bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bi-directional Free-Space Visible Light Communication (VLC) Supporting Multiple Moveable Clients Using Special Light Diffusing Optical Fiber (LDOF)
Authors: Chang Yun-Han , Chow Chi-Wai , Lin Yuan-Zeng , Jian Yin-He , Wang Chih-Chun , Liu Yang , Yeh Chien-Hung
Published: April 2023

Visible light communication (VLC) can offer the advantages of license and electromagnetic interference (EMI) free wireless transmission. As optical signal does not interference with the radio-frequency (RF) signal, VLC can be used to augment RF wireless communication to provide extra communication capacity while without degrading the performance of both signals. In order to achieve high performance VLC transmission, optical alignment between the optical transmit (Tx) and receiver (Rx) is very critical to enhance the received signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Optical beam-steering at the Tx can be utilized to ensure narrow optical beam can reach the Rx; however, complicated and active tracking are required. Lenses or compound parabolic concentrators (CPCs) can be install in front of the Rx for focusing to enhance the SNR. However, these will limit the Rx field-of-view (FOV) and making the VLC transmission more subjected to misalignment issue. Hence, many creative optical antennas have been proposed and demonstrated using special optical materials as well as special Rx to enhance the FOV of VLC systems. However, they have their limitations, such as data rates and FOVs. In this work, we put forward and demonstrate a bi-direction free-space VLC system supporting multiple moveable Rxs using a light-diffusing optical fiber (LDOF). The downlink (DL) signal is launched from an head-end or central office (CO) far away to the LDOF at the client side via a free-space transmission. When the DL signal is launched to the LDOF, which acts as an optical antenna to re-transmit the DL signal to different moveable Rxs. The uplink (UL) signal is sent via the LDOF towards the CO. In a proof-of-concept demonstration, the LDOF is 100 cm long and the free space VLC transmission between the CO and the LDOF is 100 cm. 210 Mbit/s DL and 850 Mbit/s UL transmissions, meeting the pre-forward-error-correction bit error rate (pre-FEC BER = 3.8 × 10−3) threshold are achieved.
Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Infections and the Percentage of Deaths Among Infected Healthcare Workers in Poland
Authors: Wojczyk Marek , Niewiadomska Ewa , Kowalska Małgorzata
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Poland is not exactly known. This study aims to present secondary epidemiological data identifying the scale of the spread of novel coronavirus infection in selected professional groups of HCWs in Poland. (2) Methods: The secondary epidemiological data included both the number of infections and the number and percentages of deaths in individual occupational groups, which occurred throughout the observation period, both in the country and in individual voivodeships. (3) Results: The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infections among HCWs was 16.48%. The highest percentage of infected concerned laboratory scientists (21.62%) and paramedics (18%). The highest frequency of infections among HCWs occurred in the province of Zachodnio-Pomorskie (18.9%). Due to COVID-19, 558 healthcare workers died during the analysed period, mostly nurses (n=236) and doctors (n=200). The results regarding the vaccination coverage of HCWs against COVID-19 indicate the highest percentage of vaccinated were among doctors (83.63%) and the smallest among physiotherapists (38.2%). (4) Conclusions: In general, the percentage of infections was high in Poland during the pandemic (16.48%). Significant territorial differences were observed in the frequency of infections, deaths, and percentage of vaccinated workers in individual voivodeships.
Stratigraphic and Paleoenvironmental Studies on the Lower Eocene Succession at El-Guss Abu Said Plateau, Farafra Oasis, Western Desert, Egypt
Authors: Shreif Abeer , Obaidalla Nageh A. , Menoufy Safia Al
Published: April 2023

The Lower Eocene Succession at El-Guss Abu Said Plateau was examined to determine the paleoenvironments and nature of deposition based upon benthic foraminiferal biofacies. Lithostratigraphically, this succession consists of the Esna Formation (shale) at the base, the Nusf Formation (well-bedded marl with occasional limestone ledges), and the Farafra Formation (limestone) at the top. The Esna Formation is an outer shelf-upper bathyal facies rich in planktonic and deeper-dwelling smaller benthic foraminifera. The Nusf Formation and the Farafra Formation are rich in Nummulites and Alveolinids, indicating a carbonate platform facies. Three benthic foraminiferal biofacies, combined with the lithology of the rock units, indicate progressive shoaling, likely associated with tectonic uplift that occurred during the early Eocene in the El-Guss Abu-Said area.
Multispecies Planktonic and Benthic Foraminiferal Stable Isotopes from North Atlantic Subtropical Site 558: Thermocline Intensification During the Mid-Miocene Climate Transition
Authors: Galochkina Mariya , Makarova Maria , Miller Kenneth G. , Browning James V. , Keating Ronan S. , Wright James D.
Published: April 2023

We reconstruct the subtropical North Atlantic water column structure during the Miocene Climate Optimum warming (MCO; 17–14.8 Ma) and the Middle Miocene Climate Transition cooling (MMCT; 14.8–12.8 Ma) by analyzing δ18O and δ13C in four species of foraminifera (surface dwellers Dentoglobigerina altispira and Trilobatus quadrilobatus, thermocline dweller Dentoglobigerina venezuelana, and benthic Planulina wuellerstorfi) from Site 558 (37.8°N). At the end of the MCO, δ18O of surface and thermocline dwellers increased by >1‰, suggesting at least 2°C cooling in the upper ocean as ice growth increased global δ18Osw by ∼0.5‰. The difference in δ18O values between thermocline and surface-dwelling species increased during the MMCT, coinciding with the development of a largely permanent East Antarctic Ice Sheet, and persisted into the Late Miocene. We interpret this increase in vertical δ18O gradient as a strengthening of the thermocline due to intensification of subtropical gyre circulation in response to the MMCT cooling.
Factores que influyen en el crecimiento de exportaciones de jengibre al mercado internacional - Región Junín durante pandemia Covid 19 - 2021
Authors:   , Barrios Mariño Andrea Diana Jannet
Published: April 2023

La exportación es la retribución de beneficios por la venta de productos y/o servicios a otros países, estas transacciones se dan entre personas y/o empresas que están ubicadas en un territorio no común para que sea efectivo (Lerma & Márquez, 2010). Tal como lo señala Sulser (2004), se entiende que la exportación es un proceso que implica conocimiento técnico y habilidades intrapersonales como, por ejemplo, la perseverancia y compromiso, además debemos conocer factores claves para la identificación del mercado internacional, puesto que el efecto de la globalización nos permite tener un mayor uso de los recursos para generar un efecto beneficioso en el desarrollo de nuevas actividades como por ejemplo Acuerdos Comerciales, TIC’s, etc. La exportación guarda relación con retribuciones fundamentales que los gobiernos y empresas adquieren por desarrollar esta actividad, ya que proporciona una balanza comercial equitativa. A nivel empresarial, la exportación beneficia a mejorar el I+D; desarrolla las técnicas organizativas y directivas; fluctúa el riesgo de la compañía, agrupado a sus actividades en el mercado doméstico y facilita la utilización de diversos recursos organizacionales logrando incrementar las variables financieras y competitivas de la compañía (Czinkota et al.,1996). Para identificar diferentes tipos de estrategias es indispensable analizar el campo de estudio y los elementos que lo componen, por ello debemos tener en cuenta la aplicación de la superioridad de la compañía, que comprende la identificación de los distintos métodos o acciones competitivas que pueden realizar las empresas para competir. Se tiene conocimiento sobre los causantes que contribuyen en las exportaciones, como, por ejemplo, la demanda de consumidores, factores políticos, costos y competencia y estos elementos, tiene dependencia de los factores determinantes. Zou et, al,. (1998) detallan que el rendimiento exportador generalmente…
Grow Newtonian rigid inertia into parameter repetitiveness memory equivalent bio-inertia to define G shifting quantum growth gravity for issuing the Principle of Entropy Degeneration
Authors: Lai Yi Yu
Published: April 2023

Note: Please see pdf for full abstract with equations.
Inversion energy is parameter-against-gravity-internal-fluctuation, the non-simultaneousness gravitational tension among turnover fluctuations is quantizing time. Modified Newtonian Laws, first: 𝑑 𝑑𝑥 cosx =−𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥, 𝑑 𝑑𝑥 sinx = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥; second: 𝐹⃗ = 𝑚 ∙ 𝑎⃗ + |𝑚𝑔⃗ ∫ 𝑡𝑔𝜃 ⋅ 𝑑𝜃 ⟩ ↿⇂ third: Wavelength = 2 𝑛 , reeueenc = n𝑓0 . Bio-systems are topological spaces through repetitiveness memories to deliver a degenerated entropy for offspring, the trigonometric flux through the space by environmental surface inversion is bio-inertia. Schrödinger equation has only quantized energy thus inducing quantum collapse, we then utilize 𝑯̂ 𝜓 = 𝑬𝜓 + ∑ | cos( 1 𝑛 𝑛 𝑥)⟩ to degenerate eigenstates on a surface tension region to define G shifting quantum growth gravity for reconstructing non-simultaneous time. Originating from gravitational turnover tension between Planck regions and surface tension regions, bio quantum grows in vivo cross folded-surface tension region flow. By the Principle (or Law) of Entropy Degeneration, life relies on negentropy procurements to physically inherit by quantum growth turnover immunity that regenerates by sexual yolk sac (or asexual nucleus) homing. The evolution of long COVID niches and AI/BI is also unveiled.
QTL Mapping and Candidate Gene Analysis of Low-temperature Tolerance at the Germination Stage of Soybean
Authors: Zheng Liping , Xie Jianguo , Sun Xingmiao , Zheng Yuhong , Meng Fanfan , Fan Xuhong , Li Guang , Zhang Yunfeng , Wang Mingliang , Zhou Ruo , Qiu Hongmei , Wang Shuming , Jiang Hongwei
Published: April 2023

When soybean seeds encounter low temperature during germination, the vigor and germination of soybean seeds are affected, which leads to a lack of seedlings and weak seedlings, resulting in yield reduction. In-depth analysis of the genetic mechanism of soybean seed germination tolerance to low-temperature stress and the cultivation ofsoybean-tolerant varieties is the key to resisting low-temperature stress at the germination stage. In the present study, a chromosome segment substitution line (CSSL) population constructed by wild soybean ZYD00006 and cultivated soybean SN14 was used to map three QTLs. Five candidate genes were obtained by gene annotation, GO enrichment analysis and protein function prediction. The candidate genes were subjected to bioinformatics analysis, qRT-PCR analysis, trypsin activity analysis and soluble protein content analysis. The results showed that the secondary and tertiary structures of the Glyma.09G162700proteins were mutated. Within 0to 72 h, the expression of Glyma.09G162700 in the two materials with different toleranceswas consistent, and the change intrypsin activity was consistent with the change in protein expression. Through haplotype analysis, Glyma.09G162700 produced two haplotypes at -2420 bp. The germination rate (GR) and relative germination rate (RGR) of the two haplotypes were significantly different, indicating that the two haplotypes have wide applicability in soybean resources. In summary, Glyma.09G162700 may be a candidate gene for low-temperature tolerance at the germination stage of soybean. These results provide an important theoretical basis and marker information for analyzing the mechanism of low-temperature tolerance in soybean germination stage and cultivating low-temperature tolerant varieties.
Comparative Technical Assessment of the Treatment Schemes for Faecal Sludge Handling and Management using Geotube and Jute Tube Technology
Authors: Lakavathu Sakkubai , Reddy Vamshi Krishna , Singh Neha , Kamble Pramod , Jadhav Jayesh , Choudhury Atun Roy , Palani Sankar Ganesh
Published: April 2023

Faecal sludge (FS) or septage collected from an onsite containment system such as septic tanks, pit latrines, bio-digester etc., is handled in sewage treatment facilities with the help of a co-treatment unit or tackled individually at faecal sludge treatment plants (FSTPs). Treatment of faecal sludge in FSTPs is a generally cumbersome, energy-intensive, and expensive process. Enhancing the size of the solid particle, dewatering, and disinfection are essential unit operations that contribute to a significant portion of the operational expenditure. Therefore, the present study took up the task of investigating and yielding a natural alternative to each of the above-delineated unit operations. Crushed seed powders of Moringa, Guilandina bonduc, Nirmali, Tamarind, Soap nut, Nutmeg, Jackfruit, and Custard apple seed powder experimented as natural coagulants. At the same time, a double-stitched cow dung-lined jute tube was utilized as the media for solid-liquid separation. Finally, Neem and Custard Apple seed and leaf powder were considered herbal disinfectants for the separated liquid and solid fractions, respectively. The findings of the physicochemical and biological analysis of the above unit operations were compared with a conventional polymer-based Geotube driven treatment scheme. The natural alternatives registered some promising outcomes. However, the combined treatment efficacy of 78.94% for pollutant removal and disinfection could not exceed the value of 99.01% offered by the conventional method. Moreover, herbal alternatives are scarce, expensive, and slow reacting. Therefore, the authors recommend further research to overcome the persisting issues with herbal alternatives for their field-scale adaptation.
Fatty acid composition but not quantity is an important indicator of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Das Arpita , Tang Yu Lung Malcolm , Althumiri Nora A. , Garcia-Larsen Vanessa , Schattenberg Jörn M , Alqahtani Saleh A.
Published: April 2023

BackgroundThere is still paucity on the effects of dietary and supplemental fatty acid on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this review is to systematically review and summarise the effect of fatty acids intake on liver related outcomes in adult patients with NAFLD.MethodsThe review was conducted using Cochrane CENTRAL Library, scopus, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Science. A total of 2786 records were identified, and of these, 36 studies (31 were randomised control trials (RCTs), and 5 were case-control studies) were included. Quality assessment was conducted using the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Joanna Briggs Institute checklists.ResultsOf 36 articles, 79% of RCTs and 66% of case-control studies had a low risk of bias. Potential heterogeneity has been observed in assessment of liver related outcomes. According to the RCTs, there was moderate evidence (3/6 studies) that a diet characterised by a high MUFA, PUFA and low SFA showed reduced liver fat and stiffness. The using of culinary fats that are high in MUFA (4/6 studies) reduces liver steatosis. n-3 PUFA supplementation in combination with a hypocaloric or heart healthy diet with a low SFA improved liver enzyme level (5/14 studies) and steatosis score (3/14 studies).ConclusionsEffects on NAFLD parameters, including liver fat, stiffness and steatosis, were primarily related to fatty acid composition independent of energy intake. Further investigation is needed to determine the mechanism of specific fatty acid on the accumulation of liver fat.
Oral Epithelial Dysplasia Detection and Grading in Oral Leukoplakia Using Deep Learning
Authors: Peng Jiakuan , Xu Ziang , Dan Hongxia , Li Jing , Wang Jiongke , Luo Xiaobo , Xu Hao , Zeng Xin , Chen Qianming
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND The grading of oral epithelial dysplasia is often time-consuming for oral pathologists and the results are poorly reproducible between observers. In this study, we aimed to establish an objective, accurate and useful detection and grading system for oral epithelial dysplasia in the whole-slides of oral leukoplakia.
METHODSFour convolutional neural networks were compared using the image patches from 56 whole-slide of oral leukoplakia labeled by pathologists as the gold standard. Sequentially, feature detection models were trained, validated and tested with 1,000 image patches using the optimal network. Lastly, a comprehensive system named E-MOD-plus was established by combining feature detection models and a multiclass logistic model.
RESULTS EfficientNet-B0 was selected as the optimal network to build feature detection models. In the internal dataset of whole-slide images, the prediction accuracy of E-MOD-plus was 81.3% (95% confidence interval: 71.4% to 90.5%) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.793 (95% confidence interval: 0.650 to 0.925); in the external dataset of 229 tissue microarray images, the prediction accuracy was 86.5% (95% confidence interval: 82.4% to 90.0%) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.669 (95% confidence interval: 0.496 to 0.843).
CONCLUSIONSE-MOD-plus was objective and accurate in the detection of pathological features as well as the grading of oral epithelial dysplasia, and had potential to assist pathologists in clinical practice.
Diversity and composition of mixed-ploidy unisexual salamander assemblages reflect the key influence of host species
Authors: Bare Evan , Bogart Jim P. , Wilson Chris , Murray Dennis L. , Hossie Thomas J.
Published: April 2023

Understanding processes that govern and sustain biological diversity is a central goal of community ecology. Unisexual complexes, where reproduction depends on sperm from males of one or more bisexual host species, are rare and the processes driving their diversity and structure remain poorly understood. Unisexual Ambystoma salamanders produce distinct biotypes (‘genomotypes’) depending on which bisexual species they ‘steal’ sperm from. This reproductive mode should generate distinct assemblages depending on the locally available bisexual host species. Yet, how availability and relative abundance of multiple bisexual hosts influences composition and diversity of natural unisexual assemblages at local or regional scales remains unknown. We hypothesize that host identity most directly drives local assemblage composition, with host variation associated with increased beta and gamma diversity within unisexuals. We collected genetic samples from Ambystoma salamanders across Pelee Island, Ontario, Canada (2015-2022). Two host species were identified (A. texanum and A. laterale) with nine sites having a single host and one site having both. Unisexual assemblages were grouped into four clusters by similarity, with host identity being a key determinant. Gamma diversity increased as a result of distinct host-specific assemblages forming at different sites on the island (i.e., high beta diversity). Assemblage composition, but not diversity, was correlated with relative host abundance, which may reflect matching niche requirements between host and unisexual forms they produce. Our results demonstrate that diversity and structure of unisexual assemblages are clearly shaped by their host(s) and such systems may serve as models for studying how biotic interactions shape ecological communities.
Commonly used indices completely disagree about the relative effect of moisture on heat stress
Authors: Simpson Charles , Brousse Oscar , Ebi Kristie , Heaviside Clare
Published: April 2023

Irrigation and urban greening can mitigate extreme temperatures and reduce adverse health impacts from heat. However, some recent studies suggest these interventions could actually exacerbate heat stress by increasing humidity. These studies use different heat stress indices (HSIs), hindering intercomparisons of the relative roles of temperature and humidity. Our novel method compares the sensitivity of HSIs to temperature and humidity, independent of HSI units. Using this method, we explain the properties of different HSIs and identify the conditions under which they agree or disagree. We highlight recent studies where the use of different HSIs could have led to opposite conclusions. Our findings have significant implications for the evaluation of irrigation and urban greening as adaptive responses to overheating, and climate adaptation measures in general. We urge researchers to be more critical in their choice of HSIs; our method provides a useful tool for making informed comparisons.
The Roles of Pets in Long-Term Care at Home: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Reniers Peter W.A. , Leontjevas Roeslan , Declercq Ine J.N. , Enders-Slegers Marie-Jose , Gerritsen Debby L. , Hediger Karin
Published: April 2023

Background Pets play very important roles for older adults. However, whether the same roles apply to pets of care clients receiving long-term care at home (LTCH) is unclear. This study aimed primarily to explore whether the roles of pets for LTCH-clients who own pets are comparable to the roles of pets for older adults in the general population. Furthermore, we explored potential pet-related problems that might be encountered in LTCH in practice, and the potential influences of pet ownership on caregiving relationships. These insights may help improve long-term care services in LTCH.Methods This project started with a study using the Consensual Qualitative Research method (CQR). We conducted semi-structured interviews based on themes from our previous review (e.g., Relational Aspects, Emotional Aspects, and Social Aspects). Secondly, a LimeSurvey questionnaire was used to confirm the findings from the CQR study by calculating Content Validity Index scores (in SPSS 26) regarding contents, relevance, and clarity. The questionnaire also included open-ended questions on potential pet-related problems and their impact on caregiving relationships for LTCH-clients, family caregivers, and professional caregivers.Results The CQR study found that the roles pets play for LTCH-clients (N = 8), family caregivers (N = 10), and professional caregivers (N = 10) were similar to the roles pets play for older adults in the general population. The LimeSurvey confirmed most of the CQR findings. In the questionnaire, LTCH-clients (N = 4), family caregivers (N = 8), professional caregivers (N = 8), and researchers in human-animal studies and in geriatric care (N = 5) reported various potential problems that could arise from pet ownership by LTCH-clients, such as clients with deteriorating health being forced to part with their pets. Participants also reported potential positive and negative effects of pet ownership on caregiving relationships, such as pets being a nice topic of conversation, or, conversely, a source of disagreement in the LTCH context.Conclusions The roles pets play for LTCH-clients seem comparable to the roles pets play for older adults in the general population. In addition, LTCH-clients might experience pet-related problems specific to the LTCH context. Pets may influence caregiving relationships, either positively or negatively. Therefore, instruments and guidelines are needed to account for pets in LTCH.
Paleobiogeography of the land snail communities of the Middle Miocene silvana-beds of Germany
Authors: Höltke Olaf , Salvador Rodrigo B. , Rasser Michael W.
Published: April 2023

The silvana-beds are the main component of the Upper Freshwater Molasse (“Obere Süßwassermolasse” or OSM) in southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland, named after the land snail Palaeotachea silvana (Klein, 1853). After initial disputes in the literature, in the 1920’s, malacologist Wilhelm Wenz better defined the silvana-beds lithology and its three informal subunits based on terrestrial gastropods. The silvana-beds mainly consist of limestone, marl and clay, eventually with sandy components. Despite remaining an informal stratigraphical unit, the silvana-beds is a practical tool for stratigraphic determination in the field and for paleomalacology studies. Information about the land snail communities of the silvana-beds are scattered in the literature and museum collections. Therefore, here we compile all this information and conduct a detailed biogeographic comparison of these localities’ snail faunas, based on similarity indices. For that purpose, all communities (containing at least six terrestrial gastropod species, from a total of 28 localities) within the silvana-beds and the adjoining coeval Bad Urach volcanic region were analyzed, based on four similarity indices and follow-up cluster analyses. The land snail communities of the silvana-beds formed six clusters (defined by ca. 50% similarity) according to the Sørensen-Dice index, five clusters by the Kulczynski and Ochiai indices, and four ones by the Simpson index. Despite some differences in the resulting dendrograms, enough similarity in the clustering was found for a meaningful comparison. The resulting clusters can be largely explained by geographic position, as is the case of the two main groupings recovered, representing the German Bavarian and Baden-Württemberg states. Some inconsistencies in the composition of the clusters might be explained by different stratigraphic positions within the silvana-beds, distinct paleoenvironmental conditions influencing the faunal composition, or the absence of key species.
Territorial gaps on quality of causes of death statistics over the last forty years in Spain
Authors: Cirera Lluís , Bañón Rafael-María , Maeso Sergio , Molina Puri , Ballesta Mónica , Chirlaque María-Dolores , Salmeron Diego
Published: April 2023

Background. The quality of the statistics on causes of death (CoD) does not present consolidated indicators in literature further than the coding group of ill-defined conditions of the International Classification of Diseases. Our objective was to assess the territorial quality of CoD by reliability of the official mortality statistics in Spain over the years 1980-2019.
Methods. A descriptive epidemiological design of four decades (1980-, 1990-, 2000-, and 2010-2019) by region (18) and sex was implemented. The CoD cases, and adjusted rates and ratios (to all-cause) were assigned by reliability to unspecific and ill-defined quality groups. The regional mortality rates were contrasted to the Spanish median by decade and sex by the Comparative Mortality Ratio (CMR) in a Bayesian perspective. Statistical significance was considered when the CMR did not contain the value 1 in the 95% credible intervals.
Results. Unspecific, ill-defined, and all-cause rates by region and sex have decreased over 1980-2019. Also, the proportion of ill-defined CoD has decreased in both sexes over the decades, but was still prominent in 3 regions. CMR of ill-defined CoD in both sexes exceeded the Spanish median in 3 regions in all decades. In the last decade, the CMR in women significantly exceeded in 5 regions for ill-defined and in 6 regions for unspecific CoD, while the CMR in men exceeded in 4 of the 18 regions, respectively.
Conclusions. The quality of mortality statistics of causes of death has increased over the 40 years in Spain; however, quality gaps still remain across regions. Institutions involved may consider surveilling CoD, and developing a systematic medical post-grade training on death certification.
ASF1 regulates asexual and sexual reproduction in Stemphylium eturmiunum by DJ-1 stimulation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Shi , Liu Xiaoman , Xiong Chenlin , Gao Susu , Xu Wenmeng , Zhao Lili , Song Chunyan , Liu Xiaoyong , James Timothy Y. , Li Zhuang , Zhang Xiu Guo
Published: April 2023

Most fungi display a mixed mating system with both asexual and sexual reproduction. The timing of the two modes of reproduction must be carefully coordinated through signal perception and coordination in the cell along with chromatin modification. Here, we investigated coordination of reproductive output by investigating the function of the histone chaperone anti-silencing factor 1 (ASF1) in a fungal species amenable to characterization of both asexual and sexual reproduction. We used knockout approach to show that SeASF1 influenced asexual and sexual reproduction in S. eturmiunum. SeASF1-deleted strains failed to produce perithecia, but produce abnormal conidia and showed an irregular distribution of nuclei in mycelium. Transcriptome sequencing was then used to identify genes with altered expression in the SeASF1-deleted strains. The screen identified SeDJ-1 that was strongly regulated by SeASF1. The interaction of SeDJ-1 and SeASF1 was confirmed using Y2H, Co-IP, and pull-down. The phosphatidylinositol 3kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway was known to interact with DJ-1 in mammals, and we verified that SePI3K was directly linked to SeDJ-1 and was defined as a coordinator of reproduction. Meanwhile, SeDJ-1 and SePI3K stimulated asexual and sexual activity, respectively, but SePI3K recovered the asexual and sexual development of SeDJ-1 knockout mutants. The SeDJ-1-M6 segment of SeDJ-1 was essential for its interaction with SePI3K and also carried out a critical role in restoring reproduction in the SePI3K knockout mutants, providing a deep understanding of the regulatory mechanism of SeDJ-1 in S. eturmiunum. Summarily, SeASF1 triggers SeDJ-1 to activate SePI3K which is involved in asexual and sexual reproduction in S. eturmiunum. This study revealed that SeASF1 manipulates asexual and sexual reproduction in S. eturmiunum by SeDJ-1 perception of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. These data highlight the deep similarities in coordinating asexual and sexual processes in both fungi and eukaryotes in general.
Effects of miglustat therapy on neurological disorder and survival in early- infantile Niemann-Pick disease type C: a national French retrospective study
Authors: Freihuber Cécile , Dahmani-Rabehi Bahia , Brassier Anaïs , Broué Pierre , Cances Claude , Chabrol Brigitte , Eyer Didier , Labarthe François , Latour Philippe , Levade Thierry , Pichard Samia , Sevin Caroline , Vanier Marie T. , HERON Benedicte
Published: April 2023

BackgroundNiemann-Pick disease type C (NP-C) is a rare neurovisceral lysosomal lipid storage disease characterized by progressive neurodegeneration and premature death. While miglustat can stabilize neurological manifestations in later onset forms of NP-C, its efficacy in the early-infantile neurological form has not been demonstrated. In this observational retrospective study, we compared long-term neurodevelopmental outcome and survival between an untreated and a treated group of early infantile NP-C patients.MethodData available on all NP-C patients with early infantile neurological onset diagnosed in France between 1990 and 2013 were compiled. Patients with incomplete data or who had died from a systemic perinatal, rapidly fatal form were excluded.ResultsTen patients were included in the treated group (year of birth: 2006–2012), and 16 patients in the untreated group [born 1987–2005 (n=15), 2012 (n=1)]. The median age at neurological onset was 9 months (5–18) in the treated group, and 12 months (3–18) in the untreated group (p=0.22). Miglustat therapy was started at a median age of 24.5 months (9–29) and median duration was 30 months (11–56). Gastrointestinal adverse events were reported in 7/10 patients on miglustat. All patients developed loss of psychomotor acquisitions or additional neurological symptoms despite miglustat therapy. The ages of developmental milestones and neurological involvement did not significantly differ between the two groups. Four patients in the untreated group were lost to follow up. The 22 remaining patients had died by the end of the study and no patient survived beyond the age of 7.4 years. The median survival age was 4.42 years in the untreated group and 5.56 years in the treated group; the Kaplan-Meier survival curves were not significantly different (log-rank test: p=0.11).ConclusionsMiglustat allowed no significant long-term neurodevelopmental improvement nor significant increase of survival in patients with early infantile NP-C.
Moral disengagement, self-control and callous-unemotional traits as predictors of cyberbullying : A moderated mediation model
Authors: Li Haojian , Guo Qi , Hall Deborah , Hu Ping
Published: April 2023

Background Cyberbullying has become more prevalent, more difficult to detect, and more harmful to the victims. Whereas considerable prior work has investigated predictors and consequences of cyberbullying, additional research is needed to better understand the mechanisms by which these factors relate to cyberbullying perpetration and victimization. The goal of the present study was to examine the extent to which the link between individual differences in moral disengagement and cyberbullying perpetration is mediated by low self-control and, if so, whether this mediation effect varies by individuals’ degree of callous-unemotional traits.Method To explore these questions, we collected online survey data from a sample of 860 Chinese internet users aged 18 years old or older.Result As hypothesized, a significant positive relation between moral disengagement and cyberbullying emerged that was mediated by individual differences in self-control. Additionally, evidence of moderated mediation was found. That is, the indirect effect varied by degree of callous-unemotional traits, with a significantly stronger mediation effect (and association between self-control and cyberbullying) for individuals who were relatively higher in callous-unemotional traits.Conclusion We conclude that moral disengagement partially predicts cyberbullying through self-control, while callous-unemotional traits moderate the pathway between self-control and cyberbullying.
Perspectives of Elite Esports Players and Staff Members Regarding the Effects of Esports on Health – a Qualitative Study
Authors: Pereira Ana , Bolling Caroline , Birch Phil , Figueiredo Pedro , Verhagen Evert , Brito João
Published: April 2023

Background: Recently, esports have been argued to impact esports players' health, particularly for those competing at higher levels. Esports are a relatively new phenomenon, and an inside perspective regarding esports players' needs and experiences is essential to promote adequate health support for this population. Thus, in this qualitative study, we explored the perspectives of elite esports players and staff members regarding the effects of esports participation on health. Ten semi-structured interviews were performed with members of the Portuguese FIFA (i.e., FIFA EA Sports®) eFootball National team (i.e., 5 elite electronic football players, 1 world-class electronic football player, 2 coaches, and 2 members of the esports department). Data analysis was undertaken following the principles of thematic analysis.
Results: We identified two major themes: physical health and mental health. Esports-related factors such as gaming, competition, and performance were said to impact mental health, while equipment, facilities, and esports-related sitting time affect physical health. To minimise those risks, six main strategies were suggested: optimising and scheduling esports training, improving lifestyle habits with an emphasis on physical health, having other activities besides esports, getting social support, enhancing facilities and equipment, and getting clinical support, particularly with a mental health professional.
Conclusion: Esports players and staff members are concerned and aware of esports' mental and physical demands. Understanding what esports players need and perceive about their health and their proposed strategies for health promotion might help define and prioritise healthcare needs, which could help players and the broad esports community.
Animal Synchrony and agents’ segregation
Authors: Dunbar Robin I.M. , Schaposnik Laura P. , Hsu Sheryl
Published: April 2023

In recent years it has become evident the need of understanding how failure of coordination imposes constraints on the size of stable groups that highly social mammals can live in. We examine here the forces that keep animals together as a herd and others that drive them apart. In particular, different genders have different rates of gut fill, causing them to spend different amounts of time eating and performing other activities. By modeling a group as a set of semi-coupled oscillators on a disc, we show that the members of the group may become less and less coupled until the group devolves and breaks apart.
Optimization and characterization of antileukemic L-asparaginase produced by Fusarium solani endophyte
Authors: Osama Sarah Mohamed , Sherei Moshera El , Al-Mahdy Dalia Adel , Bishr Mokhtar , Salama Osama Mohamed , Raafat Marwa Mahmoud
Published: April 2023

L-asparaginase is an antileukemic enzyme that hydrolyzes L-asparagine into L-aspartic acid and ammonia, causing leukemia cell starvation and apoptosis in susceptible leukemic cell populations. Currently, L-asparaginase obtained from bacterial sources is constrained by several issues, including lesser productivity, stability, selectivity, and higher toxicity. The goal of this study is to provide fungal L-asparaginase with in-vitro effectiveness towards different human carcinomas. L-asparaginase from endophytic Fusarium solani (Gene Bank accession number MW209717) isolated from the roots of the medicinal plant Hedera helix L. was characterized and optimized experimentally for maximum L-asparaginase production in addition to evaluating its subsequent cytotoxicity towards acute monocytic leukemia and human skin fibroblast cell lines. The enzyme production was maximized using potato dextrose media at the 5th and 6th days of fermentation with incubation temperature 30 ℃ with 3% asparagine. Enzyme characterization studies revealed that the enzyme maintained its thermal stability with temperatures up to 60 ℃. Results revealed promising cytotoxic activity against acute monocytic leukemia with IC50 = 3.66 µg/ml with low cytotoxicity against tested normal human skin fibroblast cell line which suggested that it might have selective toxicity, and consequently it could be used as a less toxic alternative to the current formulations.
Rice field purification regulates carp intestinal flora to improve muscle mass
Authors: Zhou Ya , Xiong Yang , He Xianlin , Xue Xiaoshu , Tang Guo , Zhao LiuLan , Liu Qiao , Zhang Chi , Yang Song , Mei Jie
Published: April 2023

Background: To explore the mechanism underlying suitable rice purification time and the resulting regulation of muscle mass in fish raised in rice paddies, 16S rDNA and metabolomics methods were used to perform analyses of intestinal microbial diversity and muscle metabolome in common carp.
Results: There were significant differences in Chao1 and observed OTUs indices between groups C and D and between groups A and E (p< 0.05), and the Shannon indices of Group A were significantly lower than those of groups B, D, and E (p < 0.05). The dominant genera were Cetobacterium, ZOR0006, Romboutsia, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, and Pirellulaceae_unclassified. Metabolites that differed between groups were mainly enriched in biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, purine metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism.
Conclusions: In summary, rice purification significantly improved the composition of the intestinal flora of the carp and increased the abundance and diversity of intestinal microorganisms. Rice purification can regulate carp purine metabolism and promote the production of more umami substances such as Guanosine monophosphate (GMP) and can increase muscle mass by inhibiting the production of Hypoxanthine (Hx) and inosine from Inosine-5‘-monophosphate (IMP). Rice field purification improved muscle mass in the carp by increasing the abundance of probiotics in the intestines.
Two-dimensional Animation Film Vision Innovation Based on VR Technology and Markov chain model
Authors: Song Dan
Published: April 2023

People have always longed for the virtual world, and the new information technology is also affecting the way people explore the virtual world. Since the emergence of VR technology, the form of entertainment has undergone tremendous changes. This technology has even penetrated into the film industry, causing some two-dimensional movies to be affected. At present, intelligent system technology is widely used in various industries, including aviation, aerospace, medical security and other fields. These fields have relatively high security requirements for intelligent systems, and the requirements will become higher and higher in the future. In order to have a better grasp of the security of the intelligent system, we modeled it and evaluated it through the model. In this research, we established a model of intelligent system by using computer language. This model mainly uses hierarchical modeling and proposes a method for reliability assessment of intelligent systems. In the process of implementation, we used Eclipse to design and formed a basic platform. We can evaluate the reliability of intelligent systems in a relatively short time on this platform, which is simpler than other methods and can save time. The validity of this study can be demonstrated by comparing the performance results with the expected results. Using this platform, we can model and evaluate some instances faster, and the results can be displayed visually. At the same time, we also explored how two-dimensional animated films should change their style.
HPV-L1 capsid protein and human telomerase RNA component gene as markers to predict cervical lesion progression
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Heyue , Ma Jin , Han Ying , Li Linxia
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the significance of human papillomavirus L1 capsid protein (HPV-L1) and human telomerase RNA (hTERC) gene as markers for predicting the progression of cervical lesions. Patients who underwent cervical cancer screening at the gynecological outpatient department of the Seventh People’s Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from April 2014 to December 2016 were included. The HPV-L1 and hTERC was detected in 356 cases with abnormal cervical cytology or positive high-risk HPV (HR-HPV). The expression of hTERC and HPV-L1 in cervical exfoliated cells can be detected by FISH and immunohistochemistry. Patients with normal cervical histology had a hTERC amplification rate of 7.1%. This rate increased to 12.6% for CIN1, 86.1% for CIN2/3, and 100% for ICC (P < 0.001). Patients with normal cervical histology had a rate of 75.0% of HPV-L1 negative expression. This rate was 35.6% for CIN1, 84.7% for CIN2/3, and 100% for ICC (P < 0.001). The expression of HPV-L1(+) /hTERC(-) was 37.7% for normal, 46.8% for CIN1, 15.6% for CIN2/3, and 0% for ICC (P < 0.001). HPV-L1(-) /hTERC(+) expression was 4.6% in the normal group, 3.4% for CIN1, 63.5% for CIN2/3, and 100% for ICC (P < 0.001). In conclusion, as cervix lesions progress, the expression of hTERC is up-regulated while HPV-L1 is down-regulated. Combined detection of HPV-L1 and hTERC may help to predict the progression of cervical lesions.
Not brushing teeth at night may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease
Authors: Isomura Emiko Tanaka , Suna Shinichiro , Kurakami Hiroyuki , Hikoso Shungo , Uchihashi Toshihiro , Yokota Yusuke , Sakata Yasushi , Tanaka Susumu
Published: April 2023

In this study, we investigated whether tooth brushing timing affects cardiovascular disease risk. We enrolled 1,675 patients aged ≥ 20 years who were hospitalized for treatment, examination, or medical treatment. The participants were categorized based on tooth brushing: Group MN (brushing teeth after waking up and at night, n = 409), Group N (brushing teeth at night but not upon waking up, n = 751), Group M (brushing teeth after waking up but not at night, n = 164), and Group None (not brushing teeth at all, n = 259). The participants’ age, sex, smoking history, and follow-up results, was evaluated. Group M had four times as many men as women. Multivariate analysis of cardiovascular events showed significantly higher survival estimates in Group MN (P = 0.021) and Group N (P = 0.004) than those in Group None. Kaplan–Meier analysis of subgroups based on smoking status revealed that smokers in Group None had a significantly worse prognosis for cardiovascular onset events than smokers in other groups; non-smokers in Groups None and M showed a significantly worse prognosis on hospitalization. Our findings are limited to cardiovascular diseases and cannot be generalized to healthy populations. However, we suggest that brushing teeth at night is important for lowering cardiovascular disease risk.
COVID-19 Hospitalizations with and without Psoriasis
Authors: Naeem Unaiza , Akhlaq Anum , Mushahid Hasan , Edigin Ehizogie
Published: April 2023

Background: Psoriasis is an autoimmune chronic skin condition and as suggested by some recent studies, the inflammatory condition might be exacerbated with COVID-19. However, the relationship between psoriasis and COVID-19 infection needs to be investigated further. In our retrospective cohort study, we have attempted to delineate clinical outcomes in COVID-19 hospitalized patients with psoriasis.
Methods: Using the 2020 National Inpatient Sample (NIS), we obtained demographic and clinical data and analyzed a total of 1050040 primary COVID-19 adult hospitalizations in the US. We used weighted logistic and linear regression models to determine the association of psoriasis with various clinical outcomes. The models were adjusted for age, sex, race, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics. Using Stata 16.1 (StataCorp, College Station, TX), we accounted for survey design complexity by incorporating sampling weights, primary sampling units, and strata.
Results: The psoriasis cohort comprised 5365 (0.511%) patients. For our primary outcome, there was no significant difference between hospital mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with and without psoriasis (11.18% in non-psoriasis patients vs 9.98% in the psoriasis patients, adjusted odds ratio: [aOR]; 0.93; 95% CI: 0.75 -1.16, p=0.54). Some clinical outcomes were worse for psoriasis patients, and these also had a higher resource utilization.
Conclusion: Overall, COVID-19 outcomes do not differ significantly for hospitalized patients with psoriasis than those without. However, psoriatic patients’ trajectory might be affected more owing to higher comorbidities, indicating severe illness.