bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive evaluation of pea germplasm resources based on cluster analysis and grey relational analysis
Authors: Zhao Tianyao , Quan Wei , Du Zhonghe , Xie Qiang , Kang Yufan , Xue Wentong
Published: May 2022

Pea (Pisum sativum L.) is an economically important legume crop. Due to the growingly improved living standard and the dietary diversity, there is an increasing demand for peas and sprouts year by year, which makes it imperative to screen high-quality pea varieties. In this study, 34 pea varieties were collected for germination treatment, and their sprouting and functional characteristics were investigated. The results showed that the epicotyl length and output ratio of pea sprouts ranged from 3.54 ~ 20.66 cm and 0.91 ~ 3.03, respectively. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 2,2’-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) free radical scavenging capacity and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) varied widely, ranging from 2.33 ~ 4.61 mg GAE/g DW, 7.14 ~ 13.54 mg RUT/g DW, 46.67 ~ 65.65 µM TE/g DW and 14.95 ~ 31.26 mM Fe2+/g DW, respectively. Significantly high linear correlation coefficients were reported among TPC, TFC, ABTS, and FRAP of pea sprouts. Compared with ungerminated pea seeds, sprouts had richer phenolic content and superior antioxidant capacity. Principal component analysis (PCA) extracted three principal components with a total cumulative contribution rate of 84.50%. Hierarchical clustering analysis was carried out based on the extracted three principal components, and the obtained dendrogram divided pea varieties into four categories. The best-performing variety was evaluated by grey relational analysis as 9618-2, with an associate degree of 0.819. The high-quality pea varieties selected by cluster analysis and grey relational analysis were basically the same. Overall, the germinated varieties 9618-2, Dingwan 4, Dingwan 8, Baiwandou, Taiwanxiaobaihua, Chengduzhushawan, Dingwan 5, Caoyuan 224 were superior sources of natural antioxidants.
Pose-Based Boundary Energy Image for Gait Recognition from Silhouette Contour Information
Authors: Gupta Sanjay Kumar , Chattopadhyay Pratik
Published: May 2022

Gait is a biometric feature that refers to walking style, and medical studies claim that any individual has an unique gait pattern. In this work, we consider a gait recognition scenario in which at least a complete cycle of gait is captured for each person and propose a new feature termed as the Pose-based Boundary Energy Image (BEI) that captures the dynamics of gait at a high resolution by deriving features from the silhouette contour information corresponding to the fractional parts of a gait cycle. The use of silhouette contour information for feature extraction is advantageous in the sense that it makes the extracted gait features more discriminative due to eliminating the redundant silhouette-level information, as used in most traditional approaches. We reduce the dimension of the Pose-based BEI feature by applying PCA, and next carry out the final phase of LDA-based classification using the reduced feature set. Evaluation of the proposed approach has been done on CASIA B and TUMGAID data sets and satisfactory results are obtained. Comparative study with existing techniques also shows that our approach outperforms the existing methods.
Investigation for the Affecting Factors on the Straightness Measurements for large CNC Machine Tools
Authors: Elmelegy Ahmed , Zahwi Sarwat , Sobhi Ahmed
Published: May 2022

The machine tools has main role in high production quality level of industrial products. Inorder to save and increase this high quality of production level, the geometric errors of machine tools have to measured, determined and controlled. Straightness errors are one of the most important type of geometric errors of machine tools. The measurements of straightness errors i.e. horizontal and vertical straightness errors are affected by various factors. The straightness errors are measured versus three important factors. These factors are different location positions, different moving steps and different analysis methods. Among the sex latches of machine tool in this paper, the straightness errors in X axis at latch 3 has minimum values. The straightness errors in Z axis at right position about 2000 Ømm (1000 mm) from the machine center has also mimimum values. Straightness errors are measured at moving steps, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mm. Such errors have minimum values at moving step 50 mm. Regression, end-point fitting and ISO1101 are three mathematical tools that used in determination of straightness errors.
miR-101-5p contributes to preeclampsia via modulating the DUSP6- ERK1/2 axis
Authors: Xu Jiacheng , Wang Jie , Chen Miaomiao , Chao Bingdi , He Jie , Bai Yuxiang , Luo Xiaofang , Liu Hongli , Xie Lumei , Tao Yuelan , Luo Xin , Qi Hongbo
Published: May 2022

Background
Preeclampsia (PE) is defined as new-onset hypertension with proteinuria or end-organ dysfunction after 20 weeks of gestation. Defective placentation due to dysregulated behaviors of trophoblast cells is considered a predominant cause of PE. Recently, increasing evidence has suggested an association between microRNAs and PE progression. This study aims to explore the effect of miR-101-5p on trophoblast cell function and the pathogenesis of PE.
Methods
Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)-immunofluorescence (IF) double labeling were used to determine miR-101-5p expression levels and localization. Wound-healing, transwell, EdU, and flow cytometry assays were used to examine migration, invasion, proliferation, and apoptosis. Transcriptomics and bioinformatics analysis revealed potential targets and pathways for miR-101-5p. The direct binding between miR-101-5p and DUSP6 was confirmed by Western blotting and the dual-luciferase reporter assay. Expression levels of DUSP6, p-ERK1/2, and ERK1/2 were examined by Western blotting.
Results
MiR-101-5p was upregulated in preeclamptic placentas when compared with normal controls and was mainly located in various trophoblast cell subtypes. Overexpression of miR-101-5p impaired the migration and invasion of HTR8/SVneo cells but did not affect proliferation or apoptosis. DUSP6 was predicted as a potential downstream target of miR-101-5p. In HTR8/SVneo cells, exogenous transfection of miR-101-5p reduced DUSP6 expression, and miR-101-5p was bound to DUSP6 directly. DUSP6 upregulation rescued the migratory and invasive abilities of HTR8/SVneo cells in the presence of miR-101-5p overexpression. Moreover, miR-101-5p could enhance ERK1/2 phosphorylation by downregulating DUSP6.
Conclusions
Overexpression of miR-101-5p inhibited the migration and invasion of trophoblast cells by targeting DUSP6 and activating the MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Thus, the newly identified miR-101-5p/DUSP6/ERK1/2 axis provides a novel insight into the pathogenesis of PE.
Effects of the interaction between air pollutants and temperature on daily mortality from respiratory and circulatory diseases
Authors: Zhang Weining , Sun Yuanyuan , Shen Xifeng , Li Meiting , Nan Jiale , Gao Dongping
Published: May 2022

Objectives: To evaluate the synergistic effects of air pollutants and temperature on the mortality risk of respiratory and circulatory diseases in residents. Methods:A generalized additive model based on time series and a bivariate response surface were conducted to assess the association and the potential interaction between air pollutants and temperature with respiratory and circulatory mortality risks using the causes of death and environmental monitoring data from 2014 to 2018 in a certain region of China.Results: Temperature and mortality consistently showed V-shaped associations, and the optimum temperature is 26℃. PM2.5 and PM10 have a lagging effect on respiratory diseases, and the effect was the largest when the lag time was 2 days, for every 10μg/m³ increase of PM2.5 and PM10, the risk of daily respiratory disease death increased by 0.36% and 0.26%, respectively. The influence of SO2 on respiratory diseases and circulatory diseases reached the maximum of 2.38% and 1.43% in 4 days lag, respectively. NO2 and O3 did not affect respiratory diseases, and had the greatest effect on death from circulatory diseases on the day, reaching 1.06% and -0.40%, respectively. CO did not affect death both from respiratory and circulatory diseases. High concentrations of PM2.5, PM10 and O3 together with low temperatures can lead to a significant increase in deaths from respiratory diseases, suggesting that low temperature may enhance the harmful effect of these three pollutants on respiratory diseases. Except for SO2, low temperature can enhance the death effect of air pollutants on circulatory system diseases. High temperature only interacted with PM10 and SO2 on the risk of death from circulatory diseases.Conclusions: The lag effect of air pollutants was different, and the temperature had a synergistic effect with them, suggesting that health benefits would be achieved by paying more attention to the air pollutants for hospitals, governments as well as the public.
Hazard Assessment of Debris-Flow Prone Watersheds in Cubatão, São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Veloso Vinicius Queiroz , Reis Fabio , Cabral Victor , Zaine José , Corrêa Claudia , Gramani Marcelo , Kuhn Caiubi
Published: May 2022

In Brazil, research related to the occurrence and prevention of debris flows is incipient when compared to the extent of the impacts caused by the phenomena. There is a need for more studies that consider their susceptibility and hazard, especially in areas that are environmentally and socioeconomically vulnerable. This study aims at assessing debris-flow hazard in the Rio das Pedras watershed, in Cubatão (São Paulo State, Brazil), based on a set of different physiographic parameters (geomorphological, morphometric, geological) and the application of empirical models. The hazard assessment was based on: (i) the evaluation of the history of events in the region; (ii) the identification of the geomorphic controlling factors; (iii) the estimation of the magnitude of a potential event and, (iv) the identification of the elements at hazard. The results show that a debris-flow event in Rio das Pedras would more severely impact the Anchieta Highway (SP-150), the gas pipeline GASAN, the oil pipeline OSSP, and the districts Pinhal do Miranda and Cota 95. The results showed the relevance of geomorphological and geological parameters in estimating the magnitude of debris runoff for defining the danger in watersheds susceptible to the occurrence of debris flows.
Prophyromonas gingivalis promotes the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma by activating the neutrophil chemotaxis in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Guo Zhichen , Jing Si-li , Jumatai Sakendeke , Gong Zhong-cheng
Published: May 2022

Background: We aimed to determine the significance of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) in promoting tumour progression in the tumour microenvironment (TME) of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methods: The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) was used to screen out the differentially expressed genes from the two datasets of GEO138206 and GSE87539. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analysis of samples, cell biological behaviour experiments, and tumour-bearing animal experiments were used to verify the results in vivo and in vitro. The mechanism was revealed at the molecular level, and rescue experiments were carried out by using inhibitors and lentiviruses. Results: CXCL2 was selected by bioinformatics analysis and was found to be related to a poor prognosis in OSCC patients. Samples with P. gingivalis infection in the TME of OSCC had the strongest cell invasion and proliferation and the largest tumour volume in tumour-bearing animal experiments and exhibited JAK1/STAT3 signalling pathway activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The expression of P. gingivalis, CXCL2 and TANs were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in OSCC patients. A CXCL2/CXCR2 signalling axis inhibitor significantly decreased the invasion and proliferation ability of cells and the tumour volume in mice. When lentivirus was used to block the CXCL2/CXCR2 signalling axis, the activity of the JAK1/STAT3 signalling pathway was decreased, and the phenotype of EMT was reversed. Conclusion: P. gingivalis promotes OSCC progression by recruiting TANs via activation of the CXCL2/CXCR2 axis in the TME of OSCC.
Phosphonium Modified Nanocellulose Membranes with High Permeate Flux and Antibacterial Property for Oily Wastewater Separation
Authors: Peng Kun , Wang Chenglong , Chang Chunyu , Peng Na
Published: May 2022

Nanocellulose membranes could efficiently separate oily wastewater because of their superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic property and nanoporous structure. However, the practical application and storage of nanocellulose membranes were limited by their low water permeation flux and easy corrosion by bacteria, respectively. Herein, nanocellulose membranes with high permeate flux and antibacterial property were fabricated by grafting tetrakis(hydroxymethyl) phosphonium chloride (THPC) onto the surface of tunicate cellulose nanofibers (TCNFs) via esterification reaction. The introduction of THPC groups with tetrahedral structure on the surface of TCNFs significantly improved the pore size and interlayer space of nanocellulose membranes, resulting in the increasing of water permeation flux. These THPC@TCNF membranes were superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic, which could effectively separate various oil/water nanoemulsion. Moreover, THPC@TCNF membranes possessed excellent durability, mechanical stability, and cycling performance. Due to the presence of positively charged phosphonium groups, THPC@TCNF membranes exhibited excellent antibacterial property against B. subtilis that is a typical Gram-positive bacterium presenting in oily wastewater. This works provided a facile method to endow nanocellulose membrane with high permeate flux and antibacterial property.
Improved efficiency of callus induction, bud differentiation, and p lant regeneration in radish (Raphanus sativus L.)
Authors: Li ChangMan , Gao Jian , Li WenBo , Fang Ping , Liu Yi , Wang ChuanYi , Chen Fa-Bo
Published: May 2022

Radish (Raphanus sativus L.), a biennial root vegetable crop belonging to the Brassicaceae family, is an economically important vegetable grown worldwide. Radish is a recalcitrant variety for embryogenic callus induction that does not result in an efficient genetic transformation system. In this study, an efficiency regeneration system of callus induction and bud differentiation in radish was established using cotyledons explants. Among the 13 types of explants (epicotyl, cotyledon leaves, cotyledons with petioles, petioles of cotyledons, euphylls, petioles of euphylls, ovaries, pericarps, immature embryos, mature embryos, stems, stems with buds, and terminal buds), cotyledon leaves had the highest induction rate (91.01%) and were the most suitable explant. In addition, the optimal conditions for callus induction was MS-1 medium supplemented with 0.2 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 0.5 mg/L thidiazuron (TDZ), 0.2 mg/L α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), 4 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA), 0.1 mg/L kinetin, 8 g/L agar, and 3 g/L sugar, with a callus induction rate of 94.77%. Moreover, the best medium for shoot regeneration was MS-1 medium supplemented with 1 mg/L TDZ, 1 mg/L 6-BA, 8 g/L agar, and 3 g/L sugar, with a bud regeneration rate of 15.54%. The most suitable medium of rooting was 1/2 MS-1 medium fortified with 0.2 mg/L NAA, 0.2 mg/L 3-indolebutyric acid, 0.1% activated carbon, 8 g/L agar, and 3 g/L sugar, achieving a rooting ratio of 89.05% and transplanting survival rate survival ratio of 94.92%. This study lays a good foundation for future breeding and molecular studies of radishes.
AuthROS: A Secure and Convenient Framework for Data Sharing among Robot Operating Systems (ROS)
Authors: Zhang Shenhui , Tao Songjing , Li Xiulai , Wu Shuang , Tang Ming , Tang Zeping , Liang Zhixuan , Liu Bernie
Published: May 2022

Robot Operating System (ROS) has brought great potential for automation in all fields involved in production activities, which greatly improves productivity and simplifies operations that belonged to humans originally. However, ROS is highly dependent on communication but lacks secure data sharing mechanisms. Therefore, when it comes to multi-robots interaction scenarios, there are severe challenges in ensuring the safe and trustworthy exchange of specified confidential data among multi-robots. The reliability of data also needs to be considered carefully. This paper proposes a solution to this problem based on blockchain technology. We present a general secure and convenient authorization framework named AuthROS for ROS nodes with absolute security and high availability based on private Ethereum network and SM algorithms. This framework is capable of meeting the requirements for immutability and security of confidential data exchange in nodes of ROS of any size. An authority granting and identity identifying mechanism is proposed and integrated into the Ethereum smart contract to execute atomically to ensure the trustworthiness exchange of data and no third-party participation. At the same time, a key exchange based on SM2 and plaintext encryption mechanism based on SM4 is proposed to ensure the data transmission security. Furthermore, a data digest uploading scheme is adopted to improve the efficiency of querying and data uploading to the Ethereum network. Based on all of mechanisms mentioned above, AuthROS can play a role in the scenario where data transmitted among robots need to be recorded and maintain immobility. Experimental results demonstrated that AuthROS is equipped with excellent security, good time performance along with Nodes Forging resistance. We believe that AuthROS is the first secure data sharing framework for Robots loaded with ROS. We open sourced AuthROS at https://github.com/RobAI-Lab/ROS-Chain.
The expected environmental impact of the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project on the level of air quality
Authors: Al-Asqa Amanah , Al-Muqari Mohammed Saad , Al-Turki Afnan Abdullah
Published: May 2022

This paper study King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project in Riyadh. Its expected impact on reducing air pollution and raising its quality level in 2030. Without a doubt, transportation is one of the basic pillars of sustainable development; nevertheless, it is one of the most important sources of air pollution. The main objectives of the study: identifying the current situation of air pollution in Riyadh, reviewing the efforts of the authority to improve the air quality, estimating the size of the population and expected daily trips in 2020 and 2030, and determining the project's expected effects on air quality. The result estimated the population of Riyadh is expected to reach about (7.8) million in 2020 and rise to about (10.4) million in 2030. As for the number of daily trips is expected to reach more than (9) million trips in 2020 and rise to more than (12) million trips in 2030. It is expected that the implementation of the KAPTP will start in 2022. Furthermore, it is expected that about 20% of daily trips will change after operating the project, and the alteration will increase to about 25% in 2030. Therefore, the project is expected to reduce air pollution by about 30% after operating the project, and then to about 40% in 2030. The study recommends preparing an extensive media plan to prepare the community, encourage it to use public transport, and study public transport tariffs and motivate public transport by imposing fees for using roads and parking lots.
Identification and In Vitro and In Vivo Validation of the Key Role of GSDME in Pyroptosis-Related Genes Signature in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Xinyi , Tu Jingyao , Wang Lu , Zhou Xiao , Yuan Xianglin
Published: May 2022

We used pyroptosis-related genes to establish a risk–score model for prognostic prediction of liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) patients. A total of 52 pyroptosis-associated genes were identified. Then, data for 374 LIHC patients and 50 normal individuals were acquired from the TCGA database. Through gene expression analyses, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined. The 13 pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) confirmed as potential prognostic factors through univariate Cox regression analysis were entered into Lasso and multivariate Cox regression to build a PRGs prognostic signature, containing four PRGs (BAK1, GSDME, NLRP6 and NOD2) determined as independent prognostic factors. mRNA levels were evaluated by qRT-PCR while overall survival (OS) rates were evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Enrichment analyses were done to establish the mechanisms associated with differential survival status of LIHC patients from a tumor immunology perspective. Additionally, a risk score determined by the prognostic model could divide LIHC patients into low- and high-risk groups using median risk score as cut-off. A prognostic nomogram, derived from the prognostic model and integrating clinical characteristics of patients, was constructed. The prognostic function of the model was also validated using GEO, ICGC cohorts and online databases including Kaplan-Meier Plotter and GEPIA. Small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of GSDME as well as lentivirus mediated GSDME knockdown were performed to validate that knockdown of GSDME markedly suppressed growth of HCC cells both in vivo and in vitro. Collectively, our study demonstrated a PRGs prognostic signature which had great clinical value in prognosis assessment.
Analysis of differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs in LPS-induced human HMC3 microglial cells
Authors: Baek Mina , Chai Jin Choul , Choi Hae In , Yoo Eunyoung , Binas Bert , Lee Young Seek , Jung Kyoung Hwa , Chai Young Gyu
Published: May 2022

Background: The human microglial HMC3 cell line assumes an inflammatory phenotype when challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as key modulators of immune system by regulating the expression of inflammatory genes. Here, we identified the differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DElncRNAs) and correlated DEmRNAs and explored their potential roles and interactions using bioinformatics tools such as gene ontology (GO), kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA).Results: We identified 5 DElncRNAs and 99 DEmRNAs including 4 novel DElncRNAs (AC083837.1, IRF1-AS1, LINC02605, and MIR3142HG) in microglia. The DElncRNAs with their correlated DEmRNAs fell into two network modules that both were enriched with inflammation-related RNAs. However, treatment with the anti-inflammatory agent JQ1, an inhibitor of the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) protein BRD4, neutralized the LPS effect in only one module, showing little or even enhancing effect on the other. Conclusions: These results provide insight into, and a resource for studying, the regulation of microglia-mediated neuro-inflammation and its potential therapy by small-molecule BET inhibitors.
The Comparison of Family Function and Related Factors in First-Child Infertile Women and Second-Child Infertile Women after “Two-Child” Policy in China
Authors: Qiu Tian , Tan Jianyu , Ma Zhi , Zhao Yong , Wang Wenling , Jiang Huimin , Wang Fengdi , Chen Yuelu , Han Ting-Li , Yang Yang , Wang Lianlian
Published: May 2022

Background: The rising prevalence of infertility rates worldwide has had a significant impact on individuals, couples, and families. This study examines how infertility affects family functions in China under the newly implemented two-child policy. We compared family function in first-child infertile (FI) and second-child infertile (SI) women.Methods: This study included 572 infertile women of childbearing age, composed of 337 first-child infertile women and 235 second-child infertile women in a reproductive medical center in Chongqing, China, between Feb 2016 and Dec 2018. The Family Assessment Device (FAD) and Family Cohesion And Adaptability Evaluation Scale II (FACES II) scores were used to assess family perception. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 was used to assess depression (PHQ-9). Results: The demographic statistics of our sample showed the age of FI was 33.26±3.46, while the SI was 36.68±5.01. 46% of FI women are the only child, while 23.8% of SI women are the only child (P＜0.001). FI women had higher levels of education than SI women (P＜0.001). FI women made higher incomes than SI did (P＜0.001). The psychiatric diagnostics showed that 170(50.4%) of FI families and 157(66.8%) of SI families had a poor family function (P＜0.001). We found that infertility women with lower levels of education and family income are more likely to have an unhealthy family function (P＜0.05) based on the correlation analysis (P＜0.05). The total score of PHQ-9 is related to the family function (P＜0.05).Conclusions: The socio-demographical statistics show SI women have lower family monthly income and lower education levels than FI individuals. SI women obtained worse scores and more family dysfunction rates regarding family functioning. The study indicated that infertile families generally have higher risks in family functioning, family cohesion, and family adaptability. Counselors and psychologists can be deployed in infertility centers to screen people with family problem risks from the beginning and perform early interventions to improve family problems.
Paths to annihilation: Genetic and demographic consequences of range contraction patterns
Authors: Rogan Jordan E. , Parker Mickey Ray , Hancock Zachary B. , Earl Alexis D. , Buchholtz Erin K. , Chyn Kristina , Martina Jason , Fitzgerald Lee A.
Published: May 2022

Species range contractions both contribute to, and result from, biological annihilation, yet do not receive the same attention as extinctions. Range contractions can lead to marked impacts on populations but are usually characterized only by reduction in extent of range. For effective conservation, it is critical to recognize that not all range contractions are the same. We propose three distinct patterns of range contraction: shrinkage, amputation, and fragmentation. We tested the impact of these patterns on populations of a generalist species using forward-time simulations. All three patterns caused 86-88% reduction in population abundance and significantly increased average relatedness, with differing patterns in declines of nucleotide diversity (π) relative to the contraction pattern. The fragmentation pattern resulted in the strongest effects on post-contraction genetic diversity and structure. Defining and quantifying range contraction patterns and their consequences for Earth’s biodiversity would provide useful and necessary information to combat biological annihilation.
Primeval Aptian marine incursions in the interior of Northeastern Brazil following the Gondwana breakup
Authors: Fauth Gerson , Kern Henrique Parisi , Villegas-Martín Jorge , Mota Marcelo Augusto de Lira , Filho Marcos Antonio Batista dos Santos , Catharina Amanda Santa , Leandro Lilian Maia , Luft-Souza Fernanda , Strohschoen Oscar , Nauter-Alves Andressa , Tungo Edna de Jesus Francisco , Bruno Mauro Daniel Rodrigues , Ceolin Daiane , Baecker-Fauth Simone , Bom Marlone Heliara Hüning , Lima Francisco Henrique de Oliveira , Assine Mario Luis
Published: May 2022

This study reports a set of primeval marine incursions identified in the two drill cores (1PS-06-CE and 1PS-10-CE) recovering the Barbalha Formation, Araripe Basin, Brazil. Based on multi-proxy approach involving stratigraphy, microbiofacies, ichnofossils, and microfossils found in the Barbalha Formation, three short-lived marine incursions were identified, designated Araripe Marine Incursions (AMI). The AMI-1 and AMI-2, which occur within the shaly Batateira Beds (lower part of the Barbalha Formation), were identified through the occurrence of benthic foraminifera, calcareous nannofossils, dinocysts, and a mass mortality event of non-marine ostracods. The AMI-3 is recorded in the upper part of the Barbalha Formation and its identification was based on occurrence of ichnofossils and planktic foraminifers. The presence of planktic foraminifera genus Leupoldina suggests, for the first time in the basin, an early Aptian/early late Aptian age for the deposits and allows correlation of this unit with global foraminifera biozonation. Our findings have implications for the breakup of the Gondwana Supercontinent, as these incursions represent the earliest marine-derived flooding in the inland basins of Northeastern Brazil.
The typical Organic pollutants Survey and Health Risk Assessment Of the main Source Water In Huaihe River Basin
Authors: Gao Jijun , Liu Linghua , Liu Xiaoru , Wang Qiwen , Liu Laisheng , Lao Tianying
Published: May 2022

Background: Because of the rapid development of economy and explosion of city population, The Huaihe River basin was much more polluted among the seven largest basins in China, the organic pollutants could probably affect the drinking water safety of people in the Huaihe River basin. In this paper, the current state of knowledge on occurrence and health risk are presented and used to conduct health risks assessment of source water in the Huaihe River basin posed by Benzene homology, Chlorobenzene compounds, organophosphorous pesticides, and Nitrobenzene compounds, total 17 compounds.Result:The key findings from this review are that: (1) the concentrations of the 17 compounds in the fifty-one source water samples were all less than the standard limit values of Chinese surface water quality standard; (2) the benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene, dichlorvos and demeton were more frequently detected in the main source water of Huaihe River basin; (3)the detection rates of dichlorvos, demeton, benzene, toluene and isopropylbenzene are all much higher than 80% in the fifty-one source water sample points; (4) the noncarcinogenic risk HQ values of the target compounds were less than one, and the cancer risk values of most source water sites were much less than the 1×10-6.Conclusion: The results of detection rate of target compounds suggested that the pollution of typical organic pollutants had been popular in the source water of the Huaihe River basin, while the concentrations data of Benzene homology, Chlorobenzene compounds, organophosphorous pesticides, and Nitrobenzene compounds in the source water of the Huaihe river basin showed that the contamination status of these chemicals was at a low level. The health risk assessment results suggested that the noncarcinogenic risk HQ values of the target compounds were less than one, and the cancer risk values of most source water sites were much less than the 1×10-6, which indicated that the heath risk produced by the target compounds in the most source water sites of the Huaihe river basin was in an acceptable level.
The perception of COVID-19, the Light Triad, harmony and ethical sensitivity in late adolescents: The role of meaning-making and stress
Authors: Krok Dariusz , Zarzycka Beata , Telka Ewa
Published: May 2022

Introduction: The experiences of inner harmony and ethical sensitivity among late adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic depend on the interplay of perceptive factors, personal resources and cognitive and stress mechanisms. Using a sample from Poland, the present study examined the relationships between the perceptions of COVID-19 and the Light Triad and the characteristics of inner harmony and ethical sensitivity from the mediational perspective of meaning-making and perceived stress. Methods: Three hundred and sixteen late adolescents were recruited in the cross-sectional study. The filled in questionnaires measuring the perception of COVID-19, the Light Triad, meaning-making, stress, inner harmony and ethical sensitivity, from April to September 2020. Results: The perception of COVID-19 was negatively related to ethical sensitivity, whereas the Light Triad was positively related to inner harmony and ethical sensitivity. Perceived stress and meaning-making mediated the relationships between the perceptions of COVID-19 and the Light Triad and the characteristic of inner harmony. Discussion: Perception processes and the Light Triad dimensions directly influence ethical sensitivity, as well as indirectly affect inner harmony through meaning-making processes and perceived stress. This noticeably highlights the vital role played by meaning structures and emotional reactions in the experience of inner peace and calmness.
Use of Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) in the UK for anterior open bite (AOB) correction: a national survey
Authors: Alshaibi Omar , Bearn David , Mossey Peter
Published: May 2022

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in TADs as a source of anchorage reinforcement in Orthodontics. On the other hand, the extent of the use of these devices for vertical anchorage in anterior open bite (AOB) treatment amongst orthodontists in the UK is unknown, especially among consultants and specialists who as well as providing care are responsible for teaching and passing clinical knowledge to the next generation of orthodontists. This survey aimed to identify how widely TADs are used in the treatment of AOB in the UK and to investigate the most important orthodontic diagnostic criteria for orthodontists in the treatment planning for AOB correction by using a short online questionnaire through the British orthodontic society (BOS). The response rate was 13.5% (134 out of 991) Among those 49 (36.5%) use TADs for vertical anchorage in the treatment of mild to moderate AOB, while 85 (63.4%) do not use them. Of those who use TADs, only 13 (26.5%) participants use them routinely and 35 (71.4%) use them occasionally, one responder did not complete this question. The results of this survey show that the use of TADs in the treatment of AOB cases in the UK is limited and the proportion of orthodontists using TADs routinely in AOB is very low (9.7%). The most important diagnostic criterion in treatment planning is ‘Vertical skeletal discrepancy’. The second diagnostic criterion is ‘Vertical skeletal discrepancy’. The third and fourth diagnostic criterion were ‘AOB in mms’ and ‘Age of patient’ respectively. At the bottom of the preference diagnostic criterion is ‘Anteroposterior skeletal discrepancy’ and ‘Upper and lower incisor inclination’
Elevated levels of Monocyte-lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-lymphocyte Ratio in adolescents with Non-suicidal Self-injury
Authors: Zheng Qi , Liu Jin , Ji YaJuan , Chen XinChao , Liu BangShan , Zhang Yan
Published: May 2022

Background:Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are blood indicators of systemic inflammation. This study aims to compare the levels of inflammatory indicators derived from blood routine tests between adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and those with non-NSSI.Methods：A total of 201 adolescents with mood or emotional disorders were enrolled in this study, among which 106 had engaged in NSSI and 95 had never engaged in NSSI. NLR, MLR, and PLR were calculated based on the complete blood cell count. Results：There was no significant difference in demographic data between the two groups. The NSSI group exhibited significantly higher MLR (P < 0.001) and PLR (P = 0.001) than the non-NSSI group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that MLR (OR 1.545, 95%CI [1.087-2.281], P = 0.021) and PLR (OR 1.327, 95%CI [1.215-1.450], P < 0.001) were independent predictors of NSSI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses demonstrated that for predicting NSSI, the optimal cut-off value of MLR was 0.135 and the area under curve was 0.638 ([0.561- 0.715], P < 0.001), with a sensitivity of 90.60% and a specificity of 33.70%; the optimal cut-off value of PLR was 127.505 and the area under curve was of 0.611 ([0.533-0.689], P < 0.001), with a sensitivity of 39.60% and a specificity of 81.10%.Conclusions:Systemic inflammation, as indicated by MLR and PLR, is elevated in adolescents with NSSI. MLR and PLR might serve as potential biomarkers in the assessment of NSSI in adolescents.
Dietary supplementation of bilberry anthocyanin on growth performance, intestinal mucosal barrier and cecal microbes of chickens challenged with Salmonella typhimurium
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Wang Yibing , Ye Jinling , Fan Qiuli , Lin Xiajing , Gou Zongyong , Jiang Shouqun
Published: May 2022

Background: The study objective was to investigate the protective effects of bilberry anthocyanin (AC) on growth performance, intestinal mucosal barrier and cecal microbes of chickens challenged with Salmonella.Methods: A total of 240 male hatchling chickens were randomly allocated to 4 treatments, each with 6 replicates. Birds were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0 (CON, and ST), 100 (ACL) and 400 (ACH) mg/kg of AC for 60 d, and orally challenged with 109 CFU/bird (ST, ACL, ACH) Salmonella typhimurium at 14 and 16 d, birds in CON were given the same volume of PBS.Results: (1) Dietary supplementation of AC significantly increased d 18 BW, and ADG from d 1 to 18, and significantly decreased the F/G from d 1 to 18, d 1 to 28, d 1 to 60 (P<0.05); (2) At d 18, AC increased (P<0.05) the number of Salmonella in the liver and spleen of chickens; (3) AC decreased (P<0.05) plasma NO and ileal IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IFN-β, and IFN-γ; (4) AC also significantly increased ileal villus height (ACL, ACH), the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (ACH) and significantly decreased crypt depth (ACH). AC increased (P<0.05) the expression of Claudin-1 and Muc2 (ACL), ZO-1 and Occludin (ACH) as well; (5) Analysis of cecal microbes indicated that AC had a significant effect on principal co-ordinates and increased the alpha-diversity indexes (Chao, Pd, Shannon and Sobs) (P < 0.05). At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Firmicutes (ACL, ACH) was increased (P<0.05), and the relative abundance of Proteobacteria (ACL, ACH) and Bacteroidota (ACL) was decreased (P<0.05). At the genus level, AC decreased (P<0.05) the relative abundances of Bacteroides and Escherichia-Shigella, and increased (P<0.05) the relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Clostridia_UCG-014, Lachnospiraceae, and Shuttleworthia. Conclusion: Dietary AC prevented Salmonella infection in chicken via inhibiting the Salmonella colonization in liver and spleen, suppressing secretion of inflammatory factors, up-regulating the expression of ileal mucosal tight junction and mucin proteins, and ameliorating the composition of cecal microbes. Under the circumstance of this experiment, 100 mg/kg bilberry anthocyanin was recommended for chickens.
Blood Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in People with Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shobeiri Parnian , Ashourizadeh Helia , Pasha Boshra Akbarzadeh , Haghshomar Maryam , Jouzdani Tahmineh , Teixeira Antônio L. , Rezaei Nima
Published: May 2022

Background: Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune demyelinating disease marked by the involvement of multiple pathophysiological pathways, including BDNF. BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) is one of the main neurotrophic factors in the adult brain. The amount of BDNF in the blood can be utilized as a surrogate for the central expression of this marker. Given contradicting reports, we set out to answer the question, “How do blood levels of BDNF differ in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) compared to controls?”Methods: We performed a thorough search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases, resulting in 13 eligible investigations. Eleven studies compared BDNF in serum of PwMS versus healthy controls (HC), and two studies provided BDNF levels in the plasma of PwMs. R version 4.0.4 was used for meta-analysis and visualizations. Mean difference (MD) was used for the measurement of effect size.Results: The final analysis included thirteen studies with 689 patients with MS and 583 controls. The preliminary results indicated that MS patients had statistically significant lower levels of BDNF than controls: SMD -5.1992 (95% CI [-8.4488; -1.9496], p-value < 0.0001. Additionally, subgroup analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in serum and plasma levels (p-value=0.01). Performing univariate meta-regression, disease duration and the proportion of males had, respectively, a significant negative and positive correlation with BDNF levels.Conclusion: Circulating levels of BDNF are decreased in MS. Future studies should investigate the role of BDNF as a biomarker of disease severity and/or progression for a personalized approach to MS.
Intestine and brain TLR-4 modulation following N-Acetyl-Cysteine treatment in NEC rodent model
Authors: Beloosesky Ron , Gutzeit Ola , Ginsberg Yuval , Khatib Nizar , Ross Michael G. , Zeev Weiner , zmora Osnat
Published: May 2022

Objective: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) brain injury is mediated through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on the intestinal epithelium and on brain microglia. We sought to determine whether postnatal and/or prenatal NAC can modify NEC associated intestinal and brain TLR4 expression and brain glutathione levels in a rat model of NEC.Study Design: Newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into 3 groups: Control (n=33); NEC (n=32) subjected to hypoxia and formula feeding; NEC-NAC (n=34) received NAC (300mg/kg IP) in addition to NEC conditions. Two additional groups included pups of dams who were treated once daily with NAC (300mg/kg IV) for the last 3 days of pregnancy: NAC-NEC (n=33) or NAC-NEC-NAC (n=36) with additional postnatal NAC. Pups were sacrificed on the fifth day, ileum and brains harvested for TLR-4 and glutathione protein levels. Results: NEC offspring had significantly increased brain and ileum TLR-4 protein levels compared to control (brain 2.5+0.6 vs 0.88+0.12 U; ileum 0.24+0.04 vs 0.09+0.01 U, p<0.05). NAC administered only to dams (NAC-NEC) significantly decreased NEC offspring brain (1.53+0.41 vs 2.5+0.6 U; p<0.05) and ileum (0.12+0.03 vs 0.24+0.04 U; p<0.05) TLR-4 protein levels compared to NEC. The same pattern was demonstrated when NAC was administered only or also postnatally. The decrease in offspring brain glutathione levels observed under NEC condition was reversed with all NAC treatment groups.Conclusion: NAC could reverse the increase in ileum and brain TLR-4 levels and the decrease in brain glutathione levels associated with NEC in a rat model, and thus may protect from NEC associated brain injury.
Development and Utilization of Analytical Methods for Rapid GM Detection in Processed Food Products: A Case Study for Regulatory Requirement
Authors: Singh Monika , Paliwal Aparna , Kaur Kushaldeep , Palit Paramita , Randhawa Gurinderjit
Published: May 2022

Genetically modified (GM) food crops for desired traits have been approved in some of the countries. The approval status of a GM event varies from country to country. In India, Bt cotton is the only approved GM crop. So far, no GM food crop has got regulatory approval in the country, which may be considered as unauthorized GM (UGM) event in the Indian context. The entry of UGM events of food crops needs to be checked in the imported consignments as well as in the marketplace. In the present study, screening elements were identified based on the genetically modified organism (GMO) matrix developed as decision support system for 22 GM food crops approved globally. Three sets of multiplex PCR assays were developed and validated for GM detection in food crops and products: triplex PCR targeting control elements [Cauliflower Mosaic Virus 35S promoter (P-35S), Figwort Mosaic Virus promoter (P-FMV), nopaline synthase terminator (T-nos)], triplex PCR targeting marker genes [aminoglycoside-3’-adenyltransferase (aadA), neomycin phosphotransferase (nptII), phosphinothricin-N-acetyltransferase (pat)] and duplex PCR targeting Bt genes (cry1Ab/Ac and cry2Ab2). Limit of detection (LOD) ranged from 0.5 − 0.05% for different targets, which is in compliance with the labelling threshold of many countries. The developed assays were utilized to check the GM status of apple and maize products along with an additional test for ctp2-cp4epsps for herbicide tolerance in maize. These procedures could be efficiently employed as a part of GMO testing to trace GM contamination, if any, in both the imported as well as domestic food products.
Efficient Three Layer Secured Adaptive Video Steganography Method using Chaotic Dynamic systems
Authors: Kumar D , Sudha V K
Published: May 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Study on Camellia Sinensis Heavy Metal and Environmental Factors around Typical Mining Area
Authors: wang hongmei , wu jianfang , tian ziqiang , li yuting
Published: May 2022

There is limited information on heavy metal in green tea (Camellia sinensis) and the relating soil factors around the areas with high heavy metal exposure, such as mining area. It will bring some gaps on the safety control for tea planting soil. Therefore, this study is aimed to establish the relationships between tea heavy metal levels and the relating soil factors. Thirty two green tea samples were obtained, and then analysed. The average of the heavy metal in tea were expressed in mean±S.D. as Pb (2.60±3.63 mg/kg), Cd (0.23±0.36 mg/kg), Hg (0.01±0.00 mg/kg) and As (0.06±0.10 mg/kg), respectively. Correlations between tea heavy metal and the counterpart of tea extraction soaking in water were probed, and the strong positive verified as Pb (R2 0.91, p<0.01) and Cd (R2 0.98, p<0.01). Furthermore, the linear dynamic fitting was established to describe the both heavy metal in tea and tea extraction. Additionally, it addressed the view that the presence of soil Cd and Pb related to that of tea, even tea extraction solution. This study presents a novel insight into the method of establishing the relationship between heavy metal in tea extraction liquid, tea amount and the relating soil index, which also provide a perspective way for calculating the exposure amount of drinking tea.
Mesenchymal stem cells limit vascular and epithelial damage and restore the impermeability of the urothelium in chronic radiation cystitis
Authors: Brossard Clément , Pouliet Anne-Laure , Lefranc Anne-Charlotte , BENADJAOUD Mohamedamine , Santos Morgane Dos , DEMARQUAY Christelle , BUARD Valerie , Benderritter Marc , SIMON Jean Marc , MILLIAT Fabien , Alain Chapel
Published: May 2022

Background
Cellular therapy seems to be an innovative therapeutic alternative for which mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to be effective for interstitial and hemorrhagic cystitis. However, the action of MSCs on chronic radiation cystitis (CRC) remains to be demonstrated. The aim of this study was to set up a rat model of CRC and to evaluate the efficacy of MSCs and their mode of action.
Methods
CRC was induced by single-dose localized irradiation of the whole bladder using two beams guided by tomography in Sprague-Dawley rat. A dose range of 20 to 80 Gy with follow-up 3 to 12 months after irradiation was used to characterize the dose effect and the kinetics of radiation cystitis in rats. For the treatment, the dose of 40 Gy was retained, and in order to potentiate the effect of the MSCs, MSCs were isolated from adipose tissue. After expansion, they were injected intravenously during the pre-chronic phase. Three injections of 5 million MSCs were administered every fortnight. Follow-up was performed for 12 months after irradiation.
Results
We observed that the intensity and frequency of hematuria are proportional to the irradiation dose, with a threshold at 40 Gy and the appearance of bleeding from 100 days post-irradiation. The MSCs reduced vascular damage as well as damage to the bladder epithelium.
Conclusions
These results are in favor of MSCs acting to limit progression of the chronic phase of radiation cystitis. MSC treatment may afford real hope for all patients suffering from chronic radiation cystitis resistant to conventional treatments.