bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the alcohol yield from sugar cane bagasse in small existing distilleries.
Authors: Suárez Cristo David Santana , Diaz Oscar Gonzalez , Melián Elisenda Pulido , Rodríguez Julieta Cristina Schallenberg
Published: July 2024

The gradual increase in the consumption of fossil fuels, coupled with the current economic and social situation, has created the need to seek alternatives for the self-sufficiency of territories, thereby promoting an increase in socio-economic well-being in the surrounding areas. Second-generation bioethanol derived from lignocellulosic waste from the agro-industrial sector is a biofuel with high potential, which can take advantage of existing infrastructure. In this line, several full scale experiments were performed in real environment in a distillery factory in the island of Gran Canaria. After performing acid hydrolysis and enzymatic hydrolysis using sugarcane bagasse from the factory, it has been observed that good yields cannot be achieved without the pretreatment stage, with acid hydrolysis (<30%) and enzymatic hydrolysis (<79%) performing poorly. In comparison, alkaline pretreatment in enzymatic hydrolysis has shown superior conversion rates exceeding 80%. However, an optimal time has been sought for our working conditions to limit the formation of inhibitors, which would have a negative impact during the subsequent fermentation process.
Feeding deterrence, and Larvicidal potential effects of Melletia furrgunia seed solvent extracts against Diamondback moth. Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)
Authors: Nega Adem
Published: July 2024

The feeding deterrence and larvicidal potential effects of Melletia furrgunia seed powder solvent extract against Plutella xylostella L. larvae were evaluated under laboratory conditions. Cabbage leaves were dipped into a test solution of 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.4mg/ml (w/v) for 1hr. The result showed that feeding was fully prevented at higher rates of polar solvent extracts. Leaves treated with polar extracts caused higher larval mortality. The highest mortality was recorded from water and acetone extracts. Mortality for neonates and third instars was very high in polar solvent extracts and has much smaller LC50 values. Other extracts have higher LC50 and caused significant larvae kill only at higher rates. In conclusion, polar solvent extracts of M. furrgunia possess significant feeding deterrence and larvicidal effects against P. xylostella.
RDW-CV / Albumin Ratio Provides Across Cancer Sites Strong Explained Variance in Risk Modelling Using Routinely Available Biomarkers
Authors: Garcia Gustavo , Hameed Maha , Zhen Kevin Cai , Rosario Manuel , Hamad Karen , Wiese-Rometsch Wilhelmine , Smith Robert , Ning Ke
Published: July 2024

Cancer patients frequently face risks for hospitalization, ICU admission, and mortality. An accurate risk stratification tool to predict short-term mortality in hospitalized cancer patients would benefit level of care decision at presentation. Red cell distribution width (RDW) has been reported as a predictor of mortality but application to cancer is uncertain. Elevated RDW has been associated with clinical decompensation and morality in patients harboring cardiovascular diseases, kidney injury, sepsis, cerebrovascular accidents and trauma. Our study aimed to determine whether RDW in cancer patients, independently or in combination with other putative severity markers, obtained within 24h of hospitalization, could predict progression to critical illness, defined as admissions to intensive care unit, discharge to hospice or death within 30 days. Our preliminary findings obtained from a community-teaching hospital, demonstrated that RDW was independently or in combination with other putative severity markers, associated with short-term cancer progression to composite outcome.
IRTCI: Item Response Theory for Categorical Imputation
Authors: Kline Adrienne , Luo Yuan
Published: July 2024

Most datasets suffer from partial or complete missing values, which has downstream limitations on the available models on which to test the data and on any statistical inferences that can be made from the data. Several imputation techniques have been designed to replace missing data with stand in values. The various approaches have implications for calculating clinical scores, model building and model testing. The work showcased here offers a novel means for categorical imputation based on item response theory (IRT) and compares it against several methodologies currently used in the machine learning field including k-nearest neighbors (kNN), multiple imputed chained equations (MICE) and Amazon Web Services (AWS) deep learning method, Datawig. Analyses comparing these techniques were performed on three different datasets that represented ordinal, nominal and binary categories. The data were modified so that they also varied on both the proportion of data missing and the systematization of the missing data. Two different assessments of performance were conducted: accuracy in reproducing the missing values, and predictive performance using the imputed data. Results demonstrated that the new method, Item Response Theory for Categorical Imputation (IRTCI), fared quite well compared to currently used methods, outperforming several of them in many conditions. Given the theoretical basis for the new approach, and the unique generation of probabilistic terms for determining category belonging for missing cells, IRTCI offers a viable alternative to current approaches.
Neurogliaform Cells Exhibit Laminar-specific Responses in the Visual Cortex and Modulate Behavioral State-dependent Cortical Activity
Authors: Fishell Gord , Huang Shuhan , Rizzo Daniella , Wu Sherry , Xu Qing , Zaine Leena , Alghamdi Norah , Stafford David , Daigle Tanya , Tasic Bosiljka , Zeng Hongkui , Ibrahim Leena
Published: July 2024

Neurogliaform cells are a distinct type of GABAergic cortical interneurons known for their ‘volume transmission’ output property. However, their activity and function within cortical circuits remain unclear. Here, we developed two genetic tools to target these neurons and examine their function in the primary visual cortex. We found that the spontaneous activity of neurogliaform cells positively correlated with locomotion. Silencing these neurons increased spontaneous activity during locomotion and impaired visual responses in L2/3 pyramidal neurons. Furthermore, the contrast-dependent visual response of neurogliaform cells varies with their laminar location and is constrained by their morphology and input connectivity. These findings demonstrate the importance of neurogliaform cells in regulating cortical behavioral state-dependent spontaneous activity and indicate that their functional engagement during visual stimuli is influenced by their laminar positioning and connectivity.
Limiting Factors for Ostomy Closure After Cytoreductive Surgery for Ovarian Cancer: a Retrospective Study.
Authors: Santana Beatriz Navarro , Martin Alicia , Arencibia Octavio , Babin Guillaume , González Daniel , Tomassetti Eudaldo , Piedimonte Sabrina , Guyon Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Purpose: To investigate the factors related to non-reversal of ostomy after cytoreductive surgery in ovarian cancer. In many women with ovarian cancer, transitory ostomies are performed to limit the consequences of anastomotic leak. Although intended to be temporary, a proportion of these ostomies might never be reversed
Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients with 2014 FIGO stage IIB-IVB ovarian cancer requiring a transitory ostomy during primary or secondary cytoreductive surgery at Institute Bergonie, France and University Hospital of Las Palmas, Spain between January 2012 and December 2022. Rate, timing (weeks) and postoperative complications of ostomy reversal were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify limiting factors for ostomy reversal.
Results: During the study period we reviewed data on 181 consecutive ovarian cancer patients with transitory ostomy creation. A total of 89 (49.2%) patients were not candidate for an ostomy reversal surgery because of disease progression (n=65), death (n=16), and patient´s refusal of surgery (n=8). So, 92 patients were candidate for a reversal surgery and therefore included in final analysis. In total, 57 (62%) patients had their ostomy reversed. Mean time from ostomy creation to ostomy closure was 47.7 weeks (±33.1). Hartmann’s procedure (leaving a rectal stump of 5-6cm) was identified as an independent predictive factor for non-reversal of ostomy [OR 6.42 (1.61-25.53), p=0.008]. Complications after ostomy reversal occurred in 32 patients (34.8%).
Conclusions:
Hartmann´s procedure is a limiting factor for ostomy reversal. We recommend avoiding Hartmann´s procedure during cytoreductive surgery and even after colorectal anastomotic leak.
SIN3A/MIR22HG/Beclin1 Axis Regulates Both Autophagy and Ferroptosis in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Yongyang , Yin Miao , Huang Xiaobi , Liu Chang , Zheng Yuexin , Zhou Honglian , Lei Xiao , Jiang Yuetong , Liang Yanfeng , Xu Xiaoqing , Niu Feiyu , yang Zhixiong , Su Wenmei
Published: July 2024

Through comprehensive analysis of long non-coding RNA expression profiles from RNA-Seq data, we identified that MIR22HG was significantly downregulated in lung adenocarcinoma and associated with poor patient prognosis. Subsequent animal studies confirmed its tumor-suppressive effects. We elucidated the mechanism by which MIR22HG exerts oncogenic suppression in lung adenocarcinoma, revealing that it mediates Beclin1 to activate signaling pathways for both autophagy and ferroptosis, thereby producing a combined oncogenic suppressive effect. Additionally, we demonstrated that SIN3A directly binds to MIR22HG, leading to its downregulation. This interaction inhibits both autophagy and ferroptosis via the MIR22HG network, contributing to a pro-oncogenic effect. These findings propose MIR22HG as a novel diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic marker for lung cancer. Furthermore, targeting the repressive effects of SIN3A on MIR22HG expression may enhance dual-targeted therapy approaches in clinical settings.
The Association between Hearing Loss and Periodontitis: Insights from the NHANES Database
Authors: Zou Zhijiang , Chen Kehan , Mei Ruoyu , Lou Yuhang , Liu Zhongzheng , Xu Bing , Song Jukun , He Wei
Published: July 2024

Background
Despite the prevalence of periodontitis and hearing impairment, research exploring their association is limited. This study aims to examine the potential relationship between periodontitis and hearing loss, using data from The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2012.
Methods
Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the years 2009–2012 were analyzed, focusing on participants who underwent both periodontal examinations and audiometric testing. The study included 1,642 participants after excluding those with incomplete data. Periodontitis was dichotomized as a binary variable of presence or absence. HL was both a categorical variable after grouping and an ungrouped continuous variable. Data were analyzed by multifactor logistic regression and subgroup analysis using EmpowerStats 3.0 software, and restricted cubic curves were plotted using R 4.3.2.
Results
The results showed that the prevalence of periodontitis was 60.97% and the hearing impaired population comprised 12.48% of the study population. There was a significant correlation between the severity of hearing loss and the presence of moderate to severe periodontitis. Participants with hearing loss greater than 40 dB showed a markedly higher likelihood of having periodontitis compared to those with normal hearing, even after adjusting for potential confounders such as age, smoking, diabetes, and socioeconomic status.
Conclusions
The findings suggest a notable association between hearing impairment and the risk of periodontitis. The study highlights the importance of considering oral health in patients with hearing loss and suggests further investigation into the shared inflammatory pathways that may contribute to both conditions.
Proteogenomics in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma reveals new biological fingerprint of cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Debette Stephanie , Caro Ilana , Western Daniel , Namba Shinichi , Sun Na , Kawaguchi Shuji , He Yunye , Fujita Masashi , Roshchupkin Gennady , D'Aoust Tim , Duperron Marie-Gabrielle , Sargurupremraj Murali , Tsuchida Ami , Koido Masaru , Ahmadi Marziehsadat , Yang Chengran , Timsina Jigyasha , Ibanez Laura , Matsuda Koichi , Suzuki Yutaka , Oda Yoshiya , Kanai Akinori , Jandaghi Pouria , Munter Hans Markus , Auld Dan , Astafeva Iana , Puerta Raquel , Rotter Jerome , Psaty Bruce , Bis Joshua , Longstreth Will , Couffinhal Thierry , Garcia-Gonzalez Pablo , Pytel Vanesa , Marquié Marta , Cano Amanda , Boada Mercè , Joliot Marc , Lathrop Mark , Grand Quentin Le , Launer Lenore , Wardlaw Joanna , Heiman Myriam , Ruiz Agustin , Matthews Paul , Seshadri Sudha , Fornage Myriam , Adams Hieab , Mishra Aniket , Trégouët David-Alexandre , Okada Yukinori , Kellis Manolis , De Jager Philip , Tzourio Christophe , Kamatani Yoichiro , Matsuda Fumihiko , Cruchaga Carlos
Published: July 2024

Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) is a leading cause of stroke and dementia with no specific mechanism-based treatment. We used Mendelian randomization to combine a unique cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma pQTL resource with the latest European-ancestry GWAS of MRI-markers of cSVD (white matter hyperintensities, perivascular spaces). We describe a new biological fingerprint of 49 protein-cSVD associations, predominantly in the CSF. We implemented a multipronged follow-up, across fluids, platforms, and ancestries (Europeans and East-Asian), including testing associations of direct plasma protein measurements with MRI-cSVD. We highlight 16 proteins robustly associated in both CSF and plasma, with 24/4 proteins identified in CSF/plasma only. cSVD-proteins were enriched in extracellular matrix and immune response pathways, and in genes enriched in microglia and specific microglial states (integration with single-nucleus RNA sequencing). Immune-related proteins were associated with MRI-cSVD already at age twenty. Half of cSVD-proteins were associated with stroke, dementia, or both, and seven cSVD-proteins are targets for known drugs (used for other indications in directions compatible with beneficial therapeutic effects. This first cSVD proteogenomic signature opens new avenues for biomarker and therapeutic developments.
WITHDRAWN: Epitope-based Vaccine Design for California Encephalitis Virus(Cev) : a Computational Study Targeting Membrane Glycoproteins
Authors: Surendra Grandhi , Nelluri Kanaka Durga Devi , Male* CH K V L S N Anjana , Kamepalli Sahithi , Sharma Ashish Kumar , Nathiya Deepak , Singh Ravindra Pal , Alaparthi Bhavana , Kommoju Minakshi
Published: July 2024

California encephalitis is an uncommon viral brain infection that is caused by the California encephalitis virus (CEV).With encephalitis, the majority of patients experience full recovery with a mortality rate of less than 1%. A 20% or higher percentage of patients experience recurring seizures or behavioural issues. There is currently no vaccine or prescribed medication for California encephalitis, an infectious disease that is on the rise. Therefore, the development of a novel vaccination against CEV is imperative. The current study develops a vaccine based on many epitopes using immunoinformatic methods. B and T cell epitopes were predicted using the CEV membrane glycoprotein polyprotein as a target protein. The predicted T- and B-cell epitopes were then examined for conservancy, toxicity, allergenicity, and immunogenicity. HLA alleles were paired with screened epitopes to make sure they interacted to trigger an immune response. The best selected epitopes were used to create the vaccine. Studying the vaccine's physicochemical qualities and other features revealed its immunogenicity, stability, and safety. Afterwards, two Toll-like receptor-8 (TLR-8) was docked with the vaccination, and molecular dynamic simulations were examined. To ensure that the vaccine's codons would express themselves efficiently in a plasmid vector for in silico cloning tests, more codon adaptation of the vaccine sequence was carried out. It is predicted that the vaccine developed for this study will demonstrate its efficacy in controlling and preventing CEV .To make sure it's safe and effective, more in vivo and in vitro research needs to be done.
Early prediction of the microvascular invasion (MVI) occurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by 18 F-FDG PET/CT and laboratory data
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Chen Xue , Huang Huan , Jia Ningyang
Published: July 2024

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most deadly malignant tumors in China. Microvascular invasion (MVI) of HCC often indicates poor prognosis and metastasis. 18F-FDG PET-CT is a new imaging method commonly used to screen tumor occurrence and evaluate tumor stage.
Purpose: The study attempted to predict the occurrence of MVI in HCC early through 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging findings and laboratory data.
Patients and methods: A total of 113 patients who accord with the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups based on postoperative pathological: MVI-positive group and MVI-negative group. We retrospectively analyzed the imaging findings and laboratory data of 113 patients. Imaging findings included tumor size, tumor maximum standard uptake value (SUVmaxT), normal liver maximum standard uptake value (SUVmaxL). calculate the ratio of SUVmaxT and SUVmaxL (SUVmaxT/L) and SUVmaxT/L>2 was defined as an active tumor metabolism. The tumor size was indicated by the maximum diameter of the tumor, with a diameter more than 5cm was defined as a mass lesion. laboratory data included alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) value and HBeAg level. AFP>20ug/L was defined as AFP high level. HBeAg>0.03NCU/mL was defined as HB-positive.
Result: SUVmaxT/L (p=0.003), AFP level (P=0.008) and tumor size (P=0.015) were statistically different between the two groups. Active tumor metabolism, mass lesion and AFP high level tend to be MVI positive. The consequences of binary logistic regression analysis verified active tumor metabolism (OR=4.124, 95%CI, 1.566-10.861, p=0.004) and high AFP level (OR=2.702, 95%CI, 1.214-6.021, p=0.015) were independent risk factors for MVI. The sensitivity of the combination of these two independent risk factors to predict HCC with MVI is 56.9% (29/51), the specificity is 83.9% (52/62) and the accuracy is 71.7% (81/113).
Conclusion: active tumor metabolism and high AFP level can predict the occurrence of MVI of HCC.
Placental chorionic plate DNA methylation patterns correlate with DNA methylation at SOCS3 in newborn human peripheral blood cells
Authors: Kashima Kohei , Kawai Tomoko , Ikemura Masako , Kamura Hiromi , Aoto Saki , Sato Taisuke , Motomura Kenichiro , Iriyama Takayuki , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Kondou Utako , Hyodo Hironobu , Okamura Kohji , Takahashi Naoto , Hata Kenichiro
Published: July 2024

Background
Regulation of placental function is fundamental for fetal development. Various in utero environments, including pregnancy complications, interfere with changes in DNA methylation and influence placental functions and child development following birth. However, data on the association between genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in the placenta and changes in DNA methylation in the postnatal peripheral blood cells of the same individuals remain limited. Herein, we aimed to reveal the association between epigenetic changes in fetal appendages at birth and longitudinal epigenetic changes in the tissues of neonates.
Methods
Using a DNA methylation array, we examined the epigenetics of placental chorionic plates from 136 participants who were born between 22 and 42 weeks of gestation. We then examined DNA methylation levels of 62 pairs of umbilical cord blood and postnatal peripheral blood cells to investigate their association with the epigenetics of chorionic plates in identical newborns.
Results
Unsupervised classification of chorionic plates by the most variable DNA methylation levels between samples revealed contrasting methylation patterns in the genes involved in blood vessel formation. The epigenetic classification of the chorionic plate was significantly associated with intrauterine inflammation, neonatal respiratory diseases, and DNA methylation levels of cg18181703 within the suppressor of the cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) gene in neonatal peripheral blood cells. A significant association between DNA methylation levels at cg18181703 in cord blood and the classification were nullified when gestational age at birth was considered as a covariate. Meanwhile, longitudinal methylation levels at cg18181703 were confirmed in the peripheral blood cells of neonates of specific groups classified by chorionic plate epigenetics, independent of gestational age.
Conclusions
DNA methylation patterns in chorionic plates during intrauterine inflammation were associated with DNA methylation levels of cg18181703 in neonates. Methylation of cg1818170 is known to have a causal effect on child height. Our study suggests that changes in chorionic plate function with DNA methylation changes may program infant growth via the DNA methylation levels of cg18181703 in blood cells.
Sex Differences in Mortality among Patients with Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Wang Wang , Xia Xi , Lu Yuewen , Zhang Xinxin , Shi Xiaolei , Jia Xiuzhi , Tang Ruihan , Chen Wei
Published: July 2024

Objective: To evaluate the prognostic importance of sex in lupus nephritis (LN).
Methods: A retrospective cohort of 921 biopsy-confirmed LN patients, diagnosed between 1996 and 2018, was analyzed. Demographics, clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, and renal pathology were assessed. The primary outcome was mortality, and the secondary outcomes included doubling of serum creatinine and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Sex-associated risks were evaluated using Cox regression models.
Results: Among the 921 patients, 157 (17%) were male and 764 (83%) were female. Male patients exhibited more aggressive features: higher blood pressure, earlier disease onset, and elevated levels of serum creatinine (Scr), uric acid, blood urea nitrogen. Intriguingly, male patients also displayed more severe histopathological alterations, such as more karyorrhexis, cellular crescents/cellular fibrous crescents formations and tubular atrophy, even when overall renal pathology was comparable between sexes. During a median follow-up of 112 months, mortality was registered in 141 patients (15.3%). Mortality rates were conspicuously higher in males (24.2% males versus 13.4% females, P = 0.0029). Secondary outcomes did not show significant sex differences. Cox regression analysis highlighted male, age on renal biopsy, Scr, and Chronicity Index (CI) as independent risk factors for survival in LN patients. Notably, infections emerged as the leading cause of mortality among LN patients, with a significant higher rate in male patients.
Conclusion: In our cohort with LN, there was a higher rate of all-cause mortality and proportion of infection-related death in male. Recognizing and further exploring these sex disparities is crucial for optimized LN patient care.
Systematic Pan-Cancer Analysis Showed that P2RY13 was Associated with Immune Microenvironment and Prognosis
Authors: Li Zaishan , Meng Zhenzhen
Published: July 2024

P2RY13, a purinergic receptor belonging to the P2Y family of G-protein-coupled receptors, has garnered increasing attention for its potential involvement in cancer biology. This review explores the multifaceted role of P2RY13 in cancer development and progression, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of its implications for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. Utilizing data mining techniques and bioinformatics analysis on publicly available datasets, we investigated the differential expression of P2RY13 across various cancer types and its correlation with clinical features, survival outcomes, tumor immune microenvironment, and molecular characteristics. Our analysis revealed significant dysregulation of P2RY13 expression in tumors, with distinct associations with malignant features and patient prognosis. Notably, P2RY13 expression was found to correlate with immune-related biomarkers and tumor stemness, highlighting its potential role in modulating tumor immunity and heterogeneity. Furthermore, our study identified correlations between P2RY13 expression and immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, and other immune regulatory genes, underscoring its importance in tumor immune modulation. Despite the insights gained, further mechanistic studies are warranted to elucidate the precise role of P2RY13 in cancer biology and to explore its therapeutic potential as a target for cancer treatment.
Evaluation of NSPRI Parabolic Shaped Solar Dryer (PSSD) for Drying of Tomatoes Under Semi-arid Climate Zone
Authors: Joel Jude , Alkali Abba Kaka , Ibrahim Bala , Ahmmad Adamu Abubakar , Babba Fatima Jamu , Dayo Oshadumo
Published: July 2024

This study evaluated the performance of a Parabolic Shaped Solar Dryer (PSSD) developed at Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute Kano (NSPRI) and compared it with an Open Sun Drying (OSD) - Ambient. The evaluation was carried out using Tomatoes (Eka). After sorting and washing the fresh tomatoes were sliced into 15 mm thickness and then spread on trays in PSSD and OSD. A thermo-hygrometer was used to record daily temperature and relative humidity. The dried Tomatoes' average drying temperature and relative humidity were 68.2 oC and 50.5% for PSSD, 47.5 oC, and 66.6% for OSD. The average drying rate was 31.6 kg/day for PSSD and 19.7 kg/day for OSD. The result showed that PSSD recorded the highest temperature variation and drying for drying of Tomatoes when compared to OSD. Initial moisture of 89.12% was reduced to a final moisture content of 14.5% for PSSD and 17.8% for OSD after six days of drying. Physiochemical and functional properties of the dehydrated tomato were also carried out. The bacteria count was lower in PSSD (5.8 x 103 Cfu/ml) compared to OSD (7.6 x 103 Cfu/ml). However, no fungal growth was observed in OSD where 4.1 x 103 Cfu/ml was recorded in PSSD.
H2S Signal Enhanced the hydrolysis of Seed Storage Globulins and Freezing Tolerance of Hydrated Brassica ( Brassica oleracea ) seeds
Authors: Han Yingying , Wang Jie , Li Liangbo , Song Danping , Li Weijie , Liu Baolin
Published: July 2024

Moisture content is the key factor that affects the freezing preservation of seeds. Previous studies have indicated that hydrolysis of seed storage globulins can enhance the freezing tolerance of hydrated seeds. Seed globulins are constituted by two subunits connected via disulfide bonds(-S-S-). As a donor for H2S, NaHS can act as a nucleophile to attack the disulfide bond of proteins and promote S-persulfidation. In this study, hydrated brassica (Brassica oleracea) seeds were treated with NaHS (5 mM) to confirm the role of the reduction the disulfide bonds of seed globulins on the freezing tolerance of hydrated seeds. The results indicated that NaHS treatment increased seed viability after slow cooling (NaHS vs. control: 55% vs. 38.3%) (P<0.05). Differential scanning calorimetry confirmed that supercooling occurred in embryos after NaHS treatment. NaHS treatment significantly increased the content of sulfhydryl groups in seed storage globulin, suggesting that NaHS promoted the reduction of disulfide bonds during slow cooling. Two-dimensional electrophoresis showed that NaHS promoted the depolymerization of seed storage globulins and accumulation of small polypeptides under slow cooling treatment. NaHS treatment also enhanced the levels of ascorbate and glutathione, which together make up an important antioxidant defense system against oxidative damage.
A survey of the frequency of polycystic ovary morphology in infertile patients with uterine abnormalities: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Irani Shohreh , Najafi Atiyeh , Vesali Samira , Mashayekhi Mehri , Niknejad Fatemeh , Ahmadi Firoozeh
Published: July 2024

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Several studies have shown an association between PCOS and Mullerian anomalies. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of polycystic ovary morphology (PCOM) in infertile patients with uterine anomalies (septate and arcuate uterine) who attended the Royan Research Institute in Tehran (Iran) between January 2021 and December 2022. The current cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 884 infertile women who were referred to our Institute for 3D-hysterosonography. These women were divided into two groups: the first group consisted of 127 infertile women with uterine anomalies, while the second group included 757 infertile women without uterine anomalies. Information about the participants was extracted from their medical records at the Royan Research Institute. This study demonstrated that the frequency of PCOM in patients with uterine anomalies was 40.9% (52 women) and in those without such anomalies, it was 14/7% (111 women) (p = 0.0001). According to the study's findings, the prevalence of polycystic ovary morphology in women who have uterine anomalies is greater than that in women without these anomalies.
Study of the impact of operating parameters and the addition of fat on the physicochemical and texture properties of extruded snacks
Authors: Jacquet Nicolas , Plompteux Armande , Brostaux Yves , Malumba Paul , Danthine Sabine , Blecker Christophe
Published: July 2024

The present study focused on modelling and studying the effect of operating parameters and oil content of extrusion blends on the physicochemical and textural properties of snacks composed mainly of corn flour. A Box-Behnken response surface methodology design with three factors with three modalities was carried out. The effects of barrel temperature, extrusion screw speed and oil quantity added to the blends were investigated. This design made it possible to generate powerful models for several variables, allowing to predict snacks properties according to production conditions and to study in a efficient way the impact of production conditions on snacks properties. Results suggest a dominant effect of oil content which spoils the properties, while temperature and screw speed improve them. Strong correlations between some variables and a concordance of the observations were also highlighted. At the end, established models allowed to produce snacks with satisfactory properties by modulating the extrusion parameters.
Design of Resonant Cavity-Enhanced InAs/GaSb Superlattice LWIR Photodetector
Authors: Gong Ruixin , Zhu Lianqing , Feng Qingsong , Liu Zhiying
Published: July 2024

Type-II superlattices (T2SLs) have recently emerged as a focal point in long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) detection, showcasing remarkable potential across various applications. In this work, we have revealed a theoretical investigation into the band structure and optical properties of 14/7 ML InAs/GaSb SLs, employing density functional theory (DFT). Our findings show that the energy gap of these SLs is determined to be 0.111 eV through energy band structure analysis by the HSE06 method. Moreover, we have designed a resonant cavity-enhanced "Φ" structure for the 14/7 ML InAs/GaSb SLs infrared detector. This innovative design markedly enhances absorption efficiency, increasing it from 16.48% to an impressive 76.35% at the 11.2 µm wavelength. Further analysis includes a detailed examination of the electric field distribution within this structure and a comprehensive examination of the enhanced plasmonic resonator's perfect absorption phenomenon. The results from these analyses underscore the exceptional absorption capabilities of our resonant cavity-enhanced infrared detector, indicating its potential for significant applications in LWIR SLs focal plane.
Specific features of separations in fracture after CTOD tests of low-carbon microalloyed offshore steel S460MLO
Authors: Goli-Oglu Eugene , Palombo Marco , Filatov Andrei
Published: July 2024

Using the results of testing industrial batches of 23 mm steel heavy plates after thermomechanical rolling and subsequent post-weld heat treatment, the patterns of fatigue cracks formation in the fracture specimens during CTOD (Crack Tip Opening Displacement) testing for fracture toughness are investigated. Visual, microstructural, and fractographic studies of the nature of fracture formation and the surface of the secondary separations have been conducted. The probable causes of the manifestation of the potential «pop-in» effect on the load-displacement diagrams of the notch opening displacement are described, as well as its potentially negative impact on the interpretation of test results
Combining surface drifters and high resolution global simulations enables the mapping of internal tide surface energy
Authors: Caspar-Cohen Zoé , Ponte Aurélien , Lahaye Noé , Zaron Edward D. , Arbic Brian K. , Yu Xiaolong , LeGentil Sylvie , Menemenlis Dimitris
Published: July 2024

By dissipating energy and generating mixing, internal tides (ITs) play a major role in the climatological evolution of the ocean. Our understanding of this class of ocean variability is however hindered by the rarity of observations capable of capturing ITs with global coverage. The data provided by the Global Drifter Program (GDP) offer high temporal resolution and quasi-global coverage, thus bringing promising perspectives. However, due to their inherent drifting nature, these instruments provide a distorted view of the IT signal. By theoretically rationalizing this distortion and leveraging a massive synthetic drifter numerical simulation, we are able to map semi-diurnal IT energy levels from GDP data and compare it to three datasets (two numerical simulations, and a satellite altimetry IT atlas). We find that all numerical simulations exhibit biases. Nonetheless, the simulation that benefited from dedicated attention towards ITs representation performs best. This supports renewed efforts in the concurrent numerical modeling of ITs / ocean circulation. The substantial deficit of energy in the IT atlas highlights the inability for altimetric estimates to measure incoherent and finer scale ITs and strongly supports the need to isolate ITs signature in the data collected by the new wide-swath altimetry mission SWOT.
Multivalent LecA/LecB Inhibitors based on the Co-assemblies of Perylene Monoimide-carbohydrate Conjugates for Antibiotic-free Antibacterial and Wound Healing
Authors: Wang Ke-Rang , Yang Jian-Xing , Li Hai-Qing , Yin Fangqian , Yin Wen-Juan
Published: July 2024

Pathogenic infection is becoming a global health threat to human health. Especially for the treatment of P. aeruginosa remains particularly challenging. Fortunately, it is interestingly found that the LecA and LecB lectins of P. aeruginosa played crucial roles in bacterial adhesion, biofilm formation, virulence, and host cell invasion. Herein, a co-assemble strategy to prepare antibiotic-free antibacterial and antibiofilm agents by using two kinds of perylene-carbohydrate conjugates (PMI-3Gal and PMI-3Fuc) with synergistic targeting for two lectins of P. aeruginosa LecA and LecB was developed. Due to the strong multivalent carbohydrate-lectin interactions both for LecA and LecB lectins, the co-assembly PMI-3Gal@PMI-3Fuc showed selective adhesion effects, inhibition activity of biofilm formation and potent photothermal antibacterial activities for P. aeruginosa and a clinical-isolated P. aeruginosa strain, and showed the acceleration effect for the wound healing in mice. This result opens a supramolecular principle for antibiotic-free antibacterial and antibiofilm effects based on multivalent glycoconjugates.
Imaging semiconductor-to-metal transition and topological flat bands of twisted bilayer MoTe2
Authors: Wang Shiyong , Liu Yufeng , Gu Yu , Bao Ting , Mao Ning , Li Can , Jiang Shudan , Liu Liang , Guan Dandan , Li Yaoyi , Zheng Hao , Liu Canhua , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Duan Wenhui , Jia Jinfeng , Liu Xiaoxue , Zhang Yang , Li Tingxin
Published: July 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) moiré materials have emerged as a highly tunable platform for investigating novel quantum states of matter arising from strong electronic correlations and nontrivial band topology1-4. Recently, topological flat bands formed in 2D semiconducting moiré superlattices have attracted great interests5-32. In particular, a series of topological quantum phases, including the long-sought fractional quantum anomalous Hall (FQAH) effect, have recently been experimentally observed14-22 in twisted bilayer MoTe2 (tMoTe2). However, the microscopic information of tMoTe2 moiré superlattice and its electronic structure is still lacking. Here, we present scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS) studies of the tMoTe2 moiré superlattice, with twist angles ranging from about 2.3° to 2.8°. We developed a contact-STM mode to apply pressure on tMoTe2 and observed a phase transition from band insulator to metal of tMoTe2 under pressure at the charge neutrality point. STM imaging reveals a pronounced in-plane lattice reconstruction with periodic strain redistribution in the tMoTe2, which serves as gauge fields for generating topological moiré bands. Importantly, the electronic states of the low-energy moiré flat bands primarily concentrate at the XM and MX regions as revealed by STS imaging. Such spatial distributions are nicely reproduced by our first principal calculations with a large-scale basis, suggesting the low-energy moiré flat bands are formed through the hybridization of K valley bands of the top layer and K’ valley bands of the bottom layer. Overall, our findings provide compelling real-space evidence of electronic structure under pressure and topological flat bands of tMoTe2, paving the way for further STM/STS investigations of correlated topological states within the topological flat band in gate-tunable tMoTe2 devices.
Retrieval-Augmented Generation in Large Language Models through Selective Augmentation
Authors: Quintela Joao , Sapateiro Marquinhos
Published: July 2024

The increasing complexity and demands of natural language processing tasks have driven the need for more advanced and contextually aware language models. The integration of selective augmentation within Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) frameworks represents a significant advancement, enhancing the relevance and accuracy of generated responses by dynamically incorporating pertinent information during inference. This research carefully developed and implemented a selective augmentation algorithm tailored to GPT-Neo, demonstrating substantial improvements in performance metrics such as BLEU, ROUGE, and F1 scores. Data preprocessing and model fine-tuning were conducted rigorously, ensuring a robust foundation for the selective augmentation mechanism. Experimental results confirmed that the enhanced RAG model not only provided more accurate and contextually relevant responses but also exhibited superior coherence compared to the baseline model. The implications of these findings are profound, suggesting that selective augmentation can significantly elevate the capabilities of language models, making them more reliable and effective for a wide range of applications. This study contributes valuable insights into the optimization of augmentation processes, paving the way for future advancements in natural language processing technologies.
Well-being of Older Adults in Continuing Education: Age and Gender Exploration
Authors: Rosser Pablo , Soler  Seila
Published: July 2024

This pilot study, a precursor to more in-depth research, examines the relationship between age, gender, and well-being in older adults participating in educational programs. Employing a quantitative design, descriptive analyses, T-Tests, ANOVA, and correlations were used to assess participants' responses. The results highlight an imbalanced age and gender distribution, with a predominance of individuals aged 66–75 and a higher proportion of women. The analyses reveal significant differences in well-being based on gender and age. Correlations indicate that as age increases, so does satisfaction with past and future life, although interest in new challenging experiences decreases. This study underscores the importance of considering demographic differences when designing and implementing educational programs for older adults, emphasizing the need for specific adaptations to maximize well-being and participation.
Estimating extreme values drought risk through classical and Bayesian paradigm
Authors: Ahmad Touqeer , Sabir Safoorah , Arshad Irshad Ahmad , Albalawi Olayan
Published: July 2024

Drought poses significant challenges to both the environment and the economy, necessitating proactive mitigation strategies. This study introduces both classical and Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) extreme value probabilistic models for quantifying drought risk. The models utilize the generalized extreme value distribution to characterize the distribution of standardized precipitation index and non-stationary standardized precipitation index variables. Drought risk is probabilistically assessed across five regions in Baluchistan (a drought-prone area of Pakistan) over two 20-year periods per region. The study represents an innovative approach in probabilistic quantification models, demonstrating slight performance improvement with the Bayesian MCMC paradigm, as evaluated by the continuously ranked probability scoring. Moreover, the application of the presented methodology can be extended to other climatic zones using Bayesian MCMC with informative priors constructed from historical records of the neighboring regions.
Unexpectedly Disabling Headache Revealing Moyamoya Disease in a Child in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.
Authors: Kouassi Kouamé Léonard , Broh N’Guessan Yves Constant , Yeo Nawa Samuel , Dihissou Monsouratou Ayan Niyi
Published: July 2024

Introduction
Moyamoya disease is a chronic cerebral vasculopathy of unknown origin. It is rarely described in Africa, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Stroke is the major clinical manifestation. Headache, on the other hand, is a rare presenting symptom, especially when it is recent and disabling. Here, we report a case of moyamoya disease in a child in sub-Saharan Africa that was unexpectedly diagnosed by recent disabling headaches.
Case presentation
A 9-year-old male child with a two-week history of disabling headaches was admitted to the neurology department. These headaches were associated with vomiting, without fever, seizures or loss of consciousness, and without signs of localization. The cranioencephalic CT scan performed on the day of admission was normal. Twenty-four hours later, a left hemicorporeal motor deficit and visual disturbances appeared. Cerebral MRI and TOF angio-MRI revealed bilateral infarcts in the territories of the right middle cerebral artery and posterior cerebral arteries, with stenosis of both ends of the distal internal carotid arteries, giving a "smoke cloud" appearance to the cerebral vessels, suggestive of moya moya disease. The results of secondary etiology studies were unremarkable.
Conclusions
This case report alerts practitioners to an unusual initial clinical presentation of moyamoya disease in children and prompts them to prescribe cerebral MRI coupled with cerebral angio-MRI in the presence of an inaugural, disabling headache. This case also adds to the sub-Saharan literature on this disease.
Psychometric properties of the Arabic Anti-Mattering Scale in a non-clinical sample of Arabic-speaking adolescents.
Authors: Cherri Sarah , Malaeb Diana , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Hallit Souheil , Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Obeid Sahar
Published: July 2024

Background: The urge to be valued and to value others is known as mattering, and it is essential to children, adolescents, and college students' development of psychological health and wellbeing. Even with its significance, a lot of teenagers believe they are insignificant to their community. This study's objective was to examine, among a sample of adolescents from Lebanon, the psychometric properties of the Anti-Mattering Scale translated into Arabic.
Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study was gathered using a link in a Google Form. during November 2023. Using a snowball sampling technique, participants ranged in age from 13 to 18 and were Lebanese citizens.
Results: Seven hundred ninety-three adolescents took part in this study; the mean age was 16.08 ± 1.74 years. and 62.4% females. According to CFA, the AMS scale's one-factor model fit was satisfactory: RMSEA = .097 (90% CI .072, .125), SRMR = .027, CFI = .979, TLI = .957. For the entire sample, the composite reliability of scores was deemed sufficient (ω =.87 / α =.87). This model had a borderline convergent validity, as AVE = .57. In terms of anti-mattering scores, there was no discernible difference between the genders (10.73 ± 3.52 vs 11.14 ± 3.64; t(791) = -1.53; p = .126). Furthermore, there was a notable correlation between higher psychological distress and higher anti-mattering scores (r = .53; p < .001) and lower wellbeing (r = -.37; p < .001).
Conclusion: The Anti-Mattering Scale translated into Arabic appears to be a valid self-assessment measure to capture the presence of anti-mattering feeling among adolescents. It is anticipated that the Arabic Anti-Mattering Scale will be advantageous for healthcare professionals and researchers working with Arabic-speaking people around the world.
Over 20% external quantum efficiency in near-infrared quantum dot light-emitting diodes by using photo-crosslinked hole-transport layers
Authors: Li Binghan , Wang Yu , Zhang Jiancheng , Lin Qingli , Sun Ruijia , Shen Huaibin , Ji Botao
Published: July 2024

Visible quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QD-LEDs) have satisfied the requirements for commercial displays. However, the performance of near-infrared (NIR) QD-LEDs lags considerably behind, due to the comparatively inferior quality of NIR QDs and the current limitations on device architecture suitable for NIR electroluminescence. Here, we present an efficient and reproducable strategy using inorganic fluoride as a key additive to kinetically homogenize shell growth of ZnSe on various core QD facets, producing heavy-metal-free, highly regular InAs/InP/ZnSe/ZnS QDs with near 100% quantum yields. Moreover, we developed an approach of in-situ photo-crosslinking blended hole-transport materials for accurate modulation of energy levels of hole-transport layers (HTLs). The crosslinked HTLs substantially enhance hole transfer to the emitting layer for balanced carrier dynamics in QD-LEDs. The resulting NIR QD-LEDs exhibit a peak external quantum efficiency of 20.5%, a high radiance of 581.4 W sr−1 m−2 and an ultralong half-lifetime of 550 h at 50 W sr−1 m−2, making the device the best-performing solution-processed NIR QD-LEDs to date. This study represents a significant step towards practical application of NIR QD-LEDs.