bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the analysis of murine neonatal ultrasonic vocalizations: Development, evaluation, and application of different mathematical models
Authors: Herdt Rudolf , Kinzel Louisa , Maaß Johann Georg , Walther Marvin , Fröhlich Henning , Schubert Tim , Maass Peter , Schaaf Christian Patrick
Published: October 2024

Rodents employ a broad spectrum of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) for social communication. As these vocalizations offer valuable insights into affective states, social interactions, and developmental stages of animals, various deep learning approaches have aimed at automating both the quantitative (detection) and qualitative (classification) analysis of USVs. So far, no notable efforts have been made to determine the most suitable architecture. We present the first systematic evaluation of different types of neural networks for USV classification. We assessed various feedforward networks, including a custom-built, fully-connected network, a custom-built convolutional neural network, several residual neural networks, an EfficientNet, and a Vision Transformer. Our analysis concluded that convolutional networks with residual connections specifically adapted to USV data, are the most suitable architecture for analyzing USVs. Paired with a refined, entropy-based detection algorithm (achieving recall of 94.9 % and precision of 99.3 %), the best architecture (achieving 86.79 % accuracy) was integrated into a fully automated pipeline capable of analyzing extensive USV datasets with high reliability. In ongoing projects, our pipeline has proven to be a valuable tool in studying neonatal USVs. By comparing these distinct deep learning architectures side by side, we have established a solid foundation for future research.
Advancing glider-based acoustic measurements of underwater-radiated ship noise
Authors: Helal Khaled Mohsen , von Oppeln-Bronikowski Nicolai , Moro Lorenzo
Published: October 2024

Ocean gliders are versatile and efficient passive acoustic monitoring platforms in remote marine environments, but few studies have examined their potential to monitor ship underwater noise. This study investigates a Slocum glider's capability to assess ship noise compared to the ability of fixed observers. Trials were conducted in shallow coastal inlets and deep bays in Newfoundland, Canada, using a glider, hydrophone array, and single-moored system. The study focused on (1) the glider's self-noise signature, (2) range-depth-dependent propagation loss (PL) models, and (3) identifying the location of the vessel to the glider using glider acoustic measurements. The primary contributors to the glider's self-noise were the buoyancy pump and rudder. The pitch-motor noise coincided with the buoyancy pump activation and did not contribute to the glider self-noise in our experiments. PL models showed that seafloor bathymetry and sound speed profiles significantly impacted estimates compared to models assuming flat and range-independent profiles. The glider's performance in recording ship noise was superior to that of other platforms. Using its hydrophones, the glider could identify the bearing from the vessel, although a third hydrophone would improve reliability and provide range. The findings demonstrate that gliders can characterize noise and enhance our understanding of ocean sound sources.
Decoding the dancing of the tongue: A model-based learning approach to phonetic targets in coarticulation
Authors: Wei Jianguo , Bai Guochen , Lu Wenhuan , Dang Jianwu
Published: October 2024

A model synthesizing average frequency components from select sentences in an electromagnetic articulography database has been crafted. This revealed the dual roles of the tongue: its dorsum acts like a carrier wave, and the tip acts as a modulation signal within the articulatory realm. This model illuminates anticipatory coarticulation's subtleties during speech planning. It undergoes rigorous, two-stage optimization: statistical estimation and refinement to depict carryover and anticipation. The model's base, rooted in physiological insights, deciphers carryover targets while its upper layer captures anticipation. Optimization has pinpointed unique phonetic targets for each phoneme, providing deep insights into virtual target formation during speech planning. These simulations, aligning closely with empirical data and marked by a mere 0.18 cm average error, along with extensive listening tests attest to the model's accuracy and enhanced speech synthesis quality.
Metagenome-assembled genome of
Pseudomonas
sp. from coenocytic alga
Vaucheria bursata
Authors: Laureano Gerardo , Bermudez Abdiel Esparra , Rivera Vicéns Ramón E. , Arun Alok
Published: October 2024

Here, we report a draft metagenome-assembled genome and annotation of
Pseudomonas
sp. obtained from the sequenced genome of
Vaucheria bursata
. The genome completeness was 97.9% with a total of 5,322 open reading frames, of which 3,147 genes were annotated. The availability of the metagenome will elucidate the possible epiphytic interactions of bacteria with
Vaucheria bursata
.
Complete genome sequence of polylactic acid degrading
Rhodopseudomonas palustris
strain R1 isolated from rice field soil
Authors: Ito Lala , Masui Mana , Galipon Josephine , Arakawa Kazuharu
Published: October 2024

Rhodopseudomonas palustris
R1 is a phototrophic, purple, non-sulfur Gram-negative bacterium first isolated from the soils of rice fields, known for its polylactic acid degradability. Here, we present the complete circular genome sequence of this bacterium, spanning 5.32 Mbp and 4,949 protein-coding sequences.
Analysis of factors influencing refractive error in Fuchs eyes undergoing Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty triple procedure
Authors: Kuo Jenny Chun Ling , Cho Kyong Jin , Ali Muhammad , Jun Albert S , Ladas John G , Srikumaran Divya
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the accuracy of current intraocular lens (IOL) formulas and identify factors influencing mean error in eyes undergoing Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) triple procedure, that is, DMEK combined with cataract extraction and IOL placement for concurrent Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) and cataracts.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Subjects

90 eyes with FECD undergoing uncomplicated DMEK triple procedure at Wilmer Eye Institute.

Methods

We analysed tomographic features of oedema, including loss of regular isopachs, displacement of the thinnest point of the cornea and the presence of posterior surface depression, and assessed the correlation with the prediction error.

Main outcome measures

We compared the mean error (±SD) for the Barrett Universal II (BU2), Hoffer QST, Haigis-L (HL) and Barrett True K (BTK) formulas and the percentage of eyes within 0.25, 0.5 and 1 diopter (D) of error.

Results

All formulas resulted in a mean hyperopic error, with the HL having the lowest mean error of 0.24 D (±0.97 D) and BU2 having the highest ME of 0.94 D (±0.97 D). For each additional tomographic feature of corneal oedema in the BU2 and Hoffer QST formulas, the mean hyperopic error increased by 0.38 D. For the BTK and HL formulas, the mean error increased by 0.35 D (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The number of tomographic features of oedema can be useful in identifying eyes with higher errors in IOL calculation when performing the DMEK triple procedure for FECD.
Effects of short-term, medium-term and long-term resistance exercise training on cardiometabolic health outcomes in adults: systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Ashton Ruth E , Tew Garry A , Aning Jonathan J , Gilbert Stephen E , Lewis Liane , Saxton John M
Published: October 2024

Objective

To examine the effects of short-term, medium-term and long-term resistance exercise training (RET) on measures of cardiometabolic health in adults.

Design

Intervention systematic review.

Data sources

MEDLINE and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to February 2018. The search strategy included the following keywords: resistance exercise, strength training and randomised controlled trial.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Randomised controlled trials published in English comparing RET≥2 weeks in duration with a non-exercising control or usual care group. Participants were non-athletic and aged ≥18 years.

Results

A total of 173 trials were included. Medium-term and long-term RET reduced systolic blood pressure (−4.02 (95% CI −5.92 to −2.11) mm Hg, p<0.0001 and −5.08 (−10.04 to –0.13) mm Hg, p=0.04, respectively) and diastolic blood pressure (−1.73 (−2.88 to –0.57) mm Hg, p=0.003 and −4.93 (−8.58 to –1.28) mm Hg, p=0.008, respectively) versus control. Medium-term RET elicited reductions in fasted insulin and insulin resistance (−0.59 (−0.97 to –0.21) µU/mL, p=0.002 and −1.22 (−2.29 to –0.15) µU/mL, p=0.02, respectively). The effects were greater in those with elevated cardiometabolic risk or disease compared with younger healthy adults. The quality of evidence was low or very low for all outcomes. There was limited evidence of adverse events.

Conclusions

RET may be effective for inducing improvements in cardio metabolic health outcomes in healthy adults and those with an adverse cardio metabolic risk profile.

PROSPERO registration number

NCT42016037946
.
Stories of chronic illness: exploring qualitative data through poetic transcriptions
Authors: Simmons Margaret , Carolus Gabriela , Kalla Mahima
Published: October 2024

As a research technique, poetic transcription transforms people’s stories and enables deeper analysis and engagement between participants, readers and researchers. Chronic illness is often characterised as a ‘biographical disruption’, which may threaten a patient’s self-identity and equanimity. Such disruptions often influence patients’ perceptions of imminent life changes, social relationships and cognitive and material resources. Thus, poetic transcription offers a valuable tool for making sense of complex illnesses and lived experiences. This paper demonstrates how raw interview data can be reconstructed into a poetic format to highlight the nuances of people’s lived illness experiences, which may remain elusive to them and others. A qualitative survey was conducted with a small group of patient participants, eliciting chronic illness narratives analysed through poetic transcription. Poetic transcription becomes a rigorous and legitimate qualitative research method through multiple iterations and extensive data engagement. Our main themes are focused on biographical disruption, temporality, humour, voice and ableism.
Reflections on the science and impact of Bent Herskind
Authors: Leoni S. , Maj A. , Riley M. A. , Simpson J. , Vigezzi E. , Wilson J. N.
Published: October 2024

Bent Herskind was a Gamma-Ray Grand Master, who helped trigger the modern revolution in $$\gamma $$
γ
-ray spectroscopy, opening the door to new vistas in nuclear structure physics. His story is a remarkable one and the contributions he made to the field in terms of its scientific richness and to the development of ever more powerful detector systems, were unique. The enthusiasm and excitement he put into everything were infectious and the brilliance of his insights was compelling. His legacy will live on, not only in the significant discoveries that he made, but also in the way he instilled his deep commitment to unravelling nature’s secrets in this quest and the pleasure of physics discovery with his close collaborators. This review article summarises his career and highlights some of his scientific achievements in which the authors had the privilege to collaborate with him.
Fermionic Casimir energy in Horava–Lifshitz scenario
Authors: de Mello E. R. Bezerra , Cruz M. B.
Published: October 2024

In this work, we investigate the violation of Lorentz symmetry through the Casimir effect, one of the most intriguing phenomena in modern physics. The Casimir effect, which represents a macroscopic quantum force between two neutral conducting surfaces, is widely regarded as a triumph of Quantum Field Theory. In this study, we present new results for the Casimir effect, focusing on the contribution of mass associated with fermionic quantum fields confined between two large parallel plates, in the context of Lorentz symmetry violation within the Horava–Lifshitz formalism. To calculate the Casimir energy and pressure, we impose a MIT bag boundary condition on the two plates, compatible with the higher-order derivative term in the modified Dirac equation. Our results reveal a strong influence of Lorentz violation on the Casimir effect. We observe that the Casimir energy is significantly affected, both in intensity and sign, potentially resulting in a repulsive or attractive force between the plates, depending on the critical exponent associated with the Horava–Lifshitz formalism.
An Entanglement-Aware Middleware for Digital Twins
Authors: Bellavista Paolo , Bicocchi Nicola , Fogli Mattia , Giannelli Carlo , Mamei Marco , Picone Marco
Published: October 2024

The development of the Digital Twin (DT) approach is tilting research from initial approaches that aim at promoting early adoption to sophisticated attempts to develop, deploy, and maintain applications based on DTs. In this context, we propose a highly dynamic and distributed ecosystem where containerized DTs co-evolve with an orchestration middleware. DTs provide digitalized representations of the targeted physical systems, while the orchestration middleware monitors and re-configures the deployed DTs in light of application constraints, available resources, and the quality of cyber-physical entanglement. First, we lay out the reference scenario. Then, we discuss the limitations of current approaches and identify a set of requirements that shape both DTs and the orchestration middleware. Subsequently, we describe a blueprint architecture that meets those requirements. Finally, we report empirical evidence on both the feasibility and the effectiveness of a proof-of-concept implementation of the proposed ecosystem.
A Survey on IoT Programming Platforms: A Business-Domain Experts Perspective
Authors: Hannou Fatma-Zohra , Lefrançois Maxime , Jouvelot Pierre , Charpenay Victor , Zimmermann Antoine
Published: October 2024

The vast growth and digitalization potential offered by the Internet of Things (IoT) is hindered by substantial barriers in accessibility, interoperability, and complexity, mainly affecting small organizations and non-technical entities. This survey article provides a detailed overview of the landscape of IoT programming platforms, focusing specifically on the development support they offer for varying end user profiles, ranging from developers with IoT expertise to business experts willing to take advantage of IoT solutions to automate their organization processes. The survey examines a range of IoT platforms, classified according to their programming approach between general-purpose programming solutions, model-driven programming, mashups, and end-user programming. Necessary IoT and programming backgrounds are described to empower non-technical readers with a comprehensive field summary. In addition, the article compares the features of the most representative platforms and provides decision insights and guidelines to support end users in selecting appropriate IoT platforms for their use cases. This work contributes to narrowing the knowledge gap between IoT specialists and end users, breaking accessibility barriers and further promoting the integration of IoT technologies in various domains.
1
GeoGail: A Model-Based Imitation Learning Framework for Human Trajectory Synthesizing
Authors: Wu Yuchen , Wang Huandong , Gao Changzheng , Jin Depeng , Li Yong
Published: October 2024

Synthesized human trajectories are crucial for a large number of applications. Existing solutions are mainly based on the generative adversarial network (GAN), which is limited due to the lack of modeling the human decision-making process. In this article, we propose a novel imitation learning-based method to synthesize human trajectories. This model utilizes a novel semantics-based interaction mechanism between the decision-making strategy and visitations to diverse geographical locations to model them in the semantic domain in a uniform manner. To augment the modeling ability to the real-world human decision-making policy, we propose a feature extraction model to extract the internal latent factors of variation of different individuals and then propose a novel self-attention-based policy net to capture the long-term correlation of mobility and decision-making patterns. Then, to better reward users’ mobility behavior, we propose a novel multi-scale reward net combined with mutual information to model the instant reward, long-term reward, and individual characteristics in a cohesive manner. Extensive experimental results on two real-world trajectory datasets show that our proposed model can synthesize the most high-quality trajectory data compared with six state-of-the-art baselines in terms of a number of key usability metrics and can well support practical applications based on trajectory data, demonstrating its effectiveness. Furthermore, our proposed method can learn explainable knowledge automatically from data, including explainable statistical features of trajectories and statistical relation between decision-making policy and features.
Management and Performance Program Chatbot: A Use Case of Large Language Model in the Federal Public Sector in Brazil
Authors: Kleiman Fernando , Barbosa Marcelo Mendes
Published: October 2024

Governments are facing the benefits and perils of recent developments in artificial intelligence. One key objective is using AI to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their public service provision. While academic research has examined these advances, there is a lack of empirical evidence regarding user experiences. This paper explores the initial results of using a chatbot based on a Large Language Model (LLM) to address user queries about the Management and Performance Program (PGD). Survey analysis demonstrated that ChatPGD is likely to reduce program-related response time and increase effectiveness. However, the initial tests indicated a need to refine response algorithms to detect and mitigate potential biases and to strengthen the system infrastructure to support new enhancements. This paper examines the chatbot's application in harnessing government databases, highlighting the potential benefits, challenges, and perspectives of embedding AI and LLMs in public service delivery. The insights can support the development of other public service LLMs.
Advanced Electrochemical Detection of 2,4-dichlorophenol in Water with Molecularly Imprinted Chitosan Stabilized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Ann Maria C. G. , Varghese Anitha , Nidhin M.
Published: October 2024

2,4-Dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) is a hazardous chemical that can be passed down to offspring. Because 2,4-DCP degrades slowly and can be passed down to future generations, it’s a pesticide that needs to be continuously monitored and managed. With the use of chitosan-stabilized AuNPs on a glassy carbon electrode and the molecular imprinting technique, an effective electrochemical sensor has been built for the selective determination of 2,4-DCP in different aqueous samples. The analyte’s electroactive surface area and number of interaction sites are both increased by the AuNPs. The formulated AuNPs were characterized using several material characterization techniques. Molecularly imprinted nanomaterials provided the selectivity against other interfering chlorophenols. With a detection limit of 6.33 nM and a broad linear dynamic range of 21.09 to 310 nM, 2,4-DCP was found using differential pulse voltammetry. Without interference from structural analogs, the sensor was effectively evaluated in a variety of contaminated water samples.
Macrophage SPAK deletion limits a low potassium-induced kidney inflammatory program
Authors: Wu Aihua , Zhang Yahua , Bock Fabian , Arroyo Juan Pablo , Delpire Eric , Zhang Ming-Zhi , Harris Raymond C. , Terker Andrew S.
Published: October 2024

Global Ste20p-related proline alanine-rich kinase (SPAK) deletion protects against harmful kidney effects of dietary K+ deficiency. Exposure to low K+ conditions increases SPAK phosphorylation and induces SPAK to adopt a punctate staining pattern. Macrophage-specific deletion of SPAK confers protection to low K+-induced kidney injury in vivo. Macrophage-expressed SPAK plays a key role in the development of kidney injury in response to a low K+ diet.
Identification of natriuretic peptide receptor A-related gene expression signatures in podocytes in vivo reveals baseline control of protective pathways
Authors: Jensen Mia , Heinl Elena-Sofia , Federlein Anna , Schwartz Uwe , Lund Lars , Madsen Kirsten , Jensen Boye L. , Schweda Frank
Published: October 2024

A combination of fluorescence-activated cell sorting and RNA sequencing identified 158 changed gene products in adult mouse kidneys with and without podocyte-specific deletion of the natriuretic peptide receptor A. Downregulated products included protein S and semaphorin 3G, both with proven renoprotective impact, whereas upregulated products were related to mobility of podocytes. Protein S was produced and released from human and murine isolated glomeruli, and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) led to decreased migration of podocytes.
Frequent Seronegative Primary Hypothyroidism in Myxedema Coma in Japan: Three Case Reports With a Systematic Review
Authors: Okuno Yosuke , Mukai Kosuke , Tamura Yuri , Hayakawa Tomoaki , Fukuhara Atsunori , Shimomura Iichiro
Published: October 2024

Myxedema coma is a rare life‐threatening form of hypothyroidism that manifests as neuropsychiatric, metabolic, respiratory, and cardiovascular dysfunction. From 2010 to 2022, our hospital managed three cases of myxedema coma. While the overall characteristics of these cases were similar to those in previous reports, we noticed that all cases were negative for thyroid autoantibodies and an autopsy in one of the cases exhibited end‐stage thyroiditis. During a systematic review of cases from 1999 to 2022, we also noticed that a significant proportion of myxedema coma was caused by seronegative primary hypothyroidism especially in Japan.
A Single Pelvic Fibrous Tumor Associated With Doege–Potter Syndrome: A Case Study
Authors: Mao Wangjia , Sun Yuefang , Yan Shan , Gao Yuan , Bu Le , Cheng Xiaoyun
Published: October 2024

Doege–Potter syndrome (DPS) is a very rare paraneoplastic condition that is marked by hypoglycemia brought on by a solitary fibrous tumor rather than an islet cell tumor. Soft tissue neoplasms termed as solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) are rare and these tumors vary in the site of origin, from the pleural cavity, mediastinum, pericardium, retroperitoneal spaces, liver, thyroid, orbit, bladder, intestines, and soft tissues, while pelvic‐derived fibrous tumors are incredibly unusual. There are currently extremely few documented cases and literature reviews both domestically and internationally. In this case study, we present an 82‐year‐old woman who developed DPS as a result of malignant pelvic SFTs. Her hypoglycemia was clinically healed after she underwent laparoscopic retroperitoneal tumor resection in our institution, and thereafter, her quality of life improved.
The Impact of Short‐Term Supplementation With Guanidinoacetic Acid and Creatine Versus Creatine Alone on Body Composition Indices in Healthy Men and Women: Creatine‐Guanidinoacetic Acid Affects Body Composition
Authors: Baltic Sonja , Nedeljkovic David , Todorovic Nikola , Ratgeber Laszlo , Betlehem Jozsef , Acs Pongrac , Stajer Valdemar , Ostojic Sergej M.
Published: October 2024

The main objective of this pilot study was to compare the effects of short‐term supplementation with a mixture containing creatine and guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) versus creatine alone on body composition indices in men and women. Twenty‐three apparently healthy young adults (mean age: 21.4 ± 0.6 years; 10 females) were randomly assigned to receive either a mixture (consisting of 2 g of creatine monohydrate and 2 g of GAA) or an equimolar amount of creatine monohydrate in a pretest–posttest control group experimental crossover design. After the intervention period, participants entered a 2‐week washout phase to minimize any residual effects of the treatment. Body composition was assessed using a multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis at baseline (preadministration) and at the 7‐day follow‐up (postadministration). A significant interaction effect was found for extracellular mass (p = 0.009), with creatine–GAA outperforming creatine in augmenting extracellular mass across the whole sample. In the male subsample, creatine was superior to the mixture in increasing intracellular water (p = 0.049), whereas the mixture increased extracellular mass, contrasting with the reduction observed with creatine alone (p = 0.008). No significant differences between interventions were reported in the female subsample (p > 0.05), indicating that adding GAA to creatine may produce unique, sex‐specific effects on body composition. Further studies are needed to validate our findings across different demographic cohorts and various interventional regimens.
Displacement Measurement and 3D Reconstruction of Segmental Retaining Wall Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks and Binocular Stereovision
Authors: Pham Minh-Vuong , Kim Yun-Tae , Ha Yong-Soo
Published: October 2024

Computer vision techniques were employed to monitor the displacement of retaining walls using artificial markers, traditional feature detection algorithms, and photogrammetry‐based point cloud reconstruction. However, the use of artificial markers often increases both installation time and costs, whereas the performance of traditional feature matching is affected by uneven illumination, and photogrammetry techniques require multiple images for point cloud reconstruction. To overcome these limitations, a nontarget‐based displacement monitoring method for segmental retaining walls (SRWs) using a combination of deep learning and stereovision was proposed. Binocular stereovision was employed to reconstruct the geometry and surface properties of the SRW in a digital three‐dimensional (3D) model. Deep learning models were then used to extract natural features from SRW blocks, enabling displacement calculation without using artificial targets. The performance was evaluated by monitoring the behaviors of SRW experiments at both laboratory and field scales. The deep learning–based image segmentation models identified SRW block features in the experiment and real case datasets with an average F1 score from 0.910 to 0.965 under various environmental conditions. The reconstructed results of point cloud coordinates demonstrated high accuracy, ranging from 95.2% to 98.6%. Furthermore, the calculated displacement exhibited a high degree of agreement with the measured displacement. The accuracy of the calculated displacements for the laboratory and field experiments ranged from 89.5% to 99.1%. The proposed method can be used for automatic SRW displacement monitoring.
Supplementary Fig. 6 from Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor δ Suppresses the Cytotoxicity of CD8+ T Cells by Inhibiting RelA DNA-Binding Activity
Authors: Cen Bo , Wei Jie , Wang Dingzhi , DuBois Raymond N.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Fig. 6 shows the densitometric analysis of western blot results presented in Fig. 5.
Supplementary Fig. 1 from Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor δ Suppresses the Cytotoxicity of CD8+ T Cells by Inhibiting RelA DNA-Binding Activity
Authors: Cen Bo , Wei Jie , Wang Dingzhi , DuBois Raymond N.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Fig. 1 shows PPARδ inhibits CD8+ T cell cytolytic activity.
Figure 5 from Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor δ Suppresses the Cytotoxicity of CD8+ T Cells by Inhibiting RelA DNA-Binding Activity
Authors: Cen Bo , Wei Jie , Wang Dingzhi , DuBois Raymond N.
Published: October 2024

RelA, IFNγ, and granzyme B are critical for CTL cytolytic activity. A, Western blot expression of indicated proteins in human CTLs transfected with a plasmid expressing RelA or PPARδ and ELISA expression of IFNγ in the culture media of the CTLs. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. B, The cytotoxicity of human CTLs (18-hour incubation, left) and Western blot expression of indicated proteins in HCT116 cells (2-hour incubation, right) after the CTLs transfected with plasmid expressing PPARδ or human RelA were incubated with HCT116 cells. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. C, Western blot expression of indicated proteins in Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs transfected with a control siRNA (si C) or siRNA targeting RelA (si RelA) and ELISA expression of IFNγ in the culture media of the CTLs. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. D, The cytotoxicity of Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs (18-hour incubation, left) and Western blot expression of indicated proteins in HCT116 cells (2-hour incubation, right) after Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− CTLs transfected with a control siRNA (si C) or siRNA targeting RelA (si RelA) were incubated with HCT116 cells. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. E, The cytotoxicity of human CTLs (18-hour incubation, left) and Western blot expression of indicated proteins in HCT116 cells (2-hour incubation, right) after the CTLs treated with a control antibody (Ig G) or antibody against IFNγ (α-IFNγ), or granzyme B (α-GZMB), or the combination of the two antibodies were incubated with HCT116 cells. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.02. F, A hypothetical model of PPARδ interactions with RelA in the nucleus of CTLs. C-PARP, cleaved PARP; C-caspase 3, cleaved caspase 3; C-caspase 7, cleaved caspase 7.
Figure 2 from Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor δ Suppresses the Cytotoxicity of CD8+ T Cells by Inhibiting RelA DNA-Binding Activity
Authors: Cen Bo , Wei Jie , Wang Dingzhi , DuBois Raymond N.
Published: October 2024

PPARδ negatively regulates the expression of perforin, granzyme B, and IFNγ. A, Western blot expression of PPARδ in naive, activated, and cytotoxic murine or human CD8+ T cells. B, Western blot expression of indicated proteins in Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs from two groups (two mice for each phenotype in a group) of mice and ELISA expression of IFNγ in the culture media of the CTLs. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. **, P < 0.02. C, Western blot expression of indicated proteins in Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs transfected with a plasmid expressing GFP or human PPARδ and ELISA expression of IFNγ in the culture media of the CTLs. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. D, Western blot expression of indicated proteins in Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs treated with 1 μmol/L GW501516 (GW) and ELISA expression of IFNγ in the culture media of GW501516-treated CTLs. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.02. E, Western blot expression of indicated proteins in human CTLs transfected with either two different PPARδ siRNAs or a plasmid expressing human PPARδ and ELISA expression of IFNγ in the culture media of the CTLs. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. F, The mRNA levels of indicated genes in the Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs were measured by real-time PCR. mRNA levels of the Ppard+/+ sample are assigned a value of 1. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. G, The mRNA levels of indicated genes in human CTLs treated with two different PPARδ siRNAs were measured by real-time PCR. mRNA levels of CTLs treated with the s iC are assigned a value of 1. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.02. H, The mRNA levels of indicated genes in human CTLs transfected with a plasmid expressing GFP or human PPARδ were measured by real-time PCR. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. Unpaired Student t test was used for statistics. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.02.
Figure 1 from Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor δ Suppresses the Cytotoxicity of CD8+ T Cells by Inhibiting RelA DNA-Binding Activity
Authors: Cen Bo , Wei Jie , Wang Dingzhi , DuBois Raymond N.
Published: October 2024

PPARδ inhibits CD8+ T-cell activation in vivo and cytolytic activity in vitro. A, Proliferation of CFSE-labeled CD8+ T cells from small intestine tumors and adjacent normal tissues in control and GW501516-treated mice. B, Percentage of IFNγ-expressing CD8+ T cells in small intestine tumor-specific and adjacent normal in control and GW501516-treated mice by flow cytometry. C, Number of small intestine tumors in different size groups in control and GW501516-treated mice. For A–C, the results were obtained from two independent experiments using three mice for each group in each experiment. D, The cytotoxicity of Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs (18-hour incubation, left) and Western blot expression of indicated proteins in mouse colorectal cancer cell lines CT26 and MC38 cells (2-hour incubation, right) after CTLs were incubated with colorectal cancer cells. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. E, The cytotoxicity of Ppard+/+ and Ppard−/− murine CTLs (18-hour incubation, left) and Western blot expression of indicated proteins in CT26 cells (2-hour incubation, right) after CTLs transfected with plasmid expressing GFP or human PPARδ were incubated with CT26 cells. Data (mean ± SD) represent three independent experiments with similar results. *, P < 0.05. C-PARP, cleaved PARP; C-caspase 3, cleaved caspase 3; C-caspase 7, cleaved caspase 7.
Ectopic ACTH-Dependent Cushing’s Syndrome Emerging at a Late Stage of a Mixed Histology Neuroendocrine Neoplasm: A Case Report
Authors: Meyers Michel , Awada Ahmad , Karfis Ioannis , t'Kint de Roodenbeke Daphné , Couvert Hugo , Hanssens Charlotte , Hendlisz Alain , Driessens Natacha
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Neuroendocrine neoplasms encompass well-differentiated tumors (NETs) and poorly differentiated carcinomas (neuroendocrine carcinomas [NECs]), which are distinguished by their clinical behavior and molecular characteristics. They can cause paraneoplastic syndromes, such as ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-dependent Cushing’s syndrome (CS), necessitating prompt recognition and management due to severe hypercortisolism. Case Presentation: A 66-year-old patient with a 3-year history of metastatic mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasm with a NEC and adenocarcinoma component originating from the vulva presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and fatigue. Upon clinical examination, we found widespread hyperpigmentation, a moon-face appearance, hirsutism, buffalo hump, and muscle atrophy. Laboratory investigations revealed severe hypokalemia (2.3 mmol/L), elevated serum cortisol (1,726 nmol/L) and ACTH (194 ng/L) levels. Urinary free cortisol measurement was 21-fold the upper limit of the reference range (3,614.0 nmol/24 h), and cortisol concentration did not decrease after 1mg-dexamethasone suppression test (1,812 nmol/L for an expected value <50 nmol/L), confirming the ACTH-dependent CS. Thoracoabdominal computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated progressive neoplastic disease in the liver, kidney, lymph nodes, peritoneum, and lungs. Brain magnetic resonance imaging indicated multifocal metastatic infiltration but no evidence of pituitary adenoma. Interestingly, despite a previously negative 68Ga-DOTATATE positron emission tomography (PET)/CT performed 1 year prior, there was moderate somatostatin receptor (SSTR) expression in lymphatic, pulmonary, peritoneal, and bone tissues, suggesting the presence of a component with redifferentiation and re-expression of the SSTR. After the workup, the patient was admitted to a supportive care facility. Hypercortisolism symptoms were effectively managed with an adrenal enzyme inhibitor (ketoconazole) in combination with somatostatin analogs. Unfortunately, the patient was too frail to benefit from peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). Conclusion: This redifferentiation phenomenon in neuroendocrine tumors should be further investigated as patients might be, under certain conditions, eligible for PRRT. Therefore, we suggest that newly occurring paraneoplastic syndromes in patients with NEC should always be evaluated using 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT.
Does the Diagnostic Performance of the Pathologist on the Indeterminate Categories of the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology Vary between Pediatric and Adult Patients?
Authors: Önder Sevgen , Kurtulan Olcay , Sokmensuer Cenk , Guler Gaye , Orhan Diclehan
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The objectives of this study were to investigate the variation in the use of indeterminate categories of The Bethesda System for reporting thyroid cytopathology across age groups, particularly focusing on atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) category, and discern the potential role of a bias in pathologist’s interpretation when dealing with pediatric patients. Materials and Methods: To highlight a more refined diagnostic pattern, thyroid fine-needle aspirations reported by a single pathologist over a span of 10 years enrolled to the study. A total of 8,827 cases from patients aged between 2 and 89 were categorized for each decades of ages. For the AUS category, AUS to malignant (AUS:M) ratio was calculated, and variations in distinct age groups and across the years were noted. Results: The rate of indeterminate categories was 19% for the pediatric cases and 11% for the adults. When compared to adults, AUS diagnosis was more common in pediatric patients (14% vs. 9%), with rates of malignancy (ROMs) 54% and 45%, respectively. The AUS:M ratio during the study period ranged between 0.5 and 2.3 (mean 1.4). AUS:M ratio was highest in children below the age 11. Among AUS subtypes, AUS-nuclear predominated in both age groups, and papillary thyroid carcinoma emerged as the most common malignancy after resection. Follicular neoplasia category was higher in pediatric patients than in adults (4% vs. 1%), with similar ROMs (29% vs. 32%). Conclusion: Indeterminate cytology diagnosis and subsequent ROM is higher in pediatric patients, which might be attributable to a slightly higher use of AUS diagnosis in the youngest children.
Associations between Cooking Methods and Socio-Demographic, Dietary, and Anthropometric Factors: Results from the Cross-Sectional Swiss National Nutrition Survey
Authors: Mayén Ana-Lucia , Marques-Vidal Pedro
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Appropriate cooking methods can improve food safety, decrease contaminants, and increase nutrient bioavailability. Few studies assessed the sociodemographic characterization of their use in European populations. We aimed to characterize the socio-demographic, lifestyle, and anthropometric predictors of cooking methods in the Swiss population. Methods: Adults aged 18–75 years (n = 2,050) participating in the cross-sectional national nutrition survey in Switzerland (menuCH) (2014–2015), representing the 7 main regions in the country. We used logistic regressions to assess the probability of the presence or absence of boiled, roasted, microwaved, oven-cooked, gratinated, fried, steamed, and grilled foods by sociodemographic variables. Results: Among all participants, the most frequently used cooking methods were boiling (46%), stove-cooking (19%), and steaming (8%). Single participants had a higher probability of consuming grilled or fried foods (68%) than their married counterparts and participants with obesity had a higher probability of consuming grilled or fried foods (67% or 135%) compared to those with normal weight. Divorced or separated participants had a 55% lower probability of consuming roasted foods than married participants. Those following a diet had a 57% lower probability of consuming grilled foods compared to those not on a diet. Conclusion: We found differences in the distribution of cooking methods in the Swiss population by sociodemographic variables. Further studies should examine the link between cooking methods and disease risk.
Effect of unconventional waters irrigation on some morphological and physiological parameters of barley
Authors: Fellah Sihem , Ababsa Nawal , Atmani-Merabet Ghania , Sadouki Asma
Published: October 2024

A test on a variety of barley “Fouara” was carried out to verify the effects of treated wastewater on some physio-morphological parameters of this plant. Two different types of irrigation were chosen, one using treated wastewater from the Ain Beida wastewater treatment plant, and the other, ordinary water serving as a control. The physicochemical results of the treated wastewater showed, in particular, the EC, NH4, NO3 and the DCO/DB05 ratio do not exceed the admissible standards when they reach their maximum values The physio-morphological parameters of barley respond positively to the use of this water; represented by the two averages of the 'sugar' parameter which shows a clear difference depending on the water category (T and S) or the control individuals express an average (0.055) significantly lower than that of the S individuals (0.847). We note that significant values of the positive correlation coefficient of r=0.812 between the two parameters TRE and SF, therefore there is an association between these two factors. But negative for the TRE and PSF (r = -0.722). This means that the values of the two parameters do not evolve in the same direction. The factors 'sugar' and 'chlorophyll b' present the best correlation, they better represent the six individuals and the proline contents are higher in the treated plants.
Triticum durum productivity and adaptability of two genotypes under water deficit in Algerian high plains
Authors: Belguendouz Amina , Sahnoune Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Over the past few decades, Algeria has experienced a significant decline in rainfall patterns, which has been exacerbated by increasing hot spells leading to elevated rates of evapotranspiration. This combination of factors has induced severe water stress, critically impacting agricultural productivity, particularly in cereal production. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, our study was conducted over two consecutive cropping seasons at the experimental agricultural site of Ibn Khaldoun University in Tiaret, located in the western region of Algeria. We specifically investigated the performance of two durum wheat cultivars, ACSAD 297 and CTA 159, under conditions of water stress typical of the Algerian high plains. Our research focused on the impacts of water deficits during the grain filling phase, assessing their effects on seed formation, seed quality, and overall yield development. The results highlighted that contributions from various plant components to grain filling were notably affected by water availability, with lower leaves contributing 22%, the flag leaf 15%, the ear 14%, the ear neck 10%, and awns less than 1%. Notably, the ACSAD 297 cultivar exhibited superior drought tolerance compared to CTA 159, indicating its potential for cultivation in arid conditions. Furthermore, we established strong correlations between grain diameter, thousand grain weight, and stem height, which could inform future breeding initiatives. These findings not only provide important targets for enhancing drought resistance in durum wheat but also have broader implications for improving wheat productivity in semi-arid regions around the world, contributing to food security in the face of climate change.
Síndrome da encefalopatia posterior reversível associada à transfusão em anemia falciforme: relato de caso
Authors: Franco Igor de Assis , Rodrigues Daniela Oliveira Werneck , Santos Isabela Lima dos , Magalhães Nathalia Noyma Sampaio
Published: October 2024

Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA) is the most common genetic disease in the world, characterized by frequent vaso-occlusive crises that, along with extensive pathophysiology, predispose individuals to neurological events such as Stroke. Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES), on the other hand, is an uncommon manifestation resulting from vasogenic edema whose pathogenesis is not completely understood. Individuals with hemoglobinopathies have a higher chance of developing PRES; however, there are few reports in the literature on the occurrence of PRES related to SCA. The aim of the study is to report a case in which red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) was followed by PRES in a child with SCA. This is a longitudinal single-arm study with systematic research in major databases using the PICO strategy to associate the three events (SCA, RBC, PRES) with their appropriate medical descriptors. The present study evidenced most findings described in the scientific literature, reinforcing the need to expand knowledge of PRES as a differential diagnosis of neurological events in hemoglobinopathies in order to improve healthcare quality and reduce morbidity and mortality in these individuals
O problema do fóssil
Authors: Tort Paulliny
Published: October 2024

Conto de Paulliny Tort.
Muscle Mass and Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists: Adaptive or Maladaptive Response to Weight Loss?
Authors: Linge Jennifer , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Neeland Ian J.
Published: October 2024

Recent studies have shown that pharmacologic weight loss with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and combination therapies is approaching magnitudes achieved with surgery. However, as more weight loss is achieved, there is concern for potential adverse effects on muscle quantity, composition, and function. This primer aims to address whether muscle-related changes associated with weight loss treatments such as GLP-1 RAs may be maladaptive (ie, adversely affecting muscle health or function), adaptive (ie, a physiologic response to weight loss maintaining or minimally affecting muscle health or function), or perhaps an enhanced response to weight loss (ie, improved muscle health or function after treatment). Based on contemporary evidence with the addition of studies using magnetic resonance imaging, skeletal muscle changes with GLP-1 RA treatments appear to be adaptive: changes in muscle volume z-score indicate a change in muscle volume that is commensurate with what is expected given aging, disease status, and weight loss achieved, and the improvement in insulin sensitivity and muscle fat infiltration likely contributes to an adaptive process with improved muscle quality, lowering the probability for loss in strength and function. Nevertheless, factors such as older age and prefrailty may influence the selection of appropriate candidates for these therapies because of risk for sarcopenia. Several pharmacologic treatments to maintain or improve muscle mass designed in combination with GLP-1–based therapies are under development. For future development of GLP-1–based therapies (and other therapies) designed for weight loss, as well as for patient-centered treatment optimization, the introduction of more objective and comprehensive ways of assessing muscle health (including accurate and meaningful assessments of muscle quantity, composition, function, mobility, and strength) is important for the substantial numbers of patients who will likely be taking these medications well into the future.