bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MHESMMR: A multilevel model for Predicting the Regulation of miRNAs Expression by Small Molecules
Authors: Guan Yong-jian , Yu Chang-Qing , Li Li-Ping , You Zhu-Hong , Wei Meng-meng , Wang Xin-Fei , Guo Lu-Xiang , Yang Chen
Published: September 2023

According to the expression of miRNA in pathological processes, miRNAs can be divided into oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Prediction of the regulation relations between miRNAs and small molecules (SMs) becomes a vital goal for miRNA-target therapy. But traditional biological approaches are laborious and expensive. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop a computational model. In this study, we proposed a computational model to predict whether the regulatory relationship between miRNAs and SMs is up-regulated or down-regulated. Specifically, we first use the Large-scale Information Network Embedding (LINE) algorithm to construct the node features from the self-similarity networks, then use the General Attributed Multiplex Heterogeneous Network Embedding (GATNE) algorithm to extract the topological information from the attribute network, and finally utilize the LightGBM algorithm to predict the regulatory relationship between miRNAs and SMs. In the 5-fold cross-validation experiment, the average accuracies of the proposed model on the SM2miR dataset reached 79.59% and 80.37% for up-regulation pairs and down-regulation pairs, respectively. In addition, we compared our model with another published model. Moreover, in the case study for 5-FU, 7 of 10 candidate miRNAs are confirmed by related literature. Therefore, we believe that our model can promote the research of miRNA-targeted therapy.
Identification of volatile metabolites produced from gut microbial levodopa metabolism using an untargeted metabolomics approach
Authors: Pennington Taylor R. , Eshima Jarrett , Smith Barbara S.
Published: September 2023

Interspecies pathways in the gut microbiome have been shown to metabolize levodopa, the primary treatment for Parkinson’s disease, and reduce its bioavailability. While the enzymatic reactions have been identified, the ability to establish the resulting macromolecules as biomarkers of microbial metabolism remains technically challenging. In this study, we leveraged an untargeted mass spectrometry-based approach to investigate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced during levodopa metabolism byEnterococcus faecalis,Clostridium sporogenes, andEggerthella lenta. We cultured these organisms with and without their respective bioactive metabolites and detected levodopa-induced shifts in VOC profiles. We then utilized bioinformatics to identify significant differences in 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, 4,6-dimethylpyrimidine, and 4,5-dimethylpyrimidine associated with its biotransformation. Supplementing cultures with inhibitors of levodopa-metabolizing enzymes revealed specific modulation of levodopa-associated diazines, verifying their relationship to its metabolism. Furthermore, functional group analysis depicts strain-specific VOC profiles that reflect interspecies differences in metabolic activity that can be leveraged to assess microbiome functionality in individual patients. Collectively, this work identifies previously uncharacterized metabolites of microbiome-mediated levodopa metabolism with applications for point-of-care testing and offers an alternative approach to evaluate interindividual differences in treatment response.
Comparative efficacy and safety of almonertinib and osimertinib for advanced non-cellular lung cancer: a real-world non-inferiority study
Authors: Qi Rongbin , Fu Xinyu , Liang Jiawei , Yu Yingying , Xu Hailing , Shen Mo , He Susu , Lv Dongqing
Published: September 2023

Background Almonertinib is an oral third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). It has exhibited substantial antitumor efficacy and well-tolerated toxicity in prior clinical investigations. This study investigated the non-inferiority of almonertinib compared to osimertinib in patients with advanced EGFR-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Method In this retrospective analysis, patients with EGFR-positive NSCLC, experiencing progression after treatment with first- or second-generation EGFR-TKIs were administered either almonertinib or osimertinib, with or without concomitant treatment with anti-angiogenic agents and chemotherapy, until disease progression or the occurrence of unacceptable drug toxicity.
Result One hundred eighty-two patients were enrolled in the study and categorized into two groups based on the method of administration: almonertinib (n=79) and osimertinib (n=103). Thirty-nine percent of these patients had central nervous system metastases. Almonertinib exhibited efficacy comparable to that of osimertinib considering progression-free survival (PFS) (HR 0.92, 95% CI 0.65-1.31; median PFS 9.63 months vs. 11.4 months; p=0.65). EGFR-T790M mutations were observed in 75% and 87% of the almonertinib and osimertinib groups, with a median PFS of 15.37 and 12.0 months, respectively, of the two groups (p=0.39). Overall, both groups had manageable safety profile, with the majority being grade 2 and below adverse event. Compared to patients taking osimertinib, those taking almonertinib had fewer drug-related adverse reactions, mainly in terms of subjective patient perception, including onychomycosis, diarrhea, mouth ulcers, and skin rash.
Conclusion Almonertinib may be a potentially superior treatment option for patients with advanced NSCLC harboring EGFR mutations, as it demonstrates comparable efficacy to osimertinib while significantly reducing adverse reactions.
Spatiotemporal variability of droughts over the Arabian Peninsula and associated mechanisms
Authors: Saharwardi Md Saquib , Dasari Hari Prasad , Gandham Harikishan , Ashok Karumuri , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: September 2023

This study examines the spatiotemporal variability of drought and associated physical processes over the Arabian Peninsula (AP). For this purpose, we computed the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) for the period 1951–2020 using the Climate Research Unit and ERA5 Reanalysis datasets. By applying rotated empirical orthogonal function analysis on the SPEI data, we identified four homogeneous and coherent drought regions. In comparison with the southern region, the droughts in the northern homogeneous regions were more significantly correlated. All four sub-regions of the AP exhibit a significant drying trend (p < 0.01) with an abrupt acceleration in drought frequency and intensity over the last two decades. The increase in droughts is associated with the reduction of synoptic activity and an increase in the high pressure over the AP. Seasonally, potential evapotranspiration is the dominant driver of summer droughts in the AP, whereas both precipitation and temperature are important for driving winter droughts. The summer droughts, mainly over the northern AP, are due to the occurrence of an anomalous equivalent barotropic high associated with anomalous dry and hot conditions. However, anomalous dry conditions in winter are a result of an anomalous paucity of winter storms caused by the weakening of the sub-tropical jets.
Factors influencing vitamin B6 status in domestic cats: age, body condition score, and inflammation
Authors: Chu Vy , Fascetti Andrea J. , Larsen Jennifer A. , Montano Maria , Giulivi Cecilia
Published: September 2023

Limited studies are available on the vitamin B6 status in domestic cats. To this end, we evaluated glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase activity in hemolysates with and without pyridoxal 5’-phosphate supplementation in two feline populations: a cohort of 60 domestic (sexually intact and specific pathogen-free) cats maintained under strictly controlled conditions with optimal diets (Feline Nutrition and Pet Care Center) and a cohort of 57 cats randomly selected between December 2022 to January 2023 that visited the Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital to seek care under different circumstances. We analyzed the data based on the animal's age, sex, body condition score, and diagnosis to elucidate the main factors driving vitamin B6 deficiencies in domestic cats. Based on the age and body condition scores, most cats with vitamin B6 deficiency had a low body condition score (41.7%), suggesting low food intake and/or malassimilation, as most were of advanced age (≥7 y old; 66.7%). This result is consistent with the increased energy requirements and compromised digestibility in older cats linked to a higher proportion of underweight elderly cats. When the data of vitamin B6-deficient cats were analyzed in terms of medical diagnosis, most (58.4%) had a condition associated with an increased inflammatory response, whether through an infection (feline coronavirus; 25%) or via diseases associated directly or indirectly with an inflammatory response (33.4%). Thus, our study supports that vitamin B6 supplementation may be indicated in older animals, especially those undergoing an active inflammation process.
Evaluation of the Uroanalysis Values of Canines Supplemented With Porcine Peptides and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Acero Kelvin Roberto Pinto , Cárdenas Diego Mauricio Buitrago , Molano Carlos Eduardo Rodríguez , Romero Melisa Daniela Munevar
Published: September 2023

Bioactive peptides have considerable animal health promoting properties. The effects of supplementation with collagen peptides and vitamin C (PolyPet®) on urinalysis were evaluated in a total of 24 Labrador retrievers with similar feeding and handling characteristics randomly selected into three groups (control group, group 1, and group 1). 2). The treatments consisted of supplementing a group with 6.6 gr daily with PolyPet®, group 2 with 3.3 gr and the last group (control group) without any supplementation. Urine samples were taken at days 0, 30 and 60 from the 24 canines in the study. The urinalysis parameters evaluated were protein, ascorbic acid, urinary protein/urinary creatinine ratio (UP/UC), nitrites, specific gravity, crystalluria, pH, calciuria, odor, creatinuria, and body weight. It was determined that there was no significant difference between the values ​​of urinary protein presence, in group 1 the UP/UC ratio increased slightly. In the presence of crystals, there was no significant difference compared to the three groups. For amorphous urate and uric acid crystals, there was an increase with porcine collagen peptide supplementation and the variables triple phosphate, struvite crystals and weight loss were positively affected by supplementation. The use of collagen peptides and vitamin C (PolyPet®) demonstrated positive effects on the health of canines, being considered as a safe food for healthy individuals.
Comparing Gut Microbiota Discrepancies between Primary Sjogren's Syndrome and Healthy Controls: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhao Qian , Han Minghua , Du Yage , Zheng Jie , Cao Zhaoming , Lu Yao , Lu Yanhui
Published: September 2023

Background: The importance of the gut microbiota in primary Sjogren’s syndrome is gaining significant recognition. This systematic review summarized the previous findings on the discrepancies in gut microbiota between patients with primary Sjogren’s syndrome and healthy controls.
Methods: From the establishment of the database until September 1, 2023, we conducted searches using electronic databases. We were interested in identifying specific bacterial changes between primary Sjogren’s syndrome and healthy controls as our primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included exploring the relationship between gut microbiota and clinical parameters. To assess the quality of the included studies, we used the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.
Results: A total of 9 articles were included in the analysis, comprising 504 case groups and 1313 control groups. According to two or more of the included studies, it was found that the gut microbiota of primary Sjogren’s syndrome patients was characterized by decreased butyrate-producing bacteria and increased pro-inflammatory microorganisms, as well as significantly lower levels of Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, and Proteobacteria. Furthermore, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was lower in patients with primary Sjogren’s syndrome than in controls. Finally, it was found that Roseburia has been shown to have a negative correlation with disease activity, as well as a negative correlation with IL-12 and IL-6.
Conclusions: Patients with primary Sjogren’s syndrome exhibited reduced diversity in their gut microbiota and decreased abundance of short-chain fatty acid producers, which may offer potential therapeutic targets for future interventions.
Trial registration: CRD42023421915.
Corn processing by pulsed electric fields with respect to microbial inactivation and improvement of seed vigour
Authors: Evrendilek Gulsun Akdemir , Atmaca Bahar , Uzuner Sibel
Published: September 2023

Pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment of corn grains as an alternative to improve seed vigour and inactivation of endogenous microflora by energies ranging from 1.20 to 28.8 J were applied to determine effectiveness of applied energies on germination rate (GR), normal seedling rate (NSR), electrical conductivity (EC), ability to germinate under salt (100- and 200 mM salt) and cold (at 10 C for 7 days and at 25C for 5 days) stresses in addition to inactivation of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria (TAMB), total mold and yeast (TMY), and inactivation rate (%) of Aspergillus parasiticus. Increased energy provided 11.10% increase in GR, 21.22% increase in NSR, 95.50% increase in germination at 10 °C for 7 days, 32.53% increase in germination at 24 °C for 5 days, 68.35% increase under 100 mM- and 76% increase under 200 mM NaCI salt stresses. EC of the corn grains significantly affected by the measurement time rather than PEF treatment. Inactivation on the mean initial TAMB and TMY were approximately 9.25 and 7.93 log, respectively, with 63.33 ± 0.22% reduction in A. parasiticus culture. Optimization studies revealed 300 Hz, 28.80 J, and 19.78 sec as the most optimal processing parameters. PEF treated corn seedlings had stronger and taller body formation with stronger roots. PEF treatment carries a high potential to improve corn vigour with inactivation of surface microflora.
Paper based and mobile application based self-monitoring tool for healthy dietary intake, Development and Applicability: A non-randomized trial
Authors: Godevithana Janaka , Wijesinghe Champa , Wijesinghe Supun
Published: September 2023

Background and objectives Unhealthy diet is a key risk factor for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) that contribute to increased morbidity and premature mortality. With increased computer literacy and mobile phone penetration there is a high opportunity for mobile application-based interventions. Therefore, the study was conducted to develop a mobile application for self-monitoring of dietary intake and assess it acceptability and effectiveness in diet control
Materials and methods Mobile application was developed based on research evidence and opinions of local experts. Mobile application was introduced to a selected group of participants (who were in preparation, action, maintenance stages of TTM) and a paper-based intervention was used as the comparison. Socio demographic data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire and participants were followed up for three months for adherence and effectiveness of interventions was assessed at the end comparing progressive change in stage of change and changed to healthy dietary intake between two groups as primary and secondary outcomes respectively. The study was registered in Sri Lankan Clinical Trail Registry (Registration no - SLCTR/2020/025)
Results Among 123 office workers participated in the study 19.5% preferred the mobile intervention over the paper-based intervention. Younger, not married office workers with no child had higher acceptance for the mobile intervention (p<0.05). There was no difference of adherence (in all three months) and outcome between two groups of intervention.
Discussion As office workers used to do paper works, they might have preferred the paper-based intervention while increased usage of smart phones in younger population might have contributed to higher acceptance in younger age group.
Conclusion and recommendations Mobile application-based interventions are better accepted among young age group and further studies are recommended to explore the applicability
Trial registration The study was registered in Sri Lankan Clinical Trail Registry (Registration no - SLCTR/2020/025 Date 15th December 2020)
The correlation between cognitive control and relational aggression of Sportsmen adults: How do emerging learning technologies matter?
Authors: Zhang Jun , Xie Chao
Published: September 2023

Background
This rapidly evolving world, sports dynamics and athletes' cognitive attributes have become subjects of heightened interest. Emerging technologies have also contributed greatly to different fields, particularly physical education.
Purpose
This study delves into the intriguing correlation between cognitive control and relational aggression among adult sportsmen, shedding light on the pivotal role of emerging learning technologies in this context.
Methodology
: A mixed-methods research design was employed. A diverse sample of adult athletes from various sports disciplines was purposively selected to ensure gender, age, and skill level representation. Quantitative data were collected through standardized psychometric assessments measuring cognitive control and self-reported relational aggression. Qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews with a subset of participants. Statistical analyses, including correlation tests and regression analyses, were applied to examine the relationships between cognitive control and relational aggression. Qualitative data from interviews underwent thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes related to the influence of innovative learning technologies on cognitive control and aggression management in sports.
Findings:
Quantitative findings revealed a negative correlation between the sportsmen cognitive control and relational aggression, but the correlation between proactive and reactive relational aggression was significantly positive. Qualitative data revealed 5 main themes each consisting of 5 sub-themes.
Conclusions
A significant negative correlation between sportsmen's cognitive control and relational aggression underscores the importance of cognitive control in mitigating relational aggression among athletes, highlighting its potential as a valuable target for intervention and training programs aimed at promoting healthier social dynamics within sporting communities. Intriguingly, the positive correlation between proactive and reactive relational aggression suggests that these two forms of relational aggression are not mutually exclusive but may, in fact, co-occur within the context of sports.
Implications:
These findings collectively contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the cognitive and social dynamics at play among adult sportsmen. They offer valuable insights into the development of tailored interventions and training strategies, which may not only enhance cognitive control but also address the complex nature of relational aggression in sports settings. Ultimately, such interventions have the potential to foster healthier and more harmonious sporting communities.
Impact of Mobile Financial Services on Financial Inclusion: Empirical Insights from Kenya
Authors: Warsame Mohammed , Abdalla Yousif Abdelbagi
Published: September 2023

The study employed a cross-sectional design, collecting data in Nairobi County's Kasarani constituency. The participants consisted of entrepreneurs and customers present at the stalls during the interviews. While previous research has shown the positive impact of mobile money on financial inclusion in Africa, there has been a lack of investigation into the potential role of demographic variables in the continuous intention to use mobile money applications. This study aims to address this research gap. The results indicate that in East Africa, mobile money applications are primarily used for borrowing loans rather than for saving purposes. Additionally, the study revealed that gender plays a reinforcing role in the positive relationship between confirmation, perceived satisfaction, and the extended post-acceptance model of mobile money application usage.
Male patients with higher C-peptide have significantly positive hormone counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia among patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: He Yijia , Ye Miaomin , Li Qian
Published: September 2023

Purpose
Hypoglycemia is a frequent complication of diabetes, hindering treatment efficacy and elevating mortality rates. Hypoglycemia prompts a counterregulatory response (CRR) striving to restore normoglycemia. Hormonal counterregulation is crucial in orchestrating this hypoglycemic response. Our study aimed to investigate the correlations between levels of pertinent counterregulatory hormones and diverse clinical parameters in both type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and to compare these hormonal profiles between T1DM and T2DM.
Methods
This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the variables associated with levels of relevant counterregulatory hormones in hospitalized individuals diagnosed with T1DM (n = 71) and T2DM (n = 185), who experienced hypoglycemic episodes. This goal was achieved using separate univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses. The evaluated counterregulatory hormones included glucagon, growth hormone (GH), cortisol, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), all measured during hypoglycemic episodes. Subsequently, the hormone levels were compared between patients diagnosed with T1DM and those with T2DM. Multiple imputation techniques were used to address missing data and rectify the dataset.
Results
Among patients with T2DM, multiple linear regression analysis revealed significant positive associations during hypoglycemia: fasting C-peptide levels were positively correlated with glucagon levels; male gender showed positive correlations with both GH and cortisol levels; hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) had positive correlations with ACTH levels; and polyneuropathy exhibited positive correlations with ACTH levels. Among patients with T1DM, multiple linear regression analysis disclosed a substantial positive link between nephropathy and cortisol levels during hypoglycemia. After adjusting for confounding factors, there were no significant differences in counterregulatory hormone levels during hypoglycemia between patients with T1DM and T2DM.
Conclusion
In patients with T2DM, elevated fasting C-peptide levels were associated with increased glucagon responses, and male gender was associated with enhanced GH and cortisol responses to hypoglycemia. Furthermore, elevated HbA1c levels and polyneuropathy were correlated with an increased ACTH response to hypoglycemia. Nephropathy in patients with T1DM was found to be associated with an augmented cortisol response during hypoglycemia. No significant differences in counterregulatory hormone levels during hypoglycemia were observed between patients with T1DM and T2DM.
Biofluorescent response in lumpfish Cyclopterus lumpus to a therapeutic procedure as assessed by hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Juhasz-Dora Thomas , Lindberg Stein-Kato , Karlsen Amanda , Ortega Samuel
Published: September 2023

The demand for lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) as a biological control for salmon lice is increasing. However, lumpfish welfare is considered a limiting factor within aquaculture operations. Identifying a noninvasive parameter that measures subclinical stress in lumpfish is a key goal for improving their welfare. The lumpfish is amongst many marine species documented to biofluoresce within the blue shifted light of their environment. Lumpfish (n = 80) underwent a 3-hour freshwater bath therapeutant to evaluate whether fluorescence spectra produced by the species responds to external stimuli. Lumpfish were quickly scanned under a hyperspectral camera (400–1000 nm spectral range) prior to and after treatment. Here we show that lumpfish fluorescence responds to freshwater exposure within a controlled experiment. All three experimental groups increased their fluorescence in response to treatment, though the level of change depended on whether the averaged, red, or green spectra was analyzed; the control group remained consistent. The mean emission spectra differ between groups, particularly between 690 to 750 nm. All lumpfish emit green fluorescence while a segment (49%) produced red fluorescence. As lumpfish fluorescence shifts in response to the applied therapeutant, this study provides insight into how fluorescence may be incorporated into the welfare management of an aquatic species.
Experimental hut and field evaluation of a metofluthrin based spatial repellent against pyrethroid resistant Anopheles funestus in Siaya County, western Kenya
Authors: Agumba Silas , Moshi Vincent , Muchoki Margaret , Omondi Seline , Kosgei Jackline , Walker Edward D. , Abong’o Bernard , Achee Nicole , Grieco John , Ochomo Eric
Published: September 2023

Background
Sustained transmission of malaria, despite high coverage of indoor-based interventions (including long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor residual spraying of insecticides), may be attributable to exposure of people to infectious bites outdoors or at times other than when people are sleeping under bed nets, or to insecticide resistance. Spatial repellents (SR) may complement current vector control tools and provide coverage under these conditions of residual transmission. Here we assessed the efficacy of a metofluthrin based SR in reducing exposure to pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles funestus in Siaya County, western Kenya.
Methods
The active ingredient, metofluthrin, was vaporized into the air by heat generated from an emanator configured to a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) canister, placed inside experimental huts (Phase 1) or outdoors (Phase 2). Phase 1 evaluated effects of combustion of LPG gas with no metofluthrin, as in use of an LPG cook stove indoors; or vaporization by LPG combustion of metofluthrin for 1, 2, 4, or 12 hours; on indoor mosquito density as measured by landing rate on humans and aspiration of mosquitoes from hut walls, as well as mosquito knockdown and mortality rates. Phase 2 evaluated the protective range of the SR product while emanating from the centre of a team of mosquito collectors sitting outdoors in north, south, east, and west directions at 1.5, 3 and 6 meters from the emanating device.
Results
Combustion of LPG with a cook stove increased density of Anopheles funestus indoors by 51% over controls with no cook stove. In contrast, huts with metofluthrin vaporized with LPG combustion had lower indoor densities of Anopheles funestus (99.3% less than controls), with knockdown and mortality rates of 95.5 and 87.7% respectively in the mosquitoes collected in the treated huts. In the outdoor study (Phase 2), the outdoor landing rate was significantly lower at 1.5 and 3 m compared to 6 m away from the emanator.
Conclusion
Vaporized metofluthrin almost completely prevented An. funestus landing indoors and led to 10 times lower landing rates within 10ft of the emanator outdoors, the first product to demonstrate such potential. Cooking with LPG inside the house could increase exposure to Anopheles mosquito bites but the use of the metofluthrin canister eliminates this risk.
Field-evolved resistance of Rachiplusia nu to Cry1Ac Bt soybean in Argentina
Authors: Hill Jorge G , Jerez Paula G Páez , Linares Facundo J Herrera , Alzogaray Raúl A , Vera MT Teresa , Pereira Eliseu J G
Published: September 2023

Large-scale adoption of genetically engineered soybeans expressing insecticidal proteins fromBacillus thuringiensis(Bt) in South America allow us to understand the ability of pest populations to evolve resistance to Bt crops. Here, we examined the susceptibility ofRachiplusia nu(Guenée) andChrysodeixis includens(Walker) (Noctuidae: Plusiinae) collected from Cry1Ac Bt and non-Bt soybean fields in Argentina, specifically in the Provinces of Santiago del Estero (Rnu-SE), Córdoba (Rnu-COR), and Tucumán (Cin-TUC), to Cry1Ac toxin. In Cry1Ac-overlay bioassays, the lethal concentration to kill 50% of the larvae (LC50) of Rnu-COR and Cin-TUC populations were 113 and 1,500 ng/cm2, respectively. The lower limit of the LC50value for Rnu-SE larvae was > 21,679 ng/cm2, at least 14-fold the LC50value for Cin-TUC larvae and at least 192-fold the LC50value for Rnu-COR larvae. A similar pattern emerged from the effective Cry1Ac concentrations that inhibited 50% of larval growth. In larval feeding assays using Bt soybean leaves, Rnu-SE insects had higher survival rates than Rnu-COR and Cin-TUC ones. In behavioral assays with Bt and non-Bt soybean plants, theR. numoths showed a strong oviposition preference for the Cry1Ac Bt over non-Bt soybean plants. These results indicate that a population ofR. nuevolved Cry1Ac resistance in Argentina, consistent with the increased number of plusiine loopers causing unexpected damage in Cry1Ac Bt soybean fields. That may correlate with moth oviposition behavior, and further research should guide locally adapted strategies to minimize the resistance drawbacks and maximize the benefits of Bt crops.
Paenibacillus jiangxiensis sp. nov., isolated from lakeside soil
Authors: QM Xu , Liu Bin , Wan Yingying , Jiang Xueting , Mao Dongmei , Chen Gang , Cheng Dan , He Jian , Shen Qirong
Published: September 2023

A Gram-stain-positive, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium, designated JX-17T, was isolated from a lakeside soil sample collected in Jiangxi Province, PR China. Growth was observed at 15–48°C (optimum 37°C), at pH 5.0–9.0 (optimum pH 7.0) and with 0–5.0% (w/v) NaCl (optimum 1.0%). Strain JX-17T showed less than 95.3% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with species of the genus Paenibacillus. In the phylogenetic tree based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, strain JX-17T was clustered in the genus Paenibacillus and formed a subclade with P. gelatinilyticus PG1T (95.2%), P. bovis BD3526T (94.9%), P. wulumuqiensis Y24T (94.9%) and P. shenyangensis A9T (94.3%). The major cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15:0, iso-C16:0, anteiso-C17:0 and C16:0, the predominant respiratory quinone was MK-7, the major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, an unidentified glycolipid, an aminophospholipid and a phosphatidylinositol. The diagnostic diamino acid of the peptidoglycan was meso-diaminopimelic acid, and the DNA G + C content was 50.1 mol%. Based on the phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics, strain JX-17T represents a novel species within the genus Paenibacillus, for which the name Paenibacillus jiangxiensis sp. nov is proposed, with strain JX-17T (= KCTC 92851T = CCTCC AB 2022396T) as the type strain.
Insulin/C-peptide molar ratio is not influenced by plasma glucose level in patients with EIAS
Authors: Zhang Linshan , Yao Fei , Lu Zhiqiang , Li Xiaoying , Li Xiaomu , Chen Hong
Published: September 2023

Background
Exogenous insulin antibody syndrome (EIAS) can lead to induction of insulin antibody and sequentially recurrent hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Insulin to C-peptide molar ratio (I/C ratio) is used to judge the reason of hypoglycemia when it occurs, however its change under different glucose level in EIAS is unknown.
Methods
Data from patients with T2DM and EIAS who were admitted to the department of endocrinology were retrospectively analyzed from January 2018 to March 2020.
Results
A total of 16 patients with T2DM and EIAS were included. All patients reported symptoms of hypoglycemia. The average age of the EIAS patients was 65.7 ± 9.6 years, and the average duration of diabetes was 14.2 ± 7.3 years. Among these patients, 6 were using Novolin 30R, 4 were using with Humalog Mix 25, 2 were using with Novolin N, NovoMix30, Humalog and Lantus, respectively. Patients were then divided into one group with detected hypoglycemia and the other group with undetected hypoglycemia. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of liver and kidney functions, hemoglobin and HbA1c. Similarly, no differences were found in levels of insulin and C-peptide, as well as I/C ratio when the glucose level changed. All 16 patients ceased insulin therapy, and no hypoglycemia occurred after transition to oral drugs.
Conclusion
I/C ratio is not influenced by plasma glucose level in patients with T2DM and EIAS. Therefore, it could be tested regardless of glucose level in patients with EIAS.
Enhancing Outpatient Follow-Up Efficacy through AI-Assisted Medical Technology
Authors: Yang Shuyue , Huang Yufei , Jin Wei , You Chao , Wang Jian , Liu Yinghui , Chen Guangyu , Wang Yaosheng , Zhang Xi , Sun Xin , Wang Rui
Published: September 2023

Background
The responsibility of managing chronic diseases and executing postoperative follow-ups imposes a significant workload on medical professionals. The current absence of unified and consolidated plans to improve follow-up efficiency led to our exploration of the impact of varying patient follow-up procedures on compliance levels, with an objective to develop a more effective follow-up strategy.
Methods
A cohort comprising a total of 14,012 patients from seven hospitals located across five provinces in China was subjected to a follow-up questionnaire delivered via one of four methods: a phone call, a text message, WeChat, or an AI-assisted procedure. Each method's efficacy was assessed based on the completion rate of the follow-up questionnaires. Further, comparisons were drawn among these methods considering diverse patient characteristics such as age and gender and considering the date and time of the follow-up.
Results
The average completion rate across all follow-up questionnaires was calculated at 86.6% (standard deviation: 19.56%). Among the methods, phone calls boasted the highest completion rate of 99.97%, followed by WeChat at 89.48%, and finally, AI at 85.55%. Regardless of the method employed, women displayed significantly higher completion rates than men (OR: 2.39, 95% CI: 2.202.60, P < 0.001). In the case of patients over 50 years of age, the AI method demonstrated a significantly higher completion rate than both text messages and WeChat, even though phone calls still dominated with the highest completion rate. As the number of questions in the questionnaire increased, the completion rates saw a consistent drop across all methods. Notably, participant compliance was higher during working weekday mornings than non-working mornings (OR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.622.28, P < 0.001). Despite variations in age and gender, AI emerged as the most potent method, with completion rates hitting 71.47% in men aged between 40–49 years during non-working hours on a workday, and 94.79% in women aged under 40 years on non-working days.
Conclusions
While the AI follow-up method did not outperform traditional methods in terms of completion rate, it did represent the best approach for obtaining patient data across a wide range of demographics and times.
Comprehensive profiling the immune-status of a broad range of in vivo syngeneic models to support IO development and to accurately predict clinical benefit of therapy
Authors: Li Wentao , Li Qiuliang , Li Guannan , Xiu Jinghui , Li Xiaodong , Zhang Lu , Ning Chunhong , Yun Wei , Huang Jingqi
Published: September 2023

Latterly with approval of PD-1, PD-L1 antibodies in clinical oncology, immunotherapy has gained recognition for changing the way of cancer treatment by joining chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Murine syngeneic tumor models are critical to novel immuno-based therapy development. Therefore, understood the nature immune status and tumor microenvironment of in vivo tumor models is very important to assist exploring immunotherapy. However, the translational relevance of differences between the models is not fully understanding. Herein, we extensively characterize various murine syngeneic tumor models, which revealed striking differences in immune status and tumor microenvironment. These will contribute to appropriate preclinical model selection for target validation and drug development. In this study, nearly 51 tumor cell lines over a broad range of tumor types as well as corresponding in vivo syngeneic models were intensively studied on their immune status under two conditions that tumor volume were 100 mm3 and 500 to 600 mm3. The effort has been focusing on the immune status including T cell status and levels of immune-suppression via FACS analysis of the population of CD45+ TILs, CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T cell, Tregs, MDSCs, macrophage. Furthermore, the expressions of immune related genes were analyzed by RT-PCR. The profiling data illustrated the expression of these genes are different on different tumor models. We believe that this profiling data will help many scientists to properly select correct model to support R&D and better understand how immune therapeutically agent acts in the immune system.
A novel reduced basis method for adjoint sensitivity analysis of dynamic topology optimization
Authors: Li Shuhao , Wang Hu , Yin Jichao , Jiang Xinchao , Zhang Yaya
Published: September 2023

In gradient-based time-domaintopology optimization, Design Sensitivity Analysis (DSA) of the dynamic response is essential, and requires high computational cost to directly differentiate, especially for high-order dynamic system. To address this issue, this study develops an efficient Reduced Basis Method(RBM)-based discrete adjoint sensitivity analysis method, which on the one hand significantly improves the efficiency of sensitivity analysis and on the other hand avoids the consistency errors caused by the continuum method. In this algorithm, the basis functions of the adjoint problem are constructed in the offline phase based on the greedy-POD method, and a novel model-based estimator is developed to accurately predict the true error for facilitating this process. Based on these basis functions, a fast and reasonably accurate model is then built by Galerkin projection for sensitivity analysis in each dynamic topology optimization iteration. Finally, the efficiency and accuracy of the suggest method are verified by 2D and 3D dynamic structure studies.
Longitudinal effect of Sleep Quality on Subsequent Peptic Ulcer Recurrence in Older Patients after Helicobacter Pylori Eradication: Roles of Pharmacological and Nonpharmacological Treatments
Authors: Huang Yuanyuan , Du Jiayuan , Zhang Mi , Chen Gengzhen
Published: September 2023

Purpose
This study examined whether poor sleep quality at baseline predict the subsequent recurrence of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) in older patients after H. pylori eradication, and to investigate whether nonpharmacological treatment and sleeping pills play a role in this association.
Method
s Of 1,126 older Chinese patients with H. pylori-infected PUD from Eight Grade-A hospitals in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) recruited between 2010 and 2015, 1,028 obtained H. pylori eradication and healed PUD by the end of 2015, and 950 were followed for up to 36 months. PUD recurrence was confirmed with esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Sleep quality at baseline was measured by the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). Information of use of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments was extracted from their medical and social service records.
Results
The results revealed that baseline poor sleep quality was associated with PUD recurrence during the 36-month follow-up period (HR 1.894 (1.007, 3.561)). However, older patients with poor sleep quality who consumed sleeping pills were more likely to experience PUD recurrence, compared to those with moderate-to-good sleep quality (HR 1.588 (1.126, 2.589)). No significant difference was noted between older patients with moderate-to- good sleep quality and those with poor sleep quality who used nonpharmacological sleep treatment alone (HR 1.395 (0.729, 2.669)) or who simultaneously used pharmacological and nonpharmacological sleep treatments (HR 1.162 (0.901, 2.286)).
Conclusions
Poor sleep quality is associated with a greater risk of PUD recurrence. However, using nonpharmacological sleep treatment may alter this trajectory.
Comparative analysis of the complete mitochondrial genomes of three Sisoridae (Osteichthyes, Siluriformes) and the phylogenetic relationships of Sisoridae
Authors: Wang Yunpeng , Zhang Chi , Liu Yifan , Zhang Shufei , Jin Xun , Zheng Sixu , Li Jiasheng , Peng Ying , Zhang Kun , Liu Bingjian
Published: September 2023

Background At present, the phylogenetic relationship of the Sisoridae is relatively chaotic. Objective This study systematically investigated the mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of three speciesCreteuchiloglanis kamengensis,Glaridoglanis andersonii, andExostomasp., reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships of the family and to determine the phylogenetic position ofExostomasp. within Sisoridae. Method The sample of three Sisoridae were collected and DNA were extracted. After sequencing, NOVOPlasty was used for sequence assembly. Annotate sequences with MITOS WebServer, tRNAscan-SE2.0, and NCBI database. MEGA was used for sequence analysis and Phylosuite was used for phylogenetic tree construction. Results The lengths of the mitogenomes’ sequences ofC. kamengensis,G. andersonii, andExostomasp were 16,589, 16,531, and 16,529 bp, respectively. They contained one identical control region (D-loop), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) and 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes among the three species. We applied two approaches, Bayesian Inference (BI) and Maximum Likelihood (ML), to build phylogenetic trees. Our findings revealed that the topological structure of both ML and BI trees exhibited significant congruence. Specifically, the monophyly of Sisorinae and Glyptosternoids was robustly supported in the ML tree. Conclusion It also proves that the current phylogenetic relationship of Sisoridae is relatively chaotic, and provides new molecular biology data support for the reconstruction of the phylogenetic relationship of Sisoridae. This study will be of great scientific value to the study of phylogeny and the genetic variation of Sisoridae.
Combining Ti 3 C 2 and C 3 N 4 Synergy in Chitosan-Based Nanocomposites: Unprecedented Photocatalytic and Antibacterial activities
Authors: Shanthini K. , Vel Selvam , C Anitha , N Rexin Alphonse , K.S Pushpavalli , V Gomathinayagam
Published: September 2023

The combined C3N4/Ti3C2 composite was created using a straightforward hydrothermal procedure, subsequently it was incorporated with chitosan and ultrasonically processed. The morphological characteristics, chemical composition, optical properties, and crystallographic information of the produced materials were ascertained using SEM-EDX, TEM, XRD, and UV-vis DRS. Under visible light exposure, the C3N4/Ti3C2@CS nanocomposite displayed significant photo-catalytic activity for the degradation of ofloxacin (OFX). Furthermore, the investigation explored the effect of various reaction parameters on the photocatalytic process. These criteria included the amount of catalyst used, the degree of pollutant in the system, and the inclusion of inorganic ions. Using the results of the tests, a possible charge transfer mechanism was suggested. Additionally, the antibacterial efficacy of the nanocomposites against microorganisms was greater. The improved photocatalytic activity of the nanocomposite was due to the synergistic effect of Ti3C2/C3N4 and CS, which results in efficient use of visible light and effective suppression of charge carrier recombination. Overall, this study reveals the possible use of C3N4/Ti3C2@CS in the photocatalytic removal of OFX from water.
ChatGPT giving advice on how to cheat in university assignments—how workable are its suggestions?
Authors: Spennemann Dirk , Biles Jessica , Lachlan Brown  , Ireland Matthew , Laura Longmore  , Clare Singh  , Wallis Anthony , Catherine Ward
Published: September 2023

The generative artificial intelligence (AI) language model ChatGPT is programmed not to provide answers that are unethical or that may cause harm to people. By setting up user-created role-plays designed to alter ChatGPT’s persona, ChatGPT can be prompted to answer with inverted moral valence supplying unethical answers. In this inverted moral valence mode ChatGPT was asked to provide suggestions on how to avoid being detected when commissioning and submitting contract written assignments. We conducted 30 iterations of the task, we examine the types of the suggested strategies and their likelihood of avoiding detection by markers, or, if detected, escaping a successful investigation of academic misconduct. Suggestions made by ChatGPT ranged from communications with contract writers and the general use of contract writing services to content blending and innovative distraction techniques. While the majority of suggested strategies has a low chance of escaping detection, recommendations related to obscuring plagiarism and content blending as well as techniques related to distraction have a higher probability of remaining undetected. We conclude that ChatGPT can be used with success as a brainstorming tool to provide cheating advice, but that its success depends on the vigilance of the assignment markers and the cheating student’s ability to distinguish between genuinely viable options and those that appear to be workable but are not. In some cases the advice given would actually decrease probability of remaining undetected.
Influence of Heavy Metals and Non-Cohesive Sediments on the Flocculation Behavior of Kaolin
Authors: Manaf Febina A , L Priya K
Published: September 2023

Flocculation of cohesive sediments are affected by various physical, chemical and biological factors. The present study investigated the effect of heavy metals on the flocculation of cohesive sediments and its resistance to breakage under the shear imparted by sand. Experimental investigations were conducted in a flocculator with varying speed agitator for various concentrations of Fe (II) (0mg/L, 0.1mg/L, 0.5mg/L, 1mg/L, 5mg/L, 10mg/L and 20mg/L) and sand (0%,10%,30%,40% and 50%) under different salinity conditions (0g/L, 15g/L and 30g/L). The floc characteristics were obtained using an image capturing and processing technique. The experimental results indicated that the addition of Fe (II) contributes to the floc formation as a result of aggregation of flocs, whereas the addition of sand to the Fe-kaolin suspension contributed to the breakup of flocs. The floc volume fraction of macroflocs were observed to increase with the increase in metal concentration. The increase in sand concentration led to an increase in the floc volume fraction of microflocs. Further the behavior of breakage coefficient of flocs on the addition of sand were analysed. It was observed that the breakage coefficient decreased with the increase in sand concentration. Further it was noticed that the flocs formed at higher Fe (II) concentration at high salinities possess higher breakage coefficient.