bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment Advances for Acne Vulgaris: The Scientific Role of Cannabinoids
Authors: Ferreira Inês , Lopes Carla M. , Amaral Maria Helena
Published: January 2024

Acne vulgaris is a prevalent dermatological disorder that impacts the quality of life for millions of people around the world. The multifactorial nature of this disorder requires innovative and effective treatment strategies. Over time, there has been a growing interest regarding the use of natural topical therapies, with cannabinoids emerging as a promising group of compounds for investiga-tion. In the context of acne treatment, cannabinoids are of particular interest due to their anti-acne properties, namely, lipostatic, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antimicrobial activities. Among these bioactive compounds, cannabidiol stands out as a notable derivative, exhibiting a promising spectrum of therapeutic actions. Pre-clinical and clinical studies have proven its ability to modulate sebum production, reduce inflammation, and inhibit bacterial proliferation - all of which are critical components in the pathogenesis of this dermatosis. This review provides a comprehen-sive overview of cannabinoids' potential as a novel and holistic approach to acne vulgaris treatment and summarizes recent developments in this area.
Two Centuries of Velvet Worm Research: A Brief Illustrated History of Onychophorology
Authors: Monge-Najera Julian
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The first velvet worm (phylum Onychophora) was described nearly two centuries ago, by a British priest, in the tiny Caribbean island of Saint Vincent. He thought it was a new type of mollusk, a slug with tiny feet. Objective: Here I present a brief biographical account of the field of onychophorology, marking nearly two hundred years since the first scientific description of velvet worms. Method: I synthetize historical records, publications, personal experience and biographical sketches to construct an encompassing narrative of the field's development through the lives of researchers who have shaped it. Results: The narrative begins with Lansdown Guilding's initial discovery and extends to include pivotal figures like Jean Victor Audouin, Charles Émile Blanchard, Adolph Eduard Grube, Lorenzo Camerano, Eugène Louis Bouvier, Sidnie Milana Manton, Sylvia S. Campiglia, Roger Lavallard, Hilke Ruhberg, and Bernal Morera-Brenes. Contributions from Noel Tait, Robert Mesibov, Georg Mayer, Cristiano Sampaio, Ivo de Sena Oliveira, and José Pablo Barquero-González are also acknowledged. The article highlights their individual contributions to onychophorology, considering their scientific achievements and personal journeys, and presents portraits of nearly all of them. Conclusion: Our current knowledge of onychophorans is the results of hundreds of contributions from a large number of people who have lived varied, sometimes fascinating lives, but all united in their interest in velvet worms.
Migrate3D: Software for simplified post-tracking analysis of 3D and 2D cell migration data
Authors: Mynar Emily R. , Kinahan Matthew W. , Thali Markus , Symeonides Menelaos
Published: January 2024

Summary
: Migrate3D is a cell migration analysis tool whose purpose is to computationally process positional cell tracking data generated via other image acquisition/analysis software and generate biologically meaningful results. The functionalities of Migrate3D include step-based calculations of each cell track, single-cell-level summary statistics, mean squared displacement analysis, and machine learning-based evaluation of the entire dataset and subpopulations of cells found within it. The parameters calculated within Migrate3D have been previously developed and validated by other groups, and were selected to facilitate extraction of the maximum depth of information possible from input datasets. Variables are user-adjustable to enable customized analyses of diverse motility patterns and cell types, both in three- and two-dimensional timelapse data. Independent of any particular upstream image analysis or cell tracking software, Migrate3D only needs positional data over time to execute the suite of calculations. This presents a unique opportunity to standardize and streamline cell migration analysis.
Availability and Implementation
: Migrate3D is an open-source software suite implemented in Python (version 3.x) and functions on Windows, MacOS, and Linux systems. Source code and detailed installation and usage instructions are available freely at:
Nanoparticle Superlattices with Non-Equilibrium Crystal Shapes
Authors: Macfarlane Robert , Ye Matthew , Hueckel Theodore , Gatenil Perapat , Nagao Keisuke , Carter W
Published: January 2024

Nanoparticle assembly is a materials synthesis strategy that enables precise control of nanoscale structural features. Concepts from traditional crystal growth research have been tremendously useful in predicting and programming the unit cell symmetries of these assemblies, as their thermodynamically favored structures are often identical to atomic crystal analogues. However, these analogies have not yielded similar levels of influence in programming crystallite shapes, which are a consequence of both the thermodynamics and kinetics of crystal growth. Here we demonstrate kinetic control of colloidal crystal shape using nanoparticle building blocks that rapidly assemble over a broad range of concentrations, thereby producing well-defined crystal habits with symmetrically oriented dendritic protrusions and providing insight into the crystals’ morphological evolution. Counterintuitively, these non-equilibrium crystal shapes actually become more common for colloidal crystals synthesized closer to equilibrium growth conditions. This deviation from typical crystal growth processes observed in atomic or molecular crystals is shown to be a function of the drastically different timescales of atomic and colloidal mass transport, and thus this work provides design principles to expand the morphological diversity of nanoparticle superlattice crystal habits beyond the anhedral or equilibrium polyhedral shapes synthesized to date. Finally, we use this insight to synthesize crystallite shapes that have never before been observed, demonstrating the ability to both predict and program kinetically-controlled superlattice morphologies.
Eg5 UFMylation promotes spindle organization during mitosis
Authors: Duan Ranhui , Li Guangxu , Huang Yuanjiang , Wei Liyi , Huang Hongjing , Zhu Yingbao , Xiao Qiao , Zujia Wang , Wen Huang
Published: January 2024

UFMylation is a highly conserved ubiquitin-like post-translational modification that catalyzes the covalent linkage of UFM1 to its target proteins. This modification plays critical roles in the maintenance of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteostasis, DNA damage response, autophagy, and transcriptional regulation. Mutations in UFM1, as well as in its specific E1 enzyme UBA5 and E2 enzyme UFC1, have been genetically linked to microcephaly. Our previous research unveiled the important role of UFMylation in regulating mitosis. However, the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear due to the limited identification of substrates. In this study, we identified Eg5, a motor protein crucial for mitotic spindle assembly and maintenance, as a novel substrate for UFMylation and identified Lys564 as the crucial UFMylation site. UFMylation did not alter its transcriptional level, phosphorylation level, or protein stability, but affected the mono-ubiquitination of Eg5. During mitosis, Eg5 and UFM1 co-localize at the centrosome and spindle apparatus, and defective UFMylation leads to diminished spindle localization of Eg5. Notably, the UFMylation-defective mutant of Eg5 (K564R) displayed shortened or asymmetrical spindles, and suppressed cell proliferation in HeLa cells. Overall, Eg5 UFMylation is essential for proper spindle organization, mitotic progression and cell proliferation.
Genetic variation in IL-4 activated tissue resident macrophages alters the epigenetic state to determine strain specific synergistic responses to LPS
Authors: Loke Png , zhao mingming , Jankovic Dragana , Hornick Katherine , Link Verena , Souza Camila Oliveira Silva , Belkaid Yasmine , Lack Justin
Published: January 2024

How macrophages in the tissue environment integrate multiple stimuli will depend on the genetic background of the host, but this is poorly understood. Here, we investigated C57BL/6 and BALB/c strain specific in vivo IL-4 activation of tissue-resident macrophages (TRMs) from the peritoneal cavity. C57BL/6 TRMs are more transcriptionally responsive to IL-4 stimulation, with a greater association of induced genes with super enhancers, induced enhancers, and topologically associating domains (TAD) boundaries. IL-4-directed epigenomic remodeling revealed BL/6 specific enrichment of NF-κB, IRF, and STAT motifs. Additionally, IL-4-activated BL/6 TRMs demonstrated an augmented synergistic response upon in vitro lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure compared to BALB/c TRMs, despite naïve BALB/c TRMs displaying a more robust transcriptional response to LPS than naïve BL/6 TRMs. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of mixed bone marrow chimeric mice indicated that transcriptional differences between BL/6 and BALB/c TRMs, and synergy between IL-4 and LPS, are cell intrinsic within the same tissue environment. Hence, genetic variation alters IL-4-induced cell intrinsic epigenetic reprogramming resulting in strain specific synergistic responses to LPS exposure.
Ultrasound-based radiomics model: a potential adjunctive tool for assessing impaired placental function in preeclampsia
Authors: Sun Hongshuang , Jiao Jing , Wang Yicong , Zhu Chen , Wang Shaochun , Ban Bo , Guo Yi , Wang Yuanyuan , Ren Yunyun
Published: January 2024

Purpose
Combined with ultrasound-based radiomics, our research team has successfully developed a novel model that enables the evaluation of placental function in rats with pre-eclampsia.
Material and Methods
We have developed a rat model of preeclampsia induced by L-NAME and evaluated placental dysfunction through the analysis of microstructural alterations and immunoprotein levels in placental tissue. After feature extraction of ultrasound images, the Boruta feature selection method was employed to determine the most effective combination of features, and a ten-fold cross-validation method was utilized to establish the optimal model for classifying placental dysfunction. The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC were employed to assess the efficacy of the developed model.
Results
In pregnant rats with preeclampsia, significant changes were observed in the microstructure of placental tissue and the expression of the angiogenic factor in the tissue. Ultrasound images of the placenta yielded a total of 558 radiomics features based on high-throughput mining of quantitative image features. After assessment of impaired placental function, an evaluation model was successfully constructed for assessing placental function in pregnant rats. The evaluation model had an AUC of 0.95, with high sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value, reaching 88.7%, 91.5%, 90.2%, 90.4%, and 90.0%, respectively.
Conclusion
Ultrasound-based radiomics could effectively identify abnormal placental features in pregnant rats with preeclampsia, and exhibiting high performance in evaluating normal and poor placental function.
Growing online attention and positive sentiments towards carbon dioxide removal
Authors: Repke Tim , Muller-Hansen Finn , Cox Emilx , Minx Jan
Published: January 2024

Scaling up CO2 removal is crucial to achieve net-zero targets and limit global warming.
Understanding public perception of large-scale carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is vital to avoid opposition that could slow down development, investments, and deployment.

Using Twitter data from 2010 to 2022, we analysed attention and sentiments towards ten CDR methods.
Our study provides up-to-date time series evidence complementing survey studies, capturing the opinions of users with knowledge or awareness of emerging CDR methods.

Attention towards CDR has grown exponentially, particularly in recent years.
Overall, the discourse on CDR has become more positive, except for BECCS.
Conventional CDR methods are the most discussed and receive more positive sentiments.
We examined three user types, each with varying levels of involvement in the discourse.
Infrequent users (assumed less familiar) pay more attention to methods with biological sinks, while frequent users (assumed more familiar) focus more on novel CDR methods.
A cost-effective approach to measurements of fluorophore temperature sensitivity and temperature change
Authors: Cai Matthew , Sun Alexander , Yan Andrea , Ding Zachary , Jiang Melvin Zunyao , Wang Charissa , Yuan Baohong
Published: January 2024

The demand for measuring fluorophore temperature sensitivity and temperature change in chemical or biological samples has spurred the search for effective methods. While infrared (IR) light-based thermal devices are popular, they are limited to surface temperature measurement. Fluorescence-based thermometry, which utilizes intensity, lifetime, polarization, and spectrum change, provides the temperature information directly from the samples and can have high temporal and spatial resolution. However, measuring fluorescence can be tricky and expensive. A cost-effective approach to achieving reasonable accuracy is highly desired. This study introduces such an approach, employing a light-emitting diode (LED) for fluorophore excitation and a laser diode (LD) for sample heating, with a phone camera recording fluorescence changes. A data processing method converts the video into digital data, processed through digital filters. Utilizing a small-volume cuvette enhances heating efficiency. This study serves as a practical guide for inexperienced individuals, including students, instructors, and researchers, facilitating entry into the field and navigating the complexities of fluorescence-based thermometry.
Surface ruptures of the 2022 Guanshan-Chihshang earthquakes in central Longitudinal Valley area, eastern Taiwan
Authors: Wang Yu , Wu Sheng-Han , Chou Hoi-Ling Birdie , Li Yi-Yu , Cheng Wai-San , Ho Andrew , Chen Jian-Ming , Liu Sze-Chieh , Hsieh Chia-Yun , Duan Siang , Min Saw Myat , Myo Ei Mhone Nathar , Tsai Yuan-Lu , Liang Nai-Wun , Liao Jhih-Hao , Lam Tsz-Yau Amundsen , Chang En-Wei , Shyu J. Bruce H.
Published: January 2024

The Mw 6.4 and 6.8 Guanshan-Chihshang earthquakes occurred on 17 and 18 September 2022 resulted in prominent surface ruptures within the Longitudinal Valley in eastern Taiwan, particularly along the Yuli fault in the middle of the valley. Approximately 18 hours after the mainshock, we began to document the surface rupture in the vicinity of Yuli Town, where the rupture transected through the center of the residential area. Our result suggests the surface rupture of the mainshock formed a confined single left-lateral trace in the town of Yuli, characterized by a series of en échelon right-stepping left-lateral faulting geometry. The rupture of 2022 roughly matches the locations of surface ruptures of 1951 inside the Yuli Town, with similar amount of cross-fault left-lateral displacement. North and South of the Yuli residential area, we identified several sections of the surface rupture distributed in the water-saturated paddy fields. The maximum left-lateral displacement recorded across the rupture can reach to 1.4 meters just south of Yuli, with the fault scarp resembles a high-angle west-dipping fault geometry. In addition to the co-seismic surface ruptures, our repeating cross-fault measurements show significant post-seismic shallow after-slip along the Yuli fault. The amount of post-seismic deformation within 3 months after the mainshock is close to, or even higher than the co-seismic cross-fault displacement, consistent with local witness accounts and post-event field photos which showed continuous damage and displacement of building floors and roads after the earthquake. Such shallow post-seismic slips were also observed along the main fault trace in the 2014 South Napa earthquake, and likely represent the shallow elastoplastic behavior of the sub-vertical fault in the young alluvial sediments.
Large scale exploration reveals rare taxa as key members shaping microbial assembly in alkaline lake sediments
Authors: Yu Ke , Qiu Zhiguang , He Shuhang , Lian Chun-Ang , Zhang Qing , Qiao Xuejiao , Yao Ciqin , Mu Rong , Wang Li , Cao Xiao-Ai , Yan Yan
Published: January 2024

Alkaline lakes are typical extreme environments inhabitant for a range of diverse microbial extremophiles. However, the large-scale distribution patterns, environmental adaptations, community assembly processes, and evolutionary dynamics of microbial communities, particularly those with different niches remain largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the characteristics of microbial communities in terms of rare and abundant taxa within alkaline lake sediments in west and northwest China. We observed the community structure of abundant taxa varied significantly with geographical distance, while rare taxa remained unaffected by regional differences, supporting by the assembly process of abundant taxa influenced by diffusion limitation, a stochastic process, and rare taxa predominantly driven by heterogeneous selection as a deterministic process due to their broader environmental adaptability. Network analysis indicated that rare taxa as keystone species played a vital role in community interactions, contributing positively to community stability. From an evolutionary perspective, rare taxa were found to have higher specification and transition rate than abundant taxa, implying that rare taxa served as a genetic reservoir and potential candidates to become abundance taxa, and highlighting the crucial role of rare taxa in the maintenance of microbial diversity. These findings provide deeper insights into the dynamics of abundant and rare taxa in alkaline lake ecosystems and underscore the significant influence of rare taxa on microbial diversity and community stability, offering profound implications for ecosystem management and the conservation of biodiversity in alkaline lakes.
Bioinformatic analysis of N6-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytosine, and N1-methyladenosine co-regulation patterns and validation of NSUN6 as a protective protein in colon cancer
Authors: Xie WenJie , Sun Zhao , Fu Yang
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND
More than one hundred types of RNA modification involved in nearly all the biological processes. However, the crosstalk among these RNA methylations and their related regulators still remains mysterious in the development and progression of colon adenocarcinoma (COAD).
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to explore the interactions and prognostic values of RNA methylation regulators in COAD.
METHODS
Subgroups of COAD patients from the TGCA database were determined by consensus clustering. GSVA and GSEA analyses were used to detect the different biological pathways. And algorithms including ssGSEA and ESTIMATE were performed for the immunological analysis. Moreover, the univariate and multivariate Cox analyses based on immunohistochemistry were applied to investigate the prognostic values.
RESULTS
COAD patients were divided into two groups: patients with the worse prognosis were identified with the dysregulated EMT, NF-κB and KRAS signaling pathways and higher stromal scores. NSUN6, the writer of m5C, was further confirmed as a protective protein by immunohistochemistry and multi-datasets analysis suggested that FBXW7 is co-expressed with NSUN6.
CONCLUSIONS
In COAD, interactions among the regulators of m6A, m5C and m1A could be used to distinguish the patients with different prognosis. And the m5C writer NSUN6 can be served as a prognostic biomarker.
Covid-19 and Cholera Co-Infection and Comorbidity in Africa and Asia: A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis
Authors: Akinsulie Olalekan Chris , Olukogbe Oluwagbemisola Oyin , Idris Ibrahim , Joshi Melina , Williams Rhonda , Koku Roberta , Shahzad Sammuel , Babawale Pius , Banwo Olamilekan Gabriel , Gbadegoye Joy Olaoluwa , Ugwu Charles Egede , Fasakin Oluwole , Aliyu Victor Ayodele , Ogunleye Seto Charles , Okedoyin Deborah O
Published: January 2024

In Africa and Asia, the interplay between COVID-19 and cholera has manifested as a dual burden on healthcare systems and economies and as a potential public health threat, necessitating effective intervention. Cholera outbreaks have surged, especially in Africa, compounded by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Due to a shift in focus towards combating COVID-19 and the consequent weakening of healthcare systems, data on cholera outbreaks are limited in many Asian and African nations in recent times. Here, we conducted a systematic review using available data from published articles on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cholera cases in Africa and Asia. Using the keywords “COVID-19”, “Cholera”, and “Endemic region”, we gathered articles from electronic databases while adhering to the established syntax. As a result, 642 articles were identified from PubMed, 4 from the Cochrane Library, and 7 from the Global Index Medicine. Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed that COVID-19 and cholera comorbidity and coinfection in both Africa and Asia were strongly positively correlated (95% CI = 0.80, 0.99). These findings suggest that cholera incidence and mortality were elevated during the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa and Asia. The development of measures to prevent cholera outbreaks, especially those strengthening healthcare systems, which were largely overwhelmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, is necessary to bolster public health.
Semi-quantitative analysis of key aroma compounds in fragrant rice bran oil by GC×GC- TOFMS and GC-O
Authors: Wang Yong , Liu Lvrui , Wang Xin , Cao Hongwei , Wang Jing , Jiang Yuanrong , Zhu Zhennan , Guan Xiao
Published: January 2024

The physicochemical and flavor qualities of three types of rice bran oil (RBO) were explored, namely RBO A (rice aroma RBO), RBO B (pressed RBO), and RBO C (refined RBO). Various analyses were employed to critically evaluate the flavor profiles of these oils. In the preliminary findings, no significant differences were observed in the physicochemical properties among them. However, through sensory and instrumental evaluations, RBO A was identified having the optimum flavor. GC×GC-TOFMS and GC-O analysis of the RBO A revealed that 14 key aroma compounds primarily contributed to its flavor. These compounds aligned with the characteristic flavor substances of fragrant rice. Notably, 2-AP and vanillin emerged as the most substantial contributors. This research not only sheds light on the aromatic constitution of RBO A but also bears significant implications for future investigations and industrial applications aimed at enhancing the flavor of RBO.
Evaluation of evidences for dynamic systems based on Bayes factors with an application
Authors: Hashempour Majid , Doostparast Mahdi
Published: January 2024

This paper deals with the computation of Bayes factors (BFs) based on sequential order statistics arising from homogeneous exponential populations. Explicit expressions for the BFs are derived from the chi-square and the Poisson distribution functions. Some approximations for the derived BFs are also proposed. A simulated data set is analyzed using the obtained results. Open problems are also mentioned. The findings of this paper may be used for assessing evidence in the available data in various fields such as reliability analyses of engineering systems and life testing experiments.
Mathematics Subject Classification: 62F15, 62L12, 62N01.
Improvement in the abrasion resistance of cutter blades by laser processing
Authors: Shigemori Keisuke , Hironaka Yoichiro
Published: January 2024

Blades that are mass-produced and distributed as industrial products are indispensable tools in our lives. Some of these inexpensive and convenient blades are considered disposable. However, by improving their performance with a small amount of additional machining, we could reduce waste and improve society. We performed underwater laser machining using a 5-ns pulsed laser to improve the abrasion resistance. By using a mass-produced cutter blade, the cutting edge was laser peened, and a sharpness test was conducted with a sharpness tester. The measured values showed that the abrasion resistance could be approximately doubled. Additionally, in this work, sharpness tester measurements were found to be applicable for evaluating the performance of laser peening effects.
A Scalable Blockchain-based Framework for Efficient IoT Data Management Using Lightweight Consensus
Authors: Haque Ehtisham Ul , Shah Adil , Iqbal Jawaid , Ullah Syed Sajid , Alroobaea Roobaea , Hussain Saddam
Published: January 2024

Recent research has focused on applying blockchain technology to solve security-related problems in Internet of Things (IoT) networks. However, the inherent scalability issues of blockchain technology become apparent in the presence of a vast number of IoT devices and the substantial data generated by these networks. Therefore, in this paper, we use a lightweight consensus algorithm to cater to these problems. We propose a scalable blockchain-based framework for managing IoT data, catering to a large number of devices. This framework utilizes the Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) consensus algorithm to ensure enhanced performance and efficiency in resource-constrained IoT networks. DPoS being a lightweight consensus algorithm leverages a selected number of elected delegates to validate and confirm transactions, thus mitigating the performance and efficiency degradation in the blockchain-based IoT networks. In this paper, we implemented an Interplanetary File System (IPFS) for distributed storage, and Docker to evaluate the network’s performance in terms of throughput, latency, and resource utilization. We divided our analysis into four parts: Latency, throughput, resource utilization, and file upload time and speed in distributed storage evaluation. Our empirical findings demonstrate that our framework exhibits low latency, measuring less than 0.976 milliseconds. The proposed technique outperforms Proof of Stake (PoS), representing a state-of-the-art consensus technique. We also demonstrate that the proposed approach is useful in IoT applications where low latency or resource efficiency is required.
Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling of meropenem in critically ill patients
Authors: Yang yujie , Wang Yirong , Zeng Wei , Zhou Jinhua , Xu Min , Lan Ying , Liu Lvye , Shen Jian , Zhang Chuan , He Qin
Published: January 2024

Objectives
The purpose of this study was to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model (PBPK/PD) of meropenem for critically ill patients.
Methods
A PBPK model of meropenem in healthy adults was established using PK-Sim® software and subsequently extrapolated to critically ill patients based on anatomic and physiological parameters. The mean fold error (MFE) and geometric mean fold error (GMFE) method were used to compare the differences between predicted and observed values of pharmacokinetic parameters Cmax, AUC0−∞, CL to evaluate the accuracy of PBPK model. The model was verified by using meropenem plasma samples obtained from the ICU patients, which were determined by HPLC-MS/MS. The PBPK model was thereafter combined with a PKPD model, developed based on f%T > MIC. Monte Carlo simulation was utilized to calculate the probability of target attainment (PTA) in patients.
Results
The developed PBPK model successfully predicted the meropenem disposition in critically ill patients, wherein the MFE average and GMFE of all predicted PK parameters were within 1.25-fold error range. The therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of meropenem was conducted 92 blood samples from 31 ICU patients, of which 71 (77.17%) blood samples were consistent with the simulated value. The TDM results showed that we may not need age-specific dose adjustment of meropenem in critically ill patients. Monte Carlo simulations showed that continuous infusion and frequent administration were necessary to achieve curative effect for critically ill patients, whereas excessive infusion time (> 4h) was not necessary.
Conclusion
The PBPK/PD modelling incorporating literature data and prospective study data is able to correctly predict meropenem pharmacokinetics in critically ill patients. Our study provides a reference for realizing clinical personalized medication for critically ill patients.
Animal burrow presence patterns and local shrub density in Central California Deserts
Authors: Owen Ethan , Lortie Christopher J. , Zuliani Mario
Published: January 2024

Background
Ecological resource availability is crucial for the survival of local desert animal communities. Landscape resources such as shrubs and burrows provide several mechanisms that can benefit associating animal species typically through reducing harsh abiotic factors. Since many of these shrubs act as foundational species within desert ecosystems, understanding how these resources, along with those created by local vertebrate species, can provide key insights into habitat utilization. Here, we test to see if there is an association between the presence of burrows created by local desert species and the total density of foundational shrubs, across various Central California deserts. This was tested through a combination of burrow field surveys and satellite imagery. All data was combined to determine if there is a relationship between both resources for desert vertebrate species.
Results
We found that there were significantly more burrows associated with foundational shrub species across Central California deserts and that shrub density positively predicts the presence of burrows. In several of the tested ecosystems, increasing shrub densities positively predicted higher probabilities of burrow presence.
Conclusions
The existence of two highly utilized desert resources, and the relationship between them, signals that areas abundant in both resources can positively impact local animal species.
Telomere-to-telomere Phragmites australis reference genome assembly with a B chromosome provides new insights into its evolution and polysaccharide biosynthesis
Authors: Cui Suxia , Cui Jipeng , Wang Rui , Gu Ruoqing , Chen Minghui , Wang Ziyao , Li Li , Hong Jianming
Published: January 2024

Phragmites australis, widely distributed worldwide, has a vast biomass and a strong ability to adapt to the environment. Its rhizome (known as "Lugen" in Chinese medicine) has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. In this study, we assembled a chromosome-level reference genome of Phragmites australis containing one B chromosome. An explosion of LTR-RTs, centered on the Copia family, occurred during the late Pleistocene, driving the expansion of reeds genome size and subgenomic differentiation. Comparative genomic analysis showed that P. australis underwent two whole gene duplication events, was segregated from Cleistogenes songorica at 34.6 Mya, and that 41.26% of the gene families underwent expansion. Based on multi-tissue transcriptomic data, we identified structural genes in the biosynthetic pathway of pharmacologically active Phragmites polysaccharides that have important roles in rhizome development. The assembly of the P. australis genome contributes to our understanding of Arundiaceae evolution and polysaccharide biosynthesis in phragmitis rhizoma.
Equol production is associated with bone mass in young women
Authors: Hanano Hiromi , Aoki Takumi , Sasaki Shota , Fuzikawa Hiroyoshi , Oishi Kan , Yamamoto Yuiko , Yamaguchi Hiroki , Mori Takaaki , Ishii Kojiro
Published: January 2024

Background
Osteoporosis, a disease characterized by decreased bone strength and increased risk of fracture, represents a significant health concern in older adults. Primary osteoporosis prevention requires increasing bone mass (BM) to its peak at a young age. The estrogen-like effect of equol has been reported to suppress bone loss in postmenopausal women. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between BM, body mass, skeletal muscle mass, exercise habits, menstrual abnormalities, and equol production in younger women.
Methods
Of a total of 395 female university students recruited, 275 who were not taking any hormonal medications and had no deficiencies in any of the measurement items we evaluated, were included in the analysis. BM was measured in the right calcaneus using an ultrasonic bone densitometer. Body composition was measured via the bioelectrical impedance method, using a multifrequency body composition analyzer. Hormone use, menstrual cycle, current exercise habits, and daily soy intake were assessed using self-administered questionnaires. Equol production was measured using a Soy-Check system. Multiple regression analysis, using the forced-entry method, was performed with BM as the objective variable; and age, body mass index, skeletal muscle mass index, soy intake, exercise habits, menstrual cycle, and equol production as the explanatory variables.
Results
In our multiple regression analysis with osteo-sonoassessment indexas the objective variable, the significantly associated factors were determined to be the amount of equol production (β = 0.11, p < 0.05), skeletal muscle mass index (β = 0.29, p < 0.01), and current exercise habits (β = 0.31, p < 0.01). By contrast, age, body mass index, soy intake, and menstrual cycle were not found to be significantly associated with osteo-sonoassessment index.
Conclusions
Young women with higher equol production, exercise habits, and skeletal muscle mass indexshad higher levels of BM. The acquisition of maximal BM at a young age is protective against osteoporosis; therefore, increased equol production at a young age may protect against osteoporosis.
Pinoresinol targets NF-κB alongside STAT3 pathway to attenuate IL-6-induced inflammation
Authors: Dutta Anupam , Das Dorothy , Chakraborty Rituraj , Baruah Bhargab Jyoti , Sharma Manoj , Sharma Pushpa , Mattaparthi Venkata Satish Kumar , Mukhopadhyay Rupak
Published: January 2024

Objective
Activation of NF-κB alongside STAT3 by IL-6 plays major role in inflammation-induced disease pathophysiology. Here, we report the mechanism of downregulation of NF-κB and JAK-STAT pathways by pinoresinol in IL6-induced macrophages.
Methods
Bioinformatic analysis screened Pinoresinol, among 100 dietary polyphenols, as the most potent to interact with the proteins in NF-κB and JAK-STAT cascades. The effect of pinoresinol on IL-6-activated p65 NF-κB and STAT3 and their regulators was studied by immunoblotting. Localization of the transcription factors were investigated by immunofluorescence and fractionation studies. Effect of pinoresinol on the downstream genes of the NF-κB and JAK-STAT pathways was studied by RT-PCR or immunoblotting. Biological implication this inhibition was shown by attenuation of cellular adhesion and migration.
Results
Pinoresinol repressed IL-6-mediated activation and nuclear translocation of both p65 NF-κB and STAT3. It reduced the phosphorylation of IKK and IκB-α, and degradation of the latter. The expressions of downstream genes e.g. IL-1β, TNF-α, and COX-2 were also attenuated following pinoresinol treatment. The polyphenol reduced the IL-6-mediated macrophage adhesion and migration, which was supported by downregulation of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, MCP-1, MMP-9 and MMP-2 in pinoresinol-treated cells.
Conclusion
Pinoresinol targets NF-κB and JAK-STAT pathways to attenuate IL-6-induced inflammatory condition which highlights its potential as a candidate for anti-inflammatory therapy.
Multi-scenario simulations and analyses of urban ecological sources using PLUS and MSPA models — exemplified by Zhengzhou City.
Authors: Fan Qindong , Wang YuXin , Ping Xiaoying
Published: January 2024

In cities, ecological sources are patches that exert the strongest ecological effects. The landscape pattern and ecological functions of these ecological sources play a critical role in addressing climate change, conserving biodiversity, and fostering sustainable development. Utilizing the 2010 and 2020 land use data, the landscape pattern changes of green spaces in Zhengzhou's central urban area under the three scenarios (natural evolution scenario, cropland protection scenario, and ecological protection scenario) in 2030 were simulated by the PLUS model. Subsequently, morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) was employed to identify ecological sources across three scenarios, while their landscape patterns were analyzed by landscape pattern indices. Our results indicate significant changes in Zhengzhou's main urban area's landscape patterns between 2010 and 2020, with notable expansion in ecological source areas. In all of the 2030 multi-scenario simulations, the ecological source areas show a westward expansion. Meanwhile, the Largest Patch Index (LPI) of ecological sources also exhibited an upward trend under the 2030 multi-scenario simulations, suggesting that the large, contiguous patches will be the dominant form of ecological source expansion in the future. Our research aids in identifying and safeguarding ecological sources, offering a foundation for future urban ecological planning decisions.
Reliability analysis of PVD-improved soft soil settlement prediction using Bayesian back analysis framework and simplified Hypothesis B method
Authors: Zhai Shijie , Du Guangyin , Peng Tao , Wang Yuxiao , Shang Zhiheng
Published: January 2024

The time-dependent settlement of soft soils is one of the key problems in geotechnical engineering. Using Bayesian back analysis, this study examined the reliability of settlement of the Ballina embankment in Australia. As random variables, the primary compression index (Cc), swelling index (Ce), and secondary compression index (Cαe) were examined for their influence on the settlement probability distribution. To generate compression index samples, Monte Carlo Markov chain simulations （MCMCS） were used, and predicted settlement samples were derived from the compression index samples. Consequently, the predicted settlement samples can be used for the reliability analysis. Based on a comparison between the field settlement data and the predicted settlement, the results indicate that the 90% confidence interval of the predicted settlement is in reasonable agreement with the field settlement monitoring data. With the incorporation of more monitored settlement data into the Bayesian framework, the distribution of predicted settlement shifts from the Weibull distribution to the normal distribution. In addition, the degree of uncertainty in the prediction of settlement decreases with the amount of data incorporated into the model. Additionally, the small amount of data used in the Bayesian framework can also lead to underestimations of failure probability.
RETRACTED: Mitotic Catastrophe Heterogeneity: Implications for Prognosis and Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Mao Zun , Gao Zhixiang , Long Ruyu , Guo Huimin , Yin Guoping
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
m 6 A demethylase ALKBH5 regulates TP53 to promote malignant transformation of lung cells induced by radon exposure via BTG2-mediated mitochondrial pathway
Authors: Wang Jin , Xu Qian , Tan Lirong , Liu Kaifan , Chen Bin , Fang Lijun , Tong Jian , Tian Hailin , Li Jianxiang , Li Jiawen
Published: January 2024

Lung cancer is a multi-etiological disease and radon is known as the second most common risk factor for the disease. The tumor suppressor gene TP53 is commonly mutated in human lung cancer, thus contributing to the alteration of mitochondrial outer membrane permeability (MOMP). Thus, this study aimed to investigate the role of the P53-mediated mitochondrial pathway in radon-induced lung cancer. Long-term radon exposure downregulated P53, enhanced mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and increased mitochondrial DNA copy number in BEAS-2B cells, as well as in the lung tissues of mice exposed to radon. The above effects significantly contributed to the radon-induced malignant transformation of BEAS-2B cells. In addition, high-throughput sequencing analysis revealed that BTG2 downregulation was involved in the P53 mitochondrial pathway-mediated radon-induced malignant transformation. BTG2 overexpression significantly restored the TP53-mediated alterations in MOMP, apoptosis, and MMP. Mechanically, TP53 downregulation was regulated by m6A demethylase ALKBH5, which was validated by treatment of ALKBH5 inhibitor IOX1 and mRNA stability assay in BEAS-2B and H1299 cells. Our research shows that the ALKBH5-mediated downregulation of TP53 affects the carcinogenesis of radon, and the BTG2 suppression in the P53-mediated mitochondrial pathway plays an important role in radon-induced lung cancer.
An Immunogenic Cell Death-Related Genes Predicts Prognosis And Tumor Microenvironment Features Of Early-stage Primary Hepatic Cell Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Liu Jun , Wang Ling , Jiang Yuhuan , Wang Jingzhi , Li Hunming
Published: January 2024

Objective
To elucidate the potential relationship between ICD and early-stage HCC prognosis, we sought to identify ICD-related genes and construct a model predicting patient response and survival outcomes to immunotherapy.
Methods
A cohort of 252 early-stage HCC patients was obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx). Immunogenic Cell Death-associated Gene Signatures (ICD-AGS) were curated from 57 genes implicated in ICD. Comparative analysis identified differentially expressed ICD-associated genes (DE-IRGs), which were subsequently functionally annotated using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway mapping.The relationship between ICD expression and the immune microenvironment was assessed using the ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms. A risk model was constructed through univariate Cox regression, LASSO technique, and gene expression profiling, validated with ROC curve analysis. Results Consensus clustering identified two distinct ICD expression groups, with the high-expression group associated with a favorable prognosis. Differential gene expression analysis revealed enrichment in immune-related pathways in the high ICD expression group. Somatic mutation analysis indicated variations in TP53, CTNNB1, and MUC16 between the two groups. The ICD high-expression group exhibited increased immune cell infiltration and higher expression of immune checkpoints. The ICD risk model containing 8 genes showed significant prognostic value and was externally validated.
Conclusion
This study unveils a novel relationship between ICD subtypes and the immune tumor microenvironment in early-stage HCC. The established prognostic risk model related to ICD provides valuable insights for predicting patient outcomes and guiding immunotherapeutic interventions in HCC.
Food-washing monkeys recognize the law of diminishing returns
Authors: Dominy Nathaniel , Rosien Jessica , Fannin Luke , Yeakel Justin , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Tan Amanda
Published: January 2024

Few animal species have the cognitive faculties or prehensile abilities needed to eliminate costly tooth-damaging grit from food surfaces. Some populations of monkeys wash sandy foods when standing water is readily accessible, but this propensity varies within groups for reasons unknown. Spontaneous food-washing emerged recently in a group of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) on Koram Island, Thailand, motivating us to explore the factors that drive individual variation. We measured the mineral and physical properties of contaminant sands and conducted a field experiment, eliciting 1,282 food-handling bouts by 42 monkeys. Our results verify two long-standing presumptions, that monkeys have a strong aversion to sand and that removing it is intentional. Reinforcing this point, monkeys clean foods beyond the point of diminishing returns, a suboptimal behaviour that varies with rank. Dominant monkeys abstain from washing, balancing the long-term benefits of mitigating tooth wear against immediate energetic requirements, an essential predictor of reproductive fitness.
The Effect of Mindfulness on Well-Being in Education: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moreno-Pérez Raquel , Delgado-Ríos Myriam
Published: January 2024

Objectives
This article is a response to the growing need to prioritise well-being and balance cognitive and socioemotional aspects in the educational environment. Its objective is to conduct a systematic review of studies that have analysed the influence of mindfulness practice on well-being in educational settings, in order to investigate whether the effects of its practice can be extrapolated to the educational environment as a whole.
Methods
: Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of major databases was carried out using the keywords ‘mindfulness’, ‘education’ and ‘well-being’. After peer review, the final sample consisted of 15 articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results
The findings show that mindfulness practice has positive effects on the well-being of the educational community; a positive relationship has also been found between mindfulness practice and performance.
Conclusions
Despite the limitations, mindfulness programmes showed a positive association with well-being among both students and teaching staff. This highlights the need for future research to overcome the limitations identified, with a view to addressing the paucity of studies and existing methodological heterogeneity. It is suggested that future research endeavours should be extended to other educational stages and to continue exploring the appropriateness and effectiveness of mindfulness practices in the educational context.
Utilizing Publicly Accessible Machine Learning for Training Student Formulators in Personal Care Product Formulation: Specification-Driven and Cost-Conscious Experiments
Authors: Bilbao McKinnley , Carmona Tomas , Covarrubias Morgan , Goslin Alex , Judge Katherine , Munn Garland , Ticas Hazel , Tonioli Abe , Tuttle Collin , West Caitlin , Scott Daniel
Published: January 2024

This work explores the application of the questionable use of machine learning (ML), specifically the ChatGPT 3.5 system, in the training of student formulators. Here, an experiment is undertaken to explore the ability of ML to aid in training students in the role of formulators of a personal care product. The focus is on whether or not the students can successfully rely on ML to guide them through the formulation process of a 10-minute hydrating face mask recipe. While exploring the iterative process of recipe adjustments with ML, it was found that the language model demonstrates the ability to help formulators in training due to its above-average knowledge in chemistry, but when given clear prompts, it performs much better at providing helpful suggestions for ingredient substitutions. However, ML lacks a reliable memory, even within a single extended conversation and struggles with mathematical calculations. ML is not found to be proficient in accurately calculating cost adjustments. Additionally, the contribution of ML may only be marginally helpful in the training of more seasoned formulator. Despite its limitations, ML can quickly and effectively, in the hands of student formulators in-training, provide direction and support to produce and improve upon a base formula resulting in a quality product.