bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mir-142-3P regulates MAPK protein family by inhibiting 14-3-3η to enhance bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells osteogenesis
Authors: liu Ya-qian , Xu Yue-chen , Xu Shen-qian , Shuai Zong-wen
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Clinical studies have found 14-3-3η to be associated with osteoporosis through undefined mechanisms. We aimed to investigate the role of 14-3-3η in osteoporosis and its potential associations with miRNAs.
Patients and methods:The Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO) and Human Protein Atlas(HPA) databases were analyzed to examine both the mRNA and protein expression of 14-3-3η in OP. Gene enrichment analyses were performed to explore the underlying mechanism of 14-3-3η based on DAVID. miRWalk was used to predict the associated miRNAs. The statistic were analysed by R software and SPSS software. 14-3-3η was overexpressed and knock down expressed in BMSCs by lentiviral vector transfecting. qRT-PCR and Western-Blot verified the expression of mRNA and protein. Scratch assay detected the migration of osteocytes. Co-immunoprecipitation and luciferase assay studied the 14-3-3η targeted protein and miRNA. overexpression and knock down of miRNA to verify the relationship of 14-3-3η and target genes.
Results: The 14-3-3η mRNA expression level was low in patients with osteoporosis, as corroborated by immunohistochemical staining images. Functional analyses revealed enrichment of the MAPK-associated cascade. 14-3-3η was correlated with MAPK family proteins and five key miRNAs, including mir-142-3p. In addition, 14-3-3η knockdown in BMSCs increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of Hif-α, VEGF, BMP-2, OPN, OST, and Runx2, and enhanced the cells migration ability. Under hypoxic conditions, Hif-α and BMP-2 protein expression levels were upregulated, whereas those of 14-3-3η and MAPK3 were downregulated. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed decreased binding of 14-3-3η to MAPK3. 14-3-3η knockdown produced the same results as hypoxia induction. Adding caspase3 inhibitor and knocking down 14-3-3η again prevented MAPK3 cleavage by caspase3 and inhibited BMP-2 expression. Moreover, under hypoxic conditions, miR-142-3P expression was upregulated and luciferase assays revealed 14-3-3η as its target gene. miR-142-3P overexpression decreased mRNA and protein levels of 14-3-3η and MAPK3, while increasing BMP-2 expression. miR-142-3P knockdown reversed these results.
Conclusions: 14-3-3η inhibited BMSC osteogenesis, while miRNA-142-3p enhanced it by inhibiting 14-3-3η.
Diabetes Mellitus and Latent Tuberculosis Infection: An Updated Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Zhou Guozhong , Guo Xin , Cai Shunli , Zhang Yu , Zhou Yuanyuan , Long Rong , Zhou Yingchen , Li Hanse , Chen Nan , Song Chao
Published: March 2023

Background
Previous studies have shown an association between diabetes mellitus (DM) and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), but there is limited evidence on the association between diabetes and LTBI. This study was conducted to systematically assess the association between DM and LTBI.
Methods
We searched Embase, Cochrane Library, and PubMed with no start date or language restrictions on July 19, 2022. Observational studies providing adjusted effect estimates of the association between DM and LTBI were included. The methodological quality of eligible studies was assessed, with pooled effects estimated using random-effects models with risk ratios (RRs), odds ratios (ORs), and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results
We included 22 studies involving 68,256 subjects. Three cohort studies were eligible, with an RR of 1.69 (95% CI: 0.79–3.64). Nineteen cross-sectional studies were eligible, with a pooled OR of 1.23 (95% CI: 1.06–1.43). Although not reaching statistical significance, the pooled OR of contacts and immigrants was higher than that of community residents (pooled OR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.23–1.86 versus 1.19, 95% CI: 0.66–2.14, respectively). In addition, the pooled OR was higher in the diabetes group using HbA1c diagnosis than in the self-reported diabetes group, with pooled OR values of 1.38 (95% CI: 0.83–2.29) and 1.18 (95% CI: 1.00–1.40), respectively.
Conclusion
Diabetes is associated with a small but statistically significant risk of LTBI. Nonetheless, the economic benefit of screening for LTBI in people with DM may be low. In those at high risk of TB infection who underwent a rigorous diagnosis of DM, the association between DM and LTBI may be increased. Our study shows that screening for LTBI in people with diabetes who have high risk factors for TB can help prevent diabetes and TB co-infection.
Self-organization and evolution of function and structure in cultured neuronal networks
Authors: Ballesteros-Esteban L.M. , Leyva I. , Almendral J.A. , Sendiña-Nadal I.
Published: March 2023

Cultured neuronal networks (CNNs) have recently achieved major relevance as an alternative to in vivo models. While many works investigate the evolution of functional connectivity alone, experimental evidence of the simultaneous change of the structural neuronal network substrate is scarce. In the present study, we monitored the coevolution of structural and functional connectivities of neuronal cultures grown on top of microelectrode arrays, in a setup that allows the simultaneous recording of electrophysiological signals and microphotography detailed to the single-link level. During the observed 3 weeks lifespan, initially isolated invertebrate neurons form an ex novo complex circuitry of neuronal aggregates characterized by a small-world topology, with abundant neuronal loops (high clustering) and short distances. At the same time, the observation of synchronization events among electrodes reaches a maximum, coinciding with the spatial percolation of the neuronal network. At this stage, the correlation between the structural and the corresponding functional network is the largest, with around 15% of the physical links relating electrodes that fire synchronously. As the culture matures, this correlation smoothly declines but becomes more significant. Finally, at the local level, we found that the electrodes supporting the most coherent activity, the functional hubs, are not hubs in the physical circuitry but nodes with an average degree. This study demonstrates that functional networks of self-organized neuronal systems are discreet proxies of the underlying structure. It paves the way for future investigations to elucidate the intricate relationship between structure and function in other scenarios mediated by external stimulation.
The structural model of mother-infant bonding in the first pregnancy based on the mother’s attachment style and parenting style: the mediating role of mentalization and shame
Authors: Yazdanimehr Reza , Aflakseir Abdolaziz , Sarafraz Mehdireza , Taghavi Mohammadreza
Published: March 2023

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the mother’s attachment style and parenting style and mother-infant bonding in the first pregnancy considering the mediating role of mentalization and shame.
Methods: This was a descriptive-correlational study. The sample population included the women who had gone through their first pregnancy and were referred to the health centers in Neyshabur, Iran in 2022. In total, 330 women were selected by convenience sampling. To collect data, we used a demographic questionnaire, the Attachment Style Questionnaire, the Parenting Style Questionnaire, the Mother-Infant Bonding Scale, the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire, and the Guilt and Shame Proneness Scale. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive indices, correlation coefficients, and structural equation modeling (SEM).
Results: Overall, the findings showed that the studied model adequately fits the data. Further, the obtained results confirmed the mediating role of mentalization and shame in the relationship between the mother’s attachment style and parenting style and mother-infant bonding. A significant correlation was also observed between attachment styles, parenting styles, and mother-infant bonding (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Mother-infant bonding is correlated with the mother’s attachment style/parenting style, shame, and mentalization. Thus, we can help vulnerable mothers by improving the quality of psychological care before the first pregnancy or during pregnancy.
Application of machine vision based on genetic algorithm in image painting style method and image processing optimization
Authors: Jin Xin
Published: March 2023

In recent years, the research on the non photorealistic painting of watercolor painting through computer algorithms has made rapid progress, and its specific application has also been increasingly valued. This paper proposes a new machine vision method based on genetic algorithm, and applies it to the research of oil painting style and image processing optimization. First of all, it provides a stroke layout method based on machine vision important areas. It analyzes the key areas through face, visual focus analysis and other technologies, and realizes the starting point, angle calculation, accuracy optimization and image quality optimization of pen painting based on the data of this area, thus realizing the function of distinguishing the primary and secondary of oil painting. Secondly, the machine vision method based on genetic algorithm can explore the style characteristics of any oil painting graphics according to the characteristics of oil painting, and create artistic images through this method. The experimental results show that the machine vision method based on genetic algorithm not only has achieved good results in the practical application of oil painting style, but also can optimize the image processing.
Application of expression recognition based on Genetic Algorithm in English distance teaching platform
Authors: Dou Ru
Published: March 2023

In Distance English teaching, teachers cannot take care of every student because of their own limitations. Therefore, more advanced technology is needed to assist teachers in completing teaching. Based on this point, this paper proposes a distance English teaching assistant method based on facial expression recognition technology. First, the distance learning platform collects the image data of students through the camera, preprocesses the captured image, detects and recognizes the skin color, and finally determines the position of the face. Then, based on the theory of genetic algorithm, a model to improve the characteristics of face images is established, and the recognized facial expression images are classified by random forest algorithm, and the facial expression characteristics of students are analyzed according to the five kinds of information of the target, such as attention, suspicion, distraction, excitement and anxiety. This paper adds the design of expression recognition application to the English learning distance platform, collects and summarizes the changes of students' expressions through the mobile terminal, and reports them to the teacher as reference information in the teaching process. The results show that the facial expression recognition module carried on the distance English teaching platform has a relatively accurate recognition rate, can provide some help for English teachers, and is well received by teachers, so it is worth promoting. By studying genetic algorithm and facial expression recognition technology, this paper applies them to the design of English distance teaching platform, which has a certain auxiliary effect on English teachers' teaching behavior.
Technical framework of energy-saving construction management of intelligent building based on computer vision algorithm
Authors: Ma Weini
Published: March 2023

At present, China's urbanization transformation is accelerating, the construction industry is developing rapidly, and people's requirements for buildings are also increasing, which leads to the increasing energy consumption. Therefore, energy-saving construction in the construction industry is imminent. During the actual life cycle of a building project, including planning, design, construction and later operation and maintenance, energy consumption will be generated in the above processes. Based on this background, this research realized the design of intelligent building management and information system for energy conservation projects by introducing computer vision algorithm. The system is integrated with laws and regulations, economic benefits, technical steps, quality management, cost management, schedule management and other modules. The design process is relatively complex. Therefore, this work adopts modern computer vision algorithm technology and uses relevant tools to collect, store Analyze a large amount of information in each stage of energy-saving project management process, and realize information management from project approval, design, drawing review, construction to acceptance. Finally, build system interface layer, system function layer, and database support layer. The system measurement shows that the building energy consumption can be predicted easily, accurately and stably by inputting the energy consumption data collected by each part of the target building. The system realizes the combination of qualitative and quantitative research on energy conservation regulation, and improves the informatization level of China's energy conservation research and construction. This paper designs a kind of intelligent building energy saving management system by studying computer vision algorithm.
Image defogging algorithm and artificial intelligence technology innovation application in digital media image processing
Authors: Dong Liang , Gangyi Ding , Dapeng Yan , Kexiang Huang
Published: March 2023

Contemporary digital media has been promoted under the leadership, for video image capture and processing/using artificial intelligence technology to classify video content and other technologies have been effectively applied. Facing the current era of short video outbreak, image processing technology and digital media technology occupy an important position in the application. Image processing technology can recognize video content through video capture and processing. However, it can be found in the practical application research that many short videos have the problem of low definition, so the captured image is not clear enough, and the recognition and resolution of the image brings some adverse effects. In addition, the algorithms of image to fog of digital media can also play the role of "rescue", for some not to retrieve video and image information, through the image to fog algorithm can fix the problems, and make the image more clear, thus improve the precision of image and recognition, image information acquisition. It can be seen that the combination of image dehazing algorithm and artificial intelligence can more effectively strengthen the image processing of digital media, and facilitate the protection and classification of image data.
SpatialScope: A unified approach for integrating spatial and single-cell transcriptomics data using deep generative models
Authors: Wan Xiaomeng , Xiao Jiashun , Tam Sindy , CAI Mingxuan , Sugimura Rio , Wang Yang , Wan Xiang , Lin Zhixiang , Wu Angela , Yang Can
Published: March 2023

The rapid emergence of spatial transcriptomics (ST) technologies is revolutionizing our understanding of tissue spatial architecture and their biology. Current ST technologies based on either next generation sequencing (seq-based approaches) or fluorescence in situ hybridization (image-based approaches), while providing hugely informative insights, remain unable to provide spatial characterization at transcriptome-wide single-cell resolution, limiting their usage in resolving detailed tissue structure and detecting cellular communications. To overcome these limitations, we developed SpatialScope, a unified approach to integrating scRNA-seq reference data and ST data that leverages deep generative models. With innovation in model and algorithm designs, SpatialScope not only enhances seq-based ST data to achieve single-cell resolution, but also accurately infers transcriptome-wide expression levels for image-based ST data. We demonstrate the utility of SpatialScope through comprehensive simulation studies and then apply it to real data from both seq-based and image-based ST approaches. SpatialScope provides a spatial characterization of tissue structures at transcriptome-wide single-cell resolution, greatly facilitating the downstream analysis of ST data, such as detection of cellular communication by identifying ligand-receptor interactions from seq-based ST data, localization of cellular subtypes, and detection of spatially differently expressed genes.
Forecasting and Tracking Volcanic Explosions using Shannon Entropy at Volcán de Colima.
Authors: Rey-Devesa Pablo , Prudencio Janire , Benítez Carmen , Bretón Mauricio , Plasencia Imelda , León Zoraida , Ortigosa Félix , Gutiérrez Ligdamis , Arámbula-Mendoza Raúl , Ibáñez Jesús M.
Published: March 2023

In this work we demonstrate that Shannon Entropy (SE) calculated on continuous seismic signals can be used efficiently in a volcanic monitoring system. We analysed three years of volcanic activity of Volcán de Colima, México, recorded between January 2015 and May 2017. This period includes two large explosions, with pyroclastic and lava flows, and intense activity of less energetic explosion, culminating with a period of quiescence. In order to confirm the success of our results, we used images of the Visual Monitoring system of Colima Volcano Observatory. Another of the objectives of this work is to show how the decrease in the SE values can be used to track minor explosive activity, helping Machine Learning algorithms to work more efficiently in the complex problem of distinguishing the explosion signals in the seismograms. We demonstrated the two big eruptions selected were forecasted successfully (6 and 2 days respectively) using the decay of the SE. We conclude that the SE could be used as a complementary tool in seismic volcano monitoring, showing its successful behaviour prior to energetic eruptions, giving time enough to alert the population and prepare for the consequences of an imminent and well predicted moment of the eruption.
The Effect of the Electrical Machine Components on Electromagnetic Wave Propagation in Rotor Temperature Monitoring System
Authors: Sonia Ben Brahim , Samia Dardouri , Amor Hammami , Ridha Bouallegue , Jacques David , Hoa Vuong Tan
Published: March 2023

The metallic parts of an electrical machine greatly impact the transmission of electromagnetic waves between a shaft sensor and an external receiver. A Rotor Temperature Monitoring System (RTMS) aims to enhance power transfer in open space without considering the influence of electrical machine body into account. Therefore, in this paper, an evaluation of the electrical machine bodies effect on shaft sensor transmission and propagation is realized. These effects is related to receiver antenna packaging requirements. A comparative study between two antennas is presented in this article to see which one gives a larger propagation factor using HFSS.
Vulnerability and resilience to drought and saltwater intrusion of rice farming households in the Mekong delta, Vietnam
Authors: Aalst M.A. van , Koomen Eric , de Groot H.L.F.
Published: March 2023

Adverse impacts of climate and environmental hazards are unevenly distributed between socioeconomic groups due to differences in exposure, vulnerability and resilience. This study examines the distribution of vulnerability and resilience to drought and salt intrusion impacts among rice farmers in the rural Mekong Deltain Vietnam. By defining both aspects independently, we can study potential differences in the socio-economic factors that steer them and analyse how these two aspects of adaptive capacity are related. Using fixed-effect regressions, we find that poorer communes are more vulnerable to direct environmental impacts (loss in rice yield). Several household characteristics that reflect a low socioeconomic status, such as low asset values, small plots, and limited education level, are also linked with higher vulnerability to direct drought impacts. High vulnerability does, however, not necessarily translate to low resilience, which we proxy by measuring indirectimpacts (loss in household income). Several household activities and characteristics help mitigate direct impacts. Our results suggest that the least resilient household group consists of smallholder, asset-low households that are unable to diversify to non-crop agriculture or off-farm employment. Supportive policies targeting this particular socioeconomic group to enable transition to non-crop or off-farm labour would substantially improve their resilience to future environmental events. Distinguishing between resilience and vulnerability enables a broader understanding of the mechanisms influencing the distribution of direct and indirect adverse impacts, which enables drafting targeted policy measures for specific socioeconomic groups.
Less-known leafy vegetable “Lapha” (Malva L.; family Malvaceae) in India and study on genetic resources
Authors: Malav Pavan kumar , Pandey Anjula , Pamarthi Ravi Kishore , Bhatt Kailash Chandra , Nivedhitha S , Pradheep K , Singh Kartar , Ahlawat Sudhir Pal
Published: March 2023

During survey, exploration and germplasm collection in parts of Eastern India and National Capital Region of Delhi, mainly Haryana state of India, the authors came to know that two species of Malva locally known as ‘‘lapha’’ being used as a green leafy vegetable in the surveyed areas. Published literature refers same local name and use of Malva parviflora. The critical morphological study of the taxa has delineated two taxa as Malva parviflora L and M. verticillata L, former is a weed of wastelands whereas the latter is grown as vegetable in some parts of Assam, Bihar and West Bengal. M. verticillata is preferred most by locals due to its easy-to-cultivate nature and having high nutritive/therapeutic value, which indicates it’s potential to cultivate during the lean period in those areas where few greens are grown. In the present paper, detailed study on botanical characters, range of distribution and method of utilization of both the taxa in the Indian region has been discussed. The current studies further demonstrated that allied species with similar use and taste are identified as a substitute.
Zaxinone Mimics (MiZax) Efficiently Promote Growth and Production of Potato and Strawberry Plants under Desert Climate Conditions
Authors: Wang Jian You , Jamil Muhammad , AlOtaibi Turki S. , Abdelaziz Mohamed E. , Ota Tsuyoshi , Ibrahim Omer H. , Berqdar Lamis , Asami Tadao , Mousa Magdi Ali Ahmed , Al-Babili Salim
Published: March 2023

Climate changes and the rapid expanding human population have become critical concerns for global food security. One of the promising solutions is the employment of plant growth regulators (PGRs) for increasing crop yield and overcoming adverse growth conditions, such as desert climate. Recently, the apocarotenoid zaxinone and its two mimics (MiZax3 and MiZax5) have shown a promising growth-promoting activity in cereals and vegetable crops under greenhouse and field conditions. Herein, we further investigated the effect of MiZax3 and MiZax5, at different concentrations, on the growth and yield of the two valuable vegetable crops, potato and strawberry, in the Kingdom of Saudi of Arabia. Application of both MiZax significantly increased plant agronomic traits, yield components and total yield, in five independent field trials from 2021 to 2022. Hence, our results indicate that MiZax are very promising PGRs that can be applied to promote the growth and yield of vegetable crops even under desert conditions and at relatively low concentrations.
3D-real-world pointing test for spatial orientation: influences of sex and cognitive impairment on the shape configuration of mental target representation
Authors: Gerb Johannes , Brandt Thomas , Dieterich Marianne
Published: March 2023

Background
Deficits in spatial memory are often early signs of neurological disorders. Here, we analyzed the geometrical configuration of 2D-projections of pointing performances to a memorized array of spatially distributed targets with respect to gender differences in healthy participants and patients with cognitive impairment.
Methods
56 right-handed healthy participants (28 female, mean age 48.89 ± 19.35 years) and 22 right-handed patients with cognitive impairment (12 female, mean age 71.73 ± 7.41 years) underwent a previously validated 3D-real-world pointing test (3D-RWPT). Participants were shown a 9-dot target matrix and afterwards asked to point towards each target with closed eyes in different body positions relative to the matrix. Two-dimensional projections of these pointing vectors were then quantified using morphological analyses.
Results
Shape configurations in healthy volunteers largely reflected the real-world target pattern with gender-dependent differences (ANCOVA area difference male/female = 38350.43, pbonf=3.69x10− 3**). Patients with cognitive impairment showed impaired rectangularity and made more large-scale errors, resulting in decreased overall average diameters and solidity (ANCOVA diameter difference normal cognition/cognitive impairment = 31.22, pbonf=3.19x10− 3**; solidity difference = 0.07, pbonf=6.76x10− 3**).
Conclusion
Shape configuration analysis of the 3D-RWPT target set by morphological properties appears to be a suitable holistic measure of spatial performance, differentiating sex effects and cognitive impairment when analyzed by group- and paradigm-wise averages.
Predicting object properties based on movement kinematics
Authors: Kopnarski Lena , Lippert Laura , Rudisch Julian , Voelcker-Rehage Claudia
Published: March 2023

In order to grasp and transport an object, grip and load forces must be scaled according to the object's properties (such as weight). To select the appropriate grip and load forces, the object weight is estimated based on experience or, in the case of robots, usually use image recognition. We propose a new approach that makes a robot's weight estimation less dependent on prior learning and, thereby, allows it to successfully grasp a wider variety of objects. This study evaluates whether it is feasible to predict an object's weight in a replacement task based on the time series of upper body angles of the active arm. Furthermore, we wanted to investigate how prediction accuracy is affected by (i) the length of the time series and (ii) different cross-validation (CV) procedures. To this end, we recorded and analyzed the movement kinematics of twelve participants during a replacement task. The participants' kinematics were recorded by an optical motion tracking system while transporting an object, 80 times in total from varying starting positions to a predefined end position on a table. The object's weight was modified (made lighter and heavier) without changing the object's visual appearance. Throughout the experiment, the object's weight was randomly changed without the participant's knowledge. To predict the object's weight, we used a discrete cosine transform to smooth and compress the upper body angles and a support vector machine for supervised learning from the achieved discrete cosine transform parameters. Results showed good prediction accuracy (78.5 - 92.7 %, depending on the CV procedure and the length of the time series). Even at the beginning of a movement (after only 300 ms), we were able to predict the object weight reliably (within a classification rate of 79.5 - 88.3 %).
Mutational Stability Profiling and Functional Analysis of Spike Protein in Indian Sars Cov-2 Delta Variants: an in Silico Analysis
Authors: Paul Prisho Mariam , Parthasarathy Krupakar , Rao Sudhanarayani S , Sounderrajan Vignesh , Sunkar Swetha
Published: March 2023

Context
Globally Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS CoV-2) is the most influential pandemic which affects the human respiratory system. The severity of the disease depends on the interaction between the viral protein and host protein. Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 interacts with host ACE2 receptor in the presence of TMPRSS serine protease through C-Terminal Domain (CTD). In this research, we studied the effect of mutation on the S-protein stability and functional analysis based on the sequence of SARS CoV-2 delta Indian variants by in silico prediction. Sequences were retrieved from the database and studied mutation and evolutionary relationships. The protein stability is analyzed by predicting intrinsic disorder and I-Mutant v2.0 bioinformatics tool. The functional study of S-protein was conducted using SMART, Protparam, NetPhos, and NetNGlyc. In addition to this analysed the stability of RBD region after mutation.
Methods
This study explains the effect of mutation on spike proteins and its evolutionary relationship, which is used for the better understanding of SARS CoV-2 variation and diversification. The changes in spike protein promote the evolution of the virus. In the future, a complete analysis of delta variant S protein contributes to effective targeted therapeutic measures.
The cutting performance of saw blades with textured structures on the rake face, main and secondary flank face
Authors: Lu Yang , Deng Jianxin , Zhang Zhihui , Bao Yichen , Tian Runzhou
Published: March 2023

In order to explore the influence of textured sawteeth on saw blades cutting and wear performance, linear micro textures perpendicular to the chip flow direction were fabricated on the rake face, main flank face and secondary flank face by laser machining, respectively. The cutting tests were carried out on sawing platform by different cutting speed, and the cutting forces, noise, temperatures, machined surface quality and sawteeth wear were studied. The results indicated that textures fabricated on the secondary flank face can effectively reduce friction with the machined surface and improve the surface quality, and the roughness Ra was decreased about 2.5% ~ 12.5% compared with traditional saw blade. The improvement of saw blades cutting performance by preparing micro textures on the main flank face was greater than the textures fabricated on the rake face. Due to the synergistic action of textures at different cutting faces, the cutting force, noise and temperature of saw blades with textures prepared on all cutting surfaces was the lowest. The main wear forms of sawteeth were tip wear, surface adhesion wear and oxidation wear. Although the derivative cutting phenomenon was occurred, the micro textures were not filled completely, it signified that the micro textures still played the role of stored cutting fluids, reduced contact area and formed lubrication film.
Intra- vs. inter-host evolution of SARS-CoV-2 driven by uncorrelated selection - The evolution thwarted
Authors: Hou Mei , Shi Jingrong , Gong Zanke , Wen Haijun , Lan Yun , Deng Xizi , Fan Qinghong , Li Jiaojiao , Jiang Mengling , Tang Xiaoping , Wu Chung-I , Li Feng , Ruan Yongsen
Published: March 2023

In viral evolution, a new mutation has to proliferate within the host (Stage I) in order to be transmitted and then compete in the host population (Stage II). We now analyze the intra-host single nucleotide variants (iSNVs) in a set of 79 SARS-CoV-2 infected patients with most transmissions tracked. Here, every mutation has two measures: i) iSNV frequency within each individual host in Stage I; ii) occurrence among individuals ranging from 1 (private), 2-78 (public) to 79 (global) occurrences in Stage II. In Stage I, a small fraction of non-synonymous iSNVs are sufficiently advantageous to rise to a high frequency, often 100%. However, such iSNVs usually fail to become public mutations. Thus, the selective forces in the two stages of evolution are uncorrelated and, possibly, antagonistic. For that reason, successful mutants, including many VOCs (variants of concern), have to avoid being eliminated in Stage I when they first emerge. As a result, they may not have the transmission advantage to outcompete the dominant strains and, hence, are rare in the host population. Few of them could manage to slowly accumulate advantageous mutations to compete in Stage II. When they do, they would appear suddenly as in each of the 6 successive waves of SARS-CoV-2 strains. In conclusion, Stage I evolution, the gate-keeper, may contravene the long-term viral evolution and should be heeded in viral studies.
Different responses of taxonomic diversity and functional diversity to environmental changes: A case study of fish communities in the Zhoushan Fishing Ground, China
Authors: Li Yuru , Wang Jing , Ju Peilong , Zhang Chang , Liu Baogui , Wang Yingbin
Published: March 2023

The resilience and responses of fish communities to environmental stressors have been evidenced to associated with the community structure of fish such as fish biodiversity. What remains unknown, however, is that whether different components of biodiversity responds to environmental changes consistently or differently. Traditional researches about biodiversity and its environmental drivers were mostly based on taxonomic level, and often ignored functional traits of fishes. In this study, we investigated the seasonal patterns of fish biodiversity and their environmental drivers. Biodiversity indices were measured by species abundance and functional traits data, respectively and named taxonomic diversity (TD) and functional diversity (FD), respectively. Our results showed significant difference of fish biodiversity indices at least between two seasons with exception for functional evenness (FEve). Compared with TD, FD showed more changeable along season. Both TD and FD were significantly related to several environmental variables at least in one season, and the response of them to environmental changes were different. In addition, environmental variables played important roles in shaped fish community structure in the study area with eight environmental variables (i.e., salinity, temperature, nitrite, DP, IN, TN, silicate, and PO43-) significantly related to taxonomic structure and three variables (i.e., AN, TD, and COD) significantly related to functional structure. These findings provide evidence that trait-based approach is necessary when assess the responses of fish communities to environmental changes.
Real-Time Task Scheduling Using Hybrid Multi-objective Crow Search Algorithm
Authors: Subbaraj Saroja , Rengaraj Madavan , Sikkandar Haseena
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a Multi-objective Crow Search Algorithm (MOCSA) based task scheduling approach for determining optimal solutions with simultaneous optimization of finish time (F), tardiness (T) and energy consumption (E). The proposed algorithm solves real-time task scheduling problem in heterogeneous multi-processor systems by adopting novel crow search algorithm to solve the discrete optimization problem. The three different multiple objectives with different magnitudes are fused using a weighted product method. Our methodology enables the user to choose the solution that best suits their needs. Experimental results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm in achieving all the three objectives: minimizing finish time, tardiness and energy consumption.
Proof of Concept Evaluation of a Novel Eyelid-Warming Device in Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Authors: Arazi Mattan , Lemanski Michael , Belkin Michael , Landau-Prat Daphna
Published: March 2023

Purpose
to evaluate a novel eyelid warming and neuro-stimulating device, Hydro-Eye, that delivers heat via low-level infrared radiation on the eyelids of patients with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Methods
Prospective interventional study. Patients with MGD were recruited at a single medical center. Main outcome measures included changes in tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer’s test, and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), overall satisfaction, as well as corneal signs of dry eye. Patients were instructed to use the device twice daily for 5 minutes on each eye, for a total of 14 days. Follow-up assessments were performed after the two-week treatment.
Results
A total of 10 patients were included, mean age was 67 ± 16 years, including six males (60%). Changes in pre- vs. post-treatment TBUT (5.0 to 6.11), OSDI (28.1 to 23.9), and Schirmer score (8.67 to 7.11) were not statistically significant. Over a course of 243 treatments, 131 (54%) demonstrated improvement in symptoms, 40% no change, and 6% worsening of symptoms. General satisfaction was observed overall in 80% of the patients. No adverse events were observed.
Conclusion
In this first study of a novel eyelid warming device, overall subjective satisfaction was reported in 80% of the patients, with no adverse events. Potential advantages of this user-friendly device include its ability to improve MGD and improving tear film stability, as well as symptomatic relief, while allowing the user to continue with normal daily functioning while undergoing treatment.
Soil properties variation in a small-scale altitudinal gradient of an evergreen foothills forest, Ecuadorian Amazon Region
Authors: Bravo-Medina Carlos , Torres-Navarrete Bolier , Arteaga-Crespo Yasiel , Garcia-Quintana Yudel , Reyes-Morán Héctor , Changoluisa-Rivadeneira Daysi , Paguay-Sayay Daniel
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate variation in the soil physical and chemical properties in a small-scale elevation gradient at 601 to 1000 m above sea level (m.a.s.l) in an Evergreen Andean-Amazonian forest. The soil sampling was divided into four elevation zones, establishing five permanent monitoring plots (PMP) for each one, where soil physical and chemical properties were determined at depths of 0-10 cm and 10-30 cm. For the altitudinal soil-gradient relationship analysis, multivariate statistical methods were used. The results suggest that some soil properties - such as bulk density (BD), saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat), total porosity (TP), soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), available phosphorus (P), potassium (K+) and exchangeable calcium (Ca2+) were significantly affected by altitude. Soil pH, Al3+ and exchangeable acidity did not follow any defined pattern with respect to the altitudinal gradients. SOM, TN, Ca2+, Ksat, TP and retention porosity (RP) exhibited an increase according to altitudinal gradient, whereas soil bulk density, K+ and P showed an inverse behavior, with higher values at the lower elevation gradient. The principal components analysis (PCA) and the redundancy component analysis (RDA) also revealed a clear separation of soil properties among altitudinal gradient and confirmed that these variables were necessary in order to explain variation in the soil physical and chemical properties as an elevation gradient function.
Study of Forward and Backward Scattering in Two-Region Milne Problem for Non-Absorbing Medium Using a Synthetic Kernel
Authors: Garbiea Dalia A. , El-depsy Alia , Selim Mustafa M. , Mohamedien Osama A.
Published: March 2023

In this work, the effect of an extremely anisotropic scattering function on the two-region Milne problem is studied. This scattering function divides the neutrons resulting from the collisions into three parts; part (í µí±) which moves backward, part (m) which moves forward, and part (n) which emerge isotropically from the collisions, where í µí±+m+n=1. The integral version of the transport equation is solved using trial functions based on Case’s eigenmodes and exponential integral function. Hence, the solution to the Milne problem is formulated in terms of characteristic quantities such as the extrapolation length and the fractional scalar flux discontinuity. Numerical results for the analytically evaluated quantities are presented. Some of our numerical results are compared with the available published results.
Predicting the early incidence and stratification of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) using alveolar-arterial oxygen partial pressure difference (AaDO2): A retrospective study from the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Ngan Chansokhon , Lia Thongher , Wang Mingchun , Zeng Xueying , Li Li , Qu Jianmin , Yin Wanhong , Kang Yan
Published: March 2023

Purpose:
To investigate the feasibility of alveolar-arterial oxygen partial pressure difference (AaDO2) for early warning and prediction of severity in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Methods:
This retrospective cohort study is based on the MIMIC-IV database. In this study, both patients without and with ARDS were included. The AaDO2 value was calculated by blood gas analysis and ventilation parameters from the first day to the seventh day of the patient's admission to the ICU, and the most sensitive AaDO2 value was found by comparing the different days with the AUC curve. The Youden index was used to calculate the best threshold for predicting the incidence of ARDS. AUC curve was drawn to analyze the cutoff value of AaDO2 value for predicting mild, moderate, and severe ARDS, as well as the difference. Logistic regression analysis, lowess smoothing, and restricted cubic spline model were used to predict the association between AaDO2 and the incidence of ARDS.
Results:
The study included 2640 patients, of whom 1817 had no ARDS and 823 had ARDS (401 mild, 377 moderate, and 55 severe). Our study found that the earliest time point at which AaDO2 predicted the incidence of ARDS was on day 2 of ICU admission AUC was 0.815, 95% CI (0.80-0.83) with a cut-off value of 170.477 mmHg. AaDO2 on day 2 predicted mild ARDS: AUC was 0.748, 95% CI (0.727-0.769) with a cut-off value of 136.169 mmHg; AaDO2 on day 2 predicted moderate ARDS: AUC of 0.872, 95% CI (0.856-0.888), cut-off value 196.037 mmHg; AaDO2 on day 2 predicted severe ARDS: AUC of 0.932, 95% CI (0.907-0.956), cut-off value 233.896 mmHg, linear Correlation analysis found a negative correlation between AaDO2 and PaO2/FiO2 (R=0.55, R2=0.252, P<001). In addition, logistic regression analysis, Lowess smoothing, and Restricted cubic spline model analysis showed a correlation between elevated AaDO2 and poor outcome.
Conclusion:
AaDO2 might be utilized to predict the incidence of ARDS as well as to stratify the severity of ARDS.
Partial regularity of minimizers for double phase functionals with variable exponents
Authors: Tachikawa Atsushi
Published: March 2023

The aim of this article is to study partial regularity of a minimizer u: Ω ⊂ Rn → RN for a double phase functional with variable exponents: ∫ (||Du||Ap(x) + a(x) ||Du||Aq(x)) dx, where || . || stands for the norm deduced from a positive definite sufficiently continuoustensor field A:=(Aijαβ(x,u)) ( (x,u) ∈ Ω × RN). We show that a minimizer u is in the class C1,γ(Ω1;RN ) for some constant γ ∈ (0,1) and open subset Ω1 ⊂ Ω . We obtain also an estimate for the Hausdorff dimension of Ω \ Ω1.
MSC Classification: 35J20 , 35J47 , 35J60 , 49N60
Application of Metagenomics for Diagnosis of Broilers Displaying Neurological Symptoms
Authors: Kim Hyeon-Su , Kim Si-Hyeon , Song Hye-Soon , Kwon Yong-Kuk , Park Choi-Kyu , Kim Hye-Ryoung
Published: March 2023

Background: Thirty-two-day-old broiler chickens at a farm located in northwestern South Korea displayed adverse neurological symptoms including limping, lying down, and head shaking. Approximately 2.1% of chickens died or were culled due to severe symptoms. Five carcasses were submitted to the Avian Disease Division of the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) for disease diagnosis.
Results: Broilers displayed severe pericarditis and perihepatitis associated with gross lesions. Broilers also displayed microscopic lesions in the cerebrum and in the granular layer of the cerebellum, which were associated with multifocal perivascular cuffing and purulent necrosis in the cerebrum, and severe meningitis with heterophil and lymphocyte infiltration. Staphylococcus spp. were identified in the liver and heart using bacteriological culture. PCR/RT-PCR assays revealed that broilers were negative for avian Clostridium botulinum, Newcastle disease virus, and avian encephalomyelitis virus. Bacterial and viral metagenomic analysis of brain samples revealed the presence of Pseudomonas spp. and Marek’s disease virus, which are known etiological agents of chicken meningoencephalitis.
Conclusions: This study reports a diagnostic analysis of gross and histopathological lesions from 32-day-old broilers displaying unique neurological symptoms that revealed the presence of the several neurological diseases including meningoencephalitis.
Meta-analysis of the Diagnostic Value of Circulating miRNAs for the Diagnosis of Benign and Malignant Lung Nodules
Authors: Hong Ziqiang , Cui Baiqiang , Bai Xiangdou , Li Hongchao , Cheng Tao , Sheng Yannan , Lu Yingjie , Wu Xusheng , Jin Dacheng , Zhao Jing , Gou Yunjiu
Published: March 2023

Objective
A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the impact of miRNAs in circulation on diagnosing benign and malignant pulmonary nodules (BPNs and MPNs).
Methods
Electronic databases such as Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library were utilized for diagnostic tests of circulating miRNAs to diagnose BPNs and MPNs from the library creation to February 2023. Meta-analysis of the included literature was performed using Stata 16, Meta-Disc 1.4, and Review Manager 5.4 software. This study determined the combined sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic ratio (DOR), positive/negative likelihood ratios (PLR/NLR), as well as value of area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.
Results
This meta-analysis included 14 publications and 17 studies. According to our findings, the pooled sensitivity for miRNA in diagnosing benign and malignant pulmonary nodules was 0.82 [95% CI (0.74, 0.88)], specificity was 0.84 [95% CI (0.79, 0.88)], whereas the DOR was 22.69 [95% CI (13.87, 37.13)], PLR was 5.00 [95% CI (3.87, 6.46)], NLR was 0.22 [95% CI (0.15, 0.32)], and an area under the subject working characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.89 [95% CI (0.86, 0.91)].
Conclusion
Circulating miRNAs could be used with sensitivity, specificity, DOR, PLR, NLR, and AUC as biomarkers to diagnose pulmonary nodules (PNs). However, because of the significant heterogeneity of the studies included, more research is needed to determine the optimum miRNA combinations for diagnosing PNs.
Ursolic acid promotes autophagy by inhibiting Akt/mTOR and TNF-α/TNFR1 signaling pathways to alleviate pyroptosis and necroptosis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected macrophages
Authors: Shen Jingjing , Fu Yan , Liu Fanglin , Ning Bangzuo , Jiang Xin
Published: March 2023

As a lethal infectious disease, tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Its complex pathophysiological process limits the effectiveness of many clinical treatments. By regulating host cell death, Mtb manipulates macrophages, the first line of defense against invading pathogens, to evade host immunity and promote the spread of bacteria and intracellular inflammatory substances to neighboring cells, resulting in widespread chronic inflammation and persistent lung damage. Autophagy, a metabolic pathway by which cells protect themselves, has been shown to fight intracellular microorganisms, such as Mtb, and they also play a crucial role in regulating cell survival and death. Therefore, host-directed therapy (HDT) based on antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory interventions is a pivotal adjunct to current TB treatment, enhancing anti-TB efficacy. In the present study, we showed that a secondary plant metabolite, ursolic acid (UA), inhibited Mtb-induced pyroptosis and necroptosis of macrophages. In addition, UA induced macrophage autophagy and enhanced intracellular killing of Mtb. To investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms, we explored the signaling pathways associated with autophagy as well as cell death. The results showed that UA could synergistically inhibit the Akt/mTOR and TNF-α/TNFR1 signaling pathways and promote autophagy, thus achieving its regulatory effects on pyroptosis and necroptosis of macrophages. Collectively, UA could be a potential adjuvant drug for host-targeted anti-TB therapy, as it could effectively inhibit pyroptosis and necroptosis of macrophages and counteract the excessive inflammatory response caused by Mtb-infected macrophages via modulating the host immune response, potentially improving clinical outcomes.