bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revealing Hidden Genes in Botrytis cinerea: New Insights into Genes Involved in the Biosynthesis of Secondary Metabolites
Authors: Suárez Ivonne , Collado Isidro G. , Garrido Carlos
Published: April 2024

Utilizing bioinformatics tools, this study expands our understanding of secondary metabolism in Botrytis cinerea, identifying novel genes within polyketide synthase (PKS), non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS), sesquiterpene cyclase (STC), diterpene cyclase (DTC), and dimethylal-lyltryptophan synthase (DMATS) families. These findings enrich the genetic framework associ-ated with B. cinerea's pathogenicity and ecological adaptation, offering insights into uncharted metabolic pathways. Significantly, the discovery of previously unannotated genes provides new molecular targets for developing targeted antifungal strategies, promising to enhance crop pro-tection and advance our understanding of fungal biochemistry. This research not only broadens the scope of known secondary metabolites but also opens avenues for future exploration into B. cinerea's biosynthetic capabilities, potentially leading to novel antifungal compounds. Our work underscores the importance of integrating bioinformatics and genomics for fungal research, paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices by pinpointing precise molecular interven-tions against B. cinerea. This study sets a foundation for further investigations into the fungus's secondary metabolism, with implications for biotechnology and crop disease management.
Updates on the Management of Colorectal Cancer in Older Adults
Authors: O’Donnell Conor DJ , Hubbard Joleen , Jin Zhaohui
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant global health challenge. Notably, the risk of CRC escalates with age, with the majority of cases occurring in those above the age of 65. Despite recent progress in tailoring treatments for early and advanced CRC, there is a lack of prospective data to guide the management of older patients, who are frequently underrepresented in clinical trials. This article reviews the contemporary landscape of managing older individuals with CRC, highlighting recent advancements and persisting challenges. The role of comprehensive geriatric assessment is explored. Opportunities for treatment escalation/de-escalation, with consideration of the older adult’s fitness level are reviewed in the neoadjuvant, surgical, adjuvant and metastatic settings of colon and rectal cancers. Immunotherapy is shown as an effective option treatment in older adults that have CRC with microsatellite instability. Promising new technologies such as circulating tumor DNA and recent phase III trials adding later line systemic therapy options are discussed. Clinical recommendations based on the data available are summarized. We conclude that deliberate efforts to include older individuals in future colorectal cancer trials are essential to better guide the management of these patients in this rapidly evolving field.
Synergistic effect of postbiotic yeast ABB C22® on gut in-flammation, barrier function and protection from Rotavirus in-fection
Authors: Carrera Marcolin Lydia , Cuñé Castellana Jordi , Martí Melero Laia , de Lecea Carlos , Tintoré Gazulla Maria
Published: April 2024

Diarrhoea is a serious cause of mortality worldwide that can lead to dehydration, gut barrier function impairment, nutrient malabsorption, and alterations of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis). Current solutions for its management, such as oral rehydration salts (ORS), inhibitors of the gut motility, antibiotics, and living probiotics only partially counteract the mechanisms of the disease and do not provide a full coverage of the problem. Potential risks of the use of living probiotic strains, particularly in immunocompromised patients, can be eliminated with the use of tyndallized (heat-killed) postbiotic bacteria and yeast. ABB C22® is a postbiotic combination of three tyndallized yeasts, namely Saccharomyces boulardii, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Kluyveromyces marxianus. To assess the action of the postbiotic combination on diarrhoea, immune and gut epithelial cell signaling assays, gut barrier formation assay and rotavirus gene expression assay were performed. ABB C22® showed a strong anti-inflammatory effect, an induction of the build-up of the gut epithelium, and a degree of protection against rotavirus infection. These experimental studies support the use of the postbiotic ABB C22® as a solution for the management of diarrhoea and gastrointestinal conditions, alone or in combination with existing but incomplete treatments.
Comprehensive Overview of Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies against SARS-COV-2 Variants
Authors: Cui Lingyan , Li Tingting , Xue Wenhui , Zhang Sibo , Wang Hong , Liu Hongjing , Gu Ying , Xia Ningshao , Li Shaowei
Published: April 2024

Currently, SARS-CoV-2 has evolved into various variants, including the numerous highly mutated Omicron sub-lineages, significantly increasing immune evasion ability. The development raises concerns about possibly diminished effectiveness of available vaccines and antibody-based therapeutics. Here, we describe those representative categories of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) that retain prominent effectiveness against emerging variants including Omicron sub-lineages. The molecular characteristics, epitope conservation, and resistance mechanisms of these antibodies are further detailed, aiming to offer suggestion or direction for the development of therapeutic antibodies, and facilitate the vaccine design with broad-spectrum potential.
Pharmacists’ Behavioral Change after Attending a Palliative Care Education Program in a Multi-Prefecture
Authors: Yamada Masahiro , Uchida Mayako , Hada Masao , Wakabaashi Haruka , Inma Daigo , Ariyoshi Shunji , Kamimura Hidetoshi , Haraguchi Tohru
Published: April 2024

Pharmacists must acquire the necessary knowledge to provide better drug therapy to patients. In other words, educational programs need to facilitate behavioral changes among pharmacists. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate how the behavior of pharmacists changed after attending a palliative care educational program. We conducted a web-based questionnaire survey examining the behavior of pharmacists regarding palliative care before participating in the program, two months after participating in the program, and eight months after participating in the program, to determine the behavior and changes over time. For all questions, scores were higher at two and eight months after attending the program than before attending the program (P <0.05). In addition, no significant difference was observed between two and eight months after attending the program for all questions (P =0.504-1.000). The knowledge gained from the educational program was used to repeatedly intervene with patients with cancer, to address the various symptoms they experienced and maintain their behavior. The proven effectiveness of this program serves as a stepping stone for a nationwide rollout across Japan’s 47 prefectures.
An Approach to Evaluate Healthcare Service Quality by Incorporating Linguistic Assessment and Computing
Authors: Wang Wen-Pai , Huang Mei-Ling , Ou Yen-Chuan
Published: April 2024

The quality of healthcare services is a very important indicator of social welfare in developed and emerging countries. Good quality levels are critical to ensuring patient safety, improving health outcomes, increasing patient satisfaction, optimizing resource utilization, and meeting regulatory requirements. The stable and sustainable operation of medical institutions urgently requires the establishment of a reliable and effective medical quality performance evaluation platform. However, the complexity of the evaluation process, involving numerous evaluators and the consideration of different subjective and objective criteria, poses significant challenges and essentially constitutes a group multi-criteria decision-making problem. This article uses the overall medical environment of the institution, medical service attitude, medical security, administrative service measures, etc. as measurement standards to deal with this challenge. It proposes a medical service quality measurement model suitable for both qualitative and quantitative analysis. In view of the heterogeneity of information, the two-tuple fuzzy language calculation method is introduced to enable evaluators to skillfully manage diverse information and effectively avoid potential information omission problems in the subjective evaluation integration process. The effectiveness and feasibility of the model were demonstrated by applying it to the operational framework of a medical institution in central Taiwan.
A Simple Frailty Score Predicts Survival and Early Mortality in Systemic AL Amyloidosis
Authors: Ríos-Tamayo Rafael , Lecumberri Ramón , Cibeira Maria Teresa , Gonzalez-Calle Veronica , Alonso Rafael , Domingo Amalia , Landete Elena , Encinas Cristina , Iñigo Belén , Blanchard Maria Jesus , Alejo Elena , Krsnik Isabel , Gómez-Bueno Manuel , Garcia-Pavia Pablo , Segovia-Cubero Javier , Rosiñol Laura , Lahuerta Juan-José , Martínez-López Joaquín , Bladé Joan
Published: April 2024

Systemic AL amyloidosis is a challenging disease for which many patients are considered frail in daily clinical practice. However, no study has so far addressed frailty and its impact on the outcome of these patients. We built a simple score to predict mortality based on three frailty-associated variables: age, ECOG performance status (<2 vs. 2) and NT-proBNP (<8500 vs. 8500 ng/L). Four-hundred and sixteen consecutive newly diagnosed patients diagnosed at ten sites from the Spanish Myeloma Group were eligible for the study. The score was developed in a derivation cohort from a referral center, and it was externally validated in a multicenter cohort. On multivariate analysis the three variables were independent predictors of survival. The score was able to discriminate four groups of patients in terms of overall survival and early mortality in both cohorts. Comorbidity was also analyzed with the Charlson comorbidity index, but it did not reach statistical significance in the model. A nomogram was created to easily estimate the mortality risk of each patient at each time point. This score is a simple, robust, and efficient approach to dynamically assess frailty-dependent mortality both at diagnosis and throughout the follow-up. The optimal treatment for frail AL amyloidosis patients remains to be determined but we suggest that the estimation of frailty-associated risk could complement current staging systems, adding value in clinical decision-making in this complex scenario.
Design of Lipid Nanoparticles of mRNA Vaccine against Respiratory Syncytial Virus by Bioinformatics in Egypt
Authors: Kassab Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Background:
Respiratory syncytial virus[ RSV] is a lethal overwhelming defectiveness that influences people all over the world. The infection gets down in the lower respiratory tract and does not disperse to the remainder of the body.
The objective of the study:
Bioinformatics was used to create an mRNA vaccine against the Respiratory syncytial virus( RSV).
Methodology:
Lipid nanoparticle vaccines containing the Respiratory syncytial virus's surface fusion protein's mRNA were created for the current screening experimental investigation. Lipid nanoparticles[ LNP] with a particle size of around 90 nanometres that were created using the hot micro-emulsion process comprise the current vaccine delivery system. In stages 1 and 2 of clinical trials, the immunogenicity of the current mRNA RSV vaccine was evaluated.
Results:
The current vaccine demonstrated 81% immunogenicity in animal testing, but only 69% in stages 1 and 2 of clinical trials. Its side effects were manageable. The results persisted for a while. In the current trial, the vaccination proved effective as a preventative measure against RSV infection. The current immunization lacks antibody-dependent enhancement, which causes non-protective antibodies to develop. These non-neutralizing antibodies worsen infection by enhancing viral entrance and replication in the host cells, activating cytokines and the complement cascade through the production of immunological complexes, or both. However, the current LPN-RSV mRNA vaccine of the surface fusion protein resulted in the formation of potent neutralizing antibodies with persistent protection, especially for newborns and elderly individuals who get the ideal dose regimen.
Conclusion:
The invention of the LNP-mRNA RSV vaccine, which might prevent RSV-caused bronchiolitis and fatal pneumonia, made the current study promising
Aplikovaný výzkum fenoménu dehumanizace ve Rwandě
Authors: Kolman Ondřej
Published: April 2024

The study discusses the applied research conducted by the author in Rwanda. The aim was to confirm or refute the basic thesis of the key relevance of situational factors for the construction of dehumanization and the initiation of mass violence in Rwandan society in general. The respondents in the field research were perpetrators and victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Semi-structured interview was chosen as the qualitative research method.
CAUSAS ESTRUCTURALES DE LA DESIGUALDAD SOCIAL; TRABAJADORES MIGRATORIOS EN CENTROAMÉRICA Y EL MARCO DE PROTECCIÓN DE LOS DERECHOS HUMANOS
Authors: Martínez Pérez Ricardo Antonio , Islas Colín Alfredo , López Martínez Cecia Bernice
Published: April 2024

In this research, the structural causes of social inequality suffered by migrant workers from Central America will be explained and analyzed, as well as the human rights protection system. The aim is to identify the factors that influence the expulsion of migrants from Central America, also the legal system for protection of human rights is constituted and the warranties they have in their transit and stay in the receiving places are studied. Finally, a delimitation of the conceptual theoretical framework is proposed in light of international human rights law.
NUEVA LEY DE MODIFICACIONES ESTRUCTURALES SOCIETARIAS: PRECAUCIONES CONTRACTUALES ESPECÍFICAS DESDE LA PERSPECTIVA DE LOS FINANCIADORES
Authors: Herrero Mazarío César
Published: April 2024

The structure of the new LME differs substantially from that of Law 3/2009 as it has a general part applicable to all structural modifications, internal and cross-border, and a special part, which includes the regime applicable to each type of internal structural modification, intra-European and extra-European cross-border structural modifications.
NORMATIVA EUROPEA E ITALIANA SOBRE HARINAS DE GRILLO: NUEVA FRONTERA DE LOS NUEVOS ALIMENTOS
Authors: Pasquariello Federica
Published: April 2024

Insects already make up a large part of the daily diet of hundreds of millions of people worldwide and in the European Farm to Fork strategy they are identified as an alternative protein source that could improve transition to a more sustainable food system. Indeed, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations in 2015, to be achieved by 2030, include: an end to poverty; an end to world hunger; the introduction of responsible patterns of production and consumption; and action to combat climate change.
Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis Identifies an Immunogenic Cell Death Signature for Predicting Prognosis and Therapeutic Responses in Glioblastoma
Authors: Chen Lei , Zhang Runze , Jin Qiu , Wang Xiuyu , Zhang Bingjie , Feng Xuequan
Published: April 2024

Background: Studies have shown that inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD) breaks down the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and controls tumor progression, but the relationship between ICD and glioblastoma (GBM) was unclear. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the potential prognostic value of ICD-related genes in GBM.
Methods: A total of 34 ICD-related genes were collected from various sources. Utilizing public databases, relevant data about GBM were extracted and analyzed by the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to section prognosis-related ICD gene modules. A risk model was developed using the Lasso algorithm, and its accuracy was confirmed by including an independent Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Enrichment analysis was employed to analyze the biological functions and pathways associated with these signals, and the tumor immune infiltration capacity was evaluated. The R package oncoPredict was used to infer the drug sensitivity of patients in different risk groups using the GDSC2 database with expression profiling data.
Results: Thirty-four ICD-related genes were differentially expressed in GBM samples and two gene modules significantly associated with prognosis were identified. Base on the two modules, VDR and CIDEB were identified as two signature genes for the prognostic prediction of GBM. Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that this signature was an independent factor for evaluating overall survival of GBM, and ROC curves also supported an effective prediction of the signature (1-year AUC: 0.667; 3-year AUC:0.727; 5-year AUC: 0.762). We observed that the high-risk group had higher immune cell infiltration and sensitivity to some drugs.
Conclusion: This work developed a novel ICD-related prognostic model for GBM patients. Our findings highlighted the potential of using ICD as a promising prognostic indicator in GBM, contributing to the current understanding of the intricate interplay between ICD and tumor microenvironment.
CNN and LSTM Approach for Soil Nutrient analysis for Sugarcane Crop
Authors: J Kavitha K , K Krishna Prasad
Published: April 2024

A new paradigm has been adopted in agricultural techniques, tools, and technology. To guarantee the implementation of site-specific crop management, which includes soil nutrient treatments according to crop requirements, precision agriculture is crucial. Soil nutrients are a major component in determining the growth of precision agriculture, which has gained global attention. One of the main challenges is more effective nutrient content detection as it guides well-planned nutrient-level-boosting routines. Many approaches, such using research labs and additional mobile labs, haven't shown to be very useful in helping farmers control their soil fertility. Taking advantage of the breakthroughs is severely hampered by factors like lack of knowledge and distance from research centers. In the work proposed, LSTM based RNN is employed to predict the Ph and nutrient values of the soil measured through microcontroller using sensor from the agricultural field. At the same time, RELU-CNN approach is applied to the soil images for measuring the same values. The values obtained from both the approaches are compared against each other so that the method may be made directly available to the farmers for evaluating the nutrient level of the soil and take necessary action. The approaches are measured in terms of quality parameters Recall, F1-Score, Accuracy, Precision and RMS value.
Determinants of Primary Healthcare Services Access by National Health Insurance Fund Capitated Members in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Authors: Were Barbara , Mwangi Eunice , Muiruri Lillian
Published: April 2024

Purpose
The study identifies provision of primary healthcare services using the capitated health model as a prerequisite for promoting positive healthcare outcomes for a country’s population. However, capitated members have continued to face challenges in accessing primary healthcare services despite enrolment in the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). This study sought to determine if variables such as patient knowledge of the NHIF benefit package, NHIF Premium Payment processes, selecting NHIF capitated health facilities, and NHIF Communication to citizens’ influences access to primary healthcare services.
Method
A cross-sectional analytical research design was adopted. Data was collected from patients who were using NHIF cards, who were drawn from health facilities. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire where some of the questions were rated using the Likert scale to enable the generation of descriptive statistics. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics which was conducted with the aid of SPSS version 25. Bivariate analysis was conducted utilizing Chi-square to facilitate the comparison of the independent and the dependent variables. Data was presented in tabular formats where each of the specific objectives was used as parameters of interest to the study.
Results
The study found that four independent variables (Patient knowledge of NHIF Benefit Package, NHIF Premium Payment processes, Selecting NHIF capitated Health Facility, and NHIF Communication to citizens) were significant predictors of access to capitated healthcare
services with significance values of .001, .001, .001 and .001 respectively at 95% significance level.
Conclusions
The study found that familiarity with the NHIF benefit package significantly influenced NHIF capitated members' access to primary healthcare services in Uasin Gishu County. While most members were aware of their healthcare entitlements, there's a need for increased awareness regarding access to surgical services and dependents' inclusion. Facility selection also played a crucial role, influenced by factors like freedom of choice, NHIF facility selection rules, facility appearance, and proximity to members' homes. NHIF communication positively impacted access, with effective communication channels aiding service accessibility. Premium payment processes also significantly linked with service access, influenced by factors such as payment procedures, premium awareness, payment schedules, registration waiting periods, and penalties for defaults. Overall, patient knowledge, NHIF communication, premium payment processes, and facility selection all contributed positively to NHIF capitated members' access to primary healthcare services in Uasin Gishu County.
Inferring Bladder Cancer Evolution from Mucosal Field Effects by Whole-Organ Spatial Mutational, Proteomic, and Metabolomic Mapping
Authors: Czerniak Bogdan , Lee Sangkyou , Jung Sung Yun , Kus Pawel , Bondaruk Jolanta , Lee June , Jaksik Roman , Putluri Nagireddy , Dinh Khanh , Cogdell David , Chen Huiqin , Wang Yishan , Chen Jiansong , Nevai Neema , Dinney Colin , Mendelsohn Cathy , McConkey David , Behringer Richard , Guo Charles , Wei Peng , Kimmel Marek
Published: April 2024

Multi-platform mutational, proteomic, and metabolomic spatial mapping was used on the whole-organ scale to identify the molecular evolution of bladder cancer from mucosal field effects. We identified complex proteomic and metabolomic dysregulations in microscopically normal areas of bladder mucosa adjacent to dysplasia and carcinoma in situ. The mutational landscape developed in a background of complex defects of protein homeostasis which included dysregulated nucleocytoplasmic transport, splicesome, ribosome biogenesis, and peroxisome. These changes were combined with altered urothelial differentiation which involved lipid metabolism and protein degradations controlled by PPAR. The complex alterations of proteome were accompanied by dysregulation of gluco-lipid energy-related metabolism. The analysis of mutational landscape identified three types of mutations based on their geographic distribution and variant allele frequencies. The most common were low frequency α mutations restricted to individual mucosal samples. The two other groups of mutations were associated with clonal expansion. The first of this group referred to as β mutations occurred at low frequencies across the mucosa. The second of this group called γ mutations increased in frequency with disease progression. Modeling of the mutations revealed that carcinogenesis may span nearly 30 years and can be divided into dormant and progressive phases. The α mutations developed gradually in the dormant phase. The progressive phase lasted approximately five years and was signified by the advent of β mutations, but it was driven by γ mutations which developed during the last 2–3 years of disease progression to invasive cancer. Our study indicates that the understanding of complex alterations involving mucosal microenvironment initiating bladder carcinogenesis can be inferred from the multi-platform whole-organ mapping.
Evaluating the Impact of Common Clinical Confounders on Performance of Deep-Learning based Sepsis Risk Assessment
Authors: Chaganti Shikha , Singh Vivek , Gent Alisdair Edward , Kamaleswaran Rishikesan , Kamen Ali
Published: April 2024

Machine learning based early identification of sepsis in the Emergency department remains a challenging problem, primarily due to the lack of a gold standard for sepsis diagnosis and the corresponding labels required as part of training. In this work, we present a deep learning based predictive model to enable early identification of patients at risk of developing sepsis based on data from the first 24 hours of admission. The predictive model is based on the existing routine blood test results commonly performed on patients CBC (Complete Blood Count), CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel), and Lipid panel, together with vitals, age and sex. To address the challenge of label uncertainty as a part of training process, we explore two different definitions, namely, Sepsis-3 and Adult Sepsis Event and analyze the advantages and drawbacks of each in the context of patient clinical parameters and comorbidities. We particularly analyze the influence of the ground truth label quality on the performance of the overall deep learning system. We see that the model is able to identify patients in the first 24 hours with 83.7% sensitivity and 80% specificity. Our findings underscore the limitations of using individual labels for sepsis and emphasize the superiority of ensemble classifiers based on multiple heterogeneous labels, in the identification of patients with sepsis. The variable performance of the model across different sub-cohorts with specific clinical conditions underscores the need for tailored approaches in sepsis diagnosis, particularly when dealing with patients with confounding comorbidities.
An evaluation of psychometric properties and utility of the Hope Index (HI): A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Dambi Jermaine Matewu , Shava Beatrice Kudzaishe , Mashunye Thandiwe , Dzapasi Lloyd , Mazarura Mutsa , Chibanda Dixon
Published: April 2024

Background: There has been an exponential increase in the number of positive psychological interventions, including hope interventions to foster well-being and decrease the huge burden of mental conditions. Consequently, there has also been an upsurge in the number of hope outcome measures. The Hope Index (HI) is extensively used, but the evidence of the psychometric performance of the is fragmented. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to critically appraise the psychometric properties of Hope Index.
Methods/design: Two independent and blinded reviewers will search articles in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsychINFO, ProQuest Dissertations, and Google Scholar. Thereafter, three independent reviewers will then screen the retrieved articles. The risk of bias across studies will then be evaluated using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. The quality of the psychometric properties will be rated using a pre-set criterion and, after that, synthesised using the modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) checklist.
Discussion: The proposed systematic review will appraise the collective evidence of the psychometric robustness of the HI. The review will also assist in identifying psychometrics that may require further evaluation and make recommendations on the feasibility and utility of the HI.
Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO pending.
Clinical significance of a panel tests in evaluating central nervous system infections
Authors: Jiang Fang , Yu WenJun , Jiao Xiaoyang , Si Mengya , Wang Xuehua
Published: April 2024

Aim
The FilmArray ME Panel is an emerging diagnostic method for detecting multiple pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We evaluated the clinical significance of the FilmArray ME Panel in the diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) infection.
Methods
CSF specimens of 130 patients with suspected CNS infection were analyzed, along with clinical and laboratory parameters.
Results
patients shared some clinical symptoms at presentation, including fever, headache, altered mental status, and focal neurologic deficits. In a total of 130 patients, pathogens were detected in 22 cases, which included eight bacterial infections, and fourteen viral infections. The predominant bacteria detected in CSF were Streptococcus pneumonia, while the most common virus was enterovirus. The FilmArray ME panel had a better coincidence rate with PCR for viral detection, but had higher sensitivity compared with conventional bacterial detection.
Conclusions
the FilmArray ME Panel provides rapid diagnosis that benefits enabling patients to be promptly treated, improving the effectiveness of treatment.
Paeonia ostii ‘Feng Dan’ plant regeneration through direct organogenesis and direct meristematic nodule culture
Authors: fan Chengcheng , li kexin , Xu Li , deng zhijun , deng shiming , Li jitao , mou jiaolin
Published: April 2024

Tissue culture is preferred for solving the shortcoming of low efficiency in terms of conventional propagation ways in tree peony, an economically important woody plant in China with various purposes. However, callus differentiation is hard to obtain during in vitro regeneration. Meristematic nodule (MN) is a favorable way capable of overcoming this problem, but possesses a lengthy process. Direct organogenesis excluding the callus step is needed to simplify the procedure. This study firstly presented a protocol of direct organogenesis and direct MNs induction and differentiation using cotyledon explant for in vitro regeneration of P.ostii ‘Feng Dan’. The highest direct MNs induction rate (41.67%) and frequency of direct organogenesis (DO) (66.67%) was achieved under the following procedure. The explants were pretreated in dedifferentiation induction medium (DIM) [Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with 2.27 µMthidiazuron (TDZ)+5.37 µM α-naphthylacetic acid (NAA)] for 10 days, and then the cotyledons without callus induced were transferred to differentiation medium (DM) [Woody plant medium (WPM) containing 2.02 µM N-(2-chloro-4-pyridyl)-N-phenylurea (CPPU)+2.27 µM TDZ and 4.04 µM CPPU+4.54 µM TDZ] respectively, with 6 subcultures, 90 days in total. The regenerated shoots rooted and transplanted successfully. Histological study conﬁrmed the process of DO and direct MNs induction, and revealed that shoots and MNs were originated from increased division of meristematic cell under cortical tissue, as well as from actively divided meristematic cells around vascular center. Moreover, shoots regenerated through MNs differentiation were originated from the epidermal and subepidermal cells. This study is an innovation and supplement in the field of in vitro regeneration in tree peony, and will be conductive to clonal micropropagation, fundamental studies of developmental biology and genetic transformation.
Identifying and validating the prognosis and potential significance of Mitophagy related genes in breast cancer
Authors: Zhao Hejia , Chen Yanjun , Feng Zihao , Qin Yifei , Lin Yan , Luo Jianting , Chen Sijin
Published: April 2024

Background
Breast cancer (BC) is a common malignant tumor with high incidence and mortality rates. Mitophagy refers to a selective form of autophagy that is believed to be closely related to the occurrence and progression of BC. Identifying the mitophagy-related sites associated with BC can help us gain a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of BC, laying the foundation for early diagnosis and effective treatment of BC.
Method
Firstly, we collected RNA seq expression data of BC from the GEO database and conducted differential analysis. The differential expression sites were intersected with mitophagy related sites from the GeneCards database to obtain BC related mitophagy genes. Then, K-M survival analysis and ROC diagnosis and treatment effectiveness analysis were performed to identify prognostic biomarkers of BC. Secondly, based on the expression of mitophagy related sites and survival status, we divided BC patients into high-risk and low-risk subgroups, and conducted immune infiltration and GSEA analysis on different subgroups to understand the potential impact of mitophagy on BC. Finally, IHC images based on the HPA database were used to validate the protein expression of BC prognostic biomarkers.
Result
Through dual validation of K-M survival analysis and ROC diagnosis-treatment efficacy analysis, we ultimately identified 9 mitophagy-related prognostic biomarkers for BC, and found their expression was significantly upregulated in BC tissues. In addition, the results showed that the degree of immune infiltration in the low-risk subgroup was considered higher than that in the high-risk subgroup.
Conclusion
This study unveiled the prognosis, degree of tissue immune infiltration, and significant pathway enrichment levels of mitophagy and BC, and identified 9 prognostically related biomarkers; this has laid the foundation for the development of early diagnostic methods and in-depth research on the pathogenesis of BC in the future.
Multi-layer Security and Power Efficiency Improvement with Blockchain Technology and NB-IoT
Authors: Mohammed Chand Pasha , Jha Sudan , Chopra Shakti Raj , Arora Krishan , Kumar Rakesh , Pradhan Nihar Ranjan
Published: April 2024

To increase the level of safety, precision, and openness of narrow-band IoT combined with blockchain. NB- IoT revolutionizes seamless connectivity for IoT devices in 3Gpp released 15, enabling long battery life and widespread coverage, its low-power consumption, enhanced penetration capabilities, promising a scalable and robust infrastructure for the future with integration of Blockchain technology presents a decentralized, immutable ledger system that ensures transparent and secure transactions across various industries, fostering trust without intermediaries and reducing fraud risks significantly. Its cryptographic principles and distributed nature empower industries by enabling traceability, enhancing data integrity, and revolutionizing traditional processes of supply chain management, our approach provides distributed data authentication while simultaneously creating a layer-based blockchain with NB- IoT proposing in this paper 16 QAM OFDM modulation technique optimizing Bit Error rate (BER), Symbol Error rate (SER), and Frame Error rate (FER) signal to noise ratio (SNR) at the maximum power of 25db using MAT Lab simulation graphical results in multi-layer, double-layer, and single-layer. Our mathematical model for optimizing business activities carried out at every stage of the intelligent supply chain facilitates revenue sharing among the entities of producers, distributors, and re-sellers who make up the proposed blockchain system and NB-IoT as it incorporates with additional traceability and review functions, it is the optimal solution for safe transportation of intelligent supply chain management.
Evaluating the prediction performances of artificial neural network, nearest neighbor, and CART algorithms for body weight in Sujiang pigs using morphological measurements
Authors: Ergin Malik , Koskan Ozgur
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate machine learning algorithms for predicting body weight in Sujiang pigs. Sujiang pigs originated from the Duroc and Jiangquhai blood lines to improve both the growth rate and lean percentage of native breeds. K nearest neighbor, decision tree (CART), and artificial neural network algorithms were used to predict body weight (BW) using morphological traits such as body length (BL), body height (BH), chest circumference (CC), hip width (HW), and backfat thickness (BFT). The age of the pigs (180±5) was also included as a nominal predictor. For this purpose, all morphological measurements taken from 365 Sujiang pigs in a previous study were used. In total, 219 individual measurements were obtained after data preprocessing. In the Sujiang pig dataset, BW had a significantly positive and high linear relationship with BH (0.66), BL (0.72), CW (0.81), HW (0.84), and CC (0.88) (p < 0.01). Overall, the ANN algorithm outperformed the KNN and DT algorithms in this pig dataset according to the goodness of fit criteria of R2 = 0.91 and RMSE = 3.1. Nevertheless, the KNN algorithm also demonstrated good predictions on the test dataset (R2 = 0.86 and RMSE = 3.57). In the ANN algorithm, several training algorithms were compared, such as the Levenberg‒Marquardt algorithm, Bayesian regularization, and scaled conjugate gradient. In addition, the number of neurons in the hidden layer was manipulated to 2, 3, or 4. All training algorithms yielded similar results. However, when the predictor variables were CC, HW, BL, and BH, the Levenberg–Marquardt network had a superior ability to predict body weight in Sujiang pigs, with R2 = 0.89 and RMSE = 3.05. Furthermore, when BL measurements were not included in the model, the model’s predictive ability decreased by approximately 6%. According to the results, the use of Levenberg‒Marquardt and Bayesian Regularization in the ANN algorithm could help to improve breeding strategies. The traits determined to be the best predictors of BW in Sujiang pigs via the ANN algorithm can be used as indirect selection criteria in the future. However, this study suggested that different age stages, breeds, and traits should be considered in the model to accurately predict BW.
Comparative content analysis of national health strategies before and after COVID-19: a systematic policy analysis among OECD and BRICS countries
Authors: Song Jialu , Zhu Ziqi , Li Qi , Chen Ying , Wang Zhebin , Zhou Shuduo , Xu Ming , Zheng Zhi-Jie
Published: April 2024

Background
We aimed to evaluate the National Health Policies, Strategies and Plans (NHPSPs) of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and BRICS before and after the COVID-19 pandemic to explore nations' commitment to strengthen their health systems in defense of health threats and analyze the specific changes.
Methods
We systematically searched NHPSP documents from the WHO document repository and official governmental websites. Data was then extracted using a standardized extraction template. A coding framework was inductively developed to sort qualitative responses into categories, with frequencies calculated and weighting evaluated, followed by organizing underlying content into subthemes.
Results
The search yielded 154 documents, with 36 retained after screening, encompassing 14 OECD countries and 3 BRICS countries. The most predominant theme was prevention (88.9% pre-pandemic, 99.4% post-pandemic), which was addressed as a primary theme in 26 included NHPSPs. After the COVID-19 pandemic, 6 out of 14 analyzed themes saw higher occurrences, among which infection prevention and control (22.2–50.0%) and resilience to health crisis (22.2–44.4%) increased most significantly. Themes mainstreamed in post-pandemic NHPSPs included prevention (94.4%), health research and technology (61.1%), and One Health (66.7%). Primary healthcare emerged as the most concerned subtheme under prevention. Notably, OECD countries displayed more increased occurrences of themes (13 out of 14) or increased emphasis on themes with similar occurrences before and after COVID-19, while BRICS countries only differed in infection control. The two sets of countries also varied in subthemes and action plans under the same primary theme.
Conclusion
Many countries are endeavoring to move towards more robust health systems by optimizing NHPSPs, yet only about half of OECD and BRICS countries have introduced new NHPSPs after COVID-19. We hope our findings attract attention to the necessity of global health system reforms and provide other countries with actionable recommendations for NHPSP formulation.
Effect of temperature and body size on anterior and posterior regeneration in Hermodice carunculata (Polychaeta, Amphinomidae)
Authors: TOSO Andrea , Mammone Marta , Rossi Sergio , Piraino Stefano , Giangrande Adriana
Published: April 2024

In recent years, population outbreaks of the annelid Hermodice carunculata (Polychaeta, Amphinomidae) are recurrently detected along the coastal zone of the Salento peninsula (Southern Italy), with impacts on marine benthic ecosystems. Annelida are renowned for their remarkable regeneration potential, enabling them to reform lost body parts by asexual reproduction processes. A handful of studies have reported posterior regeneration of H. carunculata, but anterior regeneration and asexual reproduction have not been fully explored. In this study, we investigated the capacity of H. carunculata collected in shallow coastal areas (Ionian Sea, 40°08'26.9" N 17°58'44.1" E) to regenerate anterior body parts under different temperature conditions (22 and 14°C) and considering two different body sizes (~ 4 g and 25 g). In addition, histological analysis and lipid analyses were carried out to detect changes in the reproductive cycle and lipid storage during ongoing regeneration. The results suggest that small and large-sized specimens of H. carunculata can regenerate efficiently anterior body parts in 12–20 weeks post amputation (wpa) when kept at 22°C. Small-sized worms kept at 14°C regenerated slower but died in 24wpa before regenerating a mouth, while large-sized worms kept at 14°C were affected by a 100% mortality during blastema formation. In addition, lipid extraction analyses show that H. carunculata can regenerate during extended periods of starvation by de novo synthesizing lipid reserves and regeneration in H. carunculata does not negatively impact the reproductive cycle, as gametogenesis occurs also during the regenerative processes.
Forskolin reverses the O-GlcNAcylation dependent decrease in GABAAR current amplitude at hippocampal synapses possibly at a neurosteroid site on GABAARs.
Authors: Phillips Shekinah , Chatham John C. , McMahon Lori L.
Published: April 2024

GABAergic transmission is influenced by post-translational modifications, like phosphorylation, impacting channel conductance, allosteric modulator sensitivity, and membrane trafficking. O-GlcNAcylation is a post-translational modification involving the O-linked attachment of β–N-acetylglucosamine on serine/threonine residues. Previously we reported an acute increase in O-GlcNAcylation elicits a long-term depression of evoked GABAAR inhibitory post synaptic currents (eIPSCs) onto hippocampal principal cells. Importantly, O-GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation can co-occur or compete for the same residue; whether they interact in modulating GABAergic IPSCs is unknown. We tested this by recording IPSCs from hippocampal principal cells and pharmacologically increased O-GlcNAcylation, before or after increasing serine phosphorylation using the adenylate cyclase activator, forskolin. Although forskolin had no significant effect on baseline eIPSC amplitude, we found that a prior increase in O-GlcNAcylation unmasks a forskolin-dependent increase in eIPSC amplitude, reversing the O-GlcNAc-induced eIPSC depression. Inhibition of adenylate cyclase or protein kinase A did not prevent the potentiating effect of forskolin, indicating serine phosphorylation is not the mechanism. Surprisingly, increasing O-GlcNAcylation also unmasked a potentiating effect of the neurosteroids 5α-pregnane-3α,21-diol-20-one (THDOC) and progesterone on eIPSC amplitude, mimicking forskolin. Our findings show under conditions of heightened O-GlcNAcylation, the neurosteroid site on synaptic GABAARs is accessible to agonists, permitting strengthening of synaptic inhibition.
The coordination of hydraulic and leaf photosynthesis properties is a critical feature underlying the spread and distribution of Dasiphora fruticosa in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau alpine meadows
Authors: Fan Baoli , Ding Nana , Gao Pengfei , Tian Ting ting , Ai Dongxia , Wan Yongkuan , Ma Miaojun , Sun Kun
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims
Global climate change and human-induced factors have resulted in shrub encroachment in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau alpine meadows. Coordination among traits plays key role in plant adaptation to the environment. However, the mechanism by which the hydraulic and photosynthetic traits of shrubs are coordinated to adapt to different habitats on the Tibetan Plateau remain unclear.
Methods
Here, we assembled 23 root, stem and leaf traits, including hydraulic and photosynthetic traits, of a widely distributed shrub species, Dasiphora fruticosa, and tracked these against the degree of shrub encroachment (cover) on shady and sunny slope.
Results
We found that on shady slopes, D. fruticosa has enhanced hydraulic (KL, KS) and photosynthetic traits(Aa, Am, gs), while on sunny slopes it exhibits greater resistance capability (i.e high WD, more negative π0). By optimizing its hydraulic and photosynthetic traits, D. fruticosa enable to flourish in two different environments. Furthermore, as influenced by STN, STP, root system of D. fruticosa in shady and sunny environments also adopted two different resource use strategies, such that the above-ground parts have a reverse pattern of resource acquisition compared to the below-ground parts. The relationships between stem and leaf hydraulics (i.e KL, π0, KS) and economic traits (i.e LMA, RAD, SRL) drives the coupling of below- and above-ground resource of D. fruticosa in two environments.
Conclusion
Our study clearly shows the importance of hydraulics and leaf photosynthesis traits in governing shrub encroachment and provides useful values for predicting shrub encroachment as a response to climate change.
Understanding coffee farmers’ poverty, food insecurity and adaptive responses to climate stress. Evidence from the dry corridor of western Honduras
Authors: Rodriguez-Camayo Fernando , Borgemeister Christian , Ramirez-Villegas Julian , Lundy Mark , Beuchelt Tina
Published: April 2024

Central America faces significant vulnerability to climatic variations. In recent years, national and international organizations have been working on climate-smart agricultural (CSA) to support coffee farmers in adapting to climate change. However, limited scientific evidence exists regarding the efficacy of these strategies in mitigating vulnerability. This study aims to assess the suitability of CSA practices promoted by Honduras' coffee sector in addressing the needs and vulnerability of coffee-farming households. Here, we integrated quantitative and qualitative methods, to assess how coffee farmers' livelihoods, poverty levels, and food insecurity status relate to their dependence on coffee income, prevailing stressors, and responses from farmers and value chain stakeholders. Data from a survey of 348 coffee farmers in western Honduras, along with key stakeholder interviews and focus group discussions, inform our analyses. Results indicate that poverty levels rise with increased reliance on coffee income, while diversified income sources correlate with greater food security among households. Nevertheless, despite efforts to enhance coffee tree productivity and soil resilience, most CSA practices neglect the food insecurity concerns of coffee farmers. Interviews and discussions reveal uncertainty among farmers regarding maintaining food security under extreme hazards. Consequently, coffee households remain vulnerable to climate and non-climate hazards, leading to crop losses, income instability, and food insecurity. Our findings underscore the need for a fundamental shift in the scope of coffee CSA practices towards a more holistic approach that addresses food security and income.