bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbe-mineral interactions within kimberlitic fine residue deposits: impacts on mineral carbonation
Authors: Jones Thomas Ray , Poitras Jordan , Levett Alan , da Silva Guilherme , Gunathunga Samadhi , Ryan Benjamin , Vietti Andrew , Langendam Andrew , Southam Gordon
Published: July 2024

The observation of photosynthetic biofilms growing on the Fine Residue Deposit (FRD) kimberlite produced by the Venetia Diamond Mine, Limpopo, South Africa suggests that processed kimberlite supports bacterial growth. The presence of this biofilm may aid in the acceleration of weathering of this ultra-mafic host material – a process that can sequester CO2 via carbon mineralization. Laboratory and field trial experiments were undertaken to understand the microbe–mineral interactions occurring in these systems, and how these interactions impact geochemical cycling and carbonate precipitation. At laboratory scale it was discovered that using kimberlite as a growth supplement increased biomass production (up to 25-fold) and promoted microbiome diversity, while the inoculation of FRD systems aided in the aggregation, settling, and dewatering of kimberlitic slurries. Field trial studies combining photosynthetic biofilms (cultured in 3 × 1,000 L bioreactors) with FRD material were initiated to better understand microbially enhanced mineral carbonation across different depths, and under field environmental conditions. Over the 15-month experiment the microbial populations shifted with the kimberlitic environmental pressure, with the control and inoculated systems converging. The natural endogenous biosphere (control) and the inoculum accelerated carbonate precipitation across the entire 40 cm bioreactor depth, producing average 15-month carbonation rates of 0.57 wt.% and 1.17 wt.%, respectively. This corresponds to an annual CO2e mine offset of ~4.48% and ~ 9.2%, respectively. Millimetre-centimetre scale secondary carbonate that formed in the inoculated bioreactors was determined to be biogenic in nature (i.e., possessing microbial fossils) and took the form of radiating colloform precipitates with the addition of new, mineralized colonies. Surficial conditions resulted in the largest production of secondary carbonate, consistent with a ca. 12% mine site CO2e annual offset after a 15-month incubation period.
Gaze alternation predicts inclusive next-speaker selection: evidence from eyetracking
Authors: Rühlemann Christoph
Published: July 2024

Next-speaker selection refers to the practices conversationalists rely on to designate who should speak next. Speakers have various methods available to them to select a next speaker. Certain actions, however, systematically co-select more than one particular participant to respond. These actions include asking “open-floor” questions, which are addressed to more than one recipient and that more than one recipient are eligible to answer. Here, next-speaker selection is inclusive. How are these questions multimodally designed? How does their multimodal design differ from the design of “closed-floor” questions, in which just one participant is selected as next speaker and where next-speaker selection is exclusive? Based on eyetracking data collected in naturalistic conversation, this study demonstrates that unlike closed-floor questions, open-floor questions can be predicted based on the speaker’s gaze alternation during the question. The discussion highlights cases of gaze alternation in open-floor questions and exhaustively explores deviant cases in closed-floor questions. It also addresses the functional relation of gaze alternation and gaze selection, arguing that the two selection techniques may collide, creating disorderly turntaking due to a fundamental change in participation framework from focally dyadic to inclusive. Data are in British and American English.
A matter of sex—persistent predictive value of MECKI score prognostic power in men and women with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: a multicenter study
Authors: Grilli Giulia , Salvioni Elisabetta , Moscucci Federica , Bonomi Alice , Sinagra Gianfranco , Schaeffer Michele , Campodonico Jeness , Mapelli Massimo , Rossi Maddalena , Carriere Cosimo , Emdin Michele , Piepoli Massimo , Paolillo Stefania , Senni Michele , Passino Claudio , Apostolo Anna , Re Federica , Santolamazza Caterina , Magrì Damiano , Lombardi Carlo M. , Corrà Ugo , Raimondo Rosa , Cittadini Antonio , Iorio Annamaria , Salzano Andrea , Lagioia Rocco , Vignati Carlo , Badagliacca Roberto , Passantino Andrea , Filardi Pasquale Perrone , Correale Michele , Perna Enrico , Girola Davide , Metra Marco , Cattadori Gaia , Guazzi Marco , Limongelli Giuseppe , Parati Gianfranco , De Martino Fabiana , Matassini Maria Vittoria , Bandera Francesco , Bussotti Maurizio , Scardovi Angela Beatrice , Sciomer Susanna , Agostoni Piergiuseppe ,   MECKI Score Research Group
Published: July 2024

Background

A sex-based evaluation of prognosis in heart failure (HF) is lacking.

Methods and results

We analyzed the Metabolic Exercise test data combined with Cardiac and Kidney Indexes (MECKI) score registry, which includes HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients. A cross-validation procedure was performed to estimate weights separately for men and women of all MECKI score parameters: left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), hemoglobin, kidney function assessed by Modification of Diet in Renal Disease, blood sodium level, ventilation vs. carbon dioxide production slope, and peak oxygen consumption (peakVO2). The primary outcomes were the composite of all-cause mortality, urgent heart transplant, and implant of a left ventricle assist device. The difference in predictive ability between the native and sex recalibrated MECKI (S-MECKI) was calculated using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve at 2 years and a calibration plot. We retrospectively analyzed 7,900 HFrEF patients included in the MECKI score registry (mean age 61 ± 13 years, 6,456 men/1,444 women, mean LVEF 33% ± 10%, mean peakVO2 56.2% ± 17.6% of predicted) with a median follow-up of 4.05 years (range 1.72–7.47). Our results revealed an unadjusted risk of events that was doubled in men compared to women (9.7 vs. 4.1) and a significant difference in weight between the sexes of most of the parameters included in the MECKI score. S-MECKI showed improved risk classification and accuracy (area under the ROC curve: 0.7893 vs. 0.7799, p = 0.02) due to prognostication improvement in the high-risk settings in both sexes (MECKI score >10 in men and >5 in women).

Conclusions

S-MECKI, i.e., the recalibrated MECKI according to sex-specific differences, constitutes a further step in the prognostic assessment of patients with severe HFrEF.
Lifting the veil: pyrogeographic manipulation and the leveraging of environmental change by people across the Vale of Belvoir, Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Fletcher Michael-Shawn , Romano Anthony , Nichols Scott , Henriquez Gonzalez William , Mariani Michela , Jaganjac Diana , Sculthorpe Andry
Published: July 2024

Humans undertake land management and care of landscapes to maintain safe, healthy, productive and predictable environments. Often, this is achieved through creating spatial and temporal heterogeneity in a way that leverages the natural world; both amplifying natural trends and, in some cases, driving shifts counter to natural processes. However, a persistent paradigm governing the understanding of proxy evidence of past human activity on the environment is that human agency is only recognized in proxy data when trends oppose what are expected to occur naturally. Framing research in such a way ignores the fact that people have, continue to, and will always leverage the environment in ways that both compliment and diverge from “natural” trends. Doing so masks, or erases, people from the histories of their territories and continues to perpetuate myths such as “wild” and “wilderness”, particularly in places that have in fact been shaped and maintained by people for long periods of time. Here, we synthesize geographical, dendrochronological, palaeoecological, archaeological and palaeoclimatic data to demonstrate how Palawa people (Tasmanian Aboriginal people) in Lutruwita (now known as Tasmania, southeast Australia) leveraged climatic change to convert unproductive forest vegetation to open forest and grassland to support higher occupation levels. The fine-scale heterogeneity we have identified reflects the diversity of ways in which, and the spatial scale that, the Palawa engage with their land. We caution against adopting coarse spatial scale (i.e., continental, regional, etc.) methodologies to reconstruct the influence of past societies over landscape evolution as they assume homogeneity of human cultures and of human influence on landscapes. We also reinforce calls for those researching past landscape change to abandon tropes of human agency acting only in opposition to the natural world. Such approaches are couched within a narrow cultural understanding of human-environment interactions and result in the erasure of Indigenous and local peoples' role in maintaining healthy, biodiverse and safe landscapes.
SHN: rock image classification and feature visualization using multiple granularity spatial disorder hierarchical residual network
Authors: Zhang Jian , Liu Maoyi , Guo Jingjing , Wu Daifeng , Wang Mingzhen , Zheng Shenhai
Published: July 2024

The automated classification of rock images is of paramount importance in geological analysis, as it serves as the foundational criterion for the categorization of rock lithology. Despite recent advancements in leveraging deep learning technologies to enhance the efficiency and precision of image classification, a crucial aspect has been overlooked: these methods face a performance bottleneck when attempting to apply it directly to rock classification methods. To address this limitation, we propose a multiple granularity Spatial disorder Hierarchical residual Network (SHN). This approach involves learning from objects annotated at different levels, thereby facilitating the transfer of hierarchical knowledge across levels. By enabling lower-level classes to inherit pertinent attributes from higher-level superclasses, our method aims to capture the intricate hierarchical relationships among different rock types. Especially, we introduce a multi-granularity spatial disorder module to aid neural networks in discerning discriminative details across various scales. This module enables processed images to exhibit region independence, compelling the network to adeptly identify discriminative local regions at diverse granularity levels and extract pertinent features. Furthermore, in light of the absence of a comprehensive rock dataset, this study amassed 4,227 rock images of diverse compositions from various places, culminating in the creation of a robust rock dataset for classification. Rigorous experimentation on this dataset yielded highly promising results, demonstrating the effectiveness of our proposed method in addressing the challenges of rock image classification.
The intersection of gender, rurality, income and school track in the university access mathematics tests scores
Authors: Giaconi Valentina , Mendoza Manuela , Honey Ngaire , Lemus-Cortez Enoc
Published: July 2024

Educational inequalities in access to higher education are constituted by multiple intersecting factors that impact equity and the pursuit of tertiary studies. This study seeks to explore the disparities related to gender, socioeconomic level, rurality or urbanicity, and academic trajectory of 202,688 Chilean students who graduated from high school in 2016, to elucidate how these variables generate intersections that impact access to higher education. To carry out the analysis, an intersectionality approach was considered and an innovative quantitative model called the Multilevel Analysis of Individual Heterogeneity and Discriminant Accuracy (MAIHDA) model was applied, which allows for entering multiple variables to generate a complex analysis of their interactions. The results showed that a large amount of variance (20%) in math scores is explained by the aforementioned variables. These are socio-demographic variables, which ideally should not be indicative of one’s academic performance. It was also found that males, students of higher socioeconomic status, those from urban areas, and those with more favorable academic trajectories tend to have higher test scores. In addition, relevant interactions and mutual reinforcement between variables were identified. These results highlight the need to address the barriers and inequalities certain groups face in accessing higher education.
Admission blood glucose and 30-day mortality in patients with acute decompensated heart failure: prognostic significance in individuals with and without diabetes
Authors: Hu Jing , Yang Hongyi , Yu Meng , Yu Changhui , Qiu Jiajun , Xie Guobo , Sheng Guotai , Kuang Maobin , Zou Yang
Published: July 2024

Objective

Diabetes is a significant risk factor for acute heart failure, associated with an increased risk of mortality. This study aims to analyze the prognostic significance of admission blood glucose (ABG) on 30-day mortality in Chinese patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), with or without diabetes.

Methods

This retrospective study included 1,462 participants from the JX-ADHF1 cohort established between January 2019 to December 2022. We conducted multivariate cox regression, restricted cubic spline, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and mediation analysis to explore the association and potential mechanistic pathways (inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrition) between ABG and 30-day mortality in ADHF patients, with and without diabetes.

Results

During the 30-day follow-up, we recorded 20 (5.36%) deaths in diabetic subjects and 33 (3.03%) in non-diabetics. Multivariate Cox regression revealed that ABG was independently associated with 30-day mortality in ADHF patients, with a stronger association in diabetics than non-diabetics (hazard ratio: Model 1: 1.71 vs 1.16; Model 2: 1.26 vs 1.19; Model 3: 1.65 vs 1.37; Model 4: 1.76 vs 1.33). Further restricted cubic spline analysis indicated a U-shaped relationship between ABG and 30-day mortality in non-diabetic ADHF patients (P for non-linearity < 0.001), with the lowest risk at ABG levels approximately between 5-7 mmol/L. Additionally, receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that ABG had a higher predictive accuracy for 30-day mortality in diabetics (area under curve = 0.8751), with an optimal threshold of 13.95mmol/L. Finally, mediation analysis indicated a significant role of inflammation in ABG-related 30-day mortality in ADHF, accounting for 11.15% and 8.77% of the effect in diabetics and non-diabetics, respectively (P-value of proportion mediate < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study confirms that ABG is a vital indicator for assessing and predicting 30-day mortality risk in ADHF patients with diabetes. For ADHF patients, both with and without diabetes, our evidence suggests that physicians should be alert and closely monitor any changes in patient conditions when ABG exceeds 13.95 mmol/L for those with diabetes and 7.05 mmol/L for those without. Timely adjustments in therapeutic strategies, including endocrine and anti-inflammatory treatments, are advisable.
Stress hyperglycemia ratio and the clinical outcome of patients with heart failure: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Liang , Zhao Zhikun , Wang Shasha , Wang Jiajia
Published: July 2024

Background

Stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) is a newly suggested measure of stress-induced hyperglycemia that combines both short-term and long-term glycemic conditions. The study aimed to explore the association between SHR and the incidence of adverse clinical events with heart failure (HF) through a meta-analysis.

Methods

Cohort studies relevant to the aim of the meta-analysis were retrieved by search of electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Wanfang, and CNKI. A random-effects model was used to combine the data by incorporating the influence of between-study heterogeneity.

Results

Ten studies involving 15250 patients with HF were included. Pooled results showed that compared to patients with lower SHR at baseline, those with a higher SHR were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality during follow-up (risk ratio [RR]: 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17 to 2.21, p = 0.003; I2 = 82%). Further meta-regression analysis suggests that different in the cutoff of SHR significantly modify the results (coefficient = 1.22, p = 0.02), and the subgroup analysis suggested a more remarkable association between SHR and all-cause mortality in studies with cutoff of SHR ≥ 1.05 than those with cutoff of SHR < 1.05 (RR: 2.29 versus 1.08, p for subgroup difference < 0.001). Subsequent meta-analyses also showed that a high SHR at baseline was related to the incidence of cardiovascular death (RR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.55 to 3.09, p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), HF-rehospitalization (RR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.44 to 2.33, p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), and major adverse cardiovascular events (RR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.15 to 2.06, p = 0.004; I2 = 74%) during follow-up.

Conclusion

A high SHR at baseline is associated with a poor clinical prognosis of patients with HF.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com, identifier INPLASY202430080.
Investigating the complex interplay between fibroblast activation protein α-positive cancer associated fibroblasts and the tumor microenvironment in the context of cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Kraxner Anton , Braun Franziska , Cheng Wei-Yi , Yang Tai-Hsien Ou , Pipaliya Shweta , Canamero Marta , Andersson Emilia , Harring Suzana Vega , Dziadek Sebastian , Bröske Ann-Marie E. , Ceppi Maurizio , Tanos Tamara , Teichgräber Volker , Charo Jehad
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study investigates the role of Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP)-positive cancer-associated fibroblasts (FAP+CAF) in shaping the tumor immune microenvironment, focusing on its association with immune cell functionality and cytokine expression patterns.

Methods

Utilizing immunohistochemistry, we observed elevated FAP+CAF density in metastatic versus primary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tumors, with higher FAP+CAF correlating with increased T cell infiltration in RCC, a unique phenomenon illustrating the complex interplay between tumor progression, FAP+CAF density, and immune response.

Results

Analysis of immune cell subsets in FAP+CAF-rich stromal areas further revealed significant correlations between FAP+ stroma and various T cell types, particularly in RCC and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This was complemented by transcriptomic analyses, expanding the range of stromal and immune cell subsets interrogated, as well as to additional tumor types. This enabled evaluating the association of these subsets with tumor infiltration, tumor vascularization and other components of the tumor microenvironment. Our comprehensive study also encompassed cytokine, angiogenesis, and inflammation gene signatures across different cancer types, revealing heterogeneous cellular composition, cytokine expressions and angiogenic profiles. Through cytokine pathway profiling, we explored the relationship between FAP+CAF density and immune cell states, uncovering potential immunosuppressive circuits that limit anti-tumor activity in tumor-resident immune cells.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the complexity of tumor biology and the necessity for personalized therapeutic and patient enrichment approaches. The insights gathered from FAP+CAF prevalence, immune infiltration, and gene signatures provide valuable perspectives on tumor microenvironments, aiding in future research and clinical strategy development.
Suppression of interferon α and γ response by Huwe1-mediated Miz1 degradation promotes SARS-CoV-2 replication
Authors: Arunagiri Vinothini , Cooper Laura , Dong Huali , Class Jake , Biswas Indrani , Vahora Sujan , Deshpande Riddhi , Gopani Khushi H. , Hu Guochang , Richner Justin M. , Rong Lijun , Liu Jing
Published: July 2024

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been demonstrated to limit the host interferon response; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we found that SARS-CoV-2 infection upregulated the E3 ubiquitin ligase Huwe1, which in turn facilitated the degradation of the transcription factor Miz1. The degradation of Miz1 hampered interferon alpha and gamma responses, consequently fostering viral replication and impeding viral clearance. Conversely, silencing or inhibiting Huwe1 enhanced the interferon responses, effectively curbing viral replication. Consistently, overexpressing Miz1 augmented the interferon responses and limited viral replication, whereas silencing Miz1 had the opposite effect. Targeting Huwe1 or overexpressing Miz1 elicited transcriptomic alterations characterized by enriched functions associated with bolstered antiviral response and diminished virus replication. Further study revealed Miz1 exerted epigenetic control over the transcription of specific interferon signaling molecules, which acted as common upstream regulators responsible for the observed transcriptomic changes following Huwe1 or Miz1 targeting. These findings underscore the critical role of the Huwe1-Miz1 axis in governing the host antiviral response, with its dysregulation contributing to the impaired interferon response observed during COVID-19.
Transfer of celiac disease-associated immunogenic gluten peptides in breast milk: variability in kinetics of secretion
Authors: Ruiz-Carnicer Ángela , Segura Verónica , Moreno María de Lourdes , Coronel-Rodríguez Cristóbal , Sousa Carolina , Comino Isabel
Published: July 2024

Background

Exposure to antigens is crucial for child immune system development, aiding disease prevention and promoting infant health. Some common food antigen proteins are found in human breast milk. However, it is unclear whether gluten antigens linked to celiac disease (CD) are transmitted through breast milk, potentially impacting the development of the infant’s immune system.

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the passage of gluten immunogenic peptides (GIP) into human breast milk. We evaluated the dynamics of GIP secretion after lactating mothers adopted a controlled gluten-rich diet.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 96 non-CD and 23 CD lactating mothers, assessing total proteins and casein in breast milk, and GIP levels in breast milk and urine. Subsequently, a longitudinal study was conducted in a subgroup of 12 non-CD lactating mothers who adopted a controlled gluten-rich diet. GIP levels in breast milk and urine samples were assayed by multiple sample collections over 96 hours.

Results

Analysis of a single sample revealed that 24% of non-CD lactating mothers on a regular unrestricted diet tested positive for GIP in breast milk, and 90% tested positive in urine, with significantly lower concentrations in breast milk. Nevertheless, on a controlled gluten-rich diet and the collection of multiple samples, GIP were detected in 75% and 100% of non-CD participants in breast milk and urine, respectively. The transfer dynamics in breast milk samples were long-enduring and GIP secretion persisted from 0 to 72 h. In contrast, GIP secretion in urine samples was limited to the first 24 h, with inter-individual variations. In the cohort of CD mothers, 82.6% and 87% tested negative for GIP in breast milk and urine, respectively.

Conclusions

This study definitively established the presence of GIP in breast milk, with substantial inter-individual variations in secretion dynamics. Our findings provide insights into distinct GIP kinetics observed in sequentially collected breast milk and urine samples, suggesting differential gluten metabolism patterns depending on the organ or system involved. Future research is essential to understand whether GIP functions as sensitizing or tolerogenic agents in the immune system of breastfed infants.
Observational data on the reproductive condition of female Oceania fantail rays, Taeniura lessoni, from Drawaqa Island, Fiji
Authors: Glaus Kerstin , Vierus Tom , Macfarlane Robert
Published: July 2024

Data on the reproductive biology of elasmobranchs are essential for understanding their life history. Published studies on batoid ray reproductive biology are comparatively scarce, leading to limited understanding and data gaps. The Oceania fantail ray, Taeniura lessoni, is a good example. This Data Deficient nearshore stingray is restricted to Melanesia, with lacking biological and ecological data, including reproduction. To expand upon the limited life-history data for this species, this short paper provides observational data on the reproductive condition in female T. lessoni, at Drawaqa Island, Fiji. Field work involved direct observations and ocean temperature measurements. Over 40 days spanning three months, 105 surveys were conducted across five sites, resulting in 71 sightings of the species. Based on spot patterns and body markings, four female individuals were identified. Between January and March 2024, these females exhibited convex dorsa indicating advanced gestation, transitioning to concave dorsa suggesting parturition. The presence of neonates from early March onwards coincided with the estimated parturition period inferred from the rays' condition. Furthermore, a female previously pregnant was photographed with a dermal abrasion around her pectoral fin, possibly indicating pre-copulatory biting, suggesting a continuous reproductive cycle. The average monthly water temperature at the surveyed sites remained relatively stable throughout the study. Collectively, our findings suggest that Drawaqa Island provides suitable habitat niches for reproductive activities in female T. lessoni. Repeated and long-term data is certainly needed to confirm either a continuous reproductive cycle or seasonal peaks. While preliminary, our observational data represents the first documentation on female reproductive condition in a stingray in Fiji.
A mesoscale eddy reconstruction method based on generative adversarial networks
Authors: Ma Xiaodong , Zhang Lei , Xu Weishuai , Li Maolin , Zhou Xingyu
Published: July 2024

Mesoscale eddies are phenomena that widely exist in the ocean and have a significant impact on the ocean’s temperature and salt structure, as well as on acoustic propagation effects. Currently, utilizing the limited data on mesoscale eddy environments for refined acoustic field reconstruction in offshore conditions at mid-to-far-ocean distances is an urgent problem that needs to be addressed. In this paper, we propose a mesoscale eddy reconstruction method (EddyGAN) based on the generative adversarial network (GAN) model which is inspired by the concept of global localization. We adopt a hybrid algorithm for eddy identification using JCOPE2M high-resolution reanalysis data and Archiving, Validation, and Interpretation of Satellite Oceanographic (AVISO) satellite altimeter data to extract mesoscale eddy sound speed profile (SSP) sample data, and then apply the EddyGAN model to train this dataset and perform mesoscale eddy acoustic field reconstruction. We also propose an evaluation method for mesoscale eddy acoustic field reconstruction that uses RMSE, SSIM, and convergence zone (CZ) accuracy based on World Ocean Atlas (WOA) climate state data completion as indicators. The reconstruction result of this model achieves an RMSE of 1.7 m/s, an SSIM of 0.77, and an average CZ accuracy of over 70%. This method better characterizes the mesoscale eddy sound field than the native GAN and other reconstruction methods, improves the accuracy of mesoscale eddy acoustic field reconstruction, and provides superior performance, offering significant reference value for mesoscale eddy reconstruction technology and subsequent ocean acoustic research.
Spatial network structure and formation mechanism of China’s marine science and technology innovation efficiency from the perspective of innovation value chain
Authors: Chen Xiaolong , Di Qianbin , Jia Wenhan , Zhang Jie , Liang Chenlu
Published: July 2024

Research on the marine science and technology innovation efficiency (MSTE) from the perspective of innovation value chain is not only an inevitable requirement for in-depth exploration of Marine science and technology innovation activities, but also an important guidance for the sustainable development and optimization of marine economy. Based on the innovation value chain perspective, the marine science and technology innovation process is divided into three phases: basic innovation, applied research and development, and gainful transformation, and the chain network DEA model is used to measure the MSTE of 11 provinces and municipalities along the coast of China from 2007 to 2021; the modified gravity model and social network analysis are used to examine the spatial correlation network characteristics of the marine MSTE at different phases and their influencing factors. The results show that the spatial correlation of China marine MSTE gradually develops from a sparse and dispersed state to a close trend, and the three phases gradually show a development pattern from unicentre, polycentre and networked. There is no strict hierarchical structure in the spatial correlation network of marine MSTE, the applied research and development and revenue transformation phases are more relevant than the basic innovation phase, and the cross-regional collaborative innovation needs to be improved. The high-efficiency provinces have a strong ability to radiate the MSTE to other provinces, and can absorb a large amount of innovation resources. The spatial correlation network of MSTE development has formed four plates of two-way spillover, broker, net spillover and net benefit in all three phases, and the transmission of kinetic energy of regional MSTE development has obvious gradient characteristics. The strength of government support, marine industry structure, and marine management services are conducive to enhancing the spatial correlation of the three phases of innovation development. Through this study, we can not only grasp the overall pattern and development dynamics of China Marine science and technology innovation, but also deeply analyze the internal logic and formation mechanism of its spatial correlation network structure, so as to provide scientific basis for optimizing resource allocation and improving innovation efficiency.
Enhanced feature selection and ensemble learning for cardiovascular disease prediction: hybrid GOL2-2 T and adaptive boosted decision fusion with babysitting refinement
Authors: Praveen S. Phani , Hasan Mohammad Kamrul , Abdullah Siti Norul Huda Sheikh , Sirisha Uddagiri , Tirumanadham N. S. Koti Mani Kumar , Islam Shayla , Ahmed Fatima Rayan Awad , Ahmed Thowiba E. , Noboni Ayman Afrin , Sampedro Gabriel Avelino , Yeun Chan Yeob , Ghazal Taher M.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Global Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still one of the leading causes of death and requires the enhancement of diagnostic methods for the effective detection of early signs and prediction of the disease outcomes. The current diagnostic tools are cumbersome and imprecise especially with complex diseases, thus emphasizing the incorporation of new machine learning applications in differential diagnosis.

Methods

This paper presents a new machine learning approach that uses MICE for mitigating missing data, the IQR for handling outliers and SMOTE to address first imbalance distance. Additionally, to select optimal features, we introduce the Hybrid 2-Tier Grasshopper Optimization with L2 regularization methodology which we call GOL2-2T. One of the promising methods to improve the predictive modelling is an Adaboost decision fusion (ABDF) ensemble learning algorithm with babysitting technique implemented for the hyperparameters tuning. The accuracy, recall, and AUC score will be considered as the measures for assessing the model.

Results

On the results, our heart disease prediction model yielded an accuracy of 83.0%, and a balanced F1 score of 84.0%. The integration of SMOTE, IQR outlier detection, MICE, and GOL2-2T feature selection enhances robustness while improving the predictive performance. ABDF removed the impurities in the model and elaborated its effectiveness, which proved to be high on predicting the heart disease.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of additional machine learning methodologies in medical diagnostics, including early recognition improvements and trustworthy tools for clinicians. But yes, the model’s use and extent of work depends on the dataset used for it really. Further work is needed to replicate the model across different datasets and samples: as for most models, it will be important to see if the results are generalizable to populations that are not representative of the patient population that was used for the current study.
Emerging roles of bacteriophage-based therapeutics in combating antibiotic resistance
Authors: Subramanian Anandhalakshmi
Published: July 2024

Amid the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance on a global scale, there has been a notable resurgence in bacteriophage-based treatments, signaling a shift in our approach to managing infections. Bacteriophages (BPs), bacterial predators of nature, present a promising alternative for tackling infections caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This review delves into the intricate relationship between bacteriophages and resistant bacteria, exploring various treatment strategies. Drawing upon both preclinical and clinical studies, the review highlights the effectiveness of bacteriophage therapy, particularly when integrated synergistically with conventional antibiotics. It discusses various treatment approaches for systemic and localized infections, demonstrating the adaptability of bacteriophage therapy across different clinical scenarios. Furthermore, the formulation and delivery of bacteriophages shed light on the various methods used to encapsulate and administer them effectively. It also acknowledges the challenge of bacterial resistance to bacteriophages and the ongoing efforts to overcome this hurdle. In addition, this review highlights the importance of the bacteriophage sensitivity profile (phagogram), which helps tailor treatment regimens to individual patients and specific pathogens. By surpassing the limitations of traditional antibiotics, bacteriophage-based therapies offer a personalized and potent solution against antibiotic resistance, promising to reshape the future of infectious disease management.
Introduction of Avian metapneumovirus subtype A to the United States: molecular insights and implications
Authors: Goraichuk Iryna V. , Torchetti Mia K. , Killian Mary L. , Kapczynski Darrell R. , Sary Kathleen , Kulkarni Arun , Suarez David L.
Published: July 2024

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) poses a significant threat to the poultry industry worldwide, primarily affecting turkeys and chickens. The recent detection of aMPV-A and -B subtypes in the United States marks a significant shift after a prolonged period free of aMPV following the eradication of the previously circulating subtype C. Hence, the demand for molecular diagnostic tests for aMPV has arisen due to their limited availability in the US market. In this study, we present the molecular characterization based on the complete genome sequence of aMPV subtype A, which was detected in the US for the first time. Four RT-qPCR positive samples were subjected to next-generation sequencing analysis, resulting in the assembly of one complete and one near-complete genome sequences. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolated strains clustered within the aMPV-A subtype and were most closely related to recent Mexican strains. A detailed amino acid analysis identified unique mutations in the G gene of the US isolates compared to Mexican strains. Additionally, we compared the performance, cross-reactivity, and limit of detection of our revised aMPV subtype-specific RT-qPCR test with two commercial kits, demonstrating similar detection and subtyping capabilities. These findings highlight the importance of accurate diagnostic methods for disease management in the poultry industry, provide valuable insights into the epidemiology of aMPV, and underscore the need for continued vigilance and surveillance to mitigate its impact on poultry production.
Exploring the targetome of IsrR, an iron-regulated sRNA controlling the synthesis of iron-containing proteins in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Ganske Alexander , Busch Larissa Milena , Hentschker Christian , Reder Alexander , Michalik Stephan , Surmann Kristin , Völker Uwe , Mäder Ulrike
Published: July 2024

Staphylococcus aureus is a common colonizer of the skin and nares of healthy individuals, but also a major cause of severe human infections. During interaction with the host, pathogenic bacteria must adapt to a variety of adverse conditions including nutrient deprivation. In particular, they encounter severe iron limitation in the mammalian host through iron sequestration by haptoglobin and iron-binding proteins, a phenomenon called “nutritional immunity.” In most bacteria, including S. aureus, the ferric uptake regulator (Fur) is the key regulator of iron homeostasis, which primarily acts as a transcriptional repressor of genes encoding iron acquisition systems. Moreover, Fur can control the expression of trans-acting small regulatory RNAs that play an important role in the cellular iron-sparing response involving major changes in cellular metabolism under iron-limiting conditions. In S. aureus, the sRNA IsrR is controlled by Fur, and most of its predicted targets are iron-containing proteins and other proteins related to iron metabolism and iron-dependent pathways. To characterize the IsrR targetome on a genome-wide scale, we combined proteomics-based identification of potential IsrR targets using S. aureus strains either lacking or constitutively expressing IsrR with an in silico target prediction approach, thereby suggesting 21 IsrR targets, of which 19 were negatively affected by IsrR based on the observed protein patterns. These included several Fe-S cluster- and heme-containing proteins, such as TCA cycle enzymes and catalase encoded by katA. IsrR affects multiple metabolic pathways connected to the TCA cycle as well as the oxidative stress response of S. aureus and links the iron limitation response to metabolic remodeling. In contrast to the majority of target mRNAs, the IsrR-katA mRNA interaction is predicted upstream of the ribosome binding site, and further experiments including mRNA half-life measurements demonstrated that IsrR, in addition to inhibiting translation initiation, can downregulate target protein levels by affecting mRNA stability.
Increased dual-task interference during upper limb movements in stroke exceeding that found in aging – a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lindberg Påvel G. , AmirShemiraniha Nadia , Krewer Carmen , Maier Marc A. , Hermsdörfer Joachim
Published: July 2024

Objective

To determine whether dual-task interference during upper limb tasks is increased in patients after stroke compared to healthy older subjects and to compare magnitude of stroke-induced change in interference to that explained by aging.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Google Scholar and PEDro databases up to October 2023 for studies on upper limb dual-tasks in stroke and elderly healthy subjects. Eleven upper limb dual-task studies in stroke patients and 11 studies in healthy older subjects were identified and systematically reviewed. A meta-analysis was performed on seven stroke studies and on five studies in healthy older subjects that included control groups.

Results

Most stroke studies investigated proximal arm movements with kinematic measures, but few studies evaluated manual dexterity. In contrast, studies in healthy older subjects used more distal (finger tapping) tasks. The meta-analysis showed that stroke patients had on average a 19% (CI 95% = 1.0–37.3) increase in dual-task interference compared to age-matched healthy controls (Z = 2.06, p = 0.04). Older healthy subjects showed greater dual-task interference compared to younger subjects (19% greater, CI 95% = 6.5–31.2, Z = 2.98, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Meta-analysis revealed an increase in dual-task interference during upper limb movements in stroke patients, exceeding age-related changes, supporting the presence of subclinical impairments in divided attention post-stroke that may impede motor recovery.
The efficacy of acupuncture for trigeminal neuralgia: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: He Hong-xian , Li Ya-xin , Xiao Ya-song , Fan Wen-hui , Xue Hua
Published: July 2024

Background

Many systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analysis (MAs) have reported the efficacy of acupuncture treatment for primary trigeminal neuralgia (PTN), but the quality of evidence is unknown and therefore needs to be evaluated comprehensively.

Methods

Eight electronic databases were searched from their inception until January 5, 2024. The methodological quality, reporting quality, and risk of bias of the included SRs were assessed by the assessment of multiple systematic reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2), the Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) tool, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The quality of evidence for outcome measures was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

We identified 13 SRs/MAs met inclusion criteria. According to the results of the AMSTAR-2, six were rated as critically low quality and seven as low quality. According to ROBIS assessment, 8 SRs/MAs were classified as low risk, and 5 SRs/MAs were found to be high risk. The PRISMA report still has some reporting deficiencies in aspects such as protocol and registration, search strategy, risk of bias, additional analyzes and funding. According to the GRADE system, no high-quality evidence was found, 1 was of moderate quality, 4 were of low quality, and 8 were of critical low quality.

Conclusion

Based on the evidence collected, acupuncture shows promise as a treatment for PTN patients. However, it is important to note that the included SRs/MAs generally have low methodological quality and evidence quality. Therefore, caution must be exercised when interpreting this conclusion. To enhance future research in this area, it is recommended to adequately report methodological details and adhere to guidelines for conducting SRs/MAs.

Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024499280.
Interaction effect between blood selenium levels and stroke history on all-cause mortality: a retrospective cohort study of NHANES
Authors: Li Yanli , Liu Lanqun , Yang Zufu , Xu Jimin
Published: July 2024

Aim

The study aimed to investigate the interaction effect between blood selenium levels and stroke history on all-cause mortality.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, participant data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2018. The covariates were screened via the backward selection method in weighted univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. Weighted univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were conducted to investigate the association of blood selenium and stroke history with all-cause mortality. The results were expressed as hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The synergy index (SI) was used to assess the assistive interaction. The association was further explored in different gender groups.

Results

Totally, 8,989 participants were included, of whom 861 (9.57%) died. Participants with blood selenium ≥192.96 ug/L were associated with lower odds of all-cause mortality (HR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.58–0.84), whereas those with a stroke history were associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.15–2.16). Compared to participants with blood selenium ≥192.96 ug/L and non-stroke history, participants with both blood selenium < 192.96 ug/L and stroke history had a higher all–cause mortality risk (HR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.62–3.29; SI = 0.713, 95% CI: 0.533–0.952). All participants with blood selenium < 192.96 ug/L and stroke history were related to higher all–cause mortality risk (HR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.21–2.13). In males, the interaction effect of blood selenium and stroke history on all–cause mortality (HR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.50–3.46; SI = 0.651, 95% CI: 0.430–0.986) increased twice.

Conclusion

Blood selenium and stroke history have an interaction effect on all-cause mortality. Increasing selenium-rich food or supplement intake, especially for individuals with a stroke history, may improve poor prognosis.
Maternal docosahexaenoic acid supplementation during lactation improves exercise performance, enhances intestinal glucose absorption and modulates gut microbiota in weaning offspring mice
Authors: Lu Dalu , Yao Die , Hu Gaoli , Zhou Jiefei , Shen Xiuhua , Qian Linxi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Intestinal dysfunction induced by weaning stress is common during breastfeeding period. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is well known for promoting visual and brain development, but its effects on early intestinal development remain unknown. This study investigated the impact of maternal DHA supplementation during lactation on intestinal glucose absorption and gut microbiota in weaning offspring mice.

Materials and methods

Dams were supplemented with vehicle (control), 150 mg/(kg body weight · day) DHA (L-DHA), or 450 mg/(kg body weight · day) DHA (H-DHA) throughout lactation by oral administration. After weaning, pups were randomly divided into three groups for athletic analysis, microbial and proteomic analysis, biochemical analysis, 4-deoxy-4-fluoro-D-glucose (4-FDG) absorption test, and gene expression quantitation of glucose transport-associated proteins and mTOR signaling components.

Results

The H-DHA group exhibited enhanced grip strength and prolonged swimming duration compared to the control group. Additionally, there were significant increases in jejunal and ileal villus height, and expanded surface area of jejunal villi in the H-DHA group. Microbial analyses revealed that maternal DHA intake increased the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria and promoted metabolic pathways linked to carbohydrate and energy metabolism. Proteomic studies indicated an increased abundance of nutrient transport proteins and enrichment of pathways involved in absorption and digestion in the H-DHA group. This group also showed higher concentrations of glucose in the jejunum and ileum, as well as elevated glycogen levels in the liver and muscles, in contrast to lower glucose levels in the intestinal contents and feces compared to the control group. The 4-FDG absorption test showed more efficient absorption after oral 4-FDG gavage in the H-DHA group. Moreover, the expressions of glucose transport-associated proteins, GLUT2 and SGLT1, and the activation of mTOR pathway were enhanced in the H-DHA group compared to the control group. The L-DHA group also showed similar but less pronounced improvements in these aspects relative to the H-DHA group.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that maternal DHA supplementation during lactation improves the exercise performance, enhances the intestinal glucose absorption by increasing the expressions of glucose transporters, and beneficially alters the structure of gut microbiome in weaning offspring mice.