Specific Intervals Research Articles

Investigating dark energy and cosmic acceleration: A study using FRW and Tsallis entropy in Chern–Simons gravity

This research delves into the study of the FRW spacetime within the framework of Chern–Simons modified gravity integrating the new Tsallis agegraphic dark energy model by examining the key cosmological parameters, including the density parameter, deceleration parameter, and equation of state. The Tsallis agegraphic dark energy model forecasts an Equation of State within the range of [Formula: see text] aligning well with the most recent observational data from Planck, WMAP, and BAO. The cosmic dynamics explored in this study reveal a transition from deceleration to acceleration, which is consistent with empirical observations. Density parameter graphs exhibit a shift from dark matter dominance to the prevalence of the Tsallis agegraphic model over specific redshift intervals. Furthermore, the interaction model predicts a density parameter within the range of [Formula: see text]. This comprehensive inquiry offers significant insights into the impact of the [Formula: see text] CDM model and quintessence on cosmic characteristics, underscoring the observed transition from a period of slowing expansion to accelerated expansion.

Assessing the Relationship Between Cerebral Metabolic Rate of Oxygen and Redox Cytochrome C Oxidase During Cardiac Arrest and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

Evaluating brain oxygen metabolism during cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is essential for improving neurological outcomes and guiding clinical interventions in high-stress medical emergencies. This study focused on two key indicators of brain oxygen metabolism: the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) and the oxidation state of redox cytochrome c oxidase (rCCO). Using advanced techniques such as hyperspectral near-infrared spectroscopy (hNIRS) and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF), we conducted a comprehensive analysis of their relationship in pigs during and after cardiac arrest and CPR. Both the entire duration of these experiments and specific time intervals were investigated, providing a detailed view of how these metrics interact. The data reveal a non-linear relationship between rCCO and CMRO2. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how the brain manages oxygen during critical episodes, potentially guiding future interventions in neurological care and improving outcomes in emergency medical settings.

A Head-Specific Transcriptomic Study Reveals Key Regulatory Pathways for Winter Diapause in the Mosquito Culex pipiens.

The primary vector of the West Nile virus, Culex pipiens, undergoes reproductive dormancy during the adverse winter season. While our current understanding has mainly focused on cellular signals and phenotypic shifts occurring at a global scale during diapause, information on tissue-specific transcriptomic changes remains limited. This knowledge gap is a major challenge in interpreting the regulatory mechanisms at the tissue level. To address this, the present work utilized RNA-seq technology to investigate the transcriptional changes in the head that house the brain and crucial endocrinal organs such as corpora allata. We obtained RNA samples from the heads of diapausing and nondiapausing female mosquitoes at two specific time intervals, ZT0 and ZT16, and then subjected them to sequencing. Our results revealed differences in differentially expressed genes between diapause and non-diapause at ZT0 and ZT16, highlighting the phenotypic and diel variations in gene expression. We also selected twelve genes associated with the diapause phenotype and examined the transcript abundance at six different time points over 24 h. qRT-PCR analysis showed similar up- and downregulation of transcripts between the diapause and nondiapause phenotypes thus validating the results of RNA-seq. In summary, our study identified new genes with phenotypic and diel differentiation in their expression, potentially linking photoperiod to seasonal reproductive dormancy in insects. The newly presented information will significantly advance our understanding of head-specific genes crucial for insect diapause.

Insights into neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and pregnancy from a single-center study in Thailand

Our study focused on assessing disease and pregnancy outcomes in Thai patients with Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD), a condition that disproportionately affects women of childbearing age and poses risks to both mother and fetus. We retrospectively analyzed eight NMOSD patients with a total of 10 pregnancies from our central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating diseases (CNS-IDDs) registry. Over a 12-months spanning from before pregnancy to 12 months postpartum, we observed 13 relapses, with a notable 76.92% occurring postpartum. The mean annualized relapse rate (ARR) peaked at 1.2 (SD ± 1.93) during specific postpartum intervals (0–3 and 6–9 months postpartum), significantly increasing from 0.20 (SD ± 0.42) in the 12 months before pregnancy (BP) to 1.00 (SD ± 1.49) during the 12 months postpartum (PP). Disability, assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, worsened from 1.56 (SD ± 2.18) before pregnancy to 2.1 (SD ± 2.63) at six months postpartum. Maternal and fetal complications were prevalent, with six out of nine pregnancies experiencing adverse outcomes such as false labor, premature rupture of membranes, postpartum hemorrhage, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, stillbirth, and low birth weight. Based on our findings, azathioprine and rituximab may be suitable treatment options for maintaining therapy throughout pregnancy, particularly in cases of high disease activity. Our study highlights the critical need for comprehensive management strategies for NMOSD patients of childbearing age. Preconception planning and counselling, along with early obstetrical consultation and closely monitored treatments during pregnancy and postpartum, are vital to mitigating pregnancy-related relapses and adverse fetal outcomes in this vulnerable patient population.

P-85. Impact of Magnetic Resonance Imaging on Re-Amputation Rates in Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis

Abstract Background Diabetic foot infections constitute 20% of hospital admissions and result in 80% of amputations annually. It is noteworthy that diabetes is more prevalent among U.S. veterans compared to the general population due to age, exposure to environmental factors during service, and mental health conditions which can contribute to unhealthy behaviors and increased risk of diabetes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the imaging modality of choice for evaluating diabetic foot osteomyelitis given its higher sensitivity. A staging MRI, may decrease subsequent amputation rates in diabetics with osteomyelitis.Table 1:Patient characteristics and comorbiditiesMRI=magnetic resonance imaging, MI=myocardial infarction, CHF=congestive heart failure, PVD=peripheral vascular disease, CVD=cardiovascular disease, DM=diabetes mellitus, COPD=chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, PUD=peptic ulcer disease, HIV=human immunodeficiency virus Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted to analyze the risk of re-amputation in patients with diabetic foot osteomyelitis hospitalized between 2005 and 2022. Patients with and without MRI guided treatment were compared. The primary outcome was the rate of re-amputation at specific time intervals: 30-day, 60-day, 180-day, and 365-day. Charlson Comorbidity Index scores were calculated for all patients, and a multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios and confidence intervals. Veterans were included if they had a diabetic foot infection complicated by osteomyelitis, and requiring amputation. Patients were excluded if they had an initial above-the-knee amputation (AKA) or below-the-knee amputation (BKA), since these are generally definitive treatment for osteomyelitis.Table 2:Treatment CharacteristicsMRI=magnetic resonance imaging, MSSA=methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA=methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus Results There were 1,463 patients based on ICD-10 codes, of which 475 patients underwent amputation. MRI guided therapy occurred in 106 patients. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a 10-fold decrease in the odds of re-amputation within 30 days (OR=0.1; CI 0.01-0.72), a 3-fold decrease within 60 days (OR=0.32; CI 0.13-0.83), and a 2-fold decrease within the 180-day and 365-day (OR=0.51; CI 0.28-0.94 and OR=0.52; CI 0.3-0.9, respectively) intervals when MRI guidance was utilized.Table 3:Bivariate analysis of re-amputationsMRI=magnetic resonance imaging Conclusion These findings suggest that incorporating a pre-amputation MRI into the diagnostic and treatment approach for osteomyelitis associated with diabetic foot infections may reduce the risk for subsequent amputations.Table 4:Multivariable analysis of re-amputationsMRI= magnetic resonance imaging Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Evaluation of Prospective ECG-Triggered CT Scan as a Practical Alternative to Standard Retrospective ECG-Gated Scan for Pre-TAVI Patients

Purpose: CT-TAVI is a critical component of pre-TAVI assessment. The conventional method, retrospective ECG-gated scan, covering a complete cardiac cycle, measures the annulus during optimal systolic phases. Recently, prospective ECG-triggered scans acquiring images at a specific interval of the cardiac cycle were evaluated, allowing faster acquisition and lower contrast doses. Moreover, these scans might be beneficial for elderly patients, reducing the need for breath-holding and easing cooperation requirements. Still, their impact on annular measurement and procedural success has yet to be fully evaluated. Methods: This retrospective, single-center study included 419 patients who underwent CT-TAVI scans, by either prospective or retrospective scanning methods. Baseline data and calculated surgical risk scores were collected, with propensity score matching performed, followed by univariate analysis, Cox regression, and multivariable regression analysis. Results: A total of 171 patient pairs were generated via propensity score matching, ensuring that both groups had similar distributions of age (81 ± 8 years), sex (55% males), and baseline comorbidities. The patients in the prospective ECG-triggered group were exposed to a smaller amount of contrast material (40.0 ± 12 mL vs. 70.0 ± 48 mL, p < 0.001) and radiation (4.4 ± 3.6 mSv vs. 8.0 ± 10.3 mSv, p < 0.001). The prospective ECG-triggered group had a smaller aortic annulus area and diameter (426.6 ± 121.0 mm2 vs. 469.1 ± 130.8 mm2, p = 0.006 and 23.3 ± 3.2 mm vs. 24.5 ± 3.6 mm, p = 0.004) but no excess paravalvular leak was observed. Multivariable analysis showed no significant differences in mortality and composite endpoints between the two groups after 23 months of follow-up. Conclusion: Prospective ECG-triggered, ultra-fast, low-dose, high-pitch scan protocol, used in selected patients offers comparable safety and clinical procedural outcomes along with time and contrast savings.

New Onset Diabetes After Organ Transplantation: Risk Factors, Treatment, and Consequences

New onset diabetes mellitus after organ transplantation (NODAT) is a frequent and serious complication of solid organ transplantation. It significantly impacts graft function, patient survival, and quality of life. NODAT is diagnosed based on the criteria for type 2 diabetes, with the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) serving as the gold standard for diagnosis. The development of NODAT is influenced by a range of risk factors, which are classified into modifiable and non-modifiable categories. Post-transplant, regular glycemic monitoring at specific intervals is essential for timely diagnosis and initiation of therapy. Early intervention can help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes-related complications. The treatment strategy for NODAT involves lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions. These include medications such as metformin, sulfonylureas, glinides, thiazolidinediones, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, and insulin. Adjusting immunosuppressive therapy—either by reducing dosages or substituting drugs with lower diabetogenic potential—is a common preventative and therapeutic measure. However, this must be performed cautiously to avoid acute graft rejection, which poses a greater risk to the patient compared to NODAT itself. In addition to managing diabetes, addressing comorbidities such as hypertension and dyslipidemia is crucial, as they elevate the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. Patients with NODAT are also prone to developing common diabetes-related complications, including diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, and peripheral vascular disease. Therefore, regular follow-ups and appropriate treatment are vital to maintaining quality of life and improving long-term outcomes.

Financial Support Efficiency of Rural Revitalization: Based on Three-Stage DEA Model and Malmquist Index Model

Financial resources play a crucial role in rural revitalization. Understanding the efficiency of financial support is essential for the scientific and rational allocation of these resources. Therefore, we conducted an assessment over the period 2011–2020 utilizing the three-stage DEA model and the Malmquist index model to measure the efficiency of financial support for rural revitalization across 30 Chinese provinces (excluding Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and Tibet) from both static and dynamic perspectives. The results indicate the following: (1) Despite an overall downward trend, efficiency increased during specific intervals, namely 2012–2013, 2015–2016, and 2018–2019. (2) Regionally, the decline in the efficiency of financial support for rural revitalization is particularly notable in the northeast region. The eastern and central regions also experienced this trend to a lesser extent, whereas the western region experienced a more moderate decrease. However, a detailed analysis revealed that 10 provinces experienced efficiency gains. (3) Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA) regression results suggest that environmental variables have a measurable impact on the efficiency of financial support for rural revitalization.

Unveiling the Synergistic Effect of Salicylic Acid on Triterpenoid Biosynthesis in Athelia termitophila: Elucidating the Molecular Underpinnings

This study investigates the dual role of salicylic acid (SA) in enhancing the production of triterpenes and elucidates its molecular regulatory mechanisms in the fungus Athelia termitophila (TMB), a rich source of bioactive triterpenoids vital to the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. Our innovative approach involves the strategic application of SA during the mycelial growth phase, leading to a remarkable 21.87% increase in triterpene yield under optimized conditions of 200 μmol/L SA over 9 days. Pioneering in its methodology, our research employs Spearman correlation analysis to dissect the intricate relationship between triterpene content and gene expression within the mevalonate (MVA) pathway of A. termitophila. This analysis has identified four key genes—Acetyl-Coa Acetyltransferase (AACT), Squalene Epoxidase (SE), Phosphomevalonate Kinase (PMK), and Mevalonate Diphosphate Decarboxylase (MVD)—that are important for triterpene synthesis, providing new insights into the biosynthetic capabilities of A. termitophila. Furthermore, our application of cluster analysis has unveiled unprecedented expression patterns among critical genes, at specific growth intervals. This novel insight into the temporal dynamics of gene transcription during triterpene synthesis provides a comprehensive view of the biosynthetic process, setting the stage for targeted enhancement of triterpene production in A. termitophila. This investigation not only highlights TMB’s potential as a biotechnological source of triterpenes but also provides critical insights into the underlying molecular pathways responsible for triterpene synthesis.

Clinical and Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain characteristics of tuberculosis patients with diabetes mellitus in Changping District, Beijing, China

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus (DM) is a major risk factor for tuberculosis (TB), However, limited research exists on their clinical and strain characteristics. This study aims to investigate the correlation between these factors in TB-DM patients in Changping District. MethodsWhole genome sequencing (WGS) and drug susceptibility tests (DST) were performed on culture-positive strains. Spearman correlation analysis was used to examine risk factors and the correlation between lineage, cavities, and hemoptysis in the TB-DM population. The specificity, sensitivity, and confidence intervals for predicting phenotypic drug resistance based on genotypic resistance were calculated.ResultsAmong the 3924 TB patients, 292 had DM, showing a doubling in the proportion of TB patients with DM over seven years. Among the 144 etiologically positive TB-DM cases treated at the Changping Institute for Tuberculosis Prevention and Treatment, 75% (108/144) of the patients exhibited tuberculosis lesions that formed cavities and 12.5% (18/144) with hemoptysis. A statistically significant difference in cavity formation across different age groups was observed (r = -0.198, P < 0.05). Out of the 144 etiologically positive patients, WGS successfully revived 73 MTB strains, with Lineage 2 being predominant. No statistical difference was found between lineages and the presence of cavities or hemoptysis. The DST results showed the highest resistance rates to isoniazid and streptomycin, both at 8.2% (6/73), with approximately one-quarter of the strains resistant to at least one anti-TB drug, and about half (47.1%, 8/17) resistant to first-line drugs. The study demonstrated good specificity but suboptimal sensitivity in predicting phenotypic drug resistance based on genotypic resistance.ConclusionsThe rising incidence of diabetes in tuberculosis patients within Changping District has intensified the spread of TB, with these patients demonstrating severe illness and high drug resistance. This study aims to develop targeted prevention and management strategies, offering crucial guidance for treating co-infections of TB and DM and controlling disease spread.

The Stability of Trend Management Strategies in Chaotic Market Conditions

This study investigates the stability of trend management strategies under stochastic chaos conditions, with a focus on speculative trading in the Forex market. The primary aim is to evaluate the feasibility and robustness of these strategies for asset management. The experimental setup involves sequential optimization and testing of trend strategies across three EURUSD observation intervals, where each subsequent interval alternates between training and testing roles. Methods include numerical data analysis, parametric optimization, and the use of both conventional and bidirectional exponential filters to isolate system components and improve trend detection. Observations reveal that while trend strategies optimized for specific intervals yield positive results, their effectiveness diminishes on unseen intervals due to inherent market instability. The results show significant limitations in using linear trend-based strategies in chaotic environments, with optimized strategies often leading to losses in subsequent periods. The discussion highlights the potential of integrating trend statistics into multi-expert decision systems, leveraging fuzzy solutions based on fundamental analysis to enhance decision-making reliability. In conclusion, while standalone trend strategies are unsuitable for stable asset management in chaotic markets, their integration into hybrid systems may provide a pathway for improved performance and resilience.

Improved plant biomass production under low nitrogen conditions through conditional accumulation of the second messenger, guanosine tetraphosphate, in chloroplasts and mitochondria.

To enhance plant biomass production under low nitrogen conditions, we employed a method to artificially and temporarily accumulate the bacterial second messenger, guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp), to modify plastidial or mitochondrial metabolism. Specifically, we fused a chloroplast or mitochondrial transit-peptide to the N-terminus of the bacterial ppGpp synthase YjbM, which was conditionally expressed by an estrogen-inducible promoter in Arabidopsis. The resulting recombinant Arabidopsis plants exhibited estrogen-dependent ppGpp accumulation in chloroplasts or mitochondria and showed reduced fresh weight compared to wild type (WT) plants when grown on agar-solidified plates containing a certain amount of estrogen. This finding aligns with the previous study indicating that plastidial ppGpp levels can influence plant biomass production. When the recombinant plants were grown in the soil with estrogen and low nitrogen-containing water at specific time intervals, they exhibited greater fresh weight than WT plants. These results suggest that the conditional accumulation of ppGpp in not only chloroplasts, but also in mitochondria can lead to improved plant biomass production in soil with low nitrogen applications.

The Evolution of Hydraulic Fracturing Technologies for the Carbonate Sediments of the Kashirsky and Podolsky Horizons of the Arlanskoe Oilfield

This article reviews the evolution of hydraulic fracturing (HF) technologies for the carbonate sediments of the kashirsky and podolsky horizons of the Arlanskoe oilfield (the Republic of Bashkortostan and the Udmurt Republic) by the influence of changes in current development conditions, reserve depletion, clarification of the geological structure, and scientific and technical advancements. It presents an overview of the main technologies of primary hydraulic fracturing and re-fracturing actively used today and/or are being introduced on the industrial scale. For horizontal wells, hydraulic fracturing with hydraulic jet perforation (HJP) is employed. This technology enables the development of previously untapped or underperforming sections of the wellbore by allowing selective acid and proppant injection into specific intervals, offering high controllability and predictability. Both HJP and HF stages are completed in a single tripping operation without the need for a coiled tubing fleet. For directional wells, high-tonnage hydraulic fracturing with increased proppant mass up to 40–50 tons is a promising technological solution. This approach enhances to increase starting oil flow rates by improving coverage ratio due to involving poorly drained and previously undeveloped overlying and underlying layers. The article consolidates practical experience with hydraulic fracturing technologies, analyzes their effectiveness, identifies the features of hydraulic fracturing in directional and horizontal wells, and develops an algorithm for the selection of hydraulic fracturing technology for the conditions of a carbonate reservoir.

Efficacy of music-based intervention for people living with dementia in an inpatient setting: A pilot study.

Pharmacological treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia is of limited benefit. The addition of non-pharmacological interventions is often essential for optimal symptom control. Music is a viable way to help patients communicate and improve their quality of life. This study aims to find the most effective way to use music in a busy dementia ward. 17 inpatients (aged 63-93 years) with a clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and dementia took part over five weeks. Music lyrics presented via free-field speakers were individualized to personal preferences. Instruments (e.g., maracas) were used in some group sessions. We used the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) and Music in Dementia Assessment Scales (MiDAS) to evaluate patients' behavior before and after musical intervention. There was a significant difference in mean NPI-Q scores before and after the music intervention. Specifically, Delusion, Motor Disturbances, and Agitation scores were significantly reduced after music intervention. This was accompanied by significant improvements in Interest, Response, and Enjoyment of MiDAS items during specific intervals. Clinical professionals can successfully deliver music-based intervention to inpatients with advanced dementia to help manage their behavioral symptoms in the short term. Music-based interventions' use for inpatient wards must be further investigated as an economical and personalized non-pharmacological therapeutic tool for patients with dementia.

Comparative analysis of anticoagulant influence on PMI estimation based on porcine blood metabolomics profile measured using GC-MS.

Accurate post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation is essential in forensic investigations. Although various methods for PMI determination have been developed, only an approximate estimation is still achievable, and an accurate PMI indication is still challenging. Therefore, in this study, we employed gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)-based metabolomics to assess post-mortem changes in porcine blood samples collected with and without the addition of anticoagulant (EDTA). Our study aimed to identify metabolites dependent on the EDTA addition and time (taking into account the biodiversity of the studied organism) and those that are time-dependent but resistant to the addition of an anticoagulant. The experiment was performed on blood samples collected from 16 animals (domestic pig, breed: Polish Large White), 8 with and 8 without EDTA addition. The moment of death (time 0) and 15 additional time points (from 3 to 168 h after death) were selected to examine changes in metabolites' levels in specific time intervals. We employed linear mixed models to study the relationship between metabolite intensities, time and presence of EDTA while accounting for the effect of individual pigs. We confirmed that the intensity of 16 metabolites (mainly amino acids) significantly depends on PMI and the presence of EDTA. However, the intensity of the ideal biomarker(s) for PMI estimation should be determined only by the time after death and not by external factors such as the presence of the anticoagulant agent. Thus, we identified 41 metabolites with time-dependent intensities that were not susceptible to EDTA presence. Finally, we assessed the performance of these metabolites in a PMI predictive model. Citraconic acid yielded one of the lowest errors in general PMI estimation (32.82 h). Moreover, similar errors were observed for samples with and without EDTA (33.32 h and 32.34 h, respectively). Although the small sample size and information leak in predictive modelling prevent drawing definite conclusions, citraconic acid shows potential as a robust PMI estimator.

The relationship between maternal age, obesity and child mortality: a cross-sectional study using 2013-2014 Demographic and Health Survey in Democratic Republic of the Congo at national, and sub-national levels.

To investigate the relationship between maternal age and nutritional status, and test associations between maternal nutritional status and child mortality with a focus on maternal obesity. Secondary analysis of data from nationally representative cross-sectional sample of women of reproductive ages (15-49 years) and their children under 5 years. The outcome variable for maternal nutritional status was BMI, classified into underweight (BMI < 18·50 kg/m2), normal weight (18·50-24·99 kg/m2), overweight (25·0-29·9 kg/m2) and obesity (>=30·0 kg/m2). Child mortality was captured with five binary variables measuring the risk of dying in specific age intervals (neonatal, post-neonatal, infant, childhood and under-five mortality). The most recent Demographic and Health Surveys from Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The final samples consisted of 7892 women of reproductive ages (15-49 years) and 19 003 children aged 0-59 months. The prevalence of obesity was estimated at 3·4 %; it increased with maternal age. Furthermore, obesity unevenly affected provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Kinshasa, South Kivu, North Kivu and Maniema were most affected. Finally, maternal obesity showed mixed effects on child mortality. The prevalence of obesity is still low; however, provinces are unevenly affected. Therefore, interventions and programmes to improve nutrition should incorporate geographical disparities to tackle adverse child outcomes associated with maternal obesity, to limit negative consequences of maternal obesity, including non-communicable diseases which might be a strong impediment to reach Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2 and 3.

Bacterial Growth Temperature as a Horizontally Acquired Polygenic Trait.

Evolutionary events leading to organismal preference for a specific growth temperature, as well as genes whose products are needed for a proper function at that temperature, are poorly understood. Using 64 bacteria from phylum Thermotogota as a model system, we examined how optimal growth temperature changed throughout Thermotogota history. We inferred that Thermotogota's last common ancestor was a thermophile and that some Thermotogota evolved the mesophilic and hyperthermophilic lifestyles secondarily. By modeling gain and loss of genes throughout Thermotogota history and by reconstructing their phylogenies, we demonstrated that adaptations to lower and higher growth temperature involve both the acquisition of necessary genes and loss of unnecessary genes. Via a pangenome-wide association study, we correlated presence/absence of 68 genes with specific optimal growth temperature intervals. While some of these genes are poorly characterized, most are involved in metabolism of amino acids, nucleotides, carbohydrates, and lipids, as well as in signal transduction and regulation of transcription. Most of the 68 genes have a history of horizontal gene transfer with other bacteria and archaea that often grow at similar temperatures, suggesting that parallel acquisitions of genes likely promote independent adaptations of different Thermotogota species to specific growth temperatures.

Blood pressure variability and functional outcome after decompressive hemicraniectomy in malignant middle cerebral artery infarction.

Malignant middle cerebral artery infarction (MMI) is a severe condition with a high mortality rate. While decompressive hemicraniectomy has been demonstrated to reduce mortality, there is limited knowledge regarding blood pressure (BP) management following the surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether early blood pressure variability after surgery is associated with functional outcomes. This study was a retrospective cohort analysis of patients with MMI who underwent decompressive hemicraniectomy. We calculated BP variability (BPV) by measuring BP hourly over a 72-h period following surgery. We investigated the association between BPV parameters and functional outcomes at 3-month. Additionally, we analyzed which specific time intervals within the 72 h post-surgery BPV were associated with functional outcomes. A total of 110 patients were eligible for analysis. The mean age was 63.1 ± 13.1 years, and 57 (51.8%) were men. Among the systolic BPV parameters, the coefficient of variance showed a significant association with functional outcomes at 3-month (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69-0.95), and this association remained significant after adjusting for the antihypertensive agents use (AOR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.70-0.95). In contrast, diastolic BPV parameters did not show a significant association with functional outcomes. Systolic BPV during the 0- to 24-h period of the 72-h observation was significantly associated with functional outcomes (AOR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.76-0.98). Our study identified a significant association between systolic BPV and 3-month functional outcomes in MMI patients who underwent decompressive hemicraniectomy. This association persisted regardless of the use of antihypertensive agents, particularly during the hyperacute phase within the first 24 h post-surgery.

Investigation on topology-dependent adsorption and aggregation of protein on nanoparticle surface enabled by integrating time-limited proteolysis with cross-linking mass spectrometry.

The biological identity of nanomaterials is predominantly dictated by their surface protein corona (PC), yet the topological characteristics of most PCs remain uncharacterized in situ. We employed time-limited proteolysis combined time-segmented cross-linking mass spectrometry at specific intervals (10 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h and 18 h) to, for the first time, elucidate the spatial distribution, topological architecture and molecular orientation of multiple proteins within the multi-layered PC on nano-Fe3O4 surfaces. Additional monolinks, intermolecular and intramolecular crosslinks which were previously inaccessible to the crosslinker were unveiled in a layer-by-layer manner. 197 sparse intermolecular crosslinks involving 368 distinct wheat proteins were identified. Notably, charge complementarity and hydrophobic residue pairings, rather than hydrophobic peptide motifs, primarily govern the protein-protein interactions. For the crosslinks bridging the proteolysable and proteolysis-resistant layers, 72 % presented one end in a random coil conformation. Furthermore, the molecular orientation of 16 proteins including Q8L803, P11534 and P93594, etc., in the proteolysis-resistant layer was determined. The observation of violated intramolecular crosslinks between two rigid structural domains (e.g., A0A3B5Y430) suggests that nanoparticle-protein and protein-protein interactions may induce conformational changes in the adsorbed proteins. These findings offer novel insights into the spontaneous formation mechanisms of PC.

Remote Follow-Up/Monitoring of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices.

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation is a diagnostic and therapeutic method that is being employed on a growing number of patients globally. These devices require long-term follow-up and monitoring, and after implantation, regular follow-ups are conducted at specific intervals. These follow-ups provide crucial information about both the device and the patient, aiding in diagnosis and guiding treatment. These monitoring procedures, which are usually performed in a clinical setting, place a substantial burden on the healthcare system and its personnel. Remote follow-up and monitoring, as discussed in this article, has the potential to replace many in-clinic follow-up/monitoring procedures, meeting the device and patient monitoring needs without compromising safety. Thus, it can alleviate the burden on the healthcare system and its personnel in a cost-effective manner. This article aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of remote follow-up and monitoring for CIEDs.