bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activity-based labelling of ammonia- and alkane-oxidizing microorganisms including ammonia-oxidizing archaea
Authors: Lücker Sebastian , Sakoula Dimitra , Schatteman Arne , Blom Pieter , Jetten Mike , Kessel Maartje van , Lehtovirta-Morley Laura
Published: September 2023

Recently, an activity-based labelling protocol for the in situ detection of ammonia- and alkane-oxidizing bacteria became available. This functional tagging technique enabled targeted studies of these environmentally widespread functional groups, but it failed to capture ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA). Since their first discovery, AOA have emerged as key players within the biogeochemical nitrogen cycle, but our knowledge regarding their distribution and abundance in natural and engineered ecosystems is mainly derived from PCR-based and metagenomic studies. Furthermore, the archaeal ammonia monooxygenase is distinctly different from its bacterial counterparts and remains poorly understood. Here, we report on the development of a universal activity-based labelling protocol for the fluorescent detection of all ammonia- and alkane-oxidizing prokaryotes, including AOA. In this protocol, 1,5-hexadiyne is used as inhibitor of ammonia and alkane oxidation and as bifunctional enzyme probe for the fluorescent labelling of cells via the Cu(I)-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition reaction. Besides efficient activity-based labelling of ammonia- and alkane-oxidizing microorganisms, this method can also be employed in combination with deconvolution microscopy for determining the subcellular localization of their ammonia- and alkane-oxidizing enzyme systems. Labelling of these enzymes in diverse ammonia- and alkane-oxidizing microorganisms allowed their visualization on the cytoplasmic membranes, the intracytoplasmic membrane stacks of ammonia- and methane-oxidizing bacteria, and, fascinatingly, on vesicle-like structures in one AOA species. The development of this universal activity-based labelling method for ammonia- and alkane-oxidizers will be a valuable addition to the expanding molecular toolbox available for research of nitrifying and alkane-oxidizing microorganisms.
Phytoremediation potential of plants growing spontaneously on abandoned coal mine wastes
Authors: Sanami Nateq Lashkari , Ghorbani Jamshid , Vahabzadeh Ghorban , Hodjati Seyed Mohammad , Motesharezadeh Babak
Published: September 2023

Coal mining activities cause drastic perturbation of vegetation, soil and diffuse heavy metal to environment. Hence, identification of heavy metals tolerant species is essential for ecological restoration of mine impacted lands. This study aimed to assess the concentration of heavy metals in soils and the phytoremediation potential of 13 dominant plants naturally growing on abandoned coal waste dumps in northern Iran. Plant roots and shoots and the corresponding soils were sampled and then prepared, dried and milled in the laboratory. The results showed that metals concentration varied among plants and for each species between root and shoot. Majority of plants accumulated greater metals in aboveground biomass than belowground biomass, which indicates their effective metal translocating capacity. Artemisia scoparia and Capparis spinosa were contained the highest concentrations of Cu in shoot with 41.06 and 42.48 mg/kg, and TF>1 indicating the capacity for phytoextraction. The accumulation of Arsenic in the shoots and roots of Sylibum marianum was higher than normal. Cynodon dactylon and Hordeum vulgare were the only plants that accumulated >100 mg/kg Zn in the roots and can be recommended for phytostabilization. S. marianum and Chenopodium album potentially can be considered as Cd-accumulator. Kochia prostrate with BCF and TF < 1 for most detected metals is the only excluder species. The only indicator species for Vanadium was S. marianum with a transfer factor of 2.01. S. marianum and Glaucium fimbriligerum showed a tolerance mechanism to Strontium. The findings confirmed the potential of these plants in translocating of metal(loid)s from roots to the aerial parts.
Serum LH Levels on hCG Trigger Day Affect IVF Outcomes Intensified by Poor Ovarian Reserve and Advanced Age
Authors: Chen Xia , Wei Siyi , Yue Lin , Xu Zhihui , Wu Dandan , Xu Jian
Published: September 2023

Objective
To assess the impact of luteinizing hormone (LH) level of hCG trigger day on in-vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes after fresh embryo transfers, and whether the effects are associated with women’ ovarian reserve and age.
Methods
Totally 1,423 women who underwent GnRH antagonist protocol for controlled ovarian stimulation at their first IVF cycle were included and stratified by LH level on hCG trigger day, 0.86 IU/L(10th ), 1.3 IU/L (25th ), 1.94 IU/L (50th ), 3.07 IU/L (75th ), 4.75 IU/L (90th ).
Results
LH level among 1.3-<1.94 IU/L presented the highest live birth rate (LBR, 52.3%) and lowest early pregnancy loss rate (ePLR, 10.5%), while LH < 0.86 IU/L had the lowest LBR (40.4%) and highest ePLR (15.6%). We further stratified the population into three groups, low LH (< 1.3 IU/L), normal LH (1.3-<4.75 IU/L) and high LH (≥ 4.75 IU/L). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that low LH was associated with lower chances of LBR (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.66, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.85), combined with increased risks of ePLR (AOR 1.51, 1.06 to 2.15). Additionally, the absolute risk difference for LBR was up to -16.3% between low LH and normal LH group among the poor ovarian reserve (AMH < 1.2 ng/ml), much greater than that among normal ovarian reserve (-10.0%). The same trend was showed in women ≥ 35 years age.
Conclusions
Either declined or elevated LH levels on hCG day were associated with adverse IVF outcomes. Compared with normal LH, low LH decreased the LBR and increased the ePLR, and the effects were exacerbated by poor ovarian reserve and advanced age.
Development and validation of a prognostic model for 4 years risk of Peripheral arterial disease restenosis following endovascular therapy
Authors: Meng Yizhe , Liu Jianping
Published: September 2023

Objectives: This study sought to investigate factors associated with restenosis after endovascular therapy (EVT) and established a novel nomogram integrating the Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASC) II classification and clinicopathological characteristics to establish easy-to-use and efficient prognostic tool to predict the probability of risk of restenosis following EVT in subjects with PAD.
Background: EVT’s common use, risk factors of restenosis have not been systematically studied. Arterial restenosis after EVT is a difficult problem to solve, requiring further attempts at revascularization with associated poorer clinical outcomes and increased cost.
Methods: Between January 2018 and December 2021, we studied 240 limbs from 486 original patients who were diagnosed Peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Predictors for restenosis in patients with PAD were assessed using a Cox proportional hazards model. A nomogram was constructed by using variables defined in the all data, which was validated in predictive discriminative, accuracy and clinical application.
Results: In the study, optimal independent factors included older age (hazard ratio [HR], 0.97; 95% CI: 0.94–1.00); poor BTK runoff (hazard ratio [HR], 2.41; 95% CI: 1.36–4.29); and TASC Ⅱ Class D in the femoropopliteal artery vs others classes (hazard ratio [HR], 2.59; 95% CI: 1.32–5.08), which were included in the nomogram predicting the vascular restenosis risk (all P < 0.05). The C-index values for restenosis risk in PAD with EVT were 0.732. Calibration curves indicated good consistency between predicted and actual outcomes. DCA confirmed the clinical utility of the diagnostic model.
Conclusions: In conclusion, the current study constructed an easy-going nomogram that plays a convincing role in the evaluation of the risk of progression of the restenosis risk in PAD patients following EVT. Meanwhile, FIB and Cr also are interesting idea to study the predictors in restenosis. Anyway, further study with larger sample sizes and multiple centers are essential to verify our conclusions.
Numerical simulation on performance improvement for blood cell separation under sheath-assisted dielectrophoresis
Authors: Hu Sheng , Wang Yang-cheng , Tong Rui-jie
Published: September 2023

Dielectrophoresis (DEP), known as an attractive and frugal technique, can be used to manipulate biological or non-biological particles in microfluidics. This paper presents a three-dimensional sheath-assisted microfluidic chip for focusing cells and separating red blood cells (RBCs) from white blood cells (WBCs) in continuous flow. Based on the control variables, a simulation model using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0 is calculated to obtain the favorable flow rate ratio under an electric potential as low as 14 Vpp, at the frequency of 175 kHz. Both RBCs and WBCs respond to negative dielectrophoresis forces and the performance of the separation process are analyzed by evaluating the purity and separation efficiency. The results reveal that the optimal flow rate ratio of the device is suitable to effectively separate RBCS from WBCs with high purity and cell separation efficiency factors up to 88% and 97%, at the throughput of 8 µL/h. The current research provides valuable insights into the design of microchip devices for the effective and selective separation regarding different cells in biological applications.
From Spectacle to Sustainability: Navigating Waste Management Challenges in Mega-Sporting Events of the Modern Era
Authors: Zafari Zahra , Golzary Abooali
Published: September 2023

In modern times, sports play a significant role in people's lives, serving as major global events. While sports can have a positive impact on health and quality of life, they can also have negative effects on the environment and people's health in specific circumstances. The production of massive amounts of waste during events like the Olympics and the World Cup is a major concern. Improper waste management can lead to land and water pollution, harm ecosystems, destroy biodiversity, and negatively impact human health. The amount of waste produced by stadiums around the world varies depending on factors such as population density, lifestyle, levels of consumption, and commercial activities near the stadiums. Weather conditions, seasons, and changes in people's behavior can also influence waste production. Understanding the variety of stadium waste (production rate, quantity, quality, source, etc.) and the characteristics of the host city is essential to design and implement sustainable waste management systems. Inefficient waste management can result in resource depletion, visual pollution, high management costs, and adverse effects on human health. This study aims to investigate different waste management strategies for mega-sporting events during the last two decades. The findings demonstrate that governments and event organizers have increasingly focused on implementing effective waste management systems. Going forward, organizers should prioritize smart waste management strategies to manage the waste stream generated by these events.
Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy plus immunotherapy in resectable N1/N2 NSCLC
Authors: Du Chengli , Chen Yunhao , Zhou Yuwei , Zheng Difang , Zhao Jiangang , Tang Jie , Wu Yihe , Tu Zhengliang
Published: September 2023

Background
Locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with N1/N2 lymph node metastasis is challenging with poor survival. Neo-adjuvant chemo-immunotherapy has gained benefits in a proportion of these patients. However no specific biomarker has been proved to predict the effect before therapy. In addition, the relationship of nodal status and survival after neo-adjuvant chemo-immunotherapy is still not well stated.
Methods
A total of 75 resectable NSCLC patients with N1/N2 stage who received neo-adjuvant chemo-immunotherapy plus surgery were retrospectively studied. The clinical characteristics, surgical information and safety parameters were collected. The correlations of major pathological response (MPR) and pathological complete response (pCR) with clinical data were analyzed. The progression free disease(PFS) and overall survival(OS) were evaluated with pathological response and nodal status.
Results
Of the 75 patients, 69 (92%) patients experienced treatment related adverse effects, while grade 3–4 adverse effects occurred in 8 (10%) patients. All the patients received surgical R0 resection with a MPR rate of 60% and a pCR rate of 36%. 67% of N1 patients and 77% of N2 patients had nodal clearance after neo-adjuvant treatment. A significant difference was observed between pathological response with age, histology and multiple lymph node metastasis. The PFS was better in the MPR cohort. The PFS was 90.1% and 83.6% at the nodal clearance group at the time of 12 and 18 months, compared with 70.1% and 63.7% at the nodal residual group.
Conclusions
The neo-adjuvant chemo-immunotherapy for locally advanced NSCLC with nodal positive was safe and feasible. The patients with elder age and squamous-cell carcinoma (SCC) were more likely to have better pathological response, while multiple nodal metastasis was a negative predictor. The clearance of lymph node resulted in significantly longer PFS and OS.
Floristic classification is not a predictor of species-specific evolutionary patterns
Authors: Fahey Patrick , Dimon Richard , Merwe Marlien van der , Bragg Jason , Rossetto Maurizio
Published: September 2023

The relationship between intra-specific and inter-specific patterns and processes over evolutionary time is key to ecological investigations. We examine this relationship from a novel perspective, focussing on the association between floristic classifications, a summary of inter-specific processes, and intra-specific genetic structuring. Applying an innovative, multispecies, and standardised population genomic approach we test the relationship between vegetation mapping schemes and landscape-level estimates of gene flow across a large, environmentally heterogenous region. We show that intra-specific genetic variation shows limited correspondence to vegetation classifications and is better explained by distance between sampled populations and the location of biogeographical features which limit gene flow. However, vegetation classification schemes with contiguous mapping classes were more predictive of genetic lineages than geographically non-contiguous schemes. The size of mapping units was found to be important, as most local vegetation types contained only single intra-specific genetic lineages, while these genetic lineages spanned hundreds of km’s across multiple vegetation types. We conclude that floristic classifications are not closely correlated with intra-specific genetic patterns, showing that intra-specific genetic processes are independent of inter-specific floristic assembly processes. This study also showcases the depth of understanding that can be developed using large, multispecies genetic datasets.
Does Excessive Physical Activity Increase the Risk of Sarcopenia? A Cross-sectional Study of Older Adults in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Chi-Hsuan , Liao Yung , Chang Shao-Hsi
Published: September 2023

Objectives: The updated World Health Organization 2020 guidelines strongly recommend an optimal physical activity level of 150-300 min/week for older adults. However, few studies have examined the relationship between different levels of physical activity and sarcopenia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the cross-sectional association between physical activity levels and the risk of sarcopenia in older adults.
Methods: A nationwide cross-sectional telephone survey of older adults (≥65 years) was conducted in Taiwan from October 2019 to January 2020. Older adults were interviewed to collect data on their self-reported level of physical activity (measured by the Taiwanese version of the IPAQ-SF), sarcopenia risk (measured by the SARC-F questionnaire), and sociodemographics. Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression models were applied.
Results: A total of 1068 older adults were surveyed. Compared with the optimal physical activity level recommendations in the WHO guidelines and after adjusting for potential confounders, older adults with insufficient physical activity levels (<150 min/week) were more likely to have a higher risk of sarcopenia (OR: 3.18; CI: 1.63-6.22), whereas older adults with excessive physical activity levels (≥300 min/week) were more likely to have a lower risk of sarcopenia (OR: 0.38; CI: 0.19-0.75).
Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight that inconsistent with the 2020 WHO guidelines, going beyond the recommended range of physical activity seems to be effective for sarcopenia prevention in older adults. Future research should further explore whether excessive physical activity levels could result in other health benefits.
Status of primary macronutrients and their connection to the chemical composition of the soil in Varanasi's vegetable-growing region
Authors: University Pramod Kumar Sharma Banaras Hindu , Universitry Kshirod Chandra Sahoo GIET
Published: September 2023

Plant nutrition is the key factor for crop growth particularly primary macronutrients. A lot of work conducted on cereals instead of vegetable growing areas. The major macronutrient status of the Shanshahpur village in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, a region known for its vegetable cultivation, was the subject of the current study. 50 samples were taken from each interplanted vegetable in the farmer's field to test for all primary macronutrients, i.e.N, P & K respectively. The pH of soil sample ranges from 6.03–8.72 in which maximum samples under alkaline category. The EC of soil sample suitable for vegetable growing which contain less amount of salt. The organic carbon content in medium range which favourable for crop growth. From 110 to 377 Kgha− 1 of accessible nitrogen was found in the surface soil of the village of Shanshahpur, with 84 percent falling into the low category. The accessible phosphorus level in the vegetable producing areas were in the medium to high range, with a mean value of 15.95 Kgha− 1 and a range of 10 to 34 Kgha− 1. The available potassium levels in the soils varied from 202 to 358 Kgha− 1, largely in the high to medium range. The available nitrogen was shown to strongly correlate (r = 0.15) with soil pH. The amount of accessible nitrogen (r = 0.26) and the amount of organic carbon (r=-0.23) were adversely linked with the electrical conductivity of soil. With regard to available nitrogen content, organic carbon content in vegetable-growing regions was very significant (r = 0.99***). The association was favourable (r = 0.16) between organic matter and available phosphorus.
Optimizing Deep Learning-Based Segmentation of Densely Packed Cells using Cell Surface Markers
Authors: Han Sunwoo , Phasouk Khamsone , Zhu Jia , Fong Youyi
Published: September 2023

Background: Spatial molecular profiling depends on accurate cell segmentation. Identification and quantitation of individual cells in dense tissues, e.g. highly inflamed tissue caused by viral infection or immune reaction, remains a challenge.
Methods: We first assess the performance of 18 deep learning-based cell segmentation models, either pre-trained or trained by us using two public image sets, on a set of immunofluorescence images stained with immune cell surface markers in skin tissue obtained during human herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. We then further train eight of these models using up to 10,000+ training instances from the current image set. Finally, we seek to improve performance by tuning parameters of the most successful method from the previous step.
Results: The best model before fine-tuning achieves a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 0.516. Prediction performance improves substantially after training. The best model is the cyto model from Cellpose. After training, it achieves an mAP of 0.694; with further parameter tuning, the mAP reaches 0.711.
Conclusion: Selecting the best model among the existing approaches and further training the model with images of interest produce the most gain in prediction performance. The performance of the resulting model compares favorably to human performance. The imperfection of the final model performance can be attributed to the moderate signal-to-noise ratio i the imageset.
Microwave in situ inactivation technique for the treatment of giant cell tumor of bone: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jiang Xiang , Xia Pingguang , Yu Aixi
Published: September 2023

Introduction Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) necessitates a distinct treatment approach compared to benign and malignant bone tumors due to its invasive nature. Intralesional curettage, with adequate margin control, is an established and effective treatment option that is widely accepted. The efficacy of microwave in situ inactivation (MIST) or microwave ablation (MWA) technology, which is commonly used as an adjuvant, needs to be evaluated. The objective of this study was to systematically review the treatment options of microwave in situ inactivation for GCTB. Materials and methods A systematic review of published literature was conducted to analyze the treatment of giant cell tumor of bone with microwave ablation. The literature search was performed using various online databases such as EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and Medline. The effectiveness of MIST in treating GCTB and any associated complications were evaluated through the summary of the literature. Results The included literature presents findings from five studies, which collectively reported a total of 221 cases. The effectiveness of MIST was assessed in terms of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score over an average 18-month follow-up period. The results showed a significant improvement, with a mean difference of 26.65 (95% CI: 24.91–28.39, p < 0.00001). Subgroup analysis specifically focusing on distal femur and distal radius lesions demonstrated excellent outcomes with satisfactory control of overall complications. Conclusions Existing evidence suggests that the combination of MIST and effective intralesional curettage achieves satisfactory short-to-medium-term treatment outcomes for giant cell tumors of the bone. This approach offers significant advantages in key aspects, including postoperative mobility and preservation of joint function, control of local recurrence, prevention of joint degeneration, and reduction in metastasis and mortality rates.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Emerging Young and Mature Leaves of Bienertia sinuspersici, a Single-Cell C4 Plant
Authors: Sharpe Richard M. , Hewitt Seanna , Edwards Gerald E. , Dhingra Amit
Published: September 2023

Efficient carbon capture by plants is crucial to meet the increasing demands for food, fiber, feed, and fuel worldwide. One potential strategy to improve photosynthetic performance of plants is the conversion of C3-type crops to C4-type crops, enabling them to perform photosynthesis at higher temperatures and with less water. C4-type crops, such as corn, possess a distinct Kranz anatomy, where photosynthesis occurs in two distinct cell types. Remarkably, Bienertia sinuspersici is one of the four known land plant species to perform C4 photosynthesis within a single cell, characterized by dimorphic chloroplasts and corresponding intracellular biochemistry. The young emerging leaves exhibit C3 anatomy which differentiate into the unique single cell C4 anatomy as the leaves mature. A comparative transcriptome analysis yielded a total of 72,820 unique transcripts in young and 72,253 transcripts in mature leaves of B. sinuspersici. In the young leaf, enrichment of processes associated with the cell cycle, cellular developmental patterning, and transcriptional regulatory mechanisms was observed. The mature leaf displayed enrichment of processes associated with photosynthesis, chloroplast components, translational components, and post-translational modifications. Notably, several transcription factors such as auxin response factor (ARF), basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH), GATA, homeodomain (HD), MYB, NAC, squamosa promoter-binding protein-like (SPL), and zinc finger (ZF) family were differentially expressed in in the young leaf. These data expand our insights into the molecular basis of Bienertia’s unique cellular compartmentalization, chloroplast dimorphism, and single-cell C4 biochemistry, and the information can be useful in the ongoing efforts to transform C3-type crops into C-4 type.
Comparison of short-term clinical outcomes between open-wedge high tibial osteotomy and tibial condylar valgus osteotomy
Authors: Higuchi Takashi , Koseki Hironobu , Yonekura Akihiko , Imai Chieko , Tomonaga Iku , Sunagawa Shinya , Matsumura Umi , Osaki Makoto
Published: September 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare radiological features and short-term clinical outcomes between open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) and tibial condylar valgus osteotomy (TCVO), in order to define the indication criteria for TCVO.
Methods: Twenty-seven cases involving 30 knees that had undergone HTO and eighteen cases involving 19 knees that had undergone TCVO for medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (OA) were retrospectively evaluated. Patient characteristics, severity of knee OA, lower limb alignment, and joint instability were measured in standing full-length leg and knee radiographs obtained before and 1 year after surgery. Range of motion in the knee joint was measured and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was obtained to evaluate clinical results preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively.
Results: Mean age was significantly higher in the TCVO group than in the HTO group. Radiological features in the TCVO group included greater frequencies of advanced knee OA, varus lower limb malalignment, and varus-valgus joint instability compared to the HTO group before surgery. However, alignment of the lower limb and joint instability improved to comparable levels after surgery in both groups. Maximum flexion angles were significantly lower in the TCVO group than in the HTO group both pre- and postoperatively. Mean values in all the KOOS subscales recovered similarly after surgery in both groups, although scores on three subscales (Symptom, Pain, and ADL) were lower in the TCVO group.
Conclusions: TCVO appears preferable in cases of advanced knee OA and high varus-valgus joint instability. An appropriate choice of surgical procedure is important to obtain favorable clinical outcomes.
Self-determination and Mortality in Older Chinese Adults: Unraveling the Intersections of Gender and Age
Authors: Jiao Kaishan , Pang Xiuyun , Hu Wen
Published: September 2023

Background: While existing research establishes a connection between increased self-determination and decreased mortality rates among older adults, there is still limited understanding of how this association varies across demographic variables such as gender and age.
Methods: The present study examines the nuances in the relationship between self-determination and mortality risk in a large, nationally-representative cohort of individuals aged over 60 (n=23,522). Self-determination was quantified using a validated measure that evaluates self-direction and agency. Mortality was monitored over a span of 16 years. To minimize sample selection bias, propensity scores were utilized to compute weights, following which a weighted Cox regression model was applied.
Results: The findings indicated that self-determination significantly predicted reduced mortality. Notably, the relationship between self-determination and mortality was modulated by both gender and age, with the effects being most pronounced for men and those in the younger age brackets.
Conclusions: By shedding light on the intricate interplays between self-determination and health outcomes, this research offers insights for designing tailored interventions aimed at mitigating mortality rates and promoting healthy aging across a heterogeneous elderly population.
Prevalence, influence factors and cognitive characteristics of vascular mild cognitive impairment and vascular dementia in hypertension
Authors: Li Wei , Sun Lin , Yue Ling , Xiao Shifu
Published: September 2023

Hypertension is considered as an independent risk factor for vascular mild cognitive impairment (vMCI) and vascular dementia (VaD). This study was performed to investigate the prevalence, influencing factors and cognitive characteristics of vMCI and VaD in elderly patients with hypertension in China. In the cross-sectional study, we performed cluster random sampling of 3246 people age 60 years and older across the country. All participants were interviewed and screened for hypertension. Among the 1495 hypertensive patients, 57 were diagnosed with vMCI and 48 with VaD according to the criteria of Petersen and DSM-IV, respectively. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate risk and protective factor for vMCI and VaD with Hypertension. And we also assessed their cognitive function by a series of neuropsychological tests. We finally found that: 1) the prevalence of vMCI and VaD in hypertension was 3.8% and 3.2%, respectively, which was much higher than that of normal controls (p<0.05). 2)Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that advanced age (p<0.001, OR=1.066, 95%CI: 1.030~1.104), sleep too little (p=0.011, OR=2.279, 95%CI: 1.210~4.291) and physical discomfort (p<0.001, OR=6.380, 95%CI: 2.956~13.774) were the risk factors for the development of vMCI in patients with hypertension; advanced age (p=0.002, OR=1.061, 95%CI: 1.021~1.011), physical discomfort (p=0.005, OR=3.922, 95%CI: 1.506~10.214) and depressive symptoms (p<0.001, OR=8.363, 95%CI: 3.023~23.138) were also the risk factor for VaD, while education (p=0.040, OR=0.941, 95%CI: 0.888~0.997), tea drinker (p=0.017, OR=0.483, 95%CI: 0.266~0.878) as well as take exercise (p=0.003, OR=0.416, 95%CI: 0.234~0.737) were protective factors of VaD;3) both overall and specific areas of cognitive function decrease in hypertension patients with vMCI and VaD, and show a gradual trend of aggravation.
The paradox of plant preference: the malaria vectors Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles coluzzii select suboptimal food sources for their survival and reproduction
Authors: PARE Prisca , HIEN Domonbabele F. D. S. , YOUBA Mariam , YERBANGA Rakiswendé S. , Cohuet Anna , GOUAGNA Louis-Clément , DIABATE Abdoulaye , Ignell Rickard , Dabiré Roch , Gnankiné Olivier , Lefevre Thierry
Published: September 2023

Anopheles gambiae s.l. mosquitoes, the primary malaria vectors in sub-Saharan Africa, exhibit selectivity among plant species as potential food sources. However, it remains unclear if their preference aligns with optimal nutrient intake and survival. Following an extensive screening of the effects of 31 plant species on An. coluzzii in Burkina Faso, we selected three species for their contrasting effects on mosquito survival, namely Ixora coccinea, Caesalpinia pulcherrima and Combretum indicum. We assessed the sugar content of these plants and their impact on mosquito fructose-positivity, survival, and insemination rate, using Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles gambiae, and with glucose 5% and water as controls. Plants displayed varying sugar content and differentially affected the survival, sugar intake and insemination rate of mosquitoes. All three plants were more attractive to mosquitoes than controls, with An. gambiae being more responsive than An. coluzzii. Notably, C. indicum was the most attractive but had the lowest sugar content and offered the lowest survival, insemination rate, and fructose positivity. Our findings unveil a performance-preference mismatch in An. coluzzii and An. gambiae regarding plant food sources. Several possible reasons for this negative correlation between performance and preference are discussed.
Effects of IL-17 Inhibition with Secukinumab in Experimental Periodontitis
Authors: Taskin Cem , Aydinyurt Hacer Sahin , Sancak Tunahan , Gevrek Fikret , Demir Canan
Published: September 2023

Objective
IL-17 plays a key role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis and systemic inflammatory diseases. This study investigates the effect of secukinumab, an IL-17 inhibitor, on the development of periodontal disease in a rat model of experimental periodontitis.
Materials and Methods
Experimental periodontitis was induced in rats by suturing silk around the mandibular first molar tooth (n = 32). After inducing periodontitis with ligature, the animals were divided into two groups: experimental and control. In the experimental group secukinumab was given intraperitoneally. The experiment was terminated 14 days after the induction of experimental periodontitis. Alveolar bone loss (ABL) was measured from microscope images, and the level of inflammatory cell infiltration (ICI) was analyzed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. IL-17, nuclear factor kappa B ligand receptor activator (RANKL), osteoprotegrin (OPG) levels and RANKL/OPG ratio were evaluated by immunohistochemistry.
Results
In the development process of experimental periodontitis, it was observed that the IL-17 inhibitor secukinumab decreased IL-17 levels, ABL, ICI and RANKL/OPG ratio (p < 0.05); and increased OPG levels (p < 0.05). No statistically significant effect of secukinumab application was observed on RANKL levels (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
The results obtained from this study suggested that inhibition of IL-17 with secukinumab slows down the development of periodontitis and IL-17 plays a key role as a pro-inflammatory cytokine in periodontitis pathogenesis.
Clinical Relevance:
This study is the first to examine the effect of secukinumab on periodontal tissues, despite of its limitations. It sheds light on the role of IL-17 in periodontal inflammation in experimental periodontitis.
Molecular insights into hydrogen solubility in water under pore confinement
Authors: Yu Siqin , Kang Qinjun , Mehana Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Underground hydrogen storage in geological formations has gained significant interest as a potential solution to global energy transition. Among the technical challenges related to underground hydrogen storage, one key fundamental problem is the solubility change due to the confinement, which is highly relevant to safety and efficiency. Though solubility enhancement has been extensively reported in multiple systems, hydrogen displays undersolubility under the nanoconfinement of clay. In this study, we use molecular dynamic simulations to study the hydrogen solubility in water at realistic storage conditions under the confinement of kaolinite. We find a solubility enhancement of 10-fold compared with that in the bulk for both hydrophobic and hydrophilic systems. Furthermore, we identify the major driving mechanism and show that the over-solubility is driven by adsorption and confinement.
Participatory investigation of goat farmers’ breeding practices, trait preference and selection criteria in Burkina Faso
Authors: Akounda Badjibassa , Ouédraogo Dominique , Soudre Albert , Burger Pamela Anna , Rosen Benjamin D. , Tassell Curtis P. Van , Sölkner Johann
Published: September 2023

The community-based breeding program (CBBP) is an innovative approach recommended for genetic improvement and sustainable use of animal genetic resources in extensive farming systems. Successful implementation of this approach requires an understanding of the characteristics of production systems, breeding objectives and farmers’ trait preference. This study aimed to understand the breeding objectives and to identify the selection criteria of goat farmers in rural areas of Burkina Faso and their potential implications in establishing CBBP. Following focus group discussions, a well-structured questionnaire was designed and administered to 372 randomly selected goat farmers in two different agro-ecological zones. A list of traits obtained during focus group discussions was provided to farmers individually, and they were asked to rank the ones they preferentially use to select breeding animals. Statistical tests were conducted to compare data between the two agro-ecological zones. The results showed that average goat flock per household was higher (P<0.05) in the Sudanian (15.68±13.76), compared to the Sudano-Sahelian area (12.93 ± 13.3). Adult females were the dominant age-sex group in both areas. Reasons for culling, keeping breeding bucks and castration practice were significantly different (P< 0.05) among agro-ecological zones. The most important common criterion for selection in the two zones were body size, coat color, and growth rate for the bucks and does, while fertility (0.06) parameters including twining ability (0.18) and kidding frequency (0.11) and mothering ability (0.15) were furthermore considered for breeding does selection. These findings provide valuable insights for developing CBBPs tailored to goat production in the study areas.
expression patterns and functional analysis of 16 members of bZIP family of TGA class in response to fungal disease in rice
Authors: zhang huijuan , zheng dewei , yin longfei , song fengming , jiang ming
Published: September 2023

Background
TGA class of bZIP transcription factor are involved in plant immune responses. However, little is known in rice.
Results
In this study, the expression patterns of TGA in response to signaling molecules and pathogen infection were analyzed. The functions of TGA genes were analyzed by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS). qRT-PCR analysis revealed that expression levels of TGA genes were induced by hormone treatment and Magnaporthe oryzae inoculation. The BMV:OsbZIP03-, BMV:OsbZIP08-, BMV:OsbZIP63- and BMV:OsbZIP64-infiltrated seedlings showed increased susceptibility to Magnaporthe oryzae than BMV:00-infiltrated seedlings, maybe through regulating the expression levels of defense-related genes, SA content and JA content. BMV:OsbZIP64-infiltrated seedlings showed decreased resistance to Rhizoctonia solani by regulating the expression levels of defense-related genes.
Conclusion
We selected 16 TGAs from rice, and analyzed their phylogenetic relationships, expression patterns and functions in disease resistance. The results showed that OsbZIP03, OsbZIP08 and OsbZIP63 positively regulated the resistance to Magnaporthe oryzae, and OsbZIP64 positively regulated resistance to Magnaporthe oryzae and Rhizoctonia solani.
Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of gene expression differences and functional verification of the anthocyanin synthesis pathway in Rhododendron
Authors: Wang Qinghao , Jiang Baoxin , Jia Yonghong , Shou Huixia , Chen Zhihui , Cheng Yuhao , Xie Xiaohong , Wu Yueyan
Published: September 2023

Rhododendron(Rhododendron simsii Planch) is one of the most diverse genera of woody plants in the world. It is rich in germplasm resources, but the molecular regulation of Rhododendron colour formation is poorly understood. In this study, two Belgian Rhododendron varieties with red and white flowers were subjected to RNA-sequencing and Protein sequencing analyses. Integrative analysis of transcriptome and proteome data was used to identify anthocyanin synthesis genes and proteins specifically expressed in flowers of different colours. The key differences between red and white flowers across flower development stages were analysed using the KEGG database, while the expression levels of differentially expressed genes in the anthocyanin/flavonoid biosynthesis pathways were compared using RNA-seq and qRT‒PCR data. The key pathways affecting flower colour in Rhododendron were identified by correlation analysis of the transcriptome data. We identified 6 anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes. The differences in the gene sequences of RsCHS, RsCHI, RsF3H, RsFLS, RsDFR, and RsANS and cis-acting elements might be related to the accumulation of anthocyanins. RsDFR gene overexpression caused Arabidopsis leaves to turn red. These results provide valuable information on the molecular mechanism underlying Rhododendron flower colour formation.
Redefining counting of copy number variations and single-nucleotide polymorphisms by applying a novel concept based on the STexS and STexS II method
Authors: Park Byoung Chul , Kim Jae Jong , Park Hyoung-Min , Kyoung A. Young , Lim Si-Kyu , Lee J. Eugene
Published: September 2023

Human genes exist as numerous copy number variations (CNV) and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) that exert control over the majority of the bodies’ core functions. On average, 12–16% of human genes have CNVs and a single gene can have anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand SNPs. By virtue of numerous genome-wide association studies (GWAS), we now know that CNVs and SNPs can coexist in certain genomic regions, amplifying expression, regulation, and susceptibility effects. Researchers initially categorized CNVs and SNPs into two types: homozygous and heterozygous. However, copy numbers were soon revealed to have a much wider range, underscoring their significance in certain diseases and microbial interactions. Because of the significant impact of CNVs and SNPs, research groups worldwide have eagerly sought an adequate method for measuring both simultaneously. Despite yielding some minor results, these simultaneous counting methods failed to perform up to expectations, leaving researchers to measure CNVs and SNPs separately. To overcome the current limitations, we developed a novel approach based on combining primers designed by the STexS method with matching probes used in the STexS II method. This method successfully measured both CNVs and SNPs of CYP2A6 (-48T>G) and CYP2A7 in a single quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Once properly adjusted based on three core principles, this new method drastically improved the time, cost effectiveness, and overall accuracy of the counting of an individual’s genetic status. Further testing of 100 human genomic DNA samples enabled calculation of the overall frequency of [T] and [G] components within an East Asian population, yielding results that were highly congruent with a previous NIH database. This novel method should redefine genetic profiling and could provide a means to not only successfully predict one’s genetic characteristics, but further enhance personalized medicine and pinpoint appropriate individualized treatments.
Correlation between Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores and indicators of inflammation and infection in patients with sepsis
Authors: Fu Zhiwei , Xin Weiwei , Zhang Shutao , Jiao Juyang , Qu Xinhua , Yue Bing
Published: September 2023

Objective and design
We aimed to explore the correlation between eight plasma biomarkers and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score in sepsis.
Subjects
Adult medical non-trauma patients with sepsis (n = 450) were enrolled in the University of Pittsburgh Acute Lung Injury Registry (ALIR) between October 2011 and January 2018. The final cohort consisted of 153 patients (SOFA score > 2).
Methods
PTX-3 was analyzed using multiple statistical tests along with the SOFA scores and the remaining biomarkers using the ALIR data. Threshold effect analysis using segmented regression evaluated correlations between markers and SOFA scores.
Results
The values of Ang-2, ST-2, fractalkine, IL-1ra, TNFR1, PCT, and PTX-3, but not of C-peptide, were significantly higher in the severe sepsis than in the mild sepsis group. One-way logistic regression analysis indicated that the serum levels of Ang-2, ST-2, fractalkine, IL-1ra, TNFR1, PCT, and PTX-3, but not of C-peptide, significantly correlated with SOFA scores. Threshold effect analysis indicated significant nonlinear correlations between Ang-2, ST-2, IL-1ra, TNFR1, PCT, and PTX-3 levels and SOFA scores.
Conclusions
Although correlations between some plasma biomarkers and SOFA scores were nonlinear, these markers may be used as reference indexes to determine inflammation severity in sepsis.
Paraprotein interferences: Insights from a short study involving multiple platforms and multiple measurands.
Authors: Sarkar Rajarshi
Published: September 2023

Background: Though paraproteinaemic interferences is a well-known phenomenon in clinical chemistry, a large-scale evaluation study involving multiple paraproteinaemic specimens on multiple platforms including multiple measurands with an aim to provide a predictive analysis, is singularly lacking. The present study aims to fill this gap in research.
Material & Methods: This cross-sectional non-interventional observational study involved thirteen paraproteinaemic subjects, determined their gamma globulin characterization and measured their total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, HDL-cholesterol, calcium, inorganic phosphate, iron and unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) levels on a dry chemistry platform (Vitros 350) as the established method and two wet chemistry platforms (AU5800 and Cobas 6000) as the evaluation methods. Data thus generated was analyzed for any significant variation and tested if such variation increased with decreasing albumin/ globulin ratio.
Results: Significant variation between dry chemistry and wet chemistry measurements were obtained for direct bilirubin, HDL and iron on AU5800 with p-values of 0.0009, <0.0001 and 0.0466 respectively. Similarly, discrepant results were obtained on Cobas 6000 for direct bilirubin and iron, with p-values of <0.0001 and 0.0002 respectively. Additionally, UIBC measurements on AU5800 varied significantly with increasing amounts of paraprotein present in the specimen (p-value = 0.0207).
Conclusion: This study emphasizes on predictive analyses to show that paraprotein interferences are fairly common on wet chemistry platforms. Evolving algorithms for monitoring of reaction curves can minimize release of erroneous results due to such interferences.
Genetic parameters and promising provenances and progenies for enhanced silvicultural traits in Eremanthus erythropappus
Authors: Almeida Rodolfo Soares , Oliveira Lavinia Barbosa , Santos Heloisa Guimaraes , Júnior Adelson Lemes Silva , Cunha Fernanda Leite , Melo Lucas Amaral , Possato Ernani Lopes
Published: September 2023

Eremanthus erythropappus, a species of economic importance for α-bisabolol production, has great potential for genetic improvement. However, limited knowledge on genetic parameters during the exploitation of commercial plantations hampers its progress. In this study, we estimated genetic parameters and correlations for silvicultural traits in a provenance and progenies test of E. erythropappus at 11 years of age, aiming to identify promising provenances and families. The experiment, conducted in Baependi, involved five provenances and 116 half-sib families in a complete randomized block design. Height (H), diameter at breast height (DBH), survival (SOB), and volume (Vol) were measured, and the REML/BLUP mixed model approach was used to estimate genetic parameters. Our results revealed significant genotype-level effects for all traits, except H at the provenance level. Narrow sense heritability ranged from 0.05 (SOB) to 0.17 (DBH), suggesting a substantial influence of environmental factors. Genotypic variation surpassed that of provenances, and positive phenotypic and genotypic correlations between growth traits were observed, ranging from moderate to strong. Notably, the provenances Itabirito and Delfim Moreira exhibited outstanding performance in terms of DBH and Vol. Furthermore, families 4, 6, 37, 118, and 124 emerged as top contenders for H, DBH, and Vol. Despite low heritability, selection strategies within and between provenances and families for silvicultural traits are viable. Importantly, high phenotypic and genotypic correlations allow for indirect selection, thus streamlining assessment efforts. These findings advance our understanding of genetic parameters providing valuable insights for the genetic improvement of E. erythropappus, fostering its sustainable utilization in various industries.