bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is associated with suppression of the B cell-centered immune landscape in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Rupp Luise , Dietsche Ina , Kießler Maximilian , Sommer Ulrich , Muckenhuber Alexander , Steiger Katja , van Eijck Casper W. F. , Richter Leonard , Istvanffy Rouzanna , Jäger Carsten , Friess Helmut , van Eijck Casper H. J. , Demir Ihsan Ekin , Reyes Carmen Mota , Schmitz Marc
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is typically diagnosed at advanced stages and associated with early distant metastasis and poor survival. Besides clinical factors, the tumor microenvironment (TME) emerged as a crucial determinant of patient survival and therapy response in many tumors, including PDAC. Thus, the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and the formation of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) is associated with longer survival in PDAC. Although neoadjuvant therapy (NeoTx) has improved the management of locally advanced tumors, detailed insight into its effect on various TME components is limited. While a remodeling towards a proinflammatory state was reported for PDAC-infiltrating T cells, the effect of NeoTx on B cell subsets, including plasma cells, and TLS formation is widely unclear. We thus investigated the frequency, composition, and spatial distribution of PDAC-infiltrating B cells in primary resected (PR) versus neoadjuvant-treated patients using a novel multiplex immunohistochemistry panel. The NeoTx group displayed significantly lower frequencies of pan B cells, GC B cells, plasmablasts, and plasma cells, accompanied by a reduced abundance of TLS. This finding was supported by bulk RNA-sequencing analysis of an independent fresh frozen tissue cohort, which revealed that major B cell pathways were downregulated in the NeoTx group. We further observed that plasma cells frequently formed aggregates that localized close to TLS and that TLS+ patients displayed significantly higher plasma cell frequencies compared to TLS- patients in the PR group. Additionally, high densities of CD20+ intratumoral B cells were significantly associated with longer overall survival in the PR group. While CD20+ B cells held no prognostic value for NeoTx patients, an increased frequency of proliferating CD20+Ki67+ B cells emerged as an independent prognostic factor for longer survival in the NeoTx group. These results indicate that NeoTx differentially affects PDAC-infiltrating immune cells and may have detrimental effects on the existing B cell landscape and the formation of TLS. Gaining further insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms is crucial to overcome the intrinsic immunotherapy resistance of PDAC and develop novel strategies to improve the long-term outcome of PDAC patients.
Intraseasonal variability of the deep scattering layer induced by mesoscale eddy
Authors: Wang Bei , Yu Fei , Wang Ran , Tao Zhencheng , Ren Qiang , Liu Xing Chuan , Wang Jian Feng
Published: April 2024

The deep scattering layer (DSL), a stratum of the marine diel vertical migration (DVM) organisms inhabiting the mesopelagic ocean, plays a crucial role in transporting carbon and nutrients from the surface to depth through the migration of its organisms. Using 18 months of in-situ observations and altimeter sea level data, we reveal for the first time the intraseasonal variations and underlying mechanisms of the DSL and the DVM to the east of the Taiwan Island. Substantial vertical speeds acquired from the Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler were used to examine the distribution and variation of the DVM. Innovatively, the results for the power spectrum analysis of the scattering intensity demonstrated a significant intraseasonal variability (ISV) with an 80-day period in the DSL. Furthermore, the variation in the DVM was closely linked to the DSL and showed an 80-day ISV during the observation. A dynamic relationship between the ISV of the DSL east of Taiwan Island and the westward-propagating mesoscale eddies was established. Anticyclonic (cyclonic) eddy movement toward Taiwan Island triggers downward (upward) bending of the local isotherms, resulting in a layer of DSL warming (cooling) and subsequent upper boundary layer deepening (rising). These findings underscore the substantial influence of mesoscale eddies on biological activity in the mesopelagic ocean, establishing a novel understanding of ISV dynamics in the DSL and their links to eddy-induced processes.
Automatic rolling bearings fault classification: a case study at varying speed conditions
Authors: Du Nguyen Trong , Trung Pham Thanh , Cuong Nguyen Huu , Dien Nguyen Phong
Published: April 2024

Rolling bearings always operate under variable speed conditions, which poses a challenge for researchers in identifying and classifying bearing faults. In contrast to the stationary speed condition, the Fault Characteristic Frequency (FCF) under variable speed conditions exhibits a variable value that depends on the instantaneous shaft rotational speed (ISRS). The representation of the FCFs in the frequency domain reveals overlapping patterns among them. To solve the mentioned problem, a novel tool is proposed and established by mixing the two methods: The Fourier-based SynchroSqueezing transform (FSST) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). By illustrating the envelope signal in time-frequency distribution using FSST, the FCF is highlighted in each ISRS value. Finally, this time-frequency distribution is used as input of PCA to classify rolling bearings. This method successfully diagnosed both inner race fault and outer race fault of rolling bearings.
Synbiotic regulates gut microbiota in patients with lupus nephritis: an analysis using metagenomic and metabolome sequencing
Authors: Zhu Qiuyu , Cui Jiuming , Liu Sen , Wei Suosu , Wu Qiuxia , You Yanwu
Published: April 2024

Objective

To investigate the changes in gut microbes and their metabolites after administering synbiotics to patients with new-onset lupus nephritis (LN) treated using a conventional method and provide a theoretical basis for finding new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of LN.

Methods

In this study, a total of 12 participants were divided into the lupus and synbiotic groups. Stool samples and clinical data were collected before and after treatment for metagenomic, nontargeted metabolomic, and statistical analyses.

Results

The relative abundances of the pathogenic bacteria Prevotella, Bacteroides, and Enterobacteriaceae_unclassified decreased after synbiotic treatment, whereas the abundances of Actinobacteria and Firmicutes increased. Further, the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio increased; however, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). α diversity analysis showed no significant differences in the intestinal microbial richness and diversity index of patients with LN between the groups before and after treatment (p > 0.05). β analysis showed the differences in the community structure between the samples of the two groups before and after treatment. Linear discriminant analysis effect size and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses revealed that Negativicutes (AUC = 0.9722) and Enterobacteriaceae_unclassified (AUC = 0.9722) were the best predictors of the lupus and synbiotic groups, respectively, before and after treatment. Joint analyses revealed that amino acid biosynthesis, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, purine metabolism, and other metabolic pathways may be involved in the changes in the metabolic function of patients with LN after the addition of synbiotics. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed the interaction between clinical features and flora, and flora exhibited a complex biological network regulatory relationship.

Conclusion

Synbiotics regulate the metabolic functions of intestinal microorganisms in patients with LN and play a role in various biological functions. Synbiotic supplements may be safe and promising candidates for patients with LN.
Foundation species stabilize an alternative eutrophic state in nutrient-disturbed ponds via selection on microbial community
Authors: Jeevannavar Aditya , Narwani Anita , Matthews Blake , Spaak Piet , Brantschen Jeanine , Mächler Elvira , Altermatt Florian , Tamminen Manu
Published: April 2024

Eutrophication due to nutrient addition can result in major alterations in aquatic ecosystem productivity. Foundation species, individually and interactively, whether present as invasive species or as instruments of ecosystem management and restoration, can have unwanted effects like stabilizing turbid eutrophic states. In this study, we used whole-pond experimental manipulations to investigate the impacts of disturbance by nutrient additions in the presence and absence of two foundation species: Dreissena polymorpha (a freshwater mussel) and Myriophyllum spicatum (a macrophyte). We tracked how nutrient additions to ponds changed the prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities, using 16S, 18S, and COI amplicon sequencing. The nutrient disturbance and foundation species imposed strong selection on the prokaryotic communities, but not on the microbial eukaryotic communities. The prokaryotic communities changed increasingly over time as the nutrient disturbance intensified. Post-disturbance, the foundation species stabilized the prokaryotic communities as observed by the reduced rate of change in community composition. Our analysis suggests that prokaryotic community change contributed both directly and indirectly to major changes in ecosystem properties, including pH and dissolved oxygen. Our work shows that nutrient disturbance and foundation species strongly affect the prokaryotic community composition and stability, and that the presence of foundation species can, in some cases, promote the emergence and persistence of a turbid eutrophic ecosystem state.
Relationships among bacterial cell size, diversity, and taxonomy in rumen
Authors: Liu Sijia , Zheng Nan , Wang Jiaqi , Zhao Shengguo
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The rumen microbial community plays a crucial role in the digestion and metabolic processes of ruminants. Although sequencing-based studies have helped reveal the diversity and functions of bacteria in the rumen, their physiological and biochemical characteristics, as well as their dynamic regulation along the digestion process in the rumen, remain poorly understood. Addressing these gaps requires pure culture studies to demystify the intricate mechanisms at play. Bacteria exhibit morphological differentiation associated with different species. Based on the difference in size or shape of microorganisms, size fractionation by filters with various pore sizes can be used to separate them.

Methods

In this study, we used polyvinylidene difluoride filters with pore sizes of 300, 120, 80, 40, 20, 8, 6, 2.1, and 0.6 μm. Bacterial suspensions were successively passed through these filters for the analysis of microbial population distribution using 16S rRNA gene sequences.

Results

We found that bacteria from the different pore sizes were clustered into four branches (> 120 μm, 40–120 μm, 6–20 μm, 20–40 μm, and < 0.6 μm), indicating that size fractionation had effects on enriching specific groups but could not effectively separate dominant groups by cell size alone. The species of unclassified Flavobacterium, unclassified Chryseobacterium, unclassified Delftia, Methylotenera mobilis, unclassified Caulobacteraceae, unclassified Oligella, unclassified Sphingomonas, unclassified Stenotrophomonas, unclassified Shuttleworthia, unclassified Sutterella, unclassified Alphaproteobacteria, and unclassified SR1 can be efficiently enriched or separated by size fractionation.

Discussion

In this study, we investigated the diversity of sorted bacteria populations in the rumen for preliminary investigations of the relationship between the size and classification of rumen bacteria that have the potential to improve our ability to isolate and culture bacteria from the rumen in the future.
Association of multiple metabolic and cardiovascular markers with the risk of cognitive decline and mortality in adults with Alzheimer’s disease and AD-related dementia or cognitive decline: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Longjian , Gracely Edward J. , Zhao Xiaopeng , Gliebus Gediminas P. , May Nathalie S. , Volpe Stella L. , Shi Jingyi , DiMaria-Ghalili Rose Ann , Eisen Howard J.
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives

There is a scarcity of data stemming from large-scale epidemiological longitudinal studies focusing on potentially preventable and controllable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and AD-related dementia (ADRD). This study aimed to examine the effect of multiple metabolic factors and cardiovascular disorders on the risk of cognitive decline and AD/ADRD.

Methods

We analyzed a cohort of 6,440 participants aged 45–84 years at baseline. Multiple metabolic and cardiovascular disorder factors included the five components of the metabolic syndrome [waist circumference, high blood pressure (HBP), elevated glucose and triglyceride (TG) concentrations, and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentrations], C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, interleukin-6 (IL-6), factor VIII, D-dimer, and homocysteine concentrations, carotid intimal-medial thickness (CIMT), and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). Cognitive decline was defined using the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI) score, and AD/ADRD cases were classified using clinical diagnoses.

Results

Over an average follow-up period of 13 years, HBP and elevated glucose, CRP, homocysteine, IL-6, and ACR concentrations were significantly associated with the risk of mortality in the individuals with incident AD/ADRD or cognitive decline. Elevated D-dimer and homocysteine concentrations, as well as elevated ACR were significantly associated with incident AD/ADRD. Elevated homocysteine and ACR were significantly associated with cognitive decline. A dose–response association was observed, indicating that an increased number of exposures to multiple risk factors corresponded to a higher risk of mortality in individuals with cognitive decline or with AD/ADRD.

Conclusion

Findings from our study reaffirm the significance of preventable and controllable factors, including HBP, hyperglycemia, elevated CRP, D-dimer, and homocysteine concentrations, as well as, ACR, as potential risk factors for cognitive decline and AD/ADRD.
Associations of apolipoprotein E ε4 allele, regional cerebral blood flow, and serum liver function markers in patients with cognitive impairment
Authors: Wang Hao , Shi Lin , Luo Shimei , Luo Yishan , Xu Chunyan , Qiu Guozhen , Guo Qiwen , Chen Chunchun , Lu Taikun , Liu Kangding , Zhu Feiqi
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The ε4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE4) is expressed abundantly in both the brain and peripheral circulation as a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Cerebral blood flow (CBF) dysfunction is an essential feature of AD, and the liver plays an important role in the pathogenesis of dementia. However, the associations of APOE4 with CBF and liver function markers in patients with cognitive impairment remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the associations of APOE4 with CBF measured by arterial spin labeling (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and serum liver function markers in participants who were diagnosed with cognitive impairment.

Methods

Fourteen participants with AD and sixteen with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were recruited. In addition to providing comprehensive clinical information, all patients underwent laboratory tests and MRI. All participants were divided into carriers and noncarriers of the ε4 allele, and T-tests and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to observe the differences between APOE4 carriers and noncarriers in CBF and liver function markers.

Results

Regarding regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF), APOE4 carriers showed hyperperfusion in the bilateral occipital cortex, bilateral thalamus, and left precuneus and hypoperfusion in the right lateral temporal cortex when compared with noncarriers. Regarding serum liver function markers, bilirubin levels (including total, direct, and indirect) were lower in APOE4 carriers than in noncarriers.

Conclusion

APOE4 exerts a strong effect on CBF dysfunction by inheritance, representing a risk factor for AD. APOE4 may be related to bilirubin metabolism, potentially providing specific neural targets for the diagnosis and treatment of AD.
The effect of cognitive rehabilitation on daily functioning of patients with Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Ren Shuyu , Pan Fangfang , Jin Jie
Published: April 2024

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent type of dementia and represents 60–80% of dementia cases. AD affects over 32 million people globally, and 8.1% of affected females and 5.4% of affected males were older than 65 years. Cognitive rehabilitation focuses on helping patients develop individualized strategies to obtain or maintain optimal functioning. As of now, there is no complete and systematic meta-analysis on the effects of cognitive rehabilitation on cognitive functioning in AD patients.

Objectives

To provide the most recent and extensive pooled analysis and evidence and explore the influence of cognitive rehabilitation on overall cognitive functioning in patients with AD.

Methods

We searched articles through several databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science, from the inception to June 2023. Studies on cognitive stimulation, cognitive training, and cognitive interventions, and non-English articles were excluded. The outcome measures encompassed the effects of cognitive rehabilitation on the overall cognitive functioning of people with AD (e.g., verbal fluency, behavioral memory, neuropsychiatric status and occupational performance levels).

Results

A total of 14 clinical trials were included in this analysis. The meta-analysis showed that cognitive rehabilitation significantly improved quality of life (WMD: 2.87; 95% CI: 0.79, 4.95; p = 0.007) and occupational performance levels (WMD: 1.53; 95% CI: 0.43, 2.63; p = 0.007) in patients with AD. However, it did not show a significant effect on other domains of specific cognitive functions in patients with AD.

Conclusion

Cognitive rehabilitation exhibited a moderate to large impact on both quality of life and occupational performance levels in people with AD. Future studies are required to explore the potential of various cognitive interventions across specific domains, so as to provide more insights into the management of AD.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023444390.
Machine learning applied to epilepsy: bibliometric and visual analysis from 2004 to 2023
Authors: Huo Qing , Luo Xu , Xu Zu-Cai , Yang Xiao-Yan
Published: April 2024

Background

Epilepsy is one of the most common serious chronic neurological disorders, which can have a serious negative impact on individuals, families and society, and even death. With the increasing application of machine learning techniques in medicine in recent years, the integration of machine learning with epilepsy has received close attention, and machine learning has the potential to provide reliable and optimal performance for clinical diagnosis, prediction, and precision medicine in epilepsy through the use of various types of mathematical algorithms, and promises to make better parallel advances. However, no bibliometric assessment has been conducted to evaluate the scientific progress in this area. Therefore, this study aims to visually analyze the trend of the current state of research related to the application of machine learning in epilepsy through bibliometrics and visualization.

Methods

Relevant articles and reviews were searched for 2004–2023 using Web of Science Core Collection database, and bibliometric analyses and visualizations were performed in VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Bibliometrix (R-Tool of R-Studio).

Results

A total of 1,284 papers related to machine learning in epilepsy were retrieved from the Wo SCC database. The number of papers shows an increasing trend year by year. These papers were mainly from 1,957 organizations in 87 countries/regions, with the majority from the United States and China. The journal with the highest number of published papers is EPILEPSIA. Acharya, U. Rajendra (Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore) is the authoritative author in the field and his paper “Deep Convolutional Neural Networks for Automated Detection and Diagnosis of Epileptic Seizures Using EEG Signals” was the most cited. Literature and keyword analysis shows that seizure prediction, epilepsy management and epilepsy neuroimaging are current research hotspots and developments.

Conclusions

This study is the first to use bibliometric methods to visualize and analyze research in areas related to the application of machine learning in epilepsy, revealing research trends and frontiers in the field. This information will provide a useful reference for epilepsy researchers focusing on machine learning.
The gut microbiome and sociability
Authors: Weber Katherine T. , Varian Bernard J. , Erdman Susan E.
Published: April 2024

The human gut microbiome plays an important role in the maturation of the neural, immune, and endocrine systems. Research data from animal models shows that gut microbiota communicate with the host's brain in an elaborate network of signaling pathways, including the vagus nerve. Part of the microbiome's influence extends to the behavioral and social development of its host. As a social species, a human's ability to communicate with others is imperative to their survival and quality of life. Current research explores the gut microbiota's developmental influence as well as how these gut-brain pathways can be leveraged to alleviate the social symptoms associated with various neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diseases. One intriguing vein of research in animal models centers on probiotic treatment, which leads to downstream increased circulation of endogenous oxytocin, a neuropeptide hormone relevant to sociability. Further research may lead to therapeutic applications in humans, particularly in the early stages of their lives.
Comparison of the efficacy of thoracolumbosacral and lumbosacral orthosis for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in patients with major thoracolumbar or lumbar curves: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Sha Lin , Zhang Tianyuan , Sui Wenyuan , Fan Qing , Yang Jingfan , Deng Yaolong , Huang Zifang , Yang Junlin
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) is the most commonly used type of brace for the conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Although lumbosacral orthosis (LSO) is designed to correct single thoracolumbar or lumbar (TL/L) curves, its effectiveness remains underexplored. This novel article aims to compare the effectiveness of LSO with TLSO in treating AIS with main TL/L curves.

Methods

This prospective controlled cohort study enrolled patients with AIS with main TL/L curves and minor thoracic curves who were treated with either TLSO or LSO. Demographic and radiographic data were compared between the two groups. Treatment outcomes were also assessed. Risk factors for minor curve progression were identified, and a cut-off value was determined within the LSO group.

Results

Overall, 82 patients were recruited, including 44 in the TLSO group and 38 in the LSO group. The initial TL/L curves showed no difference between both groups. However, the baseline thoracic curves were significantly larger in the TLSO group compared to the LSO group (25.98° ± 7.47° vs. 18.71° ± 5.95°, P < 0.001). At the last follow-up, LSO demonstrated similar effectiveness to TLSO in treating TL/L curves but was less effective for thoracic curves. The initial magnitude of thoracic curves was identified as a risk factor for minor curve outcomes in the LSO group. The ROC curve analysis determined a cut-off value of 21° for thoracic curves to predict treatment outcomes.

Discussion

In contrast to TLSO, LSO exhibits comparable effectiveness in treating main TL/L curves, making it a viable clinical option; however, it is less effective for thoracic minor curves. The initial magnitude of the minor thoracic curves may guide the selection of the appropriate brace type for patients with AIS with main TL/L curves.
Different therapeutic approaches in melasma: advances and limitations
Authors: Ghasemiyeh Parisa , Fazlinejad Rahil , Kiafar Mohammad Reza , Rasekh Shiva , Mokhtarzadegan Mohammad , Mohammadi-Samani Soliman
Published: April 2024

Melasma is a chronic hyperpigmentation skin disorder that is more common in the female gender. Although melasma is a multifactorial skin disorder, however, sun-exposure and genetic predisposition are considered as the main etiologic factors in melasma occurrence. Although numerous topical and systemic therapeutic agents and also non-pharmacologic procedural treatments have been considered in melasma management, however, the commonly available therapeutic options have several limitations including the lack of sufficient clinical effectiveness, risk of relapse, and high rate of unwanted adverse drug reactions. Recruitment of nanotechnology for topical drug delivery in melasma management can lead to enhanced skin penetration, targeted drug delivery to the site of action, longer deposition at the targeted area, and limit systemic absorption and therefore systemic availability and adverse drug reactions. In the current review, first of all, the etiology, pathophysiology, and severity classification of melasma have been considered. Then, various pharmacologic and procedural therapeutic options in melasma treatment have been discussed. Afterward, the usage of various types of nanoparticles for the purpose of topical drug delivery for melasma management was considered. In the end, numerous clinical studies and controlled clinical trials on the assessment of the effectiveness of these novel topical formulations in melasma management are summarized.
The effect of 10 weeks of karate training on the development of motor skills in children who are new to karate
Authors: Arslan Yasin , Yavaşoğlu Belma , Beykumül Ayşegül , Pekel Aylin Özge , Suveren Ceren , Karabulut Ebru Olcay , Ayyıldız Durhan Tebessüm , Çakır Veli Ozan , Sarıakçalı Nuriye , Küçük Hamza , Ceylan Levent
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the effect of a 10-week karate training program on the motor skill development of 5-7-year-old children new to karate with two different test batteries. A total of 28 participants were included in the study: 18 in the Karate group and 10 in the control group. The karate group was subjected to a fundamental karate training (kihon) program consisting of 90-minute sessions four days a week for ten weeks in addition to physical education classes at their schools. In contrast, the control group did not participate in any sportive activities except physical education classes in their schools. Data were collected using the Eurofit test battery and the TGMD-2 test. In the pre-post test comparison of the anthropometric measurements of the karate group, no significant difference was found in the control group. In contrast, a significant difference was obtained in height, body mass index, and body fat percentage. In the post-test analysis of the two independent groups, there were statistically significant differences in favor of the karate group regarding height and body fat percentage (p < 0.005). In the pre-post analysis of the Eurofit test and the TGMD-2 for the karate group, all parameters showed statistically significant improvements (p < 0.001), while the control group showed no statistical difference. After comparing the karate and control groups, the Eurofit Test and TGMD-2 post-test results showed significantly higher scores (statistically significant differences) in all parameters for the karate group. In conclusion, the study shows that the 10-week karate training program positively affected the motor development of the participating children.
SmEIL1 transcription factor inhibits tanshinone accumulation in response to ethylene signaling in Salvia miltiorrhiza
Authors: Li Xiujuan , Xu Man , Zhou Ke , Hao Siyu , Li Liqin , Wang Leran , Zhou Wei , Kai Guoyin
Published: April 2024

Among the bioactive compounds, lipid-soluble tanshinone is present in Salvia miltiorrhiza, a medicinal plant species. While it is known that ethephon has the ability to inhibit the tanshinones biosynthesis in the S. miltiorrhiza hairy root, however the underlying regulatory mechanism remains obscure. In this study, using the transcriptome dataset of the S. miltiorrhiza hairy root induced by ethephon, an ethylene-responsive transcriptional factor EIN3-like 1 (SmEIL1) was identified. The SmEIL1 protein was found to be localized in the nuclei, and confirmed by the transient transformation observed in tobacco leaves. The overexpression of SmEIL1 was able to inhibit the tanshinones accumulation to a large degree, as well as down-regulate tanshinones biosynthetic genes including SmGGPPS1, SmHMGR1, SmHMGS1, SmCPS1, SmKSL1 and SmCYP76AH1. These are well recognized participants in the tanshinones biosynthesis pathway. Further investigation on the SmEIL1 was observed to inhibit the transcription of the CPS1 gene by the Dual-Luciferase (Dual-LUC) and yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) assays. The data in this work will be of value regarding the involvement of EILs in regulating the biosynthesis of tanshinones and lay the foundation for the metabolic engineering of bioactive ingredients in S. miltiorrhiza.
Fulvic acid alleviates cadmium-induced root growth inhibition by regulating antioxidant enzyme activity and carbon–nitrogen metabolism in apple seedlings
Authors: Yu Bo , Xue Xiaomin , Nie Peixian , Lu Ninglin , Wang Laiping
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Substantial previous studies have reported that fulvic acid (FA) application plays an important role in Chinese agricultural production. However, little is known about the mechanisms for using FA to increase apple trees resistance to Cd toxicity. In order to clarify the mechanism underlying FA alleviation in Cd-induced growth inhibition in apple seedlings.

Methods

Herein, we treated M9T337 seedlings to either 0 or 30 µM/L Cd together with 0 or 0.2 g/L FA and analyzed the root growth, antioxidant enzyme activities, carbon (C) assimilation, nitrogen (N) metabolism, and C and N transport.

Results

The results presented that, compared with CK (without Cd addition or FA spraying application), Cd poisoning significantly inhibited the root growth of apple seedlings. However, this Cd-induced root growth inhibition was significantly alleviated by FA spraying relative to the Cd treatment (Cd addition alone). On the one hand, the mitigation of inhibition effects was due to the reduced oxidative damage by enhancing antioxdiant enzyme (SOD, POD, and CAT) activities in leaves and roots. On the other hand, this growth advantage demonstrated compared to the Cd treatment was found to be associated with the strengthen of photosynthetic performance and the elevation of C and N metabolism enzymes activities. Meanwhile, we also found that under Cd stress condition, the distribution of C and N nutrients in apple seedlings was optimised by FA spraying application relative to the Cd treatment, according to the results of 13C and 15N tracing.

Conclusion

Conclusively, our results suggested that the inhibitory effect of Cd on apple seedlings root growth was alleviated by FA through regulating antioxdiant capacities and C and N metabolism.
GDNF and miRNA-29a as biomarkers in the first episode of psychosis: uncovering associations with psychosocial factors
Authors: Szwajca Marta , Kazek Grzegorz , Śmierciak Natalia , Mizera Józef , Pomierny-Chamiolo Lucyna , Szwajca Krzysztof , Biesaga Beata , Pilecki Maciej
Published: April 2024

Aim

Schizophrenia involves complex interactions between biological and environmental factors, including childhood trauma, cognitive impairments, and premorbid adjustment. Predicting its severity and progression remains challenging. Biomarkers like glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and miRNA-29a may bridge biological and environmental aspects. The goal was to explore the connections between miRNAs and neural proteins and cognitive functioning, childhood trauma, and premorbid adjustment in the first episode of psychosis (FEP).

Method

This study included 19 FEP patients who underwent clinical evaluation with: the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), the Premorbid Adjustment Scale (PAS), the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA). Multiplex assays for plasma proteins were conducted with Luminex xMAP technology. Additionally, miRNA levels were quantitatively determined through RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, and RT-qPCR on a 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR System.

Results

Among miRNAs, only miR-29a-3p exhibited a significant correlation with PAS-C scores (r = -0.513, p = 0.025) and cognitive improvement (r = -0.505, p = 0.033). Among the analyzed proteins, only GDNF showed correlations with MoCA scores at the baseline and after 3 months (r = 0.533, p = 0.0189 and r = 0.598, p = 0.007), cognitive improvement (r = 0.511, p = 0.025), and CTQ subtests. MIF concentrations correlated with the PAS-C subscale (r = -0.5670, p = 0.011).

Conclusion

GDNF and miR-29a-3p are promising as biomarkers for understanding and addressing cognitive deficits in psychosis. This study links miRNA and MIF to premorbid adjustment and reveals GDNF’s unique role in connection with childhood trauma.
Reduce stress and the risk of burnout by using yoga techniques. Pilot study
Authors: Zok Agnieszka , Matecka Monika , Bienkowski Artur , Ciesla Magdalena
Published: April 2024

Introduction

This article examines the effectiveness of yoga in managing stress, with a particular focus on work-related stress. Yoga combines physical postures, breath control, and meditation, and has gained recognition for its potential to relieve stress.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the motivating factors behind individuals adopting yoga exercises and to assess the effects of regular yoga practice, with a particular focus on age-related differences. Additionally, we aimed to compare participants’ expectations with the actual results of their yoga practice.

Methods

To achieve this, we conducted a comprehensive survey using an online form, which was completed by 520 yoga practitioners. Participants were surveyed about their motivation, the effects they experienced, and the type of yoga they practiced.

Results

The results showed that the most common motivation for individuals practicing yoga was stress reduction. Additionally, the analysis of the effects of regular yoga practice demonstrated a significant reduction in stress levels, with experienced practitioners reporting lower stress levels compared to beginners. In conclusion, the study suggests that regular yoga practice can be an effective way to reduce stress levels.

Conclusion

Dynamic forms of yoga, which incorporate fluid movements and synchronized breathing techniques, are highly effective approaches to stress management and relief. These findings highlight the value of yoga as a tool for individuals of all ages seeking stress relief and overall well-being. Another advantage of yoga practice is its affordability and lack of negative side effects.
Contaminant or goldmine? In silico assessment of Symbiodiniaceae community using coral hologenomes
Authors: Ishida Hisatake , Riginos Cynthia , Chan Cheong Xin
Published: April 2024

Endosymbiotic dinoflagellates of the family Symbiodiniaceae are symbionts essential to corals and other marine organisms. A coral holobiont consists of the coral host, Symbiodiniaceae, and other microbes that together sustain the overall productivity and coral health. Coral hologenome data, generated from all interacting components of a coral holobiont, are key for elucidating the molecular mechanisms that underpin the resilience of the holobiont to changing environments. Although coral hologenome data are often dominated by host coral genomic sequences, they provide an avenue for recovering genomic sequences from Symbiodiniaceae in hospite. Here, we review recent advances in the approaches for assessing community diversity of in hospite Symbiodiniaceae from coral hologenome data. Using a case study based on existing hologenome datasets of the Acropora kenti coral, we highlight how hologenome datasets in large numbers can provide a useful analysis platform for assessing Symbiodiniaceae diversity and their function in coral holobionts.
Impact of “Dry Sowing and Wet Emergence” Water Regulation on Physiological Growth Characteristics and Water Productivity of Cotton Fields in Southern Xinjiang Province
Authors: Ma Jianqin , Ding Yu , Zhang Jianghui , Bai Yungang , Cui Bifeng , Hao Xiuping , Zheng Ming , Ding Bangxin , Yang Shuoguo
Published: April 2024

Determining a suitable “dry sowing and wet emergence” water control program for cotton fields in the arid regions of Northwest China is of great significance in saving water resources, improving economic efficiency, and promoting sustainable development of agriculture. The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of different “dry sowing and wet emergence” water control treatments on dry matter accumulation, chlorophyll fluorescence, yield quality, and water productivity of cotton, and to determine the optimal “dry sowing and wet emergence” water control program for cotton growth in arid areas. A two-year experiment was carried out in 2021 and 2022 in mulched drip-irrigated cotton fields, with a total of 13 treatments of different seedling water quantities (2021: 67.5 mm, 90 mm, 112.5 mm; 2022: 6 mm, 10.5 mm, 15 mm) and different drip frequencies (frequencies means number of drops at seedling stage) (2021: one, two, three times; 2022: two times, four times) in the “dry sowing and wet emergence”. Results indicated a positive correlation between increased seedling water quantity and growth indexes. High seedling water quantity treatment demonstrated a 14.33% higher cotton yield than the low seedling water quantity treatment. In comparison with low-frequency treatment, the high-frequency treatment exhibited significantly larger cotton plant height, dry matter accumulation, and yield. Over two years, the average values increased by 8.69%, 16.4%, and 15.91%, respectively, with a 14.55% increase in the coefficient of photochemical quenching of the leaf blade (qP). The high frequency and larger amount of seedling water quantity treatments showed significantly higher irrigation water productivity, with increases of 39.2% and 70.2% compared to the winter irrigation control treatment. In summary, the appropriate “dry sowing wet emergence” water regulation mode (the first drip: 15 mm, the second drip: 4.5 mm, the third drip: 22.5 mm, the fourth drip: 15 mm) can ensure crop yield quality under the premise of significantly reducing the agricultural irrigation water, which can provide certain theoretical support for the green, efficient, and sustainable development of the local cotton industry.
Antibiotic Residues, Antimicrobial Resistance and Intervention Strategies of Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Wu Yongning , Zeng Zhenling
Published: April 2024

The primary determinant of human health is undoubtedly safe food [...]
Comparison of the Properties and Structure of Montmorillonites Modified with Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Krasinskyi Volodymyr , Dulebova Ludmila , Malinowski Rafał , Bajer Krzysztof , Krasinska Oksana
Published: April 2024

The modification method of aluminosilicate clays and the modifier content have a decisive influence on the structure and properties of the obtained nanocomposites. Therefore, the development and research of new techniques of nanoclays modification are of great importance for polymer nano-chemistry. The work studied the modification of montmorillonite (MMT) using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in an aqueous colloidal solution with the subsequent separation of three separate fractions of the solution according to the previously developed method. The influence of the initial mass ratio of components (MMT/PVP) on the structure and thermal properties of the modified MMT in each solution layer was determined. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used for research. It was established that the mass ratio of components in the initial solution has almost no effect on the structure of MMT in the top and middle solution layers, but significantly affects the yield of final products. Different structures can be obtained in the bottom layer of the solution. Still, intercalated MMT was obtained exclusively at the mass ratio of MMT/PVP = 1:2. In addition, the work investigated the structure and thermal properties of modified montmorillonites with the same PVP content, and it has been proven that such composites have dissimilar structures and properties when obtained by different methods.
The Intraday Dynamics Predictor: A TrioFlow Fusion of Convolutional Layers and Gated Recurrent Units for High-Frequency Price Movement Forecasting
Authors: Zaznov Ilia , Kunkel Julian Martin , Badii Atta , Dufour Alfonso
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces a novel deep learning approach for intraday stock price direction prediction, motivated by the need for more accurate models to enable profitable algorithmic trading. The key problems addressed are effectively modelling complex limit order book (LOB) and order flow (OF) microstructure data and improving prediction accuracy over current state-of-the-art models. The proposed deep learning model, TrioFlow Fusion of Convolutional Layers and Gated Recurrent Units (TFF-CL-GRU), takes LOB and OF features as input and consists of convolutional layers splitting into three channels before rejoining into a Gated Recurrent Unit. Key innovations include a tailored input representation incorporating LOB and OF features across recent timestamps, a hierarchical feature-learning architecture leveraging convolutional and recurrent layers, and a model design specifically optimised for LOB and OF data. Experiments utilise a new dataset (MICEX LOB OF) with over 1.5 million LOB and OF records and the existing LOBSTER dataset. Comparative evaluation against the state-of-the-art models demonstrates significant performance improvements with the TFF-CL-GRU approach. Through simulated trading experiments, the model also demonstrates practical applicability, yielding positive returns when used for trade signals. This work contributes a new dataset, performance improvements for microstructure-based price prediction, and insights into effectively applying deep learning to financial time-series data. The results highlight the viability of data-driven deep learning techniques in algorithmic trading systems.
The Pre-Heating Effect for Porosity Control during the Laser Welding of Galvanized Steel Sheets
Authors: Bang Hee-Seon , Kim Jong-Chan , Go Bum-Su , Choi Dong-Won , Kim Hyo-Sung
Published: April 2024

Recently, for the high performance of automobiles, the application ratio of zinc-coated steel sheets with excellent corrosion resistance has been increasing. However, it is difficult to achieve sound welds, as porosities form from zinc during welding. In this study, a laser welding process, with the addition of a pretreatment step to conventional laser welding, was devised to improve weld quality by eliminating pores caused by zinc in the welds. Laser welding was performed on the overlapping joint of hot-dip galvanized steel sheets (SGARC 340, Hyundai Steel., Suncheon-Si, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea), with a thickness of 1.2 mm in the upper sheet and 0.9 mm in the lower sheet, and the welding characteristics were investigated by varying the laser power and focal position. Compared to conventional laser welding, the three-step laser stitch welding process significantly reduced the degree of spatter generation and welding defects. Additionally, it increased the tensile–shear load by approximately 37%. Moreover, the reduction in the zinc component of the three-step laser stitch welds was confirmed through SEM-EDS analysis. These findings contribute valuable information for securing high-quality welding joints and effectively addressing zinc-coated steel sheet welding quality issues in the automotive and industrial sectors.
XCO2 Super-Resolution Reconstruction Based on Spatial Extreme Random Trees
Authors: Li Xuwen , Jiang Sheng , Wang Xiangyuan , Wang Tiantian , Zhang Su , Guo Jinjin , Jiao Donglai
Published: April 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is currently the most harmful greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. Obtaining long-term, high-resolution atmospheric column CO2 concentration (XCO2) datasets is of great practical significance for mitigating the greenhouse effect, identifying and controlling carbon emission sources, and achieving carbon cycle management. However, mainstream satellite observations provide XCO2 datasets with coarse spatial resolution, which is insufficient to support the needs of higher-precision research. To address this gap, in this study, we integrate spatial information with the extreme random trees model and develop a new machine learning model called spatial extreme random trees (SExtraTrees) to reconstruct a 1 km spatial resolution XCO2 dataset for China from 2016 to 2020. The results indicate that the predictive ability of spatial extreme random trees is more stable and has higher fitting accuracy compared to other methods. Overall, XCO2 in China shows an increasing trend year by year, with the spatial distribution revealing significantly higher XCO2 levels in eastern coastal regions compared to western inland areas. The contributions of this study are primarily in the following areas: (1) Considering the spatial heterogeneity of XCO2 and combining spatial features with the advantages of machine learning, we construct the spatial extreme random trees model, which is verified to have high predictive accuracy. (2) Using the spatial extreme random trees model, we reconstruct high-resolution XCO2 datasets for China from 2016 to 2020, providing data support for carbon emission reduction and related decision making. (3) Based on the generated dataset, we analyze the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of XCO2 in China, thereby improving emission reduction policies and sustainable development measures.
Inequalities of Ostrowski Type for Functions Whose Derivative Module Is Relatively Convex on Time Scales
Authors: Rezk Haytham M. , Saied Ahmed I. , Ali Maha , AlNemer Ghada , Zakarya Mohammed
Published: April 2024

In this article, we discuss several novel generalized Ostrowski-type inequalities for functions whose derivative module is relatively convex in time scales calculus. Our core findings are proved by using the integration by parts technique, Hölder’s inequality, and the chain rule on time scales. These derived inequalities expand the existing literature, enriching specific integral inequalities within this domain.