bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hysteresis in ocean heat uptake prevents polar climate reversibility in HadGEM3-GC3.1-LL climate model.
Authors: Ridley Jeff , Ringer Mark , Blockley Edward
Published: June 2024

The reversibility of climate change has seen much discussion – in particular through consideration of scenarios that overshoot a warming target before being cooled through carbon sequestration. The uptake of heat into the deep ocean during warming can result in hysteresis of global and local climate when warming is reversed. The impact of ocean heat uptake on climate reversibility can be efficiently investigated using idealised abrupt transition from pre-industrial atmospheric CO2 to four times pre-industrial levels followed by abrupt transitions back to pre-industrial. New multi-centennial simulations are undertaken, using the HadGEM3-GC3.1-LL climate model, in which abrupt transitions to pre-industrial conditions are simulated after 25, 100, 250 and 1000 years from the start of the existing instantaneous 4xCO2 CMIP6 experiment. These simulations result in increasing amount of heat being input to the ocean before releasing it during the cooling phase. We show that the loss of heat from the ocean in the cooling phase is slower than the heat uptake during warming, with the climate stabilising to an equilibrium state warmer than pre-industrial. During the warm state the Arctic undergoes Atlantification and, after the cooling phase, returns to an equilibrium state with greater poleward transport of Atlantic water. The Southern Ocean becomes more isolated from the global system during warming and takes up considerable local heat which is vented through sustained deep convection on cooling. In neither polar region does the sea ice return to its pre-industrial state, and thus we find that the climate system is not reversible for high warming levels. This will have implications for climate overshoot in the real world if warming is not controlled.
PDCD4 Inhibition Alleviates Neuropathic Pain by regulating Spinal Autophagy and neuroinflammation
Authors: Zhang Ting , Qi Le , Sun Kai , Huan Xiang , Zhang Hao , Zhou Meiyan , Wang Liwei
Published: June 2024

Neuropathic pain is still a clinical challenge. Inflammatory responses and autophagy in the spinal cord are important mechanisms for the occurrence and maintain of neuropathic pain. PDCD4 is an important molecule that regulates inflammatory responses and autophagy. However, the regulatory role of PDCD4 is unknown in pain modulation. In this study we found that the expression of PDCD4 in the spinal cord of CCI mice was increased. Inhibition of PDCD4 by intrathecal injection of adeno-associated virus alleviated neuropathic pain and enhanced autophagy in CCI mice, and inhibited the activation of MAPK pathway and glia, as well as the expression of inflammatory factors. Intrathecal injection of autophagy inhibitor 3-MA reversed PDCD4 inhibition induced pain relief and change of autophagy. Our results indicate that spinal cord inhibition of PDCD4 alleviates pain sensitization in neuropathic pain mice, and PDCD4 may be developed into a therapeutic target.
Stereotactic Core Ablative Radiation Therapy (SCART) - principal and practice of a novel strategy to treat bulky tumor
Authors: Yang Jun , yan Weisi , Lu Qiuxia , Li Yuan , Han Liangfu , Wang Lei , Qi Weihua , Yuan Jie , Chen Bingguang , Wang Brian
Published: June 2024

Purpose: Bulky tumor is a challenge to surgery, chemotherapy, and conventional radiation therapy. In this study, we propose a novel therapeutic paradigm using the strategy of Stereotactic Core Ablative Radiation Therapy (SCART), which delivers an ablative dose to a large core of the bulky tumor and a relative low dose at tumor periphery.
Methods and Materials: We pre-defined SCART-treatment volume (STV) at the core of bulky gross tumor volume (GTV) and irradiated with ablative dose. The remaining GTV surrounding STV was defined as Transitional Treatment Volume (TTV). SCART planning process was standardized. Linac-based VMAT, Cyberknife technique, and 6MV photon were adopted. Numerous radiation fields passed TTV, intersected within STV, and generated an ultra-heterogeneous dose distribution, including an ablative dose at STV. The dose quickly fell off at TTV and reached a low and safe level at the edge of GTV, sparing the surrounding tissue.
Results:
In Phase 1 trial, 19 patients with 21 biopsy-proven recurrent or metastatic bulky tumors were enrolled. The five dose levels were 15Gy X1, 15Gy X3, 18GyX3, 21GyX3, and 24GyX3; the GTV’s peripheral dose was limited at 5Gy per fraction. All patients completed treatment with average beam-on time of 8.9min and average treatment time of 18.5min. Mean follow-up time is 15.4 month. No grade-III or higher toxicity was observed. 7/19 patients still survive, with the overall survival of 40% at 30 months. Mean tumor volume shrinks by 60% between initial 301cc and post-SCART volumes of 118cc. Long follow-up showed that 14/21 tumors achieved PR, 2/21 CR, 3/21 SD, and 1/21 PD, leading to an encouraging local control of 95%.
Conclusion:
SCART emerges as a safe and effective strategy for treating bulky malignant tumors, demonstrating excellent local control and overall survival. Multiple treatment courses were feasible. The results from phase-1 study suggest that SCART could revolutionize the treatment landscape for bulky tumors, offering a promising avenue for further exploration and application in clinical practice.
Nutritional Assessment of Food Aid Delivered to Gaza by land and air drops, during the 2024 War
Authors: Fliss-Isakov Naomi , Nitzan Dorit , Magnazi Moran Blaychfeld , Mendlovic Joseph , Preis Sharon Alroy , Twig Gilad , Troen Aron M. , Endevelt Ronit
Published: June 2024

Background
The continuing Gaza-Israel war puts the civilian population in Gaza at risk of food and nutrition insecurity. We aimed to assess the nutritional content of the humanitarian food aid supplied to Gaza. We assembled and analyzed data on the quantity of food aid delivered to the Gaza Strip, and analyzed its compliance with population needs, as established by Sphere international humanitarian guidelines.
Methods
We obtained the registry of all food aid delivered to Gaza via air drops and land crossings between January - April 2024 from Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT). For every truck or airdrop of food, we categorized, quantified, and assessed the nutrient composition of individual food items. We then summed the energy, protein, fat, and iron content of all shipments, and calculated supply per capita per day, according to the size of Gaza’s population. Finally, we compared the findings to the Sphere standards for food security and nutrition in conflict-affected populations.
Results
Between January and April 2024, 14,916 trucks conveying 227,854 tons, and 95 airdrops weighing 3,694 tons of food entered Gaza. On average, 3,729 food trucks per month entered Gaza, with a continuous increase of 431 trucks per month since January. Between January and April, the overall weight of food shipments increased by 57%. Food group diversity increased. The crude mean per capita per day energy supplied was 3,374 kcal, protein was 101 gr (12.1% of energy), fat was 80.6 gr (21.5% of energy), and iron was 25.2 mg. Energy, protein, and fat amounts exceed Sphere recommendations. Although the amount of iron supplied improved over time, it remained lower than the Sphere standard.
Conclusions
Of the four pillars of food security - availability, access, utilization, and stability - this study focuses on the availability pillar. The quantity and quality of food aid delivered to Gaza have steadily improved since January 2024 and supply sufficient energy, protein, and fat for the population’s needs. In addition to monitoring the quality and quantity of food available to Gaza, reliable data on food distribution and population access will be necessary for securing the civilian population’s nutrition.
Retrospective Evaluation Of Pregnancy Outcomes In Patients With a History Of Bariatric Surgery
Authors: ATLIHAN UFUK , Ata Can , AVSAR HUSEYIN AYTUG , YAVUZ ONUR
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Obesity and overweight are significant risk factors for prenatal morbidity and death, and more females in reproductive age must have obesity surgery. The present study investigated the outcomes of pregnancies and births after bariatric surgeries.
Materials and Materials and Methods: All patients who gavexbirth from 2018 to 2023 in our clinic were included in this present study. The participants who had Bariatric Surgery (BS) previously were determined from the hospital database and their medicalxbirth records were obtained for data on pregnancy, birth, and perinatalxresults. The results of females who had bariatric surgeries previously were analyzed by comparing them with other pregnancies.
Results: A total of 298 females who had bariatricxsurgeries previously and 4374 women who had not undergone surgeries were included in the study. The group that underwent BS had a greater ratio of abortion (p:0.009) and IVF history (<.001). Pregnancy-inducedxhypertension (p<.001), preeclampsia (p:0.04), Gestational Diabetes (GDM) (p<i.001), premature birth (p<i.001), cesareanxdelivery (p<i.001) and small gestational age (p<i.001) rates were significantly higher in the bariatricxgroup.
Conclusion: Given the potential hazards for obese women who are of reproductive age, BS may be seen a prudent course of therapy. AfterxBS, there is a correlation between weight and pregnancy outcomes. Previous research revealed similar findings between groups in terms of pregnancy prognosis and pregnancy complications in obese and extremely obese patient groups.
The use of water retention agent in saline-alkali soil promotes the expression of nutrient transporter genes in wheat and increases grain yield.
Authors: Ji Cexun , Xu Yunshuo , Yang Min , Shi Yan
Published: June 2024

Salinity stress is a limiting factor for wheat production and food security. Water retention agent has been established as one soil conditioner to reduce soil water loss and improve crop yield. In this study, we designed a new compound water retention agent (CWRA) and tried to explore the response of the wheat after application in saline-alkali soil. In this two-year field and pot experiments, we set up a gradient dosage (15 kg ha-1, 30 kg ha-1, 45 kg ha-1) of CWRA, and a quantitative dosage (30 kg ha-1) of attapulgite water retention agent (AWRA), to investigate their effects on the nutrient accumulation, nutrient transport-related genes and yield of winter wheat in saline-alkali soil. Based on the results of our experiments, we found that: the treatments with water retention agent significantly increased the expression levels of the TaAMT1.1, TaGS1, and TaPHT2;1 genes, prolonged the growth period and increase grain yield, and improves water-use efficiency. It provided a theoretical and practical basis for the application of CWRA to saline-alkali soil planting.
On-treatment biopsies to predict response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer
Authors: Sinn Bruno Valentin , Sychra Katharina , Untch Michael , Karn Thomas , Mackelenbergh Marion van , Huober Jens , Schmitt Wolfgang , Marmé Frederik , Schem Christian , Solbach Christine , Stickeler Elmar , Tesch Hans , Fasching Peter A. , Schneeweiss Andreas , Müller Volkmar , Holtschmidt Johannes , Nekljudova Valentina , Loibl Sibylle , Denkert Carsten
Published: June 2024

Background
Patients with pathologic complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for invasive breast cancer (BC) have better outcomes, potentially warranting less extensive surgical and systemic treatments. Early prediction of treatment response could aid in adapting therapies.
Methods
On-treatment biopsies from 297 patients with invasive BC in three randomized, prospective neoadjuvant trials were assessed. BC quantity, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and the proliferation marker Ki-67 were compared to pre-treatment samples. The study investigated the correlation between residual cancer, changes in Ki-67 and TILs, and their impact on pathologic complete response (pCR) and disease-free survival (DFS).
Results
Among the 297 samples, 138 (46%) were hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth factor 2-negative (HER2-), 87 (29%) were triple-negative (TNBC), and 72 (24%) were HER2+. Invasive tumor cells were found in 70% of on-treatment biopsies, with varying rates across subtypes (HR+/HER2-: 84%, TNBC: 62%, HER2+: 51%; p < 0.001). Patients with residual tumor on-treatment had an 8% pCR rate post-treatment (HR+/HER2-: 3%, TNBC: 19%, HER2+: 11%), while those without any invasive tumor had a 50% pCR rate (HR+/HER2-: 27%; TNBC: 48%, HER2+: 66%). Sensitivity for predicting residual disease was 0.81, with positive and negative predictive values of 0.92 and 0.50, respectively. Increasing TILs from baseline to on-treatment biopsy (if residual tumor was present) were linked to higher pCR likelihood in the overall cohort (OR 1.034, 95% CI 1.013–1.056 per % increase; p = 0.001) and with a longer DFS in TNBC (HR 0.980, 95% CI 0.963–0.997 per % increase; p = 0.026). Persisting or increased Ki-67 was associated with lower pCR probability in the overall cohort (OR 0.957, 95% CI 0.928–0.986; p = 0.004) and shorter DFS in TNBC (HR 1.023, 95% CI 1.001–1.047; p = 0.04).
Conclusion
On-treatment biopsies can predict patients unlikely to achieve pCR post-therapy. This could facilitate therapy adjustments for TNBC or HER2 + BC. They also might offer insights into therapy resistance mechanisms. Future research should explore whether standardized or expanded sampling enhances the accuracy of on-treatment biopsy procedures.
Trial Registration
GeparQuattro (EudraCT 2005-001546-17; Start date: 28.06.2005), GeparQuinto (EudraCT 2006-005834-19; Start date: 27.10.2007) and GeparSixto (EudraCT 2011-000553-23; Start date: 29.09.2011).
Enhancing Phytoremediation of Bauxite Mine Subsoil by Jatropha curcas L. using Sewage Sludge and Poultry Sludge
Authors: Lim Mingyuan , Wahid Samsuri Abd. , Shukor Mohd Yunus Abd , Phang Lai-Yee
Published: June 2024

Phytoremediation is a sustainable technology for cleaning up heavy metal contamination at mining sites. However, degraded soils at these sites create a harsh environment for plants to survive and properly yield biomass. In this study, sewage sludge and poultry sludge were applied as soil amendments in bauxite mine subsoil to determine their impact on the growth and heavy metal uptake of Jatropha curcas L. Both sewage sludge and poultry sludge were applied at 25% and 50%. J. curcas was grown in the amended soils for 120 days under greenhouse conditions. Changes in soil physico-chemical properties, plant growth and heavy metal uptake of J. curcas were determined after that. An increase in EC, CEC, total C, total N, total available P and total extractable K was detected in the amended soils. These improvements enhanced the growth of J. curcas, particularly in the development of above-ground plant biomass. Increased plant biomass subsequently led to higher bioaccumulation and translocation efficiency of Al, Fe, Pb and Zn. As a result, higher heavy metal removal of up to 98.03% was detected in the amended treatments. The findings indicated that the application of sewage sludge and poultry sludge improves soil conditions for plant development.
Differential transcriptomic host responses in the early phase of viral and bacterial infections in human lung tissue explants ex vivo
Authors: Sohail Aaqib , Waqas Fakhar , Braubach Peter , Czichon Laurien , Samir Mohamed , Iqbal Azeem , de Araujo Leonardo , Pleschka Stephan , Steinert Michael , Geffers Robert , Pessler Frank
Published: June 2024

Background
. The first 24 hours of infection represent a critical time window in interactions between pathogens and host tissue. However, it is not possible to study such early events in human lung during natural infection due to lack of clinical access to tissue this early in infection. We, therefore, applied RNA sequencing to ex vivo cultured human lung tissue explants (HLTE) from patients with emphysema to study global changes in small noncoding RNA, mRNA, and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA, lincRNA) populations during the first 24 hours of infection with influenza A virus (IAV), Mycobacterium bovis Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Results.
P. aeruginosa caused the strongest expression changes and was the only pathogen that notably affected expression of microRNA and PIWI-associated RNA. The major classes of long RNAs (> 100 nt) were represented similarly among the RNAs that were differentially expressed upon infection with the three pathogens (mRNA 77–82%; lncRNA 15–17%; pseudogenes 4–5%), but lnc-DDX60-1, RP11-202G18.1, and lnc-THOC3-2 were part of an RNA signature (additionally containing SNX10 and SLC8A1) specifically associated with IAV infection. IAV infection induced brisk interferon responses, CCL8 being the most strongly upregulated mRNA. Single-cell RNAseq identified airway epithelial cells and macrophages as the predominant IAV host cells, but inflammatory responses were also detected in cell types expressing few or no IAV transcripts. Combined analysis of bulk and single-cell RNAseq data identified a set of 6 mRNAs (IFI6, IFI44L, IRF7, ISG15, MX1, MX2) as the core transcriptomic response to IAV infection. The two bacterial pathogens induced qualitatively very similar changes in mRNA expression and predicted signaling pathways, but the magnitude of change was greater in P. aeruginosa infection. Upregulation of GJB2, VNN1, DUSP4, SerpinB7, and IL10, and downregulation of PKMYT1, S100A4, GGTA1P, and SLC22A31 were most strongly associated with bacterial infection.
Conclusions.
Human lung tissue mounted substantially different transcriptomic responses to infection by IAV than by BCG and P. aeruginosa, whereas responses to these two divergent bacterial pathogens were surprisingly similar. This HLTE model should prove useful for RNA-directed pathogenesis research and biomarker discovery during the early phase of infections, both at the tissue and single-cell level.
The way “urbanization” is defined has strong implications for its effects on mammal abundance
Authors: Poisson Mairi K.P. , Gebresenbet Fikirte , Butler Andrew R. , Tate Patrick , Bergeron Daniel H. , Moll Remington J.
Published: June 2024

It is now well-recognized that urbanization strongly impacts wildlife communities and populations. However, we typically do not know which feature(s) affect individual species most strongly, and this lack of understanding impedes theory development and effective planning for conservation and management goals. To address this knowledge gap, we evaluated how the abundance of ten mammal species responded to six different features of urbanization quantified at five spatial scales using data from 112 camera traps deployed for two years across a gradient of urbanization in New Hampshire, USA. We fit Bayesian abundance models to measure response to each feature and scale. There was no singular urban feature or spatial scale in the best model for all species. Rather, species responded uniquely to features across scales, and the scale of urban features in the best model also varied. Within a species, the magnitude and direction of response varied across features and scales, with only black bear (Ursus americanus), gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), and Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) exhibiting a consistently significant unidirectional relationship with a single feature across all scales. Our results emphasize that species respond to specific urban features, thus a failure to include certain features can cause misleading inference about wildlife response to “urbanization”. Therefore, researchers must carefully justify the choice of urban feature and spatial scale at which it is represented for each species of interest. An expanded inclusion of multiple urban features in wildlife research will inform management decisions and help attain conservation goals for species impacted by urbanization.
Predictive factors of progression in fibrosing interstitial lung disease patients with gender-age-physiology stage 0 or I
Authors: Okamoto Masaki , Fujimoto Kiminori , Chikasue Tomonori , Yanagihara Toyoshi , Tabata Kazuhiro , Zaizen Yoshiaki , Tominaga Masaki , Sumi Akiko , Takeoka Hiroaki , Matsuo Norikazu , Nouno Takashi , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Hoshino Tomoaki
Published: June 2024

The prognostic factors in mild fibrosing interstitial lung disease (FILD) have not been established. We retrospectively attempted to identify predictive factors of annual progression in mild FILD with gender-age-physiology (GAP) stage 0 or I using logistic regression analysis, adjusting for confounding factors associated with prognosis. Annual progression was defined as more than 10% decrease in forced vital capacity (FVC) or 15% decrease in diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO), developing acute exacerbation, or death due to FILD. Univariate analysis showed that higher age, diagnosis of fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonia (HP), definite usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern on CT, GAP stage I, lowest SpO2 and decrease in SpO2, and shorter walk distance in 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were significantly associated with a higher incidence of annual progression. Multivariate analysis showed that independent predictive factors of higher annual progression were diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and fibrotic HP, definite UIP pattern on CT, GAP stage I, lower DLCO, lowest SpO2 and decrease in SpO2 in the 6MWT, and higher chronic pulmonary emphysema assessment test. Evaluating prognostic factors in patients with mild FILD has potential to identify patients who are suitable for early intervention with antifibrotic therapy.
Malaria treatment for prevention: a modelling study of the impact of routine case management on malaria prevalence and burden
Authors: Camponovo Flavia , Jeandron Aurélie , Skrip Laura A. , Golumbeanu Monica , Champagne Clara , Symons Tasmin L. , Connell Mark , Gething Peter , Visser Theodoor , Menach Arnaud Le , Cohen Justin M. , Pothin Emilie
Published: June 2024

Background Testing and treating symptomatic malaria cases is crucial for case management, but it may also prevent future illness by reducing mean infection duration. Measuring the impact of effective treatment on burden and transmission via field studies or routine surveillance systems is difficult and potentially unethical. This project uses mathematical modeling to explore how increasing treatment of symptomatic cases impacts malaria prevalence and incidence.Methods Leveraging the OpenMalaria stochastic agent-based transmission model, we first simulated an array of transmission intensities with baseline effective treatment coverages of 28%, 44%, and 54% incorporated to reflect the 2023 coverage distribution across Africa, as estimated by the Malaria Atlas Project. We assessed the impact of increasing coverage as high as 60%, the highest 2023 estimate on the continent. Subsequently, we performed simulations resembling the specific subnational endemicities of Kenya, Mozambique, and Benin, using publicly available estimates of intervention coverages to reproduce historical subnational prevalence. We estimated the impact of increasing effective treatment coverage in these example settings in terms of prevalence reduction and clinical cases averted in children under 5 and the total population.Results The most significant prevalence reduction – up to 50% – was observed in young children from lower transmission settings (prevalence below 0.2), alongside a 35% reduction in incidence, when increasing effective treatment from 28–60%. A nonlinear relationship between baseline transmission intensity and the impact of treatment was observed. Increasing effective treatment coverage to 60% led to an estimated 39% of young children in Benin and 20% in Mozambique that would no longer live in high-risk areas (prevalence in children under 5 years old > 0.3). In Kenya where most of the population lives in areas with prevalence below 0.15, and case management is high (53.9%), 0.39% of children were estimated to transition to lower-risk areas.Conclusion Improving case management directly reduces the burden of illness, but these results suggest it also reduces transmission, especially for young children. In synergy with vector control interventions, enhancing case management can be an important tool for reducing transmission intensity over time.
Optimization of Distillation of Water-acetone Mixture in the Production Process of Cellulose Acetate Fibers
Authors: RUAS CAMILA VIEIRA , Tovar Laura Plazas , Falleiro Rafael Mauricio Matricarde
Published: June 2024

In certain textile industries, acetone is used as a solvent in the production of cellulose acetate fibers. Since it is not added to the final product, its recovery at the end of the process is necessary, mainly due to economic and environmental factors. This study examined the pressure modulation distillation process of acetone/water in a cellulose acetate fiber production plant and performed a sensitivity analysis of the main process parameters (steam flow rate, reflux ratio, and column pressure) to evaluate the best operating point concerning energy consumption and process specifications. Using the NRTL-RK parameter set in the ASPEN Plus® computational environment, the proposed model satisfactorily represented the system's operation, achieving a 98.9% acetone recovery. The sensitivity analysis of the pressure modulation distillation system defined the best process operating point (pressure, reflux ratio, and steam flow rate), reaching a 97.0% purity and a flow rate of 3964 kg/h. The studied pressure modulation distillation system operated with a 15.6% reduction in steam consumption when operated at 4.4 bar and a 1.75 reflux ratio in the higher-pressure column, 1.03 bar, and a 1.8 reflux ratio in the lower pressure column, adjusting the reflux ratios to 1.75 in the higher-pressure column and 1.8 in the lower pressure column. This steam reduction, in addition to reducing operating costs, also makes the process safer by lowering pressure. Another significant factor is the potential for reduced pollutant generation caused by fossil fuel combustion and the generation of carbon credits.
Biofilm characterization of Mycoplasma bovis co-cultured with Trueperella pyogenes
Authors: Nishi Koji , Gondaira Satoshi , Hirano Yuki , Ohashi Masahide , Sato Ayano , Matsuda Kazuya , Iwasaki Tomohito , Kanda Takuya , Uemura Ryoko , Higuchi Hidetoshi
Published: June 2024

Mycoplasma pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis) is associated with severe inflammatory reactions in the trachea and lungs and can be difficult to treat with antibiotics. Biofilms play a significant role in the persistence of bacteria and contribute to chronic lesions. A recent study showed that polymicrobial interactions of species are an important factor in biofilm formation, but the detailed mechanism of biofilm formation of M. bovis remains unknown. Assuming multiple pathogen infections in bovine respiratory disease complex, this study examined the characterization of the polymicrobial relationship between M. bovis and Trueperella pyogenes (T. pyogenes) during biofilm formation. Bacterium-like aggregation structures (> 10 µm), which were assumed to be biofilms of M. bovis in vivo, were observed adhering to the cilia in calves with Mycoplasma pneumonia. M. bovis released extracellular matrix to connect with neighboring bacteria and form a mature biofilm on the plate. Biofilm formation in co-culture of M. bovis and T. pyogenes tended to increase compared to that in single culture of these bacteria. Additionally, some large aggregates (> 40 µm) composed of M. bovis and T. pyogenes were observed. The morphological characteristics of this biofilm were similar to those observed in vivo compared to a single culture. In conclusion, the polymicrobial interaction between M. bovis and T. pyogenes induced biofilm formation, which was associated with increased resistance to antimicrobial agents, thereby exacerbating the progression of chronic Mycoplasma pneumonia.
Association of blood cadmium levels with all-cause and cause-specific mortality among adults with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Xu Congxi , Li Zhi , Hao Shirui , Zhang Jian , Li Jinlong , Liang Kuopeng , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Yi , Zhao Guangyuan , Bai Mengyun , Liu Dengxiang , Wang Jitao
Published: June 2024

Background
Cadmium (Cd) accumulates in the body over time, damaging organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain. Some researchers have suggested that elevated blood Cd levels may contribute to the onset and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, only a few studies have investigated the association between Cd exposure and long-term health outcomes in patients with NAFLD. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of blood cadmium levels for mortality risk in patients with NAFLD.
Methods
This study analyzed data from 13,790 patients with NAFLD in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, covering the years 1999 to 2018. Patients were categorized into three groups based on their blood Cd levels. The relationship between blood cadmium concentrations and all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality in NAFLD patients was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression while accounting for potential confounders. Results were visualised using Kaplan-Meier and restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves. Stratified analyses were performed for validation of the robustness of the results.
Results
The study included 13,790 individuals. After adjusting for all covariates, blood Cd levels were positively associated with all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality in patients with NAFLD, showing a significant linear dose-response relationship. Specifically, for each unit increase in Log-transformed blood cadmium concentration, the risk of all-cause mortality increased by 195% (HR = 2.95, 95% CI: 2.43–3.58); cardiovascular mortality risk increased by 173% (HR = 2.73, 95% CI: 1.90–3.93); and cancer mortality risk increased by 277% (HR = 3.77, 95% CI: 2.54–5.59). Stratified analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings, indicating that female patients and those under 60 were more susceptible to the effects of blood cadmium on all-cause mortality. Additionally, patients with hypertension and those under 60 years of age were more vulnerable to cardiovascular mortality.
Conclusions
Our study suggests that high Blood Cd levels adversely affect the prognosis of patients with NAFLD. Individuals with NAFLD should be aware of Cd exposure and take preventive measures. Moreover, stricter environmental protection policies may be necessary to reduce Cd exposure.
Sleep traits and telomere length: a bi-directional Mendelian randomization analysis based on UK Biobank data
Authors: Wang Zhongtian , You Dongfang , Tang Yingdan , Chen Yina , Chen Xin , Zhou Jiawei , Wu Yaqian , Shen Sipeng , Zhang Ruyang , Chen Feng , Xu Hai , Zhao Yang
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Numerous studies have demonstrated that shorter leucocyte telomere length (LTL) is associated with aging. Sleep is an important aging-related lifestyle. However, the causal relationship and direction between sleep traits and LTL remain unclear.
(2) Methods: The causal relationship was assessed by bi-directional and non-linear Mendelian randomization in the UK Biobank (UKB) cohort. Further, we combined nap during day and chronotype as circadian rhythm, MR analysis was applied to circadian rhythm as well.
(3) Results: MR analysis with LTL as the outcome showed causal effect of nap during the day (β = -0.073, 95%CI [-0.127, -0.020], FDR-corrected P = 0.045) on LTL. No genetic association of other sleep traits and LTL was observed in MR analysis. Meanwhile, a later circadian rhythm was associated with a shorter telomere length (β = -0.132, 95%CI [-0.185, -0.078], P < 0.001).
(4) Conclusions: In this study, individuals with frequent daytime naps and late circadian rhythm had shorter LTL. However, both bi-directional and non-linear MR failed to reveal any evidence that sleep duration was associated with telomere shortening.
Characteristics of Self-Motion Sensation after Major Earthquake: Internet Survey
Authors: Tsunoda Reiko , Kamo Tomohiko , Dobashi Yumi , Fushiki Hiroaki
Published: June 2024

Background
It has been reported that after experiencing a major earthquake, one may feel as though their body is swaying, even when they are not actually moving. A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula on New Year’s Day 2024. To investigate the prognosis of self-motion sensations following an earthquake, we conducted an Internet survey of local residents in the area surrounding the epicenter.
Methods
A cross-sectional Internet monitoring survey was conducted two months after the earthquake and 1,000 responses were received. Of these, 968 were included in the final analysis. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association of age, sex, residence, and personal characteristics with the incidence of self-motion sensation after an earthquake, degree of disturbance in daily life, and persistence of symptoms, based on participants' responses to a questionnaire.
Results
Of the 968 participants, 416 (43.0%) experienced a brief self-motion sensation for the first time after the earthquake. More than half the participants were anxious or scared about this sensation. A total of 18.5% of participants experiencing self-motion sensations reported that these sensations were disrupting their daily lives. This disruption was associated with being younger, having a history of dizziness treatment, and experiencing anxiety. More than half of the self-motion sensations resolved within two weeks; however, 24.5% persisted after two months. Proximity to the epicenter and anxiety were associated with prolonged self-motion sensations.
Conclusions
Self-motion sensations are common after a major earthquake and usually resolve spontaneously. However, the findings show that quarter of the participants with self-motion sensation experienced prolongation of symptoms and disrupted the daily lives of nearly 20%. Additionally, having anxiety was associated with a worse prognosis. Focused attention is required for individuals with characteristics associated with vulnerability to self-motion sensations.
The Role of Psychological Capital in Academic Procrastination and Adjustment Among Mothers in Higher Education
Authors: Walter Ofra , Hazan Batel Liran -
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the relationships between psychological capital (PsyCap), academic procrastination, and academic adjustment, comparing mothers in higher education to non-mothers. We hypothesized academic procrastination would mediate the relationship between PsyCap and academic adjustment in both groups. Utilizing a sample of 216 students (156 mothers, 60 non-mothers) from various higher education institutions in Israel, we employed a cross-sectional design to analyze the interrelationships among PsyCap, academic procrastination, and academic adjustment. The findings showed significant positive correlations between PsyCap and academic adjustment, and significant negative correlations between PsyCap and procrastination, for both mothers and non-mothers. There were no significant differences in PsyCap, academic adjustment, and procrastination for mothers and non-mothers. The mediation analysis confirmed procrastination mediated the relationship between PsyCap and academic adjustment in both groups. These results suggest higher PsyCap is associated with lower levels of procrastination and better academic adjustment. The study underscores the importance of fostering PsyCap and providing robust social support systems to improve academic outcomes for all students, particularly mothers.
Brevibacterium litoralis sp. nov., isolated from marine surface sediment
Authors: Yang Quan , Zhao Aolin , Liu Haifei , Li Jiawei , Wu Shujing , Huang Ying , Weng Jie , Jiang Yi , Jiang Mingguo
Published: June 2024

A Gram stain-positive, non-spore-forming, non-motile, short-rod actinomyces strain GXQ1321T was isolated from maritime surface sediments in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and a number of categorization studies were performed. Following a period of 72 hours of incubation at a temperature of 30°C within an actinomycetes culture medium, the colony was yellow, circular, smooth, central bulge, convex, opaque, with a 1.8-3.0 mm diameter. Chemotaxonomic studies revealed that the major menaquinone in strain GXQ1321T is MK-8. The most prevalent cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C19:0 (27.28%), anteiso-C15:0 (18.97%), anteiso-C17:0 (15.95%), and iso-C16:0 (12.21%). The whole-cell sugars of the strain GXQ1321T identified were rhamnose, xylose and glucose. Strain GXQ1321T exhibited the presence of meso-diaminopimelic acid (m-DAP) as a distinctive cell-wall diamino acid, and the polar lipids were identified as diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), three phosphoglycolipidsone, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), one unknown phospholipid (UP) and one unknown glycolipid (UG). This strain had 69.6% DNA G + C content. Strain GXQ1321T is classified as Brevibacterium based on its 16S rRNA gene sequence. It is closely related to Brevibacterium samyangense SST-8T (96.77%) and Brevibacterium rongguiense 5221T (96.32%). The results showed that the average nucleotide identity (ANI) values of GXQ1321T and the above two strain tyoes were 73.91–77.14%, and the digital DNA-DNA hybridisation (dDDH) values were 15.3–21.1%. Based on the phylogenetic, chemotaxonomi and physiologicalc data, strain GXQ1321T was considered to be a new species of the genus Brevibacterium, named Brevibacterium litoralis sp. nov, with the type strain GXQ1321T (= MCCC 1K08964T = KCTC 59167T).
Multi-objective Optimization for Order Assignment in Food Cart Evaluation System
Authors: Tunga Harinandan , Hossain Hasanuj-Jaman , Kar Samarjit , Giri Debasis
Published: June 2024

The growing trend of busy scheduling in everybody’s lifestyle has evolved the concept of the door-to-door delivery system. So, keeping that in mind and food being an essential commodity of life, we have seen that the food delivery industry has boomed in recent years. However, finding the best quality food at a minimum cost is a problem of interest. It is complicated for any customer to decide where to buy the best food at optimal cost if there is no such rating concept for the food. There is no concrete mechanism to help customers with the recommendation process. In this paper, we have designed a model that would help customers evaluate the various food carts that are serving in different locations and generalize the cost and overall rating based on service and food quality. It would basically work in the concept of minimizing the cost and maximizing the overall rating of the food cart. In order to get food cart evaluations, a multi-objective optimization problem is formulated, which includes mainly three multi-objective evolutionary optimization algorithms, namely NSGAII (Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II), SPEA II (Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algorithm 2) and IBEA (Indicator-Based Evolutionary Algorithm) for the generation of approximated Pareto solutions of our proposed model. The proposed work contributes to an analytics-based approach, mainly based on evolutionary algorithm solutions, to create a multi-objective food cart evaluation system. We used the Zomato dataset to validate the results for comparison and evaluation purposes.
Enhancing dairy cattle sustainability: The Impact of silvopastoral systems and improved pastures on milk carbon footprint and farm economics in Cauca Department, Colombia
Authors: Quintero Ricardo González , García Elver Hernando , Florez Fernando , Burkart Stefan , Arango Jacobo
Published: June 2024

Cattle farming accounts for approximately 15% of Colombia's greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE). Silvopastoral systems (SPS) and improved pastures (IP) are recognized as effective strategies for transforming dairy systems by enhancing cattle productivity, reducing climate change impact, and increasing farm profitability. This study aims to (i) calculate the carbon footprint (CF) of four small dairy cattle farms in the Cauca Department and (ii) identify improvements in milk yields, reductions in GHGE intensities after implementing SPS and improved pastures (IP), and changes in profitability indicators. GHGE were calculated using the 2019 Refinement to 2006 IPCC guidelines and impact factors from databases. The functional units were one kg of fat and protein-corrected milk (FPCM) and one kg of live weight gain, using a cradle-to-farm-gate approach. A biophysical allocation method was applied for handling co-products leaving the farm. Baseline milk CFs ranged from 2.4 to 3.2 kgCO2-eq kgFPCM− 1. In the improvement scenario, the area with SPS and IP covered more than 48% of the total farm area on average. SPS and IP increased the availability and quality of forage, leading to higher animal yields and reducing milk CF by up to 40% (ranging from 1.4 to 2.7 kgCO2-eq kgFPCM− 1), and improved farm profitability. These findings provide evidence of the positive impact of adopting IP and SPS on the sustainability of small dairy systems in Colombia by enhancing animal productivity and reducing GHGE intensities.
The Probability Density of the Spectral Correlation Function Estimates
Authors: Tavares Miguel , Gerald José , Goes João
Published: June 2024

Since published in 1988, the FFT Accumulation Method (FAM) has been used extensively to compute the Spectral Correlation Function (SCF) and the Spectral Coherence Function (SCoF) to obtain or detect cyclic features of cyclostationary signals. When the input is a Gaussian random variable (r.v.), the SCF (or SCoF) estimates are also random variables with some probability density function (pdf).
Although the FAM is considered the most computationally efficient method, there has been no in-depth statistical analysis of the algorithm.
This paper analyzes the statistics of spectral estimates using the FAM algorithm by obtaining the pdf for the points covering the frequency and cycle frequency (f;α) plane.
Testing copper intrauterine devices to mitigate uterine infections in mares: a pilot study
Authors: Gradil Carlos , Jennette Amelia , Becker Klaus , Haire Teresa , Joone Carolynne , Leibstein Miranda , Minter Lisa
Published: June 2024

This pilot study in seven mares evaluated the effectiveness of a one-time insertion of a novel hormone/drug-free copper intrauterine device (CuiUPOD with one to three copper-coated magnetic units) in controlling Streptococcus zooepidemicus in intrauterine-inoculated mares. The setting involved: initially inserting one unit into each mare; weekly trans-rectal ultrasound; blood progesterone assay; uterine swabs for cytology and microbial culture; uterine specimens for biopsy; and trans-abdominal detection of the CuiUPOD using a handheld magnetic detector and/or a cell phone compass. The study was complemented with an in vitro experiment.
Infection persisted after a CuiUPOD with one magnetic unit was inserted, but subsided shortly after two additional magnetic units were used. By day 90, at device removal, and after a 30-day exposure to copper, all the mares presented no clinical signs of infection. Endometrial biopsies showed a grade improvement in two mares, but not significant (p >0.05), before and after CuiUPOD placement. The in vitro experiment demonstrated a time (24-96 hours) and dose-dependent response to Cu: three CuiUPODs - OD readings = 0.538; two CuiUPODs - OD = 0.513; and one CuiUPOD - OD = 0.452. As the concentration of copper increased, so did the antimicrobial effect. These findings suggest a promising use for the one-time application of a CuiUPOD with either two or three magnetic units to mitigate uterine infections in mares.
CHIRP-Seq: FoxP2 transcriptional targets in zebra finch brain include numerous speech and language-related genes
Authors: Gedman Gregory L. , Kimball Todd H. , Atkinson Lee L. , Factor Daniella , Vojtova Gabriela , Farias-Virgens Madza , Wright Timothy F. , White Stephanie A.
Published: June 2024

Background
Vocal learning is a rare, convergent trait that is fundamental to both human speech and birdsong. The Forkhead Box P2 (FoxP2) transcription factor appears necessary for both types of learned signals, as human mutations in FoxP2 result in speech deficits, and disrupting its expression in zebra finches impairs male-specific song learning. In juvenile and adult male finches, striatal FoxP2 mRNA and protein decline acutely within song-dedicated neurons during singing, indicating that its transcriptional targets are also behaviorally regulated. The identities of these targets in songbirds, and whether they differ across sex, development and/or behavioral conditions, are largely unknown.
Results
Here we used chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-Seq) to identify genomic sites bound by FoxP2 in male and female, juvenile and adult, and singing and non-singing birds. Our results suggest robust FoxP2 binding concentrated in putative promoter regions of genes. The number of genes likely to be bound by FoxP2 varied across conditions, suggesting specialized roles of the candidate targets related to sex, age, and behavioral state. We validated these binding targets both bioinformatically, with comparisons to previous studies and biochemically, with immunohistochemistry using an antibody for a putative target gene. Gene ontology analyses revealed enrichment for human speech- and language-related functions in males only, consistent with the sexual dimorphism of song learning in this species. Fewer such targets were found in juveniles relative to adults, suggesting an expansion of this regulatory network with maturation. The fewest speech-related targets were found in the singing condition, consistent with the well-documented singing-driven down-regulation of FoxP2 in the songbird striatum.
Conclusions
Overall, these data provide an initial catalog of the regulatory landscape of FoxP2 in an avian vocal learner, offering dozens of target genes for future study and providing insight into the molecular underpinnings of vocal learning.
Design and structure of an integrated secondary school course of quantum information science with photon polarization and which-path encoding
Authors: Zuccarini Giacomo , Sutrini Claudio , Bondani Maria , Macchiavello Chiara , Malgieri Massimiliano
Published: June 2024

Research and curriculum development on quantum information science is a novel but technologically and socially significant challenge for physics education. While the debate is open on the core content, the approaches, and the strategies for addressing the need of effective instruction on the subject-matter, some indications have begun to emerge. Among them, the importance of an earlier start of education and of helping students develop not only a theoretical knowledge, but also high-level experimental skills including ideal design and conduction of experiments. Such skills are challenging to attain in existing traditional programs and may be considered inaccessible at introductory level because of the difficulties connected with qubit implementations. Here we present the design process and the structure of a course for secondary school that is aimed to promote the building of a basic but integrated understanding of quantum information science, including experimental design and lab activities. The course was developed within the model of educational reconstruction, and embedded into a conceptual change framework in physics and computation. The encoding of polarization and which-path information of a photon is used to engage students in the development of a global model of logical encoding and processing, in ideal experimental design of gates and circuits, and in their implementation on the optical bench. These learning processes are assisted by a coordinated use of multiple representations and by a clarification of the internal structure of quantum algorithms, with special attention to the information processing phase.