bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of Fe 3 O 4 /PDA/Ag Nanoparticles and Coupling with SERS for Detection of Pesticide Residue
Authors: Song Xi , Wu Rui , Tian Guanghui
Published: May 2024

Carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl are highly toxic persistent organic pollutant. Prolonged exposure to them may bring a wide variety of disease. For this, a facile and high sensitive approach (surface-enhanced Raman scattering: SERS) with nanocomposite (Fe3O4/PDA/Ag) as substrates was developed for detection of carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl. The core of Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by coprecipitation method, and it was coated with polydopamine (PDA). Ag NPs was obtained by chemical reduction-oxidation. The three-layer structure of magnetic composite nanomaterial with noble metal, namely Fe3O4/PDA/Ag was fabricated via the interaction between Ag and the amino groups of PDA. The prepared Fe3O4/PDA/Ag composites was characterized by XRD, UV-VIS, IR and VSM. The Fe3O4/PDA/Ag as SERS substrates was employed to detect carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl by Raman technology. It was demonstrated that the number of Raman peaks were obvious increased, and intensity for carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl were significantly enhanced due to the substrate of Fe3O4/GO/Ag. A new substrate for SERS was designed with the detection signal significant amplification. New approach for high sensitive, rapid and facile detection of pesticide residues was developed in the study.
Ureaplasma parvum and urealyticum Prevalence in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Reproductive Aged Gambian Women Seeking Primary Health Care: A Case - Control Study
Authors: Bah Haddy , Foday Ceesay , Bojang Kalifa , Banja Fatou , Mboob Kumba Suun , Barrow Ebrima , Kimmitt Patrick.
Published: May 2024

Background
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern, as most of these infections are asymptomatic in women, potentially leading to adverse reproductive health. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of urogenital Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma genitalium, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in reproductive-aged Gambian women attending Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), the main referral hospital for The Gambia.
Method
A total of 232 reproductive women aged 20–49 years were recruited in a case‒control study (115 symptomatic and 117 asymptomatic). Both vaginal and endocervical swabs were collected. Nucleic acid was extracted and tested by real-time PCR for Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma genitalium, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Microbiological analysis was carried out for Trichomonas vaginalis and Neisseria gonorrhoea. A questionnaire was administered to assess risk factors that may be associated with Ureaplasma infection.
Results
The overall prevalence of Ureaplasma was 46%. The distribution in symptomatic and asymptomatic participants was as follows: Ureaplasma parvum (38% symptomatic, 52% asymptomatic); Ureaplasma urealyticum (4% symptomatic, 14% asymptomatic); Neisseria gonorrhoeae (6% symptomatic, 4% asymptomatic); and Trichomonas vaginalis (4% symptomatic, 3% asymptomatic). Eighty percent of participants’ partners had never used a condom during sexual intercourse. Early sexual debut and new sexual partners were found to be statistically associated with Ureaplasma infection (p ≤ 0.05).
Conclusion
This is the first study to highlight the burden of Ureaplasma infection in Gambian women of reproductive age. The high prevalence observed in this pilot study requires further investigation to determine its association with adverse reproductive outcomes and the need for enhanced surveillance for Ureaplasma in countries where there is limited data on prevalence.
The Muscular-Deep Fascia System: New Findings on the Anatomy of the Structure Between the Eyebrow and the Superior Orbital Margin
Authors: Yin Shilu , Wang Guanhuier , Zhao Zhenmin , Zhang Weiguang
Published: May 2024

There is a lack of study on the muscular-deep fascia system which connects the upper eyelid, brow, and glabella. This study aimed to explore the fine anatomy of the muscular-deep fascia system at the region between the eyebrow and the superior orbital margin. We included eight formalin–phenol-embalmed cadavers (16 sides of specimens), and categorized them for anatomical dissection and histological sections. Five cadavers (10 sides) were dissected for gross anatomical observation, whereas all soft tissues of the other three cadavers (6 sides) were dissected for tissue sectioning and histological analysis. Three tissue blocks and 16 strips in each block were trimmed, numbered, and sliced in these specimens. Hematoxylin–Eosin and Masson’s Trichrome staining were undertaken respectively. In the region between the eyebrow and the superior orbital margin, the frontalis was covered by the orbicularis oculi. Fibers of the frontalis muscle penetrated into the orbicularis oculi muscle bundles, and crosslinked around the eyebrow level. Both the frontalis and the orbicularis oculi were attached to the thickened multilayered deep fascia in this region, which could be regarded as the muscular-deep fascia system. The muscular-deep fascia system connects the frontalis deep fascia and deep forehead compartments down to the orbicularis-supporting ligament. The precise anatomy of the muscular-deep fascia system at the region between the eyebrow and the superior orbital margin may provide valuable reference for soft-tissue fixation and suspension in facial surgery.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Extract Against Escherichia Coli and Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Uthman Abdulgafar Ishola , Obafunmi Tonidunni I. , Shitu Sabiu , Bello Nabeela Umar
Published: May 2024

Background
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has long been recognized for its therapeutic properties and cultural significance in traditional medicine. This study investigates the antibacterial potential of Curcuma longa extract against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, aiming to contribute to the exploration of alternative or supplementary treatments to combat drug-resistant pathogens.
Results
Phytochemical analysis of the Curcuma longa extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, saponin, carbohydrate, and anthraquinones. The extract exhibited varying degrees of antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus isolates, with observed zones of inhibition ranging from 10 ± 0.5 to 25 ± 0.5mm. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined at 25mg/ml and 100mg/ml, respectively. The methanol extract of Curcuma longa demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, particularly at higher concentrations.
Conclusions
This study provides empirical evidence supporting the traditional use of turmeric as a potential alternative to conventional antibiotics. The observed antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus suggests the potential therapeutic value of Curcuma longa in combating bacterial infections. These findings underscore the importance of further research into the pharmacological effects of natural remedies and promote their utilization as supplementary or alternative medicine, potentially addressing challenges associated with conventional medications such as high costs, side effects, and drug resistance.
Exploring the distribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms across human exons and introns
Authors: Fraszczak Magdalena , Liu Jakub , Mielczarek Magda , Dobosz Paula , Szyda Joanna
Published: May 2024

Among all types of mutations, single nucleotide polymorphisms are the most common type of genomic variation. In our study, we explored the counts of single nucleotide polymorphisms in consecutive exons and introns of the human genome based on the data set of 1,222 individuals of Polish origin that comprises 41,836,187 polymorphisms. Chromosomes 1 and 22 were considered to be representatives of two markedly different DNA molecules, since HSA01 represents the longest chromosome and HSA22 is one of the shortest chromosomes. Therefore, the SNP count analysis was based on 1,705,575 variants located within 6,490 genes. The distribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms among introns and exons appeared to be not only highly nonuniform but also exhibited a very consistent pattern. On HSA01, a significant excess of SNPs was observed in the first and last exons, with the first exons always containing fewer SNPs than in the last. The same pattern was also true for HSA22, except for genes represented by 7 and 8 exons. Pairwise comparisons of SNP count between introns also yielded a very consistent pattern. In HSA01 significantly higher numbers of SNPs were harboured by the first intron. On HSA22 the same pattern was observed, although it was less consistent. This observation reflects the distinct functional role of these genomic units.
Remyelinating potential of Olea Europaea and Arachis Hypogaea on Experimental autoimmune Encephalomyelitic model of Multiple Sclerosis by downregulating the pro-inflammatory cytokines
Authors: zahid sara , Khawaja Ali Imran , Chinnam Sampath , Ahmad Zaheer , Riaz Humayun , Yallur Basappa C , Malik Arif , Hassan Khawaja Danial , Khalid Bushra , Qaddoos Abdul , Ahmad Waqas , Zaib Sumera
Published: May 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, autoimmune demyelinating central nervous system (CNS) disease. A neuroprotection model is suggested to find novel treatment approaches with oxidative markers interplay in MS. Current study is aimed to find the role of specific neuroinflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers involved in the progression of EAE-murine-model of MS and to evaluate the neuromodulatory effects of Olea Europaea (Olive oil), and Arachis Hypogaea (peanut oil). Olea Europaea was used for the environmentally friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Marked suppression of leukocyte counts and oxidative-stress markers such as Superoxide dismutase (SOD) (0.66IU/ml), catalase (CAT), (3.89 and 5.56µmol/ml) and Glutathione (GSH) (6.88 µmol/ml) in the cocktail of Olive and Peanut oil extract treated group's serum was noticed. The expression level of interleukin -6 (IL-6) (9.63 ± 0.43) and Tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) was significantly (P≤0.001) increased (7.89±0.24) in the diseased rat group treated with LPS as compared with the control group (1.000±0.00). Olive oil and peanut oil extracts alleviated expression levels of IL-6, TNF-α, INF-α, GAPDH, β-actin and MMP-8. Similarly, standard drµg Nimodipine, Interferon-α, and Dimethyl fumarate also ameliorated pro-inflammatory cytokine production. As per findings, a significant neuroprotective effect with remyelinated axonal-terminal and oligodendrocytes migration, minimal number of lymphocytic infiltrations, and necrosis of Purkinje-cells was observed after treatment with a cocktail of olive and peanut oils by upregulation of Nitric oxide (NO), Matrix metalloprotease-8 (MMP-8) and 8-hydroxy guanosine (8-OHdG) expression levels.
Co-existence of Mungbean yellow mosaic India virus with Cowpea mild mottle virus on soybean (Glycine max.) in North-East India
Authors: Borah Munmi , Routhu Gowtham Kumar , Deb Bishakha , Katyayani Kanuri Komala Siva , Bhamra Gurpreet Kaur , Saikia Anindita , Nath Palash Deb
Published: May 2024

Soybean (Glycine max. L.) plants with virus-like systemic mosaic and mottling symptoms were observed in both experimental and commercial fields in Assam State, India. Begomo and Carlaviruses are the most destructive viruses infecting legume crops in India. A diagnostic survey was carried out to assess the prevalence of major viruses in soybean growing tracts of Assam and North-East India. Infected plants showing severe mosaic, mottling, and crinkling of leaves were collected. Molecular indexing was performed using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with a coat protein gene-specific primer of Begomovirus (Mungbean yellow mosaic virus) and a Carlavirus degenerate primer corresponding to the coat protein gene. Apparently, amplifications were seen for both Begomovirus and Carlavirus infections alone and in combination. According to the sequence analysis, the combination infections in soybean are caused by the Mungbean yellow mosaic virus (MYMIV) and the Cowpea mild mottle virus (CPMMV). This is the first molecular report of the co-existence of the Mungbean yellow mosaic India virus strain and the Cowpea mild mottle Carlavirus on soybean in N.E. India and India.
Effects of extrusion parameters in the printing stability: evaluation in an innovative 3D printer containing a vertical co-rotating twin screw extrusion unit
Authors: Silva Dávila Moreira Lopes , Barbosa Patrícia Alves , Chinelatto Marcelo Aparecido , Silveira Zilda de Castro
Published: May 2024

The study of die swell phenomenon in Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (MEX-AM) technologies holds great importance in order to maintain the control over the extruded beads diameter to ensure surface quality, dimensional precision, adhesion between adjacent beads (intra and inter), as well mechanical properties on manufactured parts. This paper addresses an experimental procedure to analyze the influence of extrusion parameters on the die swell phenomenon on extruded beads printed from a 3D customized equipment containing a customized co-rotating vertical twin-screw extrusion unit (Co-TSE AM). In this context, an analytical estimation of shear rate in the screws and die was performed; a design of experiments (DOE) was conducted to evaluate the influence of factors as of screw rotational speed (40 rpm and 80 rpm), output rate (20 g/h and 40 g/h), and nozzle diameter (0.4 mm and 0.6 mm) on the die swell ratio (DSR); and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to assess the morphology in the cross-sectional area of the beads, as well as qualitative aspects of surface texture. Additionally, print line experiments were conducted to examine the influence of platform speed and standoff distance on bead width and bead height. It was observed that the DSR average varied between 1.28 and 1.67. Output rate and nozzle diameter are the parameters that most strongly influence DSR. Screw rotational speed has not significant influence on the thermomechanical environment that influences material swelling. The bead width and bead height are differently influenced by the standoff distance and print platform speed.
Prevalence of Inadequate HIV Knowledge and Its Associated Factors among the Malaysian General Population: Findings from The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2020
Authors: Adnan Muhammad Azri Adam , Sahril Norhafizah , Razak Mohamad Aznuddin Abd , Shamsudin Norliza , Hasim Mohd Hazrin , Mutalip Mohd Hatta Abdul
Published: May 2024

Background
Inadequate knowledge of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is underscored as a key factor contributing to the HIV epidemic. Nonetheless, current data on HIV knowledge in Malaysia are still scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of inadequate HIV knowledge and its associated factors among the general Malaysian population.
Method
The study utilized data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2020, a nationwide cross-sectional survey involving respondents aged 13 years and above. HIV knowledge was assessed using the UNGASS indicators questionnaire, which comprises five questions on HIV prevention and transmission. The data were collected using the computer assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) method. Respondents who did not correctly answer all five questions were considered to have inadequate knowledge about HIV. Descriptive analysis and complex sample logistic regression were performed using SPSS version 28.0.
Results
The study revealed an overall prevalence of inadequate HIV knowledge of 77.4%, with adolescents aged 13-19 having the highest prevalence of 86.1%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that respondents with no formal education (aOR 4.34, 95% CI: 0.65, 29.08) had four times the risk of lacking HIV knowledge. Non-Malaysian respondents (aOR 1.96, 95% CI: 0.78, 4.90) and respondents who worked as unpaid workers, homemakers or caregivers (aOR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.05, 2,82) were also significantly more likely to have inadequate HIV knowledge.
Conclusion
Three out of four Malaysians were found to lack HIV knowledge. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted HIV prevention initiatives and educational programs aimed at enhancing knowledge and dispelling misconceptions about HIV.
In ovo betaine and heat acclimation affects hatching results, growth performance and immunity of the broilers under cyclic heat stress
Authors: Akşit Mustafa , Helva İhsan Bülent , Yardım Zeynep , Yalçın Servet
Published: May 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of in ovo betaine (IOB) and thermal manipulation during incubation on growth performance, and some immune parameters of broilers under cyclic heat stress (CHS). Eggs were incubated under control (CL) and heat acclimation (HA) conditions. Betaine was injected into chicken embryos at day 11 of incubation (E11). Chicks were raised under standard management conditions until 21 d of age. From 21 to 42 d of age, half of the birds from each incubation treatment (IT) were exposed to CHS. The others were kept at 24°C (OPT). Betain and HA did not affect embryonic mortalities, hatchability, chick weight, and relative weights of digestive organs of chicks. Thymus and spleen weights of chicks increased with betain. The serum IgG was higher in HA + IOB-treated chicks. Blood cholesterol was not influenced by treatments. At 7 and 21 d, the body weights (BW) of chicks from IOB had heavier. At 28 and 35 d, there were significant interaction between IT × rearing temperature (RT) and IOB × RT on BW. Betain increased feed consumption (FC) and improved feed conversion (FCR) from 0 to 21 d. At 28 d, IT × RT interaction on FC was significant. At 35 d, there were significant interactions among IT × IOB × RT on FC and FCR. Betain slightly improved FCR from 0 to 42 d. These results indicated that HA and IOB positively affected thymus weight and IgG level of day-old chicks and enhanced broiler performance of birds under CHS.
23-Year Review of Spheno-Orbital Meningioma: Clinical, Radiological, and Pathological Insights from 100 Cases
Authors: Liu Yanchen , Ma Mingshen , Li Xin , Hei Yan , Li Yueyue , Ma Rui , Wang Xiaoyi , Wang Qi , Yang Xinji , Wu Wei
Published: May 2024

Background: Spheno-orbital meningioma (SOM) represents a unique variant of sphenoid wing meningiomas, distinguished by its propensity for bone infiltration and cranio-orbital involvement. SOM exhibits a considerable incidence of misdiagnosis and recurrence.
Purposes: To elucidate the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics of SOM.
Methods: Review of electronic medical records, histopathology, radiological images and follow-up information of 100 SOM patients.
Results: Of the 100 patients (28 males, 72 females) with SOM, mean age was 46.8±12.6 years and prevalent symptoms were proptosis (99%). All the CT scans showed hyperostosis with 89.3% of the hyperostosis having an irregular edge. In MRI scans, dural tail sign was observed across all patients and the cranio-orbital tumors often penetrated temporal muscle (74.1%), extraocular muscle (74.1%) and lacrimal gland (63%). All the 100 patients underwent surgical intervention, and among them, 62 individuals received postoperative radiotherapy. Grade I resections had a lower recurrence rate(16.7%), which further decreased with the addition of radiotherapy(13.9%). In contrast, all patients with grade II or higher grade resections without radiotherapy experienced recurrence, indicating a higher risk associated with less complete tumor removal. The pathological examination revealed that intraorbital sections exhibited comparable tumor density to intraorbital SOM tumors, along with increased fibrous density but decreased vascular distribution.
Conclusions: Radiological characteristics of SOM included cranio-orbital tumors, hyperostosis of the sphenoid wing with an irregular edge, and dural tail sign. Combination of gross total resection and adjuvant radiotherapy was recommended to minimize recurrence rate. Intracranial SOM tumors tended to be softer and more bleed-prone than intraorbital sections, necessitating surgical precision.
Characteristics and outcomes of in-hospital patients with Covid-19 and history of tuberculosis: A matched Case-Control from the Brazilian Covid-19 Registry
Authors: Carvalho Rafael Lima Rodrigues de Carvalho , Pereira Daniella Nunes , Chagas Victor Schulthais , Augusto Valéria Maria , Costa Felício Roberto , Nascimento Guilherme Fagundes , Ruschel Karen Brasil , Moreira Leila Beltrami , Carneiro Marcelo , Junior Milton Henriques Guimarães , Costa Mônica Aparecida , Bonardi Naiara Patricia Fagundes , Oliveira Neimy Ramos , Aguiar Rúbia Laura Oliveira , Costa Raissa Melo , Marcolino Milena Soriano
Published: May 2024

Background:
The Covid-19 pandemic caused a negative impact on other infectious diseases control, prevention, and treatment. Consequently, low and middle-income countries suffer from other endemic diseases, such as tuberculosis. This study was designed to compare Covid-19 manifestations and outcomes between patients with previously treated tuberculosis and controls without this condition.
Methods:
We performed a matched case-control study drawn from the Brazilian Covid-19 Registry data, including in-hospital patients aged 18 and over with laboratory-confirmed Covid-19 from March 1, 2020 to March 31, 2022. Cases were patients with a past history of tuberculosis. Controls were Covid-19 patients without tuberculosis history. Patients were matched by hospital, sex, presence of HIV and number of comorbidities, with a 1:4 ratio.
Results:
From 13,636 patients with laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of Covid-19 enrolled in this study, 80 had a history of tuberculosis. Statistical differences in history of chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (15% vs 3.2%), psychiatric disease (10% vs 3.5%,), chronic kidney disease (11.2% vs 2.8%) and solid-organ transplantation; (5% vs 0.9%, p<0.05 for all) were higher in patients with a past history of tuberculosis. Prior use of inhalatory medications (5% vs 0.6%,), oral corticoids (8.8% vs 1.9%), immunosuppressants (8.8% vs 1.9%,) and the use of illicit drugs were more common in the case group (6.2% vs 0.3% p<0.05for all). There were no significant differences in in-hospital mortality, mechanical ventilation, need for dialysis and ICU admission.
Conclusions:
Patients with a history of tuberculosis infection presented a higher frequency of use of illicit drugs, chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, psychiatric disease, chronic kidney disease, solid-organ transplantation, prior use of inhalatory medications, oral corticoids, and immunosuppressants. The outcomes were similar between cases and controls.
RNA-Seq reveals transcriptome changes to heat stress in the breast muscle of adult female chickens
Authors: Wu Pengfei , Xia Shuli , Yu Haitao , Zhao Xianghua , Zhang Genxi , Wang Kang
Published: May 2024

Background
Heat stress has caused significant impacts on the poultry industry globally. Tianjin-monkey Chicken (TM) is a local naked neck chicken genetic resource in China, characterized by its heat stress resistance due to a low feather coverage.
Results
We conducted heat stress stimulation tests on TM and a normal feathered chicken (Jingfen No. 6 Layer, JF), and the breast muscle tissues were collected for transcriptome sequencing. A total of 157 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 1435 DEGs were respectively obtained from the comparisons of JFN-vs-JFT and TMN-vs-TMT. GO enrichment analysis found that biological process (BP) terms including phospholipid homeostasis, regulation of aggrephagy, positive regulation of aggrephagy, and negative regulation of lipase activity may be closely related to heat stress resistance in JF chickens. While catabolism-related BP terms were mainly enriched for DEGs of TM, such as catabolic process, protein catabolic process and cellular catabolic process. KEGG pathway analysis showed that the MAPK signaling pathway was enriched both in TM and JF with high connectivity. In addition, some pathways with higher connectivity (Metabolic pathways, FoxO signaling pathway, TGF-beta signaling pathway and AMPK signaling pathway) may be closely associated with resistance to heat stress in JF. In Tianjin-monkey Chicken, we also identified several pathways potentially involved in heat stress regulation, including Ubiquitin mediated proteolysis, Autophagy-animal and Regulation of actin cytoskeleton. Protein-Protein Interaction Networks (PPI) for the 24 co-differentially expressed genes revealed four key genes (Klf9, Asb2, Tmem164 and Arrdc2) associated with heat stress both in JF and TM.
Conclusions
Our findings will enrich the research on heat stress resistance in chicken skeletal muscle, while also providing a theoretical basis for the genetic improvement of heat stress resistance in chickens.
Skin Ultrastructural Analysis Reveals a Lack of Iridophores in Adult Individuals of Differently-Colored Species of Galápagos Iguanas
Authors: Scimeca Manuel , Bonfiglio Rita , Colosimo Giuliano , Candi Eleonora , Gerber Glenn P. , Lewbart Gregory A. , Mauriello Alessandro , Melino Gerry , Christian Sevilla , Yufang Shi , Ying Wang , Gentile Gabriele
Published: May 2024

Critically Endangered Galápagos pink land iguanas (Conolophus marthae) are one of the rarest species of iguana, found exclusively on Isabela Island, in the Galápagos. A previous histological study provided an explanation of the unique pink color of adult C. marthae. Still, it also raised a question related to the recent discovery that C. marthae hatchlings are not pink upon emergence. Like hatchlings of C. subcristatus, another Galápagos iguana species, they are maculated, but contrary to C. subcristatus, C. marthae hatchlings exhibit a green color pattern. Generally, greenish, and bluish colors in reptiles are primarily due to an interaction between different types of chromatophores in different skin layers. Iridophores are particularly important among chromophores, as they contain guanine nanocrystals capable of reflecting and diffracting light. Green color emerges when the mostly diffracted blue wavelength interferes with carotenoids in xanthophores. In a multiapproach analysis, we investigated the histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical features of differently-colored skin areas in three species of Galápagos iguanas. We tested for the presence of different types of chromatophores and described characteristics of stratus corneum, stratus germinativum and stratum laxum in the different species. Results demonstrated the absence of iridophores in the skin of adults of the three species, regardless of color, and the presence of stratified epithelium in the stratum germinativum of C. marthae non-black-colored skin. This research furthers interest in the evolutionary significance of pink coloration in C. marthae. The study also calls for additional research to demonstrate the presence of iridophores in pink iguana hatchlings and document possible ontogenetic changes that may lead to the lack of iridophores in adults. An investigation that could take advantage of genome mapping and gene expression along a developmental gradient would be greatly beneficial for advancing the understanding of the genomic basis of pink iguanas and, in general, reptile coloration.
Identification of candidate genes and genomic prediction of soybean fatty acid components in two soybean populations
Authors: Wang Fengmin , Zhao Tiantian , Feng Yan , Ji Zengfa , Zhao Qingsong , Meng Qingmin , Liu Bingqiang , Liu Luping , Chen Qiang , Qi Jin , Zhu Zhengge , Yang Chunyan , Qin Jun
Published: May 2024

Soybean, a source of plant-derived lipids, contains an array of fatty acids essential for health. A comprehensive understanding of the fatty acid profiles in soybean is crucial for enhancing cultivars and augmenting their qualitative attributes. Here, 180 F10 RILs, derived from the cross-breeding of ‘Jidou 12’ and ‘Y9’, were used as primary experimental subjects. Concurrently, a GWAS was conducted on 290 samples from a natural population to scrutinize the five fatty acid components for three consecutive years. The QTL analysis elucidated 23 stable QTLs intricately associated with the five fatty acid components, exhibiting phenotypic contribution rates ranging from 2.78% to 25.37%. In addition, GWAS of the natural population unveiled 102 significant loci associated with these fatty acid components. The haplotype analysis of the colocalized loci revealed that Glyma.06G221400 on chromosome 6 exhibited a significant correlation with stearic acid content, with Hap1 showing a markedly elevated stearic acid level compared with Hap2 and Hap3. Similarly, Glyma.12G075100 on chromosome 12 was significantly associated with the contents of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids, suggesting its involvement in fatty acid biosynthesis. Furthermore, genomic selection (GS) for fatty acid components was conducted using ridge regression best linear unbiased prediction based on both random SNPs and SNPs significantly associated with fatty acid components identified by GWAS. GS accuracy was contingent upon the SNP set used. Notably, GS efficiency was enhanced when using SNPs derived from QTL mapping analysis and GWAS compared with random SNPs, and reached a plateau when the number of SNP markers exceeded 3,000.
Genome wide identification of BjSWEET gene family and drought response analysis of BjSWEET12 and BjSWEET17 genes in Brassica juncea
Authors: Heng Shuangping , He Jingjuan , Zhu Xinyu , Cai Jiayu , Fu Mengke , Zhang Shaoheng , Zeng Wei , Xing Feng , Mao Guangzhi
Published: May 2024

Background
SWEET (Sugar Will Eventually be Exported Transporter) gene family is a unique type of sugar transporter, that plays a vital role in metabolic regulation, growth, development, and stress response in multiple species. This study aimed to systematically identify the SWEET gene family members and detect the regulation of gene expression and potential roles of the SWEET gene family in Brassica juncea.
Results
A total of 66 BjSWEET genes distributed across 17 chromosomes, were identified, and the gene structure and motifs were relatively conserved, with all members containing the MtN3/saliva domain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the SWEET gene family could be classified into four subfamilies (Clades I, II, III, and IV). Collinearity analysis showed that there were 118 pairs of segment duplicates, indicating that some BjSWEET genes were probably obtained by segmental duplication. The promoter region of the BjSWEET genes contained a large number of plant hormone-related response elements, stress-related response elements, growth and development elements, and light-responsive regulatory elements. Furthermore, analysis of the expression profiles revealed that the expression levels of the BjSWEET genes differed among the eight different tissues. qRT-PCR analysis of six selected BjSWEET genes revealed that the expression levels of BjSWEET17.2、BjSWEET17.4、BjSWEET12.2 and BjSWEET12.3 were significantly up-regulated under drought treatment, suggesting that these genes may respond to drought stress in Brassica juncea.
Conclusion
This study systematically identified and analyzed the SWEET gene family members in B. juncea for the first time, which lays the foundation for further research on the molecular mechanisms of drought resistance in B. juncea and provides theoretical guidance for the application of these genes in other species.
Connecting human wellbeing, urban trees, and greenspace in Singapore: Alternative novel approaches.
Authors: Edwards Peter , Yean Seanglidet , Goh Yun Si , Simcock Robyn , Lee Bu Sung (Francis) , Zhou Jiazu , Ping Heng Zheng
Published: May 2024

There is growing recognition that urban trees play a vital role in human wellbeing. Singapore, as a “City in a Garden”, provides an interesting case study to examine urban trees and sound attenuation and mobility. Using innovative modelling and spatial data, we examined the placement of trees and the effects of their canopies on noise levels in high rise buildings. We found that tree canopies and multiple layers of vegetation deliver between 1 and 3 db of attenuation. This vegetation also improved shading. Mobility modelling shows that Singaporeans fondness for greenspace and trees continues. Top reasons for park visits includ nature reserves, neighbourhood parks and tourist attractions. Our integration of remote sensing, ecology, and social science is of critical importance in more fully understanding the interconnection and integration of urban greenspace, trees and wellbeing. These insights can enhance decision-making processes, underscoring the value of holistic approaches to sustainable urban development.
Evaluation of choroidal thickness in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Niyousha Mohammadreza , Razmaray Hadis , Mohammadi Fateme , Hassanpoor Narges
Published: May 2024

We aimed to evaluate choroidal thickness with optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Twenty-five patients diagnosed with grade 2 NAFLD between the ages of 20 and 40 along with 20 age and sex-matched healthy controls were recruited. After full ophthalmological examination, choroidal thickness (CT) at fovea, nasal 500, nasal 1000, temporal 500 and temporal 1000-micron distances was obtained for both eyes using enhanced depth imaging (EDI)-OCT.
Mean ages of NAFLD patients and healthy controls were 34.25±2.00 and 33.41±2.00 respectively. Statistical analysis showed that in the measurements taken from 1000-micron nasal to the left fovea, CT was 320.25±36.16 μm in NAFLD group and 298.05±36.90 μm in healthy group which showed a significant difference between two groups (p=0.046). No other measurements were statistically significant between groups (p > 0.05 for all measurements).
In concussion, Choroidal thickness was not affected in grade 2 NAFLD.
Validation and Assessment of Patients' and Their Caregivers' Attitude Toward Medications Deprescribing in Qatar: A Cross-sectional study of Home Health Care Services in Qatar
Authors: Mohamed Asmaa Abdelaziz , Yakti Ola , Mubarak Essa , Ahmed Afif , Hussain Ammar Ali , Hail Moza Sulaiman H Al , Mahamoud Ibrahim , Chandra Prem
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Polypharmacy remains a pressing concern among the elderly population, often leading to adverse drug reactions (ADRs), emergency department (ED) visits, and hospital admissions. Studies have underscored polypharmacy as a robust predictor of potentially inappropriate medication use and associated poor clinical outcomes in individuals aged 65 and older. Despite the decline in medical treatment effectiveness with aging, patients and caregivers often express reluctance to discontinue regular medications, necessitating a deeper understanding of their perceptions and beliefs regarding deprescribing.
Methods: This study aimed to assess the attitudes and perceptions of patients and their caregivers toward deprescribing of medications in Qatar. The first phase involved translating and validating the caregivers' version of the revised Patients’ Attitudes Toward Deprescribing (rPATD) tool. Subsequently, a prospective cross-sectional study was conducted, utilizing validated self-administered questionnaires in both English and Arabic.
Results: a significant proportion of both patients and caregivers perceived their medication burden as inconvenient and burdensome. While satisfaction with current medications was generally high, a notable willingness to discontinue medications under physician recommendation was observed. Moreover, participants expressed a strong desire to be involved in deprescribing decision-making processes, highlighting a culture of person-centered care. Despite this, concerns regarding adverse events, medication efficacy, and the necessity of medications persisted among respondents.
Conclusion:this study provides insights into the attitudes and perceptions surrounding deprescribing among elderly patients and their caregivers in Qatar, emphasizing the importance of tailored deprescribing strategies and shared decision-making in clinical practice.
Systemic cytokines related to cognitive function 6-9 months and 12-15 months after SARS- CoV-2 infection
Authors: Nuber-Champier Anthony , Breville Gautier , Voruz Philippe , de Alcântara Isabele Jacot , Cionca Alexandre , Allali Gilles , Lalive Patrice H , Benzakour Lamyae , Lövblad Karl-Olof , Braillard Olivia , Nehme Mayssam , Coen Matteo , Serratrice Jacques , Reny Jean-Luc , Pugin Jérôme , Guessous Idris , Landis Basil N , Assal Frédéric , Péron Julie Anne
Published: May 2024

Background.
Cognitive symptoms persisting beyond the acute phase of COVID-19 infection are commonly described for up to 1 year after infection. The relationship between cognitive performance, in particular episodic memory processes observed chronically after infection, and cytokine levels in the acute phase of COVID-19 has not yet been identified in humans.
Aim.
Determine whether the levels of cytokines IL1β, IL-6 and TNFα secreted in the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection are associated and predict verbal and visuospatial episodic memory performance in humans 6 to 9 months and 12 to 15 months post-infection.
Method.
The associations and predictive value of the concentration of cytokines measured in acute phase (IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα) from plasma samples of N = 33 hospitalised COVID-19 patients (mean age 61 years, 39–78, 65% in intensive care) in relation to their verbal and visuospatial episodic memory performance measured at 6–9 months and 12–15 months post-infection were analyzed. To do this, we used Spearman correlations and generalised linear mixed models.
Results.
IL-1β levels were associated with verbal episodic memory total recall scores 6–9 months post-infection. At 12–15 months post-infection IL-1β predicted verbal episodic memory scores and IL-6 predicted visuo-perceptive process.
Conclusion.
This study demonstrated that the severity of inflammatory reaction at acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection predicts verbal episodic memory performance in the long-term post-infection.
A Wireless Continuous Monitoring System for Vital Signs
Authors: Zhang Lei , Su Cheng , Wang Yongkang , Wei Shiyu , Liu Chang , Wan Yong
Published: May 2024

Continuous vital sign monitoring is a widely used clinical diagnostic and treatment method. Traditional vital sign monitoring methods often confine the patient's mobility and pose a higher risk of infection. Some studies have investigated wireless monitoring devices to address these issues, but most of these devices only provide single-module functionality for electrocardiogram, heart rate, blood oxygen, body temperature, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. In this article, we propose a wireless vital sign monitoring system to overcome these limitations. The system comprises of mobile monitoring devices, bedside relay screens, and a multi-scenario vital sign collaboration platform that can collect all the aforementioned physiological indicators. Furthermore, the data collected by these devices were compared and validated against monitoring devices that adhere to China Food and Drug Administration(CFDA) standards. The results demonstrate a close alignment of the data obtained from our system to that obtained from standard equipment, which has also received recognition from medical practitioners. Additionally, by leveraging medical Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) technology, this system can establish a comprehensive vital sign database, paving the way for the development of innovative clinical diagnosis and treatment models in the future.
The application of nomogram model integrating clinical factors and multi-modal MRI radiomics features for predicting cervical lymph nodes metastasis for patients with oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma: a multicenter study
Authors: Liu Sheng , Xiong Jianjun , Zhang Aihua , Su Xingzhou , Zhou Yuhang , Liu Minda , Li Yang , Zhang Zheng , Li Zhenning , Liu Fayu
Published: May 2024

Background
The aim of this study was to build and test the nomogram model integrating clinical factors and multi-modal MRI radiomics features to predict the risk of cervical lymph nodes metastasis (CLNM) in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) patients, and further validate the clinical utility of the model in cT1-T2 subgroup and cN0 subgroup.
Materials and Methods
A total of 326 patients enrolled from 2 centers made up group Ⅰ (including T1-Weighted Images (T1WI) and Fat-suppressed T2-Weighted Images (FS-T2WI)) and group Ⅱ (including T1WI, FS-T2WI and T1-Weighted Contrast Enhanced MRI (CE-MRI)). Patients were divided into training set, internal test set and external test set. Radiomics features from the three MRI sequences and clinical factors were extracted and selected. Radiomics models, clinical models and the combined models (nomogram models) integrating clinical factors and multi-modal MRI radiomics features were constructed respectively in two groups. cN0 subgroup and cT1-T2 subgroup analyses were performed. The performance of the three models was compared.
Results
The combined model integrating clinical factors and multi-modal MRI radiomics features in group Ⅱ had the best performance, with the AUCs of 0.983, 0.944 and 0.770 in the training set, internal test set and external test set. cN0 subgroup and cT1-T2 subgroup analyses confirmed excellent performance of the combined model in group Ⅱ, with the AUCs of 0.975 (0.944–0.992), 0.944 (0.720-1.000) and 0.728 (0.553–0.843) for cN0 subgroup, and the AUCs of 0.959 (0.860-1.000), 0.960 (0.871-1.000) and 0.804 (0.506-1.000) for cT1-T2 subgroup.
Conclusions
The combined model based on clinical factors and multi-modal MRI radiomics features including T1WI, FS-T2WI and CE-MRI can well predict the risk of preoperative CLNM for OTSCC patients.
Seismic Performance of Open Ground StoreyBuilding Coupled with Shear Wall ConsideringInfill Wall Stiffness - A Case Study
Authors: Yousif Mustafa Salsal , Pragalath D.C. Haran
Published: May 2024

An open ground storey (OGS) is a sort of building plan in which the ground floor or lower levels of a structure include open spaces that are not surrounded by walls or columns, such as parking areas, commercial spaces, or lobbies. OGS buildings are known to be at risk of structural damage and collapse during an earthquake due to a lack of stiffness and strength in the open ground storey, which underestimates inter-level drift and force demand in ground storey columns. To compensate, multiple methods of fragility analysis are used to predict the possibility of the building failing at a certain Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA). The current study focuses on the seismic performance of OGS structures coupled with shear walls; the chosen building is designed in accordance with the ACI code. They were employed during dynamic time-history analysis to develop the dis- placement profile of the structure by constructing synthetic earthquakes based on the UBC 1997 response spectrum. For each of the selected OG’S buildings, probabilistic seismic demand models (PSDM) and accompanying fragility curves have been developed for various performance levels. For reference, similar studies are performed on bare frames as well as on infilled frames. It is found from the present study that the infilled walls have a slight influence on the building due to the presence of shear walls as they are known for good resistance to lateral loads nevertheless the infilled walls showed a slight reduction of the building displacement.
Bloodstream infections at a tertiary hospital in The Gambia - A one-year retrospective study
Authors: Rahden Paul , Barrow Ebrima , Bah Haddy , Bittaye Sheikh Omar , Nygren David , Badjan Abdoulie
Published: May 2024

Introduction
Antimicrobial resistance is a significant global health concern, particularly in western Sub-Saharan Africa. This study describes causes of bacteraemia and antimicrobial resistance at a tertiary hospital in The Gambia.
Methods
This retrospective analysis included all blood cultures performed at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul, The Gambia, from September 2022 to August 2023. Blood culture positivity-rates and pathogens were described. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using disk diffusion (CLSI).
Results
In total, 288/645 (45%) blood cultures were positive. A majority were drawn in intensive care units (63%) and in neonatal or paediatric patients (56%). The most common pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus 106/288 (37%), Klebsiella spp. 41/288 (14%), other bacteria within the Enterobacterales order 33/288 (11%), Pseudomonas spp. 22/288 (8%) and Acinetobacter spp. 19/288 (7%). 28/288 (10%) were classified as contaminants. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was seen in 34/58 (59%) tested. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) were seen in 36/40 (90%) of Klebsiella spp. and in 16/28 (57%) of other bacteria within the Enterobacterales order. Acquired antibiotic resistance, beyond wild-type, was reported in 17/20 (85%) of Pseudomonas spp. and 16/19 (84%) of Acinetobacter spp.
Conclusion
Overall, blood culture positivity rates were high, indicating restrictive testing. The presented data highlight blood culture findings primarily among critically ill and neonatal or paediatric patients, with nosocomial infections likely overrepresented. Despite probable selection bias, alarmingly high MRSA- and ESBL-rates were described. These findings highlight the urgent need of accessible microbiological diagnostics, antibiotic stewardships and infection control measures in West Africa. Importantly, generalizability of findings to community-acquired infections remains restricted.
Credit Card Fraud Detection using GAN and Feature Engineering
Authors: C Afeef Ashraf , Ali Ajaz , D Anand , I Shabiya M , Paul Rini T
Published: May 2024

Credit card fraud is a prevalent financial crime thatcauses substantial losses to individuals and financial institutions.Traditional fraud detection methods often rely on rule-basedsystems or supervised machine learning algorithms, which maynot be effective in detecting novel or evolving fraudulent patterns.This project proposes a novel approach for credit card frauddetection using a generative adversarial network (GAN) togenerate synthetic fraudulent transactions, feature engineeringtechniques to extract relevant features from the transactiondata, and anomaly detection methods to identify fraudulenttransactions based on their deviation from normal patterns. Theproposed approach involves three main phases: data prepara-tion and feature engineering, GAN-based data balancing, andanomaly detection. Experimental results demonstrate that theproposed approach outperforms traditional fraud detection meth-ods, achieving higher accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score inidentifying fraudulent transactions. Additionally, the approach ismore robust to changes in the underlying data distribution andcan effectively detect novel or evolving fraudulent patterns.