bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression of hypoxia-induced stemness and chemoresistance in ovarian tumors
Authors: Munoz-Galvan Sandra , Verdugo-Sivianes Eva M. , Santos-Pereira José M. , Estevez-García Purificación , Carnero Amancio
Published: December 2023

Background: Hypoxia in solid tumors is an important source of chemoresistance that can determine poor patient prognosis. Such chemoresistance relies on the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), and hypoxia promotes their generation through transcriptional activation by HIF transcription factors.
Methods. We used OC cell lines, xenograft models, OC patient samples, transcriptional databases, iPSCs and ATAC-seq.
Results Here, we show that hypoxia induces CSC formation and chemoresistance in ovarian cancer through transcriptional activation of the PLD2 gene. Mechanistically, HIF-1a activates PLD2transcription through hypoxia response elements, and both hypoxia and PLD2overexpression lead to increased accessibility around stemness genes, detected by ATAC-seq, at sites bound by AP-1 transcription factors. This in turn provokes a rewiring of stemness genes, including the overexpression of SOX2, SOX9 or NOTCH1. PLD2 overexpression also leads to decreased patient survival, enhanced tumor growth and CSC formation, and increased iPSCs reprograming, confirming its role in dedifferentiation to a stem-like phenotype. Importantly, hypoxia-induced stemness is dependent on PLD2 expression, demonstrating that PLD2 is a major determinant of de-differentiation of ovarian cancer cells to stem-like cells in hypoxic conditions. Finally, we demonstrate that high PLD2expression increases chemoresistance to cisplatin and carboplatin treatments, both in vitro and in vivo, while its pharmacological inhibition restores sensitivity.
Conclusions. Altogether, our work highlights the importance of the HIF-1a-PLD2 axis for CSC generation and chemoresistance in OC and proposes an alternative treatment for patients with high PLD2 expression.
ACACA reduces lipid accumulation through dual regulation of lipid metabolism and mitochondrial function via AMPK- PPARα- CPT1A axis
Authors: Dong Jian , Li Muzi , Peng Runsheng , Zhang Yuchuan , Qiao Zilin , Sun Na
Published: December 2023

Background
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multifaceted metabolic disorder, whose global prevalence is rapidly increasing. Acetyl CoA carboxylases 1 (ACACA) is the key enzyme that controls the rate of fatty acid synthesis. Hence, it is crucial to investigate the function of ACACA in regulating lipid metabolism during the progress of NAFLD.
Methods
Firstly, a fatty liver mouse model was established by high-fat diet at 2nd, 12th, and 20th week, respectively. Then, transcriptome analysis was performed on liver samples to investigate the underlying mechanisms and identify the target gene of the occurrence and development of NAFLD. Afterwards, lipid accumulation cell model was induced by palmitic acid and oleic acid (PA ∶ OA molar ratio =1 ∶ 2). Next, we silenced the target gene ACACA using small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or the CMS-121 inhibitor. Subsequently, experiments were performed comprehensively the effects of inhibiting ACACA on mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism, as well as on AMPK- PPARα- CPT1A pathway.
Results
This data indicated that the pathways significantly affected by high-fat diet include lipid metabolism and mitochondrial function. Then, we focus on the target gene ACACA. In addition, the in vitro results suggested that inhibiting of ACACA in vitro reduces intracellular lipid accumulation, specifically the content of TG and TC. Furthmore, ACACA ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction and alleviate oxidative stress, including MMP complete, ATP and ROS production, as well as the expression of mitochondria respiratory chain complex (MRC) and AMPK proteins. Meanwhile, ACACA inhibition enhances lipid metabolism through activation of PPARα/CPT1A, leading to a decrease in intracellular lipid accumulation.
Conclusion
Targeting ACACA can reduce lipid accumulation by mediating the AMPK- PPARα- CPT1A pathway, which regulates lipid metabolism and alleviates mitochondrial dysfunction.
Post-transplant cyclophosphamide at 80mg/kg with low dose post-engraftment anti-thymocyte globulin in haploidentical transplantation with myeloablative conditioning
Authors: Hu Jiong , Wang Lining , XU Guilin , WANG Ling , Jiang Jieling , GAO Wenhui , Wan Ming , Blaise Didier
Published: December 2023

While post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) is commonly used as graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) prophylaxis in haploidentical stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT), the dose remains a matter of debate due to side effect concerns. Standard dose PTCy associated with tacrolimus and post-engraftment anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) was used as the reference GvHD prophylaxis in our center and had demonstrated encouraging results. Though PTCy 80 mg/kg was shown to be feasible in patients in reduced intensity conditioning, whether it exerts equivalent GvHD prophylactic efficacy in myeloablative conditioning (MAC) setting has not been confirmed. Here, we retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and safety of PTCy 80mg/kg combined with tacrolimus and post-engraftment ATG as GvHD prophylaxis in patients aged more than 55 years or with cardiac antecedents or HCT-CI score > 2 undergoing haplo-HSCT with MAC. The cumulative incidence of grade III-IV aGvHD at day 100 and moderate-to-severe cGvHD at 1 year was 4.8%±3.4% and 19.9%±7.0%, respectively. When compared with patients receiving the reference regimen, patients from the PTCy 80mg/kg group had similar incidence of GvHDs and survival as their younger counterparts. Thus, PTCy 80 mg/kg seems to be feasible for patients treated with MAC conditioning regimens in haplo-HSCT, inviting further investigation notably in frail patients.
Shadow distributions: Deconstructing the geography of human impacts on species' natural distribution
Authors: Waldock Conor , Wegscheider Bernhard , Calegari Bárbara , Josi Dario , Brodersen Jakob , de Queiroz Luiz Jardim , Seehausen Ole
Published: December 2023

It remains unknown how species’ populations across their geographic range are constrained by multiple coincident natural and anthropogenic environmental gradients. Conservation actions are likely undermined without this knowledge because the relative importance of the multiple anthropogenic threats is not set within the context of the natural determinants of species’ distributions. We introduce the novel concept of a species “shadow distribution” to address this knowledge gap, using explainable artificial intelligence to deconstruct the environmental building blocks of species distributions. We assessed shadow distributions for multiple threatened freshwater fishes in Switzerland which indicated how and where species respond negatively to threats ̶ with negative threat impacts covering 87% of locations inside species’ ecological niches. Our findings indicate very widely used threat and biodiversity mapping exercises to be inadequate for the conservation of species geographic distributions. Overall, we show how priority actions for nature’s recovery can be identified and contextualised within the multiple natural constraints on biodiversity to better meet national and international biodiversity targets.
Life Cycle Capacity Evaluation for Battery Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Sun Yushu , Yue Xinyi , Zhuang Guofeng , Pan Yifan , Pei Wei , Tang Xisheng
Published: December 2023

Based on the SOH definition of relative capacity, a whole life cycle capacity analysis method for battery energy storage systems is proposed in this paper. Due to the ease of data acquisition and the ability to characterize the capacity characteristics of batteries, voltage is chosen as the research object. Firstly, the first-order low-pass filtering algorithm, wavelet packet decomposition algorithm, and empirical mode decomposition algorithm are used to decompose the voltage data of complete battery charging and discharging cycles into high & low frequency bands; Furthermore, the Pearson correlation coefficient is applied to analyze the linear relationship between high/low frequency band voltage and capacity, and to extract evaluation indicators related to capacity; Finally, the SOH evaluation accuracy of the proposed strategy through different application scenarios is verified to improve its generalization ability.
Nutritional scores predict the prognosis of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Tan Junyi , Tianju Li , Yinhuan Pi , Xiaofeng Shi , Mingque Xiang
Published: December 2023

Background: Although malnutrition is associated with poor prognosis in Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) patients, there is currently no nutrition-based prediction model for PTB. Herein, we explored the applicability of common nutrition scores on the prognosis of PTB patients, aiming to construct a nutrition-based prediction model related to their prognosis.
Methods: We retrospectively collected clinical baseline data from 167 patients with secondary PTB who had not previously received anti-TB treatment. Subsequently, we determined the CONUT score, PNI index, and NPS score and evaluated the treatment efficacy using changes in lung lesions revealed by the chest CT scan. The Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUROC) curve was used to quantify the predictive values of CONUT, PNI, and NPS scores for anti-TB efficacy in new-onset PTB patients, and the critical CONUT, PNI, and NPS values were determined using the Youden Index. We also performed univariate and multivariate analyses of prognostic factors in PTB patients to determine the nutrition scores and other clinical factors associated with the prognosis of patients with the new-onset PTB.
Results: The Youden Index revealed that the critical value of the CONUT score in PTB patients was 4.5, at which the sensitivity (72.2%) and specificity (96.6%) were highest. On the other hand, the critical cut-off values of the PNI index and the NPS score were 39.825 and 3.5, respectively. Univariate analysis of the predictors of poor prognosis in PTB patients showed that patients with diabetes, COPD, pneumonia, and hypoproteinemia (which were risk factors) had a poor prognosis (p<0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that the CONUT score, PNI, NPS, and NRS-2002 were independent predictors of unfavourable PTB outcomes, with adjusted ORs of 0.016 (95%CI: 0.936-0.993, p<0.0001), 23.667 (95%CI: 9.317-60.115, p<0.0001), 0.119 (95%CI: 0.054-0.262, p<0.0001), and 0.124 (95%CI: 0.055-0.279, p<0.0001), respectively. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) of the CONUT score in predicting poor prognosis of PTB patients was 0.885 (95% CI：0.830-0.940，p<0.0001), which is comparable to that of the PNI index (0.862, 95% CI: 0.805-0.920, p<0.0001), but higher than that of NPS (0.774, 95% CI: 0.702-0.846, p<0.0001), BMI (0.627, 95% CI: 0.541-0.717, p<0.0001), and NRS-2002 (0.763, 95% CI: 0.688-0.838, p<0.0001). We discovered that older patients (p<0.0001), male participants (p< 0.05), and patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) (p<0.0001) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) (p<0.05) were more likely to have a high CONUT score.
Conclusion: The poor prognosis of PTB patients was related to a high CONUT score, low PNI index, and high NPS score, of which the specificity and sensitivity of the CONUT score were higher than those of the PNI index and the NPS score.
Utility of accessible SARS-CoV-2 specific immunoassays in vaccinated adults with a history of advanced HIV Infection
Authors: Ferrari Ludovica , Ruggiero Alessandra , Stefani Chiara , Benedetti Livia , Piermatteo Lorenzo , Andreassi Eleonora , Caldara Federica , Zace Drieda , Pagliari Matteo , Silberstein Francesca Ceccherini , Jones Christopher , Iannetta Marco , Geretti Anna Maria
Published: December 2023

Background. Accessible SARS-CoV-2-specific immunoassays may inform clinical management in people with HIV, particularly in case of persisting immunodysfunction. We prospectively studied their application in vaccine recipients with HIV, purposely including participants with a history of advanced HIV infection.
Methods. Participants received one (n=250), two (n=249) or three (n=42) doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine. Adverse events were documented through questionnaires. Sample collection occurred pre-vaccination and a median of 4 weeks post-second dose and 14 weeks post-third dose. Anti-spike and anti-nucleocapsid antibodies were measured with the Roche Elecsys chemiluminescence immunoassays. Neutralising activity was evaluated using the GenScript cPAss surrogate virus neutralisation test, following validation against a Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test. T-cell reactivity was assessed with the Roche SARS-CoV-2 IFNγ release assay.
Results. Primary vaccination (2 doses) was well tolerated and elicited measurable anti-spike antibodies in 202/206 (98.0%) participants. Anti-spike titres varied widely, influenced by previous SARS-CoV-2 exposure, ethnicity, intravenous drug use, CD4 counts and HIV viremia as independent predictors. A third vaccine dose significantly boosted anti-spike and neutralising responses, reducing variability. Anti-spike titres >15 U/mL correlated with neutralising activity in 136/144 paired samples (94.4%). Three participants with detectable anti-S antibodies did not develop neutralising responses post-third dose, yet displayed SARS-CoV-2 specific IFNγ responses.
Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is well-tolerated and immunogenic in adults with HIV, with responses improving post-third dose. Anti-spike antibodies serve as a reliable indicator of neutralising activity. Discordances between anti-spike and neutralising responses may be accompanied by detectable IFN-γ responses, underlining the complexity of the immune response in this population.
Community-based participatory research to guide adoption of culturally responsive trauma-informed HIV care throughout Nashville, Tennessee
Authors: Brown Lauren , Perkins Jessica , Acuña Jessica , Thacker Julie , Bolds Clare , Hawkins Mary , Stewart Jamie , Barroso Julie , Sommer Sadie , Eerden Joshua Van der , Heckman Bryan , Osman Amna , Smith Tarik , Alexander LaToya , Harvick Allie , Link Tiye , Crawley Anita , Nabaweesi Rosemary , Aboubaker Maria , Shaw-KaiKai Joanna , Foster Norman , Glaze-Johnson Beverly , Hoke Jessica , Audet Carolyn , Sales Jessica , Pettit April
Published: December 2023

Background: Psychological trauma is a highly prevalent driver of poor health among people with HIV (PWH) in the Southern United States (U.S.). Trauma-informed care (TIC) has potential to advance national Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) goals, but formative research is needed to tailor TIC implementation to complex and interdependent HIV networks. Methods: We applied a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to iteratively engage personnel from high volume HIV care institutions in Nashville, Tennessee. Current practices and potential implementation determinants were identified through participatory process mapping (PM) and key informant interviews. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was applied to deductively code interview data. Personnel attending a dissemination summit developed a network-wide implementation plan.
Results: Data were collected with personnel from five institutions (e.g., community-based organizations, primary care clinics, public health department), for PM (n=48), interviews (n=35), and the summit (n=17). Results suggest there are limited trauma screenings, assessments, and services across the network. Relevant Characteristics of Individuals included a trauma-sensitive workforce committed to continuous learning and TIC adoption. Relevant Inner Setting Factors were networks and communications, with strong tension for change, high compatibility with TIC, and need for advancing cultural responsiveness. Relevant Outer Setting Factors included patient needs and resources and cosmopolitanism, with need for better leveraged mental health services. Relevant Process domains were champions and leadership, with need to diversify championship among leaders. Relevant Intervention Characteristics included relative advantage and complexity, with need for personnel wellness initiatives and increased engagement with the community as service designers. Four recommendations included development of shared communication systems, personnel wellness campaigns, routine evaluations to inform practices, and culturally responsive care initiatives.
Conclusion: Modifiable TIC determinants were identified, and a community-created implementation plan was developed to guide adoption. Future research will focus on city-wide implementation and strengthening pre-implementation research in other settings.
Alcohol consumption may be a risk factor for cerebrovascular stenosis
Authors: Liu Yiti , Gou Maoyuan , Gu Shuo , Guo Xiaoyan
Published: December 2023

Background: Atherosclerosis are well established risk factors for ischemic stroke, however the association between alcohol consumption and atherosclerosis is controversial. This study aims to explore the potential correlation between alcohol consumption and cerebral stenosis in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Methods: Nine hundreds and forty-one patients with first acute ischemic stroke attack in 48 hours were recruited retrospectively. Alcohol consumption was classified into five consumption categories (non-drinkers, occasional drinkers, <140g per week, 140-279g per week, ≥280g per week). Computed tomography angiography (CTA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were utilized to assess the carotid and cerebral artery in all patients. Five-step scale for degree of stenosis was applied: normal (0, 0 points), mild (<50%, 1 point), moderate (50% to 69%, 2 points), severe (70% to 99%, 3 points), and occlusion (100%, 4 points).
Results: The carotid and cerebral artery stenosis scores were positively correlated with moderate alcohol consumption (B = 1.466, P = 0.03). Compared with nondrinkers, moderate alcohol consumption had significant increasing risk of moderate carotid and cerebral artery stenosis (OR = 4.35, 95% CI:1.74-10.83, P = 0.008) and severe stenosis (OR = 3.26, 95% CI:1.35-7.89, P = 0.008) and occlusion (OR = 3.31, 95% CI:1.55-7.08, P = 0.002). Compared with nondrinkers, heavy alcohol consumption patients had significant higher risk of carotid and cerebral artery occlusion (OR = 2.96, 95% CI:1.43-6.12, P = 0.003).
Conclusions: Higher alcohol consumption may associate with higher risk and more severity of carotid andcerebrovascular stenosis.
Experimental study on mechanical properties of subgrade soil in cold region under different conditions
Authors: Wang Zecheng , Li Dongwei , Jia Zhiwen , Wang Zhenhua , Sun Qiao
Published: December 2023

In order to study the change of mechanical properties of subgrade under the condition of thawing after the highway in cold region is subjected to freeze-thaw action all the year round. In this paper, the effects of freeze-thaw cycles, freezing temperature, water content and confining pressure on the mechanical properties of subgrade soil in cold regions after thawing were studied by carrying out indoor mechanical tests, and the mechanical properties of subgrade soil in cold regions after thawing under different conditions were measured. The test results show that : 1 ) after 7 freeze-thaw cycles, the failure stress of subgrade soil decreases from 321.7 kPa to 289.9 kPa, with a decrease of 9.9%, and the elastic modulus decreases by 19.9%. 2 ) When the freezing temperature is reduced from − 5°C to − 15°C, the failure stress of subgrade soil is reduced from 303.9 kPa to 290.1 kPa, which is reduced by 13.8 kPa. The reduction range is about 4.5%, and the elastic modulus is about 1.6%;3 ) When the water content increased from 6–12%, the failure stress decreased from 405.43 kPa to 288.4 kPa, with a decrease of 29.1%, and the elastic modulus decreased approximately linearly, with a decrease of 50.4%. 4 ) When the confining pressure increases from 50 kPa to 150 kPa, the failure stress increases from 194.7 kPa to 367.7 kPa, and the failure stress increases by 88.8%. The elastic modulus increases by 154.1% with the increase of confining pressure. The research results can provide reference for highway and engineering construction in the western silty sand distribution area.
Genome-wide expression analysis of LACS gene family implies GHLACS25 functional responding to salt stress in cotton
Authors: Xu Yuchen , Fu Shouyang , Huang Yiwen , Zhou Dayun , Wu Yuzhen , Peng Jun , Kuang Meng
Published: December 2023

Background: Long-chain acyl-coenzyme A synthetase (LACS) is a type of acylating enzyme with AMP-binding, playing an important role in the growth, development, and stress response processes of plants.
Results: The research team identified different numbers of LACSgenes in four cotton species (Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium barbadense, Gossypium raimondii and Gossypium arboreum), indicating a certain diversity of LACS genes among different cotton species. By analyzing the structure and evolutionary characteristics of LACS genes, the GHLACS genes were divided into six subgroups, and a chromosome distribution map of the family members was drawn, providing a basis for further research classification and positioning. Promoter cis-acting element analysis showed that most GHLACSgenes contain plant hormones (GA, MeJA) or non-biological stress-related cis-elements, suggesting that GHLACS genes may be involved in the regulation of plant growth, development, and stress response processes. The expression patterns of GHLACS genes under salt stress treatment were analyzed, and the results showed that GHLACS genes may significantly participate in salt stress response through different mechanisms. The research team selected 12 GHLACS genes responsive to salt stress for tissue expression analysis and found that these genes are expressed in different tissues.
Conclusions: GHLACS25 was chosen for in-depth study, and it was confirmed that the GHLACS25 gene plays an important role in salt stress response through virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) and induced expression in yeast cells. Overall, this study provides important clues and evidence for understanding the function of LACSgenes in cotton and their role in growth, development, and stress response processes. It is hoped that future research will further explore the mechanism of action of LACS genes in cotton and explore their potential application value in improving stress resistance traits.
Identification of FDA compounds to inhibit RAGEs through docking, MD-simulation, MMPBSA and DFT analysis
Authors: Singh Akash Pratap , Ahmad Shaban , Raza Khalid , Gautam Hemant K.
Published: December 2023

Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGEs) is a multifunctional cell surface protein present in vascular cells, monocytes/macrophages, B- and T-lymphocytes, retina Muller cells, kidney podocytes, mesangial cells, glial cells, neurons, and some cancer cells. The variety of cell types expresses RAGE, and AGEs ligand recognized by these receptor and produce signaling cascade mechanisms. The Accumulation of AGEs and recognisase by RAGEs play important roles in diabetes, chronic inflammatory disorders, neurological illnesses, and cancer, as well as T-lymphocyte proliferation. Therefore, block the RAGEs activity through FDA inhibitors are unmet need. In this studies, we targeted RAGE receptor and screening of FDA libraries through docking analysis. Docking studies identifed the best four FDA compounds Zytiga (ZINC000003797541), Paliperidone (ZINC000004214700), Targretin (ZINC000001539579), Irinotecan (ZINC000001612996) and Carboxymethyllysine (Control) were the medications examined; their respective ΔG values were -11.2, -11.2, -11.2, -11.1 and -5.0 kcal/mol respectively. Furthermore, 100 ns run was performed and found RMSD value of Paliperidone(1.2±0.3 nm) and Irinotecan (1.3± 0.2 nm) was quite stable. Next, docking and simulation experiment supported by MMPBSA analysis and found Paliperidone molecule was high negative energy (-13.49 kcal/mol). In silico investigation suggested that Paliperidone were involved in stable interactions which were maintained throughout the MD run with the RAGEs, virtually. The results advocated that these could potentially inhibit RAGEs activity and be used in the clinical management of various diseases.
Rosmarinic acid alleviates radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis by downregulating tRNA N7-Methylguanosine modification-regulated fibroblast to myofibroblast transition through the exosomes pathway
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Mi Jinglin , Ouyang Zhechen , Qin Xinling , Wang Yiru , Li Zhixun , He Siyi , Hu Kai , Wang Rensheng , Huang Weimei
Published: December 2023

Background Radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis (RIPF) is a common complication after radiotherapy in thoracic cancer patients, and there is a lack of effective treatment methods. The aim of this study was to explore the protective effect of rosmarinic acid (RA) on RIPF in mice as well as the underlying mechanism. Results We found that RA exerted an antifibrotic effect on lung tissues of RIPF mouse models and inhibited the progression of FMT through exosomes derived from lung epithelial cells. Mechanistically, RA reduced the transcription and translation efficiency of SPHK1 in lung fibroblasts by decreasing the tRNA N7-methylguanosine modification and downregulating the expression of tRNAs in lung epithelial cell-derived exosomes after irradiation, as well as inhibiting the interaction of SPHK1 with the NAT10 protein in fibroblasts. Furthermore, exosomes derived from irradiated lung epithelial cells after RA intervention decreased the acetylation and cytoplasmic translocation of PFKFB3, suppressing the FMT process triggered by glycolysis, and ultimately decelerating the progression of RIPF. Conclusions These findings suggest RA as a potential therapeutic agent for RIPF.
A Feasibility Study of Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing of Thalassemia by Haplotype Analysis Based on Next Generation Sequencing and Long-Read Sequencing
Authors: Wang Lei , Huang Xinyi , Wu Xiaoli , Wu Bei , Xu Xiangmin , Yang Jingmin , Wu Yiming , Xie Dan , Yang Mingyue , Guo Min , Lu Daru , An Bangquan , Huang Shengwen
Published: December 2023

To investigate the feasibility of constructing parental haplotypes based on short-read next-generation (NGS) and long-read third-generation sequencing (TGS) for non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) of thalassemia.Families at risk of having children with moderate to severe thalassemia were recruited for this study. Genomic DNA from both couples and sibling or grandparents of the fetus was first applied to construct haplotypes in couples using targeted NGS. For families where parental haplotypes could not be built using NGS, directly using TGS. NGS was performed on cell-free DNA in maternal peripheral blood to obtain information on fetal allele depth distribution, fetal fraction, etc. Haplotypes and thalassemia genotypes of fetuses were then deduced using the Viterbi decoding algorithm based on a hidden Markov model. Finally, the NIPT results were verified by invasive prenatal diagnosis (IPD). As a result, pedigree-based NGS successfully deduced the thalassemia genotype of the fetus in 93.3%(28/30). However, 2 families had failed because both sibling or grandparents of the fetus and couples were heterozygous for point mutations in the same thalassemia gene. In these 2 families, TGS directly inferred parental haplotypes and deduced fetuses genotypes. This combined strategy resulted in the prediction of fetal genotypes in all 30 families, and its coincidence rate with IPD results reached 100%. In brief, Pedigree-based NGS is enough to construct haplotype and decuce genotypes in most fetuses. TGS is helpful in certain families in which NGS failed. Therefore, comprehensive application of haplotype analysis based on NGS and TGS data is an effective strategy for NIPT in thalassemia.
A highly frequency-selective 3D printed dielectric structure for the terahertz range
Authors: Tobias Kubiczek , Kevin Kolpatzeck , Thorsten Schultze , C. Balzer Jan
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we present a terahertz transmission frequency-selective quasi surface (FSQS) showing strong absorption lines and a periodic band-pass characteristic. The structure is created by the lateral combination of Fabry-Pérot resonators with different thicknesses. The transfer function of the FSQS can be used as a broadband reference for testing the signal integrity of the transmission path for broadband terahertz systems. This is realized by the transfer function which shows a combination of band-pass characteristics and sharp resonances with a theoretical attenuation of more than 80 dB and with quality factors of more than 40,000 for a combination of 36 resonators. One FSQS consisting of a combination of four resonators is 3D printed by fused deposition modeling of a low-loss cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) filament. Finally, we perform a characterization of the 3D printed FSQS with a frequency-domain and a time-domain terahertz spectroscopy system showing an attenuation of more than 42 dB and a quality factor above 100.
A qualitative method for gel strength assessment of phycocolloid-based gels
Authors: Shauli Lilach , Salomon Eitan
Published: December 2023

Seaweeds are the natural, sustainable, source for phycocolloids. Phycocolloids such as agar and agarose, carrageenan and alginate have many usages in a variety of industries including health, science, food, and cosmetics. The commercial application of each phycocolloid, and its commercial value, depend on its chemical/physical properties. One of the unique characteristics of certain phycocolloids is their ability to form gels. Gel properties such as gel strength, gel setting and melting temperatures vary between different seaweed species and among a single species, can vary depending on their growth conditions. Thus, measuring gels properties including gel strength is important for seaweed growers and scientist. State of the art gel strength measurements mainly includes the use of texture analyzers. However, such instruments are not always available for growers and scientists, and alternative methods for obtaining gels strength are desired. In this work we describe a home-made apparatus for assessing gel strength, or gel break point, of phycocolloid gels. The system measures the weight of water in a column required for breakage and penetration of a flat tip, pressed against gels at a concentration range of 0.5–1.5%. We found that the system gave repeatable results, both across different sampling trials, as well as across different users. The variation in the measurement was similar to that reported for other gel strength measuring devices. We propose the use of our system as a simple, flexible, and affordable method for quickly assessing gel quality of phycocolloid samples.
Determination of the lateral pressure of the soil on a retaining wall in quasi-static conditions using limit analysis theory
Authors: Chen Yan-Jia , Zheng Gui-Xin
Published: December 2023

The provided text discusses the calculation of lateral soil pressure in active and passive states, one of the classical stability problems in soil mechanics. Given the importance of earthquake effects on the behavior of retaining walls, calculating lateral pressure in this scenario is of particular significance. The limit analysis method is an efficient approach for calculating soil lateral pressure, divided into lower and upper bound analyses.
A Novel 1200V SJ-RFC-MPS with Fast Recovery and Snap-off-free
Authors: Rao Qiansheng , Li Zehong , Li Luping , Yang Yuanzhen , Chen Peng , Ren Min
Published: December 2023

In this work, a novel Super-junction Relaxed Field of Cathode Merged PiN Schot-tky (SJ-RFC-MPS) realizing low reverse recovery time, snap-off-free and superior VF-Qrr trade-off is proposed. With the introduction of RFC on cathode of SJ-MPS, the N-sub injection window during on-state is reduced, and holes injected into N-buffer during the reverse recovery process suppress the cathode electric field, thus snap-off in conventional SJ-MPS is eliminated. In addition, under the effect of reduced drift region thickness from snap-off-free Semi-SJ-MPS, trr and Qrr are reduced by 40.7% and 40.6% though TCAD simulation, respectively. It proves that the RFC just provides a solution of suppressing snap-off in SJ-MPS, and which is necessary for SJ-MPS to exert its intrinsic advantage of fast recovery.
Suggestions for Food Self-management by Athletes - Investigation of the Effectiveness of Food Frequency Questionnaire by Soccer Players -
Authors: Takahashi Ryunoshuke , Fujii Takako
Published: December 2023

A proper diet is essential for athletes. However, in a few cases, athletes have the opportunity to receive dietary management and advice from a dietitian concerning an appropriate diet. If athletes could manage their own diets, they would be able to check their diets regularly, which would alleviate dietary concerns and improve their performance. The study was conducted on 28 students who were members of a university soccer team. The subjects completed a self-administered Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) using the FFQ NEXT software program. The survey forms were distributed to the participants by their coaches, and the participants completed the forms on their own. For comparison purposes, the nutritional value of each meal was calculated by a dietitian and compared using a recording method. The results showed that protein, fat, phosphorus, zinc, and fiber levels were significantly lower in the FFQ than in the recording method. However, phosphorus, zinc, and fiber levels were within the target ranges. The FFQ NEXT can be used as a means for athletes to assess their diet at their own pace. It is also suggested that it could be used to screen athletes in need of dietary guidance.
Traffic volume prediction on highway network with mix-of-expert Transformer
Authors: Shen Zhou (Eric)
Published: December 2023

Accurate traffic volume prediction is essential for effective traffic management and urban planning. This paper introduces a novel approach, the Mix-of-Expert Transformer model, for traffic volume prediction on highway networks. Integrating the Mix-of-Expert concept within the Transformer architecture, our model leverages expert specialization and adaptive attention mechanisms to capture complex spatiotemporal dependencies in traffic data. Through comprehensive experiments, including comparisons with traditional time-series models, machine learning approaches, and state-of-the-art Transformer-based methods, we demonstrate the superior performance and computational efficiency of the proposed model. The Mix-of-Expert Transformer consistently outperforms baseline models, showcasing its potential as a valuable tool for optimizing traffic flow and urban transportation systems. The model's versatility and efficiency make it a promising solution for real-world applications in traffic prediction, paving the way for further advancements in intelligent transportation systems.
Impact of the active job openings-to-applicants ratio on the number of ambulance dispatches: a longitudinal ecological study
Authors: Kamikawa Yohei
Published: December 2023

Background
An increase in the number of ambulance dispatches has been a common issue in developed countries. Although many previous studies have investigated the factors that contribute to this increase, none have examined the macroeconomic indicators. This study examined the contribution of the active job openings-to-applicants ratio, a macroeconomic indicator, to the number of ambulance dispatches.
Methods
This study was a longitudinal ecological study. All ambulance dispatches in Japan between January 2003 and December 2021 were included. The contribution of the active job openings-to-applicants ratio in a month, adjusted by the number of older people, mean temperature, and total population, to the number of ambulance dispatches in that specific month was examined and the new model was compared to the conventional model considering only the older population, mean temperature, and total population.
Results
There were 108,724,969 ambulance dispatches during this period. The active job openings-to-applicants ratio was significantly associated with the number of ambulance dispatches (incidence rate ratio per month, 1.00081; 95% confidence interval, 1.00052–1.00112). Additionally, the primary model effectively demonstrated better fitness to the actual trend than the conventional model (the quasi-likelihood under the independence model criteria were − 2,626,817,722 and − 2,626,775,188, respectively).
Conclusions
The number of ambulance dispatches was correlated with the active job openings-to-applicants ratio. Macroeconomic perspectives may be needed to address the issue of increasing ambulance dispatches.
Differential responses to aging amongst the transcriptome and proteome of mesenchymal progenitor populations
Authors: Duque Gustavo , Feehan Jack , Tripodi Nicholas , Kondrikov Dmitry , Wijeratne Tissa , Gimble Jeffrey , Hill William , Apostolopoulos Vasso
Published: December 2023

The biological aging of mesenchymal stem cells is proposed to contribute to the development of a range of musculoskeletal and systemic diseases associated with older adults, such as osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and frailty. Despite this, little is understood about the specific mechanisms which drive this stem cell exhaustion, with most studies evaluating indirect effects of other aging changes, such as DNA damage, senescence, and inflammaging. In this study, we assess the transcriptomic and proteomic changes in three different populations of mesenchymal progenitor cells from older (50–70 years) and younger (20–40 years) individuals to uncover potential mechanisms driving stem cell exhaustion in mesenchymal tissues. To do this, we harvested primary bone marrow mesenchymal stem and progenitor cells (MPCs), circulating osteoprogenitors (COP), and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) from younger and older donors, with an equal number of samples from males and females. These samples underwent RNA sequencing and label-free proteomic analysis, comparing the younger samples to the older ones. There was a distinct transcriptomic phenotype associated with the pooled older stem cells, indicative of suppressed proliferation and differentiation; however, there was no consistent change in the proteome of the cells. Older MPCs had a distinct phenotype in both the transcriptome and proteome, again consistent with altered differentiation and proliferation, but also a pro-inflammatory immune shift in older adults. COP cells showed a strong transcriptomic shift to pro-inflammatory signaling but no consistent proteomic phenotype. Similarly, ADSCs displayed transcriptomic shift in physiologies associated with cell migration, adherence, and immune activation, but no consistent proteomic change with age. These results show that there are underlying transcriptomic changes with stem cell aging that likely contribute to a decline in tissue regeneration; however, contextual factors such as the microenvironment and general health status also have a strong role in this.
Development of financial performance of food retailers as an attribute behind the increase of food insecurity in selected Central and Eastern European Countries
Authors: Dubanych Oksana , Vavřina Jan , Polák Josef
Published: December 2023

Food insecurity is not a new phenomenon even in leading European economies, but this complex problem area is facing new global challenges. This article traces the research gap in addressing food insecurity by focusing on the role of food retail chains in the former “Eastern Bloc” in light of unprecedented food price inflation and the resulting scale of demand for the services of food banks. Through empirical analysis of secondary financial corporate data, a low level of their profitability in the period of 2011–2019 was revealed, which preceded the synchronicity of two unexpected global economic downturns. Specifically, Return on Sales for food retailers located in the Czech Republic and Hungary was generally below 2%, offset by higher Total Asset Turnover figures, consistent with the need to extend the volume of goods for sale. Development in profitability in selected newer EU member states is just as significantly similar to the situation in Ukraine. The mutual interaction of factors of economic size and the country of residence of business was analyzed regarding a possible influence on their financial performance. This study concluded that the presence of unresolved market distortions can both lead to increased food insecurity and, paradoxically, contribute to increased food waste.
AcknowledgmentThe authors are thankful to the Internal Grant Agency of Mendel University in Brno for financial support to carry out this research as the partial output of the project No. IGA-PEF-TP-23-015 “Zajišťování výživových potřeb obyvatelstva vzhledem k aktuálním výzvám v oblasti regenerativních přístupů při vykonávání hospodářských činností podniků agropotravinářského komplexu se zaměřením na roli tuzemských potravinových bank”.
Sencer / Sancar Adı Üzerine Bir Görüş
Authors: PİYADEOĞLU Cihan
Published: December 2023

Türkiye’de Selçuklu Tarihi çalışmaları, Osmanlıların son döneminde başlamış, 1950’li yıllardan itibaren artarak devam etmiştir. Bununla birlikte bu döneme dair bazı meseleler henüz çözümlenebilmiş değildir. Bu meselelerden biri Sencer/Sancar adının kullanım tercihidir. Büyük Selçukluların son sultanının adı tarihçilerin kullanım tercihlerine farklı biçimde yansımıştır. Nitekim bazı tarihçiler bu ismi Sencer olarak verirken bazıları da Sancar şeklini tercih etmiştir. Hatta her ikisini kullanan araştırmacılar da bulunmaktadır. Ancak inceleyebilmiş olduğumuz tüm Arapça ve Farsça kaynaklarda ismin imlası سنجر şeklindedir .Kaynaklar, ismin verilişi hakkında iki bilgiyi öne çıkarmaktadır. İlk bilgiye göre Sultan Melikşah, Sincâr yakınlarında doğan oğlunun adını bu şehrin adından etkilenerek koymuş, diğer görüşe göre ise Türkçe saplamak anlamına gelen “sançmak” fiilinden türetilen bir isimlendirmede bulunmuştur. Yapılan bir yoruma göre ise aslında Sancar olan isim, ünsüz yumuşamasına uğrayarak Sencer’e dönüşmüş ve sonraki süreçte Sencer şekli kullanılagelmiştir. Bu çalışmada isim hakkında değerlendirmelerde bulunulacak ve yeni bir görüş üzerinde durulacaktır.
XVI. Yüzyıl İstanbul’unda Tekke ve Saray Şeyh ve Bânî Arasındaki Yakınlığın Mahiyeti Üzerine Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: BÖLÜKBAŞI Ayşe
Published: December 2023

Bu çalışmada XVI. yüzyılda İstanbul’da inşa edilmiş olan beş adet Halveti tekkesi ele alınmıştır. Bu tekkeleri ayrıcalıklı kılan husus, bânîsinin sarayı/konutu bahçesinde yahut çok yakınında inşa edilmiş olmalarıdır. Yapılacak incelemeyle bânînin sarayıyla tekkenin yakın mekânlarda bulunmasının anlamlandırılması ve bânî ve şeyh ilişkisinin çok yönlü olarak irdelenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Bânîler tekkelerini saray bahçesinde ya da çok yakınında inşa ettirerek Halvetilerle var olan yakınlıklarını daha da takviye etmek ve Halveti tarikatı müntesibi olduklarını açıkça göstermek istemişlerdi. Sözü edilen bânîlerin türbe ve kabirlerinin de tekke içerisinde yer alması bu hususların diğer bir kanıtıdır. Bânîlerin tekke yapısını ve sakinlerini kendilerine bu kadar yakında konumlandırmaları, günlük yaşamları içerisinde dinî ve tasavvufî unsurlara daha fazla yer verme arzusunun bir yansıması olmalıdır.
‘Bağlam, Nasıl Terim Üretir?’: Osmanlı’daki Türkçe Matematik Terimlerinin Oluşumuna İşlevsel (Bağlamsal) Yaklaşım Temelli Bir Bakış
Authors: KALAFAT Şermin
Published: December 2023

Bu makalede Osmanlı’daki Türkçe matematik terimleri kültür dilbilimin bir nesnesi olarak düşünülüp terim oluşum süreçleri kavram bilimindeki (semasiology) işlevsel (bağlamsal) yaklaşım (functional (contextual) approach) açısından inceleniyor. İncelemede, kavram ve anlam oluşumları âlim/yazar-öğrenci/muhatap, kaynak dil-hedef dil ilişkilerinden kaynaklı iletişimsel bağlamların bir sonucu olarak tarihsel terim bilimi odağında dil, kültür ve çeviri bilimin ortak ilkesi “dil dünya görüşü” üzerinden değerlendiriliyor. Bunlara ek olarak, Türkçe telif ve tercüme bilim eserlerinin Anadolu’da yazılış sebebi olan muhatap ve hedeflerin doğrudan terim üretimine sebep oldukları savunuluyor. Bu bakımdan makale, kültürün ve iletişimi var eden bağlamların bir terimin oluşumundaki etkisinin biçim bilgisel yöntemlerden daha kuvvetli olduğunu vurgulamaya yönelik bağlamsal analize dayalı kuramsal bir yorum sunuyor.
Being a Young Speaker of the Gagauz Language in Post-Soviet Context
Authors: İNAN Kayhan , DAĞDEVİREN KIRMIZI Gülin
Published: December 2023

The concept of identity assumes great importance in the context of endangered languages. In this study, the identity perceptions of Gagauz adolescents were investigated using Bucholtz and Hall's (2005) sociocultural linguistic approach. To this end, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with three adolescent Gagauz speakers who had distinctive profiles in terms of Gagauz identity. Bucholtz and Hall's indexicality principle, specifically the use of WE- and THEY- references, was taken into consideration in the analysis of interviews held with young Gagauz speakers. In the semi-structured interviews, the participants responded to specific questions that probed self-identification, the relationship between the Gagauz language and ethnicity, the future of Gagauz people and Gagauz language, and perceived linguistic (in)security when speaking Gagauz and Russian languages, as well as language choice at school. The findings show that the participants have different profiles and use various indexical references and linguistic strategies regarding group membership. The influence of Russia and the Russian language on Gagauz identity is salient in social life, bureaucracy, and politics. As a result, the strong identification with ethnic identity and perception of Gagauz identity does not help maintain the Gagauz language in Gagauzia.
Enhanced Detection of Benzo[a]pyrene in Olive Oil through Low Temperature Liquid-Liquid Extraction Coupled with Constant Energy Synchronous Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Soares Willian , Orlando Ricardo , Menezes Helvécio
Published: December 2023

Refined processed olive oil can indeed become significantly contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). To assess exposure to these contaminants, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is utilized as a marker due to its known carcinogenicity in humans. The European Commission has established a maximum limit of 2 μg kg-1 for B[a]P in edible oils. However, the analysis of trace amounts of B[a]P in a complex matrix like olive oil poses a persistent challenge. In this study, we have developed a low-temperature liquid-liquid extraction method in combination with constant energy synchronous fluorescence analysis for the determination of B[a]P in olive oil samples. The analyte was extracted from the olive oil using a mixture of acetonitrile and acetone. The performance of fluorescence measurements was evaluated by carefully considering the effects of solvent, temperature, acetone quenching, and slit width for monochromators. The proposed method demonstrates a linear range from 0.8 to 3.2 μg kg-1, with limits of detection and quantification of 0.04 and 0.80 μg kg-1, respectively. Precision and trueness assessments revealed relative standard deviations of less than 10% and recovery rates ranging from 103 to 112%. This method presents an efficient and rapid alternative to sample preparation procedure that minimizes organic solvent consumption.