bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Advanced Bacterial Single-cell RNA-seq Reveals Biofilm Heterogeneity
Authors: Pu Yingying , Yan Xiaodan , Liao Hebin , Wang Chenyi , Huang Chun , Zhang Wei , Guo Chunming
Published: April 2024

In contrast to mammalian cells, bacterial cells lack mRNA polyadenylated tails, presenting a hurdle in isolating mRNA amidst the prevalent rRNA during single-cell RNA-seq. This study introduces a novel method, Ribosomal RNA-derived cDNA Depletion (RiboD), seamlessly integrated into the PETRI-seq technique, yielding RiboD-PETRI. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective, equipment-free, and high-throughput solution for bacterial single-cell RNA sequencing. By efficiently eliminating rRNA reads and substantially enhancing mRNA detection rates (up to 92%), our method enables precise exploration of bacterial population heterogeneity. Applying RiboD-PETRI to investigate biofilm heterogeneity, distinctive subpopulations marked by unique genes within biofilms were successfully identified. Notably, PdeI, a marker for the cell-surface attachment subpopulation, was observed to elevate cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP) levels, promoting persister cell formation. Thus, we address a persistent challenge in bacterial single-cell RNA-seq regarding rRNA abundance, exemplifying the utility of this method in exploring biofilm heterogeneity. These findings advance our understanding of biofilm biology and offer insights for targeted therapeutic strategies against persistent bacterial infections.
Scale of sensitivity to bullshit: Development and evidence of validity in adult population
Authors: Ferrer-Urbina Rodrigo , Sepúlveda-Páez Geraldy , Rodríguez-Fuentes Bárbara
Published: April 2024

Research on misinformation has acquired great relevance in the era of social media given the massive social, sanitary and political impacts it has. In this context, fake information without any specific purpose (bullshit) is being spread with ease on social media. It is relevant to identify people's characteristics that could moderate the credibility that they give to misinformation. Sensitivity and receptivity to bullshit has evidence to be a relevant factor. However, despite the interest in this construct, the available instruments are scarce and generated from experimental expositions or ad hoc scales without enough psychometric support, which limits the development of related research. Hence, the purpose of this study was to develop a brief scale to be incorporated in large studies that contains evidence of reliability and validity to measure sensitivity to bullshit in the adult population. We conducted a psychometric study in general population, with a preliminary exploratory phase (n = 118) and a confirmatory phase (n = 603) using ESEM. The final instrument is constituted by 14 items and two dimensions (Sense and Nonsense). We present reliability evidence through McDonald’s omega along with internal validity evidence through ESEM. Furthermore, it has evidence of invariance between men and women and evidence of validity related to other variables (conspirations, paranormal beliefs, naive skepticism). Finally, we discussed the reaches and limitations of this instrument, as well as its possible application in social and health psychology.
Gamma oscillations induced by 40-Hz visual-auditory stimulation for the treatment of acute-phase limb motor rehabilitation after stroke: study protocol for a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fu Wang , Yu Xiaomi , Lai Minhui , Li Yuanli , Yang Yiting , Qin Yong , Yu Min , Wang Feng , Wang Cong
Published: April 2024

• Background
The incidence of hemiparetic limb dysfunction reaches 85% in stroke patients, emerging as a critical factor influencing their daily lives. However, the effectiveness of current rehabilitation treatments is considerably limited, particularly in patients with upper extremity impairment. This study aims to conduct a prospective clinical trial to validate the safety and effectiveness of gamma oscillations induced by 40Hz visual-auditory stimulation in treating post-stroke upper limb dysfunction and to explore the relevant mechanisms.
• Methods
This trial is a prospective, randomized-controlled, double-blind study. All enrolled patients were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group received intervention through 40-Hz visual-auditory stimulation, while the control group underwent intervention with randomly matched visual-auditory stimulation frequencies. The primary efficacy endpoint is the change in motor function. Secondary efficacy endpoints include motor-evoked potentials, cerebral hemodynamic changes, neural network connectivity, and alterations in synaptic-related genes. Safety evaluation included major adverse events, all-cause mortality, and photosensitive epilepsy. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, after a 14-day treatment period, and during subsequent follow-up visits (at 3 months and 6 months) post-treatment. The differences between the two groups will be compared.
• Discussion
This study will evaluate the safety and efficacy of gamma oscillations induced by 40Hz visual-auditory stimulation in treating patients with upper extremity dysfunction after an acute cerebral stroke. Concurrently, we will explore potential mechanisms, including changes in synaptic-related genes and neural network connectivity. This trial is expected to provide evidence for the effectiveness of this new technique in treating upper extremity dysfunction after a stroke and improving patients’ quality of life.
Trial registration
The study protocol has been registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) under registration number ChiCTR2300076579 on October 12, 2023 (https://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojEN.html?proj=207189 ).
Effects of cassava root meal on the growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility, organ and intestinal indices, and slaughter performance of yellow-feathered broilers
Authors: Yang Yajin , Lei Fuhong , Zhang Zubing , Liu Lily , Li Qingqing , Guo Aiwei
Published: April 2024

To investigate the effects of cassava root meal (CRM) on the growth performance, apparent digestibility, and organ and intestinal indices of broilers. A total of 140 one-day-old chicks were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatment groups [control diet (CT), 15% CRM (CRM15), 30% CRM (CRM30), and 45% CRM (CRM45)] with five replicates of seven birds per replicate. The Results showed that the body weight of broilers in the CRM groups was significantly lower than that in the CT group at 21 and 42 days of age, and the average daily gain and average daily feed intake in the CRM group were significantly lower than those in the CT group from 1 to 21 days of age. However, from days 22 to 42, there were no significant differences between CRM15 and CT birds regarding average daily gain and average daily feed intake. but there was no difference in feed conversion rate between the CRM15 and CT groups. At 42 days of age, there were no significant differences between CRM15 and CT birds in in body measurements, the slaughter performance and semi-evisceration ratio. The addition of CRM reduced the proportion of breast and thigh muscles during the feeding period, although we detected no significant difference between CRM15 and CT regarding the apparent digestibility of nutrients. Collectively, our findings indicate that 15% cassava was the optimal proportion for supplementing diets for broiler production.
Follow-up study to explore the relationship between Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and impaired fasting glucose: using the Group- Based Trajectory Modeling
Authors: Liu Xuekui , Peng GangShan , Liu Ran , Zang Xiu , Zou Caiyan , Sun Haojie , Zhu Qian , Geng Houfa , liang Jun
Published: April 2024

Background and objective: Previous studies have reported an association between neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG), but the conclusions were controversial. A follow-up study in the real world can observe the occurrence of diseases and verify the relationship between NLR and IFG.
Methods: A total of 1,168 patients without prediabetes or T2DM were followed up for six years. At baseline, participants' NLR levels, fasting plasma glucose and other clinical characteristics were recorded. During the follow-up period, NLR levels and the prevalence of IFG were recorded. Ultimately, 45 individuals were lost to follow-up, leaving 1,123 participants for analysis. Using Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM), the sample was divided into three groups.
Results: The prevalence of IFG in the three groups was 12.1%, 19.4%, and 20.85%, respectively. Compared with the low-level NLR group, the hazard ratio of IFG in the moderate-level NLR group and high-level NLR group were 1.628 (1.109-2.390) and 1.575 (1.001-2.497), respectively, after adjusting for sex, age, and other variables. There was a significant interaction effect of BMI and NLR on the risk of IFG (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: In this real-world follow-up study, we observed a positive association between NLR and the risk of IFG, with this relationship being exacerbated by obesity status.
Evaluation of machine learning pipeline for blood culture outcome prediction on prospectively collected data in Western Australian emergency department
Authors: McFadden Benjamin , Inglis Timothy , Celenza Antonio , Reynolds Mark
Published: April 2024

Bloodstream infections (BSIs) are particularly problematic in the emergency department (ED) of hospitals, where patients often present with undifferentiated illness, and the presence of BSI is hard to detect. Identifying whether a patient needs a blood culture (BC) test performed is one component of this challenge with implications for diagnostic efficiency, stewardship, and unnecessary resource expenditure. This paper explores the validation of previously developed machine learning (ML) models for BC outcome prediction using a prospectively collected ED patient dataset. An ML pipeline containing models previously trained using complete blood count (CBC), white blood cell differential (DIFF), and cell population data (CPD) generated by Sysmex XN-2000 haematology analysers was further evaluated using prospectively collected data containing patient sample results from the ED at Sir Charles Gairdner hospital (SCGH), Perth, Western Australia. Blood samples used to produce CBC,DIFF, and CPD were obtained at the same time as BC samples. There were 64 samples from 63 unique patients. 54 of those samples were associated with negative BC results, and 10 with positive BC results. We evaluated previously developed XGBoost (XG) and Random Forest (RF) ML models for positive BC outcome prediction. The RF and XG models obtained area under the receiver operating characteristic curve scores of 0.870 and 0.841 on the ED dataset. These results provide the foundation for further validation and shadow deployments of BC outcome prediction models in clinical settings. ML models,data, and code for reproducing the results presented in this work is provided in an open-source repository.
Estimation of cardinal temperatures for germination among Turgenia litifolia (L.) Hoffm and Datura stramonium L seeds.
Authors: Zeidali Ehsan , Hosseini Mojtaba , Alizadeh Yaser
Published: April 2024

Modeling is necessary to better understanding of weed management. For this aim, Turgenia litifolia (L.) Hoffm and Datura stramonium L. as two important and problematic weeds germination in wheat and corn fields were compared under temperatures of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35°C in the germinator, controlled condition included the lighting (12.12 hours and the relative humidity with 30% as of two separate designs in completely randomized design with four replications in the Faculty of Agriculture of Ilam University. Two experiments were carried out twice, the data of the experiments were pooled for analysis, as there was no time-by treatment interaction. Four models, segmented, dent-like, beta and modified beta were used to describe germination changes with respect to temperature. The results showed that four models were significant for T. litifolia germination, and all models were significant on D. stramonium except the beta model. In T. litifolia, suitable germination models were dent-like and beta models. According to dent-like model, base temperature of T. litifolia; was Zero, the first optimum temperature; 15 degrees, optimal second; 29.5 degrees and maximum germination was estimated at 35 degrees. The suitable model for D. stramonium germination was also the segmented model. According the segmented model, the base temperature, optimum temperature and maximum germination were estimated to be zero, 29.7 and 35°C, respectively. Generally, experiment results showing that, for T. litifolia weed management in wheat field, appropriate time for herbicide application is in the range of 15.5–29°C and the appropriate time for D. stramonium management in corn field is mechanical, herbicide application or integrated weed management at time it is 29.7 degrees.
Dynamics of changes in dry and wet periods based on monthly precipitation in Western Polesie, Poland
Authors: GRZYWNA ANTONI , LIPIŃSKA HALINA
Published: April 2024

In the article, daily rainfall values were used to analyse water conditions in Western Polesie. The SPI standardized precipitation index was calculated based on weighted averages from 1986–2015 for various periods. Based on time sequences for periods of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, periods with different moisture levels were distinguished. It has been shown that the average frequency of dry and wet periods is 27.2 and 31.4%, respectively. Four intense drought periods were identified: 1990–1993, 2002–2006, 2007–2008, and 2019–2020. Drought was most often associated with deficient monthly and annual rainfall, 20 and 450 mm, respectively. Three wet periods were identified in 1997–1999, 2009–2011, 2013-14. Excess water was associated with high monthly rainfall above 150 mm. In the 21st century, there has been a statistically significant increase in the frequency of dry and wet periods and of longer duration.
Cr12MoV Mold Steel Milling Vibration Characteristics and Experimental Research
Authors: ZHAO Changlong , MA Hongnan , JIA Xiaoyu , ZHAO Qinxiang , ZHANG Zihao , DU Weilong , YU Zice , ZHANG Haifeng
Published: April 2024

This article sets up a three-dimensional model of the milling tool system, carries out modal analysis of the milling cutter with different overhangs of the tool system, and investigates the vibration patterns under different modes; conducts milling experiments on Cr12MoV mold steel, uses acceleration sensor equipment to measure the tool amplitude in the X, Y and Z directions during milling machining, and simulates and analyzes the amplitude in the three directions by response surface method, and establishes a regression model respectively, and uses ANOVA to verify the significance of the model, and finally obtains the optimal cutting parameters. A regression model was developed to verify the significance of the model using analysis of variance, and finally, the optimal cutting parameters were obtained. This study helps to further understand the interrelationship of various factors in the cutting process, provides positive theoretical analysis and practical guidance for metal cutting machining, provides strong support for improving machining efficiency and ensuring the quality of workpieces, and provides a useful reference for engineering practice in the field of precision machining.
Protective effects of Silibinin and cinnamic acid against paraquat-induced lung toxicity in rats: impact on oxidative stress, PI3K/AKT pathway and miR-193a signaling
Authors: Fouad Basma M. , Abdel-Ghany A. A. , Kandeil Mohamed A. , Ibrahim Ibrahim T.
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the primary determinants of pulmonary fibrosis. It was discovered that antioxidants can ameliorate pulmonary fibrosis caused by prolonged paraquat (PQ) exposure. However, research into the precise mechanisms by which antioxidants influence the signaling pathways implicated in pulmonary fibrosis induced by paraquat is still insufficient. This research utilized a rat model of pulmonary fibrosis induced by PQ to examine the impacts of Silibinin (Sil) and cinnamic acid (CA) on pulmonary fibrosis, with a specific focus on pro-fibrotic signalling pathways and ROS-related autophagy.
Methods
Lung injury induced by paraquat was demonstrated to be associated with oxidative stress and inflammation of the lungs, downregulated (miR-193a) and upregulated PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling lung tissues. Expression levels of miR-193a were determined with quantitative real-time PCR, protein level of protein kinase B (Akt), phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (PI3K) were determined by western blot analysis. Hydroxyproline levels (HYP) and Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were measured by ELISA, malondialdehyde(MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAO), glutathione peroxidase (GSH) and catalase and were measured in lung tissue homogenates colorimetrically using spectrophotometer.
Results
Long-term exposure to paraquat resulted in decreased PI3K/AKT signalling, decreased cell autophagy, increased oxidative stress, increased and helped pulmonary fibrosis formation. Silibinin and cinnamic acid also decreased oxidative stress by increasing autophagy and miR-193a expression, which in turn decreased pulmonary fibrosis. These effects were associated by low TGF- β1.
Conclusions
Silibinin and cinnamic acid inhibited PQ-induced PI3K/AKT by stimulating miR-193-a expression, thus attenuating PQ- induced pulmonary fibrosis.
Hyperosmotic Sisomicin Infusion: A Mouse Model for Hearing Loss
Authors: Maraslioglu-Sperber Ayse , Blanc Fabian , Heller Stefan , Benkafadar Nesrine
Published: April 2024

Hearing impairment arises from the loss of either type of cochlear sensory hair cells. Inner hair cells act as primary sound transducers, while outer hair cells enhance sound-induced vibrations within the organ of Corti. Established models, such as systemic administration of ototoxic aminoglycosides, yield inconsistent and variable hair cell death in mice. Overcoming this limitation, we developed a method involving surgical delivery of a hyperosmotic sisomicin solution into the posterior semicircular canal of adult mice. This procedure induced rapid and synchronous apoptotic demise of outer hair cells within 14 hours, leading to irreversible hearing loss. The combination of sisomicin and hyperosmotic stress caused consistent and synergistic ototoxic damage. Inner hair cells remained intact until three days post-treatment, after which deterioration in structure and number was observed, culminating in cell loss by day seven. This robust animal model provides a valuable tool for otoregenerative research, facilitating single-cell and omics-based studies toward exploring preclinical therapeutic strategies.
Elucidating fungal etiology and multi-drug resistance in oculomycosis and bioprospecting native medical plants as candidates for antifungal therapy
Authors: Badu Kingsley , Boateng Abigail Oforiwaa , Junior Isaiah Osei Duah , Akuffo Kwadwo Owusu , Gyimah Lord
Published: April 2024

Despite their debilitating impact on eye health, it is unclear the fungal pathogens implicated in oculomycosis; and the efficacy of clinically used antifungal therapy among ophthalmic clinicians, especially from Ghana, remains enigmatic. Here we use a comprehensive clinical and laboratory data to fill this evidence gap. About ten percent (9.36%) of the ocular specimen was positive for fungal culture with the predominant fungal etiology being Candida albicans. Multi-drug resistance was observed for clinically utilized antifungal agents; amphotericin B, and fluconazole, itraconazole, terbinafine. Alternatively, ethanolic extracts of native medicinal plants, Cinnamomum verum and Syzygium aromaticum, demonstrated potent fungistatic and fungicidal activity against clinically recovered ocular fungal isolates including the common implicating etiology, Candida albicans. Overall, this study broadens our current understanding of the pathogenesis of oculomycosis, and the repercussions of clinically available antifungal treatment therapy. Leveraging on the results of the preliminary medicinal plant screening, we propose further characterization and mechanistic studies to illuminate the bioactive ingredient in plant extracts and their potential mechanism of action for clinical translation.
Coherently excited superresolution using intensity product of phase-controlled quantum erasers via polarization-basis projection measurements
Authors: Ham Byoung
Published: April 2024

Recently, the delayed-choice quantum eraser has been applied for coherently excited superresolution using phase-controlled projection measurements of laser light to overcome the diffraction limit in classical physics as well as to solve the limited photon number of the N00N state in quantum physics. Unlike other methods of phase-controlled superresolution in a noninterferometric system, the proposed method is for the intensity products between phase-controlled quantum erasers, resulting in superresolution compatible with the most conventional sensing metrologies. Here, a general scheme of the phase-controlled quantum eraser-based superresolution is proposed and its general solution is derived for an arbitrary Nth-order intensity correlation, where the superresolution shows the photonic de Broglie wave-like quantum feature. Furthermore, phase quantization of the superresolution is discussed to better understand quantum mechanics.
Effect of Tropic Level and Metamorphosis on the Stable Isotope Discrimination of Ectropis grisescens
Authors: Wadood Syed , Li Xin , Mei Hanyi , Li Chunlin , Nie Jing , Khan Wahab , Shao Shengzhi , Tang Meijun , Rogers Karyne , Yuan Yuwei
Published: March 2024

Light stable isotopes (δ13C, δ15N, δ2H, and δ18O) of Ectropis grisescens (a leaf-eating pest) were measured at different developmental stages. Isotope values of larval instars, pupae, and adult tissues were determined to understand fractionation patterns at different life stages and to evaluate the tropic shift from food to insect to excrement. The insect’s δ13C tissue values were significantly enriched relative to its diet, whereas insect feces were significantly depleted compared to dietary input. Similarly, δ15N values of the pest tissue were significantly enriched compared to its diet and this enrichment was most likely due to protein quality since both insufficient protein and a high dietary protein intake have the potential to enrich δ15N of bulk body tissues by increasing the protein turnover. The δ2H and δ18O values also showed significant fractionation compared to diet. The δ2H tropic enrichment from plant to larvae and subsequent decrease from larvae to moth is likely due to net enrichment from plant to Ectropis grisescens. Significant correlations between diet, pest tissues and feces were observed for most isotopes. In addition, the metamorphosis of Ectropis grisescens significantly changed the stable isotope (δ13C, δ15N, δ2H, and δ18O) values of the resulting moth.
On the Utility of Large Language Model Embeddings for Revolutionizing Semantic Data Harmonization in Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Salimi Yasamin , Adams Tim , Ay Mehmet Can , Balabin Helena , Jacobs Marc , Hofmann-Apitius Martin
Published: April 2024

Data Harmonization is an important yet time-consuming process. With the recent popularity of applications using Large Language Models (LLMs) due to their high capabilities in text understanding, we investigated whether LLMs could facilitate data harmonization for clinical use cases. To evaluate this, we created PASSIONATE, a novel Parkinson's disease (PD) Common Data Model (CDM) as a ground truth source for pairwise cohort harmonization using LLMs. Additionally, we extended our investigation using an existing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) CDM. We computed text embeddings based on two LLMs to perform automated cohort harmonization for both AD and PD. We additionally compared the results to a baseline method using fuzzy string matching to determine the degree to which the semantic understanding of LLMs can improve our harmonization results. We found that mappings based on text embeddings performed significantly better than those generated by fuzzy string matching, reaching an average accuracy of over 80% for almost all tested PD cohorts. When extended to a further neighborhood of possible matches, the accuracy could be improved to up to 97%. Our results suggest that LLMs can be used for automated harmonization with a high accuracy that can potentially be improved in the future by applying domain-trained models.
Application of a hand-held supplementary light for extending field-based net ecosystem exchange carbon flux measurements in low light conditions
Authors: Heinemeyer Andreas , Holmes Thomas , Jones Anthony , Liu Bing , Daff Jason
Published: April 2024

Manual chamber-based carbon flux measurements are frequently used to capture terrestrial carbon cycle processes over vegetated areas. Light response curves, achieved by sequential shading, enable obtaining model parameters of light compensation points, maximum photosynthetic rates and dark respiration. However, light conditions in the field are often limited, especially in darker seasons and areas with frequent cloud and fog, which questions the robustness of model parameters. Artificial light therefore offers a crucial way to assess and address these potential limitations, especially recent advances in LED lights with improved wavelength spectra and intensity. However, previous LED lights were fixed on the chamber top, blocking out natural light, heavy and with a high power demand unsuitable for remote field deployment. Here we tested a handheld LED flashlight as a flexible, low power and low weight option. We investigated the wavelength spectrum and photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) output under controlled conditions and applied it under light limiting field conditions. Carbon uptake benefited from the increased PAR range without affecting chamber temperatures, and whilst there was overall good agreement for model parameters between with and without supplementary light, model fit was improved by the wider light range for situations with higher variability.
Progressive Encephalomyelitis with Rigidity and Myoclonus: A pediatric Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Li Yu , Wang Jingwen , Chen Qihui , Wu Ruohao , Luo Xiangyang , He Zhanwen
Published: April 2024

Progressive Encephalomyelitis with Rigidity and Myoclonic (PERM) is a serious life-threatening autoimmune disease characterized by rigidity, muscle pain spasm, deep and shallow sensory impairment, brainstem spinal cord symptoms, autonomic dysfunction, sudden spontaneous, stimulus-induced myoclonus. PERM demonstrates varied initial symptoms and involves the extremities, brainstem, spinal cord, and autonomic nerves. Most cases show significant improvement with immunotherapy. PERM is rarely seen in children. We report an 11-year-old boy with PERM. His presentation began with abdominal pain and skin itching, followed by dysuria and urinary retention, truncal and limb rigidity, spasms of the trunk and limbs during sleeping, deep and shallow sensory disturbances, and dysphagia. Tissue-based assay (TBA) demostrated positive cell-like fluorescence in neuronal dendrites of the hippocampus and cerebellum’s Purkinje cells. He had fluctuating clinical response despite immunotherapy (immunoglobulin, dexamethasone and plasmapheresis). In the fifth month since admission, he showed gradual and persistent clinical improvement after one month of stronger immunotherapy treatment of intravenous immunoglobulin, steroids and rituximab. He was discharged with motor function gradually recovered and sensory impairment disappeared after 7 months of hospitalization. During follow-up so far, only the mobility disorder from the hip to the ankle joint remains. Our patient is hidden on the onset of the disease. At first, he appeared autonomic nervous dysfunction with abdominal pain and itchy skin, and gradually muscle tonics, which can easily lead to misdiagnosis. We summarized the diagnosis and treatment of a PERM patient, and also summarized the literature review of the report of child PERM patients to raise the awareness of pediatric neurologists. More comprehension of this disease is required to improve the early diagnosis and effects of treatment, as well as to improve the prognosis.
Morphological variation between queens, workers and drones of Vespa orientalis L. (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Vespinae)
Authors: Shaheen Ahmed Ali , Bedewy Mohammad Mohammad , Metwally Mahmoud mokhtar
Published: April 2024

Large-sized wasp, Vespa orientalis L., is a dangerous and widespread enemy to bee hives in Egypt and other countries of the world. There are eleven synonyms known as subspecies, colour forms or so called aberrations of Vespa orientalis, four of them are described from Egypt. Inadequate investigations have been used to identified these colour forms, especially depending upon colour features, without accreditation on other certainty characters such as male genitalia. Morphological with morphometric traits can help in verifying and distinguishing between the subspecies or other forms within individual species. In our study, some body structures of V. orientalis early queens, workers and drones from Egypt were measured including head length and width, mandibles length and width, antennal length, forewing length and width, hindwing length and width, number of hamuli, hind femora length, hind tibiae length and stinger. The result showed that the mean values were; queen head length 6.45 ± 0.03 and 4.54 ± 0.03 for drones, queen head width 6.97 ± 0.03, and 5.08 ± 0.04 for drones, antennal length is longer for drones 10.87 ± 0.07, slightly shorter for queens 10.08 ± 0.08, and distinctly shorter for workers 8.54 ± 0.05, forewing length 24.21 ± 0.12 for queens, and 19.89 ± 0.16 for workers, hindwing length is 14.20 ± 0.19 for queens, and 12.32 ± 0.09 for workers and drones. Some of these characters are effective to discriminating the individual species and can be utilized to emphasized the identification the original species of Vespa orientalis L.
Sedentary behaviour may cause differences in physical outcomes and activities of daily living in older cardiovascular disease patients participating in phase I cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Izawa Kazuhiro , Ishihara Kodai , Kanejima Yuji , Kitamura Masahiro , Ogura Asami , Kubo Ikko , Oka Koichiro , Brubaker Peter , Nagashima Hitomi , Tawa Hideto , Matsumoto Daisuke , Shimizu Ikki
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the rate of high sedentary behaviour (SB) time and differences in physical outcomes (PO) and activities of daily living (ADL) based on SB time in hospitalized older cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients undergoing phase I cardiac rehabilitation (CR).
Methods
Older CVD patients were enroled from October 2020 to September 2023 and were divided into the high SB group (≥480 min/day) and low SB group (<480 min/day). The study compared patients’ clinical characteristics, usual gait speed (GS), and Five Times Sit to Stand Test (FTSST) time as indices of PO. Motor, cognitive, and total Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores were used as indices of ADL and compared between groups using analysis of covariance.
Results
Final analysis included 402 patients (mean age: 76.7 years, female: 35.3%). The high SB group included 48.5% of the study patients. After adjustment for baseline characteristics, GS (0.80±0.27 vs. 0.96±0.23 m/sec, p <0.001) was lower and FTSST (11.31±4.19 vs. 9.39±3.11 sec, p <0.001) was higher in the high SB group versus the low SB group. Motor (85.82±8.82 vs. 88.09±5.04 points, p <0.001), cognitive (33.32±2.93 vs. 34.04±2.24 points, p <0.001), and total FIM (119.13±10.66 vs. 122.02±6.30 points, p <0.001) scores were significantly lower in the high SB group versus low SB group after adjustment.
Conclusions
In older CVD patients in phase I CR, SB time might influence PO and ADL at discharge. It is thus necessary to consider the amount of SB time spent by these patients during daily life while hospitalized.
Terahertz photoconductive switch performance dependence on antenna shape
Authors: Nevinskas Ignas , Kamarauskas Mindaugas , Geižutis Andrejus , Kovalevskij Vitalij , Bičiūnas Andrius , Urbanowicz Andrzej , Norkus Ričardas , Ikamas Kęstutis
Published: April 2024

Terahertz photoconductive switch antennas come in many designs that appear to be hardly ever sensibly selected. The femtosecond laser induced carriers generate a continuum at terahertz frequencies that require a low Q factor antenna design achievable through ohmic losses. On the one hand, if a broadband terahertz spectrum is desired, a simple coplanar stripline configuration with narrow arm width, i.e. a short dipole, is sufficient. On the other hand, the practical antenna resonance effect raises fabrication and engineering challenges, while the studied antenna shapes provide only a slight improvement to the emission efficiency. These findings are supported by the terahertz emission and detection characterization of a dozen antenna designs, and the results are discussed through the classical Drude-Lorentz conductivity framework.
Emission prediction of oil-type gas out of the coal seam floor based on integration of advanced electrical resistivity exploration techniques with the GA-BP
Authors: Mingyao WEI , Kang GAO , Haoqi HUANGPU , Chunqin LU , KONG Rui
Published: April 2024

Oil-type gas disasters are a recurrent concern in coal-oil-gas coexistence mines. To proactively anticipate the volume of oil-type gas emissions from floor rocks, this study introduces an investigative methodology to forecast the geological conditions of floor rocks ahead of the roadway face, leveraging the Direct Current (DC) method. The assessment of electrical resistance in rock formations, widely employed for identifying geological characteristics, serves as the basis for proposing a geological anomaly index derived from rock resistivity. This index effectively characterizes the stability of rock strata, providing an indirect assessment of fracture development. Serving as a real-time geological detection index for floor rocks located 100 meters ahead of the roadway face, it enhances predictive capabilities. Moreover, when amalgamated with parameters such as floor rock thickness and permeability, the paper presents simulations of oil-type gas emissions under varying geological conditions. Subsequently, an adaptive optimization of the Back Propagation (BP) neural network is achieved through the Genetic Algorithm Back Propagation Neural Network (GA-BP) model to evaluate the quantity of oil-type gas emissions in roadways. This advanced real-time prediction method is applied in Huangling coal mining to forecast oil-type gas emissions from the floor rocks in the excavation roadway area. Results demonstrate a congruence with field monitoring outcomes, affirming the accuracy of the predictive model. In conclusion, this advanced real-time prediction technique enables continuous monitoring and real-time forecasting of oil-type gas emissions ahead of roadways. This capability facilitates the implementation of specific measures for pre-extraction in gas disaster prevention and control, thereby ensuring the safety of coal mine production. Furthermore, the versatility of this advanced real-time prediction method extends to early warnings of rock mass instability-related disasters. Through a comprehensive understanding of subsurface conditions, continuous monitoring of changes, and the application of predictive models, timely actions can be undertaken to mitigate risks and uphold safety standards.
Thirst discomfort and its influencing factors after spinal surgery: an observational study
Authors: Gao Menghui , Ning Ning , Fu Zhongmin , Chen Jiali , Li Peifang , Lei Lei
Published: April 2024

Objective
To investigate the factors contributing to thirst discomfort in spinal surgery patients.
Methods
This study included patients who underwent spinal surgery in the ****** from February 2022 to July 2022. Data were obtained from questionnaires and electronic medical records. Spearman correlation analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney and the Kruskal-Wallis H rank sum tests. The contributing factors to thirst discomfort were analyzed by stepwise regression.
Results
A total of 303 spinal surgery patients were included in the analysis. The thirst discomfort score 2 h after surgery was 10 (7–12). Preoperative factors contributing to thirst at this time point included Kolcaba’s General Comfort Questionnaire score (B=-0.36, p = 0.003), use of statins (B = 1.78, p = 0.004), and the type of admission (B=-0.94, p = 0.024). Intraoperative factors were the length of surgery (B = 0.38, p = 0.0032), use of α2 adrenergic agonists (B = 0.63, p = 0.016), and endotracheal intubation (B=-2.79, p = 0.030). Postoperative factors were the level of thirst at 2 h (B = 1.72, p < 0.001) and indoor relative humidity level at 2 h (B=-0.24, p = 0.043).
Glycolysis-related genes predict prognosis and indicate immune microenvironment features in gastric cancer
Authors: Xu Lu , Liu Jin , An Yuanqing , Zhou Lei , Sun Hui , Xu Zhen , Wang Deqiang , Liang Zhanwen , Xu Caihua , Wang Bingyi , Li Wei
Published: April 2024

Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death. Glycolysis plays a pivotal role in tumor microenvironment (TME) reprogramming. This study assessed the roles of glycolysis-related genes (GRGs) in predicting prognosis and indicating the immune microenvironment features in gastric cancer patients.
Methods
Gene expression data and clinical data of GC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) cohort and validated using datasets acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). A total of 326 GRGs were identified from the Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB). Subtypes of GC were delineated via consensus clustering based on GRG expression. A multigene risk score model was developed using multivariate Cox regression analysis. The CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE algorithms were used to evaluate the immune microenvironment. To probe the biological function of critical genes, wound healing assays, transwell invasion assays, and MTT assays were used.
Results
The patients were divided into two groups, namely, the metabolic subtype (cluster A) and immune subtype (cluster B), based on the expression patterns of the GRGs. Patients in cluster B had a worse prognosis. A risk score model based on the expression of six GRGs, including ME1, PLOD2, NUP50, CXCR4, SLC35A3, and SRD35A3, could predict patient prognosis. Knockdown of CXCR4 significantly attenuated the glycolytic capacity, as well as the migration, invasion, and proliferation of GC cells. Interestingly, although both the immune subtype (cluster B) and high-risk groups had unfavorable prognosis, these two cohorts had favorable immune microenvironment and increased expression of immune checkpoint genes. We found that high expression of CXCR4 and low expression of ME1 were positively correlated with the infiltration of CD8 + T cells and the response to treatment with an anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor.
Conclusions
In the present study, we identified that the expression patterns of GRGs could be used to predict the prognosis of GC patients and may be helpful in guiding clinical treatment decisions.
Study protocol: Exploring the use of Family Health Histories in the African American community to reduce health disparities in Flint, Michigan
Authors: Key Kent D. , Lewis Lena , Blanchard Courtney , Sikorskii Alla , Patel Minal , Lucas Todd , Akintobi Tabia Henry , Bailey Sarah , Loney E. Hill , Johnson Jennifer E.
Published: April 2024

Background
Health disparities are costly and preventable differences in disease progression that disproportionately affect minority communities such as African Americans. Practices to reduce health disparities can be rooted in prevention, particularly through screening tools. Family Health History tools are preventative screening mechanisms meant to explore family history to better understand how an individual’s health can potentially be predicted or impacted. These tools are underutilized in the African American community. Contributions to this underutilization include a lack of cultural tailoring in the tools, a lack of health literacy in community members, and a lack of effective health communication. The Family Health History Study will create a culturally appropriate Family Health History toolkit to increase family health history utilization and ultimately decrease health disparities.
Methods
The proposed sample will be composed of 195 African American adults ages 18 + who live in Genesee County, Michigan. The study consists of two phases: the development phase and the randomized pilot study phase. The goal of the development phase (n = 95) is to explore how Family Health History toolkits can be modified to better serve the African American community using a community based participatory research approach and to create a culturally tailored family health history toolkit. In the pilot study phase, 100 participants will be randomized to the culturally tailored toolkit or the current standard Family Health History toolkit. Outcomes will include feasibility and acceptability of the intervention.
Discussion
This study will result in a culturally appropriate Family Health History tool that is co-developed with community members that can be utilized by African American adults to better understand their family health histories.
Trial Registration
Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05358964 Date: May 5, 2022
Comparative Analysis of Generative Pre-Trained Transformers Responses to Coastal Ecosystem Questions: Implications for GenAI in Environmental Education
Authors: Gopal Sucharita , Toshniwal Dhruv , Kaufman Les Kaufman , Deyle Ethan , Pitts Joshua
Published: April 2024

This study presents a comparative analysis of two leading large language models (LLMs), Google’s Bard, powered by the Gemini model, and OpenAI’s ChatGPT 4.0, in the context of their responses to coastal ecosystem science undergraduate student education. Fifty questions related to coastal ecosystem management were posed to each LLM. Expert assessments evaluated the responses of the LLMs based on five key metrics: accuracy, relevance, depth, creativity, and semantic clarity. Knowledge graphs provided a structured framework for assessing and visualizing the AI responses. The analysis identified the strengths and weaknesses of each LLM in addressing complex environmental issues. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of LLMs’ potential applications in environmental science education and scientific communication. This study acknowledges limitations, such as the inherent subjectivity of expert assessments and the potential for bias within the knowledge graphs used for evaluation. Future research directions include investigating the effectiveness of LLMs in personalized learning environments and exploring their potential for generating educational content tailored to diverse audiences.
Terahertz characterization Microcellular Polyethylene Terephthalate (MCPET) across broad temperature range
Authors: Uchida Hirohisa , Miyamoto Katsuhiko , Takeya Kei
Published: April 2024

The optical properties of Microcellular Polyethylene Terephthalate (MCPET) towards light and terahertz waves were compared. Within the measurement range of 0.3–1.3 THz and 30 K to room temperature, the refractive index remained nearly constant at approximately 1.15, close to 1. It was observed that MCPET with a thickness of 0.5 mm transmits over 70% of terahertz waves, while blocking more than 99.9% of light in the 300–2000 nm range. These findings present significant advantages for the design of optical devices using MCPET, highlighting its potential for selective transparency and high opacity in specific applications.
A Method for Analyzing the Domain Structure in Magnetic Powder Microparticles
Authors: Aliev Shamil Minkailovich , Ibaev Zhavrail Gadzhievich , Aliev Minkail Shamilevich
Published: April 2024

A method for analyzing the domain structure in magnetic powder microparticles based on the Mössbauer effect is proposed. This method has been experimentally verified for gadolinium ferrite-garnet (Gd3Fe5O12) powder particles 40 ± 5 µm in diameter in the vicinity of the magnetic compensation point Tcm =286 K. It is shown that ferrite particles are single-domain near Tcm and pass to the multidomain state while moving away from Tcm.
Accelerated theta-burst stimulation over the motor cortex improves social communication impairment in children with autism spectrum disorder: An open-label trial
Authors: Tan Hangyu , Xu Mingyu , Deng Lin , Zhang Lingli , Wang Shaowen , Cao Miao , Yuan Ti-Fei , Li Fei
Published: April 2024

Background
Social communication impairment (SCI) is a defining feature in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but remains difficult to treat. Emerging evidence suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a potential method for treating this aspect of ASD, but the stimulation protocols used vary widely, and limited effects of these protocols on SCI have been reported, particularly in younger children with ASD. Thus, we developed an accelerated rTMS protocol and investigated its feasibility, efficacy and potential neural mechanism for the treatment of SCI in ASD children.
Methods
In the open-label study, thirty children aged 4–10 with ASD received accelerated theta-burst stimulation (a-cTBS) over the motor cortex for 5 consecutive days. Before and after the intervention, all participants underwent a battery of clinical assessments regarding SCI, and 26 of them cooperated and participated in the collection of electroencephalogram (EEG) data. The primary clinical efficacy outcome was the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) score.
Results
All participants completed the trial and the adverse effects were low-incidence and mild. Repeat measurement analysis showed a significant improvement in the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) score with a mean decrease of 12.77 (95% CI 7.58 to 17.95; P < .001) between pre-intervention and post-intervention, and 16.60 (95% CI 11.47 to 21.73; P < .001) between pre-intervention and one-month follow-up, respectively, and the improvement was associated with the observed EEG signal changes of right temporoparietal region. Paired tests showed significant increases in language-related indicators scores from baseline to the one-month follow-up (all P < 0.05).
Conclusions
This study indicated that a-cTBS over the motor cortex is a safe, feasible and efficient protocol for treating SCI in children with ASD, and provided further evidence for the association of the motor cortex with the social/language network.
Trial registration
The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05472870) on 22th July, 2022.