bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Xylocopa caerulea and Xylocopa auripennis harbor a homologous gut microbiome related to that of eusocial bees
Authors: Gu Yifan , Han Wensu , Wang Yuquan , Liang Danlei , Gao Jinglin , Zhong Yihai , Zhao Shan , Wang Shijie
Published: May 2023

Background

Eusocial bees, such as bumblebees and honey bees, harbor host-specific gut microbiota through their social behaviors. Conversely, the gut microbiota of solitary bees is erratic owing to their lack of eusocial activities. Carpenter bees (genus Xylocopa) are long-lived bees that do not exhibit advanced eusociality like honey bees. However, they often compete for nests to reproduce. Xylocopa caerulea and Xylocopa auripennis are important pollinators of wild plants on Hainan Island. Whether they have host-specific bacteria in their guts similar to eusocial bees remains unknown.

Methods

We targeted the bacterial 16S rRNA V3-V4 region to investigate the diversity of bacterial symbionts in the fore-midgut and hindgut of two carpenter bees, X. caerulea and X. auripennis.

Results

A maximum of 4,429 unique amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were detected from all samples, belonging to 10 different phyla. X. caerulea and X. auripennis shared similar bacterial community profiles, with Lactobacillaceae, Bifidobacteriaceae, and Orbaceae being dominant in their entire guts. X. caerulea and X. auripennis harbor a highly conserved core set of bacteria, including the genera Candidatus Schmidhempelia and Bombiscardovia. These two bacterial taxa from carpenter bees are closely related to those isolated from bumblebees. The LEfSe analysis showed that Lactobacillaceae, Bifidobacteriaceae, and the genus Bombilactobacillus were significantly enriched in the hindguts of both carpenter bees. Functional prediction suggested that the most enriched pathways were involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

Our results revealed the structure of the gut microbiota in two carpenter bees and confirmed the presence of some core bacterial taxa that were previously only found in the guts of social bees.
Polymorphism, gigantism, and cannibalism, one stylonychid ciliate (Ciliophora, Hypotricha) to rule them all
Authors: Omar Atef , Jang Seok Won , Jung Jae-Ho
Published: May 2023

The morphology, ontogenesis, and molecular phylogeny of the polymorphic and cannibalistic giant forming Tetmemena polymorpha n. sp., found in a brackish water sample in South Korea, were investigated. The present species has long been misidentified as “Oxytricha bifaria.” The new investigation shows that the species produces three morphologically different morphs. The small morph is bacterivorous and characterized by its small body size and slim body and it is found only in the stationary and decline phases of the culture. The large morph has a wide body, larger oral apparatus, and feeds on small eukaryotes such as yeast cells and small ciliates. It divides very quickly and produces the other two morphs and found in the exponential phase of the cultures. The giant morph is characterized by its huge body and oral apparatus. It feeds on the small morph cells of the same species and other ciliates, and occurs together with the small morph. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 18S rRNA gene sequences show that the new species is placed in a sister subclade to that containing other Tetmemena sequences. Moreover, Tetmemena indica Bharti et al., 2019 nov. stat. is raised to species level based on the differences in the cyst morphology and the dorsal ciliature to the authoritative Tetmemena pustulata population.
Dynamic models for musical rhythm perception and coordination
Authors: Large Edward W. , Roman Iran , Kim Ji Chul , Cannon Jonathan , Pazdera Jesse K. , Trainor Laurel J. , Rinzel John , Bose Amitabha
Published: May 2023

Rhythmicity permeates large parts of human experience. Humans generate various motor and brain rhythms spanning a range of frequencies. We also experience and synchronize to externally imposed rhythmicity, for example from music and song or from the 24-h light-dark cycles of the sun. In the context of music, humans have the ability to perceive, generate, and anticipate rhythmic structures, for example, “the beat.” Experimental and behavioral studies offer clues about the biophysical and neural mechanisms that underlie our rhythmic abilities, and about different brain areas that are involved but many open questions remain. In this paper, we review several theoretical and computational approaches, each centered at different levels of description, that address specific aspects of musical rhythmic generation, perception, attention, perception-action coordination, and learning. We survey methods and results from applications of dynamical systems theory, neuro-mechanistic modeling, and Bayesian inference. Some frameworks rely on synchronization of intrinsic brain rhythms that span the relevant frequency range; some formulations involve real-time adaptation schemes for error-correction to align the phase and frequency of a dedicated circuit; others involve learning and dynamically adjusting expectations to make rhythm tracking predictions. Each of the approaches, while initially designed to answer specific questions, offers the possibility of being integrated into a larger framework that provides insights into our ability to perceive and generate rhythmic patterns.
Pipsqueak family genes dan/danr antagonize nuclear Pros to prevent neural stem cell aging in Drosophila larval brains
Authors: An Huanping , Yu Yue , Ren Xuming , Zeng Minghua , Bai Yu , Liu Tao , Zheng Huimei , Sang Rong , Zhang Fan , Cai Yu , Xi Yongmei
Published: May 2023

Neural stem cell aging is a fundamental question in neurogenesis. Premature nuclear Pros is considered as an indicator of early neural stem cell aging in Drosophila. The underlying mechanism of how neural stem cells prevent premature nuclear Pros remains largely unknown. Here we identified that two pipsqueak family genes, distal antenna (dan) and distal antenna-related (danr), promote the proliferation of neural stem cells (also called neuroblasts, NBs) in third instar larval brains. In the absence of Dan and Danr (dan/danr), the NBs produce fewer daughter cells with smaller lineage sizes. The larval brain NBs in dan/danr clones show premature accumulation of nuclear Prospero (Pros), which usually appears in the terminating NBs at early pupal stage. The premature nuclear Pros leads to NBs cell cycle defects and NB identities loss. Removal of Pros from dan/danr MARCM clones prevents lineage size shrinkage and rescues the loss of NB markers. We propose that the timing of nuclear Pros is after the downregulation of dan/danr in the wt terminating NBs. dan/danr and nuclear Pros are mutually exclusive in NBs. In addition, dan/danr are also required for the late temporal regulator, Grainyhead (Grh), in third instar larval brains. Our study uncovers the novel function of dan/danr in NBs cell fate maintenance. dan/danr antagonize nuclear Pros to prevent NBs aging in Drosophila larval brains.
Dynamic causal modeling reveals increased cerebellar- periaqueductal gray communication during fear extinction
Authors: Paci Elena , Lumb Bridget M. , Apps Richard , Lawrenson Charlotte L. , Moran Rosalyn J.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The extinction of fear memories is an important component in regulating defensive behaviors, contributing toward adaptive processes essential for survival. The cerebellar medial nucleus (MCN) has bidirectional connections with the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) and is implicated in the regulation of multiple aspects of fear, such as conditioned fear learning and the expression of defensive motor outputs. However, it is unclear how communication between the MCN and vlPAG changes during conditioned fear extinction.

Methods

We use dynamic causal models (DCMs) to infer effective connectivity between the MCN and vlPAG during auditory cue-conditioned fear retrieval and extinction in the rat. DCMs determine causal relationships between neuronal sources by using neurobiologically motivated models to reproduce the dynamics of post-synaptic potentials generated by synaptic connections within and between brain regions. Auditory event related potentials (ERPs) during the conditioned tone offset were recorded simultaneously from MCN and vlPAG and then modeled to identify changes in the strength of the synaptic inputs between these brain areas and the relationship to freezing behavior across extinction trials. The DCMs were structured to model evoked responses to best represent conditioned tone offset ERPs and were adapted to represent PAG and cerebellar circuitry.

Results

With the use of Parametric Empirical Bayesian (PEB) analysis we found that the strength of the information flow, mediated through enhanced synaptic efficacy from MCN to vlPAG was inversely related to freezing during extinction, i.e., communication from MCN to vlPAG increased with extinction.

Discussion

The results are consistent with the cerebellum contributing to predictive processes that underpin fear extinction.
A very low-carbohydrate diabetes prevention program for veterans with prediabetes: a single-arm mixed methods pilot study
Authors: Griauzde Dina H. , Hershey Cheryl , Michaels Jamie , Evans Richard R. , Richardson Caroline R. , Heisler Michele , Kullgren Jeffrey T. , Saslow Laura R.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

All Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers offer the MOVE! Weight Management Program to help patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a calorie-restricted, low-fat diet and increased physical activity. Yet, most MOVE! participants do not achieve clinically significant weight loss of ≥5%. A carbohydrate-restricted diet may help more Veterans to achieve ≥5% weight loss.

Methods

This was a single-arm explanatory sequential mixed methods pilot study conducted in one VA health care system. Veterans with prediabetes and body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 were invited to participate in a group-based, virtual, very low-carbohydrate Diabetes Prevention Program (VLC-DPP) consisting of 23 sessions over 12 months. Participants were taught to follow a very low-carbohydrate eating pattern, defined as 20–35 grams of net carbohydrates per day. The primary outcomes were measures of feasibility and acceptability, including program uptake and session attendance. Secondary outcomes included change in weight, hemoglobin A1c, lipids, and patient-reported measures of food cravings, stress eating, perceived health status, and motivation. Interviews were conducted at 6 months to identify factors that facilitated or hindered participants’ achievement of ≥5% weight loss.

Results

Among 108 screened Veterans, 21 enrolled in the study (19%), and 18 were included in the analytic cohort. On average, participants attended 12.4/16 weekly sessions and 3.6/8 bimonthly or monthly sessions. At 12 months, mean percent weight loss was 9.4% (SD = 10.7) with 9 participants (50%) achieving ≥5% weight loss. Three factors facilitated achievement of ≥5% weight loss among 10/16 interviewees: (1) enjoyment of low-carbohydrate foods; (2) careful monitoring of carbohydrate intake; and (3) reduced hunger and food cravings. Three factors hindered achievement of ≥5% weight loss among 6/16 interviewees: (1) food cravings, particularly for sweets; (2) challenges with maintaining a food log; and (3) difficulty with meal planning.

Conclusion

A VLC-DPP is feasible and acceptable and shows preliminary efficacy among Veterans with prediabetes. The program’s weight loss effectiveness compared to standard MOVE! should be evaluated in a larger-scale trial. Such a program may be offered in addition to the standard MOVE! program to expand the menu of evidence-based lifestyle counseling options for Veterans.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04881890, identifier NCT04881890.
Superior gluten structure and more small starch granules synergistically confer dough quality for high amylose wheat varieties
Authors: Li Liqun , Liu Zhenzhen , Li Xu , Chu Xiangnan , Yang Weibing , Wang Bingxin , Xie Yanzhou , Li Xuejun
Published: May 2023

High amylose wheat (HAW) has potential health benefits but its dough structure is usually inferior. Wheat dough is a complex mixture and its structure is influenced by the physicochemical properties of gluten and starch. In this study, we investigated the starch granule development, gluten structure, starch properties, pasting, and thermal properties of flour, as well as the rheological properties of dough in wheat variety Xinong 836 with high amylose content (33.57%) and its parents. The results showed that Xinong 836 wheat starch contained more small starch granules, which was consistent with the microstructural results of starch granules in grain filling stage. Moreover, Xinong 836 wheat starch showed highest swelling power and water solubility. Importantly, the flour of Xinong 836 wheat had the highest protein content and wet gluten content and Xinong 836 wheat gluten showed highest β-sheets content and disulfide bond content than its parents Zhengmai 7698 and Xinong 979, which conferring to more compact microscopic networks of dough, thereby contributing to the higher peak viscosity (PV), final viscosity (FV), and setback viscosity (SB) in the flour of Xinong 836. Our finding elucidated that the stability of gluten and properties of starch synergistically affected the pasting and thermal properties of the flour paste, and the presence of more small starch granules contributed to dough with a rather dense structure in HAW Xinong 836. Thus, superior gluten structure and more small starch granules have synergistic effects on enhancing the gluten–starch interaction, thereby contributing to better dough quality.
The expression characteristics of transmembrane protein genes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma through comprehensive analysis of bulk and single-cell RNA sequence
Authors: Ye Chen , Ren Siqian , Sadula Abuduhaibaier , Guo Xin , Yuan Meng , Meng Meng , Li Gang , Zhang Xiaowei , Yuan Chunhui
Published: May 2023

Background

Transmembrane (TMEM) protein genes are a class of proteins that spans membranes and function to many physiological processes. However, there is very little known about TMEM gene expression, especially in cancer tissue. Using single-cell and bulk RNA sequence may facilitate the understanding of this poorly characterized protein genes in PDAC.

Methods

We selected the TMEM family genes through the Human Protein Atlas and characterized their expression by single-cell and bulk transcriptomic datasets. Identification of the key TMEM genes was performed through three machine learning algorithms: LASSO, SVM-RFE and RF-SRC. Then, we established TMEM gene riskscore and estimate its implication in predicting survival and response to systematic therapy. Additionally, we explored the difference and impact of TMEM gene expression in PDAC through immunohistochemistry and cell line research.

Results

5 key TMEM genes (ANO1, TMEM59, TMEM204, TMEM205, TMEM92) were selected based on the single-cell analysis and machine learning survival outcomes. Patients stratified into the high and low-risk groups based on TMEM riskscore, were observed with distinct overall survival in internal and external datasets. Moreover, through bulk RNA-sequence and immunohistochemical staining we verified the protein expression of TMEM genes in PDAC and revealed TMEM92 as an essential regulator of pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

Conclusion

Our study on TMEM gene expression and behavior in PDAC has revealed unique characteristics, offering potential for precise therapeutic approaches. Insights into molecular mechanisms expand understanding of PDAC complexity and TMEM gene roles. Such knowledge may inform targeted therapy development, benefiting patients.
Association between ultrasound BI-RADS signs and molecular typing of invasive breast cancer
Authors: Pan Qiao-Hong , Zhang Zheng-Pin , Yan Liu-Yi , Jia Ning-Rui , Ren Xin-Yu , Wu Bei-Ke , Hao Yu-Bing , Li Zhi-Fang
Published: May 2023

Objective

To explore the correlation between ultrasound images and molecular typing of invasive breast cancer, so as to analyze the predictive value of preoperative ultrasound for invasive breast cancer.

Methods

302 invasive breast cancer patients were enrolled in Heping Hospital affiliated to Changzhi Medical College in Shanxi, China during 2020 to 2022. All patients accepted ultrasonic and pathological examination, and all pathological tissues received molecular typing with immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. The relevance between different molecular typings and ultrasonic image, pathology were evaluated.

Results

Univariate analysis: among the four molecular typings, there were significant differences in tumor size, shape, margin, lymph node and histological grade (P<0.05). 1. Size: Luminal A tumor was smaller (69.4%), Basal -like type tumors are mostly larger (60.9%); 2. Shape: Basal-like type is more likely to show regular shape (45.7%); 3. Margin: Luminal A and Luminal B mostly are not circumscribed (79.6%, 74.8%), Basal -like type shows circumscribed(52.2%); 4. Lymph nodes: Luminal A type tends to be normal (87.8%), Luminal B type,Her-2+ type and Basal-like type tend to be abnormal (35.6%,36.4% and 39.1%). There was no significant difference in mass orientation, echo pattern, rear echo and calcification (P>0.05). Multivariate analysis: Basal-like breast cancer mostly showed regular shape, circumscribed margin and abnormal lymph nodes (P<0.05).

Conclusion

There are differences in the ultrasound manifestations of different molecular typings of breast cancer, and ultrasound features can be used as a potential imaging index to provide important information for the precise diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.
Pre-diagnostic blood biomarkers for adult glioma
Authors: Andrews Lily J. , Davies Philippa , Herbert Christopher , Kurian Kathreena M.
Published: May 2023

Glioma is one of the most common malignant primary brain tumours in adults, of which, glioblastoma is the most prevalent and malignant entity. Glioma is often diagnosed at a later stage of disease progression, which means it is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. Therefore, there is a need for earlier diagnosis of these tumours, which would require sensitive and specific biomarkers. These biomarkers could better predict glioma onset to improve diagnosis and therapeutic options for patients. While liquid biopsies could provide a cheap and non-invasive test to improve the earlier detection of glioma, there is little known on pre-diagnostic biomarkers which predate disease detection. In this review, we examine the evidence in the literature for pre-diagnostic biomarkers in glioma, including metabolomics and proteomics. We also consider the limitations of these approaches and future research directions of pre-diagnostic biomarkers for glioma.
Corylin accelerated wound healing through SIRT1 and PI3K/AKT signaling: a candidate remedy for chronic non-healing wounds
Authors: Xiu Yanghui , Su Yu , Gao Lihua , Yuan Hui , Xu Sennan , Liu Ying , Qiu Yan , Liu Zhen , Li Yuhang
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Chronic non-healing wound is a considerable clinical challenge and research into the discovery of novel pro-healing agents is underway as existing therapeutic approaches cannot sufficiently meet current needs.

Method: We studied the effects of corylin in cell line fibroblasts and macrophages by Western blots, PCR, Flow cytometry assay, Immunofluorescence.

Results: We showed that corylin, a main flavonoid extracted from Psoralea corylifolia L, reduced inflammatory responses, promoted collagen deposition, and accelerated the healing of full-thickness skin wounds in mice. Exploration of the underlying mechanisms showed that corylin activated the PI3K/AKT signaling, leading to fibroblasts’ migration, proliferation, and scratch healing. Corylin also activated sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) signaling, enhanced the deacetylation and cytoplasmic translocation of NF-κB p65, and therefore reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses in macrophages. Furthermore, inhibition of PI3K/AKT and sirtuin 1 pathway with LY294002 and EX527 prevent the therapeutic potency of corylin against chronic wounds.

Conclusion: In summary, our results suggested that corylin may be a candidate for the development of novel pro-healing agents.
Latin American perceptions of fear and exaggeration transmitted by the media with regard to COVID-19: frequency and association with severe mental pathologies
Authors: Mejia Christian R. , Aveiro-Róbalo Telmo Raul , Garlisi Torales Luciana Daniela , Castro Hidalgo Verónica Alejandra Alejandra , Valeriano Jhino , Ibarra-Montenegro David Alfonso , Conde-Escobar Aram , Sánchez-Soto Fernanda , Canaviri-Murillo Yuliana , Oliva-Ponce María , Serna-Alarcón Victor , Vilela-Estrada Martín A. , Arias-Chávez Dennis
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the spread of abundant misinformation by the media, which caused fear and concern.

Objective

To determine the association between the pathologies of the mental sphere and the perceptions of fear and exaggeration transmitted by the media with respect to COVID-19 in Latin America.

Methodology

The present study has an analytical cross-sectional design that is based on a validated survey to measure fear and exaggeration transmitted by the media and other sources (Cronbach's α: 0.90). We surveyed more than 6,000 people, originally from 12 Latin American countries, who associated this perceived exaggeration with stress, depression, and anxiety (measured through DASS-21, Cronbach's α: 0.96).

Results

Social networks (40%) or television (34%) were perceived as the sources that exaggerate the magnitude of the events. In addition, television (35%) and social networks (28%) were perceived as the sources that generate much fear. On the contrary, physicians and health personnel are the sources that exaggerated less (10%) or provoked less fear (14%). Through a multivariate model, we found a higher level of global perception that was associated with whether the participant was older (p = 0.002), had severe or more serious anxiety (p = 0.033), or had stress (p = 0,037). However, in comparison with Peru (the most affected country), there was a lower level of perception in Chile (p < 0.001), Paraguay (p = 0.001), Mexico (p < 0.001), Ecuador (p = 0.001), and Costa Rica (p = 0.042). All of them were adjusted for gender and for those having severe or major depression.

Conclusion

There exists an association between some mental pathologies and the perception that the media does not provide moderate information.
Urban cultural heritage is mentally restorative: an experimental study based on multiple psychophysiological measures
Authors: Wang ShuSheng , Xu Yuqian , Yang Xinyi , Zhang Yuan , Yan Pei , Jiang Yuan , Wang Kai
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Urban cultural heritage sites bear the cultural functions of a city, hold spiritual and cultural value, can recall emotional memories, and serve the cultural leisure activities of the residents. Urban cultural heritage sites can help citizens perceive a sense of belonging and a feeling of relaxation, but whether and to what extent cultural heritage sites affect mental health remains unknown.

Methods

Based on attention restoration theory, multiple research methods are adopted in this study to examine the impact of cultural heritage on human restorative mechanisms. Five representative cultural heritage sites from the cultural heritage-rich city of Xi'an are selected as the research object. In addition, a questionnaire survey and physiological experiments are conducted. Perceived restorative scale, skin conductance response, heart rate variability, and eye movement data while viewing photographs of the cases are collected from the participants.

Results

Results show that cultural heritage sites have psychophysiological restorative effects, which are especially significant in the fascination dimension. Moreover, historical buildings can promote the restorative effects of cultural heritage sites.

Discussion

This finding may lead to new conservation and innovation planning strategies considering the mental health effects of cultural heritage.
Motor cortical functional connectivity changes due to short-term immobilization of upper limb: an fNIRS case report
Authors: Karumattu Manattu Arun , Borrell Jordan A. , Copeland Christopher , Fraser Kaitlin , Zuniga Jorge M.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

A short-term immobilization of one hand affects musculoskeletal functions, and the associated brain network adapts to the alterations happening to the body due to injuries. It was hypothesized that the injury-associated temporary disuse of the upper limb would alter the functional interactions of the motor cortical processes and will produce long-term changes throughout the immobilization and post-immobilization period.

Methods

The case participant (male, 12 years old, right arm immobilized for clavicle fracture) was scanned using optical imaging technology of fNIRS over immobilization and post-immobilization. Pre-task data was collected for 3 min for RSFC analysis, processed, and analyzed using the Brain AnalyzIR toolbox. Connectivity was measured using Pearson correlation coefficients (R) from NIRS Toolbox's connectivity module.

Results

The non-affected hand task presented an increased ipsilateral response during the immobilization period, which then decreased over the follow-up visits. The right-hand task showed a bilateral activation pattern following immobilization, but the contralateral activation pattern was restored during the 1-year follow-up visit. Significant differences in the average connection strength over the study period were observed. The average Connection strength decreased from the third week of immobilization and continued to be lower than the baseline value. Global network efficiency decreased in weeks two and three, while the network settled into a higher efficient state during the follow-up periods after post-immobilization.

Discussion

Short-term immobilization of the upper limb is shown to have cortical changes in terms of activations of brain regions as well as connectivity. The short-term dis-use of the upper limb has shifted the unilateral activation pattern to the bilateral coactivation of the motor cortex from both hemispheres. Resting-state data reveals a disruption in the motor cortical network during the immobilization phase, and the network is reorganized into an efficient network over 1 year after the injury. Understanding such cortical reorganization could be informative for studying the recovery from neurological disorders affecting motor control in the future.
A New Material for Better, Cheaper Solar Energy
Authors: Etgar Lioz
Published: May 2023

In the fight against global warming, it is vital to find ways of producing energy that do not pollute the environment. One of the best solutions for clean energy production is a solar cell, which uses several types of materials to generate electricity from sunlight. In this article, you will learn what a solar cell is, what it is used for, and how it works. I will also present a recent breakthrough discovery in this field: a new, game-changing material called perovskite. This material not only lowers the cost of solar cells, but lets us use solar cells in ways that were never before possible, such as for solar windows; mobile phone and car chargers, and more. Solar energy is clean and non-polluting source of energy. We also do not need to consider how to transport it from one place to another since the sun is everywhere. Additional important point is that the Sun is here and will stay as long as we are here, therefore we just need to use it for our needs and to generate clean energy. Solar cells are the major clean source of energy exists and today we have to find the way how to use it in for different applications.
How does climate-smart agriculture contribute to global climate policy? Bridging the gap between policy and practice
Authors: Freed Elizabeth K. , Schulte Rogier P. O. , Loboguerrero Ana Maria
Published: May 2023

The Paris Agreement, which entered force in 2016, requires involved Parties to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Today, it is well known that global agriculture both contributes to, and is affected by, the changing climate, which calls for an integrated role of farming in climate policy formation. Currently, different efforts aim to increase agricultural productivity, and to mitigate and adapt to climate change through the use of climate-smart agriculture (CSA). However, the efficacy of CSA in contributing to the NDCs has been the subject of debate. In this study, we studied the implementation and alignment of CSA and NDCs in two contrasting case-study non-Annex-I countries that are well known for their efforts in implementing CSA, namely Ethiopia and Colombia. We found that CSA can be a useful approach to reaching the climate goals outlined in the NDCs in the agriculture sector, specifically when used in the planning process to ensure the integration of its elements—adaptation, mitigation, and productivity—in sectoral activity. At the same time, the NDCs, which influence subsequent policy development, also offer an opportunity to increase the usage of CSA as an approach by integrating it more fully into national strategies. However, the incorporation of CSA into national-level climate policies is difficult due to myriad challenges, such as a lack of horizontal and vertical alignment, limited capacity and funding, and highly complex and varying contexts in which the policies are being developed. This research analyzes to what extent CSA is utilized as an approach to fulfilling the NDCs in Ethiopia and Colombia, and identifies entry points to further its use in different contexts.
Bilateral anterior congenital radial head dislocation in adults: a case report and literature review
Authors: Gao Jiahao , Tang Jinshuo , Li Menglong , Li Haitao , Peng Yachen , Wang Chenyu , Liu Tong , Zuo Jianlin
Published: May 2023

Objective

Congenital dislocation of the radial head (CRHD) is a rare condition, with bilateral anterior cases being even less common worldwide. Only a few cases had residual pain after adulthood, even when left untreated. Herein, we describe an adult case of bilateral anterior CRHD with significant pain and snapping during motion. The aim of this study was to report the physical and radiological findings, treatment methods, and short-term outcomes of our case and to review adult CRHD cases in the literature.

Patient

A 21-year-old male patient presented to our hospital with chief complaints of snapping and exacerbated pain during motion in his left elbow.

Diagnoses and interventions

Detailed medical history and physical examination results were recorded. Radiographic examinations were performed on the bilateral elbow, and the diagnosis of bilateral anterior congenital radial head dislocation was confirmed. To relieve the pain and snapping in the left elbow, we performed open reduction and fixation of the radial head with annular ligament reconstruction and ulnar osteotomy. Postoperatively, the elbow rested at 90° flexion with a cast for 16 weeks, and the K-wire was removed on the 10th week; afterward, active functional exercises were performed.

Outcomes

The patient was followed-up for 1 year. The pain in his left elbow was relieved with a reduction in the visual analog scale score from 7 to 3. The range of motion of the left elbow was changed from 0° to 135° (preoperative) to −5° to 120° (postoperative) (extension–flexion) without any snapping. However, restrictions in external rotation have not yet been fully resolved. Further physical rehabilitation is required.

Conclusion

When managing patients with congenital radial head dislocation, the contralateral elbow should be evaluated to identify potential bilateral cases. Surgical options should be discussed with adult patients only for the strong need for functional improvement, although the outcomes may not be fully satisfactory.
Significance of predicted future liver remnant volume on liver failure risk after major hepatectomy: a case matched comparative study
Authors: Piccus R. , Joshi K. , Hodson J. , Bartlett D. , Chatzizacharias N. , Dasari B. , Isaac J. , Marudanayagam R. , Mirza D. F. , Roberts J. K. , Sutcliffe R. P.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Future liver remnant volume (FLRV), a risk factor for liver failure (PHLF) after major hepatectomy (MH), is not routinely measured. This study aimed to evaluate the association between FLRV and PHLF.

Patients and methods

All patients undergoing MH (4 + segments) between 2011 and 2018 were identified from a prospectively maintained single-centre database. Perioperative data were collected for patients with PHLF, who were matched (1:2) with non-PHLF controls. FLRV and FLRV% (i.e., % of total liver volume) were calculated retrospectively from preoperative CT scans using Synapse-3D software, and compared between the PHLF and matched control groups.

Results

Of 711 patients undergoing MH, PHLF occurred in 27 (3.8%), of whom 24 had preoperative CT scans available. These patients were matched to 48 non-PHLF controls, 98% of whom were classified as being at high risk of PHLF on preoperative risk scoring. FLRV% was significantly lower in the PHLF group, compared to matched controls (median: 28.7 vs. 35.2%, p = 0.010), with FLRV% < 30% in 58% and 29% of patients, respectively. Assessment of the ability of FLRV% to differentiate between PHLF and matched controls returned an area under the ROC curve of 0.69, and an optimal cut-off value of FLRV% < 31.5%, which yielded 79% sensitivity and 67% specificity.

Conclusions

FLRV% is significantly predictive of PHLF after MH, with over half of patients with PHLF having FLRV% < 30%. In light of this, we propose that all patients should undergo risk stratification prior to MH, with the high risk patients additionally being assessed with CT volumetry.
Cytosolic Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate Aldolases Modulate Primary Metabolism and Phytohormone Homeostasis in Soybean
Authors: Qiu Zhimin , Bai Mengyan , Kuang Huaqin , Wang Xin , Yu Xiaomin , Zhong Xiangbin , Guan Yuefeng
Published: May 2023

Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase (FBA) is an important catalytic enzyme in carbon metabolism and plays an important role in plant growth and development. Currently, the biological functions of FBA in soybean (Glycine max) remain unknown. In this study, we conducted research on FBA in soybean and identified 14 GmFBA genes. Among them, GmFBAc1 and GmFBAc2 are broadly expressed in different tissues. Double mutant lines of GmFBAc1 and GmFBAc2 were obtained by CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology. Compared with the wild type, the double-gene homozygous mutant gmfbac1gmfbac2 exhibited dwarf seedlings and narrow leaflets, indicating that GmFBAc1 and GmFBAc2 are critical for soybean growth and development. The gmfbac1gmfbac2 metabolomic analysis revealed that compared to the wild type, carbohydrate metabolism was reduced and amino acid metabolism was enhanced in gmfbac1gmfbac2 mutant leaves. Transcriptomic analysis showed that genes in IAA signaling and JA signaling were downregulated and upregulated, respectively. Our study demonstrates an important role of GmFBAc1 and GmFBAc2 in modulating carbon metabolism and phytohormone homeostasis.
Genomic Characterization of Antibiotic-Resistant Campylobacterales Isolated from Chilean Poultry Meat
Authors: Concha-Toloza Macarena , Lopez-Cantillo Mónica , Molina-Mora Jose Arturo , Collado Luis
Published: May 2023

Due to the lack of knowledge about Campylobacterales in the Chilean poultry industry, the objective of this research was to know the prevalence, resistance, and genotypes of Campylobacter, Arcobacter and Helicobacter in 382 samples of chicken meat purchased in Valdivia, Chile. The samples were analyzed using three isolation protocols. Resistance to four antibiotics was evaluated by phenotypic methods. Genomic analyses were performed on selected resistant strains to detect resistance determinants and their genotypes. A total of 59.2% of the samples were positive. Arcobacter butzleri (37.4%) was the most prevalent species, followed by Campylobacter jejuni (19.6%), C. coli (11.3%), A. cryaerophilus (3.7%) and A. skirrowii (1.3%). Helicobacter pullorum (14%) was detected by PCR in a subset of samples. Campylobacter jejuni was resistant to ciprofloxacin (37.3%) and tetracycline (20%), while C. coli and A. butzleri were resistant to ciprofloxacin (55.8% and 2.8%), erythromycin (16.3% and 0.7%) and tetracycline (4.7% and 2.8%), respectively. Molecular determinants were consistent with phenotypic resistance. The genotypes of C. jejuni (CC-21, CC-48, CC-49, CC-257, CC-353, CC-443, CC-446 and CC-658) and C. coli (CC-828) coincided with genotypes of Chilean clinical strains. These findings suggest that besides C. jejuni and C. coli, chicken meat could play a role in the transmission of other pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant Campylobacterales.
Adverse Drug Reactions Relevant to Drug Resistance and Ineffectiveness Associated with Meropenem, Linezolid, and Colistin: An Analysis Based on Spontaneous Reports from the European Pharmacovigilance Database
Authors: Vintila Bogdan Ioan , Arseniu Anca Maria , Butuca Anca , Sava Mihai , Bîrluțiu Victoria , Rus Luca Liviu , Axente Dan Damian , Morgovan Claudiu , Gligor Felicia Gabriela
Published: May 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is considered one of the major threats to public health and is an important factor that influences the patient’s outcome in the intensive care unit. Pharmacovigilance can help raise awareness of potential drug resistance (DR) or ineffectiveness (DI) through adverse drug reaction reports that are submitted to different spontaneous reporting systems. Based on spontaneous Individual Case Safety Reports from EudraVigilance, we conducted a descriptive analysis of adverse drug reactions associated with meropenem, colistin, and linezolid, with a focus on DR and DI. Of the total adverse drug reactions (ADRs) reported for each analyzed antibiotic by 31 December 2022, between 2.38–8.42% and 4.15–10.14% of the reports were related to DR and DI, respectively. A disproportionality analysis was conducted to evaluate the frequency of reporting adverse drug reactions relevant to the DR and DI of the analyzed antibiotics compared to other antimicrobials. Based on the analysis of the collected data, this study underlines the importance of post-marketing drug safety monitoring in raising a warning signal regarding antimicrobial resistance, thereby potentially contributing to the reduction in antibiotic treatment failure in an intensive care setting.
Comparison of Different-Energy-Level Abrasion in Los Angeles and Micro-Deval Apparatuses Using Mass Loss and Rounding of Sediment Particles
Authors: Kuzmanić Tamara , Lebar Klaudija , Mikoš Matjaž
Published: May 2023

During the routing of coarse particles in sedimentary environments, the particles are subjected to abrasion, leading to mass loss and changes in the particles’ morphology. The particles become more spherical, rounded, and smooth. Here, particles’ (quarried dolomite) morphological evolution of three shape aspects (form, roundness, and texture) and the mass decreases obtained in two sets of experiments in two different setups are presented. Abrasion experiments were carried out in cycles. Between cycles, morphological parameters and mass losses were tracked. Abrasion was investigated with consideration of the energy and power the apparatuses used that the material was subjected to, in contrast to the often-used estimated travel distances or duration of the abrasion. The goal was to examine if the two setups can be comparable and inter-transferrable, also to other similar abrasion setups. The experimental equipment, a micro-Deval apparatus and a Los Angeles machine, are standardised and widely used. The applied tests were modified. Morphological/shape parameters were determined using dynamic image analysis. The results of the tests show the influence of machine power (energy introduction rate) on mass loss and morphological change. Los Angeles (high-energy) abrasion resulted in higher mass loss values than micro-Deval (low-energy) abrasion. The mass loss results can be brought to comparable values by a newly introduced mass- and power-dependent coefficient. Low-energy abrasion resulted in faster rounding than high-energy abrasion, whereas form stayed nearly the same. In contrast, form changed rapidly during high-energy abrasion.
Geometrical Tolerances—Separate, Combined or Simultaneous?
Authors: Humienny Zbigniew
Published: May 2023

The 14 geometrical tolerances defined in ISO 1101 are supplemented by the alphanumerical symbols defined in this standard and some other standards. The symbols CZ (combined zone), SZ (separate zones) and SIM (simultaneous requirement), which are crucial for the development of robust measuring programs for coordinate measuring machines, were introduced at different times or in different standards. It is shown that the symbol definitions are not always complete. Sometimes there are no univocal rules for their use, which, in some cases, leads to ambiguity in the specifications given by a designer. It is also pointed out that certain functional requirements can be controlled by different symbols, and it is not always clear if the indications are equivalent. This makes it difficult to understand and interpret a drawing by a metrologist and, thus, may lead to uncertainty in the assessment of product conformity regarding specifications. The identified ambiguities and problems in the specification of functional requirements are shown in several figures. Corrections and additions to current standards are proposed.
Analysis of the Influencing Factors of Grinding Uniformity under Three-Body Coupling Grinding Mode
Authors: Yu Wei , Lv Binghai , Yuan Julong
Published: May 2023

The three-body coupling grinding mode (3B-CGM) of spheres not only guarantees lot diameter variation and batch consistency of precision ball processing on the balling principle but also makes structural control easy and feasible. To assure balling quality under the three-body coupling grinding mode, it must improve dynamic mechanical precision control ability during processing. This study detailed contents covered the following three aspects: (1) The velocity equilibrium equation under the three-body coupling grinding mode was established under ideal conditions. This velocity equilibrium equation was transformed into the velocity equilibrium equation in the form of θ, Ωb, and ωb, thus laying the foundations to analyze the influencing degree of grinding uniformity; (2) On the basis of the velocity equilibrium equation, the characteristics of various sliding states were analyzed. Moreover, the sliding–friction ratio (Sc) was established to analyze the variation laws of the sliding state. The acquired mathematical model of evaluation indexes could realize optimization of the system control precision; (3) A multibody dynamics analysis software, i.e., ADMAS, was applied, and the standard deviation of uniformity of spherical track points in the simulation was created to evaluate influences of subsequent mechanical structural errors, including excessive loads, run-out, the tilt and out-of-roundness of upper and lower grinding discs, the diameter of grinding discs, and the V-shaped groove angle of grinding discs. This study establishes an accurate motion control model, as well as the optimal parameter analysis method. It improved the fine control over motion states. These models and indexes lay theoretical foundations for the realization of approximately ideal grinding effect in practical mass production.
Instability Induced by Random Background Noise in a Delay Model of Landslide Dynamics
Authors: Kostić Srđan , Vasović Nebojša , Todorović Kristina , Prekrat Dragan
Published: May 2023

In the present paper, we propose a new model for landslide dynamics, in the form of the spring-block mechanical model, with included delayed interaction and the effect of the background seismic noise. The introduction of the random noise in the model of landslide dynamics is confirmed by the surrogate data testing of the recorded ambient noise within the existing landslide in Serbia. The performed research classified the analyzed recordings as linear stationary stochastic processes with Gaussian inputs. The proposed mechanical model is described in the form of a nonlinear dynamical system: a set of stochastic delay-differential equations. The solution of such a system is enabled by the introduction of mean-field approximation, which resulted in a mean-field approximated model whose dynamics are qualitatively the same as the dynamics of the starting stochastic system. The dynamics of the approximated model are analyzed numerically, with rather unexpected results, implying the positive effect of background noise on landslide dynamics. Particularly, the increase of the noise intensity requires higher values of spring stiffness and displacement delay for the occurrence of bifurcation. This confirms the positive stabilizing effect of the increase in noise intensity on the dynamics of the analyzed landslide model. Present research confirms the significant role of noise in landslides near the bifurcation point (e.g., creeping landslides).
A Fast Parallel Random Forest Algorithm Based on Spark
Authors: Yin Linzi , Chen Ken , Jiang Zhaohui , Xu Xuemei
Published: May 2023

To improve the computational efficiency and classification accuracy in the context of big data, an optimized parallel random forest algorithm is proposed based on the Spark computing framework. First, a new Gini coefficient is defined to reduce the impact of feature redundancy for higher classification accuracy. Next, to reduce the number of candidate split points and Gini coefficient calculations for continuous features, an approximate equal-frequency binning method is proposed to determine the optimal split points efficiently. Finally, based on Apache Spark computing framework, the forest sampling index (FSI) table is defined to speed up the parallel training process of decision trees and reduce data communication overhead. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm improves the efficiency of constructing random forests while ensuring classification accuracy, and is superior to Spark-MLRF in terms of performance and scalability.
Correction: Sakulsaengprapha et al. Applicability of International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) Scoring System for Autoimmune Hepatitis in Pediatrics. Biology 2023, 12, 479
Authors: Sakulsaengprapha Vorada , Wasuwanich Paul , Naraparaju Gayathri , Korotkaya Yelena , Thawillarp Supharerk , Oshima Kiyoko , Karwowski Christine , Scheimann Ann O. , Karnsakul Wikrom
Published: May 2023

There was a spelling mistake in the original publication [...]
Metabolites Potentially Determine the High Antioxidant Properties of Limosilactobacillus fermentum U-21
Authors: Grishina Yelena V. , Vatlin Aleksey A. , Mavletova Dilara A. , Odorskaya Maya V. , Senkovenko Alexey M. , Ilyasov Rustem A. , Danilenko Valeriy N.
Published: May 2023

Many kinds of Lactobacillus are common occupants of humans’ digestive tract that support the preservation of a balanced microbial environment that benefits host health. In this study, the unique lactic acid bacterium strain Limosilactobacillus fermentum U-21, which was isolated from the feces of a healthy human, was examined for its metabolite profile in order to compare it to that of the strain L. fermentum 279, which does not have antioxidant (AO) capabilities. By using GC × GC−MS, the metabolite fingerprint of each strain was identified, and the data were then subjected to multivariate bioinformatics analysis. The L. fermentum U-21 strain has previously been shown to possess distinctive antioxidant properties in in vivo and in vitro studies, positioning it as a drug candidate for the treatment of Parkinsonism. The production of multiple distinct compounds is shown by the metabolite analysis, demonstrating the unique characteristics of the L. fermentum U-21 strain. According to reports, some of the L. fermentum U-21 metabolites found in this study have health-promoting properties. The GC × GC−MS-based metabolomic tests defined strain L. fermentum U-21 as a potential postbiotic with significant antioxidant potential.