Basal Part Research Articles

Predictive value of cardiac 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography for fatal ventricular arrhythmic events in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis

Abstract Background Patients with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) face an elevated risk of fatal ventricular arrhythmic events (FVAE), including sudden cardiac death. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) from contrast-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance is used for diagnosis of CS and estimation of FVAE risk. However, its application is limited in cases with cardiac devices, renal failure or contrast agent allergies. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) emerges as a diagnostic tool for CS, even in cases where LGE is not feasible. Purpose This study aimed to investigate the potential utility of FDG-PET in predicting FVAE in patients with CS by hypothesizing that higher or lower percent FDG uptake could predict the FVAE risk. Methods Cardiac FDG-PET data from 121 patients with CS, acquired at our university hospital between March 2008 and November 2020, were analyzed. A polar-map model was used to calculate percent uptake relative to maximal cardiac FDG uptake in each of the American Heart Association (AHA) 17 segments (Figure A). Percent uptakes of the AHA 17 segments were compared between groups with and without future FVAE. LGE information was available in 82 patients and was used to assess the presence of LGE in regions where percent FDG uptake differed between the two groups. Results Among enrolled patients (mean age 59.5 ± 10.0 years, 67.8% women), 43 experienced FVAE following FDG-PET image acquisition. The group with future FVAE had a higher history of FVAE (7.7% vs. 37.2%) and beta-blocker administration (38.5% vs. 60.5%), larger left ventricular diastolic diameter (LVDd) (49.3 ± 7.3 mm vs. 57.4 ± 9.5 mm) and lower ejection fraction (LVEF) (56.6 ± 13.6% vs. 42.0 ± 15.2%) compared to the group without it (P < 0.05 all). Percent FDG uptake in the basal interventricular septum part (segment 3) (Figure A) was lower in patients with future FVAE compared to those without it (54.4 ± 13.8% vs. 41.8 ± 15.2%, P < 0.001 corrected for multiple comparisons). Kaplan-Meier analysis with a median split of percent FDG uptake in segment 3 showed that patients with lower uptake (<49%, N= 62) had lower FVAE-free survival compared to those with higher uptake (≥49%, N = 59) (P = 0.007) (Figure B). A Cox hazard model also demonstrated an association between percent FDG uptake in segment 3 and FVAE onset (hazard ratio 0.972 [95% CI 0.951, 0.995], P = 0.015) after adjusting for previous FVAE, beta-blocker administration, LVDd and LVEF. Similarly, analysis within the subgroup with LGE in the septum (N = 58) revealed a higher risk of FVAE in the group with lower percent FDG uptake compared to those with higher uptake (P = 0.020) (Figure C(a)). However, this association was not evident in patients without LGE in the septum (N = 24) (P = 0.821) (Figure C(b)). Conclusions Reduced percent FDG uptake with LGE in the basal intraventricular septum may serve as a valuable predictor of future FVAE occurrence in patients with CS.

Regional distribution of diffuse fibrosis in the basal and mid-ventricular AHA segments in patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract Introduction Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) research including from our research group, has documented that patients (pts.) with type 2 diabetes (DM2) even without symptoms exhibit subtle to moderately increased myocardial extracellular volume (ECV). ECV is an imaging biomarker of diffuse fibrosis. Also, our prior research has revealed a prevalence of approx. 10% for non-ischemic late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Intriguingly, these LGE lesions manifested in a distinct pattern, situated in the basal lateral or infero-lateral positions. We postulate that these lesions may represent the end-stage of severe diffuse fibrosis, potentially influenced by factors such as increased shear wall stress. Purpose To investigate if pts. with DM2 with known high global ECV had higher regional ECV in the basal and lateral or infero-lateral AHA segments compared to other segments. Method A case-control study of 20 healthy controls, 20 pts. with DM2 with low ECV (ECV<28%), 20 pts. with DM2 with high ECV (ECV>29%), and 20 pts. with DM2 with non-ischemic LGE (LGE+). Pts. were identified from a cross-sectional cohort of pts. with DM2. All subjects underwent physical examination and extensive CMR with T1 mapping before and after gadolinium contrast, and myocardial perfusion at rest and during adenosine stress. The regional ECV values for the basal and the mid-ventricular short axis slide were analysed using the AHA segments model: segments 1 to 12. Results All groups (grp.) had comparable age and sex distribution. In the DM2 grp. there was a difference between the no. of pts. with DM2 duration >10 years (low ECV 11(55%), high ECV 12(60%), LGE+ 16(80%), however statistically significant. Global ECV were: Controls (mean±sd) 26.7±1.6%, Low ECV 26.3±1.4%, High ECV 32.0±2.9%, LGE+ 29.5±2.6%, p<0.001. Control subjects had regional ECV between 24.4±2% to 27.3±2% (p<0.001), highest values in the septum. The DM2 grp. with low ECV had regional ECV values of 24.5±3% to 29.2±4%, highest values in the basal inferior and septal parts (segments 2-4). The high ECV grp. had regional ECV values between 28.3±4% and 35.3±6 % with very high values in the basal and the mid-ventricular septum, inferior, and inferolateral part (segments 2-5 and 8-11). The DM2 group LGE+ had values between 26.6±3% and 34.5±7%, highest values in the basal slice in the septum, inferior, and infero-lateral parts (segments 2-5). We found no significant difference in the regional myocardial perfusion reserve index. Conclusion This evidence indicates that diffuse fibrosis in DM2 cardiomyopathy tends to concentrate in the septum and inferolateral regions. However, among pts. with non-ischemic LGE lesions, we observed normal ECV in the anterior segments, in contrast to the high ECV group where all segments exceeded normal levels, albeit with notable regional variations. Subsequent investigations should prioritize uncovering the underlying reasons for this specific regional distribution of diffuse fibrosis.AHA segments 1-12 mapsAHA segments 1-12 maps

Pre‐Vegetation Mixed (Wave‐Tide) Energy Trangressive Nearshore Sedimentation: Evidence From the Proterozoic Passive Margin Sequence of NW Himalaya, India

ABSTRACTThe coupled evolution of the Earth's atmosphere–biosphere system through time has caused irreversible changes in the geodynamics as well as surface processes and sedimentation patterns. One such significant change took place in sedimentation in the Palaeozoic (i.e., Silurian) by the appearance of vascular vegetation. While the impact of evolving vegetation on the terrestrial fluvial environment has been relatively well documented, vegetation‐induced effects down the system in marginal or nearshore marine settings have undergone little study. The Meso‐ to Neoproterozoic Rautgara Formation exposed in the Himalayan Orogenic Belt of NW India, offers a chance to study a well‐preserved fluvial–marine transition to nearshore sedimentation before the appearance of vascular vegetation. A detailed sedimentological analysis identifies six genetically linked facies associations (FA) probably deposited in barrier, back‐barrier, and subtidal deltaic environments. Contrary to the other transgressive barrier models (where beach‐barrier overlie the back barrier environments), in the present case, wave‐dominated barrier deposits mostly occupy the basal part of the stratigraphy. In the middle stratigraphic level, back‐barrier deposits lack thick mud flats and show a dominance of sandstone over mudstone. Stacked subtidal sand bar facies association represents the top part of the sequence. Two sequence stratigraphic surfaces, that is, subaerial unconformity and maximum flooding surface, have been identified and the whole succession is interpreted in terms of HST and TST. Barrier and back‐barrier sediments are deposited during HST and TST, respectively. Subtidal deltaic system developed in late TST. The lack of frequent interbedding between the barrier and back‐barrier facies indicates negligible landward migration of the barrier and demonstrates system stability. The barrier system might have resulted from vertical aggradations akin to modern vegetated systems. The study portrays that sandy barrier systems are common in the Proterozoic. Vegetation and thick mud flats are not always essential for the stability of a barrier‐beach system.

Gross Anatomical, Histological, Histochemical and Scanning Electron Microscopic Examination of Glandular Stomach of Chinese Goose (Anser cygnoides)

Background: The digestive system is responsible for the intake, conversion and absorption of nutrients and the elimination of wastes from the body in order to provide the necessary energy for the continuation of vitality and functions. The aim of this study was to examine the glandular stomach of the Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides) by histological, histochemical and scanning electron microscopic methods. Methods: The glandular stomachs of 12 (6 males and 6 females) healthy adult Chinese geese (Anser cygnoides) were used in the study. The tissues taken were subjected to routine histological procedures. Result: Gross anatomically, it was seen that the Proventriculus was a fusiform or spindle-shaped organ, extending along the median plane between the esophagus and the muscular stomach. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) observations revealed that the glandular stomach surface of Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides) contained many mucosal folds. Parallel grooves and proventricular gland openings were observed between these folds. Histologically, it was observed that the glandular stomach wall of Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides) consisted of four layers: tunica mucosa, submucosa, tunica muscularis and tunica serosa. The tunica mucosa was observed to have lamina epithelialis, lamina propria and lamina muscularis sublayers. Single layer prismatic cells secreting mucus were found in the lamina epithelialis layer. These cells showed local Alcian Blue (AB) pH:2,5 positive reaction. Lamina muscularis consisted of longitudinal smooth muscle fiber bundles. Compound, branched tubular glands were observed in the submucosal layer. Again, a regional AB positive reaction was observed in the lumen-facing parts of the tubular glands. Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) positive reaction was noted in the basal parts of the tubular glands. In Gordon-Sweet (GS) staining method, reticular threads easily distinguished in all areas where connective tissue present.

Effect of Age on Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions at Extended High Frequencies.

The inner ear is most susceptible to the aging effects. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) are a good indicator for interpreting the age effects but are usually recorded at up to 8000 Hz frequencies in routine audiologic testing. The present study was designed to assess and compare the DPOAEs at conventional frequencies and at extended high frequencies (EHFs) across different age groups. Extended high-frequency audiometry (9000-16000 Hz) and DPOAEs from 500-16000 Hz were recorded on 80 adult (160 ears) participants (15-55 years) with normal hearing sensitivity. The participants were categorized into 4 groups: group I (15-<25 years), group II (25-<35 years), group III (35-<45 years), and group IV (45-55 years). A statistically significant reduction in EHF thresholds was observed from group III onward. However, the thresholds were comparatively better for group III at frequencies 9000, 10000, and 11500Hz than group IV. No significant difference was observed for EHF DPOAEs in groups I and II (except at 16000 Hz) and III and IV. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions at conventional frequencies in group IV were significantly poorer than the other 3 groups. A weak negative correlation was observed between the DPOAE parameters and EHF thresholds. The effect of age was more pronounced on EHF DPOAEs than EHF thresholds for frequencies 9000, 10000, and 11500 Hz. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions at EHF started deteriorating below the age of 30 years and showed a rapid decline above 35 years. Extended high-frequency DPOAEs can be used as screening tools to assess the function of the basal part of the cochlea.

Classostrobus doylei, a new cheirolepidiaceous cone with in situ pollen from the Figueira da Foz Formation (lower Aptian – upper Albian), western Portugal

The genus Classostrobus was established to accommodate unattached Classopollis-containing cones. It is noteworthy that Classopollis as a whole shows significant variation in morphological structure, and male cones bearing Classopollis pollen grains are rarer than vegetative organs of cheirolepidiaceous conifers. A new cheirolepidiaceous microsporangiate cone, Classostrobus doylei, containing Classopollis triangulus pollen grains is described for the first time based on a single specimen from sedimentary rocks exposed in the Carregueira open-cast clay pit complex close to the small village of Juncal, in the Estremadura region, (Lusitanian Basin, western Portugal). The plant-bearing horizon from Carregueira is included in the basal part of the Famalicão Member of the Figueira da Foz Formation, considered to be of late Aptian – early Albian age. The new microsporangiate cone is small, about 2.0 mm long and 1.5 mm wide, ovoid in shape and of typically coniferous structure, probably belonging to Pseudofrenelopsis zlatkoi. The male cone consists of about 16 peltate, imbricated microsporophylls of deltoid shape. Each sporophyll is composed of a stalk and deltoid head showing abaxially 4-5 ovoid pollen sacs. The marginal parts of the sporophylls display long and unicellular trichomes. The observed in situ pollen grains are triangular to subcircular in outline, 16-28 μm in diameter, with an equatorial girdle, subequatorial rimula, proximal trilete scar and a distal cryptopore. The pollen ultrastructure is typical for Classopollis, except for the destroyed condition of the exine. The in situ pollen grains under study are consistent with the data on known dispersed Classopollis triangulus.

Biological characteristics of Moolgarda cunnesius (Valenciennes, 1836) in Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

Moolgarda cunnesius (Valenciennes, 1836) is a species of the Mugilidae family, commonly known as a delicious fish with high nutritional and economic value, making it very promising. Zoological research methods and DNA barcoding are used to study this fish. Morphological Characteristics: The Leaf mullet has 62 to 75 gill rakers on the lower limb of the first gill arch. The upper jaw is slightly curved downward, and the anterior margin of the anterior alveolar is slightly concave. The body has 37 to 43 scales. The first dorsal fin has 4 spines, while the second dorsal fin is smaller and starts behind the anal fin. Pectoral Fins: These fins are 2/3 of the head length. Anal and Pelvic Fins: These fins are small. The second dorsal and anal fins have few scales, with scales only on the anterior and basal parts. The dorsal surface is green, the flanks and abdomen are iridescent silver, and the fins are slightly dull. There is a difference in the measurement criteria between the study areas, but there is no difference between male and female groups. Mahalanobis distance analysis showed no conformational difference between male and female groups of M. cunnesius and no similarity between sexes. Nutritional biological characteristics: The food composition includes a variety of zooplankton phytoplankton benthic animals, and organic detritus. Organic humus has the highest occurrence, followed by dinoflagellates, blue-green algae, diatoms, and the lowest is arthropods. This diverse food composition illustrates that M. cunnesius is an omnivorous species. Genetic Characteristics: COI gene DNA barcoding was used to study the genetic diversity of M. cunnesius in two regions of the North and the South of Tam Giang lagoon. Amplified and sequenced 10 samples of the COI gene of M. cunnesius in Tam Giang lagoon recorded a size of 650 bp. The rate of difference in COI sequences of the 2 samples is low compared to previous studies. The similarity coefficient of M. cunnesius in the two areas of Tam Giang lagoon is very high (0.9953).

Development of a multi-analysis model using an epithelial-fibroblast co-culture system as an alternative to animal testing

The evaluation of respiratory chemical substances has been mostly performed in animal tests (OECD TG 403, TG 412, TG 413, etc.). However, there have been ongoing discussions about the limited use of these inhalation toxicity tests due to differences in the anatomical structure of the respiratory tract, difficulty in exposure, laborious processes, and ethical reasons. Alternative animal testing methods that mimic in vivo testing are required. Therefore, in this study, we established a co-culture system composed of differentiated epithelial cells under an air-liquid interface (ALI) system in the apical part and fibroblasts in the basal part. This system was designed to mimic the wound-healing mechanism in the respiratory system. In addition, we developed a multi-analysis system that simultaneously performs toxicological and functional evaluations. Several individual assays were used sequentially in a multi-analysis model for pulmonary toxicity. Briefly, cytokine analysis, histology, and cilia motility were measured in the apical part, and cell migration and gel contraction assay were performed by exposing MRC-5 cells to the basal culture. First, human airway epithelial cells from bronchial (hAECB) were cultured under air-liquid interface (ALI) system conditions and validated pseudostratified epithelium by detecting differentiation-related epithelial markers using Transepithelial Electrical Resistance (TEER) measurement, Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&amp;E) staining, and immunocytochemistry (ICC) staining. Afterward, the co-culture cells exposed to Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), a key mediator of pulmonary fibrosis, induced significant toxicological responses such as cytotoxicity, cell migration, and gel contraction, which are wound-healing markers. In addition, cilia motility in epithelial cells was significantly decreased compared to control. Therefore, the multi-analysis model with a 3D epithelial-fibroblast co-culture system is expected to be useful in predicting pulmonary toxicity as a simple and efficient high-throughput screening method and as an alternative to animal testing.

Histochemical Analysis and Distribution of Digestive Enzymes in the Gastrointestinal System of the European Barracuda Sphyraena sphyraena (Linnaeus, 1758).

In this study, we examined the gastrointestinal tract of the European barracuda (Sphyraena sphyraena) living in the Adriatic Sea near Dubrovnik, Croatia. The study aimed to identify the presence and distribution of four digestive enzymes: alkaline phosphatase, aminopeptidase, acid phosphatase, and non-specific esterase. We found that alkaline phosphatase activity was present in the brush border of the enterocytes in all the investigated intestinal segments. The activity of the alkaline phosphatase was the strongest in the pyloric caeca but strong only in the basal part of the intestinal villi in the anterior and middle intestinal segments. In the posterior intestinal segment, alkaline phosphatase had strong activity along the entire villi. The activity of acid phosphatase was weak in all the investigated parts of the intestine, except in the posterior part, where it was moderate. Aminopeptidase was detected in the brush border of the intestinal epithelium, with stronger activity in the pyloric caeca and anterior part of the intestine and weaker activity posteriorly. The activity of the non-specific esterase was moderate in the pyloric caeca and anterior part of the intestine, while it was weak in the posterior segment and the lamina propria in all parts of the digestive tract. Weak acid phosphatase activity was observed only in the lamina propria of the posterior part of the intestine. This study is the first to evaluate the activity of digestive enzymes in the European barracuda.

Ultrastructural and SEM-EDX Analysis Characterizations of the Pecten Oculi of the Eurasian Stone-Curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus): New Insights to Its Migratory Adaptations With Northern Egyptian Coast.

Our study represents the first attempts to describe the ultrastructure features in addition to SEM-EDX analysis of the pecten oculi of the nocturnal, visually active Eurasian stone-curlew. The present study was carried out on 10 normal pecten oculi from the migrant Eurasian stone-curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus) that was captured from the Northern Egyptian coast, Edku Lake, Edku, Behera, Egypt. The intraocular folded quadrilateral fan black pecten oculi was observed on the posteroinferior wall of the eyeball. The pecten oculi had 18-20 pleats, with narrow spaces in-between. Our SEM findings showed a tortuous, coiled pecteneal surface due to numerous blood capillaries. The apical part was oriented toward the ciliary body, but the basal part was derived from the retina, just behind the optic nerve. The outer pleat surfaces are covered by the vitreopecteneal limiting membrane, which carries numerous hyalocyte cells on the outer pleat surface. The transverse sections revealed numerous blood capillaries surrounded by numerous melanin granules. Each basal part was surrounded by a thin, elevated ridge. Our SEM-EDX analysis revealed that carbon is the highest (half percent), oxygen represents about one-third, and nitrogen is one-fifth percent of all elements. The lowest elements are sulfate at the apical part and phosphorus in the middle and basal parts. In conclusion, our findings reveal that the number of pecteneal pleats is related to the nocturnal active visual pattern and the lifestyle of this migratory bird.

Bromatological analysis and quantification of calcium oxalates in tender prickly pear flour from different Opuntia cultivars

The average consumption of Opuntia spp. (tender prickly pear) per person in Mexico is 6.3 kg per year due to the convenience of its valuable nutraceutical properties and medicinal benefits and their high concentrations of calcium, fiber, minerals, calcium oxalates, and antioxidants. The Opuntia spp. is used in a wide range of applications, and the food industry has developed flours derived from it as a substitute. The objective of this study was to know the chemical and nutritional qualities of Opuntia (tender prickly pear) prickly pear flour using three Opuntia types, Jalpa, Villanueva and Oreja de Elefante. The tender prickly pear was classified into four ranges of fresh weight, No. 1 (&lt;150 g), No. 2 (150-300 g), No. 3 (300-600 g), and No. 4 (&gt;600 g). The results were subjected to statistical analysis (ANOVA) and mean comparisons using the Tukey method. The chemical and nutrient composition varied according to the variety of prickly pear and tender prickly pear and their stage of ripeness, which correlates with the mass of the cladodes. Results showed that as the weight and degree of ripeness increased, the fiber concentration also increased in the Oreja de Elefante cultivar, having a higher concentration of 9.06% compared to the other cultivars. The calcium oxalates had a negative relationship with age in all Opuntia cultivars. The cultivars showed a higher density of crystals in the upper part and a reduction in crystal density in the basal part, with the Villanueva cultivar having the highest in the upper part with 58.50 calcium oxalate crystals and the middle part with 45.69 calcium oxalates; however, for the basal part the Oreja de Elefante cultivar had the highest concentration with 36.00 calcium oxalate crystals.

Calcareous nannofossil and U-Pb zircon geochronological data on the Coniacian–Santonian in a part of the Central Srednogorie Zone (central South Bulgaria)

The calcareous nannofossil assemblages in three sections (Dalgi Rid, Milkova Cheshma and Toplika) of the clayey-carbonate Mirkovo Formation in the Central Srednogorie Zone have been investigated. These sections were specifically chosen because, at their basal parts, they contain silica-manganese (± iron) mineralisations, which, according to recent studies, may prove useful for investigations into their potential as a source of ore and critical elements. The nannofloras exhibit very poor preservation and comparatively-low taxonomic diversity. Nevertheless, the presence of some biostratigraphically-significant taxa has been detected. Micula staurophora occurs consistently in sections Dalgi Rid and Milkova Cheshma, which, in the absence of Lithastrinus grillii, indicates the middle to late Coniacian UC10. The latter species was recognised, with a relatively-consistent stratigraphical range, in section Toplika. Although Lithastrinus septenarius and Arkhangelskiella cymbiformis are absent at Toplika, the studied sediments could not confidently be assigned solely to UC12, and thus a tentative late Coniacian (pars.)–Santonian (pars.) age was adopted for the strata in this section. This is consistent with the obtained LA-ICP-MS U-Pb age (86.2±1.4 Ma) of the youngest zircons from the volcaniclastics in the uppermost part of the Chelopech Formation at the same locality, immediately below the boundary with the overlying Mirkovo Formation.

Newly discovered diamictite and cap carbonate couplet in the southern Alxa Block, northwestern China: Implications for stratigraphic correlation and Marinoan glaciation

Neoproterozoic glaciogenic diamictite and cap carbonate couplets have played a pivotal role in understanding glacial-interglacial cycles and establishing regional stratigraphic correlation. The Alxa Block in northwestern China preserves a sequence of Neoproterozoic diamictites along its southern margin, but the age and origin of the succession remain debatable due to the lack of discovery of cap carbonate. We report newly discovered cap carbonates that overlie the diamictites of the Shaohuotonggou Formation in the Longshoushan region in the southern Alxa Block. Based on detailed geological investigations, we identified massive diamictites, stratified diamictites, and cap carbonates in the lower part of the formation. The presence of ice-rafted dropstones, bullet-shaped and facetted clasts, glacial striations, and relatively low chemical index of alteration values of sedimentary matrix support a glaciogenic origin of the diamictites. The 2- to 2.6-m-thick cap carbonates are mainly composed of thinly laminated microcrystalline dolomites and show sheet cracks, cemented breccias, and tepee-like structures at the basal part of the unit. These features and their consistently negative δ13C values (−5.2‰ to −2.2‰) are characteristic of Marinoan-age cap carbonates (ca. 635 Ma). The quasi-continuous deposition of the massive diamictites, stratified diamictites, and cap carbonates suggests that the formation of this couplet was closely related to the Marinoan glaciation and subsequent deglaciation. We propose a three-stage depositional model for the glaciogenic succession and recommend that the diamictite and cap carbonate couplet in the Alxa Block provides a credible mark of the Cryogenian−Ediacaran boundary for further stratigraphic correlation and investigation.

Facies distribution, paleoenvironment and hydrocarbon potential of Kanawa Member of Pindiga Formation, Gongola Basin, Northern Benue Trough, Nigeria

The Gongola sub-basin is a frontier inland sedimentary basin consisting of Cretaceous to Tertiary sediments, believed to have been deposited in continental to coastal shallow marine complex. The Kanawa Member of Pindiga Formation is a sequence of limestone and shale. Sedimentology, facies analysis, biostratigraphy, thermal maturity assessment and kerogen typing were conducted on these strata to determine the facies, facies associations, facies successions, paleoenvironment, age, and hydrocarbon generation potential. The studied sequences are of Turonian–Santonian age, deposited due to a major transgression of the basal part of the Pindiga Formation. The shale-limestone series of the Kanawa Member is interpreted as lagoon-to-shallow marine deposits of a carbonate ramp depositional system. The sediments consist of mainly wackestone and packstone facies and shallow marine foraminiferal, suggesting that the Kanawa Member was deposited under low-energy condition. The presence of Ammobaculites subcretacea, Haplophragmoides bauchensis, Haplophragmoides pindigensis, Haplophragmoides excavata, Ammobaulites pindigensis, Ammobaculites bauchensis, Ammobaculites gombensis, Ammobaculites benuensis Ammoastuta nigeriana, Reophax guineana and Miliammina pindigensis foraminiferal assemblages, indicating Late Cretaceous age. Hydrocarbon potential is interpreted to be gas prone although, minor oil could be expected. These correspond to temperature range (TAI values) of 60 to 75 indicating thermally matured for both oil and gas generation.

Decoding regressive depositional history from the Neoproterozoic Panium Sandstone Formation, Kurnool Group, India using ‘sequence stratigraphy’ analysis and detrital zircon geochronology

The Neoproterozoic Panium Sandstone Formation of the Kurnool Group (India) offers a unique scope for understanding regressive depositional history in a Neoproterozoic clastic shoreline. It is divided into two ‘Systems Tracts’ namely forced regression and lowstand. Process-based facies and paleo-environmental analysis identified twelve different facies types; grouped under four facies associations (FA I–IV) belonging to both continental and shallow-marine domains viz. distal braided fluvial, swash bar-foreshore runnel, upper shoreface bar-trough, and lower shoreface bar-interbar. Whereas the fluvial deposit (FA I), sharply and erosionally overlying the argillaceous shelf succession of the Owk shelf shale, represents the product of forced regression, the wave-dominated shallow marine deposits (FA II, III and IV) record the depositional history of lowstand in the coastline. A basin ward transition from unconformity (base of FA I) to correlative conformity (base of shallow marine deposits FA II, III, and IV) is documented. The shoreline had a north-northwest to south-southeast alignment and the north-eastward flowing fluvial system met the shoreline at a high angle. Detrital zircon geochronology from the Panium fluvial sandstone allowed documentation of Paleoproterozoic (~2050 Ma–1800 Ma) and Mesoproterozoic (~1500 Ma to ~1200 Ma) age clusters, in addition to earlier documented age clusters from the Banganapalle alluvial sandstone present at the basal part of Kurnool succession. The new age data suggest an addition of new provenances and in turn, tectonic intervention behind the regression in the Kurnool coastline that triggered Panium deposition. Further, the Paleoproterozoic age cluster, obtained from the Panium fluvial deposit, helped in the justification of solitary zircon grain occurrences within the Owk Shale, as described in earlier studies.

Factors that Determined a Positive Response to Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure and Cardiac Dyssynchrony. One Center Experience.

To evaluate the efficacy of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) associated with cardiac dyssynchrony and to identify the factors that influence the CRT efficacy. This retrospective study included 155 patients after implantation of CRT devices. The CRT devices with a built-in cardioverter-defibrillator (CRT-D) and without it (CRT-P) were implanted in 139 (89.7%) and 16 (10.3%) patients, respectively. The follow-up period was 52.37±35.94 months. Based on the study results, two groups of patients were formed depending on the presence of a clinical response to CRT, responders and non-responders. The factors that influenced the clinical response to CRT were studied. The effect of the baseline state of patients on the effect of therapy was assessed. The need for CRT optimization and a possibility of using electrocardiographic criteria for that purpose were studied. Modern devices and leads for CRT, their functional capabilities and their influence on the CRT efficacy were characterized. Statistical analysis was performed with an IBM SPSS Statistics 21.0 (Chicago, USA) package. CRT implantation with the left ventricular lead placement according to the traditional technique, through the coronary sinus, was successful in 130 (87.9%) patients. Difficulties with the left ventricular lead placement were noted in 13 (8.3%) patients when other techniques were used. After 6 months, a hemodynamic and clinical response was observed in 112 (72.2%) patients, and no positive response in 43 (27.8%). The increase in left ventricular ejection fraction in the responder group was more than 21.8±3.7%, which was associated with an improvement of the 6-minute walk test results. Th clinical response was significantly influenced by the possibility of stimulation from the basal parts of the heart; the use of more modern devices for CRT and quadripolar left ventricular leads; timely CRT optimization; and persistent dyssynchrony in non-responders. During the follow-up period, 34 (21.9%) patients died. The death rate in the non-responder group was significantly higher than in the responder group, 18 (41.3%) vs. 16 (14.3%), p=0.001. The main cause of death in the group of non-responders was CHF. Heart transplantation was performed in 3 (1.9%) patients. CRT increases the life span and improves the quality of life in patients with CHF and cardiac dyssynchrony. There was a group of patients with no benefit from CRT in this study. Modern devices allow increasing the number of patients who benefit from CRT. Periodic optimization of CRT is necessary. When optimizing CRT, it is possible to use electrocardiographic criteria of effectiveness: duration of the QRS complex and changes in the position of the electrical axis of the heart.

The reversed halo sign with a reticulonodular pattern as unusual findings of pulmonary infarct in acute pulmonary embolism: case report and literature review

BackgroundThe reversed halo, also known as the atoll sign, is a distinct sign with ring-shaped consolidation and central lucency. The reversed halo sign, initially emerging in cryptogenic organizing pneumonia, has been observed in various pulmonary diseases, including pulmonary embolism. The presence of this sign in the subpleural, posterior basal parts of the lower lobes, predominantly when solitary, should raise the possibility of other causes, such as pulmonary infarction.Case presentationWe present a case of acute pulmonary embolism with pulmonary infarction discovered on a CT pulmonary angiogram in our emergency department, where the pulmonary infarction appears as a reverse halo sign with a reticulonodular pattern. The reticular nodular pattern in the halo sign is not typical of a pulmonary infarct presenting with a reverse halo sign.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first case of pulmonary infarction in acute pulmonary embolism with the appearance of a reverse halo sign with a reticulonodular pattern.

Amino acid permease OsAAP12 negatively regulates rice tillers and grain yield by transporting specific amino acids to affect nitrogen and cytokinin pathways

Amino acids are necessary nutrients for the growth of Oryza sativa (rice), which can be mediated by amino acid transporter; however, our understanding of these transporters is still limited. This study found that the expression levels of amino acid permease gene OsAAP12 differed between indica and japonica rice. Altered expression of OsAAP12 negatively regulated tillering and yield in transgenic rice lines. Subcellular localization revealed that OsAAP12 was primarily localized to the plasma membrane. Moreover, it was indicated that OsAAP12 transported polar neutral amino acids asparagine (Asn), threonine (Thr), and serine (Ser) through experiments involving yeast heterologous complementation, fluorescence amino acid uptake, and amino acid content determination. Additionally, exogenous application of amino acids Asn, Thr, and Ser suppressed axillary buds outgrowth in OsAAP12 overexpression lines compared with wild-type ZH11. Conversely, the opposite trend was observed in CRISPR mutant lines. RNA-seq analysis showed that the expression patterns of genes involved in the nitrogen and cytokinin pathways were generally altered in OsAAP12 modified lines. Hormone assays indicated that OsAAP12 mutant lines accumulated cytokinins in the basal part of rice, whereas overexpression lines had the opposite effect. In summary, CRISPR mutant of OsAAP12 boosted rice tillering and grain yield by coordinating the content of amino acids and cytokinins, which has potential application value in high-yield rice breeding.

New constraints on the Neoproterozoic geological evolution of the SE corner of the Arabian Plate (NE Oman)

The Saih Hatat Dome is a tectonic window in northeastern Oman with a NW–SE extent of c. 95 km and an east–west extent of c. 50 km, rimmed by the allochthonous Samail Ophiolite and the tectonically underlying nappes composed of sedimentary rocks from the Neo-Tethyan Hawasina Basin. Rocks within the window were affected by high pressure/low-temperature metamorphism during the latest Cretaceous. Stratigraphically, the Saih Hatat Dome contains a basal, several kilometre thick sequence, made up of low-grade metamorphic volcanosedimentary rocks (Hatat Formation). U–Pb zircon laser ablation inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) data from a quartzdiorite dyke, intruding the basal part of the Hatat Formation yielded a crystallization age of 845 +2/−4 Ma, whereas zircons from a quartz keratorphyre have ages of 870 ± 5 Ma. Thus, the basal schists of the Hatat Formation are Tonian in age, similar to Tonian felsic volcanic rocks and a granodioritic intrusion in the Huqf area, 300 km to the south. Detrital zircons from the Hatat Formation show an age peak of 837 Ma with some Neoarchean and Paleoproterozoic grains, which have no potential source in the Arabian–Nubian Shield. Based on the new results, we propose that the Hatat Formation signifies a Tonian back-arc basin, contemporaneous with calc-alkaline igneous intrusions in the Jabal Ja'alan region. Similar calc-alkaline intrusions of comparable ages have been identified in the Mirbat area of Dhofar and the Huqf region in central eastern Oman. We interpret these outcrops as components of a cohesive island arc, characterized by calc-alkaline volcanic rocks and volcanosedimentary back-arc sedimentation. Our model situates these regions off the coast of NW India during the Tonian.

Genome-Wide Analysis of the Auxin/Indoleacetic Acid (Aux/IAA) Gene Family in Autopolyploid Sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum).

The auxin/indoleacetic acid (Aux/IAA) family plays a central role in regulating gene expression during auxin signal transduction. Nonetheless, there is limited knowledge regarding this gene family in sugarcane. In this study, 92 members of the IAA family were identified in Saccharum spontaneum, distributed on 32 chromosomes, and classified into three clusters based on phylogeny and motif compositions. Segmental duplication and recombination events contributed largely to the expansion of this superfamily. Additionally, cis-acting elements in the promoters of SsIAAs involved in plant hormone regulation and stress responsiveness were predicted. Transcriptomics data revealed that most SsIAA expressions were significantly higher in stems and basal parts of leaves, and at nighttime, suggesting that these genes might be involved in sugar transport. QRT-PCR assays confirmed that cold and salt stress significantly induced four and five SsIAAs, respectively. GFP-subcellular localization showed that SsIAA23 and SsIAA12a were localized in the nucleus, consistent with the results of bioinformatics analysis. In conclusion, to a certain extent, the functional redundancy of family members caused by the expansion of the sugarcane IAA gene family is related to stress resistance and regeneration of sugarcane as a perennial crop. This study reveals the gene evolution and function of the SsIAA gene family in sugarcane, laying the foundation for further research on its mode of action.