bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profile of cross-reactivity to common pollen allergens in Northwest China based on Component Resolved Diagnosis
Authors: Li Aoli , Huang Zhifeng , Ye Qingyuan , Zheng Xianhui , Zhang Jiale , Chen Tong , Luo Wenting , Sun Baoqing
Published: March 2024

The prevalence of allergic diseases such as Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma is steadily increasing globally, with pollen allergy being one of the most significant sensitizing factors. However, the cross-reactivity of different pollen allergies remains unclear, posing challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with multiple sensitivities. In this study, the Component Resolved Diagnosis technique was employed to simultaneously measure the specific IgE concentrations of 52 patients against Art and its components (Art v 1), Phl p and its components (Phl p 1/4/5/6/7/12), Bet v and its components (Bet v 1/2), Amb a and its component (Amb a 1), and Amb p. Additionally, sIgE inhibition tests were conducted for Art v, Phl p, and Bet v. Among Art v -positive patients, 64.6% showed positivity for Art v 1. In Phl p-positive patients, Phl p 12 had the highest positivity rate (75.0%). Among Bet v-positive patients, 75.6% exhibited positivity for Bet v 2, whereas for Amb a and Amb p-positive patients, 23.7% and 29.0% respectively showed positivity for Amb a 1. The sIgE inhibition assays results revealed that Art v had inhibition rates greater than 73.2% against Phl p and its component Phl p 12, as well as Bet v and its component Bet v 2. Simultaneously, Phl p had inhibition rates of 79.20% to 89.87% against Phl p 12 and Bet v. Bet v showed inhibition rates ranging from 11.9% to 59.8% against Phl p and Art v, with a better inhibition rate (76.80%) against Phl p 12. In conclusion, Art v 1 is identified as the principal component of Art v. The profilin proteins of Phl p and Bet v (Phl p 12 and Bet v 2), are implicated as potential cross-reactive elements contributing to polysensitization in patients with respiratory allergies in the Northwest region of China. This cross-reactivity leads to a shared sensitization mechanism among pollen allergens such as Art v, Phl p, and Bet v.
Numerical study and optimum structural design on the characteristics of heat transfer and flow resistance in wavy tube exchanger
Authors: Cai Baowei , Huang Luqiong , Han Fanglin , Song Shidi , Wang Yicheng
Published: March 2024

Performances of heat transfer and flow resistance in the wavy tube heat exchanger were explored numerically by different turbulence models and near wall treatments in Fluent referring to the experiment of single tube exchanger. On the basis of this, further research on the flow field distribution, secondary flow, structure sensibility, modification and optimization were carried out. The results suggest that, RNG k-ε model with enhanced wall treatment is identified to provide superior predictions in several ways. In virtue of the peculiar structure, the coefficient of heat transfer and resistance ascends enormously. Secondary flow vortexes turn up and evolve since extremely low Re, and give rise to the variation of heat transfer and resistance. In low Re, heat transfer performance is only concerned with bending degree, while it rests upon both bending degree and wavelength in high Re. Besides, supplementing an appropriate changeover segment can improve the comprehensive performance apparently. It is hopeful that the results may provide a reference to the design of exchanger for heat transfer enhancement.
Psychiatrists effect on symptom severity during pharmacotherapy for first episode psychosis patients
Authors: de Beer Franciska , Koops Sanne , Schoevers Robert A. , Veling Wim , Beveren Nico van , de Haan Lieuwe , Boonstra Nynke , Kikkert Martijn , Begemann Marieke J.H. , Lokkerbol Joran , Sommer Iris E.C.
Published: March 2024

Clinical outcome after a first episode psychosis (FEP) is heterogeneous. Many patient-related factors such as gender and comorbidity have been studied to predict outcome. However, psychiatrist-related factors, such as the therapeutic relationship and prescription behaviour, have received little attention. We assessed the psychiatrist effect on psychosis severity and daily functioning during one year, in 201 patients remitted from FEP, treated by 18 different psychiatrists. We controlled for baseline severity, dose and type of antipsychotic medication, frequency of visits, and patients’ education. Symptom severity, daily functioning and antipsychotic drug use were assessed at baseline and after 3, 6, and, 12 months follow-up. We found a psychiatrist effect of 9.1% explained variance on symptom severity and of 10.1% on daily functioning. These effects persisted even when controlling for factors such as baseline severity and the prescribed dose. The effect of prescribed dose differed between psychiatrists. Treatment centre, session frequency, and medication nonadherence were not related to symptom severity. Our results emphasize the importance of individual psychiatrist factors in symptomatic outcomes after FEP. Further identification of psychiatrist-related factors such as the quality of therapeutic alliances and shared decision making, may optimize psychiatrists’ training with the goal to improve patient outcomes.
Targeted Stimulation of the Sensory Afferents Improves Motoneuron Function in Humans With Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Capogrosso Marco , Prat-Ortega Genis , Ensel Scott , Donadio Serena , Borda Luigi , Boos Amy , Yadav Prakarsh , Verma Nikhil , Ho Jonathan , Frazier-Kim Sarah , Fields Daryl , Fisher Lee , Weber Douglas , Duong Tina , Weinstein Steve , Eliasson Mikael , Montes Jacqueline , Chen Karen , Clemens Paula , Gerzsten Peter , Mentis George , Pirondini Elvira , Friedlander Robert
Published: March 2024

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is an inherited neurodegenerative disease causing motoneuron dysfunction, muscle weakness and early mortality1,2. Three therapies can slow disease progression enabling people to survive albeit with lingering motoneuron dysfunction and severe motor impairments3,4. Here we introduce a neurotechnological approach that improved spinal motoneuron function, muscle strength and walking in three adults with SMA. Starting from preclinical evidence showing that motoneuron dysfunction in SMA originates from the loss of excitatory inputs from primary afferents5,6, we hypothesized that augmentation of sensory neural activity with targeted electrical stimulation could compensate for this loss thereby improving motoneuron function. To test this hypothesis we implanted three adults with SMA with epidural electrodes over the lumbosacral spinal cord to stimulate the sensory axons of the legs7,8. We stimulated participants for 4 weeks 2 hours per day while they executed walking and strength tasks. Remarkably, our neurostimulation regime led to robust improvements in strength, walking and fatigue paralleled by reduced neuronal hyperexcitability, increased sensory inputs and higher motoneuron firing rates. Our data indicates that targeted neurostimulation can reverse degenerative processes of circuit dysfunction thus promoting disease modifying effects in a human neurodegenerative disease.
Unveiling the Forces Behind BSA Aggregation in a Microfluidic Chip
Authors: Haghparas Zahra , Tabalvandani Mohammadjavad Bouloorchi , Arghavani Payam , Hosseini Soroush Behjati , Badieirostami Majid , Habibi-Rezaei Mehran , Movahedi Ali Akbar Moosavi
Published: March 2024

Microfluidic chips are powerful tools for investigating protein aggregation. They can be used to study the effects of various variables on protein aggregation, including chemical and physical properties. This study investigated the aggregation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) in two different systems: a bulk system (vial) and a microfluidic chip in which BSA aggregation was induced successfully. Since BSA aggregation in bulk has been thoroughly investigated elsewhere, this study focused on elucidating the forces that drive BSA aggregation in a microfluidic chip designed explicitly for this purpose. This investigation employed a combination of experimental approaches, including biophysical and microscopic methods, and computational simulations using MATLAB and COMSOL Multiphysics. Obtained results revealed that heating provided the necessary energy for BSA's partial thermal unfolding from the onset. In the following, Brownian movement, space restriction, and a high molecular density within the microchannel cross-section contributed to forming clusters akin to the native BSA in the first few seconds. Subsequently, due to the further Brownian movement, intermolecular interactions, and hydrodynamic forces (including shear force), these clusters formed larger aggregates that deposited on the channel sidewalls and underwent a structural conversion, forming amyloid-like fibrillary aggregates within a few seconds.
Khat chewing predisposed to common mental disorders, while physical activity was protective: a binary logistic regression analysis, Somaliland, 2023
Authors: Sulub Abdisalan , Gebremariam Tewelde Tesfaye
Published: March 2024

Common mental disorder (CMD) is one of the leading causes of disability. However, its prevalence and determinants are not well known in Somaliland. Hence, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of CMD and its associated factors among adult residents of Hargeisa, Somaliland. Data was collected from 398 adult residents of Hargeisa via digital interview-administered, adapted questionnaires during August 2023. Multi-stage sampling was used to draw study respondents. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) was used to screen CMD. Binary logistic regression was conducted, and odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The prevalence of common mental disorder (CMD) was 47.5% (95% CI: 42.5–52.5), which was significantly higher among men (51.5%; 95% CI: 46.0–57.1) than women (29.2%; 95% CI: 19.0–41.1) (χ2 = 11.83, p = 0.001). People who chewed khat were 2.3 times more likely to have CMD than those who did not (OR = 2.28; 95% CI = 1.16–4.50; p = 0.017); however, physical exercise was a significant protective factor for CMD development (OR = 0.43; 95% CI =0.22–0.82, p < 0.05). In conclusion, CMD was highly prevalent in Hargeisa. Chewing khat was linked to a higher incidence of CMD, although physical activity provided protection against it. Hence, regular screening and appropriate community-based intervention of CMD is essential. Besides, government initiatives should establish drug rehab centres to treat khat abuse and addiction.
Integrating Data Mining, Deep Learning, and GeneOntology Analysis for Gene Expression-BasedDisease Diagnosis Systems
Authors: Babichev Sergii , Liakh Igor , Škvor Jíří
Published: March 2024

The manuscript details the outcomes of a comprehensive study on the application of cluster-bicluster analysis, gene ontology analysis, and convolutional neural network (CNN) for diagnosing cancer and Alzheimer’s disease using gene expression data derived from both DNA microarray experiments and mRNA sequencing. It outlines a conceptual framework and provides a block diagram of the stepwise procedure for analyzing gene expression data, aiming to enhance the accuracy and objectivity of disease diagnosis. The research methodology involves initial gene ontology analysis, followed by the application of the Self Organizing Tree Algorithm (SOTA) for clustering gene expression profiles, an ensemble algorithm for data biclustering, and CNN for sample classification. Bayesian optimization method was employed to determine the optimal hyperparameters for all models. The analysis of simulation results demonstrates the high efficacy of the proposed approach. Specifically, for Alzheimer’s data, the number of genes analyzed was reduced from 44,662 to 4,004. Subsequent cluster-bicluster analysis divided this data into two subsets containing 1,158 and 2,846 genes, respectively. Classification accuracy for samples within these subsets reached 89.8% and 91.8%. In cancer data analysis, the gene count was reduced from 60,660 to 10,422, with 3,955 and 6,467 genes in the first and second clusters, respectively. The classification accuracy for these subsets was 97.4% and 97.6%, respectively. To our mind, the implementation of this model promises to significantly improve the efficacy of early diagnosis systems for complex diseases.
Is the interocular choroidal structure symmetrical in healthy people? Results of symmetry studies with different partitioning methods.
Authors: Liu Xinyue , Chen Sizhu , Li Mengyu , Mao Mingzhu , Wang Yiya , Wei Dingyang , Shen Yadan , Chen Li , Liu Yi , Ning Xinru , Guo Chuyun , Dong Wentao , Li Shuangle , Zhong Jie , Li Jie
Published: March 2024

Objective: To investigate the symmetry of the interocular choroidal structure in a healthy population by developing novel partitioning methods utilizing 120° ultra-wide field swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA).
Methods: This cross-sectional observational study enrolled 135 healthy volunteers (270 eyes) for single 24 mm × 20 mm SS-OCTA imaging of the fundus across a 120° FOV (field of view), centered on the macula. Various partitioning methods were designed to compare the interocular symmetry of choroidal structure.
Results: The interocular choroidal thickness among subjects exhibited symmetry in dichoptic, concentric circle, cruciform, and macular concentric circle + quadratic partitioning modalities. Otherwise, in the ETDRS partitioning, the mean choroidal thickness (MCT) of the right eye's upper macular epiretinal region (271.74±77.69 µm) was significantly greater than that in the left eye (263.94±75.37 µm), p = 0.019*. Furthermore, in the nine-partitioning method, the MCT of the left eye's temporal lateral region (212.44±48.41 µm) was higher than that in the right eye (208.58±46.53 µm), p= 0.048*.
Conclusion: Both the observation range and partitioning methods may influence the results of interocular symmetry in choroidal structure. Utilizing contemporary population data, our study reveals that newly developed partitioning methods show symmetrical choroidal thickness across eyes.
The wild emmer wheat grain protein content 5B QTL introgressed into bread wheat is associated with tolerance to nitrogen deficiency .
Authors: Govta Nikolai , Fatiukha Andrii , Govta Liubov , Pozniak Curtis , Distelfeld Assaf , Fahima Tzion , Beckles Diane , Krugman Tamar
Published: March 2024

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient for wheat growth and development, its deficiency negatively affects grain yield and grain protein content (GPC). We describe here the dissection of the high grain protein content (GPC) QTL (QGpc.huj.uh-5B.2) derived from chromosome 5B of tetraploid wild emmer wheat, after its introgression into bread wheat (Ruta) by marker assisted selection. The introgression line (IL99) grown for trait validation under three environments, had 33% higher GPC (p<0.05) compared to Ruta, only under low (LN) at the seedling stage. The pleiotropic effect of the QTL on tolerance to N deficiency was confirmed using a semi-hydroponic system under severe LN (10% N) at the seedlings stage. We further dissected the QTL by fine mapping which enabled to delimit the QTL region from ~ 28.55 Mb to a chromosomal segment of only ~ 1.29 Mb that was shared among 12 LN tolerant near-isogenic lines, and which all had the WEW haplotype. This region included 13 potential candidate genes for LN tolerance, annotated as associated with N-stress response (15-cis-ZETA-CAROTENE ISOMERASE), N transport (UREIDE PERMEASE1 and IMPORTIN SUBUNIT BETA-1), and six involved in stress responses (e.g., ATXR6, HISTONE-LYSINE N-METHYLTRANSFERASE), while two genes were uncharacterized. These candidate genes may improve tolerance to nitrogen deficiency and by extension, high nitrogen use efficiency and GPC in N deficient environments. Our study demonstrates the importance of WEW as a source of novel variation for genes and QTLs useful for a sustainable improvement tolerance to N deficiency in wheat.
Supernovae fireworks: Increased luminosity of galaxies ~500-800 Myr after the Big Bang
Authors: Khalbay Arman
Published: March 2024

Unraveling the problem of impossibly early galaxies, we propose a model in which a galaxy’s luminosity consistently depends on two types of stars that differ only in mass and thus have different types of their evolution. At the initial stage, up to 1 Gyr from the Big Bang, the luminosity is mostly determined by stars with masses greater than 8М🖸, which have a short life cycle and inevitably end their evolution with supernovae outbursts. But then, in the later Universe, the galaxy luminosity function (GLF) begins to depend on the much more numerous stars with masses less than 8М🖸, which continue on the main sequence. Thus, we find that the initial increased luminosity (“supernovae fireworks”) occurs at much lower galaxy masses. To evaluate the hypothesis, we propose an observational test, where we measure the luminosity irregularities (> 3σ) of those six too bright early galaxies, to be taken over a period of 8–12 months.
Comparison of Mallampati test with and without phonation for prediction of difficult airways on adult patient (Prospective observational study)
Authors: Yirga Samson , Markos Zekarias , Samuel Hirbo
Published: March 2024

Background
Mallampati test is one of the most widely used airway tests to predict laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation difficulties. The Mallampati test without phonation is routinely practiced, but its sensitivity in predicting difficult intubation is controversial.
Objective
To compare the Malampati test with and without phonation in predicting difficult laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation among adult elective surgical patients who underwent general anaesthesia.
Method
A hospital based cross-sectional study was performed on 258 adult elective surgery patients who required tracheal intubation at Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital. A systemic random sampling technique was employed to select study participant and the Mallampati test with and without phonation was performed during preoperative assessment. Then a laryngoscopic view was recorded at the time of tracheal intubation, and Mallampati test grades I and II were classified as easy, while grades III and IV were classified as difficult for tracheal intubation. The data was entered by Epi info and analysed with the statistics package of the social science software version 26. Statistical significance was defined at p-value of less than 0.05. This study used specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values as statistical measures.
Result
The prevalence of laryngoscopy and intubation difficulty was 13.6% and 10.5%, respectively. Mallampati test without phonation had a sensitivity of 82.9% and a specificity of 79.1% for difficult laryngoscope. And it had a sensitivity of 88.9%, a specificity of 87% for difficult intubation. MMT with phonation had a sensitivity of 74.3% and a specificity of 91.9% for difficult laryngoscopy and it had a sensitivity of 77.8% and specificity of 90% for difficult intubation.
Conclusion
Based on our study results, MMT with phonation has higher accuracy, specificity, and PPV in the prediction of difficult laryngoscopy and intubation than the non-phonation approach.
Functional Lower Extremity Strength Influences Stepping Strategy in Community-Dwelling Older Adults During Single and Dual-Task Walking
Authors: Peoples Brandon M. , Harrison Kenneth D. , Santamaria-Guzman Keven G. , Campos-Varga Silvia E. , Monaghan Patrick G. , Roper Jaimie A.
Published: March 2024

As age increases, a decline in lower extremity strength leads to reduced mobility and increased fall risks. This decline outpaces the age-related reduction in muscle mass, resulting in mobility limitations. Older adults with varying degrees of mobility-disability use different stepping strategies. However, the link between functional lower extremity strength and stepping strategy is unknown. Therefore, understanding how age-related reductions in functional lower extremity strength influence stepping strategy is vital to unraveling mobility limitations. Participants were recruited and tested at a local community event, where they were outfitted with IMUs and walked across a pressurized walkway. Our study reveals that older adults with normal strength prefer adjusting their step time during walking tasks, while those with reduced strength do not exhibit a preferred stepping strategy. This study provides valuable insights into the influence of functional lower extremity strength on stepping strategy in community-dwelling older adults during simple and complex walking tasks. These findings could aid in diagnosing gait deviations and developing appropriate treatment or management plans for mobility disability in older adults.
Exploring the Nexus of Topographical Factors and Agriculture: Identifying Suitable Land for Agriculture in Poonch District, Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Bose Mahalingam , Iqbal Zaffar , Irshad Tharayil
Published: March 2024

Agricultural land is essential for food production and income generation. The present study was conducted to understand the relationship between topographical factors and agricultural land and to identify suitable land for agriculture in the Poonch district. Eight topographical factors, such as elevation, slope, aspect, curvature, relief amplitude, standard deviation of elevation, topographical wet index, and solar radiation, were chosen for the study. Topographical information was extracted from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission Digital Elevation Model (SRTM DEM), and agricultural land was digitized from ArcGIS Pro base map and Google Earth high-resolution satellite images. The location entropy technique was used to determine the relationship between topographical factors and agricultural land. Suitable land for agriculture was identified through fuzzy overlay analysis in ArcGIS Pro using chosen parameters by considering the threshold value obtained in the location entropy. The findings revealed 34.98 square kilometers of suitable agricultural land. The survey among local farmers shows profitable agriculture in the region, and utilizing this suitable land could significantly improve farmers' livelihoods and the production of food grains. This specific area offers a promising opportunity for advanced farming techniques. Harnessing the potential of this identified area can enhance agricultural production, resulting in higher crop yields and economic benefits for the local farmers.
A Novel Optimization Method for the Drilling Process in Panel Furniture Production
Authors: Wang Guokun , Xiong Xianqing
Published: March 2024

The panel furniture industry is experiencing rapid development, with a growing focus on intelligent manufacturing and efficient production. However, in the process of upgrading the drilling process for panel furniture towards intelligentization, still lacks standard optimization methods. To address this issue, we conducted an analysis of the cabinet structure in panel furniture and propose a novel approach that utilizes matrices and sets to represent panel and drilling information, enabling efficient data analysis and subsequent optimization. Moreover, we introduce a comprehensive optimization method comprising the COING (a hierarchical clustering analysis method adapted for panel furniture based on the STING grid method) and AR (Association Rule) techniques, uncovering potential associations and relationships within datasets. To validate the efficacy of the proposed method, we implemented it in the production workshop of Company W. Experimental results demonstrate a 14.01% reduction in drilling frequency and a 3.869% improvement in drilling efficiency compared to traditional design methods. Our findings emphasize the practical significance of the proposed standard drilling optimization method in the panel furniture industry, effectively enhancing drilling efficiency and promoting the transition to intelligent manufacturing.
Development and validation of a higher- order thinking skills scale for major students in the interior design discipline for blended learning
Authors: Li Dandan , Meng Lingchao , Fan Xiaolei
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to develop a comprehensive scale for assessing higher- order thinking skills in interior design major students within the context of blended learning. Employing a mixed methods design, the research involved in-depth interviews with 10 education stakeholders to gather qualitative data, which informed the development of a 66-item soft skills assessment scale. The scale was administered to a purposive sample of 359 undergraduate students enrolled in an interior design program at a university in Henan, China. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were also conducted to evaluate the underlying factor structure of the scale. The findings revealed a robust four-factor model encompassing critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, teamwork skills, and practical innovation skills. The scale demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.948–0.966) and satisfactory convergent and discriminant validity. This scale provides a valuable instrument for assessing and cultivating higher- order thinking skills among interior design major students in blended learning environments. Future research can utilize the scale to examine factors influencing the development of these skills and inform instructional practices in the field.
Impact of Antihypertensive, Lipid-Lowering, and Antiplatelet Agents on Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Fatty Liver Disease and Diabetes
Authors: Cho Hyo Jung , Lee Eunyoung , Kim Soon Sun , Cheong Jae Youn
Published: March 2024

We evaluated the effects of antihypertensives, lipid-lowering agents, and antiplatelet medications on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk in patients with fatty liver disease (FLD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Data on 212,443 patients with FLD and T2D, obtained from the Korea Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, were analyzed. Cohort admission day was set as the date of the first oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) prescription. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that old age, male sex, chronic viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, insulin use, and calcium channel blockers (CCBs) were significantly correlated with a higher HCC risk, whereas statin, ezetimibe, and fibrate use was correlated with a lower risk of HCC development. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed according to usage of statin, fibrates, and CCB. Patients who used statins (hazard ratio (HR)=0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.42-0.80, P=0.001) and fibrates (HR=0.46, 95% CI=0.22-0.93, P=0.031) showed a significantly lower HCC risk even after PSM. CCB use was linked to an elevated HCC risk (HR=1.35, 95% CI=1.05-1.72, P=0.019). Statins and fibrates may offer protective effects against HCC development in patients with FLD and T2D, whereas CCBs may increase the risk. Thus, tailored medication strategies are required for the management of chronic conditions.
A highly sensitive dual-core D-Shape photonic crystal fiber based on surface plasmon resonance for methane sensing
Authors: xu hongzhi , feng yongkang , gan xiaoyong , jiang shubo
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a gas sensor that uses surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology and a novel D-type photonic crystal fiber (PCF) structure to detect methane. The sensor's double-sided, side-polished gas holes are the key components for achieving large-area contact with external methane gas. The coating material chosen to stimulate the SPR effect was a gold nanolayer. To increase the sensitivity of methane gas detection, the researchers used polysiloxane-doped cryptane E as a coating material. The study analyzed the sensor characteristics using finite element analysis (FEA) and numerical analysis to examine the effect of optical structure parameters on the sensor performance. The numerical results demonstrate that the sensor has a sensitivity of 11.52 nm/% and a FOM value of 0.409 when measuring methane gas in the concentration range of 0–3.5%. The curve fitted shows excellent linearity. The sensor is a promising technology for the future development of gas leakage detection due to its low cost, simplicity, and real-time detection capability.
Research on Multilateral Collaboration Strategies in Agricultural Seed Quality Assurance
Authors: Yanmei Wang , Yusheng Chen
Published: March 2024

Seeds, as the initial products in agricultural systems, play a pivotal role in ensuring quality, fundamental to national food security and sustainable agricultural development. This study introduces a concept integrating public governance and evolutionary game theory to construct a quadripartite evolutionary game model involving seed companies, certification agencies, farmers, and governmental departments. It considers the strategic choices of these stakeholders under varying economic motivations and market mechanisms, as well as the influence of external regulation and incentives on game strategies. The existence conditions for evolutionarily stable strategy combinations are determined using the Lyapunov first method, and MATLAB is employed for numerical simulation analysis to validate the game analysis under initial conditions. The simulation results reveal two potential equilibrium points corresponding to different strategic choices among stakeholders. The study finds that producing high-quality seeds and the refusal of certification agencies to engage in rent-seeking are crucial for ensuring seed quality. Additionally, the cost-benefit ratio of seed companies, the speculative cost of certification agencies, and the rights-protection cost of farmers are key determinants in the evolution of seed quality assurance strategies. This research also holds practical significance in enhancing seed quality assurance mechanisms and fostering sustainable development in agriculture.
Barriers and Facilitators to Implementing Evidence for Improving Medication Adherence in Elderly Patients with Hypertension: a scoping review
Authors: Zhang Jingying , Zhao Jingjing , Zhang Ying , Shi Tieying , Zhang Xiujie
Published: March 2024

Background
With the seriousness of global aging, hypertension has become a major health hazard for the elderly. Improving medication adherence is one of the measures to effectively control blood pressure, and although there has been a great number of publications on how to improve medication adherence in elderly hypertensive patients, implementation in real practice remains a challenge. Moreover, little attention has been paid to what exactly are the factors that influence the implementation of the evidence. The purpose of this review is to provide a systematic overview of the barriers and facilitators that influence the implementation of evidence for improving medication adherence in the elderly hypertensive patient.
Methods
This review is based on Arksey and O'Malley methodology and searched six electronic databases. Two independent reviewers were involved in the screening and graphing of the data. Findings were synthesized and categorized using the five domains of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).
Results
A total of 15 studies were included in the final review. Barriers and facilitators were mapped to constructs in 14 of the five domains of the CFIR. The most frequently cited barriers were mapped to constructs within the "intervention characteristics" domain. Similarly, the most frequently mentioned facilitators were derived from the "intervention characteristics". Overall, the intervention content of the existing studies was not generalizable and accessible, whereas other factors such as family involvement in the “process” were effective in facilitating the implementation of the evidence.
Conclusions
This review identifies barriers and facilitators in the implementation of evidence about improving medication adherence in the elderly hypertensive patient. Future research should focus more on how to intervene with barriers and facilitators so that they can actually be implemented to promote improved medication adherence in the elderly hypertensive population.
Awareness for artifacts in fluorescence microscopy of β-TCP
Authors: Waldmann By Marco , Bohner Marc , Baghnavi Anna , Riedel Bianca , Seidenstuecker Michael
Published: March 2024

Fluorescence analysis of β-TCP ceramics is often used to describe cells found on said ceramics. However, we found, to our knowledge, so far undescribed artifacts which might sometimes be hard to differentiate from cells due to shape and fluorescence behavior. We tried prolonged ultrasound washing as well as Technovit 9100 fixation to reduce these artifacts. While untreated dowels showed no reduction in artifacts no matter the further treatment, Technovit fixation reduced the artifacts with even further reduction achieved by mechanical cleaning. As a consequence, scientists working with these dowels and likely even other types should try to avoid creating false positive results by considering the existence of these artifacts, checking additional filters for unusual fluorescence and by reducing them by using Technovit fixation when possible.
Isolation rate and amtimicrobial susceptibility profile of Enterobacteriaceae isolated from wastewater of Jimma Medical Center, Jimma Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Hasen Husein , Beyene Getenet , Tiku Seid , Mekonnen Mekidim
Published: March 2024

Introduction.
Most hospitals and other health facilities in developing countries like Ethiopia lack wastewater treatment facilities and discharged their wastes into the surrounding water bodies without any form of treatment.
Objective
. The aim of this study is to determine the isolation rate and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Enterobacteriaceae isolated from Jimma Medical Center (JMC) wastewater.
Methodology.
A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2022 on 60 hospital wastewater samples collected from ten sampling sites at JMC. Isolation and identification of Enterobacteriaceae was performed based on standard bacteriological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were carried out using Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 and Microsoft Excel.
Results.
A total of seven genera of bacteria were isolated. Among the isolated bacteria E. coli 31(51.7%) and Klebssiella spp. 27(45.0%) were the predominant bacteria. The isolates showed comparably high resistance to Amoxicillin/Clavulinic acid (88.4%), Ampicillin (87.0%), Tetracycline (76.5%) and Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (71.9%). The majority of bacterial isolates 101/114(88.6%) were multidrug resistant (MDR).
Conclusion.
The majority of bacterial isolates were multidrug resistance, which act as a reservoir of resistant genes that can be transferred to other bacterial isolate. Therefore, establishing wastewater treatment plant is essential.
Variations in Photoperiods and Their Impact on Yield, Photosynthesis and Secondary Metabolite Production in Basil Microgreens
Authors: Fayezizadeh Mohammad Reza , Ansari Naser Alemzadeh , Sourestani Mohammad Mahmoodi , Hasanuzzaman Mirza
Published: March 2024

Background
The effects of different photoperiods on plant phytochemical synthesis can be improved by adjusting the daily light integral (DLI). Changes in the internal rhythm of the plant and the synthesis and performance of secondary metabolites are largely dependent on environmental factors that control growth, one of the most significant of which is photoperiod. Information about the appropriate standard in terms of photoperiod for growing basil microgreens as one of the most important medicinal plants is limited. In this study, the effects of five different photoperiods, 6 (6 hours × 3 cycles), 8 (8 hours × 2 cycles), 16, 18, and 24 h day− 1 on the yield, photosynthesis and synthesis of secondary metabolites of three cultivars and one genotype of basil microgreens were evaluated. The purpose of this research was to determine the feasibility of using permanent light in growing basil microgreens and to create the best balance between beneficial secondary metabolites and performance.
Results
The results showed that the effects of photoperiod and cultivar on all investigated traits and their interaction on photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic compounds, proline content and net photosynthesis rate were significantly different at the 1% level. The highest levels of vitamin C, flavonoids, anthocyanins, yield and antioxidant potential composite index (APCI) were obtained under the 24-h photoperiod. The highest antioxidant capacity was obtained for the Kapoor cultivar, and the highest total phenolic compound and proline contents were measured for the Ablagh genotype under a 24-h photoperiod. The highest yield (4.36 kg m− 2) and APCI (70.44) were obtained for the Ablagh genotype. The highest nitrate content was obtained with a photoperiod of 18 h for the Kapoor cultivar. The highest net photosynthesis rate was related to the Violeto cultivar under a 24-hour photoperiod (7.89 µmol Co2 m− 2 s− 1). Antioxidant capacity and flavonoids had a positive correlation with phenolic compounds and vitamin C. Yield had a positive correlation with antioxidant capacity, flavonoids, vitamin C, APCI, and proline.
Conclusions
Under continuous light conditions, basil microgreens resistance to light stress by increasing the synthesis of secondary metabolites and the increase of these biochemical compounds made basil microgreens increase their performance along with the increase of these health-promoting compounds. The best balance between antioxidant compounds and performance was achieved in continuous red + blue light. Based on these results, the use of continuous artificial LED lighting, due to the increase in plant biochemical with antioxidant properties and yield, can be a suitable strategy for growing basil microgreens in floating systems.
A general strategy for the synthesis of taxane diterpenes
Authors: Gaich Tanja , Pan Lu , Schneider Fabian , Ottenbruch Moritz , Wiechert Rainer , List Tatjana , Schoch Philipp , Mertes Bastian
Published: March 2024

The construction of molecular carbon frameworks stands as the
fundamental objective of organic chemistry. The carbon skeleton of each organic
molecule serves as the foundation for its three-dimensional structure, playing a pivotal
role in determining its physical and biological properties.1 Within the realm of
synthesis, the ability to access complex molecules while prioritizing skeletal
diversification serves as a crucial factor in advancing the frontiers of efficient synthetic
design.2-4 In line with this pursuit, our team has developed a versatile synthetic strategy
based on interconversion of complex molecular frameworks which enabled a
generalized access to the taxane diterpene family. A wide range of classical and
cyclotaxane frameworks was accessed including,among others, the first total syntheses
of taxinine K (2), canataxapropellane (5) and dipropellane C from a single advanced
intermediate. The synthetic approach deliberately eschews biomimicry, emphasizing
instead potency of stereoelectronic control in orchestrating the interconversion of
polycyclic frameworks.
Murine and human-purified very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) express purinergic receptors and migrate to extracellular ATP gradient.
Authors: Bujko Kamila , Brzezniakiewicz-Janus Katarzyna , Jarczak Justyna , Kucia Magdalena , Ratajczak Mariusz Z.
Published: March 2024

Purinergic signaling is an ancient primordial signaling system regulating tissue development and specification of various types of stem cells. Thus, functional purinergic receptors are present in several types of cells in the body, including multiple populations of stem cells. However, one stem cell type that has not been evaluated for expression of purinergic receptors is very small embryonic stem cells (VSELs) isolated from postnatal tissues. Herein, we report that VSELs purified human umbilical cord blood (UCB) and murine bone marrow (BM) express mRNA for P1 and P2 purinergic receptors and CD39 and CD73 ectonucleotidases converting extracellular ATP (eATP) into its signaling metabolite extracellular adenosine (eAdo), that antagonizes eATP effects. More importantly, we demonstrate that human and murine VSELs respond by chemotaxis to eATP, and eAdo inhibits this migration. These responses to eATP are mediated by activation of Nlrp3 inflammasome, and exposure of VSELs to its specific inhibitor MCC950 abolished the chemotactic response to ATP. We conclude that purinergic signaling plays an essential, underappreciated role in the biology of these cells and their potential role in response to tissue/organ injuries.
Mendelian randomized integration of GEO and eQTL data revealed genes associated with periodontitis
Authors: Jiang Zhong-Hui , Ni Xiao-Bing , Fu Qi-Cheng , Qiu Gui-Ying , Wei Yan-Hong , Song Yu-Hong , He Wei
Published: March 2024

Objective
With the development of genetics and epigenetics, there is increasing evidence that genetic changes influence susceptibility to periodontitis. In this study, Mendelian randomization was used in combination with multi-omics data to determine the causal effect of genes in periodontitis.
Methods
In this study, the RNA-seq dataset of periodontitis was downloaded from GEO database, and the differentially expressed genes in periodontitis were screened by differential analysis. The genes with significant causal relationship with periodontitis were screened by MR Analysis. Further, the differential expression of periodontitis genes and periodontitis-related genes were intersected to obtain the hub genes related to periodontitis. In addition, ROC curve, pearson correlation analysis and CIBERSORT algorithm were also used in this study to explore the efficiency of hub gene diagnosis and immune cell correlation analysis.
Results
Four hub genes (SELL, PLXDC2, C4A, and HSPG2) were obtained by differential expression analysis and MR Analysis in this study. Where HSPG2 (OR = 1.279, 95%CI: 1.087 to 1.504, P = 0.003) and PLXDC2 (OR = 1.259, 95%CI: 1.013 to 1.565, P = 0.038) were positively correlated with periodontitis. However, C4A (OR = 0.843 95%CI: 0.741 to 0.959, P = 0.009) and SELL (OR = 0.903, 95%CI: 0.825 to 0.989, P = 0.028) were negatively correlated with periodontitis. Pearson correlation analysis showed that hub genes were significantly correlated with immune cell infiltration.
Conclusion
This multi-omics integration study identifies a causal relationship between four hub genes and periodontitis and provides potential new therapeutic targets for clinical practice.
Identifying innovations produced by primary health care centers and evaluating their scalability: the SPRINT Occitanie cross-sectional study in France
Authors: VANDEVENTER Alexis , MERCIER Grégoire , BONNEL Christophe , Pissarra Joana , NINOT Grégory , CARBONNEL François
Published: March 2024

Background:
Practice-based research is one of the levers identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) to strengthen primary health care. The scaling of health and social care innovations has thepotential to reduce inequities in health and to expand the benefits of effective innovations. It is now rapidly gaining the attention of decision-makers in health and social care, particularly in high-income countries.
To meet the challenge of declining numbers of primary care physicians in France, Pluri-professional Healthcare Centers (PHC) were created to bring together medical and paramedical professionals. They are a source of innovation in meeting the health challenges facing our populations.
Specific methodology exists to identify health innovations and assess their scalability. A working group, including end-users and specialists, has adapted this methodology to the French context and the University department of general practice of Montpellier-Nîmes (France) launched a pilot study in Occitanie, a French region.
Objective:
To identify and evaluate the scalability of innovations produced in pluri-professional healthcare centers in the Occitanie region.
Methods:
A pilot, observational, cross-sectional study was carried out. The SPRINT Occitanie study was based on a questionnaire with two sections: PHC information and the modified Innovation Scalability Self-Administered Questionnaire (ISSaQ), version 2020. The study population was all 279 PHC in the Occitanie region.
Results:
19.3% (54) of PHC in the Occitanie region, responded fully or incompletely to the questionnaire. Four out of 5 U-PHCs were represented. Five PHC presented multiple innovations. The average per PHC was 1.94 (±2.4) innovations. 26% of them (n=9) had high scalability, 34% (n=12) medium scalability and 40% (n=14) low scalability. The main innovation represented (86%) were healthcare program, service, and tool.
Conclusions:
In our cross-sectional study, a quarter of the innovations were highly scalable. We were able to demonstrate the importance of PHC teams in working on primary care research through the prism of innovations. Primary-care innovations must be detected, evaluated, and extracted to improve their impact on their healthcare system.
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis in an adolescent with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a case report
Authors: Huang Yifan , Qiao Jinhan , Zheng Jia
Published: March 2024

Background: Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a common hip problem in adolescents between the ages of 8 and 15. Various endocrine disorders have been reported as the cause of this condition. Here, we describe a rare case of a boy with SCFE secondary to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).
Case presentation: We report a 12-year-old boy who was admitted to our hospital for right SCFE that was not caused by trauma. The patient was diagnosed with CAH two months after birth and subsequently started long-term treatment with hydrocortisone and 9α-fludrocortisone. From the age of 5, he was treated with growth hormone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs to improve height. After adequate endocrine evaluation and endocrine therapy, the patient underwent surgery for right SCFE.
Conclusion: In previous reports, hypothyroidism, hypopituitarism, and hypogonadism were common endocrine causes of SCFE, but this is the first time that congenital adrenal hyperplasia has been observed. As such, patients who have undergone long-term endocrine treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia could potentially be subjected to higher risk for SCFE.