bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromatin accessibility analysis suggested vascular induction of the biliary epithelium via the Notch signaling pathway in the human liver
Authors: Yoshihara Masaharu , Nakayama Takahiro , Takahashi Satoru
Published: August 2023

The biliary epithelial cells (cholangiocytes) in the liver originate from undifferentiated liver parenchymal cells (hepatoblasts) that are located adjacent to the portal vein. This differentiation process is driven by Notch signaling, which is recognized for generating scattered or coalescent patterns, in contrast to one- or two-cell layer (spatially confined) patterning in cholangiocyte differentiation. It is unclear how Notch signaling acts and localizes only in cholangiocytes. A computer simulation study suggested that low production rates of the ligands or receptors of Notch signaling arecrucial for the spatially confined patterning,although biochemical examination is lacking. Here, we analyzed a publicly available single-cell ATAC-sequencing dataset from human fetal liver samples. We showed high chromatin accessibility for the ligands only in vascular cells, while that for the receptor is limited to a small population of hepatoblasts. This finding strengthens the previously proposed idea that low production rates of the ligands or receptors of Notch signaling enable vascular induction of cholangiocytes.
A computational model to design wide field-of-view optic nerve neuroprostheses
Authors: Micera Silvestro , Romeni Simone , De Luca Daniela , Pierantoni Luca , Toni Laura , Marino Gabriele , Moccia Sara
Published: August 2023

Neuroprostheses based on retinal stimulation (RS) allows many individuals affected by retinal degeneration to partially restore visual perception but the produced phosphenes are confined into a narrow region of the visual field. Optic nerve stimulation (ONS) has the potential to produce visual perceptions spanning the whole visual field, but its exploitation is challenging since it produces very elongated phosphenes that cannot be easily organized into meaningful percepts. Here, to address this issue, we introduced a geometrical model that allows us to convert firing rate patterns in the retina and optic nerve into visual perceptions and vice versa. Then, we developed and extensively characterized a method to estimate the best perceptions that can be elicited through a given electrode configuration. This method was used to qualitatively compare ONS and RS also using a set of static and dynamic visual scenes through simulated prosthetic vision (SPV) experiments with healthy subjects. Both simulations and SPV experiments showed that it might be possible to reconstruct natural visual scenes using reasonable amounts of active sites, whose arrangement in the optic nerve section exploits purely geometrical factors. The ability of ONS to cover the whole visual field, allowed perception of much more detail in dynamic scenarios than what is possible with RS, where the narrowing of the visual field results in a limited ability to visualize the scene. Our findings suggest that ONS could represent an interesting approach for vision restoration and that our model can be used to optimize it.
Assessing farmer’s experience and perception to crop feeding long-tailed macaques in West Sumatra, Indonesia: Implication for coexistences and conservation
Authors: Ilham Kurnia , Rizaldi Rizaldi , Tsuji Yamato , Wu Cheng-Yu , Su Yong-Chao
Published: August 2023

Understanding the extent of human-macaque negative interaction due to crop damage is crucial to develop conservation and conflict management strategies. In this study, we investigated conflicts between human and long-tailed macaque (LTM) over crop feeding in Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia. We conducted an interview survey with a total 200 farmers near protected and unprotected sites to explore the extent of crop feeding affect farmers' and how their attitudes toward conservation of the LTM. Our result showed that most farmers on both sites experienced agronomic damage attributed to crop feeding LTM. Most farmers from both sites reported that crop feeding occurs daily and more frequently in the morning. The financial losses were the main concern of most farmers at both sites. However, we found that the majority of farmers still promote the conservation of the LTM; the farmers considered that the macaques had the right to live. Amongst socio-economic characteristic, regression analysis indicated that coexistences between human and LTM appeared to be related with crop feeding experienced. Conservation supports were largely determined by age and education. The mitigation suggested by the farmers, compensation losses from the government were most desirable. Our findings aid in developing communication strategies for reducing the human-macaque conflicts and improving conservation efforts.
A deep-learning artificial intelligence system for estimating chronological age using panoramic radiography in the Korean population
Authors: Yeom Han-Gyeol , Lee Byung-Do , Lee Wan , Lee Taehan , Yun Jong Pil
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to suggest a hybrid method based on ResNet50 and ViT in an age estimation model using panoramic radiographs for learning by considering both local features and global information, which is important in estimating age. Transverse and longitudinal panoramic images of 9663 patients were selected and used (4774 males and 4889 females with a mean age of 39 years and 3 months). To compare ResNet50, ViT, and the hybrid model, the MAE, mean square error (MSE), root mean square error (RMSE), and coefficient of determination (R2) were used as metrics. The results confirmed that the age estimation model designed using the hybrid method performed better than those using only ResNet50 or ViT. In addition, when examining the basis for age determination in the hybrid model through attention rollout, it was evident that the proposed model used logical and important factors rather than relying on unclear elements as the basis for age determination.
Description of Tropicibacter oceani sp. nov, isolated from the intertidal zone sediment of Chinese Yellow Sea
Authors: Zhou Dan-dan , Xu Xiudan , Zhang Bin-zhe , Feng Ji-xing , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2023

In this study, we reported a Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, atrichous, and aerobic bacterial strain named YMD87T, which was isolated from the intertidal zone sediment of Chinese Yellow Sea. Growth of strain YMD87T occurred at 10.0–40.0°C (optimum, 25–30°C), pH 4.0–12.0 (optimum, 8.0) and with 0–6.0% (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0.0–2.0%). Phylogenetic tree analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that strain YMD87T belonged to the genus Tropicibacter and was closely related to Tropicibacter alexandrii LMIT003T (97.2% sequence similarity). Genomic analysis indicated that strain YMD87T contains a circular chromosome of 3,932,460 bp with G + C content of 63.8% and three circular plasmids of 116,492 bp, 49,209 bp and 49,673 bp, with G + C content of 64.3%. The predominant respiratory quinone of YMD87T was ubiquinone-10 (Q-10). The major polar lipids of YMD87T contained phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, five unidentified lipids, five unidentified phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine, unidentified glycolipid and five unidentified aminolipids. The major fatty acids of strain YMD87T contained C12:1 3-OH, C16:0, and summed feature 8 (C18:1 ω7c or/and C18:1 ω6c). Phylogenetic, physiological, biochemical and morphological analyses suggested that strain YMD87T represents a novel species of the genus Tropicibacter, and the name Tropicibacter oceani sp. nov is proposed. The type strain is YMD87T (= MCCC 1K08473T = KCTC 92856T).
Diacerhein Attenuates Sepsis-induced Pulmonary Vascular Endothelial barrier Dysfunction via Inhibition of Advanced Glycation End Products
Authors: Xu Jia , Wei Lingyu , Sun Zaiyuan , Gong Wenqian , Luo Minghao , Peng Junnan , Zhou Xiaomin , Xu Xue , Su Zedazhong
Published: August 2023

AIM
Acute lung injury in sepsis is a life-threatening clinical problem with high mortality and few treatment options, posing a significant challenge for clinicians. Powerful anti-inflammatory anthraquinone derivative dialcerhein (DIA) has numerous targets. The objective of this investigation is to ascertain whether DIA and potential molecular targets can protect mice against sepsis-induced deteriorate of the pulmonary vascular endothelial barrier.
METHODS
Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) was used to induce sepsis in mice, followed by DIA administration. Survival rate, serum biochemical indicators and advanced glycation end products (AGEs), pulmonary vascular endothelial barrier function, glucose tolerance, and protein expression in lung tissue were all studied using molecular and biochemical approaches.
RESULTS
In septic mice lung tissue, DIA therapy normalized CLP-induced survival rate, vascular hyperpermeability, pulmonary vascular endothelial barrier dysfunction, inflammatory response, insulin tolerance test, AGEs level, and VE-cadherin phosphorylation level. Furthermore, AGEs and Scr interventions could greatly impair the therapeutic efficacy of DIA.
CONCLUSION
In this study, DIA alleviated pulmonary vascular endothelial barrier dysfunction in septic mice by regulating inflammation and lowering insulin resistance through AGEs inhibition. These findings showed that DIA could be a potential therapeutic for sepsis patients.
Regolith profiles developed from a granitic parent rock in a sub- humid region of India: Implications for pedogenesis and chemical mobility of elements
Authors: Kanhaiya S. , Singh B. P. , Mittal P. , Patra A.
Published: August 2023

Regolith profiles develop as a result of weathering of the parent rocks under varying climatic conditions. Hence, a better understanding of the mobility of different elements in a regolith profile explains the weathering trend and influence of climate on pedogenesis. In the present study, regolith profiles developed under a sub-humid climatic condition from a granitic rock of India are investigated. It reveals pedogenic processes, weathering trend, mineralogical and geochemical changes during profile development. The regolith profiles show the dominance of oxidation process with the occurrence of clay and ferruginous coatings around the skeletal grains. They contain quartz, K-feldspars, and albite, besides clay minerals in the upper horizons. The regolith profiles show more mobility of Si and Na, which are depleted in the regolith profiles in comparison to the parent rock. The regolith contains appreciable amount (4.0–6.0%) of K2O that shows largely increasing trend up-section. In the regolith samples, Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) and Plagioclase Index of Alteration (PIA) values varying from 56.7 to 75.7 and 66.9 to 92.2, respectively. Both CIA and PIA of the regolith samples suggest moderate weathering intensity. The regolith samples show light rare earth elements (LREEs) enrichment in comparison to the parent rock because of their absorption by the clay minerals. The negative europium (Eu) anomaly might have been caused due to the weathering of plagioclases in them. The heavy rare earth elements (HREEs) show negligible variation in comparison to the parent rock despite moderate weathering under sub-humid climates in the regolith samples. The occurrence of K2O in the regolith obtained from the granite may increase nutrient value for agricultural purposes.
Identification of Prognostic Stemness-related Genes in Kidney Renal Papillary Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yifan , Yao Yuntao , Zhang Yu , Xu Chengdang , Yang Tianyue , Qu Mingyu , Lu Bingnan , Song Xu , Zhou Wang , Pan Xiuwu , Cui Xingang
Published: August 2023

Background
Kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP) is the second most prevalent malignant cancer originating from the renal epithelium. Nowadays, cancer stem cells (CSC) and stemness-related genes (SRGs) are constantly revealed to play important roles in carcinogenesis and metastasis of various tumors. In the present study, we aim to investigate the underlying mechanisms of stemness-related genes (SRGs) in carcinogenesis and metastasis of KIRP.
Methods
RNA-seq profiles of 141 KIRP samples were downloaded from the TCGA database, which was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The univariate Cox analysis was used to identify the significant stemness-related genes (SRGs) with prognostic value, based on which we calculated the risk score and established a prognostic model by multivariate Cox regression in KIRP patients. In addition, the regulatory network of SRGs, upstream transcription factors (TFs), and downstream signaling pathways was constructed by the Pearson correlation analysis.
Results
In total, 1124 genes were characterized as DEGs between low- and high-stemness groups. Based on six prognostic SRGs, a prediction model was established with an AUC of 0.861. Furthermore, the transcription factor CBX2 was co-expressed with the stemness-related gene ASPH (R = 0.46, P < 0.001), and ASPH had a significant co-expression pattern with the Notch signaling pathway (R = 0.42, P < 0.001). Meanwhile, we also found that resveratrol might be a potential inhibitor for KIRP.
Conclusions
We suggested that CBX2 regulated ASPH through activation of Notch signaling pathway, which might be correlated with the carcinogenesis, development, and unfavorable prognosis of KIRP.
Biofloc meal production protocol through three stages: thickening, dewatering and drying, and its effect on the proximal composition
Authors: Gallardo-Collí Alfredo , Pérez-Rostro Carlos Iván , Hernández-Vergara Martha Patricia , Ortega-Clemente Luis Alfredo , Huerta-Mora Ibis Rafael
Published: August 2023

With the purpose of obtaining biofloc meal that serves as alternative and functional protein ingredient in aquaculture feed, the obtaining protocol was developed and its effect on the proximal composition was evaluated. The protocol consists of three stages: thickening, dewatering, and drying, with the following treatments: stage 1: MS) seeds of Moringa oleifera; CS) cationic corn starch; AG) Aloe barbadensis gel and WF) sedimentation without flocculants. Stage 2: FP) Filter press; CF) Cartridge filter; CN) Centrifugation; MF) Mesh filter with manual pressure. Stage 3: CO) Convection oven; MO) Microwave and SD) Sun drying. In each stage, the proximal composition of the biofloc was evaluated. Based on the proximal composition, the WF treatment was considered the more efficient for the thickening stage; CN was considered more efficient during the dewatering stage, and CO and SD treatments were more efficient in the drying stage. The results of the three stages were used to establish two production protocols for obtaining the biofloc meal: protocol A (PA) = WF + CN + SD, and protocol B (PB) = WF + CN + CO. Overall, biofloc meal production protocols, PA and PB, allowed the preserve of biofloc nutrients and can be considered as a benchmark for the production of an alternative protein ingredient for use in aquafeeds; however, it is important to analyze the energy costs of the production protocol.
Engineering the synthetic β-alanine pathway in Pichia pastoris for conversion of methanol into 3-hydroxypropionic acid
Authors: Àvila-Cabré Sílvia , Pérez-Trujillo Míriam , Albiol Joan , Ferrer Pau
Published: August 2023

Background
Methanol is increasingly gaining attraction as renewable carbon source to produce specialty and commodity chemicals, as it can be generated from renewable sources such as carbon dioxide (CO2). In this context, native methylotrophs such as the yeast Pichia pastoris (Komagataella phaffii) are potentially attractive cell factories to produce a wide range of products from this highly reduced substrate. However, studies addressing the potential of this yeast to produce bulk chemicals from methanol are still scarce.
3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) is a platform chemical which can be converted into acrylic acid and other commodity chemicals and biopolymers. 3-HP can be naturally produced by several bacteria through different metabolic pathways.
Results
In this study, production of 3-HP via the synthetic β-alanine pathway has been established in P. pastoris for the first time by expressing three heterologous genes, namely panD from Tribolium castaneum, yhxA from Bacillus cereus, and ydfG from Escherichia coli K-12. The expression of these key enzymes allowed a production of 1.0 g l-1 of 3-HP in small-scale cultivations using methanol as substrate. The addition of a second copy of the panD gene and selection of a weak promoter to drive expression of the ydfG gene in the PpCβ21 strain resulted in an additional 12% increase in the final 3-HP titer (1.2 g l-1). The 3-HP-producing strains were further tested in fed-batch cultures. The best strain (PpCβ21) achieved a final 3-HP concentration of 21.4 g l-1 after 39 h of methanol feeding, a product yield of 0.15 g g-1, and a volumetric productivity of 0.48 g l-1 h-1. Further engineering of this strain aiming at increasing NADPH availability led to a 16% increase in the methanol consumption rate and 10% higher specific productivity compared to the reference strain PpCβ21.
Conclusions
Our results show the potential of P. pastoris as platform cell factory for the production of organic acids such as 3-HP from renewable one-carbon feedstocks, achieving the highest volumetric productivities reported so far for a 3-HP production process through the β-alanine pathway.
Clinical characteristics and Aetiology of Uveitis in a Viral Haemorrhagic Fever Zone
Authors: Balendra Shiama , Williams Lloyd , Mustapha Jalikatu , Koroma Zikan , Kamara Alicious , Conteh Osman , Kanu Theophilus , Saradugu Bangi , Kamara Santigie , Ward Laura , Wang Huachun , Fashina Tolulope , Koroma Sheku , Shantha Jessica , Yeh Steven , Kennedy Alasdair
Published: August 2023

Background/Objectives:
Studies on uveitis in Sierra Leone were conducted prior to the Ebola Virus Disease epidemic of 2013-16, which was associated with uveitis in 20% of survivors. They did not include imaging or investigation of tuberculosis and used laboratory services outside the country. We performed a cross-sectional study on patients presenting with uveitis to establish their clinical characteristics and identify the impact of in-country laboratory diagnoses.
Methods:
We invited uveitis cases presenting to Eye Clinics in Sierra Leone from March to September 2022 to participate in the study. They underwent a diagnostic work-up, including fundus and ocular coherence tomography imaging. Active uveitis cases underwent further investigations including serology and immunological tests for syphilis, tuberculosis and herpetic viruses and HIV, and chest radiographs.
Results:
We recruited 128 patients. The mean age was 36 ±14 years and there was an equal gender split. Panuveitis was the predominant anatomical uveitis type (n=51, 40%), followed by posterior uveitis (n=36, 28%). Bilateral disease affected 40 patients (31%). Active uveitis was identified in 75 (59%) cases. ICD 11 definition of blindness with VA<3/60 occurred in 55 (33%) uveitis eyes. Aetiology of uveitis from clinical and laboratory assessment demonstrated that most cases were of undifferentiated aetiology (n=66, 52%), followed by toxoplasmosis (n=46, 36%). Trauma contributed to eight (6%) cases, syphilis to 5 (4%) cases and Ebola to 2 (2%).
Conclusions:
Uveitis was associated with high levels of visual impairment. Posterior and panuveitis contributed to the highest proportion of uveitis cases. Laboratory studies helped differentiate syphilis as a significant aetiology of uveitis.
Code sharing increases citations, but remains uncommon
Authors: Maitner Brian , Santos-Andrade Paul , Lei Luna , Barbosa George , Boyle Brad , Castorena Matiss , Enquist Brian , Feng Xiao , Kass Jamie , Owens Hannah , Park Daniel , Paz Andrea , Pinilla-Buitrago Gonzalo , Merow Cory , Wilson Adam
Published: August 2023

Biologists increasingly rely on computer code, reinforcing the importance of published code for transparency, reproducibility, training, and a basis for further work. Here we conduct a literature review examining temporal trends in code sharing in ecology and evolution publications since 2010, and test for an influence of code sharing on citation rate. We find that scientists are overwhelmingly (95%) failing to publish their code and that there has been no significant improvement over time, but we also find evidence that code sharing can considerably improve citations, particularly when combined with open access publication.
Experiences of working with lower limb osteoarthritis: A qualitative study
Authors: Alyousef Yousef S , Ross Megan H , Johnston Venerina , Smith Michelle D
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Pain and disability associated with lower limb osteoarthritis (OA) may contribute to difficulties at work. This study aimed to understand the perspectives of workers with lower limb OA on difficulties, concerns and coping strategies used at work.
Methods
Twenty-two individuals with lower limb OA and who working in paid employment participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were qualitatively analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Codes were identified and refined through review of interview transcripts and discussion with the research team.
Results
Six themes were identified in relation to experiences working with lower limb OA. Themes were: weight-bearing physical demands are challenging; lower limb OA can affect work performance; emotional consequences of pain; concerns about work in the future; positive experiences of supportive colleagues and managers; and minimal effects on sedentary work. Three themes were identified relating to strategies to manage at work: adjustments at work help manage pain and avoid exacerbations; regular strategies to manage pain; and healthcare professionals are consulted, but usually not specifically for work.
Conclusions
Workers with lower limb OA experience physical and emotional difficulties at work that can impact work performance. Workers are concerned about longevity and job security and use a range of strategies to manage symptoms and remain at work. Employers, employees and healthcare professionals may need to work together to create workplace accommodations to help workers with lower limb OA confidently remain in work.
Decreased incidence of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis in young children
Authors: Park Peong Gang , Ahn Yo Han , Kang Hee Gyung , Ha Il-Soo
Published: August 2023

Background
Peritonitis is the most common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). This study aimed to investigate changes in the incidence, risk factors, microbiology, and clinical outcomes of PD-associated peritonitis in the past decades.
Methods
This was a retrospective study that included children who initiated chronic PD at Seoul National University Children’s Hospital between 2000 and 2017. The patients were divided into two groups according to the year of initiation: those who initiated PD between 2000 and 2008 and those who initiated PD between 2009 and 2017. The follow-up data until PD cessation, death, or June 30, 2023, were reviewed. The incidence and characteristics of peritonitis were compared between the groups.
Results
A total of 184 patients (107 males and 77 females) with a median age of 10.2 years were included in this study. Of the patients, 92 experienced 210 episodes of peritonitis. Automated PD was the dominant PD modality in the later period. The incidence rate of peritonitis decreased from 0.35 to 0.21 episodes/patient year during the study period (P = 0.001). No changes were observed in the distribution of causative organisms. Subgroup analysis showed an increase in the 2-year peritonitis-free rate from 26.9–93.3% in children under 2 years of age. No significant difference in the 2-year peritonitis-free rate was observed among different age groups since 2009.
Conclusions
The incidence of PD-associated peritonitis decreased, particularly in children under 2 years of age. Thus, younger age is no longer a risk factor for PD-associated peritonitis.
A qualitative study on the adaptation of community programmes for the promotion of early detection and health-seeking of perinatal depression in Nepal
Authors: Subba Prasansa , Williams Petal Petersen , Luitel Nagendra Prasad , Jordans Mark J D , Breuer Erica
Published: August 2023

Background
Despite the high burden of perinatal depression in Nepal, the detection rate is low. Community-based strategies such as sensitization programmes and the Community Informant Detection Tool (CIDT) have been found to be effective in raising awareness and thus promoting the identification of mental health problems. This study aims to adapt these community strategies for perinatal depression in the Nepalese context.
Methods
We followed a four-step process to adapt the existing community sensitization program manual and CIDT. Step 1 included in-depth interviews with women identified with perinatal depression (n = 36), and focus group discussions were conducted with health workers trained in community mental health (n = 13), female community health volunteers (FCHVs), cadre of Nepal government for the prevention and promotion of community maternal and child health (n = 16), and psychosocial counsellors (n = 5). We explored idioms and understanding of depression, perceived causes, and possible intervention. Step 2 included draft preparation based on the qualitative study. Step 3 included a one-day workshop with the psychosocial counsellors (n = 2) and health workers (n = 12) to assess the understandability and comprehensiveness of the draft and to refine the content. A review of the CIDT and community sensitization program manual by a psychiatrist was performed in Step 4.
Results
The first step led to the content development for the CIDT and community sensitization manual. Multiple stakeholders and experts reviewed and refined the content from the second to fourth steps. Idioms of depression and commonly cited risk factors were incorporated in the CIDT. Additionally, myths of perinatal depression and the importance of the role of family were added to the community sensitization manual.
Conclusion
Both the CIDT and community sensitization manual are grounded in the local context and are simple, clear, and easy to understand.
[18F]-FDG uptake in brain slices prepared from an aged mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease using a dynamic autoradiography technique
Authors: Maruyama Hiroko , Gomi Misaki , Lwin Thet-Thet , Yoneyama Akio , Sasaki Toru
Published: August 2023

Objective 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose Positron Emission Tomography ([18F]-FDG-PET) is a imaging modality that has been used to measure of glucose metabolism in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Clinically, decreased glucose uptake has been reported in the brain of AD, although the precise underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. To elucidate the mechanisms of decreased [18F]-FDG uptake in the AD by PET, [18F]-FDG uptake in the brain of aged model mouse of AD was investigated using a dynamic autoradiography technique “bioradiogaraphy”. A X-ray phase-contrast imaging (X-PCI) and a histopathological evaluation were also investigated to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the relationships between decreased [18F]-FDG uptake and the pathological changes in the brain of AD mouse.Methods In this study, AD model mouse (APP+/PS1+) were used. [18F]-FDG-bioradiography was conducted in fresh slices of brain tissue under the condition of resting (slices immersed in 5 mM K+ solution) and metabolically active (in 50 mM K+ solution). Amyloid β42 (Aβ42) deposition in the brain of AD mouse was confirmed by X-PCI. In addition, the positive cells of phosphated tau protein (P-tau) and deposition of Aβ42 were also examined by immunohistochemical staining.Results In the metabolically active condition, [18F]-FDG uptake was significantly enhanced in the WT mouse but not significant in the AD mouse, whereas in resting condition, no significant difference was observed between two groups. In X-PCI showed Aβ deposition in the AD mouse, but not in the WT. The AD mouse also showed increased P-tau, accumulation of Aβ42, increase in neuronal apoptosis, and decrease in the number of neurons than that of the WT mouse.Conclusion Neuronal damage, and induction of neuronal apoptosis, decreased [18F]-FDG uptake, increased Aβ accumulation and P-tau induced neurofibrillary degeneration are observed in AD mouse. In clinical diagnosis, reduction of [18F]-FDG uptake by PET is one of the means of diagnosing the onset of AD. Our results suggest that decreased uptake of [18F]-FDG in the brains of AD may be associated with neuronal dysfunction and cell death in the brain.
Temperature and Dielectric Constant Dependent Input and Output Characteristics of CNTFET
Authors: Nayan Md Faysal , Hossain Sheikh Redwana , Sultana Sabia , Rahman Anika , Imam Safayat-Al
Published: August 2023

Carbon nanotubes have unique features and special properties that offer great potential for nano-electronic devices. Understanding the dependency of temperature and dielectric is essential to optimize the performance of carbon nanotube field effect transistors (CNTFETs).In this study, a numerical simulation model of semiconducting CNTFETs is presented to determine the electrical properties in the ballistic regime. This paper focused on the impact of temperature and dielectric constant to evaluate the input-output characteristic of CNTFET devices. Moreover, the study investigated the changes in threshold voltage as a function of gate dielectric constant and temperature in the nanometer regime. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating temperature and dielectric constant relationships in the design and optimization of CNTFETs, allowing for their effective incorporation into future electronic applications.
An Effective Real-time Traffic Classification Method Using Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Yang lingyun , Wang Zaijian , Feng Youhong , Yan He
Published: August 2023

Network traffic classification has been as a research hots pot in network studies. However, previous research has predominantly focused on coarse-grained classification, neglecting fine-grained classification among network flows. As the increasing demand for personalized network services, fine-grained classification of network flows research has become imminently. This study discusses the task of fine-grained classification mainly, specifically for chat flows. We proposed a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based method for fine-grained real-time classification of chat flows. Firstly, we pre-process the five-tuple data, analysis the probabilistic feature values about the protocols by first-order Markov chains, then using the features as input data of CNN model. Secondly, we propose an improved adaptive step method to optimize the training CNN model; Additionally, we combining the bagging algorithm with the CNN model to improve its classification performance. To validate the effectiveness of our proposed method, we conducted experiments using two different chat flows from the ISCX database. The experiment results show that the proposed classification method effectively improved the fine-grained traffic classification results. It increases the classification accuracy of non-VPN chat flows from 76.7% and 80.8% to 88.8% and that of VPN chat flows from 91.0% and 93.6% to 97.9%.
Species of associated bryophyte and their effect on the yield and quality of Dendrobium nobile
Authors: Li Mingsong , Li Jinling , Deng Lujun , Zhao Zhi , Luo Chunli , Luo Fulai , Wang Hualei , Yang Jiyong
Published: August 2023

Background Dendrobium nobile demanding growing environment, unstable yield and high management cost are the key factors restricting the development of its imitation wild cultivation industry. Through the study, it was found that the growth of Dendrobium nobile is closely related to the microenvironment of Danxia stone, in which the different associated bryophytes have different effects on the growth of Dendrobium nobile. The present study aimed to explore the effects of different associated bryophyte species on the yield and quality of Dendrobium nobile, and to clarify the dominant bryophyte species associated with Dendrobium nobile, and to provide a scientific basis for the rational cultivation and quality evaluation of Dendrobium nobile.
Results It is a rich variety of associated bryophyte with Dendrobium nobile. There are identified a total of 15 families, 24 genera and 31 species of bryophyte in the study area, including 13 families, 22 genera and 29 species of mosses and 2 families, 2 genera and 2 species of liverworts, and mosses predominated in the association with Dendrobium nobile; Usually 3-9 species of bryophyte were mixed with Dendrobium nobile, of which 5-6 species of bryophyte were more common, and the associated bryophyte with Dendrobium nobile were only related to the species to which they belonged; The dry matter accumulation, quality and mineral content of Dendrobium nobile differed significantly among different species of bryophyte. The coefficients of variation of dry matter accumulation, dendrobine and content of 11 mineral elements of Dendrobium nobile in the 35 quadrats were 25.00%, 21.08%, and 11.33%-57.96%, respectively. The biomass, dendrobine and mineral content of Dendrobium nobile were analysed by principal component analysis and affiliation function. The results showed that each evaluation method initially screened Trachycystis microphylla and Leucobryum juniperoideum as the preliminary identification of dominant associated bryophytes, and the frequency and coverage of the two bryophytes were significantly higher than that of the rest of the bryophytes, and it was determined that Trachycystis microphylla and Leucobryum juniperoideum were the dominant associated bryophytes.
Conclusions It is a rich variety of associated bryophyte with Dendrobium nobile. The yield and quality of Dendrobium nobile differed significantly among different species of bryophyte. It was determined that Trachycystis microphyllaand Leucobryum juniperoideum were the dominant associated bryophytes, which were the two bryophytes associated with Dendrobium nobile through mixed growth.
Electrochemically selective detection of dopamine over serotonin by ITO/NiO(OH) electrode
Authors: Mondal Rimpa , Show Bibhutibhushan , Ahmed Sk. Faruque , Mukherjee Nillohit
Published: August 2023

Dopamine and serotonin are the two key neurotransmitters that play vital roles in human central nervous system. It is essential to monitor the level of these neurotransmitters in our body. Enzyme-less or electrochemical detection of such bio-analytes are one of the accurate methods for this purpose. However, proper choice of the semiconductor electrode is crucial. To address this, thin films of nickel-oxy-hydroxide [NiO(OH)] was deposited on indium doped tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrates using chronoamperometry. Thorough characterization of the deposited films were carried out using x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy. For the detailed electrochemical sensing of dopamine and serotonin, cyclic voltammetry (CV), steady-state amperometry, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were carried out in aqueous phosphate buffer solution (pH ~ 7). Electrochemical analyses for dopamine yielded high sensitivity of 11.12 µAµM− 1cm− 2 with a limit of detection of 0.55 µM, i.e., in sub µM level. Whereas, for serotonin, the value of sensitivity and limit of detection were found to be 0.04 µAµM− 1cm− 2 and 1.70 µM, respectively; which are inferior compared to dopamine detection. In addition, with the presence of serotonin as an interfering analyte, the performance of the developed electrode did not suppress much and effectively displayed the results in favour of dopamine; making the developed electrode dopamine selective.
Health Behaviors, Knowledge, Screening, and Attitudes Toward Colorectal Cancer among Iraqi Adults
Authors: Mohammad Burhan Fareeq , Andsoy Isil Isik
Published: August 2023

Purpose
There has been a change in the incidence and mortality of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) in the last 20 years in Iraq. Understanding knowledge, screening, and attitudes toward CRC is vital to the design of effective health measures. This study aimed to determine the Iraqi population’s health behaviors, knowledge, screening, attitudes toward CRC, and possible predictors that may affect their knowledge level.
Methods
This cross-sectional study design was conducted among 1361 adults between March 2020 and August 2021 in Sulaymaniyah/Iraq. The self-designed questionnaire was used to collect data. Descriptive analysis and linear logistic regression were carried out.
Results
Among participants, 6.1% had a colonoscopy, 4.0% had a sigmoidoscopy and 60.8% heard CRC screening. Participants’ overall knowledge score was poor (13.60± 1.03, Min=0, Max=28). Half of them (51%) believed CRC screening is essential for early diagnosis, and less than half worried because of pain and embarrassment. Respondents who retired (OR=1.30; p=0.00) and who had graduated from university (OR=0.86; p=0.01) had a high knowledge of CRC, while those who were aged 70 and above (OR=-1.08; p=0.00) had a low knowledge of CRC. Furthermore, it was found that Iraqi adults who answered “no idea” to questions related to attitude and who answered incorrectly questions related to risk factors were likely to have low knowledge (p=0.00).
Conclusions
We found a lack of knowledge, screening, and misconceptions about CRC and screening among Iraqi adults. Thus, education and screening programs should target Iraqi populations with the most limited knowledge.
Genetic parameters and trends estimates for reproduction and fitness traits in ‘Threatened’ Nilagiri breed of sheep
Authors: Chaudhari Arth Bhaljibhai , Ramanujam Rajendran , Ragothaman Venkataramanan , Gowrimanokari K.V.
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of non-genetic and genetic factors and to estimate the genetic parameters and trends for reproduction and fitness traits of threatened Nilagiri sheep reared under semi-intensive management system. Data used in the present study were collected over a years from 1989 to 2013 (25 years). A total of 6001 individual phenotypic information from about 1129 ewes with variable number of records for each reproduction and fitness traits were used. The reproduction and fitness traits were analysed for the effects of genetic and non-genetic factors, respectively. Fixed effect analysis was carried out using general linear model procedures using SPSS. Variance components and genetic parameters were estimated with univariate analysis by fitting Restricted Maximum Likelihood Method (REML) using WOMBAT programme, by fitting an animal model for all the traits. Three different animal models were fitted by including or excluding maternal effects was used to estimates genetic parameters. Nilagiri sheep had overall mean for all reproduction and fitness traits were estimated. Based on best fitted univariate models, direct heritability estimates, for reproduction and fitness traits ranges from 0.04 to 0.258 were, respectively. Whereas, genetic and phenotypic correlation coefficients between litter size and birth and litter size at weaning were 1.00 ± 0.077 and 0.89 ± 0.007 in Nilagiri sheep which implies the possibility of indirect selection. Genetic changes over the selection period (genetic parameters and genetic trend over the years) suggested that the genetic selection and appropriate management can lead to improvement of Nilagiri sheep.
Uzbekistan’s Path to Sustainable Growth: Innovative Agrar-Geography for Resilience and Prosperity
Authors: Juraev Zuhriddin , Ahn Young-Jin
Published: August 2023

This review study addresses Uzbekistan's economic geography and agricultural development, focusing on sustainable growth and food security. It aims to look at recent policy changes, growth patterns, and government policies in the agricultural sector through an economic and geographic lens. The importance of food security to Uzbekistan’s development and its impact on socioeconomic, demographic, and environmental issues form the basis for this study. The priority the government places on food security is reflected in policies based on availability, accessibility, utilization, and sustainability. Key studies examined include the Agricultural Development Strategy 2020–2030, which aims to strengthen the competitiveness of the agri-food sector and introduce agricultural reforms. In addition, the report examines agricultural GDP growth, the sector's contribution to the national economy, and liberalization and international trade partnership efforts. The report concludes that innovation and technology transfer are key to sustainable agricultural growth. All in all, this report highlights the challenges and opportunities Uzbekistan faces to achieve sustainable agricultural growth and food security. By examining recent initiatives and trends, valuable insights can be gained into the country's economic competitiveness, prosperity, and resilience in the agricultural sector.
Early life lipid overload in Native American myopathy is phenocopied by stac3 knock out in zebrafish
Authors: Donaka Rajashekar , Zheng Houfeng , karasik david , karasik david
Published: August 2023

Understanding the early stages of human congenital myopathies is critical for proposing strategies for improving skeletal muscle performance by restoring the functional integrity of cytoskeleton. SH3 and cysteine-rich domain 3 (Stac3) is a protein involved in nutrient sensing, and is an essential component of the excitation-contraction (EC) coupling machinery for Ca2+ releasing. A mutation in STAC3 causes debilitating Native American myopathy (NAM) in humans, and loss of this gene in mice and zebrafish resulted in death in early life. Previously, NAM patients demonstrated increased lipids in skeletal muscle biopsy. However, whether elevated neutral lipids could alter muscle function in NAM disease is now well understood. Here, using a CRISPR/Cas9 induced stac3 knockout (KO) zebrafish model, we determined that loss of stac3 led to muscle weakness, as evidenced by delayed larval hatching. We observed decreased whole-body Ca2+ level at 5 days post-fertilization (dpf) and defects in the skeletal muscle cytoskeleton, i.e., F-actin and slow muscle fibers at 5 and 7 dpf. To this end, myogenesis regulators such as myoD and myf5, were significantly altered in stac3−/− larvae at 5 dpf. Homozygous larvae exhibited elevated neutral lipid levels at 5 dpf, which persisted beyond 7 dpf, followed by a progressive demise of the KO larva by 11 dpf. In summary, the presented findings suggest that stac3−/− can serve as a non-mammalian model to identify lipid-lowering molecules for refining muscle function in NAM patients.
Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus triggers ISR involving SA and JA/Et defense-related pathways to respond against Ralstonia solanacearum in Arabidopsis and optimizes the cellular redox state maintaining reduced FITNESS levels.
Authors: Sre María Sol , Ripa María Belén , Gallozo Julieta Andrea , Bettucci Gabriel Roberto , Ferretti Matías Damián , D´Attilio Luciano David , Martínez María Laura , Orellano Elena Graciela , Rodriguez María Victoria
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims: Pest biocontrol mechanisms are beneficial effects provided by plant-PGPBEs association and remain to be elucidated. Therefore, we evaluated the possible signaling pathways involved in Arabidopsis plant defense inoculated with beneficial endophytic bacterium Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus and phytopathogen Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum.
Methods: Anatomical, physiological and genetic responses during GD-ISR (activated by inoculation with G. diazotrophicus Pal5), RP-IR (activated by inoculation with R. pseudosolanacearum GMI1000) and GDRP-ISR (both bacteria) were analyzed. Col-0, sid2 mutant and transgenic NahG were used for these studies and defense-related genes from SA and JA/Et pathways were investigated.
Results: sid2 plants showed reduced colonization by G. diazotrophicus with respect to Col-0 plants and increases in xylem tissue in stems and roots of inoculated sid228 dpi plants were less significant than those observed in Col-0. Pr1 transcripts were augmented in inoculated Col-0 plants, while pdf 1.2 levels remained unaltered, indicating a strong role of the SA pathway during GD-ISR. Transcripts myc2 levels were elevated during GD-ISR and upon R. pseudosolanacearum infection levels of pdf 1.2 increased significantly, indicating that G. diazotrophicus primes the defense response against R. pseudosolanacearum. During RP-IR, pdf1.2 levels increased indicating activation of the JA pathway by R. pseudosolanacearum. G. diazotrophicusmanaged to maintain low levels of fitness during GD-ISR and GDRP-ISR, leading to optimization of the stress responses network.
Conclusions: G. diazotrophicus utilizes the SA pathway for effective colonization and GD-ISR activation, and primes the JA defense pathway during GD-ISR to protect Arabidopsis against the R. pseudosolanacearum during GDRP-ISR.
Automated Classification of Undegraded and Aged Polyethylene Terephthalate Microplastics from ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Enyoh Christian Ebere , Wang Qingyue
Published: August 2023

Automated analysis of microplastics is essential due to the labor-intensive, time-consuming, and error-prone nature of manual methods. Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy offers valuable molecular information about microplastic composition. However, efficient data analysis tools are required to effectively differentiate between various types of microplastics due to the large volume of spectral data generated by ATR-FTIR. In this study, we propose a machine learning (ML) approach utilizing ATR-FTIR spectroscopy data for accurate and efficient classification of undegraded and aged polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics (MPs). We evaluate seven ML algorithms, including Random Forest (RF), Gradient Boosting (GB), Decision Tree (DT), k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN), Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), to assess their performance. The models were optimized using 5-fold cross-validation and evaluated using multiple metrics such as confusion matrix, accuracy, precision, recall (sensitivity), and F1-score. The experimental results demonstrate exceptional performance by RF, GB, DT, and k-NN models, achieving an accuracy of 99% in correctly classifying undegraded and aged PET MPs. The proposed approach capitalizes on the potential of ATR-FTIR spectra to discern distinct chemical signatures of undegraded and aged PET particles, enabling precise and reliable classification. Furthermore, the method offers the benefit of automating the classification process, streamlining the analysis of environmental samples. It also presents the advantage of providing an effective means for method standardization, facilitating more automated and optimized extraction of information from spectral data. The method's versatility and potential for large-scale application make it a valuable contribution to the field of MP environmental research.