bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women’s Perceptions Of Glass Ceiling In The Accounting Profession In Indonesia
Authors: Khodijah Amalia Siti , Pekerti Retno Dyah , Rahmayanti Anggraeni Anisa Wara
Published: January 2024

This research aims to investigates the women’s perceptions of glass ceiling in the accounting profession in Indonesia. This research employs the logistic regression method. Using an online-based survey, resulting 133 respondents working in public accounting firms and private companies. This research finds that women’s perceptions about the occurrence of glass ceiling are driven by bias effects (formal performance evaluations), structural effects (professional advancement), and cultural effects (the support level from male senior leaders). Demographic variables, such as marital status and children ownership also determine the perceptions of glass ceiling. However, there is no difference between female public and private accountants regarding the perceptions of glass ceiling. This research contributes by adding empirical evidence regarding the perceptions of glass ceiling on accounting professional women in developing countries. The results of this research will helps companies focus their efforts on addressing the most influential factors to save resources by not letting talented women employees leave the companies. Furthermore, policy makers are suggested to create regulations that favor women to improve gender equality.
U–Pb Age and Mineral Inclusions in Zircon from Diamondiferous Garnet–Pyroxene Rocks of the Kumdy-Kol Microdiamond Deposit in Northern Kazakhstan
Authors: Ilyin A.A. , Shatsky V.S. , Ragozin A.L.
Published: January 2024

––This paper describes the results of studying inclusions and determining the U–Pb age in zircon from the diamondiferous garnet–pyroxene rock of the Kumdy-Kol metamorphogenic diamond deposit, located in the Kokchetav subduction-collision zone. The distribution of rare earth elements in garnet and clinopyroxene is used as a basis for estimating the equilibrium pressure (5.5 ± 0.3 GPa) and temperature (993 ± 24 °C), which correspond to the diamond stability field. The composition of mineral inclusions in zircon indicates its formation at both the progressive and the regressive stage of metamorphism. The concordia diagram shows that the figurative points of zircon lie on a discordia with an upper intersection at 1953 ± 139 Ma and a lower intersection at 512 ± 4 Ma. The main peak on the graph of the probability density distribution of zircon ages corresponds to an age of 519 Ma. The presence of grossular–almandine garnet inclusions in zircon confirms the previous assumption that the basement rocks of the Kokchetav massif act as protoliths of garnet–pyroxene rocks.
Plan de negocios para la producción y la comercialización de snacks de patas de pollo deshidratados con polvo de pepino para perros en Lima moderna
Authors:   , Ayma Benites Percy , Campos Morales Grecia Carolina , Coca Hauxwell Carlieng Solange , Collantes Carpio Romina Estefania , Senmache De Sousa Boris Billy Thomas
Published: January 2024

El siguiente informe de investigación, que lleva por título “Plan de Negocios para la producción y la comercialización de Snacks de patas de pollo deshidratado con polvo de pepino para perros en Lima Moderna”, tiene por objetivo elaborar y formular una propuesta de valor, con una visión clara y concisa que nos posibilite evaluar la viabilidad y el potencial que tiene la idea del negocio por medio de la producción y la comercialización de snacks para perros con polvo de pepino como valor agregado; dirigido a un público objetivo que cuenta con un estilo de vida definido de cuidado y que busca productos diferenciados para el bienestar integral de sus perros al no encontrar opciones saludables en el mercado petcare.
Efectividad del aclaramiento dental en pacientes con tratamiento de ortodoncia fija activo: una revisión narrativa
Authors:   , Santillán Guerra Adrián Mauricio , Sánchez Rodríguez Angie Melanie
Published: January 2024

Objetivo: Determinar la efectividad del aclaramiento dental y sus efectos secundarios durante el tratamiento de ortodoncia fija activo, como un tratamiento estético alternativo en ciertos casos que lo ameriten. Materiales y métodos: Esta revisión narrativa evaluó 35 artículos científicos procedentes de las fuentes de información (PUBMED, EMBASE, SCOPUS, SCIELO y LILACS de los últimos 10 años, publicadas en español, portugués e inglés. Se incluyeron 17 artículos que cumplieron los criterios de selección que fueron ensayos clínicos aleatorizados y estudios observacionales, in vitro e in vivo que evaluaron el aclaramiento en el consultorio, efectuado a pacientes con tratamiento de ortodoncia fija. Se excluyeron revisiones sistemáticas, reporte de casos y editoriales. Resultados: Se observó que el aclaramiento dental en pacientes con tratamiento de ortodoncia activa afectó mínimamente la adhesión del aparato ortodóntico a la superficie dental. Además, algunos estudios se observaron que los brackets interfirieron en la extensión del aclarador, evidenciándose zonas un poco más oscuras. Conclusiones: El aclaramiento dental durante el tratamiento de ortodoncia se puede dar de forma eficiente en la práctica clínica, dependiendo del requerimiento estético del paciente. Sin embargo, es un procedimiento recomendable en ciertos casos de necesidad estética inmediata, ya que, el material con el que se instalen los brackets a la superficie dental, interferirá en la extensión del material aclarador generando una tonalidad más oscura y diferente al tejido circundante. Asimismo, intervendrá en la adhesión con mucha probabilidad que el aparato ortodóntico se desprenda.
Análisis de la huella de carbono de la Universidad Científica del Sur y propuesta de alternativas de mitigación en el contexto de la Covid-19
Authors:   , Loayza Pastor Daniella
Published: January 2024

Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo proponer medidas de mitigación de Gases de Efecto Invernadero (GEI) del Campus Villa de la Universidad Científica del Sur tomando como punto de partida la medición de su huella de carbono (HC) del año 2020, el cual es considerado un año atípico debido a las restricciones por la COVID-19. Se aplicó la metodología planteada en el Estándar Corporativo de Contabilidad y Reporte del Protocolo de Gases de Efecto Invernadero y la ISO 14 064-1. Se obtuvo que las fuentes de emisiones más importantes en el año 2020 fueron el consumo de energía eléctrica (38.76%), transporte de alumnos, docentes y administrativos (31.20%), transporte de agua (19.17%), crianza de animales (6.26%) y viajes laborales (6.08%), respectivamente. Se propuso la instalación de paneles solares, concientizar sobre la eficiencia energética, promover el uso de movilidad sostenible, hacer la conexión a la red pública de agua potable y fomentar las conferencias virtuales como medidas de mitigación.
Factores asociados a depresión, ansiedad y adicción a sustancias psicoactivas en población penitenciaria en el Perú
Authors:   , Calderon Quiñones Mara , Velit Rios Bruno Fernando
Published: January 2024

Objetivo. Determinar los factores asociados a la co-ocurrencia de trastornos mentales en la población penitenciaria peruana. Material y Método. Estudio analítico transversal de los datos del el Primer Censo Nacional de Población Penitenciaria. La variable dependiente fue la presencia de co-ocurrencia de trastornos mentales (ansiedad, depresión o adicción a sustancias psicoactivas). Se realizó una regresión logística multinomial para determinar los factores asociados con la presencia de la co-ocurrencia de trastornos mentales, y se reportaron los odds ratio (OR) con sus respectivos intervalos de confianza al 95%. Resultados. Se incluyó un total de 74,130 internos en el estudio. La prevalencia de reclusos que padecían un trastorno mental fue de 10,4%, mientras que en los internos que tenían dos o más trastornos mentales fue de 5,1%. Los prisioneros de sexo femenino, que sufren de alguna discapacidad, que presentan una o dos o más comorbilidades, que sufrieron maltrato infantil, que evidenciaron violencia en su hogar, que fugaron de casa antes de los 15 años y aquellos con antecedente familiar de consumo de drogas y encarcelamiento tuvieron una mayor probabilidad de presentar co-ocurrencia de trastornos mentales. Conclusiones. Los hallazgos de nuestro estudio podrían ser de utilidad para la formulación de estrategias dirigidas al diagnóstico y tratamiento oportuno de los trastornos mentales en población penitenciaria con la finalidad de disminuir las consecuencias fatales y promover su reinserción.
Impact of international deployments on epidemic response in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs): A mixed-methods systematic review protocol
Authors: Haque Farhana , Bigirimana Radjabu , Glazik Rosanna , Clery Elizabeth , Kamara Neema , Aragaw Merawi , Nzegwu Femi
Published: January 2024

Background: Substantial resources are invested globally for deploying personnel with technical and operational skillsets to support outbreak response in the low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In deploying to a country there is an underlying commitment to strengthen national outbreak response capacity. However, eliciting specific impacts of an international deployment on enhancing a country’s outbreak response, readiness, and preparedness capacities remain a challenge. This review examines how deployments contribute to containing public health threats in LMICs. Specifically, this review aims to: (i) explore the different international deployment models and/or approaches; (ii) identify and describe the impacts of international deployments to support national outbreak preparedness, readiness and response; and (iii) identify the facilitators and the barriers to improving public health emergency response and recovery capacities of the LMICs.
Methods: The reviewers will search the following databases for peer-reviewed articles published between January 2012 and June 2023: MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, Globus Index Medicus, Web of Science and Google Scholar using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and keywords. ReliefWeb and websites of relevant humanitarian and health organisations will be searched for grey literature. The identified articles will be assessed for meeting the eligibility criteria. Two independent reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts and review the full texts of the selected articles. A customised data extraction form will be utilised. The quality of included peer-reviewed articles will be assessed using the Quality Assessment with Diverse Studies (QuADS)appraisal tool. Grey literature will be assessed using the AACODS checklist. Results from eligible articles will be analysed qualitatively using thematic synthesis. Descriptive statistics will be generated to summarise quantitative results. A parallel-results convergent synthesis approach will be used to narratively triangulate the qualitative and the quantitative findings. The results will be reported according to the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015 statement and synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) guideline.
Discussion: This systematic review will identify the contributions of international deployments in improving LMICs’ public health emergency response capacities. The findings may help to refine international assistance strategies to support outbreak response efforts in the LMICs.
Systematic review registration:PROSPERO CRD42023404346
Global distribution and biodiversity of brachyuran crabs in the Persian Gulf
Authors: Hashemian Nima , Naderloo Reza , Shahdadi Adnan , Saeedi Hanieh
Published: January 2024

The tropical Indo-West Pacific (IWP) is one of the species-rich and high endemicity hotspots around the East Indies Triangle. However, recent research demonstrates that peripheral regions may act as evolutionary incubators, sharing unique genetic lineages with other regions of the IWP. The Persian Gulf is a shallow semi-enclosed marginal sea basin characterized by geological history, stressful environmental conditions, and intermittent connection with the Indian Ocean during the Pleistocene glacial periods. Understanding the global distribution and importance of environmental variables in shaping species richness patterns of brachyuran crabs in this region is necessary for comprehending evolutionary and ecological processes, as well as conservation priorities. We merged our own distribution dataset of 261 species of brachyuran crabs in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman with the GBIF and OBIS open-access biodiversity datasets, which lack the data from this region. QGIS 3.24.3 and R 4.2.2 packages were used for data analysis and visualization of the distribution records. The highest sampling effort (1,955), species richness (225 spp.) and ES50 (expected number of species) (40.94), along with 21 endemic species of brachyuran crabs were observed in the Persian Gulf. Distribution and species richness of brachyuran crabs significantly increased with temperature (°C) and calcite (mol.m-3), and decreased with dissolved oxygen (mol.m-3), and nitrate (mol.m-3), the focus of this study. This study suggested that the Persian Gulf, as a peripheral region, may play a role in shaping brachyuran diversity and current species distribution. This highlights the importance of prioritizing marine protected areas and establishing species management in this economically and ecologically important region.
Simulating non-physical actions via exponentiation of Hermitian-preserving maps
Authors: Liu Zhengwei , Wei Fuchuan , Liu Zhenhuan , Liu Guoding , Han Zizhao , Deng Dong-Ling
Published: January 2024

Legitimate quantum operations must adhere to principles of quantum mechanics, particularly the requirements of complete positivity and trace preservation. Yet, non-physical maps, especially Hermitian-preserving maps, play a crucial role in quantum information science. Here, we introduce the Hermitian-preserving map exponentiation algorithm, which can effectively simulate the action of an arbitrary Hermitian-preserving map by exponentiating its output, N(ρ), into a quantum process, e-iN(ρ)t. We analyze the sample complexity of this algorithm and prove its optimality in certain cases. Utilizing positive but not completely positive maps, this algorithm provides exponential speedups in entanglement detection and quantification compared to protocols based on single-copy operations. In addition, it facilitates the recovery of noiseless quantum states from multiple copies of noisy ones by simulating the inverse map of the corresponding noise channel, providing a new approach to handling quantum noises. This algorithm acts as a building block of large-scale quantum algorithms and presents a pathway for exploring potential quantum speedups across a wide range of information-processing tasks.
Surgeons' opinions and concerns regarding prophylactic mesh placement when conducting a permanent colostomy A survey among 172 surgeons in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria
Authors: Paasch Christoph , Kalmykov Egan , Lorenz Ralph , Neveling Nele , Mantke Rene
Published: January 2024

Background
Prophylactic mesh placement when creating a permanent colostomy was recommended by the 2017 European Hernia Society guidelines on the prevention and treatment of parastomal hernias (GPTPH2017). The extent of this recommendation is under debate based on the long-term data from clinical trials. Our aim was to conduct a survey of surgeons revealing perspectives and concerns regarding GPTPH2017 and to discuss their concerns.
Methods
From January 2023 to September 2023 a survey among surgeons of Germany, Switzerland and Austria was conducted. The questionnaire addressed biometric data of the participants, information on work experience/location, number of elective permanent colo- and ileostomies, and opinions on the recommendation of GPTPH2017 for prophylactic mesh placement.
Results
A total of 172 surgeons from Germany, Austria and Switzerland answered the questionnaire. The majority of the 59 participants stated professional experience of 20–30 years. Most of the surgeons (n = 51, 31.29%) worked in a hospital of primary care. A total of 112 (68.29%) participants were familiar with the GPTPH2017. Sixty-five surgeons (39.99%) stated that they never conduct a prophylactic mesh placement when creating an elective permanent colostomy (rarely, n = 44 (26.67%). Seven participants always place a mesh (4.24%). Main concerns regarding prophylactic mesh placement were the risk of wound infection (n = 107, 67.72%) and lack of evidence (n = 65, 41.14%). For some participants the GPTPH2017 is seen to be industry-driven with low evidence, too old and leading to overtreatment.
Conclusions
Main reason for not placing a prophylactic mesh when conducting a permanent colostomy was the risk of wound infection.
Metabolomic profiling reveals the step-wise alteration of bile acid metabolism in patients with diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Liu Zhangsuo , Zhang Qing , Lu Liqian , Wang Jiao , Lu Manman , Liu Dongwei , Zhou Chunyu
Published: January 2024

Background
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the major complication of diabetes concomitant with gut dysbiosis and glycometabolic disorder, which are strongly associated with bile acid (BA) metabolism. Yet studies investigating the BA metabolism involving in DKD pathogenesis are limited. This study aimed to explore the metabolomic profiling of BAs in DKD and analyze its association with DKD progression.
Methods
An ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was established to quantify BAs in the plasma, fecal and urine samples of patients with DKD or T2DM and healthy individuals (n = 30 for each group). The key BAs associated with DKD were identified by orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Polynomial regression and Pearson’s correlation analyses were performed to assess the correlation between the key BAs and the clinical indicators reflecting DKD progression.
Results
Metabolomic profiling of 50 kinds of BAs presented the markedly step-wise alterations of BAs in plasma and feces as well as the little in urine of DKD patients. Eight kinds of BAs in the plasma, eight kinds in the feces and three kinds in the urine were abnormally expressed, accompanying with the increased conjugated/unconjugated ratios of cholic acid, deoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid and hyocholic acid in the plasma, and of cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid in the feces. Moreover, the increased plasma level of glycochenodeoxycholic acid, and the increased fecal levels of glycolithocholic acid, 7-ketodeoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid-3-β-D-glucuronide are strongly correlated with the clinical indicators reflecting DKD progression, including eGFR, 24-hours urinary protein and 24-hours urinary microalbumin.
Conclusions
Our study for the first time disclosed the specific alterations of BA metabolism reflecting the step-wise progression of DKD, providing the basis for early identification and therapeutical strategies for DKD.
Prenatal Ultrasound Evaluation for Detection of Imperforate Anus with Fistula
Authors: Peng Xinhua , luo yingchun , Zhu Huijuan , kuang haiyan , jiang meiping , zhou cheng , peng danni , fu shengyu
Published: January 2024

Objective This study aims to observe the prenatal ultrasound image characteristics of imperforate anus with fistula and explore the application of prenatal ultrasound in diagnosing this condition.Methods A retrospective review was conducted on six cases diagnosed with imperforate anus with fistula using prenatal ultrasound. Fetal pelvis examination, through sagittal or coronal views, was performed to identify the location of the fistulas. The results were compared with induction of labor autopsy or physical examination of the newborn.Results Prenatal ultrasound successfully diagnosed six cases of imperforate anus with fistula, including four cases of low-type (two rectovestibular fistula and two rectoperineal fistula) and two cases of high-type (rectovaginal fistula). In the four cases of low-type, a distinctive "target ring sign" was observed in the transverse view of the perineum. The fistulas were superficially located, and their distal openings, or even the entire fistula, could be identified in either the sagittal or coronal plane. In the two cases of high-type, no "target ring sign" was observed, and the fistulas were deeper within the skin. However, a portion of the middle segment of the fistula was detectable in the sagittal or coronal plane.Conclusions Prenatal ultrasound imaging, under normal fetal position and amniotic fluid conditions, can visualize fistulas in fetuses with imperforate anus. The sagittal and coronal views obtained through the sacrococcygeal region provide optimal visualization of the fistulas. The diagnosis of low-type imperforate anus may be challenging due to the presence of the "target ring sign." Further scanning of the fistula in the sagittal or coronal plane can help reduce missed diagnoses of low-type imperforate anus. The identification of fistulas also offers new insights and directions for the prenatal diagnosis of low-type imperforate anus.
Elevated serum NLR and PLR are associated with a higher risk of atherosclerotic renal stenosis
Authors: Xu Ge , Wu Yuping , Tang Yaohan , Huang Xiafei , Wu Jinsui , Li Kerong , Xu Ge
Published: January 2024

There is still a lack of effective non-invasive diagnosis of atherosclerotic renal stenosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (ARAS). Data of a total of 1062 patients (362 ARAS, 664 non-ARAS) were collected. Logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to analyze the collected patient data. NLR and PLR levels were significantly increased in ARAS group compared with non-ARAS group (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that both NLR and PLR were positively correlated with ARAS (r = 0.199, r = 0.251, p < 0.05), and only NLR was positively correlated with the degree of stenosis of ARAS (r = 0.152, p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression showed that NLR (OR = 1.203, 95%CI = 1.023 ~ 1.046, P = 0.025) and PLR (OR = 1.011, 95%CI = 1.003 ~ 1.019, P = 0.004) were independent risk factors for ARAS. The ROC curve indicated that the diagnostic value of NLR and PLR were (AUC = 0.653, P < 0.001; AUC = 0.62, P < 0.001). In conclusion, elevated levels of NLR and PLR are associated with an increased risk of developing ARAS. NLR and PLR have the potential to be a means of diagnosing ARSA.
Delayed recovery of Atlantic meridional ocean circulation threatens Europe-wide gross primary productivity under positive and negative CO2 emissions
Authors: Yang Young-Min , Shin JongSoo , Park So-Won , An Soon , Kug Jong-Seong , Yeh Sang-Wook , Lee June-Yi , Wang Bin , Li Tim
Published: January 2024

Climate change mitigation through negative CO2 emissions has been recognized as a crucial strategy to combat global warming. However, its potential effects on terrestrial carbon uptake and agricultural productivity, particularly in Europe, remain uncertain. In this study, we utilized large ensemble simulations with an Earth system model of full complexity to investigate the response of Gross Primary Production (GPP) in the region. Our findings reveal a significant asymmetry in the GPP response to CO2 ramp-up and symmetric ramp-down model experiments, indicating that GPP at lowering atmospheric CO2 levels is more efficiently reduced than those at raising CO2. Remarkably, during the CO2 removal period, the North Atlantic Sea surface temperature (NASST) experienced cooling due to a delayed recovery of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). This cooling led to precipitation and soil moisture deficits, resulting in a rapid reduction in GPP. This asymmetry in GPP response holds consistent across multi-model simulations. These results underscore the potential implications of delayed recovery in ocean circulation, which could unexpectedly accelerate terrestrial GPP reduction. These insights are crucial for policymakers, aiding them in projecting agricultural activity and formulating targeted GPP control policies specific to the European region.
Validity of a one-stop automatic algorithm for counting clusters and shifts in the Semantic Fluency Task
Authors: Carriedo Nuria , Canessa Enrique , Moreno Sebastián , Iglesias-Sarmiento Valentín , Chaigneau Sergio E.
Published: January 2024

We introduce a computational algorithm for the Semantic Fluency Task (SFT), which automatically counts clusters and shifts. We compared its output relative to human coders, and its performance in predicting executive functions (EF), intelligence, processing speed, and semantic retrieval, also against human coders. Correlations with EF subdomains and other cognitive factors closely resembled those of human coders, evidencing convergent validity. We also used Naïve Bayes and Decision Tree for age classification, with algorithm outputs successfully discriminating age groups, evidence of discriminant validity. Clusters and shifts were found to be more important than word counts. The algorithm's consistency extended across semantic categories (animals, clothing, foods), suggesting its robustness and generalizability. We believe that our algorithm is applicable beyond the specifics of the SFT, and to many tasks in which people list items from semantic memory (e.g., tasks like free associates, top-of-mind, feature listing). Practical implications of the algorithm’s ease of implementation and relevance for studying the relation of the SFT to EFs and other research problems are discussed.
AgriGAN: Unpaired image dehazing via A Cycle-Consistent Generative Adversarial Network for the Agricultural Plant Phenotype
Authors: Ding Jin-Ting , Peng Yong-Yu , Huang Min , Zhou Sheng-Jun
Published: January 2024

Artificially extracted agricultural phenotype information has high subjectivity and low accuracy, and the use of image extraction information is easily disturbed by haze. Moreover, the agricultural image dehazing method used to extract such information is ineffective, as the images often contain unclear texture information and image colors. To address these shortcomings, we propose unpaired image dehazing via a cycle-consistent generative adversarial network for the agricultural plant phenotype (AgriGAN). The algorithm improves the dehazing performance of the network by adding the atmospheric scattering model, which improves the discriminator model, and uses the whole-detail consistent discrimination method to improve the efficiency of the discriminator so that the adversarial network can accelerate the convergence to the Nashi equilibrium state. Finally, the dehazed images are obtained by training with network adversarial loss + cycle consistent loss. Experiments and a comparative analysis were conducted to evaluate the algorithm, and the results show that it improved the dehazing accuracy of agricultural images, retained detailed texture information, and mitigated the problem of color deviation. In turn, useful information was obtained, such as crop height, chlorophyll and nitrogen content, and the presence and extent of disease. The algorithm's object identification and information extraction can be useful in crop growth monitoring and yield and quality estimation.
Characterization of the MIB-MIP system of different Mollicutes using an engineered Mycoplasma feriruminatoris
Authors: Torres-Puig Sergi , Crespo-Pomar Silvia , Akarsu Hatice , Yimthin Thatcha , Cippà Valentina , Démoulins Thomas , Posthaus Horst , Ruggli Nicolas , Kuhnert Peter , Labroussaa Fabien , Jores Jörg
Published: January 2024

The Mycoplasma Immunoglobulin Binding/Protease (MIB-MIP) system is a candidate virulence factor present in multiple pathogenic species of the Mollicutes, including the fast-growing species Mycoplasma feriruminatoris. The MIB-MIP system cleaves the heavy chain of host immunoglobulins, hence affecting antigen-antibody interactions and potentially facilitating immune evasion. In this work we analyzed the distribution and genetic relatedness between MIB-MIP systems of different Mollicutes species. Using -omics technologies, we show that the four copies of the M. feriruminatoris MIB-MIP system have different expression levels, are transcribed as operons controlled by four different promotors. Individual MIB-MIP gene pairs of M. feriruminatoris and other Mollicutes were introduced in an engineered M. feriruminatoris strain devoid of MIB-MIP genes and were tested for their functionality using oriC-based plasmids. The two proteins were functionally expressed at the surface of M. feriruminatoris, which confirms the possibility to display large functional heterologous surface proteins in M. ferirumintoris. Functional expression of heterologous MIB-MIP systems introduced in this engineered strain from phylogenetically distant porcine Mollicutes like Mesomycoplasma hyorhinis or Mesomycoplasma hyopneumoniae could not be achieved. Finally, since M. feriruminatoris is a candidate for biomedical applications such as drug delivery, we confirmed its safety in vivo in domestic goats, which are the closest livestock relatives to its native host the Alpine ibex.
Connectivity mediates the spatial ecological impacts of a glyphosate-based herbicide in experimental metaecosystems
Authors: Dastis Jorge Octavio Negrín , McGuinness Brendon , Tadiri Christina P. , Yargeau Viviane , Gonzalez Andrew
Published: January 2024

Connectivity is important for the structure and functioning of metaecosystems. We experimentally replicated metaecosystems in the laboratory using gradostats - a modified chemostat with flasks linked by a controlled flow of medium - as a model system. Metaecosystems were represented in our experiment as chain of flasks connected by spatial flows of medium containing glyphosate based herbicide (RoundUp). With this experimental set-up, we tested the effects of structural and functional connectivity and herbicide on phytoplankton productivity, diversity and population stability. Gradostats were composed of interconnected equally-spaced habitat nodes where resources and producers flow directionally along a gradient of increasing distance from the source of the herbicide. We predicted that connectivity would mediate the effects of the herbicide spreading through the chain of connected ecosystems. We found that RoundUp impacted overall phytoplankton productivity and diversity by reducing algal biomass and species-level abundances of phytoplankton in the treated flasks compared to controls. This effect was mediated by structural connectivity, which in interaction with flow, had reduced phytoplankton community stability by the end of the experiment at the local level, especially in the first flask receiving herbicide. The effects did do not scale up to the entire metaecosystem. Together, these results point to the importance of structural connectivity as a mediator of the ecological effects of herbicide transferred by flows across a linear chain of ecosystems.
Interleukin 35 promotes progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by recruiting neutrophils
Authors: GAN WEI , Sun Guoqiang , Huang JinLong , Sun BaoYe , Wang ZhuTao , Yang ZhangFu , Zhou Cheng , Yi Yong , Qiu ShuangJian
Published: January 2024

Background
A growing number of therapeutic strategies against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have emerged. However, their efficacy remains limited. This study investigated the mechanism of interleukin-35 (IL-35) in the progression of HCC and its potential application in HCC treatment.
Methods
The expression of IL-35,Gp130 ,IL12-Rβ2, CCL3,etc. in HCC tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry(IHC), and the expression of IL-35 in HCC cell lines was detected by fluorescence assay. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis of IL-35 and its receptor in relation to overall survival(OS) and recurrence free survival(RFS) in patients with HCC. The mouse subcutaneous tumor models to study the effects of IL-35 on HCC growth and immune cells. Western blot were used to detect the expression IL-35, CCL3, FGF2, and flow cytometric plot were performed to explore the immune cells infiltration in the tumor tissue.
Results
High expression of IL-35 in patients with HCC was associated with poor prognosis. Furthermore, IL-35 could facilitate tumor progression by affecting neutrophil infiltration, angiogenesis, and CD8 + T-cell infiltration. Additionally, CCL3 was a key factor mediating the recruitment of neutrophils by IL-35. FGF2 derived from neutrophils stimulated by IL-35 promoted intratumoral angiogenesis. IL-35 also facilitated the adhesion of tumors to endothelial cells, with neutrophils further enhancing this effect both. Anti-IL-35 antibody combined with anti-PD1 antibody significantly enhanced which therapeutic effect in HCC.
Conclusion
Our data show that the high expression of IL-35 in patients with HCC is an important tumor promoter. Combined treatment with anti-IL-35 and anti-PD1 antibodies have potential therapeutic effect against HCC.
Smart city construction and intelligent development of urban industries: Empirical evidence from China
Authors: Feihu Yang , Xing Huang , Yating Li
Published: January 2024

Smart cities, as a product of the deep integration of digital technology and urban development, are not only a vital part of achieving the vision of a strong network nation and digital China but also a key practical approach to driving the intelligent transformation of cities and empowering them with digital technology. This paper, based on panel data from 207 Chinese cities from 2008 to 2019, employs the difference-in-differences method to explore the impact of smart city construction on the level of industrial intelligence in cities. It further analyzes the heterogeneity and mechanisms of this impact. The main conclusions drawn from the study are as follows: First, compared to non-pilot cities, the construction of smart cities significantly enhances the level of industrial intelligence in pilot cities. This conclusion holds true even after a series of robustness tests. Second, the positive impact of smart city construction on the level of industrial intelligence is primarily concentrated in eastern cities, cities with a high level of digital economy development, and cities with strong innovation capabilities. The impact is less significant or negligible in central and western cities, cities with a lower level of digital economy development, and cities with weaker innovation capabilities. Third, the construction of smart cities promotes the development of industrial intelligence in cities by enhancing urban innovation capabilities and improving the development level of new infrastructure.
Probing a neural unreliability account of auditory sensory processing atypicalities in Rett Syndrome.
Authors: Brima Tufikameni , Beker Shlomit , Prinsloo Kevin D. , Butler John S. , Djukic Aleksandra , Freedman Edward G. , Molholm Sophie , Foxe John J.
Published: January 2024

Background
In the search for objective tools to quantify neural function in Rett Syndrome (RTT), which are crucial in the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials, recordings of sensory-perceptual functioning using event-related potential (ERP) approaches have emerged as potentially powerful tools. Considerable work points to highly anomalous auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) in RTT. However, an assumption of the typical signal-averaging method used to derive these measures is “stationarity” of the underlying responses – i.e. neural responses to each input are highly stereotyped. An alternate possibility is that responses to repeated stimuli are highly variable in RTT. If so, this will significantly impact the validity of assumptions about underlying neural dysfunction, and likely lead to overestimation of underlying neuropathology. To assess this possibility, analyses at the single-trial level assessing signal-to-noise ratios (SNR), inter-trial variability (ITV) and inter-trial phase coherence (ITPC) are necessary.
Methods
AEPs were recorded to simple 100Hz tones from 18 RTT and 27 age-matched controls (Ages: 6–22 years). We applied standard AEP averaging, as well as measures of neuronal reliability at the single-trial level (i.e. SNR, ITV, ITPC). To separate signal-carrying components from non-neural noise sources, we also applied a denoising source separation (DSS) algorithm and then repeated the reliability measures.
Results
Substantially increased ITV, lower SNRs, and reduced ITPC were observed in auditory responses of RTT participants, supporting a “neural unreliability” account. Application of the DSS technique made it clear that non-neural noise sources contribute to overestimation of the extent of processing deficits in RTT. Post-DSS, ITV measures were substantially reduced, so much so that pre-DSS ITV differences between RTT and TD populations were no longer detected. In the case of SNR and ITPC, DSS substantially improved these estimates in the RTT population, but robust differences between RTT and TD were still fully evident.
Conclusions
To accurately represent the degree of neural dysfunction in RTT using the ERP technique, a consideration of response reliability at the single-trial level is highly advised. Non-neural sources of noise lead to overestimation of the degree of pathological processing in RTT, and denoising source separation techniques during signal processing substantially ameliorate this issue.
Plant production and community structure in a mesic semi-natural grassland: Moderate soil texture variation has a much stronger influence than experimentally increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition
Authors: Hamp Meghan , Grogan Paul
Published: January 2024

Aims
Atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition derived from agricultural intensification and fossil fuel burning can significantly impact plant growth, species diversity, and nutrient cycling. Semi-natural grasslands are of particular concern because their generally low intensity agricultural management suggests they may be very sensitive to enhanced atmospheric N deposition inputs, although previous experimental research indicates highly variable site-specific responses. Mediating factors such as soil texture that influence actual availability of soil water and nutrients to plants have generally not been investigated.
Methods
We report the impacts of 16 years of experimental N addition (simulating 2050 atmospheric N input rates) to a hayfield of varying loamy soil texture (clay-loam – sandy-loam) on plant community structure and above-and belowground biomass.
Results
Chronic low-level N addition treatment had no significant effects, while species richness, diversity, and aboveground growth were best explained by variation in soil water-filled pore space and were substantially larger on those plots with clay-rich soils.
Conclusions
The consistent lack of responses to the low-level N additions and the lack of a growth response to a separate single year’s factorial high-level N and phosphorus addition experiment, indicate that future atmospheric N deposition increases are unlikely to have major impacts on hay production or species composition in mesic semi-natural grasslands. By contrast, the strong interconnected influences of soil clay content and water availability in our results suggest that texture variation – even within loamy soils - will be a primary determinant of the impacts of anticipated future summer warming and reduced rainfall on hayfield vegetation.
Enhanced Immunosuppressive Capability of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Small Extracellular Vesicles with High Expression of CD73 in Experimental Autoimmune Uveitis
Authors: Duan Yanan , Chen Xiteng , Shao Hui , Li Yongtao , Zhang Zhihui , Li Huan , Zhao Chuan , Xiao Hong , Wang Jiawei , Zhang Xiaomin
Published: January 2024

Background: Autoimmune uveitis is an inflammatory disease triggered by an aberrant immune response. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles (MSC-sEVs) are emerging as potential therapeutic agents for this condition. CD73, an ectoenzyme present on MSC-sEVs, is involved in mitigating inflammation by converting extracellular adenosine monophosphate into adenosine. We hypothesize that the inhibitory effect of MSC-sEVs on experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) could be partially attributed to the surface expression of CD73.
Methods: To investigate novel therapeutic approaches for autoimmune uveitis, we performed lentiviral transduction to overexpress CD73 on the surface of MSC-sEVs, yielding CD73-enriched MSC-sEVs (sEVs-CD73). Mice with IRBP-induced EAU were grouped randomly and treated with 50 μg MSC-sEVs, vector infected MSC-sEVs, sEVs-CD73 or PBS via single tail vein injection. We evaluated the clinical and histological features of the induced mice and analyzed the proportion and functional capabilities of T helper cells. Furthermore, T-cells were co-cultured with various MSC-sEVs in vitro, and we quantified the resulting inflammatory response to assess the potential therapeutic benefits of sEVs-CD73.
Results: Compared to MSC-sEVs, sEVs-CD73 significantly alleviates EAU, leading to reduced inflammation and diminished tissue damage. Treatment with sEVs-CD73 results in a decreased proportion of Th1 cells in the spleen, draining lymph nodes, and eyes, accompanied by an increased proportion of Treg cells. In vitro assays further reveal that sEVs-CD73 inhibit T-cell proliferation, suppress Th1 cells differentiation, and enhance Treg cells proportion.
Conclusion: Over-expression of CD73 on MSC-sEVs enhanced their immunosuppressive effects in EAU, indicating that sEVs-CD73 have the potential as an efficient immunotherapeutic agent for autoimmune uveitis.
The clinicopathological features and possible physiological mechanisms of only EGFR-T790M primary mutation in lung adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: zhao ping , Xu Li , Zhu Huijuan , Ding wei , Tang Hui
Published: January 2024

The EGFR-T790M mutation often increases the difficulty of treatment in non-small cell lung cancer patients. The only EGFR-T790M primary mutation of the lung adenocarcinoma(LUAD) is rare, there are relatively few reports on the clinicopathological characteristics and physiological mechanisms of this disease. We collected the clinical data of LUAD patients with only EGFR-T790M primary mutation to analyze the Clinicopathological features and possible physiological mechanism and provide evidences for clinical treatment. We found that the β-Catenin and Cyclin D1 were strongly positive. Only using the EGFR TKIs to treat this disease can obtain a partial response(PR) time of less than 8 months, Serum CYFRA 21 − 1 was significantly increased in the patient with Ki67 and mutant P53 positive, and the tumor cells are easy to metastasize and have a fast course of disease. The patient with negative Ki67 and mutant P53 underwent surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy, and the progression-free survival (PFS) time was 25 months. Our findings reveal that only EGFR-T790M primary mutation has no concern with the staging of lung cancer, it is related to the abnormal activation of Wnt signaling pathway; The combination of Ki67 and mutated P53 may be used as a prognostic indicator for this kind of patients.
Intraseasonal impact of the Scandinavian pattern on winter surface air temperature over Asia
Authors: Huang Qilei , Shi Ning , Zhou Botao
Published: January 2024

This study employs the ERA5 and JRA55 monthly reanalysis datasets to examine the intraseasonal impact of the Scandinavian (SCA) teleconnection pattern on the surface air temperature (SAT) over Asia in boreal winters from 1958 to 2021. We demonstrate that the impacts of the SCA pattern exhibit evident intraseasonal variations. Notably, the accumulated SAT anomalies over the region to the north of Tibetan Plateau (NP) due to the SCA pattern tend to propagate southward to the eastern China (EC) during late winter, which is associated with the gradually intensifying westward gradient of the air temperature to the east of Tibetan Plateau. Furthermore, both the November and January SCA patterns can significantly cause one-month-lagged SAT anomalies over the NP, albeit through different mechanisms. For the November SCA pattern, the associated snow cover anomalies can persist until December, facilitating the formation of local significant SAT anomalies via anomalous sensible heat flux. In contrast, from January to February, the background gradients of both the air temperature and potential vorticity intensify, creating more favorable conditions for the vertical coupling between the upper and lower circulation anomalies associated with the SCA pattern. Consequently, the SCA pattern tends to persist, leading to significant SAT anomalies over both the NP and EC in February. These significant influences of the SCA pattern exhibit evident interdecadal variations.
Individual- and community-level determinants of the number of antenatal care visits in emerging regions of Ethiopia: a negative binomial model
Authors: Getachew Eyob , Aragaw Fantu Mamo
Published: January 2024

Objective:- This study was carried out to identify individual and community-level factors influencing the number of antenatal care (ANC) visits in Ethiopia's emerging regions (Afar, Somali, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Gambella).
Design:- Cross-sectional study design.
Setting:- Ethiopia's emerging regions(Afar, Somali, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Gambella) from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey.
Participants:- The analysis included a total weighted sample of 441 women from the EDHS dataset who had given birth within the five years before the survey.
Primary outcomes:- The number of ANC visits.
Results: In this study, 20.5% (95% CI: 16.7%, 24.5%) of pregnant women received four minimum recommended visits. Women with secondary (IRR 1.3; 95%CI: 1.1, 1.5), and higher (IRR 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1, 1.5) education, terminated pregnancy (IRR 2.3; 95% CI: 1.9, 3.1), wanted pregnancy (IRR 1.4; 95% CI: 1.3, 2.3), high community poverty (IRR 0.5; 95%CI: 0.4, 0.7), community media exposure (IRR 1.3; 95% CI: 1.3, 1.8), and high community illiteracy (IRR 0.6; 95% CI: 0.5, 0.9) were significant predictors of many antenatal care visits in Ethiopia’s emerging regions.
Conclusions: According to the findings of our study, more than three-quarters of pregnant mothers in Ethiopia's emerging region did not receive the adequate number of visits recommended by the WHO. Pregnancy desirability, history of a terminated pregnancy, maternal education; community poverty level, community literacy, and community media exposure were significantly associated with the number of ANC visits. Therefore, Promoting interpectoral actions would be vital in improving maternal health.
Overall survival was inferior in octogenarians with early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing percutaneous radiofrequency ablation.
Authors: Yen Yi-Hao , Kee Kwong-Ming , Hung Chao-Hung , Chen Chien-Hung , Hu Tsung-Hui , Wang Jing-Houng , Lin Chih-Yun
Published: January 2024

It is unclear whether overall survival (OS) differs by age for patients with early‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing radiofrequency ablation (RFA). We aim to clarify this issue. All patients diagnosed with early‐stage HCC (i.e., within Milan criteria) and Child–Pugh class A liver disease undergoing RFA between 2011 and 2021 were enrolled. Patients with incomplete ablation were excluded. This study enrolled 791 patients and them divided into four groups by age: <70 years (Group 1, n = 508), 70–74 years (Group 2, n = 122), 75–79 years (Group 3, n = 102), and ≥80 years (Group 4, n = 59). The five-year OS was 65% in Group 1, 60% in Group 2, 53% in Group 3, and 38 % in Group 4 (p = 0.009). With Group 4 as the reference, multivariate analysis indicated that Groups 1 (HR: 0.496, 95% CI: 0.314–0.785, p = 0.003) and 3 (HR: 0.496, 95% CI: 0.277–0.889, p= 0.018) but not Group 2 (HR: 0.689, 95% CI: 0.403–1.179, p = 0.174) were independent factors associated with superior five-year OS. In conclusion, among patients with early-stage HCC and Child–Pugh class A liver disease undergoing RFA, those aged ≥80 years had inferior five-year OS.