bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mid-Cretaceous Accelerated Cooling of the Beishan Orogen, NW China: Evidence from Apatite Fission Track Thermochronology
Authors: Wang Fujun , Luo Meng , He Zhiyuan , Wang Yiqiong , Zheng Bihai , Zhang Zhiyong , Hu Xiao , Zhu Wenbin
Published: January 2024

The Beishan orogen, a significant component of the southern Altaids, presents an opportunity for investigating the intracontinental deformation and exhumation history of the Altaids during the Mesozoic era. Although previous studies indicated that the Beishan orogen has experienced multiple reactivation since the late Mesozoic, the precise extent of these events remains poorly constrained. Here, we provide a comprehensive synthesis of field observations and apatite fission track (AFT) thermochronological dating throughout the Beishan orogen. Detailed field observations confirmed four major E-W trending thrusts in our study area. Based on the youngest truncated strata associated with the thrusts and previous dating results from neighboring regions, we propose that these thrust sheets likely developed in the late Middle Jurassic. AFT dating results from seven pre-Mesozoic granitoid samples and associated with thermal history modeling demonstrate that the Beishan orogen experienced a rapid basement cooling during the mid-Cretaceous (~115–80 Ma). Moreover, a compilation of previously published and newly gained AFT data reveals a comparable mid-Cretaceous cooling event in other parts of Central Asia, such as Qilian Shan, Eastern Tianshan, and Altai-Sayan. This observation suggests that the mid-Cretaceous cooling event is more likely to be regional rather than localized. This mid-Cretaceous cooling pulse is interpreted as a tectonic exhumation controlled by boundary faults and related to the rotation of the Junggar and Tarim basins. These processes are linked to distant plate-margin events along the Eurasian continent.
Gravity-Seismic Joint Inversion of Lithospheric Density Structure in the Qiongdongnan Basin, Northwest South China Sea
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Gong Wei , Zhao Lihong , Li Zhonghua , Zhi Pengyao , Ge Jiayu
Published: January 2024

Qiongdongnan Basin (QDNB), located at the northwestern corner of the South China Sea (SCS), is a key juncture between the extensional tectonic regime in the northern continental margin and the shear tectonic regime in the western continental margin. Analyzing the crustal density structure and tracking the thermodynamic controlling factors are effective approaches to reveal the nonuniform breakup process of the northwestern SCS. Herein, focusing on the obvious tectonic deformation with distinct eastern and western parts in the QDNB, we present the crustal density structures of five profiles and identify the high-density anomaly related to the synrifting mantle underplating and postrifting magmatic intrusions. The crustal density model was constructed from the Bouguer gravity anomaly, ocean bottom seismic profiles, and multichannel seismic reflection profiles. The northern part of QDNB, with normal crustal density, lower surface heat flow of <55 mW/m2, and limited extension factor of 1.25–1.70, is recognized as the initial nonuniform extension continental crust. The mantle underplating beneath the QDNB is identified as a high mantle density of 3.30–3.40 g/cm3 and a high lower crustal density of 2.92–2.96 g/cm3, which is usually recognized by the high-velocity layers in the northeastern margin of SCS. The magmatic intrusions are identified as the high-density bodies ranging from 3.26 g/cm3 at the base to 2.64 g/cm3 at the top, which become stronger from the west to east. The central part of Xisha Trough is featured by the cooling of the heavily thinned lower crust in the final continental rifting stage, which is close to the cold and rigid oceanic crust. Lateral variations in the deep magmatic anomaly should be the crucial factor for the nonuniform breakup process in the northwestern margin of SCS.
Influence of Hydraulic Conditions on Seepage Characteristics of Loose Sandstone
Authors: Jia Mingtao , Jiang Quan , Xu Qi , Su Xuebin
Published: January 2024

To investigate the impact of hydraulic conditions on the seepage characteristics of loose sandstone, this study employed optimized methods to prepare loose sandstone samples. Subsequently, seepage experiments were conducted under different injection pressures, flow rates, and flow volumes. The permeability, porosity, particle size distribution, and other parameters of the rock samples were obtained. By analyzing the response of seepage characteristics to pore and particle size characteristics, the influence of different hydraulic conditions on the seepage characteristics of loose sandstone was explored. The results indicated that improvements in the parameters of hydraulic conditions had different effects on various rock samples. For rock samples with developed seepage channels, increasing the value of each hydraulic condition parameter could expand the channels and discharge particles, and improve permeability. For rock samples with a larger number of small pores, increasing each hydraulic condition parameter caused particles to crack under pressure, drove particles to block holes, and thus reduced permeability. In this experiment, the permeability parameter had a significant positive response to the proportion of pores larger than 0.1 µm and a significant negative response to the proportion of particles smaller than 150 µm.
CMOS Optoelectronic Spectrometer based on Photonic Integrated Circuits for In Vivo 3D Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Drexler Wolfgang , Agneter Anja , Müllner Paul , Nguyen Quang , Seyringer Dana , Rank Elisabet , Vlaskovic Marko , Kraft Jochen , Sagmeister Martin , Nevlacsil Stefan , Eggleing Moritz , Maese-Novo Alejandro , Morozov Yevhenii , Bodenstorfer Ernst , Cipriano Pietro , Zimmermann Horst , Leitgeb Rainer , Hainberger Rainer , Schmitner Nicole , Kimmel Robin
Published: January 2024

Photonics integrated circuits (PICs) represent a promising technology for the much-needed medical devices of today. Their primary advantage lies in their ability to integrate multiple functions onto a single chip, thereby reducing the complexity, size, maintenance requirements, and costs. When applied to optical coherence tomography (OCT), the leading tool for state-of-the-art ophthalmic diagnosis, PICs have the potential to increase accessibility, especially in scenarios, where size, weight, or costs are limiting factors.
In this paper, we introduce an unprecedented fully integrated CMOS-compatible spectrometer, an optoelectronic system based on PIC for spectral domain OCT. To achieve this, we co-integrated a 512-channel arrayed waveguide grating with electronics.
We successfully addressed the challenge of establishing a connection with minimal losses between the optical components and photodiodes co-integrated on a chip achieving a transmission efficiency of 70%.
With this fully integrated PIC-based spectrometer interfaced to a spectral domain OCT system, we achieved a sensitivity of 92dB at an imaging speed of 55kHz, with a 6dB signal roll-off occurring at 2mm. We applied this innovative technology successfully to obtain 3D in vivo tomograms of zebrafish larvae and human skin.
This ground-breaking fully integrated spectrometer represents a significant step towards a miniaturised, cost-effective, and maintenance-free OCT system.
Risk factors for developing Polyautoimmunity in patients with non-infectious uveitis and their impact on visual outcomes.
Authors: de-la-Torre Alejandra , Cifuentes-González Carlos , Rojas-Carabali William , Mejia-Salgado Germán , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Camilo Andrés , Saboya-Galindo Paola , Romero-Santos Sofia , Flórez-Esparza Gabriela
Published: January 2024

Objectives To identify the risk factors for PolyA development in NIU patients and determine if PolyA may be related to worse visual outcomes.Methods We investigated immune-mediated diseases in a cross-sectional study of 218 consecutive NIU patients. Univariate logistic regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis with Cox regression were performed for losing two lines of vision on the Snellen between patients with PolyA and without PolyA.Results PolyA was present in 45.9% of NIU patients. Median age at diagnosis was 44 (IQR 24–57) years, with a predominance of women (PolyA 71% vs. without PolyA 68%). Uveitis etiology shows a difference between patients with PolyA and without PolyA (autoimmune disease represents 54% PolyA vs. 0.8% without PolyA (P < 0.001)). Clinical features of PolyA uveitis included mainly bilateral, anterior, and non-granulomatous, with insidious onset and a recurrent course. The most common immunomarkers were HLA-B27 and antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), that was also significantly more frequent in PolyA patients (25% vs. 9.3% (P = 0.002)). Risk factors for developing PolyA included ages 30–64, anterior uveitis, positive ANAs, and familial autoimmunity. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a statistically significant increased risk of losing two lines of vision on the Snellen chart for visual acuity (HR = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.00-6.29, P = 0.049).Conclusion The development of PolyA in NIU can lead to a more rapid loss of two or more lines of vision. NIU patients aged 30–64 with anterior uveitis, familial autoimmunity, and positive ANAs require frequent follow-up to identify and manage it promptly.
Nitrous Oxide activates layer 5 prefrontal cortical neurons via SK2 channel inhibition for antidepressant effect
Authors: Cichon Joseph , Joseph Thomas , Wasilczuk Andrzej , Markman Daniel , Kelz Max , Nagele Peter
Published: January 2024

Nitrous oxide (N2O) induces rapid and durable antidepressant effects in patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression1,2. The cellular and circuit mechanisms mediating this process are not known. Here we find that a single dose of inhaled N2O induces rapid and specific activation of layer V (L5) pyramidal neurons in the prefrontal cortex of rodents exposed to chronic stress conditions. N2O-induced L5 activation rescues a stress-associated hypoactivity state, persists following N2O exposure, and is necessary for its antidepressant action. While NMDA-receptor (NMDA-R) antagonism has been N2O’s purported mechanism of action, L5 neurons activate independently from NMDA-R function and synaptic activity. By examining different molecular targets controlling excitability and cortical circuit elements, we identify N2O-induced inhibition of calcium-sensitive potassium (SK2) channels as a primary molecular interaction responsible for driving both rapid and persistent L5 activity along with its ensuing antidepressant-like effects. These results suggest that N2O-induced L5 activation is crucial for its fast antidepressant action and this effect involves novel and specific molecular actions with SK2 channels expressed in specific L5 cell types.
A Study on the Development of a Fitness Age Prediction Model: The National Fitness Award Cohort Study 2017-2021
Authors: Yoon Dong Hyun , Lee Shi-Uk , Kim Jeong-Hyun
Published: January 2024

Background
Physical fitness is considered an important indicator of the health of the general public, and in particular, the physical fitness of the elderly people is an important criterion for determining the possibility of independent living. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the association between chronological age and physical fitness variables in the National Fitness Award Cohort study data and to develop multiple linear regression analyses to predict fitness age using dependent variables.
Methods
Data from 501,774 (359,303 adults, 142,471 elderly) individuals who participated in the Korea National Fitness Award Cohort Study from 2017 to 2021 were collected. The physical fitness tests consisted of 5 candidate markers for adults and 6 candidate markers for the elderly adults to measure muscle strength, muscle endurance, cardiopulmonary endurance, flexibility, balance, and agility. Pearson’s correlation and stepwise regression analyses were used to analyze the data.
Results
We obtained a predicted individual fitness age values from physical fitness indicators for adults and elderly individuals, and the mean explanatory power of the fitness age for adults was [100.882 – (.029 × VO2max) – (1.171 × Relative HGS) – (.032 × Sit-up) + (.769 × Gender Male = 1; Female = 2) + (.769 × Gender = 2)] was 93.6% (adjusted R2); additionally, the fitness age for elderly individuals was [79.807 – (.017 × 2-minute step test) – (.203 × 30-second chair stand) – (.031 × 30-second chair stand) – (.052 × TUG) + (.985 × TUG) – (3.468 × Gender Male = 1; Female = 2)] was 24.3% (adjusted R2).
Conclusions
We suggest the use of fitness age as a valid indicator of fitness in adults and the elderly individuals as well as a useful motivational tool for undertaking exercise prescription programs along with exercise recommendations at the national level.
Development of a habit-based intervention to support healthy eating and physical activity behaviours for pregnant women with overweight or obesity: Healthy Habits in Pregnancy and Beyond (HHIPBe)
Authors: McClelland Julia , Gallagher Dunla , Moore Sarah E , McGirr Caroline , Beeken Rebecca J , Croker Helen , Eastwood Kelly-Ann , O’Neill Roisin F , Woodside Jayne V , McGowan Laura , McKinley Michelle C
Published: January 2024

Background
The number of women entering pregnancy with overweight or obesity is increasing. This can increase the risk for excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) which is associated with health complications for mother and baby. There are limited evidence-based interventions within antenatal care settings to encourage healthy eating and physical activity behaviours and support women with managing GWG.
Methods
A previous habit-based intervention ‘Ten Top Tips for a Healthy Weight’ (10TT) was adapted and made suitable for pregnancy in line with the Medical Research Council’s (MRC) complex intervention development guidelines. It involved three key activities: 1) identifying the evidence base; 2) identifying appropriate theory; and, 3) modelling processes. A core element was integrating lived experience via personal and public involvement (PPI).
Results
The original 10TTs were adapted with PPI in line with current advice on nutrition and physical activity in pregnancy. New intervention materials were devised, including a leaflet and a logbook and app for self-monitoring to be delivered alongside a brief 1:1 conversation. Behaviour change techniques (BCTs) included in the new materials were coded using a number of behavioural taxonomies. An E-learning resource was created to help standardise the approach to delivery of the intervention and avoid stigmatising conversations.
Conclusion
Following MRC guidance for the development of complex interventions alongside significant PPI allowed for the successful adaption of 10TT habit-based weight management intervention into the ‘Healthy Habits in Pregnancy and Beyond’ (HHIPBe) intervention. The feasibility and acceptability of implementing this intervention in the antenatal setting will be explored in a feasibility randomised controlled trial.
Trial Registration
This study was registered on Clinical Trials as ‘Healthy Habits in Pregnancy and Beyond (HHIPBe)’ ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04336878. The study was registered on 07/04/2020.
Zinc for GNAO1 encephalopathy: preclinical profiling and a clinical case
Authors: Larasati Yonika A. , Thiel Moritz , Koval Alexey , Silachev Denis N. , Koy Anne , Katanaev Vladimir L.
Published: January 2024

De novo mutations in GNAO1 – the gene encoding the major neuronal G-protein Gαo – cause pediatric encephalopathies largely refractory to available therapies. Zn2+ emerged to restore GTP hydrolysis and cellular interactions of pathogenic Gαo; dietary Zn2+ supplementation improves lifespan and motoric function in a Drosophila disease model. Here we show that 16 different pathogenic missense mutations cluster in three distinct groups in their responsiveness to Zn2+, and provide the safety study in a mouse disease model. We further describe treatment of a 3 years-old patient with a common GNAO1 mutation c607G > A, p.Gly203Arg with oral 50mg Zn2+ daily, as applied in Wilson’s disease. During 11 months of treatment, the patient shows cessation of daily hyperkinetic crises, improved Burke-Fahn Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale movement score and general well-being, and an excellent safety profile. Our findings warrant a large-scale clinical trial and might set the new standard of care for GNAO1 encephalopathy.
Role of Indonesian Archipelago on Global Thermohaline Circulation: Insights from Numerical Experiments
Authors: Herho Sandy , Anwar Iwan , Firdaus Gisma , Irawan Dasapta , Kapid Rubiyanto
Published: January 2024

This study employs the cGENIE Earth System Model to investigate the effects of the Indonesian Throughflow (ITF) and Indonesian Archipelago (IA) closure on global meridional thermohaline circulation (THC). Over a simulated period of 10,000 years, the analysis centers on critical variables, including surface density, vertical density profiles, global overturning circulation, and ocean ventilation age. The results reveal nuanced, non-statistically significant changes, emphasizing the regional influence of the ITF. Specifically, surface density anomalies manifest post-IA closure, notably in southern Mindanao and eastern Australia. Concurrently, anomalies in global overturning circulation indicate reduced vertical transport intensities in the Southern Ocean. While cGENIE offers valuable insights, its limitations underscore the necessity for incorporating more complex climate models. This acknowledgment underscores the ongoing imperative to refine Earth System Models for a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interactions that shape global ocean dynamics and climate.
RETRACTED: METTL14 Promotes Lipid Metabolism Reprogramming and Sustains Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Progression via Enhancing m6A Modification of ANKRD22 mRNA
Authors: Xiong Wei , Li Lvyuan , Tang Qiling , Ge Junshang , Wang Dan , Mo Yongzhen , Wang Yumin , Xiong Fang , Yan Qijia , Liao Qianjin , Guo Can , Wang Fuyan , Zhou Ming , Xiang Bo , Zeng Zhaoyang , Shi Lei , Chen Pan
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Microscale Audits and the challenges for pedestrians in residential districts of Oman
Authors: De Siqueira Gustavo , Mabry Ruth , Siyabi Huda Al , Siyabi Amal Al , Ofi Iman Al
Published: January 2024

Background:
Although countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have integrated the sustainable development agenda in their national visions. they face challenges in ensuring a livable and healthy built environment that addresses challenges of climate change and pandemic of noncommunicable diseases.
Methods:
This paper applies environmental audits to assess the microscale qualities (land use, aesthetics, pedestrian infrastructure, and safety) of residential areas of two cities in Oman, Barka and Nizwa.
Results:
The findings confirm low environmental qualities across the four subscales of the MAPs-mini in all study areas.
Conclusions:
With the rise of NCDs levels in the region, urgent action is needed to improve the quality of the built environment. Microscale attributes of the built environment have the potential to support active living while addressing the climate change challenges.
Osmotic Dehydration Kinetics of Plantain (Musa paradisiaca) using a Low-calorie Sugar
Authors: Eyembe Lobe Elias , Nde Divine Bup , Sonchieu Jean
Published: January 2024

Plantain is consumed as a stable food in most sub-Saharan countries and to some extent in southern America and Asia. To avoid deterioration of the plantain after harvest and to provide food variety, a reasonable quantity of plantain is now being transformed into flour. Osmotic dehydration (OD) is a critical step in the flour production process because it enhances the nutritional and sensory quality of the flour. There are concerns to use alternative osmotic agents to sucrose and salts to avoid their high content in the final product which have an adverse effect on the health of consumers. Suitable alternatives are low-calorie sugars (LCS) because they have low glycemic indices but which unfortunately have not been tested for the OD of plantain. The aim of this work was to study the osmotic dehydration of unripe plantain using a commonly consumed commercial LCS (Sussli) as an osmotic agent. The influence of process variables (thickness, concentration, sample/solution ratio and temperature) on mass transfer parameters; water loss (WL) and solute gain (SG) on osmotic dehydration of plantain (Musa paradisiaca) were evaluated. All parameters studied had a significant influence on weight loss and solid gain. The kinetics of the osmotic dehydration was modeled using the Azuara, Peleg and Page models. Plantain slice of thickness 5 mm, LCS solution concentration of 50% at ambient temperature (25 ± 2°C), and a sample/solution ratio of 1:10 (w/v) was judged best for osmotic treatment of plantains in LCS. Under these conditions the weight loss and solid gain were 20% and 1.73% respectively. The Peleg model best described the dehydration kinetics with the highest R2 (0.999) and the least RMSE.
Prenatal psychological distress is associated with altered placental extracellular vesicle quantity among pregnant women
Authors: Knorr Delaney A. , Yen Ying-Tzu , Zhang Ryan , Pisarska Margareta D. , Afshar Yalda , Tseng Hsian-Rong , Zhu Yazhen , Fox Molly M.
Published: January 2024

Maternal prenatal psychological distress appears to alter fetal and postnatal offspring development. However, little is known about how the placenta responds to maternal psychological distress. In order to elucidate the biomechanism behind these patterns, we investigate the relationship of psychological distress with placental extracellular vesicles (pEVs). The recently uncovered role of pEVs in cell-to-cell communication affords us the opportunity to evaluate the activity of placenta cells in vivo at the maternal-fetal interface. Here, we employ novel methods to track pEVs across pregnancy in a cohort of N = 41 pregnant Latina women. We measure prenatal anxiety and depression using self-report psychometric questionnaires and quantify pEVs using immunoaffinity capture with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G at two timepoints in early-gestation µ = 12.4 weeks (SD = 2.7) and later-gestation µ = 25.2 weeks (SD = 3.0). Using multiple linear regression models, we find both maternal anxiety (ß= -0.13; robust SE = 0.06; p-value = 0.043) and depression (ß= -0.11; robust SE = 0.05; p-value = 0.023) in early-pregnancy relate to fewer pEVs later in gestation. The association of anxiety and depression with lower pEVs suggests that maternal psychological distress may dampen placental signaling. This work elucidates part of the biological cascade that links psychological distress and adverse birth and developmental outcomes.
Explainable machine learning algorithm to identify predictors of intention to use family planning among reproductive-age women in Ethiopia: Evidence from the performance monitoring and accountability (PMA) survey 2021 dataset
Authors: Adem Jibril Bashir , Nebi Tewodros Desalegn , Walle Agmasie Damtew , Mamo Daniel Niguse , Wado Sudi Jemal , Enyew Ermias Belele , Kebede Shimels Derso
Published: January 2024

Introduction:
Approximately 225 million people in developing nations wish to delay or cease childbearing, but do not use any form of contraception. In the least developed countries, contraceptive usage was significantly lower, at 40%, and was particularly low in Africa at 33%. It is widely believed that intentions are a strong predictor of behavior, and many interventions that aim to change behavior including that targeting family planning use rely on evaluating program effectiveness through analyzing behavioral intentions. Understanding a woman's intention to use contraceptive methods is crucial in predicting and promoting the use of such methods. Therefore, this study aims to assess the determinants of intention to use family planning among reproductive age women in Ethiopia using explainable machine learning algorithm
Method
Secondary data from the cross-sectional household and female survey conducted by PMA Ethiopia in 2021 were used in the study. Using Python 3.10 version software, eight machine learning classifiers were used to predict and identify significant determinants of intention to use family planning on a weighted sample of 5993 women. Performance metrics were used to evaluate the classifiers. To smooth the data for additional analysis, data preparation techniques such as feature engineering, data splitting, handling missing values, addressing imbalanced categories, and outlier removal were used. Lastly, the greatest predictors of intention to utilize family planning were found using Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis, which further clarified the predictors' impact on the model's results.
Result
Using tenfold cross-validation and balanced training data, Random Forest revealed a performance of 77.0% accuracy and 85% areas under the curve, making it the most effective prediction model. The age at which family planning was first used, a partner or husband older than 40, being single, being Muslim, being pregnant, having previously been pregnant, needing to have more children, having a son or daughter relationship to the head of the household, and unmet needs for spacing and limiting were the top predictors of intention to use family planning, according to the SHAP analysis based on the random forest model. The research findings indicate that a range of personal and cultural factors may be taken into account when enacting health policies to enhance family planning intentions in Ethiopia. Therefore it’s highly recommended that the intention of family planning use and initiation of family planning provision should become a standard of service delivery to achieve the 2030 SDGs.
Utility of oligonucleotide in upregulating circular RNA production in a cellular model
Authors: Ni Lu , Yamada Takeshi , Nakatani Kazuhiko
Published: January 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs), are a covalently closed, single-stranded RNA without 5′- and 3′-termini, commonly stem from the exons of precursor mRNAs (pre-mRNAs). They have recently garnered interest, with studies uncovering their pivotal roles in regulating various aspects of cell functions and disease progressions. A notable feature of circRNA lies in the mechanism of its biogenesis involving a specialized form of splicing: back-splicing. A splicing process that relies on interactions between introns flanking the circularizing exon to bring the up and downstream splice sites in proximity through the formation of a prerequisite hairpin structure, allowing the spliceosomes to join the two splice sites together to produce a circular RNA molecule. Based on this mechanism, we explored the feasibility of facilitating the formation of such a prerequisite hairpin structure by utilizing a newly designed oligonucleotide, CircuLarIzation Promoting OligoNucleotide (CLIP-ON), to promote the production of circRNA in cells. CLIP-ON was designed to hybridize with and physically bridge two distal sequences in the flanking introns of the circularizing exons. The feasibility of CLIP-ON was confirmed in HeLa cells using a model pre-mRNA, demonstrating the applicability of CLIP-ON as a trans-acting modulator to upregulate the production of circRNAs in a cellular environment.
Mendelian randomization analysis reveals the mechanism of salidroside in the treatment of eosinophilic asthma
Authors: Sun jiazheng , Guo Hehua , Sun Yalu , Nie Yalan , Zhou Sirui , Zeng Yulan
Published: January 2024

Introduction:
Eosinophilic asthma (EA) is the predominant inflammatory phenotype of asthma commonly found in clinical settings. Salidroside is a phenolic glycoside molecule derived from the rhodiola plant. Furthermore, it possesses the ability to regulate apoptosis, oxidative stress, autophagy, and inflammation. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of salidroside on EA and elucidate its underlying mechanism.
Methods
The mice with asthma-like symptoms were induced using ovalbumin (OVA) and then treated with salidroside at a dosage of 50mg/kg and dexamethasone at a dosage of 1mg/kg. The effects of salidroside and dexamethasone on IgE and type 2 inflammatory cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of asthmatic mice were investigated using ELISA and qPCR. The online database provided information on the pertinent targets for salidroside-assisted EA treatment. Additionally, mendelian randomization further discovered pertinent targets for salidroside-assisted EA treatment.
Results
Salidroside demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on the expression levels of IgE and type 2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, TSLP) in model mice. The KIF3A gene, located next to the IL-4/IL-13 gene, can serve as a potential target for the therapy of EA concerning salidroside.
Conclusions
Salidroside exhibits potential as a pharmacological intervention for EA.
Investigation of the Osteogenic Effects of ICA and ICSII on Rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Yao Zhangshun , Huang Weixiang , Yang Yan , Zou Leiyan , Zhang Yunpeng , Zhang Jing , Luo Guangming
Published: January 2024

ICA (icariin) serves as the primary biologically active compound in traditional Chinese medicine Epimedium, while Icariside II (ICSII) represents one of its gastrointestinal metabolites.Although ICA and ICSII have demonstrated osteogenic differentiation- promoting effects on BMSCs, there is limited literature comparing their effects and underlying mechanisms. This study aimed to compare the osteogenic effects of Icariin and Icarisin II, along with their respective osteogenic mechanisms. In this study, we initially determined the optimal concentrations of Icariin (10− 5 mol/L) and Icariin II (10− 6 mol/L) for inducing BMSC osteogenic differentiation using CCK8, ALP activity assay, and flow apoptosis assay. Subsequently, we compared the vascularization and osteogenic capacity of the two groups through alizarin red staining assay, ELISA assay, Western Blot, and RY-PCR. Subsequently, we assessed the phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated expression of JNK, ERK1/2, p38, and AKT at different time intervals. We observed their phosphorylated expression and the expression of angiogenic/osteogenic markers after blocking with their corresponding inhibitors. It was observed that both the Icariin and Icariin II groups promoted the expression of osteogenic/angiogenic markers Runx-2, OCN, OPN, VEGF, and Ang1. While there was no significant difference in their osteogenic abilities, ICSII exhibited a stronger promotion of angiogenic differentiation markers, Ang1 and VEGF, compared to ICA. Additionally, it was observed that both ICA and ICSII could activate ERK1/2 phosphorylation, thereby further promoting the osteogenic/angiogenic differentiation of rBMSCs through the activation of the MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
Co-fermented broth of forage grasses and Chinese herbal medicines improves rumen fermentation, gastrointestinal development, and microbial community in fattening lambs
Authors: Li Yongliang , Zhang Huiwen , Guo Jianjun , Song Lianjie , Li Feng , Li Bosen , Chen Wei , Sun Xinsheng , Gao Yuhong
Published: January 2024

Digestive problems in fattening lambs have been concerned in recent years. Our study aimed to investigate the effects of a co-fermented broth (FB) from 4 forage grasses and 4 Chinese medicines on rumen fermentation, gastrointestinal development, and microbial community in lambs via in vitro and in vivo tests. In vitro fermentation of 48 h was performed to determine fermentation parameters (gas production, volatile fatty acid, ammonia nitrogen, etc.) and nutrient disappearance rate at various doses of FB supplements, and optimal doses of FB were used for in vivo test for a 120-d period. Ninety weaned lambs were assigned into 3 groups, offered FB in drinking water at 0, 1:500, and 1:1000, and fermentation characteristics, microbial community, and microstructures in rumen and jejunum were evaluated. Results showed that FB improved microbial community composition and diversity via analysis of phylum, family, and genus levels. Particularly, 1:500 FB increased abundances of Firmicutes and Muribaculaceae in rumen, and Actinomycetes and Aeriscardoviain jejunum, while decreased Euryarchaeota and Methanobrevibacter abundances. Meanwhile, FB demonstrated a positive influence in epithelial development of digestive tract, exhibiting great superficial areas of rumen papilla and jejunum villus. Our results suggested that FB supplement could contribute to fermentation and microecological balance.
Operando Identification of Carbon-confined SnOx Nanodots Dynamics during CO2-to-formate Electrolysis
Authors: Jiang Zheng , Mao Jianing , Mei Bingbao , Yang Shuai , Zeng Jianrong , Sun Fanfei , Chen Wei , Song Fei
Published: January 2024

Electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) using tin oxide-based catalysts holds significant potential for producing formate products from renewable energy, while obscurely quantification of structure changes in local configuration hinders the development of highly active and robust electrocatalysts. Herein, the operando spectroscopy revealed the quantitatively oxygen-released behavior in tin oxide nanostructure of the graphene confined SnOx nanodots (rGO@SnOx ND) under the reduction potentials, which promotes the SnOx lattice modulation by the Sn cluster and the adsorption of *OCHO intermediate by increasing the charge density. The controllable reduction degree in rGO@SnOx ND among CO2RR facilitates the excellent exceptional performance of the maximum formate partial current density of 567 mA cm−2 with 96.5 % selectivity and a 50 h long-term stability in flow-cell. These findings show that the controllable oxygen vacancies regulation determines the yield of formate, further emphasizing the importance of operando spectrosopy characterization to understand the dynamic surface structure-performance relationship.
Efficacy of the PermaNet Dual compared to the Interceptor G2 and the PermaNet 3.0 in experimental huts in Siaya County, western Kenya.
Authors: Ogutu Nashon , Agumba Silas , Moshi Vincent , Ouma Collins , Ramaita Edith , Kariuki Lenson , Gimnig John E. , Abong’o Bernard , Ochomo Eric
Published: January 2024

Pyrethroid-chlorfenapyr nets have shown significant epidemiological impact over pyrethroid-only and pyrethroid plus piperonal-butoxide (PBO) in Africa. Here we describe a non-inferiority evaluation of PermaNet Dual, a new chlorfenapyr plus deltamethrin net, compared to Interceptor G2, in experimental huts in Siaya, Kenya against free-flying pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles funestus. Mosquitoes were assessed for blood feeding and then monitored for immediate knockdown 1-hour post collection and delayed mortality after 72 hours. Mortality at 72 hours was 37% for the control net, 56% for PermaNet 3.0, 66% for the Interceptor G2 and 68% for the PermaNet Dual. Blood feeding inhibition was highest with PermaNet 3.0 at 49%, and least with PermaNet Dual at 12%. PermaNet Dual and Interceptor G2 had no significant differences in mortality (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.00–1.20) or blood feeding inhibition (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.04–1.33) and the lower confidence bounds were within the non-inferiority margins. PermaNet Dual was non-inferior to the Interceptor G2 and superior to the PermaNet 3.0 nets in causing mortality but inferior to PermaNet 3.0 in blood feeding inhibition of the vectors. PermaNet Dual met the WHO criteria for non-inferiority to Interceptor G2 and may be considered for deployment for public health use against pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles vectors of malaria.
Novel meriolin derivatives potently inhibit cell cycle progression and transcription in leukemia and lymphoma cells via inhibition of cyclin- dependent kinases (CDKs)
Authors: Wesselborg Sebastian , Schmitt Laura , Hoppe Julia , Cea-Medina Pablo , Peter-Martin Bruch , Krings Karina S. , Hinxlage Ilka , Drießen Daniel , Peter Christoph , Bhatia Sanil , Dietrich Sascha , Stork Björn , Gohlke Holger , Fritz Gerhard , Müller Thomas
Published: January 2024

A fundamental aspect of cancer is the dysregulation of cell cycle control, which is associated with selective, aberrant activation of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK). Consequently, targeting CDKs represents an attractive therapeutical approach for cancer therapy. Pan-CDK inhibitors block the cell cycle and inhibit proliferation, but their major drawback is the lack of selectivity and high toxicity in healthy tissues. Therefore, there is a demand for the development of new bioactive molecules with anticancer properties, such as the compound class of Meriolins. Meriolins are a semisynthetic compound class derived from Meridianins and Variolins with a known CDK inhibitory potential. Here, we analyzed the two novel derivatives Meriolin 16 and Meriolin 36 in comparison to other potent CDK inhibitors and could show that they displayed a high cytotoxic potential in different lymphoma and leukemia cell lines as well as in primary patient-derived lymphoma and leukemia cells. In a kinome screen, we identified that Meriolin 16 and 36 prevalently inhibited most of the CDKs (such as CDK1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20). In drug-to-target modeling studies, we predicted a common binding mode of Meriolin 16 and 36 to the ATP-pocket of CDK2 and an additional flipped binding for Meriolin 36. We could show that cell cycle progression and proliferation were blocked due to the abolished phosphorylation of the main CDK2 target Retinoblastoma protein at Ser612 and Thr821. Moreover, Meriolin 16 prevented the CDK9-mediated phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II at Ser2 which is crucial for transcription initiation. This renders both meriolin derivatives as valuable anticancer drugs as they target three different Achilles' heels of the tumor: (i) inhibition of cell cycle progression and proliferation, (ii) prevention of transcription, and (iii) induction of cell death.
Biomarkers of early-stage Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Fang Lulu , Huo Shaohu , Ding Zhenyu , Li Wenhong , Li Wenli , Lin Kang , Shen Bing , Wang Linding , Zhu Yulin , shengang Ding
Published: January 2024

Background
Early recognition of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection and the severity of M. pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) are difficult to ascertain because early signs of infection are atypical, with no obvious clinical manifestations or imaging characteristics. The inability to diagnosis early-stage MPP delays treatment and increases risks of progression to refractory MPP or severe pneumonia.
Methods
Here, we used a mouse model of MPP to investigate whether levels of S100 proteins or inflammatory factors in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) could be useful biomarkers of M. pneumoniae infection or MPP severity. The contents of S100A8, S100A9, Interleukin (IL)-6, and TNF-α in serum and BALF obtained from M. pneumoniae-infected mice were measure using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Hematoxylin-eosin staining used to judge the severity of MPP showed lung tissue with obvious lesions. TUNEL staining indicated apoptosis in lung tissue of M. pneumoniae-infected mice.
Results
The serum levels of S100A8 in the high-dose group were higher on days 3 and 5 than those in the low-dose group. The serum levels of S100A9 in the infection group were higher on days 1 and 3 than those in the control group. Serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in the M. pneumoniae-infected groups than those in the control group. S100A8/A9 levels in BALF derived from mice receiving the high dose of M. pneumoniae were significantly higher than those in the control group.The BALF levels of TNF-α in the high-dose group were higher on days 1 and 3 than those in the control group.The levels of IL-6 in the high-dose group were higher than those in the control group and those in the low-dose group. The degree of apoptosis in both high- and low-dose groups was higher than that in the control groups, the degree of apoptosis in the high-dose group was higher on day 3 than that in the low-dose group.
Conclusion
These finding suggest that serum and BALF S100A8/A9 and TNF-α levels may be useful for early diagnosis of MPP and for differentiating MPP severity.
The Association Between Body Fat Composition and Prostate Specific Antigen in Older Adults
Authors: He Yixuan , Sun Qin , Li Jie , Kang Weiming
Published: January 2024

Background: The measurement of serum PSA concentrations has been a crucial tool for prostate cancer screening for several decades. Obesity has been shown to affect PSA in various ways. This study aims to examine the relationship between PSA and precise indicators of obesity and fat distribution, including total percent fat (TPF), android percent fat (APF), and gynoid percent fat (GPF).
Methods: This study included 1870 participants with detailed adiposity data and complete PSA concentration data from NHANES 2001-2010. Total PSA mass was calculated using the estimated plasma volume. The cohort was divided into two age groups (40-60 and ≥ 60 years) to investigate age differences. Multivariable linear regression was performed to explore the correlation between factors.
Results：Fat content and distribution (TPF, APF GPF) showed almost no relationship with PSA concentration, regardless of stratification. After stratification for age, a statistically significant positive correlation was observed between total PSA mass and TPF, APF, and GPF in the younger group (TPF: β=0.06 p=0.0049; APF: β=0.04 p=0.0186; GPF: β=0.05 p=0.0111), which disappeared in the older group and was replaced by a negative correlation.
Conclusion: In this cross-sectional study based on the 2001-2010 NAHNES population, no association was found between adiposity and distribution with serum PSA concentrations. However, a positive association was found between total PSA mass and adiposity in the 40-60 age group, which was not observed in the ≥ 60 age group. This relationship requires further investigation as no definite explanation has been established.
Translation and Psychometric Evaluation of the Persian Version of the Nurses' Quality of Life Scale: A Validation Study in Iran
Authors: Yousefnezhad Mehrdad , Shareinia Habib , Kheirkhah Elahe Lal , Sajjadi Moosa
Published: January 2024

Background The quality of life for nurses can be significantly impacted by various occupational factors that Influence their working conditions and professional performance. The current study aimed to translate and validate the Persian version of the Nurses' Quality of Life Scale.
Material and method In this methodological research, the Nurses' Quality of Life Scale (NQOLS) was utilized to assess the quality of life among 500 employed nurses in hospitals in the cities of Gonabad and Sabzevar. The translation process of the NQOLS followed the model proposed by Wild et al. The content validity of the Persian version of the scale was evaluated using the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR). Structural validity was assessed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, while test-retest reliability was determined using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26 and LISREL version 8.8 software.
Results The exploratory factor analysis of the Persian version of NQOLS revealed six factors that accounted for 62.15% of the total variance. The structural validity of the extracted factors was confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient and ICC for the entire questionnaire were 0.91 and 0.95, respectively.
Conclusion The findings of the present study suggest that the Persian version of the NQOLS exhibits sufficient validity and reliability. Therefore, it can be used as an effective tool for measuring and examining the quality of life among nurses in Iran.
Optimizing Anomaly Detection in Smart Grids with Modified FDA and Dilated GRU-based Adaptive Residual RNN
Authors: Scholar Ravinder , (Senior) Vikram Kulkarni Assistant  professor
Published: January 2024

The integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) into the conventional power grid defines a smart grid, overseeing electrical power distribution, generation, and utilization. Despite its benefits, the smart grid encounters communication challenges due to various abnormalities. Detecting these anomalies is crucial for identifying power outages, energy theft, equipment failure, structural faults, power consumption irregularities, and cyber-attacks. While power systems adeptly handle natural disturbances, discerning cyber-attack-induced anomalies proves complex. This paper introduces an intelligent deep learning approach for smart grid anomaly detection. Initially, data is collected from standard smart meter, weather, and user behavior sources. Optimal weighted feature selection, utilizing the Modified Flow Direction Algorithm (MFDA), precedes inputting selected features into the "Adaptive Residual Recurrent Neural Network with Dilated Gated Recurrent Unit (ARRNN-DGRU)" for anomaly identification. Simulation results affirm the model's superior performance, with a heightened detection rate compared to existing methods, bolstering the smart grid system's robustness.
Polyiodides of amino acids. L-Proline triiodides
Authors: Giester Gerald , Ghazaryan Vahram V. , Zatikyan Ashkhen L. , Petrosyan Aram M.
Published: January 2024

Two new salts of l-proline containing triiodide anions were obtained and investigated: (l-ProH···l-Pro)(I3) (I) and [(l-ProH)3(l-Pro)](I3)3 (II). Both compounds crystallize in the polar monoclinic space group P21. Crystal structure determinations showed that (I) contains a dimeric cation formed by an O-H···O hydrogen bond with an O···O distance of 2.458(4) Å, while (II) features a peculiar tetrameric cation [l-ProH···(l-Pro-H-l-Pro)···l-ProH], where (l-Pro-H-l-Pro) is a pseudocentrosymmetric dimer with a very short hydrogen bond with an O···O distance of 2.427 Å. Infrared spectra of both crystals were registered and interpreted based on their structures. Electronic band structures were determined by quantum chemical calculations. The CASTEP code was used to calculate the band structures, total and partial density of states (TDOS, PDOS). Bandgaps were also measured by the diffuse reflectance method.
Risk factors for healthcare-associated infections and antimicrobial use: indicators from a national dataset
Authors: Garlasco Jacopo , D’Ambrosio Angelo , Vicentini Costanza , Quattrocolo Francesca , Zotti Carla
Published: January 2024

Background.
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) represent a major threat in Europe. Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are crucial to lower their occurrence, as well as antimicrobial stewardship to ensure appropriate use of antibiotics. Starting from Italian national data, this study aimed at describing IPC indicators and outcomes related to HAIs and antimicrobial use in Italy, and estimating effects of IPC variables on HAI prevalence and on the proportion of antibiotics without specific reason.
Methods.
Based on data collected for Italy during the ECDC PPS-2 Point Prevalence Survey, descriptive statistics were computed at national and macro-regional level. Causal assumption-informed regression models were then built to estimate the impact of structural determinants, staffing parameters and IPC-related variables on HAI prevalence and percentage of antibiotic prescriptions with no reason detailed on medical records, after adjusting for relevant confounders.
Results.
The Italian frame showed substantial heterogeneity for both outcomes between macro-regions. The percentage of single-bed rooms was the only structural determinant with significant, positive impact on HAI prevalence (OR = 0.91 for every + 5%, p < 0.001), while the prevalence of antimicrobial agents without specified reason was lower in the presence of one more IPC nurse (OR = 0.78, p < 0.001) or one more antibiotic consultant (OR = 0.67, p < 0.001) per 100 beds. Both outcomes were reduced in the presence of routinely filed IPC plans and reports (p < 0.001), HAI prevention measures (p < 0.001) and post-prescription review (p < 0.01).
Conclusions.
Our model confirmed the pivotal role of IPC measures and antimicrobial stewardship in contrasting HAIs and inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions. Post-prescription review appeared to be a valuable indicator of antimicrobial stewardship policies.