bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chimera of fossil biomolecules found in Pleistocene fossil in tropical cave: Fossil biofilm characterization by micro Raman spectroscopy
Authors: de Sousa Daniel Vieira , Maia Paulo Victor Sciammarella , Eltink Estevan , Guimarães Luciano de Moura
Published: February 2024

Finding biomolecules in fossils is a challenging task as they tend to degrade over time due to physical, chemical, and biological factors. The primary hypothesis explaining the presence of biomolecules in fossilized bone suggests that they were preserved during the fossilization process. Some studies posit that these biomolecules may result from contamination by bacteria biofilm formed during fossilization, or they could be artifacts arising from measurement procedures. Several studies on the fossilization process, covering diverse fossil ages and environmental conditions, have used Raman spectroscopy. They report the detection of multiple bands between 1200 to 1800 cm-1 associated with organic compounds, yet a complete understanding of the significance of these bands remains elusive. Our aim is to address this issue through Raman spectroscopy investigations on Pleistocene teeth from Tayassu and Smilodon populator. These fossils were obtained from a well-preserved stratigraphic sequence in Toca de Cima do Pilão cave, near the National Park of Serra da Capivara in semiarid Brazil. We propose two hypotheses to explain the presence of organic compounds in fossil bones: i) these compounds serve as biological signatures related to preserved fossil biomolecules, or ii) they are biological signatures associated with the formation of bacterial biofilm. Our results align with the second hypothesis, showing that these organic signatures are linked to biofilm formation, with a high likelihood of biofilm degradation. However, the specific mechanisms involved in the natural degradation of biofilm in fossil records remain unexplored in this study. In our case, the formation of biofilm on fossil bones is attributed to the oligotrophic conditions of the cave sediment matrix. We present a comprehensive model to elucidate the existence of biofilm on fossil bones, emphasizing the pivotal role of post-depositional processes, especially water action, in the cave environment. As the fossils were discovered in a cave setting, post-depositional processes significantly contribute to the formation of the biofilm matrix. Although our study provides insights into biofilm formation, further research is needed to delve into the specific mechanisms driving natural biofilm degradation in fossil records.
Smartphone addiction may reduce prefrontal cortex activity: an assessment using cerebral blood flow
Authors: Suzuki Takuya , Waki Hideaki , Hisajima Tatsuya
Published: February 2024

Previous studies have reported that increased smartphone use is associated with cognitive function decline. To date, the hemodynamics in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) due to smartphone addiction have not been elucidated. This study aimed to examine the relationship between smartphone addiction and PFC activity. After measuring the smartphone usage time using an application, we evaluated smartphone addiction, depression, and sleep quality using questionnaires. In addition, to assess PFC activity, which is responsible for working memory, we measured cerebral blood flow in the PFC during verbal and spatial working memory tasks (VWM and SWM, respectively). Cerebral blood flow was measured in terms of the oxygenated hemoglobin levels using a 16-channel (Ch) near-infrared spectrometer. Data from 79 participants were analyzed. First, we found that smartphone addiction was positively correlated with depression, but not with the smartphone usage time and sleep quality. Second, after excluding the influence of depression, we found that smartphone addiction was negatively correlated with cerebral blood flow in Ch10 during VWM and in Ch6, 7, and 10 during SWM. These Chs correspond to the frontopolar cortex (FPC), which is part of the PFC, suggesting that smartphone addiction may reduce FPC activity.
Genomic Regions Influencing the Hyperspectral Phenome of Deoxynivalenol Infected Wheat
Authors: Concepcion Jonathan S. , Noble Amanda D. , Thompson Addie M. , Dong Yanhong , Olson Eric L.
Published: February 2024

The quantitative nature of Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) resistance requires further exploration of the wheat genome to identify regions conferring resistance. In this study, we explored the application of hyperspectral imaging of Fusarium-infected wheat kernels and identify regions of the wheat genome contributing significantly to the accumulation of Deoxynivalenol (DON) mycotoxin. Strong correlations were identified between hyperspectral reflectance values for 204 wavebands in the 397 nm to 673 nm range and DON mycotoxin. Dimensionality reduction using principal components was performed for all 204 wavebands and 38 sliding windows across the range of wavebands. PC1 of all 204 wavebands explained 70% of the total variation in waveband reflectance values and was highly correlated with DON mycotoxin. PC1 was used as a phenotype in GWAS and a large effect QTL on chromosome 2D was identified for PC1 of all wavebands as well as nearly all 38 sliding windows. The allele contributing variation in PC1 values also led to a substantial reduction in DON. The 2D polymorphism affecting DON levels localized to the exon of TraesCS2D02G524600 which is upregulated in wheat spike and rachis tissues during FHB infection. This work demonstrates the value of hyperspectral imaging as a correlated trait for investigating the genetic basis of resistance and developing wheat varieties with enhanced resistance to FHB.
FFF print defect characterization through in-situ electrical resistance monitoring
Authors: Jonkers Heime , Dijkshoorn Alexander , Stramigioli Stefano , Krijnen Gijs
Published: February 2024

Fused Filament Fabrication is a popular fabrication technique. Currently there is a need for in-situ monitoring modalities to gather real-time information on prints, both for quality control and closed-loop control. Despite current advancements, effective and affordable in-situ monitoring techniques for non-destructive defect detection of voids and bonding quality are still limited. This work demonstrates in-situ monitoring of Fused Filament Fabrication through electrical resistance measurements as an alternative to thermal and optical methods. A new, easy-to-implement setup is demonstrated which measures the electrical resistance of a conductively doped filament between the nozzle and single or multi-electrodes on the bed. Defects can be located in an unprecedented way with the use of encoded axes in combination with the observed resistance variations throughout the part. A model of the anisotropic electrical conduction is used to interpret the measurements, which matches well with the data. Warping, inter-layer adhesion, under-extrusion and overhang sagging print defects can be observed in the measurements of parts with a complex geometry, which would be difficult to measure otherwise. Altogether in-situ electrical resistance monitoring offers a tool for optimising prints by online studying the influence of the print parameters for quality assessment and it opens up possibilities for closed-loop control.
Determination of Serum Immunoglobulin G Concentration in Lamb and Goat Kid, Awash Fentale, Afar Nations Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Desta Negash , Legesse Kibeb , Jackson Wendi , Kebede Nigatu , Smith Watrina
Published: February 2024

In this study, a total of 143 heads (97 lambs and 46 goats) were randomly selected from 3 villages in Awash Fentale district, Afar Regional State, Ethiopia. To determine the serum IgG concentration of lamb and goat kids in the study area and to determine the effect of parity, age, birth type, sex, and dam body condition on the transfer of passive immunoglobulin concentration in the study area. A lamb and goat kid blood sample was taken at 2–7 days of age. 4 ml of blood was collected from a jugular vein puncture in a sterile plain tube, and serum was collected by centrifugation. The species-specific sheep and goat radial immuno diffusion kit-analyzed serum results after 24 hours showed a range of 47.64 to 6071.632 mg/dl serum IgG concentration in lamb and goat kids, ranging from 169.577 to 3559.875 mg/dl serum IgG concentration. The radial immuno diffusion result showed that 21.6% of newborn lambs in the study area had a failure of passive immunoglobulin concentration, 78.4% had adequate passive immunity, 83.4% of goat kids had an adequate passive immunoglobulin concentration, and 16.6% of kids had a failure of passive immunoglobulin concentration from their dams. The result showed that failure of passive immunity was important in the study area. Among the considered risk factors evaluated by simple and multiple logistic regression, the age of the lamb and type of delivery had a statistically significant P value (P < 0.05) on the lamb. Generally, passive immunity transfer is increased by colostrum feeding and animal husbandry management interventions, which is significant for pastoralists whose livelihoods are dependent on livestock.
Climatology and atmospheric conditions of foehn occurrence in the Polish Tatra mountains
Authors: Grajek Zofia , Bednorz Ewa
Published: February 2024

Foehn wind occurrence has generated great interest among researchers because of the destructive power and impact on the local climate. Based on anemometric data provided by a high-mountain station on Kasprowy Wierch in the Polish Tatra Mountains, the characteristics of the potential occurrence of foehn wind (referred to as halny in the Polish Tatras) are presented, including its speed and duration, as well as the frequency of occurrence on
a multiannual, annual and daily basis. Halnywinds occur most frequently in the cold period of the year, with the frequency peaking in November, and sporadically in the summer.
The occurrence of foehn winds is strongly dependent on the synoptic situation. Therefore, the main aim of the study was to identify the circulation conditions conducive to their occurrence on the Polish side of the Tatra Mountains. Circulation conditions responsible for foehn formation were analysed using gridded sea level pressure (SLP) data from the NCEP-DOE (National Centers for Environmental Prediction - Department of Energy) reanalyses. The occurrence of foehn wind in the Tatra Mountains is associated with a low pressure system over north-western Europe, and above normal pressure over south-eastern Europe. The location and intensity of the centres of atmospheric influence on foehn days can vary, as indicated by the three types of pressure systems favouring the occurrence of the phenomenon, distinguished by the hierarchical grouping method.
Optimizing nitrogen rate under single irrigation can maintained a high yield and increased economic benefits in winter wheat
Authors: Bao Xiaoyuan , Guo Congcong , Liu Xuejing , Dai Menglei , Zhang Baoyuan , Ren Jianhong , Gu Limin , Zhen Wenchao
Published: February 2024

Aims
Optimizing winter wheat irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer management is crucial for ensuring sustainable agricultural development in North China Plain (NCP). However, the optimal nitrogen management, especially in single irrigation in spring for winter wheat, is not clear.
Methods
In 2020–2022, we conducted a field experiment to explore the effects of different irrigation levels (W2, irrigated of 75 mm at the spring 3-leaf stage and anthesis stage, respectively; W1, irrigated of 75 mm at spring 4-leaf stage) and nitrogen levels (180, 240, 300 and 360 kg N ha− 1; denoted as N1, N2, N3 and N4, respectively) on grain yield, water consumption and economic efficiency.
Results
The findings demonstrated that W1 reduced evapotranspiration, increased soil water consumption and enhanced water consumption from jointing to anthesis stage. However, W1 irrigation resulted 3.3–11.6% yield loss compared to W2. Adjusting nitrogen fertilizer inputs (300 kg N ha− 1) under W1 can achieves high spike number, flag leaf photosynthetic capacity and harvest index, ultimately resulted in a highest grain yield (8351.5 kg ha− 1). Additionally, W1N3 obtained the highest water use efficiency (20.5 kg ha− 1 mm− 1), irrigation water use efficiency (111.4 kg ha− 1 mm− 1), nitrogen agronomic efficiency (11.2 kg kg− 1), net income and benefit-cost ratio. Based on the water and nitrogen inputs to the yield and economic efficiency model, applying N at 278.8–297.8 kg ha− 1 under W1 conditions achieved 95–100% of the maximum yield and net income.
Conclusions
These results may provide a scientific foundation for optimizing irrigation and nitrogen management and enhancing local farmers’ economic efficiency.
Long-Term Outcomes of Catheter Ablation for Ventricular Arrhythmias: Comparing Techniques with and without Intracardiac Echocardiography - What Matters?
Authors: Lin Mingjie , Ma Chuanzhen , Rong Bing , Zhang Kai , Chen Tongshuai , Wang Juntao , Han Wenqiang , Zhong Jingquan , Wu Lin
Published: February 2024

Background
he increasing use of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) in the ablation of premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) has raised questions about its true efficacy and safety.
Methods
This retrospective study collected the periprocedural complications and PVC burden post ablation. The risk factors of PVC recurrence was further explored.
Results
The study included patients treated without ICE (control group, n=451) and with ICE (ICE group, n=155) from May 2019 to July 2022. The ICE group demonstrated significantly lower fluoroscopy times and X-ray doses. There were no major complications in the ICE group, and the difference in the occurrence of periprocedural complications between the groups was not statistically significant (p=0.072). The long-term success rates were similar for the control and ICE groups (89.6% and 87.1%, respectively). The origin of PVCs was identified as the independent factor for ablation success.
Conclusions
The use of ICE did not confer an advantage with regard to long-term success in PVCs ablation. To thoroughly evaluate the safety and effectiveness of ICE in PVCs ablation, a prospective, multicenter, randomized study is warranted.
Inhibition of purine metabolism promotes the differentiation of the neuroblastoma driven by MYCN
Authors: Jiang Yufeng , Xiao Hui , Yang Yi , Zhang Yingwen , Wu Xiaoyu , Zhang Qi , Huang Qingyi , Gao Hongxiang , Han Yali , Zhang Anan , Jiang Dapeng , Zheng Liang , Li Yanxin , Gao Yijin
Published: February 2024

Background: Neuroblastoma is the common extracranial solid tumor in children, with a poor prognosis for high-risk patients. MYCN amplification is the most important molecular biomarker in the high-risk category. For MYCN’s “undruggable” properties--lack of enzymatic pocket for conventional small molecules to bind and inaccessibility for antibodies due to the predominant nucleus localization of MYCN, current therapeutic strategies have not significantly improved. It is known that MYCN can affect a variety of tumor metabolism and is closely related to tumor differentiation. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of purine metabolism on the maintenance of stemness in MYCN high-risk neuroblastoma and identify potential small molecule inhibitors that can enhance the differentiation of neuroblastoma cells.
Methods: Metabolic mass spectrometry data were used to analyze the differences in metabolites between neuroblastoma cell lines with high and low MYCN, and key metabolic enzymes were analyzed in conjunction with public RNA databases. Different neuroblastoma cell lines were treated with the small molecule inhibitor for cell differentiation, proliferation, colony formation, and cell migration analysis, to find inhibitors that are promotive for cell differentiation and validate them in vivo and in vitro.
Results: In our study, we found significant changes in nucleotide metabolism in NB cell lines with high MYCN compared to those with low MYCN. The expression of purine metabolic enzymes was positively correlated with MYCN expression, prognosis, and differentiation status in neuroblastoma. The small molecular lometrexol, a phosphoribosylglycinamide formyltransferase (GART) inhibitor, which blocks the de novo pathway of purine metabolism, can promote a pro-differentiation effect on neuroblastoma cells through in vivo and in vitro experiments and inhibit tumorigenesis.
Discussion: Our study suggested that lometrexol, the small molecule inhibitor of nucleotide metabolism, may contribute to improving treatment strategies for pediatric neuroblastoma, enhancing patient prognosis, and improving overall quality of life.
Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Swine Manure and Hydrolyzed Swine Carcasses at Two Different Biodigesters
Authors: Silva João Fernando Ferri da , Tápparo Deisi Cristina , Antes Fabiane Goldschmidt , Steinmetz Ricardo Luís Radis , Kunz Airton
Published: February 2024

This study compared the anaerobic co-digestion of hydrolyzed swine carcasses and swine manure at different organic loading rates (OLRs) in two different biodigesters, a covered lagoon biodigester (CLB) and a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). The OLR progression in the CSTR had increments of about 0.5 gVS L-1 d-1 over five different operating phases (160 days). The best performance was obtained with an OLR of 2.09 gVS L-1 d-1 and a methane productivity (MP) of 1.12 LN CH4 Lreactor-1 d-1. A high concentration of total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), mainly in the form of free ammonia (FA), resulted in inhibition of methanogenic activity, with volatile fatty acids (VFA) accumulating in the biodigester. In CLB, the OLR progressions was increased by approximately 0.08 gVS L-1 d-1 per phase over nine phases (260 days), with the best performance in OLR of 0.63 gVS L-1 d-1 and MP at 0.31 LN CH4 Lreactor-1 d-1. CLB was stable throughout most of the experiment, even at high OLRs. Despite the good MP, the CLB showed instability in the last two phases, where a significant increase in pH and FA concentration was observed. It can be concluded that the use of hydrolyzed swine carcasses in co-digestion with manure has a high potential for CH4 production. Although the TAN and FA concentrations had a significant effects on the process, the biodigesters performed satisfactorily.
A Game theory based Intrusion detection system for low constrained IoT devices.
Authors: Ambarkar Smita Sanjay , Shekokar Narendra
Published: February 2024

Through shady networks, heterogeneous devices are connected to build the Internet of Things (IoT). However, protecting an IoT network is of the utmost significance. The best option for protecting IoT networks is cryptography. Encrypting every piece of data is not desired, though, as it places a heavy computational burden on IoT devices with limited processing power. As a viable alternative, anomaly-based intrusion detection systems offer a way to secure low constraint devices. The majority of recent research has suggested employing energy- and computationally-intensive machine learning algorithms for IDS. The lack of a defined framework for recognising the attack is another challenge for machine learning-based intrusion detection systems (IDS), which must repeatedly train for each new attempt. This research suggests an energy-saving and false-positive rate-lowering IDS that is based on game theory. The suggested IDS offers a mathematical framework for attack detection. Furthermore, as the proposed IDS is only triggered in response to the appearance of a new attack signature, the system is appropriate for devices with low constraints.
Ammonium vanadate doped by hydrated manganese divalent ions for high-performance zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Hu Jidong , Li Yali , Shen Sijin , Dong Yunxia , Li Donghao , Chen Yongchao , Fu Yujun , He Deyan , Li Junshuai
Published: February 2024

Vanadium-based materials are considered as promising cathode materials in aqueous zinc-ion (Zn2+) batteries (AZIBs) because of their abundant valence states and adjustable ion diffusion channels. However, the slow kinetics of the Zn2+ intercalation and the instability of the layered structure during long cycle are the bottlenecks restricting their further development. In this paper, the hydrated manganese divalent ions (Mn2+) are introduced into ammonium vanadate (NH4V4O10) to partly replace the NH4+ ions to prepare a high-performance AZIB cathode. After doping hydrated Mn2+, the interlayer spacing of NH4V4O10 is enlarged, providing a broadened channel for the diffusion of Zn2+ accordingly. The results reveal that the electrode with the optimal doping quantity has a very high discharge capacity (539.4 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1) and excellent cyclic stability (85.3% retention of the initial capacity after 3000 cycles at 5 A g−1). A highly competitive energy density of 378 Wh kg−1 at 362 W kg−1 is delivered by the corresponding AZIB. Moreover, this method is a general and effective strategy for developing high-performance AZIB cathode materials, as demonstrated by the consistent crystal structure and stable cycling properties for NH4V4O10 doped with other transition bivalent metal cations.
Structural Basis for Expanded Substrate Specificities of Human Long Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase and Related Acyl- CoA Dehydrogenases
Authors: Narayanan Beena , Xia Chuanwu , McAndrew Ryan , Shen Anna L. , Kim Jung-Ja P.
Published: February 2024

Crystal structures of human long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (LCAD) and the E291Q mutant, have been determined. These structures suggest that LCAD harbors functions beyond its historically defined role in mitochondrial β-oxidation of long and medium-chain fatty acids. LCAD is a homotetramer containing one FAD per 43kDa subunit with Glu291 as the catalytic base. The substrate binding cavity of LCAD reveals key differences which makes it specific for longer and branched chain substrates. The presence of Pro132 near the start of the E helix leads to helix unwinding that, together with adjacent smaller residues, permits binding of bulky substrates such as 3α, 7α, l2α-trihydroxy-5β-cholestan-26-oyl-CoA. This structural element is also utilized by ACAD11, a eucaryotic ACAD of unknown function, as well as bacterial ACADs known to metabolize sterol substrates. Sequence comparison suggests that ACAD10, another ACAD of unknown function, may also share this substrate specificity. These results suggest that LCAD, ACAD10, ACAD11 constitute a distinct class of eucaryotic acyl CoA dehydrogenases.
Contrasting the potential range changes of Curculio davidi (Fairmaire) under future climate change in China
Authors: Wang Zhuoyuan , Zhuo Zhihang , Ali Habib , Li Xiushan , Xu Danping
Published: February 2024

Curculio davidi (Fairmaire) is found in all chestnut producing regions of the world and is a major fruit pest of chestnuts. In this work, the MaxEnt software was adopted to simulate the potential distribution of C. davidi in China under 19 bioclimatic variables. The mean AUC of the model was 0.988. Meaning that the predictions were extremely accurate and reliable. Research has shown that the current C. davidi highly suitable area has been 65251 km2, accounting for 0.68% of the total area of China. The area of moderate suitable areas under different future scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP5-8.5) increased by 22.12%-27.33% (2050s) and 17.80%-38.22% (2080s) compared with the existing distribution, and the area of highly suitable areas has been showing a trend of shrinking. The re-sults of the study showed that 6 climate factor variables, prec7, bio18, bio4, bio15, bio10, and prec5, contributed to the distribution of C. davidi. The jackknife test was used to determine the percentage contribution of six climatic factors affecting the distribution of C. davidi as prec7 (42.3%), bio18 (22.3%), bio4 (21.7%), bio15 (7.2%), bio10 (4.1%), prec5 (2.3%). This study has provided a reference for the scope and accuracy of pest control in C. davidi. It also offered a basis for how to take measures to control the spread of this pest as soon as possible under the back-ground of rapid climate change.
Clinical values of percutaneous peri-pancreatic drainage for management of blunt traumatic pancreatic neck transection in adult patients
Authors: Xia Weiliang , Shen Chanjuan , Shen Yan
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Surgical resection or surgical peri-pancreatic drainage was recommended for patients with blunt traumatic pancreatic neck transection. Peri-pancreatic drainage could be also achieved percutaneously, termed as percutaneous peri-pancreatic drainage (PPPD) in this study. The clinical values of PPPD for patients with blunt traumatic pancreatic neck transection were evaluated in this study.
Methods
Patients with blunt traumatic pancreatic neck transection treated by either surgical resection (n = 5) or PPPD (n = 13) were enrolled in this study, pancreas-related events and prognosis were compared between the surgical resection group and the PPPD group.
Results
The patients of surgical resection and PPPD groups were comparable in background characteristics except for the concomitant abdominal injuries (60% in the surgical resection group and 7.7% in the PPPD group, P = 0.044). The rates of post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and mortality of the surgical resection group are both 20%. All the 13 patients in PPPD group discharged with the external drainage tube which were removed successfully in 12 (92.3%) patients in whom the drainage tube maintenance was 3.0 (2.8, 4.0) months. PPPD was failed in 1 (7.7%) patient who received Roux-en-Y anastomosis between the jejunum and the thickened fistula wall successfully. Three (3/12, 25%) patients developed main pancreatic duct stricture as a long-term complication of PPPD management.
Conclusions
PPPD could be performed safely and effectively for blunt traumatic pancreatic neck transection patients. Delayed internal drainage can be used as a salvage treatment in the case of failed PPPD. Main pancreatic duct stricture is the long-term complication of PPPD management.
Detection and identification of Ephedra Herba seed pests based on X-rays and DNA barcodes
Authors: xiao xiaohouhong , Guo Yuan-Ru , Zhang Ling-Yu , Luo Lu , Wu Wen-Guang , Gao Ji-Hai , Xu Fan , Cao Gang , Shang Wei , Hu Hao-Yu , Xu Jiang , Chen Shilin
Published: February 2024

As an important natural medicinal resource for humans, Ephedra sinica Stapf often suffers from various biological stresses during its growth process. One of the pests that pose a threat to Ephedra is the Ephedra seed pest. Its primary mode of damage is laying eggs inside the Ephedra seeds, where they develop and eventually emerge as adult wasps, causing significant damage to the seeds. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of X-ray for Ephedra seed pest detection, the impact on the use value of Ephedra seeds infested by pests, and the further confirmation of pest species information. The mature Ephedra seeds from the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region were taken as the teste object. The results showed that the germination rates of three different batches of seeds were 46%, 40%, and 38%, while the seedling emergence rates were only 36%, 30%, and 32%, respectively, significantly lower than that of control healthy seeds 66% and 52%. The phylogenetic tree Neighbor-Joining (NJ) was constructed by extracting the COI sequences of the pest samples, and was identified as a new species of Eurytoma genus based on morphological characteristics. X-ray detection is a commonly used, non-invasive method. Based on non-destructive X-ray testing, the quality of Ephedra seeds could be classified into three types: healthy plump seeds, seeds infested by pests, and underdeveloped hollow seeds. In conclusion, the combined use of X-ray and DNA barcoding methods can achieve rapid and accurate detection and identification of E. sinica seed pests, which is of great significance for the management and control of Ephedra seed production.
A Novel Classification of Posterior Pelvic Exenteration to Assess Prognosis in Female Patients with Locally Advanced Primary Rectal Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study from China PelvEx Collaborative
Authors: Li Yuegang , Zhuang Meng , Hu Gang , Zhang Jinzhu , Qiu Wenlong , Mei Shiwen , Tang Jianqiang
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Surgical techniques and the prognosis of posterior pelvic exenteration for locally advanced primary rectal cancer in female patients pose challenges that warrant additional assessment. Therefore, we compared short-term and survival outcomes of posterior pelvic exenteration in female patients using a novel Peking classification.
Methods
We retrospectively analysed a prospective database from China PelvEx Collaborative in three tertiary referral centres. A total of 172 patients who underwent combined resection for locally advanced primary rectal cancer were classified into four subtypes (PPE-I [64/172], PPE-II [68/172], PPE-III [21/172], and PPE-IV [19/172]) according to the Peking classification; perioperative characteristics and short-term and oncological outcomes were analysed.
Results
Differences were significant among the four groups regarding colorectal reconstruction (p < 0.001), vaginal reconstruction (p < 0.001), in-hospital complications (p < 0.05), and urinary retention (p < 0.05). The R0 resection rates for PPE-I, PPE-II, PPE-III, and PPE-IV were 90.6%, 89.7%, 90.5%, and 89.5%, respectively. The 5-year overall survival rates of the PPE-I, PPE-II, PPE-III, and PPE-IV groups were 73.4%, 68.8%, 54.7%, and 37.3%, respectively. Correspondingly, their 5-year disease-free survival rates were 76.0%, 62.5%, 57.7%, and 43.1%, respectively. Notably, PPE-IV demonstrated the lowest 5-year overall survival rate (p < 0.001) and 5-year disease-free survival rate (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The Peking classification can aid in determining suitable surgical techniques and conducting prognostic assessments in female patients with locally advanced primary rectal cancer.
Calibration of the contact parameters for soybean-bonded particle model based on DEM
Authors: Han Dandan , Wang Qing , Tang Chao , Li Wei , Xu You
Published: February 2024

To retrieve the simulation contact parameters of the soybean-bonded particle for an effective gas-solid two-phase flow coupling simulation analysis of the working procedure of the pneumatic seed-metering device, the angle of repose (AoR) and angle of stacking (AoS) from the physical seed-piling test were captured as the evaluation indexes. The Plackett-Burman test and the steepest ascent test were ratified to simplify the simulation analysis of the soybean-bonded particles, screening out the crucial influenced factors and centroids. The Box-Behnken response surface test was then implemented to identify the desired saliency factor values, and the universality of the calibrated contact parameters for soybean-bonded particles synthesized with varying fraction particle sizes was eventually confirmed. The results revealed that the effect of the static friction coefficient of soybean-plexiglass (µp−g) on AoR was exceedingly significant, and that of the static and rolling friction coefficients of soybean-soybean (µp−p & Cp−p) was generally prominent. While it was abundantly clear that both µp−p and Cp−p supremely affected AoS. The optimal values determined by the Box-Behnken response surface test yielded ideal values of 0.0678 for µp−p, 0.2453 for µp−g, and 0.0079 for Cp−p, culminating in an AoR of 28.32° and AoS of 28.76°, respectively. Based on the derived optimal simulation contact parameters, the maximal error between the simulated and measured values of AoR and AoS of soybean-bonded particles constructed with various fraction particle sizes was estimated to be 1.59%, implying that the calibrated contact parameters have a superior generality. The insights of this investigation can be effectively applied to the coupled simulation analysis of the pneumatic soybean seed-metering device’s operations, as well as a reference for other researchers to erect particle models for DEM simulation using the bonded particle method.
Anthraquinone and its derivatives as a recyclable photocatalyst for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B in Water under visible light
Authors: Jiang Dabo , Zhang Mayin , Meng Wenyi , Zhou Junzuo , Liang Shuting , Yang Tao , Yang Cheng , Su Anqun , Zhang Guanghui , Xu Longjun
Published: February 2024

This study presents findings that suggest it is possible to fine-tune and enhance the optical properties of anthraquinone (AQ) and its photocatalytic performance in the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) at the molecular level through varying its keleton substituents. Specifically, the electron-withdrawing substituent demonstrates a more pronounced improvement effect compared to the electron-donating substituent. Among them, 2-carboxyanthraquinone (AQ-COOH) demonstrated the most exceptional photocatalytic activity, affording 99.9% degradation rate under visible light irradiation for 30 min. It is noteworthy that a hydrochloric acid solution with a concentration of 0.5 mmol·L− 1 has a considerable promoting impact on the photodegradation of RhB catalyzed by AQ-COOH, and that the total degradation of RhB can be accomplished in 15 min. In addition, AQ-COOH also has good applicability for the degradation of tetracycline, methylene blue, and methyl orange. As a recyclable solid catalyst, the catalytic activity of AQ-COOH remained mostly unchanged after being used five times. Additionally, AQ-COOH did not undergo degradation when exposed to visible light, indicating its excellent stability in the process of catalyzing RhB degradation. According to quenching experiments and EPR spectrum characterizations, the photo-generated active species oxygen vacancies (h+), photogenerated electrons (e−), superoxide free radicals (O2•−), singlet oxygen (1O2) and hydroxyl radical (•OH) are involved in the hypothesized photo-catalytic degradation mechanism.
Sodium butyrate inhibits ferroptosis and ameliorates intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury by modulating the NRF2/SLC7A11/GPX4 pathway
Authors: Zhao Zicen , Leng Yufang , Chang Liya , Wang Yu , Li Dongbin , Xing Yang , Wu Yuxuan
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Sodium butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid produced by the metabolism of intestinal flora, has been shown to have a protective effect against intestinal ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI), but its effect on intestinal IRI-associated ferroptosis has not yet been demonstrated.
Methods
In this experiment, we used a model of superior mesenteric artery occlusion in mice to examine the effects and principles of sodium butyrate on ferroptosis related to intestinal IRI. We assessed the role of sodium butyrate by constructing mice intestinal IRI models and determining the extent of intestinal tissue damage and changes in ferroptosis-related factors.
Results
Results show that Intestinal IRI mice showed increased tissue damage, massive infiltration of inflammatory cells, severe destruction of villus structure, and elevated MDA. In addition, intestinal IRI led to downregulation of GSH, GPX4, FTH1 and SLC7A11, regulators of ferroptosis, and a rise in Fe2+, as well as downregulation of NRF2 by intestinal IRI. Sodium butyrate had an attenuating effect on intestinal IRI, whereas mice exogenously supplemented with sodium butyrate showed less tissue damage, some restoration of villus structure and decreased MDA, up-regulation of GSH, GSH/GSSG, GPX4, FTH1, SLC7A11, and NRF2, and decreased Fe2+.
Conclusion
This experiment demonstrates that sodium butyrate regulates the SLC7A11/GPX4 pathway by up-regulating NRF2, thereby inhibiting ferroptosis and attenuating intestinal IRI.
Photonic crystal broadband 1×N beam splitter with designable splitting ratio based on genetic algorithm
Authors: Ke Hang , Li Peili , Shi Pengcheng , Shi Weihua
Published: February 2024

A novel broadband Y-shaped 1×N beam splitter based on two-dimensional photonic crystal is proposed in this paper. Firstly, a broadband 1×2 beam splitting structure with designable splitting ratio is proposed. The influence of the offset along the z-axis of the dielectric rods adjacent to the input and output waveguides, and the offset of the dielectric rods at the junctions on the broadband performance of the 1×2 splitting structure is studied. Then, based on the structure, the broadband 1×4 and 1×8 beam splitters with designable splitting ratio are proposed. According to the target of the specific performance, using genetic algorithm, the broadband 1×4 and 1×8 beam splitters with different splitting ratios can be inversely designed, which not only improves the optimization efficiency, but also achieves excellent broadband splitting performance. The results show that the 1×4 beam splitters proposed have the additional loss less than 0.352dB and the response time less than 0.2ps within 1515~1590nm. The 1×8 beam splitters proposed have the additional loss less than 0.382dB and the response time less than 0.3ps within 1519~1587nm. Due to the advantages of broad operating bandwidth, flexible design of splitting ratio, high transmittance and fast response speed, the proposed 1×N beam splitters have wide application prospects in the fields of photonic integrated circuits, passive optical net-work, etc.
PACS: 42.79.Fm, 42.70.Qs, 42.82.Et
Classification of cyberbullying in social media using Natural Language Programming method
Authors: Vivekananth P , Sharma Navneet
Published: February 2024

The evolution of internet describes the usage of Social Media (SM) which expands drastically. This involvement continues to increase in context with the current global epidemic since people frequently use SM platforms to vent their feelings. Similarly, the widespread adoption of SM sites like Facebook and Twitter by many organizations has raised the volume of essential individual input regarding the state of affairs, events, goods, and services. One of the major drawbacks that widespread SM usage is cyberbullying. The frequency of cyberbullying on SM platforms has raised serious concerns for people, organizations, and society at large. To minimize negative impacts due to cyberbullying on SM, early detection is essential. As a result, Sentiment Analysis (SA) utilizing Twitter data has gained prominence. Text analysis-related Natural Language Processing (NLP) and in Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies have gained increased attention because of increasing demand for SM analysis. Moreover, the important fields utilized to proactively extract and train high-quality characteristics from low-level text involved is Machine Learning (ML). The Convolution Neural Network (CNN) models are Deep Learning (DL) methods to train data like text, picture, and video data. Improved text classification is achieved by preparing these data types using CNN as a persuasive method. To categorize the bullying text, this study discusses the Ensemble model that integrates Modified Term Frequency and Inverse Document Frequency (MTF-IDF), and Deep Neural Network (DNN) with sophisticated feature extraction approaches. From the text data, the cyberbullying feature patterns are extracted using the techniques of feature extraction.
Food Segmentation and Calorie Estimation of Coastal Food Delicacies
Authors: Khaleel Ibrahim Khaleel , Shetty Navya S , Poojary Manish , K Dhanush , Chaithra  , Mallya Rakesh , K Soorya Krishna , Kannadaguli Prashanth
Published: February 2024

With the growing interest in using artificial intelligence (AI) for nutritional analysis, complex models have been developed to calculate the calorie content of various foods. In this study, we employ Machine Learning (ML) techniques for estimating calories in seafood dishes. To enhance accuracy and resilience, the model combines two popular algorithms: linear regression and k-nearest neighbors (KNN). Seaside food, renowned for its rich and varied flavors, presents a unique challenge in calorie estimation due to the variety of ingredients and cooking techniques used. The proposed machine learning model addresses these challenges by identifying complex patterns in the dataset while considering the unique qualities of coastal cuisine. The KNN algorithm, by finding local patterns in the dataset, enhances the model's efficacy, making it adept at capturing the subtleties of regional variations in coastal food. Additionally, the linear regression model complements the KNN approach by highlighting more general patterns and connections among different components, cooking methods, and caloric content. The training and assessment dataset comprise an extensive compilation of seaside cuisine dishes, each labeled with precise calorie counts. The model is trained to generalize from this data, enabling it to predict the calorie content of previously unseen dishes accurately. Performance evaluation indicates that the combined KNN and linear regression model outperforms individual algorithms in terms of accuracy and generalization across a variety of coastal cuisines.
Is Skin Thinning a Natural Consequence of Aging or a Result of Sarcopenia? A Case-Control Study
Authors: Tuna Serpil , Eren Sevil
Published: February 2024

Background: It is widely accepted that skin thickness decreases and fragility increases with aging. However, the relationship between skin thickness and sarcopenia, a common condition in the elderly associated with an increased risk of fragility, remains unknown.
Objective: We aimed to investigate the presence of skin thinning in sarcopenia patients and explore the relationship between age, sarcopenia, and skin thickness.
Methods: This case-control study included a total of 66 individuals (33 individuals with sarcopenia, 33 healthy controls) aged 40 to 80 years. In all patients, total skin (epidermal + dermal) thickness was measured using ultrasound (US) at the leg, hand, forearm, and upper arm.
Results: Skin thickness in all regions was significantly lower in patients with sarcopenia compared to controls (all p < 0.05). Controlling for potential confounders, including age, sex, and body mass index, revealed a significant relationship between sarcopenia and skin thickness.
Conclusion: Sarcopenia was found to be associated with skin thinning in all regions and BMI is positively correlated only with leg skin thickness. However, age and gender were not found to be associated with skin thickness.
Depression and Long-term Mortality among 5-year Breast Cancer Survivors in Korea: A Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Su Kyoung , Park Sangwoo , Park Sang Min
Published: February 2024

Background
Depression is common and harmful among breast cancer survivors, but it may be neglected and untreated in non-Western settings. We examined the association of depression after breast cancer diagnosis with long-term mortality risk in a Korean cohort.
Methods
We used data from the National Health Insurance Service cancer patients cohort database of South Korea. We included women aged 40 or older who were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2007 and 2013, survived at least 5 years, and had no depression history. Depression was defined as hospitalization for more than 2 days due to depression (ICD-10 code F22 or F23) after diagnosis. We assessed all-cause, cancer-specific, and non-cancer-specific mortality by Cox proportional hazards model, adjusting for covariates.
Results
Among 30,371 women (mean [SD] age, 56.5 [11.4] years), 30,371 had depression. During the 5-year period, 1,904 deaths occurred (33.6 per 1,000 person-years). Depression patients had higher risks of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.38; 95% CI, 1.03–1.86) and non-cancer-specific mortality (aHR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.14–2.86) compared to non-depression patients with Charlson comorbidity index of 2 or more. Cancer mortality was not significantly different. All-cause mortality was also higher for depression patients aged 65 or older (aHR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.27–3.03).
Conclusions
Depression was linked to increased mortality among 5-year breast cancer survivors, especially for non-cancer causes. This study implies the need for depression screening and treatment among breast cancer patients, especially in non-Western settings where depression may be underdiagnosed and undertreated.
VGLL4, a promising biomarker, promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancer stemness via the Wnt pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Pan Juan-yong , Wang Gao-Xiong , Chen Shi
Published: February 2024

Vestigial-like family member 4 (VGLL4) is involved in cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Pancancer analysis revealed that VGLL4 is differentially expressed in multiple tumors and may be associated with poor survival in patients. There are still few reports about the role of VGLL4 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and these findings are controversial. Herein, we present our findings on VGLL4 in HCC and suggest strategies for further research. Through bioinformatics analyses, we found that VGLL4 was highly expressed in HCC and that this high expression was associated with poor prognosis. In addition we found that VGLL4 had greater diagnostic efficacy for HCC than AFP. To verify the results of the bioinformatics analyses, we conducted a series of experiments. First, we constructed HepG2 cell lines with high VGLL4 expression. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), wound healing and Transwell assays revealed that HepG2 cells overexpressing VGLL4 had advantages in terms of cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Further bioinformatics analysis revealed that the expression level of VGLL4 in HCC cells was positively correlated with the number of stromal cells. In view of the relationship between stromal cells and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stemness, we found by further western blot that β-catenin, transcription factor 4 (TCF4), c-Myc, vimentin, N-cadherin, CD44 and CD133 were significantly elevated in HepG2 cells overexpressing VGLL4. We conclude that VGLL4 is a promising novel marker of HCC that promotes EMT and cancer stemness via the Wnt pathway in HCC.
From past habitats to present threats: Tracing North American weasel distributions through a century of climate and land use change
Authors: Cheeseman Amanda E. , Jachowski David S. , Kays Roland
Published: February 2024

Context: Shifts in climate and land use have dramatically reshaped ecosystems, impacting the distribution and status of wildlife populations. For many species, data gaps limit inference regarding population trends and links to environmental change. This deficiency hinders our ability to enact meaningful conservation measures to protect at risk species.
Objectives: We investigated historical drivers of environmental niche change for three North American weasel species (American ermine, least weasel, and long-tailed weasel) to understand their response to environmental change.
Methods: Using species occurrence records and corresponding environmental data, we developed species-specific environmental niche models for the contiguous United States (1938-2021). We generated annual hindcasted predictions of the species’ environmental niche, assessing changes in distribution, area, and fragmentation in response to environmental change.
Results: We identified a 53.96% decline in suitable habitat alongside high levels of fragmentation for least weasels and region-specific trends for American ermine and long-tailed weasels; declines in the West and increased suitability in the East. Climate and land use were important predictors of the environmental niche for all species. Changes in habitat amount and distribution reflected widespread land use changes over the past century while declines in southern and low-elevation areas are consistent with impacts from climatic change.
Conclusions: Our models uncovered land use and climatic change as potential historic drivers of population change for North American weasels and provide a basis for management recommendations and targeted survey efforts. We identified potentially at-risk populations and a need for landscape-level planning to support weasel populations amid ongoing environmental changes.