bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mendelian randomization analysis of the genetic causal relationship between different labor anesthesia methods and adverse neonatal outcomes
Authors: Zhang Yajun , Qu Danyang , Wang Shanshan , Dou Haiping , Xiu Yufang , Wang Yuqian , Yang Liu
Published: July 2024

Background
Despite the lack of data from randomized controlled trials, studies have indicated that labor anesthesia may be associated with neonatal asphyxia and adverse neonatal neurological outcomes. We used a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the causal relationships between different labor anesthesia methods, neonatal asphyxia, and adverse neonatal neurological outcomes.
Method
We collected genome-wide association study (GWAS) data, including spinal, epidural, and other labor anesthesia methods, as well as neonatal asphyxia and adverse neurological outcomes (cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Data on different delivery analgesia methods sourced from the Integrative Epidemiology Unit Open GWAS project were used as exposure data. Neonatal asphyxia and neurological adverse outcomes sourced from the FinnGen consortium R10 were used as the outcome data. A two-sample MR was used to evaluate the effects of different delivery analgesia methods on neonatal asphyxia and three adverse neurological outcomes in newborns to determine the existence of a causal relationship between them. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was used for MR analysis and a series of sensitivity analyses were conducted.
Results
Spinal, epidural, and other methods of labor anesthesia were not associated with neonatal asphyxia (odds ratio [OR]IVW = 1.302, P = 0.749; ORIVW = 1.431, P = 0.622; ORIVW = 0.695, P = 0.688, respectively), cerebral palsy (ORIVW = 0.759, P = 0.480; ORIVW = 0.701, P = 0.319; ORIVW = 0.695, 95% P = 0.688; ORIVW = 1.288, P = 0.523, respectively), intellectual disability (ORIVW = 1.309, P = 0.351; ORIVW = 0.744, P = 0.331; ORIVW = 0.712, P = 0.313, respectively), or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ORIVW = 1.163, P = 0.778; ORIVW = 1.012, 95% P = 0.979; ORIVW = 0.972, P = 0.944, respectively). Sensitivity analysis showed no heterogeneity or pleiotropic effects, and the results were reliable.
Conclusion
Our MR study based on genetic data does not support the existence of a causal relationship between different labor anesthesia methods and neonatal asphyxia or adverse neonatal neurological outcomes. Thus, labor pain relief methods can be selected based on the mother's needs and condition without increasing associated risks.
Associations between NHHR and Osteoporosis in the US NHANES Elderly Population
Authors: Liu Zhiwen , Wu Jianjun , Xiong Sicheng , Peng Zijing , Zhong Yelin , Zhang Zhihai , Huang Hongxing
Published: July 2024

Background
Recent research suggests that the ratio of non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (NHHR) is emerging as a possible marker for various health issues. However, its correlation with osteoporosis has not been explored. This study aims to explore how NHHR is linked to the likelihood of osteoporosis in older individuals.
Methods
The study examined the connection between NHHR and osteoporosis in people who are 50 years old and above, utilizing information from the 2005–2010 NHANES. Various statistical analyses were performed, including multivariate logistic regression, analysis using restricted cubic splines, and subgroup analyses, while controlling for relevant demographic and clinical factors.
Results
A total of 5548 individuals were included, with 313 diagnosed with osteoporosis. The examination reveals a notable negative correlation between NHHR and osteoporosis. Individuals in the top quartile of NHHR had a significantly reduced risk of osteoporosis in comparison to those in the bottom quartile [OR 0.63 (95% CI 0.44–0.90, P for trend = 0.004)].The analysis using RCS showed a non-linear connection between NHHR and osteoporosis (P for overall < 0.001, P for nonlinear = 0.008). Subgroup analyses demonstrated consistent findings across various demographic and clinical subgroups.
Conclusions
In individuals aged 50 and above, there is a significant correlation between elevated NHHR levels and a reduced likelihood of developing osteoporosis. This study demonstrates that NHHR may serve as a valuable marker for assessing osteoporosis risk in this population, suggesting that incorporating NHHR into routine clinical assessments could enhance early detection and prevention strategies for osteoporosis.
Dietary inclusion of fibrous corn silages reduces gastric mucosa damage in fattening heavy pigs
Authors: Spanghero Mauro , Braidot Matteo , Orioles Massimo , Sarnataro Chiara , Pividori Isabella , Romanzin Alberto
Published: July 2024

Background
Several surveys conducted at slaughter sites have highlighted that gastric lesions are a widespread issue in fattening pigs, mainly due to feeding regimes. In fact, diets with small particle sizes and low fibre contents guarantee high digestibility and performance but generate more rapid stomach emptying with a negative effect on gastric mucosa integrity. Providing fattening pigs with fibrous materials (e.g., straw provided in racks) or coarse fibrous ingredients (e.g., coarse silages) reduced the presence of gastric ulcers. The present research compares a traditional corn-soy-based diet with an experimental diet where bran and a portion of corn meal were substituted with whole ear and whole plant corn silages at the maximum dosages permitted by new Protected Designation of Origin for Italian dry-cured ham (20 and 10% of DM, respectively). The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the inclusion of corn silages in the diet on the productive performance of heavy Italian pigs and their ability to mitigate gastric mucosa damage.
Results
The growth performances were satisfactory (750-800 g/d) given the advanced interval of growth of animals (from 120 to 180 kg). However, the inclusion of corn silages tended to reduce the growth rate by 5-6% due to the reduction of organic matter digestibility, without compromising the slaughter traits or the back-fat fatty acid profile. The experimental diet substantially affected both stomach development and mucosal integrity. The first consequence was an increase in stomach weight of approximately 6% (P < 0.01) but the most notable advantage of coarse feeding was a reduction in stomach damage severity, with a low number of cases with higher scores in animals fed coarse materials (P < 0.01).
Conclusions
The dietary inclusion of corn silages (30% of diet DM) is effective in decreasing the severity of stomach damage in finishing heavy pigs. Based on the performance of the feeding trial, the perspective of feeding heavy pigs corn silage should consider specific agronomic and harvesting techniques to improve digestibility and not reduce the growth rate.
Characteristics of ecological enzymes and nutrients mediated by soil microorganisms in a subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest under nitrogen deposition
Authors: Li Xiaodong , SU Lianbo , Wang Keqin , Song Chenggong , Song Yali
Published: July 2024

Microorganisms are critical in forest ecosystems, where they secrete soil ecological enzymes and mediate nutrient cycling. These processes are essential in determining how these ecosystems respond to nitrogen (N) deposition inputs. In this study, an N deposition experiment was conducted with three levels of N addition treatments in a subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest in southwest China. The aim was to identify the effects of low (LN: 10 g·m−2·yr−1), medium (MN: 20 g·m−2·yr−1), and high N addition (HN: 25 g·m−2·yr−1) on soil microbial community structure, diversity, ecological enzyme activities, and nutrient content, and to explore whether and how soil microorganisms influence ecological enzyme activity and nutrient cycling. Our observations indicated that surface soil exhibited the highest microbial diversity, ecological enzyme activities, and nutrient contents. N deposition led to a reduction in soil bacterial and fungal diversity, with bacterial diversity consistently higher than fungal diversity. Moreover, bacterial community structures were generally more diverse and complex compared to fungal communities. The study emphasized that bacteria were relatively enriched under LN treatment, while fungi exhibited higher relative abundance under control conditions. Different soil microbial groups exhibited distinct responses to N deposition, with an inhibitory effect on enzyme activities such as invertase (Inv), urease (Ure), and acid phosphatase (ACP), and an enhancement of catalase (CAT) activity. With increasing N deposition levels, soil organic carbon (SOC), total N (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) contents decreased, whereas total potassium (TK), nitrate N (NO3—-N), and ammonium N (NH4+-N) exhibited the opposite trend. Co-linearity network analysis revealed stronger interactions among soil bacteria compared to fungi. The dominant bacterial phyla Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia showed stronger correlations with Ure and ACP, respectively, while Acidobacteria exhibited a higher correlation with TP. Among the dominant fungal phyla, Basidiomycota had stronger correlations with CAT, NO3—-N, and NH4+-N, while Ascomycota was notably associated with Inv. These results suggest that soil bacteria have stronger correlations with ecological enzymes, whereas soil fungi are more closely related to nutrient dynamics. This implies that bacteria and fungi have distinct advantages in enzyme secretion and nutrient mediation, leading to a trend of nutritional complementarity.
Transcriptome-wide N6-methyladenosine modification profiling of long non-coding RNAs in patients with recurrent implantation failure
Authors: Wang Ting , Zhang Lili , Gao Wenxin , Liu Yidan , Yue Feng , Ma Xiaoling , Liu Lin
Published: July 2024

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in most biological processes and actively participates in the regulation of reproduction. According to recently research, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their m6A modifications are involved in reproductive diseases. In the present study, using m6A modified RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (m6A-seq), the m6A methylation transcription profiles in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) were established for the first time. 1443 significantly up-regulated m6A peaks and 425 significantly down-regulated m6A peaks were identified in RIF. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis revealed that genes associated differentially methylated lncRNAs were involved in classical p53 signaling pathway and amino acid metabolism. Then, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network revealed a regulatory relationship between lncRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) and mRNAs. The m6A methylation abundances of lncRNAs were verified by m6A-RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP)-qPCR in this study. This study will lay a foundation for further exploration of the potential role of m6A modification in the pathogenesis of RIF.
A deletion in a photosynthesis-related gene (PpPSAK) determines the anthocyanin accumulation in the mesocarp of French blood-flesh peaches
Authors: HEURTEVIN Laure , CONFOLENT Carole , LAMBERT Patrick , BUREAU Sylvie , PASCAL Thierry , SHEN Zhijun , QUILOT Bénédicte
Published: July 2024

Accumulation of anthocyanin pigments is a primary determinant of fruit quality in peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch). The recessive blood-flesh trait (bf), identified in French cultivars has been first mapped on chromosome 4. However, the underlying gene has yet been identified. In this study, the genetic, molecular and transcriptional bases of the bf trait were investigated. Blood-flesh cultivars showed high levels of cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside in the fruit mesocarp about 45–60 days after anthesis. A fine mapping coupled to a positional cloning strategy mapped the bf locus to a 80-kb interval on peach linkage group (LG) 4. The sequence polymorphism analysis of genes present in this interval allowed the identification of only one candidate gene for bf as being a deletion of 21-bp in exon 3 of a PSAK-like gene. A specific marker of the deletion was developed and validated in various genetic backgrounds. An expression study of PpPSAK as well as structural, regulatory and photosynthesis related genes was performed on a kinetic from 60 days after blooming up to fruit maturity. Overexpression of PpPSAK in flesh and midrib of bf fruit was correlated with expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes. Interactions between proteins were observed and open discussion on functional pathways.
Predicting Maximum Amplitude and Rise Time of Solar Cycle 25 Using Modified Geomagnetic Precursor Technique
Authors: Rajwanshi Anushree , Kumar Sachin , Das Rupesh M. , Srivast Nandita , Sharma Kavita
Published: July 2024

The sun is rapidly approaching towards the pinnacle of its activity in ongoing cycle 25. Solar activity variations cause changes in interplanetary and near-Earth space environment and may deteriorate the operation of space-borne and ground based technological systems (space flights, navigation, radars, high-frequency radio communications, ground power lines, etc.). Scientists predict the exact duration and intensity of each solar cycle based on a variety of methods ranging from purely statistical models using observations of previous cycles to complex simulations of solar physics. In the present study, we utilized the planetary magnetic activity ‘Ap’ index in relation to sunspot activity and sunspot area for the period 1932–2019, covering Solar Cycles 17 to 24, as geomagnetic precursor pair for predicting the maximum amplitude and its time of occurrence for ongoing Cycle 25. The monthly average sunspot data and disturbed days are processed through regression analysis and the obtained analytical results further validated by the observed sunspots of cycle 17 to 24. Hind casting results show close agreement between predicted and observed maximum amplitudes of cycles 17 to 24 to about 10 percent. A multivariate fit using the two best DI indices in variate block 9 also gives the similar correlation to about 0.94 with standard error of estimation (±14). This study divulges that the maximum sunspot number for Solar Cycle 25 is expected to be ≈ 112 ± 18. The probable peak time of cycle 25, after analysis, is found to be 48 ± 3 months. The peak might appear in between October 2023 – April 2024. The obtained results suggest that ongoing cycle akin to the previous Solar Cycle 24 in terms of predicted maximum sunspot numbers.
Association of Early Perioperative Stroke After Cardiothoracic Surgery with Intraoperative Regional Cerebral Oxygenation Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy: Comparing Affected Versus Non-Affected Hemispheres
Authors: Pierik Ramon , Scheeren Thomas W.L. , Erasmus Michiel E. , Bergh Walter M. van den
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery are at risk of developing perioperative stroke, but residual effects of anaesthesia may hamper timely detection. This study aims to determine if there is an association between intraoperative regional cerebral oxygenation (ScO2) monitoring using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and the occurrence of early perioperative stroke within three days after cardiothoracic surgery.
Methods
We performed a single-center retrospective observational cohort study including all consecutive cardiothoracic surgery patients with routinely perioperative ScO2 monitoring admitted postoperatively to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) between 2008 and 2017. Patients with a confirmed stroke in the anterior cerebral circulation on brain imaging were included in the analysis. Intraoperative area under the curve (AUC), duration, and total ScO2 excursions below predefined thresholds (50% ScO2 or a reduction of 20% below baseline ScO2) were calculated for each hemisphere. Stroke-affected and non-affected hemispheres were compared using logistic regression analyses to evaluate if there is an association between ScO2 values and stroke.
Results
Of the 2454 cardiothoracic surgery patients with perioperative ScO2 monitoring, 39 had a anterior stroke on brain imaging. ScO2 readings of 44 affected hemispheres were compared to 34 non-affected hemispheres. The AUC ScO2 <50% or 20% from baseline (OR 0.99; 95%CI 0.97-1.01), duration (OR 0.99; 95%CI 0.98-1.00), and number (OR 0.99; 95%CI 0.79-1.23) of ScO2 excursions below predefined thresholds were not significantly different in affected hemispheres compared to non-affected hemispheres.
Conclusion
Low ScO2 levels during cardiothoracic surgery were not associated with the occurrence of an early perioperative stroke within three days after surgery.
Optimal intracorporeal anastomosis for colectomy: A comparative experimental evaluation through 3D anastomosis models
Authors: Fujii Yoshiaki , Yamamoto Seiya , Kimura Sho , Suzuki Shogo , Miyai Hirotaka , Takahashi Hiroki , Matsuo Yoichi , Kobayashi Kenji , Takiguchi Shuji
Published: July 2024

Intracorporeal anastomosis (IA) is gradually becoming widespread; however, there are no detailed reports on its configuration. The aim of this study was to create three-dimensional IA models and compare their configurations in detail. Three types of IA models were used: overlap anastomosis (OLA), delta-shaped anastomosis (DSA), and functional end-to-end anastomosis (FEEA). In experiment 1, three-dimensional images of each anastomosis model were created. Additionally, the length of each staple line comprising the anastomotic site was measured. In experiment 2, the length of intestinal mobilization required for anastomosis was compared. The circumference of the anastomosis in OLA (141.5 ± 3.3 mm) was significantly greater than those in DSA (87.9 ± 0.9 mm; p < 0.001) and FEEA (89.6 ± 10 mm; p < 0.0001). The length of the intestinal tract after the anastomosis in DSA (33 ± 6.9 mm) was significantly shorter than that in FEEA (76 ± 2 mm; p < 0.0001) and OLA (60 ± 5 mm; p < 0.002). In this study, we successfully constructed three-dimensional images of IA models. OLA may be the least likely cause of stricture, and DSA may contribute to minimizing bowel mobilization required for anastomosis.
Heart Language Model: Training and Fine-tuning Transformer-Based Foundation Models With Electrocardiogram Annotations
Authors: Gushev Marjan , Tudjarski Stojancho , Kanoulas Evangelos
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the potential of transformer-based foundation models to detect Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB) in electrocardiogram (ECG) processing, an arrhythmia specified as an irregular heart rhythm without patterns. We construct a language with tokens from heartbeat locations to detect irregular heart rhythms by applying a transformers-based neural network architecture previously used only for building natural language models. Specifically, our experiments include 41, 128, 256, and 512 tokens, representing parts of ECG recordings after tokenization. The method consists of training the foundation model with annotated benchmark databases, then fine-tuning on a much smaller dataset and evaluating different ECG datasets from those used in the fine-tuning. The best-performing model achieved an F1 score of 93,33 % to detect AFIB in an ECG segment composed of 41 heartbeats by evaluating different training and testing ECG benchmark datasets. The results showed that a foundation model trained with a large data corpus could be fine-tuned with a much smaller annotated dataset to detect and classify arrhythmia from ECGs. This work paves the way for the transformation of foundation models into invaluable cardiologist assistants soon, opening the possibility of training foundation models with even more data to achieve even better performance scores.
Multi-scale Recurrent Network for Video Defocus Deblurring
Authors: Chen Jing , Qiu Zhao , Yu Jiale
Published: July 2024

Video stands as the paramount medium for humans to perceive the world, and within this realm, video defocus deblurring (VDD) emerges as a distinct blurring phenomenon, distinct from both single image defocus deblurring (SIDD) and motion-induced video blurring. Despite its significance, VDD remains an underexplored territory in academic research. In this study, we introduce a novel neural network architecture, grounded in a multi-scale recurrent framework, tailored for VDD. This architecture meticulously propagates information features through a recurrent neural structure, employing a cascaded approach. With a view to minimize computational overhead, we incorporate prior feature fusion techniques within the latent space. Additionally, we introduce a novel metric to quantitatively evaluate the clarity of defocused blur. Our model emerges as the preeminent performer on the synthesized, customized Defocus Video dataset.
Evaluation of criterion-based audit in improving quality of neonatal birth asphyxia care at Balaka district hospital in Malawi
Authors: Mwalweni Chank , Chirwa Ellen Mbweza , Chimala Eveles Banda , Shaba Mirriam Window , Lowole Leone , Kasawala Lucia , Mwakhundi Christina Kalawa
Published: July 2024

Background
Birth asphyxia remains one of the leading causes of neonatal deaths worldwide with a higher incidence in resource limited countries such as Malawi. At Balaka district hospital, Birth asphyxia is the primary cause of neonatal mortality accounting for 37.3% of the district’s neonatal deaths. Although various quality improvement initiatives on birth asphyxia such as Helping Babies Breathe have been documented in Malawi, there is limited information on use of criterion based audit (CBA) to enhance the care of neonates with birth asphyxia. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of criterion-based audit in improving quality of neonatal birth asphyxia care at Balaka district hospital in Malawi.
Methods
A CBA on the care of babies born with birth asphyxia was conducted at Balaka district hospital in Malawi. The care practices were assessed through a retrospective review of 110 cases notes and compared with a locally established standards, by a multidisciplinary team, based on the Malawi guidelines on care of the infant and newborn and World Health Organization manuals. The gaps in current practice were identified, reasons discussed, and recommendations made and implemented. A re-audit was conducted on 110 case notes six months after the initial audit.
Results
The re-audit showed significant improvements in many of the set criteria for quality care: Checking of vital signs (80% vs. 98.2%; p = 0.000), appropriate investigations check (0.9% vs. 74%; p = 0.000), Thermal support (82.7% vs. 91.8%; p = 0.041), Correct diagnosis (60% vs. 81%; p = 0.001), Correct treatment (18.7% vs. 81%; p = 0.000), Correct Feeding (12.7% vs. 56.4%; p = 0.000), Clinicians’ ward rounds (0% vs. 72%; p = 0.000), and Daily weight check (49.1% vs. 93%; p = 0.000). Additionally, neonatal death decreased from 11% in initial audit to 5% in the re-audit.
Conclusion
CBA is a low-cost tool that can significantly improve the care of neonates with birth asphyxia in resource-limited countries.
Long-term combined “new sports” and resistance exercise improves the physical and mental health of elderly people with stroke-associated hemiplegia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun , Akimoto Takayuki , Chang Ji-Suk , Lee Ho-Seong
Published: July 2024

Background: Hemiplegia, a common consequence of stroke, significantly impacts daily life by causing muscle weakness, impaired balance, and reduced mobility, often leading to mental health issues such as depression. The combined new sports and resistance exercise program aims to enhance both physical fitness and social interaction. We hypothesized that the combined exercise program would improve the participants’ physical and mental health better than resistance exercise alone.
Methods: In this study, we examined the effects of 24 weeks of a combined new sports and resistance exercise program on the physical and mental health of elderly people with hemiplegia. Thirty elderly people aged 65–74 years with hemiplegia were randomly divided into combined new sports and resistance exercise (NS+RE), resistance exercise (RE), and control groups. Indicators of physical health (range of motion [ROM], Berg Balance Scale [BBS], Functional Gait Assessment, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living) and mental health (Grooved Pegboard Test [GPT], Geriatric Depression Scale [GDS], Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale [RSES], and Stroke-Specific Quality of Life [SS-QOL]) were measured before and at 8, 16, and 24 weeks of exercise training.
Results: Compared with the RE and control groups, the NS+RE group showed significant improvements in ROM, RSES, and SS-QOL starting at 8 weeks, GPT starting at 16 weeks, and BBS and GDS at 24 weeks.
Conclusions: We conclude that combined new sports and resistance exercise was more effective than resistance exercise alone in terms of improving the physical and mental health of elderly people with hemiplegia. Our findings highlight the importance of integrating new sports into rehabilitation strategies and sustaining long-term exercise for lasting benefits.
Trial registration: We retrospectively registered the study with the Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) of the Republic of Korea, an entity approved by the World Health Organization (registration number KCT0008524, registration date 15/06/2023).
Clustering Explanation based on Multi-Hyperrectangle
Authors: Zeng Tao , Zhong Caiming , Pan Tiejun
Published: July 2024

Clustering plays a crucial role in data mining and pattern recognition, but the interpretation of clustering results is often challenging. Existing interpretation methods usually lack an intuitive and accurate description of irregular shapes and high-dimensional data. This paper proposes a clustering explanation method based on a Multi-HyperRectangle (MHR), for extracting post hoc explanations of clustering results. MHR first generates initial hyperrectangles to cover a cluster, and then gradually merges these hyperrectangles to obtain the optimal shape that fits the cluster. Furthermore, we propose a refinement method to improve the tightness of the hyperrectangles to make the interpretation results more precise and easier to understand. Experimental results show that MHR has significant advantages in terms of tightness and accuracy of cluster interpretation.
On a partially degenerate West Nile virus model in closed advective environments
Authors: Xing Jie , Nie Hua , Wu Jianhua
Published: July 2024

To gain deeper insights into the impact of bird dispersal and advection on the spread of the West Nile virus, this study focuses on a partially degenerate reaction-diffusion model of the virus within closed advective environments with spatial heterogeneity. Initially, we define the basic reproduction number for this model and establish a threshold-type result based on it. Furthermore, we explore properties of the basic reproduction number concerning diffusion and advection rates by analyzing an eigenvalue problem involving weight and potential. The detailed dynamical classifications of such a model are delineated as the diffusion and advection rates vary. Theoretical and numerical results indicate that spatial heterogeneity, diffusion rate, advection rate and recovery rate of birds all significantly impact the survival or extinction of species.
2020MR Subject Classification: 35K55, 35B35, 92B05.
Analysis of ecological vulnerability and driving factors in the context of global climate change: A case study of Himalayan transboundary landscape
Authors: Zhu Kun , Zhu Yiwei , Zhao Zhenyu , Du Yuxiao , Wang Yu , Guo Xin , Fu Jin , Gao Jun
Published: July 2024

Under the dual influence of global climate change and human activities, the carrying capacity and buffering capacity of the Himalayan transboundary alpine ecosystem are being severely tested. This study focused on the transboundary nature reserves and national parks located in the Himalayas, which include Qomolangma National Nature Preserve, Manaslu Conservation Area, Langtang National Park, Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Sagarmatha National Park, Makalu Barun National Park and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Specifically, based on the analysis of land use changes and landscape pattern characteristics during 2000, 2010, and 2020, the main influencing factors of the landscape pattern changes were explored. Additionally, the Vulnerability Scoping Diagram (VSD) model was further utilized to construct the ecological vulnerability assessment system. The results indicated that: 1) The land use types in the study area have undergone changed, with notable changes observed in bare land and construction land. Glacier to bare land (512.00 km2), bare land to glacial or water area (127.49km2, 114.33 km2), shrub to construction land (72.91 km2), and water area to bare land (69.89 km2) were the main types of land transformation in this area. 2) The fragmentation level of ecological landscape types showed a trend of initial increase followed by decrease. The patch dominance of bare land was much higher than that of other land types, and the fragmentation degree was lower on the north slope than on the south slope. 3) From a temporal perspective, the regional ecological vulnerability was decreased. From a spatial perspective, the ecological vulnerability of the southern slope was generally lower than that of the northern slope, indicating a better ecological environment on the south slope. 4) The annual mean temperature, population density, and annual precipitation are the main factors affecting PD; annual precipitation, annual mean temperature, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) are the main factors affecting LPI; annual precipitation, NDVI, and slope are the main factors affecting LSI; annual precipitation and slope are the main factors affecting CONTAG; annual precipitation, NDVI, and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) are the main factors affecting SHEI. This study focused on the landscape pattern and ecological vulnerability around the world's highest peak, Mount Everest. Providing a typical sample for transboundary cooperation in ecological conservation areas in the Himalayan region and better promoting sustainable development in transboundary areas.
War, Researchers, and Anxiety: Evidence from Ukraine
Authors: Tsybuliak Natalia , Kolomiiets Uliana , Lopatina Hanna , Popova Anastasia , Suchikova Yana
Published: July 2024

The ongoing war in Ukraine has significantly impacted the mental health of academic researchers, with anxiety emerging as a predominant issue. This study assessed the prevalence and severity of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among Ukrainian researchers during conflict, considering factors such as gender, age, migration status, scientific degree, and job title. The findings revealed that 44.3% of participants experienced moderately severe to severe anxiety, with migration due to the full-scale war being a significant predictor of higher anxiety levels. Notably, male researchers exhibit higher anxiety levels than their female counterparts, contrary to typical peacetime trends, suggesting that wartime responsibilities and societal expectations may play a crucial role. The data underscore the need for targeted mental health support, particularly for displaced researchers, and highlight the importance of developing gender-specific interventions. These insights are vital for informing policies and support programs to enhance researchers' mental health and productivity in conflict zones, ensuring the continuity and quality of scientific research during and after the war.
Metadynamics and Free-Energy Landscape Approaches for Structural Characterization of Galectin-3
Authors: Ganguly Rik , Uversky Vladimir N. , Ingty Prosperwell , Ngoruh Angneh , Yadav Shashi Kumar , Roy Rajat , Bhattacharjee Atanu
Published: July 2024

The study addresses the three-dimensional structure and folding dynamics of Galectin-3 through the use of in-silico techniques like as DeepMind's AlphaFold, homology modelling, and ab-initio methods. The structural validation of the modelled structures highly supports the AlphaFold model. The N-terminal intrinsically disordered region a particular phenomenon frequently connected to the intrinsically disordered sections of proteins and its unexplored role in liquid-liquid phase separation are highlighted. The protein's metastable states were investigated using free energy landscaping, and the metastable state with the lowest global energy minima was the focus of in-depth dynamics studies. This gave researchers a thorough understanding of the structural flexibility of the Galectin-3 protein and the main factors influencing its coordinated movements. GoldScore and ChemScore are the best scoring functions, according to enrichment analysis, for determining candidate Galectin-3 carbohydrate-binding activity inhibitors. The FDA-approved compound ceftaroline shows high affinity and favourable interactions with the refined complete structure of Galectin-3, according to a newly introduced weighted scoring function that takes into account both GoldScore and ChemScore metrics. Ceftaroline was subjected to 100 ns molecular dynamic (MD) simulations, and the ceftaroline-Galectin-3 complex was found to be stable. This computational work sheds light on the structural dynamics of galectin-3 and lays the groundwork for upcoming experimental confirmations and medical advancements.
Trained Immunity Generated by the Recombinant Zoster Vaccine
Authors: Weinberg Adriana , Johnson Michael , Crotteau Megan , Ghosh Debashis , Vu Thao , Levin Myron J
Published: July 2024

Trained immunity may play a role in vaccine-induced protection against infections. We showed that the highly efficacious recombinant VZV-gE zoster vaccine (RZV) generated trained immunity in monocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, and dendritic cells (DCs) and that the less efficacious live zoster vaccine did not. RZV stimulated ex vivo gE-specific monocyte, DC and NK cell responses that did not correlate with CD4 + T-cell responses. These responses were also elicited in purified monocyte and NK cell cocultures stimulated with VZV-gE and persisted above prevaccination levels for ≥ 4 years post-RZV administration. RZV administration also increased ex vivo heterologous monocyte and NK cell responses to herpes simplex and cytomegalovirus antigens. ATAC-seq analysis and ex vivo TGFβ1 supplementation and inhibition experiments demonstrated that decreased tgfβ1 transcription resulting from RZV-induced chromatin modifications may explain the development of monocyte trained immunity. The role of RZV-trained immunity in protection against herpes zoster and other infections should be further studied.
Local Electrostatic Screening Enabled Ultrafast Bipolar Homojunction Photodiode Towards High Dynamic Range In-Sensor Image Processing
Authors: Li Chun , Wen Shaofeng , Zhou Shuren , Gong Yimin , Zhang Rui , Jia Xinyu , Kong Linkang , Fan Haodong , Yin Yi , Lan Changyong , Liu Yong
Published: July 2024

Capturing optical information while simultaneous in-sensor image processing shows great advantages on machine vision in terms of latency, energy efficiency and security. Particularly, high dynamic range (HDR) in-sensor imaging in challenging lighting conditions is crucial for open-world intelligent machine vision applications such as robotics, unmanned aerial vehicle and autonomous driving. The versatile photoresponse-turnabilities of two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors by electrostatic gating have shown promising pathway for the in-sensor visual processing. However, the limited linear dynamic range (LDR) of the photodetectors inhibits their implementation in HDR scenes. Here, we demonstrate that a single-gate-tunable bipolar photoresponse of tungsten diselenide (WSe2) in-plane homojunction constructed through a facile, efficient and universal local electrostatic screening strategy, can perceive and process HDR images simultaneously. The showcase van der Waals stacking of WSe2/PdSe2 in-plane homojunction photosensors leveraging band-alignment exhibits an excellent performance with an ultrafast response time of 8 ns and a large physical LDR up to 144 dB. This large physical LDR allows the capture of HDR images with high precision, while the gate-tunable bipolar photoresponse enables in-sensor image processing. Our results provide an effective strategy for constructing photodetectors with tunable positive/negative responses and high LDRs, which are promising for in-sensor visual processing of scenes with HDR.
Twenty-year co-evolutionary arms race between meerkat MHC and Tuberculosis
Authors: Mueller-Klein Nadine , Risely Alice , Wilhelm Kerstin , Riegel Vanessa , Manser Marta , Clutton-Brock Tim , Santos Pablo , Melville Dominik , Sommer Simone
Published: July 2024

Pathogen-mediated balancing selection shapes host ecology and evolution across the tree of life, fueling a co-evolutionary arms race based on frequency-dependent adaptations of hosts and counter-adaptations of pathogens. While rare immune genotypes are predicted to be more resistant to pathogens, evidence for this rare allele-advantage and negative frequency-dependent feedbacks has only been observed in model species or inferred from short-term field observations. Evidence from long-term data and wild populations is missing. Here, we leverage two decades of immune genetic and disease surveillance data from over 1,500 wild meerkats (Suricata suricatta) to reveal co-evolutionary dynamics between the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) and Mycobacterium suricattae, causing tuberculosis (TB). We uncover fluctuating adaptive MHC allelic, functional and haplotypic diversity over time compared with stable neutral genetic diversity. Crucially, we show that meerkats carrying the MHC allele Susu-DRB*13 faced initially higher TB infection probability, with the effect reversing over the course of the study, followed again by an increase in frequency of Susu-DRB*13. Similarly, TB progression first accelerated in meerkats carrying Susu-DRB*13, but decelerated thereafter. Susu-DRB*13 (and its supertype/haplotype) also prolonged survival in individuals with clinical TB. Our results present strong evidence that the rare allele-advantage propels negative frequency-dependent selection in a wild mammal. We discuss meerkats’ social structure as possible reasons for these comparably rapid co-evolutionary dynamics.
Climate outweighs human effects on vegetation properties during the early-to-mid Holocene
Authors: Felde Vivian A. , Mottl Ondřej , Flantua Suzette G. A. , Bhatta Kuber P. , Birks Hilary H. , Grytnes John-Arvid , Hooghiemstra Henry , Nogué Sandra , Reitalu Triin , Seddon Alistair W. R. , Steinbauer Manuel J. , Braak Cajo J. F. ter , Giesecke Thomas , Goring Simon J. , Haberle Simon G. , Herbert Annika V. , Šmilauer Petr , Tinner Willy , Williams John W. , Bird Darcy , Freeman Jacob , Gayo Eugenia , Hoggarth Julie A. , Latorre Claudio , Miranda Lux , Robinson Erick , Cao Xianyong , Chen Fahu , Birks H. John B.
Published: July 2024

Controversies exist regarding the extent of past human influence on terrestrial ecosystems and the relative importance of human versus climatic factors in shaping Holocene vegetation. However, there has been no systematic examination of these issues at a global scale.
Here we integrate palaeoecological, archaeological, and palaeoclimate data to assess the influence of humans and climate in driving patterns of past vegetation during the early and middle Holocene (8500 - 2000 years before present) as recorded by pollen-assemblage properties. We quantify and summarise the patterns of change in different properties from individual records to a global scale and assess the relative importance of humans and/or climate in influencing them. Additionally, we assess whether the internal relationships among these properties changed through time.
While we find evidence that humans have high localized impact on vegetation dynamics in various regions and times periods, when considered globally, humans appear to be a secondary factor, during the early-to-mid Holocene. Our results underscore the value of merging multidisciplinary palaeodata to provide a holistic understanding of millennia-spanning relationships between humans, climate, and vegetation across different spatial scales.
Examining women's persistence in STEM: A mixed methods study of autonomy, competence, relatedness, and sociocultural influences on women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
Authors: Saigo Heather
Published: July 2024

This study’s purpose was to understand how women persist in STEM through the lens of self-determination theory, which posits that persistence improves when basic psychological needs are satisfied. The researcher recruited 641 women with 6+ years of STEM experience for an anonymous online survey. The instrument included the 24-item Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale and several open-ended questions. Statistical analyses showed high satisfaction and low frustration levels for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Significant associations were found between persistence, combined satisfaction, competence satisfaction, and other variables. Qualitative analyses identified 17 satisfaction themes, 10 frustration themes, and six sociocultural themes in participants’ responses. Four conclusions were reached: First, women in the study were highly satisfied overall; second, they persisted despite negative experiences with discrimination and bias. Third, organizations must support autonomy, competence, relatedness, and equity to promote persistence. Fourth, there are career points where attrition risk is higher. Recommendations include programs to promote women’s interest, self-efficacy, and belonging in STEM.
Deep Magnitude Management of Clinical Code Embeddings to Predict Unplanned Hospital Readmissions
Authors: Bignoumba Nzamba , Bertl Markus , Mellouli Nedra , Yahia Sadok Ben
Published: July 2024

The rate of unplanned hospital readmissions is a relevant indicator of the quality of care provided. From a financial point of view, unplanned readmissions are costly for patients and healthcare providers. Awareness of unplanned readmissions helps to mitigate the growth of healthcare costs. Several predictive models have been proposed to reduce unplanned hospital readmissions. However, most research on the topic does not consider the time elapsed between visits, when historical medical events are included in said research. Additionally, the focus on frequent medical events such as chronic illnesses that may lead to unplanned readmission is not explicitly captured in these models. The failure to consider elapsed time between visits and frequent or chronic illnesses can lead to a decline in the model's performance. We then introduce a model called 'Deep Magnitude Management' (D2M) that incorporates the above-mentioned aspects. D2M handles sequences of visits according to their corresponding date and incorporates an explicit transfer mechanism that enables it to focus on frequent medical events. To provide effective evidence, we compare the performance of D2M with the state-of-the-art models and conduct various ablation studies using the MIMIC-3 database. Furthermore, we provide a series of charts explaining the results of the predictions.
Effective management of white rust disease in red amaranth: a field study in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmmed Abu Noman Faruq , Islam MD. Zahidul , Ferdous Raihan
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to identify the causal organism, Albugo candida, responsible for white rust disease in red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.), and to evaluate effective management strategies for seed production during the Rabi and Kharif seasons of 2018-19 in Bangladesh. Eight treatments, including chemical, botanical, and biopesticide treatments such as Ridomil Gold 68 WG, Autostin 50 WP, Dithane M 45, Goldton 50 WP, the Bordeaux mixture, G-Derma, Garlic bulb extract, and Allamanda leaf extract, were evaluated. Four foliar sprays were applied at seven-day intervals after disease symptom onset. The field experiments followed a randomized complete block design with three replications. A microscopic study confirmed that Albugo candida was the causal organism. In both seasons, Ridomil Gold demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing disease incidence in plants, disease incidence in leaves, and disease severity, which were 63.07%, 62.78.5, and 84.31%, respectively, in Rabi and 69.73%, 65.71%, and 88.41%, respectively, in the Kharif season. Allamanda leaf extract also had statistically similar results, while Autostin exhibited promising effectiveness. Furthermore, compared with the other treatments, the combination of Ridomil Gold and Allamanda leaf extract significantly enhanced the growth parameters and seed yield in both seasons. Assessing the collective effectiveness of the treatments, Ridomil Gold demonstrated the most efficient control of white rust disease. Consequently, Ridomil Gold holds promise for application in red amaranth seed production. Additionally, the use of Allamanda leaf extract is an environmentally friendly approach to white rust disease management and promotes safer crop production practices. These discoveries offer significant guidance to practitioners seeking optimal disease management strategies in red amaranth farming.
“Un Amigo Secreto”: Perceived acceptability of a chatbot for depression education, self-help and linkage to care among adolescents living with HIV in Peru
Authors: Rupani Neil , Vasquez Diego H. , Contreras Carmen , Menacho Luis , Tapia Milagros , Kolevic Lenka , Franke Molly F. , Galea Jerome T.
Published: July 2024

Adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) in Peru face significant mental health challenges, including a high prevalence of low-to-moderate depression, exacerbated by limited access to mental health resources. This study explores the perceived acceptability of a chatbot to support depression education, self-help, and linkage to care among ALWH. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with 28 adolescents, 5 caregivers, and 5 HIV care personnel. A semi-structured interview guide with open-ended questions was used to assess seven core chatbot acceptability domains: affective attitude, ethics, burden, intervention coherence, opportunity costs, perceived effectiveness, and self-efficacy. Across a diverse sample based on sex, gender, sexuality and age, most participants expressed positive attitudes towards a mental health chatbot, highlighting its potential to provide a non-threatening and accessible source of information and support. Participants appreciated a chatbot’s potential to offer immediate responses and facilitate a safe space for ALWH to communicate their needs in moments of isolation. Participants understood the three main purposes of the chatbot and had confidence in their abilities to successfully use a mental health chatbot. However, concerns were raised regarding a chatbot's inability to provide human empathy and potential privacy issues related to data security. Despite some reservations, participants generally believed that a chatbot could effectively deliver educational content, promote self-help strategies, and serve as a bridge to professional care. These findings highlight the perceived acceptability of a chatbot as a mental health intervention for Peruvian ALWH.