bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RANKL/RANK signaling recruits Tregs via CCL20/CCR6 pathway and promotes stemness and metastasis in colorectal cancers
Authors: Zhu Chengming , Ouyang Jing , Hu Shuang , Zhu Qingqing , Kang Tingting , Xie Wenlin , Wang Yun , Li Yan , Lu Yingsi , Qi Jinhua , Li Chenxin , Yang Yingqian , Sun Yazhou , Gao Tianshun , Ye Liping , Liang Qian , Pan Yihang
Published: February 2024

TNF receptor superfamily member 11a (TNFRSF11a, RANK) and its ligand TNF superfamily member 11 (TNFRSF11, RANKL) are overexpressed in a number of malignancies. The clinical importance of RANKL/RANK in colorectal cancer (CRC) is, however, mainly unknown. We examined CRC patient samples and found that RANKL/RANK was elevated in CRC tissues as compared to nearby normal tissues. A higher RANKL/RANK expression was related with a worse survival rate. Furthermore, we found that RANKL is mostly produced by regulatory T cells (Tregs), which can promote CRC advancement. Overexpression of RANK or addition of RANKL significantly increased the stemness and migration of CRC cells. Furthermore, RANKL/RANK signaling stimulates C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20) production by CRC cells, which leads to Treg recruitment, boosting tumor stemness and malignant progression. This recruitment process was accomplished by using CCL20-CCR6 interaction, demonstrating a connection between CRC cells and immune cells. These findings suggest that RANKL/RANK plays an important role in CRC progression and could be a potential target for CRC prevention and therapy.
Extraction and physical characterization of a novel cellulosic fiber derived from the bark of daphne Gnidium plant
Authors: Issasfa Brahim , Latreche Ameur , Guebailia Moussa , Aloui Amel
Published: February 2024

The primary aim of this research is to develop a method for extracting fibers from the bark of the Daphne Gnidium shrub for use in various fields, such as paper manufacturing and reinforcing composite materials with plant fibers. These plant fibers have gained significant attention and are increasingly utilized in automotive, infrastructure, and renewable material-based sectors. Following the extraction of Daphne Gnidium bark fibers using the method outlined in this study, we analyzed their morphological, chemical, and physical properties in samples of the biofibers, locally known as Lazaz. The characteristics (physical, chemical, and morphological structure) revealed in this research align with numerous other studies, particularly in terms of density. We also consider the economic and environmental contexts of local natural products in Algeria, prompting us to undertake comprehensive studies in the environmental field to identify new types of useful plants that can contribute to technological development.
WITHDRAWN: Creating Highly Efficient Stretchable OLEDs with Nanowavy Structures for Angle-Independent Narrow Band Emission
Authors: Suh Min Chul , Nimbalkar Ajay , Irfan Aqsa
Published: February 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors as it was submitted and made public without the full consent of all the authors. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Optimal Cut-off Value of Ultrasound Double Contour Sign Combined with Serum Uric Acid in Gout
Authors: Wu Jinyu , Liu Shanna , Yan Junliang , Chang Jie , Fei Shiyin , Wu Xuan , Shi Jianing , Li Chang , Xia Bin , Zhou Qingli , Zhu Xinjian
Published: February 2024

Objectives. We searched for the optimal cut-off value of the ultrasound double contour (DC) sign and the value of the DC sign combined with serum uric acid (SUA) for diagnosing gout.
Methods. Gout patients, rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis patients (RA/OA group), and healthy individuals were included in this study based on the inclusion criteria. SUA and the length of the DC sign in the knee and were detected and compared. The optimal cut-off values for diagnosing gout by DC sign and SUA were analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. We also plotted the ROC curve to compare the value of the ultrasound DC sign, SUA, and DC sign combined with SUA (in parallel and in series).
Results.In this study, we included 330 subjects (n = 110 in the gout group, 110 in the RA/OA group, and 110 in the healthy control group). The optimal cut-off value of the DC sign for the diagnosis of gout was 1.67 cm. The results of the ROC curve analysis showed that the DC sign in parallel SUA had the highest diagnostic value (1.67 cm), which was higher than the value recorded in combined detection based on the presence or absence of the DC sign.
Conclusions. The optimal cut-off value of the ultrasound DC sign for diagnosing gout was 1.67 cm; below this cut-off value, the DC sign in parallel SUA had the highest diagnostic value for gout and provided a reliable basis for the efficient diagnosis of gout.
Migration of Cervical Spine Screws to the Sacral Canal: A Case Report
Authors: Fang Miao , Zeng Yong , Song Yueming
Published: February 2024

Cervical open door laminoplasty is widely used in multilevel decompression, which is a motion-sparing decompression treatment option for multilevel cervical myelopathy. Implant distance migration in cervical laminoplasty has not been reported. A 61-year-old woman underwent cervical laminoplasty, three months postoperatively, she experienced left shoulder pain and left upper limb pain, and underwent cervical magnetic resonance imaging, which showed no abnormalities. She gradually developed dizziness, headache, unstable walking, incomplete urinary incontinence, and fluctuating neck lumps. The X-ray showed that the screws of the C7 lateral mass had disappeared and migrated to the sacral canal. The patient underwent cerebrospinal leakage repair and removal of the screws in the spinal canal. Displacement of fixators implanted into the spinal canal after cervical laminoplasty is a rare complication that can cause permanent neurological injury.
Hepatitis B virus infection and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: a birth cohort study in Lanzhou, China
Authors: Li Wei , Meng Zhaoyan , Da Zhenqiang , Zhao Yue , Wang Fang , Yang Tao , Liu Qing
Published: February 2024

Background: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) has been confirmed to have a clear influence on pregnancy outcome. This study is aimed at investigating the correlation between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and ICP, and confirming whether HBV infection may aggravate the adverse fetal or maternal outcomes of ICP.
Methods: A birth cohort study was conducted from 2010–2012 at Gansu Provincial Maternity & Child Care Hospital in Lanzhou, China. A total of 10,536 pregnant women without chronic hepatopathy were enrolled. HBV infection was defined by the presence of hepatitis B virus antigens (HBsAg) positive.
Results: 259 (2.46%) women were diagnosed with ICP and it was observed that maternal HBV infection increased the risk of ICP (OR:1.95, 95%CI:1.17-3.24). Compared to non-ICP with HBV negative women, ICP with HBV positive women were more likely to have postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) (p=0.019), caesarean section(p<0.0001), and preterm birth(p<0.0001). When ICP was combined with HBV infection, after adjusting for influencing factors, the risk of PPH was increased compared with ICP with HBV negative (OR: 6.65, 95%CI: 1.30-33.95), non-ICP with HBV positive (OR: 11.16, 95%CI: 1.83-68.18), or non-ICP with HBV negative (OR: 10.12, 95%CI: 2.72-37.67).
Conclusions: Our study supports the hypothesis that HBV infection increases the risk of ICP. Furthermore, it indicates that ICP combined with HBV infection substantially increases PPH risk.
CircMTDH promotes the development of gastric cancer and the mechanism
Authors: Hu Feng , Zhu Yonggang , Ma Zhanchuan , Zhang Manli , Meng Qingqing , Zhang Xiuna , Liu Guangming , Rao Min
Published: February 2024

Gastric cancer (GC), with high incidence and mortality, is one of the deadliest cancers, significantly impacting human health and imposing a huge socioeconomic burden. This disease is usually found at a later period due to lacking effective early diagnostic methods, leading to poor treatment outcomes and prognosis. Therefore, exploring effective biomarkers is crucial for a definite diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Circular RNA (circRNA) has been found to have significant effects during the generation and progression of GC, presenting a potential to be developed as early diagnostic markers for this disease. This study identified a circular RNA named circMTDH, that with a significantly higher expression in GC patients’ tissues and cells, which is closely related to the tumor size. Further investigation unveiled that circMTDH promotes GC development through circMTDH/miR-1287-5p/paxillin (PXN) axle. Exactly, circMTDH promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer cells by modulating the levels of miR-1287-5p and PXN expression. On the other hand, circMTDH expedites the development of tumors in mice by accelerating macrophages to polarize from M0 to M2. These findings indicate that circMTDH holds promise as a diagnostic biomarker, assisting in GC treatment and prognosis assessment.
Surface Defect Detection of Printed Circuit Board With Large Kernel Convolutional Networks
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Huang Jialong , DIPU MD SHARID KAYES , Gao Shangbing , Zhang Haiyan , Zhou Liguo , Abdullahi Hauwa Suleiman
Published: February 2024

The defect detection of printed circuit boards (PCBs) is a crucial step in the production process. Defects usually appear in small sizes, thus image data needs to be obtained using high-resolution camera equipment, which leads to the model requirement to process high-resolution images. In addition, there is an imbalance issue in defect categories. In order to have a more efficient and accurate PCB defect detection method in the production process,we propose the Residual Large Convolutional Network (ResLCNet) as the backbone of YOLOv5. This article draws inspiration from the application of Transformers in the field of vision and finds that using large convolution kernels instead of a bunch of traditional 3x3 small convolution kernels is a more powerful standard. In traditional concepts, large convolutions require a lot of computation and consume a lot of resources. However, through efficient convolutional network structure optimization methods, we can make large kernel convolutions more powerful, and at the same time, large kernel networks integrate some advantages of kernel methods and can adaptively learn feature representations of data, thereby shortening the distance between CNN and Transformers. After training and testing on the PCB defect dataset, our method achieved an average mAP value of 95.6% after multiple experiments, which is 1.2% higher than the original YOLOv5. The large kernel network proposed in this article reduces background interference to a certain extent and has high accuracy, providing ideas for using large convolutional kernels as the backbone to improve the accuracy of industrial defect detection in the future.Code & models at https://github.com/hjllovecv/Yolov5-ResCL
Genomic analysis of a spontaneous unifoliate mutant reveals gene candidates associated with compound leaf development in Vigna unguiculata [L] Walp
Authors: Edet Offiong Ukpong , Ubi Benjamin Ewa , Ishii Takayoshi
Published: February 2024

Molecular mechanisms which underpin compound leaf development in some legumes have been reported, but there is no previous study on the molecular genetic control of compound leaf formation in Vigna unguiculata (cowpea), an important dryland legume of African origin. In most studied species with compound leaves, the expression of class 1 KNOTTED-LIKE HOMEOBOX genes in developing leaf primordia sustains morphogenetic activity, thus inhibiting cell differentiation. Other genes, such as, SINGLE LEAFLET1 in Medicago truncatula and Trifoliate in Solanum lycopersicum, are also implicated in regulating compound leaf patterning. To set the pace for an in-depth understanding of the genetics of compound leaf development in cowpea, we used RNA-seq and whole genome shotgun sequence datasets of a spontaneous cowpea unifoliate mutant and its trifoliate wild-type cultivar to conduct comparative reference-based gene expression, de novo genome-wide isoform switch, and genome variant analyses between the two genotypes. Our results suggest that genomic variants upstream of LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL and down-stream of REVEILLE4, BRASSINOSTERIOD INSENSITIVE1 and LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES result in down-regulation of key components of cowpea circadian rhythm central oscillator and brassinosteriod signaling, resulting in unifoliate leaves and brassinosteriod-deficient-like phenotypes. We have stated hypotheses that will guide follow-up studies expected to provide more insights.
Unveiling the Hidden Role of SNRPB2 in HCC: A Promising Target for Therapy
Authors: Guo Jiaxing , Li Lingshu , Wang Haiyan , Gao Zhenqin , Shen Chanjuan , Yan Bokang
Published: February 2024

Background: SNRPB2, a spliceosome component, is well known to participate in the pre-splicing of mRNA and plays a crucial role in the progression of several cancers. However, its precise effect on HCC remains unexplored.
Methods: Bioinformatics analysis was carried out using TCGA, GTEx, GEO, HPA, CPTAC, Kaplan-Meier plotter, RNAactDrug, and R Studio.The level of SNRPB2 expression in HCC was validated via RT-qPCR, western blot, and IHC. Functional experiments, including CCK8, transwell, and colony formation assays, as well as nude mouse xenograft model, were employed for the purpose of in vitro and in vivo validation. IHC, CCK8, colony formation assays, and measurements of GSH, lipid ROS, and ferrous iron were performed to evaluate the impact of SNRPB2 on the ferroptosis of HCC cells. Databases including miRDB, miRWalk, Targetscan, miRabel, CancerMIRNome, and ENCORI, correlation analysis, RT-qPCR, and luciferase reporter assays were employed to identify the ceRNA regulatory axis of SNRPB2. Sorafenib resistant HepG2 cell line was developed to examine the effect of SNRPB2 on sorafenib resistance.
Results: Here, we demonstrate that high level of SNRPB2 is significantly associated with poor outcomes in HCC patients. Additionally, inhibiting SNRPB2 may accelerate ferroptosis, thereby suppressing HCC tumor development. Moreover, SNRPB2 is regulated by the SNHG4/miR-204-5p axis, and increased SNHG4 could reverse the effect of SNRPB2 knockdown. Finally, SNRPB2 deficiency increases the sorafenib sensitivity of HCC cells.
Conclusion: Conclusively, our study uncovers the previously unknown role of SNRPB2 in HCC, reveals the related ceRNA regulatory axis of SNRPB2, and identifies a novel ferroptosis regulating protein, suggesting SNRPB2 appears to be a promising target for HCC therapy.
Nitazoxanide controls virus viability through its impact on membrane bioenergetics
Authors: Hammad Noureddine , Ransy Celine , Pinson Benoit , Talmasson Jeremy , Bréchot Christian , Rossignol Jean François , Bouillaud Frédéric
Published: February 2024

Viruses are dependent on cellular energy metabolism for their replication, and the drug nitazoxanide (Alinia) was shown to interfere with both processes. Nitazoxanide is an uncoupler of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Our hypothesis was that mitochondrial uncoupling underlies the antiviral effects of nitazoxanide. Tizoxanide (the active metabolite of nitazoxanide), its derivative RM4848 and the uncoupler CCCP were applied to a virus-releasing cell line to obtain the same increasing levels of mitochondrial uncoupling, hence identical interference with OXPHOS. A decrease in infectious viral particle release was observed and reflected the intensity of interference with OXPHOS, irrespective of the nature of the drug. The antiviral effect was significant although the impact on OXPHOS was modest (≤ 25%), and disappeared when a high concentration (25 mM) of glucose was used to enhance glycolytic generation of ATP. Accordingly, the most likely explanation is that moderate interference with mitochondrial OXPHOS induced rearrangement of ATP use and acquisition of infective properties of the viral particles be highly sensitive to this rearrangement. The antiviral effect of nitazoxanide has been supported by clinical trials, and nitazoxanide is considered a safe drug. However, serious adverse effects of the uncoupler dinitrophenol occurred when used to increase significantly metabolic rate with the purpose of weight loss. In addition, dinitrophenol is known to interfere with mitochondrial ATP transport while we demonstrate that nitazoxanide does not. Taken together, while impairment of mitochondrial bioenergetics is an unwanted drug effect, moderate interference should be considered as a basis for therapeutic efficacy.
Integrated-analysis of single-cell RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq reveals MMP-mediated expression patterns by distinct tumor microenvironment immune profiles in cervical cancer
Authors: Wang He , Li Xinbo , Zhou Siyu , Guo Wendi , Wang Zhao , Sun Linlin , Zhao Zhongyi , Zhang Sanyuan , Ping Yi , Wang Zhe
Published: February 2024

Background
Few studies have analyzed the effect of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression patterns on the tumor microenvironment (TME) during development of cervical cancer (CC).
Methods
We elucidated the landscape and score of MMP expression in CC using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and RNA sequencing datasets. Further, we aimed the MMPscore to probe the infiltration of immune cells. Further, MMP expression was measured by quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR).
Results
We found MMPs were cell-type specific expressed in diverse types of CC cells, regulating the relative pathways of CC progression. Two distinct MMP expression patterns that associated infiltrated tumor microenvironment (TME) were identified. We discovered MMP expression patterns can predict the stage of tumor, subtype, stromal activity in the TME, genetic variation, and patient outcome. Patients with high MMPscore benefited from significantly better treatment and clinical outcomes.
Conclusion
These results indicate high MMPscore in diverse cell types may regulate immune response and improve the survival of patients with CC, which assist in developing more effective immunization strategies.
Treating reverse osmosis brine of petrochemical wastewater using preparative vertical-flow electrophoresis (PVFE) with multi-objective optimization by response surface method
Authors: Chen Rongbo , Tian Tian , Jin Ruofei , Liu Ze , Fu Wang , Ji Qiuyan , Zhou Jiti
Published: February 2024

Recovering salts from reverse osmosis (RO) brine has long been a major concern in the field of industrial wastewater treatment. To address this issue, this study implemented a preparative vertical-flow electrophoresis (PVFE) system to treat the RO brine from petrochemical wastewater. Additionally, the response surface method was utilized to optimize the operational parameters related to acid-base production and energy consumption. The results demonstrated that the PVFE could efficiently recover acids and bases from the brine at electric field strengths ranging from 89.37 V/m to 185.08 V/m. The electric field strength was found more influential than the flow rate in terms of both acid/base concentration and energy consumption during the treatment. By applying the central composite design methodology, the optimized operating parameters led to a significant reduction in energy consumption for acid and base production, with a decrease of 254.81% and 168.67% respectively, compared to the original operating parameters. However, it is worth noting that the base and acid concentrations were also reduced by 71.91% and 104.97% respectively. As a result, there was a trade-off between the recovered acid-base concentration and energy consumption. These findings provide a directed and practical solution for recycling waste salt resources from RO brine.
A phosphorylation switch of Huluwa receptor for embryonic axis induction
Authors: Chen Jing , Li Yao , Yan Yun , Gong Bo , Zheng Qianwen , Zhou Haiyan , Sun Jiarui , Wang Zhao , Li Yaohui , Wan Yunjing , Chen Weixi , Qi Shiqian , Mo Xianming , Xiang Bo , Meng Anming
Published: February 2024

Embryonic axis formation is essential for patterning and morphogenesis in vertebrates and is tightly regulated by the dorsal organizer. Previously, we demonstrated that maternally derived Huluwa (Hwa) acts as a dorsal determinant, dictating axis formation by activating β-catenin signaling in zebrafish and Xenopus. However, the mechanism of activation and fine regulation of the Hwa receptor remain unclear. In a systematic mutation screen, a mutation at the 168th serine (Ser168) in the PPNSP motif of Hwa dramatically abolished its axis-inducing activity. Mechanistically, mutating the Ser168 residue reduced its binding affinity to Tankyrase 1/2 and the degradation of the Axin protein, weakening β-catenin signaling activation. Furthermore, the Ser168 site was confirmed to be phosphorylated via LC-MS/MS and immunoblotting with a phosphorylation-specific antibody. Additionally, several kinases, including Cdk16, Cdk2, and GSK3β, were found to enhance Ser168 phosphorylation in vitro and in vivo, enhancing Hwa's activity in β-catenin signaling and axis induction. Meanwhile, the use of dominant-negative Cdk16 and pHwa (Ser168) antibodies reduced Hwa's function. In summary, Ser168 acts as a phosphorylation switch in Hwa/β-catenin signaling for embryonic axis induction, involving multiple kinases to ensure developmental robustness.
Severe Cutaneous Manifestation of Malignant Syphilis in a Patient with Behçet’s Uveitis: A case report
Authors: Charoenphol Pulthip , Choopong Pitipol , Sitthinamsuwan Panitta , Leeyaphan Charussri , Rujitharanawong Chuda , Boonsopon Sutasinee , Tesavibul Nattaporn , Tungsattayathitthan Usanee
Published: February 2024

Background
Syphilis exhibits a wide range of clinical presentations, mimicking various systemic and ocular diseases. Ocular syphilis, in particular, manifests with multiple presentations, ranging from anterior uveitis to panuveitis, making it a potential differential diagnosis for Behçet uveitis. Here, we present a unique case of Behçet panuveitis that was undergoing immunomodulatory therapy and was complicated by ocular syphilis. Notably, this case also featured rare cutaneous manifestations associated with secondary syphilis, commonly known as malignant syphilis.
Case presentation
A 38-year-old Thai man with refractory end-stage Behçet panuveitis reported a maculopapular rash accompanied by increased intraocular inflammation. The escalation of immunomodulatory therapy, intended to manage the provisional diagnosis of active ocular and cutaneous Behçet’s disease, resulted in clinical deterioration, with the rash transforming into multiple noduloulcerative lesions. Syphilis infection was eventually diagnosed based on positive serological tests and the presence of spirochetes observed in a skin biopsy specimen. The patient was treated with intravenous penicillin G, resulting in an improvement in intraocular inflammation and resolution of noduloulcerative rashes.
Conclusions
Intraocular inflammation and mucocutaneous lesions in syphilis can mimic the presentation of Behçet’s disease. The introduction of immunomodulatory therapy may alter the clinical picture, leading to a severe and atypical presentation. A high index of suspicion for reevaluating serologic tests or performing tissue biopsies is warranted for an accurate diagnosis.
Optimized Resource Allocation Algorithm for IoT Healthcare Model with Deadline Aware
Authors: El-Bahnasawy Nirmeen A. , EL-Nattat Amal , El-Sayed Ayman , Elkazzaz Sahar
Published: February 2024

In recent years, healthcare market is growing very fast and dealing with huge amount of data. Healthcare applications are time sensitive which needs quick responses with lesser delays. For this aim, fog computing (FC) was introduced. It can be applied in various application areas like healthcare, smart and intelligent environments, VANETs, etc. Technologies as cloud computing (CC), FC, and Internet of things (IoT) can be used to provide an effective environment for sharing data between customers efficiently. Fog is an extension of cloud which can overcome the latency issues in case of huge amount of data are generated. Reducing the number of delays and increasing the system efficiency is the real motivation of using FC in healthcare. In this paper we have proposed a Task Classification algorithm based on Deadline and Criticality (TCDC) for healthcare applications in fog environment. The simulation results showed that proposed algorithm can improve the performance and QoS parameters.
Postbiotics from Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation stabilize microbiota in rumen liquid digesta during grain-based subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) in lactating dairy cows
Authors: Guo Junfei , Zhang Zhengxiao , Leluo Guan , Yoon Ilkyu , Plaizier Kees , Khafipour Ehsan
Published: February 2024

Background
Subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is a common metabolic disorder of high yielding dairy cows, and it is associated with dysbiosis of the rumen and gut microbiome and host inflammation. This study evaluated the impact of two postbiotics from Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) on rumen liquid associated microbiota of lactating dairy cows subjected to repeated grain-based SARA challenges. A total of 32 rumen cannulated cows were randomly assigned to four treatments from 4 wk before until 12 wk after parturition. Treatment groups included a Control diet or diets supplemented with postbiotics (SCFPa, 14 g/d Original XPC; SCFPb-1X, 19 g/d NutriTek; SCFPb-2X, 38 g/d NutriTek, Diamond V, Cedar Rapids, IA). Grain-based SARA challenges were conducted during wk 5 (SARA1) and wk 8 (SARA2) after parturition by replacing 20% DM of the base total mixed ration (TMR) with pellets containing 50% ground barley and 50% ground wheat. Total DNA from rumen liquid samples was subjected to V3-V4 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Characteristics of rumen microbiota were compared among treatments and SARA stages.
Results
Both SARA challenges reduced the diversity and richness of rumen liquid microbiota, altered the overall composition (β-diversity), and its predicted functionality including carbohydrates and amino acids metabolic pathways. The SARA challenges also reduced the number of significant associations among different taxa, number of hub taxa and their composition in the microbial co-occurrence networks. Supplementation with SCFP postbiotics, in particular SCFPb-2X, enhanced the robustness of the rumen microbiota. The SCFP supplemented cows had less fluctuation in relative abundances of community members when exposed to SARA challenges. The SCFP supplementation promoted the populations of lactate utilizing and fibrolytic bacteria, including members of Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae, and also increased the numbers of hub taxa during non-SARA and SARA stages. Supplementation with SCFPb-2X prevented the fluctuations in the abundances of hub taxa that were positively correlated with the acetate concentration, and 𝛼- and β-diversity metrics in rumen liquid digesta.
Conclusions
Induction of SARA challenges disrupted rumen liquid microbiota of lactating dairy cows and supplementation with SCFP postbiotics could attenuate adverse effects of SARA on rumen liquid microbiota.
Breastfeeding Situation has been Consistently Challenging - Based on the Survey Data Analysis of a Certain Community in Western China in 2017
Authors: Li Yinlan , Qiao Bin , Li Baoqi , Wang Bo , Jiang Hong , Liu Yanxiang
Published: February 2024

Background
Due to economic and cultural differences, breastfeeding rates in western China are not optimistic and few studies have been conducted, so it is essential to investigate the level of breastfeeding rates in this region and analyse the reasons for this.
Aim
To investigate the current status of exclusive breastfeeding for infants aged 0–6 months and the factors influencing it in a community in western China, and to provide evidence for improving breastfeeding rates in western China.
Methods
From January to October 2017, a questionnaire survey was conducted among 757 mothers of infants in a community in western China. Statistical descriptions were used to analyse the current status of breastfeeding, and chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were used to explore its influencing factors.
Findings:
The rate of exclusive breastfeeding among infants aged 0–6 months in the local area was 20.53%, which is lower than the national average and the international average. Factors such as maternal milk secretion, pregnancy complications, nipple cracks and involutio were found to potentially influence exclusive breastfeeding among infants aged 0–6 month.
Discussion
The rate of exclusive breastfeeding among infants aged 0–6 months in the local area is relatively low and decreasing month by month, making it difficult to sustain breastfeeding. This is influenced by various factors, including maternal and child health factors, occupational environment, and social support.
Conclusion
The breastfeeding situation for infants aged 0–3 months was relatively good. However, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding significantly decreased after 4 months of age.
Monitoring and identification of the fungi associated with infestation of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) on maize ears in Luxor Governorate, Egypt.
Authors: Mahmoud Ahmed Amer Ali , Bakry Moustafa M.S. , Hussein Mohamed A. , Dawy Eman G.A.M. El
Published: February 2024

Background
The infestation of the fall armyworm [Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)] in maize is currently becoming a serious problem, and it might endanger the future maize crop in Egypt. We conducted this study for the current status of S. frugiperda infestation on maize and survey & identification of the associated fungi in Luxor Governorate, Egypt. S. frugiperda invasion began on maize plants were detected during the period from the 3rd week of June until the corn harvest.
Results
As for the larvae counts, and the infestation percentage, there were three peaks recorded for each of them in each season, which were displayed at 1st week of July, 1st week of August and 1st week of September in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. As well, there are the highly significant positive relationship between the larvae population and the percentages of Infestation by Pest.
Conclusions
Thirteen fungal species were recovered from infected maize ears (picks). The identified fungi are attributed to the genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, Myrothecium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, and Trichoderma. The fungal species; A. flavus, A. welwitschiae and A. niger, A. brasiliensis had the highest incidences followed by T. viride and P. variable. These findings can help farmers and decision-makers form effective strategies to control this pest.
Correlations between major depressive disorder, splenic morphology and immunity
Authors: Lin Zouqing , Xu Xiaoyan , Zhang Kai , Wang Tenglong , Cao Leiming , Wang Zhiqiang , Wang Guoqiang
Published: February 2024

To explore the symptoms, course and severity of depressive disorder and the morphological changes of spleen and immune-related mechanism. We recruited patients with first-episode or recurrent major depressive disorder（MDD）(patient group) and healthy controls (normal group) matched in age and gender. All subjects’ plasma MICB (pg/ml), ULBP1 (ng/ml) and splenic volume (cm3) were measured at baseline. The patient group was randomly assigned to receive (S)-ketamine (study group) and non-(S)-ketamine (control group), and the above indexes were collected again on the 4th weekend after administration. At baseline, the MICB and splenic volume in patient group were significantly higher than those in normal group. There appears a positive correlation between MICB and splenic volume in the patient group. After administration of (S)-ketamine, the higher splenic volume and MICB decreased. The results indicate that the pathogenesis of MDD may involve abnormal changes in MICB expression and splenic morphology. (S)-ketamine may ameliorate the inflammation and enhance splenic function to relieve MDD symptoms.
Exploring the Impact of Breakfast Skipping on Psychiatric Disorders, Cognitive Performance, and Frailty: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Tan Jinglan , Luo Qinghua
Published: February 2024

Background
Previous research has indicated a correlation between skipping breakfast and an increased risk of mental health disorders. The objective of this study was to employ a Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis to investigate potential causal relationships between skipping breakfast and five psychiatric disorders, cognitive performance and frailty.
Methods
The research methodology involved gathering comprehensive data from whole-genome association studies focusing on breakfast habits, five specific psychiatric disorders (Alzheimer’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, depression and narcolepsy), cognitive performance, and frailty within the European population. The study assessed the causal relationship between "skipping breakfast" and five major psychiatric disorders, cognitive performance, and frailty through Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis.
Results
The results of the study showed that there is a causal relationship between "skipping breakfast" and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (OR = 2.738, 95%CI: 1.538–4.876, P < 0.001) and depression (OR = 1.502, 95%CI: 1.011–2.231, P = 0.044). However, no significant causal relationships were found between "skipping breakfast" and the other three psychiatric disorders (Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder and narcolepsy) (P > 0.05). Additionally, the research found causal relationships between "skipping breakfast" and cognitive performance (OR=-0.164, 95%CI: -0.291–0.036, P = 0.012) and frailty (OR = 0.288, 95% CI: 0.121–0.454, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The MR analysis revealed that skipping breakfast may increase the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, decline in cognitive performance, and frailty. However, skipping breakfast does not appear to have an impact on Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder, and narcolepsy. Further research is needed to investigate potential mechanisms supporting these new findings.
The Accountability of Health Facility Governing Committees and its Implications to Health Services Delivery in Njombe District Council, Tanzania.
Authors: MFUGALE TUMAINI , Mollel Henry
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Decentralization is important instrument for development in many countries around the world including the developing countries like Tanzania. In health care system, decentralization has been promoted by international donors as a sectoral reform in health with the objective of improving efficiency and suitability of health programs to community needs. Health Facility Governing Committees (HFGCs) have been introduced at all levels of the health system as a mechanism for improving accountability between health care providers and communities. Despite the presence of HFGCs, health facilities are not performing well. This study intended to assess factors impinging accountability of HFGCs to the community and to the Council Health Governing Boards.
Methods: A cross sectional study design was employed to 98 respondents who comprised Council Health Management Team, HFGCs and health staff. Simple random sampling, purposive and convenience sampling techniques were employed in arriving at the sample size. The study used interviews, literature review, Focus Group Discussions, questionnaires and observation. Data were analyzed descriptively by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences computer software version 21.
Results: Factors impinging accountability of HFGCs includes: Low level of education among committees member, lack of training, low knowledge of committees about their roles and inadequate fund.
Conclusion
Accountability of HFGCs is low which is contributed by low level of education, lack of training and inadequate fund. There is a need to review the guideline on formation of health committees particularly the part of education level, building ability and capacity to the committees and to have enough budget for HFGCs activities.
Liver injury associated with endothelin receptor antagonists: a pharmacovigilance study based on FDA adverse event reporting system data
Authors: Gu Jinjian , Guo Yuting , Wu Bin , He Jinhan
Published: February 2024

Background
Endothelin receptor antagonists are commonly used in clinical practice, with concerns about their hepatotoxicity.
Aim
This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive pharmacovigilance study based on FDA adverse event reporting system data to evaluate the possible association between endothelin receptor antagonists and drug-induced liver injury.
Method
Adverse event reports from FDA adverse event reporting system between January 2004 and December 2022 were analyzed. Disproportionality algorithms, including reporting odds ratio and information component, were used to evaluate the association between endothelin receptor antagonists and liver injury. Sex- and age-stratified analyses of drug-induced liver injury events were also conducted in relation to endothelin receptor antagonists.
Results
Significant associations between bosentan, macitentan, and liver injury were identified. Bosentan showed a strong link with liver injury, with reporting odds ratios for cholestatic injury at 7.59 (95% confidence interval: 6.90–8.35), hepatocellular injury at 5.63 (5.29-6.00), and serious drug-related hepatic disorders events at 1.33 (1.24–1.43). It also indicated drug-induced liver injury signals across all age groups. Macitentan was associated with liver injury, with reporting odds ratios for hepatic failure at 1.64 (1.39–1.94), cholestatic injury at 1.62 (1.43–1.83), and serious drug-related hepatic disorders events at 1.40 (1.29–1.51). No drug-induced liver injury signal was detected for ambrisentan, and no significant sex differences were observed in drug-induced liver injury events.
Conclusion
Both bosentan and macitentan are associated with liver injury. Routine monitoring of serum aminotransferase levels is recommended, especially in patients at higher risk of liver injury. Further research into drug-drug interactions involving Endothelin receptor antagonists is warranted.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Uganda cassava germplasm
Authors: SICHALWE KAROLINE LEONARD , Kayondo Ismail , Edema Richard , Dramadri Isaac O. , Kulembeka Heneriko , Kimani Wilson , Mgonja Doreen , Rubahaiyo Patrick , Kanju Edward
Published: February 2024

The genetic diversity and population structure were assessed in 155 Uganda cassava genotypes using 5,247 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers which had an average call rate of 96%. Polymorphic information content values of the markers ranged from 0.1 to 0.5 with an average of 0.4 which was considered to be moderately high. The Principal Component analysis (PCA) showed that the first two components captured ~ 24.2% of the genetic variation. The average genetic diversity was 0.3. The analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) indicated that 66.02% and 33.98% of the total genetic variation occurred within accessions and between sub-populations, respectively. Five sub-populations were identified based on ADMIXTURE structure analysis (K = 5). Neighbor-joining tree and hierarchical clustering tree revealed the presence of three different groups which were primarily based on the source of the genotypes. The results suggested that there was considerable genetic variation among the cassava genotypes which is useful in cassava improvement and conservation efforts.
Identification and map-based cloning a new gene TaSP1 related to spike shape by EMS-induced wheat mutant
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhou Huidan , Fu Xian , Zhou Niuniu , Liu Mengjie , Bai Shenglong , Zhao Xinpeng , Cheng Ruiru , Li Suoping , zhang Dale
Published: February 2024

Spike shape, an important factor for wheat grain yield, is mainly defined by spike length (SPL), spikelet number (SPN) and compactness. ZM1160, a mutant obtained from ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) treatment of hexaploid wheat variety Zhoumai32, was used to identify and clone the candidate gene conditioned the spike shape. Genetic analysis of an F2 population derived from a cross of ZM1160 and Bainong207 suggested that the compact spike shape in ZM1160 was controlled by a single recessive gene, and therefore the mutated gene was designated as Tasp1. With polymorphic markers identified through bulked segregant analysis (BSA), the gene was mapped to a 2.65 cM interval flanked by markers YZU0852 and MIS46239 on chromosome 7D, corresponding to a 0.42 Mb physical interval of Chinese spring (CS) reference sequences (RefSeq v1.0). To fine map TaSP1, 15 and 7 recombinants were respectively screened from 1599 and 1903 F3 plants derived from the heterozygous F2 plants. Finally, TaSP1 was delimited to a 21.9 Kb (4,870,562 to 4,892,493 bp) Xmis48123-Xmis48104 interval. Only one high-confidence gene TraesCS7D02G010200 was annotated in this region, which encodes an unknown protein with a putative vWA domain. The quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that TraesCS7D02G010200 was mainly expressed in the spike. Haplotype analysis of 655 wheat cultivars using the candidate gene-specific marker G010200P2 identified a superior haplotype TaSP1b with longer spike. TaSP1 is beneficial to the improvement of wheat spike shape.
Navigating Trust and Health in India: The Influence of Social Status and Neighbourhood Environment
Authors: Saha Shrestha
Published: February 2024

Background
The research on the relationship between interpersonal trust and health has primarily focused on Western contexts, with scarce attention in developing contexts. Addressing this gap, the study examines the association between interpersonal trust (both generalised and particularised) and health outcomes (self-rated health /SRH, and depression) among Indian adults, considering the moderating roles of social statuses (gender and caste) and macro-level factors like district-level income inequality.
Methods
The study draws on data from the World Health Organization's Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) Wave-1, collected between 2007 and 2010. This dataset provides a comprehensive overview of health outcomes, including self-rated health (SRH) and depression, socio-cultural status of adults aged 18 and above in India. Additionally, district-level data on income inequality, quantified through the Gini index, were incorporated to examine the influence of contextual socioeconomic influence on the trust-health relationship. Multilevel regression analysis with interaction effects with social statuses and income inequality at district was employed in the analysis to investigate the intricate relationship between interpersonal trust (both generalised and particularised) and health outcomes.
Results
The study reveals that while generalised trust does not directly influence depression or SRH, particularised trust acts as a protective factor for both health outcomes. Gender-specific interaction effect shows that generalised trust reduces depression among males and improves SRH among females. Notably, caste does not significantly moderate the trust-health relationship. High district-level income inequality, however, modifies these associations: generalised trust is associated with improved SRH in areas of high inequality, whereas particularised trust correlates with increased depression in these districts.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the complex dynamics between interpersonal trust, social status, and income inequality in shaping health outcomes in India. Generalised trust emerges as a potential buffer against the health-detrimental effects of income inequality, providing crucial insights for developing targeted health interventions. These results offer valuable guidance for global health policymakers and practitioners in effectively allocating development aid to enhance health outcomes, especially among the most marginalised groups.
Prognostic value of tumour-associated regulatory T-cells as a biomarker in non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Khambholja Kapil , Gehani Manish , Kothari Rushabh , Marulkar Sachin
Published: February 2024

Background: Despite continuous improvement, tumour, nodes, and metastases (TNM) staging has been deficient in prognosticating in patients suffering from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). To supplement TNM staging, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of the regulatory T cells (Treg).
Methods: A keyword search was conducted in the MEDLINE database through PubMed for full-text original human studies from any region published in English during the last 10 years. Eligible for inclusion were studies evaluating the prognostic value of the number of Treg cells and pre-specified biomarkers in NSCLC. Case studies, case series, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened the studies and assessed risk-of-bias using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. One reviewer used an automation tool for screening, which was also used to facilitate data extraction. Meta-analysis was done for studies reporting significant multivariate hazards ratio (HR).
Results: Out of 258 retrievals, 19 studies were included in the final review. The low number of Treg cells was found significantly associated with improved overall survival (pooled log OR: 1.626; 95% CI: 1.324, 1.928; p (2-tailed) <.001; SE: 0.1174), improved recurrence-free survival (HR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.15, 3.46; p = .01), and worse disease-free survival (pooled log OR: 0.992; 95% CI: 0.820, 1.163; p (2-tailed) .009; SE: 0.0135), especially when identified by forkhead box P3 (FOXP3), in any stage or non-metastatic NSCLC.
Conclusion: A low number of Treg cells indicated better survival, suggesting its potential use as a prognostic biomarker in NSCLC.
Systematic review registration: The protocol of this review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO on August 28, 2021, and was assigned the registration number CRD42021270598. The protocol can be accessed from PROSPERO website.