the high-power side compared to the low-power side (p < 0.001), with mean depths of 565.2 ± 291.0 µm and 156.0 ± 36.8 µm, respectively. In conclusion, these findings suggest that when employing monopolar diathermy in tonsillectomy, lower power settings can lead to improved outcomes in terms of postoperative pain, wound healing, and tissue damage.

Trial registration: CRIS identifier: KCT0005670 (cris.nih.go.kr, registration date: 11/12/2020).
Distinct patterns of proteostasis network gene expression are associated with different prognoses in melanoma patients
Authors: Wellman Rachel , Jacobson Daniel , Secrier Maria , Labbadia John
Published: January 2024

The proteostasis network (PN) is a collection of protein folding and degradation pathways that spans cellular compartments and acts to preserve the integrity of the proteome. The differential expression of PN genes is a hallmark of many cancers, and the inhibition of protein quality control factors is an effective way to slow cancer cell growth. However, little is known about how the expression of PN genes differs between patients and how this impacts survival outcomes. To address this, we applied unbiased hierarchical clustering to gene expression data obtained from primary and metastatic cutaneous melanoma (CM) samples and found that two distinct groups of individuals emerge across each sample type. These patient groups are distinguished by the differential expression of genes encoding ATP-dependent and ATP-independent chaperones, and proteasomal subunits. Differences in PN gene expression were associated with increased levels of the transcription factors, MEF2A, SP4, ZFX, CREB1 and ATF2, as well as markedly different survival outcomes. However, surprisingly, similar PN alterations in primary and metastatic samples were associated with discordant survival outcomes in patients. Our findings reveal that the expression of PN genes demarcates CM patients and highlights several new proteostasis sub-networks that could be targeted for more effective suppression of CM within specific individuals.
Using inertial measurement units to estimate spine joint kinematics and kinetics during walking and running
Authors: Sibson Benjamin E. , Banks Jacob J. , Yawar Ali , Yegian Andrew K. , Anderson Dennis E. , Lieberman Daniel E.
Published: January 2024

Optical motion capture (OMC) is considered the best available method for measuring spine kinematics, yet inertial measurement units (IMU) have the potential to collect data outside the laboratory. When combined with musculoskeletal modeling, IMU technology may be used to estimate spinal loads in real-world settings. To date, IMUs have not been validated for estimates of spinal movement and loading during both walking and running. Using OpenSim Thoracolumbar Spine and Ribcage models, we compare IMU and OMC estimates of lumbosacral (L5/S1) and thoracolumbar (T12/L1) joint angles, moments, and reaction forces during gait across six speeds for five participants. For comparisons, time series are ensemble averaged over strides. Comparisons between IMU and OMC ensemble averages have low normalized root mean squared errors (< 0.3 for 81% of comparisons) and high, positive cross-correlations (> 0.5 for 91% of comparisons), suggesting signals are similar in magnitude and trend. As expected, joint moments and reaction forces are higher during running than walking for IMU and OMC. Relative to OMC, IMU overestimates joint moments and underestimates joint reaction forces by 20.9% and 15.7%, respectively. The results suggest using a combination of IMU technology and musculoskeletal modeling is a valid means for estimating spinal movement and loading.
3D integral imaging of acoustically trapped objects
Authors: Mohsenvand Kooshan , Carnicer Artur , Marmiroli Benedetta , Moradi Ali-Reza
Published: January 2024

3D imaging provides crucial details about the objects and scenes that may not be obtained via 2D imaging methods. However, there are several applications in which the object to be 3D-imaged requires to be immobilized. The integrated digital holographic microscopy (DHM) and optical trapping (OT) system is a useful solution for such a task, but both DHM and OT are mostly suitable for microscopic specimens. Here, for the first time to the best of our knowledge and as an analogy to the DHM-OT system, we introduce integral imaging (InIm) and acoustic trapping (AT) integrated system for 3D imaging of immobilized mesoscopic and macroscopic objects. Post-processing of InIm data enables reconstructing the scene at any arbitrary plane, therefore, it re-focuses any particular depth of the object, which is a curtail task, especially when the object is trapped by AT. We demonstrate the capability of our system by simultaneous trapping and 3D imaging of single and multiple irregularly shaped objects with mm sizes.
Artificial intelligence enhanced ophthalmological screening in children: insights from a cohort study in Lubelskie Voivodeship
Authors: Piotr Regulski , Robert Rejdak , Marek Niezgódka , Michał Iwański
Published: January 2024

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of visual impairments, such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, among school-age children (7–9 years) in Lubelskie Voivodeship (Republic of Poland) and apply artificial intelligence (AI) in the detection of severe ocular diseases. A total of 1049 participants (1.7% of the total child population in the region) were examined through a combination of standardized visual acuity tests, autorefraction, and assessment of fundus images by a convolutional neural network (CNN) model. The results from this artificial intelligence (AI) model were juxtaposed with assessments conducted by two experienced ophthalmologists to gauge the model's accuracy. The results demonstrated myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism prevalences of 3.7%, 16.9%, and 7.8%, respectively, with myopia showing a significant age-related increase and hyperopia decreasing with age. The AI model performance was evaluated using the Dice coefficient, reaching 93.3%, indicating that the CNN model was highly accurate. The study underscores the utility of AI in the early detection and diagnosis of severe ocular diseases, providing a foundation for future research to improve paediatric ophthalmic screening and treatment outcomes.
Inhibition of DNMT3B expression in activated hepatic stellate cells overcomes chemoresistance in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Song Yeonhwa , Kim Namjeong , Heo Jinyeong , Shum David , Heo Taemoo , Seo Haeng Ran
Published: January 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex disease associated with a plethora of environmental and genetic/hereditary causative risk factors, more so than other oncological indications. Additionally, patients with HCC exhibit fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver-related disease. This complicated etiology can affect the disease course and likely contributes to its poor prognosis. In this study, we aimed to improve HCC therapy by evaluating combination treatment using anti-cancer and anti-fibrosis drugs via identification of novel anti-fibrosis drugs. We performed high-throughput screening of 10,000 compounds to identify hepatic fibrosis inhibitors through morphometry analysis of multicellular hepatic spheroid (MCHS) models and identified CHIR-99021 as a candidate anti-fibrotic drug. Treatment with CHIR-99021 induced loss of cell–cell interactions and suppression of extracellular matrix-related protein expression via reprogramming of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation in MCHSs. In particular, CHIR-99021 regulated DNMT3B expression only in activated HSCs. Moreover, CHIR-99021 markedly improved the efficacy of sorafenib in HCC- multicellular tumor spheroids in vitro and through induction of apoptosis by decreasing DNMT3B expression in vivo. In summary, these findings suggest that targeting HSC reprogramming by attenuation of DNMT3B expression in the tumor environment might represent a promising therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis and HCC.
Exploring the costs of phenotypic plasticity for evolvable digital organisms
Authors: Miras Karine
Published: January 2024

Phenotypic plasticity is usually defined as a property of individual genotypes to produce different phenotypes when exposed to different environmental conditions. While the benefits of plasticity for adaptation are well established, the costs associated with plasticity remain somewhat obscure. Understanding both why and how these costs arise could help us explain and predict the behavior of living creatures as well as allow the design of more adaptable robotic systems. One of the challenges of conducting such investigations concerns the difficulty of isolating the effects of different types of costs and the lack of control over environmental conditions. The present study addresses these challenges by using virtual worlds (software) to investigate the environmentally regulated phenotypic plasticity of digital organisms. The experimental setup guarantees that potential genetic costs of plasticity are isolated from other plasticity-related costs. Multiple populations of organisms endowed with and without phenotypic plasticity in either the body or the brain are evolved in simulation, and organisms must cope with different environmental conditions. The traits and fitness of the emergent organisms are compared, demonstrating cases in which plasticity is beneficial and cases in which it is neutral. The hypothesis put forward here is that the potential benefits of plasticity might be undermined by the genetic costs related to plasticity itself. The results suggest that this hypothesis is true, while further research is needed to guarantee that the observed effects unequivocally derive from genetic costs and not from some other (unforeseen) mechanism related to plasticity.
Using deep learning and molecular dynamics simulations to unravel the regulation mechanism of peptides as noncompetitive inhibitor of xanthine oxidase
Authors: He Yi , Liu Kaifeng , Cao Fuyan , Song Renxiu , Liu Jianxuan , Zhang Yinghua , Li Wannan , Han Weiwei
Published: January 2024

Xanthine oxidase (XO) is a crucial enzyme in the development of hyperuricemia and gout. This study focuses on LWM and ALPM, two food-derived inhibitors of XO. We used molecular docking to obtain three systems and then conducted 200 ns molecular dynamics simulations for the Apo, LWM, and ALPM systems. The results reveal a stronger binding affinity of the LWM peptide to XO, potentially due to increased hydrogen bond formation. Notable changes were observed in the XO tunnel upon inhibitor binding, particularly with LWM, which showed a thinner, longer, and more twisted configuration compared to ALPM. The study highlights the importance of residue F914 in the allosteric pathway. Methodologically, we utilized the perturbed response scan (PRS) based on Python, enhancing tools for MD analysis. These findings deepen our understanding of food-derived anti-XO inhibitors and could inform the development of food-based therapeutics for reducing uric acid levels with minimal side effects.
Biomechanical response of lower limb joints to lateral wedge insoles
Authors: Du Weijin , Guo Yuan , Wang Chenyan , Cui Weiling , Chen Weiyi , Li Xiaona
Published: January 2024

Lateral wedge insole (LWI) is a frequently recommended treatment option for early and midterm stages of medial knee osteoarthritis. However, studies of its effects on the lower limb joints are incomplete and imperfect. The main purpose of this study was to quantitatively analyze the response of intervention of LWI on lower-limb joint kinematics, ground reaction forces (GRFs), and centre of pressure (COP). Gait analysis of 16 healthy subjects was conducted. Three-dimensional motion data and force plate measurements were collected in the control (barefoot) and experimental conditions (wearing a pair of assigned shoes with 0, 7, and 10 mm LWIs). Results showed that the peak knee flexion angle was increased by 3.43°, 3.09°, and 3.27° with 0, 7, and 10 mm LWIs, respectively (p < 0.01). The ankle peak dorsiflexion angle was significantly decreased by 3.79°, 2.19°, and 1.66° with 0, 7, and 10 mm LWIs, respectively (p = 0.02). The internal rotation angle was increased by 2.78°, 3.76°, and 4.58° with 0, 7, and 10 mm LWIs, respectively (p < 0.01). The forefoot with LWIs showed highly significantly smaller inversion, eversion, and adduction angles (all p < 0.01). The 1st peak of the vertical GRF (p = 0.016) also increased significantly by a maximum of 0.06 body weight (BW) with LWIs. These results indicated that biomechanical changes and limitations of lateral wedges insole should be analyzed in more detail, possibly leading to new guidelines for the design and application.
Factors associated with late initiation of antiretroviral therapy in Iran’s HIV/AIDS surveillance data
Authors: sharafi Mehdi , Mirahmadizadeh Alireza , Hassanzadeh Jafar , Seif Mozhgan , Heiran Alireza
Published: January 2024

Early initiation of Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) in HIV patients is essential for effectively suppressing the viral load and prognosis. This study utilized National HIV/AIDS Surveillance Data in Iran to identify factors associated factors with the duration to initiate ART. This hybrid cross-sectional historical cohort study was conducted on Iran’s National HIV/AIDS Surveillance Data from 2001 to 2019. Sociodemographic characteristics, route of transmission, HIV diagnosis date, and ART initiation date were collected. Multivariable linear and quantile regression models were employed to analyze the duration to initiate ART by considering predictor variables. This study included 17,062 patients (mean age 34.14 ± 10.77 years, 69.49% males). Multivariate quantile regression coefficients varied across different distributions of the dependent variable (i.e., duration to initiate ART) for several independent variables. Generally, male gender, injecting drug use (IDU), and having an HIV-positive spouse were significantly associated with an increased duration to initiate ART (p < 0.05). However, a significant decrease was observed in older patients, those with a university level education, men who had sex with men (MSM), and patients diagnosed after 2016 (p < 0.05). Despite improvements in the duration to initiate ART after implementing the WHO’s 2016 program in Iran, various sociodemographic groups were still vulnerable to delayed ART initiation in the region. Therefore, programs including early testing, early ART initiation, active care, educational and cultural interventions, and appropriate incentives are required for these groups.
Effect of hormone-induced plasma membrane phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate depletion on receptor endocytosis suggests the importance of local regulation in phosphoinositide signaling
Authors: Tóth Dániel J. , Tóth József T. , Damouni Amir , Hunyady László , Várnai Péter
Published: January 2024

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) has been shown to be critical for the endocytosis of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). We have previously demonstrated that depletion of PIP2 by chemically induced plasma membrane (PM) recruitment of a 5-phosphatase domain prevents the internalization of the β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR) from the PM to early endosomes. In this study, we tested the effect of hormone-induced PM PIP2 depletion on β2AR internalization using type-1 angiotensin receptor (AT1R) or M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3R). We followed the endocytic route of β2ARs in HEK 293T cells using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer between the receptor and endosome marker Rab5. To compare the effect of lipid depletion by different means, we created and tested an AT1R fusion protein that is capable of both recruitment-based and hormone-induced depletion methods. The rate of PM PIP2 depletion was measured using a biosensor based on the PH domain of phospholipase Cδ1. As expected, β2AR internalization was inhibited when PIP2 depletion was evoked by recruiting 5-phosphatase to PM-anchored AT1R. A similar inhibition occurred when wild-type AT1R was activated by adding angiotensin II. However, stimulation of the desensitization/internalization-impaired mutant AT1R (TSTS/4A) caused very little inhibition of β2AR internalization, despite the higher rate of measurable PIP2 depletion. Interestingly, inhibition of PIP2 resynthesis with the selective PI4KA inhibitor GSK-A1 had little effect on the change in PH-domain-measured PM PIP2 levels but did significantly decrease β2AR internalization upon either AT1R or M3R activation, indicating the importance of a locally synthetized phosphoinositide pool in the regulation of this process.
Deep learning for transesophageal echocardiography view classification
Authors: Steffner Kirsten R. , Christensen Matthew , Gill George , Bowdish Michael , Rhee Justin , Kumaresan Abirami , He Bryan , Zou James , Ouyang David
Published: January 2024

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) imaging is a vital tool used in the evaluation of complex cardiac pathology and the management of cardiac surgery patients. A key limitation to the application of deep learning strategies to intraoperative and intraprocedural TEE data is the complexity and unstructured nature of these images. In the present study, we developed a deep learning-based, multi-category TEE view classification model that can be used to add structure to intraoperative and intraprocedural TEE imaging data. More specifically, we trained a convolutional neural network (CNN) to predict standardized TEE views using labeled intraoperative and intraprocedural TEE videos from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (CSMC). We externally validated our model on intraoperative TEE videos from Stanford University Medical Center (SUMC). Accuracy of our model was high across all labeled views. The highest performance was achieved for the Trans-Gastric Left Ventricular Short Axis View (area under the receiver operating curve [AUC] = 0.971 at CSMC, 0.957 at SUMC), the Mid-Esophageal Long Axis View (AUC = 0.954 at CSMC, 0.905 at SUMC), the Mid-Esophageal Aortic Valve Short Axis View (AUC = 0.946 at CSMC, 0.898 at SUMC), and the Mid-Esophageal 4-Chamber View (AUC = 0.939 at CSMC, 0.902 at SUMC). Ultimately, we demonstrate that our deep learning model can accurately classify standardized TEE views, which will facilitate further downstream deep learning analyses for intraoperative and intraprocedural TEE imaging.
Hexose phosphorylation for a non-enzymatic glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathway on early Earth
Authors: Hirakawa Yuta , Kakegawa Takeshi , Furukawa Yoshihiro
Published: January 2024

Glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathways play essential roles in cellular processes and are assumed to be among the most ancient metabolic pathways. Non-enzymatic metabolism-like reactions might have occurred on the prebiotic Earth and been inherited by the biological reactions. Previous research has identified a part of the non-enzymatic glycolysis and the non-enzymatic pentose phosphate pathway from glucose 6-phosphate and 6-phosphogluconate, which are intermediates of these reactions. However, how these phosphorylated molecules were formed on the prebiotic Earth remains unclear. Herein, we demonstrate the synthesis of glucose and gluconate from simple aldehydes in alkaline solutions and the formation of glucose 6-phosphate and 6-phosphogluconate with borate using thermal evaporation. These results imply that the initial stages of glycolysis-like and pentose phosphate pathway-like reactions were achieved in borate-rich evaporative environments on prebiotic Earth, suggesting that non-enzymatic metabolism provided biomolecules and their precursors on prebiotic Earth.
wideband high-gain low-profile series-fed antenna integrated with optimized metamaterials for 5G millimeter wave applications
Authors: Esmail Bashar A. F. , Koziel Slawomir , Pietrenko-Dabrowska Anna , Isleifson Dustin
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a series-fed four-dipole antenna with a broad bandwidth, high gain, and compact size for 5G millimeter wave (mm-wave) applications. The single dipole antenna provides a maximum gain of 6.2 dBi within its operational bandwidth, which ranges from 25.2 to 32.8 GHz. The proposed approach to enhance both gain and bandwidth involves a series-fed antenna design. It comprises four dipoles with varying lengths, and a truncated ground plane. These dipoles are connected in series on both sides, running in parallel through a microstrip line. The proposed design significantly enhances the bandwidth, which extends from 26.5 to 40 GHz. This frequency range effectively covers the 5G bands of 28 and 38 GHz. The expedited trust-region (TR) gradient-based search algorithm is utilized to optimize the dimensions of the antenna components, resulting in a maximum gain of 11.2 dBi at 38 GHz. To further enhance the gain, modified H-shaped metamaterial (MTM)-based unit cells are integrated into the antenna substrate. The TR algorithm is employed once more to optimize the MTM dimensions, yielding a maximum gain of 15.1 dBi at 38 GHz. The developed system is experimentally validated, showing excellent agreement between the simulated and measured data.
Clay-supported bio-based Lewis acid ionic liquid as a potent catalyst for the dehydration of fructose to 5-hydroxymthylfurfural
Authors: Yaghoubi Soheila , Sadjadi Samahe , Zhong Xuemin , Yuan Peng , Heravi Majid M.
Published: January 2024

Caffeine and halloysite nanoclay mineral that are bio-based compounds were utilized to synthesize a novel Lewis acid heterogeneous catalyst. To this aim, halloysite was functionalized with 2,4,6-trichloro-1,3,5-triazine and reacted with caffeine, which was then converted to ionic liquid via a reaction with ZnCl2. The catalyst was applied for promoting the dehydration of fructose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. To investigate the effects of the reaction variables, response surface methodology was used. The product was achieved in 98.5% in 100 min using a catalyst loading of 30 wt% at 100 °C. Moreover, the catalyst was recyclable up to six runs with slight zinc leaching. Comparison of the catalytic activity of the catalyst with that of halloysite and a control catalyst with one caffeine-based Lewis acid ionic liquid confirmed the superior activity of the former and the important role of 2,4,6-trichloro-1,3,5-triazine for increasing the number of the grafted caffeine and thus the acidic sites of the catalyst. A plausible reaction mechanism was proposed, and the activity of the catalyst for other carbohydrates was also studied. According to the results, this catalyst catalyzed the reaction of other substrates to furnish 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in low to moderate yields. According to the kinetic studies, the activation energy was estimated to be 22.85 kJ/mol.
Increased risk of hearing loss associated with macrolide use: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shim Sung Ryul , Lee YungJin , In Seung Min , Lee Ki‐Il , Kim Ikhee , Jeong Hyoyeon , Shin Jieun , Kim Jong-Yeup
Published: January 2024

The increased risk of hearing loss with macrolides remains controversial. We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze data on the clinical risk of hearing loss, tinnitus, and ototoxicity following macrolide use. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Embase databases from database inception to May 2023. Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms and text keywords were utilized, without any language restrictions. In addition to the electronic databases, two authors manually and independently searched for relevant studies in the US and European clinical trial registries and Google Scholar. Studies that involved (1) patients who had hearing loss, tinnitus, or ototoxicity after macrolide use, (2) intervention of use of macrolides such as azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, fidaxomicin, roxithromycin, spiramycin, and/or telithromycin, (3) comparisons with specified placebos or other antibiotics, (4) outcomes measured as odds ratio (OR), relative risk (RR), hazard ratio (HR), and mean difference for ototoxicity symptoms using randomized control trial (RCT)s and observational studies (case–control, cross-section, and cohort studies) were included. Data extraction was performed independently by two extractors, and a crosscheck was performed to identify any errors. ORs along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using random-effects models. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses reporting guidelines for RCTs and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines for observational studies were followed. We assessed the hearing loss risk after macrolide use versus controls (placebos and other antibiotics). Based on data from 13 studies including 1,142,021 patients (n = 267,546 for macrolide and n = 875,089 for controls), the overall pooled OR was 1.25 (95% CI 1.07–1.47). In subgroup analysis by study design, the ORs were 1.37 (95% CI 1.08–1.73) for RCTs and 1.33 (95% CI 1.24–1.43) for case–control studies, indicating that RCT and case–control study designs showed a statistically significant higher risk of hearing loss. The group with underlying diseases such as multiple infectious etiologies (OR, 1.16 [95% CI 0.96–1.41]) had a statistically significant lower risk than the group without (OR, 1.53 [95% CI 1.38–1.70] P = .013). The findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that macrolide antibiotics increase the risk of hearing loss and that healthcare professionals should carefully consider this factor while prescribing macrolides.
Fewer culturable Lactobacillaceae species identified in faecal samples of pigs performing manipulative behaviour
Authors: König Emilia , Heponiemi Paulina , Kivinen Sanni , Räkköläinen Jaakko , Beasley Shea , Borman Tuomas , Collado Maria Carmen , Hukkinen Vilja , Junnila Jouni , Lahti Leo , Norring Marianna , Piirainen Virpi , Salminen Seppo , Heinonen Mari , Valros Anna
Published: January 2024

Manipulative behaviour that consists of touching or close contact with ears or tails of pen mates is common in pigs and can become damaging. Manipulative behaviour was analysed from video recordings of 45-day-old pigs, and 15 manipulator-control pairs (n = 30) were formed. Controls neither received nor performed manipulative behaviour. Rectal faecal samples of manipulators and controls were compared. 16S PCR was used to identify Lactobacillaceae species and 16S amplicon sequencing to determine faecal microbiota composition. Seven culturable Lactobacillaceae species were identified in control pigs and four in manipulator pigs. Manipulators (p = 0.02) and females (p = 0.005) expressed higher Lactobacillus amylovorus, and a significant interaction was seen (sex * status: p = 0.005) with this sex difference being more marked in controls. Females (p = 0.08) and manipulator pigs (p = 0.07) tended to express higher total Lactobacillaceae. A tendency for an interaction was seen in Limosilactobacillus reuteri (sex * status: p = 0.09). Results suggest a link between observed low diversity in Lactobacillaceae and the development of manipulative behaviour.
Analysis of the relationship between color and natural pigments of tobacco leaves during curing
Authors: Meng Yang , Wang Yuanhui , Guo Weimin , Lei Ke , Chen Zuxiao , Xu Hang , Wang Aiguo , Xu Qiang , Liu Jianjun , Zeng Qiang
Published: January 2024

Color is one of the most important indicators for the flue-cured tobacco quality. The color change of tobacco has a great relationship with the natural pigments in the tobacco. The relationship between color characteristics and the content of natural pigments in tobacco leaves during curing was investigated. The middle part of variety K326 tobacco was taken at each key time point during the curing process to determine the changes of color characteristics, moisture, pigment and polyphenol content. The results showed that moisture content of wet basis of tobacco gradually decreased from 72 to 18% during the curing process, the b* value increased and then decreased, and the a* value increased significantly. The lutein and β-carotene content decreased to 63.83 μg/g and 28.3 μg/g, respectively. The total polyphenols content increased to 50.19 mg/g. Meanwhile, the a* value was significantly and positively correlated with polyphenols content and negatively correlated with pigments content. Cluster analysis showed that the samples were divided into three categories: samples with the curing time of 0 h, 24–72 h, and 84–132 h. These results demonstrated that the color change of tobacco during curing process can be divided into three stages from the perspective of chemical composition, which are strongly related to the degradation of pigments and the transformation of polyphenols.
A sandwich amperometric immunosensor for the detection of fowl adenovirus group I based on bimetallic Pt/Ag nanoparticle-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Huang Jiaoling , Xie Zhixun , Luo Sisi , Li Meng , Xie Liji , Fan Qing , Zeng Tingting , Zhang Yanfang , Zhang Minxiu , Xie Zhiqin , Wang Sheng , Li Dan , Wei You , Li Xiaofeng , Wan Lijun , Ren Hongyu
Published: January 2024

An enzyme-free sandwich amperometric immunosensor based on bimetallic Pt/Ag nanoparticle (Pt/AgNPs)-functionalized chitosan (Chi)-modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as dual signal amplifiers and Chi-modified MWCNTs (MWCNTs-Chi) as substrate materials was developed for ultrasensitive detection of fowl adenovirus group I (FAdV-I). MWCNTs have a large specific surface area, and many accessible active sites were formed after modification with Chi. Hence, MWCNTs-Chi, as a substrate material for modifying glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs), could immobilize more antibodies (fowl adenovirus group I-monoclonal antibody, FAdV-I/MAb). Multiple Pt/AgNPs were attached to the surface of MWCNTs-Chi to generate MWCNTs-Chi-Pt/AgNPs with high catalytic ability for the reaction of H2O2 and modified active sites for fowl adenovirus group I-polyclonal antibody (FAdV-I/PAb) binding. Amperometric i–t measurements were employed to characterize the recognizability of FAdV-I. Under optimal conditions, and the developed immunosensor exhibited a wide linear range (100.93 EID50 mL−1 to 103.43 EID50 mL−1), a low detection limit (100.67 EID50 mL−1) and good selectivity, reproducibility and stability. This immunosensor can be used in clinical sample detection.
Omicron-specific and bivalent omicron-containing vaccine candidates elicit potent virus neutralisation in the animal model
Authors: Abdoli Asghar , Jamshidi Hamidreza , Taqavian Mohammad , Baghal Mehdi Lari , Jalili Hasan
Published: January 2024

Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) is able to escape from naturally acquired and vaccine-induced immunity, which mandates updating the current COVID-19 vaccines. Here, we investigated and compared the neutralising antibody induction of the ancestral variant-based BIV1-CovIran vaccine, the Omicron variant-based BIV1-CovIran Plus vaccine, and the novel bivalent vaccine candidate, BBIV1-CovIran, against the Omicron and ancestral Wuhan variants on the rat model. After inactivating the viral particles, the viruses were purified and formulated. Bivalent vaccines were a composition of 2.5 µg (5 µg total) or 5 µg (10 µg total) doses of each ansectral-based and Omicron-based monovalent vaccine. Subsequently, the potency of the monovalent and bivalent vaccines was investigated using the virus neutralisation test (VNT). The group that received three doses of the Omicron-specific vaccine demonstrated neutralisation activity against the Omicron variant with a geometric mean titer of 337.8. However, three doses of the Wuhan variant-specific vaccine could neutralise the Omicron variant at a maximum of 1/32 serum dilution. The neutralisation activity of the Omicron-specific vaccine, when administered as the booster dose after two doses of the Wuhan variant-specific vaccine, was 100% against the Omicron variant and the Wuhan variant at 1/64 and 1/128 serum dilution, respectively. Three doses of 5 µg bivalent vaccine could effectively neutralise both variants at the minimum of 1/128 serum dilution. The 10 µg bivalent vaccine at three doses showed even higher neutralisation titers: the geometric mean of 388 (95% CI 242.2–621.7) against Omicron and 445.7 (95% CI 303.3–655.0) against Wuhan. It is shown that the candidate bivalent and Omicron-specific vaccines could elicit a potent immune response against both Wuhan-Hu-1 and Omicron BA.1 variants.
Strategies and sustainability in fast charging station deployment for electric vehicles
Authors: Mohammed Abdallah , Saif Omar , Abo-Adma Maged , Fahmy Ashraf , Elazab Rasha
Published: January 2024

This comprehensive review investigates the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as a practical solution for environmental concerns associated with fossil fuel usage in mobility. The increasing demand for EVs underscores the critical importance of establishing efficient, fast-charging infrastructure, especially from the standpoint of the electrical power grid. The review systematically examines the planning strategies and considerations for deploying electric vehicle fast charging stations. It emphasizes their unique dual role as loads and storage units, intricately linked to diverse road and user constraints. Furthermore, the review underscores the significant opportunity surrounding these stations for the integration of distributed renewable energy sources. It thoroughly explores the challenges and opportunities intrinsic to the planning and localization process, providing insights into the complexities associated with these multifaceted stations. Renewable resources, including wind and solar energy, are investigated for their potential in powering these charging stations, with a simultaneous exploration of energy storage systems to minimize environmental impact and boost sustainability. In addition to analyzing planning approaches, the review evaluates existing simulation models and optimization tools employed in designing and operating fast charging stations. The review consolidates key findings and offers recommendations to researchers and grid authorities, addressing critical research gaps arising from the escalating demand for electric vehicle fast-charging infrastructure. This synthesis is a valuable resource for advancing understanding and implementing robust strategies in integrating EVs with the electrical power grid.
1H-NMR metabolomics analysis identifies hypoxanthine as a novel metastasis-associated metabolite in breast cancer
Authors: Shakartalla Sarra B. , Ashmawy Naglaa S. , Semreen Mohammad H. , Fayed Bahgat , Al Shareef Zainab M. , Jayakumar Manju N. , Ibrahim Saleh , Rahmani Mohamed , Hamdy Rania , Soliman Sameh S. M.
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in females, mainly because of metastasis. Oncometabolites, produced via metabolic reprogramming, can influence metastatic signaling cascades. Accordingly, and based on our previous results, we propose that metabolites from highly metastatic breast cancer cells behave differently from less-metastatic cells and may play a significant role in metastasis. For instance, we aim to identify these metabolites and their role in breast cancer metastasis. Less metastatic cells (MCF-7) were treated with metabolites secreted from highly metastatic cells (MDA-MB-231) and the gene expression of three epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers including E-cadherin, N-cadherin and vimentin were examined. Some metabolites secreted from MDA-MB-231 cells significantly induced EMT activity. Specifically, hypoxanthine demonstrated a significant EMT effect and increased the migration and invasion effects of MCF-7 cells through a hypoxia-associated mechanism. Hypoxanthine exhibited pro-angiogenic effects via increasing the VEGF and PDGF gene expression and affected lipid metabolism by increasing the gene expression of PCSK-9. Notably, knockdown of purine nucleoside phosphorylase, a gene encoding for an important enzyme in the biosynthesis of hypoxanthine, and inhibition of hypoxanthine uptake caused a significant decrease in hypoxanthine-associated EMT effects. Collectively for the first time, hypoxanthine was identified as a novel metastasis-associated metabolite in breast cancer cells and represents a promising target for diagnosis and therapy.
Symptom presentation by phenotype of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome
Authors: Angeli Allison M. , Salonen Bradley R. , Ganesh Ravindra , Hurt Ryan T. , Abdalrhim Ahmed , Mueller Michael , Volcheck Mary , Aakre Christopher
Published: January 2024

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) presents heterogeneously and is diagnosed when appropriate symptoms are present in conjunction with a heart rate increase of at least 30 beats-per-minute upon standing without orthostatic hypotension. Much of the current understanding of POTS is based on clinical expertise, particularly regarding POTS phenotypes and their potential role in targeting pharmacologic treatment. This study describes the symptom presentation of POTS by phenotypes at a subspecialty POTS clinic. Data was collected prospectively during clinical visits between April 17, 2014 and February 8, 2021. This data was abstracted retrospectively by chart review. Most of the 378 study participants were female (89.9%) with a mean age 23.0 ± 4.9 years. Lightheadedness was the most common (97.6%) symptom and the most disruptive of quality of life (29.9%). Patients reported substantial functional impairment across multiple life domains, with 3.0 ± 2.8 days lost and 4.7 ± 2.3 unproductive days per week. There were no differences in symptom presentation among POTS phenotypes. POTS phenotypes are not distinguishable based on symptoms alone; if phenotyping is sought, testing is necessary. Further research is needed in better classifying POTS phenotypes with the potential goal of tailoring treatment.
Uniformly positive or negative correlation of cerebral gray matter regions with driving safety behaviors of healthy older drivers
Authors: Park Kaechang , Putra Handityo Aulia , Yoshida Shinichi , Yamashita Fumio , Kawaguchi Atsushi
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the relationship between cerebral gray matter (GM) regions and driving safety behaviors (DSBs) of 98 older drivers without dementia (mean age, 77.72 ± 3.677 years). Their DSBs were evaluated on actual vehicles running on a closed-circuit course. The DSB was scored in six categories: DSB1, visual search behavior; DSB2, speeding; DSB3, signaling of the indicator; DSB4, vehicle stability; DSB5, positioning; and DSB6, steering. The scores were calculated by a single driving instructor; larger scores indicated safer driving performances. Regional GM volumes were measured with voxel-based morphometry by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Out of 56 GM regions, 18 were correlated with DSB categories except for DSB4. When a single GM region was correlated with multiple DSB categories, a positive or negative response was uniformly determined for the respective region despite clear differences in the DSB categories. This result suggests the possible existence of two contradictory mechanisms in the brain for DSB. The left postcentral gyrus may largely function in regulating DSBs because it was negatively correlated with five of six DSB categories. Thus, MRI’s measurement of regional GM volumes may help deepen the understanding of the diversity and complexity inherent in brain functions for DSBs.