bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spiritual leadership and service performance among Chinese flight attendants: The mediating effects of meaningful work and work engagement
Authors: Wu Yaoliang , Li Shu , Ge Ning , Cui Huaiwei , Xu Quan , Ji Ming , Li Yuan , You Xuqun
Published: May 2023

As an irreplaceable part of flight crew for passenger carriage in big aircraft, flight attendants are responsible for cabin safety, security, passenger service and emergency during the flight. However, as the main interface between passengers and airlines, flight attendants’ delivering of high quality service is crucial in retention of passengers’ loyalty and airlines’ prosperity. Hence, how to promote flight attendants’ service performance during the flight is important in airline management. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to explore the roles of spiritual leadership, meaningful work, work engagement and flight attendants’ service performance in the sample of 313 Chinese flight attendants from China Eastern Airlines Co., Ltd. and its branches. Correlation analysis indicated that spiritual leadership, meaningful work, work engagement and service performance were significantly correlated with each other. Bootstrap analysis showed that meaningful work and work engagement not merely play a simple mediating role between spiritual leadership and service performance, but jointly play a chain mediating role. Theoretical implications for this research and managerial suggestions for how to improve flight attendants’ service performance in airline management are discussed.
Fractionating Chitin and Coproducts from Pleurotus ostreatus Mushrooms
Authors: Ayser Muhammad , Tony Wafa , Hernandez Isabella Sanchez , Kuriakose Rohana , Smith Justin , Wallaert Samuel J. , Alamgir Karim , Robertson Megan , balan venkatesh
Published: May 2023

A large amount of wasted mushroom stems are accumulated yearly by the mushroom industry. To reduce this waste, we have proposed a fractionation method to isolate several useful coproducts such as β-glucans, lipids, Vitamin D, polyphenols, and proteins before producing chitin from oyster mushrooms using reusable organic solvents. The extracted β-Glucans, polyphenols, and proteins were confirmed by 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS), Folin-Ciocalteau, and bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assays respectively. Extracted lipids were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and chitin was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and powder X-Ray diffraction (XRD). The crystallinity index of the extracted chitin was 71.2% when compared to 85% for crustacean chitin. The reduced crystallinity in mushroom chitin was due to the presence of some β-glucans. Overall, the reported fractionation method uses less solvent and provides a greener alternative to producing chitin when compared to the conventional methods of using a large quantity of harsh chemicals harmful to the environment. Further, fractionating several coproducts while producing chitin will reduce the total processing cost.
Fires in the South American Chaco, from dry forests to wetlands: response to climate depends on land cover
Authors: Martin Rodrigo San , Ottlé Catherine , Sörensson Anna
Published: May 2023

Background: Wildfires represent an important element in the biogeophysical cycles of various ecosystems across the globe and are particularly related to land transformation in tropical and subtropical regions. In this study we analyzed the links between fires, land use and meteorological variables in the South American Chaco (1.1 million km²), a global deforestation hotspot and fire prone region that has been highly neglected by environmental sciences so far.Results: Separating our analysis along the region’s marked precipitation gradient between the Wet Chaco (27%) and the Dry Chaco (73%), we combined satellite burnt area and land cover data together with meteorological products to study the fire patterns and drivers in the period 2001–2019. We found that the Dry Chaco has a unimodal fire seasonality (winter-spring) while the Wet Chaco has a bimodal seasonality (summer-autumn and winter-spring). While most of the burnt area was found in the Wet Chaco (113,859 km²; 55% of the entire burnt area), the Dry Chaco showed the largest fraction of forest loss (93,261 km²; 88% of the entire forest loss). For the whole Chaco, 26% of the forest loss was associated to burnt area detections, and this value changes among regions and countries, with Argentina standing as the country with both the largest absolute and fire-related forest loss (51,409 km² of total forest loss; ~40% fire-related). Land cover emerged as the principal factor behind fires, as it controls the effect of meteorological variability on fire exposure and the vulnerability of a region to fire ignition and expansion. While wet areas covered with herbaceous vegetation showed negative correlations with precipitation, some dry regions below 800 mm/year and mostly covered by shrublands, showed positive correlations with precipitation. These results reveal the two different roles of precipitation in a) the production of biomass fuel, and b) its subsequent availability for combustion.Conclusions: As fires and deforestation continue to expand in the South American Chaco while the evolving climate change increases the length of dry season and the frequency of extreme heat, there is an urgent need to conduct further studies in the area paying particular attention to the role and drivers of human fire ignition, combining environmental sciences with social sciences. Such research will help policy makers take action to preserve and protect the remaining forests and wetlands of the Chaco region.
Clinical application of serum CST4 combined with tumor markers in patients with digestive system malignancies
Authors: Zhou Dangui , Fan Xinyue , Xie Siqi , Lu Meiyi , Gao Lili , Zhang Ruyi , Zhu Mei
Published: May 2023

Background
To investigate the application value of plasma human cysteine protease inhibitor S (CST4) in the diagnosis of digestive system malignant tumors in our hospital.
Methods
Serum CST4, AFP, CEA, CA199, CA125, CA153 and CA724 were detected in 100 patients with digestive system malignant tumors and 100 patients with benign diseases.
Results
In the diagnosis of digestive system malignant tumors, the sensitivity of CST4 was higher than that of other indicators, and the specificity of CA153 and AFP was higher than that of other indicators. CST4 combined with AFP, CEA, CA199, CA125, CA153, and CA724 did not reduce the specificity, and the sensitivity, accuracy, and positive likelihood ratio of the detection were significantly improved.
Conclusions
The CST4 assay is a promising diagnostic tool. At the same time, combining the existing tumor markers with comprehensive judgment can improve the accuracy of the diagnosis of digestive system malignant tumors.
Arctic marine sediments reveal massive coastal permafrost erosion during the Bølling-Allerød warm period
Authors: Noormets Riko , Chauhan Teena , Mollenhauer Gesine , Hefter Jens , Grotheer Hendrik , Belt Simon , Colleoni Florence , Muschitiello Francesco , Pellegrini Claudio , Capotondi Lucilla , Tesi Tommaso , Nogarotto Alessio
Published: May 2023

The Bølling-Allerød interstadial (14.7-12.9 kyr BP), during the last deglaciation, was characterized by rapid retreat of ice sheets and significant sea level rise (Meltwater Pulse 1A, MWP-1A; 14.7-14.3 kyr BP). Yet, the response of the terrestrial cryosphere during this period of abrupt climate change remains elusive. Here we present a multi-proxy analysis of a sediment record from the upper slope of the Svalbard continental margin that encompasses the last 30 kyr. We show that the Last Glacial Maximum was characterised by the deposition of bedrock material locally sourced by the Barents Sea Ice Sheet. Instead, during MWP-1A permafrost-derived material rich in biospheric carbon became the dominant source of sediments despite the lack of any direct connection with permafrost deposits. Our results suggest massive erosion of Yedoma permafrost deposits during abrupt sea level rise followed by long-range sea ice transport within the Transpolar Drift towards the Arctic Ocean gateway. Overall, we show how permafrost is susceptible to large-scale remobilization in a scenario of rapid warming and sea level rise.
Bio-efficacy of pre- and post-emergence herbicides alone and in combination against herbicide resistant Phalaris minor in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Singh Raghuveer , Yadav Dharam Bir , Hooda V S
Published: June 2023

Herbicide resistance in littleseed canary grass (Phalaris minorRetz.) in wheat is a major concern along with crop residue management, which puts the question mark on sustainable growth of rice-wheat (R-W) system in north-western Indo-Gangetic Plains in long path. Crop rotation with integrated weed management is the best way to address or avert the herbicide resistance issues but due to cereal economics, cost and time bound obligations in dealing with weeds, farmers are still continuing with mono-cropping and relying on chemical weed control. Researchers were forced to think about herbicide rotation, by adopting the sequential or tank-mix applications of pre- and post-emergence herbicides. To evaluate the bio-efficacy of pre- and post-emergence herbicides alone and in combination againstPhalaris minorin wheat, a field experiment with 18 treatments was conducted on CCSHAU Regional Research Station, Karnal during therabiseasons of 2016-17 and 2017-18. Total seven herbicides three as pre-emergnce (pendimethalin, metribuzin and pyroxasulfone) and four as post-emergence (clodinafop, sulfosulfuron, pinoxaden and mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron RM) along with hand weeding were evaluated as alone or in combination as sequential or tank mix. Contrary to farmers’ fields, recommended herbicides are still providing good control ofP. minorat Research Farm, however their efficacy is also getting down. Yield loss could be restored by using already recommended herbicides in combination with pre-emergence herbicide pendimethalin or metribuzin. Overall, metribuzin (PRE) followed by sulfosulfuron (POE) (175fb25 g ha− 1) was found to be the best treatment in terms of weed control efficiency (WCE), grain yield, gross return, net return and B-C ratio. Mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron (ready-mix) alone and in combination with pre-emergence herbicides (metribuzin) also performed well against weeds (P. minoras well as broadleaf) but its consistency was poor. Pyroxasulfone was best herbicide againstP. minorwith complete control, but was not found that effective against broadleaf weeds mainlyMelilotusspp. and also caused crop phyto-toxicity at 128 g ha− 1but not that much pronounced at 105 g ha− 1.
Toxicity Effects of Lamiaceae, Geraniaceae, and Myrtaceae Essential Oils on Angoumois Grain Moth (Sitotrogacerealella) Female Adults
Authors: Ghoorchian Mojdeh , Rahmani Shima , Weisany Weria
Published: May 2023

The use of plant essential oils as eco-friendly and bio-rational insecticides has emerged as a promising alternative to hazardous fumigant pesticides for controlling stored product insect pests. This study investigated the vapor toxicity of essential oils obtained from the Lamiaceae, Geraniaceae, and Myrtaceae plant families against Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier) female adults, commonly known as the Angoumois grain moth. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed Thymol (56.36%), Citronellol (39.7%), Eugenol (80.0%), and Carvacrol (42.28%) as the primary components in Thymus vulgaris, Pelargonium roseum, Syzygium aromaticum, and Satureja hortensis, respectively. Probit analysis and fiducial Limit (FL) calculations determined the 24-hour toxicity (LC50) of the essential oils diluted in acetone (10%), resulting in LC50 values of 20.125 (19.002–21.372), 14.193 (13.044–15.575), 14.189 (12.570-15.879), and 13.562 (11.978–15.323) µgL-1(air) for T. vulgaris, P. roseum, S. aromaticum, and S. hortensis, respectively. Additionally, sublethal effects were observed at LC25 during the first generation. The treatments significantly impacted oviposition (F4,10=81.93; P < 0.0001), egg hatchability (F4,10=23.49; P = 0.0001), survival rate of larvae-pupae (F4,10=259.86; P = 0.0001), and egg duration (F4,10=9.71; P = 0.0018), leading to decreased values in these parameters. The essential oils derived from these four plant species demonstrate remarkable potential as eco-friendly components in the management of S. cerealella. Their vapor toxicity and sublethal effects on female adults underscore their effectiveness as sustainable tools within integrated pest management strategies for stored product pest control.
International shipping in a world below 2oC
Authors: Müller-Casseres Eduardo , Leblanc Florian , Berg Maarten van den , Fragkos Panagiotis , Dessens Olivier , Naghash Hesam , Draeger Rebecca , Gallic Thomas Le , Tagomori Isabela S. , Tsiropoulos Ioannis , Emmerling Johannes , Baptista Luiz Bernardo , Vuuren Detlef van , Giannousakis Anastasis , Drouet Laurent , Portugal-Pereira Joana , de Boer Harmen Sytze , Tsanakas Nikolaos , Rochedo Pedro RR , Szklo Alexandre , Schaeffer Roberto
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the decarbonisation of international shipping has become an important policy goal. While Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) are often used to explore climate mitigation strategies, they typically provide little information on international shipping, which accounts for around 0.75 GtCO2/yr. Here, we perform the first multi-IAM analysis of international shipping, drawing on the results of six global models. Results indicate the need for decreasing emissions in the next decades, with reductions up to 88% in 2050. This is primarily achieved through the deployment of low-carbon fuels. Models that represent several potential low-carbon alternatives tend to show a deeper decarbonisation of international shipping, with drop-in biofuels, renewable alcohols and green ammonia standing out as the main substitutes of conventional maritime fuels.
Effect of remote ischemic preconditioning on lung function after surgery under general anesthesia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kashiwagi Shizuka , Mihara Takahiro , Yokoi Ayako , Yokoyama Chisaki , Nakajima Daisuke , Goto Takahisa
Published: May 2023

Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) protects organs from ischemia-reperfusion injury. Recent trials showed that RIPC improved gas exchange in patients undergoing lung or cardiac surgery. We performed a systematic search to identify randomized controlled trials involving RIPC in surgery under general anesthesia. The primary outcome was the PaO2/FIO2 (P/F) ratio at 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes were A-a DO2, the respiratory index, duration of postoperative mechanical ventilation (MV), incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and serum cytokine levels. The analyses included 64 trials comprising 7232 patients. Patients with RIPC showed higher P/F ratio than controls (mean difference [MD] 36.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 12.8 to 60.4, I2=69%). The cause of heterogeneity was not identified by the subgroup analysis. Similarly, A-a DO2 (MD 15.2, 95% CI -29.7 to -0.6, I2=87%) and respiratory index (MD -0.17, 95% CI -0.34 to -0.01, I2=94%) were lower in the RIPC group. Additionally, the RIPC group was weaned from MV earlier (MD -1.0 hours, 95% CI -1.5 to -0.4, I2=78%). Furthermore, the incidence of ARDS was lower in the RIPC group (relative risk 0.73, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.89, I2=0%). Our meta-analysis suggested that RIPC improved oxygenation after surgery under general anesthesia.
Applicability of entomopathogenic fungi and essential oils against the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Fakeer Mahmoud , Hamam Gamal , Joo Jin , Hussein Khalid
Published: May 2023

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a key polyphagous pest because of the damage it causes to maize crops. The entomopathogenic fungi Metarhizium anisopliae AUMC2605 and Beauveria bassiana AUMC3563 were evaluated to manage S. frugiperda in the lab and field. Additionally, the toxicity of essential oils from Prunus amygdalus, Linum usitatissimum, Simmondsia chinensis, and Nigella sativa were detected against larvae S. frugiperda in the field. Using the drenches technique, the tested B. bassiana AUMC3563 and M. anisopliae AUMC2605 isolates were pathogenic to S. frugiperda and caused mortality ranging from 10.0 to 80.33%. The laboratory results indicated that B. bassiana AUMC3563 was more deadly than M. anisopliae AUMC2605. In the fifth instar larval stage S. frugiperda was not highly susceptible to the tested fungal isolates. However, the earlier instars larval of S. frugiperda were more susceptible to B. bassiana AUMC3563 and M. anisopliae AUMC2605. B. bassiana AUMC3563 caused the highest mortality of first, second, and third instar larvae at 5.6 × 107 conidia ml-1 in the laboratory. The field trial results also indicated that the entomopathogenic fungus B. bassiana AUMC3563 was more effective than M. anisopliae AUMC2605. These results assert the potentiality of entomopathogenic fungi and natural products as effective tools in sustainable and integrated pest management.
A Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation based groundwater quality classification for the Irrigation purpose: A case study from Tumkur district, Karnataka, India
Authors: M Thabrez , S Parimalarenganayaki
Published: June 2023

Sustainability of irrigated agriculture is based on the quality of water resources. Water Quality Indices are used to assess the suitability of irrigation water, however there are certain uncertainties when samples are to be classified near the boundary between two classes. Hence, the objective of the present study is to classify the groundwater for irrigation purpose in Tumkur district, Karnataka, India, using Fuzzy comprehensive evaluation approach for the crisp classification. The methodology of this study includes collection of 104 groundwater samples, assessment of hydrogeochemistry, and classification of groundwater by conventional and Fuzzy-logic technique. Hydrogeochemistry by Piper plot indicates mixed Na-Ca-HCO3 type and Gibbs plot indicates the influence of rock-water interactions. The water classification by conventional irrigation indices such as Electrical Conductivity, Sodium Absorption Ratio, Kelly Index, Percentage Sodium, Residual Sodium Carbonate and Magnesium Hazard showed that 2%, 0%, 86.5%, 40%, 25% (post monsoon) and 4%, 2%, 81%, 38.5%, 4% and 19.2% (pre-monsoon) of groundwater samples were not suitable, respectively. As various indices indicated dissimilar results, an integrated conventional index was evaluated by Fuzzy synthetic evaluation technique based on the Maximum Principle Membership and Fuzzy Class Ratio (FCR) and it showed 3.8% and 0.98% of samples were classified as Not suitable (Nʹ), respectively. However, FCR method was found to be effective in dealing variation in fuzzy boundary conditions and it showed 0.98%, 1.96%, 1.96%, 1.96% samples as not suitable at 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% of degree of variation near class boundaries, respectively. The study affirms that fuzziness in the data near class boundaries, consequently influencing the final classification.
Effect of Oil Heat Treatment on Mechanical Properties of Bamboo Fibers in Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Ouyang Feiyu , Wang Wei , he Hanbo
Published: May 2023

The impact of combined oil and thermal modification on the properties of bamboo was explored through macroscopic tests, but the internal mechanism remaine4d challenging to comprehend. To gain further insights, this research employed molecular dynamics simulation to estimate the mechanical properties, diffusion coefficient, cohesive energy density, and chain flexibility of bamboo fibers following oil heat treatment. A model of oil-cellulose composite was established and simulated at varying temperatures. Results showed that oil heat treatment led to higher mechanical strength and modulus of elasticity in bamboo fibers compared to untreated ones. Additionally, the increase in diffusion coefficient and cohesive energy density, as well as the optimization of cellulose chain flexibility, indicated an improvement in the fiber characteristics. Of note, the most significant enhancement in the mechanical properties of cellulose and the utilization rate of bamboo was observed after oil heat treatment at 180℃.
Self-assembled peptide/polymer hybrid nanoplatform for cancer immunostimulating therapies
Authors: Khazaei Saeedeh , Varela-Calviño Ruben , Rad-Malekshahi Mazda , Quattrini Federico , Jokar Safura , Rezaei Nima , Balalaie Saeed , Haririan Ismaeil , Csaba Noemi , Garcia-Fuentes Marcos
Published: May 2023

Integrating peptide epitopes in self-assembling materials is a successful strategy to obtain nanovaccines with high antigen density and improved efficacy. In this study, self-assembling peptides containingMAGE-A3/PADRE epitopes were designed to generate functional therapeutic nanovaccines. To achieve higher stability, peptide/polymer hybrid nanoparticles were formulated by controlled self-assembly of the engineered peptides. The nanoparticles showed good biocompatibility to both human red blood- and dendritic cells. Incubation of the nanoparticles with immature dendritic cells triggered immune effects that ultimately activated CD8+ cells. The antigen-specific and IgG antibody responses of healthy C57BL/6 mice vaccinated with the nanoparticles were analyzed. The in vivo results indicate a specific response to the nanovaccines, mainly mediated through a cellular pathway. This research indicates that the immunogenicity of peptide epitope vaccines can be effectively enhanced by developing self-assembled peptide-polymer hybrid nanostructures.
The effects of methylphenidate and atomoxetine on Drosophila brain at single-cell resolution and potential drug repurposing for ADHD treatment
Authors: Qu Susu , Zhou Xiangyu , Wang Zhicheng , Wei Yi , Zhou Han , Zhang Xinshuang , Zhu Qingjie , Wang Yanmin , Yang Quanjun , Jiang Likun , Ma Yuan , Gao Yuan , Kong Lei , Zhang Li
Published: June 2023

The stimulant methylphenidate (MPH) and the non-stimulant atomoxetine (ATX) are frequently used for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, the function of these drugs in different types of brain cells and their effect on related genes remain largely unknown. To address these questions, we built a pipeline for the simultaneous examination of the activity behavior and transcriptional responses of Drosophila melanogaster at single-cell resolution following drug treatment. We captured the hyperactivity-like behavior using EasyFlyTracker following the administration of each drug. Subsequently, unsupervised clustering analysis of scRNASEQ for 82,917 cells yielded 28 primary cell clusters representing the major cell types in adult Drosophila brain. Indeed, both neuronal and glial cells responded to MPH and ATX treatment. Further analysis of differentially expressed genes revealed distinct transcriptional changes associated with these two drugs. For instance, two well-studied dopamine metabolism genes (Dop2R and DopEcR) were responsive to MPH but not to ATX at their optimal doses, in addition to genes involved in dopamine metabolism pathways such as Syt1, Sytalpha, Syt7, and Ih in different cell types. MPH also suppressed the expression of genes encoding other neurotransmitter receptors and synaptic signaling molecules in many cell types, while the responsive effects of ATX were much weaker. In addition to monoaminergic neuronal transmitters, other neurotransmitters have also shown a similar pattern with respect to a stronger effect associated with MPH than with ATX. Moreover, we identified four distinct glial cell subtypes responsive to the two drugs and detected a greater number of differentially expressed genes associated with ensheathing and astrocyte-like glia. Furthermore, our study provides a rich resource of candidate target genes for drug repurposing, which can be found at ADHDrug (http://adhdrug.cibr.ac.cn/). In conclusion, we propose a fast and cost-efficient pipeline to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of ADHD drug treatment in Drosophila brain at single-cell resolution, which may further facilitate drug repurposing applications.
Psychosomatic states and their correlation with fluidity of consciousness related to letting go two newly evaluated core factors for investigating the therapeutic effect of spa treatment
Authors: Vion-Dury Jean , Micoulaud-Franchi Jean-Arthur , Grousset Blandine , Kanny Gisèle , Dubois Olivier
Published: May 2023

Spa therapy (aka crenobalneotherapy) has been the object of criticism due to insufficient evidence of its effectiveness. While further effectiveness studies are needed, others are also required to better evaluate the curative factors involved during spa therapy that may contribute to the effectiveness. The current study used specific scales to investigate two possible curative factors: the psychosomatic state and the letting go of patients with mental disorders after three weeks of spa therapy. The Saujon Psychosomatic Questionnaire (SPQ) and the Quantified Assessment of Fluidity of Consciousness Questionnaire (QACF) evaluate psychosomatic state and letting go, respectively. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD) and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) evaluate depression and anxiety symptoms and insomnia symptoms respectively. Sixty-five subjects (57 women − 87.69%; 8 men), mean age 56.9 (+/- 9.7) years were included. SPQ and QAFC scores improved significantly before and after the three weeks of spa therapy. Improvement in HAD and ISI scores was significantly correlated with SPQ and QACF scores. These preliminary results suggest that the induced psychosomatic state and the letting go induced by spa treatment with bubbling baths, jet showers, pool bathing and massage could help patients to become more available and more able to change their psycho-physiological state.
Mechanism of SOX9 nuclear translocation induced by NF1 mutation promoting neurofibroma proliferation and collagen secretion
Authors: Yao Xuan , Wang Bo , Su Yuanping , Bing Zhitong , Li Qiao , Dong Qiang , Yin Hang , Wang Jianying , Pan Yawen , Yuan GuoQiang
Published: May 2023

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is caused by NF1 gene mutations. Patients with NF1 often have complications with tumors, such as neurofibroma. In order to investigate the pathogenesis of human neurofibroma, a systematic comparison of protein expression levels between Schwann cell-like sNF96.2 cells, originating from malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST), and normal Schwann cells was performed using 4-D label-free proteomic analysis. In addition, the expression levels and localization of dysregulated proteins were confirmed using a Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) transcriptomic dataset, Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence labeling. The effects of SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) in the neurofibroma and surrounding microenvironment were evaluated in vivo using a tumor transplantation model. The present study observed that SOX9 and procollagen C-endopeptidase enhancer (PCOLCE) were significantly altered. NF1 mutation promoted the nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity of SOX9 in neurofibromas. SOX9 increased collagen VI secretions by enhancing the activation of PCOLCE in neurofibroma cells. These findings might provide new perspectives on the pathophysiological significance of SOX9 in neurofibromas and elucidate a novel molecular mechanism underlying neurofibromas.
Development of Multi-Target Pharmacophore-Based Virtual Screening Agent Against COVID-19
Authors: Ibrahim Nashwa , Gouda Ahmed , El-Sherief Hany
Published: May 2023

The worldwide outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic compelled scientists to develop new, highly effective therapeutic approaches to fight it. Multitarget drugs have been proven to be effective in managing complex disorders. But designing multitarget drugs is a great challenge. In this study, to prevent lack of efficacy due to viral mutation escape, a multi-target agent against the COVID-19 virus was discovered. As crucial targets, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), COVID-19 main protease (Mpro), and SARS-CoV-2 Nsp15 were selected. A pharmacophore model was developed using the native ligands of the chosen targets. This model was used to screen the ZINC Drug Database for commercially available compounds having similar features to the experimentally tested drugs. Pharmacophore-based virtual screening yielded 1331 hits, which were further docked into the binding sites of selected proteins using PyRx AutoDock Vina. Evaluation of docking results revealed that glisoxepide (Zn 00537804) has the highest binding scores for the three target proteins. It showed binding free energies of -6.8, -6.2, and -7.8 kcal/mol towards SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, Nsp15, and RdRp, respectively. According to an in silicoADME study, glisoxepide follows Lipinski's rule. The results of a molecular dynamics simulation study and subsequent investigations showed that glisoxepide had good dynamics and stability within the active sites of selected targets. The promise of glisoxepide as a potential treatment for SARS-CoV-2 still needs to be further evaluated through experimental research.
Carbon Sources Applications Influencing Growth, Digestive Enzyme Activity and Hematological Profile in Gif Tilapia Reared in Biofloc Supported Systems
Authors: Malreddy Joshna , Baboonsundaram Ahilan , Antony Cheryl , Lingam Somu Sunder , Shankar Mahalakshmi
Published: May 2023

The present study was performed to investigate on the effect of different carbon sources in biofloc based system for rearing Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) fingerlings. The study comprised of utilizing four different carbon sources viz., Jaggery, Soyahull pellets, Rice starch and Molasses. The experiments were conducted in triplicates. Aquarium tank (100L capacity) was stocked with 10 fingerlings with an average body weight of 4.02 ± 0.146 g. At the end of the experimental trial, growth performance of GIFT, reared in different biofloc based systems, did not exhibit any significant variations. Maximum survival (100%) of GIFT was observed in the jaggery and soyahull pellets based biofloc systems. Digestive enzyme activity in jaggery based biofloc reared fish showed significant variation in protease (0.3127 ± 0.014 Units mg protein− 1) and amylase (0.0349 ± 0.003 Units mg protein− 1) activities when compared to fingerlings reared in other biofloc treatments. Highest values in White Blood Cells (46.57 ± 1.65 1000/cu mm), hematocrit (14.26 ± 0.38%) and mean corpuscular volume (141.57 ± 2.4 fl) were recorded in soyahull pellet carbon source biofloc supported system. Proximate composition of the soyahull pellet carbon source based biofloc showed significant variation in protein level (36.26 ± 1.5%) followed by jaggery (32.72 ± 1.130%) and molasses (33.48 ± 0.737%). The present study concluded that jaggery followed by soyahull pellet are best carbon sources, compared to other carbon sources for rearing GIFT fingerling which resulted in better growth, hematology profile and digestive enzyme activities.
The efficacy of spatio-temporal predictors in forecasting the risk of Cydia nigricana infestation
Authors: Riemer Natalia , Schieler Manuela , Saucke Helmut
Published: May 2023

The ability to estimate the risk of pest infestation can help cultivators to reduce pesticide application and provide guidance that would result in better management decisions. This study tested whether different combinations of spatial and temporal risk factors can be used to predict the damage potential of Cydia nigricana, a major pest in field pea (Pisum sativum). Over four consecutive years, the abundance of pea moth was monitored by placing pheromone traps at different field pea cultivation sites. We also assessed the phenological development stages and the percentage of damaged seeds per 100 pods collected from each growing pea field in a region of approximately 30 km in diameter. The study found the significant infestation risk indicators to be the time of flowering, the date on which male pea moths are first detected in the monitoring traps, and the minimum distance (MD) to pea fields that were planted and harvested in the previous growing season. The combination of all three factors using a general additive model (GAM) approach yielded the best results. The model proposed by this study accurately discriminated between low-infestation and high-infestation fields in 97% of cases.
Targeting macrophagic PIM-1 alleviates osteoarthritis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via suppressing mitochondrial ROS/ Cl- efflux signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Xie Shujun , Qian Jin , Gao Fengqiang , Jin Wenjian , Wang Lingqiao , Yan Lili , Chen Hao , Yao Wangxiang , Li Maoqiang , Wang Xuepeng , Zhu Liulong
Published: May 2023

Background
Osteoarthritis (OA), in which macrophage-driven synovitis is considered closely related to cartilage destruction and could occur at any stage, is an inflammatory arthritis. However, there are no effective targets to cure the progression of OA. The NLRP3 inflammasome in synovial macrophages participates in the pathological inflammatory process and treatment strategies targeting it are considered to be an effective approach for OA. PIM-1 kinase, as a downstream effector of many cytokine signaling pathways, plays a pro-inflammatory role in inflammatory disease.
Methods
In this study, we evaluated the expression of the PIM-1 and the infiltration of synovial macrophages in the OA human synovium OA. The effects and mechanism of PIM-1 were investigated in mice and human macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and different agonists such as nigericin, ATP, MSU, and Alum. The protective effects on chondrocytes were assessed by a modified co-culture system induced by macrophage CM. The therapeutic effect in vivo was confirmed by the medial meniscus (DMM)-induced OA in mice.
Results
The expression of PIM-1 was increased in the human OA synovium which was accompanied by the infiltration of synovial macrophages. In vitro experiments, suppression of PIM-1 by SMI-4a, a specific inhibitor, rapidly inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome activation in mice and human macrophages. In addition, PIM-1 suppression had broad inhibitory functions against NLRC4, and AIM2 inflammasome activation and GSDME-mediated pyroptosis. Furthermore, PIM-1 inhibition specifically blocked the apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC) oligomerization in the assembly stage. Mechanistically, PIM-1 inhibition alleviated the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS)/ chloride intracellular channel proteins (CLICs)-dependent Cl- efflux signaling pathway, which eventually resulted in the blockade of the ASC oligomerization and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Furthermore, PIM-1 suppression showed chondroprotective effects in the modified co-culture system. Finally, SMI-4a significantly suppressed the expression of PIM-1 in the synovium and reduced the synovitis scores and the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) score in the destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM)-induced OA model.
Conclusions
Therefore, PIM-1 represented a new class of promising targets as a treatment of OA to target these mechanisms in macrophages and widened the road to therapeutic strategies for OA.
Analysis of risk factors related to early implant failure: a retrospective study
Authors: Lin Zhe-Zhen , Jiang Zheng-Ting , Ding Xi
Published: May 2023

Objective
This study investigated the factors associated with early implant failure.
Material and methods
This retrospective study was conducted on 3,247 implants in 2,061 patients. Patient-related and surgery-related factors, including smoking, sex, diabetes, bone grafting, implant length, implant width, implant design, adjacent teeth, and insertion torque, were manually retrieved and analyzed. Using univariate and multivariate analyses, a generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was employed to evaluate factors related to early implant failure.
Results
The mean age of the patients was 49.2 ± 15.0 (18–91) years. Ninety-nine implants failed during the healing period. Three factors were statistically significant regarding early implant failure: smoking (odds ratio [OR] = 7.060, P = 0.008), implant design (OR = 6.983, P = 0.008), and implant length (OR = 7.500, P = 0.006). Factors including diabetes, bone grafting, location, adjacent teeth (root canal therapy in the adjacent teeth and the distance between the implant and adjacent teeth), healing method, and insertion torque did not exhibit a significantly higher early implant failure rate. Ninety-three sites with failed implants received replantation, and six implants failed during the healing period.
Conclusions
This retrospective study identified three factors associated with early implant failure: smoking, implant design, and implant length. A prospective study with larger sample size is needed in the future.
Clinical relevance:
There is fierce debate on the factors influencing early implant failure (failure during the healing period) in the rehabilitation and restoration of oral function in partially edentulous patients.
Screening and validation of plasma cell-derived, purinergic, and calcium signalling-related gene signatures to predict prognosis and PD- L1/PD-1 blockade responses in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Junfeng , Hu Bingqi , Fan Xingyu , Chen Liwen
Published: May 2023

Background This study aims to screen and validation of prospective gene signatures for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) prognosis and treatment.Methods The immune-related genes (IRGs) were obtained from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) dataset where a total of 535 LUAD and 59 control samples were included. A risk model was then developed for the risk stratification of LUAD patients. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) were used to explore the biological processes and signalling pathways associated with the IRGs. Finally, IRGs mRNA levels were assayed by reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR).Results Two IRGs, P2RX1 (purinergic receptor P2X 1) and PCP4 (Purkinje cell protein 4), were screened from a module that possesses the highest correlation with plasma cells. RT-qPCR verified the expression of the two IRGs in plasmacytoma cell RPMI 8226 but not in LUAD cells. A higher risk score is associated with a lower infiltration of immune cells. Kaplan-Meier and Nomogram analysis showed that the high-risk group has a lower survival rate than the low-risk cohort. Furthermore, the high-risk group had a worse response rate to PDL1/PD-1 blockade. GSVA and GSEA-GO results indicated that a lower risk score is linked to signalling pathways and biological functions promoting immune response and inflammation. In contrast, a higher risk score is associated with signalling cascades promoting tumour growth.Conclusion The immune-related prognostic model based on P2RX1 and PCP4 is conducive to predicting the therapeutic response of PD-L1/PD-1 blockade and clinical outcomes of LUAD.
Use of Home and Community-Based Services and Loneliness in Older People with Functional Limitations
Authors: Zhang Jinxin , Sun Xiaojie , Yao Aaron
Published: June 2023

Background Loneliness is one of the major health problems among older adults. Home and community-based services (HCBS) have become increasingly popular. Despite their health benefits, little is known about the relationship between HCBS use and loneliness in older people with functional limitations. Here, we aim to explore the characteristics of loneliness among older people with functional limitations and examine the association between HCBS use and loneliness in China. Methods We used data from the 2018 Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, which includes a nationally representative sample of Chinese residents aged 65 and older with functional limitations. Logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between HCBS use and loneliness, and we further used propensity score matching to account for the potential selection. Result In China, 46% of functionally limited older adults felt lonely and only 22% of functionally limited older adults reported using HCBS in 2018. Compared with participants who did not receive HCBS, those who received HCBS were less likely to report loneliness (OR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.63, 0.99,p = 0.048), and the results remained significant after adjusting for confounding using propensity score matching. Conclusion Our results showed that loneliness was common among functionally impaired older people in China, and the proportion of HCBS use was low. There was robust evidence to support that among people with functional limitations, HCBS use was associated with less loneliness. Further policies should promote the development of broader HCBS use for older people with functional impairments to reduce their loneliness.
Forest carbon stock budget development following extreme drought- induced dieback of coniferous stands in Central Europe – a CBM-CFS3 model application
Authors: Cienciala Emil , Melichar Jan
Published: May 2023

Background
The aim of this contribution is to analyze the forest carbon budget development following the recent historically unprecedented dieback of coniferous stands in the Czech Republic. The drought-induced bark-beetle infestation resulted in record-high sanitary logging, turning the Czech forestry from a long-term carbon sink offsetting about 6% of the country's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions since 1990 to a significant source of CO2 emissions in recent years (2018–2021). In 2020, the forestry sector accounted for almost 10% of the country's overall GHG emissions. Using the nationally calibrated Carbon Budget Model of the Canadian Forest Sector at a regional spatial resolution, we analyzed the trend and scenarios of forest carbon budget development until 2070. Two critical points arise: the short-term prognosis for reducing current emissions from forestry and the implementation of adaptive forest management focused on tree species change and sustained carbon accumulation.
Results
This study used four different scenarios to assess the impact of adaptive forest management on the forest carbon budget and CO2 emissions, tree species composition, harvest possibilities, and forest structure in response to the recent calamitous dieback in the Czech Republic. The model analysis indicates that the Czech forestry may stabilize by 2025, or at the latest, by the end of this decade. Subsequently, it may become a sustained sink of about 3 Mt CO2 eq./year (excluding contribution of harvested wood products), while enhancing forest resilience by the gradual implementation of necessary adaptation measures that ensure the provision of all expected forest functions to society. The speed of adaptation is linked to harvest intensity and severity of the current calamity. Under the most severe black scenario, the proportion of unstable spruce stands declines from the current 43% to approximately 25% by 2070, in favor of more suited tree species such as fir and broadleaves. These species would also constitute about 50% of the harvest potential, while maintaining levels generated by the Czech forestry prior to the current calamity.
Conclusion
The results show progress of stabilizing CO2 emissions, implementing tree species change, and quantifying the expected harvest and mitigation potential in Czech forestry until 2070.
Bifurcation studies, chaotic pattern, phase diagrams and multiple optical solitons for the (2+1)-dimensional stochastic coupled nonlinear Schrödinger system with multiplicative white noise via Itô calculus
Authors: Tang Lu
Published: June 2023

The stochastic coupled nonlinear Schrödinger systems are very important equations which can be wildly used in the fields of the optical-fiber communications, nonlinear optics, plasma physics, ecological system, statistical mechanics and so on. This work mainly focuses on dynamical behavior, phase portraits, chaotic behavior and multiple optical solitons for the (2+1)-dimensional stochastic coupled nonlinear Schrödinger system with multiplicative white noise. Here, we analytically deduced bright solitons, dark solitons and periodic solutions through the bifurcation theory. Additionally , some other bounded traveling wave solutions which include Jacobi elliptic function solutions, trigonometric function solutions, rational function solutions, hyperbolic function solutions and solitary wave solutions are also obtained by using the symbolic computation as well as the complete discriminant system method. It is worth noting that we give the classification of all single traveling wave solutions at the same time. Finally, in order to further explore the propagation of the (2+1)-dimensional stochastic coupled nonlinear Schrödinger system in nonlinear optics, three-dimensional, two-dimensional, density graphs and contour graphs are also given.
Shift Scheduling for Railway Corrective Maintenance Personnel Balancing
Authors: GENÇER Muhammed Abdullah , ALAKAŞ Hacı Mehmet , EREN Tamer
Published: May 2023

Railway maintenance costs have gained more importance compared to previous years, with the increase in global energy costs in recent years. The personnel who directly affect the maintenance costs also constitute an important part of the costs. Therefore, maintenance personnel planning, personnel productivity, and suitability of their qualifications for maintenance work are very important. In this study, the maintenance personnel problem of Ankara Metro, where almost 4 thousand train maintenance activities occur annually for 16 main faults and 108 sub-fault types, is discussed. The qualifications and competencies of the personnel have been evaluated according to the fault types and it has tried to assign suitable personnel for maintenance works. In addition, while the maintenance durations have been evaluated together with the personnel productivity, maintenance activities have been carried out during the shift periods. To meet the expectations of maintenance personnel and increase their productivity, the Goal Programming method has been used, which allows us to achieve multiple goals. As a result of the solution, shift wages and total working times were balanced. It is thought that this study, in which personnel qualifications and expectations are evaluated together with their maintenance periods, will contribute to the literature.
Whole-exome sequencing reveals mutational profiles of anorectal and gynecological melanoma
Authors: Wei Sun , Liu Kunyan , Zhao Fang , Zhou Hongyu , Dong Yan , Xu Yu , Kong Yunyi , Wang Minghe , Xi Cheng , Chen Yong
Published: May 2023

Mucosal melanoma is a rare and highly malignant type of melanoma. Among the sites that mucosal melanoma arises, anorectal and gynecological melanoma has more aggressive behavior and worse prognosis. There was no effective therapy for mucosal melanoma at present. Only a small number of mucosal melanoma patients which harbor mutations in BRAF or KIT benefit from targeted therapy. So it’s an urgent need to identify more actionable mutations in mucosal melanoma. To identify more potential therapeutic targets in mucosal melanoma, 48 samples were collected from 44 patients with anorectal or gynecological melanoma and subjected to whole-exome sequencing. The tumor mutation burden was low with a median of 1.75 mutations per Mb. In chromosomal level, 1q, 6p and 8q of mucosal melanoma were significantly amplified while 9p, 10p, 10q, 16p and 16q were significantly deleted. Muc16 was the most frequently mutated oncogene in our samples(25%). The mutation frequency of KIT(20%) was comparable to the "triple-wild" genes-NRAS(20%), NF1(20%) and BRAF(11%). KMT2D mutation was found in 18.18% patients, which is previously unidentified. MAPK signaling pathway and lysine degradation were the most frequently mutated pathways. Moreover, patients with TP53 mutations tend to have worse clinical outcome (median survival time 19 vs. 50 months, log-rank P = 0.006). M 2000 ore mutated genes involved in MAPK signaling pathway were identified, which expand the patients potentially benefit from ample MAPK inhibitors. KMT2D could be a potential therapeutic target. Moreover, TP53 could be a potential prognosis marker for mucosal melanoma.