bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microfluidic Microcirculation Mimetic for Exploring Biophysical Mechanisms of Chemotherapy-Induced Metastasis
Authors: Abraham Ashley , Virdi Sukhman , Herrero Nick , Bryant Israel , Nwakama Chisom , Jacob Megha , Khaparde Gargee , Jordan Destiny , McCuddin Mackenzie , McKinley Spencer , Taylor Adam , Peeples Conner , Ekpenyong Andrew
Published: July 2023

There is rapidly emerging evidence from pre-clinical studies, patient samples and patient subpopulations that certain chemotherapeutics inadvertently produce prometastatic effects. Prior to this, we showed that doxorubicin and daunorubicin, stiffen cells before causing cell death, predisposing the cells to clogging and extravasation, the latter being a step in metastasis. Here, we investigate which other anti-cancer drugs might have similar prometastatic effects by altering the biophysical properties of cells. We treat myelogenous (K562) leukemic cancer cells with the drugs nocodazole and hydroxyurea, and then measure their mechanical properties using the microfluidic microcirculation mimetic (MMM) device, which mimics aspects of blood circulation and enables the measurement of cell mechanical properties via transit times through the device. We also quantify the morphological properties of cells to explore biophysical mechanisms underlying the MMM results. Results from MMM measurements show that nocodazole- and hydroxyurea-treated K562 cells exhibit significantly altered transit times. Nocodazole caused significant (p < 0.01) increase in transit times, implying a stiffening of cells. This work shows the feasibility of using the MMM to explore possible biophysical mechanisms that might contribute to chemotherapy-induced metastasis. Our work also suggests cell mechanics as a therapeutic target for much needed antimetastatic strategies in general.
Statistical Analyses of a Class of Random Cyclooctatetraene Chain Networks with Respect to Several Topological Properties
Authors: Tao Chen , Tang Shengjun , Geng Xianya
Published: July 2023

In recent years, there has been a wave of research on complex networks. The purpose of this paper is to study the graph theoretic mathematical properties of random cyclooctatetraene chain. We obtain the explicit analytical expressions for the variances of the Gutman index, Schultz index, multiplicative degree-Kirchhoff index and additive degree-Kirchhoff index of a random cyclooctatetraene chain with $n$ octagons, which plays a crucial role in the research and application of topological indices.
Parafoveal and Perifoveal Accommodation Response to Defocus Changes Induced by a Tunable Lens
Authors: Sharmin Najnin , Papadogiannis Petros , Romashchenko Dmitry , Lundström Linda , Vohnsen Brian
Published: July 2023

The accommodative response of the human eye is predominantly driven by foveal vision but reacts also to off-foveal stimuli. Here, we report on monocular accommodation measurements using parafoveal and perifoveal annular stimuli centered around the fovea and extending up to 8 degree radial eccentricity for young emmetropic and myopic subjects. The stimuli were presented through a sequence of random defocus step changes induced by a pupil-conjugated tunable lens. A Hartmann-Shack wavefront sensor with an infrared beacon was used to measure real-time changes of ocular aberrations up to and including the 4th radial order across a 3 mm pupil at 20 Hz. Our findings show a significant reduction in accommodative response with increased radial eccentricity.
Evaluation of Thermodynamic Parameters for Cu(II) Ions Biosorption on Algae Biomass and Derived Biochars
Authors: Ciobanu Alina Alexandra , Bulgariu Dumitru , Ionescu Ioana Alexandra , Puiu Daria Maria , Vasile Gabriela Geanina , Bulgariu Laura
Published: July 2023

The removal of metal ions by biosorption on inexpensive materials is still a challenge for environmental engineering research. In this study, marine green algae biomass (Ulva lactuca sp.) and the biochars obtained from this biomass, at 320 C (BC-320) and 550 C (BC-550), were used as biosorbents for the removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solution. In addition to comparing the biosorption capacities, the determination of the thermodynamic parameters allows the choice of the most suitable material for the biosorption processes. The experimental results, obtained for Cu(II) ions biosorption on each biosorbent (algae biomass (AB), BC-320 and BC-550), at three different temperatures (10, 30 and 50 C) were analyzed using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models, while pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and intra-particle diffusions models were used to model the kinetic data. The biosorption of Cu(II) ions is best described by the Langmuir model and the pseudo-second kinetic model, regardless of the type of biosorbent. The maximum biosorption capacity (qmax, mg/g) depends on the temperature, but also on the type of biosorbent, and follow the order: BC-320 < AB < BC-550. Using the experimental isotherms, the thermodynamic parameters (G0, H0 and S0) for the biosorption of Cu(II) ions on each biosorbent were calculated. The analysis of the obtained values constitutes the main arguments in choosing BC-550 as the most effective biosorbent for the removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous media.
Regenerative Braking Energy Recovery of a DC Third Rail System: A case study of Malaysia Mass Rapid Transit Line 2
Authors: Chua Xin Rong , Chua Kein Huat , Hau Lee Cheun , Lim Yun Seng , Li Wang , Babrdel Bonab Mohammad
Published: July 2023

Regenerative braking energy (RBE) recovery of trains can improve energy efficiency as well as reduce the overall greenhouse gases emissions of electric rail systems. The train's speed limit, track elevation, track curvature, and headway time can affect the amount of RBE recovered. This study aims to investigate the impacts of these parameters on the RBE recovery for a DC third rail system. A DC third rail system has been modeled using the ETAP-eTraX software based on the Malaysia Mass Rapid Transit Line 2 (MRT Line 2) traction power system. The effects of the change of speed limit, track elevation, track curvature, and headway time of the trains on the RBE recovery have been evaluated under various scenarios. The results showed that the track’s elevation has the most significant influence on the overall energy consumptions of the train while the speed limit has the most significant influence on the amount of RBE recovery.
Exploring the Role of Information Technology in Supporting Sustainability Efforts in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Madkhali Ashwag , Sithole Seedwell T.M.
Published: July 2023

This study explores the role of information technology (IT) in supporting sustainability efforts in Saudi Arabia. Through an analysis of four case studies, we examine how technology has been implemented by Saudi Arabian companies to advance sustainability goals. The findings demonstrate a notable shift towards green initiatives in the country, with the adoption of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and artificial intelligence. These technologies have been instrumental in enhancing energy efficiency and waste reduction. The study highlights the significance of policy interventions and public-private partnerships in achieving both environmental sustainability and economic growth. To ensure widespread adoption of sustainable practices, it is crucial for the government to focus on building digital capacity in companies and removing technological barriers. The case studies of four companies serve as illustrative examples of sustainable practices and the corresponding technological support in Saudi Arabia. The research underscores the importance of leveraging information technology and collaboration to accelerate progress towards the nation's sustainability goals.
Analytical Solution Implemented by an Incremental Procedure for the Ground Reaction Based on Hoek–Brown Failure Criterion in the Tunnel Convergence-Confinement Method
Authors: Lee Yu-Lin , Ma Chi-Huang , Lee Chi-Min
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to apply the convergence-confinement method (CCM) based on the assumption of hydrostatic stress to the surrounding rock excavated in a circular tunnel whose rock mass characteristics meet the requirements of the non-linear Hoek-Brown failure criterion. Based on a consistent and rigorous method of theoretical analysis, a closed-form analytical solution for the stress/displacement of the ground reaction induced by the advancing excavation of the tunnel, especially in the elastic and plastic regions, is derived and investigated under the condition of an isotropic stress state. By taking the value of a confinement loss as an explicit analysis process in an incremental manner, not only is the computationally executable analytical solution achieved, but it can also be performed using a simple spreadsheet. The validity of the analytical solution implemented by the incremental procedure was examined with published data to study the effect of nonlinear failure criteria on the ground reaction curve; in particular the mechanical behavior at the intrados of the tunnel, and the distribution of stress/displacement on the cross-section of the tunnel. A comparison between the published results and the solution proposed in this study, which interprets the closed-form by the incremental procedure, shows consistent and favorable trends.
Interaction of Hoechst 33342 with Lipid Membranes at Different pH Values
Authors: Cordeiro Margarida M. , Filipe Hugo A. L. , Santos Patrícia dos , Samelo Jaime , Ramalho João P. Prates , Loura Luís M. S. , Moreno Maria J.
Published: July 2023

Hoechst 33342 (H33342) is a fluorescent probe that is commonly used to stain DNA of living cells. To do so, it needs to interact with and permeate through cell membranes. The pH of biological media may vary quite significantly and this influences H33342 ionization state, and may change its rate of permeation through biomembranes. In this work, we address the effect of pH in the association of H33342 with lipid bilayers using a combined experimental and computational approach. The partition of H33342 to 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) lipid membranes was experimentally quantified using fluorescence spectroscopy and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) measurements. Quantum chemical calculations were performed to select the most stable isomer of H33342 for the overall charges 0, +1, and +2, expected to predominate across the 5 < pH < 10 range. The interaction of these isomers with POPC bilayers was then studied by both unrestrained and umbrella sampling molecular dynamics simulations. While probe insertion occurs for all ionization states, with similar overall equilibrium location, orientation was found to depend on the probe charge, with the neutral form lying mostly parallel and the doubly charged displaying a significant tilt relative to the membrane plane. Both experimental results and computational free energy profiles indicate that the partition coefficient of H33342 displays a small variation over a wide pH range, not exceeding one order of magnitude. The enthalpy of interaction is negative and is larger at lower pH values. This suggests efficient hydrogen bonding between the probe and the lipid, namely for the protonated +2 form. The relatively high lipophilicity obtained for the charged species contrasts with the decrease in their general hydrophobicity as estimated from water and octanol partition. This highlights the distinction between lipophilicity and hydrophobicity, and the importance of considering association with lipid bilayers when predicting the affinity for biomembranes.
Artisanal Cheeses: A Qualitative Approach towards Brazilian Cheesemakers’ and Consumers’ Concepts and Perceptions about Artisan Foods
Authors: Pereira Larissa Santos , Sant'Anna Voltaire , Cruz Fabiana Thomé , Deggerone Zenicléia Angelita , Bulhões Flávia Muradas , Padilha Rosiele Lappe
Published: July 2023

The concept of artisanal products has been largely discussed mainly due to concerns about the inappropriate use of the term that may cause confusion for the consumers. Cheeses are important food models to evaluate consumers’ and producers’ perception about artisanal foods worldwide. Thus, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the perception of consumers and cheesemakers towards artisan foods, focusing on artisanal cheeses. For this purpose, two focus group were performed either with cheese producers and with consumers to discuss the topic. Colonial and Serrano cheeses, traditional and cultural dairy products in Brazil, were used as food model for the discussion. Producers and consumers related artisan foods to small scale of production, handicraft and freshness. Affective memories were also an important issue related to artisanal cheeses. For cheesemakers, artisan cheeses must be produced with unpasteurized milk, which was not cited by consumers. Consumers disclosed the intention of pay a premium price for food products that present artisan seals on front-package-label, mainly due to the guarantee of acquiring a quality product. The confusion about artisanal and traditional food concepts were observed, which is a subject to be deeply evaluated further. The findings provide useful implications to policy makers and institutions that can influence citizens’ attitudes and consumption patterns of artisanal products.
Addressing Phosphorus Waste in Open Flow Freshwater Fish Farms: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Nathanailides Cosmas , Kolygas Markos , Tsoumani Maria , Gouva Evangelia , Mavraganis Theodoros , Karayanni Hera
Published: July 2023

Legislation and interest to protect and restore freshwater and marine ecosystems from aquaculture's environmental impact is global. However, aquaculture induced eutrophication continues to be a major environmental issue. Open freshwater fish farms in particular, providing fish with phosphorus-rich feeds pollute aquatic ecosystems since water soluble phosphorus, uneaten feed, feces, and metabolic waste from farmed fish increase phosphorus concentration in the adjacent waters. Several intestinal enzymes, transporters, and regulating factors are implicated in dietary phosphorus retention of farmed fish. For example, alkaline phosphatase and other transporters help the anterior intestine absorb phosphorus, while pH, calcium, and vitamin D affect these enzymes and transporters.. Intestinal morphology and gut microbiome may also affect this process. Reducing phosphorus pollution from open-flow fish farms requires a thorough understanding of processes that affectnutrient retention and absorption as well as of the impact of dietary factors, anti-nutritional substances, and intestinal morphology. Optimizing feed composition, adding functional feed ingredients, and managing gut health can reduce phosphorus release and improve aquaculture sustainability. Processing and functional feed additives can mitigate anti-nutritional factors and, addressing these issues will reduce aquaculture's environmental impact, ensuring aquatic ecosystem health and global food security.
A Mixed Methods Study to Implement the Synergy Tool and Evaluate its Impact on Long-Term Care Residents
Authors: Havaei Farinaz , Kobekyaa Francis , Ma Andy , MacPhee Maura , Zhang Wei , Kaulius Megan , Ahmadi Bahar , Boamah Sheila , Easterbrook Adam , Salmon Amy
Published: July 2023

Background: There are ongoing workforce challenges with the delivery of long-term care (LTC), such as staffing decisions based on arbitrary standards. The Synergy tool, a resident-centered approach to staffing, pro-vides objective, real-time acuity and dependency scores (Synergy scores) for residents. The purpose of this study was to implement and evaluate the impact of the Synergy tool on LTC delivery. Methods: A longitudinal mixed methods study took place within two publicly-funded LTC homes in British Columbia, Canada. Quantitative data included weekly Synergy scores for residents (24 weeks), monthly aggregated resident falls data (18 months) and a six-month economic evaluation. Qualitative data were gathered from family caregivers and thematically analyzed. Results: Quantitative findings from Synergy scores revealed considerable variability for resident acuity/dependency needs within and across units; and falls decreased during implementation. The six-month economic evaluation demonstrated some cost savings by comparing Synergy tool training and implementation costs with savings from resident fall rates reductions. Qualitative analyses yielded three positive impacts themes (improved care delivery, better communication, and improved resident-family-staff relationships), and two negative structural themes (language barrier and staff shortages). Conclusions: The Synergy tool provides useful data for enhancing a ‘fit’ between resident needs and available staff.
Estimation of Reference Evapotranspiration in a Semi-Arid Region of Mexico
Authors: Delgado-Ramírez Gerardo , Bolaños-González Martín Alejandro , Quevedo-Nolasco Abel , López-Pérez Adolfo , Estrada-Ávalos Juan
Published: July 2023

Reference evapotranspiration (ET0) is the first step in calculating crop irrigation demand, and numerous methods have been proposed to estimate this parameter. FAO-56 Penman-Monteith (PM) is the only standard method for defining and calculating ET0. However, it requires radiation, air temperature, atmospheric humidity, and wind speed data, limiting its application in regions where these data are unavailable; therefore, new alternatives are required. This study compared the accuracy of ET0 calculated with the Blaney-Criddle (BC) and Hargreaves-Samani (HS) methods versus PM using information from an automated weather station (AWS) and the NASA-POWER platform (NP) for different periods of time. The information collected corresponding at Module XII of the Lagunera Region Irrigation District 017, a semi-arid region in the North of Mexico. The HS method underestimated by 5.5 % the reference evapotranspiration (ET0) compared to the PM method during the period from March to August, and yielded the best fit in the different evaluation periods: daily, average, and 5-day cumulative; the latter showed the best values of inferential parameters. The information about maximum and minimum temperatures from the NP platform was suitable for estimating ET0 using the HS equation. This data source is a timely alternative, particularly in semi-arid regions where no data from weather stations are available.
Atmospheric and ionospheric effects of La Palma volcano 2021 eruption
Authors: Zhang Hanshuo , Zhu Kaiguang , Cheng Yuqi , Marchetti Dedalo , Chen Wenqi , Fan Mengxuan , Wang Siyu , Wang Ting , Zhang Donghua , Zhang Yiqun
Published: July 2023

On 19 September 2021, La Palma volcano (Canarias Archipelagos) started an eruption that persisted until 13 December 2021. Despite the Volcano Explosive Index (VEI) being estimated equal to 3, corresponding to not so powerful eruption, the long eruption activity posed much scientific in-terest in this natural hazard event. In this paper, we searched for possible effects of this eruption on the atmosphere and ionosphere, investigating the climatological archive and Swarm magnetic satellite data. In particular, we explored Aerosol, Sulphur Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide con-centrations in the atmosphere identifying both the direct emissions from the volcano as well as the plume that drifted toward West-South-West and was reinforced during the eruption period. The vertical profile of temperature from the Saber satellite was analysed to search for the possible presence of acoustic gravity waves induced by volcanic activity. Compared with the year before without eruption in the areas, a lot of Saber profiles present an Energy Potential very much higher than the previous year, proposing the presence of Acoustic Gravity Waves (AGW) induced by volcano eruption activity. We also identified Swarm magnetic disturbances on the day of the eruption and in November. The mechanism of coupling could be different for the latter one, as there is no evidence for AGW. They may be due to a more complex of physical and chemical al-terations that propagate from the lower atmosphere to the upper one into the ionosphere.
Pemodelan Produk Domestik Regional Bruto Sektor Pertanian dan Penyaluran Kredit menggunakan Two Stage Least Square
Authors: Saputri Prilyandari Dina , Oktaviana Pratnya Paramitha
Published: July 2023

Green economy is a concept relating to economic development which aimed to improve people's welfare by paying attention to environmental conditions. One main pillar of a green economy is economic growth which can be calculated through GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Financial institutions can play an important role in raising economic growth through optimal credit allocation. The causal relationship that influences each other between credit allocation and Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in the agricultural, hunting, forestry, and fisheries sectors can be analyzed using the simultaneous two stage least square equation. The variables that significantly affect credit allocation are the percentage of NPL and GRDP, while the variables that significantly affect GRDP are the area of agricultural land and credit allocation. A significant causal relationship between credit distribution and GRDP shows that financial institutions can play a role in raising the growth of the green sector economy through credit allocation, especially in the green sector.

 

Ekonomi hijau merupakan gagasan mengenai pengembangan perekonomian yang bertujuan meningkatkan kesejahteraan masyarakat dengan memperhatikan kondisi lingkungan. Salah satu pilar utama dalam ekonomi hijau adalah pertumbuhan ekonomi yang dapat dihitung melalui PDB (Produk Domestik Bruto). Lembaga keuangan dapat memegang peranan penting dalam peningkatan pertumbuhan ekonomi melalui penyaluran kredit yang optimal. Hubungan kausalitas yang saling mempengaruhi antara penyaluran kredit dengan PDRB sektor pertanian, perburuan, kehutanan, dan perikanan dapat dianalisis menggunakan persamaan simultan two stage least square. Variabel yang mempengaruhi penyaluran kredit secara signifikan adalah variabel persentase NPL dan PDRB, sedangkan variabel yang mempengaruhi PDRB secara signifikan adalah luas lahan pertanian dan penyaluran kredit. Hubungan kausalitas yang signifikan antara penyaluran kredit dengan PDRB menunjukkan bahwa lembaga keuangan dapat berperan dalam meningkatkan perkembangan perekonomian sektor hijau melalui penyaluran kredit, khususnya pada sektor hijau.
Analisis Faktor-Faktor yang Menjelaskan Kasus AIDS Provinsi Jawa Timur Menggunakan Model Geographically Weighted Logistic Regression (GWLR)
Authors: Natasha Latifatu Soliha  , Dian Lestari  , Yekti Widyaningsih
Published: July 2023

AIDS is the most chronic phase of HIV infection which can weaken the immune system. In 2020, East Java Province is a province which has the most HIV infections and in the third place for the highest total number of AIDS cases in Indonesia. The purpose of this research is to build a model using Geographically Weighted Logistic Regression (GWLR), and to work out the grouping results of regencies/cities using K-means Clustering Analysis. The variables used in this research are Gini Ratio, L Index of Per Capita Expenditure, Gender Ratio, Dependency Ratio, Gender Development Index, and The Number of Pos Pelayanan KB Desa. The proportion levels of AIDS cases are categorized into 2 categories based on cut-point which has been specified, which 0 as the category of low level with the proportion of AIDS cases is less than 0.0006 and 1 as the category of high level with the proportion of AIDS cases is more than or equal to 0.0006. Parameter estimation for GWLR is using Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) method with Fixed Gaussian as weighted kernel function and optimum bandwidth is determined using Akaike's Information Criterion Corrected (AICc). Z-Score of the most suitable model will be grouped using K-means Clustering Analysis, with Z-score is parameter estimator divided by standard error. Grouping results indicates cluster 1 members tend to be regencies/cities that have gender ratio and dependency ratio as significant variables, meanwhile cluster 2 members tend to be regencies/cities that have only dependency ratio as significant variable.
Load and resistance factors from reliability analysis Probability of Unsatisfactory Performance (PUP) of flood mitigation, batter pile-founded T-Walls given a target reliability index (𝛽)
Authors: Ebeling Robert , White Barry , Hite John , Tallent James , Williams Locke , McCoy Brad , Hill Aaron , Dell Cameron , Bruhl Jake , McMullen Kevin
Published: July 2023

This technical report documents the research and development (R&D) study in support of the development of a combined Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) methodology that accommodates both geotechnical and structural design limit states for design of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) batter pile-founded, reinforced concrete flood walls. Development of the required reliability and corresponding LRFD procedures has been progressing slowly in the geotechnical topic area as compared to those for structural limit state considerations, and therefore this has been the focus of this first-phase R&D effort. This R&D effort extends reliability procedures developed for other non-USACE structural systems, primarily bridges and buildings, for use in the design of batter pile-founded USACE flood walls. Because the foundation system includes batter piles under flood loading, the design procedure involves frame analysis with significant soil structure interaction. Three example batter pile-founded T-Wall flood structures on three different rivers have been examined considering 10 geotechnical and structural limit states. Numerical procedures have been extended to develop precise multiple limit state Reliability calculations and for complete LRFD analysis of the example batter pile-founded, T-Wall reinforced concrete, flood walls.
International Comparison and Insights on Sustainable Competitiveness of Water Industry Management Models: Evidences from France and China
Authors: Zhang Wenjing , Deng Bangwu , Yang Xue , TIAN Kang
Published: July 2023

The sustainability of the water industry management model is one of the essential means to achieve sustainable utilization of water resources. Based on existing research on the sustainability of water industry, this study explores the factors affecting the sustainable competitiveness of water industry management model and constructs a more complete sustainable competitiveness evaluation indicator system. Evidences taken from France and China were selected as the references for the study, and the principal component analysis was used to evaluate the overall sustainable competitiveness and main component dimensions. It is found through this study that the overall competitiveness indicator in sustainable water industry management model, and the sub-dimensional competitiveness indicators in resource support, development base, and environmental impact of the water industry of France are better than that of China. While China shows more competitive in social inclusion, technological innovation, and sustainability of the water industry. Based on the research results, this study provides the insights to solve the existing issues in the sustainable development of China's water industry to support how China can adjust its water industry management model to improve its sustainable competitiveness.
Identification of memory B cell-associated miRNA signature to establish a prognostic model in gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Ruquan , Huang Biaojie , Shao Yongzhao , Cai Yongming , Liu Xi , Ren Zhonglu
Published: July 2023

Background
Memory B cells and microRNA (miRNA) play important roles in the progression of gastric adenocarcinoma (STAD). However, there are few studies on utility of memory B cell-associated miRNAs for prognosis of STAD.
Methods
We identified the marker genes of memory B cells by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and identified the miRNAs associated with memory B cells by constructing an mRNA-miRNA co-expression network. Then, univariate Cox, random survival forest (RSF), and stepwise multiple Cox regression (StepCox) algorithms were used to identify memory B cell-associated miRNAs that were significantly related to overall survival (OS). A prognostic risk model was constructed and validated using these miRNAs, and patients were divided into a low-risk group and a high-risk group. In addition, the differences in clinicopathological features, tumour microenvironment, immune blocking therapy, and sensitivity of anticancer drugs in the two high versus low risk groups were analyzed.
Results
Four memory B cell-associated miRNAs (hsa-mir-145, hsa-mir-125b-2, hsa-mir-100, hsa-mir-221) with significantly correlation to OS were identified and used to construct a prognostic model. Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed the feasibility of the model. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival curve analysis showed that the prognosis was poor in the high-risk group. The comprehensive analysis showed that the patients in the high-risk group have higher immune scores, matrix scores, immune cell infiltration, and poor effect of immune response. In addition, in terms of drug screening, we predicted eight drugs with higher sensitivity in the high-risk group, of which CGP-60474 was the most sensitive.
Conclusions
In summary, we identified memory B cell-associated miRNAs prognostic features and constructed a novel risk model for STAD based on scRNA-seq data and bulk RNA-seq data. Patients in the high-risk group showed the highest sensitivity to GCP-60474. This study provides prognostic insights for individualized and accurate treatment of STAD patients.
Cryospheric melting enhances methane emissions from inland waters on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Gao Tanguang , Zhang Yulan , Wei Da , Zhao Yanlong , Liu Zhiyin , Sillanpää Mika
Published: July 2023

Inland waters over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) are significant sources of atmospheric methane (CH4), which plays a critical role in the regional carbon cycle. Rapid climate warming on the TP has caused siginficant cryosphere retreating during the past decades, mainly including the glacier melting and permafrost thawing. They are changing inland water status, as evidenced by the increasing river runoff, enpanding lake areas, emerging glacier lakes and permafrost thermokarst lakes. These substantial changes have resulted in enhanced CH4 emissions. The estimated CH4 emissions from inland waters on the TP vary from 1.8–3.4 Tg CH4 yr-1. However, there remains a lack of sufficient CH4 data from glacier lakes, permafrost thermokarst lakes, and river headwaters on the TP, which urgently needs to be systematically measured. Morewover, we highlight the possible impact of on gong warming-induced cryospheric melting on CH4 emissions from inland waters over the TP.
Ovarian stimulation Altered Uterine Fluid Extracellular Vesicles miRNA Affecting Implantation in Rats
Authors: Huang Xi , Zhao Jing , Zhang Qiong , Wang Yonggang , Li Yanping
Published: July 2023

Purpose: Uterine fluid (UF) extracellular vesicle (EV) miRNA may affect implantation and could be the potential biomarker of endometrial receptivity (ER). Ovarian stimulation (OS) could damage the ER but its mechanism is still unclear. Here, we evaluate the affections of OS on UF EV miRNA expression and implantation.
Methods: Female rats were divided into three groups: natural cycle or injection with GnRH-a following HP-HMG or u-FSH and collected UF on the 5th day of gestation. The affinity membrane column was used to isolate EVs from UF, which was collected by flushing during implantation. EVs miRNAs were sequenced, and five among them were verified by qRT–PCR.
Results: In OS groups, the implantation rate decreased (p<0.05), and the pinopode was damaged in the OS groups. The EVs were isolated from UF, and the differential expression key miRNAs were involved in several regulation pathways, such as cancer, endocrine, and cell cycles, which were correlated with ER and implantation. Among the miRNAs, miR-223-5p greatly differed and was most consistent with the sequencing results, followed by miR-223-3p and miR-98-5P.
Conclusion: OS altered UF EVs miRNAs affecting implantation in rats, and miR-223 might be the key molecule. Our results enriched EV data in the fertility research field and broadened our knowledge of OS and implantation.
Remote sensing assessment of multi-year drought vulnerability of agriculture in Kangavar, Kermanshah Province, west of Iran
Authors: Buzhani Farzaneh Imani , Sadr Maryam Kiani , Sobhanardakani Soheil , Lorestani Bahareh , Cheraghi Mehrdad
Published: July 2023

The current study investigated the spatiotemporal distribution and detection of drought severity using ground indices in R-Studio software and applying indices on the images of Landsat 8 and Sentinel 2 satellites in the growing season and annually. The outcomes showed that typical months had the largest range in terrestrial indices results, and the NDVI index had the greatest compatibility with SPEI. By comparing these two times, during the growing season, plant health was evident in the northwest and in annual images in the northeast. Moreover, a negative correlation was found between LST and NDVI in elevation, which was more moderate at northern heights. High mean annual temperatures during growing seasons were common in the east and south. The eastern side of the study area had high annual vegetation density, but soil moisture was higher in the southwest. Floods negatively affected plant health; with the 2019 flood, the canola yield was very low. In summary, Sentinel 2 images showed drought better in the growing season and Landsat 8 images showed drought better in the dry season or at the end of plant growth.
Processing Parameters Impact on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of ASTM A36 Steel Laser Welding
Authors: Fissmer Elton Eduardo , Dreveck Natália Wendt , Filho Osmar Custódio de Moura , Ferraresi Henrique Nardon , Rabelo Alexsandro
Published: July 2023

In recent years there have been advances in the development of processes for obtaining and building steel and metal alloys. These developments require an increasingly deeper and more detailed understanding of the phenomena that involve phase transformations, arising from the processing of obtaining, forming, welding and application of these materials. At the same time, the evolution of laser welding technologies is making these processes increasingly attractive for industrial applications. In this context, this work proposes to study the effect of different combinations of parameters on the visual, mechanical and microstructural characteristics of the laser welding beads. To evaluate the influence of process parameters, 8 combinations of speed and power were used, keeping the heat input constant, in the welding of ASTM A36 steel. The study aims to compare the influence of the variation of these parameters in the weld region and its relationship with the mechanical properties, considering that, despite the constant heat input, there is still a variation in the power density and the interaction time. The results indicate that the material used has a wide processing window, since the tensile tests, microhardness and metallographic analyzes showed similar results in the range of evaluated parameters. Samples welded with powers between 2 kW and 8 kW showed good mechanical performance, but an increase in process instability was observed, with an increase in power density and a reduction in the interaction time.
First true mastodon from the Late Miocene of Western Asia
Authors: Yaghoubi Sadaf , Ashouri Ali Reza , Ataabadi Majid Mirzaie , Ghaderi Abbas
Published: July 2023

A mammutid is described here for the first time from the Late Miocene (MN12 equivalent) deposits of Abkhareh village, Varzeghan region in the northwestern part of Iran. It is identified as “Mammut” cf.obliquelophusand is represented by an isolated and moderately worn upper third molar with zygodont crown pattern as typical of mammutids. In addition, two upper incisors found associated with the molar and probably belonging to the same individual are assigned asMammut. The studied material expands the geographic distribution of“Mammut” obliquelophusinto western Asia.
Effects of Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback on Indicators of Self-Regulation and Performance in Brazilian Police Officers
Authors: Pinc Tânia
Published: July 2023

This article examines the effects of a heart rate variability biofeedback protocol on self-regulation and performance indicators in Brazilian police officers. The biofeedback protocol lasted for five days and was combined with operational training Participants were preselected and divided into two groups: control group (26 officers) and treatment group (26 officers). The study assessed all participants before and after the intervention, measuring their self-regulation (maximum heart rate) and performance (procedures and response time) in a controlled environment that simulated an armed reaction situation. Significant effects were observed in the treatment group, aligning with the hypothesized direction. There was a decrease in maximum heart rate, indicating self-regulation, as well as a reduction in procedural failures and response time, indicating enhanced performance. The findings suggest that exclusive reliance on police training may be insufficient for enhancing performance. Instead, the ability to promote self-regulation through heart rate variability biofeedback emerges as a crucial factor. The purpose of the research was to gather evidence for public policy implementation in the city of Barueri, state of São Paulo, Brazil.
Perceived health inequalities: Are the UK and US public aware of occupation-related health inequality, and do they wish to see it reduced?
Authors: Bridger Emma K , Tufte-Hewett Angela , Comerford David
Published: July 2023

Background. One underexamined factor in the study of lay views of socioeconomic health inequalities is occupation-related health. Examining health by occupational social class has a long history in the UK but has been comparatively overlooked in US public health literatures. Methods. Representative samples of the UK and US indicated the perceived and ideal lifespan of people working in “higher managerial/professional” and “routine” occupations. We examine perceptions of inequality and desires for equality across occupation groups as a function of country and key socio-demographic variables. Results. 67.8% of UK and 53.7% of US participants identified that professionals live longer than routine workers. Multivariate models indicated that US participants were markedly less likely to be aware of occupation-related inequalities after controlling for age, gender, and education. Awareness was negatively related to age (in the US) and recent voting behaviours (both samples). Desiring equal life expectancy was less likely in the US sample, and less likely across both samples for older participants and those with lower levels of education. Conclusion. There is widespread understanding of the occupation-related gradient in lifespan and a desire that these inequalities be eliminated in the UK, but considerably less awareness and desire for equality in the US.
Deciphering a hydrogen sulfide-related signature to supervise prognosis and therapeutic response in colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Jinbiao , Zhang Yingchun
Published: July 2023

Background: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a critical molecule that participates in various molecular, physiological, and pathophysiological processes in biological systems. Emerging evidence has revealed that H2S is implicated in the progression of colon cancer and immune escape. Against this backdrop, the present study aimed to construct a prognostic risk feature for colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) by leveraging H2S-related genes (HSRG).
Methods: Transcriptomic data and corresponding clinical-pathological information of colon cancer were obtained from TCGA and GEO databases. Univariate Cox regression analysis was employed to assess the prognostic relevance of HSRG. Consensus clustering was utilized to perform molecular subtyping of COAD, followed by comparison of immune cell infiltration, drug sensitivity, and immune therapy response between subtypes. Differential expression gene and gene set enrichment analyses were conducted between subtypes. Univariate, lasso, and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to construct a prognostic model derived from HSRG. A nomogram model for predicting COAD prognosis was constructed and evaluated.
Results: In this study, we identified 12 HSRGs that were associated with COAD prognosis. Consensus clustering analysis revealed 3 COAD molecular subtypes that exhibited significant differences in terms of prognosis, tumor immune cell infiltration, drug sensitivity, and immune therapy response. Gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated that immunoregulatory processes were significantly suppressed in the poor-prognosis subtype while Wnt-related pathways and processes were significantly upregulated. Based on the differentially expressed genes between subtypes, we constructed a risk model comprising 11 genes that effectively distinguished high-risk patients from low-risk patients with significant associations with patient survival outcomes, drug treatment, pathological staging, and T staging. The HSRG-derived risk feature was an independent prognostic factor for COAD in drug treatment and pathological staging and could be integrated into a nomogram for prognosis prediction. Calibration curve, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), and decision curve analysis demonstrated excellent performance of the nomogram in evaluating COAD prognosis.
Conclusion: Our study systematically assessed the prognostic significance of HSRG in COAD, identified HSRG-based molecular subtypes and risk features, and highlighted their potential utility in predicting prognosis and treatment response.
Encapsulated Docetaxel in Synthesized PCL-PEG-PCL Nano-Carriers as a Strategy for Controlled Drug Delivery in Breast Cancer
Authors: Khojastehfar Ali , Zabihi Ebrahim , Mostafazadeh Amrollah , Janbabaei Ghasem , Hakemi Pejman , Nataj Hadi , Mahjoub Soleiman
Published: July 2023

Background
Nano-drug delivery systems are rapidly evolving in the treatment of cancer due to reduced side effects and improved therapeutic properties of drugs through the drugs’ slow release and as a result, enhancing permeability and retention of drugs.
Methods and Results
Encapsulated docetaxel in PCL-PEG-PCL nano-carrier (P1) was prepared by the “modified nano-precipitation” method. TEM, AFM, and DLS were used for character evaluation. HPLC and dialysis bags were also used to evaluate the amount of drug release and drug encapsulation. The MCF-7, MDA-MB231, and fibroblast cell lines were treated with different concentrations of the synthesized nano-carriers loaded DTX and free DTX over 48 and 72 hours. The MTT assay was used for investigating cytotoxic effects. The Annexin-V/PI staining and Hoechst-33342 staining were performed for apoptosis assay. The characterization techniques showed the designed nano-carrier has suitable properties for carrying drugs. The percentages of encapsulation, drug loading, and drug releasing were obtained by the HPLC technique. The MTT-assay results showed that inhibition of MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cell growth and proliferation by P1 during 72 hours is significantly higher than 48 hours. The apoptosis assays showed the cytotoxic effects of synthesized nano-carriers that cause apoptosis cell death.
Conclusion
The results showed that DTX is effectively encapsulated by PCL-PEG-PCL nano-carriers, which can increase the solubility and bioavailability of the drug by high penetration into the cell. The nano-carrier P1 significantly caused early apoptosis of MCF-7, and MDA-MB231 cells. Accordingly, the IC50 of P1 on MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cells in 72 hours was reported higher than at 48 hours. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that controlled drug release from the designed nano-carriers has been achieved and induction of apoptotic cell death has occurred.
Establishment of Novel Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines with Epithelial and Mesenchymal Morphology from a Dog
Authors: Kobayashi Kosuke , Takemura Reika Deja , Miyamae Jiro , Mitsui Ikki , Murakami Kohei , Kutara Kenji , Saeki Kohei , Kanda Teppei , Okamura Yasuhiko , Sugiyama Akihiko
Published: July 2023

Canine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (PAC) resembles human lung tumors in never-smokers, but it is rarer than human pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Therefore, research on canine PAC is challenging. In the present study, we successfully established various novel canine PAC cell lines from a single lesion in a dog, including two parent cell lines and fourteen cloned cell lines, and characterized their cellular propertiesin vitro. Several of these cell lines showed epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like and/or cancer stem cell (CSCs)-like phenotypes. We additionally assessed the sensitivity of the cells to vinorelbinein vitro. Three clonal lines, two of which showed EMT- and CSC-like phenotypes, were resistant to vinorelbine. These novel canine PAC cell lines can be utilized in future research for understanding the pathogenesis and development of treatments for canine PAC.
Analysis of Minimal Levator Ani Hiatus Area Based on MRI in Women without Pelvic Floor Dysfunction at Different Age Groups
Authors: He Xiaoyi , Du Qian , Chang Lingyu , Jiang Yan , Dou Weiqiang , Yu Dexin , Wang Qing , Guo Yiting , Wang Fang
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To investigate the association of minimal levator ani hiatus area with age in women without pelvic floor dysfunction.
Methods: 552 female subjects aged one year ~90 years without pelvic floor dysfunction, divided into four groups (Group A, ≤29 years old; Group B, 30~39 years old; Group C, 40~49 years old; Group D, ≥50 years old) based on age, underwent traditional pelvic two dimension (2D) T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) axial to the body (AxB) for measuring the minimal levator ani hiatus area. 39 female volunteers were re-recruited to undergo both traditional pelvic 2D T2WI AxB and three dimension (3D) T2WI. An axial plane parallel to the direction of the puborectalis muscle (AxPRM) was acquired based on 3D T2WI. The difference of levator ani hiatus area measured on AxB and AxPRM images in 39 female volunteers was compared by one-sample t-test, to verify if minimal levator ani hiatus area can be acquired on traditional pelvic 2D T2WI AxB images. Spearman analysis evaluated the association of minimal levator ani hiatus area with age and the rank-sum test analyzed the area differences among four age groups.
Results: Female age was positively correlated with minimal levator ani hiatus area (r = 0.29; p < 0.001). The minimal levator ani hiatus areas of 552 subjects were: 13.74±3.48 cm2 in Group A, 15.52±2.21 cm2 in Group B, 16.03±2.16 cm2 in Group C and 16.40±2.10 cm2 in Group D. ANOVA showed significant statistical differences among four age groups (F=23.99, p＜0.0001). Significant differences in minimal levator ani hiatus areas were found between Group A and Group B (p = 0.0012), Group A and Group C (p < 0.0001), Group A and Group D (p < 0.0001), and Group B and Group D (p < 0.0001). There was no statistical difference in minimal levator ani hiatus areas measured on AxB and AxPRM images in 39 female volunteers (p = 0.1000).
Conclusions: Based on a large sample, this study summarized the minimum levator ani hiatus area of women without pelvic floor dysfunction in different age groups. We found significant differences among different age groups. In addition, a positive correlation was found between age and the minimum levator ani hiatus area. These findings can provide reference criteria for diagnosing pelvic organ prolapse in women of different age groups.