bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recognition and completeness metrics from iNaturalist and GBIF can inform future citizen science and research projects: a case study on arthropods in Namibia
Authors: Alfeus Martha , Irish John , Birkhofer Klaus
Published: June 2024

Arthropods are the most diverse animal phylum and play crucial roles in ecosystem functioning through their contributions to ecosystem processes. Accurate knowledge about their distribution and diversity is essential for effective ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation. Public biodiversity databases and citizen science records could contribute to our understanding of arthropod diversity. To test this assumption, we extracted arthropod observations in Namibia from iNaturalist (iNat) and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and compared these data to the records in the Namibian Biodiversity Database (NBD). We assessed the proportion of observations identified to species level in each arthropod order in iNat and GBIF (“recognition” metric) and compared the number of species from the two biodiversity networks (iNat and GBIF) to the known species richness in each arthropod order in NBD (“completeness” metric). Only 54.4% of iNat and 63.1% of GBIF arthropod observations in Namibia are recorded at species level. Scorpions (Scorpiones) and dragonflies (Odonata) are the most recognised orders in both GBIF and iNat, with high completeness rates (> 60%). However, overall recognition and completeness for all arthropod orders were generally below 50% in both databases. The high recognition and completeness for certain orders could be attributed to species traits that make them recognizable (e.g. large body size, colouration), a low species richness and the taxonomic familiarity of the public. While global biodiversity networks provide valuable data, science-based databases like NBD remain essential for comprehensive biodiversity understanding. Global biodiversity networks provide insights into public perception and the suitability of taxonomic groups for citizen-involved biodiversity projects.
Alteration of nutrient uptake and secondary metabolism connection by foliar application of citrus flavonoids to broccoli plants
Authors: Albaladejo-Marico Lorena , Yepes-Molina Lucia , Carvajal Micaela
Published: June 2024

The nutritional value of broccoli is largely attributed to its abundant secondary metabolites such as phenolic compounds and glucosinolates (GSLs). However, the dynamic relationship between these compounds, including potential synergistic or antagonistic interactions that influence plant physiology and metabolism, remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the intricate interplay between phenolic compounds and GSLs in broccoli plants and their consequent effects on primary metabolism and regulatory mechanisms governing water and nutrient uptake. To investigate this, we externally supplied citric phenolic compounds to broccoli plants, and then measured the levels of GSLs and phenolic compounds, along with assessing physiological parameters such as biomass, gas exchange, and nutrient content. Additionally, the expression of genes related to GSLs and phenolics biosynthesis, as well as genes involved in water transport were measured. Our results revealed a complex interrelation between phenolic compounds and GSLs, with phenolic compounds significantly modulating the response of GSLs and influencing the expression of aquaporin genes. This modulation had notable effects on nutrient regulation mechanisms in broccoli plants. Overall, our findings shed light on the regulatory mechanisms underlying the interaction between phenolic compounds, GSLs and growth, providing insights into their roles in plant physiology and metabolism.
Comparison of species diversity, richness, and abundance of dung beetles between wildlife and wildlife-livestock ecosystems of Namibia.
Authors: Ndozi Mukendwa Hosticks , Gohole Linnet
Published: June 2024

Assessing the species diversity, richness, and abundance of dung beetles in wildlife and wildlife-livestock ecosystems is crucial in understanding the effects of anthropogenic processes on the community structures of dung beetles to improve conservation strategies in Namibia. We tested the hypothesis that the species diversity, richness, and abundance of dung beetles in wildlife ecosystems will be better than in wildlife-livestock ecosystems. Sampling of dung beetles was carried out using baited pitfall traps for a period of 12 months. Linear transects of 1.1 km in length were installed with 12 pitfall traps separated by a distance of 100 m from each other. An independent samples test (P = 0.05) was used to compare the species diversity of dung beetles in two ecosystems. A total of 56,701 individuals were collected from both wildlife and wildlife-livestock ecosystems belonging to 44 species, 25 genera, and 8 tribes. The species diversity of the two ecosystems was similar (H’; t = 1.146, df = 22, P > 0.05). The wildlife ecosystem was more species-rich (n = 43) when compared to the wildlife-livestock ecosystem (n = 35). The species abundance and richness were significantly difference between the two ecosystems (p = < 0.05). A higher Shannon-Wiener Index (H’ = 2.63) was reported in wildlife ecosystems than in wildlife-livestock ecosystems. Different land-use systems have proven to have an impact on species assemblage of dung beetles. We concluded that wildlife ecosystems in Namibia can provide a rich ecological and functional dung beetle community.
Reimplementing Mizar in Rust
Authors: Carneiro Mario
Published: June 2024

This paper describes a new open-source proof processing tool, \texttt{mizar-rs}, a wholesale reimplementation of the Mizar proof system, written in Rust. In particular, the main Mizar processing tool \texttt{verifier} is implemented, which can be used to verify the Mizar Mathematical Library (MML). This is to our knowledge the first and only external implementation of the system. We have used this to verify the entire MML in 11.8 minutes on 8 cores, a 4.8$\times$ speedup over the original Pascal implementation. Since Mizar is not designed to have a small trusted core, checking Mizar proofs entails following Mizar closely, so our ability to detect bugs is limited. Nevertheless, we were able to find multiple memory errors, four soundness bugs in the original (which were not being exploited in MML), in addition to one non-critical bug which was being exploited in 46 different MML articles. We hope to use this checker as a base for proof export tooling, as well as revitalizing development of the language.
Prediction of Vancomycin Plasma Concentration in Elderly Patients based on Multi-Algorithm Mining Combined with Population Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Ma Pan , Ma Huan , Liu Ruixiang , Wen Haini , Li Haisheng , Huang Yifan , Li Ying , Xiong Lirong , Xie Linli , Wang Qian
Published: June 2024

Background
The pharmacokinetics of vancomycin exhibit significant interindividual variability, particularly among elderly patients. This study aims to develop a predictive model that integrates machine learning with population pharmacokinetics (popPK) to facilitate personalized medication management for this demographic.
Methods
A retrospective analysis incorporating 33 variables, including popPK parameters such as clearance and volume of distribution. A combination of multiple algorithms and Shapley Additive Explanations was utilized for feature selection to identify the most influential factors affecting drug concentrations.
Results
Models incorporating popPK parameters consistently outperformed those without. Our final ensemble model, composed of support vector regression, light gradient boosting machine, and categorical boosting in a 6:3:1 ratio, included 16 optimized variables. This model demonstrated superior predictive accuracy compared to models utilizing all variables, with validation metrics including an R² of 0.635, mean square error of 4.067, mean absolute error of 29.877, absolute accuracy within ± 5 mg/L of 64.86%, and relative accuracy within ± 30% of 75.68%.
Conclusions
This study presents a rapid and cost-effective predictive model for estimating vancomycin plasma concentrations in elderly patients. The model offers a valuable tool for clinicians to accurately determine effective plasma concentration ranges and tailor individualized dosing regimens, thereby enhancing therapeutic outcomes and safety.
Comparison of Neoadjuvant Chemoimmunotherapy and Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Resectable Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study with 3-Year Survival Analysis
Authors: Wang Peiyuan , Chen Yujie , Lei Mengxia , He Hao , Zhang Derong , Lin Junpeng , Lin Hui , Wei Wenwei , Chen Peng , Zhuang Fengnian , Chen Weijie , Zhou Hang , Gao Pengqiang , Wang Feng , Liu Shuoyan
Published: June 2024

Background
Neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (nCIT) for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC) has shown short-term benefits, but long-term survival outcomes are unclear. This study compares nCIT and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (nCT) in resectable ESCC.
Patients and Methods:
A retrospective analysis was conducted on ESCC patients who underwent nCT or nCIT followed by esophagectomy. Propensity score matching (PSM) with a caliper of 0.02 was employed to minimize bias. The primary endpoints included disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).
Results
A total of 131 comparable pairs of ESCC patients receiving nCT and nCIT were selected for the final analysis. The nCIT had higher rates of pathological complete response (pCR) and major pathological response (mPR) compared to nCT. Additionally, nCIT led to significant tumor down-staging, higher rates of R0 resection, and increased lymph node clearance during surgery. Patients who received nCIT exhibited improved disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) at the 3-year follow-up. The incidence of distant and mixed relapses was lower in the nCIT group compared to the nCT group. However, the risk of locoregional relapse was comparable between the two groups. Subgroup analyses showed that the benefits of nCIT were generally observed across most patient subgroups. Interestingly, in patients without pCR or mPR, nCIT still demonstrated better survival benefits than nCT.
Conclusion
nCIT demonstrated superior pathological response rates and improved 3-year DFS and OS compared to nCT alone in locally advanced ESCC, but long-term survival validation is needed.
Development and Optimization of Machine Learning Algorithms for Predicting In-hospital Patient Charges for Congestive Heart Failure Exacerbations, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations and Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Arnold Monique , Liou Lathan , Boland Mary Regina
Published: June 2024

Background
Hospitalizations for exacerbations of congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) are costly in the United States. The purpose of this study was to predict in-hospital charges for each condition using machine learning (ML) models.
Results
We conducted a retrospective cohort study on national discharge records of hospitalized adult patients from January 1st, 2016, to December 31st, 2019. We used numerous ML techniques to predict in-hospital total cost. We found that linear regression (LM), gradient boosting (GBM) and extreme gradient boosting (XGB) models had good predictive performance and were statistically equivalent, with training R-square values ranging from 0.49–0.95 for CHF, 0.56–0.95 for COPD, and 0.32–0.99 for DKA. We identified important key features driving costs, including patient age, length of stay, number of procedures. and elective/nonelective admission.
Conclusions
ML methods may be used to accurately predict costs and identify drivers of high cost for COPD exacerbations, CHF exacerbations and DKA. Overall, our findings may inform future studies that seek to decrease the underlying high patient costs for these conditions.
Inter-rater agreement and variability in visual reading and of [18F]Flutemetamol PET
Authors: Takenaka Akinori , Nihashi Takashi , Sakurai Keita , Notomi Keiji , Ono Hokuto , Inui Yoshitaka , Ito Shinji , Arahata Yutaka , Takeda Akinori , Ishii Kazunari , Ishii Kenji , Ito Kengo , Toyama Hiroshi , Nakamura Akinori , Kato Takashi
Published: June 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to validate the concordance of visual ratings of [18F]flutemetamol amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) images and to investigate the correlation between the agreement of each rater and the Centiloid (CL) scale.
Methods: A total of 192 participants, clinically classified as cognitively normal (CN) (n=59), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (n=65), Alzheimer's disease (AD) (n=55), or non-AD dementia (n=13), participated in this study. Three experts conducted visual ratings of the amyloid PET images for all 192 patients, assigning a confidence level to each rating on a three-point scale (certain, probable, or neither). The positive or negative determination of amyloid PET results was made by majority vote. The CL value was calculated using the CapAIBL pipeline.
Results: Overall, 101 images were determined to be positive, while 91 images were negative. Of the 101 positive results, the three raters were in complete agreement for 92 results and in disagreement for 9 results. Of the 91 negative results, the three raters were in complete agreement for 75 results and in disagreement for 16 results. Interrater reliability among the three experts was particularly high, with both Fleiss’ kappa and Conger’s kappa measuring 0.83 (0.76-0.89). The CL value was significantly greater for positive cases with complete agreement and significantly lower for negative cases with complete agreement. Cases with rater disagreement had intermediate CLs. In cases with a high confidence level, the visual ratings judged as positive or negative were in almost complete agreement. However, as confidence levels decreased, experts’ visual ratings became more variable. The lower the confidence level was, the greater the number of cases with disagreement in visual ratings.
Conclusions: Three experts independently rated 192 amyloid PET images, achieving a high level of interrater agreement. However, in patients with intermediate amyloid accumulation, visual ratings varied. Therefore, caution should be taken in determining positive and negative decisions in these patients.
Spontaneous high clonal expansion of Wilms’ tumor gene 1 (WT1)-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes in patients with WT1-expressing solid tumor
Authors: Morimoto Soyoko , Tanaka Yukie , Nakata Jun , Fujiki Fumihiro , Hasegawa Kana , Nakajima Hiroko , Nishida Sumiyuki , Tsuboi Akihiro , Hosen Naoki , Kagawa Naoki , Maruno Motohiko , Myoui Akira , Enomoto Takayuki , Izumoto Shuichi , Sekimoto Mitsugu , Hashimoto Naoya , Yoshimine Toshiki , Kumanogoh Atsushi , Oji Yusuke , Oka Yoshihiro , Sugiyama Haruo
Published: June 2024

Wilms’ tumor protein 1 (WT1)-targeted immunotherapy has been used in patients with leukemia and solid tumors. However, the spontaneous WT1-specific immune response before WT1 peptide vaccination in patients with WT1-expressing tumors (PTs) remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated whether WT1-specific cytotoxic CD8+ T-lymphocytes (CTLs) are clonally expanded in the peripheral blood outside of tumor sites. Clonal expansion of WT1126 peptide (a.a.126–134)-specific CTLs (WT1126-CTLs) was compared between seven PTs and five healthy volunteers (HVs), and their T-cell receptors (TCRs) were analyzed at the single-cell level. Overall, 433 and 351 TCR β-chains of WT1126-CTLs were detected from PTs and HVs, respectively, and complementarity-determining region 3 was sequenced for clonality analysis. The frequencies of WT1126-CTLs were higher in human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A*02:01+ PTs than in HLA-A*02:01+ HVs, although the difference was not statistically significant. WT1126-CTLs of differentiated types, including memory and effector, were higher in PTs than in HVs, whereas those of the naïve type were higher in HVs than in PTs. WT1126-CTL clonality was significantly higher in PTs than in HVs. Furthermore, the frequency of effector WT1126-CTLs positively correlated with WT1126-CTL clonality in PTs, whereas the frequency of naïve phenotype WT1126-CTLs tended to be negatively correlated with clonality. In conclusion, these results suggest that the WT1 protein in tumor cells is highly immunogenic, thereby stimulating endogenous naïve-type WT1126-CTLs and enabling them to clonally expand and differentiate into effector-type WT1126-CTLs.
Evapotranspiration Measurements in Pasture Classes, Crops, and Native Cerrado Based on Sensors Embodied on Uavs
Authors: Lima Gabriella Santos Arruda , Ferreira Manuel Eduardo , Sales Jepherson Correia , Passos Joelson Souza , Madari Beata Emoke , Carvalho Márcia Thaís Melo , Machado Pedro Luiz Oliveira Almeida
Published: June 2024

In Brazil, agriculture consumes most of the available freshwater, especially in the Cerrado biome, where the rain cycle is marked by long periods of drought. This study, conducted at Embrapa Arroz e Feijão [Rice and Beans] unit in Santo Antônio de Goiás, Goiás, estimated evapotranspiration (ET) in different crops and soil cover. Using multispectral Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) images and weather station data, we applied the "Simple Algorithm for Evapotranspiration Retrieving" (SAFER) to calculate ET in bean, pasture, and Semideciduous Seasonal Forest areas. The results showed a good agreement between UAV and satellite data, with R² = 0.84, also validated with flow towers by the eddy covariance method. UAV-based ET was observed to correspond well to tower (EC) during full vegetative development of beans but is underestimated at the beginning of planting and in the final periods of plant senescence, due to the influence of soil or straw cover. These findings contribute to a better understanding of water dynamics in the system and to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. This method, adapted for multispectral aerial imaging, can be applied flexibly and on demand, in different contexts and ground cover. The study highlights the importance of integrated agricultural practices for better management of water resources and preservation of the Cerrado in balance with cultivation areas.
Investigating the Propagating effects of Griseofulvin on Erectile Dysfunction: A Comprehensive Computational and Molecular Docking Study on Human Phosphodiesterase 5 proteins (1UDT and 1UDU).
Authors: Shinggu John , Etim Emmanuel , Humphrey Samuel , Bako Bulus
Published: June 2024

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent condition affecting a significant portion of the male population. This research delves into the potential link between Griseofulvin, a known antifungal medication, and its impact on erectile function. A comprehensive computational approach was employed. Optimization of griseofulvin was carried out using the highly reputable density functional theory (DFT) with the B3LYP functional and 6–31*G(d,p) using water and ethanol as the solvents of interest. We explored the interactions of Griseofulvin with Human Phosphodiesterase 5 proteins (PDE5), specifically targeting the crystal structures 1UDT and 1UDU. Molecular docking studies provided valuable insights into the binding mechanisms of Griseofulvin with PDE5, shedding light on potential allosteric modulation and conformational changes. Further molecular docking studies were carried out on other popular antifungal drugs like amphotericin, terbinafine and ketoconazole in order to compare their interactions with 1UDT and 1UDU with that of griseofulvin. Through an array of computational analyses, including molecular dynamics simulations and binding free energy calculations, we aimed to elucidate the propagating effects of Griseofulvin on the catalytic activity and structural stability of PDE5. The findings from this research could contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying Griseofulvin's impact on erectile function, potentially opening avenues for the development of novel therapeutic interventions for ED.
Structural disadvantage and HIV risk – comparing risk factors between trans women’s partnerships with cis men and trans women sexual partners
Authors: Wilson Erin C. , Suprasert Bow , Trujillo Dillon , Sicro Sofia , Hernandez Christopher J. , Turner Caitlin M. , McFarland Willi , Arayasirikul Sean
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Little is known about differences in HIV risk for trans women by partner gender, particularly with respect to social determinants and partner-level circumstances that affect behavior. We examined differences in demographic, social determinants, and HIV-related risk behaviors for trans women with cis men and trans women sexual partners.
Materials and Methods: Data are from a cross-sectional survey of trans women and their sexual partners conducted between April 2020 and January 2021. Interviews were held remotely during shelter-in-place due to Covid-19 via videoconference. Analysis characterizedassociations between HIV risk and protective behaviors comparing trans women with cisgender men partners to trans women with non-cisgender sexual partners.
Results: A total of 336 sexual partners were identified from 156 trans women. Trans women with cis men partners had significantly less education and employment and more incarceration and recidivism than trans women with trans women partners. Trans women and their cisgender men partners had shared experiences of unstable housing, incarceration, and HIV. Trans women with cisgender men partners reported significantly more sex exchange partners, receptive condomless sex, receptive or insertive condomless sex while using substances, and HIV infection compared to trans women with trans women partners.
Conclusions:Trans women with cisgender men sexual partners faced higher HIV risk than trans women with trans women sexual partners. These risks may be related to the social and economic drivers that both trans women and their cis men partners faced, including barriers to education and employment, along with incarceration and recidivism. Interventions focused on economic stability, workforce development and post incarceration re-entry support for housing and employment for trans women with cis men partners and the cisgender men partners as well may have the most impact on reducing HIV risk and incidence.
A multi-objective UAV fault diagnosis framework based on attention joint multi-spatial shared knowledge
Authors: An Xue , Li Shaobo , Zhang Yizong , Shen Mingming , Wang Yan , Wu Xiao
Published: June 2024

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have had excellent performance in various fields, but their frequent component faults often lead to damages and serious accidents, so it is crucial to carry out timely fault diagnosis for them. Deep learning is widely used in the field of UAV fault diagnosis due to its superior feature extraction capability, but the increasing complexity of UAV faults and the scarcity of data have limited the development of deep learning in this field. To address the above problems, this paper proposed an Attention-based Joint Multi-Spatial Shared Knowledge Network (A-MSKN) for multi-objective fault diagnosis of UAVs under small samples. A-MSKN considers both complementary relationships between different tasks and intra-task dependencies within the same task for individual fault samples in different time intervals. Firstly, a single fault sample is divided into multiple sub-samples based on different time slices, and different sub-samples are coded to obtain different feature sub-spaces. Then, a sharing unit based on attention is designed to share not only the different feature subspaces within a task but also the features related between different tasks in a more fully shared way, to obtain more fault information for fault diagnosis under small samples. Finally, the effectiveness of the A-MSKN in the case of small samples was verified by testing it on real faulty flight data.
Prevalence and associated risk factors of stunting, wasting/thinness, and underweight among primary school children in Kandahar city, Afghanistan: a cross-sectional analytical study
Authors: Rahimi Bilal Ahmad , Khalid Aziz Ahmad , Lali Wais Mohammad , Khalid Wahid Ahmad , Rahimi Javed Ahmad , Taylor Walter R
Published: June 2024

Background Undernutrition, which includes stunting, wasting, and underweight, is a global problem, especially among children of low- and middle-income countries. To our knowledge, this study is first of its type from Afghanistan. Its main objectives were to estimate the prevalence and associated risk factors of stunting, wasting/thinness, and underweight among primary school children in Kandahar city of Afghanistan.Methods This school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1205 primary school children aged 6–12 years during a period of six months (October 2022–March 2023). Anthropometric measurements and other data were collected from all the participants. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, Chi square test, and multivariate logistic regression.Results Among the 1205 enrolled school students, 83.6% had undernutrition, with 47.4%, 19.5%, and 25.6% having stunting, wasting/thinness, and underweight, respectively. Statistically significant factors associated with stunting were age group 6–9 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.7), being girl (AOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.8–3.0), poverty (AOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5–3.2), large family (AOR 3.0, 95% CI 2.4–3.9), uneducated mother (AOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.0–2.6), jobless head of the family (AOR 3.3, 95% CI 2.3–4.8), and skipping breakfasts (AOR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2–2.3). Main factor associated with wasting/thinness were age group 6–9 years (AOR 30.5, 95% CI 11.8–78.7), skipping breakfasts (AOR 22.9, 95% CI 13.9–37.8), and history of sickness during the past two weeks (AOR 17.0, 95% CI 6.6–43.8). Also, main factors associated with underweight were age group 6–9 years (AOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.6–4.1), skipping breakfasts (AOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.8–3.6), and poor sanitation (AOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1–3.2).Conclusions Stunting, wasting/thinness, and underweight are highly prevalent among primary school children (both girls and boys) in Kandahar city. It is recommended that local government (Afghanistan Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health) with the help of international organizations and donor agencies should implement comprehensive school-based feeding programs, as well as conduct health and nutrition education programs for the improvement of health and nutritional status of school children in Kandahar.
Identification of hub genes and potential molecular mechanisms in MSS/MSI classifier primary colorectal cancer based on multiple datasets
Authors: Qiao Xia , Zhang Xu
Published: June 2024

Objective
MSI has a better prognosis than MSS in colorectal cancer patients, and the main objective of this study was to screen MSI/MSS primary colorectal cancer differentially expressed molecules by bioinformatics.
Material and methods
Two gene expression datasets (GSE13294 and GSE13067) were downloaded from GEO, and differential expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed using GEO2R. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genomes and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis were achieved using the differentially expressed genes. Furthermore, a Protein-Protein Interaction Networks (PPI) was constructed to screen for significant modules and identify hub genes. The hub genes were analyzed using GEPIA in colorectal cancer. Expression of hub genes in clinical samples was visualized by the online Human Protein Atlas (HPA).
Results
A total of 266 common DEGs were identified in MSS primary colorectal cancer compared with MSI primary colorectal cancer. Among these, 178 DEGs were upregulated and 87 DEGs were downregulated. Enrichment analysis showed that set enrichment was associated with response to response to mechanical stimulus, regulation of cellular response to stress, g protein coupled receptor binding, and other processes. A total of 5 hub genes was identified by cytoHubba: HNRNPL, RBM39, HNRNPH1, TRA2A, SRSF6. GEPIA software online analysis, 5 hub gene expression in colorectal cancer survival curve did not have significant differences. The expression of RBM39 was significantly different in different stages of colorectal cancer. Then, HPA online database of results show that the five hub protein expression varied widely in CRC patients.
Conclusion
The hub genes, such as HNRNPH1and RBM39, and the spliceosome resulting from DEGs, which may provide novel insights and evidence for the future diagnosis and targeted therapy of MSS/MSI PCRC.
Experimental research on damage characteristics of red sandstone under the combined action of temperature, water and stress
Authors: Bao Xiankai , Qiao Jianlong , Yu Chaoyun , Tian Baolong , Wang Lingyu , Zhang Xiaofan
Published: June 2024

In order to study the damage properties of red sandstone under combined action of temperature, water and stress, the uniaxial compression test was carried out for red sandstone after immersing in water for 0.5 hours, 1 hour and 3 hours at 25℃, 55℃, 85℃ and 95℃, the mechanical properties, characteristic stress points, acoustic emission RA-AF parameters and failure forms of red sandstone were analyzed, the damage constitutive equation was established, and the damage properties of red sandstone were studied. The results showed: (1) Temperature could significantly improve the saturated water content percentage of red sandstone. With the increase of temperature, the saturated water content percentage showed a trend of increase first and then decrease, and was the largest at 55℃; with the increase of temperature, the mechanical parameters (peak intensity, elasticity modulus, and stress at start point of expansion) decreased first and then increased, and was the smallest at 55℃; (2) The ratio of crack initiation stress to peak stress (σci/σf) increased first and then decreased at the same time of immersing in water as temperature increased, and decreased first and then increased as the time of immersing in water increased at the same temperature; (3) Acoustic emission RA-AF signals are primarily found in the stable and unstable crack extension stages, with most signals concentrated in the tensile areas. As immersion time increases, there is a gradual decrease in the total number of signals, while the proportion of signals in the shearing areas significantly increases. This is relatively consistent with the patterns of failure observed in red sandstone experiments; (4) The damage of temperature, water and stress on red sandstone is categorized into initial damage and load damage, and the damage constitutive equation of red sandstone under the joint action of temperature-water-load is established, which is applicable to red sandstone in water-saturated state below 100℃, The research results can provide certain theoretical references for practical engineering.
Flexible DC distribution network fault protection method based on transient characteristics differences of fault current
Authors: Zeng Zhi-hui , Li Jia-yin , Wei Yan-fang , Wang Xiao-wei , Zheng Ying-ying
Published: June 2024

To improve the rapidity and accuracy of fault detection in multi-terminal flexible DC distribution networks with modular multilevel converters. A protection method based on the transient characteristic difference of fault current is proposed. First, the parameters of the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) are optimized using the Aquila Optimizer algorithm. So that, the feature extraction effect is optimal. Secondly, the distinction in the magnitude of internal and external fault currents is deduced through detailed fault characterization. Thus, the energy moment eigenvalue of the fault current is used to construct the internal and external fault criterion. Then, depending on the distinction between the faulty and sound pole currents during internal fault. The ratio of the singular value of the positive and negative pole currents is taken to create the differentiation criterion of faulty pole. This protection scheme can reliably and sensitively recognize various types of short-circuit faults by only using DC line single-end current signals. Finally, the validity and robustness of this method are confirmed by simulating and analyzing under different working conditions.
Expression of apoptosis-related proteins in injured muscle tissue of rats before and after death
Authors: Li Shoutian , Zhong Yunlong , Yu Anxiao , Zhang Zhongqing , Tan Li , Liu Yong
Published: June 2024

Objective To study the expression of Bax, Bcl-2 and Caspase-3, three apoptosis-related proteins after skeletal muscle injury in rats, and explore their application value in distinguishing antemortem and postmortem injuries.
Methods 42 healthy adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control group, antemortem injury group and postmortem injury group. The gastrocnemius muscle injury of the right hind limb of rats was made. The feasibility of the model was verified by HE staining. The mRNA expression was detected by Q-PCR. The expression of Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 proteins was detected through Western Blot, the data were centralized and standardized respectively, and orthogonal partial least square-discriminate analysis (OPLS -DA) of antemortem and postmortem injuries was established.
Results HE staining cannot accurately distinguish between antemortem and postmortem injuries; The changing trend of Caspase-3 mRNA expression is consistent with the protein expression trend; the protein expression levels of Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 were centered and standardized and analyzed through OPLS -DA. The model can distinguish antemortem injury or postmortem injury samples.
Conclusion The expression of Bax, Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 proteins in local tissues of rat skeletal muscle injury can be used to differentiate between antemortem and postmortem injuries.
Metabolomic Profiling of COVID-19 Using Serum and Urine Samples in Intensive Care and Medical Ward Cohorts
Authors: Tristán Ana Isabel , Jiménez-Luna Cristina , Abreu Ana Cristina , Arrabal-Campos Francisco Manuel , Salmerón Ana del Mar , Rodríguez Firma Isabel , Maresca Manuel Ángel Rodríguez , García Antonio Bernardino , Melguizo Consolación , Prados José Carlos , Fernández Ignacio
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic remains a significant global health threat, with uncertainties persisting regarding the factors determining whether individuals experience mild symptoms, severe conditions, or succumb to the disease. This study presents an NMR metabolomics-based approach, analyzing 80 serum and urine samples from COVID-19 patients (34 intensive care patients and 46 hospitalized patients) and 32 from healthy controls. Our research identifies discriminant metabolites and clinical variables relevant to COVID-19 diagnosis and severity. We propose a three-metabolite diagnostic panel—comprising isoleucine, TMAO, and glucose—that effectively discriminates COVID-19 patients from healthy individuals, achieving high efficiency. Recognizing that serum profiles are more reliable but invasive compared to urine samples, we propose reconstructing serum profiles using urine 1H NMR data. Our robust multi-output regression model demonstrates high accuracy in this reconstruction, and in classifying the converted serum spectroscopic profile. This suggests the feasibility of determining COVID-19 infection and predicting its severity using a non-invasive sample such as urine.
Dietary supplementation with hesperidin increased growth, antioxidant capacity, and transcription of immune-related genes in Litopenaeus vannamei (Boone 1931)
Authors: Arshadi Ali , Azhdari Ashkan
Published: June 2024

We examined the effects of the flavonoid hesperidin on nonspecific immunity gene expression, antioxidant capacity and growth performance of Litopenaeus vannamei. Four isonitrogen-containing (~ 38%) diets were formulated and supplemented with hesperidin at 0 (control; T1), 100 (T2), 200 (T3), and 300 (T4) mg kg− 1. Shrimps (2.45 ± 0.17 g) were placed in 12 circular fiberglass tanks filled with 150 L of seawater, and each feed treatment was done in triplicate. Shrimps were hand-fed three times daily for 8 weeks at 7% of their original biomass. According to the results, the growth rate of shrimps T3 was significantly higher (∼2.83 g) than that of the control. The feed conversion ratio in shrimp fed hesperidin-enriched feeds was better compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Shrimps T3 and T1 showed the highest and lowest plasma biochemical parameters, respectively (P < 0.05), while the other groups had intermediate values. Shrimps T3 and T1 had the highest and lowest plasma phenoloxidase activity, respectively. Catalase activity, glutathione peroxidase activity and superoxide dismutase activity in hepatopancreas were increased by dietary hesperidin supplementation, while malondialdehyde level was significantly decreased by increasing dietary hesperidin level (P < 0.05). The relative abundance of the mRNA transcript of the genes prophenoloxidase, lysozyme, penaeidin-3α and heat shock protein 70 in the hepatopancreas of T3 was significantly higher than in the other groups. Based on the above findings, consumption of aquafeeds containing 200 mg hesperidin kg− 1 can enhance growth performance in L. vannamei juvenile by promoting antioxidant capacity and immune responses.
Probing the distribution of rare earth ions in glass-ceramics by the properties of Er3+ ion probes
Authors: Chen Zhixin , Cui Wenzhe , Yang Ju , Tian Jiayu , Ren Guozhong
Published: June 2024

Glass and glass-ceramic samples with matrix of SiO2-PbF2 system were firstly prepared. The glass was transformed into glass-ceramics by heat treatment, and the effect of different heat treatment times in this process on the microenvironment of rare earth ions into the glass-ceramics was investigated. The proportion of Er3+ entering the glass-ceramics during heat treatment was calculated by using J-O theory combined with absorption spectroscopy using Er3+ as a probe. On the other hand, Er3+ was used as a probe to investigate and analyze the changes of the crystalline phase of the glass-ceramics by combining fluorescence spectra, absorption spectra, and XRD changes. The results show that the XRD patterns indicate that heat treatment of the precursor glass at the transition temperature produces rapid crystalline deposition of PbF2, but most of the rare earth ions are still present in the glass phase. And with the gradual increase of the heat treatment time, the rare earth ions in the glass phase gradually enter into the fluoride nanocrystals, but this process is not synchronized with the crystallization process.
Rare pathogenic structural variants show potential to enhance prostate cancer germline testing for African men
Authors: Hayes Vanessa , Gong Tingting , Jiang Jue , Bornman Riana , Gheybi Kazzem , Stricker Phillip , Weischenfeldt Joachim , Mutambirwa Shingai
Published: June 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is highly heritable, with men of African ancestry at greatest risk and associated lethality. Lack of representation in genomic data means germline testing guidelines exclude for African men. Established that structural variations (SVs) are major contributors to human disease and prostate tumourigenesis, their role is under-appreciated in familial and therapeutic testing. Utilising a clinico-methodologically matched African (n = 113) versus European (n = 57) deep-sequenced PCa resource, we interrogated 42,966 high-quality germline SVs using a best-fit pathogenicity prediction workflow. We identified 15 potentially pathogenic SVs representing 12.4% African and 7.0% European patients, of which 72% and 86% met germline testing standard-of-care recommendations, respectively. Notable African-specific loss-of-function gene candidates include DNA damage repair MLH1 and BARD1 and tumour suppressors FOXP1, WASF1 and RB1. Representing only a fraction of the vast African diaspora, this study raises considerations with respect to the contribution of kilo-to-mega-base rare variants to PCa pathogenicity and African associated disparity.
Relaciones interétnicas en el caribe colombiano. Una aproximación etnográfica al caso zenú
Authors: Larraín América
Published: June 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es describir y analizar elementos significativos presentes en las relaciones e interacciones que ocurren entre los indígenas zenú y otras poblaciones circundantes, con énfasis en trazos de lo que podría ser catalogado como «reciprocidad negativa». Las herramientas metodológicas empleadas para la recolección de datos fueron la entrevista y la observación participante, como parte de una etnografía prolongada en el territorio zenú. Los resultados más relevantes de este estudio indican que manifestaciones clasificables como celos/envidia, que están presentes explícitamente en las relaciones interétnicas (entre indígenas y población blanco/mestiza), se extienden muchas veces a las relaciones entre los que allí se denominan «más indios» y «menos indios». En las conclusiones de este trabajo se retoman reflexiones etnológicas que evidencian cómo los sentimientos y emociones mencionados son elementos fundamentales de la sociabilidad, pues modelan y refuerzan jerarquías locales, buscando balancear relaciones históricas de opresión y desventaja.
Organic coffee production: mapping trends through bibliometric analysis
Authors: Gómez-Ortiz Milton Marino , Vivares-Vergara Jorge Andrés
Published: June 2024

Organic coffee (OC) cultivation, known for its environmental advantages and potential economic value, is this article's focal point; because of the limited literature available, the objective is to pinpoint research trends in OC production to advance the sector's socioeconomic development. A bibliometric analysis was conducted by searching Scopus and Web of Science, while the Tree of Science (ToS) algorithm was applied to reveal the field's intellectual structure and current research trends, identifying a total of 360 scientific documents, reflecting a growing interest in various aspects of organic coffee; This article provides significant insights into the evolution of scientific production, the countries involved, prominent journals, authors, and their collaborative networks. Three key trends emerged: 1) Fair trade and gender equality, 2) Certifications and sustainability, and 3) Sustainable agroecological strategies. In conclusion, this study underscores the need for further research into various facets of organic coffee production, especially in countries where poverty alleviation and value creation are paramount.
Drug Release and Stability Study of Innovated Losartan Potassium and
Rosuvastatin Calcium Fixed-dose Combination Tablet
Authors: Zeb Mian Inaam , Khan Salimullah , Ataya Farid S. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Kashtoh Hamdy , Khan Ajmal , Al-Harrasi Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Background:

Patient adherence to therapy and compliance is always a challenge for care providers
in the management of chronic disorders with multiple medications.

Objective:

Our study focused on formulating concurrently prescribed ARB (Angiotensin Receptor Blocker),
i.e., losartan potassium, and a cholesterol-lowering statin derivative, i.e., rosuvastatin calcium, in a fixed-dose
combination tablet.

Methods:

The drugs were selected based on the presence of synergism and variation in solubility characteristics.
Trial batches with fixed concentrations of both active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and varying
quantities of different excipients were prepared by dry granulation technique and subjected to different quality
control tests for tablets. Batch F5 was selected on the basis of in-process quality control data for the development
of a drug release protocol. Experimental conditions were optimized. Based on the sink condition, phosphate
buffer (pH 6.8) was selected as the dissolution medium. Simultaneous determination of both APIs in
samples collected at predetermined time intervals was carried out using the RP-HPLC technique with acetonitrile,
methanol, and water (20:25:55 v/v/v) as mobile phase.

Results:

Complete dissolution of both APIs in the FDC tablet was achieved in 45 min in 900 mL of the selected
medium. The in vitro drug release protocol was validated for accuracy and precision without interference
with sample analysis.

Conclusion:

In this study, a validated, accurate, and robust dissolution testing method was developed for the
newly formulated FDC tablet.
Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Pyrazoleacetamide Derivatives
Authors: Kachi Onkar G. , Pawar Hari R. , Chabukswar Anuruddha R. , Jagdale Swati , Swamy Vishwanath , Vinayak Kadam , Hingane Dattatray , Shinde Mahadev , Pawar Nagesh
Published: June 2024

Background:

Fungal infections have posed a big challenge in the management of their
treatment. Due to the resistance and toxicity of existing drug molecules in the light of pandemic
infections, like COVID-19, there is an urgent need to find newer derivatives of active molecules,
which can be effective in fungal infections.

Objective:

In the present study, we aimed to design pyrazole derivatives using molecular modeling
studies against target 1EA1 and synthesize 10 molecules of pyrazole derivatives using a multi-step
synthesis approach.

Methods:

Designed pyrazole derivatives were synthesized by conventional organic methods. The
newly synthesized pyrazole molecules were characterized by using FT-IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and
LC-MS techniques. Molecular docking studies were also performed. The antifungal activity of
newly synthesized compounds was assessed in vitro against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger
using the well plate method.

Results:

Two of the compounds, OK-7 and OK-8, have been found to show significant docking
interaction with target protein 1EA1. These two compounds have also been found to show significant
anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans and Aspergillus nigra when compared to the
standard fluconazole. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value of these two compounds
has been found to be 50 μg/ml.

Conclusion:

Pyrazole derivatives with -CH3, CH3O-, and -CN groups have been found to be active
against tested fungi and can be further explored for their potential as promising anti-fungal agents
for applications in the field of medicinal chemistry.
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Impact of Metabolic Surgery on Hepatic Stiffness
Authors: Jamialahamdi Tannaz , Kroh Matthew , Ashari Sorour , Almahmeed Wael , Jangjoo Ali , Simental-Mendía Luis E , Salehabadi Sepideh , Al-Rasadi Khalid , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2024

Background:

Bariatric surgery is one of the effective therapeutic options for people
with obesity and obesity-related co-morbidities. In addition to weight-related co-morbid diseases,
including diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
(NAFLD) is common in patients with morbid obesity. Bariatric surgery is one of the therapeutic
options in the management of NAFLD. Hence, this review focused on the potential role of bariatric
surgery on hepatic elasticity measured through shear wave elastography.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed, and the studies regarding heterogeneity
were evaluated using the random-effects model.

Results:

The meta-analysis on 6 trials (3-12 months follow-up) including 350 participants showed
a significant reduction of liver elasticity after surgery (WMD: -1.149, 95% CI: -1.767, -0.532, p <
0.001; I2:81.55%).

Conclusion:

Bariatric surgery is associated with decreased liver elasticity. This improvement
could be related to weight loss or other mechanisms of bariatric surgery.