bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Graph Energy in Glaucoma detection using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Hari Kamya , Rajeshwar Kruthi , B Praba
Published: April 2023

Automatic detection of glaucoma from retinal fundus images is a major area of research in Computer aided diagnostics. In this paper, we propose a novel methodology to detect glaucoma by using energy of graph concepts. The retinal fundus image is first segmented to get the structure of the retinal vasculature using various image processing techniques. The retinal vasculature is then modeled into two graphs based on the position of branchpoints and the crossover points in the image. The graphs thus formed are simplified and 6 different energies are extracted from it. These energies are then used as features to a machine learning model i.e., quadratic support vector machine after performing principal component analysis. The methodology was tested out on the G1020 dataset and the results obtained show that energy of graphs does contain discriminating information regarding disease detection.
Not so sweet: Impacts of a soda tax on producers
Authors: Gonçalves Judite , Merenda Roxanne , Santos João Pereira dos
Published: April 2023

Portugal introduced a sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) tax in 2017. This study uses unique administrative accounting data for all SSB producers/importers in Portugal, and an event study design with bottled water firms as the primary comparison group, to assess the causal impacts of the tax on multiple firm-level outcomes. We find a 6.8% average decrease in domestic SSB sales, vis-à-vis bottled water. The soda tax hindered SSB firms’ financial health, namely net income, ability to convert receivables into cash, and liabilities. SSB producers/importers did not decrease wages, cut jobs, or modify their workforce towards higher R&D capacity. Forgone corporate income tax appears negligible compared to the government revenue generated by the tax itself.
Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance mediated by the acetyltransferase MYS-2/MOF in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Li Yuhong , Bai Hua , Liu Wenwen , Wu Tingting , Gu Huan , Shi Guolin , Zhu Man , Zhao Ninghui , Huang Xiaowei
Published: April 2023

Background Although autosomal-dominant inheritance is believed to be an important cause of familial clustering AD (FAD), it covers only a small proportion of FAD incidence. Epigenetic memory has been suggested an alternative mechanism to explain transgenerational phenotypes in animals, and may contribute to intergenerational AD pathogenesis.Methods We employed the methods of RNA interference, gene mutation, treatment of inhibitors or agonists, and Western blot, to investigate the roles of acetyltransferase MYS-2/MOF and its mediated H4K16 in transgenerational heredity of AD pathogenesis in C. elegans and cell AD models. To validate our findings, we also analyzed the MOF(KAT8) expression data in AD patients from Alzdata. Fluorescence staining and ELISA were performed to detect Aβ accumulation or lysosomal activities. Gene expression patterns and the potential target genes associated with AD pathogenesis were analyzed in parental and progeny generations using RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, and ChIP-qPCR.Results Our data in vivo showed that mys-2 of Caenorhabditis elegans that encodes a MYST acetyltransferase responsible for H4K16 acetylation modulated AD occurrence. The phenotypic improvements in the parent generation caused by mys-2 deficiency were passed to their progeny due to epigenetic memory, which resulted in similar H4 acetylation levels among the candidate target genes of MYS-2 and similar gene expression patterns of the AD-related pathways. Furthermore, the ROS/CDK-5/ATM pathway functioned as an upstream activator of MYS-2. Furthermore, we showed that the mammalian ortholog MOF had the same role in AD pathogenesis.Conclusions Our study indicated that AD could be inherited transgenerationally via epigenetic mechanisms, providing a new insight into our understanding of the etiology and inheritance of FAD.
Equivalent heat transfer modeling for poplar fiber clusters based on thermography
Authors: Yang Chunmei , Liu Tongbin , Ma Yaqiang , Zhu Zanbin , Yan Jie , Qu Wen , Zhang Jiawei , Ding Yucheng
Published: April 2023

Poplar fiber mass is a non-uniform medium that is composed of discrete microelements making it an imperative raw material in the production of ultra-thin high-density wood fiberboards. Preheating, therefore, becomes a crucial process in producing ultra-thin boards from poplar fiber masses. This study aims to investigate the thermal conductivity properties of wood fiber pellets with the objective of guiding the process parameters in the preheating section.Basic size and composition of poplar fiber masses were observed using an optical microscope. Measured parameters such as bark content and stacking density were combined with observations to establish the heat transfer unit of poplar fiber masses which were then used to develop a one-dimensional equivalent heat transfer model.The steady-state images of the surface layer of poplar fiber masses were captured under different parameters using infrared thermography. The results indicated that the relationships between thickness, density, and moisture content were negatively correlated with surface layer temperature, while the relationships between bottom heating temperature and surface layer temperature were positively correlated. From these findings, the surface layer temperature of poplar fiber mass was derived, and equivalent thermal conductivity as well as convective heat transfer coefficients were solved.Simulation results showed that the average error of the equivalent heat transfer model of poplar fiber mass was 1.584 indicating that the model is usable. This study contributes to efficient simulation of steady-state heat transfer in wood fiber masses, and could be useful in guiding decision-making processes in the preheating section of ultra-thin high-density fiberboard production.
Bi-directional electrical recording and stimulation of the intact retina
Authors: Vėbraitė Ieva , Bar-Haim Chen , David-Pur Moshe , Hanein Yael
Published: April 2023

Electrophysiological investigations of intact neural circuits are challenged by the gentle and complex nature of neural tissues. Bi-directional electrophysiological interfacing with the retina, in its intact form, is particularly demanding and currently there is no feasible approach to achieve such investigations. Here we present the use of novel soft multi electrode arrays for bi-directional electrophysiological study of the intact retina. To this aim, soft electrode arrays, suitable for stable electrical interfacing with the retina, were developed and tested. The soft probes were designed to accommodate the curvature of the retina in the eye and offer a unique opportunity to study the retina in its intact form. For the first time, we show both electrical recording and stimulation capabilities from the intact retina. In particular, we demonstrate the ability to map retina responses to electrical stimulation in order to reveal conspicuously, stable, direct and indirect responses. These results suggest that intact retinas retain better stability and robustness than ex-vivo retinas.
Go beyond the individual: an intersectional perspective on mental illness stigma in China
Authors: Lin Zhuyun
Published: April 2023

Background: Stigma is a pervasive and severe issue for individuals with mental illness in China. It is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is influenced by social, cultural, and political factors. However, few concerned about mental illness stigma in China through intersectional perspective. This study aims to employ an intersectional lens to examine mental illness stigma in China and explore its heterogeneity and the disparities it creates among patients. Methods: The study is based on 16 months of ethnographic research conducted in a psychiatric hospital in 2019. The study sample includes 11 patients, 3 patients’ family members, and 23 medical workers from F hospital in Guangdong province. Data were collected through participant observation, interviews, and document analysis. Results: The research reveals that mental illness stigma is deeply ingrained in Chinese society, affecting individuals not only at a personal level but also within their families, healthcare facilities, and wider institutions. The study underscores that, social determinants, including education, rural-urban disparity, and economic circumstances, exacerbate the deleterious effects of stigma. In addition, the research reveals that medical professionals harbor unfavorable attitudes towards their patients or families, and that such attitudes are reflected through cultural symbols, such as the creation of a "mental illness hierarchy" within hospitals based on patients' socioeconomic status. Furthermore, the study highlights that mental illness stigma is not a monolithic construct and is characterized by individual differences, and that its effects may be mitigated by time and the resilience and self-efficacy of patients. Conclusions: This study contributes to the understanding of mental illness stigma in China and informs future anti-stigma efforts. It highlights the need to consider not only the stigma attached to mental illness but also the broader socio-cultural factors that exacerbate the experiences of disadvantaged individuals. To effectively address stigma, it is vital to recognize its heterogeneity and its intersection with social, cultural, and political factors. The findings of this study have implications for mental health policy and practice in China and beyond.
Missing Canals in Endodontically Treated Molar Teeth Among Different Age Groups in a Turkish Population
Authors: Çulha Emre , Tunç Fatma
Published: April 2023

Objectives Root canal localization is necessary for proper canal disinfection and obturation. Missed canals may act as a microorganism repository. As the world's population ages, the endodontic needs of the elders present increasing challenges for dental care providers. This study aimed to examine the missing canals in terms of ageing in endodontically treated 1st and 2nd molars in a Turkish population.Materials and Methods The study included maxillary and mandibular molar teeth of 619 subjects (317 female and 302 male). Cone-beam computed tomography images of 490 molar teeth representing at least one missing canal were divided into 3 groups according to the age of the subjects: 18–44, 45–64, and more than 65. The localization of the missed canals was recorded. The data were evaluated with the chi-square test, with the significance level set at a p-value of 0.05.Results The incidence of missing 2nd mesiobuccal canals in the 18–44 age group and 1st mesiobuccal canals in the over-45 age group was statistically higher (p < 0.05). The incidence of missing 2nd mesiobuccal canals in maxillary 1st molars was statistically higher than in maxillary 2nd molars (p < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between the types of missing canals and age groups in mandibular molars (p > 0.05).Conclusion Missing canals were more frequent in the mesial roots of mandibular molars with ageing. With age, the incidence of missing canals increased in maxillary first molars but decreased in maxillary second molars.Clinical Relevance: Ageing can make it difficult to clinically locate the canals in the mesiobuccal root of maxillary molars and mesial roots of mandibular molars.
Evaluation of the effect of ZnO nanoparticles on biofilm formation and gene expression of the toxin-antitoxin system in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Valadbeigi Hassan , Sadeghifard Nourkhoda , Kaviar Vahab Hassan , Haddadi Mohammad Hossein , Ghafourian Sobhan , Maleki Abbas
Published: April 2023

Background Biofilm formation by P. aeruginosa is known to be characteristic of this organism. P. aeruginosa is considered one of the most life-threatening bacteria and has been identified as a priority pathogen for research by WHO. Biofilm-producing P. aeruginosa is a concern in many parts of the world due to antibiotic resistance. Alginate also plays an important role in biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa as well as in the emergence of antibiotic resistance in biofilms. In addition, TA systems play an important role in biofilm formation. Metal NPs such as ZnO also have extensive biological properties, especially anti-biofilm properties. Therefore, this study was conducted in relation to the importance of ZnO NPs in biofilm formation and also the correlation of gene expression of TA systems in clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa.Methods A total of 52 P. aeruginosa isolates were collected from burns (n = 15), UTI (n = 31), and trachea (n = 6) in hospitals in Ilam between May 2020 and October 2020. Biofilm formation was assessed using a microtiter plate assay. MIC and sub-MIC concentrations of ZnO NPs (10–30 nm with purity greater than 99.8%) in P. aeruginosa were determined. Subsequently, biofilm formation was investigated using sub-MIC concentrations of ZnO NPs. Finally, total RNA was extracted and RT- qPCR was used to determine the expression levels of genes of mazEF, mqsRA, and higBA of TA systems.Results Six isolates of P. aeruginosa were found to form strong biofilms. The results showed that ZnO NPs were able to inhibit biofilm formation. In our experiments, we found that sub-MIC concentration of ZnO NPs increased the gene expression of antitoxins mazE and mqsA and toxin higB of TA systems treated with ZnO NPs.Conclusions In the present study, ZnO NPs were shown to effectively inhibit biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa. Our results support the relationship between TA systems and ZnO NPs in biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa. Importantly, the expression of antitoxins mazE and mqsA was high after treatment with ZnO NPs, but not that of antitoxin higA.
Characteristics and Genesis of Dolomites from the Devonian Guanwushan Formation in the Jiguanshan Section, southwest Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Yang Chaoyi , Xia Qingsong , Wei Hengye , Yang Peng , Zhu Yunfang
Published: April 2023

The Guanwushan Formation of Middle Devonian in Sichuan Basin is an excellent oil and gas reservoir, but its genetic mechanism is still unclear, and previous studies mainly focus on the typical profile in northwest Sichuan. In this paper, the characteristics and genesis of dolomite in Guanwushan Formation are studied by taking the Jiguanshan section in southwest Sichuan as an example. The section of Jiguanshan in Chongzhou City is located in the middle of Longmen Mountain and the southwest of Chengdu. Through field profile measurement, petrological observation, isotope analysis, REE distribution mode analysis, fluid inclusion analysis, the following understandings are obtained. 1. The Guanwushan Formation of the profile is in conformity with the overlying Shawozi Formation and the underlying Jinbaoshi Formation; 2. The dolomite types developed in Guanwushan Formation in the profile mainly include reef dolomite, and “zebra” structure dolomite can be seen. 3. On the profile, a large number of organisms can be observed, mainly including tetragonal corals, transverse corals, cladocoropsis, etc. Under the microscope, corals with intact diaphragms can be observed on thin slices; 4. The Jiguanshan section is a platform margin facies deposit, located on the continental margin side of the carbonate platform; 5. The carbon and oxygen isotope contents in the samples are all within the distribution range of carbon and oxygen isotopes of seawater in the same period of the Devonian system. It is speculated that most of the dolomite in the study section are reef quasi contemporaneous dolomite, samples’ δ18O content can be divided into three types of dolomite according to different temperatures; The distribution pattern of rare earth elements in the sample shows obvious δCe negative anomaly, speculated to be Devonian sea water, or slightly modified Devonian sea water quasi syngenetic origin, with obvious zebra dolomite filling δEu positive anomaly is a typical hydrothermal dolomite; The inclusion homogenization temperature test shows that there are two different origins of dolomite on the profile.
Flower globose AgIn5S8/AgInS2-SnIn4S8 heterojunction composites constructed by microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis for enhanced photocatalytic efficiency toward methyl orange
Authors: Wang Run , Hu Tianyu , Liu Yannan , Liu Yin , Hou Jiaqi , Zhang Wenzhi , Li Li
Published: April 2023

Ternary metal sulfides normally have narrow band gap energy levels, leading to fast recombination of photogenerated electron pairs. Design and construction of composites with heterojunctions is one of the effective ways to improve this disadvantage. In this paper, different ratios of AgInS2-SnIn4S8 composites were synthesized by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, and the molar ratio of SnIn4S8:AgInS2=0.5:1 was determined as the optimal ratio based on the experimental results of visible photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO). Furthermore, AgIn5S8/AgInS2-SnIn4S8 composites were successfully prepared by changing the feeding ratio of In and S elements. The constitution, structural morphology and surface physicochemical properties of the composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), photoluminescence (PL), ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance absorption spectroscopy (UV–vis/DRS) and nitrogen adsorption–desorption tests. The results show that AgIn5S8/AgInS2-SnIn4S8 composites have a flower globose structure with uniform size distribution, and AgInS2 and AgIn5S8 are compounded with SnIn4S8 to form a heterogeneous structure. After recombination, light absorption properties are changed and light absorption range is broadened due to stronger light absorption capacity in AgInS2 and AgIn5S8. As they have matched energy band structures, the electron transfer paths are increased and the e-–h+ lifetime is prolonged, which leads to enhanced photocatalytic performance of AgIn5S8/AgInS2-SnIn4S8 composites. Moreover, the formation of regular and homogeneous flower globose structure under the effect of microwave polarization also has an important contribution to the improvement of their photocatalytic performance. AgIn5S8/AgInS2-SnIn4S8 composites exhibit a certain degradation ability towards MO, and the degradation is almost complete within 180 min under UV light. Finally, through trapping experiments with the addition of different radical trapping agents, photocatalytic active species are identified, and thus the possible photocatalytic reaction mechanism of AgIn5S8/AgInS2-SnIn4S8 composites was inferred.
Induced neural stem cells regulate microglial activation through Akt-mediated upregulation of CXCR4 and Crry in a mouse model of closed head injury
Authors: Gao Mou , Dong Qin , Zou Dan , Yang Zhijun , Guo Lili , Chen Zhanfeng , Xu Ruxiang
Published: April 2023

Microglial activation that occurs rapidly after closed head injury (CHI) may play important and complex roles in the process of neuroinflammation-associated neuronal damage and repair. We previously reported that induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) have the potential to modulate the behaviour of activated microglia via CXCL12/CXCR4 signalling, influencing their activation such that they can promote neurological recovery. However, the mechanism of CXCR4 upregulation in iNSCs remains unclear. In this study, we found that NF-κB activation induced by CHI mouse serum in microglia promoted CXCL12 and TNF-α expression but suppressed IGF-1 expression. However, CR2-Crry reduced the effects of CHI mouse serum-induced NF-κB activation in microglia and the levels of activated microglia as well as CXCL12 and TNF-α. Additionally, we observed that iNSCs can receive stimulation (including CXCL12 secreted by activated microglia) and upregulate the levels of CXCR4 and Crry via the interplay among CXCL12/CXCR4, Crry and Akt signalling to modulate microglial activation. In agreement with the in vitro experimental results, Akt activation enhanced the immunoregulatory effects of iNSC grafts on microglial activation leading to the promotion of neurological recovery via IGF-1 secretion and the neuroprotective effects of iNSC grafts through CXCR4 and Crry upregulation in the injured cortices of CHI mice. Notably, these beneficial effects of Akt activation in iNSCs were positively correlated with the therapeutic effects of iNSCs on neuronal injury, cerebral oedema and neurological disorders post-CHI.
Arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation for complex tibial plateau fracture: Radiographic and clinical outcomes with 2- to 15-year follow-up
Authors: Cheng You-Hung , Yang Cheng-Pang , Chang Shih-Sheng , Weng Chun-Jui , Chiu Chih-Hao , Chan Yi-Sheng
Published: April 2023

Background
To investigate the radiologic and prognostic outcomes after using arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) in complex tibial plateau fractures with mid- to long-term follow-up.
Methods
This retrospective study reviewed complex tibial plateau fractures that underwent ARIF from 1999 to 2019. Radiologic outcomes, including tibial plateau angle (TPA), posterior slope angle (PSA) and Rasmussen radiologic assessment,were measured and evaluated. The prognosis and complications were assessed by the Rasmussen clinical assessment with a minimum follow-up of 2 years.
Results
Ninety-two consecutive patients (mean age: 46.9 years) with a mean follow-up of 74.8 months (24 to 180) were included in our series. Using AO classification, there were 20 type C1 fractures, 21 type C2 fractures, and 51 type C3 fractures. All the fractures achieved solid union. TPA was maintained well on average atthe last follow-up and showed no significant difference comparedto postoperatively (p=0.208). In the sagittal plane, the mean PSA increased from 9.3± 2.9° to 9.6 ± 3.1° (p=0.092). A statistically significantincrease in PTA was also noted in the C3 group (p=0.044). Superficial or deep infection was noted in 4 cases (4.3%), and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was performed in 2 cases (2.2%) due to posttraumaticosteoarthritis (OA). Ninety (97.8%) and 89 (96.7%) patients had good or excellent results in the Rasmussen radiologic assessment and Rasmussen clinical assessment, respectively.
Conclusions
The complextibial plateau fracture could be treated successfully using arthroscopy-assisted reduction and internal fixation. Most patientsachieve excellent and good clinical outcomes with low complication rates. In our experience, a higher incidence of increased slope was noted,especially in type C3 fractures. Reduction of the posterior fragment should be done cautiously during the operation.
Levels of evidence: Level III
Analysis of differentially expressed genes and biological information between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis based on the GEO database
Authors: Li Zeli , Li Shuwen , Li Guohai , Xiong Qianwen , Zhang Jietong , Li Zhicheng , He Jiuhong , Wang Siying , Xu Nenggui
Published: April 2023

Objective: In the present study, we investigated the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and knee osteoarthritis (OA) using bioinformatics, aiming to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of RA and explore the possible mechanism of RA.
Methods: The GSE55584 and GSE153015 microarray datasets for RA and OA gene expression profiles were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The DEGs of the two datasets were obtained by R language processing and analysis. The intersectingDEGs were obtained using the Venny 2.1 platform. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genome (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed using the DAVID platform, and the microbubble map was drawn online by importing the microbubble generation platform. All the obtained DEGs and the intersecting DEGs were imported into the STRING platform to obtain a protein‒protein interaction network (PPI) and then into Cytoscape 3.9.1 software to screen core genes (hub genes).
Results: A total of 665 DEGs were obtained from the GSE55584 and GSE153015 datasets, including 324 upregulated and 341 downregulated DEGs. GO enrichment analysis showed that the biological processes in which DEGs were mainly enriched included signal transduction, immune response, inflammatory response, adaptive immune response, and G protein-coupled receptor signalling pathway. KEGG enrichment analysis of the DEGs identified the following enriched pathways: cytokine‒cytokine receptor interaction; chemokine signalling pathway; viral protein interaction with cytokines and cytokine receptors; and apoptosis. Ten core genes (hub genes) were screened out, namely, CD3D, CD27, KLRB1, CCL5, GZMB, GZMA, GZMK, GNLY, CD2, and NKG7. Among them, CD3D, CD27, KLRB1, CCL5, and GZMB were most significantly correlated with the occurrence and development of RA.
Conclusion: In the present study, bioinformatics analysis provided supporting evidence for the biological process and key genes of RA.
The performance of duplex ultrasonography for the assessment of renal artery stenosis in Takayasu’s arteritis patients
Authors: WANG Yahong , Wang Ying , Zhang Li , Ge Zhitong , Li jing , Yang Yunjiao , Chen Yu , Yang Xiao , Li Jianchu , Tian Xinping
Published: April 2023

Background:
This study intends to analyze the renal artery hemodynamic parameters in Takayasu’s arteritis (TAK) patients, so as to explore the diagnostic value of duplex ultrasonography in the involved renal artery of TAK patients.
Methods:
115 TAK patients with 314 renal arteries were retrospectively analyzed, who were admitted to Peking Union Medical College Hospital from 2017 to 2022 and underwent both renal artery ultrasonography and angiography within 4 weeks. Seven ultrasonic parameters were compared among groups with different degrees (noninvolvement, <50% stenosis, 50%-69% stenosis, 70%-99% stenosis) of renal artery stenosis (RAS). Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs) were used to obtain the optimal threshold of renal artery PSV (RPSV), the renal-aortic PSV ratio (RAR), and renal-interlobar PSV ratio (RIR) for diagnosing different degrees of RAS in TAK patients.
Results:
There were statistically significant differences in RAR and RIR among the four groups (all P < 0.05), while there were no statistically significant differences in RPSV and AT between the moderate stenosis group (50%-69% stenosis) and the severe stenosis group (70%-99% stenosis). The discrimination of interlobar PSV(IPSV) and interlobar RI (IRI) was not significant, while IEDV was not statistically significant among the four groups.
For TAK patients, the optimal thresholds of RPSV for diagnosing renal artery involvement (RAI), ≥ 50 % RAS and ≥ 70 % RAS were 143cm/s, 152cm/s and 183cm/s, respectively, with the sensitivities, specificities and accuracies all higher than 80%. The optimal thresholds of RIR for detecting RAI, ≥50% RAS and ≥70% RAS are 4.6, 5.6 and 6.4, respectively with satisfied diagnostic efficiencies. The areas under the curve (AUCs) of RPSV and RIR are 0.908 and 0.910 for diagnosing ≥ 50% RAS, and 0.876, 0.882 for diagnosing ≥ 70% RAS. When aortic PSV ≥ 140cm/s, RAR has an unsatisfied diagnostic efficiency and when aortic PSV < 140cm/s, RAR ≥ 2.2 can be used as the diagnostic threshold for ≥ 70 % RAS with a sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy of 84.00%, 89.93% and 89.08%, respectively.
Conclusion:
RPSV and RIR are still most valuable ultrasonic diagnostic parameters for RAS in TAK patients, but the optimal thresholds of them are different from the diagnostic criteria established based on atherosclerotic patients. For RAR, its diagnostic value should be judged according to the degree of aortic stenosis.
Microbiota and nutrient portraits of European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) rumen contents in characteristic southern German habitats
Authors: Dahl Sarah-Alica , Seifert Jana , Silva Amélia Camarinha , Hernández-Arriaga Angélica , Hudler Martina , Windisch Wilhelm , König Andreas
Published: April 2023

Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) are now found in various habitat types, from pure forest cultures to agricultural areas and mountains. In adapting to the geographically and seasonally differentiating food supply, they depend, above all, on an adapted microbiome. However, knowledge about the microbiome of wild ruminants is still minimal, and there are a few publications for individual species with a low number of samples. This study investigated the rumen content of roe deer from seven different characteristic Bavarian habitat types. The focus was on the composition of nutrients, fermentation products, and the rumen bacterial community. To guarantee a high informative value, a total of 311 roe deer samples were analysed. Significant differences in nutrient concentrations and microbial composition were identified for the factor’s habitat, season and age class. These adaptations in the microbiota can be recognized, on the one hand, by specific concentrations of nutrients, and on the other hand, by strong fluctuations in the ingested forage. In addition, a core bacterial community could be identified, which forms the main component of the microbiota in each habitat. As with all wild ruminants, a large proportion of the microbial genera remain largely unclassified at various taxonomic levels. This study provides a more in-depth insight into the diversity and complexity of the roe deer rumen microbiota. It highlights the key microorganisms responsible for the conversion of naturally available nutrients of different botanical origins.
Values of Directors, Gender Diversity and Corporate Social Responsibility in the Industrial Region of Ghana
Authors: Kofinti Raymond Elikplim , Sebu Joshua , Cantah William Godfred , Nordjo Ralph Essem , Essilfie Gloria , Abakah Emmanuel Joel Aikins , Obeng Camara Kwasi , Asmah Emmanuel Ekow , Arku Godwin , Annim Samuel Kobina
Published: April 2023

In recent years, gender diversity has gained considerable attention at both the global and national levels and is aimed at multiple perspectives including governance and operations. However, the available evidence on the outcomes of gender diversity have been largely demonstrated for the developed world. The evidence for developing countries is rare to find or at best nascent. This calls for concern as the evidence from the global north may be at variance with the case of the global south due to differences in cultures, demographics, institutional quality, regulation and economic development. This study focuses on a developing country context to achieve the following two sequential objectives: examination of the gender gaps in values of female and male directors, and an investigation of the effect of gender diversity on corporate social responsibility. Using data collected on 312 medium and large firms in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and, values data on 792 respective directors of the firms comprising 292 female and 500 male directors, the Ordinary Least Square and Propensity Score Matching techniques are employed. Gender gaps in values were largely observed across male and female directors, with female directors ranking lower in power, but high in hedonism compared to the male directors. Gender diversity was observed to have corporate social responsibility increasing effects at the firm level. Relatively, gender diverse firms have the biggest effect in increasing ethical responsibility, followed by discretionary, economic and legal responsibilities respectively. Finally, we find a positive nonlinear relationship between gender diversity and corporate social responsibility akin to the critical mass theory. Overall, the findings on director values and gender diversity-corporate social responsibility linkage converge with that of the developed countries. Hence, we recommend intensifying gender quota and affirmation actions among corporate bodies in developing countries to promote socially responsible outcomes.
ACP-Dnnel: Anti-coronavirus Peptides Prediction based on Deep Neural Network Ensemble Learning
Authors: Liu Ming-You , Liu Hong-Mei , Wu Tao , Zhu Ying-Xue , Zhou Yu-Wei , Huang Zi-Ru , Xiang Chang-Cheng , Huang Jian
Published: April 2023

Background The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused global economic crisis and dramatic loss of human life. There is an urgent need for safe and efficient anti-coronavirus infection drugs. Anti-coronavirus peptides (ACovPs) can inhibit coronavirus infection. With high-efficiency, low-toxicity, and broad-spectrum inhibitory effects on coronaviruses, they are promising candidates to be developed into a new type of anti-coronavirus drug. Experiment is the traditional way of ACovPs identification, which is less efficient and more expensive. With the accumulation of experimental data on ACovPs, computational prediction provides a cheaper and faster way to find anti-coronavirus peptides candidates.Methods In this study, we integrated several state-of-the-art machine learning methodologies to build nine classification models for the prediction of ACovPs. These models were pretrained using deep neural networks, and the performance of our ensemble model, ACP-Dnnel, was evaluated across three datasets and independent dataset.Results The highest accuracy of ACP-Dnnel reaches 98%, and the MCC value exceeds 0.9. On three different datasets, its average accuracy is 96.33%. After the latest independent data set validation, ACP-Dnnel improved at MCC, Sn and ACC values by 10.1%, 16.4% and 7.3% respectively. It is suggested that ACP-Dnnel can be helpful for the laboratory identification of ACovPs, speeding up the anti-coronavirus peptide drug discovery and development. We constructed the web server of anti-coronavirus peptides prediction and it is available at http://150.158.148.228:5000/.
Energy aware Cluster based Routing Algorithm for Optimal Routing and Fault Tolerance in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Gorikapudi Sateesh , Kondaveeti Hari Kishan
Published: April 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A distinct wedge-shaped deformity of the thoracolumbar vertebrae in Lumbar Disc Degeneraion Patients
Authors: Gong Haoyu , Yan Jiajun , Fan Yunshan , Wu Xinbo , He Shisheng , Ni Haijian
Published: April 2023

Purpose. To determine how the shape of vertebral in thoracolumbar zoon may be associated with spine saggital balance and upper lumbar disc degeneration(ULDD).
Methods. Assessed the imaging of 58 patients who underwent operation at The Tenth People’s Hospital of Shanghai. MRI, CT and plain radiographs of the lumbar spine were evaluated. Vertebral deformities on plain radiographs were identified by wedge-shaped vertebral (WSV, wedge-shaped angle>5). These deformities were assessed for association with saggital balance alignment and ULDD.
Results. Cervical lordosis (CL), thoracic kyphosis (TK), and thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK) in thoracolumbar wedge-shaped vertebral (TLWSV) group were significantly greater than none wedged-shaped vertebral (NWSV) group (p<0.05). Besides, the upper lumbar disc Pfirrmann grades is also significantly greater in TLWSV group. However, sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and pelvic incidence (PI), C7 plumb line and T10 plumb line was similar between TLWSV group and NWSV group (P >0.05), which might is related with the compensation mechanism of spine.
Conclusion. This is the first study to examine WSV on plain radiographs of the lumbar spine for saggital balance alignment and ULDD. Patients with WSV in thoracolumbar regeion reported worsening spine saggital alignment and ULDD. This highlights the relationship between WSV and spine saggital alignment and suggests WSV may accelerate ULDD.
Level of Evidence: 3
The effect of polyindole-based binder-free coating on the corrosion behavior of mild steel in 3.5% NaCl solution
Authors: KARATEKİN Rukan SUNA , KILIÇ Özlem , KAPLAN Sedef , DÜDÜKCÜ Meltem KAHYA
Published: April 2023

The influence of three polyindole samples on the corrosion rate of mild steel (MS) in absence and presence of different amounts of acetonitrile was investigated in 1 M HClO4. All samples were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD), and contact angle measurements. Through measurements, it was determined that the polymers differ from each other on the basis of morphology, conjugation, molecular mass, and crystallinity. Also, it was found that all samples include FeCl3 used as an oxidant. Among the samples, PIn1 has the highest anti-corrosive property as it includes the highest amount of Fe and the highest density of hydrophobic group such as ClO4-. According to the results, it was found that PIn1 inhibited the cathodic corrosion reaction of MS in 3.5% NaCl and showed 98% protection efficiency.
mNFE: Microbiome network flow entropy for detecting pre-disease states of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Gao Rong , Li Peiluan , Ni Yueqiong , Peng Xueqing , Ren Jing , Chen Luonan
Published: April 2023

Background In the development of Type 1 diabetes (T1D), there are critical states just before drastic changes, and identifying these pre-disease states may predict T1D or provide crucial early-warning signals. Unlike gene expression data, gut microbiome data can be collected noninvasively from stool samples. Gut microbiome sequencing data contain different levels of phylogenetic information that can be utilized to detect the tipping point in a reliable manner, thereby providing more accurate and effective early-warning signals. However, it is still difficult to detect the critical state of T1D based on gut microbiome data due to generally non-significant differences between healthy and critical states.Results To address this problem, we proposed a new method—microbiome network flow entropy (mNFE) based on a single sample from each individual—for detecting the critical state before seroconversion and abrupt transitions of T1D at various taxonomic levels. The numerical simulation validated the robustness of mNFE under different noise levels. Furthermore, based on real datasets, mNFE successfully identified the critical states and their dynamic network biomarkers (DNBs) at different taxonomic levels. In addition, we found some high-frequency species, which are closely related to the unique clinical characteristics of autoantibodies at the four levels, and identify some non-differential ‘dark species’ play important roles during the T1D progression.Conclusions mNFE can robustly and effectively detect the pre-disease states at various taxonomic levels and identify the corresponding DNBs with only a single sample for each individual. Therefore, our mNFE method provides a new approach for personalized pre-disease diagnosis and further for T1D preventative treatment by gut microbiome.
Measurement Models with Binary Indicators: A Tutorial for the Assessment of Antenatal Care Quality
Authors: Passos Michelle P.V.D. , Almeida Josemir R. , Santos Ythalo H.S. , Junior Elzo P. Pinto , Flores-Quispe Maria del Pilar , Aquino Rosana , Martufi Valentina , Barreto Mauricio , Amorim Leila D.A.F.
Published: April 2023

Background: Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) is a methodology classically used to relate continuous (observed) indicators to latent variables through a measurement model. Estimation approaches have been proposed to deal with situations in which the indicators do not follow a multivariate normal distribution, particularly when they are asymmetric, ordinal or binary. Bayesian Confirmatory Factor Analysis (BCFA), which includes prior distributions for model parameters, has been used for such setups. Literature about CFA and BCFA for binary indicators is still scarce even though several applications in Epidemiology and Public Health could benefit from its use.
Objective: To systematize and discuss the main characteristics and computational implementation of the CFA and BCFA with binary indicators in R and Mplus software for the measurement of antenatal care quality in Primary Health Care (PHC) in Brazil.
Methods: Data from the external evaluation of the Brazilian National Program for the Improvement of Access to and Quality of Primary Health Care (PMAQ-AB) were used to assess the quality of antenatal care (construct). Ten binary (adequate/inadequate) indicators (items) were used in the measurement model considering the frequentist and Bayesian CFA.
Results: CFA results (standardized and unstandardized estimates, goodness-of-fit statistics and factor scores) were provided in R and Mplus. Reliability measures, however, are not readily available in Mplus. Estimates from CFA and BCFA were close using noninformative priors. Sensitivy analyses for priors specification do not indicate substantial changes in the results.
Conclusions: Measurement models with binary indicators, under both frequentist and Bayesian frameworks, should be considered more often as they can be applied in several health analyses for definition of constructs or latent variables. We provided a detailed tutorial, with recommendations and illustration of its use, that enhances the description of the characteristics of a population that can not be directly observed and/or are measured by a set of several indicators, such as quality of health care.
Correlation of microbiota and antibiotic resistance genes in the swine manure-soil interface in Chongming Island
Authors: Qian Jing , Wu Zheyuan , Zhu Yongzhang , Zhang Yan , Zhou Xiaonong , Guo Xiaokui , Liu Chang
Published: April 2023

Background: Swine farming is a widespread agricultural practice that produces a substantial amount of antibiotics and genes associated with antibiotic resistance in swine manure. The presence of these antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) poses a potential threat to the environment and human health. In order to investigate the microbiota and ARG profiles of swine manure and soil, samples from five swine farms on Chongming Island were collected and high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were conducted. The sequencing data and MetaCompare allowed us to estimate the risk of ARG transmission to human pathogens in the sampled environments and prioritize the potential for antibiotic resistance.Results: Significant differences in microbial communities and antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) profiles were revealed both in swine manure and soil samples from five farms. Bacteroidetes was the dominant phylum in swine manure, while Proteobacteria was dominant in soil. The abundance of different drug classes varied from manure to soil. Multidrug, tetracycline, glycopeptide, peptide, fluoroquinolone, beta-lactam, rifamycin, macrolide, and aminoglycoside were the main drug classes of ARGs identified in both samples, with a large proportion of macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin (MLS) and carbapenem resistance genes. Samples from the same farm showed a strong correlation in microbiota abundance and resistance gene diversity, indicating the effect of swine manure application and composting on the soil. However, microbial communities and ARGs varied among samples collected from different farms, influenced by factors including but not limited to feed composition, feeding density, husbandry practices, and sanitation. Beneficial bacteria in swine manure, including Bacillus spp., Eubacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., Blautia, Dorea, and Methanobrevibacter, had symbiotic relationships with one another at the pig manure-soil interface. These genera were able to inhibit the growth of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria, such as Escherichia spp. However, some beneficial bacteria, represented by the NmcR gene, may promote the spread of antimicrobial resistance. We also observed numerous symbiotic relationships between different species of drug resistance genes, including cdeA, Bbif_ileS_MUP, macB, patB, vanSD, and tetQ, among others. Microbiota were found to determine the composition of drug resistance gene profiles. Quantifying the health risks associated with antibiotic resistance can help us identify and mitigate the risk. The mean risk value of ARGs for swine manure and soil samples from the five farms was 23.42 and 22.23 respectively, with higher values indicating greater risk.Conclusion Our study sheds light on the complex relationships between microbiota and ARG profiles in swine manure and soil, and highlights the potential impact of swine farming practices on the environment and public health.
On the Usefulness of the Vector Field Singular Points Shapes for Classification
Authors: Igbasanmi Oluwaseyi , Sirakov Nikolay M.
Published: April 2023

The objects’ features play significant role in the machine learning (ML) classification. The present paper proofs and validates that the shapes of vector field (VF) singular points (SPs) embedded into image objects may improve classification accuracy. For this purpose the present paper develops two VFs vû and v ˆ ϕ with real and complex SPs. The VFs are developed on the solution û(x, y) of a particular form of the Poisson equation. Further, we define the mappings between the SPs of ∇û(x, y), vû and v ˆ ϕ. Next, we develop the local Polya’s model of a VF and prove that the shapes of the SPs are invariant according to scaling, translation and weak rotations. This property implies that embedding the shapes of the SPs into the image objects extends the set of objects features, which leads to the advantage of increasing the classification statistics. We validate the invariance and the advantage with sets of experiments classifying the public image datasets ISIC2020 and COIL100. For the purpose of classification, we designed a new convolution neural network optimized to classify SP shapes and image objects features. The paper ends with conclusions on the contributions, advantages and the bottlenecks of this study.
WITHDRAWN: An Improved High Step-Up DC-DC Converter for Electrical Machines and Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zarei Mehdi , Peng Huei
Published: April 2023

In this paper, an improved topology for a non-isolated high step-up DC-DC converter is proposed. The suggested converter has a straightforward structure, high voltage gains in comparison to the most non-isolated high gain structures shown in the literature, the low voltage stress on capacitors, low voltage stress on one of the switches and diodes, continuous input current, common ground, and low ripple in the output voltage and current. The continuous conduction mode (CCM) of the proposed converters, voltage stress on semiconductor devices, and component design are all fully considered in the mathematical analysis. The comparison results are addressed after the suggested converter has been compared to various converters offered in other references. The simulation findings of the proposed converter using PSCAD-EMTDC software are demonstrated to support the theoretical arguments.