bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Islanding Detection and Power Quality Diagnosis of Wind Power Integrated Microgrid with Reduced Feature Trained Novel Optimized Random Decision Forest
Authors: Mishra Sairam , Mallick Ranjan K. , Gadanayak Debadatta A. , Nayak Pravati , Flah Aymen , El-Bayeh Claude Ziad , Kraiem Habib , Prokop Lukas
Published: March 2024

Distributed generations (DGs) have been increasingly addressing the ongoing power deficit in the electricity market. However, a significant concern in DG‐integrated microgrids is the detection of accidental islanding. To tackle this issue, this article proposes a cost‐friendly, novel data‐driven passive islanding detection scheme named EEMD‐HOBRC, combining noise‐assisted ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) and a hybrid optimization‐based random forest classifier (HOBRFC). The detection scheme employs a diverse set of features extracted from both raw and EEMD decomposed signals. Essential features are selected using the binary grey wolf optimizer (BGWO) to reduce computational burden. To further improve classification accuracy, the parameters of the random forest classifier are optimized through a hybrid particle swarm and reformed grey wolf optimization (PSRGWO) technique with Cohen’s kappa index as the cost function. The proposed technique is rigorously validated in two different multi‐DG environments, encompassing islanding and various nonislanding events. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach in terms of enhanced accuracy, detection time, and performance under both noisy and noise‐free conditions. The accuracy of detection under ideal and high noise scenarios is found to be 99.88% and 99.2%, respectively, with maximum detection time of 34.27 ms. Comparative analysis with other algorithms also supports the superiority of the proposed technique. Finally, the method is successfully applied to shrink the nondetection zone (NDZ) with minimal power mismatch, further enhancing its utility in practical applications.
Immunotherapy-Induced Overlap Syndrome: Myositis, Myasthenia Gravis, and Myocarditis—A Case Series
Authors: Aggarwal Nikhil , Bianchini Diletta , Parkar Rosemeen , Turner Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are monoclonal antibodies that target immune checkpoint inhibitory receptors. They have revolutionised cancer treatment but can be associated with a wide range of adverse side effects. Rarely, they can be associated with the triad of myositis, myasthenia gravis, and myocarditis or overlap syndrome. Prompt recognition and early intervention are needed to treat these potentially life-threatening conditions. We report a case series of patients with ICI-related overlap syndrome, including the first with avelumab, and discuss the current management guidelines.
Inhibition of RIP1/RIP3 Necroptosis Pathway Promote Erectile Function in Cold‐Stressed Rat Model
Authors: Yang Pei , Niu Lipan , Zhu Bingbing , Amuti Siyiti , Yiming Adilijiang , Liu Fengxia
Published: March 2024

Cold stimulation is the most common stressor in cold regions. Continuous cold stimulation can cause a series of pathophysiological changes in the body, such as aggregated neutrophils, macrophage activation, and increased inflammatory factors, which is also a risk factor for erectile function impairment. In addition, necroptosis is an important form of programmed cell death. However, the mechanisms of necroptosis in erectile function impairment due to cold stimulation have been very poorly studied. Therefore, we explored the mechanism of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)‐mediated receptor interacting protein kinase 1 (RIP1)/receptor interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3) necroptosis pathway on erectile function among cold‐stressed rats. First, we established a cold‐stressed rat model using cold stimulation and selected those rats that had developed erectile function impairment. Then, we used Necrostatin‐1 (RIP1 specific inhibitor, Nec‐1), Etanercept (TNF‐α inhibitor, Ent), and Sildenafil (Sil) to intervene for 14 days and subsequently assessed their erectile function by apomorphine test and sexual behavioural test. Lastly, we performed various molecular studies and histopathological analyses of penile tissues collected from these rats after the experiments. We found that erectile function was impaired in cold‐stressed rats, with increased penile tissue fibrosis and elevated levels of TNF‐α and necroptosis. Contrastingly, intervention with Nec‐1 and Ent restored erectile function, reduced penile tissue fibrosis, and decreased TNF‐α and necroptosis levels, consistent with the results of intervention with Sil. Based on these results, we confirmed that the TNF‐α‐mediated RIP1/RIP3 necroptosis pathway was significantly altered in cold‐stressed rats. In conclusion, inhibition of the TNF‐α‐mediated RIP1/RIP3 necroptosis pathway improved erectile function, suggesting that the specific downstream mechanisms need to be further explored.
Circulating miRNA Signature Predicts Cancer Incidence in Lynch Syndrome—A Pilot Study
Authors: Sievänen Tero , Jokela Tiina , Hyvärinen Matti , Korhonen Tia-Marje , Pylvänäinen Kirsi , Mecklin Jukka-Pekka , Karvanen Juha , Sillanpää Elina , Seppälä Toni T. , Laakkonen Eija K.
Published: March 2024

Lynch syndrome (LS) is the most common autosomal dominant cancer syndrome and is characterized by high genetic cancer risk modified by lifestyle factors. This study explored whether a circulating miRNA (c-miR) signature predicts LS cancer incidence within a 4-year prospective surveillance period. To gain insight how lifestyle behavior could affect LS cancer risk, we investigated whether the cancer-predicting c-miR signature correlates with known risk-reducing factors such as physical activity, body mass index (BMI), dietary fiber, or NSAID usage. The study included 110 c-miR samples from LS carriers, 18 of whom were diagnosed with cancer during a 4-year prospective surveillance period. Lasso regression was utilized to find c-miRs associated with cancer risk. Individual risk sum derived from the chosen c-miRs was used to develop a model to predict LS cancer incidence. This model was validated using 5-fold cross-validation. Correlation and pathway analyses were applied to inspect biological functions of c-miRs. Pearson correlation was used to examine the associations of c-miR risk sum and lifestyle factors. hsa-miR-10b-5p, hsa-miR-125b-5p, hsa-miR-200a-3p, hsa-miR-3613-5p, and hsa-miR-3615 were identified as cancer predictors by Lasso, and their risk sum score associated with higher likelihood of cancer incidence (HR 2.72, 95% confidence interval: 1.64–4.52, C-index = 0.72). In cross-validation, the model indicated good concordance with the average C-index of 0.75 (0.6–1.0). Coregulated hsa-miR-10b-5p, hsa-miR-125b-5p, and hsa-miR-200a-3p targeted genes involved in cancer-associated biological pathways. The c-miR risk sum score correlated with BMI (r = 0.23, P < 0.01). In summary, BMI-associated c-miRs predict LS cancer incidence within 4 years, although further validation is required.

Prevention Relevance:

The development of cancer risk prediction models is key to improving the survival of patients with LS. This pilot study describes a serum miRNA signature–based risk prediction model that predicts LS cancer incidence within 4 years, although further validation is required.
Marcadores do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional predizem qualidade da dieta
Authors: Louzada Maria Laura da Costa , Couto Vanessa Del Castillo Silva , Rauber Fernanda , Tramontt Claudia Raulino , Santos Thanise Sabrina Souza , Lourenço Bárbara Hatzlhoffer , Jaime Patrícia Constante
Published: March 2024

OBJETIVO: Investigar o desempenho dos marcadores do consumo alimentar do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional (Sisvan) na avaliação da qualidade global da alimentação. MÉTODOS: O estudo foi realizado a partir da reprodução de respostas aos marcadores em dados de recordatórios de 24 horas, de 46.164 indivíduos com idade menor ou igual a 10 anos, da Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares 2017–2018. Foram avaliados sete marcadores do Sisvan e calculados dois escores para cada participante, a partir do somatório do número de marcadores de alimentação saudável (feijão, frutas, verduras/legumes, variando de 0 a 3) e não saudável (hambúrguer/embutidos, bebidas adoçadas, macarrão instantâneo/salgadinhos/biscoitos salgados, biscoito recheado/doces/guloseimas, variando de 0 a 4) consumidos. Análises de regressão linear foram usadas para avaliar a associação entre os escores e indicadores de qualidade da alimentação (participação de alimentos ultraprocessados, diversidade e teores de gordura saturada, trans, açúcar de adição, sódio, potássio e fibra da dieta). RESULTADOS: o escore de marcadores de alimentação saudável aumentou de forma significativa com o aumento da diversidade e dos teores de potássio e fibra da dieta, enquanto tendência oposta foi observada para as densidades de açúcar de adição, sódio, gordura saturada e trans (p < 0,001). Observou-se que o escore de marcadores de alimentação não saudável aumentou de forma significativa com o aumento da participação de alimentos ultraprocessados e dos teores de açúcar de adição, gordura saturada e trans da dieta, enquanto tendência inversa é observada para potássio e fibra (p < 0,001). A análise conjunta da combinação dos dois escores de marcadores mostrou que indivíduos com melhor desempenho (3 no escore de alimentos saudáveis, e 0 no de alimentos não saudáveis) possuem menor número de inadequações no consumo de nutrientes. CONCLUSÃO: Os marcadores do consumo alimentar do Sisvan, aplicados de forma rápida e prática e já incorporados no sistema público de saúde brasileiro, possuem bom potencial para refletir a qualidade global da alimentação.
A homoparentalidade como questão da saúde coletiva: uma revisão de escopo
Authors: Gomes Romeu , Toma Tereza Setsuko , Silva Jessica De Lucca Da , Domene Fernando Meirinho , Silva Adriano da
Published: March 2024

OBJETIVO: Mapear a produção científica global sobre homoparentalidade no campo da saúde coletiva ou saúde pública. MÉTODOS: Em termos de procedimentos metodológicos, foi realizada uma revisão de escopo, tendo como norte a seguinte pergunta: quais são os aspectos abordados na produção científica global a respeito de famílias homoparentais no campo da saúde coletiva ou pública? As buscas foram realizadas em sete fontes de literatura científica, sendo incluídos 58 estudos, envolvendo artigos científicos e dissertações. O tratamento analítico dado aos estudos, em sua maioria qualitativos, seguiu a técnica de análise de conteúdo na modalidade temática. RESULTADOS: Os resultados indicam que percepções de homossexuais e de profissionais sobre cuidados prestados e serviços de saúde em geral foi a temática abordada por maior número de estudos (n = 31), seguida de contexto heteronormativo dos serviços de saúde (n = 26); revelação da orientação sexual (n = 20); fertilização (n = 14); informações e ações educativas (n = 5). CONCLUSÃO: Embora a questão da homoparentalidade venha sendo discutida em alguns setores da saúde, há ciência de que é preciso contar com uma base consolidada por meio de inúmeros estudos ao se problematizar essa temática. Conclui-se que, dentre outros aspectos, que o escopo desta revisão não é problematizado de forma suficiente no âmbito da formação e atuação de profissionais de saúde.
Public Opinions on ChatGPT : An Analysis of Reddit Discussions by Using Sentiment Analysis, Topic Modeling, and SWOT Analysis
Authors: Naing Shwe Zin Su , Udomwong Piyachat
Published: March 2024

The sudden arrival of AI (Artificial Intelligence) into people's daily lives all around the world was marked by the introduction of ChatGPT, which was officially released on November 30, 2022. This AI invasion in our lives drew the attention of not only tech enthusiasts but also scholars from diverse fields, as its capacity extends across various fields. Consequently, numerous articles and journals have been discussing ChatGPT, making it a headline for several topics. However, it does not reflect most public opinion about the product. Therefore, this paper investigated the public's opinions on ChatGPT through topic modelling, Vader-based sentiment analysis and SWOT analysis. To gather data for this study, 202905 comments from the Reddit platform were collected between December 2022 and December 2023. The findings reveal that the Reddit community engaged in discussions related to ChatGPT, covering a range of topics including comparisons with traditional search engines, the impacts on software development, job market, and education industry, exploring ChatGPT's responses on entertainment and politics, the responses from Dan, the alter ego of ChatGPT, the ethical usage of user data as well as queries related to the AI-generated images. The sentiment analysis indicates that most people hold positive views towards this innovative technology across these several aspects. However, concerns also arise regarding the potential negative impacts associated with this product. The SWOT analysis of these results highlights both the strengths and pain points, market opportunities and threats associated with ChatGPT. This analysis also serves as a foundation for providing recommendations aimed at the product development and policy implementation in this paper.
Non-Gaussian normative modelling with hierarchical Bayesian regression
Authors: de Boer Augustijn A. A. , Bayer Johanna M. M. , Kia Seyed Mostafa , Rutherford Saige , Zabihi Mariam , Fraza Charlotte , Barkema Pieter , Westlye Lars T. , Andreassen Ole A. , Hinne Max , Beckmann Christian F. , Marquand Andre
Published: March 2024

Normative modelling is an emerging technique for parsing heterogeneity in clinical cohorts. This can be implemented in practice using hierarchical Bayesian regression, which provides an elegant probabilistic solution to handle site variation in a federated learning framework. However, applications of this method to date have employed a Gaussian assumption, which may be restrictive in some applications. We have extended the hierarchical Bayesian regression framework to flexibly model non-Gaussian data with heteroskdastic skewness and kurtosis. To this end, we employ a flexible distribution from the sinh-arcsinh (SHASH) family, and introduce a novel reparameterisation and a Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling approach to perform inference in this model. Using a large neuroimaging dataset collected at 82 different sites, we show that the results achieved with this extension are equivalent or better than a warped Bayesian linear regression baseline model on most datasets, while providing better control over the parameters governing the shape of distributions that the approach is able to model. We also demonstrate that the attained flexibility is useful for accurately modelling highly nonlinear relationships between aging and imaging derived phenotypes, which shows that the extension is important for pushing the field of normative modelling forward. All methods described here are available in the open-source pcntoolkit.
Branding the Beast
Authors: Bogdan Henrik
Published: March 2024

This article discusses the British occultist Aleister Crowley (1875–1947) as an advertiser of the occult. Relying on theories of advertising and branding, it is argued that Crowley’s main branding strategy was the use of irony and humor in order to distance himself from other actors on the occult market. Furthermore, it is argued that this can be understood as a strategy of legitimization rooted in class consciousness, and more specifically in the elite intellectualism of turn-of-the-century Oxbridge. Crowley’s brand identity as the Great Beast 666, the Prophet of a New Age or Aeon, is analyzed with a special focus on his branding strategies in advertising, divided into (1) advertisements in books, (2) prospectuses, (3) marketing campaigns, and (4) the marketing of Crowley as a spiritual teacher.
Projecting Worlds Today
Authors: Teixeira Da Silva William
Published: March 2024

This essay aims at an appraisal of Nicholas Wolterstorff’s magum opus on the subject of art, the book Works and Worlds of Art, published in 1980 by the Clarendon Press in Oxford. The book is well known by analytic philosophers of religion, but its innovative value still seems to receive less recognition from other schools of thought and from artists and scholars in the area of Arts. Therefore, this introduction situates the book in the history of Philosophy of Art, with special focus on the state of affairs for the discipline in the twentieth century, engaging dialogue with other philosophical proposals in the period. Finally, the core concepts of Wolterstorff’s philosophy of art will be presented and defined in order to offer a glimpse of the richness that this book could still provide to contemporary scholarship.
Effects of Beauveria bassiana on Disease Biocontrol and Growth of Ornamental Sunflower
Authors: Wu Haifeng , Rozlomiy Natalya G. , Zhang Zhengkun , Zhang Xi
Published: March 2024

Ornamental sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an important horticultural plant supporting China’s cut-flower industry. But its cultivation is often affected by root-, stem-, leaf- and disc-rot diseases causing a drastic reduction in the commercial production of this flower.
So far, using improved variety and pesticides could not bring much success to this problem. In the present investigation the prevention of the diseases has been tested using a biocontrol fungus species Beauveria bassiana Bals. -Criv. In the present experiment, B. bassiana and
ornamental sunflower were colonized into ornamental sunflower cultivation beds, and then the sunflower was infected with nuclear disc bacteria. The intensity of the disease resistance effect by B. bassiana on the morphological characteristics of ornamental sunflower plants was monitored.
Experimental data show that both seed immersion treatment and root filling treatment can improve the resistance effect of ornamental sunflower to nuclear disc bacteria. The disease resistance effect of seed immersion treatment is more obvious, which is specifically reflected in the incidence
of ornamental sunflower plants. The incidence of 3, 4, 5, and 11 d were 7, 13, 6, and 30%, respectively. And the ornamental sunflower plants treated with B. bassiana showed a growth and budding effect. The budding rate of plants treated with B. bassiana seeded at 2, 3, and 4
d were increased by 36, 50, and 33%, respectively.
The Main Soil Constraint Factors and Its Improvement Methods Based on Sustainable Development of Agricultural Economy in Tobacco Planting Area in Chenzhou City, Hunan Province of China
Authors: Zhou Tingan , Xiao Yansong , Deng Rujing , Yu Fahui , Hu Jiuwei
Published: March 2024

Farmland soil is the basis for agricultural production and a fundamental resource. It is beneficial to the sustainable development of agricultural economy to adopt different conservation measures for different soil types which exist various obstacles. In order to provide scientific
guidance for accurate soil improvement for the fields under tobacco-rice rotation in Chenzhou City, Hunan Province of China, soil obstacle combination types were analyzed by sampling and determined based on the data of pH, organic matter (OM), available nitrogen (AN), phosphorous (AP) and
potassium (AK) in the plough horizons (0–20 cm) of 1008 typical fields, and according soil obstacle combination types, different measures were adopted to improve the soil fertility and tobacco yield and quality. The results showed that based on the five soil quality indices, 61.31%–81.85%
of the fields were in the high levels, 26.79%–33.83% of the fields were in the suitable levels, while only 9.66% on average the fields were in the low levels. In total 89 soil obstacle combination types were found in the fields, among which, 22 types (75.3%) with the field numbers were
more than 1% of the total fields. The main ones were the types of Reducing pH, OM and NPK (17.76%), followed by the types of Reducing pH, OM and NP (8.43%), Reducing OM and NPK (5.26%), reducing pH, OM and PK (4.66%), and reducing pH, OM and N (4.07%). In conclusion, the comprehensive countermeasures
(organic fertilizer and straw mulching) should be considered and taken for the accurate improvement of soil quality according to the actual situation in soil obstacle combinations, and reducing pH, OM and NPK should be considered first for most fields under tobacco-rice rotation.
Alleviation of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus by Bai-Hu-Jia-Ren-Shen Decoction Through Modulating Serum Metabolism
Authors: Pan Baochao , Yao Bin , Hou Meiling , Liu Chao , Su Xiuhai , Zhang Shufang , Li YiMeng , Zhang Hui , Li Wendong , Lv Shuquan , Sun Ying
Published: March 2024

BHRS has been employed in clinical settings for the treatment of T2DM. However, the precise underlying mechanism of its action remains elusive. In this study, we elucidate the specific therapeutic effects of BHRS on T2DM and subsequently investigate its mechanism using untargeted metabolomics
techniques. Our research demonstrates that BHRS modulates the levels of 22 metabolites, including alpha-ketoglutaric acid, L-ascorbate, and L-ornithine, among others. These metabolites primarily participate in metabolic pathways involving nicotinate and nicotinamide, arachidonic acid, and
inositol phosphate. In conclusion, our findings establish that BHRS effectively lowers blood glucose levels, mitigates inflammatory responses, and attenuates oxidative stress in T2DM rats. Additionally, BHRS influences the metabolic pathways of nicotinate and nicotinamide, arachidonic acid,
and inositol phosphate in the serum of T2DM rats.
Effect of Suanzaoren on Perioperative Analgesia, Hemodynamics and Postoperative Delirium
Authors: Zhao Xin , Chen Xuanling , Qin Xuewei , Yao Lan
Published: March 2024

Hip fracture is not only accompanied by severe pain, but also impair body tissue and organ functions in patients, particularly in elderly individuals who have reduced tolerance and are prone to organ damage after experiencing a hip fracture. Surgery is the primary clinical approach
for treating hip fractures. However, both the fracture trauma and surgical procedure can result in significant pain during the perioperative period, leading to abnormal hemodynamic fluctuations and an increased risk of postoperative delirium. Therefore, it is crucial to select an appropriate
intervention method to facilitate the postoperative rehabilitation of hip fracture patients. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acknowledges that surgery will have different degrees of impact on muscles and bones, Qi and blood. Suanzaoren Decoction contains suanzaoren, anemarrhena asphodeloides,
ligusticum chuanxiong and other TCM. The effective components of these TCM, such as spinosin, sarsasapogenin, and tetramethylpyrazine, have been proved to have analgesic effects. This study demonstrates, through clinical trials, that Suanzaoren Decoction exerts a positive influence on promoting
the postoperative rehabilitation of hip fracture patients by reducing postoperative pain, stabilizing hemodynamic indexes, improving inflammatory state, and shortening the duration of postoperative delirium (all P <0.05). The fact that Suanzaoren Decoction can effectively promote
the postoperative rehabilitation of hip fracture patients may be related to the anti-inflammatory, analgesic and neuroprotective effects of the effective ingredients in the prescription, such as spinosin, sarsasapogenin and tetramethylpyrazine. Therefore, this study believes that Suanzaoren
Decoction+ERAS intervention program represents an optimal approach for hip fracture surgery patients within the perioperative period.
Inhibitory Effect of Tanshinone IIA Extracted from Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae on Melanoma B16F10 Cells
Authors: Li Rihui , Chen Yongwei , Cheng Yuanfang , Wang Yajuan , Deng Qing , Wang Bin
Published: March 2024

In this study, we investigate the inhibitory effects of Tanshinone IIA on the proliferation and migration of B16F10 melanoma cells and its potential mechanism of action. We cultured B16F10 melanoma cells in vitro and treated them with varying concentrations of tanshinone IIA.
The inhibitory effect of tanshinone IIA on B16F10 cells was assessed using the CCK-8 assay, employing methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium. Melanin content was determined by the NaOH cleavage method, while expression levels of melanin-related proteins were analyzed by Western blotting, and migration-related
proteins were quantified using ELISA. When the concentration of Tanshinone IIA reached 20 and 40 μg/mL, there was a decrease in the survival rate of B16F10 melanoma cells. The proliferation inhibition rate of B16F10 melanoma cells gradually increased with the duration of drug action
and the concentration of Tanshinone IIA. After 48 hours, there was an increase in melanin content. A comparison of melanin synthesis at the three concentrations yielded an F value of 61.820 and P <0.001. The relative expression levels of TYR, TRP-1, TRP-2, and MITF increased when treated
with different concentrations of Tanshinone IIA (P < 0.05). MMP-2 and MMP-9 were downregulated when the concentration of Tanshinone IIA was at 40 and 80 μg/mL respectively (P <0.05). In conclusion, our study demonstrated the inhibitory effects of Tanshinone IIA on growth, proliferation,
migration, and melanin synthesis in B16F10 melanoma cells. However, further research is needed to elucidate the specific signal transduction pathway activated by Tanshinone IIA.
Identification and Disinfection Treatment Technology of a New Guangdong Choy Sum Disease
Authors: Li Guilian , Chen Bijuan , Gao Xiang , Xu Can , Xiong Zheng , Chen Xingdan
Published: March 2024

Seed-borne diseases cause significant economic losses in modern agriculture. The use of large amounts of chemical pesticides to control seed-borne diseases also results in negative consequences such as environmental pollution and pesticide residue in agricultural products. This has
generated great interest among scholars in detecting and controlling seed-borne diseases. This study screened and isolated a new pathogenic fungus, Penicillium decumbens, from three Guangdong choy sum varieties. The virulence test showed that it inhibited seed germination rate by 40%
and germination vigor by 50%. The conventional seed disinfectants (Thiram WP) did not completely eliminate the pathogenic bacteria. A comparative study of nine seed disinfectants revealed that 50% Carbendazim WP, 80% Thiram WP, 15% Carbendazim+15% Thiram WP, and 45% Prochloraz EW exhibited
significant fungicidal effects against Penicillium decumbents infection in Guangdong choy sum seeds. Based on comprehensive indicators including germination rate, germination vigor, and root length after disinfection treatment, the most effective disinfectant was 45% Prochloraz EW with a sterilization
effect of 100%, an increase in germination vigor by 37.5%, and an increase in germination rate by 27.9%.
Effects of Light Intensity, Water Content, and the Application of Biochar Nanoparticles on the Growth and Development of Tomato Seedlings
Authors: Lv Xuemei , Ai Xin , Zhu Xuechao
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effects of light intensity, water content, and the application of biochar nanoparticles (BNPs) on the growth and development of tomato seedlings to provide valuable insight into tomato cultivation. BNPs were prepared using rice straw. In this experiment,
the light intensity was set at 350 μmol ·m−2 · s−1 (L1), 300 μmol ·m−2 · s−1 (L2), and 250 μmol ·m−2 · s−1
(L3). The irrigation amount was set at 150 mL/plant (W1) and 100 mL/plant (W2). The contents of BNPs were set at 0% BNPs (N1) and 5% BNPs (N2). L2W2N2 was used as the control. A total of 12 groups were
included in the study. Groups D, E, F, J, K, and L did not use BNPs, while the remaining six groups used 5% BNPs. We found that BNPs exhibit significant aggregation with spherical morphology. As the pH increased, the particle size of BNPs showed a trend of initial increase, followed by a decrease
and subsequent increase. Carbon elements existed in three different forms and possessed distinct chemical bonds, resulting in different relative contents. The relative content of C═O accounted for 26.40%, which was significantly higher than that of C—O by approximately 15%. Under
the W1 treatment, the height of the tomato plant in L1N2 was 31.7 cm, which is higher by 0.4 cm than that in L1N1. Under L2W1N1 treatment, the net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductivity, and
intercellular CO2 concentration of tomatoes were 9.68 μmoL ·m2 · s−1, 1.223 mmoL ·m2 · s−1, 0.071 μmoL ·m2 · s−1, and 626 ppm, respectively,
which are significantly higher than the control. In conclusion, this research provides a foundation for growing tomatoes.
Effect of Yiqi Huoxue Decoction on Neurological Function for Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Wu Qunfang , Chen Jiaying , Ma Bitao
Published: March 2024

Cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI) can lead to neurological dysfunction, such as limb numbness, muscle stiffness, and motor disorders. Although early decompression surgery has demonstrated efficacy in alleviating symptoms for patients with CSCI, there are still some limitations in the
recovery of motor function. It has been reported that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has advantages in the treatment of CSCI due to its safety and efficacy and its ability to modulate the immune system and promote neuroregeneration. In this study, we investigate the clinical efficacy of
combining Yiqi Huoxue Decoction with acupoint massage therapy in patients with CSCI after decompression and fixation surgery. A total of 140 patients who were first diagnosed with CSCI at our hospital and underwent early decompression and internal fixation surgery from October 2022 to June
2023 were included in this study. They were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 70) received conventional Western medicine treatment, and Group B (n = 70) received Yiqi Huoxue Decoction and acupoint massage therapy. We observed significant improvements in the American Spinal
Injury Association scores after the combined treatment. Moreover, the levels of neuron-specific enolase decreased, while the levels of nerve growth factor and insulin-like growth factor-1 increased. Additionally, the levels of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells exhibited
a notable decrease. Furthermore, acupoint massage was found to stimulate nerve endings, thereby promoting nerve regeneration and repair. In summary, this combined treatment effectively improves the neurological function of patients with CSCI.
Growth Promoting Characteristics of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GZA69 and Its Biocontrol Potential Against Soft Rot of Amorphophallus konjac
Authors: Niu Lisha , Xia Tiyuan , Ren Zhen , Tang Zuoxin , Cao Zhenliang , Jia Boxuan , Zhong Yu
Published: March 2024

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial bacteria colonizing the plant rhizosphere and can promote plant growth. PGPR have important application potential in the field of microbial fertilizers. This study isolated and characterized a PGPR strain GZA69 from konjac rhizosphere
soil collected from Damogu Village, Luliang County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, China. The strain was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. GZA69 showed diverse plant growth-promoting abilities, including nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, siderophore production, and
indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production. Tomato was used as an indicator crop to evaluate its growth-promoting effect, two GZA69 suspension concentrations (A1, OD600 = 0.3 and A2, 0.6) were used to treat tomato seeds and seedlings. Plate confrontation assay and
konjac corm tissue inoculation were conducted to identify the antagonistic effect of GZA69 strain on the pathogen of konjac soft rot disease. The results showed that, both GZA69 concentrations significantly promoted tomato seed germination (A) and seedling growth, with growth increased of
8.2% and 9.66% in height, 20.87% and 22.77% in root length, and 90% and 130% in fresh weight, respectively. Additionally, GZA69 demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on the konjac soft rot pathogen, with an inhibition zone of 1.47±0.07 cm. Furthermore, GZA69 effectively reduced
disease incidence in inoculated corm tissues, with disease index decreased by 8.00%, 16.23%, 24.80% in co-inoculated with different concentrations of GZA69 suspensions (solution of soft rot pathogen and GZA69 bacterial at ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3, respectively) comparted to the control
(sterile water). In summary, the B. amyloliquefaciens GZA69 screened from konjac rhizosphere soil has various plant growth promoting characteristics and has the potential to prevent and control konjac soft rot disease, which has important application value for developing konjac microbial
fertilizers.
Improvement Effect of Straw Interlayer Thickness on Saline-Alkali Soil
Authors: Wang Jingli , Liu Min , Xu Tianyue , Li Chunrong , Zhao Chunkai , Feng Weizhi
Published: March 2024

In order to evaluate and optimize the application effect of straw interlayer technology in improving soil quality and crop production in saline-alkali soil, and to understand the synergistic relationship between soil water and nutrient distribution, crop roots and above-ground growth
in saline-alkali soil, the improvement effect of straw interlayer thickness on saline-alkali soil was studied. Through the indoor root box control experiment combined with the field micro-zone verification experiment, four corn straw interlayer thickens were set (CK: no straw interlayer; S3:
Straw layer thickness is 3 cm; S5: The straw layer thickness is 5 cm; S7: straw interlayer thickness is 7 cm), and the effects of straw interlayer thickness on soil water and salt transport and nutrient distribution are simulated. The results showed that straw interlayer could enhance the
water retention and salt leaching capacity of 0–40 cm soil layer after irrigation, and S5 treatment had the best effect, with soil water content increased by 11.0% and salt content decreased by 4.0% compared with CK (P < A0.05). Compared with CK, straw separation treatment
decreased the soil nutrient content in 0–40 cm soil layer (except alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen and available potassium), and increased the soil nutrient content in 40–60 cm soil layer, and S5 treatment had the largest increase, in which available potassium was significantly increased
by 15.0% compared with CK (P <0.05). Therefore, it shows that the straw interlayer can play a role in preventing water and reducing permeability, and can reduce the salt content of the soil above the interlayer, and has a good effect on the improvement of saline-alkali soil.
Effect of Different Light Intensities on the Quality of ‘Korla’ Fragrant Pear Fruits
Authors: Ma Ping , Liu Chang , Xu Panyun , Ma Hui , MuSha Yahefu , Li Chunlan , He Tianming
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of different light intensities on the quality of ‘Korla’ fragrant pear fruits. The differences in fruit quality were determined by evaluating the pigment content and fluorescent characteristics of the peel. The date of fruit weight,
aspect ratio, soluble sugar content, soluble solid content, reducing sugar content, and vitamin C content of fruits, were higher under 100% light intensity than in shade treatment. However, firmness of the peel and pulp, and titratable acid content were enhanced in shade-treatment. Total chlorophyll,
Chl a, and Chl b contents gradually decreased with the reduction in light intensity. The anthocyanin content gradually decreased with the decrease in light intensity. The maximum photochemical efficiency (FV/FM) of PSII significantly declined at 1% light
intensity. As the light intensity decreased, the actual fluorescence quantum efficiency of PSII (F′V/F′M), non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), and actual photochemical efficiency of PSII (ΦPS II) progressively decreased.
The results indicate that photoinhibition occurred in the peel of fragrant pear fruits. Shade treatment reduced the intrinsic quality of ‘Korla’ fragrant pear fruits, whereas a moderate decrease in light intensity could enhance the extrinsic quality of fruits.
Analysis of SSR Sites Base on Transcriptome of Pinellia ternata in Guizhou, China
Authors: Zhang Qin , Zou Hongmei , Li Kaiyang , Liu Peng
Published: March 2024

This study collected SSR information from transcriptome samples of Pinellia ternata (P.T) from different regions in order to provide some reference for germplasm resources and genetic breeding of P.T. samples from six regions were selected as research objects. The frequency of
SSR site, types of motifs, composition of motifs, and average distance was analyzed by Excel software. The results showed that there were 32,061–67,917 unigene sequences and 11,109–22,540 SSR site in the six P.T species, with a frequency of 32.7%–35.8% and an average distance
of 2.65 kb–3.17 kb. The six SSR repeat types for P.T were mainly double base, triple base and Mononucleotide repeats. The number composition of dominant repeat motifs in the six P.T species from Mononucleotide to Tetranucleotide was basically the same, which were A/T, AG/CT, CCG/CGG
and AGCT/AGCT, respectively. Most SSR sites were less than or equal to 30 bp in length, and the number of these SSRs accounted for 81.2%–82.3% of the total. It can be seen from the above results that, the transcriptome of P.T in different regions was rich in SSR types and high in polymorphisms,
which can provide a basis for germplasm difference identification, genetic breeding and other research of P.T.
Extraction of Fucoxanthin from Marine Organisms and Its Therapeutic Effect on Cancer Cells
Authors: Pang Yunlong , Duan Liqin , Liu Xiaoyong , Cui Yulin , Wang Tingting
Published: March 2024

As China’s economy develops and its population grows, resources are becoming increasingly scarce. As a result, attention is shifting towards utilising marine resources, and the ability to process them is an increasingly important area of development.Within the traditional marine
industry, kelp is primarily used for fucoidan extraction, with other substances such as kelp pigments often cast off as waste. Fucoxanthin constitutes the major carotenoid component found within kelp pigments. These pigments are believed to possess immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and
anti-tumour properties, and are of multifaceted benefit to human health by counteracting cellular oxidative damage induced by free radicals. Kelp served as the raw material in this study. Macroporous resin was utilized to extract Fucoxanthin from the kelp extract. Only an aqueous ethanol solution
was employed for the extraction process. Subsequently, reduced-pressure column chromatography was conducted to quickly enrich the Fucoxanthin. Finally, the anti-tumour activity and free radical scavenging ability of the Fucoxanthin were analyzed. The results of the experiment revealed that
Fucoxanthin can be effectively adsorbed by X-5 resin and its adsorption capability is robust. Additionally, using a 60% concentration of ethanol solution can promptly and effectively elute the absorbed Fucoxanthin from the X-5 resin. Moreover, after incubation for 48 hours at a concentration
of 80 μg/mL of Fucoxanthin, the expression levels of p65, p52, and p50 genes significantly decreased in cancer cells. Fucoxanthin, a pigment found in kelp, exhibits potent antioxidant activity. The findings suggest that Fucoxanthin possesses the ability to effectively suppress the
expression of cancer cells and scavenge free radicals.
Curcumin Nicotinate Activates AMPK to Inhibit Aerobic Glycolysis in Vascular Endothelial Cells to Prevent Restenosis
Authors: Gao Ruili , Wang Xin , Ma Ximin , Ma Zhiqiang
Published: March 2024

Abnormal proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) participates in restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Curcumin, as the main active ingredient of turmeric, has been proven to inhibit the abnormal proliferation of VSMCs. This study intends to identify
the mechanism whereby curcumin nicotinate (CurTn) protects against vascular restenosis. The expression of PTEN and PFKFB3 in VSMCs was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot. Glycolysis in VSMCs was evaluated by detecting ECAR expression and MTT assays, whilst the Tandem Mass Tag
(TMT)-based Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) determined expression of AMPK/PTEN/PFKFB3 in glycolysis. After treatment with CurTn, intracellular citrate and acetyl-CoA levels, and expression of triglyceride content were measured. PFKFB3 and PTEN was up-regulated
in the carotid artery specimen. Overexpression of PTEN induced abnormal proliferation of VSMCs and promoted the phenotype conversion of VSMCs when increasing PFKFB3 expression. Additionally, while overexpression of AMPK did not up-regulate PFKFB3 expression, silencing of AMPK prevented the
increase in PFKFB3 expression induced by PTEN. Treatment with CurTn enhanced glycolysis and increased the expression level of citrate, acetyl-CoA, and triglycerides. Importantly, PTEN overexpression increased PFKFB3 KD and PFK158 expression and alleviated CurTn-induced increase in triglyceride
content. CurTn effectively delays the process of vascular restenosis through AMPK/PTEN/PFKFB3 pathway to inhibit aerobic glycolysis and VSMC proliferation.
Further Distance From Treating Facility is Associated With Advanced Colon Cancer at Presentation and Increased Mortality
Authors: Schmocker Ryan K. , Enomoto Laura M. , Low Gregory K. , McLoughlin James M. , Casillas Mark A. , Antill Andrew C. , Heidel Robert E. , Russ Andrew J.
Published: March 2024

Background

Colon cancer outcomes in the United States have improved over the last thirty years. However, there remain significant outcome disparities, especially in rural regions. It is unclear if distance to the treating facility has an independent effect on colon cancer mortality and outcomes. We sought to evaluate whether distance from a treating facility impacts stage at diagnosis and mortality.

Methods

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was utilized to identify a cohort of adult patients with colon cancer between the years 2013 and 2017 in all regions of the United States. Outcomes measured included colon cancer TNM stage, time to surgery, time to chemotherapy, and overall survival.

Results

A total of n = 356,189 patients met inclusion criteria. When controlling for race, education status, insurance status, comorbidities, and income, distance from the treating facility was a significant predictor of stage at presentation with more advanced clinical TNM stage as distance increased (AORs 1.12-1.62, P < .001 for all groups). Longer distance significantly increased the time to surgery (between 5.06 and 14.46 days, P < .001) and overall mortality (HR 1.11-1.28, P < .001). Median survival was 82.4 months for the closest group, versus 75.1 months for the farthest group ( P < .001).

Conclusions

Increased distance from the treating facility resulted in a significantly higher stage at presentation, increased time to surgery, and increased mortality. These results suggest that there are significant disparities in access to cancer care for patients who live in rural areas. Targeted interventions by treating facilities are needed to improve screening and timely treatment for rural colon cancer patients.
Stage-Based Detection Methods and Recurrence Patterns for Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Sullivan F. Grace , Adler Keith B. , Boudreaux Madeleine D. , Hensley Lexie M. , Roberts Morgan E. , Liles J. Spencer , Howard J. Harrison
Published: March 2024

Melanoma surveillance guidelines vary. Melanoma recurrence patterns and detection methods were examined. Resected melanoma patients were reviewed. Recurrence detection included patient complaint (PC), physical exam (PE), cross-sectional imaging (CSI), and ultrasound (US). 276 patients were included: 131 stage I, 83 stage II, and 62 stage III. Recurrence rates were 8%, 24%, and 27%, respectively. For stage I patients, 46% of recurrences were local, 18% regional, and 36% distant. Patient complaint identified 55% of recurrences, PE 36%, and CSI 9%. For stage II, 20% of recurrences were local, 20% regional, and 60% distant. Patient complaint identified 35% of recurrences, PE 20%, and CSI 45%. For stage III, 6% of recurrences were local, 53% regional, and 41% distant. Patient complaint identified 17% of recurrences, PE 12%, CSI 59%, and US 12%. Average time to recurrence by stage was 23.7, 24.6, and 17.7 months, respectively. H&P for all melanoma patients and CSI for higher stages are effective surveillance strategies.
Patient Resiliency and Caregiver Burden After Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Resulting in Quadriplegia
Authors: Howell Caroline W. , Lawrence James A. , Hinkel Hannah M. , Clutton Caroline H. , Lee Yann-Leei L. , Simmons Jon D. , Williams Ashley Y.
Published: March 2024

Traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) resulting in quadriplegia is a life-altering injury for patients and caregivers. We conducted a retrospective review of patients treated for tSCI and quadriplegia at a level 1 trauma center to assess quality of life (QOL), socioeconomic factors, and mortality. Patients and caregivers were surveyed. Of the 65 patients included, 33 contacts were made. Seventeen surveys were completed (12 caregivers and 5 patients). Six unreachable patients were confirmed alive via medical record. Mortality rate among these 39 accessible patients was 23% (n = 9). Medicaid and uninsured patients experienced longer hospital length of stay ( P < .0001) and discharged to home or nursing facilities ( P < .0001) more often than those with private insurance or Medicare. Patients reported overall “good” QOL (80%) while caregivers reported overall decreased QOL markers. Our results reflect the resilience among this patient population, but also highlight the impact of this life-altering injury on the caregiver.
Repair of Tracheoesophageal Fistula via Median Sternotomy Approach
Authors: Walker Savannah C. , Ma Brenda L. , Sawaya David E.
Published: March 2024

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) and esophageal atresia (EA) are rare congenital anomalies occurring in approximately 1 in 2500 to 3500 neonates. We present a neonatal patient diagnosed with EA/TEF in conjunction with pulmonary agenesis requiring definitive repair via median sternotomy. The child was born at 33 weeks gestational age with post-delivery respiratory distress necessitating intubation. A nasogastric tube was unable to be passed. After subsequent imaging, TEF and pulmonary agenesis were diagnosed. During planned staged repair with ligation of TEF via standard right thoracotomy approach, significant ventilatory compromise was encountered. Due to concern for ventilatory compromise and anatomical variance limiting visualization, a median sternotomy approach was utilized for definitive repair. This exposure and repair were successful and may be considered for cases with complex pulmonary malformation limiting standard thoracotomy. To our knowledge, this is only the second reported case of a successful TEF/EA repair using a median sternotomy approach.
The dubious anxiety of scholarly relevance
Authors: Simmons K Merinda
Published: March 2024

Based on comments made as part of a plenary roundtable at the 2023 annual meeting of the Canadian Society for the Study of Religion, this brief essay examines the discourse on the public relevance of religious studies scholarship. Specifically, it identifies the anxieties present in such discussions and the false theory–praxis binary on which they rely.
The Incidence of Thrombotic Events After the Concomitant Use of Andexanet alfa and 4-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate
Authors: Mohamed Adham , Shewmaker Justin , Berry Timothy , Blunck Joseph
Published: March 2024

Limited data exists on the safety and efficacy with the concomitant use of 4 factor prothrombic complex concentrate (4F-PCC) and andexanet alfa (AA). This case series describes 7 patients at our institution who received both 4F-PCC and AA for the management of life-threatening bleeding associated with apixaban or rivaroxaban. Four patients received AA due to worsening bleeding after 4F-PCC. Of the 7 patients in this case series, 1 had a documented thrombotic event which was an acute ischemic stroke. The thrombotic event rate in our case series was similar to the incidence of thrombotic events reported with the use of AA alone. In-hospital mortality occurred in 2 of 7 patients with 1 additional patient discharged to hospice care.