bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Cumulative TVD Error in Horizontal Wells Drilled with Rotary Steerable Systems
Authors: Dunn Joel
Published: February 2024

It is known that the Stockhausen Effect, characterized as the accumulation of TVD error in directional wellbores resulting from the slide/rotate process employed with bent-housing mud motors, can have a significant impact on wellbore placement in the TVD plane. While much research has been conducted, and commercial solutions have been deployed to account for and correct these errors, all are focused on mud motor slide/rotate drilling. As contemporary drilling programs move to ever-increasing lateral lengths, utilization of Rotary Steerable Systems (RSS) is also trending upward. While potential advantages may exist in favor of RSS, like the elimination of slide drilling, it is important to consider that not all undesirable phenomena associated with slide drilling (well placement error, tortuosity, rugosity, high localized DLS, etc.) vanish from the wellbore. These characteristics are still present in the RSS wellbore and should be analyzed and quantified to ensure that wellbore quality metrics are consistent for all drilling methods.

To investigate cumulative TVD error in RSS wells, we developed a system to utilize the real time downhole steering data from RSS to populate a steering sheet that can be processed through an algorithm designed to account for TVD errors resulting from the Stockhausen effect. By capturing the RSS toolface and steering proportion in real time, we can determine at what intervals the RSS is actively steering and during what intervals it is drilling in a neutral, non-biasing mode. The result of cycling between steering and non-steering cycles creates a pattern similar to a slide/rotate sequence experienced when using steerable mud motors. This information allows us to construct a more accurate representation of the true trajectory of the wellbore than is provided by minimum curvature between the standard 95’ survey course lengths. In addition to uncovering TVD error this method also provides a higher resolution picture of various tortuosity metrics like borehole curvature and torsion.

We examined data from numerous wells across several basins to observe the TVD error generated by RSS steering mechanisms. It was concluded that these TVD errors should be considered for accurate wellbore positioning, and in addition revealed potential to enhance trajectory optimization capabilities of some Rotary Steerable Systems. In addition to uncovering TVD error, the high-resolution trajectory allows for a thorough examination of wellbore tortuosity, including localized DLS, and wellbore curvature and torsion to aid in identifying potential trouble zones in the lateral.
Albumin-loaded nanofiber for topical wound healing
Authors: Saadat Fatemeh , Azarbayjani Anahita Fathi
Published: February 2024

Background
Intravenous albumin administration increases blood circulation and enhances wound healing. Topical caffeine can induce vascularization and the formation of blood vessels on the skin. The purpose of this work is to explore for the first time the effect of topical albumin and caffeine on wound healing in rat models.
Methods
This work aimed to develop albumin and caffeine-loaded nanofibers by the electrospinning method and to evaluate their topical effect on wound healing. Nanofiber formation was assessed by SEM and considered using FT-IR spectroscopy.
Results
The therapeutic activity of topical albumin and caffeine was investigated on a full-thickness excision skin model. Results indicate faster healing of wounds covered with albumin. Albumin alone or in combination with caffeine effectively reduced the exposed wound area. Data show that daily albumin-loaded wound dressing displayed good healing properties and enhanced wound closure rate.
Conclusion
These findings may indicate the successful application of the sauce as a promising tool in wound healing therapy.
Escalating High-dimensional Imaging using Combinatorial Channel Multiplexing and Deep Learning
Authors: Keren Leeat , Ben-Uri Raz , Shabat Lior Ben , Bar-Tal Omer , Bussi Yuval , Maimon Noa , Haran Tal Keidar , Milo Idan , Elhanani Ofer , Rochwarger Alexander , Schürch Christian M. , Bagon Shai
Published: February 2024

Understanding tissue structure and function requires tools that quantify the expression of multiple proteins at single-cell resolution while preserving spatial information. Current imaging technologies use a separate channel for each individual protein, inherently limiting their throughput and scalability. Here, we present CombPlex (COMBinatorial multiPLEXing), a combinatorial staining platform coupled with an algorithmic framework to exponentially increase the number of proteins that can be measured from C up to 2C − 1, and is applicable to any mass spectrometry based or fluorescence-based microscopy platform. In CombPlex, every protein can be imaged in several channels, and every channel contains agglomerated images of several proteins. These combinatorically-compressed images are then decompressed to individual protein-images using deep learning and optimization. We perform feasibility experiments in silico and achieve accurate (F1=0.98, R=0.99) reconstruction for compressing the stains of twenty-two proteins to five imaging channels. We test our approach experimentally and obtain accurate (F1=0.97, R=0.93) images of seven proteins using three channels, both in fluorescence microscopy and in mass-based imaging. We demonstrate that combinatorial staining coupled with deep-learning decompression can serve to escalate the number of proteins measured using any imaging modality, without the need for specialized instrumentation. Coupling CombPlex with instruments for high dimensional imaging could pave the way to image hundreds of proteins at single-cell resolution in intact tissue sections.
Ocular infections by melanized fungi Curvularia lunata and Lasiodiplodia theobromae: antifungal susceptibility, clinical outcome, and clinico-microbiological correlation.
Authors: Mitra Sanchita , Garg Prashant , Murthy Somasheila , Jakati Saumya , Mohammed Ashik , Dave Vivek Pravin , Seba Esther , Kambar Swati
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Antifungal resistance is on the rise, with limited number of antifungals available for clinical use and very few new ones in the pipeline. Melanized fungal pathogens have been rarely studied for their antifungal susceptibility patterns and clinical outcomes, though they are the second most common cause of fungal ocular infections after hyaline fungi. Our study aims to report the antifungal susceptibility, clinical outcomes, and clinico-microbiological correlation of two common melanized fungi Curvularia lunata and Lasiodiplodia theobromae isolated from ocular infections.
Method: Antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST) was performed by broth microdilution technique as per standard guidelines in 30 isolates (17 C. lunata and 13 L. theobromae). Antifungal panel tested consisted of the polyenes amphotericin B and natamycin, the azoles voriconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, itraconazole and fluconazole, and the echinocandin caspofungin. Isolates resistant to more than or equal to two classes of antifungals were considered as multidrug resistant (MDR). DNA sequencing was performed for subset of isolates for species confirmation following conventional mycology. Statistical analysis consisted of both descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis.
Results: Isolates showed highest susceptibility to voriconazole (83.3% isolates), followed by natamycin (80%), fluconazole (80%), itraconazole (76.7%), ketoconazole (70%), posaconazole (66.7%), caspofungin (66.7%) and amphotericin B (63.3%), though MIC50 was on the lower side for all the antifungals. All patients were empirically administered topical natamycin with additional oral ketoconazole or intraocular voriconazole in select patients. Multivariate analysis suggested strong association between MDR and poor clinical outcome (p=0.03, odds ratio=7.8). All patients presented with microbial keratitis and one progressed to endophthalmitis. Surgical management with therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (TPK) were required in 40% of patients. Good anatomical outcome was observed in 80% of patients, half of whom had good visual outcome too. Poor anatomical and visual outcome were observed in 20% of patients. DNA sequencing of subset of study isolates showed Curvularia lunata to be the highest Curvularia spp. study isolates (n=5/7). Histopathological examination of excised corneal buttons (TPK) showed fungal filaments in 66.7% (n=8/12) of cases.
Conclusion: Melanized fungi causing ocular infections have varying in-vitro susceptibility to different antifungal agents and clinical outcome. Voriconazole showed significantly higher and amphotericin B lower activity in-vitro for the fungi. The MDR isolates showed poorer clinical outcomes.
Visible light and dark-driven degradation of palm oil mill effluent (POME) over g-C3N4 and photorechargeable WO3
Authors: Razali Nur Aqilah Mohd , Salleh Wan Norharyati Wan , Mohamed Mohamad Azuwa , Aziz Farhana , Jye Lau Woei , Yusof Norhaniza , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: February 2024

The investigations of real industrial wastewater, such as palm oil mill effluent (POME), as a recalcitrant pollutant remain a subject of global water pollution concern. Thus, this work introduced the preparation and modification of g-C3N4 and WO3 at optimum calcination temperature, where they were used as potent visible light-driven photocatalysts in the degradation of POME under visible light irradiation. Herein, g-C3N4-derived melamine and WO3 photocatalyst were obtained at different calcination temperatures in order to tune their light absorption ability and optoelectronics properties. Both photocatalysts were proven to have their distinct phases, crystallinity levels, and elements with increasing temperature, as demonstrated by the ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results. Significantly, g-C3N4 (580°C) and WO3 (450°C) unitary photocatalysts exhibited the highest removal efficiency of POME without dilution due to good crystallinity, extended light absorption, high separation, and less recombination efficiency of electron-hole pairs. Furthermore, surprisingly, the superior energy storage photocatalytic performance with outstanding stability by WO3 achieved an approximately 10% increment during darkness, compared with g-C3N4 under visible light irradiation. Moreover, it has been proven that the WO3 and g-C3N4 photocatalysts are desirable photocatalysts for various pollutant degradations, with excellent visible-light utilization and favorable energy storage application.
Analysis and verification of ferroptosis-related genes in pediatric hepatoblastoma
Authors: Ye Xiaoshuo , Chen Wei , Xia Yongjie , Chen Zimin , Zheng Yuelan , Wang Bin
Published: February 2024

Background
Identifying effective biomarker in hepatoblastoma (HB) is important for predicting prognosis. This study committed to investigate the prognostic value of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in HB.
Methods and Results
The two datasets of pediatric HB were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and analyzed differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional enrichment analysis was performed for these DEGs. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to screen the key modules. FRGs were obtained from the ferroptosis database. Subsequently, after identified of the candidate hub genes by the intersection of DEGs, key module genes and FRGs, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were finally applied to identify the hub genes. Two hub genes, TRL4 and TUBE1, were obtained with the AUC of 0.940 and 0.932. The gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was exerted to explore the signaling pathways related to the hub genes. The promoted expression of two hub genes in ferroptosis inducer, erastin-treated HB cell lines was verified via real-time qPCR. The effect of hub genes on viability and ferroptosis of HB cell line was verified in vitro. Specifically, the silence of TRL4 and TUBE1 could inhibit the ferroptosis and reverse the proliferation inhibition of HepG2 cells under erastin treating.
Conclusion
Ferroptosis-related genes TRL4 and TUBE1 emerge remarkable prognostic performance in pediatric HB as well as therapeutic target in the future. TRL4 and TUBE1 could function as tumor inhibiting factors in HB by promoting cell proliferation and prohibiting ferroptosis.
An Online Program of Seated Gentle Yoga & Yogic Breathing Improves Symptoms in Scleroderma: A Quality Improvement Study
Authors: Balasubramanian Sundaravadivel , Blackwelder Amanda F , Wahlquist Amy E , Hendrix Katharine H. , Leyland Alexandria , Baskar Nivetha
Published: February 2024

Importance
Dry mouth is a common symptom experienced by scleroderma patients. Gentle yoga & yogic breathing improves salivation and other symptoms through parasympathetic dominance and may help scleroderma patients.
Objective
To conduct a pilot, feasibility study of an online Gentle Yoga and Yogic Breathing (GYYB) intervention for scleroderma patients during COVID-19 pandemic.
Design, Setting, and participants
A 60-minute GYYB exercise session was designed with consideration for the limitations of the scleroderma population and advertised in online communities. There were 99 participants registered over a seven week period. The sessions were led by certified Yoga Therapist weekly on Saturdays from 11 AM to 12 PM eastern time for seven weeks during COVID-19 pandemic (from 4/4/2020 to 5/16/2020) via the Zoom online teleconferencing tool. After each session participants had the opportunity to voluntarily complete feedback questionnaires about the session using Google Forms® designed for this purpose.
Results
Of 99 people that attended the sessions, 45 participants responded to the questionnaires. Over half (57.8%) respondents stated they would “Definitely” return to another session and participant satisfaction with the intervention was high (mean [SD] score 9.1 (1.3) on a scale of 1 [“Didn’t Like It at All”] to 10 [“Loved It”]). The majority reported liking both the yoga and breathing activities (75.6%) and 22.2% preferred the breathing activities. The majority (75.6%) found participation using computer or mobile phone “Very Easy”, with one participant reporting that it was “Very Difficult”. Most participants found doing yoga once daily (61.4%) for 30 minutes (56.6%) was most feasible. After one session, the majority (64.3%) reported they “Felt Better”, and no adverse effects were reported by any participant during the study.
Conclusion and Relevance
These data provide the first published evidence that an online yoga intervention may help address the need for low-cost, effective, non-pharmacological interventions to help people with scleroderma manage secondary symptoms and potentially improve their QoL.
Prevalence of post-COVID symptoms in a cohort of hospitalized patients in the North Coast of Colombia
Authors: Lozano Ana , Salcedo-Mejia Fernando , Dueñas Carmelo , Fernandez Juan Carlos , Arias Marly Jerez , Wilches Justo Paz , Zakzuk Nelson Rafael Alvis , Moyano-Tamara Lina , Alvis-Zakzuk Nelson J. , Zakzuk Josefina , Alvis-Guzman Nelson
Published: February 2024

Understanding the prevalence and severity of post-COVID-19 conditions among hospitalized patients is crucial for developing effective strategies for managing the long-term consequences of the disease. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and severity of post-COVID-19 conditions in previously hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The study involved two phases: first, participants were contacted via phone call by trained personnel from the healthcare company and surveyed. In the second phase, two months after the telephone survey, a medical visit was conducted in the group of individuals who reported persistent symptoms in the previous call. Summary statistics such as mean, standard deviation (SD), interquartile range (IQR), 95%CI as well as absolute and relative frequencies of patients' baseline characteristics were reported. Changes were assessed through statistical tests for differences in means and proportions. Multivariate analyses were also conducted. The prevalence of at least one post-hospitalization condition after three months of COVID-19 hospitalization was 78.7 per 100 people. The most common symptoms included fatigue (55.4%), joint pain (46.0%), dyspnea (44.6%), sleep disorders (36.1%), anorexia (33.7%), and chest pain (31.7%). These conditions were frequent and disabling, experiencing at least one condition after three months. Within this group, more than 70% showed a deterioration in their health status (EQ5D-5L Scale) or experienced new or worsened disability in at least one domain of the Washington Group. Our study demonstrates that post-COVID-19 conditions in previously hospitalized patients are highly prevalent, which can adversely affect patients' quality of life and lead to increased demand for healthcare services.
Social threat avoidance depends on action-outcome predictability
Authors: Sequestro Matteo , Serfaty Jade , Grèzes Julie , Mennella Rocco
Published: February 2024

Adaptative action selection in threatening social contexts, for example when facing aggressive individuals, is core to social behavior. It is debated whether, when facing threat, initial action opportunities are mostly determined by automatic action tendencies – i.e., reactive stimulus-response (SR) associations – or by rapid and implicit goal-directed (GD) processes, which depend on the predicted consequences of available actions. To investigate the balance between SR and GD, we conducted three experiments manipulating the predictability of action-outcomes associations, in a novel approach-avoidance decision task in virtual reality. Participants presented a greater avoidance rate from angry individuals when the action-outcome association was predictable. Computationally, this was subtended by more efficient evidence accumulation, as indicated by an increased drift rate. Furthermore, cardiac deceleration around the time of choice was greater in the predictable condition and allowed the value attributed to the outcome to be better integrated into the decision. Finally, while most participants avoided angry individuals only under predictability, supporting a predominant role of GD processes, a minority of them avoided regardless of predictability. Overall, our results shed light on the computational architecture of social avoidance, opening interesting new research and clinical perspectives.
Beyond the Screen: Exploring the Dynamics of Social Media Influencers, Food Marketing, and Gendered Influences on Adolescent Diets
Authors: Amson Ashley , Bagnato Mariangela , Remedios Lauren , Pritchard Meghan , Soulene Sabir , Gillis Grace , Pauzé Elise , White Christine , Vanderlee Lana , Hammond David , Kent Monique Potvin
Published: February 2024

Background Adolescent obesity remains a public health concern, exacerbated by the risks posed by unhealthy food marketing, particularly on digital platforms. Social media influencers are increasingly utilized in digital marketing, yet their impact on adolescents remains understudied. This research explores the frequency of posts containing food products/brands, the most promoted food categories, the healthfulness of featured products, and the types of marketing techniques used by social media influencers popular with male and female adolescents. Methods A content analysis was conducted on posts between June 1, 2021, and May 31, 2022, posted by the top three social media influencers popular with males and female adolescents (13–17) on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube (N = 1373). Descriptive statistics were applied to calculate frequencies for posts containing food products/brands, promoted food categories, product healthfulness, and marketing techniques. Health Canada’s Nutrient Profile Model classified product healthfulness. Results On average, social media influencers popular with males featured 1 food product/brand for every 2.5 posts compared to social media influencers popular with females who featured 1 food product/brand for every 6.1 posts. Water (27%) was the primary food category for social media influencers popular with females, while restaurants (24%) dominated for males. Social media influencers popular with males more commonly posted food products that were less healthy (89% versus 57%). Marketing techniques varied. Social media influencers popular with females used songs or music (53% vs 26%), the use of other influencers (26% vs 11%), appeals to fun or coolness (26% vs 13%), viral marketing (29% vs 19%), and appeals to beauty (11% vs 0%) more commonly. Comparatively, those popular with males more commonly used calls-to-action (27% vs 6%) and price promotions (8% vs 1%). Conclusion Social media influencers play a role in shaping adolescents' dietary preferences and behaviors. An often-overlooked aspect is the nuanced interplay of gender dynamics, where influencers contribute to the reinforcement or subversion of gendered expectations. As marketing plays a pivotal role in shaping dietary choices, understanding these gender-specific dynamics is essential for developing targeted interventions, policies, and educational initiatives aimed at promoting healthier food choices directed towards adolescents.
Thermal decomposition study of 4-methyloxybenzyl-glycoside by TG/DTA and on-line pyrolysis-photoionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Wu Lei , Wang Yiming , Yang Liutianyi , Jian Meiling , Ding Yu
Published: February 2024

A glycosidic bond flavor precursor of 4-methyloxybenzyl-2, 3, 4, 6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (MBGL) was synthesized by the modified Koenigs-Knorr reaction. The thermal decomposition behaviour and pyrolysis intermediate products of the glycoside were studied by simultaneous thermo-gravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA) and synchrotron vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) photoionization mass spectrometry (PIMS). TG/DTA gave a TG-DTG curve, which showed the Tp of the glycoside was 246.7 ℃ with a largest mass loss rate. The total mass loss was 97.8%. The PIMS was used to identify the pyrolysis products of the MBGL at different temperatures. Some important pyrolysis intermediates, such as the ions of 4-methyloxybenzyl group at m/z 122 and glycon moiety at m/z 347, were detected by the PIMS. The results indicated that the MBGL was probably showed a different pyrolysis way compared with other glycoside. This work reported a good application of synchrotron VUV PIMS in thermal decomposition study of glycoside flavor precursor.
Synthesis, Characterization of Two New Schiff Base and Their PdII Complexes and Investigation of Palladium Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions
Authors: Turan Nevin , Buldurun Kenan , Bingöl Mustafa , Çolak Naki
Published: February 2024

Two Schiff base ligands, S1 and S2, were synthesized from the reaction of 2-amino-5-ethyl-4-methylthiophene-3-carbonitrile with 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde and 4-nitrobenzaldehyde were investigated for their coordination to PdCl2(CH3CN)2. The prepared ligands S1 and S2 and the PdII complexes 1 and 2 were characterized by using FTIR, 1H, and 13C NMR, UV-Vis, TGA, elemental analysis, molar conductivity, mass, and magnetic susceptibility. The characterization data agree well with the formulation of ligands S1 and S2 and complexes 1 and 2. The geometries of the metal chelate were discussed with the help of magnetic and spectroscopic measurements. Finally, the catalytic potential of the synthesized PdII complexes for Suzuki-Miyaura and Mizoroki-Heck coupling reactions was investigated using GC-MS. As a result, it was observed that the palladium complexes are the active catalysts in suitable Suzuki-Miyaura and Mizoroki-Heck C-C coupling reactions.
Ultrasound stimulated microbubbles cavitation enhanced the therapeutic effect of colchicine in rats with acute gouty arthritis
Authors: Zhang Jicheng , Bo Gou , Wang Tian-rui , Li Yan-hui , Dang Wan-tai , Wen Wen , Liu Jian
Published: February 2024

Objective
To investigate whether cavitation induced by ultrasound stimulated microbubbles (USMB) can enhance the therapeutic effect of colchicine and reduce its side effects on acute gouty arthritis (AGA) in rats.
Materials and Methods
Each rat underwent right ankle joint contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) before and following cavitation treatment. The area under the curve (AUC) of CEUS before and after cavitation and among groups were compared to contrast the impact on blood perfusion of the ankle joint in rats with cavitation. The symptoms of AGA were evaluated based on 24-hour ankle joint swelling degree and gait score. The infiltration of neutrophils was assessed using the Hematoxylin-eosin(HE)staining, while the inflammation and dilation of blood vessels were measured by and plasma interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Moreover, the magnitude of side effects was analyzed by gastrointestinal reaction score.
Results
The AUC after cavitation induced by USMB were significantly higher than those before cavitation. When compared with groups without cavitation, the AUC were markedly higher in groups treated with cavitation (all p<0.01). In groups treated with cavitation combined with colchicine, the degree of ankle swelling, gait scores, and the level of plasma IL-1β in AGA rats were lower, while the concentration of plasma eNOS was higher, group treated with colchicine alone (all p<0.05). HE staining showed that cavitation combined with colchicine helped to reduce the neutrophil synovial infiltration of ankle joint and decrease the gastrointestinal reaction score in rats with AGA. Compared with the three groups receiving drug treatment, the incidence of gastrointestinal reaction score in the low concentration group was significantly lower than that in the high concentration groups (all p<0.05).
Conclusion
The cavitation induced by USMB could significantly enhance the blood perfusion of ankle joint in rats with AGA, leading to the increase in therapeutic effect of colchicine and reduce the dose used of colchicine, thus minimizing the side effects associated with it.
Identification of candidate genes for feed efficiency and growth traits in Wenchang chickens
Authors: Cai keqi , liu Ranran , Wei Limin , Wang Xiuping , cui Huanxian , Luo Na , Wen Jie , Chang Yuxiao , Zhao Guiping
Published: February 2024

Background
Wenchang chickens are one of the most popular local chicken breeds in the Chinese chicken industry. However, the low feed conversion efficiency is the main shortcoming of this breed. Therefore, we urgently need to find a more precise breeding method to improve the feed efficiency of Wenchang chickens. In this study, we explored important candidate genes and variants for feed efficiency and growth traits by genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis.
Results
Estimates of genomic heritability for growth and feed efficiency traits, including residual feed intake (RFI), average daily food intake (ADFI), average daily weight gain (ADG), body weight at 87, 95, 104, 113 days of age (BW87, BW95, BW104 and BW113), ranged from 0.05 to 0.44. Important candidate genes were screened related to feed efficiency and growth traits were screened, including PLCE1, LAP3, MED28, QDPR, LDB2 and SEL1L3 genes.
Conclusion
The results identified important candidate genes for feed efficiency and growth traits in Wenchang chickens and provide a theoretical basis for development of new molecular breeding technology.
WWP1 localizes in the Golgi apparatus and contributes to maintaining glycosaminoglycan synthesis in adipocytes
Authors: Nozaki Yuka , Suwa Fumika , Furuya Kazuhiro , Komeno Masahiro , Hoshino Shunsuke , Mizunoe Yuhei , Higashi Kyohei , Kobayashi Masaki , Higami Yoshikazu
Published: February 2024

White adipocytes are a major component of white adipose tissue (WAT) and help to maintain systemic metabolic homeostasis because they store energy and secrete adipokines. In mice deficient in the protein WWP1 (WW domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1) oxidative stress in adipocytes is increased but insulin resistance induced by obesity is improved. However, the specific roles of WWP1 in adipocytes remain unclear. Here, we show that in 3T3L1 adipocytes WWP1 is localized in the Golgi apparatus and can protect the Golgi apparatus from monensin-induced disruption. By contrast, WWP1 knockdown by short hairpin RNA not only failed to protect the Golgi apparatus but also enhanced Golgi apparatus disruption by monensin. The Golgi apparatus acts as a central organelle to establish accurate protein glycosylation of proteoglycans containing glycosaminoglycans, including chondroitin sulfate (CS) and heparan sulfate (HS). Thus, we measured the amount of CS and HS and found that WWP1 overexpression increased CS and HS levels, whereas WWP1 knockdown decreased them. Furthermore, obesity-related increases in HS were prevented by WWP1 knockout in adipose tissue. In summary, we show that WWP1 in adipocytes localizes to the Golgi apparatus and may protect Golgi apparatus structure by contributing to the synthesis of proteoglycans.
Effects of Intra-Session Exercise Sequence and Circadian Rhythms on Physical Capacity and Sleep Quality in Obese Women
Authors: Cho Yeong-Hyun , Seo Tae-Beom
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to determine the effects of exercise orders and circadian rhythms on body composition, blood lipids, physical fitness and upper- and lower-extremity muscular functions in adult obese women. Forty-four women with obesity were divided into the obesity control group (OCG), aerobic-resistance exercise in the morning group (ARMG), resistance-aerobic exercise in the morning group (RAMG), aerobic-resistance exercise in the evening group (AREG), and resistance-aerobic exercise in the evening group (RAEG). The combined exercise program consisted of treadmill exercise and weight training, and all participants performed the exercise for 8 weeks. Body weight, body mass, body mass index and fasting glucose were significantly decreased in the RAMG at post. while other body compositions and blood lipids did not change at the post compared the baseline. Upper-and lower-extremity muscular functions and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index value was significantly lower in all exercise groups versus OCG. Our findings provide new evidence that resistance-aerobic exercise order in the morning might positively improve body weight, body mass, body mass index and fasting glucose in obese women. In addition, physical fitness and upper- and lower-extremity muscular functions and sleep quality might be improved by performing regular exercise programs regardless of exercise order and timing.
Unveiling pathogenic and non-pathogenic FGF14 repeat expansions: identification, sequence, and secondary structure
Authors: Depienne Christel , Mohren Lars , Erdlenbruch Friedrich , Leitão Elsa , Kilpert Fabian , Hönes G. Sebastian , Thieme Andreas , Sturm Marc , Park Joohyun , Schlüter Agatha , Ruiz Montserrat , Prida Moisés Morales de la , Casasnovas Carlos , Becker Kerstin , Roggenbuck Ulla , Pechlivanis Sonali , Kaiser Frank , Synofzik Matthis , Wirth Thomas , Anheim Mathieu , Haack Tobias , Lockhart Paul , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Pujol Aurora , Klebe Stephan , Timmann Dagmar , Kaya Sabine , Schroeder Christopher
Published: February 2024

Repeat expansions in FGF14cause autosomal dominant late-onset cerebellar ataxia (SCA27B), with pathogenic thresholds estimated between 250 and 300 AAG repeats. However, the complete sequences of pathogenic and non-pathogenic alleles remain largely unknown. Here, we identify FGF14 repeat expansions as the most commonly missed cause of cerebellar ataxia using a combination of short-read genome sequencing, long-range PCR and nanopore sequencing. We compare FGF14 alleles in 154 patients with ataxia and 802 controls and report an enrichment of pure FGF14 expansions above 180-220 repeats in patients. Conversely, AAGGAG and interrupted alleles are more frequent in controls. Distinct 5'-flanking regions correlate with repeat stability. SCA27B patients have a characteristic phenotype, including frequent episodic ataxia and downbeat nystagmus, similar to those with a novel nonsense variant (SCA27A). Interestingly, pathogenic and non-pathogenic repeats form different secondary structures. Our results emphasize the importance of sequencing both the repeat expansion and its flanking region for accurate clinical interpretation.
Transfer of ethanol to a solvent during Fermentation in the Presence of Agitation
Authors: Sirkar Amalesh , Roy Sebak , Sahu Somak Jyoti
Published: February 2024

The aqueous phase mass transfer coefficient (Kaq) for ethanol transfer to the organic phase during fermentation has been successfully correlated with various system parameters in the presence of suspended yeast flocs under agitated conditions. In particular, a semi-empirical correlation of Kaq with the rpm of the stirrer, the void space in the broth, and the surface area of dead cells has been developed. In general, it has been found that Kaq increases with the rpm of the stirrer and the ratio of the void volume to the dead cell surface area. Kaq' increases marginally though with higher incubation time at a given rpm of stirrer. The correlation is valid within a period of 12 to 30 hours of incubation time. The RPM range is 200 to 300 and the ratio of void volume to dead cell surface area ratio ranged from 3.86×10-4 to 1.69×10-3 meter. The fermentation time required was only 25 to 30 hours compared to conventional fermentation systems, where it takes a minimum of 40 to 48 hours. The organic phase mass transfer coefficient (Korg) is 300 to 500 times higher than Kaq. This is due to the drag of the yeast floc surfaces to the ethanol transferring eddies from the bulk to the interface.
Anesthesia management of bilateral femur shaft fracture and left tibiofibular fracture for bilateral sign nail and tibiofibular sign with cervical spine injury and epidural hematoma: a case report
Authors: Tadesse Shitalem , Daniel Tenbite
Published: February 2024

Preoperative evaluation by an anesthetist must be performed since 70% of patients with a femur fracture will have an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of III to IV. Although they occur rarely between 1 and 7%, bilateral femur fractures are linked to significant morbidity and mortality. Previous reports have described anesthetic management for aged patients who have bilateral femur fracture is difficult and needs team and increased perioperative complications. This case emphasizes the necessity to prepare adequately and improve knowledge and awareness of anesthetic management of patients for bilateral femur fracture and tibiofibular fracture for aged patients and needs multidisciplinary team to cooperate and increase the positive outcome of the patients. Patients with these conditions may present with various sign and symptoms that complicate the administration of anesthesia. Decisions regarding when to operate either before resuscitation or after the patient is resuscitated are one area of concern and consider preserving organ damage from secondary complications and maintain hemodynamic stability to ensure the anesthesia management is optimal and to increase the good outcomes of the patient. Case report: A 50 year old male presented with bilateral femur shaft fracture and left tibiofibular fracture following road traffic accident and was planned for bilateral sign nail and left tibiofibular sign. Patient has cervical spine injury and epidural hematoma. Patient has undergone general anesthesia with endotracheal tube. Conclusion: We present a successful anesthetic management of patients who had bilateral femur fracture and left tibiofibular fracture with cervical spine injury and epidural hematoma. We emphasize the risk of neurological injury while extending the neck during laryngoscopy for tracheal intubation due to cervical spine injuries and we preferred to general anesthesia over spinal anesthesia due to contraindicated for spinal anesthesia in these patients. A detailed pre anesthetic evaluation and multidisciplinary approach as well as planning is utmost important and the anesthetic technique has to be individualized based on the patients anatomical characteristics and associated co-morbidities.
Early detection of low QRS voltage and its association with mortality in patients with sepsis
Authors: Na Soo Jin , Ko Ryoung-Eun , Chung Chi Ryang , Yang Jeong Hoon , Oh Dong Kyu , Lee Su Yeon , Park Mi Hyeon , Lee Haein , Lim Chae-Man , Suh Gee Young
Published: February 2024

Various electrocardiographic changes occur during sepsis, but data on the clinical importance of a low QRS voltage in sepsis are still limited. We aimed to evaluate the association between low QRS voltage identified early in sepsis and mortality in patients with sepsis. Between September 2019 and December 2020, all consecutive adult patients diagnosed with sepsis in the emergency room or general ward at Samsung Medical Center were enrolled. Patients without a 12-lead electrocardiogram recorded within 48 hours of recognition of sepsis were excluded. In 432 eligible patients, 12-lead electrocardiogram was recorded within the median of 24 minutes from the first recognition of sepsis, and low QRS voltage was identified in 115 (26.6%) patients. The low QRS group showed more severe organ dysfunction and had higher levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide. The hospital mortality was significantly higher in the low QRS voltage group than in the normal QRS voltage group (49.6% vs. 28.1%, p < 0.001). Similarly, among the 160 patients who required intensive care unit admission, significantly more patients in the low QRS group died in the intensive care unit (35.9% vs. 18.2%, p = 0.021). Low QRS voltage was associated with increased hospital mortality in patients with sepsis.
Deep Neural Network Modeling for Brain Tumor Classification Using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging
Authors: Bjørkeli Erin Beate , Johannessen Knut , Geitung Jonn Terje , Karlberg Anna Maria , Eikenes Live , Esmaeili Morteza
Published: February 2024

This study is motivated by the intricate and expert-demanding nature of magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging (MRSI) data processing, particularly in the context of brain tumor examinations. Traditional approaches often involve complex manual procedures, requiring substantial expertise. In response, we explore the application of deep neural networks directly on raw MRSI data in the time domain. With brain tumors posing significant health concerns, the imperative for early and accurate detection is paramount for effective treatment. While conventional MRI methods face limitations in rapid and accurate spatial evaluation of diffusive gliomas, accuracy and efficiency are compromised. In contrast, MRSI emerges as a promising tool, offering insights into tissue chemical composition and metabolic alterations. Our proposed model, leveraging deep neural networks, is specifically designed for spectral time series analysis and classification tasks. Trained on a dataset comprising synthetic and real MRSI data from brain tumor patients, the model aims to distinguish MRSI voxels indicative of pathologies from healthy ones. Our results demonstrate the model's robustness in domain transformation, seamlessly adapting from synthetic spectra to in vivo data through a fine-tuning process. Successful classification of MRSI voxels of glioma from healthy tissues underscores the model's potential in clinical applications, signifying a transformative impact on diagnostic and prognostic evaluations in brain tumor examinations. Ongoing research endeavors are directed towards validating these integrated approaches across larger datasets, with the ultimate goal of establishing standardized guidelines and further enhancing their clinical utility.
Research on the Early Warning Indicator System for Public Safety Risks in County Areas of the Yangtze River Delta Region during Urbanization Process
Authors: Ke Yin
Published: February 2024

China's intense urbanization has profoundly impacted county-level societies, leading to increased diversity and contradictions, and pushing these communities towards a risk society. This is especially pronounced in the Yangtze River Delta, a region of peak urbanization. The stability and progress of these local societies are vital for the region's overall high-quality development. Yet, with ongoing urbanization, these areas face numerous challenges. To effectively tackle these issues, a robust system encompassing pre-evaluation, early warning, and emergency preparedness is essential. This study explores the relationships and structures among various risk factors using grounded theory analysis. Furthermore, it applies the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to develop a comprehensive risk early warning index system, significantly enhancing the response capabilities to public security challenges in the Yangtze River Delta's county-level societies.
Application of learning portfolio assessment model based on the OBE concept in clinical practice teaching: A controlled study
Authors: Zhang Li , Yang Guangyao , Yang Fen , Peng Yun , Guo Jing
Published: February 2024

Background
The reform of medical education evaluation currently focuses on implementing outcome-based education and process assessments. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of a learning portfolio assessment model based on the outcome-based education (OBE) concept in clinical practice.
Methods
This study employed a quasi-experimental research design. Undergraduate students pursuing an eight-year clinical program and enrolled in 2014 and 2015 cohorts who participated in the internship program from 2020 to 2022 were set as the control group (n = 53, using the traditional evaluation system) and the experimental group (n = 54, using the learning portfolio assessment based on the OBE concept), respectively. After clinical rotations concluded, evaluations included theoretical examinations in the core subjects of internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics, and pediatrics; the National Medical Licensing Examination (NMLE); and a satisfaction survey questionnaire on practical teaching effectiveness.
Results
The experimental group demonstrated superior performance in the theoretical end-of-rotation examinations and the NMLE compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The experimental group exhibited higher satisfaction with the internship through questionnaire, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
The learning portfolio assessment model based on the OBE concept enhanced the students’ clinical practical skills, overall clinical scores, and satisfaction with practical teaching.
Low muscle quality index is associated with increased risk of advanced fibrosis in adult patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: NHANES 2011-2014
Authors: Tantai Xinxing , Ran Qiuju , Wen Zhang , Tuo Shuyue , Liu Na , Dai Shejiao , Wang Jinhai , Qiao Chenyang
Published: February 2024

Muscle quality index (MQI) is a novel indicator reflecting the quality of skeletal muscles. The association between MQI and the development of advanced fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is unknown. We investigated the association of low MQI with advanced fibrosis among adults with NAFLD using a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population. Adults with NAFLD who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014 were included. Sex-specific standard was used to define low and extremely low MQI. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the association between MQI level and advanced fibrosis. In the study, 3,758 participants with NAFLD were included. The prevalence of low and extremely low MQI was 11.7% (95% CI: 10.4%-13.0%) and 2.2% (95% CI: 1.6%-2.8%), respectively. Among these participants, 96 were assessed to have advanced fibrosis. Individuals with low [(odds ratio (OR) 2.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22–4.91)] and extremely low MQI (OR 10.48, 95% CI 3.20–34.27) were associated with advanced fibrosis in multivariable analysis. A linear trend relationship was also observed between MQI level and the risk of advanced fibrosis (Ptrend = 0.001). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses yielded similar results to the main analyses. Decreased MQI is highly prevalent, and is associated with an increased risk of advanced fibrosis in adult US population with NAFLD.
Mental health competencies are stronger determinants of well-being than mental disorder symptoms in both psychiatric and non-clinical samples
Authors: Zábó Virág , Erát Dávid , Vargha András , Vincze Ágnes , Harangozó Judit , Iváncsics Máté , Farkas Judit , Balogh Gábor , Pongrácz Fanni , Bognár Judit , Nagy Enikő , Gonda Xenia , Purebl György
Published: February 2024

The present study aimed to investigate whether the strength of mental health capacities and the severity of mental disorder symptoms, and their interaction, differ in the strength of their associations with several dimensions of well-being in Hungarian adult psychiatric and non-clinical samples. All respondent in the psychiatric sample (129 patients (44 male, 85 female)) and in the non-clinical community sample (253 adults (43 male, 210 female)) completed the Mental Health Test, six measures of well-being and mental health, and the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised. Including both mental health competencies and mental disorder symptoms in a regression model in both samples can predict patients' well-being even more accurately. Mental health competencies were positively related; mental disorder symptoms were negatively related to subjective well-being. In all models and in both samples, mental health functioning was found to be a stronger determinant of well-being than mental disorder symptoms. The interaction of mental health competencies and mental disorders is no more predictive of well-being in either psychiatric or non-clinical samples than when the effects of each are considered separately. The assessment of mental health competencies has an important predictive value for well-being in the presence of psychopathological symptoms and/or mental disorders.