bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crustal structure and deformation mechanism of the western northeast Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Zining , Xiong Xiaosong , Wu Guowei , Li Zhichao , Ye Zhuo , Jin Zhongyuan
Published: October 2023

The collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates continues to drive significant deformation and uplift within the interior of the Tibetan Plateau, together with its outward expansion along the margins. In particular, the North Qilian Shan fold-thrust belt (NQLS) and the Hexi Corridor basins (HXBS) represent the northernmost region of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. This area serves as a natural laboratory for deciphering mechanisms of crustal deformation and thickening along the plateau’s margins. Specifically, the northeastern Tibetan Plateau has been attributed to 1) southward underthrusting of the Asian lithosphere, 2) distributed shortening and crustal thickening, 3) vertical inflation of the Tibetan crust due to mid-lower crustal channel flow, and 4) intracontinental subduction facilitated by large-scale strike–slip faults. The exact mechanism underlying the most concentrated convergent stress in the western segment of NQLS–HXBS remains a subject of debate. To address this uncertainty, we gathered seismic data along a 130-km-long linear array that extends northward from NQLS, traversing the Jiuquan Basin and reaching the Huahai Basin. Our analysis, conducted through the receiver function method, reveals intriguing findings. The Moho depth deepens from 45–50 km beneath the Huahai Basin to 55–60 km beneath NQLS. Notably, a double Moho structure emerged, marked by a distinctive near-flat positive amplitude at a depth of 45–50 km beneath NQLS within a distance of 0–50 km. Our study presents a comprehensive analysis of the crust-scale deformation mechanism, shedding light on the following key aspects: 1) the development of a decollement at 12–20 km depth decoupling the upper and lower crust; 2) deformation of the upper crust occurring through south-dipping brittle thrust faults, while the lower crust features imbricate structures and duplexes; 3) evidence pointing to the underthrusting of the Beishan Block beneath NQLS, indicated by the double Moho beneath NQLS; and 4) the formation of a Moho ramp beneath the Jiuquan Basin, facilitating the transfer of shortening stress from beneath NQLS and HXBS to the north. In the context of the western segment of NQLS and HXBS, our speculation is that coupled distributed shortening and Beishan Block subduction beneath NQLS work in tandem to accommodate crustal deformation.
Elderly rats fed with a high-fat high-sucrose diet developed sex-dependent metabolic syndrome regardless of long-term metformin and liraglutide treatment
Authors: Ivić Vedrana , Zjalić Milorad , Blažetić Senka , Fenrich Matija , Labak Irena , Scitovski Rudolf , Szűcs Kálmán Ferenc , Ducza Eszter , Tábi Tamás , Bagamery Fruzsina , Szökő Éva , Vuković Rosemary , Rončević Alen , Mandić Dario , Debeljak Željko , Berecki Monika , Balog Marta , Seres-Bokor Adrienn , Sztojkov-Ivanov Anita , Hajagos-Tóth Judit , Gajović Srećko , Imširović Alen , Bakula Marina , Mahiiovych Solomiia , Gaspar Robert , Vari Sandor G. , Heffer Marija
Published: October 2023

Aim/Introduction

The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of early antidiabetic therapy in reversing metabolic changes caused by high-fat and high-sucrose diet (HFHSD) in both sexes.

Methods

Elderly Sprague–Dawley rats, 45 weeks old, were randomized into four groups: a control group fed on the standard diet (STD), one group fed the HFHSD, and two groups fed the HFHSD along with long-term treatment of either metformin (HFHSD+M) or liraglutide (HFHSD+L). Antidiabetic treatment started 5 weeks after the introduction of the diet and lasted 13 weeks until the animals were 64 weeks old.

Results

Unexpectedly, HFHSD-fed animals did not gain weight but underwent significant metabolic changes. Both antidiabetic treatments produced sex-specific effects, but neither prevented the onset of prediabetes nor diabetes.

Conclusion

Liraglutide vested benefits to liver and skeletal muscle tissue in males but induced signs of insulin resistance in females.
The effects of 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy on the local immune response of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2
Authors: Wu Anyue , Niu Jing , Hong Zubei , Gu Liying , Huang Yuli , Qiu Lihua
Published: October 2023

Objective

To evaluate and elucidate the effects and mechanism of 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) on the local immune response of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2).

Materials and methods

Immunofluorescence staining was used to compare immune cells infiltration before and after ALA-PDT in 23 patients with CIN2. The infiltration of immune cells into the cervical tissues of patients with different outcomes was also compared at the 6-month follow-up period. Immune cell counts in samples collected before and after treatment were compared.

Results

We found an increased number of CD8+ T cell infiltration, an increased proportion of CD8+ T cells expressing Granzyme B (GrB), Chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3), and CD8+ tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells, and a decreased proportion of CD8+ T cells expressing PD-1 in patients with CIN2 compared to that before ALA-PDT. Moreover, at the 6-month follow-up, there was higher infiltration of CD8+ T and CD8+ TRM cells, higher expression of GrB and CXCR3, and lower expression of PD-1 on CD8+ T cells in the HPV clearance and CIN2 disappearance groups than in the HPV-positive and CIN2 regression groups. However, no significant difference was observed in the number of CD8+ TSCM following ALA-PDT.

Conclusion

ALA-PDT could activate CD8+ T cell responses by modulating the expression of CXCR3 and PD-1 in CD8+ T cells and increasing the infiltration of CD8+ TRM cells. And the infiltration of CD8+ T cells is correlated with the prognosis of CIN2.
Impacts of glacial and sea-ice meltwater, primary production, and ocean CO2 uptake on ocean acidification state of waters by the 79 North Glacier and northeast Greenland shelf
Authors: Fransson Agneta , Chierici Melissa , Granskog Mats A. , Dodd Paul A. , Stedmon Colin A.
Published: October 2023

The waters adjacent to the Nioghalvfjerdsbræ (79 North Glacier, 79NG) are influenced by Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) melt, sea-ice meltwater, and waters on the adjacent northeast Greenland shelf (NEGS). We investigated ocean acidification (OA) variables and the role of freshening, primary production, and air-sea CO2 exchange in Dijmphna Sound (DS) and on the NEGS in the summers of 2012 and 2016. The upper 150 m consisted of Polar Water with Arctic origin that was divided into a fresh surface layer (SL<50 m) and a cold halocline layer (CHL, 50 to 150 m). The layer below 150 m was of Atlantic origin. The SL freshwater was larger in 2012 than in 2016, mainly originated from local 79NG (and GrIS) runoff in DS, whereas on the NEGS in both years, it was mainly from sea-ice melt. The lowest aragonite saturation state (ΩAr) of 1.13 was found in the SL in 2012. Biological CO2 drawdown at primary production caused increased ΩAr in SL, which compensated for most of the ΩAr decrease due to the freshwater dilution of carbonate ions reducing total alkalinity, hence preventing corrosive conditions. This was most pronounced near the 79NG front in 2012, where surface stratification was most pronounced coinciding with large glacial meltwater fractions. Freshening decreased ΩAr by 0.4 at the 79NG front was compensated by biological CO2 drawdown by ~0.5. In 2016, a well-mixed water column in DS and NEGS, with dilution by sea-ice meltwater, caused less compensation on ΩAr by biological CO2 drawdown than in 2012. In future with changing climate and changing ocean chemistry, the increased meltwater effects may overcome the alleviating effects of biological CO2 drawdown on OA with unfavorable conditions for calcifying organisms. However, our study also suggests that primary production may be stimulated by stratification from surface meltwater. In addition, Atlantification and subglacial discharge may result in upwelling of inorganic nutrients that could promote primary production.
From fisher tales to scientific evidence: revealing the significance of estuarine and mangrove habitats as nursery grounds for juveniles of the largest Atlantic Ocean snapper
Authors: da Silva Fábio Renan Miranda , Noleto Filho Eurico Mesquita , Gallina Maria Luiza , Keppeler Friedrich Wolfgang , Loiola Miguel , Giarrizzo Tommaso , Reis-Filho José Amorim
Published: October 2023

The knowledge held by local and indigenous communities has been recognized as an invaluable yet underused resource for understanding how the environment, local conditions, and fish populations change over time. Empirical information on population sizes, ecology, and threats to fish species and their habitats can be complemented with local knowledge to better guide management and conservation efforts, particularly for understudied species. Here, we investigated the habitat preferences, population status, fishing, sightings patterns, threats, and habitat characteristics of juveniles of the cubera snapper, the largest snapper in the Atlantic Ocean. We used a combination of empirical evidence from underwater surveys by using small-action cameras and an ethnological perspective based on fishers’ perceptions who are cubera-snapper fishing specialists to have a comprehensive understanding of the species and habitat use during its early life stages. A range of estuarine habitats was examined over a year to assess the association between cubera snapper juveniles and different estuarine characteristics and conservation scenarios. Both sources of data indicated that cubera snapper juveniles heavily rely on mangrove habitats, exhibiting a clear temporal pattern of residence within these habitats. However, the probability of occurrence varied based on the level of coastal development in each estuarine system. Estuaries with small drainage areas, directly connected to the ocean, and presenting larger mangrove areas accounted for the highest abundances of juveniles. Factors such as mangrove removal, overfishing, and water pollution significantly reduced the occurrence and reliance of cubera snapper juveniles in the studied estuaries. The study represents the first attempt to shed light on the ecological aspects of cubera snapper juveniles, addressing a gap in their life cycle. It underscores the importance of integrating complementary sources of evidence to understand the relationships between the crucial life stage of cubera snappers, their habitats, and the threats they face. The ecological and ethnographic knowledge gained from this research should be incorporated into biomonitoring and conservation policy to effectively preserve this vulnerable top predator.
Climate-specific health literacy in health professionals: an exploratory study
Authors: Albrecht Lorenz , Reismann Lydia , Leitzmann Michael , Bernardi Christine , von Sommoggy Julia , Weber Andrea , Jochem Carmen
Published: October 2023

Background

Health professionals such as physicians and nurses may play an important role in the transformation process towards a healthy, sustainable and climate-sensitive society. However, little is known about their climate-specific health literacy. This study aimed to assess knowledge regarding climate change and its impacts on health and climate-specific health literacy in health professionals.

Methods

In July/August 2022, a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was carried out at the University Hospital Regensburg, Germany, to assess climate-specific health literacy in nurses and physicians from various clinical specialties. Descriptive and exploratory statistical analyses were performed.

Results

The study population consisted of 142 participants (57.7% women; response rate: 24,7%). Most participants (93%) considered climate change to be highly relevant. However, only 12% of respondents stated to be very well informed regarding the general consequences of climate change. Although 57% of all participants had never mentioned climate change in relation to health to their patients, participants with higher levels of knowledge regarding the effects of climate change were more likely to mention it compared to those with lower levels of knowledge. The most frequently stated obstacle to integrate the topic of climate change in clinical work was lack of time during work (79%), not enough information (42%) and lacking materials (39%). Differences between health professions were apparent.

Conclusion

The results of our survey suggest that the current state of climate-specific health literacy differs between different groups of health professionals. There is a need to improve health professionals’ levels of climate-specific health literacy and to increase the potential in interprofessional cooperation regarding planetary health.
Anaerobic fluorescent reporters for live imaging of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Tchagang Caetanie F. , Mah Thien-Fah , Campbell-Valois François-Xavier
Published: October 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa thrives in the airways of individuals with cystic fibrosis, in part by forming robust biofilms that are resistant to immune clearance or antibiotic treatment. In the cystic fibrosis lung, the thickened mucus layers create an oxygen gradient, often culminating with the formation of anoxic pockets. In this environment, P. aeruginosa can use nitrate instead of oxygen to grow. Current fluorescent reporters for studying P. aeruginosa are limited to the GFP and related analogs. However, these reporters require oxygen for the maturation of their chromophore, making them unsuitable for the study of anaerobically grown P. aeruginosa. To overcome this limitation, we evaluated seven alternative fluorescent proteins, including iLOV, phiLOV2.1, evoglow-Bs2, LucY, UnaG, Fluorescence-Activating and Absorption-Shifting Tag (FAST), and iRFP670, which have been reported to emit light under oxygen-limiting conditions. We generated a series of plasmids encoding these proteins and validated their fluorescence using plate reader assays and confocal microscopy. Six of these proteins successfully labeled P. aeruginosa in anoxia. In particular, phiLOV2.1 and FAST provided superior fluorescence stability and enabled dual-color imaging of both planktonic and biofilm cultures. This study provides a set of fluorescent reporters for monitoring P. aeruginosa under low-oxygen conditions. These reporters will facilitate studies of P. aeruginosa in biofilms or other contexts relevant to its pathogenesis, such as those found in cystic fibrosis airways. Due to the broad host range of our expression vector, the phiLOV2.1 and FAST-based reporters may be applicable to the study of other Gram-negative bacteria that inhabit similar low-oxygen niches.
Modelling decision-making biases
Authors: Cerracchio Ettore , Miletić Steven , Forstmann Birte U.
Published: October 2023

Biases are a fundamental aspect of everyday life decision-making. A variety of modelling approaches have been suggested to capture decision-making biases. Statistical models are a means to describe the data, but the results are usually interpreted according to a verbal theory. This can lead to an ambiguous interpretation of the data. Mathematical cognitive models of decision-making outline the structure of the decision process with formal assumptions, providing advantages in terms of prediction, simulation, and interpretability compared to statistical models. We compare studies that used both signal detection theory and evidence accumulation models as models of decision-making biases, concluding that the latter provides a more comprehensive account of the decision-making phenomena by including response time behavior. We conclude by reviewing recent studies investigating attention and expectation biases with evidence accumulation models. Previous findings, reporting an exclusive influence of attention on the speed of evidence accumulation and prior probability on starting point, are challenged by novel results suggesting an additional effect of attention on non-decision time and prior probability on drift rate.
Optimized high-definition tDCS in patients with skull defects and skull plates
Authors: Guillen Alexander , Truong Dennis Q. , Datta Abhishek , Huang Yu
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to benefit patients with brain lesions or traumatic brain injury (TBI). These patients usually have skull defects with different sizes and electrical conductivities. There is very little data in the literature that show how to optimally stimulate these patients with the presence of skull defects.

Methods

Here we leveraged high-resolution (1 mm) realistic head models to explore the best montages targeting right beneath the skull defects with different sizes and conductivities. Specifically, open-source software ROAST was used to solve for the lead field on the publicly available MIDA model. Four different skull defects/plates were modeled with the center above the right primary motor cortex: a larger defect (10 cm diameter) modeled as either titanium or acrylic plate, and a smaller defect (2.5 cm diameter) modeled as either acute state filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or chronic state with scar tissue. Optimized stimulation with maximal intensity was run using ROAST targeting the right primary motor cortex.

Results

We show that optimized high-definition montages can achieve an average of 0.3 V/m higher stimulation intensities at the target compared to un-optimized montages (M1-SO or 4×1). Large skull defects with titanium or acrylic plates significantly reduce the stimulation intensity by about 80%, while small defects with acute (CSF) or chronic (scar) tissues significantly increase the stimulation intensity by about 200%. Furthermore, one can use M1-SO to achieve almost the same stimulation strength as the optimized montage if the skull has a large defect with titanium plate, and there is no significant difference in stimulation intensity between 4×1 montage and the optimized montage for small skull defects with scar tissue.

Discussion

Based on this work, future modeling studies leveraging individual anatomy of skull defects may help guide tDCS practice on patients with skull defects and skull plates.
Modulating mitochondrial calcium channels (TRPM2/MCU/NCX) as a therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Johnson Gretchen A. , Krishnamoorthy Raghu R. , Stankowska Dorota L.
Published: October 2023

Efficient cellular communication is essential for the brain to regulate diverse functions like muscle contractions, memory formation and recall, decision-making, and task execution. This communication is facilitated by rapid signaling through electrical and chemical messengers, including voltage-gated ion channels and neurotransmitters. These messengers elicit broad responses by propagating action potentials and mediating synaptic transmission. Calcium influx and efflux are essential for releasing neurotransmitters and regulating synaptic transmission. Mitochondria, which are involved in oxidative phosphorylation, and the energy generation process, also interact with the endoplasmic reticulum to store and regulate cytoplasmic calcium levels. The number, morphology, and distribution of mitochondria in different cell types vary based on energy demands. Mitochondrial damage can cause excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Mitophagy is a selective process that targets and degrades damaged mitochondria via autophagosome-lysosome fusion. Defects in mitophagy can lead to a buildup of ROS and cell death. Numerous studies have attempted to characterize the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and calcium dysregulation in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinocerebellar ataxia, and aging. Interventional strategies to reduce mitochondrial damage and accumulation could serve as a therapeutic target, but further research is needed to unravel this potential. This review offers an overview of calcium signaling related to mitochondria in various neuronal cells. It critically examines recent findings, exploring the potential roles that mitochondrial dysfunction might play in multiple neurodegenerative diseases and aging. Furthermore, the review identifies existing gaps in knowledge to guide the direction of future research.
Guanylate cyclase-C Signaling Axis as a theragnostic target in colorectal cancer: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Piroozkhah Moein , Aghajani Ali , Jalali Pooya , Shahmoradi Arvin , Piroozkhah Mobin , Tadlili Younes , Salehi Zahra
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Recent research has highlighted the crucial role of the guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) signaling axis in CRC, from the early stages of tumorigenesis to disease progression. GC-C is activated by endogenous peptides guanylin (GU) and uroguanylin (UG), which are critical in maintaining intestinal fluid homeostasis. However, it has been found that these peptides may also contribute to the development of CRC. This systematic review focuses on the latest research on the GC-C signaling axis in CRC.

Methods

According to the aim of the study, a systematic literature search was conducted on Medline and PubMed databases. Ultimately, a total of 40 articles were gathered for the systematic review.

Results

Our systematic literature search revealed that alterations in GC-C signaling compartments in CRC tissue have demonstrated potential as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic markers. This research highlights a potential treatment for CRC by targeting the GC-C signaling axis. Promising results from recent studies have explored the use of this signaling axis to develop new vaccines and chimeric antigen receptors that may be used in future clinical trials.

Conclusion

The findings presented in this review provide compelling evidence that targeting the GC-C signaling axis may be an advantageous approach for treating CRC.
Chemical composition, biological activities, and quality standards of hawthorn leaves used in traditional Chinese medicine: a comprehensive review
Authors: Guo Wenjing , Shao Tingting , Peng Yu , Wang Haitao , Chen Zhe-Sheng , Su Haixiang
Published: October 2023

Hawthorn leaves also known as crataegi foilum, are a combination of botanical drugs used commonly in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Hawthorn, the plant from which hawthorn leaves are prepared, is distributed in Northeast China, North China, and other regions in China. Hawthorn leaves are known to activate blood circulation and eliminate stasis, invigorating Qi, eliminating turbidity, and reducing the levels of lipids. So far, over a hundred compounds have been isolated from hawthorn leaves, including flavonoids, terpenoids, lignans, organic acids, and nitrogenous compounds. Hawthorn leaves are used for the treatment of hypertension, protecting against ischemic injury, angina, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and certain other conditions. Several of the currently available clinical preparations also use hawthorn leaves as raw materials, such as Yixintong capsules, Xinan capsules, etc. The present report systematically reviews the chemical composition, biological activities, and quality standards of hawthorn leaves, to provide a scientific basis and reference for detailed research on hawthorn leaves.
A Swin transformer and MLP based method for identifying cherry ripeness and decay
Authors: Song Ke , Yang Jiwen , Wang Guohui
Published: October 2023

Cherries are a nutritionally beneficial and economically significant crop, with fruit ripeness and decay (rot or rupture) being critical indicators in the cherry sorting process. Therefore, accurately identifying the maturity and decay of cherries is crucial in cherry processing. With advancements in artificial intelligence technology, many studies have utilized photographs for non-destructive detection of fruit appearance quality. This paper proposes a cherry appearance quality identification method based on the Swin Transformer, which utilizes the Swin Transformer to extract cherry image feature information and then imports the feature information into classifiers such as multi-layer perceptron(MLP) and support vector machine(SVM) for classification. Through the comparison of multiple classifiers, the optimal classifier, namely, MLP, in combination with the Swin Transformer is obtained. Furthermore, performance comparisons are conducted with the original Swin-T method, traditional CNN models, and traditional CNN models combined with MLP. The results demonstrate the following: 1) The proposed method based on the Swin Transformer and MLP achieves an accuracy rate of 98.5%, which is 2.1% higher than the original Swin-T model and 1.0% higher than the best-performing combination of traditional CNN model and MLP. 2) The training time required for the Swin Transformer and MLP is only 78.43 s, significantly faster than other models. The experimental results indicate that the innovative approach of combining the Swin Transformer and MLP shows excellent performance in identifying cherry ripeness and decay. The successful application of this method provides a new solution for determining cherry appearance ripeness and decay. Therefore, this method plays a significant role in promoting the development of cherry sorting machines.
Utility of HR-pQCT in detecting training-induced changes in healthy adult bone morphology and microstructure
Authors: Sekel Nicole M. , Hughes Julie M. , Sterczala Adam J. , Mroz Kelly H. , Lovalekar Mita , Cauley Jane , Greeves Julie P. , Nindl Bradley C.
Published: October 2023

Healthy bone adjusts its traits in an exceptionally coordinated, compensatory process. Recent advancements in skeletal imaging via High-Resolution Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography (HR-pQCT) allows for the in vivo 3-dimensional and longitudinal quantification of bone density, microarchitecture, geometry, and parameters of mechanical strength in response to varying strain stimuli including those resulting from exercise or military training. Further, the voxel size of 61 microns has the potential to capture subtle changes in human bone in as little as 8 weeks. Given the typical time course of bone remodeling, short-term detection of skeletal changes in bone microstructure and morphology is indicative of adaptive bone formation, the deposition of new bone formation, uncoupled from prior resorption, that can occur at mechanistically advantageous regions. This review aims to synthesize existing training-induced HR-pQCT data in three distinct populations of healthy adults excluding disease states, pharmacological intervention and nutritional supplementation. Those included are: 1) military basic or officer training 2) general population and 3) non-osteoporotic aging. This review aims to further identify similarities and contrasts with prior modalities and cumulatively interpret results within the scope of bone functional adaptation.
Fine-tuning CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) using a hairy root transformation system and in silico prediction models
Authors: de Koning Ramon , Daryanavard Hana , Garmyn Joyce , Kiekens Raphaël , Toili Mary Esther Muyoka , Angenon Geert
Published: October 2023

The stable transformation of common bean is a challenging and time-consuming process. Although CRISPR/Cas9 has revolutionized gene editing with its high efficiency and specificity, the performance of the system can be affected by multiple factors, such as sgRNA specificity and effectiveness, and the choice of promoter used to drive Cas9 expression. The use of a hairy root transformation system to initially check the efficiency of sgRNAs and the impact of different promoters could speed up this process and increase the chances of success. We initially tested three different transformation methods to induce hairy roots and selected a preferred method suitable for a variety of different common bean genotypes. This method involved inoculating a severed radicle with Rhizobium rhizogenes K599 and was fast, had a high transformation frequency of 42-48%, and resulted in numerous hairy roots. This method was further used for the transformation of explants using R. rhizogenes harboring different CRISPR/Cas9 constructs and evaluated the on-target activity of sgRNAs targeting raffinose family oligosaccharides biosynthetic genes and the impact of different promoters driving Cas9 on the gene editing efficiency. Additionally, we evaluated the reliability of the in silico tools, CRISPOR, CRISPR RGEN, and inDelphi to predict the sgRNA efficiencies and resulting mutations. Our results showed that the hairy root transformation system allows for rapid evaluation of multiple sgRNAs and promoters. We also identified several highly efficient sgRNAs that induced frameshift mutations at rates of up to 70% when a parsley ubiquitin promoter was driving Cas9 expression, providing valuable information for the selection of the most effective sgRNAs and promoters for future transformation experiments. Although most of the computational models used to predict the sgRNA efficiency did not match the in planta results, the Lindel model proved to be the most reliable for P. vulgaris, accurately predicting the sgRNA efficiency and the type of induced mutation in most hairy roots. Furthermore, the inDelphi algorithm could correctly predict deletions and single nucleotide insertions resulting from DNA double-strand breaks in common bean. These results offer promising implications for enhancing precise editing in plants because they provide the possibility of predicting repair outcomes.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi enhance active ingredients of medicinal plants: a quantitative analysis
Authors: Yuan Ming-Li , Zhang Meng-Han , Shi Zhao-Yong , Yang Shuang , Zhang Meng-Ge , Wang Zhen , Wu Shan-Wei , Gao Jia-Kai
Published: October 2023

Medicinal plants are invaluable resources for mankind and play a crucial role in combating diseases. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are widely recognized for enhancing the production of medicinal active ingredients in medicinal plants. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the quantitative effects of AMF on the accumulation of medicinal active ingredients. Here we conducted a comprehensive global analysis using 233 paired observations to investigate the impact of AMF inoculation on the accumulation of medicinal active ingredients. This study revealed that AMF inoculation significantly increased the contents of medicinal active ingredients by 27%, with a particularly notable enhancement observed in flavonoids (68%) and terpenoids (53%). Furthermore, the response of medicinal active ingredients in belowground organs (32%) to AMF was more pronounced than that in aboveground organs (18%). Notably, the AMF genus Rhizophagus exhibited the strongest effect in improving the contents of medicinal active ingredients, resulting in an increase of over 50% in both aboveground and belowground organs. Additionally, the promotion of medicinal active ingredients by AMF was attributed to improvements in physiological factors, such as chlorophyll, stomatal conductance and net photosynthetic rate. Collectively, this research substantially advanced our comprehension of the pivotal role of AMF in improving the medicinal active ingredients of plants and provided valuable insights into the potential mechanisms driving these enhancements.
Association of non-HDL-C and depression: a cross-sectional analysis of the NHANES data
Authors: Zhu Xianlin , Zhao Yiwen , Li Lu , Liu Jiaoying , Huang Qiankun , Wang Suhong , Shu Yanping
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) has attracted attention because it is associated with a variety of diseases and is easy to measure. However, the relationship between non-HDL-C and depression is still unclear. Our aim was to assess the relationship between non-HDL-C and depression using the cross-sectional NHANES survey from 2005 to 2018.

Methods

We examined the association between non-HDL-C and depression using weighted multivariable logistic regression models and subgroup analysis. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated the robustness of the results.

Results

There were 42,143 participants in this study and 8.6% had depression (weighted 7.53%). Non-HDL-C was higher in participants with depression compared to those without depression (weighted mean 3.64 vs. 3.73, p < 0.01). There was a positive association between non-HDL-C and depression with a 95% OR of 1.22 adjusted for multifactorial (95% CI,1.03–1.45). In subgroup analyses, non-HDL-C was positively associated with depression in men (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.01–1.70), normal BMI (OR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.66–1.32) and in participants without hypertension (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.01–1.66).

Conclusion

Non-HDL-C positively correlated with depression, and further research may be better for clinical service.
The global burden of traumatic amputation in 204 countries and territories
Authors: Yuan Bei , Hu Dong , Gu Suxi , Xiao Songhua , Song Fei
Published: October 2023

Background

Traumatic amputation leads to disability and imposes a heavy health burden. This study aims to explore the current status and temporal trends of the global burden of traumatic amputation according to sex, age, amputation site, cause, and reginal level of social development.

Methods

The data were extracted from the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD) Study 2019. Prevalence, incidence, years lived with disability (YLDs) and corresponding age-standardized rate were compared. Estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was applied to reflect trends in age-standardized rates over a specific period. Spearman rank test and curve fitting methods were used to analyze the relationship between disease burden and Socio-Demographic Index (SDI).

Results

Globally, the incidence and prevalence number of traumatic amputation increased from 11.37 million and 370.25 million in 1990, to 13.23 million and 552.45 million in 2019, with a raise of 16.4 and 49.2%, respectively. But the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) (EAPC = −0.56; 95%CI, −0.72 to −0.41) and age-standardize prevalence rate (ASPR) (EAPC = −0.63; 95%CI, −0.74 to −0.52) declined during this period. The YLDs count also increased by 39.2% globally (from 5.28 million to 7.35 million), while the age-standardize YLDs rate (ASYR) decreased by an average of 1.00% per year (95% CI, −1.10 to −0.90) from 1990 to 2019. The incidence, prevalence, and YLDs rate of traumatic amputation continue to increase with age. Traumatic amputations were most common in the fingers, while unilateral lower limb amputation caused the greatest burden of disability. ASIR and SDI were positively correlated (ρ = 0.442, p < 0.001), while ASYR and SDI were not significantly correlated (ρ = −0.030, p = 0.669), and EAPC in ASYR and SDI were negatively correlated (ρ = −0.275, p < 0.001). Exposure to mechanical forces and falls were the leading causes of traumatic amputation.

Conclusion

Despite the declining trends in ASIR, ASPR, and ASYR, the incidence, prevalence, and YLDs counts of traumatic amputation have increased significantly worldwide, especially in the older adults population. With the population aging, targeted health policies are needed to address the increasing global burden of traumatic amputations in the future.
The burden of poisoning in children hospitalised at a tertiary-level hospital in South Africa
Authors: Khan Mahtaab , Solomon Fatima , Izu Alane , Bengura Pepukai , Okudo Grace , Maroane Basetsana , Lala Nilesh , Dangor Ziyaad
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Globally, childhood poisoning, accounts for a significant proportion of emergency department admissions. There is a paucity of data from low- and middle-income countries on poisoning in children.

Objective

To describe the incidence, case fatality rate, and types of poisoning in children admitted to a tertiary-level hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Methods

This was a retrospective descriptive study of children hospitalised with poisoning from January 2016 to December 2021 at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. Children were identified from a discharge summary database using ICD-10 codes that describe poisoning. Trends in incidence of poison exposure were reported.

Results

Of the 60,901 admissions during the study period, 2,652 (4.4%) children were diagnosed with poisoning. Most (71.3%) children were less than 5 years of age and 55% were male. The incidence of poisoning per 100,000 was highest at 108.4 (95% CI: 104.3–112.6) in 2019 and decreased to 77.3 (95% CI: 73.9–80.7) in 2020 and 59.6 (95% CI: 56.3–62.5) in 2021. Main causes of poisoning were organic solvents (37.6%), medications (32.9%), and pesticides (17.5%). The overall case fatality rate was 2.1%. In a multivariate analysis, poisoning secondary to pesticides (aOR: 13.9; 95% CI: 4.52–60.8; p < 0.001), and unspecified agents (aOR: 12.7; 95% CI: 3.27–62.8; p < 0.001) were associated with an increased odds of death.

Conclusion

We report a high prevalence of poisoning in children hospitalised in this tertiary-level hospital in South Africa. Public health measures to reduce the burden of organic solvents, medications and pesticide poisoning are urgently warranted.
A Sustainable Approach to Tourism Development in Rural Areas: The Example of Poland
Authors: Widawski Krzysztof , Krzemińska Alicja , Zaręba Anna , Dzikowska Anna
Published: October 2023

The research presented in this article concerns the issue of rural tourism, which is associated with significant economic and landscape changes in the countryside. It is important that tourist development in these areas be subject to the principles of sustainable development, which are important for the preservation of the environment in which tourism operates. The research topic is related to two of the most salient features of rural tourism today, environmental sustainability and pro-environmental behavior, which are considered the right ways to achieve sustainability goals. The main research aim presented is to indicate which of the postulates of sustainable development are being implemented and how concerning the functioning and development of rural tourism is on the Polish tourism market. Another goal is to indicate what types of resources in the rural environment are the basis for the preparation of a tourist product; for whom and how these resources are to be used; as well as the participation of the local community in the management of the resources that constitute its own environment, one of the basic principles of sustainable development. The primary method used was a document analysis and an analysis of selected websites presenting rural environmental resources used in this form of tourism. The research identified that sustainable approaches to tourism development in rural areas in Poland are appropriate with respect to the resources available there and to both natural and cultural values. For resources used in a rural environment, emphasis is placed on the protection of both elements. It has been identified that one idea for their protection is sustainable sharing, which assumes rational use to an extent that would not affect the nature of the assets but at the same time could benefit the local community. Both values are used in different ways but, in addition to their purely recreational value, their educational value is equally important each time.
Correction: Bian et al. Screening of Haustorium Induction Factors of Phelipanche aegyptiaca Pers. Based on Metabolome Analysis of Cucumis melo L. Root Exudates. Agronomy 2023, 13, 128
Authors: Bian Pengxuan , Sun Chang , Cao Xiaolei , Yao Zhaoqun , Zhang Xuekun , Zhao Sifeng
Published: October 2023

In the original publication [...]
Special Issue: “Advances in Waste Treatment and Resource Utilization”
Authors: Ivankovic Tomislav , Jurišic Vanja
Published: October 2023

Waste, in its various forms, is a big issue worldwide but one that can be tackled [...]
Numerical Study of the Flow and Blockage Ratio of Cylindrical Pier Local Scour
Authors: Hurtado-Herrera Mario , Zhang Wei , Hammouti Abdelkader , Pham Van Bang Damien , Nguyen Kim Dan
Published: October 2023

A three-dimensional large eddy simulation model is used to simulate the turbulent flow dynamics around a circular pier in live-bed and clear-water scour conditions. The Navier–Stokes equations are transformed into a σ-coordinate system and solved using a second-order unstructured triangular finite-volume method. We simulate the bed evolution by solving the Exner-Polya equation assisted by a sand-slide model as a correction method. The bedload transport rate is based on the model of Engelund and Fredsœ. The model was validated for live-bed conditions in a wide channel and clear-water conditions in a narrow channel against the experimental data found in the literature. The in-house model NSMP3D can successfully produce both the live-bed and clear-water scouring throughout a stable long-term simulation. The flow model was used to study the effects of the blockage ratio in the flow near the pier in clear-water conditions, particularly the contraction effect at the zone where the scour hole starts to form. The scour depth in the clear water simulations is generally deeper than the live-bed simulations. In clear-water, the results show that the present model is able to qualitatively and quantitatively capture the hydrodynamic and morphodynamic processes near the bed. In comparison to the wide channel situation, the simulations indicate that the scour rate is faster in the narrow channel case.
Experimental Study of the Dynamic Characteristics and Microscopic Mechanism of Lightweight Soil Modified with Expanded Polystyrene and Sisal Fibre
Authors: Zhuang Xinshan , Zhao Jinze
Published: October 2023

With the increasing demand and use of highways, railways and tunnels in China, the phenomena of foundation settlement, uneven deformation and ground cracking caused by the cyclic loading by traffic are becoming increasingly significant. There is now an emphasis on research to prevent or decrease these phenomena by mixing new materials into the soil body. In this study, cyclic loading tests were conducted on lightweight soils modified with expanded polystyrene (EPS) and sisal. A GDS true/dynamic triaxial apparatus was used to study the dynamic elastic modulus and damping ratio of clays with different dosages of EPS and sisal fibre. The modified soil samples were tested, and then, they underwent micro-scale analysis. The results showed that, with the continuous increase in EPS doping and dynamic stress, the trend of the growth of the dynamic strain of the specimens increased. At the same time, with the increase in the dynamic strain, the dynamic elastic modulus decreased, and the trend increased with increasing doping of the soil with EPS particles. A comparison of the improvement effect coefficient of the soil samples showed that the most suitable EPS doping volume was 5%. Different dosages of sisal fibre were added to the most suitable EPS-modified lightweight soil, and the dynamic elastic modulus first increased and then decreased with increasing sisal dosage. In addition, the damping ratio first increased and then decreased. The best dynamic performance of the soil was obtained when the dosage of sisal was 1.2%. Nuclear magnetic resonance and electron microscope scanning tests verified that, when the sisal doping was 1.2%, the soil particles had the largest compactness, the best interparticle bonding and the best improvement effect.
Evaluation of Ride Comfort under Vortex-Induced Vibration of Long-Span Bridge
Authors: Wang Yafei , Zhou Changfa , Zhong Jiwei , Wang Zhengxing , Yao Wenfan , Jiang Yuyin , Laima Shujin
Published: October 2023

The increasing number of suspension bridges has led to designs favoring greater length and flexibility, resulting in a common problem of vortex-induced vibration. While vortex-induced vibration typically does not cause structural damage, it diminishes the bridge’s fatigue resistance and has a detrimental impact on ride comfort. Additionally, this study introduces a road–bridge–vehicle vibration model, proposing an evaluation method for assessing ride comfort during vortex-induced vibrations in long-span bridges. This method features simplified modeling and swift calculations, circumventing the need for intricate finite element modeling and iterative solving. Furthermore, it evaluates ride comfort for vehicles crossing a prototype long-span suspension bridge using the Overall Vibration Total Value (OVTV) and Motion Sickness Incidence (MSI) criteria. This study also analyzes the influence of various parameters on OVTV and MSI, including vehicle speed, road grade, vortex-induced vibration frequency, and amplitude. It establishes a reference limit for vortex-induced vibration amplitude based on OVTV and MSI values. Moreover, the study substantiates that, within the context of vortex-induced vibration, the MSI value is more suitable for evaluating driving comfort compared to the OVTV.
Yeast Surface Dual Display Platform for Rapid Discovery of Shark VNAR from a Semi-Synthetic Library Followed by Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Tsai Chia-Hung , Wang Kuang-Teng , Guo Xuan , Wu Tsung-Meng
Published: October 2023

The shark-derived single-domain antibody VNAR (variable domain of new antigen receptor) has many advantageous features that make the VNAR suitable for improving current monoclonal antibody therapy deficiencies or disease diagnosis methods. In order to discover more VNARs, it is necessary to improve the efficiency of the isolation process. This research aims to enhance the VNAR discovery platform by dual displaying the semi-synthetic VNAR library and green fluorescent protein tag on the yeast surface. The GFP tag can be used to determine the degree of VNAR expression. The diversity of the semi-synthetic VNAR library constructed in this study is verified to be 1.97 × 109 by next-generation sequencing (NGS). We conveniently screened VNARs against the feline neonatal Fc receptor or feline infectious peritonitis virus nucleocapsid protein by sequential MACS and FACS. To find more diverse VNARs, we analyzed the NGS data of VNAR CDR3 genes before and after biopanning. By comparing the frequency change of each sequence, we found that the amplification factor of sequences was increased by biopanning. Four VNAR candidates selected by the high-frequency and high-amplification factor criteria showed an antigen-binding ability. The results demonstrate that biopanning from a yeast surface displaying a semi-synthetic VNAR library followed by the NGS assay can generate antigen binders rapidly without the need for shark rearing and long-term immunization.