bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between amino acid intake patterns and both general and central obesity
Authors: Alijani Fahimeh , Ahmadi Ali , Mohammadpour Nakisa , Jazayeri Shima , Abolghasemi Jamileh , Shahinfar Hossein , Khorasanian Atie Sadat , Rimaz Shahnaz
Published: April 2024

Background: Obesity is a threat to public health. Dietary protein and certain amino acids (AAs) have been associated with obesity; however, the association of AAs patterns with excess body weight has not been considered, yet. We aimed to examine the relationship between patterns of AA intake and obesity.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 3197 individuals aged 35 to 70 years. Sociodemographic, medical, physical activity, and anthropometric data were collected. Energy and AAs intake were obtained by food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Factor analysis was utilized to determine the AA patterns. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, the odds ratio (OR) of obesity was calculated among individuals categorized into tertiles of the AAs patterns.
Results: In this study, three AA patterns were identified. The aromatic pattern consists of phenylalanine, tryptophan, proline, glutamic acid, cysteine, serine, and leucine. Five essential AAs plus tyrosine, aspartic acid, arginine, and glycine were the components of the mixed pattern, and finally, the alanine pattern with high loadings for alanine and histidine was the third one. After adjusting for confounders, individuals in the highest tertile (T3) of the aromatic pattern had lower odds of developing central obesity compared to those in the lowest tertile (T1) (OR=0.72, 95% CI: 0.58-0.89; p=0.003), whereas this association was not observed in the alanine pattern. On the contrary, general obesity showed a positive association in T3 of the alanine pattern in comparison with T1 (OR=1.65, 95% CI: 1.02-2.67; p=0.039). Mixed pattern was not associated with any of the obesity types.
Conclusions: The aromatic pattern intake may have an inverse association with central obesity, and following the alanine pattern my contribute to higher odds of developing general obesity. However, the elaborate relationship between AAs and adiposity warrants further investigation.
The causal associations between screen exposure time and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a two-sample Mendelian randomization
Authors: Fang Qiong , Cai Yuehao , Kang Jing , Zhang Yiyan , Ye Fubiao
Published: April 2024

Background Observational studies have showed that there was controversy over whether screen exposure could induce attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Therefore, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted to explore the potential genetic association between screen exposure time and ADHD.
Methods This study selected genetic variations in screen exposure time as instrumental variables (IVs) that included relevant genotype data of European populations from 437,887 cases time spent watching television (TSWT), 456,972 cases length of mobile phone use (LMPU), and 360,895 cases time spent using computer (TSUC), respectively. Simultaneously 20,183 cases European ADHD populations were selected as genome-wide association study data. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary approach for analysis.
Results Research has shown that TSWT and LMPU have a positive and causal effect in increasing the risk of ADHD. According to the IVW analysis, the risk of ADHD with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.454631 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.460256 - 4.850909], P = 8.17611E-13 in TSWT. The risk with OR of 2.0063796 (95%CI: 1.30737263 - 3.079121), P = 0.001440136 in LMPU. However, no causal effect of TSUC on ADHD was found in the analysis.
Conclusion The MR analysis provided evidence of the causal role of TSWT and LMPU in increasing the risk of ADHD. This suggests screen exposure might be a potential environmental risk factor for the development of ADHD.
Age-group-specific associations between adenoid/tonsillar hypertrophy and craniofacial features
Authors: Huang Liping , Zheng Liyuan , Chen Xiaobo , Bai Yuming
Published: April 2024

Background
Age plays an important role in the association between adenotonsillar hypertrophy and craniofacial morphology. This study aimed to analyse the association of adenoid and tonsillar hypertrophy with craniofacial features in different age groups.
Methods
Lateral cephalograms were obtained from 942 patients aged 6–15 years (433 boys, 509 girls). They were divided into three age groups: 6–9 years (n = 189), 9–12 years (n = 383), and 12–15 years (n = 370). According to the different sites of pharyngeal obstruction, they were classified as control group (CG), adenoid hypertrophy group (AG), tonsillar hypertrophy group (TG) and adenotonsillar hypertrophy group (ATG). Cephalometric measurements were performed on each enrolled participant. Comparisons between groups and correlations between these cephalometric variables and obstruction sites were evaluated.
Results
At 6–9 years of age, ATG and TG correlated with increased mandibular height (B = 2.2, p = 0.029; B = 2.6, p = 0.042, respectively). At the age of 9–12 years, AG showed a steep growth direction (B = 1.5, p = 0.002), TG showed a higher probability of Class III skeletal pattern (smaller SNB, ANB and SGn/FH, larger Go-Me) and ATG manifested a higher proportion of Class III skeletal pattern. At 12–15 years of age, there was no significant association between cephalometric measurements and pharyngeal lymphoid tissue enlargement.
Conclusions
Children with isolated adenoid hypertrophy have a vertical growth direction at 9–12 years of age. Isolated adenoid hypertrophy correlated with longer mandibular body, more anterior mandible and horizontal skeletal Class III pattern at 6–12 years. Combination of obstructive adenoids and tonsils manifested similarly to children with isolated tonsil hypertrophy.
Full range of vision and visual quality after mini-monovision FS-LASIK in high myopic patients with age-related accommodative deficiency
Authors: Zhang Ruiyu , Yuan Yifei , Zhang Yu , Chen Yueguo
Published: April 2024

Background
To evaluate clinical outcomes and visual quality 3 months after mini-monovision femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) for correction of high myopia in patients with age-related accommodation deficiency.
Methods
Patients who had mini-monovision FS-LASIK for high myopia (spherical equivalent [SE] < -6.0 D) and aged between 40 and 50 years were included. At the 3-month postoperative visit, we evaluated full range of visual acuity; defocus curve; optical quality; accommodation function, contrast sensitivity and stereopsis. Binocular tests were done twice, once in mini-monovision condition and once with the residual myopia in the non-dominant eye corrected. Subjective visual quality was evaluated with questionnaire.
Results
Clinical data of 31 cases were analyzed. The average patient age was 42.58 ± 3.06 years. At the 3-month follow-up, the mean uncorrected binocular visual acuity at distance, intermediate, and near was − 0.11 ± 0.07, -0.06 ± 0.10, and 0.04 ± 0.11 logMAR separately. In comparison, full distance correction group achieved better UDVA (P = 0.02), and the monovision group achieved superior UNVA (P = 0.04). FS-LASIK induced significant increases in higher-order aberrations (HOAs) (P < 0.001). For accommodative function, only the negative relative accommodation (NRA) improved significantly after surgery (P < 0.001). A slight decrease in contrast sensitivity was observed at low spatial frequency with monovision (P < 0.05). Questionnaire demonstrated high satisfaction with near vision and visual quality.
Conclusion
FS-LASIK with mini-monovision appeared to be safe and effective in treating high myopia combined with age-related accommodation deficiency to get satisfying visual quality at distant and at near.
Electrophysiological Demonstration of Motor Reorganization in Healthy Hemispheres of Patients with Intractable Epilepsy due to Early Unilateral Brain Damage
Authors: İşler Cihan , Taşkıran Emine , Baş Gülçin , Türk Bengi Gül , Özkara Çiğdem , Uzan Mustafa
Published: April 2024

Background: The functional reorganization of motor functions is a sign of adaptive brain plasticity to brain damage and understanding its mechanisms may be a key role to many treatment models for brain damage in childhood and even in adults. Our aim is to show an electrophysiological evidence of brain plasticity regarding motor functions in early brain damaged patients.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed four patients with some extremity motor functions shifting to unusual brain areas who were diagnosed with childhood epilepsy and underwent epilepsy surgery. We analyzed their clinical and surgical data particularly including intraoperative neuromonitorization (IONM) results.
Results: Patients’ preoperative data showed some motor representation of extremities was located somewhere else than the expected brain areas due to perinatal damage. In first patient right hand presentation was shifted to the right hemisphere and in second patient right hand was represented on both hemispheres. In the remaining two patients, all the motor functions of epileptogenic hemisphere were shifted to the contralateral side. IONM proved the neuroplasticity of the patients with previously crossed motor functions and was in line with preoperative functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging data.
Conclusion: Brain plasticity can alter the motor reorganization of the healthy hemisphere by taking upon the functions of the pathological hemisphere.
With or without the parties' presence within the court-administrative procedure? Lessons from Poland.
Authors: Piątek Wojciech , Joński Kamil
Published: April 2024

Courts` disputes in contemporary jurisdictions are heard either with parties` participation – physical or remote - or in-camera, without any forms of orality. The article is aimed at examining the consequences of the case forum for a judgment before the Polish First Instance Administrative Courts (FIACs). We will explore if there are any connections between the parties` presence or absence during proceedings for the probability of the complainant’s winning, the time required to adjudicate the case in the first instance, and the probability of appeal to the Supreme Administrative Court (SAC). A basis for the research is a full-text database of the universe of first and second-instance judgments of Polish Administrative Courts (CBOSA) with all judgments issued by FIACs over 2016–2022, embracing a sample of nearly 250 thousand judgments. The research design is based on the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, which caused a shift from physical hearings to in-camera adjudication. The pandemic changed the preferences of parties towards in-camera deliberation and provoked legislative changes promoting in-camera adjudication. The results indicate that compared to hearings, in-camera adjudication shortened the time to adjudicate the case. This shift was beneficial for shortening the time to adjudicate the case. Although we found a statistically significant effect of in-camera adjudication on the probability of compliant winning in the first instance (negative) and appealing to SAC (negative) the size of the effects remains small.
A cost-saving, picture-assisted method for toric intraocular lens alignment versus manual self-leveling marking via RoboMarker
Authors: Kiessling David , Roessler Gernot F. , Widder Randolf A.
Published: April 2024

Purpose: To determine the accuracy of two axis-marking methods for toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, one picture-assisted approach based on scleral vessel vectors, and the other based on a self-leveling device for manual marking.
Methods: This retrospective single-center study involved 60 eyes of 51 participants, who underwent phacoemulsification with toric IOL implantation. In all eyes, preoperative markings were made in a seated position both manually via a self-leveling corneal marker (RoboMarker), and digitally on slit-lamp photographs, defining scleral vessels as landmarks, aiding to find the correct intraoperative orientation for an angular graduation instrument.
The axis of IOL alignment at the end of surgery was determined from high resolution, intraoperative footage from a microscope-integrated camera and the axis-marking error served as an outcome measurement for both marking techniques. The endpoint was the alignment of the lens at the end of surgery.
Results: The average axis-marking error was 2.5 ±1.9 degrees for picture-assisted marking, which was significantly less than that of the self-leveling corneal marker, being 5.4 ±4.4 degrees.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that scleral vessel vector marking leads to highly accurate toric IOL alignments, while being an inexpensive technique, as solely a slit-lamp camera is required for preoperative preparation.
Implicit identification is associated with self-injury severity among clinically diagnosed adolescents with NSSI
Authors: Liang Meng , Xu Huijing , Gao Qi , Jiang Qian , Yuan Aihua , Sun Jinhua , Liu Taosheng
Published: April 2024

Background
Compared to the general adolescent population, adolescents with a clinical diagnosis of NSSI tend to have more severe psychological problems and their self-injurious behaviors tend to be more severe. The positive feedback between implicit identification and self-harm may be more pronounced in this population than in the general population.
Methods
A total of 100 adolescent patients diagnosed with NSSI at the Department of Psychology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital and the Psychological Medicine Clinic, Children's Hospital, Fudan University were prospectively recruited into the study. The SI-IAT was completed by each patient to assess his or her implicit identification with NSSI. The relationship between implicit identification and the severity of self-injury among these patients was analyzed.
Results
The study found that patients in the severe NSSI group had significantly higher D-scores than those in the mild NSSI group (0.849 [0.274, 1.541] vs. 0.361 [-1.001, 0.872], p = 0.003). Logistic regression analysis revealed that D-score had an independent influence on the severity of NSSI (OR = 3.201, p = 0.004).
Conclusion
Implicit identification had an independent influence on the severity of self-injury in clinically diagnosed NSSI adolescent patients. Research on implicit identification about self-injury may be beneficial for the prevention and intervention of NSSI.
Scientific Analysis of the Gilt-Bronze Chariot Parasol Component of the Eastern Han Dynasty Excavated from the Dafenbao Cemetery, Pengshan, Sichuan, China
Authors: LIANG CHENXI , Li Wantao , Yu Xiaohong , Li Yuniu
Published: April 2024

Herein, the gilt-bronze Gaigongmao (chariot parasol component) were excavated in the Dafenbao cemetery, Pengshan county, Sichuan province, China. The function and the usage of the chariot parasol component have been inferred in this paper, and the virtual restoration pictures were diagramed. The samples were characterized by combining Ultra depth of field 3D microscope, ART-FTIR, SEM-EDS, element mapping, and wood species identification. The fibers around the Gaigongmao were detected as cotton threads, and the woods inside was bamboo, thus, the type of the parasol was presumed to be the San type. The gilding technology of the gilt-bronze was resulted for traditional mercury amalgam technology, and the traditional “Yaguang” technic can be observed in the SEM images. By comparing with the other data, the lead isotope date of the Gaigongmao was found falling within the range of the Yangtze River basin.
Designing biodegradable and antibacterial cellulose-based superhydrophobic packaging materials via large-scale self-assembly
Authors: Li Qiang , Jiang Xiaofan , Huang Mingjun , Lv Jiachen , Ling Zhe , Wang Songlin , Chen Fushan , Ji Zhe
Published: April 2024

Unbiodegradable petroleum-based packaging materials have posed a significant threat to the environment and human health, forcing urgent exploration of alternatives. Inspired by the charge-secreting layer of Sandcastle worm and the asymmetric wettability of lotus leaf, we successfully designed a dual biomimetic cellulose-based packaging material (CW@(CT)10) by an electrical charge-controlled layer-by-layer self-assembly of chitosan and TiO2 nanoparticles. The material achieved commendable mechanical properties and abrasion resistance, rendering it highly stable and durable. Benefit from the rough surface with nanostructures and low surface energy, the CW@(CT)10 showed a high water contact angle of 152.14°. The superhydrophobic surface reduced the bacterial adhesion, which integrated with the electropositivity of chitosan, endowing the materials with a 100% antibacterial ability to Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Fruit antimicrobial tests and degradation studies in the natural environment demonstrated that CW@(CT)10 kept fruit bacteria-free for 5 days and exhibited completely biodegradable within 100 days. Notably, this work introduced a facile strategy for scalable production of a sustainable, inexpensive, durable, and environmentally friendly materials, showcasing immense potential applications in food packaging.
Additive impact of diabetes and Helicobacter pylori infection on all-cause mortality, diabetic mortality, and cardiovascular mortality: A longitudinal nationwide population-based study
Authors: Zeng Di , Zeng Qingyue , Wang Shaofeng , Li Shuangqing
Published: April 2024

Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) and Helicobacter pylori infection (HPI) pose increasing public health challenges in aging societies, sharing common pathophysiological mechanisms, and linked to significant health risks. Our study examines their respective impacts on all-cause and cardiovascular mortalities in a comprehensive longitudinal population-based analysis.Methods The study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database conducted between 1999 and 2019, which included information on Diabetes mellitus status and Helicobacter pylori infection status. Mortality data were obtained from the same database mentioned above.Results Among the 2719 participants, 1362 (50.1%) were free of both diabetes mellitus (DM) and Helicobacter pylori infection (HP) (DM−/HP−), 140 (5.1%) had DM alone (DM+/HP−), 1011 (37.2%) had HP alone (DM−/HP+), and 206 (7.6%) had both DM and HP (DM+/HP+). Compared to the DM− /HP − group, the DM+ /HP − and DM+/HP + groups demonstrated increased all-cause mortality with adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.48 (95% [CI]: 1.17–1.88) and 1.56 (95% CI: 1.25–1.95), respectively. For diabetic mortality, DM+/HP- group and DM+/HP + group showed increased HR of 6.83 (95% CI: 1.36–34.36) and 9.17 (95% CI: 2.11–39.88), respectively. For cardiovascular mortality, the DM+/HP- group and DM+/HP + group exhibited increased HR of 1.73 (95% CI: 1.13–2.63) and 2.02 (95% CI: 1.37–2.97), respectively. The DM+/HP + cohort displayed the highest risk of overall mortality (p for trend = 0.003), diabetic mortality (p for trend < 0.0001), and cardiovascular mortality (p for trend < 0.0001).Conclusions The concurrent presence of DM and Helicobacter pylori infection significantly amplifies the risk of all-cause, cardiovascular, and diabetic mortality. Individuals with either condition may necessitate heightened management to prevent the onset of the other ailment and reduce mortality rates.
Histone deacetylase is dysregulated in mesenchymal stromal cells in Philadelphia-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms and functions as potential drug targets
Authors: Zhao Miaomiao , Wu Yaogong , He Wenjuan , Hu Min , Xue Mei , He Jing , Ge Renying , Zhang Min
Published: April 2024

Background:Previous studies imply that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) supports the progression of Philadelphia-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are believed to be promising anti-cancer targets, but its expression characteristics and biological functions in BM-MSCs of MPN patients are unclear.Methods:BM-MSCs were isolated from healthy donors and patients with polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF). Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) was used to stimulate BM-MSCs, and the expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP), HDAC1, HDAC2, HDAC3, HDAC8 were detected by qPCR and Western blot. Chidamide was selected as a representative HDAC inhibitor to treat BM-MSCs, and the activation of mTOR pathway was evaluated by Western blot, and the viability of BM-MSCs was examined by flow cytometry.Results:α-SMA and FAP were highly expressed in BM-MSCs of the patients with MPN. HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC8 were up-regulated in BM-MSCs of the patients with PMF. TGF-β1 induced up-regulation of α-SMA and FAP, and activation of mTOR signaling in BM-MSCs, while this effect could be reversed by chidamide. Chidamide could also induce the apoptosis of BM-MSCs.Conclusions:Dysregulation of HDACs was involved in pathogenesis of Philadelphia-negative MPN, and HDAC inhibitor such as chidamide may be potential candidate to treat this kind of diseases.
P53 immunohistochemistry is an ideal surrogate marker for TP53 mutation and a predictor of early metastasis in breast cancer: Real-world analysis
Authors: Lee Hyunwoo , Cho Yoon Ah , Kim Deok Geun , Son Jae Young , Cho Eun Yoon
Published: April 2024

Purpose: TP53 mutation in breast cancer (BC) is associated with chemoresistance, endocrine resistance, and late recurrence, resulting in poor prognosis. Nuclear accumulation of p53 in immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a surrogate marker of TP53 mutation. We analyzed the frequency, type, and distribution of TP53 mutations in BCs and assessed the efficacy of p53 IHC as a surrogate marker of TP53 mutation.
Methods: We collected 112 BC cases with the results of p53 IHC and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
Results: Overexpression of p53 IHC was observed in 36 (32.1%), complete absence in 19 (17.0%), aberrant cytoplasmic staining in 1 (0.9%), and wild-type in 56 (50.0%) patients. The concordance rate of TP53mutation and p53 IHC was 88.4% in all BCs, 89.9% in luminal BC, and 86.0% in triple-negative BC (TNBC). TNBC, abnormal p53 IHC pattern, p53 IHC overexpression, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) history, TP53mutation, and high pre-treatment ki-67 labeling index (≥ 50%) were significantly associated with worse distant metastasis free survival (DMFS) and overall survival (OS) (p < 0.05). Pre-NAC clinical stage III was associated with worse DMFS but not OS. Multivariate analysis results showed history of NAC, TNBC, or p53 IHC overexpression as independent predictors of worse DMFS. Abnormal p53 IHC pattern and NAC history were independent predictors of worse OS.
Conclusion: p53 IHC is a valid surrogate marker of TP53mutation of BC. Regardless of TP53 mutation, p53 IHC was associated with worse DMFS and OS and can be used as a biomarker to predict treatment resistance.
Lemierre's Syndrome: Atypical Presentation of the Internal Carotid Artery and Jugular Vein Fistula—CaseReport and Review
Authors: Kariuki Liza Wanjagi , Musabyemungu Jean Aime , kebedi Jemima , Shah Mitali , Hussein Fadhil , Ahmed Mohamednoor , Oburu Gilbert , Irungu Catherine , Kibaru Pauline , Ndiritu Simon , Omulo Tom
Published: April 2024

Background: Lemierre's syndrome (LS) is a rare yet potentially life-threatening complication of oropharyngeal infections that is typically characterized by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and is commonly associated with Fusobacterium necrophorum. Despite its recognition since 1936, LS can present atypically, as seen in our case where a patient exhibited a rare complication of an internal carotid artery and jugular vein fistula. This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges that can arise and underscores the importance of both a broader awareness of LS and the necessity for a multidisciplinary approach.
Case Presentation: A 42-year-old male who was initially diagnosed with a periodontal abscess and tonsillitis later developed internal jugular vein thrombophlebitis. This progressed to an internal carotid to internal jugular vein fistula, leading to septic thrombosis of the left internal carotid and jugular vein and eventually culminating in a carotid bulb aneurysm and subsequent cerebral infarct. The patient also experienced septic emboli, resulting in lung and mediastinal abscesses. Treatment involved intravenous antibiotics, anticoagulant therapy, and vascular repair, yielding a favorable outcome.
Conclusions: This case underscores the intricate nature of LS, showing its potential to progress to severe septic complications, including rare vascular issues and cerebral infarction. The diagnostic complexities and therapeutic interventions emphasize the critical importance of early identification, prompt diagnosis, and multidisciplinary management of LS to prevent life-threatening outcomes.
Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells promote tendon functional repair in a Collagenase-Induced Tendinopathy Model
Authors: Sun Xiangyi , Lin Zhiwei , Chen Jinyang , Wang Zhe , Zhu Guangqi , Long Ruchao , Yang Zhihua
Published: April 2024

Achilles tendon rupture is a common tendinopathy.We investigated the therapeutic effects of UC-MSCs on the inflammatory condition, and explored the preliminary mechanisms underlying their role in rabbit Achilles tendon repair.Tendon structure and functional recovery were evaluated through histological assessment, pathology, tissue hydroxyproline (Hyp) content measurement, and biomechanical testing.Then the inflammation and metabolic status of the extracellular matrix, along with potential mechanisms, were assessed through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemical staining.This study demonstrated the satisfactory ability of UC-MSCs transplantation to promote functional repair of tendon in a rabbit model of tendon diseases. The mechanisms involved include upregulation of Collagen I and Collagen III expression, inhibition of MMP-9, and enhancement of muscle fiber contraction through increased expression of troponin C (TnC), thereby improving the structural stability at the site of inflammation. We concluded that UC-MSCs hold promising potential as an enhancement strategy for MSC-based therapy in tendon diseases.
Ectoparasitas em morcegos (Mammalia: Chiroptera) e seus patógenos na região central de Rondônia, oeste da Amazônia brasileira
Authors: Júnior Leormando Fortunato Dornelas , Cunha Irineu Norberto , Jorge Felipe Rodrigues , Graciolli Gustavo , Bassini-Silva Ricardo , Jacinavicius Fernando Castro , Serpa Maria Carolina A. , Labruna Marcelo Bahia , Pessoa Felipe Arley Costa , Camargo Luís Marcelo Aranha
Published: April 2024

In Brazil, few people know that in the Tupi language bats are called ‘andirá’, ‘guandira’, or ‘guandiruçu’. The lack of knowledge about these animals is not restricted to these names but to the diversity of species, their biological complexity and their ecological importance. Bats (Chiroptera) are among the most diverse and geographically dispersed mammals. They are of great importance to the ecosystem, as pollinators, seed dispersers, and controllers of pests, and they are also hosts of several ectoparasites. Ectoparasites include a variety of arthropods, such as ticks (Ixodida), mites (Mesostigmata, Sarcoptiformes, and Trombidiformes), lice (Anoplura), fleas (Siphonaptera) and flies (Diptera), and their diet includes tissues and blood or other bodily fluids of bats. Bats are reservoirs of various disease-causing agents, many of them pathogenic to humans, such as bacteria of the genera Borrelia, Bartonella, Coxiella, Orientia and Rickettsia, as well as protozoa (among the most important, Leishmania spp. and Trypanosoma cruzi), viruses (the most important being rabies and Ebola) and fungi (Histoplasma and Crytococcus). This study was carried out in Monte Negro, Rondônia, and the occurrence of ectoparasites in bats was evaluated, as well as the bacteria of medical importance carried by these ectoparasites. Through a total of 69 nocturnal captures, 217 specimens of chiropterans representing 23 species and six families were sampled. A total of 592 specimens of ectoparasites were collected from the bats. Bacteria of the genus Bartonella were found in two species of bat flies (Trichobius joblingi and Strebla mirabilis). We report for the first time in Rondônia the argasid tick Ornithodoros hasei and its infection by a bacterium of the spotted fever group Candidatus Rickettsia wissemanii.
Grain quality attributes of an on-farm rice germplasm directly beneficial to the farming households
Authors: Jamjod Sansanee , Prom-u-thai Chanakan , Jaksomsak Pennapa , Lordkaew Sitichai , Rerkasem Benjavan
Published: April 2024

Local crop landraces remaining on-farm are readily accessible to those relying on them for their livelihoods, while also contributing to plant genetic resource conservation. Characterization of landraces commonly revolves around traits for deployment in breeding programmes, often overlooking their direct value to the farmers. Rice from the highlands of Northern Thailand, which lie within the centre of diversity of rice (Oryza sativa) and where the crop is predominantly planted with local varieties or landraces, was examined for the grain quality features with direct implications for the local population. Un-husked rice seed, provided by farmers belonging to 10 minority groups who grows rice largely for subsistence, mainly had large grain in contrast to the slender grain type common in the lowlands. The highland grown rice brings direct benefits to the local population with a higher dietary intake of Fe but not Zn. The highlands have also been identified as a rich source of pigmented rice germplasm and an environment favouring the production of premium quality purple rice with high anthocyanin content. On-farm experiments confirmed the effects of genotype and environment and G x E interaction on rice grain zinc and anthocyanin content. Information on the value of local crop germplasm directly beneficial to the local population should facilitate a more sustainable on-farm conservation efforts than rewards offered to the farmers from external funding.
Exploring palynological diversity of Some concrete Honey Bee Forage Plants in North-Eastern Himalayas, India
Authors: NEOG Prostuti , SINGH Sumit , PHUKAN Tridip , BHUYAN Mantu
Published: April 2024

Pollen taxonomy is required to compare the pollen in honey samples in melissopalynological studies. Pollen taxonomy, which involves classifying and identifying pollen grains, is crucial for various aspects of pollen study. The present study was undertaken from August 2023 to December 2023 in Jorhat district of Assam, India. The pollen morphology of 33 different flowering plant species belonging to 18 families have been carried out, and variations in shape, symmetry, exine structure sculpture, etc., have been found. In this study, 12.12% are tree species, 54.54% are herb species, and 33.33% are shrub species.
Long-term follow-up of a patient with Parkinson’s disease under nursing care after replacement of fixed implant-supported prostheses with an implant overdenture: a case report
Authors: Tokumoto Kana , Mino Takuya , Tosa Ikue , Omori Ko , Yamamoto Michiyo , Takaoka Kazuki , Maekawa Kenji , Kuboki Takuo , Kishimoto Hiromitsu
Published: April 2024

Background: Glioma is an exceedingly diverse brain tumor whose pathogenesis is complex and not yet fully understood. In recent years, as bioinformatics and molecular biology technologies have advanced, scholars have increasingly come to understand the tenuous connection and causal relationship between gene regulatory networks and the development and progression of glioma. However, the current state of research in this area remains ambiguous.
Materials and methods: This study analyzed protein data from the deCODE database and gene expression data of glioma patients from the TCGA and GEO databases to identify key genes associated with glioma. We then employed a range of techniques to investigate the mechanism by which crucial genes contribute to the development and occurrence of glioma. These methods were single-cell analysis, sensitivity analysis, heterogeneity testing, co-localization analysis, signaling pathway analysis, regulatory network analysis, and building an miRNA network. These investigations aimed to provide evidence for future clinical trials involving adjuvant chemotherapy drugs.
Results: A total of nine crucial genes (RAB 13, SCARA5, S100A12, DNAJB9, GSTZ 1, LY 9, ASPN, PLXDC1, and TREM 1) exhibited a strong correlation with the occurrence, and LY9, ASPN, PLXDC1, and TREM1 showed a reduced risk of glioma, while RAB 13, SCARA5, S100A12, DNAJB9, and GSTZ1 demonstrated significant regulatory functions in glioma. However, these analyses did not provide a comprehensive understanding of the mgliomas. The use of drug sensitivity analysis enabled the creation of personalized treatment plans, which were strongly linked to the development and appearance of gliomas. The utilization of drug sensitivity analysis enabled the implementation of personalized treatment plans.
Conclusion: By employing a range of bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques, this research has extensively investigated the mechanism of action of genes associated with glioma. This research has established a novel theoretical foundation for the treatment of glioma and conceived individualized and targeted therapies.
Manipulation of Polarization-Dependent Electromagnetic Wavefront Via Anisotropic Metasurfaces
Authors: Ye Shaohua , Hu Yangsen , Li Jin , Wu Song
Published: April 2024

Metasurfaces have garnered significant attention in recent years for their ability to manipulate electromagnetic (EM) wave propagation, owing to their high design flexibility, low profiles, and ease of fabrication. This study proposes the use of polarization-dependent anisotropic metasurfaces to manipulate the phase of orthogonal linearly polarized EM waves, enabling polarization multiplexing with distinct functionalities based on incident polarizations. Additionally, the proposed metasurfaces enable the generation of single pencil beams, multiple pencil beams, circularly and elliptically shaped radiation beams, offering versatile polarization manipulation capabilities. The radiation theory of planar array antennas was employed to predict the far-field patterns of the metasurfaces, demonstrating satisfactory agreement with simulated results and affirming the feasibility of the proposed method. These proposed metasurfaces pave the way for the development of multifunctional metadevices capable of advanced EM regulation through polarization and phase modulations in free space, with potential applications in wireless communication, imaging, and radar systems.
Bridging the Gap in the Early Warning System for Ciguatera Fish Poisoning Outbreak on Ambae Island, Vanuatu
Authors: Rarai Allan , Parsons Meg , Weber Eberhard , Ruben John
Published: April 2024

Indigenous and traditional knowledge sources for remote communities have significant implications for policymakers and community leaders in Vanuatu. Our study is based on three (3) area councils on Ambae Island in Vanuatu: East, North, and West Area councils. This study investigated the use of local indicators to predict the presence of ciguatera fish poisoning and its integration with science to enhance community responses to health risks. We employ a mixed-methods approach to collect data from these area councils and government agencies, particularly the Department of Health, the Department of Fisheries, and the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department. This paper identifies three significant areas: indigenous and traditional knowledge indicators for Ciguatera, a potential platform for the integration of indigenous and traditional knowledge with science, and perspectives from community and government agencies on the integrated early warning platform. This study underscores the pressing need for government agencies to collaborate with local communities to evaluate and develop the best practices that enable the integration of indigenous and traditional knowledge with scientific information to improve community responses to health risk management in Vanuatu.
Robust Control and CAPMs under a Quadratic Security Market Model
Authors: Batbold Bolorsuvd , Kikuchi Kentaro , Kusuda Koji
Published: April 2024

This study assumes homothetic robust Epstein-Zin utility and analyzes the consumption-investment problem and CAPMs under a quadratic security market model in which interest rates, the market price of risk, the variances and covariances of asset returns, and inflation rates are stochastic. First, we demonstrate that homothetic robust Epstein-Zin utility is interpreted as homothetic stochastic differential utility. Then, we show that robust investors determine the ''worst-case probability'' and the optimal consumption-investment. We clarify the theoretical structures of robust control. We derive a robust version of the two-factor CAPM and show that the CAPM can contribute to solving both the equity premium puzzle and the risk-free rate puzzle. Furthermore, we derive a testable robust ICAPM and demonstrate that the testable ICAPM is consistent with our quadratic security market model.
JEL classification C61, D81, G11, G12
AN EVALUATION OF PLANT GROWTH REGULATORS ON GROWTH OF HERBACEOUS PERENNIALS
Authors: Thomas Paul A. , Latimer Joyce G.
Published: April 2024

Growing perennials from plugs in warm greenhouses for early spring sale sometimes yields poor quality plants that possess elongated stems and leaf petioles. The objective of this study was to establish concentration ranges necessary to control the subsequent growth of pre-cooled plugs. Plugs of Iberis, Lobelia, and Aquilegia, and corms of Liatris were established in 10-cm pots. Five plant growth regulators, Bonzi (paclobutrazol), Royal Slo-Gro (maleic hydrazide). Cutless (flurprimidol), Atrimmec (dikegulac sodium) and B-Nine (daminozide), were applied at five rates at 5 wk after transplant. Iberis stem length was reduced linearly with increasing concentration concentration by Royal Slo-Gro (0-1200 ppm), and Atrimmec (0-800 ppm). Atrimmec increased branching of Iberis. Growth of Lobelia treated with Royal Slo-Gro was reduced linearly with increasing concentration of Royal Slo-Gro (0-1200 ppm) or B-Nine (0-10,000 ppm). Bonzi and Cutless reduced Lobelia stem growth linearly with increasing concentration (0-40 ppm). Liatris stem growth was reduced linearly with increasing concentration of Royal Slo-Gro (0 to 1200 ppm). B-Nine, Bonzi and Cutless were also effective on Lobelia: however, a refinement of the concentration ranges used might provide better Lobelia growth management.
PRESTORAGE HEAT TREATMENTS FOR SCALD CONTROL ON APPLES
Authors: Mitcham E.J. , Wu Y.M.
Published: April 2024

To explore alternatives to diphenylamine for control of scald on Granny Smith apples. Freshly harvested, untreated apples were heated before storage. Treatments included hot air at 25C with 10 ppm ethylene for 6 days, 38C hot air for 4 days with and without 10 ppm ethylene, and 5 min dips in hot water at 46C and 50C. Loss of firmness (3 Newtons) immediately after treatment occurred only in apples treated in 38C air for 4 days with and without ethylene. Green color was maintained in all treatments except 38C with ethylene. After heat treatment, fruit were stored at 0.5C in air or CA (1.5% O2, 1% CO2). Fruit were evaluated for color, firmness, soluble solids and titratable acidity at 3 months. Fruit treated at 38C for 4 days with or without ethylene were 7 to 10 Newtons more firm than control fruit and had lower titratable acidity. The remaining treatments were not different from control fruit. All prestorage heat treatments resulted in less scald compared to control fruit. Treatments in air at 38C gave the best scald control with 38C plus ethylene providing slightly better control. The scald which occurred in fruit treated with hot water at 46 or 50C was less than that of control fruit but still significantly high. However, the scald was very faint, and in 50C treated apples may not have been typical scald but a faint bronzing from the high temperature treatment. There was very little scald in any of the CA stored fruit. All prestorage heat treatments resulted in a reduction of bitter pit, especially the two hot water treatments. Control fruit had 31% bitter pit while there was 9% in 46C hot water fruit and 7% in 50C hot water fruit. CA storage reduced bitter pit in control fruit to 17%. Additional fruit will be evaluated after 6 months storage.
PARTITIONING OF PHOTOASSIMILATES IN AVOCADO (Persea americana Mill) DURING FLOWERING AND FRUIT SET
Authors: Davenport Thomas L. , Finazzo Susan F. , Schaffer Bruce
Published: April 2024

The distribution of recent photoassimilates was examined in avocado (Persea americana Mill.) to assess competition for photoassimilates between developing inflorescences, fruitlets and vegetative shoots. Experiments were conducted before and during flowering, fruit set, and the transition from sink to source of developing vegetative shoots. Mature leaves, located proximal to developing reproductive organs, and developing leaves located distal to those organs were exposed to a one-hour pulse of 14CO2. Translocation of radiolabeled assimilates was monitored over time and among organs. Overall distribution of assimilates was dependent on dry mass of tissue regardless of organ type. Flowers and fruitlets did not demonstrate greater sink strength than non-autotrophic leaves. Organs receiving assimilates were in phyllotactic alignment with source leaves. Photoassimilates were never limiting although flower and fruitlet abscission occurred during and after this competitive period. Our results indicate that carbohydrate availability is sufficient to support the growth of both developing fruitlets and leaves during early stages o reproductive development, and it did not limit fruitlet growth nor stimulate fruitlet abscission.
RESPONSE OF CROP PHOTOSYNTHESIS TO CO2, TEMPERATURE, AND LIGHT: EXPERIMENTATION AND MODELING
Authors: Reddy V. R. , Pachepsky L. B. , Acock B.
Published: April 2024

Increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration [CO2] is expected to result in a CO2 level of 600 μL L-1 sometime during the 21st century, which will likely affect global climate primarily by increasing air temperature 3-6°C. Several studies were conducted on the interactive effects of [CO2] and temperature in various combinations on cotton photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, water use efficiency, and dry matter accumulation. The data were used to develop and test various types of photosynthesis models. The dependence of canopy light utilization efficiency and canopy conductivity for CO2 transfer on temperature and CO2 concentration was determined. The complete model of CO2, exchange for cotton as a function of environmental factors contains 7 parameters. Methods of validation, parameterization, and comparison of photosynthetic models are described.
RFLP ANALYSIS OF DIVERSITY AMONG OPEN-POLLINATED POPULATIONS OF ONION (ALLIUM CEPA L.)
Authors: Bark Ockyung H. , Havey Michael J.
Published: April 2024

Restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) in the nuclear genome were used to assess genetic diversity among cultivated open-pollinated populations (OPs) of bulb onion (Allium cepa L.). Twenty OPs of contrasting day-length responses [long (LD) and short (SD) day] were examined with 104 random cDNA probes and two to four restriction enzymes. Sixty-one probes detected polymorphisms among the OPs for at least one restriction enzyme. Parsimony and cluster analyses were completed and no distinct grouping was observed between LD and SD OPs. Parsimony analysis generated a consensus tree that grouped all but two LD OPs and their relationships to the SD OPs were not resolved. Cluster analysis grouped all but three LD OPs and the distances from that group to the others were not greater than those among LD or SD OPs. These results suggest that LD and SD onions do not represent distinct germplasm sources and LD OPs possess a more narrow genetic background. The paucity of unique fragments among OPs indicates that phenotypic variation, e.g., day-length response or bulb color or shape, does not reflect diverse sources of germplasm.
APPLE BUD DEVELOPMENT AS INFLUENCED BY ROOTSTOCK
Authors: Hirst Peter M. , Ferree David C.
Published: April 2024

Apple flower formation was studied on mature `Starkspur Supreme Delicious' apple trees growing on 5 rootstocks: B.9, M.26 EMLA, M.7 EMLA, P.18, and seedling. In 1991 and 1992 buds were sampled from the previous seasons growth and dissected. In 1991 10-20% of the buds from trees on M.26 EMLA, P. 18 and seedling rootstocks formed flowers whereas flowers were evident in about 50% of the buds from B.9 and M.7 EMLA trees. In 1992 however, over 90% of buds from trees on all rootstocks formed flowers. Despite very different environmental conditions and degree of flower formation, flower differentiation occurred between 80-110 days after full bloom in both years and among all rootstocks. The critical number of nodes present in buds prior to the appearance of flowers was 18-19 and was not influenced by rootstock. Increases in node number over the course of a season was primarily due to increases in the number of bracts present in the bud. In 1991 (a season characterized by high temperatures and low rainfall) buds from trees growing on B.9 and M.7 EMLA rootstocks exhibited a higher final node number and a greater degree of flower initiation than buds from other trees, but no differences were observed during the more favorable conditions in 1992.
THE SFASU ARBORETUM - THE FIRST SEVEN YEARS
Authors: Hill Dana A. , Creech D.L.
Published: April 2024

The ten acre SFASU arboretum borders LaNana creek, the horticulture facilities and Agriculture building. SFASU, known as the “university among the pines,” is the only university in Texas with a functional arboretum. The historical perspective of the arboretum is an interesting study of development, one that underlines the importance of prudent use of resources and limited funds in horticulture planning. The arboretum's mission is to promote the conservation, selection and use of the native plants of Texas and to encourage diversity in the urban landscape philosophy of the region. The arboretum serves as an outdoor living laboratory and is home to many uncommon, unusual, and difficult-to-find species and cultivars, many never tested in Texas until recently. Arboretum growth has been facilitated by a theme garden by theme garden approach. Thirteen gardens are in place with several in various stages of construction. Development has been facilitated through a “Friends of the SFASU Arboretum”, a few benevolent gifts and grants, volunteers and the enthusiasm of SFASU horticulture students.
THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS.
Authors: McGrew J. , Hanchek A.M.
Published: April 2024

People often use flowers to communicate messages, yet little published work sheds light on the variables related to choice of flowers and intended messages. Pilot work using the semantic differentials found relationships between desired message and flower color/mass. In a full study, approximately 600 adults were questioned with two surveys that asked respondents to indicate choices and rating (Likert scale) of three or four arrangements of the same flower type that varied only on the dimension of color. Based on initial selection, they then answered a series of questions measuring emotional characteristics conveyed by the flowers and which arrangements they would choose to convey different emotional messages. Different flower colors implied significantly different degrees of masculinity or femininity, formality, novelty, and perceived value. Blue-based flowers were the least attractive, would not be frequently used to convey emotional messages, and when selected, would primarily convey a romantic message. Results were not gender-dependent. This research has implications for flower breeders, growers, and retailers.