bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The implications of superposed effect of cosmic ray diurnal anisotropy on weak Forbush Events at Apatity and Moscow Neutron Monitors
Authors: Menteso F. M. , Chukwude A. E. , Okike O. , Alhassan J. A.
Published: May 2024

Low-magnitude (FD(%) ≤ 3) Forbush decreases (FDs) and their space weather linkages is recently becoming popular in the literature. Accurate timing and correct magnitude measurement of weak FDs is a desideratum. It demands disentangling the effects of the ever present cosmic ray (CR) diurnal wave that exert undesirable influence on CR data. An enhanced version of a recently developed algorithm has been deployed to decompose raw CR data at Apatity (APTY) and Moscow (MOSC) neutron monitor (NM) stations into low and high frequency signals. A sub-routine in the Fast Fourier transform software simultaneously calculated the magnitude and the epoch time of the events from the transformed data. The software selected 335 and 359 low magnitude FDs respectively for APTY and MOSC observatories. The large catalogues of low-amplitude FDs selected compared to that in literature may be attributed to the efficiency of the present algorithm. We carried out a regression analysis on the magnitude of these events and the corresponding solar wind disturbance agents. The analysis shows that for APTY NM station, the correlation coefficient results r for FD-interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) and FD-planetary geomagnetic activity index (ap) relations are statistically significant at 95% confidence level. At the MOSC station, we find r ∼-0.41 which is statistically significant at 95% confidence level for FD-SWS relation. Analyzing all (low-and high-amplitude) FDs, r is relatively strong and statistically significant at 95% confidence level. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Molecular phylogenetic reconstructions elucidate the taxonomy of Indian Dipcadi Medik. (Asparagaceae) and reveal a new species from the bank of Hiranyakeshi River, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Shelke P.E. , Tamboli A.S. , Surveswaran S. , Yadav S.R. , Choo Y-S. , Pak J , Lekhak Manoj
Published: May 2024

Dipcadi (Scilloideae: Asparagaceae) is a genus of bulbous monocots with approximately 40 species, of which 13 occur in India. Species delimitation within the genus has been troublesome hindering a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis. The most recent phylogeny of the subfamily Ornithogaloideae included six species of Dipcadi only from Africa. Here, we reconstructed the phylogeny of Ornithogaloideae including 23 accessions of Indian Dipcadi. The phylogenetic analyses were based on nucleotide sequences of three plastid regions (rbcL, matK and trnL-F spacer) and one nuclear region (ITS). Pseudogaltonia clavata exhibited sister relationship to Dipcadi. Our combined nuclear + plastid dataset analyses revealed monophyletic Dipcadi with four clades, Clade I-IV. Clade I, II and III included mainly Indian species whereas Clade IV were mostly African species. Clade I included nine taxa including our newly described species D. mukaianum. The new species was phylogenetically placed along with D. erythraeum, D. saxorum and D. ursulae. Morphologically, the species resembled D. montanum and D. ursulae but differed in characters such as tepal cohesion, number of ovules per locule and foul-smelling flowers. Clade II and III included 11 and six taxa, respectively. D. erythraeum which has a native range from Egypt to western India was found in Clades I and IV. The widespread Dipcadi species, viz. D. erythraeum and D. serotinum showed polyphyly however, the monophyly of Dipcadi is established. Further work on the historical biogeography of Dipcadi on the subfamily Ornithogaloideae with more genetic data will yield insights how aridification of the landscape has shaped the evolution of the geographical clades.
Therapeutic efficacy of bovine serum albumin-riboflavin-retinoic acid formulated hydrogel on corneal wound healing and progenitor cell remodeling: An ex vivo study
Authors: samivel Ramachandran , AliKhan Adnan , Masmali Ali , ALANAZI SAUD , Almubrad Turki , Akhtar Saeed
Published: May 2024

Background The recovery of injured corneas requires both epithelial regeneration and stromal repair, and the formulated biomaterials established to repair damaged corneas can be utilized in regenerative medicine. The challenge is incorporating biomaterials with host tissue and cellular delivery, preventing rapid material degradation and maintaining corneal transparency.
Methods Bovine serum albumin (BSA)-riboflavin-retinoic acid (BHG) hydrogel was prepared by dissolving riboflavin, retinoic acid and 2.5% glutaraldehyde. The camel corneoscleral ring with a wound (8 mm diameter and 250 µm deep) was put on dome-shaped agarose, which was placed into 6-well plates containing BHG + serum-free Medium 199. The plateswere incubated at 37°C for 0, 24, 48 or 72 hours. The corneoscleral rings were processed and processedfor histopathology, electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry.
Results Histology and electron microscopy revealed that the development of all epithelial layers, basement membrane and anterior stroma was faster in the BHG-treated wounds than in thenontreated wounded corneas at 72 hours. Fibronectin expression was greaterand α-smooth muscle actin expression was lower in the BHG-treated corneas than inthe nontreated wounded corneas. The BHG-treated wounds healed faster than the nontreated wounds did.
Conclusion According to the present findings, we believe that BHG treatment upregulates the transglutaminase-2 (TG2) enzyme, leading to the regeneration of epithelial cells, and Wnt-β-catenin signaling, which promotes stromal cells. Hence, BHG is a promising therapeutic hydrogel for healing wounded corneas, and further studies on corneal wound healing and progenitor cellremodeling in an in vivo modelare needed.
Brain region specific regulation of anandamide (down) and sphingosine-1- phosphate (up) in association with anxiety (AEA) and resilience (S1P) in a mouse model of chronic unpredictable mild stress
Authors: Fischer Caroline , Thomas Dominique , Gurke Robert , Tegeder Irmgard
Published: May 2024

Chronic unpredictable and unavoidable stress is associated with mental health problems such as depression and anxiety, whereas cycles of stress and stress relief strengthen resilience. It has been suggested that increased breakdown of brain endocannabinoids (eCB) promotes a feeling of adversity. To assess the impact of stress on bioactive lipid homeostasis we analyzed eCB, sphingolipids and ceramides in seven brain regions and plasma in a mouse model of chronic unpredictable mild stress. CUMS was associated with low levels of anandamide in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in association with indicators of anxiety (elevated plus maze). Oppositely, CUMS caused elevated levels of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P d18:1) and sphinganine-1-phosphate (S1P d18:0) in midbrain and thalamus, which was associated with readouts of increased stress resilience, i.e., marble burying and struggling in the tail suspension tests. In the periphery, elevated plasma levels of ceramides revealed similarities with human major depression and suggested unfavorable effects of stress on metabolism, but plasma lipids were not associated with body weight, sucrose consumption or behavioral features of depression or anxiety. The observed brain site specific lipid changes suggest that the forebrain succumbs to adverse stress effects while the midbrain takes up defensive adjustments.
Safety and Efficacy of Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (mini PCNL) in Pediatric Patients with Staghorn Stone: A Single Center Study in Pakistan
Authors: Tahir Ruqia , Bakar Abu , Khan Ubaid Ullah , Imran Mishal , khan Ansar Ullah , Ullah Hizb
Published: May 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL) in pediatric patients with staghorn stones in Pakistan.
Methods
The study was conducted at the Armed Forces Institute of Urology, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from December 1, 2022, to June 1, 2023. A total of 140 participants were included in the study using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Inclusion criteria included male and female patients aged 3 months to 18 years with sterile urine cultures, while exclusion criteria included malrotation or ectopic pelvic kidneys, uncontrolled urinary tract infections, and comorbidities that contraindicated surgery. The study followed ethical approval and informed consent was obtained from all participants. Data collection involved recording patient demographics, surgical parameters, and postoperative outcomes. The procedures were performed using the Karl Storz Nagele minimally invasive PCNL system, and the Swiss Lithoclast Master was used to fragment the stones.
Results
The study found that mini-PCNL is a safe and effective treatment option for pediatric patients with staghorn stones, with a stone-free rate of 82.1% and a complication rate of 9.3%.
Conclusion
The study recommends mini-PCNL as a preferred treatment option for pediatric patients with staghorn stones due to its minimally invasive nature and lower complication rate compared to traditional PCNL. Overall, this study showed that mini-PCNL is a safe and effective therapeutic option for kidney stones in pediatric patients. Future research should be conducted using a wider population to generalize the results.
Effect of the regulation of quinine in Cinchona Base derived primary amine on the addition reaction of nitrostyrene with 2-methylpropionaldehyde
Authors: Haiyang Jiang
Published: May 2024

The Michael addition of nitrostyrene and 2-methylpropionaldehyde catalyzed via cinchona alkaloid-based primary amines (9-epi-QDA-R'') with the aid of benzoic acid have been carried out at the PCM(toluene)/B3LYP/6-311 + + G(2df,2p)//B3LYP/6-31G(d) level. The calculations showed that the whole reaction consisted of four consecutive steps: ⑴ the production of an imine ion intermediate, ⑵ an addition reaction between the imine ion and nitrostyrene, ⑶ the second proton transfer stage, and ⑷ hydrolysis and regeneration stage of the catalyst. The rate-determining step of the whole reaction is the addition process between the imine ion and nitrostyrene. The correlation calculations determined that 9-epi-QDA-R'' containing -NH electron-absorbing group in the quinine ring exhibit stronger activation than that containing -CH2 electron-donating group, while 9-epi-QDA-R'' with -NCONHPh electron-absorbing group in the quinine ring exhibit weaker activation than that containing -CH2 electron-donating group. Natural Bond Orbital analysis of atomic charges of the tertiary amine nitrogen in the quinine ring determined that the electron-absorbing group slightly reduce the negative charges on the nitrogen atom of the tertiary amine, which is favorable for the addition reaction of the imine ion to nitrostyrene. However, the negative charge on tertiary amine nitrogen is much reduced by the electron-absorbing substituents, which is not conducive to the addition reaction of nitrostyrene with the imine ion. Accordingly, the calculations exhibit that the charge distribution of the nitrogen atom of the tertiary amine influences the catalytic efficiency of the whole system.
Subjective and inter-subjective meanings associated with peer caregiving amongst male and female peer support workers in two US state prisons
Authors: Stewart Warren , Prost Stephanie Grace , Novisky Meghan , Arculeta Adrian , Golder Seana
Published: May 2024

With the increasing number of older, frail, disabled and dying persons in US prisons and other Western nations, awareness of the need and value of high-quality peer care is growing. This paper provides a qualitative analysis of the perceptions and experiences of male and female peer carers in two US prisons regarding their roles. The data in this paper were collected via two focus groups (n = 15) and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings were organised using Bronfenbrenner’s (2000) ecological systems framework and emphasize the issues that hold meaning for the male and female peer caregivers, and the factors that motivated and sustained them in their roles, often in the face of complex inter-personal and environmental stressors. Three thematic areas emerged: ‘motivation and benefits’, ‘challenges and costs’, and ‘learning’ associated with caregiving. The findings reveal there are several differences and similarities between male and female caregiver experiences. However, both groups enjoyed intrinsic and extrinsic rewards associated with their roles. Male peer caregivers appear to be motivated by issues related to identity, masculinity, and religious beliefs, while women were driven by the value of meaningful relationships. To our knowledge this is the first paper to describe and contrast the views and experiences of male and female peer caregivers in prisons.
Tackling the role of rare functional variation in inflammatory bowel disease through application of GenePy2 as a potential DNA biomarker
Authors: Ennis Sarah , Cheng Guo , Ashton James , Beattie R.Mark , Collins Andrew
Published: May 2024

Rare and common variants often converge in the pathogenic pathway of in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a heterogenous autoimmune condition with genomic and environmental influences. We identified 794 functionally-targeted-genes/linkage-disequilibrium-mapped blocks (LDBs) implicated by genome-wide-association-studies (GWAS), then developed GenePy2, a burden score that integrates functional impacts of rare variants for each gene/LDB, using exome data of UK-Biobank phase2 IBD cohort. Through case/control 2-way Man-Whitney-U test tuning on subpopulations with extreme GenePy2 scores, 34 genes/LDBs in Crohn’s disease (CD) and 25 in Ulcerative Colitis (UC) survived significance test, confirming roles for rare functional variants. The optimal threshold of GenePy2 were then pinpointed for each gene/LDB based on tests’ maximum effect size. Further itemset association mining of the binarised GenePy2 scores detected an intriguing cooccurrence of extreme scores of the risk NOD2 and protective IL23R in controls, which are mutually exclusive in CD patients, implicating a ‘rescue’ of disease by protective rare variants.
On the Asymptotic Persistence of Langmuir Modes in Kinematically Complex Plasma Flows
Authors: Arabuli Ketevan , Rogava Andria , Poedts Stefaan
Published: May 2024

The dynamics of Langmuir modes, waves (LW), and shear Langmuir vortices (SLV) are studied in kinematically complex astrophysical plasma flows. It is found that they exhibit several peculiar, velocity shear-induced, {\it asymptotically persistent} phenomena, including efficient energy exchange with the background flow and various kinds of instabilities, leading to their exponential growth and echoing solutions with persistent wave-vortex-wave conversions. There is a remarkable similarity between these phenomena and those happening with compressible acoustic modes. These phenomena' relevance and possible importance for different types of astrophysical plasma flow patterns with kinematic complexity are discussed. In particular, we argue that these physical processes may account for the persistent appearance of plasma oscillations in the heliosphere and interstellar plasma flows. In particular, we believe that the kinematically complex motion of plasma may naturally lead to the asymptotically persistent appearance of Langmuir modes that are born, grown, fed, sustained and maintained by these flows.
Phylogenomic analyses and comparative genomic studies of Thermus strains isolated from Tengchong and Tibet hot springs, China
Authors: Khan Inam Ullah , Saqib Muhammad , Amin Arshia , Manzoor Sadia , Ahmed Iftikhar , Liu Rui-Rui , Jiao Jian-Yu , Zhi Xiao-Yang , Li Wen-Jun
Published: May 2024

Genus Thermus is the main focus of researcher among the thermophiles. Members of this genus are the inhabitants of both natural and artificial thermal environments. We performed phylogenomic analyses and comparative genomic studies to unravel the genomic diversity among the strains belonging to the genus Thermus as well their strategiesto adapt in geographically different thermal springs. Sixteen Thermus strains were isolated and sequenced from two geographically different hot springs, Qucai hot springs in Tibet and Tengchong hot springs in Yunnan, China. 16S rRNA gene based phylogeny and phylogenomic analyses based on concatenated set of conserved proteins 971 (supermatrix and gene content methods) revealed a mixed distribution of the Thermus strains. The phylogenomic analyses results suggest fundamentally similar trends of adaptabilityof genus Thermus at high-temperature environments. Whole genome based phylogenetic analysis showed, all 16 Thermus strains belong to five species; T. oshimai (YIM QC-2-109, YIM 1640, YIM 1627, 77359, 77923, 77838), T.antranikianii (YIM 73052, 77412, 77311, 71206), T. brokianus (YIM 73518, 71318, 72351), T. hydrothermalis (YIM 730264 and 77927) and T. thalpophilus (77420). Although the genomes of different strains of Thermus of same species were highly similar, but subtle differences were found.CRISPR loci were detected through genome-widescreening, which showed that Thermus isolates from two different thermal locations had well developed defense system against viruses and adopt similar strategy for survival. Additionally, comparative genome analysis screened competence loci across all the Thermus genomes which reveal that they acquire DNA from environment very efficiently. In the present study it was found that Thermusstrains from two different geothermal springs use two mechanism of incomplete denitrification pathway, some Thermusstrains produces nitric oxide while others nitrious oxide (dinitrogen oxide), which show the heterotrophic lifestyle of Thermus genus. All isolated organisms encoded complete pathways for glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) and pentose phosphate. Calvin Benson Bassham cycle genes were identified in genomes of T. oshimai and T. antranikianii strains, while genomes of all T. brokianus strains and organism 77420 were lacking. Arsenic, cadmium and cobalt-zinc-cadmium resistant genes were detected in genomes of all sequenced Thermusstrains. Strains 77420, 77311, 73518, 77412 and 72351 genomes were found harboring genes for siderophores production. Sox gene clusters were identified in all sequenced genomes, except strain YIM 730264, suggesting a mode of chemolithotrophy.
Impact of Relative Humidity on the Formation of Low-Frictional Interface and its Continuity in Tribological Systems with Hydrogenated Carbon Nitride Coatings
Authors: Kuriyagawa Kazuya , Tamagawa Tatsuki , Adachi Koshi
Published: May 2024

The impact of relative humidity on the formation of low-frictional interface in hydrogenated carbon nitride (CNx:H) coatings sliding against Si3N4 balls and the formation continuity was elucidated through friction tests conducted in both air and nitrogen atmospheres with controlled relative humidity levels. In air atmosphere, a carbonaceous tribolayer with a transformed structure from the initial CNx:H was formed on Si3N4 at less than 3.0% RH, resulting in low friction (µ < 0.05) and a low specific wear rate of the balls (< 2×10− 9 mm3/Nžm). In contrast, this tribolayer failed to form at > 3.0% RH. In nitrogen atmosphere, within the 0.25–1.0% RH range, the tribolayer continued to form concurrently with wear progression, maintaining low friction for over 50,000 cycles. However, in less than this humidity range, the lifetime of low friction decreased owing to the tribolayer’s structural transformation. Thus, relative humidity influences not only the formation of the low-frictional interface but also the formation continuity. On the CNx:H friction surface, hydrogen, hydroxyl, and oxygen groups from environmental water and oxygen molecules continued to chemisorb owing to tribochemical reactions on the uppermost few nanometers during continuous low friction in a nitrogen atmosphere, while hydrogen content of CNx:H desorbed. This study experimentally confirmed the critical role of controlling relative humidity in tribological systems using CNx:H coatings to achieve low friction and improve its durability of low friction through the continuous formation of the low-frictional interface.
Ultrastructure of EGC and expression of GDNF, GFAP and their mRNA in small intestine of broiler chickens at different days of age
Authors: Tian Xingxing , Han Ruoyu , Ali Adnan , Chen Jie , Yang Kuan , Qi Fenghua , Xu Chunsheng
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the ultrastructural characteristics of enteric glial cells (EGCs) in the small intestine and the expression of their secretions, GDNF and GFAP, in broilers of different ages. Yellow-feathered broilers aged 7, 20, 40, 55, and 70 days were selected. Ultrathin sections and paraffin sections of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were obtained after slaughter to observe the ultrastructure of EGCs and the expression of GDNF and GFAP in the small intestinal tissues using transmission electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Additionally, changes in the mRNA content of GDNF and GFAP were detected using qRT-PCR.The experimental results revealed that the cell membrane structure of 7-day-old EGCs was unclear, and the intracellular cells contained more mitochondria, lysosomes, and other organelles. As the age increased, the boundaries between EGCs became clearer, the cell spacing increased, and the intracellular glial fibers increased. Immunohistochemistry results showed that GDNF and GFAP proteins increased and then decreased from 7 to 70 days of age, peaking at 40 days of age. The mRNA expression of GFAP was consistent with the protein expression level at different ages, while the mRNA expression of GDNF was opposite to that of the protein, with the lowest mRNA expression observed at 40 days. In conclusion, with increasing age, the structure of EGCs tended to stabilize, with cells maturing at 40 days of age. The expression of GDNF and GFAP gradually increased and peaked at 40 days of age before declining. The mRNA expression of GFAP correlated with the protein expression pattern, whereas the expression of GDNF mRNA was opposite to that of the protein expression. These results provide a morphological reference for studying the physiological function of broiler EGCs.
Influence of dynamic factors in weight-bearing position on the pathogenesis of medial patellofemoral joint cartilage injuries - a radiological in vivo study
Authors: Li Min , Kang Huijun , Han Ruixue , Wei Tianyang , Liu Yingjie , Wang Fei
Published: May 2024

Objective
This study aimed to prospectively compare the changes in the anterior patellofemoral(PF) alignment in the 30°, 60°, and 90° positions of knee flexion in non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing states to understand the pattern of PF joint motion and the causes of medial PF cartilage injury.
Methods
22 young volunteers were recruited to participate in this study. PF axial radiographs of the right knee were taken in the prone and standing positions at 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion, and the patellar tilt angle(PTA), Congruence Angle(CA), medial and lateral PF joint space width, patellofemoral index(PI), and patellar shift(PS) were measured. Statistical methods used were paired t-tests, One-Way ANOVA, and chi-square tests were used to prospectively compare the changes in PF joint alignment parameters between the non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing states in the prone and standing positions.
Results
There was a significant difference in the anterior alignment of the PF joint between the weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing positions at 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion. The PTA was significantly smaller in the weight-bearing position than in the non-weight-bearing position, and the larger the knee flexion angle, the smaller the PTA. The patella was significantly displaced medially at 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion in the weight-bearing position compared with the non-weight-bearing position. The PI was smaller in the weight-bearing than in the non-weight-bearing position at 60° and 90° of knee flexion, and the difference was statistically significant. In the same knee joint with 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion, the number of knees with PI less than 1 with < 2 positions of knee flexion(30°, 60°, and 90° ) was 15 (68.2%) in the non-weight-bearing position compared with 5 (22.7%) in the weight-bearing position, and the number of knees with PI less than 1 with ≥ 2 positions of knee flexion(30°, 60°, and 90° ) was 7 (31.8%) in the non-weight-bearing position compared with 17 (77.3%) in the weight-bearing position; the difference was statistically significant.
Conclusion
The alignment pattern of the PF joint during dynamic activity in the weight-bearing position reflects the possibility that the medial PF compartment has hyperpressure and is responsible for the high incidence of medial PF cartilage injuries and the development of osteoarthritis(OA) of the medial PF compartment.
Study on the adsorption performance of manganese dioxide loaded modified biochar composite materials for cadmium ions (Ⅱ) in solution
Authors: Wang Hui , Wang Anqi , Ji Jiangtao , Zhang Xiaohua , Wang Yujie , Zhang Wenxuan , Wang Yijia , Wang Hanyu , Song Yang , Liu Qiaolin
Published: May 2024

The manganese dioxide loaded peanut shell activated carbon composite material (MnO2-AC) was prepared by coprecipitation method using peanut shell and natural graphite as raw materials. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to screen the optimal preparation condition for AC (carbon alkali ratio 2:3, time 5h, temperature 700℃) and the preparation process has been optimized. MnO2-AC was synthesized by loading AC and MnO2 under the optimal preparation condition.The adsorption effect of Cd2+ in aqueous solution was compared, and the effects of pH value and ion strength on Cd2+ adsorption were investigated. The adsorption kinetics and isothermal adsorption characteristics were analyzed. The results showed that the surface of modified MnO2-AC exhibits spherical aggregates with rougher surfaces, more micropores, and larger specific surface area. In comparison to BC and AC, MnO2-AC possessed more surface adsorption sites and oxygen-containing functional groups. Kinetic adsorption studies have shown that the maximum adsorption capacity of MnO2-AC (138.14mg·g− 1) for Cd2+ has significantly increased, which is 3.06 and 1.15 times higher than that of BC (45.16mg·g− 1) and AC (119.21mg·g− 1), respectively. The adsorption capacity has increased by 205.9% and 15.8%, respectively. At the same time, the adsorption capacity of MnO2-AC for Cd2+ remained as high as 60.96mg·g− 1 after 6 adsorption desorption cycles, with an increase of 217.83% and 32.15% compared to the adsorption capacity of BC (19.18mg·g− 1) and AC (46.13mg·g− 1) after 6 adsorption desorption cycles, respectively, proving that MnO2-AC has good reusability. MnO2-AC loaded modification has significant adsorption effects on heavy metal ions, and has good application potential.
Combined scRNA-Seq and bulk RNA-Seq analysis suggests that ITGB2 has potential as a prognostic factor for the immune microenvironment of gastric cancer tumours and as an indicator of tumour microenvironment remodelling.
Authors: Yu Fangpu , Huang Hai , Wang Kai , Zhang Mingkai , Li Yanbin , Liu Chang , Li Yuming
Published: May 2024

Background: The prognostic management of gastric cancer remains a major challenge for clinicians. In recent years, correlation studies of immune infiltration in gastric cancers, such as stomachadenocarcinoma (STAD)have attracted much attention. However, the correlation between the expression of the immune factor ITGB2 and the malignant features of immune infiltration and gastric cancer has rarely been reported.
Methods:
Batch RNA-seq and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data were combined to screen for differentially expressed genes using software packages and machine learning. Data from the TCGA and five GEO databases were used to investigate the expression levels of ITGB2 in patients with STAD, and the correlation between ITGB2 expression levels and gastric cancer progression was explored and validated. Tumour-infiltrating immune cells were sorted and sequenced at the single-cell level to analyse differences in the expression of ITGB2. Several algorithms were used to analyse the correlation between ITGB2 and immune infiltration in patients with STAD. The study predicted chemotherapy and immunotherapy responses for subgroups with high and low expression of ITGB2. Additionally, LASSO regression models were employed to identify prognostic features based on ITGB2-derived molecules.
Results:
This study revealed that increased levels of ITGB2 were linked to worse clinical outcomes and prognosis in STAD patients. Bioinformaticanalysis revealed that ITGB2 is involved in leukocyte migration, cytokine activation, and other pathways. Additionally, ITGB2 was positively correlated with the infiltration of most immune cells, immunomodulators, and chemokines. Moreover, gastric cancer patients with high levels of ITGB2 had better responses to immunotherapy. Finally, a machine learning algorithm, LASSO regression, was used to identify prognostic features based on molecules derived from ITGB2. The algorithm demonstrated satisfactory prognostic predictive ability in both the training and validation cohorts.
Conclusion:
ITGB2 expression is a promising potential immune-related biomarker for STAD and can be used to identify patients who may benefit from immunotherapy.
Unwrapping the Native Plant Black Box: Consumer Perceptions and Segments for Target Marketing Strategies
Authors: Rihn Alicia L. , Torres Ariana , Behe Bridget K. , Barton Sue
Published: May 2024

The increasing demand for sustainable products has helped spur demand for native plants. This study used an online survey of 2066 US consumers, a factor analysis, and Ward’s linkage cluster analysis to identify unique customer segments in the native plant marketplace. The following three clusters were identified: native averse (31.6%), native curious (35.7%), and native enthusiast (32.7%). The native enthusiast cluster agreed strongly with positive statements related to native plant perceptions and attributes. The native averse cluster exhibited the lowest level of agreement with these items and the greatest level of agreement with negative or neutral statements about native plants. The native curious cluster was intermediate between the other clusters but generally agreed with positive attributes. Demographic characteristics impacted cluster membership. The marketing implications are discussed.
Varietal Tolerance of Cucurbitaceous Crops with S-metolachlor Applied Postemergence
Authors: Vollmer Kurt M. , Sosnoskie Lynn M. , VanGessel Mark J. , Besançon Thierry E.
Published: May 2024

Cucurbit crops comprise ∼25% of the vegetable acreage in the mid-Atlantic and Northeastern United States. However, options for postemergence weed control in these crops are limited. Overlapping herbicides is a technique that involves sequential applications of soil-applied residual herbicides to lengthen herbicidal activity before the first herbicide dissipates. Residual herbicides such as S-metolachlor will not control emerged weeds, but weed control efficacy may be extended if these herbicides are applied after crop emergence, but before weed emergence occurs. Currently S-metolachlor is not labeled for broadcast applications over cucurbit crops. Greenhouse studies were conducted to evaluate pumpkin, cucumber, and summer squash variety response to varying S-metolachlor rates. S-metolachlor was applied at 1.42 and 2.85 lb/acre at the two-leaf stage of pumpkin and 0.71, 1.42, 2.85, and 5.7 lb/acre at the two-leaf stage of cucumber and summer squash. Cucumber showed a greater response to S-metolachlor with up to 67% injury observed at 5.70 lb/acre. S-metolachlor applications to pumpkin and summer squash resulted in less than 6% injury, regardless of application rate or crop variety. S-metolachlor applied at 2.85 lb/acre reduced pumpkin and cucumber dry weight 6% and 19%, respectively, but did not reduce squash dry weight. S-metolachlor reduced cucumber dry weight 78% for all varieties. Pumpkin varieties ‘Munchkin’ and ‘Baby Bear’ exhibited a 23% difference in dry weight, but no other differences were observed among other varieties because of S-metolachlor applications. Summer squash varieties ‘Respect’ and ‘Golden Glory’ exhibited a 31% difference in dry weight, but no other differences were observed among other varieties. Results show that pumpkin and summer squash demonstrated good crop safety when S-metolachlor was applied as a broadcast treatment after crop emergence. However, caution should be urged when applying this herbicide to cucumber.
Regulatory Mechanisms of Strigolactones on the Development of Lateral Branches in Cucumber
Authors: Su Tian , Li Ziwei , Zhang Yinghua , Xu Junqiang , Xu Bin
Published: May 2024

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) belongs to the cucumber genus of the Cucurbitaceae family, and the selection of cultivars with minimal or no lateral branches can enhance the cultivation management efficiency. The growth of lateral branches is inhibited by strigolactone. To investigate the regulatory mechanism of strigolactone on the lateral branch development in cucumber, the cultivar LZ1 exhibiting multiple lateral branches was selected as the experimental material. The axillae of the plants were infiltrated with 1, 5, and 10 μmol·L−1 germination releaser 24 (GR24) at the four- to five-leaf stage. It was identified that 1 μmol·L−1 GR24 exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect on cucumber lateral branches. Additionally, exogenous strigolactone decreased the auxin content in the apical bud and axillae and increased the auxin content in the stem. This inhibited polar auxin transport in the axillary bud and promoted polar auxin transport in the apical bud. The content of strigolactone in the axilla region of cucumbers was elevated, whereas the synthesis and expression of cytokinin in the same area were reduced. A low concentration of GR24 induced the expression of cucumber branched 1 (csbrc1), whereas a high concentration of GR24 downregulated the expression of cucumber lateral suppressor (cscls) and blind (csblind), which inhibited the growth of cucumber lateral branches.
Cu nanoparticle geometry as the key to bicolor behavior in Oregon sunstones: An application of LSPR theory in nanomineralogy
Authors: Wang Chengsi , Shen Andy H. , Heaney Peter J. , Palke Aaron , Wang Ke , Wang Haiying , Kiefert Lore
Published: May 2024

The coloration mechanism of Oregon sunstone is a classic and controversial topic in mineralogy because of the unique coexistence of anisotropic (green-red) and isotropic (red) color zones within single feldspar crystals. After nearly 50 years of research, no models proposed to date have satisfactorily accounted for all observed optical phenomena. Here, we present high-resolution transmission electron microscopy analyses of samples prepared by focused ion beam extraction along specific crystal directions. In both the anisotropic and the isotropic color zones, we observed Cu nanoparticles (NPs) included within plagioclase but with different geometries. In the isotropic (red) zone, NPs were randomly distributed nano-spheres or nano-ellipsoids (8.7–12 nm in diameter) with an aspect ratio of 1–1.3. In contrast, in dichroic (green/red) zones, NPs were directionally aligned nano-rods (8.5–21 nm along the long axis) with an aspect ratio of ∼2.5. We applied localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) theory to simulate absorption spectra and developed a model to explain the observed optical properties. LA-ICP-MS and polarized UV-Vis spectroscopy were also performed to confirm our conclusions. This study systematically reveals the existence and optical influence of variably shaped metal-NP inclusions in feldspar crystals. Furthermore, it demonstrates the necessity of including LSPR in the canon of mineral coloration mechanisms. Cu-NP-bearing labradorite has been shown to exhibit third-order nonlinear optical properties, and approaches that incorporate NP shapes and sizes will assist in designing NP-embedded optical materials with tailored optical properties.
Solfataric alteration at the South Sulfur Bank, Kilauea, Hawaii, as a mechanism for the formation of sulfates, phyllosilicates, and silica on Mars
Authors: Bishop Janice L. , Schiffman Peter , Murad Enver , Southard Randal J. , Gruendler Lukas , Dyar M. Darby , Lane Melissa D.
Published: May 2024

Solfataric alteration at the South Sulfur Bank of the former Kilauea caldera produced opal, Mg- and Fe-rich smectites, gypsum, and jarosite through silica replacement of pyroclastic Keanakako’i ash and leaching of basaltic lavas. This site on the island of Hawaii serves as an analog for formation of several minerals found in altered deposits on Mars. Two distinct alteration environments were characterized in this study, including a light-toned, high-silica, friable outcrop adjacent to the vents and a bedded outcrop containing alternating orange/tan layers composed of smectite, gypsum, jarosite, hydrated silica, and poorly crystalline ferric oxide phases. This banded unit likely represents the deposition of pyroclastic material with variations in chemistry over time that was subsequently altered via moderate hydrothermal and pedogenic processes and leaching of basaltic caprock to enhance the Si, Al, Mg, Fe, and Ca in the altered layers. In the light-toned, friable materials closest to the vents along the base of the outcrop, glassy fragments were extensively altered to opal-A plus anatase.

Lab measurements of samples returned from the field were conducted to replicate recent instruments at Mars and provide further characterization of the samples. These include elemental analyses, sample texture, XRD, SEM, VNIR/mid-IR reflectance spectroscopy, TIR emittance spectroscopy, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. Variations in the chemistry and mineralogy of these samples are consistent with alteration through hydrothermal processes as well as brines that may have formed through rain interacting with sulfuric fumes. Silica is present in all altered samples, and the friable pyroclastic ash material with the strongest alteration contains up to 80 wt% SiO2.

Sulfate mineralization occurred at the South Sulfur Bank through fumarolic action from vents and likely included solfataric alteration from sulfuric gases and steam, as well as oxidation of sulfides in the basaltic caprock. Gypsum and jarosite are typically present in different layers of the altered wall, likely because they require different cations and pH regimes. The presence of both jarosite and gypsum in some samples implies high-sulfate concentrations and the availability of both Ca2+ and Fe3+ cations in a brine percolating through the altered ash. Pedogenic conditions are more consistent with the observed Mg-smectites and gypsum in the tan layers, while jarosite and nontronite likely formed under more acidic conditions in the darker orange layers. Assemblages of smectite, Ca-sulfates, and jarosite similar to the banded orange/tan unit in our study are observed on Mars at Gale crater, Noctis Labyrinthus, and Mawrth Vallis, while high-silica outcrops have been identified in parts of Gusev crater, Gale crater, and Nili Patera on Mars.
Determinação do peso de carbono em diferentes espécies de pinus na região de Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Urbano Edilson , Oliveira Isabeli Moraes de , Simplicio Vitor Hugo dos Santos , Cacau Filipe Valadão do Prado
Published: May 2024

Com as espécies Pinus oocarpa, P. caribaea, P. maximinoi e o Hibrido de P. elliottii X P. caribaea Var. Hondurensis, foi feito a quantificação do peso de carbono destas espécies visando determinar o potencial de fixação de CO2 que estas espécies possuem sob condições edafoclimáticas da região. Para isso, foi necessário quantificar o peso de carbono fixado nas espécies durante o período de 5 anos transcorridos após o plantio e analisar a variabilidade entre as espécies. Primeiramente, determinou-se a biomassa seca, ou seja, 3 árvores de cada espécie foram abatidas, amostras de tronco, galhos e acículas delas foram coletadas, levadas ao laboratório e secasem estufa para obtenção do percentual de biomassa em cada componente; após esse procedimento foi calculado o peso do carbono por componente e para cada espécie. Os pesos de carbono foram obtidos por simples multiplicação do percentual de carbono sobre o peso seco dos componentes. A análise de variância mostrou que não há diferença entre tratamentos (p>0,05).
Afinite Kromatografisi Yöntemi ile Saflaştırılan Karbonik Anhidraz (I-II) İzoenzimleri Üzerine Bazı Pestisitlerin İn Vitro Etkilerinin Araştırılması
Authors: Baltacı Aybike , Gencer Nahit , Çıkrıkcı Kübra
Published: May 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı; çevre ve insan sağlığı için toksisitesi yüksek olan bazı pestisitlerin hidrataz aktivite yöntemi kullanılarak karbonik anhidraz izoenzimleri (hCA I ve II) üzerine etkilerini araştırmaktır. İnsan kan eritrositlerinden Sefaroz-4B-4-(6-Amino-heksilokzi)-benzensülfonamit afinite jeli kullanılarak hCA I ve II izoenzimleri saflaştırıldı. Enzimlerin saflığı; sodyum dodesil sülfat poliakrilamid jel elektroforezi ile kontrol edildi. Ayrıca bazı pestisitlerin hCAI-II izoenzimlerini in vitro ortamda µM düzeylerde inhibe ettiği belirlendi. Bu pestisitlerden hCA-I enzimi için en güçlü inhibitörün Simazin (IC50: 0,366 µM), en zayıf ise Koumatetralil (IC50: 6,41 µM) olduğu belirlendi. hCA-II enzimi için en güçlü inhibitörün Klorpirifos (IC50: 0,527 µM), en zayıf inhibitörün ise Koumatetralil (IC50: 8,74 µM) olduğu belirlendi.
Elektrikli Araçların Enerji Tüketimini Tahmin Etmede Makine Öğrenimi Algoritmalarının Performanslarının Karşılaştırılması
Authors: Aslan Emrah
Published: May 2024

Ulaştırma sektörünün hızlı büyümesi ve buna bağlı emisyonlar, çevresel sürdürülebilirliğin sağlanması önem teşkil etmektedir. Bu nedenle, ulaştırma emisyonlarının türetilme faktörünün anlaşılması son derece önemlidir. Artan ulaşım emisyonları karşısında elektrikli araçların (EA) rolü kullanımının yaygınlaştırılması önemlidir. Elektrikli araçlar düşük karbon ekonomisine ve sürdürülebilir çevreye giden yolu açmaktadır. Elektrikli araçların başarılı bir şekilde yaygınlaştırılması, büyük ölçüde enerji tüketimini verimli ve güvenilir bir şekilde tahmin edebilen enerji tüketim modellerine dayanmaktadır. Elektrikli araçların enerji tüketim verimliliğinin artırılması, sürücü endişesinin hafifletilmesine önemli ölçüde yardımcı olacak ve şarj altyapısının işletilmesi, planlanması ve yönetimi için temel bir çerçeve sağlayacaktır. Elektrikli araçların enerji tüketimi tahminindeki zorlukların üstesinden gelmek için veriler Japonya'nın Aichi Eyaletinde toplanmıştır. Çalışmada, elektrikli araçların enerji tüketiminin tahmini için geleneksel makine öğrenimi modelleri, Multi Output, Gradient Boosting, XGBoost ve Random Forest kullanılmıştır. Tahmin modellerinin performansını değerlendirmek için belirleme katsayısı (R^2), kök ortalama kare hatası (RMSE) ve ortalama mutlak hata (MAE) değerlendirme ölçütleri kullanılmıştır. Tahmin sonuçları, Gradient Boosting ve Multi Output birleşimi ile oluşturulan regresyon modeli iyi performans gösterdiğini ortaya koymaktadır. Daha yüksek R^2 değerlerine, daha düşük MAE ve RMSE değerlerine sahip Gradient Boosting ve Multi Output tabanlı modellerin daha doğru olduğu kanıtlanmıştır. Farklı girdi değişkenlerinin elektrikli araçların enerji tüketimi tahmini üzerindeki etkisini ve göreceli etkisini göstermek için ayrıntılı bir önemli özellik analizi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Sonuçlar, gelişmiş bir makine öğrenmesi modelinin elektrikli araçların enerji tüketiminin tahmin performansını artırabileceğini göstermektedir.
Rainfall erosivity assessment over a flooding basin, Kelani River basin, Sri Lanka
Authors: Niyas Zumry , Madhushani Charuni I. , Gunathilake Miyuru B. , Basnayaka Vindhya , Kantamaneni Komali , Rathnayake Upaka
Published: May 2024

This study evaluates the rainfall erosivity (RE) and erosivity density (ED) over the Kelani River basin, Sri Lanka for a period of 31 years (1990–2020). The river basin is well known for its annual floods during the southwestern monsoon season and severe erosion including landslides can be observed. The catchment was analyzed for its RE using the Wischmeier and Smith algorithm and for its ED using Kinnel's algorithm. The monthly rainfall data spreading over the river basin were used to analyze the monthly, seasonal, and annual RE and ED. Interestingly, the annual RE showed a linear increasing trend line over 31 years, and a maximum value of 2,831.41 MJ mm ha−1 h−1 yr−1 was able to be observed in the year 2016. The RE peaks in May which is in the southwestern monsoon season. This reveals that the risk of soil erosion in the basin is high in the southwestern monsoon season. In addition, land use and land cover changes over the years have adversely impacted the erosion rates. Therefore, it is highly recommended to investigate soil erosion in-depth and then implement relevant regulations to conserve the soil layers upstream of the river basin.
Today’s Trends of Software Product Import-Substitution in Conditions of Economy Digitalization
Authors: Zhukovskaya I. E.
Published: May 2024

Today software import-substitution in spheres and sectors of Russian economy is a priority trend in state programs being realized in the Russian Federation. The author analyzed governmental decisions concerning software import-substitution, studied software introduced in substituting foreign software at enterprises of Russian economy, showed its developers and prospects of its development. Apart from that, the article underlined that by 2025 according to state programs home-made software shall be used by organizations related to entities of critical information infrastructure such as banking sector, missile and space industry, military-industrial complex, nuclear and mining industry, public health service, science, iron-and-steel making and chemicals industry. At the same time import-substitution policy in general promotes upgrading of the payments balance structure, development of the academic sector and innovation technologies, growth in effective communication with developers of economic projects, where software is functioning, increase in the level and diversity of means and methods of information security, technological independence, population employment, cutting risks and raising competitiveness of industries and sectors of Russian economy. In line with numerous positive moments import-substitution policy demonstrates such drawback as closeness from some innovation of global economy. However, in conditions of sanctions the development of our own software, its efficient use in economic entities can provides cyber-security and technological independence.
The Use of Strategic Planning Tools for Diversification of Highly-Technological Enterprises in Russian Industry
Authors: Krapivin I. O.
Published: May 2024

In times of globalization, national economy reforming and intensification of integration processes the level of competitiveness of industrial enterprises is estimated by many factors, the key of them is innovation activity. Due to innovation the business entity has got an opportunity to strengthen its market positions, improve figures of economic efficiency and create big added value. At the same time results of innovation activity shall target at production and economic work of industrial enterprises and foster supply of new highly-technological goods and services to market, which can be provided by strategic planning. The efficiency of its implementation promotes successful introduction of innovation on market and obtaining sustainable competitive advantages. The author analyzed and studied challenges of strategic planning of innovation development and put forward methods of elaborating the system of strategic planning for diversification of highly-technological enterprises of Russian economy.