bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vegetative propagation of Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. by rhizome cuttings: a step towards conservation and cultivation approach
Authors: Magray Junaid A. , Wani Bilal A. , Javid Hanan , Islam Tajamul , Ganie Aijaz H. , Qadir Roof Ul , Nawchoo Irshad A.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. is a highly valuable multipurpose herb native to the Himalayan region. Unsustainable harvesting of this species due to its diverse uses has resulted in a rapid decline in its population across natural habitats, thereby necessitating its propagation and conservation. To overcome this challenge, the potential of P. acinosa rhizomes for ex situ regeneration was evaluated.

Methods

The current study aims to develop a standard propagation protocol for P. acinosa. Rhizome cuttings derived by splitting whole rhizomes were used to study the effect of various hormones and soil compositions on their sprouting and growth performance.

Results

Soil compositions SC10 and SC5 consisting of soil, sand, pebbles, and vermicompost (1:1:1:1) and soil, sand, and vermicompost (1:1:1), respectively, were the most suitable compositions for the optimum growth of this species. The rhizome segments treated with GA3 (150ppm) induced the highest sprouting percentage (91.67%), with a minimum sprouting time of 23.25 days. The maximum root length (9.25 cm), shoot length (16.5 cm), and leaf number (11.25) were recorded for GA3 (150ppm) treated rhizome cuttings.

Conclutions

Overall, the results of the present study helped in establishing a cost-effective, rapid, efficient, and simple mass propagation method for the target species. The results of this study will serve as a guide for the large-scale cultivation, effective conservation, and sustainable utilization of this economically valuable medicinal herb.
Associations between estimated glucose disposal rate and arterial stiffness and mortality among US adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Song Junting , Ma Ruicong , Yin Lin
Published: May 2024

Background

The estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), an effective indicator of insulin resistance, has been related to acute coronary syndrome, ischemic stroke and heart failure. This study aims to explore the relationship between eGDR and arterial stiffness, all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

Participants with NAFLD were chosen from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2018. The main outcomes are arterial stiffness (represented by estimated pulse wave velocity, ePWV), all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Multiple cox regression models, restricted cubic spline, sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis were carried out to investigate the correlation between the insulin resistance indicators and mortality and arterial stiffness. Furthermore, receiver operating characteristic curves were used to compare the predictive value of the eGDR with the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Results

In this study, a total of 4,861 participants were included for analysis. After adjusting confounding factors in the multivariate weighted cox regression model, the eGDR was inversely associated with the all-cause mortality (Q4 vs. Q1, HR =0.65 (0.48-0.89, P=0.01) and cardiovascular mortality (Q4 vs. Q1, HR =0.35 (0.19-0.65, P<0.001). Compared with TyG index and HOMA-IR, the eGDR shows excellent predictive value in all-cause mortality (0.588 vs. 0.550 vs. 0.513, P < 0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (0.625 vs. 0.553 vs. 0.537, P < 0.001). In addition, we found a significant negative correlation between eGDR and arterial stiffness (β=-0.13(-0.14–0.11, P< 0.001). However, TyG index and HOMA-IR showed no significant correlation to arterial stiffness.

Conclusions

Low eGDR (an indicator of insulin resistance) levels are related to an increased risk of arterial stiffness and mortality in NAFLD patients in the United States.
Development of an anoikis-related gene signature and prognostic model for predicting the tumor microenvironment and response to immunotherapy in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Chuanchang , Weng Junyong , Yang Le , Gong Hangjun , Liu Zhaolong
Published: May 2024

The effect of anoikis-related genes (ARGs) on clinicopathological characteristics and tumor microenvironment remains unclear. We comprehensively analyzed anoikis-associated gene signatures of 1057 colorectal cancer (CRC) samples based on 18 ARGs. Anoikis-related molecular subtypes and gene features were identified through consensus clustering analysis. The biological functions and immune cell infiltration were assessed using the GSVA and ssGSEA algorithms. Prognostic risk score was constructed using multivariate Cox regression analysis. The immunological features of high-risk and low-risk groups were compared. Finally, DAPK2-overexpressing plasmid was transfected to measure its effect on tumor proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. We identified 18 prognostic ARGs. Three different subtypes of anoikis were identified and demonstrated to be linked to distinct biological processes and prognosis. Then, a risk score model was constructed and identified as an independent prognostic factor. Compared to the high-risk group, patients in the low-risk group exhibited longer survival, higher enrichment of checkpoint function, increased expression of CTLA4 and PD-L1, higher IPS scores, and a higher proportion of MSI-H. The results of RT-PCR indicated that the expression of DAPK2 mRNA was significantly downregulated in CRC tissues compared to normal tissues. Increased DAPK2 expression significantly suppressed cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, and inhibited migration and invasion. The nude mice xenograft tumor model confirmed that high expression of DAPK2 inhibited tumor growth. Collectively, we discovered an innovative anoikis-related gene signature associated with prognosis and TME. Besides, our study indicated that DAPK2 can serve as a promising therapeutic target for inhibiting the growth and metastasis of CRC.
The alterations of oral, airway and intestine microbiota in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kou Ziwei , Liu Kai , Qiao Zhengtong , Wang Yaoyao , Li Yanmiao , Li Yinan , Yu Xinjuan , Han Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

Increasing evidence indicates the microbial ecology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is intricately associated with the disease’s status and severity, and distinct microbial ecological variations exist between COPD and healthy control (HC). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize microbial diversity indices and taxa relative abundance of oral, airway, and intestine microbiota of different stages of COPD and HC to make comparisons.

Methods

A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases to identify relevant English articles on the oral, airway, and intestine microbiota in COPD published between 2003 and 8 May 2023. Information on microbial diversity indices and taxa relative abundance of oral, airway, and intestine microbiota was collected for comparison between different stages of COPD and HC.

Results

A total of 20 studies were included in this review, involving a total of 337 HC participants, 511 COPD patients, and 154 AECOPD patients. We observed that no significant differences in alpha diversity between the participant groups, but beta diversity was significantly different in half of the included studies. Compared to HC, Prevotella, Streptococcus, Actinomyces, and Veillonella of oral microbiota in SCOPD were reduced at the genus level. Most studies supported that Haemophilus, Lactobacillus, and Pseudomonas were increased, but Veillonella, Prevotella, Actinomyces, Porphyromonas, and Atopobium were decreased at the genus level in the airway microbiota of SCOPD. However, the abundance of Haemophilus, Lactobacillus and Pseudomonas genera exhibited an increase, whereas Actinomyces and Porphyromonas showed a decrease in the airway microbiota of AECOPD compared to HC. And Lachnospira of intestine microbiota in SCOPD was reduced at the genus level.

Conclusion

The majority of published research findings supported that COPD exhibited decreased alpha diversity compared to HC. However, our meta-analysis does not confirm it. In order to further investigate the characteristics and mechanisms of microbiome in the oral-airway- intestine axis of COPD patients, larger-scale and more rigorous studies are needed.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/), identifier CRD42023418726.
Industrial mining trial for polymetallic nodules in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone indicates complex and variable disturbances of meiofaunal communities
Authors: Lefaible Nene , Macheriotou Lara , Pape Ellen , Molari Massimiliano , Haeckel Matthias , Zeppilli Daniela , Vanreusel Ann
Published: May 2024

Following several small-scale benthic disturbance experiments, an industrial polymetallic nodule collector trial was conducted by the company Global Sea mineral Resources (GSR) in their exploration contract area in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone using the pre-prototype vehicle Patania II (PATII). In this study, meiofaunal (i.e., nematode abundance, ASV diversity and genus composition) and environmental (i.e., grain size, total organic carbon/total nitrogen and pigment) properties are compared between disturbance categories (i.e., Pre-impact, Collector Impact and Plume Impact). One week after the trial, proxies for food availability within the Collector Impact sediments were altered with lower total organic carbon (TOC) and pigment (i.e., CPE: sum of Chlorophyll a and phaeopigments) values. Albeit not significant, the observed decrease of nematode abundance and ASV diversity, further indicate the consequences of the removal of the ecologically important surface sediment layer within the PATII tracks. Next to sediment removal, exposed sediments were modified in different ways (e.g., central strips, parallel caterpillar imprints with alternating bands of depressions/ripples and interface patches) and were also subject to heavy collector-induced sediment blanketing. We propose that these cumulative impacts have led to intricate seabed modifications with various levels of disturbance intensity which resulted in the high meiofaunal variability observed. Adjacent nodule-rich areas (i.e., Plume Impact) received considerable levels of sediment deposition (2-3 cm) and were defined by significantly lower food sources (CPE, TOC, carbon to nitrogen ratio) and an observation of meiofaunal enrichment (i.e., higher average nematode abundance and ASV diversity; although statistically non-significant), but mechanisms behind these ecological changes (e.g., suspended material-surface fluxes, passive dispersal of fauna in the plume vs. active upward migration and “viability” of redeposited fauna) remain unresolved. We conclude that complex benthic pressure-response relationships associated with the PATII trial, combined with the high degree of natural spatial and temporal variability in abyssal meiofaunal communities and sedimentary parameters, complicates the quantitative assessment of deep-sea mining associated disturbances.
Spatial distribution and environmental/biological co-regulation mechanism of dimethyl sulfur compounds in the eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: Peng Liying , Fan Chenjuan , Guo Yu , Ding Changling , Wang Xingzhou , Zhang Guicheng , Sun Jun
Published: May 2024

Dimethyl sulfur compounds including dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), dimethyl sulfide (DMS), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), play a crucial part in global sulfur cycling. The eastern Indian Ocean (EIO), characterized by its remarkable diversity of biomes and climate dynamics, is integral to global climate regulation. However, the regulation mechanism of DMS (P, O) in the EIO remains to be elucidated in detail. This paper presented a field survey aimed at investigating the spatial distribution of DMS (P, O) and their relationships with environmental and biological factors in the EIO. The surface concentrations of DMS, DMSPt, and DMSOt varied from 0.07 to 7.37 nmol/L, 0.14 to 9.17 nmol/L, and 0.15 to 3.32 nmol/L, respectively, and their distributions are attributed to high Chl-a concentration near Sri Lanka and the influence of ocean currents (Wyrtki jets, Bay of Bengal runoff). Higher concentrations of DMS (P) and DMSOt were predominantly observed in water columns shallower than 75m and deeper than 75m deep, respectively. The monthly DMS fluxes in the study area peaked in August. Temperature and Dissolved Silica Index (DSI) were the key environmental determinants for DMS distribution, while nitrate (NO3-) was the primary factor for both DMSPt and DMSOt. In terms of biological factors, Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus were significant contributors to DMS (P, O) dynamics. Synechococcus was the dominant influence on the DMS source and DMSPt sink, whereas Prochlorococcus primarily consumed DMSOt. Furthermore, the structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed the relationship between DMS, DMSPt, DMSOt, and the key environmental/biological factors, as well as among them, and together they formed a co-regulatory network in the EIO. This contributes significantly to the advancement of global ecosystem models for DMS (P, O).
The application of Global Trigger Tool in monitoring antineoplastic adverse drug events: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yang , Liu Xianjun , Xia Binbin , Chen Jing , Sun Wenfang , Liu Fang , Cheng Hua
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to establish an antineoplastic drugs trigger tool based on Global Trigger Tool (GTT), to examine the performance by detecting adverse drug events (ADEs) in patients with cancer in a Chinese hospital (a retrospective review), and to investigate the factors associating with the occurrence of antineoplastic ADEs.

Methods

Based on the triggers recommended by the GTT and those used in domestic and foreign studies and taking into account the scope of biochemical indexes in our hospital, some of them were adjusted. A total of 37 triggers were finally developed. Five hundred medical records of oncology patients discharged in our hospital from 1 June 2020 to 31 May 2021 were randomly selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. These records were reviewed retrospectively by antineoplastic drugs trigger tool. The sensitivity and specificity of the triggers were analyzed, as well as the characteristics and risk factors for the occurrence of ADEs.

Results

Thirty-three of the 37 triggers had positive trigger, and the sensitivity rate was 91.8% (459/500). For the specificity, the positive predictive value of overall ADEs was 46.0% (715/1556), the detection rate of ADEs was 63.0% (315/500), the rate of ADEs per 100 admissions was 136.0 (95% CI, 124.1–147.9), and the rate of ADEs per 1,000 patient days was 208.33 (95% CI, 201.2–215.5). The top three antineoplastic drugs related to ADEs were antimetabolic drugs (29.1%), plant sources and derivatives (27.1%), and metal platinum drugs (26.3%). The hematologic system was most frequently involved (507 cases, 74.6%), followed by gastrointestinal system (89 cases, 13.1%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the number of combined drugs (OR = 1.14; 95% CI, 1.07–1.22; P < 0.001) and the previous history of adverse drug reaction (ADR) (OR = 0.38; 95% CI, 0.23–0.60; P < 0.001) were the risk factors for ADEs. The length of hospital stay (OR = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.14–1.12; P < 0.05) and the previous history of ADR (OR = 2.18; 95% CI, 1.07–4.45; P < 0.05) were the risk factors for serious adverse drug events (SAE).

Conclusion

The established trigger tool could be used to monitor antineoplastic drugs adverse events in patients with tumor effectively but still needs to be optimized. This study may provide some references for further research in order to improve the rationality and safety of antineoplastic medications.
Radiomics analysis for prediction of lymph node metastasis after neoadjuvant chemotherapy based on pretreatment MRI in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Liu Jinjin , Dong Linxiao , Zhang Xiaoxian , Wu Qingxia , Yang Zihan , Zhang Yuejie , Xu Chunmiao , Wu Qingxia , Wang Meiyun
Published: May 2024

Background

This study aims to develop and validate a pretreatment MRI-based radiomics model to predict lymph node metastasis (LNM) following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC).

Methods

Patients with LACC who underwent NACT from two centers between 2013 and 2022 were enrolled retrospectively. Based on the lymph node (LN) status determined in the pathology reports after radical hysterectomy, patients were categorized as LN positive or negative. The patients from center 1 were assigned as the training set while those from center 2 formed the validation set. Radiomics features were extracted from pretreatment sagittal T2-weighted imaging (Sag-T2WI), axial diffusion-weighted imaging (Ax-DWI), and the delayed phase of dynamic contrast-enhanced sagittal T1-weighted imaging (Sag-T1C) for each patient. The K-best and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) methods were employed to reduce dimensionality, and the radiomics features strongly associated with LNM were selected and used to construct three single-sequence models. Furthermore, clinical variables were incorporated through multivariate regression analysis and fused with the selected radiomics features to construct the clinical-radiomics combined model. The diagnostic performance of the models was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The clinical utility of the models was evaluated by the area under the ROC curve (AUC) and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

A total of 282 patients were included, comprising 171 patients in the training set, and 111 patients in the validation set. Compared to the Sag-T2WI model (AUC, 95%CI, training set, 0.797, 0.722-0.782; validation set, 0.648, 0.521-0.776) and the Sag-T1C model (AUC, 95%CI, training set, 0.802, 0.723-0.882; validation set, 0.630, 0.505-0.756), the Ax-DWI model exhibited the highest diagnostic performance with AUCs of 0.855 (95%CI, 0.791-0.919) in training set, and 0.753 (95%CI, 0.638-0.867) in validation set, respectively. The combined model, integrating selected features from three sequences and FIGO stage, surpassed predictive ability compared to the single-sequence models, with AUC of 0.889 (95%CI, 0.833-0.945) and 0.859 (95%CI, 0.781-0.936) in the training and validation sets, respectively.

Conclusions

The pretreatment MRI-based radiomics model, integrating radiomics features from three sequences and clinical variables, exhibited superior performance in predicting LNM following NACT in patients with LACC.
Association between immune-related adverse events and prognosis in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Shixin , Nie He , Wei Chaoyu , Jin Cailong , Wang Lunqing
Published: May 2024

Background

The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) provides a variety of options for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). After the application of ICIs, the immune system of patients was highly activated, and immune-related adverse events (irAEs) could occur in some organ systems, and irAEs seemed to be associated with the survival prognosis of patients. Therefore, we evaluated the association between survival outcomes and irAEs in NSCLC patients and conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

We conducted systematic reviews of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases until December 2021. The forest map was constructed by combining the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). I2 estimated the heterogeneity between studies. A meta-analysis was performed using R 4.2.1 software.

Results

Eighteen studies included 4808 patients with advanced NSCLC. In pooled analysis, the occurrence of irAEs was found to be a favorable factor for improved prognosis (PFS: HR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.41-0.55, P <0.01; OS: HR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.42-0.52, P <0.01). In subgroup analyses, cutaneous irAE, gastrointestinal irAE, endocrine irAE and grade ≥3 irAEs were associated with improvements in PFS and OS, but pulmonary and hepatic irAEs were not.

Conclusion

Existing evidence suggests that the occurrence of irAEs may be a prognostic biomarker for advanced NSCLC. However, further research is needed to explore the prospect of irAEs as a prognostic biomarker in patients undergoing immunotherapy.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPEROFILES/405333_STRATEGY_20240502.pdf, identifier CRD42023405333.
Mechanism and treatment of secondary glaucoma after corneal transplantation: a review
Authors: Lin Yumeng , Gou Qiaoyin , Yu Ping , Wu Zhengfang , Zeng Liuzhi , Chen Haoran
Published: May 2024

Corneal transplantation is a common treatment for corneal diseases. Secondary glaucoma after corneal transplantation is the second leading cause of failure of keratoplasty. This article reviews the mechanism and treatment of secondary glaucoma after corneal transplantation.
Dissection of genetic architecture of nine hazardous component traits of mainstream smoke in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)
Authors: Xu Manling , Tong Zhijun , Jin Chengting , Zhang Qixin , Lin Feng , Fang Dunhuang , Chen Xuejun , Zhu Tianneng , Lou Xiangyang , Xiao Bingguang , Xu Haiming
Published: May 2024

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) use is the leading cause of preventable death, due to deleterious chemical components and smoke from tobacco products, and therefore reducing harmful chemical components in tobacco is one of the crucial tobacco breeding targets. However, due to complexity of tobacco smoke and unavailability of high-density genetic maps, the genetic architecture of representative hazardous smoke has not been fully dissected. The present study aimed to explore the genetic architecture of nine hazardous component traits of mainstream smoke through QTL mapping using 271 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from K326 and Y3 in multiple environments. The analysis of genotype and genotype by environment interaction (GE) revealed substantially greater heritability over 95% contributed mostly by GE interaction effects. We also observed strong genetic correlations among most studied hazardous smoke traits, with the highest correlation coefficient of 0.84 between carbon monoxide and crotonaldehyde. Based on a published high-density genetic map, a total of 19 novel QTLs were detected for eight traits using a full QTL model, of which 17 QTLs showed significant additive effects, six showed significant additive-by-environment interaction effects, and one pair showed significant epistasis-by-environment interaction effect. Bioinformatics analysis of sequence in QTL region predicted six genes as candidates for four traits, of which Nt21g04598.1, Nt21g04600.1, and Nt21g04601.1 had pleiotropic effects on PHE and TAR.
Single-cell transcriptome profiling reveals the spatiotemporal distribution of triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis and transposable element activity in Gynostemma pentaphyllum shoot apexes and leaves
Authors: Li Rucan , Du Ke , Zhang Chuyi , Shen Xiaofeng , Yun Lingling , Wang Shu , Li Ziqin , Sun Zhiying , Wei Jianhe , Li Ying , Guo Baolin , Sun Chao
Published: May 2024

Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Thunb.) Makino is an important producer of dammarene-type triterpenoid saponins. These saponins (gypenosides) exhibit diverse pharmacological benefits such as anticancer, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory effects, and have major potential in the pharmaceutical and health care industries. Here, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to profile the transcriptomes of more than 50,000 cells derived from G. pentaphyllum shoot apexes and leaves. Following cell clustering and annotation, we identified five major cell types in shoot apexes and four in leaves. Each cell type displayed substantial transcriptomic heterogeneity both within and between tissues. Examining gene expression patterns across various cell types revealed that gypenoside biosynthesis predominantly occurred in mesophyll cells, with heightened activity observed in shoot apexes compared to leaves. Furthermore, we explored the impact of transposable elements (TEs) on G. pentaphyllum transcriptomic landscapes. Our findings the highlighted the unbalanced expression of certain TE families across different cell types in shoot apexes and leaves, marking the first investigation of TE expression at the single-cell level in plants. Additionally, we observed dynamic expression of genes involved in gypenoside biosynthesis and specific TE families during epidermal and vascular cell development. The involvement of TE expression in regulating cell differentiation and gypenoside biosynthesis warrant further exploration. Overall, this study not only provides new insights into the spatiotemporal organization of gypenoside biosynthesis and TE activity in G. pentaphyllum shoot apexes and leaves but also offers valuable cellular and genetic resources for a deeper understanding of developmental and physiological processes at single-cell resolution in this species.
Mapping QTLs for adult-plant resistance to powdery mildew and stripe rust using a recombinant inbred line population derived from cross Qingxinmai × 041133
Authors: Li Yahui , Hu Jinghuang , Lin Huailong , Qiu Dan , Qu Yunfeng , Du Jiuyuan , Hou Lu , Ma Lin , Wu Qiuhong , Liu Zhiyong , Zhou Yijun , Li Hongjie
Published: May 2024

A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from wheat landrace Qingxinmai and breeding line 041133 exhibited segregation in resistance to powdery mildew and stripe rust in five and three field tests, respectively. A 16K genotyping by target sequencing (GBTS) single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array-based genetic linkage map was used to dissect the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for disease resistance. Four and seven QTLs were identified for adult-plant resistance (APR) against powdery mildew and stripe rust. QPm.caas-1B and QPm.caas-5A on chromosomes 1B and 5A were responsible for the APR against powdery mildew in line 041133. QYr.caas-1B, QYr.caas-3B, QYr.caas-4B, QYr.caas-6B.1, QYr.caas-6B.2, and QYr.caas-7B detected on the five B-genome chromosomes of line 041133 conferred its APR to stripe rust. QPm.caas-1B and QYr.caas.1B were co-localized with the pleiotropic locus Lr46/Yr29/Sr58/Pm39/Ltn2. A Kompetitive Allele Specific Polymorphic (KASP) marker KASP_1B_668028290 was developed to trace QPm/Yr.caas.1B. Four lines pyramiding six major disease resistance loci, PmQ, Yr041133, QPm/Yr.caas-1B, QPm.caas-2B.1, QYr.caas-3B, and QPm.caas-6B, were developed. They displayed effective resistance against both powdery mildew and stripe rust at the seedling and adult-plant stages.
Obstetric Outcomes of Eritrean Immigrants in Switzerland: A Comparative Study
Authors: Erhardt Rahel M. , Jafflin Kristen , Zepro Nejimu , Abongomera Charles , Chernet Afona , Paris Daniel Henry , Merten Sonja
Published: May 2024

Objectives: This study aims to compare obstetric outcomes between Eritrean and Swiss women in Switzerland, focusing on instrumental or surgical interventions and analgesia use.

Methods: The study included data from 45,412 Swiss and 1,132 Eritrean women who gave birth in Swiss hospitals (2019–2022). Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to assess the effect of nationality on mode of delivery and analgesia use and multinomial mixed-effects logistic regression to assess the effect of nationality on mode of delivery in women intended for spontaneous vaginal delivery.

Results: Compared with Swiss, Eritrean women had a lower rate of primary C-section (Adj. OR 0.73, 95% CI [0.60, 0.89]) but a higher risk of initially planned vaginal deliveries ending in emergency C-section (RRR 1.31, 95% CI [1.05, 1.63]). Eritrean women were less likely to receive epidural analgesia (Adj. OR 0.53, 95% CI [0.45, 0.62]) and more likely to not receive any analgesia (Adj. OR 1.73, 95% CI [1.52, 1.96]).

Conclusion: This study reveals disparities in obstetric care, notably in higher emergency C-section rates and lower analgesia use among Eritrean women. For promoting equitable healthcare practices deeper understanding of obstetrics decision-making is needed.
Captive Bolt Gun-Related Vascular Injury: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Pešak Jure , Porčnik Andrej , Prestor Borut
Published: May 2024

This article investigates the clinical and radiological characteristics of captive bolt gun head injuries, a rare form of low-velocity penetrating brain injury. Eleven consecutive patients were included in the study. Vascular injuries and the rate of infection were systematically analyzed. Radiological findings reveal common bolt trajectories in the anterior cranial fossa, with identified risk factors for a poor outcome including trajectory crossing midline, hematocephalus, and paranasal sinus involvement. Only one patient had a good outcome. Despite meticulous microsurgical techniques, this study highlights often unfavorable clinical outcomes in captive bolt gun injuries, with vascular injury identified as a potential contributing risk factor for a poor outcome. Knowledge of variant vascular tree anatomy and corresponding vascular territory is important. To avoid potential vascular injuries, a complete removal of bone fragments was not always performed and it did not increase the rate of infection, challenging the conventional wisdom advocating for the complete removal of bone fragments. These findings contribute novel insights into captive bolt gun-related injuries, paving the way for further research.
Vector Equilibrium Problems—A Unified Approach and Applications
Authors: Stamate Cristina
Published: May 2024

We present existing results and properties for the solutions of some vector equilibrium problems with set-valued functions in the case of a vector space ordered by a cone with some “interiority” properties. Some applications concerning the existence of equilibrium for abstract economies and vector optimization problems are given.
Identification of New Substrates and Inhibitors of Human CYP2A7
Authors: Ashraf Rana Azeem , Liu Sijie , Wolf Clemens Alexander , Wolber Gerhard , Bureik Matthias
Published: May 2024

CYP2A7 is one of the most understudied human cytochrome P450 enzymes and its contributions to either drug metabolism or endogenous biosynthesis pathways are not understood, as its only known enzymatic activities are the conversions of two proluciferin probe substrates. In addition, the CYP2A7 gene contains four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that cause missense mutations and have minor allele frequencies (MAFs) above 0.5. This means that the resulting amino acid changes occur in the majority of humans. In a previous study, we employed the reference standard sequence (called CYP2A7*1 in P450 nomenclature). For the present study, we created another CYP2A7 sequence that contains all four amino acid changes (Cys311, Glu169, Gly479, and Arg274) and labeled it CYP2A7-WT. Thus, it was the aim of this study to identify new substrates and inhibitors of CYP2A7 and to compare the properties of CYP2A7-WT with CYP2A7*1. We found several new proluciferin probe substrates for both enzyme variants (we also performed in silico studies to understand the activity difference between CYP2A7-WT and CYP2A7*1 on specific substrates), and we show that while they do not act on the standard CYP2A6 substrates nicotine, coumarin, or 7-ethoxycoumarin, both can hydroxylate diclofenac (as can CYP2A6). Moreover, we found ketoconazole, 1-benzylimidazole, and letrozole to be CYP2A7 inhibitors.
Host–Guest Interaction Study of Olmesartan Medoxomil with β-Cyclodextrin Derivatives
Authors: Andor Minodora , Temereancă Claudia , Sbârcea Laura , Ledeți Adriana , Man Dana Emilia , Mornoș Cristian , Ridichie Amalia , Cîrcioban Denisa , Vlase Gabriela , Barvinschi Paul , Caunii Angela , Văruţ Renata-Maria , Trandafirescu Cristina Maria , Buda Valentina , Ledeți Ionuț , Rădulescu Matilda
Published: May 2024

Olmesartan medoxomil (OLM) is a selective angiotensin II receptor antagonist used in the treatment of hypertension. Its therapeutic potential is limited by its poor water solubility, leading to poor bioavailability. Encapsulation of the drug substance by two methylated cyclodextrins, namely randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin (RM-β-CD) and heptakis(2,3,6-tri-O-methyl)-β-cyclodextrin (TM-β-CD), was carried out to overcome the limitation related to OLM solubility, which, in turn, is expected to result in an improved biopharmaceutical profile. Supramolecular entities were evaluated by means of thermoanalytical techniques (TG—thermogravimetry; DTG—derivative thermogravimetry), spectroscopic methods including powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), universal-attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared (UATR-FTIR) and UV spectroscopy, saturation solubility studies, and by a theoretical approach using molecular modeling. The phase solubility method reveals an AL-type diagram for both inclusion complexes, indicating a stoichiometry ratio of 1:1. The values of the apparent stability constant indicate the higher stability of the host–guest system OLM/RM-β-CD. The physicochemical properties of the binary systems are different from those of the parent compounds, emphasizing the formation of inclusion complexes between the drug and CDs when the kneading method was used. The molecular encapsulation of OLM in RM-β-CD led to an increase in drug solubility, thus the supramolecular adduct can be the subject of further research to design a new pharmaceutical formulation containing OLM, with improved bioavailability.
Acoustic Emission Monitoring for Damage Assessment of a Magnetite Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (MUHPC) Block in a Bending Test
Authors: Bourbour Cyrus
Published: May 2024

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is widely used because of its exceptional properties, such as high compressive and flexural strength, low permeability, and resistance to abrasion and chemical attack. It is commonly employed for intricate constructions like skyscrapers, precast concrete components, and infrastructure. Nevertheless, the incorporation of appropriate fibers into UHPC is carried out in order to accomplish objectives such as augmenting strength, enhancing toughness, and regulating cracking. This study employed magnetite as an additive to a UHPC block in order to examine the mechanical characteristics of a newly cast UHPC block. Acoustic emission was employed to evaluate the damage to the UHPC block for tracking purposes. Acoustic emission is a non-invasive testing technique that does not cause harm to the specimen when it is exposed to a load. On the basis of this, many critical locations that indicated the propagation of cracks were analyzed, as well as various loading stages across the specimen. The b-value is a method that can evaluate the extent of damage by analyzing the amplitude distribution. Distinct paths of b-values were noted for each loading stage, indicating major damage scenarios based on their slopes.
Synthesis and Properties of Bio-Based Polycarbonates Containing Silicone Blocks
Authors: Liu Mengjuan , Wang Hui , Fang Wei , Lu Tao , Wang Jinsen , Wu Guozhang
Published: May 2024

This study aims to investigate the effects of different hydroxy-terminated silicones on the properties of polycarbonate-silicone copolymers (ICS-PC) by introducing flexible and hydrophobic silicone into isosorbide-based polycarbonate through melt transesterification- polycondensation method. Through compatibility and transesterification experiments, it is confirmed that the alcohol-hydroxyl polydimethylsiloxane (a-PDMS) has higher reactivity and silicone conversion than the phenol-hydroxyl polydimethylsiloxane (p-PDMS), but the conversion does not exceed 81%. Polyether-modified silicone (PEMS) exhibits better compatibility and higher reactivity, thus resulting in higher conversion that can reach 86%. Effects of the type and content of silicone on the glass transition temperature (Tg), optical transparency, saturated water absorption, and mechanical strength of ICS-PCs were also discussed. It is found that p-PDMS has higher Tg, hydrophobicity, and mechanical strength with similar silicone content, but the total transmittance does not exceed 60%. In contrast, the PEMS system exhibits better optical transparency due to its improved compatibility with the PC matrix, with a total transmittance of up to 73%, Tg exceeding 150 °C while maintaining excellent flexibility and hydrophobicity. These results are helpful to further improve the comprehensive properties of bio-based polycarbonates.
Human resources analysis based on ESG approach
Authors:   Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Moscow, Russia, Babanskaya A. S. , Fedota A. A. ,   Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Moscow, Russia, Kadykova A. D. ,   Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Moscow, Russia
Published: May 2024

The article discusses the use of the ESG approach when analyzing the labor resources of an agricultural organization. The main factors related to social responsibility and human resource management that can be assessed based on the ESG approach are described. The relationship between the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and the directions of ESG-oriented analysis of labor resources is reflected. Discusses the benefits of using an ESG approach to workforce analysis, including improving company reputation, increasing operational efficiency, reducing risk, and improving community relations. It is concluded that it is necessary to transform the accounting and analytical system of agricultural organizations based on the ESG approach in accordance with the needs of the development of rural areas, strengthening social responsibility and increasing the investment attractiveness of agricultural organizations. The proposed methodological approach to analyzing labor resources can be used to assess the level of social development of the workforce when generating non-financial reporting of agricultural organizations.
İslam Hukuk Metodolojisinde Hâs Lafız ve Füru’ Fıkha Tesiri
Authors: Bilginer Yahya
Published: May 2024

Çalışmada, Kur’an ve Sünnette yer alan bazı hâs lafızlardan kaynaklanan çok anlamlılığın oluşmasına etki eden faktörlere ve füru‘-u fıkha tesir ettiği ihtilaflara dikkat çekilmeye çalışılmıştır. Her dilde olduğu gibi Arap dilinde de lafızların kullanımından kaynaklanan anlam çeşitliliğinin pratik tezahürleri söz konusudur. İslâm hukukuna dair füru‘-u meselelerde nassların önemli bir kısmının delâlet açısından içtihada açık olması birçok hükmün içtihat ile istinbat edilme sonucunu doğurmuştur. İçtihat ise hem farklı usûllerin benimsenmesinden hem de müçtehitlerin kavrayış ve anlayışlarının farklılık arz etmesinden kaynaklı olarak ihtilaflara sebebiyet vermiştir. İşte bu çalışmada, İslam hukuk usûlündeki hâs lafızlardan kaynaklanan görüş farklılıklarının sebepleri ve bu farklılıkların fürû‘-u fıkha tesiri incelenmiştir. Bu kapsamda görüş farklılıklarının dayanakları ve her bir görüş sahibinin diğer görüşlere ilişkin yaklaşımları ele alınarak ihtilafların şekillenmesinde etkili olan sebepler tespit edilmeye çalışılmıştır. Çalışmada istikra yöntemiyle nitel veri analizi kullanılmıştır. Ayet ve hadislerdeki metinler anlamlandırılırken dilin ve hâs lafızlar ile ilgili yaklaşımların önemli bir yere sahip olduğu görülmüştür.
S-method based on modified group delay for time-frequency analysis
Authors: Roopa S. , Narasimhan S.V.
Published: May 2024

A noise robust time-frequency representation based on the S-method (SM) and modified group delay (MGD) (S-MGD) is proposed in this article. The SM is free from cross-terms as it is the sum of individual Wigner distributions of different signal components and provides high-energy concentration
both in time and frequency. The MGD reduces the Gibbs ripple and spurious spectral peaks because of noise, without using any frequency smoothing, and thus maintains the best frequency resolution as that of rectangular window. Hence,a combination of SM and MGD provides the desirable features
of both the methods. The proposed method is tested for different signals like time varying random process, frequency shift keying, synthesized car engine sound/pressure signals using a solo combustion and a real-time echolocation pulse emitted by a big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) which indicate
that the new S-MGD has improved noise immunity and frequency resolution compared to the method that uses frequency smoothing to suppress noise and Gibbs effects.
Influence of the vibrating source behavior and source side excitations on the Interface Completeness Criterion
Authors: Padois Thomas , Prenant Simon , Dupont Thomas , Doutres Olivier
Published: May 2024

In the framework of component-based transfer path analysis (CB-TPA), the Interface Completeness Criterion (ICC) is used to select the mobility completeness, i.e., the number of degrees of freedom (DoFs) at the interface between a vibrating source and a receiving structure. The calculation
of the ICC is similar to a coherence function with values between 0 and 1. The higher the ICC, the better the completeness of the mobility. Although ICC has shown promising results, its application remains ambiguous. The influence of source side excitations and the behavior of the vibrating
source have not been investigated. In this study, ICC is computed numerically in the case of a rigid vibrating source connected to a plate. Full completeness provides high ICC values, while completeness along a single DoF, normal to the structure, provides low ICC values, which may suggest
a poor assessment of the on-board velocity. However, it is shown that the on-board velocity is perfectly estimated with the CB-TPA when the source behavior is simple. Discrepancies appear when the source behavior becomes more complex, but the link between these discrepancies and ICC is not
obvious. The influence of source side excitations during ICC calculation is also investigated in the case of the Z completeness. It is shown that the number and orientation of the source side excitations govern ICC values and therefore should follow the source behavior, which is normally unknown.
The numerical results are confirmed by the experimental study where similar results are obtained.
Investigating noise radiation pattern of railway bridges for urban rail transit
Authors: Chen Liuxiao , Boming Tang , Ting Shang , Zhang Yanzheng , Tang Jie , Huang Zhengdong , Xiang Hao
Published: May 2024

Noise from elevated railway bridges in urban areas has been causing severe environmental issues. To find the peak frequency of sound energy and thus develop targeted countermeasures for noise mitigation, policymakers need a better understanding of the noise characteristics of urban
railway bridges during train passage. This study approaches this issue by combining transient dynamic analyses and acoustic finite element simulation. Our frequency characteristic analysis focused on two primary noise sources: wheel-rail noise and bridge-borne noise. We built a spatial noise
model that predicts the radiated noise of urban railway bridges in both the active and planning stages. The results show that the wheel-rail noise peaked at 800 Hz, 1600 Hz, and 3150 Hz, while the bridge-borne noise peaked at 40 Hz, 50 Hz, 80 Hz, and 125 Hz. The validation results demonstrated
that the developed noise spatial prediction model extended well to similar urban railway bridges.
Stability of a reinforced concrete column under compression with torsion caused by accidental action
Authors: Kolchunov V. I. , Savin S. Y. , Amelina M. A.
Published: May 2024

Under emergency situations associated with sudden failures of the load-bearing elements of the structure, torques may additionally occur in the columns due to the specifics of the structural design of the buildings. Thus, the columns may be in a complex stress-strain state. The objective of this study was to develop a semi-analytical design model for analysis of the stability of reinforced concrete columns subjected to compression with torsion as a result of an accidental action. For achieving the objective, authors formulated the initial hypotheses, developed the determining equations for calculating the stability of a reinforced concrete column subjected to compression with torsion. To validate the reliability of the proposed model, it has been compared with the results of modeling in the software complex Ansys. Analysis of the data showed that the largest difference between the results was up to 8.08% for the case P = 0.4·Pcr,e = 126.6 kN. The smallest difference of 3.6% was for the case P = 0.9·Pcr,e = 284.85 kN. It has been shown that as the torque increases, there is a decrease in the value of the critical force causing loss of stability. This is due both to the action of the torsional pair of forces during the distortion of the rod and to the decrease in the mechanical properties of concrete under the combined action of normal and tangential stresses.
Development and Feature Analysis of 2022 revised Technology Subject Curriculum
Authors:   Korean Technology Education Association, Lim yunjin , Choi Yu Hyun , Kim Seonng-il , Kwon Seok Young , Ham Hyung-In
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to develop the 2022 revised technology and curriculum. The study was divided into primary and secondary research according to the government's curriculum development process. The research methods used in this study included literature research, expert consultation, Delphi survey, and policy consultation. One of the most important features of the 2022 revised technology subject curriculum development is that the participation of professors at technology teacher training institutions and current technology teachers increased compared to the previous curriculum. As a result of this participation and discussion, the results of the 2022 revised technology subject curriculum development study were derived. The results of this study are summarized as follows. First, the middle school technology curriculum was developed into two major areas: technological problem solving and innovation, and sustainable technology and convergence. Second, the high school technology curriculum was composed and developed with technology and home economics as general electives, robots and the world of engineering as career electives, and creative engineering design and general intellectual property as convergence electives. Third, all curriculum were developed by dividing them into changed content elements: knowledge/understanding, process/skill, value/attitude, and achievement standards were developed through combination of content elements. Fourth, the high school technology curriculum strengthened the nature of the engineering field and attempted to preserve the purpose of the high school credit system. The development process and main features of the 2022 revised technology subject curriculum can be used as explanatory material for future curriculum implementation, monitoring of future curriculum, and basic data for the next curriculum.