bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
G-STRIDE inertial system to explore gait factors that are associated with frailty in older adults with falls
Authors: Huertas-Hoyas Elisabet , Alvarez Marta Neira , Neira Guillermo Garcia-Villamil , Rodriguez-Sanchez Maria Cristina Cristina , Espinoza-Cerda Maria Teresa Teresa , Perez-Delgado Laura Teresa , Reina-Robles Elena Teresa , Martin Irene Bartolomé , Ama Antonio J J. Del , Ruiz-Ruiz Luisa , De Villa Sara García , Jimenez-Ruiz Antonio R R.
Published: November 2023

Purpose
Falls and frailty share an intrinsic relationship and World Health Organization recommends health initiatives focused on the early detection of both to increase individual resilience. The objective of the study is to compare clinical characteristics, functional performance, and gait parameters estimated with the G-STRIDE inertial sensor, between different frailty groups in older adults with and without falls and secondly to identify characteristics of prefrail and frail subjects that are associated with falls.
Method
We conducted an observational, multicenter case-control study in older adults with and without falls. Participants were included in the outpatient clinic in two general public hospitals and three public nursing homes from September 2021 to March 2022. We gathered clinical variables and several gait parameters using G-STRIDE. Frailty status segmentation was based on the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) criteria.
Results
There were 163 participants (72% women and mean age of 82.6 ± 6.2 years), 53% fallers and 70 were fit, 52 were prefrail, and 41 were frail. Frailty and pre-frailty people had more falls and G-STRIDE parameters (mean values and coefficient of variability) show significant differences between frailty groups. Step speed during the swing phase and mean walking speed measured by G-STRIDE identify those prefrail and frail participants with falls.
Conclusion
G-STRIDE inertial sensor show significant differences between frailty groups and identify gait characteristics of prefrail and frail adults with higher risk of falls suggesting its potential implementation into routine assessment for detecting early frailty.
Identification of markers for root traits using association mapping analysis in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Ramteke Ravina Prakash , Verma Sunil Kumar , Agrawal Toshy , Verulkar S. B.
Published: November 2023

Rice is mainly a semi-aquatic plant; an adequate amount of water is necessary for the better development and growth of rice crops. However, due to the scarcity of water in rice-growing countries, we faced problems like drought stress and other abiotic stresses. The research is conducted to analyze the root system and root morphology of rice plants because the rice is drought tolerant and directly correlated with the root system. The study is designed for rice root traits analysis i.e. genotypic and phenotypic. The hundred diverse genotypes of rice with three different groups viz; wild type, the cultivated type, and germplasm rice were grown under the rhizotron conditions. The 157 SSR markers were used for studying the population of rice and genotypic data were generated. The root was scanned by root scanner after 45 DAS and the parameters taken for the considerations are root length (RL), total root length (TRL), average root diameter (ARD), surface area (SA), root weight fresh (RW(F)), root weight dry (RW(D)), and root volume (RV) etc. Phenotypic data was recorded. After analysis ix markers were found associated with the root traits. Marker RM-408 on chromosome 8 is associated with the total root length (TRL) and the fresh root weight. RM-236 and RM-408 on chromosome 8 is associated with root surface area, and NOD-1 and NOD-3 on chromosome 8 is associated with the dry root weight. RM-505 on chromosome 7 is associated with the average root diameter, and RM-1 on chromosome 1 is also associated with the root surface area these markers show the marker trait associations in rice. The best genotypes found out of 100 genotypes were WR-41, RKVY-104, Bamleshwari, Nagina-22, and CT-9993 which have good root length, root volume, root diameter, etc. This study will help in future with selection and use of donor genotypes of rice for drought tolerance.
Liming promotes soil nitrite accumulation but reduces subsequent abiotic nitrous oxide emissions
Authors: Li Suyun , Cai Danni , Shaaban Muhammad , Ma Jiani , Liu Shurong
Published: November 2023

Aims
The mechanisms underlying nitrous oxide (N2O) production in limed soils with N fertilizer application are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of liming on nitrite (NO2-) accumulation and its contribution to subsequent N2O production in soils with varying concentrations of ammonium (NH4+) additions (50, 100, and 250 mg NH4+-N kg-1 soil).
Methods
Soil microcosm incubation was designed to investigate NO2- accumulation and N2O production in the acidic and limed vegetable soil after different levels of N inputs. Sterilization of samples was used to distinguish the biotic and abiotic N2O productions. DNA extraction and relative functional gene detection provided molecular evidence.
Results
Elevating soil pH to alkaline (pH 8.5) through liming caused a shift in the soil microbial community, with an increase in the abundance of ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and a decrease in nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB). This resulted in the conversion of half of the added NH4+ to NO2-, with higher NH4+ concentrations leading to more cumulative NO2-. However, the N2O production resulting from NO2- accumulation was relatively modest (max. 0.89 μg N kg-1 soil per hour). Further experiments demonstrated that 81.9-93.6% of N2O production associated with NO2- accumulation was driven by abiotic processes under aerobic conditions, while abiotic processes drove 42.4-54.8% of N2O production under anaerobic conditions. Additionally, liming reduced 92% of the abiotic N2O production compared to that observed in acidic soil.
Conclusion
Liming promotes soil nitrite accumulation but reduces subsequent abiotic nitrous oxide emissions.
Severe Sars-cov-2 Related Disease in Children Aged 0-19 Years in Ethiopia, a Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Kebede Rahel A. , Mekasha Amha , Estifanos Abiy Seifu , Yeshidinber Abate , Kassa Bethlehem Belay , Gebreselassie Martha , Temsegen Mereretu , Tefera Muluwork , Alemayehu Tinsae , Kebede Dawit , Abebe Tamirat , Kotiso Kehabtimer Shiferaw , Edmond Karen M.
Published: November 2023

Objective
To assess the prevalence of severe SARS CoV 2 related disease in children aged 0–19 years and to evaluate the associations between malnutrition and other risk factors for severe disease.
Methods
A study involving 385 children aged 0–19 years from January 2020 to December 2021. The outcome variable was children with severe COVID-19 disease, defined as those hospitalized for acute COVID-19 disease or multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (World Health Organization case definition) with hypoxemia, hypotension, respiratory distress, or death. Undernutrition was also considered. The study used both univariable and multivariable analyses to assess possible associations, with a significant association considered at a P value < 0.05.
Results
Median age with interquartile range was 6(1–13). At presentation, 35.7% were malnourished with Weight for Age < − 2 SD scores and the mean weight for age Z-score was − 1.82 (4.54[SD]). Overall, 65.5% (252/385) of children were with severe COVID-19 disease and 19 (4.8%) met the World Health Organization case definition for multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Thirty six out of 385 (9.4%) children died. Children with comorbidities (167/385 (77.0%]) had a 1.4-fold greater risk of severe disease than children without these conditions (adjusted relative risk [RR] 1.37 (95% CI 1.14 to 1.65). Children with undernutrition (90/345, 73.2%) had a 1.15-fold greater risk of severe disease than children who were not malnourished (132/345, 63.5%) (RR 1.15, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.34), however, there was no association shown in the final model after adjusting for confounding (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.20).
Conclusion
The study reveals increased mortality and severe disease in severely ill children, emphasizing the need for vaccines and preventive measures in countries like Ethiopia with high mortality burdens.
Identification of circulating apolipoprotein M as a new determinant of insulin sensitivity and relationship with adiponectin
Authors: Viguerie Nathalie , Frances Laurie , Croyal Mikael , Ruidavets Jean-Bernard , maraninchi marie , Perret Bertrand , Valero Rene , Combes Guillaume , Moro Cedric , Martinez Laurent , Raffin Jérémy , Barreto Philipe de Souto , Ferrieres Jean , Blaak Ellen
Published: November 2023

Background.
Adiponectin and apolipoprotein M (apoM) are adipokines indicatives of healthy adipose tissue and down-regulated with obesity. We compared circulating apoM with adiponectin regarding their relationship with metabolic parameters and insulin sensitivity and examined their gene expression patterns in adipocytes and in the adipose tissue.
Methods.
Circulating apoM and adiponectin were examined in 169 men with overweight in a cross-sectional study, and 13 patients with obesity during a surgery-induced slimming program. Correlations with clinical parameters including the insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) were analyzed. Multiple regression analyses were performed on HOMA-IR. The APOM and ADIPOQ gene expression were measured in the adipose tissue from 267 individuals with obesity and a human adipocyte cell line.
Results.
Participants with type 2 diabetes had lower circulating adiponectin and apoM, while apoM was higher in individuals with dyslipidemia. Similar to adiponectin, apoM showed negative associations with HOMA-IR and hs-CRP (r>-0.2), and positive correlations with HDL markers (HDL-C and apoA-I, r > 0.3). Unlike adiponectin, apoM was positively associated with LDL markers (LDL-C and apoB100, r < 0.20) and negatively correlated with insulin and age (r>-0.2). The apoM was the sole negative determinant of HOMA-IR in multiple regression models, while adiponectin not contributing significantly. After surgery, the change in HOMA-IR was negatively associated with the change in circulating apoM (r=-0.71), but not with the change in adiponectin. The APOM and ADIPOQ gene expression positively correlated in adipose tissue (r > 0.44) as well as in adipocytes (r > 0.81). In adipocytes, APOM was downregulated by inflammatory factors and upregulated by adiponectin.
Conclusions.
The apoM rises as a new partner of adiponectin regarding insulin sensitivity. At the adipose tissue level, the adiponectin may be supported by apoM to promote a healthy adipose tissue.
Trial registration
NCT01277068, registered 13 January 2011; NCT02332434, registered 5 January 2015; and NCT00390637, registered 20 October 2006.
Identification technique for detecting effective prestressing of 1860 grade strand based on the microporous method
Authors: Yun Jianzhou , Chen Shunchao , Dong Chunyan , Wu Wenxiang , Nie Liangpeng
Published: November 2023

The existing prestressing strand pre-stress is related to the safety of bridge structures, and a method is established to identify the effective pre-stress of strands in in-service prestressed concrete bridges by the micro-hole release method. Firstly, the drilling model of steel strand is established by Solid Works and Abaqus, and the effects of drilling depth, drilling diameter, drilling deflection angle, and hole edge distance on the stress release of steel strand are studied. The results show that: the amount of stress release after strand drilling increases with the increase of drilling depth and drilling diameter; the amount of stress release decreases with the increase of hole margin; the error rate of stress release increases with the increase of drilling deflection angle when the strand drilling deflection angle is from 0° to 15°. The diameter of the hand-held drill bit is 1.5mm, the depth of the steel wire drilling is 5.0mm, the axial distance of the steel strand drilling wire is 3.0mm from the edge of the hole, and the drilling deflection angle of the drill bit is controlled to be less than 5°, which can satisfy the accuracy and operability of the test. Then, the difference between first paste then tension, and first tension then paste stress release under working conditions and applicable conditions were analyzed through strand drilling test. At the same time, the strain-tension fitting equations of strand release under first paste then tension, and first tension then paste conditions were compared with the finite element simulation results. The results show that the strain-tension fitting equations for strand release under the first tension and then paste condition are closer to the finite element simulation results and are more in line with the actual engineering.
A Study on Rapid Simulation of Mine Roadway Fires for Emergency Decision-Making
Authors: Chen Yangqin , Liu Jian , Zhou Qichao , Liu Li , Wang Dong
Published: November 2023

In traditional mine fire simulation, the FDS simulation software has been verified by large-scale and full-size fire experiments. The resulting calculations closely align with real-world scenarios, making it a valuable tool for simulating mine fires. However, when a fire occurs in a mine, utilizing FDS software to predict the fire situation in the mine entails a sequence of steps, including modeling, environmental parameter setting, arithmetic, and data processing, which takes time in terms of days, thus making it difficult to meet the demand for emergency decision-making timelines. To address the need for rapid predictions of mine tunnel fire development, a method for swiftly estimating environmental parameters and the concentration of causative factors at various times and locations post-fire has been devised. FDS software was employed to simulate numerous roadway fires under diverse conditions. Parameters such as fire source intensity, roadway cross-sectional area, roadway wind speed, roadway inclination angle, time, and others were utilized as the input layer for a neural network. In contrast, wind flow temperature, carbon monicide (CO) concentration, fire wind pressure, visibility, and others were designated as the output layer for training the neural network model. This approach established a fire prediction model to resolve issues related to time-consuming numerical simulations and the inability to provide a rapid response to disaster emergencies. The trained neural network model can instantaneously predict the environmental parameters and concentrations of the causative factors at different times and locations. The model exhibits an average relative error of 12.12% in temperature prediction, a mean absolute error of 0.87 m for visibility, a mean absolute error of 3.49 ppm for CO concentration, and a mean absolute error of 16.78 Pa for fire wind pressure. Additionally, the mean relative error in density is 2.9%. These predictions serve as crucial references for mine fire emergency decision-making.
Interactions between the AraC/XylS-like transcriptional activator InvF of Salmonella Typhimurium, the RNA polymerase alpha subunit and the chaperone SicA
Authors: Cortés-Avalos Daniel , Farias André Borges , Romero-González Luis E. , Lara-Ochoa Cristina , Villa-Tanaca Lourdes , Portillo Francisco García-del , López-Guerrero Vanessa , Bustamante Victor H. , Pérez-Rueda Ernesto , Ibarra J. Antonio
Published: November 2023

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium causes gastroenteritis and systemic infections in humans, for this bacterium the expression of a type three secretion system III (T3SS) and effector proteins encoded in the Salmonella pathogenicity island-1 (SPI-1), is keystone for the virulence of this bacterium. Expression of these is controlled by a regulatory cascade starting with the transcriptional regulators HilD, HilC and RtsA that induce the expression of HilA, which then activates expression of the regulator InvF, a transcriptional regulator of the AraC/XylS family. InvF needs to interact with the chaperone SicA to activate transcription of SPI-1 genes including sicA, sopB, sptP, sopE, sopE2, and STM1239. InvF very likely acts as a classical activator; however, whether InvF interacts with the RNA polymerase alpha subunit RpoA had not been determined. Results from this study confirm the interaction between InvF with SicA and reveal that both proteins interact with the RNAP alpha subunit. Thus, our study further supports that the InvF/SicA complex acts as a classical activator. Additionally, we showed for the first time an interaction between a chaperone of T3SS effectors (SicA) and the RNAP.
A new paleotemperature method from biotic proxy indices - An example from the Upper Paleozoic paleogeographic and paleotectonics reconstructions of Siberia
Authors: Davydov Vladimir , Karasev Evgeny , Popova Elizaveta
Published: November 2023

A new method for quantitatively assessing paleotemperatures in the Upper Paleozoic of Siberia based on the taxonomic composition of biota is proposed. This method utilizes a large data set on the geographic distribution and ecology of various biotas in Siberia and surrounding regions from the newly developed PaleoSib database. We developed new tools to analyze the paleotemperatures of the Siberian Platform (Angarida) shallow-water deposits during the Late Paleozoic. The obtained results clarified the dynamics of the paleoclimate and paleo-tectonics of this time in the region. Some lithological indexes were integrated with biotic ones to strengthen the paleotemperature analyses. A wide geologic community dealing with sedimentary geology and paleo-tectonics can utilize the method and the tools. The method can be used by anyone regardless of his or her skill level from students to professionals. We plan to integrate this method into the Paleobiology Database.
Repellence properties of catnip essential oil against the mosquito species Aedes aegypti
Authors: Batume Charles , Mulongo Ivan Mugeni , Ludlow Richard , Ssebaale John , Randerson Peter , Pickett John A. , Mukisa Ivan M. , Scofield Simon
Published: November 2023

The mosquito species Aedes aegypti is known to act as a vector in the transmission of various diseases, including dengue fever and yellow fever. The use of insect repellents is one of precautionary measures used to mitigate the risk of these diseases in humans by reducing mosquito biting. Nepetalactone, a potent natural insect repellent primarily found in catnip (Nepeta cataria) essential oil, has emerged as a promising candidate for mosquito repellence. Here, we evaluated the potential of catnip essential oil (>95% nepetalactone) for use as a mosquito repellent. Using a Y-tube olfactometer and human hands as an attractant, we analysed the effectiveness of catnip oil at repelling the mosquito species Aedes aegypti. We tested a range of dilutions of catnip essential oil and found that concentrations as low as 2% were effective at repelling >70% of mosquitoes for between one and four hours after repellent application. These findings suggest that nepetalactone could be used as a natural and highly effective alternative to synthetic mosquito repellents, thereby offering enhanced protection against vector-borne diseases.
The Impact of Traditional Village Landscape Gene Perception on Residents' Intention Behavior:The Mediating Role of Local Identity
Authors: Lu Xiaoxue , Chen Zujian
Published: November 2023

The recognition and perception of landscape characteristics by local residents of traditional villages are crucial in protecting these cultural treasures and influenced by various factors. Nevertheless, there is a lack of empirical research on how to encourage residents to accept and support traditional village protection behavior by shaping their perceptions of the village landscape in the Chinese context. Therefore, this study examines the influence of traditional village landscape genes on intentional behavior among residents in the southeastern coastal region of China. The study employs the attitude-behavior theoretical framework and constructs a "perceived value-place identity-intentional behavior" model using structural equation modeling. Place identity serves as the mediating variable. The study discusses the internal mechanism and characteristics of residents' perceived value of the landscape genes. The study demonstrates that residents' intentional behavior is significantly influenced by both perceived landscape value and place identity, with place identity serving as a mediator in the impact of perceived value dimensions. The architectural, layout, cultural, and environmental landscape gene perceptions have a comprehensive path coefficient ranked from high to low. Additionally, the demographic characteristics of residents partially influence their attitude and behavior. This study authenticates residents' behavioral tendencies in protecting traditional villages and highlights the role of the perception-identity bond in fostering protective behavior. These results aid in establishing a comprehensive understanding of residents' attitudes and behaviors towards traditional villages and are essential for identifying appropriate strategies for protecting and enhancing the village landscape.
Micro-Computed Tomographic Evaluation of the Shaping Ability of Vortex Blue and TruNatomyTM Ni-Ti Rotary Systems
Authors: Alghamdi Batool , Al-Habib Mey , Bahanan Lina , Alrahalah Ali , Bautista Leonel S.J. , ALSOFI LOAI
Published: November 2023

Aim: To assess and evaluate the canal shaping ability of two different Ni-Ti rotary systems ex-vivo: Vortex Blue (VB) and TruNatomy (TN), using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) in extracted premolar human teeth.
Materials and Methods: A total of 20 extracted bifurcated maxillary first premolars with two separate buccal and palatal canals wererandomly divided into two groups and prepared with either Vortex Blue or TruNatomy files. All teeth were scanned by micro-CT before and after root canal preparations. The micro-CT scans were analyzed to measure the following parameters: percentage of untouched canal surface area, changes in canal surface area, changes in canal volume, structural model index (SMI), changes in canal angulation and changes in dentin thickness. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the means and standard deviations of the parameters between the two systems, with statistical significance level set at P-value < 0.05.
Results: Both VB and TN files exhibited a significant increase in the basic canal geometry parameters including canal surface area and canal volume after canal instrumentation with no statistical significant differences between both files and with no considerable shaping mishaps or errors. Both file systems showed no significant changes in the SMI and dentin thickness after canal instrumentation. TN files demonstrated less straightening of the canal curvature compared to VB files with no statistically significant difference. Furthermore, TN files showed less cervical dentin removal when compared to VB files with no significant difference. A significant difference was found in TN group regarding dentin removal between coronal and apical thirds.
Conclusion: Vortex Blue and TruNatomy files produced comparable root canal preparation with no considerable shaping mishaps or errors. Both files induced minimal canal straightening after preparation. TN files resulted in less removal of cervical dentin compared to apical dentin.
Regression without regrets – initial data analysis is an essential prerequisite to multivariable regression
Authors: Heinze Georg , Baillie Mark , Lusa Lara , Sauerbrei Willi , Schmidt Carsten Oliver , Harrell Frank E. , Huebner Marianne
Published: November 2023

Statistical regression models are used for predicting outcomes based on the values of some predictor variables or for describing the association of an outcome with predictors. With a data set at hand, a regression model can be easily fit with standard software packages. This bears the risk that data analysts may rush to perform sophisticated analyses without sufficient knowledge of basic properties, associations in and errors of their data, leading to wrong interpretation and often questionable presentation of the modeling results. Ignorance about special features of the data such as redundancies or particular distributions may even invalidate the chosen analysis strategy. The main aim of initial data analysis (IDA) in the context of regression analyses is seen in providing knowledge about the data to confirm the appropriateness of or to refine a chosen model building strategy, to interpret the modeling results correctly, and to guide the presentation of modeling results. In order to facilitate reproducibility, IDA needs to be preplanned, an IDA plan should be included in the general statistical analysis plan of a research project, and results should be well documented. Biased statistical inference of the final regression model can be minimized if IDA abstains from evaluating associations of outcome and predictors, a key principle of IDA. We give advice on which aspects to consider in an IDA plan for data screening in the context of regression modeling to supplement the statistical analysis plan. We illustrate this IDA plan for data screening in an example of a typical diagnostic modeling project and give recommendations for data visualizations.
Future precipitation projections for Brazil and tropical South America from a Convection-permitting climate simulation
Authors: Kahana Ron , Halladay Kate , Alves Lincoln Muniz , Chadwick Robin , Hartley Andrew J.
Published: November 2023

Understanding precipitation properties at regional scales and generating reliable future projections is crucial in providing actionable information for decision-makers, especially in regions with high vulnerability to climate change, where future changes impact ecosystem resilience, biodiversity, agriculture, water resources and human health. The South America Convection-Permitting Regional Climate Model experiment (SA-CPRCM) examines climate change effects in convection-permitting simulations at 4.5 km resolution, on climate time scales (10 years of present-day and RCP8.5 2100), over a domain covering most of South America, using the Met Office Unified Model (UM) convection-permitting RCM. Under the RCP8.5 scenario, precipitation in the CPRCM decreases, becomes less frequent and more seasonal over the Eastern Amazon region. Dry spells lengthen, increasing the risk of drought. In the Western Amazon, precipitation increases in the wetter austral autumn (Apr. – Jun.) and decreases in the drier austral winter and spring (July – Oct.), leading to a more distinct dry season and imposing a greater risk of contraction of the tropical forest. Over South-eastern Brazil, future precipitation increases and becomes more frequent and more intense, increasing the risk of floods and landslides. A future increase in the intensity of precipitation and extremes is evident over all these regions, regardless of whether the mean precipitation is increasing or decreasing. The CPRCM and its driving GCM respond in a similar way to the future forcing. The models produce broadly similar large-scale spatial patterns of mean precipitation and comparable changes to frequency, intensity, and extremes, although the magnitude of change varies by region and season.
Type III Percheron’s variant in thalamic-mesencephalic infarction The unexpected anastomosis
Authors: Zedde Marialuisa , Grisendi Ilaria , Assenza Federica , Vandelli Gabriele , Moratti Claudio , Napoli Manuela , Valzania Franco , Pascarella Rosario
Published: November 2023

Introduction. Arterial supply of thalamus is complex and highly variable. In particular, the distribution pattern of thalamoperforating arteries received attention some decades ago, but not in recent years.
Methods. We are presenting the case of a 46-year-old patient with wake-up drowsiness, complex oculomotor disorder and dysarthria. The brain CT showed a subacute ischemic stroke in the right anterior thalamus and rostral midbran with a normal CTA. DSA was performed, showing a variant of thalamic supply (Percheron type III), constituted by perforating branches arising from an artery bridging the P1 segments of both PCAs.
Discussion. Thalamus has a complex and variable arterial supply, mainly in the paramedian thalamic-mesencephalic arteries. The most reported variant is Percheron type IIb and supplies the paramedian thalami and the rostral midbrain. Type IIb occlusion usually causes a bilateral paramedian thalamic stroke, but rostral midbrain and anterior thalamus are involved in 57% and 19% cases. Type III variant probably prevented the bilateral extension of infarction and involved the territory of tuberothalamic and paramedian perforating arteries.
Conclusions. Currently, DSA allows directly imaging variants in thalamic vascularization and better understanding the stroke mechanisms. The use of increasingly efficient angiographic techniques could help define the anatomical and hemodynamic factors involved in causing ischemic lesions in territories previously considered difficult to explore.
Variables related to soil fertility in successional agroforestry systems – Serras do Sudeste, RS, Brazil
Authors: Hanke Daniel , Nascimento Shirley Grazieli da Silva , Dick Déborah Pinheiro , Vieira Renan Costa Beber , Deble Leonardo Paz
Published: November 2023

Successional agroforestry systems have the capacity to increase soil fertility and restore degraded ecosystems. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of agroforestry systems, at different stages of ecological succession, on the dynamics of chemical and physical soil fertility attributes in the Brazil South region. Soil samples were collected under five different conditions: i) Control (T) = initial system (without agroforestry); ii) SAF1 = agroforestry with 1 year of development; iii) SAF3 = agroforestry with 3 years of development; iv) SAF7 = agroforestry with 7 years of development; and v) reference system (naturally regenerating forest with 30 years). Subsequently, determinations/calculations were carried out for chemical attributes/parameters (exchangeable Ca+ 2, Mg+ 2, K+, Na+, P, Al+ 3, H+, sum of bases, effective and potential cation exchange capacity, cation exchange saturation with bases and Al+ 3), physical attributes (soil bulk density, particle density, total porosity, and moisture), and soil physicochemical properties (pH H2O, pH in saline solutions, and SMP method), as well as chemical element stocks were calculated based on soil mass in each sampled layer. Results indicated an increase in pH, total porosity, and nutrient stocks with the systems' development time, accompanied by a decrease in acidity components. The change in soil fertility is directly related to the increase in soil organic matter content.
PIGR predicts good clinical outcomes and plays a tumor suppressor role in the development of breast cancer via enhancing tumor immunity
Authors: Sun Zhi , Tan Bei , Dong Ke , Pu Qian , Gao Haidong , Li Peng , Zhao Guanghui
Published: November 2023

Background: Breast cancer (BRCA) is a phenotypically and functionally heterogeneous disease. It is necessary to discover new biomarkers or therapeutic targets to improve treatment effects. Polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIGR) plays an anti-cancer role in a variety of human malignancies. This study aimed to explore the prognostic significance and possible functional mechanism of PIGR in BRCA tissues.
Methods: We examined the expression level of PIGR in BRCA and normal breast tissues. Effects of PIGR on the proliferation, clone formation, and migration of BRCA cells were explored. We used logistic regression analysis to test the correlation between PIGR expression and clinicopathological characteristics of BRCA patients. The prognostic significance of PIGR in BRCA was investigated via the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox analysis. The GSEA method was used to discover the biological processes and pathways of PIGR co-expression genes enriched.
Results: The expression level of PIGR was down-regulated in BRCA tissues. CCK-8 proliferation and colony formation assay demonstrated that PIGR could not affect BRCA cell proliferation and clone formation but could increase migration. The GSEA revealed PIGR co-expression genes joined mainly in the immune response. The expression level of PIGR significantly correlated to the infiltration of immune cells and the abundance of immune-related molecules.
Conclusions: PIGR was an independent protective factor for BRCA patients’ prognosis. PIGR correlated with tumor immunity and exerted antitumor effects in BRCA. PIGR might be a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target.
Exploring the source of ESBL_producing Escherichia coli in a small-scale poultry farm with minimal biosecurity
Authors: Sharmila Latchubhukta , Pal Arijit , Biswas Ripan , Batabyal Kunal , Dey Samir , Joardar Siddhartha Narayan , Dutta Tapan Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Samiran , Samanta Indranil , Pal Surajit
Published: November 2023

Background
In commercial broiler farms, the dissemination of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli presents a significant concern. These bacteria may spread vertically from parental stock or horizontally through contaminated feed, water, and infected companion birds. Understanding the transmission dynamics of ESBL-E. coli in small-scale poultry farms in rural settings is crucial.
Methods
We conducted a comprehensive study on a small-scale poultry farm in West Bengal, India. A total of 120 samples were collected at three different intervals (0th, 20th, and 40th day) of the production cycle, including cloacal swabs (n = 49), drinking water (n = 36), and feed (n = 35). All E. coli isolates were tested for resistance to eight antimicrobial agents. ESBL-producing E. coli was confirmed using the double-disc test. Furthermore, we conducted PCR to detect major ESBL genes, followed by sequencing of selected PCR products.
Results
We recovered a total of 173 E. coli isolates from the samples. These isolates exhibited varying degrees of resistance, with 100% resistance to cefixime, 83.3% to amoxicillin, 50% to tetracycline, and 33.3% to enrofloxacin. The occurrence of ESBL-E. coli initially decreased from day-old production to the 20th day but then increased in the subsequent 21st -40th day of the production cycle. Genotyping of ESBL revealed dynamic changes, with a progressive decrease in the occurrence of blaCTX-M and blaSHV in cloacal swabs and a corresponding increase in drinking water and feed. Notably, blaCTX-M-15 emerged as the predominant resistance determinant among antibiotic-resistant genes.
Conclusions
Our study sheds light on the probable vertical transmission of ESBL-E. coli from the parent flock to the studied birds, with a decrease observed up to the 20th day of the production cycle. Additionally, our findings highlight drinking water as a potential source of on-farm horizontal transmission of ESBL-E. coli. To prevent the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in birds and their products, it is essential for small-scale poultry farms to adopt strict biosecurity measures and maintain high hygiene standards. These insights have critical implications for poultry farming practices and public health.
Melatonin inhibits small extracellular vesicle delivery and CTNND1 reduces the migration ability of bladder cancer cells
Authors: Cao Jinhua , Wu Jinpeng , Fan Ning , Ge Miaomiao , Lu Yurong
Published: November 2023

Purpose Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have emerged as critical mediators of intercellular communication, capable of shuttling functional molecules from donor to recipient cells. Their direct impact on target cells can profoundly influence local and systemic environments, thereby promoting cancer growth and metastasis. Although several studies have explored the relationship between sEVs and various types of cancer, only few studies have been conducted on bladder cancer specifically.Methods This study used an in vitro approach and multiple assays to investigate whether melatonin affects catenin delta 1 (CTNND1) transmission through sEVs and how CTNND1 regulates the growth and migration of bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) cells.Results We observed significantly elevated CTNND1 levels in BLCA cells. CTNND1 secreted by these cells could be delivered to recipient cells via sEVs. We further uncovered significant alterations in cellular behaviors upon delivery of sEVs, namely in terms of proliferation and migration. By delineating the biological functions of CTNND1 in BLCA cells, we have unveiled the potential of modulating CTNND1 expression as a promising avenue for clinical therapeutic intervention.Conclusion Our findings shed light on the intricate interplay between sEV-mediated cargo transfer and the regulation of CTNND1, offering valuable insights into novel therapeutic strategies for BLCA.
Prognostic and potential therapeutic roles of PRKDC expression in lung cancer
Authors: Xiong Jiani , DENG CUIMIN , Fu YunRong , Xie Jieming
Published: November 2023

PRKDC is a key factor involved in the ligation step of the non-homologous end joining pathway. Its dysfunction has proven to be a biomarker for radiosensitivity of cancer cells. Our previous study has shown that PRKDC mutations is associated with tumor immune response. However, the prognostic value of PRKDC at transcriptome levels and the underlying mechanisms have not been clarified yet. In this study, we analyzed the PRKDC mRNA levels in pan-cancer datasets and examined its prediction value in prognosis, immunotherapy and chemotherapeutic responses. We found that PRKDC overexpression is a risk factor for many cancers and is correlated with immunotherapy resistance. It is also significantly related to homologous recombination deficiency. As the results are remarkably significant in lung cancer, we therefore further confirmed the antitumor efficacy of PRKDC inhibitors alone or combine with cisplatin in vitro in human lung cancer cells. This study demonstrated that PRKDC is a potential prognostic biomarker, immunotherapy target, and promising combination candidate for PARP inhibitors and cisplatin respectively, in human cancers, particularly for lung cancer, and highlight the potential of PRKDC targeted inhibitors for treatment of lung cancer.
Past and present: a bibliometric study on the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer
Authors: Hao Xiao-yuan , Li Miao-ling , Song Wen-wei , Guo Yi
Published: November 2023

Background
Ovarian cancer (OC) is a gynecological malignancy with high mortality worldwide. The poor prognosis of OC is usually attributed to its recurrence-prone signature. Recently, mortality from OC has exhibited a downward trend. These favorable patterns likely find their main driving factor in advancements in novel therapeutic regimens. However, visualized analysis of the application of these new drugs on women with recurrent OC (ROC) is lacking. Therefore, we aimed to summarize changing paradigms in the ROC treatment using the bibliometric method.
Methods
Documents on ROC treatment were systematically collected from the MEDLINE database and Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC). The retrieved documents were exported in the plain text file format, and files were named and saved to the paths specified by the Java application. Microsoft Excel (version 2010), Citespace (6.2.R4) and VOSviewer (1.6.19) were used for data analysis and included the following: (1) annual publication trend; (2) contributions of countries, institutions and authors; (3) co-citation of journals and references; and (4) co-occurrence of keywords.
Results
A total of 914 documents published in the MEDLINE and 9,980 ones in WOSCC were retrieved. There has been an upward trend in the productivity of publications on ROC treatment on by years. The United States was the leading contributor in this field, and the University of Texas System was the most productive institution. Giovanni Scambia and Maurie Markman were the research leaders for ROC treatment. Gynecologic Oncology was the journal with most citation frequency. The reference entitled with “Niraparib Maintenance Therapy in Platinum-Sensitive, Recurrent Ovarian Cancer” got highest centrality of 0.14 in the co-citation network. Keyword analysis indicated that current treatment of ROC mainly focused on the platinum-based anticancer drugs, paclitaxel, angiogenesis inhibitors (AIs) and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPis).
Conclusion
Scholars from all over the world have taken active part in the development of ROC treatment. International top journals and professional periodicals on gynecologic oncology have been the main sources of the hotspots and frontiers in this field. Maintenance treatment based on AIs or (and) PARPis has become an important adjunct to chemotherapy based on platinum agents and paclitaxel for ROC patients.
Rotational tectonics and topography evolution: Insights from localized vs. diffuse plate boundary counterparts
Authors: Kundu Bhaskar , Zwaan Frank , Senapati Batakrushna
Published: November 2023

Geodetic observations and analogue modelling results suggest a striking similarity between the rotational tectonic settings of the Gakkel Ridge-Chersky Range system in the Arctic and the Central Indian Tectonic Zone within the Indian subcontinent. A crucial aspect of large-scale extensional rift systems, is the gradual variation of deformation along the rift axis, due to rotation about a vertical axis or Euler pole, which may lead to compression and extension on the other side of the Euler pole to form a rotational tectonic system. Our geodetic and topographic analysis demonstrates such rotational tectonic motion in both the Arctic and Indian case, even though the plate boundary between the North America plate and the Eurasia plate that is represented by the Arctic Gakkel Ridge-Chersky Range system is strongly localized, whereas the Central Indian Tectonic Zone involves rather a diffuse deformation along its axis. Our reanalysis of analogue modelling results complements the geodetic and topographic observations. We furthermore find that in both the Arctic and the Central Indian Tectonic Zone the spatial location of the relative Euler rotation pole is located near an indenter-like feature, which possibly controls the present-day rotational tectonics and contrasting topography on either side of the rotation pole. Our study illustrates that the tectonic setting of the Gakkel-Chersky Range system in the Arctic is a localized plate boundary counterpart of the diffuse plate boundary along the Central Indian Tectonic Zone in Central India.
The Phyllosphere of Nigerian Medicinal Plants Euphorbia lateriflora and Ficus thonningii is inhabited by a specific Microbiota
Authors: Oaikhena Anderson O , Coker Morenike E , Cyril-Okoh Dorothy , Berg Gabriele , Okeke Iruka N
Published: November 2023

Background
Medicinal plant microbiota is highly specific and can contribute to medicinal activity. However, the majority of plant species have not yet been studied. Here, we investigated the phyllosphere composition of two common Nigerian medicinal plants, Euphorbia lateriflora and Ficus thonningii, by a polyphasic approach combining analyses of metagenomic DNA and isolates.
Results
Microbial abundance estimated via qPCR using specific marker gene primers showed that all leaf samples were densely colonized with up to 108 per gram of leaf with higher bacterial and fungal abundance than Archaea. While no statistically significant differences between both plant species were found for abundance, amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS genes revealed a distinct microbiota composition, and only seven of the 27 genera isolated were represented on both plants. We observed dominance of Sphingomonas spp. on both plants, and members of Xanthomonadaceae and Enterobacteriaceae were also found in high numbers. The most dominant fungal families on both plants were Cladosporiaceae, Mycosphaerellaceae and Trichosphaeriaceae. In addition, 225 plant-specific isolates were identified, with Pseudomonadota and Enterobacteriaceae being dominant. Interestingly, 29 isolates are likely species previously unknown, and 14 of these belong to Burkholderiales. However, a high proportion, 56% and 40% of the isolates from E. lateriflora and F. thonningii, respectively, were characterized as various Escherichia coli. The growth of most of the bacterial isolates was not influenced by extractable secondary metabolites of plants.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that a specific and diverse microbial community inhabits the leaves of both plants, including potentially new species and producers of antimicrobials.
Integrin-YAP/TEAD Feedback Loop Promotes Tumor Invasion by Enhanced Cell Adhesion and Cell Proliferation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chang Le , Bi Xingang , Chang Chen , Wang Jianhua
Published: November 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of liver cancer with a high mortality rate. Hepatocellular carcinoma cells are known to invade surrounding tissues and organs which is a complicated process involving a number of unknown variables, such as many signaling pathways (e.g., integrins and IL-6/STAT3) or mechanical factors (e.g., stiffness). Finding successful therapies would benefit from knowing the specifics of the molecular mechanisms behind cellular activities (cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation). In this paper, we found that ITGB1, YAP1, TEAD1/3 expressions were all upregulated in tumor tissue, and ITGB1 had a significant positive correlation with YAP1 and TEAD1/3. We demonstrated through experiments and mathematical modeling that YAP/TEAD could regulate the expression of ITGB1, thus forming an obvious ITGB1-YAP/TEAD positive feedback loop. The experimental results also showed that PFL significantly enhanced the cell proliferation and migration ability. Finally, we used the cellular Potts model (CPM) to demonstrate that tumor cells with ITGB1-YAP/TEAD positive feedback loop can significantly have a stronger invasive capacity.
Oral Health Status of Hearing-Impaired Children – A cross-sectional study conducted in Karachi, Pakistan.
Authors: Anwar Madiha Anwar , Alam Beenish Fatima , Rizvi Kulsoom Fatima , Moin Maria , Haider Muhammad Mohsin , Ansari Asma Sehar , Bashir Muhammad Bilal
Published: November 2023

Background
This study aimed to assess the oral health status of hearing-impaired children in Karachi, Pakistan. It aimed to investigate specific challenges faced by this population and highlight disparities in oral health outcomes.
Methods
The study utilized a cross-sectional design and enrolled hearing-impaired children from various schools in Karachi. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and clinical examinations. Variables examined included oral hygiene practices, plaque scores, DMFT scores, socioeconomic status, and dietary habits.
Results
Majority of participants were male (53.9%) and aged between 5–20 years. Most participants had mild (23.6%) or moderate (31.6%) hearing impairment, and the mothers had primarily received primary education (27.3%). Sign language was the primary means of communication (64.6%) with the children, and the majority belonged to the lower middle class (33.2%) and lower class (31.4%). The mean Plaque Index score was significantly higher for children with severe deafness compared to those with mild deafness (3.3 ± 1.1 vs. 2.1 ± 0.8, p < 0.05). In primary dentition, children with complete deafness had a significantly higher mean DMFT score compared to those with mild deafness (0.14 ± 0.06 vs. 0.01 ± 0.06, p < 0.05). Similarly, in permanent dentition, children with moderate deafness had a significantly higher mean DMFT score compared to those with mild deafness (0.13 ± 0.12 vs. 0.11 ± 0.07, p < 0.05). Multinomial regression analysis identified significant associations (p < 0.05) between periodontal disease, DMFT and factors such as maternal education, sociodemographic status, brushing frequency, hearing impairment level, and plaque index.
Conclusion
The study emphasizes the specific challenges and disparities in oral health faced by hearing-impaired children in Karachi, Pakistan. Socioeconomic factors, limited access to hearing aids, poor oral hygiene practices, and high sugar consumption contribute to compromised oral health outcomes. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, improved oral health education, and increased accessibility to dental care.