bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
¿Resulta una distopía traducir la ciencia ficción?
Authors: Martín Párraga Javier
Published: February 2023

A pesar de lo ambiguo que resulta el término, la ciencia ficción es sin duda una de los géneros más populares de la segunda mitad del siglo XX y comienzos del XXI. Cada año se publican infinidad de novelas que podrían englobarse dentro de esta categoría, así como numerosas películas y series televisivas que hacen lo propio. Por otra parte, aunque siguen existiendo determinadas reticencias, la ciencia ficción no es ya un género minoritario y marginal, sino que autores del prestigio de Margaret Atwood, Douglas Coupland o Kurt Vonnegut producen, o han producido, obras que corresponden de una u otra manera al mismo. El objetivo de la presente comunicación es examinar las dificultades traductológicas que presentan los términos científicos contenidos en estas obras.
“Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard” de Thomas Gray: una propuesta de traducción
Authors: Villa Jiménez Rosalía
Published: February 2023

Trabajo que versa sobre uno de los poemas más célebres de la obra de Thomas Gray, “Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard”. Perteneciente a la denominada “Poesía de las Tumbas”, este poeta se encuentra a caballo entre la tradición neoclásica y la estética romántica que empieza a cultivarse en la segunda mitad del siglo XVIII. En esta vertiente de estela creativa prerromántica, Gray ahonda en temas universales como la muerte, con un estilo complejo, y mediante la evocación del sentimiento melancólico.
Turismo idiomático y cultural en República Dominicana. Un análisis motivacional de la demanda
Authors: Jiménez Beltrán Francisco Javier , Cerezo López José María
Published: February 2023

En este artículo se plantea como principal objetivo de investigación conocer el perfil sociodemográfico, la motivación y la lealtad del turista idiomático en una ciudad Patrimonio de la Humanidad, la ciudad de Santo Domingo de Guzmán (República Dominicana). Así, nos centraremos en el estudio de este tipo de turista en la ciudad y en la posible relación entre sus características sociodemográficas, su motivación y lealtad. La metodología utilizada ha consistido en la realización de un trabajo de campo basado en encuestas a los turistas.
Operational Forecasting of Wind Speed for an Self-Contained Power Assembly of a Traction Substation
Authors: Matrenin P. V. , Khalyasmaa A. I. , Rusina A. G. , Eroshenko S. A. , Papkova N. A. , Sekatski D. A.
Published: February 2023

Currently, the prospects of creating hybrid power assemblies using renewable energy sources, including wind energy, and energy storage systems based on hydrogen energy technologies are being considered. To control such an energy storage system, it is necessary to perform operational renewable sources generation forecasting, particularly forecasting of wind power assemblies. Their production depends on the speed and direction of the wind. The article presents the results of solving the problem of operational forecasting of wind speed for a hybrid power assembly project aimed at increasing the capacity of the railway section between Yaya and Izhmorskaya stations (Kemerovo region of the Russian Federation). Hourly data of wind speeds and directions for 15 years have been analyzed, a neural network model has been built, and a compact architecture of a multilayer perceptron has been proposed for short-term forecasting of wind speed and direction for 1 and 6 hours ahead. The model that has been developed allows minimizing the risks of overfitting and loss of forecasting accuracy due to changes in the operating conditions of the model over time. A specific feature of this work is the stability investigation of the model trained on the data of long-term observations to long-term changes, as well as the analysis of the possibilities of improving the accuracy of forecasting due to regular further training of the model on newly available data. The nature of the influence of the size of the training sample and the self-adaptation of the model on the accuracy of forecasting and the stability of its work on the horizon of several years has been established. It is shown that in order to ensure high accuracy and stability of the neural network model of wind speed forecasting, long-term meteorological observations data are required.
Third-wave psychotherapy for caregivers of cancer patients: a scoping review
Authors: Hong Bomi , Yang Sora , Hyeon Sojeong , Kim Sojeong , Lee Jiyeon
Published: February 2023

Background
Cancer caregivers provide extensive support in all aspects of patients' daily lives. It has been reported that a significant proportion of cancer caregivers experience emotional distress. As one way to solve this problem, third-wave psychotherapy, which involves integrating acceptance and mindfulness into cognitive‒behavioral therapy, has been applied to improve caregiver outcomes.
Methods
A scoping review was conducted based on the scoping review guidelines proposed by the Jonna Briggs Institute (JBI). PCC was established to review the third-wave psychotherapies applied with cancer caregivers. The population was caregivers for cancer patients, the concept was 'third-wave psychotherapy,' and the context remained open. English and Korean publications published from 2001 to June 2022 were identified from PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane, Korea Med, and RISS.
Results
A total of 12 studies were included in this scoping review. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) was the most frequently applied intervention (n = 5), followed by acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT, n = 3) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT, n = 2). Among the six characteristics of third-wave psychotherapy, ‘mindfulness methods’ were identified in most of the studies (n = 12). Dyadic interventions comprised the majority (n = 9). Interventions using digital techniques such as mobile application/web page (n = 3), telephone (n = 3), and FaceTime (n = 2) have increased since 2017. Depression was the most frequently evaluated outcome (n = 8), followed by anxiety and mindfulness (n = 6 each).
Conclusions
The current review examined available third-wave psychotherapies for cancer caregivers and targeted outcomes. Most of the interventions were dyadic interventions and utilized mindfulness techniques with meditation. Delivery methods were continuously updated with digital technologies. Further RCTs with robust research designs and a synthesis of the results of the trials would provide evidence about how to effectively apply third-wave psychological interventions for cancer caregivers.
ucOCN Inhibits Chondrocyte Hypertrophy and Osteoarthritis Development through GPRC6A/HIF-1α Cascade
Authors: Wang Yan , Du Zhangzhen , Li Xu , Zhang Ke , Qin Qiaozhen , Luo Changyi , Wu Jiamei , Zhang Heyang , Liu Shuirong , Xu Zhenghua , Zheng Jing , Fan Shuli , Zhao Yongqi , Jiang Xiaoxia
Published: February 2023

Osteocalcin (OCN), as a characteristic protein expressed at the mature stage of osteoblasts, plays an important role in crosstalk within the skeletal muscle system. Mature OCN is secreted out of the cell after carboxylation in the endoplasmic reticulum. According to the degree of carboxylation, it can be divided into carboxylated OCN (cOCN) and undercarboxylated OCN (ucOCN). The two forms of proteins exhibit different biological activities, which make their functions more complex than those currently recognized. Many literatures reported that more osteocalcin was expressed in the hypertrophic stage of chondrocytes, even as a marker protein of osteoarthritis (OA) chondrocytes. However, these studies paid few attention to the potential different roles of different carboxylated forms of OCN in chondrocytes. Here, we discovered that ucOCN played a significant protecting role in OA development. In OCN knockout (OCN-/-) mice, articular chondrocytes showed a hypertrophic tendency. But in mice OA model, OCN-/- mice didn’t develop more severe OA than WT mice. Meanwhile, OCN in chondrocytes increased significantly and ucOCN in synovial fluid decreased dramatically in WT mice. We hypothesized that intracellular OCN and extracellular ucOCN may play different roles in the development of OA. By manipulating the amount of ucOCN in the synovial fluid in wild type mice and a series of experiments in vitro, we confirmed the protective effect of ucOCN in OA. We further explored the downstream pathway of ucOCN in chondrocytes and verified that ucOCN activates HIF-1α pathway through G protein coupled receptor 6A (GPRC6A) to inhibit chondrocyte hypertrophy.
Novel epigenetic based differentiation therapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: José-Enériz Edurne San , Gimenez-Camino Naroa , Rabal Obdulia , Garate Leire , Miranda Estibaliz , García Fernando , Sáez Elena , Vilas-Zornoza Amaia Amaia , Martín-Uriz Patxi San , Valcárcel Luis V. , Tamariz-Amador Esteban , Alfonso-Pierola Ana , Martinez-Calle Nicolás , Larráyoz María , Calasanz Maria-Jose , Muñoz Javier , Martin-Subero Jose Ignacio , Pineda Antonio , Oyarzabal Julen , Agirre Xabier , Prosper Felipe
Published: February 2023

Despite the development of novel therapies for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), outcomes remain poor for most patients, and therapeutic improvements are an urgent unmet need. Although treatment regimens promoting differentiation have succeeded in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), their role in other AML subtypes needs to be explored. Here we identified and characterized two lysine (K) deacetylase inhibitors (DACi), CM-444 and CM-1758, exhibiting capacity to promote myeloid differentiation in all AML subtypes at low non-cytotoxic doses unlike other commercial HDACi. Analyzing the acetylome after CM-444 and CM-1758 treatment revealed modulation of non-histone proteins involved in the enhancer–promoter chromatin regulatory complex, including bromodomain proteins (BRDs). This acetylation was essential for enhancing the expression of key transcription factors directly involved in the differentiation therapy induced by CM-444/CM-1758 in AML. In summary, these compounds may represent effective differentiation-based therapeutic agents across AML subtypes with a novel mechanism for treatment of AML.
Encephalartos villosus and Vigna unguiculata L. (Walp) shared symbionts contribute to V. unguiculata plant nutrition and growth in nutrient-deficient ecosystems
Authors: Motsomane Nqobile , Suinyuy Terence , Magadlela Anathi
Published: February 2023

Cycads are ancient plants that establish symbiotic associations with plant growth-promoting (PGP) microbes. These ancient associations are rarely contrasted with more recent associations involving PGP microbes and legumes. This study investigated if V. unguiculata growing in Encephalartos villosus acidic, and nutrient-deficient rhizosphere and surrounding soils may share similar symbionts. In addition, the biomass accumulation and plant nutrition in V. unguiculata growing in these soils was investigated. Vigna unguiculata seeds were grown in E. villosus rhizosphere and surrounding soils for 45 days. Thereafter, growth characteristics and plant nutrition were calculated. Vigna unguiculata plants grown in E. villosus rhizosphere and surrounding soils were nodulated by Paenibacillus, Bacillus, Peribacillus, Brevibacillus, Alkalihalobacillus, and Lysinibacillus species that were also identified in E. villosus coralloid roots. There were no significant differences in the total plant biomass, however, V. unguiculata plants in rhizosphere and surrounding soils invested more resources in belowground biomass. The findings of this study show that V. unguiculata and E. villosus growing in similar soil conditions may share the same symbionts promoting plant nutrient assimilation and growth.
Application of a novel Deep Eutectic Solvent as a capable and new catalyst for the synthesis of tetrahydropyridines and 1,3-thiazolidin-4-ones
Authors: Goodarzi Hadis , Habibi Davood , Monem Arezo
Published: February 2023

A novel Deep Eutectic Solvent (ETPP-Br/THF-TCA-DES) was prepared by a mixture of ethyl triphenylphosphonium bromide (MTPP-Br) and tetrahydrofuran-2,3,4,5-tetra-carboxylic acid (THF-TCA, mole ratio 7:3) in a cheap, simple, and non-toxic method, characterized by FT-IR, TGA/DTA, densitometer, eutectic point, and 1H NMR techniques and used as a capable and new catalyst for the synthesis of two sets of compounds: i) the four new [a(1-4)] and the ten [a(5-15)] known alkyl 1,2,6-trisubstituted-4-[(hetero)arylamino]-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine-3-carboxyl-ates, and ii) the two new [b(1-2)] and the eight [b(3-10)] known 1,3-thiazolidin-4-ones in solvent-free conditions, short reaction time, high yields, and easy recycling and separation of the DES catalyst.
There is a nice consistency between the proposed structure of the DES compound, the integration values of the 1H NMR peaks and the ratio of ETPP-Br to THF-TCA obtained from the eutectic point phase diagram.
Also, the decrease in splitting patterns of the peaks in DES, compared to the two starting materials can be a good evidence of hydrogen bond formation between the two components.
Thematic analysis of national online narratives on regular asymptomatic testing in schools in the United Kingdom
Authors: Taylor-Egbeyemi Jo , Carter Holly , Robin Charlotte
Published: February 2023

Objective: To understand the public perceptions of the schools testing programme in England.
Design: Qualitative social media analysis.
Setting: Online users of parenting forums (Mumsnet and Netmums), Facebook and Daily Mail online readers, who responded to randomly selected posts or articles about the schools testing programme in England, between 1 and 31 March, 2021.
Results: Overall, seven main themes were identified, these were divided into barriers and facilitators to engaging in testing. Barriers were: uncertainty around testing in the absence of symptoms; concerns about testing; concern about testing positive; mistrust in the Government. Facilitators were: desire to protect others; desire to return to normality; and hearing others’ positive experiences.
Conclusions: Our analysis highlighted that alongside well-established barriers to engaging in asymptomatic testing, parents were having to negotiate additional complex decisions around balancing their child’s anxiety over testing alongside acknowledgement of the implications of regular testing, such as return to normality and protecting others. Parents and children would benefit from additional practical and social support to facilitate engagement with the schools testing programme.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals the mechanism underlying the anthocyanin changes in Fragaria nilgerrensis Schlecht. and its interspecific hybrids
Authors: Wang Ai-Hua , Ma Hong-Ye , Zhang Xing-Tao , Zhang Bao-Hui , Li Fei
Published: February 2023

Background: Fragaria nilgerrensis (FN) provides a rich source of genetic variations for strawberry germplasm innovation. The coloration of strawberry fruits is a critical factor affecting consumer preferences. However, the genetic basis of the fruit color formation in F. nilgerrensis and its interspecific hybrids has rarely been researched.
Results: In this study, the fruit transcriptomes and flavonoid contents of FN (white skin; control) and its interspecific hybrids BF1 and BF2 (pale red skin) were compared. A total of 31 flavonoids were identified. Notably, two pelargonidin derivatives (pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside and pelargonidin-3-O-rutinoside) were revealed as potential key pigments for the coloration of BF1 and BF2 fruits. Additionally, DFR (LOC101293459 and LOC101293749) and BZ1 (LOC101300000), which are crucial structural genes in the anthocyanidin biosynthetic pathway, had significantly up-regulated expression levels in the two FN interspecific hybrids. Moreover, most of the genes encoding transcription factors (e.g., MYB, WRKY, TCP, bHLH, AP2, and WD40) related to anthocyanin accumulation were differentially expressed. We also identified two DFR genes (LOC101293749 and LOC101293459) that were significantly correlated with bHLH, MYB, WD40, AP2, and bZIP transcription factors. Two CHS genes (LOC101298162 and LOC101298456) and a BZ1 gene (LOC101300000) were highly correlated with bHLH, WD40, and AP2 transcription factors.
Conclusions: Pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside and pelargonidin-3-O-rutinoside may be the key pigments contributing to the formation of pale red fruit skin. DFR and BZ1 structural genes and some bHLH, MYB, WD40, AP2, and bZIP TF family members enhance the accumulation of two pelargonidin derivatives. This study provides important insights into the regulation of anthocyanidin biosynthesis inFN and its interspecific hybrids. The presented data may be relevant for improving strawberry fruit coloration via genetic engineering.
Initial End-to-End testing of the ExacTrac Dynamic Deep Inspiration Breath Hold workflow using a breath hold breast phantom
Authors: Goodall Simon , Rampant Peter L
Published: February 2023

The ExacTrac Dynamic (ETD) system provides a Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) workflow for treatment of left sided breast patients. Combined stereoscopic x-ray imaging with optical and thermal mapping allows localisation against simulation imaging, alongside surface guided breath hold monitoring. This work aimed to determine appropriate x-ray breast imaging parameters, optimal Hounsfield Unit (HU) values for patient contour generation and workflow evaluation via end-to-end (E2E) positioning testing. After phantom localisation via existing Image Guidance (IG), stereoscopic imaging was performed with a range of parameters to determine minimal residual error. Similarly, residual errors in prepositioning were minimised using a range of HU value external contours. E2E positioning was completed for clinical workflows and residual positioning error was measured using treatment field deviations and existing IG. Parameters of 60 kV and 25mAs were determined appropriate for patient imaging and HU values between -600 HU and 200 HU enabled adequate prepositioning. The average residual position error measured using treatment fields was 1.0 ± 0.9 mm, 0.4 ± 1.0 mm and 0.1 ± 0.5 mm in the lateral, longitudinal and vertical directions, respectively. Errors measured using existing IG were -0.6 ± 1.1 mm, 0.5 ± 0.7 mm and 0.2 ± 0.4 mm in the lateral, longitudinal and vertical directions, and rotational errors averaged of 0.0 ± 1.0 o, 0.5 ± 1.7 o and -0.8 ± 1.8o for pitch roll and yaw, respectively. The use of bone weighted matching increased residual error. A reduction of phantom DIBH volume maintained target positioning accuracy.
Inhibition of DAMP Actions in the Tumoral Microenvironment Using Lactoferrin-Glycyrrhizin Nanoconjugate for Glioblastoma Therapy
Authors: Kim Hyung Shik , Park Seok Chan , Kim Hae Jin , Lee Dong Yun
Published: February 2023

Background
High-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) released from the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in the tumor progression. HMGB1 serves as a damaged-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) that induces tumor angiogenesis and its development. Glycyrrhizin (GL) is an effective intracellular antagonist of tumor released HMGB1, but its pharmacokinetics (PK) and delivery to tumor site is deficient. To address this shortcoming, we developed lactoferrin-glycyrrhizin (Lf-GL) conjugate.
Methods
Biomolecular interaction between Lf-GL and HMGB1 was evaluated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) binding affinity assay. Inhibition of tumor angiogenesis and development by Lf-GL attenuating HMGB1 action in the tumor microenvironment was comprehensively evaluated through in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. Pharmacokinetic study and anti-tumor effects of Lf-GL were investigated in orthotopic glioblastoma mice model.
Results
Lf-GL interacts with lactoferrin receptor (LfR) expressed on BBB and GBM, therefore, efficiently inhibits HMGB1 in both the cytoplasmic and extracellular regions of tumors. Regarding the tumor microenvironment, Lf-GL inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth by blocking HMGB1 released from necrotic tumors and preventing recruitment of vascular endothelial cells. In addition, Lf-GL improved the PK properties of GL approximately 10-fold in the GBM mouse model and reduced tumor growth by 32%. Concurrently, various biomarkers for tumor were radically diminished.
Conclusion
Collectively, our study demonstrates a close association between HMGB1 and tumor progression, suggesting Lf-GL as a potential strategy for coping with DAMP-related tumor microenvironment.
Reciprocal Effect between Depressive Symptoms and Adolescent Non-suicidal self-injury before and after COVID-19: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Hu Rui , Peng Li-li , Du Yu , Feng Yi-wei , Xie Lin-shen , Shi Wei , Jia Peng , Jiang Li-hua , Zhao Li
Published: February 2023

Background
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a common psychological and behavioral problem among adolescents and has now become a major public health problem for adolescents. Since the COVID-19 outbreak in 2019, it has caused various mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and mental burnout, contributing to a severe mental health crisis globally. Thus far, a few studies recorded the temporal change in adolescents’ psychological status during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as that with the implementation of large-scale public health intervention methods, and this study adds to the evidence.
Methods
Based on the Chengdu Positive Child Development (CPCD) survey, the baseline dataset was collected in December 2019, and the first follow-up of the CPCD was conducted in July 2020. A total of 6,023 adolescents aged 10-19 were recruited from five primary and middle schools. Two independent autoregressive cross-lagged models were used to test the bidirectional relationship between NSSI and depressive symptoms in adolescents; logistic regression analysis was used to explore the predictors of NSSI implementation in adolescents with depressive symptoms, which could provide an entry point for behavioral interventions to NSSI.
Results
The prevalence of depressive symptoms among our participants was 32.69% at baseline, and 34.27% at follow-up. The occurrence rate of NSSI in adolescents who may have depressive symptoms was 44.34%%, and that during the pandemic was 53.44%. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The results of the binary logistic analysis showed that among adolescents, gender, duration of the online class, depression mood, place of residence, and self-perception of relationship with caregivers were the risk factors for NSSI (or > 1, β> 0), and daily sleep hours positive mood was the protective factor (or < 1, β< 0). The lag effect of adolescent depression on their NSSI behavior is significant, which means that based on controlling the adolescent baseline NSSI, the deeper the adolescent depression degree, the more frequent their NSSI behavior (β=0.26, P<0.01). At the same time, adolescents' NSSI behavior also had a lagging effect on depressive symptoms, and adolescents with self-injury behavior were more likely to be depressed (β=0.02, P<0.01). Depression and NSSI are mutual(β=0.77, P<0.05；β=0.27, P<0.01).
Conclusions
The increased depressive symptoms among adolescents exacerbated their NSSI behaviors and hurt their mental health during COVID-19. Screening for depression should be carried out early to serve as a warning sign in preventing and reducing NSSI in adolescents.
Mechanism of salt tolerance in endangered semi-mangrove plant Barringtonia racemosa: anatomical structure, photosynthetic and fluorescence characteristics
Authors: Hu Ju , Deng Xu , Bai Caihong , Li Lin , Yang Xiuling , Lan Chunxiao , Zhong Haiyan , Tan Xiaohui , Liang Fang
Published: February 2023

Barringtonia racemosa is a rare and endangered semi-mangrove plant with salt tolerance (≤ 25‰ salt). However, mechanisms governing the salt tolerance has not been elucidated. Therefore, biomass, photosynthetic and fluorescent characteristics, and anatomical structure of B. racemosa were studied to investigate the mechanism of salt tolerance. The results showed that stem dry weight decreased under high salt stress (30‰-40‰). Net photosynthetic rate, intercellular CO2 concentration of B. racemosa significantly decreased under 35‰ and 40‰ salt treatments, Fv/Fm decreased significantly under 40‰ salt stress, ΦPSI decreased significantly under 35‰ and 40‰ salt stress. The thickness of epidermis of root significantly increased under 25‰ and 40‰ salt treatments. The outer cortex and stele diameters of root significantly increased, under high salt treatments. The xylem and phloem of stem significantly increased under salt treatments, while the cambium and cortex of stem significantly decreased under salt treatments. The width of the increment or stable palisade tissue and spongy mesophyll. Therefore, stable net photosynthetic rate and intercellular CO2 concentration, increment of Fv/Fm and ΦPSI, the increment or stable palisade tissue and spongy mesophyll of leaf and the increment of epidermis, outer cortex, and stele diameter of root could contribute to salt tolerance of B. racemosa.
Non-driver mutations landscape in different stages of primary myelofibrosis determined ASXL1 mutations play a critical role in disease progression
Authors: Yan Xin , Xu Zefeng , Zhang Peihong , Sun Qi , Jia Yujiao , Qing Tiejun , Qu Shiqiang , Pan Lijuan , Li Zhanqi , Liu Jinqin , Song Zhen , GAO QINGYAN , Jiao Meng , Gong Jingye , Wang Huijun , Li Bing , Xiao Zhijian
Published: February 2023

Except for driver mutations (JAK2, MPL, CALR), primary myelofibrosis (PMF) patients have much more non-driver mutations than polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) patients. The relationship between disease progression (prefibrotic (Pre) to overtfibrotic (Overt) to accelerate phase/blast phase (AP/BP)) and non-driver mutations is still not very clear. To uncover the effect of these non-driver mutations in the progression of PMF, we retrospectively analyzed 275 samples in different stages (69 Pre-PMF, 161 Overt-PMF and 45 PMF-AP/BP) from 258 consecutive patients. Univariate analysis showed that ASXL1 mutations were closely related to PMF progression with increasing frequency in this process. Multivariate analysis furtherly confirmed that ASXL1 mutations were enriched both in Overt-PMF and in PMF-AP/BP, while U2AF1 mutations were only enriched in Overt-PMF and RUNX1 and NRAS mutations were only enriched in PMF-AP/BP. The data of serial samples from Overt-PMF patients who developed to AP/BP showed that ASXL1 mutations more frequently co-occurred with newly acquired RAS pathway mutations, while RUNX1 mutations were usually freshly acquired with independence on ASXL1 mutations during AP/BP transformation. Collectively, ASXL1 mutations may play a crucial role in the whole course of PMF progression and should be targeted as potential intervention point.
Assessing the genetic relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease and chronic respiratory diseases: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cheng Xiaoxue , Shi Jiang , Zhang Ding , Li Caichen , He Jianxing , Liang Wenhua
Published: February 2023

Background
Although the association between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic respiratory diseases was found in previous observational studies, it remains uncertain whether GERD causally influences them. Herein, we aimed to estimate the causal associations between GERD and 5 chronic respiratory diseases.
Methods
88 GERD-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified by the latest genome-wide association study were included as instrumental variables. Individual-level genetic summary data of participants were obtained from corresponding studies and the FinnGen consortium. We applied the inverse-variance weighted method to estimate the causality between genetically predicted GERD and 5 chronic respiratory diseases. Furthermore, the associations between GERD and common risk factors were investigated, and mediation analyses were conducted using multivariable MR. Various sensitivity analyses were also performed to verify the robustness of the findings.
Results
This study demonstrated that genetically predicted GERD was causally associated with an increased risk of asthma (OR 1.39, 95%CI 1.25–1.56, P < 0.001), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) (OR 1.43, 95%CI 1.05–1.95, P = 0.022), chronic obstructive disease (COPD) (OR 1.64, 95%CI 1.41–1.93, P < 0.001), chronic bronchitis (OR 1.77, 95%CI 1.15–2.74, P = 0.009), while no correlation was observed for bronchiectasis (OR 0.93, 95%CI 0.68–1.27, P = 0.645). Additionally, GERD was associated with 10 common risk factors for chronic respiratory diseases. Nevertheless, no significant mediators were discovered.
Conclusions
Our study indicated that GERD was a causal factor in the development of asthma, IPF, COPD and chronic bronchitis, suggesting that GERD-associated micro-aspiration of gastric contents process might play a role in the development of pulmonary fibrosis in these diseases.
The effect of interaction between selenium and other elements on the cognitive function of rural elderly Chinese
Authors: Duan Lidan , Su Liqin , He Xiaohong , Du Yegang , Duan Yanying , Xu Ning , Wu Rangpeng , Zhu Yunfeng , Shao Ranqi , Unverzagt Frederick W , Hake Ann M , Jin Yinlong , Gao Sujuan
Published: February 2023

Purpose
To evaluate the association between combined exposure of selenium (Se) and other elements and cognitive function in older adults.
Methods
A cross-sectional study involving 416 rural older adults aged 60 or older was conducted in four areas with different soil Se levels in Enshi county, China. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to determine whole blood Se, copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) concentration. Nine standard cognitive tests were applied to assess cognitive function. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and generalized linear models (GLM) were used to determine the association between elements exposure and cognitive function.
Results
The results of Lasso regression show that Se, Cu, Fe, Zn, Ca and Pb were independently identified to be associated with cognition. ANCOVA and GLM consistently indicated that Se and Ca were related to cognitive function. The multi-element model incorporating these selected six elements showed higher composite Z scores of 0.32 (95%CI: 0.087 to 0.533) for log-transformed Se (p < 0.05), 0.75 (95%CI: 0.007 to 1.493) for log-transformed Cu (p = 0.048) and a lower score of 0.67 (95%CI: -1.263 to -0.083) for log-transformed Ca (p < 0.05). Moreover, Se can antagonize the negative effect of Ca on cognitive function (p for interaction = 0.031).
Conclusion
Our findings suggested that higher Se and Cu level were associated with better cognitive function in the elderly, and blood Se can antagonize the cognitive damage of blood Ca.
New mathematical statements about the cardinality and the intersection of P problems, NP problems and NP-Hard problems
Authors: Louiz Akram
Published: February 2023

Thanks to my short studies about informatics, I present to you this mathematical proof that deals with the sets of P problems, NP-Complete problems and NP-Hard problems in order to prove new formulas about the cardinality of each group of problems and about the intersection of each one of these sets. This work ends with a theoremabout the complexity ofproblems that allows us to identify NP problems even if their algorithms have infinite time of execution. Hence, I invite all the readers to use and develop the formulas of this article and to present their opinions about them.
Serum inflammatory biomarkers are associated with increased choroidal thickness in Keratoconus
Authors: Pinheiro-Costa João , Lima-Fontes Mario , Luís Carla , Martins Sandra , Soares Raquel , Madeira Dulce , Falcão-Reis Fernando , Carneiro Angela
Published: February 2023

Inflammation may play a significant role in Keratoconus (KC), but the relationship between inflammatory markers and choroidal thickness (CT) is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate serum inflammatory markers and correlate them with the choroidal profile of KC patients and control subjects. Forty patients with KC and 26 age-matched control subjects were enrolled in a cross-sectional case-control study. Choroidal profile was studied with a Spectralis Heidelberg apparatus and venous blood samples were collected. Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte/HDL ratio (MHR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and systemic immune inflammation index (SII) were calculated. Serum inflammatory biomarkers IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-alfa were also analyzed. KC group presented thicker choroids in each evaluated point when compared to the control group (subfoveal CT 417.38 ± 79.79 vs 299.61 ± 76.13, p < 0.001 for all measured locations). Mean values of NLR, PLR and SII were significantly higher in patients with KC (NLR p = 0.001; PLR p = 0.042; SII p = 0.007). Although KC patients presented higher mean levels of MHR, IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α than control group, no significant differences were achieved. Positive correlations were found between subfoveal CT and NLR and SII (0.408, p = 0.001 and 0.288, p = 0.019 respectively). The results presented are in favor of a relationship between the increased CT and inflammatory mechanisms in KC patients. The elevated serum inflammatory indices NLR, SII and PLR provide additional evidence of a role for systemic inflammation in the pathophysiology of KC.
Alterations in Dynamic Functional Connectivity in Patients with Cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Chen Futao , Chen Qian , Zhu Yajing , Long Cong , Lu Jiaming , Jiang Yaoxian , Zhang Xin , Zhang Bing
Published: February 2023

Background: Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a common disease that seriously endangers people's health, and is easily overlooked by both patients and clinicians due to its near-silent onset. Dynamic functional connectivity (DFC) is a new concept focusing on the dynamic features and patterns of brain networks, that represents a powerful tool for gaining novel insight into neurological diseases.
Purpose: To assess alterations in DFC in CSVD patients, and the correlation of DFC with cognitive function.
Methods: We enrolled 35 CSVD patients and 31 normal control subjects (NC). Resting-state functional MRI with a sliding-window approach and k-means clustering based on independent component analysis (ICA) was used to evaluate DFC. The temporal properties of fractional windows and the mean dwell time in each state, as well as the number of transitions between each pair of DFC states, were calculated. Additionally, we assessed the strength of the dynamic states and the associations of altered neuroimaging measures with cognitive performance.
Results: A dynamic analysis of all included subjects suggested four distinct functional connectivity states. Compared with the NC group, the CSVD group had more fractional windows and longer mean dwell times in state 4 characterized by sparse functional connections both within and between networks. Additionally, the CSVD group had a reduced number of windows and reduced dwell times compared to the NC group in state 3 characterized by highly positive FC between the somatomotor and visual networks, and negative FC in the basal ganglia and somatomotor and visual networks. The number of transitions between state2 and state3, and between state3 and state4 was significantly reduced in the CSVD group compared to the NC group. Moreover, there was a statistically significant difference in the connection strength between the two groups, and the altered temporal properties of DFC were significantly related to cognitive performance.
Conclusion: Our study indicated that CSVD is characterized by altered temporal properties in DFC that may be sensitive neuroimaging biomarkers for early disease identification. Further study of DFC changes could help us to better understand the progressive dysfunction of networks in CSVD states.
Machine learning-based prognostic modeling of lysosome-related genes for predicting prognosis and immune status of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Wenhua , Wang Qianwen , Lu Junxia , Zhao Bin , Geng Yuqing , Wu Xiangwei , Chen Xueling
Published: February 2023

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and lysosomes play an important role in cancer progression as organelles that break down biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides; however, the molecular mechanisms of lysosome-related genes in hepatocellular carcinoma are not fully understood.
Methods：We downloaded hepatocellular carcinoma datasets from the Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) as well as lysosome-related gene sets from AIMGO .After univariate Cox screening of the set of lysosome-associated genes differentially expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma and normal tissues, risk models were built by machine learning. Model effects were then assessed using the concordance index (C-index), Kaplan-Meier (K-M) and receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC), and the “GSVA” package was used to explore the biological function and immune microenvironment between the high- and low-risk groups, and the “IMvigor210CoreBiologies” package was used to analyse the response of the high- and low-risk groups to immunotherapy responsiveness, the “pRRophetic”package was used to explore the sensitivity of the high and low-risk groups to chemotherapeutic agents and finally the function of a key gene (RAMP3) was explored at the cellular level.
Results ：univariate Cox yielded 46 differentially and prognostically significant lysosome-related genes and risk models were constructed using eight genes (RAMP3,GPLD1,FABP5,CD68,CSPG4,SORT1,CSPG5,CSF3R) derived from machine learning. The C-index and ROC showed that the risk model was a better predictor of clinical outcomes, with the K-M values indicating that the higher risk group had worse clinical outcomes. There were significant differences in biological function, immune microenvironment and responsiveness to immunotherapy and drug sensitivity between the high and low-risk groups. Finally, we found that RAMP3 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells and correlated with the sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells to Idarubicin.
Conclusion：Lysosome-associated gene risk models built by machine learning can effectively predict patient prognosis and offer new prospects for chemotherapy and immunotherapy in HCC. In addition, cellular-level experiments suggest that RAMP3 may be a new target for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Characteristics Study of Mechanical and Tribological Behaviour of Gr/Sn Dispersed Al-7Si Alloy Matrix Composite Processed Through Bottom Pouring Stir Casting Technique
Authors: ajay C. Veera , Mohammed K. Thoufiq , Hariharasakthisudhan P. , Kumar V. Nantha , Vishnu R.
Published: February 2023

Among numerous techniques to manufacture Aluminium metal matrix composites, the stir-casting route is employed for mass production because of less expensive. In this work, Al-7Si alloy-based composites reinforced with 10wt% graphite and x wt% of tin (x = 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10) microparticles are manufactured through the bottom pouring casting route. This study deals with the various effect of the mechanical properties, and wear resistance of Gr, and Sn particulates reinforced Al-7Si alloy matrix composite. The added Sn metal powder up to 7.5 wt.% was diffused in the lattice of hypo eutectic Al-7Si alloy and formed a solid solution. The hybridization of Sn with graphite in Al-7Si alloy matrix brought significant enhancement in the tribological and mechanical properties of the composites. The ductile mode of fracture in all the composites with tear ridges and dimples was noted. The wear rate and the coefficient of friction of the composites were decreased with the addition of Sn metal powder in the material system. The Sn metal powder surfaced during the wear process and formed a thin mechanically mixed tribo layer and reduced the friction. The thin mechanically mixed tribo layer at the interface restricted the direct contact of asperities in the mating surface and reduced the wear loss. Adhesive wear was found to be active in the composites with Sn metal powder.
A fundamental inequality governing the rate coding response of sensory neurons
Authors: Wong Willy
Published: February 2023

A fundamental inequality governing the spike activity of peripheral neurons is derived and tested against auditory data. This inequality states that the steady-state firing rate must lie between the arithmetic and geometric means of the spontaneous and peak activities during adaptation. Implications towards the development of auditory mechanistic models are explored.
Multi-criteria decision process to identify groundwater potential zones using geospatial tools in the Arghandab river basin, Afghanistan
Authors: Farahmand Asadullah , Hussaini Mohammad Salem , Jawadi Hussain Ali , Abrunhosa Manuel , Thomas Brian F.
Published: February 2023

This study used remote sensing (RS) and geographic information system (GIS) techniques to assess groundwater potential areas by applying two multi-criteria decision-making analyses in the Arghandab river basin. Twelve influencing parameters summarizing basin characteristics were gathered and generated using geospatial RS and GIS tools. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and analytical network process (ANP) were examined to weigh, ranking, and reclassify raster to produce groundwater potential maps. Two multi-criteria decision models were applied to compare results and suitability in the study area. The results of the AHP analysis delineate five groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) classified as very poor (29%), poor (22%), moderate (17%), high (19%), and very high (14%). On the other hand, the results of the ANP analysis classified GWPZs as very poor (25%), poor (9%), moderate (25%), high (30%), and very high (11%). To validate generated GWPZs maps, a total of 270 well locations data were utilized in the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. ROC model accuracy in training and validation stages is marginally higher for the ANP model (0.810 and 0.823) as compared to the AHP model (0.749 and 0.742). The groundwater potential map delineated in this study offers a preliminary assessment to scientists, public authorities, and policymakers for sustainable management of groundwater resources in the study area.
A Late Diagnosis of Pilocytic Astrocytoma in a Dandy-Walker Complex: Case Report
Authors: Fernando Castro-Soto , Alfonso Alvarez Castro Jose , Aguilar-Hidalgo Keren Magaly , Santellán-Hernández José Omar , Perez Sonia Iliana Mejia
Published: February 2023

Dandy-Walker Malformation (DWM) and Pilocytic Astrocitoma are both rare disease entities that typically manifest early in life are associated with congenital etiological factors. DWM is a cerebellar malformation associated with a series of anatomical changes.The disease onset is usually at bith or during infancy. Late onset in adulthood is uncommon., Pilocytic astrocytoma is a tumor that arises from glial cells, primarily astrocytes, and is classified as grade I by the WHO. It is typically diagnosed in children and is frequently found in the posterior fossa. Concomitant occurrence of DWM and Pilocytic Astrocytoma there are very few reported cases.
Analysis of stress development during kiln drying of beech timber
Authors: Majka Jerzy , Sydor Maciej
Published: February 2023

The moisture content of timber must be reduced by drying before its use. This study aims to evaluate this cracking risk during the drying of beech wood samples using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and develop an empirical model describing the relationship between the occurrence of critical tensile stress during an early stage of drying and the air parameters commonly used in kiln-drying schedules of beech timber, i.e., dry-bulb temperature (DBT) and wet-bulb depression (WBD). Nine options of drying conditions were analyzed in the study according to the Central Composite Design (CCD) assumptions; they were combinations of three option of DBT (30 °C, 40 °C, and 50 °C) and three option of WBD (4 °C, 5 °C, and 6 °C). During the experiments, a tangential shrinkage of the wood samples was completely restrained with a load cell that measured generated tensile drying stresses. The results of the ANOVA analysis confirmed that the DBT is the only factor significantly influencing the tensile stress at failure (σf). The second-order effect between DBT and WBD has also been confirmed. The drying condition causing the highest risk of cracking was shown using the multiple contour plots of tensile stresses at failure and the moisture content at failure (MCf). Reliability theory was used to predict the cracking risk of wood tissue. The analysis confirmed the dependence of the cracking risk of wood tissue on the drying conditions. In the case of DWT equal to 30 °C, the cracking risk increases as the relative humidity (RH) decreases. However, during drying beech wood samples at a temperature of 50 °C, decreasing the RH in the range corresponding to the increase of WBD from 4 to 6 °C, reduces the cracking risk, which is pointed out by the lower moisture content at failure (MCf) of the wood samples.
Physical Activity, Screen Time and Body Composition in Adolescents: A Population-based Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Oei Edwin , Wu Tong , Yang-Huang Junwen , Vernooij Meike , Rodriguez‑Ayllon María , Jaddoe Vincent , Raat Hein , Klein Stefan
Published: February 2023

Background
Physical activity and sedentary behaviors have been shown to have varying health benefits. Nevertheless, it is unclear how physical activity and screen time affect body composition during adolescence. This study examined the associations of physical activity and screen time with overall and abdominal fat depositions in general pediatric population.
Methods
In a population-based prospective cohort study, among 3.258 adolescents aged 13 years, physical activity and screen time were assessed via self-report questionnaires. Body mass index, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-based measures (i.e., fat mass index (FMI), lean body mass index and android/gynoid fat mass ratio (A/G ratio)), and magnetic resonance imaging-based measures (i.e., abdominal subcutaneous fat index, abdominal visceral fat index and abdominal visceral/subcutaneous fat mass ratio) were obtained.
Results
After adjusting for social-demographic and growth-related factors, a change of per additional hour per day spent in physical activity was associated with lower FMI (Z score difference, -0.08; 95% CI, -0.14 to 0.01), A/G ratio (-0.10 [-0.18; -0.03]) and abdominal visceral fat index (-0.11 [0.20; -0.02]), and higher lean body mass index (0.15 [0.08; 0.22]). A change of per additional hour per day spent in screen time was also associated with higher body mass index (0.02 [0.01; 0.04]), FMI (0.02 [0.01; 0.03]), A/G ratio (0.03 [0.02; 0.04]), abdominal subcutaneous fat index (0.03 [0.02; 0.05]) and abdominal visceral fat index (0.03 [0.01; 0.05]), and lower abdominal visceral/subcutaneous fat mass ratio (-0.02 [-0.04; -0.01]).
Conclusion
Adolescents with higher physical activity and lower screen time had lower levels of adiposity both at the general and visceral levels. This information may be used for future work to develop targeted intervention strategies that improve body composition among adolescents.