bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minute Concentrations of Imidacloprid Pesticide under Short Term Experimental Conditions to Oreochromis niloticus (Gift Tilapia) Significantly Alters Physiological and Histogical Parameters
Authors: Munawar Noshaba , Ashraf Muhammad Ahsan , Umar Ali , . Muaz , Latif Muhammad , Ullah Hayat , Khan Muhammad Saleem , Iqbal Rashid , Sarfraz Maliha
Published: November 2024

Imidacloprid is the most extensively used insecticide against agricultural insect pests in recent times; unfortunately, their excessive use has some detrimental effect to non-target organism such as fish and ultimately humans. In this research work Oreochromis niloticus (Gift Tilapia) was exposed to very low sublethal concentration of imidacloprid for 2,4, 8 and 16-days experimental conditions. Exposure of 6.5mm/L a low dose of imidacloprid can also have the ability to elicit some serious impairment in metabolism, morphological, Hematological, physiological, structural, biochemical and abnormal behavioral responses.  Hematological changes lead to alteration in the normal hematological profile with a significant reduction in the level of erythrocytes, Hemoglobin, mean cell Hemoglobin concentration, leucocytes, Packed cell volume value and platelets moreover increase in Mean cell Volume (MCV) and MCH in experimental group. Biochemical analysis showed the increase in serum aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and hypercholesterolemia.  The findings suggested that the prolonged exposure of very low dose of imidacloprid also have the potential to alter the histology of liver and heart, and blood serum biochemical parameters by exerting some serious metabolic distress to fish.
Isolation, Identification and Antibiotic Susceptibility of Pathogenic Microorganisms from Fresh Fruit Juices
Authors: Shaheen Amna , Kausar Faiza , Afzal Wajiha , Azam Bisma , Zafar Lubna
Published: November 2024

Fruit juices have antioxidant properties. Sugar, minerals, phenolic, and vitamins are the main components of fresh fruit juices. However, when fresh juices are processed and harvested into vended forms for sale, hygienic procedures are neglected. Due to unhygienic conditions, foodborne illnesses occur among people. The present study aimed to isolate, identify, and evaluate the microbiological quality of the different fruit juices produced from the local streets and canteens of Faisalabad. A total of 120 fresh fruit samples were analyzed for the presence of bacterial pathogens. The highest percentage of bacteria in juices was Escherichia coli (23.8%), Staphylococcus aureus (9.7%), Klebsiella spp. (13.6%), Salmonella spp. (8%), Proteus spp. (8%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (23.4%) and Shigella spp. (13.1%). The highest bacterial count was observed in sugar cane juice (5.75 ± 1.50 log CFU/mL) and the lowest in lemon juice (4.09 ± 3.54 log CFU/mL). The contamination is mainly due to unhygienic conditions as well as poor quality of water used for dilution related to washing of utensils, domestic hygiene, peeling of fruits much earlier before processing, poor personal and contaminated water, and ice, in shops located in crowded places. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria cause serious bacterial infections. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and E. coli were resistant to piperacilin, chloramphenicol, gentamycin, and tobramycin. There should be regular monitoring of street vended fresh juices to check the quality of juices regularly. This would help to avoid any future pathogenic infection.  These findings demonstrated that the fresh juice sample’s quality was unsatisfactory and inappropriate to consume. Consequently, these findings will help local consumers become more knowledgeable in addition to the researchers. It is recommended that street juice vendors adopt proper hygiene protocols and get appropriate training on food safety, sanitation, and microbial quality.
FACTORS INFLUENCING FINANCIAL INVESTMENT OF CHINESE MIDDLE-INCOME FAMILIES, KUNMING, YUNNAN
Authors: Zhao Jie , Pimchangthong Daranee
Published: November 2024

This study aims to examine the relationship between demographic characteristics and various financial investment products and explore risk preferences' influence on financial investment decisions among middle-income families in Kunming. Data were collected through a survey of 400 financial investors. The statistics used to analyze the data were descriptive statistics, including frequencies, means, and standard deviations, and inferential statistics, including the independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, LSD, and multiple linear regression. The findings indicate that the age difference, total household assets, household debt types, and household debt expense significantly affect financial investment decisions differently. At the same time, gender and educational background do not have significantly different effects. Risk preference significantly influences the choice of financial investments, with risk-averse investors negatively influencing all investment types. In contrast, risk-seeking and risk-neutral investors exhibit positive influences. This study provides contemporary insights into how the post-pandemic era has reshaped financial decision-making processes, offering interpretations of risk preferences and financial investment recommendations for investors in Kunming.
Role of albumin and prealbumin in assessing nutritional status and predicting increased risk of infectious complications during childhood cancer treatment
Authors: Milaniuk Anna , Drabko Katarzyna , Chojęta Agnieszka
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Proper nutrition in patients with cancer is important for preventing treatment complications and achieving remission. Malnutrition in these patients leads to reduced production of essential structural proteins.

Purpose

The aim of the study was to assess the role of albumin and prealbumin in assessing the nutritional status of cancer patients and in predicting an increased risk of infectious complications during treatment.

Patients and Methods

The study included 40 pediatric patients with newly diagnosed cancer and 30 healthy children serving as controls. Prealbumin, albumin, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the upper arm muscle area (UAMA) were measured before and after treatment in children with cancer and compared with the control group to evaluate nutritional status. Additionally, we assessed associations between these parameters and the incidence of infectious complications during cancer treatment in patients with anthropometric malnutrition, as well as associations with an increased risk of malnutrition related to inflammation before treatment.

Results

At baseline, patients with cancer had lower prealbumin and albumin levels (p< 0.001), higher CRP levels (p < 0.001), and lower UAMA percentiles (p = 0.0245) compared with controls. Cancer treatment resulted in an increase in prealbumin and albumin levels (p < 0.001) and a reduction in CRP levels (p < 0.001), with no change in UAMA (p = 1.000). Prealbumin deficiency was more common than albumin deficiency before and after cancer treatment. Median prealbumin and albumin levels tended to increase with an increasing UAMA percentile range, but these differences were not significant (p> 0.05). The incidence of infectious complications during treatment in patients with risk factors for inflammation-related malnutrition was similar to that in patients with pre-existing anthropometric malnutrition without inflammation (p = 1.000). In a univariable logistic regression model including prealbumin and albumin deficiency, as well as low UAMA percentile, albumin deficiency before treatment was shown to be a significant predictor of 3 or more infectious episodes during treatment (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Albumin and prealbumin deficiency may predict the risk of malnutrition associated with inflammation in patients with cancer. Hypoalbuminemia may predict an unfavorable course of treatment complicated by frequent infections in these patients.
Pregnancy influences on the rumen environment of Angus heifers differing in feed efficiency
Authors: Martin M. Gabbi , Henniger Madison T. , Clemmons Brooke A. , Ault-Seay Taylor B. , Cordero Juan F. , Voy Brynn H. , McLean Kyle J. , Mulon Pierre-Yves , Anderson David E. , Myer Phillip R.
Published: November 2024

With an expected increase in population by 2050, the demand for high-quality protein for human consumption will increase. To improve the sustainability of US cattle production, producers and researchers have historically focused on improving the feed efficiency of steers through improvements in genetics, nutrition, and microbiome management, producing a more marketable beef product. However, without a successful pregnancy, there would be no marketable animal to feed. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of pregnancy on the rumen environment, microbial communities, and the correlation to feed efficiency status in Angus heifers. Utilizing 17 cannulated Angus heifers, feed efficiency status was determined using the GrowSafe 8000 feed intake monitoring system to monitor feed intake for a 70d trial period to calculate residual feed intake. Following the trial, heifers were bred and 40mL rumen fluid and content samples were collected every two weeks during gestation. Metagenomic DNA was extracted from the rumen samples, sequencing libraries were prepared targeting the bacterial V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene, and resultant libraries were sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq. All microbial analyses were conducted in the R environment v2.6.2 where alpha diversity, beta diversity, and differential abundances were determined. Metabolites were identified using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography high resolution mass spectrometry, and Metabolomic Analysis and Visualization Engine was used to select metabolite peaks. Differential abundance analyses using “ANCOMBC” indicated 10 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), assigned to seven Prevotella and three Succiniclasticum, significantly varied among weeks of gestation (P<0.05). Based on a one-way ANOVA, 90 metabolites were determined significant throughout pregnancy (P<0.05). The 10 metabolites with the highest variable importance of projection scores from a partial least squares discriminant analysis were used to calculate correlations between. Of the 10 ASVs and 10 metabolites, significant correlations with feed efficiency status were found at various time points (P<0.05). The rumen microbiome and its fermentative profile were different at various time points during pregnancy with several correlations to feed efficiency status. Identifying pregnancy-related microbial and metabolite changes may aid producers to anticipate nutritional or management adjustments, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of beef production.
Dynamic response analysis of concrete filled steel tube tied arch bridge on a slab foundation under moving train load
Authors: Zou Yongnian , Liu Zhidong , Tian Changjin , Zhang Xiaoning , Liu Bo
Published: November 2024

The analysis of bridge vibration response under train loads is crucial for the operational safety of railway bridge structures. In this study, a three-dimensional coupled dynamic model of train-track-truss arch bridge is established. Based on the numerical simulation results, the effects of different train axle loads and speeds on the vibration response of the truss arch bridge are analyzed, and the time-history changes of the displacement and stress at critical sections of the bridge are revealed. The results show that: during the train operation, the maximum vertical dynamic stress and maximum vertical displacement are linearly related to the train axle load and speed. The greater the train axle load and speed, the larger the maximum vertical dynamic stress and maximum vertical displacement. The maximum vertical acceleration generated during train operation increases linearly with train speed and exponentially with train axle load. The most unfavorable section occurs at the mid-span of the bridge, where the maximum vertical displacement, maximum vertical dynamic stress, and maximum vertical acceleration are all at their peak. This research has significant implications for engineering safety and operation.
Evaluation of mesenchymal stem cells as an in vitro model for inherited retinal diseases
Authors: Dodina Maria , Gurtsieva Dzerassa , Karabelsky Alexander , Minskaia Ekaterina
Published: November 2024

Retinal pathologies are major causes of vision impairment and blindness in humans, and inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), such as retinitis pigmentosa, Leber congenital amaurosis, and Stargardt disease, greatly contribute to this problem. In vitro disease modeling can be used for understanding the development of pathology and for screening therapeutic pharmaceutical compounds. In the preclinical research phase, in vitro models complement in vivo models by reducing animal studies, decreasing costs, and shortening research timelines. Additionally, animal models may not always accurately replicate the human disease phenotype. This review examines the types of cells that can be used to create in vitro IRD models, including retina-specific cell lines, primary retinal cells, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and more. Special attention is given to mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are characterized by various isolation sources, relative ease of isolation, and straightforward differentiation. MSCs derived from bone marrow (BM), adipose tissue (AT), dental tissue (DT), umbilical cord (UC), and other sources can differentiate into retinal cells, including photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, dysfunction of which is most commonly associated with IRDs. Subsequent differentiation of MSCs into retinal cells can be carried out via various methods: culturing in induction media supplemented with certain growth factors, co-culturing with retinal cells or in their conditioned media, or regulating gene expression with viral vector-delivered transcription factors (TFs) or microRNAs (miRNAs). Compared to the popular iPSCs, for example, MSC-based models are significantly cheaper and faster to obtain, making them more feasible for large-scale drug screening. Nevertheless, the existing differentiation methods need further optimization for this promising platform to receive the success it deserves.
Development of photoactive biomaterial using modified fullerene nanoparticles
Authors: Saulėnienė Gabrielė , Kirsnyte-Snioke Monika , Stirkė Arūnas , Jasulaitiene Vitalija , Straksys Antanas , Dobilaitis Samuelis , Melo Wanessa C. M. A.
Published: November 2024

Medical device-associated biofilm infections continue to pose a significant challenge for public health. These infections arise from biofilm accumulation on the device, hampering the antimicrobial treatment. In response, significant efforts have been made to design functional polymeric devices that possess antimicrobial properties, limiting or preventing biofilm formation. However, until now none of the strategies showed a promissory effect. Thus, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has been shown as a promising candidate to overcome this problem. Photosensitizers (PS) are the main key component for aPDT and fullerenes have been chosen as PS due to their good quantum yields and lifetimes spans. In this study, polylactic acid (PLA) surface was modified with fullerene (C60) and reaction was proven by XPS analysis. The biopolymer surface was characterized by AFM, SEM, and water contact angle measurements. The obtained results imply that the highest fullerene precipitation was attained when PLA was modified with ethylenediamine (EDA) before the reaction with C60, as the highest carbon increase was identified using XPS following reaction with C60. While samples’ hydrophobicity decreased after PLA modification with EDA, it increased after fullerene precipitation. Which implies that bacteria have a lower propensity to attach. Although the surface of the samples became smoother following PLA modification with EDA and reaction with 0.1% C60 precipitation, with 1% C60 precipitation the surface roughness was comparable to unmodified PLA, according to AFM and SEM analyses. Fullerene-based biopolymers could potentially be used in aPDT to make antimicrobial surfaces or medical devices.
The role of GABA in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Mick Gail J. , McCormick Kenneth L.
Published: November 2024

Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) is synthesized from glutamate by glutamic decarboxylase (GAD). The entero-pancreatic biology of GABA, which is produced by pancreatic islets, GAD-expressing microbiota, enteric immune cells, or ingested through diet, supports an essential physiologic role of GABA in the health and disease. Outside the central nervous system (CNS), GABA is uniquely concentrated in pancreatic β-cells. They express GAD65, which is a type 1 diabetes (T1D) autoantigen. Glutamate constitutes 10% of the amino acids in dietary protein and is preeminently concentrated in human milk. GABA is enriched in many foods, such as tomato and fermented cheese, and is an over-the-counter supplement. Selected microbiota in the midgut have the enzymatic capacity to produce GABA. Intestinal microbiota interact with gut-associated lymphoid tissue to maintain host defenses and immune tolerance, which are implicated in autoimmune disease. Although GABA is a widely known inhibitory neurotransmitter, oral GABA does not cross the blood brain barrier. Three diabetes-related therapeutic actions are ascribed to GABA, namely, increasing pancreatic β-cell content, attenuating excess glucagon and tamping down T-cell immune destruction. These salutary actions have been observed in numerous rodent diabetes models that usually employed high or near-continuous GABA doses. Clinical studies, to date, have identified positive effects of oral GABA on peripheral blood mononuclear cell cytokine release and plasma glucagon. Going forward, it is reassuring that oral GABA therapy has been well-tolerated and devoid of serious adverse effects.
Electromagnetic-thermal multi-physics coupling simulation of cable joints: considering contact resistance and typical defects
Authors: Wu Lifang , Jin Qingren , Yu Xiaoyong , Zhang Biyun
Published: November 2024

As the “artery” of the urban power grid, high-voltage cables and their operating status are directly related to grid safety. Cable joint is a weak part of cable line prone to defects, leading to cable failure and jeopardizing the power supply reliability. This study constructs a three-dimensional electromagnetic-thermal multi-physics coupling model of cable joint for the analysis of contact resistance and typical insulation defects. Using an equivalent conductivity model, the thermal loss and temperature distribution of the joint were investigated under different contact coefficients. Subsequently, models for air-gap defect and water tree defect in cable joints were established to simulate the temperature and electric field distribution under these conditions. The simulation results indicate that, at an ambient temperature of 25°C, the contact resistance of a 110 kV high-voltage AC cable joint significantly increases the loss density, raising the joint temperature much higher than cable body, while not altering the temperature gradient distribution. Small air-gap has minimal impact on the temperature distribution of joint insulation but causes significant electric field distortion up to 8 kV/mm. Water tree defect considerably affects both temperature and electric field, causing a 20°C temperature rise and a 30 kV/mm electric field distortion. This research reveals the strong influence of contact resistance and water tree defect on cable joints, quantifying the resulting hazards like loss increase, temperature rise and electric field distortion.
Mainstreaming disaster risk reduction (DRR) into development: effectiveness of DRR investment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Imran , Ali Amjad , Ullah Waheed , Jan Mushtaq Ahmad , Ullah Safi , Laker Frederick Andrew , Khan Shahinshah
Published: November 2024

As a low-income country, Pakistan is particularly vulnerable to various natural and human-induced disasters, which have significant consequences for both the environment and human life. A substantial share of the provincial budget is allocated to disaster response and recovery efforts. Prioritizing investment in disaster risk reduction (DRR) is essential to protect lives and assets. Although there is a complex relationship between investments made before and after disasters and their effectiveness in DRR, this dynamic remains insufficiently understood in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province. The current study was designed to analyze the developmental budgeting for DRR in the financial years 2000–2022 in KP province. The Sen’s Slope Estimator and modified Mann-Kendall tests were used to determine the significance trend, while the correlation coefficient test was used to find the correlation between investment in DRR and disaster-induced damages such as deaths, injuries and houses damaged. The study findings reveal that the occurrence of disasters influences post-disaster spending in the KP province, with a significant negative correlation between expenditure and disaster-related damages, implying that increased DRR investment has significantly reduced the consequences of disasters. To minimize vulnerability to future disasters, the province should integrate risk-sensitive planning across all sectoral departments at local, district, and provincial levels, guided by a risk-informed development approach. This proactive strategy would embed disaster resilience within developmental activities, ensuring that each sector aligns with principles of risk reduction and sustainable growth.
Spatiotemporal changes and driving factors of ecological environmental quality in the Yongding-Luan River Basin based on RSEI
Authors: Li Yang , Xie Wenquan , Zhang Jiangdong , Zhang Dongming
Published: November 2024

The ecological environmental quality (EEQ) of the Yongding-Luan River Basin (YLRB) is pivotal to the ecological security of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (JJJ) region's core area. Evaluating the EEQ and analyzing its changes are essential for regional ecological management. However, long-term ecological changes in the YLRB remain uncovered. In this study, we constructed a seamless Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) for the YLRB from 1986 to 2022 using time-series Landsat imagery on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. The Sen + Mann-Kendall method was employed to analyze the spatiotemporal trends of EEQ, and the Geodetector was used to quantitatively assess the driving factors and their interactions. The results show that: 1) The mean RSEI of the YLRB increased from 0.486 in 1986 to 0.532 in 2022, marking a 9.5% rise and indicating a fluctuating upward trend. 2) The EEQ of the YLRB experienced three distinct phases: improvement, deterioration, and re-improvement. Improvements were predominantly in the western YLRB, while deterioration was mainly in the northern Xilinguole region and the southern urban expansion areas of Beijing, Langfang, Tianjin, and Tangshan. 3) The driving factor detection indicates that land use type and annual average precipitation are the primary driving factors of RSEI change in the YLRB. Furthermore, their interaction results in a significant effect on RSEI, with a maximum of 0.691. These findings align with the historical urban expansion in the YLRB and the environmental policies implemented by the Chinese government. The ecological evolution and driving factors identified in this study offer a scientific basis for regional ecological decision-making and management.
Urban expansion and agricultural land loss: a GIS-Based analysis and policy implications in Hawassa city, Ethiopia
Authors: Molla Mikias Biazen , Gelebo Gezehagn , Girma Gezehagn
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the historical and future trends of urban expansion and its subsequent impact on agricultural land-use in Hawassa city, Ethiopia. A time-series of remote-sensing imageries from Landsat Thematic Mapper for the years 1984, 1990, 2000, and 2010 and Operational Land Imager for 2021 were used to extract the LULC information from the study area. Seven major land-cover classes’ waterbody, built-up, agricultural land, wetland, grassland, woody vegetation, and agroforestry were identified with visual image interpretation along with supervised image classification techniques using the maximum-likelihood algorithm for the study years. The urban and agricultural lands were then extracted from the original LULC data to quantify the extent, rates, and number of area conversion between the two. The Land Change Modeler module of TerrSet software was used to predict the spatial extents of built-up and agricultural lands in 2030 and 2050. The results showed that there have been significant changes between the LULC types in Hawassa city within the past 37 years, from which built-up and agricultural land have shown the most prevalent changes. It showed that built-up land has increased from 584.73 ha in 1,984–3,939.03 ha in 2021, representing a 573.65% increase at an annual growth rate of 15.50%. However, agricultural land decreased from 8,324.64 ha to 3,595.68 ha in the respective years, with a 56.81% decrease at a rate of −1.54% each year. A total of 3,148.74 ha (37.82%) of agricultural land was converted into built-up land within the past 37 years (85.10 ha per year, a rate of 1.02%. The built-up land is projected to increase to 5,009.85 ha and 6,794.73 ha from 2021 to 2030 and 2050, with annual growth rates of 3.02% and 2.50%, respectively. In the same years, agricultural land will decrease to 2,849.58 ha and 2033.46 ha by 2.31% and 1.50% annually, respectively, from which 64.76 ha (1.80%) and 48.41 ha (1.35%) will be converted into built-up land, respectively. Future planning and development in the city should consider the rapid increase in built-up land toward agricultural land areas and develop appropriate adaptation mechanisms for the local community, which is highly dependent on agriculture.
Measuring butterfly persistence in the face of deep uncertainty: a case study using the regal fritillary
Authors: Post van der Burg Max
Published: November 2024

Scientists have documented effects of climate and land use change across a range butterfly species. However, incorporating future climate and land use change into butterfly conservation plans is a difficult task. These difficulties arise mainly from assumptions that future processes are the same as past processes (stationarity) and because scientists cannot reliably predict the future (deep uncertainty). In this case study, I used land use and climate change scenarios to compare possible futures for the regal fritillary, a grassland butterfly in the central United States. My analysis indicated that climate and land use change have the potential to influence species persistence, but that climate change has the larger effect. Moderate warming scenarios may improve the possibility of persistence, whereas extreme warming reduces this possibility. My analysis demonstrates the importance of considering nonstationarity and alternative plausible futures in butterfly conservation planning.
Placental mesenchymal stem cells suppress inflammation and promote M2-like macrophage polarization through the IL-10/STAT3/NLRP3 axis in acute lung injury
Authors: Nie Zhihao , Fan Qinglu , Jiang Wanli , Wei Shujian , Luo Renwei , Hu Haifeng , Liu Gaoli , Lei Yufei , Xie Songping
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a clinically severe respiratory disorder that currently lacks specific and effective pharmacotherapy. The imbalance of M1/M2 macrophage polarization is pivotal in the initiation and progression of ALI. Shifting macrophage polarization from the proinflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype could be a potential therapeutic strategy. The intratracheal administration of placental mesenchymal stem cells (pMSCs) has emerged as a novel and effective treatment for ALI. This study aimed to investigate the role and downstream mechanisms of pMSCs in reprogramming macrophage polarization to exert anti-inflammatory effects in ALI.

Methods

The study used lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammation in both cell and rat models of ALI. Intratracheal administration of pMSCs was tested as a therapeutic intervention. An expression dataset for MSCs cultured with LPS-treated macrophages was collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to predict downstream regulatory mechanisms. Experimental validation was conducted through in vitro and in vivo assays to assess pMSCs effects on macrophage polarization and inflammation.

Results

Both in vitro and in vivo experiments validated that pMSCs promoted M2 macrophage polarization and reduced the release of inflammatory factors. Further analyses revealed that pMSCs activated the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 signaling pathway by secreting interleukin (IL)-10, leading to increased STAT3 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. This activation inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation, promoting M2 macrophage polarization and suppressing the inflammatory response.

Conclusion

The study concluded that pMSCs alleviated lung injury in an LPS-induced ALI model by inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization and proinflammatory factor secretion, while promoting M2 macrophage polarization. This effect was mediated via the IL-10/STAT3/NLRP3 axis, presenting a novel therapeutic pathway for ALI treatment.
Shared genetic architecture between COVID-19 and irritable bowel syndrome: a large-scale genome-wide cross-trait analysis
Authors: Liu Xianqiang , Li Dingchang , Gao Wenxing , Liu Hao , Chen Peng , Zhao Yingjie , Zhao Wen , Dong Guanglong
Published: November 2024

Background

It has been reported that COVID-19 patients have an increased risk of developing IBS; however, the underlying genetic mechanisms of these associations remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate potential shared SNPs, genes, proteins, and biological pathways between COVID-19 and IBS by assessing pairwise genetic correlations and cross-trait genetic analysis.

Materials and methods

We assessed the genetic correlation between three COVID-19 phenotypes and IBS using linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and high-definition likelihood (HDL) methods. Two different sources of IBS data were combined using METAL, and the Multi-trait analysis of GWAS (MTAG) method was applied for multi-trait analysis to enhance statistical robustness and discover new genetic associations. Independent risk loci were examined using genome-wide complex trait analysis (GCTA)-conditional and joint analysis (COJO), multi-marker analysis of genomic annotation (MAGMA), and functional mapping and annotation (FUMA), integrating various QTL information and methods to further identify risk genes and proteins. Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) was employed to compute pleiotropic gene scores, and combined with immune infiltration algorithms, IBS patients were categorized into high and low immune infiltration groups.

Results

We found a positive genetic correlation between COVID-19 infection, COVID-19 hospitalization, and IBS. Subsequent multi-trait analysis identified nine significantly associated genomic loci. Among these, eight genetic variants were closely related to the comorbidity of IBS and COVID-19. The study also highlighted four genes and 231 proteins associated with the susceptibility to IBS identified through various analytical strategies and a stratification approach for IBS risk populations.

Conclusions

Our study reveals a shared genetic architecture between these two diseases, providing new insights into potential biological mechanisms and laying the groundwork for more effective interventions.
Spatial distribution characteristics, ecological risk assessment, and source analysis of heavy metal(loid)s in surface sediments of the nearshore area of Qionghai
Authors: Jiang Junyi , Fu Miao , Yang Jianying , Song Yanwei , Fu Guowei , Wang Hongbing , Lin Cong , Wang Yang
Published: November 2024

To understand the pollution characteristics and potential sources of heavy metal(loid)s in the nearshore sediments of Qionghai, 93 surface sediment samples were collected from the region. The concentrations of 20 elements, including Fe, Mg, Ca, Ti, Mn, Ba, Cr, Sr, Ni, Cu, Zr, As, Hg, Se, Be, Co, Mo, Cd, Ga, and Pb, were measured. The extent of contamination and ecological risk posed by these heavy metals/metalloids were evaluated using the geo-accumulation index, potential ecological risk index, and Nemerow comprehensive risk index. Additionally, correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and positive matrix factorization (PMF) were employed to identify the potential sources of these elements in the sediments. The findings reveal the following: (1) The mean concentrations of Fe, Ca, Mg, Ti, Cu, Sr, Zr, Mo, Cd, Pb, Hg, As, and Se exceed the background values for shallow sea sediments in China. Notably, Ca, Ti, Sr, Zr, Mo, Hg, and As exhibit coefficients of variation greater than 51%, indicating significant spatial variability primarily driven by anthropogenic activities. (2) The ecological risk assessment identifies Sr, Hg, and As as the principal pollutants and key potential ecological risk factors in the study area, necessitating prioritization in subsequent monitoring efforts. (3) Correlation and source analysis suggest that As and Mn primarily originate from agricultural activities, Sr, Ca, and Mg from aquaculture, Zr, Ti, Mo, Se, Pb, Be, Co, Cu, Ga, Ni, Fe, and Cd from natural sources, and Hg, Ba, and Cr from transportation sources. Additionally, this study identified Sr, Hg, and As as the primary pollutants in the Qionghai nearshore area, with sources predominantly linked to agriculture, aquaculture, and traffic. Regular monitoring will help track the effectiveness of implemented control measures and provide data for ongoing risk assessments, ensuring the protection and sustainability of the marine environment.
Comparative evaluation of machine learning models for assessment of seabed liquefaction using finite element data
Authors: Du Xing , Song Yupeng , Wang Dong , He Kunpeng , Chi Wanqing , Xiu Zongxiang , Zhao Xiaolong
Published: November 2024

Predicting wave-induced liquefaction around submarine pipelines is crucial for marine engineering safety. However, the complex of interactions between ocean dynamics and seabed sediments makes rapid and accurate assessments challenging with traditional numerical methods. Although machine learning approaches are increasingly applied to wave-induced liquefaction problems, the comparative accuracy of different models remains under-explored. We evaluate the predictive accuracy of four classical machine learning models: Gradient Boosting (GB), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), and Random Forest (RF). The results indicate that the GB model exhibits high stability and accuracy in predicting wave-induced liquefaction, due to its strong ability to handle complex nonlinear geological data. Prediction accuracy varies across output parameters, with higher accuracy for seabed predictions than for pipeline surroundings. The combination of different input parameters significantly influences model predictive accuracy. Compared to traditional finite element numerical methods, employing machine learning models significantly reduces computation time, offering an effective tool for rapid disaster assessment and early warning in marine engineering. This research contributes to the safety of marine pipeline protections and provides new insights into the intersection of marine geological engineering and artificial intelligence.
Enhancing crack self-healing properties of low-carbon LC3 cement using microbial induced calcite precipitation technique
Authors: Wei Wenzhu , He Qinglong , Pang Sen , Ji Shengjie , Cheng Yiluo , Sun Ninghui , Liang Yinghao
Published: November 2024

Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) is a promising low-carbon alternative to traditional cement, but its reduced clinker content limits its self-healing ability for microcracks, affecting durability. This study explores the application of Microbial Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) technique to enhance the crack self-healing capacity of LC3-based materials. Bacillus pasteurii was utilized to induce calcium carbonate precipitation to improve the crack self-healing capacity of LC3, thereby addressing its limited durability due to reduced clinker content. Experimental tests focused on optimizing the growth conditions for B. pasteurii, evaluating the compressive strength, capillary water absorption, and crack self-healing rates of the modified LC3 material. Results showed that under optimal conditions (pH of 9, inoculation volume of 10%, incubation temperature of 30°C, and shaking speed of 150 rpm), the bacterial strain exhibited maximum metabolic activity. The Microbe-LC3 mortar demonstrated a self-healing rate of up to 97% for cracks narrower than 100 μm, significantly higher than unmodified LC3. Additionally, the compressive strength of Microbe-LC3 was enhanced by approximately 15% compared to standard LC3 mortar after 28 days. The capillary water absorption was reduced, indicating improved durability due to the microbial-induced calcium carbonate filling the pores. This study confirms that MICP technology is a viable approach to significantly enhance the performance of LC3, contributing to the development of more durable and sustainable cementitious materials for construction applications.
Comparison of the smiley face rod method versus intervertebral fusion for the treatment of L5 spondylolysis in adults
Authors: Dong Qi-Yuan , Yang Xue-Fei , Wu Hai-Long , Shi Yan , Yu Li-Min , Huang Yong-Can , Yu Bin-Sheng
Published: November 2024

Purpose

For patients who suffered from L5 spondylolysis and fail to improve using conservative treatment, the best surgical strategy remains controversial. This study compares the efficacy of the treatment of L5 spondylolysis using the smiley face rod (SFR) method versus intervertebral fusion (IF).

Methods

We analyzed 38 patients with L5 spondylolysis who underwent surgery in our department between January 2017 and June 2019. Of these, 32 patients were included in our study: 14 patients in the SFR group and 18 patients in the IF group. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage time, length of stay and postoperative complications were compared. The pain visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI) were evaluated before operation and at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. The changes in range of motion (ROM) in L4/5 and L5/S1 in these two groups before and after surgery were measured through imaging examinations and the bone graft fusion rate was assessed according to the Brown standard.

Results

The operation time of the SFR group was much shorter than that of the IF group (98.8 ± 8.3 vs. 113.8 ± 8.6 min, P < 0.05), and the blood loss of the SFR group was significantly lower than that of the IF group (90.0 ± 43.9 vs. 175.0 ± 81.2 ml, P < 0.05). Length of stay in the SFR group was less than that of the IF group (9.5 ± 2.5 vs. 12.6 ± 3.2 d, P < 0.05). No difference was found in the VAS and ODI scores between the two groups at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. In the IF group, the ROM in L4/5 showed an obvious increase after surgery compared to that before surgery, and it was much bigger than that of the SFR group (P < 0.05). A notable reduction of ROM was seen in L5/S1 in the IF group compared to the SFR group (P < 0.05). The fusion rate of the isthmus in the SFR group was 79% at 3 months and 86% at 6 months after surgery. In the IF group, one patient suffered from adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), which caused compression symptoms in the lower extremity, and one patient suffered from an internal fixation fracture; these complications were not seen in the SFR group.

Conclusion

The SFR and IF both improve the clinical symptoms and quality of life of patients with L5 spondylolysis. However, the SFR technique had the advantages of a shorter operation time and less blood loss than IF; it could also preserve the ROM of the surgical segment and had little influence on adjacent segments in short-term follow-ups.
Metagenomics analysis of bacterial community structure from wood- and soil-feeding termites: metabolic pathways and functional structures toward the degradation of lignocellulose and recalcitrant compounds
Authors: Xie Rongrong , Danso Blessing , Sun Jianzhong , Al-Tohamy Rania , Khalil Maha A. , Schagerl Michael , Ali Sameh S.
Published: November 2024

Some essential information on gut bacterial profiles and their unique contributions to food digestion in wood-feeding termites (WFT) and soil-feeding termites (SFT) is still inadequate. The feeding type of termites is hypothesized to influence their gut bacterial composition and its functionality in degrading lignocellulose or other organic chemicals. This could potentially provide alternative approaches for the degradation of some recalcitrant environmental chemicals. Therefore, metagenomic analysis can be employed to examine the composition and functional profiles of gut bacterial symbionts in WFT and SFT. Based on the metagenomic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of gut bacterial symbionts in the WFT, Microcerotermes sp., and the SFT, Pericapritermes nitobei, the findings revealed a total of 26 major bacterial phyla, with 18 phyla commonly represented in both termites, albeit in varying abundances. Spirochaetes dominated the bacterial symbionts in Microcerotermes sp. at 55%, followed by Fibrobacters, while Firmicutes dominated the gut bacteria symbionts in P. nitobei at 95%, with Actinobacteria coming in second at 2%. Furthermore, the Shannon and phylogenetic tree diversity indices, as well as the observed operational taxonomic units and Chao 1 richness indices, were all found to be higher in the WFT than in the SFT deduced from the alpha diversity analysis. Based on the principal coordinate analysis, exhibited a significant distance dissimilarity between the gut bacterial symbionts. The results showed that the gut bacterial composition differed significantly between the WFT and SFT. Furthermore, Tax4Fun analysis evaluated bacterial functions, revealing the predominance of carbohydrate metabolism, followed by amino acid metabolism and energy metabolism in both Microcerotermes sp. and P. nitobei termites. The results implicated that bacterial symbionts inhabiting the guts of both termites were actively involved in the degradation of lignocellulose and other recalcitrant compounds.
Comprehensive effects of fecal microbiota transplantation on cynomolgus macaques across various fecal conditions
Authors: Kang Philyong , Bae Gyu-Seo , Jeon Eunsu , Choi Jeonghwa , Hwang Eun-Ha , Kim Green , Baek Seung Ho , Shim Kyuyoung , An You Jung , Lim Kyung Seob , Kim Yujin , Oh Taehwan , Hong Jung Joo , Lee Wan-Kyu , Kim Seok-Hwan , Koo Bon-Sang
Published: November 2024

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and probiotics therapies represent key clinical options, yet their complex effects on the host are not fully understood. We evaluated the comprehensive effects of FMT using diarrheal or normal feces, as well as probiotic therapies, on multiple anatomical sites in healthy cynomolgus macaques through colonoscopy and surgery. Our research revealed that FMT led to a partial microbiome transplantation without exhibiting the donor’s fecal clinical characteristics. Notably, FMT increased insulin and C-peptide levels in each animal according time series, regardless of fecal conditions. Immunologically, a reduction in neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were exclusively observed in femoral veins of FMT group. In blood chemistry analyses, reductions in aspartate aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine were observed in the femoral veins, while elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and calcium were exclusively detected in the portal veins. These changes were not observed in the probiotic group. Also, short chain fatty acids were significantly higher increase in portal veins rather than femoral veins. Transcriptome analysis of liver tissues showed that metabolic pathways were primarily affected by both FMT and probiotics therapies. In summary, FMT therapy significantly influenced metabolic, immunologic and transcriptomic responses in normal macaque models, regardless of fecal conditions. Also, these macaque models, which utilize surgery and colonoscopy, serve as a human-like preclinical platform for evaluating long-term effects and anatomically specific responses to gut-targeted interventions, without the need for animal sacrifice.
Smartphone tests quantify lower extremities dysfunction in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Jin Kimberly , Kosa Peter , Bielekova Bibiana
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Increasing shortage of neurologists compounded by the global aging of the population have translated into suboptimal care of patients with chronic neurological diseases. While some patients might benefit from expanding telemedicine, monitoring neurological disability via telemedicine is challenging. Smartphone technologies represent an attractive tool for remote, self-administered neurological assessment. To address this need, we have developed a suite of smartphone tests, called neurological functional test suite (NeuFun-TS), designed to replicate traditional neurological examination. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of two NeuFun-TS tests—short walk and foot tapping—to quantify motor functions of lower extremities as assessed by a neurologist.

Methods

A cohort of 108 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients received a full neurological examination, imaging of the brain, and completed the NeuFun-TS smartphone tests. The neurological exam was digitalized using the NeurEx™ platform, providing calculation of traditional disability scales, as well as quantification of lower extremities-specific disability. We assessed unilateral correlations of 28 digital biomarkers generated from the NeuFun-TS tests with disability and MRI outcomes and developed machine learning models that predict physical disability. Model performance was tested in an independent validation cohort.

Results

NeuFun-TS-derived digital biomarkers correlated strongly with traditional outcomes related to gait and lower extremities functions (e.g., Spearman ρ > 0.8). As expected, the correlation with global disability outcomes was weaker, but still highly significant (e.g., ρ 0.46–0.65; p < 0.001 for EDSS). Digital biomarkers also correlated with semi-quantitative imaging outcomes capturing locations that can affect lower extremity functions (e.g., ρ ~ 0.4 for atrophy of medulla). Reliable digital outcomes with high test-retest values showed stronger correlation with disability outcomes. Combining strong, reliable digital features using machine learning resulted in models that outperformed predictive power of best individual digital biomarkers in an independent validation cohort.

Discussion

NeuFun-TS tests provide reliable digital biomarkers of lower extremity motor functions.