bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genome of Citrus australasica reveals disease resistance and other species specific genes
Authors: Nakandala Upuli , Furtado Agnelo , Masouleh Ardashir Kharabian , Smith Malcolm W. , Williams Darren C. , Henry Robert J.
Published: October 2023

Background
The finger lime (Citrus australasica), one of six Australian endemic citrus species shows a high natural phenotypic diversity and novel characteristics. The wide variation and unique horticultural features have made this lime an attractive candidate for domestication. Here we present a high quality, haplotype-resolved reference genome for this species using PacBio HiFi and Hi-C sequencing.
Results
Hifiasm assembly and SALSA scaffolding resulted in a collapsed genome size of 344.2 Mb and 321.1 Mb and 323.2 Mb size for the two haplotypes. The nine pseudochromosomes of the collapsed genome had an N50 of 35.2 Mb, 99.1% genome assembly completeness and 98.9% gene annotation completeness (BUSCO). A total of 41,304 genes were predicted in the nuclear genome. Comparison with C. australis revealed that 13,661 genes in pseudochromosomes were unique in C. australasica. These were mainly involved in plant-pathogen interactions, stress response, cellular metabolic and developmental processes, and signal transduction. The two genomes showed a syntenic arrangement at the chromosome level with large structural rearrangements in some chromosomes. Genetic variation among five C. australasica cultivars was analysed. Genes related to defense, synthesis of volatile compounds and red/yellow coloration were identified in the genome. A major expansion of genes encoding thylakoid curvature proteins was found in the C. australasica genome.
Conclusions
This high quality, haplotype resolved genome contributes to our understanding of citrus evolution and reveals disease resistance and quality related genes with potential to accelerate the genetic improvement of citrus.
Transcriptome variations in hybrids of wild emmer wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccoides)
Authors: Ziv Alon , kashkush Khalil
Published: October 2023

Background
Wild emmer wheat is a great candidate to revitalize domesticated wheat genetic diversity. Recent years have seen intensive investigation into the evolution and domestication of wild emmer wheat, including whole-genome DNA and transcriptome sequencing. However, the impact of intraspecific hybridization on the transcriptome of wild emmer wheat has been poorly studied. In this study, we assessed changes in methylation patterns and transcriptomic variations in two accessions of wild emmer wheat collected from two marginal populations, Mt. Hermon and Mt. Amasa, and in their stable F4 hybrid.
Results
Methylation-Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism (MSAP) detected significant cytosine demethylation in F4 hybrids vs. parental lines, suggesting potential transcriptome variation. After a detailed analysis, we examined nine RNA-Seq samples, which included three biological replicates from the F4 hybrid and its parental lines. RNA-Seq databases contained approximately 200 million reads, with each library consisting of 15 to 25 million reads. There are a total of 62,490 well-annotated genes in these databases, with 6,602 genes showing differential expression between F4 hybrid and parental lines Mt. Hermon and Mt. Amasa. The differentially expressed genes were classified into four main categories based on their expression patterns. Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes are associated with DNA/RNA metabolism, photosynthesis, defense response, and phosphorylation.
Conclusion
This study highlights the significant transcriptomic changes resulting from intraspecific hybridization within natural plant populations, which might aid the nascent hybrid in adapting to various environmental conditions.
Complex PTSD symptom clusters and executive function in UK Armed Forces veterans: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Biscoe Natasha , New Emma , Murphy Dominic
Published: October 2023

Background: Less is known about complex posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than PTSD in military veterans, yet this population may be at greater risk of the former diagnosis. Executive function impairment has been linked to PTSD treatment outcomes. The current study therefore aimed to explore possible associations between each complex PTSD symptom cluster and executive function to understand if similar treatment trajectories might be observed with the disorder.
Methods: A total of 428 veterans from a national charity responded to a self-report questionnaire which measured complex PTSD symptom clusters using the International Trauma Questionnaire, and executive function using the Adult Executive Function Inventory. Single and multiple linear regression models were used to analyse the relationship between complex PTSD symptom clusters and executive function, including working memory and inhibition.
Results: Each complex PTSD symptom cluster was significantly associated with higher executive function impairment, even after controlling for possible mental health confounding variables. Emotion dysregulation was the complex PTSD symptom cluster most strongly associated with executive function impairment.
Conclusions: This is the first study to explore the relationship between executive function and complex PTSD symptom clusters. The study builds on previous findings and suggests that executive function could be relevant to complex PTSD treatment trajectories, as is the case with PTSD alone. Future research should further explore such clinical implications.
Detection of bacteria carried by ticks from the mountain areas of Guizhou, Southwestern China
Authors: Zhan Lin , Wu Shengchun , He Xian Hai , Zhou Xiao Quan , Meng Jiao , Zhou Cao Min , Yang Bin , Huang JianSheng , Yang Guanghong , Jiang Jia Fu , Xiao Zheng , Sun Yi , Wu Jia Hong , Cao Wu Chun , Yu Fu xun
Published: October 2023

Background: Emerging tick-borne bacterial pathogens pose a threat to public health. The bacterial community and diversity in ticks have been reported with high-throughput sequencing methods that have been widely used in microorganism identification. Tick-borne bacterial pathogens such as Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, Coxiella, and Bartonella amplified by PCR methods have been reported in Guizhou. Little information has been reported on the diversity of the bacterial community in ticks in the areas. The aim of this study was to explore the diversity of the bacterial community in ticks from Guizhou Province, southwestern China.
Methods: Ticks were collected in the mountainous areas of three counties in Guizhou Province from 2019-2022. Tick species were identified by morphology and molecular biology. DNA was extracted from tick samples, followed by high-throughput sequencing of the full-length 16S rRNA gene to analyze the diversity of the bacterial community of ticks.
Results: A total of 554 ticks were captured, including 453 Rhipicephalus microplus and 101 Haemaphysalis longicornis, from cattle and sheep in Ziyun, Shibing, and Luodian Counties. In total, 823 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified with 13 phyla, 22 classes, 55 orders, 121 families, and 253 genera of bacteria. The dominant bacterial genera were Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Stenotrophomonas. We noticed that Rickettsia and Coxiella were abundant in the samples collected from Luodian County. Other tick-borne pathogens, such as Bartonella, Yersinia, Brucella, Anaplasma, and Francisella,were distinguished in the ticks.
Conclusions: These results helped us to understand the diversity of the bacterial community in ticks in Guizhou mountain areas. Further studies are needed to uncover the pathogenicity of these tick-carried bacteria and their potential public health threats.
Alcohol consumption associated with colorectal cancer risk in a community population aged 50-74 years old: A nested case-control study
Authors: Lai Shiming , Zhu Honghong , Gan Zhijuan , Zheng Biyun , Xu Zhaohui , Wang Zhicheng , Liao Xiaofang
Published: October 2023

Objective
Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence has been increasing in China and worldwide. Alcohol consumption has been going up in China, too. This study was to investigate whether drinking was associated with CRC risk in a community population aged 50–74.
Methods
We designed a case-control study nested in a mass CRC screening program from 2020 to 2022. Cases were defined as newly diagnosed CRC confirmed by histopathological examinations and controls were normal people without any colorectal diseases confirmed by colonoscopy. Logistic regressions were used to estimate OR and 95% confidence interval (CI) of drinking between cases and controls.
Results
Using never drinking in their lifetime as a common reference, the adjusted OR and 95% CI of drinking between cases and controls were 1.45 (0.92, 2.30) in current drinkers, 3.90 (1.47, 10.34) in former drinkers, 1.55 (1.01, 2.38) in drinking 6–7 days/week, and 4.18 (1.41, 12.43) in drinking 1–19 years. When stratifying by gender, all drinking variables in women but not all in men were consistently associated with CRC risk; the adjusted OR and 95% CI were 1.01 (0.59, 1.74) in current drinking men, 2.27 (0.78, 6.64) in former drinking men, and 4.24 (1.61, 11.13) in current drinking women; the adjusted OR and 95% CI of drinking whisky amount were 0.19 (0.04, 0.83), 1.89 (0.86, 4.17), 2.25 (1.05, 4.83), and 1.82 (0.85, 3.92) in men drinking ≤ 10, 11-≤20, 21-≤30, > 30 Liang/week with a Ptrend = 0.011, and 4.03 (1.24, 13.12) and 7.40 (1.88, 29.15) in women drinking 1–4 days/week and 5–7 days/week with a Ptrend < 0.001, respectively.
Conclusion
Alcohol consumption was associated with increase in CRC risk in a community population aged 50–74. There were gender disparities in drinking and its association with CRC risk. Women tended to be more sensitive to alcohol carcinogenesis in CRC than men did and men’s association of drinking whisky with CRC risk tended to be determined by dosage.
A novel disulfidptosis-related lncRNA signature predicts prognosis and therapeutic response in low-grade glioma
Authors: Song Yu-qiao , Wang Xiao-reng
Published: October 2023

Background: Low-grade glioma (LGG) is the most common subtype of glioma, and disulfidptosis is a recently defined form of cell death that plays an important role in the development of several malignant cancers. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key molecules and potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of various tumors. However, the effects of disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs (DSRLs) on LGG remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to develop a new prognostic DSRLs signature for LGG and investigate its underlying biological mechanisms.
Methods: We downloaded LGG RNA sequencing profiles, clinical data, and tumor mutational burden (TMB) data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The gene expression profiles of the DSRLs were screened. Univariate Cox regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and multivariate Cox analyseswere performed to build a prognostic model for DSRLs.Patients with LGGs were divided into high- and low-risk subgroups based on their risk median value. The prognostic model was further validated using Cox regression, Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, nomograms, C-index, and principal component analysis (PCA). Moreover, the relationships between the model and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), immunological function, immune infiltration, m6A methylation, TMB, and drug sensitivity were investigated.
Results: In this study, 19 DSRLs were selected to establish a prognostic model. Survival analysis was performed and time-dependent ROC curves were constructed, and the results confirmed the high accuracy of the model in predicting the prognosis of patients with LGG. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that the risk score was an independent prognostic factor. Furthermore, we discovered substantial disparities in tumor immune characteristics, m6A methylation, TMB, and drug sensitivity between the high- and low-risk groups. Patients with high-risk LGG tend to respond better to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy; however, patients with low-risk LGG were more sensitive to chemotherapeutic drugs.
Conclusion: The prognostic model based on 19 disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs can accurately and effectively predict clinical outcomes in patients with LGG. These may be reliable biomarkers for risk stratification, evaluation of possible immunotherapy, and assessment of chemotherapy sensitivity for LGG.
Danubian loess shows dominance of proximal sediment sources and negligible inputs from the Sahara
Authors: Fenn Kaja , Millar Ian , Bird Anna , Veres Daniel , Wagner Doris
Published: October 2023

The Pannonian Basin, especially areas in proximity to the Danube River, provides a record of long-term Quaternary dust (loess) deposition in central-eastern Europe. Here, Sr-Nd isotopic data from 47 samples (four profiles) from loess-palaeosol deposits spanning the last two-glacial-interglacial cycles is presented. This geochemical data is compared with a large number of bedrock and sedimentary samples from across the region to decipher the sources of sediment and transport pathways. The results counter the hypothesis that the Sahara was a major sediment contributor to loess in central-eastern Europe. Instead North African contributions are shown to have been negligible over the late Pleistocene, which suggests suppressed southerly wind direction and supports westerly and northwesterly wind systems. The isotopic results point to alluvial plains (which are themselves sourced from surrounding mountain belts) as an immediate geomorphic source of material and consequently relatively short distance transport.
Adulteration detection and quantification in olive oil using excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy and chemometrics
Authors: Lujun Zhang , Nuo Cai , Xiaodong Huang , Xinmin Fan , Juanjuan Gao , Jin Gao , Sensen Li , Yan Wang , Chunyan Wang
Published: October 2023

This study explores the application of excitation-emission matrix fluorescence (EEMF) in conjunction with chemometric techniques for the rapid identification and quantification of adulteration in olive oil, particularly in cases where sample quantities are limited. Soybean oil, peanut oil, and linseed oil are introduced into olive oils to simulate various adulterated samples. Our approach involves the application of parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) for data decomposition, with a following focus on establishing correlations between the decomposed components and the actual adulterated components. This is accomplished through a thorough comparison of the spectral characteristics and score results of the decomposed components, allowing us to attribute them to the actual adulterated components and thereby ultimately enabling us to quantify the levels of actual adulteration. The results proves that EEMF spectroscopy combined with the proposed analysis methods serves as a powerful tool for the rapid detection and quantification of adulteration in olive oil. We also utilize principal component analysis (PCA) to cluster adulterated samples and identify efficient excitation wavelengths, and conduct a comparative analysis between PCA and PARAFAC methods. This study offers a novel perspective and method for quantitatively analyzing adulterants in olive oil through spectral detection, holding the promise of practical application in real-world detection scenarios.
Longer Term Time Dynamics of Bit Error Rates
Authors: Chikatmarla Jaya Chandra , Bhayanka Narasimha Anirudh Srinivas Prativadi , Beard Cory
Published: October 2023

In this paper an analysis is conducted to study the properties of indoor and outdoor wireless channel conditions over long time scales (several minutes). It shows that long term time dynamics exist in many different situations even when transmitters and receivers are stationary and the distance between them is only a few meters. We use software-defined radio (SDR) that implements radio communication functionalities in software. Transmissions have been achieved using the Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP), with the signal processing and time synchronization occurring in the GNU Radio environment on the LINUX (Ubuntu 14.04 LTS) platform. The work has been implemented in a typical school environment i.e., indoor conditions including a lab environment along with a hallway and outdoor conditions comprising a quadrangle environment. We used the benchmarking tool in the GNU Radio that defines and modifies modulation schemes, transmitter and receiver gains, operating frequencies, and other channel properties. Per-packet bit error rate is computed, visualized, and compared across multiple scenarios. We find a series of interesting time dynamics of the BER over several minutes that are not commonly studied in the literature.
The diagnostic role of arginine-stimulated copeptin in the differential diagnosis of polyuria-polydipsia syndrome (PPS) in pediatric age
Authors: Tuli Gerdi , Munarin Jessica , De Sanctis Luisa
Published: October 2023

Purpose:
in recent years, copeptin stimulation through arginine administration has been evaluated as a new potential tool in the differential diagnosis of polyuria-polydipsia syndrome (PPS) in adults; to date very few data, all retrospective, exist in pediatric age. The aim of this prospective study is to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the arginine-stimulation test for copeptin in a cohort of pediatric patients affected by PPS.
Methods:
all children (<18 years) referred to the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology of the Regina Margherita Children Hospital for polyuria-polydipsia in the period January 2021-June 2023 were enrolled. The Arginine-stimulation test for copeptin was performed in all patients presenting PPS after water deprivation test (WDT). Patients with polyuria-polydipsia were then classified as having primary polyuria (PP), complete and partial central diabetes insipidus (CDI), according to the standardized interpretation. Arginine-stimulation test for copeptin was also performed in a control cohort.
Results:
A significant difference in arginine-stimulated copeptin values was observed at baseline (p = 0.005), at 60 minutes (p= 0.01), and at 90 minutes (p = 0.005) in 7 subjects presenting PP, 6 patients affected by CDI and 50 subjects of the control cohort. Plasma osmolality values remained stable at all measurements. The arginine-stimulated copeptin test demonstrated sensitivity and specificity of 100%, whereas the sensitivity of the WDT test was 83.3% and the specificity was 85.7%.
Conclusion
given the reliability and the minor adverse effects and costs, the copeptin level after arginine administration could replace the WDT in the diagnostic workup of these in pediatric age.
Serum Amino Acids Changes in adolescent Diagnosed with Kashin-Beck Disease: A Study of Target Metabolomics
Authors: Sun Liyan , Li Qiang , Zhou Xin , Xue Hongmei , Wang Jianling , Li Jiquan , Zhao Yanmei , Zhao Zhijun , Wang Lihua
Published: October 2023

Background
Kashin-Beck disease ( KBD ) is a chronic degenerative osteoarthropathy with uncertain etiology. This study aims to identify variations in serum amino acids (AAs) between KBD adolescent and control adolescent and to investigate the pathogenesis of the KBD.
Method
Standard criteria for the diagnosis of KBD (WS/T207-2010) were used to screen children affected by the disease. The study included 31 KBD adolescent and 91 control subjects. The control group consisted of 50 external and 41 internal controls. The serum samples were obtained from the study population and analyzed using Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Data were analyzed using the SPSS Statistics 23.0 software.
Results
Changes in the serum concentrations of 12 different AAs and their metabolites between the KBD children and the control group were detected. Among them, the concentration of 5 AAs (Glutamic acid, Cholamine, Cysteine, Taurine and Asparaginic acid) and their metabolites was either significanlty higher or significanlty lower in the serum of KBD children as compared with the controls (p < 0.05). The serum concentrations of Hydroxyproline, Isoleucine, and Tryptophan between internal and external controls were significanlty different (p < 0.05). The concentrations of Histidine, Threoine, Proline, and 5- hydroxytryptamine among the three groups were significanly different (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
AAs metabolism changed during the onset of KBD. These findings provide clues into the molecular pathogenesis of KBD.
Comparative Analysis of Laparoscopic Appendiceal Stump Closure Techniques in South Punjab Tertiary Care Hospital, Pakistan
Authors: Anwar Shoaib , Akhtar Naveed , Javed Sadia , Hassan Syed Shams ul , Bandesha Faisal Naeem
Published: October 2023

Purpose: The study aimed to compare the efficacy of metallic endo-clips and extracorporeal knotting techniques for closing the appendiceal stump in laparoscopic appendectomy. The primary objectives were to assess the impact on surgery duration, hospital stay, and postoperative complications, focusing on identifying the potential benefits of using metallic endo-clips.
Methods: A retrospective comparative study was conducted at Nishtar Medical University, Multan. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A received metallic endo-clips, while Group B underwent extracorporeal knotting. Data were collected from surgical notes and discharge forms, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.
Results: Among the 70 patients, 62.9% were male, and 37.1% were female. The male-to-female ratio was 2:1. Most patients (81.4%) were aged up to 35 years, with 68.6% from urban areas. Using metallic endo-clips, Group A had a significantly shorter mean surgery duration (28.89 minutes) than Group B (34.23 minutes). Hospital stay duration showed no significant difference between the two groups. Only 4.3% of patients experienced complications, with a slightly higher incidence in Group B (66.7%).
Conclusion: The study suggests that using metallic endo-clips for laparoscopic appendiceal stump closure offers potential benefits, including shorter surgery duration and lower rates of complications. This technique may enhance surgical efficiency and reduce the risk of prolonged anaesthesia and surgery. Although this study had some limitations, it highlights the promise of metallic endo-clips as a viable alternative for appendiceal stump closure in laparoscopic appendectomy.
Effects of different colors of plastic-film mulching on soil temperature, yield, and metabolites in Platostoma palustre
Authors: Huang Suhua , Chen Hao , Quan Changqian , Chen Zhining , Xu Meihua , Wei Fan , Tang Danfeng
Published: October 2023

Platostoma palustre is an annual herb and an important medicinal and edible plant in southern China. Plastic-film mulching is an effective agronomic practice in the cultivation system of P. palustre, of which the black film mulching is the most common. However, fewer researches have been focused on the use of the other colors of plastic films in P. palustre cultivation. In this study, different colors (white, black, red, and green) of plastic-film were adopted, and the effects of different colors of plastic-film mulching on the soil temperature, yield, and metabolites of P. palustre were investigated. The results showed that the fresh weight of single plant of the green film treatment was significantly higher than that of the white film treatment (n = top 28). Based on the results of three temperature measurements, the soil temperature was almost the highest in the red film treatment and lowest in the white film treatment. The metabolomic analysis revealed that a total of 103 differential metabolites were identified. Among these, the gluconic acid, deoxyribose, and N-Acetylmannosamine in the red film treatment presented the highest abundance compared with the other treatments, meanwhile, the abundances of the five monosaccharides in the red film treatment were significantly higher than those of the green film treatment. Moreover, the sucrose, trehalose, and D-(+)-trehalose in the green film treatment exhibited the highest abundance, and the abundances of eight different amino acids in red film treatment were almost the lowest while those in black film treatment were almost the highest. Further analysis of the membership function values indicated that the black and red film treatments might be more suitable for the cultivation and quality production of P. palustre in comparison with the other two treatments. This study will provide a theoretical basis for improving the efficient cultivation technology of P. palustre and forming a theoretical system of P. palustre film mulching cultivation.
Lacto-ovo vegetarian diet mitigated the risk of chronic kidney disease in overweight individuals
Authors: Hou Yi-Chou , Tzeng I-Shinag , Tsai Wen-Hsin , Liu Hao-Wen , Liu Jia-Sin , Kuo Kuan-Cheng , Lai Yen-Chun , Lu Kuo-Cheng , Kuo Ko-Lin
Published: October 2023

Introduction
Being overweight, with a body mass index > 25, is associated with multiple comorbidities, including chronic kidney disease (CKD). A plant-based diet, such as a vegetarian or lacto-ovo vegetarian diet, serves as a preventive strategy for CKD in patients. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a vegetarian diet lowers the occurrence of CKD in overweight subjects.
Materials and Methods
The retrospective study was performed in Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital. The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) was evaluated according to the self-reported eating habits (vegetarians, lacto-ovo vegetarians, or omnivores), overweight(with a BMI ≥ 25 or higher abdominal circumference (> 90 cm in male or > 80 cm in female )) or not, or other biochemical or hematologic parameters. The interaction between different factors for the development of CKD were analyzed by Structural equation modeling.
Results
Among these 6,567 subjects, the subjects with lacto-ovo vegetarians (n = 1933) had lower incidence of CKD than dietary habits as vegans (n = 357) and omnivores (n = 4277) [26.2% vs. 32.8% (vegans) and 30.7% (omnivore group), p < 0.001]. The incidence of overweight was the highest in omnivore group. The lacto-ovo vegetarian group [OR:0.79, 95% confidence interval [CI):0.70–0.90) lower the risk of CKD occurrence than the omnivore group. After adjusting for age and sex in SEM model, the lacto-ovo diet lowered the risk for CKD from being with a high BMI (OR:0.82, p < 0.001) or a higher triglyceride(TG)/high-density lipoprotein(HDL) ratio (OR:0.76, p < 0.001; OR:0.55, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Lacto-ovo vegetarian dietary habits are associated with a lower occurrence of CKD in obese patients. The mitigating effect of the lacto-ovo vegetarian diet was due to the hazard of a higher BMI and TG/HDL ratio.
Enhancing music rhythmic perception and performance with a VR game
Authors: Pesek Matevž , Hirci Nejc , Žnideršič Klara , Marolt Matija
Published: October 2023

This study analyzes the effect of using a virtual reality (VR) game as a complementary tool to improve users' rhythmic performance and perception in a remote and self-learning environment. In recent years, remote learning has gained importance due to various everyday situations; however, the effects of using VR in such situations for individual and self-learning have yet to be evaluated. In music education, learning processes are usually heavily dependent on face-to-face communication with a teacher and are based on a formal or informal curriculum. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of gamified VR learning and its influence on users' rhythmic sensory and perceptual abilities. We developed a drum-playing game based on a tower defense scenario designed to improve four aspects of rhythmic perceptual skills in elementary school children with various levels of music learning experience. In this study, 14 elementary school children received Meta Quest 2 headsets for individual use in a 14-day individual training session. The results showed a significant increase in their rhythmical skills through an analysis of their rhythmic performance before and after the test. In addition, the experience of playing the VR game and using the HMD setup was also assessed, highlighting some of the challenges of currently available affordable headsets for gamified learning scenarios.
Construct lactylation-related genes prognostic model to effectively predict the disease-free survival and treatment responsiveness in prostate cancer based on machine learning
Authors: Pan Jinyou , Zhang Jianpeng , Lin Jingwei , Cai Yinxin , Wang Zuomin , Ma Yuxiang , Liu Yangzhou , Zhao Zhigang
Published: October 2023

Background
More and more studies have revealed that protein lactylation is an important mechanism for lactate to fulfill its duties and participate in important biological processes, which can regulate gene expressions through histone lactation, thereby promoting tumor spread, metastasis and immunosuppression. However, protein lactylation has been poorly studied in prostate cancer.
Methods
This study aimed to identify potential novel lactylation biomarkers of prostate cancer by biomarker analysis and to explore immune cell infiltration and treatment responsiveness. By downloading mRNA-Seq data of TCGA prostate cancer data for differential analysis, we obtained the differential genes related to Lactylation in prostate cancer. Five machine learning algorithms were used to screen for lactylation-related key genes for prostate cancer. The five overlapping key genes screened by five machine learning algorithms were used to construct a survival prognostic model by lasso cox regression analysis. Further, the relationships between the model and related pathways, tumor mutation and immune cell subpopulations and drug sensitivity were explored. Then, two risk groups were established according to the risk score calculated by the five lactylation-related genes (LRGs). Subsequently, a nomogram scoring system was established to predict disease-free survival (DFS) of patients by combining clinicopathological features and lactylation-related risk scores. Besides, the mRNA expression levels of five genes were verified in prostate cancer cell lines by qPCR.
Results
We identified 5 key LRGs (ALDOA, DDX39A, H2AX, KIF2C, RACGAP1) and constructed the LRGs prognostic model. The AUC values for 1 -, 3 -, and 5-year DFS in the TCGA dataset were 0.762, 0.745, and 0.709. The risk score was a better predictor of disease-free survival than traditional clinicopathological features in prostate cancer. The prostate cancer patients in the high-risk group have a higher proportion of regulatory T cells and M2 macrophage, a higher tumor mutation burden, and a worse prognosis. The high-risk group had a lower IC50 for certain chemotherapeutic drugs, such as Docetaxel, Paclitaxel.
Conclusions
The lactylation-related genes prognostic model can effectively predict the disease-free survival and therapeutic responses in prostate patients.
Effect of botanical extract on controlling damping off disease of cauliflower
Authors:   Pankaj Kumar Yadav1, Bhujel Prabina , Adhikari Pratishtha , Pokhrel Sarad , Shrestha Samir , Amine Kouadri Mohamed El
Published: October 2023

An experiment was conducted with five treatments in pot culture at Chitwan, in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six replications to study the efficacy of botanicals in controlling damping off disease of cauliflower. Analysis of variance for each variable showed significant differences among treatments. The aqueous extracts of Neem leaf, Garlic clove and Bauhinia leaf were prepared for application. The positive control, Captan showed the highest efficiency in controlling pre - and post-emergence damping off and it was followed by Neem and Garlic, whereas both Neem and Garlic were statistically at par. Captan showed the highest germination percentage of seedlings 95.6% and least by Control (49.83%). The highest incidence of damping off was recorded in Control (80.49%). Neem and Garlic showed satisfactory results in controlling damping off disease and Bauhinia was insignificant with negative control. This suggested that, Neem and Garlic can be used to manage this nursery problem and more research is needed to be done in this regard.
Current scenario and challenges of clinical pharmacists to implement pharmaceutical care in DRG/DIP payment hospitals in China: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Gao Suyu , Wang Xuanxuan , Lu Yun , Liu Yunkun , Jiang Qiaoli , Feng Jiajia , Kong Weihua , Lin Likai , Cheng Hong
Published: October 2023

Purpose
The Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) or Diagnosis-Intervention Packet (DIP)payment system, now introduced in China, intends to streamline healthcare billing practices. However, its implications for clinical pharmacists, pivotal stakeholders in the healthcare system, remains inadequately explored.This study sought to assess the perceptions, challenges, and roles of clinical pharmacists in China following the introduction of the DRG or DIP payment system.
Methods
Qualitative interviews were conducted among a sample of clinical pharmacists. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted, either online or face to face. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key insights and concerns related to their professional landscape under the DRG or DIP system.
Results
Clinical pharmacists exhibited variable awareness levels about the DRG or DIP system. Their roles have undergone shifts, creating a balance between traditional responsibilities and new obligations dictated by the DRG or DIP system. Professional development, particularly concerning health economics and DRG-based or DIP-based patient care, was highlighted as a key need. There were calls for policy support at both healthcare and national levels and a revised, holistic performance assessment system. The demand for more resources, be it in training platforms or personnel, was a recurrent theme.
Conclusion
The DRG or DIP system's introduction in China poses both opportunities and challenges for clinical pharmacists. Addressing awareness gaps, offering robust policy support, ensuring adequate resource allocation, and recognizing the evolving role of pharmacists are crucial for harmoniously integrating the DRG or DIP system into the Chinese healthcare paradigm.
Discovery of N-Substituted Pyrazoline derivatives as novel 3-Benzo[b]thiophene and 2- Mercaptobenzimidazole inhibitor for the treatment of breast cancer
Authors: Jeyanthi S. , Muniyappan N.
Published: October 2023

A new series of pyrazoline derivatives 4(a-g) bearing 3-Benzo[b]thiophene and Benz imidazole thioether moiety were synthesised from substituted benzaldehyde and 2-acetyl benzo thiophene through Chalcones, followed by the cyclisation with hydrazine hydrate, acylation using chloroacetyl chloride and finally substituted with 1H-benzo[d]imidazole thiol. All synthesized compounds 4(a-g) were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and Mass spectra. The major scope behind the synthesis of these compounds is the immense biological activities associated to these heterocyclic derivatives against bacteria and fungi, anti-oxidant,anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity. Most of the compounds showed a fair degree of potent antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity.
Automated Pain Assessment Increases Nurses’ Working Efficiency in elderly with hip fractures
Authors: Yang Shuang , Gong Liangbo , Zhao Huiwen , Liu Jing , Chen Xiaoying , Shen Siyi , Zhu Xiaoya , Luo Wen
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to design a modified ResNet 50 algorithm to achieve automatic classification model for pain expressions by elderly patients with hip fractures. We built a dataset by combining the advantages of deep learning in image recognition, using a hybrid of the Multi-Task Cascaded Convolutional Neural Networks (MTCNN). ResNet 50-based network framework utilized transfer learning to implement model function. We performed Bayesian optimization on the hyperparameters in the learning process. We calculated intraclass correlation between visual analog scale scores provided by nurses independently and those provided by pain expression evaluation assistant.The automatic pain expression recognition model for elderly patients with hip fractures, constructed using the algorithm, achieved an accuracy of 99.6% on the training set, 98.7% on the validation set, and 98.2% on the test set. The substantial kappa coefficient of 0.683 confirmed the PEEA's efficacy in pain assessment.This study demonstrates that the modified ResNet 50 algorithm with Bayesian optimization can be used to construct an automatic pain expression recognition model for elderly patients with hip fractures with higher accuracy.
Alkaloids and Quinolones as potential MtbTopI inhibitors: An in-silico discovery using ADME studies and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Cardoza Jyothsna Volisha , Ali Zeeshan , Singh Vijay Pratap , Issac Samuel Paul , Contini Alessandro , George Sudhan S.
Published: October 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb), the causative agent of Tuberculosis, threats human lives more than any other infectious diseases worldwide. Despite of various developed drugs against M.tb, lack of an efficient therapeutic has led to continuous formulation of new drugs against the disease. The bacteria's specific adaptations to achieve drug resistance operate as a defensive mechanism, thereby making the development of anti-mycobacterial drugs particularly complicated. Therefore, targeting new receptors in the bacteria to develop a potential drug is recommended. In this study, a pool of alkaloid and quinolone compounds have been screened against the M.tb Topoisomerase I receptor. The prime function of MtbTopI in mycobacterium is to maintain DNA topology and regulate the torsional stress during DNA replication. Targeting MtbTopI can not only disrupt DNA structure, but also lead to restricted growth and ultimately death of the pathogen. A total of 257 alkaloids and 1515 quinolones were screened in silico against the receptor to find compounds able to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. One alkaloid and two quinolones were eventually found as potential inhibitors of MtbTopI.
Diagnostic model for radiographic instability of L4-5 degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis based on propensity score matching and LASSO regression Author’s List
Authors: zhang Jing , Huang Zhongyichen , Wang Yi , Zhang Yao , Wen Donglin , Ran Jun , Wu Gang , Li Xiaoming
Published: October 2023

Background: This study aims to establish a diagnostic model for radiographic instability of L4-5 degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS) based on propensity score matching (PSM) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression.
Method: This retrospective study included 163 patients diagnosed with DLS at the L4-5 level. Radiographic instability was defined as a relative translation of >8% and an intervertebral angulation > 10° on standing lateral flexion-extension radiographs. 62 pairs of individuals with stable and unstable DLS were matched by PSM to minimize the influence of confounding baseline characteristics. LASSO regression was performed to select the optimal combination of features. Finally, a diagnostic model for radiographic instability was constructed using multifactor binary logistic regression. The model's efficiency was evaluated by the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).
Result: Patients in unstable group had a higher fat fraction (FF) of multifidus (MF) and erector spinae (ES) muscles and a thicker ligamentum flavum (LF). There was no significant difference between the two groups for MF and ES relative cross-sectional areas, total endplate scores and modified Pfirrmann grades. As for T2 histogram features of paraspinal muscle (PM), significant differences between the two groups were found for mean, variance, skewness, kurtosis, 10th, 50th and 90th percentiles. There was a linear correlation between relative translation and MF FF (r=0.517), ES FF (r=0.456). 58 features were extracted from MRI images and T2 histograms of PM, and five features including MF FF, sum ES variance, left MF kurtosis, left MF skewness and left MF variance were selected by LASSO regression. MF fat fraction (OR=1.394, P<0.001), ES variance sum (OR=1.001, P<0.05) and thickened LF(Y/N) (OR=4.892, P<0.05) were potential risk factors for unstable DLS, whereas left MF variance (OR=0.998, P<0.01) was protective feature for stable DLS. The AUC, sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic model were 0.972, 86.46% (95%IC 81.72%-91.20%) and 95.19% (95%IC 92.23%-98.16%) respectively.
Conclusion: FF and T2 histogram features of PM and LF morphology are valuable for lumbar dynamic instability. A diagnostic model based on these features in conventional MRI images and T2 histograms can evaluate radiological segmental stability of DLS.
Longitudinal association between household air pollution from biomass fuel use and depression in middle-aged and older adults in China: a national cohort study
Authors: Che xinyao , Quan Peiqin , Yang Yinan , Hu Xiaobin
Published: October 2023

Background
Incomplete combustion of biomass fuels significantly contributed to household air pollution (HAP). Evidence related to HAP and mental health from biomass fuel use remains limited. Therefore, we aimed to explore the longitudinal association between indoor biomass fuel consumption and depression.
Method
Data were obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Cox proportional hazards regression and linear mixed effects models were used to investigate the longitudinal association between indoor biomass fuel use and depression. We also investigated the effect of switching primary fuels on depression risk.
Result
A total of 4745 participants were included. Users of biomass fuel for heating and cooking had a higher risk of depression than those who used clean fuels, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.22 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09–1.36) and 1.33 (95% CI: 1.16–1.52), respectively. Furthermore, compared to clean fuel users, we found that biomass fuel users had elevated depression scores (β: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.11–0.49, P < 0.05 for cooking; β: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.15–0.59, P < 0.001 for heating), and higher growth rates of scores (β: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05–0.22, P < 0.001 for cooking; β: 0.10, 95% CI: 0.01–0.19, P < 0.05 for heating). Compared to using clean fuels for both cooking and heating, utilizing biomass fuels for both cooking and heating increased the risk of depression (HR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.23–1.67), along with a higher depression score (β: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.25–0.75, P < 0.001) and a higher growth rate of the score (β: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.05–0.25, P < 0.05). Additionally, individuals who changed their primary sources of heating and cooking from clean to biomass fuels had elevated risk of depression than those who always used clean fuels, with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.35 (95% CI: 1.05–1.76) and 1.43 (95% CI: 1.01–2.02), respectively.
Conclusion
Our research points to HAP as a potential contributor to depression risk in middle-aged and older adults. The usage of clean fuels should be encouraged since it may have a positive impact on mental health.
Multiple Graphs Structure of Intra-class Representation with Semantic Information for Image Annotation
Authors: liu baodi , Liu Yan , Shao Qianqian , Liu Weifeng
Published: October 2023

Automatic image annotation has absorbed a few research interests in recent decades quietly. Nevertheless, most methods leave graph structure out of consideration or utilize merely the graph without semantic information to capture manifold information of samples. Furthermore, it is inaccurate to consider the label matrix of a dataset as the feature matrix of tags during the computing label graph. To overcome these shortcomings, we propose a method, called Multiple Graphs Structure of Intra-class Representation with Semantic Information for Image Annotation. Our method proposes a superior multiple graphs structure called multiple graphs structure of intra-class representation as combining the semantic information with sample graph structure. Then, the probability Laplacian graph is presented to obtain the relationship between tags according to prior knowledge instead of exploiting tag features. Afterward, some experiments have been implemented to certify the effectiveness of the proposed graph structures on Corel5K, ESPGame, IAPRTC12, and NUS-WIDE datasets.
GANACHE: A Robust Framework for Efficient and Secure Storage of Data on Private Ethereum Blockchains
Authors: Mathur Garima
Published: October 2023

Blockchain technology has gained significant attention in recent years due to its decentralized and secure nature. Ethereum a popular blockchain platform supports the execution of smart contracts and enables the storage of data on the blockchain. However Ethereum's public nature may not be suitable for scenarios where sensitive or private data needs to be stored and accessed securely. In this paper we present GANACHE an efficient private Ethereum blockchain tool that addresses the confidentiality and security concerns associated with data storage. GANACHE leverages various cryptographic techniques such as encryption and zero-knowledge proofs to ensure the privacy of stored data while maintaining the benefits of blockchain technology.
The development and evidence of psychometric properties of the Self-Care Activities Scale focusing on the Daily Life Advanced Activities
Authors: Silva José Vitor , Maeda Marcos Toyotoshi , Orlandi Fabiana de Souza
Published: October 2023

Objective: To develop the Self-Care Activities Scale focusing on the Daily Life Advanced Activities (SCCAS-DLAAs) and to analyze its psychometric properties.
Method: This was a methodological, descriptive, and analytical study. The sample consisted of 1200 interviewees of both sexes, aged 70 years or older, residents in cities in southern Minas Gerais state, Brazil. The instruments used were as follows: an instrument to classify the baseline conditioning factors of elderly people, the SCCAS-DLAAs, and the Self-Care Skills Assessment Scale.
Results: The SCCAS-DLAAs consisted of 20 items and four domains, namely: Social (α Cronbach = 0.768), Leisure (α Cronbach = 0.643), Intellectual (α Cronbach = 0.708), and Religious (α Cronbach = 0.704). Convergent validity was satisfactory as it showed a positive and significant correlation (p≤0.001). For discriminant validation, the comparative analyses of the sociodemographic variables with the SCCAS-DLAAs were used, presenting a significance level between them, which demonstrated discriminative power.
Conclusion: The developed scale showed adequate reliability and validity for the Brazilian context.