bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 900y Annual Temperature Reconstruction for the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau from Tree Ring Width of Juniperus saltuaria
Authors: Xu Shanshan , Shang Zhiyuan , Zheng Chaogang , Zhang Zhigang , Kong Xinggong , Zhao Zhijun
Published: April 2024

Two annually resolved and absolutely dated Juniperus saltuaria (JS) tree ring width chronologies from the Haizi mountain, southeastern TP were reported in here. We sampled two sites in different landscapes, one is located at the forest line at ca. 4200 m above sea level beside an incised valley, and the other at the plateau surface, ca. 4500 m in elevation. Comparisons of statistical parameters between two sites and their tree ring index correlation coefficient with meteorologic data of DaoCheng shows that the latter site exhibits higher value than the former one. These indicate that those trees growing along the valley side may be more susceptible to local environment, and those on the plateau surface can provide reliable record for regional climate. Based on the latter chronology, a 903a long annual mean temperature (Tmean) series (1115-2017 CE) was reconstructed. It is the longest width chronology reconstructed by JS at present. The entire sequence shows consistent warm-cold patterns with other temperature reconstructions of the TP, Asia, and Northern Hemisphere. The warmest (coldest) period occurred at 1998-2017 CE (1115-1145 CE), respectively. There was no doubt that temperature raised sharply since the end of the 20th century. In addition, the sequence demonstrates multi-decadal, decadal and inter-decadal variations, further multi-taper method reveals dominant periodicities are 147, 36, 18, 7 and 2-2.6a, likely been affected by the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and solar activity. The forcing of volcanic eruptions resulted to subsequent 1-3 years temperature drops.
TERT Promoter Mutations Contribute to Adverse Clinical Outcomes and Poor Prognosis in Radioiodine Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Tan Gongxun , Jin Bingquan , Qian Xiaoqin , Zhang Guoliang , Agyekum Enock Adjei , Wang Feng , Shi Liang , Zhang Yue , Mao Zhenwei , Shi Chunhe , Xu Ying , Li Xiuying , Zhang Lele , Li Shaohua
Published: April 2024

Telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter (TERTp) mutations are associated with non-radioiodine avidity. However, the role of these mutations in the clinical outcomes of patients with radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RAIR-DTC) remains unknown. Herein, we aimed to analyze gene mutations and clinical manifestations to verify TERTp’s role in driving disease progression to RAIR-DTC and clinical outcomes. Next-generation sequencing data and clinical data were obtained from 243 patients with DTC. Of the 25 patients with TERTp mutations, 80% (20/25) had RAIR-DTC. RAIR-DTC was significantly less prevalent in patients with BRAFV600E (9/143, 6.3%) than those with both BRAFV600E and TERTp mutations (14/17, 82.4%). Patients with RAIR-DTC harboring both BRAFV600E and TERTp mutations had a higher rate of having >3 distant metastatic sites (71.4%, 10/14) than those with BRAFV600E alone (11.1%, 1/9). Only one patient with both BRAFV600E and TERTp mutations had non-RAIR-DTC. Time from initial radioactive iodine therapy to RAIR-DTC diagnosis was significantly shorter in patients with TERTp mutations than in those without. Patients with BRAFV600E and TERTp mutations progressed faster to RAIR-DTC than those with BRAFV600E alone (p<0.01). Our findings suggest that molecular testing for TERTp and other mutations like BRAFV600E may inform early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies before progression to RAIR-DTC.
Novel resistance loci for quantitative resistance to Septoria tritici blotch in Asian wheat (Triticum aestivum) via genome-wide association study
Authors: Patial Madhu , He Xinyao , Navathe Sudhir , Kamble Umesh , Kumar Manjeet , Joshi Arun Kumar , Singh Pawan Kumar
Published: April 2024

Septoria tritici blotch (STB), caused by the ascomycete fungus Zymoseptoria tritici, poses severe challenges to wheat cultivation worldwide. Deployment of resistant cultivars renders a practical way to control this disease. Therefore, the identification of resistant sources and genes/QTLs is imperative. We attempted to elucidate the genomic architecture for adult-plant STB resistance in a Septoria Association Mapping Panel (SAMP), which has 181 cultivars and advanced breeding genotypes from bread wheat breeding programs in India and Bangladesh. Field experiments identified several accessions such as BGD52 (CHIR7/ANB//CHIR1), BGD54 (CHIR7/ANB//CHIR1), IND92 (WH 1218), IND8 (DBW 168) and IND75 (PBW 800) possessing high levels of resistance. Genetic analysis indicated 21 stable quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) for STB resistance on all wheat chromosomes except 2D, 3A, 3D, 4A, 4D, 5D, 6B, 6D and 7A, most of which were found on previously identified chromosome regions for STB resistance. Three QTNs exhibited bigger phenotypic effects and were identified in all three experiments, including Q.STB.5A.1, Q.STB.5B.1and Q.STB.5B.3. Additionally, QTNs on chromosomes 1A (Q.STB.1A.1), 2A (Q.STB_DH.2A.1, Q.STB.2A.3), 2B (Q.STB.2B.4), 5A (Q.STB.5A.1, Q.STB.5A.2) and 7B (Q.STB.7B.2) might represent novel resistance QTL. The resistant genotypes and molecular markers identified in the present study could be used for STB resistance breeding programmes around the globe.
Background
Septoria tritici blotch (STB) disease causes yield losses of up to 50 per cent in susceptible wheat cultivars and can pose serious threat to wheat production. In this study, genomic architecture for adult-plant STB resistance in a Septoria Association Mapping Panel (SAMP) having 181 cultivars and genomic regions governing STB resistance in a South Asian wheat panel were looked for.
Results
The study found STB resistance sources, genomic regions, QTLs, haplotypes, pleiotropic SNPs, and candidate genes in Asian bread wheat genotypes. Five of the discovered QTNs i.e. on chromosomes 1A (Q.STB.1A.1), 2A (Q.STB_DH.2A.1, Q.STB.2A.3), 2B (Q.STB.2B.4), 5A (Q.STB.5A.1, Q.STB.5A.2) and 7B (Q.STB.7B.2) were potentially unique.
Conclusion
Our findings demonstrate the importance of Asian bread wheat as a source of STB resistance alleles and novel stable QTNs for wheat breeding initiatives to generate durable and broad-spectrum Z. tritici-resistant wheat cultivars.
Heat transfer characteristics resembling thermal semiconductor of expressway embankment with ventilation and open-block layer in warm and high-altitude permafrost regions
Authors: Yuan Chang , Yu Qihao , Li Dongwei , Guo Lei , Lei Lele , Zhenhua Wang , Lai Yuanming
Published: April 2024

Active cooling measures has been widely used to protect the underlying permafrost and maintain the embankment stability. Based on the measured data of high-grade highway experimental demonstration engineering in the Beiluhe area on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the heat transfer process and ground temperature response have been analyzed to reveal the thermal control mechanism of the expressway embankment with ventilation and open block layer. (1) Heat was transferred through the block layer in both horizontal and vertical directions by different driving modes. In the horizontal direction, heat was transferred by forced convection under the driving of the local prevailing wind. In the vertical direction, heat was transferred upward by natural convection in the cold season and downward by heat conduction in the warm season under the driving of temperature gradient between the upper and lower boundaries of the block layer. (2) The expressway embankment structure showed the thermal semiconductor effect in both directions. The horizontal and vertical equivalent heat conductivity in the cold period was approximately 6.25 times and 3.5 times of that in the warm period. (3) The underlying frozen soil foundation was provided a net heat released state, and the total released heat was approximately 1.2 times of the total heat absorption. As the result, thick and wide cold permafrost layer (T<-1.0℃) was generated gradually, permafrost table increased and ground temperature decreased generally. This expressway embankment with ventilation duct and block layer contributed to protect the underlying permafrost layer and improve the stability of the frozen soil foundation in the warm and high-altitude permafrost regions.
Estimation of Smallholder Farmers’ Demand for Certified Seed: Evidence From Wheat and Tef Seed Systems in Ethiopia
Authors: Gemechu Abera , Gemechu Bekele , Kaske Karta
Published: April 2024

The previous studies conducted in Ethiopia have mainly concentrated on the adoption of tef and wheat crops, along with complementary inputs. However, there has been a notable gap in research when it comes to examining the factors that influence the demand for certified seeds in the country. The study aimed to assess the factors that influence farmers' decisions to purchase certified seeds and the quantity of certified seeds purchased by tef and wheat farmers. Data were collected from 186 randomly selected sample farmers using a multistage sampling approach. A double hurdle model was used to analyze the data, considering that the decisions to participate in certified seed purchase and the quantity of purchased are influenced by different factors. The results showed that household size, tef farming experience, and proximity to cooperative office, age, and land size had a significant effect on the likelihood of purchasing certified tef seeds. Education level, distance to extension office, certified wheat seed price, and extension contacts were found to significantly influenced the decision to purchase certified wheat seeds. Furthermore, education level, land size, certified tef and wheat seed price, livestock ownership were significantly influenced both quantity of certified tef and wheat seeds purchased. In conclusion, enhancing farmers' skills, ensuring local seed availability through collective actions, and implementing a seed price subsidy program could enhance crop productivity for farmers with limited resources. The study suggests that farmers' seed producer cooperatives and private seed suppliers should be encouraged to increase their involvement in producing certified self-pollinated seeds.
Broadband nonlinear phonon-laser frequency comb
Authors: Xiao Guangzong , Feng Zijian , Kuang Tengfang , Huang Ran , He Yutong , Chen Xinlin , Zuo Yunlan , Han Xiang , Xiong Wei , Tan Zhongqi , Ganesan Adarsh , Nori Franco , Qiu Cheng-Wei , Luo Hui , Jing Hui
Published: April 2024

Optical frequency combs have received increasing attention, thanks to their fundamental importance in optical computing, communication, sensing and metrology. Recently, thermal phonon counterparts of frequency combs have shown ~102 comb teeth and ~103 teeth spacing, and limited to the high-frequency range over 100 kHz. In contrast, we report the first truly coherent acoustic frequency comb (AFC), with simultaneous giant enhancements in comb teeth number and teeth spacing, reaching the record teeth number of 10^4, covering six orders of magnitude in frequency; thus enabling a wide range of typical applications as force sensing, deep-sea monitoring or biomedical ultrasonics. In such a single device, two kinds of nonlinear couplings can emerge, i.e., the gain-assisted light-motion coupling and the mechanical wave mixing, the interplay of which can be flexibly tuned by rotating the angle of the membrane. Therefore, a single device could achieve a coherent switch from the multi-color phonon lasing regime to the coherent AFC regime, with almost perfectly uniform comb teeth. This work presents the first example merging phonon lasers and AFCs, and can stimulate more efforts on making and operating high-quality coherent AFC chips for diverse applications, by using phonon lasers already achieved in such diverse systems as membranes, levitated spheres, photonic crystals, semiconductor lattices, and cold ions.
Extraction of lineaments using satellite imagery for a seismic zone of the Sarpol Zahab Region
Authors: Ali Randa , Elubid Basheer A. , Dafalla Dafalla S. , Kamran Muhammad , Aldoud Abdelmottaleb A. , Wu Xiyong , Chen Qiang
Published: April 2024

The work focused on the results of the automated extraction of lineaments and the study of geology and structural geology in the Sarpol Zahab region. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to extract faults and structural geology. We used principal component analysis (PCA) and directional filtering techniques applied to the Landsat 8 OLI satellite image to extract lineaments and structural geology in the study area. The shading was used to create a lineament map and a map of the structural geology of the research region. The predominant direction of the faults and lineaments is NW-SE. The density maps show a large concentration in the northwest, Southeast, and southern parts of the Sarpol Zahab area (near the MFF). We have validated these results by comparing them with geological maps and two validation criteria. First, the lithological component shows that the lineaments are often concentrated on rocks, as in the NW-SE trending surface anticlines of limestones in the Southeast and the Oligocene to Miocene sandstones and conglomerates in the West. Another component is the overlay of the lineaments on the slope map. This shows a conspicuous concentration of lineaments where the slopes are steep, and the sudden slope change is most likely the result of faulting activity. The structural lineament extraction method is acknowledged as a benefit for this kind of study and is thought to be a utility reference method with accuracy in striatal lineament selection.
Identification and analysis of co-disease genes between COVID-19 and osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Liu Ninghao , Li Dawei , Zheng Yingjie
Published: April 2024

Background: The molecular mechanisms of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and osteoarthritis (OA) are unclear, and there is an urgent need to identify new biomarkers and explore their potential molecular mechanisms in COVID-19 and OA.
Methods: The GSE57218, GSE157103 training sets and the GSE82107, GSE171110 validation sets were acquired via gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. First, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between disease and normal samples in the GSE57218 and GSE157103 training sets were respectively sifted out by differential expression analysis. The modules with the highest correlation with OA and normal, COVID-19 and non COVID-19 were gained by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), individually. Then, OA-DEGs were intersected with the module genes that had significant correlation with OA, and COVID-19-DEGs were intersected with the module genes which were dramatically correlated with COVID-19 to yield OA-intersected genes and COVID-19 intersected genes, respectively. The OA-intersected genes and COVID-19 intersected genes were intersected to yield candidate genes, and they were analyzed for function enrichment analysis. Next, the seven algorithms (Closeness, MCC, Degree, MNC, Radality, Stress and EPC) were performed on candidate genes to sift out biomarkers. Finally, we constructed the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), transcription factor (TF)/miRNA-mRNA and drug-target regulatory networks.
Results:There were 1135 OA-DEGs and 4336 COVID-19-DEGs between disease and normal samples in the GSE57218 and GSE157103 training sets, respectively. The pink, blue and brown modules had significant correlations with OA in the GSE57218 training set, while in the GSE157103 training set, the pink and brown modules were notably correlated with COVID-19. We finally yield 715 OA-intersected genes and 2282 COVID-19-intersected genes. After intersecting the above two intersected genes, we gained 106 candidate genes, and they were involved in ADP metabolic process, nucleoside diphosphate phosphorylation, etc.. The 7 biomarkers, namely AK1, APP, ENO1, TPI1, HSP90B1, HSPB1 and ESR1, were acquired based on seven algorithms. Finally, we successfully constructed the ceRNA, TF/miRNA-mRNA and drug-target networks.
Conclusion: Through bioinformatic methods, we explored the biomarkers (AK1, APP, ENO1, TPI1, HSP90B1, HSPB1 and ESR1) of COVID-19 combined OA, providing new ideas for studies related to molecular mechanisms and treatment of comorbidity.
Artificial fingerprints engraved through block-copolymers as nanoscale physical unclonable functions for authentication and identification
Authors: Milano Gianluca , Murataj Irdi , Magosso Chiara , Carignano Stefano , Fretto Matteo , Lupi Federico Ferrarese
Published: April 2024

Besides causing financial losses and damage to the brand's reputation, counterfeiting can threaten the health system and global security. In this context, physical unclonable functions (PUFs) have been proposed to overcome limitations of current anti-counterfeiting technologies. Here, we report on artificial fingerprints that can be directly engraved on a wide range of substrates through self-assembled block-copolymer templating for secure authentication and identification. We show that engraved nanopatterns are unclonable unique objects that endow high encoding capacity density while satisfying main requirements of PUFs, including high aging and thermal stability. Besides showing that these nanopatterns can be encoded in binary code matrices with high entropy and high uniqueness, we propose a strategy for robust authentication and identification in real-world scenarios based on computer vision concepts. These results can shed new light on the realization of PUFs embracing the inherent stochasticity of self-assembled materials at the nanoscale.
Integration of Mendelian Randomization to Explore the Genetic Influences of Pediatric Sepsis: A Focus on RGL4, ATP9A, MAP3K7CL, and DDX11L2
Authors: Zhang Liuzhao , Chu Quanwang , Jiang Shuyue , Shao Bo
Published: April 2024

This study delves into the genetic underpinnings of pediatric sepsis, focusing on the association and potential mechanisms of action of four key genes: RGL4, ATP9A, MAP3K7CL, and DDX11L2. Utilizing a combination of differential expression analysis, Mendelian Randomization (MR), immune cell infiltration analysis, and validation through independent datasets, we aimed to elucidate the roles these genes play in the pathophysiology of sepsis and their implications for immune response modulation. Our findings reveal that RGL4 and ATP9A are upregulated in sepsis cases, suggesting their involvement in exacerbating the condition through the promotion of inflammatory responses. Conversely, MAP3K7CL and DDX11L2 are downregulated, indicating their potential protective effects against sepsis by modulating immune responses and preventing excessive inflammation. The MR analysis, particularly employing the Inverse Variance Weighted method, provided evidence for the causal relationship between these genes and sepsis risk, highlighting their significance in the disease's genetic landscape. These genes represent promising biomarkers for sepsis risk stratification and prognosis, offering new avenues for early detection and personalized treatment strategies. This research contributes to the understanding of the genetic factors influencing pediatric sepsis and opens up potential pathways for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions, aiming to improve patient outcomes in this challenging clinical condition.
Discovery of host genetic factors through multi-locus GWAS against Toxoplasmosis in sheep: Addressing One Health perspectives
Authors: YAMAN Yalçın , BAY Veysel , KİŞİ Yiğit Emir
Published: April 2024

T. gondii stands as one of the most successful pathogens, capable of infecting nearly all warm-blooded species. It is estimated that up to 50% of human populations could harbor Toxoplasmosis infections. Among the primary transmission routes is the consumption of tissue cysts from infected food-producing farm animals. Thus, controlling Toxoplasmosis in farm animals is of vital importance for public health and food safety. The implementation of selective breeding in farm animals, where available, could serve as an effective complementary strategy for eradicating Toxoplasmosis from herds. For this purpose, we conducted four multi-locus genome-wide association (GWA) approaches to uncover the underlying polygenic factors involved in innate resistance to Toxoplasmosis in naturally infected sheep. Our findings indicate that 16 SNPs significantly influence host immunity against T. gondii infection. This study marks the initial exploration of host genetic factors against Toxoplasmosis in livestock, utilizing the ovine paradigm as its foundation.
Numerical solution of nonlinear multi-term weakly singular fractional Volterra integro-differential equations using Jacobi collocation method
Authors: Haddam Qasim Hadi , Najafi Esmaeil , Sohabi Saeed
Published: April 2024

‎This paper deals with the numerical solution of a class of nonlinear multi-term weakly singular fractional Volterra integro-differential equations by ‎Jacobi ‎collocation method based on the orthogonal polynomials‎. ‎Since the solution of the proposed equation is not smooth enought ‎in the origin‎, thus t‎he ‎idea ‎of ‎the ‎smoothing ‎transformation ‎is ‎used ‎on the equation ‎‎to ‎incearse ‎the ‎smoothness ‎of ‎the ‎solution. ‎‎We ‎represent‎ an operator-based ‎discus‎sion ‎of ‎smoothing ‎transformation ‎an‎d Gauss-Jacobi ‎quadrature‎ ‎for ‎Riemann-‎Liou‎ville ‎integral ‎operators‎ ‎and ‎weakly ‎singular ‎integral ‎operators ‎using ‎their ‎similar ‎constructions‎ ‎and ‎extend ‎it ‎to ‎the ‎error ‎analysis ‎of ‎the ‎proposed ‎method ‎and ‎obtain ‎an ‎error ‎bound ‎for ‎the ‎discrete ‎collocation ‎solution. ‎To ‎test ‎the ‎efficiency ‎and ‎accuracy, ‎‎‎various ‎numerical ‎examples ‎are ‎solved ‎by‎ the ‎pr‎oposed ‎method and the ‎obtained‎ ‎error‎ results are in accordance with the ‎convergence ‎analysis ‎of ‎the ‎method.‎‎‎‎‎‎
2020 MSC: 26A33, 65R20, 65M70
Model-based Assembly Process Planning for Flexible Aircraft Cabin Architectures
Authors: Ghanjaoui Yassine , Satwan Philip , Biedermann Jörn , Nagel Björn
Published: April 2024

The configuration and equipment of an aircraft cabin has a significant impact on the passenger's flight experience. In order to meet the needs of passengers and improve the flight experience, airlines repeatedly demand customised adaptations to the cabin design. The implementation of these changes requires a high degree of flexibility in production and can lead to difficulties in setting up a fixed final assembly line. In addition, unforeseen events and changes in the OEMs' supply chain require a rapid response in aircraft production in order to be able to deliver on time. Digitalisation in product development and production planning makes it possible to overcome these challenges and makes an important contribution to flexibility, time and cost efficiency. This paper presents a digital approach to modeling and flexible planning of assembly processes of the cabin. To this end, aircraft design data is automatically linked to the assembly system in order to react quickly to design changes in the assembly planning process. The integration is realized in a system architecture model depicted with the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). The architecture model follows the formal process description defined in VDI3682. A planning algorithm then uses the production architecture parameters to optimise the assembly processes, e.g. in terms of time. The approach presented is demonstrated using the example of scheduling the pre-assembly processes of the "crown module". The latter includes all structural and functional components above the window panels, such as overhead bins, electrics and air conditioning. The results show how changes in aircraft and cabin design or in the production plant and resources can be flexibly evaluated. This allows conceptual changes to be evaluated and traded before the cabin design is frozen and transferred to real production. These advantages contribute to the time and cost optimisation of aircraft production. This work thus makes a valuable contribution to the further development of digital solutions in aircraft production.
Can the Family Doctor Contracted Service System Improve the Health of Migrants? A Cross-Sectional Study in China
Authors: Liu Sijia , Hu Jiajing
Published: April 2024

China's rapid urbanization and internal migration have increased the need for effective healthcare services for migrants. This study investigated the potential of China's family doctor contracted service system to improve migrant health, considering the unique healthcare access challenges they face. Using data from the China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS) 2018, a cross-sectional analysis was conducted to assess the impact of the family doctor contracted service system on migrant health while also considering the mediating role of health education in this relationship. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and a double machine learning model to estimate treatment effects. The analysis revealed a positive association between the family doctor contracted service system and migrant self-rated health status. Machine learning models consistently supported this finding, indicating the system's role in enhancing migrants' health perceptions. Furthermore, health education emerged as a significant mediator, with family doctor contracted services positively influencing migrants' access to health education, subsequently improving their health status. China's family doctor contracted service system holds promise for addressing health disparities among migrants. Strengthening promotion efforts, enhancing health education, and implementing effective policy evaluation mechanisms are crucial for leveraging primary healthcare initiatives to mitigate health disparities among migrants in China.
Hydroponic Fertilizers as a Growth Media for Chlorella vulgaris for Producing Affordable Protein in Developing Countries
Authors: Nugroho Wahyunanto Agung , Rofiq Hanaul , Estuwilujeng Arrahmadiana , Wibisono Yusuf , Bilad Muhammad Roil
Published: April 2024

Chlorella vulgaris stands out as a promising microalga for single-cell protein production, particularly due to its potential to address the need for affordable nutrition in less developed regions. Given this context, the quest for more economical fertilization methods is essential. Among the viable alternatives, hydroponic fertilizer (HF) emerges as a widely available option, particularly in regions such as Indonesia. Typically, HF is supplied in two distinct forms: powdered Mix-A and Mix-B to prepare the stock solutions. This study investigates the impact of varying concentrations and stock solution ratios on both the growth rate and biomass yield of Chlorella vulgaris. Additionally, an economic analysis of cultivation activities is conducted, with a specific focus on comparing the feasibility of utilizing hydroponic fertilizer against conventional methods. The findings reveal that specific ratios and concentrations of the tested growth media outperform standard mediums in promoting the growth rate and biomass yield of cultivated Chlorella vulgaris. Furthermore, the economic analysis assesses two primary cost components: fertilizer and energy. Remarkably, the study demonstrates that all tested hydroponic mediums offer a more cost-effective cultivation solution compared to the conventional methods, primarily attributed to the lower cost of the hydroponic fertilizers.
Efficient Removal of Cd 2+ ions and Methylene Blue from Aqueous Solutions by Polyanionic Sodium Alginate-derived Hydrogel
Authors: Kamal Kholod H. , Hassan Mohamed A. , Kamel Samir , El-Sayed Naglaa Salem
Published: April 2024

The ever-increasing water pollution by synthetic dyes, heavy metals, and other organic contaminants are critical environmental issues that receive the world attention. Considering the purification technology based on adsorption, the fabrication of efficient adsorbents for the effective separation and removal of water contaminants is urgently required. Here, we developed a polyanionic superabsorbent hydrogel by graft copolymerization of methacrylic acid, acrylamide, and 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid onto sodium alginate. In this study, the capacity of as-prepared hydrogel to remove Cd2+ ions and methylene blue from aqueous solutions was investigated using batch equilibrium experiments. In this regard, the effect of different contact times, pH, sorbent dosage, contaminant concentrations, temperature, and salinity on the hydrogel adsorption capacity was studied. To understand the hydrogel sorption behavior, the adsorption kinetics using pseudo-first-order, intraparticle diffusion, Elovich models, Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherms were employed. The hydrogel achieved remarkable removal efficiencies for methylene blue up to 131.5 mg/g (97.5%) and 526 mg/g for Cd2+ ions (87%). More interestingly, the regeneration experiment validated the reusability of SAH. These findings highlight the potential of SAH hydrogel for the effective removal of Cd2+ ions and methylene blue from water treatment applications.
RETRACTED: Extraction and Characterization of Cellulose from Stipa Tenacissima as a Promising Advanced Reinforcement Material
Authors: Nague Ikrame , loudifa Fatima-ezzahra , Zazouli Sofia , Moubarik Amine , laallam Latifa , Jouaiti Ahmed
Published: April 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A case report of anaphylaxis caused by initial administration of rasburicase resulting in death just before the treatment of diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Utsu Yoshikazu , Kaneda Natsuho , Kawakami Makio , Masuda Shin-ichi , Arai Hironori , Shimoji Sonoko , Matsumoto Rena , Tsushima Takafumi , Tanaka Kazusuke , Matsuo Kosuke , Kimeda Chiharu , Konno Shiho , Aotsuka Nobuyuki
Published: April 2024

Background:
Rasburicase has potent efficacy in controlling uric acid and is widely used to prevent tumor lysis syndrome in high-risk patients owing to its low toxicity profile. However, the safety of rasburicase re-administration has not been established due to the risk of anaphylaxis mediated by antibody production. However, reports of such reactions upon the initial administration of rasburicase are scarce.
Case presentation:
A 71-year-old Japanese female who had been diagnosed with diffuse large B cell lymphoma with a large tumor burden experienced anaphylactic shock leading to death that occurred upon initial administration of rasburicase just before the chemotherapy. The patient had several unfavorable characteristics that resulted in a fatal outcome, including a predisposition to allergies. Moreover, there was a large tumor in the posterior mediastinum that, although it would not cause a significant issue under normal circumstances, could severely impact hemodynamics if the patient entered into a state of shock. Chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation resulted in crushing of the tumor. The pre-and postmortem examination revealed that the cause of death was a cascade of events starting with anaphylaxis-induced distributive shock leading to obstructive shock due to collapse of the heart, which was compressed by the tumor. This was further compounded by massive bleeding from the tumor and tension hemothorax, resulting in circulatory collapse.
Conclusions:
Anaphylaxis can lead to lethal outcomes when unfavorable conditions overlap. Clinicians need to carefully assess the indication for rasburicase, considering both the risk of tumor lysis syndrome and the patient’s background risks simultaneously.
Ceratocystis acaciivora = Ceratocystis manginecans and Chalaropsis sp. 1 on Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima) in China
Authors: Li Xue , Liu Yanmei , He Shuqi , Xing Shijun , Huang Qiong
Published: April 2024

During September of 2020, black rot was found on post-harvest Chinese chestnuts from a farmer’s market in Kunming of Yunnan Province, China. Three isolates and two isolates were identified as Ceratocystis acaciivora =Ceratocystis manginecans and Chalaropsis sp. 1, respectively, based on morphology and sequence of 60S, LSU and MCM7. Pathogenicity test and revalidation of Koch’s postulates indicated that two fungus was both the causal agent of black rot disease on Chinese chestnut. This is the first report of C. acaciivora and Chalaropsissp. 1 affecting Chinese chestnut.
Robustness of Entanglement for W and Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger Mixed States
Authors: Zhu Zhen , Lv Guo-Lin , Miao Maoke , Chen Xiao-Yu
Published: April 2024

We study the robustness of entanglement for W and GHZ mixed states of three and four qubits. By using the definition of the robustness of entanglement and constructing multi-partite fully separable states, we obtain the analytical upper bound of the robustness of entanglement. By analyzing the entanglement witness , we obtain the lower bound of the robustness of entanglement. Then we find that the upper bound and the lower bound are fully coincident, which shows that our results are accurate and valuable.
Discriminating craft and industrial beers by untargeted GC-MS metabolomics combined with multivariate statistical analysis
Authors: Ji Xiaoyue , Ji Wensu , Ding Linfei
Published: April 2024

Developing robust analytical methodologies for the discrimination of craft and industrial beers presents a significant yet formidable challenge. The identification and differentiation of products necessitate the utilization of reliable analytical methods, which are indispensable for ensuring market stability and safeguarding consumer interests. In this study, representative beer samples with a significant market share were selected for headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) analysis to compare the volatile substance characteristics of craft and industrial beers. The findings suggested that alcohols and esters constituted the primary volatile compounds. Craft beer exhibited a higher abundance of both types and concentrations of volatile compounds compared to industrial beer. Subsequently, unsupervised and supervised chemometric techniques were employed for further analysis of the data matrix. The orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) method was established to effectively discriminate between industrial and craft beers, enabling the identification of characteristic volatile markers. The untargeted GC-MS metabolomics coupled with multivariate statistical analysis holds promise for the authentication of craft and industrial beers.
Distributed Delay Systems with Oscillations in the Time Histories
Authors: Mielke Adam , Sørensen Mads Peter , Wyller John Andreas
Published: April 2024

We design a Linear Chain Trick (LCT)-algorithm for dynamical systems with distributed time delay where the time histories contain temporal oscillations. The methodology is illustrated by means of an example in population dynamics.
Electrophysiology of Pancreatic Beta Cells: A Comprehensive Review of Ion Channel Function, Electrical Activity, and Secretory Mechanisms
Authors: Oruç Aykut , Oruç Kadriye Yağmur , Altan Mehmet , Sönmez Osman Fuat , Cin Semih
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic beta cells play a crucial role in maintaining glucose homeostasis through the regulation of insulin secretion. The electrophysiological properties of these cells, including ion channel function, electrical activity, and secretory mechanisms, are essential for their proper physiological function. In this comprehensive review, we provide an in-depth analysis of the electrophysiology of pancreatic beta cells. We discuss the various ion channels involved in the generation and modulation of electrical signals, such as voltage-gated ion channels, ATP-sensitive potassium channels, and calcium channels. Additionally, we examine the intricate interplay between intracellular calcium dynamics and insulin release. Furthermore, we explore the physiological and pathological factors that can influence the electrophysiology of pancreatic beta cells. A comprehensive understanding of the electrophysiological mechanisms governing pancreatic beta cell function is crucial for unraveling the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Association between system immune-inflammation index and the risk of all-cause, cancer, and non-cancer mortality in the general population: Results from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2018
Authors: Wu Siyu , Liu Zhao , Li Xing , Gao Shan , Si Zhaoqi , Chen Quan , Xia Peng
Published: April 2024

Background Cancer is a major global public health issue and the second leading cause of death globally following cardiovascular disease. Inflammation plays an essential role in the progression of cancer. The system immune-inflammation index (SII) was recognized as an accurate biomarker reflecting immunoinflammatory status. This study aimed to identify the association between SII with all-cause, cancer and non-cancer mortality among general population in the United States.Methods 25,955 participants (≥ 18 years) were included from 2005–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and were divided into four groups according to the SII quartiles. Weighted multivariate Cox regression was used to assess the correlation between SII and mortality. Subgroup analyses were conducted to identify the effects of other covariates on the relationship between SII and mortality. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) model was subsequently used to explore the dose-response relationship between SII and mortality. Survival analysis was assessed using Kaplan-Meier method.Results In fully adjusted model, the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of individuals in Q4, which indicated the highest immunoinflammatory level, were 1.24 (1.09, 1.41) for all-cause mortality and 1.41 (1.23, 1.63) for non-cancer mortality compared with Q1. Besides, the aHR and 95% CIs in Q2 of SII were 0.70 (0.50, 0.99) and in Q3 were 0.68 (0.52, 0.87) compared with Q1 for cancer mortality. In RCS analysis, non-linear relationships of J-shaped curves were observed in the association between SII with all-cause and non-cancer mortality. Additionally, a U-shaped curve was identified between SII and cancer mortality with a threshold value of 445.22.Conclusion Our findings imply that SII can serve as a potential prognosis indicator among general population. Elevated SII is associated with higher all-cause and non-cancer mortality. Besides, both lower and higher SII can serve as predictive factors for cancer mortality.
Cultural Competence and Associated Factors Among Nurses Working in Public Hospitals of South Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia: A multi-center Cross-sectional study
Authors: Zeleke Tekola Seid , Bazie Getaw Walle , Bekalu Yemane Eshetu , Wondifraw Endalik Bire , Birhanu Tarikua Afework , Wudu Muluken Amare
Published: April 2024

Background: Enhancing cultural competence stands as a cornerstone in the realm of clinical nursing. Consequently, nurses engaging with culturally diverse communities encounter significant challenges. In Ethiopia, nurses providing care often prioritize physical well-being, the therapeutic journey, and medical interventions, while overlooking the critical cultural dimensions of patient care. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the level of cultural competence and its determining factors among nurses employed in public hospitals located in the South Wollo Zone of northeastern Ethiopia.
Methods: A multicenter, institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 629 nurses employed in public hospitals across northeastern Ethiopia. Participants were selected using a simple random sampling method. Data were gathered using a structured, self-administered English version of the Nurse Cultural Competence Scale Questionnaire (NCCSQ), and subsequently entered into Epi-data 4.6 for analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, employing multiple linear regression analysis to identify determining factors.
Result: The participants' overall mean score for cultural competence was 3.198 [95% CI: 3.161, 3.234]. Specifically, factors such as being a female nurse (β = .089, CI: .019–.159), educational level (β = -.084, CI: -.101, -.007), work experience (β = .412, CI: .09–.815), nurse-to-patient ratio (β = 0.081, CI: 0.010–.162), experience with caring for culturally and ethnically diverse patients (β = 0.362, CI: .248–.476), hospital level (β = .699, CI: .496–.903), and attending cultural training (β = .002, CI: .234-.931) were influential in determining the mean score of cultural competence.
Conclusion: In this study, the level of cultural competence was found to be at a moderate level and need more effort. Factors such as gender, years of work experience, nurse-to-patient ratio, experience in caring for culturally and ethnically diverse patients, hospital level, educational attainment, attendance of cultural training, and the presence of a feedback system for cultural competence were identified as predictors of cultural competence level. Sharing experiences from higher-level hospitals to lower-level ones and strengthening cultural competence training sessions for nurses can significantly enhance cultural competence within clinical settings.
An update on non-aureus staphylococci and mammaliicocci in cow milk: unveiling the presence of Staphylococcus borealis and Staphylococcus rostri by MALDI-TOF MS
Authors: Penati Martina , Ulloa Fernando , Locatelli Clara , Monistero Valentina , Pavesi Laura Filippone , Piccinini Renata , Moroni Paolo , Bronzo Valerio , Addis Maria Filippa
Published: April 2024

Non-aureus staphylococci and mammaliicocci (NASM) are microorganisms most frequently isolated from milk. Given their numerosity and complexity, MALDI-TOF MS is one of the preferred species identification approaches. Nevertheless, reference mass spectra for the novel species Staphylococcus borealis were included only recently in the Bruker Biotyper System (MBT) library, and other species of veterinary interest such as S. rostri are still absent. This work provides an updated picture of the NASM species found in milk, gained by retrospectively analyzing the data relating to 21,864 milk samples, of which 6,278 from clinical mastitis (CM), 4,039 from subclinical mastitis (SCM), and 11,547 from herd survey (HS), with a spectrum library including both species. As a result, S. borealis was the second most frequently isolated NASM (17.07%) after S. chromogenes (39.38%) in all sample types, with a slightly higher percentage in CM (21.84%), followed by SCM (17.65%), and HS (14.38%). S. rostri was also present in all sample types (3.34%), reaching 8.43% of all NASM in SCM and showing a significant association (p < 0.01) with this condition. Based on our findings, the presence of S. borealis and S. rostri in milk and their potential association with mastitis has been overlooked, possibly due to the difficulties in differentiating these species from other closely related NASM. Our results indicate that S. borealis might be a more frequent contributor to bovine udder infections than previously thought and that S. rostri should also not be underestimated considering its significant association with SCM.
Integrated Evaluation of Clinical Reproductive Potential Post Embryo Transfer Using Raman Metabolic Spectroscopy of Multistage Culture Medium
Authors: Zhang Shouxin , Jiao Guangzhong , Liang Bo , Yan Wei , Zhang Luping , Huang Shan , Zhang Jun , Kong Lingyin , Bao Hongchu , Liu Xiaoyan
Published: April 2024

Background
Utilizing Raman spectroscopy detection technique for assessing the clinical pregnancy outcomes following in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET).
Methods
A total of 76 couples took part in the research. During their infertility treatment, culture medium samples were collected from 76 embryos (40 pregnancy and 36 non-pregnancy) at both the D3 and D5 stages. In total, 747 Raman spectra were recorded from these samples. The statistical analysis results were evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Area Under the Curve(AUC) to assess the classification performance of the fusion analysis model. The biochemical analysis results involved comparing the significant differences in spectral signal intensities of embryo metabolites corresponding to different pregnancy outcomes.
Results
This study established a fusion analysis model based on Raman spectroscopy data for predicting the pregnancy potential of embryos. The combination model employing Hilbert-PCA, spectrogram concatenation fusion, and SVM achieved an accuracy of over 93%. Furthermore, the statistical analysis results indicated significant differences in Raman spectroscopy features obtained from culture medium samples of embryos with varying pregnancy potentials.
Conclusions
This study utilized non-invasive Raman spectroscopy technology to analyze the metabolic spectra of culture medium across multiple developmental stages. By establishing a fusion analysis model, high-precision prediction of embryo pregnancy potential was achieved.
Trial registration:
This study, with ethical review number 2021 − 384, was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Yuhuangding Hospital, affiliated with Qingdao University.
Analysis on the clinical correlation of lens parameters and choroidal thickness with the severity of primary angle closure disease
Authors: Senthilkumar Vijayalakshmi , Borikar Sayali , Gandhi Niyati Pankaj , Mani Iswarya , Rajendrababu Sharmila
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlation of lens parameters and choroidal thickness(RCS) with the severity of primary angle closure disease(PACD) and also to compare those parameters with the normal population.
Methods: Prospective, cross-sectional hospital-based study. A total of 86 subjects(162 eyes) including 71 study patients(132 eyes) and 15 age-matched controls(30 eyes) were included in the study.The parameters studied were anterior chamber depth(ACD),lens thickness(LT),anterior vault(AV),lens axial factor(LAF),lens position(LP),relative lens position(RLP),lens vault(LV) and RCS thickness.
Results: The mean ACD was significantly shallow in all subtypes of PACG (mean±SD =2.53±0.34mm) compared to controls (4.05±0.16; p=0.0001). Likewise, the mean lens thickness was more in all subtypes of PACD (mean ± SD=4.67 ± 0.26mm) than in normal controls (4.17±0.17mm; p=0.0001). Additionally, PACD patients had higher LV (mean±SD=1174.29±247.87) than in controls (778.23±37.95; p=0.0001), particularly in eyes with AACG (1328.86±77.13). Other biometric parameters like AV, LAF, LP, RLP and RCS thickness revealed a statistically significant difference in PACD compared to the control population(p<0.00001). Pairwise comparison also revealed significant difference in all ocular biometric parameters in AACG compared to other subtypes of PACD.
Conclusion: Lens parameters and choroidal thickness correlated significantly with the severity of PACD.Additionally, patients with AACG represented the most severe variety of PACD with significantly increased LV, critically shallow ACD, much anteriorly placed lens with relatively short AL and increased RCS thickness. Our study highlights the interplay of multiple ocular biometric parameters with the disease severity, suggesting the individualised surgical options in patients with PACD.