bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden of Care and Experiences with Caregiving to Children Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Nigeria
Authors: Azubuike Albright Obinna , Azubuike Precious Chidozie , Afape Ayobami Oyekunle , Enyam Michael Obule , Akinreni Temidayo , Imo Uchenna Frank , Nwadiche Miracle , Ogbonna Chimankpam Kingsley , Timothy Promise Nmesomachi , Uchegbu Eberechukwu Ruth , Adai George Sefa
Published: August 2024

Background
Managing children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder poses a daunting task for their caregivers. The burden of care takes a toll on the physical, psychological, social, and financial wellbeing of caregivers. This study explored the burden of care among caregivers of children living with autism in Nigeria and informs targeted psychosocial support interventions
Methods
This phenomenology mixed-method study was conducted among 103 sampled caregivers in Cross River, Nigeria. The PREPARE and Zarit Burden Interview tools were used for the data collection. Data were analyzed using the inductive and deductive approaches qualitatively, and SPSS version 25 was used for quantitative analysis.
Results
Almost two-thirds (65%) of the caregivers reported a high caregiver burden. Societal stigma, lack of support systems, and acceptance, and the demanding task of caregiving to autistic children were the major challenges faced by the caregivers. These resulted in significant emotional distress, which is a build-up to a high burden of care.
Conclusion
Given the high burden of care for caregivers, targeted actions must be taken to properly enlighten Nigerian societies on autism spectrum disorder, and the need for acceptance. Key stakeholders must provide autistic healthcare facilities and resources. Also, social support groups would help establish a sense of belonging and support.
The survival prediction analysis and preliminary study of the biological function of YEATS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Long Yao , Wang Wei , Liu Shouping , Wang Xiang , Tao Yongguang
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Our study aims to develop and validate a novel molecular marker for the prognosis and diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
Materials & methods
We retrospectively analyzed mRNA expression profile and clinicopathological data of HCC patients fetched from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Univariate Cox regression analysis was performed to collect differentially expressed mRNA (DEmRNAs) from HCC and non-tumor tissues, and YEATS2, a prognostic marker, was identified by further analysis. ROC curve, survival analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis as well as nomograms were used to evaluate the prognosis of this gene. Finally, the biological function of this gene was preliminarily discussed by using single gene Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), and the YEATS2 knockdown hepatoma cell line was used to verify the results in vitro and in vivo.
Results
Based on the clinical information of HCC in TCGA and GEO databases, the gene YEATS2 with significant differences from HCC was identified. There was a statistical difference in the survival prognosis between the two databases and the ROC curve showed that the survival of HCC in both TCGA and GSE14520 groups had a satisfactory predictive effect. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that YEATS2 was an independent prognostic factor for HCC, and Nomograms, which combined this prognostic feature with significant clinical features, provided an important reference for the clinical prognostic diagnosis of HCC. Next, we constructed a knockdown YEATS2 cell line in LM3 cells, and further proved that knockdown YEATS2 inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCC cells by CCK8, colony formation experiment, and transwell assays. Finally, the biological function of YEATS2 was preliminarily explored through GSEA analysis of a single gene, and it was found that it was significantly correlated with cell cycle and DNA repair, which provided us with ideas for further analysis. Furthermore, the knockdown of YEATS2 promoted radiation-induced DNA damage, enhanced radiosensitivity, and ultimately inhibited the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo.
Conclusions
Our study identified a promising prognostic marker for hepatocellular carcinoma that is useful for clinical decision-making and individualized treatment.
The Impact of Heart Rate Associated Turbulent Wall Shear Stress in Aortic Coarctation: An in silico, Image-based Computational Fluid Dynamics Approach
Authors: Wang Jie , Manchester Emily , Skillen Alex , Ngoepe Malebogo , Keavney Bernard , Revell Alistair
Published: August 2024

This study examines how heart rate affects hemodynamics in a South African infant with Coarctation of the Aorta. Computed tomography angiography (CT) segments aortic coarctation anatomy; Doppler echocardiography derives inlet flow waveforms. Simulations occur at 100, 120, and 160 beats per minute, representing reduced, resting, and elevated heart rate (HR) levels. Turbulence was analysed over time and space using turbulence-resolving and pulsatile large-eddy simulations. The results show that HR significantly affects velocity and pressure drop more than turbulent kinetic energy and wall shear stress, highlighting HR's crucial role in flow dynamics in the coarctation area. Lower HR does not necessarily boost hemodynamic efficiency, as the energy ratio declines from 9.5% to 7.4% with a 60% HR reduction. The balance between turbulent kinetic energy and total kinetic energy shows minimal enhancement due to the complex interplay among HR, turbulence, and geometry. This complexity prompts discussion on how HR-slowing medications, such as beta-blockers or ivabradine, could positively influence hemodynamic stresses. In particular, in the coarctation zone, increased sensitivity to shear stress at lower HR levels suggests nuanced impacts of HR-affecting drugs on hemodynamic stresses, offering new insights new insights for therapeutic management.
Assessment of Rockfall Susceptibility using Random Forest Algorithm and Weighted Overlay Method
Authors: Abdouli Khameis Mohamed Al , Tamang Sonam Dorji , Dorji Kumbu , Norbu Rigzin , Chhetri Anju , Chettri Nimesh
Published: August 2024

Rockfall hazard pose significant threats to lives, infrastructure and environmental stability in Bhutan. Precise prognose and mitigating these hazards remains a challenge due to the complex interactions among multifarious geological factors, weather patterns, and land use practices. The proposed research aims to develop a predictive model using the Random Forest (RF) algorithm and to integrate it with Weighted Overlay Method (WOM) to comprehensively assess rockfall hazard and develop rockfall susceptibility map at Dzongkhags (districts) level. A geodatabase is created by selecting 16 conditioning factors along with historical inventory map which was discretised into 70% for and 30% for validating the trained model. The selected conditioning factors for rockfall are elevation, slope, aspect, curvature, profile curvature, plane curvature, TWI, TPI, TRI, NDVI, LULC, annual average rainfall, lithology, distance to road, distance to river and distance to fault. The RF model thus developed, depicts that most contributing factors for rockfall are lithology, distance to road, distance to river, rainfall and slope. The validation of model is done based on the AUC value from ROC curve which is 0.95 and based on confusion matrix. The rockfall susceptibility map is generated by integrating the feature importance obtained from RF model with WOM in ArcGIS 10.8.
Tuning role of similar hardness nanoparticles enhanced epoxy resin on interface nanostructures tribofilm
Authors: Cui Jiankai , Tian Ying , Li Ruojia , Zhang Jianjun , Zheng Shaomei , Guo Feng , che qinglun
Published: August 2024

In order to meet the challenges for friction and wear of mechanical moving components under harsh lubrication circumstances, the development of polymer-based and self-lubricating composites had received great attention. The tribological performance of several nanoparticles with similar hardness effects (Si3N4, ZrO2, SiC and Al2O3) filled with EP was investigated. The mechanical strength and tribological properties of the prepared composites are greatly improved. More encouragingly, our work had been demonstrated that Al2O3 nanoparticles afforded extraordinarily low friction and wear. A robustness tribofilms consisting of C-materials, nanocrystalline iron oxide and abundant Al2O3 nanoparticles products improved the boundary lubrication capability, suggesting that the tribological behaviors of contrastive various nanoparticles was closely dependency on the tribofilm. This work opens up opportunities formulating high-performance polymer composites for a wide range of applications subjected to harsh lubrication conditions.
Impact of Uterine Adenomyosis on Survival Outcome of Patients with Non-Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Ozgen Levent , Yalcin Yakup , Abay Merve , Ozerkan Kemal
Published: August 2024

Background
The impact of the presence of adenomyosis on survival in patients with non-endometrioid endometrial cancer (EC) remains unclear.The aim of this study is to compare the effect of the presence or absence of histologically proven adenomyosis on the survival of patients with non-endometrioid EC.
Methods
We identified all patients who were consecutively diagnosed with non-endometrioid EC and underwent surgery in a single center between May 1998 and March 2023. Patients with insufficient clinical or surgical data were excluded from the study. A total of 139 non-endometrioid EC patients in the study were divided into two groups as with and without adenomyosis. Demographic characteristics and clinical findings such as age, BMI, menopausal status and pathologic variables such as presence of adenomyosis, tumor grade, depth of myometrial invasion, lymphovascular space involvement, lymph node status, and distant spread were obtained hospital records.Kaplan Meier analysis was performed for survival analysis. Overall (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) were calculated.
Results
A total of 139 patients, 40 (28.7%) in the adenomyosis group and 99 (71.3%) in the non-adenomyosis group, were included in the study and their data were recorded.There was no significant difference between patients with non-endometrioid type EC with and without adenomyosis in terms of patient demographic characteristics and pathological variables (p > 0.05).When the patients in the adenomyosis and non-adenomyosis groups were compared, there was no statistically significance regarding recurrence time (175.2 ± 24.4 months vs 95.1 ± 11.2 months, p = 0.166). However, OS was found to be statistically significantly higher in patients with adenomyosis than in those without adenomyosis (172 ± 24.1 months vs 102 ± 13.9 months; p = 0.02).
Conclusions
The presence of adenomyosis in non-endometrioid type endometrial cancer was not associated with pathological variables such as myometrial invasion, tumor diameter and lympho-vascular space involvement. Although DFS and cancer-related death rates were similar, OS was significantly higher in the presence of adenomyosis.
Growth Performance, Liver and Intestinal Histology, and Immune Response in Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) Juveniles Fed with Diets Supplemented with Niaouli (Melaleuca viridiflora) Essential Oil
Authors: ŞEN Hediye Tuğçe , BİRCAN Yasemin
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the growth performance, liver and intestinal histopathology, and immune response in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) juveniles fed diets supplemented with Niaouli (Melaleuca viridiflora) essential oil. The study was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, a feeding trial was carried out to monitor the effects of the Niaouli essential oil-supplemented diet on fish growth, while in the second phase, the impact on blood parameters and liver-intestinal histopathology was observed in seabream groups fed with the oil-supplemented diet and control groups fed only with pellet feed after administration of a Vibrio anguillarum vaccine. The Niaouli oil was added to the feed at four different levels (0, 1, 1.5, and 3%). The study was replicated three times. Six hundred seabream juveniles, with an initial weight of 11.770 ± 0.006g, were randomly stocked in 12 tanks (50 fish per tank) and fed for 105 days. At the end of the study, feed conversion ratio (FCR), weight gain (WG), and specific growth rate (SGR) were found significantly higher in the group supplemented with 1% Niaouli oil compared to other groups. No pathological changes were observed in the intestinal histology. Similarly, no pathological disorders were detected in the livers of the control groups subjected to feeding and vaccination. However, varying degrees of hepatocyte degeneration from mild to severe were observed in all groups treated with the Niaouli essential oil additive, and the severity of degeneration was determined to be dose dependent. Most liver epithelial cells in the group supplemented with 1% Niaouli oil group appeared close to normal, but some hepatocytes had a granular appearance in their cytoplasm. It was also determined that there was less hydropic degeneration in the group supplemented with 1% Niaouli oil compared to other groups. In the second phase of the study, when vaccinated and unvaccinated groups were compared and assessed in terms of feeding parameters, the vaccine was observed to decrease the feed evaluation rate, increase live weight gain, and enhance the specific growth rate. Hematological values also indicated that the vaccine increased the red blood cell count, stimulated red blood cell production in the bone marrow, and induced erythrocytosis. In conclusion, further research is recommended, involving trials on different fish species with various oil ratios and vaccination timings, to update the literature.
Long-term functional outcome and quality of life after ileal pouch anal anastomosis: retrospective, tertiary-center study, over 19 years
Authors: Dammak Nouha , Baccouch Ala Eddine , Latifa Mehdi Ben , Saide Mohamed Amine , Bhiri Sana , Ammar Houssem , Bouazzi Amal , Lagha Sami , Harrabi Fathia , Mizouni Abdelkader , Mabrouk Mohamed Ben , Ali Ali Ben
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) is a well codified procedure with low morbi-mortality and increasingly satisfactory functional results. We aimed to evaluate long-term quality of life and functional outcome of this procedure.
Methods: Retrospective, descriptive study of IPAA cases carried out over a period of 19 years [2001 – 2019], in the visceral and digestive surgery department of Sahloul Hospital. Anal incontinence was assessed using the St. Mark’s Incontinence Score (SMIS). We evaluated functional outcome using the Öresland Score (OS) and the Pouch Functional Score (PFS), and quality of life (QoL) using Cleveland Global Quality of Life (CGQL).
Results: 125 patients (50,4% females) with a median age at surgery of 40.5 ± 14.9 years. Response rate to the questionnaires was 91,2% (n=114). Only the “J” shaped ileal pouch was made. The global postoperative morbidity was 36%. Most patients had a good functional outcome with a median OS of 5.3±3.6 and a median PFS of 7,3 ±6,1. The average diurnal bowel mouvement is 5 ± 2.1, while 83,3% (n=96) had less than 7 diurnal bowel movements. The average of nocturnal bowel movement is 2.14 ± 1.59 while 70,1% (n=80) had less than 2 nocturnal bowel movements. Most patients had a good QoL with a median CGQL of 18,4 ±4,3.
Conclusion : The IAA with « J » shaped ileal pouch is a procedure ensuring sphincter function compatible with normal life. Future sexual and quality of life studies will need to elicit preoperative baselines.
Trial registration number
Researchregistry9509
Bridging the Gap for Subnational Tailoring: Towards a More Accurate Assessment of Malaria Burden
Authors: Baig Nelofer , Ali Zakir , Ahmed Muhammad , Jamal Wafa Zehra , Rehman Saqib ur , Ahmed Zafar , Rahoojo Riaz Hussain , Jagirani Javed Ali , Usmani Bilal Ahmed , Fatmi Zafar
Published: August 2024

Background: Accurate estimates of malaria burden are crucial for allocating resources and designing effective control strategies. However, global reports often underestimate the burden in low- and middle-income countries due to limitations in surveillance systems. This study addresses this gap by providing a detailed analysis of malaria burden and spatio-temporal distribution in Sindh province, Pakistan.
Methods: We utilized data on monthly suspected malaria cases reported from 1,211 primary healthcare facilities across twenty-three districts (excluding Karachi city) for an 11-year period (2012-2022). Facility weighted and population-weighted estimates calculated to account for variations in population size across districts.
Findings: An incidence of 76 per 1000 population per annum suspected malaria cases were reported at primary public healthcare facilities. Pooled estimates of 1.16 million cases occurred annually. Marked heterogeneity observed in malaria burden across districts and high burden districts were identified. The study revealed a distinct seasonal pattern with peaks coinciding with the wet season and post-monsoon period. Malaria persisted heavily in few districts over the last decade.
Conclusions: These findings highlight the substantial malaria burden in Sindh, particularly in specific high-burden districts. Since 60-70% of population seek healthcare from private providers, the reported figures are gross underestimate. Also, the analysis suggest that sub-national analysis and tailoring of strategies are needed. The underestimation by global reports emphasizes the need for country-level and subnational analyses for informed decision-making. By addressing these gaps and refining burden estimates, Pakistan can develop more targeted strategies towards malaria control.
Bone marrow adipogenic lineage precursors are the major regulator of bone resorption in adult mice
Authors: Qin Ling , Lu Jiawei , He Qi , Wang Huan , Yao Lutian , Duffy Michael , Guo Hanli , Braun Corben , Lin Yuewei , Zhou Yilu , Liang Qiushi , Bandyopadhyay Shovik , Tan Kai , Choi Yongwon , Liu Sherry
Published: August 2024

Bone resorption by osteoclasts is a critical step in bone remodeling, a process important for maintaining bone homeostasis and repairing injured bone. We previously identified a bone marrow mesenchymal subpopulation, marrow adipogenic lineage precursors (MALPs), and showed that its production of RANKL stimulates bone resorption in young mice using Adipoq-Cre. To exclude developmental defects and to investigate the role of MALPs-derived RANKL in adult bone, we generated inducible reporter mice (Adipoq-CreER Tomato) and RANKL deficient mice (Adipoq-CreER RANKLflox/flox, iCKO). Single cell-RNA sequencing data analysis, lineage tracing, and in situ hybridization revealed that Adipoq+ cells contain not only MALPs but also late mesenchymal progenitors capable of osteogenic differentiation. However, RANKLmRNA was only detected in MALPs, but not in osteogenic cells. RANKL deficiency in MALPs induced at 3 months of age rapidly increased trabecular bone mass in long bones as well as vertebrae within 1 month due to diminished bone resorption but had no effect on the cortical bone. Ovariectomy (OVX) induced trabecular bone loss at both sites. RANKL depletion either before OVX or at 6 weeks post OVX protected and restored trabecular bone mass. Furthermore, bone healing after drill-hole injury was delayed in iCKO mice. Together, our findings demonstrate that MALPs play a dominant role in controlling trabecular bone resorption and that RANKL from MALPs is essential for trabecular bone turnover in adult bone homeostasis, postmenopausal bone loss, and injury repair.
Evaluating the Predictors of Endoscopic Balloon Dilation Failure, Success and Surgery Prevention in Crohn's Disease-related Strictures
Authors: Baker Brittany , Iyengar Meera , Rahal Mahmoud , Beran Azizullah , DO Matthew Bohm
Published: August 2024

Background: Long-term outcomes after endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) for managing fibro-stenotic strictures in patients with Crohns disease (CD) are poorly defined in the literature. Aims of this study are to evaluate the efficacy of EBD in delaying surgery for the treatment of CD-related strictures and identify clinical, endoscopic, and stricture-related factors associated with avoidance of surgery after five years of EBD.
Methods: Retrospective cohort study including patients with CD undergoing EBD at a tertiary academic center from 01/2007-12/2021. Demographics, surgical and medication history, disease and stricture characteristics, need for surgical intervention, time to surgical intervention, and need for re-dilation were collected. Outcomes were followed from index dilation up to five years post-dilation.
Results: 422 patients with CD (53.3% female, mean age 45) underwent EBD during the study period (813 total dilations). Location of the stricture was upper gastrointestinal in 24 patients (7%), and ileal (37.3%), colonic (13.2%), ileocolonic (47.8%) in others. 135 participants (32%) required surgery for CD-related stricture during the 5-year follow-up period. 181 patients (42.9%) required re-dilation. Prednisone therapy was a predictor for progression to surgery post-EBD (p=0.002). Patients with De Novo strictures were more likely to undergo surgery compared to those with anastomotic strictures (p=0.004). Eight patients (2%) had complications, with 3 of those requiring surgery.
Conclusion: 68% of patients who underwent EBD avoided surgery. Steroid therapy was predictive of surgical resection within 5 years. Similar to existing literature, anastomotic strictures had better outcomes than De Novo.
Effect of tranexamic acid solution in warm, cold, and room temperature irrigation fluid on complications during and after TURP surgery: a double-blind, randomized clinical trial
Authors: salehi masoomeh , imani behzad , zandi shirdel , haghiabi hamed , souri somayh
Published: August 2024

Background and purpose: Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical technique commonly used for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The most significant complications of this surgery are bleeding intraoperatively and shivering postoperatively. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) solution in warm, cold, and room-temperature irrigation fluid on these complications during and after TURP surgery.
Materials and Methods: This study was a double-blind clinical trial conducted in Iran; 100 candidates for TURP surgery were selected using the Convenience sampling method and based on the intraoperative irrigation method: intervention group A (TXA compound solution in cold irrigation fluid), intervention group B (composition of TXA dissolved in room temperature irrigation fluid), intervention group C (TXA compound solution in cold irrigation fluid) and group control (routine irrigation). Intraoperative bleeding was measured with a photometer, hemoglobin was measured with a blood cell counter (Cell-Dyn3200), and post-operative shivering was measured using the Crossley and Mahajan scale.
Findings: The amount of postoperative bleeding in the TXA solution in the cold irrigation fluid group was significantly lower than in the other groups. Post-operative shivering was significantly lower in the TXA solution group in warm irrigation fluid and the highest in the cold group. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 16.
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the composition of TXA in the cold irrigation solution potentially reduces intraoperative bleeding, but the amount of shivering postoperatively is more significant than in the warm solution and at room temperature.
Minimal linear codes based on weakly regular bent functions over finite fields
Authors: Erleblebici İlksen Acunalp , Sınak Ahmet , Yayla Oğuz
Published: August 2024

Linear codes with few weights hold significant practical value and find application in a wide range of systems.The construction of linear codes from functions has been a thoroughly investigated research domain in existing literature. In this paper, we study the application of cryptographic functions in coding theory, and we derive several few-weight linear codes with good parameters by employing weakly regular bent functions over the finite fields of odd characteristics. Besides, we observe that all constructed codes are minimal codes according to the Ashikhmin-Barg sufficient condition. Lastly, some proposed codes are (almost) optimal due to the Griesmer bound.
MSC Classification: 94A60 , 94B05 , 11T23 , 11T71 , 68R01
Diversity analysis and genome-wide association studies of seed weight trait in Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.) using DArTseq-derived SNP markers
Authors: Muturi Phyllis , Kyallo Martina , Gasura Edmore , Yao Nasser
Published: August 2024

Bambara groundnut is an indigenous legume cultivated in Africa and referred to as ‘poor man’s crop. Seed weight is an important trait that end-users consider in Bambara groundnut because it is associated with better yield. The crop is drought tolerant compared to other legumes. In Kenya, the crop is grown by women and the diversity of the accessions grown is unknown. Lack of information on the crop’s diversity and population structure make selection and genetic improvement of the crop difficult. The objective of this study was to: i. determine the genetic diversity and population structure of 86 Bambara groundnut accessions from western and coastal Kenya using 4,399 SNP markers and ii) identify SNPs associated with the seed weight of the Bambara groundnut collection. The DArT complexity reduction approach in combination with Illumina short-read sequencing (HiSeq 2000) was applied. Population structure analysis revealed three distinct genetic clusters implying that the accessions were from three major gene pools. Analysis of molecular variance showed a low level of differentiation among the populations implying the need to broaden the genetic base of the collection tested in this study. The study revealed 8 significant DArTseq derived SNP markers (P < 0.05) distributed across Bambara groundnut contigs 1, 2, 3, and 5 associated with seed weight. The study demonstrated low genetic variation among the populations but a high genetic variability within population. There will be a need to validate the generated markers and conduct whole genome association studies with other economically important traits in Bambara groundnut.
The development process of hospital beds in Iran during the fourth to sixth national development plans and Its forecast until 2030.
Authors: Sharahi Nahid Chazani- , Hosseini Seyed Mojtaba , Alimohammadzadeh Khalil , Khamseh Alihassan Shaban , Bahadori Mohammadkarim
Published: August 2024

Background
Paying attention to the results of the latest sustainable development report in 2023,The large gap of the sustainable development index in the world compared to the process required to achieve the sustainable development goals for the coming years and the horizon of 2030 is worrying. Therefore,This study was conducted with the aim of The development process of hospital beds in Iran during the fourth to sixth national development plans and its forecast until 2030.
Materials and methods
This descriptive and analytical study was conducted with a retrospective look at the trend of the common indicators of the 3 periods of the development program. The data were obtained from the reports published by the Planning Organization, Ministry of Health, Iran Statistics Center and analyzed by time series method.
Results
The indicators of the number of active beds, the bed occupancy rate, the ratio of beds to 1000 population and the number of hospitals show an increasing trend in the three periods of the development program in Iran.It is expected that by 2030, the number of active beds will reach 181,843, the bed occupancy rate will reach 71.01%, the number of beds per thousand population will reach 2.20%, and the number of hospitals will reach 1201.
Conclusion
Policymakers and senior managers of the health system must decide on how to properly allocate limited resources to the unlimited needs of the people. The efficient use of limited available resources to meet the unlimited needs of the people should be considered by policymakers and managers.
Structural flexibility and shape similarity contribute to exclusive functions of certain ATG8 isoforms in the autophagy process
Authors: Bulgakov Elijah , Rayevsky Alexey , Blume Yaroslav , Karpov Pavel , Stykhylias Mariia , Ozheredov Sergey , Spivak Svetlana
Published: August 2024

One of them relates to the curious interactions between certain ATG8 isoforms and its receptors/adaptors in plants during the autophagy process. These proteins ultimately regulate the initiation, expansion and maturation of the phagophore, which acts as a docking platform for numerous autophagy proteins. The bioinformatician analysis of the human, yeast and plant amino acid sequences allowed us to split them into groups and determine the head-liners taking the experimental data into account. We conducted a structure-based study aimed to identify some hidden reasons for the differences in selectivity of ATG8 isoforms. A series of molecular dynamics simulations were run in attempt to explain the ATG8s’ stage-dependent functionality. The canonic secondary structure organization and folding of all ATG8 proteins and therefore almost identical PPI interface areas make this investigation particularly important and interesting. Aware of the dual role of the ATG8 interacting motif (W/F/Y-X-X-X-L/I/V) in autophagosome biogenesis and the recruitment of an anchored selective autophagy receptor (SAR), we conducted a mobility domain analysis. To this end, sequence of amino acids associated with the LDS interface was localized and underwent an RMSD-based clustering analysis. The resulting ATG8-peptide complexes reflected significant binding preferences of different ATG8 isotypes.
Overview of haematophagous flies involved in the transmission of vector-borne diseases in cattle
Authors: TIBA Aristide , Yeo Nawolo , SORO Ouation Souleymane , OUSSOU Koan Alexi , N’DRI Fréderic Kan , BI Zahouli Faustin ZOUH , Koné Soumaïla , Karamoko Yahaya
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study is to identify the hematophagous flies that contribute to disease transmission in cattle. This work took place in the department of Kounahiri (Côte d'Ivoire), 520 km from the city of Abidjan in December 2022. It took place over 08 days. Tabanidae and Stomoxyinae were caught using Vavoua traps. The insects collected were then placed in a freezer for twenty minutes to kill any insects that were still alive before being stored in a vial containing 70° ethanol. The identification of the different Stomoxyinae species was then developed using the determination keys of Zumpt and the additional morphological character to better separate S. calcitrans and S. niger niger. The Tabanidae were identified using the identification keys published by Oldroyd. The Tabanidae were divided into two genera: three (03) Philipotabanus elviae and thirty-one (31) Tabanus taeniola. On the other hand, among the Stomoxyinae, we identified 18 Stomoxys indicus and 25 Stomoxys calcitrans. The apparent density (AD) was 3.208 flies per day. As for the assessment of specific densities as a function of species composition, Tabanus taeniola had a higher specific density, at 40.26%, with 31 individuals out of a total of 77 flies. In addition, the diversity of haematophagous flies in relation to the biotope gave Margalef’s diversity indices of 0.612 for Stomoxes and 0.652 for Tabanidae. We can conclude from this research that, the inclusion of mechanical vectors in vector control strategies should help to minimise the impact of biting flies on livestock.
Approach for Explainable AI Method Agreement for Disagreement Problem
Authors: Parashar Gaurav , Chaudhary Alka , Pandey Dilkeshawar
Published: August 2024

The disagreement problem arises when multiple explainability (XAI) methods provide different local and global explanations for a machine learning model. This inconsistency can leave practitioners uncertain about which method to trust. This work explores approaches for identifying regions within the dataset where XAI methods are more likely to agree. Our findings indicate that XAI methods tend to agree more in the local areas than if applied to the entire dataset. Increased agreement among XAI methods enhances the transparency and trustworthiness of the model if deployed in the real world. We discuss the concept of explainability, the disagreement problem, and the metrics devised to measure agreement. We then present the results of our experiments and conclude with insights and implications for future research.
Zinc speciation promotes distinct effects on dinoflagellate growth and coral trypsin-like enzyme activity
Authors: Neto Lúcio Lourenço Freitas , Santos Rudã Fernandes Brandão , Silva Maria Angélica , Bezerra Ranilson Souza , Saldanha-Corrêa Flávia , Espósito Breno Pannia
Published: August 2024

Zinc is an essential metal to living organisms, including corals and their symbiotic microalgae (Symbiodiniaceae). Both Zn(II) deprivation and overload are capable of leading to dysfunctional metabolism, coral bleaching, and even organism death. The present work investigated the effects of chemically defined Zn species (free Zn, ZnO nanoparticles, and the complexes Zn-histidinate and Zn-EDTA) over the growth of the dinoflagellates Symbiodinium microadriaticum, Breviolum minutum, and Effrenium voratum, and on the trypsin-like proteolytic activity of the hydrocoral Millepora alcicornis. B. minutum was the most sensitive strain to any form of added Zn. For the other strains, the complex [Zn(His)2] better translated metal load into growth. This complex was the only tested compound that did not interfere with the trypsin-like activity of Millepora alcicornis extracts. Also, histidine was able to recover the activity of the enzyme inhibited by zinc. [Zn(His)2] is a potential biocarrier of zinc for microalgae or coral cultivation. These findings suggest that the control of chemical speciation of an essential metal could lead to useful compounds that assist autotrophy, while not affecting heterotrophy, in the coral holobiont.
Evaluating Potential of Sr-Doped Bioactive Borosilicate Glasses in Improving Bioactivity and Corrosion Resistance of SS-316L Implants
Authors: Logavi Amol , Dua Mansi , Shah Kunjal
Published: August 2024

The pursuit of improved implant materials for biomedical applications has prompted the development of hybrid inorganic-organic sol-gel methods to coat SS-316L implants. This study focuses on enhancing corrosion resistance and bioactivity through the integration of bioactive particles, particularly investigating the versatility of silicate-based bioactive glasses. By manipulating the chemical composition, especially through the incorporation of strontium (Sr), this research aims to control dissolution rates and bioactivity properties. A series of bioactive borosilicate glasses with increasing Sr concentrations were synthesized using a quick alkali sol-gel method. These glasses underwent in vitro testing with simulated body fluid (SBF) to evaluate their bioactive behavior concerning escalating Sr content. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the emergence of hydroxyapatite (HA) alongside a presence of calcite phase (CaCO3) after 7 days. Notably, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showcased the presence of HA and calcite crystals. However, at higher Sr concentrations (Sr = 6, 8 mol %), the formation of calcite was significantly suppressed, potentially due to the larger ionic size of Sr hindering the movement and release of other ions required for calcite formation. Based on these outcomes, the Sr-6 glass was selected for coating SS-316L substrates using a sol-gel dip coating method, successfully achieving a 1µm thick bioactive layer. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) studies confirmed the formation of a bioactive layer on the surface, demonstrating its capability to form HA. Electrochemical tests conducted illustrated the protective behavior of the coating, markedly enhancing the corrosion resistance of SS-316L plates. This research highlights the potential of Sr-doped bioactive glass coatings to not only improve the corrosion resistance of SS-316L implants but also promote bioactivity, offering a promising avenue for advanced implant materials in biomedical applications. The tailored chemical composition of these glasses holds significant promise in fine-tuning properties critical for implant success, presenting avenues for further exploration and development in the field of biomaterials for medical devices.
SCN2A-linked myelination deficits and synaptic plasticity alterations drive auditory processing disorders in ASD
Authors: Kim Jun Hee , Bae Han-Gyu , Wu Wan-Chen , Nip Kaila , Gould Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by complex sensory processing deficits. A key unresolved question is how alterations in neural connectivity and communication translate into the behavioral manifestations seen in ASD. Here, we investigate how oligodendrocyte dysfunction alters myelin plasticity and neuronal activity, leading to auditory processing disorder associated with ASD. We focus on the SCN2A gene, an ASD-risk factor, to understand its role in myelination and neural processing within the auditory nervous system. Through transcriptional profiling, we identified alterations in the expression of myelin-associated genes in Scn2a conditional knockout mice, highlighting the cellular consequences engendered by Scn2a deletion in oligodendrocytes. The results reveal a nuanced interplay between oligodendrocytes and axons, where Scn2a deletion causes alterations in the intricate process of myelination. This disruption instigates changes in axonal properties, presynaptic excitability, and synaptic plasticity at the single cell level. Furthermore, oligodendrocyte-specific Scn2a deletion compromises the integrity of neural circuitry within auditory pathways, leading to auditory hypersensitivity. Our findings reveal a novel pathway linking myelin deficits to synaptic activity and sensory abnormalities in ASD.
Bowel preparation-induced changes in the gut environment facilitate pathogen and pathobiont colonization
Authors: Clayton Charlotte , McCallum Giselle , Ng Katharine , Srini Apsara , Sie Claire , Tertigas Dominique , Porter Imogen , Pepin Deanna , Fardeen Touran , Sinha Sidhartha , Surette Michael , Vallance Bruce , Tropini Carolina
Published: August 2024

Bowel preparation is a common procedure performed millions of times each year to clear the intestinal tract ahead of colonoscopy. During this procedure, a laxative is administered to clear the intestinal contents, which also results in the removal of the mucus layer that normally protects the underlying epithelium. While bowel preparation is generally considered safe in healthy individuals, with the microbiota typically recovering fully, it remains unclear whether pathogenic bacteria can exploit the environmental changes induced by this procedure to cause disease. In this study, we investigated the impact of bowel preparation on the susceptibility of mice to oral infection by the bacterial pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. We found that post-bowel preparation, in the absence of antibiotic treatment, Salmonella robustly colonized, expanded in the gut and translocated to extraintestinal organs, while vehicle-treated mice were protected from infection. Colonization was effective at doses as low as 1,000 CFU and was independent of Salmonella motility, indicating that bowel preparation disrupts intestinal colonization resistance against this common enteric pathogen. We also discovered that pathobionts common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are highly resistant to osmotic perturbation, suggesting they may take advantage of bowel preparation to expand. In a human IBD microbiota mouse model, resident pathobionts translocated to extraintestinal organs post-bowel preparation, whereas this was not seen in mice with a conventional or healthy human microbiota. These results reveal the ability of pathogens and pathobionts to exploit disruptions in the gut environment and further elucidate the importance of the mucus layer and commensal microbiota in preventing enteric pathogen infection.
Hypersonic heat barrier mitigation via structured thermal armor technology
Authors: Wang Ji-Xiang , Li Jia-Xin , Zhong Mingliang , Wang Hongmei
Published: August 2024

Hypersonic aerodynamic heating, also known as the heat barrier, is a dangerous energy form that humans have not yet fully overcome. The heat barrier has caused numerous catastrophic accidents and damage, as well as hindering the development of aerospace engineering. To date, indirect thermal protection methods, such as regenerative cooling, film cooling, and transpiration cooling, have proven to be complex, low in cooling efficiency, and detrimental to a hypersonic vehicle's reusability, maneuverability, and cost-effectiveness (RMC). Inspired by the latest Leidenfrost delay technology, we propose a direct liquid cooling technology to mitigate the effects of the heat barrier. Our proposed aluminum alloy-based structured thermal armor (STA) with a simple liquid cooling system, demonstrates the capability to rapidly mitigate simulated aerodynamic heating-induced extreme temperatures, exceeding 1400°C. This temperature is significantly higher than the melting points of conventional aircraft skin materials, such as aluminum alloys, which typically range from 600 to 700°C. Cycling tests indicate the STA's high durability and tolerance properties. Our research demonstrates that the STA is highly compatible with current hypersonic aerospace systems, promoting aerospace RMC. We also provide scale-up design guidelines for practical hypersonic vehicles' thermal protection. The STA offers a promising solution for hypersonic aerodynamic heating, providing a more efficient, durable, and cost-effective approach to thermal protection. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the aerospace industry, enabling the development of safer and more advanced hypersonic vehicles.
Evolution of Collaborative Networks in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: Analyzing Key Collaborations and Network Characteristics (2000-2023)
Authors: Ogasawara Naruaki
Published: August 2024

Aim
This study aims to analyze the evolution of collaborative networks in gastrointestinal endoscopy research from 2000 to 2023. The focus is on identifying key collaborations and evaluating the centrality of Japanese researchers within the global context.
Method
Data from 23,307 articles related to gastrointestinal endoscopy, published between 2000 and 2023, were extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) database. Network analysis was conducted using Python (version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm (software version 2022.1.3) development environment. The analysis employed macro-level metrics, including network density, clustering coefficient, components, and average distance, as well as micro-level metrics, such as degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality.
Result
The study revealed that the co-authorship network in gastrointestinal endoscopy research has evolved significantly over the past two decades. The network density slightly increased from 0.0003654681 in 2000–2009 to 0.00034 in 2020–2023, while the average clustering coefficient also rose, indicating stronger clustering among researchers. Key researchers, including Hassan, Cesare, and Dinis-Ribeiro, Mario, were identified as central figures in the network, maintaining high degree and closeness centrality throughout the study period. Japanese researchers, such as Fujishiro, Mitsuhiro, and Saito, Yutaka, also played a prominent role in connecting different subgroups within the network, particularly in the later years.
Conclusion
The analysis demonstrates the dynamic nature of collaborative networks in gastrointestinal endoscopy research, with Japanese researchers playing a pivotal role in global collaborations. The findings highlight the importance of these researchers in driving innovation and shaping the future of gastrointestinal endoscopy.
Effect of Indole-3-Acetic Acid, Indole-3-Butyric Acid, and 1-Naphthalene Acetic Acid on The Stem Cutting and Vegetative Growth of Lawsonia Inermis L.
Authors: Uddin Mohammed Sala , Musa Md. Abu Shale
Published: August 2024

Conventional methods for Lawsonia inermis L. propagation face problems like short viability, disease, pests, and unreliable seed propagation due to natural habitat conditions for large-scale production. In-vitro micropropagation also shows drawbacks in mass-scale production due to poor hardening percentage and more time requirements in the context of producing the desired amount of leaf biomass. Therefore, vegetative propagation via stem cuttings to multiply superior, healthy plants is convenient for achieving increased productivity in terms of leaf biomass. Auxins have a significant effect on the rooting and shooting of cuttings. An experiment was carried out at the Botanic Garden, University of Chittagong, in the southeastern region of Bangladesh to determine the effect of IAA, IBA, and NAA on the vegetative growth potential of stem cuttings of L. inermis following the quick dip method and completely randomized design. Results showed significant variability in root and shoot development, which influences the leaf biomass production of L. inermis cuttings. IAA, IBA, and NAA all had significant effects on shoot and root development on cuttings except in control cuttings, where cuttings developed adequate roots without hormone application. It concludes that IBA-treated cuttings could be considered as a higher amount of leaf biomass producing and more effective than IAA and NAA as propagation material for L. inermis, which may play a vital role in the herbal medicine industry as well as in economically developing countries like Bangladesh. It was recommended to investigate how IAA, IBA, and NAA, together with other plant growth regulators, affect L. inermis's capacity for roots and shooting in producing the greatest amount of leaf biomass.
Treatment For Type II Dens Invaginatus in a Mandibular Lateral Incisor: A Report of Rare Case
Authors: Güçlü Erva , Özdemir Olcay , Hazar Bodrumlu Ebru
Published: August 2024

Dens invaginatus is one of the developmental abnormities of the tooth which occurs with an invagination of the enamel organ into the dental papilla during tooth development. This abnormity presents a wide spectrum of morphological variations. According to Oehlers classification, in dens invaginatus type II the invagination invades above the cemento-enamel junction, connecting to the pulp; however, there is no connection with the periodontal ligament. This abnormity presents significant challenge when root canal treatment is necessary. The most frequently affected teeth are permanent maxillary lateral incisors, followed by permanent maxillary central incisors. There are limited case reports of mandibulary central incisors; however, there is no publication of mandibular lateral incisors with dens invaginatus type II. This case report aimed to present cone-beam computed tomography aided diagnosis and treatment for type II dens invaginatus in a mandibular lateral incisor with a talon cusp and a large periapical lesion.