bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helicobacter pylori Infection in Infant Rhesus Macaque Monkeys is Associated with an Altered Lung and Oral Microbiome
Authors: Siegel Noah A. , Jimenez Monica T. , Rocha Clarissa Santos , Rolston Matthew , Dandekar Satya , Solnick Jay V. , Miller Lisa A.
Published: August 2023

Background
It is estimated that more than half of the world population has been infected with Helicobacter pylori. Most newly acquired H. pylori infections occur in children before 10 years of age. We hypothesized that early life H. pylori infection could influence the composition of the microbiome at mucosal sites distant to the stomach. To test this hypothesis, we utilized the infant rhesus macaque monkey as an animal model of natural H. pylori colonization to determine the impact of infection on the lung and oral microbiome during a window of postnatal development.
Results
From a cohort of 4–7-month-old monkeys, gastric biopsy cultures identified 44% of animals infected by H. pylori. 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing of lung washes and buccal swabs from animals showed distinct profiles for the lung and oral microbiome, independent of H. pylori infection. In relative order of abundance, the lung microbiome was dominated by the phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Fusobacteriota, Campilobacterota and Actinobacteriota while the oral microbiome was dominated by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Fusobacteriota. Relative to the oral cavity, the lung was composed of more genera and species that significantly differed by H. pylori status, with a total of 6 genera and species that were increased in H. pylori negative infant monkey lungs. Lung, but not plasma IL-8 concentration was also associated with gastric H. pylori load and lung microbial composition.
Conclusions
We found the infant rhesus macaque monkey lung harbors a microbiome signature that is distinct from that of the oral cavity during postnatal development. Gastric H. pylori colonization and IL-8 protein were linked to the composition of microbial communities in the lung and oral cavity. Collectively, these findings provide insight into how H. pylori infection might contribute to the gut-lung axis during early childhood and modulate future respiratory health.
Analysis of somatic GNAS mutations in a Chinese Acromegaly Cohort of 97 patients: Prevalence, Clinical characteristics and Gender differences
Authors: Yang Yamei , Yao Yong , Deng Kan , Xing Bin , Lian Wei , You Hui , Feng Feng , Lian Xin , Mao Xinxin , Gong Fengying , Wang Linjie , Chen Meiping , Ke Xiaoan , Miao Hui , Duan Lian , Zhu Huijuan
Published: August 2023

Background: Although somatic GNAS mutations were considered important cause of acromegaly currently, the GNAS mutation status in Chinese sporadic patients are unknown, and clinical characteristics of mutant patients are still uncertain.
Purpose: To investigate somatic GNAS mutation status and relevant clinical characteristics in Chinese sporadic acromegalic patients.
Results: Somatic GNAS heterozygous missense mutations happened in 44.3% (43/97) sporadic acromegaly patients. Mutant patients were males predominant (58.1% vs 33.3%, p=0.015), had longer diagnosis delay [72.0(48.0, 120.0) vs 36.0(21.0, 75.0) months, p=0.002], smaller tumor maximum diameter (1.75±0.83 vs 2.23±0.89cm, p=0.008) and higher GH secreted by per unit of tumor volume [18.93(9.67, 30.12) vs 10.91(2.80, 20.40) ng/mL/cm3, p=0.005]. As for gender differences, significantly higher baseline GH levels were only found in the comparison of male mutant patients to male mutation negative patients [24.40(14.40, 36.30) vs 10.55(5.25, 16.95) ng/mL, p=0.002], not in females. And much smaller tumor maximum diameter was only found in female GNAS mutated patients (1.55±0.55 vs 2.32±0.85cm, p<0.001), not in males.
Conclusions: GNAS mutations are common in Chinese sporadic acromegaly patients, and associated with smaller pituitary tumor sizes and stronger GH secretory functions, The clinical features of GNAS mutations can be affected by genders, and we proposed more attention should be paid on gender differences in the future clinical and basic studies of acromegaly.
Restraint stress, foot shock and corticosterone differentially alter autophagy in the rat hippocampus, basolateral amygdala and prefrontal cortex
Authors: Chen Yanmei , Zhou Xiaotao , Chu Boling , Xie Qunqun , Liu Zhenkun , Zhang Jichuan
Published: August 2023

Autophagy is a conserved lysosomal degradation process that has recently been found to be associated with stress-related psychological diseases. However, previous studies have yielded inconsistent results regarding the effects of various stress patterns on autophagy in different brain regions. This discrepancy may arise from differences in autophagy flux across nuclei, the type of stress experienced, and the timing of autophagy assessment after stress exposure. In this study, we assessed autophagy flux in the rat hippocampus (HPC), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and basal lateral amygdala (BLA) by quantifying protein levels of p-ULK1, LC3-I, LC3-II, and p62 via Western blot analysis at 15 min, 30 min, and 60 min following various stress paradigms: restraint stress, foot shock, single corticosterone injection, and chronic corticosterone treatment. We found that: 1) hippocampal autophagy decreased within 1 hour of restraint stress, foot shock, and corticosterone injection, except for a transient increase at 30 min after restraint stress; 2) autophagy increased 1 hour after restraint stress and corticosterone injection but decreased 1 hour after foot shock in mPFC,; 3) In BLA, autophagy increased 1 hour after foot shock and corticosterone injection but decreased 1 hour after restraint stress; 4) Chronic corticosterone increased autophagy in mPFC and BLA but had no effects in HPC. These findings reveal temporally and spatially distinct autophagy flux patterns in the brain within 1 hour of stress exposure. Such dichotomous responses may contribute to the development of stress-related psychological disorders.
Role of PATJ in Stroke Prognosis by modulating Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transition through the Hippo/Notch/PI3K Axis.
Authors: Vives-Bauza Cristofol , Medina-Dols Aina , Cañellas Guillem , Capó Toni , Sole Montserrat , Mola-Caminal Marina , Culell Natalia , Jaume Marina , Nadal Laura , Llinas Jaume , Gomez Lluis , Tur Silvia , Jimenez Carmen , Diaz-Navarro Rosa , Carrera Caty , Muiño Elena , Gallego-Fabriga Cristina , Soriano-Tarraga Carolina , Ruiz-Guerra Laura , Pol-Fuster Josep , Asensio Victor , Muncunill Josep , Fleischer Aarne , Iglesias Amanda , Giralt-Steinhauer Eva , Lazcano Uxue , Fernández-Pérez Isabel , Gabriel-Salazar Marina , Torres-Aguila Nuria , Carcel-Marquez Jara , Llado Jeronia , Olmos Gabriel , Rosell Anna , Montaner Joan , Planas Anna , Rabionet Raquel , Hernández-Guillamón Mar , Jimenez-Conde Jordi , Fernandez-Cadenas Israel
Published: August 2023

Through GWAS studies we identifiedPATJassociated with functional outcome after ischemic stroke (IS). The aim of this study was to determine PATJ role in brain endothelial cells (ECs) in the context of stroke outcome.PATJexpression analyses in patient’s blood revealed that: (i) the risk allele of rs76221407 induces higher expression ofPATJ, (ii)PATJis downregulated 24 hours after IS and (iii) its expression is significantly lower in those patients with functional independence, measured at 3 months with the modified Rankin scale ((mRS) £2), compared to those patients with marked disability (mRS=4-5). In mice brains,PATJwas also downregulated in the injured hemisphere at 24 hours after ischemia, and hypoxia-dependent of Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1a also caused PATJ depletion in ECs. To study the effects ofPATJdownregulation, we generatedPATJ-knockdown human microvascular ECs. Their transcriptomic profile evidenced a complex cell reprogramming involving Notch, TGF-ß, PI3K/Akt and Hippo signaling that translates in morphological and functional changes compatible with endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT). PATJ depletion caused loss of cell-cell adhesion, upregulation of metalloproteases, actin cytoskeleton remodeling, cytoplasmic accumulation of the signal transducer C-terminal transmembrane Mucin 1 (MUC1-C) and downregulation of Notch and Hippo signaling. The EndMT phenotype of PATJ depleted cells was associated with the nuclear recruitment of MUC1-C, YAP/TAZ, b-catenin and ZEB1. Our results suggest thatPATJdownregulation 24 hours after IS promotes EndMT, an initial step prior to secondary activation of a pro-angiogenic program. This effect is associated with functional independence suggesting that activation of EndMT shortly after stroke onset is beneficial for stroke recovery.
The effects of thioredoxin peroxidase from Cysticercus cellulosae excretory-secretory antigens on TGF-β signaling pathway and Th17 cells differentiation in Jurkat cells by transcriptomics
Authors: Sun Xiaoqing , Mu Qianqian , Yang Fengjiao , Liu Meichen , Zhou Biying
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Thioredoxin peroxidase (TPx) protein from the excretory-secretory antigens (ESAs) of Cysticercus cellulosae (C. cellulosae) has been shown to regulate the differentiation of host Treg and Th17 cells, resulting in an immunosuppressive response dominated by Treg cells. However, the molecular mechanism by which TPx protein from the ESAs of C. cellulosae regulates the imbalance of host Treg/Th17 cell differentiation has not been reported.
(2) Methods: TPx protein from porcine C. cellulosae ESAs was used to stimulate Jurkat cells activated with PMA and Ionomycin at 0, 24, 48, and 72 hours. Transcriptomic analysis was performed to investigate the signaling pathways associated with Jurkat cells differentiation regulated by TPx protein from C. cellulosae ESAs.
(3) Results: Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) revealed that TPx protein from porcine C. cellulosae ESAs could induce upregulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway and downregulation of Th17 cell differentiation in Jurkat cells.
(4) Conclusion: TPx protein from porcine C. cellulosae ESAs can activate the TGF-β signaling pathway in Jurkat cells, thereby regulating the differentiation of Treg/Th17 cells and leading to an immunosuppressive response dominated by Treg cells, enabling evasion of the host immune attack. This study provides a foundation for further validation of these pathways and further elucidates the molecular mechanisms underlying immune evasion caused by porcine C. cellulosae.
Testability-Driven Development: An Improvement to the TDD Efficiency
Authors: Parsa Saeed , Zakeri-Nasrabadi Morteza , Turhan Burak
Published: August 2023

Test-first development (TFD) is a software development approach involving automated tests before writing the actual code. TFD offers many benefits, such as improving code quality, reducing debugging time, and enabling easier refactoring. However, TFD also poses challenges and limitations, requiring more effort and time to write and maintain test cases, especially for large and complex projects. Refactoring for testability is improving the internal structure of source code to make it easier to test. Refactoring for testability can reduce the cost and complexity of software testing and speed up the test-first life cycle. However, measuring testability is a vital step before refactoring for testability, as it provides a baseline for evaluating the current state of the software and identifying the areas that need improvement. This paper proposes a mathematical model for calculating class testability based on test effectiveness and effort and a machine-learning regression model that predicts testability using source code metrics. It also introduces a testability-driven development (TsDD) method that conducts the TFD process toward developing testable code. TsDD focuses on improving testability and reducing testing costs by measuring testability frequently and refactoring to increase testability without running the program. Our testability prediction model has a mean squared error of 0.0311 and an R2 score of 0.6285. We illustrate the usefulness of TsDD by applying it to 50 Java classes from three open-source projects. TsDD achieves an average of 77.81% improvement in the testability of these classes. Experts’ manual evaluation confirms the potential of TsDD in accelerating the TDD process.
Combined used of long-lasting insectiticidal nets and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis larviciding, a promising integrated approach against malaria transmission in northern Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Tia Jean-Philippe B. , Tchicaya Emile S.F. , Zahouli Julien Z. B. , Ouattara Alassane F. , Vavassori Laura , Assamoi Jean-Baptiste , Small Graham , Koudou Benjamin G.
Published: August 2023

Background The recent reduction in malaria burden in Côte d’Ivoire is largely attributable to use of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). However, this progress is threatened by insecticide resistance and behavioral changes in Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) populations and residual malaria transmission, and complementary tools are required. Thus, this study aimed to assess the efficacy of the combined use of LLINs and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), in comparison with LLINs.Methods This study was conducted in the health district of Korhogo, northern Côte d'Ivoire, within two study arms (LLIN + Bti arm and LLIN-only arm) from March 2019 to February 2020. In the LLIN + Bti arm, Anopheles larval breeding sites were treated every fortnight with Bti in addition to the use of LLINs. Mosquito larvae and adults were sampled and identified morphologically to genus and species using standard methods. An. gambiae s.l. complex members were determined using a polymerase chain reaction technique. Plasmodium infection in An. gambiae s.l. and malaria incidence in local people was also assessed.Results Overall, Anopheles spp. larval density was lower in the LLIN + Bti arm 0.61 [95% CI: 0.41–0.81] larva/dipper (l/d)) compared with the LLIN-only arm 3.97 [95% CI: 3.56–4.38] l/d (OR = 6.50; 95% CI: 5.81–7.29; P < 0.001). The overall biting rate of An. gambiae s.l. was 0.59 [95% CI: 0.43–0.75] biting/person/night in the LLIN + Bti arm against 2.97 [95% CI: 2.02–3.93] biting/person/night in LLIN-only arm (P < 0.001). An. gambiae s.l. was dominated by An. gambiae sensu stricto (s.s.) (95.1%, n = 293), followed by An. coluzzii (4.9%; n = 15). The high human-blood index was 80.5% (n = 389) in study area. EIR was 1.36 infected bites/person/year (ib/p/y) in the LLIN + Bti arm against 47.71 ib/p/y in the LLIN-only arm. Malaria incidence dramatically declined from 40.5‰ (n = 765) to 15‰ (n = 292) in LLIN + Bti arm (P < 0.001).Conclusions The combined use of LLINs with Bti significantly reduced the incidence of malaria. The LLINs and Bti duo could be a promising integrated approach for effective vector control of An. gambiae s.l for elimination of malaria.
Lipid Metabolism related Gene Expression is correlated with Immune-metabolic Microenvironment and Predicts Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Xiong Haofeng , Hou Fei , Zhang Yizhi , Kang Qian , Sun Liying
Published: August 2023

Background & AimsHepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. This study was aimed at exploring the prognosis predictive ability of lipid metabolism related genes (LMRGs) in HCC and constructing a reliable risk model for clinical management.MethodsBioinformatics analysis of transcription data obtained from Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET) and the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database was utilized in this study. COX regression and consensus clustering were performed to identify two molecular subgroups based on LMRGs. Immune infiltrating analysis, KEGG, GSVA, and GO pathway analysis was applied to clarify the underlying mechanisms of LMRGs participated in the prognosis of HCC. We then performed LASSO-COX regression analysis to build the risk model and validate the model in an external HCC cohort from the ICGC database.ResultsWe identified two molecular subgroups with distinct overall survival based on the different expression profiles of LMRGs. The increased immune score and expression of immune checkpoints, altered immune cell subtypes, and dysregulated metabolic pathways were involved in the worse overall survival of the molecular subgroup with higher expression of the majority of LMRGs. The risk model based on four LMRGs including SRD5A3, PPARGC1A, HSD17B12, AKR1B15 and the integrated nomogram established with the four LMRGs and TNM stage performed reliable predictive ability of HCC prognosis both in the train set and validation set.ConclusionLMRG dysregulation is correlated with the immune microenvironment and various metabolic pathways in HCC. The risk model developed based on the expression of LMRGs could act as a potent predictor of HCC prognosis.
Comparison of Adsorption Capacity of Amine Modified Activated Carbon from Stone Apple for CO2 Capture
Authors: Das Dipa
Published: August 2023

Increase in atmospheric Carbon dioxide concentration due to industrial activity of more than a century has led to the problem of global warming, which hints at a catastrophic climatic consequence for the whole world. The reduction in the emissions of greenhouse gases possesses a challenge in addressing the issue of climate change. Adsorption is considered as a competitive solution. This present research focus separation of post combustion capture carbon dioxide from flue gas by adsorption mechanism as it needs less energy and amine modified activated carbon prepared from stone apple can be used as solid adsorbents. Two different amine solution i.e Ethylene Diamine(EDA) and Tetra Ethylene Penta Amine(TEPA) solution were used as impregnating agent for activated carbon with impregnation ratio 0.4 (EDA-AC(0.4) and TEPA-AC(0.4). Further the amine impregnated activated carbons were characterized using various techniques such as Proximate Analysis, Ultimate Analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy(EDS), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy(FTIR), BET surface area analyser, Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-Ray Diffraction(XRD). A remarkable increase in the adsorption capacity was observed and the maximum adsorption (36.05 mg/g) is found in Ethylene diamine impregnated activated carbon having impregnation ratio 0.4(EDA-AC(0.4) at 25°C and 1 atm and break through time of 214 min.
The core symptom in gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: a network analysis
Authors: Wang Xiao-Qing , Zou Yan-Ling , Li Yi , Li Xun , Zhang Zi-Yan , Yang Li-Hua , Gao Juan , Guan Hui Yun , Duan Pei-Bei
Published: August 2023

Background
​During chemotherapy for gastric cancer, patients may experience symptoms associated with both the disease and chemotherapy. There have been limited studies exploring the relationship between these symptoms. Network analysis can identify the core symptoms in the symptom network.
Objective
The purpose of this research was to investigate the core symptoms and contributing factors in gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Methods
A cross-sectional study of convenient samples of patients with gastric cancer undergoing chemotherapy was conducted. A total of 616 gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy were enrolled between January 2021 and November 2022.​ The symptom network and node characteristics were analyzed using network analysis, and the factors affecting the symptom network were investigated using multivariate linear regression analysis.
Results
The findings indicated that 89% of gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy experienced lack of appetite. Taste alteration was the most prominent symptom in the network analysis, with the strongest correlation between taste alteration and lack of appetite in patients. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that gender, history of tobacco use and chemotherapy cycles were the factors affecting taste alteration.
Conclusion
Taste alteration was the core symptom in gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Interventions are likely to be most effective if symptom management focuses on taste alteration. Additionally, lack of appetite should be treated together in a clinical setting to ensure accurate symptom management.
Quantifying the Flooding Regime and Vegetation Zone in Riparian Wetlands
Authors: Lee Hoyong , Kwak Jaewon , Lee Junhyeong , Kim Hung Soo , Kim Soojun
Published: August 2023

Wetlands play an important role in cycling water resources, organic matter, water purification, and ecosystem conservation. Understanding flood regimes is essential for effective wetland management because it significantly influences wetland succession and circulation. This study aims to develop a methodology for quantifying flood regimes of the Jangdan Wetland (Imjin River) and the Binae Wetland (Namhan River). This study analyzed the hydrologic regime of these wetlands using the water level duration curve (LDC) based on the flow duration curve (FDC). Flood regime diagrams describing the inundation characteristics over time, were then constructed using the LDC and the digital elevation models (DEM) of the wetlands. To understand the relationship between vegetation communities and hydrologic regime in the wetland, this study classified nine vegetation zones based on the tolerance of associated plant species to inundation. The study revealed that the Jangdan Wetland were dry primarily on most days but experienced complete inundation during flooding events. In contrast, the Binae Wetlands were found to be frequently inundated, with approximately 40% of the area experiencing regular flooding, while 20% of the higher elevation areas were only inundated once every few years.
Practice Dimension Analysis of Activities in Physical Education Class and Teaching Methods——A Study Based on 56 Award-Winning Lessons
Authors: Xia Xiaohui , Zhu Yixuan , Guo Wenqian , Yang Jiadong
Published: August 2023

Backgrounds: The purpose of this study was to analysis the PE class activities and teachers' teaching methods after the promulgation of the new curriculum standards in China and to provide guidance for curriculum reform practices.
Methods: A total of 56 award-winning PE lesson videos from Gansu province in 2022 were used to study class activities and teaching methods. The SOFIT (The System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time system) was used to encode class activities, and the students’ participation in MVPA (moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity), lesson context, and teacher’s intervention behavior were analyzed. The Likert five-point scale method was used to evaluate the teaching design and implementation that promote students' active learning and practice, including lesson activities, lesson context, teaching methods, exercise load and information technology education means. Differences between lessons from different grade level and school location were compared, and multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between MVPA time and class activities, and teaching methods.
Results: The SOFIT analysis showed that the MVPA time for students was 52.5%, with class management, knowledge explanation, practice for fitness, and skill practice accounting for 8.3%, 32.2%, 27.7%, and 31.9%, respectively. Teacher intervention’s time for inside and outside of the class to promotion of PA accounted for 18.6% and 3.2%, respectively. In terms of teaching methods, the group exercise density was 62.5%, and the scores for student learning activities and sport scenario design were relatively high, at 4.3 and 4.0, respectively. The scores for practice for fitness and information technology education design were relatively low, at 2.9 and 2.3, respectively. There were no significant differences between different groups. Linear regression analysis showed that MVPA time was negatively correlated with class management time and positively correlated with physical fitness exercise time, skill practice time, and group movement density (P<0.05).
Conclusions and Suggestions: In high-quality lessons after the implementation of the new curriculum standards in China, students had a higher level of PA (physical activity). However, there was a phenomenon of excessive time spent on knowledge explanation and insufficient time for practice, highlighting the need for emphasizing intensive explanation and more practice. The design of group movement density in instructional design needs further improvement, as well as the strengthening of information technology education methods and practice for fitness. Measures such as reducing class management time, increasing physical and skill practice time, and enhancing exercise density can improve the effective time for physical exercise in the class.
Objective evaluation of cough and diaphragmatic ultrasound improve the predictive capacity of spontaneous breathing test for extubation success - COBRE-US trial
Authors: Varón-Vega Fabio Andrés , Giraldo-Cadavid Luis F. , Uribe Ana María , Rincon Adriana , Palacios Jhonatan , Crevoiser Stephanie , Tuta-Quintero Eduardo , Ordoñez Lina , Boada Natalia , Rincon Paola , Poveda Marcela , Monedero Pablo
Published: August 2023

Background
Use of clinical tests and ventilator weaning tests in conjunction with the spontaneous breathing test (SBT) can increase the predictive capacity of extubation success. Therefore, we assessed the predictive ability of SBT, cuff leak test, rapid-shallow-breathing-index, cough intensity, and velocity of diaphragmatic contraction (VDC) in successful weaning of mechanically ventilated patients.
Methods
A prospective multicenter observational study from in which consecutive adult patients admitted to 4 intensive care units. The performance of tests in discriminating between success and failure of the weaning process was assessed at different time points using ROC-curve in which the dependent variable was successful extubation.
Results
A total of 367 subjects who received invasive mechanical ventilation, 456 SBT were performed, with a success rate of 76.5%. The ROC curve of this model (0.52xCough)-(0.12xVDC) + 0.3 to predict a successful SBT was 0.63 (95%CI:0.60–0.65), a cut-off point > 0.84 had a sensitivity of 90.1% and a specificity of 25.3%. The ROC-curve of the model (5.7xSBT)+(0.75xCough)–(0.25xVDC)–4.5 to predict a successful extubation was 0.89 (95%CI:0.85–0.94), a cut-off point > 5.97 had a sensitivity of 98.9% and a specificity of 73.2%. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed no significant differences between observed and predicted values (p = 0.92).
Conclusion
Objective measures of cough and diaphragmatic function demonstrate excellent discriminatory ability to predict successful extubation with a cutoff of 5.97. The probability of having a successful extubation could be evaluated using the proposed model.
Surrogate model for CFD based on machine learning
Authors: Rahman Ashfaqur , Pereira Gerald , Kilby Phil , Lahur Paulus
Published: August 2023

The paper presents the results of a data-driven surrogate modelling effort to reproduce the results of a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model. The CFD model considered here simulates a scenario where air containing CO2 flows through a tube. A metal scaffold (that are highly selective in adsorbing Co2 from air) is placed inside the tube that absorbs CO2 from the fluid as it flows through. The CFD model computes two important quantities: (i) the amount of transportation (a measure of CO2 absorbed by the metal scaffold) and (ii) the amount of fluid mixing. Given the shape features of the metal scaffold as input, the CFD model (a) produces a 3D lattice filling part of it with the metal scaffold, (b) uses Lattice-Boltzmann equation to solve the CFD, and (c) compute amount of transportation and fluid mixing. The CFD model is time consuming. To reduce the computation time, we have investigated surrogate models for this CFD based on a machine learning (ML) method. The ML model takes as input the shape features of the metal scaffold and predicts amount of CO2 absorption and fluid mixing. The objective is to come up with a ML model that produces the above quantities with reasonably low error. We investigated several ML models to find their effectiveness to produce reasonably accurate results for predicting the two quantities above. The data for training and testing the ML model was generated from the CFD based on different shape features of the metal scaffold. The underlying objective of the project was to produce an optimal design of the metal scaffold that maximises absorption (of CO2) and fluid mixing. The optimization was done using an evolutionary algorithm (EA). EA starts with a set (population) of random shapes and modifies the shapes over generations based on feedback from CFD. In each generation the CFD computes the absorption and mixing for each of the shapes in the population. The best of the shapes from the population goes through some transformations (crossover and mutation) to generate the population for next generation. The process continues until the optimization converges. The shape features and their fitness (absorption and mixing) of the population from the several generations are combined into one large dataset where the shape features are input, and the fitness values are target. This constitutes the data used for training and testing the ML models. Given a total of n generations, we trained ML models on data up to k–th generation and tested the model on the data from last n–k generations. We present the CFD model, the surrogate models, and some preliminary results in this paper.
Linked bicontinuity of posets of compact ultrapseudometrics
Authors: Nykyforchyn Oleh , Nykorovych Svyatoslav
Published: August 2023

Approximation relations (``way below'' and ``way above'') onpointwise ordered sets of ultrapseudometrics are studied. It isproved that, to obtain continuity and/or dual continuity of theseposets in the sense considered in domain theory, i.e., possibilityto ``safely'' approximate all elements from below and from aboverespectively, one should restrict to compact ultrapseudometrics,not exceeding a fixed one. Such poset is a complete lattice,the partial order on it determines the Lawson topology and the dualLawson topology, which coincide (which is linked bicontinuity), arecompact Hausdorff, and agree with the uniform convergence metric.Necessary and sufficient conditions are proved for ``way below''and ``way above'' relations to hold.
MSC Classification: 06F30 , 54E35
Ecology of extremely female-biased pest insect Hyperlasion breviantenna Sueyoshi et al., 2022 (Diptera: Sciaridae) occurring as outbreaks
Authors: Tagami Yohsuke , Ishihara Yuki , Ohata Yuta , Tsushima Yusuke , Sueyoshi Masahiro
Published: August 2023

Since approximately 2004, outbreaks of the sciarid species Hyperlasion breviantenna Sueyoshi et al., 2022, have occurred at Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan. We attempted to identify the reason for the outbreaks through ecological research. According to the results of our investigation on the annual occurrence and ecological characteristics of this species, it occurs various habitats only in the rainy season and adults only emerge in the morning. These individuals were only females. From the researches of this species at Tajimi-city, Gifu, Japan, both females and males of this species usually emerges at the soil of forest edges rather than inside forests. The areas of forest edges emerged males were limited depend on places. Males and females with intact wings, but only females come to houses or buildings. Small woodlands, gardens, and parks are the areas of origin in urban areas. We show that outbreaks of these insects leads are rarely nuisances because of the many fascinating characteristics of these pests.
A newly identified spliceosomal protein Ahed is essential for homeostasis of the epidermis
Authors: Sano Shigetoshi , Takaishi Mikiro , Ishimoto Tatsushi , Yagyu Ken-ichi , Kataoka Sayo , Kondo Motoki , Morisawa Keiko , Kinjo Sonoko , Ikeo Kazuho , Noma Shohei , Takahashi Chitose , Okazaki Yasushi , Tokunaga Masahiro , Kokubu Chikara , Takeda Junji
Published: August 2023

To identify genes that are essential for cellular and organ functions, we established a homozygous mutant mouse embryonic stem cell bank from which we identified a gene, namedAttenuated Hematopoietic Development (Ahed), that plays an essential role in hematopoiesis. Here we characterize the role ofAhedin skin development by analyzing mice with an epidermis-specific Ahed deficiency (EcKO). Those mice have increased numbers of apoptotic cells in the epidermis from the fetal stage. Thereafter, Ahed-EcKO mice develop skin barrier disruptions over time, which cause lethality soon after birth, showing epidermal abnormalities including the loss of filaggrin and an increase of pro-inflammatory gene expression. Experiments using Tam/ERT2-mediated inducibleAheddeletionin vivoandin vitrorevealed that anAheddeficiency leads to keratinocyte apoptosis, impairs keratinocyte proliferation and promotes dermatitis development. Since we found thatAhedhas a critical role in hematopoiesis as a spliceosomal protein that controls gene splicing of hematopoiesis-related molecules, we further characterized the protein interactions of Ahed with other spliceosomal proteins in HeLa cells, and identified the altered splicing of mRNAs inAhed-deficient keratinocytes. These results suggest thatAhedplays an indispensable role in processing mRNAs during development and in maintaining skin integrity, and more importantly, it contributes to mRNA splicing that is essential for multiple cell lineages.
LncRNA AL133415.1 promotes neuronal apoptosis and its association with Alzheimer's disease through the regulation of miR-125b/vimentin axis
Authors: Cheng Yi , Li Lihua , Zou Ting , Zhang Lei , Ma Long , zhou xiaohui
Published: August 2023

Background
Accumulating studies have identified that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) are novel regulators in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The goal of this study is to examine the impact of LncRNAAL133415.1 on cell viability, neuronal apoptosis, and oxidative stress and to further investigate the molecular mechanisms in AD.
Methods
In our study, we transfected control overexpression, lncRNA AL133415.1 overexpression, control siRNA, and lncRNA AL133415.1 siRNA into an SH-SY5Y-based AD cell model that was established using Aβ42 insult. We then measured cell viability and apoptosis using a CCK-8 assay and apoptosis marker expressions. Oxidative stress was assessed using a reactive oxygen species assay Kit and RT-qPCR was used to make observations. Total proteins were extracted and quantified using Western blot assays. We also determined the expression of Vimentin in each group.
Results
Transcriptome analysis revealed that vimentin (VIM) is a cis-target gene regulated by lncRNA AL133415.1. TargetScan database showed that VIM is a promising candidate target gene for miR-138-5p. In AD cell model, overexpression of lncRNA AL133415.1 inhibited cell viability and promoted cell apoptosis, while silencing lncRNA AL133415.1 had the opposite effect. Similarly, overexpression of lncRNA AL133415.1 inhibited Vimentin expression, while silencing lncRNA AL133415.1 promoted Vimentin expression. Overexpression of miR-138-5p also inhibited Vimentin expression, while inhibition of miR-138-5p expression promoted Vimentin expression. The levels of ROS were reduced in the lncRNA AL133415.1 silence group and increased in the lncRNA AL133415.1 overexpression group. Conversely, SOD levels were increased in the lncRNA AL133415.1 silence group and decreased in the lncRNA AL133415.1 overexpression group.
Conclusion
LncRNA AL133415.1 may interact with miR-138-5p to increase neuron cell death and reduce the expression of Vimentin in AD.
New PBI membranes doped with methylimidazolium triflate protic ionic liquid
Authors: Fadeeva Yuliya , Kuzmin Sergey , Shmukler Liudmila , Safonova Liubov
Published: August 2023

Due to the increasing global demand for sustainable energy sources, fuel cells are being considered as a green alternative to conventional power generation methods. Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) are particularly promising energy sources due to their high energy efficiency and low environmental impact. However, there is an urgent need to develop proton-conducting materials that can operate under low-humidity conditions and at high working temperatures. In this study, new proton conducting membranes were prepared using poly-2,2'-(m-phenylene)-5,5'-bibenzimidazole (PBI) and varying amounts of a protic ionic liquid, methylimidazolium triflate [MeIm/TfO], through a solution casting method. The thermal properties and conductivity of these membranes were investigated. The obtained parameters indicate that PBI membranes doped with either MeIm/TfO or BuIm/TfO, which were previously studied by our group, are of definite interest for further investigation as potential electrolytes for PEMFCs.
Sequential signalling in equity crowdfunding: Testing crowd investors’ signal interpretation ability
Authors: Colombo Massimo G
Published: August 2023

In equity crowdfunding, it is unclear whether unsophisticated inexperienced crowd investors are capable of correctly interpreting ventures’ quality signals, even strong ones like affiliation with venture capital investors. Because of cognitive limitations, crowd investors may consider signals revealing platform’s private information on issuers’ quality to be more informative than ventures’ signals. Our findings based on 550 equity crowdfunding offerings in the U.S. show that the positive effect of affiliation with VCs on the success of equity crowdfunding campaigns is mediated by platforms’ choice of an equity compensation (i.e. their “skin in the game”) but only very partially. We deduce that crowd investors’ cognitive limitations may be less severe than one may believe.
JEL Classification: D26, G24, L26, M13
ALKBH5-mediated m 6 A modification of CDC6 mRNA impairs gastric cancer tumorigenesis and has prognostic significance
Authors: Liang Rui , Chen Xiaoyu , Yu Yi , Yang Yanling , Fan Huining , Chen Zhaoyu , Zhang Jing , Zhu Jinshui
Published: August 2023

Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation and its associated demethylase ALKBH5 participate in pathogenesis and progression of multiple malignancies. The present study aimed to reveal the biological function and clinical significance of ALKBH5 in gastric cancer (GC).
Method: The prognostic significance of ALKBH5 expression was assessed by using tissue microarray, immunohistochemical analyses and TCGA dataset in human GC. The functional role of ALKBH5 in GC tumorigenesis were explored in vitro and in vivo. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq), RNA-seq and MeRIP-PCR were utilized to identify the target genes of ALKBH5. RNA pull-down and RIP assays were conducted to validate the binding of CDC6 with ALKBH5 and YTHDF1.
Results: ALKBH5 was markedly downregulated in GC tissue samples and reduced expression of ALKBH5 correlated with poor prognosis. Multivariate Cox regression analysis unveiled that ALKBH5 expression was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in human patients with GC. Furthermore, ALKBH5 overexpression suppressed GC cell proliferation and cycle progression in vitro and in vivo, whereas knockdown of ALKBH5 harbored the opposite effects. Mechanistically, ALKBH5 abolished m6A modification of CDC6 mRNA, and the m6A reader YTHDF1 could directly recognize and bind to the m6A site on CDC6 mRNA. CDC6 acted as an oncogenic factor and had poor prognosis in GC.
Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that ALKBH5-mediated m6A modification of CDC6 mRNA impairs GC tumorigenesis and has prognostic significance in patients with GC.
Enhancement of lubricant replenishment under limited lubricant supply in rolling bearings
Authors: Liu Chenglong , Guo Feng , Li Xinming , Wong Patrick , Poll Gerhard , Liu Muyuan
Published: August 2023

This paper proposes a stripe-shaped surface pattern, aiming to enhance oil replenishment in rolling bearings that operate in challenging conditions where starved lubrication can result in failure. The pattern can be created through a chemical coating and applied to both sides of the bearing raceway, transforming it into a replenishment-augmented rolling element bearing (RaREB) that exhibits reduced friction. RaREB bearings facilitate better distribution and replenishment of lubricant in the bearing raceway, leading to enhanced anti-friction and extended service life, particularly in situations with limited lubricant supply. Test results confirmed the effectiveness of RaREB bearings in maintaining the desired thickness of the lubricating film and reducing friction torque. Additionally, a droplet transport simulation model was utilized to demonstrate the effect of the stepped wettability on oil replenishment. The proposed design holds practical significance for enhancing bearing performance in extreme operating conditions.
Barriers in Management of Malnutrition During COVID-19: Among Children Aged 6 to 71 Months in Buldhana District of Maharashtra in India
Authors: Ingle Sagar Dhirasrao , Nagdeve Dewaram
Published: August 2023

Background The management of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) in children is crucial to prevent the progression to severe acute malnutrition (SAM). This study aimed to identify the barriers to managing MAM in children aged 6 to 71 months in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra, India.Method The research followed a descriptive phenomenological design and involved six focus group discussions with mothers or caregivers of children aged 6 to 71 months, along with 20 in-depth interviews with nutrition rehabilitation services provider.Result Several themes emerged from the analysis, causes of child malnutrition such as a low child-caring time for the mother, lack of awareness, cultural beliefs, and poor maternal health. Difficulties were faced during identification, such as multiple rounds of child screening, inadequate treatment during screening, nutrition counselling issues, reduced follow-up visits, and effectiveness of services. Maternal-level barriers encompassed food insecurity, lack of food choice, mismanagement of self-grown food grains, and cultural barriers. The study also identified barriers and suggestions to improve the service, including feelings of shame associated with having children with malnutrition and obstacles in managing MAM. The COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on malnutrition management. Providing nutrition counselling to mothers of children with MAM without food supplementation increased the risk of negative outcomes for these children.Conclusion The study revealed that both maternal-level and service provider-level barriers negatively affect the management of malnutrition in study area. The government should prioritize and facilitate the integration of supplementary food into existing MAM management practices.
Direct Salinity Effect on Absorbance and Flourescence of Chernozem Water-Extractable Organic Matter
Authors: Kholodov Vladimir A. , Danchenko Natalia N. , Ziganshina Aliya R. , Yaroslavtseva Nadezhda V. , Semiletov Igor P.
Published: August 2023

Soil-derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) has a significant impact on aquatic ecosystems. Identifying the fluorescence signatures of DOM from different soils in river and sea waters can provide valuable insights into its migration patterns. This makes crucial the assessment of pH, salinity, and other parameters contribution to the variability of DOM fluorescence. Present study investigates the changes of DOM of typical Chernozems under varying salinity using UV-visible absorbance and excitation–emission matrices of fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with parallel factor analysis (EEMs-PARAFAC). Water-extractable organic matter (WEOM) as a proxy for DOM was isolated from soils of two field experiment plots with contrasting land uses: long-term bare fallow (LTBF) and annually mowed steppe (Steppe). The extracts were incubated in the dark with varying NaCl concentrations and examined. Steppe WEOM exhibited high structural and aggregation resistance to salinity changes, while significant changes in optical parameters and loads of PARAFAC components were observed for LTBF WEOM. The remarkable stability of the Steppe WEOM can be attributed to its chemical diversity. Two distinct and sufficiently stable humic-like PARAFAC components have the potential to serve as markers of Chernozem DOM. The findings contribute to the limited existing knowledge on the direct influence of salinity on the transformation of specific soil types DOM.
Fracture phases of the CT specimens printed in PLA according to the raster width
Authors: Aourik Oumaima , Chouaf Abdelkerim , Othmani Mourad
Published: August 2023

This article investigates the impact of raster width on crack propagation resistance in structures manufactured using the FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) additive manufacturing process. This process involves a large number of variables to be controlled, which influence the mechanical properties and quality of the parts produced. During layer-by-layer printing, the filaments making up each layer fuse together on adjacent and overlapping sides. This fusion occurs at the contact surfaces, which depend mainly on the raster's width and the deposited filaments' length. The quality of this fusion plays a crucial role in the resistance to crack propagation, both between filaments and between layers. Therefore, this article aims to examine how raster width affects resistance to crack propagation in FDM structures. In this study, we developed two approaches; one is experimental based on CT (Compact Tension) specimens to assess the fracture toughness of poly-lactic acid (PLA)-based polymers using the theoretical approach of the J integral. To do so, we determined the strength curves (J-∆a) and deduced the JICparameter for different raster widths (l = 0.42 mm, l = 0.56 mm and l = 0.68 mm). To better understand the behavior of contact zones between filaments during fracture, we developed a simplified numerical approach. The numerical results obtained were analyzed and discussed on the basis of observations of the fracture facies of CT specimens.
Validation of reliability, repeatability and consistency of Three-dimensional Choroidal Vascular Index
Authors: Ma Feiyan , Bai Yifan , Duan Jialiang , Liang Yuchen , Shang Qingli
Published: August 2023

PURPOSE
To investigate the reliability, repeatability and consistency of choroidal vascularity index (CVI) measurements provided by an artificial intelligence-based software in normal subjects.
METHODS
One hundred and twenty-five eyes of 125 healthy volunteers were included in this prospective study. The repeatability of the measurements was analyzed based on the in-built ETDRS segmentation with 3D-CVI was obtained automatically on the segmented diagram (CVI1). Ten eyes from this population were selected to study agreement between CVIs obtained from SS-OCT and that from SD-OCT (CVI2) based on the 6*6mm square overlayed over the fundus image analyzed by intraclass correlation coefficient. The influencing factors including age, gender, partition, axial length and spherical equivalent on CVI was further investigated.
RESULTS
Intraclass correlation coefficient between different measurements was 0.934 (95% CI: 0.812–0.956). Intraclass correlation coefficient between centered and CVI1 and CVI2 was 0.887 (95% CI: 0.796–0.938, P value < 0.001). The mean difference between CVI1 and CVI2 was 0.063 ± 0.017. CVI measured with SS-OCTA showed stronger correlations with axial length and age but not correlated with gender.
CONCLUSION
There is good agreement between CVIs obtained from the built-in software that requires less timing in manual quantification. Studies investigating choroidal vascularity can be standardized by the AI-based CVI analyze software.