bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infiltrating Peripheral Monocyte TREM-1 Mediates Dopaminergic Neuron Injury in Substantia Nigra of Parkinson's Disease Model Mice
Authors: Zhang Yong-mei , Song Wei , Zhou Zi-ming , Zhang Le-le , Shu Hai-feng , Xia Jin-ru , qin Xia , Hua Rong
Published: April 2024

Background
Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Activated microglia in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripherally infiltrating immune cells contribute to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. However, how the peripheral immune system leads to neuron loss and whether blocking this response slows disease progression remain largely unknown. Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1), a key regulator of inflammation, plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of infection and noninfection-related inflammation. However, the specific role of TREM-1 in PD has not yet been determined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the immune regulation mechanism of monocyte TREM-1 on dopaminergic neurons and motor function in PD.
Methods
First, we evaluated TREM-1 expression and monocyte infiltration in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) in a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine hydrochloride (MPTP)-related neurotoxic model of PD by western blot, qRT-PCR, and flow cytometry. Second, we determined the level of TREM-1 and the extent of dopaminergic neuronal injury in the SNpc after the depletion of peripheral monocytes. Motor function was assessed by the open field test, pole test, and rotarod test. Third, to determine the actual role of TREM-1 in the PD, we analyzed the effects of TREM-1 inhibition on monocytes infiltration. Assays examining dopaminergic neuron degeneration and neuroinflammation include immunofluorescence, western blot, and qRT-PCR. To corroborate the dopaminergic terminal loss in the striatum we quantified the concentration of dopamine in the striatum using High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, we conducted an adoptive transfer of TREM-1-producing monocytes from PD model mice to investigate whether monocytes induce dopaminergic neuron injury and motor dysfunction in a TREM-1-dependent manner.
Results
MPTP administration successfully induced subacute PD model and increased peripheral blood inflammatory monocyte levels. Deletion of peripheral monocytes protected against MPTP neurotoxicity in the SNpc. TREM-1 inhibition genetically or pharmacologically dampens the peripheral innate response, reduces the accumulation of infiltrating monocytes, and efficiently prevents dopaminergic neuron injury in the SNpc. Adoptive transfer of TREM-1-producing monocytes from PD model mice was sufficient to induce dopaminergic neurons and motor deficits in naive mice.
Conclusion
These results indicate the critical role of peripheral monocytes in the pathogenesis of PD and suggest that inhibiting monocyte TREM-1 expression is a promising therapeutic approach for the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the SNpc in PD patients.
Electrochemical visualization of latent fingerprints using polyphenazine dyes on brass cartridges
Authors: Hermochová Sára , Hlavín Petr , Novotný Michal , Vrňata Martin , Broncova Gabriela
Published: April 2024

This work is focused on the visualization of latent fingerprints left on unfired brass cartridges. Polymer films were prepared from 2 mM neutral red or 5 mM toluidine blue using two different electrochemical methods (cyclic voltammetry or chronoamperometry) with relatively short polymerization times. The conditions for the deposition of conductive polymers, poly(neutral red) and poly(toluidine blue), from a neutral medium (phosphate buffer with 0.1 M KNO3 or 0.1 M KNO3, respectively) were optimized to preserve genetic information while producing highquality visualization of the remaining fingerprints on the brass substrates. The surface morphology and quality of the polymer films after the electrochemical deposition of both polyphenazine dyes were optically characterized. Phenazine dyes, which were used for the visualization of fingerprints, have been shown to provide different degrees of homogeneity in the deposited film. Furthermore, the dependence of the stability of the monomer solutions on their age, use and storage conditions are discussed. Finally, a methodology is proposed for how to apply this technique of visualizing latent fingerprints with observed details of papillary lines in forensic practice.
RETRACTED: Problematic Series Watching and Alcohol Consumption among Global Audiences of Korean Drama in Israel and Indonesia
Authors: Bonny-Noach Hagit , Yenny Sinambela , Enjeline Hanafi , Chen Shina , Kristiana Siste
Published: April 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Prediction of Suitable Habitats for sect. Tuberculata (Camellia L.) Based on the MaxEnt Model
Authors: Xiao Xu , Li zhi , Ran Zhaohui , Yan Chao , Chen Juyan
Published: April 2024

Sect. Tuberculata as one of the endemic plant groups in China, it belonging to the genus Camellia of the Theaceae family, possessing significant economic and ecological value. Nevertheless, the characteristics of habitat distribution and the major eco-environmental variables affecting its suitability are poorly understood. In this study, we have using 65 occurrence records along with 60 environmental factors, historical, present and future suitable habitats were estimated using MaxEnt modeling, and the important environmental variables affecting its geographical distribution were analyzed. The results indicate that the size of the potential habitat area of it in the current climate was 1.05 × 105 km2, and the highly suitable habitats were located in Guizhou, central-southern Sichuan, the Wuling Mountains in Chongqing, the Panjiang Basin, and southwestern Hunan. The highest probability of presence for it occurs at bio2 ≤ 7.83 °C, S_bs ≤ 53.36%, bio7 ≤ 27.49 °C, -7.75 °C < bio9 < 7.75 °C, uvb2 ≤ 1.31 × 105 W/m2, and uvb3 ≤ 5089.61 W/m2. In particular, bio2 is the most important environmental factor for it. During thehistorical, the potential habitat area of it was severely fragmented; in contrast, it is much more contiguous in the current period. In the three future periods, the potential habitat area will change by varying degrees, depending on the aggressiveness of emissions reductions, and the increase in the potential habitat area was the largest in the RCP2.6 scenario. Although the RCP8.5 scenario indicated an expansion in the habitat of it in the short term, their growth and development would be adversely affected in the long term. In the centroid analysis, the centroid of the potential habitat of it will shift from lower to higher latitudes in the northwest direction. The findings of our study will aid efforts to uncover the origins of it, their geographic differentiations, conservation of unique germplasms, and forestry development and utilization.
COVID-19 vaccines and attributable risk of neurological disorders: a multicentre, case-control study (COVIVAX)
Authors: Pupillo Elisabetta , Bianchi Elisa , Beghi Ettore , Pedrazzini Francesco , Giglio Angela , Schilke Edoardo , Percetti Marco , Colleoni Carlo Morotti , Mainini Gabriele , Calabresi Paolo , Primiano Guido , Frisullo Giovanni , Padovani Alessandro , Cristillo Viviana , Pilotto Andrea , Arici Davide , Gipponi Stefano , Tedeschi Gioacchini , D'Ambrosio Alessandro , Melisi Rosario , Gallo Antonio , Bisecco Alvino , Salmaggi Andrea , Basilico Paola , Scaccabarozzi Chiara , Kiferle Lorenzo , Valenti Raffaella , Avino Gianluca , Borghi Annamaria , Contardi Sara , Zini Andrea , Ferrarese Carlo , Beretta Simone
Published: April 2024

The COVIVAX study investigated the attributable risk of common neurological disorders in previously neurologically-healthy persons exposed to COVID-19 vaccines. In a multicenter, case-control study, the proportions of individuals with a first diagnosis of a neurological disorder (cases) and controls were compared in vaccinated versus unvaccinated participants. A total of 624 participants were enrolled. The most frequent neurological diagnosis in cases were stroke (60.4%), multiple sclerosis (11.3%) and seizures (6.4%). The risk of developing a new neurological disorder was reduced in vaccinated participants, compared to unvaccinated ones (OR 0.50; 95% CI 0.29–0.86; p = 0.0114). The number of doses received was associated with a reduced risk of developing new neurological disorders for participants aged over 60 years ( p = 0.0472; OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03–0.68), with pre-existing comorbidities (p = 0.0122; OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.01–0.99) and for stroke (p = 0.0232; OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.02–0.97). The COVIVAX study provided no warning sign regarding the risk of developing new neurological disorders following COVID-19 vaccination of any type or doses. A potentially protective effect of multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccines against the risk of stroke in people aged over 60 needs to be confirmed by further studies.
Photosynthesis promotes pre-protein processing and progression of chloroplast biogenesis during early plant development
Authors: Kessler Felix , Collombat Joy , Quadroni Manfredo , Douet Véronique , Pipitone Rosa , Longoni Fiamma
Published: April 2024

Photosynthetic activity is established during chloroplast biogenesis, but whether photosynthesis itself is required for chloroplast biogenesis has not been clarified. In this study we use 680nm red light to overexcite Photosystem II and disrupt photosynthesis in two conditional mutants (var2 and abc1k1) which reversibly arrests chloroplast biogenesis. During their biogenesis, chloroplasts import most proteins associated with photosynthesis. Some of these must be transported further across the thylakoid membrane into the thylakoid lumen by the evolutionarily conserved SEC (Secretory) and TAT (Twin Arginine Translocation) pathways, energized by ATP and the trans-thylakoid proton gradient, respectively. Most luminal thylakoid proteins are synthesized in the cytoplasm with bi-partite, cleavable targeting sequences (first for the chloroplast envelope, second for the thylakoid membrane). Two-stage cleavage of these peptides is a critical step of chloroplast biogenesis. Linked to the photosynthetic defect in var2 and abc1k1 under red light, six essential proteins at the thylakoid lumen side of Photosystems I and II were incompletely cleaved and intermediate forms accumulated to high levels in the mutants. The results show that the processing of a specific module of Photosystem-associated proteins and concomitantly progression of chloroplast biogenesis depend on active photosynthesis at the earliest stages of seedling development.
Correlation between triglyceride glucose-body mass index and hypertension in patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Li Kui , Yang Xueyuan , Liu Jun , Chen Lei , Xiao Hong , Yang Changlong , Chen Yuxuan , Li Yunhang , Wen Jiaojiao , Ma Yi , Xu Guanxue
Published: April 2024

The triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI index) is a simple, cost-effective, practical alternative marker for early detection of insulin resistance. However, studies on the relationship between TyG-BMI index and hypertension in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are limited. We investigated the relationship between TyG-BMI index and hypertension in patients with ACS. We included 2,635 patients with ACS. TyG-BMI index was grouped into tertiles. In the overall ACS population, after adjusting for covariates, multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that TyG-BMI index was an independent risk factor for hypertension in patients with ACS. In subgroup analyses, the TyG-BMI index was found to be an independent risk factor for hypertension in older, nondiabetic, and male ACS patients. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a nonlinear correlation between TyG-BMI index and hypertension in patients with ACS. The baseline risk model’s predictive power was not improved by the inclusion of TyG-BMI index in patients with ACS. TyG-BMI index was nonlinearly correlated with hypertension in patients with ACS, and the inclusion of TyG-BMI index did not enhance the predictive power of the baseline risk model in patients with ACS.
From Sutureless to Standard: A Comprehensive Analysis of Conversion Rates in Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy
Authors: Li Wenfeng , Hua Bao , Song Sangqing , Pan Weixin , Yang Qing , Xu Bin
Published: April 2024

Objective
To assess the rate at which sutureless partial nephrectomy (SLPN) transitions to standard partial nephrectomy (SPN), focusing on preoperative factors that might prompt such conversions.
Patients and methods
In this retrospective study, we analyzed the efficacy of SLPN performed on adults at our institution from 2016 to 2023. The subjects were patients diagnosed with localized solid renal tumors. The primary technique employed was wedge resection, complemented by intraoperative ultrasound localization and argon beam coagulation for hemostasis, with suturing techniques used only when necessary. Predictive factors necessitating conversion to SPN were identified, and the associations among multiple variables were explored using various statistical analysis methods, including logistic regression, to identify key preoperative predictive factors.
Results
Our institution performed 353 SLPN, with 21 cases (5.9%) necessitating conversion to SPN. The conversion rates for the Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy (LPN) subgroup and the Robotic-assist Partial Nephrectomy (RPN) subgroup were 7.9% (17/215) and 2.9% (4/138), respectively, nearing statistical significance (P = .066). Significant differences were observed between the conversion group and the no conversion group in terms of preoperative estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), age at surgery, tumor size, and exophytic/endophytic characteristics. Multivariate analysis identified age at surgery, preoperative eGFR, radiological tumor size, and tumor exophytic/endophytic nature as significant predictors for conversion to SPN.
Conclusion
This investigation highlights the efficacy and feasibility of SLPN while identifying critical factors influencing the necessity for conversion to SPN. The identified predictors, including younger surgical age, superior preoperative eGFR, and specific tumor characteristics, provide valuable insights for refining surgical strategies.
LdIL-2 Treatment in ASD: A Novel Immunotherapeutic Approach Targeting Th/Treg Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Cao Xia , Li Meng , Kui Xiuying , Yang Shujun , Nie Zuqing , Chen huiling , Yao Penghao , Xu Xinyi , Shen Chen , Li Zhiwei , Zhao Huijia , Wen Jie , Huang Xinwei , Yang Jingrui , Yan Jinyuan , Wang Pengfei , Li Bin
Published: April 2024

There was a large part of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were accompanied with immune imbalances. In this study, we attempted to ameliorate the core symptoms of autism by correcting the immune imbalance, especially the T-cell subpopulation imbalance, in BTBR mice with autism through low-dose IL-2 (LdIL-2). We administered LdIL-2 (30,000 IU) subcutaneously to BTBR mice and observed changes in autistic behaviors in the mice before and after treatment. Behavioral tests of the mice included three-chamber test, self-grooming test, sniffing test, marble burying test, and open field test. We also analyzed the changes in peripheral Th/Treg ratios and cytokines, as well as the changes in M1/M2 ratios of microglia in the central nervous system in mice using flow cytometry. Neuroinflammatory proteins in cerebrospinal fluid were detected by proteomic analysis. In addition, we depleted CD25 + Treg cells with PC61 followed by LdIL-2 intervention to observe the role of Treg cells in LdIL-2-treated BTBR mice. We found that the core symptoms of autism in BTBR mice were significantly improved after LdIL-2 treatment. LdIL-2 not only increased the level of Treg cells, reversed the imbalance of Th17/Treg and Tfh/Treg, and improved the immune imbalance. Meanwhile, central nervous system inflammation was reduced in mice. In contrast, the effect of LdIL-2 on behavioral improvement was attenuated after depletion of Treg cells by PC61. This is the first attempt to treat ASD with LdIL-2. LdIL-2 is safe and effective in improving core symptoms and immune imbalance in autism. Improvement in core symptoms was associated with an increase in Treg cell levels in the peripheral blood of BTBR mice after treatment with LdIL-2. LdIL-2 may be a potential therapy for the treatment of core symptoms of autism.
Spatial variability and uncertainty for under-vaccination and zero-dose in fragile settings: A model-based study of immunization coverage in Chad
Authors: Alegana Victor Adagi , Ticha Johnson M , Mathiu Jason M , Katsande Reggis , Gacic-Dobo Marta Marta , Danovaro Carolina M , Shey Charles W , Akpaka Kalu A , Kazembe Lawrence N , Impouma Benido
Published: April 2024

Universal access to childhood vaccination is important to child health and sustainable development. Here we identify, at a fine spatial scale, under-immunized children and zero-dose children. Using Chad, as an example, the most recent nationally representative household survey that included recommended vaccine antigens was assembled. Age-disaggregated population (12-23 months) and vaccination coverage were modelled at a fine spatial resolution scale (1km x 1 km) using a Bayesian geostatistical framework adjusting for a set of parsimonious covariates. There was a variation at fine spatial scale in the population 12-23 months a national mean of 18.6% (CrI 15.8% – 22.6%) with the highest proportion in the South-East district of Laremanaye 20.0% (14.8 – 25.0). Modelled coverage at birth was 49.0% (31.2% - 75.3%) for BCG, 44.8% (27.1 – 74.3) for DPT1, 24.7% (12.5 – 46.3) for DPT3 and 47.0% (30.6 – 71.0) for measles (MCV1). Combining coverage estimates with the modelled population at a fine spatial scale yielded 312,723 (Lower estimate 156,055 - 409,266) zero-dose children based on DPT1. Improving routine immunization will require investment in the health system as part of improving primary health care. Uncertainty highlights areas requiring further investigation and quality data to better understand coverage.
Right ventricular injury definition and management in patients with severe respiratory failure receiving veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a scoping review
Authors: Dugar Siddharth Pawan , Sato Ryota , Charlton Matthew , Hasegawa Daisuke , Antonini Marta Velia , Nasa Prashant , Yusuff Hakeem , Schultz Marcus J , Harnegie Mary Pat , Ramanathan Kollengode , Shekar Kiran , Schmidt Matthieu , Zochios Vasileios , Duggal Abhijit
Published: April 2024

Purpose:
Right ventricular (RV) injury in patients with respiratory failure receiving veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) is associated with significant mortality. A consensus on the definition and management of RV injury in patients receiving VV ECMO is currently lacking. Therefore, a scoping review is necessary to map the current literature and guide future research regarding the definition and management of RV injury in patients receiving VV ECMO.
Methods:
Using a robust scoping review methodology, we searched for relevant publications on RV injury in patients receiving VV ECMO in Medline, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Two authors extracted the data independently and in duplicate.
Results:
Of 1,868 citations screened, 30 studies reporting on RV injury during VV ECMO were identified. Of those, twenty-three studies reported on the definition of RV injury including echocardiographic indices of RV function and dimensions (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion or right to left ventricular end-diastolic area ratio, respectively). Thirteen studies reported on the management of RV injury, including veno-pulmonary (VP) ECMO, veno-arterial (VA) ECMO, positive inotropic agents, pulmonary vasodilators, ultra-lung-protective ventilation, and optimization of positive end-expiratory pressure.
Conclusion:
The definitions of RV injury in patients receiving VV ECMO used in the literature are heterogeneous. Despite the high incidence of RV injury during VV ECMO support and its strong association with mortality, studies investigating therapeutic strategies for RV injury are lacking. To fill the existing knowledge gaps, a consensus on the definition of RV injury and research investigating RV-targeted therapies during VV ECMO are urgently warranted.
Trial Registration
The search protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/e2km6).
In-vitro antibacterial activity and phytochemical analysis of leaf and stem bark crude extracts of Croton macrostachyus against selected pathogens, Wolaita Sodo, South Ethiopia
Authors: Sivalingam Krishna Moorthy , Yohanis Getayawukal , Meseret Gedif , Chutulo Eyob Chukalo , Marisennayya Senapathy
Published: April 2024

Background: Medicinal plants have long been used as antiseptic, antiallergic, antibacterial, and antiviral medicines to treat human ailments. Croton macrostachyus is one of the important medicinal plants that take an essential part in traditional African medicine, widely used to treat various disorders including diabetes, malaria, and dysentery.
Objective: The present research aimed to determine the in-vitro antibacterial activity of ethanol, methanol, and ethyl acetate extracts of C. macrostachyus leaf and stem barks against some selected human bacterial pathogens.
Methods: The leaf and stem barks extracts of C. macrostachyus were prepared by by maceration method using three different solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and ethyl acetate. The prepared crude extract was used to determine the antibacterial activity, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) using clinical laboratory standards institute guidelines. Qualitative phytochemical analyses were also performed using the standard protocol.
Results: The ethanolic, methanolic, and ethyl acetate crude leaf and stem bark extracts showed inhibitory actions against E. coli, P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. The gram-positive S. aureus was more susceptible to all the crude extracts. The inhibitory activity was concentration-dependent and the leaf crude extracts showed higher activity than stem bark extracts. The methanolic leaf crude extract showed the highest inhibitory activity when compared to ethanol and ethyl acetate. The MIC of methanolic, ethanolic and ethyl acetate crude leaf extracts ranged from 0.625-2.25 mg/ml against selected bacterial pathogens. The MBC results revealed that the methanolic, ethanolic, and ethyl acetate crude leaf extracts showed 1.25-5 mg/ml concentrations against selected bacterial pathogens. The qualitative phytochemical analysis results confirmed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, and phenolic compounds in both ethanolic and methanolic crude leaf extracts and except alkaloids in the ethyl acetate crude leaf extracts. The phytochemical qualitative analysis of stem bark crude extracts results indicated that glycosides were present, alkaloids, flavonoids and phenolic compounds were absent in all three solvent extraction systems, tannins, and saponins were positive with ethanol and ethyl acetate, negative with methanol solvent extractions.
Conclusion: The present study concluded that crude leaf extracts showed better antibacterial activity than stem bark extracts against selected pathogens and phytochemical analysis of crude leaf extracts confirmed the presence of phytochemical constituents in the crude extracts prepared from C. macrostachyus and thus, supports the traditional usage of the plant against various diseases.
Anatomical Study of Pterygoid Implants: Artery and Nerve Passage through Bone Dehiscence of the Greater Palatine Canal
Authors: Taniguchi Shuichiro , Yamamoto Masahito , Tanaka Tomohito , Yang Tianyi , Watanabe Genji , Sugiyama Yuki , Takagi Takahiro , Murakami Gen , Hayashi Shogo , Abe Shinichi
Published: April 2024

Purpose Pterygoid implants are an alternative approach to avoid sinus-lifting or other grafting procedures. During pterygoid implant placement, dental surgeons risk damaging the greater palatine canal (GPC). However, they do not have sufficient reasons to avoid GPC injury. This study performed a detailed morphological analysis of the GPC to determine susceptibility to damage during pterygoid implant surgery. Methods To understand the detailed morphology of the GPC, gross anatomical analysis, histological analysis, and bone morphometry via micro-computed tomography were performed. Results We found that the medial wall of the GPC communicated with the nasal cavity through the bone dehiscence. The dehiscence appeared near the inferior nasal concha in 72.4% of the patients. The nerve and artery passed from the GPC to the nasal mucous membrane through the dehiscence. Given that the greater palatine nerve passed medial to the descending palatine artery in the GPC, the descending palatine artery is damaged first rather than the greater palatine nerve during pterygoid implant surgery. Conclusions Dental surgeons who penetrate the GPC using an implant body may extend the bleeding to the nasal mucosa, which seems to spread the inflammation to the nasal cavity.
The Use of Hyaluronic Acid in a 3D Biomimetic Scaffold Supports Spheroid Formation and the Culture of Cancer Stem Cells.
Authors: Demirel Gamze , Cakıl Yaprak Donmez , Koltuk Gursel , Aktas Ranan Gulhan , Calıskan Mahmut
Published: April 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting culture models capable of reproducing the pathological architecture of diseases are increasingly advancing. In this study, 3D scaffolds were created using extrusion-based bioprinting method with alginate, gelatin, and hyaluronic acid to investigate the effects of hyaluronic acid on the physical properties of the bioscaffold as well as on the formation of liver cancer spheroids. Conformational analysis, rheological characterization, and swelling-degradation tests were performed to characterize the scaffolds. After generating spheroids from hepatocellular carcinoma cells on the 3D scaffolds, cell viability and proliferation assays were performed. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy were used into examine the expression of albumin, CD44, and E-cadherin to demonstrate functional capability and maturation levels of the spheroid-forming cells. The results show that hyaluronic acid in the scaffolds correlates with spheroid formation and provides high survival rates. It is also associated with an increase in CD44 expression and a decrease in E-cadherin, while there is no significant change in the albumin expression in the cells. Overall, the findings demonstrate that hyaluronic acid in a 3D hydrogel scaffold supports spheroid formation and may induce stemness. We present a promising 3D scaffold model for enhancing liver cancer spheroid formation and mimicking solid tumors. This model also has the potential for further studies to examine stem cell properties in 3D models.
Evaluation and comparison of infiltration models for estimating infiltration capacity of different textures of irrigated soils: Case of Northern Ethiopia.
Authors: Mesele Halefom , Grum Berhane , Aregay Gebremeskel , Teklay Gebremeskel
Published: April 2024

Determination of infiltration capacity is a very important parameter during the design and evaluation of irrigation systems. Accurate estimation of infiltration rates helps in optimizing irrigation scheduling, preventing soil erosion, and improving water use efficiency. This study was conducted to evaluate and compare selected infiltration models for estimating water infiltration rates of five soil textures in the Shillanat-iv- irrigation scheme in northern Ethiopia. Soil samples were taken from selected sites in the irrigation scheme for determining soil textural classes using the hydrometer texture laboratory analysis and the USDA textural triangle. Soil textural map of the irrigation area was prepared using inverse distance weight interpolation technique in ArcGIS version 10.4. The double ring infiltrometer was used to measure the infiltration rates of different soil textures in the irrigation scheme. Six selected infiltration models namely Kostiakov, Modified Kostiakov, Revised Modified Kostiakov, Philip, Horton, and Novel models were used to estimate infiltration rates for five soil textural classes namely, clay loam, loam, sandy clay loam, clay and sandy loam soils. To evaluate the performance of the models, infiltration rate was measured in 38 points of the study area, out of which 70% of the data was calibrating model parameters and 30% of the data was used for model validation. Parameters values of the infiltration models were optimized using the least-squares errors in SPSS statistical software. Five statistical parameters including the Coefficient of determination (R2), Maximum absolute error (MAE), Bias, Root mean square error (RMSE) and Percentage average error (PAE) were used to evaluate the performance of the infiltration models. Results indicated that the Revised Modified Kostiakov’s, Modified Kostiakov’s, and Novel’s infiltration models had better capability in estimating infiltration rates for clay loam, loam and sandy loam soil textures respectively. Similarly, the Hortons’s model had better performances in estimating infiltration rates of both sandy clay loam and clay soil textures compared to other models. In the design of the irrigation system, the best fitted infiltration models can be used for estimating the infiltration rate of soil textures in the selected irrigation scheme and other sites with similar soil textures.
Effects of visual terminal feedback on hand dexterity in relation to visuospatial ability in patients with subacute stroke: A preliminary study
Authors: Yabuki Jun , Kaneno Tatsuya , Yamamoto Ryohei , Yamaguchi Kazuto , Nakano Wataru , Akizuki Kazunori
Published: April 2024

Background
Hand dexterity impairments in patients with stroke reduce activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life. Task-specific training with feedback (FB) for stroke rehabilitation have yielded inconsistent results on enhancing motor learning among stroke survivors. Furthermore, visuospatial ability is associated with motor learning, but this has not previously been reported in patients with subacute stroke. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether visual terminal FB affects motor learning of hand dexterity, as well as the relationship among motor function, visuospatial ability, and motor learning, in patients with subacute stroke.
Methods
Seventeen patients (age: 66.1 ± 13.8 years) with subacute stroke who had mild upper limb motor impairment were included in this study. The experimental task was to adjust the force control task. The visuospatial task was the Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (ROCFT). The experimental protocol was conducted on 2 consecutive days, with day 1 consisting of a pre-test (PRE), practice, and short-term retention test (SRT), and day 2 consisting of a long-term retention test (LRT) and the ROCFT. The difference between the target grasping force and the measurement results (grasping error) was assessed as the dependent variable, as a measure of motor learning, using the Friedman test and post hoc test. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was used to evaluate correlations of the grasping error in each test, motor function (by Fugl–Meyer assessment of the upper extremity and action research arm test), and copy, organization, and recall ROCFT scores.
Results
Grasping error significantly decreased in the SRT and LRT compared with the PRE values. Furthermore, no significant correlation was found between motor function and performance on each test, whereas significant moderate negative correlations were found between copy and recall scores and performance on LRT (ρ = -0.51 and − 0.53, respectively).
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that visual terminal FB improved hand dexterity in patients with subacute stroke who had mild upper-limb motor impairment. Visual ability was an important factor associated with motor learning. Future studies should use visual terminal FB and consider the establishment of training programs for visuospatial ability in stroke rehabilitation.
Analysis of factors influencing the distribution of brain metastases from lung cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: Hu Yixin , Lei Weiwei , Xin Enhui , Cheng Tan , Liu Jiang , Tang Yu , Lai Yong , Yu Hong , Tan Yong , Yang Jing , Huang Junhao , Liu Daihong , Zhang Jiuquan
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
The distribution of brain metastases (BMs) in patients with lung cancer may be related to primary tumor and cerebral small vascular diseases (CSVDs), but it is not clear which one or more factors affect the distribution.
PURPOSE
To investigate the effects of primary tumor-related factors and CSVDs on the distribution of BMs (the number of BMs in each brain region) in patients with lung cancer.
METHODS
A total of 5,788 lesions in 823 patients with BMs from lung cancer were enrolled. The numbers of BMs and CSVDs in 15 brain regions were determined. CSVDs included recent small subcortical infarcts (RSSIs), perivascular spaces, and lacunes of presumed vascular origin (LPVOs). We collected the number of CSVDs, primary tumor-related factors (including clinical and imaging features) and other potential influencing factors (including the patient's general condition and treatment). We used univariate and multivariate linear regression models to analyze the influence of the above factors on the number of BMs in 15 brain regions. In addition, we performed subgroup analyses of all patients with adenocarcinoma (AD), male patients with AD, female patients with AD, and patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
RESULTS
Univariate linear regression analyses showed that bone metastasis, adrenal metastasis, RSSIs, and LPVOs greatly affected the number of BMs in over half of the examined brain regions. Multivariate linear regression analyses showed LPVOs independently affected the number of BMs in nine brain regions. In the subgroup analyses of all AD, male AD, female AD, and SCLC, LPVOs independently affected the number of BMs in eight, seven, and nine brain regions, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
The distribution of BMs is mainly affected by LPVOs, while primary tumor-related factors have less influence on the distribution of BMs.
A scaling law approach to rate fabrication tolerances of double-sided electrostatic actuators
Authors: Wall Franziska , Schenk Hermann A. G. , Melnikov Anton , Kaiser Bert
Published: April 2024

Symmetric double-sided electrostatic actuators in push-pull configuration are particularly suitable for linear actuation with low harmonic distortion. However, their motion still is largely determined by pull-in instabilities that are sensitive to geometry variations.
A considerable simulation effort is therefore required when assessing manufacturing tolerances during the design process or determining the optimal operating point.
Recently, an accurate method was demonstrated, allowing for the numerically inexpensive and experimentally non-destructive extraction of the full quasi-static performance of a clamped-free beam-like electrostatic micro-mechanical actuator with complex 3D design.
The key step was to determine the voltage scaling related to the pull-in voltage based on data collected far away from pull-in conditions. This relates a dimensionless ansatz to the physical input voltages as well as the output like e.g. the actuator's tip deflection. For the chosen approach, however, the relationship between the model and the geometry parameters is unknown. In this paper we extend our method to enable quantifying the impact of geometry parameter variations. In particular, we adapt the model equation for the case of symmetry-breaking tolerances on the basis of few FEM-simulations. The quasi-static pull-in instability, as well as the nonlinear deflection, are consistently reproduced over the full range of relevant combinations of signal and bias voltages. Our analysis was developed in the context of a specific electro-acoustic transducer.
However, we find indications that the underlying method is in fact applicable to a much broader range of micro-mechanical actuators.
Marine parasite Protaphelidium rhizoclonii gen. et sp. nov. designates the basal environmental cluster at the aphelid phylogenetic tree
Authors: Seliuk Alexei , Karpov Sergey
Published: April 2024

Aphelids are a poorly known group of algal parasites that have raised considerable interest because of their pivotal phylogenetic position as a sister lineage to the kingdom Fungi. Recent breakthroughs in sampling, sequencing and bioinformatical analyses of environmental nucleic acids have revealed magnificent biodiversity of aphelids. Nevertheless, only 4 genera have been described (Aphelidium, Paraphelidium, Amoeboaphelidium and Pseudaphelidium); 18S rRNA gene sequences are published for all except for the marine genus Pseudaphelidium. Most of the environmental nucleic acid data is from analysis of freshwater samples. We isolated two new marine aphelid strains (X-138 and X-139), and herein describe the life cycle of Protaphelidium rhizoclonii gen. et sp. nov., a parasite of the green alga Rhizoclonium sp., and provide the first 18S rRNA gene sequences for cultivated marine aphelids. The new marine aphelid life cycle is mostly typical for aphelids, but also includes previously undescribed stages. Molecular phylogenetic analysis indicated that Protaphelidium rhizoclonii is a member of an environmental clade at the base of the aphelid tree.
Exploring techno-economic landscapes of abatement options for hard-to-electrify sectors
Authors: Bachorz Clara , Verpoort Philipp , Ueckerdt Falko , Luderer Gunnar
Published: April 2024

Approximately 20% of global CO2 emissions originate from sectors often labeled as hard-to-abate, which are challenging or impossible to electrify directly. Alternative abatement options are necessary for these sectors; however, they encounter critical technological bottlenecks, particularly concerning the availability and cost of low-emission hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, and direct-air capture. Here we conduct a broad techno-economic analysis mapping abatement options and hard-to-electrify sectors while addressing associated technological uncertainties. Our findings reveal a diverse mitigation landscape that can be categorized into three tiers, based on the abatement cost and technologies required. By considering long-term climate neutrality requirements through simple conditions, the mitigation landscape narrows substantially, with a single option dominating within each sector. This outcome justifies targeted political support for sector-specific abatement options, providing a clearer pathway to abate the hard-to-electrify sectors.
The impact of artificial liver support system on intestinal microbiota and serum bile acid profiles in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure
Authors: Zeng Yuyu , Gan Dakai , Zhang Kaige , Long Tao , He Yan , Zhou Rui , Liu Shuanglan , Xiong Molong
Published: April 2024

Object:
To observe the impact of artificial liver support system (ALSS) on the intestinal microbiota and serum bile acid (BA) profiles in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), and to investigate the correlation between intestinal microbiota, serum BA profiles, and clinical outcomes in ACLF patients.
Methods
A prospective study was conducted to include 51 patients diagnosed with ACLF. These patients were stratified into two groups based on the utilization of ALSS during their treatment period: a standard medical treatment group (SMT group) comprising 19 patients and an ALSS combined with SMT group (ALSS group) encompassing 32 patients. Blood and stool samples were collected from the patients on the day of admission and 14 days after treatment. Additionally, 8 healthy controls were recruited, and their stool samples were collected. The intestinal microbiota was sequenced using the 16S rRNA sequencing technique, and the serum BA profiles were determined using the ultra-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Results
ACLF patients exhibited imbalances in intestinal microbiota and abnormalities in BA profiles. Compared to SMT alone, the combined ALSS and SMT is more effective in regulating intestinal microbiota imbalance and increasing the concentrations of ursodeoxycholic acid and glycoursodeoxycholic acid. There is a significant correlation between intestinal microbiota and serum BA profiles, with the presence of Faecalibaculum and Gemmiger, as well as taurochenodeoxycholic acid, being associated with clinical outcomes in ACLF patients.
Conclusions
Our study identified the compositional characteristics of the intestinal microbiota and serum BA in ACLF patients, emphasizing the impact of ALSS on both intestinal microbiota and serum BA profiles.
A Recurrent Feature Iterative Network For Suspect Identification using Convolutional and Long Short Term Memory Approach ⋆
Authors: Shree Manu , Mohapatra Amar Kumar , Suwanwiwat Hemmaphan , Vishwakarma Virendra P. , Lee Ickjai
Published: April 2024

In suspect identification systems, facial features play a crucial role in recognising individuals. However, the challenge lies in sustaining the accuracy of the system over a long period of time, ensuring that it remains consistently high, reliable, and effective. This research introduces a novel lightweight model that requires low trainable parameters, a significantly smaller number than pre-trained models, which use millions of trainable parameters. The newly proposed recurrent feature iterative network integrates a convolutional neural network and long short-term memory in a single structure to synthesise diverse images and to effectively extract facial features. The long short-term memory-based feature-recurrent system demonstrates a significant improvement in accuracy when tested on the augmented reality face database, enhanced extended Yale B, Cohn-Kanade and extended Yale B datasets, achieving encouraging accuracy rates of 99.23%, 99.16%, 98.99%, and 97.68%, respectively. These accuracies, in general, outperform traditional baselines of 68.65%. This research advances the field by providing an innovative solution to enhance suspect identification systems through advanced facial image feature extraction, resulting in significantly improved accuracy rates.
Building a resilient nursing workforce: Reflective learning and mentalization in education
Authors: MORENON Olivier
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the impact of reflective learning on mentalization and resilience enhancement among nursing students, addressing the emotional challenges in nursing. Nursing professionals face significant stress, underlining the importance of resilience skills. Reflective learning techniques used during the initial nursing curriculum, like portfolios, are explored as means to foster resilience by promoting self-awareness, emotional regulation, and engagement with personal experiences. The research follows a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with six first-year nursing students from a University of Applied Sciences in Western Switzerland. The findings highlight themes of vulnerability, defense mechanisms facilitating mentalization, and essential resilience skills such as communication, emotional management, and problem-solving. Reflective writing within learning portfolios emerged as a critical tool for developing resilience by enhancing communicative skills and emotional management. This study underlines the need of integrating reflective approaches into nursing education to provide students with the necessary mental strength and resilience skills to manage professional challenges. It proposes more studies on the enduring impacts of reflective learning on nursing students, to advance our understanding of educational practices that promote resilience.
Engineering M1 macrophages with targeting aptamers for enhanced adoptive immunotherapy by modifying the cell surface
Authors: Yang Qian , Hu Shiyi , Wang Yiqiu , Zhong Luyi , Yu Xiaoli , Zhang Yifeng , Zhang Yiting , Zhang Honghua , Wang Shuling , Tian Qingchang
Published: April 2024

Macrophages play a critical role in the body's defense against cancer by phagocytosing tumor cells, presenting antigens, and activating adaptive T cells. However, macrophages are intrinsically incapable of delivering targeted cancer immunotherapies. Engineered adoptive cell therapy introduces new targeting and antitumor capabilities by modifying macrophages to enhance the innate immune response of cells and improve clinical efficacy. In this study, we developed engineered macrophage cholesterol-AS1411-M1 (CAM1) for cellular immunotherapy. To target macrophages, cholesterol-AS1411 aptamers are anchored to the surface of M1 macrophages to produce CAM1 without genetic modification or cell damage. CAM1 induced significantly higher apoptosis/mortality than unmodified M1 macrophages in murine breast cancer cells. Anchoring AS1411 on the surface of macrophages without modifying their original genes and proteins provides a novel approach to tumor immunotherapy.
An environmental assessment through load capacity factor: The dynamic effects of technological cooperation grants and energy depletion in Pakistan
Authors: Lin Boqiang , Ullah Sami
Published: April 2024

This study aims to fill a crucial gap in current research by examining the multifaceted relationships between energy depletion, technical cooperation grants, industrialization, and environmental degradation. By focusing on Pakistan, a country emblematic of many developing nations facing rapid industrialization and resource constraints, this research offers valuable insights with broad applicability. The significance of this study lies in its innovative approach of utilizing load capacity factor as a novel proxy for environmental sustainability, moving beyond traditional metrics like CO2 emissions and ecological footprints. The study analyzes time series data from 1970 to 2022 using advanced econometric techniques, particularly the dynamic autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model. The findings reveal a nuanced picture of the impact of energy depletion, technical cooperation grants, and industrialization on environmental degradation. Energy depletion and industrialization are found to exert a significant and adverse influence on environmental quality, exacerbating degradation over time. Conversely, technical cooperation grants emerge as a mitigating factor, demonstrating a positive association with environmental sustainability. Moreover, the study conducts a sensitivity analysis by comparing the results obtained using the load capacity factor with those derived from ecological footprints. This comparative analysis offers robust insights into the dynamics of environmental degradation, enriching the understanding of the complex interplay between economic activities and environmental outcomes. Further, policies are discussed for theory and practice.
Effect on the influence of fresh and hardened ultra-high performance geopolymer concrete on usage of industrial wastes for eco-friendly environment
Authors: Natarajan Karthiga Shenbagam , Duraisamy Dhivya
Published: April 2024

This research work was carried out to find the impact of Micro Silica [MS] and Polypropylene Fiber [PF] on Ultra-High Performance Geopolymer Concrete [ U-HPGPC]. Totally 20 samples of concrete mixtures were evaluated to determine the compressive strength, workability, split tensile strength and modulus of elasticity. PF were used at different volume fractions [0%, 7.5%,15%, 25% and 35%] and the results were discussed in detail. From the test results it was concluded that when 15% of MS was used in U-HPGPC the mechanical characteristics reduced gradually, but then improved when the percentage was increased above 15% of MS. Additionally, the use of PF contributes to the increase of mechanical characteristics of U-HPGPC but above 2.75% of PF and 15% of MS there was a decrease in strength of U-HPGPC.